Houston PetTalk March 2024

Get Enlightened

Great oral care for your furry friend isn’t easy. But it can be.

Your pet’s teeth and gums should be checked annually by your primary care veterinarian for early signs of a problem. But when your pet needs advanced care, count on Veterinary Dentistry Specialists® to help them get their smile back.

VDS® is the only network of stand-alone dentistry practices in the nation dedicated to advanced care* where a boardcertified veterinary dentist and a board-certified veterinary anesthesiologist are on staff full time to ensure the safest and most comfortable experience... and the best possible outcome.

We put your pet’s comfort and safety at the forefront of everything we do. And here at our practice in Katy, you’ll find a Texas-style warm and welcoming environment. Call us to learn more.

Houston Area VCA Animal Hospitals

Cypress

Cypress

VCA Telge Road Animal Hospital 11430 Telge Road

Kingwood

Lake Jackson

Cypress, TX 77429 281-955-9797

VCA Telge Road Animal Hospital 11430 Telge Road Cypress, TX 77429 281-955-9797

VCA Kingwood Animal Hospital 2526 Green Oak Drive Kingwood, TX 77339 281-358-3146

VCA Lake Jackson Animal Hospital 210 That Way Lake Jackson, TX 77566 979-297-3044

vcatelgeroad.com

vcatelgeroad.com

vcakingwood.com

vcalakejackson.com

Houston

Houston

Lake Jackson

Pasadena

VCA Ashford Animal Hospital 12633 Whittington Houston, TX 77077 281-497-3917

VCA Ashford Animal Hospital 12633 Whittington Houston, TX 77077 281-497-3917

vcaashford.com

vcaashford.com

VCA Lake Jackson Animal Hospital 210 That Way

Lake Jackson, TX 77566 979-297-3044

VCA Animal Medical Center of Pasadena 5018A Fairmont Parkway Pasadena, TX 77505 281-487-8233

vcalakejackson.com

vcapasadena.com

Pearland

Pasadena

VCA Countryside Animal Hospital 2211 FM 1960 East Houston, TX 77073 281-443-7297

VCA Countryside Animal Hospital 2211 FM 1960 East Houston, TX 77073 281-443-7297

vcacountryside.com

vcacountryside.com

VCA Jones Road Animal Hospital 9570 Jones Road Houston, TX 77065

281-890-9525

VCA Jones Road Animal Hospital 9570 Jones Road Houston, TX 77065 281-890-9525

vcajonesroad.com

vcajonesroad.com

VCA Prestonwood Animal Hospital 13720 Schroeder Rd. Houston, TX 77070

VCA Prestonwood Animal Hospital 13720 Schroeder Rd. Houston, TX 77070 281-890-1960

281-890-1960

vcaprestonwood.com

vcaprestonwood.com

VCA Spring Branch Animal Hospital 10109 Long Point Road Houston, TX 77043 713-461-1121

VCA Spring Branch Animal Hospital 10109 Long Point Road Houston, TX 77043 713-461-1121

vcaspringbranch.com

vcaspringbranch.com

Katy

Katy

VCA Kelliwood Animal Hospital 960 S. Fry Road Katy, TX 77450 281-492-2780

VCA Kelliwood Animal Hospital 960 S. Fry Road Katy, TX 77450

281-492-2780

vcakelliwood.com

vcakelliwood.com

Kingwood

VCA Kingwood Animal Hospital 2526 Green Oak Drive Kingwood, TX 77339

281-358-3146

vcakingwood.com

1811 Spring Cypress Spring, TX 77388 281-353-5167

2627 Cordes Dr. Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-980-3737

vcaspring.com

vcalexingtonblvd.com

Stafford

VCA Westside Animal Clinic 9223 W. Broadway St., Ste. 107 Pearland, TX 77584

VCA Animal Medical Center of Pasadena 5018A Fairmont Parkway Pasadena, TX 77505 281-487-8233

281-997-1044

vcawestsidevet.com

vcapasadena.com

Pearland

VCA Westside Animal Clinic 9223 W. Broadway St., Ste. 107 Pearland, TX 77584

VCA Westside Animal Hospital 6034 Broadway Street Pearland, TX 77581

281-997-1044

281-485-9840

vcawestsidetx.com

vcawestsidevet.com

Spring

VCA Westside Animal Hospital 6034 Broadway Street Pearland, TX 77581 281-485-9840

VCA Champions Northwest Animal Hospital 8901 Louetta Spring, TX 77379 281-370-0773

vcachampionsnorthwest.com

vcawestsidetx.com

Spring

VCA Four Seasons Animal Hospital 3730 FM 2920, Suite 110 Spring, TX 77388 281-825-4994

VCA Champions Northwest Animal Hospital 8901 Louetta Spring, TX 77379 281-370-0773

vcafourseasons.com

vcachampionsnorthwest.com

VCA Four Seasons Animal Hospital 3730 FM 2920, Suite 110 Spring, TX 77388

VCA Woodlands Animal Hospital 428 Rayford Road Spring, TX 77386 281-367-7553

281-825-4994

vcawoodlands.com

vcafourseasons.com

VCA Spring Animal Hospital 1811 Spring Cypress Spring, TX 77388

281-353-5167

vcaspring.com

VCA Stafford Oaks Animal Hospital 927 Dulles Ave Stafford, TX 77477 281-499-3538

VCA Southwest Freeway Animal Hospital 15575 SW Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-8387

vcaswfreeway.com

vcastaffordoaks.com

Tomball

Sugar Land

VCA Lexington Boulevard Animal Hospital 2627 Cordes Dr.

Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-980-3737

VCA Tomball Veterinary Hospital 28800 Tomball Parkway Tomball, TX 77375 281-351-5441

vcatomball.com

vcalexingtonblvd.com

Texas City

VCA Mainland Animal Hospital 7232 Medical Center Drive Texas City, TX 77591 409-948-8401

VCA Southwest Freeway Animal Hospital 15575 SW Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-8387

vcamainland.com

vcaswfreeway.com

Tomball

VCA Tomball Veterinary Hospital 28800 Tomball Parkway Tomball, TX 77375 281-351-5441

vcatomball.com

Texas City

VCA Mainland Animal Hospital 7232 Medical Center Drive Texas City, TX 77591 409-948-8401

vcamainland.com

Letter from the Editor

On the cover

SITTING PRETTY!

Meet Gable, the rambunctious Golden Retriever owned by Dr. Laura Noaker (actually, he owns her) of VERGI 24/7. When we first discussed Gable being our cover model, Laura admitted his ability to sit and stay was not something she would make a major bet on, so we also had Rio waiting in the wings should Gable not nail his sit/stay. As perhaps expected, Gable was hilarious and of course would not sit for the photo LOL! We wanted to give him a shout-out for trying by showing off how cute he is here with mom, and also a big thank you to the actual cover pup, Rio!

Our annual dog training issue is always fun to put together utilizing content from our many training experts. Enjoy the articles in our feature story!

Cover: Allison Wilkins Photography

March is the official kick-off to Spring so head outdoors, find a park bench and enjoy perusing our 17th Annual Spring Training Issue. After taking a little break by publishing a Jan/Feb double issue, we are back on the stands with an unbridled passion for all things pet!

Having an obedient dog may be considered a luxury to some, but not having one can be a fatal mistake. Obedience first and foremost is about the safety of your pet and others. Yes, it requires time and dedication and we applaud those pet parents out there that have invested in a sound relationship with their dog. For those that have not, please consider making it a priority. I don't think I have ever met a lifelong pet enthusiast that doesn't have their version of a pet-safety horror story (a dog that escaped from the house or jumped from a car or slipped from their collar, etc.), which makes having control of your dog essential. However, that's not the only reason to invest in training your dog and developing a shared communication. Your relationship and calmer lifestyle together is priceless!

Training is a huge subject that we cannot possibly cover in this issue but we hope to give you some food for thought, particularly to enlighten pet owners about tips and techniques for success from some of Houston’s top trainers. By learning about the foundation of training, you can experience a mutually respectful relationship with your pup. And, if you need professional training, our sponsors are all positive based, highly experienced professionals ready to help you on your training journey.

In this issue, we offer lots of valuable

content for you in addition to dog training information. Our health section features articles on pet dementia by Dr. Sandburg of Blue Pearl Pet Hospice and an interesting story about splenectomies by Dr. Laura Noaker of VERGI 24/7 Emergency Hospital.

The wildlife section is also extra wild this month, featuring an article about pangolins from the Houston Zoo and a “did you know” article about the bats at the Waugh St. Bridge. Many people know Austin is famous for their Congress Bridge Bats, but many folks aren’t aware that Houston has some really cool winged wildlife as well.

Next up, it's time to launch our annual Pets in the Wildflowers contest which is definitely a fan favorite! It’s the only contest that we publish ALL entries, no matter how many! The contest begins April 1, via our website or our newsletter. I definitely encourage you to sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter as an additional place to find out about all things pet in Houston, including contests, new pet business openings, offers and more. Sign up at HoustonPetTalk.com.

