January/February 2014
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Articles 6
The Journey Continues
8 The Face That a Mother Loves 10 Hey Mom, Can I Have a Horse?
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12 Rudy’s Goodbye 15 January is Train Your Dog Month
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16 It’s Okay, My Dog is Friendly! 18 Midwest Animal ResQ 22 Cats and Gum Disease 24 Breed of the Month 28 Chip’s Adventure 30 Private vs Group Dog Classes
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32 Pawzzle 34 Pet Services Directory 28
Happy New Year! Dear Readers: Welcome to the first issue of 2014! We are excited to start the new year with an awesome issue. We want to start by saying congratulations to Wayside Waifs! Wayside Waifs has been helping partner pets and community for 70 years! Did you know that January is National Train Your Dog Month? We wouldn’t dream of having children and not sending them to school, so, why have pets and not train them? January is a perfect month to start with a new training session. Check out the article on page 15. Don’t think your dog needs training? Take a minute to read the article on page 16, “It’s OK, My Dog is Friendly!” Teaching your dog to be well-behaved is important. Take this responsibility seriously and watch how your pet approaches others. Have you ever thought about fostering a pet? The poem “Have You Ever Wondered” on page 5, may start you thinking about the difference you can make. If fostering doesn’t work for you, consider donating time or supplies to a shelter or rescue group. January is a great time to start giving back to a local animal group.
Publisher Barbara Riedel barbara@metropetmag.com Editor/Production Manager Dan O’Leary editor@metropetmag.com Magazine Layout ROI Marketing 816.942.1600 • roi@kc.rr.com
The article “The Face that Mother Loves” highlights the love we enjoy when we help a puppy or kitten, or adopt an furry animal into our family. And, “Rudy’s Goodbye” is a heartwarming story about a pet saying goodbye. If you have lost a pet, we encourage you to contact Dr. Raphel at www.losingyourpet.com, attend his monthly support group, or visit Rolling Acres, memorial gardens for pets www.visitrollingacres.com. Our featured rescue group is Midwest Animal ResQ (MARQ). Starting from humble beginnings in 2009, this group has saved thousands of pets. The philosohy of giving pets a solid foundation to start a life with a new family is one of the reasons this group is successful. If you are interested in supporting this group visit www. midwestanimalresq.org/ Check out the article titled “Mom, Can I Have A Horse?” How many of us asked that question? How many of us have been asked that question? This is a great article about the cost and time involved in taking care of a large four-legged friend. And, don’t forget to read the most recent chapter in Chip’s Adventure, learn more about the Pug breed, and challenge yourself with the Pawzlle. Happy New Year — we are looking forward to an awesome year!
Barbara Riedel, Publisher
Advertising Sales Ad Sales: 913.548.1433 Deals of the Week deals@metropetmag.com Contact MetroPet PO Box 480065 Kansas City, MO 64148 Phone: 913.548.1433 Fax: 913.387.4313
Contributing Authors Marsha Bjerkan Carrie Bermel Mike Deathe Pat Hennessy Pawlean Journe Heddie Leger Mary Sellaro Cheryle Waterman Belle Wead
Publishing Policy: Articles printed in the MetroPet Magazine express the opinions of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the formal position of MetroPet Magazine. Acceptance of advertising does not necessarily constitute endorsement by MetroPet Magazine. Articles: Readers are invited to submit articles for consideration for publication to editor@metropetmag.com. All materials are subject to editorial review. © 2013 MetroPet Magazine. All rights reserved. Request reprint permissions at info@metropetmag.com. MetroPet Magazine is owned and published by ROI Marketing Services, all rights reserved.
Have You Ever Wondered By Belle Wead
Have you ever wondered what life would be like if you... Exercised more. Drank less. Learned something new every day. Had a better work/life balance. Volunteered. Saved more money. Were better organized. Read more. Finish to-do lists. Have you ever wondered what life would be like if you… Indulged in yourself. Went after what you want. Found something new to love. Sent love someone else’s way. Figured out what you wanted out of love. Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to save a life? That’s what fostering a pet feels like. There are volunteers to help you find a pet that’s right for you in your home. You can do all of the things on the lists above when you foster the right pet.
Belle Wead is the owner of Best Friends Pets 13008 State Line Rd • Leawood, KS 66209 • 913.498.1397 Peculiar, MO 64078 • 816.984.5481
www.metropetmag.com | January/February 2014
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The Journey Continues By Marsha Bjerkan
needed. She seems to know that she is there to make their lives better.
How Is My Little Girl!
Andie and I have been visiting the residents every Friday afternoon for two months. I have noticed that several of the same residents are always in the common area when Andie and I arrive. As we walk toward them, they will say to each other, “Andie’s here!” I will walk up to each resident and say, “Andie wants to say ‘hello’. Is that okay?” The overwhelming response from not just one of the residents, but all of them is a resounding YES. While visiting each person, Andie will lovingly place her head in a lap and let the person slowly extend a hand out to pat her head. Andie is patient and gentle with each resident resting her head and letting them pet her for as long as
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The residents’ reactions to their excitement when they see Andie has brought back memories of when she and I would visit my mom. When Andie and I visited mom, (Meema) at The Forum, Andie couldn’t wait to reach my mom’s apartment. Always, when my mom would open the door, she had this unique smile when she saw Andie. She would say, “How’s my little girl, honey? I love you!” My mom would bend down, wrap her arms around Andie’s neck and give her a loving kiss. You could actually see the love they felt for each other by the looks in their eyes, and of course, Andie’s tail was wagging a million miles a minute. It is just like this for the residents that wait for Andie to visit at The Forum. The residents have the same look in their eyes when they see Andie walking toward them with her tail wagging wildly. It is as if Andie is sharing the same love for them that she shared with Meema.
Sharing a Journey
For me, I am sharing the same journey that Andie is experiencing. She and I both loved our Meema with all of our hearts. Meema brought us joy and unconditional love. She was there to embrace us and provide us with love, care and tenderness. Andie and I visited our Meema every day of her life at The Forum. It was a ritual for us that we treasured, and one that we were vigilant at keeping for two years until the day Meema died. The importance of Andie’s and my journey with certifying her to become a therapy dog and specifically to choose The Forum is to honor Meema and to honor the residents who, perhaps, don’t have family or friends that visit.
Visiting Those Who Have No Family
There were many times when we would be visiting Meema and she would say that a particular resident never had visitors. Meema would ask if Andie and I would visit that resident. Well, of course, we wanted to! Meema would take us to the resident’s apartment,and we would sit and listen while the resident talked and smiled at Andie. Many times those residents would open up their hearts and share pieces of their lives that had been so dear to them; perhaps events in their lives they normally didn’t share with everyone. Andie made the difference. She approached them with a simple love and unconditional trust. She would lay by their chairs and let them lay their hands on her head
while they shared the stories of their lives. Each of us has the opportunity to make a positive difference in others’ lives. Andie’s journey as a therapy dog has made a significant difference in my life. She has taught me unconditional love, the art of patience and how to love, care and always help another person.
Learning and Giving
Andie’s journey continues with me by her side. Every day I learn more about love and giving through the eyes and guidance of my Andie. Our journey continues with an awareness of how the two of us can make a positive impact on others by listening to their stories and providing our love and support as they, too, continue their journey through life.
www.metropetmag.com | January/February 2014
Marsha Bjerkan became involved in the Pets For Life Therapy Program in 2013 because of the experience she had visiting her mother at The Forum with Andie. She found it so rewarding getting to know the residents and most importantly being with her mom. After her mother died, Marsha decided to take it to another level. She certified her dog, Andie, through Pets For Life. Andie and Marsha began visiting the residents at The Forum once a week starting October, 2013 and are loving every minute of it! If you want to know more about their wonderful experience with Pets For Life, please e-mail Andie and Marsha at bjerkan@ aol.com
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The Face that a Mother Loves by Pat Hennessy
“Oh, how darling,” exclaims the friend of a new mother while looking at her newborn baby swaddled in a blanket. “Isn’t that the funniest video,” a co-worker is telling her teammate while showing a YouTube clip of a baby kitten being tickled and watching the kitten’s funny face reaction. Part of the reason we gravitate toward animals as companions is because they are small versions of their ancestral kinfolk, and as humans we have it in our DNA to love and protect juveniles. So, puppies and kittens appeal to our human need to nurture. The benefit we get is returned tenfold, because they provide us with a lot of unconditional love.
