ANIMAL WELLNESS
For a long, healthy life!
WELLNESS
WHY DOGS ARE
SMARTER THAN WE THINK
Ground-breaking studies bring canine intelligence to light
NATURAL WAYS TO
TASTY
YOGURT RECIPES
EASE HIS ANXIET Y
to share with your best friend
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TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH A SENIOR DOG
BREEDS WITH
BREATHING PROBLEMS
Why brachycephalic (flatfaced) dogs are more prone
TAKE A TOUR OF
DOG-FRIENDLY BREWERIES!
Brynn
HOW INTERACTIVE TOYS CAN IMPROVE BEHAVIOR
We met this gorgeous German shepherd at last year’s Woofstock festival in Toronto. Find out how she uses her fame to raise awareness about canine health, nutrition and a rare canine disease called Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency.
JUNE/JULY 2018 Display until July 9, 2018
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BONUS INSIDE!
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Animal Wellness
June/July 2018
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Contents June/July 2018
Features
18 UNDERSTANDING YOUR DOG'S MIND AND EMOTIONS
42
How smart is your dog? How many emotions does he have access to? Recent research into canine behavior and cognition is yielding some surprising results.
22 NATURAL REMEDIES FOR CANINE ANXIETY
Is your dog a “nervous Nelly?“ Anxious behaviors are common in our canine companions, so here’s how to help him chill using a holistic, natural approach.
26 WHY INTERACTIVE TOYS ARE GOOD FOR YOUR DOG
Interactive toys offer many benefits to your dog – they provide mental stimulation and combat boredom, satisfy his natural instincts, and make mealtime more fun.
28 A SHORT HISTORY OF
DOG TRAINING
From cruelty to kindness -- how our approach to dog training has become more enlightened.
32 SERVICE, THERAPY
AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT DOGS
The terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but there’s a difference between these three working dog classifications.
36 DOG-FRIENDLY
BREWERIES
How about visiting a dog-friendly craft brewery? While you sample the suds, your canine companion can enjoy your company and socialize with other pooches.
38 DOGS THAT DON’T
LIKE TO PLAY
Depending on how a dog was raised and treated, he may not enjoy or even know how to play. Help him learn how to have fun again.
42 BRYNN
This German shepherd is more than just a pretty face. She’s using her influence to spread the word about canine health, nutrition and EPI, a rare but serious canine disease.
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46 CCD AND VITAMIN D
Sometimes referred to as “doggy dementia”, canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) affects many senior dogs. A deficiency in vitamin D3 could be the cause.
50 SUCCESSFUL DOG TRAINING WITH TREATS
Treats are important rewards when you’re training a dog, but don’t become dependent on them. Learn to make training treats work for both of you.
58 BRACHYCEPHALIC DOGS
Flat-faced dogs with short noses are prone to health problems. It’s important to educate yourself about these conditions when adopting a brachycephalic breed or mix.
64 YOGURT – IT’S GOOD
FOR DOGS AND CATS TOO!
The health benefits of yogurt aren’t just for people, so why not share this treat with your pet as well? Most dogs and cats love it, and it makes an excellent addition to their diet.
68 TRAVELING WITH YOUR SENIOR DOG
Taking an older dog on vacation with you? Here are 9 ways to keep him safe and comfortable while on the road and at your destination.
76 AN ADVENTURE DOG NAMED CAT
This active young Catahoula dog is a perfect match for professional adventure couple, Emily Harrington and Adrian Ballinger.
80 6 STEPS TO HELPING YOUR NEW RESCUE DOG SETTLE IN
Rescue dogs can come from situations of neglect and abuse, so may have trouble adjusting to adoption. Help your new friend feel more secure as he gets used to living with you.
91 LITTER BOX CARE MADE SIMPLE
The latest in cat litter and litter box products are designed to help make clean-up a breeze.
94 GROOMING YOUR KITTY
Most cats do a superb job of grooming themselves, but sometimes they need a bit of assistance.
96 PANDORA SYNDROME IN CATS
Feline urinary tract disease may not always be just a physical condition. Research has revealed stress also plays a role in the development of what’s termed Pandora Syndrome.
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36 26 Columns
50
12 Yakkity yak 41 Business profile – animalEO
62 Passages 72 Rewind 75 Business profile – BioLogicVET
78 To the rescue 84 Book reviews 88 Tail end
Departments 8
Editorial
56
Product picks
67
The scoop
70
Animal Wellness resource guide
News, events, and tips! @ AW_magazine
85
Events
Tips, pet photos, and more! AnimalWellnessMagazine
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Marketplace
Crafts, laughs, and more! AnimalWellness
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Classifieds
98 Cat chat
Social media Tips, contests and more! AnimalWellnessMagazine
June/July 2018
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VOLUME 20 ISSUE 3
EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Associate Editor: Emily Watson Senior Graphic Designer: Dawn Cumby-Dallin Senior Graphic Designer: Kathleen Atkinson Social/Digital Media Manager: Theresa Gannon Web Design & Development: Brad Vader Tail End Illustration: Libby Sinden Cover Image Courtesy of: Maureen Fowler COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Matthew Berk Marybeth Bittel W. Jean Dodds, DVM Tammy M Donaldson, MS, PhD, CAAB Audi Domamor Sarah Ann Gray Andrea Gronwald Tamara Hendrix Sara Jackson Deva Khalsa, VMD Ingrid King Anabelle Lee Macri Patrick Mahaney, VMD, CVA Ramona Marek Shawn Messonnier, DVM Sandra Murphy Tonya Wilhelm Linda Young ADMINISTRATION & SALES President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Accounting: Susan Smith Circulation & Office Manager: Libby Sinden SUBMISSIONS: Please email all editorial material to Ann Brightman, Managing Editor, at ann@redstonemediagroup.com. We welcome previously unpublished articles and color pictures either in jpeg, tif or disc form at 300 dpi. We cannot guarantee that either articles or pictures will be used or that they will be returned. We reserve the right to publish all letters received. You can also mail submissions to: Animal Wellness Magazine, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8. Please direct other correspondence to info@redstonemediagroup.com.
ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF:
Maureen Fowler This gorgeous girl loves posing for the camera! Brynn is a young German shepherd we met at last year’s Woofstock festival in Toronto. She has her own Instagram account, and is also a “poster dog” for a serious but manageable canine disease called Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency. For Brynn’s full story, turn to page 42.
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ADVERTISING SALES National Accounts Manager: Ann Beacom, (866) 764 -1212 ext. 222 annbeacom@redstonemediagroup.com Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr, (866) 764-1212 ext. 221 becky@redstonemediagroup.com
ADVERTISING SALES CONTINUED Multimedia Specialist: Kat Shaw, (866) 764-1212 ext. 315 katshaw@redstonemediagroup.com National Media Specialist: Kristen McCollam, (866) 764-1212 ext. 220 kristen@redstonemediagroup.com Subscription Services Manager: Brittany Tufts, (866) 764-1212 ext. 115 brittany@redstonemediagroup.com CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Libby Sinden classifiedads@animalwellnessmagazine.com TO SUBSCRIBE: Subscription price at time of this issue is $24.00 in the U.S. and Canada, including taxes for six issues shipped via surface mail. Subscriptions can be processed by: Website: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com Phone: (866) 764-1212 ext 115 US MAIL: Animal Wellness Magazine, 6834 S University Blvd PMB 155 Centennial, CO 80122 CDN MAIL: Animal Wellness Magazine, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8 Subscriptions are payable by VISA, MasterCard, American Express, check or money order. The material in this magazine is not intended to replace the care of veterinary practitioners. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor, and different views may appear in other issues. Redstone Media Group Inc., publisher of Animal Wellness, does not promote any of the products orservices advertised by a third party advertiser in this publication, nor does Redstone Media Group Inc. verify the accuracy of any claims made in connection with such advertisers. Refund policy: call or write our customer service department and we will refund unmailed issues. DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOME: Animal Wellness Magazine is available at a discount for resale in retail shops and through various organizations. Call Libby at (866) 764-1212 ext 100 and ask for dealer magazine sales, fax us at (705) 742-4596 or e-mail at libby@animalwellnessmagazine.com
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Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyright© 2018. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: April 2018.
Improving the lives of animals... one reader at a time.
editorial
Healthy
& happy – it applies to them too!
Our rescued fluff ball Muffie hates being left alone. I know this because she tells me. Not with words, of course, but with actions. If I neglect to close the doors in the house, she will systematically empty out all the garbage pails in each room. She’ll drag out every tissue and wrapper, often knocking over the pail in the process. I can just imagine what she’s thinking: I’ll show them! Anyone who has a dog has probably witnessed some form of anxiety in their canine companion. Understandably, rescued dogs who haven’t been socialized well may have a touch more anxiety than the average. The key is recognizing and dealing with the behavior. We developed a routine that worked like a charm when we had to leave our husky/shepherd Sasha and little Muffie on their own. We put comfy dog beds in the mudroom and trained them to automatically go there when we were leaving the house. A cookie for each dog sealed the deal. The routine paid off – they were calm and cozy in the closed mudroom, and the rest of the house was safe from their rummaging. Of course, a little spray of calming essential oils didn’t hurt either. When it comes to overall wellness in our animal companions, we need to factor in mental and emotional well-being as well as physical health. That’s why we’re devoting this issue not only to behavior, but to the issues that cause or contribute to aggression, anxiety and other problems in dogs and cats. We open with an article that shows how dogs are a lot smarter than we think they are, and that they may experience emotions similar to ours. If your dog has
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Animal Wellness
anxiety, you’ll want to explore the many natural remedies and methods you can use to help soothe him. Or what if your newly-adopted dog doesn’t know how to play? It may mean he has been abused or improperly socialized – find out how to help him learn to have fun. A well-behaved dog is also a well-trained dog. We include articles on the evolution of positive, rewardbased training; how to use treats to best advantage when training your pooch; and steps you can take to help a rescue dog settle into your home. Our cover story features Brynn, an elegant German shepherd we met at last year’s Woofstock festival in Toronto. Along with her doting human companion, this remarkable dog is promoting canine health and nutrition, and raising awareness about EPI. Our Feline Wellness bonus section includes an interesting piece on Pandora syndrome, a behavioral issue that may be linked to urinary problems. We also offer ways to make litter box care easier, along with tips on grooming your kitty. As always, we wish you quality time with your wonderful animal companions, and hope you enjoy this issue of Animal Wellness. Naturally,
Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief
Celebrating Congratulations to last month’s Super 20 Giveaway winners! To celebrate our 20th year, we’re giving away 20 prizes every month! Here are just a few of last month’s lucky recipients…
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animalwellnessmagazine.com/mobile June/July 2018
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contributors
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4
5
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1. Veterinarian Dr. Jean Dodds received her veterinary degree in 1964 from the Ontario Veterinary College. In 1986, she established Hemopet, the first non-profit national blood bank program for animals. Dr. Dodds has been a member of many committees on hematology, animal models of human disease and veterinary medicine. She received the Holistic Veterinarian of the Year Award from the AHVMA in 1994. Read Dr. Dodds’ article about brachycephalic dogs on page 58. 2. Veterinarian Dr. Deva Khalsa authored Dr. Khalsa’s The Natural Dog and co-authored Healing Your Horse: Alternative Therapies. She lectures internationally and is a professor at the British Institute of Homeopathy. She has almost 30 years of experience in holistic modalities. For this issue, Dr. Khalsa takes a look at canine dementia – page 46. 3. Veterinarian Dr. Patrick Mahaney graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 1999. He is a certified veterinary acupuncturist from the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society. His practice, California Pet Acupuncture and Wellness, offers integrative medicine. Dr. Mahaney writes a veterinary blog for patrickmahaney.com and is working on his first book, The Uncomfortable Vet. On page 22, he discusses natural remedies for canine anxiety. 4. Dr. Tammy Donaldson is a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist. She is the proprietor of Applied Animal Behavior Consulting and coauthor of The Science Behind a Happy Dog:
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Animal Wellness
Canine Thinking, Training and Behavior. She received a masters and doctorate in animal behavior at Washington State University (WSU) and studied Clinical Animal Behavior at WSU and the Veterinary Teaching Hospital Behavior Clinic. Her graduate research focused on behavioral evaluation for detecting canine aggression. Tammy focuses on the mental/ emotional makeup of dogs on page 18. 5. Audi Donamor has been successfully creating special needs diets for companion animals for two decades. She founded the University of Guelph’s Smiling Blue Skies® Cancer Fund and Smiling Blue Skies® Fund for Innovative Research. She is the proud recipient of a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and was honored with the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, for her work in cancer, from the University of Guelph/Ontario Veterinary College. The Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund is also the recipient of the “Pets + Us” Community Outreach Champion Award. Turn to page 64 for Audi’s article on yogurt for pets. 6. Andrea Gronwald is a certified family dog trainer through Raise with Praise, Inc., owned and operated by Paul Owens, a leading positive dog training expert. She has worked with dogs as a volunteer for two Humane Societies. Andrea and her dog are also part of a volunteer pet therapy program for veterans. She recently started working as a trainer for a local dog training company. Andrea is a strong proponent of positive training methods. On page 50, she writes about successful training with treats.
7. Tonya Wilhelm is a dog training and cat care specialist who has traveled the US promoting positive ways of preventing and managing behavior issues with a holistic approach. Named one of the top ten dog trainers in the US, she has helped thousands build happy relationships with their dogs using humane, positive training methods. She wrote Proactive Puppy Care; offers group and private dog training classes; provides training and behavior services, and does workshops at pet expos (raisingyourpetsnaturally.com). See page 38 for Tonya’s advice on how to teach a troubled dog to play. 8. Ingrid King is a former veterinary hospital manager and author of five cat books, including Buckley’s Story: Lessons from a Feline Master Teacher and Tortitude: The BIG Book of Cats with a BIG Attitude. Her blog, The Conscious Cat, is an award-winning resource for conscious living, health and happiness for cats and their humans (ConsciousCat. com). Ingrid writes for magazines and websites around the world. For this issue, she discusses Pandora syndrome in felines (page 96). 9. Ramona Marek is a freelance writer and author of Cats for the GENIUS. She writes for many national and international print and digital magazines. Ramona is a professional member of the Cat Writers’ Association and a non-veterinarian member of the American Association of Human-Animal Bond Veterinarians. Turn to page 76 for Ramona’s profile of an adventure dog named Cat.
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10. Sarah Ann Gray has been working in the rescue community for many years. Her training focuses on teaching others the power of compassion and of having fun while training. She is completing her professional dog trainer certification this summer and resides in Los Angeles with her dog, Zydeco. Sarah Ann traces the evolution of dog training on page 28. 11. Marybeth Bittel is a freelance writer and marketing consultant who lives in the Great Lakes region with her husband and rescue dogs. She has spent more than 20 years working to nurture, re-socialize and rehabilitate
contributors
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9
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abused rescues of all breeds, shapes and sizes. See page 80 for Marybeth’s suggestions for helping a rescue dog settle in a new home. 12. Tamra Bolles writes under the pen name of Anabelle Lee Macri, and lives in Atlanta, Georgia. She graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor's degree in journalism, and is a freelance writer. She discusses the difference between therapy, service and emotional support dogs on page 32.
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Valley. She is a graduate of the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and has a BFA in Screenwriting. She is a freelance writer and has written a number of short stories, two scripts and a book (sarajacksonwriter.com). See page 68 for Sara’s tips for traveling with a senior dog. Sandra Murphy lives in St Louis, Missouri. When she's not writing, she works as a pet sitter. She explores the growth of dog-friendly breweries on page 36.
13. Sara Jackson lives on a 12-acre farm in American Canyon, just outside the Napa
June/July 2018
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yakkity yak HOW DO YOU TALK TO YOUR DOG? If you often talk to your dog, you’re not alone. Researchers Alex Benjamin and Katie Slocombe from the University of York in the UK conducted two experiments to determine whether or not talking to your dog in “dog-speak” (using a high-pitched tone with dogrelated words such as “walk” and “good boy”) enhances the human-animal bond. "A special speech register, known as infant-directed speech, is thought to aid language acquisition and improve the way a human baby bonds with an adult,” says Slocombe. “This form of speech is known to share some similarities with the way in which humans talk to their pet dogs, known as dog-directed speech." Study results showed that dogs prefer to interact with those who speak in high-pitched, emotional tones and utter dog-relevant words. Benjamin and Slocombe hope that their findings will be useful for pet owners, as well as veterinary professionals and rescue workers. link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10071-018-1172-4
“MAKE-A-WISH FOUNDATION” FOR ANIMALS Mckenzi Taylor is a childhood leukemia survivor who has dedicated her life to saving sick, injured and abused animals. Mckenzi was only two years old when she was diagnosed. During her long battle with cancer, two things kept her fighting – the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which granted her wish to be a Disney princess, and the promise of a puppy once her immune system was strong enough. After years of fighting, Mckenzi finally beat the cancer, and her father took her to a local shelter to adopt a puppy. When they arrived, Mckenzi couldn't believe how many sick and injured animals needed homes. She was saddened to learn there was no Make-A-Wish Foundation for animals, and decided to do something about it. The result was poundWISHES, which allows animal welfare organizations to connect with donors across the country. Since its founding in 2014, poundWISHES has raised over $2 million and saved over 3,000 animals – an amazing record for just four years! poundwishes.com
Hot asphalt can
Thanks to Mckenzi’s vision, dogs across North America are getting a second chance at life.
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Animal Wellness
burn your dog’s sensitive paw pads. Protect his feet with doggie boots.
June/July 2018
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yakkity yak MAKING TENNESSEE MORE DOG-FRIENDLY Tennessee is on its way to becoming the most dog-friendly state in the US. The Boyd Foundation, a new philanthropic entity founded by Randy and Jenny Boyd, the founders of PetSafe®, is donating $1 million to a project called the Tennessee Dog Park Dash. This three-year endeavor aims to build and enhance hundreds of dog parks across the state. In its first year, the Tennessee Dog Park Dash will fund 36 dog parks across the state with a grant program. The Boyd Foundation is awarding $900,000 to Tennessee communities evenly distributed across the state, while the final $100,000 will be awarded through a contest to find the most pet-friendly community in the state. Grant and contest winners will be announced in early July. dogparkdash.com
THIS YEAR’S MOST POPULAR BREEDS What your favorite type of dog? The AKC recently released its 2018 list of the most popular dog breeds in the US. While the Labrador retriever is still at the top of the list, making it the longest-ranking breed at number one in the organization’s history, the “Frenchie” is quickly closing in – in just four years, this breed has risen from 76th to fourth place. Here are the top ten breeds for this year:
Retrievers (Labrador) German shepherd dogs Retrievers (golden) French bulldogs Bulldogs Beagles Poodles Rottweilers Yorkshire terriers Pointers (German shorthaired) Visit akc.org for the full list. The French bulldog’s rising popularity may result from the breed’s increasing presence in Hollywood. If you’re thinking of adopting a Frenchie or Frenchie mix, do your homework first. Though cute, good-hearted and obedient, this flat-faced breed is at high risk for respiratory issues – turn to page 58 for more info on brachycephalic breeds like the French bulldog.
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Animal Wellness
Photo courtesy of the Ontario SPCA
Randy and Jenny Boyd are on a mission to make Tennessee the most dog-friendly state in the country.
A volunteer holds a puppy at an animal welfare event in the north.
YEAR OF THE NORTHERN DOG Dog overpopulation is a serious animal welfare issue in northern Canada. To make matters worse, access to spay/neuter services, veterinary care and supplies are limited in this region of the country. In order to bring awareness and solutions to these problems, the Ontario SPCA declared 2018 the Year of the Northern Dog. With help from its partners and volunteers, the organization is working alongside northern communities to help save homeless dogs in need. Here’s how you can help: • Learn about pet overpopulation in the north and spread the word via social media channels. #YearOfTheNorthernDog #SupportTheNorth • Donate much-needed funds, supplies or resources to a program partner. • Adopt a northern dog. Sign up to receive e-blasts whenever northern dogs become available. • Volunteer to be a driver, dog walker, etc. northerndog.com
June/July 2018
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1
yakkity yak CELEBRATING AMERICA’S TOP ANIMAL DEFENDERS We may not hear about them on the nightly news, but there are a lot of people out there working to make the lives of animals better. The Animal Legal Defense Fund has chosen America’s top animal defenders of 2018. They include prosecutors, law enforcement officials, lawmakers and others going who are going above and beyond to protect animals and educate the public on the prevention of animal abuse. This year’s winners include:
Photos courtesy of the Animal Legal Defense Fund
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1. Jessica Rubin, director of legal practice program, University of Connecticut Law School. Professor Rubin was instrumental in creating Desmond’s Law, which created the nation’s first statutory animal advocate position in criminal cruelty cases. 2. Tom Demmery, assistant chief of police, Hollywood, Florida. Ollie the pit bull was stabbed 50 times and left in a suitcase to die. Demmery treated the case with the seriousness it deserved, and instructed detectives to “treat this like a homicide”. They found the abuser, who is now behind bars facing charges of animal cruelty.
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3. Dr. Martha Smith-Blackmore, Massachusetts. A veterinarian, public safety and animal advocate, Dr. Smith-Blackmore uses her expertise in veterinary forensics to assist law enforcement and prosecutors in animal cruelty cases across the US. Her scientific contributions have been critical to countless cases, helping to ensure they’re fully documented and that abusers are brought to justice. aldf.org
KEEP YOUR DOG HYDRATED! Planning to enjoy some fun in the sun with your animal companion this summer? Follow these tips to protect your doggie from dehydration: • Provide easy access to fresh water at all times. • If you notice your dog isn’t drinking, make his H2O more appealing by adding some bone broth. • Traveling? Always carry a large quantity of water to share with your pooch. Collapsible bowls make hydrating easy when on the go. • Don’t let your dog drink from lakes, streams and ponds. These water sources are often contaminated with a parasite called giardia that can cause diarrhea. • Take frequent water breaks in shady areas during walks. • Fit your dog with a specially designed dog pack for carrying his own water bottles. • Never leave your dog alone in a parked car. Temperatures inside the vehicle can rapidly exceed 100°F on a warm day, resulting in heat stroke and even death. animalwellnessmagazine.com/prevent-dog-dehydration/
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Animal Wellness
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AW 20:3
DON'T MISS ANOTHER ISSUE!
