November 2015

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Issue 10: Volume 15

K9 COPS

November 2015

The Definitive Source for Houston Pet Lovers

WORKING DOGS of Houston Police + Search and Rescue

HOLIDAY SHOPPING: The Ultimate Guide For the Perfect Gift

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DAYCARE LESSONS What Our Dogs Teach Us

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November Issue

Editorial

H

Issue 10: Volume 15 www.houstonpettalk.com

ere’s the really cool thing about

need. So cool! In this issue, I chose to

Gunnar in video action, visit our website

dogs: the more you learn about

focus on Police K9’s and Search & Rescue

and enter the search term “Gunnar”.

this dynamic species, the more

Dogs. Their efforts are potentially deadly

I have just about used up all of my

you appreciate their vast array of abili-

for them and they save untold numbers

space talking about the feature which

ties. I think I was born loving dogs and I

of humans. They do it with a “can do” atti-

belies how interesting I find it! However,

can’t remember a time in my life when I

tude, expect nothing but playtime in return

I would be remiss if I didn’t promote our

didn’t have a canine by my side. My dad

and they are eager to serve. How I wish

annual holiday gift guide that highlights

loved dogs so I guess it was destiny that

there were more humans like these pups!

fun and useful gifts for the pet or pet lover

I would too. This love was initially for their

During our photoshoot at the Houston

on your shopping list. It’s time to get into

companionship but as I have aged and

Police Dept. training center, I was fascinat-

the spirit of Christmas and start thinking

been exposed to more, I have come to

ed with “Gunnar”, a large black intimidat-

about the purr-fect gift. And, we hope

have a deep appreciation for the many

ing German Shepherd. Wow…what an

you choose to purchase from our loyal

ways in which canines assist humans.

impressive dog. He was so strong he

sponsors. Without local vendors, shopping

They find dangerous objects, they alert

tumbled the officer in the bite suit but yet

would not be as fun. Try taking your dog

for deadly diseases and seizures, they

he was approachable and friendly. I have

along to shop online. Not such a good

rescue stranded victims, and they chase

been around Police K9’s that I was told not

time. And, many of our sponsors donate to

down bad guys. The list goes on and that’s

to touch (which I obeyed with precision)

local pet charities so shopping with them

why I wanted to dedicate this issue to the

but Gunnar was just like a friendly pet one

this Holiday season would be a great way

Working Dog.

moment, but on command he was ready

to say thank you.

In past issues, we have featured assis-

to take down ANYTHING. The fact that he

tance dogs that alert for health issues such

even knows the difference was amazing.

remember no cooked turkey bones for

as low blood sugar. The dogs were trained

I got to observe Gunnar going through

your pets, just hugs and some homemade

by Jeff Murphrey at Canine Country Club,

his training regimen with his handler,

pumpkin treats)...enjoy!

which he then donated to individuals in

Officer Greg Smith. If you would like to see

Working For A Living Tactical Operations Canine Handler, Officer Gregory Smith and “Gunnar” of the Houston Police Department show us the impressive skills of our local K9 Police force in our feature story - pictured here with editor Michelle Mantor. Also see Gunnar in videos on our website!

Photo by Evin Thayer.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving (and

HOUSTON PETTALK MAGAZINE 14781 Memorial Drive, Ste. 510, Houston, Texas 77079 281-556-6560 www.HoustonPetTalk.com Design and layout by: ANDREW BURWELL www.andrewburwell.com © Copyright 2015. 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. All photos ©copyright depositphotos unless otherwise stated.

Tell our advertisers you heard about them in Houston PetTalk!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Event Calendar NOVEMBER 2015 11.4.15

11.6.15

Puppy Play Day at

10th Annual Feast with the

Galway Hooker Irish Pub,

Beasts at the Houston Zoo

sponsored by Houston

with guest entertainers,

Humane Society.

Better Than Ezra.

www.houstonhumane.org

Event is 21+ only.

For the full list of events, visit: www.houstonpettalk.com/events

Hey Party Animals...Did you know you can add your own pet related event to our event calendar online? Hover on EVENTS in the main header bar and select ADD AN EVENT.

www.houstonzoo.org

11.6.15

11.6.15

11.7.15

Corridor Rescue’s 2nd

8th Annual Kingwood

Charity Gala at The Heights

Annual Divots for Dogs Golf

Barkfest at Kingwood

Villa. Find more details at

Tournament at Longwood

Town Center Park. www.

www.scoutshonor.org.

Golf Club.

kingwoodbarkfest.wix.

www.corridorrescue.org

com/kingwoodbarkfest

Scout’s Honor Rescue

11.9.15-11.15.15

11.21.15

To honor the men and women who serve our country, the

For the Love of Food

Houston Humane Society commemorates Veteran’s Day by

Trucks Festival at

offering free pet adoptions for all active and retired military

Rosenberg Animal Shelter.

personnel. Find out more at www.houstonhumane.org.

Event raises money via food sales for Fort Bend County Animal Services.

11.21.15 29th Annual Celebrity

11.21.15 Posh Pets and Pinot, Canine

Paws Gala Benefitting

Couture Pinot Tasting at

Citizen’s for Animal

Houston Via Colori, Street

Protection at the Royal

Painting Festival. www.

Sonesta. See page 22.

centerhearingandspeech.org

www.cap4pets.org

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Link Rd

Where in the WORLD is PetTalk?

Y

ou never know where on this planet you might find a PetTalk reader enjoying their copy! Snap a pic of one of our readers and send it to info@houstonpettalk.com.

Amanda Haynes in Bend, Oregon, at Bend Brewfest. She said she loves her newly adopted poodle from Poodle Rescue of Houston. Congrats on your new BFF, Amanda!

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Barbara Blue enjoying Pet Talk in Aruba. She is missing her canine babies at Fondren 5 Star Pet Resort.

Marla Press is keeping it real at Skogafoss waterfall in Iceland. Looking good, Marla!

Have fun on your wonderful adventures.

Henrietta

Revenge And The Prada Purse there is a tree, tirelessly producing

two months wasn’t so bad if revenge

the elephant in the room. It’s awk-

oxygen for that nitwit and she definitely

could be this sweet.

ward. So I might as well address the

owes it an apology.

Being the strong left-brain that I am,

beast. Yes, my column got booted for

The encounter with Felicity made me

two, count them TWO issues. I’m sure

realize that not only did I need to exact

among the patrons at this ritzy hotel and

you noticed this travesty, which has

revenge on DL and her wallet, but I also

spa, my wardrobe was rather lacking.

never happened before in the history

needed to get out of Dodge so I could

Oh, what to do about that…go shopping

of my penmanship that commenced in October, 2003. Twelve years

it didn’t take me long to realize that

Dodge the ridicule of my fel-

of course! I could hear the Rodeo Drive

low four-leggers.

of the East calling my name: “Henrietta,

of monthly columns and I

But where should

Henrietta, you will love all the baubles

get booted for Jack Hanna

I go, I pondered.

and luxuries on Worth Avenue because

and the Houston Mayoral

To the beach? No,

YOU are definitely WORTH it my dar-

Candidates. I suppose it

that would re-

ling”, said the little voice in my head.

could be worse. I could

quire a swimsuit

Yes, I agreed and trotted off to the Land

have been booted for the

be worn on my

annual CAT issue. Oh the

well-fed body. To

horror - I can’t imagine what I would do other than slit my paws.

the mountains? No, that would require climbing and breathing hard. To Europe? No, that

of Oz-car De La Renta.

I strolled the promenade and gazed in the windows wondering what fine item I should bestow upon my rebuffed self (well, actually very buffed self after

Is my ego wounded?

would require a S.W.A.T team.

all those spa treatments). Alas, I spot-

Duh! I tucked my tail and

To a spa? YES!! That was

ted the item of my dreams. Displayed

decided I would do the

a no-brainer. Massages,

so lovely, standing like a beacon on a

most revengeful thing I

pawdicures, scrumptious

hill…a Prada handbag. My dream come

could think of to Dragon

food and drink, beauty

true. Should I buy such a luxury? Of

Lady - spend her money.