Different Attractions
Sometimes we are drawn to heart-wrenching stories of animals who have been abused or to animals who have sustained injuries or been born with birth defects, as we feel compelled to help them overcome these obstacles. Animals who have had amputations or have limitations, those who have survived natural disasters, or the ones who have been saved from dog fighting facilities, puppy mills, or hoarding incidents — seeing these cases tug at our heart strings. Some people are drawn to unique looking animals such as the Chinese Crested dog (the partially hairless version looks fun and interesting, like something created by Dr. Seuss) or the Shar Pei (a fur-ball of wrinkles who grows into her skin and has a muzzle as soft as a horse’s). Other people may gravitate toward the animals who are less likely to find loving homes, such as solid black dogs and cats, senior dogs and cats, or dogs that show their beauty from within (the Ugly Bettys — for whom there is a national contest each year). We find these animals to have character and be adorably cute or sinfully silly 8
MetroPet Magazine | January/Februrary 2014
A Special Attraction
Fans of specific breeds of dogs, cats, birds, bunnies, horses, etc., love their favorites for many reasons: • Visual appeal — large, small, long noses/short snouts, long/short hair, coloring, etc. (you’ve seen the photos of pet/owner look-alike contests); • Behavior traits — working ability (herding, sporting, tracking/search-and-rescue, guarding livestock, performing service or therapy work, etc.), temperament (docile/good with children or elders, smart/easy to train, quiet/less barky, alert/more likely to bark, etc.); • Lifestyle/Health Considerations — non-reactivity to allergies (some breeds may be better than others, for example Cornish Rex cats, Poodles and some Poodlemix dogs), smaller animals that can be handled easier by people with disabilities, etc.; or • Life experience — working with a particular breed or breed class that is familiar can provide comfort and confidence in the partnership. Many purebreds evolved by mixing other breeds to enhance skills for hunting or endurance, improve temperament, or alter size. A recent trend in breed mixing introduced Labradoodles and Goldendoodles in the hope to give Labrador and Golden Retriever fans who suffer from allergies another option. Puggles were also an experiment to reduce health issues in Pugs. Whatever your desire (or even if you don’t know) — the shelters/rescue organizations are full of wonderful “designer” breeds.
Family Companion
Then we have people who don’t have any preconceived notion of what they want and it doesn’t matter to them.
They just want a companion to add to their family. A great place to look is within your local community at shelters or with rescue groups (and you can browse PetFinder.com to see what is available in your area). There are many wonderful animals to choose from — all sizes, shapes, colors, and personalities. These unions can be a match made in heaven because the inner dog or cat is just waiting to come out — once they find their forever home.
Consider Your Lifestyle
It is important to consider your lifestyle when adopting an animal — as this is a long term commitment. Even after doing your homework to determine which breed or breed mix seems like a good fit for your family, you may be faced with a few surprise traits (while Baxter’s individual personality shines through). All is not lost, however, if your fearless Terrier has a bit of separation anxiety or your laid-back Lab wants to chase the cat. You don’t need to decipher the DaFido Code; you simply need to start training from day one and engage your precious new family member in the art of learning appropriate behaviors — the key is repetition and reward.
A Love Connection
No matter what you desire in an animal companion, whether you have a search and rescue hero or a Grumpy celebrity kitty, your dog or cat loves you like no one else on the planet. Your dog doesn’t care if you didn’t get the promotion you hoped for and your cat doesn’t care if you have a scar or a birth defect — they LOVE you anyway. The bond we build with our animal family members is a truly remarkable interspecies connection. Why we love our animals so much is summed up by George Eliot, “Animals are such agreeable friends — they ask no questions; they pass no criticisms.” Pat Hennessy is the founder of N2paws, LLC, an organization that provides a holistic approach to companion animal care through behavior education, energy work, and positive training methods. Pat is a Level 2 TTouch® practitioner, CPDT, ACDBC, and member of the IAABC, IAATH and AWA. You may contact N2Paws via email pat@n2paws.com, phone 816522-7005, or visit the website www.n2paws.com.
Helping you solve your companion animal problems with techniques that are simple to learn and easy to use.
Call today 816.522.7005
Give a gift to a dog less fortunate. Make a donation to help MOGS Dogs.
www.mogsrescue.rescuegroups.org Behavior & Wellness support from a certified TTouch practitioner & CPDT
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TTouch Reiki Alpha-Stim Doga Whole Pet Positive Training
www.metropetmag.com | January/February 2014
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Hey MOM, Can I Have a HORSE? How many times have you heard, Mom, can I get a horse? (Or a pony). I promise to take care of him. How many children yearn for a horse? Always asking, begging, bribing and pleading with their parents to get them one. As a parent, you probably are thinking you would love to grant your child his or her wish. A horse would make a wonderful pet for them. Not only that, but the kid can learn many valuable life skills — just as I did! As a horse owner you end up developing many strong values. Discipline, responsibility, confidence, partnership, caring, achievement, and the list goes on and on. While riding, you learn balance, trust in an animal, and you become stronger physically. A horse can have a positive influence in your childs’ life. You as a parent have to lay the groundwork for all this to happen. There are some steps to consider before taking the plunge. You want to make this a pleasant experience for the child and horse.
Start on Riding Lessons I took riding lessons for a couple of summers before my parents considered buying a horse for me. The lessons gave me the experience and opportunity to ride and build my confidence in handling the horse.
Choose the Right Horse Get to know the different breeds and their temperaments. Small children can do well with Welsh ponies or Shetland ponies. Older do better with a full size horse like the Quarter Horse, Arabian, Paint, etc. The small pony fits a young child well. He or she can put their legs around the pony, making a better fit. They are easier to control while riding and if they should take a tumble, they don’t have far to go. Look for a horse with a good demeanor. If your child is young, look for a pony with some age, 5 to 10 years is a good starting point. That way, they can ride without being led around. There is such a thing as the “rule of twenty.” The age of the child plus the age of the pony should add up to 20. The cost of a horse can range from a few hundred dollars to many thousands. Do due diligence before buying a horse.
Boarding If you own your own land, you might have to build a small lean-to or barn. If you don’t own land, you will need to find a reputable stable. 10
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There you will find a stall and pasture. You will also find that you either pay for the care and feeding of your horse, or you do it yourself. What’s this going to cost? It’s really hard to say because there are so many factors involved after making the initial purchase of the horse. Let’s start breaking down some of the costs of horse ownership.
Stabling Fees One of the primary costs for horse owners is the monthly stabling fee. If you own your land or farm you can bypass this expense, but we all don’t have that luxury. Monthly fees vary widely. Expect to pay more in urban areas than say out in the boondocks. Stables with indoor arenas will cost a lot more than the basic stables that provide nothing more than food and shelter. With that in mind, the fees can range anywhere from $200 to $500 + per month. Make sure when inquiring about stabling you understand the terms of service. Some stables will either require you to feed and clean or charge you extra for those services.
you might need 4 trims a year that’s $100 annually. If you decide to shoe your horse, the expenses are far higher: the average cost runs about $80 per shoeing. Shod horses should be checked every other month.
