October 2017

The Definitive Source for Houston Pet Lovers | October 2017

ALSO INSIDE:

HARVEY’S HEROES: RESCUE STORIES REVEALED

Working It: DOWNTOWN MARRIOTT’S “GRIFFIN” AND OTHER PET AMBASSADORS MAKE CUSTOMERS SMILE

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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OCTOBER 2017

Editorial

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f ever there were a fitting moniker for a city, Houston Strong has to be it! The way our citizens forgot all things that might divide us and pitched in to help one another, including the animals, was nothing short of spectacular. Our country has been in a corrosive state of division for some time and coming together when our fellow Houstonians are in need offers a glimmer of HOPE that we can be at peace with others even if we don’t agree on certain matters.

I know firsthand how consoling and heartwarming it is to have so many people step up to offer words of encouragement, cooked meals, clothing and sweat labor to help alleviate the pain.

My house was flooded by the release of the reservoir, leaving my bottom floor devastated - flooring, walls, cabinets, furniture, refrigerator, artwork, photos all heaped in a big pile in my front yard.

And I am was not alone in this destruction. I was unhappily joined by thousands, many of whom had experiences even worse than mine. But as the nightmare unfolded, people from our city and neighboring cities and neighboring states came to the rescue of our people

Issue 9: Volume 17 www.houstonpettalk.com

and our pets. What a beautiful thing!

Just a day after the storm, PetTalk started a GoFundMe campaign for the animals and donations came pouring in, many of which were from you, our readers. At time of print, I have been personally evaluating various needs and have donated about 30% of the fund so far.

At the beginning of the crisis, there was so much help from all over the country - rescue groups from other areas came to take pets to other cities, large box retailers donated food and supplies, citizens helped clear the shelters by adopting and the need was met with a resounding success! But as things go in life, people move on and the attention wanes from the storm and the money and resources begin to dry up. For that reason, I’ve kept a portion of the fund to step in to help as dire situations arise.

Just yesterday, the fund helped get a litter of dumped pups taken care of at the vet, (who graciously discounted services to cost) including exams, deworming, treatment for mange, vaccinations and heart worm preventative. And as I write this, two pups were already adopted today. I LOVE Houston’s spirit!!

I have so many people to thank that

Griffin "Working It" Boy does he ever! This adorable little Pug-mix rescue happily promotes the Downtown Marriott as the Brand Ambassador. Greeting guests, attending events and making everyone fall in love with him, Griffin is named after the symbol that represents the JW Marriott hotel chain. Taking his job seriously, he gives his best "I'm in charge" pose with Michelle Mantor, Evin Thayer and Magen Pastor. Read more about Griffin in our feature. Cover photo by Evin Thayer.

reached out to help me personally and with PetTalk. I can’t list them all, but I want to say a special thanks to Desiree Lonsway and Andrew Burwell for stepping in to help get the magazine ready for print. Plus a BIG thank you to one of the best photographers in Houston, Robyn Arouty who happily took on the task of photographing Harvey stories for this issue along with Mara Soloway who offered her excellent writing skills to capture these human and animal stories that are so touching. I know you will feel the rawness of their stories, the pain and the heroic endeavors that make Houston Strong.

Not to be overshadowed by the hell of Harvey, I have to give a mention to our adorable cover pooch, Griffin, the mascot for the Downtown Marriott.

Griffin was truly born to be photographed! I’ve never seen a dog that actually seems to know he’s modeling but Griffin definitely has the “model” gene.

Meet Griffin and other pet mascots in our feature story.

Plus, check out the many events in October - it's time for some fun!

HOUSTON PETTALK MAGAZINE 14781 Memorial Drive, Ste. 510, Houston, Texas 77079 281-556-6560 www.HoustonPetTalk.com Art Director: ANDREW BURWELL © Copyright 2017. 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 thinkstock or depositphotos unless otherwise stated.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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WHERE

in the

WORLD is PetTalk?

Catch someone reading their PetTalk as they travel the globe? Snap a pic and send to: info@houstonpettalk.com.

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Cancun, Mexico

Karen Ousley and her pal Sadie are enjoying Cancun. While waiting for the ferry to Isla Mujeres, they are reading their favorite magazine!

Paris, France Johannes Arnold enjoying Paris and PetTalk!

DON’T LET OSTEOARTHRITIS PAIN

KEEP YOUR DOG DOWN HAVE YOU NOTICED ANY OF THE FOLLOWING IN YOUR DOG? Easily gets tired or lags behind on walks

Has trouble getting up from a resting position

Is reluctant to run, play or climb stairs

Has gained weight in the past year

Limps or appears stiff after exercise

Inflammation in the joints causes pain and cartilage damage which can lead to stiffness and decreased mobility.

Ask your veterinarian to evaluate your dog’s joints today.

Shop at our online store!

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Cypress VCA TELGE ROAD ANIMAL HOSPITAL 11430 Telge Road Cypress, TX 77429 281-955-9797 VCAtelgeroad.com store.VCAtelgeroad.com Houston VCA ASHFORD ANIMAL HOSPITAL 12633 Whittington Houston, TX 77077 281-497-3917 VCAashford.com store.VCAashford.com Houston VCA COUNTRYSIDE ANIMAL HOSPITAL 2211 FM 1960 East Houston, TX 77073 281-443-7297 VCAcountryside.com store.VCAcountryside.com

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Houston VCA SPRING BRANCH ANIMAL HOSPITAL 10109 Long Point Road Houston, TX 77043 713-461-1121 VCAspringbranch.com store.VCAspringbranch.com

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Katy VCA KELLIWOOD ANIMAL HOSPITAL 960 S. Fry Road Katy, TX 77450 281-492-2780 VCAkelliwood.com store.VCAkelliwood.com Kingwood VCA KINGWOOD ANIMAL HOSPITAL 2526 Green Oak Drive Kingwood, TX 77339 281-358-3146 VCAkingwood.com store.VCAkingwood.com

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Lake Jackson VCA LAKE JACKSON ANIMAL HOSPITAL 210 That Way Lake Jackson, TX 77566 979-297-3044 VCAlakejackson.com store.VCAlakejackson.com Pasadena VCA ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER OF PASADENA 5018A Fairmont Parkway Pasadena, TX 77505 281-487-8233 VCApasadena.com store.VCApasadena.com

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Spring VCA SPRING ANIMAL HOSPITAL 1811 Spring Cypress Spring, TX 77388 281-353-5167 VCAspring.com store.VCAspring.com

©2016 VCA Inc. VCA logo is registered trademarks of VCA Inc. or its affiliated entities.

Management Services Provided by VCA Animal Hospitals • Animal Healthcare of Texas, P.C. Rocky McKelvey, DVM - owner

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Spring/The Woodlands VCA WOODLANDS ANIMAL HOSPITAL 428 Rayford Road Spring, TX 77386 281-367-7553 VCAwoodlands.com store.VCAwoodlands.com

Texas City VCA MAINLAND ANIMAL HOSPITAL 3015 Palmer Highway Texas City, TX 77590 409-948-8401 VCAmainland.com Shop store.VCAmainland.com

Tomball Sugar Land VCA TOMBALL VCA SOUTHWEST FREEWAY VETERINARY HOSPITAL ANIMAL HOSPITAL 28800 Tomball Pkwy 15575 SW Freeway Tomball, TX 77375 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-351-5441 281-491-8387 VCAtomball.com VCAswfreeway.com Shop store.VCAswfreeway.com Shop store.VCAtomball.com

AT VCA ANIMAL HOSPITALS, WE CARE

We’d watered the hydrants and chased the squirrels, Had our typical game of fetch featuring boys vs. girls;

I went house to house rescuing two and four-leggers together, Determined to save them all from this horrendous weather;

She was clutching one Gucci shoe with eyes of fire, Staring down at me Oh yes, this was dire!