She hangs on to it like Hilary Clinton hangs on to her email server. She is

masks, endless cold compresses and cucumber slices (I can eat quite a few).

So off I went to the Breakers

course I should and carry it proudly as I traipse past Felicity the Floozie when I get home. Was Prada too good for me?

Nada!

what we call a Fru-Gal.

in Pawlm Beach. Beautiful, his-

So, now I’m back and DL has finally

As soon as the news

toric, beachfront and EXPENSIVE!

simmered down after her AMEX state-

hit the streets, Fake

Serves her right. I couldn’t stop gig-

ment burnt a hole in her brain. At first

Felicity Farnsworth came trotting up

gling at the thought of DL’s ashen face

she was like, “Well, Henrietta, I realize

with her band of bimbettes and said,

when she opens her credit card bill.

you were insulted and I don’t exactly

“So, Henrietta, will your next column

Once at the Breakers, I settled in

hate you, but if you were dying I would

be about graveyards…that is, IF you

nicely. Room service, body treatments,

unplug your life support to charge my

ever have another column?” To which I

umbrella-clad libations, more room

phone.” Yes…we have a little more work

replied, “If you’re gonna be a smartass,

service and my favorite: in-room movies

to do on making up but I’m sure she will

first you have to be smart. Otherwise

all night long! I licked my wounds and

come around. And probably want to bor-

you’re just an ass.” Somewhere out

decided that maybe getting the boot for

row my purse.

16

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Illustration by Jim Tweedy, colorized by Desiree Walton

I

love elephants. Except I don’t love

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Unleashed CAP CELEBRITY PAWS KICK OFF

C

itizen’s for Animal Protection introduced their Top Ten Honorees who will be featured

at this year’s Celebrity Paws Gala on Nov. 21. The unveiling took place at Saks Fifth Avenue where animal lovers went WILD

Joe & Jewell Maida with “Tess”

Karla Hoskin & Stacie Davis

Michelle Mantor, Bruce Padilla, and Hershey Grace

Iraida Brown

Lisa Gochman & “Lucy”

Tara Brivic-Looper, Kim Padgett, and Jon Halbur

Judy Nichols and SAKS GM Bobby Dees

Jon Halbur & Dan O’Brien (Honorees)

Bruce Sparks, Roi Alan, Travis Player, and JD Adamson

Hershey Grace, Kim Coffman, & Michelle Mantor

for the safari-themed party, reflecting the theme for this year’s gala. The honorees will compete for the top prize through fundraising efforts. Hope to see you at this annual party that supports the shelter! To purchase tickets, visit www.cap4pets.org.

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Photos By: Kim Coffman

Photos by Kim Coffman.

MUTTS, MEOWS & MARGARITAS

T

he annual MMM event never fails to bring smiles to faces and dollars to Friends of BARC as sup-

porters grab their FREE stuffed animals, while bidding on live and silent auction items. The money raised benefits the ani-

Photos By: Gilbert Atkinson

mals at Houston’s city shelter, BARC.

PICASSOS

BY PAWS AT URBAN TAILS

B

ayou City Outdoors teamed with Urban Tails for a pup painting party to remember! Pets painted pawfer-

ctly beautiful masterpieces to raise money for Houston SNAP (Spay-Neuter Assistance

Photos By: Rebecca Burwell

Program), a very worthy cause!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Happenings

I

t’s time to Go WILD Saturday, Nov. 21, when Citizen’s for Animal Protection hosts their 28th Annual Celebrity Paws

Gala at the Royal Sonesta Hotel. This safari-themed adventure will be a fun

CITIZEN’S FOR ANIMAL PROTECTION’S 28TH ANNUAL

CELEBRITY PAWS GALA RECEPTION AND DINNER

evening of fundraising culminating in a musical extravaganza featuring the The Ten Elite Honorees and their pets presented for “Celebrity Pet of the Year“ honors.

Guests will enjoy a reception, dinner, live and big board auctions. Chairmen Penny and Paul Loyd and Co-Chairmen Laura MacIngvale Brown and Phillip Brown invite you to join in supporting this great cause and urge you not to miss the big show provided by J&D Entertainment Photo By: Michelle Watson

featuring the “Circle of Life.”

Tickets are $300 and tables are up to $25,000 benefiting the shelter and other CAP animal services and programs. For more information, contact Kappy Muenzer at 713.972.1896, or kappycap@comcast.net.

Laura McIngvale Brown with Paris and Sarah

MAKING MEMORIES

SANTA & YOUR BEST FRIEND TOGETHER AT LAST

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ave the date for Santa! He’s coming to town and making a stop at Meadowlake Pet

Resort & Training Center for photo ops November 7th from 10AM-2PM. Pictures will be distributed on a USB drive for $14.95. No appointment is necessary.

Learn more at www.meadowlakepetresort.com.

22

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ASK THE

VET

Jennifer Hennessey, DVM, CVJ Animal ER of NW Houston, Owner www.animalERnwh.com

WHAT LABORING PROBLEMS CAN OCCUR WHEN MY DOG GIVES BIRTH? - MRS. STRONG

TTOUCH TRAINING WITH LINDA TELLINGTON-JONES

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training of companion animals, horses, farm animals, exotics and wildlife. TTouch is known for its positive effect on behavior, performance and health issues while helping us create that partnership we all want with our dog. This gentle method is based on cooperation and respect for all animals and their people. It is currently being used by animal owners, trainers, breeders, veterinarians, zoo personnel and shelter workers on four continents. There are 1600 certified Tellington practitioners teaching TTouch in 28 countries to help you with your dog, cat or other pet.

TTouch can help in cases of: Excessive Barking and Chewing, Leash Pulling, Jumping Up, Aggressive Behavior, Extreme Fear and Shyness, Resistance to Grooming, Excitability and Nervousness, Car Sickness, Problems Associated with Aging and more.

Dogs and cats both deliver their litters at variable increments. In general, concerns and medical attention are warranted if it takes more than 3 hours for a delivery between babies or if it takes more than 30 minutes to deliver a baby when the pet is seen contracting and pushing hard to deliver.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST HAZARD FOR MY NEW DOG THIS HOLIDAY?

- MRS. COYLE

Holiday risks are numerous but the common safety concern during the fall holidays is ingestion of human food items. Foods including fatty meats, seasoned goodies, bones and even onions can make your pet very sick. Sweet treats including chocolate can even be toxic and cause life threatening issues.

Why does your dog pant? And why the wet puppy nose? Ask your pet questions for Dr Jennifer Hennessey at Facebook/AnimalERnwh to see if answers you have been curious about appear in our column each month!

This is an extremely rare opportunity to work with Linda Tellington-Jones. The multiday clinic will be limited in size. The training can be the start or continuation of your Companion Animal TTouch Practitioner certification program. CEUs will be available from CPDT, NCBTMB . Find more information by calling 800-854-8326 or www.TTouch.com.

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WORKING DOGS

THE FEARLESS EFFORT TO SAVE LIVES

By: Michelle Mantor Photos By: Evin Thayer

A

s an admirer of canines and their many sills

For our feature story, we visited the HPD K9 training

and abilities, I have always been in awe of

center for photos and interviews and got to see a behind

working dogs. The list of important tasks that

the scenes look at what it takes to develop a great

dogs fulfill to assist or save their human counterparts

canine officer as well as the dangers and tough parts of

is vast. A few examples come to mind that are truly

their job. A special thank you to Lt. Mihalco and Officer

impressive: water rescue dogs that jump from boats or

Gregory Smith, handler of “Gunnar” featured in our story,

helicopters to save drowning victims, seeing eye dogs for

for their assistance. I hope you enjoy reading the story as

the blind, dogs that alert for serious health issues such as

much as I did researching and writing it!

seizures, avalanche rescue dogs, and bomb

As a special treat, we also have a video of

sniffing dogs to name a few.

