Lowcountry Dog Magazine April May 2018 by Lowcountry Dog Magazine

Issue No. 16 • APRIL/MAY 2018 • DIGITAL

A TRUE FRIEND LEAVES PAW PRINTS ON YOUR HEART

The Rescue Freedom Project

ADOPTABLE DOGS!

ANIMAL ADVOCATE: Alice Lowndes Taylor

Meet the Pack PUBLISHER Brian Foster brian@lowcountrydog.com CHIEF CANINE OFFICER Peanut EDITORIAL COLUMNIST Alicia Williams alicia@lowcountrydog.com SOCIAL MEDIA ASSISTANT Izzy Selert STAFF WRITERS Julie Murray Kelly Glasson Jessica Harrell COPY EDITOR Chelsea Bradford PHOTOGRAPHER Southern Vintage Photography

We believe that our dogs are our best friends, and that’s why we need a reliable source to turn to for information on all things “dog” in our community. Our mission is to be the number one Charleston area resource for dog owners regarding regional dog-centric and dogwelcoming events, health & wellness information, dog training, trends, and local news. We also strive to be a mouthpiece to the public for various Lowcountry-based pet nonprofits, and we promote pet adoption and other responsible pet care practices. Founded in Charleston, South Carolina in 2005 as a print magazine, we re-launched in 2015 as an online publication. In 2016 we updated our website to continue our mission to be the best dog friendly resource in the Lowcountry.

RESCUE SPOTLIGHT PRODUCER Palmetto Coast Media WEB DEVELOPER & CONSULTANT Laura Olsen CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Danielle Dolce Kimberly Blaker Victoria Vesce

Sniff Us out!

CONTENTS COVER STORY

A TRUE FRIEND LEAVES PAW PRINTS ON YOUR HEART FEATURES

PEANUT TIPS- SOME FACTS ABOUT FLEAS

SIT, STAY, BEHAVE- HOW A FOUNDATION OF OBEDIENCE CAN TRANSFORM YOUR DOG!

HEALTH AND WELLNESSPROTECT YOUR DOG FROM HEATSTROKE & HYPERTHERMIA IN THE SUMMER MONTHS AHEAD

PEACE, LOVE & REAL TALK

RESCUE FREEDOM PROJECT

ANIMAL ADVOCATE: ALICE TAYLOR

RESCUE SPOTLIGHTS & GO GREEN: ADOPTABLE DOGS

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Some Facts about Fleas

's t u n Pea s Tip

Fleas are the most common external parasite to plague companion animals. They are wingless insects that feed on blood, can jump up to two feet high and are persistent in the environment. Fleas can live for as few as 13 days or as long as 12 months—and during that time, can produce millions of offspring. Fleas are most commonly noticed on a dog’s abdomen, the base of the tail and the head. Causes of Fleas Fleas are easily brought in from the outdoors. Fleas thrive in warm, humid climates at temperatures of 65 to 80 degrees. Adult fleas spend most of their lives on the animal, laying eggs in the fur. These eggs drop out onto rugs, upholstery, bedding and furniture; the new adult fleas will, in turn, find their living host (either human or animal). Flea Complications Fleas can consume 15 times their own body weight in blood, which can cause anemia or a significant amount of blood loss over time. This is especially problematic in young puppies, where an inadequate number of red blood cells can be life-threatening. Some pets have heightened sensitive to the saliva of fleas, which can cause an allergic reaction known as flea allergy dermatitis. CONSULT YOUR VETERINARIAN FOR THE BEST FLEA PREVENTION FOR YOUR DOG! source ASPCA

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Sit, Stay...Behave! How a Foundation of Obedience Can Transform Your Dog!