When out came our parents who said in a hurry, “Hurricane Harvey is coming, run with a flurry!”

With skill and bravery I made one rescue after another, Until it was time to save Dragon Lady A.K.A…my mother;

“Henrietta!”, she seethed clenching her teeth with displeasure, “if you did this on purpose you are grounded FOREVER!”

We scampered inside and battened down the hatches, While mom made dog biscuits by the batches and batches;

It happened in an instant and my life flashed before my eyes, I stepped on DL’s dress and the boat promptly capsized;

“Mom, of course I would never do that I swear”, As I held back my laughter when I looked at her hair;

For two days we were stranded as the rain poured down, Wreaking untold havoc on our beloved H-Town;

Up she sputtered from the dirty brown water, Instantly I wished I was not her daughter;

She was dripping wet and covered in mud, Unseemly for her self-proclaimed lineage as a Blue Blood;

I watched out the window as my street became a river, And dreamed of my favorite Zuke’s treats…chicken liver!

Harvey had definitely brought misfortune and disaster, But one shining light was the state of my Master;

But I realized as much as I enjoyed dreaming about food, Thinking of myself was just plain rude;

Serves her right for fleeing a storm in fancy designer wear, But I did feel a little sorry So I said this prayer;

My compadres were in danger as houses filled with water, Oh, how I wish I could be a superhero...a Sea Otter!

“Dear Lord, please give me patience for this woman with the brain of a gnat, And I promise to stop my goal of trying to annihilate the species CAT”.

But alas my well rounded body had no ability to float, So the next best thing was to hail a boat;

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Henrietta Illustration by Jim Tweedy, Colorizing by Desiree Lonsway

Henrietta On: Saving Her Brethren

NOW YOU CAN SAY GOODBYE TO YOUR BELOVED PET IN THE COMFORT OF HOME...

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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9th Annual Spooktacular

Saturday, October 21 | Oak Meadow Park As seen on ot America’s G Talent

11,400-acre master planned community Homes from the $240s to over $1 million 281-304-5588 or toll free 1-866-232-0270 www.bridgeland.com/howl-o-ween-fest

ER THE SUP !

L L CO IES #Howlfest17

Dogs must be leashed and under control at all times, current on all vaccinations and wearing a current rabies tag. Aggressive dogs are not permitted on the premises.

Dogs must be removed at first sign of aggression. By bringing a dog to this event, you are taking responsibility for any damage or injury caused by that dog to any person or other animal.

In addition, if you or your dog is injured or suffer damage from a dog at this event, you agree that Bridgeland Development, LP is not responsible for the damage or injury.

Come Board with Us! 24/7 Staff on Site…..24/7 Onsite Cameras

5 OFF LEASH walks a day * last walk 9pm – 10pm No additional charge for Meds, Hugs or Kisses

3663 S Dairy Ashford (between Westpark & WestparkTollway) www.roversromphouse.com 832-328-5844

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PLAYCARE rates Half Price with Boarding

Weekends and Holiday Pick-Ups

(we do not hold pets hostage as we know how badly they are missed)

PLAYCARE, BOARDING & GROOMING www.houstonpettalk.com

Unleashed CAP GALA KICK-OFF PARTY

The iconic store Tootsies graciously hosted the kickoff party for Citizen's for Animal Protection's annual Celebrity Paws Gala coming up in November. The Top Ten Honorees were introduced, all of whom will compete via fundraising efforts to be the Top Dog at the gala. West Houston Subaru displayed the car that will be raffled at the big party and attendees were encouraged to bring supply donations for the shelter as part of the post-Harvey recovery.

Photos by Kim Coffman.

John Fitzgerald & Robert Chapa of W. Houston Subaru

Photos by: Kim Coffman

Jon Halbur of J & D entertainment with Lindsey Love and Fady Armanious of Tootsies

Sharilyn Durdin & Gayle Lampson with "Capt. Jack Sparrow" & Jean Durdin with "Tatiana"

Peter McGillivray & "Lucie"

Brian Teichman & Andrew Cordes Cam Canion & "Mollie"

Julie Brookshire with "Lila" & "Lola"

Shelby Kibodeaux with Hershey Grace

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HENRIE TTA’ S F R IGH T F UL LY F UN

halloween costume photo contest Sponsored by Sunset Blvd. Animal Clinic Enter October 15-31 Vote November 1-7

Calling all devilish dogs, hair raising hounds, creepy cats, bone chilling canines, masquerading mutts... we want to see them all!

In exchange for sharing your best Halloween costume photo with us, Sunset Blvd. Animal Clinic is giving away $300 in services to one lucky winner!

S

unset Boulevard Animal Clinic is a full service 24/7 veterinary hospital located in the West University Place/River Oaks area of Houston. Their professional and courteous health care team

aspires to excellence in medical quality and client service. Sunset utilizes cutting edge and state of the art knowledge, equipment, and techniques that are available to care for your pets and exceed your expectations.

Enter Online at www.houstonpettalk.com or facebook.com/houstonpettalk This contest will run from October 15, 2017 to October 31, 2017. Public voting to determine finalists will be November 1, 2017 through midnight November 7, 2017. Public voting will decide finalists, then a panel of judges will determine the winner. The winning photo will be published in the December issue of Houston PetTalk Magazine. Photo submissions should be high resolution (1 MB or larger). No stock photos please.

The Dish pet related event to our event calendar online?

Head to: pettalkgofetch.com/event

FOR A FULL LIST OF EVENTS, DOWNLOAD THE FREE APP OR VISIT: WWW.PETTALKGOFETCH.COM be The Super Collies, Sara and Hero, who are finalists on America’s Got Talent!

Other stage acts will perform throughout the day along with a host of other activities. Enjoy cuisine from more than 20 food trucks, pumpkin decorating, pet adoptions and more! The annual pooch fashion show is always a hit and all proceeds will go to dog rescue groups. See ad on page 22 for details.

10.21.2017 Carter’s Pet Depot Halloween Yappy Hour Carter’s Pet Depot 9333 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77024 11am to 4pm Celebrate Halloween with Yappy Hour at Carter's Pet Depot. See details on page 4.

Bridgeland Howl-O-Ween Fest

Events 10.1.2017

participating local animal welfare group when you register. Strut Your Mutt is a fun-filled festival! Register at www.strutyourmutt.org.

St. Andrews Church Pet Blessing

10.21.2017

6:00pm St. Andrews Episcopal Church 1819 Heights Blvd, 77008 Bring your beloved pet for a Blessing of the Animals at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church from 4pm to 6pm. In addition to the Blessing, enjoy St. Arnold's Beer, Hot Dogs, vendors and live music!

