Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

Unleashed

Vol. 7 Issue 3 - Early Summer 2015

Delmarva

Complimentary

“Mason”

Canine ID Seawater Concerns

Help! I’m Lost in the Pet Food Aisle!

Jerky Treats, Whats Happening

Hurricane Preparedness

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Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

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Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

Fish Tales, Because I Can Go Too!

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Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

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contents Vol. 7 Issue 3 Early Summer 2015

5 Bark of the Town 6 Canine ID 10 Help! I’m Lost in the Pet Food Isle!

14 The Big Bang Delmarva Unleashed Fireworks Fear Publisher 16 MRSA Sandy Phillips 18 To Shave or Not Editor to Shave LouAnn Davis 20 Hurricane Preparedness Creative Farin Phillips 24 Canine Inspiration creative@grandlivingmag.com 26 Canine CPR Contributing Writers 28 Seawater Concerns Polly Elliott Brandon Phillips 32 Jerky Treats John Maniatty, V.M.D. Jaclyn Wolinski, D.M.V. 36 How to Treat Your Dog? 38 Socials Advertising Info: (410)726-7334 On the Cover:

“Mason” proudly owned by Justin & Melissa Clemens of Odyssea Watersports, OC. Delmarva Unleashed is published six times a year; Winter, Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, and Holiday. It is circulated throughout Maryland’s Lower Shore, Mid Shore and onto Virginia’s Eastern Shore. The magazine can also be found throughout Delaware and is published by Grand Living Magazine, LLC. Delmarva Unleashed is protected under trademark registration. No portion in whole or part may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Copyright 2015©, Grand Living Magazine, LLC. All rights reserved. Content in Delmarva Unleashed is intended to provide information only and is in no way meant to treat or diagnose. Always consult with a specialty professional to address your own personal needs. The company makes every effort to ensure that all information presented is correct, however, we do not make any representations or warranties as to the accuracy of the information, and reliance on information provided, is solely at your own risk.

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Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

Bark of the Town Reprinted by request...

Holistic Flea & Tick Spray “Sleeps with Dogs” Statistics show that 83% of American households have at least one dog.

Of those, 79% percent of the pet parents allow their dogs to sleep in the same bed with them. According to Center for Disease Control (CDC), it is not a healthy habit for either humans or canines, as it can allow for the easy transmission of disease. The next question should be what percentage of pet parents will actually heed the warning? We think the number will be very low, as even sick humans will seek comfort from their furry friends, while cuddling in bed.

Looking for an alternative to “spoton” treatments? Try this holistic preparation. Be sure to spray your dog daily for best results.

2 lemons sliced 1/2 cup of dried Lavender (We found a great selection of modestly priced lavender on Amazon.)

2 cups boiling water Combine all ingredients and let steep for at least 8 hours before use. Strain through a paper towel or cheese cloth and transfer to a spray bottle. Keep refrigerated.

So you don’t forget, consider spraying your dog at his morning meal.

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Canine ID

by Brandon Phillips

T

DU Dog Marla 6

Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

he “standard” pet identification (ID) is made from plastic or metal and dangles off your pet’s collar or harness. Tags are engraved a current phone number and your pet’s name. If space permits, it’s important to include things like “Needs Meds” or “Reward for Return.” The benefits of this type of tag are the cost and the fact that a “Good Samaritan,” who finds your pet, can call you immediately. You might also consider having a backup phone number engraved, in case you can’t be immediately reached. However, the tags are very customizable and come in every conceivable shape, size and color. The negative with standard ID tags, is that the engraving can wear off over time, making the tag impossible to read. You also need to be sure your dog is wearing a collar/harness, with the tag, at all times.

Digital ID tags are now offered by a growing number of companies. First, you can create an account on a website and add a profile for your pet, then purchase a digital ID tag or collar on the site which will contain a unique QR code for your individual dog.

When you receive the tag or collar, log

back into the site and link it to your pet’s profile. If your pet goes missing and someone finds him, the Good Samaritan has a few options to help the dog get back home; 1) scan the QR code on the tag with a Smartphone, 2) type in the tag’s web address and enter the tag number, 3) call the number listed on the website to retrieve your info from the ID on the tag. Today, you can often text the number for a data look-up. Typically, membership in the database is free, you will need to be sure both your information and your dog’s info are kept current. The company PetHub also offers a GPS map showing where your pet’s tag was scanned, and a database that allows you to broadcast your pet’s profile to shelters and local businesses near the location your pet was last seen.

You can also find USB flash drives which attach to your pet’s collar or harness like a standard ID tag. They come in cute shapes and a wide variety of colors. These can potentially provide added value because they store complete care information which will be immediately available to, veterinarians, boarding kennels, or the person who finds the pet. While these are typically very inexpensive, I can’t image why you would need 32MB of data storage for even the most complicated care routine, so they may be a bit overpriced. For dogs that live near water, or those that just can’t seem to resist a ditch full of water, this is probably not your best choice in ID. USB devices that have been submerged in water are far from reliable.

GPS trackers are typically designed for owners who want to monitor their dog’s movements. While these devices

don’t directly offer ID for your dog, they will alert you if your dog leaves established virtual boundaries. Alerts can be sent directly to your cell phone, and if your dog is just a few houses away, you can quickly retrieve him.