By Tammy M. Donaldson, MS, PhD, CAAB
Understanding your dog's
mind and emotions
How smart is your dog? How many emotions does he have access to? Recent research into canine behavior and cognition is yielding some surprising results. 18
Animal Wellness
If you think our dogs know and feel more than we think they do, you’re correct. We live in an age of discovery when it comes to canine behavior, and a multitude of recent studies offer intriguing insights into the cognitive and emotional lives of dogs. We are learning that dogs have a unique bond with us and are more mentally capable than previously believed. Although the jury is still out on their ability to experience complex human emotions such as guilt, shame and jealousy, we do know dogs can read our body language and respond extremely well to it. They can also recognize our faces and decipher our emotions. They look to us for information, and use it to build a relationship with us and maintain their safety. Let’s delve deeper into the canine mind and what we’ve discovered about it in recent years.
DOGS LOOK TO US FOR
EMOTIONAL INFORMATION
Dogs also use information on how a person feels about a situation to determine how they will react, a phenomenon called social referencing. Isabella Merola
OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH DOGS
and others found that when dogs received positive
Dogs have evolved to have a close relationship with us; in fact, studies show that humans are important to dogs. Researchers have found that when dogs interact with their owners, they display responsive behaviors similar to those seen in human infants. Dogs will approach their owners when stressed, use them as a safe base for exploration, and exuberantly reunite with them after separation. These results support the idea that dogs form real bonds to their people. This is rather unique considering that canines and humans are two different species. By exploring this relationship, we can determine what dogs have learned from living with humans and what capacities they have for complex communication, cognition and emotion.
messages from a person approaching an unfamiliar object, they were more likely to also approach the object than dogs who observed a negative message from the person. Dogs responded even more strongly when their owners were the ones giving the messages. This shows that dogs take in emotional information from us and use it to determine how they will respond to a situation.
CANINES HAVE EXCEPTIONAL SOCIAL COMPETENCE Dogs live and work in close association with humans and have therefore developed exceptional social communication skills. This is a form of social competence – the ability to get along with people; knowing what is expected for social interactions; “reading” people’s facial expressions and gestures; recognizing emotions; and communicating effectively. Researchers from dog cognition labs, including the Max Planck Institute and the Duke Canine Cognition Center, have found that dogs routinely outperform chimpanzees in tests of social cognitive ability.
WHAT DO DOGS KNOW ABOUT HUMAN EMOTIONS? Studies show that dogs can recognize our faces. Ludwig Huber and colleagues at the Clever Dog Lab found that dogs discriminate between images of their owners and unfamiliar people. Research by Laura Cuaya and others, using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), demonstrate that dogs use areas of their brains similar to the ones we use for processing human faces and voices. Dogs determine the meaning of our facial expressions using information from multiple facial features (not just the eyes). Continued on page 20. June/July 2018
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Continued from page 19.
DOGS KNOW WHEN WE PAY
ATTENTION TO THEM Studies show that dogs know when we are paying attention to them, and can capitalize on that information. In a study by Brian Call from the Duke Canine Cognition Center, dogs were forbidden to take a piece of food, after which the experimenters either kept their eyes open and on the food, closed their eyes, feigned distraction with a computer game, or turned their backs. The dogs took less food when the people were paying attention to them, but took more during the other three scenarios when the experimenters appeared not to be taking notice of them. Similarly, Marta Gácsi and colleagues at The Clever Dog Lab found that dogs will obey commands faster when the person giving the command is facing them and in sight. They also learned that dogs can tell the difference between intentional communications, such as pointing to food, versus accidental pointing, such as when checking a wristwatch. In another study, Juliane Bräuer at the Max Planck Institute found that dogs know what people can see, and use that information to make choices. In tests during which dogs were challenged with forbidden food, but where a large barrier obstructed the human’s view of the food, the dogs took the food more often than when the person could clearly see it. These findings indicate that dogs know when we are paying attention to them, and use this information to guide their behavior.
Researchers Sanni Somppi and colleagues at the University of Helsinki further found that dogs respond rapidly and with avoidance behavior to threatening facial expressions in people. Dogs also can decode the emotion in our voices. In fMRI studies, Atilla Andics with the Comparative Ethology Research Group found that the brain regions dogs use for processing human voices respond more strongly to positive vocalizations. To further understand what dogs know about our emotional states, Natalia Albuquerque and colleagues presented dogs with human faces that were either happy or angry and paired the presentations with a vocalization that was either positive or negative. Dogs looked longer when the emotion on the face matched the emotion of the vocalization. These findings show that dogs can understand the validity of emotional information, and can process these cues in a similar way we do.
HOW MANY EMOTIONS ARE DOGS CAPABLE OF? We know dogs are fully able to experience simple emotions such as happiness and fear, but what about more complex feelings?
Guilt and shame Dogs are exceptionally good at reading and responding to us, but that muddies the waters when we try to determine if they are actually experiencing the emotions we attribute to them, or are simply reacting to us. In studies of “the guilty look”, Alexandra Horowitz at Horowitz Dog Cognition Lab found that the canine “guilty look” was an appeasement gesture given in response to a person’s behavior or body language, rather than a display of actual guilt. The “guilty look” depends primarily on the person’s behavior (such as scolding) rather than on whether or not the dog is actually feeling guilty. The same concept applies to shame. There are many “dog shame” memes floating around the internet, but are these dogs really showing “shame” or are they simply trying to dispel the ire of an unhappy person? The next time you think your dog is manipulating you, think again; there is likely a simpler explanation for his behavior. This is not to say dogs are incapable of emotions such as guilt or shame; they do have neural structures that correspond to similar structures in the human brain associated with these emotions. But we just don’t know yet.
Jealousy Jealousy is another complex human emotion often attributed to dogs. The Horowitz Dog Cognition lab looked into canine jealousy with a study in which pairs of dogs were asked to
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“sit”. One dog received a consistent reward each time, while the other received either too little or too much reward. The dogs were then allowed to choose which trainer to approach on their own: the fair or “unfair” one. When dogs were under-rewarded, they chose both trainers equally. In the over-rewarding trial, however, the dogs chose the “unfair” trainer. This result suggests the dogs were less concerned with fairness or jealousy, and more driven by which trainer was providing more food.
However, dogs may possess a more primordial form of jealousy-like behavior similar to what has been noted in human infants – competition for parental attention. Christine Harris and Caroline Prouvost tested dogs using a model designed to test for jealousy in human infants. They found the dogs exhibited behaviors consistent with jealousy, such as snapping at the object of their jealousy, getting closer to the owner, pushing the object of jealousy away, or touching the owner when they paid attention to the object. These studies indicate that dogs may not be capable of the complex form of jealousy human adults experience, but they may possess this emotion in a simpler form.
FUTURE STUDIES We aren’t finished learning about the minds and emotions of our canine companions. Future studies may further evolve our perceptions of what our dogs are capable of doing and feeling. For now, know that your dog is bonded to you and looks to you for information on how to navigate his world. Be careful not to betray this relationship by attributing negative motivations to him when you feel he misbehaves. There is often a much simpler, more innocent – and more inherently canine – motivation underlying his behavior!
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NATU RAL R E M E DIES FOR
CANINE ANXIETY By Patrick Mahaney, VMD, CVA
Is your dog a “nervous Nelly?“ Anxious behaviors are common in our canine companions, so here’s how to help him chill using a holistic, natural approach.
In my holistic veterinary practice, I always strive to reduce my patients’ reliance on medications by taking a multi-modal approach to their healthcare. Although it takes dedication on behalf of the veterinary and client care-providing team, it can reduce a patient’s reliance on behavior-modifying medications with potential side effects. Here are some of the modalities and remedies I use for my canine patients.
1. LIFESTYLE MODIFICATIONS One of the most effective (and least expensive) means of naturally reducing anxiety occurs through exercise and other forms of behavioral stimulation. If your dog suffers from anxiety, exercise is one means by which you can help him. Young and highly energetic breeds (border collie, Jack Russell terrier, Weimaraner, etc.) and their mixes generally need more activity to “get out the crazies” than do senior and more sedentary canines. Chasing a ball or Frisbee, playing with other dogs, going for a run or hike, and other vigorous activities are suitable for many youngsters. Older dogs and those with illnesses or mobility issues may get sufficient behavioral stimulation from
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less intense and lower-impact activities like walking around the neighborhood or having a canine buddy come over to hang out. Non-exercise options for stimulation include toys, treat dispensers and more. Besides providing behavioral stimulation, exercise promotes your dog’s cardiac output, tissue oxygenation, lymphatic drainage, metabolism, lean muscle mass and more.
2. PHEROMONE COLLARS AND DIFFUSERS Dogs naturally exude pheromones, hormone-like chemicals which create signals that are picked up by other animals and can influence behaviors. Products like DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) can help calm an anxious pooch and come in collar, diffuser and spray versions. They have been quite beneficial for clients of mine who find it challenging to get oral products into their dogs, or for patients with digestive tract upsets that could be exacerbated by oral medications or supplements.
3. COMPRESSION SHIRTS These shirt-like garments for dogs function like a baby’s swaddling blanket and have an anxietyreducing effect. The Thundershirt
Photo courtesy of Thundershirt
Is your dog anxious? Not only are anxious behaviors difficult to deal with, but they can have a detrimental effect on your dog’s health and well-being. Taking a holistic approach to your canine companion’s anxiety can not only calm him down and improve his quality of life, but also avoids the potentially nasty side effects of conventional meds.
is arguably the most popular compression shirt available. It’s well-tolerated by dogs and is a non-invasive means of reducing anxiety from thunderstorms and other triggers. “It calms a dog by applying gentle, constant pressure around the torso,” says CEO and founder Phil Blizzard. “It’s believed that this pressure releases oxytocin, a calming hormone.”
4. PRODUCTS FOR INAPPROPRIATE ELIMINATORS Inappropriate elimination (urination and defecation) is another manifestation of anxiety. Dogs are biologically programmed to not soil their beds or personal space, so they are less likely to act on the urge to inappropriately eliminate when they wear some form of garment that covers their penis, vulva or anus. For male dogs, a belly band, which resembles a belt and covers the penis, can deter the urge to stream or dribble urine. For female inappropriate urinators, and dogs of either sex prone to improperly defecating, doggie diapers that cover the hind end can deter the urge to poop.
5. ACUPUNCTURE, ACUPRESSURE AND MASSAGE Acupuncture involves the insertion of needles into the body to stimulate points along the body’s 12 meridians. It promotes blood circulation, modulates the nervous system’s sensation and motor response, and releases anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving chemicals. Liquids such as vitamin B12 or chondroprotectant medications can also be injected into acupuncture points. Continued on page 24.
HOW CAN I TELL IF MY DOG IS ANXIOUS? Anxiety in dogs can manifest in many ways. Airplane and car rides, thunderstorms, fireworks, and the presence of other pets or unfamiliar animals in the home or yard are just some examples of anxiety triggers. One of the most common forms of anxiety in dogs is separation anxiety. When a dog is kept apart from a person to whom he’s attached, he may exhibit the following behaviors: • Vocalizing (barking, howling, whining) • Destructive tendencies (biting/tearing, scratching) • Behavior changes (lethargy, increased tendency to sleep) • Agitation (pacing, repeatedly walking a particular route around the house or yard) • Ptyalism (salivation/drooling) • Tachypnea (panting, increased respiratory effort) • Inappropriate elimination (urination and defecation) • Pica (consumption of non-edible materials) • Digestive tract upset (reduced appetite, vomiting, diarrhea) June/July 2018
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A topic of some controversy in veterinary medicine is the use of extracts from the Cannabis sativa L. plant (marijuana) for medicinal purposes, such as calming anxiety. Mammals posses an endocannabinoid system (ECS) in their bodies. This system comprises a series of cannabinoid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, immune system cells, fat, kidneys, liver, muscles, salivary glands, skin and other tissues. Cannabinoids are naturally produced by the body and act to modulate appetite, behavior, inflammation, pain, organ system function and more.
Cannabis sativa L. contains two primary phytocannabinoids (plant-based cannabinoids) – cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD is non-psychoactive (mindaltering) and can have antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-convulsant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and sedating effects. THC has psychoactive qualities and induces euphoria, as well as having analgesic, anti-convulsant, anti-emetic, anti-inflammatory and other medicinal properties. At this time, it’s illegal for veterinarians to dispense or even consult with clients about cannabis extracts for their animals, since marijuana is still considered a Schedule 1 illegal drug by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Studies involving the use of medical marijuana to treat arthritis and seizure disorders in pets are currently underway at Colorado State University. The results may help facilitate the recognition of cannabis extracts as a useful medicinal tool for pets.
Continued from page 23. Electricity (electrostimulation), heat (moxibustion) or laser can be applied to needles or tissues to stimulate an energetic change. Acupressure, which applies pressure to acupuncture points, as well as massage, can elicit a response comparable to acupuncture. You can be instructed on acupressure and massage techniques that have a calming effect, so treatment can be done on an asneeded basis.
For anxious patients, foods and treats should have cooling energetic properties to quell excess yang. Examples include: • Protein: cottage cheese, duck, fish (e.g. salmon, tuna), goose, pheasant, rabbit, tofu, turkey, yogurt • Vegetables/fruit: banana, broccoli, cranberry cucumber, eggplant, lettuce, melon, mint, mushroom, pear, spinach, tomato • Grains/beans: barley, buckwheat, brown rice, millet, quinoa, wheat/wheat bran Fresh, non- to minimally-cooked foods are best.
7. NUTRACEUTICALS (SUPPLEMENTS) AND HERBS Natural products I’ve used for canine anxiety include Bach Flower essences, melatonin, theanine, tryptophan and various herbal combinations. Three of my preferred products are Jing Tang Herbal Shen Calmer, Bach’s Rescue Remedy Pet, and Rx Vitamins for Pets’ Nutricalm.
Editor’s note:
CANNABIS EXTRACTS HAVE CALMING EFFECT
Generally, anxious behaviors are due to an excess of energy manifested from the interior of the body (although they can also be affected by exterior factors). Anxiety is associated with heat negatively affecting the Shen (spirit), and is considered to have yang qualities (warming, drying, uplifting and masculine).
Another product to help ease anxiety is Zesty Paws Calming Bites. “These chewable treats promote nondrowsy composure to help dogs feel more at ease in their surroundings,“ says Julia Yochum, Marketing Manager. “They feature Suntheanine®, a 100% pure non-GMO form of L-theanine. It safely stimulates the brain’s alpha waves to help dogs feel calm yet alert in conditions that trigger stress and anxiety. The formula also contains hemp, thiamine, chamomile, valerian root, and L-tryptophan, all of which can reduce anxiety.“
Acupuncture points associated with eliciting behavior changes include GV 20, HT 7 (Spirit Gate), ST 40 (Master Point for Phlegm), BL 15 (Association Point for the Heart), CV 14 (Mu/ Master Point of the Heart), CV 22 (Influential Point for Phlegm) and others.
Before trying any new herbs or supplements, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian appropriately trained in their use. I’ve used a combination of herbs, acupuncture and acupressure to successfully reduce anxiety in canine patients, and reduce reliance on medications.
6. CHINESE MEDICINE FOOD ENERGY TREATMENT
If you and your vet are unable to improve your dog’s anxious behaviors with the recommendations in this article, consult with a board-certified veterinary behavior specialist. In most cases, however, using a holistic approach with natural remedies will effectively ease your dog’s anxiety.
According to Eight Principle Theory in Traditional Chinese Medicine, there are eight types of energy capable of affecting the body: excess, deficiency, interior, exterior, hot, cold, yin and yang.
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WHY
interactive toys ARE GOOD FOR YOUR DOG Interactive toys offer many benefits to your dog – they provide mental stimulation and combat boredom, satisfy his natural instincts, and make mealtime more fun. By Emily Watson
Dogs need mental stimulation in order to thrive. Without it, they’re likely to become stressed, anxious and bored. Eventually, these emotional imbalances cause dogs to seek other ways to occupy their time, and that often translates to destructive behaviors such as inappropriate urination, chewing and digging. If any of this sounds familiar, don’t fret. Interactive dog toys offer a simple, effective and fun solution.
Top 7 benefits of interactive toys Interactive toys are designed to stimulate a dog’s brain and satisfy natural canine behaviors. Our dogs’ ancestors weren’t fed out of bowls. They foraged and hunted for their food – an innate drive that hasn’t disappeared with domestication. Our canine companions still enjoy working, and it’s up to us to ensure they have ways to do so. Toys designed to arouse your dog’s senses and engage his problem-solving skills are a great way to fulfil this need. Here are seven benefits of interactive toys:
1. Mental stimulation – Interactive toys encourage your dog to solve problems, which can strengthen his mental faculties and prevent dementia later in life. 2. Self-entertainment – Alleviate boredom by encouraging your dog to play by himself! Interactive toys are especially beneficial when you’re out or when the weather is too poor to be outside much. 3. Weight management – While they’re no substitute for walks and romps in the park, interactive toys give canine couch potatoes a reason to move.
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4. Stress and anxiety relief – When occupied, dogs are less likely to engage in potentially destructive behaviors caused by stressed or anxious emotions. 5. Satisfy natural hunting instincts – The type of play promoted by interactive toys enriches your dog’s life by stimulating the part of his brain his ancestors used when hunting and foraging. 6. Help slow down eating – If your dog inhales his food, he could be at risk for choking, vomiting and even canine bloat. Slow-feed bowls are one solution to this common problem, but interactive toys that dispense food or treats offer the same benefit in a much more entertaining manner. 7. Give him a job to do – Most dogs like to be busy, so it’s important to give him a job before he finds one of his own. In other words, interactive toys might help extend the life of your shoes and couch cushions.
Interactive toy types When seeking an appropriate interactive toy for your dog, it’s important to consider his age, breed, personality and skill level. If he’s a chewer, look for a durable toy made of non-toxic rubber. If you’re hoping to slow down his eating, choose a treatdispending toy that’ll make him work for his food. To alleviate boredom, reach for a puzzle toy. Here’s a quick look at the types of toys available: Vessel toys come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and require the dog to extract food from inside using his mouth – and his brain!
Sensory toys are designed to occupy your dog and stimulate his senses by emitting a series of sounds, words and/or movements. They range from classic squeak toys to robotic toys that can be controlled from your Smartphone. Treat dispensers encourage your companion to tilt, roll and maneuver the toy using his nose and paws until a goody is released through a small hole. Ball launchers are electronic mechanisms that play fetch with your dog. These high-tech gadgets encourage dogs to play by shooting balls for them to chase. Train your dog to return the ball to the machine for ongoing fun! Puzzle toys have knobs, levers, buttons and other elements. Nooks and crannies covered by flaps can only be opened when the right actions are taken by your dog, thereby engaging his problem-solving skills. Video games for dogs involve electronic devices or apps with built-in sensors that feature one or more of the above elements – sounds, buttons, etc. They lure your dog in by moving or making noise and respond when he interacts with the device. Keep in mind that no matter what type of interactive toy you choose, most dogs are quick to solve the problem. To keep him motivated, advance your pup to more difficult toys once he’s mastered the simpler ones.
A few words of
CAUTION
Many interactive toys aren’t meant to be chewed, so it’s important to keep an eye on your dog to ensure his engagement with the toy doesn’t involve excessive biting or gnawing. Don’t let toys replace exercise and quality time with your pup. While they’re a great way to occupy him for short periods, they’re no substitute for love and quality care. Look for safe, durable, high quality, non-toxic products. Even if your dog is never left alone with the toy, it’s still likely to undergo a few hard chomps now and then. Quality toys will hold up under pressure, keep your dog’s teeth safe from chips and cracks, and prevent him from ingesting something he shouldn’t. If you’re planning to use toys that dispense food and treats, be sure you’re not overfeeding your dog. Use interactive feeders as a way to make mealtime more engaging, rather than giving him extra calories he doesn’t need between meals.
Interactive toys encourage your dog to solve problems, which can strengthen his mental faculties and prevent dementia later in life.
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A short
history of dog training By Sarah Ann Gray
From cruelty to kindness – how our approach to dog training has become more enlightened. Dog training has come a long way in the past few decades. It wasn’t so long ago that trainers used punishment, intimidation and cruel equipment to train dogs, and sadly, some trainers still use these methods and tools today. But an ever-increasing number of trainers are turning to gentle, positive, reward-based training techniques. This article will look at the evolution of dog training, and how we’ve become more enlightened when it comes to teaching our canine companions.
Edward Lee Thorndike (1874-1949) was one of the first to apply a scientific and statistical approach to motivational education and the use of positive reinforcement. He discovered that behaviors producing a desired effect are more likely to be repeated, while behaviors that produce an unpleasant effect aren’t. Thorndike called this the “Law of Effect”. Understanding how this phenomenon motivates canine behavior became the key to understanding how to encourage or discourage a dog’s behavior and is fundamental to effective training.
THE BIRTH OF ANIMAL PSYCHOLOGY One of the first documented studies of animal behavior involves the story of a horse named Clever Hans. Right around the turn of the 20th century, Clever Hans gained notoriety for solving arithmetic problems. Oskar Pfungst, a student at the Psychological Institute of Berlin in 1907, studied the supposedly numerically-gifted equine. He concluded that although Hans may indeed have been clever, he wasn’t actually counting. Rather, the horse was reading his handler’s unintentional cues to show he had “solved” the problems. Clever Hans didn’t win any mathematical scholarships, but he did point out the need for more empirical methods of studying animal behavior. Around the same time, scientist Ivan Pavlov was studying the canine digestive system. He noticed his dog subjects would salivate when presented with food. In one of his most famous experiments, Pavlov presented a specific sound to his canine subjects just prior to feeding them. With repeated trials, he noticed the dogs would salivate in response to the sound, even when the food was not present. The anticipation of the food produced the same effect as the food itself. This associative process, termed “classical conditioning”, became the foundation for our current understanding of animal behavior.
