Houston PetTalk 1209

Page 1

Issue 11: Volume 8

The Definitive Source for Houston Pet Lovers

December 2009

Mrs. Barbara Bush A Holiday Message



Houston PetTalk Magazine

3


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December, 2009

Contents

05 The Scoop

Editorial

Henrietta

18

myself, I am inspired by her ability

experience and memory in meeting

of meeting our Former First

to raise a family that remains close,

you that I will cherish forever.

Lady, Mrs. Barbara Bush. She is

principled and willing to take on dif-

December is traditionally our Holi-

ficult situations for the better good.

day Values issue in which a group of Houstonians share their thoughts with

the one person I have most wanted

Unleashed

to meet and have appear on the cover

Of course, I also love the fact that

Happenings

of Houston PetTalk. My dream finally

she loves dogs. When I first visited

our readers. We hope you enjoy the

came true when Mrs. Bush graciously

the George Bush Presidential Library

words written from their heart as we

agreed to pose for our cover and

and Museum in College Station a few

approach the end of one year and look,

Holiday Food For Thought

share some anecdotes with our read-

years ago, I was struck by how many

with hope, to a new year full of joy, ac-

Canine Health Institute

ers about the dogs that have shared

photos of Mrs. Bush also included a

complishments and friendships.

her life with President Bush. Her

dog. Throughout her life, she has had

From Houston PetTalk to you,

maltipoos, Mini and Bibi, are recent

dogs as companions and she appreci-

have a wonderful Holiday season

Cat Grooming

additions to the family and they

ates their ability to love us and make

filled with laughter and love. Thank

Yuppie Care

definitely have the “aww” factor!

us laugh.

you for your continued support of

Features

Pet Care

Chiropractic Care Cat Cuisine

38

I

can’t begin to describe the thrill

Calendar

33

Editorial

Lifestyle Art

What I have always loved about

Thank you Mrs. Bush for taking

our publication and the animals in

Mrs. Bush is her willingness to stay

your time to share both yourself and

our city that need a helping hand. We

true to who she is. She’s forthright,

your dogs with Houston PetTalk. You

look forward to an even better 2010!

kind and undoubtedly a strong,

have always inspired me and now

deeply valued person. As a mother

you have given me a most incredible

Politics Book Review

Michelle Mantor

Shopping Editorial Legal

54 MarketPlace HOUSTON PETTALK MAGAZINE, LLC 14781 Memorial Drive, Ste. 510, Houston, Texas 77079 281-556-6560 www.HoustonPetTalk.com Design and layout by: Sprouting Creative Andrew Burwell 713-471-3394 www.sproutingcreative.com © Copyright 2009. Reproduction or use without written permission of articles, editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited. Houston PetTalk does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Houston PetTalk does not endorse any specific product or service contained herein; we do encourage you to support our advertisers whenever possible.

On the Cover Presidential Pups Former First Lady Barbara Bush, who is also a first-rate dog enthusiast, opened her home to Houston PetTalk so our readers could meet her adorable maltipoos, Mini and Bibi. Posing here with Houston PetTalk Editor, Michelle Mantor, we must say that Mrs. Bush not only knows how to pick a good husband but she also can pick great dogs! Thank you Mrs. Bush for your generosity in posing for our cover. Photos by Evin Thayer

Tell our advertisers you heard about them in Houston PetTalk!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

5


The Scoop

Calendar

December 2009 Events December 1

Photography, $50 gets you food, drink,

Second annual Christmas Tail sup-

entertainment and a fab “swag bag”!

December 11

porting Lucky Dog Rescue at VOICE,

Visit snapus.org for details.

Shopping Night at Ten Thousand

in Hotel Icon. Cocktails, light bites and one-of-a-kind gingerbread dog-

December 5

houses crafted by the city’s culinary

Paws With Claus at Northshore Park

leaders. Visit luckyrescue.org for info.

in The Woodlands, 9 am to 2 pm.

December 3 Spay and Neuter Assistance Program

book signing, Neiman Marcus, see page 50.

Villages (artesian items from 38

December 20 & 21

countries) in Rice Village, from 6 – 8

Annual “Home for the Holidays”

pm, benefiting HPPL.

Open House at Citizens For Animal

Visit thewoodlandsdogparkclub.org

December 12 & 15

for more event info.

Santa Photos at Lone Star Pet

Protection (CAP), 11925 Katy Freeway from 1 to 5:30 pm. For more information, visit cap4pets.org.

Lodges, Sat. 1-5, Tues. 4-8, visit lon-

(SNAP) presents their annual fund-

December 5

raiser, SNAPSHOTS Celebration and

Santa photos, PETCO River Oaks,

Fashion Show at Winter Street Stu-

2110 S. Shepherd, 11 to 4, benefiting

December 19

dios, 7pm. Hosted by Brett Chisholm

Homeless Pet Placement League.

David Woo Top Dogs and Their Pets

estarpetdoges.com for details.

January 9 & 10 CFA Cat Show, George R. Brown. See houstoncatclub.com for details.

Henrietta On Freedom

F

or those of you that read

(which drove Harold nuts; we both

available in this “non free market

that if it wasn’t bad enough that

my column often, you

knew it was chicken but he felt this

society” that are comparable to

he must subsist on the Milk Bones

know that I frequently re-

was not PC for cats. I told him only

eating sawdust. He says Dalmatia

everyday, he is really twisted over

fer to my cousin Harold. Now, you

my alter ego “Latte Da”, sitting on

started out with free Salmon and

the so-called “toilet-law.” Dogs in

also know that what gets my tail

her thrown at Starbarks, cared what

Venison treats for the masses but

Dalmatia can urinate only 3 ounces

waggin’ and Harold’s tail waggin’

was or was not PC for cats).

after the salaries of all the workers

per day because of the environ-

are usually different. He thinks cats

Not only do I miss Harold, but

in the Salmon treat company were

mental pawprint being left be-hind.

are “interesting” (he was oxygen

we talked on Skype the other day

cut by 90% and a law was passed

As The Lead Dog of Dalmatia says,

deprived at birth), sniffing private

and Harold’s situation seems dire.

that made it illegal to kill Salmon,

the doggie citizens are “killing

areas on the first date is ok (he’s a

For all of his philosophizing on

the workers all went to chase tennis

trees and grass and they have feel-

guy), chocolate is bad for you (he’s

Thursday nights about the benefits

balls at the beach. Milk Bones are

ings too.” I guess Harold will need

a moron) and universal healthcare

of government control, he’s living

the only recipe management knows

to learn to drink less and walk like

is a God given right (he’s definitely

in a socialist country and I get the

how to make.

a girl.

on the left).

feeling he’d order

Harold also says

As Harold’s life has gone to hell

Harold’s dad, my Uncle Henry,

Feline Fajitas in a

was suddenly transferred with his

flat minute if he

vided in the government stimulus

job as a tree excavater to Dalmatia

could.

plan to boost the economy of straw

in a handbasket (which was pro-

(it’s a small spot of a country in

Alas, there will

growers), I haven’t lost faith in him

Europe). Although we had very

be no fajitas in Dal-

yet. I just see this boon-dog-gle as

different opinions on most things, I

matia. According

a ‘teaching moment’. He will come

still liked hanging out with Harold

to Harold,

home and realize the inherent

at the Salty Dog on Thirsty Thurs-

there are

beauty in eating cats...uh, I mean

days. We drank a few RedDogs and

only free

fajitas, drinking all the RedDogs

I always ordered the Feline Fajitas

Milk Bones

he can handle… and peeing freely.

6 www.houstonpettalk.com


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The Scoop

Unleashed Sashas Suds N Duds

F

rightfully creative costumes were all the rage at this year’s Halloween Costume Contest at Sasha’s Suds N Duds, 802 W.

Gray. The winners were of the “garden variety”...a cute trio of Yorkie Flowers. Be sure to visit Sasha’s for unique holiday gifts for your pet, including yummy treats!

My mom is a fairytale mom! Where Is my handsome prince?

Winning Trio - Flower Power

Cap Halloween Walk

R

aising awareness for homeless animals while having some fun with their own pets was the order of the day for the

ne else Since I’m tied to a leash, can anyo catch that robber?

several hundred animal supporters at Citizen’s For Animal Protection’s Annual Halloween Walk, sponsored by Rover Oaks Pet Resort.

Contest Judge, Miya Shay of Ch. 13 News

8 www.houstonpettalk.com

Hershey Grace of CAP shows off winner’s trophy donated by Baccarat Crystal!

Shelby Kibodeaux’s New Job: Scratching Post!

If you can’t catch ‘em, join ‘em

The Winner! A Beautiful Mermaid

Photography by studioHolloman.com

A new breed: Scary-crow-dog


The Scoop Doesn’t your pet

Houston SPCA

A

deserve a day in paradise?

kick-off party and underwriter’s party to get things rockin’ for the Houston SPCA’s Annual Gala made a splash

as party goers got a glimpse of the “Catsanova” inspired theme. Drinks, bites and a mental prep for the gala were all on hand for this group of animal supporters.

Amanda Vanis (Co-chair) David Gugino and Rebecca Chapman

a Theme! Models Inspired By The Catsanov

Suzy Godwin, Bill Murphy, Houston SPCA Board Member Jim Godwin, Evelyn Griffin with guests

Halloween At A Dogs Life Luxury Boutique

A

nother splendid Halloween dog walk and party, sponsored by A Dog’s Life

Pet Boarding • Grooming • Daycare

• 24/7 Drop-off/Pick-up by appointment • Spacious, climate-controlled indoor/outdoor suites • Late night potty breaks and Free Airport Parking!

www.PetParadiseResort.com

Luxury Dog Boutique in Sugar Land

Town Square. The creativity of both pets and children’s costumes made for a very festive affair!

Photography by Keeling Photography

Two convenient airport locations:

Do we look alike?

My mom made me do it.

• Hobby • 7511 Monroe Rd. 713.941.DOGS (3647) • Intercontinental • 14500 John F. Kennedy Blvd. 281.449.DOGS (3647) Houston PetTalk Magazine

9


The Scoop

Pink Power

Pet Fest

A

What do cowboys, cowgirls and spiders have in common? A good

time at PetFest 2009 in Old Town Spring! This annual event brought thousands to stroll the streets, support animal rescue and show off their “creative creatures”.

You know you’re having fun when you only have one shoe left.