Finally, I want to share that I recorded my first podcast as a guest of Freddy Cruz, our hometown favorite radio personality and podcaster! Listen to us chat about publishing PetTalk, Henrietta, my menagerie of animals and more at CruzThroughHTX.com It was a fun experience because Freddy is such a pro! You can also listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Enjoy the beautiful Texas outdoors with your pet(s) this month…it’s exhilarating after a dreary winter. As always, we appreciate your support of PetTalk and our sponsors!

Art Director:

Where in the World is PetTalk?

Send your Travel photos featuring PetTalk

You never know where on this planet you might find a PetTalk reader enjoying their copy! If you’ve snapped a travel pic of yourself or one of our readers, send your photo to info@houstonpettalk.com.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA

Viva Las Vegas! Spin that wheel to win big bucks while reading PetTalk...what could be more exciting?? Kaia Mantor says "nothing could be better" as she proudly reads PetTalk in Las Vegas. Since Kaia is still smiling and clearly in the airport, should we assume this was her arrival and not her departure:)?

Henrietta

Some things in life have value, like doctors, honey bees, concrete and eye glasses. Other things have no value, like the Kardashians, tofu brownies and toe rings. Nothing brought this concept home like an experience I recently had with one of my cousins. For privacy’s sake, so as not to damage her otherwise already damaged reputation of ineptitude, I cannot tell you which cousin. We will just call her cousin H (cousin Hortense asked that I make sure to let everyone know it’s NOT her).

In February, Cousin H and I were camped out at the Salty Dog enjoying a Mardi Grasthemed libation while waiting for the first YouTube episode of Thee Leash with Megan Thee Stallion to drop. We'd been on a countdown for two days, highly anticipating the peak into our hometown girl's Texas ranch and her menagerie of animals. While discussing what it would be like to be a rap star with a big booty, Cousin H suddenly reached in her bag and pulled out her latest copy of DOGUE - she apparently remembered a contest she wanted to tell me about.

Sealing The Deal

AAALLL!!!” She squealed his name so loud I thought Mr. Gunderson’s pig had come in the door for a cold one. Next, I heard myself actually encouraging this madness by asking what she had to do to win. Cousin H quickly scanned the contest rules, jumped off her barstool, grabbed my paw and dragged me out the door. “We have to be the first one to find 5 items in a Fashion Treasure Hunt!"

Now, the operative word here is “We”. Not “I” but “We”. It all happened so fast. One minute I’m enjoying shootin’ the bull over a

wearing a fishing jacket and a feather hat, I had to face Felicity Farnsworth who topped off the day with this tidbit: “Henrietta, you really should check yourself into a rehab unit and I don’t mean one with underwater treadmills and agility equipment.” Great. Now the entire neighborhood will know about this within the time it’s going to take me to kill my cousin.

I’m still reeling from how I got into this mess when Cousin H pulls me into the DOGUE offices beaming proudly that she has tracked down all 5 items. “You are the winner!”, shouts the lady and Cousin H jumps on the desk and nearly licks the woman’s face off. For my part, I'm thinking this might not be so bad because want to kiss me too. “Wait right here while I get your prize” says the lady. Wow! SEAL is actually

waddled on its flippers right over to us. Cousin

From SEAL, not Win A Kiss From A SEAL. I wasn't wearing my glasses and I was only off by one letter!”,

lady felt so sorry arm around and led her ing “Now, now dear,

“Henrietta, you know how gaga I am over the singer SEAL, right?” “Yes Cousin H…who wouldn’t know that. Your ringtone is Kiss From A Rose, you’re constantly humming Crazy and anytime his song Killer comes on, you stop what you're doing and bust a move. So yes, I know.”

“Well, you won’t believe it but there is a contest in DOGUE to win a KISS from SEEE-

street, scanned through racks of clothes, checked the dumpsters (we didn’t find any of the items but I did find a half-eaten McRib sandwich which may have actually made this escapade worth it) and took the subway to a sporting goods store for lures. Breathless, out of money, and standing back in front of the Salty Dog with Cousin H wearing a pink polka dot bikini with one gold slipper and me

have to do is….” And there I was, left holding the bag; in this case, a Seal. What the heck am I going to do with a Seal? Dragon Lady always says when life gives you rain, drink from a mud puddle so if I couldn’t have a Kiss from SEAL, I thought it wasn’t so bad to have a kiss from A SEAL. As it turned out, he was a pretty good kisser and we share a love of sushi. I can live with that.

Henrietta

RPM's Annual Chefs For Paws Event Delights Foodies!

The 8th annual Chefs for Paws, benefitting Rescued Pets Movement (RPM), took place on January 14th in the stunning ballroom at the C. Baldwin Hotel downtown. The sold-out audience of foodies and rescue supporters enjoyed a ten-course extravaganza featuring some of Houston’s most celebrated chefs. All donated their time

and ingredients for the cause alongside an incredible array of craft cocktails, beer and wine from a slew of animal-loving sponsors. Critical funds were raised for the group, who has rescued, provided vet care and transport for nearly 86,000 stray and abandoned pets since their founding in 2013. Learn more about their organization at RescuedPetsMovement.org.

Photos courtesy of Pam Ashley Photography/Main Street Studio

Shelby Roquemore, Kendra Ralston, Emcee Kara Willis, Jodie Eisenhardt

Ria Van Dright-Arya and John Morrow

Houston Council Member Sally Alcorn and Alison Bell

Shelby Roquemore & Sandee Maxwell

16TH ANNUAL WILDFLOWER PHOTO CONTEST ENTRY: APRIL 1-15 VOTING: APRIL 16-23

It's time for our longest running contest (16 years!) in celebration of the beautiful Texas Wildflowers, sponsored by Sunset Animal Hospital. As the flowers begin to bloom in March and continue through part of April, be sure to take your pet(s) on an outing and capture a fun photo and enter our 16th annual contest (no humans in photos please). Entry is from April 1 to April 15, public voting is April 16-23 to select Finalists. Sunset Animal Hospital will select the winner, who will receive a $200 certificate for services at Sunset. We are always impressed by the amazing entries and appreciate your creativity!

SPONSORED

To enter visit HoustonPetTalk.com or our FACEBOOK page beginning April 1 and click the link to the entry page and upload your photo. Be sure to include your pet's name. If you are a professional photographer, please note your entry as Professional Division. The winning photo and ALL entries will be published in PetTalk's June issue!

Sunset Animal Hospital is located at 2959 SW Freeway and is open 24/7 offering top quality medical treatment for your pet. Thank you Sunset for your generous sponsorship! Learn more about them at SunsetAnytime.com.

1st Place Winner!

Finn Rorschach

Olive Sam

K9 Resorts Third Location Opening in Sugar Land

K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel will continue its rapid growth in the Greater Houston area with the opening of its third location in Sugar Land. Conveniently located at 14033 Southwest Freeway just south of the IH 69 and US 90 interchange, K9 Resorts of Sugar Land will have space to accommodate more than 80 dogs for overnight boarding and more than 120 for doggie daycare. Visit K9resorts.com/SugarLand or call (281) 378-6472 for more information or to make a reservation.

Started in 2005 by a pair of young dogloving entrepreneurs in New Jersey, K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel has grown to include 31 open locations in 16 states nationwide, with nearly

150 more in various stages of development from coast to coast. Their original location in Houston is located in the Energy Corridor at 12145 Katy Freeway and the second location is in Katy at 1380 W. Grand Parkway S, Suite 400. All locations provide luxury boarding and daycare.

K9 Resorts also prides itself on its strict sanitation procedures as well as top-tier, trained employees that K9 Resorts professionally educates and certifies to provide unparalleled customer service and animal expertise.

Learn more about their services, awards and more at K9Resorts.com.

March Wellness Specials At Houston Humane Society

Attention new puppy parents! The Houston Humane Society is thrilled to announce March's Animal Wellness Clinic Special: A FREE Puppy Package with a 1-month supply of Heartworm Preventative! Your adorable pup deserves the best care, and HHS is ready to make it easier and more affordable for you.

For a limited time, enjoy $50 in savings as you give your furry friend their first round of vaccines and the protection they need against heartworms.  Book your appointment today at the Houston Humane Society Clinic via the website, HoustonHumane.org, to keep your pup on the road to good health!

Lucy Goo Pet

Cost Effective Preventive Veterinary Care Offered by CAP

In the heart of Houston's west side, Citizens for Animal Protection's pet wellness clinic, The Cornelius Clinic, stands as a beacon of value for the city's pet-loving community. It's where accessibility meets costeffective solutions, a pawsome combination!

With special days like Technician Tuesdays, The CAP Cornelius Clinic offers pet owners an alternative to traditional vet visits. Skilled veterinary technicians take center stage, handling everything from vaccinations to nail trims and ear cleanings. Since the clinic is focused on preventive measures, pet parents are asked to not bring their sick or injured pet.

GO LOCAL. BOOK GOO

Voted Houston's #1 Pet Sitting Business from the Readers of Pet Talk Magazine

Text/Call: 281-300-6712

LUCYGOOPETSITTING.COM

Plus, because The CAP Cornelius Clinic is a nonprofit clinic, your furry friend’s next visit

will help care for Houston’s homeless animals. Go to Cap4pets.org to book your pet’s visit and to learn about Technician Tuesdays and the array of services offered. Find the CAP Cornelius Clinic behind the shelter at 17555 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77094, between Barker-Cypress and Park Ten Boulevard.

