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August 2018
Editorial
I
f there is one thing that gets an emotional response from people, it's anything to do with their pet... or someone else's pet! Plenty of people love their pet and are well-intentioned, but that doesn't mean they don't make mistakes or have erroneous beliefs. From uninformed caretaking of your furry one, to the maddening things we see other owners do, let's just say there is plenty to talk about! Maybe you've bought into myths or untruths? You might be surprised at what you don't know. There is a difference between being uninformed and simply being a bonehead. As an example, you may be uninformed about the fact that cats require Taurine in their diet or that a dog's dry nose does not mean he is sick. However, anyone of reasonable intelligence should know that it's boneheaded to allow an unrestrained dog to ride in the back of a pick up truck. For the sake of the animals, we decided to launch an INFORMATION ISSUE - aimed at debunking myths, changing bad behaviors and also giving pet care providers a
Issue 07: Volume 18 www.houstonpettalk.com
chance to share what pet parents do that drive them crazy. Sometimes it just takes getting a little information to have an AHA moment and learn that something you've been doing may not be the best way to go about it. I hope you find some useful tidbits and come away from this issue feeling like a powerful, informed pet owner. Next up in this issue, we have some supercool pet products that are designed to be just that - items that will help your pet keep cool and well hydrated in the heat. From circulating water systems for cats who famously won't drink still water to cooling pet beds that are perfect for travel, see them all in our product feature on page 42. This issue also highlights the winner and top finalists in our 5th Annual Beach Bum Photo contest sponsored by Sand N' Sea Galveston properties. We had an amazing response and we are thrilled to share ALL of the photos showing our reader's pets having tons of summer fun on Galveston's beaches. The finalists were chosen by public voting and the winner was chosen by Sand N' Sea. We know you will smile when you see all of these pups enjoying
On The Cover A big THANK YOU to photographer Robyn Arouty (shown here with her pup Cupcake) for capturing just the right quizzical look for our Information Issue. Cover dog Avery gave the perfect head tilt that says, "My owner did what???", thus making this shot perfect for our feature story. Sadly, Avery passed suddenly soon after this image was taken, making this cover bittersweet. She is definitely missed by her family! Learn more about Robyn at www. robynarouty.com.
the sea air on page 22. Plus, here at PetTalk headquarters, we are digging all of the Instagram posts in response to our theme prompts and of course we want to share those photos too - check them out on page 24. Speaking of summer and keeping it cool, unfortunately the Houston heat can be deadly for our pets. Heat stroke is not uncommon and can be life threatening. On page 52, we share tips for protecting your pet. I also want to give a shout-out to my talented pal, Desiree Lonsway for the insanely good illustration she did for us to go with the article. Thanks Des! There's lots more to read and see in this issue and as you finish up summer vacation and get the kids back to school, take some time for yourself to kick back, relax and read your PetTalk...with your furry friend by your side of course! Enjoy...
HOUSTON PETTALK MAGAZINE 14781 Memorial Drive, Ste. 510, Houston, Texas 77079 281-556-6560 www.HoustonPetTalk.com Design and layout by: ANDREW BURWELL www.andrewburwell.com Š Copyright 2018. 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 Šcopyright depositphotos unless otherwise stated.
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Houston PetTalk Magazine
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Henrietta
S
ome things in life are very simple. Discerning between a good and bad wine is quite easy. Recognizing a good looking Hunk O’ Male when he trots by is a breeze. Understanding the pleasure of a masseuse over a vibrating, neck-kneading massage chair is a cinch. Now, here’s another simplicity in life… a simple fact about me: I was born to travel. It’s true that my skills as a gossip hound, rovering reporter, food critic, beverage consumer and bling fanatic are all certifiable, but it’s also a well-documented fact that I’m a travel connoisseur. But, there is one small problem: flying is not my gig. For starters, I’m afraid to fly. I’ve recorded an impressive 5 Bloody Marys before boarding a 6am flight; I can’t seem to get all of my fashion-self into a bag weighing less than the prerequisite 50 lb. limit; I always trigger the security alarm at the airport (it’s usually my b.b. simon belt) and the smallest sign of turbulence sends has me tucking my tail between my legs and leaving claw marks in any arm within reach. Although I love to travel to far away places in search of my ancestry…Nova Scotia to see the Labradors, Mexico to see the Chihuahuas, Alaska to see the Malamutes, England to see the Sheepdogs and I once even tried to go to a place called Cardigan to see Welsh Corgis but it was just a bunch of two-leggers in sweaters. Point being that worldly travel is appealing, but when contemplating the hassle of flying… not so much. So, what to do about that dilemma? I’ve figured out that I can have just as much
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fun without leaving the state of Texas, or even Houston for that matter. For this issue, I was sent on the “beat” to Galveston to check out some pet-
friendly lodging and evaluate the canine comforts. It was during this sojourn to the
Gulf Coast that I realized how easy it is to have a staycation without the hassle of body searches, luggage limits and hours sitting next to a drooling, snoring stranger. What an AHA moment! I checked out the Hotel Galvez and was instantly attracted to its history and architecture. I could definitely see myself lounging on a velvet settee in the lobby, sipping champagne and enjoying the fact that dogs are much preferred over cats at these fancy establishments. Next, I trotted over to the Hilton where I was promptly turned away due to a No Pet Policy. Hmf. I can’t say I understand these rules. They allow kids who most definitely pee in the pool and we only pee on the bushes. But, whatever. There are plenty of other choices of accommodations on the island that are not so boneheaded. After a quick jog through the Whataburger drive-thru (all this lounging was making me hungry!), I headed to the Treemont Hotel where I heard 4-leggers were welcome (and I just made it under the weight limit even after the Double Meat Whataburger). The place was like going back in time...in a good way. Maybe not the best location for finding some good green grass to sniff and do a little “landscaping” but still very charming. Did I stop there? Do you think I’m crazy? I’m on an expense account. So off I went to La Quinta Inn & Suites where they were not only welcoming, but actually offered me a suite for the night to check out their hotel. Score! Their very dog-loving staff gave me a suite with a full kitchen and view of the ocean. I mixed up my favorite puparani martini, kicked back, put my paws up and enjoyed the sea air. Ahh…if DL could see me now. She thinks this assignment was RUFF and is giving me hazard pay for staying overnight. I’m still smiling about that one!
Illustration by Jim Tweedy, colorized by Desiree Lonsway
Henrietta On: The Advantages Of A Staycation
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The Dish
H
ey Party Animals...Did you know you can add your own 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
Save The Dates 09.07.18
Houston PetSet Soiree Don’t miss this fabulous annual gala, “Fierce & Fabulous’, benefitting Houston PetSet, a local charitable organization that raises money for varied pet charities around Houston. This year’s event will be held at the Post Oak Hotel and will include auction, entertainment, dinner and more! Find out details or purchase your ticket at www.houstonpetset.org.
10.13.18
Barktoberfest Last year, Barktoberfest raised over $28K! This fun event is back in October so stay tuned for details. www.bayareapetadoptions.org
11.17.18
Events 08.06.18-08.10.18 Companion Camp
Houston Humane Society 14700 Almeda Road Houston, TX 77053 9:30am to 3:00pm This camp is a great opportunity for children ages 7-13 to work with some of the animals on hand, teach them how to bond with the animals, how to care for the animals, and develop valuable skills. Find info at www.houstonhumane.org.
08.17.18
A Place for Peanut Kirby Ice House 3333 Eastside Houston, TX 77098 7:00pm to 10:00pm
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Citizen's for Animal Protection Celebrity Paws Gala A Place for Peanut, a horse sanctuary, will hold a fundraiser presented by Honorary Chair Michelle Maresh along with Gala Co-Chairs Christine and Steve Johnson. The event will welcome guests to a fun-filled evening with bites and beverages and live entertainment provided by Houston’s legendary Scott Gertner Jazz Band. Houston abstract artist Ann Marie Vancas will paint “live” a piece of artwork that will be auctioned during the evening for the organization. Casey Curry will serve as the Master of Ceremonies. PetTalk editor Michelle Mantor will be honored at the event for her contribution to horse rescue. Guests will have the chance to meet two miniature rescue horses from the sanctuary and place their bets in a live and silent auction. Find out details at www.aplaceforpeanut.com.
