Houston PetTalk July 2020 by houstonpettalk10

July 2020

Pets & Patriotism

LAND OF THE HOME OF THE

Free Brave

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The most compassionate specialized care for senior pets over the age of 7!

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Senior Paws T O T HE B EST Y EARS Y ET

About Us

Our Services

Senior Paws (formally known as Last Wishes) is a specialized mobile veterinary care program staffed by credentialed professionals designed to help families meet the unique needs of senior and geriatric pets in the Greater Houston area.

• • • • • • • • • • •

Senior Paws aims to fill the growing need for improved client engagement and exceptional care. We exist to improve the health and quality of life for older pets while putting family values and preferences at the heart of important decisions. Pets and families enrolled in our compassionate program receive the support they’ve been looking for and experience greatly improved outcomes. Our expertise in case management allows us to work with other trusted medical professionals to provide the best total care for older companions.

Senior Paws Family Care Support Center 3036 Antoine Dr., Houston, TX 77092

713-452-0474

Senior/Geriatric Pet Health Consultations Pet Hospice & Palliative Care Pain Management Veterinary Acupuncture Class IV Therapeutic Laser Medical Pet Massage Senior Pet Grooming & Hygiene Care In-Home Euthanasia Environmentally Friendly Water-Based Cremation Pet Memorial Keepsakes Pet Loss/Grief Counseling - Group & Individual

Our DVMs Christie Cornelius, DVM CHPV Julia Spade, DVM CHPV CVMA Erica Sandberg, DVM CAETA-Cert. Elizabeth Rowlands, DVM CAETA-Cert. Laura Ron, DVM Emma Brawn, DVM

wecare@seniorpaws.vet www.seniorpaws.vet

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You can join our pack in a few ways:

We Need you

to join our pack

Raise awareness for the PAW Grant. Share it with your friends, family, and coworkers Donate to the PAW Grant In-person. Ask our client care team to round up your bill to the nearest dollar when checking out. SLVS24EC saw almost 20,000 new pets in 2019. If every pet owner rounded up to the nearest dollar, those pennies would have generated more than $10,000 On-line. You can donate to the PAW Grant through the bit.ly link, then join our online Facebook Group for PAWtners to get updates on when grants are released, what the PAW Grant is doing, and insider information to all of SLVS24EC

A pack is an extended family group and the great thing is, you get to choose your pack. When a pet is brought to SLVS24EC, we know it is one of the darkest days of that pet’s life and in the life of their family. When you choose SLVS24EC to help you at that time, you become part of our pack- our extended family group. Our goal is to get that pet well or to extend the time that pet feels well until it’s time to say goodbye. For all of our diagnostic capabilities, talented specialists and emergency doctors, advanced veterinary nurses and support staff, we cannot achieve wellness for pets on our own. Pet parents who come to SLVS24EC are good pet parents but there are times that the cost to achieve wellness is higher than they can afford. We offer payment plans through Scratch Pay and Care Credit, accept every single major credit or debit card, and take donations from family or friends over the phone to help cover the cost to achieve wellness. Sometimes, that’s still not enough and pet parents need additional help. Our dedicated team, tired of having their hands tied by these situations outside of their control, wanted to do more. They wanted to be a different kind of veterinary specialty and emergency hospital. That’s how the PAW (Packs Achieve Wellness) Grant was created, from our dedicated teams burning desire to do more- be more. But we can’t do it alone.

Join our pack and donate to the PAW Grant by going here:

DON’T LET OSTEOARTHRITIS PAIN

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

Has trouble getting up from a resting position

Is reluctant to run, play or climb stairs

Has gained weight in the past year

Limps or appears stiff after exercise

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

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

Shop at our online store!

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

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

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

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

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

©2016 VCA Inc. VCA logo is registered trademarks of VCA Inc. or its affiliated entities. Management Services Provided by VCA Animal Hospitals • Animal Healthcare of Texas, P.C. Rocky McKelvey, DVM - owner

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

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

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

AT VCA ANIMAL HOSPITALS, WE CARE

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

ON THE COVER

ALL AMERICAN

THE MONTH OF JULY REPRESENTS FREEDOM THAT WE AS AMERICANS ENJOY BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE. IN GRATITUDE TO ANIMALS WHO SERVE, OUR COVER BOY "FREEDOM" REPRESENTS ONE OF THE MOST DESIRED GOALS OF HUMANITY - TO BE FREE. ENJOY OUR PETS AND PATRIOTISM ISSUE AS WE SALUTE ANIMALS AND THEIR TRAINERS WHO SERVE THEIR COUNTRY AND COMMUNITY. EDITOR MICHELLE MANTOR & ADAIR SPINKS POSE WITH FREEDOM AT FIVE HORSES AFTER "WRANGLING" HIM AROUND THE PASTURE FOR JUST THE RIGHT COVER SHOT! COVER IMAGE:

et us form one body, one heart, and defend to the last warrior our country, our homes, our liberty, and the graves of our fathers." This is a quote that embodies the idea of patriotism - the devotion to one's country - but what I find fascinating is that the quote is from Techumsah, the Shawnee Chief and Warrior who represented a people who lost their freedom and land to the U.S. government through forced migration. He fought valiantly in wars and worked tirelessly through coalition building to defend his land, his country, his people, thus displaying the basic tenets of a patriot. Today, patriots still abound in this land we call America with men, women and animals all striving to maintain liberty, freedom and justice for all. I personally am thankful for all who serve our country in the military to defend the values of our great nation, including the brave animals that risk their lives or perform their talents to serve the mission, even though they are not given a "choice" to the extent humans are. Bomb sniffing dogs, service dogs for wounded veterans, dolphins that assist the U.S. Navy, camels that serve as walking water fountains in the Middle East and even horses (who are mostly ceremonial in the military today although our Special Forces use horses on a limited basis in Afghanistan) are among the animals that assist our military and who deserve our gratitude and appreciation. The resounding appeal of America has always been FREEDOM - Freedom from religious persecution, Freedom from injustice, Freedom to pursue individual ideas and Freedom to choose anything from our lead-

ers to the products we want to purchase. It is this focus on Freedom that prompted me to envision our cover shot. Many of you are aware that the cover horse is my friend that I rescued in 2016 (along with the help of many others!) and his name is Freedom, which is appropriate for this issue and represents the Freedom he gained from abuse and neglect to live a life of love and safety that he deserves. I love that the photo represents America both past and current. I have a deep respect for Native American culture and the many diverse cultures that created the country we have today. Although far from perfect, America remains a beacon of hope and courage. It goes without saying that our country is enduring strife, which is inevitable when human nature is involved. I pray we grow stronger as a nation, heal together, promote personal responsibility and try harder to find ways to get along rather than finding ways to further divide ourselves. In this prayer, animals come to mind. Their nature is simple: they want to get along and live in peace and they only invite strife when necessary for food or safety. They don't judge, they don't complain, they don't act out of malice. In my opinion, their value goes even further. Many are motivated to please and to serve. In this issue, let's celebrate the service of animals that give to their country and community in hopes of reminding ourselves that service is paramount to a life well-lived. As Martin Luther King said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?”

PHOTOGRAPHYBYPRUDENCE.COM

HOUSTON PETTALK MAGAZINE 14781 Memorial Drive, Ste. 510, Houston, Texas 77079 281-556-6560 Art Director: ANDREW BURWELL

© Copyright 2020. 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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hen the dragon lady gave me my assignment for this issue, she said "It's about Patriotism. Write something pithy." First of all my horned leader, you should get that lisp fixed. And, if we must speak in your terms, I need a larger word count…lest it be "pith poor". I guess I should stop insulting the editor because she will most likely read this. Ahhh Texas! I feel most qualified to write about Texas because I'm not a purebred. I was born a hillbilly but found Texas in my later years. Experiencing something out of choice rather than necessity gives you an objective view. Coming from Appalachia, I feel fully qualified to comment on pick-up trucks, chewin' tobacco, Hank Williams crooning the "Honky Tonk Blues", beef jerky for breakfast, roadkill, oversized hair and patriotism. Those are the things my two resident states have in common but I prefer to focus on what makes the Lone Star State unique and why I love being a Texan. First, I love anything ginormous. That includes steaks, male muscles, biggie fries at Wendy's, TV screens, belt buckles, bathtubs and of course, diamonds. Texas itself is ginormous and I like living in a state that can kick all of the other states' "arses". (This is a little off topic but I feel compelled to also mention things I like to be small…taxes, government, my waistline, the line at the fire hydrant and the size at birth of any puppies I may have in the future). Back to why I love Texas. In addition to our total land grab, I love the attitude of my compadres - Independent, loyal, unsnooty (is that a word?) and believers in the first and second amendment - for the most part. There are some transplants to Texas from Oregon and Vermont that might not

