May 2016

The Definitive Source for Houston Pet Lovers | May 2016

FANTASTIC FELINES

Unusual Cat Breeds • Perilous Play • Litter Box Lingo + Much More About America’s Most Owned Pet

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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SHOW YOUR AGING PET SOME PUPPY LOVE. The first time you saw him, you knew he was the one.

He still is.

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MAY 2016 Annual Cat Issue

Editorial

H

ey feline fanciers, this issue is for you! If kitty cats are your thing, then you will find lots of interesting information in our Annual Cat Issue. There is no doubt that cats are a great household pet. They are easier to care for in some regards than dogs or other small animals due to their independent nature and millions of years of evolution as a “sole proprietor” of sorts.

Did you know that cats are the most owned pet in the U.S.? Pet ownership of cats exceeds dogs by almost 8 million! Again, probably a testament to the feline's ability to function without as much human intervention as other pets but also their companionship. It’s so comforting to have a cat to stroke and lounge around with. No pestering to throw a ball or go outside, just sit back and chillax! So check out the feature to learn about health issues, some rare breeds, a few tips on behavior and much more.

In April, Houston PetTalk hosted our 7th Annual Doggy Party on the Plaza at CityCentre. Wow…what

Issue 4: Volume 16 www.houstonpettalk.com

a great celebration of all things dog! We had gorgeous weather, over 70 vendors, entertainment, celebrity emcees, great sponsors, and a uniquely fun rescue parade competition. Unfortunately Mayor Turner cancelled at the 9th hour but Chester Pitts (former Texan and sportscaster for KPRC) stepped in as Grand Marshal to delight the crowd.

See the fun on page 22-25 in a photo spread by Nature Dog Photography that captured the day.

Also in this issue is an article that I want to call attention to because it not only enlightens the reader about a deadly disease, but it underscores the deep devotion of humans to their pets and the lengths one is willing to go to save their companion’s life. A couple in Kingwood show what love can do for their 8 yr. old Goldendoodle, Vince. Read about their journey on page 52.

The month of May is special because we get the opportunity to celebrate motherhood. Whether it be human to human, animal to human or animal to animal, every species has mothers that sacrifice for the

We Love Cats!

Is this kitten on our cover not the cutest thing ever? Kittens are irresistible and if you are a cat enthusiast, you will enjoy our Annual Cat Issue featuring content on the perils of play, why it's safer for cats to live indoors, cool cat products, health concerns, cat behavior and more. Immerse yourself in "catdom" on page 28.

birth of their baby. Guess what great mother is watching over her baby at the Houston Zoo? Check it out on page 60.

May is also a great month to enjoy events with your pet and PetTalk is dedicated to helping you find just the right event, service or product in the Bayou City and surrounding areas. To put that information right at your fingertips, PetTalk is launching a listing service called PetTalk's GoFetch which allows pet owners to search by zip code for services in your neighborhood, or even mobile businesses that come to you. Plus, we have a great app for both iPhone and Android so you are never without the best information right at your paws. As with all new products, there will be some tweaks to be made so if you try the service and have suggestions, we welcome your feedback! Visit www.pettalkgofetch.com and start tracking, rating, marking your favorites, finding deals and much more. Enjoy!

HOUSTON PETTALK MAGAZINE 14781 Memorial Drive, Ste. 510, Houston, Texas 77079 281-556-6560 www.HoustonPetTalk.com Art Director: ANDREW BURWELL Editor's Assistant: REBECCA BURWELL-BOTELLO © Copyright 2016. 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.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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WHERE

IN THE

WORLD

IS PETTALK? You never know where on this planet you might find a PetTalk reader enjoying their copy!

Snap a picture of one of our readers and send it to info@houstonpettalk.com.

La Fortuna, Costa Rica Debbie and Steve, owners of Leaves & Lizards Retreat, enjoy PetTalk's Wildlife Issue as they stand in front of the wild and wonderful Arenal Volcano.

Mahogany Bay, Roatan, Honduras Victoria Garcia is enjoying PetTalk in the tropical paradise of Honduras. She sent us a postcard and we scanned it so we could share her joy with you!

Cliffs of Mohr, Ireland Melanie and Jennifer looking happy to be in such a gorgeous setting. They tell us they have been sharing the magazine for years with their mother and aunt in San Antonio. Annette and Carolyn, thanks for reading, and thanks to Melanie and Jennifer for sharing their vacay photo!

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Henrietta On: Why Dogs Are Better Than Cats They say NO I don’t want to be social with those people that stopped by, Having them pet me would be worse than a stick in my eye They say NO I will not get in that crate to go visit the vet, To that idea, I am very dead set

There is a long standing battle over dog vs. cat, It’s as heated as the age-old Republican vs. Democrat I for one, as you might guess, Believe that dogs prevail because we say “YES” YES to playing ball and fetching the paper, Chasing squirrels and any other caper YES to all sorts of food and treat, We’ll eat anything even if it smells like your feet YES to car rides, bike rides and pulling a cart, We’ll go anywhere and that my friend sets us apart

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We are positive beings that aim to please, Heck, we will do tricks for a piece of cheese We are easy going and full of good cheer, We're ready to protect because we have no fear Music to our ears are the words “Let’s Go”, To which you will never hear us say “NO" We are the species of YES and that’s what makes us superior, It’s really quite simple we are just plain cheerier In the opposing corner of this timeworn debate, Stands the species of which I most like to hate

It’s the species of NO and did I also say NO?, It’s the feline who owns this word as their national motto

So, I wonder why someone would want such thankless creatures, It defies understanding because they have no good features

They say NO I don’t like that food, it smells of rotten fish, And while you’re at it can you wash my dish?

They’re filled with NO’s and snooty personalities, Finicky habits and formalities

They say NO I don’t want to play with that silly old toy, If you would just leave me alone that would give me joy They say NO I don’t want to run or exercise in any shape or form, I prefer to curl up in the windowsill and lay where it’s warm

Why would one choose this species that’s aloof, When they could have a dog that’s a big silly goof?

As the YES’s of the world I declare an end to this spat, Dogs reign supreme because we rarely say NO only to a cat!

Illustration by Jim Tweedy, Colorized by Desiree Lonsway

They say NO you don’t own me so don’t get confused, And please don’t wallow in self pity and let your ego get bruised

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May 2016 For the full list of events and news: www.houstonpettalk.com

Announcements West Houston Subaru Donates $82,000 to Citizens for Animal Protection West Houston Subaru loves animals and has shown their support for their neighboring animal shelter, Citizens for Animal Protection (CAP), for over 5 years. During the Subaru Share the Love event, West Houston Subaru chose CAP as their “hometown charity”. From November 18 to January 2, each time a new Subaru was purchased from the dealership, Subaru of America donated $250 to one of four national charities or West Houston Subaru’s hometown charity, CAP. Ninety percent of West Houston Subaru’s customers chose CAP which resulted in $47,000 being raised for the animal shelter. The event was so successful that Subaru of America added an additional $10,000. Along with West Houston Subaru’s annual sponsorship of $25,000 to support adoption events at Citizens for Animal

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Protection, the money raised came to $82,000! To date, over the last 5 years, West Houston Subaru has donated, raised or helped CAP to raise over $550,000 for the purpose of finding homes for Houston’s homeless animal population and have sponsored the adoptions of over 3000 pets from CAP. Big kudos to West Houston Subaru!

Operation War Dogs 2016 Launches at Rover Oaks Pet Resort Rover Oaks Pet Resort is preparing to launch its sixth annual month-long donation drive, Operation: War Dogs to support the non-profit organization Mission K9 Rescue, the Houston chapter of the United States War Dogs Association (USWDA). The drive officially begins on Memorial Day and ends on Independence Day, July 4, 2016. In 2015, Rover Oaks raised over of $35,000 for Mission K9 Rescue through Operation: War Dogs.

To date, Rover Oaks has raised over $70,000 for the

West Houston Subaru delivers two MEGA checks to Citizens for Animal Protection.

United States War Dogs Association and its local chapters.

