Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine, March/April 2012

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March/April 2012

Dedicated To Las Vegas Pets And The People Who Love Them

LVMPD K-9 Unit

Partners With The Community – Everyday Heroes

Safe And Effective

Aromatherapy For Pets Obesity

Killing Our Pets With Kindness

The Morgan Horse A Kind and Versatile Breed

Potbelly Pigs

Great Pets For The RIght People

Check out the Kids Scene Page for Upcoming Events and Contest!!

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Officer James Ledogar has been partnered with his Patrol Dog, Reno, a Belgian Malinois, since December 2011 and Narcotics Detection Dog, Flirt, a black Lab, since January 2008.

If you don’t train ‘em, don’t blame ‘em…

From poms poms to timber wolves,

Mark Gibson has been, is, and will continue to be Las Vegas’ Best Dog Trainer.

Free Evaluation

in home or in kennel training.

www.GIBSONSCANINE.com

702-636-8700

C a D f e O and Tave O W T N E rn BR is going to the DOGS

and cats and birds and rabbits and ferrets!

Dine with your pet and receive

10% Off

all food entrees.

FREE DOGGIE TREATS!

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• Family Dining • Happy Hour Specials • Acoustic Fridays • Bar & Gaming • Cigar Lounge

7325 W. Warm Springs Road • Las Vegas, NV 89113 • 702-656-3000 • www.thebrentwoodcafe.com

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Dogs ◆ Cats ◆ Birds ◆ Reptiles ◆ Horses ◆ Exotics

Dedicated To Las Vegas Pets And The People Who Love Them

MARCH/APRIL 2012

contents PAGE 5 AROMATHERAPY FOR PETS

Publisher

SHASTA Media Connection, LLC

PAGE 12-13

Contributing Writers

Dr. Chad Bower, DVM Dr. Nancy Brandt, DVM, CVC, CAC Rose Connolly Crystal Kimhan Kathy Schreur Shelly Volsche, CPDT-KA

Advertising Stacy Rombach Jayne Brass Geri Rombach

Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine is published bi-monthly by Shasta Media Connection, LLC. All rights reserved. Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine assumes no responsibility or endorsement of the products or services advertised or featured. No portion of the Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher.

LVMDP K-9 Unit Everyday Heroes

PAGE 17 THE MORGAN HORSE A Kind & Versatile Breed

PAGE 18 Potbelly Pigs

Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine is distributed throughout the Las Vegas area at pet stores, animal shelters, grooming salons, veterinary clinics, health food stores and pet events with no cover price.

We welcome reader correspondence and editorial submissions. Please send all letters, inquiries, submissions, photos, pet stories and correspondence:

info@lvpetscene.com Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine 5785 W. Tropicana Ave., Suite 5 Las Vegas, NV 89103 (702) 367-4997

The Right Pet For You?

PAGE 22 OBESITY Killing Our Pets With Kindness

www.LVPetScene.com

ADVERTISING in the

Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine is the way to reach pet lovers in Las Vegas and Henderson!

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Welcome Spring!

Yes, springtime - the time when flowers and trees give witness of winter’s hard work; it is a time of renewal. We’re excited about the many opportunities we will have this spring to meet and greet many of our readers and advertisers at various events. Our publication is about pets and the people who love them. Our purpose, passion and plans focus on creating a publication that is informational and inspirational. It’s a place where businesses and organizations can promote their products, services and causes.

St. Patrick’s Day is an enchanted time - a day to begin transforming winter’s dreams into summer’s magic. ~ Adrienne Cook Daily we’re given challenges that test our passion and patience. Yet these challenges serve as opportunities to deepen our sense of purpose and renew our passion. However, the greatest source of renewal is the support of the people of Las Vegas and Henderson. There is no room for doubt on this subject: the people of Las Vegas and Henderson love animals; they love their pets and are committed to them. Thank you for your support. Together we are making a difference!

We looking forward to hearing from you – email us at info@lvpetscene.com

Like us on facebook: www.facebook.com/lasvegaspetscene

Your Friends at Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine

Angel Tails Mobile Dog Grooming Where Dogs Have a Heavenly Experience

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We come to you in our beautiful climate controlled mobile grooming trailer with all the comforts of home.

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Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

Our Pets… A Part of The Family Complimentary Urn & Matted Presentation with Paw Print, Fur Clipping and a Molded Paw Imprint.

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Aromatherapy for Pets

By Dr. Nancy Brandt DVM, CVC, CAC

W

hen we hear the word Aromatherapy we may think of things that smell good like bath salts and candles. Aromatherapy actually is a medical modality used to treat a number of medical issues and is even taught in many medical schools. This form of treatment has been around for many years and has a lot of research backing its use.