If your dog is a professional escape artist, this may offer a layer of confidence locating his where-abouts fairly easily.

GPS systems come with a hefty price tag, and are typically comprised of high tech collars with receivers attached. Again, check into water resistance and response relative to terrain. You will also want to know the typical battery life, and set up a regular schedule to check that the collar is active when your dog is out and about.

There are often annual or monthly fees associated with canine GPS systems.

Garmin offers one having an initial cost of $200 and an annual fee of $50.

Verizon’s Pet Tracker has an MSRP of $100 and a monthly fee of $7.95.

Again for the right dog, this can offer a layer of comfort, but your dog still needs a microchip and a hang tag of some sort. The down side would be that these collars can be bulky and are probably not well suited for small or toy dogs.

Pet microchips contain an electromagnetic transponder with a unique code that must be registered with a recovery program, such as HomeAgain. A scanner is needed to locate and read the code on the chip, which most veterinary offices and shelters have.

The microchip, which is the size of a grain of rice, is injected under your pet’s skin, in the neck area, between the shoulders. The popularity of microchips has increased tremendously Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

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in recent years, and many shelters implant chips in all adopted pets before the animal leaves the facility. One of the main benefits of microchipping is that your pet can’t lose his ID. Chips have become a standard method of identifying strays. Any lost animal brought to a veterinary clinic or animal shelter is automatically scanned, so your information must be kept up to date for your dog to have the best odds of returning home. Keep in mind microchips are not GPS systems and they do not emit any signal; they simply lay dormant in your dog until they are activated by a scanner.

Tattooing is a unique code or information typically on the inner ear flap, the belly or inner leg of a fully grown dog. Ideally, ID tattoos should be done while an animal is under anesthesia for another procedure. If your pet is very furry, tattooing is not a preferred option as it will be difficult for a Good Samaritan to see. You can always consider the ear flap as an option, but many people don’t like this placement for aesthetic reasons. Also, thieves have been known to remove the part of the ear that shows the tattoo, and you certainly don’t want to subject your dog to that, should they fall into the wrong hands. You can increase the likelihood of your tattooed pet being returned by registering the number with the AKC, the National Dog Registry, or Tattoo-a-Pet. Any number can be registered with the National Dog Registry, and all tattooed animals can be enrolled in the AKC’s Companion Animal Recovery System regardless of species, age, size or number used.

Tattooing is also a controversial topic for many. Some people see it as animal 8

Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

cruelty, while others think the ink may have adverse effects. Like all ID options, there are pros and cons.

In short your dog needs an ID, and with the wealth of options available, surely there is one to fit your budget and style. No matter the option you choose, mark your calendar to review the information at least annually, perhaps on your dog’s birthday. Also consider having more than one type of ID for your dog.

The most popular combo today is a microchip and a collar tag. Microchip clinics are a very affordable option, and you can easily pick up a plastic or metal tag at your local pet store, groomer, or from your veterinarian.

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Help! I Am Lost in the Pet Food Aisle!

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here are so many food choices in pet food today and it’s tough to decide which is best. These are tough questions, and the answer is not straightforward. What does well for your friend’s pet may not do well for yours.

When selecting a food, some simple questions to ask are: Is it nutritionally balanced?

Is it for my pet’s age and size?

Does my dog/cat find it palatable?

Do they tolerate it well?

How easy is it to purchase?

How do you know if a food is nutritionally balanced? When looking at the label search for an “AAFCO” statement. AAFCO stands for, Association of American Feed Control Officials. This volunteer group of local, state, and federal agencies studies animal nutrition and sets guidelines for daily nutritional requirements. A lack of an AAFCO statement may mean the 10

Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

food is nutritionally deficient or has not been analyzed. Either way, you should avoid this particular food as the main part of your pet’s diet. If the AAFCO statement is in place it will say this food is “formulated to meet AAFCO standards,” or that it has undergone a feeding trial to substantiate that it provides complete and balanced nutrition. Diets that are indicated for “all life stages” are formulated for the group of pets which has the highest overall nutritional requirements – puppies and kittens. While an older pet can eat these diets, they may be getting more supplements and calories than they actually need, which in turn, can lead to obesity or even tax the organs, ultimately decreasing overall health.

You will also find dog foods are listed for small, medium, or large breed dogs. Studies have shown large breed dogs need different protein levels and different calcium supplementation

by John Maniatty, V.M.D.

than small and medium dogs. For the large dogs, the improper ratios can lead to bone and joint problems later in life.

I prefer feeding trials over formulation because that means they have fed the food to pets and followed the animals for a 26 week period. The pet has undergone a physical exam before and after the feeding trial to show no physical deficiencies have occurred, and that the data has stayed with in 15% of the beginning body weight, and blood work. Granted, the blood work is very limited, in that it only includes red blood cells levels, and blood chemistry tests that look at liver function, blood protein level, and albumin. This combination of tests help determine the safety and quality of the food versus formulation which has no scientific study to back that the food is going to help your pet grow and thrive. You would not want to take medicine based on calculations with-

out clinical trials, but some dog food companies will ask you to spend extra money on food which is based on that faulty logic.

