Frontier Veterinary Services Preventative pet health for all: one paw at a time
2035A Alberta Avenue Saskatoon, SK S7K 1S2 Phone: 306-934-8288 Fax: 306-934-8297 E-mail: info@frontiervet.ca Join us on Facebook
Comprehensive Veterinary Services -Digital X-Ray -Dental X-Ray -Ultrasound -Vaccination and Deworming Programs -Selection of Retail and Pet Food Items -Nutritional Advice -Spaying and Neutering -Elective Surgeries
-Hernia Repares -Breeder Packages -Wellness Exams -Vaccine Appointments -Nutritional Consultations -Behaviour Consultations -Diagnostic Appointments -And more
WATCH FOR OUR MONTHLY SPECIALS Our Mission “Preventative veterinary health care works at the population level to prevent diseases that are difficult to treat or cure”. Reducing disease and maintaining optimal pet health requires good nutrition, targeted vaccination protocols, regular deworming schedules, and of course, spaying or neutering pets at the right stage of life. This is the foundation of our practice, and we hope to remove social barriers that currently prevent or restrict owners from acquiring preventative veterinary care for their animals. Our Philosophy Our team philosophy is simple - do the best we can for each animal we work with by: using tailored anesthetic protocols based on breed, species, blood work, and age; including pre-anesthetic blood work to screen for anesthetic risks; adopting American Animal Hospital Association perioperative pain care recommendations; and, providing IV fluids through surgery to reduce risks associated with surgery and anesthesia. Our Values Frontier Veterinary Services strives to provide high quality veterinary care for every patient that comes through our clinic. In addition, the company is strongly committed to educating its clients and the community about Veterinary Medicine in a respectful, professional, courteous, and responsible manner.
www.frontiervet.ca 2
P.A.L. Card... a pet license benefit
pet wellness • march 2014
pet wellness • march 2014
Dog Park access... a pet license benefit
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PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs.
Civic Agencies City Hall 222 Third Ave. N Animal Control Bay 4 - 1622 Ontario Ave.
Vet Clinics Acadia Veterinary Clinic 4-3421 8th St. E All About Cats & Dogs 1004 Taylor St. E
Animal Welfare Agencies
All West Veterinary Clinic 3120 Laurier Dr.
Street Cat Rescue 2750 Faithful Ave., Suite 209B
Arlington Animal Hospital 3010B Arlington Ave.
Saskatoon SPCA Clarence Ave., past Grasswood Rd.
Corman Park Veterinary Services East 140-105th St. E
Pet Stores Critters 90 – 220 Betts Ave. 2-202 Primrose Ave. 3-406 Ludlow St. 112-110 Ruth St. Bay F, 411 Herold Ct. Early’s Farm & Garden Centre 2615 Lorne Ave. 502-51st St. Pet-i-Coat Junction & Barkery 110 Wedge Rd. Pet Planet Cumberland Square Mall Wilson’s Greenhouse & Garden Centre RR#9 Station Main
Cumberland Veterinary Clinic 25-1501 8th St. E Erindale Animal Hospital 4-410 Ludlow St. Forest Grove Veterinary Clinic 8-415 115th St. E Furry Friends Animal Hospital 9-110 Wedge Rd. Lakeview Veterinary Clinic 2-1945 McKercher Dr. Lawson Heights Animal Hospital 120-227 Primrose Dr. Stonebridge Veterinary Hospital 5-215 Stonebridge Blvd. U of S Small Animal Hospital 52 Campus Dr. Westward Animal Clinic 1006-22nd St. W Woodridge Veterinary Clinic 411D Herold Ct.
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P.A.L. Card... a pet license benefit
pet wellness • march 2014
PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs.
Pet Licensing:
Where does the money go? by Jennifer Jacoby-Smith of SP Creative Features Every year, dog and cat owners in Saskatoon buy a pet license, but where exactly do all those fees go? Chelsie Schafer, Open Space Consultant with the City of Saskatoon, says the funds go towards several important programs in the community and some very special perks for pet owners. A portion of the funds go towards supporting Dog Parks in the city. Visit one of the six (and soon, eight) Dog Parks in Saskatoon and you’re enjoying the results of your pet license purchase. These open spaces are a great opportunity to bond with your canine and connect with other dog owners. Funds from pet licenses also go towards the Subsidized Spay and Neuter Program (SSNP). Thanks to a partnership with the City of
Getting your annual pet license in Saskatoon means your dog will be returned to you if they should ever get lost. Pet owners will then receive a My Pet Matters Reward Card, entitling them to some nifty discounts at local vendors. SP file photo
Saskatoon, Saskatoon Academy of Veterinary Practitioners and the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, this program provides discounted veterinary services to have cats or dogs spayed or neutered. The SSNP keeps the numbers of stray dogs and cats in Saskatoon under control. There are also some fun perks when you license your pet. “When you purchase a license you get a My Pet Matters Reward Card,” explains Schafer. “We have various vendors and participating businesses that offer exclusive deals for licensed pet owners.” A My Pet Matters Card entitles pet owners to discounts at a wide variety of local retailers, such as Early’s, Eyes International, German Cultural Centre, Hillcrest Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home, Step Ahead Shoes, Sangsters, J&S Picture Frame, Rainbow Cinemas, Fitness on 25th and more. For more information on the My Pet Matters Card, visit www. mypetmatters.ca. There are many benefits to buying a pet license, but the biggest is keeping your dog or cat safe. “Obviously, the biggest reason we want pets licensed is owner piece of mind. If the animal were to ever get lost it helps to identify your pet and ensures they get a safe ride home,” says Schafer. There are fees associated with not having your animal licensed and in addition to those fees, if your animal was found at large there would be impound fees on top of that, so it’s just a good idea to get your animal licensed. That way you’ll know where they are and they’ll make it home. A P.A.L. (Pet At Large) card is issued during the licensing process and can only be used once within the lifetime CONTINUED ON PAGE 21
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Dog Park access... a pet license benefit
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PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs.