“Gunnar” performing his training

In my capacity as Editor

routine during our photo ses-

and Publisher of

sion. Go to www.houston-

Houston PetTalk, I’ve

pettalk.com and search

had the privilege

“Gunnar” to view the

of meeting some

video.

fantastic canines

Yes, police dogs

that perform some

are impressive and

of these heroic

so are search and

tasks (which is one

rescue dogs. Again,

of the best parts

this is a skill that is

of my job). In May

vitally important to sav-

of 2015, I attended the

ing human lives and these

BARC gala where the Houston

dogs work tirelessly in very

Police Department K9 unit per-

tough conditions. The second part of

formed a demonstration of the dog’s abilities

our feature story focuses on a local search team,

including attacking a suspect (officer in bite suit for demo

Doug Goodman and Mojo. Learn more about their duties

purposes). Wow! I was impressed with the each dog’s abil-

and adventures as members of the SARQuest Search

ity to perform commands quickly and efficiently as well as

Team.

their power and overall intelligence. After the demonstra-

The next time you see a service dog or working dog,

tion, I spent some time talking to Albert Mihalco, Police

give them a touch of gratitude for their selflessness and

Lieuentant of HPD K9 and decided that if I was so inter-

aid in making human lives more comfortable, manage-

ested in the HPD K9 unit, our readers would be as well.

able and safe.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

27

H

ave you ever wondered about the life of a K9 Cop? Or, perhaps what it takes to be selected as an elite canine ready to defend justice? PetTalk sat down with Lt. Albert Mihalco and Officer Greg Smith of the Houston Police Departments K9 Unit to find answers to these questions and more. Pictured in this feature are Officer Greg Smith and “Gunnar.”

Where do K9 Unit dogs come from?

a team environment, and we also look for

shift training. The rest of the time is spent

intelligence.

running canine calls for service. We run be-

Kennels ( Indiana) or Southern Coast

Does HPD purchase trained dogs

tween 4 and 6 canine calls a day. They are

Kennels (Florida). Both vendors go to

or do the officers train them?

let out of the car for a break every half an

HPD buys their dogs from Vohn Licke

Germany, Belgium, or Czech Republic

We purchase mainly “green” dogs, which

hour or so. The rest of the time we spend

to get their dogs. The breeding in those

means they have very little training. We

supporting patrol functions and doing dem-

countries is very stringent and the blood

spend up to 4 months training with one of

onstrations for the public.

lines are better.

our three trainers and the handler until they

What are the dogs trained to do

Are there particular breeds

are certified to go on the streets.

when tracking a suspect?

that are best for K9 officer work?

What languages are commonly used

Most police dogs these days are German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, or

for their commands?

Their commands are in German, Czech,

HPD’s dogs are trained to track, find, and bite only if needed to capture the suspect. We try not to bite, but sometimes it

Dutch Shepherd.

or Dutch depending where the dog was

is the last resort when the suspect will not

What characteristics does one look for

purchased from.

give up and keeps fighting the police.

in a good police dog?

What is an average day of work like?

Do the dogs ever make mistakes

We look for a good “prey” drive and

We spend 30 minutes to an hour every-

like going for the wrong person?

“hunt” drive in a police dog. Next we look

day doing some sort of training. We also

Police dogs are just like humans and

for sociability to see if the dog can work in

spend at least four hours a week doing

make mistakes. They miss hiding suspects

28

www.houstonpettalk.com

or track the wrong person. Sometimes they just need more training or perhaps they are having a bad day.

What is their ongoing training regimen?

Police dogs train all the time, and one day a week is set aside just for training on obedience, tracking, building searches, and recalls (calling the dog back to you after he was sent to attack a suspect, (which is harder than we think).

Do the dogs come home with the officers or stay in a kennel?

They live with the handler. There is a kennel at each handler’s house where the dog sleeps at night. When they are at home they can let their hair down and just be dogs. They play chase squirrels and swim. They become part of the “pack” or family.

Can all dogs detect drugs, bombs and cadavers or do they have specialties?

Each police dog has its own specialty. It works better that way and makes it easier to defend that dog in court. I have 19 patrol dogs (they find suspects). 8 of those dogs are dual trained to find suspects and explosives, which really taxes those 8 dogs.

How do you choose the officers that will be the handlers?

K9 officers must have served in patrol for 5 to 7 years before they are even considered. We look for older and more mature officers that really think their decisions through - a slower more detailed thinker.

A dog can be a lethal tool and the department stresses captures, not dog bites.

Do the dogs have bullet proof vests?

All K9 police dogs do have bullet proof vests and the dogs are marked with a harness saying that they are a police dog.

Are the dogs safe when left in their patrol cars when the handler is not there?

Our dogs are safe. We purchase a hot and pop system that if the interior of the Houston PetTalk Magazine

29

SUPPORT YOUR HPD K9 UNIT To support HPD K9’s, please

donate at www.houstonpolicefoundation.org. Your donations will help acquire police dogs, support their training regimen and help purchase needed equipment to keep the dogs safe while performing their heroic duties.

Here are some of the dogs you can sponsor:

ARTUS

BARRO

BRODY

DEXTER

DIRECT

GUNNAR

vehicle exceeds 89 degrees the windows

be used to protect an officer but not a

roll down automatically, a window fan

police dog. There are lesser laws that do

turns on and the lights and horn activate.

protect police dogs.

We also carry a pager that is linked to the

What happens to retired dogs?

system to alert us if we are away from the vehicle. Our cars run with the a/c on for the

lice handler to live out the rest of their lives.

dogs. We have an anti-theft system that will

What do the dogs do for fun?

not allow our cars to be taken out of park

JAKE

30

T-REX

www.houstonpettalk.com

 All retired dogs go home with their po-

Police dogs have fun by going on walks

while the handler is away from it.

with their handlers, they love chasing ten-

Is hurting a police dog the same

nis balls, and doing the Obedience course

as hurting a police officer?

at the police training grounds.

Hurting a police dog is not the same as hurting a police officer. Deadly force can

The police dogs are kept in their kennels outside to get used to the heat and are not

house pets. That does not mean that family members can’t love on them at certain times which does happen. There is always a bond that is developed even with family members.

What is the cost of a K9 Unit dog?

A K9 police dog costs approximately $8,000 to $10,000. They work hard, around 3 to 4 deployments (tracking) per day. I would say 4 to 6 captures a month.

All veterinary bills are paid by the City of Houston which can be very high if the dog gets injured. Dog injuries are sometimes frequent but we do our best to avoid them.

HPD does buy some police dogs, but

K9s4COPS K9s4COPS was formed to address

the need for funding the purchase of K9s for Law Enforcement Agencies.

In four years, K9s4COPs has

safely to their families each night.

With budgets still being cut across the country, law enforcement agencies are unable to replace their K9s

UNLEASHED approximately 100 K9s

when injured, retired, or even killed in

to 68 agencies and 12 schools in 28

the line of duty. Be part of the solution

states. These highly skilled and trained

by helping gift more K9s to protect

K9s provide invaluable detection abili-

our communities. Learn more and

ties and their diligent service allows

donate here: www.k9s4cops.org.

their human partners to make it home

the Houston Police Foundation buys about 70% of the dogs. Any citizen can donate to the Houston Police Foundation (www. houstonpolicefoundation.org) and have their money designated for a police dog.

Office Smith, what do you like best about working with Gunnar and what is the most challenging aspect of working with a canine?

This is my dream job. I have wanted to do this since I was about 5 years old.

I get to go to work every day with man’s best friend. I have had him since he was about 18 months old. We have been through a lot together. He has been stabbed, kicked and accidently tasered by another officer. We have fought suspects side by side and losing is not an option.

It is truly a team effort. We are doing our part along with the other canine teams to make the streets of Houston safer for our citizens. I know that his job is to protect human life. I live with the fact that at any time I may have to send him on a mission and he may not come back. We don’t like to think about it but it is reality. We do the best we can to protect each other and pray every day that we go home safe.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

31

SEARCH By: Doug Goodman, SARQuest Search Team Photos by: Jessica Nimon

S

earch and Rescue (SAR) work is

working under a variety of environmental

interested in running through the fields

a challenge, especially for first-

factors, from cold to hot temperatures,

searching for lost people.

time canine handlers. On top

wet to dry humidity, day to night. All of that

Q: My dog is six years old. Is she too

of learning how to develop a working dog,

variety takes time.

old for SAR work?

there are many questions to ask before

Q: My dog is not a working breed. Can

starting. As a person with some experience

she do search and rescue work?

