Vol. 6 Issue 4 - Late Summer 2014
Bella Ares
The “Bad Boys”
Jackson
Are They Really?
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Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2014
Koda
Black Dog
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Vol. 6 Issue 4 Late Summer 2014
16 Rip Current Education For You & Your Dog
5 The “Bad Boys” 12 Nutraceuticals What Can I Believe?
20 Bloat 22 Back To School Affects Your Dog too! 24 My Journey — Polo 28 The Rachel Ray $100K Challenge
First State Animal Control - SPCA
30 To Much Of A Good Thing? 34 Bark of the Town 38 Doggie Socials
DU Cover Model Search Contestant
contents
Kryptonite
Delmarva Unleashed Publisher Sandy Phillips Creative Farin Phillips grandlivingmag@verizon.net Contributing Writers Polo Polly Elliott Brandon Phillips Farin Phillips John Maniatty, V.M.D. Jaclyn Wolinski, D.M.V.
Advertising Info: (410)726-7334 Cover: From the “Bad Boys” Cover Call: Clockwise Ares: Pit Bull of Courtney O’Neal Jackson: Pit Bull of Kayvan & Heather Bahrami Bella: German Sheppard of Wayne Young Black Dog: Rottweiler of Rick Slumski Koda: Chow Chow of Kaitlin Harper
Delmarva Unleashed is published six times a year; Winter, Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, and Holiday. It is circulated throughout Delaware, Maryland’s Eastern Shore and onto Virginia’s Eastern Shore 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 2014 ©, 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.
The “Bad Boys”
by Brandon Phillips
Black Dog
T
Jackson
he American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes over 200 breeds of dog, they range in size from that of a small horse to those that will fit in the palm of your hand. While some of these breeds are known for duck hunting or racing, there are a number of breeds known for being “bad.” These “bad boys” are associated with aggression and fear simply because of their breeds. The breed in today’s spotlight is of course the Pit Bulls, closely followed by the Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and Dobermans. These breeds have bad raps due to past documented attacks and dog fighting. Admittedly some breeds were breed to fight or hunt many hundreds of years ago, but in today’s society its more likely the way a dog is raised that can invoke these acts of aggression and allow breeds to live up to societies current view of them. Breed specific legislation (BSL), the act of using laws to prohibit or restrict an animal to be allowed in specific areas or exhibit specific
Koda
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behaviors, based solely on the physical appearance of a dog, exhists in many states. The laws are reflective of the belief that some breeds of dogs are “born bad.” Coupled with this legislation, most homeowners/renters insurance companies will penalize you for having a “bad boy” in your home. This too can be state specific, but if allowed, these companies most likely will stick you with a higher rate do solely to your dog, some breeds will result in a denial to insure as well. The AKC believes that insurers “should determine coverage of a dog-owning household based on the dog’s deeds, not the dog’s breed.” A very reasonable approach, but not the norm. In the insurance industry’s defense, dog bites account for 1/3 of all homeowners claims and the average payout is $30,000 according to the Insurance Information Institute. Maybe the easy money is why people are so quick to sue for a dog bite? Lisa Peterson of the AKC suggests that dogs are “a natural alarm system whose bark may deter Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2014
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intruders and prevent potential theft,” something insurance companies could benefit from and maybe even off set costs with. Also it’s worth keeping in mind that the stereotypical “bad” dog has historically changed with the times. Years ago the Pit Bull was referred to as “America’s Dog.” The American Pit Bull Terrier was the first dog recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC), the second oldest dog registry in the United States. They were described as “rugged athletes and loyal family companions.” The breed was represented by “Stubby,” America’s first war dog. He served his county for 18 months in combat. He was honored by two Presidents, receiving a gold medal and being declared a “hero of the highest caliber,” for the many times he saved his regiment. Stubby could sense incoming artillery fire before the soldiers did and is even credited for capturing a German spy. Helen Keller’s dog was a Pit Bull and you can’t forget “Petey” of the Little Rascals and Buster Brown, both Pits. These descriptions support the fact that it could all be about how they are raised. Any dog can attack, yet the media rarely rally’s around a dog doing something great. We only hear the negative and hence the Pit’s are now getting the bad wrap. In ten years some other poor dog will fall from grace for who knows what. The following is a list of the so called “bad boys” in no particular order with a little description of the breed. Each listed here is indicated by Money Magazine to make your homeowners insurance rates go up. 6
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Ares American Pit Bull Terrier: Once called “America’s Dog,” the Pit was originally bred for baiting bulls and bears. The majority of their breeds were also used for dog fighting in numerous parts of the world. These dogs are known to be courageous and well suited for dog sports. American Staffordshire Terrier, similar to the English Staffordshire Terrier, but typically heavier. The AKC calls them “a people-oriented dog that thrives when made part of the family and given a job to do.” The breed is typically very protective of the family. Bull Terrier: Bull Terriers are descendents from the Bulldog-Terrier and were bred as hunting dogs in the early 19 century. According to the AKC, “the breed loves children, but obedience training is necessary and care must be taken that they don’t get overstimulated around the younger children.” Doberman Pinschers: Famed for their alertness, loyalty and intelligence, this breed of dogs is considered to be the best guard dog. They only attack if they are provoked or sense that their family and their property is in danger.
