Unleashed
Vol. 8 Issue 4 - Late Summer 2016
Delmarva
Complimentary
Hero Dogs BARK
of the Town
“Jax” 1
Dog Bite! Canine Kneading The Tail End
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
“The Ruff” at Bayside
AT BAYSIDE YOU C A N
just Be... A M A ZED 10TH TEE BOX: PHOTOGRAPHED ONSITE
Ask about summer home buying incentives—a limited time opportunity!
ASK ABOUT OUR SUMMER HOME-BUYING INCENTIVES – A LIMITED TIME OPPORTUNITY
A private Dog Park spannning close to 20,000 feet. Offering the opportunity for dogs and their owners enjoy a range of activities justW for them. B AYSIDE IS A BE AC H Rto ESOR T COM MUNI T Y L IK Edesigned NO O T HER HER E YOU C A N J US T BE ... W ITH LIM I T Lpark ESS is OPP OR T UNI IES FOR F UN areas A N D for R EL A X AT ION. The state-of-the-art dog fenced and Toffers separate both small and large dogs to play. The park includes benches, trees, play equipment, and Award-Winning 18-Hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course | Bayside Institute Year-Round Adult Life Enrichment Classes | Year-Round Activities for Families shade structures. to promote education, training, andCenter recreational Tennis Center with Year-roundThe Courts goal | Indooris Fitness Center | Three Community Pools | Indoor Pool & Fitness (Under Construction) The Point featuring a Fishing Pier, Pavilion | Pool atof the community Point (Planned) | Kayaking Paddleboarding | Miles of Jogging and Fitness Trails | Stocked Ponds activities that foster& Beach a sense andand support responsible dog ownership. Dog Park | Playgrounds | Volleyball and Bocce Ball Courts | Beach Shuttle | Convenient Dining Options including The Cove Bar & Grille Shopping at Harris Teeter Market and more | Choice of Designs and Floor Plans from Award-Winning Builders LiveBayside App (saves time and offers the latest information on the go)
From Cozy Cottages To The Grand – From The $300s To Over $1 Million From Cozy Cottages To The Gr and – From The $300s To Over $1 Million
2
L I V E B AY S I D E . C O M Delmarva Unleashed LateCE Summer 2016 WELC OME NTE R OPE N DAILY 9-5 | 302. 4 3 6 . 9 9 9 8 Model Homes Open Daily – Visit Website for Hours
fl&
31252 Americana Parkway, Selbyville, DE 19975 | Directions: From Route 1 in Fenwick Island, go west on Rt. 54 for 4 miles. Make a left into Bayside on Americana Parkway. The Welcome Center is straight ahead.
Fish Tales, Because I Can Go Too!
Well-behaved leashed dogs welcome in the dock area Located between 21st and 22nd Street www.ocfishtales.com
410-289-0990
contents Vol. 8 Issue 4 Late Summer 2016
Delmarva Unleashed 6 12 14 20 22 24 28 32 34 36
Bark of the Town Hero Dogs Allergies, Allergies Canine Kneading Dog Bite! 10 Tips for Traveling With Your Dog The Tail End Dogs in the Garden You Are What You Eat! Doggie Socials
Publisher
Sandy Phillips
Editor
Grammerly
Creative
Farin Lewis creative@grandlivingmag.com
Contributing Writers Amanda Abresch Polly Elliott John Maniatty, V.M.D. Jaclyn Wolinski, D.M.V.
Advertising Info: (410)726-7334
On the Cover:
”Jax,” proudly owned by Farin & Phil Lewis Jr. Delmarva Unleashed is published six times a year; Winter, Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, and Holiday. It is circulated throughout Maryland’s Lower Shore, Mid Shore and onto Virginia’s Eastern Shore. The magazine can also be found throughout Delaware and is published by Grand Living Magazine, LLC. Delmarva Unleashed is protected under trademark registration. No portion in whole or part may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Copyright 2016©, Grand Living Magazine, LLC. All rights reserved. Content in Delmarva Unleashed is intended to provide information only and is in no way meant to treat or diagnose. Always consult with a specialty professional to address your own personal needs. The company makes every effort to ensure that all information presented is correct, however, we do not make any representations or warranties as to the accuracy of the information, and reliance on information provided, is solely at your own risk.
4
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
5
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
Bark
of the Town Canine News & Tips
Zika & Dogs The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reported the following regarding animals and the Zika virus: “At this time, animals do not appear to be involved in the spread of Zika virus. There is no evidence that Zika virus is spread to people from contact with animals and there have not been any reports of pets or other types of animals becoming sick with Zika virus. However, more research is needed to better understand Zika in animals. Animals in the United States are not at risk of becoming sick with Zika virus at this time.�
Healthy Summer Treats to Share Looking for a healthy summer treat to share with your dog? Toss a cup of vanilla or plain yogurt in the blender with 1/2 cup of blueberries. Blend and pour into popsicle molds. You can add a popsicle stick to your treats and a healthy chew stick, like an Etta Says to your dogs. Freeze. An excellent healthy treat to come home to after a summer day at work! Note: There are oodles of variations to this quick snack, just substitute the blueberries for other canine friendly fruits such strawberries or bananas. 6
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
VET E for
Support Our Cause!
rv
in
gt
rv
se
ed
S
S AN R
VeR U
PROUDLY SERVING VETERANS AND RESCUES
hose who
se
VeRUS FOR VeTeRaNS
COMMUNITy eVeNT
November 5, 2016 10am-5pm The Maryland State Fairgrounds
ce Mission: To enhan ion at or ab community coll ave h o h w in serving those y tr un co served our Promoting local businesses, while bringing awareness to Wounded Veterans/1st Responders and Veterans with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury). Funds that are raised will be given to non-profit organizations whose mission is to train dogs to be therapy and service animals for our Veterans.