A: Every dog is different. Some dogs live to be 15-17 years old, so a 6 yr. old

(I have been a SAR canine handler and vol-

A: Every time I hear that a certain breed

dog is still relatively youthful. On the

unteer for ten years), I would like to address

cannot be a search dog, I encounter a team

other hand, some dogs live only 8-10

some of these questions and also mention

working that breed. A better question than

years. With that in mind, remember that

that these are my opinions and not neces-

“which breed is best?” is “what traits make

you can expect the training to take ap-

sarily the opinions of my SAR team.

a good search dog?” Generally, the best

proximately 2 years, so you need to go

Q: How long will it take to train my dog?

SAR dogs are personable dogs that get

into the situation with open eyes and

A: I like to say two years. Truthfully, most

along with people and other dogs. They

realistic expectations. When I started

dogs pick up on the “trick” of the game

also enjoy getting out and doing things. If

working my dog, Mojo, the trainer at that

relatively quickly. But first-time handlers

your dog, regardless of the breed, prefers

time cautioned me about time lines and

need time to learn to read the dog’s behav-

to stay on the couch, then fine. I know

expectations. At the time, I was mainly

ior. Also before being ready to certify and

many good couch dogs and they serve a

interested in learning how to train a dog.

work, you and your dog need a history of

purpose, but your dog probably won’t be

I knew that Mojo probably would not end

32

www.houstonpettalk.com

up being my working cadaver dog...until

loved ones. They also inspire writers to

CADAVER DOG

he was. He served on many searches in

create stories about training dogs to hunt

by Doug Goodman

the Houston area and retired at the age

zombies (see inset).

“Training a dog to track a zom-

of twelve. He is currently fourteen years

Q: What advice do

bie is like training a cadaver dog

old and enjoying his retirement.

you have to first-

or a bomb dog. It takes patience,

Q: What is a cadaver dog?

time working dog

trust, and the right dog-and-han-

A: One of the big questions I answer for my team is what kind of search and

handlers?

A: Remember to

dler team. And to not be afraid of zombies.”

rescue dogs we use. On my team, there

have fun and to be pa-

Every writer needs an inspi-

are three disciplines: trailing, area search

tient. Be consistent, lis-

ration. My new book, Cadaver

(what some call air scent work), and hu-

ten to your trainers, and

Dog, was inspired by my

DOG man remains, or cadaver, detection.

Trailing dogs search for a specific live

person. The dog is trained to smell an

remember to relax. Dogs

volunteer work as a human

feed off their owner’s

remains dog handler. As a

energy, so a nervous han-

handler, trainer, and searcher in Houston, the initial idea for Cadaver Dog was conceived when I was trying to set up a “moving target” scenario for human remains dogs.

I needed this book to make sense. The norms of a zombie story had to make sense in this world, so there had to be a

article of clothing, then follow the trail of

dler is a nervous dog, and a handler who

biological reason for the dead to

the person. I like to use the example of

doesn’t get excited about SAR work has a

rise, for headshots to be the only

the classic prison break where the officer

dog that won’t get excited about it either.

way of stopping the undead, for

gives a piece of the escaped convict’s

So get out there, find a team, and start

dogs to hunt zombies.

clothes to the bloodhound, which then

working on this great bond between you

tracks the convict out into the woods and

and your dog. Focus on that bond, and

dog and the trainer had to be

up a tree for the other officers to find.

you will always be happy with the results.

the central relationship of this

Area search dogs are a little different.

The relationship between the

book. The story follows a SAR

They are still looking for live people, but

volunteer, Angie Graves, who is

it can be anybody. An example would be

tasked with training dogs to hunt

a tornado hits a trailer park and now the

zombies. Now Angie has trained

dog is used to find anybody still living

dogs to detect all kinds of scents:

who is stranded in the debris.

cadavers, drugs, guns, and even

Human remains (or cadaver) dogs (HRDs) are my favorite. This is my disci-

bombs. But zombies?

Find out when you order

pline of choice. (What self-respecting hor-

Cadaver Dog, available on

ror writer could train anything but HRDs?)

Amazon ($10 paperback and

HRDs are trained to help in the recovery

$2.99 ebook), or visit www.doug-

of missing persons. They bring closure to

goodman.net.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

33

34

www.houstonpettalk.com

Houston PetTalk Magazine

35

Holiday

Gift

Guide The Cheese

The Cheese is an exciting game of peeka-boo with two mice that pop out of each side of the swiss cheese block. Your cat will love the hunt! For surprise play sessions, use Play While You Are Away mode to keep cats engaged throughout the day.

Collectible Figurine Box

T

This solid handcast yellow bronze

The Cheese is available at Houston Kriser’s Natural Pet Store locations in town. Visit them online at www.krisers.com.

Papillon collectors figurine box by he holidays are a time of giving

Esquivel and Fees is one of twenty

as we celebrate with family and

different breeds in their new bronze

friends, both two-legged and four-

box line. Collect them all or just your

legged! Sharing in holiday festivities and gift

favorites. Esquivel and Fees is located

giving is often part of our age-old traditions.

at 2368 Rice Blvd, 77005, and you can

We show someone we care by carefully

visit them online at www.efsterling.com.

selecting the perfect gift, something they will enjoy and that is personal to them.

Each year, we present our Annual Holiday Gift Guide to inspire you to find the perfect gift for the pet or pet lover on your list. We feature unique, artistic, useful and fun products, many of which are sold by our sponsors and we encourage you to shop with them because they make our publication possible and they provide valuable services and products to our pet community. Please keep them in mind during your shopping adventure!

36

FroliCat Bolt

FroliCat™ is a line of innovative cat toys that provide the ultimate in interactive play for your feline (and canine) friends. All FroliCat toys are designed to engage your cat in enthusiastic play. So prepare for pouncing, chasing, jumping, and maybe even the occasional half-twist somersault. Get your own Frolicat Laster toys from one of many Houston Kriser’s Natural Pet Store locations in town. Visit them online at www.

www.houstonpettalk.com

krisers.com.

A Picture Says 1,000 Words Robin Kachantones creates vibrant

works of art from your photos. Be it wedding invitations to full size paintings, digital art and traditional, Robin does it all. Plus her pieces are sure to impress with their outstanding colors and clarity. For more information on Robin visit her website at www.robinkachantones. squarespace.com.

Home Decor

Nature Dog Photography is launching a new service, “Nature Dog Art”, where

One Of A Kind

a photograph of you and your pooch

These beautiful works of art are avail-

is transformed into digital art. From Oil

able from local artist, Kristel Peale. For a

Painting to Pop Art, there are a variety of

reasonable price you can get your own

styles for you to choose from. You can

pet (or your pal’s pet) painted in soft

have your digital art printed in paper,

watercolors for a custom piece you are

wood, metal or canvas. Get that special

sure to remember for a long time. Plus,

gift today with a 33% discount during

now you can purchase Kristel’s wonder-

the fall season. A special memory gift

ful artwork on holiday cards! Create

of that special 4 legged one that we

a custom card or choose from one of

love so much. Visit them online at www.

Kristel’s stock designs. Visit her online at

naturedogphotography.com.

www.petandpalette.com.

The Biggest “Thank You” Ever

Are you looking to make an impression this holiday season? Giving a car to the person you love is a sure way to do it!

The Purrfect Ring Holder

This shiny kitty ring holder from Umbra is durable and modern, plus it is shaped like an adorable, round little kitty cat. Keep

Visit West Houston Subaru, the most pet-centric auto brand, at www. westhoustonsubaru.com or 17109 Katy Fwy., 77094 to find the ultimate gift for a pet owner on your list.

your rings safe with your own shiny kitty,

It’s a Sign!

