April 2019

JOIN US AT PETTALKGOFETCH.COM FOR EVENTS, CONTESTS,

& PET DIRECTORY

The Definitive Source for Houston Pet Lovers

PET FOOD: WHAT IS GUARANTEED ANALYSIS?

ANNUAL

MEDIA HOUNDS ISSUE

April 2019

MEET MATT DOUGHERTY OF KHOU

ALONG WITH OTHER MEDIA PERSONALITIES AND THEIR PETS DIVORCE LAW: WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOUR PET

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Editorial April 2019

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pril is an exciting and busy month for the PetTalk family - our biggest event of the year is April 6, Doggy Party on the Plaza at CityCentre, plus the publication features some of the warmest-hearted media in town with their pets. In a tradition we started years ago, April is our Media Hounds issue where we highlight local media with their pets. We are lucky to have so many talented people spreading the word of news, politics, sports, lifestyle trends and more who also have big hearts for animals. Many of Houston's publications as well as radio, TV, and online shows are more than willing to promote animals in need of a home, the humane treatment of animals, lost pet alerts, stories of need and much more, so it’s our pleasure to have the opportunity to thank them and share a little of their own personal “pet life” with our readers!

In working with these Media Hounds over the years, I have learned one thing for sure: they are all go-getters who don’t let any grass grow under their feet! They are full of energy and they are more than adept at promoting

so we at PetTalk get the benefit of their savvy promotional talents, which also keeps us busy and moving fast too. It’s a whirlwind of social media cross promotions, posting photos and kudos to everyone involved. Mind you, I’m not complaining - I love it! But it’s a busy time and April flies right by. We hope you will join us in thanking our featured media for their contribution to Houston’s pet scene and we also hope to see you at Doggy Party.

Speaking of Doggy Party, it’s our 10th anniversary! From our humble beginnings in 2009 when CityCentre was a mere shell of its current self (there were only a handful of stores), the venue has grown tremendously to be one of the best hot spots in Houston and Doggy Party has become known as one of the best parties in town to celebrate all things dog.

From the fantastic emcees (Deborah Duncan, David Paul and Lisa Hernandez of KHOU), to the entertainment, 70+ vendors and the oneof-a-kind Rescue Me! Parade featuring area rescues competing for prizes, Doggy Party is not only fun, but gives back to the community.

We will have adoptable dogs on site with CAP and BARC, plus a special treat this year - our parade Grand Marshal is Whitney Mercilus of

Cowboy Charisma This handsome Texas cowboy, a.k.a. Jesse Lechuga, the on-air talent at La Raza 103.3, chats with editor Michelle Mantor at the annual Media Hounds photoshoot. We can't tell if Michelle is more charmed by the adoptable kitten from Houstn SPCA or Jesse! The shoot included 8 Media Personalities being photographed all in one day - quite a feat but not a problem for Evin Thayer and his team! Check out the feature to meet them all. Cover photo of KHOU's Matt Dougherty by Evin Thayer.

the Houston Texans and he will be joined by Mayor Turner and District G Council Member Greg Travis in the parade. A big thank you to Mayor Turner and Greg Travis for declaring April 6 Doggy Party on the Plaza Day via a mayoral proclamation. We are most appreciative of the honor!

The Media Hounds Issue and Doggy Party are not the only two annual events for PetTalk in April. Our annual Pets In The Wildflowers Photo Contest sponsored by Sunset Animal Hospital kicks off April 1. Snap a pic of your pet (pets only please) in the gorgeous Texas wildflowers and enter to win via our Facebook page or our website. There is a professional and amateur category and our tradition is to publish ALL entries in the June issue no matter how many we get. It's a reader favorite to see the furry fun in the vibrant fields of flowers - and it's not just dogs, so be creative!

A big Easter Bunny hug to all...enjoy this beautiful month with your furry friends!

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 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.

Tell our advertisers you heard about them in Houston PetTalk!

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

Guatemala Sally Nilsson is enjoying the gorgeous scenery in Guatemala while checking out her copy of PetTalk. Thanks for sharing Sally!

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redicting that 4-leggers of the canine persuasion will take over the world is brazen I know, but hear me out.

I first want to say that I’m not delusional from watching too many Disney or Dreamworks’ movies where renegade dogs and cats attempt to take over the world with the age-old good vs. evil plot.

No, my analysis and conclusion is much more sophisticated and subtle.

I began thinking of this idea while studying Darwinism (yes, I can do more than shop for Jimmy Chew shoes and eat chocolate pupcakes). You know…the survival of the fittest thing. It’s been proven that, in nature, the weak are filtered out and the stronger survive.

In applying this theory to twoleggers, all you have to do is watch TV and you’ll see how homosapiens are getting weaker and weaker. In just a matter of a few hours while watching my favorite shows (The Pet Nanny and Desperate Doghouse Wives), I witnessed mucho amounts of “aides” for this everdeclining species.

First was pills and liquids all designed to help them take a dump. This affliction is most likely from ever-increasing pickiness of their food choices. There is something to be said for dumpsterdiving. Next was a parade of products

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all designed to make two-leggers look better to other two-leggers…ways to grow hair, reduce fat thighs, hide wrinkles, fade brown spots, tone abs, whiten teeth and make “intimate moments” possible through little blue pills.

Seriously?

Wouldn’t it be easier to just take your clothes off, stand around in the raw the way four-leggers do, roll in something great smelling and I

promise you’ll get attention.

Then came the mobility madness.

Motorized carts, hearing aids, eye glasses, canes, knee braces, back supporters and GPS to help remember where the hell you are. It’s just my opinion but part of the problem here is all of those times two-leggers fought to get the closest parking space to the front entrance of the grocery store rather than actually walking for exercise has culminated in “use it or lose it”.

I could go on with this analysis but I’m running out of space and I think you get the idea. So, the more twoleggers rely on all sorts of devices and pills to keep going and we canines continue to get stronger through self-reliance, there will come a day when we rule. And when we do, you can hang your hat on these predictions: 1. Dogs will have private restrooms so we don’t have to do our business in front of the world; 2. Cats will be confined to an island off the coast of California (which will have fallen into the ocean); 3. Greenies will be free and the reigning political party will not believe in government handouts; rather, they will require all to work like a dog!

4. Two-leggers will be on leashes tethered to their mobility device and made to do stupid tricks for one tiny morsel of food. Yes, turnabout is fair play...every dog has his day!

Henrietta Illustration by Jim Tweedy, Colorizing by Desiree Lonsway

Henrietta

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Unleashed ANIMEALS BEST FRIENDS BRUNCH

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Winning Dog "Ace" with Evan Choate

hilanthropic animal lovers gathered at Hotel Zaza for the 6th annual Best Friends Brunch benefiting the AniMeals program. The Valentine-themed event featured a pet fashion show, silent auction, and a cat video contest, all emceed by ABC 13's Casey Curry. The event raised $105,000 to provide free pet food and vet care for over 1,300 dogs and cats in the program.

Susan Boggio, Mandy Kao, Yasmine Haddad

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Joy Sewing

"Ashton" with Teddy Kao Photos By Quy Tran Photography

Tracy Faulkner

Unleashed SABERCATS BARK IN THE PARK

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Photos By BigShot Photography

t was tail-wagging fun at the SaberCats first ever Bark in the Park where rugby fans brought their own pooches to the game. Held at Constellation Field while the Sabercats await completion of their new stadium, the crowd enjoyed shopping with vendors and checking out the adoptables from Houston Humane Society.