Pre-registration at www.verusforveterans.com Funds raised will be given to a reputable non profit organization whose mission is to train service dogs for veterans.
Official Sponsor
7
Made in
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer the 2016 USA
Bark of the Town
Dogs Were Domesticated Twice? Cider Vinegar & Ticks? Did you know that apple cider vinegar can be used to deter fleas from hopping on your dog? While vinegar does not kill fleas, it does set up an inhospitable environment for them. Long story short, they don’t like the smell and will simply avoid it, in favor of other animals with a much more desirable scent. To help protect your pet simply rinse the coat with a 50/50 solution of apple cider vinegar and water, or prepare a spray bottle of the same solution and spray your pet daily. It’s also a good idea to use before outdoor play and walks. Note: your ability to smell the vinegar on your pet will dissipate as the solution dries on the coat. We have tried this ourselves and have seen excellent results!
8
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
A study published in the journal of Science, by Professor Greger Larson, Oxford School of Archaeology, details an interesting find. Larson studied the DNA of dogs who lived in Ireland 4800 years ago and DNA from another 59 dogs that lived between 3000 and 14,000 years ago, comparing that to the DNA of modern dog. The record indicates that dogs were present in both Asia and Europe over 12, 000 years ago. Larson says, “Animal Domestication is a rare thing and a lot of evidence is required to overturn the assumption that it happened just once in any species. Our DNA evidence, combined with the archaeological record of early dogs, suggests that we need to reconsider the number of times dogs were domesticated independently. Maybe the reason there hasn’t yet been a consensus about WHERE dogs were domesticated is that everyone has been a little bit right.”
A family-run business dedicated to helping you say goodbye to your beloved pet.
PARSELL PET CREMATORIUM
Our Services
Private Cremations Witnessed Cremations Pre-Planning Transportation Services Many Memorial Options To learn more, please contact us.
9
parsellpet.com 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE
302-645-7445
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
Lewes, DE
Bark of the Town
Canine IQ & Human Longevity According to Scientific American, UK researchers reporting work in the journal of Intelligence, found that a dog’s performance on tests of cognitive abilities varies among individuals, much like humans. Dogs that score well on one cognitive test will often score just as well on other tests of cognition indicating a level of over-all intelligence. Researcher Rosalind Arden says that this research suggests a general factor of intelligence in dogs or a canine “g” factor. All dogs participating in the study were Border Collies, 68 dogs to be specific, all trained to work herding and thus had similar backgrounds. As in a group of humans, the dogs differed in their success with the tests. One test required the dogs to navigate through a maze and then crawl through a plastic tube to get a treat. The best performing dog completed the task in just 3 seconds, while the dog with the worst score took almost 2 minutes to achieve the desired goal. In the study of human intelligence, a high IQ has been associated with good health and longevity. Interpretation of these studies remains inconclusive to date as humans with lower IQ tend to engage in what are called “confounding” behaviors, such as smoking and drinking. Because dogs do not engage in these types of behaviors, further study of canine intelligence may offer more on the correlation between IQ and longevity in humans.
Malaria Scent Dogs According to the London paper, the Independent, dogs are being trained to detect malaria in humans. Scientists hope to use the skills with the possibility of eradicating the mosquito-borne disease. Humans with malaria emit a distinct odor on their breath that dissipates with treatment. Canine screening of the olfactory signature could prevent infected patients from entering malaria-free areas, thus reducing the spread of the infection. 10
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
Good Judge of Character? People have said for generations that dogs are good judges of character, and now there is scientific evidence to back it up. After living with man for more than 10,000 years and as avid observers of human behavior, our dogs have become quite skilled at evaluating their human counterparts. Akiko Takaoka, Ph.D. of Kyoto University in Japan, recently published an article in the journal Animal Cognition, that studied twenty four dogs shown containers under which a treat was placed. In the next round, the treat was moved to another container, but the humans indicated to the dogs that it remained under the original container. During the third round, the morsel was moved to yet a third container although the humans continued to indicate it existed under the first container, as in the first round. The dogs quickly lost confidence that the human was offering good direction with only 8% of the dogs checking under the original container for the reward. “These results suggest that not only are dogs highly skilled at understanding human pointing gestures but also that they make inferences about the reliability of humans who present cues and consequently modify their behavior flexibly depending on the inference,” says Takaoka. Similar studies conducted with human children indicate that they develop this skill at about age 5. Dogs
are often said to have the intelligence of a 2-3-year-old human, but modern research is beginning to disprove this theory. This study is one example. Another study a Kyoto showed how dogs “snubbed” humans that were rude or aggressive toward their humans, again indicating a lack of trust. Since the dogs in these studies quickly evaluated the dependency of the human, you can clearly understand why it seems our dogs can make such snap judgments when meeting strangers for the first time. Dogs clearly understand the human body language making it even more important that we keep it in mind when greeting new dogs. You would clearly hate to meet your soul mate and be met with a bad review from their dog!
