November 2018

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& PET DIRECTORY

The Definitive Source for Houston Pet Lovers

November 2018

Houston SaberCats

//Also Inside:

Holiday Shopping Guide Rehab for Disc Disease Intro to Pet Hospice

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promote adoption with Houston Humane Society

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November 2018

Editorial

W

hat a difference a year makes! This time last year we were dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey and it was hard to even think about the upcoming Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. I was displaced from my home along with kids and pets, my house was a mess and I was in total disarray in my work life because my office was gone. Thankfully, my house is put back together and some semblance of order is back. I get to actually look forward to my favorite time of year - gathering with friends and family, preparing big holiday meals, enjoying the cooler weather and fresh air. During the Fall and Winter, I am much more active regarding walking my dogs and I enjoy the time with my horse Freedom when it’s not so hot and sticky outside.

Sadly, our family recently lost our little 3 lb. Yorkie-mix, Sake, who we were blessed to have in our lives for 13 years.

There was quite a personality in that little body and she rallied to the end but unfortunately, she wasn’t able to fend off her illness and we were put in the

Issue 10: Volume 18 www.houstonpettalk.com

position that so many of us are, to decide their fate via euthanasia. I loved that little cute dog, even though she frustrated me with her potty habits..on my floor LOL! She is missed for sure in our house and she brought so much joy and laughter to our home that I wanted to give her a little tribute, see page 62. Many of you have experienced the same sad loss and although it’s very difficult to lose our pets, it’s worth the love we get from them for as long as they are by our side.

This issue's feature story wll appeal to the sports fans out there. If you love sports, you’ll be thrilled to know we have another professional team in Houston, the Houston SaberCats. Quite an interesting, thrilling sport, rugby has come to the Bayou City and I encourage you to go check out a game. I attended my first match at the invitation of the SaberCats and I had a blast! It’s fast-paced and kind of a conglomeration of several sports all in one. And, the players are not only super-friendly, they are also easy on the eye LOL! We invited the team to help us promote adoptable animals from

Houston Humane Society, who recently took in hundreds of animals from several seizures, so they truly need some media attention to get the word out about the awesome adoptables at the shelter. We had lots of laughs at the shoot and the guys really fell in love with the animals so much so that it resulted in an adoption!

We also asked the 3 cover players to give us a peek into their personal life and introduce us to their pets as well. Check out the team, the adoptables and more about Houston Humane Society in our feature story and definitely plan to catch a game in the upcoming season!

November also features our annual Holiday Gift Guide with lots of cool gifts for both two-leggers and four-leggers. It’s that time of year to start checking your shopping list and finding just the right gift for the pet or pet lover in your life. As always, we hope you will shop with our sponsors who in turn, are great supporters of Houston’s animal community.

Looking For Love Ok, girls...we are not talking about the guys on the cover (although they are quite handsome:)...we are talking about the adorable adoptables from Houston Humane Society that are in need of a home.

And, it's not just dogs and cats! The Houston SaberCats joined up with PetTalk to promote adoption and give us a chance to tell you all about Houston's newest sports team.

Learn more in our feature!

Photo By: Evin Thayer

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

Tell our advertisers you heard about them in Houston PetTalk!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Machu Picchu Mirella and Randall Aram climbed to the top of this iconic site with their PetTalk!

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Henrietta: 1. We are approaching a time in which I get to eat Turkey with Stuffing twice - Thanksgiving and Christmas!!!!!

2. I’m not a Turkey.

3. Netflix

4. Fortune cookies that predict how my stunning mind will change the world.

5. Videos of cats not sticking their landing and busting their kitty butts.

6. Siri’s voice can be changed. She’s annoying. I kinda like the Australian dude.

7. Dragon Lady hasn’t found my stash of computer-altered photos of her.

That would be an ugly day.

Maybe even my last day.

8. Everyone who adopted a pet from a shelter or rescue and also didn’t take it back but found a way to love him or her and make it work.

9. Dairy Queen’s entire menu.

when she misses the $3 Puckered Pooch special!

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Henrietta Illustration by Jim Tweedy, Colorizing by Desiree Lonsway

10. The days they change the Yappy Hour at the Salty Dog without telling Penelope. She gets so mad

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his “Houston Strong” themed, 7th Annual, event was held at Goode Co.’s Armadillo Palace where an amazing turnout of guests, officers and K9s enjoyed a festive evening of BBQ and bidding benefiting the non-profit that gives trained K9s to law enforcement agencies and schools worldwide. We love our human and K9 heroes of Houston!

Constable Alan Rosen- Harris County Pct 1, K9s4COPs Founder Kristi Schiller, K9s4COPs Board Member Judge Robert Eckels

Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Jack Cagle with Officers from Harris County Constable Precinct 4

Co-Chairs Lori Sarofim, Melissa Juneau, Laurie Krohn

Linda Kinney and Auction Chair Sara Marie Kinney

Honorees Jim "Mattress Mack" McIngvale and Constable Alan Rosen

K9 Award Winners Top Narcotics SeizedHandler Jaime Garcia and K9 Asha

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Photos By Daniel Ortiz

Sgt Christopher Moore, K9 Ziko, Co-Chair and K9s4COPs Board Member Laurie Krohn

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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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

11.03.18

PawCasso

Grand Central Park Lake House 715 Camp Strake Rd. Conroe, 77304 8:00am-12:00pm Participate in a dog walk, a chance to “raise the ruff” at an after “paw-ty” featuring a pup kissing booth, Houston Disc Dogs, music, contests, vendors, food trucks, face painting and more. grandcentralparktx.com

Urban Tails 1618 Webster Street 77003 2:00pm-4:30pm PawCasso is a dog-friendly, unique painting party. Bring your furry friends to paint and help raise money for a great cause.

11.03.18

Celebrate Four Legged Friends

420 E. 20th Houston TX, 77008 5:00pm-9:00pm Come join the fun at Houston’s DogCentric popup fest! There will be lots of vendors, food, music and so much more. houstondogpop.com

Jordan Ranch 2422 Sandhill Crest Ln Fulshear 77040 12:00pm Join Jordan Ranch for a pet-centric event featuring a Wild Things Zoofari petting zoo, DJ, pet swag bags (while supplies last), “pet-icures,” a “Smooches to your Pooches" photo-booth, a caricature artist, food trucks and adoptable pets. Eventgoers also can meet the canine stars of the Houston Disc Dogs and Dock Dogs after their performances. The event is free, but guests are asked to bring petrelated items to donate. jordanranchtexas.com

11.03.18

11.10.18

6501 Memorial Drive 77007 8:00am-11:30am Fetch your sneakers, a furry friend and join the Houston SPCA for the 2018 iWalk for Animals at Memorial Park - Picnic Loop. The festival benefits the Houston SPCA's lifesaving programs like adoptions, animal cruelty investigations, 24hour injured animal rescue ambulance, foster care, and more. Enjoy demonstrations, live music, vendors, Best Costume and Best Trick contests! houstonspca.org

Blisswood Bed & Breakfast 13597 Frantz Cat Spring TX 78933 2:00pm-9:00pm Enjoy a day in the country at a beautiful working ranch including hay rides, vendors, local brews, farm animals to pet and more. You’ll see live dog demonstrations of sheep herding and fly ball, dog dancing and service dogs. Enjoy music from 3 award-winning country music bands. Did we mention there’s a bonfire, food trucks and s’mores? thebonfiretexas.com

Events 11.03.18

Dog Pop Houston

iWalk For Animals Pet Festival

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11.10.18

Bark in the Park at Grand Central

The Bonfire Texas

11.15.18

Big Fix Houston Kirby Ice House 3333 Eastside Street 77098 Come join Unity For A Solution at Kirby Ice house for a fun night to kick-off Big Fix Houston 2019. This is your chance to donate items for the silent auction and wine pull. See details on page 19 or visit the website. bigfixhouston.org

11.17.18

32nd Annual Celebrity Paws Gala Royal Sonesta Hotel 2222 West Loop South 77027 Join CAP for the 32nd Annual Celebrity Paws Gala at the Royal Sonesta Hotel to celebrate the Honorees and benefit Houston's homeless pets. Themed, A Celestial Evening, help CAP shoot for the moon and enjoy some out-of-this-world entertainment! Purchase tickets online by visiting cap4pets.org.