Hollywood Feed Opens Two New Locations

Great news for pet supply shoppers! Hollywood Feed recently opened two new locations in the Houston area. The stores are located in Cypress and Magnolia where shoppers can find a variety of products for all of their dog and cat needs. Hollywood Feed focuses heavily on natural and holistic brands. The Feed Team members receive over 40 hours of training each year from veterinarians, nutritionists, and behaviorists. Same day delivery and curbside options are available at both locations. Hollywood Feed offers a promise of satisfaction: If you or your pet doesn’t love your purchase, they will gladly replace or refund the item. The new locations are:

Hollywood Feed Cypress: 4320 US-290, Ste 200, Cypress, 77429 - Next to HEB

Hollywood Feed Magnolia: 33108 Magnolia Circle, Ste 140, Magnolia, 77354 - Next to HEB

To learn more about Hollywood Feed or to find locations in Greater Houston, visit them online at HollywoodFeed.com.

Pet First Aid & CPR certified Bonded/Insured/Background checked

LEAVE RUSH HOUR TO US WITH SAME DAY DELIVERY

SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE!

Barrio Dogs 14th Anniversary & Pedal For Paws

Join Barrio Dogs on Sunday, March 24 to celebrate their 14th Anniversary and Pedal for Paws event. This fundraiser will include a few quick stops for a history lesson of a landmark, mural or hidden gem, all while pedaling for the benefit of Barrio Dogs’ mission to educate communities and help end suffering and overpopulation of pets in Houston. You can ride as an individual, or form a team, and don’t forget you can fundraise for the cause as well.

Pedal for Paws will take place at Bohemeo’s, 708 Telephone Road, from 10am to 5pm. For more information or to sign up for the event, visit them online at BarrioDogs.org.

Emancipet’s Pulling For Pets at Emancipation Park April 14

Make Mine Chocolate.

Did you know that rabbits are the third most commonly abandoned animal?

Emancipet invites everyone to celebrate their 14th Anniversary with this free, family-friendly, and pet-friendly event featuring the return of Pulling for Pets, plus vendors, activities and more. Come for the fun and learn more about Emancipet’s non-profit veterinary clinics and support their mission to provide accessible, affordable veterinary care in Houston.

Every dollar donated to Emancipet allows them to reduce the costs their clients pay for services. For details, visit Emancipet.org.

During the Easter holiday season, it is important to remember that rabbits are a 10-year commitment, and should not be impulse purchases or gifts — especially for young children. All too often, these bunnies are quickly abandoned: dumped outdoors or left at crowded shelters. We can’t rescue them all.

This year, make your Easter bunny chocolate instead.

Photo provided by Barrio Dogs.

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#ShareWithUs!

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. @osa.bernedoodle Forgot to take photos at the obedience show ‘n go today, but found this old pic of Osa with a hat.

2. @onecentween go ahead, try to tell me you’ve ever seen a cuter leprechaun in your entire life, I’ll wait Happy #stpattysday y’all! #leprechaun #getlucky

3. @bailey_and_gracie_the_ tzus Happy St. Patrick’s Day Wishing you all a wonderful day full of luck and rainbows with a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow!

4. @kodathecanineyoda KISS ME, I wish! We are going for a new look this St. Patrick's Day. It's a wreath from Target instead of a hat from Dollar Tree. What do you think? Do the hidden ears make my face look too small?

5. @murphythedancingdood "Let the Shenanigans begin!"

6. @thortherubycavalier wearing my green, where is yours?

7. @duke_and_darla Sorry for the lack of posts, I have not been feeling the best lately. Mom gave me a nice bubble bath and much needed spa day so hopefully I feel better soon!!

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Get Enlightened TIPS FROM DOG TRAINING EXPERTS

Intro: Michelle Mantor, Opening Photo: Allison Wilkins Photography

Do you love your dog? Isn't that a silly question...of course you do! But have you ever thought about the things that shape your relationship with your dog? For instance, is your dog obedient to the point you would not have to worry about his safety should he get out the front door? Does he understand what you expect from him resulting in a fun, calm lifestyle together? Dog training has come a long way from the dark ages of archaic advice such as "hitting them with a newspaper for potty mistakes". Thank goodness dog behavior has been studied extensively and light has been shed on old, erroneous ideas about training. Come step into the light with us and learn more about modern training methods, tips and techniques from our experienced training sponsors so that you can have a mutually respectful relationship with your dog.

Introducing A New Pet

Ashlynn Rountree, Trainer; Dr. Clara Scott, Owner; Blessed Paws Luxury Pet Resort | BlessedPaws.com

There are many things that come into play when we introduce a pet to their new human family and animal family. Everyone in the household is going to become part of that puppy’s pack, except the cat. Cat’s are above us all! So when we think about “pack” mentality, the alpha needs to be the authoritative human that will be feeding and providing discipline.

The first thing to think about is making sure that all supplies are purchased ahead of time and the food remains the same as what the puppy was getting prior to coming home with you. This is to decrease the chance of diarrhea. Having familiarity with an article of clothing or a small blanket, from the original household, to leave with the puppy is important to reduce stress. That said, smell is an important factor and considering a product like DAP (dog appeasing pheromone) may ease the transition.

Visually, the puppy is accessing all new pack members to assess who they are going to chew on, who they are in charge of, and who is going to give them food. Their attention span is short, meaning you need to have patience and

keep redirecting them. For example, if they start chewing on you, use a toy to help redirect that behavior. Ideally, the toys chosen cannot be swallowed, as that is the most common surgery under the age of one.

To introduce a new pack member to an existing housemate, you will need to consider age, breed and size. The original dog in the house, who the family is attached to, must get along with the new addition. Their smell is all over the house as they consider the space theirs. To introduce a new pack member it needs to be done on neutral territory, such as the front yard. If both pets are adults, they need to be leashed to avoid confrontation. Even if the puppy is much younger and smaller, leashing them would help avoid injury. At first, both dogs are going to smell each other thoroughly from front to back. This is how they discern things like male or female, friendly or not friendly. If the original dog shows any form of aggression, the owner can correct that behavior immediately by establishing alpha. It is not common for a puppy to show aggression unless some form of trauma has occurred.

Eventually both dogs will wag their tails happily in the air and start to play. You can unleash once you feel comfortable that they are getting along.

For the next challenge, food bowls need to be up inside the house. Each animal needs to be fed separately for at least the first month. Separation of food is to avoid the adult dog from eating the puppy food, to avoid food aggression and lastly, to make sure the puppy is eating the amount it needs to grow.

The first two weeks of adjusting to the new household is when we need to be careful with food aggression, toy aggression, fear of children, and kennel anxiety. Human behavior may contribute to future separation anxiety in the pup. It's important to use kennels when the puppy is unsupervised, traveling, or at night. The best suggestion is to read about establishing alpha so that the relationship between all pack members is enjoyable. Congratulations on your new family member!

Creating A Safe Environment For Kids & Dogs

Katie Clark, Director of Training at Peace Love Dogs | PeaceLoveDogsHouston.com

The bond between children and dogs can be special and, quite frankly, adorable! However, maintaining a safe and harmonious relationship can take a lot of work. Here are a few tips to create an environment where kids and dogs coexist happily:

1. Prevention is everything! Establish a safe space for your dog, such as a crate or pen, where they can relax independently. This not only provides a refuge for the dog, but also teaches kids to respect the pet's personal space. Setting these parameters early on lays the foundation for a mutually respectful relationship.

2. Guidance is equally essential. It is important to show kids how to appropriately interact with their dog. Teach them to approach the dog calmly, avoid sudden movements, and to be gentle with their affection. Children can also learn to identify canine body language with the use of picture books, videos, and real life opportunities.

3. Inclusion is a powerful tool for cultivat-

ing bonds. Involve your dog in various family activities safely, from daily walks to relaxing evenings watching TV or even car rides to and from school. These shared, positive experiences strengthen the connection between children and their pups.

4. Clarity in communication is critical. Teach both your dog and children the expectation of respecting personal boundaries. A strong “Leave It” cue for dogs can set these expectations clearly, and spare your child’s favorite plush toy from a tragic de-stuffing! Limit access to high-value items, such as chews or bones, to your dog’s safe space to avoid potential conflicts and ensure a safer environment for everyone.

5. Involve the whole family in dog training! Get everyone involved in age-appropriate exercises, turning training sessions into a collaborative activity. This not only enhances the dog's behavior, but also promotes a sense of responsibility and teamwork among family members.

By incorporating these principles into your

family routine, you can create a secure and loving environment where the relationship between kids and dogs thrives, ensuring the well-being of both tiny humans and their pups. If you need help implementing any of these tips, ask a professional dog trainer!

Puppy Socialization

Bennett, CPDT-KSA, Owner, Believe in Dog Training | BelieveInDog.com

Socialization is one of the most crucial and time-sensitive aspects of raising a puppy. A puppy’s magical sweet spot, otherwise known as the critical socialization period, is from 3 weeks to 4 months of age.

The benefits of confidence built through providing your puppy with a myriad of positive experiences during their first 4 months cannot be emphasized enough. Appropriate early socialization can mean the difference between a happy, well-balanced dog that can accompany you anywhere, and a dog that may be skittish and nervous almost everywhere outside their own bubble of safety.

