June 2010
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10
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26
Feature Articles 5
Music: The Effects on Dogs
28 Dog Waste Removal Take care of the presents your dog leaves behind.
The type of music played can impact how dogs react.
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The Truth About Dogs and Seizures
In Every Issue
Learn more so you can protect your pet.
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4 Publishers Message
Hike Story
Take time to enjoy your animal companion.
Raising awareness for veterans is this soldier’s reason for hiking.
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Training Tips: Watch Me!
17 Cat Horoscopes Check out your cat’s horoscope!
Getting Fido to watch you is the first step in training.
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21 Dog Horoscopes
Local Pet Events
How well do you really know your dog?
Join us at Dog-n-Jog and Pets in the Park and Lake.
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Celebrate Independence with Calm
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Have some fun and complete this pawzlle!
Fourth of July may be fun for us, but not for your animal companion.
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April Showers, May Flowers, June Bugs!
30
Learn More About a Breed: Dachshund
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Finding a Stray: What do you do? Did you find a stray? Help reunite strays with their owners.
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Upcoming Events Check out these upcoming events.
Learn more about this special breed.
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Ask the Vet My cat doesn’t use the litter box. What now?
Protect your pets from bugs with these tips.
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Chip’s Corner
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How Cute is Your Pet? The winners of this month’s contest.
When Pets Go Missing Be prepared with a first response protocol. J UNE 2010 • MetroPetMag.com
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Publisher’s Message
TAKE TIME TO ENJOY... your animal companion — it’s important. Sometimes it can be as simple as taking a walk, playing in the house, or just petting your furry friend. It all counts. Just a little bit of attention can sometimes prevent unwanted behavior. So take the time, and enjoy your friend.
THE ENVIRONMENT AND OUR PETS In this issue of MetroPet, you will find an article about pests and how to prevent them from getting to your furry friends. There is a new product for tick removal called the tick key. Just a few dollars spent to purchase this product might save you and your pet needless agony. There are several noteworthy articles in this issue: Hike for Heroes — Troy is walking 7,000 miles across America and coming to the Kansas City for several days, see page 9. Summer is a peak time for lost pets, take time to read the articles about lost pets found on pages 22 and 26. Planning ahead could prevent a loss, or help you find a pet. Take time to read the articles about how pets react to music and fireworks on pages 5 and 14. Being aware of how pets react to music, noise and fireworks can help you enjoy a healthier lifestyle. Cat lovers take note of the Ask a Vet article on page 30. And dog lovers, learn life coaching and training tips in the article on page 10.
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT OF METROPET In this issue you will many valuable coupons. Use them to save money and show your support of our advertisers. Please remember to tell them, “I saw your ad in MetroPet.” This will help them grow and, in turn, will support our growth. We continually hear from readers about how much they love the magazine. Thank You! We greatly appreciate your support.
Staff & Contacts 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
Advertising Sales Eric Novak Ad Sales: 913.579.3815 eric@metropetmag.com
Webmaster Michael Justice 913-645-2597 mike@marathoncomputing.com
Contributing Authors Mike Deathe Shelia Dodson, DVM Pat Hennessy Heddie Leger Sarah Estlund-Mullally Lori Stiles Karin TarQwyn
Sincerely
Photographers Barbara Riedel, Publisher
P.S. Need a new resource — groomer, trainer, pet food store, day care/boarding facility, veterinarian, etc. Look no further than the advertisers in MetroPet — there are some great resources!
Eric Novak Dan O’Leary
Contact MetroPet PO Box 480065 Kansas City, MO 64148 Phone: 913.548.1433 Ad Sales: 913.579.3815 Fax: 816.941.4655 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. © 2010 MetroPet Magazine. All rights reserved. Request reprint permissions at info@metropetmag.com.
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MetroPet Magazine • J UNE 2010
MetroPet Magazine is owned and published by ROI Marketing Services, all rights reserved.
Music:
The Effects on Dogs
MUSIC CAN SOOTHE OR IRRITATE Have you considered playing music for your dog when you leave home? According to the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare, music is proven to have a positive effect on our dogs. Listening to certain types of music may actually help with the welfare of dogs in animal shelters, as there are types of music that have soothing qualities. On the other hand, there are also certain types of music which agitate dogs and Did you know Clair de should not be Lune may soothe your played around dog while Halestorm dogs in kennels or the shelter enviwill agitate her? ronment.
