volume 10, issue 6
animal advocate janet mckim
magazine
TM
october/november 2014
acupuncture for canines recovering damages to your dog in sc ask the trainer: kids and dogs
BELLA's BOY
Publisher Leah England (843) 478-0266 leah@lowcountrydog.com
contents
Advertising Information (843) 284-3094 Guest Writer Kelly Rae Smith Photographer Leigh Webber Laura Olsen Accounting Carrie Clark Financial Services (843) 367-9969 carriecl@comcast.net Lowcountry Dog Magazine PO Box 22 Mt. Pleasant, SC 29465 Web: lowcountrydog.com Twitter: www.twitter.com/leahengland Facebook: facebook.com/lowcountrydog
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october/november 2014 animal advocate janet mckim 4 empty collar 8 acupuncture in canines 10 This magazine is printed on 100% recycled paper.
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bella's boy 14 Lowcountry Dog’s mission is to be the leading local resource for dog owners regarding regional events, health and wellness information, trends, style and lifestyle choices. We also strive to be a mouthpiece to the public for various dog related non-profits and promote pet adoption and other responsible pet care practices. Dog lovers can pick up the bimonthly magazine for free at most area veterinarians and pet stores throughout the lowcountry, as well as numerous restaurants, coffee bars and retailers. A full distribution list is posted to the magazine’s web site, lowcountrydog.com. Subscriptions are also available. Please call 843-478-0266 for more information.
calendar of events 21 health & wellness 20 Physical Rehabilitation for Hip Dysplasia and Osteoarthritis training 22 Happy Kids, Happy Dogs
The entire contents of this magazine are copyrighted by Lowcountry Dog Magazine with all rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue is expressly forbidden without permission of the publisher. Lowcountry Dog Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any product, service, or vendor mentioned or pictured in this magazine in editorial or advertising space. Views expressed by authors or advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher.
Cover photo and Table of Contents photos by Laura Olsen Imagery.
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Dr. McKim at home with her dog, Rosie, and cat, Rocky.
Animal Advocate
TEXT BY KELLY RAE SMITH
PHOTOS BY LAURA OLSEN
The fourth nominee for Lowcountry Dog’s Animal Advocate is Janet McKim, a woman who is fulfilling her lifelong dream as a shelter veterinarian at Charleston Animal Society. “I knew I wanted to be a vet since I was about four, before I even knew what the word was,” she says. “I think vets in general do good, but we know here [at shelters] we are helping the most helpless. I mean, every day I go home and feel like I’ve done good, and in Charleston the numbers are astounding. They have totally transformed from a very high-kill shelter four years ago to a no-kill shelter, which is unheard of in the South — astounding. When I moved here, 73 percent of the animals who went in to public shelter died. Nine out of ten kittens. Now, there’s a 6 percent euthanasia rate. They really worked hard to mobilize that, and I’m very proud to be a part of that. I really feel like I’m saving lives.” When McKim first began her studies, Jennifer and Salty. 4 Lowcountrydog
it was in the environmental field. Intimidated by the amount of schooling required, she’d initially shied away from vet school. However, McKim quickly realized that any path she chose would be hard work. “I thought, ‘If I’m going to put all this effort into it, I might as well go for it,’” she says. So she began applying for schools that could eventually bring her the most happiness, and while doing so she had an interesting discovery. “I got the most extraordinary letters back,” McKim tells us. “I figured, I’m in New Jersey and New York is next door — I should have a shot there. So I send a letter to Cornell, and they write me back a letter that says, ‘Thanks for your interest. As a woman, you should know this is a very strenuous field and you may want to consider an alternative supportive career such as receptionist.’ This was 1972. I mean, this was not the dark ages. I remember almost falling off my chair. Cornell is sending me these letters?”