Other Costs There are quite a few other costs that will come up should you decide to purchase a horse. Try to ensure you will have enough money on-hand should unseen expenses come up. The approximate expenses within this article are intended to give you a brief overview of the cost of a horse assuming the best circumstances. Your actual costs may be lower or higher depending on location, and how much of the above you can provide yourself. A horse is a serious investment, so the cost of owning a horse should never be underestimated or overlooked. If you can afford to own a horse I truly doubt you’ll ever regret making the decision.
Food Costs If you are stabling, the cost of food is usually included in the monthly rates. If you own your land or farm, you will need to consider the costs of hay and feed. A horse usually can eat half a bale of hay a day at between $2 - $3 a bale. Then, you have to feed some form of grain, so assume you feed 3 pounds of sweet feed a day at cost of $7.50 per day.
Veterinarian The veterinarian costs of owning a horse can be significant. If your horse stays healthy, then the yearly vet expenses will generally run you around $300, for shots, the vet call, teeth filing, etc. But if your horse should become sick, then you can quickly figure fees between $500 and $1,000 for one case.
Farrier Costs Farrier/Shoeing expenses are more predictable. If you keep your horse unshod the average cost of a foot trimming will run around $25 to $30 per trim. You have to then keep them trimmed, depending on your horse’s natural hoof condition. Assuming that 11
Rudy’s Goodbye by Susan Sanders I’d been a psychotherapist for 30 years when the following paranormal experience happened with me and my dear dog companion, Rudy. As a psychotherapist, I always tried to keep an open mind about what people shared with me. But, I also maintained a healthy skepticism. However, after my experience with Rudy, I became a believer in many things I’d scoffed at before.
A Signal
Rudy came into my life shortly after my own mother passed away. In my grief, I began taking long walks to work out my many thoughts and feelings about her. On one of these walks, I met an elderly man with the most unusual looking dog I’d ever seen. His dog was low to the ground on stubby paws. I noticed this dog had flowing, luxurious red fur and a flaring tail. I stopped the man to ask what kind of dog he had. “Why,” he said, “my dog is a long-haired dachshund. He’s blind but he follows me by my scent.” I talked to this man and pet his dog for several minutes. A peace came over me. It occurred to me that perhaps my deceased mother was giving me a signal. Maybe I should get such a sweet, unusual dog for myself!
I felt a burst of energy and that very day I began my search for a long-haired dachshund, preferably red. Within two weeks I found him! Prince Rudolph.
Susan Sanders, former psychotherapist, and Rudy.
He was a regal pup, with amber colored, almond shaped eyes, and long, gorgeous red fur. And, he had a huge, upright flowing tail I later learned was called a flag among longhair dachshund fans. He had a swagger when he walked. Soon after he became a member of my family, he started a practice that he maintained until the very end. Each morning, within a half hour of my letting him outside, he would surprise me with a quick, rapid lick of my ankles as a greeting for the day. It was special because he never licked my ankles any other time, only in the morning. Prince Rudolph, or Rudy, as I called him, was often busy in the yard, checking the bushes for rabbits. He was very patient. If he ever saw a rabbit run under the fence, Rudy would sit there for as long as it would take, waiting for the rabbit to return to that very spot. He was a hunter. Rudy had a distinctive, soulful yet rich, single wolf howl he’d make whenever I left the house. It was his way of saying “goodbye.” Rudy was my dear companion for almost 12 years.
Just Not Right
One morning, Rudy had trouble getting out of the house. He could not walk easily. I scooped him into 12
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my arms and checked his legs. Nothing was visibly wrong yet something was very wrong with him. He was panting, and I knew he was in pain. Immediately, I took him to the vet’s office to have him examined. The veterinarian checked him out and said, “I think we need to take an x-ray.” It turned out there was a large mass that needed to be biopsied. Within forty-eight hours it was clear that Rudy had cancer. It had spread and a specialist said the prognosis was very poor.” It’s hopeless,” he said. I took Rudy in my arms. He could eat but he was panting, shaking, and his bodily functions were shutting down. For his sake, I needed to put Rudy to sleep and let him cross the Rainbow Bridge.
A Sad Day
other side, so you can play and chase rabbits and not have this pain. He listened intently and paid close attention as I continued, “So, Rudy, honey, I have two requests to make. I want you to greet me and the rest of my family when it’s our turn to cross over. And, Rudy, in the meantime, I want you to give us a sign you’re okay once you’ve crossed over. I know Rudy was completely attuned to my words and understood. Then, I gave him a grilled hot dog to eat, which he gobbled with much gusto, licking my fingers after the hot dog was gone.
The Wolf Howl!
The vet came in and administered the first shot to relax Rudy. After a moment the second shot which took Rudy out of this earthly world was given. My family and I left in tears
That was a very sad moment, making the decision to end Rudy’s life. Everything was happening so fast. He’d been slowing down in recent months, but I attributed that to his being 12 years old. I certainly did not think he was dying. But when the vet said it was cancer, I thought back to several incidents that took on new meaning. His lack of enthusiasm for chasing that rabbit; his refusing to jump at a balloon; his sleeping through the last few days. When the decision was made to put him to sleep, I wanted Rudy, my Prince Rudolph, blessed by a clergyman. I carried Rudy on a pillow and took him into the church. After the blessing, I took Rudy back to the veterinarian’s office for his last shot.
Crossing the Rainbow Bridge
Before the vet came in with the needle, I looked into Rudy’s soulful eyes and said, “Rudy, you have been a tremendous burst of joy in my life. You’ve made my family laugh many times through the years. And, I’ve always appreciated your good morning greetings. Now I am sending you to the www.metropetmag.com | January/February 2014
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and went home. It was late afternoon. We all sat around crying as we shared our memories of Rudy. None of us felt like eating. We soon all went to bed. It was a very sad night. As I was crying in bed, I heard a “wolf howl” coming from the kitchen where Rudy used to sleep! I bolted upright in bed, trying to be as still as possible to hear anything else. Family members rushed into my room asking in hushed, excited whispers, “Did you hear that?” We all heard Rudy’s “wolf howl.” No other dog in the neighborhood made that sound. And, it came from inside the house. It only happened once, but I knew it was Rudy saying “goodbye.” He was giving me the sign I’d asked for. I fully expect to see him again someday.
Tell Us Your Story This story was sent to Nancy Piper after she published her own story about One Eyed Jack. She invites others who have had contact with a companion animals after their death, to share their stories with her at Nancy.Piper@ birch.net, or mail them to, Nancy Piper, 12200 N. Crooked Road, Kansas City, MO 64152. Stories will be considered for the book Nancy is compiling of companion animals contacting their person from the afterlife.
Backyard Beasts Are Coming Backyard Beasts are coming to the Metropolitan Lawn & Garden Show February 6 - 8 at the American Royal Center. Danny Conner, reptile expert and owner of Reptile Adventures in Texas, will be displaying creepy crawly creatures that you just might find in your backyard under a rock, fallen tree or in the brush, depending on where you live. His stage program and exhibit includes poisonous and non-poisonous snakes, a variety of fourlegged reptiles, and turtles, including a 100+ pound alligator snapping turtle. Conner’s daily programs will showcase the reptiles and their impact upon the environment. It’s an educational program that the entire family will enjoy. Garden Show In addition to Backyard Beasts, the Garden Show features Chris and Peyton Lambton stars of HGTV’s Going Yard, and hundreds of exotic flowers at the KC Orchid Society’s annual show and sale. 14
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The Metropolitan Lawn & Garden Show, Kansas City’s largest display of garden products and supplies, has over 100 exhibitors ranging from landscapers and power equipment to water gardens and patio decor.
The Pet Pavilion Pet owners won’t want to miss the Pet Pavilion, an area featuring vendors with a variety of pet products and services.