HEAVY METAL Dogs become agitated and nervous when listening to heavy metal. The effects of heavy metal music on dogs can also make the dogs bark. In the same study, it was found that when exposed to heavy metal music, dogs of all breeds, sizes and ages became quite agitated
CLASSICAL Classical music soothes and calms dogs. In fact, the Arizona Animal Welfare League plays classical music in the shelter to calm their resident dogs. A study in Northern Ireland found music from Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons,” among other classical pieces, calmed dogs to such a point that many of them lay down and slept. Classical music appears to be a great tool to use in an owner’s absence to help decrease the symptoms of separation anxiety for many dogs. J UNE 2010 • MetroPetMag.com
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The
Truth about Dogs and Seizures by Sarah Estlund-Mullally
the research I conducted in an attempt to understand the situation, I found very valuable information for any dog owner.
CAUSES There are two main causes of seizures in dogs: epilepsy and the presence of a brain tumor. (Our Tyler, it turns out had the latter.) However, these two —epilepsy and brain tumor — aren’t the only causes of seizures in dogs. Did you know that toxic chemicals and substances are also a large cause of seizures in dogs? Lead based paint — which is found in nearly all homes built between 1960 and 1978 — is one of the biggest causes of seizures in dogs. Does your dog scratch on the door when he hears your car in the drive? Or maybe you have a dog with anxiety issues that licks the walls? Whether he is scratching the door causing the paint to chip and fall to the floor or licking the May 5, 2010, we lost our beloved dog, Tyler. Tyler was approximately 13 years old but, as with every rescue dog we couldn’t be sure. Two days before his death Tyler had a seizure. Then, 15 hours after his first seizure, he had a second. It started on Monday, May 3rd at 4 a.m. My husband and I were awakened by Stella, another rescue dog we have adopted, barking. Stella was standing over Tyler barking incessantly — her effort to let us know something was very wrong. Tyler was having a seizure. His first, as far as we knew. He had his second seizure at 7 pm that evening. We lost him 48 hours after his first seizure. It turns out, Tyler had a brain tumor which is one of the most common underlying causes of a seizure. Watching our beloved Tyler seize was unbearable. Through 6
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There are two main causes of seizures in dogs: epilepsy and presence of a brain tumor walls, he is ingesting lead based paint and thus, exposing himself to lead poisoning. It was actually my husband who brought this to my attention. We used to keep the dogs upstairs, in our loft area. We have a door to our upstairs loft that the dogs would scratch when they heard us come home. Granted it was never immediately obvious but over time the paint chips on the hard-
wood floor collected and the scratches on the door became much more obvious. Luckily we don’t think the dogs ingested any of this paint but had they, it could have proved fatal. Other toxic substances that may harm and cause seizure activity in your dog are champagne bottle foil, golf ball coverings, batteries and linoleum. Epilepsy is another cause of seizures in dogs and is most common in younger dogs: usually ages three and under. Tumors of the brain are more common in older dogs.
TREATMENT The cause of the seizures in your dog will determine the treatment plan. If it is determined your dog has epilepsy your veterinarian may prescribe an anticonvulsant medication such as Phenobarbital. There are many others as well, but Phenobarbital is the most popular. Other drugs used to treat seizures in dogs are Dilantin or Valium. Your veterinarian may prescribe anticonvulsants to stop the seizures regardless of the cause of the seizure activity. It is important to keep in mind there are underlying causes. In the case that your elderly dog has a brain tumor, as our Tyler did, there is usually no course of treatment for the brain tumor itself. Therefore, keeping the seizures under control is the only treatment option. After time, the brain tumor itself will cause problems, pain and a lesser quality of life for your dog.
