January/February 2019

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January & February 2019

BODY MIND AND SPIRIT Holistic Care For Our Pets

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Editorial January & February 2019

A

police officer was sitting in his car with his K9 partner in the back seat. A man walked over and asked, “Is that a dog in the back seat?” The officer said, “It sure is.” The man responded, “Wow, what did he do?”

Welcome to one of my resolutions for 2019 - to see the lighter side of things, laugh more, and not take everything so seriously. Laughter is good for your soul, good for your face muscles and it’s contagious, so you are also helping others when you smile. Isn't that an amazing amount of good things that can come from the simple act of being light-hearted?

When I was younger, I would produce an impressive list of New Year’s resolutions that I systematically failed at each year so now I’ve learned to pick one or two and FOCUS on the changes I can make to be satisfied with my results. I must say that laughing more is made easier by my pets.

My dog Jeda is possibly the funniest dog I’ve ever owned and she cracks me up daily with her antics. And, now that I have a horse, he too can be quite comedic when

he grabs my grooming bag and dumps the contents on the ground. I can’t help but laugh because he knows he is being mischievious.

That’s why I love animals. They are entertaining, fascinating, almost always more intelligent than given credit for and each creature is different from the next. (This fascination has resulted in my addiction to the animal planet show, “Secret Life of the Zoo” as well). I love writing about animals in a variety of context and as I began thinking about new ideas for PetTalk in 2019, I realized that the one thing I like to do the most, and one of the reasons I publish PetTalk, is to write about all kinds of species but I get bogged down in marketing, production, events, administration, etc., and I’ve gotten away from writing the essays I enjoy creating. I figured there was no time like the present to remedy the situation so starting with this Jan/Feb double issue, I’m launching a new column called Why I Love Animals where I will be writing about many different types of creatures with the goal of underscoring their value to the ecosystem, what we can do as humans to help them

Holistic Care It's a New Year and the perfect time to assess /plan for your pet's healthy lifestyle. Our feature is full of great content about holistic modalities, from nutrition to body work to aromatherapy and more. I decided to feature this subject after my rescue horse had a serious colic episode and is now in recovery at Wellness Ranch (pictured here) under the supervision of a naturopath Dr. A holistic approach is being employed and he is progressing nicely with nutritious food and lots of love!

and basically point out how cool they are! I hope you enjoy the essays and photos as much as I enjoy producing them.

As we enter a New Year, it’s typical to think of renewing, refining, rejuvenating and looking for ways to be healthier and happier for both ourselves and our pets. To kick off 2019, our feature story highlights holistic care for animals by taking a look at the many modalities that exist to give our pets healthy bodies, sound minds and calm souls. From massage to aromatherapy to herbs, laser, acupuncture and more, approaching our pet’s well being holistically, not just treating symptoms, is a goal we should all have, even for ourselves.

We have lots of other fun things planned for 2019 including special offers for our VIPP Newsletter Subscribers such as exclusive invites, contests, behind the scenes of photoshoots and more...so join the mailing list on our website, houstonpettalk.com, and become part of our pack!

Happy New Year!

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 Cover photo © Dirima © Copyright 2019. 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.

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WHERE

IN THE

WORLD

IS PETTALK?

Catch someone reading their PetTalk as they travel the globe?

Snap a pic and send along with place and name: info@houstonpettalk.com.

Washington D.C. Mike Moriarity and wilfe Melna know how to enjoy the nation's capital - with their PetTalk!

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Paris, France Angel Sampaio is enjoying her copy of PetTalk in the City of Love - Paris.

Thanks for sharing your fun photo Angel!

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A

t the start of the New Year, most of the population is thinking about losing weight and exercising more - unless you are one of those lucky ones that can eat ice cream and chocolate everyday and not gain a pound because you are “blessed with a high metabolism”. (For the record, the rest of us hate you). Given that I fall into the category of “most of the population”, I headed to the tennis club to start my 2019 body reconstruction.

I felt pretty good about myself.

I was wearing my vintage Chrissie Evert dress with the little tennis racquet appliqué and matching appliqué on the shoes. So clever.

Anyway, I was sure everyone was coveting my 1970’s vibe as I trotted onto the court to face my nemesis, Penelope.

To put things into perspective, Penelope grew up playing tennis at “the country club” where she received lessons every summer on meticulously kept rubico courts from a previously goodlooking tennis pro named Gunther. Thirty years ago he was in the top 50 and was a bronzed tennis God which has resulted in his current resemblance to a Sharpei.

But even so, he taught Penelope tennis strokes that were as flawless as her self-image.

Me, on the other hand, grew up playing at the community center where the court tripled as a volleyball and basketball court. I’m pretty sure my racquet was previously hanging on the wall of Bennigan’s.

The net was made of chain-link fence and if you wanted to play a game, the net was taken up and down for each sport.

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Needless to say it was a train wreck. Half the time we just decided to play with no net. Turns out that decision was not good for the advancement of my game.

But, for what I lacked in expensive equipment and top-notch instruction, I made up for with what some might call exuberance. I prefer to think of it as “my sparkle”. Essentially, my tactic is to race around the court whacking the ball with as much strength as I can muster, sometimes switching hands if necessary, while making exotic sounds that even Sharapova would envy. I leap, bound, bob, and bolt around the court to the awe (or some would say horror) of my opponent. It typically works like a charm. The opposing player is so mesmerized by my athleticism that frankly, they forget to swing.

Penelope had heard through the tennis grapevine that my game was “incredible” so she challenged me to an 8 game singles pro set. In my former years, I was only playing ladies doubles league but I had become cynical to the world of Atilla the Hun team captains who scoured the tennis shops for the worst possible team outfits that looked good on HER but made the rest of us look like 10 pounds of sausage squeezed into a 3 pound casing. And oh, don’t get me started on the Mike Tyson school of sportsmanship that essentially says, “when in doubt, call it out”. Or, my favorite is when you finally gel with your doubles partner after a grueling season of near losses (because

she was “off” her game most of the time), all to find she has dropped you like a hot potato for Sally. Is it because Sally has a wicked slice serve? Or because she has a killer volley? No, it’s because she has a 6 bedroom beachfront home in Galveston which she is willing to invite said partner to. So, although I sadly had to leave behind the post league match banquetlevel spread of fancy finger foods and the best chocolate chip cookies one could imagine, alas, I left the doubles world to brave that little yellow ball all by myself.

Besides, I figured, I needed more space than just half the court to achieve my full potential.

So hear I was, facing miss fancy pants with her 6 racquet Nike bag, a jug full of electrolyte replacing fluids and ol’ Gunther standing by to give her unauthorized hand signals. I, however, was feeling extra confident as I channeled Chrissie with my Bennigan’s racquet. I couldn’t wait to get to the Salty Dog to brag about my “put away” of Penelope. What happened next was, shall we say, most inconvenient. I was bouncing back and forth, warming up my muscles buried deep below my outer “sparkle” when Penelope opened the fresh can of balls and trickled them onto the court. I was bouncing on the “up” and, as if in Chariots of Fire slow motion, I saw the yellow orb heading strategically under my beautifully appliquéd tennis shoe, landing perfectly beneath my arch. As my big girl sized body came down upon the ball, the net of it all is that I felt something snap and my sparkle was now a sprain.

Penelope, whose empathy gene rivals Vladimir Lenin, snaps, “Henrietta, are you seriously going to feign injury before we even get started?” To which I reply, “Penelope, kiss my Ace."

Henrietta Illustration by Jim Tweedy, Colorizing by Desiree Lonsway

Henrietta

TENNIS IS MY RACQUET...

LOVE IS MY GAME

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Link Rd

Unleashed CAP CELEBRITY PAWS GALA

A

Celestial Evening theme brought out the angelic looks of guests at the Royal Sonesta, where CAP celebrated its 33rd annual Celebrity Paws Gala. In additoin to fabulous entertainment and dinner, there was something for everyone, including a Wine Pull, photo booth and raffle for a 2019 Crosstrek Subaru, donated by West Houston Subaru. The event raised $650K!

Ernest & Jennifer Sotuyo with Portia

Kappy Muenzer, Franco and Nancy Valobra

Carol Simmons and Hallie Vanderhider

Brook and Julie Brookshire and Carol and Bill Simmons on stage.

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Mark Silberman, Michelle Mantor, Stian Mantor, Kaia Mantor

Photos By Daniel Ortiz

Charles Padgett with Brando

Unleashed

Caring for Hearts... at Both Ends of the Leash!

JINGLE BELL BARK N BREW

T

he annual Jingle Bell Bark N Brew benefitting Greater Houston German Shepherd Rescue at Kirby Ice House was tons of fun with a silent auction, adoptable dogs and photos with Santa. Attendees helped raise money for the rescue who work hard to protect and save German Shepherd Dogs.

Lynda Transier, Marie Schmidt, Coral Artidello, Terri Milsom

Silent Auction

Santa (Joe) with Terri Milsom

West Houston Subaru helped sponsor the event.