Save the Dates: 12.01.18-12.23.18 (Weekends only) Bering’s Photos with Santa

Bring your pet for photos with Santa, adoptable pets will be available at both Bering's locations.

Photos by HHS

The Dish

ADOPTION EVENT NOVEMBER 9-13

Pets For Vets At Houston Humane Society

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o honor the men and women who serve our country, the Houston Humane Society commemorates Veteran’s Day by offering free pet adoptions for all active and retired

military personnel. This year’s event, held November 9-13, is extended to veterans of all branches of the military. It is well known that companion animals reduce stress, relieve anxiety and alleviate

depression. This is a wonderful opportunity to match up deserving pets with military veterans.

To learn more about this adoption event, visit houstonhumane.org.

FUNDRAISER

Kick-Off Event For Big Fix Houston 2019

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Photo provided by BigFix Houston

B

ig Fix Houston is a large scale spay neuter event presented annually by Unity For A Solution in conjunction with the City of Houston and local animal welfare organizations.

The project’s goal is to educate pet owners and to provide free spay, neuter, vaccinations and microchipping to pets in areas of Houston with the most animal-related complaints, including high concentrations of stray dogs and cats. Unity For A Solution partners with individuals and groups who have a history of constructive collaborative relationships with others and work to promote the message that more community awareness and education plus additional low cost and/or free spay and neuter opportunities are the best solutions to Houston's animal welfare crisis.

You can participate in the kick-off to the 2019 BIG event by joining the Big Fix team November 15 at Kirby Ice House where they are seeking donations for the silent auction, wine pull and more. Find out details on page 19 or visit unityforasolution.org.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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#ShareWithUs!

FEATURED THIS MONTH:

AROUND TOWN, RUFF WEEKEND, SQUAD GOALS

Is there anything cuter than your pet? Of course not! We agree, so we make it easy for you to prove it...

PLAY with us on Instagram and look for our themed contests. You share with us, we share with our readers. Everybody wins! Head to: pettalkgofetch.com/event.

1.@doodle_around_town Have you seen @houstonchron top 100 restaurants for 2018?

I bet you're wondering which ones that are dog friendly! 28 restaurants from the list have patios where you can bring your pup and enjoy great food.

HINT: @iloveroost is one of them! Check out my blog for all the details.

2.@screwstondoodleThrowin’ It back to Ryder’s birthday party! #tbt@shannonkatecypress.

3. @olleyandsopheyWe Had the best time at the #houstonastros dog day! And sitting with our best friends was icing on the cake.

4. @oliverandcamille Too much to drink for National Dog Day! 5.@niko_themaltipoo LABOR DAY WEEKEND with friends.

6.@wrigs_and_keeks CURRENT MOOD: Tired 7. @fluff_bros Thank you so much to everyone that showed up yesterday, it was amazing getting to know all of you. We hope next time we get to meet even more sheepie furiends.

8.@kodithepeekapoo Puppy picnic with Mom! 9.@ callme_t_rex Squad

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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y b g u R Houston SaberCats

e u c s e R e h

to t

promote adoption with Houston Humane Society

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By: Michelle Mantor and SaberC Photos by Evin Thayer Adoptable Animals from Houston Humane Society

Cats

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es, that's right, Rugby players to the rescue of homeless animals! If you haven't heard, Houston has a new professional sports team to call our own, The Houston SaberCats. Not only are they terrific athletes from around the globe, they are softies for animals in need. When PetTalk asked the team members to help highlight adoptable pets looking for a forever home at Houston Humane Society, they were all in! We had a good time laughing and playing with the animals at the photoshoot, plus we got to meet our "cover boys" personal pets as well. The

animals featured in this story were primarily from a seizure that was conducted by Houston Humane Society in Grimes county where they saved over 250 animals in desperate need of care. The partnership with the SaberCats on this project went so well, that a couple of the guys even adopted a pet for themselves (see inside)! We at PetTalk are grateful for the team's support of Houston animals and in turn, we hope you support The SaberCats by attending their upcoming games.

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ABOUT THE TEAM

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Houston SaberCats are Houston’s newest professional Rugby team. Founded in 2017, they competed in the inaugural season of Major League Rugby (MLR) in 2018. After a 9 game exhibition season at Constellation Field, they played 4 games at Dyer Stadium. Dyer was a temporary home as they wait for completion of their new stadium, a 4,000 seat facility that will be the number one Rugby facility in North America. The recently named AVEVA Stadium is scheduled for completion before the start of the 2019 season, and is located in the Houston Sports Park, just north of Pearland off the 288 Freeway.

AVEVA Stadium will offer three full size Rugby fields (1 match stadium and 2 practice fields) with plans underway to have soccer, lacrosse and even entertainment events held on the site. The team and organization can’t wait for the sports mad Houston community to come and enjoy a night out at a Rugby match!

The team is made up of players from Houston, North and South America, Australia, Fiji and Europe. One of the members, Osea Kolinisau, was the captain of the Gold medal winning Fiji 7s Rugby team at the Rio Olympics, with a host of other players that have distinguished professional careers overseas.

The aim of Major League Rugby is to produce more elite, local Rugby players and help USA Rugby compete against the powerhouses of World Rugby. The addition of foreign players helps in the development of the local players and increases the level of Rugby played across the MLR competition.

The Houston SaberCats would love to see you out at AVEVA stadium for their games this Season! Vist the website to find out all of the details about Houston's newest sports team, ticket sales and how you can be part of the fun at www.houstonsabercats.com.

SaberCats With Their Personal Pets Sam Windsor Fly-Half Meet Sam and his pal Shiyah who was rescued by Sam and his wife Becca from someone who was trying to sell her on eBay. After a neglectful start to life, Shiyah now travels with her family, enjoys the parks in Houston where she can play and swim.

Hailing from Native country Australia, Sam shared a few tidbits about himself with us: HPT: What do they love about Houston?

Sam: Sports, food and drink, the people

with Shiyah (LaWoof)

and rarely any cold weather!

HPT: If Shiyah could ask you a question, what would it be?

Sam: "Why don’t I get to go to the park everyday???"

HPT: What is your favorite food?

Sam: Fresh seafood and a good steak.

HPT: What's Shiyah's favorite food or toy?

Sam: Whatever we’re eating and her squeaky donut, rubber football and most recently, a golf ball!