CAP Howl-O-Ween Dog Walk, Costume Contest, & Pet Expo

10.14.2017 Strut Your Mutt 5K | Best Friends Animal Society 9:00am Stude Park 1031 Stude Street, 77007 Best Friends Animal Society’s Strut Your Mutt raises money toward saving the lives of homeless pets. Choose your favorite

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Central Green Park 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Katy, TX 77494 The annual CAP Halloween Walk, sponsored by Rover Oaks is back! Join the fun at Willow Fork Central Green Park at LaCenterra for the dog walk, costume contest and more. Registration 8am and check-in 9am. Tickets are $25 for preregistration, or $35 day-of registration.

Find details at www.cap4pets.org.

10.21.2017 9th Annual Howl-O-Ween Fest Bridgeland’s Oak Meadow Park 10an to 4pm Headlining this year’s pup-ular event will

10.21.2017 MuttOberFest 2017 Molly’s Mutt House 3410 N Shepherd Dr. 12PM-2PM It’s time to party at Molly’s Mutt House’s annual Halloween bash. Enjoy freebies, costume contest and more!

10.28.2017 Hall-O-Ween Adoption Event October 28, 1-6 PM Citizens for Animal Protection 17555 Katy Freeway Houston, Texas 77094 Join CAP as they partner with West Houston Subaru for a fee-waived adoptions. With so many precious animals looking for a home post Hurricane Harvey, come find the right furbaby for you! And, there is not cost to adopt a fully vetted pet, all thanks to the generosity of West Houston Subaru.

Photo provided by Bridgeland

H

ey Party Animals...Did you know you can add your own

NATURAL FOOD, TREATS, SUPPLIES & GROOMING

HEIGHTS

250 W. 20th St. Houston, TX 77008 713.239.0058

VINTAGE

15556 Cutten Rd. Houston, TX 77070 832.698.1458

WEST UNIVERSITY

5160 Buffalo Speedway Houston, TX 77005 832.831.1944

THE WOODLANDS

1925 Hughes Landing Blvd.

The Woodlands, TX 77380 281.419.5992

RIVER OAKS

1515 West Gray St. Houston, TX 77019 346.701.0295

KRISERS.COM @KRISERSPETS

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News

PetSmart's Buy a Bag Give a Meal Program

H

ouston Food Bank received the largest pet food donation in its 35 year history – starting with a 53 ft. semi-truck loaded with 190,000 pet food meals – thanks to PetSmart’s Buy a Bag, Give a Meal program. Pet food is a rare offering at

food banks, causing those who struggle financially to sometimes give up their own food to feed their pets. This is the largest pet food donation the food bank has ever received, and will help many families care for their beloved pets.

Henrietta's Frightfully Fun Costume Photo Contest

H

ave a little fun with your goblin this year by entering Henrietta’s Frightfully Fun Costume Photo Contest, sponsored

by Sunset Blvd. Animal Clinic. Get creative and dress your pumpkin in something spooky, funny, adorable or ghoulish for a chance to win a $300 certificate for services to Sunset Blvd.

Animal Clinic, located in the Kirby District. Enter your pet’s photo (no humans please) and the public will vote on finalists, with winner selected by a panel of judges from our sponsor. Find

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all the spooky details on page 21!

2016 Winner, “Sydney”

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DOGGIE DAYCARE | OVERNIGHT SLEEPOVER | SPA TREATMENT

Many FUN Facilities: SPORTS CENTER BALLROOM TREAT LOUNGE DAY SPA FTS MOVIE THEATER UPPER LO PARK OUTDOORS

Where Dogs Can Be Dogs

Come Join Our Family!

WWW.DOGSRDOGSDAYCARE.COM

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TWO PAW-SOME LOCATIONS: CALL TODAY!

3113 S. SHEPHERD DR. 77098

281.815.2871

711 W. GRAY ST. 77019

713.524.2820

Working It: PET AMBASSADORS MAKE CUSTOMERS SMILE Photos by Evin Thayer

P

et ambassadors abound these days.

Why? Because their spirit is so welcoming and their presence is so calming.

Having the company “mascot” - be it a dog, cat, bird, etc. - diffuses stress and basically makes most everyone feel more relaxed. If you are an “animal person”, and you walk into a retail store where a sweet dog comes wagging to greet you, it feels good to reach down and pet them and say, “hey, thanks for the greeting!” And, a business that has an animal integrated into their daily workplace sends a message that this company loves animals and is likely a relaxed, fun and well-intentioned company…one that you would most likely want to do business with.

From easing the stress of employees, to making clients or guests feel welcome, pets can bridge the gap for us humans so that we can connect easier and faster. These pet mascots might have a myriad of responsibilities from informal to more established, but either way, they are a pleasant addition to the world of commerce. Enjoy meeting a few of Houston’s pet ambassadors!

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Griffin JW MARRIOTT HOUSTON DOWNTOWN Magen Pastor, Marketing Manager

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riffin is an adorable half pug mix breed born on November 11th, 11:11 which some say is a magical number. His position came about two years ago when the JW Marriott Houston Downtown was hosting a Fashion Show Fundraiser. Three boutiques showcased their fashions on local influencers along side 7 dogs up for adoption through S.A.V.E Rescue Coalition. The cute, short-haired, black pup prancing down the runway caught my eye and a light bulb went off. The hotel was already a pet friendly property so why not take it the extra step and have a dog representing that during the work week? Why not be the first hotel in Houston and in the JW brand to have a Pet Director? And so...his title and job was born!

Griffin has always been a very low-key, well mannered, prancing companion. He barely ever barks unless he is protecting his home, or interested in going outside. When he puts on his custom collar

by Taft McWhorter, he “turns on” his greeter personality. By the time he gets back upstairs away from the lobby and guests, he lets loose and runs around like he just did a great job and he’s so proud of himself.

Fast forward to present day and you would have never expected his story to be so interesting. Griffin’s “duties” start at an arrival time of 8:30am as he anxiously wags his tail. He socializes with all of the managers in the executive offices, and throughout the day he gets called to the front desk to meet any eager children arriving in the hotel or a guest that has heard about him. Some of the sales managers will take him on tour meetings with them, as we find that many people love animals

Griffin with mom Magen Pastor of Houston Downtown Marriott Houston PetTalk Magazine

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and enjoy hearing about Griffin's story.

When he goes on walks around downtown, it’s funny to hear people call out his name, especially when you don’t know the

person. They recognize him from seeing him around town or through media.

The JW Marriott Houston Downtown prides itself on its support for local initiatives

Griffin’s “duties” start at an arrival time of 8:30am as he anxiously wags his tail; he socializes with all of the managers in the executive offices and throughout the day he gets called to the front desk to meet any eager children arriving in the hotel, or a guest that has heard about him.

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and creative marketing. Take for example the half a million-dollar art collection by local artists curated by Esperson Gallery. Two murals on the exterior of the Hotel by wellknown local muralists, one depicting the cutest little Pet Director, Griffin, by Michael C. Rodriguez, and another iconic graffiti mural by Gonzo 247. Add to that a still talked about grand opening produced by celebrity event planner, Colin Cowie or our 2nd anniversary party where J&D Entertainment painted models into the artwork that popped out and danced around guests.

Creating this position with Griffin has been rewarding and exciting to see the successful results. He's become a media darling appearing in the Houston Chronicle, Houstonia, JWM Magazine and was even in an ESPN Tracy McGrady press video.

He has met and been photographed with the previous and standing Mayors, who have commented that they are impressed

by Houston's large number of pet friendly hotels. JWM is happy to be a leader in this segment - we are not only pet friendly, we are pet welcoming!

