PETS Magazine | March/April 2016

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SUFFERING IN SILENCE

JOINT DISEASE IN AGING CATS

MARCH/APRIL 2016 | $4.95 | www.petsmagazine.ca

Guide to

PET OWNERS’ RESOURCES

• • • • •

Keeping Your Garden Toxin-Free Travelling with Pets Six Dog Trick Videos Coping with Food Allergies …and more!

PLUS: GOLDEN RESCUE IN TURKEY • DOES PET OWNERSHIP REDUCE HUMAN HEALTHCARE COSTS?

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C O N T E N T S

FEATURE

8 Suffering in Silence Joint disease a hidden concern for aging cats.

DEPARTMENTS 4 Making Tracks 21 PETS Marketplace 22 Pet Projects

Guide to PET OWNERS’ RESOURCES 11 Killer Beauty Poisonous plant garden educates students, veterinarians and pet owners.

12 Basic Training You don’t have to be a pro to teach your dog these six easy, crowd-pleasing tricks!

14 Reference Check Click with caution when searching the net for pet information, and check out these recommendations.

16 Girth of a Nation Weight loss is a challenge for pets (just like us!), but it is possible — and it can improve health!

18 Food Allergies Does your dog have an itch it can’t quite scratch?

The culprit could be in his food dish.

19 Should They Stay or Should They Go, Now? Tips for travelling with pets.

20 Fashion and Function: Choosing The Right Collar Selecting a collar based on your dog’s training, handling and need for bling.

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PETS

M A K I N G

M A G A Z I N E

A study by the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) recently addressed the rehoming of cats and dogs in the United States, as well as the reasons behind why many pet owners feel they have no other choice but to re-home their pets.

The study, published in the peerreviewed Open Journal of Animal Sciences, reveals that an estimated 6.12 million households are re-homing, or surrendering, their pets every five years — meaning that more than 1 million households are re-homing their pets each year. The study aimed to uncover how and why these pet owners are re-homing their pets.

“While some of the reasons people re-home their pets are quite complex and difficult to change, many reasons given by the respondents in this study might have been easily resolved through affordable, accessible veterinary care, pet-friendly housing and access to other supplies and resources,” said Dr. Emily Weiss, vice president of research and development for the ASPCA. “Knowing that many pet owners would’ve opted to keep their pet with them if they’d had access to such critical services illustrates the need for programs and services that intervene and reach these pet owners before they’re forced to make this difficult decision. This is especially crucial in underserved communities where poverty rates are high and access to resources is limited.”

Of pet owners surveyed who reported having given up a pet within the last five years, the following trends were uncovered: Re-homed pets were most often given to a friend or family member (37%), closely followed by being taken to a shelter (36%). Other re-homing options included being taken to a veterinarian (14%), being given to someone not previously known (11%) and being set free (1%).

The most common primary reasons for re-homing a pet were related to the pets themselves (46%), followed by family situations (27%) and housing issues (18%).

Among the 46% who responded that they gave up a pet due to a pet-related issue, 26% said they could not afford medical care for their pets’ health problems.

When pet owners with incomes lower than $50,000 were asked which service might have helped them the most, the majority indicated free or low-cost veterinary care (40%). Other resources indicated were free or low-cost training or behaviour help (34%), access to pet-friendly housing (33%), free or low-cost spay/neuter services (30%), free or low-cost pet food (30%), free or low-cost temporary pet care or boarding (30%) and assistance in paying pet deposits for housing (17%).

Of those who reported housing-related issues as their main reason for re-homing pets, 43% cited issues with their landlord, while 39% said that they did not have enough space. For respondents who rent instead of own, housing-related issues were the number one reason for re-homing.

One of the most powerful findings in the study was the stark difference in responses between those with a household income below $50,000 and those with a household income above $50,000. Those with income below $50,000 were significantly more likely to re-home due to cost and housing issues as opposed to pet-related issues. They were also more likely to re-home all pets in the household at once.

“Efforts to address animal homelessness often focus on helping animals in shelters, but this research and our own community-focused programs show we need to focus just as much on keeping pets from entering shelters in the first place, specifically by helping owners access critical resources,” said Matt Bershadker, president and CEO of the ASPCA. “When pets are kept out of shelters, it not only protects those animals, but keeps families together and frees up critical shelter space and supplies for other animals in need.”

The ASPCA estimates that of the approximately 7.6 million pets who enter animal shelters each year, approximately 2.7 million are euthanized. www.aspca.org

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SIMMONS PUBLISHING LTD. Publisher

John Simmons john.simmons@petsmagazine.ca

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Brad Hussey brad.hussey@petsmagazine.ca

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Mark Tzerelshtein markintoshdesign.com Linda Simmons linda.simmons@petsmagazine.ca

EDITORIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE Kristina Cooper, RVT, Cooper Kennels, Ancaster, ON Dr. Dieter Kohlmaier, Westoak Animal Hospital, Oakville, ON Dr. Darren Low, Kennedy Animal Hospital, Sydney, NS Kerry Vinson, Animal Behaviour Professional, Roseneath, ON Dr. Christina McRae, King Street Cat Hospital, Whitby, ON Dr. Cliff Redford, Wellington Vet Clinic, Markham, ON PETS Magazine is published six times a year by Simmons Publishing Ltd. ISSN: 0831-2621 To subscribe to PETS, contact Linda Simmons Toll Free: 877-738-7624 or visit us on the Web at:

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T R A C K S

ONE MILLION HOUSEHOLDS IN U.S. FORCED TO GIVE UP PET ANNUALLY >>

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M A K I N G

T R A C K S

PET OWNERSHIP SAVES $11.7 BILLION IN HEALTH CARE COSTS: RESEARCH GROUP >> The Human Animal Bond Research Initiative (HABRI) Foundation recently announced the findings of an economic study on the healthcare cost savings associated with pet ownership. The economic analysis, conducted by two researchers from George Mason University, calculated an $11.7 billion savings in U.S. healthcare costs as a result of pet ownership.