In the veterinary world there was little known about aromatherapy for pets, until Dr. Brandt undertook detailed clinical research, in 1997, into its safe and effective use. Her research has then led to creating the first Veterinary Aromatherapy course. She has lectured worldwide and taught many lay people and veterinarians the art of using therapeutic grade essential oils both safely and effectively with animals.

When you consider using essential oils in pets, first consider that these substances are very concentrated and can be harmful if used incorrectly. Second, consider that animals have a far greater sense of smell than humans do and therefore less is better. If you over stimulate the olfactory lobes of pets, they can be very uncomfortable. Some oils even may cause harm, especially in felines.

When undertaking a therapeutic approach to using essential oils, please educate yourself to do the best you can for your pet. Even though these substances are an over-thecounter item, using them correctly will serve both to be far more effective and, of course safer.

Things like Lavender essential oil, when therapeutic grade, pure, unadulterated, and of the correct chemistry can mend a burn very quickly and without pain or scar.

Lavender can up lift the spirits of a grieving pet. Lavender can help with skin issues and even assist in seizures.

Peppermint essential oil, when therapeutic grade, pure, unadulterated, and of the correct chemistry can fix stomach upset, dental disease and even assist in healing the liver.

Lemon essential oil, when therapeutic grade, pure, unadulterated, and of the correct chemistry can be a great way to clean the entire home without any chemicals which can drastically affect your pet’s health.

Clove essential oil, when therapeutic grade, pure, unadulterated, and of the correct chemistry can combat MRSA, the resistant bacteria.

Cilantro essential oil, when therapeutic grade, pure, unadulterated, and of the correct chemistry can combat resistant strains of tuberculosis.

Thyme and 72 other essentials oils, when therapeutic grade, pure, unadulterated, and

of the correct chemistry can combat viral infections some times within 12 hours.

Frankincense essential oil, when therapeutic grade, pure, unadulterated, and of the correct chemistry can even combat cancers.

Most oils that are therapeutic grade, pure, unadulterated, and of the correct chemistry can combat infections of bacteria, yeast, viruses and parasites. Sometimes only therapeutic oils can “kill the bug”. Most essential oils can speed the healing of wounds by 50% or more. All oils, if unaltered by chemicals or poor manufacturing techniques, are natural and safe for the environment.

Know your essentials oils, know how to use them and know how to trust them. There are many examples of animals that have responded to essential oils at Natural Care Institute. Things like chronic anal gland impactions, back pain, lameness, parvo disease, cancer and even skin diseases have responded very well. There is more to aromatherapy than just smell. These well researched concentrated plant extracts could be the answer you are looking for. To learn more about the power of essential oils and to gain the best of what the plant world offers, go to the website for more information and class schedules.

www.NancyBrandtdvm.com

Enjoy the amazing bond your furry friend offers you always.

Dr. Nancy Brandt DVM, CVC, CAC Founder and Medical Director of Natural Care Institute LLC and www.nancybrandtdvm.com, Pioneering Veterinarian in Aromatherapy, Author of First Veterinary Aromatherapy Course, Holistic Veterinary Practitioner Natural Care Institute LLC • 7775 S Rainbow Blvd Suite 160 • Las Vegas, NV 89139 702-617-3285 Office drnancy@nancybrandtdvm.com Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

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Companionship without the Cost Southern Nevada Beagle Rescue Foundation is desperately seeking foster homes.

We are an all volunteer nonprofit organization predominately rescuing Beagles & Beagle mix dogs. Until a successful adoption, dogs are housed in foster home environments where they receive love and care.

SNBRF currently needs more foster homes so that we do not have to turn dogs away.

We pay for the dog’s medical care and ask foster families to participate in our park meet-up events to promote adoption, and assist in meeting potential adoptees.

SNBRF simply asks too that you treat the dog as your own.

This is your chance to enjoy the companionship of a dog without the worry of the cost. You will also be a part of a rewarding experience by helping a rescue Beagle find its “forever home.”

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Please fill out a foster application at www.southernnevadabeaglerescue.com or call 702-493-9779 for more information.

Read local author Sue Laing’s latest thriller: When newly-retired detective Michael Pearce reluctantly agrees to beloved sister Mattie’s request that he come to her home and help her with a murder investigation, he has no idea that he will soon delay his long-anticipated fishing trip to help Mattie’s dear friend Jenny get to the bottom of the mysterious accident that befell her beloved adopted daughter, Beth, and Beth’s youngest son, Daniel.

The local police department has ruled the case a murder-suicide, but Beth’s estranged husband’s insistence on a hasty cremation makes Mattie and Jenny suspicious, and Michael begins to agree with their assessment.

Sue Laing has made her home in the Las Vegas area for 26 years. She has been passionate about writing all of her adult life. She prides herself in the fact her readers never manage to identify the culprit until revealed by the author.

