Lancaster County Pet Winter 2018 by Lancaster County Pet

in Chester County, PA

WINTER 2018 The Source for Pet and Animal Information in Lancaster County, PA

The Source for Pet and Animal Information in Lancaster County, PA

Assistance Dogs

+ Pocket Pets + Doberman Pinscher Rescue of PA, Inc.

plus Resources Events Pet Services and more...

COMING SOON 2018 LANCASTER’S NEW DEDICATED PET CREMATORY. AN ON-SITE PET CREMATORY ENSURES YOUR BELOVED PET NEVER LEAVES OUR CARE.

LEE, CHAD AND OTIS

• Separate or Communal cremation at a competitive price • Pet Burials • Keepsake memorial jewelry that holds a small portion of your beloved pet • Pet urns, caskets, and we capture the paw and nose prints for Buddies keepsakes

HEART PAW

PAW RING

Lititz Pike • 3110 Lititz Pike • 717-560-5100 • www.SnyderFuneralHome.com PAW KEEPSAKE (holds ashes)

BUDDIETAGS KEEPSAKES

+ CONTENTS

WINTER 2018

Rescue Highlight

FEATURES DEPARTMENTS

Assistance Animals Learn how to distinguish the varying types of assistance animals. Whether a service dog, emotional support animal, or therapy animal, they all play different and important roles in our community.

Winter Chills

Tips Quick facts about animals, including Libre’s Law and homemade hamster toys

BY SAMANTHA ST.CLAIR

Letter From the Editor

Events Local events from January-March, 2018

Pocket Pets Review the different small mammal species available as pets and learn if one of them could be your perfect furry friend. BY SAMANTHA ST.CLAIR

The Good Stuﬀ Our favorite products from around Lancaster

Pet Lover Dudly, a miracle horse

Community Interview with Liz Martin, owner of Martin Insurance Agency

Meet the Breed A rare breed, the Xoloitzcuintli

Seasonal Winter tips and facts

Rescue Highlight Doberman Pinscher Rescue of PA, Inc.

Fun Focus Trick Rats

Services Laser Procedures

Grooming CS Pet Care LLC

Health Fear Free Office Visits

Expert Insights Pet Dental Questions

16 Pocket Pets

Special Pet Hospice

Pet Services Information on various local businesses

Around Lancaster Winter pet photos provided by LCP readers

Information Pet Resources and contact information WINTER 2017

The Source for Pet and Animal Information in Lancaster County, PA

Dog Boarding, Daycare, Training and Spa Since 2000 Wendy has brought quality training classes and daycare services to dog owners in Lancaster County. Our new location has allowed us to expand our successful day care program by oﬀering both indoor and outdoor play, swimming, activities such as barn hunt, and the ability to also care for your dog while you are away.

Publisher Cecilia Cove, LLC Editor in Chief Samantha St.Clair Art Director Sally Heineman Sales Helen Venesky Photographers Samantha St.Clair, Helen Venesky Contributors Dr. Grace Amicone, Carrie Cammauf, Diane Hodges, DVM, Dr. Bill Lewis, Joyce Walton Published by Cecilia Cove, LLC PO Box 44, Marietta, PA 17547 717.406.7811 • lancastercountypet.com

Advertising inquiries email: sales@lancastercountypet.com

Comments and Feedback:

Our facility is climate controlled and oﬀers a full sized obedience ring with rubber ﬂooring for comfort and safety.

(717)509-5652 | www.dogsensepa.com

2 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

editor@lancastercountypet.com

“SUPPORT AND BUY LOCAL” Please continue to support our advertisers so that we can provide Lancaster County with quality articles and information speciﬁcally about local people and businesses. It’s their support that allows LCP magazine to be a freely distributed publication. LCP (Lancaster County Pet) is published quarterly and distributed throughout Lancaster County, PA. All content of this magazine, including design, photos and editorial content is Copyright©2018 by Cecilia Cove, LLC. All rights reserved. No reproduction of printed materials is permitted without the written consent of the Publisher. LCP is a registered trademark of Cecilia Cove, LLC.

+ E D I TO R’S L ET T E R

WINTER CHILLS I HAVE HEARD MULTIPLE SOURCES ESTIMATE THAT THIS WINTER WILL BE A bad one. I am one of those people who, despite the thought of the cold, am looking forward to the sight of frosted tree branches and the glistening effect of snow covering the ground. There is no prettier scenery in my opinion - especially when adding a few pets romping in the snow! When it comes to animals being outside in the winter, there are concerns. In the wake of a winter anticipated to be long and cold, I am sure most of our readers have heard of the segment of Libre’s Law that will further protect dogs from freezing cold temperatures. It’s a big milestone in the journey of better living conditions for animals as it prevents dogs from being tethered in extreme conditions for longer than 30 minutes. This means that this year if you see a dog who is living outside on a rope or chain, you may be able to get that dog some relief and prevent them from freezing, frostbite, and other adverse effects of winter weather by contacting a local humane officer. Just because cold weather has some consequences doesn’t mean it can’t be enjoyed. Pet parents should take advantage of playing in the snow with their dog or walking them on a chilly day. As soon as my dog sees snow falling, he is at the back door begging to go outside to roll in the fresh flakes. He is such a joy to watch, but the older he gets the less he can tolerate the cold. And that’s the key to winter weather be alert to how your dog is responding to it. If your pet is shivering or lifting their feet, be sure to adorn them with proper clothing the next time they go out and keep time outside to a minimum. If their paw pads are getting cracked and irritated, find a balm to soothe them and try out doggy booties. If they are begging to go back in the house, don’t worry about getting that perfect winter snapshot on your phone - listen to their needs. If we take the time out to pay attention to what our pets are telling us, we can all enjoy the winter weather a little more. As much as I am a fan of playing in the snow with my dog, I am also a fan of curling up under a blanket with him. When you and your pet are warming up in front of the fireplace this winter, I hope you are entertained by the many articles we have provided in LCP this edition. We touch on topics such as assistance animals, pocket pets, and miracle horses. We also present our regular rescue highlight and dive into expert advice in the medical field. Please stay toasty, follow your instincts, and have a safe and fun winter season.

Samantha St.Clair editor@lancastercountypet.com

THROUGHOUT OUR MAGAZINE YOU’LL FIND INFORMATIVE BUBBLES.

HELPFUL TIP

HAPPY RABBITS PRACTICE A CUTE BEHAVIOR KNOWN AS A “BINKY”. THEY JUMP UP IN THE AIR AND TWIST AND SPIN AROUND!

WINTER 2017

+ TIPS

LIBRE’S LAW

TipS to Tails

(ANIMAL ABUSE STATUTE OVERHAUL) In August 2017, Pennsylvania enacted Libre’s Law, which protects dogs against harsh outdoor conditions and makes penalties more severe for animal owners who violate the law. Here’s what you need to know:

Quick Facts About Pets

n Dogs may be left tethered outside for no more than 30 minutes in temperatures 90°F or above, and 32°F or below.

Did You Know?

n A possible ﬁne or jail sentence of six months to seven years depending on the severity of the case may be issued to the neglectful owner. n The dog may be tethered for a maximum of nine hours over a 24 hour period. n The dog must have appropriate access to shade and water while outside.

Hamster Happiness Craft time! Keep empty toilet paper rolls and tissue boxes on hand when you have a busy hamster ready to shred, hide, or just play! Kids will have fun decorating the rolls and boxes for their little furry friends.

Science says dogs are smarter than cats. A study led by a Vanderbilt University professor counted for the ﬁrst time the number of cortical neurons in the brains of cats and dogs and found that dogs possess nearly double the amount of neurons compared to cats. Neurons are associated with thinking, planning, and complex behavior. They found cats have 250 million neurons while dogs have 530 million.