“There was abundant research to show that pets have a positive effect on our health, but this is the first time that anyone has looked at the impact on the U.S. healthcare system,” said study co-author Terry L. Clower, PhD Northern Virginia Chair and Professor of Public Policy at George Mason University’s School of Policy, Government, and International Affairs and Director of its Center on Regional Analysis.

“Our analysis shows that pet ownership produces meaningful savings for total healthcare costs in the United States.”

“Thinking about things that people should do to maintain their health, ‘get a pet’ belongs on that list,” said HABRI Executive Director, Steven Feldman. “When health insurance companies are looking at wellness incentives to keep costs down, pet ownership provides another way for people to stay healthy and save money.”

The largest savings was determined based on a lower incidence of physician office visits by pet owners as compared to non-owners.

According to the study, 132.8 million pet owners in the United States visit a doctor 0.6 times less than the average non-pet owners.

The average cost of a physician office visit is $139. Pet owners, in this way, were responsible for saving $11.37 billion in U.S. healthcare costs.

Additional savings were calculated for dog owners who walk their dog five or more times a week. This group, totalling more than 20 million people, shows a lower incidence of obesity, and were responsible for saving $419 million in related healthcare costs.

While additional health benefits associated with pet ownership have been documented by scientific research, the economists were unable to determine specific cost data associated with those findings.

Researchers looked at scientific studies showing a positive impact from pet ownership on infection control, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, cholesterol, allergies, stress, blood pressure and psychological issues, and concluded that further economic data was necessary before healthcare savings could be calculated. According to the report, “because this analysis is limited and conservative, the healthcare cost savings associated with pet ownership is likely to be even greater.” The full report can be found on the HABRI website, www.habri.org.

CAT ADOPTION AND EDUCATION CENTRE (CAEC) OPENS IN GTA >> Construction is now complete on Markham’s new Cat Adoption and Education Centre (CAEC), located in the Thornhill (ON) Community Centre and Library. The official opening ceremony of the CAEC took place on February 23, 2016.

The “storefront” adoption and education centre model was approved by City Council in June 2015. It provides a unique solution toward reducing cat euthanasia rates in the region with the goal of facilitating more than 200 cat adoptions each year. The CAEC will also provide education services and awareness programs on animal care and wellness.

NEWS | PRODUCTS | REVIEWS Facilities in Welland and Niagara Falls, ON, have experienced great success with the similar storefront models.

“With construction now complete, the new CAEC is the first of its kind in the GTA (Greater Toronto Area) and the first cat adoption storefront i n Ontario to be funded by a municipality,” says Markham Mayor, Frank Scarpitti. “We’re very proud of the new centre, and eager for the community to learn more and participate in this unique initiative that will bring families and cats needing homes together.”

The CAEC will house 17 cats on a regular basis and provide a convenient, accessible location for adoption and education services.

All the cats will be in excellent health, spayed or neutered, have up-to-date vaccinations and will be ready for “on-the-spot” adoption.

Currently, the closest adoption facility in York Region is the Newmarket branch of the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA).

Other community programs planned for the CAEC will include anxiety therapy programs, a Junior Vets program and educational involvement with local schools, including students enrolled in Veterinary Technician Programs along with volunteering opportunities for seniors’ and community groups.

For those who have never taken in a pet, the centre will offer a variety of education and information tools about choosing the right pet for their family and the many aspects of animal care. The daily operation of the CAEC and care of cats will be managed by the OSPCA and trained volunteers under the direction of City of Markham staff. Since the CAEC is not an animal shelter, the intake of unwanted animals will continue to be offered by the OSPCA’s Newmarket Shelter.

VETERINARY STUDENT SYMPOSIUM FOCUSES ON MENTAL HEALTH >> From January 15 to 16, 2016, the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) of the University of Guelph hosted over 250 veterinary students at the annual Students of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (SCVMA) Symposium. For the past 30 years, the Symposium has been an enriching leadership experience for the organizers and a valuable opportunity for student veterinarians from across the country to gather, learn and practice hands-on.

The student-chosen theme for the event focused on a sensitive subject in veterinary medicine — mental health.

“The theme gave students an opportunity to explore some of the subjects in veterinary medicine that most people don’t like to discuss,” says Jamie Freeman-Braganca, SCVMA Symposium Chair and second-year student at 6

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NEWS | PRODUCTS | REVIEWS` the Ontario Veterinary College. “We wanted to face this topic head-on and open up the floor for discussion of these difficult topics.”

Along with educational sessions, such as wet labs, lectures and demonstrations to broaden student’s exposure to the many facets of veterinary medicine, the SCVMA Symposium added lectures on stress management and how to cope with compassion fatigue. It also closed out the two-day event with its keynote speaker, Dr. Terry Whiting, who is an OVC graduate and now Manager of Health and Welfare for the Province of Manitoba. He also speaks freely about his own battle with mental illness.

“Mental health should not be a taboo topic,” says Dr. Whiting. “I wanted to share my own struggles with mental illness throughout my career as an animal welfare officer, so our future veterinarians understand that it’s ok to reach out for help. It’s ok to talk about the elephant in the room.”

HEALTHIER SMILES FOR A HEALTHIER PET >> A complete oral exam and a therapeutic dental cleaning are vital to keeping your dog or cat healthy. That’s because plaque and tartar build-up, especially under the gumline, needs to be removed regularly to prevent tooth decay, gum inflammation and periodontal disease.

M A K I N G

A professional dental cleaning is a complex procedure and can only be performed at your veterinarian’s clinic. This is because a general anaesthetic is required to adequately examine and clean each tooth and hard-toreach places, like under the gumline.

(Imagine trying to clean under your pet’s gums while they are awake—it would be impossible to keep them still!)

What happens during a therapeutic dental cleaning?

Examination and evaluation: After your pet has been safely anaesthetized, a thorough oral examination is performed by your veterinary team. This includes probing each tooth and documenting all findings in the pet’s dental chart.

