Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015 by Grand Living Magazine

Vol. 7 Issue 1 - Winter 2015

Unleashed Delmarva

Complimentary

Dog Food

The First in a Six Part Series

Cancer Treatment Options

The Pet Trust Your Pet and Second-Hand Smoke Canine Oral Basics Puppy Proofing Your Home 1

Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

From the Publisher I rarely write these letters anymore. I think the space is better used offering you information about your dogs. However, as we begin a new year, I would like to thank our readers, now almost 200,000 of you, who have allowed us to continue to grow. You have helped us to get the Pooch Palooza™ dog festival off the ground and we are all ready planning for a bigger and better event in 2015! I’m taking a bite of the dog food issue this year; seems we ruffle fur when we release articles on the subject, but we continually get questioned about what to feed, what’s healthy, what’s canine “junk food” and an affordable choice. I truly believe the answer is in education about what dog food labels mean. Just because your neighbors food work’s for their dog, it doesn’t mean it’s the optimum choice for your dog. Every dog is individual and should have a choice made just for them. Quite often dogs in the same family will need different diets, particularly with the trend for one large and one small dog in the family pack. Remember, our job is to share facts, and we make every effort to be sure our resources are reliable. But ours is not the final word; read, read, read about what’s available to you and how it applies to your individual dog. You can also talk to your vet about any particular needs your dog might have. Remember, if they are “like family,” you need to feed them as such. Surely you think about what your human kids eat! Once you have a better understanding about how to read the label and current trends in canine nutrition, you will feel much more confident when you stand in front of the overwhelming options on the market. Dry? Raw? Freeze Dried? Canned? In 2015, we will be holding “heats” for a competition with finals held at Pooch Palooza™. We are currently working with connections to hold preliminary competitions at different locales across the lower shore, so that taking part is easy. Like us on Facebook for up-to-date details on where, when and what we’re up to. We are listening and trying to expand our events based on what we hear from you. “Delmarva Unleashed” Cover Model Search continues to be an extremely popular event as garnering your dog on a magazine cover is exciting. Four of our six covers for 2015 are committed as of Dec. 31. 2014. Because the two remaining covers are not commited, your pup may just secure one by attending our events and I’ve seen great candids from Pooch Palooza™ which would make wonderful covers. Who knows...we might just “discover” your dog in 2015. Lastly, don’t forget to order your copy of the “Delmarva Unleashed” Wall Calendar at DelmarvaUnleashed.com. It’s a 13-month calendar we have compiled to raise money for local canine programs. Our current thought is to fund a low-cost vaccine clinic which everyone can benefit from; maybe additional rabies clinics or help fund our local canine blood supply. Here’s to 2015! Let’s make it something to bark about! dy 4

Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

San

Bark

of the Town Top Dog Names from 2014 According to Veterinary Pet Insurance’s (VPI) annual list of pet names, a new trend is emerging in dogs. In 2014, there were a growing number of pups with monikers related to vehicles; names like “Diesel, Harley, Bentley, Porsche and Autobahn are on the rise. However, those names still didn’t make the top 10. Curtis Steinhoff, Director of Communications for VPI says “popularity in pet names can be affected by various factors in pop culture such as movies, characters, actors, cars, etc.,” which sums up the reasoning behind the number one dog name for 2014, Bella. This name has held the top position for three years.

1. Bella 2. Bailey 3. Max 4. Lucy 5. Molly 6. Charlie 7. Daisy 8. Buddy 9. Maggy 10. Sophie

Do Dogs Dream? If you've ever noticed your pooch twitching in her sleep, this probably means she's dreaming. Researchers found that dogs have similar sleep patterns and brain activity as humans, and that small breeds tend to dream more than large ones. Psychology Today suggests they're probably imagining familiar activities like playing outside or chasing their tail. 5

Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

Do Dogs Have a “Sixth Sense?” In a 2010 poll, 67 percent of pet owners reported their pets acting strangely right before a storm, and 43 percent said their pets behaved oddly right before something bad happened. The top clues include whining, erratic behavior, or trying to hide in a safe place.

contents 5 Bark of the Town 8 Dog Food

Delmarva Unleashed Vol. 7 — Issue 1 —Winter 2015

First in a six-part series.

14 16 18 22 24 26 28 30 33 35

Cancer Treatment Options IRS Goes to the Dogs & Cats Canine Oral Basics Your Pet & SecondHand Smoke Puppy Proofing Your Home How Do I Know It’s Time? Should Retirement Go To the Dogs? The Pet Trust Why Do Dogs Growl? Winter Socials

Publisher Sandy Phillips Editor LouAnn Davis Creative Farin Phillips grandlivingmag@verizon.net Contributing Writers Polly Elliott Margie Klapper Brandon Phillips John Maniatty, V.M.D. Jaclyn Wolinski, D.M.V.