Available at Ingram, Baker & Taylor, Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Borders, and fine bookstores everywhere. Also available on the Kindle and Nook.

ISBN: 978-160844-926-2

Visit: suelaingbooks.com to order online!

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Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

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Pet’ograph

Surviving the Canine Teens

By Shelly Volsche, CPDT-KA

He steals the remote. Grabs food from the counter. Pulls horribly on the leash.

She runs away when you call. Ate your favorite shoes. Goes on a rampage racing through the house in the middle of the night.

Does any of this sound familiar? If so, you are probably going through canine adolescence.

Canine adolescence occurs between the ages of 5 months and 2 years, and it is very similar to human adolescence. It is marked by an increase in independence, growth spurts, energy bursts, and “selective attention.”

So, how do we survive with our relationship intact?

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Consistency, Consistency, Consistency It is important that dogs know what to expect and how to get what they need. Establish a daily routine to be sure exercise, training, and socialization needs are met. Also, determine the house rules and stick to them. It will only confuse your dog if the answer varies from day to day or person to person.

Limit one per customer. Expires 4/30/12.

“Dominance” is About Being Smart, Not Strong There is a lot of misinformation about dominance in our relationship with dogs. While it is important to establish your role as leader, this does not need to be done through force. Rather, remember that the leader controls the resources. Expect your adolescent to say “please” by sitting for the things they want, whether it is food, access to the outdoors, or your attention.

Calm Down Every dog needs exercise. However, during adolescence, it seems that we can never quite tire them out. It is for this reason that we must teach them the value of being calm. This can be done by teaching them to relax on a mat or to enjoy being in their crate.

Get Control of Yourself!

Impulsive behavior is a hallmark of adolescence for any species. Dogs are no different. If you haven’t already taught skills like “Leave It,” “Wait,” or loose leash walking, now is the time to ramp up the training. Impulse control learned with these skills will translate to an overall improvement in manners.

Manage for Success In the end, it’s important to help your dog along. Be sure to manage the environment to set them up for success. For example, if you know your dog steals from the counter, be sure to keep the counter clear of temptation.

Adolescence is actually a short time with respect to the canine lifespan. It can be trying, no doubt. But with a little consistency, training, and patience, you can survive it together. And as always, if you need help, contact a trainer for guidance. Visit www.CCPDT.org to find a Certified Professional Dog Trainer or www.APDT.com for a listing of trainers in your area.

Shelly Volsche, CPDT-KA is the owner of Good Paws, llc. She has over 5 years of professional training experience and is certified by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. She is a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, Truly Dog Friendly, an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, and holds a Certificate in Canine Nutrition. She is currently completing her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Her goal is to help bridge the gap existing in so many human-canine relationships. Shelly can be reached at 702.469.1437 or via email at Shelly@GoodPawsTraining.com.

Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

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Fun was had by

!

ALL

Images By Nikki Lee

nikkileesphotography@live.com www.facebook.com/imagesbynikkilee

Open your heart and home.

At Petco, we always encourage you to Think Adoption First when adding to your pet family.

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Selection varies by store. Expires: 6/15/12.

Present coupon and Pals Rewards card to receive this offer. Not valid on the purchase of gift cards, prior purchases, online or with any other coupon offer.

Void if copied, transferred and where prohibited by law. Single-use coupon, limit one per household. Valid at either Petco or Unleashed by Petco™. Valid on instock products only (not services, such as Grooming).

Selection varies by store. Expires: 6/15/12.

Nine convenient locations • Visit petco.com/locator 8

Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

02-01110 Las Vegas Mag_v5.indd 1

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January – April – September REGISTRATION: First Thursday of January, April and September at 7:00 pm.

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Monthly Meetings: The first Tuesday of the month 7 PM. Community Meeting Room @ Desert Toyota, Scion – 6300 W. Sahara Ave.

For More Information Visit Our Website www.VVDOC.org or Call 368-0656 (recording) Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

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Experience The Difference Between Finding You A House And A Home.

These little dogs are my “babies”!

We “rescued and adopted” our Maltese, Button, when she was 8 years old and celebrated her 14th birthday on December 12th.

We got Lacee, our Bishon Frise, as a puppy and she is now 8 years old.

They are both so precious and keep us laughing at their playful antics.

We know Lacee has kept Button young!

Sheri Myers, CRS Certified Residential Specialist BROKER / REALTOR® 30+ Years Real Estate Experience

Direct (702) 458-8494 Cell (702) 686-5882

E-Mail: smyerslv@aol.com Website: www.SheriMyers.com

I’m here to help!

I have been a REALTOR® in the Las Vegas area since 1977 and would like to put my experience and expertise to work for you. As an experienced REALTOR®, I am qualified to guide you in all aspects of either buying or selling a home or investment property.