Dental X-rays: These radiograph images help your veterinarian make a more accurate evaluation of your pet’s oral health by revealing issues that are invisible to the naked eye.

Scaling: This process removes all tartar and plaque from the teeth and from under the

T R A C K S

gumline. The same type of instruments your dentist uses on your teeth (scalers and curettes) will be used.

Polishing: The cleaning process can leave a rough finish that can trap plaque. Polishing will smooth out tooth surfaces and make it harder for plaque to come back.

Irrigation: After the teeth have been cleaned and polished they are rinsed to remove any remaining debris. It is important that no debris, such as polishing paste, be left under the gumline.

Sealing the surfaces of the teeth: A sealant may be applied to your pet’s teeth to help protect the enamel and prevent tooth decay.

Benefits of a professional dental cleaning: • Removes plaque build-up above and below the gumline.

• Identifies problems that should be addressed (includes recommending surgery).

• Prepares the teeth for tartar prevention and home dental care.

• Makes at-home dental care part of your pet’s routine.

There are many dental products available from your veterinary clinic. Speak with your veterinary healthcare team for a recommended home dental care routine that best suits your lifestyle. — Canadian Animal Health Institute www.cahi-icsa.ca

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DEGENERATIVE JOINT DISEASE HIDDEN ISSUE IN CATS

By Gwen Roy >> hink your senior kitty no longer moves around or plays because it’s simply growing older?

Think again. Inactivity is a common clue that your cat may have degenerative joint disease (DJD).

According to a research study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) cats over 12 years old have a 90% chance of developing DJD — a condition that occurs when cartilage on the ends of the bones is damaged.

This change is irreversible. Veterinarians often see this problem in senior cats (older than eight years). The pain caused by these changes in affected joints may have a severe impact on a cat’s quality of life.

Dr. Kira Penney, a clinical associate at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM), says owners often miss signs of DJD. “Owners don’t recognize the signs of pain in cats because they are good at hiding it. They tend to scrunch up in a little ball and sleep more,” says Penney, a certified canine rehabilitation therapist (CCRT) who is awaiting her certification in veterinary acupuncture.

These cats are showing signs they’re reluctant to do their normal, day-to-day activities. Penney finds once she questions owners about how behaviours have changed, they begin to recognize pain may be the cause of their cats’ inactivity.

It’s important to let your veterinarian know if you have concerns about DJD in your pet. While radiographs can be helpful, looking for behaviour changes in your cat is the first line of defense.

Signs of DJD may be as subtle as a decrease in appetite or in regular grooming.

Some cats may avoid using the litterbox if

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it is painful to reach the box or step into it.

Fortunately, owners can help cats with DJD have a better quality of life.

Keeping cats lean is likely the best preventive measure.

“If you are carrying extra weight on your joints, that’s much more concussive injury every time you take a step, let alone if you run down the stairs and you’re the flabby cat with a belly,” says Dr. Elisabeth Snead, a board-certified small animal internal medicine specialist at the WCVM. When a cat is spayed or neutered, caloric requirements decrease significantly. Most people don’t adjust the amount of food they are feeding, and accordingly, feline obesity is a significant problem. Obesity rates in cats are between 35% and 60% depending on the region their owners live in. This can lead to arthritis or feline diabetes.

Your veterinarian may prescribe pain control medications or recommend supplements for joint health, such as glucosamine or chondroitin.

“Knowing what medications are appropriate in a cat is really important. We all take Tylenol when we have aches and pains, but it’s deadly to a cat. A cat can also have acute kidney failure pretty quickly with the use or overdosing of other types of commonly used pain medications, such as ibuprofen or Aspirin,” says Snead.

Not only are cats sensitive to many medications, each cat is an individual.

Your veterinarian will have to take into account the entire animal when considering treatment choices.

Medicating cats with arthritis is not as straightforward as dogs with arthritis because of the high incidence of feline kidney disease.

While it might sound counter-intuitive, exercise is good for cats with DJD. Cartilage changes can’t be reversed, but gentle exercise helps maintain muscle strength and prevents stiffness. For example, incorporating a tricky treat ball for meals may encourage movement in a reluctant pet.

Rehabilitation is an option that Penney feels is underused; she’s experienced success with underwater treadmill [exercise], laser therapy and acupuncture treatments for feline patients.

“I think it would be nice if more owners were aware it was an option,” says Penny, noting that rehabilitation can be part of the plan for any older animal, regardless of whether they have a diagnosed problem.

“It can give you some ideas how to keep them moving or keep them comfortable,” she says.

There are also ways to modify your cat’s environment. Ramps or steps may help your pet get to a favourite windowsill, or a heated bed might provide comfort to sore joints.

“Lots of it is environmental enrichment and that is the limit of the imagination,” says Snead.

“I definitely think degenerative joint disease is undertreated in cats because it’s unappreciated by owners and underdiagnosed by veterinarians. So can we all do a better job for our feline family members?

Yeah, we can.”

Gwen Roy of Edmonton, AB, is a secondyear veterinary student at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) and a wildlife biologist. Reprinted with permission from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine’s Companion Animal Health Fund (www.cahf.usask.ca).

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Guide to

PET OWNERS’ RESOURCES

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GUIDE TO PET OWNERS’ RESOURCES

KILLER BEAUTY

POISONOUS PLANT GARDEN EDUCATES STUDENTS, VETERINARIANS AND PET OWNERS

By Melissa Giese >>

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PHOTO: DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

ith over 400,000 plant species on our earth, it’s easy to forget that each individual species has its own characteristics, just like animals do.

In what we perceive as pleasant green surroundings, there may lurk deadly toxins for animals and people.

Fortunately, pet owners can unmask these dangers at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine poisonous plant garden.

“The garden allows veterinary students to become familiar with plants that might pose a threat to their future patients,” explains Lynsee Melchi, a third-year veterinary student and the senior student curator of the garden.