Join CAP as they celebrate the 32nd Annual Celebrity Paws Gala at the Royal Sonesta Hotel. This annual gala is one of the TOP DOG events of the year and is not to be missed. Enjoy cocktails, live and silent auction, dinner, entertainment and the ever-popular Celebrity Paws Honoree Winner announcement. Come help raise money for the homeless pets at the shelter while enjoying a fabulous evening! Find details at www.cap4pets.org.
Ongoing
Housotn SPCA Run For A Reason Team Join the Houston SPCA's Run For A Reason team and be a hero for the animals. Registration is open for the January 20, 2019 Chevron Houston Marathon and Aramco Houston Half Marathon. For more information, visit www.houstonspca.org.
YOUTH & PAWS PROGRAM
It's a Jungle Out There!
T
his fun, themed, 4 week summer school is part of the Barrio Dogs’ Youth & Paws program, designed to reach out to school age children by promoting Barrio Dogs’ commitment to educating, empowering, and transforming Houston’s East End community through teaching and information about proper pet care. About 5 years ago, teachers at Davila Elementary realized how their students might benefit from this type of program, so, they worked with Barrio Dogs and Lisa Hurley First to develop this unique and special program. The children, for their part, are encouraged to pass on lessons learned to others in the community. Lisa puts emphasis on using innovative ideas and lots of imagination to make learning enjoyable for the kids. Above all, by using her two Educational Ambassador dogs, Pinto and Levi, she teaches children how to respect and care for their pets. The importance of spay/ neuter is stressed, especially given the overpopulation crisis that Houston faces. Students are taught why an animal or child should never be left in a hot car;
Caring for Hearts... at Both Ends of the Leash!
they also learn how to behave when approached by a stray dog. Children learn about vet visits and vaccinations. The health risks to pets from flea and tick exposure are explained in simple terms, and preventative treatments are introduced. Lisa makes teaching these important lessons pleasurable and stimulating by including videos and interactive games, where both dogs and students dress up. The children love the creativity of this program, the toys, stuffed animals, and especially the opportunity to use their artistic talents to illustrate what they learn in class.
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The Dish
CITIZENS FOR ANIMAL PROTECTION
Low-Cost Wellness & Vaccine Clinic Open Four Days A Week
C
itizens for Animal Protection (CAP) has expanded the hours of its Low-Cost Wellness and Vaccination Clinic to four days a week. Previously only open on Saturdays, the Cornelius Clinic is now open every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9am-3pm to better accommodate the needs of the community. Services include affordable vaccinations, nail trimming, microchipping, deworming, heartworm testing, and several other
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preventative and wellness services. The clinic is walk-in only, so no appointment is needed. Dogs, puppies, cats, kittens, rabbits and other small mammals are welcome for basic services. During a visit to the Cornelius Clinic pets will receive a basic examination by a veterinarian which includes an examination of the skin, eyes, ears, mouth, teeth, temperature, and overall body. The clinic does not provide treatment for sick, heartworm positive or
injured animals. If minor health issues are detected, such as fleas or parasites, the veterinarian can suggest medication for treatment. If the issues are more serious, the pet owner will be instructed to take their pet to a full-service veterinary clinic. Visit www.cap4pets.org to view the clinic’s policies, guidelines, and current pricing. All proceeds from the clinic and online medication purchases help shelter animals at CAP.
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The Winner & Top 10 Finalists
1
st
Bella & Moochie
Hank
Ladybug
Paw-mela Anderson Kona, Shapiro, Saidah & Arkose
Stacks
2nd
Taylor
Mercury & Simba
Fiona
3rd Wendy
4th
Sand N Sea BEACH BUM Photo Contest!
B
each Bum fun! PetTalk's annual BEACH BUM photo contest sponsored by Sand N' Sea Properties Galveston once again captured some super-cool pets having fun in the sun on a Galveston beach.
Congratulations to this year's winning foursome, Kona, Shapiro, Saidah and Arkose who will receive a Big Bag of goodies from Sand N Sea Properties. The finalists in the contest were chosen by public voting and Sand N' Sea had
the difficult task of selecting a winner. Watch for this annual contest each June! Sand ‘N Sea Properties loves to welcome canine friends and owners to Galveston Island where a beach house is the perfect place to spend quality time
G A LV E S T O N I S L A N D VA C AT I O N R E N TA L S 409.797.5500 I sandnsea.com
with family and four-legged friends. Sand `N Sea offers many pet friendly vacation homes on the beach and bay. To reserve your Sand `N' Sea beach or canal front home, visit www.sandnsea.com or call 409.797.5500.
SINCE 1974
Arnie & Eydie
Bella
Bentley & Riley
Cooper & Royal
Bunny
Butlers
Charlotte
Sonoma, Lincoln, Gretchen, and Cinco
Gracie
Gracie & Bree
Rolo
Jax
Leo
Lily
Olive
PeanutButter
Pebbles
Riley, Kinnick & Penny
Shaman
Sheldon
Tonka
Zuri
We LOVE publishing the cute and creative photo entries in our contests! When space provides, we print all entries and when space isn’t available, we print photos of only the winner and finalists. We also try to include the name of each fabulous pet, so if you enter future contests, please be sure to let us know the name of your furry friend(s)!
I
Keeping it COOL!
t's Doggone hot outside! What's your strategy for Keeping It Cool this summer? We asked PetTalk fans to share their best photos that say "We keep it cool by...". Straight from our Instagram, we’re sharing some of the fun and creative posts. Watch for our monthly Instagram theme and share your pet's adventures with us - we love to publish our reader's furbabies!
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Houston PetTalk Magazine
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Don't Be A Bonehead: Crazy Owner Antics, Myth Busting & Pet Peeves THE ROAD TO BETTER PET OWNERSHIP
A
By Michelle Mantor
Šknape
re you an informed pet owner? Or are you someone who might not be devouring pet care information on a regular basis, but you work hard to do the right thing? Or, are you one of those people that, although you may not recognize it, you do some things that are foolish if not down right dangerous to your pet or to others? This is a category I call boneheads. The uninformed but well-intentioned (mostly) are the pet owners we hope to influence in this INFORMATION ISSUE. Unfortunately, there is even a fourth category that is downright cruel to animals but those individuals will hopefully be dealt with by law enforcement. One of the reasons I was prompted to do a "reboot" on this subject which we featured in 2015, is because I witnessed several pet owners standing on hot blacktop pavement recently at a pet event. The outside temp was 98 degrees and the pavement had to be 120 degrees or more. They were chatting away
with friends while their dog was moving around at their feet, trying not to stand in place and fry their paw pads. I am convinced these pet owners had no idea their pet's feet were in danger of being burned. They were just either uninformed or not paying attention. So, for our pet's sake, I thought Pet Peeves 2.0 would be a good refresher! If we can rescue, help, save or prevent any animal from a negative situation, we will certainly try. We are arming you with information to debunk myths, dispel untruths and even share the pet peeves of those working in the pet industry so that you can see things from their perspective. To do this, we asked some of the top pet care providers in Houston to tell us the myths and incorrect assumptions they encounter daily as they groom, train, board and provide healthcare to your pets (anonymously of course to ensure we get the truth). So, pet caretakers, read, learn and go forth with your newfound knowledge! Houston PetTalk Magazine
29
Kitty Knowledge
MYTH VS. TRUTH The best way to pick up a cat is by the scruff of the neck. Scruffing, or picking up a cat by the loose skin on the nape of the neck, is the way a mother cat moves her kittens. When a kitten is scruffed, he naturally goes limp, so the kitten may be carried easily. Once a kitten
reaches the age of 6 months or so, scruffing is no longer a good way to carry a cat - he weighs too much, and carrying the cat in this manner puts too much stress on the nape of the neck, causing pain and potentially causing injury to the neck muscles and skin.