More Dog Parks in the works by Jennifer Jacoby-Smith of SP Creative Features If you’re looking for a place to relax and let Fido roam, the City of Saskatoon operates a number of Dog Parks. These green open spaces permit dogs to be off-leash and offer a chance to interact with other dog owners as well as bond with your four-legged pal. For clarity the City has switched to using the term Dog Parks rather than the former ‘off-leash recreation area’. The switch will make it easier for newcomers and residents alike to find pertinent information on the City’s website: www.saskatoon.ca/go/ dogparks. Creating a great and usable space for pets and their owners is an ongoing priority for the City of Saskatoon, explains Open Space Consultant Chelsie Schafer. “I think with any growing city, programming is important. And as Saskatoon continues to grow, so does the number of pets and pet owners. Our goal is to provide enjoyable spaces where pets and owners can interact while benefiting from being outdoors and living an active lifestyle.” There are currently six Dog Parks in Saskatoon, but the City is set to increase that number in 2014 with the addition of two Dog Parks. The first will be a pilot two-year location in Caswell Hill just south of Mayfair Pool – between 31st and 32nd Street
and Avenues F and G North. “It’s going to be the first neighbourhood Dog Park within the city. We want to evaluate it over those two years and make sure it’s a good fit for everybody involved,” says Schafer. If the park is well used and the feedback is positive from the public, it may be the first of more neighbourhood Dog Parks to come. The second is in the Rosewood neighbourhood within the parameters of Hyde Park. The new Dog Park will occupy a section just off Boychuk Drive. Pet owners are responsible for ensuring their dogs are only off-leash in the designated Dog Park areas and stay within those boundaries. Owners of dogs that are off-leash in non-permitted areas can be ticketed. Pets (on or off-leash) are not allowed in cemeteries, public playgrounds, Kinsmen Park, Kiwanis Memorial Park or the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo. Saskatoon Dog Parks are the perfect spot to enjoy some playful bonding time with your furry friend. It offers a chance to enjoy fresh air and activity. More information about Saskatoon’s Dog Parks can be found at www.saskatoon.ca/go/ animalservices. CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
The City of Saskatoon currently has six Dog Parks, but the number will increase in 2014. Dog Parks are a great opportunity to get active and bond with your pet. SP file photo Getting your annual pet license in Saskatoon means your dog will be returned to you if they should ever get lost. Pet owners will then receive a My Pet Matters Reward Card, entitling them to some nifty discounts at local vendors. SP file photo
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P.A.L. Card... a pet license benefit
pet wellness • march 2014
WCVM VETERINARY MEDICAL CENTRE
Pet Wellness! Pe What’s our goal? To help your pets live long and healthy lives! That’s why our Small Animal Clinic’s Wellness Service now offers Saturday and evening appointments for healthy dogs and cats.
Call us and set up a time that fits your schedule. During your visit, our veterinary team will give your pet a thorough check up and ensure they’re up to date on preventive health measures. Too busy during the week? Ask about our wellness appointments, available on select weekends and evenings throughout the academic year.
Call 306-966-7126 to book an appointment or visit usask.ca/vmc for more details.
We’re here for your pet, in sickness and in health.
Whether your pet is under the weather or in the best of health, we have the veterinary resources to help your family. The WCVM Veterinary Medical Centre offers everything from primary care for healthy pets to specialized clinical services for seriously ill or injured animals. Our hospital is equipped with the latest diagnostic and therapy tools in veterinary medicine, plus our clinical team includes board-certified specialists in a variety of medical disciplines. And as a regional referral centre, we’re here to help veterinarians across Western Canada—so we can work together to help pet owners just like you. iStockphoto.com
Visit usask.ca/vmc to learn how we can help you!
pet wellness • march 2014
Veterinary Medical Centre
Dog Park access... a pet license benefit
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PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6
DOG PARK ETIQUETTE n Saskatoon Dog Parks are restricted to licensed dogs only.
n Don’t take your dog’s favourite toy to the park. They may not want to share.
n Dogs cannot use a Dog Park if they are in heat or have been declared dangerous.
n Take special treats with you, so coming back to you means an extra-special reward.
n Keep your dog within sight at all times.
n If you are concerned about the behavior of a dog or dog owner while at the park you can contact the Saskatoon Animal Control Agency at 306-385-PETS.
n Make sure you have good recall of your dog before going to the Dog Park.
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n If your dog runs away from you, never give chase, otherwise it can become a fun game for them.