Come Join The Fun! The Show is open Friday and Saturday from 10am 8pm, and on Sunday from 10am - 5pm. Admission is $10 for adults and is free for children 12 and under. Save time and money on discounted tickets at www.metrogardenshow. com. Attendees at the Metropolitan Lawn & Garden Show also get to see the KC Remodeling Show for free.
January Is National Train Your Dog Month!
~ Please Join the APDT in Celebrating National Train Your Dog Month! Find a Trainer Located Near You ~ Increase the Bond Between You and Your Dog by Heddie Leger The Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) promotes For information about National Train Your Dog Month or the caring bond and relationships between people the Association of Pet Dog Trainers: Mychelle Blake, President and CEO and their dogs. The organization works to increase MBlake@apdt.com public awareness of dog-friendly training techniques. Unfortunately, there are many thousands of dogs that are For more information, visit www.apdt.com relinquished to animal shelters due to lack of training or due to owners not knowing how to deal with behavior Heddie is a Certified Humane issues. Educator and member of APDT, APLB, APHE and NHES sharing a Where to Find Trainers? lifelong passion of helping children Often owners are at a loss as to finding a reliable and the elderly learn manners resource to help them. The APDT has designated the reinforcement with their pets month of January as National Train Your Dog Month to through the PawZone In-Home bring awareness to the importance of socialization and PetSitting and The DogSpot Training Center. training. More importantly than all, the goal is to inform the public that training your dog can be simple and enjoyable!
National Train Your Dog Month!
January has been selected as National Train Your Dog Month due to the fact that so many dogs and puppies are adopted and brought home during the winter holidays. Within a few weeks, the adorable new addition to the family becomes a challenge to live with and the shelters begin to fill. The goal of National Your Dog Month is to help these new pet parents start off the New Year with their newest family member in the best way possible.
Happier, Healthier Lives
The APDT hopes that the dog owners, shelters, and professionals in the pet care community will visit the event website (www.trainyourdogmonth.com), to learn more about how easy and fun training can be. “It is the APDT’s belief that a better understanding of dog behavior can lead to happier, healthier and more harmonious households for humans and canines.” www.metropetmag.com | January/February 2014
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It’s Ok, My Dog is Friendly! by Mary Sellaro
One of my favorite things to do is attend pet events with my dogs. I enjoy having my dogs in social settings that are pet friendly. This past year, I attended a large, local pet event and after walking around I decided to sit down and have something to eat. I put my dog, Colt, on a down stay and about halfway through my hotdog, I heard rapidly approaching feet and narrowly missed having a very large dog in a hat grab my hotdog out of my hand. Colt moved slightly, looking worried, but did not get up.
My Dog Loves Everyone
I turned to the dog, looking to see if there was a human at the end of a long leash. The dog’s human half was just standing there staring at me and said, “Wow, your dog didn’t move. My dog is friendly. He loves everyone. He also loves hotdogs.” I looked down at the dog, now sitting, drooling, looking up at me and furiously wagging his tail. In the commotion, his little hat had become off center, so I fixed it for him and stood up. There were so many things I wanted to say to this woman with the dog, some of them not very polite. However, as a dog trainer, my goal was to hopefully educate not alienate, so, I kept our conversation very short and mentioned a few things about long leashes and how it is really not a good idea to let your dog just run up to people. It is better to use more discretion when out in public. I handed her a business card and walked away. There was no apology or seemingly any concern on her part of how serious this situation could have become.
Oblivious to Her Dog’s Behavior
I saw her later in the day, once again oblivious to her dog’s behavior. Our previous conversation obviously hadn’t had any impact. Should I have been more direct or borderline rude to get the point across to her? It would be very easy to blame the dog in this situation. However, it is the human part of the equation that needs to be educated on common sense. It is interesting how the simple phrase “my dog is 16
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friendly” is perceived by different people. The person saying it is using it as a statement of fact. Translation, “Although my dog is rushing towards you and your dog, either on or off leash, don’t worry, he won’t harm you.” The person on the receiving end has little or no say in the matter, and usually not enough time to react to diffuse the situation.
The Human Greeting
When an oncoming “friendly” dog is met with hostility or resistance to interact, the dog’s human is often puzzled. They truly do not understand why someone would not want to meet or visit with their wonderful pooch. The fact is, there are reasons why people do not to want to interact or have a strange dog meet theirs: Some people simply do not want to be bothered. On leash aggression, their dog does not like or is fearful of other dogs — particularly dogs running up and getting in their personal space without warning. Fear of disease that could be transmittable between dogs. The dog might be older, have a painful physical ailment (such as arthritis), or be recovering from surgery.
A Growing Trend
The growing trend of intolerance to dogs being handled by humans without any regard for other people’s rights is becoming parallel to the public’s prejudice of aggressive dogs. The pleasure of being able to have our dogs’ company in the community is a privilege and not an entitlement. Simply put, people have the right to walk their dogs or be in dog friendly places without the fear of being accosted by well-intentioned people with friendly dogs. Keep the following tips in mind to help maintain a good relationship with all dog lovers and nondog lovers: •W hile walking keep the dog by your side, within touching distance, on a relaxed but controlled leash, and out of other people’s way.
• Avoid using a retractable leash; stay off your cell phone; and pay attention to your dog. • Do not allow your dog to approach or greet people uninvited. If someone expresses a desire to meet your dog, the dog should stay calm and sit to be petted. (Jumping up, licking or pawing must be discouraged, even if the person says they don’t mind. It is not fair to the dog to be allowed to do this with some people and not others.) • Dog-to-dog meetings on leash need to be kept short, calm and with enough distance for a comfortable interaction. Ask before approaching. Never let your dog run up to another dog regardless how friendly they appear. (Observe the other dog’s behavior, if the dog is out of control or appears aggressive or fearful, say “No thanks,” and move on.) • Bring disposable bags with you to pick up after your dog, every time. There is nothing which will make a dog more unwanted anywhere than leaving piles of feces around for people to step in. • Barking needs to be checked, as it can make people fearful and implies a dog is out of control. • Keep your dog on leash unless the area is specifically zoned for offleash use. • A “friendly” dog and an attentive human is a step in the right direction for dogs to be welcomed in public and in social situations. www.metropetmag.com | January/February 2014
Mary Sellaro has been training dogs since 1990. She has taught group and private lessons from puppy through advanced. Mary has also worked with dog owners on behavioral issues, including aggression. She developed and implemented a training class program for Retired Greyhounds as Pets. Mary has been the temperament test evaluator for the Children’s Mercy Hospital’s Pet Pal Program since 1997. Mary is now the Director of Training for Pooches Paradise Daycare and Resort in the Waldo area of Kansas City. Mary is a certified American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. She can be reached at 816-361-3388.
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Saving
by Carrie Bermel In a state intolerably named “The King of Puppy Mills,” it may be surprising to know that animal rescue groups in Kansas City can get ahead at saving all the abandoned and neglected pets. One local animal rescue knows that it cannot save them all, but the lives it does save are the ones it feels need it the most.
Erin’s Midwest Animal ResQ (MARQ), a foster-based animal rescue in the Kansas City metro, has changed the lives of many dogs, cats, pigs, and goats — you name it, and they have probably saved them. The person most responsible for saving those lives is Erin Morse, MARQ’s President.
MARQ Is A Success Morse took over MARQ in 2009, after a brief stent of fostering for other rescue groups. She had some difficulty in adopting from prior rescues, with little or no communication. Coming from a customer service background, she strove to run a rescue in which the business model focused on a very positive experience for the people, as well as for the animals!