My indoor cat can't get heartworms. While not the natural hosts their canine counterparts are, cats CAN get heartworms, and sadly, there is no treatment for heartworms in cats. It only takes the bite of a single infected mosquito to transfer heartworms, and in a place like Houston, mosquitoes are found indoors as well as outdoors. At one local clinic, every cat that has tested positive was an indoor cat.
Cats are dangerous for pregnant women. If a woman has not been exposed to Toxoplasmosis and becomes infected during pregnancy, it can harm her unborn baby. Cats are natural hosts for Toxoplasmosis and can shed oocysts in their stool. Expectant mothers should be careful when cleaning a litter box. Most cats have never been exposed to Toxoplasmosis and do not carry it. If in doubt, have your veterinarian test your cat. In addition, pregnant women should not be gardening because she can be exposed to the feces of neighbor cats as well.
Cats Need To Go Outdoors To Be Happy. Industry experts profess that cats need 30 cubic feet of space to live a healthy life. That is less than most bathrooms.
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There are so many things outside waiting to kill your cat. Dogs, other cats, cars, tree trimmers, yard men, FELV, FIV, and FIP, just to name a few.
Cats don't need baths. While it's true cats groom themselves daily, some cats, especially long-haired cats, benefit from help from their owners. Regular baths can reduce shedding, help avoid hairballs, cut down on dry, flaky skin, and avoid mats before they become painful and lead to skin infections.
Grooming cats is really hard. Grooming cats isn't necessarily more difficult than grooming dogs, but it all depends on how the cat has been introduced to grooming and has been handled. If a cat is introduced to CONSISTENT grooming at a young age,
they are quite amenable to bathing, brushing, nail trims, etc. However, it is not uncommon to find that cat owners don't "handle" their cat as much as dog owners handle their dog, so if your cat is petted and not groomed on a regular basis, then yes, they might throw a hissy fit when you try to bathe them!
My cat was active but now he hides. I guess he's just shy in his older years.
Cats should drink milk. False: Only if you are ok with diarrhea, but otherwise, not so much. In fact, some vets use carnation evaporated milk for a natural laxative in constipated cats.
It's OK for cats to play with yarn. False: Cats definitely love to play with tinsel and yarn and anything that moves. However, the choking risk or intestinal obstruction risk is far too high. Opt for veterinary-approved toys that move and grab your cat's attention but are safe for play, such as laser lights and pole/feather teasers.
Most cats (and dogs) don't suddenly change personality habits when they get older, but rather, a change in behavior often times can be a medical issue. Cats are notorious for hiding pain because in the wild, animals that show pain are considered weak and possibly will become another animal's dinner. Cats often hide when in pain so take your cat in for a check-up if his or her behavior has changed or if they are getting up in age, they need an annual senior exam. They could have anything from a urinary tract infection to an infected tooth. Regular veterinary visits are essential!
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Don't be this dog owner... My dog needs to go to the dog park and learn to play with others. Even though he's a bit scared, he'll get used to it. That is a fantastic philosophy for ruining your dog's self confidence and potentially getting your dog injured. It also will do nothing for creating a relationship of trust between you and your dog. Not all dogs are meant for dog park play. Actually, there are MANY dogs that should not be pushed into play at a dog park. If your pet shows signs of fear, shyness, reluctance, don't push it. Would you like someone to make you stand up on stage and give a presentation to 1000 people if you didn't really want to? Give your dog some space and respect their personality. If you feel that your dog would enjoy the park if given encouragement, employ a professional dog trainer to help make that
determination and create a methodical plan for achieving the goal if it is agreed
that the dog would benefit.
Unless you are a total nitwit, you know it’s rude and disgusting not to pick up your dog’s poop. I would even go so far as to say that if you are not willing to pick up your pet’s waste, you shouldn’t have a pet. Would you have a child and not change their diaper? But beyond being rude, not picking up pet waste is VERY harmful to the environment. It gets into the water supply, making it the #3 cause of water pollution. Pet waste also contributes to diseases and viruses such as cysticerosis (tapeworms), ecoli, giardia, parvo, salmonellosis, toxocariasis …need we say more? Pick up your dog’s poop! PS…Don’t leave the bag on the curb or your neighbor’s lawn unless you really don’t like that neighbor. Place the bag in a trash can.
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©Brett Holmes Photography
What A Waste!
Flexi/retractable leashes are great for walking dogs.
©Tatiana Dyuvbanova
Nope! They are the worst thing ever invented. First, you have no control over a dog on a flexi-lead. Second, they can break and your dog get injured or run away and get lost. Third, they have been known to cause serious rope burn if the cord wraps around legs or around a finger (my daughter still has a scar on her ankle from 8 years ago at a Houston pet event when an owner allowed their dog to wrap around her leg). Fourth, too often, the human at the end of a flexi-lead is not paying attention and their dog can be 20 ft. away and next thing you know, they see a squirrel.. and well..you get the picture.
Dogs should have a litter before they are spayed. Dogs that have a litter before they are spayed are not better for it in any way. In fact, spayed dogs are at lower risk for breast cancer and uterine infections.
Although I really don't have control of my dog, I'm going to let them walk off leash on the trail so he can have some freedom. Where to start on this one??? I have been on a number of walks in parks, trails, beaches, etc. when an off-leash dog comes bounding toward me and my leashed dog. A dog on a leash will be more aggressive because they feel they have to be. They are tethered and
need to pretend they are not vulnerable, although they actually are. Of course my dog is going to instigate aggression when an unknown dog comes bounding toward her. Unfortunately, this scenario is all too common. Most people do not have total control over their dog. Don't walk your dog off leash in any environment, crowded or not, unless they will come to you under ANY circumstances..plus, please pay attention. Exercising your dog off leash while you are on a cell phone is a recipe for disaster.
My dog knows what I’m telling her to do. She's just being stubborn. Dogs do not generalize well - we have to train the same behavior in many different situations in order for the dog to fully understand what we want. Just because
your dog will sit on command, in your living room, while you hold up a treat, does not mean they understand to sit in the middle of a busy park, with squirrels running around and other dogs approaching them.
You are being cruel if you use a “choke” chain on your dog. You are not being cruel if you are properly using this training tool. Any tool, used incorrectly, may defeat the purpose of the tool. The metal link training collar is a connected chain with two large O rings, one at each end. Each O ring has a name: one is the dead ring and the other is the working ring. The leash is clasped to the working ring as the links form a circle and then the collar is slipped over the dogs head so the leash and working ring are Houston PetTalk Magazine
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Bacon seems to be universally liked by many species, however, it could be DEADLY to your dog. Bacon has a high fat content which can over stimulate the pancreas and may sometimes lead to pancreatitis (a life-threatening disease), high cholesterol and can contribute to the development of diabetes or unhealthy weight. Same goes for french fries or other high fat foods. It is of course fun to make our pets happy and give them something they love, but you could be slowly killing them with love. Try a healthy treat like a vegetable or a piece of cooked, low fat chicken. They will still love you just the same! Photo by Brianne Howell.
on the dog’s right side as you face the dog. The links, slipping through the working O ring are used as audible signals to the dog to pay attention to the leader. This metal link training collar should only be used for training and removed when the training session is over.
Puppies ”grow out of” peeing in the house/nipping/chewing furniture, etc. Many of the problem behaviors puppies exhibit earlier on do not just fade away
© Brianne Howell
My dog LOVES bacon! I give him a piece every morning.
as the puppy gets older. Actually, they can lead to bigger problems. The longer a puppy is allowed to practice unwanted behavior, the harder it is to change when they get older.