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embrace the bill of rights but as my friend Jackknife likes to say, "it don't take a genius to spot a goat in a flock of sheep." (He's named Jackknife because he can lick his hindquarters without sitting down). You can't really jawbone on what's great about Texas without focusing on the gastro elements. Where to start? When one visualizes a sizzling' steak, you think Texas beef. And OH the Tex Mex…carne asada, salsa so hot you can't think, super luscious cheesy queso. Which of course brings me to the best part…the beverages! Margarita is my favorite girl in a cup. Salted

rim, top shelf tequila in a bucket sized glass. Because yes, everything is bigger in Texas! We have the beverage industry covered. We make tequila, wine and beer. What else is there? We are a big state with a big appetite and a big selection of food and beverage. We also have a big hunk O' man, a.k.a. JJ Watt. Now that's BIG. And who could forget the "Legacy of Bigs" from the Houston Rockets. I have a few family members that are also the Legacy of Bigs but it's actually horizontal big, not vertical. Now, let's talk about the stuff we

have that's "purdy". Bluebonnets, horse farms, our flag, horned lizards (that's probably a matter of opinion), the Alamo, prairies, the Hill Country, NASA, canyons and Matthew McConaughey. (We have a few things that are "unpurdy" too…bayous, mosquitoes, George R. Brown Convention Center, the Enron legacy and too many pet owners that don't spay and neuter). We also have some of my all time favorite sayings. Here's a few: 1. If you get to thinkin' you're a person of some influence, try orderin' somebody else's dog around. 2. If you're ridin' ahead of the herd, take a look back every now and then to make sure it's still there. 3. When you give a lesson in meanness to a critter or a person, don't be surprised if they learn their lesson. I think just about anyone that visits Texas feels like they are practically in another country. My cousin Harold thinks WE ARE another country but that's another story. In my column a few months back, you may remember I opined on why Texas should secede from the Union and I think it's appropriate to reiterate my sentiments. It's obvious we have everything a country would need: Everyone in the world knows where it is, the odds of meeting an astronaut are high, we don't need to conceal handguns (we'd rather you know we can shoot you), we invented Dr. Pepper, we have Tex-Mex, ZZ Top and Schlitterbahn. And the best reason is what we DON'T have: State Income Tax - duh!

Illustration by Jim Tweedy, Colorized by Desiree Lonsway

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Winner: Petula

Charlie

PAWS UP FOR PATRIOTISM CONTEST: ENTRIES GAVE IT UP FOR THE RED, WHITE, & BLUE!

s America stands strong in a time of difficulty, the true grit of our nation shines through. We wanted to celebrate the Red, White & Blue by showcasing pets in their best AmericanInspired ensemble. We had so many GREAT entries! Finalists were chosen by public voting and the winner, "Petula", was chosen by our sponsor, VERGI 24/7. Congrats to Petula and thank you to all of our patriots! See all entries on houstonpettalk.com. VERGI 24/7 is a 24-Hour Emergency Hospital at 8921 Katy Frwy. Learn more at vergi247.com.

Hank

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Link Rd

THE DISH CELEBRATING 25 YEARS SERVING HOUSTON PETS

family-owned veterinary clinic in the Spring Branch District has a lot to be proud of this summer. While Bingle Vet started its existence in a converted 2-bedroom family house back in the early 60’s, in was closed in 1993 for 2 years before Dr. Robert Vaughan took ownership in May 1995. The Vaughan family is extremely excited to celebrate 25 years servicing local family pets. They have managed to stand strong in the community during many environmental challenges, including Hurricane Ike in 2008, Hurricane Harvey in 2017 and currently during these difficult pandemic times. Dr. Vaughan made a commitment during these adversities to be there for his clients. In addition to celebrating the 25 year milestone, the Vaughan family has even more to be proud of as Dr. Vaughan’s daughter, Victoria Vaughan, follows her fathers’ footsteps in veterinary medicine. Victoria graduated with her veterinary degree in May. She is currently referred to as the “New” Dr. Vaughan. Growing up in the family business and being a part of providing healthcare to animals helped inspire her to tackle veterinary school with passion and determination. The Vaughan family is extremely grateful for the support for the local Spring Branch community. Stay tuned for a 25th Anniversary celebration later in the year to commemorate this amazing milestone!

Dr. Vaughan’s daughter, Victoria Vaughan, followed her father's footsteps and graduated with her veterinary degree in May from Ross University Veterinary School in St. Kitts.

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THE DISH PET-FREE SAFETY ZONES FOR YARD AND HOME

INVISIBLE FENCE BRAND

our pets provide a source of happiness, comfort, entertainment, and purpose all of which are especially welcome in these stressful times. A lot of people are adopting new pets to help cope with the "new normal" workfrom-home and social distancing era. Whether you're enjoying the pet you already had or adding a pet to your family, you will want to set clear boundaries for effortless home life. Your pets need to know where they are expected to be or not to be. Wouldn't it be perfect to eliminate saying "no" or experiencing alarm or annoyance when your pet shreds your favorite something

or gets into something dangerous? A lot of people don't realize this, but Invisible Fence Brand has many ways to create Pet-Free Zones within your house or in your yard. Having a worry-free experience with such simple solutions provides joy to families as well as the solution providers. Keeping pets at home is very much an essential business and Invisible Fence Brand is available for you. They are currently offering $30 off their Shields Plus Avoidance Solution. Give them a call for details at 800-DOG-6000. Stay safe and enjoy your pets!

AWARD

HARRIS COUNTY PETS: FOSTER VOLUNTEER NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED J

ennifer Lyons, foster volunteer at the Harris County Animal Shelter, has been recognized as one of 22 National Foster Heroes by the Petco Foundation and Skechersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; charity footwear collection, BOBS from Skechers in celebration of National Foster a Pet Month in June. Lyons, a resident of Tomball, Texas, has fostered about 200 kittens from the shelter since starting her involvement with Harris County Pets four years ago. Lyons' constant dedication to save the lives of pets has contributed to the shelter's high live-release rate, which has exceeded 90 percent. Houston PetTalk Magazine

THE DISH GALVESTON ISLAND HUMANE SOCIETY

20TH ANNUAL PAWS GALA SET FOR SEPTEMBER 19TH W e are excited for the return of petcentric events (with proper socialdistancing of course). Join us in saving the date for a very special event, the 20th Annual PAWS Gala benefiting Galveston Island

Humane Society. The gala is set for September 19th at the Galveston Island Convention Center. Find out details or purchase your ticket to support this valuable organization at GalvestonHumane.org.

SHOP LOCAL

CBD HEALTH CLUB S HUGREM Grooming Pet Inn & Day Care has partnered with the CBD Health Club of Houston, to provide its outstanding CBD pet products to its customer base. SHUGREM will be selling CBD products on their website, shugremgrooming.com, as well as in their retail location at 9416 S Texas 6, Houston, TX 77083. The first round of products include 500mg CBD Pet Drops, 150mg Pet Treats and 250mg Pet Shampoo. The CBD Health Club markets their products through an E-commerce site, CBDHealthClub.com, and via Distributors around the United States. They offer a major specialty in THC free, CBD Pet Products, which help pets with pain, anxiety, skin issues and overall wellness. Mike Burns, Co-Founder and local Houstonian, said that he sources his CBD from certified hemp fields in Colorado and California and all of the products come with third party lab Certificates of Analysis (COA’s). Not only does CBD Health Club offer high quality, tested products but they also offer FREE SHIPPING!

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ould you like to see behind the scenes, exclusive photos and video of PetTalk’s photoshoots? Would you like to have access to information about upcoming pet events or news right in your inbox? To get that valuable information and more, including prompts to enter our many contests throughout the year and messages from our local sponsors, all you have to do is sign up by visiting houstonpettalk.com and click the newsletter link at the top of the page. Our VIPP (Very Important Pet Parent) Newsletter is bi-monthly. We promise you won’t hear from us too much, we won’t share your information and we also promise you’ll Dig It!

Nine Nine NineLocations Locations LocationsProudly Proudly ProudlyServing Serving Servingthe the theGreater Greater GreaterHouston Houston HoustonArea! Area! Area!

Full-Service Full-Service Full-ServiceGrooming Grooming Grooming•••Healthy Healthy HealthyPet Pet PetFoods Foods Foods Gourmet Gourmet GourmetBaked Baked BakedTreats Treats Treats•••Stylish Stylish StylishEssentials Essentials Essentials•••Plush Plush Plush&&&Tough Tough ToughToys Toys Toys Collars Collars Collars&&&Leashes Leashes Leashes•••and and andMuch Much MuchMore! More! More!

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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!