A Snow White Ferret? Only at PetFest!

Spunky Spider Steals The Show

10 www.houstonpettalk.com

I wanna be a cowboy...so you can be my cowgirl!

Photography by Posh Pet Portraits

If I said I could do a pirouette, would you believe me?


The Scoop

Happenings Photo Contest Winner

to ending animal homelessness. You can help the cause while hav-

For just a mere $50, you will re-

Congratulations to “Lucy”

ing a great evening by attending

ceive food, 2 drink tickets, valet and

Dunn, our photo contest

SNAPshots 2009 Celebration And

an awesome “swag bag” filled with

winner. Her adorable

Fashion Show, the annual fund-

goodies. VIP tickets are available for

halloween costume photo

raiser for SNAP (Spay and Neuter

$75. To purchase tickets, visit www.

captured our judges hearts!

Assistance Program), sponsored by

snapus.org.

Lucy is the pride and joy

Brett Chisholm Photography.

you to make a difference. Featured

Pampering Reigns! New Daycare & Boarding Facility Opens in River Oaks

designers include Chloe Dao, Billy

Chien de la Maison recently opened

Reid and Tonshea Yvonne. Dana

their fabulously French “dog house”

Tyson of Sunny 99.1 will once again

in River Oaks at 1915 S. Shepherd to

be the gracious emcee as the party

bring pampering to new heights for

gets started at 7pm, Winter Street

Houston pooches. Offering daycare,

of Sharon Dunn. For other

This fun-filled evening will

entries, visit houstonpet-

include fashion, food, drinks, en-

talk.com.

tertainment and an opportunity for

SNAPshots Fundraiser December 3 Spaying and neutering is

“Lucy” Dunn

part of an overall solution

Studios, 2101 Winter St, 77007.

Winrock Animal Clinic, P.C. “The Best Possible Medical, Dental & Surgical Care”

Pat Banks, DVM Susan Schweers, DVM Dave Campbell, DVM

Mon-Fri 7am-6pm Sat 8am-Noon z Sun Closed

6415 San Felipe, Suite I Houston, Texas 77057

713-785-5551 Houston PetTalk Magazine

11


The Scoop boarding and grooming, Chien de la Maison’s owner, Monica Triplett confesses that “after visiting France and realizing the country’s love affair with their dogs, I wanted to extend that treatment of pets as family members and companions to my own business.” Not happy with the care her own dogs were given when she traveled, Monica decided to take matters into her own “paws” and open a daycare and boarding facility of top-notch quality and unbridled customer care. Open 24/7, Chien de la Maison offers everything from tummy rubs to spa treatments. Indoor and outdoor play is also available as well as two very experienced groomers. Stop by for a visit or check out their website to learn more at www. chiendelamaisonhouston.com.

Gift Wrapping Fundraiser For HPPL Need a little help wrapping all of

Paws Memorial Launches New Cremation Service

those Christmas presents? You can

Long time Fort Bend County

have your gifts wrapped while help-

resident and native Houstonian

ing support Homeless Pet

Catherine Dalrymple has opened

Place-

ment League

Paws Memorial Service to offer

at the same

accessible, compassionate and

time! Gift

dignified aftercare for beloved

wrapping will

pets. Having formerly owned and

be available

operated a local boarding kennel,

at Borders

Dalrymple has been involved in the

Book Store

pet care industry professionally for

on Kirby, Decem-

she loves animals. “Our

ber 12 and

pets are our partners

December

and best friends. They

20. Visit www.

are there for us with

hppl.org for

unconditional love and

more infor-

support throughout their life,” said Dalrymple. “They Illustration by Desiree Walton

end-of-life care.” Paws Memorial focuses on the pet owner by providing personal attention and support. With a welcoming facility for the pet owner, they are committed to helping one family at a time in dealing with their loss, fulfilling their wishes and preserv-

many years. Personally,

mation.

deserve the best when it comes to

ing their memories. “That personal touch is of utmost importance to us.” said Dalrymple. Paws Memorial provides free cremation services to working dogs in law enforcement, search and rescue, and disability assistance. Additionally, they support several animal rescue organizations as a way to honor their clients. Located just on the outskirts of Sugar Land off Alt-90, veterinarians, their staff and all animal lovers are

For the Love of Pets At Home Pet Service

Pet Sitting Potty breaks Walks Belly Rubs & Treats We offer competitive rates and can personalize your pet’s schedule to suit both your needs. *bonded and insured

832.651.9428 fortheloveofpets@hotmail.com Call or e-mail us today!

12 www.houstonpettalk.com


The Scoop animals. For more information on sponsorships: Contact Laura McConnell lakoalamac@sbcglobal.net

Help Homeless Pets by Supporting Angel Tree Program Sponsored by Best Friends Pet Care Pets are the latest victims of the economic downturn. As more families struggle to make ends meet, animal shelters are seeing an inflow of pets given up for adoption. “Shelters are being overwhelmed with the large number of dogs and cats released by people who can’t afford to care for them,” says Kim Shelby Kibodeaux, at Surprises Gifts, In Shock At Dogs Gone Wild Photos In Houston PetTalk

Barrett of Best Friends Pet Care, which is in its ninth year of the Best Friends Angel Tree program. “Un-

invited to tour their facility. For

shelters due to economic woes has

premium pet food, recently launched

fortunately, the shelters simply don’t

more information, call 281.342.PAWS

risen, so has the need for additional

two new additions to their successful

have enough food or supplies for all

(7297) or visit www.pawsmemori-

resources at these animal shelters.

Grain Free line, EVO. The new prod-

these newly homeless pets.”

alservice.com.

A local organization, Provisions

ucts include EVO Herring & Salmon

Through Christ, Inc. has been

and EVO Weight Management.

Surprises Boutique Holds CAP Fundraiser

working diligently to assist both pet

Both products are made with qual-

To help address that shortage, Best Friends is collecting donations of food, toys and supplies for

owners and rescues in feeding pets

ity ingredients, supplemented with

needy pets through its Angel Tree

Always a great supporter of our pet

through times of financial strain. If

vitamins and minerals and made for

program. Throughout the holiday

community, Surprises Gifts, lo-

you would like to help in this mis-

both dogs and cats. The EVO Herring

season, animal lovers can visit or

cated at 6100 Westheimer, opened

sion, please visit www.ptchrist.org.

& Salmon is enhanced with Chondro-

call any Houston area Best Friends

protectives for healthy joints.

to select a dog or cat stocking from

their doors to help raise money and the Citizens For Animal Protection

Holiday Adoptions At Houston Pavilions

(CAP) Shelter. A little wine, cheese,

Pup Squad Animal Rescue will be

and shopping for some of the most

hosting Holiday Pet Adoptions at the

unique gift items in Houston made

Houston Pavilions on the first floor

for a great evening.

next door to Books-a-Million through-

awareness for homeless animals at

To find where to buy Natura products near you, visit www.naturapet. com and click on “where to buy”.

the Angel Tree to benefit a homeless pet being cared for a local shelter. Each stocking lists information about a pet in need of a new home,

Sight ‘ems included Hershey

out the holiday season. Pup Squad

The Woodlands Dog Park Club Hosts Paws With Claus Event

Grace and Kappy Meunzer of CAP,

helps save orphaned puppies and

Sponsored by The Woodlands

donors are asked to shop from the

Bruce Padilla of Baccarat Crystal,

momma dogs. Adoptions will be held

Dog Park Club, this annual event

list on the pet’s card. Donations can

Vicky Kozak of Canine Health

every Saturday 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.

includes photos with Santa, pet

also be made over the phone.

Institute, Dr. Mark Silberman of

To learn more, visit www.pupsquad.

friendly businesses with holiday

For information on which shel-

Southwest Animal Clinic and Shelby

org or www.houstonpavilions.com.

merchandise for your pets, rescue

ters will benefit from the campaign,

groups, pet contests and more. And,

please visit Best Friends: at 5602

don’t miss the AIR Show by the

Royalton or 26839 Interstate 45 or

spectacular Houston Canine Frisbee

visit www.bestfriendspetcare.com.

Kibodeaux, animal activist.

Local Christian Group Providing Food For Animals

Natura Announces EVO Herring & Salmon and EVO Weight Management

As the number of pets turned in to

Natura Pet Products, makers of

along with details of the food or supplies needed by the shelter. Since each shelter has specific needs,

Disc Club! Enjoy a fun-filled day with your pet and help support homeless Houston PetTalk Magazine

13


Happy Holidays

442 Sawdust Road The Woodlands, TX 77380 (281) 465-1703 Mon-Sat 10am-7pm Sun 12-5pm

Shop on line at

www.barkerstreetbakery.com

Dogs & Friends From the studio of Margaret Hixon Griffith

Man’s Other Best Friend, when Times are Ruff. 6 2 1 8 We s t h e i m e r R o a d | H o u s t o n , Te x a s 7 1 3 . 7 8 0 . 2 2 7 4 | w w w. w r i g h t p a w n . c o m

14 www.houstonpettalk.com

713.515.7526

mhgriffith@aol.com

All works are oil on canvas and are based upon personal photos.


Pet Care

A Delicate Matter

Solutions For Sensitive Canine Stomachs

F

ood sensitivities, unlike

Intermittent vomiting of food,

food allergies, are not

unusual fecal color or consistency,

caused by an immune

excessive GI “gurgling” and passing

response to the offending ingredi-

of gas are typical.

ent. Rather, they are ingredients the

There are no tests or specific

digestive system cannot break down

diagnostic procedures your veteri-

adequately. Sensitivities can be to

narian can use to determine if there

any ingredient in the diet, including

is sensitivity. It’s all about trial and

preservatives and artificial flavors as

error. Many veterinary specialists

well as proteins, fats and carbohy-

recommend specific guidelines for a

drates commonly found in canine

food elimination feeding trial.

diets. Unlike allergies that generally

1.

2.

Al S. Townshend, DVM, WellPet Staff Veterinarian

The diet should have a

to have sensitivities as well as aller-

limited list of ingredients in

gies. There are three different foods

order to reduce the risk of exposure.

to choose from; Rice and Duck, Rice

The diet should be very palat-

and Lamb and Rice and Salmon. The

able to be certain the dog will

dry recipes are complemented by

3.

eat it.