Conor Mills Inside Center with Krypto Say hello to Conor and his new puppy, Krypto. So cute...(both of them LOL!).

Conor is from the U.S. and is enjoying life in Houston. Here's more about Conor: HPT: What do you enjoy about Houston?

Conor: I love the sense of community and I also enjoy the great food.

HPT: If Krypto could ask you a question, what would it be?

Conor: “Why is everyone so big?”

HPT: What is your favorite food?

Conor: Mexican or Sushi HPT: What is Krypto's favorite toy?

Conor: Pumpkin Rag-Man HPT: What do you do in your leisure time?

Conor: I play video games and watch movies. Also I'm a big fan of comic books and one of my all-time favorite movies is The Notebook.

Matt Trouville Second Row Meet Matt and his buddy Oliver. Matt is from Australia and he's also quite tall making a big dog like Oliver the perfect size for Matt! Here's what Matt shared with us about himself: HPT: What do you think Oliver would ask you if he could talk?

Matt: "Why does the cat get to climb on the kitchen counters and I'm not allowed?"

HPT: We assume you have a big boy

with Oliver

appetite so tell us what your fave food is?

Matt: Steak and grilling at home.

HPT: What are some of Oliver's favorites?

Matt: He'll eat everything but loves apples and mom's clothes.

HPT: What do you do in your spare time?

Matt: Hang out with my wife, go to the movies, look for coffee spots, fly my drone, BBQ by the pool.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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ABOUT THE ADOPTABLES

A

dding the voice of The Houston SaberCats to animal rescue is greatly appreciated because any extra hand these animals can get to help them get noticed and adopted, all the better! The team members are all big animal supporters as noted by teammate

HHS Information:

(see page 56 for details of the rescue!)

ADDRESS 14700 ALMEDA RD., HOUSTON, TX 77053 PHONE 713.433.6421 ADOPTIONS MONDAY-FRIDAY 11:00AM-6:00PM SATURDAY - SUNDAY 11:00AM-5:30PM

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Sam Windsor, ”Many of the SaberCats are dog owners and all of them are animal lovers. There is always a fight to secure a spot at any PR events with the various Houston animal shelters and charities. It is also heart warming to know that immediately after the shoot with the Houston Humane Society, two of the players adopted dogs from the shelter. Zach Pangelinan and Jake Turnbull are now the proud parents of Maddie and Finn."

Sam goes on to say that Rugby is not only a physically demanding sport, but can also be testing on the individuals emotional and mental state. A number of the players have admitted to their animals

being a massive part of them dealing with the stress, pressure and professionalism that comes with the job. “The unconditional love pets and animals have towards their owners is unrivaled and definitely helps the SaberCat players through a grueling season.“ The animals chosen for the shoot were dogs and miniature horses but there are plenty of other animals at the shelter looking for a new home, including some awesome cats and kitties! We didn’t want to leave them out of the photos, but because the photoshoot was outdoors, we had to keep the safety of the cats in mind.

There are also small mammals, additional

mini horses and more to love and adopt, so visit Houston Humane Society and give one of these precious little creatures “new digs� just in time for the Holidays!

The shelter is located at 14700 Almeda Rd, Houston, TX 77053 or visit them online to view some (not all) adoptables at houstonhumane.org.

ABOUT THE NEW AVEVA STADIUM

T

he SaberCats complex will include three fields and parking for over 1,100 vehicles. The highlight of the project is a main field which will have seating for over 3,000 people, concessions, lighting to accommodate night games and other attractions to enhance the fan experience. There is rumor of a fantastic bar too!

As part of this project, the SaberCats and AVEVA, a global leader in engineering and industrial software, completed a 3-year deal, wherein AVEVA becomes the Principal Sponsor of the team and is awarded stadium naming rights as well as the right to have the AVEVA name on the front of the SaberCats game and training

jerseys.

In February of 2018, the City of Houston approved a $3.2 million deal for the rugby team to build the new venue, which has an overall capacity (seated and standing) of 4000.

There will be VIP seating, reserved seating, and general admission to watch

your Houston SaberCats. Lots of parking was thankfully baked into the plan (we Houstonians get tired of limited parking!).

The stadium is located at 2055 Mowery, Houston, Texas 77045.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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SaberCats Adopt Pups At Photoshoot

W

atching big, tough athletes fall in love with a puppy is adorable! And that’s just what happened at our photoshoot when players Jake Turnbull and Zach Pangelinan immediately gravitated to a couple of young dogs while we were walking the shelter assessing the animals to include in the photos. By the time the shoot was over, they were both filling out adoption applications and adopted "Maddie" and "Finn". Now that is a successful photoshoot!

JAKE AND FINN:

ZACH AND MADDIE:

“I’ve always loved dogs. I grew up with two British bulldogs which, by the way, are one of my favorite breeds–they are hard not to love. At the photoshoot with PetTalk and the Houston Humane Society, I saw Finn and his sisters playing and I couldn’t say no to that face and in the impulse of the moment, I adopted a Shepard mix who I absolutely love. The name Finn comes from my favorite NFL team, the Miami dolphins.”

“Since I was a little kid, I was surrounded by dogs because my parents would always rescue them and bring them home to me and my siblings. It’s very heart warming to be able to give a dog a home and give them the love they deserve. With that said, I got the opportunity to do a photoshoot at Houston Humane Society with a few of the puppies and it just happened that Maddie was the puppy I got to hold for the picture.

I had no intention of adopting a dog but once I held her in my arms, that all changed in a heartbeat. I signed the papers and took her home. It was the best decision I’ve made and we’re pretty much attached at the hip now. I absolutely love her."

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Hanging out with the SaberCats at Karbach Brewery

T

he Sabercats know how to play a mean game of Rugby, and they also know how to wind-down and have some fun! One of their favorite postgame hangouts last season was Karbach Brewery, one of the team’s sponsors.

In September, PetTalk hosted an event at Karbach Brewery to benefit Houston Humane Society and a few of the players stopped by to provide autographs and promote the team, but also to support PetTalk in our endeavor to raise money for HHS. We had a fun time raffling off over 20 raffle items, generously donated

by PetTalk Sponsors and others, plus the crowd enjoyed receiving a Commemorative Henrietta Pint Glass as

part of their admission ticket.

Karbach Brewery, if you haven’t been, is a great Houston food, beverage and socializing hotspot (and dogs are welcome on the patio). The food is delicious and of course the beer is too! During the previous season, the team played at Dyer Stadium, just around the corner from Karbach, so stopping in after the game was a regular occurrence. We hope the team continues to enjoy a tasty brew after practice or games in the coming season.

PetTalk would like to say THANK YOU to the entire SaberCats team and office as well as Karbach Brewery for helping us support animals in need!

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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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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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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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

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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

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2018 HOLIDAY

GIFT GUIDE ' Tis the Season!

T

he holidays are a time of giving as we celebrate with family and friends, both two-legged and four-legged.

Sharing the holiday festivities and gift giving with pets is often part of the joy we receive in the yuletide season. We show that we care about them by carefully selecting the perfect gift, something they will enjoy. Each year, we present our Annual Holiday Gift Guide to inspire you to find the perfect gift for the pet or pet lover on your list. We feature unique, artistic, useful, and fun products, some of which are sold by our sponsors. We encourage you to shop with them because they make our publication possible and provide valuable products to our pet community. Please keep them in mind during your shopping adventure!