Give the gift that lets friends and

available online at www.amazon.com.

neighbors know just how you feel about your dog with these fun signs from Lone Star Pet Lodges, located at 3207 Williamsburg Ln. 77459 or visit them online at www.lonestarpetlodges.com.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

37

Laptop Lover

Does your furry friend love your laptop? Distract them with this sneaky look-a-like so you can get some work done... finally! This tricky and functional scratch pad is available online at UncommonGoods, www. uncommongoods.com.

Real Unicorns Have Curves

Down the Rabbit Hole

Celebrate the rhinoceros’ majesty ev-

These gold rabbit bookends are unique

ery morning with this awesomely cute

and sure to be noticed. Whether deco-

mug from Etsy shop owner Tamara

rating a table, shelf or holding books

Kraft. Tamara has a plethora of ador-

in place, these sculptural objects will

able animal themed mugs in her shop,

definitely enhance any room’s appear-

Pithitude, check it out online at www.

ance. Available at Bed Bath & Beyond,

etsy.com/shop/tamarakraft.

www.bedbathandbeyond.com.

On-The-Go Snacking Perfect for the pet owner on the go, the

Snack Duo Travel Cup set has two separate sides for storing dry or wet goods, plus it comes with a collapsible bowl for serving. Buy one for your pet and one for yourself, it’s great for breakfast cereal!

Available from 1-800-Pet-Meds,

Bionic Toys

www.1800petmeds.com.

When we came across these toys at the SuperZoo pet retailers convention in Vegas, we knew we had to feature them. The booth boasted that the toys could survive a run through a high powered Ninja blender, and the demo proved this to be true. Highly durable, bouncy, stuffable and interesting - Bionic toys are truly as advertised. Get it at local retailers and online at www. bionicplay.com.

38

www.houstonpettalk.com

FabuLeash

Jewelry is what every girl wants, and we know there are some pampered pooches out there who would LOVE some jewelry! Give the gift of fabulousness with these beaded show leashes from www.fabuleash.com.

Modern Comfort The urban dog knows all about

modern aesthetics, and he’s ready for an update. Give your pet the gift of modern comfort with these cool dog beds by Katherine Elizabeth. The cotton covers are machine washable, making care quite simple. Available at Bed Bath & Beyond with or without the stand, www.bedbathandbeyond.com.

Feng Shui Fountain Moving water fountains can encourage

your pets to drink more water. This Feng Shui fountain adopts a creative and calm-

TIny Transportation

ing yin-yang shape, which will certainly bring peace to your home. Available from

Traveling with your pet has never been

www.chewy.com.

easier! This rolling small pet travel carrier from Gen7 Pets has lots of zippers in varied locations so no matter how your pet is feeling that day, entry can go as smooth as possible. The expandable handle and wheels help make navigation a breeze.

Available at www.wayfair.com.

Hurley Dog Bone This toy comes with a guarantee to ship a new one should the old one fail to maintain its shape. Floating is a great thing if your pup enjoys the water, and the Hurley Dog Bone is truly fun when you’re out in the sun.

You can purchase your own at Kriser’s

Gough Nuts

Though they are not the prettiest toys in the box, they sure do last a long time! The toys come with a lifetime replacement guarantee: if you start to see the red center they will send you a new one, no questions asked. Good luck getting to that point though, this is a real buy-it-for-life item for most normal chewers. Available at www. goughnuts.com.

Natural Pet Store locations in Houston.

Stocking Stuffer

Keep your pets looking selfie-satisfactory with these great on-the-go wipes and tissues from Kiss-U Tissue that fit perfectly in any cup holder. They are great for kids and pets alike, plus they save you from searching for the tissue box, making travel safer for everyone. Available for purchase at local Office Max and Office Depot locations. Learn more at www.kissutissue.com.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

39

Pattern Pop

Custom gifts can give a special meaning to a gift, as you can choose the perfect design to match your perfect human or pet. Choose the pattern and image you like for a pillow, tumbler, key hook, or almost anything else you can think of! These cool designs and

Alpaca Pet Leads

more are available from Pattern Pop at www.patternpop.com.

Go all natural with your gift giving this

Tuffy Toys

year and get the pet on your list a 100% Texas grown alpaca leash from Rancho

These durable toys feature several

Inca. Alpaca is a natural, soft, warm

layers of heavy duty materials so they

fiber with positive energy. Alpaca has

can stand up to tough chewing. They

no lanolin. These leads have a natural

come in many forms, from aliens to

stretch giving an ease of feel to both

turkeys and everything in between.

the dog and the handler. Get this hand-

You can pick up these built to last toys

made work of art at Natures Select,

at Petco locations nationwide.

www.naturesselecthouston.com.

Cutie Doodie

This non-traditional stocking stuffer is guaranteed a giggle. Hip colors and patterns make a job that nobody truly likes just a little bit more fun. Available online at www. wag.com.

Over the Door Cat Climber

Subtle Hint

Have you been trying to gently nudge

Know a cat owner with limited space?

your pals to adopt? For those not quite

The Over the Door Cat Climber is is

ready for a live animal, here’s another

the perfect solution. This cool inven-

way to drop a subtle hint - a DIY cat kit

tion allows you to take advantage of

called Knitty Kitty! This kit comes with

small spaces while allowing

everything you need to ease your pals

your pet to have her own

into a comfortable life of pet ownership.

play place. Available at

Available at www.uncommongoods.

www.overstock.com.

com.

40

www.houstonpettalk.com

Bespoke Dog Crates and Gates

Maricela Sanchez is modifying the way we think about dog crates and gates.

Historically an eyesore, gates and crates are typically things we don’t like displaying in our homes but find necessary for pet care. Maricela’s new Bespoke items are created with gorgeous modern patterns, perfect for the posh pooch.

Available at www.maricelasanchez.com.

The Rescue Collection

Vesper Cat Furniture Behold, the latest in

kitty cat technology, the Vesper line of cat furniture. Created to suit more contemporary tastes, this cool cat furniture doesn’t

Add a burst of color to home decor with

seek to be

The DENY Designs Dean Russo throw

an extension

pillows. What better gift to give than a big

of your carpet,

comfy pillow depicting a favored breed.

but lives on its own

Available at www.wayfair.com.

with great design features that any owner would be proud to display. Available from www.wag.com.

Petmate Self Warming Pet Bed

Utilizing the same heat-reflecting technology found in Mylar “space blankets”, the Aspen Pet Self-Warming Rectangular Lounger is lined with a layer of mate-

TrackR Bravo

rial that generates warmth by reflecting the pet’s own body heat. Get yours from

TrackR is a small, coin-sized device that

Arne’s Texas Size Pet Supplies, www.

easily attaches to your valuable items. With

arneswarehouse.com.

the TrackR App, locate any lost or misplaced item in seconds by ringing your

Yuppie Dog’s “Tinaquero” Line New and exclusive at Yuppie Dog

Daycare is the Tinaquero line of whimsical mix and match collars, flowers and bowties (the fellas love to be fashionable too!). Have fun with different combinations to match your pups mood

missing keys, using TrackR’s

and social calendar. Available

Distance Indicator or via Crowd

at Yuppie Dog Daycare, 2203

GPS. Perfect for pet collars and

Durham, www.yuppiedogday-

can be laser engraved with your

care.com.

pet’s name. Buy 1 for $29, or 10 for $149 at www.thetrackr.com.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

41

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Health BENIGN OR MALIGNANT

Tumors in Animals

I

t can be difficult to understand the

growth over time.