P 4 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

n Before Libre’s Law was enacted, the punishment for cruelty to horses was a summary oﬀense, like a traﬃc violation. The penalty has been upgraded to equal crimes against dogs and cats. n The law was named for Libre, a Boston Terrier puppy who was rescued from a puppy mill near Quarryville, Lancaster County. Libre, close to death, was living in deplorable conditions and was covered in maggots. He’s now a happy, healthy dog living in Central Pennsylvania. (governor.pa.gov)

Tee Up for a Great Meal Have a speedy eater? Place a golf ball in your cat’s food bowl. Many cats tend to eat fast and end up vomiting up their food. As a kitten, your adult cat might have had to ﬁght for his food. Whether the food source was milk from his mom or kitten food, he had to get his nutrition fast before fellow litter mates pushed their way in. By eating too fast and not properly digesting his food, your feline’s tummy might upset him, resulting in quite a mess, an unhappy and still hungry cat, and an ongoing problem. By adding a golf ball to his bowl, he’ll have to take his time as he eats the food around the ball, resulting in better digestion and a happy cat. NOTE: Use a tennis ball in a dog’s food bowl instead of a golf ball, since the dog might mistakenly ingest the golf ball.

WINTER 2017

NEW ANIMAL SHELTER IN COLUMBIA SEEKS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR A new animal shelter is coming to Columbia! The Harold and Judy McKonly Family Foundation was established by the late Judy McKonly, who passed away in August of this year. Judy’s vision was to open the best cat shelter (with some dogs) in the country and hopefully this dream will be fulfilled in 2018. Her son Mike McKonly and business partner, Keith Lutz, purchased the 8,000 square foot Vigilant Fire Hall on 10th St. in Columbia (known as the Viggie’s to Columbians) in 2016 with that repurpose use in mind. Zoning has been approved, architectural drawings have been rendered and the next thing we need is a “qualified, charismatic Executive Director with a heart for animals who can participate in this project from the beginning.” Qualified applicants should have strong management experience (preferably in pet rescue), excellent organizational skills, past success with dealing with boards, with strong marketing, public relations, fundraising and grant writing skills. They will be responsible for developing and maintaining sound financial practices seeing that the organization operates within budget guidelines. Most importantly, they must be mission driven and self-directed, with a positive attitude and a passion and heart for helping animals.

Qualified applicants can send their resume and cover letters to

patty@kleen-ritecorp.com

6 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

+ EVENTS

MEET & GREET DVGRR

Events JANUARY

FEBRUARY

6-13

102ND PENNSYLVANIA FARM SHOW PA FARM SHOW PA Farm Show Complex 2300 North Cameron Street, Harrisburg farmshow.pa.gov

PENN ANIMAL CANINE BLOOD BANK KPETS That Fish Place - That Pet Place 237 Centerville Road, Lancaster bloodbank@kpets.org to reserve your appointment

REEF CONSERVATION SOCIETY WINTER FRAG SWAP ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT RCS That Fish Place - That Pet Place 237 Centerville Road, Lancaster reefcon.org

TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES BRUNCH FUNDRAISER DELAWARE VALLEY GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE Ten Thousand Villages 240 North Reading Road, Ephrata dvgrr.org

SERVICE, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT & THERAPY DOGS PHOENIX ASSISTANCE DOGS & KPETS That Fish Place - That Pet Place 237 Centerville Road, Lancaster thatpetplace.com

MEET & GREET DELAWARE VALLEY GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE Thomas and Marian Ludwig Adoption & Activity Center at DVGRR's Golden Gateway, 60 Vera Cruz Road, Reinholds dvgrr.org

LOVE YOUR PET DAY That Fish Place - That Pet Place 237 Centerville Road, Lancaster thatpetplace.com

READING WITH GRACIE THE DOG! Lancaster Public Library 125 North Duke Street, Lancaster

PHOENIX ASSISTANCE DOGS BASKET BINGO PHOENIX ASSISTANCE DOGS Amvets Post 136 614 South State Street, Ephrata padcentral.org

14-18

THE CELTIC CLASSIC LANCASTER KENNEL CLUB, INC. York Expo Center 334 Carlisle Avenue, York lancasterkennelclub.org

TAILS OF COMFORT DINNER BRETHREN VILLAGE, LANCASTER 3001 Lititz Pike, Lancaster kpets.org

LEO'S 8TH ANNUAL BIRTHDAY BASH PET PANTRY OF LANCASTER COUNTY Natural Stoneworks 455 Ice Avenue, Lancaster petpantrylc.org

BLUE MOON WOLF SANCTUARY OF PA 465 Speedwell Forge Road, Lititz wolfsanctuarypa.org

MARCH

ONGOING

$5 NAIL TRIM DAY // 1ST SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH KEYSTONE PET PLACE 100 West Main Street, Mount Joy keystonepetplace.com

FUR LOVE GALA 2ND CHANCE 4 LIFE RESCUE Acorn Farms 3141 Mount Joy Road, Mount Joy 2ndchance4liferescue.org

4TH ANNUAL SPRING BARKER BINGO A TAIL TO TELL Fairview Township Fire Hall 422 Locust Road, New Cumberland atailtotell.com/barker-bingo

Have a 2018 SPRING Event? Contact:

events@lancastercountypet.com For additional events, please visit us at lancastercountypet.com Events are subject to change. Please contact event host.

WINTER 2017

Assistance Animals UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN SERVICE, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT, AND THERAPY ANIMALS

E ALL FORM UNIQUE BONDS WITH OUR PETS, and there is no denying they bring immeasurable joy to our lives. While household pets are exceptional family members, certain animals go above and beyond companionship. These animals come with three different titles: service dogs, emotional support animals, and therapy animals. Animals under each of these categories perform speciﬁc and varying roles in people’s lives and are becoming more prevalent in our society. As such, it is important to realize the difference between these animals, how to interact with them, what legal rights each of them has, and how an animal qualiﬁes for each title so you can better understand your rights as well as the rights of others.

Phoenix Assistance Dogs Phoenix Assistance Dogs (PAD) is a Central Pennsylvania assistance dog training program founded in 2009 by Linzey Zoccola. At age two, Linzey was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy, leading her to obtain a service dog at age 16. “My ﬁrst service dog was a yellow Labrador named Winston,” Linzey said. “I have always had a great group of friends and family who would do anything for me, but getting a service dog lifted a weight off me by giving me a sense of freedom I hadn’t had before. Winston profoundly impacted my life, and I started PAD to give other people that same feeling.” PAD provides dogs that assist people with varying disabilities. Their jobs include medical response, physical assistance, hearing alert, and psychiatric relief. While PAD focuses on training service dogs, they have graduated dogs into emotional support and therapy roles. “Service dogs, emotional support animals, and therapy animals are all paramount in our society for different reasons,” Linzey said. “We have dogs who are not cut out for service work, but they make wonderful emotional support or therapy animals, and they still reach the end goal of enhancing lives.”

Service Dogs A service dog is trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities. Examples of tasks include alerting a person who is deaf to sounds, retrieving items, providing balance support, and pushing buttons for people with physical disabilities, or alerting handlers to medical conditions such as seizures and blood pressure changes. Additionally, dogs can provide psychiatric assistance. Canines trained for handlers with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for example, perform tasks

written by Samantha St.Clair | photographed by Samantha St.Clair

WINTER 2017

PAD Zero (left), PAD Riley (top right), PAD Drogon (bottom right), and PAD Wilson (bottom) are all service dogs in training.

“THESE ANIMALS COME WITH THREE DIFFERENT TITLES: SERVICE DOGS, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS, AND THERAPY ANIMALS”

such as locating exits to guide their people away from stressful situations. “We train every service dog for their future handler’s speciﬁc needs,” Linzey explained. Training is extensive and includes an initial two years of daily training as well as ongoing training by their owner. While the ADA does not require certiﬁcation for service animals, they do have guidelines. For example, while service dogs are granted permission to enter spaces accessible to the public, there are limitations. “It is important for businesses to know their rights when it comes to service animals so they are not negatively affected by people who do not have a trained service dog,” Linzey said. They are allowed to ask two questions: is the dog a service animal and what tasks has the dog been trained to perform. They cannot ask about the

10 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

person’s disability, require medical documentation, or ask for the dog to perform tasks. If a handler does not have control over their dog, they may be asked to leave for the safety of all. “You can tell when a dog is properly trained for service work,” Linzey said. “A lot of time goes into them to ensure they are providing their handler with the beneﬁts they need.” Properly trained service dogs are exemplary members of society who uplift and grant freedom to their handlers. Because they are working dogs, it is important for people not to disrupt them. Approaching, petting, talking to, and otherwise distracting a service dog can inhibit their ability to perform their job. Admire them from afar, let them work, and remember that they are there for their handler’s best interest.