During Operation: War Dogs, donations will be accepted at Rover Oaks Pet Resort in Houston near NRG Stadium and Rover Oaks Katy near Katy Mills Mall. Donations can also be made via PayPal online at www.roveroaks.com/ wardogs. Rover Oaks will give a free night of lodging at their facilities to every donor who contributes $100 or more. Donations of $25 will receive a

commemorative army dog tag necklace or USWDA bandana. In addition, Rover Oaks will decorate their facilities with patriotic paw prints presenting the names of the clients and community members who contribute to Mission K9 Rescue. Every dollar counts and anyone interested in donating is encouraged to stop by one of Rover Oaks locations to make a contribution in their name or in honor of a soldier or war dog they wish to recognize. www.roveroaks.com

Mission K9 Rescue received over $35,000 in 2015 from Rover Oaks Pet Resort's fundraising campaign.

Photo provided by Rover Oaks

H

ey Party Animals...Did you know you can add your own pet related event to our event calendar online? Go to www.houstonpettalk.com/events.

Photo provided by West Houston Subaru

The Dish

Events All Month Despurrate Housecats Houston Humane Society 14700 Almeda Rd., 77053 Things are heating up on Whiskerteria Lane, and every cat is feeling a bit crowded. For the entire month of May, all felines will have a special 2 for 1 adoption fee of $50. www.HoustonHumane.org

5.1.16-5.15.16 Chihuahua De Mayo Houston Humane Society 14700 Almeda Rd., 77053 Help homeless Chihuahua and Chihuahua mixes 6 months of age and older find new homes for Cinco de Mayo. April 30 - May 15, an extra special adoption price of just $50 will be offered to help all Chihuahua and Chihuahua mixes find their forever home. www.HoustonHumane.org

5.6.16 Martinis for Mutts 6:30pm-9:30pm, Starting at $51.99 French Alliance 427 Lovett Blvd., 77006 Join Houston's finest for an evening of martinis, music, hors d'oeuvres, wine, fabulous auction, and of course puppies.

The event benefits Pup Squad. Tickets available online and at the door. www.pupsquad.org

5.7.16 Menilfest 11am-5pm, Free The Menil Collection 1533 Sul Ross St., 77006 A day of performances, readings, and a showcase of independent authors and publishers on the award winning Menil Grounds. Bring some blankets, a lawn chair, a festive attitude and sunscreen to enjoy the book fair, young writers reading, the music of John Luther Adams, and the Meta-Four Poetry Slam.

Friendly pets on a leash are welcome. www.menilfest.com

5.16.16 3rd Annual Doggone 5K Run & 1 Mile Run/ Walk 8am-11am, Starting at $30 Sugar Land Memorial Park 15300 University Blvd., 77479 Join in the fun with a dog-friendly race including a 5k and a 1 mile competition. Dress up your pup for the costume contest and enjoy the event benefitting Fort Bend Cares. Register online. www.fortbendcares.org

5.21.16 Pull for Puppies 9-10am, $20 Per Player City Centre Houston 800 Town and Country Blvd., 77024 Pull for Puppies is a tug

of war tournament and pet festival. Teams from all over the Houston area are coming out to play tug of war, while raising funds for the Forgotten Pet Advocates. Head out to watch the event for free, or compete and help with the fundraising. To participate, gather a team of 6-10 people and sign up for the tournament online. www.pullforpuppies.com

5.21.16 Puppies for Breakfast 10am-2pm, $5 Suggested Donation Market Square Park 301 Milam St., 77002 Grab some breakfast with your puppies and get out of the house for some fun at this downtown dog event featuring a costume contest, music, food trucks, vendors, and local artists. www.puppiesforbreakfast.com

5.22.16 Yuppie Market 1pm-5pm Yuppie Dog Daycare 2203 Durham Dr., 77007 Dogs are welcome on a leash at this fun shop and sip event. Check out local vendors and enjoy the mimosa and wine bar.

Four food trucks have planned attendance and proceeds of sales will go to an attending rescue group showcasing their adoptable pets. www.yuppiedog.com

ASK THE

VET

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

My dog cries when I pick him up or touch his stomach every now and then.

Why does he do this?

-Mrs. Wade Abdominal pain and back pain both can cause a pet to cry out when the abdomen is touched.

A veterinary examination is recommended for a pet that whimpers or cries when touched to ensure they are pain free and truly healthy, and not just "ticklish." Commonly, pets present to the vet and have a need for care such as pain medication but it's important to seek evaluation for illness like back pain, pancreatitis, bladder stones, or worse which can cause abdominal discomfort.

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!

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Unleashed Doggies who

Brunch

2/2

9/1

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B

runch anyone? This fun event at Graffiti Kitchen + Bar went off without a hitch and even gained =some notoriety with an appearance on Fox News.

The doggies munched on breakfast treats prepared especially for their delicate palates while making new friends.

The event, promoted by online blog Sparkle Posh Pup, featured local sponsors Urban Tails, Daisy Care, International Veterinary Services and Natural Pawz. Sparkle, the dog of the blog, will be on tour during May and June, visiting Texas area events for pets.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Unparalleled Level of Patient Care Tracy T. McAdoo D.V.M. Lynda L. Case D.V.M. Lindsey B. Hipke D.V.M. Stacy A. O'Malley D.V.M. Tina L. Pilgram D.V.M Phone: 713.802.2366 Fax: 713.802.2490

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Meet your new best friend at ADORE Houston.

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e-mail: info@whvetclinic.com www.whvetclinic.com

WE'RE

WILD ABOUT THE HOUSTON ZOO Visit the Texas Direct Auto Wildlife Carousel

SELL US YOUR CAR! Proud Partner of the Houston Zoo

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Title SPONSOR: Houston Dog Ranch

Premium SPONSORS: Carter’s Pet Depot Arne’s Warehouse Pet Supply Store

Specialty SPONSORS:

The Best Doggy Party In Town

P

etTalk’s 7th Annual Doggy Party on the Plaza at CityCentre April 2 was a doggy affair to remember! The festivities brought out Houston’s dog loving community to celebrate the amazing canine. Doggy Party is host to the most unique pet event in Houston, boasting the

Who loves a parade?

Citizens for Animal Protection!

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one-of-a-kind Rescue Me! Parade showcasing area rescue groups competing for prizes. Enjoy the scenes from the day including sponsors, vendors, entertainers, parade participants, costume contest entries, the mascot dance-off and simply, good looking doggies!

Photos: Nature Dog Photography.

North Frwy Hyundai and Humble Hyundai - Rescue Me! Parade VERGI 24/7 - Rescue Row North Houston Veterinary Specialists - Costume Contests The Fritz Kennel - Tshirts Heartguard & Nexguard - Doggie Lounge K9s4Cops - Video, Snacks and Branded Water

Major In-Kind SPONSORS: Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists Nature Dog Photography Poo The Rescue Houston Texans Grille

Parade Rescues: Basset Buddies Rescue of Texas Bay Area Pet Adoptions/SPCA Citizens for Animal Protection Corridor Rescue Forgotten Dogs of the 5th Ward Golden Beginnings GH German Shepherd Dog Rescue HCPHES Veterinary Public Health Loving Arms Pet Placement Mini Schnauzer Rescue of Houston Schnauzer Rescue of Texas Special Pals Shelter Westie & Scottie Rescue of Houston

HOUSTON DOG RANCH

Title Sponsor HOUSTON DOG

RANCH says Aloha!

ialists Veterinary Spec North Houston r so on Sp t es Costume Cont

Sponsor: Carter's Pet Depot showcasing their healthy pet products.

r shows of Hyundai Sponso sedan. ul tif au their be

Sponsor: K9s4 Cops introdu ced their awesome cani nes to the publ ic.

Sponsor: Arne's Warehouse supporting rescue!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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EMCEES AND JUDGES ON THE JOB

Friends of BA RC and Ange l Pets raising money for Hou ston's homeles s pets.

Deborah Duncan of Great Day Houston chats it up with the kids.

Patriotic is ALWAYS a winner!

The best pet-loving meteorologist ever -David Paul of KHOU Ch. 11.

Our Judges: Bruce Padilla, Bianca Bucaram, Meera Nandlal, Mia Gradney and daughter (being photobombed by no other than our groovy emcee, David Paul).

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Photos By: Nature Dog Photography

We love Brilliant Energy because they GIVE so much to the animals of Houston!

THE BEST DOGGY FUN IN HOUSTON!

4th Place: Miniature Schnauzer Rescue of Houston shows of their cowboys and cowgirls.

J.J. Watt???

Stars Wars Theme 1st Place - Golden Beginnings Golden Retriever Rescue

Smile...you are on the doggy cam !