In some of these clinical trials, palatability is tested to see if the dogs or cats will eat the food readily. For your pet, it’s always best to start with a small bag so you can see if they will eat it and to gradually mix in the new food with the old food for transition. We recommend gradually mixing the diet because for some dogs a rapid switch can lead to diarrhea and vomiting. You may also find as you increase the amount of new food your pet may stop eating or develop an upset stomach, showing that this diet is not suitable for them. If you have to add to the food so they will eat it, such as chicken, beef, or today’s left overs, then I would recommend trying a different diet they find more palatable.

Ease of purchase sounds simple, but if we cannot get the food easily then Continued pg. 19

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Jaclyn Wolinski, DVM

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The Big Bang – Fireworks Fears A

fear of fireworks — and loud noises in general—is common in dogs and other pets, and in many cases, is accompanied by other anxieties such as a thunderstorm phobia or separation anxiety. Dogs with multiple anxieties appear be predisposed to such fears.

For many dogs, the age at which such a phobia develops is unknown.

Even with older dogs, sometimes a phobia can originate from being exposed to a sudden loud noise.

Some pets may have been exposed to stressful or loud noises when still very young, leaving a lasting bad memory.

For fireworks, it may not even be just the noise causing the problem—it may the flash of light that accompanies the loud noise, or the even strong sulfur smell which comes after the explosion.

The sensitivity may be from the suddenness or the frequency of the noise.

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by Brandon Phillips A dog’s excessive fear, or phobia, is damaging to its welfare. The behaviors that result from the fear, such as trembling, whimpering, panting, constantly seeking the owners attention (or protection), and attempting to escape from the noise, can cause injury to the dog and are stressful to the owner as well. This can be particularly frustrating when a pet over-reacts to fireworks even though it is clear that the stimulus which caused the behavior is temporary and clearly of no threat.

The most important aspect of solving a dog phobia problem is to manage and decondition the behavior. The first step is to avoid anything which reinforces the behavior, for instance, if the dog runs away and escapes the noise, that behavior is reinforced. Similarly, the fear response will be reinforced if

an owner rewards the behavior with extra attention to the dog through stroking, or trying to reassure it in any other way. The opposite approach of becoming angry or reproaching the dog will also be counterproductive.

One tactic which may be useful is playing a game with the dog to distract it from the fireworks, or having it play with another dog (as long as the other dog does not have the same fear).

A veterinarian can dispense various products to help alleviate these phobias, however, treatments available for dog phobias are very limited, and none have been proven to work completely. Additionally there are no drugs registered to treat “fireworks” phobias in dogs, because treatments for fear of fireworks fall into broad categories.

There are alternative therapies, such as dog appeasing pheromones and homeopathic treatments.

Prescribed drugs most commonly used in treating fear of fireworks include benzodiazepine, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs).

These drugs could have possible side effects such as lethargy and sedation, and in some cases may cause vomiting. Typically treatment should be started weeks ahead of the stimulus which causes the phobia. In many cases, this is just not practical. In contrast, natural homeopathic remedies do not cause side effects and have received promising reports. Homeopathy is a traditional area of medicine that has become established over centuries of use, and now appear to be making a resurgence in veterinary medicine.

Talk to your vet about how alternative treatments might work for your individual dog.

Regardless of the option used to reduce a pet’s fear of fireworks and loud noises, it is important to recognize that a single approach is very rarely adequate. Any treatment should be combined with every possible effort to include constructive behavioral modification to improve the welfare of the pet and reduce the stress on the pet and owner alike.

Here are a few tips to keep your pet calm and safe this Fourth of July: 1. Leave your pet at home and indoors. Most pets are afraid of fireworks and may try to run away.

2. Close all doors and windows, and play background music or TV to muffle the sounds.

3. Close curtains and blinds to block the flashing lights.

4. Be sure your pet is wearing identification tags or have microchips, in case they do run away or get lost.

5. Try to distract your pet with chew toys and games, or play with another pet who doesn’t share his fear.

6. If you have time, begin desensitization techniques a few weeks before the holiday with appropriate sound CDs, such as thunder, fireworks, trains, sirens, etc. These may help pets get used to the sounds at a lower volume, then as they become more comfortable, gradually increase the volume.

While this technique may seem to work well if your pet his home in its regular environment, never count on it completely. Be sure your pet is still secure during a celebration.

7. If your pet has noise phobias, speak to your veterinarian about natural homeopathic, non-sedating remedies to keep your pet calm during storm and fireworks seasons.

MRSA

by Farin Phillips

Did you know that your dog is prone to some of the same infections

that you are? Most people have heard of Methicillin-Resistant Staph aureus or MRSA. This type is bacterial infection is becoming more common every day, in the human population, and does cross over to our dogs. Staph aureus is a common bacteria which does not typically cause problems for humans or pets. However, it can becomes a concern when you or your pet is injured, providing an entryway for germs to enter the body. This specific strain of Staph aureus, MRSA is resistant to methicillin (a penicillin derivative) and other similar beta-lactam types of antibiotics. These types of antibiotics have been very commonly used in the past, but are no longer effective against the newer resistance seen with this bacteria.

Certain people can be carriers of Staph aureus and yet it may never cause a problem. However, if your dog is exposed to a person that is colonized with this bacteria, they can become infected. Most often in dogs, 16

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MRSA presents as a skin or soft tissue infection. It can be found in post-operative infections and other wounds that become infected. In rare cases, MRSA can infect ears, eyes, and urinary tracts. The main symptoms often associated with a MRSA infection include; fever, discharge from the wound, skin lesions, skin swelling, and a wound that is slow to heal.