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Unleashed ST. ARNOLD'S PUB CRAWL

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overs of both St. Arnold’s and animal rescue enjoyed a festive night March 10th at the Houston Arboretum for the 4th Annual Pup Crawl benefiting BARC. The crawlers enjoyed stops along the trail for beer and other goodies. Fun times!

Our team is looking forward to meeting you.

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earland Animal Cancer & Referral Center is Greater Houston’s first specialty veterinary hospital dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of dogs and cats with cancer.

Photos By Nature Dog Photography

ASK THE ONCOLOGIST, CANCER Q &A What are some of the the signs of Cancer in our pets?

Early detection of cancer in our pets is an important factor in successful treatment. Some common signs may be vague such as loss of appetite, vomiting, weight loss, diarrhea, antisocial behavior, lethargy, increased thirst and urination, or urinary incontinence.

More specific signs may include the appearance or changes in swellings or masses, non-healing skin lesions, limping or lameness, nose bleeds, or other bleeding, or difficulty eating.

Send your questions to info@ pearlandvetreferral.com to be considered for next month’s Q&A! 10100 BROADWAY ST, STE.102 PEARLAND, TX, 77584 832.669.3800 PEARLANDVETREFERRAL.COM

Making Life Better.

Longer.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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

Photos By Nature Dog Photography

The Dish

KHOU's David Paul at Doggy Party on the Plaza

Events 04.06.2019

Doggy Party on the Plaza CityCentre 800 Town and Country Blvd 77024 Noon to 5pm It's time to celebrate all things dog with Houston's best party, PetTalk's Doggy Party on the Plaza. It's our 10th Anniversary so we have a great day planned including celeb emcees, Easter/ Spring themed costume contest, over 70 vendors, our signature Rescue Me Parade featuring Grand Marshal Whitney Mercilus of the Houston Texans and Mayor Turner.

Plus, come see the adoptable dogs and perhaps you'll add to your furry family! doggypartyontheplaza.com.

04.13.2019

Rocket’s 7th Annual Dog Walk Lake Plaza at Hermann Park

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6104 Hermann Park Drive 77030 6:30am Registration; 9:00am Party Come be a part of the 7th Annual Rockets Dog Walk. Enjoy the beautiful spring month of April with some doggy fun while helping a good cause. hermannpark.org/dogwalk.

04.13.2019

Cross Creek Ranch Mutt Strut Cross Creek Ranch Welcome Center 6450 Cross Creek Bend Lane Fulshear 77441 11am to 3pm Well-heeled dogs can strut their stuff at the Cross Creek Ranch Welcome Center where activities include a pup peanut butter-eating contest, a Mutt Strut costume contest, Houston Disc Dogs performances, a photo booth, pet adoptions, dog trainers, bounce house, games and more. For more information, visit pettalkgofetch.com/events.

04.20.2019

Puppies For Breakfast Market Square Park 301 Milam St. 77002 10am to 2pm Don't miss the 6th Annual Puppies for Breakfast celebration including entertainment, vendors, a doggy play area, Easter egg hunt and food trucks. For more details visit puppiesforbreakfast.com.

04.28.2019

Houston Humane Society Fun Run T.C. Jester Park 4201 T.C. Jester Blvd 77018 9am to 2pm Enjoy the 38th Annual HHS Fun Run by competing in a one mile run with your dog or non-competitive one mile walk/jog to raise money for the shelter. Vendors and entertainment will be on hand so don't miss the fun!

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PET PORTRAITS by Teemo, First place winner 2018

Kristel Peale

TEXAS WILDFLOWER CONTEST

Begins April 1

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t’s no April Fools! Get ready to take your best wildflower shot with your furry one! PetTalk’s 11th Annual Pets in the Wildflowers Photo Contest, sponsored

by Sunset Animal Hospital, starts April 1. Photos of pets (no humans, please) taken in beautiful Texas Wildflowers can be entered in the contest until April 21 when public voting will commence to select finalists in two categories: Novice and Professional Photographer. The winners, selected by Sunset Animal Hospital, as well as all entries will have their photographs featured in the June issue of Houston PetTalk.

The Novice winner will also receive a $200 Gift Certificate to Sunset!

About Sunset Animal Hospital: Sunset Animal Hospital is a 24/7 full-service veterinary hospital located at 2959 SW Freeway Service Rd, 77098 offering state-ofthe-art medical services as well as boarding.

in watercolor or acrylic

peale@sbcglobal.net * 713 467-0312 www. etsy.shop/KristelsColors Houston PetTalk Magazine

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The Dish FUNDRAISER

Doghouses to Benefit Homeless Pets

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alling all dog lovers! Mark your calendar for the 15th Annual Designer Doghouse Competition & Silent Auction, featured at the World Series of Dog Shows this July 17th – 21st.

Companies wanting to promote their business, scouts looking to demonstrate their skills and individuals with a creative streak are invited to build and enter your very own puppy palace for this creative local competition. Nearly 40,000 attendees will have the chance to vote for and bid on their favorite canine castle during one of the largest indoor dog shows in the USA. Help make a difference in the lives of our area homeless pets. All proceeds benefit the homeless animals cared for at the CAP Animal Shelter & Pet Adoption Center located on Katy Freeway. For more information, contact Ana at arodriguez@cap4pets.oeg or visit CAP online at cap4pets.org.

HELPING ANIMALS

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atsy’s Pet Market in Katy in conjunction with Pets Global, the founders of pet food brands Zignature and Fussie Cat, successfully raised more than $4,000 for Dachshund Rescue of Houston on Saturday, February 23 at Patsy’s Pet Market. More than 400 people attended the fundraiser in support of Dachshund Rescue of Houston and Meg Rayburn, a Dachshund who was discovered on New Year’s Eve with fireworks that had been taped to her back and set off. The money raised will go toward Meg and the rescue Dachshunds the non-profit currently cares for. Pets Global will also be matching dollar for dollar the money raised for the rescue as a result of the fundraiser.

For more information about Dachshund Rescue of Houston or to donate, please visit droh.org.

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Photo provided by Pets Global

Mardi Paws Fundraiser for Dachshund Rescue of Houston

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Ashley with Nenagh and Sox

LOVE TAILS

Photo Contest Winners

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e know how much our readers LOVE your pets and many of you showed us just how much in our recent LOVE TAILS photo contest, sponsored

by Bingle Vet. The entries were supercreative..definitely created with LOVE! Finalists were selected by public voting and a

panel of judges from Bingle Vet chose the winning photo. Meet winner Ashley Gleeson with her dogs Nenagh and Sox sharing a love moment. Congratulations to Ashley for winning $200 in Bingle Bucks!

ABOUT BINGLE VET: Bingle Vet is a familyowned practice committed to the compassionate care of pets while providing impeccable service to pet parents. They not only value your time with a 10 Minute Guarantee, they want you to become a part of their family. With 2 locations in Katy and Spring Branch, book your appointment at BingleVet.com.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Waiting ...

For Yop u soon!

Pick me u

Your new best friend is waiting...

Adopt a schnauzer, and save a life!

www.SchnauzerRescueTexas.me

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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#ShareWithUs!

FEATURED THIS MONTH:

MARVEL TO THE RESCUE, NAT'L LOVE YOUR PET DAY, AND RODEO TIME

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. @unstoppablek9s “Fun isn’t something one considers when balancing the universe.