Today’s market is led by short sales, bank repos, as well as traditional sales.

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Here are 2 of the many “Short Sale” homes that I have recently listed and then closed escrow. At Windermere, we take great pride in our “Short Sale” process that has proven so successful in today’s $210,000 Absolutely Impeccable Spacious Home challenging market.

With Upgrades In Gated Community!

If I Can Help You in Any Aspect of Real Estate, Please Contact Me. Las PetScene SceneMagazine Magazine• March/April • March/April 2012 Las Vegas Vegas Pet 2012

“Those Left Behind” Foundation A Non-Profit 501(c)(3) Organization

Our Motto - “Helping Families, One Pet at a Time”

Our mission is three fold. We began this foundation to provide a home for the pets of people entering assisted living facilities or hospice and can no longer care for their animals. We also act as a rescue organization, providing help for animals that have been abandoned, abused, and unwanted. The third aspect of the foundation is education for the community, teaching young and old alike the importance of caring for our animals and the impact such actions can have on society.

In short, we are here for “Those Left Behind.”

Free Doggie Vaccination Clinic Open to the Community April 21, 2012 • Pet-A-Palooza Event

We are excited to announce that “Those Left Behind” Foundation will be hosting a free vaccination clinic for the community during Pet-A-Palooza Event. Admission starts at 10am and will go until 6pm. We will vaccinate as many dogs as possible. Everyone knows about the Parvo issue in Las Vegas and we want to help stop the disease.

WE WILL ONLY BE VACCINATING PETS OF INDIVIDUAL FAMILIES.

Emerald

Siberian Husky/Shar Pei Mix Male, 10 month old rescue who has been in a kennel for 3 months now.

l am a very special dog.

I need room to run, enjoy the dog parks, and I love to be loved. If you adopt me, remember I am going to be BIG and need someone who loves to walk, run, or hike and I will love you forever.

www.ThoseLeftBehindFoundation.org • (702) 630-8523

Lord Nibbler

Sammy & Lucy

s t e P s a g e V s La

Snoozin’ & Enjoying the Good Life!

Monroe The Pug (or is he a frog?)

Lord Nibbler, Socrates, Sir Vicious

Show-off your pet!

E-mail your photo to info@lvpetscene.com

“Bobby & Clyde”

Our friends from Princeton Kentucky!

Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

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LVMPD K-9 UNIT

Partners With The

Community

A Working Dog’s Oath

Everyday Heroes

Author ~ Unknown

By Kathy Schreur

Those of us who have the privilege of sharing our lives with a dog enjoy certain bragging rights. We tell stories to anyone who will listen how special our dog is or what trouble they got into the day before. Our lives revolve around them. There is, however, a group of individuals who has all of us beat. They are the members of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) K-9 Unit, both two and four legged. The officers and their service dogs are devoted to protecting and saving our lives. Most dogs just want a treat and cuddle. The K-9 Unit definitely has more of a right to brag.

T

he Unit began with the City of Las Vegas Police Department in 1961, organized by Sergeant Harold Miller. Currently, the LVMPD K-9 Unit consists of 20 officers/handlers (3 of which are Sergeants) and 2 dogs per handler, except the Sergeants. The Sergeants have 1 patrol dog and provide supervision and training for the Unit. The other officers have a Patrol Dog and a Detection Dog. The average age which most dogs begin their service is 1 to 2 years old. Currently, the most utilized breed is the Belgian Malinois. They have slowly overtaken the European bred German Shepherd, due to their size, agility, and extremely strong fight, protection and hunt drives. Another breed making a strong showing as a Patrol Dog is the Dutch Shepherd. The Detection Dogs are mostly Springer Spaniels and Labrador Retrievers due to their strong hunt drive.

As with all jobs, certain criteria must be met to qualify as an officer/ handler and dog for the K-9 Unit. The dogs are born overseas and procured through vendors in northern California, Indiana or locally.

The bar is set high for the dogs. Even if they show strongly on the sixteen different drives that are valued in the job, it is not enough.

They must also demonstrate independence and the ability to stay engaged. The officers all start with a Patrol Dog for at least 2 years, and from there they are given a second dog for detection work.

The officers must have worked in Metro for at least 5 years.

There is a long testing process, part of which is an opportunity to be a K-9 Agitator. With both types of officers, there are openings only when one leaves or retires.

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Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

I will lay down my life for you and expect nothing but love in return.

I protect my officer with my life, and would gladly take a bullet in his place.

I am sent in to find lost children and fugitives on the run.

I find drugs and weapons and even bombs.

I am the first sent in and sometimes the last to leave.

I am the nose and ears of my officer.

I will protect and serve him I would die for him and for you.

I only ask for compassion and a kind word.