Written by Danielle Dolce

As I sit in front of my client and their adolescent dog, I can sense their frustration and see that they have reached a clear dead end on what to do. This hyper 8 month old Australian Shepherd was intensely pulling on the leash, jumping on guests, biting for attention and playing the “catch me if you can” game when calling him to come. These were only a few of the behaviors and the kids were now apprehensive of him as he constantly chased them when they tried to get away. As his owners continued to pull him off and hold on to him tightly, I could tell that this family’s dog meant

well but his high energy and puppy habits tried his family to no end. Was this the right dog for their family? How would training obedience help to fix these behaviors? Looking at the big picture, he lacked structure, general impulse control and had an auto-pilot mindset. He did what he pleased instead of looking for or listening to direction. He created his own leadership and his family was not able to clearly communicate with him. So where do we start?

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Very simply, we look past the core problem and begin by looking at a dog’s “State of Mind” as a whole. Dogs with similar behaviors need a foundation and guidance to steer them in the right direction. That foundation is what will create a better relationship and allow us to clearly see a dog's motivation, not to mention we can stimulate them mentally. With different commands, we teach dogs what "no" means and are able to praise them when they are doing what we want them to do. These commands serve as tools to help my clients become successful when communicating with their dogs. General obedience skills help a dog to become more respectful and allow the owner to regain dominance in the household. Transitioning this young Australian Shepherd from a bad dog to a good dog by building the foundation of obedience was a game changer for him and his family. The family was able to better recognize his personality, communicate more effectively with their dog and modify the unwanted behavior through obedience training. Getting your dog trained is not only great for reliability, it also benefits

your dog mentally. Being able to implement a solid foundation was a huge sigh of relief not only for the family but also for the dog. Seeing this transformation unfold was truly a satisfying moment in my career as a dog trainer.

"With different commands, we teach dogs what "no" means and are able to praise them when they are doing what we want them to do."

"Since becoming a professional dog trainer, I have seen a lot of dogs with behavior problems transition over time into the â&#x20AC;&#x153;good dogâ&#x20AC;? that I knew was there all along. It is rewarding to see families become closer and happier with their dogs and it is why I am so passionate about what I do. If you train your dog and work with them consistently on their habits, your relationship will bloom beyond measure."Â - Danielle Dolce, Strong Mind K9

This issue is dedicated to two Lowcountry Dogs that we lost recently. Buckwheat & Captain! REST IN PEACE

Health

Written by Kimberly Blaker According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, hundreds of dogs die each year as a result of being left in parked cars. This often occurs when dog owners make a stop with the intent of only being gone a few minutes. Many a dog owner has said to themselves, “Oh, there's no need to worry. I won't let anything get me sidetracked.” But the fact is, getting sidetracked or delayed can happen to anyone. Unfortunately, unforeseen circumstances can and do arise, such as having to wait in a long line, running into someone and getting tied up in a conversation or any number of other scenarios. It takes only a few minutes for a car to heat up to dangerous temperatures.

Wellness

Protect Your Dog From Heatstroke & Hyperthermia in The Summer Months Ahead Many dog owners also believe a car can't get too hot for their dog with the windows cracked open or on a cloudy day. Sadly, these mistaken notions have resulted in countless dog emergencies and deaths.

"Studies have found that within only 10 minutes, car interiors can heat up by nearly 20° Fahrenheit." lowcountry dog 10

Car interiors heat up quickly Studies have found that within only 10 minutes, car interiors can heat up by nearly 20° Fahrenheit. The more time that lapses, the hotter a car gets. At 60 minutes, the car cabin temperature can increase by 45 degrees. Contrary to popular belief, a study by Lynn I. Gibbs, et al., appearing in the Journal of the Louisiana State Medical Society found there's little difference in the temperature rise between a light-grey minivan with partially opened windows and a darkcolored sedan with the windows closed. In the study, both vehicles heated up by 20° within the first 10 minutes and at one hour had only a 2° temperature difference. Most charts that show the rise in car cabin temperature start at 70° days. But even a 50° or 60° day can have temperature increases with similar increments. For many dog breeds, particularly those with thick or long hair or short snouts, a car can still heat up enough on these cooler days to cause hyperthermia or heat stroke. Even for those smart dog owners who would never leave their dog in the car on a warm day, there's still the potential for danger. There have been many documented cases where a dog owner has unintentionally left a dog in the car because the dog is sleeping quietly in the back. To prevent such an incident, always place your dog's leash on top of your purse or in a conspicuous place so when you get out of the car, you're reminded Felix or Fido is in the vehicle.