Black Dog Rottweiler: Rottweilers are believed to have descended from the herding dogs that Roman armies brought with them as they invaded Europe. The AKC calls these dogs “people oriented and that may behave in a clownish manner toward family and friends, but they are also protective of their territory and typically do not welcome strangers until properly introduced.”
Malamutes and Huskies: Siberian Huskies are believed to have originated within the Chukchi Tribe of Siberia and were originally bred as sled dogs. The Malamute is a breed of dog related to the Siberian Husky, this breed requires daily exercises to be happy or else they will become bored, disobedient and destructive. The AKC calls these dogs “strong willed with great predatory instincts. They should be supervised around smaller animals/ children and in the home.”
Bella German Shepard: Prized as police and guard dogs, the German Sheppard originated in 1899 in Karlsruhe, Germany. They are known for being intelligent, confident, alert, vigilant, and fearless. The AKC says “they are very fond of children once a relationship is established.” Koda
Chow Chow: Though they seem to be distant and independent, this breed of dogs requires staunch attention from their owners if they do not want them to grow aggressive.
Mastiff: One of the oldest breeds recognized by the AKC, they are believed to be the dogs most often depicted in Egyptian and Babylonian art. History suggested they were to have been taken to England by the Romans to fight in the arenas. The AKC calls them “powerful yet gentle and loyal companions, best suited for suburban life.” Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2014
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The “Bad Boys” Cover Dogs We had some great entries for the “Bad Boys” Cover Call. Some with detailed stories, others quite simple, but all with a very common thread, gentle and loving dogs. Canines that seem so family oriented. Dogs that totally dispel the stereotype of their breed. We wanted to share a few of the stories of those dogs, as submitted by their families, whom appeared on the cover of this issue. We have included some of their professional shots as well as those submitted by their families.
Ares Ares Ares — My dog's name is Ares. My husband got him while he was in college for forty dollars and a broken dryer. One night while my husband was at school in Nashville he was about to be robbed; a man had a knife to him and Ares fearlessly saved his life. He truly owes his life to his dog. When my husband came home from college Ares fell in love with our niece Alexis. She was little over a year old and would ride on his back like a 8
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horse. When she started to talk she would call him “dog dog.” Alexis has an older sister as well and the two girls dress him up in pretty princess outfits and pretend to paint his nails. Ares is very sweet and loves attention, two years ago Ares was about five at the time, a growth developed on his scrotum and my husband and I took him to the vet. We were scared it was cancer so we had no choice but to have him neutered. He is now almost 7
now and had gained weight because of all the medication he was on, but other than that he is healthy and happy. This past June my husband and I got him a friend named Athena, and he is in love with her. They go everywhere together. Ares is big for a Pit Bull and many people are thrown off by his size and get scared of him. When people do that he has this look of confusion on his face. He adores people and loves to be loved on. If he likes you he'll flea your nose. He loves to go the beach and to my family's farm where he can chase the tractor,and the farm cats as well. Ares loves to have his picture taken; he almost is like a model. His favorite thing is food, when ever I cook he is right by my side watching and waiting for me to drop something.
He will stand in front of the oven and watch the food cook too. Ares is sweet loving and caring. My husband and I don't have any children but we consider Ares our son. If it wasn't for the church we got married in, this past summer, we would have had Ares be our ring bearer. Please choose our son to be a part of the Bad Boys cover shoot. It is the least we can do for him since he had done so much for us.
Koda
Koda 9
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Koda — Hello my Chow Chow is named Koda Bear, she is a purebred female that will be 3 years old in July. Sixty-five pounds and full of love, Koda loves going to the beach, going on the boat, swimming in the bay and running around on Clam Island in Ocean City. We take her down to the Outer Banks, NC. and she loves to sit in the sand bathing in the sun. Her best friends are my cat named Denver, and my mother’s black Lab Aspen. She literally snuggles with both
of the animals and won’t leave their side. Koda loves to cuddle, kiss you in the face and sit in laps of family members. Her favorite foods are steak, bacon, and burgers. She is great in a large social setting, but she will be next to my side if it gets loud. She is always a good sport at wearing crazy head dressings for holidays and cute Christmas, birthday, and Halloween costumes. People think Chow Chows are aggressive, and she is probably the biggest baby I have ever met. She always has to be next to me sleeping, and in my lap or face. She gets excited when I say we are going to Mom-Mom’s house! And while we are in the car she sits so proper you could put a
Jackson
seat belt around her and she wouldn’t budge. (The funny thing is my seat belt notification always comes on when she is riding in the front seat.) My family adores her so much, that my grandmother who is anti-dogs, lets her sit on her couch and will baby-sit her if I need to go run an errand. Koda would be a perfect candidate for the cover of Delmarva Unleashed because as you can see in the pictures attached she is very photogenic, loving, and playful. She loves to smile and be very fluffy. She is the epitome of a real-life Teddy Bear!