#SHAREWITHUS! LET THERE BE LOVE

1. @jackson_the_dalmatian #BelieveInLove 2. @ bambamthemaltipoo Blocking out all the bad vibes #dogpics #bambam #maltipoo #dogs #love #puppydogs #instadog #cooldog #happy #houstondoggopics #photo #instagood #happiness #weather #goodvibes #vibes #positive #tongueout 3. @lunabear_chronicles My favorite place with my best friend! Tenting all day long

SUMMER SCENES

4. @remy_and_rijks living for these summer nights 5. @shakes_the_shih_tzu Sunday walk 6. @oliverandcamille #storm #rainyday #quarantinelife #doodlesofinstagram #cuteemergency #dogsofinsta #dogsofinstagram #peloton #pelotonpuppy #keto #friday #friyay

WE HAVE LIFT OFF

7. @malibu.the.doodette Doodle Astronaut Malibu reporting for duty! Photo Credits: @alex.bailey. photography 8. @bookofkenzo Ready for takeoff #spacex #elonmusk #outofthisworld #NASA #iwanttobeanastronaut #spacetravel #crewdragon #falcon9 #toinfinityandbeyond #dinosaur 9. @screwstondoodle Hurry back home, @astro.doug and @bobbehnken.nasa! #launchamerica @spacex @nasa @nasakennedy #screwstondoodle #nasa #spacex #pettalkmag #pettalkgofetch #houston #htown #texas #screwston #spacexfalcon9 #spacexdragon #doodletales #houstonpuppy #houstondogs #aussiedoodle

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on p u o C With

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LAND OF THE HOME

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Free OF THE Brave T

rue patriotism springs from a belief in the dignity of the individual, freedom and equality not only for Americans but for all people on earth, universal brotherhood and good will, and a constant striving toward the principles and ideals on which this country was founded.” Those powerful words from Eleanor Roosevelt are a reminder of what ideals America was founded upon and through tough times it behooves each of us not to forget that patriots of America strive for liberty, freedom and justice for all. To date, 2020 has been a test of our valor. Some have met the call, others have failed. That is the nature of humanity. We will not always get it right but if we are willing to listen, forgive, take personal responsibility

By: Michelle Mantor and contributing writers Photos: PhotographyByPrudence.com pg. 22-29

and reach our hand out to another in service, our hearts will not harden, our days will be brighter, our future will be stronger. I am a proud American; I love Ol’ Glory, our beautiful flag; I get chills during the Star Spangled Banner; I respect our military and those that have lost their lives so that we may live as a free nation; I believe our Constitution is a masterpiece; On the whimsical side, I will walk a mile to see fireworks on the 4th of July! To me, the pride of being an American is deeply rooted in service. The sacrifices our countrymen have made around the world to help others is inspiring. Do we make mistakes? Yes, it is inevitable that no man, no nation is perfect but the ideal of liberty, freedom and justice for all is worth pursuing relentlessly.

When I think of service to our country, or even service to one’s community, it wouldn’t be a complete picture without recognizing the many animals that have also served their country and community. As we celebrate Independence Day this month, I also wanted to celebrate the amazing gifts that animals bring to our lives in both companionship and service. In this feature, we are highlighting both animals and people that have served others for the greater good. From military working dogs to pets that serve as grief therapists, animals deserve our respect and gratitude and it is with reverence that I share their stories with you.

CREDITS: Watch the BEHIND THE SCENES Video of our Cover Photoshoot and feature story by visiting youtube.com/houstonpettalk and witness what great fun we had creating the cover and feature stories! We would like to give a shout out to the many awesome people that made our feature story possible. Thank you to Five Horses, LLC where we photographed the cover image and where Freedom boards and is very well cared for. A special thank you to Adair Spinks and Alexis Buzzini for grooming and styling Freedom; Thank you to Sian Mantor for his videography services. Mucho appreciation to the wonderful folks at the Fallen Warriors War Memorial and Gallery for their hospitality in allowing us to photograph at this beautiful memorial.

Pets & Patriotism Houston PetTalk Magazine

Serving Their

Country SEARCH & RESCUE

ORGANIZATION: Texas A&M Task Force One – Urban Search and Rescue PICTURED: Canine Search Specialist, Denise Corliss, and her canine partner Taser next to a bronze statue of Bretagne Corliss

ABOUT THE TASK FORCE

Texas A&M Task Force 1 (TX-TF1) functions as one of the 28 federal teams under the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s National Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) System and as a statewide urban search and rescue team under direction of the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM). TX-TF1 also coordinates the state’s swiftwater rescue program and the helicopter search and rescue team which works in conjunction with Texas Military Department. CAPABILITIES: TX-TF1 has a number of different capabilities including Urban Search & Rescue, Water Rescue, Mission Ready Packages and Helicopter Rescue. DEPLOYMENTS: Since its inception in 1997, Texas A&M Task Force 1 has been on over 100 deployments with at least one deployment per year.

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eet Taser Corliss, an 8-year-old Golden Retriever who comes from a family with a long history of service. Taser is a FEMA certified disaster dog and the third canine in a row from the Corliss home who has a career in search and rescue. Taser follows in the shadows of his famous sister Bretagne who was the last known search dog that responded to the World Trade Center following the attacks on 9/11. Taser was selected at 8 weeks old by his “mom” and handler, Denise Corliss, as the next pup to carry on the legacy of service. Taser stood out among his littermates and appeared early on to have the temperament and drive that are essential for a successful search dog. As a young dog Taser became a member of the local fire department and was introduced to the sights and sounds of emergency response. This allowed him to learn quickly that lights, sirens, smoke, and rescue personnel were distractions to ignore as he performed his job in to locate missing people.

Taser is also a member of Texas A&M Task Force One. Texas A&M Task Force One is one of the 28 federal Urban Search and Rescue teams in the United States. The Task Force responds to natural and man-made disasters within the State of Texas and the nation. At the age of two Taser became a certified FEMA disaster dog with the Task Force and continues to serve in that roll today. Over his 6-year career as a working dog Taser has deployed to numerous disasters including Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Marie in Puerto Rico. His most recent responses were early in 2020; he deployed to an explosion in Harris County, he also helped search for survivors following tornados in north Texas. Although Taser continues to perform his job well, retirement is on the horizon. There is a new Golden pup in Corliss home that is currently positioning herself to take his place. She too is destined for disasters, and with any luck she will carry on the tradition of service to her country.

RETIRED MILITARY CANINES NEED A LOVING HOME

ORGANIZATION: Mission K9 Rescue BY: Bob Bryant, CTO of Mission K9 Rescue, Featured Adoptables: Belgian Malinois "Yogi" and GSD "Ory"

erving working dogs around the world is a dream that has become reality for lifetime Houstonian, Kristen Regan Maurer. Maurer leads the team at Mission K9 Rescue, a non-profit with global reach, having rescued almost 1000 working dogs since 2013. Over 450 of those dogs were reunited with former handlers. Their Magnolia Veteran K9 Ranch and Rehabilitation Facility is the first of its kind. Mission K9 takes in a variety of retired working dogs. Many were the property of the US Government. They are known as Military Working Dogs (MWD). They perform tasks such as patrol, narcotics detection, and explosives detection. These well trained dogs deploy with as many as four handlers during their careers. Once retired, the first handler normally has the option to adopt their MWD, followed by the second, and so on. MWD’s are normally retired by the military around 10-11 years of age. They have no

government retirement care. Contract Working Dogs do the same jobs as Military Working Dogs, yet they are owned by private companies. They may work alongside US troops or be handled by foreign nationals. They are often victims of poor capitalization and the dogs can be stranded overseas. Mauer and the Mission K9 team rescue these dogs from places like Kuwait, where they are used to screen cargo for drugs and explosives. They travel to the dog’s location and fly the dogs home to Houston where they are rehabilitated at their Magnolia facility. Most Contract Working Dogs do not have American handlers to return to. These dogs undergo a meticulous process where they learn how to be a dog again. They don’t have to catch the bad guy, they don’t have to hunt for bombs and drugs, they learn the joy of a couch. The public can adopt these hero working dogs from Mission

CWD “Ory” K9. The dogs are matched to each potential adopter based on details on their application that can be found at missionk9rescue.org. Some dogs are harder to place than others. Households with multiple pets present a challenge. Working dogs also require a great deal of time for enrichment, stimulation, and walks. Lots and lots of walks! More than anything, these dogs just want love and the comfort of a warm and caring home. Don’t pass these senior pets by! They have skills and obedience most dogs cannot match. Most are sweet and loving, hoping for a home with someone just like you!

MWD Yyogi P191, United States Air Force, Ret., call name “Yogi”

To support these Working Dog Heroes, shop online, adopt or donate to their valuable cause at missionk9rescue.org. Houston PetTalk Magazine

Disabled Navy Veteran, Lisa Eller, and her service dog Blake with Executive Director of Give Us Paws, Paul Buescher

TRAINING SERVICE DOGS FOR DISABLED VETERANS ORGANIZATION: Give Us Paws EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Paul Buescher, CPDT-KA, KPA CTP

housands of veterans are returning home each year suffering from PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), MST (Military Sexual Trauma), TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury), and limited mobility. Veteran suicide rates are more than double that of civilian suicides. Unfortunately, the VA (Dept. of Veterans Affairs) does not provide funding for one of the effective avenues of treatment that can be used to return disabled lives to some normalcy: service dogs & service dog training for veterans. Adding to this complexity, when a veteran experiences a medical emergency and they have no one to care for their animals while hospitalized, the VA Hospital Emergency Room or a VA social worker will contact Houston Animal Control, and the dogs go to the city shelter, sometimes never to be recovered by their owner. Give Us Paws (GUP), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation was formed

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by disabled US Navy Veteran, Paul Buescher, CPDT-KA, KPA CTP as a solution to this problem. Give Us Paws provides a free service dog training program that teaches both the disabled veteran handler and the dog as a team how to change their behaviors positively while training the dogs to perform tasks which mitigate the disabled handler’s symptoms. GUP trains the handler and dog after rigorous selection for temperament and fit. GUP also rescues dogs that meet stringent requirements from local shelters or rescue organizations. Give Us Paws is established as the first point of contact for the VA ER and social workers when an animal needs to be cared for while their veteran owner receives the care that they need. GUP will pick up the animal from the VA hospital or recover them from the city animal shelter, pays the fees and find a foster before the veteran owner loses possession of the animal in as little as seven days.