Photo Glynnis Jones
Hero Dogs T
he American's with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as "any guide dog, signal dog, or another animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability. If they meet this definition, animals are considered service animals under the ADA regardless of whether they have been licensed or certified by a state or local government." They continue saying that "service animals perform some of the functions and tasks that the individual with a disability cannot perform for him or herself. Guide dogs are one type of service animal, used by some people who are blind, the kind of service animal with which most people are familiar. But there are service animals that assist persons with other kinds of disabilities in their day-to-day activities, including: 12
by Polly Elliott
_ Alerting persons with hearing impairments to sounds. _ Pulling wheelchairs or carrying and picking up things for persons with mobility impairments. _ Assisting persons with mobility impairments with balance. The ADA also states that "a service animal is not a pet." Hero Dogs, Inc is a 501.3c, Maryland non-profit, that raises and trains service dogs. Jennifer Lund, Founder and Executive Director says, “We, at Hero Dogs, believe that as citizens of a grateful nation we have an obligation to try to restore some of the former independence and ability of our Veterans – all of whom have sacrificed so much for the good of others and to protect our freedom. With a skilled and dedicated
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
dog at their side, Veterans find pathways to independence and dignity. A service dog can make a significant difference.” Hero Dogs provide service dogs to Vets that have served in any branch of the military, in any era, who have been honorably discharged and have a disabling medical condition. Even better the disabling condition does not have to be directly related to their service. These valuable dogs help with sitting, standing and walking. They provide alerts for sounds such as doorbells, alarms, and phones. They retrieve items, open and close doors, can operate light switches and automatic door openers. They can even seek help in an emergency. The dogs begin their education early by participating in a puppy program with volunteer staff until 16-18 months of age. Service dog candidates then move into more advanced training with professional trainers at the Hero Dog facility for approximately eight months. Finally, successful graduates of the program are matched with a Veteran in need and “team” training begins, which consists of an additional 120 hours of training that occurs over the next 6 -12 months. Hero Dogs are trained to meet the needs of a variety of disabilities, and specific training is often provided to meet the individual requirements of the Vet. The team receives life-long support from Hero Dogs. Dogs that don’t meet the final criteria as a “Service Dog” still have valuable skills and those dogs become Therapy Dogs. This group of dogs may have a medical condition that
prevents them from the demand of work as a service dog, but they are still well educated and have much to offer. You can imagine that all of this, provided free of charge to America’s Veterans, requires lots of fundraising. On November 5, 2016. VeRus Pet Foods will host a community event at the Maryland State Fairgrounds to benefit Hero Dogs. The goal is “to enhance community collaboration in serving those who have served our country,” says VeRus. For more information about Hero Dogs, visit them at hero-dogs.org and for more information on the event, please refer to the ad in this issue.
Dogs & Their Companions Living in Harmony
Come Learn Play
Obedience Agility/Rally Puppy Pre-School AKC Canine Good Citizen Therapy Training Day Camp & Boarding
FREE Consultations
302-228-2107
DogsAndTheirCompanions.com
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
13
Allergies Allergies Allergies by John Maniatty V.M.D.
C
oughing, sneezing, runny eyes, congestion, and itching; am I describing you, your pet or both? Dogs and cats can have allergies just like people. They present themselves in similar manners, as mentioned, or can progress to hives and open sores. The causes are similar, as in people, and research is ongoing. Unfortunately the more we learn, the more frustrating it gets when we can not seem to get the allergies under control. Allergies are broken down into two categories food and environmental. Each exhibits the same and cannot be distinguished based on clinical presentation. The only way to tell the difference is by doing a feeding trial; which takes twelve weeks. The majority of the time this is met with limited 14
success because only 5-20% are food allergies alone. Somewhere between 80-95 % are environmental allergies, and remaining percentage of these are the combination of food and environmental sources. So if you can get the food element under control, it may make treatment for the environmental component more successful. Food allergies are strict to the protein and carbohydrate components in the diet. Fats and minerals do not trigger allergies. So animals with chicken or fish allergies are okay to have chicken fat and fish oil in a diet. The most common food allergens are chicken, beef, soy, wheat and corn. This does not mean using a special diet from birth will keep your pet from developing food allergies. Allergies,
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
Bryan & Brittingham, Inc. Your Full Service Feed & Hardware Store Bi-State Blvd. - Delmar, DE
302-846-9500 bryanandbrittingham.com
Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5:00 15 Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016 Sat. 7:30-3:00
in general, have a genetic predisposition. Allergies occur because there is something to which the dog is commonly exposed. So unique protein and carbohydrate diets fed to young dogs and cats can lead to allergies for them also. When choosing a diet, pick food with a limited protein and carbohydrate ingredients list. Otherwise, you may have nowhere to turn to if a food allergy does occur.