ONE FURRY FRIEND AT A TIME Since 2009, Morse has grown her rescue incredibly fast. Having had thousands of really cute dogs to adopt helped, but it is her passion, dedication and drive that have drawn her fan base to her. The question to be asked is what has made MARQ successful? The answer to that is not quite as simple as one would think. Success can be defined in many different ways and to each volunteer, fan, friend or family member the answer will be different. One of the many reasons MARQ is successful is because it is a foster-based animal rescue with the majority of the dogs being fostered at the MARQ headquarters home in Holden, MO. This gives people the ability to get to know the dog as a family member, which allows the rescue to uniquely match the animal with a Forever Home. While in foster homes, rescued pets are given the opportunity to interact with other animals and people, so MARQ gets to know the dogs’ personalities in a relaxed environment.
A Sanctuary For some of the puppy mill survivors, or those petrified of humans, Morse has given them a sanctuary that is exactly what those abandoned souls need. “When I first got Mollie, all of her ribs were showing and she would flinch away every time I was near her. She has now put on quite a bit of weight and follows me everywhere! I was never one of those people who loved having pets, but now I can’t imagine my life without my little baby! I feel as if she has rescued me as much as I have rescued her!” said MARQ adopter, Kelli Martin. A story such as Martin’s is just one more reason why MARQ’s fan base increases daily.
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On the quest to continue to grow MARQ, Morse joined forces with Lori Beam, President of Doghousing, Inc. Beam’s passion for fostering really blossomed after she started fostering for Morse a couple of years ago. “Fostering for MARQ has been the most rewarding, painful, misunderstood, fantastic thing I have done in my adult life leading me to start Doghousing, Inc., a foster support organization to guide others through this lifealtering experience to save a life and change the world, one dog at a time,” Beam said.
A Foster Program Doghousing Inc. is responsible for helping people who are interested in fostering by matching future foster parents with dogs that will best fit their household. Beam said, “Fostering is an important part in the rescue process. It is the bridge from an abandoned, scared, ill, or neglected animal to a place of security and confidence making them ready for a Forever Home. In the foster home, pets are assessed for their personalities to ensure they are placed in an appropriate home. Fosters provide love and initial training, giving the rescue dogs the best opportunity to fit in and prosper in a family all their own.” MARQ has truly found that giving these pets a solid foundation before going to their forever home is part of what makes them successful, and a big reason almost all of their placements are permanent. MARQ has also had their fair share of unlikely success stories. The day before she was set to be put down, Morse rescued a beagle from a local Kansas City shelter. After almost 2 months in foster care, her family found her on a Craigslist post that Morse had created. Ron Lacy, www.metropetmag.com | January/February 2014
the beagle’s owner, e-mailed Morse asking if the beagle responded to Bailey. After several e-mail exchanges, Morse knew it was his dog. “Every time I walk through the door and hear Bailey ‘bugle’ her ‘welcome home,’ I thank [Erin], Annette (foster mom) and everyone else for finding her and taking care of her and getting her home!” said Lacy.
Finding Pets and Returning Them According to the Humane Society of the United States, they estimate that six to eight million dogs and cats enter animal shelters every year in the United States. Simply spaying or neutering one dog, helps reduce the number of animals that enter the animal shelters across the United States. Not to mention, micro-chipping is the best thing any pet parent can do for an animal, in the likely event that the pets gets lost. Even if someone thinks a pet will not run away, accidents happen. This is one reason why Morse microchips all her adoptable pets. If someone finds a pet and brings them to a local vet to be scanned, that pet can be reunited with its family almost immediately so that it does not have to spend the night at the animal shelter. While the Internet helped the Lacy family find their beloved Bailey two months later, Facebook has helped MARQ find homes for hundreds of pets and is yet another reason why they are so successful. The first thing that Morse does when she gets a new guy (or girl) is post a picture of them on her Facebook page. Regardless of that pet’s condition, she shows everyone what is coming into the ResQ. The best part for the pet and her fans is watching the transformation, which is often times remarkable. 19
Morse gets animals from all over: local shelters, abandoned pets, even puppy mill closures. The condition in which some of her dogs come to her can be quite alarming. MARQ has opened its arms to dogs with almost every kind of medical condition you can imagine. From serve burns, to broken bones, MARQ gives the dog the best medical treatment possible. All are given the care they need, and deserve, to give them happy and healthy lives.
Left to Right: Erin Morse, Carrie Bermel and Lori Beam
Before a special needs animal is adopted, Morse is upfront about the costs involved and
makes sure the family knows all that she knows so that potential adopters have realistic expectations for the care of the pet. Each dog, before it is adopted, is up to date on shots, micro-chipped, and spayed or neutered. As many followers of MARQ have noticed, MARQ thrives on taking difficult cases. Over the last few years, MARQ has had two-legged, three-legged, heartwormpositive, blind, deaf, mangy, pregnant, and senior dogs. The best news? They all get adopted because of their time spent with Morse or their foster parents. Often times, Morse is asked how she picks the dogs that she saves and her response is, “After doing this for so long, I just get a feeling and know which ones will work with my pack at home.” It is an agonizing process to choose those that she can save, as often she can be their last hope. Sadly, there are more dogs in need, than spaces available in local foster homes. With some of the more challenging cases where medical treatment can be extensive; Morse relies heavily on her supporters, because she does not receive any government funding. From time to time, you will see requests on Facebook asking for donations to help with heartworm treatment, surgeries and even items from their Amazon wish list. No matter the circumstances, her fans always pull through for her. Earlier this year, MARQ was faced with the task of finding a new location, having outgrown their prior home. On April 1st, they started the Chewy Challenge to help raise funds to purchase a new home for MARQ. Chewy, the rescue’s “spokes-dog,” is a “ syndromatic” long-haired Chihuahua, and is loved by all of MARQ’s followers. In just eight days, MARQ was able to surpass their fundraising goal, just by people sharing and talking about the Chewy Challenge on Social Media. Most amazing about this achievement is the sheer volume of people that donated, in small denominations, to add up to such a substantial amount! Before the Chewy Challenge launched, The Dullea Linscott Fund decided to donate to several animal rescues in 2013, as the fund recognized the need to
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defend the defenseless. After researching several rescues in both Kansas City and Branson, MO, the fund decided it would be best to concentrate donations to the team of individuals at MARQ who were dedicating their own time and money to really make a difference in the lives of animals of all breeds and types in the Midwest. Without The Dullea Linscott Fund and the MARQ Army, as her fans have been called, moving to their new facility would not have been possible. “Just reading one day of posts on their social media sites will amaze anyone of their dedication and capabilities. I’m just grateful I could be a small part of it,” said Lisa Linscott.
Working a full time job, in addition to running MARQ, she dedicates her free time rescuing animals in need. With her MARQ Army, dedicated Board of Directors and the passion to save more furbabies, nothing will stop Erin’s Midwest Animal ResQ from conquering what they set out to do. For more information on ways to support MARQ, volunteer, donate or foster, please email marqarmy@ midwestanimalresq.org. Carrie Bermel is a Minnesota native who moved to Kansas City to be with her boyfriend. After being introduced to Erin Morse, she began volunteering for Erin’s Midwest Animal ResQ and is now the Fundraising Director. Carrie has 3 cats and 2 dogs. She loves spending her free time with her boyfriend, furbabies and friends.
Fundraising events, such as the Chewy Challenge, do not happen very often. Throughout the year, MARQ also hosts smaller events that allow its fans to participate in ways that are fun. Their most well-known event is the ResQ Reunion where past adopters, volunteers and fans can join the MARQ crew for a day of relaxation and reunion. Other events include a Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Fundraiser, Hamburger Mary’s Hambingo, Putting for Pups Golf Tournament, Corkscrews and Canines Wine Tasting, Food Drives, and much more. In 2012, MARQ was able to raise a little over $6,000 during their events, and in 2013, they have raised more than $14,000. Coming up in 2014, MARQ is kicking off their fundraising events with their BarQ After Dark Gala Fundraiser. For more information, visit: www. barqafterdark.com. Truly, the real success of MARQ is Erin Morse. www.metropetmag.com | January/February 2014
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Cats and Gum Disease by Cheryl Waterman, CVPM
Question: hat is the No. 1 disease seen in general veterinary W practice?