My dog loves to get fresh air out the window when she rides in the car. If your pup likes the refreshing feel of wind in their face, buy them a fan. It would be MUCH safer. If you suddenly have to brake, which often happens in
Houston traffic, your dog can be thrown out the window. And, not only is allowing your dog to hang out the window unsafe, but any unrestrained dog in a car is unsafe. If a car crashes at a speed of just 25mph, an unrestrained dog can be projected forward at a force equal to 40 times its weight. A large-size dog weighing 75 lbs., for example, can achieve an impact force of 3,000 pounds in a car crash, which could be a lethal blow for both a passenger and the pet.
Early spaying or neutering will cause my pet to have urinary incontinence. Not so. A recent study in the American Journal of Veterinary Medicine show only a very small percentage (<1%) of animals that are spayed or neutered before 6 months old result in urinary incontinence.
To potty train a pup, you should swat them on the muzzle when they make a mistake. © Brianne Howell
This old-fashioned method of correcting potty behavior has been proven not to work and only makes matters worse. You can actually create a "submissive wetter" or a pup that finds a hiding spot to pee. Swatting the pup on the muzzle when a puppy pees in an undesired location
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will create the association of wrongdoing - but the pup won't understand what his owner is upset about, thus creating a lack of confidence and trust. Rather, if you catch the pup in the act, vocalize a stern NO, then take the pup to the desired area and use your "go pee" command. If you don't catch them in the act, it's too late. They will have no idea what you are asking them to do if you try to correct - you'll just have to be more diligent the next time.
You Might Be A Bonehead If: 1. You leave your dog in the car “for
just a few minutes” while you run in a store when the temp is hot outside. Even with windows cracked, temperatures can rise within the car to deadly levels in less than 5 minutes! You don’t give them heartworm medication on a monthly basis. Houston is full of mosquitoes which is how dog’s get heartworms. If left unprotected, it’s
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Boneheaded Things Pet Owners Say ❖
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"I want a dog that doesn't shed." Really? Then you will need to get a stuffed animal. All dogs shed, some worse than others, but they all shed to some degree. "Will that distemper shot make my pet behave?" "Let the dogs sort it out." "If I neuter my dog, he'll be embarrassed." "My cat stopped using the litter box because she is mad at me."
family or a friend. To be safe, never leave a dog and child in a room alone and NEVER allow a dog of any size to get in the face of a baby crawling on the floor or a toddler. The face is the most affected area of bites for children under 10 (77%).
©chris-mueller
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only a matter of time before your dog can get this deadly disease. Indoor dogs are not immune to heartworm. You declaw your cat and let it outdoors. It has no way to protect itself. You take your dog to the dog park when you know your dog can be overly zealous or even aggressive. Do not put others and their pets in danger because you really want your dog to get some exercise. Enroll in a group obedience class (which is less expensive than private lessons if budget is a concern) and work out the socialization issues before entering a large space where dogs are off-leash. You allow your dog and any child to be alone in a room together. It doesn’t matter if the dog is large or small, or if the dog is “nice”... accidents happen. The odds that a dog bite victim will be a child are 3.2 to 1. (Center for Disease Control and Prevention). Severe injuries from dog bites is highest for children ages 5 to 9 years and three quarters of dogs involved in bite incidents belong to the victim's
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Šhamikus
6. You go on vacation and leave your
dogs at home and ask a teen neighbor to come check on them and feed them twice a day. There are so many things wrong with this scenario that there isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enough space to write about it. Leave the care of your furry loved one to a trained professional. Do the right thing...board your pet or hire a professional sitter to stay at your house or have them visit a minimum of three times per day and include walks.
It's fun to meet new dogs so I let my dog run up to dogs on the street. Many dogs that are otherwise friendly, are leash-reactive. Do not ever approach another dog and owner without asking permission from FAR AWAY. You can usually tell if the other dog is open to a meet and sniff, but never assume. Same goes for people. It's hard for you and I to
This is a cop-out from an owner that doesn't want to take their dog to the vet and spend time and money on the situation. If your senior dog is limping, moves stiffly, gets up very slowly, no longer jumps, etc., your dog most likely is in discomfort. To what level no one knows because dogs don't whine and complain like humans. Canines have no way to tell you when something hurts. You must OBSERVE them and watch for the signs listed above. Other signs of pain are panting and trembling. Do your pup, that has served as your loyal companion for years, a favor and take him or her for a senior exam and let a professional decide if your dog needs some medication to help them be comfortable.
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Š speedo101
My senior dog is not in pain although she limps from arthritis.
believe, but some people don't like dogs or are actually afraid due to a bad experience. Keep your dogs away from others unless they show a desire to meet your pup. Even though we all think our dogs is the greatest and can't imagine that others don't agree, it's bad manners to let your dog into other's space.
Pet Peeves
Want To Drive Your Pet Care Provider Crazy? Here's How! We gave our sponsors a chance to vent their frustrations with pet owners while remaining diplomatic and anonymous. We talked to groomers, veterinarians, boarding facilities and trainers to see what it is that pet owners do that frustrates them. Do you see yourself in this list?
Irritated Trainers ❖
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Many owners just let their dogs have full run of the house and furniture with no rules or boundaries. So, the young pups just try to figure it out for themselves. They make their own games, potty where the owner won't find it, chew on the furniture....and the owner wonders what they did wrong! Expecting miracles when a dog owner brings in a dog with lots of bad habits. The dog did not get this way overnight and a trainer can't fix it quickly. Plus, the owner has to be part of the process because it won't help the situation at home if the dog only responds to the trainer. Not practicing - it takes practice to instill good behavior habits. Owners coming in for training but they have already consulted Google and think they have all of the answers. Owners not training or socializing their puppy soon enough. It's not ok to wait until they are six months old before training. All that does is instill bad habits. Start as soon as you get the dog! "My dog is the alpha. He acts that way, because he’s dominant.” Don't excuse the dog's behavior. Dominance is not a personality trait in animals but a dynamic, fluid relationship between individuals in response to variables and resources Forcing a dog into submission (alpha rolls) can harm trust and increase aggression.
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and need them to be "present". Don't take the call in the exam room please! The Procrastinator - these are the pet owners that come in just before closing on the weekend with a vomiting pet that has been sick for three days but they are just now addressing the
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problem. Absentee Owner - It's hard enough to get a medical history on an animal because they can't talk, and it's even harder when someone other than the primary owner brings the pet in for the appointment and they don't really have
Veterinarian Venting ❖
Cell Phone-itis - Clients that talk on their cell phone during the appointment while we are examining their pet Houston PetTalk Magazine
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first-hand knowledge of the issues. People that get offended when the veterinary staff restrains their pet. I can see why they may get offended but they need to realize we are trained to handle animals properly and it's for everyone's safety. Money Over Medicine - Too often, I hear: "I don't think it's necessary for you to run the tests, just give me a prescription. Or, he only has diarrhea so just give him medicine." There is only one GOOD way to diagnose many afflictions and that is through tests. Diarrhea can be caused by a multitude of maladies and guessing at the culprit is not an option. We are not running tests to "get more money from you". We are running tests to administer proper medical care which we vowed to do by taking the veterinary oath. The Roadblocker - the pet owner "hires" us to be their experts, then everything is No... No, my pet is not fat. No, my pet’s teeth don't need cleaned. No, he’s too old for surgery. No, spaying her will make her fat...etc. Medication Mishaps - Clients that stop medications before they are supposed to or owners that are embarrassed to admit they cannot medicate their pet and so they just don't do it. If medicating is a problem, we can help. There
Boarding Beefs ❖
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When owners let their dogs run off leash around the lobby (and sometimes pee) or jump on the counter and knock everything over. It’s unsafe for both people and the dogs, but they just don’t realize it. Don't assume that just because your pet became ill while boarding that it is the fault of the boarding facility. A pet could have contracted something just before boarding, eaten something they shouldn't have before boarding and veterinarians will tell you that just the stress of being away from home will cause some animals to have digestive issues. And, even the cleanest of facilities may have a customer come into the facility with fleas, etc. so always put preventative medicine on before boarding your pet.
are other options to make sure the pet gets their meds. Wild & Free Felines - Cat owners that don't bring their cat to the vet in a carrier.