Parade Grand Marshal, Chester

nner:

me Contest Wi 1st Place Costu Poodle Soup

Pitts

Big Dog "Dance-Off" with Sunset Blvd. Animal Clinic's "Sunny" and Poo the Rescue's "Scooper"

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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OUR PASSION IS

EMERGENCY MEDICINE

THE TRUSTED CHOICE Emergency Care Services Offered: • Trained doctors & veterinary assistants • Blood pressure monitoring • Cardiovascular monitoring & ECG • Emergency surgery • Emergency examinations • Advanced diagnostics • In-house labwork

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FANTASTI FELINES "With the qualities of cleanliness, affection, patience, dignity, and courage that cats have, how many of us, I ask you, would be capable of becoming cats?" ~ Fernand Mery

By Michelle Mantor and contributing writers as noted.

From left to right photos Š kot2626, Andrey_Kuzmin, Mny-Jhee, lifeonwhite.

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IC

J

umping, pouncing, darting, purring...it's all the crazy behaviors that makes the feline such an adored companion. Cats are the most owned pet in America. Yes, it's true dog owners! However, there is a weird quirk to the statistic. There are actually more households that own dogs than cats although there are more cats in the U.S., which probably doesn't surprise cat

lovers because they know cats are so fantastic that you can't have just one!

Looking to add a rare cat breed to your home? Or perhaps you would like to train your cat to walk on a leash.

Better yet, you might want to know what's the latest in cat litter or a trendy cat product.

Read on for your voyage into the world of cats...it's the PURRfect place to learn more about kitty catdom!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Are Calico and Tortoiseshell Cats More Problematic Than Other Felines?

Their Owners Seem to Think So...

F

statistically more likely to express these behaviors than solid pattern cats, which seem more balanced and less irritable.

Calicos and tortoiseshell are not breeds of cats; those names describe

©kovalvs

or years, calico and tortoiseshell cats have been described as princesses, neurotic, temperamental, and strong willed, among other labels.

Veterinarians have long observed that cats with

these coat patterns are feistier and more unpredictable during office visits than other types of felines.

Researchers from UC Davis Veterinary School recently substantiated this reputation with a study that asked 1,200 cat owners to rank their pets with the behaviors of hissing, scratching, swatting or biting in relationship to coat color. The study found that calicos and torties were

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their coat color patterns. Calicos are mostly white with patches of orange and black, while tortie coats have a mix of black, brown, amber and red without the calico’s large amounts of white. Most of these cats are female because of genetics: it takes the presence of two X chromosomes to make the coat patterns.

Cheryl Stanley, DVM, is

a feline specialist practicing at Lexington Boulevard Animal Hospital in Sugar Land, agrees that, in general, calicos and torties tend to be strong-willed, confident cats that want things their way. “They are more sensitive to environments and stimuli and are less tolerant of changes or things that are not to their liking. Obviously, the veterinary office is not a place that is conducive to them being happy or content, so they frequently are the ones that are seen to act out more often and overtly,” she says.

“In the home, they are usually the ones that will swat first when there is an interaction between cats. They may hiss or growl when awakened from sleep.”

Aggression in cats is a method of communicating that they are fearful or irritated, asserting dominance, or protecting themselves. It’s very different than aggression in dogs, which generally show

more warning signs before acting out in an aggressive action. “Owners often describe sitting with their cats petting them then suddenly, without warning, the cat turns and bites or swats at them. Cats also exhibit more hunting and stalking type aggressive behaviors than do dogs,” according to Stanley.

Stanley feels this survey should in no way suggest that calicos and torties make bad pets; it’s a matter of people educating themselves about the type of pet that is right for them.

“These types of cats might not be the best for a household with small children or multiple pets. A cat should never be chosen based on color pattern alone. Each cat is an individual and each should be evaluated as such. When considering adopting a cat, owners should meet them and see how they interact with you and other animals and respond to things in the environment.”

Ultimately, Stanley says, “Calicos and torties can be wonderful pets. They are also described as fun, being clowns, smart and very interactive with owners. Life with them will definitely be interesting.”

©belchonock

By: Mara Soloway

How Many Cats is Too Many?

By: Rebecca Burwell-Botello

A

s animal advocates, we generally encourage readers and citizens to take charge of the homeless pet population and to give time, money, and energy to these animals who may otherwise perish unnoticed in the streets.

Often this means adopting a new pet into your home.

However, at what point do you officially have "too many" cats? The truthful answer may be a question.

There are many things to consider before adopting another cat.

Cats are territorial. You

will need to have at least one litter box per cat, plus at least one extra to ensure that all waste goes where you want it to go...in the litter box!

More cats also means more expenses. Look at your budget to see if you can afford the food, vet care, litter, dental care, potential emergency visits and end of life care.

Additional pets will require additional cleaning.

Hair accumulates in unseen areas, and although your home looks clean to you, your guests with allergies may have another

opinion on the matter.

Think about your neighbors. You may also need to check with your homeowner's association, landlord, roommates, and city codes to be sure you are not violating any agreements or laws governing the number or type of pets you may have on your property.

Dr. Marty Becker, DVM, asks a question of pet owners considering adding another pet: "Are you happy? Are you taking care of yourself? Are your cats happy? Are you taking care of them? Is your

house in reasonably good shape, and are you able to keep it clean and healthy?

Are you able to pay for your needs and your cats' needs, and have a reserve for a rainy day? Are you able to keep the cats from being a nuisance or a hazard? Are they altered to prevent unplanned litters?"

Perhaps you can reasonably care for 10, and that may be the case, but some folks out there are just one cat kind of people, and that's okay! Make your choice with you and your cats' best interest in mind.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Kitty Cat No-No's

S

trangely enough, two of the most common photos you see of felines involve two things that are not good for your cat– yarn and milk. There are equally as many photos of a fat cat. Here's why all of these images give the wrong impression:

Say no to a fat cat help his weight problem. He’s not a happy fat cat. He’s just fat. Find a way to make his life more enriched to promote weight loss. Of course, have your veterinarian do an exam to rule out medical reasons for extra pounds.

How can I tell if my cat is too fat?

Look down at your cat. You should be able to see a waist when you look down from the top, or when you run your hands from ribs to hips. Run your hand along its abdomen from its ribs to its pelvis and it should be indented.

Death by yarn

Milk may lead to diarrhea...yuck!

Cow’s milk is actually not a good choice for cats and is certainly not to be used as a water replacement.

Once kittens are weaned they actually become lactose intolerant. Their bodies no longer produce an adequate amount of the lactase enzyme that’s crucial for digesting lactose. If you feed milk to your cat it could result in diarrhea.

If you’ve given a little milk as a treat to your cat and she hasn’t had any digestive trouble as a result, then offering a small amount occasionally is ok.

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Yes, a ball of yarn is fun but can be deadly. Cats love that yarn is light and rolls easily. However, if swallowed, yarn can become a serious choking hazard. Cats have backward-facing barbs on their tongues, giving the cat’s tongue that scratchy texture.

The barbs are used to help remove dead hair, dirt and any external parasites from the cat’s coat. As efficient as the barbs are when it comes to certain functions, their positioning make it impossible for the cat to spit anything

out that gets caught on the tongue. Anything that lands on the tongue has only one direction to go… down. Once swallowed, the yarn can end up causing a blockage anywhere from the throat to the intestines. It can pull at the intestines and actually cause a tear. String or yarn can also get tangled around a cat and be a strangulation risk.

If your cat swallows yarn, go to the veterinarian immediately. Do not try to pull the yarn because further damage could result.

From left to right photos © hannamonika, Klanneke, Tsekmister,

If your cat is overweight because he eats too much, then there are common beliefs that obesity can lead to shorter life spans, diabetes, or joint and skin problems.

But often, cats are overweight for other reasons. First, figure out why your cat is overweight. Is he not moving enough because he’s terrified of the dog? Do the kids hassle him? Or, is he bored because there’s nothing to do in the house so he just sits around and eats? If that’s the case, then changing his diet or the amount of food won’t

Why Train Your Cat? Feline Behavior Tips

By Catlanna

T

raining your cat may sound like an oxymoron, but it actually is a very useful tool in your toolbox. Every animal has the ability to learn, and your cat is smarter than you may think. With just a few minutes a day, you could not only train your cat to have useful and fun behaviors, but you can also teach them behaviors that could save their life.

Most people have heard of clicker training, especially in reference to dog training. Clicker training is a form of mark-reward training that is very popular. When choosing the marker to use with your cat, keep in mind that your cat may think the click is loud, annoying or startling.