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1. AVALON At the end of Broadway Avenue, south of Glasgow Street. 2. BRIARWOOD Along McOrmond Drive, 0.4 KM north of 8th Street. 3. HAMPTON VILLAGE North of 33rd Street, along Junor Avenue, around Hampton Circle, north on Dawson Way, follow grid. Dog park next to airport.
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P.A.L. Card... a pet license benefit
4. SILVERWOOD Adjacent to the north east edges of Silverwood Golf Course, along the riverbank north of the City Limits. 5. SOUTHWEST North of Cedar Villa Road. 6. SUTHERLAND BEACH Accessed via grid road with entry off of Central Avenue, 50 m north of Attridge Drive.
pet wellness • march 2014
W W W. E A R LY S G A R D E N . C O M
FREQUENT BUYER P R O G R A M
ASK IN ST STORE FOR D DETAILS
Two Locations to Serve You Better 2615 LORNE AVE • 306 931-1982 502 51 ST • 306 931-1995
pet wellness • march 2014
Dog Park access... a pet license benefit
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PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs.
SPCA offers variety of companion animals by Darla Read for SP Creative Features When Tricia McAuley began working at the Saskatoon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) seven years ago, she believed the shelter just rescued and rehomed dogs and cats. “Within the first week, we got an iguana,” laughs McAuley, the SPCA’s Fundraising and Donor Relations Coordinator. The Saskatoon SPCA has been providing a safe shelter and finding happy homes for companion animals in Saskatoon and surrounding area since 1968. As a registered charitable organization, the Saskatoon SPCA relies on the generosity of individual and corporate donors to raise necessary funds to provide shelter, care, nutrition and love to an average of 5,000 abandoned, lost, homeless and neglected animals annually. The organization does not receive any government funding. McAuley says it is a common misconception that the shelter only has dogs and cats. She says over the years, numerous types of “exotics” have come through the shelter’s doors: chinchillas, degus (small, ratlike rodents), lizards, turtles, snakes, tarantulas, potbelly pigs and more. At times, there are also gerbils, guinea pigs, rabbit, and birds. McAuley says many times they come in as strays, and that when these animals are livestock, the SPCA looks to farmers to adopt them as companion animals. Last year, 220 exotics were given safe shelter at the SPCA. Of those, 184 were adopted or transferred to another adoption agency, and four were reunited with their owners. Currently the shelter is home to Little Declan, a hedgehog, who will help teach children about
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P.A.L. Card... a pet license benefit
Little Declan, the hedgehog, is one of the ‘exotic’ companion animals at the Saskatoon SPCA. Photos: Jeff Lyons/ StarPhoenix
caring for animals. He was one of four hedgehogs born to one that was adopted and turned out to be pregnant, to everyone’s surprise! Lately the shelter is seeing exotics it would never have seen seven years ago, says McAuley, such as the chinchillas, hedgehogs and bearded dragons. She suspects the increase is likely because people buy exotic pets as impulse purchases, and they think they are “less work” than a dog or a cat – which isn’t the case. “We ask the public to not just research breeds for dogs and cats, but other animals as well,” says McAuley. And, once they do that research, McAuley encourages people to come to the SPCA if an exotic is what they want as a pet. “We don’t come to people’s minds when it comes to exotic animals, and really, people should always turn to their local humane society or a rescue
pet wellness • march 2014
PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs. first” when it comes to adopting any pet, because people can usually find the animal or even specific breed they are looking for. McAuley says overall, 2013 was an encouraging year for animal welfare in Saskatoon. “While thousands of animals still sought safe shelter at the Saskatoon SPCA, the total number of incoming animals was slightly lower than in years previous,” she explains. Furthermore, even with the minor decrease in animals arriving at the shelter, 2013 saw increased education initiatives, successful adoption events, and improved in-shelter programs result in a significant increase of animals adopted, reunited with their owners or transferred to another adoption agency, yielding a five per cent overall increase in the number
of happy homes compared to 2012. McAuley reminds people that animals don’t have a time limit, which is another misconception about the shelter. She says so long as an animal is healthy and friendly, it stays until it is adopted. Last year, 1,320 dogs and 2,156 cats were given safe shelter at the SPCA. Of those, 516 dogs were adopted or transferred to another shelter, and 501 were reunited with their owners. More than 820 cats were adopted or transferred, and 121 were reunited with their owners. If you are looking for a new companion, you can visit the shelter’s website at www.saskatoonspca.com or visit the shelter at 5028 Clarence Avenue South during viewing/ adopting hours. Read is a Saskatoon freelance writer. There’s more to the Saskatoon SPCA than dogs and cats. The shelter also works to find new homes for exotic animals including chinchillas (above), lizards, snakes, turtles, potbelly pigs and more! Photos: Jeff Lyons/StarPhoenix
Pre
518C 44th St. East Saskatoon, SK S7K 0W1 Email: sprint@sasktel.net Phone: 306-955-5470 Web: www.pawsntrain.com pet wellness • march 2014
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Dog Park access... a pet license benefit
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PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs.