Advertising Info: (410)726-7334

Cover: From the Pooch Palooza Cover Model Search, Jinx, a Labradoodle owned by Tanya Knott of Berlin, MD. Delmarva Unleashed is published six times a year; Winter, Spring, Summer I & Summer II, 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 of 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 speciality 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.

Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

Delmarva Unleashed Announces...

The FastFetch Cup FREE to compete!

How • • • •

• • • • • 7

Fast Is Your Dog?

Open to All Dogs! Small dog category (>35 lbs), Large dog category (35 lbs+). A fetch competition, with a timed component. Three qualifing heats: (Your dog must qualify at one.) Delmarva Shorebirds Bark in the Park - April 27, 2015 Worcester County Fair - August 8, 2015 Pooch Palooza™ - October 3, 2015 Finals Competion - Pooch Palooza™ - October 3, 2015 Six ribbons awarded at each “heat” event. Top two winners from each heat are invited to compete in the finals. Trophy, Champion & Reserve Champion Ribbons awarded at the finals. Like us on Facebook/Pooch Palooza for details & times. Or visit PoochPalooza.com for competition rules. Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

Dog Food First of a Six-Part Series

by Sandy Phillips

s recalls continue and unscrupulous dog food manufacturers continue to source ingredients out of the country, where quality standards are lower than here in the U.S. What you feed your dog continues to be a question. Keeping an eye on your dog’s food is vital to its well-being. Without some basic knowledge about what is going in your dog’s mouth, you could be putting them at risk for a host of health problems. These issues may not appear over-night but may slowly steal quality of life from your dog. Manufacturers also continue to reformulate, so the label on your dog’s food may be ever-changing. Manufacturers do not have to inform you of a change in formulation. Some will note it on the bag, “Now with Glucosamine,” or other additives. Maybe they have removed chicken “by-products,” a modern day no-no in quality dog food. They will most certainly tell 8

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you those things, but little changes can and do go undetected unless your dog has an adverse reaction. We receive a significant amount of correspondence, via email, Facebook messages, etc., asking what to feed, so we hope this series of articles we share with you in 2105 will help you in your search to find the optimum food for your dog’s personal needs. Please know that this topic is a little “dicey” for us, as we always seem to prickle a few feathers, but our intentions are to help you make an informed choice with regards to your dog’s diet, and the abundant number of choices make things even more complicated. The search for the optimum food for your individual dog begins with a conversation with your veterinary professional. They can outline any special dietary needs your dog may have. Perhaps there is a need for

a low-protein diet, or low carb, for weight management, etc. If your pet is a “paw chewer” or has skin issues, your vet may feel your pup has food allergies. They can offer direction regarding proteins and other components to avoid, which will aid in a resolution. The conversation with your vet is particularly important if your pup has on-going health issues, as diet will play a very important role in maintaining overall good health. Let’s begin with a bit about dog food history and the evolution of the modern canine diet. The first commercially-prepared pet food was a dog biscuit produced in England about 1860 by an American named James Spratt. He was living in London as a salesperson peddling electrical equipment. While there, Spratt observed dogs being fed leftover ship’s biscuits. He thought he could come up with something better and prepared a concoction of wheat meal, vegetables, and meat. There was clearly a need to be met, as his company thrived selling the food to English country gentlemen for their sporting dogs. By the late 1800’s, Spratt’s’ company had been taken over by a larger British company and they began production in the U.S. At that time, several domestic brands of kibble began to appear on the market, as well. Canned horsemeat entered dog food after World War I, and was an important protein for several decades. After World War II, meat meals became part of the standard for cat and dog food. The 1950’s saw an expansion of the dry food market through adaptations of the equipment used to produce hu9

Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

man breakfast cereals. During the 1960’s, feeding options became diversified. The market was now comprised of both wet and dry pet foods, as well as the new soft “moist” meals which began taking their share of the market. At this time, the National Research Council developed the first of several nutrient profiles as the result of research at leading universities. This was a time of a pet food boom, as the food industry provided pet owners with better foods for their pet. The manufacturers created a very profitable business using by products of the meat packing, poultry, cereal and other food industries which prepared food for human consumption. Re-read the previous paragraph, it’s the pivotal point where we need to educate you about what’s acceptable today and why your feeding practices need to move into the 21st century. Today’s modern dog needs a modern-day diet. One that lives up to standards of today’s advances and research. Is there still kibble made by the 1960’s standards? Sadly, a wealth of it! Big companies that make all kinds of food need something to do with the “leftovers;” leftover chicken feathers, leftover beaks, leftover middlings. They either PAY money to dispose of it, or grind it right into dog food and MAKE money, selling it. It’s really that simple. Do they all do that? Thank fully no, but beware of some grocery store brands. The best thing you can do for your dog is to read the back of the bag, where ever you purchase it. Is all grocery store pet food bad? No, however, some are much better than others and