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The Dish Events 01.05-06.19

66th Annual Charity Cat Show George R Brown Convention Center 1001 Avenida De Las Americas 10:00pm-5:00pm Join the Feline Fun. Come see a great family cat show and help raise money for the Houston Cat Club. houstoncatclub.org

01.12.19

“Royals” Doggie Day MFA: The Brown Foundation, Inc. Plaza 5101 Montrose Boulevard 1:00pm-4:00pm Dress up your crowd-friendly, leashed dogs in their regal best for a royal pawrade and costume contest with special guest judges.

FOR A FULL LIST OF EVENTS, DOWNLOAD THE FREE APP OR VISIT: WWW.PETTALKGOFETCH.COM

01.20.19

02.09.19

The Lawn at Memorial City Mall 12:00pm-3:00pm Multiple rescue/shelter adoption event.

02.19

Preservation Park 123- F Midway Old Town Spring 11:00am-5:00pm Join a day filled with extraordinary events, pets for adoption, food and much more!

See page 20 for details.

02.13.19

Adopt A Pet

Pet Festival in Old Town Spring

Big Fix Houston

Fix Felix For Free

02.02.19

Puppy Bowl Citizen's for Animal Protection 17333 Katy Freeway 1:00pm-6:00pm Come enjoy the festivities at CAP facilities during this annual aoption event. Fees will be waived. Sponsored by West Houston Subaru. Find out more at cap4pets.org.

Waiting ...

For Yop u soon!

Pick me u

Your new best friend is waiting...

Adopt a schnauzer, and save a life!

Houston Humane Society 14700 Almeda RD. HHS will neuter 700 male cats for free at the Animal Wellness Clinic. Cat owners must have an appointment, and there is a limit of 5 cats per person. To make appointment, visit houstonhumane.org.

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The Dish SPAY/NUETER ANNUAL EVENT

Bigfix Houston Kicks Off Feb. 9

B

ig Fix Houston, a large-scale spay neuter event targeting neighborhoods in Houston with the most complaints of stray and homeless animals kicks off February 9. Pet owners in those areas can sign up for free spay or neuter, vaccinations and microchip services at registration events in nearby parks or community centers.

Partners include Unity for a Solution, BARC, Emancipet, the Houston Humane Society, the Houston SPCA and Citizens for Animal Protection. Big Fix Houston is held in conjunction with World Spay Awareness month, a nationwide effort to promote spay and neuter. It is a project of Unity for Solution, a collaboration of animal welfare groups, civic organizations and businesses working to improve conditions for Houston’s animals. Learn more at bigfighouston.org.

COMMUNITY HELP NEEDED

Birds Stolen From Adventures in Birds

T

he Fall of 2018 was devastating to several local bird shops who were the target of thieves. Rare and expensive birds were stolen, including African Greys and Macaws, and have not been found.

The thieves were recorded on surveillance video and in both cases, appear to be the same person. Adventures in Birds in Spring Branch was one of the targets. Thieves left the gate open, resulting in the shop dog wandering out and getting hit and killed by a car. We are asking Houstonians to please help if you can provide any information. To watch the video of the perpetrators, visit adventuresinbirdsinc.com.

HELPING ANIMALS

Eagle Scout Service Project Helps Wildlife

L

uke'Snelling's Eagle Service Project inadvertently began when his brother Turner rescued an injured baby squirrel from the family's back yard.

This small action sparked an idea, one that would eventually become both of their Eagle Scout Service Projects. After a visit to the Wildlife Center of Texas, Luke and his brother fell in love with all the little critters saved and rehabilitated by this amazing center. Turner gravitated to the raccoons and Luke to the owls. Luke organized and developed plans to build a massive owl enclosure with mandatory regulations set by the state for predatory birds. He raised approximately $2,400 for the project while managing and leading a group of 14 Scouts and volunteers over 2 weekends with a total of 285 volunteer hours completed. Because of Luke's team, owls all over Harris County will be protected and rehabilitated through the Wildlife Center.

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AWARD

PetTalk Editor Michelle Mantor Receives Award from CAP Shelter

C

ittizen's for Animal Protection awarded PetTal k Publisher and Editor, Michelle Mantor, with the "Share The Love " award, at their annaual Celebrity Paws Gala. The award is inspired by generosity and commitment to CAP and commitment to the Houston animal community.

The award is presented each year

by Frank and Gloria Meszaros of West Houston Subaru, who were the first recipients of the award. Thank you to CAP for recognizing those in the community that are working to help the animals that cannot help themselves.

PET PORTRAITS

Kristel Peale

AWARD

Local Vet Wins Small Business Regional Award

by in watercolor or acrylic

A

nimal ER of Northwest Houston was named the 2018 Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year by the Lone Star College Small Business Development Center at its 32nd Annual Small Business of the Year Award Luncheon in November. Dr. Hennessey-Bremseth clinched the award with her cross ountry dommunity donations and hurricane relief efforts this year. Animal ER was selected out of almost 200 small businesses in the Gulf Coast regioin.

Congratulations to the Animal ER team, one of PetTalk's sponsors, for their dedication to animals everywhere!

MAKE GREAT GIFTS Dr Jennifer Hennessey Bremseth, DVM, CVJ, CAPM, (CCRP, CCMT), Mrs Texas Legacy US

FOR ANY OCCASION! 713 467-0312 peale@sbcglobal.net

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Tails of Love A PETTALK PHOTO CONTEST

W

SPONSORED BY BINGLE VET

e all love our pets, and this February we want you to tell us your "Tail of Love" with a photo!

Submit a photo of your pet (or with your pet), showing the bond you share. From kisses and hugs to kibbles and bits, we want to see your best representation of the shared love between pets and people.

The winner will receive $200 BINGLE BUCKS for veterinary services at Bingle Vet, plus your winning photo will be published in Houston PetTalk Magazine!

The contest entry period is February 1-15, and voting will take place from February 1623. Public voting determines top entries, and the winner will be selected by Bingle Vet. Runners Up will also be published in PetTalk.

ABOUT BINGLE VET Bingle Vet is a family-owned veterinary practice committed to the compassionate care of pets while providing impeccible service to pet parents at two locations: Spring Branch/Memorial (2025 Bingle Rd. Houston, TX 77055) and Katy (5215 FM 1463, Ste. 400, Katy, TX 77494).

Check out their 10-Minute Guarantee and homemade cookies - they want to make sure you and your pet leave their clinic happy! Bingle Vet has been serving Houston for over 20 years and we thank them for sponsoring this year's Tails of Love Photo Contest! Visit them online at binglevet.com.

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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#ShareWithUs!

FEATURED THIS MONTH:

BEST FURRENDS, IS THAT ME? AND THE HOWL-IDAYS

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!

1. Sarendip1ty Three amigos…

2. houston_airdoodles I live for the nights I can’t remember, with the pups I can’t forget! #Drake Follow my besties @ houstonweims 3. stellarmarshmallowdoodle Happy Barkday to my furst Friend! I’d have a picnic with you any day @cavapoo_harper 4. Shadow_and_milo Look!

It’s a baby version of meee #AlongCameShadow 5. dogsdontlitter We went for a walk tonight @discoverygreen, thanks to the cold weather the park was for ourselves. Look what we found, @rogersewardart made a painting of Lucas!! Thank you Roger!! What do you think???

Who looks better??

6. Jackson_the_dalmation That face you make when you show up to work in the same outfit as your coworker.

7. Itsa_huskyworld We are so excited for the holidays we can’t stop smiling!!!!

8. rou_ga_rouxs_boy When the clock is striking twelve, When I’m fast asleep Don the chimney, broad and black, with your pack you’ll creep. All the stockings you will find Hanging in a row Mine will be the shortest (“biggest”) one, You’ll be sure to know…. Eagerly waiting Santa Paws this year 9. doethecobberdog #TBT to our favorite Santa from last year… He likes a good naughty list

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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City Council Member Karla Cisneros Advocates For Animals During The Month of February Dear Animal Friends & Animal Advocates,

I

invite you to be part of the Love Your Pet initiative targeting Houston and Harris County, a project which will include a series of events and opportunities during the month of February 2019 in conjunction with the annual, international World Spay Month. Pet overpopulation is a serious public health, public safety and quality of life concern for many Houstonians.

We have too many stray dogs and cats on our streets, and shelters and rescue organizations are overburdened.

In addition to highlighting the importance of spaying and neutering, Love Your Pet will work to improve overall animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. I hope you will join me in bringing residents, community groups, animal welfare organizations, the City, and the County together to raise awareness on this important issue.