MORE HOUSTON PET AMBASSADORS

Daisy

D

DEER LAKE LODGE

aisy, a Jack Russell who enjoys living at Deer Lake Lodge and happily accepts her position as mascot, has been prancing around the property for over two years. Her position came about when she spent a weekend at the lodge while her owner (also owner of the lodge) went out of town for the weekend. Daisy had so much fun she decided to stay!

When Daisy isn’t lounging around in the 50-acre oasis, she’s greeting guests.

Knowing that guests enjoy pampering, Daisy of course developed her own line of products so the pampering can continue when guests head home. Her line is aptly named Daisy Dog Dayze and the product line is for dogs. The products include: ❖ Daisy Dog Dayze Furfume - $12 Suggested use for repealing fleas and

ticks, calming and soothing.

Daisy Dog Dayze Body Bar (includes daisy flower seeds) - $7 If you've not heard of Deer Lake Lodge, you need to check it out and meet Daisy too! Deer Lake Lodge and Spa is an exclusive health resort that promotes enhanced living through holistic cleansing and other therapeutic practices in a relaxing, secluded environment. Just a short drive away from Houston in Montgomery, you can escape the city and experience some much needed stress reduction. Daisy promises you'll love it! www.deerlakelodge.com ❖

Jack CHIEF BARKETING OFFICER - AIRCON

J

ack, whose full name is "Jack Mississippi Mapp," is a Pit Bull Terrier mix who dedicates his time as the official CBO of AirCon. Jack enjoys long walks on the beach (or elsewhere) and chasing random things around the backyard. According to AirCon, Jack also likes barking at strangers, leaves, shadows, mysterious noises and himself sometimes. He really loves working at AirCon as the mascot because it allows him to explore his creative side, not to mention the fact that all the techs, installers and office personnel love to

feed him snacks. Jack says, "keep it cool...and if you can't keep it cool, call Aircon!" www.airconhouston.com

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HARVEY'S HER ES: STORIES OF COURAGE, SELFLESSNESS AND LOVE Stories by MARA SOLOWAY Photography by ROBYN AROUTY / robynarouty.com

H

arvey was hell. The destruction, fear, displacement, stress and financial misfortune came roaring in with a deluge of water that overwhelmed our beloved H-Town. The storm took our drainage systems to the brink and beyond, leaving mother nature’s power to destroy property, separate families and even kill both people and animals. As the waters rose, so did the call to action. With all its unstoppable force, the flood waters turned neighborhoods into rivers, houses into rubble, citizens into victims. The news kept breaking, the weather warnings kept coming, the military helicopters descended…we found ourselves at war with nature’s wrath.

From this dark scene of palpable despair rose the most beautiful, unforeseen defender…solidarity. Emerging from inside communities to the outskirts of Houston and onward across our great nation, people helped one another with no mind to race, political views or economic status. The lines of division melted like vapor in the hot Texas sun as people with boats, supplies, food, medicine and a will to be of service sprung to action to help those that were in danger from the rising waters.

And thankfully, people not only helped people, they helped the least among us, the animals. From dogs and cats to horses and livestock, the rescuing spirit of our city and fellow Americans bounded forward with action. Pets were rescued from homes by boat, convoys of horse trailers descended on properties where the horses were stranded in flood waters, rescue groups gathered volunteers to tend to pets in shelters and elaborate transportation logistics came to bear, moving abandoned animals to northern cities for adoption.

In celebration of the human spirit that rose to the occasion, not with glory but with humility, we want to share some of the heroic stories that emerged from this natural disaster. Although we could only choose a few, there are many tales of heroism throughout our city and we are thankful for each helping hand that reached for another, each smile that comforted someone in pain and for each dollar donated to support those in need.

A special thank you to Robyn Arouty for her willingness to take on this project and tell these heartwarming stories through pictures, and to Mara Soloway for finding the words to bring these acts of heroism to the pages of PetTalk. I’m grateful and proud of you both!

SADNESS, ANGER, RELIEF, JOY

T

he emotional highs and lows of being involved in animal rescue were strongly felt during Hurricane Harvey for members of Houston K911 Rescue.

Group members rescued two littermates on Saturday night in the Fifth Ward. The female puppy had a broken jaw. “We wanted to get that dog in to a vet as soon as possible. No dog should be out there fending for itself much less one who is hurting and at risk of drowning,” said director Anna Barbosa.

They drove her to the veterinary clinic at Texas A&M to see a specialist, but the news was not good: her injuries were old and the break hadn’t healed properly rendering it unfixable; eating would always be problematic for her. “We had to make the heartbreaking decision to let her go,” Barbosa said. Fortunately, her littermate is in a foster home, well fed and well loved.

After the flood, group members were looking for stray dogs in the

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Patterson/Simonton area. They found two donkeys tied to a pole, swimming in water up to their noses. Katie Wing was able to untie them and walk them to higher ground. They found Jemma tied to a porch but only two of her puppies; the others likely drown.

Houston K911 members gathered about 20 dogs from Houston’s south side, including a German Shepherd who had to have surgery on her tail that had been bitten off by a horse; she also had mastitis so badly her puppies couldn’t feed. Thankfully the owner surrendered her.

Animal welfare during a flood is now high on people’s radar. If evacuation without your dogs is unavoidable, people are advised to at least untie or unchain them so they can try to save themselves.

Houston K911 saved hundreds of dogs that now have adoptive homes. Post-Harvey, the rescue group will be focusing on a spay and neuter program that many area residents have asked for.

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ore than 1,000 dogs and cats found a better life through the work of Rescued Pets Movement (RPM) during and after Hurricane Harvey, including 500 in one week.

After delivering three truckloads of crates and other supplies to the GRB despite the rising waters, the group began coordinating with BARC and numerous rescue organizations, including sending animals back with national groups for adoption. RPM director Laura Carlock joined about 30

COORDINATING EFFORTS AND SAVING LIVES

people at BARC to strategize the best way to take care of all animals in this phenomenal effort.

“We had to be sure that the mandated stray hold process was enforced for the animals that were already in the pounds and shelters and for the animals that were coming in – they could be owned by someone,” Carlock said. The first focus was getting all the animals in the shelter pre-Harvey rescued.

Once BARC reopened, RPM began working with national rescues

facilitating load-ups from BARC onto vans. It helped the first group to come, Paws Chicago, load up 38 animals. RPM also helped several other organizations such as Charlottesville SPCA from Charlottesville, Virginia, St. Francis CARE from Murphysboro, Illinois, and Louie’s Legacy, which took three full vans of pets to Cincinnati.

Weeks after Harvey, RPM is continuing to coordinate efforts by national rescues to take animals from BARC for adoption.

RPM is also working with Houston Pets

Alive and its efforts at NRG to find rescue groups to take pets. “RPM was in a good position to help with transporting, so we were able to get so many animals placed with those amazing organizations. We had about 350 animals that we sent in 12 cargo vans to Colorado to 21 different organizations we had worked with previously. It was our biggest transport yet,” Carlock said.

“We won’t turn anybody away, even if they can only take a small number of animals,” Carlock said.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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THE CAPTAIN GOES DOWN WITH THE SHIP

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hen the water in her yard rose several feet, Lisa First didn’t concern herself with the belongings in her Alvin home: she and her husband Jesse Cadena have 14 dogs in their care, including several with special needs.

The dogs had to get out of the 8 inches of water that filled their home. She gathered all her tables and arranged blankets and crates on them. She had to lift several on to the tables, including the frail 18-year-old, Hot Dog.