Emotional Support Animals Often confused with service dogs are emotional support animals. ESAs are companion animals that a physician feels a person needs for psychological comfort and support. They do not go through any

formal training. A doctor’s note is necessary in order to consider an animal an ESA, and with that note there are some legal beneﬁts. Under the Fair Housing Act, no one can be denied rent due to their ESA. Also, under the Air Carriers Access Act, ESAs are allowed to travel in the cabin of a plane with their owner without a fee. Outside of these accommodations, ESAs have no further rights beyond those of pets, including no legal access to public places where animals are not normally allowed. “Emotional support animals are fundamental in providing people with therapeutic

beneﬁts in their own home,” Linzey said. “They provide companionship for people with conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress, all of which can be debilitating without proper support systems.” While service animals are limited to dogs and sometimes miniature horses, ESAs can be any animal. Cats, rabbits, or even ﬁsh have become registered ESAs. If the animal provides their owner with comfort and support, they are doing their job.

Therapy Animals While you are asked to ignore service dogs, you can appreciate that there are therapy animals out there. Opposite of service dogs and ESAs who assist one person, therapy animals are trained to bring happiness and joy to groups of people. These companions go through extensive training to be permitted into the environments they visit. “Therapy animals do not have any special legal rights. They must be invited to wherever they perform their job, be it a hospital, school, or nursing home,” Linzey said. “Usually whichever facility they are to work in will require certiﬁcation through a therapy animal organization with liability insurance.” Another factor that sets therapy animals apart is their temperament. Service dogs, who are trained to work one on one with someone, would most likely get stressed in the busy environments that therapy animals frequent. While service dogs are conditioned to look at their owner when a stranger approaches, therapy dogs are rewarded for interacting with others. Therapy animals, like ESAs, can be a variety of animals. Dogs, cats, rabbits, horses, and even pigs have all become successful therapy animals. If they can make people smile, they are succeeding. No matter the assistance animal, be it a service dog guiding their handler, an ESA providing comfort to their person, or a therapy animal spreading joy throughout a hospital, they are all vital in our society. You can support assistance animals by further educating yourself or by training a pet for one of these roles! Contact PAD to learn more or see how you can get started in the life changing volunteer role of teaching a service dog: padcentral.org

WINTER 2017

Helping Your Pet Live Long Into Their “Golden Years” Beginning at around age 7, your pet enters his or her senior years. Pets can develop common diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, and cancer. These diseases can go unnoticed therefore, preventive health care is very important. Early detection can help in disease prevention and can minimize suffering. If left undetected, many diseases can put your pet’s health at risk. We can help you understand the common medical conditions that your senior pet faces, and discuss a bloodwork proﬁle that would be best for them. Schedule your pets wellness exam today!

SIGNS TO WATCH FOR:

Discounted Wellness Bloodwork Panels

• Just not acting like themselves • Interacting less often with family • Responding less often or less enthusiastically • Showing changes in activity level • Having difficulty climbing stairs • Drinking more often • Urinating more often • Changing eating patterns • Noticeably gaining or losing weight • Changes in hair coat/skin or grooming habits

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Go to our website to print coupon. Not to be combine with any other new client offers. Limit 1 per client.

find us on facebook

+ THE GOOD STUFF

Our favoriteS

Products from local businesses...

1. NO-HIDE CHEWS

Easy to digest, these chews are 100% free of rawhide and made with the highest quality, human grade ingredients available. McCracken’s Pet Supply and Feed Store 700 North Market Street, Elizabethtown 717.361.8300 • mccrackenspetfoodandsupply.com

2. TETRAFIN PLUS GOLDFISH FLAKES Fish food with a higher protein to fat ratio and additional beneﬁts that still offers the same balanced nutrition of the core formula. That Fish Place - That Pet Place 237 Centerville Road, Lancaster 1-888-THAT-PET • thatpetplace.com

3. KURGO MUCK DOG COLLARS

Stylish, 100% waterproof and forever odor-free, Muck Dog Collars are the perfect solution for dogs who love to explore. Bottle opener included. S, M, L For The Love Of Dog 17 West Market Street, Suite D, Marietta 717.604.1196 • fortheloveofdogpa.com

4. KONG KICKER CAT TOY Appeals to a cat’s instinctive desire to stalk and capture prey. Drake’s Pet Place 1874 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster 717.290.1131 • facebook.com/Drakes-Pet-Place

5. DISNEY “FROZEN” BETTA KIT Includes 0.7 gal tank, lid, background and top stand up decoration. That Fish Place - That Pet Place 237 Centerville Road, Lancaster 1-888-THAT-PET • thatpetplace.com

6. LIFE TROPICLEAN Each bottle of Life is made with a balanced blend of fresh oils to supplement your dog’s food for a life of pure joy. Keystone Pet Place 100 West Main Street, Mount Joy 717.492.0027 • keystonepetplace.com

5 6

WINTER 2017

+ PET LOVER title through North American Western Dressage. Unfortunately, in May of 2015, Dudly suffered his second significant injury while running in his pasture. “My veterinarian discovered he had a deep digital flexor tendon tear in his right front leg. That kind of injury can take them out of riding for good. I was so discouraged when I heard this news because I thought I’d never ride him again.” Denise attended all of Dudly’s medical appointments and never left his side. His veterinarian operated on him to debride the area of the tear and introduce allogenic stem cells from another horse to rebuild the surrounding tissue. “This was only the second time my veterinarian did this operation,” Denise said. Following surgery, he started a slow therapy process. “We began by hand grazing for 10 minutes a day. After about six months I was able to start light riding again. Just going up and down the driveway on him felt amazing.”

Continued therapy, chiropractic care, and specialized farrier work led to Dudly’s full recovery. Continued therapy, chiropractic care, and specialized farrier work led to Dudly’s full recovery. “Even after they told me he was sound I took it easy on him. He was out of competitions for two seasons but it was worth the time. I cannot thank my veterinarian and farrier enough for their hard work and dedication to his recovery. He truly is a miracle horse.”

DEEP DIGITAL FLEXOR TENDON INJURIES RESULT IN HEAT, PAIN, SWELLING, AND LAMENESS.

Dudly

The miracle horse

written by Samantha St.Clair

ANIMALS CONTINUOUSLY provide encouraging examples of perseverance. One local case involves Dudly, a 13 year old double registered paint and quarter horse. Despite multiple serious injuries, he proves that with hope, determination, and a solid support system, anything is possible.

owner Denise explained. “When he retired from reigning, I found him for sale and saw a video of him under saddle. My dad who recently passed is the one who encouraged me to get him, and Dudly is now the love of my life. You can do anything with him. He’s very responsive and forgiving when you make mistakes.”

“As a foal, Dudly broke his hip but went on to become a reigning champion,” his

Denise purchased Dudly in 2013 and went on to end 2014 with a Reserve Champion

14 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

Dudly’s perseverance and strong work ethic led to his successful return to the show ring. Dudly and Denise finished off the year with a Reserve Champion title for the Ranch Horse Series they competed in during the 2017 season. “My advice to anyone dealing with an injured or ill animal is to remain carefully optimistic. I also recommend insurance. Without it, I never would have been able to afford Dudly’s care. Find a vet who is progressive and do independent research so you can ask questions and be the best advocate you can be for your animal. Good outcomes can happen even under terrible circumstances.”

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WINTER 2017 15

Pocket Pets A pocket guide for choosing small mammals written by Samantha St.Clair photographed by Samantha St.Clair

Cute, fuzzy, and unique, “pocket pets” are often overlooked and misunderstood in the pet world. “They have more personality than many people give them credit for,” Stacy Davis, an expert on small pets at That Fish Place - That Pet Place said. “They are generally lower maintenance companions that are just as enjoyable as dogs or cats.” Choosing the right species for your lifestyle is challenging. Small animals have a range of temperaments and care requirements, so which ﬁts your family?