4. 5.

comparable canned formulas. The dog should be transi-

There are only five major ingre-

tioned to the new diet slowly.

dients and no chemical preserva-

Feed only the prescribed diet

tives, dyes or artificial flavors. Each

(no treats, snacks, human

diet contains one unique protein

food etc…) for a minimum of two

For long term feeding, the

months (provided there is no nega-

diet should be complete and

tive reaction initially).

and one carbohydrate. If you or your veterinarian suspects that your pet may have

balanced and contain ingredients

The Wellness® Simple Food

food sensitivity, the Wellness Simple

ears and paws, sensitivities usually

the dog has not previously been

Solutions® recipes have worked ef-

Food Solutions recipes may be the

are expressed in the digestive tract.

exposed to.

fectively for many animals thought

answer. See page 2 for local retailers.

cause reactions involving the skin,

Houston PetTalk Magazine

15


Boarding • Grooming Daycare • Training

irst Night Free Is Our Policy

for each new Friend we make!*

26839 I-45 • Spring (281) 298-6500 5602 Royalton • Houston (713) 664-6111

It’s Best To Stay With Friends www.bestfriendspetcare.com *Applies to first night of boarding only at any Best Friends Pet Care center. Good for one free night of boarding per pet in total. First Night Free policy may not be combined with any other promotional boarding offers. Visit www.bestfriendspetcare.com for details.

16 www.houstonpettalk.com

SM



Holiday Food For

Thought By Michelle Mantor, Photography by Evin Thayer

I

love the tradition we began three years ago of asking several Hous-

Helping, Courage, Appreciation, Wisdom, Patience and Sincerity. Of

tonians to share their thoughts about some important virtues for

course, each is an avid protector of animals and enjoys the company of

our annual Holiday “Food For Thought” Issue. As yet another year

one or more pets. Thank you to our writers for sharing their “Food For

wanes, it’s the opportune time to reflect about what is valuable to us and to look with hope and a renewed spirit toward the future. This year, we are honored to have Mrs. Barbara Bush sharing her

Thought” and we hope you enjoy reading their ideas. Best wishes this holiday season and be sure to give your pet something special in their stocking. Also, if you have room and love for

thoughts about Family and pets with our readers. All of our writers

one more, offer a home to a homeless animal and make this season of

did an excellent job of writing “from their heart” essays on virtues of

giving the “gift of life.”

18 www.houstonpettalk.com


Family From my childhood home in Rye, New York, to my life with George Bush in Texas, China, Washington and Maine (and many places in between!), we have always had dogs. Dogs have provided us with comfort, joy, and laughter over the years, and have become a very important part of our family. As we celebrate the holidays this year, I am happy to share with you some memories of a few of our beloved family members. At age 18, George was the youngest pilot in the United States Navy and was teased endlessly because of it. In fact, when I visited George in North Carolina during his flight training, he asked me to tell everyone I was 18 and not my real age, 17! Soon after my visit to North Carolina, George asked my mother to send him a photo of me. Much to George’s dismay, she sent him one that was several years old and featured one of the first dogs in my life, a cairn named Sandy. The photo made George look like he was dating a 12 year old with a puppy! Shortly afterward I sent him my senior photo which did not feature a dog. George and I still laugh as we remember the photo of me with my beloved Sandy! George and I have had several dogs together during our 64 years of marriage. One of our most beloved dogs was C. Fred, a beautiful golden cocker spaniel who was given to me as a birthday present. When George became the Chief of the U.S. Liaison Office to the People’s Republic of China, C. Fred moved with us across the world! I must confess that George did not want to take C. Fred with us initially, but there was no turning back after I shipped cases of dog food over to China. We both ended up being very glad C. Fred accompanied us, as he brought so much comfort and helped us feel at home. The Chinese people were not used to seeing dogs (or Americans, for that matter), so we would get many funny looks when taking C. Fred for walks. After C. Fred died, we got our English springer spaniel Millie. She lived in the White House with us, and was best known for her book Millie’s Book which raised millions of dollars for family literacy. We were always grate-

ful for the normalcy she brought to our lives during those four years. One of our favorite times in the White House was when Millie had a litter of puppies. Our friends, family and the White House staff loved seeing those little puppies run and play on the South Lawn! We gave George W. and Laura one of Millie’s puppies named Spot. Spot lived with them in Texas and moved to the White House with them in 2001. He died early in George W.’s Presidency, making Spot the only dog to have both been born and died in the White House. George and I are now the proud “parents” of two maltipoo dogs. Bibi is a year and half old and weighs 9 pounds. Mini (also known as “Mini Me”) is 6 months old and is half the size of Bibi. I must confess that at ages 84 and 85, house training is not as easy as it used to be for us. We can’t seem to run after them fast enough! We love both Bibi and Mini dearly and are grateful for the warmth and laughter they bring into our lives. From our family to yours, we send you our best wishes for a happy holiday season full of love.

- Mrs. Barbara Bush, Former First Lady of the United States of America, with “Mini” & “Bibi” Houston PetTalk Magazine

19


g n i p l He

the corridor d e ll a c e c la p a ard about le left dogs because they e h I d n a m o My m n where peop gged mom to take me to s u o H in y lt of crue ore. I be m y n a m e th m. t did not wan ot food and went to see them to stay in the e g d e te w n o a s w e r the re and even a ul place. Mom It was an awfre were dead dogs everywheshe let me help e o car because thtold her I could handle it sg bowls along the baby horse. I the feeding and waterin some people had fill road that put there. w anyone o h d e r e d n o w I love for these t s lo e v a h ld u co leave them dogs and justaround them. with trash allthink animals I guess they are trash too. see any live We did not right before we l animals untiWhen we walked were leaving.very sickly pupup, we saw a o hair and was py. He had n es. He was shakskin and bond really pretty ing but he ha gold eyes. amed him n d n a im h k We too oked like he lo e h e s u a c e b Spirit is eyes to live. h in it ir p s e had th the vet to get to it ir p S k o to We is looking e H . d e x fi e g his man eighs a whopw e h d n a w o good n ds. ping 35 pouny helping this Helping. B e other people will s a w d e n r a le The value I im a chance at life. I hop the Corridor. in h puppy it gavethe other dogs that are still want to help you can. Please help if “Spirit”

ero, age i r r e u G e i c a r -G

20 www.houstonpettalk.com

7, with


Courage

I met Essie la st February w conference for hile I was dow n in Baghdad my Brigade. working on a W going to see S press addam’s old pa e had some extra time and I ha la rescued out of a dumpster an ces or to go see puppies that d my choice of some soldiers d were hiding trumped pala had ces. in the green z on e. For me, pupp There were fou ies r puppies run feeding spare ning around meat from the playing that soldiers had be chow hall and had mailed fr en puppy chow th om the USA. at a sergeant’ Essie looked li played with h s wife ke a cotton ba er for two hou ll a rs and came ba sequent trips ck the next da nd I fell in love. I to Baghdad, I y. O m Iraqis were cra a cking down on de sure to visit Essie. When n all my subI heard that th 30th handover stray dogs in e , I asked if I co the green zon e prior to the Ju uld adopt Ess People always ie n . e sides the red ta ask if it’s easy to bring a d og home from pe (Essie and her three siblin Ir as bomb-snif fing dogs in gs were unoffi aq; it isn’t. Betr cially passed aining to kee a cargo slot fo p them alive), off ra it’s impossible to Houston. T dog to fly from Baghdad to get he SPCA volu nteers come to Iraq and esco rt d outposts all ov ozens of dogs from various er Iraq down in to Kuwait to fly home. It’s tough befrie you always won nding a dog in Iraq because der in the back of your mind what their fate will be. I am in aw age these volun e of the courteer animals and w s display just out of love of anting to help so home the frien ds they made d ldiers bring uring deployment. To be w illin neighborhood to g to drive all over one’s re willing to drive scues dogs is one thing; to be all over Iraq to rescue dogs is completely dif ferent. Essie flew hom I was able to m e to Houston in April and ak join her. Than e it home in September to ks to the coura ge of the SPC International A volunteers, I a m able to spen my first Chri d stm sie. I also thin as home in Texas with Esk Essie was pr etty courageo to make the tr us ip, She might ha whether she knows it or not ve been born in . Iraq, but she is a Texan at hea rt.

- Maggie Whit e, United Sta Army Captain s , with “Essiete ”

Houston PetTalk Magazine

21


n o i t a i c e r p p A

ic r with the class ia il m fa y bl a ou are prob thusiastiotball game, y h the crowd responds by en t time to fo l oo h sc h ig the perfec er been to a h ate?” to whic , it seems like ch If you have ev x, eight – who do we appreci a ro pp a s y a ur, si s the holid ciate? me cheer, “Two, fo their team. A of e m a n o do you appre e. She greets e h m th w s g – te n s a ti ve ci li ou re n sh pp cally our ow ting at she a ple question to ts me know th h is maybe her way of shou apply this sim me home, my dog, Coco, le ic ful bark (wh family! Every time I co , prancing feet and a play member of my ociated with a mona s a er il h ta g g n vi in often ass reciate ha rtwith a wagg absolutely app ciation” is very value of a home or stock po I re d pp n A “a . d e) or m w a e my n in the rtainly These days, th etary increase omy, this is ce obably on ec t n ce re e folio. Given th ople might hope for, and pr at pe something th ding te.” a ci re reciation, accor re, pp even “app a of g in n atu mea But the deeper ary, is “recognition of the n on pr ti ic ex es to Webster’s d ce of” and “an hile n ca ifi n g si , or tude.” W worth, quality roval, or grati pp a , mateon ti a ir m ny number of a sion of ad to ed li pp a it can be efer to think of pr I ), this definition c. et , rs life. ine, art, ca rial things (w ople (and animals!) in my ve a e pe rtunate to ha in terms of th eden, I was fo w ds. S in p u g ny good frien a Growin m d n a y il ving fam I am able to wonderful, lo 16 years ago, on st ou H ere, I truly to Since moving twice a year. When I am th . or em visit only once oment that I spend with th s a prom A . y er on appreciate ev e city of Houst ay in 1989 th te a ci re pp a pl e here to I definitely yer, I first cam welcoming nature a pl is n n te l a fession ndly and getic zed at the frie y positive, ener eir n a and was ama m so re a e s. Ther g to offer th of Houstonian who are willin eerleaders! le op pe – ty ci t like ch people in this gement, almos Lisa, here as well ra u co en d n a y wife, support ough to meet m I was lucky en r hardciation for ou re pp a t e, a rs re u g co a ) Of at! have is truly a ly appreciate th Tennis & Athletic Club, I to the club. It on ti u ib (and I certain ia tr er n ll co a endous of the G nment. As part-owner employees who make a trem oductive enviro pr d n a y pp a d icate ate life. king in a h working, ded stop to appreci the time to think about er my days wor ev d n en e w sp t to a e th bl s ke gift to be a ntly, living our live year, too), we all should ta sy bu so most importa , re d a n s e a u s th of u of t to os st e M e re their valu season (and th ves, recognize li r ou ically! This holiday in ) ts (and pe es enthusiast le m a op n pe r t ei n th a t rt the impo anked #46 r to them. Shou ly r on e ti a m ci r o re f pp , a r ye express our alleria nal Tennis Pla