Alternative options to using a click as a marker are: a voice click, a kiss noise, an unusual distinctive word, a pen click, or a very short ringtone. Whichever marker sound you pick, be sure to use it consistently and only when you are cueing the desired behavior. For example, you would not want to choose to say “good boy” as your marker, when you tell your cat he is a good boy all day long when not in training.

Before you begin a training regimen, remember to consult an animal trainer, behavior consultant and/or veterinarian.

Target training is easy for

most cats to learn, because they instinctively reach out to touch items with their nose in order to smell them when introduced to their environment. Target training opens a two-way communication with your cat. By using small approximations toward the desired behavior with positive reinforcement, you will be able to use the baseline of target training to build a multitude of other behaviors. For example, it can be used to move a cat to a spot you want them to move to without physical contact, and to introduce fun behaviors such as weave and go through a hoop.

When working with a cat on a behavior modification plan, it is most important that training is more fun to the cat than the alternative undesired behavior. If your cat has the basic behaviors (touch, sit, go-to-mat, stay-on-mat) then each of these behaviors can be cued before or during an undesired behavior. For example, if your cat likes to counter-surf and you see that they are about to jump onto the counter, you can present the opportunity for reward by offering go-to-mat, mark, and then reward. Your cat will soon learn playing the “game” with you is more fun and rewarding than looking for scraps on the counter.

When working with a

cat who is fearful of their carrier, using markreward training can alter the cat’s perception of the carrier. By showing your cat that rewards come when they go near the carrier, or inside it for those cats who are more advanced, then the cat now has a positive association to the carrier.

You will also be able to teach your cat to enter the carrier on cue using markreward training.

Wouldn’t that make vet visits so much easier?

One of the most fun things that you can use mark-reward training for is walking on a leash. First, you’ll need to get your cat conditioned to the harness and leash, which also has a process to follow. Once accustomed, your cat is ready to learn how to walk beside you on a leash so you can go on outdoor adventures (but don’t forget your flea prevention). Another useful reason for leash

training, is to use the leash during introductions and re-introductions of cat-cat, cat-baby, cat-dog, etc.

The most important behavior you can teach your cat through markre-

ward training is the recall, also known as “come”. Anytime you are in an emergency (such as a fire) and you need to scoop up your beloved cat, you can use the recall.

In addition to useful cues, you can also incorporate fun behaviors such as high-five, roll-over and agility. Most importantly, utilizing mark-reward training with your cat increases the level of your bond. Think of it as a fun game you do together, where everybody wins!

For information visit www.catlanna.com.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Unusual Kitties: Rare Breeds

Devon Rex

T

he Devon Rex is characterized by large ears, a small impish face and prominent eyes. Considered to be a good choice for those with allergies, the Devon Rex's coat is soft and wavy. They are know to be very intelligent, thus able to quickly learn tricks and amusing skills. It is often said that Devon Rex owners need to be "ready" for this breed because they will stick with you like glue, following you, sleeping with you, trailing your around the house and sitting in your lap.

Basically, they love to get cozy! If you want a cat that can be trained to walk on a leash and be totally devoted to you, then the Devon Rex just might be the ticket!

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Sphynx

T

he Sphynx is a breed of cat developed through selective breeding starting in the 1960s, known for its lack of a coat (fur), though it is not truly hairless.

Although Sphynx cats lack a coat to shed or groom, they are not maintenance-free. Body oils, which would normally be absorbed by the hair, tend to build up on the skin. Regular bathing is usually necessary on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Care should be taken to limit the Sphynx cat's exposure to outdoor sunlight at length, as they are susceptible to sunburn and skin damage. Sphynxes are known for their extroverted behavior. They display a high level of energy, intelligence, curiosity, and affection for their owners. They are one of the more dog-like breeds of cats, frequently greeting their owners at the door and friendly when meeting strangers.

Oriental Blue Point Siamese

T

he Siamese cat is the foundation stock for many other breeds and consistently has a sophisticated look. Originally exported in the 1800's from Thailand (formerly known as Siam), this oriental cat is known to be affectionate.

This ancient breed is able to communicate like no other. The Siamese voice is legendary. Known as a "people" cat, Siamese love to sit in your lap, lay in bed with your or even sit on the table while you work. If you are looking for a cat that combines intelligence with beauty and a loving nature, the Siamese is a good choice.

There are many color choices but the Blue Point is one of our favorites!

From left to right photos Š FotoJagodka, FineShine, FotoJagodka, nelyninell, Eddie100164

Looking For an Interesting Feline to Join Your Family?

Check Out These Unusual Breeds of Cat:

Engaging Your Cat in Healthy Play

By Rebecca Burwell-Botello

I

f your cat is displaying unruly behavior, he or she may be bored. Like children, cats without something to do will find an activity, whether it benefits you or not. Keeping your pet active can help lower their energy levels while you are tending to your life outside the home, and you'll be enriching their lives as well.

You may have heard that cats don't play games like fetch and tug. That is false. Cats will play with you if you engage them with something that is interesting.

As with dogs, they require regular interaction to learn social cues. It's a common misconception that cats are a "set it and forget it" type of pet. You must develop some form of communication with your pet in order to engage them. You can definitely teach your cat to fetch, but if you never interact with them they will never understand why you are throwing their toys across the room. Developing a form of language between you and your pet is key to relationship building.

Cats are natural predators, and enjoy stalking, pouncing, and chasing in their free time. Any pet store will carry the tools you need, from laser pointers to sticks with feathers and simple toss toys, there are a plethora of choices.

You just need to find which ones your cat enjoys most. Remember that they will get bored with just one toy, so give them options. Try keeping some toys put away, then you will have something "new" to bring out later when he or she is bored with another toy.

Your cat still won't play? Try catnip!

Popular toy brand, Kong, makes a special catnip spray that works wonders for attracting cats without the mess of dry herbs. Of course the real stuff is great, and can be sprinkled on everything from food to cat trees.

Which brings us to our next point: environment.

Set your cat up for success with a great cat-friendly environment. Cats shed their nails in layers and will naturally seek a place to scratch and remove that top layer of nail. If you don't provide somewhere for your cat to do this, they will try your carpet or even worse, your furniture. Get your cat a tree with at least one good, textured place for scratching.

Cats also enjoy being in locations with high visibility. For example, they may like the top of your refrigerator or bookshelves. Give your cat a place that they can feel secure and scan the room, and you will have a happy household.

Create a unique space by adding wall mounted shelving above head height for your cats to explore and relax. You

can start it near the top of their tree so they can leap to it.

If your home is set up for it, you can provide an outdoor enclosure that your cat can access. Installing a cat door is fairly simple, and a handyman can easily help you out. If you have an enclosed area outdoors, your cat will enjoy the fresh air and a new place to explore.

Still, many of us do not have the luxury of an enclosed patio area. You can give your kitty similar excitement by engaging their sense of smell. A variety of animal scents are available from most hunting suppliers, which you can spray on any box you plan to throw out. We guarantee you will see immediate interest from your cat. You may have seen this technique used at the zoo and other animal habitats. This is a great way to create a simple enrichment device on the cheap.

If all else fails, you can contact a professional cat behaviorist (See pg. 33), who will talk with you about your pet and help develop solutions to problematic and recurring behavior.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Outdoor Living Seven Potential Pitfalls of Outdoor Living 4. Fighting - cat quarrels among

outdoor cats can result in abscesses, the spread of disease, injuries and even death.

Hanging/Choking - If your cat is outdoors with a collar, hanging or choking is a definite risk.

Struck By A Car - not much explanation needed here. Traffic is a risk to any loose animal.

Toxoplasmosis - this single celled organism can be ingested when cats eat prey that has been exposed. Not only can it kill a cat, it is contagious to people and can result in severe birth defects to human babies whose mothers are exposed during pregnancy. Wearing rubber gloves while handling litter pan duties and gardening is highly recommended for pregnant women. It is NOT necessary to rehome your precious kitty.

It’s a proven fact that cats who live indoors have a longer life span than those cats that live outdoors or have access to outdoors. There are plenty of toys, food puzzles and snuggles inside to keep your cat active and stimulated.

5.

6.