I also ask your help in spreading the message on the important reasons for spay and neuter: Your pet will be less likely wander or be aggressive; spayed/ neutered pets reduce animal overpopulation; your pet will be healthier, happier and have a longer life. Join the movement and use our hashtags: #spayneuterhtx, #loveyourpet, and #houharrisunity Below is the current timeline of Love Your Pet events so far. It is my hope that you and your organization will be inspired to hold your own Love Your Pet event or join an existing one. ❖ 1/31/2019: Press Conference Kickoff for Love Your Pet, Legacy Room, City Hall, 11:00am ❖ 2/5/2019: Proclamation for Harris County Animal Task Force, Council Chambers, City Hall, 1:30pm ❖ 2/9/2019: Second Saturday Arts Market benefitting Big Fix Houston, The Market at Sawyer Yards, 2101 Winter Street, 9:00am to 5:00pm ❖ 2/9/2019: Big Fix Houston Sign-Up Day in targeted communities hosted by Unity for a Solution, 10:00 am to noon ❖ 2/12/2019: Proclamation for Empty the Shelter Project, Council Chambers, City Hall, 1:30pm ❖ 2/14/2019: Valentine’s Day Pet Transport hosted by Houston PetSet ❖ 2/16/2019: Love Your Pet Conference, Moody Park Community Center, 10:00am to 2:00pm ❖ 2/19/2019: Proclamation for Houston PetSet, Council Chambers, City Hall, 1:00pm ❖ 2/28/2019: Press Conference to recognize Love Your Pet Rescue Selfie Contest Winners, Legacy Room, City Hall, 11:00am ❖ 3/2/2019: Empty the Shelter Project hosted by K9 Angels, Denver Harbor Community Center Should you have an interest in participating in some way or just want more information, please contact my office as soon as possible. I look forward to the possibility of collaboration.

Sincerely, Karla Cisneros City Council Member, District H

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Body Mind and spirit

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Holistic Care For Our Pets I

By: Michelle Mantor & Contributing Writers

t's officially a new year which means many of us will have changes we want to make to our lives or try new things by opening our minds to possibilities. One important area you might want to evaluate is your pet's health. Is your dog or cat in good shape or are they overweight? Does your pet get enough exercise and mental stimulation to stave of boredom or even destructive behaviors? Does your pet have arthritis or a bad back? Are regular veterinary examinations part of your pet care routine?

Being mom or dad to a pet can bring lots of joy, entertainment and love to your life but it is also important to remember that since your pet can't speak your language, it's up to you to recognize health needs, both mental and physical. That parental responsibility is why we are challenging you at the start of the new year to assess your pet's well-being from a holistic perspective, meaning body, mind and spirit. In addition to veterinary care, there are many other modalities that you can employ in the quest for a wellbalanced and healthy pet.

The idea of a holistic approach to health is that, through medicine, chemistry, religion and simple life experiences, one cannot deny a connection between the physical being, the emotional self and the spirit. Taking this knowledge into account has begun to shift our thinking, for both ourselves and our pets, toward modalities that integrate the whole being,

thus healing at the core level rather than masking problems with temporary symptom treatment.

WHAT IS HOLISTIC ANIMAL CARE? Holistic animal care looks at the whole animal – the body (physical), mind (mental and emotional), and soul (spiritual). Each is an integral part that plays a vital role in the animal’s overall health. In other words, animals get stressed out just like we do.

To further explain the “science” behind holistic practices, Einstein stated that any physical matter is composed of energy, which includes people and animals. Going further, people and animals are composed mostly of water and water is sensitive to vibration, a subtle form of energy. So, if water is sensitive to energy and people and animals are mostly water, then any energy based healing modality has the ability to have a profound impact on a physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual level. The different modalities are commonly referred to as methods, practices, remedies, or therapies.

In our feature, we are providing an introduction to a number of therapies for you to explore with your pet. We have asked some of our sponsors to also tell us about their services, thus giving you the knowledge and resources to partner with your pet in their overall well-being.

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Acupuncture

By Julia Spade DVM, CHPV, cVMA, Co-written by Erica Sandberg, DVM, lastwishes.com

I

n the world we live in today, our pets are family. And as with any family member, we will search for ways to improve the quality of life for our pets.

Acupuncture and laser therapy are alternative therapies that can significantly improve quality of life for pets with a variety of conditions. Some people may already know about the potential benefits of these therapies. However, if you are not familiar with these options, here is a brief overview of these alternative treatments.

ACUPUNCTURE: Pet acupuncture assists in the treatment of a multitude of conditions including cancer, osteoarthritis, digestive conditions, and neurological disorders. Current research confirms that the 3,000-year-old Chinese technique of acupuncture is a valuable healing tool.

The main therapeutic effects of medical acupuncture occur by stimulating nerve fibers near the acupuncture points. With the stimulation of nerves at the level of the skin, signals are sent to the spinal cord and brain to help with pain control, improve immunity, digestion, mood, and many more functions. Acupuncture is performed by a qualified professional, with thin, sterile needles placed along channels on your pet’s body. We have adapted these channels from the ancient Chinese to “fit” the body type of dogs and cats. Many pets do not even notice these small needles being placed in their skin.

LASER THERAPY: Laser therapy, or “photobiomodulation”, works at the cellular level to cause reactions within the cells leading to decreased inflammation. Laser therapy is performed with a wand that emits light. This wand is gently rubbed over your pet in the affected area(s). Laser therapy is prescribed for certain conditions after a thorough physical examination and consultation.

Often acupuncture and laser therapy are

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combined to treat certain conditions, and this has been found to be especially useful for pets with arthritis. Dogs and cats with osteoarthritis can benefit from these combined therapies thanks to significant decreases in inflammation, pain and muscle tension.

The veterinary staff of Last Wishes offer these treatment options in the comfort of our patients’ homes. There are numerous benefits for at-home treatments. Here are the top reasons to consider at-home alternative medical treatments: COMFORT & RELAXATION: One of the goals for acupuncture and laser therapies should be relaxation. Your dog or cat can relax in their favorite spot in their own home; whether this is a couch in the living room or a bed on the kitchen floor. They are at their highest level of comfort when in their own environment. Pets feel better when they can be at home and in the presence of their family. And, they can get their favorite snacks immediately after treatments!

NO CAR RIDES: Many dogs love to ride in the car. However, for patients with arthritis, a car ride can often mean a flare up of pain and inflammation. Patients who are nauseous due to chemotherapy can have worsened symptoms due to the motion of the car. Avoiding these stressful factors can be very beneficial for your pet.

TIME: At-home therapies allow the doctor and staff to sit in traffic, thus allowing you to be less stressed. As you may know, your stress levels directly affect your pets. This way, you can be a confident and calming presence that assists your pet during treatments.

The at-home benefits are significant, but we know that patient caregivers report benefits of alternative therapies regardless of whether they are conducted in the home or in an office. If your pet has a chronic condition or illness, contact your vet to discuss the benefits of acupuncture and laser therapies.

AROMAtherapy

A

romatherapy has been around for thousands of years, but in the last decade, there has been an incredible growth of this practice for both pets and people. The sale of diffusers, essential oils and other accessories has created an array of companies offering oils - but not all are created equal. Before you start using essential oils, do your homework to be sure you are purchasing the highest quality because in the practice of aromatheapy, quality matters!

Aromatherapy is created when essential oils are extracted from the flowers, leaves, bark, roots, stems, seeds, or fruit of a plant. The use of aromatherapy dates back to Egypt, over 5,000 years ago.

Documented veterinary remedies date back to the 18th century. Essential oils are considered antiseptic, antimicrobial, detoxifying, and rejuvenating.

Some holistic vets and animal massage practitioners use essential oils with their clients. They can help your pet with emotional issues such as anxiety, nervousness, stress, and those that are hormone related. They are used to help resolve physical issues such as skin problems, joint conditions, digestive problems, respiratory conditions, and circulatory problems. Oils are commonly used in natural flea repellents and fly spray.

Aromatherapy can be administered several ways.

The oils are either inhaled from the bottle or your hands, diluted in a carrier oil and rubbed into your pet’s skin, or diluted in water and sprayed. Because the oils are potent, is best not to use them directly on small animals or cats. However, you can dilute the oils with water in a spray bottle and spray it in a room your pet hangs out in, not just directly on them. Even though oils are considered natural, they are strong and some animals can have allergic reactions to their skin if applied topically.

Not all oils are recommended for pets so before you use an oil, be sure to understand if it is appropriate for your species of pet. Tracie Osborn, owner of BeeWell at 14503 Memorial, says, "Lavender, for example provides nice relaxing benefits to dogs, but can be toxic to cats. Oils affect each species differently, as does the dosage and application type, so it's best to consult an expert to be safe." BeeWell offers high quality oils and diffusers plus Tracie is very knowledgeable and can show you how to create oil blends using carrier oils or sprays or whatever application process is best for your lifestyle with your pet. BeeWell also has amazing products and services for humans including clean, natural skin and hair care products plus massage and infrared sauna. To order oils via phone or learn more, visit beewell832.com.