On behalf of Houston PetTalk and PetTalk GoFetch, we wish you a safe and happy 2018 Holiday Season.

TIED UP WITH A BOW

If your pooch is a fashionista that truly seems to stand just a little taller and chest puffs a little larger when he thinks he's looking dapper, then a colorful bow tie from Yuppie Dog will make him jump with joy Christmas morning! Bows range in price according to size, from $8 to $13. Yuppie Dog also offers unique, colorful collars in this whimsical style. Head to Yuppie Dog's location at 2203 Durham to shop for your pup. While you're there, check out awesome daycare facility! yuppiedog.com 36their www.houstonpettalk.com

LOOKING FOR UNIQUE?

Look no further than Houston's Flying M Feed Store who describe themselves this way: "Warning: This is NOT your Grandpa's Feed Store!" and they earn the right to say it because they are NOT like any other store. Flying M has a carefully curated retail section with unique finds (like these fun earrings and pins), for dog, cat, bird and equine lovers alike.

They also offer a coffee shop/bookstore, a hydroponic farm, classes, cool music, a tranquil backyard bird center...you've just got to check them out for yourself! flyingmfeedco.com

BUILT FOR YOUR MOST PRECIOUS CARGO

Subaru is a favorite brand of pet owners because this auto is built with pet ownership and safety in mind. Treat yourself and your pet to a new ride! Find great deals at West Houston Subaru, one of the biggest supporters of animals in the Houston business community, located at 17109 Katy Freeway.

RESCUE PUPS STORY

"Ava and the Prince: The Adventures of Two Rescue Pups" (LongTale Publishing; $15.95; Ages 3-8) is the sweet, true story of two rescue boxer pups - Ava and Prince - who find love and each other in a forever and ever home. The book is a celebration of rescue dogs everywhere and is authored by local Houstonian, Joy Sewing. Find more details at avaandtheprince.com.

HOLIDAY CARDS AND PORTRAITS

BY KRISTEL PEALE

Send hugs & kisses this holiday season to your friends and family with your custom designed portrait and cards by artist Kristel Peale. Such a meaningful gift, paintings and note cards are affordable and unique! Contact Kristel at petandpalette.com.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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YUMMY STOCKING STUFFER IT'S PAWTY TIME!

One of the most iconic stores in Houston, Arne's Warehouse and Pet Supply Store, always promises us a great selection at the lowest prices and they deliver! The pet supply store has aisles of great pet products as well as party supplies. Head to the store at Studemont & I-10 to get the best stocking stuffers and throw your pet a pawty! arneswarehouse.com.

The Holiday Season is about giving something our loved ones really want. Guess what your dog really wants? Treats!

Find delicious, healthy and colorful creations by Doggie Express at John Andrews Pet Salon, 3306 Mercer St., 77027.

JEWEL-TIDE SEASON

Did you know that you can purchase one-of-a-kind, handmade jewelry with a plethora of pet themes right here in Houston by local artists Esquivel and Fees? Or you can create your own design! You'll delight any gift-receiver on your list this year with a beautiful creation, available in a variety of metals, at efsterling.com or visit their store in Rice Village.

FURREVER UNIQUE

If you truly want to BOW WOW the pet lover on your shopping list, there is no match for a custom portrait of their pet by highly acclaimed Houston artist, Kermit Eisenhut.

His paintings are whimsical yet realistic and will be the perfect gift that keeps on giving for years to come. Check out Kermit's work at kermitart.com.

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DRINK & BE MERRY

Your little 4-legger will have hours of fun this Holiday Season with plush toys creatively depicting "fun beverages".

The added bonus: Us twoleggers enjoy the humor!

Find these toys and more at Patti's Pet Depot, 14618 Memorial Dr, 77079.

WARM & COZY

Your pet will stay stylish and warm this winter with a Worthy Dog sweater! Made of 100% acrylic, these comfy double-knit sweaters feature a "button hole" in the back so that you can easily hook your pet's lead to their harness. Available at Carter's Pet Market, Echo Lane Shopping Center, 9333 Katy Freeway.

SOFT & COMFY GIVE THE GIFT OF TRAVEL The gift of a vacation to the Hill Country for a peaceful respite, pets in tow, would be top on most anyone's list for the Holidays! Surprise someone special with a gift certificate to the quaint, nature-filled location of Wimberley where Abundance Retreat awaits! Sit by the fire, canoe on Cypress Creek, shop at Wimberley Square, hike the nature-rich pathways...all with your pup in tow. Abundance offers two cabins, one small and one large situated right on Cypress Creek, walking distance to shopping but secluded for a restful vacation. To purchase a gift certificate, visit abundanceretreat.com.

Gorilla Dog Beds has over 20 yrs. experience in textile manufacturing and industrial sewing techniques and they know how to make one TOUGH and comfortable bed! From chew-proof to orthopedic beds to kennel pads, XL beds, and more, their product quality is unmatched! Give your pup the gift of the very best sleeping space! gorilladogbeds.com.

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PAWS UP:

10 REASONS TO VISIT ILUCKY DOG By: Brandi Douglass, iluckydog.net

B

efore iLuckyDog, my career often made it necessary for me to board my dogs. There were things I wanted from a pet care facility that no one could offer. I began thinking about what I could do differently. Over four years of careful planning, iLuckyDog Pet Campus came to fruition. We opened in July 2017 and have enjoyed watching the business develop into one of the most different and unique facilities around.

First, we are simple. Life can be hectic and we believe the best accommodation for your pet should also be easy.

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Second, we’re non-traditional. We’re open and fully staffed 24/7. Drop off, pick up, call, text or tour any day at any time.

We require no minimum stay, no deposit, no cancellation fees, we have no breed restrictions and no hidden fees, ever.

Third, we provide high value services.

Our Lodging price is for 24 hours of stay, and includes daycare, unlimited access to all campus amenities and an exit bath. All lodging rooms are suites, either regular 6’X6’ with 6’X8’ outdoor private patio or large suite 8’x8’ with 8’X10’ outdoor private patio. Each lodging suite has

an oversized 5” memory foam bed, a flatscreen TV, and webcam. We rotate our guests to playtime every 2 hours around the clock excluding quiet time between 10:30 pm to 5:00 am.

Fourth, our daycare pricing is simple and flexible. You may drop off and pickup your pet anytime around the clock for a flat fee of $5 hr.

Fifth, we have over 20,000sf of double fenced, grassy play areas with two splash pads and a bone-shaped, salt water pool.

For days that are too hot or raining, we have a 5,000sf climate controlled arena (Muddy Paws Arena) with a 30’ ceiling and padded flooring.

Sixth, we have safety in mind at all times. All pets must become iLuckyDog members which requires all pets to have up-to-date vaccination records on file with us, complete our internal paperwork, be on flea and heartworm preventative, be microchipped and spayed or neutered (medical exceptions) and have passed our personality review with one of our highly trained associates.

Seventh, we have a groomer on staff allowing you to bring your dog in just for a groom or have your dog groomed during lodging. Daycare is INCLUDED the day of grooming.

Eighth, we are committed to the wellbeing of dogs. We believe in a higher minimum standard of care for your pet.