Protect your pets from foxtails by Jeannie Armstrong of SP Creative Features Shiloh and Carlton are two rambunctious Goldendoodles who love nothing better than romping in the backyard. The brothers, who are litter mates, also share a fondness for grazing — rivalling cows in their dedication to grass consumption. Unfortunately, when they’ve been out nibbling on the lawn, they have on several occasions ingested foxtail weeds which have blown into our Willowgrove yard from open areas. In the space of two summers, the Goldendoodles have had three surgeries between them to extract the barbed foxtail weeds from their throats, followed by doses of antibiotics to fight infection. With vet bills totaling over $1,000, it’s been an expensive encounter. A grass-like weed resembling barley, foxtail plants seem to be everywhere in Saskatoon – in backyards, along walking trails, in dog parks. What makes the plants dangerous to pets and livestock are the barbed seed heads that can work their way into any part of the animal’s body. Dr. Jordan Woodsworth, clinical associate in wellness with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine’s Small Animal Clinic, says, “Foxtail weeds can cause problems locally where they enter the body, but they can also migrate under the skin and through into deeper tissues.” The barbed seed heads (or awns) can be compared to a porcupine quill, she adds. “It’s sharp on the one end and is kind of shaped like a torpedo. It has these little spikes that come out, which allow the grass awn to migrate forward but it can’t be pulled back easily,” says Dr. Woodsworth. The foxtail barbs carry bacteria,
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P.A.L. Card... a pet license benefit
The harmless looking foxtail weed can cause much harm to pets. The weed’s barbed seed heads can penetrate the animal’s paws or skin, or be ingested and lodge in their throat and internal organs. The barbs carry bacteria, which can cause infection. Photo: Stacy Barnett/Fotolia
adding to the danger of exposure. “The bacteria can cause local infection and even some pretty severe problems,” says Dr. Woodsworth. “The most common sites (of exposure) are the ears, feet, nasal passages, mouth, the back of the throat, the eyes and tear ducts. They can also migrate to strange locations – like the bladder, lungs, kidneys and even on rare occasion, the spinal cord. If dogs eat them, they can coat the inside of the mouth, the stomach, and once they get in there, they can sometimes penetrate the intestinal wall.” While foxtails are often ingested or inhaled, Dr. Woodsworth says the barbed awns can even penetrate through the animal’s skin. “If your dog has a denser coat and likes rolling around on the ground, the
pet wellness • march 2014
PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs. foxtails can work their way inbetween the hairs and penetrate the skin that way.” If your pet has encountered foxtails, what should you do? “The best recommendation that I share with people, and that I use for my own dog, is to always check the pet over thoroughly every time they’ve been outside and remove any of the little seeds from their coat, feet and ears. It’s just like in tick season, where we recommend checking the animal over for ticks very thoroughly after they’ve been outdoors. Similarly, in foxtail season, we recommend checking them over really thoroughly for grass awns that are stuck in their fur,” says Dr. Woodsworth. What symptoms should pet owners watch for that would indicate
If the foxtail awns have travelled internally into the bladder, the bladder may need to be scoped, and then cut open to remove the barbs, she adds. Even after the foxtails have been removed, antibiotics are usually required to eradicate the underlying infection. “Sometimes anti-inflammatories are required as well. Some animals will get lots of foxtail barbs in their paws during the season. Their paws can get really swollen because of all the infection and inflammation; antibiotics and anti-inflammatories are required in those cases,” says Dr. Woodsworth. Foxtails go to seed and start shedding their awns in mid-summer through fall. “If it’s really windy, especially in the new areas of the Backyard encounters with foxtail weeds resulted in surgeries for both Carlton and Shiloh, two Goldendoodle brothers. Photo: Jeannie Armstrong/ StarPhoenix
the need for an appointment with a veterinarian? “If the pet has any painful areas — holding up a paw for example — or if they’re gagging or sneezing frequently — those types of things would be cause for getting them into the vet,” says Dr. Woodsworth. Both of our Goldendoodles have required surgery with sedation to extract foxtail barbs from their tonsils and throats. “If the dog has inhaled foxtails and they’ve lodged in the nasal passages, we will generally require sedation along with specialized equipment, such as an endoscope,” says Dr. Woodsworth.
pet wellness • march 2014
city, the awns will blow all around. They are tons of them everywhere! It’s such a pain! They’ll even lodge in your lawn, shrubs or flowers,” says Dr. Woodsworth. Last fall, we had to resort to putting muzzles on our dogs to prevent them from gobbling up the flying foxtail awns — a precaution that really detracts from their enjoyment of the great outdoors. “If you live in an area where foxtails are a problem, try to keep them in check by mowing them down regularly and checking your pets frequently for potential contact,” says Dr. Woodsworth. “Do your best to keep your animals away from them.”
Dog Park access... a pet license benefit
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PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs.