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Canine Massage J ust like people, pets can benefit from the act of massage both physically and mentally. Local canine massage company, Unwound Hounds Animal Massage, provides in-home massage therapy using a variety of bodywork techniques to improve your animal's overall wellness, comfort, and quality of life, as well as guidance on ways you can help your dog feel comfortable and confident at home with simple accommodations.

Many of the wonderful benefits humans enjoy from massage also apply to our four-legged companions, offering whole-body support for dogs of any age.

The techniques used during a massage provide the body with support for the musculoskeletal, immune, digestive, circulatory, and nervous systems. Initial visits begin with a detailed health history, as well as assessments of their gait and conformation. In addition, communication with your veterinarian and any additional care providers ensures a massage that is tailored to your pet and their specific needs. Massage therapy works well alongside appropriate veterinary care, as it aims to support the body's natural

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By: Amy Bronstad, unwoundhounds.com

capabilities in its quest for balance and overall wellness.

Massage for healthy, active dogs can help alleviate occasional aches from tight muscles and promote increased flexibility, while dogs who struggle with anxiety or recent changes in their environment (e.g., adoption, moving homes, new children or pets in the family) can benefit from massage with an emphasis on relaxation and support for the immune system.

Massage is also beneficial for dogs living with chronic health conditions, limited mobility, or approaching the end of life.

Techniques for dogs with various health conditions may focus on relief of pain and inflammation, reducing fluid buildup, supporting the immune system, stimulating muscles, and stabilizing joints.

Unwound Hounds owner, Amy Bronstad, is a nationally certified and insured small animal massage practitioner with specialty training in rehabilitative and geriatric animal massage. She offers daytime, evening, and weekend appointments with ample time to provide optimal care and attention to each client.

NUTRITION By: Dr. Cassie Schuster, ND Wellness Ranch

HOLISTIC, WHOLE FOOD DIET FOR PETS The swish of a tail, the clicakity-clack of nails on the kitchen floor, the anticipation of seeing a favorite bowl or dish means one thing...feeding time!

Admit it: we love feeding and treating our beloved fur kids. We spend oodles of time and money on food, with many of us equating food with love.

Over time we begin to see just what our love is doing to our animal’s health.

We have questions and we seek answers.

As a certified traditional naturopath, I am often asked how to switch over from

feeding dry kibble or canned food to a more natural lifestyle known as a “holistic or whole food” diet.

A “holistic, whole food” diet is food in its original form, with nothing added or changed. A whole food diet is rich in naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other vital bits and pieces your dog and cat need every single day.

Examples of whole foods include: ❖ Beef, chicken, buffalo, duck, or fish – the real thing, not “meal” or “flavorings”. ❖ Real chunks of apple, real pieces of berries or other fiber-filled fruits versus

❖

❖

synthetic chemical flavorings.

Meaningful bits and pieces of vegetables versus “pomace”, the pulpy, gloopy material left after juicing inferior vegetables/fruit.

Named oils such as coconut, olive, or sesame oil versus “vegetable” oil (a cheap version of combined leftover oils).

WHERE DO I START? For the sake of this article, we are going to assume that you have a desire to feed a “natural diet”, but you’re not sure how to start. You know about reading Houston PetTalk Magazine

33

labels. You know what foods your pet needs to avoid (wheat, corn, soy, etc.) and you are ready to actually cook for your animals.

The best advice is to start your holistic, whole food diet in small steps. For the typical dog or cat in good health, you can: ❖ Replace poor protein sources (beef/ chicken “meal”) with the real thing. ❖ Add one new fruit or veggie per week for the first month (this allows the gut to adjust to the addition of fiber). ❖ Avoid starches and empty calories - no more cheap treats or junky table scraps like bread or mashed potatoes!

If you did those things alone, you would greatly enhance your pet’s digestion, calorie intake, and overall health!

A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

All Natural Treats:

Looking for all natural, healthy treats for your pet but don’t feel like taking the time to make them yourself? Look no further than Three Dog Bakery in Rice Village!

Their newly opened bakery has fresh treats made daily that are not only made with healthy ingredients, but they are beautifully designed as well. Choose from treats, cookies and even cakes for special occasions.

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The biggest fear I find is people worried about “balancing” the nutrition. Guess what? Nature does a great job of that for you. So, by offering your pet a variety of foods, in a variety of colors, textures, and tastes, you are automatically providing a rainbow of naturally occurring nutrients in his diet.

Dogs and cats love protein, so start

your meal planning with a portion of lean cooked poultry, beef, or fish. Add to that some low calorie, high fiber vegetables such as shredded zucchini and yellow squash, and diced celery. Add a splash of olive oil and you have a super healthy meal any fur kid would love. And yes, cats will eat this, too!

In summary, a holistic, whole food diet is: ❖ simple food without chemicals or additives ❖ a variety of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and fiber ❖ provides naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, and other vital nutrition to maintain good health Dr. Cassie is a CTN (certified traditional naturopath),MH (master herbalist), CNC (certified nutritional counselor) at Wellness Ranch Equine Center where PetTalk editor’s rescue horse Freedom is recovering and after a serious colic.

Cassie is restoring his body through all natural foods that she prepares daily, plus love and good vibes!

Keeping It Real With Raw

R

aw food for our pets is not a new concept but what is new is the plethora of companies offering raw diets for both dogs and cats.

There is proven science behind feeding raw but the DIY version can be fraught with issues of not providing a balanced diet through proper amounts of vitamins and nutrients, not to mention it is also time consuming. No worries because there are a number of raw diets on the market that take the burden of a balanced diet and time management off your hands.

One Houston company, Wag Tantrum, is offering an organic, human-grade dog food featuring fresh ingredients with proven clinical results and a flavor dogs will enjoy. The food is Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and veterinary approved, and contains the proper blend of nutrients for dogs at any stage of life.

Wag Tantrum currently offers two products – Adult Wag and TheraWag, both an organic wet dog food. Adult Wag is formulated for active, adult dogs, and TheraWag, which requires a veterinarian prescription, is a highprotein dog food formula designed for dogs recovering from surgery or illness. Customers can shop online at wagtantrum.com for home delivery.

East Meets West

By Trace Menchaca, Flying M Feed, flyingmfeedco.com

HYDROPONIC FARMING FOR PETS...IT’S A COMMUNITY “GRRRRDEN!”

O

ne of my favorite parts of our store is our indoor hydroponic farm. At Flying M Feed Co, we have 5 hydroponic & aeroponic towers in which we grow a variety of greens for both people and pets. We have tried many different experimental crops but have found that the leafy greens have been the most bountiful for us. Our current planting includes kale, rainbow chard, bok choy, bibb lettuce, cat grass, basil, cilantro, chamomile, and green beans. Our most popular crop for pets is without a doubt our big beautiful kale leaves.

One thing we love to do for customers is take an economy bag of kibble and

make it a much healthier (and still very affordable option) by adding goats milk or kefir and fresh kale from our “farm”. We always offer a bundle of greens free for first timers and then $5 a bundle afterwards. We have gotten great feedback from our customers and are proud to offer this unique “product.”

They love to share our tasty clean greens with

their fur babies and we have become a goto for “growceries”. Because of this, our goal for 2019 is to expand our farms and offer even more options to the community.

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HOLISTIC MEDICINE THE VETERINARY PERSPECTIVE

H

oHolistic (or alternative) therapy is being sought out more and more by pet owners wanting other options besides traditional medications. Holistic therapies use many Eastern medicine methods and techniques. These include herbal extracts, supplements, and acupuncture and are luckily becoming more accepted in regular medicine.

Holistic therapies support the whole body. When one body system is not optimally functioning, ailments can develop and be expressed within a completely different system. Traditional medicine is designed to treat symptoms, yet sometimes does not get to the core of the disease or condition and can lead to recurrence of the symptoms. For example, a patient with skin allergies would most likely be treated in regular medicine with a drug to control the allergy and an antibiotic for the secondary infection. This is a good start but it is treating the skin only. Holistic therapies would also examine and treat the endocrine system and gastrointestinal tract if these are struggling. A healthy liver detoxifies the body and healthy intestines block the absorption of allergens that can trigger the skin

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By: Melinda D. Luper DVM, Fur and Feathers Veterinary Hospital

allergies.

Another major aspect of holistic therapy involves quality nutrition. Most traditional pet foods have been highly processed to the extent of nutrients need to be added back in due to the destruction during the manufacturing. Holistic

A sample of supplements offered by Fur & Feather Veterinary Hospital

methods may include using fresh ingredients for home-cooked and raw diets but this needs to be under the supervision of a veterinarian to make sure all nutritional aspects are being properly met and balanced.

Both traditional and holistic therapies have their place in treating ailments. I have found an integrated approach allows the best of both worlds. Traditional Western medicine methods are wonderful to treat symptoms quickly, and a holistic

approach sets up for better overall health and prevents symptoms from reoccurring.

At Fur & Feather Veterinary Hospital, we treat and support the whole body. For example, take our skin allergy case. We still use traditional medications such as antibiotics if a secondary bacterial skin infection is present.