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An owner walks in with a dog that is pelted, not matted but PELTED and says, "Can you give my dog a puppy cut and keep the hair a little long?" No, we cannot because you've neglected to groom your dog for so long that there is NO choice but to shave it. Owners that are insistent their pet be groomed by 2pm and we rush to make the deadline and they show up at 6pm. How many times have I heard, "Oh, my
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Don't Want To Be A Bonehead? Don't Do These Things... ❖
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pet won't bite. He may nip a little." That means I'm going to get bit. A lot of pet owners do not understand that regular grooming is what keeps your pet looking good. Some people brush and bath at home and then bring their pet in once a year and expect a miracle. Owners that want to hang around while their pet is being groomed. That would be ok except for the fact the pet may squirm to get to their owner the whole time which makes grooming a bit difficult.
Allowing your dog to commit a bullying offense at the dogpark such as snarling, mounting, toy guarding, etc. Some owners are on cell phones or other gadgets while still others sit on a bench and yell “Fido! Stop, Stop, Fido Don’t! Fido Come back!” Buy a dog from a flea market, the newspaper or a pet shop. You will only serve to encourage bad breeders and puppy mills. Reputable breeders will not be selling pets through these avenues. There are reputable breeders so do your homework or rescue a pet from a shelter or breed specific rescue. Allowing your dog to jump on others. It's not cute, it's rude. Allowing your dog to be off leash and run up to other dogs or people. Some people don't want to pet your dog and
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some are actually afraid of dogs. Allowing your dog to be too far away on leash so that you trip others. If your dog is on a long leash and you are walking at a public park, keep the leash short. Don't run with your pet during the hot months between 10am and 6pm. Too many pets die needlessly from heat exhaustion and by the time you realize it's happening, it's often too late. It may be obvious but they are wearing a fur coat. Getting rid of a pet for any of these reasons: Moving, getting married, pregnant, doesn't match the furniture, tired of the barking, want a different breed. You love your pet right? Then why feed them really bad food? Check the ingredients. If the first ingredient is not a meat source (chicken, beef, fish), don't buy it. If you cannot afford proper veterinary care, don't get a pet.
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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.
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Summer Shopping Guide
LET IT FLOW Watering on the go is easy with this shatterproof, BPA-free bottle that has a specially insulated wrap to keep water cool, but can be taken off and snapped into a portable water bowl to keep your dog hydrated any time anywhere. Get yours at www.DOOGusa.com
DON'T BUG ME! The Holistic Home Company presents Dog Bud Repellent to keep the bugs away and your dog happy! The repellent combines Geranium, Sweet Orange and Cedarwood to create a powerful flea and tick repellent that is natural and safe to use on your dog. Find it at www.theholisticdogcompany.com.
HOT DOG? GET A COOL BED For the doggies on the go, this portable cot is raised off the ground to keep your pet comfy and dry on outdoor excursions. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfect for camping, traveling, beach trips or resting by the pool and helps your pet stay above muddy, hot or wet surfaces. The Smart Air-Flow mesh lets cool air flow through and prevents water pooling that can cause hot spots or skin irritations. 42 www.houstonpettalk.com Available at www.chewy.com.
GOT STYLE? Inspired by a mutual respect for the ocean, United By Blue joined forces with conservation non-profit Lonely Whale to create a print that celebrates the water and the whales that call it home. These ultra-soft, 100% organic cotton bandanas are perfect for the dog in your life who deserves to get more than a few glancing stares. Available at www. unitedbyblue.com.
ON THE GO For the traveling pet, collapsible bowls make feeding and watering simple with an easy to clean, non-toxic, waterproof and leak proof lining and can hold up to 32 fluid ounces each. The 4-cup capacity makes it a great choice for larger pets! Available at www.houzz.com.
GOT WATER? Petmate's continuous fresh flowing water fountain adds oxygen to water to help keep it cool for pets. Available at www.houzz. com.
Never Stop Chasing Your Summer SRUB-A-DUB
FOR THE LOVE OF CATS: LET'S DRINK! This beautiful, handmade ceramic water fountain by Wet Whiskers Fountains is designed to offer water to cats, who are known for their low thirst drive, a filtered water source that is continually circulated by a quiet, low voltage electric pump. The fountains come in a variety of shapes and colors for any home decor. What a purr-fect way to get your finicky kitty to drink by supplying moving water while also bringing style to your home. Get yours at www.wetwhiskersfountains.com.
The world’s first wearable combination sprayer-scrubber that can be turned on and off by simply making a fist. Stay in total control over your pet and the flow of water during the entire bathing process. Simply 'Click' ON and 'Click' OFF one-handed. Every Aquapaw includes adapters to shower or garden hose. Available at www.aquapaw.com.
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Ruff Stuff
Pool Safety ESCAPE HATCH A wildlife biologist has created the innovative FrogLog to stop unfortunate small animals from drowning in your backyard swimming pool. Once a frog, mouse, or other small animal falls into a pool, they will bump into the FrogLog, climb onto the floating platform, up the mesh ramp, and exit the pool. The FrogLog can be placed anywhere around the pool deck and offers a quick escape route for animals. Save some creatures and get yours at www.froglog.us.
BE ALARMED Even if pets can swim, they often struggle to find the steps to get out of the pool. The Safety Turtle 2.0 Pool Alarm Pet Kit is a pool alarm system designed for your pet’s safety. It comes with three distinct parts: a “Turtle” attachment for your pet’s collar, a base alarm, and a USB cord/wall adapter. The system is easy to use: secure the Turtle to your pet’s collar, set the base within 200 feet of the pool and plug it in. Find yours at www.safetyturtle.com.
LIFEGUARD
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Keep your furriest mate safe with the Paws Aboard Lifeguard Neoprene Dog Life Jacket. Made for dogs and owners who love water sports, this life jacket provides incredible buoyancy to keep dogs safe while out for a swim or a day on the boat. Featuring an advanced breathable mesh underbelly, the innovative design promotes proper draining and drying, while the neoprene material helps with temperature control. And with a bright red color and reflective strip, you can easily keep an eye on your nauti-dog. Purchase at www.chewys.com. www.houstonpettalk.com
Health HOW DO I get rid of my fleas please? Tips From an Emergency Care Doctor
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leas are some pretty annoying pests to deal with, and more importantly, they can affect the health and wellbeing of your pets. Fleas generally prefer four-legged hosts to humans. However, if your family pet has fleas, it’s likely that your yard, house, and furniture will be targeted next. If you want to get rid of these pesky little critters, you need more than just some simple tips on bathing your dog. Fighting a flea infestation isn't a one-anddone battle, it's a war that could take days, weeks and maybe months. Why? It’s thanks to the flea's life cycle, its abilities and habits. It's not an easy job, but here's a few ideas you can use to get rid of them.
KILLING FLEAS AT THE SOURCE It makes no sense to treat the entire house if your pet is going to keep bringing fleas in. Most flea infestations stem from our pets so the first step is treating the source of the problem as soon as possible.
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Flea Bath: You’ll want to get a flea treatment meant for your type of pet and follow the directions on the package. Flea Powder: Powders can be purchased that will kill fleas. These flea killers need to be specifically formulated for your pet, and they can be very helpful. After the bath, rubbing flea powder into the coat of your animal will help. Flea Collar: A flea collar is designed to repel fleas and cause them to die or move to the tail and fall off. Flea Control: There are tablets that kill fleas over the short-term. There are also flea treatments that contain a flea poison that absorb into the animal’s blood stream to kill ticks and fleas.