and bacteria. Some pets are allergic to yeast, even though it is a normal inhabitant of the skin, but if it reaches a certain level on the skin, it can perpetuate the allergy. We perform skin scrapes to rule out mites and flea comb to look for fleas and traces of their presence. Forty percent of cases presented for allergies have fleas. If the pet is free from fleas and mites, we can recommend allergy
Environmental allergies can be pollens, grasses, trees, mites, fleas, molds, yeast, cleaners, and insects. To help narrow down the causes we ask certain questions such as seasonal versus non-seasonal, changes in the environment, worse after being outside, any other pets in home showing signs? Next, a good physical exam needs to be done. With this, we are looking for lesions that we can do an impression smear on to look for yeast
testing. Referral is made to a veterinary dermatologist for intradermal testing, or your local veterinarian can draw blood and send the specimen to a specialized lab for evaluation. Both would be based on regional and common household allergens. Both types of testing have pros and cons that can be discussed with your local vet. Based on these results sublingual immunotherapy, drops placed in the mouth below the tongue or immunotherapy
injections can be prepared. Sublingual immunotherapy must be given every 12 hours, every day. Immunotherapy injections are given initially every four days, then seven days, working towards every 3-4 weeks if possible. With both treatments, it can take 6-12 months to be effective. The success rate is about seventy percent, and it is never a sole treatment. Initially, it is used in combination with a steroid or Apoquel, a janus kinase inhibitor, to soothe the itch, and provide the patient instant relief. Either medication has a seventy percent success rate at easing the itch. Antihistamines may also be used, but they have only a thirty to forty percent success rate. They may also take a few days to be effective, favoring steroids or Apoquel in the short term. Another medication that is used is a modified cyclosporine or Atopica generics. They are about as effective as prednisone and Apoquel, but the price is much higher, so many people choose steroids or Apoquel. We go to this if steroids create undesired side effects or if Apoquel and steroids are ineffective. Modified cyclosporine takes some time to be effective so its efficacy cannot be judged after 2-3 doses. Along with Medications, some home changes can be implemented. In my practice, we see a high percentage of house dust mite and storage mite allergies. Hepa filter air purifiers can help with house dust mites and other inhalant allergies. If you're feeding dry food, buy smaller bags that can be placed in a sealed container. Freezing the food for 24 hours will kill the mites and prevent further population growth. Wiping their paws off after being outside can help dogs with
Large to small, we them all!
Salisbury’s
Best
Dog Friendly Communities!
Island Club 103 Overlook Drive Phone: (410) 677-3555 TTY: 711 www.RunawayBayApts.com
1500 Sharen Dr. Phone: (410) 860-0095 TTY: 711 www.IslandClubSalisbury.com
Mark Stoehr MAc LAc Certified Animal Acupuncturist mastoehr@hotmail.com marksacu.com
410-707-1540
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
17
Because your pets deserve the best.
Allergies from pg. 17 contact allergies to grasses. If you know or suspect inhalant allergies, then keep windows closed. Simple changes can make your pet more comfortable. Allergies can be very uncomfortable and make you and your pet miserable. There are no quick fixes and not one treatment works for everyone. A thorough workup will lead to a personalized treatment plan and hopefully some much-needed relief.
Climate Controlled Resort Flexible Hours By Appointment
410-835-BARK (2275)
8004 Burnt Mill Road Willards, MD southpawwillards.com
Today! The FastFetch Cup
Presented by Delmarva Unleashed
Qualifiers coming this Fall. Stay with us on Facebook for dates & times as they are available!
18
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
19
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
by Polly Elliott
Canine Kneading
F or many people, a visit to the massage therapist is a luxury. For others,
it’s a medical necessity. Regardless of the method that gets you in the door, most people leave with a renewed sense of well-being, an improved range of motion and perhaps even pain relief. Studies show that your dog experiences the very same benefits. If it seems like a luxury for your pet, being an amateur canine masseuse has benefits for both you and your dog, and you don’t need professional training for your dog to have a positive experience. Massage helps to improve blood circulation, nourishing the entire body. It has been shown to reduce stress 20
for both you, and all at the very same time. Anxious dogs typically respond well to massage. It is also proven that they benefit from alternative therapies like chiropractic and acupuncture. The overall list of benefits is rather impressive. Massaging your dog has even proven to strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Massage is not merely petting or stroking the coat, but involves smooth stimulation of the body muscle groups. To begin, use light pressure in circular motions and start on the head behind the ears. Slowly work your way down the back and over the hind quarters. Make a few passes over the entire body at one time; noting the body
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
contours as you go. Doing this on a regular basis will alert you to any changes in the body, like lumps or skin irritations that might require further investigation by your veterinary professional. Dogs can get skin cancer too, and early detection is critical. While your veterinary professional may suggest watching a lump, as the first course of action, regular massage and monitoring of the body will alert you to any subtle changes that may be helpful in alerting your vet to a more serious health problem afoot. As you make passes over the body, monitor your dog’s reaction to the massage. Does he seem more relaxed? Is he fearful? If your dog appears apprehensive, keep initial massage sessions short, so he learns to trust the procedure. Many of us have rescue dogs that came with some “baggage” that we know nothing about, and if they were mishandled the massage might appear overpowering at first. Work at the pace that makes your dog comfortable. With so many health benefits, it’s well worth the time to work up to a full body massage, if your pet seems comfortable. If your dog is aged, focusing on the hips and legs is often very welcome. Again be sure to observe your dog’s reaction to the pressure and work within their comfort zone. The chemical oxytocin is released in the body during the massage. Oxytocin is a naturally produced hormone that relaxes the body. Right behind the ears is a stimulus point for the release of oxytocin. You probably already now that your dog just loves to be scratched behind the ears. Focusing on this point is an excellent way to help your dog relax. Work with light
pressure and in small circles for maximum benefit. Lightly massaging the ear flaps has the similar effect and you should notice your dog begin to chill within just moments. According to the acupressure meridians, dogs also benefit from paw massages, similar to humans and reflexology. Be sure to pay attention to each toe on the paw and then the paw over all for overall well-being.