DURING THE SEIZURE Watching your beloved dog have a seizure can be terrifying and heartbreaking. There is nothing you can do except try to keep calm. If you have other dogs in your home remember they may react in strange ways. One of our dogs, Stella, mothered Tyler and protected him during his seizures while our other dog Max, attacked Tyler. This, according to many veterinarians, is common. When the alpha dog is in a weakened state it may be common for a non-alpha to try to step up and take advantage. Dogs may act more aggressively while seizing and immediately after a seizure. It is recommended by vets to keep your hands away from your dog’s mouth. They will not swallow their tongue, however they may become scared and bite you. Dogs will also foam at the mouth and a lot of saliva and liquids will be released as a result of the seizure. You can hold your dog: lay over your dog, or anything you are comfortable doing to keep them comfortable and safe during the seizure. During a seizure your dog may or may not have the following symptoms: twitching, muscle spasms, foaming at the mouth, kicking of their legs, barking, crying and involuntary bowel movements or urination.
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Expect odd behavior after your dog has a seizure. This period is heartbreaking, as well, because she will not be herself. She will be scared and feel confused. AFTER THE SEIZURE Expect odd behavior after your dog has a seizure. This period is heartbreaking, as well, because she will not be herself. She will be scared and feel confused. Some possible behaviors might be “wall pressing,” blindness, and loss of control of bowels, kidneys and legs. “Wall pressing” occurs when she walks into a wall and will continue pressing her nose and head against the wall. There are many different reasons she might wall press including relieving pressure in her head, trying to make her way along the wall because she cannot see post-seizure and staying near something stable to feel secure. It is common for dogs to experience temporary blindness after a seizure. Tyler lost his sight entirely for nearly an hour after his first seizure. During and immediately after your dog has a seizure he may lose control of his bowels or kidney. This is hard to watch, yet normal in these circumstances. Many dogs’ legs will buckle underneath them as well. Tyler stood next to me 30 minutes after his seizure and then one or more of his legs would buckle. While having one seizure is not necessarily anything to be concerned about you should take your dog to the vet afterward. The cause of the seizure and potential underlying issues are important to discover and treat. Sarah Estlund-Mullally is a freelance journalist and has worked in animal rescue for more than half her life. She supports animal activist organizations in Kansas City including; Northland Animal Welfare Society, Chain of Hope, SNKC, FOPAS and Northland Pet Pantry. She is very active with the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislature and has a special place in her heart for bully breeds. Sarah and her husband, Kurt, have three rescue dogs ranging from 40 to 95 pounds! 8
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Hike for Heroes SPC Troy Yocum, backed by a team, is taking on the challenge of raising the needed $5 million for veterans and their families by hiking 7,000 miles across America while drumming. The journey will take 15 months passing through 30 states, and 38 large cities. Troy will have to average over 20 miles each day. The idea for the hike has been evolving since 2001, but it is now when our economy is struggling and military families are in most need that he will put one foot in front of another — Stepping up to Help! Troy is hiking across America to “drum up” support for our struggling veterans and families. He will be accompanied by Emmie (Emerson Elaine Eskridge) the Superdog. is a Shiba Inuthe, a distinct breed from Japan. A small, agile dog, Emmie copes very well with mountainous terrain and
Kansas City Schedule June 22 Independence June 23, Kansas City June 24, 980 AM Live June 25, KC Royals June 26, Bonner Springs June 27, Lawrence
trails. Emmie has an abundance of energy. She loves to run, play catch, and
hunt small animals. Emmie has a thick coat, especially during the winter. Her safety is a main concern from the crew during very hot days. If temperatures rise then Emmie will take it nice and easy by riding in the RV that follows SPC Yocum. Of course she can’t stand this. She always wants to be out front to lead the hike. We sometimes think that she was born for the purpose of hiking across America! Emmie has a special role as she walks across America: to help spread joy to many soldiers and their families and she is ready for the challenge! For more information, or to make a donation, visit drumhike.com.
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Training Tips:
Watch Me by Mike Deathe
W
atch Me should be the first command people teach their dogs! Let’s face it, if you don’t have a dog’s attention, teaching them anything else is pretty much futile.