But our initial assessment can also include blood work to look for any underlying issues such as liver inflammation or an endocrine imbalance. We support these systems with herbal supplements. We also assess nutrition to see if this could be the cause of an inflamed or leaky gastrointestinal tract.

Cooling proteins such as duck or rabbit are used since allergies are considered

by Chinese medicine to be a hot disease causing red, inflamed skin. We also eliminate other triggers in the diet and choose the least processed food that a client is comfortable feeding their pet. Â Once all of the systems are brought back into harmony, symptoms not only resolve, they have less chance to return. A healthy body makes for healthy and happy pets!

JOIN OUR PACK FOR SPECIAL OFFERS & THE INSIDE SCOOP The VIPP (Very Important PetTalk Parents) Newsletter is Bi-Monthly and gives you the chance to enter contests, win prizes, redeem coupons and even get behind the scenes photoshoot peeks. Sign up at our DogHouse on the web at houstonpettalk.com

Houston’s Definitive Source For Pet Lovers

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Chiropractic A

nimal chiropractic is a natural, drug-free approach to pet health care. In conjunction with regular veterinary care, chiropractic care can enhance performance, movement, and well being by restoring normal range of motion to your animal's joints. Chiropractic is most successful when viewed as preventive care, not a modality to employ when something has gone wrong. It addresses the problems resulting from imbalances, typically in the skeletal, muscular and nervous systems, Chiropractic can offer increased mobility in pets as well as reduce pain or even improve performance for pets that compete in sports.

Dr. Robin Robinett of Veterinary Chiropractic and Rehabilitation Clinic (vetchiroandrehab.com), who is a certified veterinary chiropractic, a certified veterinary acupuncturist and certified equine rehabilitation technologist,

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provides rehabilitation services for both large and small animals. VCRC also employs water-based treadmills along with many other types of equipment to get optimal results.

Their supportive therapies can help with musculoskeletal conditions like arthritis, neuropathy, and dysplasia, organ system issues such as renal and liver insufficiencies and cancer, and recovery from an injury or surgery.

Begun at any life stage, holistic, supportive veterinary care can not only alleviate aches and pains but also help enrich and prolong your pet's life by treating the whole patient, not just the symptoms. If you feel your pet can benefit from chiropractic care, set up an appointment for an evaluation - it may be one of the best gifts you can give your pet, a balanced system!

CHILL

OUT SLOW YOUR ROLL

Isle of Dogs makes these great treats designed with natural relaxants, like lavender and vanilla, that will help your pup feel as groovy as you do. Get your own dog bliss-cuits at Petco pet stores nationwide. petco.com.

SPRAY AWAY STRESS JUST CHILLIN'

If your pup is a nervous nelly, a hemp based calming chew from SuperSnouts can be the calming factor your pet needs. Available at Patti's Pet Depot, pattispetdepot.com.

Valerian, Chamomile, Hops, Passion Flower, and Scull Cap make this a real relaxant for pups. Use it to treat anxiety before vet visits, bath time, or other stressful times. The active ingredients work great, plus you can easily get this solution at any Petco store.

KEEP THOSE SENSITIVE TUMMIES CALM Finally, a pet food focused on sustainable, bioavailable, humane-conscious quality of raw food for cats and dogs! Answers Pet Food emphasizes a more humane way to source farm animals in the pet food industry while offering exceptional diets. Their line includes a limited ingredient food for sensitive tummies. Now available at Patti's Pet Depot, located at the corner of Memorial and Dairy Ashford. pattiespetdepot.com.

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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A Colic Story

M

any of you are familiar with the paint stallion, (now gelding), I rescued in 2016, who I named Freedom.

Our story was chronicled in the January/February 2018 issue along with a video that introduced the people who helped me save him. One of those angels was Renee Adair, a natural horsemanship and EEL trainer. In September of this year, Freedom returned to Renee’s home for a couple of months because he was sunburning and her place is lush with trees. While there, Freedom gave us quite a health scare.

The story is rather fascinating and I wanted to share it with you because I think it highlights the power of medicine, body work, teamwork, relationships, synchronicity and prayer. Here is the story as told by Renee.

Painful colic after arriving at Waller Equine

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In the wee hours of the morning on October 29, it was still pitch black outside as I headed to the barn to feed the horses. I turned the exterior barn lights on first since they light the landscape gradually, giving the horses’ eyes a chance to adjust. I first let the mares in the barn then went back to let the boys in.

When I opened the gate, Dally, my 14 yr. old gelding and TeRado, my 18 month old colt, casually walked in.

Freedom, who is always ready to come in at feeding time, rolled and didn’t get

up. I immediately knew he was colicking.

From past experience, I knew mild gas colic was not abnormal for him and typically a dose of banamine to help muscles relax was enough to get him through it.

On this particular weekend, I was taking a two-day course on the Masterson Method, a form of body work that encourages improved motion by partnering with the horse and moving joints in a relaxed state. During the clinic the previous day, I had heard someone mention the “underthe-tail-points” were good in a colic situation. After I fed the other 4, I started applying the technique. By 7am, he was looking better. I left to get ready. At 8am, I checked on him one more time before leaving and he was down again.

I let the clinic organizer know I was going to be late, then called Michelle to tell her the situation. By 11am, Freedom still wasn’t his normal self, so I took him to Waller Equine. The plan was to leave him for observation and for them to intervene if he wasn’t improving.

During one of the breaks, I saw a missed text from Michelle. Dr. Beadle wanted to put him on fluids, what did I think? Fortunately, when she didn’t hear back from me, Michelle made the executive decision for fluids and sedation.

Fast forward to the end of the day, my clinic colleagues asked about Freedom as we prepared to leave. I shared what I knew, which wasn’t much, and ended with, “I hope and pray this isn’t how Michelle and Freedom’s journey ends.” After we dismissed, a fellow classmate shared a video of another colic-release-point.

When I arrived at Waller Equine at 7:00pm, Michelle hadn’t been there long and Freedom was on the ground looking as if he’d given up. I thought they had just sedated him, but later learned the

By Renee Adair, equiaccel.com

Multiple Modalities Proved Successful sedation was two hours earlier.

Freedom had continued to decline throughout the day and without sedation, he was rolling in pain. The diagnosis was an impaction colic in the large intestine.

He was hooked up to IV fluids, but if we waited too long, part of his intestine could die, creating other complications.

Many factors were considered with the vet’s recommendation, and Dr. Beadle strongly recommended surgery or be ready to euthanize if surgery wasn’t financially an option (colic surgery and after-care can range from $6K to $10K, then specialized care is required for up to 4 months after surgery). Dr. Beadle gave us space to discuss the options, none of them good.

We all stood in Freedom’s stall, talking to him and coaxing him to fight while simultaneously trying to make a decision.

Surgery felt like the direction to go, but I had to face the hard reality that I could not take care of Freedom after surgery.

Michelle was weighing her options.

In a leap of faith, I told Michelle that if Freedom was meant to have surgery, the solution would present itself.

While Michelle contacted potential post-surgical caregivers, I sat down behind Freedom and started working the under-the-tail-points again. He went into a series of yawns and after some time, Freedom stood. I was happy he was up, now I could find the points my classmate shared with me. Freedom had more releases, including passing gas. It’s not often I’m happy to have gas passed in my face, but this was one!

At 9:30pm, someone said they could take Freedom for post-surgery care. For me, a huge weight lifted to know it was an option.

By that time, Freedom was looking better so we asked to take him for a walk.

After several doses of medication, Freedom finally stands but is still in pain.

Walking can sometimes help get things moving. When he was asked to move earlier, he couldn’t because of the intense pain. Thankfully, this time he felt well enough to walk with us.

After the walk and reconnection to his IV, the staff checked his reflux, determined the level of reflux had decreased and took the tube out of his nose.

(Rather than re-insert the tube when there is a colic, they will leave the tube in until the horse shows specific signs of improvement).

By midnight, he was looking much improved. We were all exhausted. Freedom had turned around while we were there, but the question remained-would he get depressed if we left and regress?

Michelle and I gave in to the exhaustion and decided to leave.

The next morning, Michelle received a call from Dr. Beadle with the news “she had a miracle pony”. He had passed

manure and seemed to be turning the corner.

When Michelle and I arrived at 10am Monday, he no longer had his IV. Though he looked much better, he still seemed off. We took him for a walk, and since he was eager to move out we went to the round pen. With patience and encouragement, I was able to get him to lower his head while he moved. In the equine world, a low head can help with relaxation.

After we were back in the stall, I resumed the Masterson Method. When I started the under-the-tail points, he pushed into me. There was no question I had the right spot. When I took my hand away, Freedom proceeded to chase me around the stall, hiney first. I can only imagine how we looked to the casual observer. At one point when I wouldn’t do his bidding, he backed up against his water bucket to hit the point he wanted, Houston PetTalk Magazine

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On day two, after pain meds, IV fluids, body work and lots of prayers, Freedom is not out of the woods but doing much better.

then dropped a few small manure balls in his water. Clearly, he knew what he needed to get his system moving. I continued to apply the Masterson Techniques until about 1pm.