“Working in the garden has taught me what plants are available to what animals in each season. Once you become familiar with them, poisonous plants will catch your eye wherever you go.”

GARDEN-VARIETY THREATS Would you believe that tomatoes, kale and cabbage have a place in our poisonous plant garden? You can safely eat them, but know the risks.

Tomatoes are not poisonous when they are ripe, but the green ones as well as the leaves and stems contain solanine, a compound that primarily causes excess salivation and adverse gastrointestinal effects.

“Kale, cabbage and other Brassica plants contain substances that sequester iodine in the body and could contain nitrates if the plant gets stressed, for example with drought,” says Melchi.

“Iodine is important for thyroid function.

An individual who is hypothyroid might run into trouble if they have a kale smoothie for breakfast and lunch.”

FAMOUS KILLERS Have you ever noticed wide swatches of large plants with white flowers commonly found on hillsides in June? You are probably looking at a big patch of poison

hemlock, the plant used in the poison Socrates drank when he was put to death in ancient Athens.

“White snakeroot, which allegedly caused the death of Abraham Lincoln’s mother, is harmful to all animals that consume it, especially horses. In horses it primarily produces degeneration of the heart, while in other species it may cause neurological signs,” says Melchi. “The toxin tremetol is heavily excreted in the milk of animals that eat white snakeroot, thereby potentially poisoning their offspring or any humans consuming that milk.”

USEFUL, BEAUTIFUL AND TOXIC Some poisonous plants have useful characteristics—as long as you don’t eat them.

“Communities of old washed their dishes using Bouncing Bet, which contains soap-like compounds, and Scouring Rush, which contains silica,” says Melchi.

Many garden beauties are also poisonous.

“Oleander contains a potent cardiotoxin. It takes very few leaves to kill an individual. In the Southern and West Coast states, it is a very common plant,” warns Melchi. (Oleander is the red flower in the photo above.)

“Day lilies, along with Easter lilies and tiger lilies, can cause kidney degeneration and failure in cats very quickly, which will be fatal without immediate veterinary care.”

There are many more plants to learn about in the poisonous plant garden, which serves as an important educational tool for students, veterinarians and pet owners. Can’t make it to Urbana, IL, to tour the garden in person? Learn more at vetmed.illinois.edu/poisonplants.

From the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine: www.vetmed.illinois.edu

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BASIC TRAINING SIX TRICKS ANYONE CAN TEACH ANY DOG

Reading a hard copy of PETS Mag? Search YouTube for Kristin Crestejo to find all of her videos!

By Kris Crestejo, CDBC >>

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eaching your dog tricks and other entertaining behaviours can be highly beneficial and enjoyable for both of you. Spending quality one-on-one time with your dog can not only create a stronger bond between you, but it also will improve all-around listening skills and attention span.

I’ve spent years training behaviours to come up with a trick list that any person can accomplish with any breed of dog. Here are my top six picks — a few are accompanied by a video on my YouTube channel.

Just search for “Kristin Crestejo” on YouTube and you will find these and more than 100 other videos designed to help you train your dog safely and effectively.

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What you will need before attempting to teach a trick: • Yummy treats, cut up very small (you will use many when teaching a new behaviour).

• A clicker for faster results. Please visit this link (or search my channel for What is Clicker Training?) to learn what clickers are and how to use one: www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzQJZU6RwkU • A quiet environment free of distractions, so your dog can focus on the task at hand.

SIT PRETTY (DIFFICULTY LEVEL: EASY) Step 1 – Start with your dog in a sit position.

Step 2– Take a treat in one hand and hold it just above your dog’s nose while saying, “Sit pretty.”

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GUIDE TO PET OWNERS’ RESOURCES Step 2 – Reward when the dog reaches halfway, then quickly keep luring the dog all the way back to you (completing the circle).

Click and reward for finishing the circle.

Tips: Don’t try to get your dog to crawl really long distances on the first go. Reward for small movements and, with success, increase the duration of the behaviour.

TAKE A BOW! (DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM) Step 1 – Start with your dog standing on all four paws in front of you.

Step 2 – Show your dog that there is a treat in your hand and slowly put your hand near your dog’s nose. Move your hand down slowly, so it ends up just behind your dog’s front paws while saying “Bow!” Your dog should stretch down while not moving the front paws.

Step 3 – Click and reward as soon as your dog is in a bow position.

Troubleshooting: If your dog backs up whenever you begin to move your hand down, try cupping the treat in your hand and holding your hand on the ground.

Once the dog’s “elbows” hit the ground, click and reward.

Step 3 – When your dog’s front legs come off the ground, click and reward.

Trouble shooting: Your dog may jump to get the reward that you are holding above his nose; try lowering your hand until the dog is nibbling on the treat, and then slowly move your hand up until the dog follows it.

STAND UP (DIFFICULTY LEVEL: EASY) Step 1 –Begin with your dog standing on all four paws.

Step 2 – Take a treat or toy and hold it above your dog (out of reach) and say, “Stand up!”

Step 3 – As soon as your dog stands up (without jumping) and is only on his back paws, click and reward.

THE ULTIMATE BANG! (DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM)

Video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=_t1ZhZA4tRs

Step 1 – Teach your dog the sit pretty trick, but instead of saying “sit pretty,” give the cue “Stick ‘em up!”

CRAWL (DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM) Step 1– Start with your dog in a down position.

SPIN (DIFFICULTY: EASY) Step 1 – Begin with your dog in a standing position, and start to lure him clockwise in a big circle with multiple treats in your hand.

Step 2 – Take a treat in your hand and hold it in front of your dog’s nose, on the ground.

Step 3 – Drag the treat in your hand slowly across the ground so your dog follows it, and say “Crawl.”

Step 4 – Once your dog starts crawling to get the treat, click and reward.

Step 2 – When the dog is sitting pretty (on his hind legs), say “Bang!” and ask him to “Lie down.” Click and reward when the dog is down. Repeat until your dog starts to lie down whenever you say “Bang!”