, Professio Owner of G n t o r o a r P K d s n la a ic r e N g a tly Club Man n e r r u C , ld r o in the w b, with “Coco” lu C c ti le th A Tennis &

22 www.houstonpettalk.com


Wisdom

I’ve had many pets throughou uniquely spec t my lifetim ial and when we are fortuna e. Although I loved them a others, it’s an ll te enough to h extraor ave one that tr , a few were I’m lucky enou dinary journey. a nscends man gh to have on y ways thought of her as an ol e of those relationships wit h my Briard, d so to accept, when Remy. I’ve alto have fun or ul. Her ability to discern be simply when tween when to What I’ve com to protect, when stay out of th e to realize is e way are alw have: wisdom ays on target . Having good that she has something ma . ny of my oth intuition, jud wise and Rem er pets didn’t gment and pe y has shown ti rc ep me and again tion are all pa When my chil that she know rt of being dren were sma s w an amazing hat to do, ofte ll , sh e was gentle a agility when n before I do. nd although sh it came to not grew and mov e is a st bi ep g ed from the n ursery downst ping on crawling babies. A dog, she had herself at the airs to a bedro s the children foot of the sta om upstairs, sh irs each night Being the anim , standing rea ew a l lo ve r d th y to protect her ould position at I am, other Some she likes pe “her ts (our Yorkie m ix, Sake), som were inevitably brought in d”. others she sim to the house. ply ignored (o e she doesn’t (o ur guinea pig no matter wha , Petunia). Bu ur Maltese mix, Friday) an t her personal t d fe them and acc epts them as pa elings are, she still protects rt of the famil She equally k y. when to say “b nows when to be nice to a st ranger and ack off” like th e men approach ed our car. Aft time a not-so-nice group of er her award-w mance as Ku inning perfor jo the Killer D og , they wisely direction. went the other One her greate to be humorou st displays of wisdom is k nowing when s. She has seve ral funny an which is charg tics, one of ing our little dogs and just ond, jumping at the last secov nearly as hum er them. The little dogs don ’t find this orous as Rem y and I. Of co I’m feeling bl urse, whenever ue, say, “I want to she pulls out her funniest tric make you feel best medicine. better and lau ks as if to ghter is the ” Very wise in deed. Now, in the su nset of her life needs a lot of care. I’ve carrie , she has slowed down and d her hind leg help her get ou s in a sling to tside, I’ve clea n ed many “acc her daily med idents”, given ications, spoile dh and made her a special bed in er with home cooked food the kitchen. I’ve had the m than I could h ost spectacular 14 years w ith ave I know the tim ever hoped for. I love her im her…more mensely. But e is near that she will no lon feet as I work. ger lie at my I used to fear having to ma let her go but ke a d I’ve she is ready. S come to realize that she wil ecision to l tell me when he knows my h will relieve m e of the decisio eart will be torn and she n. Her wisdom the very end, w just as it has for her lifetim ill guide us to e. -

ichelle Man M tor, Houston P etTalk Publis Editor, with “ her and Remy”

Houston PetTalk Magazine

23


e c n e i Pat

d one I expressions an derof ll fu en be ainly un has always id, I could cert n to her soul, k er a than th s u A so ” , s! er a h to come slower e hristm C My Mot ed s a em se ow sl g s in a h until th ing, not as “you’re nothing, noth g ole “wait”….. heard often w bi se a u ca en be th t d n n ea a s, l of paem stand what sh wishes, big hopes, big dream s gave me my first spoonfu ig hristma Christmas! B ! As a child, C ed which en pp a h y ll patience; from ekof ce magic fina n a rt po us the im e we’re se tience. anages to teach matter the reward or outcom l take m lf se it fe li ent. No takes wil Of course, en the time it e and achievem th t in pl en as less ci ti is pa d be s, to rned tient person h a pa le grows focu a ’t e n ev ve a li h be e I ately a ing, if w its toll. ress, so ultim st ss le d n a worry ng. on life and livi ght me better outlook always tau My dogs have a “pet rent patience— fe if d y tl h ig just a sl I don’t mean s. rt so of ” pce patien iting for the pu a w of s y a d t those firs ht, or the ing every nig idents” in h w op st to py “acc lt when those exasperation fe e stop-before-youth happen, or even when those pricey loafts scream momen rks in them. Anyone a m h tience ers have teet that without pa s ow n k ps pu you. with road ahead of g n lo a ve a h you’ll g about is the in lk ta m a I t a No, wh dogs over en in my own se ve I’ ce en ng waits ti pa ey bear up to lo their th ow .h … rs ea the y sit for ork or learn to ngry while I’m at w re they a so hu ues. ow n k ou y food when ssess virt ut they also po B . d te ci ex d er and was an first Schnauz udson” y m s a w ” k “Roc ght “H when we brou ock five years old me tell you….R o t le , n a M . fe d would d into his li t idea at all an ention a th e k li ot n did nt att ore the consta attenhis best to ign A him. nd by on ed ow st be t him. Hudson nd yapping a a g in ck li d n just chewing a his patience— d n u fo k oc R time they like. But ers—and over tion, I mean now what it’s h k ot ou y y n a s, m og d d n when two and loyalty a own patience If you’ve had is ve h lo d of n fi es u to rt ing to d a nd vi ed, Hudson h ll soon be learn e’ ss h pa , like our pets fi k ow oc n t R h er g ds. Aft s alone ri were best of bu hile River flow r. w d n A . g n lo a a inforced in “River” came ?? I have no fe like patience, are nicely re s” k a “O , ow n ’t k in life, tolerate, I don portant virtues im e… u tr ’s it children. Alas, ful four-legged er d on w r ou PRC Local 2, K t, is g our lives by lo o r o te f Me

gsly, Chie n li il B k n a r F with “River”

24 www.houstonpettalk.com


Sincerity

Make-Up Artis t To Hollywoo That Wants T d Actresses, R o Be Beautifu ock Stars, Soc l ialites and An Being a Houst y Woman on ia n for over 15 people have “com years and wor e and gone” th king in the m I also realize th ro ake-up indust at many relati ugh those years. I’ve made ry, many some wonderfu friendship su onships were sh ch as mutual l or fr t ie li nds, but ve d and not based respec As the Holida on the values y season appro t, tolerance and most impo of true to grow and im rtantly, since a rity. prove and look ches, it seems natural to re flect on our li my life that a forward to a n ves, find way re going to st s and the test of ew year. Reflecting on the thinking mos relationships time because th tly of family in ey are sincere as the true rela year. Yes, I en , I fi tionships that joy my friend will sustain m nd myself s but family My youngest is…..w e year after sister transpla ago and with nted herself fr ell, family! her brought a om San Antonio new adopted fr to be homeless. to Houston se iend, Dodger, Dodger’s fam veral years a Westie Terri ily was in the nately, for Dod er that was goi military and ger, my sister ng was was eager to fi I have to admit nd companion moving overseas. Fortuth a t I a m a sh n ing a new busi ip. extremely busy ness, my tim person. Betwee e is limited. I but since I live n work, events have always w d alone and m , and start anted to adop y time is so li decided again t a companion mited, I st it. I wanted to have the perf ation for my new companio ect situn So I spent the before I adopte d a pet. next 12 years alone until m moved in with y sister Dodger. Our situation is unique. M attendant for a major airlin y sister is a flight e and is gone ly for long pe frequentriods of time. S o had many ch erished momen Dodger and I have ts while she is The first thin awa gI tional love an noticed from him was unco y. d sincerity. D n odger has no d dilie or mislead esire to anyone, whic h I find quite ing. He also refreshis content wit h ve food, water, a frequent treat ry basic necessities; or daily walks. He is now part rawhide, and his of my family The sincerity . of a n im a ls is of human soci unique in the ety, where (un world fo truths, manip ulations, and rtunately) halfdeceit are part day life. Yes, of there are man y wonderful pe everykind hearts a ople with nd are those amon good intentions but we kn ow there g us that are se other negative lf-promoting or behaviors. Kn owing that Dod have waiting for m g ea er is forward to spen t home makes me smile an d look ding time wit hh from the day. Sincerity is a im and unwinding to many years quality that w e cannot affor w d to part with. has been teach ith Dodger and the many th ing me. I look forward ings we can le arn together. But for now, h - Edward S e

anchez, Make

-Up Artist, wit

h “Dodger”

Houston PetTalk Magazine

25


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Houston’s Premier Bird Store 7414 Westview Drive Houston, Texas (between Wirt & Antoine one light North of I-10)

Tu-Sat 10-6 Sun Noon-6

www.adventuresinbirdsinc.com

713-681-5299 Houston PetTalk Magazine

27


zak tute, Jeff and Vickey Ko

alth Insti Founders of Canine He

lth Institute Courtesy of Canine Hea

28 www.houstonpettalk.com


n I y a W e h T Leading r o F e r a C l a c i Med s l a m i n A n o i Compan e t u t i t s n I h t l a e Canine Hotography by Evin Thayer By Michelle Mantor, Ph

W

shund, Annie, ruptured hen our miniature dach ergency surgery, we a disc and underwent em unknowns. There were were facing a future of guarantees survive the surgery; no no guarantees she would would ever be ain; no guarantees she she would ever walk ag did survive own. Thankfully, Annie able to function on her overy, she er two full weeks of rec the surgery. However, aft e in a wheelr hind legs and a lifetim was still paralyzed in he chair seemed inevitable. and we ve the best life possible We wanted Annie to ha fore acceptust every possibility be were determined to exha re other oposis. We began to explo ing a wheelchair diagn

h Institute, discovered Canine Healt tions and by chance, we e blessing. which was an incredibl the future nie, we were unsure of As worried parents of An n an aggresute stepped in and bega but Canine Health Instit ed some weeks, Annie had regain sive rehab plan. Within than we ever s. She has come further strength in her hind leg G! d today, she is WALKIN thought was possible an ort that evbe sufficient for the eff “Thank You” will never dicated to our nine Health Institute de ery staff member at Ca er grateful! sweet girl. We are forev