Large breed dogs can be spayed or neutered as early as nine to 12 months of age. For small breeds of dogs, and for cats, the best time is between six and nine months. Photo: Fotolia
Reproductive control saves lives by Paul Sinkewicz for SP Creative Services One of the biggest responsibilities of pet ownership is safeguarding your animal from needless suffering. Controlling their ability to reproduce may not seem related to suffering, but unless the pet owner is a responsible breeder, overlooking spaying or neutering likely means suffering for an animal somewhere down the road. SCAT Street Cat Rescue in Saskatoon recently responded to a call about a cat found alone and nearly frozen to death. Eight-monthold Angel lost her entire tail and ears, but managed to hold onto her life, thanks to the people who came to her aid just in time. “We get a lot of calls for cats that are in trouble with the cold,” says Shae Fehr, who responded to the call for Angel. “It’s fairly common in Saskatoon in the winter.” Fehr says the undeniable instinct to mate will drive pets to escape their homes. They can then find themselves in in an environment they are not equipped to deal with, and can easily become injured or lost. “If everyone spayed and neutered their pets, over time rescue organizations could largely
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P.A.L. Card... a pet license benefit
manage the relatively small feral cat population through humane trapping,” she said. “But as long as so many don’t spay and neuter, stories like Angel’s will keep happening.” Unplanned litters contribute to overpopulation, which strains the resources of pet rescue groups. Inevitably many offspring are born outside of the home and face a feral existence in Saskatchewan’s severe climate. Dogs and cats that are left to reproduce also face more health risks. Spaying refers to the surgical procedure to remove ovaries and uterus of female animals. It is done under anaesthetic and can be done traditionally, or laparoscopically. In the male, neutering removes the testicles, rendering the animal infertile. The costs of spaying or neutering a pet varies, but is generally in the range of $180 to $205 for dogs, depending the size. Neutering a cat is about $90, while spaying, which is a little more involved, costs about $170. There is also a subsidized program
pet wellness • march 2014
PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs. supported by the City of Saskatoon: SSNP (Subsidized Spay Neuter Program). With SSNP, the City of Saskatoon, the Saskatoon Academy of Veterinary Practitioners and the Western College of Veterinary Medicine work together to offer significantly discounted veterinary services to assist low income pet owners who could not otherwise afford to have their pets spayed or neutered. Other groups who helped develop the program include the Saskatoon SPCA, SCAT Street Cat Rescue and New Hope Dog Rescue. The SSNP program has funding for about 200 surgeries each year, with a maximum of two pets per household. Applicants must provide income tax, and other information to qualify for the subsidy. Once they qualify, the program helps cover the cost of the first visit to the veterinarian, vaccinations, surgery and a post-operative collar, if necessary. “Awareness of spaying and neutering in Saskatoon appears to be generally high,” says Chandra Rink, of Frontier Spay & Neuter Veterinary Services. She says news stories of animal overpopulation in places like Sochi, Russia and even northern Saskatchewan communities show the need for spaying and neutering. “The reality of these situations
truly show the necessity of spay and neuter programs, and we hope that more people will take advantage of the opportunity to be part of the solution in minimizing the frequency of dog culls, and hopefully someday, diminishing them altogether through safe, cost-effective spaying and neutering.” There are health benefits associated with the procedures as well. Spaying and neutering are safe, and reduce or eliminate many forms of cancer, including mammary, uterine, prostate and testicular cancer. They also eliminate the risk of uterine or prostate infection. The procedures also reduce hormonal behaviours like spraying, or marking, territory and reduce wandering, mating inappropriately and aggression in males. Some misconceptions about the procedures include the belief they make pets fat or lazy, or that animals need the chance to mature or ‘settle down’ through breeding. The optimum time to spay or neuter a cat or dog is based on age, breed and physical condition. For large breed dogs, between nine and 12 months of age is usually appropriate. For small breeds of dogs, and for cats, it is between six and nine months. For more information, visit SaskatoonSPCA.com or www. saskatoon.ca/go/ssnp.
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(306) 230-6911
creature-comforts@shaw.ca
pet wellness • march 2014
Bay 6 - 323 Centennial Drive South Martensville, SK Located in Gateway Plaza South of the Adobe Inn.
Dog Park access... a pet license benefit
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PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs.
Pets in the Park returns July 6 by Hilary Klassen of SP Creative Features “It’s all about the smiles,” says Linda Jean Gubbe, administrative coordinator for Pets in the Park. The event tends to bring smiles out, on pets too, not just people, she says. On July 6, pet owners will bring their furry “children” to Kiwanis park to socialize and also to support several worthy causes. Since 2006, Pets in the Park (PIP) has been raising funds to provide care for sick, injured, neo-natal and homeless animals in Saskatoon.
Proceeds are shared by three organizations, Street Cat Rescue (SCAT), New Hope Dog Rescue and the SPCA. Pets in the Park runs from 9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and offers a range of pet-related activities, demonstrations, entertainment and resources for petlovers. “It’s a unique event. There’s nothing else like it that brings pets together with so many other people,” says Gubbe. “It’s not only a fund raiser, it’s a great opportunity to socialize your pet with other pets, and it’s a great opportunity to chat with other like-minded people who support and love animals, and feel the benefit of animals in their lives.” Of course, the event is open to non-pet owners as well. “Everyone
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P.A.L. Card... a pet license benefit
can come and enjoy the day, with or without their furry, feathered or scaled friend, though ALL pets must be on a leash,” says committee member Heather Ryan. “One of the most fun things is the ‘pet watching;’ I love to see the incredibly wide variety of critters that come with their people to the park. Any size, shape or type you can imagine joins in the fun. Come enjoy the Concession, the Silent Auction, and the terrific entertainment provided by talented local musicians.” Demonstrations that have been confirmed for Pets in the Park 2014 include Diamonds in the Ruff Flyball, D&S Dogs, River Runners, and Paws ‘N Train rally obedience. “The demonstrations are really good because people can see what they can actually go out and do with their pets throughout the year, like agility or flyball clubs,” says Gubbe. “This gives them a taste of it. It’s a really good bonding experience between pet and owner.” The trade booth area had about 35 booths last year and is growing every year. Businesses, usually pet-related, and non-profit organizations, will be on site to display their products and services, and serve as a resource. Services can include nail trimming for a donation, micro-chipping, pet portraits, and more. Pets in the Park has not only served as a successful fundraiser, the awareness it creates often leads to pet adoptions. Ryan says the event could not happen without the generous support of their sponsors. “We have both corporate sponsors, like Pizza Hut who have been supportive right from our first event, and individuals who give generously on their own to support this great charity.”