New guests receive 20% off base lodging! Md’s Full-Service Pet Hotel NOT Your Average Kennel 4556 Ocean Gateway, Vienna
MdShorePetResort.com
410.376.2107
Share your message with over 220,000 dog people
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
21
Dog Bite?
E ven the best trained, most disciplined dogs can bite if the right situa-
tion presents itself. While as responsible pet owners, we make every effort to prevent it from happening, these are a few tips you should be up on if your best friend does the deed. First, stay calm! If your dog detects panic or fear on your part, he may feel the need for a second bite to protect you. Remove your dog from the situation immediately. Try to be understanding as opposed to being defensive, the victim of the bite will be upset enough for everyone involved, even if it’s not a severe wound. Before placing any blame, determine if the victim will require medical attention. Keep in mind that while they may not feel the fundamental need to seek medical help, they may do so later as a second thought. Note that if the wound is not properly cleaned care may be required at a later date. If they would like a medical evaluation offer to take the victim to get care, and to pay for 22
by Sandy Phillips the required treatment. A dog bite opens you up to the risks of a lawsuit. It’s in your best interest to be kind, sympathetic and helpful from the very beginning. Exchange contact information just as you would in an auto accident. Make arrangements to provide proof of rabies vaccination right away. If you can’t put your hand on your personal copy, your vet’s office should be able to provide the necessary information. Be sure to collect contact information from any witnesses to the bite. Should the victim choose to pursue litigation, your attorney will ask about witnesses. Dog bite laws vary widely, but you are responsible for your dog’s actions regardless. Contact your homeowners insurance company to determine your coverage. They are also an excellent resource for you on “do’s & don’ts.” in this situation. If medical treatment was needed, you could expect a call from Animal Control. Medical facilities are required
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
Accepting Pets Year-Round
Unleashed Complimentary
2016
includes: Local treats Clean-up bags/ dispenser despenser Delmarva Unleashed Pet fee too!
Delmarva
3 - Early Summer Vol. 8 Issue
to report all animal bites and the law in your county/state may require that your dog is quarantined for a period. Don’t panic on this thought, most are confined to home and are only allowed outside the residence on a leash. Restrictions run on average from 10 to 30 days. Your Animal Control will outline the parameters for you and enforce the local law. Many dog bite victims, especially if it’s a close friend, family member or a dog lover, will simply drop the whole thing, especially if the injury is superficial. If you need to go to court, hire a lawyer. Read up on dog bite laws for your area to help you better understand the details. The book, Every Dog’s Legal Guide, by Mary Randolph, J.D., offers excellent advice and tips to assist you through the appearance. It in no way is a substitute for an attorney who will handle your particular situation. Have a lawyer represent you! Preventing a future accident is critical. Most dogs can get off on a first offense, but repeat offenders are scrutinized for safety. Be sure you have your dog thoroughly checked at the vet; sometimes a dog will bite because he or she is in pain and needs treatment. This can often be the case where a dog has never shown any signs of aggression. Remember dogs very rarely bite without warning signs. Learn to read your dog's body language and take them seriously on any cues a bite is imminent.
Time to Hit the Beach!