The Taliaferro Famil y

they also have the facilmore affordable rate, but ine Health Can , ago r yea one t jus ounded ity right here in Houston. de a major est Freeway, Canine Institute has already ma Located at 3800 Southw ion animal pan com g vin mo on nded in 2008 by Jeff impact Health Institute was fou diagnosis the ere wh ure fut a into surgeon, and his wife care forward Kozak, a Houston spinal tream. In order ins ma is n pai of ent r founding vision was to and managem Vickey. Jeff notes, “Ou our pets, let’s for ure fut new this d companion animals at to understan provide medical care to t. pas e provided at human examine the a caliber equal to the car gnose and dia to lity abi the by, e to explain that Canine In times gon hospitals.” Jeff goes on c pain was oni chr or ry inju , ma trau diligent discourse with treat animal Health Institute seeks availability and ts cos e itiv hib pro ns, understanding that restrained by ny Houston veterinaria ma pet the for n the solutio collaboration of human of technology. Typically, mutual education and paralysis or ty, bili mo ited lim of life erinarians was the secret was either a medical doctors and vet er cases, the pet oth In a. asi han eut n animal care. perhaps eve to optimizing companion surgery. ry ssa ece unn one y brought forth erg may have und The underlying philosoph Canine Health like s tor ova inn that rapid and to tion nks vic Today, tha by the Kozaks was a con have a medical s ner ow pet tral core of do y cen onl the at Institute, not thorough diagnoses are medicine at a rt e-a f-th te-o sta g rin facility offe

F

stands to reason that the best medical care. It blem is not specific and if the diagnosis of a pro blem will be less than accurate, treating the pro successful.

Diagnostic Imaging

gnostic evaluation, the To ensure a precise dia es heavily on imaging medical community reli iographic machines technology, including rad nce an, or magnetic resona such as X-Ray or CT-Sc tor that allows a doc to Imaging (MRI) machines l whether it be the skeleta “see inside” the patient, se w, imagine if tho system or soft tissue. No t quality, the doctor bes the machines were not see the problem and may not be able to clearly treat the ailment. properly diagnose and from just ten years Let’s look at an example

Houston PetTalk Magazine

29


titute

lth Ins Courtesy of Canine Hea

Aquatic treadmill

h Institute

Lobby at Canine Healt

e available for animal ago. MRI machines wer not nearly as precise and medicine but they were slogy. Typically, a diagno clear as today’s techno ne spi the of y x-ra (an m tic test called a Myelogra e dye into the spinal aqu iop rad a g ctin inje after

knee surgery After my dog Dexter had hip displaysia, h wit sed and was also diagno Institute to find I turned to Canine Health I was worried e. car al the best post-surgic the reconstrucage dam that Dexter would other knee. The tive surgery or even his titute was amazIns alth staff at Canine He h care, kept wit r xte De ing! They treated repair and his the g ssin him fit without stre cted leg is the same muscle mass in the affe really nice about as his other leg. What is is that although the te titu Canine Health Ins lly over, they still rehab for Dexter is officia . It’s been 6 months continue to monitor him xter is doing great. since his surgery and De his rehab was well Every dollar I spent on spent!

Kirb y Atwell

30 www.houstonpettalk.com

tified Canine Rehabilita tation practiced by Cer the ine erm det to d an use hum n e ns. “We provid canal) would have bee tion RVT’s and veterinaria ine. can a of s leg d xihin ma the to injections so as cause of paralysis in grade pain management was not very clear, the many patients”, says Dr. in e Because the Myelogram car mize conservative those of e Som y. ger sur ibe and Medical Director. doctor might prescr Stephen Pittenger, DVM, in certain t tha wn sho e hav ay very same cases tod recover without surinstances, the animal can the philosophy of Canine gery thus underscoring Pain Management at thorough diagnosis lies sis, managing pain is Health Institute that a After an effective diagno e. car al dic me e al care. At Canine Health the core of effectiv key to an animal’s medic operates te titu Ins t alth He ine ities are utilized to trea To that end, Can Institute, multiple modal in Texas rs nne sca CT re and I mo l MR king the anima the most powerful conditions while also ma ion animal care to ensure ities include: dal mo designated for compan se comfortable. Tho ncrief, Mo sti Kri sis. gno dia ions (allows highly rapid and accurate -Arm Directed Inject 1. C ment and art dep g gin ima the s the needle) RT(R)(MR) direct accurate placement of y s from around the countr Agent ron alu has trained with expert Hy r ula • Intraartic quality diagnostic images to produce the highest roid Ste • Mini-dose ns (nerve root available. elective Spinal Injectio • S in ers ord dis ny ma t tha g din xus blocs, epidural Next, understan sleeve blocks, disk, ple without ly ive vat ser con ted medicine can be trea steroid) Institute duplicated the surgery, Canine Health Joint Injections • an hum ophies seen in pain management philos liaquatic and land rehabi medicine with detailed

n with CT scanner

so Dr. Brode and Eva Burle


ed by Dr. Rachel Addle 2. Acupuncture – Provid man ed by Dr. Jackie Doval 3. Chiropractic – Provid y/Massage – Provided 4. Trigger Point Therap by Ken Bain, LMT 5. Stem Cell 6. Laser Therapy d 7. Therapeutic Ultrasoun on 8. Electrical Stimulati

Rehabilitation

top-level diagnostic In addition to providing ement, Canine Health imaging and pain manag tive care, including pre Institute offers rehabilita ement, injury manageventative, weight manag care. A good exercise ment and post-operative long way in providing the program can truly go a le for our pets. best quality of life possib companion animals ny Unfortunately, too ma ners don’t care, but ow e live in pain. Not becaus us when they hurt. tell because our pets cannot tters is that animals Further complicating ma preserve their life in to instinctively hide pain may be experiencing pet r the wild. Signs that you pain include: • Panting bility • Limping or limited mo cautiously re • Moving slowly or mo • Hiding • Hunched up posture nful area (example: a • Licks or chews at a pai with a back problem pet may lick their foot b) because their foot is num , yelping at ing cry g, • Vocalizing (whinin

ine C-Arm injection mach

recently announced an Canine Health Institute Hicks, renowned Veteriaffiliation with Dr. Dan nder of Neurology and nary Neurologist and fou ). (www.vnnshouston.com Neurosurgical Specialist assistant Lisa Bunk, Dr. Hicks, along with his care and is treating gic RVT, provide neurolo nights and weekends, ing emergency patients dur lacking in the Houston a service that has been

aging Magnetic Resonance Im (MRI)

community. antages of adding the One of the primary adv t care and surgery is tha services of neurologic ted to Canine Health when a patient is presen tment (surgical or trea sis, Institute, the diagno litation is all performed non-surgical) and rehabi

touch) for longer periods of • Remaining sedentary at one location. time p or regain mobility To help animals either kee New At Canine Health y hniques tec ny ma n, pai c riti : Stem Cell Therap Institute or perhaps reduce arth tiat Canine Health Ins of 2009, Canine Health cursor cells that can Beginning in December and services are employed Stem cells, which are pre se erinary rea vet y inc to onl d the use e are om ls with specialized funcills bec cel y Institute will proudl tute. Underwater treadm become other types of of recy extract, process and ance and the buoyan an, brain or red blood facility in Texas able to strength, endurance, bal tions such as tissue, org ills, l’s own dm ma trea ani d the Lan m ss. fro ng tissue, among other ls stre t airi cel inject precious stem the water decreases join cells, are capable of rep ized hed l all be accomplis nagement are also util body. This procedure wil massage and weight ma things. pe. y important factor in enerative as well an sha ver m a Stem cell therapy is a reg in 1.5 hours, which is to get animals in optimu alth y, le care, Canine He the cells. Previousl roach to medical care and Ensuring the best possib ensuring the viability of anti-inflammatory app for linia abi shipped to Califor tified Canine Reh matic injuries or develextracted cells had to be Institute employs two Cer can be used to treat trau so t e oci nsi ls died during tra Adrianne Brode, Ass e applications that hav processing and many cel tation Practitioners, Dr. opmental disease. Som rilly The rth ls on site dramatica Eva Burleson, RVT. e treatment of osteoa being able to process cel ate Medical Director and been successful includ y. rap and ss of stem cell the cess is very in-depth . increases the effectivene CCRP certification pro tis and tendon injuries wlfor kno ne and sce lls al ski dic ed me is planning clinical inanc the adv Somewhat new to Canine Health Institute provides significant es ng olv litation. m cell therapy inv of disorders working alo companion animals, ste edge in the area of rehabi vestigations of a variety l, ma m the fat of the ani ary care veterinarian. extracting stem cells fro side each patient’s prim cencon a ting jec rein re and harvesting the cells Neurologic Ca a. cells into an affected are animals will need trated amount of stem Recognizing that some e, gical neurologic car advanced medical or sur

Houston PetTalk Magazine

31


Institute at 713.341.9520 contact Canine Health at www.caninehealthinor visit them on the web stitute.com.

h Institute Rehab at Canine Healt

A Client – What To Expect As Is An Canine Health Institute ry Prima Extension of Your re Ca ry Veterina

dical facility, we work “As a complementary me arts’ primary care veterin closely with the patien s say e” car t line patien ians to provide top of the key Vic , cer Operating Offi Co-Founder and Chief ts do come directly to Caien pat gh Kozak. Althou ny patients are treated nine Health Institute, ma artions from their veterin based on recommenda is ns aria erin d with vet ian. Working hand in han alth He ine cess of Can a key principle to the suc seen as an extension are y the e aus Institute bec rk diligently with those of primary care and wo y a comprehensive and veterinarians to emplo

plan. coordinated treatment for Canine Health Indid If your pet is a can ate either speak with your stitute’s services, you can or treatment and referral veterinarian to discuss alth He ectly and Canine you can contact them dir t your veterinarian and tac con Institute will then es, m process. In some cas facilitate the referral for tic ma obvious as in a trau the treatment needed is tion er cases, an evalua accident or injury. In oth to comprehensively d me for will need to be per ms of breed disposition, examine your pet in ter weight, gait, age, etc. te, they are commitAt Canine Health Institu better, one dog at a ted to “making the world dog, cat or other compan time”. So if you have a es, vic inquire about ser ion animal and want to

e referred to My Lab, Blade, and I wer after Blade suffered Canine Health Institute de was really helpa shoulder injury. Dr. Bro to improve Blade’s ful in identifying a plan underwater treadstrength. By utilizing the we were able to mill on a downhill grade, er work without focus on increased should . adding impact problems caring about the y ver are ff All of the sta ecially helpful to dogs and people. It is esp be involved in his me that I”m allowed to ng there, and that treatment. Blade loves goi is important.

