Delmarva Unleashed Mar April 2012

Vol. 4 Issue 2 - March/April 2012

Unleashed

Complimentary

Delmarva

™

Bark of the Town

DU Cover

Model Search Registration is OPEN!

Seizures

On Pins & Needles The DU Canine Staff Vacations at

South Paw Pet Resort

contents

Delmarva Unleashed A Supplement of Grand Living Magazine

Vol. 4 Issue 2 March/April 2012

Publisher Sandy Phillips

3 I Think My Pet Just Had A Seizure!

Associate Publisher Farin Phillips

4 Bark of the Town

Editor Lou Ann Hill

8 On Pins & Needles

Creative Sandy Phillips Farin Phillips

11 Coat Care

Contributing Writers

pg 6

Anne Flood, D.V.M Stephen Frolich John Maniatty, V.M.D. Advertising Info: (410)726-7334 Cover: Weber, of South Paw Pet Resort, enjoys a romp along the pond.

Weber & Gabby, Oh the fun at South Paw Pet Resort!

W W

hat to do with the dogs while on vacation? So many people ask that question. If you’re reading DU, you already are a dog person and treat your canine like family. So the question really becomes, where do you leave the furry kids? There are still kennels around, but the days of leaving a dog in a confinement that makes you feel like a heel when you leave, are quickly falling by the wayside. The day of the Pet Resort is here. Pet Resorts have taken the guilt out of leaving your pet. Ok, maybe there is still some. But at a Pet Resort there are often as many amenities as your resort or cruise ship! There are things like Yappy Hour and spa treatments to just begin the list.

Recently the DU canine staff vacationed at South Paw Pet Resort, in Willards. Post vacation, we picked up happy, well adjusted dogs. They came home the picture of health, kind of like they had vacationed at a “spa resort” all week, and with clean bedding! One less load of laundry, post holiday was much appreciated! You could also clearly see their stay included lots of attention and love.

They were delighted to see us, but by no means trying to run over us to get to the door. It was a great feeling.

They did so much while we traveled; yet actually I think they were better “de-stressed” than we were. It was such a great experience, we wanted to share some of their vacation with you. If you’re looking for a warm and loving place for your own furry family, you should know that South Paw Pet Resort is highly approved by both the DU canine and human staff.

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Sandy

I Think My Pet Just Had A Seizure!

John Maniatty, V.M.D.

I

t can come out of the blue, your dog or cat is sitting there and then their eyes roll back, jaw quivers, and legs go straight and start to paddle. This is what most people think of when we mention seizures. But seizures come in various forms from small focal muscle twitching like an eyelid, lip, or leg (petit mal) to collapsing and being limp (atonic) to the full body muscle spasms (grand mal). They all result from abnormal electrical activity in the cerebrum. These can last from seconds to minutes.

Sometimes as soon as they come out of one episode they go into another, status epilepticus, and this can be life threatening. Some simple steps can be done to help protect your pet during and after the seizure.

Step one is to not restrain your pet, but rather place pillows around them and remove any furniture they could bump into while thrashing. You can place your hand gently on them, but once the seizure is over, remove your hand and wait until they are mentally clear enough to respond to your voice. In the period right after the seizure they are disoriented, feel threatened and may bite. They may lash-out as a sense of self-protection.

Steps two is time and record how long the seizure lasts and the post seizure effects. Most people who come into my office with a pet who has had a seizure tell me it felt like forever, but guess at the length of time the shaking and trembling took; ictal phase.

By knowing the length of the event, we can determine if they are progressively getting worse or becoming stable. Also we will be able to tell if medication is needed, or if it’s already helping. In the post seizure period, post ictal, there may be disorientation, weakness, panting, and sometimes blindness. Monitoring during this period will allow you to see what symptoms present and help protect your pet from hurting themselves.

Step three is to call your Veterinarian. They maybe able to help determine the underlying cause of these seizures. To do this your Vet will have to get a thorough history; (This is also where step two is important); do a complete physical exam, and run

blood work to determine if any underlying electrolyte or organ problem is occurring. Depending on the results they may recommend a further work up by a board certified Veterinary neurologist or start on your pet on anti-seizure medication.