While an open wound is the most common way for your dog to become infected with MRSA, there are a few other ways your dog can become infected. They can become colonized by the MRSA organism, just like a human can, by coming in contact with a human or other animal that is already colonized. When they become colonized, the bacteria will often be present in the dog’s nose or anal region.

The colonization state leaves them at a very high risk for developing a MRSA infection, particularly if they have a pre-existing wound. Previous surgery, hospitalizations, and antibiotic use can increase their chances for colonization. Also, if you have a therapy pet,

they often tend to be at an even greater risk, traveling in and out of the hospital setting. Keep in mind that should your dog become colonized, they are able to pass it on to other animals and to humans as well.

Diagnosis of a MRSA infection is done by bacterial culture. Samples are collected by swabbing the infected wound directly. You can also swab the nose or anal region to determine if the dog has already been colonized. If the bacteria is identified as a Staph aureus and it is determined to be resistant to Methicillin, then it is by definition Methicillin-Resistant Staph Aureus.

The actual test to check the antibiotic susceptibility uses the antibiotic oxacillin, not methicillin. However, if it is resistant to one then it is considered to be resistant to all other antibiotics within the particular class. In most cases treatment is not necessary if your dog does become colonized and is otherwise healthy. As long as they are not repeatedly exposed to the bacteria, they will clear the infection within a few weeks. If your dog does

end up with a MRSA infection then treatment is necessary and can include lancing and draining the abscess, as well as keeping the wound clean and bandaged. Antibiotics are used in help clear the infection.

If your dog does become colonized with MRSA there are a few things that you can do to help prevent its spread. Washing your hands is the most important way to prevent the transmission of bacteria between pets and other family members. If your dog does have an infection, then make sure that you use gloves whenever handling the infected area. You should not let MRSA positive pets sleep with you or allow them to lick your face or skin.

Walk your dog on a leash and make sure to clean up after them as soon as possible.

The chances of contracting MRSA, like most infections, can be reduced with proper sanitation and prompt attention to wounds. All abrasions that break the skin, should be properly cleaned and monitored for changes.

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To Shave or not to Shave W

hether it’s a good idea to shave your dog’s coat seems to generate quite a bit of controversy among pet owners, groomers, and even veterinarians. Many breed-specific organizations, and the ASPCA, recommend against shaving. The ASPCA gives three reasons for its position: “Your pet’s coat is like the insulation in your home. Building insulation keeps the house from getting too cold in the winter, and too hot in the summer. A pet’s coat does the same thing – it works not only to keep the animal warm in cold weather, but also to protect him from the effects of too much sun.”

Secondly, “an animal’s coat protects against sunburn and skin cancer.” Pets with thin coats, or white or light-colored coats, are especially vulnerable 18

Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

by Polly Elliott to sun damage, and according to the ASPCA, there are better alternatives to shaving, such as trimming, thinning and brushing your pet’s coat, particularly during the warmer months.

In general, dogs also do best with a properly maintained natural coat. The exception to the rule would be dogs with recurrent hotspots or other skin conditions. Some of these pets do better with shorter hair because their owners can manage their skin conditions more effectively. Double-coated breeds should never be shaved unless there’s a medical reason to do so, as their undercoats act as an excellent insulator against the summer heat. It seems counterintuitive that an extra layer of fur would help a dog stay cooler, but it does. Air is a natural insulator, and air trapped between the

hair follicles and individual hairs on your dog’s body does an efficient job of keeping body temperature in balance.

There can be two very different scenarios which play out after a dog has been shaved. The first scenario involves a dog who has been shaved for a particular reason. For example, your pet has a raging skin infection -- who reacts badly to having all of the hair removed. It is said that some dogs will behave as though someone has stripped away their “superpowers.”

They can become depressed, upset, or sad. On the contrary, some dogs enjoy having the coat removed or heavily thinned. After being shaved, these dogs behave as though they’ve been set free from some kind of hair bondage! They act happier and friskier, and as the groomer wields the clippers, the dog comes alive. However, it’s important to note that these dogs aren’t happy because they’re cooler; they simply prefer short hair, just as many humans do.

If your dog lives indoors in air conditioning, it doesn’t really matter if it’s shaved or not, and if your dog is one that seems happier without so much fur then it’s your responsibility to be diligent about what happens next.

Dogs with responsible owners are never outside long enough to truly overheat, because their owners are right there, managing the time of day the dog goes out, as well as their level of physical exertion, and how much direct sunlight they are exposed to.

On the other hand, if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors unsupervised, you should leave its coat at its normal length. You can then consider adding

some summer time amenities for cool comfort, such as a cooling pool, plenty of shade, and a constant supply of clean fresh water. Keeping your dog brushed and bathed regularly (yes even the outdoor ones), it’s an important part of helping your dog maintain summertime comfort.

Finally, don’t forget to have a regular program for flea and tick control.

Fleas can damage your dog’s coat quickly scratching, and many dogs are allergic to the flea’s saliva, which will cause red irritated skin. If the skin becomes infected, it may be medically necessary to shave your dog. Be sure seek medical advice if your think your dog’s skin may have become infected or things have simply gotten out of control with the coat.