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One of the most well known figures in the field of behaviorism, Burrhus Frederic (B.F.) Skinner (1904-1980) created a device for measuring animal behavior – the now famous Skinner Box. The apparatus contained a lever, a slot for food rewards, and a source of water. The animal would be placed inside the box and would begin to move around. Without much to explore, it would eventually hit on the lever – and viola, food would drop into the tray. Soon enough, the animal learned that pressing the lever delivered a reward, and “operant conditioning” was born. Skinner’s work built on Thorndike’s Law of Effect, but revealed a much more detailed picture of the principles of learning. He thus had a huge impact on the field of modern dog training. From Skinner’s work, we know that desired behaviors should be reinforced, that behaviors can be shaped in incremental steps, and that immediate rather than delayed reinforcement facilitates the most reliable learning.
DOG TRAINING DURING THE WORLD WARS Dog training as a profession got off to a rocky start during the two World Wars, primarily due to the demand for trained military dogs. This spurred the “Revolution of Compulsion”, when dogs were
trained using harsh punitive methods. Konrad Most, credited with this movement, played a role in the formation of the German Canine Research Society and Society for Animal Psychology. His aversive punishment-based methods were popularized in his book, Training Dogs: A Manual, first published in 1910. The military took fast to Konrad’s principles of training, and passed on this knowledge to many in its ranks. The US Government lent “credibility” to Most’s harsh training methods, and soon the general public adopted the same aversive techniques with their own dogs. Such methods have proven resilient, and some of today’s trainers continue to espouse similar training techniques.
THE RISE OF FORCE-FREE, REWARD-BASED TRAINING Fortunately, the movement towards gentler training methods began in the years following WWII, when B.F. Skinner’s work was popularized by two of his students, Keller and Marian Breland. Their work fostered humane training methods and promoted their use worldwide. In 1947, the Brelands founded Animal Behavior Enterprises, which brought together the fields of professional animal training and modern behavior science. Their mission was to try to teach people a more humane way of training animals. Using the tenants of operant conditioning, they trained thousands of animals for a variety of purposes. The Brelands moved the dog training field towards an alternative educational process that relied on kindness rather than force. Several years after Keller Breland passed away, Marian married Bob Bailey, the first director of training in the Navy's Marine Mammal Program. The couple worked with
QUICK FACTS
ABOUT THE EVOLUTION OF DOG TRAINING Dogs and people have been teaming up for centuries, but you’d have a hard time finding anything written about formal dog training prior to the 1800s. From the records we do have, it’s pretty evident that the positive reinforcement dog training movement didn’t arise until the late 20th century. Prior to then, the human/canine relationship hasn’t always proven easy for the dog, as we humans often resorted to using the stick over the carrot. Yet as our understanding of canine behavior has slowly grown, so too has our empathy and compassion, and we have evolved more humane ways of understanding and communicating with dogs. Today’s positive reinforcement dog training methods have their origins in clinical scientific experimentation, but they have at their core the fundamental principles of kindness.
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THE 21 CENTURY ST
– SOLIDIFYING THE FOUNDATION OF HUMANE TRAINING In addition to the important figures discussed in this article, a number of notable trainers helped consolidate the movement for humane, positive-reinforcement dog training in the 21st century. There are too many mention here, but they include: • Dr Michael W. Fox – author, veterinarian and animal behaviorist (drfoxvet.net) • Dr. Karen Overall – authored the Manual of Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Dogs and Cats, and diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behavior (dacvb.org) • Paul Owens – the original Dog Whisperer, renowned trainer and author (originaldogwhisperer.com) • Victoria Stilwell – famous dog trainer, author, and presenter of Animal Planet's hit TV series It's Me or the Dog (positively.com) • Nicole Wilde – prolific author and international presenter (nicolewilde.com) • Dr. Sophia Yin (deceased) – veterinarian and internationally-respected trainer and author
Canine Companions for Independence, a non-profit organization that trains dogs to assist disabled individuals. The Baileys’contribution to positive reinforcement dog training cannot be overstated.
DOG TRAINING IN THE 80s AND 90s Many dog trainers came along in the in the 50s, 60s and 70s, but it was Karen Pryor’s Don’t Shoot the Dog, published in 1984, that provided a strong foothold for today’s force-free, reward-based training methods. She introduced the mainstream dog training community to clicker training, which helped propel force-free, science-based humane training methods to new heights around the world. No history of reward-based dog training would be complete without mentioning Dr. Ian Dunbar. A veterinarian and animal behaviorist, he has authored several books, and in 1982, began teaching off-leash puppy socialization and training classes. He also created and developed the San Francisco SPCA's Animal Behavior Department. In 1993, Dunbar founded the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and over the past 35 years, he has given over 1,000 presentations around the world in an effort to popularize puppy socialization and dog-friendly training. Another trainer of note is Terry Ryan, an award-winning author who began training dogs in 1968. According to legacycanine.com, “She was Program Coordinator for the Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, from 1981 until 1994. The programs involved the study of the human-animal bond and implementation of animal-assisted therapy programs. She was one of the original members of the Delta Society (now called Pet Partners), an international resource on the human-animal bond. Terry wrote some of Delta’s early training literature and was one of the first Delta Pet Partners animal evaluators. She presented several times at The International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organization’s Symposiums.” Along with Bob and Marian Bailey, Ryan held training camps around the world to introduce positive reinforcement training to a growing number of trainers, demonstrating how operant conditioning could be made more accessible and applicable to dog behavior. Now, with the arrival of the 21st century, a growing number of well-known positive trainers are strengthening the movement toward compassionate, reward-based training (see sidebar at top left). Thanks to all these dedicated individuals, a new way of thinking about training the family dog has taken root. The aversive methods prevalent in earlier decades, such as hitting, jerking, shocking and pinning, have gradually but steadily given way to kinder, more humane and compassionate training. The result is happier, healthier, better-behaved dogs!
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Service, therapy & emotional support dogs By Anabelle Lee Macri
{
The terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but there’s a difference between these three working dog classifications.
O
{
ur canine companions enjoy having a job. Many become support, service and therapy dogs for people who need physical or emotional assistance. Among other things, these dogs might serve as someone’s eyes and ears, help a disabled person regain independence after an illness or injury, or aid a military veteran suffering from PTSD. But the words “support”, “service” and “therapy” aren’t interchangeable. Discovering the difference between these three working dog classifications will help enhance your appreciation for what these clever canines can do.
1. EMOTIONAL SUPPORT DOGS Unlike many other working dogs, emotional support dogs don’t necessarily perform specific tasks. Their chief purpose is to provide companionship, affection and support to people with diagnosed mental and emotional disabilities, such as PTSD, autism, anxiety and panic attacks, depression and various phobias. One organization that trains dogs for emotional support work (among other types of work) is Southeastern Guide Dogs in Palmetto, Florida. This organization has its own breeding colony. “We have a genetics and reproduction department, medical team and two veterinarians,” says Suzy Wilburn, Director of Admissions and Alumni Support. “We train dogs for several careers, including emotional support.” In order to adopt an emotional support dog from Southeastern Guide Dogs, you are required to participate in a three-day training course. During this time, you will learn how to practice basic obedience with the dog, as well as how to maintain his training. The organization also requires an official written or typed letter from a current physician stating your
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need for an emotional support dog. Other requirements include phone interviews, background checks and in-home visits.
2. SERVICE DOGS Service dogs (including guide dogs) help people who are physically disabled by illness or injury, including those who are visionimpaired, are confined to a wheelchair, or have other health issues that limit their lives. Many of these individuals are unable to perform daily tasks without assistance. A service dog can give them greater independence by doing some of these tasks for them, whether it’s fetching something or guiding them through unfamiliar environments. Service dogs are trained to understand and respond to particular disabilities. Some can even alert their people to an imminent seizure or other dangerous medical event, and prompt them to take any necessary action to prevent a crisis. Comprehensive Pet Therapy Inc. is another training facility for those in need of service as well as support and therapy dogs, although they don’t raise their own dogs. “We train dogs for the hearing impaired and for seizure assistance,” says trainer Patricia King. “These dogs come to us after being purchased by their owners, and spend three different time periods with us over the course of 18 months. We begin with basic obedience commands, transitioning to more serviceoriented training, and after that, we begin public access training for service work. In between these training sessions, the dogs go home to bond with their families and to mature.”
Photo courtesy of Southeastern Guide Dogs
Southeastern Guide Dogs also has training programs for service and guide dogs. During a 12-day stay at their campus facility, you
Mae is a member of Southeastern Guide Dogs, and is learning how to work in a mall environment.
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{
{
“We train dogs for the hearing impaired and for seizure assistance.”
THE RIGHT TEMPERAMENT
will practice commands with the service dog that best mitigates your disability. The dog will have already been trained to master these commands, but during your stay at the facility, the training is customized to fit your needs, and to help you learn how to interact with the dog. The organization has accommodations where you and your dog can live together to help form a purposeful bond. The organization also matches highly trained dogs with the visually impaired; these students train at the campus facility for 20 versus 12 days, and learn how to navigate private and public areas with a guide dog.
3. THERAPY DOGS Unlike support and service or guide dogs, therapy dogs are trained to help other people besides their owners or handlers. These dogs are often taken into hospitals and nursing homes to provide stimulation and therapeutic support to patients and residents. Other therapy dogs go into schools for educational purposes or to serve as “reading buddies” for children who are having difficulties with literacy.
Having a good temperament is vital for service, support and therapy dogs. These working dogs need to be calm, focused, and comfortable around people and other animals. They know they’re working whenever they’re wearing their special vests or collars, and are able to ignore distractions and control behavioral impulses.
Service, support and therapy dogs can make a huge difference to people in need. “Carson is my life,” says Suzy Wilburn, a director for Southeastern Guide Dogs and recipient of her own guide dog. “He saves me every day. He’s my eyes, my heart; he’s everything to me. I wish I could put into words how much he has changed my life. He’s made me a better person and a happier one. In fact, I would rather be blind with Carson than fully sighted without him.”
Comprehensive Pet Therapy Inc. trains dogs for therapy work, such as visits to nursing homes and hospitals. “Typically, handlers will also join a canine therapy group such as Happy Tails Pet Therapy to register the dog, test him for obedience and determine his temperament to insure his handler for this type of canine support work,” says Patricia. “It’s important to the facilities involved that these requirements are met.” Southeastern Guide Dogs also trains therapy dogs. These dogs live with the facility’s staff and spend several days a week with military veterans who are recovering from illness or injury at military hospitals and veteran medical centers. The dogs visit with the patients to facilitate their healing process. The organization welcomes applications for volunteers for its therapy dog program – the applications can be accessed online (guidedogs.org).
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Puppy raisers from Canine Companions for Independence recently attended one of Patricia King’s training classes. Cal is being raised by Deborah Katz; he is being taught commands that will prepare him for more professional service-oriented training later on.
Behavioral, Mental & Emotional Well-being
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feature
Calming Pheromones for Cats Mimicking the natural pheromones of nursing mothers and facial marking, ThunderEase can help your cats stay calm through all kinds of stressful situations including vet visits, separation, and fireworks. Veterinarian recommended and 100% satisfaction guaranteed. Available in diffusers and sprays. ThunderEase.com
Hands Free, Fits Your Lifestyle Versatile, Flexible, Practical...that’s what Smoochy Poochy’s pet gear line is all about. Featuring Smoochy’s multi-functional dog leash, available in an array of colors, made out of durable nylon webbing and a ‘leather like’ material. Great for just about anything: hiking, walking, training, holding hands, visiting, and much more! PetsFuture.com info@smoochypoochy.com 905-596-2275
Hurtta X-Sport Harness This harness is designed for active dogs! Thanks to the durable, waterproof padding, the harness is both comfortable and robust. It focuses the pressure at the correct spot on the dog’s chest, thus optimising the pulling strength. Available at AnimalWellnessMarket.com
Essential oils and emotional balance Aromatherapy can help balance your pet’s emotions. If he’s prone to anxiety, aggression or fear, try Young Living essential oils. These authentic oils promote emotional and mental wellness. Our expert holistic veterinarians can guide you in choosing the right oils for your animal companion. YLVetsAndPets.com
Balance his endocrine system Keeping your animal healthy means maintaining the balance of his endocrine system. Not sure where to start? Try Vitex herbal mix. This formula contains Vitex Agnus Castus (Chaste Tree Berries), as well as five other herbs designed to support endocrine and glandular wellness. ChavaNaturals.com June/July 2018
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BY SANDRA MURPHY
DOGFRIENDLY BREWERIES Looking for something different to do with your dog? How about visiting a dog-friendly craft brewery? While you sample the suds, your canine companion can enjoy your company and socialize with other pooches.
F
or dog lovers who enjoy a cold one on a warm afternoon, what could be better than a canine-friendly brewery? Craft breweries across the country have been opening their establishments to dogs. According to Trips with Pets, you can find dog-friendly craft breweries in every state, from California to Florida. (They’re harder to find in Canada, at least for now, but they do exist.) This is just a taste of where you can go to sample some suds – and bring your dog along!
FLORIDA: “I enjoy the local craft brewery scene in Jacksonville,” says J. R. Duren, a personal finance writer. “My favorite, Aardwolf Brewery, allows dogs in their drinking room. Bringing dogs into a brewery reminds me of the days when everyone in the neighborhood got together for drinks.”
NORTH CAROLINA: Dog-friendly breweries abound in this state. “We held six Yappy Hour fundraisers for animal rescues/shelters at dog-friendly breweries here,” says Kim Salerno, founder and president of Trips with Pets. “Each one broke records for attendance and funds raised.”
ILLINOIS: Eileen Garrity works for two brewpubs, DryHop Brewers and Corridor Brewery & Provisions, both in Chicago. “Since we’re a restaurant as well as a brewery, we’re unable to invite dogs inside our spaces,” she says. “But dogs can relax with their owners on our outdoor sidewalk patios, where they can enjoy shady spots and a cool drink of water.”
OHIO: Athens County is a hotspot for dog-friendly breweries, including Devil's Kettle Brewing; Eclipse Company Store and Beer Hall; Jacki O's Taproom and Production Brewery; Little Fish Brewing Company; and Multiple Brewing.
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MINNESOTA: In Minneapolis, a variance was passed that permits leashed dogs inside breweries. “Breweries are not permitted to serve food if they allow dogs, but food trucks can be present, and patrons can carry in food from elsewhere,” says Ali Jacobs, founder and CEO of Sidewalk Dog Media. “We offer a reasonably-priced Indoor Brewery Pass for a free beer from each of ten local brew houses, and you can bring your dog. A portion of the proceeds goes to Can Do Canines, an organization providing assistance dogs at no charge to those with hearing, seizure, diabetes, autism, or mobility challenges.”
TEXAS: The small neighborhood of Pearl in Austin is home to Southerleigh Brewery, where guests can enjoy one of 20 beers on tap while spending time with their dogs. Chef and owner, Jeff Balfour, and his two adopted pit bulls, are strong animal shelter supporters, and hold adoption events on the patio.
CALIFORNIA: Golden Road Brewing in Los Angeles is just one of many west coast breweries where you can enjoy a cold craft beer in the company of your canine.
ONTARIO: Toronto is one Canadian city that boasts several dog-friendly breweries, including the Henderson Brewing Co. and the Left Field Brewery. “Dogs bring people together,” Kim says. “For example, women who might be uncomfortable going to a brewery alone are willing to go with their dogs. Conversation is easy when someone is guessing your dog’s breed, size or where you adopted him!”
12 TIPS FOR THE BEST BREWERY EXPERIENCE 1. Some breweries only allow dogs on outdoor patios, while others invite them inside – it depends on local laws and/or whether or not the brewery offers food as well as beer.
5. Make sure your dog has fresh water. Many breweries offer water for canine customers, but don’t let your dog drink from a communal bowl. Bring his own. If you wish, you can also bring water from home for him.
2. Be aware that brewery laws and policies can change at any time, so check ahead to ensure any establishment you’re visiting is still dog-friendly.
6. Salty pretzels and peanuts are commonly served with beer but aren’t good for your dog, so bring a few small treats along.
3. Know that beer is toxic for dogs, so make absolutely sure he doesn’t drink any!
7. Poop bags are an absolute must. You know what to do. Paper towels for wet accidents and disinfecting wipes are also important.
4. A shady spot is a must on hot outdoor patios. Your dog is lower to the ground than you are; radiant heat reflects up on his underside so he feels the heat long before you do.
8. Ensure your dog enjoys socializing before taking him to a brewery. Some dogs thrive on stimulation, but others are happier in quiet environments away from other dogs, people and noise.
FIND A DOG-FRIENDLY BREWERY NEAR YOU • Trips with Pets provide a list of dog-friendly breweries at tinyurl.com/y7w5pxrn. • Dogs on Tap offers a database of canine-friendly craft breweries at dogsontap.com/dog-friendly-breweries-2. • Want to take photos of your dog and your brew? Find tips at dogsontap.com/category/diy, then post your pics on Instagram. You can also find eight craft beer dogs to follow on Instagram via tinyurl.com/ycjgqhdg.
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You’d think that dogs and play would go together like apples and cinnamon, and in most cases, they do. But depending on how a dog was raised and treated, he may not enjoy or even know how to play.
Dogs that By Tonya Wilhelm
DON’ T LIKE TO PLAY Most dogs live life to the fullest, and love to play by themselves or with their humans. Toss a toy their way and they pounce, toss, wiggle and have a great time. But there are also dogs who don't seem to grasp how to play, or who have a low play drive. Why does this happen, and how can we teach these dogs to enjoy play? Let's start by defining “play”, so we are on the same page. According to the Collins Dictionary (collinsdictionary.com), “When children, animals, or adults play, they spend time doing enjoyable things, such as using toys and taking part in games.” The takeaway word is “enjoyable”. If the activity isn’t enjoyable for both parties, it’s not play. We need to remember this whenever we interact with our dogs”.
WHY A DOG MAY NOT ENJOY PLAY In my experience, dogs don't play with their humans for two reasons.
1. They weren’t brought up to play during their puppyhood and developmental period,
and/or 2. They were reprimanded for playing “wrong”. Puppies brought up playing a variety of games with a variety of people become good players and grow into more confident and
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engaging dogs. On the other hand, if a dog is trying to play with someone, but the person reprimands or scares him, the dog will learn not to play, with negative behavioral consequences. The same applies to a dog who was never given enjoyable human contact while growing up.
HOW TO RESTART PLAY If you have or know of a dog that doesn’t seem to know how to play, there are ways to help him learn while having fun in process. With some simple guidelines, a positive attitude and patience, he can soon be up and playing with the best of them.
1. Stay positive Remember, the definition of play includes the word “enjoyable”. During playtime with a dog, always be positive, fun and encouraging. Don't use words such as “no”, “wrong”, etc. The same goes for your body language. Dogs are amazing at reading human body language, so don't slump or seem disappointed. You want to teach the dog to fully trust you and feel confident about trying anything.
2. Consider the dog’s comfort level It's always important to understand your dog's comfort level, and what makes him happy, nervous or excited. Some playdeprived dogs are very nervous, and startle at the smallest gesture or change in voice. For these dogs, it's important to continually monitor his enjoyment versus his stress levels. You may need to actively tone down your intensity to match his style.
3. Know what he likes to do What does your dog like doing best? Does he like sniffing, chasing, using his feet or touching you? Don't be discouraged if he doesn’t have in interest in dog toys; play does not have to include an object. It's about connecting and enjoying each other. When introducing play to your dog, choose the behavior your dog seems to enjoy most (see sidebar at right).
“FIND IT” – A BEGINNER GAME FOR PLAY-DEPRIVED DOGS “Find the treat” is a great game for most dogs, and a good place to start with a dog that doesn’t enjoy or know how to play. The object is for the dog to find treats you hide around the house. All you need for this game are healthy treats – 100% meat tends to be best because of its high scent, making the treats easier for the dog to find in the beginning stage. Start by showing your dog the treats. Ask him to stay, if he knows this behavior, and place one treat five feet in front of him. Then tell him to “find it” as you encourage him to get up and eat the treat. Right after he eats it, give him a second treat for being so smart. If the dog doesn't know how to stay, just tell him to “find it” as you toss the treat right in front of him. Once again, give him a second treat right after he eats the first. Continued on page 40.
GAMES
DOGS PLAY When choosing a game or form of play for your dog, think about the things he likes to do most. Play doesn’t always have to involve toys. It can include: • Petting, rubbing, nose or paw targeting • Chasing you • Tricks and training • Sniffing walks • Obstacle training Toys meet different needs depending on the dog’s activity preferences: • Food-dispensing toys • Fetch toys • Tug toys • Chase toys
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Continued from page 39. Practice this fun game a few times a day. At this stage, you are teaching your dog two things:
1. “Find it” means he's going to get a treat. 2. You are a great person to play with. (Yes, this is play!) As your dog starts to understand this game, increase the distance of your treat placement or toss. Instead of five feet, move it to ten, 15 and so on. Finally, the dog's treats will be out of sight and he must search for them. Prep him with a few easy “find its”. Then put him in the next room and close the door, place a handful of treats about ten feet from the closed door, open the door and happily say, “find it”. Watch your dog light up as he sees his loot! Repeat this sequence about four more times. On the fifth set, place the pile of treats about 15 feet out from the door and off to the side. Now, your dog will need to start looking for the treats. Gradually make it more challenging for him to find the treat stash. Over time, you and your dog will become masters at this game. When he can easily find hidden stashes of treats, you can start decreasing the number of treats in the pile and place single treats around the house for him to find. This will also really start to exercise his scenting ability. Once your dog understands the basic concept of “find it”, you can teach him to find other objects such as his dinner, meaty bones, yourself, and any toys he happens to like. Remember: if he doesn't have a desire for the object, then he won't have a desire for the game. If he's not a ball dog, for example, asking him to find a ball won't be very fun or successful. But sneaking out of the room, ducking behind the curtains and saying “find me” as your dog runs around looking for you can be loads of fun when he finds you. As an extra bonus, give him some treats when he finds you. If your dog isn't having any luck finding you, make a bit of noise to make it easier for him. Teaching a dog to play is a powerful way to interact with him. Not only will you both have fun, but you will be creating a bond with him and helping him build confidence and trust in you and in life. Play is not a frivolous activity, but something every dog should know how to do, for his own physical, social, mental and emotional well-being. Now, go have fun!