Jackson
Jackson- Here is my boy Jackson, he ran away from his previous not-so-good home and landed on my doorstep Christmas Eve 2 years ago. He was traveling with another dog we named Tank, we assume his Dad. Our neighbors kept Tank and we kept Jackson. They are two of the sweetest dogs I have ever met! So much for vicious Pits! 10
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Bella
Black Dog 11 Delmarva Unleashed
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by John Maniatty, V.M.D.
N
Nutraceuticals, What Can I Believe ?
utraceuticals as defined by Miriam Webster’s online dictionary as a specially treated food, vitamin, mineral, herb, etc., that you eat or drink in order to improve your health. Our fascination with nutraceuticals to make us stronger, faster, and fight illnesses has been around for centuries. Ancient Greek and Roman soldiers ate garlic prior to battle and athletic events. Manuscripts for Chinese herbal medicine are estimated from as early as 200-100 BC. It has not been until more recent times, that we have gone from anecdotal testimony to scientific studies that accurately gauge the health benefits we derive from these products. Through these studies we are able to refine what truly is the ingredient in the herb/plant/oil/protein source that creates the benefit. By refining it we can then concentrate it and maximize the gain, or so we think. 12
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Caveat emptor, let the buyer beware, when it comes to nutraceuticals. There is no regulatory board that requires clinical studies to prove a products safety and efficacy; or to analyze it and confirm its ingredients. That is until 2007 and not really ‘till 2010 when it became mandatory, that all manufactures of nutraceuticals meet the FDA’s Dietary Supplement Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs). What the CGMPs do is set a guideline to aid in the consistent manufacturing of dietary supplements and nutraceuticals, so batch one should have the same concentration and quality as batch fifty. By recording the manufacturing data and consistent production methods we should have consistency of product. Also if contamination of product occurs it can be determined when and where.
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By these regulations being implemented we should be able to trust that what is in our supplements is truly in there. Unfortunately this is not always true and independent labs have shown that some products still have less than adequate amounts of what they advertise. For example, three coconut waters were tested by Consumer Labs.com and 2 out of the 3 had significantly less sodium than stated on their label. Coconut water is touted for rehydration, but at these levels, electrolyte replacement would not be adequate. Like Consumer Labs.com the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) acts as a third party lab for animal nutriceuticals. NASC randomly tests products and does an independent audit of the manufacturer facilities. Despite being an independent third party lab, they do charge a membership fee and some see this as a conflict of interest. I see it as a way to have some quality control outside of a company’s self-monitoring. Through this system of double check, we can feel what is stated to be in it the supplement, really is. This however, still does not guarantee what is in there will work. As quoted from the FDA’s website these supplements are not held to the same standards as pharmaceutical drugs: “It does not limit consumers’ access to dietary supplements, or address the safety of their ingredients, or their effects on health when proper manufacturing techniques are used.” This is why it is important on our part to do the research and be sure that clinical studies have been done to show the combinations and dosing is correct. This is not a requirement for nutraceuticals to be sold but the good ones have done it.
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Nutraceuticals that have only testimonials but no clinical studies of their specific product, tend to be worthless. In clinical studies the placebo group always has a small percentage of success. Testimonial products use this small percentage of success to tout their product despite its majority failure rate. When choosing a nutraceuticals read the ingredients list carefully. Sometimes you can have ingredients that are similar, but research has proven they do not work the same. For example, glucosamine sulfate is less bioavailable than glucosamine hydrochloride. You would have to take about 1/3 more glucosamine sulfate to get the same results as with glucosamine hydrochloride. When choosing a supplement with multiple ingredients be sure they all reach therapeutic levels, if not further supplementation with individual ingredients maybe needed. Prior to starting any nutraceuticals with your pet be sure to check with your Veterinarian.