Every new dog and handler goes through 12 weeks of training, 10 hours per day. After that, the training continues nearly daily for the rest of their careers and is done in-house. While each dog is trained in a specific discipline (patrol work, narcotics, explosives, cadaver), they support every section and department of Metro from SWAT to homicide. The officers and dogs are always together. While staying available for a call for detection, the officers assist in the day-to-day activities, such as traffic stops, robberies, etc. These teams are always extremely busy and in high demand.

The top skill set the dogs bring to the job is their amazing olfactory capabilities. Their primary function is to be a search tool and their goal is to find. They can separate out one scent from fifty. For example, when we lift the lid to the trash can, we just smell a foul odor; dogs can detect a specific odor within the multitude of odors in that trash can. They are search instruments, first and foremost.

The most common task for the handlers and their dog is searching for suspects who have fled on foot and escaped. People can search and never see what is before them (where did I put those keys?); dogs know what they smell and don’t ever think “he couldn’t be there.” And while their primary focus is to find, occasionally they are put in the position of having to defend themselves and their human partner and apprehend a violent criminal. Officer Jim Ledogar explained why, as a partner, his Patrol Dog is so valuable. No matter what the distractions, day or night, his partner will alert him to danger faster than a human counterpart would be able to do, alerting both of them to potential harm.

The police dogs of the LVMPD are true partners with their human officers. DuWayne Layton, who has been with LVMPD since 1991, has been instrumental to the K-9 Unit since 1996 and is currently partnered with Boris, a Patrol Dog, and Bonnie, a female Belgian Malinois Explosive Detection Dog. Boris and Bonnie go home at the end of their shift with Officer Layton and are members of his family. They understand the difference between work and off time and are very social. Police dogs may be perceived as intimidating and mean, but that just is not the case. There is no place for a mean dog with the K-9 Unit. They are cared for and deeply respected.

They are given excellent veterinary care by Dr. Michelle Hoyt at VCA Decatur Animal Hospital. When they retire (average is 6-8 years of service), they live out their remaining years with their handlers. As Officer Layton believes: “they served us; it is our turn to serve them.”

If you would like to be of service to those who have been of service to you, the Friends for Las Vegas Police K9’s would welcome your donation. 100% of donations go to the care and feeding of retired police service dogs of the K-9 Unit. The fact that these dogs, who have put their lives on the line time and time again for duty and worked so hard for people without complaint, are lovingly taken care of after their time of service is beyond commendable. They love to work, and the day they retire is the hardest day of their lives. However, they are not abandoned or put down as so many animals are after their “useful” time is over. Please visit www.lvmpdk9.com to learn more about the officers, the dogs, and this wonderful non-profit organization.

S L A I R T 9 K D LVMP

Every year in October, usually the third Sunday of that month, he Orleans Arena is filled with the sounds of people, dogs, and excitement. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department hosts and The Friends of Las Vegas Police K9’s sponsor the annual K-9 Trials, drawing handlers and their dogs from not only around the country, but even Mexico and Canada. Over thirty handlers and their dogs participate in the various competitions. The event is free to the public and begins at 8:00 in the morning and runs into the afternoon. If you would like to see these brave and amazing dogs put through their paces and demonstrate the work they do, come out and support them. The handlers and dogs compete in the fields of obedience, agility, handler protection, and go after criminals with a passion. It is a special opportunity to show your support for our officers, both human and the “humans in furry suits”, and learn about the K-9 Unit. Circle and save the date on your calendar now!!

Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

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Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

Pet Sitter Serving Northwest Las Vegas and Summerlin

Thursday, March 1st to Sunday, March 4th Giant Warehouse / Garage Sale!

Heaven Can Wait Animal Society • www.hcws.org 9:00am - 3:00pm (Sun. ‘til noon) • 2900 E. Patrick Lane #1 • Electronics • Books • Jewelery • Clothing • Furniture, etc!

In-Your Home Care

Thursday, March 15th

Yappy Hour At Rumor The Las Vegas Boutique Resort 6:00pm - 9:00pm • 455 E. Harmon Ave. • www.RumorVegas.com Cocktails & Yapatizer Specials, Free Giveaways & Prizes!

Friday, March 30th

Vegas Valley Dog Obedience Club AKC Licensed All-Breed & Mixed Breed Trial

Rose Connolly (702) 465-7991 Licensed • Bonded • Insured

8:00 am • Veterans’ Memorial Park, 1650 Buchanan Blvd. www.VVDOC.org

FREE CLASSES!

Saturday, March 31st & Sunday, April 1st The Mega Match-A-Thon

The Animal Foundation & The ASPCA • www.AnimalFoundation.com 11:00am - 7:00pm • The Animal Foundation Campus • 655 N. Mojave Rd. Adopt any dog or cat and receive a free collar & free ID tag!