During playtime with a dog, always be positive, fun and
encouraging.
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Business Profile
This veterinarian offers her own line of high quality essential oils, formulated for the health and well-being of companion animals. By Matthew Berk
W
ith their numerous health benefits, and ability to enhance the atmosphere of almost any space, essential oils have become very popular and are widely available. Trouble is, a lot of essential oil products are low in quality, which means they can be harmful to both people and their pets. Veterinarian Dr. Melissa Shelton (pictured above) is a big believer in the offerings of aromatherapy, and has been using essential oils in her clinic for a long time. She’s also a big believer in making sure the oils she uses are high in quality. So in 2013, she decided to create her own aromatherapy line designed specifically for animals. Less than a year later, she launched animalEO. “Larger companies, and companies creating essential oil products for humans, just did not fill the proper requirements for Veterinary Aromatic Medicine, or for consumers sharing their homes with animals,” says Dr. Shelton. Along with formulating her own premium products, Dr. Shelton also wanted to teach other veterinarians and pet parents about the importance of high quality versus low quality essential oils. With poor quality products posing a health risk to animals, Dr. Shelton wanted consumers and health care professionals to begin reaching for pure, therapeutic grade oils. “By creating my own product line, I knew exactly what was in the hands of my clients and students, thereby eliminating any risk.” So what makes animalEO products different from other essential oils? Drawing on years of firsthand experience, as well
as numerous studies, Dr. Shelton and her team manufacture each blend specifically for its intended animal species. “We concentrate on what is best for each individual species,” says Dr. Shelton. “It was incredibly important that I had products that were specifically formulated for a bird versus a dog, for example. It is not a one-size-fits-all market.” While this approach makes her job a lot more complicated, it ensures that there’s a safe and effective essential oil blend for every companion animal species. Today, the animalEO line contains over 54 blends, featuring species-appropriate names such as “Feathered Blend”, “AquaAdd”, “KittyBoost” and “Dog Breath”. Each product has been safely tested on and around pets, and has demonstrated benefits in both a clinical and everyday setting. With her high quality essential oils on the shelves of clinics – and in the hands of consumers – Dr. Shelton feels more confident promoting aromatic medicine to heal animals and enhance their well-being. This was her motivation from the start, and it remains her enduring goal. “My mission this year is to continue educating veterinarians and veterinary students,” she says, adding that she will be visiting multiple US veterinary colleges throughout 2018 to share her knowledge on essential oil evaluation, proper dosing and usage. “We have such a wonderful natural tool at our disposal, but it’s only wonderful if it’s used in a way that will keep animals safe.” And animalEO certainly fits that bill. June/July 2018
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Brynn This German shepherd is more than just a pretty face. She’s using her influence to spread the word about canine health, nutrition and EPI, a rare but serious canine disease.
Life is full of surprises. When Maureen Fowler visited Woofstock in Toronto with her dog, Brynn, last summer, she thought she’d just be meeting a few friends. She didn’t plan on lining up at our Animal Wellness booth, and she certainly didn’t expect to see her pup’s face on the cover of this issue as a result! Though it was unplanned, it isn’t the first time in Maureen’s life that something like this has happened. Surprise – albeit an unpleasant one – also played a role in her decision to adopt Brynn in the first place. After trying for a child for a couple of years, Maureen received the shattering news that she couldn’t have a baby of her own. Devastated, but determined to move forward, she decided to
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Photos courtesy of Maureen Fowler
By Emily Watson
adopt a dog. A quick internet search led her to a nearby breeder. Their website, she explains, looked very inviting. “I liked how personal they were,” she says. “I felt they really cared about their dogs.” Encouraged by appearances, Maureen paid a visit to the breeder. To her delight, a litter of 11 German shepherd puppies were waiting to find their forever homes. She picked out a beautiful female with a larger-than-life personality and even bigger ears. Maureen called her new friend Brynn – the name she’d planned to give her first daughter. As is the case with all new relationships, the first few months with Brynn were perfect. Having a puppy in the house was
like a breath of fresh air; the little shepherd kept Maureen on her toes and gave her the unconditional companionship she’d been seeking. But a curveball was just around the corner. At five months old, Brynn started experiencing health problems. Since chronic diarrhea was the primary symptom, the vet tested her for giardia. The results came back positive, but meds didn’t seem to alleviate it. That’s when another possible diagnosis came to light. “My vet told me about a condition German shepherds are prone to called EPI,” says Maureen. Sure enough, Brynn tested positive for the disease. EPI, or Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency, is a condition in which the pancreas fails to produce enough digestive enzymes. These enzymes work to break down starches, fats and proteins, and without them, a dog’s gastrointestinal system is greatly compromised. “I wish I had done some research so I would have known about this genetic condition in German shepherds,” says Maureen, in hindsight. “That way, I could have picked a more responsible breeder who does health testing on their pups.” But Maureen knew there was no point dwelling on the “could haves”. Instead, she joined a group called EPI4dogs to get the answers and support she needed to help her sick companion. “It was a long road to figuring out what would work for Brynn, since all EPI dogs are different,” says Maureen. “I eliminated all grains and gave her the proper enzyme supplements, but still couldn’t get her stable.” When Brynn was about nine months old and Maureen was still struggling to restore her health, she ran into the owner of Brynn’s sire. His advice? To euthanize her and get a healthy puppy. Maureen knew then that she’d adopted Brynn for a reason – so she could responsibly manage her condition and give her a shot at a healthy life. Continued on page 44.
Brynn poses proudly with the Brynn Shampoo Bar – a limited edition product that raised money and awareness for EPI.
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43
Come celebrate
WOOFSTOCK’S
15 anniversary!
This high-energy event is the largest outdoor festival for dogs in North America. “Last year, we raised over $25,000 for our rescue groups,” says Teanna Lindsay, Woofstock’s co-owner. “Let’s top that this year! Join us as we encourage all our Woofstockers to embrace the theme – peace, love and woof – and dress up in their nostalgic 60s and 70s gear!” When: May 26 and 27 Where: Woodbine Park, Toronto Visit woofstock.ca for more info.
Photos courtesy of Maureen Fowler
TH
Continued from page 43. “I finally had a holistic allergy test done and that was the turning point,” says Maureen. “I found out she was allergic to the pork enzymes most commonly used to treat EPI.” In order to give Brynn the nutrition she needed without worsening her condition, Maureen switched Brynn to a raw diet from Big Country Raw, topped with various nutritional supplements. Almost immediately, her pup began to thrive. Driven by hope and a desire to help other dogs with the same condition, Maureen decided to start an Instagram account to locate some of Brynn’s siblings. Since EPI is genetic, she thought it was possible that others from the some litter had been diagnosed as well. Maureen wasn’t successful in tracking them down, but an unexpected benefit arose from the account – it gave her and Brynn an activity they could enjoy together. They began heading out on adventures, camera in tow, and Maureen started snapping photos of Brynn in various settings and poses, and posting them to Instagram. Brynn took to the camera instantly, and knew almost instinctively where to stand for the “perfect shot”. Soon, Brynn’s account took off, garnering the attention of nearly 30,000 fans. As the followers piled in, other opportunities began to fall at Maureen’s feet. “Earlier in 2017, an all-natural pet health company on Instagram approached me to collaborate with them on a limited edition product they wanted to create, to help raise awareness of EPI,” she says. “They created a special formula based on Brynn’s allergies and intolerances called the Brynn Shampoo Bar. They released it for a limited time and donated a portion of the profits to The EPI Foundation.” Thanks to a raw diet, natural healthcare products and a loving and dedicated “mom”, Brynn is able to take her active life in stride. And she’s loving every minute of it. “EPI never goes away,” says Maureen. “But you would never know she has it because diet and supplements control the symptoms.” Indeed, four years after her diagnosis, Brynn enjoys a full life, free from discomfort – and it’s evident in every one of her photos. Whether she’s promoting a product, swimming, hiking or running errands with her human, the four-year-old German shepherd is a picture of health and happiness. Meanwhile, as their Instagram account continues to grow – and Brynn continues to thrive – Maureen seizes every opportunity to raise awareness for EPI. In fact, it was the reason they stepped into the line at the Animal Wellness booth during last year’s Woofstock. Life may be full of surprises, but it’s also full of serendipity. “Everything happens for a reason,” says Maureen. “And I love it that Brynn is my reason!”
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Find Brynn online at
instagram.com/brynn.infocus/
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CCD and
vitamin D By Deva Khalsa, VMD
Sometimes referred to as “doggy dementia”, canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) affects many senior dogs. A deficiency in vitamin D3 could be the cause.
Is your older dog behaving oddly? Does he seem confused or lost in familiar surroundings? Has he become withdrawn or uninterested in walks or play? While there are other reasons for these behaviors, they can also point to canine cognitive disorder (CCD), a mental condition that affects many dogs as they age. Let’s look at the symptoms and possible causes, and how vitamin D3 and other natural therapies can help alleviate the condition. CCD involves a deterioration in how your dog thinks, learns and remembers. It includes various stages of confusion and disorientation, and causes behavioral changes that can disrupt the lives of everyone in the household. Studies have shown that some older dogs with CCD have brain lesions very similar to those seen in human Alzheimer's patients.
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SIGNS OF CCD Your dog may have canine cognitive disorder if he displays a number of the following behaviors: • Does not respond to his name or familiar commands • Is withdrawn and unwilling to play, go for walks or even go outside • Becomes lost in familiar places in the home or backyard • Becomes trapped behind familiar furniture or in room corners • Has trouble finding and using doors and negotiating stairways • Does not recognize or is startled by family members, toys, etc. • Frequently soils in the house, regardless of the frequency he is taken outside • Sleeps more during the day, and less during the night • Stares at walls or into space, and is startled by interior lighting, the television, etc.
• Frequently trembles or shakes, either while standing or lying down • Paces or wanders aimlessly through the house • Has difficulty learning new tasks, commands or routes • Seeks less and less attention and praise • Is hesitant to take treats, drink fresh water, or eat fresh food
COULD CCD BE CAUSED BY A VITAMIN D3 DEFICIENCY? Studies in humans have found a significant link between dementia and vitamin D, and have confirmed that older adults who don't get enough vitamin D double their risk of acquiring dementia disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. The research has shown that people with low levels of vitamin D3 are 70% more likely to develop Alzheimer's, and have a 53% increased risk for dementia. A study done in British Columbia, Canada, demonstrated that vitamin D is a champion for cognitive health. Non-verbal (visual) memory benefited from higher doses of vitamin D supplementation, particularly among those who were insufficient at baseline. The study showed that higher vitamin D3 levels were particularly important for higher-level cognitive functioning, specifically non-verbal (visual) memory. Studies by VDI Laboratory show that 75% of dogs eating commercial dog food actually have a deficiency in vitamin D, which can lead to cognitive dysfunction, among other problems. Additionally, dogs with
Additional therapies for CCD Master hormone: melatonin
Melatonin is helpful for older dogs suffering from sleepless nights and/or who are barking at odd hours. In essence, melatonin is the reset button for circadian rhythms; it affects the internal clock system that influences everything from cellular health and hormone signaling to mental acuity. Melatonin is also a potent antioxidant, immune modulator and master rejuvenation hormone, and has been proven to actively promote cellular health. Depending on the size of your dog, 1mg to 5mg before bed is totally safe.
Homeopathy can help
Baryta carbonica is a homeopathic remedy indicated in cases of mental weakness, loss of memory, senile dementia and confusion. The 6x potency can be given orally without food up to three times a day for a month; improvement should be watched for and noted. I have found this remedy to be helpful in some cases, but I also like to check D3 levels and include other modalities in the treatment of CCD.
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IBD or kidney failure are almost certainly D3 deficient. That’s because D3 is absorbed in the gut, and intestinal problems prevent adequate absorption. And D3 is converted in both the liver and kidneys. Other factors that play a role in vitamin D uptake in dogs include breed, age and spaying/neutering. Certain breeds, such as the golden retriever, are more prone to vitamin D deficiency. In dogs over the age of five, vitamin D3 absorption starts to drop by about 3% to 5% a year. Female spayed dogs are 10% lower in D3 than intact females, while male neutered dogs are 30% lower than intact males. It has also been found that the risk of getting cancer quadruples in dogs with low stores of vitamin D. Yet there’s a genuine epidemic of vitamin D deficiency in our pets. Getting more sunshine is not a solution. Dogs can’t use sunshine to create vitamin D because they do not have the same enzymes in their skin that people do. This means their vitamin D has to come from diet. VDI Laboratory started testing vitamin D3 levels in animals several years ago; if you wish, it’s easy to get your own dog’s D3 level tested (visit vdilab.com). Correcting any deficiency would help to prevent a myriad of diseases, including CCD.
DOSING WITH D3 Don’t wait until your dog gets CCD before you start supplementing him with vitamin D3. It’s far better to begin
STEM CELL THERAPY
FOR CCD – a case report
Toby was an extremely intelligent therapy dog. At the age of 13, however, he began waking his people up five times a night to go out and roam, dig or sit down. He would stand around looking lost and did not even notice his people were near. He scratched furiously at the carpet, as though it were dirt, had a dazed look and was confused and unaware of his environment. This very smart and very well-trained dog could not do any of his old tricks. He also had fits of extreme anxiety. After ten days on a specific stem cell targeting product that I use in my consulting practice, Toby’s owners noticed a dramatic change. His eyes became bright and he reverted to his playful puppy-like self. He started performing all his old tricks again. I expected this therapy to produce a relatively permanent change, and am satisfied that it did. We also tested Toby’s D3 levels, and he is on a lifelong supplement.
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giving him D3 on a daily basis from a young age. Certain supplements have very adequate doses of vitamin D3 at 400 IU a day, but talk to an holistic or integrative veterinarian before choosing a product for your own dog. I have treated many older dogs with CCD using vitamin D3 supplementation, with excellent results. It takes some time (about six weeks) for oral supplementation to reach acceptable levels, so for large dogs I usually start with 5,000 IU a day for two months and then lower this dose by half. A dog over 20 pounds would get 2,000 IU to 3,000 IU a day for a month to six weeks, and would then be given to a maintenance dose. Compounding pharmacies commonly make a safe injectable form of vitamin D3 which works to raise levels immediately. One injection of 50,000 IU for a large dog, or 25,000 IU for a medium dog, would be fine to start with, and you could follow this up with oral D3 on a daily basis. These levels may seem high, but for a dog who has tested low for D3, they’re not very high at all. Often, I have to increase the levels of D3 in order to get my patients into the normal realm.
STARTING THE PROCESS Whatever your dog’s age, ask your veterinarian to contact VDI Laboratories and order the vitamin D testing kit. A tiny amount of blood is placed on special absorbent paper and sent in for analysis. If your dog is deficient (which is very likely), ask about a compounding pharmacy injection of D3 to get his levels up quickly and immediately. Follow this up with an oral dose. Melatonin can be added in if you do not see results one week after the shot. Remember that oral supplementation with vitamin D3 takes six weeks to start working; and even then, your dog’s D3 level may still be non-optimal and you may have to increase the dose again. It’s a good idea to have his D3 levels re-checked to make sure he is getting an adequate dose. Baryta carbonica can also be used if needed (see sidebar on previous page). Canine cognitive dysfunction occurs commonly in aging dogs, and vitamin D3 deficiency has to be a serious contender for the reason why. Whether your dog is still young and healthy, or is a senior who has already been diagnosed with CCD, looking into D3 supplementation is an excellent idea.
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By Andrea Gronwald
SUCCESSFUL DOG TRAINING
with treats
Treats are important
rewards when
you’re training a dog, but you don’t want him to become
dependent on them. Learn to make training treats work for both of you – and how to wean your dog off them when he’s ready.
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Like us, dogs repeat behaviors that are rewarded. When dogs associate a particular behavior with a positive consequence, they perform that behavior more often. Because most dogs are highly food-motivated, treats are a powerful reward and effective tool. But you don’t want to have to carry treats around with you for the rest of your life! Following are some tips to maximize your success when using treats to train your dog – and how to wean him off the goodies once he’s mastered what you’re teaching him.
MAKING TREATS WORK FOR YOU 1. Link a word to the treat When your dog performs a behavior you want during a training session, immediately praise him by saying “good” or “yes” and deliver a high quality treat. Use the same word every time. Your praise will become the marker that lets your dog know he did the correct behavior at the instant he did it, and that a treat is coming. Eventually, you will wean your dog off treats – praise, play and affection will be the rewards, and treats will no longer be necessary.
2. Deliver treats quickly In order for your dog to make an association between his behavior and a reward, deliver the treat as quickly as possible at the instant he performs. When you use a verbal marker, such as saying “good” or “yes”, you have a little extra time because your praise “bridges” the time between your dog’s behavior and the delivery of the treat. But you still need to give the treat within one or two seconds. Otherwise, you may be rewarding a different behavior. For example, when you ask your dog to sit, you have to give him the treat (or mark the behavior) the moment his bottom touches the ground. If you take time searching for a treat in your pocket, your dog may have already got up by the time he gets his reward. In that case, you would be rewarding him for getting up, not sitting. A pouch you can wear around your waist gives you quick access to treats.
3. Reward, don’t bribe Treats are rewards for desired behaviors. If your dog does a behavior only when you show him a treat, you’re bribing him. Leave the treat in your pouch or hide it behind your back. As soon as your dog does the behavior, give him the treat. Be patient and resist the temptation to show him the treat in order to get him to do what you want. If he does not perform the behavior, he may either not know it yet, or there may be too many distractions around. Go back to the point where your dog was successful and progress from there. Certain behaviors may be trained using a treat as a lure. For example, one way to teach your dog to sit is by luring him into June/July 2018
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WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG WON’T
TAKE TREATS
Some dogs are more motivated by play or affection than food. Use the rewards that motivate your dog the most. However, if your dog is usually food-motivated but won’t take treats during training, consider the following: • The treats may not be yummy enough. Try higher-value treats, such as real meats. Many dogs will turn up their nose at kibble but do almost anything for a piece of chicken. • Your dog might be stressed. Look at the environment and make sure there are no scary distractions around (barking dogs, running kids, too many people, loud noises, etc.). Increase the distance from what’s making your dog nervous or move the training session to a quieter place. • Try smaller pieces. If your dog is stressed or distracted, he won’t want to spend a lot of time chewing. • Toss treats from a distance. When working with a fearful dog, toss the treat on the floor instead of feeding from your hand. • Try training at a different time. If your dog just ate his dinner, he may not be motivated by food for a while. If he has too much pent-up energy, he may prefer a romp over a calm training session.
the position. With a treat in your hand, slowly move your hand over his nose. As he looks up, his body leans back until he sits. Quickly move away from luring with a treat in your hand to luring with your hand only, in order to prevent your dog from becoming dependent on food rewards. The next step is to attach a word to the desired behavior (“sit”) and move away from luring altogether.
4. Reward one behavior with several treats When you teach your dog to hold a position for a period of time – for example “sit” or “down” – give him treats while he is still there to reward him for staying in that position. If you give only one treat each time, he may learn to get up soon after because he knows he’ll never get more than one food reward. As your dog progresses, lengthen the time intervals at which you deliver treats until you no longer need them. Another example in which you would reward your dog with multiple treats is when he does a behavior exceptionally well. Show him how pleased you are by giving him several treats in a row. He just hit the jackpot!
WHAT KIND OF TREATS WORK BEST? Use high-value treats that your dog really likes, especially when teaching him a new or difficult behavior or training him in a new environment with distractions. High-value treats are real meats, such as hamburger, steak, chicken or turkey. Cheese is also a favorite. The treats should be small, soft pieces that your dog can swallow quickly. Mixing up a variety of different treats keeps things interesting. Just make sure they agree with your dog’s digestive system. If you are buying training treats, avoid those that contain sugar, preservatives, fillers, artificial colors or by-products. Continued on page 54.
The author enhances her dog's agility performance by providing high-value treats immediately after a successful action.
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Continued from page 52.
WON’T TREATS LEAD TO
WEIGHT GAIN?
Training treats should be very small so your dog can eat them quickly. But when you feed him a lot of treats during training sessions, you may want to adjust the quantity of his regular meals to avoid weight gain or an upset stomach. Alternatively, you can use a portion of your dog’s meal for training, as long as it’s motivating enough for him. Given the number of treats needed during initial training, healthy choices are always recommended.
WEANING YOUR DOG OFF TRAINING TREATS Some people think they’ll have to carry treats around for the rest of their dog’s life. While you want to use a fair number of treats whenever you teach your dog a new or difficult behavior, or introduce him to new distractions, you can start fading out the treats once he has learned the correct behavior, using the following methods:
Reward intermittently Offer treats randomly instead of every single time. For example, you may ask your dog to sit two times, then give him a treat; ask him to sit four times before giving him a treat; then ask him to sit once and give him a treat. Make it unpredictable. This technique is comparable to a slot machine. Your dog never knows when a treat is coming, but knowing he will eventually get one keeps him motivated.
Use “life rewards” Also reward your dog with other things he likes. Instead of giving him a treat, give him a belly rub, play fetch, invite him up on the couch, or go for a walk. Anything your dog enjoys can be used as a reward.