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Friends had encouraged them to leave, even offering to send a cattle trailer, but with so many dogs it was unrealistic. Plus, they were prepared with a generator and plenty of supplies.

“There’s no way we were going to leave if it meant leaving our dogs. It would never occur to us to do anything but rescue our dogs,” she said.

It’s the caregiver in her. As an RN, she knows how to handle medical emergencies. As a foster with Joyrides Rescue, she’s helped many dogs. Of the 14 she

has, 12 are hers and two are fosters with Joyrides. “Several of them have some issues, so they’re a part of our family now,” First said. Three of her dogs have previously endured such trauma that they don’t want to go outside.

First also volunteers with Barrio Dogs to educate elementary students about dogs, including proper care. Her dogs Pinto and Levi are program ambassadors. “At first they think a Pit Bull is horrible. Once they meet Levi with only one eye, their whole thinking changes,”

THE NEW MODEL FOR PET CARE IN A NATURAL DISASTER

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she said.

Some good news has come from all this distress: two of her dogs got adopted through Joyrides. Her niece in Massachusetts collected donations, which Joyrides is distributing to Houston area rural shelters and bringing dogs to New England for adoption.

“Although I lost most of my possessions, I’m one of the lucky ones because I’m not out looking for my dogs,” First said.

uring Hurricane Harvey and its aftermath, a different type of first responder took charge to save lives – the lives of family pets. Because animals were allowed in the shelters at the GRB and NRG, area and national veterinarians volunteered their life-saving skills.

Dr. Katie Eick, DVM, owner of South by South Vets, and her staff were heavily involved with coordinating the volunteer effort from the beginning until the close of both shelters.

She made her way to the GRB on Monday with all the inventory from her mobile clinic and set up a vet table and started treating dogs. “We got more supplies as other veterinarians were able to drive in. The drug companies generously gave us every medication we could need,” Eick said.

A video interview with Eick at the GRB on a vet blog prompted offers to help from vets nationwide.

To help organize the volunteer effort, she worked with Mike

Rosenbaum at Trans4mative to set up www.harveyvolunteervets. com so other vets could learn how to best help.

The total animal count at GRB is estimated at 900-1000, with about 400 at NRG. Luckily, vets mostly provided routine care.

Eick feels that the effort ran smoothly considering this scale of effort has never been done before, and she said that has to do with Friends for Life and BARC. “Salise Shuttlesworth, the director of Friends for Life, was there from the very beginning at GRB getting that shelter set up. Her efforts were amazing and helped to set the stage for this new model that can be reproduced in any disaster,” Eick said.

Eick feels people would not have come to the shelter if they weren’t allowed to bring their animals. “Otherwise, we might have had more terrible stories. For many of the people we met, their animals are their family,” she said.

“And they were not going to leave them.”

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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FAIR AND BALANCED RESCUE EFFORTS

SQUIRRELS AND OWLS AND PELICANS, OH MY

T

he Houston

SPCA’s Wildlife Center of Texas (WCT) felt the effects of

Hurricane Harvey’s winds on Friday before landfall. Area residents brought in almost 50 animals then. More than 500 sodden animals eventually would be in rehab at the WTC. One family watched as a momma opossum carrying her babies struggled to swim. Three babies come off as the current pushed the momma onward. Family members went out in the storm, got the babies and brought them to the center.

Other rehab patients were baby squirrels, pelicans, a magnificent frigate bird, screech owls, a baby beaver, a fawn, and an alligator snapping turtle that weighed about 90 pounds and was estimated to be 70-100 years old.

Approximately six staff and hundreds of volunteers took care of animals and responded to more than 1,300 calls. One caller, Bryce Zornes, found a submerged baby rabbit in Buffalo Bayou on Sunday morning.

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Although those around her told her not to touch it, she didn’t listen and began pulling off the fire ants that completely covered the bunny.

She took him home and wrapped him in towels that she heated in the dryer. Zornes doesn’t actually know if the animal was a male. “I just wanted to name it Harvey the Rabbit.”

For almost five days, she kept Harvey warm and fed him grass, spinach and walnuts. He even drank water from a straw. When she set him free at Memorial Park, he sprinted off without looking back.

Sharon Schmalz, WCT’s executive director, appreciates that people in Houston area care enough for wildlife to bring on average 10,000 animals a year to the WCT. “The spirit of people is amazing. They took time to care for a living animal during a storm.

People whose houses were flooded were thanking us for having a place to bring animals,” Schmalz said. “We were thanking them for making the effort considering the situation they are in.”

A

lthough Maurice Gassiott, 25, is partial to Pit Bulls, when the opportunity to rescue people and animals arose with Harvey’s floodwaters, he was totally on board, literally and figuratively. He headed out on Saturday after hearing about a Pit Bull on top of a car in rising water. The owner of Gray Wolf Canine Rehabilitation knew he could help the dog. He works with Pit Bull rescues and animal shelters using his pack of balanced dogs, mostly Pit Bulls, to help

aggressive dogs learn how to behave.

When Gassiott got to the flooding neighborhood, someone offered to paddle him to the dog, but the strong current turned the canoe around. With that effort on hold, he turned his attention to nearby people in their homes.

Like many spontaneous rescue events, three men from Lufkin, Texas pulled up with a boat. They all agreed to help people first, then the dog. “We carried a gentlemen and his mother to dry land. Then we helped a family and two

rabbits,” Gassiott said.

When they had a chance to look for the dog, the address was wrong.

Attempts at getting a correct address through Facebook didn’t pan out.

(The dog was eventually rescued.) An American Bulldog named Chuck had some good luck, getting rescued by some people in a boat that Gassiott had met earlier. He put out the call on Facebook for a temporary foster home, and a good friend volunteered.

For several days, he worked with

a team that picked up stray dogs in the Missouri City area and took them to Austin Pets Alive stationed at Katy Mills Mall. Of course Gassiott ended up taking the only Pit Bull; he also took a bonded pair that he calls JAY-Z and Beyoncé.

Gassiott admits he likes dangerous situations. He works with aggressive dogs for a living, skating each morning with his dogs pulling him upwards of 30 miles an hour. “If someone tells me it can’t be done, I’m like, ‘yeah it can.’ ” Houston PetTalk Magazine

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HARRIS COUNTY IS ANIMAL FRIENDLY

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arris County Judge Ed Emmett has had all kinds of pets over the years; he's even gotten up close to a porcupine and rescued a small alligator on his East Texas property by scaring away larger ones with a broom; the alligator named Ollie by a granddaugher swims up to see Emmett when he visits the cabin.

Emmett wasn’t county judge when Hurricane Katrina hit in August 2005, but he has carried forward the lessons he learned. “All of us saw what was

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happening to people, and it wasn’t just in the shelters. I remember seeing elderly people being loaded on the buses to come over here. They were being told they couldn't bring their pets so they wouldn’t get on the bus. They stayed behind,” he said.

Harris County opened the emergency shelter at NRG Center accepting pets in cages from the beginning. “As long as I’ve been County Judge, it’s always been a given that pets are included. Whenever we give our annual hurricane update, we say

to make sure your pets are taken care of, too. If you’re going to evacuate, you've got to have the crates and all the things necessary to make sure your pet can survive.”

Emmett greatly appreciates the mindset that local nonprofit BakerRipley brought to its operation of the emergency shelter.