We usually do not start on anti-seizure medication unless the ictal phase lasts longer than 5 minutes or the seizures are occurring more than one in a two-month period. Medications do have side effects and in the long run can be worse than the actual disease.

The most common medications used are phenobarbital and/or potassium bromide. Phenobarbital comes in a tablet or liquid form and is usually given every 12 hours. The biggest side effects can be sedation, agitation, anxiety, increased appetite, and increased drinking. The liver breaks down the majority of the drug so it can be excreted from the body. Over time this extra workload on the liver can cause damage to it. That is why, in young dogs, potassium bromide is preferred. Potassium bromide comes in liquid or capsule form. It is given one to two times a day. It can be used alone or in addition to phenobarbital. When used alone it requires a loading dose over the first 2-5 days. The biggest side effects are sedation, increased drinking, increased urination, vomiting, anorexia, and/or constipation. The drug is removed by excretion by the kidneys. Potassium bromide takes longer then phenobarbital to reach steady state levels in the blood. For phenobarbital we check blood levels in 3-4 weeks while with potassium bromide it is done in 4-6 weeks. If these meds do not control the seizures we can then try Felbamate, Levetricam (keppra), or Zonisamide.

These meds require 3 times a day administration and are expensive. This is why they are not used initially.

Seizures can be intimidating, but if you follow these steps, they usually can be controlled. “Controlled� does not mean that seizures stop completely, even though this is what we strive for, but to lessen the frequency. Most pets can live a happy and normal life with treatment. www.DelmarvaUnleashed.com

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Bark of the Town Good Dog!

Much like children, dogs respond to positive enforcement for doing good, rather than negative reprimands or punishment for lack of compliance. Use praise, a nice pat on the back or a small treat for reinforcement of the desired behavior. Work on basic commands like, sit, stay, etc...for 15-20 minutes a day for best results.

Dog Emotion Rabbits as Easter Gifts Big ears, wiggly noses, and big fluffy cotton tails.

Rabbits can be hard to resist. Domestic rabbits can make great Easter gifts, but there are some things to consider before you buy.

It’s never a good idea to purchase a pet on impulse. You should educate yourself on proper feeding, care, shelter requirements, etc...Otherwise, you may not have a positive pet experience.

Gifting rabbits to an unprepared recipient can often be a stressful situation. Particularly if you give a rabbit to a child of unsuspecting parents. Be sure the family has time for the rabbit. Rabbits are very social creatures and will require daily interaction. Well cared for, rabbits can live over 10 years and that’s a commitment!

According to the Humane Society of America, rabbits are not generally good fits for young children. Rabbits require safe, gentle handling and a quiet environment. Since they are prey animals, they startle easily and are often very stressed around young children. It’s better to wait until children are older to give the gift of a rabbit.

Also consider the fact that while children will be excited initially, they tend to move onto other things quickly and the pet will ultimately become the responsibility of the parent. If you gift a rabbit or any pet, be sure the parents are involved in the decision making process. The family should be prepared for the expenses that come with the day-to-day, and medical care for the pet. Communication will ensure the family and the pet have a great experience.

4 Delmarva Unleashed www.DelmarvaUnleashed.com

Purina recently conducted a survey of pet owners in New Zealand and discovered that over 30% thought their pet communicated feelings better than their spouse/partner.

More than 70% of those that responded thought dogs had human-like emotions.

Labradors on Top The American Kennel Club announced that its nationwide registration statistics show that the Labrador Retriever is once again the most popular breed in America. This is the Lab's 20th consecutive year at the top.

The second most popular breed is the German Shepherd, followed by the Yorkshire Terrier.

Two other hunting dogs are near the top of the list. The Beagle in fourth and the Golden Retriever fifth.

The Wicomico County Humane Society Presents...

18th Annual Cause for Paws Saturday May 12

• • • • • •

10-1 at Winterplace Park

Pledge sheets will be available at the shelter by March 31 or online at www.wicomicohumane.org

food craft vendors pet costume contest raffles K-9 demonstrations live remote from Cat Country Radio

• Help support 1000’s of animals that come through our door every year!