Reward several behaviors with one treat Ask your dog to do a series of behaviors before you give him a treat. For example, ask him to sit, lie down, stay and then come. Praise him for each behavior but only give him a treat at the end. Make sure you switch up the order of the behaviors you ask for, or your dog will quickly figure it out.
Delay the reward Ask your dog for a behavior, but instead of quickly giving him a treat – as you did when he was still learning – go get a treat from a different room so there is some delay. Even when you have weaned your dog away from training treats, it’s a good idea to still reward him with food every now and then. We always want to appreciate good behaviors and never take them for granted. It’s also a good idea to carry a couple of treats with you on walks. A motorcycle might backfire or a skateboarder race by. You can quickly turn a scary situation into something less frightening by giving your dog a treat.
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Animal Wellness
June/July 2018
55
product picks Find your lost pet
faster
Nothing is scarier than having your dog or cat go missing. Thankfully, today’s technology is making it a lot easier to find lost or stolen pets. This advanced ID tag helps missing animals get found, cared for and returned to their families as quickly as possible. Once activated, the system features easy-to-use alerts, 24/7 access to vital information for anyone who finds your pet, and even a way to instantly create and print “lost” posters. $24.99 (choose from 70 designs) BlanketID.com
Improve
immunity
A strong immune system is a key weapon in the fight against cancer and other diseases. I’M-YUNITY® for Dogs is a proprietary medicinal mushroom extract that helps boost immunity, reduce pain and fatigue, and improve energy levels, mobility and appetite. Read the promising results from clinical trials and real life situations on the company website, and use the “wellness” code for a 5% discount. 60 caps: $95 ImYunityForDogs.com
Gentle
odor removal
We all love our pets, but occasionally they can get a bit stinky. Gently eliminate the smell of urine, feces or skunk from your animal, while maintaining a healthy coat, with Amazing NokOut Pet Shampoo. Using an oxidation process to break down odor molecules at the source, NokOut products are safe and effective, as well as non-toxic, scent-free, and 100% biodegradable.
236 ml: $11.95 Nokout.ca
Natural
skin maintenance
Dry itchy skin can make your dog very uncomfortable. Animal Scents® Ointment from Young Living Vets and Pets is a protective soothing salve designed specifically for external use on animals. This natural product is enhanced with rose and myrrh – two of nature's most powerful essential oils – along with six other oils, all in a moisturizing base of beeswax and lanolin to promote normal healthy skin. 6.3 oz: $28.65 YLVetsAndPets.com
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Animal Wellness
Therapeutic
bed liner
Does your dog have stiff or aching joints? Back on Track's Therapeutic Dog Bed Liner can help. Placed in your dog’s bed or favorite sleeping place, it provides him with all of the benefits of Back on Track products. Using your dog's own body energy, the product’s state-of-the-art Welltex material provides a soothing far infrared thermal effect and can help relax muscles and ease soreness, allowing your dog to get up easily from his nap. $45 to $75 backontrackproducts.com
Hemp wellness
chews
Hemp has been shown to offer a variety of healthboosting effects. Treatibles, the original phytocannabinoid products for pets, are derived from medicinal grade, USgrown hemp. They offer grain-free, Compassion Certified chews in four flavors – Pumpkin, Blueberry, Turkey and Tater’s Sweet Potato Tots. Also try their dropper bottle oils and gel caps. All products are third party tested for efficacy and purity. Starting at $24 Treatibles.com
Unique collar for water
safety
Boating or swimming with your dog? The Hedz UP Pets Watercollar is an alternative to canine lifejackets. This buoyant lightweight neck collar has strong loops that attach it to the dog’s existing collar, allowing it to hang away from his neck, giving him comfort, freedom of movement and clear vision around water risks. When he swims or falls into water, flotation stays under the chin, keeping his ears and nose above the surface. $43 to $55 SaveDogsFromDrowning.com
Healthy
endocannabinoid system
An important contributor to overall wellness in pets is a healthy endocannabinoid system. Hemp supplements from Canna Companion help maintain a healthy digestive tract while aiding a normally-functioning immune system and encouraging natural immune responses to external stimuli. The company is committed to continued research and development to ensure their hemp supplements are safe, effective and meet the needs of your pets. $37.75 to $188.95 CannaCompanionusa.com June/July 2018
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BRACHYCEPHALIC
DOGS
By W. Jean Dodds, DVM
From Boston terriers to pugs, flat-faced dogs with short noses are prone to health problems, especially respiratory issues. It’s important to educate yourself about these conditions when adopting a brachycephalic breed or mix.
Many of our today’s most popular dogs include brachycephalic breeds such as pugs, Boston terriers and bulldogs. A brachycephalic dog is one with a “shortened head” featuring a short nose and a flat face. In fact, the word “brachycephaly” stems from the Greek root meaning "short" and "head", and refers to a skull shape that’s shorter than is typical for its species. While brachycephalic breeds appeal to many people, these dogs and their mixes can experience health problems associated with their anatomy and physiology. If you’re adopting a brachycephalic dog, it’s important to know which breeds are prone to these problems and why, and what you can do to minimize issues in your new friend.
WHY ARE THESE BREEDS SO POPULAR? Among the many reasons we find human babies so adorable are their large eyes and brachycephalic noses and faces. So it follows that people would also be attracted to the appearance of brachycephalic dogs. Recent research has shown that people prefer these dogs for their appearance, which is often prioritized over their health. In fact, the bulldog and French bulldog rank fourth and fifth in popularity in the US.
HEALTH CONCERNS IN BRACHYCEPHALIC DOGS Veterinary professionals around the world have expressed concerns about the increasing health problems encountered in these breeds. A report from the UK in 2015 reported that upper respiratory disorders were commonly diagnosed in bulldogs, French bulldogs, pugs, border terriers, West Highland
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white terriers and Yorkshire terriers attending primary care veterinary practices in England. The report stated that the three extreme brachycephalic breed types (bulldog, French bulldog and pug) were relatively short-lived and more predisposed to these disorders than the three other breeds (the moderatebrachycephalic Yorkshire terrier and the non-brachycephalic border terrier and West Highland white terrier). Meanwhile, research undertaken by Cambridge University’s veterinary medicine group compared the prevalence of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome in dogs. They found no prevalence of the disease in a control group of nonbrachycephalic dogs, but found it in 40% of bulldogs, 46% of French bulldogs, and 60% of pugs.
ADDITIONAL HEALTH PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH
BRACHYCEPHALIC DOGS • Eye diseases, including entropion, ectropion and distichiasis (eyelashes rubbing on cornea), protruding eyeballs and poor tear production • Inability to mate or give birth naturally (requiring Cesarean section) • Repeated skin infections • Dental problems from crowding and misalignment • Gastrointestinal problems
These respiratory problems arise from anatomical defects of the shortened upper airway, as well as an elongated soft palate. Brachycephalic dogs are also prone to additional health issues (see sidebar on previous page).
ď ą Symptoms
of upper respiratory difficulties include breathing difficulties often associated with overheating, as well as sleep apnea, snoring, snorting and regurgitation. These symptoms progress with age and typically become severe by about 12 months. Some people may consider respiratory issues such as snoring or snorting to be normal for their dogs, and may not seek veterinary intervention until a more severe problem occurs.
Brachycephalic breeds Affenpinscher
King Charles spaniel
Boston terrier
Lhasa apso
Boxer
Neapolitan mastiff
Brussels griffon
Pekingese
Bulldog
Pug
Bullmastiff
Rottweiler
Cane corso
Shih tzu
Cavalier King Charles spaniel
Tibetan mastiff
Chinese shar-pei
Yorkshire terrier
Tibetan spaniel
Chihuahua (apple-headed)
ď ˇ Treatment includes surgical widening of the nostrils, and the removal of excess tissue from elongated soft palates, and any everted laryngeal saccules. Early treatment intervention usually prevents secondary conditions.
Chow chows Dogo Argentina Dogue de Bordeaux English mastiff
Potential complications during and after surgery, such as hemorrhaging, pain and inflammation, may make some veterinarians hesitant to perform soft palate correction surgery. With the advent of surgical lasers, however, these complications are greatly reduced.
English toy spaniel French bulldog Japanese chin
Continued on page 60.
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SMALL AND TOY BRACHYCEPHALIC DOGS Small short-faced breeds may be among the oldest forms of dog. Ancient remains of these dogs have been carbondated as far back as 10,000 years. Recent DNA analysis has confirmed that East Asia is the ancestral home of domestic dogs, and other studies have suggested that the Pekingese and pug are among the oldest breeds. Many toy brachycephalic dogs were bred to be companions and lap dogs in Tibetan monasteries and Chinese palaces. The resulting breed types became intermingled thanks to trading between nations. The ancestors of the pug, Pekingese, and Japanese chin were all one breed, while the ancestors of the Shih tzu and Lhasa apso were very similar. • Brussels griffon – developed in the 19th century by the Belgians from the Chinese pug and the King Charles (toy) spaniel. Often kept in stables to eliminate rodents. • Cavalier King Charles spaniel – evolved when breeders of King Charles spaniels (English toy spaniel) took their long-nosed throwbacks and created a slightly larger cousin. Cavaliers have a longer nose and a flat head.
• French bulldog – descended directly from the Molossian dogs of an ancient Greek tribe, and spread via Phoenician traders. In the 1800s, a cross between bulldog ancestors imported from England, and local rat terriers in Paris, led to today’s French bulldog. • Japanese chin – an ancient breed originating from the “Gobi Desert Kitchen Midden Dog” in China, then brought to Japan. •L hasa apso – this ancient breed hails from Tibet, where it was called the "barking lion sentinel dog”, alerting the monks to intruders. They were never sold, only given as gifts. • Pekingese – native to China, this is one of the most ancient dog breeds, and was treasured by Chinese Emperors. These dogs share a common ancestry with the Brussels griffon, pug and Shih tzu. Early Pekingese in China more closely resembled the Japanese chin.
• Chihuahua – has pre-Columbian Mexican ancestry. They apparently descended from the Techichi of Mexico, as far back as 300 BC.
• Pug – shares common ancestry with the Brussels griffon, Pekingese and Shih tzu. Pugs originated in the Shang Dynasty of China in the 16th century; they did not have flat faces at that time. Over the next three centuries, the face gradually became shortened.
• English toy spaniel (King Charles spaniel) – developed by the Dutch from the pug dogs of China. This dog had a pointed muzzle, but crosses to the Japanese chin and pug in the 18th and 19th centuries resulted in dogs with the short muzzles and round apple heads seen today.
• Shih tzu – shares common ancestry with the Brussels griffon, Pekingese and pug. Originally a cross between the Pekingese and Lhasa apso. The Tibetan Dalai Lama gifted them to Chinese emperors near the end of the 17th century.
Continued from page 59.
e Prevention
involves limiting symptom aggravation and includes avoiding stress and heat, and maintaining an ideal body weight by not overfeeding. Harnesses should be used instead of collars to avoid pressure on the trachea. As brachycephalic dogs are more likely to die during air travel, they have been banned from flights on many airlines.
If you opt to buy from a breeder, try to find one who selects for more moderate features rather than extremely short or flat faces. Dogs with serious breathing difficulties should not be used as breeding stock, even though many breeders continue to do so; many of these dogs end up at shelters and rescue facilities, so educate yourself about their health problems if you’re adopting. Given the high prevalence of respiratory problems in the most popular brachycephalic dogs, however, removing affected animals
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Animal Wellness
from the breeding pool may cause some breeds to become unsustainable. This means out-crossing to non-brachycephalic breeds might become necessary, and would actually be a step in the right direction for the future welfare of these dogs. If you have a soft spot for pugs, Boston terriers, Shih tzus, or any other brachycephalic breed, don’t despair. Hopefully, as time goes on, recognition of their predisposition to respiratory and other health problems will become more widespread, and breeders will respond by gradually selecting out the features that cause these issues. In the meantime, if you are adopting a brachycephalic dog, whether he’s a purebred or mixed breed, be aware of his potential health problems and do what you can to prevent issues and give your companion a happy and comfortable life.
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passages Every once in a while, you meet someone really special. Someone who makes a big difference in your life, who is an inspiration and models exemplary qualities. For me, that was Molly, a yellow Lab who came to me as a pup. I am convinced Molly was a human in a dog’s body, for she understood English as plainly as any kid, and could speak it too. Well, not exactly, but given her high level communication skills, she was able to let you know exactly what was on her mind. And she had plenty of opinions! As Molly grew, she made it her business to watch over our home and family. She was part of a group of Labs and retrievers I had at the time – a fairly rambunctious, rag-tag, street smart bunch of dogs that came from different backgrounds. Molly was crystal clear about who ran the show, and simply stepped into the role of mother. They all listened to her – if Molly said so, it was so. It was amazing to watch her as she soothed the other dogs just with her presence. They were mostly boy dogs who got into everything they could find, and they kept Molly quite busy! So, it wasn’t surprising when I heard barking downstairs one day. In my world, barking is as natural and common as birdsong, so I tend to listen with one ear. This bark, however, was different. It was Molly’s emergency bark. I dropped what I was doing and raced downstairs. Molly was standing there with a rather disgusted look on her face and an expression that said, “What took you so long?” “Molly!” I exclaimed. “What’s wrong? Are you okay?”
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Mother a Molly By Tamara Hendrix
Without a word, she turned and led me into another room where I found Tommy, my older golden retriever, with his head down toward the wall and his collar caught on the faucet attached to the water heater. He was panting and frightened. I reached to loosen his collar. When I did, his head bobbed up, and he looked at me with grateful eyes. No telling how long he would have been there if Molly hadn’t sounded the alarm! I turned to thank Molly, but she was busy checking Tommy to make sure he was okay. Once reassured, she turned on her heels, dismissing me, and headed for the water bowl. You get thirsty when you have to bark a lot! That’s the way it was with Molly. She knew everything that was going on – and I mean everything. She was a master teacher and I was the student. One of the many lessons I learned from her was to pay attention to details, and to be present. “Notice what you notice,” she always seemed to say. Her teaching method was very Zen-like – straight and to the point, with very little fluff. Molly was a very direct communicator, even when it came to the seat she preferred on the sofa. If you were sitting in “her spot”, she would stand right in front of you and stare until you moved. Once you did, she would hop up and settle right in. She could assess any situation and know what to do about it. If I had to zero in on one of Molly’s most beautiful qualities, it would be her loving heart. She practiced loving kindness and unconditional love every day of her life. If anyone was sick,
Molly would faithfully stay by their side. We had the feeling she was always looking after us. She had a mother’s radar and missed nothing. Over the years, as the other dogs started to cross over, Molly’s presence became even more angelic, and more directed toward helping souls make their transitions. She remained a constant companion to each and every dog by walking them over the hill outside, making sure they came back in, and generally overseeing their well-being. One by one, Tommy, Max, Mikey, Alex and Sally made their transitions. Molly stayed true to her purpose and waited for them all to ease out. It was only then that she felt her own job was done.
5. Practice loving kindness, no matter what. 6. Involve yourself in life – don’t just sit on the sidelines. 7. Treat everyone like family. 8. Don’t waste your gifts by not using them. 9. Use your gifts for good every day. 10. Do as much good as you can while you’re here. Molly always knew who she truly was, and set out from the beginning to be the best she could. She graced my life and everyone else privileged to cross her path. She knew she was here to make a difference and used all her gifts to help others, not just once or twice, but every day of her life. I know this much – I am a better person for having known Molly.
Some of the best moments I spent with Molly came towards the end of her life. Her back legs grew weak, which made her stride wobbly and slow. That didn’t stop her from meandering outside, however, and we spent many hours just hanging out, “talking” and sharing memories. It was during these times that Molly reminded me of the most important things in life:
1. Be present. 2. Pay attention to details. 3. Know who you really are, and be authentic. 4. Be aware of the whole – not just yourself.
Molly (far rig ht) was a m otherly lea in the autho der of the p r's househo ack ld.
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By Audi Donamor
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Animal Wellness
– it’s good for dogs and cats too!
Y O G U R T
The health benefits of yogurt aren’t just for people, so why not share this treat with your pet as well? Most dogs and cats love it, and it makes an excellent addition to their diet.
Yogurt has become a very popular food in recent years, and can be found everywhere, from grocery stores to restaurants. While most mainstream yogurt products are sweetened and flavored, you can still buy plain yogurt, which is the healthiest choice for you – and your dog or cat. Take a look at the health benefits of natural yogurt, and try the recipes on your animal companion.
A SHORT HISTORY OF YOGURT People have been eating yogurt for thousands of years. Around 6000BC, the Neolithic peoples of Central Asia began milking their animals. Back then, storage containers were made from the stomachs of animals, and the milk naturally curdled and fermented, helped along by the natural enzymes found in the stomachs. Ancient Ayurvedic writings referred to the health benefits of fermented milk, while Genghis Khan, founder of the Mongol empire, is said to have fed his entire army yogurt, because he believed it instilled bravery in his warriors. In the early 20th century, Stamen Grigorov, a Bulgarian medical student, was the first to explain the benefits of eating a diet that included yogurt by discovering Bacillus bulgaricus, a lactic acid still used in today’s yogurt cultures. The first yogurt laboratory and factory were opened in France in 1932 – you know it today as Danone Yogurt.
WHY IS YOGURT SO HEALTHY? Adding yogurt to your pet’s diet provides him with a valuable source of protein and calcium, along with magnesium, potassium, vitamin D, K2 enzymes, essential fatty acids and whey. It also contains probiotics to help support the gastrointestinal system and boost immunity. If your pet has been prescribed antibiotics, the probiotics
D gs Cats
in a dollop of yogurt can help restore healthy intestinal flora, thanks to strains of good bacteria such as Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Steptococcus thermophiles, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei and Bifidus. It’s no wonder that yogurt is considered one of the world’s superfoods! Just be sure to carefully read labels when buying yogurt, to ensure it contains no artificial colors or flavors, and that
no sugar or sugar substitutes have been added, particularly xylitol, which is toxic to pets. Yogurt offers lots of goodness to your whole family, and can be a beneficial addition to your pet’s daily diet, or as a nutrient-dense treat. Now for the fun part – making your own animal-friendly yogurt recipes! Recipes on page 66.
Alternative milks for yogurt GOAT’S MILK
Goat’s milk contains more calcium, vitamin B6, vitamin A, potassium, niacin, copper, folic acid and selenium, than cow’s milk. And unlike cow’s milk, goat’s milk does not contain aggluntinin, so fat globules do not gather together; this makes digestion easier. Goat’s milk also offers more linoleic and arachnodonic essential fatty acids, and a higher proportion of short-chain and mediumchain fatty acids, than cow’s milk. Goat’s milk only contains trace amounts of alpha S-1, an allergenic casein protein, so it’s a great alternative for pets and people who have an intolerance to cow’s milk-based products.
SHEEP’S MILK
Sheep’s milk is naturally homogenized. It contains vitamins A, B, B1, B6, B12, C, D and E, along with calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc. It also offers ten essential amino acids. Sheep’s milk contains twice the fat of cow’s milk, including Omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids. It is also rich in medium-chain fatty
acids. Its fat globules are small, making them easier to digest, so it’s another fabulous choice for pets and people who have an intolerance to cow’s milk. Those with high lactose intolerance can still eat sheep’s milk products; when yogurt is made from sheep’s milk, the lactose is converted to lactic acid.
WATER BUFFALO’S MILK
Also naturally homogenized, water buffalo’s milk is another valuable source of nutrients, including vitamins A, B, B1, B6, B12, C and E, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc. Like sheep’s milk, it contains ten essential amino acids. It contains no A1 beta-casein, so is another great alternative for pets and people who have an intolerance to cow’s milk. As with sheep’s milk, the fat molecules are smaller, making them easier to digest. Water buffalo are grass-fed, and freely grazing in fields from April through to the fall. At my home on Vancouver Island, water buffalo are part of the “5 Mile Diet”. Their feed is either grown on the farm where they live, or comes from local farmers.
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RECIPES
Cool cat yogurt dips – that dogs can have too!
Ingredients
Herby herb dip ½ cup fresh herb blend (e.g. dill, mint, oregano, parsley) ½ teaspoon sea salt 1 cup plain homemade yogurt or Balkan style yogurt 2 tablespoons first pressed olive oil or hemp seed oil
OR
Chilly cucumber dip ½ cup plain homemade yogurt or Balkan style yogurt ¼ cup cucumber, peeled and finely grated 1 teaspoon dried dill ½ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender, or by hand. For an extra special treat, add ¼ cup chopped fish, like wild salmon or tuna, sardines or mackerel, before serving.
Old-fashioned yogurt
Did you know you can make your own yogurt? This old Eastern European recipe was taught to me many years ago.
Ingredients
1 liter whole milk (e.g. homogenized cow milk or whole naturally homogenized goat milk) 1 small container (175 grams) Balkan style yogurt (you can also use goat milk yogurt, water buffalo yogurt, or sheep yogurt)
Instructions
Choose organic ingredients whenever possible. Place milk in a large pot and bring to a boil. This is a “watch the pot carefully” recipe. Small bubbles will form around the edges first, then move towards the center. Watch the milk carefully to ensure it doesn’t burn. You can do this by simply turning the heat down just before the milk reaches a rolling boil. Boil the milk for 15 minutes. A timer is helpful for this step. After 15 minutes, turn the stove off, and let the milk cool down until it is lukewarm. In a mixing bowl, combine a small amount of yogurt with a small amount of milk until smooth – for example, combine 4 tablespoons of milk and 6 tablespoons of yogurt. The more yogurt used, the firmer the final result will be. A small whisk is perfect for this step. Put this mixture back in the pot with the rest of the milk. Cover the pot and leave it until yogurt has formed, checking it from time to time. As the yogurt is forming, it looks a bit like Jell-O. The yogurt can take anywhere from eight to 12 hours to form, though semi-firm yogurt will be ready in as little as four hours if you use whole goat milk. Semi-firm yogurt is perfect for dips, sauces and meal toppers. Whey will come to the top of your homemade yogurt, and it’s good to use too. Store homemade yogurt in containers and refrigerate or freeze. Homemade yogurt will last as long as commercial brands do. Fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices can be added to yogurt after the base has been prepared.