Video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX6fWx8ckag Kris Crestejo, CDBC is a certified canine behaviour consultant and head trainer at Modern Canine Training in Langley, BC. www.moderncaninetraining.com.

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GUIDE TO PET OWNERS’ RESOURCES

REFERENCE CHECK

CLICK WITH CAUTION WHEN SEARCHING THE NET FOR PET INFORMATION

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ith so many websites, blogs and social media feeds out there focusing on pets and pet health, it can be hard not to get lost in a sea of data and options — some of which just aren’t that credible. PETS Magazine starts your search off with some key links; it’s not an exhaustive list by any means, but it’s a healthy start.

GENERAL INFORMATION ON PETS AND PET HEALTH Remember that your veterinary team is your best source for pet and pet health information. That said, there are many good websites out there worth a visit: PETS Magazine – Back issues filled with articles on pet health, written by veterinary pros. www.petsmagazine.ca Animal Healthcare– A reliable source for expert advice from the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association. www.animalhealthcare.ca or via www.canadianveterinarians.net

Vetstreet is a portal offering insightful articles on everything from pet adoption to coping with serious medical issues, all contributed by animal health experts. www.vetstreet.com The American Veterinary Medical Association also offers good advice for pet lovers. www.avma.org The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has a lot of great pet resources. www.aspca.org The University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine posts informative, reliable articles on their site. www.vetmed.illinois.edu/petcolumns

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Pets.WebMD.com is brought to you by the folks at WebMD (who know a thing or two about making good health information easy to find). http://pets.webmd.com

Check out the various rescue, shelter and advocacy groups listed below, some of whom also post insightful information for pet owners.

Also, many companies involved in the pet industry offer useful information. Check out Hill’s Pet Nutrition (www.hillspet.com), Presidents Choice (www.pc.ca/nutritionfirst), Purina (www.purina.ca), Royal Canin (www.royalcanin.ca), Pedigree (www.mypedigree.ca), Iams (www.iams.com), Hartz (www.hartz.com) and PetSmart (www.petsmart.com) to name just a few.

TWEEPS ON PETS: TOP TWITTER FEEDS Twitter brings the insights of a world of expertise and passion straight to your smartphone or desktop. We follow: @CanVetMedAssoc – Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA). @ASPCA – American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. @OntarioSPCA – Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. @petmd – From petmd.com, the web’s largest repository of pet nutrition and health information. @HumaneSociety – Official feed of the Humane Society in the U.S.

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GUIDE TO PET OWNERS’ RESOURCES ADOPTION, PROTECTION AND RESCUE There are many organizations at the local, provincial and national level who are engaged in these activities. These are some of the largest organizations with informative websites. Search for your local SPCA or humane society, as well as breed-specific rescue organizations.

Canadian Federation of Humane Societies www.cfhs.ca Alberta SPCA www.albertaspca.org British Columbia SPCA www.spca.bc.ca New Brunswick SPCA www.spca-nb.ca Northwest Territories SPCA www.nwtspca.com Nova Scotia SPCA www.spcans.ca Ontario SPCA www.ontariospca.ca PEI Humane Society www.peihumanesociety.com Saskatchewan SPCA www.sspca.ca SPCA St. John’s, NL www.spcastjohns.org Winnipeg Humane Society www.winnipeghumanesociety.ca You can also surf over to www.petfinder.com, a site chock full of pet information and searchable databases of adoptable pets in Canada and the U.S.

BREEDERS There are many breeders to be found across the country, and you want to make sure you find a reputable one. National breed clubs should be your first stop for information about a specific breed.

The Canadian Kennel Club, a not-forprofit national service organization that promotes the interests of purebred dogs and their owners, accredits breed clubs and has an extensive database on their website. www.ckc.ca Dog breed information is also available through the American Kennel Club. www.akc.org Check out the Cat Fancier’s Association for similar information about pedigreed cats at www.cfa.org or the Canadian Cat Association at www.cca-afc.com.

needs of professional pet sitters and pet parents. They aim to help the pet-owning public, those interested in pet sitting and professionals engaged in the in-home pet care industry by providing the tools and support to foster the success of its members. Additionally, pet parents can benefit from NAPPS’ free resources, including a disaster preparedness guide, tips on how to select a pet sitter and a nationwide referral service. www.petsitters.org

New Brunswick: New Brunswick Veterinary Medical Association: www.nbvma-amvnb.ca Newfoundland: Newfoundland and Labrador Veterinary Medical Association: www.nalvma.com Manitoba: Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association: www.mvma.ca Nova Scotia: Nova Scotia Veterinary Medical Association: www.nsvma.ca

PET FOOD The Pet Food Institute has been the voice of the makers of U.S. cat and dog food for more than 50 years. They work with industry members to educate the world about pet nutrition and health, the need to balance pet ownership rights with responsibilities and to maintain the highest standards of product integrity, safety and quality control. www.petfoodinstitute.org

Ontario: College of Veterinarians of Ontario: www.cvo.org

TRAVELLING WITH PETS

Québec: Ordre des médecins vétérinaires du Québec: www.omvq.qc.ca

Hitting the open road or jetting off to a distant land and want to take your pets with you? There’s a lot to know to keep them safe while complying with international laws.

Check out the Government of Canada’s travel site at www.travel.gc.ca for details on what documentation you need to take your pet abroad (or bring one with you into the country) and other travel tips.

Be sure to check out petfriendly.ca for a wide range of, you guessed it, pet-friendly accommodations across North America, as well as several articles well worth reading before you leave.

LOCATE A VETERINARIAN NEAR YOU Many provincial veterinary associations have directories online to help you find medical care for your pet: The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association also offers a portal to help you find a local veterinarian at www.canadianveterinarians.net.