To donate to the valuable work of Give Us Paws, visit their website at giveuspaws.org.

Give Us Paws is established as the first point of contact for the VA ER and social workers when an animal needs to be cared for while their veteran owner receives the care that they need. GUP will pick up the animal from the VA hospital or recover them from the city animal shelter, pays the fees and find a foster before the veteran owner loses possession of the animal in as little as seven days. To help alleviate these problems, GUP offers a program that is a one-year intensive curriculum requiring logged training, they can

utilize the handler’s existing dog in some cases or assist in obtaining a shelter dog, their facility allows their certified trainers to train multiple teams at once and they find fosters for animals that need to be cared for while their disabled owners are receiving treatment. Give Us Paws depends of the support of the community to continue its work. Donations from individuals, businesses and organizations are tax-deductible. To learn more about Give Us Paws, visit giveuspaws.org or call 281509-9309.

Executive Director of Give Us Paws with his service dog, Addie

FALLEN WARRIORS MEMORIAL ORGANIZATION: Fallen Warriors Memorial and Service Dog Memorial BY: Ron Walkoviak and Cheryl Whitfield

n October 6, 2012, the Fallen Warriors Memorial was dedicated in a public ceremony in which over 1,500 people attended. The Fallen Warriors Memorial was built to honor the men and women from the State of Texas that have been killed in action in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars following the attack on the United States of America on September 11, 2001. On May 18, 2019, the Service Dog Memorial was dedicated in a public ceremony in which several hundred people attended. The Service Dog Memorial was built to honor civilian and military service dogs. Bretagne (Brittany) is a Golden Retriever rescue dog that worked at the World Trade center site immediately after September 11, 2001. CPL Eli is a black Labrador Retriever that worked as a bomb sniffing military service dog in Afghanistan with his handler marine LCPL Colton Rusk. LCPL Colton Rusk was killed in action in Afghanistan while working a mission with CPL Eli. Life-size bronze sculptures of Bretagne and CPL Eli were created by world famous sculptor and Texan Edd Hayes. The Fallen Warriors Memorial was created from the vision of Cheryl Whitfield, founder of the National Memorial Ladies and was built with funds donated by many generous people and with funding from Cy-Champ PUD. The Service Dog Memorial was built with funds donated by the public but primarily with funding by Cy-Champ PUD. Both Memorials are located in beautiful Cy-Champ Park and both Memorials are owned and maintained by Cy-Champ PUD. You can learn more about the Memorials by visiting their website, fallenwarriorstexas.org. The physical address is 14619 Cutten Road, Houston, Texas 77069.

THE GALLERY

The Fallen Warriors Memorial Gallery contains the portraits of the men and women from the State of Texas that were killed in action during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. The names of these same men and women are carved in the granite walls of the Fallen Warriors Memorial. The commemorative paintings are the work of renowned artist Ken Pridgeon, a United States Air Force veteran, who has promised to paint the portrait of every Texas service member killed so he or she can be honored, remembered and never forgotten. The paintings are an array of brilliant colors and depict each service member in a unique and memorable way. Strolling the gallery and looking into the eyes of these fallen soldiers is quite powerful and emotional. Please visit the gallery - you will not be disappointed! The gallery is thoughtfully cared for and curated by the National Memorial Ladies, along with Veteran Lynn Kromer, who volunteer at gallery Thursday thru Saturday. Houston PetTalk Magazine

Serving Their

Community

MEET AXL & IZZY - THERAPY DOGS

MEET TIKI - THE AVIAN AMBASSADOR

BY: LISA CONLEY, CARTER-CONLEY FUNERAL HOME

xl, AKA, Grief Therapy Dood and Izzy, AKA, Grief Therapy Doodette, are certified therapy dogs and are Houston’s only funeral home grief therapy dogs. Axl and Izzy work at Carter-Conley Funeral Home every day and assist with all of the daily activities including welcoming guests, comforting the families during the planning/arrangement meeting, visiting with guests before and after services, and bringing much needed smiles to the family members and friends of the deceased. In addition to their full-time jobs with their parents at Carter-Conley Funeral Home, Axl and Izzy make regular volunteer therapy dog visits to nursing and senior living homes, medical facilities, participate in community events, and other places where happiness is

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needed. Coming from a patriotic family of military veterans, they are honored to have attended and assisted numerous veterans, law enforcement officers and first responders at events to honor our American heroes. Axl and Izzy, Grief Therapy Dood and Doodette have been a wonderful and unique form of support and an invaluable addition to our community and the lives of the families that we serve at Carter-Conley Funeral Home. Follow their adventures on Facebook and Instagram- Axl & Izzy, Certified Grief Therapy Dood & Doodette @grieftherapydood.

THANK YOU TO AXL AND IZZY FOR YOUR SERVICE TO HOUSTON'S COMMUNITY!

BY: TIKI MACAW'S LOVING DAD, ROBERT HAMMAN

he definition of patriotism cannot be defined by a dictionary, but rather by people. Or in this case, by pets! Tiki Macaw has spent the past many years doing special events all around Texas for adults and children with special needs or disabilities, as well as those who just want a 'friend' and look forward to seeing her at events like Big Brothers & Big Sisters. Tiki is a blue and gold macaw born in Blanchisseuse, Trinidad and now residing in The Woodlands, Texas. Tiki delights crowds wherever she goes bringing joy to faces and appreciation to her species. Some of the events where you'll find Tiki include Comicpalooza, HEB Thanksgiving Day Parade, CHUY'S Children Giving To Children Parade, Magical Winter Lights, and the Texas Renaissance Festival.

One of Tiki's favorite patriotic outings is the Special Show at Wings Over Houston for children and adults who are physically and mentally challenged. Tiki also looks at the world rather simply and wouldn't understand all the division we have today. If she could speak, based on all her past actions and the hundreds of people who have held her, I think she'd say that to her, Patriotism is to be proud of where you are from, and to love everyone around you no matter where they are from, no matter the color of their skin, nor even if they bark instead of fly in the air.

TIKI IS QUITE A SPECIAL ANIMAL AND WE THANK HER FOR MAKING SO MANY PEOPLE SMILE!

MEET DANCER AND FREEDOM: EQUINE THERAPISTS AT FIVE HORSES, LLC

eet Dancer, a miniature horse who resides along with Freedom, our cover boy, at Five Horses, LLC in Waller. Both of these beautiful equines, along with others at Five Horses, take part in a learning and healing technique known as equine assisted therapy (EAT). You may not have heard of equine assisted therapy but the practice has become more prevalent over the last decade as humans have begun to truly understand the many lessons that equines can offer humans if we are willing to listen. The therapy integrates activities and horses with a focus on experiential learning, educational goals, and emotional growth. As an educational tool, the participants learn specific skills that can improve anything from leadership skills to resiliency training for military warriors to company’s improving their sales goals. Interestingly, equine assisted therapy can also tap into human development needs including behavioral issues, attention deficit disorder, PTSD, substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and communication needs. This impressive list of benefits gives one a glimpse of just how amazing horses can be with the abilities to assist humans in so many areas of our lives! Horses are utilized in therapy because of similar organizational structures between horses and humans. Horses are able to give feedback that can be used for many metaphors in life and they have an exceptional ability to: » Read nonverbal communication » Live in the moment while reflecting the truth » Give instant feedback as they do not withhold truth In particular, some of the benefits of equine assisted therapy include developing awareness of authenticity, anxiety, confidence, mindfulness and relationships as well as developing leadership skills in assertiveness, boundaries, communication, creativity and integrity.

The sessions involve many different types of exercises, simulations, creative activities and other forms of experiential learning and are taught by licensed mental healthcare providers partnered with credentialed equine professionals. For example, EAT is particularly effective for teens that are resistant to "talk therapy". Through nonverbal communication and this type of direct, hands-on experience, they can address emotions or other issues that may be troubling them. At Five Horses, many types of therapy programs are available, from assisting autistic children to corporate development and leadership enhancement. Both Freedom and Dancer participate as equine “assistants” in a variety of sessions and they enjoy being helpful and offering behaviors that benefit the human in the session. To learn more about Five Horses, LLC or to schedule a session with Freedom, Dancer or the many other equine therapists, visit them online at fivehorses.com.

“I discovered that the horse is life itself, a metaphor but also an example of life’s mystery and unpredictability, of life’s generosity and beauty, a worthy object of repeated and ever changing contemplation.” - Jane Smiley, an American novelist and Pulitzer Prize winner

Houston PetTalk Magazine

America the Bea Exploring America's Treasures With Your Dog: Our National Parks

©Carol Highsmith

Acadia National Park

From wide expanses across the plains to seemingly skytouching mountain tops in the Rockies to the jagged shores of Maine, what a great adventure to explore the national treasures of our great country. Take a peak at our favorites - we selected a varied landscape but of course had to throw Texas parks in the mix!