M

any cat owners worry that making their cats stay inside is unnatural and deprives them of their need to roam, explore, and meet other cats. However, the risks of an outdoor life are far greater than the benefits. Let’s exam the perils an outdoor cat may face:

1. Disease - some diseases for

which there are no current vaccines or are not readily available include Feline Leukemia and

2.

3.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis, both of which are prevalent and deadly.

Heartworm - there is a perception that cats do not get heartworm but this is not correct.

Although not as common as in dogs, cats can get heartworm from mosquito bites and there is no shortage of mosquitoes in Houston.

Skin Cancer - light colored cats are especially susceptible to skin cancer due to sunlight exposure.

Common Cat Malady: Urinary Tract Problems Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) is a collection of conditions that affects the bladder and urethra of cats.

One of these conditions (the most common) is feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), which is inflammation of the bladder with an unknown cause. About twothirds of cats with FLUTD have FIC. Diagnosis requires urinalysis, ultrasound and sometimes blood work or a biopsy. Some of these conditions are curable but many of them are not and require management involving diet and

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Watch for more on this story at

medication. Symptoms include inappropriate urination (outside the litter box), licking at the abdomen, increased frequency of urination or any behavior that is not normal for that particular cat (hiding, lethargy, no appetite, aggression).

If you suspect urinary issues with your feline, visit your veterinarian for an exam. Remember, cats, like many other animals, hide pain due to their natural instincts and urinary problems can be very painful. It’s better to be proactive than to let your kitty suffer! , www.cw39.com in May.

From left to right photos © kaczor58, edu1971

7.

Indoor Living Creating Cozy Spaces

All That Glitters is Not Gold, The Low Down on Cat Litter By: Rebecca Burwell-Botello

Gettin' Groovy: FeltField Feline Felt House If you're looking for something unique for your kitty, you can take a "paws" from your search! these amazing felted cat beds are made of natural wool that has been through a heating process known as felting that makes them ultra durable and difficult to scratch or pull apart. Your kitty will enjoy the warmth of the enclosed wool environment, and you will enjoy looking at your new creative cat furniture.

These kitty caves, made by Yuliya Kosata of Khariv, Ukraine, are especially beautiful. You can see all Yuliya's wares on her Etsy store, FeltField.

Clay, pine, crystals, enclosed, open, tall, short... there are so many options for feline doody duty we'd often rather not "do". All the products on the market currently have their pros and cons, and there is not a single litter solution that eliminates your involvement completely. You will want to choose a litter box set up that will compliment your sensibilities and your cat's purrticular preferences.

The Luuup Litter Box www.luuup.com Set to ship this month, the Luuup Litter Box claims it is the last litter box you will ever have to buy. This year, Luuup raised 1.25 million dollars on Indiegogo, blowing all other crowd funded pet products out of the water.

The sifting litter box is not new, however, this box design uses a variation of interlocking slotted pans that

is new. Picking up the top pan filters out the solid waste with a "panning for gold" type motion. The clean litter flows through to below. After you dispose of the leftovers, that pan goes at the bottom of the stack. You can pick up the Luuup for $38 online at the time of printing.

The Cat Genie www.catgenie.com The Cat Genie is a litter box that uses plastic granules and has a self flushing system. This means it has to have access to intake water, a place to dump the waste, and an electrical outlet. If you have all three of those, you're set! The machine runs a sanitary solution through the granules, and liquefies the solid materials, disposing of it in either your toilet or the wastewater tube your washing machine uses. If you let it run into a toilet, just flush the matter away and you are done with litter for the day. You can find the Cat Genie starting at around $200 online.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

37

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Sauder Modular Cat Tower Warm dark wood and carpet accents on this simple design create a silhouette that is clean and elegant. www.bedbathandbeyond. com, $180

Tetra Desktop Aquarium Kit A gorgeous tank that includes a filter and lights. www.petco.com, $30

Put a Bird on It Changing up your decor means these reversible throw pillow cases can change as often as your mood does. www.rosenberryrooms. com, $50

Wooden Jigsaw Cuckoo Clock Add some pop to your living space with this minimalist, colorful clock.

Available in 6 colors. www.allmodern.com, $70

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Silver Fox Bottle Stopper The perfect gift for any lover of fine things. www.jonathanadler.com, $24

Mid Century Modern Couch Add a stylish touch to your living space with new furniture for your pet. Velvet upholstery and felt gliders make this a quality item you and your best friend will be drooling over. www.wayfair.com, $155

Designer Diner Petrageous' Buddy's Best Feeder pet diner set is beautiful to look at and keeps your pet's food off the ground.

It's smooth lines and sleek design will fit right into your home's decor. Available in Red, White, and Green. Find it at Fondren 5 Star Pet Resort when you book your next boarding, training, or daycare appointment!

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THE MOD PET

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Puzzling Dinner Plans Make your pet slow down and savor the moment with the Outward Hound Fun Feeder. The nodules and ridges prevent your pet from eating too quickly, swallowing air, and over eating. As a bonus, the fun colors make a great addition to any home. www.amazon.com, $15

The "Charlie" Leather Dog Collar This gorgeous leather collar features intricate geometric brass accents and a fetching red hue. www.collierleeds.com, $90

Mod Dream Pod Perfect for cats and small dogs, this mod pod can be purchased with or without a heating element, making it the best spot in the house for a warm nap. www.khpet.com, $70

The "Joey" High Back Dog Bed Want to wow your guests? Impress them with this chic bed from Pup and Kit. It comes in three different wood tones, plus lots of great modern fabric choices. www.pupandkit.com, Starting at $619

Bulldog Figurine Add some pop to your living room with this colorful figurine from Wayfair. www.wayfair.com, $45

Valek Rolling Pins Making biscuits? Don't forget to emboss them with kitties!

These unique rolling pins are quite frankly amazing. www.etsy.com, $33.94

Anigram Ring Holder Coated with enamel and chrome, this loyal ring holder will guard your jewels with its life. www.umbra.com, $8 Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Health Body, Mind, and Spirit

❖

By: Kim Shotola, www.thelightfootway.com

H

olistic animal care (HAC) looks at the animal as a whole - on a body, mind and spirit level. There are many benefits to HAC: ❖ Anyone can learn how to do holistic animal care. ❖ It can be offered to any kind of animal. ❖ HAC can prevent, reduce or eliminate physical, mental and emotional issues. ❖ It can deepen your relationship with the animals in your care. ❖ HAC can save you time, money and your animal’s health. ❖ It can help animals to live happier, healthier and longer lives. ❖ Holistic animal care works by getting to the heart and soul of the problem.

Modalities that anyone can learn how to do include nutrition, muscle testing, energy work, animal communication, color therapy, crystal therapy,

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flower essences, aromatherapy and Emotional Freedom Technique. ❖ Nutrition is the foundation of your animal’s well-being. Muscle testing uses the body’s energy to help you select the proper diet for any animal, along with supplements and their precise amounts. ❖ Muscle testing is also key to choosing the right color, crystals, essences, essential oils, etc. Then, this technique is used to determine the correct frequency and duration. ❖ Energy work uses the body’s innate energy to help calm and heal.

When you offer healing energy to your animal, you also reap the many benefits. ❖ Animal communication can help you to understand why an animal is behaving a certain way and if they are

❖

❖

❖

calming to fighting off pests. Therapeutic grade essential oils can be smelled or applied topically (avoiding topical application with cats.) ❖ Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) works on acupressure points that are connected to emotions and organs.

Even though originally created for people, it can have great results with animals.

You may not be familiar with all of these methods but keep an open mind.

You truly can change not only your animal’s life, but yours too. And even better, holistic animal care is fun and simple to learn when you know the profound difference you are making in the lives of the animals in your care.

Pet parents and animal professionals around the world have joined The Lightfoot Way’s Animal Heart & Soul Learning Center. Join May 1622 and receive some extra special gifts! To learn more, visit www.

TheLightfootWay.com.

Photo © FotoJagodka

Holistic Animal Care for All

experiencing any discomfort. It is helpful for finding lost animals and to assist those that are crossing over.

Color therapy is simple and can make a huge impact. A towel or sheet in the animal’s healing color can be placed where they can lay on or near it to receive the color’s healing energy.

Crystal therapy is nature at its best. Natural or polished crystals can be placed on or near your animal, making sure they are unable to ingest them.

Flower essences were originally created by a medical doctor to treat emotional illness.

Essences have the ability to heal deep emotional wounds including those that have manifested into a health issue.