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Rip Current Education For You & Your Dog by Brandon Phillips
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Growing up at the beach, of course lots of people took their dogs to the beach, just as they do today. One day a beautiful dog disappeared into the Ocean in Dewey, in what many thought was a rip current. For those of you with dogs that enjoy the Ocean be aware that they are just as much at risk as their humans in getting caught in a Rip. It’s our job to assess the Ocean’s status to be sure they don’t fall victim as this dog did. Unfortunately we can’t teach them to swim parallel to shore. —Sandy
Where and Why Rip Currents Form
C
oastal scientists have been investigating rip currents for more than 75 years. This research has been conducted through field observations, measurements, laboratory measurements, wave tank experiments, computer and numerical modeling. The mechanics of rip current development are complex and involve interactions between waves and currents, waves and water levels, waves and the shape of the near shore bottom (bathymetry), as well as wave-wave interaction. Rip currents can occur along any coastline that has breaking waves. Scientific investigations of wave and current interactions along the coast have shown that rip currents are likely present on most beaches every day as a component of the complex pattern of near shore circulation. As waves travel from deep to shallow water, they eventually break near the shoreline. As waves break, they generate currents that flow in both the offshore (away from the coast) and the alongshore directions. Currents flowing away from the coast are called rip currents. Along all coastlines, near shore circulation cells may develop when waves break strongly in some locations and weakly in others. These
weaker and stronger wave breaking patterns are most often seen on beaches with a sand bar and channel system in the near shore zone. A rip current forms as the narrow, fastmoving section of water travels in an offshore direction. Rip currents can also result from a wave's natural variability or when a current traveling along the shoreline encounters a structure such as a groin or jetty and is forced offshore. Rip current strength and speed varies. This variability makes rip currents especially dangerous to uninformed beachgoers. Rapid fluctuations or pulses in wave groups can quickly generate rip currents with velocities measured up to eight feet per second.
Waves, Currents and Water Level Variations As waves break along a shoreline or over a sandbar, an increase in water level occurs. This increase in water level is known as “set-up.” The increase in water level is especially evident as waves break over a sandbar, resulting in an increased set-up of water on the landward side of the bar. Thus, waves breaking over a sandbar can result in mass transport of water Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2014
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Photo courtesy NOAA
Rip Current- notice the difference in the breakers?
between the bar and the shoreline. There is usually a difference in set-up (water heights) between the bar, where the waves are breaking strongly, and the channel between bars, where little or no wave breaking occurs. One of the ways this water returns seaward is through rip currents, which flow seaward against the incoming waves. This seaward flow of water typically occurs through a break in the sandbar, where water is channelized into a narrow current. Protecting your family, including your furry family members is critical. The following are suggestions that may help protect everyone.
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1. Never swim at an unguarded beach. (The unfortunate situation here is that most often dogs are not permitted on guarded beaches in our area. The next best thing is to never swim alone.) 2. If you encounter a rip current, STAY CALM! Try not to panic, and focus on floating by lying on your back and treading water. Remember it’s easier to float than to remain perpendicular to the surf. 3. Don’t fight the current. If necessary, ride it out. Keep in mind that the strenght of the rip will eventually dissipate. 4. Swim parallel or at an angle to shore. 5. If a lifeguard is visable, wave your arms and yell for help!
Spotting a Rip Current
•
Rip currents are sometimes difficult to spot. However, with the aid of some basic information and a little practice, even a lay person can learn how to identify and avoid being caught in a Rip. Some of the rip current indicators include: • Choppy or “exicted” water that is located in a channel • Debris moving away from the beach • Discolored or murky water allowing for the identification of a distinct channel that terminates off shore.
•
If you observe a person caught in a rip current: • Look for a lifeguard to get help.
If there is no life guard on duty, call 911. Look for a floation device such as a raft, boogie board or even a cooler. Wade no more than knee deep in the water and toss the flotation device to the victum. Throw the object in front of the swimmer. Don’t toss it behind or to the side. The moving current will take it to the person if tossed in front of them.
Because recusing your dog will be difficult, the best protection is prevention. Have your pup wear a well fitted lifevest. Also, be sure to scan the water frequently for the potential of a rip to be forming and move the family to another area or call it a day while everyone is safe. — Safety guidelines provided by NOAA.
Jaclyn Wolinski, DVM
Chiropractic Acupuncture Full Service House Calls By Appointment Only 410-726-4145 www.drwvet.com
Bloat
W
ith the recent Facebook post that told of one lady’s experience with her dog and the dangers of bloat, there have been many misconceptions about the topic. How does it happen? Why does it happen? How can it be prevented? The real question is, what is the reality of this condition that could potential threaten your dog’s life? The medical condition “Bloat” actually refers to, two different conditions that could potentially occur. The first is “volvulus,” which is when the stomach distends and then rotates on the long axis. The second is “gastric dilation,” where the stomach distends with gas and fluid. Gastric dilation can occur with or without volvulus. If volvulus does occur, it causes a gastric obstruction that will prevent the dog from being able to vomit or burp. If gas is unable to escape then it will begin to ferment within the dog’s stomach, eventually causing necrosis of the stomach wall. This can lead to a number of serious problems including bacterial septicemia, cardiac arrhythmias, peritonitis, shock, and even death. 20
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by Farin Phillips Bloat can occur in any dog, at any age. There does seem to be a correlation with Large-breed dogs that have deep chests. Those breeds include Great Dane, German Shepard, Labrador Retriever, Great Pyrenees, Boxer, Collie, and the Standard Poodle. Smaller dogs are rarely affected, with the exception of Dachshunds or others that are deep-chested. Now, the article that has been circulating claimed that the bloat was due to the dog drinking ice cold water. This can cause bloat, but it is not the only reason for it to occur. The dog may have just had a large meal; then may have drunk a large amount of water. Water of any temperature before or after a lot of activity can trigger bloat. The typical signs of bloat include salivation, retching, dry-heaving, and enlarged abdomen, restlessness, and pacing. The abdomen may also be tender to the touch. Unfortunately, not all cases of bloat will present with these “typical” symptoms. One early sign of bloat is that the abdomen may begin to feel tight, while your dog appears to be lethargic and uncomfortable. Early on it can be difficult to distinguish
between dilatation and volvulus. The signs of impending shock include pale gums and tongue, a rapid heartbeat, weak pulse, labored breath, and collapse. If your dog is able to vomit or burp, then the problem is more than likely not due to volvulus. If you think that there is a chance that your dog has the early symptoms of bloat, you need to get them to the vet as soon as possible. If the problem is gastric dilatation, then it can be relieved by passing a long rubber tube into the stomach, which will allow that built up gas to be released. If it turns out to be volvulus, then emergency surgery will be needed. The stomach and the spleen will need to be repositioned, or the spleen may need to be removed. Either way, bloat needs to be caught in the early stages, since it should be treatable.