Janet McKim
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But as it turned out, McKim’s class is when change began to happen. “Now we’ve taken over the profession,” she says. “Now it’s 70 percent women.” So who finally accepted this female applicant? “Ohio State — absolutely changed my life. I still think of it and cry. I was just so overwhelmed that I made it,” she says. Not only did she get her dream career, but McKim also picked up her husband, Jack. “So it’s perfect,” she says. “He was a classmate. We’ve almost worked our entire careers together, which is pretty fabulous.” The two moved to Charleston following their son and daughter’s enrollment at the College of Charleston. They sold the general practice they owned in Virginia, headed South, and never looked back. Even though the kids are gone, they’ve still got a full house. “I have at the moment five official cats, a community cat, a small dog, and four medical fosters. As my husband said, 11 animals are living in our house right now.” Jack’s also a vet and works closely with her at the CAS, performing orthopedics and specialty surgeries on certain days. When Janet comes across an animal with a special need, they put him or her on the “Jack track.” As for Janet, her days begin at 8 a.m. with four to five hours of surgery, from dental to standard spaying and neutering. Her afternoons are spent visiting animals in the shelter who are sick so as to determine the best way to help them. Her favorite little guys? “I like both ends of the spectrum, she says. “I like the kittens, and I love the geriatrics — a little of both arenas.” Other days are spent as relief in other local clinics, and when Janet’s not saving lives, she’s fighting for better legislation and representation for shelter vets. Janet is also one of a handful of vets who has received a master’s degree in shelter medicine. Another advantage Janet has is her certification in veterinary acupuncture and traditional Chinese herbal medicine through the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society. “That’s one of the reasons I love 6
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this field — the places you can go,” she says. “We did general practice, and then I got interested in alternative medicine. But I’m still a scientist, so I went toward acupuncture, because they have the most science behind it and it really is just fascinating. And it really fit in well with the geriatrics, because you get older dogs where Western medicine isn’t always its friend, but you can do some acupuncture and throw in some herbs and make the dog comfortable.” McKim tells us that acupuncture actually came into the United States through veterinary acupuncture. The general consensus was that it was voodoo, so the first testing was done at Purdue University on horses. But the last time she personally performed alternative medicine on an animal, it was a poor feline friend. “We had a cat that was hit by a car, and it was a friend’s of the organization,” McKim says. “The cat ruptured its diaphragm. All abdominal contents worked their way up, so it was hard to breathe. So we repaired that, but he also had radial nerve paralysis. He snapped nerves in his armpit, and his arm went limp. We did three or four acupunctures, and got his leg back. He was a young cat with acute trauma, which is perfect for acupuncture. You’ve got a lot of energy there, so you just have to get it to go where it wants.” After 34 years of devoting her energy to saving the lives and limbs of countless animals, McKim still starts every day with a smile on her face. “When I wanted to go to vet school I wanted it so bad I
could taste it,” she says. “And I still wake up in the morning, and go, ‘I am so damn lucky.’ How many people can say that about their careers?”
This is the fourth article in our series on Animal Advocates of the Lowcountry. After all nominees are featured, we will open online voting and one winner of the Animal Advocate of the Year will be recognized for their outstanding work.
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Empty Collar
by Penny Jones, Rinks Mountain Danes In the bottom of my closet is an old dust covered box. Of all my life's treasures, it is perhaps the most precious to me. To others, it contains nothing more than some old, frayed dog collars that should have been cast aside long ago. For me, it holds cherish memories of dear friends who shared my life. The colors are reminders of giving love and being loved unconditionally and return, experiencing the greatest happiness and the ultimate sorrow. I have learned many things about my dogs and from them, but I have never learned what to do without him to call her when my beloved friend crosses over the bridge and leaves me standing with nothing but that collar, some precious memories, and a broken heart. I could never simply throw the collar away as that would have been disrespectful of my friend. Nor could I bury it with the dog because for me, death is a setting free of the spirit and the collar is a symbol of control. Left with no options, I put each collar and that old box. I am pleased now that I saved these reminders of the past, for I have something real to hold onto along with my precious memories. On occasion, I dust off the lid and view the contents. The sight of each collar brings me many mixed emotions. I feel the pains of love and loss, joy and
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sorrow. There are four small collars in the box that belong to my Pekingeses many years ago. When I was happy they danced in joyous circles around my feet. When I was sad, they washed away my tears. They slept at my side almost every night of their entire lives. I can still feel the warmth of their little bodies next to mine. But time took it's toll, as it always does, and my little friends journeyed on without me. The very small collar with the little bell belong to my dear friend, Mary Poodle. When I married for the second time, I was told that my maid of honor should be my best friend. So I placed a wreath of flowers and a bit of lace around Mary's neck and off we went to get married. Each night of her life, before she went to sleep, she gave me a little wet kiss on the cheek. I think she did that to show me she loved me and to tuck me in. Now I am left alone with cherished memories, a collar, and a little bell that no longer makes a joyous sound. There are large red colors in the box. Some of them are old and frayed and some show very little wear. They belong to my beloved Great Danes. The first was a rescue Great Dane we called Lance. He had been in and out of the shelter more times than the staff could recall. He was old and bony and not very well cared for when he became a member of our family
early one summer. By fall, he was gone. His advanced age and the rigors of hard life claimed him. But those four months he spent with us were some of the best I've known as he showered us with affection and gratitude. I believe Lance felt the same. Bodacious Von Meistersinger was a pup when we got him, so we were able to watch him grow into a clumsy, funloving fellow who filled our lives of joy and laughter. Millie came to us from a local "breeder" who was getting a divorce. When we first saw her she was horribly skinny and starved for affection. With time she began to blossom. Old "Silly Millie" loved nothing more than to lay with her head on my knee as I sang songs to her off key. The last color in the box belongs to my beloved Smokey Blue, who died following surgery at 16 months. The only way that I can reconcile his death is to believe that God needed a good dog by His side and so he chose my Blue. As I close the lid on the box, my mixed breed Sam comes charging into the room looking for me. Old Rinks barks, and the poodles are off and running. Joy fills my heart as I look at them, for I know that my life will always be lived in the company of dogs. I wouldn't have it any other way.