Question: hat’s the most under diagnosed and W untreated disease seen in veterinary medicine? Let me give you a clue, the answer is the same for both questions! It is periodontal disease. Unfortunately, periodontal disease affects 85% of all cats older than three (3), according to the American Animal Veterinary Dental Society. Yet only about 1% of affected cats receive proper dental care, according to
the AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) Compliance Study. And, unfortunately, the diagnosis and control of this disease is often the ONE BIG THING that can make a difference in your cat’s overall health and well-being.
Your Responsibility Your first responsibility, as a good cat owner, is to make certain that your veterinarian is doing a thorough and complete oral assessment during your cat’s annual or semi-annual wellness exam. He or she should be able to give you an assessment ranging from Grade 1 through 4, as to the level of dental disease in your cat’s mouth. Number one being the mildest gingivitis to number four being extreme periodontal disease with a need for extractions. If your veterinarian is not checking your cat’s mouth, ask him or her to do it, and to give you some type of assessment.
Huge Part of Overall Health You may ask “why is this such a big deal?” It’s a “big deal” because periodontal disease plays a huge part in your cat’s overall health. It can have a strong negative effect on not only your cat’s ability to eat pain-free and his breath, but on his or her essential internal organs, such as heart, kidneys and liver. Unchecked plaque in your cat’s mouth (as in your own) allows harmful bacteria to flourish and overgrow, which causes periodontal disease. These harmful bacteria enter the bloodstream through lesions in your cat’s gums. And the worst thing about it is that it doesn’t always take the presence of advanced disease for this to take place. Of course, once in the bloodstream, these bacteria travel throughout the body, and can have an extremely harmful impact on your cat’s organs. Kidney disease, heart disease and liver disease are all things we want to avoid, if at all possible. 22
MetroPet Magazine | January/Februrary 2014
Life Changing Appointment To illustrate my point that dental health is so important, I want to share a story that Dr. Schomacker shared with me. As we all know, cats are extremely stoic animals, and do not show symptoms or pain, even when they may feel really badly. This particular patient was new to our clinic, and in fact, had not seen a veterinarian in quite some time. The owner apologized for her kitty’s grumpy behavior, saying that he used to be great, but since he’d gotten older he was getting very grumpy. (By the way, we don’t look at old age as a disease.) Dr. Schomacker wasn’t concerned, she’s used to unhappy patients. However, she wasn’t able to examine him without using a little gas anesthesia. Once she was able to proceed with the exam, and began the examination, Dr. Schomacker, started at the tip of his nose by opening his mouth. There she found that he not only had severe periodontal disease, but 8-9 teeth needed to be extracted. (A panoramic x-ray would show us exactly what was going on beneath the gum line and clarify any questionable need for extractions.)
The Next Appointment The owner felt badly that she hadn’t known the cat needed the procedure, and promptly made the appointment for the dentistry and extractions. The procedure was done, and the owner was scheduled to bring her cat in for a follow-up exam. Upon seeing that this kitty, which had been totally untouchable, was coming in for his follow-up post dental appointment, Dr. Schomacker was somewhat concerned.
Cheryl Waterman was the Hospital Administrator at the Cat Clinic of Johnson County and is a long-time cat lover. She was with the Clinic for over 13 years. In 2007, she received the Certification in Veterinary Practice Management (CVPM) designation. She is a member of the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association and the American Animal Hospital Association. If you have questions about your feline furry friend, contact the Cat Clinic of Johnson County, 913.541.0478 or visit www. catclinicofjc.com
We really don’t like to have to anesthetize a patient for just a follow-up. However, when the owner arrived with her kitty and Dr. Schomacker went into the exam room (expecting the worst), Mr. Grumpy had turned into Mr. Sweetie. He was walking around the room with his tail up, and immediately walked over and began rubbing against Dr. Schomacker’s legs. The difference in his attitude? He was no longer in, what must have been, horrendous pain! She was able to examine his mouth with no problem whatsoever.
Don’t Delay The above story speaks for itself. I cannot stress this point enough, if your kitty hasn’t had a thorough oral exam in the past year, do him or her a favor, make an appointment and get the cat into your veterinarian as soon as possible. You will thank yourself, and your faithful companion will be very grateful that he or she isn’t in pain any longer. And, most importantly, your cat will be living a healthier, happier life. www.metropetmag.com | January/February 2014
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Meet the Breed
January/February Pet of the Month The Pug is a delightful addition to most any family. However, finding the right dog takes an investment of time including reading, planning, research, and a taking a close look at your family living style and daily routine. It is important to realize that a young puppy will require more time at the outset for housetraining, obedience training, socializialization, and puppy booster vaccinations. Many people think they want to include a young puppy in their families without even considering the benefits of an older dog. There are many older Pugs that would love to be a part of your family, if a young pup is not a good fit for you right now.
The Pug is a Member of the Toy Group If you are not familiar with this group of dogs, it is important for you
The PUG
to know that although they may be small in size, they are prone to large personalities and tough attitudes that many people desire and adore. Dogs in the toy group as a whole make great companions and are well suited for apartment dwellers or those living in the city without much space, inside or outside. Due to their smaller size and manageability, they make great lap warmers, and can be easier to handle and train than larger dogs. Families with small children under the age of three should be warned that a smaller dog might not be the best option because the unpredictable behavior and quick actions of excited children can be too much for a smaller dog. However, this is not a rule of thumb. There are many smaller dogs that live very well with children. It is important to be objective about the individual dog’s
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MetroPet Magazine | January/Februrary 2014
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personality and temperament when making a decision, as smaller dogs can become aggressive towards children due to fear of their actions.
Origin of the Pug The Pug is thought to have its origin in East China. Their history goes back centuries, with their root beginning to be believed to be around 400 years BCE. They are believed to have been originally bred during the Shang dynasty. Their sole purpose was to be the lap dogs of wealthy rulers. One of the earliest documented reference to Pugs is dated in the year 551 BCE, when, Confucius, a famous philosopher described them as short-mouthed, short-legged, short-coated dogs.
Compatibility and Care.
The Pug in general is good with dogs, cats and children. However, as with any other breed, it is best if they are raised with them although they are very adaptable. Pugs are larger in bone structure and hardier than many toydog breeds. They can withstand and even enjoy rough play, as long as it’s supervised and doesn’t get out of control. However, the Pug is not designed to be a jogging companion. Due to their compact and well-muscled physic, they are not fond of running long distances. They have a tendency towards gaining weight, but are usually solid, active little dogs. Their little twisted tails make them very unique and endearing. The ideal weight of a Pug is no more than 20 pounds. The Pug is a charming, fun-loving clown of a dog, that also takes well to training. They are lively little dogs with an undeniably lovable, affable personality, bred for their wonderful dispositions. They are happiest when with their familes. They are very good looking dogs with a smoothcoat that comes in shades of tan, gray and black. A black mask accents their cutely wrinkled faces. The Pug’s facial wrinkles, especially the deep nose roll, must be cleaned daily simply by wiping out the dried drainage and dirt around wrinkles and eyes with a dampened cosmetic sponge or baby wipe. You will need to make sure to thoroughly dry the wrinkles so they don’t mildew, crack or become infected, a condition known as “swamp face.” The Pug is an easy wash-and-wear care pet. Their short coat does shed, but grooming needs are minimal. Brushing the smooth double coat on a weekly basis with a rubber curry brush to remove dead hair and daily brushing with a soft bristle brush will minimize your Pug’s shedding done year-round. Bathe as needed with a gentle dog shampoo. Please do not forget to trim the nails every week, and brush teeth daily -- with a vet-approved pet toothpaste. Many problems can be avoided by these simple daily care routine.