Beginner Hamsters • Gerbils • Rats • Guinea Pigs The easiest to care for, HAMSTERS take up less space, cost less, and do not require as much social time. Spacewise, be cautious as many products marketed for hamsters are not large enough as stand-alone habitats. Commonly thought to be good pets for children, these nocturnal pets are more for teenagers or adults as they are grumpy when woken during daytime hours. Play with them at night, in a safe space on the ground, and you will have a happier companion! More social are GERBILS, who love living in colonies and therefore should live in same sex pairs or groups. Gerbils are awake during the day and very active. Some owners enjoy making complex gerbilariums since gerbils are fun to observe as they tunnel in deep bedding and scurry through habitat accessories. While possible to handle, they are fast and rarely sit still. A gerbil proof room or fenced area for interacting with them is best. An ideal family pet despite its bad reputation is the RAT, who is curious, social, and friendly. Rats can be taught to ride on your shoulders, and they gladly stay near their people. Highly intelligent, you can teach them fun tricks, too! Rats require spacious open wire cages and plenty of company in the form of another same sex cage mate and their human family. GUINEA PIGS are a highly recommended family pet, and one to consider if you want a calm companion to sit with younger children. They are the largest of the beginner pets, averaging at about the size of a brick. While a downfall of the previous three pets is a shorter lifespan, guinea pigs can live ﬁve to eight years or more. Guinea pigs need an open, ﬂat bottom cage, fresh fruits and vegetables on a regular basis due to their inability to produce vitamin C, and same sex companions to keep them happy. Just be warned, they are very vocal and will let you know when hunger strikes!

Intermediate CHINCHILLAS are silent and produce the least amount of odor. Skittish, they are suited for teenagers and adults. In the wild they live on the sides of cliffs and are constantly climbing and exploring their environments. Create a chinchilla

friendly room for them to adventure in for quality exercise and mental nourishment. Chinchillas do not like to be handled, making them a pet for observing rather than cuddling. They will show they are scared by dropping clumps of their fur, so it is crucial they have a stress free, quiet environment and an owner who is patient and understanding of their unique needs.

Advanced Ferrets • Rabbits FERRETS are mischievous and playful, though their cuteness comes at a cost as they are a more signiﬁcant responsibility. They have a musky odor even when descented, which isn’t ideal for everyone. Strict carnivores, ferrets require a special diet. Yearly vaccines for rabies and distemper are necessary, which is unique for a small mammal. Ferrets can be nippy when young, but make good family pets when older or after they are taught manners. They love playing for the four hours they are awake and give their owners plenty of entertainment with their feisty antics. RABBITS are possibly the most underestimated in terms of what they need. Bunnies require the most space, have a dire need for companionship, are sensitive, and can be costly. It is essential to ﬁnd a rabbit savvy veterinarian as health concerns can quickly turn deadly. Their diet should consist primarily of hay, with small amounts of pellets, fresh fruits and veggies introduced slowly. Once litter box trained, it is ideal they have time to

free roam a room or the entire house daily. Rabbits are social, fun, and interactive pets that can stay with their family for eight or more years. Should one of these species capture your heart, do continued research before adopting, as there is a lot to learn about these little pets! If purchasing as a family pet, remember that the adults of the family should be the primary caretakers. Every pocket pet needs careful handling, daily out of cage time, toys for mental stimulation, and proper veterinary services. Contact That Fish Place - That Pet Place (thatpetplace.com) or attend “That Pet Show” to learn more about the unique needs of each species. Remember: pocket pets are more than meets the eye!

QUICK GUIDE: M Most Recommended Family Pet:

Rats or Guinea Pigs M Most Specialized Care: Chinchillas M Friendliest: Rats or Guinea Pigs M Shyest: Chinchillas M Fun to Watch: Ferrets or Chinchillas WINTER 2017 17

+ COMMUNITY

LIZ AND ALICE

LCP: Do you provide pet insurance? What benefits come with pet insurance and why is it important? LM: We started providing pet insurance a few years ago. There are different plans to choose from that vary based on the pet and how much protection people want. With the cost of veterinary care today, I believe it’s a valuable asset. People have health insurance for themselves, so why not have it for their pets? LCP: You have a Boston Terrier as your mascot! Can you tell me more about her? LM: Our office mascot is named Alice. I rescued her from the SPCA. They believe she came from a puppy mill. She is currently undergoing treatment for cancer but is doing well. I started bringing Alice with me to work because she wants to be with someone all the time. However, I think from now on I will always try to have a dog in the office. I think they do more good for us than we do for them sometimes.

More about LIZ MARTIN M HISTORY: Martin Insurance Agency has been in the community for over 100 years.

Q&A LIZ MARTIN (Owner and President of Martin Insurance Agency) MARTIN INSURANCE AGENCY is dedicated to providing customers with the most affordable and effective insurance plans. They have a network of over 40 companies to compare coverages and costs to suit clients’ specific needs in areas such as auto, home, renters, business, and pet insurance. No matter your coverage needs, you can enjoy the personable experience of working one on one with a Martin Insurance agent, all of whom truly value the people they advise.

18 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

LCP: Why did you decide to manage an insurance agency? LM: My great-grandfather started the business, and it transferred to my grandfather, then to my uncle, then to me, so I’m the fourth generation to own the company. I particularly enjoy business insurance because I get to meet diﬀerent people with diverse businesses. It’s so important to me that people have their enterprises protected. LCP: What makes your insurance agency stand out? LM: When you call us, you don’t get an answering machine or a pre-recorded message; you immediately speak with a person. We take customer relations seriously and are always here to help our clients by explaining their policy options, shopping around for the cheapest and most eﬀective plans, and remaining available should any questions arise.

M PETS: In addition to Alice, Liz owns a black Lab and Jack Russell mix named Max she rescued nine years ago. M COMMUNITY: Liz supports many community organizations such as Humane Pennsylvania, ASSETS, the Lancaster YWCA, and more. M HOBBIES: Outside of work she enjoys hiking with her dogs, golﬁng, and traveling. She has been to all seven continents!

10 Colonial Avenue Millersville, PA 17551 717.340.3222 martininsurance.com

Red Rose Pet Care Center Accepting New Patients Affordable & Compassionate Care FULL SERVICE VETERINARY CLINIC 20% off Exam/Surgery/Dental • Multiple Pet Discounts Competitive Prices • Off Street Parking • No Coupon Necessary Dr. Nasir Shah, DVM Providing experienced service since 1983 Former owner of Willow Street Animal Hosp.& Lincoln Hwy Vet Clinic

996 E. Orange St. | Lancaster, PA 17602 | 717-435-8035 redrosepetvet996@comcast.net www.redrosepetcarecenter.com

Check our Facebook for more specials

Premium Grooming Services at Affordable Rates. All Breed Dog Grooming. Large and Small Dogs. Give your Dog the Special Care they Deserve. Services Offered: Bathing with Top Quality Shampoos • Blow Drying Ear Cleaning • Nail Trimming • Scissor Finishing Skin Conditioning • Flea Treatment (Non-Pesticide)

CS Pet Care LLC. ALL DOGS DONE BY APPOINTMENT WEEKDAYS, EVENINGS AND SATURDAYS AVAILABLE (Located Close to Oregon Dairy)

717-568-5152 (Shop) | 717-572-4138 (Cell) WINTER 2018

+ MEET THE BREED

Xoloitzcuintli A rare and ancient breed written by Samantha St.Clair

F YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A COMPANION TO CUDDLE WITH in the winter months, the Xoloitzcuintli, especially in its hairless variety, is an exceptionally cozy lap dog. According to some ancient beliefs, the Xolo’s warmth even has healing properties. However, while a warm companion may tempt you on cold days, it is essential to keep the Xolo’s distinct traits in mind when considering one for your family.