PET SITTERS

Alberta: Alberta Veterinary Medical Association: www.avma.ab.ca

The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) is the only non-profit trade association dedicated to serving the

British Columbia: College of Veterinarians of British Columbia: www.cvbc.ca

Prince Edward Island: Prince Edward Island Veterinary Medical Association: www.peivma.com Saskatchewan: Saskatchewan Veterinary Medical Association: www.svma.sk.ca

IN THE U.S.: Check the American Veterinary Association’s (AVMA) website out for listings of all 50 state member associations' websites and phone numbers, at www.avma.org.

The American Animal Hospital Association’s pet owner’s resource website sports an animal hospital locator, as well as other great resources for pet owners. www.healthypet.com The American Association of Feline Practitioners website has a Find an AAFP Doctor feature, which lists Canadian veterinarians, as well. www.catvets.com

PETS Magazine offers these listings as a general guide only, and cannot vouch that all of the information on these sites is accurate, updated or reliable.

Opinions expressed by these sources are not necessarily the opinions of the magazine. Always ask your veterinarian’s advice before acting on any information you find from another source. And always visit www.petsmagazine.ca for back issues!

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GUIDE TO PET OWNERS’ RESOURCES

GIRTH OF A NATION WEIGHT LOSS A CHALLENGE BUT POSSIBLE IN PETS

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From the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association >>

TWO APPROACHES TO WEIGHT LOSS PRESCRIPTION DIETS There are two approaches to weight loss prescription diets, the first is the highfibre low-calorie density product. These provide less calories per bite. So the pet does not need extensive restriction of intake and thus will not beg.

The second type of product is a newer approach that utilizes feed components to accelerate metabolism, effectively burning calories faster. These products are of excellent palatability and provide, in some cases, a manufacturer-guaranteed targeted weight loss if fed exclusively. You need to speak

REMEMBER THAT YOUR PET RELIES ON YOU TOTALLY FOR THEIR HEALTH AND WELFARE AND OVERFEEDING IS JUST AS DAMAGING AS UNDERFEEDING FOR THEIR HEALTH!

with your veterinarian about which class of product is appropriate for your pet.

“Store shelf” versions of weight control food at the local pet food store termed “light” diets are good for maintaining weight loss or preventing obesity, but are not recommended for a weightreduction program.

FEEDING YOUR PET Three to four small feedings a day actually results in more energy loss (i.e., calories burned) than one or two large feedings.

You should feed your pet the required daily ration of food but divide it into three to four small feedings or as directed by your veterinarian.

At the same time, keep your pet out of the kitchen or dining room when meals are being prepared or eaten, since these tend to be the times that begging occurs and snacks are more likely to be fed to pets. Snacks and treats are probably the single most likely cause of obesity in pets and they account for the failure of most weight-reduction programs. All treats, including milk bones and table scraps, should be discontinued for the dieting pet.

An exception might be for a prescription diet snack that is very low calorie content that is prescribed by the veterinarian in some circumstances.

EXERCISE! In addition to following your pet’s diet, your pet may be prescribed a brisk walk at

least twice daily for 15 to 20 minutes. For cats, possibly two five- to 15-minute play times daily — but note this cat playtime is variable, since some cats resign early!

During the weight-reduction program, you should monitor your pet’s weight regularly. This involves weighing your pet on a weekly basis and then charting the weight loss on a graph. Weighing should be done at the same time of the day, preferably before feeding.

REASSESSMENT Pets should be reassessed once the desired weight loss has been achieved so that the pet can be changed from a reducing diet to a maintenance diet. Otherwise, your pet will continue to lose weight. Some of the new diets have intakes designed for weight loss but also intakes designed for weight maintenance so discuss this further with your healthcare team.

Once the ideal weight has been reached and to make sure your pet does not regain the lost weight, be sure to avoid in-between meals snacks, make sure your pet gets enough exercise daily, continue to chart your pet’s weight on a graph and feed a restricted-calorie diet. Regularly scheduled visits (e.g., every three months) to the veterinarian to monitor your pet’s health and weight may help prevent relapses.

Remember that your pet relies on you totally for their health and welfare and overfeeding is just as damaging as underfeeding for their health!

www.canadianveterinarians.net

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he single most important step in any weight-reduction program is the acknowledgement that obesity is unhealthy and that weight-reduction is necessary. Unless a caregiver is convinced that obesity is dangerous to their pet’s health, the commitment for weight reduction will be incomplete and the program will be doomed to failure.

The aim of any weight reduction program is to decrease the caloric intake (i.e., less food) and increase energy expenditure (i.e., more exercise). The first step in a successful weight reduction program is to have your pet examined by a veterinarian.

The reasons for this are two-fold: 1. To make sure there is no underlying medical reason for the obesity, 2. To make sure your pet can safely be put on a diet.

Once a veterinarian has examined your pet, it should be weighed and a goal should be set for how much weight is to be lost within a specific period of time. Ideally, your pet should be placed on a reducing diet (available from your veterinarian).

These diets are balanced rations that have all the necessary nutrients your pet needs, but less calories than full rations.

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GUIDE TO PET OWNERS’ RESOURCES

FOOD ALLERGIES

HOW ITCHING AND SCRATCHING MAY BE FOOD RELATED

By Kristina Cooper, RVT >> Food allergies may be manifested in signs such as redness of the skin, rashes, itching and hair loss. Areas of the body most affected are the paws, face, ears, groin and underarm areas. Dark staining of the hair on the paws, from excessively licking the inflamed itchy skin, may also be seen. Hot spots and chronic ear infections are also signs of a reaction. Food allergies may cause your dog to have all or just one of these signs, causing severe discomfort.

CAUSES OF FOOD ALLERGIES Food allergies may be caused by your dog’s reaction to carbohydrates (primarily wheat and corn products), but in most cases it is the protein source (mainly chicken, beef, lamb and egg) in the diet that causes the problem. In these cases the body responds to the carbohydrate or protein source as an invader, and launches an immune response that produces chemicals in the body that cause the allergic reaction. Food allergies can affect any breed, age and sex of dog and usually first appear at a young age, although food allergies can also appear later in life.