Aromatherapy works on many levels, from

Health

Blocked Cat Syndrome Bladder Stones In Our Feline Friends Can Be Deadly By: Kate Lawrence and Dr. Brittany Neal, DACVS Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists www.gcvs.com

J

oey was a typical cat. He loved catnip, naps, and sunning himself on the back of the couch whenever possible.

Everything was perfect, until his owner noticed one day that Joey had stopped eating, was visiting the litter box a lot more than usual, and seemed to be straining to urinate.

however, it’s possible for female cats to become blocked as well.

Animals become blocked when mucous and crystals or bladder stones make their way from the bladder down the urethra, and are too large to continue to pass through the small space. This is why male cats are so much more

get comfortable, straining to urinate with very little urine production, if any.

When a cat is blocked, it is a life-threatening emergency that needs immediate veterinary care. It’s possible for the bladder to rupture, or for the toxins built up in the system from the urine to cause death within 1-2 days. Initially, Joey’s family veterinarian attempted to place a urinary catheter and relieve the blockage, allowing him to urinate.

When that was unsuccessful an x-ray was taken of Joey’s abdomen, revealing the presence of multiple bladder stones both in his bladder and wedged in his urethra. Joey’s vet immediately recommended that

owner will have to keep a close eye on him in the future. Some cats become re-blocked over and over, and these advanced cases often require a delicate surgical procedure called a perineal urethrostomy (PU). A PU involves creating a new opening in the urethra where it is larger in diameter and less likely to become obstructed or blocked in the future.

Consultation with a boardcertified surgeon may be recommended for these patients to discuss the complex surgery and subsequent aftercare.

There are many cats who suffer from urinary pathology, but unfortunately cats are very adept at hiding most ailments

When a cat is blocked, it is a lifethreatening emergency that needs immediate veterinary care.

Patient with Bladder Stones

Concerned, she called her family veterinarian, who advised her to bring Joey in right away. He explained that he suspected Joey might be suffering from a urethral obstruction, or “blocked cat” syndrome.

This condition affects male cats almost exclusively;

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likely to become blocked – their urethras are much smaller than their female counterparts, especially at the end, where it narrows. When a cat becomes blocked, the symptoms can include decreased appetite, vocalization (crying), hiding, inability to

Joey undergo a surgical procedure called a cystotomy with a veterinary surgical specialist. During a cystotomy procedure, the surgeon cuts into the bladder to remove any stones or sediment that could cause continued irritation and blockage.

Luckily for Joey, the cystotomy procedure was a complete success, and he was able to go home soon after his surgery. A change in diet based on an analysis of the bladder stones will help prevent or delay the formation of new stones, but Joey’s

until they become serious.

It’s important to monitor your cat for subtle signs of discomfort, frequent urination, inappropriate urination, or change in appetite.

Cats with urinary issues can live full and happy lives, even in severe cases, with surgical intervention and on-going medical management. Talk to your family veterinarian about medical management options for your pet, and if necessary, speak with a veterinary surgeon about surgical options to help manage of your cat’s urinary problems.

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Health

Veterinary Emergencies...

Are You Financially Prepared?

By: Linda J Croto, M.Ed. VERGI 24/7 Emergency & Critical Care Hospital www.vergi247.com

I

f you have pets, there is a good possibility you will experience a veterinary emergency at some time. One of the more unsettling parts of an emergency is trying to answer the question, “How am I going to pay for this?” The easiest way to take some of the financial sting out of an

account is one of the best ways to plan ahead. A couple of relatively painless ways of doing this are to put your change in a dish/container at the end of the day and deposit it into your ac-

emergency is to plan ahead or at the very least to have a plan.

Setting aside money in advance in a separate bank

count at the end of each month. Another option is to set up an automatic deduction from your regular paycheck. If you don’t see

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the money, you do not miss it. Both of these can build faster than you think.

Pet Insurance is offered by a number of companies: Pet’s Best Pet Health Insurance, Petplan Pet Insurance, Best Pet Insurance from Nationwide, Trupanion, ASPCA Pet Health Insurance and Embrace Pet Insurance. Check them out online for more detailed information as to how their plans work, what is covered and what is not, and how the premiums vary. You will want to pay

them and forward them along with any required documentation to the insurance company.

If you have not been able to plan ahead, you can take advantage of alternative financing options such as Synchrony Bank’s Care Credit or Citibank’s Health Card. With either of these you will typically have options for zero percent interest for a specified period of time or interest rates which may be lower than your current credit cards. Either way, an important caveat is to be sure that the total amount

Setting aside money in advance in a separate bank account is one of the best ways to plan ahead. close attention as to what they say about veterinary emergencies versus routine care. No matter what company you go with, the process will be the same.

You will have to pay the cost of the veterinary emergency services

up front and file a claim after the fact. Most veterinary emergency facilities are familiar with the claims forms and gladly complete

is paid prior to the end of the zero interest or special interest period. Otherwise, those finance charges revert to a much higher rate and they are retroactive to the time the expense was first incurred. Most veterinary emergency facilities will have applications on site or can guide you to their online application site.

If you have run out of options, you can always charge the expense to your existing credit card.

Remember, if your pet is critically ill or injured, there is typically an up front triage fee to stabilize your pet.

Remember, being prepared will help in any emergency situation.

meet

SPENCER bradley...

is a cairn terrier/schnauzer a 7 month old lhasa/ mix with a lot of personality, wheaten mix. Bradley is a he is a big lap dog and verysweetest sweet boy that loves the Terrier loves also approximately 2 yrs old sitting getting up on thepetted, couch and likes to inHe your and 38 ride lbs.tv.Remington watching is lap very in the car!!!

Hewell gets onwith great is an adorable boy, laid back, behaved, separation anxiety.

He with dogs andgets romps quietother playful, and on needs a home other and plays in the thewith yard, he is great with other dogs. dogs and someone that approx. years some old and Also, he1.5 still needs leash can spend quality time 15 and training. just one happy andlbshouse with him because he does little notguy! like being left alone.

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!

Houstonshaggydogrescue.org

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Compounding prescriptions For dogs, cats, horses, Reptiles & exotics.

Your pet is unique. His medication should be unique too, and not include any unnecessary ingredients. If commercially available medications aren’t meeting your pet’s needs, contact us to help guide you through the process of requesting an individualized medication that can be created (compounded) just for him.

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Health

What Love Can Do One Family's Cross-Country Journey to Save Their Dog By: Michaele M. Oberbroeckling, DVM VitalPet Kings Crossing Animal Hospital www.vitalpet.com

J

ennifer Korb first noticed that her dog, Vince, an 8 year old Goldendoodle, seemed lethargic. He went with her on daily runs in their Kingwood, Texas neighborhood, but otherwise

saw a veterinary internal medicine specialist.

Further testing did not find any problems with Vince's heart, and his thyroid was not felt to be an issue. The specialist was concerned about hyperadrenocorti-

The surgery is done with an exoscope and camera outside the mouth and the image is projected on the HD screen above the animal.

he preferred to lie down and rest. This concern prompted a visit to his veterinarian, where a slow heart rate was found only 40 beats per minute.

Blood work revealed that Vince's thyroid level was low, and his liver values were increased. Vince then

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cism, or Cushing's disease, which was confirmed through additional testing.

Cushing's disease is caused by a pituitary mass about 85% of the time, and an adrenal mass in the other 15% of cases. Clinical signs are mainly due to excess glucocorticoids

secreted by the adrenal glands, either in response to extra adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) produced by a pituitary mass or directly from an adrenal mass. Typical clinical signs include drinking more water and urinating more frequently, increased appetite, heavy panting, a pot-belly, hair loss, muscle weakness, and weight gain.

Vince didn’t have any of these clinical signs when he was diagnosed.

Jennifer and her husband, Brent, had to decide whether or not to treat Vince for Cushing's disease. Medications are available, but side effects are common. Bloodwork must be done frequently to find the correct dose of medication. At first, the Korbs opted not to treat Vince, but soon after his diagnosis he started losing hair and developed calcinosis cutis, in which calcium deposits accumulate in the skin.

Vince was treated by a veterinary dermatologist, who started trilostane to treat Cushing's disease, which was the underlying cause of this condition.

Vince did well for a while, then began to walk slowly on his runs instead of running the entire way. He refused to use the stairs. Jennifer thought this might be due to arthritis. His veterinarian wondered if his thyroid was a problem. A trial of thyroid and pain medicine gave Vince some relief, but not enough. Right before Christmas, Vince's

condition declined dramatically. He began walking in circles and would stop and stand in front of walls.