Preventing Bloat
Dogs that experience a mild form of bloat that is able to resolve itself without surgical treatment can have a very high chance of having another episode. Here are a few tips to help prevent that a reoccurrence. • Do not feed your dog from a raised bowl • Avoid foods that have fat as one of the first four ingredients • Avoid foods that contain citric acid • Divide the daily food into three equal/smaller meals • Restrict access to water before and after a meal • Don’t let them drink large amounts of water at once • Don’t exercise your dogs on a full stomach
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2. In preparation for that first day of school, every once in a while, pretend you are leaving and don’t. Pick up your bag, go out the door and then come back in. They will soon learn to relax when you leave. 3. Leave behind an old t-shirt for them to cuddle up with.
Back To School Affects Your Dog Too! V
eterinary Education Network (VEN) offers ideas to help your dog when the kids go back to school. VEN reminds us that while the kids are getting prepared to go back to school its important not to forget about the family dog. It’s going to be a big change for the dog that is used to the kids being home all day. All of a sudden he maybe alone, there is less activity and your dog may feel lonely or sad. This can lead to destructive behavior. Start preparing early and when school starts your dog will be ready. Here are a few helpful hints for you and the kids to help the dog adjust. 1. Don’t make a big deal about the kids leaving. If you get very emotional the dog will pick up on it. A quick “see ya” when everyone leaves is what your dogs needs to relax and wait for their return. 22
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4. Leave things for your dog to do while the kids are gone. Keep them busy with interactive toys. Dogs who have toys to play with tend to be less bored. Most destruction is a result of boredom. 5. Go for a walk when everyone gets home. It’s quality time together and good exercise for all. Invite a friend, human or dog, along for companionship. 6. When it’s time for homework, have the kids read to your dog because they love the attention. 7. Groom your dog, brush him often and talk to him while you are brushing him. 8. Include them in your games, soccer, basketball, etc. It’s great exercise for all of you. Take them to the field whenever it’s permissible. VEN’s mission is dedicated to helping DVM’s achieve their professional goals while improving the quality of life for people, the planet and pets through quality education and industry. Go to www.VeterinaryEducationNetwork.com for more information.
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My Journey
by Polo
P
olo here! I know some of you have been following my story on Facebook, but everything has been so exciting the past few months that I just can’t stop telling people about it. I was born in Cairo, Egypt in December 2012 and had a pretty good life going. Then one day, my human’s gardener thought it would be fun to hit me on my back with a stick. I think it was a rake, but all I know for sure is that it hurt. Suddenly my back legs did not work, so my humans did not want to keep me. Unfortunately, Egypt is way behind with regard to animal rights and only a very few understand the value of animals, especially those of us with disabilities. I was very sad, but then some wonderful women helped me out. I began living with Bahra Fahmy, my first foster mom. She had other dogs she cared for; I loved running around with them. My “gimpy” back legs did not stop me one bit. But Bahra and her friend, Laila Fayek, knew that I was not likely to find a forever home in Egypt. That is when Laila sent an e-mail asking Golden Retriever Rescue, Education and Training (GRREAT) in Merrifield, VA, to take me, and if they could get me to the U.S. (GRREAT serves MD, DE, Northern VA and a portion of the PA areas.) Bahra and Laila loved me so much that they knew they had to let me go for a chance at a better life. 24
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Eagles Nest Road, Ocean City
The GRREAT Board discussed my situation and, although I was waaay out of their normal service area, they agreed to take me. So, on Saturday, December 14, I boarded something called an airplane with a “flight parent” volunteer and left Cairo for New York. It was a very long trip. While Egypt is pretty warm, when we finally landed at JFK, there was white stuff falling from the sky. It was cold and wet. I was told it was snow! By this time I was pretty confused, but some really friendly people met me at the airport. They had driven from a place called Delaware in the nasty weather and waited hours for my delayed plane. They told me that they were Scott and Kelly, my new foster parents. I was sad to say goodbye to Bahra, Laila, and my other Egyptian friends, but boy did I get lucky! Driving through the snow was pretty scary, but we finally arrived at “home.” They gave me a welcome to the USA bath and wrapped me up in blankets to keep me warm. Then I had another bath because they found some bugs on me. My long trip and all the excitement had me totally bushed. I slept on a memory foam dog bed that night and was so comfy. When I woke up, I met all my new foster brothers and sisters. I felt as though I fit right in. Then we went out to play in the yard. It was like I was back with my Egyptian buddies. Since that first day I have learned to use my Walking Wheels to get around in the back yard. I sure can run fast with them. My foster mom has made me a wardrobe of socks to protect my back legs, snow pants so that I can play in the white stuff, tee shirts 26