The layout and materials used in the

construction of our facility were designed specifically for the safety and best care for our guests.

Ninth, we are hyper-focused on cleanliness and environmental good practices.

We clean with a product called Rescue (Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide) which kills all enveloped and non-enveloped diseases, and when it dries, it turns into water vapor and air. The product is highly effective in keeping our facility clean and is safe for pets and people.

Tenth, we are forward thinking and continually making plans to improve. We are currently in phase one, with phase two offering a full retail service with high quality food, treats, toys, grooming products, leashes, collars plus an onsite veterinarian!

Come check us out and experience the Top 10 reasons your dog will want to join our pack at iLuckyDog! Learn more at iluckydog.net.

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Health SPOTTING PAIN In Your Pet 5 Signs To Look For

M

ost pets do an excellent job of hiding their pain. After all, in animals, any sign of pain can be seen as a weakness, putting them in a vulnerable position. This is a throwback to their ancestors living in the wild, masking their suffering to ward off would-be predators. Unfortunately, these traits have become inbred, and our pets often won’t show outward signs until the pain or ill health is quite severe.

However, there is good news!

Breakthrough developments for treating pet pain are being used everyday to help dogs and cats with all kinds of health problems. But first, pet owners need to understand that a pet’s pain does not discriminate. Any pet, any size, any breed and any age, can suffer from pain, the real trick is how to spot signs of pain in your pet quickly. Pains left untreated can sometimes lead to severe stress, lack of appetite and depression which can often cause more serious health issues.

Trust your gut feelings and look for these common symptoms: 1. Behavioral changes are a big sign there could be pain. Some pets can become shy or defensive when hurting.

If your pet is normally friendly and well behaved, but then snaps at you, it may be masking pain. Besides shyness and aggression, you might notice that your pet has trouble walking up stairs, avoids jumping or climbing, and doesn’t want to chase after toys. We can detect obvious signs like limping, but it’s important to watch for stiffness or an arched back.

For example, dogs in pain often lay only flat on their sides, rather than curled up.

They might be slower moving, sleeping more and seemingly disinterested in things they used to love. Another sign is unexplained accidents in the house. It’s

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By: Dr. Laura Noaker, VERGI Emergency and Critical Care Hospital, www.vergi247.com

often very painful to get up from lying down (which you also might notice), and sometimes pets just aren’t able to make it outside fast enough.

2. Lack of appetite is often the result of some sort of discomfort. Like sick humans, pets simply don’t feel like eating or drinking when they are sick, especially if it’s painful to walk to the food bowl. If you notice a lack of appetite, it’s important to seek veterinary attention right away, as this could be a symptom of many dangerous ailments including pain in their teeth or some other part of their mouth.

3. Over grooming: It’s normal for dogs and cats to groom themselves, but it’s not normal for this to become an obsessive behavior. If your pet is tending to a localized area, it could be a sign of hurting. Pets will groom the source of pain in hopes to clean and care for the wound, even if there is no open wound present.

They will also use this as a way of coping with the stress of pain or anxiety. Be sure to keep an eye on the area and inspect it gently.

4. Eye changes: The eyes can be strong indicators of pain in pets. This is true both for eye pain itself and for pain elsewhere in their body. Often times pain elsewhere in the body will result in larger (dilated) pupils, while pain in the eye(s) can result in either larger or smaller (constricted) pupils – depending on the

underlying injury or disease process, and whether one or both eyes are affected. Squinting may also indicate pain, especially in dogs. The pain may occur in either the eyes or elsewhere in the body.

Similarly, a “bloodshot” appearance can indicate pain in the affected eyes as well.

5. Breathing changes: Pets in pain may have a faster and more shallow breathing pattern or excessive panting for no discernible reason. You may even notice a change in the movement of the abdominal muscles and/or the chest. Both of these sets of muscles are involved in the breathing process. Cats will often have an increased heart/pulse rate. The rate often speeds up when the painful area is touched or moved.

Being able to identify early signs of pain can lead to a more comfortable outcome for you and your pet. If you notice that your pet has some of the symptoms above, call your veterinarian so they can take a look or contact VERGI 24/7 for an evaluation.

Meet your new best friend at ADORE Houston.

WWW.ADOREHOUSTON.ORG

INFO@ADOREHOUSTON.ORG Houston PetTalk Magazine

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HELPING 'EM Outrun Disk Disease Case Studies On Improving Mobility

By: Dr. Jennifer Hennessey-Bremseth Wonder Pet Rehab & Recovery

W

hat a pain in the… back!

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a very common problem seen in a variety of dog breeds, though the dachshund common falls victim to IVDD. Disk disease can be debilitating as well as significantly painful, leading to complications as serious as paralysis.

IVDD is essentially a disk between the bones of the spine that herniates and compresses the spinal cord, leading to neurologic changes as well as pain. IVDD patients need medical and often surgical care… along with physical rehabilitation.

Four of our super pup patients at Wonder Pet Rehab & Recovery are living with disk disease. While each is unique, their families have accommodated these furbabies’ special needs with adjustments in the home routine and special accommodations, such as gates, crates, ramps, etc.

Kodiac, Lucie, and Sophia were enrolled at Wonder Pet for ongoing management of back pain, muscle spasms, and strengthening therapy as they each are chronic recoverees from previous back surgery. Each one has hind limb weakness that leads to compensation in their strides and movement, adding up to muscle tension and spasms on occasion. Each of the families desire for their pup to have improved mobility as well as a playful lifestyle with less lameness or a notably hunched back. At Wonder Pet, therapy includes sessions 1-2 times weekly. Therapy focuses on strengthening their weaker muscles and their core (abdomen and back muscles), which reduces re-injury and allows each more physical ability to be mobile, with less chronic pain. Bailey, a poodle rather than a dachshund, was enrolled shortly after her spinal surgery at Texas A&M Small Animal Clinic. Her needs were significant in that she presented for help while still

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paralyzed after her surgery.

Each of our super pooches exercises in our underwater treadmill to enjoy the freedom that buoyancy provides, allowing joints and muscles to work under “lighter” circumstances; the bath-warm water also helps soothe tight muscles and joints for a comfort therapy during their exercise time. The water treadmill allows our patients to stand when muscles or pain make weight-bearing difficult, restoring their body’s ability to regain strength as well as ability to move with a more smooth gait. For these once very active dogs, it’s a confidence builder and mood lifter for them to feel secure while standing and moving in the safety of the water.

Physiotherapy exercise, including forepaw placement on various elevated surfaces, helps improve muscle strength in their hind limbs; standing (sometimes with manual support such as with Bailey) on a soft surface or physioball boosts their activation of core strength, improving weight distribution and balance to all 4 limbs. Retraining their bodies to stand correctly balanced, helps to restore their natural gait and function. Sophia and Lucie especially enjoy the incline dry-land

treadmill time at Wonder Pet for more advanced workouts and challenges. All sessions include positive reinforcement, lowfat treats and activities that are tailored to what each pup seems to enjoy the most. When rehab is fun and enjoyable, patients regain even more play ability as they “perform”! Additionally, tissue massage therapy between exercises helps rejuvenate those under-used or tense muscles. Each of our super IVDD-defiers receive heat therapy initially at their sessions to prep muscles for exercise, and wrap up their rehab care with a therapy laser session on weak or painful areas; each and every one falls asleep during this soothing spa time!