Exercise in hot or sunny weather poses increased risk Dogs are also particularly prone to heat exhaustion or heatstroke when they're overexercised, especially during hot weather but also on mild, sunny days. As mentioned above, certain breeds are particularly prone. Always monitor your dog's behavior. If it begins to pant or drool or wants to stop, don't push it. Give your dog the rest and shade it needs. Signs of hyperthermia or heatstroke in dogs The signs of heatstroke or hyperthermia are similar in both dogs and cats. A dog doesn't have to experience all the symptoms to be in danger. Any one or more symptoms can be a sign your dog is in distress. The result if not caught and treated quickly could be coma or death. ● panting ● excessive drooling ● pale gums ● bright red tongue

● difficulty breathing ● increased heart rate ● irregular heart beat ● little to no urination ● vomiting ● fever, 103° Fahrenheit or more ● heartbeat or breathing stops ● muscle tremors ● seizures ● shock What to do if your dog overheats If your dog is experiencing heat exhaustion or shows signs of heatstroke or hyperthermia, you should get your dog out of the heat and sun immediately. Move your dog into some shade or preferably air conditioning. In addition for dogs, you can use a hose or put the dog in a tub of tepid but not cold water. Since most cats hate baths, instead try just dipping your cat's feet in a sink of tepid water. You can also wet a towel and rub your cat or dog down concentrating especially on the head, neck, and underside of the legs. Although it might sound helpful to feed your dog ice or icy cold water, it's dangerous to cool down an overheated animal in this manner.

"Dogs are also particularly prone to heat exhaustion or heatstroke when they're overexercised, especially during hot weather or even on mild, sunny days." What to do if you see a dog left in a hot car In the United States, there are 13 states with laws about dogs being left in vehicles. The laws vary by state but are in place in Arizona, California, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, and North Carolina. Dog owners should be aware of their state's laws or any state they may be traveling to. Even in states where laws are not in place, good samaritans can take action to protect or save the life of an animal left in a hot vehicle. If you see a dog left in a parked car in temperatures that could easily escalate inside the cabin, or if an animal shows signs of distress, call 911. Also, you can go into the store where the car is parked and ask that the owner of the vehicle be paged over the store intercom.

I’m pretty sure we can all agree that dogs are the most magnificent creatures on the planet and we, as humans, do not deserve them. As Amy Poehler would say, “People are trash and dogs are nice.” I know that somewhere there is scientific evidence of how dogs make a person happier and healthier – but have you ever seen or experienced it first hand? It really is quite beautiful and there’s something almost magical about what they bring to our life. There are many people (including myself) who suffer with depression and/or anxiety. When I am in a dark place, I medicate myself and sleep. I don’t want anyone to talk to me while I’m down. I feel worthless and alone. lowcountry dog 14

All you need is (a dog's) LOVE While I am enduring my pity party of one, my dog (named Sunshine) is with me lying at the bottom of my bed – and takes her sweet, rather large head and puts it on my leg like it’s a little pillow (y’all know how they do). It isn’t much, and it doesn’t bring me completely out of my black hole – but it’s the first step. My irrational thoughts start to slightly fade and my heart starts melting with actual feelings of warmth and kindness; all because Sunshine is so damn adorable. It’s by no means a cure, but it’s a nice relief to say the least.

A person who is very dear to me was diagnosed with bipolar disorder about a year ago. She has struggled with finding balance; some days are high and some days are low – but every day is a challenge. Recently, this woman decided to foster a dog in need. This particular dog was rescued from a commercial breeder and doesn’t understand how to be a “dog.” Just like her caretaker, this pup needed balance. Since this is the first time the dog has ever been in a stable environment, she has some things to learn about canine manners and makes mistakes rather frequently. However, the dog’s keeper has the everyday is a challenge mentality and can relate to the difficulties of adjustment. Although from completely different species, neither is alone. They will both make it through, one day at a time.