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with my name on them, and some covers for my diapers. I’m especially grateful for the snow pants because I sure have had a lot of chances to wear them since arriving here…I love playing in the snow! I like it so much that one day my foster dad let me out without the snow pants. Although he did not let me play too long and dried me off in front of the fire, my foster mom grounded us both! It was worth it though. I had soooo much fun!! (It also gave me time to write this article for you.) My first Christmas was super. I had my very own ornament for the tree. I also got a collar with Egyptian designs on it so that I would have a little something of my home country, and I got to celebrate it all with my awesome foster parents and siblings. You are probably wondering about my medical condition. GRREAT’s Chief’s Fund paid for me to have an MRI. I don’t really understand all this, but here is what I’ve been told. The MRI showed that my spinal cord has atrophied and the “damage is permanent and complete.” There is nothing that can be done surgically to help me, but the orthopedic specialist said that acupuncture and/or physical therapy might be an option to help with my quality of life. While this was not the news I was hoping for, I am still a happy pup. I now go to physical therapy (PT) at the Veterinary Specialty Center of Delaware where I do PT and hydrotherapy twice a week, as well as get acupuncture. (I also do PT at home, but that is not as much fun.) What a great PT Team! They take such good care of me! I think they like me. Thank you
Thank you Dr. Natalie, David, and Amanda…you guys rock the therapy world! Thanks also to my specialty doctors, Dr. Cafone and Dr. Groman who have provided tireless care and treatment. I think they like me too. GRREAT’s SimileFinale Fund helps pay for my treatments. I have had a few other health issues that have been treated. I have a parasite that I got from eating an African beetle in Egypt. (It didn’t even taste very good.) It’s called Spirocerca Lupi. The specialist feels we caught this in time before it had the chance to become a serious issue. I also had a skin infection that was treated with antibiotics. Then one day my butt was really swollen! I had to visit the vet to have it drained of fluid, but I’m on the mend now. When all my “bugs” are cleared up, I will be neutered. That doesn’t sound like it’s as much fun as swimming and acupuncture! In spite of all this drama, I am a very happy and energetic pup, as you would expect of a one-year-old Golden. I have no trouble getting around with or without my “wheels.” I love everyone, especially folks at GRREAT. One of the exciting things I have done is go to the GRREAT Annual Meeting in January. I got to meet the Board and other members who attended. I wish more of you had been there so that I could say thank you for giving me a chance for a “fur-ever home” in the USA. If you want to follow my progress, please “Like” me on Facebook. I’m Polo@grreat.org. You can also find updates by joining the GRREAT Facebook group. Also, I will be undergoing PT for the foreseeable future. I really like to swim! You can support my treatments by contributing to the Simile-Finale fund or the GRREAT general fund at www.grreat.org. Just click on Donate Now. I have only been here a few months, but I already feel so welcome and at home in America. (Did you notice that the USA Winter Olympic Team even put my name on their sweaters?) Thank you so much for “rescuing” me! —Love and kisses, Polo
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First State Animal Control-SPCA The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA) has geared up for the 2014 ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge, where a total of $600,000 in prize grants is up for grabs to help shelters save more homeless cats and dogs. The 50 contestants will work to save more animals during the months of June, July and August 2014 than they did over the same three-month period in 2013. Last year’s competing shelters saved more than 56,000 cats and dogs during the contest, an increase of 12,050 over the same period in 2012. “If you’re at all considering making a pet part of your family, then this contest – which will feature major adoption events and promotions in communities across the country for the next three months – is the perfect time to do just that,” says Bert Troughton, 28
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2014
vice president of Community Outreach at the ASPCA. “We’re gearing up for what we hope will be another recordbreaking year, and the public will be an integral part of this life-saving mission.” Locally the First State Animal Center - SPCA, in Camden Delaware, is competing in the competition and needs your support! The ASPCA and Rachael Ray will award a $100,000 grand prize to the shelter contestant that achieves the greatest increase in lives saved during this three-month period. The contestant that does the best job of engaging its community members in helping to save more animals will win $25,000. Those organizations that do the best in their divisions will be eligible for between $10,000 and $25,000 in additional grants. In total, $600,000 in grant funding will be awarded for
increases in animal lives saved, as well as a photo contest and general participation. All her life, Rachael Ray has been an advocate for animals and a supporter of animal welfare groups. Her love for animals and for her pit bull, Isaboo, inspired her to create a pet food called Nutrish® to raise money for animals in need. Ray donates her proceeds from the sale of Nutrish® to organizations like the ASPCA so they can implement programs like the $100K Challenge and support shelters and animal organizations around the country. The ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge is a ground-breaking contest that challenges animal shelters across the country to come up with innovative ways to engage their communities and get more homeless cats and dogs into loving homes. For information about the 2014 ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge, please visit www.aspca.org/100K. Here’s how you can help the First State Animal Center - SPCA. • • • • • •
Sponsor an adoption event at your place of business. Volunteer with them. Hold a fund-raising event, this could be organized to coincide with an adoption event. Invite the shelter to speak at your civic organization, place of worship or at your club. Give a cat or dog a fur-ever home. Spread the word about the challenge.