Dr. Cassie Schuster, owner of Wellness Ranch and naturopathic doctor, resides very close to Waller Equine so Michelle and I paid her a visit. The intent of the visit was to see if she could provide support if Freedom stayed at my place. We had already been in conversation with Dr. Cassie concerning the imbalances in his system evidenced by the sunburn and repeated gas colics. The possibility of Freedom going to Wellness Ranch for a few months to see if she could rebalance his system through naturopathy, had been discussed. Michelle and I left Wellness Ranch with the good news Freedom could become one of her patients.

When Michelle and I met back at Waller Equine at 3:00, Freedom still had not passed much manure. Dr. Cassie gave Michelle her low-level-red-light-laser and Michelle applied it along his bladder

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meridian. When she finished, he passed a couple of manure balls. After Michelle finished, I resumed applying to other parts of the body, what I had been taught over the weekend. When we finished, he left a nice present…the best manure pile I had seen from him since the nightmare began.

Michelle and I parted at 5pm. Since I live close to Waller Equine, I told her I would swing by around 8pm to check on him. On the drive home, I hit a figurative wall. I called Michelle to tell her I wasn’t going to make it back that night. My body was done. Freedom was in God’s hands.

Tuesday, the hospital re-introduced food. Everything went well, so he was able to come back to my house that afternoon. Three diagnoses strike fear in

Day three, Freedom gets to go home!

the heart of every horse owner: laminitis, founder and colic. All three at best can create management issues and at worse, death. Even with all the equine medical community knows and continues to learn, there are still cases where horses should have survived and don’t, and horses that shouldn’t have survived and do. What can cause the pendulum to swing one way for one horse and the other for another? We will probably never know. I firmly believe Freedom’s recovery was the perfect combination of things: the extraordinary vet care he received, the applications of the Masterson Method, the use of the red light, the knowledge Michelle and I were there to fight with and for him, and last, but certainly not least, prayer. Our Creator put together the perfect orchestra for the benefit of one pony. His rough start that caused him to be seized by the Houston Humane Society opened the door for an amazing woman to adopt him. Their journey continues to create connections and touch lives in ways unimaginable.

Read Dr. Cassie’s article on page 33 to learn more about holistic diets for pets.

Duke

Fetch is better at the beach!

Providing Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals on Galveston Island since 1974.

409.797.5500 • sandnsea.com

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Spacious Lobby

Growing to New Heights

I

n a world full of carefully crafted marketing messages and social media pervasiveness, it’s sometimes hard to discern between true quality and embellishment. And when it comes to our pets, we definitely want quality care and products for our furry family members. So how do we weed out the hype from authenticity?

During a recent visit to Meadowlake 48

www.houstonpettalk.com

Meadowlake Pet Resort & Training Center Opens Second Location By: Michelle Mantor Photos By: Tay Lee Photography

Pet Resort and Training Center, I found myself thinking about this conundrum and after my visit was over, it was satisfying to learn their facility is truly a superb option for pet owners and definitely the “real deal”. Meadowlake exemplifies success in the pet industry, which is bred by the quality of caring services and programs they provide.

Carroll Ray, Owner of Meadowlake, stops by the cattery for a visit.

My visit was precipitated by the fact that they recently opened a second location in the Galleria area at 6393 Richmond Avenue. The second location was opened in response to an abundance of client requests. Many Meadowlake customers, who truly appreciated their hands-on, valuable services, were willing to drive a long distance to their south Houston location which opened in 2009.

However, they were rooting for a location closer to their residences. ”We had so many of our customers voice their opinion on how much they loved Meadowlake that they were willing to visit us in our first location, but I kept hearing the rally cry of ‘when are you going to open a location closer to us’? So we decided if we had that many clients clamoring for a second location, we should oblige”, says owner of Meadowlake, Carroll Ray, with a smile.

As I pulled into the parking lot, I immediately got a sense for why clients are loyal customers of the Meadowlake brand. The building was purchased and completely renovated with pet safety, fun, a full array of services and convenience for owners in mind. The lobby is spacious and bright with plenty of smiling employees ready to greet everyone that walks through the door, both two-legged and four-legged. And of course no lobby

The foundation of Meadowlake’s services include daycare, training, grooming and lodging. Cats get in on the action for lodging and grooming as well. would be complete without some fun toys and treats for the four-leggers to do a little shopping.

The foundation of Meadowlake’s services include daycare, training, grooming and lodging. Cats get in on the action for

lodging and grooming as well.

Starting with lodging, there are 100 spacious suites and all dogs have an opportunity to go outside for a little potty break or play. Lodging guests can also experience additional services such as

Daycare playtime Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Pampering In The Salon

story time, private play or group play.

Daycare is also an important element of the quality offerings at Meadowlake.

The daycare program is divided by group size as well as temperament. One of the things I found very appealing is that the evaluation for daycare is FREE, plus clients can give the daycare program a try for one week at no cost. Now that is confidence in the quality of your program!

Another exciting service at Meadowlake that many dog owners desire is an effective training program. As much as we love our pups, having them be well mannered and obedient makes the relationship much more enjoyable and also allows us to take them more places with us. The training program at Meadowlake includes lodge & learn, as well as private classes by award-winning instructors with extensive years of experience and provable results. The lodge & learn program can be anywhere from 5 to 30 days. Once your dog has graduated, they can participate in continuing education in a group environment. I watched the two trainers give a demonstration with their dogs and it was awe-inspiring. I was ready to run home and get my dog and sign her up LOL! In addition to lodging, play, and training, Meadowlake knows the importance of spa days and pampering for

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our canines and kitties. The grooming salon offers everything from a brush and bath, to de-shedding with the fulminator system, to a full spa day with blueberry facials…all provided by a fantastic groomer with over 20 years of experience.

To say I was impressed with my visit would be an understatement - from the new 2-story facility replete with 24 hour onsite staff, to the hospital grade VAC system, to the attention to detail and safety and skill level of the staff, Meadowlake exceeds expectations. “We are so excited about this new facility and the great start we’ve

Lodging

experienced since opening in November.

But as great as our current level of services is, we still have more up our sleeve”, laughs Laura Koch, Manager at Meadowlake.

Peaking my interest of course, I prodded for more! She followed up with, “Not to spoil the surprises, but I’ll give you a couple of tidbits. Future plans include in-home training and valet service so daycare pets can be taken right from the owner’s car without them having to come inside. That’s just a few of our planned amenities.”

I for one am looking forward to the reveal of other services but honestly, what

Shopping for enticing treats!

Future plans include inhome training and valet service so daycare pets can be taken right from the owner’s car without them having to come inside.

Meadowlake already offers is any pet’s dream experience. I’m happy to report that there is no false bravado or marketing over-hype at Meadowlake…just quality, a high level of service and true love of

Meadowlake Locations meadowlakepetresort.com

6393 Richmond Ave Houston, TX 77057 13500 Furman Road Houston, TX 77047

713-413-1633

animals. Who could ask for more?

See for yourself and stop by for a tour at 6393 Richmond Avenue or visit them on the web for more information at meadowlakepetresort.com.

Meadowlake offers FREE Training Orientations from their award-winning training staff.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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DOGGIE H

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To Donate Please Visit

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2019

PANTONE COLOR OF THE YEAR

Living Coral

Harness The Power

Walking your small pooch with a harness is both good for their body and sporty too! Find yours at Patti's Pet Depot, 14618 Memorial Drive, pattispetdepot.com.

W

e love color! Each January, we showcase the Pantone Institute's Color of the Year, giving you a peek at the latest trend in color and how you can integrate it into your lifestyle with your pet.

Living Coral, also known as Pantone 16-1546, is a warm, peachy orange with a life-affirming golden undertone.

The Pantone Color Institute also notes that in addition to representing one of the earth’s most essential and magnificent ecosystems, the color coral “is a nurturing color that appears in our natural surroundings and at the same time displays a lively presence within social media.”

It's Time

If your 2019 resolution is fitness with your pet, you'll need just the right time-keeper for those long walkd for jogs with your furry friend, available at suunto.com.

Made With Love In Houston

Cable Dog Sweater for your pampered pooch in time for Spring.

Handmade in Houston using premium acrylic and vegan friendly. Available for purchase from needlecraftlovers.com.

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Peach Perfect For Day Dreaming All pups need a great spot to sleep away the afternoon, why not make it fashionable? wayfair.com.

For The Cat Lady

Whimsy is the word with this cotton tee for the consummate cat lover, ebay.com.