But this... does put a smile on my face.”- Thanos @pettalkmagazine @captainmarvelofficial@marvelstudios @marvel #marvel#captainmarvel #theavengers #thor#avengers 2. @unofficial_porkchop1 PorkChop as Lockjaw from Marvel's Inhumans @pettalkmagazine@captainmarvelofficial #porkchoptheautismservicedog 3. @thorthebluestaffy Into the doggy verse @ captainmarvelofficial @pettalkmagazine 4. @houston_airedoodles Family photo #tangoandcali #houstonairedoodles 5. @rou_ga_rouxs_boy National love your pet day you say...? Perfect...because I am so..so..loved!!

6. @labsbythepool I’d never forget national love your pet day! These two hunks steal my heart every day! Stinky farts, bad breath and constant bruising from their tails made of steel, wouldn’t trade it for the world!! Love these boys to the moon and back! #nationalloveyourpetday 7. @bairdtheforeverpup Used momma’s hat she bought from the Houston Rodeo to take a Texan selfie! What do y’all think?!

8. @modogsmofun Happy #gotexanday! #greatpyrenees #texan #houston #giddyup 9. @coffeethedoodle Howdy!

I am ready for Go Texan Day, y’all! #proudtexan

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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ANNUAL

MEDIA HOUNDS ISSUE I

n a world of the 24-hour news cycle, media is ubiquitous - from television, radio, podcasts, magazines, websites and more, a great deal of the information we consume is filtered through or generated by media.

Without media as a conduit, many citizens would remain uninformed.

Most importantly, the media helps get the word out about many urgent or pressing issues, including matters relating to animals in our community. Whether it be overcrowding in shelters with an urgent call for adoption, or animal cruelty cases, or even the dire situation of animals in need during a natural disaster like Hurricane Harvey, media outlets

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step up to do what they can to help.

Often, media helps turn bad situations into “happy tails” and for their part in doing so, PetTalk created the Media Hounds Annual Issue where we highlight various media personalities and their pets as a way of thanking them for their dedication to animal causes. Plus it gives our readers a glimpse into their life with their personal pets. Now in its 7th year, the Media Hounds issue has become a reader favorite. Enjoy meeting this year’s “hounds”!

By Michelle Mantor Photos by Evin Thayer

MEET LOCAL MEDIA AND THEIR PETS Houston PetTalk Magazine

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MATT DOUGHERTY KHOU-TV CHANNEL 11 With Gus What animals do you feel most connected to?

I can’t remember a time when my family has been without a dog.

People seem to gravitate toward a certain type of pet or breed of animal that leads to the most successful relationships.

For myself and my parents and brothers, it has always been Labrador Retrievers.

Our dogs are family members. My life would not have been the same without the kindness, loyalty and pure joy our dogs have brought me from the day I was born.

When you’re happy, they love you.

When you’re excited, they love you. When you make a mistake, they love you. When you feel like the world is against you, they love you. They are the definition of unconditional love.

What animal welfare causes or events do you support?

KHOU-11 has shown an unwavering commitment to animal welfare. Traditional newscasts have been changed in times of crisis — when our local shelters have experienced overpopulation or a sudden influx of intakes — and we have broadcast continuing live coverage to encourage immediate adoptions. The “Pet of the Week” segment is an ongoing effort to encourage the public to participate in local adoptions.

The greatest contribution I've made to animal welfare in my career happened while I was working in Florida. My investigative reports into the secretive, and at times abusive practices happening at the area’s monkey farms led to widespread awareness and changes in the industry.

Thousands of primates were being bred for medical research purposes and product testing without the knowledge of the general public and with minimal oversight.

What is the number one thing you would want to tell the public about

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responsible pet care?

I see our pets as gifts from God. They are here for us to respect, protect, honor and love.

If you cannot care for a pet completely — physically and emotionally — you should not have one.

Lots of people get a puppy because they are lonely.

They are trying to fill a void in their lives.

They get a dog and selfishly think their lives and habits can stay the same. In the morning, they wake up, feed the dog and take it out to potty. Then they go to work all day, come home, feed the dog again, and take it out for 10 minutes because they’re too tired to do much more.

The next day it’s the same, and so on.

I think this is wrong. Dogs are pack animals and need to be around others — whether it’s humans or animals. It’s not right for a dog to spend the majority of its life at home alone in a crate.

If your dogs could talk, what would they say?

They’d say, “Let’s go!” They’re retrievers and they love to play. They walk, swim and race. I’m not great about sitting still for too long so we’re a good match.

Tell us who this little cutie is...

This is Angel and I’ve had her since she was a puppy. I adopted her from my cousin.

Tell us why you love animals.

We’ve always had dogs in our family. Angel is just the latest in the line of 4-legged family members. Angel loves to wear clothes!

Tell us more LOL! Angel, the Teacup Yorkie in my life, is full of personality and humor. She’s smart as a whip. For instance, she knows the gate code. We live in a gated complex and when I give someone the code she gets wound up. She knows a guest is coming soon and she is anxiously waiting for them.

Wow, that is smart! If Angel could talk to you, what do you think she would say?

"Why do you work out so early in the morning?"

Please get your pets vaccinated and take good care of them. They have feelings and needs just like rest of us. And… pick up after your pet. Dog poop is not a fertilizer.

If you could be any animal in the world which one would you be and why?

Angel, because she is loved and well cared for.

Tell us a secret about yourself that our readers would be surprised to learn.

I am veg/pescatarian with Vegan leaning tendencies. However, I make a mean gumbo and bake everything from scratch.

I have some of my most creative moments in the kitchen. I’m somewhat of a culinary artist.

KIM DAVIS

THE KD COMPANY With Angel Is there a special animal organization that you would love our readers to learn more about?

SNAP - Spay & Neuter Assistance Program. They are a great resource for Houstonians.

If Angel had a human voice, who would she sound like?

Michelle Obama

If Angel was a superhero, who do you think she would be?

Storm!

Where does she sleep?

Angel sleeps in one of her beds or with me. It’s really all about her and how she feels.

Sometimes she starts in one place and in the middle of the night moves to another. It’s her world.

If Angel could ask you to take her somewhere, where would that place be?

To a Caribbean Island and beach resort. She loves the sun.

What is the number one thing you would want to tell the public about responsible pet care?

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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LAURETTE VERES

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF H TEXAS MAGAZINE, TEXAS WEDDINGS MAGAZINE, BRIDAL EXTRAVAGANZA PRODUCER With Tuxedo

Who is this beautiful Westie?

This is Tuxedo, named for the bridal industry. He is my second!

yelled “release the hounds" every morning. One of our roommates cooked steaks for the dogs – they ate better than we did.

Tell us a funny anecdote about your love of dogs.

When I was single, I had several roommates and five dogs between us. We

What would you say is your favorite animal?

Westies have always been my favorite.

They are the perfect size, don’t shed and are very loyal.

If Tuxedo could ask you a question, what do you think it would be?

"Where have you been all day?"

Where does Tuxedo sleep?

He sleeps with me and he waits at the top of the stairs for me. Even if everyone else is asleep and he could easily jump into bed, he waits for me.

If your pet could ask you to take them somewhere, where would that place be?

The beach, he is a fishing dog for sure!

What animal welfare causes or groups do you support?

I have supported Citizens for Animal Protection for over 20 years. One of our managers was an honoree and one of my best friends won celebrity pet of the year. They do great work for the animals in our community!

What is the number one thing you would want to tell the public about responsible pet care?

My first Westie was a one-way walker.

He literally got out of our gate over 50 times. Each and every time, he was found!

Embedding a chip in pets was new at the time…now chipping your dog is a must.