The breed was ranked second worst-affected by this condition out of 157 breeds tested. Pugs, like other short-snouted breeds, have elongated palates. They can be prone to what is called reverse sneezing that causes them to quickly (and seemingly laboriously) gasp and snort. These sneezing episodes are generally not harmful. A simple massage to help the dog relax, to the dog’s throat or covering its nose to help it breathe through its mouth can often shorten a sneezing fit. Due to the fact that Pugs have big eyes that protrude from the face, they are prone to eye injuries. Pugs can develop corneal ulcers, pigmentary keratitis and distichia (extra eyelashes that cause irritation). If you are interested in finding a well-balanced, healthy pug consider contacting a reputable breeder. Reputable breeders will invest the time and money to check for genetic defects and do not breed animals that possess these traits. They also will socialize their puppies, know their puppies well, and can help you find the right personality to fit with your family and lifestyle.
AID ANIMAL HOSPITAL 816.363.4922
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• Full Service Veterinary Care • Stem Cell Therapy • Acupuncture • Laser Therapy • Surgery • Dental • Boarding
Health Conditions A common issue among Pugs and other breeds with short noses is eye prolapse. It can be caused by a trauma to the head or neck, or even a choke collar or tight leash. A harness should always be used on these types of dogs. Hip dysplasia, an abnormal formation of the hip socket, affects this breed to a high degree. www.metropetmag.com | January/February 2014
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8343 Wornall Rd, KC, MO • aidanimalhospital.com 25
The PUG Finding the Right Pug for You It is a great idea to start your search by checking the website of the Pug Dog Club of America. Clubs of this type maintain a code of ethics that requires members to never sell their puppies to or through pet stores, and it maintains a breeder referral service. It also maintains information and tips on finding a healthy, well-bred puppy. A more reputable breeder will be active in the national breed club and/or a local club. The dogs should regularly participate in some form of organized canine activities, such as showing, obedience or therapy dog programs. Any dog sold should always come with a written contract guaranteeing that the breeder will take the dog back if at any time during it’s life you cannot keep the pup. Do not be afraid to ask a breeder to provide documentation that your prospective puppy’s parents were checked and cleared for hip and elbow dysplasia by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and for eye problems by the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF), or for hip clearance by the University of Pennsylvania (PennHip).
A reputable breeder welcomes your questions about temperament, health clearances, and anything else about the dogs. They will also ask you with questions about what you’re looking for in a dog, what you are expecting, and what kind of life you will provide. A good breeder is knowledgeable about the breed history and can readily explain to you why one puppy is considered pet quality while another is not. A reputable breeder will also be open and discuss what health problems affect the breed and the steps taken to avoid those problems. Warning: If any breeder tells you these tests are not important or does not think the tests are needed because there have never been problems in the lines, that her dogs have been vet checked, or any of the other excuses bad breeders have for skimping on the genetic testing of their dogs, walk away and don’t look back. Don’t be charmed by those cute big eyes of the pup in your arms. It is very important to avoid any breeder who seems interested in how quickly they can unload a puppy on you, and whether your credit card will go through. Please keep in mind that purchasing from a website, sight unseen is never a good idea. It is entirely possible you may not receive exactly what you expected. If you are wise and take your time, research the breed, consider your lifestyle, and not limit yourself to a particular age of dog, you will be rewarded with a charming companion for at least a decade or more. You have selected a wonderful breed of dog to add to your family that will bring many years of joy, comfort and companionship. If you are wise and take your time, research the breed, consider your lifestyle and not limit yourself to a particular age of dog, you will be rewarded with a charming companion for at least a decade or more. You have selected a wonderful breed of dog to add to your family that will bring many years of joy, comfort and companionship.
Other Quick Facts • Th e Pug is among the largest of the Toy breeds. •H e’s lively and loves everyone, and his alert nature makes him an excellent watchdog. • Th is breed snores and snorts, a by-product of his flat face. Learn to think of the noise as a lullaby. •A mong the Pug’s rich and famous admirers are King Louis XIV; Josephine, Empress to Napoleon; Queen Victoria; the Duke and Duchess of Windsor; and fashion designer Valentino have been among the Pug’s rich and famous admirers. 26
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RESOURCE Wayside Waifs
3901 Martha Truman Road Kansas City, Missouri, 64137 • www.waysidewaifs.org community for life by providing temporary shelter for homeless companion animals, educating the public, and developing partnerships, collaborations and strategic alliances.
How Long Have You Been in Business? For 70 years, since 1944. Services Your Organization Offers: Pet Adoption, Admissions, Animal Rescue, Shelter Veterinary Services, Vet Preceptorship Program, Humane Education, Volunteer Opportunities, Foster Care Program, Behavior Enrichment, Bark Park, Pet Memorial Services, and the Whiskers & Wags Retail Boutique.
What Makes Your Organization Different? Wayside Waifs is Kansas City’s largest and most comprehensive “no kill” pet adoption campus. With 44 acres of green space, Wayside is able to provide a complete circle of care to every animal from the moment it walks into our building until it finds a forever home
Reasons Your Clients Come Back? Tradition. Wayside Waifs is a name people know and trust in the community. People view Wayside Waifs as the benchmark for animal shelter care. When adopting a pet, you know exactly what you are getting because of the amount of time and resources Wayside Waifs invests in the animals. Wayside strives to bring out the best in every animal so the pet becomes its their very best within its new family.
What Are the Benefits of Your Organization? Wayside Waifs partners pets and
December Pawzlle Answers 1
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EclipseCrossword.com
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Chip’s
NEXT ADVENTURE HERO by Heddie Leger
I was not too sure of what to make of all this fuss and celebration. We thought we were just doing what needed to be done to do the right thing, and everyone was talking and acting as if we had done something really, really special. They kept calling us heroes, and had a huge celebration with the man, who happened to be named “Todd,” leading the way. They put us on top of the fire truck, and we led a parade down main street in the town of Savannah. I thought that was a really pretty name. It sounded more like a person than a city, but that was the city the man that we saved was from. There were bands, horses, wagons, and thousands of people all waving, throwing us kisses and cheering. I just did not know what to think about all of this. The parade ended at the city hall. The fire fighters led us off the fire truck to a stage on their shoulders. MawMaw was beaming she was so happy. She was happy for lots of reasons. First, we had survived a very scary experience; second, we had found each other recently; third, she now had a family that 28
Recap December 2013 - They said we were heroes, but it did not feel like it. We had been very scared and had done the only thing we knew to help the man. They said that that is what heroes do; they serve others in their time of need with no thought of themselves. The man told them how we kept him warm, breathing, and more of what we had done. I have never much thought of myself as a hero or one to serve others, but on that day everything changed. Penelope, Allen, Stephanie, and Robert decided that if we could do these things naturally, we were pretty smart dogs and could continue to serve others, if we wanted to. The police, EMTs, firefighters, veterinarian, and everyone involved agreed. loved her AND not only that they kept calling her a Service Dog Hero. Todd went to a microphone and started to talk. He thanked everyone for being there. He thanked the medical people, police, and everyone that had anything to do with the experience of helping us. Then he turned to us, gave us a big hug, and another man handed him a key with a gold ribbon on it. He mentioned how MawMaw and I had kept him alive and how we did it. He also mentioned that he had no idea how we knew what to do, but he was glad we did what we did, or he might not have been present today, AND then he put the ribbon with the gold key around our necks and declared that day in honor of us as heroes. He gave us the key to the city. Now honestly, I have no idea what that means, but I do know that it was a very high honor reserved for only a few special individuals. I was
MetroPet Magazine | January/Februrary 2014
learning that doing the right thing to help another person was a very, very good thing to do. Forgetting our own fear and thinking and focusing only on how to help Todd get through the night seemed the most natural thing to do at the time, but we had no idea of the results of our actions. The mayor said a few kind words; the fire chief thanked us for our heroic actions that helped his team do their jobs better, and then the best thing happened, a little girl ran up to us and gave us each a big hug and kiss. Todd introduced her to the crowd as his daughter. She was about the age of Penelope. There were tears and cheers as the little girl crawled into her daddy’s arms. I think today I learned what a hero is, but it seems to me that anyone can be a hero to another just by being caring, taking a moment to share your time to help, and looking out for other people. To me that is
HERO: a person who is greatly admired for acts of bravery or great courage
QUOTES OF THE MONTH “ The simple act of caring is heroic.” - Edward Albert
“ When we quit thinking primarily about ourselves and our own self-preservation, we undergo a truly heroic transformation of consciousness.” - Joseph Campbell
what a hero is and does. We found out today that we will be going to school to become service dogs and therapy dogs. If you are wondering about the difference, I am too. I am going to study up and in my next episode, I will let you know what MawMaw and I find out. In the meantime, hug those you love; enjoy your family; and be a friend to someone in need. You will find the reward to be worth more than anything in the world, and you could save a life. Heddie is a Certified Humane Educator and member of APDT, APLB, APHE and NHES sharing a lifelong passion of helping children and the elderly learn manners reinforcement with their pets through the PawZone In-Home PetSitting. You can reach her at 816.820.5829.