Saturday, March 31st & Sunday, April 1st

Silver State Kennel Club’s AKC Licensed Obedience and Rally Trials + All Breed Conformation Shows 8:00am • Veterans’ Memorial Park, 1650 Buchanan Blvd.

Thursday, April 5th

Vegas Valley Dog Obedience Club Class Registration & Orientation

7:00pm • Mendoza Elementary School, 2000 S. Sloan www.VVDOC.org or call (702) 368-0656 (recording)

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Call and sign up for your free class today!!

Come Bead With Us! 4750 W. Sahara Avenue, Ste 13 (702) 259-6100 Las Vegas, NV 89102 www.TheBeadShackLV.com

Saturday, April 7th

16th Annual Wag-A-Tail Walk-A-Thon

Las Vegas Humane Society • www.lvvhumane.org 9:00am • Kellogg Zaher Sports Complex • 7901 W. Washington Ave. You’ll have a hip hoppity fun time!

Thursday, April 19th

Yappy Hour At Rumor The Las Vegas Boutique Resort 6:00pm - 9:00pm • 455 E. Harmon Ave. • www.RumorVegas.com Cocktails & Yapatizer Specials, Free Giveaways & Prizes!

Saturday, April 21st

MIX 94.1’s Pet-A-Palooza

10:00am - 6:00pm • Star Nursery Field at Sam Boyd Stadium Nevada’s Largest Pet Party is Back! • Log onto Mix941.fm for details.

Saturday, April 21st

Free Doggie Vaccination Clinic • Pet-A-Palooza Event Hosted By “Those Left Behind” Foundation

Sunday, April 22nd

www.phungjefferson.com

Earth Day 2012 – 5 Dog Rescue Group Rummage Sale 7:00am - 1:00pm • Hosted By PETCO • 645 Green Valley Pkwy Great Items - Reasonable Prices!

Sunday, April 22nd

The Animal Foundation’s 9th Annual Best In Show

1:00pm • The Orleans Arena Dog show featuring 50+ fabulous shelter dogs. Guest Nathan Burton will host this family-friendly event. All dogs will be available for adoption.

Visit www.AnimalFoundation.com/bestinshow for info.

Thursday, April 26th

Animals In Wonderland Champagne & High Tea - Chapter 2

Thousands of years ago, cats were worshipped as gods.

Cats have never forgotten this.

Benefits Nevada SPCA – www.nevadaspca.org 1:30pm - 4:00pm • Spanish Trail Country Club First class entertainment by award-winning performers!

Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

15

! s d Ki

Enter

the

Contest & Win!

1. How many Officers are in the LVMPD K-9 Unit?

2. What is the name of the original Morgan horse?

Submit by 4-30-12. (Hint: Answers in this issue!)

KIDS Scene

E-mail us your answers and you will be entered to win! Contest@LVPetScene.com

2 lucky kids will WIN A FUN EVENT at the Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix!

pizza, drinks, game tokens

& ride tickets for 5 Guests ($100 value) Finger Lickin’ Ribs – Now Being Served!

1401 N. Rainbow Blvd - Las Vegas, NV 89108

(702) 259-7000 - www.lvmgp.com The Best Birthday Party Place In Town!

Hey Kids!

Harley found his “twin”!

Meet Slim Pickens!

Minature horse owned by Pam MacNaughton.

Harley & Slim Pickens will be in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Henderson on March 17th at 10am.

Parade, Carnival, Festival, Food!

Never iron a four-leaf clover, because you don’t want to press your luck.

What do you get when you cross poison ivy with a four-leaf clover? A rash of good luck.

This beautiful well-designed book is loaded with interesting facts, photos, and illustrations telling the story of pets through the years. It traces the history of animals in the wild, their stages of domestication, and how they became popular as pets. Included are historical attitudes and some wacky superstitions. Each animal has its own interesting history with people. Sheila Keenan devotes chapters to cats, dogs, rabbits, hamsters, gerbils, mice, ferrets, birds, fish, lizards, and snakes.

This book is an excellent resource that will encourage your child’s natural interest in animals and reading.

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Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

The Morgan Horse

By Rose Connolly, Always Available Pet Sitting, Las Vegas

The Morgan Horse is one of my favorite breeds and was one of the first horse breeds in the United States. The Morgan is a very versatile horse and is used in many disciplines including Western and English riding.

The breeds trotting skills were first noticed in the 1840’s when it was used for harness racing.

The original Morgan horse goes back to the stallion, Figure, who was owned by Justin Morgan. Justin Morgan was a school teacher in the late 1700’s. The horse then became identified with his owner and became “the Justin Morgan Horse.” Figure was only 14 hands high but he had remarkable strength and speed.