Many puppy owners assume that socialization is all about playing with other dogs. While learning appropriate play is important, it is only a tiny piece of the pie. The goal is to help puppies carefully and safely form positive associations with as many things as possible that will be a part of their world.

» Objects

» People

» New Environments

» Sounds

» Handling

» Other Dogs

» Alone Time

» Other Animals

The best and fastest way to make sure your puppy has great experiences is to associate the new things (novel stimuli) with things they love (food or play). Be careful not to overwhelm your puppy. We want to help them learn that the world may be loud or unpredictable sometimes, but it’s always safe and can be

super fun! Go at your puppy’s speed and never force them to do anything. Give your puppy the choice to say no, add distance, or leave the situation altogether. Be patient and take it easy as it’s just as easy to imprint a negative association as it is a positive one. You must become an expert at reading your dog’s body language and if they seem worried, or stop taking treats, you are either too close, or the new thing is too intense. Always be ready and willing to increase the distance between the stimuli and your puppy, and/or decrease the intensity of the stimulus.

EARLY SOCIALIZATION DOS:

» Introduce puppy to all kinds of household items like vacuums, brooms, hair dryers, balloons, umbrellas, toys that move and make sounds, etc.

» Create a huggable puppy by hand feeding them dinner while gently touching all body parts from head to toe.

» Sit out in the front of your house when it’s busy on your street (or take a slow car ride with the windows down) and help puppy enjoy passing trucks, bikes, strollers, children playing, other dogs etc.

» Create unusual surfaces for puppy to walk on: bubble wrap, aluminum foil, wobbly surface, cardboard box, etc.

» Have everybody in your household play dress up and act like a silly willy! Put on “strange” things: hats, masks, glasses, clumpy boots, helmets. etc.

» Play audio of babies crying, children playing, thunder, sirens, etc.

» Feed every meal in a food puzzle or unusual item: a box, rolled up towel, muffin tin, plastic Easter eggs, etc.

» Find a puppy class/school that practices strict safety protocols and the trainers have verified certifications.

» Seek out appropriate, one -on-one visits and appropriate playdates with other known vaccinated dogs.

EARLY SOCIALIZATION DON’TS:

» Go to dog parks, dog daycares or big box stores.

» Walk or sniff anywhere other dogs of unknown vaccination status have been eliminating.

» Use any tools or methods that cause pain, intimidation, or fear.

» Keep your puppy home until vaccinations are complete.

Stephanie

Understanding Resource Guarding

Jeff Murphrey, Owner, Canine Country Club | MyCanineCountryClub.com

RESOURCE GUARDING DEFINED

As the name implies, resource guarding occurs when a dog values something and takes steps to prevent either another dog, a human or both from taking or often even approaching that "thing". A resource can be anything a particular dog values: a bone, a toy, a food bowl, a bed, their owner...literally anything. It is the canine version of “this is mine and you can’t have it.” Guarding can range from moving away with an object when approached, to posturing, growling, air snapping and biting. Unfortunately, left unaddressed, the guarding behavior often increases in frequency and intensity and sometimes generalizes to other objects or people.

THE CAUSE: INSTINCT IN OVERDRIVE

Think of every documentary you’ve ever seen that follows a pack of canids (wolves, wild dogs, etc.) and shows them “sharing” a meal - often looks less like sharing and more like a take and guard competition with the

rules set by pack position. In our domestic dogs, the underlying need to guard is out of whack with reality, a kind of misperception of scarcity since we humans provide all of the resources necessary to live and then some. In other words, it is sort of the dog version of Gordon Gekko’s “greed . . . is good.”

DOG VS. DOG: FOOD AND OBJECTS AS RESOURCES

Depending on severity/intensity, this type can often be well managed via control of the food or objects: family dogs can be fed separately and their bowls picked up after feeding, chew toys or similar valued objects can be given only while the dogs are crated or otherwise physical-

separated. On the upside, this type of management avoids the need for more laborious and time consuming behavioral modification techniques. On the downside, management doesn’t alter the underlying cause and thus is unforgiving of mistakes.

DOG VS. HUMANS: FOOD, OBJECTS, AND HUMANS AS RESOURCES

Because of the danger presented and the odds of ever-increasing escalation, these situations definitely cry out for professional assistance. A qualified dog trainer/behaviorist can evaluate the severity and provide personalized guidance to develop a reward based behavioral modification plan. This is particularly true when the resource being guarded is the dog's owner, as often (perhaps usually) the owner misconstrues this behavior as the dog being “protective”. If your dog growls or barks aggressively when someone approaches you, is it because she perceives a threat, or because she views her owner as something she owns? Discerning the difference is probably best left to a seasoned professional who can safely tease out the answer using a series of simple tests and then work with you and your dog to address the problem. Whatever the method used, the owner must ultimately rearrange the dog’s perception of their relationship: You pay the mortgage, the vet bills and everything else, and therefore are not a prison roommate “owned’ by the dog.

Align Yourself For Success In Training

Dean Miller, Owner, Club Canine | ClubCanineHouston.com

With 50+ years of family history professionally training dogs and teaching owners how to become teachers to their own dogs, our biggest challenge has always been the owners. Now, I know this is a common slogan in training dogs but it extends much further than just getting owners to practice with their dogs or to be consistent. As creators of The Thinking Dog training approach, its greatest strengths are its evolution in order to adapt to not only the best ways to motivate dogs, but the ever-changing ways owners attempt to live with their dogs, as well as the skills, safety and confidence required for success.

OUT OF BALANCE

It's not uncommon for us to receive calls from frustrated owners regarding training and their previous training attempts and failures with their dogs, producing little more than mediocre results and cooperation. "My dog can sit, sometimes, and won’t come when called." "My dog is perfect 90% of the time, other than when a stranger approaches to pet him or a child approaches." "My dog knows the basics and has been through intermediate training, but I'd like him to learn how to sit and STAY when things are going on around us." Isn’t that BASIC?

Many owners communicate that they have become hostage to throwing treats constantly at their dogs and in turn their dogs will do NOTHING without their trained human partner pleading and pandering to them. And even then, many dogs have learned that most conduct is at their discretion. They will ignore yelling, screaming, even their favorite treats over the cat or squirrel or whatever the distraction, only to return attention to the owner when they feel like it and still get rewarded, so who's trained who?

Why did the training not produce success in creat-

ing an enjoyable and obedient dog? While there are a number of reasons for training to fail, what’s not been properly addressed ties back to our daily relationship practices. In fact, what most dogs HAVE been learning in their relationships is that people are confusing, negotiable, overindulgent, uninteresting and most times, plain incapable...all with good intentions.

HOW TO ALIGN YOURSELF FOR SUCCESS

Most owners unintentionally send so many mixed messages, the dogs become resistant to being cooperative. How can a dog grow to feel SAFE as a junior partner and trust a leader that’s confusing? At home, the dogs are living like the king or the queen, actually creating a resistant minded animal or as many label them, stubborn. While many dogs can be very independent in their thinking, they weren’t born stubborn, it was learned. Compare this to the dog that learns to adhere to a standard of behavior and conduct throughout his/her daily life, first, through addressing our day-to-day relationship interactions and standards in order to maximize clarity and learning. Training is not something that is ON then OFF, it’s how you live and connect with that animal on a day to day basis.

Ever take your dog for a walk and get towed around the block? That tight leash between you and your dog is communicating to the dog that your relationship outside the house is a power struggle, a tug of war if you will. And the dogs perceived WIN as the leader is dragging you as the follower around the block and back home again. Both of these above examples have been practiced with NO purpose or servitude from the dog to the handler AND examples of positive re-enforcement causing conflict.

Many owners, in an attempt to train, have heard, read, watched tv/videos or been instructed to teach the dog to prioritize everything but THEM in an attempt to get them to pay ATTENTION. Most owners have been encouraging their dog to prioritize treats or their toys, drawing the animals’ attention AWAY from the handler themselves. Just because you’re holding it doesn’t mean the dog is making YOU important. And, when owners try to use verbal praise, it lacks meaning for most, as they typically get so much indulgence of attention on a daily basis for no reason, the dog places little value on earning it through work.

The biggest disconnect I find with dog owners and their dogs is that many have unintentionally made themselves, UNIMPORTANT. We have become unimportant through interactions that confuse the dogs, sending messages of equality in the relationship and many times, communicating that the dog is his own leader, there to serve himself.

Dog owners LOVE their dogs but did you ever think that your perceived love and affection at times could be doing more harm than good? Most of our human definition of love/ affection is actually overindulgence and is out of balance with any expectation of the dog ever having a meaningful purpose to and for us. Without this purpose and expectation, dogs can very quickly confuse our love and kindness for weakness based on their system of communication, at which point we can begin to lose leadership status.

Purpose and servitude of work are a must in the relationship - it’s the dogs drive in life. In its absence, we’re unable to connect as a team. If we don’t supplement the relationship with teaching true expectation as the first step, we shouldn’t be so dumbfounded when we put our underprepared dog(s) in real world situations where the strengths of distractions easily override the dogs attention of our PERCEIVED importance, leaving us looking weak in the dogs mind, as we struggle for control.