ACADIA NATIONAL PARK - MAINE

Always a favorite in national surveys, Acadia National Park has much to offer pet owners. Be sure to check out Mount Desert Island where dogs are allowed on all carriage roads (45 miles of rustic roads). There are also stone roads and unique stone-faced bridges that are beautiful to explore. If your dog is a hiker, check out the Ocean Trail leading to Otter Cliffs. Enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and walks on Cadillac Mountain. For a shorter trip, try Jordan Pond Nature Trail for a mile-long loop also with gorgeous views. Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed on the swimming beaches, but there are plenty of trails, like the Great Head Trail, which lead to beaches.

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SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK VIRGINIA

Just 75 miles from Washington D.C. and full of wilderness with lush forests, Shenandoah National Park offers over 500 miles of trail, including 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail, showcasing forests of oaks and hemlocks. Only 20 trails are off-limits for pooches. With opportunities for backcountry camping, bird watching, and wildlife viewing, Shenandoah National Park you and your dog truly have the great outdoors to explore. View waterfalls at Whiteoak Canyon from the Boundary Trailhead or the Rose River Loop Trail for four miles of streams, cascades, and waterfalls. Before your ©David Haas trip, check out printable hiking maps which give detailed information about length of hikes, what to expect, and which ones do not allow pets.

GRAND CANYON - ARIZONA

Arguably the most famous park in America (and the 15th oldest), the Grand Canyon has much to offer guests with four-legged sidekicks. Some say that if mules go down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, why can’t you bring your dog? Technically you can, but there are some restrictions. Pets must be leashed at all times. Your leashed dog is allowed on trails above the rim, Mather Campground, Desert View Campground, Trailer Village, and throughout the developed areas. Pets are not permitted below the rim, in Grand Canyon park hotel rooms, or

on park buses. If you want to head to the bottom stick to the North Kaibab Trail. Pets are allowed on the bridle path that connects the lodge. The rockscapes are incredible and any hike in the park shows off the extreme terrain. There are plenty of rest stops along the way to cool down. If you need to be dog-less for some reason, there is a kennel at the South Rim that is open from 7:30am to 5pm.

Photos ©Depositphotos

ne of the greatest blessings we have in America is our beautiful landscapes that are not only majestic but also quite diverse. Many of these beautiful gifts of nature are set aside as national parks and what better way to explore our country than with your four-footed hiker as a sidekick.

autiful BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK - TEXAS

There may be no better description of Big Bend National Park than their very own comments: "There is a place in Far West Texas where night skies are dark as coal and rivers carve temple-like canyons in ancient limestone. ©Arina Habich Here, at the end of the road, hundreds of bird Great Sand Dunes National Park species take refuge in a solitary mountain range surrounded by weather-beaten desert. Tenaa rich history, including the Spanish shipwrecks of 1554. There are cious cactus bloom in sublime southwestern tons of things to do and see including kayaking, swimming, watching sun, and diversity of species is the best in the country. This magical hatchling sea turtles, watching the beautiful wildlife above head and place is Big Bend." Wow…that narrative makes me want to load on ground, or even camp. Pets are welcome almost everywhere in the park as long as they are on a leash at all times. Leashed pets are permitted in all camping areas and on over 60 miles of beach in the park, including all areas where you can drive on the beach. Pets are NOT allowed in any buildings.

GREAT SAND DUNES NATIONAL PARK COLORADO

Big Bend National Park up the car and dogs and take off! There are 3 distinct regions to explore including waterways, mountain and desert with more than 112 miles of paved roads in the park and over 150 miles of unpaved roads. Dogs are allowed wherever your car can go; they are not allowed on trails, on the river, off the roads and must be on a 6 ft leash or shorter at all times.

PADRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE TEXAS

Padre Island National Seashore separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Laguna Madre, one of a few hypersaline lagoons in the world. The park protects 70 miles of coastline, dunes, prairies, and wind tidal flats teeming with life. It is a safe nesting ground for the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle and a haven for over 380 bird species. It also has

Not your "typical" park but one that offers 100% access to your pup, Great Sand Dunes National Park permits dogs in the main park as well as the national preserve. With such an unusual combination of landscapes you can try a terrace walk or nature walk. Medano Creek is a good place to start where surges occur at this creek causing mounds of sand to collapse. You may have a dirty, sandy dog but they are welcome to run, play, and dig. The dunes of course are the major attraction and not to be missed! The High Dune is popular and visible from the Visitor Center. Wildlife are abundant including mule deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and coyotes in the warmer months, while elk roam in the fall and winter. Mosca Pass Trail is a great trail to spot birds and wildflowers. Note of caution: remember, the dunes can get hot in the summer months, so keep paws protected.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

We may wonder why our park system requires our pets to be leashed given that the open spaces are SO tempting for a good romp and sniffing expedition. But, the government reminds us of the following: "A national park is a refuge for the animals and plants living in it. Even if your pet does not chase deer, birds, or ground critters, it still presents the image and scent of a historical predator. The result is stress on the native wildlife. In addition, predators such as owls, coyotes, mountain lions, and javelinas can and do kill pets. Even large dogs cannot defend themselves against predators. Contagious diseases can also be transmitted between your dog and native coyotes and other wild animals."

Houston PetTalk Magazine Padre Beach

e m i T n I k c A Look Ba

s t e P l a i t Presiden Theodore Roosevelt's pet one-legged rooster; the Hoovers also kept a bear, a badger, a pig and a hyena as well as numerous ordinary pets. (LOC)

White House possum adopted by President Hoover; (LOC: National Photo Company Collection)

Teddy Roosevelt Jr. with his bird "Eli Yale"; (LOC: Johnston Collection)

President Lincoln's horse, "Old Robin", 1865; (LOC: Gladstone Collection)

(LOC, National Photo Com. Collection)

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Photos ©Library of Congress

President Hoover with his beloved dog, "KIng Tut";

President Taft’s cow, “Pauline Wayne” in front of the Navy Bldg. She grazed the White House lawn from 1910-1913. (LOC)

KEEP PETS SAFE DURING FIREWORKS

s humans, we love the excitement and display of fireworks but our pets are not quite as enamored with the sounds, sights and smells from the pyrotechnic displays! Be mindful of your pet's fears, reactions or discomfort by taking these steps: 1. Create a safe space: Gather your petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite toys and treats and put your pet in a bedroom, preferably crated if your pet is used to crating, and give them this space to get away from the noise. Drown out the noise by playing calming music. 2. Diffuse a calming essential oil of high quality, like Frankincense, which is safe for dogs or cats. When diffusing an oil, check with your vet first and also don't dif-

fuse in a room the pet cannot escape if the smell becomes too strong. 3. Consult your veterinarian about the use of CBD oil for calming. It has been shown to work for some pets. 4. If you are not participating in 4th of July celebrations, your pet would appreciate some snuggle time! 5. Outerwear, such as the Thundershirt, wraps pets snuggly and offers comfort. 6. Use counter-conditioning by introducing noises to your pet and rewarding them when they stay calm. 7. Make sure all doors and windows are shut. Pets that are scared are likely to run out of an open space. Microchip your pet as a precaution in case they get out the door.

Safe together at home...

Inside the Boundary

We are here to help you take care of your pets and to keep them safe and healthy.

Call Now to Schedule a Free Consultation 800-DOG-6000 | InvisibleFence.com @InvisiblefenceofTX

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Made In The U.S.A. RED HOT RIDE

Doesn't your pup deserve the best....a smooth ride in a hot Corvette? Visit DeMontrond Chevrolet to purchase the new Corvette Convertible. The only Houston area Chevrolet store with Warranty Forever at no additional cost to you! DeMontrondChevy.com

FIND IT!

Snuffle Mat is the perfect enrichment activity for slow feeding, mental stimulation or separation anxiety by hiding food for your pup to "snuffle out". Plus, keep a treat pouch on hand for training on-the-go! Get yours at Believe in Dog Training, 1029 W. 26th St. 77008.

DOG BLESS AMERICA

Don't forget as the paw parent, you can sport a great patriotic style as well! Find this t-shirt at PurrsnBarkstx.com or visit the boutique and bakery at 7710 Cherry Park Dr Suite Q, 77095.

ALL AMERICAN SUMMER

Snaz up your pet's appearance at the next summer "pawty" with this locally made bandana by FurreverDoggies.com. More styles and collars available too!

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BIG BITE 'O TEXAS

Treat the 'lil Texan in your life to an all-natural, locally baked cookie. Shop for healthy bakery treats at PurrsnBarkstx.com or visit Urban Dog Barkery inside Purrs n Barks store located at 7710 Cherry Park Dr Suite Q, Houston 77095.

PAWS UP FOR THE RED, WHITE, AND BLUE

Need we say more? Play on pups, play on! Get your pawtriot plush toy at Carter's Pet Market, 9333 Katy Frwy, Echo Lane Shopping Center.

PATRIOTIC PUP

Sport your love of the red, white and blue with this leash, handmade in Spring, Texas by Lone Wolf Pet Products and available at Carter's Pet Market. Available in 4 or 6 ft. length; choose from slip, snap or Martingale styles. Get yours at 9333 Katy Frwy, CartersPetMarket.com.