WHAT IS WATCH ME? When I want to teach a dog that, with either a hand signal or a verbal cue (“Watch me!”), FIDO will stop what he is doing and look me in the face and wait for the next command. Watch me can be used for a variety of reasons, but for me it’s the first step in stopping problem behaviors. Put simply, dogs rarely can walk and chew bubble gum at the same time, so if Fido is engaging in a behavior I don’t like, the first thing I will do is ask for a watch me. For that split second when the dog stops the inappropriate behavior, I have, in essence, won the battle, but not the war! The war is teaching the dog an alternative behavior to replace the bad behavior. For example, if my dog is chewing on my prize pair of shoes, I will first negatively mark the behavior (make the EGGHH! noise), then ask for a watch me (to gain attention) and finally ask for a sit (alternative behavior) to take the place of the chewing of shoes. As many of you know, I truly believe that the smartest trait a dog trainer can have is the ability of IGNORING THE BAD AND REWARDING THE GOOD. This becomes the first tenet for winning the war of bad behavior, and watch me becomes the first line of defense for your campaign! So how do I teach my dog this wonderful little trick???
HOW TO EFFECTIVELY USE TREATS Start with a high value treat, and place it right on the end of your dog’s nose, but don’t let him have it yet. Once you have the dog’s attention, move your hand up towards your face. When your dog looks at you (at this point really looking at the treat) Click, and reward. As the dog becomes more comfortable looking up at your face, begin to shape your verbal and hand signals. I use my index finger pointing at my nose for my hand signal and simply say the words, “Watch me,” as my verbal cue. 10
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Getting Fido to look at me is the first step As your dog builds stronger duration and distance capability, you will be able to continue your work in more distracting environments. This command not only works for chewing on shoes, but can also be used for barking, jumping up, rushing the door and even aggression with dogs and people! In all situations “watch me” becomes your main way to refocus your dog’s attention from something you don’t like back to you, so that you can then ask for and build the habit of a behavior you do like.
Many times I hear “My dog does not want to look at my face.” Let’s face it, watch me can be a pretty strange idea to a dog. Think about it, what does it mean when two dogs lock eyes and don’t “blink”? That’s right, it’s a challenge; and some anxious, shy or I guess even aggressive and fearful dogs may not want to participate in this cue. Let me be clear… if you’re dealing with aggression I don’t recommend you trying this by yourself; call a trainer or behaviorist. Do not risk challenging an aggressive dog.
TEACHING DOGS OF ALL AGES That being said, the best time to teach watch me is as a puppy. The tabula rasa or blank slate will make this much easier. All commands and cues are easier to teach before bad habits start, and if all owners did this I would be out of a job, but business is still good. Don’t worry though, even an older dog or one with baggage can learn watch me. But let me warn you, it won’t be hard on the dog…but it may be more difficult for you! Let me clarify, it really isn’t harder, but it will require patience; and many dog owners seem to think patience and difficult are the same thing. Remember to relax and go slow. If the dog will only glance at you with the treat, start there, and work towards a more reliable watch me. It might take a lot of time, but trust me, it will be worth it. A quick hint on clickers…if your dog is scared of the clicking noise, don’t worry! Use a click style pen which is a much softer noise, and then gradually move to a clicker. And if you always have to use a pen, who cares? Chances are, you always have a pen with you so it’s an easy substitute.
TIPS TO REMEMBER So what have we learned? • “Watch me” should be one of the first commands taught. • Simply getting your dog’s attention away from a bad behavior is the start to fixing that behavior. • Watch me is a great way to teach your dog to keep attention on you • You cannot stop with the cue alone, you must replace the bad behavior with an alternate one. REMEMBER… Ignore the bad and reward the good! • As with all dog training, go slow, be patient and relax. This command should be the cornerstone to you and your dog having a better relationship! Mike Deathe is a stay-at-home dad who found his passion as a dog trainer in 2008. He enjoys identifying unique and useful “muttz” related products. He is the author of Keep It Simple Stupid (K.I.S.S.) Pet Blog. Mike has had dogs since he was four years old! As an avid pet lover, he regularly sees the number of dogs and cats that never find a home. In 2009, he and his wife Kate founded Muttz “R” Us, a t-shirt company with a philanthropic motto of “Adopt a Pet, Save a Life.” Visit them at www.muttzrus.com, on facebook, twitter or follow the blog, muttzmembers.blogspot.com. J UNE 2010 • MetroPetMag.com
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LOCAL PET EVENTS
DOG-N-JOG Join us for the 23rd Annual Dog-n-Jog. The Master Emcees for the 2010 Dog-n-Jog event are NBC Action News Chief Meteorologist Gary Lezak, with his weather dog, Stormy, and KFKF Radio’s Debbie Erikson. As in the past, this year’s race is being held on the Country Club Plaza beginning at 7:00 am. The event will be held at the intersection of Central and Ward Parkway, and cover Ward Parkway, Pennsylvania, and Nichols Road. Plenty of Plaza parking will be available for you and your pooch at the Starbuck’s parking lot off Central and the Hall’s parking lot off Wyandotte.