Alarmed, Jennifer brought Vince to a veterinary neurologist, who did an MRI and found a large pituitary mass, called a macroadenoma, which consumed about 30% of his brain.

Most pituitary masses that cause Cushing's disease are small, but nearly 20% are large enough to cause neurologic signs.

Radiation therapy was offered, but is not a cure.

Vince was started on prednisone, a corticosteroid, to reduce the swelling in his brain. Vince needed help to stand, walk, eat, urinate, and defecate, so the Korbs sadly made an appointment for euthanasia the day after Christmas.

Jennifer had read about a surgical option to remove pituitary macroadenomas, and Brent e-mailed a neurologist at Texas A & M’s College of Veterinary Medicine to see if surgery could be done there. The neurologist responded immediately offering to help Vince, but advising that they couldn’t do the surgery. The Korbs followed the leads he gave them, and found the one facility in the country that could help Vince. They reached out to Dr. Tina Owen, a surgeon at Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

She responded quickly on Christmas Eve with the wonderful news that her team could help Vince. But

would he live until his surgery? Would he be able to travel across the country?

Thankfully, he responded quickly to prednisone. The euthanasia appointment was cancelled and the Korbs made plans to get Vince to Washington.

The surgery to remove a pituitary mass is delicate and risky. The mortality rate is nearly 25%, but the reward is that 85 – 95% of dogs that survive will go into remission, meaning no more clinical signs of Cushing’s disease. About 25% of these dogs will come out of remission around a year post-surgery.

Dr. Owen spent 6 months training on cadaver dogs with a renowned human neurosurgeon before attempting surgery in pet dogs. Not only does this surgery help the affected dogs, but the tissue from the masses is used to learn more about Cushing’s disease in humans. To date, Dr. Owen has performed nearly 50 of these surgeries. A group of about 10 veterinarians, technicians

and support staff make up the pituitary team, including Dr. Annie Chen-Allen, a neurologist, and Dr. Linda Martin, a critical care specialist.

Typically, a family plans on spending 5 – 7 days in the area, while their dog has pre-surgical procedures, then surgery, finally recovering enough to continue care at home.

Surgery usually lasts about 4 hours. Vince, however, continued his pattern of not being a typical patient.

The first attempt to remove the pituitary tumor removed only about 40%.

The team had to go back and try again, which took incredible patience and persistence. Finally, the tumor came loose and Vince recovered remarkably well, after spending nearly 11 hours under anesthesia.

Unfortunately, he then almost succumbed to a life-threatening reaction to one of his medications. A feeding tube and aroundthe-clock critical care allowed Vince to recover enough to go home about

3 weeks after he arrived.

Today, Vince is enjoying running again with Jennifer. His heart rate has returned to normal and he is no longer lethargic. His hair is growing back, but he will have some scars.

He is monitored closely

with lab work and will soon visit Texas A & M’s College of Veterinary Medicine for another MRI and follow up.

I asked Jennifer if she and Brent had any regrets about their journey, and she said no, that everything they had been through with Vince was what needed to happen and they are grateful. Pet insurance would have been nice to have, however, she said.

You can learn more about the Pituitary Team at WSH CVM here and even make a donation to support research or to help provide financial support for families in need: https://vth. vetmed.wsu.edu/specialties/small-animal-surgery/ pituitary-surgery.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Tail End Principles of Dog Training By: Jeff Postle, Meadowlake Pet Resort & Training Center www.meadowlakepetresort.com

T

...

here are five main principles to always consider when training your dog. These principles are the core ingredients to behavior modification and are always at work. Understanding how these principles work is the secret to clear communication between you and your pet.

Timing is the amount of time needed between cause and effect for a dog to connect one with the other. Timing says that any behavior a dog acts out must have a consequence within 1.3 seconds in order for the dog to associate that behavior with that consequence. Positive behaviors must have a positive consequence within 1.3 seconds. Conversely, if a pet owner were to reprimand their pet it would need to occur within 1.3 seconds of an undesirable behavior. For example, if a pet

owner comes home from work and discovers their pet urinated on the rug while they were gone, it is now too late to address this

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behavior because it likely happened much longer than 1.3 seconds ago.

Consistency is needed to create habits. Consistency means promptly reacting the same way to a dog behavior in all situations at any given time.

For example, whether you are cooking, cleaning, entertaining guests, preparing the kids for school or watching the big

game, you must keep in mind that your dog is always learning from you. It’s during these situations that the

pet owner must work extra hard at being consistent.

When you miss opportunities to influence your dog’s behavior you will dramatically delay the habit forming training process.

Motivation is needed to influence your dog to make correct decisions.

Motivation requires action from the owner. If your dog acts out a positive behavior, you must quickly act in a positive, rewarding manner. It’s important that rewards are tangible and physical. Verbal rewards can create enthusiasm in the dog, as well as food and petting can go a long way in creating good habits. While dogs learn primarily from rewards, motivation

can also be used to set boundaries.

A professional dog trainer can teach you how to properly use motivation to set the correct boundaries

for your dog and family.

Situation Training is the process of defining triggers to create behavior expectation in a dog.

Triggers are sights, sounds, smells, etc. These triggers, when properly defined, will signal to the dog how he/she will be expected to behave. When we as humans enter a library, triggers immediately influence our behavior because we have been conditioned to whisper, walk and move softly. These triggers tell us to behave far differently than when we go out to our favorite sporting event, where we have been conditioned to clap and shout.

It is up to you to define these triggers to your dog.

Be prepared to clearly teach your dog how you want them to behave in many situations such as, when you are eating dinner as a family, going for a walk around the block, going to the vet office, playing with the kids and more.

The way your dog behaves is a product of how you interact with him/ her and a direct reflection upon how the above principles are integrated into your family. ❖ Timing links behavior with consequence; ❖ Consistency creates habits; ❖ Motivation influences decision making; ❖ Situation creates behavior expectation.

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Tail End Health

Chessi’s Story

From Rags to Riches, a True Cinderella Story By: Tammy J. Beene, Miniature Schnauzer Rescue of Houston www.msrh.org

I

volunteer with MSRH and work for a home builder. I responded to a report that a little dog in pitiful condition, was scrounging for food in homes under construction.

People from the community and Chesmar Homes were concerned and trying to help.

After several failed rescue attempts, I began to feel frantic. December is tough for a lone starving pup, even in Houston. From photos, I could see the dog's coat had been destroyed by mange and she had open bleeding sores. Time was running short!

On Sunday, December 14, 2014, I took matters into my own hands and summoned the help of my associate in the community. Together we searched until we found her. Fortunately her desperate flight was curtailed, as doors and windows were already in place in the home, allowing us to put up barriers.

I set out food and water to coax her inside the kennel to no avail. She ran in circles inside the house, with panic and desperation in her eyes. It was sad, but I was determined not to leave without her!

I sat in the middle of the

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living room talking to her for some time. She refused to come near making extreme measures necessary.

Cornering her in one room, we put the kennel in front of the door and waited for her to come to us. Finally she gave up and walked into the kennel. With the chase over, I was excited to determine she was either a full-blooded Miniature Schnauzer or a close mix.

I sent a photo to Marilyn Malaney, VP of Miniature Schnauzer rescue of Houston (MSRH). She confirmed MSRH would indeed rescue her. We took the tired, frightened dog home where she spent that night safe and warm, possibly the first in her life.

On the way home, my Mom and I named her Chessi, since she was rescued in a Chesmar Community and Chesmarians were instrumental in her rescue. It fit– she loved the name!

She became a mascot at Chesmar Homes, as associates and the public followed her story in newsletters and on Facebook.

Little Chessi was one sick girl. The list of ailments diagnosed by Dr. Dayton and his team at Parker Road Animal Hospital was

extensive. I visited often to reassure, walk, and get her socialized. Though cautious at first, eventually she wagged her tail, and even licked my hand. The way she looked at me melted my heart.

After the hospital, she stayed with Marilyn. It was clear that a special foster family was necessary to see she received treatment for all her ailments, plus her need for socialization skills.

Chessi got exactly what she needed. Her special foster home also turned out to be her forever home with Susie Hyatt and her family.

She even has siblings now.

Susie says this about Chessi: "In March, the Hyatt family became Chessi’s

new forever family! I asked Tammy if I could use Beene for Chessi’s middle name and there you have it– Chessi Beene Hyatt.