some... Again, read the label! Make an informed choice for your dog. As the industry has grown, regulations of the Food & Drug Administration, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) have evolved to provide standards and assurance to pet owners that the processing methods and standards offer better products for our pets and meet minimal standards. However, there are lots of gray areas and those unscrupulous manufacturers know just where they are. There are things that happen in the dog/pet food industry that would make you cringe. Stay with us for our Spring issue where we will offer more about meat, meat meal and the dreaded “DDD” that can creep into your pet’s food. Yes, that’s “meat” too; it stands for “Dead, Dying and Diseased.” It’s tough to think about, but you need to be aware of it. In this series we are also going to offer side bars which offer you more education on additives; you know those really long hard to pronounce words that make the ingredient list so long? Some are good for our pets and others not so much. Ethoxyquin is a controversial food additive which is sometimes added to prevent the rancidification of fats. Why is it controversial? Because it’s also used to make rubber and pesticides. According to the Food & Drug Administration, “it may safely be used in animal feeds when used according to regulations.” If our dogs ate a very wide variety of foods, like most humans, the small amount of the Ethoxyquin found in the foods probably would have very 10

Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

little impact. However, most dogs eat the same food/foods at every meal, so their rate of exposure to those trace amounts is actually increased. In our opinion, why take the chance? Is that not like repeated exposure to chemicals? Are there adverse effects over time? There is currently not enough evidence for a flat conclusion and there are other healthier preservatives. Quality dog food manufacturers opt for those avenues. Keep the side bars we are providing and get out the label on your dog’s food. Some manufacturers have put their own research into the foods they produce, and offer very high quality standards and only add what is needed. Sometimes the short list, that you can pronounce, is much better. However, little additions such as Yucca, can offer lots of health benefits. Many of the items in this issues side bar are cheap ingredients for manufacture’s to add to achieve their goals. Typically the better choices are much more expensive for them to use. The next time you complain about how expensive the good quality dog food is, remember you do get what you pay for in dog food. Visit our Facebook page and share your questions about dog food. We are reaching out to lots of dog food manufacturers and nutritional professionals for more information that we are happy to share. Education is key to getting the healthy food in your dog’s bowl.

Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

Additives Primer Part 1 The “additives” in dog foods are typically added to preserve certain characteristics or properties related to food, color, odor and taste. Many have no nutritional value, however, some natural additives DO have value to your pets diet. The beneficial “additives” are often found in higher quality dog foods. For the purpose of offering a heads up on undesirable components first, let’s define some negative ingredients. In our next issue we will focus on “beneficial additives.” (Remember, not all of these statements have been proven by the FDA. Talk to your vet for more specifics.) From our research, avoid the following ingredients and they are in no particular order here. Phosphoric Acid: This is in Coke a Cola, and you should not be sharing soda’s with your dog. While the ingredient is probably harmless (you drink it), it’s often found in poor-quality dog food and is used as an emulsifier and discoloration inhibitor. Propylene Glycol: Dog people should know this one! It’s anti-freeze. Sadly you will find it in some foods used as a humectant (to keep moist foods moist). Glyceryl Monosterate: Typically used as an emulsifier,this is widely used in the foodstuffs industry, but can often be contaminated with other chemical additives. It’s just better off to avoid it all together. You should too!

Additives Primer Part 1 Ethoxyquin: Originally developed by Monsanto as a stabilizer for rubber. The original FDA permit for use as a stabilizer in animal feed limited use to two years. It has been linked to thyroid, kidney, reproductive and immune related illnesses as well as cancer, but to date, there is still no conclusive evidence. Currently there are studies underway to make further determinations about safety in pet foods.

Propyl Gallate: Can also be listed as Gallic Acid or Propyl Ester. Again an additive with no conclusive evidence, but it is suspected of causing liver problems, including cancer. There are much better alternatives for manufactures to use, this is just a cheap one.

Artificial Colors; Blue 2, Red 40, Titanium Dioxide, Yellow 5, Yellow 6: That brightly colored kibble that is supposed to make you think there are lots of fruits and veggies in the food is just for show. While some of these artificial colors have been linked to tumors of specific organs, and the FDA acknowledges some concerns, data is currently inconclusive. While titanium dioxide has been listed as non-toxic, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a color additive, that like those that have toxic indications, is probably better left out. If your a kibble person, your best choice is to feed the plain looking kind. There is no difference in taste. The color is totally for the humans benefit.