“Angela Blanchard, CEO, told me that they don't treat people like evacuees – they treat them like guests. That mindset is totally different. People arrive who have been in floodwaters, and somebody takes their bags and welcomes them. It’s totally

MODESTY IS HIS BEST POLICY

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different than standing in a line to be processed,” he said.

Separate from the evacuee shelter at NRG is Best Friends Rescue's operation of the Pet Reunion Pavillion, which in midSeptember had about 390 dogs and 117 cats on a 30-day wait hold for their owners to find them. Michael White, DVM, Director of Veterinary Public Health for Harris County, said that after that time period, both the county and Best Friends are committed to finding adoptive homes for them around the state and the nation.

terling Bailey

is like many generous people: he is modest about it. Ask him about the efforts of his Bailey Animal Rescue during and after Hurricane Harvey, and he will shift the conversation to groups he worked with: Sonoma’s Haven, West Houston Animal Rescue and Houston K911 Rescue (see separate story).

When the Brazos River was rising near her Simonton property for the second time this year, Leticia Hess of Sonoma’s Haven had to find homes for 10 dogs. Bailey took four and foster homes were found for the rest by K911 and Stephanie Polk of West Houston Animal Rescue. Hess then saved three pit bulls from flooding and, with transit from a California swift water rescue team that took several hours, she rescued four dogs and fed many cats and chickens.

Claire Hogenson found fosters for four of these dogs. Bailey provided food, Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR), and vet care through the accounts he has at veterinary and emergency clinics.

Gina Harris, a vet tech at Nottingham Animal Clinic, helped rescue a pit bull with her two malnourished puppies that were all bleeding from sarcoptic mange.

She rescued other dogs and five cats, including one kitten who received care under Bailey’s account at Vergi Emergency Hospital.

And Bailey? Between his house and kennel building he had 13 dogs and 14 cats he’d rescued when Harvey hit. One of his main points of focus is a part of Old Katy. Bailey was unable to feed the feral cat community there for about two days. With the help of CAP’s TNR program, he has worked to reduce its numbers in half to about 50 cats. He also cares for many stray and tied-up dogs and thinks they all survived.

He took one to Nottingham for general care and to treat a skin infection from the nasty waters and replaced one of the Igloo dog houses that he previously provided and supplied food.

“I’m fortunate I can do it,” Bailey said. “I couldn’t turn my back on all these animals.”

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

49

Health

MYTHS About Cats

DEBUNKING THE TRICKS AND TREATS

By Dr. Laura Noaker | www.vergi247.com

A

s October is the month of tricks and treats, we thought we would clear up 5 famous myths about our feline companions that are lurking around and their possible origins…

1. Black cats are unlucky.

Black cats have been associated with bad luck and evil for hundreds of years.

This superstition can be traced back to the Middle Ages.

In Europe, some women were accused of witchcraft and black magic.

Many had cats as companions, so they became guilty by association. Today, we see black cats as part of our Halloween celebration. In reality, the only supernatural powers that black cats possess are unconditional love.

However, you might note, in some countries felines are said to bring good fortune.

be explained because their coats don’t dry very quickly, which can leave them feeling pretty cold and uncomfortable. Also, the weight of the water could weigh them down keeping them from escaping perceived danger quickly. It could also be that cats’ original descen-

more often than not they will land on their feet. This is simply because of their “righting reflex” combined with a very flexible backbones that allows them to twist around very quickly in the air when falling.

Unfortunately this isn’t always the case. Every year we treat cats which have fallen.

Some make a recovery, but devastatingly, lots don’t.

Some

5. Cats can see in complete darkness.

dants evolved in deserts with little rain. However, what we do know, if you do need to bathe your cat, especially for medical reasons, use positive encouragement while gently introducing them to the water.

who don’t succumb to their injuries, suffer lifechanging damage that can be expensive to treat. We recommend keeping windows closed to prevent cats from falling out.

4. Cats have nine lives.

2. Cats hate water.

It’s true, most domestic kitties are not fans of water.

Scientists think this can easily

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Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet where the bard refers to the nine lives of cats. It could also come from ancient Egypt where cats were revered as sacred animals and worshiped as divine creatures with supernatural powers.

However, it is more likely that the myth developed over time due to cats’ ability to get themselves out of some pretty sticky situations.

3. Cats always land on their feet.

This is pure fiction. True, when a cat falls from a height,

Another myth! Cats, like humans, only have one life.

The origin is unclear, but it’s been around since William

This fabrication couldn’t be more false. The truth is, their eyes let in far more light than humans for a number of reasons. The corneas in a cat’s eye are much thinner than in humans and their irises open far wider, both of which allows more light to enter. Their retinas also have more rods, which are responsible for magnifying light impulses. Like many animals, cats also have a highly developed reflective area in the back of their eyes – this is what makes them glow at night when caught in our headlights.

So, now you know the facts.

Cats may be finicky, but they make wonderful companions, so don’t believe all the folklore about our furry feline friends.

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Health

HALLOWEEN TREATS BEWARE!

By Kate Lawrence | Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists | www.gcvs.com

I

t’s that spooky time of year again…Halloween is coming! Most people know how to keep themselves and their children safe on Halloween night, but it’s equally important to keep your furry family members safe while trickor-treating, whether you are away from your home or handing out candy to trick-or-treaters.

Halloween is a great holiday to interact with neighbors and children, however, it’s also a great holiday for sneakier dogs and cats to slip out of the door when you’re distracted with giving away candy, or they nose open a door that wasn’t closed all the way.

Unfortunately, many dogs and cats make it outside during the Halloween holiday, so keep your animals either in a sequestered area or on a leash. Outside cats and dogs should ideally be brought inside for the evening. If

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you like to decorate for the holiday, make sure the wires, plugs and various cords from your decorations are out of reach or covered – unfortunately many animals (especially cats!) think they are fun toys; how-

ever, serious burns or electrocution can occur with chewing or playing. The same caution should be taken with candles or other flames that are used in jack-o-lanterns, for example.

Curious kitties or young dogs, in particular, like to see what that moving light is, and can

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, CONTACT A VETERINARY EMERGENCY HOSPITAL IMMEDIATELY OR THE ANIMAL POISON CONTROL CENTER AT (888) 426-4435. get burned! When selecting your costume for the holiday, keep in mind that when you put it on, you might look REALLY scary and unusual to your pet. The same is true for visitors and children who come knocking while trick-ortreating. If your dog is not in a separate room for the evening hours, be wary that he or she might interpret these festive costumes as a threat to you or your home, and could react with fear or aggression.

Additionally, these days, there are almost as many cute and comical pet costumes as there are human ones! If you decide to get your pet into the holiday spirit with a Halloween costume, be sure to choose one that fits your animal (not too tight or loose), and never leave

your pet unattended while wearing a costume.

Finally, one of the most obvious ways to keep your pet safe on and around Halloween is to be careful with the candy! Candy is central to the Halloween holiday tradition, and as we all know, chocolate is a no-no for pets.

Additionally, there are many candies that contain xylitol, which is very dangerous for animals when ingested. Make sure that your candy bowl is put away and all the candy stashes are kept in safe, secure locations, far away from prying noses - especially during the actual trick-or-treating hours, when it often feels more convenient to keep it out or close by the door. In case of emergency, contact a veterinary emergency hospital immediately or the Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Halloween is a fun, festive holiday for the whole family, but remember to keep your furry kids in mind when making plans for the evening.