Lost in the Pet Food Aisle, from pg.11 we have to switch brands, which again in some dogs/cats can lead to vomiting and diarrhea. When looking for a food, see if it is a “national” or “regional” brand. The regional brands can be good, but if you split time between two areas you may not be able to purchase it as easily. We see this with people that split time between Ocean City and Florida, for them a national brand is better suited to their needs.

Occasionally brands will have recalls and can be off the shelves for an extended time period. It’s a good idea to check FDA websites and stay current on the subject. The site will give you the latest pet food recalls in the last 6 months and through a quick Internet search you can find previous recalls to find repeat offenders.

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Reprinted by request...

A Message from Homeland Security About Storm Preparedness And Your Pet. PREPARE

Just as you do with your family’s emergency supply kit, think first about

the basics for survival, particularly food and water. Consider two kits. In one, put everything you and your pets will need to stay where you are. The other should be a lightweight, smaller version you can take with you if you and your pets have to get away. Plus, be sure to review your kits regularly to ensure that their contents, especially foods and medicines, are fresh.

Food. Keep at least three days of food in an airtight, waterproof container.

Water. Store at least three days of water specifically for your pets in addition to water you need for yourself and your family.

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Medicines and medical records. Keep an extra supply of medicines your pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof container.

First aid kit. Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet’s emergency medical needs. Most kits should include cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Include a pet first aid reference book.

Collar with ID tag, harness or leash.

Your pet should wear a collar with its rabies tag and identification at all times. Include a backup leash, collar and ID tag in your pet’s emergency supply kit. In addition, place copies of your pet’s registration information,

Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

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adoption papers, vaccination documents and medical records in a clean plastic bag or waterproof container and also add them to your kit. You should also consider talking with your veterinarian about permanent identification such as microchipping, and enrolling your pet in a recovery database.

A picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you in identifying your pet. Include detailed information about species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics.

Familiar items. Put favorite toys, treats or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet.

Crate or other pet carrier. If you need to evacuate in an emergency situation take your pets and animals with you provided that it is practical to do so. In many cases, your ability to do so will be aided by having a sturdy, safe, comfortable crate or carrier ready for transporting your pet. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down.

Sanitation. Include pet litter and litter box if appropriate, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach to provide for your pet’s sanitation needs. You can use bleach as a disinfectant (dilute nine parts water to one part bleach), or in an emergency you can also use it to purify water. Use 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented or color safe bleaches, or those with added cleaners.

PLAN

Be prepared to assess the situation.

Use whatever you have on hand to take care of yourself and ensure your pet’s safety during an emergency. Depending on your circumstances and the nature of the emergency the first important decision is whether you stay put or get away. You should understand and plan for both possibilities.

Use common sense and the information you are learning here to determine if there is immediate danger. In any emergency, local authorities may or may not immediately be able to provide information on what is happening and what you should do. However, watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet for instructions. If you’re specifically told to evacuate, shelterin-place or seek medical treatment, do so immediately.

Create a plan to get away. Plan how you will assemble your pets and anticipate where you will go. If you must evacuate, take your pets with you if practical. If you go to a public shelter, keep in mind your animals may not be allowed inside. Secure appropriate lodging in advance depending on the number and type of animals in your care. Consider family or friends willing to take in you and your pets in an emergency. Other options may include: a hotel or motel that takes pets or a boarding facility, such as a kennel or veterinary hospital that is near an evacuation facility or your family’s meeting place. Find out before an emergency happens if any of these facilities in your area might be viable options for you and your pets.

Develop a buddy system. Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so. Talk with your pet care buddy about your evacuation plans and show them where you keep your pet’s emergency supply kit. Also designate specific locations, one in your immediate neighborhood and another farther away, where you will meet in an emergency.

Talk to your pet’s veterinarian about emergency planning.

Discuss the types of things that you should include in your pet’s emergency first aid kit. Get the names of vets or veterinary hospitals in other cities where you might need to seek temporary shelter. You should also consider talking with your veterinarian about permanent identification such as microchipping, and enrolling your pet in a recovery database. If your pet is microchipped, keeping your emergency contact information up to date and listed with a reliable recovery database is essential to your being reunited with your pet.

Gather contact information for emergency animal treatment.

Make a list of contact information and addresses of area animal control agencies including the Humane Society or SPCA, and emergency veterinary hospitals. Keep one copy of these phone numbers with you and one in your pet’s emergency supply kit.

Obtain “Pets Inside” stickers and place them on your doors or windows, including information on the number

and types of pets in your home to alert firefighters and rescue workers.

Consider putting a phone number on the sticker where you could be reached in an emergency. And, if time permits, remember to write the words “Evacuated with Pets” across the stickers, should you flee with your pets.

STAY INFORMED Stay Informed Know About Types of Emergencies.

Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as assembling an emergency supply kit for yourself, your family and your pets, is the same regardless of the type of emergency. However, it’s important to stay informed about what might happen and know what types of emergencies are likely to affect your region as well as emergency plans that have been established by your state and local government. For more information about how to prepare, visit www.ready. gov or call 1-800-BE-READY. Be prepared to adapt this information to your personal circumstances and make every effort to follow instructions received from authorities on the scene. With these simple preparations, you can be ready for the unexpected. Those who take the time to prepare themselves and their pets will likely encounter less difficulty, stress and worry. Take the time now to get yourself and your pet ready.