Get In The Mix

In a world full of preservatives and other yucky ingredients, one way to ensure a healthy treat for your pet or family is to mix it up yourself! Bake some pawsome goodies with this beautiful mixer from Williams Sonoma.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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CAT-ASTROPHES

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

RECOGNIZING COMMON CAT EMERGENCIES

I

f you have a feline pet, then you have probably had a cat-astrophy or two somewhere along the way.

Let’s face it, cats like to snoop around and often get into things that they shouldn’t.

Here are four common issues that can help you recognize an emergency situation when it occurs.

ACCIDENTS Some accidents constitute medical emergencies, depending on the type and extent of their wounds. If your cat was hit by a vehicle and you believe they have a broken bone, put them into a carrier or a box to support the affected area. Any penetrating wound to the chest or abdomen and virtually any injury involving the eye should be regarded as a medical emergency. Injuries to the head or those causing difficulty breathing should also be treated as immediate emergencies.

BITES, FIGHTS & BREATHING PROBLEMS Cats are territorial and will protect their turf. This also means they will get into fights. You need to clean the wounds immediately with warm water and cover them to protect further contamination, then based on the severity, seek veterinary attention.

However, if your cat is having difficulty breathing, especially “open mouth breathing”, you need to get to the emergency hospital immediately since this could be the initial signs of Anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock. This is a severe allergic reaction characterized by sudden collapse and severe breathing difficulties.

The first clinical signs are often swelling around the face or muzzle, the appearance of hives on the skin, vomiting, diarrhea, and restlessness. These signs can quickly progress to collapse and breathing difficulty. There are many causes for

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anaphylaxis that vary from insect stings, contact allergies to injection reactions.

CONVULSIONS OR SEIZURES A seizure or series of violent, uncontrolled spasms typically last for less than two minutes. If a seizure lasts more than five minutes or if several seizures occur in rapid succession, your cat requires immediate emergency treatment to prevent permanent damage. During the seizure, DO NOT put your hand in your cat’s mouth, they WILL NOT swallow their tongue. You should protect your cat from injuring itself or prevent if from falling, but otherwise, do not attempt to interrupt the seizure.

DIARRHEA OR VOMITING COULD BE FROM POISON Repeated or continuous vomiting or diarrhea, with or without blood, could be a sign of poisoning, an intestinal obstruction,

or acute gastrointestinal infection.

Dehydration is a major concern. Common causes of poisoning include eating mice that have been killed by poison, eating slug or snail baiter injecting a poisonous plant. Other symptoms of poisoning to look for are salivation, skin irritation from caustic irritants, collapse or seizures. If you suspect your feline friend has come in contact with a poisonous substance, contact an emergency veterinarian. Do not force your cat to eat or drink – you may inadvertently worsen the condition. NEVER administer a human medication to your cat unless specifically advised to do so by your veterinarian. Both acetaminophen (Tylenol) and acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin) are toxic to cats. If possible, bring a sample of the suspected poison with its container to the emergency hospital.

At VERGI, we see all kinds of catastrophies, and the more you understand about them the better chance you have to protect them and allow them a long healthy, happy life.

Meet your new best friend at ADORE Houston.

WWW.ADOREHOUSTON.ORG

INFO@ADOREHOUSTON.ORG

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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SAYING GOODBYE

By: Christopher Lewis, DVM Medical Director, Animal Emergency Clinic NE houstonaecne.com

THE SENIOR YEARS

F

acing the consideration of euthanasia is sacrifice all animal lovers must endure at some point in time. There is never a “good time”, and the decision is never an easy one. As a veterinarian, especially in a emergency setting, euthanasia is one of the most difficult consultations we have on a daily basis.

Sometimes, the answer is clear, as in the case of major trauma, or terminal respiratory and cardiac disease.

I will get asked: “How do you know it is time?” In those cases, where there is not an obvious answer, an assessment of quality of life is made. After the medical facts of the cases are discovered and discussed I aid the owner in this assessment of quality of life. The current condition, recent past, and any expectation of future quality of life must be considered.

I humble myself and let the pet parents know, that I cannot possibly understand

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THE CURRENT CONDITION, RECENT PAST, AND ANY EXPECTATION OF FUTURE QUALITY OF LIFE MUST BE CONSIDERED. what the past 5, 10, or 15 years of this pet’s home life has been like. WIth this reflection in mind, I tell most owners if this assessment is honest, they will often know if it is time. A mental ( or even hand written) list of things or activities that provide pleasure can be used to make a more objective assessment. Eating and interaction with the family are the most basic items on such a list. No matter the length of the list, if there are more things on the list that cannot be performed or enjoyed any longer, the quality of life is significantly declined. It is my belief the

exercise can aid in the decision making process.

Another question I often get asked is “How can you do this everyday?”

There are two parts to the answer of this question. 1.) The only way I can perform euthanasia is the be 100% committed to the fact that I will perform euthanasia on animal where is has been determined that that is the best thing for that patient.

2.) It is my duty. Part of the veterinarian’s oath states “...I solemnly swear that I will use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society. I will strive to promote animal health and welfare, relive animal suffering, protect the health of the public and environment, and advance comparative medical knowledge.” With these two pillars of support, I provide guidance to families during the difficult transition of saying goodbye.

ADOPT

Never watch TV alone again!

14700 Almeda Rd. Houston, 77053 713-433-6421

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WHY I LOVE ANIMALS

By: Michelle Mantor Photo: photographybyprudence.com

Thank you to Adventures in Birds for providing these beautiful parrots; both are up for adoption.

Visit them at adventuresinbirdsinc.com.

Why I Love Animals is a monthly feature written by our PetTalk Editor with the mission of educating the public on the value of all species.

hat I love about animals is how they instill WONDER in me. I can’t really explain the reason why and I’m satisfied not to - I’m ok with just embracing the fact that God gave me a passion and I’m fortunate to have found it after years of searching.

Some of my earliest childhood memories were of my dogs and cats and the feeling that I needed to help them and somehow protect them from the many harms that could (and did) come their way.

It was a compulsion in a sense that made me hyper-aware of any animal’s plight. For instance, it was painful for me to see my pets, or anyone else’s for that matter, hurting or not allowed to come inside in the cold West Virginia nights. I felt such anger when the old man next door would kick my dog for daring to come into his yard; I felt such sorrow when my kittens died of everything from being hit by a car to being killed by the neighbor’s dog. I wanted nothing more than to protect my pets but at a young age, there was only so much I could do.

I lived in a world where i felt misunderstood. Didn’t anyone see that animals have emotions? Didn’t anyone feel their pain? Didn’t anyone see their value like I did? Obviously I still carry that pain or I wouldn’t be talking about it in my mid fifties LOL! So, yes, it is confirmed that I have the animal-empathy gene for sure! The pain still resonates because my love of animals is innate and heartfelt.

Having said all of that, for one reason or another, I didn’t choose a career in animal welfare. Instead, I got an MBA and went corporate. I slogged through that career path, never feeling quite at home. Then, in 2003, I got my break from the life of desks, spreadsheets, quotas, meetings and mega-egos when the opportunity to publish PetTalk manifested. I had no idea what I was doing. It was a huge learning curve but I took the leap and never looked back. For all of the gratefulness I have in finding this path, I decided to start a column in 2019 about my love of all creatures and to share the unique qualities of many species with you, in hopes that you too will celebrate the value of animals that make

our world so interesting, sustainable and beautiful.

Fast forward to here and now, as I sit in the presence of this charming YellowNaped Amazon Parrot and this fantastically beautiful Green-wing Macaw. Their colors are so brilliant and defined, as if drawn by a meticulous artist. Not a single feather is misplaced on the landscape of color variations. Their body is artwork, yet they offer so much more.

Macaws, the largest type of parrot, are native to Central America and North America (only Mexico), South America, and formerly the Caribbean. Like other parrots, toucans and woodpeckers, macaws are zygodactyl, having their first and fourth toes pointing backward. Many macaws are “colors in the wind” with brilliantly defined plumage which is suited to life in Central and South American rain forests, with their green canopies and colorful fruits and flowers. They have large, powerful beaks to crack nuts and seeds, while their dry, scaly tongues have a bone inside them that makes them an effective tool for tapping into fruits.

Macaws are intelligent, social birds that often gather in flocks of 10 to 30. Their loud calls, squawks, and screams echo through the forest canopy as they vocalize to communicate within the flock, mark territory, and identify one another. Typically, they mate for life and they not only breed with, but also share food with their mates and enjoy mutual grooming. In breeding season, mothers incubate eggs while fathers hunt and bring food back to the nest.

When properly taken care of, some macaw species can live 60-80 years. For those interested in adopting a macaw, you must be willing to commit enough time to care for them and make provisions for their care in case they outlive you.

Unfortunately, as with many majestic and amazing animals, some macaws are now endangered in the wild and a few are extinct. The greatest problems threatening the macaw population are the rapid rate of deforestation and illegal trapping for the bird trade. These playful birds are popular pets, and many are illegally trapped for that trade. The rain forest homes of many

species are also disappearing at an alarming rate.