Having a plan in place in case of emergency is the best way to keep your whole family safe!

any regular price dog or cat adoption fee expires 10/31/2017 Houston PetTalk Magazine

53

Tail End

IT'S A Hairball!

HACK, HACK, HACK

©iStockPhoto

By Michelle Mantor

T

hat’s the sound of your fancy feline regurgitating the dreaded hairbal (not coughing…the hairball lives in the digestive system, not the lungs).

Should you be worried about this trichobezoar (the scientific name for this smushy little prize)? Not to worry if it’s occasional but excessive vomiting of hairballs should require a trip to the vet for a check-up.

Cats groom themselves about 10 percent of their

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waking hours so that’s a lot of digested hair that has to go somewhere. In severe cases, a hairball can cause a blockage. Symptoms would include weight loss, loss of appetite and excessive hacking.

Cat vomiting can be a sign of other things as well including: spoiled food, parasites, diabetes, kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease, change of diet or eating plants.

Make Them Go Away!

So what is the acceptable

number of hairballs? I know you are thinking ZILCH. Yes, that’s in a perfect world and your cat is a stuffed animal. In the real world, you are going to experience them...well you are not, your cat will but you will be in charge of postregurgitation duty. So, since that’s your job, let’s see how you can get that number as low as possible: Brush your cat daily, especially long-haired varieties. Use deshedding tools.

Purchase commercial hairball

remedies that assist with the passage of hairballs by providing lubrication. Be sure to discuss these remedies with your veterinarian because some brands use mineral oil which can deplete vitamin A. There are also nutritional solutions marketed as “hairball formulas”.

Next time you are cleaning up a hairball, just remember that even though the hairball is gross, a meow massages the heart!

Tail End

BIG Rescue

BRINGING HOPE TO HARVEY STRAYS

By Christine Van Wart | HOPE, www.homelesspets.net

T

he timing couldn’t have been worse.

As Hurricane Harvey bore down on Houston and gaining strength every hour, most people were filling gas tanks, buying bottled water

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and canned food, preparing to hunker down. Mariana, a volunteer with HOPE was also preparing for the storm by racing across town from her home to NW Houston to scoop up the last of what she and

her co-rescuer Trish were now calling "The Big Rescue".

A few weeks before, HOPE had been contacted about helping with a neighborhood cat situation. Mariana and Trish volunteered, expecting to find a handful of adoptable kittens and maybe a few adults in need of TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return). Instead, they found themselves overwhelmed by cats and kittens— a nursing mother, twenty kittens, ranging in age from weeks to a few months, plus another possibly pregnant very young cat. That first day their reports back via text and email tell the story of their increasing desperation: “This is more than you can imagine!!!!

Kittens EVERYWHERE!!!”

“Who can round up a dozen fosters?” “Had mom but she got away” “14 kittens captured this evening at the location…

still more there. We will try again to get the mom cat tomorrow.” “I might have a pregnant youngster.” And on they went.

The volunteers caught mom the next day and reunited her with the babies. Facebook pleas kept blasting out.

Fosters volunteered to take in 7 of the babies (including one foster who then had to evacuate her flooded home with her 5 kittens). But there were many more waiting for homes…and more still waiting to be trapped. Finally, with the storm due the next day, Mariana knew this was her last chance, and the cat's as well. Just in the nick of time came her relieved message: “We got the last 6 kittens!”

If you are interested in either adopting or fostering, please contact HOPE at hope@homelesspets.net.

Website

Facebook

Tail End

HARVEY Rescue Fund

PETTALK RAISES OVER $10K FOR HOUSTON'S ANIMALS

By Desiree Lonsway

W

hen the she began to wonder what dirty side of she could do to help Houston Hurricane in this crisis. Trapped in her Harvey hit Houston, nobody home, she still had power and could imagine the catastrophic the internet as tools. Watching flood disaster that would so many people evacuating occur. As a tropical storm, their homes, Michelle was Harvey dropped 40-52 inches inspired by Houstonians who of rainfall when it stalled would not leave their pets over the Houston area. The behind and began to wonder inconceivable amount of about the animals who were flooding that would rise up not as lucky. and shut down our city was For over 17 years, Houston beyond belief. Immediately PetTalk has been the primary Houstonians showed their source for pet information in altruistic spirit by stepping in Houston by educating the to save neighbors effected by public about responsible the rising waters. For days, as pet care. Her mission soon the storm continued, many of became clear. She could assist us were glued to the news as in this time of need by raising we helplessly watched our city money for the many varied become engulfed in water, but animal emergencies and the empowered by the kindness continuing care that were a reof so many people coming out, sult of the storm. Immediately braving the storm to rescue she set up a GoFundMe page those in need.

Help The Animals of Houston As Houston PetTalk editor Floods.

Michelle Mantor watched the “Through all the years of waters rise around her own providing pet information to home, she was trapped with no physical way to escape.

Luckily, her family was safe and the waters had not yet penetrated her home.

Like so many Houstonians, she wanted to assist.

Tinkerbell was found after the flood and is being fostered. The PetTalk fund paid for However, feelmuch needed dental work. ing paralyzed,

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Houston, I have created many valuable relationships with local veterinarians, rescue groups and pet businesses” Mantor stated, “I could use those connections to coordinate, disperse funds and find as many low cost options as possible.” Recognizing there would be many animals with wounds, illnesses, injuries, starvation, parasites and more, Mantor went to work. It was no surprise that with her long lived reputation for helping animals, the page had a huge response in the first few days.

In less than a week, Mantor helped raise over $10,000. “I started the fund with money raised through PetTalk’s signature event Doggy Party on the Plaza”, said Mantor, “from there, many people and companies joined in and donated quickly”.

Mantor explained that the funds raised in this account will be used to help pay for

medical cost of lost, stranded and abandoned animals found during and after the storm. and true to her word, she has already provided multiple sized crates for temporary adoption centers, emergency veterinary supplies and services needed as well as vetting services for some of the abandoned animals.

Unfortunately, after the storm passed and the reservoirs were released, Mantor, like so many Houstonians, would succumb to the the rising waters and loose her home. However, with a hopeful outlook, she is in the process of rebuilding.

Harvey’s long-lived odyssey has come to an end but its catastrophic impacts will be felt for weeks and months and years to come. If you would like to help PetTalk help these animals, you can visit www.gofundme.com/ harveyanimalshoustonpettalk.

Dusty (on bed) was one of 4 abandoned puppies vetted with the PetTalk fund. Dusty is enjoying his new home and big brother Tucker.

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Tail End

HURRICANE Rescue

HORSES SAVED BY BLUEBONNET EQUINE HUMANE SOCIETY

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animals to answer those pleas for help. One volunteer made several trips from Georgetown to the Houston area, wading through water to lead horses out to her trailer. Another volunteer swam through flood water to help evacuate stranded horses.

Bluebonnet knew that its role in assisting horses and their owners didn’t end when the horses reached dry ground. The organization teamed up with a mobile veterinarian, Dr. Kris Anderson, to help horses after the waters began to recede. They established a donation fund to pay for veterinary care for those horses who were stranded in flood waters. Many suffered injuries from debris floating in the water, and others continue to suffer from a condition called “river rot” in which the horse loses large patches of hair and skin.

Dr. Anderson and Bluebonnet also continue to manage a donation site.

Bluebonnet has added ten new equines to their foster program and believes they’ll be asked to assist with more horses in the coming weeks.