By: Dr. Suzanne Hunter, DACVS and Kate Lawrence www.gcvs.com

bone cancer, called osteosarcoma, which

difference between a malignant (can-

When pet owners are faced with the

can metastasize within months. Notice

cerous) tumor and a benign (non-can-

possibility of a malignant tumor, it can be

the difference in the bone quality of the

cerous) tumor, especially when it comes

surprising and alarming. For some cases

affected area – almost as though the

to our pets. If your pet has a growth, it

of suspected cancerous tumors, the

bone is bursting out – this is a classic

should be evaluated by a veterinarian

veterinarian or surgeon will recommend

indicator of a malignant bone tumor. With

as soon as possible. Sometimes doctors

surgical excision immediately, and obtain

any suspected malignant tumor, chest

are able to make an educated guess by

a biopsy during removal. The need for

radiographs and possibly an abdominal

looking at several factors (breed, age, lo-

swift action in some cases is due to the

ultrasound should be performed prior to

cation and appearance of the tumor, etc),

surgery to make sure the primary tumor

but it is impossible to make a definitive

has not begun to metastasize to other

diagnosis without cytology or biopsy –

areas of the body. If metastatic disease is

where cells or tissue from the growth are

present, the patient’s long-term prognosis

evaluated by a pathologist to determine

is guarded, and the surgeon may not rec-

the type of the tumor, and whether it is

ommend proceeding with surgery at that

malignant or benign.

point. Some types of malignant tumors

The most common type of benign

can be cured through complete excision

tumor is a lipoma, or fatty tumor, that

with good “margins”. When a surgeon

generally develops just under the skin in

refers to “margins” they are describing

older or overweight pets. These tumors

the amount of healthy tissue the patholo-

typically do not pose a health risk and

gist finds around the area of malignancy.

many veterinarians will only remove a

The goal when removing a tumor is to

lipoma if the tumor is large enough to

get “clean” margins, which means the

cause the patient to have trouble walk-

pathologist only sees healthy, normal tis-

ing or is rapidly growing. Other types of

sue all around the area of the tumor. This

benign tumors are adenomas, basal cell

often greatly reduces the chance of the

tumors, follicular cysts, and histocytomas.

fact that in many suspected malignant

If your pet has been diagnosed with a be-

tumors, the possibility of metastatic dis-

If your pet is diagnosed with a tumor,

nign tumor, talk to your veterinarian about

ease is high. Metastatic disease occurs

talk to your veterinarian about what kind

surgical intervention versus conservative

when the primary tumor spreads micro-

of tumor you are dealing with, what your

treatment. Some benign tumors should

scopic cancerous cells into other areas

options are, and what type of diagnostics

still be removed surgically, as they can

or organs in the body, which will begin to

are recommended for your pet. In some

grow to a large size, become ulcerated,

grow into new malignant tumors, often in

cases, a consultation with a board-

or affect the patient’s health. Other be-

the chest or abdomen. The radiograph

certified veterinary surgeon may be

nign tumors can simply be monitored for

above shows an example of a common

necessary.

44

www.houstonpettalk.com

tumor recurring or spreading.

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INFO@ADOREHOUSTON.ORG Houston PetTalk Magazine

45

PANCREATITIS

Pudge’s Story

W

By: Rebecca Norton, DVM, DACVIM & Jessica Alcocer www.gcvs.com

hen Pudge’s owners

bacteria migrate through the pancreatic

his body’s breakdown of the red blood

noticed he was lethargic

duct into the pancreas where it causes

cells as they tried to fight the pancre-

and had stopped eating

infection and inflammation. This is dif-

atitis. Moreover, Pudge had Blood Type

normally, they knew something was

ferent than the typical presentation of

B, which is extremely rare. Most cats

wrong. Pudge, a 4-year-old tabby cat,

dogs with pancreatitis, in which it can be

(about 98%) have Blood Type A, so blood

was taken to see a veterinarian and in

caused by infection, but more often from

donors with his type are difficult to find. In

the course of a day, his health had rapidly deteriorated. He arrived at the hospital in critical condition

addition to a blood transfusion, he

“Pudge”

underwent IV fluid administration for hydration and protein support,

with extremely low blood pressure

antibiotics and pain medication.

and temperature. In cats, this is an

After a long week of intense

indication of shock. Pudge needed

care, Pudge thankfully made a full

intensive care for several days be-

recovery! Pancreatitis can pres-

fore he was downgraded to stable

ent with non-specific signs, so he

condition.

was fortunate that his owners were

What brought Pudge to this

quick to notice his change in behav-

condition was a severe case of

ior and sought veterinary care. Cats

pancreatitis. Pudge’s pancreatitis

and dogs with pancreatitis present

was diagnosed via a combination

a wide range of clinical signs and

of blood testing and an ultra-

severity of signs. Most will make a

sound. Additionally, the ultrasound

full recovery, but some of the most

showed that Pudge’s spleen was

severely affected can develop

unusually inflamed. Aspirate (cell)

life threatening systemic inflam-

samples of the spleen revealed

matory responses that can cause

atypical cells that were worrisome

overwhelming inflammation in the

for cancer. Fortunately, cancer was

intestines, liver, abdominal cav-

not another issue he would have

ity or lungs. Because there are so

to face. Pancreatitis is inflammation

many underlying potential causes

of the pancreas that is typically caused

diet indiscretion (such as unusually high

of pancreatitis, prevention of pancreatitis

by inflammation in the intestinal tract in

fat snacks or meals).

and recurrences is difficult. Like Pudge’s

cats. The pancreas is located adjacent to

Treatment for pancreatitis depends on

parents, all pet owners should be mindful

the intestines and often suffers an insult

the severity of the case and the underly-

of their pet’s subtle signs of illness or

secondarily to inflamed intestines due to

ing cause. Treatment may be as simple

pain. This is often easier said than done,

its shared ducts and proximity.

as outpatient antibiotics and changing

however. Many cats try to hide their

to a low fat/low residue diet. In Pudge’s

symptoms until they are actually very sick.

ously difficult to pinpoint. Cats typically

case, treatment was much more intense.

With early detection, treatment can start

contract pancreatitis due to underly-

Pudge required a blood transfusion due

sooner and prevent further harm to your

ing intestinal bacterial imbalances. The

to underlying intestinal bleeding and

companion.

The causes of pancreatitis are notori-

46

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Website

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Tail End ROCK THE RESCUE

By: Pat MacKinnon and Karen Pitcock

How AAR Tomball raised $3,450 with Rock and Roll

A

bandoned Animal Rescue

owners in financial need

(AAR) rock-and-rolled to

maintain their pet’s health.

$3,450 in donations during the

AAR is also up for an end

Styx, Tesla and Def Leppard concert at

of the year grant from Rock

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in

to the Rescue for their

The Woodlands. The Styx-founded charity

participation in this year’s

“Rock to the Rescue” partnered with AAR

event.

as the local group to benefit from the

AAR volunteers are

concert. Rock to the Rescue’s mission is

tireless when it comes

to support and strengthen communities

to raising money. Their

across the United States by offering small

annual golf tournament,

local non-profits the opportunity to raise

held on September 21,

money during their concerts.

was a huge success. The

The concert took place on a typical

annual Wine and Beer

Texas hot-and-humid summer evening,

Tasting will be held on

however that didn’t deter the AAR volun-

Saturday, November 14th

teers. While classic-rock lovers enjoyed

at newly-opened Barkway

Styx and Def Leppard, the volunteers sold

Pet Resort in Tomball. Since

raffle tickets for a guitar signed by all of

AAR is all-volunteer man-

the Styx band members. All the volun-

aged and maintained, all

teers said it was a great experience and

money goes toward the animals’ welfare,

they even ran into a few AAR adopters at

not to salaries. Visit www.aartomball.org

the event! During the concert, the band

to learn about volunteering, donating,

promoted AAR’s mission to end the un-

and adopting.

necessary euthanasia of adoptable dogs and cats through adoption and affordable spay/neuter.

AAR is grateful to “Rock to the Rescue” for giving them the fund-raising opportunity; the money raised will support AAR’s veterinary assistance fund for animals in extra-ordinary medical need. Although AAR’s primary function is sheltering dogs and cats and offering an affordable spay/ neuter clinic, it also offers to help pet

50

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

51

Dog Daycare And Changing Times

10 Lessons From Our Dogs

R

By: Susan Briggs

eflecting back to December 2000 when I co-founded Urban Tails, it’s a little hard to believe

that dog daycare was a new concept to Houston dog owners. Our biggest challenge was reassuring dog owners that group dog play was safe and would benefit their dog. Fifteen years later as an author, speaker and dog daycare expert, my focus has shifted to educating dog owners about the risks of dog daycare and the importance of making sure it’s right for an individual dog.