Dogs are like kids, meaning, how will they ever learn how to build a healthy respect for a person as a qualified leader when they're always living in conflict, coerced into rules and responsibilities or overindulged into making effort? Is it fair to eliminate meaningful communication and information required to make sound decisions so there’s a fair chance at understanding where limits and boundaries are in the relationship? The dog is not dumb. Once they have determined that there is little or no fair consequence to their inappropriate conduct and behavior balanced into their lives as well as acknowledgements and rewards of success, they’re more likely to do what only pleases them in the moment. This is not to say that this is the ONLY mixed message that causes training challenges, there are many common practices that without change will be more likely to damage their positive and willing attitude towards learning and obedience.

Photo of Gable by Allison Wilkins Photography

Should My Dog Attend Daycare?

Hayley Kenner, Trainer/Owner, Revival Training | RevivalDogTraining.com

Every dog is a good dog, but not every dog is a daycare dog! Many dogs are best suited for one-to-one interaction with others as opposed to a large doggie crowd. Surely you can relate! If you're wondering how your dog would fare in the daycare scene, we can give you the inside scoop.

Much like people, dog sociability is a spectrum which contains varying degrees of social behavior and preferences. Wherever your dog falls on this spectrum is neither good nor bad; it's all normal! A dog’s social preferences may have something to do with age, genetic makeup, and frequency of exposure. Because their preferences tend to change over time, it is important to keep expectations realistic when it comes to your dog's social circle. Every so often, you will need to reevaluate their social barometer and make adjustments accordingly. Many owners believe that dog parks and daycares are the best environments to socialize their dog, but oftentimes these settings can be overwhelming and unnecessary, sometimes even detrimental. Before experimenting with a dog group situation, you may first ask yourself the following questions:

» Does my dog display play behavior towards other dogs? Does he/she show sustained interest and engagement when around other dogs?

» Have there been any incidents in the past that might have shifted my dog’s perception of other dogs?

» Can my dog tolerate sharing resources (space, attention, toys, water, etc.) with other dogs?

» Is there anything that is hindering my dog physically?

If you are unsure about any of these questions, you may consult with a professional trainer to evaluate your dog and guide you to appropriate social outlets. If your dog seems to check all the boxes for a group play atmosphere, you will want to find a daycare program that is structured, safe, and allows autonomy in their participation. Here are some other good qualities to look for:

» Adequate space for the number of dogs.

» A comfortable ratio of staff to dogs.

» Cultivated play groups that are rotated throughout the day.

» Downtime between play sessions. At times, a dog’s social ventures can be a delicate process that requires much patience and understanding from the human end! Not every dog requires or desires other dog interaction, and it is in the best interest of everyone to not force or rush it. If you and your dog need help getting started with building or expanding dog-dog social skills, we can help. Here at Revival Dog Training, our customizable Day Training program is designed to meet the needs of each individual dog. This program is what most dogs actually require to be successful in social situations, versus a no holds barred daycare or dog park!

5 Myths About Dog Training

Jordyn Barker, Meadowlake Pet Resort | MeadowlakePetResort.com

YOU CAN’T TEACH AN OLD DOG NEW TRICKS

In reality, this is far from the truth. The brain has a remarkable ability called neuroplasticity, which means it can rewire and adapt even at an older age. Learning new skills or adopting fresh habits isn’t reserved for the young. In fact, many older dogs have shattered this myth by embarking on new journeys of learning and growth.

YOU NEED TO USE DOMINANCE TO TRAIN YOUR DOG SO HE/SHE KNOWS WHO IS ALPHA

For many years, the prevailing belief in dog training was based on the idea of establishing dominance over your pet. This approach is often referred to as the “alpha dog” or “pack leader” method. However, contemporary dog training methods have evolved, and this myth has been debunked. Dominance-based training can damage the bond between you and your pet, whereas positive reinforcement and

balanced training builds a strong, affectionate relationship.

MY DOG LISTENS AT HOME, SO HE/SHE DOESN’T NEED TRAINING

It’s not uncommon for pet owners to believe that if their dog behaves well at home, they don’t require formal training. This myth assumes that if the dog doesn’t exhibit problematic behaviors in familiar surroundings, training is unnecessary. While a dog may behave well at home, their behavior in different environments or around other people and animals may vary. Proper training can help your dog remain well-behaved in various situations. And since life is unpredictable, it’s always better to be prepared!

YOU CAN’T TRAIN A PUPPY UNTIL THEY ARE 6 MONTHS OLD

Another common myth that often circulates is the belief that you should wait until a

puppy reaches a certain age, typically around six months, to begin training. Early training is crucial for puppies. Puppies are like sponges, and their learning capacity is at its peak during their early months. Waiting until they are older can lead to missed opportunities for crucial socialization and obedience training. It also may mean that they have developed bad habits that will take longer to change and in turn, cost you more money.

ONCE TRAINED, YOU NO LONGER HAVE TO KEEP UP WITH TRAINING

The most crucial part of training a dog is continued practice at home. A successful trainer will make sure that you understand the principles they teach so that you can continue training your dog on your own. Always ask what ongoing resources will be available to you after training so that you are set up to succeed as much as your dog is.

Potty Training Tips

John Slaughter, Relevant Dog Training | RelevantDogTraining.com

Do you want to become the potty training master? It is all about making a potty journal! Get yourself a notebook and a pen and get everybody in the house on the same page. Start by writing down each time your dog goes potty (including inside or out), as well as when they eat and have crate time. A puppy's bladder stretch is measured by their age in months, plus one. For example, a four-month old puppy should be able to last 5 hours.

When it comes to feeding, I suggest twice a day unless your dog has a specific issue. Depending on your puppy's age, they may have 3, 4 or 5 poops a day...sometimes more when really young. Needing to urinate or defecate is typically tied to meals, so there are two times you can be fairly sure of. The others are going to be in the middle and your job is to figure out when those are. Also, remember that puppies pee three times as

much as they defecate, so you will be logging a 3 to 1 ratio in your notebook.

Additionally, paying attention to heart rate matters when potty training. As an example, if your pup just pottied an hour ago but has the zoomies and is playing hard, get them outside ASAP. An increase in heart rate will cut your time in half. Plus, if you are having potty accidents indoors, take the pup out every 1.5 to 2 hours. Sometimes they won't potty and that's okay but by keeping your log, you will begin to note the potty needs of your dog and can calibrate the times you take them outside accordingly. Remember to make sure everyone in the house is paying attention to that notebook and can participate in keeping the schedule.

Over time, the dog's natural body clock will adapt to a schedule. One option is to introduce a bell as a way for your dog to "speak" to you. Don't place it on the door,

place it beside the door. The bottom of the bell should be at the dog's nose level when on all 4 feet are on the ground .YOU will ring the bell, attach the leash, then open the door, IN THAT ORDER. The order of events is everything here. Make sure the door opening does not follow the bell. The door opening has to follow the leash going on the dog. And if you are letting the dog out without a leash to potty, you're setting yourself up for distraction. Off leash potty privilege can come later, but for now, controlling the situation is essential. After about two weeks, the dog will ring the bell on his own. You will come running excitedly! The dog will start to catch on.

Last word of advice: By writing down the potty times, you are staying consistent (which is crucial) but also, be sure to PRAISE THE CORRECT ACTIONS and you will have a potty-trained pup for life!

Enrichment For Dogs: Why It's Important

Every day you wake up, brush your teeth, let your dog out to potty, get your cup of coffee ready and start your day. Wherever your work location is (home or office), after your morning routine, you will probably start paying attention to your daily tasks and your furry one is alone at home, or no longer the focus of your attention.

In those moments, when the dog is alone and boredom starts setting in, is when some less than desirable behaviors can happen. Furniture may get brand-new teeth marks, some cushions may not get to see another day on the couch, and if your dog had access to the backyard, some flowers might not be where we planted them. I am sure you have a very funny story about your dog getting into something they were not supposed to.

Canine Enrichment is the key to helping our dogs have a proper outlet and have a healthy life. To put it simply; enrichment means engaging your dog in stimulating activities designed to engage their mind and satisfy their physical and mental needs.

WHY IS CANINE ENRICHMENT IMPORTANT?

Canine Enrichment offers a range of health benefits to your dog and strengthens the

bond between you and your pet. It also allows your dog to engage in natural behaviors that are inherent to being a dog. Sniffing, digging, running, exploring, and interacting socially are some of the many enrichment options you can plan to do with your dog.

Primarily, enrichment helps prevent boredom and destructive behavior, decreasing the likelihood of dogs developing unwanted behaviors like excessive chewing and continuous barking. The physical, mental, behavioral, and the overall well-being of your pup are just a few of the many benefits that you'll experience by implementing a consistent dog enrichment routine.

A PROPER ENRICHMENT PLAN FOR YOUR DOG

Providing proper enrichment for your dog doesn’t need to break the bank. Dog enrichment can include anything from puzzle toys and games to outdoor activities and new experiences that expose dogs to new sights, sounds, and smells.

It is also not just play-related; it can take many forms, using a variety of their senses. It is important to note when

planning your enrichment routine consider your dog’s breed-specific behaviors. A Siberian Husky plan will be different than the enrichment plan for a smaller breed, like a Chihuahua.