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CARLOS A. ROBLES TELEMUNDO HOUSTON With Aby How did this cute gal find you and your family?

This is Aby and we always say she chose us because she was the first dog that ran directly to me, my wife and my daughter Andrea.

Tell us why you are an animal enthusiast?

I have always had a special connection with animals. When I was a kid, my grandfather raised chickens, cows, rabbits and goats. I helped him feed those animals in a small farm in Puerto Rico. My mom is also an animal lover and taught me how to take care of animals, especially our dogs.

What is your favorite animal?

I love horses! When I was a teenager, I used to ride horses everyday during the summer. Every Saturday, my friends and I would bathe the horses, and during the night we would ride them through the neighborhood.

If Aby was a super hero, who do you think she would want to be?

Wonder Woman because she is very sassy, fierce and strong.

If Aby could ask you to take her somewhere, where would that place be?

Everytime we go to Puerto Rico we always bring Aby and she loves to go to the beach. I'm pretty sure that would be her request.

What animal welfare causes or events do you support?

Every year Telemundo Houston supports Clear The Shelters initiative where we encourage people to save and adopt dogs and cats.

What’s the worst thing Aby has ever done (although we can't imagine she could do any wrong!)?

One day we opened the front door to go outside and Aby left running. We searched for hours but we couldn't find her. It was starting to get dark so we called it a night and went to sleep. The next day a family called us and said they had Aby and she slept with them that night. If it weren't for that family, I would be telling a different story.

If Aby had a human voice, who would she sound like?

She would sound like a very demanding baby!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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SYAN RHODES

ANCHOR/REPORTER KPRC CHANNEL 2 NEWS With Sayblee

How did you and Sayblee meet?

Sayblee is a terrier mix, approximately 12 years old. She found me when I was on a shoot at an animal shelter just outside of Memphis, Tennessee. It was the middle of an especially brutal summer, the shelter's A/C had broken and they were desperate for people to come adopt the animals. Sayblee had just been dropped off by her elderly owner who did not have A/C and whose family had come to rescue her but couldn't take the puppy.

She hadn't even been processed yet and was hanging out in the office. Right away I noticed her playful personality and she came up to me like she knew me. I used her in the news report for that day and came back the next day to adopt her!

Tell us what you love about pets.

Like a lot of kids, my first pet was a fish, a Siamese fighting fish to be exact. My family also took us on lots of trips to the Houston Zoo, so my sister and I gained an early appreciation for wildlife. When we were older, my parents allowed us to get a dog, a Bichon Frise. Sayblee and I have been together since 2007, three cities/jobs. She is truly a loyal companion and her feisty spirit makes me smile everyday!

If Sayblee could ask you a question, what do you think it would be?

"What would you do without me?"

If she was a superhero, who would it be?

Black Panther!

What is Sayblee's favorite food?

Her favorite food is EVERYTHING that she's not supposed to have. She loves

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the occasional escaped kernel of popcorn, but also enjoys carrots and apples.

What animal welfare causes or events do you support?

KPRC is very active each year in Clear The Shelters, an adoption drive that also helps raise awareness about the importance of pet adoption and overcrowding issues that occur in local shelters, especially during the summer.

What is the number one thing you would want to tell the public about responsible pet care?

Spay and neuter, of course.

If Sayblee had a human voice, who would she sound like?

Beyonce.

JESSE LECHUGA

ON-AIR PERSONALITY LA RAZA 103.3 Featured with Houston SPCA Adoptable Kitten We appreciate you showing off this cute little kitten that is up for adoption at Houston SPCA! We hear you have two dogs in San Antonio that couldn't make our photoshoot but tell us about them.

Their names are Kiko and Killer and they are my best friends - they bring me happiness and love! They are like my kids because they actually grew up with my own kids.

Tell us something funny about one of your dogs.

One time we left my kid's shoes outside because they got wet and Kiko decided to eat them. Cost me a lot of money!

If Kiko and Killer could ask you a question, what do you think it would be?

"Take me with you to Houston!"

What superhero do you think Killer would be?

Probably Superman - he jumps all the time and looks like he's flying.

Pets are like having children - you need to fee them, take care of them and love them like any other family member.

If you could be any animal in the world which one would you be and why?

I would be a Tiger because, even though they are a wild animal, they have a lovely heart.

Tell us a secret about yourself that our readers would be surprised to learn.

If I see any animal on the side of the road, I will go in a store and buy them food and feed them and give them water.

Any last message for our readers?

Houston is a big city with lots of homeless pets.

Please adopt if you can and give them a nice home.

What's his favorite toy?

Tennis balls!

If Kiko and Killer could ask you to take them somewhere, where would that place be?

Definitely they would want to go to the park to run!

What is the number one thing you would want to tell the public about responsible pet care?

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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SEAN PENDERGAST SPORTS RADIO 610 Featured with Houston SPCA Adoptable Senior

This cute little gal from Houston SPCA is looking for home so thank you for showing her off to our readers. We know you recently lost your long time friend, Sasha. Tell us about her.

Sasha was an awesome 14-year-old terrier mix, that I inherited as a doggie step-dad when I met my fiancée back in 2010. Unfortunately we had to say goodbye to her in January. We miss her every day.

Tell us why you are an animal enthusiast.

I am specifically a dog enthusiast because of how unconditionally loyal they are, and the big personalities that they have. They truly have been family members for me, going back to second grade with our Schnauzer, and then in my adult life with my kids’ dogs, and with Sasha.

One funny story — my older son’s dog is a wiener dog named Arf, and one time as a puppy he wandered out of the house in the dark, and I was left screaming his name in the middle of our street… ARF! ARF! ARF! I’m sure the neighbors were amused.

We foresee another pet in your future (we are soothsayers here at PetTalk!) and if that pet could ask you a question, what do you think it would be?

"Why do you watch so much football?"

If Sasha were a superhero, who would it be?

Sasha would have been a Jedi…she had a sixth sense to know what time I was getting home and would sit by the door at exactly 6:30pm every day. It was amazing.

Do you support any particular animal causes?

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I give monetary donations, but admittedly, I should spend more time publicizing great efforts like this one.

What is the number one thing you would want to tell the public about responsible pet care?

If something is “a little off” with your pet, then don’t hesitate — go to a vet. We learned with Sasha that she routinely was able to tough it through various illnesses and wouldn’t let on she was sick until she absolutely couldn’t hide it. The day she passed, she seemed fine when Amy and I left the house that day, but by the afternoon, she was stumbling around, anemic, and had been bleeding internally for who knows how long.

If you could be any animal in the world which one would you be and why?

Any species of dog, as long as I am owned by someone who lives in River

Oaks.

What’s the worst thing your pet has ever done?

Chewed up the remote control, which for me may as well be a vital organ.

Tell us a secret about yourself that our readers would be surprised to learn.

I am deathly afraid of wild turkeys. No idea why, but I’m sure it will come out in therapy someday.

Is there a special animal organization that you would love our readers to help, become a part of, or learn more about?

I’m a big fan of Lance McCullers, Jr. of the Astros, and I know his foundation does a lot of great things for pets in the Houston area.

CLINT STOERNER SPORTS RADIO 610 With Khaleesi Who is the beautiful-eyed dog?

This is Khaleesi named from Game of Thrones and she is a Klee Kai. Many people mistake her for a Siberian Husky.

Where does Khaleesi sleep?

Under the bed.

Ok, I guess that works LOL! How about favorite foods of this warrior princess?

She loves human food!

which is strange for a dog but greatly appreciated.

If Khaleesi could ask you to take her somewhere, where would that place be?