"So if you’re ever feeling down, just remember: somewhere there is a dog who loves you just the way you are." A dog doesn’t have to be certified in emotional support to give you the little push that you may need. Fido that made you smile on your morning walk gave you a moment of happiness you wouldn’t have had otherwise. Petting a cuddly puppy during a stressful time provided you with a slight peace of mind. Pulling up to your house and hearing whimpering because Bella knows that her person is home makes you feel wanted. I could go on and on. On paper this all kind of sounds silly, but we have to admit, it’s happened to most of us at least once. So if you’re ever feeling down, just remember: somewhere there is a dog who loves you just the way you are.

THE GALACTIC DOG FESTIVAL RETURNS

MAY 5th 1 to 5 pm FOOD TRUCKS CHARACTER APPEARANCES PHOTO CONTESTS

LIVE MUSIC BY JAMISUN & MCKENNA ANDREWS HOSTED BY BOX IN THE MORNING 6775 Bears Bluff Rd, Wadmalaw Island sponsored byÂ

Benefiting these local rescue groups

About the Cover Daisy & DeHart A year ago, model and former NBA dancer, Victoria Vesce found out she had a brain tumor. She turned to the comfort of her French Bulldog/Boston Terrier Mix, Daisy, to help her through the months of treatment and recovery. The power of a dogs love helped her cope with the hardest thing she had ever had to face. Read more about how Daisy helped Victoria and how they are celebrating life every day.

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A TRUE FRIEND LEAVES PAW PRINTS ON YOUR HEART Written by Victoria Vesce

The journey of the past year of my life is nothing short of miraculous and one of the greatest supporters on my path towards healing was and is Daisy. Daisy has been with me for almost 4 years and it was love at first sight! Through thick and thin, happiness and heartbreak she has been by my side! But little did I know that at age 23, having been perfectly healthy and active my entire life, I was about the face the biggest battle I have ever fought. After experiencing trouble with my right ear, I was misdiagnosed for two months. I was told I had an ear infection numerous times as I continued to get sicker. As the weeks passed and I knew things were not “normal” it was also evident to me how close Daisy was clinging to me, especially around my neck and ear. Photos by J Michael Walker

Finally I decided to see a specialist E.N.T. doctor and he did a CAT scan. That scan revealed a brain tumor and I was immediately set up for appointments at Duke. I cannot explain the level of my disbelief and the fear and anxiety I felt…. but Daisy knew and she never left my side. There are numerous ways dogs contribute to our health. They are remarkable in helping to relieve anxiety and stress because when a dog is in your life there is always a reason to smile.

The days and weeks leading up to the major surgery encompassed many visits to Duke as well as more scans that revealed I also had a neck (carotid artery) tumor. This news on top of the original news hit me like a ton of bricks. I had tried to be so stoic but this is when I finally broke down and cried. My fur baby Daisy brought me through this downward spiral. She stayed close snuggling me and looking at me with those big sweet eyes that said “I love you and will be by your side”.

The days that ensued involved many procedures leading up to the the major surgery that took almost 8 hours and left me with a 9 inch scar and deaf in my right ear. I looked like Frankenstein! Through many prayers and the grace of God, the neck tumor was fully removed and the brain tumor was almost completely removed. There was part of the highly vascular and tenacious tumor that was wrapped too close to nerves and arteries and I had agreed with the doctors ahead of time that in order to prevent a stroke or other devastating nerve damage they could leave any bit that posed danger if they tried to remove. I was hospitalized for 7 days and had some bumps on the way to recovery but finally was able to come home. I know everyone thinks their dog is the best (and they are all right) but Daisy really is my lifesaver! Coming home to that wagging nub of a tail (she is a Frenchton) and that smile (honestly she smiles!) was the best medicine! Kisses were abundant! Never underestimate the power of a sloppy kiss and a wet nose.

“I have found that when you are deeply troubled, there are things you get from the silent devoted companionship of a dog that you can get from no other source.” -Doris Dey There were weeks ahead of me for healing, learning to walk again and even hold my head up. Cuddling with Daisy lifted depression and relieved anxiety as well as helped to strengthen my immune system in reaching recovery. Some angels choose fur over wings and Daisy was and is my angel.