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Acupuncture in Canines Holly Mims DVM, Dip. ACVIM, cVMA Acupuncture is the art of placing needles in various parts of the body to elicit a response. Many of us are familiar with this process and have personal experience with acupuncture, but often I find people are not aware that it can be performed on animals. The goals in animals are the same as with humans: to improve conditions that are not fully alleviated by Western medicine, to improve general wellness through preventative medicine, and to speed healing and manage pain post operatively. Being a specialist in internal medicine, I see pets with chronic diseases that are often severe. These conditions require multiple medications to manage and can have poor outcomes. By the time pets and owners come to me, finances and hope are often on the decline. I chose to pursue advanced training in acupuncture in the hope that I would be able to help more pets and their people. Acupuncture can be used at anytime, but especially when all other options are exhausted or when the side effects of Western medicine are significant. So, how does it work? There are several thoughts as to the mechanism of action. A more traditional Chinese thought involves the 5 phases (wood, fire, earth, metal and water) and belief that acupuncture manipulates Chi (energy). Research and science tell us that we are stimulating areas of the central nervous system, vasculature, and the immune system to elicit a response. Where are the needles inserted? The needle placement is key in triggering the response. Typical locations include areas where nerves are exiting the muscle and near blood vessels. These points are named based on the World Health Organization alphanumeric system. There are 6 paired channels (Lung, Liver, Stomach, Spleen, Heart, Small Intestine, Bladder, Kidney, Pericardium, Triple Heater, Gallbladder, and Large Intestine) and two singular channels (Conception Vessel and Governor Vessel). The points are numbered based on their location along the channel. A “trigger point” is a specific site of pain and tension that can also be needled. What happens when the needle is inserted? The needle causes release of chemical messengers in the body that stimulates 10
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response. At the site of needle insertion, blood vessels dilate, the immune system. Acupuncture causes the release of natural opioids that are made within the body to decrease pain. Does it hurt? Acupuncture is performed with very small needles. As a result, most animals don’t even notice. Humans describe the sensation as a warm, tingling feeling. The needles are sterile and are not reused. It is rare that there is any bleeding associated with acupuncture. Pets often relax as the treatment progresses and some even fall asleep. What are the side effects and risks? Side effects are rare, but it is important for the acupuncturist to be aware of local anatomy. With animals, the risk of ingestion of a needle is always a concern and patients should not be left unattended, nor should needles be placed where they can easily be licked out. Care is taken any time when needling around the eye, chest, abdomen, and large vessels. What conditions can be helped with acupuncture? There are many conditions that can be treated with acupuncture and we are learning more every day. For the muscular and skeletal systems: arthritis, disk disease, hip dysplasia, nerve injuries (after trauma), and back pain For skin disease: wounds, lick granulomas, allergies For the stomach and intestinal systems: diarrhea, vomiting, inflammatory bowel disease, megaesophagus, inappetence For the urinary tract: lower urinary tract inflammation, voiding dysfunction For the respiratory system: asthma, chronic upper respiratory infections, nasal bleeding, coughing For the eyes/ears: KCS (dry eye), ulcers, pain, ear inflammation/ infection For the heart: arrhythmias, ascites (fluid retention) For the immune system: immune mediated disease, fever, bone marrow disorders For the reproductive system: irregular cycles and bleeding For the central nervous system: seizures, vertigo For internal organ dysfunction: liver disease, chronic kidney disease, endocrine disease For patients with cancer: to improve side effects of
chemotherapy and relieve pain Acupuncture can also be used to treat anxiety. What happens at the first acupuncture appointment? A good physical and neurologic examination along with a detailed history is the starting point. Additional testing might be required if a yet undiagnosed underlying disease is suspected. Based on the exams, history,+/any additional testing, a treatment protocol tailored to your pet is created. The first treatment is often performed at the initial visit. Most acupuncturists will allow you to stay with your pet during treatment although this is not required. How often does it need to be performed? A typical treatment protocol would be to start with three treatments at an interval appropriate for the case. This might be daily, every other day, or less frequently. The effects of acupuncture are cumulative, so several treatments are often necessary. For those who are skeptical, I believe there is nothing to lose. There is no placebo effect in animals meaning that they either will improve in response to treatment or they won’t. Treatments do not have to be