Grandma CiCi’s house where there is a big backyard so she can really open up her stride and reach top speed...she can roll!

Funny you say that because being your own pet appears to be a running theme of our Media Hounds...some very spoiled animals in this feature!

Ok, even though we know Khaleesi is a good girl, tell us the worst thing and the funniest thing she has ever done?

Chewed up Lorin's high heels andchewed up Lorin's high heels!

If you could be any animal in the world which one would you be and why?

Khaleesi - she’s treated better than most humans.

Tell us more about her personality.

She really enjoys anything she can fetch.

Her personality is a very high level of independence,

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Lifestyle

EcoFun 1 HIGH DESERT ECO-FRIENDLY CAT BED: This luxurious bed is constructed with durable, eco-friendly, water hyacinth wood, hand-woven over a strong, powder-coated steel frame.

The cushion is washable. Go ahead and make your cat purr in comfort and style! Purchase at overstock.com.

2. SO FOXY: This whimsical keychain depicting a fox is made from Walnut wood remnants and is friendly to the planet. Other shapes available at etsy.com.

3. POOPBAGS: Keep it CLEAN and GREEN with these waste bags that are USDA Certified Biobased,

which means they are made with a minimum of 38% plant material. This line also includes a recycled bag.

Available at Krisers.com.

4. BYE-YOU BUG: is an all-natural vanilla based bug spray that is safe to use on children, pets, and adults. The proprietary blend of vanilla and food grade ingredients creates an appealing scent. Purchase yours at HEB. 5. BECO BALL: Keep it GREEN with this eco-friendly dog ball toy made from sustainable rice husk rubber. It bounces and rolls randomly, keeping your pup entertained for hours. Get yours at thrivemarket.com.

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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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AT VCA ANIMAL HOSPITALS, WE CARE

Lifestyle

BunnyFun 1 THE COLLAR OF EASTER: If you've been looking for just the right accessory for your pet this Easter season, this festive collar could be eggs-actly the one! Find it at amazon.com.

2. A CARROT IS ALWAYS BETTER THAN A STICK: Your pet will have hours of hoppin' fun with this hiden-seek carrot and rabbit toy from chewy.com.

3. WHISKERVILLE: Turn your pooch into an adorable bunny with this fun shirt from chewy.com.

4. PUP TREATS: It's yummy in the tummy with special treats from Three

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Dog Bakery including Bunny Butt Cookies and Collie Flower Pup Cakes.

Make your pup's Easter EGG-STRA special! Visit them at 2402 Rice Blvd or order online at threedogbakeryhtx. com.

5. DOES SOMEBUNNY LOVE ME? Show your pup you do with a cute tee from etsy.com.

6. BUNNY MADNESS: Hours of fun await your dog with this plush, squeaker filled bunny toy from Patti's Pet Depot, 14618 Memorial Dr. 7. SPRING CHIC: Don't miss an opportunity to adorn your pet in Spring styles including vests, bowties and more from Furreverdoggies.com.

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Health

HIGH TOXICITY

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

XYLITOL CAN BE MORE TOXIC THAN CHOCOLATE FOR DOGS

M

ost people who has ever owned a dog knows that chocolate can be a killer. But what they don’t realize is that xylitol (a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener) is extremely toxic and poses greater danger to our dogs. In fact, the minimum amount of dark chocolate that could cause death in dogs, based on their size, doesn’t compared to the minimum number of pieces of xylitol-containing sugar free gum that could have the same devastating effect.

Toxicity occurs simply because xylitol may not be completely digested in the intestines until the digestive system adapts. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs.

Even small amounts of xylitol can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure or even death in dogs.

This general lack of awareness of xylitol and the danger it poses, coupled with the high toxic potency of xylitol in dogs, presents a huge problem! And it’s a problem that’s getting bigger every year, as xylitol is gaining in popularity and being added to more and more common products. In fact, odds are good that you have something containing xylitol in your medicine cabinet, your pantry, or even your PURSE right now... without even being aware of it.

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POISONOUS TO DOGS The level of toxicity is generally mild to severe, depending on the dose ingested.

Common signs to watch for: ❖ Weakness ❖ Lethargy ❖ Collapse ❖ Vomiting ❖ Tremoring ❖ Seizures ❖ Jaundice ❖ Malaise ❖ Black-tarry stool ❖ Coma ❖ Death Xylitol is a natural, sugar-free sweetener commonly found in many chewing gums, mints, foods (e.g., pudding and gelatin snacks, etc.), oral rinses, toothpastes, and OTC supplements (e.g., sugar-free multivitamins, fish oils, etc.). The xylitol content of these products can vary widely depending on brand and flavor. In dogs, smaller ingestions can cause an acute, life-threatening low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) within 1015

minutes. Larger ingestions can result in acute liver necrosis and liver failure.

If you suspect your dog ingested xylitol, contact your veterinarian, an emergency veterinary hospital or Pet Poison Helpline immediately for life-saving treatment recommendations. Depending on the symptoms, vomiting may be induced by your veterinarian. Treatment often includes monitoring of blood sugar and liver values, IV fluids, sugar supplementation in IV fluids, and liver protective drugs [e.g., S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe)], as needed. Activated charcoal does not reliably bind xylitol, therefore is not recommended. Blood work (evaluating liver function) should be re-evaluated 2-3 days after discharge, depending on the toxic dose ingested.

So remember to be as diligent with Xylitol as you would with chocolate in your home.

Alternate names: sugar-free, sugarless, gum, mints, breath mints, toothpaste, chewable vitamins, Trident, Ice Breakers, Orbit, Nicorette, sugar alcohol, acute hepatic necrosis, hypoglycemia, liver failure.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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WALKING FIDO

By: Erica Sandberg, DVM lastwishes.com

HOW TO EXPLORE HOUSTON WITH YOUR SENIOR DOG

H

oping to include Fido or Fluffy on more of your expeditions around Houston, but unsure where to go now that they are in their elder years? We have some great dog friendly locales and hangouts for you to check out. Here’s some ideas on how to accommodate your senior dog and start including them in your recreational plans.

PREPARATIONS Every senior dog has unique needs so we need to make sure we’re prepared before we take them out on the town. If you’re planning an outdoor activity, ensure that they have access to fresh water, treats that won’t upset their tummies, and a way for them to get around that allows them to get fresh air while being easiest on their body. Harnesses, wagons, and pet strollers can be a great way for us to help accommodate any dog with mobility or endurance concerns.

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Naturally, the first thing on the list for things to do with your pet in Houston will involve food and drink, because we’re in Houston and there are so many options!

If you’re heading out for dinner, coffee, or a drink, consider these dog friendly restaurants and bars in Houston and surrounding areas. Once you’ve exhausted this list, head on over to BringFido.com for more options: ❖ Baileson Brewing Co. ❖ Barnaby’s Café ❖ Brick House Tavern and Tap ❖ Cedar Creek Bar & Grill ❖ Cottonwood ❖ Good Dog ❖ No Label Brewing Co. ❖ Petrol Station ❖ Porch Swing Pub ❖ Retrospect Coffee Bar ❖ Saint Danes Bar & Grille

If you are interested in taking Fido & Fluffy shopping, here’s some of our favorite dog boutiques to check out: ❖ Carter’s Pet Market ❖ Funny Fur ❖ The Flying M Feed Co. ❖ Three Dog Bakery: The Bakery for Dogs

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OUTDOOR EXPLORATION If your dog has always loved the outdoors and exploring new places, head to these locations for some new places to sniff and sights to see. ❖ Houston Arboretum ❖ McGovern Centennial Gardens in Hermann Park ❖ Menil Park If your dog loves other dogs, Houston has plenty of dog parks to enjoy. Here’s

some great options: ❖ Congressman Bill Archer Dog Park ❖ Danny Jackson Dog Park ❖ Millie Bush Dog Park No list would be complete without mentioning Rummy’s Beach Club with their private dog pool. Rummy’s is the perfect spot for your water-loving dog to take a dip. Swimming is excellent non-weight bearing exercise for dogs.