AMERICAN EAGLE

Support your country and your community when you purchase this sterling silver, handmade eagle pendant from Esquivel and Fees in Rice Village, efsterling.com. Available in belt buckle, cufflinks, bracelet and more.

WOOF GANG BAKERY SALUTES THE USA

From flags to stars and stripes, Woof Gang Bakery offers healthy baked treats that are the perfect show of patriotism. Why not buy some for all the pooches on your block? They'll love it! Purchase at any one of 9 Houston locations. WoofGangBakery.com

STAR SPANGLED COLLAR MY WORLD

For the chic canine, these fabric collars are available in a variety of patterns to fit your pup's style. From patriotic to preppy, there's plenty of choices for any occasion. Available at Woof Gang Bakery's 9 Houston locations, WoofGangBakery.com.

Not only are these pawesome bow ties fitting for the best of parties, they are made right here in H-Town! Available in 8 sizes and fabrics, they are washable and have an elastic band for collar attachment. Check out the many options at TheBowfessional.com.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

LIFESTYLE

SUMMER FUN IN GALVESTON

Your Guide to Local Travel

othing shouts SUMMER more than heading to the beach! Thankfully for Houstonians, Galveston Island beaches beckon with plenty of fun in the sun. In less than an hour’s drive, you can be sitting on the beach, beverage in hand, relaxing in fresh air while adhering to social distancing protocols because there is plenty of beach space for everyone. And, guess who wants to join the fun? Yep, your pup! A day away from the big city of Houston with your pooch in tow is a great way to share some time with your furry friend and forget the stresses of daily life. Galveston Island has some great opportunities for pets and their parents to enjoy the sun and even get some exercise too. Check out these ideas and tips from Sand 'N Sea Properties, Galveston Island’s premier vacation rental company. 1. Stay Safe: Safety is number one for

byline Sponsored by Sand N Sea Properties sandnsea.com

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both you and your dog. Adhere to social distancing rules, apply generous amounts of sunscreen (including your pet if they are light skinned), remember that the sand and pavement can be very hot on your dog’s paws, bring plenty of fresh water for you both to stay hydrated, and utilize a swim vest if you are boating or kayaking. It’s also a great idea to have your pet microchipped. In the event your dog gets away from you, the likelihood of them being safely returned to you if they are microchipped is significantly greater. 2. Enjoy Some Chow Together: Check out dog-friendly Galveston Island Brewing (try the Tiki Wheat brew…very refreshing!) where you can enjoy craft beers with lots of greenspace for your dog and the ability to social distance. Snack on a tasty Muffaletta while enjoying one of the 11 beers on tap brewed on site. They are located at 8423 Steward Rd, galvestonislandbrewing.com. 3. Take A Ride: BayWatch Dolphin Tours offers a free ride to dogs on their dolphin sighting cruises. The ticket booth is located directly in front of Harbor House hotel at 21st Street & Harborside. They

are open daily, offering rides on the hour. 4. Check Out Wildlife: If sitting on the sand is not your thing, try visiting Galveston Island State Park. Located on the west end of the island, this nearly 2,000-acre park spans the entire width of the island, including both beach and salt marsh frontage. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department runs Galveston Island State Park is located at 14901 FM 3005. This is a great place to see wildlife, including birds and ducks, raccoons, marsh rabbits, and even the occasional armadillo. 5. Stroll The Strand: The world-famous, historic Strand needs no introduction. Take your leashed pup along the walkways that house many boutiques, restaurants, beautiful architecture, street entertainment and more. 6. Take A Photo & Enter Our Fall Contest: Show us how much fun your pup is having at the beach by snapping a pic to enter in our upcoming PetTalk Beach Bum Photo Contest sponsored by Sand ’N Sea Properties. The contest is typically held in July but due to Covid-19, we decided to push it back a few months to allow more time to get your best shot at the beach. Photos must be on a Galveston Island Beach, pets only in the photo. Visit facebook.com/houstonpettalk for announcements on the contest dates or join our newsletter (sign up on houstonpettlak. com) so you’ll be sure not to miss this super-popular, annual contest. With such a gem just 50 miles away, there’s no reason to miss out on the joy the beach brings and the opportunity to adhere to social distancing in big wide open spaces full of fresh sea air. Go have a ball…and throw one for your pup too!

Winston: 2019 winner of the Beach Bum Photo Contest.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

Esquivel & Fees

www.efsterling.com

713•521•1544 Houston PetTalk Magazine

HEALTH

WORKING DOGS

Health & Performance Is Critical

or thousands of years, dogs and humans have partnered together for various things such as hunting, food gathering, guarding family and property, moving and gathering livestock, patrolling and police work, military work, detecting drugs and explosives, and searching for lost humans. We have all seen the police dogs, called K-9s, around town, and we often see working dogs at airports, schools and some stores. There are K-9s who sniff out drugs and bombs, apprehend suspected criminals, are trained to find missing people, search crime scenes for evidence, and provide security and protection in general. Aside from law enforcement agencies, several other agencies use working dogs including Customs and Border Patrol, TSA, US Secret Service, and the Department of Defense. Working dogs are dogs defined as dogs who provide a service to people, and

byline Shana D Richardson, PhD Vergi 24/7 Animal Emergency Hospital

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as compared to their pet counterparts, these dogs have higher physical exertion demands, unique mental and emotional demands, an increased risk for injury, and greater exposure to hazardous substances and environmentsâ&#x20AC;Śon a daily basis. The health and performance of working dogs is critical to the security of national and local communities. Maintaining their health and full function can mean life or death to a handler/K-9 officer. It is therefore imperative that veterinarians treating working dogs take into account the specific activities and tasks that these dogs perform. Some working dogs require special handling when they are examined. Traits that make these dogs perfect for their job are their intense drive and focus, strength and intelligence. Working breeds are generally always on duty and veterinarians

who treat them are aware of this, which leads to the successful handling of the dog in their care. Additionally, veterinarians need to know and recognize specific injuries and medical conditions that are prone to working dogs. The injuries are often over-use injuries from repetitive motion, soft tissue injuries and injuries resulting from breed-specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia in German Shepherds. Many of these breeds are also susceptible to GDV (often known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;bloatâ&#x20AC;?), some cancers, and heart conditions, for example. Of course, their line of work can also include injuries resulting from the nature of their work: apprehending suspects, gunshots, stabbings, car wrecks, and explosions. Illnesses resulting from exposure to chemicals and drugs occur as well. Working dog breeds usually include German and Belgian Shepherds (Belgian Shepherds are also knows as Malinois),

Bloodhounds, Beagles (they have one of the best noses in the business and are known as narcotics-sniffing dogs who can be found in airports and border zones), Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, American Pit Bull Terriers (now often being adopted from shelters and trained for work as officers!) and Labrador Retrievers, to name a few. Awareness of the nature of the breed and the nature of the dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s job is the key to successfully performing the necessary regular exams of these working dogs and, should they become injured or ill, this awareness will lend to the successful treatment and return to work for these dogs as soon as safely possible. There will come a time when the K-9 officer will retire. While the timing of this is generally left up to the department for which the dog works, the veterinarian treating a retired working dog needs to remain cognizant of the work they did for many years. The retired officer may have suffered physical injuries on duty that can later lead to arthritis, for example. These incredible dogs give their all to protect us, and their handler, on a daily basis and veterinarians across the country play a very important roll in keeping working dogs well and on the job. Next time you see a K-9 officer with his or her dog, thank them for their service. But remember, never approach a K-9 or try to pet them. They are not a pet when they are on duty.

HEALTH

quamation, also known as water based cremation or alkaline hydrolysis, is the process of combining about 95% warm water and 5% sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide with the deceased. â&#x20AC;&#x2039;This process is essentially an accelerated version of what takes place during natural decomposition. The combination of gentle water flow, temperature, and the alkalinity listed above is used to accelerate the process over 20-24 hours. At the end of the aquamation, the body has been returned to its natural form. Similar to flame based cremation, only the mineral remains of the skeleton and any inorganic material such as metal, fabric fragments, etc are left. These remains are then dried over several days in a dehumidifying room. The mineral remains are then processed into a fine white ash powder. This ash can be scat-

because the water can be used as a fertilizer. The commercial use for pets was not adopted until the early 2000s. Since then it has rapidly been growing in demand for pets and human use. It is currently legal in about 18 states for humans and all 50 states for animals. Many people are turning to aquamation as an alternative to burial not only due to costs, but also a more gentle procedure compared to embalming/burial or flame based cremation. Senior Paws has been offering pet aquamation since 2017 in the greater Houston area. We have helped thousands of families through this gentle process. We have been working hard on our new location which is currently equipped with 2 steel vessels for aquamation and the capability for several more in the

PET AQUAMATION An Alternative To Cremation

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tered, placed in an urn, or used for memorial items such as jewelry, stepping stones or art. Many seek this option because it has zero carbon emissions and leaves the family with 20% more cremains than traditional flame-based cremation and ash that aids in plant growth. This process is felt to be a greener, more natural, and an overall clean process for the Earth. This process is very gentle, because it does not affect inorganic material. We have found socks, intact mustard packets (you can still read the label), balls, and other items our beloved animals have eaten throughout their lives along with any metal material they may have had implanted in a previous surgery. Aquamation is not a new process. It was patented in the United States in 1888. Initially, the process was used in laboratories and on farms for deceased animals,

Julia Spade, DVM, cVMA, CHPV seniorpaws.vet

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future. Our serenity center offers a chapel for family services and witness aquamation. We also offer memorial items such as clay paw prints, paw print paintings, garden stepping stones, and ink paw and nose prints. We offer private aquamation or communal aquamation with ashes scattered. Please let us know if you have any questions regarding this process or want more information mailed to you. Contact us at seniorpaws.vet.