Bailey can now proudly stand by her fellow IVDD survivors and is walking with her family with assistance from wheels/ slings and on her own in the water treadmill. Animal physical rehabilitation helps furbabies find their power to play, boosts their quality of life by improving comfort and mobility, and even often leads to less oral medication needs. Rehabilitation is thereby the easy “pill to swallow” when combating this common K9 Kryponite called disk disease!

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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PET LOSS Prevention

T

he best solution for pet loss is pet loss prevention! There are plenty of steps you can take to ensure the safety of your companion animals. Some will require a sizeable expenditure while others can be done with minimal cost. Save yourself the anxiety, tears, and frustration, and put a little effort into making your home safe, and your pets safer by taking some or all of the following preventative measures.

1) Always have updated ID tags for your pet. A proper ID tag will have a working phone number listed.

The phone number is the most important thing on the ID tag, more important than names or address. Choose a number you know you will answer or check the voice mail; consider adding a second number just in case.

2) Microchip your pet.

Microchipping costs as little s $20-$30 and is not harmful or painful. Once you microchip, always be sure to update your contact info when you move or change phone numbers.

3) Make sure your fences are secure. Always latch the gate and check for areas where the fence may be damaged or pets may be able to sneak underneath.

If your pet likes to dig, you may need to check frequently. If

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you can't stop your pet from digging, try lining the fence with rocks or bricks at the bottom.

4) Use fitted collars and good quality leashes. If your pet can slip out of his

By: Michelle Mantor

collar, it is too big. Dog and cat collars should be just snug enough to fit two fingers between the neck and collar.

Leashes that have been chewed on should be replaced. Retractable leashes are not recommended as they can become wrapped around people and objects easily, and are more difficult to control once extended.

5) When traveling in the car, keep the windows at a safe level. Although it seems obviously unsafe to jump from a car window, your doggie may be more focused on the activities he might participate in once he is out. The best advice is to have your pet secured in a pet seat belt or crate. 6) Have recent photos of your pet available, including close ups of face and full body shots from the front and side, where coloration and size are clearly visible.

7) Use a GPS tracking device. This is the most expensive suggestion, but it can be very helpful and informative.

In the December issue, we will focus on what to do should your pet unfortunately get lost.

Photo by Evin Thayer

Steps To Ensure Your Pet's Safety

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 DOGGIE H

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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 Houston PetTalk Magazine

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HOSPICE Consultation What To Expect

O

ur veterinary associations are getting better about teaching veterinarians compassion, empathy and respecting family’s wishes at or near the completion of their companion’s lives. The realization that a pet has been diagnosed with a life-limiting condition can cause a number of physical and emotional reactions in family members whom with they share a loving bond. A large number of veterinarians understand this feeling because we’ve experienced loss, too. Thankfully, due to the increase in the number of educational opportunities

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By: Christie Cornelius, DVM lastwishes.com

available for veterinarians in the fields of hospice and palliative care, we’ve been making great progress on knowing when to recognize and recommend a paradigm shift from one of curing to caring.

STEP 1: If your pet has a general practitioner already, you may want to ask them if they feel your pet’s condition could be better managed in the comfort of home with the help of a hospice team, or a veterinarian with a special interest in home senior pet care. If you do not have a general practitioner for your pet, it’s encouraged that you contact a provider who

can help manage your senior pet’s condition in the home. You may be surprised to learn that a significant number of cats and dogs never see a veterinarian once in their lives, let alone on a regular basis.

Mobile veterinarians see pets all the time who needed someone’s help long before the day we arrive.

Patients who benefit most from this increased level of care have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, cancer, chronic internal diseases, cognitive decline, and/ or any condition that causes chronic pain or suffering.

STEP 2: Setting Up The Appointment.

Most veterinarians and support staff who focus on pain management, palliative care, and hospice care are compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental. They WANT to help you and your family make decisions in the best interest of you and your pet. Many services are set up to handle requests online, have e-mail access, messaging capabilities on Facebook, and/or caring individuals who are a great help to worried individuals over the phone.

STEP 3: The Home Visit. After reviewing all available previous medical records from your general practitioner, referring veterinarian, or veterinarian specialist; a detailed patient and family history is discussed. The patient’s and family’s needs, including values, beliefs, care-taking capabilities, and goals are revealed. This information is important for the recommended care plan that is tailored to each patient and family. The patient’s appetite, willingness to accept medications, and the family’s ability to remain committed to

compliance are essential factors in determining the best course of action.

A thorough physical examination is performed, including body/muscle condition scoring, and proper pain palpation and pain scoring. Fear free techniques are used to assess overall condition and co-morbidities such as skin, ear, eye and dental disease that many older pets deal with on top of their primary life-limiting illness.

Once an assessment is determined, we discuss options for care and monitoring of the patient with each family. Sometimes care is 100% in the home, and in some cases we work with the referring or speciality veterinarian to provide the most complete, interdisciplinary care possible. Our goal is to discuss ALL options and give each family choices. This means that if there is a part of care, diagnostics, or monitoring a home care practitioner or team cannot provide, a recommendation to a veterinary team that can provide the care needed at the moment should be discussed. Many

home care veterinary teams carry most of the needed therapies with them and can likely start treatments immediately, which is very convenient to most families.

STEP 4: Home Care and Follow-Up. A summary of your pet’s assessment, information on your pet’s disease processes, home care instructions, and how to contact the team in the event of an emergency is an important final step in an initial consultation. It should also be determined at this time when a follow-up over the phone or in-home recheck is recommended. Some patients need exams every few days, some a couple times a month, and some every 2-3 months depending on the diagnosis and associated symptoms each pet is experiencing and how quickly the team is able to stabilize them. The mission of a veterinary hospice team is to tend to the patient, the family, and the community; and to offer emotional, physical, spiritual, and social support as and wherever needed.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

53

BEACH HAPPY

BEACH HOUSES YOUR DOG WILL LOVE! sandnsea.com 409.797.5500

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GALVESTON ISLAND VACATION RENTALS SINCE 1974

Tail End SAVING Neglected Animals

HHS Rescues Dogs & Horses in Grimes County

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By the time every dog and equine was loaded, the total was 242 small breed dogs and puppies and 49 mini horses and Shetland ponies. Nearly 300 animals had been living in vile, horrific conditions for years.

Most of the dogs were forced to live in breeding pairs in small, rusty wire caging covered in feces, filth, and nasty debris that had collected in and around the cages over time. Split up around the

property in sheds, metal buildings, makeshift yard cages, and inside the home, the animals had zero socialization with humans and absolutely no quality of life.

Eyes squinting as rescuers pulled them out of dingy, non-airconditioned buildings, the dogs were getting perhaps their first look at a brighter future.

The mini horses and Shetland ponies were living in sandy pastures with no hay or grass in sight. Many of them were

Photos by Houston Humane Society

hen the Grimes County Sheriff’s Office contacted the Houston Humane Society and requested help with an animal cruelty case in mid-August, no one involved knew just how large scale the animal seizure would end up being. Early reports estimated about 50 small dogs and maybe 10-12 mini horses. As law enforcement continued to investigate the property, those numbers climbed quickly.