Preparing for Your Pets Makes Sense! Get Ready Now.

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Canine Inspiration

by Sandy Phillips

D

ogs add so much to the lives of humans every day. They offer lessons in life and about life itself. It’s not unheard of for dogs to inspire humans to achieve great things. They offer love and support as we toil about challenges and they revel with us in our accomplishments.

While Karen Dimaio’s journey actually begins at the age of 10, while attending an art class, it would be decades later that her three Corgi’s would offer inspiration to develop a hidden talent.

During her very early years, just as Karen’s talent was emerging, she was faced with the sudden loss of her father. While the death of a parent is never easy, at any age, Karen tucked her artwork and talent in a drawer as she worked through the loss.

As life moved forward, she seemed to forget about drawing and simply moved onto other creative things, like music. She grew up, attended college, married, and raised a family.

Karen moved, several times over the 24

Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

years and thankfully, or for some unknown reason, those original art pieces from art class made the move with her each time.

Now settled on the shore for 25 years, Karen was ready for something new. Two years ago, she purchased an instructional art book and dug out those old pieces of art.

As per the book, she began drawing birds with great success. Karen then pondered the idea of drawing one of her Corgi’s and her talent, once again, flowed freely. Karen is also blessed with a photographic memory which adds greatly to her ability to see variations in fur color and highlights, providing for stunning detail in her work. While her talent allows her to draw most anything, Karen certainly captures the spirit of a dog.

Karen shared her new Corgi drawing with some friends on social media, and immediately she received request to commission drawings of her friend’s dogs. While she was

surprised by the immediate response, she was excited about the possibilities. Now, two years later, Karen has a thriving business and has completed pencil drawings of dogs from all over the world, and in fact she even has a wait-list!

If you would like a drawing of your dog, its worth your time to scout just the right image. Karen tells us that the best drawings are from photos taken of your dog at eye level.

From this perspective, she can see the entire face, ear placement, as well as the variety of fur and skin pigments. They come in two sizes, 8 x 10 for only $80 and 11 x 14 for $130. They make outstanding keepsakes, and holiday gifts.

Delmarva Unleashed will be commissioning a drawing of Max, the original DU Dog no longer with us. We, like you, need to find just the right image and get on the list! Follow us on Facebook, and we will be sure to share.

Like most entrepreneur’s, Karen has an eye towards the future and her long-term goals include the dream of compiling a hand-drawn breed book for the American Kennel Club.

For more information contact Karen at kpdimaio@gmail.com or via phone at 410-218-1962.

Saving Your Pet With CPR Check for Breathing & Pulse Check for a pulse using the middle and index fingers below the wrist, inner thigh, below the ankle or where the left elbow touches the chest.

If there is no breathing and no pulse, begin CPR immediately!

Gums Pupils

Look for Other Warning Signs Gums and lips will appear gray in color.

Pupils will be dilated and unresponsive to light.

If not breathing, give breath to animal: Small Dogs & Cats Place your mouth over it’s nose and mouth to blow air in.

Medium -Large Dogs Place your mouth over it’s nose to blow air in.

American Red Cross

Heimlich Maneuver

Start Compressions, If No Pulse Lay dog on it’s right side and place hands over the ribs where it’s elbow touches it’s chest. Begin compressions. Do not give compressions to a dog that has a pulse!

Repeat Procedure

Check pulse after 1 minute and then every few minutes. Continue giving CPR until the animal has a pulse and is breathing on it’s own. Stop CPR after 20 minutes.

Animal Size

Compression Depth

Small Dogs/Cats (< 30 lbs.)

Medium-Large Dogs (30-90 lbs.)

Giant Dogs (> 90 lbs.)

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If breath won’t go in, the airway may be blocked. Turn the dog upside down, with it’s back against your chest. Wrap your arms around the dog and clasp your hands together just below it’s rib cage. (Since your holding the dog upside down, it’s above the rib cage, in the abdomen.) Using both arms, give five sharp trusts to the abdomen. Then check the mouth or airway for a foreign object. If you see it, remove it and give two more rescue breaths. If breaths still won’t go in, repeat.

1/2-1 inch 1-3 inches 1-3 inches

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Compression Per Breath 5 5 10

Continued from pg. 36

to be very good at preventing the accumulation of tartar, but not every dog can tolerate these kinds of bones.

Femur bones, knuckle bones and other hard bones can be very brutal to dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s teeth and even sometimes can cause fractures. Dogs may also break off and swallow small shards of bone which can be irritating and/ or dangerous to their GI tract. Antlers offer a safer alternative which minimize splintering, and rawhides are softer, but not digestible, so you must be careful to prevent your dog from swallowing large chunks. Bully sticks and Himalayan Dog Chews are fully digestible alternatives.

Lastly, we should discuss the health ramifications of adding calories into

your petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diet. Just like us, pets need to burn more calories than they eat during exercise on a daily basis to maintain their body weight and not gain. Portion control and a balance of healthy calories, versus treats, should always be considered. You should consult with your veterinarian to determine the average number of calories your pet should eat per day, or visit www.petobesityprevention. com for more information.

Room for the whole family, but cuddle up if you prefer!

itsjustabetterhouse.com Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

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Seawater Concerns

by Sandy Phillips

I

t’s time to head to the beach! For those of us able to take our dogs with us, a day at the beach can be loads of fun. Many dogs love the water and will frolic in the waves for hours.