• Walk with your friends • Form a team at work Form a team with your family • Collect donations • Walk with or without a pet

• $100 gift card to Olive Garden for the top team • $50 gift card to Olive Garden for most creative team t-shirt

For more information contact the Wicomico County Humane Society

410-749-7603

Ocean City Ocean View Animal Hospital Animal Hospital Quality, climate controlled lodging with 24 hour care.

John Maniatty V.M.D. Anne Flood, D.V.M. MaryHelen Staruch, V.M.D. Quality Medicine with a Caring Heart Available M-Th. 24 hrs.

Open Fri. & Sat.

• Boarding • Bathing Because your pets deserve the best.

410-835-BARK (2275) www.southpawwillards.com

8004 Burnt Mill Road Willards, MD

Dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets & pocket pets.

410.213.1170

11843 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City. MD

www.oceancityvet.com

302.539.2273

118 Atlantic Ave., Suite 101, Ocean View, DE

www.oceanviewanimalhospital.com

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Denise gets lots of love from (left-right) Marley, Dealy, Twila & Tucker.

The DU Canine Staff Vacation at South Paw Pet Resort Vacation excerpts…from Max Check in – The three of us were a little uncertain what to expect when we first arrived. We were greeted by new people, new smells, and of course other dogs. Minutes after arriving we were checked into our large suite; a large private run with 3 Kundra beds. Within a few minutes, the new people reappeared and we got our first tour of the outside play area. We were left to run around for a while and explore the new surroundings. “Humm..., lot’s of room for ball playing,” said Marla. “I hope Mom has a ball in the car.” That’s when Max said “Where did our family go?” You don’t think they left us do you? OMG what were they thinking?”

A short while later, back in our suite, the guy called John came to visit. He opened the door, sat on the floor by our beds and started talking to us. We could tell by his kind words he sensed we were a little uncomfortable with the new place. Maybe it was the special treats or the belly rubs, but before long everything seemed to be ok. We also had another visitor, Denise, she also sat in the floor with us and gave us treats. Marla said, “I think we are going to like it here,” and Darcy and I agreed. It was official, the DU canine staff had settled in, at South Paw Pet Resort. Tails wagging, and with very apparent smiles, a good vacation was already underway. Oh, I did ask John to text the family and let them know we liked it at South Paw, I know how they worry.

Day 1 “Yawwwwn..., wonder what’s for breakfast,” said Darcy.

Denise was already at the door with our tray and had prepared our breakfast just like Mom does at home. After breakfast in bed, we enjoyed a romp in the yard for at least a ½ hour, then back to the suite to lounge for a bit. While we were gone, Denise had fluffed our beds and our room was all tidy.

It seemed like no time before John arrived and we went back to the yard again. “Marla played ball of course, again, again, again, 6

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and again. I still don’t get that fetch thing, but she’s having fun.

In the yard this time, we got to meet other vacationing dogs, Daisy and Louie. The 5 of us played for awhile and then we all went inside for a refreshing drink and some treats. Oh I just love this place,” says Marla. “John can you text the family again, I need a nap!”

Later that day new friends, Jack and Cosmo, checked in. We all played together in the yard again, then relaxed on the porch, had more treats and belly rubs. After dinner Denise let us all run inside for awhile, since it was getting a bit chilly out. Then she sat in the floor with us again and gave us lot of hugs. “Why is Marla in her lap? Says Darcy, I’m the lap dog here!”

“What a day,” said Darcy. “Wonder what we will do tomorrow?” Then John appeared again, “Does this guy ever sleep,” said Marla. “Right, potty again and how cool, a good-night treat on the bed,” says Darcy.

Day 2 Denise was right on time for breakfast, I just love people I can count on. Early this morning more vacationers arrived, Twila and Dealy, then their friends Marley and Tucker, and they all came to visit. John took everyone out in the yard for a social.

What fun, lots of new friends, and of course Marla is playing ball again, and now Darcy is running with her. I suppose he’s just making sure she Mr. Darcy brings the ball back. “Youngsters are so much fun!”