EVENT DETAILS When: Sunday, June 13, 2010 Schedule: 7:00 am: Late registration and fun 8:00 am: One & two mile runs, awards to follow 8:30 am: Two mile walk 8:15-9:45 am Agility performances, cutest dog costume contest, random prize drawings and more! 9:30 am One mile walk 10 am Top pledge collectors honored Registration: Register by June 12 for $25 or on June 13 for $35 12
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Registration Options: 1. Online: the preferred method 2. Download an entry form (as a pdf format) and mail completed forms by June 7 to Dog-n-Jog, 5445 Parallel Parkway, KCK 66104. 3. Register early, at one of the following locations: Brookside Barkery and Bath, Brookside; Petco, Overland Park; PetSmart - Banfield, Shawnee; PetSmart - Banfield, Liberty. 4. Register on the day of the event. Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your event when registering on June 13. All registrants receive a free Dog-n-Jog shirt and fun pack, while supplies last. Fun Pack Pick Up: Pick up your event Fun Pack early or register in person on Saturday, June 12, 10 am to 4 pm, call for locations, or packet pick up and registration tables also open the day of the event from 7 - 9 am.
PAWS IN THE PARK Paws in the Park was established in 2004 by a 50-Plus staff member, Michelle Alexander who was a dog enthusiast. She wanted to add an event to Johnson County Parks and Recreation Department that was for all ages and involved all family members… even the furry ones with tails! The off leash area of Heritage Park was the perfect venue to start this event. The first year was small but successful with 30 to 40 dogs and eight vendors promoting their dog services. At that event, dogs & dog owners participated in the following events: Fashion Race, Cutest Dog, Best Kisser, Best Dog Trick. Michelle said “I was so excited to see how much fun the dogs and their owners had at the event. I felt we were really onto something.” Over the next three years the event grew through the support of local dog related businesses. Each year has brought new contests, demonstrations and new trends, doga-doggie-yoga, MicroChipping, etc. In 2006, Rescue Alley was added, local rescue groups were invited to bring dogs and/or photos of animals seeking forever homes.
NEW LOCATION In 2008, the event was moved to Shawnee Mission Park Beach and it is now called Paws in the Park & Lake! The unique twist is that for this one event, Shawnee Mission Park Beach is opened to dogs and their owners. This location also provides a dog walk on one of the many paved trails. The open beach allows everyone easy access to vendors, restrooms, tables to enjoy lunch, rescue alley, and more, all while watching dogs have the time of their lives!
NEW EVENTS ADDED New events include Police K-9 demonstrations, bone scavenger hunt, bobbing for hot dogs, and an open agility course for any dog to try. Karen Driskill, long-time attendee says, “This is the perfect event for me and my grandchildren to spend a morning swimming, playing games and participating in fun contests with our dogs. We look forward to this day every summer!” The 7th Annual Paws in the Park and is scheduled for Saturday, June 19, 2010. All the excitement begins at 9 am. Our line-up includes a dog walk, demo by Kansas City Disc Dogs, dog-owner relay race, Ask-a-Vet, ball & Frisbee challenge, funniest dog trick and on-going events such as bobbing for hot dogs, dog-photo contest, name that breed and much more.
DISCOUNT — MENTION METROPET All of this is included in the $15 per dog fee, each additional dog is $10. Register by June 11, and mention this article to receive $5 off. To sign up call Kari Baesel at 913-236-1269 or check out our website at www.jcprd.com, keyword: Paws in the Park. J UNE 2010 • MetroPetMag.com
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Celebrate Independence with Calm H
orray for the red, white and blue!!!! But, while you’re waving your flag is Buster hiding under the sofa? You may be enjoying your bratwurst and potato salad, while Molly is miserable and trembling in the closet. To them it sounds like we have just been invaded by the enemy. It is very important that you keep your animals secure over this noisy holiday, as more animals are lost over the 4th of July than other times during the year. You can certainly still show your patriotic spirit while ensuring that your animal companions are protected by following these guidelines.