Cathy Farrell

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Pet Care

Cats Groom Themselves, Right? Yes, No & Maybe!

M

By Linda Lee, Owner of Fat Cat Flats

any cats are natural

grooming. Shorthaired cats should

off your cat with scissors. A cat’s

groom, ask questions about the

groomers. However, if

be bathed twice a year at change of

skin is extremely thin and it behaves

groomer’s experience with cats. If

they were removed from

seasons, longhairs with silky coats

much like “pantyhose”. A little nick

your cat is not sedated, make sure

“mom” too early, were bred for certain

four times a year and Persians (and

can produce a long tear. If your cat

there is another person

characteristics such as the long,

any heavily undercoated cat who

gets

matted, consider

undercoated hair of Persians, or are

mats) should receive a comb-out

a

lion cut (scis-

aging, they may need some help.

every few weeks with a full service

We have all watched a shorthaired

soring

bath groom every six weeks. The

Orange Tabby spend an hour in a

modifying factors are

sunny window fastidiously washing

allergies or continuing

face, paws and various other parts.

hairball problems.

This is a customary practice in the

Where can I find the time

cat world. Most cats like to be clean.

to do all this combing? If time

They also want their litter box and

is a problem, consider a lion cut

surroundings neat and tidy. In fact,

where the cat is shaved to resemble

many litter box problems stem from

a little lion with a big mane and

not keeping the box up to your cat’s

pommed tail. The upkeep on this

standards.

cut is every three to four months. We

able to help hold your cat. There are few regulations in the grooming

Cats can’t do all this cleaning

do lion cuts on short and longhairs

alone. They shed or perhaps they

alike to solve these problems and

were bred for that big bouffant coat

the shave produces a sleek look. Cli-

should be done with seda-

with a regal mane, tail and feathery

ents tell us that their kitty seems to

tion). Be sure to ask your groomer

feet. They need us to keep them in

enjoy less hair by being more active

how they work and make it clear that

fine trim.

when they get home.

scissoring is not to be done.

The alternative is professional

avail-

A word of caution; never cut mats

industry, so it is up to you to ask

If you choose a professional

questions or obtain a recommendation from your vet. Fat Cat Flats is located at 1516 W. Alabama. For more information, visit www.fatcatflats.com.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

33


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Houston PetTalk Magazine

35


Health Animal Chiropractor* “For dogs that want to enjoy life.”

Chiropractic Care Dr. Doval’s Family Practice

R

Jacqueline A. Doval, MS, DC (AVCA)

404 Westheimer @ Taft | 713.627.WELL (9355) | www.docjackie.com

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Unlike for humans, Texas state law

when the doctor would travel

requires veterinary clients to obtain a

miles to see patients? One of

referral from their treating veterinarian

Houston’s own is bringing back those

before seeking chiropractic care. Vet-

days of personalized, detailed, compas-

erinarians from all over the world have

sionate and devoted attention to the

referred their patients to Dr. Doval, who

Texas family of humans and their pets,

has the basic and advanced training

Dr. Jackie Doval, D.C.

certificates approved from the Ameri-

Dr. Doval has been providing

can Veterinary Chiropractic Associa-

chiropractic services since 1992. Her

tion (AVCA). The AVCA is celebrating

patients are adults, children and pets

its 20th Anniversary this year setting

too! “I am the chiropractor for ALL

the highest of standards for post-grad-

walks of life. I treat horses, dogs, cats

uate education and certification for

and people who don’t kick or bite,”

chiropractors and veterinarians.

laughs Dr. Doval. Aside from her sta-

Pets that come to Dr. Doval for

tionary practice in Montrose, she has a

treatment may have sports injuries,

mobile practice of which she notes, “If I

accident injuries, arthritis, nerve

haven’t driven there, I’ve flown there!”

problems or other maladies. Not

Located at Westheimer and Taft,

only can Dr. Doval help your pet via

Dr. Doval’s office is a very comfortable

chiropractic and exercise, she has a

and peaceful place for healing. She is

solid network of traditional and com-

truly someone that is welcoming and

plimentary human and veterinary

puts her human and animal patients at

healers: a rolfer, massage therapists,

ease immediately. “Being a true family

trigger point therapists, animal re-

chiropractor brings me joy. I’m not like

habilitation specialists, animal

the serious doctors portrayed on TV.

communicators and holistic

I don’t wear “the white coat”. It’s just

veterinary

not me,” says Dr. Doval.

acu-

Being a good

punctur-

communi-

ists and

cator and taking

chiroprac-

time with each

tic-friendly

patient is

Enhances Digestion

also a trade-

Good Breath

mark of this

Healthy Skin, Coat, And Teeth

nationally and

Lean Body Mass

internationally respected chiropractor.

excellent pain reliever or solution

Just who are some of her patients?

for overall wellness. If you or your

TV/movie personalities, a Kentucky

pet experience aches, radiating pain,

Derby winner, canine performance

odd gait or stiffness call and sched-

athletes, famous YouTube canine per-

ule an appointment with Dr. Doval

sonalities with their humans as well as

at 713.627.9355. Visit www.docjackie.

neighbors, friends and anyone in need

com to download veterinary referral

of pain management.

forms.

Supports Immune System

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36 www.houstonpettalk.com

emember the good ‘ol days

referring veterinarians. Chiropractic can be an


Health

Cat Cuisine Feline Food Controversy

E

by Dr. Mark Silberman, Southwest Animal Clinic

ven when times are tough, pet

cats’ diets as well as the routine use of

owners still find ways to make

a dry food has potentially predisposed

sure their furry companions

a large percentage of cats to diabetes,

have the right food. For many cat

obesity and several other issues, includ-

owners, that food has always been

ing blockages in the urinary tract. The argument

a high quality dry kibble. Some experts

is that as obligate

are now saying that

carnivores, cats are

these commercial

unable to fully uti-

diets are at the center

lize carbohydrates

of an epidemic of

as an immediate

obesity and diabe-

energy source and

tes among our feline

the excess carbs found in these cereals end up

friends. So, how do

being stored as fat.

you know what’s best

Is there an easy, or

to feed?

even a right answer to this

As with most desert creatures, our cats’ ancestors evolved

debate?

home

away from home

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to obtain most of their water from the

First, cat owners should realize that

One owner’s pet(s) per home

food they ate. In the cat’s case, the

millions of cats have eaten dry commer-

Pre-screened for compatibility

majority of their moisture came from

cial diets for many years and done very

hunting lizards, small rodents, birds

well. Although nutrition does play a

and insects.

part in diseases like diabetes, inflamma-

And, unlike their canine cousins,

tory bowel disease and urinary obstruc-

these cats didn’t routinely eat plant

tion, other factors, such as genetics and

material as a significant portion of

environmental issues, also influence the

their diet. Cats evolved to be obligate

progression of these illnesses.

carnivores, meaning that all their nutri-

281.651.PETS (7387) petsareinn.com

Next, choose foods wisely. There are

tional needs can be met through eating

many commercial diets, canned and

animal tissue. In fact, some early com-

dry, prepared by companies who have

mercial cat foods were deficient in cer-

invested years in developing nutrition-

tain amino acids found only in meats

ally sound diets for pets. Don’t be

and animal fats. This caused heart and

fooled by fancy label claims or celebrity

vision problems in numerous cats.

endorsements.

Today, almost all cat foods are com-

Est. 1982

If you and your veterinarian decide

plete and balanced. Why the worry?

that adding canned foods to your cat’s

There is concern that most of our

diet is a good idea, remember to start

pet cats are eating dry cat food made

slow. Sudden changes in diet can be

with significant amounts of cereal

hard on a cat’s digestive system or could

grains. In a recent paper published in

cause them to stop eating entirely.

the Journal of the American Veterinary

Feed small meals frequently

Medical Association (JAVMA), there is

throughout the day to mimic a cat’s

speculation that the use of grains in our

natural “grazing” activity. Houston PetTalk Magazine

37


Art Memories

Your Pet In Art A Great Gift & Keepsake

A

s pets have become accepted family members, more options are

one-of-a-kind momento that can capture just the right moment or expression

available to creatively keep their memory alive for many years

to preserve a pet’s likeness for all time.

beyond their life with us. One way to keep our pets close to our

heart is to “immortalize” their likeness through art. Whether you commission

Detailed below are Houston PetTalk sponsors available to create a beautiful painting for you. Learn more about their technique and style:

a portrait for yourself or as a gift, there are many styles and artists to create a

Delton Gerdes

Margaret Griffith

Nancy Davis Keely

As a young lad, Delton began his art career by

With many of her works displayed at galleries in

Nancy is known for creating very soulful, unique

winning a 6th grade contest in his school’s Easter

Houston and NYC, Margaret Griffith specializes

pet portraits in oil. Also working from photo-

Art Contest. He followed his heart into a world of

in oil on canvas paintings that are based upon

graphs, Nancy has been painting for over 20

art and he now boasts 40+ years as an impression-

photographs.

years and she has studied in Italy as well as at the

istic painter who creates colorful, life-like portaits.

She often

Glassell School of

He pays close attention to capturing a pet’s

places pets in

Art here in

personality, making his watercolors fresh and not

a landscape

Houston.

setting, hunt-

Also an

ing scene or on

accomplished

their favorite

photographer,

chair to capture

Nancy has

their likeness.

a keen eye

Margaret notes that she “fell in love with paint-

for capturing

ing dogs when she attended the famed Westmin-

expressions and

ster Dog Show in NYC” and she has been hooked

personality in

ever since. She boasts numerous collectors from

her art. Wether

you commission an

oil painting or request a beautiful photo, Nancy will provide a one-of-a-kind memory that will last a lifetime. Prices vary according to complexity. To view Nancy’s amazing ability to capture the likeness of a pet from their photo, visit her website to view the comparisons at www.nancydaviskeely.com.