One horse’s owner told a neighbor that he no longer wanted the horse, so he planned to leave him behind to fend for himself when he evacuated. The neighbor protested, so the horse’s owner told her she could have the horse. She then signed the horse over to Bluebonnet and he’s recovering in a foster home.

To learn more about Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society or the organization’s Hurricane Harvey Relief programs, visit www.bluebonnetequine.org.

Photos by Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society

C

ats and dogs aren’t the only animals suffering during natural disasters: horses suffer, too. It can be difficult and expensive to evacuate with them, and owners often believe that their animals can find high ground to stay out of flood waters. Unfortunately Hurricane Harvey’s recordsetting rainfall meant that even high ground was underwater, and many horses were trapped in rising floodwaters.

Fortunately, Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society was there to help. The organization’s Executive Director Dr. Jennifer Williams joined other equine welfare enthusiasts to manage a Facebook group where horse owners could post for help. People then volunteered to help those owners get their horses out flood waters and to evacuation centers.

Some of Bluebonnet’s volunteers took time off work and away from their own

Donors from across the country have brought hay, grain, dog and cat food, and supplies for horses, dogs, cats, and other livestock owners.

Volunteers are distributing these items to animal owners who suffered property damage and loss due to Hurricane Harvey. Bluebonnet’s Dr. Williams, says, “Our goal is to provide long-term support while owners rebuild and regroup. We hope to keep as many horses with their owners as possible.”

Unfortunately, some owners are unable to keep their horses even with support. The process of rebuilding is too great, they’ve lost too much, or they’re forced to move. So far,

SPENCER

meet

is a cairn terrier/schnauzer mix with a lot of personality, he is a big lap dog and an adorable little 12 week loves getting petted, also old puppy full of energy likes to ride in your lap in and love. Wiggles still the car!!! He gets on great needs some house training with other dogs and romps but is smart and will and plays in the yard, he is learn fast. He loves to run approx.

1.5with years and and play hisold rescue 15 lbs andand just would one happy buddies, love a little guy! companion as a best friend.

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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d e l a e v e R RESCUE

& S S E L OME

H

F

ounded in 1999, Homeless & Orphaned Pets Endeavor (HOPE) is an inhome foster, no kill adoption group. Dedicated to ending the homelessness of cats and dogs in the greater Houston area, HOPE facilitates this mission through an adoption program supported through fostering. In addition, the rescue group focuses on educating the public about responsible pet care and they participate in a feral cat TrapNeuter-Return initiative.

To facilitate adoptions, HOPE sponsors adoption events at area PETCO stores on weekends. Check their website to find upcoming adoption events at www. homelesspets.net. Or, follow HOPE on Facebook for the latest news and adoptables.

Each issue, we highlight a local 501(c)3 animal charity in hopes that our readers will find their true love with one of these rescue groups!

Charities are chosen from PetTalk GoFetch, our pet directory website and free mobile App, www.pettalkgofetch.com. To be listed as a rescue group, please email info@houstonpettalk.com.

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TS E P D E PHAN

OR

)

E P O H ( OR V A E D EN

Harper

Meet Harper, who is about 2.5 yrs. old and weighs 65 lbs.

Harper is one happy, friendly, outgoing guy! He likes ALL people (adults and kids) and ALL dogs (male, female, big, small). He's playful (but not over the top), sweet, loves to fetch the tennis ball, go on walks, be petted, give hugs, and to top it all off, he's so handsome!! He crates well too. So, well...he's perfect!

Dumpling

Dumpling was spotted clinging to a windowsill during Hurricane Harvey and rescued shortly thereafter. She is a beautiful chocolate point Siamese mix with lovely blue eyes.

She has some spunk, but she enjoys quiet time and is looking for a place to call home.

Wouldn't you just love to stare into those blue eyes everyday?

Chris

Chris is always on the move. He loves to chase strings, crinkle balls or wrestling plush toys, he is up for any and all playtime activities. He's the initiator of the sibling wrestling matches and would be great in a home with kitty siblings or human siblings to play with. After an exhausting day of playtime, he is a great snuggle buddy!

(281) 835-4445 14420 Fondren Rd, Missouri City, 77489 One block south of Beltway 8 on Fondren.

What we do is more than mere business transactions.

We provide both peace of mind and outstanding pet care.

Plus we guarantee your satisfaction!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

63

CONSERVATION Corner NOT-SO-CREEPY CREATURES

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A

s summertime fades and fall comes around, the excitement of Halloween can be seen all over town. Stores fill their shelves with seasonal decorations and costumes for the kids, Halloween candy lines grocery store aisles, and spooky movies are played in theatres and homes. Also at this time of year, a few

Photos, Stephanie Adams/Houston Zoo

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 some animals that get a "bad rap". Look for other upcoming conservation stories so that you too can help save a species.

By: Lauren St. Pierre

animals – like bats, tarantulas and snakes – get a bad reputation for being frightening creatures, when, in fact, they are mostly harmless and essential to the ecosystem.

Take bats for example.

Common misconceptions and fears have led many people to view this species as scary, blood-thirsty, diseasecarrying animals. In reality

bats are extremely helpful in controlling the population of crop-destroying insects and helping to produce everyday favorite foods. While some people think bats are pests, they are actually pest controllers eating thousands of insects every night. Because bats eat so many mosquitoes in some regions, they can also reduce the need for

harmful pesticide sprays.

Bats are also important pollinators, with more than 500 plant species relying on them to pollinate their flowers, including species of banana, cocoa, and agave. So, the next time you eat some chocolate or enjoy a margarita, say thanks to the bats! One not-so-scary misconception about bats is they are blind.

Bats can actually see quite well, but also use a system of ultrasonic navigation called echolocation.

Movies also often depict tarantulas as terrifying, maneating monsters. This depiction couldn’t be farther from the truth. In fact, tarantulas are shy and avoid contact with humans, and they certainly aren’t man-eating.

Tarantulas prefer an array of insects, including grasshoppers, beetles, cockroaches, and crickets and smaller spiders. Tarantulas, and most species of spiders, are also important pest controllers, and can be thanked for controlling the population of these pesky bugs. You don’t have to worry about tarantulas walking up to you. These nocturnal homebodies rarely venture more than a foot from their burrow except during mating season.

In addition to the seemingly scary bats and tarantulas, snakes can also evoke fear that is usually misplaced.

Though it may be cliché, it’s true – snakes are usually more scared of people than people are of them. Snakes won’t crawl up and bite something a hundred times its size. Snakes are also not interested in humans as food; their diet primarily consists

of birds, reptiles, and small mammals, and they’re very beneficial at keeping pest populations down in certain regions.

Though many people are afraid of these species, it is vital to recognize their importance in our ecosystem and

to protect them in the wild.

Without bats, spiders, and snakes, we would not have some of our favorite foods, like chocolate and fruits, and pest populations would be out of control. You can learn more about these amazing animals at the Houston

Zoo this fall during Zoo Boo, the zoo’s annual Halloween event, celebrated the last three weekends in October.

Simply by visiting the Houston Zoo, you help save animals, like bats, spiders and snakes, in the wild!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

65

Marketplace

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PET SITTER & DOG WALKER Servicing Central West Houston from Memorial City to the Heights

832.229.8095 WWW.DOGGIEWALKSHOUSTON.COM CONTACT@DOGGIEWALKSHOUSTON.COM

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