“Marla”
Pooch Palooza 1
Delmarva Unleashed
Wrap -Up
Summertime Blues Pet nning for Your Pre-Pla 2016
Early Summer
Pampered Pooch Package! 410-250-1100
FenwickInn.com
Amanda Abresch
443-614-7428
YourSmartPup.com
10 Tips for Traveling With Your Dog This Summer! by Farin Lewis
T aking your dog on vacation with you this summer is a must! No matter where
you are planning to go, or what you are planning to do, we all know that when your pup tags along it's going to be ten times better. You could take a trip to the beach, head to the mountains and go hiking, or something as simple as checking out the new local dog park. No matter what you decide to do, make sure that you and your dog are prepared for your adventure. Making sure your dog is comfortable with your vehicle. If your dog isn't used to taking trips; other than to the vet, make sure that they are familiar with your car. For many pups, all you have to do is ask if they want to go for a ride and they are all in. If they do not get the chance to spend much time in the car, start by taking them for short trips. Maybe you need to run down to the post office or the bank. Even the most seasoned of car pups may need some preparation if they are not used to longer journeys. For these dogs, we suggest simply taking them on longer and longer car rides before heading on vacation 24
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
6 1 0 2 l l a F ng i m o C “The Golden Paw”
(aka, the Best Of....in the Eastern Shore’s Dog World)
Delmarva Unleashed
Canine Favorite Delmarva Unleashed is often asked for referrals. Which groomer? Which kennel? Can you recommend a vet? Which dog food should I feed? Where can we take the dogs to eat? It’s time to see who our readers would refer their friends and family to. Because the shore is so large, we are going to break this down by region and there will also be a few over-all categories as well. Voting will occur on our website and we will also have a ballot in the Fall issue for our readers that prefer snail mail. Winners will be announced in the Holiday issue, just in time for your holiday, shopping, holiday grooming, holiday travel etc... Winners will receive a decal for the door of their business indicating they are a Delmarva Unleashed readers favorite! Contact us to be sure your business is on the ballot! 410-726-7334 Creative@grandlivingmag.com
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
25
and making sure each trip has a positive ending. It's quite simple to prepare your dog for their big adventure. Do your research before you go. When you are traveling with your pet, be sure that you always have a plan in place for your accommodations and that there are dog-friendly amenities at your destination. Pet-friendly hotels really should be booked ahead of time. You don’t want to pull up to the only hotel in town, late at night, and find out that they do not accept pets. Yes, you might be able to sneak in a small dog, but you probably won’t have much luck with something larger. Also, make sure to check on the hotel's "pet policy." While many identify themselves as "a dog-friendly hotel," size is a key factor, or there may be fees associated with having your dog in the room. Some hotels will not charge a "pet fee" but surcharge you to steam clean the carpets after you leave and bill your card a week later. Always double check before you go and clarify at check-in! Schedule your travel plans with your dog in mind. You can leave your dog at home for extended amounts of time when necessary, without a potty break, but they are probably sitting there with legs crossed, 'till you get home. Make sure that you schedule potty breaks for your dog as you are traveling. Just because they are not asking to go out doesn't mean they don't need to go. Strange surroundings change their routine, and they will count on you to provide opportunities and several, 26
for their toilet. You should stop every two to three hours depending on your dogs regular potty habits and be sure to offer frequent outings during your hotel time too, to lessen any chances of mistakes. Talk to your Dog. Don’t just sit there and crank the radio up like you would on a girl’s weekend. The best way to keep your dog calm in the car is to talk to them. It doesn’t have to be a constant conversation, or even really directed at them. Just having regular conversations, as you would at home can have a calming effect on the canine traveler. Don’t forget the Treats! This is, without a doubt, the most important part – Don’t forget the treats! It is something that your dog can look forward to during their trip. Perhaps they can have a treat whenever you have to stop for gas or food. It is something that is normal to them, and it will reward them for good car behavior. I know that I can keep my dogs occupied in the car or long rides with something that they can chew on. So don’t forget to stock up! Have a Travel Toy Just like children, having a toy for your dog that they are only allowed to have while in the car is an excellent idea. It is something that they will look forward to during their vehicle rides. It is also something that they can always count on being on the adventure in case they start to get homesick.
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
continued pg. 35
1496 Still Meadow Blvd. Unit A Salisbury, MD 21804 michellesprettypaws.com 410-742-0299 or 410-742-0399
Pamper your pet A happy pooch is a beautiful thing.
Professional Pet Grooming
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
27
The Tail End by Amanda Abresch, B.S., ABCDT, APDT, CPDT-KA
Y
ou may not know it, but one of the most important parts of owning a dog is understanding him. To understand your dog, you have to know first that you have probably been misunderstanding him for years. It’s ok, he forgives you and loves you anyway. Through their body language, dogs give us a lot of insight into how they are feeling about situations and people. We just have to take the time to understand what they are trying to tell us. The easiest place to begin is the most obvious and the most misunderstood—his tail. Most people assume that any dog who is wagging his tail is happy, which is just not true. Knowing what a "happy" tail looks like can save you and your dog a lot of headaches and help you to diffuse potential problems. I use terms like "happy tail wag" and "probably" because we can’t be certain what the dog is thinking. 28
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
Visit any of our 29 locations including:
Dover - 302-672-9494 Elkton - 410-398-5554 Middletown - 302-376-1616 Milford - 302-424-8373 Rehoboth - 302-226-2300 Seaford - 302-628-1001 Smyrna - 302-653-1515 Fox Run Shopping Ctr. - 302-838-4300 Community Plaza - 302-324-0502 Long Neck - 302-945-2113 Salisbury - 443-944-0223 Locally owned & operated
Catering to pets & their owners for over 33 years! concordpetfoods.com
Concord Pet Coupon
10
$
Your Purchase of $60 or More!
off Delmarva Unleashed
Not to be combined with any other coupon, discount, or offer. Expires - 09/31/2016. Not valid at Anniversary Sale.