“ The full measure of a man is not to be found in the man himself, but in the colors and textures that come alive in others because of him.” - Albert Schweitzer
STORY DISCUSSION TIPS:
1. What did people do to celebrate? 2. How do you think Chip and MawMaw felt? 3. What was the name of the man Chip and MawMaw saved? 4. Who came to see the man at the parade to surprise him? 5. How could you be a Hero to someone?
HUMANE EDUCATION ACTIVITY:
Do you know anyone that has been called a Hero? Learn what that person has done to help others. Read about what firefighters, EMTs and paramedics do in their jobs.
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Private vs Group Dog Training Classes by Mike Deathe
Many dog training businesses offer both group and private instruction. Clients can be confused on which is the best option for them and their dogs. This article not only explains the differences, but also gives you some things to consider when choosing a training option for you and your dog.
Group Classes Let’s start off with group classes. Most are taught on an ongoing basis, usually once a week for a period of time, commonly 6-8 weeks in duration, (mine last upwards of 20 weeks but you gotta call me to get details). The classes tend to focus on basic commands and are geared toward basic obedience. This is because there are multiple dogs attending the class, and there is usually not time to get too specific on personal issues or requests. These classes tend to be a lower cost — because there are multiple students in the class the trainer can charge less per student.
Private Sessions Private training is usually (but not always) held in your home so that the trainer can see issues where they happen. This gives the trainer and the client the opportunity to work on specific skills and problem behaviors, where they occur naturally. These sessions also allow for more one-on-one time with the trainer. They also allow for time to ask questions, and to practice specific techniques with the trainer individually. Keep in mind, since the trainer is coming to you and the training is one-on-one, the cost of these sessions can be quite a bit more expensive.
Which One to Choose? Using this information as a foundation, the main difference or the best way to choose the right option for 30
MetroPet Magazine | January/Februrary 2014
you comes down to what you are trying to accomplish. If you have specific problem behaviors or issues you want to address or correct with your dog, then private sessions are probably your best choice. If you want to learn basic obedience or train preventatively (before problem behaviors crop up) then a group class is most likely the best choice. Now let’s look at one of the common mistakes folks make when choosing a training option for their dogs and situations, and some alternative considerations. • Decision Based on Price — People consider nothing but the price, not what they want to accomplish. Many times folks will try to force a round peg in a square peg only because it is cheaper. They expect to deal with dog-dog aggression in a group class because the cost is less, and they think 6 weeks of training is better than a 1 hour, private in-home session. • Benefits of Private Sessions — A private session provides one-on-one time and allows the trainer to teach the client individual techniques needed to improve behavior. Then, the client can practice in between sessions. The trainer can offer guidance and follow up in future sessions. •D isadvantages of Choosing the Wrong Type of Classes — Choosing the wrong type of session can create a bad experience for everyone involved. If a dog with specific issues, like barking, signs up for a group class, that dog will bark continually throughout class creating havoc not only for you and the trainer, but also for the other dogs in the class. In some cases, dogs like this are asked to leave the class, which helps no one. •D efined Expectations — Trainers should fully discuss and define their expectations for the group class upfront. If this communication is missing, the client
might not know what is expected and what is a not acceptable. For the clients in this group class, this may cause a problem. Ask what happens if your dog is disruptive in a group class? What are the options? Some trainers will credit the amount spent for a group class for a private session, if they feel that is the best choice for the dog and owner. Then, the client can always sign up for a group class once he gets some of the basic training skills and leadership down.
Summary In the end, this decision to take private vs. group classes, as well as all others in life are solved with communication and realistic expectations! As I have said before there are not magic pills or Jedi mind tricks in dog training; there is only hard work, consistency, and frequency of practice. So the moral to this story is: ask a ton of questions and make sure to talk to at least 3-5 trainers before making up your mind on method, cost and which trainer you will choose for your furry four-legged friend.
Mike Deathe is an avid pet lover who found his passion as a dog trainer. Since 2008 he has trained hundreds of pet parents on how to live with their companion animals. He writes the Keep It Simple Stupid dog blog (K.I.S.S). Deathe authored The Book of Pee and Poop, and Forever Home — Dog 101 and How to be a Better Shelter Volunteer. Follow Deathe’s blog at @http:// muttzmembers.blogspot.com/ or the website @ www.kissdogtraining.com.
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Chip’s Corner
PAWZZLE
Answers to this Pawzzle can be found in the Breed of the Month story on page 24. 32
MetroPet Magazine | January/Februrary 2014
DOWN 1. T he type of brush that works best on their smooth coats is a rubber ____________ brush. 2. F ind the right dog takes an investment of ___________. 4. Their eyes can also develop corneal __________. 6. A skin condition Pugs can develop if not properly cleaned is called _____________ face. 8. I mportant thing a puppy will need. 9. What type of behavior would make a small dog nervous or uncomfortable? 10. Another trait Pugs are prone to causing shortness of breath or gasping is called reverse ________________. 11. They make great lap ________________. 12. A reputable breeder will be able to tell you about the breeds ______________.
ACROSS 1. S maller dogs in the toy group may not be good around small _____________. 3. When small children play with a dog, it should always be ___________________. 5. C ommon issue with short nosed dogs is eye ___________. 7. They can withstand some __________ play. 13. A reputable breeder will also check parent dogs for hip and elbow _________________. 14. Although small in size, they are known for their large ___________________. 15. I t is NEVER a good idea to purchase a pup through an online _____________.
16. T he Pug is thought to have originated in ____________. 17. D ue to their small size, their are well suited for _____________ dwellers. 19. I t is also important to have enough time to __________ your pup. 20. I t is very important to look for a _______ breeder. 23. P ugs are larger in __________ structure than most other breeds in the toy group. 24. What is needed to ensure the health of your pup? 27. P ugs have a smooth __________ coat. 30. What dog group is the Pug a member of?
18. A s a whole dogs in the toy group, including the Pug make great _________________. 21. They are believed to have been bred during the ___________ dynasty. 22. A reputable breeder will screen and check for _____________ clearances. 24. Q ueen who owned Pugs. 25. F amous designer who owned Pugs. 26. They are also sometimes known for their tough __________. 28. What famous philosopher described Pugs as short-mouthed, short legged and short coated? 29. Always consider your ________ when adding any dog to your family.
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