Barb, from Fetching Beauties Grooming came to meet

Max

us today. Another really nice person here at the resort, I hear she gives spa treatments and takes you out for walks. “I hope Mom set those up for us, they have to be as much fun as everything else here,” said Marla.

It’s another busy day here at South Paw Pet Resort, everyone gets lots of attention, so we all feel special. No need to be jealous or competitive, very little stress, just lots of fun and everyone gets along. It’s like we have been coming here for years!

“Darcy, is that someone calling for us to come in?” Said Marla.

“I had no idea it was so late. Where did the day go?” As everyone returns to their suites those nice beds sure seems inviting.

“I’m going to relax and chew awhile,” said Marla.

Day 3 Breakfast and off to the yard. A few of our friends went home today, but we met new ones too. Katie arrived and she and Marla made fast friends. What’s this? Looks a lot like a photo shoot!

Isn’t this vacation? Ok...it’s for Mom. Marla and Katie took turns fetching the ball, of course Marla showed off her radical catching skills. It was a beautiful day of 65 degrees and sunny. Pose for the camera, pose for the camera…work, work, work. We were all tired after the shoot and headed back to the suites for a nap, before afternoon social. No cameras there please. After dinner we spent more one-on-one time with John and Denise before they sat in with our neighbors. Wow another great day comes to a close, but there’s always tomorrow!

Day 4 We each got a private tour of the Resort grounds today.

Marla got to go first, she was running, jumping and grabbing her leash in her mouth, pulling Denise along to walk faster. “Look, look, a pond! They have a pond!” Says Marla. Denise said it was a little cold for a swim today, it was now 38 degrees. What happened to the 65? Marla couldn’t wait to get back and tell Darcy and I all about it.

I got to go next, since it was a bit chilly I put on my sweater. I really enjoyed the one on one time with Denise.

There were squirrels, and birds. On the way back, I got to check out the gift shop. Lots of yummy treats and bones,

I hope Mom will get us some when we check out.

Darcy got to walk next. Marla, myself and the others barked to have fun! We played in the yard while he was gone and as the others got their turn too.

Back in our suites, Denise came by to check on us, we thanked her for such a wonderful morning with lots of kisses. It was time to catch a snooze before our spa treatments. Wonder what those are? Some of the other dogs here said they were great, but didn’t say exactly what happens.

Our first “spa treatment” was an ear cleaning. How refreshing! Marla was also scheduled for a Pawdicure. Barb sat down with her in our suite and they reminisced about all the things we had done so far, while she got her nails done. They look so nice now. It looked so easy for Marla, that I decided to get my front paws done today. Maybe the back ones tomorrow. I’m thinking Darcy is getting a Pawdicure while we are here too.

That evening, while we snuggled on the cozy blankets, we watched the snowflakes begin to fall, it was really kind of magical. It’s getting really cold outside, but John turned the heat up and it’s as warm and toasty as it is at home. You know Marla was right when she talked about all we had done. I have never romped or socialized so much on vacation before. What a great break from work at the magazine everyday!

Day 5 Today we got to tour the grounds again. Darcy loved his walk, he zig-zagged across the path, making sure to cover every square inch of the trail. I was on a mission to see more birds and admitted enjoyed splashing in the puddles, from the snow melt. Marla set out to see the pond again; thinking today would be the day for a plunge. But when she got there, she just dipped her paw in.

It really was too chilly, once again, so she turned her attention to a pile of leaves to jump in!

It was great relaxing in the suite sharing the tales of our walk.

Wonder what the family is doing? Wait, no time for that, here comes Barb! More spa treatments! Barb took me to this big tub, I wasn’t sure what she was going to do. This can’t possibly be a bath, I get one in the little laundry room sink at home. This looks like a pool. Wait, it’s a bath. Not my favorite, but you know it continued page 10

Marla, foreground Buddy, background www.DelmarvaUnleashed.com

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On Pins and Needles Anne Flood, D.V.M.