We chuckled when dog parents referred to their dog’s daycare day as being dropped off for school. And it was like school…although it felt like the dogs were usually the teachers who taught us how to best set up the dog daycare environment. Now it is my passion and responsibility to share these lessons with dog daycare professionals and dog owners.

Where do you like to spend your time?

Is it a place where you feel comfortable and safe, enjoying an activity that makes you happy? This is what you want when you take your dog to daycare. But how do you know if your dog is really happy?

Dogs communicate enjoyment through

Photos Courtesy of Miss Daisy’s Dog Camp, www.missdaisys.com

professionals that speak dog, understand

their body language. For the past fifteen

canine body language and honestly

years, observing thousands of dogs in

shares their observations.

playgroups, we’ve learned to recognize

Selecting the right dog daycare pro-

pet care provider.

The Professional Animal Care Certification Council has been founded to help pet parents easily find professional

when a dog is enjoying, tolerating, or

vider for your dog is an important deci-

pet care providers. Help us recognize the

hating something. We’ve also learned

sion. Keep the ten lessons learned from

providers that apply these ten lessons by

that when dogs are stressed they will

the dogs in mind as you evaluate your

encouraging your providers to become

not eat or play. You need to choose a

options. Also ask your provider if they

certified when testing becomes available

dog daycare operated and staffed by

plan to become certified as a professional

in 2016.

52

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HOW DO YOU FIND THE DOG DAYCARE ENVIRONMENT THAT IS RIGHT FOR YOUR DOG? HERE ARE TEN LESSONS THAT DOGS HAVE TAUGHT THE DOG DAYCARE EXPERTS:

1

8

Knowledgeable Leaders are Preferred – Our dogs recognize people that understand their

language. Be sure your provider has studied body language, stress signals, and recognizes when a dog is uncomfortable.

The best dog leaders develop a bond with each dog and know their individual

Structure is Important – Dogs get

family. This analogy applies to our dogs

bored just hanging out in a large

and their interest in dog play. Some dogs

group of dogs. They enjoy participat-

enjoy large groups and others prefer just

preferences.

9

Good Manners are Rewarded –

ing in a variety of organized games and

one or two play buddies. It’s an individual

activities during the day. Quality play ses-

preference and does not mean anything

sions include structured activities just like

is wrong with your dog or they need to be

school.

fixed if they can’t or don’t want to go to dog

A quality play session is relatively quiet

daycare. Just select a different activity for

where dogs learn to wait politely at gates

your dog to enjoy at your pet center.

and come when called by staff leaders.

2

Quality Rest is Required – It is

free-for-all of incessant barking,

gate crashing and ignoring staff leaders.

and games they enjoy vary. Select a pet

10

of us napping on an airplane. You may shut

provider that offers a variety of options.

physical environment and an equal focus

your eyes, but you don’t sleep well. For

Professional pet providers focus on indi-

on the emotional well-being of each dog.

quality rest, dogs need individual spaces

vidual dog preferences during the social

Professional providers also place a priority

separated from playing dogs. Look for a

assessment. Ask for an honest assessment

on ensuring every dog that participates

daycare that provides quality play sessions

of whether your dog enjoys daycare or

has fun and enjoys off-leash play and is

and formal rest periods.

prefers another activity.

not just tolerating the experience.

not natural for dogs to play for 8 – 12 hours a day. An overtired

dog is grumpy, less tolerant, and a safety risk in playgroup. When dogs lie down and nap in a large playgroup it’s the equivalent

3

Small Groups are Preferred – Dogs separate themselves into small groups of 3 – 5 favorite

playmates. To enjoy play in a large group

5

Group dog play should not be a

Favorite Games Vary – Each dog is an individual even within the same breed. Like us, the activities

6

Mental Activity is Important – Mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise. Dogs enjoy

being challenged mentally so select a pro-

Safety & Fun are Top Priorities – There are many aspects to operating a

safe dog daycare including design of the

ABOUT SUSAN BRIGGS

Susan was co-founder of Urban Tails

of dogs, a lot of physical space is required

vider that uses obedience cues and includes

and a pioneer of dog daycare operations.

so these small groups have room to freely

games that prompts your dog to think.

She is co-author of Safe Off-Leash Dog

is a myth that all dogs like to play

7

Ensure your provider places a priority on

Council, her mission to keep pets safe

with other dogs. Some people en-

staff members engaging and playing with

continues in the development of a certifi-

dogs individually.

cation program for professional pet care

play. Find providers with a lot of physical space or offer small group play options.

4

Daycare is Not For Every Dog – It

joy seeing a movie with a crowd in a theatre and others prefer viewing at home with

Play: A Complete Guide to Safety and Fun

Dogs Like People – Some dogs

and co-founder of The Dog Gurus (www.

enjoy spending time with people

TheDogGurus.com). In co-founding the

more than being with other dogs.

Professional Animal Care Certification

providers (www.paccert.org).

Houston PetTalk Magazine

53

54

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

55

90-N-November

Submitted By BARC

Help BARC Meet Their Goal “Abbey”

T

“Charlene”

Adoptable pets from BARC his November, BARC Animal

management and staff are dedicated to

municipal in-house, low-cost public spay/

Shelter is taking the leap to

improving and enhancing life-saving ef-

neuter clinic called Fixin’ Houston. With

reach a 90 percent live release

forts by testing the limits of every organi-

heightened awareness among Houston’s

rate by launching an all hands on deck ef-

zational function to reach a new goal that

community and strong engagement from

fort focused on saving more of Houston’s

was once only a dream.

partners such as Rescued Pets Movement

homeless animals than ever. That means

Since BARC’s organization transforma-

BARC has set a goal to place 90 percent

tion began in late 2009, BARC has taken

Sims Metal Management, BARC is in a bet-

of the animals in its care throughout

huge steps toward setting the standard

ter position than ever to strive for this goal.

November.

for municipal shelters across the country

This effort will be no easy feat consid-

by opening the first phase of a brand new

and sponsors such as Proler Southwest/

Why November?

ering the ever-changing and unpredict-

adoption center, launching Healthy Pets

able number and condition of animals

Healthy Streets, a targeted free spay/

of animals placed in forever homes each

entering BARC daily. However, BARC’s

neuter program, and opening Texas’ first

month is on an upward trend. In 2009,

56

www.houstonpettalk.com

Over the last five years, the percentage

monthly live release percentages were mostly in the single digits.

In several months of 2015, BARC celebrated an all-time high live release percentage of just over 80 percent. The shelter’s management and Mayor Parker agree: the organization has come a long way since 2009, but it’s time to take live saving efforts to an entirely new level.

While there is no promise that the lengths taken to reach this percentage will result in the ultimate goal, BARC and the City of Houston will begin to learn what it will take to achieve a 90 percent live release rate that is sustainable operationally and financially.

BARC is kicking off 90-N-November in a big way – you’re invited!

90-N-November will be a huge milestone for Houston’s municipal shelter, and BARC wants to kick it off with a celebration. Rescued Pets Movement (RPM), a rescue partner that has transported over 8,500 animals to Colorado, will receive 100 percent of the proceeds raised through ticket sales and donations from a kick-off party scheduled for Wednesday, November 4th from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at Saint Arnold Brewing Company. The proceeds will allow RPM’s fifth transport van to make trips to Colorado which will be needed to

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accomplish BARC’s November goal.

How you can help: BARC will do everything possible to reach a 90 percent live release rate in November, but the shelter can’t do it without Houston’s help.

First and foremost, please adopt a pet from BARC. If you’re

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Please also donate to help find loving and permanent homes for Houston’s homeless animals by visiting www.HoustonBARC.com .

Visit the website to learn more about BARC’s 90-N-November kickoff event on Wednesday, November 4th.

You can be the difference in an animal’s life. Please help BARC save more animals than ever this November.

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

59

TOP 10 REASONS TO VISIT A VETERINARIAN

Bird Ownership

B

By: Natalie Antinoff , DVM, Diplomate ABVP (Avian) www.gcvs.com

irds are wonderfully unique

such as weight loss (or gain), skin issues,

7. MY BIRD IS FAVORING ONE LEG/

pets who sing, talk and bright-

or masses.