For more information on how to help them meet the challenge, contact Lisa Chase at 302-943-6032.
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Too Much of a Good Thing?
by Jaclyn Wolinski, DVM
M
ost of us know that it’s not a good thing to let our dogs drink a whole bowl of water when they’re overheated from running or playing, but what if your old dog or cat starts draining the water bowl faster than usual? Drinking more water should be good for them, right? Well, the water itself isn’t a problem, but the increased intake could indicate a more serious issue. Increased thirst, or polydipsia, may be an indicator of many common diseases in older pets, including Diabetes, Cushing’s disease, kidney disease, liver disease, and hyperthyroidism (in cats). Many people recognize that increased thirst can be a sign of Diabetes, but did you know that there are two kinds of Diabetes in pets? Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the kind most of us are familiar with. Patients with DM are unable to produce enough insulin to regulate their blood sugar. This 30
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excess blood sugar, or glucose, seeps into the urine through the kidneys and pulls water with it, in an attempt to dilute out the sugar. The pet urinates larger volumes of water and has to drink larger volumes of water to stay hydrated. Other symptoms of Diabetes include changes in appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. The treatment for this type of Diabetes is usually daily injections of insulin to help regulate the blood glucose levels. The other kind of Diabetes is called Diabetes Insipidus and is much less common, but can also cause polydipsia. It has nothing to do with insulin and blood sugar at all. Instead, it involves a problem with a hormone called ADH (antidiuretic hormone) and is treated with a synthetic version of that hormone as an eye drop. Maybe not as well known, but just as common a cause of increased thirst is hyperadrenocorticism, or Cushing’s
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disease. Cushing’s disease is a problem with the adrenal glands causing over-production of cortisol, which is a natural steroid in the body. Typical side effects of steroids, whether produced in the body or administered as a medical treatment, are increased thirst, increased urination, and increased appetite (PD/PU/PP). Increased panting, muscle loss, hair loss, and pendulous belly (“pot belly”) are other possible signs of Cushing’s disease. If the disease is caused by an adrenal tumor, then that adrenal gland must be removed. Otherwise, the condition may be carefully managed with medications. Those medications unfortunately have the potential to “over treat” the problem and shut down the adrenal glands entirely. This is called hypoadrenocorticism, or Addison’s disease, and can also cause increased thirst. Symptoms may wax and wane, but can also include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. It must be managed with daily medications for the rest of the pet’s life. If your dog is an intact female, i.e. not spayed, then pyometra is another possible cause of polydipsia. This is a potentially life-threatening infection of the uterus and may require radiographs or an ultrasound to help diagnose. If your dog has a thick, smelly vaginal discharge and is lethargic and inappetant (not eating), then seek veterinary care immediately. The only definitive way to treat pyometra is with an emergency spay surgery. Several different kinds of kidney disease and liver disease can also cause increased water intake. Failure of either organ, infection or inflammation are possibilities. Even a urinary 32
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tract infection can cause a pet to want to drink more water. Depending on the type and stage of the disease, other symptoms can vary widely from fever, lethargy, jaundice, painful belly, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and inappetance. Lab tests, such as blood work and a urinalysis are needed to differentiate all of these diseases. For you cat lovers out there, Diabetes mellitus, kidney disease, and liver disease can affect cats as well. Cats can also suffer from hyperthyroidism, which often causes them to drink more water and urinate larger volumes. They may eat voraciously, but still lose weight. You may also notice hyperactivity, vomiting, and/or diarrhea. Hyperthyroidism can be diagnosed easily with blood work, so please consult your veterinarian if your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms… and make note of how often you’re filling your pet’s water bowl. If their activity level doesn’t account for the amount of water they’re drinking, then it may be time for a check-up!