continued if owners feel that they are not seeing the desired response. It is important to remember that acupuncture is just another tool in your veterinarian’s tool box and an accurate diagnosis of the underlying problem being treated is essential to success. I use acupuncture in addition to Western medicine to treat disease and to obtain the best possible outcomes. How to find a certified veterinary acupuncturist? A veterinary acupuncturist must be licensed veterinarian who has
completed an extensive training course and maintains knowledge through continuing education. The training should have been performed through one of the major foundation providers (Medical Acupuncture for Veterinarians, International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, or Chi Institute). For a listing of certified veterinary acupuncturists, please contact the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture or visit online at aava.org.
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Recovering Damages to Your Dog in South Carolina Kelsey Gilmore-Futeral, Esq. Oftentimes, dog owners may be concerned about any liability for injuries their dogs may cause to another person or to property. However, a legal topic of discussion trending across the nation is the value of pets that are injured or killed as a result of another’s person’s wrongful conduct. As a dog owner myself, my pets are invaluable and are worth far more to me than just a dollar figure. They are my companions and they bring joy into my life that can’t be easily measured. However, the value that we place on our furry friends and the value the law places on them are two very different things. Traditionally, courts considered animals to be personal property such as your TV or your car. Customarily, animals had value to their owners because they were raised for consumption, work, or fur. These animals had a “market price” value normally associated with a price per pound. Then, in a 1899 larceny case, a South Carolina court recognized for the first time that a dog had value other than “market value” because the dog provided amusement and service to the owner. Unfortunately, the law in South Carolina hasn’t progressed much since 1899. For example, in 1937, an owner brought a lawsuit to recover damages for her ten breeding dogs that had been poisoned to death. The owner sought $50 per dog an additional $2,500 for her emotional damage and for the pain and suffering the dogs endured. However, the court awarded the dog owner $500 replacement value of the dogs. In other words, the court only recognized these dogs as personal property. 12
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Photo by Tambako The Jaguar Flickr Creative Commons
Presently, South Carolina dog owners can bring at least five types of legal actions for harm to a dog: (1) negligence; (2) veterinary malpractice; (3) breach of contract; (4) conversion (like theft but civil in nature); and (5) trespass to chattel (interfered with another person's lawful possession of property). For these legal actions, a South Carolina court may award damages that include veterinary bills, lost profits (for breeding or showing), increased costs of care (long-term medication), physical therapy bills, or replacement value (how much the owner paid for him/ her). In South Carolina, a dog owners’ biggest challenge when filing a suit is the low value of their damages which is often just the replacement cost of their dog. For example, my dogs are all rescues. Despite the fact that my dogs are irreplaceable to me, each of them would be worth only a few dollars as far as the law is concerned. Other dogs have more value such as a breeding dog for which the owner may lose income. If the dog is a service or a therapy dog, the owner may recover their financial investment in training these dogs. Likewise, an owner may seek damages for the investment in training a dog who competes in agility, obedience, or has earned AKC titles. Novel arguments are making their way across the country for the recovery of damages for the emotional value of pets. There is a slow legal trend from state to state where courts are allowing owners to recover damages for emotional harm and to access punitive damages for intentional harm caused to a pet. Here in
South Carolina, our courts haven’t yet decided whether an owner may make a claim for the owner’s emotional suffering. Even if South Carolina does allow for this type of legal claim, the law requires that intentional conduct and resulting injury must occur in the claimant’s presence. That means that there would be no claim for emotional harm if the owner wasn’t present such as when their dogs are injured while at the groomer, while at a doggie day care, or while under a veterinarian’s care. In sum, under the current laws in South Carolina, if a dog is injured or killed, the most an owner will recover for the dog are veterinary bills incurred to treat the dog’s injuries and the dog’s replacement value. South Carolina law doesn’t yet recognize claims for either the dog’s or the owner’s suffering. Although other states have started to recognize that dogs mean much more to their owners than property such as TV’s or a lawn mower, South Carolina hasn’t shown any recent signs of expanding an owner’s legal claims for harm to our furry friends.