WING

en up our homes and lives

3. MY BIRD SEEMS FLUFFED

in many ways. However, birds are both

Birds ‘hide’ their illnesses until the very

It’s actually possible to put a bandage or a splint on a bird, even one as tiny as

hearty and very fragile at the same time.

late stages so they do not appear weak

a canary! Injuries can be as simple as a

They hide illness, making it especially

to predators. If your bird is visibly fluffed,

broken nail or feather, or as painful as a

important for bird owners to maintain a

unusually quiet, or less active than usual,

broken bone.

relationship with an avian veterinarian be-

this can be a sign of a serious illness.

8. MY BIRD DOESN’T PLAY WITH TOYS

fore the bird becomes ill. Here are some

4. THERE’S A CHANGE IN MY BIRD’S

OR INTERACT WITH SOME FAMILY

guidelines to help you determine when

DROPPINGS OR IT’S STRAINING TO

MEMBERS

and why it’s time to take your bird to an

ELIMINATE

avian veterinarian.

If this is a new problem for your bird, it

Sometimes, the first sign of a problem

may be a sign of illness, so don’t wait to

1. YOU HAVE JUST ACQUIRED

is a change in your bird’s droppings. If you

make an appointment. Even if your bird

A NEW BIRD

are noticing a change, or are seeing strain-

has never played with toys or has always

ing or matting of feces on the tail, it’s time

“ruffled its feathers” at your spouse, your

erinary visit. You want to be sure that your

to see your veterinarian.

avian veterinarian may be able to provide

new family member is healthy and free of

5. MY BIRD ISN’T EATING OR IS

behavioral advice and tips to encourage

infectious disease, get important nutritional

VOMITING

healthy play and more positive interactions

This is the most important time for a vet-

information, and learn how to keep your

Birds often experience changes in their

bird happy and safe in your home. If you

appetite when they are ill. They may stop

9. MY BIRD IS CHEWING AT ITS

are adding to your “flock”, it’s even more

eating certain foods, vomit , or stop eat-

FEATHERS

important that your new bird is tested for

ing completely. If a bird is not eating for

infectious diseases prior to bringing the

12-24 hours (12 for smaller birds), this can

may be due to underlying medical causes.

new bird home, so you don’t introduce

be life-threatening; seek veterinary care

Even if the cause is not medical, your

illness from the new bird to your beloved

immediately.

veterinarian can help you take steps to

pet or into your aviary.

6. MY BIRD IS BREATHING HARDER

minimize the damage and prevent it from

2. IT’S BEEN OVER A YEAR SINCE

THAN USUAL

becoming a lifelong bad habit.

YOUR LAST VISIT TO A VETERINARIAN Your bird doesn’t need vaccinations like

Birds unique respiratory system allows them to fly for long distances or at great

with family members.

Feather damaging behaviors in birds

10. MY BIRD NEEDS ITS WINGS AND NAILS TRIMMED

dogs and cats, but an annual examination

heights, but also leaves them very suscep-

by an avian veterinarian is a very important

tible to toxins and respiratory diseases. If

place for your routine grooming needs.

part of keeping your bird healthy. Your

your bird seems winded or is breathing

The staff is trained in safe handling of your

veterinarian will examine your bird from

hard, either at rest or after brief exercise,

pet, and can recognize subtle changes

beak to toe, evaluating for subtle changes

this may indicate a problem.

that might warrant veterinary attention.

60

www.houstonpettalk.com

An avian veterinary office is a great

Houston PetTalk Magazine

61

The MSRH Team Wants You! Adopters, Fosters, Financial Supporters and Volunteers make a BIG difference in the lives of the Minis.

MSRH is a non-profit, all volunteer organization.

We strive to place every mini in a loving foster home while waiting to meet their forever family.

Fosters and Adopters needed!

Visit our website or our Facebook page to see how you can be a part of something special.

Foster, Adopter and Volunteer applications are available on our website.

Donations accepted through our website.

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www.petandpalette.com*peale@sbcglobal.net*713 467-0312

62

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Now You Can Make a Difference

By Honoring A Wonderful Life!

Honor a lost pet by making a tax deductible donation to the Harris County Veterinary Medical Foundation in their name.

Your gift helps provide valuable information on pet medical and humane issues to other pet parents.

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

63

Conservation Corner

By: Martha Parker Houston Zoo

YELLOWSTONE FAMILY ADVENTURE As appreciative supporters of nature and wildlife, we at Houston PetTalk want to promote education and conservation of the world’s animal population. Each month we will bring you information on conservation efforts that are of special interest or have some connection to Houston through the Houston Zoo or other local organizers such as the TWRC Wildlife Center. This issue, we are highlighting the Houston Zoo’s new Family Adventure program designed to help families learn about conservation and wildlife. Look for other upcoming conservation stories so that you too can help save a species.

I

All photos © Houston Zoo

Pronghorn in Yellowstone National Park.

n July of this year, the Houston Zoo embarked on an exciting new journey; a program specifically designed

for families to spend time outside in nature, learning about wildlife, and taking action to protect species.The Yellowstone Family Adventure is part of the zoo’s travel program. The travel program exists to offer exciting opportunities to explore exotic destinations, observe wild creatures in their natural realms, and experience local cultures with the goal of inspiring conservation through experience and education.

To further enhance the program, the zoo worked with partners at Teton

Participants enjoy a stick race along Trout Lake.

Science Schools in Wyoming to develop a program strictly geared towards families. From July 8-13, the group

country for the very first time!

Because of the partnership with Teton

banded songbirds- a long-term project to determine the health of the bird

experienced the Grand Tetons and

Science Schools, the travel group was

population in the area. They also par-

Yellowstone with five families, most

able to do a wide variety of programs.

ticipated in a program called “Stream

of them experiencing this part of our

On day one, they observed as scientists

Team” which allows the community to

64

www.houstonpettalk.com

look at the health of Wyoming’s local water sources and aquatic wildlife. In just the first day alone all families actively participated in conservation work that is important in ensuring the wildlife of Yellowstone’s greater ecosystem is protected.

In addition to this hands-on work, travelers visited the Raptor Center, learning about large birds of prey that had become injured and were being rehabilitated for hopeful release back into the wild. They journeyed down the Snake River by boat learning about the

Moose spotted in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

wildlife that calls the river banks home and the amazing history of the region.

And no family adventure in the area would be complete without a visit to Yellowstone National Park-America’s oldest national park. The two days in the park were packed with hiking and exploring, and most memorably, wildlife viewing with opportunities to observe grizzly bears, black bears, pronghorn, bison, bald eagles, foxes, moose, and so many other species in their natural habitat. They learned about how many of these wild animals’ have counterparts living at the Houston Zoo and how they are ambassadors for the wild.

At the end of the adventure, the

Participants enjoy an evening float trip down the Snake River.

participants was that they appreciated

The Houston Zoo is already plan-

group reflected on what made the trip

the opportunity to spend time outdoors

ning and looking forward to a second

impactful for each family. Without a

in nature learning, exploring, taking ac-

family adventure program in 2016.

doubt, the overwhelming feeling from all

tion and having fun together as a family.

Check back soon on the website to find out more! http://www.houstonzoo.org/ experiences/travel-with-the-zoo/ You can help take action and protect animals that call Yellowstone home by purchasing toilet paper and paper towels made from recycled paper. This helps decrease the number of trees be-

Travelers participate in Teton Science Schools’ Stream Team to test the health of the water.

ing cut down which animals like bears Houston Zoo family adventure travelers celebrate their final evening in Wyoming!

depend on for their survival!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

65

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read the digital version of almost every issue at www.houstonpettalk.com.

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www.gcvs.com Pudge & Pancreatitis

Read about Pudge’s battle in this month’s Health Section Article.

Surgery & Orthopedics | Internal Medicine | Oncology | Neurology & Neurosurgery | Critical Care Dentistry & Oral Surgery | Dermatology & Allergy | Avian & Exotics | Diagnostic Imaging | Ophthalmology Cardiology | Sports Medicine | Rehabilitation & Fitness | Nutrition

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