THE HOUSE If your pet has mature fleas, your home can become a nursery. This means that you have to tackle the problem from all angles in order to truly eradicate the infestation. Some people use a flea bomb, which almost guarantees the entire eradication of the flea population, but an insecticide is not a flea control you want to cover your home with if it’s not a necessity. This is a method that will distribute a
By: Dr. Laura Noaker vergi247.com
poison to kill the fleas. So you may want to choose an alternative method or be sure to follow the instructions and leave the home for a time as directed. Either way, use a powerful vacuum on floors, upholstery, mattresses and cushions. Cracks are usually good hiding places for fleas, eggs, larvae, and cocoons. Use a vacuum with a bag so you don’t have contact with its contents. A steam cleaner is another excellent method for carpets and upholstery, including pet beds. The combination of high heat and soap is the enemy of fleas in all stages of life. Don’t forget to wash all bedding, especially your pet’s, in hot water. Dry it at the highest heat setting. If the infestation is severe, consider getting rid of old bedding. Unfortunately you're not out of the woods yet. The problem could stem from your own yard, especially if you live in a heavily shaded area, have crawl spaces where wildlife and feral strays might sleep or sheltered enclosures such as dog houses. A good way to test your outdoor flea problem is to put on a pair of long, white socks. Walk around slowly, the fleas will jump on and can be easily identified thanks to the black-on-white contrast. If treatment is necessary, residual insecticide and growth regulators are sometimes applied. Treatment should always be handled according to directions on the label, and is always best left to a pest management professional. This will help ensure that you, your pets and your family remain safe and bite-free while enjoying the outdoors. For more flea prevention ideas, we recommend that you contact your primary veterinarian.
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PET Cremation
An Environmentally Aware Alternative
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s a leader in pet aftercare, Last Wishes is bringing the future of the industry here to Houston – a gentle, eco-friendly method of water-based cremation called aquamation. Families can make a lasting contribution to the environment on behalf of their loved one by making a decision that saves energy and reduces pollution. Offered as an alternative to traditional flame-based cremation, aquamation (also known as alkaline hydrolysis) is an emerging form of pet aftercare now available to eco-mindful families seeking newer, cleaner, gentler options. “I learned about aquamation for pets for the very first time in 2013 at a veterinary conference in Denver, Colorado”, says Dr. Christie Cornelius, certified hospice & palliative care veterinarian and founder of Last Wishes. “Intrigued by its gentle process, efficiency and environmental benefits, I began to think about how I could bring this new service to our pet-loving community in Houston.” Aquamation is a process of reduction using flowing water, temperature, and alkalinity. This method simply accelerates the natural process that takes place after a body is buried in the soil. Immediately after the aquamation process is complete, the ash is a light sage green color because it retains the minerals of the bone and it is clean and free of carbon discoloration. The bone ash is allowed to dry for 48-72 hours in a warm, dehumidified environment. Finally, as with flame-based cremation, the bones ash is processed into a fine powder and carefully packaged specific to each family’s request for memorialization.
THE BENEFITS OF AQUAMATION INCLUDE: ❖
Zero emissions – no harmful greenhouse gases produced
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Low energy consumption 1/10 the carbon footprint than flamebased cremation 20% more ashes returned for families who request them Ashes are 100% clean, disease and pollutant free No RNA or DNA left (sterile process) All prostheses survive, even plastic does not break down You can safely scatter remains
Cost is similar to standard flame-based cremation Last Wishes provides gentle transport of deceased pets from veterinary clinics in their service area to their facility at no charge. A member of the Last Wishes compassionate staff will assist in coordinating every detail with each family and their veterinarian. After the aquamation process is complete, the family then has the option of picking up their loved one at ❖
The Last Wishes pet loss group meets every other Wednesday evening at 3036 Antoine Dr. in Houston. This group is moderated by mental health specialist, Marilyn Ladin, LCSW, DCSW, CART. Last Wishes or they will provide delivery back to the family’s veterinarian at no charge. If a pet’s family and veterinarian agree that an in-clinic euthanasia is not possible for the pet, or that it would be too stressful for the pet, a Last Wishes veterinarian can visit the family home for an in-home euthanasia, after which the veterinarian and Last Wishes staff will carefully transport the pet back to Last Wishes for aquamation. Last Wishes can also accommodate private viewings and memorial celebrations in comfortable, peaceful rooms that feel like home. An additional benefit for the bereaved pet’s family is the offering of our pet loss group that meets every other Wednesday evening at the center, located at 3036 Antoine Dr. in Houston, TX. This group is moderated by mental health specialist, Marilyn Ladin, LCSW, DCSW, CART. The Last Wishes Aquamation catalog, which can be found on their website at lastwishes.com/services/aquamation, features many beautiful urns and keepsakes to choose from. Clay paw prints, ink paw and nose prints, paw print flower paintings, and stepping stones are some
of the unique items offered by the staff of Last Wishes. They are also honored to help any family with special or custom requests when it comes to memorializing your special friend. Families who do not wish to have the ashes returned to them have the option of having them scattered at their memorial garden in Cypress, TX. “Since we at Last Wishes believe what you believe – our beloved pets are family – we know that aftercare is an important part of saying goodbye”, explains Cornelius. “Our wish is to provide families with the opportunity to honor their pet while honoring the earth. By choosing aquamation, your pet never leaves the care of Last Wishes. Our wonderfully compassionate team will help with all of the arrangements, down to the very last detail. Your confidence and trust in us is most important; taking care of your family’s needs is our number one priority.” For more information about this wonderful eco-friendly service, please visit their website at lastwishes.com or you may e-mail Last Wishes direct at wecare@ lastwishes.com. Members of the petloving community are always welcome to schedule a tour of the Last Wishes center by calling 713-452-0474.
DOGGIE H
O
WALKS
U
S
T
O
N
Insured & Bonded,
Professional In-Home
PET SITTER & DOG WALKER Servicing Central West Houston from Memorial City to the Heights
832.229.8095 WWW.DOGGIEWALKSHOUSTON.COM CONTACT@DOGGIEWALKSHOUSTON.COM Houston PetTalk Magazine
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IT’S A CAT-ASTROPHE! Felines and Emergency Care
Y
ou’ve probably heard that spring comes “in like a lion and out like a lamb”, but have you thought that this is true of our pets’ health as well? Our furry friends’ conditions can change quickly with an apparent sudden illness or accident developing, and there’s no way to forecast an issue’s onset! Families need to be prepared for the potential of urgent veterinary care at any time day or night, particularly with our felines. Before seeking emergency care for your cute kitty, recognizing that an issue is even present can be the toughest hurdle. Cats tend to display subtle signs of trouble, including sleeping more, hiding in new areas of the home, or change their litter box habits which may accidentally be dismissed as a miss of the litter pan. Routine veterinary exams are the best way to allow for early detection of issues sneaking up on your companion. Diagnostic testing allows for early diagnosis and a chance to take cover with quick treatment of issues. Common reasons our purr-fect housemates need urgent medical attention include urinary tract disease, heart disease, diabetes, kidney failure, foreign
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body ingestion, and asthma or bronchitis flare ups. Our felines are especially prone to urinary tract health issues that may be beyond your control at home, due to genetic risks and dietary factors. Far too often, our feline friends become obstructed and need emergent care. Cats with urinary obstruction will tend to strain to urinate, may urinate blood or simply choose an odd location to relieve themselves such as a corner rug or bathtub. Heart disease is a si-
lent illness with often no apparent outward symptoms as it develops, such as the calm before the storm including fluid on lungs or even a blood clot leading to sudden hind-end paralysis. Cats demonstrating extreme weakness and
By: Jennifer Hennessey, DVM, CVJ Animal ER of Northwest Houston
who have a history of excessive thirst need to be evaluated and could have issues related to underlying kidney failure or even diabetes. All of these issues need prompt care and attention. To add to the puddle of possibilities, our curious cats are attracted to string-like toys and their curiosity may lead them to develop a foreign body from ingestion. Early on, a foreign body may affect appetite or cause vomiting, but sadly can be fatal if untreated. Cats showing fast breathing rates, including open mouth breathing at rest, should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible; underlying, progressive lung issues including springtime airway asthma could be lurking. A trip to the veterinary emergency room includes a complete exam with consultation, the chance to consider testing of internal health and the opportunity to start treatment. Urgent care needs may include outpatient care options, but often may come with the encouragement for hospitalization and aggressive medical support, allowing your pet care team to tend directly to your furry feline by the minute. A minor issue can become a cat-astrophe quickly for your pet and your wallet, when care is delayed.