Most people tend to focus on physical activities and forget about their mind. If you already have physical activities planned with your dog, think about adding some Feeding Enrichment. You can use their meals and add enrichment with Stuffed Kongs, Snuffle Mats, Interactive Food Puzzles and so many other options. Helping them use their mind, figuring out how to get the delicious treats or meals out of a puzzle, helps us have that much needed mental enrichment for our dogs.

If you have any questions and need help with your dog’s behavior or training, you can contact me via PawsAllinDogTraining.com.

Lorena

We all love to play with our dogs, but there are times when we need to turn down their enthusiasm! Introduce this exercise as a game:

1. Pick an activity that gets your dog excited, like fetch or hide & seek. Use your happy voice!

2. Play the game for awhile. Before your dog loses interest, say " CHILL OUT" or whatever cue you prefer.

3. Give your dog a sustained treat - a stuffed Kong, safe chew stick, etc.

4. Walk away from your dog - read, watch TV, use

Teach Your Pup To Chill Dog Park Play: What You Need To Know

Dog park play or play with other dogs/puppies is not necessarily a bad thing but it has to be managed. Never take a puppy to a dog park and turn them loose.

First, not all dogs are the same, just like people. Some dogs are outgoing, others not so much. If your dog is not comfortable around another group of dogs or has not been exposed to a group of dogs, throwing them into a dog park situation is a bad idea. You may end up with a dog that “shuts down” or spends the remainder of its life being fearful. There is a process for introducing your pup to other playmates that you need

the computer. Ignore any attempt to get your attention. Be sure any other humans present also ignore him.

5. As soon as he lays down and is occupied with the chew, calmly praise " good chill out" without petting. No happy voice!

Be patient and consistent. The time it takes for your dog to calm down should get shorter. Once this "game" is established you can also use it when guests arrive or at human dinner time.

to understand before you head to the park. To learn more on dog park dos and don'ts, we recommend reading Off Leash Dog Play by local authors Susan Briggs and Robin Bennett or enrolling your pup in a proven daycare program where your dog will be put in an appropriate play group based on an evaluation by qualified dog trainers.

Next, once the introduction to a group of dogs has been achieved, it’s important to understand that “wild play” with other dogs is not going to do you or your dog any favors. If you allow inappropriate play with other dogs, your pup is going to learn bad habits and carry this lack of self control right into

your living room, exhibiting their newfound understanding of NO boundaries.

In the wild, mothers teach their young appropriate play and social skills but in our domesticated world, we as pet owners are responsible for developing sound social skills in our dogs. The biggest time of imprint in a pup is 6 weeks to 16 weeks. This is especially a time when fear can be imprinted so unless you understand dog behavior, the best thing you can do is enlist the help of a trainer to ensure your dog is obedient and confident, thus making your life together much more joyful.

Let's Romp! All About Dog Gone Fun Agility

Q&A With Deva Onstott of DogGoneFunAgility.com

Q: As a premier training facility that offers such a wide variety of classes and instruction, we thought a Q&A for our readers about Dog Gone Fun Agility would be a great way to showcase your facility. Let’s start with a brief description of DGFA.

A: DGFA is a 40,000+ sq ft dog training facility that sits on 5 acres near both Tomball and The Woodlands. DGFA was opened in 1998 with the current facility being opened in August of 2021.

Q: It’s amazing the amount and variety of classes you offer. Give us a basic run down of your offerings.

A: We offer classes ranging from basic puppy classes to top level performance classes. These include: Basic obedience, puppy classes, therapy dog, nose work, dock diving, agility, rally, competition obedience, and many more.

Q: What makes DGFA unique?

A: In addition to our state-of-the-art facility, our instructors will tailor a course to both the owner and dog’s specific needs. Plus, all of

our classes are small groups with the max class size being 8.

Q: Tell us about the dog owners that choose DGFA: Are they mostly experienced and into competitions or do you also have “novice” owner/dog teams as well?

A: Here at DGFA we welcome owners of all ages and experience levels from the first time puppy owner to experienced agility handler. We are especially proud of our Jr. Handler program which teaches children the best way to train and interact with dogs in all areas of life.

Q: If someone has just gotten a puppy, what class or instruction would you offer them?

A: If someone gets a new puppy, we would start them in one of our basic obedience classes. Dynamic Puppy and Brilliant Basics are our favorites.

Q: Here’s another scenario: Someone has a dog that has high drive but they don’t know how to channel it. What would you advise on how to get started in a class or how to choose the right class for their dog?

A: A dog with high drive can sometimes be a handful for a new or even an experienced dog owner. The best advice we can give is to

give them an outlet. We offer both mental and physical outlets in our performance classes.

Q: Training can take many forms from social interaction to specific commands, etc. When dog owners approach DGFA, what is the most common training they are looking for or what is the most common objective in their training?

A: Most dog owners want a more well mannered pooch. Our Obedience classes help them with this by working on focus, loose leash walking, minor reactivity, and any other training objective the owner desires.

Q: What is the most popular training class at DGFA?

A: Our agility classes are the most popular classes, followed closely by dock diving.

Q: Is basic obedience training required before a dog can start classes in other disciplines, such as agility, dock diving or scent work?

A: We do not require basic obedience before joining another class, however, it is highly recommended. To get the most out of our other classes, a dog needs to be able to focus on the more advanced tasks.

Photo provided by Dog Gone Fun Agility

Training Gear For The Savvy Dog Parent

GROOV CRATE TRAINING AID BY DIGGS

When it’s time for your puppy to rest in their crate, twist the Groov onto the side of their den to provide them with a paws-free lickable treat. As your dog focuses on consuming their treat, they find relief from the stress that often comes with learning to self-soothe apart from their humans.

PUPPY LICKIN’ LAYERS BY OUTWARD HOUND

Give your puppy’s brain a stimulating workout and keep their digestion at a healthy pace by spreading their meal onto 3 spinning layers. This moving puzzle feeder allows your puppy to use their nose, paws, and legs as they safely hunt for their food and “catch” it from each of the fun-shaped sections.

THE PUPSICLE

This multipurpose tool is like a lick mat and fun rolling ball wrapped into one durable, neat package! The Pupsicle helps your dog settle in distracting environments by focusing on licking their treats and playing independently. Make your own frozen treats using the Pupsicle Freezer Mold & your puppy’s favorite creamy treats, or purchase their pre-made peanut butter & bone broth Pupsicle Pops that are shelf-stable and delicious to dogs of all ages.

RING MY BELL

Help your pup communicate their need to go outside to potty with the proven Poochi Bells that make training so much easier. Attach to the door and your pet can ring the bells to let you know they need to go! Directions for training included in package. Get yours today at HollywoodFeed.com or one of their multilocations in Houston.

You Lucky Dog

THIS CLOVER IS NOT FOR ROVER

Celebrating the Irish is a cheery tradition so why not celebrate feline love at the same time? This St. Catrick’s Day t-shirt says it all: I love St. Patrick’s Day and I love cats too! Get yours at Etsy.com.

COLLAR ME LUCKY

Your pup will dance a jig in this festive collar embellished with St. Patrick's Day slogans. Adjustable, martingale style. Available at Etsy.com, Shop: LabradorableCollars.

POT OF GOLD

As legend goes, if you find a leprechaun at the end of a rainbow with a pot of gold, you can have the gold if you catch him. No need to find a rainbow... there is a pot of gold waiting for your pup at Doggie Express! Find tons of yummy goodies at 1402 W. 34th St. or online at TheDoggieExpress.com.

SHAMROCKIN' THE GREEN

Talk about personal style! This dog tank top with a vintage argyle diamond pattern shamrock not only caters to small and medium-sized dogs, but also can be customized to display your pup’s name. Find yours at Etsy.com, Shop: SmallWonderGifts.

Your Dog’s Spleen Its Function & Signs of Problems

Imagine that your veterinarian just informed you that your dog has a big spleen. You knew something was terribly wrong, but the spleen? There is a disconnect in your brain. You’ve heard of the spleen but what does it do and why is it big? An abdominal ultrasound is ordered. Wringing your hands and fraught with worry, you await the results.

The ultrasound images show “areas of an infiltrate of some sort and masses extending beyond the capsule of the spleen”, plus more words that you cannot comprehend at the time. Chest x-rays and an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) are ordered to look for metastasis, or a spread of any tumors beyond the spleen.

As you struggle to stay upright, an exploratory abdominal surgery is recommended to remove the spleen, as long as there is no metastasis. You try to remain calm but your mouth is as dry as the desert. You give your consent for the surgery, not really processing all this information, and the waiting begins. You hope and pray for the best news possible.

What does the spleen do and what does life without a spleen look like for our animal friends?

The spleen is located in the abdomen

byline

Dr. Laura Noaker VERGI 24/7 Animal Emergency and Critical Care Hospital, VERGI247.com

and has the main functions of helping the body fight off infections and of storing red blood cells while filtering and removing old red blood cells. (Fun Fact: the iron from these old cells is saved and recycled by the spleen!). As important as these functions are, our pets can live healthy lives long after a splenectomy, the removal of the spleen, because they have other organs that share the same important functions of the spleen.