We look forward to seeing what Chessi has to teach us for the rest of her days. We absolutely love her!"

Chessi will forever be “my little angel”. I love Miniature Schnauzer Rescue of Houston for giving us the opportunity to save another precious, deserving life.

Rescuing takes money, time, a network of volunteers, and loads of love. But more importantly, rescue GIVES BACK in love.

And as I always say…long live rescue!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Photos by Rebecca Burwell-Botello

Tail End Health

Donny the Special Needs Guinea Kayla Talbert, A Local Guinea Pig's Hero By: Mara Soloway

K

ayla Talbert adopted her guinea pig Donny in 2014, making him the third of his kind that she's had in her life. Two weeks later, he became extremely sick – he wouldn't eat or drink and was paralyzed. Her veterinarian diagnosed Donny with an ear infection, scurvy, and an upper respiratory infection. He wasn't expected to survive.

Being a long-time fan of these gentle animals, Kayla would not give up, and worked hard to keep him alive and well.

How did you nurse him back to health?

In addition to the antibiotics I had to give him several times a day, I had to soften his food with water and put it in a syringe and feed and water him every three hours around the clock for almost three weeks. After that, he still couldn't walk because he had lost so much muscle, so I worked with him on walking again for another two weeks.

Because of his illnesses, he has a misshapen head and is blind in one eye.

Why do guinea pigs make good pets?

They're very lovable and sweet and are easy to take care of, and Donny has the best personality ever! He is very playful, he gives me kisses, and when I talk to him he will whistle back at me. He's just started a new thing where he will bite his cage very loudly in the middle of the night to get me to give him food or take him out of his cage.

What kinds of food does Donny like most?

Donny eats his guinea

pig food called Sunburst and timothy hay. He also loves all types of fruits and veggies! His favorites are apples, carrots, and all kinds of berries. Because he had scurvy at such a young age, I give him vitamin C drops.

Do you let Donny roam free around your house?

Donny has a cage that he sleeps in and stays in while I'm working, but if I'm home he is out with me. I don't like to leave him in his cage too long!

At Houston PetTalk, we appreciate the efforts that animal lovers put forth to save both pets and wildlife. We applaud Kayla’s persistence!

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

59

Celebrating Motherhood The Gift of Simple Snacking The Excalibur 6-Tray Stackable Dehydrator is a great gift for Mom... just be sure you make her some treats with it, too! Not only can you use the dehydrating for your favorite fruits, meats, and veggies, but you can create interesting and healthy treats for your pet using simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. $39.99, www.excaliburdehydrator. com.

Sweet Potato Chicken Pet Bites Makes 60-100 Cookies 1 lb. lean ground chicken ❖ 2 cups cubed sweet potato ❖ 1/2 cup water 1. On medium heat cook chicken until it starts to release liquid. Add sweet potato and water. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover and boil gently, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes or until potatoes are soft and chicken is no longer pink. Remove lid, increase heat to medium-high and boil until excess liquid is evaporated. Transfer to dish and let cool completely.

2. Puree chicken mixture in food processor until smooth.

3. Scoop out teaspoons of chicken mixture and roll into a ball. With moistened fingers, press into rounded rectangles about 1/4 inch apart on mesh drying trays. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

4. Dry at 155°F for 5 to 7 hours or until crisp and dry throughout. Let cool completely on trays or on wire racks.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or refrigerate for up to 3 months. ❖

Southern Gerenuk

Mother Josie with Baby January, Born 1-10-16, Houston Zoo

T

he miracle of life is happening at the Houston Zoo! These majestic Gerenuks are also known as the giraffe gazelle for their

long necks. Baby Gerenuks weigh on average just 6.6 pounds at birth. This antelope species lives about 13 years in captivity, but just 8 in the wild.

Our Favorite Ways to Celebrate Being a Dog Mom in Houston

❖

❖

❖

❖

Stay in bed! Sleep in for Mother's Day with your pet and enjoy the ultimate in calming cuddles.

Schedule a playful portrait session with Nature Dog Photography.

Make pet friendly baked goods for your pup and have a movie night at home. Homeward Bound is always a tear jerker!

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❖

❖

❖

Get your brunch on at Ouisie's Table on their pet-friendly patio.

Share a spa day: a massage for mom and blueberry facial for your pup at Meadowlake Pet Resort and Training Center, or Rover Oaks' Katy Location.

Go for an afternoon swim together at Rummy's Beach Club's climate controlled pool.

Visit the Johnny Steele Dog Park on Buffalo Bayou for some outdoor adventure in our newest central Houston dog park.

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.

Visit us online to see how you can be a part of something special.

Fosters Adopter& s needed!

Find our easy applications for Fostering, Adoptions and Volunteer positions or make a donation using our online options at:

www.msrh.org Miniature Schnauzer Rescue of Houston 281-336-1163

www.facebook.com/miniatureschnauzerrescuehouston

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 issuesto other pet parents.

To Donate Please Visit

www.HCVMF.org Houston PetTalk Magazine

61

B E ST D O G G I E B AG S I N TOW N !

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713.528.2264 | WWW.OUISIESTABLE.COM Houston PetTalk Magazine

63

Conservation Corner 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 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 efforts to protect local alligators. Look for other upcoming conservation stories so that you too can help save a species.

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I

n Texas the growing number of people living and recreating near water has led to a steady rise in the number of alligator sightings. The majority of these sightings often come from alligators sunning themselves on water’s edges, moving about in the water, or crossing the street to get

Submitted By: Gator Squad www.facebook.com/txgatorman

Photos provided by Christy Kroboth

Texas and The American Alligator

to another body of water.

Due to the growth of human population and new home construction across the state, we continue to push alligators out of rural areas and bring them right into our backyards.

Alligators are a fundamental part of Texas’s wetland, swamps, creeks, rivers, and

lakes and they are found all over the south part of the state. Alligators play a valuable role in the ecology of our state’s wetland and should not be removed unless they are directly threatening humans. Alligators are predators and help keep other aquatic life in balance. Alligators are not to be feared, but they are to be respected. Capable of reaching lengths over 13 feet and weighing over 600 pounds, with a crushing power of 3,000 psi in their jaws.

Despite their appearance, alligators are extremely quick and are capable of amazingly fast bursts of speed.

So, what should you do if you see an alligator? Gator Squad’s Christy Kroboth is here to answer that question. Over the years Christy Kroboth has become a voice for all alligators and has a passion for educating the

public on alligator safety and awareness. Alligators are amazing animals to have around, as they eat all the rats and poisonous snakes, says Christy. She is a partner in Gator Squad and has helped make Gator Squad Harris and Fort Bend Counties the number one Alligator Catch Team.

Christy and her Gator Squad partner Gator Chris believe that education is the key to safely co-existing with alligators and they strive to keep everyone safe as long as people and alligators follow the rules. Here are some of her safety tips for living near alligators.

1. DO NOT FEED THE ALLIGATORS! Once fed

alligators overcome their natural shyness and become attracted to humans. It is a Class C misdemeanor, and punishable by a fine to intentionally feed an alligator.

2. DO inform others that feeding alligators creates problems and contact Texas Parks and Wildlife to report anyone feeding alligators.

3. DON'T kill, harass, or molest any alligator. State law prohibits such actions and you risk the chance of being bitten or injured.

4. DO enjoy alligators and take photos of them from a safe distance of at least 30 feet away. Help by educating others.

5. DON'T swim in waters known to have alligators

or at night or during dusk and dawn, alligators most actively feed then.

6. DO use common care when being near water ways and closely supervise children when playing in or around water.

7. DO keep pets on leashes when near water.

Alligators move most actively in the spring and summer months to breed and find new habitat. Most alligators moving around are smaller ones that have been pushed out by larger ones. Alligators often bask along the banks of a pond or stream for extended periods of time. These alligators are usually warming their bodies and are not hunting.

Often a basking alligator may be seen with its mouth open; this is a way to cool its body temperature, since alligators do not sweat. Stay at least 30 feet away from any alligator, if you hear an alligator hiss, you are to close. You need to back away slowly.

Alligators are very smart and have been around for hundreds of years and if we all follow the co-existing rules we can ensure that alligators will be around for many more. Stay smart when being around alligators and if you encounter an alligator that is a nuisance or needs help you can contact Gator Squad or Texas Parks and Wildlife.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

65

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