“over-worked”. To create his art, Delton works from one or more photographs and can piece together multiple photos of pets to create a grouping. His clients first view a sketch of the proposed painting before the final piece is completed. Pricing ranges from $185 for an 8 x 10 to $260 for an 11 x 14 with added subjects at $40 each. Visit his website at www.gerdesart.com to view his work and also look for a special reader discount in his ad on page 39.

38 www.houstonpettalk.com

Houston to Chicago, Sante Fe and Chicago. Prices for Margaret’s art range from $550 to $1000 based upon size and complexity. To inquire about a painting, contact Margaret at mhgriffith@ aol.com.


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Houston PetTalk Magazine

39


Pets & Politics

Bones & The Ballot Box Mayoral Race Update

I

By: Dusty Gilbert , Founder of bareCommunications

n the City of Houston, the date is

this issue are already known, although

Targeting and breaking-up dog fighting

overseeing the welfare and treatment

set and the race is on! Scheduled

many of the recommendations have

rings and performing regular sweeps of

of animals.

to face-off at the polls December

yet to be implemented.

stray animal havens, like the Corridor

Citing that BARC is incapable of

12, mayoral candidates Annise Parker

In Parker’s BARC Policy Brief, she

of Cruelty, are also on Parker’s to do

handling the number of animals in

and Gene Locke are weighing in on a

explains that inadequate leadership,

list. Yet, recognizing that funding will

its care, Locke believes that adequate

plethora of issues as they compete to

funding, public and staff education

continue to be a challenge, Parker says

facilities and good management

win the affection of voters.

and collaboration with outside agen-

she is committed to leading the way in

practices are among the solutions to

Consistently making headlines

cies (non-profit and governmental)

pooling community and governmental

Houston’s animal control.

and prompting public controversy,

are at the foundation of the BARC

resources to achieve much needed

BARC animal control has become an

issue. Further, she explains that these

reform.

Locke plans to recruit and educate

important issue in this race and will

inefficiencies have resulted in the inef-

Houstonians to take responsibility

most likely stay stay on the agenda –

fective use of taxpayer dollars as well

no matter who wins.

as an inability to fulfill the quality of

“If elected mayor, I will do everything within my power to make sure BARC becomes a humane and adequately funded no-kill shelter,” ~ Annise Parker

life requirements of residents. tation and oversight to create a coalition

“As mayor, I will personally review the progress towards these goals with the director on a monthly basis to ensure that we continue to move forward.” ~Gene Locke

modeled after New York’s grant winning

Serving as City Attorney under

10 year no-kill transition program. Ad-

Mayor Bob Lanier and an advisor to

other challenging issues, especially

ditionally, she plans to restart the FIX

Mayor Lee Brown, Locke believes the

in areas like the Corridor of Cruelty.

Parker plans to utilize expert consul-

With a strategy that is three-fold,

for their pets, increase funding for spay and neuter programs and reform BARC – moving the bureaus focus to adoption initiatives and a lowering of the rate of euthanasia. Additionally, Locke says there are

A former City Council Member

HOUSTON program which increases

issue of animal control falls under

Abolishing and prosecuting dog

and City Controller, Parker, who also

spay and neutering initiatives through

the first duty of any mayor, to protect

fighting, containing and rehabilitat-

served as a committee chair under the

community partnerships and consider

the city’s citizens. Additionally, to be

ing abandoned animals through

Mayor’s 2005 Animal Protection Task

the transfer of BARC’s adoption respon-

considered a first class international

community partnerships and public

Force and lead the Controller’s audit

sibilities to community groups that

city, Locke believes that the City of

education are three of his top animal

of BARC, says that the solutions in

have been historically more successful.

Houston must be more proactive in

control priorities.

40 www.houstonpettalk.com


Houston PetTalk Magazine

41


Book Review

Pet Parade

Top Dogs And Their Pets: By David Woo

T

wo time Pulitzer finalist photographer

Alan Bean, Former Secretary of State James Baker

and Dallas Morning News Photographer

and the “Art Guys”, Michael Galbreth and Jack

David Woo has created a beautiful coffee

Massing.

table book featuring

Portions of the proceeds from Top

portrait photogra-

Dogs and Their Pets will go to the

phy of influential

Cesar & Ilusion Millan Foundation,

people and their

which offers financial support

pets, titled Top Dogs

and rehabilitation expertise to

and Their Pets. This

pet shelters throughout the

hard cover book is

United States.

a star-studded col-

Other star studded “top

lection of musicians,

dogs” in the book include

actors, broadcast

Tom Hanks, Nolan

personalities, athletes,

Ryan, Kinky Friedman,

politicians and busi-

Cesar Millan, Roger

ness leaders posing for

Staubach, Ty Murray,

candid shots with their

Dr. Phil, T. Boone

pets.

Pickens, Lou Dobbs

And, there are sever-

and many others.

al Houstonians featured in the book as well! Our very own President, George H. W. Bush and Former First Lady, Barbara Bush; Denton Cooley,

Book Signing Event In Houston With David Woo Neiman Marcus - Houston Galleria December 19, 2 pm to 4 pm 713-621-7100 Purchase this great holiday gift at www.topdogspets.com

Mr. Alan Bean

42 www.houstonpettalk.com

Mrs. Barbara Bush

President George Bush

Dr. Denton Cooley


Book Review

Houston PetTalk Editor Michelle Mantor sat down with photographer David Woo to find out more about the making of Top Dogs And Their Pets:

I knew I wanted to create a book for a national audience. I had been

gave him the stink eye. It’s one of my

dog with the name of Buttercup like

favorite images in the book.

a football under his arm. I was also

taking my dog Chester to dog parks

When I was photographing W.

and began noticing people with pets

Herbert Hunt with his three dogs, a

George Herbert Walker Bush, (#41),

were everywhere and I decided to

gust of wind came and knocked the

mailed me a copy of his dog’s paw

create a book of famous people and

backdrop over on them (but no one

print to be in the book and a nice

their pets.

was hurt!)

thank you note.

create this book?

HPT: Were there any funny mo-

HPT: Which of your “subjects”

David Woo: About five years ago I

ments in conducting the photo

surprised you the most?

wanted to produce my second por-

sessions?

David Woo: I was surprised how

trait book. My first book, co-au-

David Woo: When I was photo-

small Jimmy Johnson’s dog was.

thored with Richard Pruitt, was titled

graphing Greg Biffle with his dog

I was thinking he would own a lab

“ Texas Women”. This book was fun

Foster was just ignoring him. Greg

or a German Shepherd, not a little

and a regional book that sold 10,000

was trying to get Foster to look at

Yorkshire Terrier. It was great to see

copies in about four months.

him and come closer and Foster just

a man of football fame hold a little

HPT: What made you decide to

surprised when President

View fun videos of several photo sessions at houstonpettalk. com

ll Z

New Location!

New Location Location New

New Location!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

43


Holiday Shopping

Winter Cool as ICE! Holiday Finds

Bone Appetit

This bowl may actually be too pretty to use but go ahead and spoil your pup anyway! Available at Gone to the Dogs...And The Cat Too, 2421 San Felipe.

Feline Frame Bone-Jour

Say hello to the coolest collar you’ll see this holiday season. Available at www. fondrenfivestarkennels.com.

44 www.houstonpettalk.com

Showing off your cute kitty is easier with a beautifully crafted frame by artist Michael Aram, available at Gone to the Dogs... And The Cat Too, 2421 San Felipe.


Emporium Elegant Eats

Food and treat accessories for the style conscious. Available at Barker Street Bakery in The Woodlands, barkerstreetbakery.com.

Fancy Food

Coordinating accessories by Arthur Court Pewter make great gifts for the pet owner on your list. Available at A Dog’s Life Pet Salon in Spring, www.adogslifepetsalon.com.

Trendy Travel

Let your pet go where you go in this handy but fashionable dog carrier sling available at Carter’s Pet Depot, 9333 Katy Frwy., www. petdepot.net/carters

Holiday Glam

Need we say more? Available at Pawty Palace in Katy, www. pawtypalace.com.

The Purr-Fect Stocking Stuffer

Make it personal with a one-of-a-kind collar for your dog or cat. Available at A Dog’s Life Luxury Dog Boutique, www. shopadogslife.com.

Stylish Structure

Need a little style to organize your pet’s leashes. This charming and functional wall unit from Arthur Court Pewter is available at adogslifepetsalon.com.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

45


Henrietta’s Pick of the Litter

Eat, Drink And Be Merry!

Carter’s Pet Depot Henrietta’s Musing: “Why eat just one

cookie when you can eat the entire box? I just love variety!” Product Profile: Delicious and nutritious baked goods adorned with holiday flair are great gifts for your pet or a friend’s pet. All natural ingredients. Gift boxes, individual treats or gourmet cakes are available at Carter’s Pet Depot. About Carter’s Pet Depot: Located at 9333 Katy Freeway in the Echo Lane Shopping Center, Carter’s Pet Depot has over 6,000 sq. ft. of pet supplies for every pet imaginable. In addition to a dog boutique and gift department, Carters has a large selection of premium dog and cat food specializing in super premium, all natural & holistic brands as well as fresh, frozen and raw pet diets. Full service grooming is

offered seven days a week. www.petde-

pot.net/carters. 832.358.1600.

Gone To The Dogs… And The Cat Too

A Dog’s Life Luxury Dog Boutique

great way to start and end each day. I have a

extra “merry” if they make it in a Big Gal size.”

bowl for everything...drinking, eating, differ-

Product Profile: Cotton t-shirt/dress embel-

ent holidays, bad hair day, you name it!”

lished with Merry Christmas in rhinestones.

Product Profile: Ceramic bowl adorned with

Other holiday styles are in stock along with

Santa Paws inscription and Santa’s belt.

plenty of sizes. Available at A Dog’s Life

Available at Gone To The Dogs…And The

Luxury Dog Boutique.

Cat Too.