M

y first introduction to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) was a two day complementary medicine course during my junior year of vet school. A woman had brought in her dog, whose hindlegs and tail were paralyzed, for his second acupuncture treatment. We students watched as the doctor placed needles in certain points on the dog’s back and legs and stimulated his muscles and nerves with an electroacupuncture unit, and then an amazing thing happened…the dog wagged his tail. While this was something the dog had probably done a million times before, this time the owner beamed, knowing that one small movement symbolized the beginning of his recovery.

Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine is comprised of four branches: Acupuncture, Tui-na (a combination of massage and chiropractic work), Food therapy, and herbology. Though acupuncture is by far the most well known of the branches, all four branches can be used together to improve the health and life quality of your pet. Though it has been around for over 2,000 years, interest in Chinese medicine in the U.S. is relatively new.

It was not until Nixon’s trip to China in the 1970’s, when one of his aides became sick and was successfully treated with traditional Chinese medicine, that real scientific interest and research on the effectiveness of acupuncture was generated in the West.

Eastern and Western medicine approach the diagnosis and treatment of disease in different ways. In Chinese medicine, all living things are thought to have Qi, or life force. The flow of 8 Delmarva Unleashed www.DelmarvaUnleashed.com

Qi is believed to drive the body’s activities. A smooth Qi flow leads to a state of health. Disease occurs when there is a disruption in the flow or amount of Qi. Acupuncture is used to help correct and maintain the proper amount and flow of Qi when disease occurs. Having been trained primarily in western medicine, I know that many people are skeptical of Chinese treatments such as acupuncture and herbs. There is, however, a scientific basis for how acupuncture works. Research has shown that the majority of acupuncture points lie along nerve pathways in the body. These points can be found at locations where the nerves branch, or travel through multiple tissue layers.

These areas also contain a large number of blood vessels, and immune channels and cells. During acupuncture, small needles are placed into these points, causing microtrauma and inflammation. The body’s response to this is to release immune cells to fight the inflammation, and a variety of chemicals to relieve the pain. Because there are a large number of blood vessels around acupuncture points, these chemicals and immune cells are taken up into circulation and are distributed throughout the body.

In this manner, a needle inserted into one place on the body can create far-reaching effects.

In western medicine, acupuncture is suggested primarily for the treatment of pain conditions involving the muscles and bones. Acupuncture can, however be used more broadly in conjunction with the three other branches of TCM (herbs, massage, and food therapy) to treat a variety of conditions including skin diseases, disorders of the internal organs, and behavioral problems. A commonplace example of this in the western world is the wristbands that people wear to treat nausea. These bands are designed to put pressure on the acupuncture point Pericardium 6. When stimulated, this point exerts effects on the vomiting center of the brain, which alleviates the feeling of nausea.

When using acupuncture to treat a disease, you are asking the body to balance its energy, not forcing it to do so through surgical or chemical treatments; therefore, it may take time to see significant results. While many clients may see improvement in their pets within 1 to 3 treatments, it may take up to 8 treatments to see dramatic results.

When I see an acupuncture patient for the first time, I start by performing a TCM exam. This includes a complete physical exam, as well as using the pulse and tongue, and the dog’s behavioral history and personality to reach a diagnosis. I then use that diagnosis to formulate a comprehensive treatment plan, which will treat not only the problem area, but the whole animal.

During the first treatment, I generally use “dry needling”.

This means that I insert the acupuncture needles and provide intermittent stimulation by gently twisting them. This allows me to assess how my patient will tolerate needling. Future treatments may also include massage, mild electrical stimulation of the acupuncture needles (electroacupuncture), and injection of saline or B12 at acupuncture points (aquapuncture). After the first treatment, it is normal for an animal to be tired, sometimes sleeping most of the day. In pain conditions, it is also normal for the symptoms to become exaggerated for 24-36 hours posttreatment. After that time period, an improvement in symptoms is commonly seen. Like any medical therapy, acupuncture works

best when it is used on a regular treatment schedule. To increase its efficacy in some cases, the three other branch of TCM (herbal medications, diet changes, and massage techniques) may also be recommended.

As I work to expand my knowledge of Chinese medicine, I am continually amazed at how effectively it can be used to treat pets.