By: Monica Schmidt Houston Humane Society

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emaciated with ribs and hip bones clearly visible. In addition to live horses, there were dead carcasses on property. The barn on property housed the horses in the worst shape, some of them in so much pain they could barely stand, while the rest roamed freely in small, sandy pastures.

Once the dogs and horses made it back safely to the Houston Humane Society, the real work began. Every single animal needed a complete medical evaluation and treatment plan. After putting out a plea for groomers to help bathe and shave down the dogs, we had dozens of professional groomers show up the first week! As filthy, matted hair was shaved away, our team found old wounds left untreated, skin infections,

and even lice! Almost every dog needed a dental, and the majority had to have teeth extracted due to severe periodontal disease. The medical issues were overwhelming – bone issues, eye ulcers and cataracts, detached retinas, dental disease, luxating patellas, heartworm disease, internal and external parasites, open wounds, and the list just kept going.

The horses weren’t in any better shape.

Everyone needed their teeth floated, hooves trimmed, psyllium added to their diet because of the sand accumulation in their intestinal tract, special diets, time, patience, and gelding (for the males).

The road to recovery has been a long one for these animals. As medical needs were addressed, volunteers and staff began working on socialization. With a lot

of patience (and treats), these animals are learning to trust humans. They are kind, sweet, gentle souls that deserve to live amazing lives with families that will love them unconditionally. It’s been an amazing journey, and we couldn’t have done it without our friends at Animal Investigation and Response who deployed a team to assist us on scene and for nearly a month afterwards to help us care for the influx of animals, the dozens of professional groomers that donated their time to help groom every single dog, our rescue partners that stepped up to help some of the hardest cases, the HHS volunteers that support our efforts every single day, and the donors of Houston Humane Society that made it possible for us to be there when these animals needed us most.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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A CAMPUS for All Animals...

And The People Who Love Them

T

he growing need for life-saving programs and services for the tens of thousands of neglected, orphaned and abused animals that come into the care of the Houston SPCA each year developed into a major expansion for the region’s oldest and largest animal protection organization. The new Campus For All Animals cares for the broadest range of animal species including companion animals, small mammals, horses and farm animals, native wild life and yes, even exotics like bears and tigers.

Jackson & Ryan, the architectural

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firm that crafted the plans for the 900 Portway location more than 20 years ago, designed the campus to provide comfortable, inviting spaces for homeless companion animals seeking a second chance in life while offering visitors not only a warm and engaging pet adoption experience, but a place where all animal lovers can enjoy special events, trainings and conferences as well as educational and recreational gatherings.

The 28,000-sq. ft. adoption center features various pet suites 50% larger than the former center and can accommodate multiple animals, especially bonded pets.

By: Julie Kuenstle Houston SPCA

The dog and puppy lodge allows potential adopters to engage more with pets while spotlight rooms put them in plain view as visitors venture through the welcoming hallways and corridors. Cats and kittens have double sided or two story suites for lounging and playing, in addition to the Kitty Clubhouse where all can mesmerizingly view felines meandering in and out of several large cat condos.

Comforting amenities also include soothing classical music, high ceilings with natural light, large ‘get acquainted’ rooms for one-on-one time with potential new pets in a calm and quiet space. The

adjacent play yards just outside the large dogs’ suites give visitors real interaction time with various pets as well as a safe place for dog owners to introduce a potential second pet to their own.

Houston SPCA’s Wildlife Center, one of the largest wildlife hospital and rehabilitation centers in the nation has 9,000 square feet of new space to care for over 11,000 wild animals representing more than 362 different species in any given year.

“We will continue to expand our capabilities in order to our serve communities in an impactful way including not only adoptions, but humane education, volunteering and animal cruelty investigations,” said Patti Mercer, President and CEO of the Houston SPCA. The organization currently has 12 animal cruelty investigators including two Harris County Precinct 1 sergeants on staff to manage 7,000 cases annually in an eight country region.

Other Campus Additions: Carruth Education Center for Critter Camp, education programs throughout the year for students 3rd-10th; a rescue arena for exercising rescue horses with 300-stadium seating, membership dog parks and a 26-stall barn to care for sick or injured horses and farm animals. After the completion of Phase II, the organization will also have two-story dorm for fourthyear Texas A&M College of Veterinary

Medicine students during their required two-week rotation, as well as an animal hospital and clinic that is scheduled to open to the community in October 2019.

Both the education center and rescue arena are available for special events, trainings and conferences.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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BOARDING Your Loved Ones A Guide To Choosing A Facility

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f you are looking for a quality place to board your pet, finding somewhere that is clean, safe and run by an experienced staff is a priority. It is equally as important that the facility provides a comfortable and nurturing environment for your pet. You want your pet to have fun, be safe and BE LOVED. The following is a guide that will help you select a boarding facility so that your pet (and you) can enjoy their boarding experience.

neighbors think. Your vet interacts with animal lovers every day and will know which facilities get the rave reviews, and just as importantly, which ones don’t.

Keep in mind your veterinarian may also board pets, but the vet will know what type of facility can best meet your pet’s needs and will advise you accordingly.

QUESTIONS TO ASK AT A BOARDING FACILITY ❖

HOW TO CHOOSE Recommendations from friends, neighbors and your veterinarian are a great place to start. Social media such as Facebook, Google Plus and Yelp will provide you with reviews and opinions of most reputable facilities and Nextdoor is an excellent place to find out what your

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What procedures are in place in the event your pet is injured or is ill? Will the facility transport your pet to a vet or emergency room or will they expect you to make your own arrangements?

Is the staff trained in pet CPR? If your pet is on medication, what procedures are in place for administering medications?

How many times per day will your pet

By: Debbie Shelton roversromphouse.com

will be walked/exercised and where?

What are the drop off and pick up times?

Is the facility manned 24 hours/day?

If your pet is a candidate for playcare, what is the staff-to-pet ratio? This is important for the safety of the animal.

Are private playcare/exercise sessions available?

What are the feeding procedures and is water available 24/7?

Does the facility have on-site cameras that enable you to see your pet at play or in its kennel 24/7?

Can you contact the facility for updates on the well-being of your pet?

Touring the facility is critical to the decision-making process. Do not use a facility where: ❖ You are not allowed to see where your pet will be sleeping, going to the potty and exercising. ❖ The facility does not allow impromptu tours. ❖ The facility is not clean. ❖ The staff is not attentive or you observe bad attitudes or behaviors.

Take the time to check out facilities that offer the services you desire. It's worth the effort to ensure your pet's safety and care.

Author Debbie Shelton is the owner of Rover's Romphouse in the Westchase area of Houston. With the holidays upon us, boarding your pet may be in your plans. This guide can help you find the right environment to suit your pet's needs.

To learn more about Rover's Romphouse, visit roversromphouse.com to find information on boarding, daycare and grooming.

The Holiday Season Is Here Make Your Boarding Reservations Early

If travel is in your plans this Holiday Season and your pet is not coming along, be sure to make your reservations early with our sponsors, some of the very best Houston has to offer, to ensure your pet has a safe, fun experience while you’re away!

DOG BOARDING - SOME PROVIDE CAT BOARDING MEMORIAL/SPRING BRANCH:

Yuppie Dog yuppiedog.com 2203 S. Durham Drive

SOUTH HOUSTON/PEARLAND:

Meadowlake meadowlakepetresort.com 13500 Furman- 288 South

Bingle Vet binglevet.com 2025 Bingle Road

John Andrews Pet Salon johnandrewspetsalon.com 3306 Mercer

BIRD BOARDING:

Houston Dog Ranch houstondogranch.com 9602 Dalecrest Dr.