No matter the weather, you can have private swimming sessions at Rummy’s year round to keep your dog’s muscles in great shape and their heart happy.

Now more than ever, our pets are family. They are our companions, our friends, our loved ones. So naturally, we want them to be included when we are making plans. We hope that these ideas inspire you to get out there and explore Houston with your beloved senior dog!

For more information about mobility aids and keeping your senior dog safe, please visit lastwishes.com.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Tail End

SEIZE THE PLAY

AT CAMP BOW WOW Y

our dog deserves the best – they deserve the premier, allinclusive services of Camp Bow Wow. Camp Bow Wow’s doggy day care and boarding services put your pup first.

Dogs romp and play all day in spacious indoor and outdoor play yards, socializing with other dogs and humans.

Camp Bow Wow, Kemah was originally opened in November 2008 and was recently purchased by new owners, José F. Morillo and Joanie Morillo, July 2018. In 2008, Camp Bow Wow Kemah started a tradition of safe care for the pups in this area and it is their greatest honor to have the opportunity to continue this tradition.

The Camp Bow Wow Kemah team is extremely grateful for the trust that has been given to them over the previous years and will continue to earn that trust everyday by providing friendly attention to customer needs, caring service to all pups, as well as a safe over-all environment of fun!

Not only is Camp Bow Wow a fun place for pups to play, it also offers numerous benefits: ❖ Regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight

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CAMP BOW WOW KEMAH STARTED A TRADITION OF SAFE CARE FOR THE PUPS IN THIS AREA AND IT IS THEIR GREATEST HONOR TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO CONTINUE THIS TRADITION. Relief from boredom, separation anxiety and destructive behaviors ❖ Improved socialization with people and other dogs ❖ Increase in overall happiness When your pup is at Camp, you can rest assured that your dog is in safe and loving hands: ❖ All Camp Counselors are certified in pet first aid and CPR ❖ Facilities are monitored 24/7 ❖ Live web cams allow pet parents to check in on their dogs from anywhere At Camp Bow Wow, the price you see is the price you pay. Your dog’s day of play or overnight stay includes: ❖ All-day play in spacious play yards ❖ Check in/out anytime during Camp ❖

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Tail End

GOOD NUTRITION UNDERSTANDING

GUARANTEED ANALYSIS

ON FOOD PRODUCTS The Pet Food Institute petfoodinstitute.org

A

ll pet food is required to provide a Guaranteed Analysis (GA) on the product label. The GA provides product information to regulators who review each label for compliance with nutrient requirements and voluntary label claims. The GA also provides information to consumers to help them find the levels of at least four nutrients: protein, fat, fiber and moisture. Additional nutrients must be included in the GA if a product label makes a claim that mentions a specific nutrient, such as calcium for strong teeth and bones.

“Crude” Protein and Fat The term “crude” refers to the method used to determine the nutrient content of your pet’s food. Protein content is determined by analyzing levels of nitrogen, and fat content is determined by analyzing levels of lipids present. Some consumers mistakenly believe that “crude” refers to the quality of the nutrient. The two are unrelated.

Comparing Wet and Dry Pet Food The GA can also help consumer compare levels of nutrients in different pet foods. To make a meaningful comparison

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between a nutrient level in two foods, it’s important to evaluate the nutrient levels in the absence of the moisture content, in other words, on a “dry matter basis,” particularly when comparing wet and dry foods.

To Compare Two Pet Foods: First calculate the percentage of “dry matter” in each pet food by subtracting the percentage of moisture reported in the GA from 100 percent.

For example, the GA for moisture on a can of cat food may be listed as 70 percent, which equals 30 percent dry matter (100 percent minus 70 percent).

Next, for each product, divide the reported nutrient level you are interested in comparing by that product’s dry matter percentage.

Using the example above, if that same product GA reports 10 percent crude protein, then the product has a dry matter protein level of 33 percent (10 percent divided by 30 percent).

HOW IS THE GA CALCULATED? The data provided in the GA is calculated through either computer software, which maintains a database of the nutrient content of all ingredients, or through laboratory analysis.

PFI members employ advanced formulation methods to ensure every batch of their dog and cat food deliver all the nutrients indicated in the GA. Additional Nutrients Listed in GA Some pet food products may contain a GA for additional nutrients. If a product label makes a claim that mentions a specific nutrient, that nutrient is also required to be included in the GA. The pet food maker may also voluntarily list additional nutrients at their discretion to aid with informing consumers and strengthening the assurance of that pet food recipe’s nutritional adequacy.

The GA is just one part of the many steps pet food makers and regulators take to provide nutritious and safe food for your dog or cat.

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HoustonHumane.org Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Tail End

DIVORCE

LAW THE BEST INTEREST OF THE DOG By: Robert Teir, PLLC

I

n Texas law, dogs are property. For instance, the only damages a court can be awarded for the killing or taking of a dog is the retail value of the dog.

In Texas divorce law, like in most other states, the court has no obligation to make a custody decision. Indeed, our courts are permitted to order that a dog, no matter beloved, be sold and the proceeds of the sale divided. I think this is outright nuts.

A handful of other states have moved on from this simplistic and harsh law, and have, perhaps, shown the rest of the country what is likely in the legal future.

The Vermont Supreme Court had led the way, ruling that, while dogs are not the same as children, a family court must determine the best interests of a dog and make what is in fact, even if it is not yet called, a dog custody determination. In the divorce case, the parties’ only bone of contention (ok, sorry) was that both parties wanted to retain Belle, a German wirehaired pointer. There was no evidence that Belle had any market value beyond any other German wirehaired pointer.

The Vermont Court found it instructive

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THE JUDGE NOTED THAT MOST PEOPLE WOULD NOT PART WITH THEIR DOGS EVEN IF OFFERED ONE MILLION DOLLARS. that the husband treated Belle like a dog, while the wife tended to treat Belle like a child. In the end, the husband prevailed, because he was in the practice of taking Belle to work with him, routinely.

He was able to do so because he is a veterinarian.

More importantly, the Court held that “we hold that the family division may consider … the welfare of the animal and the emotional connection between the animal and each spouse.”

Prior to the Vermont case, a couple in San Diego spent $150,000 in a two-year court battle over possession of their pointer/greyhound mix, Gigi. The divorce court patiently heard evidence from an animal behaviorist and a video presentation, entitled "Day in the Life of Gigi."

A trial court in New York City joined the

trend in a case disputing custody of Joey, a miniature dachshund. The two spouses fighting over Joey brought evidence to the Court, such as the side of the bed where Joey preferred to sleep. The Judge noted that most people would not part with their dogs even if offered one million dollars. The Justice also had a retort to those who might argue that puppy custody determination was a waste of judicial resources, observing that, “if judicial resources can be devoted to such matters as to which party gets to use the Escalade as opposed to the Ferrari, or who gets the Hamptons house instead of the Aspen chalet, there is certainly room to give consideration to a case involving a treasured pet.”