My favorite part of being able to practice TCM is the connection that I feel with my patients during the treatment process. We live in a world where there seems to be a pill or “quick fix” for everything. Though TCM techniques may take a little bit more time to effect change, they help both owner and veterinarian take more active roles in a pet’s health. Options such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and herbal formulas offer an effective, natural alternative to many Western treatments. When used together, Eastern and Western medicine can provide a balanced approach to keeping pets healthy and happy, living longer, more vital lives.

Dr. Anne Flood, is in practice at the Ocean City Animal Hospital, Ocean City MD and the Ocean View Animal Hospital, Ocean View, DE.

Join Us! • Prizes, give-aways, contests • Gifts for the walkers who raise the most money.

• Prizes also awarded for the cutest cat photo.

• DJ • All donations benefit the Ocean City/Worcester Cty. Humane Society. A No-Kill, Non-Profit Shelter.

• Don't have a dog?

Shelter dogs are available to be walked. Please contact the shelter to make arrangements in advance.

• Refreshments provided by Harrisons Harborwatch & Layton’s 16th St. Family Restaurant.

• Pledge sheets are available online and at the shelter.

For more information:

410-213-0146

Best Care Packages for All Life Stages of Your Pet.

• Best Care Little Bundles (puppies and kittens < 1 year old) • Best Care Adult (6 months to 7 years old) • Best Care Senior ( over 7 years old)

Join us for the

St. Patrick’s Day Parade in O.C. March 17 12:00 p.m. on 61st St.

Our packages provide the best medical care for your pet with exceptional pricing.

We are offering an additional discount on vaccines that is not listed on the website.

VCA Delmarva Animal Hospital

DU Cover Model Search April 15 Preregister online at www.delmarvaunleashed.com

Please call for an appointment

10311 Old Ocean City Blvd.

Berlin, MD www.vcadelmarva.com

410.941.8412

410.213.7490 443-664-6261

11934 Ocean Gateway (Rt. 50E) 11805 Coastal Highway, OC

13th Annual Boardwalkin' for Pets

Saturday April 28 9:00 a.m. til Noon On the Boards, at the Ocean City Inlet

Rain or shine

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The DU Dogs Vacation at South Paw Pet Resort. Continued from page 7

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was really ok. Barb is so patient and I really do feel all clean. Marla and Darcy got one too. And Darcy got a nice trim. Looks like a million bucks now. I won’t tell Barb he will roll when she leaves!

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Day 6 John says today is the day the family comes to take us home. I can’t wait to see them. He also said he would send them a welcome home text from us. I know they will like that. We will have to take a few extra minutes in the yard today to say good by to all of our new friends; Katie, Charlotte, Moose…it’s just been so much fun.

Marla got in another round of ball with John, while Darcy played with Moose and Charlotte. Buddy and I sat on the sidelines and watched for a bit. Now, I just need to share all of this with the family, and how great it’s been. Maybe they will bring us back!

On a Dealer Installed Invisible Fence Brand Outdoor Solution ®

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Max is a Jack Russell Terrier mix, living with his family in Whaleyville. He is also a member of the DU canine staff. He has an uncanny ability to communicate with his humans, and is a master of the “Jedi Mind Trick.”

“Put your best paw forward!”

443-880-3879 ™

admission when you pre register online.

A portion of the proceeds from DU Model Search at the Delmarva Shorebirds will be given to the Wicomico Humane Society.

Delmarva Unleashed

DU Cover Model Search

Sitting Fee: $20* Fee includes a professional shoot

by NextWave Studios, a complimentary 5 x 7 photo, and a chance to have your dog appear on the cover of Delmarva Unleashed!

More Info: 410-726-7334 *$25 at Pets in the Park, fee includes Ballpark

Register NOW at DelmarvaUnleashed.com

April 15 Paws & Claws, West Ocean City (May/June 2012 Issue) June 10 Delmarva Shorebirds* Pet’s in the Park, Salisbury (July/Aug. 2012 Issue) August 12 (Mar/April 2013) TBA

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Bryan & Brittingham, Inc.