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BELLA's BOY “A dog will teach you unconditional love. If you can have that in your life, things won’t be too bad.” –Robert Wagner
“My little dog- a heartbeat at my feet.” –Edith Wharton PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEIGH WEBBER
“In order to really enjoy a dog, one doesn’t merely try to train him to be semi-human. The point of it is to open oneself to the possibility of becoming partly dog.” –Edward Hoagland
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“Tell me to what you pay attention and I will tell you who you are.” –Jose Ortega y Gasset
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“I have just three things to teach: simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures. –Lao Tzu
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happy hounds
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georgia mojo & chloe gus Upload photos of your happy hound at www.lowcountrydog.com/share/photo All breeds and mixed breeds accepted.
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upcoming events recurring yappy hours and pups, yups and food trucks by charleston county park and recreation commission at charleston county parks. Pick up man’s best friend after work and join the fun at events held early fall especially for dog owners! Pups, Yups and Food Trucks offers on-site food trucks and live music in the meadow at Palmetto Islands County Park in Mount Pleasant, just adjacent to the dog park. Yappy Hour features live music and beverages for sale, directly in the offleash dog park at James Island County Park. Both events are free with general park admission ($1 per person or free with Charleston County Parks’ Gold Pass)! Beverages and food are available for an additional fee. Outside alcohol and coolers are prohibited. Event Dates: Yappy Hour October 16th 4-8pm, and Pups, Yups and Food Trucks October 23rd 5-sunset. Visit www. charlestoncountyparks.com for more info.
special events october 26th 2:00pm-6:30pm running with the hounds is a canicross, trail run and walking event on the historic grounds of the Middleton Place Equestrian Trails. 5K timed trail run for competitive runners. 5K timed trail run for dogs & their human companions. 5K fun run for those who want to take in the sights. 5K trail walk for those with & without dogs. Huck Finn Village - Activities for parents, kids & dogs! Running with the Hounds combines two rare opportunities! Participants can enjoy the 6,000 acre
fox hunting and equestrian trails at Middleton Place rarely open to the public and participate in the popular European sport known as canicross (running with your dog in a tandem harness). Walkers can also participate with or without their dogs. Learn more and register at www. runningwiththehounds.com.
october 18th 1:00pm-5:00pm dogtoberfest at freshfields village. The temperature is dropping, the leaves are changing and fall is in the air. What better way to spend a day than sipping delicious wine, drinking craft beer, eating great food and helping out a worthy cause? Dogtoberfest brings together pet rescue organizations from around the Lowcountry. The free event includes: Meet-and-greets with local rescue groups (on-site adoptions are not permitted due to screening requirements), Wine tasting ($15 per ticket, includes a commemorative wine glass), Local craft beer from Frothy Beard Brewery, Delicious food trucks, Live entertainment On-site vendors, Pet costume contest, Blessing of the animals, Exciting prizes and giveaways, and more! Proceeds from the event benefit participating pet rescue organizations.
october 19th 11am - 4:00 pm bark in the park! oktoberfest celebration. What better way to celebrate Oktoberfest than with man’s best friend? This costume-friendly event – for both people and their pets – will offer exhibits, demonstrations, experts, entertainment and much more. Plus, enjoy an Oktoberfest atmosphere with live Oompah music, tasty German dishes, and of course
plenty of beer. Food and beverage vendors will be on site in the park. Bark in the Park! Oktoberfest will run from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Oct. 19. Performing live in the park will be The Gootman Sauerkraut Band. Bark in the Park! Oktoberfest will also feature pet contests, including a pet costume competition, and Swift Paws lure chasing, which allows dogs the opportunity to run on a lure race course. Dog-related vendors as well as several non-profit rescue groups will also be on site throughout the event, so pet owners are encouraged to stop by to support these great organizations. Admission to Bark in the Park! Oktoberfest is $8 per dog. Humans and Gold Pass Holders are free of charge. This event is brought to you by CocaCola, Bota Box Wines, Crews Subaru and your Charleston County Parks.