Keep your felines on the prowl for years to come by maintaining a routine care plan that includes regular visits to the vet office and when in doubt, seek emergency attention. Your veterinarian can be your shelter and umbrella helping you and the family weather the storm and find answers to help secure your pet’s well-being.
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TOO HOT To Trot
Summer Heat Precautions
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SIGNS OF HEAT STROKE: Heavy panting, hyperventilation (deep breathing) Increased salivation early then dry gums as the heat prostration progresses. Weakness, confusion or inattention, vomiting or diarrhea and sometimes bleeding. As the condition progresses towards heat stroke, there may be obvious paleness or
1. Cool them with cool or tepid water rather than really cold water. 2. If ice packs are available apply to areas where circulation is very good, such as the “armpits” or neck. 3. As soon as you see signs of regaining some comfort, go to your veterinarian. Dogs who suffer from heat stroke can develop delayed complications including death if they are not properly monitored.
FOR THE BIRDS: If you have a bird living outdoors in an aviary, hot weather can play a factor in their well being also. Food left outdoors can spoil and water can grow bacteria. Feed early in the morning then remove the food after a few hours and change water twice a day.
WHAT ABOUT CATS? What About cats? Cats are a unique! They can “climb” their way out of fenced areas, find shade and water, etc. We contacted a veterinarian that said he had never seen heat stroke in a cat in 30 years of practice. Felines are great survivalists…but this doesn’t mean they should be neglected or made to find fresh water!
FOR THE CURIOUS: WHAT EXACTLY IS “DOG DAYS OF SUMMER”?
graying to the gums, shallowing of the breathing efforts and eventually slowed or absent breathing efforts, vomiting and diarrhea that may be bloody and finally seizures or coma.
WHAT TO DO: If your pet experiences these serious signs of heat stroke:
The phrase “dog days of summer” actually comes from the “heavens”. The brightest of stars in Canis Major (the big dog) is Sirius, which also happens to be the brightest star in the night sky. In the summer, Sirius, the “dog star,” rises and sets with the sun. During late July, Sirius is in conjunction with the sun, and the ancients believed that its heat added to the heat of the sun, creating a stretch of hot and sultry weather. They named this period of time “dog days” after the dog star.
Illustration by Desiree Lonsway
O
h, the dog days of summer! Hot temperatures make for hot dogs…so know what do, what not to do, and what telltale signs to look for in understanding if your pet is ready for a meltdown. Exercise your dog in the early morning or late evening hours. The intense summer heat from 10am to 6pm is too hot for any activity that increases the heart rate. Pets can get sunburned too, and your pet may require sunscreen on his or her nose and ear tips. Pets with light-colored noses or light-colored fur on their ears are particularly vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer. Never leave your pet in a parked car. Even cracked windows won’t protect your pet from overheating or suffering from heat stroke during hot summer days. If your dog or cat is out during the day, remember that asphalt and concrete can get very hot and burn their pads. Always have shelter available to protect them from extreme temperatures and inclement weather. Be aware that older and overweight pets, as well as flat-faced breeds such as Persian cats, Pugs and Bulldogs, are more likely to overheat in hot weather. Provide your pet with fresh, cool water every day in a tip-proof bowl. Keep your pet well groomed, but resist the temptation to shave off all of his hair in an effort to keep him cool. Your pet’s coat will protect him from getting sunburned. A matted coat traps in the heat, attracts parasites and can cause skin sores.
Website
Go Fetch
Houston PetTalk Magazine
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A BIRDS EYE View Boarding Your Feathered Friend
C
an someone tell me why there are tons of “pet resorts” popping up everywhere primarily for the benefit of dogs but there doesn’t seem to be many “bird resorts”? I would certainly like to be spoiled with “room to roam”, playtime, televisions, executive suites, swimming pools and nature walks. However, my practical side (if your name is Harry, you have to be practical) knows that some of these amenities just aren’t feasible for birds in order to keep us from “flying the coup” or finding another avenue for our own demise! But from a bird’s eye view, there are some things we definitely want for our
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staycation if we must be left behind for the family vacation. Pity would be number one. Then, after everyone feels sufficiently bad for leaving us, there are some practical matters that would make our stay more enjoyable. First, is our diet. Everyone would agree that bad food would add insult to injury after being left with strangers! Bird owners should work with the boarding facility to discuss the right seed mixture (usually provided by the owner), and other dietary needs. For instance, is the bird allowed to have raw veggies? Cooked protein? Pumpkin seeds? Etc. Because the owner is uniquely aware of the bird’s individual
By: Harry the Canary
needs, it’s important that any information on diet, habits, likes, dislikes, etc. be communicated to the facility. After diet, it also important to us feathered creatures to be in a safe cage. It must be secure (we can be pretty tricky at picking locks and latches) and the gauge of wire must be strong enough to withstand our “abuse” should we decide to make this our pastime. Next, we want to be around people so make sure we get prime real estate in the boarding facility. I have a cousin who demands the front office but for those of us with a little more humility, something where people and other birds are will do. Fresh water, toys and a clean cage are also elements of a happy stay away from home. Temperature control is also something to take note of - we don’t get plush fleece beds like some of our four legged friends so remember we don’t like drafts (nor do we want to be drafted…we’ll leave wartime heroism to the dogs). On a serious health note, pay special attention to the health requirements of the boarding facility. I hate to admit that we birds carry contagious diseases, but it’s a plight of most species. The boarding facility should require a bird be tested for Psittacosis, current vaccinations and perhaps other tests for different types of birds. The last item I would highlight is to look for a facility that has a staff trained to notice the nuances of a bird’s behavior. If I arrive with great looking feathers and two days later half of them are at the bottom of my cage, I am not honing my strip tease skills. I am stressed and someone needs to figure out why. Perhaps it’s my diet, my location or bad breadth from my caretaker….that’s the thing with us birds, we get to do lots of strange things and watch you humans try to figure it out!
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
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Social Media CONTESTS
FUNNIEST PHOTOS
BEST SPORTS PHOTO
SWEETEST PHOTO
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S
ocial Media Mania has taken over PetTalk's Doghouse on the Web! What started as a way to give out free tickets to the Houston Dog Show, turned into a multi-day posting palooza, with each day offering up a new theme for our PetTalk Pack to share their pet's photo The submissions were creative, plentiful and made us smile..we bet they will do the same for you, so we wanted to share the joy!
COMING SOON!