Their name alone represents their uniqueness. Taken apart, you can pronounce Xoloitzcuintli as show-low-eats-queen-tli or show-low. Originating from Mexico and considered the country’s national canine, the breed is still rare in the United States. It was only recently added back into the AKC in 2010 after being removed from their stud books in 1959 due to sparse numbers. Now that people are recognizing the breed’s regal qualities, the Xolo is slowly gaining popularity. The statuesque look of the Xolo is its claim to fame, causing it to appear in paintings by famous artists such as Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Xolos come in coated and hairless varieties. Coated Xolos have a plethora of colors and patterns, while hairless ones have skin colors ranging from bronze to black. Hairless dogs can have small amounts of hair on the top of their head, feet, and the last third of their tail according to AKC standards. They come in toy, miniature, and standard sizes. When it comes to living with a Xolo, you can expect a loyal companion that can be aloof with strangers due to its history as a guard dog. Early socialization is crucial if you want a more outgoing dog. Despite their independent natures, they are intelligent dogs that love to work with their people. Because they are agile, light on their feet, and fast, they are promising candidates for sports. Hairless Xolos are enjoyable due to their lack of shedding, though they do need regular baths to keep their skin healthy and, depending on the individual dog, may need lotion applied to them to prevent dryness. Also, while they make excellent lap warmers, they are not good walking buddies when it is chilly. Any extended periods in cold weather require clothing. While the Xolo is impressive, it is vital to do your research before falling in love with them. Contact a reputable breeder to learn more about the breed and to meet and interact with them before making a ﬁnal decision on adding one to your home. Information provided by long time Xolo owner, James Boose and ﬁrst time Xolo owner, Wendy Jordan, who is loving her Xolo, Fia!

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Subscribe Today! GO TO OUR WEBSITE CONTACT PAGE TO DOWNLOAD A FORM OR CALL US!

lancastercountypet.com 717.406.7811

2018 Calendar of Events Celtic Classic All Breed Dog Show March 14 – 18 York Expo Center Red Rose Classic All Breed Dog Show May 12 – 13 Lebanon Expo Center Barn Hunt/Rally/ Course Ability Test Sheriff’s K-9 Motorcycle Ride June 17 Emergency Preparedness Training Center Responsible Dog Ownership Day September 16 Amos Herr Park

lancasterkennelclub.org

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WINTER 2018

+ S E A S O NA L

WINTER 2018 5 WINTER CARE TIPS for COMMUNITY CATS BUILDING A CAT HOUSE Foam coolers and plastic storage tubs make for cheap and eﬀective community cat shelters. Be sure they have an entrance and an exit. WARM SELECTIONS Although warm in your home, blankets are not to be used in colony cat shelters since they absorb moisture. Instead, use straw which resists moisture. WET WINTER FEASTS Wet food takes less energy to digest, making it the ideal winter feast. When cats spend less energy digesting their food, they can spend it on keeping warm. Wet food should be served in insulated containers to prevent freezing. SNOW REMOVAL Shovel regularly to prevent cats from getting snowed into their shelters. Keep shelter areas free and clean of even the smallest amounts of snow, especially around their entrances and exits. SALT FREE LIVING Don’t use snow melting chemicals or salt near cat colony areas. Toxins from these products can be ingested when cats drink from puddles or lick their paws, and exposure to them is rough on their paw pads.

Twenty percent of Americans are spending millions on Valentine’s Day gifts for their pets. If you forgot to get your pet a gift, there’s no need to worry, February 20 is National Love Your Pet Day.

In celebration of National Pet Dental Health Month in February, below are a few fun facts about your pet’s mouth! n Most adult dogs have 42 teeth, and most adult cats have 30 teeth. n Cats have rough tongues caused by papillae – tiny, backward-facing barbs that cover their tongue. These work like a comb for grooming their fur, and are also used to rasp meat from animal bones. n Horse floating is a term used to smooth or contour horse’s teeth with a file (called a “float”). n Birds do not have teeth and swallow their food whole. n A guinea pig’s teeth constantly grow, so it’s important for them to chew to wear them down.

National Pig Day 2018 Created by a Texas art teacher in 1972, National Pig Day celebrates one of the smartest domesticated creatures on the planet, the pig. Falling annually on March 1, it is marked with pig-focused events at zoos and animal parks throughout the United States.

We believe in providing the most advanced care for the most reasonable prices, understanding that pets are also family, but nobody has unlimited funds. We feel the same way about our pets. Basic Grooming â&#x20AC;˘ Boarding Dental Care Vaccinations & Wellness Care Micro-chipping Digital Radiography Routine & Specialized Surgeries Surgical & Therapeutic Lasers We offer 20% off dental only (not extractions or meds)

Pets over 7 yrs of age are required to get pre-operative bloodwork. Appointments are filling up fast. Offer expires Feb 28.

1833 Lincoln Highway East Lancaster, PA 17602 (717) 393-2444 www.lincolnhwyvetclinic.com (Call for hours of operation)

WINTER 2018

+ RESCUE HIGHLIGHT

Doberman Pinscher Rescue of PA, Inc. An all volunteer rescue giving hope to Dobermans in need written by Samantha St.Clair | photographed by Samantha St.Clair

The Doberman was ďŹ rst bred by a tax collector by the name of Herr Karl Louis Dobermann

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OBERMAN PINSCHER RESCUE OF PA STARTED with a single, underweight Doberman named Shogun. When Shogun’s owner could no longer care for him, he brought him to a shelter where Pam Taylor, founder of DPR of PA, was picking up a donation box at the same time. Pam knew that the dog needed help to stand a chance of finding a forever home and decided to take him with her. After a week, she found him the home he deserved and realized what she wanted to do in life. She founded Doberman Pinscher Rescue of PA in 1986 and still finds homes for Dobermans despite the odds against them. From dogs that are emaciated, to those who need surgeries or are left in high kill shelters, the rescue does what they can to help Dobermans facing a multitude of trials. Their stories are never ending, and every year the number of dogs needing their help goes up. “When the rescue first started we were taking in 15-20 dogs per year,” Trish LaBelle, DPR of PA’s Director of Communications explained. “Now we are helping 40-50 Dobermans each year.”

MEET TESS, a Doberman brought to Pennsylvania from the South due to the efforts of DPR of PA. Scared and unsocialized, she shied away from strangers and new experiences. Tess has since been adopted and has transformed into a more relaxed, playful, and outgoing companion. At her recent Jamboree visit, Tess was all smiles as she casually watched the crowds and greeted a few people, too! Tess is just one example of how DPR of PA’s patience and dedication gave life to a dog who once didn’t know what it was like to be loved.

“A lot of people think that surrendered dogs have issues, but most end up homeless due to financial troubles, moving, illness, divorce, or getting lost,” Trish said. “We get dogs with all sorts of personalities that make great family pets.” Dogs entering the rescue range in ages from 6 week old puppies to 10 year old seniors. While some come in with health problems, the rescue dedicates resources to rehabilitating them. “Dogs we adopt out come with medical histories, some basic training, and a behavior evaluation. Adopting is the way to go if you’re looking for a dog that matches your family because we put a lot of time into assessing and preparing them for their families.” If you aren’t familiar with the breed, there are many reasons to consider adopting a Doberman. “They are a breed of their own,” Trish said. “They are active, smart, and loyal family members. They are Velcro dogs that are always beside their people.” Lovable and playful, Dobermans are great hiking companions and sporting dogs. While they can have a prey drive that makes it difficult to place them with cats, Trish explained that adopting minimizes compatibility issues. “We get Dobermans to fit just about any home. While we have some that are timid, or energetic, or don’t get along with other animals, we also receive dogs that are outgoing, calm, and great with animal companions. We always profile a family to ensure the dog and the family are getting what they need.”