Room for the whole family, but cuddle up if you prefer!
itsjustabetterhouse.com
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
29
We can look at what happened before and after a tail wag and try to determine the reason. There are definite patterns between specific body language and good things happening and a different body language surrounding not so good things happening. In all of these examples, we will assume the rest of the body language is lining up with the tail, and we aren’t getting conflicting signals from the ears, nose, mouth, tongue, lips, legs or stance of the dog. We will start with a highly alert dog. Now, picture a dog whose tail is straight up, maybe even wagging stiffly. (It may remind you of a whitetailed deer with its tail up.) This dog is very aroused- either because of impending intense play, beginning to work on a complex task, or he is ready for a fight. If I walk into a consult and see a dog whose tail is straight up like this, I move slowly and intentionally so that I keep everything on an even keel. A dog who is this aroused/excited can quickly turn to an attack mode. On the other hand, some dogs look like this when they are excited about playing fetch or when they spot a squirrel they can chase. A "happy tail wag" is a tail that is wagging loosely and even with the dog’s body. Picture a friendly golden retriever wagging his tail. It’s just flowing gently back and forth,; shedding hair all over the floor. Assuming the rest of his body lines up with his relaxed, gently wagging tail, he’s probably playing fetch or getting a belly rub and loving every minute of it. If you approach a dog who looks like this (assuming the rest of his body is also welcoming and relaxed), it’s 30
probably safe to pet him. An "unsure tail wag" would be a tail that is lower than the spine- the tail is not tucked under his body at this point and may still be wagging. Here, with the unsure tail wag, you need to think about the speed that the tail is moving. If the tail is wagging slowly and lower than the spine, the dog is most likely uneasy and nervous. If the tail is wagging quickly, but lower than the spine, the dog is likely unsure but not nervous. If I meet a dog like this, I will reach my hand out to let him smell me and squat down on the floor (not making eye contact) to be less threatening to him. A "scared tail" is tucked under the dog’s belly- the more tightly tucked it is, the more scared the pup is. Picture a dog whose tail is tucked so tightly that the tail almost seems glued to his belly. If I walk into a consult to see a dog like this, I don’t look at him, don’t talk to him and let him decide to say "hello" to me if he wants. A dog who is this uneasy can quickly turn to defensive tactics like growling, snapping, or biting if pushed too far. Now, keep in mind that the tail is just part of the equation. There are many more parts of a dog, and he communicates with all of them- tail, ears, eyes, mouth, legs, body stance; all of these parts come together to tell you what your dog feels in different contexts. That’s it for now! Hopefully, you can now gain some insight into your dog by watching his tail- you would be amazed at all the different tail movements you can see during a single day if you just watch.
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
misunderstood. Recalling behavior courses from college, she began to research and continued her education. Since opening Smart Pups in 2010, Amanda has helped over 300 dogs and their people to live in harmony- using sound, science-based methods that don’t rely on fear, intimidation, or pain. As a Certified Pet Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed, Amanda has demonstrated her knowledge of animal behavior, teaching skills, learning theory, canine development, and body language as well as multiple behavior management techniques. She is a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, through which she continues learning about dogs by attending conferences and networking with trainers across the country.
Delmarva Unleashed would like to welcome Amanda Abresch B.S., ABCDT, APDT, CPDT-KA to the regular writing staff. Amanda is the owner and trainer at Smart Pups, LLC. During her seven years working as a veterinary technician, Amanda realized that she wanted to do more to help dogs who were often simply confused and
Ocean City & Ocean View Animal Hospitals
Full Service Veterinary Hospitals Exceptional Care available Mon-Sat.
John Maniatty, V.M.D. Anne Flood, D.V.M. MaryHelen Staruch, V.M.D. Debra J. Offenbacker D.V.M.
410.213.1170 11843 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City. MD
oceancityvet.com
302.539.2273
118 Atlantic Ave., Suite 101, Ocean View, DE
oceanviewanimalhospital.com
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
31
F
ruit and veggie growth should be well underway this time of year, and many dogs love to help in the harvest. If you have a canine garden thief, be sure they only have access to healthy choices to avoid unplanned vet trips. Keep in mind that while many vegetables themselves are healthy choices, snacking on the foliage of some plants not only damages your plants but may bring on vomiting or diarrhea in your dog. Also, be sure your dogs are not permitted in the area if you use chemical pesticides, at least until the product has dried thoroughly. Dogs can absorb chemicals through their pads. Glyphosate, the active ingredient in many weed control products, is a known carcinogen. Exposure is risky for your dog. Just as you would not let your child play where you sprayed the product, your fur-kids should not walk through it either. 32
Many fertilizers are not safe for your dogs as well, be sure to read labels carefully or consider natural alternatives like compost or horse manure, that are healthier choices for your entire family. Wildlife traversing your garden can also pose health threats to your dog. Opossums carry Leptospirosis, and Rabies is now endemic on the Shore; having been confirmed in raccoons and the occasional cat. Keep a watchful eye that you and your dog are not the only ones snacking on the growing veggies and that they are up to date on those shots. While many vegetables are healthy for our dogs, keep in mind that cruciferous veggies, like cauliflower, cabbage, and brussel sprouts can cause gas in some dogs. According to the AKC, the florets of broccoli contain the toxin Isothiocyanate, which can cause gastrointestinal upset. It is said
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
by Polly Elliott
Dogs in the Garden
Animal Wellness Center of the Eastern Shore Improving The Life of Your Pet Physical Rehabilitation Water Therapy Holistic Medicine
Jaclyn Wolinski, DVM
410-572-4266 31454 Winterplace Parkway Salisbury, MD that the broccoli stems are safe and contain beneficial vitamin C. If your dog is snacking directly from the garden, we suggest limiting access to broccoli and cruciferous veggies to avoid any surprises or unplanned vet trips.