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HEALTH

FELINE FEARS & ANXIETIES

Be Observant and Offer Solutions

he incredible personalities of our pets can be the biggest joy in our fulfillment of owning and loving them. A common faux “paw”, cats are often left to find their own happiness and contentment in an assumed preference for “social distancing”. Cats, like humans, need companionship and emotional balance in their lives and can experience anxieties and fears, especially if their bond is underestimated or their needs are misunderstood. Observe your cat’s habits, responses to noise, their perk when a bug dances on the window, or their personality when it is time for feeding. Observing can sharpen your connection to your feline and help you identify happy associations. Cats can

byline Dr Jennifer Hennessey animalERnwh.com

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express negative emotions from frustration, loneliness and even anxiousness in subtle or confusing ways. Your Felix may prefer the company of you in the room rather than a lap snuggle for joy like your Fido, and this positive connection can be less obvious to the family. Anxiety and stress from house-

hold changes as well as from dysfunctional bonds with their humans can lead to nervous behavior, aggression, or even displays such as urination and defecation outside of the proper “potty” box; although a possible medical issue, inappropriate eliminations are also known to be affiliated with the expression of stress. Achieving a well-balanced, happy kitty can be challenging. Therapy for deterring anxiety in cats can include supplying occupational items when they are left home alone such as offering toys and stimuli including catnip-infused mice, providing a seat near the window for bird watching and sun-bathing, and enriching their environment with instinctually fun elements such as scratching posts. Calming “aroma therapy” can be added around the home such as with pheromone diffusers, like Feliway. Prepping areas where they hide with convenient access to food and water as well as a litter box can be considerate and comforting, rather than expecting your feline to cross a scary social event or noisy area of the home for their necessities. Medications are available to assist in easing feline worries if needed, following a consultation with your veterinarian, and now anxiety targeting prescription diets are also available. Cats enjoy games and fun as well as companionship which we can all relate to, though being understood is step number one in reducing their stress and anxiety. Achieving clearer communication, designating time for games and providing opportunities for relaxation are great ways to start ensuring your fantastic felines are fearless. Find more information on emotional health and stress-free interactions at wonderful sites such as Fear Free (fearfreehappyhomes.com) and enjoy spoiling your furry friends with some new toys and enrichment items from your favorite local pet supply store.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR ANIMALS:

Join PetTalk as we host a series of Essential Oils For Animals Classes around the Houston area at pet care facilities. Learn how to use essential oils for your pets and yourself safely. To sign up, visit facebook.com/houstonpettalk and view our Events.

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RESPONSIBLE PET ADOPTION

How to Choose a Reputable Rescue

hen it comes to adopting a furry friend, you have so many options to choose from in Houston. There are over 100 rescue groups all across town. Animal rescues are the backbone of animal welfare. They help alleviate the heavy burden of county and city animal shelters. If you decide to adopt from a rescue group, how do you know if they are reputable? With so many options, it can be tricky to navigate.

adopt from a respected group, you will avoid potentially enabling groups that do not care for their animals like hoarders or puppy-mill types of situations. Just like all organizations, there are vast differences in the way one rescue group operates to another.

A reputable rescue organization will help you find the perfect match for your family. These groups not only provide excellent care for pets in their rescue, but they also make efforts to ensure the right pet goes to the right family. By choosing to

Reputable rescues often have high expectations and a vetting process for potential new homes for adoptable pets. Most quality rescues will have most of the following things in place, but we encourage you to also make your own list of criteria.

WHY CHOOSING A REPUTABLE RESCUE IS IMPORTANT

byline Steffani Martin saveadane.org

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THINGS TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING A RESCUE TO ADOPT FROM

Require an adoption application for all adoptions. Complete a home visit with potential adopters. Check the veterinary care history of current pets of potential adopters to ensure the adopted pet will also receive proper care. Provide basic veterinary care for animals brought into rescue like vaccines, a heartworm test, and a checkup. Spay or neuter all animals. Share medical history with potential adopters and provide records upon adoption. Discuss breed-related important topics when necessary. For example, a new Great Dane owner needs to know about proper feeding, signs of bloat, and joint health supplements. Allow for an introduction to current pets to ensure the new pet will fit in. Some may also allow time for the new pet to get accustomed to the home before finalizing adoption. This is called “foster to adopt” and lasts around two weeks. Ask for a reasonable rehoming fee. The fee may fluctuate depending on the age of the pet and breed. For example, giant breeds like Great Danes have more expenses than small breeds of dogs. Most quality rescues have a charitable 501(c)(3) status with solid business practices in place and show good stewardship of donations. » Require an adoption contract. These contracts will have key items in place so all parties understand expectations. Finally, use your best judgment. You want a rescue that will spend time answering your questions and concerns. When choosing a rescue, choose one that has high, yet reasonable, expectations for potential adopters and provides excellent care for pets in their program.

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RETURNING TO WORK AND SCHOOL Help Your Dog Cope

ore family time at home can be a joy for humans and pups alike: it means more attention and activities throughout the day with our four-legged friends. Unfortunately, negative behaviors can quickly surface if we humans abruptly leave our dogs alone or crated more often as we return to our normal routines. A little preparation, however, can avoid or mitigate potential issues and keep the good vibes going when your schedule shifts. Dogs are creatures of habit – if their humans are around the house more regularly, they become conditioned to expect our presence. When kids return to school and adults return to work, pups do not understand why they are being left

byline Connie Archer, Bark Busters Home Dog Training, barkbusters.com

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alone more often. The ensuing confusion may manifest itself in Separation Anxiety, a complex behavioral issue. Symptoms of separation anxiety can include excessive howling and barking, inappropriate toileting, destructive behavior, excessive panting, pacing and drooling, or overexcitement when family members return home. How can we avoid these problems? You don’t need to be away from home to reacclimate your dog to alone time. You can practice separation while still around the house today! This simple, effective method teaches pups to be comfortable being left alone. Introducing the following exercises at least a week before schedules shift (more time is always better!) can quickly return dogs to normal. Set specific pet and play times each day. If you are working from home, “leave” for work (isolate yourself from your dog) and only interact with your dog during “breaks.” Do not allow your dog to follow you through

the house. Teach your dog to be comfortable some distance away from you or in their own space – perhaps in another room, or in their crate for short periods of time throughout the day, even when you don’t need them to be. Practice leaving the house – casually gather your things and exit, then come back in without making a big fuss. Start with short periods of time apart, then gradually work up to your dog being alone for roughly the same amount of time you will be gone when things return to normal. Webcams or baby monitors can be helpful tools to observe your dog’s behavior while separated. Avoid boredom while you’re gone by scattering food (could be their kibble) throughout the house for them to scavenge. Try a dog treat dispenser that dispenses treats at random times throughout the day. Provide good quality, virtually indestructible toys for them to enjoy, perhaps ones that hold treats. Rotate the toys every few days to hold your dog’s interest with something new and fun. Last, make sure you monitor your dog initially when playing with any new toy. If your dog is overly excited when you return home, family members should avoid going directly to the dog’s area. Wait until your dog settles down and is not seeking attention before greeting him. Then give him soft praise and gentle petting to keep him calm. If you practice these exercises, you can help to ensure that your pup is comfortable, well-loved, and not glued to your hip.

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PETTALK’S DIGITAL PAWPRINT

Content In Print, Digital and Video

or the past 20 years, PetTalk has been bringing the Houston pet community lots of valuable content including articles on pet care, information about our vibrant rescue community and pet businesses, news, events, wildlife conservation, and even contests and social media for posting great photos. Offering a platform to inform, share, and make people smile is the mission of our print publication, which reaches thousands of Houstonians monthly through distribution in over 1100 locations around the Greater Houston area. As the digital and social media world expanded, so did we! Did you know that PetTalk offers content on many platforms

byline Michelle Mantor

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our Houston Zoo visits. As we grow, we hope to add more videos in partnership with our sponsors to bring you even more valuable content from Houston’s premier providers of training, boarding, healthcare, grooming, adopting and more. If you haven’t already found us on the web, social media or signed up for our newsletter, we encourage you to check us out so we can check in with you regularly about All Things Pet in Houston! Watch for our videos that will be released regularly starting with our Cover Photoshoot for the amazing July cover of FREEDOM the rescue horse, followed by our photoshoot at the zoo with Bald Eagle, “Sally” and our War Memorial feature story. Give us a shout on Facebook or email us at info@houstonpettalk.com with your comments and feedback. Tell us what you want to see and hear! We love getting to know our readers and we look forward to bringing you PetTalk in many different formats for years to come!