Then too, the little guys enjoy laying near the cool water line or spending time along the more relaxed beaches of the bay, where they can chase sand crabs.

As you pack your beach bag, be sure to include plenty of fresh water for your dogs. Remember, they are wearing fur coats and will need rehydration before you do. Be sure they know where to find the water bowl, it should be kept in the shade, maybe under the truck bumper or if you’re not near your vehicle, keep it under the umbrella where it’s cooler. Water will heat quickly in a metal bowl directly in the sun, so it’s a better option to pack something made from a safe plastic or cloth travel bowl. Most dogs will enjoy a refreshing Gatorade too, be sure to have your dog try different flavors before heading to the beach.

The electrolytes in the drink serve 28

Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

the same purpose for your dogs as in humans, and they can be kept right in the cooler.

Even if you provide a constant flow of healthy beverage for your dog, some wave hounds will still ingest a considerable amount of seawater; it’s just in the nature of chasing balls or jumping in the waves. Seawater is not good for dogs and ingesting too much can result in an upset stomach, and in some instances, the situation can turn dire quickly. Use your best judgment if your dog appears to be in any type of trouble. Excessive vomiting, projectile diarrhea and severe lethargy are all reasons to head to the Pet ER right away. Fortunately, for most dogs, you are just dealing with an upset stomach which will resolve itself in 24 hours or so. If your dog may have gotten dehydrated from very little healthy drinking, then you may have a more serious situation brewing.

In the meantime, while you’re trying to determine if this is a life or death situation, here’s a few things you can do to help your sea-sick dog begin to recover:

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Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5:00

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•

Try to keep your dog hydrated.

Yes, this can seem impossible if everything is coming back up, but try to get them to take small amounts of water. Again, electrolyte beverages can offer some assistance.

•

Try to be supportive and reassure your dog. Have them rest in an area which can be easily cleaned up, and work through the situation with them until the stomach calms down.

•

There is always the chance that your dog ingested something dead or dying they found lying around in the sand, so keep an eye on the expelled contents, in case you need to chat with your vet for additional solutions.

•

Most veterinary professionals will suggest withholding food for 24 hours while the stomach is allowed to rest, then begin offering a rice/ protein mixture for the next 48 hours. The traditional ratio is 75% cooked rice to 25% chicken or beef. Of course, there are other acceptable proteins, such as venison, duck, etc. These meals should be offered in small quantities while you access your dog’s ability to keep food down. After 48 hours, with no additional vomiting or diarrhea, it’s often acceptable to transition to the normal diet.

Remember, seawater ingestion can go either way, If you have any concerns, call your vet for instructions specific to your situation.

Dog Bites Gingerbread House Competition

Mark your calendar!

Be a part of the inaugural Dog Bites Gingerbread House Competition!

Competition to be held October 3 at the Pooch Palooza Dog Festival Frontier Town Western Theme Park & Campground, Berlin, MD. Pre-entry required, visit PoochPalooza.com for registration form, rules and details.

Important Note: All entries must be made from dog treats or canine edible items.

Pooch Palooza 410-726-7334

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Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

Jerky Treats

from the FDA

S

ince 2007, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received reports of illnesses in pets associated with the consumption of jerky pet treats. As of September 30, 2014, FDA has received approximately 5000 reports of pet illnesses which may be related to consumption of the jerky treats. These include about 270 reports received since FDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s last update in May 2014, a decrease from the 1800 complaints received in the previous six-month period. The reports involve more than 5,800 dogs, 25 cats, three humans, and include more than 1,000 canine deaths. Although it is impossible to determine in every case whether the events reported were in fact caused by eating jerky pet treats, FDA continues to believe that there is an association between some of the reports and consumption of jerky pet treats.

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Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

What we are doing After testing various jerky pet treats for antibiotics and antivirals, FDA has implemented an Import Alert that directs its field investigators to detain shipments of products from companies with positive tests. These products cannot enter the U.S. unless the manufacturer or shipper can provide third-party documentation that the products donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t contain illegal antibiotic or antiviral residues. FDA continues to work with laboratories across the country to investigate causes of these illnesses. To date, testing for contaminants in jerky pet treats has not revealed a cause for the illnesses.

We have tested for: Salmonella Metals or Elements (such as arsenic, cadmium and lead, etc.)

Markers of irradiation level (such as acyclobutanones).

Pesticides Antibiotics (including both approved and unapproved sulfanomides and tetracyclines) Antivirals (including amantadine, rimantadine, oseltamivir and others) Mold and mycotoxins (toxins from mold) Rodenticides Nephrotoxins (such as aristolochic acid, maleic acid, paraquat, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, toxic hydrocarbons, melamine, and related triazines) Other chemicals and poisonous compounds (such as endotoxins).

Testing has also included measuring the nutritional composition of jerky pet treats to verify that they contain the ingredients listed on the label and do not contain ingredients that are not listed on the label. Another area of investigation includes the effects of irradiation and its byproducts.