DPR of PA could not rescue the number of dogs they do without the support of their volunteers and foster families. “A great way to get introduced to a breed is to foster for a breed rescue,” Trish said. “You help save a life, and you can determine if that breed is right for you.” Typically, dogs remain in their foster homes for 4-6 weeks. Foster homes provide the dog with a loving environment while they learn the dog’s personality and, when needed, help them recover from illness or injury. Outside of fostering, volunteers help with transportation, fundraising, home visits, and events including their annual Jamboree. If you are interested in fostering, volunteering, or adopting, visit DPRPA.org WINTER 2018 25

26 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

+ FUN FOCUS will be honest about their rats’ personalities. Adopting a younger rat does help, as they are easier to work with when starting young. Females are potentially better learners as they are more curious and energetic than males who tend to be on the snugglier side. If agility is your end goal, stay tuned and follow Bandit Rattery on Facebook for continued updates on the formation of a local rat agility club. Until then, enjoy the company of your rats and start small with some easy tricks!

THEIR TAILS GIVE THEM A GREAT SENSE OF BALANCE, WHICH MAKES THEM AMAZING CLIMBERS.

Trick Rats Developing a bond and having fun with your rat written by Samantha St.Clair

OGS AND HORSES AREN'T OUR only athletic companions. More species are becoming recognized as intelligent and trainable furry friends, including the rat. Coming locally in 2018 is none other than a dedicated rat agility club. Developed in Sweden and popular on the West Coast, rat agility puts handler and rat to the test as rats race over similar obstacles to dog agility including jumps, weaves, and A-frames. Of course over very scaled down, cute versions of the equipment.

Local rat enthusiast and owner of Bandit Rattery, Laura Pappas, is in the early stages of forming rat agility in Pennsylvania. “Rats are very intelligent, and training them provides mental stimulation while also building a bond between rat and owner. I used to run dog agility but no longer have time for it. When I heard of rat agility, I had to get involved. If it does go somewhere, I feel I can help others enjoy their pets in a diﬀerent way.” Kristy Pollock, owner of Happy Go Ratty rattery, also performs with her rats through trick training. “They can be

taught simple tasks such as spinning, walking on their hind legs, and coming when called or more complex tasks such as retrieving items,” she explained. You can teach them simple tricks such as spins by leading the rat with a tasty snack. Incorporating clicker training to mark the appropriate behaviors helps rats develop the tricks you want them to learn. “Some rats will learn a trick with only a few repetitions,” Kristy added. Just like any animal, personalities diﬀer from one pet to another so some will be easier to train than others. The main factors to training any rat are patience, high value treats, and knowledge of how to shape desired behaviors. “I recommend ﬁnding training videos online to learn from. It is amazing what people do with their rats,” Laura said. If you are not yet a rat owner, the rewards of becoming one expand beyond their intelligence. “Rats are amazing companions,” Kristy said. “Mine travel with me. They are social and want to be with their owners.” If you want a trick prospect, start by researching good breeders or rescues that

MORE INFORMATION M Remember to keep training sessions fun

and short (around 10 minutes) to prevent your rat from getting bored. M When using a clicker, use one with a softer sound to prevent startling your rat. “Safety seal” lids off drink containers work perfectly for this!

WINTER 2018

28 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

+ S E RV I C E S

Again, those good old photons penetrate the deeper tissues to decrease inflammation, increase blood flow, reduce swelling, and stimulate acupuncture points, all of which decrease the pain felt by the animal. Several treatments may need to take place before reaching full benefits. The third application is for acute pain or trauma. Examples would be a sudden injury to a joint, muscle, back, etc. The same effects as those for arthritis treatment will be noted, but the length of treatment will likely be less. The goal is not just alleviating pain, but also encouraging healing of the injury.

LASER PROCEDURES Light Ampliﬁcation by Stimulated Emission of Radiation written by Dr. Bill Lewis

VERY DAY WE SEEM TO HEAR something about lasers. Whether it’s with the military, laser sights on weapons, NASA, medicine, or even physics class, the word pops up more and more. But what do lasers have to do with dogs and cats (or other animals for that matter)? We at Lincoln Highway Veterinary Clinic provide laser procedures in Lancaster County. How does a laser help my pet you may ask? Well, we will attempt to answer that question and many others as we introduce you to the laser we use at LHVC.

Lasers are used for therapeutic and surgical purposes. A therapeutic laser uses photons (small particles of light) to penetrate tissue to achieve the desired effect. The effects we are working toward fall into four main categories. First off is wound treatment. Wounds, no matter how shallow or deep, can present

challenges. When wounds decide not to heal, they can become a signiﬁcant problem. The laser can penetrate the tissue surrounding the injury and encourage healing by promoting the development of what is called granulation tissue. Granulation tissue is the backbone of healing. Additionally, the laser discourages bacteria growth thus helping to disinfect the region. The result is a quicker return to health. But it doesn’t stop there. The laser can also be used to help speed up the healing process of surgical wounds and incisions, chronic ear infections, lick granulomas, and even torn toenails! The second use of the therapy laser is for treating chronic pain such as arthritis. As many owners are fully aware, as our pets age, they tend to slow down, eat less, get up more slowly, have diﬃculty going up or down stairs, or just outright limp, all of which can be symptoms of arthritis.

The fourth application involves swelling or edema resulting from surgeries, trauma, or wherever lymph or blood flow has been compromised. The laser encourages the dilation of blood vessels and lymph vessels, thus allowing them to reabsorb fluid back into circulation. The laser also stimulates the production of new vessels, again allowing more fluid to be reabsorbed. There are endless potential applications for the therapy laser, and here at Lincoln Highway Veterinary Clinic we are constantly striving to provide the best care possible for our patients and will continue to build on our laser therapy procedures. For a demonstration just ask one of our staff members!

MThis article was written by Lincoln Highway

Veterinary Clinic, located in Lancaster. Visit them online at lincolnhwyvetclinic.com to learn more.

WINTER 2018 29

“Visit” IZZY

We carry items for cats and dogs, including food, treats, bedding, toys and hygiene products. We also special order anything for small animals, birds and fish!

17 WEST MARKET STREET, MARIETTA Monday & Tuesday: Closed; Wednesday & Thursday: 10a.m. – 6p.m. • Friday 10a.m. – 5p.m. Saturday: 10a.m. – 3p.m. • Sunday: call for hours

717-604-1196 • www.fortheloveofdogpa.com

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+ GROOMING

Doggy Hygiene Understanding the grooming needs of your canine written by Joyce Walton

HINKING ABOUT BRINGING A furry family member into your home? There are a few things to consider, such as required health and grooming needs. These responsibilities are not a choice, but a very necessary part of properly caring for your canine companion. There are many grooming salons available to take care of grooming needs and each has a diﬀerent atmosphere and style to keep in mind. For instance, consider what products are used as this does play a part in the end result. It is important to decide what suits both you and your pet’s personality and comfort level.

Here are some important considerations and details to better prepare all pet owners when they are deciding what pet to adopt and what grooming center to utilize. 1. WHAT BREED ARE YOU INTERESTED IN? HAVE YOU DONE THE RESEARCH ON THIS BREED’S GROOMING NEEDS? n The standard time for grooming is every 4-6 weeks. However, diﬀerent breeds need more or less time between grooming appointments 2. WHAT HOME MAINTENANCE ARE YOU PREPARED TO DO? n While there may be very little home maintenance, this should be shared with your groomer since s/he will provide a grooming plan with this in mind. Longhaired or curly and coarse fur may mat, which may create health issues and a potentially dangerous grooming experience for your dog and the groomer. Matting issues are extremely time-consuming to remedy, so please use proper daily combing to avoid time-consuming grooming appointments.

REGULAR GROOMING VISITS MAY RESULT IN EARLY DETECTION OF ISSUES WITH EARS, SKIN, TEETH AND MORE.