november 8th 9:30am to 3:30pm introductory therapy dog workshop. Workshop presenters will cover what is required to become a therapy team, give tips on how to interact with the people you visit, teach you with handling skills helpful in pet therapy, discuss what venues might be best for you and your dog, and conduct fun role playing exercises. Seating is limited. Advance registration and proof of rabies vaccination is required. Contact Barbara at fluffydogtherapy@ comcast.net for registration packet. Registration fee is $35.00 with your dog, $15.00 without a dog. Registration closes November 6. Questions? Comments? Call 843-478-0266. Want to submit event information? Visit www.lowcountrydog.com and click on Add an Event. We will do our best to include your event as space allows. Our online calendar lists all events in full. Lowcountrydog 19
Physical Rehabilitation for Hip Dysplasia and Osteoarthritis By Jennifer Au, DVM, DACVS, CCRT Hip dysplasia, and the osteoarthritis that comes with it, can be a potentially devastating disease for dogs. The good news is 70% of dogs with hip dysplasia do not need surgery if they are appropriately managed medically or conservatively. This is a combination of weight control, as-needed use of NSAIDs (under your veterinarian’s supervision), omega 3 fatty acids, joint supplements and low-impact activities such as walking and swimming. In addition, physical rehabilitation is a very useful and effective tool in the management of hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis as well as weight loss. Veterinary physical rehabilitation is decades, even centuries, behind human physical therapy. Humans have known the benefit of physical therapy since Hippocrates first used hydrotherapy (water therapy) to treat rheumatism and paralysis in 460 B.C. The importance of physical therapy quickly became realized during World War I to help wounded soldiers recover and return to battle. At that point in time physical therapists were called reconstruction aides. Physical therapists were again called to action during the poliomyelitis (polio) epidemic of the early 1900’s. During this time period, rapid advancements were made in the field of physical therapy. Veterinary rehabilitation has greatly benefited from the advancements of human physical therapy. Typically advancements in human medicine come initially from animal research. This is one of the unique areas in veterinary medicine where the humans have been the research models for veterinarians and veterinary rehabilitation. Collaboration with the human physical therapists has been an 20
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essential component. Why do we use the term physical rehabilitation or rehab when talking about animals instead of physical therapy or PT? Human physical therapists or PTs have undergone years of schooling along with passing licensing exams to earn the title of Physical Therapist. It is actually a legally protected term in all 50 states just as Doctor of Veterinary Medicine or DVM (VMD if your veterinarian graduated from the University of Pennsylvania; they prefer the Latin derivation) is legally protected. On the veterinary side, veterinarians, veterinary technicians (similar to human nurses) and human physical therapists and physical therapist assistants can become certified in canine (or equine) physical rehabilitation by completing the required course work, hands-on training, case write-ups, externships with certified practitioners and passing a qualifying exam. Currently only the Canine Rehabilitation Institute (www.caninerehabinstitute.com) and the University of Tennessee (www. canineequinerehab.com) provide the necessary training and certification. Graduates earn the title of Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT), Assistant (CCRA) or Practitioner (CCRP) depending on the program attended. Both groups have websites that allow you to find a certified therapist in your area. Physical rehabilitation enlists a large number of therapy options to treat osteoarthritis secondary to hip dysplasia or any other cause. Some of the therapy options used for an osteoarthritic hip or other joint include thermal therapies, passive or active exercise, laser therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, electrical
stimulation (e-stim or TENS), land treadmill and hydrotherapy to name a few. Thermal therapies are simply the application of heat or cold to the joint. Cryotherapy or cold therapy is used in acute flare-ups of OA to reduce swelling and inflammation. In addition, cold therapy helps with pain control by slowing nerve conduction. Anyone that spent anytime up north in the winter will understand this well. Think of cold, wet mittens and what happens to your fingers. They get numb because the cold is slowing the nerve conduction or nerve signals. Heat therapy is used for pain relief, to decrease muscle spasms, increase circulation, and loosen stiff or tight joints and muscles in more chronic OA joints. Passive exercises, including range-ofmotion exercises, stretching and massage, help loosen stiff joints and improve movement. Typically the rehab therapist is performing the passive exercises while the patient relaxes and ‘enjoys the ride’. Active exercises, however, require the patient to do the work and participate in their own rehab. Active exercises use a number of tools such as physioballs (think yoga ball), wobble/balance boards, cavaletti rails (elevated poles), obstacle courses, stairs, ramps, etc to improve range-of-motion in osteoarthritic joints and strengthen the supporting muscles of the limb. Therapeutic lasers, also termed cold lasers, are used to reduce pain and inflammation while aiding in tissue repair and healing. Lasers emit radiation in the form of photons. The photons enter the skin and tissues, providing energy for cells in the osteoarthritic joint and surrounding tissues to function better.