Corn Syrup, Cane Molasses, Sorbitol, Sugar: Absolutely unnecessary! There is evidence that pets can become addicted to foods that contain sugars. Continuous intake can promote blood sugar issues, obesity, nervousness, tooth decay, allergies and more.

BHA & BHT: Banned from human use in many countries, but still permitted in the U.S. at this time. It is a possible human carcinogen and has shown to be carcinogenic in animal studies. 12

Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

Sweeteners?

Pomaces? According to AAFCO, these are inexpensive by-products of human food processing and do not contain the whole compliment of nutrients as in whole fresh fruits. While there is no evidence they are harmful, because they are comprised of such nothingness, they really have little to no value. This is an excellent example of big companies wanting to dispose of something they would have to pay to get rid of. (Re-read the paragraph on the 1960â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s again. pg. 9)

Everything You Need For The Winter Ahead

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Cancer Treatment Options modality. The difference is Cancer is something that most of tothateither the treatments are scaled down to us, unfortunately, have dealt with in some way or another; whether affected directly or a family member has been diagnosed, everyone cringes when they hear the dreaded “C” word. For most of us, it’s he same when our pets are diagnosed with cancer. Many experience fear, sadness, uncertainty, and trepidation when faced with deciding how to help our pets battle the disease. I speak from experience as my own cat was diagnosed with lymphoma this past September. Some cancers, whether internal or external, are surgical candidates for removal or “debulking.” Debulking means to remove as much of the tumor as possible so that other treatment options might be more effective in clearing the cancer. This could involve removal of a mass, removal of an organ affected by cancer, or a limb amputation. Many cancers which affect our pets can be treated with chemotherapy and radiation, similar to humans. The type and location of the cancer often determines its responsiveness 14

Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

minimize side effects and maximize quality of life. The advantage of these treatments is the extensive amount of research supporting their use and effectiveness. The downsides are expense and possible need for repeated travel, depending on your proximity to a veterinary oncologist. If surgery, radiation or chemotherapy are not options for your pet, there are many alternative therapies available. Many people question whether acupuncture or Chinese herbs are effective in treating cancer. Acupuncture needles should not be placed near the site of cancer, but may be used in some cases to assist with certain symptoms of cancer, such as pain, loss of appetite, or nausea. Medical marijuana, or Cannabis, has been in the news a lot recently. Marijuana has been documented to decrease the side effects of chemotherapy in people, such as pain and nausea, and those effects transfer to pets as well. You must be very careful and consult your veterinarian when us-

ing this medication with pets. Dogs in particular are very sensitive to the chemical THC in marijuana, which is the ingredient responsible for getting you “high.” There is a hempbase product available called CannaPet, which does not contain THC, but still contains cannabinoids and terpenoids, which are the chemicals responsible for the positive effects of medical marijuana. Unknown to many people is an alternative cancer therapy called “neoplasene.” This medication should only be used under direct supervision of an experienced veterinarian. There is a topical application available for external tumors and an oral version that is used for internal masses and long-term maintenance. During the battle with my cat’s cancer, I’ve used all of these techniques

and more. We started with chemotherapy, but added Cannabis early on when her appetite and energy level was poor; she was begging for food within 12 hours of her first dose. I’ve also had her on a combination of supplements, such as L-lysine, Vitamin C, and Astragalus to support her immune system. I currently have her on oral neoplasene because the chemotherapy has affected her blood cell counts and she has been restricted from further treatments until her counts improve. My most sincere hope is that you never have to face these issues personally or with your pet. If the unfortunate does occur, I hope you find comfort in knowing there are many options available to help maximize your pet’s comfort through the process.

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IRS Goes to the Dogs & Cats A

by Sandy Phillips

Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

s a result of the ground-breaking case, VanDusen vs Commissioner, people who care for foster pets in their home are allowed to deduct out-of-pocket expenses which can be “demonstrably linked to volunteer work for a qualified non-profit.” This deduction is only available if you are fostering via a 501(c)(3) approved charity which is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). While volunteers cannot deduct the value of the services they provide, such as time spent cleaning cages, assisting in fundraising, and professional expertise, things like food expenses, medicine, veterinary bills, beds, crates, collars, toys etc., are eligible. If you have your own pet, it’s imperative to keep expenses for foster pups separate from those of true family dogs. As the IRS reviews your filing, they may question excessive expenditures. If your expenses total more than $250 for the year, be sure to get a letter from the 501 (c)(3) organization you are affiliated with. It should clearly state your status as a “foster care provider.” Ideally, it will also include the number of pets which have been with you, and for what duration, during the calendar year.