Got a Ticket? www.PoochPalooza.com
Doggie Socials
Bella, “Bad Boys” Shoot, ...so bored.
We took over Socials this issue to share with you some of the notto-print, (but print anyway), shots from some of our shoots. So very much personality shows in these candids, even the DU Canine’s have their moments!
From a Wicomico Humane promo shoot, notice the tongue? Surely it’s because we asked her to wear goggles on her head. Never be afraid to bring your dog to a Shoot, particularly for fear they will not behave for the camera. While we never know just what to expect from any dog, you can see we take it all in stride and chuckle about the shots that just show true personality. Please join us at Pooch Palooza, Oct 4, 2014 at Frontier Town Campground for the only Delmarva Unleashed Open Cover Shoot of the year. While we will be shooting for Holiday 2014, we have been known to tuck great shots away for other covers and for articles. You just never know..., at the very least, you will have a professional photo of your dog and have helped support the Worcester County Humane Society!
Mr. Darcy, Cover Shoot, he’s just had enough.
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Bark
of the Town
The Way The Tail Wags
Dogs As Gods? The Egyptians were one of the first civilizations to keep household pets. In Ancient Egypt some animals were seen as incarnations of the gods, and family pets had a special place in the home. They were often mummified and buried with their owners after they died. Remaining human family members would often shave their eyebrows to express their grief. While the Ancient Egyptians fondness for cats is well known, they also revered hawks, ibise, dogs, lions and baboons. The Egyptians are also among the first to use canines to assist in Police work. 34
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Findings reported in the Cell Press Journal of Current Biology show that dogs recognize and respond differently when their fellow canines wag to the right than they do when they wag to the left. This new finding shows that dogs, like humans, have asymmetrically organized brains, indicating that the left and right sides of the brain play different roles. This study was conducted by the same group of Italian scientist that have observed that dogs will wag to the right upon seeing their humans, for example, indicating a positive emotion and to the left when meeting an unfriendly dog, expressing negative emotion. The studies continue to determine if there are practical uses of tail wagging observation in communicating better with our pets.
Attention Beach Going Dogs! Did you know that salt water can be dangerous?
Warning The Sidewalk Is Hot! Hot asphalt and hot sidewalks can pose a real danger to our fur-kids. When the temperature soars, surfaces heat up and a dogs pads can burn quickly. “Dogs have fibrous pads, so they able to tolerate more heat or cold that we humans can on our own feet,” says Dr. Carol McConnell, Vice President of underwriting and Chief Medical Officer for VPI Pet Insurance. “That being said, it’s best to pay more attention to your pet’s behavior than to the temperature outside: Is your dog prancing while standing or being light-footed, raising one paw at a time in quick succession?” She continues. You could equate the dance to how you feel when at the beach trying to reach the surf on hot sand. It’s not a pleasant feeling for feet or paws. Take extra care to be sure your dog doesn’t suffer burns or choose an alternative route for everyone’s safety.
Dogs don’t know that excessive intake of salt water can cause severe hypernatremia or salt poisoning. Initial signs include vomiting and diarrhea, but it can progress into lack of coordination, seizures, depression and in severe cases brain swelling. The condition requires veterinary attention and is typically treated with IV fluids. Pet parents can avoid this summertime health hazard by being sure to provide plenty of fresh water while at the beach, near the bay in simply on the boat. But beware, your pooch doesn’t need ice water, that can trigger other health concerns. Tepid water is best. Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2014
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Baywater Animal Rescue Receives Record Gift From Students Sandy Hill Elementary National Honor Society collected over 400 items in just one week for the animals at Baywater Animal Rescue. National Honor Society leader Julie Garner said, "The students were all so excited to show off their hard work, and they loved the chance to meet some of the dogs they were helping." Each Honor Society member was assigned a homeroom class to explain the drive and to encourage students to bring in items for the animals. This was a great competition for the students. They made posters, showed off pictures, and explained what exactly Baywater Animal Rescue does as a No Kill shelter. The winning class brought in just over 100 items and earned a pizza party! All of the students pitched in to stuff the rescue’s van full of great stuff. Baywater Animal Rescue's staff, volunteers and especially the animals appreciate all of the hard work these students did right before heading into summer break and they look forward to more events with the students next school year.
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Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2014
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One Ticket Does It All Get Your Advance Combo Ticket today at www.PoochPalooza.com The Advance Combo Ticket admits 2 humans and 2 dogs. It includes admission to Pooch Palooza; one chance, per dog, in the Tennis Ball Lottery, a competition photo for the Delmarva Unleashed Cover Model Search for a chance to have your dog on the cover of DU; Costume Contest, Seminars and a whole day of fun with your dog! It’s only $21. Price at the gate is $5 per human. $2 per dog. Model Search $10 and Tennis Ball Lottery $2 per chance. Costume Contest is FREE
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Fish Tales, Because I Can Go Too!
We’ll behaved leashed dogs welcome! Located between 21st and 22nd Street
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410-289-0990