Therapeutic ultrasound, different than a diagnostic ultrasound used to evaluate a fetus or heart, is used as a form of thermal therapy but also has nonthermal effects too. Therapeutic ultrasound uses sound waves to warm tissues resulting in increased circulation and pain control in osteoarthritic joints. The ultrasound is able to penetrate deeper into tissues than a topical warm compress. The nonthermal or nonwarming effects of therapeutic ultrasound also result in tissue healing, reduction of swelling and pain control. Electrical stimulation, e-stim or TENS, is the use of a controlled electrical current to stimulate a nerve and surrounding muscles. The electrical stimulation causes a sensory (sensation) or motor (muscle movement) in the tissues. Depending on how the electrical stimulation is applied it can aid in pain control, muscle relaxation and reduction of muscle atrophy and edema. Many people with back or neck issues are familiar with e-stim or TENS to aid in pain control. Hydrotherapy or water therapy, which typically consists of using an underwater treadmill or swimming, is a great tool for pets with hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis or neurologic problems and those pets needing help with weight loss or staying in shape. When using an underwater treadmill, the pet walks into a dry treadmill surrounded by four waterproof walls and floor. Warmed, filtered and conditioned water gradually fills the treadmill to the required level. Many owners believe, incorrectly, that their dog or cat will never tolerate an underwater treadmill. Many pets show no hesitation, especially water loving dogs like Labradors. Some pets are a little hesitant because it is a new experience but with the right encouragement and positive reinforcement (toys and treats) they come to enjoy the experience. I have seen a number of dogs run into the treadmill when it opens up even when it is not their turn. The water level can be adjusted for the size of the pet and the type of activity or work the rehabber needs the pet to perform. The more water, typically to the level of the hip, the less weight the osteoarthritic joints have to carry while in the water making it easier for the joint
to function. While the pet is walking in water, all four legs are working against the water resistance; building muscle, stamina and providing an aerobic work out. Swimming is another form of lowimpact, aerobic activity for osteoarthritic joints. At Charleston Veterinary Referral Center we are fortunate to have three certified physical rehabilitation professionals on staff. Our newly expanded rehabilitation center is in full swing and we would love to talk to you about how rehab can benefit your pet.
A community for pets and the people who love them Daniel Island Publix Shopping Center
843.377.8740 SPECIALIZING IN HOLISTIC NUTRITION
Animal Antics, LLC is a company dedicated to providing products that are of the highest quality, made from all natural ingredients and are environmentally friendly. As well as services, that exceed expectations and deliver value.
Pet Care • Behavior & Training • Grooming • Accessories
We view ourselves as ambassadors for a better planet; fostering compassion and respect in animal welfare and training, while understanding the science behind nutrition and animal behavior; our focus is on the health and wellness for all pets; to treat our customers with courtesy and gratitude, as well as, being partners in the community.
Animal Antics training philosophy is part of our holistic focus on good mental and physical health for pets. Our cooperative approach teaches socialization skills, modifies problem behaviors, and is the basis for our entire training curriculum.
843-284-8903
1964 Rivera Drive, Suite J Mount Pleasant www.animalanticsllc.com Check out Charleston Animal Society’s Puppy Parties, socialization classes with a professional dog trainer for puppies 7-24 weeks. Free with donation to the shelter. Registration required.