Jaclyn Wolinski, DVM

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Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

Canine Oral Basics by Polly Elliott

HTheowaverage many teeth do dogs have? adult dog has about a

third more teeth than a human. Adult dogs have 42 permanent teeth compared to 32 average human teeth (not counting any wisdom teeth, which are a “bonus.”). Puppies possess 28 baby teeth, while human babies will have 20 deciduous or “baby” teeth. When do dogs begin to lose their baby teeth? Puppies begin losing baby teeth around 12 to 16 weeks of age. By four months, almost all of a pup’s deciduous teeth have been shed, and many of the permanent teeth have already erupted and are in place. 18

Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

What causes a dog to break a tooth? The most common cause of tooth breakage among dogs is chewing on objects that are too hard, for their teeth. To help prevent tooth breakage, watch how your dog chews on any new toy. If it is aggressively biting down, trying to crack the toy, you probably should not let the dog chew on that toy. For especially aggressive chewers, look for toys they cannot get their mouths around. Can dogs regrow adult teeth if they lose them? A common myth: Unlike species such as sharks, dogs can’t regrow lost or damaged teeth. If they lose an adult tooth, they lose it forever, just as a human. This is why it’s so important to take good care of your pet’s teeth. They need to last a lifetime.

Do dogs get cavities? Dental caries or “cavities,” as they’re more commonly known, are rare in dogs. This is due to many factors including a relatively low-sugar diet, differences in mouth bacteria, and the shape of the teeth. When cavities do occur, they can be treated the same way as human cavities; drill out the damaged part of the tooth and fill it with a special dental compound. In severe cases involving tooth root exposure, endodontic procedures will be performed such as root canal and capping. Extraction of the affected tooth is required in certain cases. What’s that really big tooth in the middle of my dog’s upper jaw? The largest tooth in a dog’s mouth is the upper fourth premolar, also known as the carnassial tooth. Its special shape and tooth surface is designed to help shear, crush, and hold. This is why you see dogs grasp chew toys with the side of their mouth, chomping feverishly. This is also why you have to replace so many chew toys. Next time, blame the carnassial teeth, instead of your dog, for devouring their toy. I heard that dogs could get mouth cancer. Is that true? Unfortunately, oral tumors are diagnosed in many dogs. In fact, it’s estimated that one in four dogs will die of some form of cancer. Malignant oral tumors in dogs can be very aggressive and quickly spread throughout the body if untreated. If you observe any swelling, lumps, or dark and unusual colored tissue in your dog’s mouth, 19

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have it examined immediately. If diagnosed early, many oral cancers have a relatively good prognosis. Does it matter whether my dog eats hard or soft food? Studies show that hard kibbles are slightly better at keeping plaque from accumulating on the teeth. Currently, there are several pet foods which have been proven to help reduce plaque and tartar. If you think your dog needs a special food for oral hygiene, consult your veterinarian. Be sure to have your dog’s teeth evaluated regularly. February is National Canine Dental Health month and many veterinary practices offer specials on dental services during this time.

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Your Pet and Second-Hand Smoke Due to the medical advances over the last century, it is common

by Brandon Phillips 22

Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

knowledge that smoking is bad for your health. At the same time, it seems to slip peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s minds that second- hand smoke does impact their pets as well. Second-hand smoke is just as bad for them as it is for children, and can cause them to develop many diseases such as cancer, emphysema, seizures, lung disease, etc. Below you will find a collaboration of the different effects that second-hand smoke can have on various pets, including what signs to look for and the potential problems which might be associated with these symptoms. Dogs arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t immune to the effects of Environmental Tobacco Smoke, (ETS). Research shows dogs living with smokers are more likely to suffer from respiratory diseases (i.e., asthma, and bronchitis, and lung cancer) than are dogs living in smoke-free homes. Also, the risk of cancer of the nasal passages increases by 250% in longnosed breeds of dogs with exposure to high levels of ETS. Studies suggest that muzzle length plays a role in the type of cancer a dog is likely to develop from second hand smoke. According to recent research on LiveScience.com, dogs with long muzzles are more likely to develop nose and sinus cancers, because their noses and sinuses have more surface area on which carcinogens can accumulate, while dogs with short and medium length muzzles are

most likely to develop lung cancer from second-hand smoke. Cats are more prone to develop cancers of the mouth and lymph nodes because of second-hand smoke. When cats groom themselves, they lick up the toxic substances which accumulated on their fur. “This grooming behavior exposes the mucous membranes of their mouth to the cancer-causing carcinogens,” Veterinarian Carolyn MacAllister of Oklahoma State University tells LiveScience.com. In fact, a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that cats, living in homes where someone smokes a pack of cigarettes or more each day, are three times more likely to develop malignant lymphoma than cats living with non-smokers. An additional study published in Veterinary Medicine found that cats exposed to smoke from one to 19 cigarettes a day, are four times more likely to be diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, the most common and an aggressive type of oral cancer in cats. Birds are extremely sensitive to air pollutants and are at risk for lung cancer and pneumonia when exposed to second-hand smoke. Second-hand smoke has also been found to cause heart problems in rabbits. The nicotine in cigarettes is highly toxic to pets if ingested, so keeping cigarettes out of the house entirely is always your best bet. Fortunately, in a 2008 study in the journal Tobacco Control, nearly one third of pet-parent smokers surveyed said information about the dangers of second-hand smoke to their pets would motivate them to try to quit smoking. So, be sure to share this info with anyone you know who smokes. They don’t want to get the call from their vet saying, “it’s malignant.” 23

Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

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Puppy Proofing Your Home

W hen it comes to finally taking the plunge into the world of owning your

own dog, most people tend to lean towards the puppy route. While puppies are adorable, it is comparable to taking care of a small child and hence you should take special precautions in your home. Please heed the following tips and tricks as they apply, and make changes as necessary, to better fit your scenario and pup. 1. Put your shoes out of reach. If a shoe does get chewed by your new puppy, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just give it to the puppy because the puppy cannot distinguish between a shoe and a toy. It's better to make all shoes off limits.

Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

2. Unplug or wrap up exposed electrical cords. Move lighting around so that the cords are running behind furniture and the puppy cannot get to it. Where there are a lot of cords, such as your television or computer, either block access to the cords or duct tape the cords to the floor. 3. Use an anti-chew spray on furniture legs, woodwork and other immovable items to keep the puppy from chewing on them. 4. Remove throw rugs which have fringe until your puppy is older. 5. Close doors or install a baby gate to keep the puppy out of rooms that are off limits. This can include your child's room, because puppies will chew and

possibly swallow children's toys, crayons and other small objects.

ages to knock over the can, the puppy will chew and/or swallow contents.

6. Determine if there are dangerous plants in your yard which your puppy may chew. (Visit www.aspca.org for a list of toxic plants.) As you inspect your back yard, check any fencing for holes that a small pup may crawl through.

10. Remove tablecloths and runners. A quick pull on one of these can bring everything from the table down. Also, check any long dangling cords from window shades that a puppy may be able to reach.

7. Keep your puppy away from a location where you have used fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides for a minimum of 48 hours. (All dogs for that matter.)

11. Block access to your swimming pool, because not all puppies can swim.

8. Install baby gates at the bottom and tops of stairs ways. 9. Keep your garbage in a cabinet or closed tightly. A puppy will be attracted to the smell of garbage and if it man-

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Delmarva Unleashed Winter 2015

12 Use a baby latch on your lower cabinets, particularly any which may have cleaning products, or just remove those products to a higher location. Keep in mind that the above list is a starting point. Common sense should always be applied when attempting to â&#x20AC;&#x153;puppy proofâ&#x20AC;? your home and yard.

HOW DO I KNOW IT’S TIME? by John Maniatty, V.M.D.

his is a frequently asked question and I can honestly say I have never heard an absolute right answer. It is such a personal matter. We as Veterinarians can only listen and discuss the facts. Each person has a unique set of circumstances. What is right for one may not be right for another. Life is not static it is constantly changing and what I may have been able to deal with and do a few years or even months ago, I may not be able to deal with today. The newly retired person, now on a fixed income, worries if they can afford that life-saving surgery. The person that is in and out of the hospital himself, may not feel comfortable asking caretakers to administer insulin to their newly diagnosed diabetic pet. These are true-life circumstances which require tough choices, and ei26

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ther way the decision is made, it is not wrong. Some will judge these people and condemn them without looking past the patient. I have done it, as much as I am ashamed to admit, but have learned a valuable and humbling lesson from it. I judge no one when it comes to euthanizing a sick pet anymore, because I don’t want to make them hurt more than they already do. If the pet is healthy, and circumstances make it impossible to keep it, then we politely decline. Instead we offer solutions of where to go to have the pet adopted. Some people struggle with this decision and push for my input. I will then share some basic criteria I have used in making this decision for my own pets, but always end with “you know your pet best.”

I use the following three simple criteria. First, does the pet act like it always has? I.e. A dog or cat that is always with you now goes to a separate room by itself? Or the reverse, a pet that is aloof is right up next to you seeking attention all the time? Do they or can they greet you when they see you? Old dogs and cats that have developed hearing loss may sleep right through your arrival, but once you are in the house and they see you, do they respond like they always did? Second is the evaluation of the ability to do vital tasks. For cats, do they go to the litter box or for dogs get up to go outside? If they defecate or urinate where they are laying and barely move, I feel that is not much of a quality of life. For many well-trained

dogs, this upsets them terribly, but they just cannot help it. Also included is being able to go to their food and/or water bowl. If you have to bring it to them multiple days in a row, and this is a progressive process which has led to this, then I feel it is time. The third criteria is what I call “the look.” Your pet will look at you and you just know they are tired and done. This always leads me back to “you know your pet best.” We see them for short periods of time when you bring them to the hospital. You see them day in day out and know all that makes them special. That is why it breaks our heart to show such great mercy.