3. DOES YOUR DOG HAVE SPECIAL NEEDS, SKIN CONDITIONS, TEMPERAMENT CONSIDERATIONS, ALLERGIES? n All of these issues will play a part in what is best for your dog. 4. DOES YOUR DOG HAVE THE REQUIRED VACCINATIONS? n Some groomers do require certain vaccinations so you will need to provide this information prior to the grooming service. 5. WHAT IS YOUR BUDGET FOR PROPER MAINTENANCE? n Be very careful not to underestimate the grooming needs of the breed/mix you choose. Depending on the length and type of fur, some may tangle and mat if not brushed well daily. There are many facts your groomer needs you to know. Having a personable and close relationship with your groomer makes for a wonderful situation for you and more importantly, your furry family

member. Communication is vital to this relationship; always share information that will contribute to a graceful grooming experience. n Not all groomers are the same, they will diﬀer in training, environment, and skill set. n It is not as simple as it looks; there are many factors that may add time to your appointment, such as energy level, behavior, and stress. n Training your pet for grooming should start at home. If you prepare your pet in advance, they will have a much more comfortable experience. n It is important to be realistic and speciﬁc in your expectations. For instance, a “puppy cut” is not universal and can be very subjective.

JOYCE WALTON owns and operates CS Pet Care LLC in Leola, PA. Joyce believes the relationship with her clients is vital to a positive experience.

WINTER 2018

+ H E A LT H

Fear Free Office Visits Making oﬃce visits less stressful for felines written by Dr. Grace Amicone New Holland Veterinary Hospital

NE OF THE MOST STRESSFUL things a cat owner has to do is take their cat to the veterinarian. I would like to offer some tips and hints to make this annual trip a bit easier. Our office is instituting strategies to make our office Fear Free. One tool we find helpful is Feliway pheromone spray. This product is a synthetic marker pheromone which friendly cats use to mark other cats or people. This has a relaxing effect and helps to reduce anxiety.

The dreaded pet carrier is the ﬁrst barrier. I am sure all of us have had the lovely experience of catching and trying to shove our loving feline into their carrier. I still don't know how a 4 legged kitty turns into an 8 legged whirling dervish. Then there is enduring the car ride while she is wailing at the top of her lungs. Once at the veterinarian's, she refuses to exit the carrier and it's another battle to pry her out, possibly earning some battle wounds. It's no wonder cat owners are so reluctant to bring their precious fur babies to their annual examinations.

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Feliway Spray

The ﬁrst tip is to have a carrier that is large enough for your cat. One with an easy to remove top is also handy. I suggest leaving the carrier out for several days to a week prior to your visit to get them accustomed to it. Tossing treats into and/or feeding in the carrier can help change it from something to be feared to a pleasant treat station. Spray a towel with Feliway and place it into the carrier

a few minutes before putting the cat in. Alternatively, you can wrap the towel around the cat, essentially swaddling her while gently placing her into the carrier. The Feliway spray will help keep her calm during the car ride to the oﬃce. Once there, place the carrier up on the bench instead of on the ﬂoor. Having a towel to cover the carrier can shield her from seeing other animals in the waiting room. In the exam room, instead of pulling or dumping your cat out of the carrier, simply remove the top. We use Feliway sprayed towels to drop over cats, giving them a feeling of safety and cover. It is then easy to do our examination and treatments while your cat feels safe sitting in the bottom of her carrier. Cats learn quickly even after one stress free experience. The next time your cat has to come see us, she will be more relaxed.

700 East Main Street, New Holland, PA 17557 717.354.3130 newhollandveterinaryhospital.vetstreet.com

WINTER 2018 33

+ INSIGHTS What do I do when my pet has a broken tooth? We always recommend a good oral exam with your pet’s yearly wellness exam. This gives the doctor a chance to evaluate your pet’s teeth and monitor dental disease on a regular basis. Dental cleanings are recommended based on the initial oral exam. If a tooth is missing or broken, a dental cleaning is warranted. Missing teeth can sometimes leave behind tooth roots that can cause a painful abscess. Broken teeth can be painful if the pulp or root is exposed, and can lead to an abscess. Therefore, extraction of the compromised tooth/root is typically recommended.

I have a senior pet, can a dental cleaning still be done? Not all patients are good surgical candidates, young or old. We always recommend a thorough physical exam and pre-surgical blood work before putting any pet under anesthesia. Blood work checks many values such as liver and kidney function to help look for any anesthetic risks. Each one of our patients is also closely monitored under anesthesia by a dedicated technician and doctor. There are always risks associated with anesthesia, but we do all that we can to make sure your pet does well.

PET DENTAL QUESTIONS

Q&A

DIANE HODGES, DVM (Happy Tails Animal Hospital)

Will a dental cleaning help my pet’s breath? Yes. A dental cleaning will help improve your pet’s breath. After a cleaning, regular dental care will help keep it fresh as well. When needed, dental cleanings improve the overall health of your pet, because just like humans, pets can develop kidney, liver, and heart disease as a by product of dental disease. Dental cleanings provide an opportunity to treat dental disease and address other oral problems.

34 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

Do pets really need to be under anesthesia for the cleaning? Yes. Unfortunately pets do not sit still as human patients do for dental care. There are many aspects to a dental cleaning that are very important. They need to sit still to scale tartar oﬀ of the teeth above and below the gum line, and to polish the teeth as this is also a very important aspect of a dental. Polishing the tooth helps to remove grooves in the tooth that could later collect more tartar. Therefore, it is crucial that the pet is under anesthesia and calm for the entire procedure so we can make sure that we do the best job possible.

Do pets get cavities?

Pets do get cavities. Although they are not as common as other types of periodontal disease such as gingivitis, abscesses, tooth loss and periodontal pockets. Cats speciﬁcally often times develop something called resorptive lesions, which closely resemble cavities in humans. These are very painful and can cause the crown (top) of the tooth to fracture.

Are dental x-rays really necessary?

More than 70% of gum disease is below the gum line where we cannot see. Dental x-rays allow us to get a view of the tooth above and below the gum line. With x-rays we are able to ﬁnd abscesses, retained roots, root fractures, and bone loss.

WINTER 2018 35

36 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

+ SPECIAL

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CAN DO FOR YOUR ELDERLY PET IS TO MINIMIZE ANY PAIN OR DISTRESS.

Pet Hospice An emerging ﬁeld oﬀering support for pets and their families written by Kathryn Jennings, CPLP, CPFE

NOT TOO LONG AGO, A DIFFICULT PET diagnosis or aging concerns left pet families with few options for end-of-life, pain management or emotional support. But in the last several years, with advances in palliative and mobile veterinary services, a new field has emerged— the field of pet hospice. Pet hospice is care that is focused on meeting the needs of pets and their families during the final stages of incurable diseases. A compassionate hospice team including veterinary professionals and support service providers offer assistance in providing quality of life for the patient that includes palliative care and preparation for death [with or without intervention]. The hospice team’s goal is to guide pet families in making decisions about where and when to say goodbye and making final arrangements for burial or cremation. They also validate and support the emotional needs of pet caregivers and families.

When quality of life can still be maintained, pet hospice offers an alternative to premature euthanasia. CHOOSING PET HOSPICE Some pet families may elect to pursue treatment options throughout the course of a terminal disease such as cancer, while other families may elect not to do so for a variety of reasons such as a poor prognosis or financial constraints. Either way, pet families have the goal in hospice to provide comfort care while they are preparing for their pet’s end-oflife experience. Providing a path of least regrets for families during decision making at this time is paramount. BENEFITS OF PET HOSPICE CARE There are several benefits to offering hospice to pet families. Probably the most important is simply education. Providing families with vital information about the progress of a pet’s illness or disease is vital to hospice care. Giving

families as much information as possible as early as possible in the course of a terminal illness allows them to make informed decisions on behalf of their pets and determining their future care. Decisions such as when to stop treatment and when to euthanize are some of the most diﬃcult and emotional decisions a pet’s family is faced with. Unfortunately, these tough decisions often are made during the last days of a pet’s life. Pet hospice focuses on decisions such as these ahead of time in order for a more peaceful end-of-life experience for both the pet and its family. In pet hospice care, the pet’s veterinary team and the family’s support team concentrate on the comfort of a pet through pain management, nutrition, and comfort care. There are veterinary studies that indicate that pets oﬀered hospice care actually live longer even with incurable diseases. Pet families are fortunate that veterinary teams now have an enhanced opportunity to provide a better quality of life at a pet’s end-of-life. SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES DURING HOSPICE CARE On-going support during hospice care is vital for the pet’s family during their caregiving experience and anticipatory grief journey. It is important for families to be connected with support resources when they are faced with making end-oflife decisions. These resources include in-person support groups, grief counselors, online support chats and social media communities of pet families which help them cope with their anticipatory grief and give them an atmosphere of empathy, understanding and support.