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Ask the Trainer: Happy Kids, Happy Dogs Even before Lassie became a movie star, and she and Timmy an example of a perfect dog and human relationship, most dog owners thought of Fido as man's best friend, and by extension a child's best friend. Dogs, however, are far more complex than the Lassie stereotype suggests, and training a dog to be a reliable family member takes time, patience, and diligence. If a human baby is about to be added to my family, even more energy must be put into training a dog, particularly a puppy. Your dog must be responsive to all cues and commands from you, and not be so nervous that the situation becomes dangerous. Dogs can initially be unsure of how to respond to a newborn baby, and they need time to adjust to the new family member; most dogs eventually acclimate to newborns, and do well with infants who are held, carried, or safely can find and cribs and playpens. However, crawling and walking infants are different from babies who were always confined or carried. Dogs can find toddlers bewildering. Toddlers movements and vocalizations are in sharp contrast to an adults, or even to an older child's speech and actions. Just as the dog has acclimated to a baby, the baby is suddenly on the move and intruding into the dog space, upsetting his/her mental equilibrium. With dog bites been one of the most common injuries to children under four, techniques to build rapport between dog and growing baby or extremely important. To increase the likelihood that your dog will tolerate your toddler well, and perhaps even enjoyed being around him or her, take care to socialize your dog with children of all ages before your child is born. Inadequate socialization two young children can create fear and aggression and dogs - manifesting in a myriad of negative ways. If you have no friends or neighbors with toddlers of their own, visit shopping centers and local parks to locate children under four whose parents will permit you to approach their child with your pet on a lead. It's crucial to the adjustment process to be watchful and responsible: if you have any concerns about your dog's behavior towards young children, consult a qualified behaviorist or professional dog trainer before your child is born. Veterinarians can usually provide the names of responsible professionals in these fields. Initially, you may want to involve the toddler and an activity such as throwing a toy or ball for your dog to retrieve,if she or he enjoys playing with toys or balls, or going on a walk with you and your dog. In this way, your dog will not be overwhelmed by the toddlers actions. Some of his or her attention will be on other things besides the dog. Take plenty of time to increase the difficulty of the interaction more touching or putting for example an increasing your pets proximity to the toddler. Many children in this age group are also phobic about dogs, and giving them something specific to do can be helpful to
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them as well. Using treats to make this interaction more positive and pleasant for your dog can also help tremendously. You can give your dog treats as the toddler approaches. Or if the approach is not problematic give your dog treats as the child runs or crawls, cries, or, only if it is safe, touches your dog. Puppies can be easier to socialize with children, and with people of different ages, ethnicities, and physical appearance including uniforms and apparatus such as crutches or wheelchair's. Under six months of age, puppies can be more trusting and open than adult dogs. However, adult dogs can be socialized with young children and with adults as well. Even if your dog displays a milder version or figure, both puppies and adult dogs can be exposed to all kinds of stimuli and to strangers of all types. But never force interaction; allow your dog to acclimate at his or her own right. If your puppy or dog displays moderate to excessive fear, or behaves in an aggressive manner, seek the help of the qualified behaviorist a professional dog trainer. After socialization, training your dog is the most important step you can take to help your dog cope with a toddler. Again the ideal time to train your dog as well before your child is born. Here is a short list of skills you'll find useful for gaining control: wait, sit/stay, down, stay, place, leave it, and come. Most of us know dogs, and some of us are lucky enough to be their owners, who are the canine equivalent of Mother Teresa around children, or at least very patient and tolerant. Please keep in mind, however, that such dogs should be seen as exceptions. Better to expect your dog to be in tolerant of children, and keep your toddler or other children safe. Finally, there are several good resources for working with your toddler and dog. Helping Fido Welcome Your Baby is a DVD set by Suzanne Hetts, DVM, and Daniel Estep, that's helpful to consult before your child is born. Some great books include Living with Kids and Dogs, by Colleen Pellar, and Happy Kids, Happy Dogs, by Barbara Shumannfang. Preparation for your baby's arrival, and for the day when he or she begins to crawl, is the best way to ensure your toddler safety and happiness as well as your dog's comfort and peace of mind. Susan Marrett is the owner of Purely Positive Dog Training, www. purelypositive.com.
DOG PARKS AT YOUR CHARLESTON COUNTY PARKS
JAMES ISLAND COUNTY PARK MOUNT PLEASANT PALMETTO ISLANDS COUNTY PARK NORTH CHARLESTON WANNAMAKER COUNTY PARK
Adopt • Foster • Donate
CharlestonCountyParks.com • (843) 795-4FUN
SAVE THE DATE Yappy Hour James Island County Park • October 16 Bark in the Park! Oktoberfest! North Charleston Wannamaker County Park • October 19 Pups, Yups, and Food Trucks Mount Pleasant Palmetto Islands County Park • October 23 Lowcountrydog
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