The healing power of a pup is real! I underwent 28 rounds of radiation this past summer and 4 days after my last dose I started law school at Charleston School of Law. Daisy and I have started our own little fashion blog and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be surprised if you see us around Charleston modeling together, at the dog park or on the beach! We are inseparable! Love is a four legged word and you too can find this love. We want to stress the importance of adoption; unconditional love is as close as your nearest shelter! May 18th will be the one year since my surgery and everyday begins with gratitude and a hug and kiss from Daisy! XOXO Victoria Vesce

Animal Cruelty Happens Everyday

There is one group who fights for those who have no voice...

SUPPORT

valiantanimalrescue.org

The Rescue + Freedom Project, formerly known as the Beagle Freedom Project, is not your typical animal rescue organization. Their focus is on saving animals in unique situations such as survivors of laboratory experiments, special needs dogs and those who have gone through horrible abuse like rescues from the Asian dog meat trade. Their mission through all of this is to change the way the world thinks of animals by promoting a Rescue Lifestyle and raising awareness and societal responsibility for these silent victims of human cruelty. RFP was founded in 2010 by Shannon Keith and is based out of Los Angeles, California. It started out as the Beagle Freedom Project, rescuing beagles from laboratory experiments. Sadly, the same characteristics that make beagles wonderful family pets are the same reasons they are favored for lab use -

Written by Julie Murray they are calm, forgiving and love to please people. However, it soon became clear that their mission needed to expand to accommodate other animals living is similarly horrific conditions. Founder Keith says “All animals are individuals who feel pain. Most suffer in silence, and therefore, it is not only our job, but our responsibility, to speak out for them and take action to protect them, no matter the cost, no matter the distance, no matter. These are our dogs and they deserve better.” One of the biggest messages that RFP wants to spread is the reality about the horrors of animal testing. lowcountry dog 26

Dogs languish in laboratories, often having their vocal cords removed so they do not “disturb” the technicians; some are inseminated over and over again to produce more puppies for testing; tubes are put down their throats, and procedures are done without anesthesia. Some rescues have teeth falling out due to a poor diet of “laboratory chow” - a food that is designed to produce minimal waste. They are kept isolated and have no toys, no enrichment whatsoever. There are some guidelines for these testing facilities but they are very difficult to enforce. If all of this sounds unacceptable to you, remember that change can happen from even the smallest act. Stop buying products that are tested on animals and send a message to these companies by hitting them where it hurts - their wallets! To make this easier, RFP developed an app called Cruelty Cutter that allows a shopper to scan the barcode of a product to find out if it is tested on animals. It costs nothing and can be the first crack in the system if enough of us participate. While it is vitally important to start small by shopping smarter and removing animals from these types of situations, RFP believes that real change must be affected through reformation of laws to end animal testing. By bringing to light all the things that these animals are suffering through, they hope to start a public dialogue that creates a positive change in animal rights. lowcountry dog 26

One of the things they are working on right now is called the Beagle Freedom Bill. This is a proposal that will help rescue dogs and cats from tax-payer funded research laboratories. Currently, there are no regulations about what happens when a laboratory is finished testing on an animal. This bill will create a relationship between labs and rescue organizations so the animals will have somewhere safe to go after they are no longer needed for experiments. So far, six states have already passed this bill and RFP needs help to keep the momentum going! You can help by contacting your political representatives and letting them know how important this issue is to you - use your power as a voter to help ensure that animals who endured such terrible conditions have a safe and loving place to live out the rest of their lives. Another way this group is prompting change is by awarding grants to applicants who use humane alternatives to animal testing in their research. So far, RFP has awarded $250,000 to organizations that strive to find alternatives to animal based research. There are several ways you can help the Rescue + Freedom Project achieve their goals. Spread the word about the plight of lab animals- sharing a post on social media has the potential to reach thousands of people and educate them about the horrors of animal testing. If you work in a facility that does animal testing and you want someone to know,

RFP has a confidential hotline you can call (818-700-0013 x90); you do not need to leave your name and the information only goes to one person. There is also the option of planned giving through bequests or charitable trusts, which help RFP’s mission and also has tax advantages. You can also foster or adopt, hold a fundraising event, donate money and select Rescue + Freedom Project through Amazon Smile. Check out their website at www.rescuefreedomproject.org to learn more!