The Morgan horse is a compact horse with an athletic build, large eyes, an arched neck, and a clean cut head. The most common colors for Morgans are bay, black and chestnut. Other colors include: palomino, cremello, dun, buckskin and silver dapple. The breed standard size is 14.1- 15.2 hands, with some horses over or under this size.

The Morgan is a high-stepping horse that carries their head and tail high. The majestic look of the Morgan is easy to recognize and they have an outstanding disposition. The Morgan is a willing partner for any rider. Morgans are also known as “easy keepers” in that they keep weight on well.

I recently had a conversation with B. J. Schafer, owner of the B. J. Schafer Training Center in Las Vegas, and I learned more about the beautiful Morgan horse. B. J. is a third generation horseperson who is an expert on the Morgan breed. B. J. says ,“the Morgan has the temperament of the Golden Retriever.” “They are a kind and versatile breed that can do it all; ride, trail ride, drive, jump, and they also pull carriages. “The Morgan is known as the horse that chooses you.”

It is easy to see why the Morgan is one of America’s most popular horse breeds and if you get a chance it would be worth your while to attend one of the Morgan horse shows. After you have visited a Morgan horse show, you will really appreciate the outstanding athletic ability of the Morgan and know exactly why they are such a popular breed today.

Rose Connolly is a free-lance writer and pet sitter. She may be contacted at rose@petsittinglv.com.

Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

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3rd Annual Charity Event

Ladies & Gentleman, Start Your Engines!!!

Please join Fly’N Aces at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway for their Annual Need 4 Speed Tournament 3 in support of the “Greg Biffle Foundation For Animals”.

MAY 12-13, 2012 What is Flyball? Flyball is a dog sport in which teams of dogs race

against each other from a start/finish line, over a line of hurdles, to a box that releases a tennis ball to be caught when the dog presses the spring loaded pad, then back to their handlers while carrying the ball.

You’ll get to watch some great competitive racing from teams all across the U.S.!

You can also participate in their HUGE Charity Raffle.

www.flynaces.com

“I like pigs. Dogs look up to us. Cats look down on us. Pigs treat us as equals.” ~Winston Churchhill

? u o Y r o f t e P t h g i R e h t g i P y l l e Is a Potb

By Crystal Kimhan

In 2010, potbelly pigs were added to Clark County’s Title 10 law as a “companion animal”.

What does that mean? They are now in the same classification as a dog or a cat. That means they are required to be spayed or neutered. Also, pigs must be fixed for them to be good pets or behavior/medical problems will probably be the first reason they won’t be the pet you expect!

Are you zoned to have a pig? Did you know not all cities or homes are zoned to have a pig, and that 90% of HOAs still classify pigs as livestock and do NOT allow them? Between your landlord or neighbors not wanting a pig there, or the HOA giving you 30 days or less to “get rid of it” because their bylaws do not allow for them, you may have to surrender your pig pet. This is the third most common reason we see pigs coming to the shelter or rescues.

What is the second most common reason? Teacup Pigs! What are “teacup pigs”? We’ve all heard of the celebrities who have paid $5000 or more for these tiny pigs that could be carried in their purses. Potbelly pigs are a “miniature” pig compared to a 1000+ pound farm pig. We run a collaborative website: www.teacuppig.info, please do your research. Pigs should not be purchased based on size and by touting a tiny, full grown 30 lb pig, breeders can command a lot of money. Freddy and Drusilla, featured in this article, are a bonded pair of potbelly pigs, bought as teacup pigs, now at a little over 1 year old, they are 75 lbs! They still have 4 more years to grow!

Drusilla 18

We hope you will make an informed choice before bringing a pig home as a pet. First, please visit a rescue or shelter and see the full size of an adult pig before bringing home a piglet. They are about the size of a medium dog, just a bit wider, the standard range between 90 lbs to 150 lbs. Pigs do make great pets for the right people… they are clean, super

Freddy

smart, odor free, and easy to housebreak and clean up after. Mini pig pellets are readily accessible here in Las Vegas. They also bond well with their human “herd” and you’ll never have the nuisance barking as with some dogs. Because pigs are so smart, they are not as “eager to please” as dogs are and bonding and respect must be mutually earned. As intelligent as pigs are, they would rather train their owners versus the other way around, they will always keep you on your toes.

As for the cons of owning a pig, do pigs bite? Yes, if need be!

Pigs are prey animals, they are naturally cautious and can bite out of fear or anger. Small children always have food in their tiny hands, food a piggy always wants! They may start out as a cute little piglet, chewing and biting on everything as puppies do, but if a pig learns that he can be top hog in his “herd family”, he can easily become a dominant biter. Pigs must always know their place and training is a must. Pigs can live 20 years or more. Can you make that commitment to the lifespan of caring for a pig? Pigs are still pigs, they need time to root and dig and be a pig. If not given that outlet, pigs can become very destructive in the home, pulling up carpeting and turning over furniture.