California has elected to change its law, and follow Vermont, by legislation, rather than wait for a ruling from its high court.

The bill was signed into law by Jerry Brown, presumably in the presence of First Dogs Luci and Cali.

I suspect that, soon, dog custody determinations will become the norm. Whether the determination then stretches to other species will be a question for another day.

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Tail End

LIVE

ANIMALS

LEAVE THEM OUT OF EASTER

By Cheryl Conley, TWRC Wildlife Center

I

t's Easter time and for most of us it’s a very joyful time. For those of us who work with animals, it’s also a time of dread. Thousands of baby chicks, ducks and bunnies are purchased every year as Easter gifts only to be abandoned or taken to shelters once the novelty has worn off. Sadly, many are euthanized because homes cannot be found for them. Some think it’s okay to release these animals into the wild. This means certain death. They cannot fend for themselves and will die of starvation, exposure to the elements or will be preyed upon by other animals. Don’t think that you can simply take the animal to a shelter either.

Most animal welfare organizations are not equipped to handle animals given as Easter gifts. The only option for these groups is to try to rehome the animal and more often than not this is not possible and the animal must be

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euthanized.

As pets, there are health risks that should be considered as well. Most people do not understand that baby chicks and ducklings often carry a harmful bacteria called Salmonella and can infect your children.

Adopting an animal of any kind is a life-long commitment you must be willing to make. Easter bunnies can live up to 13 years, ducks up to 15 years and chicks up to 10. If you’re not willing to commit to providing the animal with love, food and shelter for its entire life, DON’T get one.

TWRC Wildlife Center would like to extend an invitation to come and visit us.

Why not schedule a tour of our facility to meet our animal ambassadors in person?

Click on the Education Center tab on the home page of our website to schedule a tour. Find out what we do and what’s involved in caring for injured, orphaned and displaced wildlife. It’s a world most people know very little about.

TWRC Wildlife Center is a 501(c)(3) notfor-profit organization operated by dedicated volunteer and part-time staff consisting of permitted rehabilitators, students, seniors, professionals, and animal lovers. TWRC was Houston’s first urban wildlife emergency and rehabilitative care facility. Since their founding in 1979, well over 100,000 injured, orphaned, or ill wild animals have passed through the hands of their caring volunteers. For more information visit TWRC online at twrcwildlifecenter.org.

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RESCUE REVEALED

PUP SQUAD ANIMAL RESCUE

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up Squad has been working in the greater Houston community rescuing puppies and their mommas for a decade. Their mission is to rescue pregnant mommas, nursing litters and young puppies from the streets and shelters, get them healthy, and match them with permanent adoptive homes. Pup Squad is run entirely by volunteers. The pups stay in foster homes while they wait for their forever homes learning what it is like to be safe and loved. Adoptable pups are heartworm negative, up to date on vaccinations, and receive veterinary care as needed.

For more information about Pup Squad, please visit pupsquad.org. Photography generously provided by Robyn Arouty.

MEET TIFFANY Tiffany is a hoot! She doesn’t always show her true self, but she’s a ton of fun once she gets to know you. In less than 24 hours, Tiffany showed off her hippo dance and advanced couch roll techniques. She enjoys napping, exploring the neighborhood, playing with toys and bones. Tiffany may be reserved at first, but if you’re looking for a low-key buddy, she’s your girl.

TIFFANY

MEET BENNY Sweet Benny just celebrated his fourth birthday. He’s a lovely gentleman who adores people, although he’s a little shy in the beginning. He’s graduated from basic obedience school and is a loving and affectionate dog. His favorite things are hanging out with his human, playing in the yard and he loves to run. He will make someone the perfect pet - he's just waiting for a very special family.

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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BENNY

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Kera, a 5 month old female lar gibbon, also known as the whitehanded gibbon, is photographed at Club Westside, The gibbon is the most endangered of all ape species.

WHY I LOVE ANIMALS

By: Michelle Mantor PhotographyByPrudence.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.

W

hen I was a kid, every year I would dutifully create my Christmas wish list to give to Santa. Years later, my mom pulled out all of my old lists to show me, (which she had somehow talked Santa into giving to her), and we had a good laugh because my number one and two items vacillated back and forth each year between a ring and a chimpanzee. I remember being so fascinated by Ellie Mae’s chimp from the TV show The Beverly Hillbillies and wanted nothing more than to have my own chimp to dress up and play with. I got the ring on many occasions but never the chimp.

Later in life, I learned the chimpanzee is a very dangerous animal and not one that I would ever have the opportunity to touch. However, my fascination with apes and monkeys remains and I could literally sit by the primate exhibit at the Houston Zoo and watch the animals all day long. There is something so human-like about them that I find intriguing, which is one of the many reasons I Love Animals - they evoke EMOTION within me at a strong level, be it empathy, laughter, fear, curiosity or admiration, but most definitely compassion.

Given my long history of interest in apes, you can imagine my joy at getting to hold this adorable baby gibbon. This could actually be the best photoshoot ever LOL! Meet Kera, a 5 month old LAR GIBBON who currently resides at Club Westside. When she is old enough, Kera will be donated to a wildlife sanctuary who has a male in need of a mate. Gibbons often retain the same mate for life, although they don’t always remain sexually monogamous. On occasion, pair-bonded gibbons may “divorce” but that is not typical. Due to their endangered status, mating is critical.

Before we talk about the gibbon, let’s back up and define the difference between monkeys and apes (I often encounter this misunderstanding). While apes and monkeys are both primates, and are part of the same primate suborder, there are lots of differences between them. Apes do not have tails, while most monkey species do and they tend to be larger and usually have larger brains. Common monkey species include marmoset, tamarin, spider, capuchin and baboons. Ape species include humans, gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans, gibbons, and bonobos.

Now that we have clarified that this cute little creature with big eyes and a button nose is a

gibbon, let’s talk about the characteristics of the species. Gibbons live in tropical and subtropical rainforests from eastern Bangladesh and northeast India to southern China and Indonesia (including the islands of Sumatra, Borneo, and Java). Sometimes referred to as lesser apes, gibbons differ from great apes in being smaller, exhibiting low sexual dimorphism (the difference between males and females is more than just sexual organs), and not making nests.

As the gibbon transports itself through the forest, they are super fast and are considered the fastest and most agile of all tree-dwelling, nonflying mammals. Hitting speeds up to 35 mph, they accomplish this by swinging from branch to branch. A special design in their wrist anatomy helps make this possible. They have biaxial movement, kind of like a ball and socket joint, that reduces stress on the shoulder so basically they can turn their wrist backwards!

Socially, gibbons are territorial and defend their territory quite “enthusiastically” with visual and vocal displays. Interestingly, the vocal element is quite something in the gibbon. They can be heard for distances up to a half mile and listeners may hear a duet between a mated pair.

Males and some females sing solos to attract mates as well as advertise their territories. To keep those singing voices healthy, the gibbon eats about 60% fruit and they also consume twigs, leaves, insects, flowers, and occasionally bird eggs.

Most importantly, the reason I highlight the gibbon this month is due to their endangered status. All 12 species of gibbons are endangered (gibbons are the most endangered species of all apes), primarily due to degradation or loss of their forest habitats for the construction of roads, agriculture, eco-tourism, domesticated cattle and elephants, forest fires, subsistence logging, illegal logging, new village settlement, and palm oil plantations. With continued loss of rainforest, there is a multitude of magnificent animals that our planet will lose. Some of the forest degradation we may not be able to impact as citizens in the US, but there are certainly a number of things we CAN DO to ensure future generations will have an opportunity to see gibbons as an active part of our eco-system. And, even if you don’t care about seeing a gibbon in the future, they also play an important role as fruit dispersers, meaning their

loss from an ecosystem may well have impacts on forest regeneration.