FDA has also had the opportunity to perform necropsies (post-mortem examinations) on dogs suspected of having jerky pet treat-associated illness. We have completed 72 of these as of September 30, 2014. The FDA performed necropsies on as many cases as possible in order to learn more about the cause of death, even when reported symptoms did not appear to be related to eating jerky pet treats. About 54 percent (39 dogs)

were found to have died from identified causes such as widespread cancer, Cushingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease, mushroom toxicity, parvovirus enteritis, bacterial meningitis, abscess, pneumonia, cardiac lesions, infarcts, or internal bleeding secondary to trauma. In the remaining 33 dogs, necropsy did not identify specific causes and jerky pet treats could not be ruled out as contributing to the deaths. Twenty-six of these dogs had indications of kidney disease and two dogs had gastrointestinal disease.

Few of the necropsies (5 of 72) revealed indications of the Fanconi syndrome (or Fanconi-like syndrome or FLS) that has become the hallmark of the investigation, perhaps because some dogs diagnosed with FLS either improved or recovered with appropriate veterinary care and removal of the treats from the diet. Additionally, the necropsies of three of the dogs who tested positive for FLS revealed causes of death unrelated to jerky pet treats.

Although the majority of the dogs reported as testing positive for FLS survived, and their FLS seemed to resolve once the treats are no longer fed, it is important to note that most of these cases also received veterinary care, including hospitalization, intravenous fluids, etc., during the duration of their illness.

What consumers can do Watch your pet closely. Signs that may occur within hours to days of feeding the jerky treat products are decreased appetite, decreased activity, vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes with Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

33

blood or mucus), increased water consumption and/or increased urination. Severe cases are diagnosed with pancreatitis, gastrointestinal bleeding, and kidney failure or the resemblance of a rare kidney related illness called Fanconi syndrome.

If your pet has experienced signs of illness, please report it to FDA. Once a consumer has filed a report with their local FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator, or electronically through our safety reporting portal, FDA will determine whether there is a need to conduct a follow-up phone call or obtain a sample of the jerky pet treat product in question. While FDA does not necessarily respond to every individual complaint submitted, each report becomes part of the body of knowledge that helps to inform FDA on the situation or incident.

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Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

The FastFetch Cup Next qualifier August 8th Worcester County Fair Pre-register online at www.PoochPalooza.com Finals at Pooch Palooza Oct. 3, 2015

The PlaidDog.com SOON 35

Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

by Jaclyn Wolinski, DVM

T

How to Treat Your Dog?

his isn’t a question of whether you’re mean or nice, but rather a discussion of potato or rice, sweet or spice. What to feed our pets is a hot topic of conversation. Typically , we discuss what food they should be eating on a daily basis, but the conversation can be expanded into what treats are appropriate to add into our pet’s daily diet. There are crunchy treats, chewy treats, jerky treats, rawhide treats, marrow bones, and homemade treats.

First, you should consider any sensitivities your dog might have. Animals can be allergic to anything just like humans. Some of the most common allergens are either proteins or grains, and include things like chicken, fish, corn or wheat. Many people believe glutens are pro-inflammatory, whether or not the dog is allergic. For these reasons, there are many pet treats now available that are corn, wheat and gluten free. These treats are wonderful options, but not necessary for every pet.

36

Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

Single ingredient treats such as meat jerky or dehydrated veggie chips seem like simple options, but you need to be very careful to avoid jerky treats made in China. The FDA has been investigating thousands of cases of dogs that have been sickened, or even killed, by eating jerky made in China. Make sure to check the small print on the back of the bag to find out where the treats are made. A safer option would be to search the Internet for instructions on making your own meat jerky at home. If you’re a little more adventurous, or think your dog would like to try something new, then you can find many recipes online for homemade dog cookies, snacks and even “pup” cakes.

Many people look for treats that are good for their dog’s teeth or will freshen their breath. Quite often, bad breath is caused by plaque and tartar and should be evaluated by a veterinarian to determine whether your pet needs a dental cleaning. Rawhides and other harder chew bones tend Continued pg. 27

too!

Pie-Eating Contest Canine Photobooth

Frontier Town / West Ocean City

Saturday, Oct.3 Advance tickets can be purchased online at PoochPalooza.com Follow us on Facebook for details, as they are available.

Helping Support the Worcester County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s K-9 Unit

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Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

Delmarva Dock Dogs Microchip Clinic Delmarva Unleashed Cover Model Search

Costume Contest Tennis Ball Lottery

DOG Festival ts Even & t s Conte New

Seminars Vendors & More!

Pooch Palooza

Doggie Socials - Early Summer 2015

Izzy

Hiccup

Jewel, working the register at Concord pet

38

Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

Natt

Reba & Maia

Mackenzie Paisley

Haiz

Abby Colby

Your dog could appear in the Doggie Socials!

Send us high resolution photos of your dog having fun on the Peninsula. Be sure to include your dogs name to be eligible.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy, just post them on our Facebook page!

Shadow

Cider

Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015

39

Enjoy dining right on the bay!

Fresh Fish Daily, Crab Cakes, Certified Angus Beef, Baby Back Ribs, Pasta, plus all your An Eastern Shore Favorite!

Serving Lunch, Dinner & Late Night Fare.

Take Me To Macky’s!

Waterfront Restaurant, Bar & Grill Ocean City, Maryland

Leashed Dogs Welcome!

40

On the Bay at 54th Street (Behind Delmarva Unleashed Early Summer 2015 Chauncey’s Surf-O-Rama)

410-723-5565 www.mackys.com