Most spleens are removed because they have grown a tumor. In dogs, about fifty percent of masses of the spleen are benign (non-cancerous) but it is impossible for a veterinarian to determine the type of tumor by simply looking at it. The ONLY way to positively identify the type of mass is through a biopsy of the entire organ once it is removed. This is a vital part of the medical plan, as it will help you determine the next best course of action for your pet.

If your pet is experiencing a problem with the spleen, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms: loss of appetite, lethargy, pale gums, bruising, enlarged abdomen, panting, weakness and/or collapse. Do not hesitate in seeking treatment for two reasons. First, due to the vascular nature of this organ, any bleeding of the spleen can quickly escalate to life-threatening blood loss. Second, if your pet does have a malignant tumor of the spleen, if caught in time, the organ can be removed before tumors spread to other

parts of the body and you can have time to consult with a veterinary oncologist or your family veterinarian.

We know what it feels like to wait, to worry, and to love your pet so much that you find it hard to breathe when they are injured or sick. VERGI 24/7 is always open for you and your pets and we are honored to be the hospital you choose to care for your pets when they need us most.

The circled area is referred to as the tail of the spleen. In this view, the spleen is pushed back due to its large size.

The circled area indicates the triangular portion on the left side of the abdomen, which is the head of the spleen.

Dementia In Dogs and Cats

How You Can Help Them Adapt

Has your senior pet been behaving differently recently? Have you found your dog stuck under the table or your cat pooping outside of the litter box? These could be signs of Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), more often known as dementia. CDS is a progressive, irreversible and underdiagnosed syndrome that has some similarities to Alzheimer’s disease in people. Unlike people with Alzheimer’s, pets with advanced dementia do not ultimately lose the ability to eat and drink. It’s important to know the signs of CDS so that we can help more earlier in the process.

CDS can be evaluated by using the acronym DISHAA:

1) Disorientation: You may see your pet getting lost in familiar environments or staring off into space.

2) Interactions: Your pet could have new or different reactions to their family members or other animals in their household.

3) Sleep-Wake Pattern Disruption: Your dog or cat may be restless at night. Night

Erica Sandberg, DVM, CHPV

BluePearl Pet Hospice PetHospice.BluePearlVet.com

waking is unfortunately very common, especially in dogs. This can be an exhausting symptom for both the pet and the family.

4) House Soiling, Learning and Memory: Your pet that has been house trained or litter box trained for years may be urinating and/or defecating indoors/outside of the litter box.

5) Activity changes: Pets may have increased or decreased activity levels. They could have increased movements such as pacing in laps around the house. Or they may have less interest in toys or playing.

6) Anxiety: Dogs may have increased separation anxiety when their family is not home or may be more fearful of new places or people.

Not all dogs and cats will exhibit changes from all of the categories mentioned above. The most common signs of CDS in dogs are anxiety, night waking and repetitive or high-pitched vocalizations. The most common signs in cats are house soiling and increased vocalizations, especially deeper sounding meows.

How can I help my pet? Here are some suggestions:

1) Modify their environment for enrichment and interaction. Introduce new smells in the form of scented chew toys.

Use a puzzle toy or Snuffle Mat for their food. If your pet likes to look out the window, open the blinds and keep a bird feeder nearby. Elevate food and water dishes for taller dogs. Lower litter boxes for older cats.

2) Consider diet changes, medications and supplements: Antioxidants and omega fatty acids are good for the brain as well as other areas of the body. Prescription diets such as Hill’s Prescription Diet b/d and Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind can be beneficial for brain health. Medications can be prescribed depending on your pet’s symptoms and other medical conditions.

3) Prioritize your pet’s health. Make twice yearly veterinary appointments for senior pets to screen for common medical conditions, assess vision and hearing, and consult about behavior changes. Using the Purina Institute’s CDS Evaluation Tool, which can be found on the internet, you can assess your pet regularly and share this information with your veterinarian. As a team you can work together to provide your pet the most comfortable life at home in their senior years.

H-Town Hip-Hop

Bunny Buddies’ Impact on Houston-Area Rabbits

With most shelters focusing their limited resources on cats and dogs, it’s easy to overlook other rescued animals in need. During the Easter season, rabbits are thrust into the spotlight — which often leads to impulse purchases without proper research into their unique needs or high cost of ownership. This then results in abandonment and shelter surrenders in the months following the holiday. While some shelters do have the capability to house rabbits, shelter life is not ideal for these timid prey animals. While rabbits are the third-most abandoned pet, they are also considered exotics, with specialized needs that not many shelters have the resources readily available to properly support.

Enter Bunny Buddies. Since 1997, this volunteer organization has dedicated its time to rescuing, fostering, and adopting house rabbits in need, while educating the community about their care, health, and behaviors. Structured as a network of fosters, Bunny Buddies houses rescued rabbits in approved homes where they are safe and well cared for until they can be adopted. Interested in adopting or volunteering yourself? Read on to learn how the team operates and processes adoption

Melanie O'Neill Bunny Buddies BunnyBuddies.org

applications to ensure their fosters find the perfect furever home.

INTAKE AND SURRENDERS

The hardest part of any rescue effort is processing surrender requests. Due to limited capacity in their foster network, Bunny Buddies prioritizes specialty cases such as life-or-death situations, urgent medical needs, or extreme behavioral issues. For rehoming of healthy animals, Bunny Buddies first refers these requests to local partner shelters that have proper experience. If the incoming request can be resolved by offering advice or alternative solutions to current issues, Bunny Buddies tries to educate and prevent the surrender whenever possible. “Oftentimes, new rabbit owners are simply unaware of the behavioral impact spaying and neutering can have,” says Shawn O’Neill. As the current Board President, he manages intake for the rescue. “Spaying/neutering is the most essential step to improving the happiness and long-term health of rabbits — and is a priority for our organization.”

FOSTER PLACEMENT AND MEDICAL CARE

Once a rabbit has been approved for intake, Bunny Buddies then matches the animal with a foster home in their system that can provide proper care. Bunny Buddies has a variety of skilled fosters: some who have handled specialized medical

issues (daily medications, wound cleaning, etc.) and others who have experience in helping improve behaviors that would otherwise make it difficult for these rabbits to be adopted. While in foster care, all rabbits receive medical exams and microchips through one of the organization’s partner vet clinics. Intact rabbits are spayed/neutered and monitored throughout recovery. Any special needs rabbits are provided additional care and treatment, as required.

APPLY TO ADOPT

Bunny Buddies has a thorough adoption process, designed to ensure that their rabbits are going to knowledgeable, capable homes with a clear understanding of the animal’s needs — and the 10-year commitment. For example, it’s crucial that rabbits are not be housed in outdoor hutches or locked away in cages. These enclosures do not provide adult animals with efficient space to get proper exercise or adequate socialization. Bunny Buddies requires a minimum of 16 sq. ft. for the rabbit’s “home

All photos are courtesy of Robin Joy and Trish Badger.

"SPAYING/NEUTERING IS THE MOST ESSENTIAL STEP TO IMPROVING THE HAPPINESS AND LONG-TERM HEALTH OF RABBITS."

– SHAWN O'NEILL, BOARD PRESIDENT

base,” whether they are to “free-roam” in the home or be confined to that set area when unsupervised. There are many other aspects that the dedicated adoption coordinator covers with applicants: specific personality traits, ensuring a balanced diet, and reviewing general health information, to name a few. These conversations ensure that the rabbits find the best match for their individual needs in their new families!

Bunny Buddies strives to improve the lives of all Houston-area rabbits. This involves partnering with other rescues and local shelters, such as Citizens for Animal Protection (CAP) in Katy, to provide guidance in unique situations or retrieve buns that might not meet their criteria for a standard adoption. Bunny Buddies also seeks to educate the public and make rabbit knowledge available for all. Each quarter, Bunny Buddies hosts events at CAP, where an education station is ready for those interested in learning more. Inquire today if you’d like the team to speak at a private event or school function about their mission.

It's important to note that Bunny Buddies is currently a 100% volunteerrun organization and is working toward larger goals such as full-time staff and its very own shelter facility. If you are interested in donating or becoming a sponsor, you can contact info@bunnybuddies.org to get involved and help grow this wonderful organization.

Learn more about them online at BunnyBuddies.org or via social media @bunnybuddieshouston (Instagram and Facebook).

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Houston's Waugh Bridge Bats

Ecology On Display For Those Inclined To Enjoy It

While looking at a 17th century Balthasar painting, one could look at it for the first time twice. Once by standing from afar and one nearby. From afar, you see the ornate designed vase, the bouquet of radiant flowers ranging from roses to tulips and lilies along with the table it sits on. Then you take a step forward. You begin to see life. The beetle that scuttles across the leaves, the caterpillar inching its way up a lilac, a rose petal floating in suspense between lying on the floor and being attached to its origin, a small spider from its web waiting for its next meal. You are spectating the true testimony to life, slowly breathing the air that the flowers in the painting gave us. Just like these paintings, you also get to witness the Waugh Bat Bridge for the first time twice.

Every evening Houstonians visit the bridge on the grassy hill to watch the bats emerge into the night as they consume 3 tons of insects making them one of the

Jacob Callie Alpha Beta Productions

world’s greatest animals for insect control. But have you ever stepped in closer to see just how important these flying mammals are to the ecology of Houston?