So is a pig the right pet for you?

Please see our website, www.vegaspigpets.org, and do your research, ask us questions, see our pigs and then decide!

VegasPigPets, a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Potbelly Pig Rescue & Placement Organization

Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

It’s Spring!

Get Out and Breathe Some Fresh Air with your Pet!

Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

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Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

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Pet Health

Obesity

Killing Our Pets With Kindness

By Chad Bower, DVM Spencer Springs Animal Hospital – Las Vegas, NV Obesity is an increasing health concern for dogs and cats. Just as in people, being overweight contributes to a large number of diseases in pets. The problem can be metabolic, such as with hypothyroidism, but most often is a result of one problem: more calories eaten than expended throughout the day. Indoor pets are especially at risk for being overweight because of reduced activity. Recent surveys indicate that over 50 percent of the American pet population is overweight or obese.

When an animal consumes any type of food, it is broken down into simple sugars in the digestive tract. These simple sugars are readily available to provide instant energy to cells and organs. Extra energy (glucose) that is not needed by the body is converted by the liver into fat to be utilized when food is scarce. The problem in house pets is that food is never scarce. No one likes to see their beloved pet go hungry. Fat is continually accumulated which begins to cause problems elsewhere in the body.

Some connections between obesity and disease are easy to realize. Joints can be over-burdened by carrying too much weight and develop arthritis or the excess weight can contribute to ligament ruptures. Other obesity related problems are less obvious, but equally as devastating. Excess body fat can contribute to becoming diabetic. Diabetes is a serious disease that causes blood sugar levels to soar uncontrollably leading to all sorts of ill effects. Overweight pets are more susceptible to heat stroke because dogs and cats do not sweat to cool themselves, and the fat acts as an insulating blanket over the body.

Respiratory problems and heart disease are caused by and complicated by obesity. Overweight pets are also at increased risk during anesthetic and surgical procedures.

Obesity reduces quality of life and shortens lifespan. One Purina study showed that dogs with ideal body conditions live on average 15% longer than obese pets.

Feeding regimens are the first place to start when addressing obesity. Two

1

VERY THIN - 5% body fat

2

UNDERWEIGHT 5-15% body fat

Consult your veterinarian. Ask your veterinarian if you are underfeeding.

3

IDEAL

16-25% body fat

Great job! Keep doing what you’re doing.

4

OVERWEIGHT

26-35% body fat

Increase exercise and consult your veterinarian about the right nutrition.

5

or three small meals a day, rather than free-choice feeding (keeping a full bowl), allows the body to utilize calories more efficiently and store less fat.

Feeding a balanced, nutritious diet formulated for a dog or a cat of a specific age and activity level is equally important. The amount to feed depends on the metabolism of the individual. Table scraps tend to be high in fats and salt and they are often given in addition to the pet’s regular diet that already contains an adequate number of calories for energy. Also if you are giving treats, be aware that many are high in calories and must also be figured into total food consumption.

The other way to prevent obesity is to increase a pet’s activity levels. This can be difficult with an already obese dog or cat because their stamina may be decreased. They may already suffer from the side effects of being overweight. Consult a veterinarian about how much activity is appropriate for your pet. As weight comes off, you will see a considerable change in the dog or cat’s attitude and energy levels. What was once thought of as an old lazy pet can regain the pep of a young healthy animal. For healthy pets a minimum of 20 minutes of heart pumping exercise daily is recommended.

It is important to not cause weight loss too quickly. Starvation is not the answer to obesity. Cats cannot metabolize fat rapidly without serious ill-effects. Check with your veterinarian to establish an ideal weight and timeline for weight loss. Set goals and commit to regular weigh ins.

Our pets will thank us for helping them maintain an ideal body weight. They will live longer and happier lives as a result.

If you have further questions or concerns with your pets weight, health, or need assistance in formulating a weight loss plan please schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.

OBESE

35% body fat

Can cause serious health problems. Consult your veterinarian about the right nutrition.

Healthy Weight • Ribs are easily felt • Tucked abdomen – no sagging stomach • Waist when viewed from above Ideal body weight for your pet is set by more than just the scale. Body condition scoring (BCS) is employed to gauge your pet’s healthy weight.

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Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • March/April 2012

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Whether you’re planning a trip or simply just want your pet walked, fed and loved while your busy at work, Happy Tails is the answer!

Does your insurance company cover ALL breeds? We do!

Pit Bulls - ok 4

Rottweilers - ok 4 Akitas - ok 4 Chow Chows - ok 4 Doberman Pinschers - ok 4 German Shepherds - ok 4 Wolf Hybrids - ok 4