Healthy Garden Choices
Garden Dangers
Sweet Potatoes Green Beans Peas Cucumbers Carrots Asparagus Celery Bell Peppers Spinach Lettuce Pumpkin Squash & Zucchini
Onions Garlic Some Mushrooms Rhubarb & leaves Green or imature potatoes Tomato Leaves Unripe Tomatoes Keep in mind that this list may not be exhaustive, and the best solution may be to not allow your dogs in the garden unsupervised, if at all.
You Are What You Eat! by Jaclyn Wolinski, D.V.M.
I
’m often asked in the exam room, “Doc, what brand of dog food should my dog be eating?” On the surface, it seems like a simple question, but when you consider the hundreds, maybe even thousands, of different dog foods currently on the market, the question becomes a little more complicated. Then take into account each dog’s individual genetics, age and activity level and the plot thickens. There are many, many good dog foods out there, but not every food works for every dog. In general, you want to choose the highest quality dog food you can afford, ideally with no by-products or fillers. When you read the ingredients on the bag, you want to easily recognize what’s included. The food should be easy for your dog to digest, giving him/her normal, regular bowel movements and no diarrhea, gas or vomiting. On top of all this, your dog should enjoy eating it!
10 Tips for Traveling with Your Dog continued from pg. 26 Dog parks. An excellent way to give your dog a break on your journey is to utilize off-leash dog parks that you might encounter. This will give them a chance to stretch their legs and expend cooped up energy that they may have from being stuck in that car for an extended period. I would suggest trying to find some that are on your travel route before you go, that way you will have a plan in place for these breaks. Bring water. It may seem like a no-brainer, but make sure that you bring enough water for your dog. You can stop at any quick stop and get a bottle of water for your dog, but I suggest that you bring water from home. It's just one more thing that is familiar to your pet. You may not notice the difference, but the water that comes out of the faucet at your house may have a very different taste than the bottle of water at the gas station. Any change is diet, along with possible stress from the car ride could lead to your pet having an upset stomach, and that is the last thing you want on your vacation. You may also consider implementing bottled water into your dog's diet a few weeks before the trip, a particular brand, and look for that brand when you stop for breaks. Again, the taste or lack of will be familiar.
some dogs may find it more relaxing to be out in the car during their adventure. Bring their favorite blanket or pillow to make the car seem more like home. Double check to be sure that they have enough room; they will not be happy sandwiched between your suitcase and the door for their journey. Keep in mind that items may shift during travel. Check at intervals to be sure your travel gear has remained on it's side of the car. Your driving. It may be easy to forget that you have a passenger that is not as at ease as you are in the car. Things like road rage can have a huge affect on your dog. Your acts and tone could cause your dog to become stressed and make them fear being in the car with you. So make sure to slow down and pay attention to how your dog is reacting to certain situation. We hope you have a great trip planned for this Summer!!
Comfort is important Make sure that space you have for your dog is clean and comfortable. Consider traveling with your dog in their crate, if they are used to one, or Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
35
Doggie Socials
Tika - Federalsburg
Prescott - Ocean City
Yanda & Lulu Aberdeen
36
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
Zeke - Grasonville
Riley - Hartly
Chloe, Athena & Orville Wilmington
Grizzly - Crisfield Oakly - York, PA
Zipper - Selbyville
Amico - Cambridge
38
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
The Dude New Milford, PA
You Are What You Eat, continued from pg. 34
Isabella, Wilmington Buddy - Delmar
What do you do if you’re feeding a high quality dog food, maybe you’ve tried several, and your dog is still having problems? What if that problem is obesity? Obesity is a well-known epidemic in America that is now spilling over into our pets. In many cases, dogs are able to lose weight with simple portion control. It is our responsibility to feed them appropriately to avoid obesity and secondary problems such as diabetes, breathing difficulties and joint pain. We need to feed them for the weight they should be, not the weight they are at currently. If portion control isn’t the problem, then allow me to put my traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM) hat on for a moment. TCVM teaches that a dog’s body is its own little microcosmos that has to stay in balance to be healthy. This balance can be affected by the external environment, especially the foods that we eat. Our digestive systems have to be able to appropriately process this food into good, clean, healthy Qi (pronounced “chee”). Processed foods are one of the most common causes of problems in this digestive routine. Instead of smooth flowing Qi, a TCVM pathogen called Damp is produced. Damp can be likened to “sludgy Qi.” This Damp can accumulate into weight gain. In order to reverse this course, you must eliminate the processed foods. A fresh cooked or raw diet would be the answer in this situation. If you’re preparing this food at home, consult your veterinarian for recommendations on how to ensure it is properly balanced for your pet.
URGENT CARE Superior Care In A Warm Environment. Where the Locals Go!
• Pediatric & Adult Care • Lab • X-ray • Orthopedic Supplies • Open Year Round • No Appointment Needed
Insurance Accepted 12547 Ocean Gateway, West Ocean City 40
410-213-0119
Delmarva Unleashed Late Summer 2016
WestOCInjuryCenter.com