Yogurt herb puffs
Ingredients 3 cups whole grain flour (e.g. oat; pseudo-grain flours like hemp and quinoa can also be used)
2 teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon sea salt ½ teaspoon ground turmeric 1 tablespoon rubbed oregano; for your feline friends, substitute with dried catnip 1 cup yogurt; for cats, use ¼ cup chopped tuna, salmon or sardines, with ¾ cup yogurt ¼ cup first pressed olive oil Sprigs of oregano or catnip
Instructions Preheat oven to 375°F. Baste mini-muffin tins with first pressed olive oil from the ¼ cup you have set aside. Thoroughly combine all ingredients in mixer or blender, or in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
Scoop by tablespoon into mini-muffin tins. A metal or plastic tablespoon works like a charm. Top each puff with a sprig of oregano or catnip for an extra flourish, before popping in the oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Tops will be golden in color. Cool completely and store in an airtight container or Ziploc bag. This recipe makes 24 mini-puffs, and can easily be doubled. You can make biscuits with this recipe too. Simply slice the baked puffs and place on a parchment-covered cookie sheet. Bake in a preheated 275°F oven for 45 minutes, until crunchy. Add a “dip” (see above) for an extra special treat.
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Animal Wellness
the scoop HERBAL PET PRODUCTS
Doc Ackerman’s Pet Products has been providing natural, herbal, environmentally-safe products for 20 years. Their herbal remedies address allergies, arthritis, anxiety, seizures, joint pain and more, and they also feature natural top-of-the-line grooming products, including shampoos, conditioners and sprays. DocAckermans.com
HELPING SHELTERS AFTER NATURAL DISASTERS
Hurricanes, floods and wildfires can put already-struggling animal shelters in serious trouble. World's Best Cat Litter™ supports affected shelters with monetary donations for rebuilding and repairing – such as Texas Litter Control in Spring, TX; Clay County Animal Services in Green Cove Springs, FL; and the Humane Society of Sonoma County, CA. PRNewsWire.com/news-releases/worlds-best-cat-litter-supports-cats-affected-bydisasters-with-shelter-donations-300589657.html
BACK PAIN IS NOT A DEATH SENTENCE!
Breeds born with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) generally don’t have the problem identified until they experience their first signs of pain, at three to seven years old. So it’s important to learn what you can about this condition, even if your dog is young and symptom-free. Shortcut through IVDD provides you with a free mini-intro to the disease. DodgersList.com/IVDDshortcut
DAILY NUTRITION MEETS DENTAL CHEW
A healthy dental chew is a great way to support your dog’s oral health, but what if it could do even more for his health? Missing Link Once DailyTM Omega Dental Chews not only help clean your fur kiddo’s teeth; they also pack all the missing daily nutrition they need into a fun-to-feed, anytime, anywhere treat! MissingLinkProducts.com
DOG GEAR TO GO
Smoochy Poochy manufactures high quality, practical dog gear. Their multi-functional fully loaded dog leash features a “hands-free” option, a brass grommets system for length adjustment, a mesh drawstring bag holder (for your dog’s business) and a traffic handle at the end of the leash (keeps your dog close to you). SmoochyPoochy.com
NUTRACEUTICAL FOR CUSHING’S
Natural management of Cushing’s disease focuses on diet, treating anxiety, stress and inflammation, and the use of targeted supplements to reduce the production of corticosteroids. CushAway is a safe all-natural product with three active ingredients, scientifically shown to decrease corticosteroid production. Includes concentrated probiotics to increase efficacy. CushAway.com
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Traveling with your senior dog By Sara Jackson and Ann Brightman
Taking an older dog on summer vacation with you? Here are 9 ways to keep him safe and comfortable while on the road and at your destination.
With summer on the way, you’re probably thinking about vacation time. You may be planning to take your dog with you to the cottage, campground or a pet-friendly resort. But what if he’s getting older? No matter what your dog’s age is, his enthusiasm for being your travel buddy doesn’t falter, but you do have to take steps to make sure he stays safe and comfortable. This nine-point checklist will help ensure a relaxing vacation for both of you.
Before
traveling any distance with an older dog, have him checked out by your veterinarian, just to make sure everything’s okay and that he’s physically up to the trip.
Ensure your dog is going to be safe and comfortable on the journey. Keep him secure in the car, whether he rides in a crate or kennel, or has a doggy seatbelt. Being jolted around if you have to slam on the brakes is hard on any dog, especially an older one whose mobility and joint health may not be what it was. Provide a soft bed or blanket for him to lie on and help cushion his joints on bumpy roads. Other
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necessities include a old towel or baby wipes, and extra pee pads, in case your old pal has an accident.
Pack the food your dog is used to eating, to avoid tummy upsets, and don’t forget to bring along any medications or supplements he’s taking. A pill box marked with the days of the week, available at any pharmacy, is a simple way to organize and keep track of what he needs to take every day. It’s also wise to bring a supply of water from home.
To help prevent motion sickness, don’t feed your dog less than two or three hours before leaving, and make it a light meal. The homeopathic remedy Cocculus indicus can help prevent motion sickness, while Bach Rescue Remedy can reduce the anxiety that may lead to an upset stomach.
Ensure the temperature inside your vehicle is comfortable for your dog – not too hot, but also not too cold. Keep the AC on if the weather is sweltering, but don’t turn it up so high that it’s
blowing cold air on his body. And of course, never leave him alone in a parked car, not even for a few minutes.
y Make a pit stop at least every two hours to let your senior dog relieve himself, loosen up any stiff muscles and get some fresh air. Remember to clean up after him.
water and a healthy treat. Older dogs are more prone to heat stroke, so if the weather is hot and sticky, avoid exercise during the daytime hours. If you’re boating, or swimming in unfamiliar waters, a doggy lifejacket is a must. Whatever activity you’re sharing with your dog, make sure he has access to fresh drinking water, and a comfortable shady place to lie down in when he needs to rest.
u Make sure your dog stays hydrated and offer him water at rest stops. Adequate hydration is vital for dogs of all ages, and helps with kidney function, especially in older animals.
i At your destination, do what you can to make the cottage, cabin or room you’re staying in as homelike as possible for your senior. Remember that unless you’re at your own cottage, this will be a foreign environment to him. Some older dogs may find the change in surroundings confusing or disorienting, especially if they don’t see or hear as well as they used to. Spend time acclimating your senior by showing him where his bed, food and water bowls are.
Patience is key when traveling with a senior dog. We sometimes don’t want to admit it when our canine companions are getting older, so it’s important we remind ourselves to take things more carefully and slowly when traveling and vacationing with them. By taking the right precautions, and adjusting your pace a little, there’s no reason why your dog can’t continue being your travel buddy well into his golden years.
o Whether you’ll be boating, hiking or swimming, tailor your activities to your senior dog’s energy levels and capabilities. Keep hikes short, take a more leisurely pace, and avoid rough terrain if your dog is arthritic. If he starts hanging back or panting a lot, it’s time to stop for a rest. Offer him
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COMMUNICATORS
INTEGRATIVE VETS Affordable Holistic Animal Therapies West Hollywood, CA USA Phone: 323-304-2984 Ballantrae Animal Hospital Margaret Hacking, DVM Stouffville, ON Canada Phone: (905) 640-6809 Website: www.AnimalWellnessCentre.com Beechmount Animal Hospital Waterloo, ON Canada Phone: (519) 888-6590 Website: www.beechmountanhosp.ca Dr. Lisa Burgess Millgrove Veterinary Services Millgrove, ON Canada Phone: (905) 690-4557 Email: service@burgessvet.com Website: www.millgrovevet.com Sharon R. Doolittle, DVM, Inc. Smithfield, RI USA Phone: (401) 349-2668 Email: vetinfo@holisticanimalvet.com Website: www.holisticanimalvet.com
Janice DeFonda Can We Talk Fayetteville, NY USA Phone: (315) 329-0116 Email: angelwhispurr@gmail.com Website: www.angelwhispurr.com
Dr. Autumn Drouin, DVM, ND and Dr. Sasan Haghighat (Hyatt), DVM, CVA North-East Newmarket Veterinary Service Newmarket, ON Canada Phone: (905) 830-1030 Email: holisticveterinarian@gmail.com Website: www.holistic-vet.ca
Animal Wellness
• Acupuncture • Chiropractic •Conventional Medicine •Therapeutic Nutrition •Traditional Chinese Medicine Guelph, Ontario, Canada (519)836-2782 www.GuelphVet.com info@GuelphVet.com Harwood Oaks Animal Clinic Bedford, TX USA Phone: 817-354-7676 Website: www.harwoodoaksanimalclinic.com Hawks Prairie Veterinary Hospital Lacey, WA USA Phone: (360) 459-6556 Email: hawksprairievet@yahoo.com Website: www.hawksprairieveterinaryhospital.com Holistic Animal Care Stephanie Chalmers, DVM, CVH Santa Rosa, CA USA Phone: (707) 538-4643 Home Vet Weston, CT USA Phone: (203) 222-7979 Website: www.homevet.com
Carrie Hutchinson, VMD Rockledge Veterinary Clinic Rockledge, PA USA Phone: (215) 379-1677 Email: info@rockledgevet.com Website: www.rockledgevet.com
Essex Animal Hospital Essex, ON CAN Phone: (519) 776-7325 Email: info@essexanimalhospital.ca Website: www.essexanimalhospital.ca Family Veterinary Center Haydenville, MA USA Phone: (413) 268-8387 Website: www.famvets.com
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Individualized, Integrative Veterinary Care
Horizon Veterinary Services Susan Maier, DVM Simpsonville, KY USA Phone: (502) 722-8231 Email: horizonvetserv@yahoo.com Website: www.horizonvetserv.com
Lydia Hiby Mysticviz Burbank, CA USA Phone: (818)-244-0091 Website: www.lydiahiby.com Lynn McKenzie Animal Energy Sedona, AZ USA Phone: (512) 827-0505 x 8642 Email: lynn@animalenergy.com Website: www.animalenergy.com
Dr. Caroline Goulard, DVM, CCRT, CVA, CVPP Paws on the Go Laguna Woods, CA USA Phone: (949) 707-1696 Email: cgoulard@pawsonthego.net Website: www.pawsonthego.net
Integrated Veterinary Clinic Sacramento, CA USA Phone: 916-454-1825 Gail Jewell, DVM Kelowna, BC Canada Phone: (888) 622-8300 Website: www.holisticvet.ca
communicators • integrative vets • natural products • pet psychics • publications • Reiki therapy • schools & wellness education • shelters & rescues •
REIKI THERAPY Aileen D’Angelo, RMT, Cn. TPM Hoof, Paw & Claw Reiki Northboro, MA USA Phone: (508) 393-3684 Email: hoofpawclaw@verizon.net Website: www.reikiforcritters.com
PET PSYCHICS
Amy Pikalek Hikari Natural Healing Madison, WI USA Phone: (608) 886-8778 Email: hikarihealing@yahoo.com Website: www.hikarihealing.com
SCHOOLS & WELLNESS EDUCATION
Dr. Shawn Messonnier Paws and Claws Vet Clinic Plano, TX USA Phone: (972) 712-0893 Email: shawnvet@sbcglobal.net Website: www.pettogethers.net/healthypet Mark Newkirk, VMD Newkirk Family Veterinarians Egg Harbor Township, NJ USA Phone: (609) 645-2120 Email: mnewk@alternativevet.com Website: www.alternativevet.com
PetMassage, Ltd. Toledo, OH USA Toll Free: (800) 779-1001 Phone: (419) 475-3539 Email: info@petmassage.com Website: www.petmassage.com
PUBLICATIONS
Healing Touch for Animals Highlands Ranch, CO USA Phone: (303) 470-6572 Email: drea@healingtouchforanimals.com Website: www.healingtouchforanimals.co Well Animal Institute Brighton, CO USA Phone: (303) 514-0076 Email: info@wellanimalinstitute.com Website: www.wellanimalinstitute.com
NATURAL PRODUCT
SHELTERS & RESCUES
MANUFACTURERS & DISTRIBUTORS
Alaskan Malamute Mt. Gilead, OH USA Phone: (419) 512-2423 Email: shaman@brightnet.net
Azmira Holistic Animal Care Tuscon, AZ USA Phone: (800) 497-5665 Email: info@azmira.com Website: www.azmira.com
American Brittany Rescue Sugar Grove, IL USA Phone: (866) BRIT-911 Email: rhonda@americanbrittanyrescue.org Website: www.americanbrittanyrescue.org
NATURAL PRODUCT RETAILERS Dog Gone Dirt All Natural Dog & Horse Skin Care Products Crescent City, FL USA Phone: (386) 559-3454 Email: doggonedirt@yahoo.com Website: www.doggonedirt.com
Animal Avengers Los Angeles, CA USA Phone: (323) 655-4220 Email: admin@animalavengers.com Website: www.animalavengers.com
Advertise your business in the Wellness Resource Guide
1-866-764-1212
June/July 2018
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This column features articles from our library at AnimalWellnessMagazine.com
WHY YOUR DOG OR CAT NEEDS
D gs Cats
By Shawn Messonnier, DVM
FIBER You know it’s important to have fiber in your own diet, but did you know it’s also essential for your animal companion?
When you think of food ingredients for your dog or cat, I’ll bet fiber isn’t the first that comes to mind. Yet it’s an important component of your animal’s diet. Supplementing with fiber can be beneficial in promoting proper health and aiding in the treatment of various medical problems.
water from them, making the stools dry, hard and difficult to pass. In severe cases, the colon can become grossly enlarged and the animal will develop megacolon, which can require surgery. Thankfully this condition is extremely rare in dogs and infrequent in cats.
CONSTIPATION
Pets with constipation act like they’re trying to eliminate, but pass little or nothing. Occasionally, only small amounts of loose or hard stool are passed. Because animals with urinary and prostate problems may show similar signs, immediate evaluation by your veterinarian is essential. Some animals with constipation have GI obstructions, but most have idiopathic disease, meaning the exact cause is unknown.
Fiber is often used for various GI disorders, most commonly constipation. Constipation occurs when an animal has difficulty eliminating feces; the feces produced are usually dry and hard. If feces are not eliminated in a timely fashion, the colon will absorb excess
Fiber supplementation to treat constipation is helpful because the extra fiber retains moisture, loosening the feces and encouraging frequent bowel emptying.
FIBER CAN HELP WITH A RANGE OF DISEASES Fiber supplementation can be beneficial for various medical problems in dogs and cats. These include GI disorders, diabetes and obesity.
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DIARRHEA Interestingly, because fiber retains water and increases GI transit time, fiber also aids in treating diarrhea. Fiber absorbs extra water in diarrheic stools. Some fiber is broken down in the intestine into fatty acids. These fatty acids aid in preventing overgrowth of harmful bacteria. Note that as with constipation, a cause should always be sought for animals with diarrhea. For those in which a cause is found, treating it often cures the problem; fiber supplementation assists in correcting the diarrhea while the underlying issue resolves. I add fiber supplementation to the diets of patients with both diarrhea and constipation (along with other herbs, enzymes, and probiotics).
HAIRBALLS These commonly occur in cats, and even occasionally in dogs. It’s tempting to reach for commercial flavored gel products that supposedly lubricate the hair in the stomach, but I have not seen great success with some of these. They are also messy, difficult to administer, and often contain lots of sugar for palatability; many are nothing more than flavored petroleum jelly (not the most natural thing to give our cats and dogs).
WHAT IS FIBER?
Fiber is one of three types of carbohydrates (sugars and starches are the other two). It’s the indigestible part of the plant. It forms the structure of the plant and comes in two forms, soluble and insoluble (see sidebar on page 74). Both types are important for health. Fiber increases the bulk of fecal material and encourages normal bowel movements. It also promotes satiety, a feeling of fullness, and helps prevent overeating and obesity. Fiber can also improve blood sugar control and stabilize blood fat (cholesterol) levels.
I’ve had great success controlling hairballs using a fiber supplement combined with a proprietary combination of enzymes and probiotics.
DIABETES Fiber supplementation is also helpful for dogs and cats with diabetes. Dietary fiber binds to sugars in the GI tract, and modifies genes in the intestinal cells that increase insulin sensitivity and regulate intestinal production of glucose. (Intestinal cells
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produce glucose in between meals and while the animal is sleeping via a process called intestinal gluconeogenesis; dietary fiber plus healthy intestinal bacteria help regulate this through the expression of various genes.)
OBESITY High fiber diets are also often used for dogs and cats with weight gain and obesity. Fiber creates a feeling of fullness that reduces hunger and cravings as well as begging. Because fiber takes up space that could be occupied by fats and carbohydrates, high fiber diets tend to be lower in calories, which also aids in weight loss and control. My main concern with many of the commercial high fiber obesity diets on the market, however, is that most are not “holistic” and contain various by-products and chemicals. Additionally, some are not particularly tasty due to the quantity of fiber in the food, which can discourage cats and dogs from eating. To overcome the lack of holistic ingredients in these foods, my goal is to have my patients eat them for no more than a year, then to place them on a natural diet with portion control to prevent them from regaining the weight. Low fat vegetable or meat broths help flavor the food.
TWO TYPES OF
FIBER
• SOLUBLE FIBER dissolves in water, whereas insoluble fiber does not. Soluble fiber attracts water and forms a gel, which slows down digestion, delays emptying of the stomach, and makes the animal feel full to help control weight. Delayed stomach emptying may also stabilize blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity to assist in controlling diabetes. Common dietary sources of soluble fiber include oatmeal/oats/oat bran, flaxseeds and psyllium. • INSOLUBLE FIBER has a laxative effect and adds bulk to the diet, helping to prevent constipation. These fibers do not dissolve in water, so they pass through the gastrointestinal tract relatively intact, speeding the passage of food and waste through the tract and aiding in GI detoxification. Insoluble fiber is mainly found in whole grains and vegetables, including seeds, nuts, barley, brown rice, and most leafy and “stemmy” vegetables and fruits.
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y ANAL SAC IMPACTION Fiber supplementation has proven very effective in controlling anal sac impaction. One theory about this problem concerns the incomplete emptying of the sacs during normal bowel movements. Providing fiber in a tasty supplement can encourage more complete emptying of anal sac contents (glandular secretions) in their liquid state, before they solidify and impact the anal sac. In my practice, I’ve noticed many fewer anal sac impactions by using a proprietary formulation of several different fibers. In people, fiber supplementation may reduce the risk of colon cancer, and likely other cancers as well. In theory, insoluble fiber works by adding bulk to the feces, moving them through the GI tract quickly and reducing the colon’s contact time with potential toxins; bulky feces that capture water can also dilute potential carcinogens. Fiber can reduce the growth of pathogenic bacteria and encourage healthy bacterial growth in the colon, which can reduce toxins that may cause cancer. Supplementing with fiber in the form of freshly ground flaxseed (due to its lignan content) may have some of the benefits seen in humans, so I recommend it for all of my cancer patients along with immune-boosting cancer supplements.
u HEART DISEASE Finally, while fiber has shown benefits in people with heart disease (due to cholesterol regulation), I have not seen any studies showing its benefits in animals with similar problems. However, since fiber may have unproven benefits, and since fiber supplementation is not harmful, it can certainly be considered for dogs and cats with heart disease, as well as those with high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. In conclusion, fiber is an important part of your dog or cat’s diet. It helps control appetite, reduces the calorie count of his food, and promotes normal GI function and blood glucose levels. Fiber supplementation is helpful for animals with GI problems, diabetes, and anal sac issues, and is safe and inexpensive. There are no side effects to fiber supplementation. However, large amounts of fiber could theoretically cause constipation, or bind important dietary nutrients or medications, so it’s important to work with your veterinarian to determine the best fiber supplements, and their dosage.
Business Profile
Biologic By Matthew Berk
This company combines science with nature to develop holistic solutions for common health problems in cats and dogs. ust like us, dogs and cats experience health issues such as digestive ailments, joint problems, skin concerns, allergies, weight struggles and energy imbalances. A growing number of pet parents want to treat these issues as holistically as possible. One company that meets these needs is BiologicVET. Inspired by the knowledge that cats and dogs have unique biological makeups that require specific nutrients, this company creates quality holistic supplements just for animals.
Dedicated to ensuring quality from the first stages of production, BiologicVET purchases or grows the highest grade ingredients. They also screen and test the ingredients at every subsequent stage. Taking a page from nature, the company makes sure its products contain no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. In order to guarantee freshness, each product is carefully preserved with meticulous climate and production controls, and airtight packaging.
BiologicVET hit the market in 2002, after several years of focusing on veterinary practices only, and has become a leader in the field of complementary and alternative animal health care. Their products include vitamins, minerals, enzymes, herbal extracts, amino acids and antioxidants, all formulated to maximize the nutritional content of a dog or cat’s diet. All ingredients are naturally-sourced, and specifically chosen for their high nutrient bioavailability.
BiologicVET’s aim is to give pet guardians the rewarding experience of an optimally healthy and happy dog or cat. “Our message and mission is about physical and psychological health for our pets and ourselves,” explains Ken. “We feel honored to be a part of the increasing awareness of pet health, and in doing so, spreading an uplifting and joyful message.” In addition to offering free in-person and online support to pet parents, the company also supports retailers and veterinarians in fundraising activities that better the lives of cats and dogs.
The company’s products come in two forms, – powder or liquid. “The foundation of each powder formula starts with what I call BioFIBRE, a prebiotic lignan-rich blend of organic de-fatted flax, sunflower and sesame seed fiber,” explains Ken Cowan, the company’s National Sales Manager. “We source organic seeds locally from Canadian and US farmers and produce the blend in our facility in Lynden, Washington, along with the flax oil used in our liquid BioFATS.” The end result is supplements that support healthy immune, hormone and metabolic function, and ensure efficient nutrient delivery to the animal’s body.