DOG LODGE RADIO: Animal Issues That Matter INTERNET TALK RADIO/PODCAST
Can be watched and heard on www.doglodge.org, ITunes & YouTube
Elaine Rosen Host
MISSION OF DOG LODGE SANCTUARY: To provide a forever home for special needs dogs who are seniors and/or have other disabilities. PURPOSE OF DOG LODGE RADIO: To be an engaged partner in the animal welfare community and highlight, promote, and give other animal welfare organizations or businesses the platform they otherwise might not have to discuss a wide variety of animal welfare issues. SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE:
Stacy Sutton Kerby Co-Host
Segment Sponsor (4 Spots) $200 per show/non-profit rate: $150 per show Read Ad Sponsor (4 Spots) $150 per show/non-profit rate: $100 per show Product Placement Sponsor (1 Exclusive per Show) $100 per show/non-profit rate: $75 Mentions: (Open) $50 per show/non-profit rate: $25
For questions, place ads and more please contact Rick Bousquet at (806) 584-6025 or rickb@doglodge.org. Houston PetTalk Magazine
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Revealed RESCUE
RECYCLED POMS HOUSTON
R
ecycled Poms Houston is a small 501(c)3 Pomeranian Rescue Group that fosters in homes throughout the Houston, Metroplex. They are dedicated to locating, fostering, vetting, and placing dogs in forever loving homes. RPH rescues from puppy mills, owner surrenders, hoarders, lost and abandoned dogs on death row at local shelters and a few dogs found roaming the streets. They house, feed, rehabilitate, socialize, exercise, and perform any necessary medical surgeries needed. Since their inception in 2007., RPH has rescued and placed over 1000 Pomeranians.
BELL & MISS PEPPER Bell was an owner surrender who weighs in at 9 lbs. and she is a youngster at just 3 yrs. old. She is a sweetheart and easy to love right back - she is happy in a warm lap and loves attention! She is good with other dogs, cats and older children. The hair loss on her back is getting better, but the cause is still unknown. Bell says "If you are ready to love me and keep me, please contact Norma at recycledpoms@ suddenlink.net." Next up is Miss Pepper who was saved from the Montgomery County Shelter. At 8 yrs. old, Miss Pepper has lots of good years left in her but she needs to lose about 6 lbs. so her new owner must be impervious to those pleading eyes that say "Can I have a treat please?" She loves walks, lap time and sleeping in the bed. Miss Pepper deserves a second chance to show off her sweet spirit. If you are interested in learning more about her, please contact Norma at recycledpoms@suddenlink.net
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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Bell
Miss Pepper
Meet your new best friend at ADORE Houston.
WWW.ADOREHOUSTON.ORG
INFO@ADOREHOUSTON.ORG
Lockets of Love
Custom locket tags that fit you and your dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personality. facebook.com/badgepops Houston PetTalk Magazine
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A Trip to
W
ith the Gulf less than an hour from Houston, you and your pooch can have some summer fun and unwind in the sea air. No plane rides, no long car rides…just relaxation, good food, long beach walks, pet-friendly accommodations and plenty of entertainment. One of the star attractions is the Galveston Pleasure Pier. This $60 million dollar development brings to mind the Santa Monica Pier or Chicago's Navy Pier, so don't miss the rides, the games and the fabulous view. If you prefer the comforts of home, Sand 'N Sea Properties offers many petfriendly beach homes for rent. Located at the entrance to Pirates Beach, Sand 'N Sea Properties has been renting vacation homes on the island for over 40 years and today manages approximately 155 vacation homes. Upon arrival, vacationing canine family members receive a special gift and the "parents" receive a copy of Sand 'N Sea's "Tips for Vacationing Pets," which
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includes practical advice for humans and their faithful companions to ensure that an enjoyable experience is had by all while visiting the island. Here are a few things to know before you go: ❖ Sand 'N Sea allows a maximum of two small dogs at each pet-friendly beach house. ❖ Visit www.sandnsea.com for a list of pet-friendly properties. ❖ A $150 non-refundable pet fee is added to each reservation in a petfriendly property. ❖ Repair and/or cleaning fees will be charged if a pet damages or soils a property. Other pet-friendly options include La Quinta, Candlewood and Best Western on the Seawall (always check hotel policies before your trip, as policies are subject to change). For some fun in the sun with your pet, the beach is always a winner for a great game of fetch in the surf. Remember, dogs need sunscreen too, depending
on their coat type, etc. If you enjoy sports with your 4-legger, sea kayaking is a good option, with kayaks available for rent at www.galvestonboatrentals. com. Next, take a stroll along the historic Strand shopping district and if your dog is well-behaved, a carriage ride is uber relaxing! For the super-social, visit Lindale Park, Galveston’s official dog park located at 45th and Marine. As much as dogs love hanging with us, they love a good romp with another canine too. If you are a pet lover, you most likely love animals in general, so be sure to visit Moody Gardens where you'll find new animal exhibits. Visitors can check out penguins, river otters, seals, sea life and more. You can even purchase group private encounters. With such a gem just 50 miles away, there's no reason to miss out on the joy the beach brings...go have a ball (and throw one for your pup too)!
All photos supplied by Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau except where noted.
Summer Fun Just 50 Miles Away!
Moody Gardens
Photo by Sand 'N Sea Properties
Pleasure Pier
Sand Nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Sea Pet Friendly Rental:
Hooligan Island
Riley, Kinnick & Penny
Charlotte
All dog photos supplied by indicated owners.
PetTalk readers submitted photos of their pets having fun in the Galveston surf!
Jax
Bunny
Arnie & Eydie Houston PetTalk Magazine
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CONSERVATION Corner As appreciative supporters of nature and wildlife, we at Houston PetTalk want to promote education and conservation of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 elephant conservation. Look for other upcoming conservation stories so that you too can help save a species.
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L
ess than a year after the Houston Zoo welcomed Asian elephant calf Joy, a new kid is on the block! On Sunday, June 17, 35-year-old Asian elephant Tess gave birth to a 345-pound baby girl, named Tilly by the elephant team. This is the third calf for Tess, who is also mother to Tucker
By: Lauren St. Pierre, Houston Zoo, and Dr. Nurzhafarina Othman
Photos, courtesy Houston Zoo
CARING FOR ELEPHANTS IN HOUSTON AND BORNEO
and Tupelo and raises the number of elephants in the Houston Zoo herd to ten. Guests can visit the elephant herd at the McNair Asian Elephant Habitat, where theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see the females and young elephants in the first yard. This is where guests can see baby Tilly, followed closely by her mom
and older sister, Tupelo. Tupelo was also seen caring for baby Joy when she was born last year, and she has now taken over as protective big sister to Tilly. The boys can be seen in the second yard, usually swimming and cooling off in the large 160,000-gallon pool. Caring for this herd of ten elephants is no easy task. A team of 12 dedicated and passionate Zookeepers, plus several veterinarians and vet technicians, at the Houston Zoo work around the clock to provide meals, enrichment, and state-ofthe-art medical care to the elephants. Luckily, the entire elephant team is steadfast in their commitment to connect communities with animals and inspire action to save wildlife.
The care for these majestic animals is not only prevalent in Houston, but all around the world. One global wildlife conservationist and extended zoo family member, Dr. Nurzhafarina (Farina) Othman, is working in Asia to ensure the survival of Bornean elephants. Farina is a Malaysian scientist whose fieldwork is focused on gaining a better understanding of Bornean elephant habitat needs. She is studying the elephants’ migratory patterns through the Kinabatangan River range. Elephants require large amounts of land to live; when that land is turned into farms or plantations, the elephants sometimes move through the crops to get to more habitat. “Elephants are not moving through palm oil
plantations to raid crops, but they are using it to reconnect to their surrounding habitat because the corridors that have been left for them are too small,” says Farina. Land use and development are extremely important in this region and Farina’s study is helping local communities and government agencies reduce the conflict surrounding elephants needing to cut through local crops and plantations to get back to the river. She is working with palm oil plantations to find solutions for wildlife as well as helping with the Borneo tourism industry of which elephants are a large draw for the local economy. Farina’s work helps protect elephant families in the wild, like the herd at the zoo. When a baby elephant is
born, all the females band together to help raise the young. They are all there for each other, in the wild and at the zoo. “I’m doing this for our future generations,” continues Farina.
You can help save elephants in the wild, and support Farina’s work, simply by visiting the Houston Zoo. When you see the elephants at the zoo, you help save them in the wild!
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Waiting ... For Yop u soon!
Pick me u
Your new best friend is waiting... Adopt a schnauzer, and save a life!
www.SchnauzerRescueTexas.me
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