Family Pets

PetsFAMILY

One recent afternoon, the Donahoe family welcomed me into their home. I had come to meet Bailey, Roux, and Wrigley, three adorable dogs who could not be more different. When I rang the doorbell, a crescendo of barks echoed from behind the door. I knew I was at the right house. When the door opened, I was greeted by the very cute, fury trio accompanied by the ever-adorable Donahoes: Danny, Melissa, Casey, Cassidy, Cohen, and Cameran. It didn’t take long to get acquainted with this crew and learn all about this sports-loving family and their faithful furry companions. In 2009, the first pup to become a part of the Donahoe family was Wrigley. A chocolate and beagle mix, the sweet old girl shows her age in her beautiful graying face. Wrigley is short like a beagle but has the coloring and head structure of a lab. Knowing that she was half beagle, Danny and Melissa assumed she would be a howler, but this little lady has no interest in howling or even barking. Ms. Wrigley is a classic beauty who has little to say, which is not necessarily a bad thing in the Donahoe house where almost everyone has lots to say! If you are wondering about her name, you likely guessed correctly in that she is named after Wrigley Field. The Donahoes are big baseball fans, and the Chicago Cubs are their team! The mere mention of baseball, or sports in general, brought about enthusiastic banter about their favorite teams. Casey led the conversation with his vast knowledge of all things sports: current, and past. I learned real fast that sports are a very important part of the Donahoe’s world. Keeping this in mind, and the fact that her husband is a huge Chicago Cubs fan, Melissa agreed to name their new baby Wrigley, but only, she said, “if her middle name can be Field.” At 13, Ms. Wrigley Field Donahoe is the O.G. of this fury trio. The second dog to become a member of the Donahoe family was Roux, aka Rouxster. The only male dog, Roux comes in a petite package but tries to be the dominant, big man. Melissa explains that his effort is a complete fail because in reality he is the neediest of the three and wants all the attention. Roux, another rescue, is a mix of Maltese, Bichon, and Chihuahua. He has the physical features of the Maltese and Bichon, with red soft fur and a fluffy tail. Clearly the chihuahua comes out when he tries to be the ‘big man’ but fails miserably and melts into a needy puddle of love. Finally, the most recent pup to join the Donahoe crew arrived last August at about 8 weeks old. Bailey, or Bailey’s Irish Cream, as Danny likes to call her, is an Irish Wolf Hound. “Why an Irish Wolf Hound?” I asked. Danny explained that it is a breed that he always wanted. When Bailey arrived, she was pretty small, but now, she weighs 195 pounds and is a lanky goofball of pure love who could easily be compared to Marmaduke. With her wiry hair and skinny but deadly tail, she towers over Wrigley and Roux. Bailey is completely unaware that she is so large and wants to be in the middle of all the action with the four Donahoe children. Like all Irish Wolf Hounds, she is friendly and relaxed, which was an absolute must for that third Donahoe dog. Technically, Bailey is Danny’s dog, but don’t tell that to four-year-old Cameran who is often snuggled up with Bailey on the sofa. It is not unusual to find this big goofy girl in a heap on the sofa with Cohen or Cassidy as they relax after a long school day. Being a giant snuggle bug may well be what Bailey does best. One thing is certain when it comes to Wrigley, Roux, and Bailey. These three pups love their people - one and all. The four Donahoe children range in age from four years to ten years. They are typical children who are busy and active, even sometimes rambunctious. I was amazed to see that the three dogs, even geriatric Wrigley, patiently and, even enthusiastically, join right in with the kids. Each dog is extremely gentle, even when in a serious neck grip of love from a little person. The best description of their interaction is to compare it to that of siblings. When I left the Donahoe house that day, I reflected on my short visit with a truly warm and loving feeling. I came to realize that Danny and Melissa have seven children, really. There are seven Donahoe siblings that are all very different. In addition to the seven children, include a wonderful and loving mom and dad, and when you put them all together, they sure are one beautiful family!

Dr. G.PET TIPS BY

VetNaturally

It’s almost fall, y’all…. And here are some pet tips for the upcoming months.

1. There is a fungus among us… ‘Tis the season for mushrooms! They will soon start to pop up on the front lawn, back yard, and along walking routes. While most mushrooms are safe for ingestion, others can be highly toxic. Like me, you probably aren’t a mushroom identification expert, so just say, “no” to all mushrooms your pet encounters. It’s not worth the risk, so pay attention during walks and when your dog is sniffing around in areas of higher grass. If you think your dog has ingested a mushroom or any other toxic substance, call the ASPCA animal poison control center at 888-426-4435. There are board-certified toxicologists on call ready to help you with any poison event.

2. Wildlife alert It’s almost hibernation time! This means that wild animals, like skunks and snakes, are out and about, busily preparing for their winter nap. If you are traveling in wooded areas, keep watch for small animals or reptiles and keep your respectful distance. Most wildlife will scamper or slither away when you and Fido approach.

3. Let there be light Days will soon get shorter, so make a plan for how you will be walking your pet with less daylight. In Louisiana, this is a welcome event with respect to the heat index. However, we still have to plan for the dangers night walking will bring. It’s hard for a car driving by to always see a dog. I recommend reflective collars, reflective vests and even wearing reflective gear on your person.

4. What about the joints? Often pets with arthritis, or joint disease, experience more discomfort during cooler temperatures. If you see any limping or decreased desire to go on walks, it’s time for a veterinary check-up. At VetNaturally, we have many holistic options for joint and arthritis support, including omegas, Assisi loops, Dasuquin, massage, and other holistic remedies for joints. In fact, if you go to our Instagram, and click the link tree at the top, you can download our free guide to helping your old dog thrive. This FREE download has our top tips and tricks to keeping your dog healthy and moving well.

5. Check for ticks Did you know that ticks can go without food for up to TWO years sitting on a blade of grass waiting for you or your dog to be its host? They thrive in damp environments. Most ticks will accumulate on the face, ears, or armpit areas, but check everywhere after outdoor play. There are wonderful natural tick repellents that contain essential oils. We like the brand Pure and Natural for these convenient sprays and wipes. Just a little wipe down before a walk, and you can help deter ticks from attaching.

ASHLEY C. GEOGHEGAN

DVM, CVA, CVFT, CVCH, CCRT, CCRV

Holistic Veterinary Care For Your Pet

Acupuncture • Canine Rehabilitation • Medical Skin Spa Surgery • Dentistry • Digital Radiology

Why Do Pets Need VetNaturally?

We offer holistic, full-service treatments for pets. We have two full-time doctors who are extremely passionate about the integrative approach to total pet wellness. If your pet is family, and your goal is for your pet to live his longest and healthiest life, come see what we do here!

What Sets Our Practice Apart?

VetNaturally is more than a veterinary practice - it’s my life mission. Our team works diligently to educate owners in person and online. We want our patients to thrive. In addition to full service Eastern (alternative) and Western (conventional) care, we offer a state-of-the-art rehabilitation program. It makes my heart happy to see the number of senior dogs living their best lives at 16+ years old because of what we do here.

CHRISTIAN PELLEGRIN

DVM, FEAR-FREE CERTIFIED TM CVA Candidate 2022