pet wellness • march 2014
PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs.
Canine Rehab Saskatoon helps injured dogs regain function by Darla Read for SP Creative Features Lorna Clarke has a busy home and clothes that are often covered in pet hair. She has three cats and four dogs (three border collie-crosses and a labcross) and all four of them compete in agility competitions. It was Clarke’s love of dogs, the sport of agility, and a previous occupation as a physical therapist (she’s been licensed for more than 30 years) that led her to canine rehabilitation when she retired from a job in the health region two years ago. “It’s very rewarding, because I have a passion for it,” says Clarke. She joined Theresa Ziegler and once she earned her Diploma in Canine Rehab from the Animal Rehab Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association in August 2012, a credential that is held by only one other physical therapist in Saskatchewan, she bought the practice from Ziegler in January 2013. Now she works out of Water Paws and also treats dogs at some agility competitions. In addition, she is cochair of the Animal Rehab Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. While Clarke sees some postsurgical dogs, her niche is sporting dogs, partly because she’s wellknown in those circles since she’s attended many agility competitions herself. Clarke notes that all dogs she sees must have clearance from the veterinarian first. Sporting dogs are prone to injury, she explains, which can range from shoulder or hip injuries often from jumping; neck or the back injuries, knee or foot problems. “Like any athlete, different parts of the body can get strained or injured,” she says.
pet wellness • march 2014
Lorna Clarke conducts a physical therapy assessment at her facility located at Water Paws. Photos: Jeff Lyons/StarPhoenix
When Clarke first sees a dog, she does a head to tail assessment. She will look at how the dog walks, moves, and sits, and talk to its owners about any pain the dog seems to be experiencing, and if it has any change in behaviour such as refusing to play with other dogs. As part of the assessment, she will go over any past history of the dog, which may also include tests such as x-rays. She says it’s really similar to when a human goes for a physical therapy assessment. When Clarke describes treatment for dogs, it also sounds similar to physical therapy treatment for humans. In fact, she recently did a presentation to first-year University of Saskatchewan students. “I think they couldn’t believe it,” she says, noting they commented how it looked “just like when we treat humans.” As part of treatment, Clarke CONTINUED ON PAGE 21
Dog Park access... a pet license benefit
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PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs.
Pet acupuncture can bring relief by Hilary Klassen of SP Creative Features When our pets are struggling with medical issues or health conditions, providing the best possible care for them becomes crucial. Pet acupuncture is a wonderful alternative treatment modality for things like pain and nerve dysfunction. Dr. Leah Frei has been performing pet acupuncture for four years, most recently at the Forest Grove Veterinary Clinic. Frei says the uses of acupuncture on animals are almost limitless. But there are some conditions where pet acupuncture is especially efficacious. “The main thing I like to use it for is pain control. That’s the biggest thing, and in particular, back pain, which it’s very, very helpful for,” says Frei. “The other main thing I use it for is issues with the nerves, so if I have evidence that a nerve is not functioning properly then that would be a good indication for acupuncture as well,” she adds. Frei also does electro acupuncture. “There’s some pretty good evidence that acupuncture and particularly electro acupuncture is good for stimulating nerve regeneration and nerve function.” Frei completed the veterinary medicine program at the U of S, but was trained in a science-based program to do medical acupuncture in Colorado. The other dominant method of doing acupuncture arises from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), an ancient practice that dates back thousands of years. Following medical acupuncture practices, Frei bases her treatment approach and point selection on neuro-anatomy and physiology. “Because it’s a science-based approach, I’m looking more at how
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P.A.L. Card... a pet license benefit
Dr. Leah Frei performs acupuncture on cats and dogs at the Forest Grove Veterinary Clinic. Shown are: Jesse Hansen (left), RVT, Magnum (handsome dog), and Dr. Leah Frei, DVM, CVA. Photos courtesy of Dr. Leah Frei
does this needle affect the local nerves and blood vessels in order to get the treatment response that I’m looking for,” she says. TCM is based on the movement of life force or chi through the body. In her current practice, acupuncture is performed only on cats and dogs, and occasionally on wildlife. Typically a pet and owner come in for a one hour initial appointment where Frei will do a full physical examination of the pet and a full myofascial exam. “Myofascial basically means I palpate over all of the muscles, all of the bones, test the range of motion of the joints and do a neurologic exam,” she says. “I want to have all the information before we proceed with treatment.” She then outlines what to anticipate with acupuncture and the treatment regimen she’s thinking of. Then she
pet wellness • march 2014
PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs. does the first treatment in that hour as well. Frei’s treatment regimen is tailored to each individual patient and based on the pet’s response. Some animals become quite sleepy because the needles stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. But small breed dogs and cats don’t tend to respond that way. Understandably, some try to bite or get away. “With those guys I’ll just start out with a couple of needles and once you stop stimulating the pet, they tend to relax a little more,” says Frei. It helps if the pet can sit in the owner’s lap or, with some cats, on the owner’s shoulder. Frei makes adjustments depending on the response of the animal. “Basically what we do is, however much time they will tolerate and the amount of needles they’ll tolerate, that’s kind of where we start. Let’s say they’re coming in for back pain. As we treat their discomfort, and as their discomfort is improving, they tolerate the needles better.” A treatment regimen is then formulated based on each individual case. Pets that have an acute injury such as a strain or sprain may only need one treatment. “With more chronic conditions you may be talking multiple treatments quite frequently,” says Frei. “In general if we’re just looking at treating discomfort, I will usually do one treatment a week for three weeks, and at that point assess response.” Most pets, if they are going to respond to acupuncture, will respond within those first three weeks. If they’re doing well, the frequency of treatment tapers off to every two to three weeks depending on the patient. “Sometimes three treatments is enough, some might need four to eight weeks, others end up getting a “tune-up” about every six months,” says Frei. For more severe issues like a slipped disc that has caused paralysis in the hind legs for example, the recommendation would be surgical
pet wellness • march 2014
intervention. “But that’s not always financially possible for a lot of clients. So acupuncture is definitely a potential treatment and I’ve had very good success with it,” says Frei. “I would treat those patients every day or every second day until I start to see an improvement.” Frei says many practitioners see acupuncture as a cure-all and that you can treat everything with it. “To a certain extent you can. But I am definitely a big believer in using the western therapies that are available to us and using acupuncture as adjunctive therapy.” The western medical model is her primary method of treatment. “If they have pain I will be using multi-modal therapy, meaning acupuncture, plus pain medication, maybe some heat, maybe some massage and certain exercises. Because really, it’s better to target that pain from a whole bunch of different ways than just to do one way,” she says.
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Dog Park access... a pet license benefit
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PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs.
Pet insurance makes health care more affordable by Jessica Mees for SP Creative Features For many, a pet is a part of their family and the thought of losing their furry companion is hard to bear. Just as in human children, pet illnesses and accidents are normally beyond their owners control. Pet insurance, offered by most insurance companies, makes health care benefits for your pet more affordable.
Dr. Colleen Skavinsky, Chief Veterinary Officer with Petsecure Insurance, has been a practicing veterinarian for over 20 years. “I have seen all the sophisticated changes that have come about with veterinary medicine over the years. Pet owners are becoming more sophisticated in the types of treatment they want as well. People are now asking for the same kind of medical interventions and surgical interventions for their pets that we see with people because for a lot of us they’re our fuzzy kids. The problem is that those treatments do come at a cost and some of the technologies cost over $100,000 for one machine. Someone has to pay for that and for the caliber of staff that we have in our animal hospitals. Unfortunately that adds up and has
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P.A.L. Card... a pet license benefit
to be passed on to the pet owner,” says Dr. Skavinsky. When shopping for pet insurance, remember that there are many different levels and types of coverage. Do your research before signing any contracts. Look for a policy that will cover veterinary costs for both accidents and illness. In an emergency, your pet may also require sophisticated diagnostic tests, medications and hospitalization. The cost of x-rays, MRIs, CT scans and prescriptions can add up quickly and overwhelm a pet owner. “What pet insurance does is take the high-priced bills and make them more reasonable,” says Dr. Skavinsky. Pet owners can budget for an affordable monthly premium, instead of facing unexpected charges that can often total thousands of dollars. Many factors can influence the level of coverage a pet owner selects, including the breed of the pet, the owner’s commitment to veterinary care and the financial bottom line. Pet insurance may not be for everyone. Dr. Skavinsky says the decision to get pet insurance is personal and should be discussed with your veterinarian. “I am a huge advocate on having a regular relationship with your veterinarian. You should feel comfortable asking your veterinarian if you really need all these tests that are being offered or is the outcome of treatment after paying all that extra money really just going to be the same. It has to be a mindful decision.” Most pet insurance websites also have free quotes available directly on their webpages. For more information on Canada’s largest and oldest pet insurance provider, Petsecure, visit www.petsecure.com.
pet wellness • march 2014
PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs.
LICENSING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 of the pet. When a pet has been rescued, the owner can present this one-use card to waive the fine. An online option is new for 2014. With the easy click of a mouse, pet owners can buy or renew pet licenses online by going to the City of Saskatoon website, at www. saskatoon.ca/go/petsonline . “It’s very convenient, but there are still the in-person locations if
someone doesn’t have access to a computer,” Schafer adds. Pet licenses can also be purchased at City Hall, the Saskatoon Animal Control Agency and the Saskatoon SPCA. Some veterinary clinics and pet supply stores will also issue pet licenses. For a complete listing of vendors, visit the City of Saskatoon website at www.saskatoon.ca/go/ petlicense.