Some of the initiatives being undertaken to protect gibbons include cutting down on poaching by capturing and arresting more offenders. The gibbon is sometimes hunted for meat but also for the pet trade in which the parents are killed in order to take the babies. We must stand united with the local law enforcement and provide them the necessary help to strongly discourage hunting.

To reduce the deforestation problem, some things we can do in our own daily lives include insisting on responsibly harvested wood products, recycled or Forest Stewardship Council-certified paper, sustainable palm oil and beef are a few examples of actions we can take.

In addition, there are scientific groups and conservationists working to educate and find ways to save the species. On the island of Phuket in Thailand, a volunteer-based Gibbon Rehabilitation Center rescues gibbons that were kept in captivity, and are being released back into the wild. Kalaweit Project also has gibbon rehab centers on Borneo and Sumatra.

Here locally, you can also help by supporting the Houston Zoo who in turn, helps save animals in the wild. Our zoo is one of the top zoos internationally that dedicates a large portion of resources to wildlife conservation around the globe for many endangered animals. For their efforts, we at PetTalk want to help spread the word and you’ll find their conservation column in our publication each month explaining their various initiatives and most importantly, results.

In a report published in 2017, alarmingly about 60% of Earth’s non-human primate species, including apes, monkeys, gorillas, gibbons and lemurs, are threatened with extinction and about 75% have declining populations. The only way to stop this tragedy is for humans to change their behaviors and make conservation a priority. Kera and the many other types of primates sharing our planet are depending on us.

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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 organizations. This issue, we are highlighting gorilla conservation efforts in Rwanda. Look for other upcoming conservation stories so that you too can help save a species.

When you see gorillas at the Houston Zoo, you help save them in the wild.

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very time you visit the Houston Zoo and see the gorillas in the African Forest, you are saving gorillas in Africa.

Lee Ehmke meets with Dr. Noel in Rwanda

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By: Lauren Wappler, Houston Zoo, and Dr. Jean Bosco “Noel” Noheri, Gorilla Doctors, Rwanda

A portion of every admission ticket and membership supports actions around the world, including those of the Gorilla Doctors working in Rwanda. Gorilla Doctors is

Photos ©Houston Zoo

SEE THEM. SAVE THEM.

a group of African veterinarians that provide life-saving medical care for wild gorillas.

One field veterinarian with the Gorilla Doctors is Dr. Jean Bosco “Noel” Noheri.

Every week he treks into the high-altitude Volcanoes National Park to check on the health of wild mountain gorilla families.

Because of his dedication to saving gorillas, Dr. Noel was offered advanced veterinary training by Houston Zoo veterinarians. He assisted with several medical procedures on a variety of species and received training on new veterinary equipment and record keeping techniques.

These trainings will help Dr. Noel with his procedures in Africa.

During his visit to Houston, Noel also participated in the

annual crab trap clean-up with fellow Houston Zoo and Dallas Zoo staff. “To me this experience was equivalent to our ‘Umuganda’ which means ‘community work’ in Rwanda,” Noel says. On the last Saturday of every month, Noel and the local people of Rwanda come together to clean and improve their community. “’Umuganda’ is not only about cleaning or making roads,” Noel continues.

“It is very important for bringing people together, educating one another, and

building love. That Saturday at the clean-up, one could not tell who was from Rwanda, Dallas, Galveston, or Houston because we were one great team for one great cause.”

Recently Houston Zoo CEO Lee Ehmke traveled to Rwanda to assist with gorilla conservation work. While there he spent time with Noel and saw some of the gorillas under his care. The Zoo and you are supporting his and the rest of the Gorilla Doctors work to protect the gorillas we love!

“’UMUGANDA’ IS NOT ONLY ABOUT CLEANING OR MAKING ROADS,” NOEL CONTINUES. “IT IS VERY IMPORTANT FOR BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER, EDUCATING ONE ANOTHER, AND BUILDING LOVE. THAT SATURDAY AT THE CLEAN-UP, ONE COULD NOT TELL WHO WAS FROM RWANDA, DALLAS, GALVESTON, OR HOUSTON BECAUSE WE WERE ONE GREAT TEAM FOR ONE GREAT CAUSE.”

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CONSERVATION CORNER

WILD

RAPTORS

BIRDS OF PREY

By Cheryl Conley, TWRC Wildlife Center

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ave you ever heard of a hawk vest, raptor shield or coyote vest? I had no idea they even existed until I started researching for this article. Although they may go by different names, they are all very similar and serve the same purpose. They claim to protect small animals from birds of prey, coyotes and even aggressive dogs. You may think this is silly and even a little ridiculous but if you’re someone who has suffered the loss of a pet snatched by a raptor or coyote, it makes perfect sense. As recently as January 18th in Pennsylvania, an 8-pound bichon frise was playing in the backyard when an eagle swooped down, grabbed it with its talons and flew off with it. Not to worry. For some unknown reason, the eagle dropped it 4 miles away and the dog recovered.

A bird of prey is a meat-eater but not all birds of prey are raptors. Eagles, owls, ospreys, kites, hawks, buzzards, harriers, vultures, and falcons are all raptors. Three traits help distinguish a raptor from other birds of prey and these three traits make raptors excellent hunters. A raptor has a curved beak with sharp edges, sharp claws or talons and excellent eyesight.

Of all the animals in the animal

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kingdom, raptors have the best eyesight.

Their eyesight is 6 to 8 times better than ours and the eagle has the best eyesight of all raptors. It is believed that an eagle can spot a rabbit up to a mile away.

The talons, or claws, of raptors are curved downward and are razor sharp. If you were to see a raptor’s foot up close you would notice rough bumps on the pads of the feet which aid in hanging onto their prey. The raptor swoops down and with a vise-like grip either kills the prey or inflicts serious wounds.

The beaks of raptors are all the same.

They are curved with very sharp edges.

They use their beaks to tear off fur, pull out feathers and tear meat into bite-sized pieces that they swallow whole. Raptors also have what we would call a “tooth” on the inside of the upper part of their beak.

It’s shaped like a triangle and is called a tomila. This is used to cut the spinal cord of its prey.

If you come across an injured raptor, there are very important steps to take to insure your safety and the safety of the bird. First, call TWRC Wildlife Center. If the bird doesn’t fly away when approached, this doesn’t always mean it’s injured. It could be protecting food or babies. If it is

determined that the bird actually needs rescuing, we will direct you on how to safely capture and restrain the hawk. If you do not feel comfortable handling the hawk, we can recommend other options for transport. If it is injured, you’ll need heavy gloves, safety glasses and a thick towel or blanket. Throw the towel or blanket over the bird and take hold of the bird by keeping its wings close to its body and your hands out of reach of the talons.

Darkness helps calm birds and the towel provides that. Place the bird in a sturdy box or pet carrier that is only slightly larger than the bird. If it’s too large, the bird will be able to flop around and could inflict even more injuries. Be sure to remove the towel or blanket from the container. Now place that towel or blanket over the carrier. Bring the bird to us as quickly as possible for care. Please do not attempt to feed the bird or provide water.

As with most wild animals, it is illegal to have raptors in your possession. They are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918.

If you have any wildlife questions or would like to volunteer, give us a call at 713-468-8972 or check our website at twrcwildlifecenter.org.

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