Contests, June Issue, And SHARING The PetTalk LOVE! Spread The LOVE.... Share PetTalk With A Friend We are here for you! As part of our pack, we hope you enjoy both our publication (print and digital) as well as our newsletter and social media channels. As part of the Houston Pet Community, we want to help support our local businesses and grow our community together by asking you to SHARE with Your Friends. You can help us by using the SHARE button at the bottom of this newsletter to invite others to sign up, or by sharing the link to our website and Digital Issue as well as sharing our social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube). As we increase our pack, we can provide you with more valuable content, support local businesses that care for our pets, inform you of upcoming events, provide fun tips and even show off behind the scenes

including HoustonPetTalk.com, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter as well as our online business directory and event calendar, PetTalkGoFetch.com? And, did you know that we ALSO have a bi-monthly newsletter that offers valuable information on event schedules, coupon offers from our sponsors, contest announcements, alerts when the latest issue is released and available online, casting calls for photoshoots and even EXCLUSIVE behind the scenes photos and video. To sign up, just visit HoustonPetTalk.com and click the newsletter sign-up link. You’ll only receive two a month and your information is kept totally private! In making sure that our PetTalk Pack gets information in as many places and forms as possible, we're also launching our YouTube Channel with behind the scenes footage of our many fun and sometimes crazy photoshoots, including

footage of our fun photoshoots!

Enter Your Pet To Win!: Paws Up for Patriotism Photo Contest As America pulls together and stands strong in a time of difficulty, the true grit of our nation shines through. We are blessed to be Americans and we want to celebrate the Red, White & Blue showcasing pets and patriotism! Take a photo of your dog, cat, horse, ferret or any other furry friend in their best American-Inspired ensemble and enter the Pets & Patriotism Photo Contest sponsored by our friends at VERGI 24/7. Upload photos from June 1 to June 10, public voting will take place from June 11-

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NEW FURRY FAMILY MEMBERS AWAIT YOU AT HOUSTON HUMANE SOCIETY

dding some extra fur or feathers to your home is as easy as visiting Houston Humane Society, who are now re-opened 7 days per week with no appointment required. Visit them online for details at houstonhumane.org. Check out these four awesome adoptables…and there are many more just as adorable at the shelter!

NAME: Snoopy DESCRIPTION: Beagle Mix ADOPTION FEE: $66.50 Snoopy is a 5 year old, fun loving Beagle mix (probably with some hound) who has been at our shelter for almost 6 months (one of our longest stays)! He was surrendered by his owner because they did not have time for him, but we're committed to finding him a home. He walks well on leash, loves belly rubs and jumping in your lap, and is housetrained! He likes other dogs and older children and would do well in a home where he'll get walks to exercise his hound senses!

NAME: Rainbow DESCRIPTION: Green Cheeked Parakeet ADOPTION FEE: $300 Rainbow came to the Houston Humane Society after being rescued from a hoarding case in May 2020. Rainbow was found in a home with 20 other animals including bottle baby kittens living in deplorable conditions. Rainbow has adjusted very well to our staff and volunteers and is now ready to find his forever home.

NAME: Gumby DESCRIPTION: Indian Ringneck Parrot ADOPTION FEE: $500 Gumby is a lovely fellow who enjoys music. He loves to be around people and other animals. Gumby came to the Houston Humane Society in February after being rescued from a home with over 200 animals living inside. Gumby, like many of the animals, was very sick and in desperate need of saving. Gumby has persevered and has been given a second chance at life, ready to take on his new life as someone's forever loving companion.

NAME: Leia DESCRIPTION: Domestic Short Haired ADOPTION FEE: $50 Leia is a 2-year-old entertainer. She is guaranteed to give you a proper greeting and show. You can find her always looking out at the entrance of the Cat Room, waiting for someone to finally choose her as their forever friend. Leia is such a sweetie, who cannot get enough love, EVER! Interested in having someone's full and unconditional love? Choose Leia!

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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 Bald Eagle conservation. Look for other upcoming conservation stories so that you too can help save a species.

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By: Taylor Rhoades Houston Zoo

Photo credit, Stephanie Adams/Houston Zoo

Plastic Free July Protects Bald Eagles in the Wild

ith its fierce nature and proud independence, the bald eagle embodies both strength and freedom, which is no doubt why the Founding Fathers chose this animal as

the symbol for the United States of America. When bald eagles began disappearing from the wild several decades ago, love and pride for the species inspired Americans to take action to save this raptor from extinction. While bald eagles are once again flourishing across the nation, our work to protect these birds in the wild isn’t finished just yet. Bald eagles, like so many other species, are threatened by single-use plastic. Plastic items like bags, bottles, and straws are typically used once, and if not contained properly, end up in our streets, landfills, and waterways. Animals ranging from marine wildlife

like sea turtles to birds like bald eagles may mistake a plastic item for food or nesting material, ingesting it or becoming entangled in it, causing them to get sick or injured. Thankfully, July isn’t just for celebrating Independence Day, it is also when people around the globe partake in Plastic Free July to save wildlife like bald eagles! In 2016 Houston Zoo staff and volunteers participated in the Plastic Free July Challenge for the first time. Continued participation over the past four years has resulted in several operational changes; some of which you may have noticed on recent trips to the Zoo, like our elimination of single-use plastic bags, bottles, and straws. By eliminating these items we’ve seen a huge reduction in our plastic use, saving 300,000 plastic bottles, 80,000 plastic bags, and 23,000 plastic straws annually to save wildlife. With the recent emergence of COVID-19, the Zoo has found

creative solutions for some unavoidable and hard-to-recycle items. Thanks to our partners at Terracycle, we can now recycle masks and gloves worn by staff ensuring that our use of PPE is not posing a threat to the wildlife we work to protect. Our Marketing team also went to work sewing over 1,000 reusable cloth masks for staff, helping to further

reduce our need for single-use alternatives. Last year, some of the Houston Zoo’s Board members brought plastic reduction activities to their businesses and office buildings, helping to save animals in the wild. Some eliminated single-use plastic bottles, utensils or straws, and one challenged her office to reduce their single-use plastic use

for Plastic Free July. They focus on bringing in reusable water bottles and containers for lunches. Board member Molly Voorhees’ company, Beck’s Prime, is part of the Zoo’s single-use plastic straw free campaign, which in partnership with other local bars and restaurants has led to the elimination of over 862,200 plastic straws from Houston establishments

This year, we invite each of you to participate in the Plastic Free July Challenge with us! Whether you’re just starting your journey, or you’re a plastics reduction pro, remember, single-use plastic reduction is a process. Each action you take, whether its eliminating one item or twenty, helps to protect animals like the majestic bald eagle in the wild.

each year. To learn more about the campaign go to: houstonzoo. org/strawless. This year, we invite each of you to participate in the Plastic Free July Challenge with us! Whether you’re just starting your journey, or you’re a plastics reduction pro, remember, singleuse plastic reduction is a process. Each action you take, whether its eliminating one item or twenty, helps to protect animals like the majestic bald eagle in the wild.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

Wild about Animals By: Michelle Mantor Photos: PhotographyByPrudence.com

Houston Zoo’s Bald Eagle “Sally Ride”

he iconic bald eagle is the perfect wild animal to feature in our patriotic issue of PetTalk. As the national emblem of the United States, this majestic bird proudly flies our beautiful skies in record numbers after coming back from near extinction in the early 1960’s. When I was growing up, the bald eagle numbers had dwindled to a mere 47 nesting pairs, but through protection from the government, the species rebounded and I can remember vividly the first time I saw one in the wild. I was on a ferry trip from Seattle to Vancouver and one flew overhead. It was breathtaking to finally see this bird that I had only experienced as a symbol depicted on everything from dollar bills to the US Capitol, gliding effortlessly in the sky above my head. The bald eagle is the second largest bird of prey in North America (the Californian condor is larger) and can fly 20-40 mph and dive at speeds over 100 mph. Impressive! Have you ever wondered why they are called bald eagles? They are obviously not bald, but rather, they have a gorgeous head of beautiful white feathers for which they garner the description of “bald” because it stands out so starkly against the remainder of their feathers. Yes, they are beautiful but did you also know they are loyal? Once paired, bald eagles remain together until one dies. That is so honorable - just like a great American patriot!

Editor Michelle Mantor admires the beauty of Sally Ride in her exhibit at the Houston Zoo.

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MEET SALLY RIDE

Bald eagles are not your typical zoo animal but Houston is privileged to have Sally Ride make her home right here in H-Town. Sally was injured as a juvenile in the wild and found by a game warden in Sallisaw, OK. After rehab at the Tulsa Zoo, it was determined her injury was too extensive for her to be released back to the wild because she was unable to fly. Fortunately, Sally, who is now 12, found a great home with a gigantic nest at the Houston Zoo where she can proudly represent the bald eagle species as one of beauty, majesty and strength. Visiting Sally at the zoo is so amazing because her exhibit is open (since she can’t fly) and viewers can see her up close to witness her detailed beauty. She was quite cooperative for our photoshoot, posing in just the right direction. She’s not only beautiful, she is smart enough to know her best side for the camera!