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Should Retirement “Go to the Dogs?” As a Matter of Fact, Yes!

by Margie Klapper

he time has finally come when you can retire, but now you’re afraid you will wither and die in that rocking chair that your colleagues presented you at your retirement party. With nothing to do, no alarm clock to set, no upper management bombarding you with directives, what are you going to do with all of your free time? Rehoboth resident, Sally Waldie, a retired teacher from Pittsburgh, PA, found life after retirement with the help of her lifetime love of dogs. Now, in her 70’s, Sally has loved an assortment of dogs since her 1992 retirement, including a Chinese Pug named Chin Su and her heart dog, Pepsi, a tiny All-American who spent seventeen loyal, happy years in Sally’s life. Pepsi accompanied her everywhere, was obedient, playful, sociable, and “the perfect pup.” When he died, Sally was understandably heartbroken and decided that she could no longer deal 28

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with the sadness that permeated her life from her loss. Pepsi was to be her last dog. Most of us who have owned pets know that feeling all too well. In 2004, after having been dogless for 12 years, Sally allowed another dog into her life as a favor to a dear friend. Her friend asked Sally to adopt her young Miniature Wirehaired Dachshund, with whom the friend’s very large territorial dog was not getting along. Reluctant at first, Sally agreed to welcome Danny Boy into her then two-cat home. However, Danny Boy came with issues that needed to be addressed. It was those issues that became a source of a new kind of life-after-retirement for Sally. To help her deal with Danny’s territorial issues, Sally hired a trainer to work with him. She also took him to obedience and rally classes at various dog clubs in the Delmarva area to work on socializing him and to

give him “a job.” In 2005, she heard about an “Agility is Fun” class offered by one of those clubs. Now, having bonded with Danny and enjoying their growing relationship, Sally decided to sign him up to for a new experience. This introduction to agility changed the pair’s lives dramatically. Fiveyear-old Danny became less fearful and more self-confident! “There was something about agility which helped my Danny Boy overcome his fear of strangers and other dogs because agility was so much fun,” she explained. Another benefit of attending agility classes has been the friends Sally has made along the way. A member of the Georgetown, Blue Heron Agility Dogs of Delaware (BHAD), Sally has held many important positions in the club, and she and Danny have been a welcome pair at both classes and trials.

Competition was not initially a goal for Team Danny Boy. They did not compete in an agility trial until Danny was 8 years old, and Sally at the time was close to 70. For them, their ages didn’t matter. They were ready! He won two first places in his trialing debut, and after six years of competition, he has earned 13 agility titles, his most recent being his second Masters Jumpers Preferred in August, 2014, at over 13 years of age. In class, as well as in the agility ring, Danny lives up to his beloved nickname, “Wonder Wiener.” The time Sally has spent training and competing with this little dog has given her a chance to continue running (a favorite pastime when she was younger), and to exercise her mind. “You have to be continued on pg.32

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The Pet Trust

by Sandy Phillips

nimals have come to play such a significant role in our lives. It’s now a fact that people live more fulfilling, healthier lives, when they live with 30

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pets. Two-thirds of Americans consider pets “family members.” As veterinary medicine advances, our pets are living longer healthier

lives. Many of us have several pets in a lifetime, but what happens to your pet when your time comes? What if you become ill and cannot care for your pet? Who will look after your pet? Legally pets are considered property. To their owners, pets are much more than furniture. We’ve all heard about the very wealthy who leave millions, in trust funds, to their pets. However, planning for your pet is not just for the rich and famous. It’s for anyone who wishes to provide continuing care for their pets and to ensure their pet is not left at the pound. A Statutory Pet Trust does just that, it allows you to name a Pet Guardian to take care of your pets should you become unable to care for them. Now available in both Maryland and Delaware, a Pet Trust provides contingencies and allows you to leave funds to support your pets. It offers a place and direction for your pets during a time of confusion. If you simply leave money in your will to a trusted caregiver and that person is no longer able to care for the pet, the money will go to that person’s heirs or beneficiaries at his or her death and will not be available for the care of the pet. Concurrently, assets in a Pet Trust are not subject to the caregiver’s creditors, marital disputes or bankruptcy. A Pet Trust lasts the duration of the pet’s life. It can provide for a level of health care, exercise and dietary needs. Remaining funds in a Pet Trust after final arrangements have been made for the pet can go to a charity or a family member. Do you really need this paperwork? The answer is most likely, yes. The 31