Your Full Service Feed & Hardware Store Bi-State Blvd. - Delmar, DE www.bryanandbrittingham.com

302-846-9500

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

Sat. 7:30-3:00

Coat Care

by Stephen Frolich

A

hh...Winter! Temperatures have dropped and the colder months require extra layers to stay warm. It is also typical for many dog owners to request their groomer leave the hair longer on their pet for some extra protection and insulation. However, longer hair and fur means additional maintenance for the owner between grooms, avoids mats from developing and additional charges later to de-mat your pup. Regular brushing is key during this time, but CORRECT brushing technique is essential. Each type of coat requires a specialized brush, and having the correct one can make this necessary chore less tedious. The most common brush many pet owners have is a Slicker brush. The Slicker is the one with curved little metal bristles and may be purchased at any specialty pet store, grocery, big box or grooming salon.

They can come in all different sizes, straight or curved with stiff or softer bristles, epoxy tipped, and cost under $19.99. You do get what you pay for, and each variation has advantages and disadvantages. On the whole these all purpose workhorses are great for maintaining your dog's coat year round.

Proper brushing can be broken down into 3 parts: Pat Pull: Unlike a comb or hair brush, Slickers are not designed to be pulled through the hair parallel along the skin.

Instead they are made to grab a sections of the coat and pulled out and away from the skin. This Pat Pull method helps prevent brush burn caused by scratching the bristles along the tender skin. They speed up the brushing process because you are working in smaller sections of coat instead of the entire mass of fur as a whole. By softly patting the face of the brush onto the coat there is minimal skin contact and the pulling method stretches each strand allowing them to lay neatly against the other.

Line brushing: Now that you understand the brushing movement, the second step is proper technique. When a groomer is asked to brush out a client's dog they use a process called Line Brushing. Line brushing starts at the feet and proceeds upward line by line. It involves two hands working together; the left hand holds up the fur while the right hand brushes down with the Pat Pull method. As the left hand slowly releases each "curtain" or line of fur, the right hand quickly brushes at a rate of 2-4 strokes a second. It sounds complicated but you will be surprised how easy and natural the movement is. Brushing the entire dog will move at a faster speed because the brush does not have to fight through the mass of mats you would face if brushing from the top down.

Only proceed upward until the section you are working on is mat free.

Consistency: No one likes doing menial chores like taking out the trash or cleaning the litter box and for many owners brushing the dog falls into this category. Instead look at brushing as an appreciating asset. The more you brush the less you have to do the next time. Plus, it prevents the additional expense of mat fees at the groomer. Some facilities charge an extra $10.00+ for every 15 minutes spent de-matting. You can also look at it as a wonderful opportunity to spend time together and bond with your pet. Your dog will love the extra attention and as an added bonus there will be less hair in your home.

Moisturizing is essential for eliminating the uncomfortable dry, tight flaky skin and helps keep the barbs on hair follicles closed. It is easy to think an Oatmeal shampoo will help, but this Urban Myth is actually the wrong course of action. What happens when you add water to dry oatmeal?â&#x20AC;Ś..It sucks it up like a sponge. Oatmeal shampoos are great for soothing redness and itching from flea bites, allergic reactions or poison ivy after the histamine reaction has been triggered. But to combat the itchiness of dry skin Oatmeal shampoos have the opposite effect. Instead you want to add moisture, and for that you need a humectant which imparts moisture to the skin and coat. Look for silk proteins, sunflower oil, honey, walnut oil or even jojoba to be added to the shampoo. Spray on coat conditioners work well because they continue to moisturize and stay on the coat.

Plus they do not require you to wash the dog first. The introduction of healthy fatty acids in the form of "oils" to your dog's diet will also aid in the production of your dog's natural skin lubrication. These oils can be found in fish based foods. The Omega-3 essential fatty acids will help support a healthy immune system and promote a shiny healthy coat. If changing dog foods isn't an option there are wonderful supplements such as Alaska Naturals Salmon oil that can be pumped directly onto your existing food. Salmon oil offers additional benefits such as healthy brain development, cardiovascular health and reduce skin inflammation from allergies.

So while the nights are still chilly, as you snuggle up next to the fire with your best friend, take a moment to take care of your friend's fur. You will love how soft and silky it can be.