Left untreated, these allergies will cause a lifetime of discomfort for your dog.

TREATMENTS FOR FOOD ALLERGIES Food allergies are often treated by providing supportive care, reducing the

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discomfort with which your dog is coping and by modifying the diet. A course of steroids may be prescribed by a veterinarian to help decrease the reddened, itchy and inflamed skin by acting to settle down the immune system.

Antibiotics are sometimes given to fight any secondary bacterial infections that may have arisen from excessive licking and scratching. Antihistamines can be prescribed to decrease the allergic response. Some people find the use of omega-3 and -6 fatty acid supplements aid in the treatment of food allergies by decreasing skin inflammation.

In order to stop this allergic cycle, a new hypoallergenic diet will be recommended.

These diets are made with novel carbohydrate and protein sources that are not usually found in dog food (i.e., potatoes, rice, duck, kangaroo and fish etc.). These carbohydrate and protein sources are not recognized by the body as intruders, and therefore don’t cause an allergic reaction. Newer advances in the development of hypoallergenic food have included hydrolyzed protein particles, which are proteins broken down into smaller molecules, which also go undetected by the body.

These hypoallergenic diets are fed for a minimum period of eight weeks, during which time absolutely no other food or

treats are given. This helps by decreasing the immune system’s reaction by removing the source of the allergy, and further helps to determine that the food that was being fed was indeed the cause of the reaction. After the eight-week exclusion period, foods of choice may be added back slowly, one at a time over a five- to seven-day period, to see if an allergic response occurs. This helps to pinpoint the ingredient that was causing your dog to react.

Although food allergies can be frustrating for pet parents and cause discomfort for their dogs, there are successful treatment options available. If you think your pet may be experiencing a food allergy, consult your veterinarian for the most appropriate treatment available.

Kristina Cooper is a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) and proud member of the Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians (OAVT). She has previously worked in both small animal practice and a municipal animal shelter.

With a special interest in the relationship between animal and human health she is currently the Provincial Manager of the OAVT Public Health Rabies Response Program and an active One Health Initiative advocate. She can be reached by email at krizzteena@hotmail.com

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SIGNS OF FOOD ALLERGIES

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GUIDE TO PET OWNERS’ RESOURCES

SHOULD THEY STAY OR SHOULD THEY GO, NOW? TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH PETS

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or some people, pets are a part of our celebrations and are included in travel plans. While some pets are easy travel companions, others are better left at home in the care of a trusted friend or neighbour. Even if visiting your veterinarian is the most you travel with your pet, every owner should understand pet transportation safety.

When making travel decisions, it is important to consider your pet’s behaviour, health and daily needs. For example, if your destination will not allow you to spend time with Fido and include his daily exercise, then it is best he stay at home. As a general rule, most cats are more comfortable in their home environment and should probably stay home during family trips.

Taking your pet to the veterinarian for a quick check up will also help you decide if your pet is healthy enough for travel, especially if your pet will be travelling by airline. Your pet’s behaviour is also a deciding factor in allowing them to travel.

For instance, a playful and energetic puppy may not appreciate riding in a kennel for several hours.

Travelling by car is the most common way to transport pets, but many owners do not know the safest way to allow furry friends to ride in the car. Dr. James Barr, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, explained the best way to transport your pet by car.

“The best way to transport pets in a car is to restrain them in some way,” he said. “If you have a small dog or cat, then they should be placed in a pet carrier. They will be safer and less likely to climb in your lap and interfere with driving. Although this may not be feasible in larger dogs, there are a number of seat belt devices that can be used for dogs to limit their mobility in the car.”

In addition, it is also recommended to keep pets in the back seat to prevent them from being a distraction from the road. You may also consider inviting a friend or family member along to help watch the pets. On long road trips, this will allow you the opportunity to buy snacks or refuel while your pets are under the supervision of your friend.

It is common for pet owners to allow their dog to put their head out the window, but the reality is that this can be dangerous. Although Fido may enjoy the fresh air, he can potentially be injured by debris.

“There are a couple of problems that arise when a dog has his head outside of a moving car window,” Barr said. “The first is the possibility that something could hit them at high speed, such as bugs, sticks, or other debris. This is especially problematic for the dog’s eyes. The next problem is with the possibility that the pet could jump out of the window and severely injure itself.”

In addition to these safety tips, it is also important to never leave your pet unattended in the car. Having a friend with you

to help watch the pets while travelling will solve most dangers associated with leaving pets alone.

Although some veterinarians may not recommend allowing your pet to travel by airline, it is not impossible. “The most important thing when it comes to airline transport is to ensure your pet is healthy enough to make the trip,” said Barr. “Airlines generally require that you have a veterinarian sign a health certificate to prove your pet is healthy enough for travel.

If the pet is to ride in the cabin, then it will need to be calm enough to be carried through security. In the baggage area, your pet may get hot or cold, so the health of the pet needs to be good to enable them to withstand that.”

No matter the occasion, knowing how to safely travel with your pet is a must.

Whether you’re travelling by car or airline, it is important to first consider the health and safety of your pet.

College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University: vetmed.tamu.edu/pet-talk.

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GUIDE TO PET OWNERS’ RESOURCES

FASHION ACCESSORY OR TRAINING DEVICE? DETERMINING WHAT COLLAR IS APPROPRIATE FOR YOUR DOG

By Kristina Cooper, RVT >>

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urrently, there are many fashionable options and styles of dog collars available in the accessories aisle of your local pet store. It can sometimes be hard to decide on a colour, let alone the style of collar that will be appropriate for your pooch’s training needs. The most common collars available today include flat collars, slip collars and choke chains, prong/pinch collars, head collars and harnesses.

FLAT COLLARS Flat collars usually come in a variety of colours and patterns and are often bejewelled and studded to fit any pooch’s fashion style.