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informal vows of family members to take care of pets often fall through. They may have insufficient funds, allergies, work conflicts or restrictions imposed by a landlord. When the time comes, they may not actually be able to provide for the pet’s care. Planning can lead to peace of mind. All too often people die or become unable to care for their pets without leaving a Will or making trust provisions for their pets. When no Pet Trust exists, because pets are considered “property,” the court will often decide the fate of your pet. In the absence of a family member willing to take possession of the animal, they are often relegated to a public facility for adoption. Plan ahead for the unforeseen and talk with your legal counsel about your wishes for your pet. Select a caregiver and a trustee. The trustee should be financially astute, responsible and trustworthy to manage and administer your Pet Trust. The pet’s caregiver should be someone who is knowledgeable in the care required for the pet and someone whom is clearly able to provide that care. In fact, the caregiver and trustee are often the same person. However, having two different people involved offers a higher level of security for your pet. One provides direct care for the animal and one manages the funds to do so. Speak with these designees in advance of completing any paperwork, to be sure they are willing to participate in the management of the trust or care of the pet. In today’s world, where things change so quickly, peace of mind can be as valuable as your pet.

Continued from pg. 29 Should Retirement Go To The Dogs? able to think on your feet, memorize the course, use critical-thinking skills and adjust your body motion to fit the situation,” she said. “The physical and mental challenge is an indescribable enhancement to my life, and it’s a partnership like no other. It’s immeasurable.” Agility, or any other dog-related activity like obedience, rally, barn hunt, tracking and dog dancing, for that matter, is a mentally and physically healthy activity which keeps the ol’ retirement rocking chair at home and gives senior people and dogs a reason to enjoy a better quality of life a lot longer. Just ask Sally Waldie and her "Wonder Wiener" Danny Boy!

For more information on local agility classes, visit www.bhaad.org.

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Why Do Dogs Growl? by Brandon Phillips

dog growl is a form of complex dog language which humans and especially dog owners should understand. For example, often times both puppies and adults growl while playing with another dog or their owner; this is very normal behavior. On the flip side, there are times when a growl can be negative or aggressive, and these are the instances we will focus on in this article. Most people associate a growling dog with the times they have approached another person’s residence. This is the dog communicating to his owner that there is an unusual person intruding on their “turf.” This type of communication is completely normal in a healthy adult dog. His job is to alert other members of his pack (family). What if an otherwise very friendly dog all of the sudden starts barking and growling at his owner seemingly unprovoked? As the dog owner, it's important to understand the potential reasons behind this sudden vocalization. Consider it a possibility that your dog is either ill or has been injured. Injuries and/or illness are the most likely causes for a dog to growl at its 33

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owner. If the dog has been seriously injured, signs will be rather apparent. If the signs aren't visible, take your dog to the vet as soon as possible for a general evaluation. There are also those dogs that are just plain grumpy or moody. These are the dogs that are very intolerant of kids and other dogs. These dogs will growl as a warning to leave them alone. They feel threatened by laughter and the boisterous play from children, and they may feel jealous that children often get all of the attention. Normally this sort of behavior is common in smaller breed dogs and not such a problem with larger breeds. Dogs that are behaviorally well rounded usually take life in stride and deliver a growl as a warning that they are not comfortable in their current situation. This helps explain why it's best to respond to a dog’s growl or snaps without confrontation. Underlying most aggression is stress; this stress could be related to a given inci-

dent or a build up over a time period. If you punish your dog for growling or snapping, you’re essentially punishing your dog for letting you know they are close to the their tolerance peak. When in this situation, it’s best to remove your dog from the scene at the first sign of their distress and re-evaluate the surroundings. The concern with punishment to prevent growling is that the next time they are stressed there may be no warning (growling), just reaction. Many dogs growl over territory. They will guard their food bowl, favorite toys or resting places. Some are on edge about large assertive men. Is your dog old and arthritic, or did they just get a shot while at the vets office? Does the growling reflect a sudden change or have you

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seen a problem developing and have chosen to ignore it? Think about what stressed your dog and be conscious towards preventing a similar situation from arising. Growling is a form of communication which can send a clear message to the astute dog owner. Stress affects dogs just as it does humans, and they, like us, have a breaking point. The good news is that they will send us messages about their current state of mind, if we’re aware and listen carefully.

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Winter Doggie Socials

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You’ve asked for it, and we’ve finally made it happen. Delmarva Unleashed will begin home delivery with this issue! Get a full year of your favorite dog magazine for only $16.95. Sign up online at DelmarvaUnleashed.com

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Vol. 5 Issue 5-

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Advance tickets are available online at PoochPalooza.com. Follow us on Facebook for details as they are available.

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