According to Ken, the best part of working at BiologicVET is helping and educating others. “There seems to be so much misinformation about nutrition for dogs and cats,” he says. “We are so bombarded with what is right and wrong that it can become impossible to decide what is best for our furry companions. I research the truth from all available sources and put together a consensus of information that I believe makes common sense. Hearing success stories from those I have spoken to makes it all worthwhile.” June/July 2018
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An adventure dog named
Cat
By Ramona Marek
THIS ACTIVE YOUNG CATAHOULA DOG IS A PERFECT MATCH FOR PROFESSIONAL ADVENTURE COUPLE, EMILY HARRINGTON AND ADRIAN BALLINGER.
When you’ve stood atop the roof of the world and are still looking for something more in your life, what do you do? If you’re adventure couple Emily Harrington and Adrian Ballinger, you adopt an adventure dog. Meet Cat, a Catahoula pup the couple adopted from Rocket Dog Rescue in Oakland, California. Cat was living in an alley in Bakersfield before being rescued. “I saw her pop up on Rocket Dog’s Instagram feed and immediately fell in love,” says Emily “We called Adrian’s sister, had her put in a good word for us (we had already filed an application with Rocket Dog), and drove to Oakland the next day to meet her.” But adopting Cat wasn’t an impulsive decision. As professional athletes, the couple’s independent goals mean they often spend time apart. Emily is a professional rock climber, a five-time U.S. National Champion in sport climbing, and winner of two North American Championships. Her adventures have taken her around the world, from Yosemite’s El Capitan, to big walls in Morocco, and the summit of Mount Everest. Adrian is a world class mountaineer, skier and mountain guide. He holds several mountaineering firsts: he was the first to ski Nepal’s Manaslu, the world’s eighth highest mountain, and the first to summit three 8,000-meter peaks in three weeks. In 2017, he summited Mount Everest without the use of supplemental oxygen – an achievement fewer than 200 people have accomplished.
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Yet despite all they have done, Emily and Adrian wanted something more – something beyond their careers, and something to ground them. “As professional athletes, everything is about us, and it’s always been that way,” says Emily. “I think we had both come to a point where we were ready to be less selfish. For me, personally, I get really burned out from traveling all the time. I always want to be home more than I am. I saw adopting a dog as a way to nudge us both in that direction. We thought a dog would not be as intense as a child (duh!), but would still challenge us in a different way from our current jobs and lives. Cat was beautiful and Rocket Dog said she needed an active home – so we went for it.” Catahoula dogs are affectionate and intelligent. They’re also active dogs that need daily attention, exercise and training, so Emily and Adrian were the perfect match for Cat. The couple wanted Cat to do everything possible with them – ski, run, climb, etc. – and used a trainer in Reno, Nevada to help them. “We knew it was important to have a well-behaved dog, and would have struggled on our own, so we weren’t afraid to get help,” Emily says. “We continue to train her every day. It’s a constant process, but it’s really cool to see how smart and adaptable Cat is.”
Cat accompanies Emily and Adrian almost everywhere, from the California mountains where they live to different locales across the US, and has racked up an impressive list of adventure feats. She goes skiing, swimming, running, climbing and flying with the couple (Adrian has his pilot’s license), and Emily says she rolls with it all. “She’s been climbing with us in Kentucky, and just recently in Las Vegas,” Emily says. “She also loves running in the sand and snow – she’s so fast!” To help the couple keep track of her during their adventures, while also keeping tabs on her fitness levels, Cat wears a Whistle GPS Pet Tracker and Activity Monitor on her collar. As active as Cat is, she also has a mellow side. Understandably, she doesn’t like exercising on hot days, and prefers to catnap in the sun. She often accompanies Adrian to the office of his adventure company, Alpenglow Expeditions in Squaw Valley, California. “That she can be calm and relaxed all day is probably good for Adrian and me, because we don’t always do that very well ourselves!” Emily says. By rescuing Cat, Emily and Adrian gave her a second chance at life – and by all accounts it’s a dream life for this active canine. But she isn’t the only one who has benefitted from the adoption. For all their worldly adventures and accomplishments, Emily says that adding Cat to the family seems to have filled a missing piece in their lives. “I really don’t think we could imagine life without her anymore. She has given us more purpose, more love, more joy – all the things everyone says happen when you adopt a dog. But she’s also helped us mellow out more. We are more likely to enjoy hanging out at the lake or taking a walk than we were before, just for Cat’s enjoyment – and ours in turn. Never once have I thought ‘Oh, if only we didn’t have our dog, we could do this or that”, because life with Cat is just so much better than it was before.”
Adventure couple Adrian Ballinger and Emily Harrington pose with Cat on one of their mountain hikes.
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to the rescue National Brittany Rescue &Rescue Adoption Network code: NBRAN
Clockwise from left: Lindy, one of the Indiana 11, is thriving at her new home. Annual fundraisers at pet stores allow NBRAN to find homes for their adoptable dogs.
LOCATION: The network has foster homes across the US and Canada. YEAR ESTABLISHED: 2001 NUMBER OF STAFF/VOLUNTEERS/OR FOSTER HOMES: “We have over 500 volunteers and about 50 active foster homes,” says Susan Spaid, president. TYPES OF ANIMAL THEY WORK WITH: Brittany Spaniels and mixes FUNDRAISING PROJECTS: NBRAN’s annual fundraisers include an appeal letter to contributors, as well as a calendar featuring images of their rescue dogs. They also host auctions and raffles on an as-needed basis. In special cases, when dogs require expensive medical care, larger projects are organized. “We did a Giving Grid where folks could donate and then post a picture of their dogs,” says Susan. “That was very well received.” FAVORITE RESCUE STORY: In April of 2016, NBRAN’s Ohio Coordinator and Board Member, Gaye Bricker, was on Facebook when she saw that a shelter in Indiana had rescued 11 dogs who were locked in a house for two years. “The owner of the house would stop occasionally and throw in a bag of dog food, and their only source of water was the toilet,” explains Susan. “The rescue team found five
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deceased dogs and a home that was uninhabitable, with dog feces several inches thick covering the floors.” Gaye realized the dogs were purebred French Brittanys, and immediately called Susan to inform her of the situation. She asked if she could call the shelter and offer to take the dogs. Susan, of course, was quick to agree. The dogs were under underweight, flea-ridden, and suffering from worms and skin problems. Several needed surgery. Once their primary health concerns were addressed, NBRAN transported them to a kennel in Ohio where they were boarded until foster homes could be found. “A group of Ohio NBRAN volunteers were there to help the dogs move into their new temporary digs,” says Susan. The following week, the dogs went to foster homes in Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania and New York. They all adjusted quickly, happy to be showered with love, healthy food and fresh air. “After a few weeks, when we were sure all their medical needs were addressed, the dogs were put on our website for adoption,” says Susan. “The applications came pouring in and all the dogs happily moved to their forever homes. We get updates periodically and they are all doing great.”
facebook.com/NationalBrittanyRescueAdoptionNetworknbran/
Animal Wellness has supported rescue efforts for almost 15 years and is a proud partner of Best Friends Animal Society. This column honors the work of shelters and rescues across North America. For their full stories, visit www.AnimalWellnessMagazine.com
CANADA RESCUES
USA RESCUES
Boxer Rescue Ontario Burlington, Ontario Rescue Code: BOXER www.boxerrescueontario.com
A Different Breed Animal Rescue Organization Dallas, Texas Rescue Code: ADBRESCUE www.adifferentbreed.org
Dhana Metta Rescue Society Surrey, British Columbia Rescue Code: DHANA www.dhanamettarescuesociety.org
All Aboard Animal Rescue Fort Collins, California Rescue Code: AAAR www.aaanimalrescue.org
Grand River All Breed Rescue Cambridge, Ontario Rescue Code: GRAB www.grandriveallbreedrescue.ca
Anchors Up Rescue Group Las Vegas, Nevada Rescue Code: ANCHORSUP www.anchorsuprescuegroup.org
Home At Last Dog Rescue Surrey, British Columbia Rescue Code: HALDR www.homeatlastdogrescuebc.ca
Ark Animal Sanctuary Houlton, Maine Rescue Code: ARK www.arksanctuary.com
K9 Crusaders Cobourg, Ontario Rescue Code: K9C www.k9c.ca
Basset Rescue Of Old Dominion Charlottesville, Virginia Rescue Code: BROOD www.brood-va.org
Little Paws Rescue Society Vancouver, British Columbia Rescue Code: LPRS www.littlepawsrescue.ca
Big Fluffy Dog Rescue Nashville, Tennessee Rescue Code: BFDR www.bigfluffydogs.com
Marshall’s Dog Rescue Perth, Ontario Rescue Code: MARSHALL www.marshalldogrescue.com
Blind Dog Rescue Alliance Seymour, Connecticut Rescue Code: BDRA www.blinddogrescue.org
Precious Paws Rescue Barrie, Ontario Rescue Code: PPR www.preciouspawsrescue.ca
Blue Ridge Boxer Rescue Hickory, North Carolina Rescue Code: BRBR www.blueridgeboxerrescue.com
Ruff Start New Beginnings Colborne, Ontario Rescue Code: RSNB www.ruffstartnewbeginnings.com
Central Ohio Pomeranian Rescue Delaware, Ohio Rescue Code: COPR www.ohiopomrescue.com
Save Our Scruff Toronto, Ontario Rescue Code: SOS www.saveourscruff.org
DC Shiba Inu Rescue Washington, DC Rescue Code: DCSIR www.dcsir.org
Snookie’s Society Toronto, Ontario Rescue Code: SNOOKIE www.snookiessociety.com
Fetching Tails Foundation Itasca, Illinois Rescue Code: AWA283 www.fetchingtailsfoundation.com
TEAM Dog Rescue Toronto, Ontario Rescue Code: TEAM www.teamdogrescue.ca
Floyd Felines Rome, Georgia Rescue Code: FLOYD www.floydfelines.com
The Animal Guardian Society Oshawa, Ontario Rescue Code: TAGS www.animalguardian.org
Forever Loved Pets Sanctuary Scottsdale, Arizona Rescue Code: FLPS www.foreverlovedpets.org
Zoe’s Animal Rescue Society Edmonton, Alberta Rescue Code: ZOE www.zoesanimalrescue.org
Friends of Upland Animal Shelter Upland, California Rescue Code: FRIENDS www.friendsofuplandanimalshelter.org
All Paws Matter Stouffville, Ontario Rescue Code: APM1423 www.allpawsmatter.ca
GREY2K USA Arlington, Massachusetts Rescue Code: GREY2K www.grey2k.org
Adopt Me Rescue Studio City, California Rescue Code: ADOPTME www.adoptmerescue.org
Good Karma Dog Rescue River Vale, New Jersey Rescue Code: GKDR www.goodkarmadogrescue.com Higher Ground Animal Sanctuary Mead, Washington Rescue Code: AWA278 www.highergroundanimalsanctuary.org Mini Mighty Mutts Phoenix, Arizona Rescue Code: AWA287 www.minimightymutts.com Outcast Rescue Catasauqua, Pennsylvania Rescue Code: OUTCAST www.outcastrescue.com PAWS Project Middleton, New England Rescue Code: PAWS www.facebook.com/PAWSMitzvah The Cat Network Miami, Florida Rescue Code: THECATNETWORK www.thecatnetwork.org The Misfits Dogs Rescue Colorado Springs, Colorado Rescue Code: MISFIT www.misfitcrusaders.com The Sanctuary For Senior Dogs Cleveland, Ohio Rescue Code: AWA092 www.sanctuaryforseniordogs.org Wags 2 Wishes Animal Rescue Plainfield, Illinois Rescue Code: W2W www.w2wrescue.com
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6 STEPS
TO HELPING YOUR NEW
RESCUE DOG SETTLE IN By Marybeth Bittel
Rescue dogs often come from situations of neglect and abuse, so may have trouble adjusting to adoption. These tips will help your new friend feel more secure as he gets used to living with you. Rescue dogs often know little beyond neglect, loneliness and abuse. Giving them loving and supportive forever homes after all they’ve suffered is wonderful. But realize that it may take time – along with preparation and patience on your part – to help a rescue dog adapt to his new circumstances. With the following suggestions, you’ll help your new friend adjust more comfortably and easily.
1. ACQUIRE THE NECESSARY SUPPLIES
Before your new dog sets foot in your home, gather some essential supplies: • Comfortable bedding: A snug, safe resting area is important; a clean, soft comforter can be just as welcoming as a fancy dog bed. • Food and water bowls: Make sure these are located in a quiet, easily accessible spot. • Harness: A harness eliminates the harmful tracheal pressure caused by a traditional collar. This can be especially important
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if your new rescue pulls or demonstrates reactivity. • Sturdy 4’ to 6’ leash: Avoid retractable leashes – they can snap, tangle or unspool, causing flight or injury. • Comfortable collar: A collar displaying your dog’s ID is vital in case he happens to escape. • First aid kit: Include gauze bandage, natural ointment, scissors, a thermometer and eye dropper. Natural calming remedies such as flower essences are also important. • Phone numbers: Keep contact numbers for your vet and local emergency pet clinic handy. • High quality dog food: More on this later.
2. EVALUATE YOUR SPACE
Consider your home’s floor plan. Where will your dog spend the most time? Will he be allowed on the bed or sofa? Are certain rooms off-limits? When you need to go out, where will he stay? Determining these answers will help you start training your dog in a clear, consistent manner.
CONSIDER THE DOG’S BACKGROUND
Your rescue dog may sometimes need to retreat if he’s feeling overwhelmed, so create at least one quiet “safe zone”, preferably in a lower-traffic area. Include soft bedding and a few toys. Whenever your dog ventures into this area, reward and praise Many adopters view the process of taking in a rescue him to create positive associations. “Some rescue dogs feel dog from their own perspective only, which includes safe in a small, confined space; while others do not,” adds feelings of affection and anticipation. Michelle Lenz, animal care manager at Chicagoland’s Naperville Area Humane Society. If your dog falls into the However, the rescue dog may have come from a background former camp, consider an appropriately-sized pet crate or of pain, cruelty and punishment. Once rescued, he’ll have kennel. Line it with a soft blanket or towel, and keep the spent time in an unfamiliar shelter surrounded by new scents, door propped open. incessant barking, and the anxious energy of other animals.
3. “DOG-PROOF” YOUR HOME
So it’s not surprising that he may not be as happy and Move or eliminate poisonous plants. Store canine-toxic foods excited about being adopted into your home as you are. like chocolate, alcohol, coffee, raisins and grapes far out of To the dog, it’s just another scary change. The people are reach. Keep medicines, cleaning chemicals and antifreeze new and the surroundings are foreign. Almost any rescue well-secured. Remember that some rescue dogs tend toward dog is bound to feel apprehensive in this situation. reactivity; fenced outdoor spaces can keep him safe and secure. Many behaviorists feel that public dog parks aren’t a good idea The first days after adopting a rescue are crucial. until you’ve developed a very clear sense of how your dog responds You’ll be establishing a foundation that will begin to other animals. shaping his new life. The steps in this article will help make this homecoming process less PAY ATTENTION TO DIET stressful for you and your new dog. Most shelters don’t have the funding to buy high quality pet food, so you will probably need to change your new dog’s diet. Making a sudden switch can often
4.
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trigger tummy troubles or loose stools, however. Ask your shelter or rescue contact which food the dog has been eating. When changing his food, do so very gradually, and make sure the new diet is the highest quality you can afford, without corn, artificial additives or by-products. Start by mixing the new food with the old in a roughly 1:4 ratio, respectively, and slowly shift the proportions over two to three weeks.
5. BE PREPARED TO CHANGE YOUR SCHEDULE
Once you’ve welcomed your new friend, try to keep your schedule clear for a bit. “Having a couple of days to spend with your dog is ideal,” says Michelle. “It's also wise to avoid taking any trips shortly after you adopt.” Likewise, resist the urge to stage a noisy meet-and-greet with friends until your dog feels more comfortable. Even if your rescue is supposedly housebroken, be ready for a few accidents. Remain positive and encouraging. Each time your pooch eliminates outdoors, reward and praise him. If you catch him eliminating inside, hurry him outdoors to finish, then pour on the praise once again. Shape new behaviors by rewarding what you want.
6. STAY POSITIVE AND PATIENT
Many trainers stress a positive attitude as a cardinal rule. “Punishment can make a dog fearful – and it opens the door to other problems, such as aggression and escalating anxiety,” says Michelle. “It's important to take things slowly, and not overstimulate your dog.” Conversely, don't feel the need to smother him. Allow him some time to get the lay of the land. “It’s especially important to have patience,” adds Michelle. A rescue dog often needs time, understanding and reassurance to settle into a new home. Applying these suggestions will help ease the way for both of you.
“It's important to take things very slowly, and not overstimulate your dog.”
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book reviews
Title: Train Your Dog Now! Author: Jennifer L. Summerfield, DVM, CPDT-KA Need some help training your new pup? Looking to teach your old dog some new tricks? In her new book, Train Your Dog Now!, veterinarian and professional dog trainer, Dr. Jennifer L. Summerfield, makes teaching your canine companion as easy as 1-2-3. Featuring reward-based techniques that work, this concise volume is a quick read that delivers even quicker results. Inside, you’ll find simple solutions to common behavior problems, step-by-step instructions on teaching common obedience skills and tricks, and a brief but insightful exploration into how dogs learn. Discover how to curb chewing and jumping, train him to “sit”, “wait” and “leave it”, and learn how to find a behavioral professional if help is needed. Dr. Summerfield’s knowledge, combined with a practical no-nonsense design, makes Train Your Dog Now! a must-have tool for dog guardians everywhere. Whether your dog is old, young, aggressive, anxious, or just plain stubborn, this book will help shape him into a well-behaved and well-rounded companion.
Publisher: Adams Media
Title: Love Unleashed Author: Rebecca Ascher-Walsh There’s no denying it – dogs are a gift to humankind. Inspired by the unconditional love of canines, author Rebecca Ascher-Walsh set out to compile a heartwarming collection of stories that celebrate the human-canine relationship. The result is Love Unleashed, a book packed with tales of remarkable dogs who have transcended the meaning of true friendship. Love Unleashed introduces readers to 38 extraordinary dogs, each with his or her own uplifting story. Meet a rescue dog from Syria who miraculously reunites with his family in Canada after a missile destroys their home; shelter puppy Hattie Mae, who meets a nine-year-old girl in a prosthetics clinic and becomes her lifelong friend; and even a crime-fighting dog named Shaya who is trained to fight illegal poachers. Captivating images and direct quotes from the people affected by these four-legged protagonists are the cherry on top of this delightful read.
Whether or not you have a canine companion of your own, this book will tug at your heartstrings and remind you of the unparalleled love and courage that dogs possess. Publisher: National Geographic
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EVENTS
Woofstock 2018 May 26 – 27, 2018 — Toronto, ON
SuperZoo 2018 June 26 – 28, 2018 — Las Vegas, NV
16th Annual Dog Days of Scugog July 22, 2018 — Port Perry, ON
Woofstock is, without question, the largest outdoor festival for dogs in all of North America. This world-famous festival draws vendors from across Canada and the US. There isn’t a toy, fashion line, accessory, and type of treat or exclusive service for dogs that you can’t find at Woofstock.
SuperZoo is the pet industry’s leading place for business with a combination of fun and function. No wonder pet professionals love it! Come out this year to network, expand your customer base and improve your sales.
Come out and enjoy a weekend jam-packed with howling good fun that promotes the proper training and care of dogs, and to celebrate the joy of sharing life with canine friends.
Quirky and fun, Summer Woofstock is a free, non-stop two-day party taking place at Woodbine Park in Toronto Beaches, the City’s most dog “Paws-itive” neighborhood!