About A Dog’s Life Luxury Dog Boutique:

Henrietta’s Musing: “Drinking in style is a

About Gone To The Dogs…And The Cat

Located at 16121 City Walk Blvd, Sugar Land

Too: Located at 2421 San Felipe, this unique

Town Square, this adorable boutique has

“historic house” is a collection of the most

everything you will ever need to pamper your

unusual items for pet enthusiasts in Hous-

pet from the latest fashions and accessories

ton. There are plenty of stylish and useful

to fun gift items, bakery treats and premium

products such as organic shampoos, collars,

food. Luxury pet beds, strollers, pet jewelry,

bowls, treats, beds, couture clothing and

fashion collars, sweaters, treat jars, hair acces-

more but there is also a smorgasbord of items

sories and more await you!

for people who love pets. Wine sets, books,

Watch their website for the many events and

frames, decorative items, golf club covers and

specials at the store in celebration of their 5th

the list goes on. You MUST stop by and see the inspiring gifts for the pet lover on your holiday shopping list. 713.522.0780.

46 www.houstonpettalk.com

Henrietta’s Musing: “Love this dress! I will be

Anniversary! www.shopadogslife.com. 281.340.3647.


Houston PetTalk Magazine

47


Editorial

Mrs. Barbara Bush A Tribute To My Favorite First Lady

By: Michelle Mantor

“Giving frees us from the familiar territory of our own needs by opening our mind to the unexplained worlds occupied by the needs of others.” – Mrs. Barbara Bush

B

arbara Bush needs no intro-

is this more evident than in the many

daughter Doro was visiting their home

and pays no mind to politics but rather

duction. We know her as For-

photographs of her at the George Bush

in Maine with her dog and Bibi had

calls it as she sees it. She is comfortable

mer First Lady of the United

Library. As I walked through the library,

such fun with her newfound playmate.

with who she is and feels no need to “be

States of America, mother to President

I noticed that many photos of Barbara

After Doro left, Bibi was searching for

fancy” as we say where I’m from in West

George W. Bush, grandmother to a

Bush included a dog at her side (or in

her friend and would run back and

Virginia. In a world of political charla-

gaggle of Bush grandchildren, a witty

her lap!). From Sandy, a dog she had

forth to the cottage and peer through

tans and self-driven agendas, she is an

and compelling speaker and author, a

in her teen years, to C. Fred and Millie,

the windows. “It was so sad that I had

inspiration to honesty and integrity.

strong and steadfast supporter of her

each who became authors, to Sadie and

to convince George that she needed

Mrs. Bush….Thank you for giving

family, an advocate of literacy and of

now to Bibi and Mini, canines have a

a friend. It really wasn’t that hard to

so much of yourself and your family

course, as a person that appreciates the

way of capturing Mrs. Bush’s heart.

convince him,” said Mrs. Bush with her

to making our country a better place.

companionship of dogs.

On the day of our photo shoot, I

characteristic nononsense wit.

Her love of dogs is a theme that

was incredibly nervous and excited at

plays out through her lifetime. No place

the same time. I was so grateful for the

When asked

opportunity and I had tons of questions

about house train-

that I knew we wouldn’t have time to

ing, she said that

Learn More

discuss. I tried to focus on what our

it’s not as easy as it

I encourage everyone to

readers would want to know or perhaps

used to be but that

learn more about this inspir-

bits of information that the public may

Mini is doing very

ing lady, Mrs. Barbara Bush,

not know about Mrs. Bush, etc.

well. When I con-

by touring the George Bush

Alas, after months of worry, Mrs.

fided that it seems

library in College Station.

Bush was so gracious and relaxed that

tougher with small

This amazing museum holds

she put us all at ease right away. We

dogs and that I was

fascinating icons of history

just chatted and never officially had an

still having trouble

including a section of the

“interview” session. She spoke freely of

with mine, Mrs.

Berlin Wall, gifts from foreign

how the dogs love the beach in Maine,

Bush asked how

leaders, letters from George

how special Millie was, how keeping up

old they were. I admitted they were 2

From your stand against segregation to

to Barbara written while he

with Bibi and Mini is challenging and

and 3 years old, and I got the famous

your countless hours of volunteerism,

was defending freedom as a

she even confided that yes, these two

“you should know better look” which I

you are an inspiring role model that

Navy pilot in World War II,

very cute four-leggers get to sleep with

found funny because one of the things

embodies selflessness.

the Presidential Limousine

the President too!

I have always loved about her is that

On a personal note, you have given

and an unsurpassed collection

Bibi came along after Sadie passed

she is straightforward and will scold

me an incredible memory and experi-

of photos that give a unique

on. She was part of a litter of Maltipoos

you if need it, whether she knows you

ence in meeting you. I will be forever

look into our nation’s past.

that belonged to a family member.

well or not.

grateful to you for taking the time

www. bushlibrary.tamu.edu

This past summer, Mini joined the family. Mrs. Bush explained that her

48 www.houstonpettalk.com

She is and always will be my favorite First Lady. I love that she is genuine

to share yourself, your pets and your home with Houston PetTalk.


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meet Sonny & Cher

two beautiful wire haired fox terriers, with lots of energy & love to give. They are very sweet, but also very active & love to romp & play in the yard then crash on the couch & sleep with their head in your lap. Cher could benefit from some obedience training as she likes to chew on magazines! Shaggy Dog Rescue is a 501 (3)(c) non-

profit rescue group dedicated to saving Shaggy Dogs from B.A.R.C., and H.C.P.H.E.S restoring them to good health and readying them to go to new loving homes, all dogs are spayed/neutered, micro-chipped and fully socialized before adoption.

Please visit our web-site for adoption applications and information on other dogs available, and for donations!

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49


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713-622-7776 A rare-breed of rug, durable and stylish. For more styles available at Olivine, visit www.dashandalbert.com.

Clothing & Accessories for the Discriminating Pet Hydrosurge Bathing System Treats from “Sasha’s Bakery”

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

51


Pet Ownership

Biter Beware

Texas Law: Liability Issues

I

n Texas, the purpose of “dog

something as the hog “was stalking

bite” law is to assign liability

me just like a cat stalks a mouse

for any injury to a person by a

every time he catches me out of

domestic pet. This article will help

the house.” Then one day as John

you protect yourself by showing you

was going to his

how a court answers the question-

charged him

liable for John’s injury.

have helped to cause the injury.

To put it in legal terms; in Texas, as an

On rare occasions, an owner of

owner or custo-

dog that is “dangerous” can escape

dian

liability for injuries. For instance, the owner may claim he had no

pickup, the hog

reason to know the dog is “danger-

“Who is responsible for this injury?”

ous.” However,

The first question a court

courts will hold

will ask is whether the dog

that the owner

is “dangerous.” In Texas,

should have

owners of dogs that are

known about

found to be “dangerous” are

the danger if

treated as if they owned a wild

the dog has

animal and are held “strictly

previously

liable” for any injury caused by

bitten some-

that dog.

one. This is often called the

When a Dog is a “Wild” Animal

“one bite rule.” Essentially, a dog owner

Judges often look at what pre-

gets one

vious courts have decided

bite

to help them answer their

free,

questions. This is called

and

prec-

after that

edent.

he is liable.

One

Also, the

of-

owner of a dangerous

ten quoted case that shows very clearly how the court looks at dangerous domestic animal injuries is actually about a pig. I like to call it the Story of Cujo, the Hog. John and Paul were neighboring pig farmers. John’s hog escaped from his farm and was roaming on John’s land. John sent a note to Paul, warning him that he needed to do

52 www.houstonpettalk.com

and

(loosely, the current person in

bit

charge) of a dangerous dog, you are

him

strictly liable when:

se-

1. You have knowledge that the dog

verely. Based on the facts described above, the court decided

is dangerous 2. You permit the dog to run at large 3. The dog injures someone

(1) the hog was acting like a wild animal and was “dangerous,” (2) Paul

Usually, “strict liability” means

should have known that it was dan-

there are no defenses. If your dog

gerous, (3) Paul let the hog get out of

is dangerous, is out of its own yard

his property, and (4) the hog injured

and bites someone, you are liable

John. The court held that Paul was

no matter what other factors might

dog will not be liable if the injured person assumed the risk of injury, such as trespassing in fenced yard, baiting the dog to attack, or ignoring proper warning signs.

When a Dog is just a Dog 1. If you have no reason to believe that your dog is dangerous, you will be liable for injury if you are negligent. Negligence in handling your dog occurs when:


Legal

By: Carroll Ray, owner of Meadowlake Pet Resort Illustration By: Desiree Walton 2. You are the owner or custodian of the dog 3. You should have known that

cause the injury? Below are a few

leash law is considered proof of

key points about what is considered

negligence. Of course, a dog leash

negligence.

law may or may not apply to certain

under the circumstances at hand

Evidence of negligence depends

there was a danger that an injury

on the circumstances of each case.

Unlike strict liability, there are

could occur

Some courts have used the following

many defenses to negligence. A

situations to determine if a person

person can assume the risk of injury,

was negligent:

such as choosing to go into a free

1. If the dog is loose on the streets

play dog park. Also, a court will

the injury

in violation of a local dog leash

sometimes decide that the injured

As you can see, there are several

law

person action actually caused the

4. You were negligent (you didn’t exercise reasonable care) 5. Your lack of care actually caused

questions here. Are you the “person in charge” of the dog? Should you

2. If the owner fails to attempt to stop any attack

have known that an injury could

3. If the dog has bitten someone

occur? Did you exercise reasonable

before at home or in its yard

care? Did your lack of care actually

In particular, violation of a dog

public areas such as a dog park.

injury, such if a dog runs up to a person riding a bicycle and he panics and then runs into a tree.

How to avoid liability for dog bites in Texas 1. Obey local leash law 2. For rescue pets, have them evaluated by a trainer 3. Take puppies to socialization classes 4. For high energy dogs, bring them to doggie daycare for additional exercise

Houston PetTalk Magazine

53


Marketplace

Training With The Right Touch Makes A World Of Difference

Leash Pulling Chewing Aging Issues Recovery from Injury

Terrie Irvin

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713. 301 .2794 tsirvin@comcast.net

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54 www.houstonpettalk.com

A portion of all sales benefits Citizens for Animal Protection. Purchase at Rover Oaks and CAP locations, xlibris.com, amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com Visit www.joyleebooks.com for more information


Happy Holidays From

Hollywood Frame Gallery...

May all your dreams come true! 2427 Bissonnet • Houston, Texas 77005 • (713) 942-8885 Toll Free: (866) 942-8885 www.hollywoodframegallery.com hollywoodframe@sbcglobal.net



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