ANNUAL COVER CONTEST RESCHEDULED DUE TO WEATHER TO MAY 5th at

ENTER FOR FREE AT THE EVENT FROM 1 to 5pm!

FIND OUT MORE HERE

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ANNUAL COVER CONTEST MAY 5th from 1 to 5pm 6775 Bears Bluff Rd, Wadmalaw Island

Alice Lowndes Taylor Occupation:

CT Lowndes & Company Processor, Owner of Collars for a Cause, COO of Waters Edge Great Dane Rescue

What pets do you currently have? 2 Great Danes- Roc & Pawley, Lab/Dane mix- Waker, French Bulldog- Frenchie

When and how did you get involved in animal rescue? After I adopted my second Great Dane Captain & learned about WEGDR, I felt that for me adopting wasn’t enough. I needed to do more and had the ability and time to help in other ways. I started small by helping the rescue out with their social media. then I started fostering Danes and held my first fundraiser. I was hooked & couldn’t get enough! It snowballed until I became COO and I actively work for the rescue every day now.

What is one thing you wish more people understood about animal rescue? I wish more people understood everything a rescue needs in order to be able to help, and that sometimes we don’t have the means to be able to help with every request. Volunteers, foster homes, funding, etc are all in short supply. It’s heartbreaking for us when we have to say we aren’t able to help at that time.

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What is your most memorable rescue story? Every dog at the rescue has its own story and a special place in my heart but most memorable would probably be the Remington Puppy Mill Great Danes. It was my first time working to help a large number of dogs in a different state (FL). I was actually on vacation (anyone in rescue will tell you there is no such thing as vacation!) when the puppy mill was busted and everything happened so fast. WEGDR decided we could take 10 Great Danes into the rescue and it was a crazy race to arrange transports from FL to SC and get everything in order. We pulled it off and became a stronger team because of those dogs. We met many wonderful volunteers from all over the country who were helping as well and I’m still in contact with them today. We help each other out when needed which in turn has helped so many more Danes in need!

What advice would you give someone who wants to help animals? It’s an amazing thing to help those who don’t have a voice. It’s hard work and some days will be harder than others. Those days will make you want to walk away but the day you see relief on an animals face because they know without a doubt you are there to help, you will have a surge of strength to continue. Stay strong and keep your heart open.

What is it about helping animals that drives you to do what you do? Their unconditional love. Their integrity. They drive me to be a better person. They are my role models. The least I can do for such important beings in my life is help give them a voice.

What is one thing you wish our lawmakers would change when it comes to animal laws? Slowly animals laws are changing for the better. I wish for better enforcement of the laws we currently have now. I would also wish he laws would change faster. Animals are suffering while we are debating. It shouldn’t be so difficult to decide what’s right and wrong, what’s sufficient and insufficient. It’s a life that deserves the best we can give.

Water's Edge Great Dane Rescue WEGDR began 12 years ago, after director Michelle Reinke discovered what a huge need there was for help in the world of animal welfare through her work at a local animal shelter. She formed a charity in order to help any way she could. “We took in pitbulls, stray cats, or just about anything that needed our help. We spayed and neutered them, microchipped them and nursed many back to health through the years.” One day, a 4 week old Great Dane puppy named Domino came their way, Michelle said she fell in love and WEGDR was born. “We love all breeds,” she explains, “but being a rescue with limited funding at the time, we decided to go breed specific…” The main focus of the organization is rescuing Danes, However, there are times when they find other breeds (called “Honorary Danes”) who need help as well. The rescue understands that the animals have likely had a rough start to life and do all they can to ensure the comfort and happiness of the animal for the future. When an animal comes to WEGDR, they are given veterinary care and placed in a foster home until they can be adopted into a loving home.

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Lofty Pursuit- GPA

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