For those who show up early, they will notice that the bats vocalizing becomes louder in volume. Slowly their heads will crown the cracks underneath the bridge checking for safety before the emergence. Yellow-crowned night herons take note of this and will roost in the nearby trees

swooping into the cracks using their narrow sharp beak to quickly scoop out any bats cresting the surface that are securing the safety of the colony. The herons successfully fly away as the bat’s final act of survival will be erratically flapping its wings stretched out of the bird’s mouth as its body is held tightly inside the beak making for a ghastly site to witness.

Being a crepuscular creature, if you are lucky, the bayou will gift you the experi-

Photo By Pam Ashley Photography

ence of witnessing river otters. Along the banks you may find these aquatic mammals swimming in and out of the water disappearing into the tall grass. And lastly, above, my favorite are the hawks. They understand time better than a watch containing two dead batteries. The hawks will perch on tree branches and make a quick decision before flying to another branch across the water ensuring an accurate location that will secure them a catch. Multiple hawks will be doing the same as they methodically place themselves in the bats’ route making for an easy meal.

As I quote Daniel Quinn’s book, “Ishmael: An Adventure of the Mind and Spirit”, “No one species shall make the life of the world its own...The world was not made for any one species.” In other words, these vibrant connections between the flora and fauna is what creates a balanced ecosystem. You see the hawks, you begin to hear the trumpets sirening, the herons, you hear the sound of the timpani drums, the otters, the oboe, along with the other animals which lie beneath, the bassoon, piccolo, the flute, and lastly, the bats are a wave of violins in the style of Mussorgsky. This is a symphony of wildlife. Animals, planet Earth’s first musicians with Mother Nature

being their maestro.

Animals will always surpass us in that they’ll teach us more about living than we can ever be able to teach them. We too can create a symphony if we learn to become in tune with each other. Becom-

ing spiritually attuned with the universe, together we can sing in harmony with the world. So I now ask, how many times have you seen the Waugh Bat Bridge for the first time?

Photo By Pam Ashley Photography

Photo By Pam Ashley Photography

Conservation Corner

Plight

of the Pangolin: Saving One of the Most Threatened Species

By: Jessica Reyes HoustonZoo.org

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. This issue, we highlight pangolins. Look for other upcoming conservation stories so that you too can help save a species.

There are many amazing creatures around the world that are in danger of extinction like monarch butterflies, red pandas, and sea turtles. But there is one small creature that is overlooked, the pangolin. Unknown to many, the pangolin is a remarkable mammal that looks a lot like a cross between an anteater and an armadillo when, in fact, they are their own species.

Pangolins are bipedal mammals known for the dragon-like scales that cover their entire body. When threatened, pangolins roll into a ball and use their scales as protection. They can also thrash their tail and cut a predator with the sharp edges of their scales. As a mem-

ber of the myrmecophagous family, most of their diet comes from ants and termites. These nocturnal creatures are timid and usually have one offspring a year. They are primarily solitary making it hard to know exactly how many wild pangolins there are.

HOUSTON ZOO’S WILDLIFE WARRIOR: DR. ELISA PANJANG

In the summer of 2017, Dr. Elisa Panjang was named Houston Zoo’s Wildlife Warrior Award recipient for her inspiring conservation work with Danau Girang Field Center (DGFC) in Malaysia. Dr. Panjang was inspired to help save

pangolins from her own backyard as a young girl when she spotted a Sunda pangolin in a tree. She later received her Ph.D from Cardiff University in Wales, U.K., with a research focus on the Sunda pangolin’s movement ecology and behavioral patterns within the environmental landscape of the Malaysian district of Kinabatangan.

In her ten years (and counting!) of researching Sunda pangolins, Dr. Panjang has been an active participant in several conservational programs. In 2018, at the Danau Girang Field Centre she served as a Pangolin Conservation Officer, facilitating a pangolin education camp to a Malaysian primary school

Photos By: Houston Zoo

near the Kinabatangan River. In October 2022, Dr. Elisa Panjang founded non-governmental organization (NGO) called Pangolin Aware. She became an official National Geographic Explorer in February 2023 upon receiving a grant to research “whole genome re-sequencing of Sunda pangolins” in Malaysia. This grant is still active, and her research project is ongoing until March 31, 2024. Today, with more than a decade of experience in pangolin conservation, Dr. Elisa

Panjang continues to dedicate her career to the preservation of these magnificent and elusive creatures.

HOW CAN YOU SAVE PANGOLINS IN THE WILD?

When guests purchase a conservation bracelet during their Zoo visit all proceeds go toward supporting the Wildlife Warrior program which provides grants and scholarship opportu-

nities to the Zoo’s conservation partners.

Along with the conservation bracelet sales, a portion of all Zoo ticket sales support saving animals in the wild, like the pangolins. Houston Zoo has rescued and rehabilitated 40 pangolins in Borneo, as well as equipping 12 of them with GPS and radio tracking devices. These devices allow a greater understanding of this species and give insight on how to protect them better.

“The love for all living creatures is the most noble attribute of man.”

~ Charles Darwin

Why I Love Animals

is a monthly feature written by our Editor with the mission of educating the public on the value of all species.

By: Michelle Mantor

WHY I LOVE ANIMALS

At first, the capybaras are not sure about me and keep their distance.

Although the capybara is often referred to as a “giant rodent”, I think this description steals the dignity of these cool creatures! After meeting the group at the Houston Zoo, I was surprised by how social they are. While setting up for the photo, they kept their distance at first but once a little lettuce was spread near me, they began inching over and exploring, including sniffing my shoes. They became comfortable with my presence, so much so that one of the larger adults used my leg to lean on while eating LOL! It was a great experience to be so close to the group and really see every detail of their physical appearance. The group includes:

» Poppy (Mom) and Rio (Dad), both 4 years old and both weigh between 110-120 lbs.

» The older group of siblings are the "pastry" litter: Strudel, Biscuit, and Bagel who are 1 year old and they weigh between 90-100 lbs.

» The younger group of siblings are the "potato" litter: Russet, Tator Tot, and Spud. They’re about 5 months old and weigh 30-40 lbs.

The capybara (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris) is a semiaquatic animal resembling a giant guinea pig. They are commonly called “water hogs” in South America or “Orinoca”, and they are the world’s largest living rodents.

As the name suggests, they are usually found near swamps and water holes. They are excellent swimmers with their eyes and ears positioned

high on the head, so they can see and hear easily while swimming. Capybaras also have webbing between their fingers and toes, which helps them paddle. When frightened, they can remain underwater for several minutes. As soon as I got up close to the group at the zoo, the first thing I noticed that surprised me was the webbed feet. I had expected them to have a foot more like a rat.

Breeding among capybaras is throughout the year, but mating peaks just before the rainy season, the time of which varies between regions. Gestation lasts around 150 days and there is usually only one litter each year, typically with four young to a litter.

A family group includes one adult male and one or more females, with their young. Bachelor males often band together in separate groups. Although they travel quite a distance during the day for food, they nearly always return to the same spot at night.

The capybara is active in the morning and evening, wallowing in mudholes and shallow water during the hottest part of the day. In areas frequented by humans, it is reported that they become nocturnal. If safety seems to be an issue, they will swim with only their nostrils, eyes, and ears exposed or hide in floating vegetation.

As a species, capybaras are not endangered. They are classified as “least concern”, however, in some parts, they have experienced loss of habitat and the wild population is shrinking.

On your next visit, be sure to visit the capybaras in the Zoo’s South America’s Pantanal exhibit. They are really fun to observe! Opening in 2020, Pantanal allows guests to explore the tropical wetlands of Brazil, where you’ll find lush habitats and many cool animals including giant anteaters, tapirs and more. To plan your visit, check out their website at HoustonZoo.org for more information.

Eventually, with a little lettuce and time, they get comfortable enough to come close (and even sniff me).

Not only did the capybaras get comfortable around me, but one of the adults decided to lean on my leg for support while he ate...that was cool!

The Cat Doctor is In

Keeping your cat healthy is important but did you know they benefit your health too? Research has found that cat owners have a lower risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

A COLORFUL WAY TO REDUCE PET ODOR

Pet parents will appreciate the award-winning Colorfil, the NASAapproved air filter for pet odors. Not only does it remove small particles for better health, but it can also eliminate odor and magically change from hot pink to yellow to show when a new one is needed. No spraying of chemicals - we know our kitties don’t like that and owners don’t like stinky litter boxes, so everyone wins!

Find yours at ColorFil.com.

BYE BYE PLAQUE

ProDen PlaqueOff Powder by Swedencare helps eliminate bad breath and tartar, which are two problems that can seem daunting to rectify for pet owners. The powder makes it easy to control bad breath and prevents long-term issues down the road. Simply sprinkle on wet or dry food once daily. Available at Amazon.com.

URINARY HEALTH

Tasty chews from Under The Weather offer support to the urinary tract, utilizing N-acetyl glucosamine to assist with normal pH balance, as well as D-mannose and cranberry extract. Urinary tract issues are common in kitties so be sure to help your fur baby feel their best with supportive products! Shop online at HollywoodFeed.com or find one of their Houston area stores on the website.