They have a buckle or clasp closure and are often used as an everyday neck collar, onto which you can attach your pet’s name tag and dog license. These collars are sometimes affixed with a quick-release feature to allow the collar to break away should your dog get caught on something. Successful training can be achieved using these collars with smaller dogs, or with dogs that don’t have a tendency to pull on leash while being walked.

SLIP COLLARS/CHOKE CHAINS Both slip collars and choke chains are used as training collars for dogs that can’t be managed on a flat collar alone. Slip collars are primarily made of nylon, while choke

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chains are made of metal; both slip over the dog’s head and are worn around the neck.

When the dog pulls on the leash, the collar will tighten around their neck. Correction is accomplished when the dog handler provides a quick pop of the collar, causing it to tighten — this lets the dog know that the behaviour is unwanted. The decision whether to use the nylon or chain version is based upon the individual needs of your dog. Slip collars and choke chains should never be left on after training sessions, as these collars can easily catch on things and choke your dog.

PRONG/PINCH COLLARS These collars are made of metal prongs which lie against your dog’s neck. When a dog pulls on the leash, the prong/pinch collar tightens slightly around the neck to allow the dull prongs to pinch the skin.

Prongs apply even pressure and can be adjusted so that all or only a few prongs are actively working, based on the needs of your dog. As with slip collars and choke chains, this type of collar should not be left on past the training session.

HEAD COLLARS These popular collars fit around your dog’s snout and close at the back of the neck. Head

collars work as a training collar by applying pressure to the back of your dog’s neck, instead of around its circumference. This pressure on the back of the neck causes the dog to instinctively move backward instead of continuing to pull forward. Head collars have a leash attachment underneath the chin with which the owner can re-direct the dog’s nose when needed to correct behaviour and re-establish their focus on the handler.

HARNESSES Harnesses are fitted to the body of the dog in front of and behind the shoulders. A harness helps give a handler control over the dog’s entire body. For dogs at risk of tracheal collapse due to excess pressure on the neck (particularly smaller breed dogs), or dogs that are strong leash pullers who are at risk of choking because they often require constant tightening of a neck collar (typically larger breed dogs), a harness is a great option.

All collars are readily available in many different sizes and colours to suit every breed of dog. Consult your dog trainer on what the most appropriate collar is needed for your dog’s training needs.

Kristina Cooper is a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) and proud member of the Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians (OAVT). She has previously worked in both small animal practice and a municipal animal shelter. With a special interest in the relationship between animal and human health she is currently the Provincial Manager of the OAVT Public Health Rabies Response Program and an active One Health Initiative advocate.

She can be reached by email at krizzteena@hotmail.com

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P E T

P R O J E C T S

RESCUE MISSION

A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY TO CARE wenty-two abandoned Golden Retrievers from Istanbul are now calling Canada their home.

Golden Rescue, one of the largest singlebreed animal rescue groups in Canada, has transported the dogs from Turkey to Canada in an operation dubbed Rescue Mission of Love — and the great news is that the rescue group is just getting started.

Approximately 1,000 Golden Retrievers in Istanbul have been abandoned, left on the street to fend for themselves or put into shelters as a result of economic uncertainty.

There are many homeless dogs in Turkey and not enough room in the shelters for all of them. Because there is no shelter euthanasia and few adoptions in Turkey, dogs either live out their lives in a shelter or are put on the streets or in the forests after they are spayed or neutered and given rabies vaccines. But Golden Retrievers don’t survive well on the streets.

They are not good pack animals and won’t fight back, so many are attacked by other dogs and their survival depends on people helping them.

And while many local residents will feed these dogs on the streets, the Golden is looking for something more — affection and stability.

Late last year, members of Golden Rescue’s board of directors personally funded a trip to Istanbul to witness the dire situation of these animals and upon meeting them, and the tireless shelter workers who have been caring for them, resolved to extend the boundaries of the organization’s reach and bring the Goldens to Canada for a second chance at life.

Upon arriving at the shelter, Viive Tamm, chair of Golden Rescue’s board of directors says, “We heard them before we could see them. Our hearts melted and we knew instantly that our mission had materialized.

The rescue effort in Istanbul is a natural progression for Golden Rescue’s work as we are called upon to broaden our reach throughout Canada and beyond our borders.”

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PHOTO COURTESY OF GOLDEN RESCUE’S RESCUE MISSION

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As a first step in the rescue mission, four goldens travelled from Istanbul to Canada in December, via Turkish Airlines and were quickly placed in the care of new, loving families. On January 14, 2016, 18 more Goldens arrived safely at JFK International Airport in good health, met by a convoy of Golden Rescue volunteers, who travelled from Ontario to New York to meet and bring home these gentle souls. Greeted with cheers, tears and goodie baskets filled with toys and treats, the Goldens were released from their travelling crates, one by one, into the loving arms of those who had been waiting anxiously for their arrival.

With names that harken back to an era of laughter and levity, these Goldens are called Bob Hope, Lucille Ball, George Burns and Rosemary Clooney. More typical names for the lucky arrivals include, Happy, Dumbo, Rosie, Adelle and Limon, to name a few. And while some of them may not understand English, they all instinctively knew, like all new Canadians, that they have arrived in a land of safety and freedom where they will be loved and cared for.

All the dogs are provided with complete medical examinations and behaviour assessments and in accordance with Golden Rescue’s practices, Goldens are placed with their forever families through a rigorous matching process.

“The time is now to rescue these helpless animals,” says Tamm. “We are committed to helping Goldens, regardless of where they live, realize a second chance to live with loving, forever families. And the Golden Retrievers in Istanbul are in urgent need of this chance.”

Golden Rescue has a plan and the resources in place to bring more Goldens from Istanbul to Canada on a frequent basis, and is seeking a way to fly them directly to Pearson International Airport from Istanbul, to mitigate travel-induced stress on the dogs. The organization is seeking advice and input from anyone interested in helping with this unique request and charitable mission.

For more information and regular updates about Golden Rescue’s Rescue Mission of Love visit www.goldenrescue.ca or www.facebook.com/goldenrescuecanada.

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