While natural evolution will inevitably lead to some bird extinctions, the negative impact of artificial threats cannot be overestimated. I for one do not want our future generations to miss out on these lovely creatures and it is incumbent upon all of us to protect endangered wildlife.

First, it is helpful to focus on living in balance with the planet. You don’t have to become vegan or forsake all material possessions to help prevent bird extinctions, but conscientiously recycling, reducing your carbon footprint and taking other steps to conserve natural resources are great ways to minimize extinction threats.

Some ways you can help include: ❖ Find out everything you can about your bird’s species in the wild – conservation status and the poaching rate. ❖ Educate and raise awareness in others to improve the way they care for birds in captivity and in the wild. ❖ Donate time or money to conservation projects. ❖ Reduce your carbon footprint by at least 15%. ❖ Find opportunities to enjoy ecotourism. ❖ Support conservation projects that earn income through ecotourism. ❖ Volunteer to care for rescued birds.

This list could go on and on regarding how to help birds in the wild - and not just macaws, but other types of birds like the Yellow-Naped Amazon Parrot pictured here.

I recently watched a documentary about the tens of thousands of birds that inhabit a small island between North America and Asia, called Midway Atoll. (The scene of the World War II "Battle of Midway"). The island is rich with birds....and plastic! The amount of plastic and ocean debris (everything from bycicle tires to barbeque grills) is astounding in the most alarming way.

The documentary showed the many birds that perish and decompose on the island and their insides are filled with plastic pieces that they have ingested. It's heartbreaking to see what humans are doing to innocent wildlife, who are valuable aspects of our ecosystem.

As stewards of the planet, which includes all creatures, we have a responsibility to animals in the wild as well as those we choose to take as a pet. And once we make that choice to bring them into our house and heart, it's not a decision to be made lightly that can be changed at a whim. Pets are not disposable, they are sentient beings that have much to say and add to the world if we only listen.

Edifying ourselves about the expression and workings of nature helps us live in ways that come from our understanding of what's real, not from cultural bias. The narrowed view of bias tends to minimize the value of anything other than humans because it makes our life more convenient to not live sustainably or eco-responsibly.

Hence, our oceans are polluted with plastics and debris.

But, in my mind, if we can open up to the realization that animals are an equal part of the universe, a universe that is meant to be shared not accroached, we can stem the destruction through changing our habits. Like it or not, we are radically interconnected with other species, and as we witness their intelligence, emotions and connective tendencies, it is a call to welcome them into the family of things and a reminder to care for them. Which, in turn, helps ensure the ecosystem can sustain a wide variety of life, including us.

As for macaws and other parrots as pets, they are certainly not for everyone.

They can be loud, possessive of their owner, or even harm you with their beak, so you need to be aware, educated and committed to take one as a pet. As with all animals, their behaviors are for a reason, typically self-preservation and procreation and those innate tendancies are needed for their survival.

In the wild, their habitat is continually shrinking and to lose them would be a travesty. Macaws, in my opinion, define majesty when in flight, intelligence with their ability to mimic and "talk", and most importantly, they remind us of the unique beauty of God’s creatures. Surely the feeling of WONDER they elicit within us is a message that we should love and protect them for future generations.

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CAMP BOW WOW 5 LOCATIONS TO SERVE GREATER HOUSTON

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our dog deserves the best – they deserve the premier, allinclusive services of Camp Bow Wow®. Camp Bow Wow offers doggy day care and boarding at five convenient locations in the Houston area. At Camp, your pup can romp and play all day long with other dogs in spacious indoor and outdoor play yards. Overnight Campers snooze the night away in a cozy Cabin complete with a comfy cot, fleece blanket and a bedtime treat.

When your dog is at Camp, you can rest assured they are in safe and loving hands because: ❖ Camp Counselors are extensively trained in dog behavior, pet first aid and CPR ❖ All Campers have passed a socialization interview, are up-to-date on vaccinations and are spayed or neutered ❖ Dogs are separated by size and

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❖

temperament Live web cams allow you to check in on your pup from your computer or mobile device

ALL-INCLUSIVE PRICING At Camp Bow Wow, the price you see is the price you pay. Your pup’s stay includes: ❖ All day play in spacious play yards ❖ Access to live web cams ❖ Check in/out anytime during Camp hours ❖ Medication administration ❖ And, of course, lots of TLC from Certified Camp Counselors

BENEFITS OF CAMP Dog day care is not only helpful for busy pet parents, it has numerous benefits for dogs. Frequent day care at Camp Bow Wow provides: ❖ Regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight ❖ Relief from boredom, separation anxiety and destructive behavior at home ❖ Improved socialization with people and other dogs ❖ Increase in overall happiness

Advertisement

HISTORY OF CAMP BOW WOW In 2000, Camp Bow Wow opened the first Camp in Denver, Colorado. The Camp concept was born out of the lack of highquality care for dogs and the desire for dogs to have fun while away from home.

In 2003, the company began franchising and has since opened over 160 locations in over 40 states and Canada. The company has always prided itself on caring for all pups as if they were family and is looking forward to bringing premier dog care services to even more communities so that countless more dogs can experience the Camp Bow Wow difference.

READY TO SEIZE THE PLAY? It’s time to treat your pup to a fun and active day at Camp and bring home a happy and pooped pooch. Find the location nearest you and schedule your dog’s free interview day by visiting campbowwow.com/houston.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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RESCUE REVEALED

A CHANCE TO BLOOM RESCUE

A

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MEET GINGER Ginger is full of personality! She is 3 years old, great with people, kids, other dogs and cat friendly. Ginger has the most amazing underbite and her grumpy little pout just makes her super unique!

GINGER Photos By ARG Photography

Chance To Bloom Dog Rescue is a volunteer run organization dedicated to saving the underdogs. Founded in 2016, their mission is to rehabilitate and rehome dogs that would normally be euthanized at local shelters due to breed, behavior, physical disabilities or medical issues. ACTB focuses heavily on dogs with immediate medical needs and raises awareness of animal neglect issues by sharing each dog's transformational story.

In July 2018, A Chance To Bloom had the opportunity to adopt a Hurricane Harvey dog named Kuma to film actor Justin Theroux in New York City. Her story made international headlines and helped to highlight the homeless animal crisis in Houston. This opportunity has greatly increased adoption rates and has created a platform for finding wonderful adoptive homes for so many disabled dogs. A Chance To Bloom relies heavily on fundraising and donations to provide veterinary care and operational costs for our program. To donate: www.paypal.me/AChanceToBloom venmo.com/achancetobloom

MEET SHYLA

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.

www.houstonpettalk.com

SHYLA

Photos By ARG Photography

Shyla is a 1 year old Dogo Argentino mix who was living in a homeless encampment and rescued by a volunteer. Don't let those big ears fool you! Shyla is completely deaf, but this doesn't stop her from being an extremely social girl that loves to play with other dogs.

Come Board with Us!

24/7 Staff on Site…..24/7 Onsite Cameras 5 OFF LEASH walks a day * last walk 9pm – 10pm No additional charge for Meds, Hugs or Kisses Discounted PLAYCARE rates with Boarding Weekends and Holiday Pick-Ups (till 8:30pm) (we do not hold pets hostage as we know how badly they are missed)

PLAYCARE & BOARDING

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

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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 world’s animal population. Each month we bring you information on conservation efforts that are of special interest or have some connection to Houston through the Houston Zoo or other local organizers such as the TWRC Wildlife Center. This issue, we are highlighting Mountain Gorillas. Look for other upcoming conservation stories so that you too can help save a species.

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t the end of 2018, a very exciting announcement was made about the state of gorillas in Africa. Mountain

By: Taylor Rhoades, Houston Zoo

Photos: Peter Riger, Houston Zoo

MOUNTAIN GORILLAS’ FUTURE IS A LITTLE BRIGHTER

gorillas have been reclassified from “critically endangered” – the highest level of threat – to “endangered,” moving them a level further away from extinction! This historical achievement is thanks to the hard work and dedication of many individuals and organizations over several decades, including our partners at Gorilla Doctors.

When Gorilla Doctors first started providing life-saving veterinary care to ill and injured mountain gorillas less than 250 individuals remained in the wild. Today, that number has increased to 1,004. The Houston Zoo has provided support for Gorilla Doctors for more than 10 years, helping to save gorillas in the wild. During that time, the zoo has flown

many of the Gorilla Doctors from Africa to receive extensive veterinary training from zoo veterinary clinic staff.

The zoo also provides Gorilla Doctors with scholarships, supplies, and funding.

We are so grateful to Gorilla Doctors for their tireless efforts and are cheering them on as they continue to care for mountain gorilla populations in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. You can help save mountain gorillas by recycling your old cell phones on your next visit to the Zoo! Coltan, a mineral used in our handheld electronics is often destructively mined in Central Africa which is home to many endangered species, including the mountain gorilla.