Korob Pet Hotel anytimepetsitters.com 5501 Austin St.

Adventures in Birds adventuresinbirdsinc.com 7414 Westview Drive

Carter’s Pet Market carterspetmarket.com 9333 Katy Freeway

Pampered Pet Inn pamperedpetinn.com 2411 Bissonnet Street

IN-HOME STAY WITH YOUR PET:

Peace Love Dogs peacelovedogshouston.com 9615 A Yupondale Dr.

Southwest Animal Clinic swacvet.com 4507 Bissonnet Street

WESTCHASE:

KATY/SUGAR LAND/MISSOURI CITY:

Rover’s Romphouse roversromphouse.com 3663 S. Dairy Ashford NORTHWEST HOUSTON:

Bingle Vet binglevet.com 5215 FM 1463 Suite 400- Katy

Miss Daisy’s Dog Camp missdaisys.com 25039 Hufsmith Cemetery Road

Canine Country Club mycaninecountryclub.com 1440 Katy Gap- Katy

INSIDE 610 LOOP/HEIGHTS:

LoneStar Pet Lodges LoneStarPetlodges.com 3207 Williamsburge Lane

Club Canine Houston clubcaninehouston.com 4703 Rose Street Dogtopia dogtopia.com/houston 1315 Waugh

Doggie Walks Houston doggiewalkshouston.com Lucy Goo Pet Sitting lucygoopetsitting.com Super Pet Sitters superpetsitters.vpweb.com

iLuckyDog iluckydog.net 21725 Clay Road

Dogs R Dogs dogsrdogsdaycare.com 3113 S. Shepherd

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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IN MEMORY OF

"Sake" Mantor < MAY 2005—SEPTEMBER 2018 >

To My Sweet Little Girl, I remember the day I first saw you in a crate, weighing only 1.7 lbs at 13 weeks old and I daresay you were the cutest thing I’d ever seen. I was so grateful that God put you in our family’s life. You grew to finally settle at a whopping 3.2 lbs. and there sure was a lot of personality and spunk in that little body. As time went on, you helped raise the kids by always being willing to wear doll clothes, be pushed in a stroller, hair braided, or just cuddle to console one of us that was having a bad day. You made us laugh with your antics - jumping on the back of the sofa to be as tall as our Briard and barking like you were taking no prisoners, rolling on your back in our arms and insisting on being carried like a baby and racing through the house with your “monkey” daring us to catch you as you maneuvered in and under furniture that we had no chance of matching. You were a trooper to attend PetTalk events year after year, charming the people that stopped at our booth, always happy and willing to please. The memories are many that keep flooding my mind and now the house is a bit more quiet, with an air of melancholy when I accidentally call your name to go outside, formed from years of habit, all to realize your sweet little soul has passed to a place of peace. We know you are in God’s hands because only a gracious God could have made something as precious as you.

So for now, goodbye my little friend... but know that you were loved and adored and my prayer is that you have the eternal joy that you brought to our home. We miss you sweet girl.

Love You Forever, Mom and your best friends, Kaia, Stian, Mark, Jeda & Friday

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any regular price dog or cat adoption fee expires 12/31/2018

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 enrichment and training of wildlife. Look for other upcoming conservation stories so that you too can help save a species.

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n this portion of the magazine, we talk a lot about the importance of saving animals in the wild, and how we can all take actions to protect the animals near and dear to our hearts.

While that is undoubtedly one of the top values at the Houston Zoo, the welfare of the animals in our care

By: Lauren Wappler, Houston Zoo

Photos, Stephanie Adams/Houston Zoo

THE IMPORTANCE OF ENRICHMENT AND TRAINING

is also a high priority. To facilitate optimal animal care at the zoo, the zookeepers incorporate training and a variety of enrichment activities in their daily routines, much like you would do for your pet at home.

In the most basic sense of the phrase, training is teaching. Training includes

every interaction between the keeper and the animal, and every interaction has the potential to shape behavior.

As previously mentioned, the goal when training the animals is to provide the best animal welfare. Training not only increases animalsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mental and physical stimulation, but it also helps reduce stress and allows keepers to provide proper nutrition.

Zookeepers, in a sense, are personal trainers for the animals in their care. They keep the animals in the best physical health possible by mimicking natural behaviors that each animal would display in the wild. For example, the cheetahs are taken to large fields off-site to run and chase a custom-made lure. This exercise is an important means of enrichment

and benefit to the health of the cheetahs.

Keepers also provide other forms of enrichment that encourage natural behavior that the species may utilize in the wild. This may include encouraging an animal to explore using the five senses, natural foraging behavior, or even painting with non-toxic paints! Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right, the zoo has its very own Picasso, Van Gogh, and Monet; though, they go by the names of Jonah the sea lion, Shanti the elephant and Bono the Nigerian dwarf goat, to name a few.

How does an animal paint exactly? Some of the animals, like the elephants, sea lions and goats, use their trunks, hands or mouths to hold the paintbrush while their trainer holds a canvas.

Other animals, such as the birds and North American porcupine, primarily paint using their footprints, walking over a canvas with paint.

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Zoo Zookeeper Megan spent about one month working with Bono to train him how to paint. She started by training him to touch a paintbrush; every time Bono held the brush for an allotted amount of time, he received a treat. Once he mastered this, Bono then learned to put the brush to the canvas, earning a treat when done so properly. Soon he was creating beautiful works of art.

Now that Bono has

mastered his technique, he really gets into his artwork and is excited to explore his artistic side.

Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s training by way of painting, exercising or practicing for a medical procedure, the strong

relationships between zookeepers and the animals are key. These relationships allow the keepers to provide world-class animal care, as well as educate and inspire zoo guests to join us in saving animals in the wild.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Revealed RESCUE

HOUSTON PETS ALIVE!

Houston Pets Alive! (HPA!) is not your average animal rescue. HPA! acts as a safety net for Houston and Harris County municipal shelters in order to save the animals who have no other options.

Every day, HPA! receives a list of pets who are scheduled to be euthanized; it's a list that is usually comprised of pets no one else wants - dogs and cats with illnesses like heart worm and ringworm, injuries, or behavioral issues, nursing moms, and neonatals (kittens and puppies that need to be bottle fed). HPA! coordinates a foster home in a cat or dog's final hours in order to save them from unnecessary but imminent euthanasia.

Through its work to advocate for unwanted and under-served cats and dogs, HPA!, along with its dedicated staff, volunteers, fosters, adopters, and supporters, is committed to making Houston the largest no-kill city in the country.

CHEDDAR Cheddar came to HPA! with his four litter mates. He is missing part of his hind leg and he tries to walk on his stump, which causes an open wound that continually becomes infected. No worries! Cheddar will do wonderfully as a tripod. HPA!'s on-staff veterinarian provides Cheddar with all the care he needs. Come visit Cheddar and make him all yours!

CLEOPATRA Cleopatra was rescued from the euthanasia list because she had a severe case of demodectic mange. HPA! treated her and placed her with a foster for some tender, loving care, and just look at her transformation! She is now a happy and healthy girl.

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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Cheddar Cleopatra