For more information on, if, or when pet hospice may be the right choice for you and your pet, contact Day By Day Pet Caregiver Support at 484.453.8210 or by emailing daybydaypetsupport@comcast.net or visit daybydaypetsupport.com

WINTER 2018

+ P ET S E RV I C E S

Sit and Stay Below are just a few of the many businesses in and around Lancaster County, PA

BOARDING When it comes to leaving our beloved pets, only the best establishments will do.

Dog Sense LLC 440 Stoney Lane, Lancaster, PA 17603 717.509.5652 • DogSensePA.com Playful Pups Retreat 850 Milton Grove Road North Elizabethtown, PA 17022 717.689.3408 • playfulpupsretreat.com

GROOMING If your canine or feline friend is in need of some fur and nail styling, there is no shortage of passionate and professional groomers here in Lancaster.

A Pooch Parlor 1200 Corporate Boulevard Lancaster, PA 17601 717.285.5826 • apoochparlor.com Deb the Dog Groomer 1027 Dillerville Road Lancaster, PA 17603 717.394.8134 • debthedoggroomer.com

THE EARLIEST EUROPEAN SETTLERS OF AMERICA BROUGHT GOATS OVER ON THE MAYFLOWER. BY 1630, A JAMESTOWN CENSUS LISTED GOATS AS ONE OF THAT COLONY’S MOST VALUABLE POSSESSIONS.

Drake’s Pet Place Lincoln Highway East Lancaster, PA 17602 717.290.1131 facebook.com/Drakes-Pet-Place

Once Upon a Dog Tail Lancaster, PA • 717.575.2656 onceuponadogtail.com

Renee’s Pet Grooming Village Center at Mountville 117 Oak Ridge Drive, Mountville, PA 17554 717.285.3330 reneespetgroomingsalon.ieasysite.com

Lancaster boasts some of the most talented pet-loving artists and photographers.

PET-FRIENDLY BUSINESS More and more local businesses are welcoming pets to their locations.

Geri’s Pet Detective Agency Lost Pet Assistance Find us on Facebook 717.892.8351

PET SITTERS You will ﬁnd these experienced pet care professionals are happy to watch over your furry family members.

Pet Watch Plus Ephrata, PA • 717.738.3370 petwatch-plus.com • pwp10@ptd.net

PET PORTRAIT ARTIST/ PHOTOGRAPHERS

Christiane David Gallery 112 North Prince Street Lancaster, PA 17603 717.293.0809 • christianedavid.com CLC Photography Lancaster County, PA 717.201.9162 slcarrie@gmail.com carriecammauf.com Crevan Night Photography CrevanNight.com CrevanNight@gmail.com Neillustrations 717.802.5704 • neil@neillustrations.com neillustrations.com

Three Tips to Finding an Artist for a Pet Portrait Consider the level of realism you’re looking for. Some artists can achieve photo realism while others can stylize your animal to look unique and funky. Consider what type of art you prefer and what you'd enjoy looking at every day.

n How much are you willing to spend? Sketches, caricatures, and cartoon portraits are usually faster to produce and more affordable. Paintings can take weeks or months but can have great results.

n Do the artist's samples have a consistent style and level of quality? This can show they are experienced enough to give you a comparable product to their other works.

n Animals have their own personalities and quirks that can come through visually. “The eyes are the window to the soul” and animals are no different. If done right, you can tell “THAT’S my pet!” Neil McMillin, pet caricature artist & owner of Neillustrations www.neillustrations.com

30 LANCASTER COUNTY PET 38

+ AROUND LANCASTER

Holly from Millersville

Luna from Lancaster

Lexi with stick in Millersville

Monti and Gio feeling comfortable in the ice

Daisy Mae Mathews from Stevens

Chloe Shindle in Columbia

Reilly in snow in Middletown

Honor loving the snow in Lancaster

Penny making tracks in the white stuff

Ariel Berkihiser under the family Christmas tree

Furry Encounters

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Maximillian eating lettuce in Lancaster

Scruffy McGee LaBow in Landisville

Lily, Luna and Jaxi in Denver

WINTER 2018

+ I N F O R M AT I O N

Pet resources

ANIMAL SUPPORT AGENCIES 2nd Chance 4 Life Rescue Foster network for dogs PO Box 549 • Elizabethtown, PA 17022 2ndchance4liferescue.org Angels Among Us Animal Sanctuary Senior dog rescue PO Box 1063 • Quentin, PA 17083 facebook.com/AAUseniordogs/ Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue Golden & Labrador Retrievers rescue 60 Vera Cruz Road • Reinholds, PA 17569 717.484.4799 • dvgrr.org Doberman Pinscher Rescue of PA, Inc Doberman Pinschers Rescue Oxford, PA 19363 • dprpa.org Furever Home Adoption Center, Inc. All volunteer, no kill, cage free facility 5984 Main Street East Petersburg, PA 17520 • 717.560.6400 fureverhomeadoptioncenter.com Helping Hands for Animals Caretakers of stray and feral cats Lancaster, PA • 717.687.7297 helpinghandsforanimals.org Humane League of Lancaster County Shelter, Adopt, Educate & Protect 2195 Lincoln Highway East Lancaster, PA 17602 • 717.393.6551 humanepa.org Lancaster C.A.R.E.S Coalition for Animal Rescues, Education and Services info@lancastercares.org

40 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

Lancaster County Animal Coalition Building a better community through compassion to animals PO Box 363 • Elizabethtown, PA 17022 facebook.com/ lancastercountyanimalcoalition Leo’s Helping Paws Assistance to dog rescue groups 1284 Wheatland Avenue Lancaster, PA 17603 • 717.475.9621 leoshelpingpaws.org Lost Paws of Lancaster Animal rescue PO Box 551 • Lititz, PA 17543 717.725.3136 • lostpawsoﬂancaster.org PSPCA Lancaster Animal shelter 848 S. Prince Street • Lancaster, PA 17603 717.917.6979 • pspca.org PAWS No-kill animal rescue and spay/neuter Petsmart • 1700 Fruitville Pike Lancaster, PA 17601 • 717.957.8122 pawsofpa.org

United Against Puppy Mills Elimination of puppy mills PO Box 7202 • Lancaster, PA 17604 unitedagainstpuppymills.org

BIRD RESCUES Feathered Sanctuary Exotic Bird Rescue 1674 Kirkwood Pike • Kirkwood, PA 17536 717.529.2966 • featheredsanctuary.com

LARGE ANIMAL LAW ENFORCEMENT Large Animal Protection Society PO Box 243 • West Grove, PA 19390 610.869.9880 largeanimalprotectionsociety.org

THERAPY SERVICES Day by Day Pet Caregiver Support Pet loss grief support PO Box 633 • Drexel Hill, PA 19026 484.453.8210 • daybydaypetsupport.com KPETS Pet enhanced therapy services 630 Janet Avenue • Lancaster, PA 17601 888.685.7387 • kpets.org

Pet Pantry of Lancaster County Meeting the needs of animals/families 26 Millersville Road • Lancaster, PA 17603 717.983.8878 • petpantrylc.org Phoenix Assistance Dogs Meeting the needs of animals/families 547 Wood View Drive • Lititz, PA 17543 padcentral.org

lancastercountypet.com 717.406.7811

Bret Greenberg DVM and Associates, Companion Animal Clinic is a 6000 square foot state of the art veterinary facility featuring digital xray, ultrasound, KLaser therapy, in house labwork, and oďŹ&#x20AC;ering a full range of routine care, medical, surgical, and dental services. We pride ourselves in client education and tailoring all of our vaccination and treatment protocols to the individual needs of the patient, not treating all dogs and cats as if they were the same.

Companion Animal Clinic 601 S. 16th Street Columbia, PA 17512 717-689-2339 bretgreenbergdvm.com