Mr. Spot Dog Camp July 15 – 21, 2018 — Kingston, ON
For more information: info@woofstock.com www.woofstock.ca 11th Annual Whisker Walk June 3, 2018 — Bolton, MA Whisker Walk has something for everyone with two legs or four! Spectacular exhibits, demonstrations, hands-on animal petting opportunities, educational programs, special attractions, kids area, rides, adoptable pets, product giveaways, raffles, auctions, Agility Course, Frisbee Dog Show, Ask the Vet, FREE rabies vaccines, low cost micro-chipping, lots of food, fun and things for adults and kids to see, do and buy! For more information: (774) 452-1131 whiskerwalkbolton@gmail.com www.whiskerwalk.org
If you've always wanted to try a variety of dog sports, this is the camp for you. New! All-inclusive: 6-night accommodation for you and your dog. All meals and a variety of dog sports to try! Come and enjoy agility, obedience, rally, lure coursing and more for dogs of every breed, size, and age. Space is limited! Register now for early booking discount. For more information: (613) 530-SPOT info@mrspotdogcamp.com www.mrspotdogcamp.com/ Paw-Palooza of Cape Cod July 14 – 15, 2018 —Yarmouth, MA
Bark in the Park June 10, 2018 — London, ON Join a fun-filled day for pets and the people who love them! The Bark in the Park Festival is the largest fundraiser for the London Humane Society and helps care for nearly 2,000 animals that are abused, neglected, abandoned or no longer able to be cared for by their owners. Help us reach our fundraising goal of $100,000 by collecting pledges and you’ll be automatically entered to win great prizes! For more information: events@londonhumane.ca http://londonhumanesociety.ca/ WienerFest Home Country Festival June 23, 2018 — Embro, ON Canada’s Largest Breed Specific Event! Helping homeless pets and celebrating all that is dachshund. Join in at the Embro Recreational Arena for a fun-filled day of over 100+ exhibitors, a costume contest, ask a trainer or vet, puppy races and more! For more information: (519) 421-8131 info@wienerfest.ca http://wienerfest.ca/
For more information: (800) 999-729 info@wpamail.org www.superzoo.org
Paw-Palooza is “paws down” Cape Cod’s biggest, wildest and most entertaining annual dog festival! Held each July, the twoday extravaganza hosted by the Agway of Cape Cod Charitable Foundation features entertainment, activities, and food for dogs and their people! And best of all, it raises some serious dough for animal welfare organizations on the Cape. For more information: info@pawpaloozacapecod.com https://pawpaloozacapecod.com/
We provide everything you and your canine companion could want! Enter a contest, participate in an agility course, talk to breeders and animal rescue agencies, or buy one of the hundreds of amazing products from our vendors. For more information: museum@scugog.ca http://www.scugog.ca/museum Imperial Beach Surf Dog Competition July 29, 2018 — Imperial Beach, CA Get stoked! Enjoy fearless surFUR dogs that will jump on their boards and hang 20! Check out the action adjacent to the Imperial Beach Pier, where more than 60 dogs are expected to participate in this family-friendly event, which raises funds for the San Diego Humane Society. Besides the surfing action, there will be dog adoptions, exhibitors, food trucks, a beer garden and more! Admission is free to spectate; registration fees to surf your dog $65 – $75. For more information: (949) 297-6536 info@bookthatevent.com https://surfdogevents.com/
Best Friends National Conference July 19 – 21, 2018 — Los Angeles, CA The Best Friends National Conference is a place where you can learn, share and connect with like-minded people from around the country. With workshops and speakers on nearly every aspect of the no-kill movement, the conference has something for everyone. You’ll be joined by more than a thousand fellow animal lovers, united by a passion for saving the lives of homeless pets. And true to Hollywood style, this event will be all about our favorite celebrities — the kind that have four legs and like to cuddle. For more information: conferences@bestfriends.org http://bestfriends.org/events/best-friends-national-conference
Email your event to: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com
June/July 2018
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MARKETPLACE
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Animal Wellness
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classifieds Animal Communicators CAROL SCHULTZ – Animal Communicator/Intuitive Healing Support. Interactive, compassionate, practical, and insightful Consultations and Energy Balancing for all species. Assistance with emotional, behavioral, physical, end of life, and animals of spirit. Classes & mentoring available. (815) 531-2850 www.carolschultz.com SHIRLEY SCOTT – Internationally known Animal Communicator & Clairvoyant connects with your pets here or in spirit. She reads emotional/behavior/health problems, provides classes & workshops in animal communication & training. (541) 577-3051, sscott@shirley-scott.com, www.shirley-scott.com
Association INTERNATIONAL ASS’N OF ANIMAL MASSAGE & BODYWORK/ASS’N OF CANINE WATER THERAPY – Welcome trained practitioners of Animal Massage and Bodywork. The IAAMB/ACWT supports and promotes the practitioners of complementary care for animals through networking, continuing education, website, online referrals, newsletters, insurance, annual educational conferences, lobbying and credentialing of schools. www.IAAMB.org
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Books & Publications 1000's OF DOG BOOKS, EBOOKS, DVDS AND TRAINING TOOLS IN STOCK - Ready to ship! Learn like the Pros. (800) 776-2665; Dogwise.com
Holistic Veterinarians EAST YORK ANIMAL CLINIC HOLISTIC CENTRE – Dr. Paul McCutcheon, Dr. Cindy Kneebone & Dr. Candice Chiu. The first and oldest integrative veterinary clinic in Ontario with over fifty years of service to the community and our collective veterinarian experience of 95 years. We provide a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic methods utilizing the latest research in integrative medicine. Please visit our website to explore our services. www.eastyorkanimalclinic.com eyac@holisticpetvet.com (416) 757-3569, 805 O’Connor Drive, Toronto, ON, M4B 2S7 GUELPH ANIMAL HOSPITAL – Offers a full range of conventional veterinary services as well as acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, herbal and nutritional. Dr. Rob Butler is certified in Veterinary Acupuncture and is also trained in Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine. Dr. Smolkin is certified in Animal Chiropractic. By integrating conventional and complementary therapies, treatments can be tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences. Contact Guelph Animal Hospital at (519) 836-2781 or www.guelphvet.com
MAIN STREET VETERINARY SERVICES – Our mission is to help guide our animal companions to better health naturally. We provide a variety of veterinary medical services for pets from conventional services to holistic services such as chiropractic or acupuncture care. Our commitment to our patients, high quality customized medicine and customer service will be evident in all that we do. 2360 Main Street, London, ON N6P 1P9. (519) 203-2000; www.mainstreetvetservices.ca/
Schools & Training PETMASSAGE (FOR DOGS) TRAINING AND RESEARCH INSTITUTE – “Remove Disease from Your Pet’s Body Using Only Your Hands.” Skype and written interview: Jonathan Rudinger with Dr. Karen Becker – Dr. Mercola’s August 2014 Healthy Pets Newsletter: Link on homepage of www.petmassage.com WALKS ‘N’ WAGS PET FIRST AID – National Leaders in Pet First Aid Certification Courses for dogs and cats. Learn preventative skills and practice emergency bandaging with live wiggly pets. Distance Learning also available. www.walksnwags.com or (800) 298-1152
June/July 2018
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tail end
Dudley the
DICTATOR By Linda Young
Sir Dudley, the Prince of Pasadena, is just shy of becoming a full-fledged dictator. Our hairy Havanese dictates the terms of everything in our lives, and there is no room for negotiation. I am clearly living in a non-democratic state. Take him for a walk around the neighborhood and Dudley will stop mid-stride to plant his fluffy little derriere firmly on the sidewalk. Give a slight tug on the leash and passersby glare at me. And no, this isn’t paranoia. One more minute of gently trying to coax Dudley to move, and they are ready to report me to doggie services. Before even getting Dudley outside in the first place, one must first have one’s preliminary exercise and chase him around the living room like a wild maniac. He grins with pleasure as you get ready to reach for the defibrillator! Then, and only then, are you finally given permission to put on his harness and hold his leash. Whenever we take Dudley on an outing, he must have his state-of-the-art water bottle close by so he can spill more then he drinks, while becoming one with nature in the shadiest spot possible. I realize that he needs an umbrella to protect him from the sun. But until then, we care for Dudley’s pampered little body by maneuvering from one shady spot to the next. Dudley also dictates the terms of each and every car ride. A pushover, my husband allows him the dubious privilege of riding sidesaddle in his lap. I am vehemently opposed to dogs that are allowed to ride loose in the front seat of the car. But “the dictator”, with his award winning charm, cajoles my husband into utter compliance and complacency. We are both mesmerized by the way our fearless leader negotiates the terms of his doggie yummies. It involves leaving half the food in his bowl and depositing the other half on the floor. After all, there’s nothing more fun than tripping over kibble as you pass through the kitchen, right? Have I shared that
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Dudley also has the innate ability to balance a piece of food on his nose and then fling it in the air? (This has nothing to do with dictatorial behavior; it’s just some genes from a circus performer ancestor – but don’t tell him I said so!) At night, Dudley loves being on our bed. My husband doesn’t understand why I can’t reconfigure my space to give ample room to “the dictator”. As it is, I’m always sleep-deprived in the morning and hanging precariously off the edge of the bed. But better I should land on the floor as long as Dudley is sleeping contentedly! Some people might wonder if we would be better off without “the little dictator”. But we can unequivocally state that despite his demands, Sir Dudley, the Prince of Pasadena, makes our lives infinitely better!
feline WELLNESS Hip, cool and healthy!
PANDORA SYNDROME
– HOW STRESS CAN CONTRIBUTE TO FELINE URINARY TRACT DISEASE
GROOMING YOUR KITT Y
– TIPS TO KEEP HER LOOKING HER BEST!
CAT CHAT
LITTER BOX
MAINTENANCE MADE EASY
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT PRODUCTS FOR CONVENIENT CLEAN-UPS
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The latest in cat litter and litter box products are designed to help make clean-up a breeze.
Photo courtesy of World's Best Cat Litter
LITTER BOX CARE MADE SIMPLE. By Ann Brightman
Ask a cat lover what her least favorite job is, and she’ll probably say, “Cleaning out the litter box!” But thanks to advances in both litter and litter box technologies, this task isn’t nearly as unpleasant and time-consuming as it used to be. By choosing the right products, such as those highlighted in this article, you can make life easier, for both you and your cat.
START BY CHOOSING AN EASY-TO-CLEAN LITTER BOX Look for a well-made litter box constructed of durable materials, with features that make clean-up simpler. “A few things to look for in a good quality easy-to-use litter box include simplicity of design and easy access for scooping,” says Courtney Karsted of Grand PooBox, LLC. “Last but not least, how easy will it be to clean?”
To clean out the box, just remove the top lid from the bottom pan and begin scooping out litter from the rear receptacle. When the box needs a scrub, dump the bottom pan of litter into a bag and you're ready to wash the product.
LOOK FOR LITTERS THAT MINIMIZE WORK “The most important things to look for in a litter are ingredients and quality,” says Shannon Supanich, Marketing Manager at Pioneer Pet Products, LLC. “You want a litter that will not cause harmful dust. And make sure the product performs well – that it clumps and controls odor. You also want to ensure your cat likes it.” Continued on page 92.
Courtney’s litter box design takes all these factors into account. “Litter is kept inside the box with an internal grated ramp; when your cat walks up the ramp and out, there's less scattered litter on the outside of the box,” she explains. “We've also reduced the amount of litter required to fill the box.” June/July 2018
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?
HOW OFTEN DO I HAVE
TO SCOOP
No litter box can go days on end without being scooped – cats don’t like dirty bathrooms any more than we do – but with proper care, the litters mentioned in this article don’t need to be changed as often as lesser products do. “The more often you scoop, the better performance you’ll get from your litter,” says Michael. “We recommend removing clumps and solid waste daily, and emptying out the entire litter box once a month.” “If our litter is scooped daily, there’s no reason to change the entire box,” adds Jean. “Simply add litter every couple of days to keep the depth.” The same applies to Pioneer’s litters, according to Shannon: “We recommend daily scooping, but you only need to change over the entire pan as needed.” Makes life a lot easier, doesn’t it?
Continued from page 93. Pioneer’s SmartCat All Natural Litter is made from 100% grass, while their Lightweight Litter is made from grass and clay. Both are easy to handle, and designed to clump quickly so odors are immediately trapped. “Our litter does not stick to the bottom and sides of the pan,” Shannon adds. “This makes clean-up easier with way less waste.” She cautions that any lightweight litter will track a little, so she recommends a litter mat to make clean-up quicker. Michael Vercelletto, Marketing Director of Arm & Hammer Pet Care, agrees that easy-to-scoop litters free of dust and odor are the best choice for those looking for more convenience. “You want a good quality litter, to make the least enjoyable part of owning a cat a better experience for all involved,” he says. “Look for a litter that will seal in and destroy odors, but also consider the other factors that can make litter maintenance a chore. You’ll want a dust-free litter, such as Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal, which means no dust clouds when you pour and scoop. It’s made of a proprietary blend of moisture-absorbing particles that forms a tight seal around odor and destroys it with odor eliminators and our baking soda.” The company also offers a unique litter product called Arm & Hammer Slide. “It’s a revolutionary non-stick litter that slides right out of the pan without the need for scraping or scrubbing,” Michael says. Non-toxic materials are also important when choosing a cat litter. Along with the companies mentioned above, World’s Best Cat Litter prides itself on making litter products that are safe for cats. “We have several different formulas, but all are made from whole kernel corn and corn components,” says Jean Broders, Senior Marketing Manager. “In fact, it’s the only litter made from whole kernel corn. It naturally absorbs and eliminates odor. Beyond odor control and clumping, people want long-lasting litters. With our products’ high performance, you use less and save money. It’s also flushable, which makes for easy clean-up.” This article provides just a glimpse into the wide array of cat litters and boxes on today’s market. By choosing safe, quality products that are especially designed to streamline litter box care, you’ll save time and energy, and keep both you and your cat happy.
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Most cats do a superb job of grooming themselves, but sometimes they need a bit of assistance.
GROOMING YOUR KITTY By Ann Brightman
You’ve probably noticed that your cat spends a lot of time washing himself. Felines are fastidious by nature, and regular grooming is important to them. But sometimes they need a helping hand, especially if they’re aging, or have longer fur that tends to get matted. Following these tips will help you complement your kitty’s grooming routine and ensure a sleek, contented cat.
Brushing and combing Some cats love being groomed, but others will slink away as soon as the grooming tools appear. One way to help your cat accept some extra grooming is to use the right equipment. Avoid stiff-bristled brushes that may scratch his skin. Some pet combs are made of metal, so if this is what you have, be gentle, and use the comb on an angle to the cat’s skin, so the teeth don’t poke him. Start your grooming sessions with a wide-toothed comb. This will help remove dead undercoat and other debris. Follow up with brushing, using a
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BATH TIME!
Even the most laidback cat usually doesn’t enjoy having a bath, but you can make it less stressful with the right approach. • Choose a gentle, natural shampoo formulated specifically for cats. Avoid artificial fragrances. • A sink at waist level is best. Bending over a bathtub is hard on the back. • Put a towel on the bottom of the sink. Your cat will feel more comfortable if his feet aren’t sliding around on slippery surfaces. • You can wet and rinse the cat with a pitcher, or use a hand spray, but keep water and shampoo away from his face. Be sure to use only lukewarm water. • Stay calm and praise your cat. Getting upset because he’s anxious will only stress him more. • Soak up the moisture from his coat with a warm soft towel, then let him air dry the rest of the way. Don’t use a hair dryer – it’s too hot, and the noise may scare him.
soft-bristled brush, or a pin brush with ball-tipped pins. Be gentle, and don’t press too hard. Many cats prefer brushing to combing, as it feels more like a massage! You can also use a grooming glove, which features soft plastic bumps or tips specifically designed for removing loose fur. This might be a good alternative for cats who don’t like combs and brushes. A grooming glove closely mimics a stroking hand, and can feel more acceptable to the cat.
What to do about mats If your cat’s coat is long and prone to matting, you’ll need to take some extra time with his grooming. Daily combing and brushing can help prevent mats in the first place, but once a mat has formed, you’ll need to help your cat get rid of it. Start by trying to gently untangle the mat with a comb. Pulling at it is painful for the cat, so if a comb isn’t doing the trick, you may have to clip the mat out. This can be a tricky procedure, especially if your cat is jumpy. It’s best to have a helper hold the cat while you’re working. Use blunt-nosed scissors or clippers, take your time, and make sure you’re not getting too close to his skin. If you don’t feel comfortable removing the mat yourself, ask your vet or groomer to do it. Depending on your cat, you may need to at least brush him every day or two, although a once-weekly grooming session will be adequate for most kitties. Keep an eye on how well your cat is grooming himself, and give him some assistance when needed to help keep his coat and skin in good health.
IF YOUR CAT HATES
BEING GROOMED
It’s best to introduce your cat to regular grooming sessions while he’s still young. Most kittens will take to it fairly easily, as long as you’re gentle and keep the sessions short. Reward the kitten with a healthy treat immediately after each session so he comes to connect the comb or brush to something positive. Adult cats need a little more encouragement to accept being groomed. Start by showing your cat the comb or brush, but don’t use it yet. Let him sniff and touch it as you hold it in your hand, and give him a few treats to form a positive association. Next, stroke your cat while still holding the grooming tool, and continue to offer praise and treats. You will probably have to do this several times before your cat will allow you to actually start combing or brushing him. Be patient, and let him proceed at his own pace. When you do start grooming, keep the sessions short, and stick to his back, neck and head until he’s completely comfortable with the procedure. In time, as your cat comes to better enjoy being groomed, you may find he’ll lie down, stretch or roll around, giving you access to his belly area.
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Pandora Syndrome By Ingrid King
in cats
Feline urinary tract disease may not always be just a physical condition. Recent research has revealed that stress also plays a big role in the development of what has been termed Pandora Syndrome.
Urinary tract disease is common in cats, and can be frustrating to diagnose and treat. It’s often impossible to identify an exact cause, and affected cats frequently have multiple health problems. But recent research has revealed that stress may be a contributing factor to feline urinary problems, in what been termed Pandora Syndrome.
Cystitis in Domestic Cats – Beyond the Lower Urinary Tract”, published in the Journal of Feline Medicine. “First, it does not identify any specific cause or organ, and second, it seems to capture the dismay and dispute associated with the identification of so many problems (‘evils’) outside the organ of interest of any particular sub-specialty.”
WE’RE LEARNING MORE ABOUT FELINE URINARY TRACT DISEASE
THE STRESS CONNECTION
Our understanding of feline urinary tract disease has evolved over the last four decades. In the past, all urinary tract issues used to be grouped together under the heading FLUTD (Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease), or FIC (Feline Idiopathic Cystitis). In the 1990s, veterinarians began to make a connection between feline urinary tract problems and interstitial cystitis in women, a chronic condition in which women experience bladder pain and an increased urge to urinate. Then, in 2011, a study conducted at the Ohio State University on 32 cats over a three-year period found that stress has a significant impact on lower urinary tract health. Dr. Tony Buffington, study leader and emeritus professor of veterinary clinical sciences at the university’s College of Veterinary Medicine, coined the term Pandora Syndrome for this phenomenon. “A name like ‘Pandora’ Syndrome seems appropriate for at least two reasons,” wrote Dr. Buffington in his paper “Idiopathic
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Most cats who present with Pandora Syndrome have concurrent problems. “They have variable combinations of affected organ systems – skin, gut, lung, behavioral, endocrine, urinary, etc,” says Dr. Buffington. “They may be unusually susceptible due to adverse early life experiences that ‘sensitize’ their stress response system to environmental events.” Symptoms may come and go and are often triggered by a stressful event in the cat’s life, such as the addition of a new feline to the family, home remodeling, or a move.
TREATMENT AND PREVENTION The goal of treatment is to reduce stress and provide pain relief as needed. In all cases, environmental modification will be an important part of the solution. Litter boxes need to be kept scrupulously clean. In multi-cat households, territorial aggression needs to be prevented or reduced by providing plenty of vertical space in the form of cat trees and shelves, and hiding places such as cat cubes, tunnels and covered beds. Cat parents
also need to be conscious about managing their own stress levels, since cats tend to pick up on human stress. “We have found that MEMO – Multimodal Environmental Modification – results in a reliable reduction of all clinical signs, and improvement in the cat’s health and welfare,” says Dr. Buffington. “I see MEMO as essential preventive care for healthy cats, and as essential adjunctive care for cats with chronic health problems.” By providing an enriched environment, interactive play sessions, and simply spending more time with affected cats, the frequency of the stress response activation will be reduced, giving the affected organs a chance to heal. “When this happens, the cats recover,” says Dr. Buffington. “Whether their stress response systems return to ‘normal’ remains to be seen.” Keeping the cat’s routine consistent is also important. The Ohio State University study found that cats reacted with flare-ups to even minor changes, such as a switch in caretakers. Cat parents who are planning major changes in the household, such as remodeling, moving, or the addition of a new human or feline family member, should be aware that the added stress will often cause a recurrence of Pandora Syndrome. “Based on the latest neuro research, enrichment is a multi-faceted effort to change the life experience for these cats,” adds feline veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth Colleran. “They are more sensitive to stressors that might leave other cats unaffected. Enrichment is not just adding in good interaction – it is also recognizing and removing the experiences causing a negative emotional state.” If your cat seems prone to urinary tract problems, be sure to take him to the vet, but also consider the possibility that stress may be a contributing factor, and that your kitty may in fact be prone to Pandora Syndrome.
DIAGNOSING PANDORA SYNDROME
Since there is no one single cause of Pandora Syndrome, diagnosis can be frustrating and may require some detective work on the part of your vet. “Unfortunately, we really don’t have a ‘specialty’ to deal with anxiopathy,” says Dr. Buffington. “So patients tend to go to organ system specialists who focus too much (in my view) on the organ of their specialty, and not enough on the rest of the animal.” At a minimum, diagnosis will start with a thorough physical exam, urinalysis and bloodwork, and should also include a behavioral assessment.
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June is “Adopt-a-Cat” Month – a time to help shelters and rescues overwhelmed by kittens, and save more homeless felines in need. But what if you’re not in the position to adopt a cat right now? There are still several ways to lend a helping hand, according to Becky Robinson, president and founder of Alley Cat Allies:
Sponsor a cat. Champion the needs of a shelter cat by sharing his story on social media and help him find a forever home.
AlleyCat.org
Advocate for cats. Urge animal control agencies and shelters to implement policies that protect cats. For example, if your community does not have a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program for feral cats, contact local civic leaders and ask for it. Get involved with TNR or Shelter-Neuter-Return (SNR) programs. These approaches reduce shelter intake and euthanasia. Join the Alley Cat Allies Feral Friends Network. Become a resource for your community and help save feline lives. Volunteer at a shelter or with a rescue group. You could help by assembling a Kitten Survival Kit, with supplies local residents can use to care for kittens they may find in your community.
Photo courtesy of Alley Cat Allies
cat chat
“ADOPT-A-CAT” MONTH – HOW YOU CAN HELP
FEWER PET STORES ARE SELLING CATS (AND OTHER ANIMALS) In an effort to bring an end to unethical commercial breeders, a growing number of communities in the US and Canada are banning the sale of cats and other animals in pet stores. Though the shift has been more prominent in the US, Canada isn’t far behind. Numerous towns and cities in Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia have banned retail pet sales, including Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver. This June, according to Best Friends Animal Society, the
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city of Surrey, BC is hopping on board. Any store owner who breaks this amendment will be fined $500. Only animal shelters and rescue organizations will be able to adopt out cats and other animals. Victoria, also in BC, is expected to follow suit in the near future. For a full list of retail pet sale bans in North America, visit bestfriends.org/resources/jurisdictions-retail-pet-sale-bans.
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