REHAB CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 does soft tissue techniques such as myofascial release; joint mobilizations, range of motion; acupuncture; use of a low-power laser; and use of a muscle stimulator. She also creates an exercise therapy program that she sends home with the owners. Because owners want their dogs to be healthy so they can compete again or even just be pain-free, Clarke says they are very motivated to follow an exercise program. The best feeling for Clarke is when she sees how far a dog can come. She recently treated a border collie that had a stroke in its spinal cord, which she says was devastating but there was a good prognosis. “It’s just so rewarding to see the dog improve.”
pet wellness • march 2014
Because canine rehab is a relatively new field, Clarke says there isn’t a lot of literature on it. She says that was the case many years ago for human physical therapy as well, but now there is a huge body of research and evidence for humans. “We’re not there yet on the dog side, so we’re left looking at human practice and applying it to dogs,” she says. Additionally, years ago, she says physicians and patients in general had to be sold on the benefits of physical therapy, and she says similar conversations take place today regarding dogs. “Vets don’t just tell (owners) to put their dog in a crate for six weeks – they recommend they book them for rehab.”
Dog Park access... a pet license benefit
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PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs.
Friendships help ease pain of pet loss by Paul Sinkewicz for SP Creative Features Colleen and Wendy sit close together, each with a very special photo in front of them. For Colleen, it is a carefully framed portrait of a mischievous cat. For Wendy, it is an outdoor shot of a gorgeous spaniel with a beatific demeanour. Both animals recently passed away, leaving the women with a hole in their hearts. Around the room are other animal lovers — men, women, young, old — each at a different stage in their grieving process. They have come together to talk about their departed companions and get each other through the tough times. Donna Jean Gerrier is the facilitator of the Saskatoon Pet Loss Support group that meets at the W.A. Edwards Family Centre on Fourth Avenue North twice a month. The group is sponsored by Family Pet Cremation Services. “We have all been through that heart-breaking experience of having to lose a pet,” says Gerrier. “When people come to the group, they are very heartbroken. It helps to have someone to talk to about it.” Gerrier says friends and family members often don’t realize how painful the loss of a companion animal can be. She is trying to help overcome the stigma that mourning a pet is something to hide. She often says that to come to the group in the first place is a step of courage and tries to make newcomers feel safe and welcome. The coffee and cookies help, but it is the support and love felt in the room that do the healing. “We’ve been there, and this is where you can pour your heart out and your soul out. There’s no
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P.A.L. Card... a pet license benefit
judgement.” Friendships have developed from the group and there are members who have been coming for 10 years. There are many stages of grief involved. Once the pain of the loss has receded, there is sometimes guilt about getting another pet. It is also very common to secondguess the decision to have an animal euthanized, says Gerrier. You wonder if there was more that could have been done, should have been done. “I say putting your pet to peace,” she says. “Often that is what it is. But it doesn’t leave us in peace. We are left with having made that decision for the pet.” The group has a wonderful resource in a married couple of retired veterinarians. They help explain medical conditions, treatments and offer insight into suffering and likely outcomes. Gerrier spent her professional career as a speech pathologist, and is grateful for the skills it gave her to connect with people. She says it is an honour to facilitate the group. “They have grief groups for
pet wellness • march 2014
PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs. Donna Jean Gerrier leads the Saskatoon Pet Loss Support Group, which meets twice a month at the W.A. Edwards Family Centre. Members of the group help each other to cope with their loss of a beloved pet. Photo: Paul Sinkewicz
people, but a grief group for an animal is also very important,” says Gerrier. “An animal can touch you in a place where no human being can reach. They get under your soul.” The group was started about 10 years ago, and Gerrier was invited to facilitate the about three years ago. It meets from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. the first and third Sunday of every month. “It’s a brutal experience to lose a pet. You will know that if you have been through it.”
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She still loves to be around other dogs, especially the two owned by her close friend. “But I go up to the portrait of my dog in my hallway and say: ‘Don’t you worry, you’re still my No. 1.’ You can those kinds of stories in there and people don’t judge you.” Saskatoon Pet Loss Support is on Facebook and can also be reached at 306-343-5322. Sinkewicz is a Saskatoon freelance writer.
Pet Loss Support The death of a pet can be one of the most devastating experiences an individual or family has to face. If you are having difficulty coping with the loss of a beloved pet or are dealing with an end of life decision, you are invited to gather with other animal lovers, like yourself, in a safe, supportive and informal environment to share your experiences, feelings, stories and pictures.
The Pet Loss Support Group
meets the first & third Sunday of every month at 2pm at the WA Edwards Family Centre 333 4th Avenue North. (There’s no cost to participate and no obligation to attend on a regular basis). For more information or to receive bereavement resource material, we invite you to call Family Pet - 306-343-5322
www.mutthutt.ca
pet wellness • march 2014
Dog Park access... a pet license benefit
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PET LICENSING OFFERS MANY BENEFITS!
Pet licensing not only helps identify your pet, but also helps to fund Dog Parks and subsidized spay and neuter programs.
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P.A.L. Card... a pet license benefit