Don’t take animals to firework displays It will be quieter and safer at home. With the crowds, the smoke, and the noise, it is not something your dog will enjoy. The sound alone can be unbearable (your dog can hear up to three times greater than what the human ear can register).
Never leave your pet in the car The temperature can become deadly in a matter of a few minutes in a closed car. Leaving the windows open only provides an opportunity for your dog to escape or be stolen. 14
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by Pat Hennessy
Never leave pets unattended in a yard Ever if your yard has a fence or your pet is on a chain, leaving your pet in the yard can leave you with dire consequences. In an anxious state your pet may jump a fence or dig out and become lost or injured, and on a cable or a chain your pet runs the risk of injury or death by choking or getting tangled. The best bet is to keep your animal companions indoors.
Provide a quiet comfortable area Provide a quiet comfortable area for them to stay – a room downstairs (farther from the sound), a closet, or an open crate (offer this
It is important to always have a current ID tag on your companion animal; this is the quickest way to get your pet back option if they are used to a crate and consider it a “safe place”). Leave a TV or radio on at a normal volume, which will provide some background noise and mask some of the distant fireworks. If your dog is not bothered much by the noise, you may offer an appropriate chew toy as you would if you were leaving any other time (toys you know are safe to leave with him). If your dog is bothered by the noise, then you will want to pick up items that he could tear up – some dogs get destructive when frightened.
Make sure your pets are wearing identification It is important to always have a current ID tag on your companion animal, because if an individual or family finds your pet, the first thing they will look for is the tag and that is the quickest way they can get your pet back to you. Animal shelters, and some veterinarians, will be able to scan for a microchip.
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ADDITIONAL SOOTHING OPTIONS Along with the basic safety tips, if your pet is truly distressed by loud noises, consider these additional options. • Stay home with your pets. Having a familiar family member with them, who is calm, can be the first step in lowering their anxiety. • Try some gentle touch or massage techniques. • Body wraps are another great calming option, such as the Anxiety Wrap® or Thundershirt ®. These stretchy fabric shirts bring body awareness and have the calming effect of swaddling a baby. • Add aromatherapy to the mix – lavender oil works well for us and our animal companions, but formulas specifically for them include the pheromone versions (DAP for dogs and Feliway for cats). • Try flower essences, such as Rescue Remedy™ or natural supplements which have herbal ingredients, such as Calmazon ™ with Chamomile and Passion Flower, or ProQuiet™ with L-Tryptophan, Chamomile and Ginger.
If the noise phobia is severe and you feel you need something strong, be aware that some drugs will relax the muscles but not the mind. Consult with your veterinarian. • If the noise phobia is severe and you feel you need something strong, be aware that some drugs will relax the muscles but not the mind. Consult with your veterinarian. While July 4th is a day for us to celebrate our Independence as a nation, let it be a day that your animal companions can celebrate their independence from stress. Pat Hennessy, is the founder of N2paws, LLC, an organization that provides companion animal attunement through behavior education, energy work, and positive training methods. Pat is a certified Level 2 TTouch practitioner, CPDT and member of the IAABC, IAATH and AWA. You may contact N2Paws via email pat@n2paws.com, phone 816-522-7005, or visit the website www.n2paws.com. 16
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Feline Signs
Gemini (May 21 - June 21)
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21)
Cat On A Hot Tin Roof. This feline is lively and enthusiastic, but may possess a split personality.
The Stable Cat. A totally positive, energetic, cheerful and optimistic soul, this cat is a joy to have around.
Cancer (June 22 - July 22)
Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 20)
The Crazy Cat. An adaptable and variable cat is tenacious, unpredictable, true to his or her nocturnal nature and somewhat moody.
The Cat Burglar. This feline will plod through life in a punctilious way, head turned to the skies, falling over his or her own paws.
Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22)
Aquarius (Jan. 21 - Feb. 18)
The Top Cat. Occasionally the Leo Cat will chase a tail or bite toes, but most of the time, this cat will remains composed.
The Hip Cat. Very independent and, at heart, a loner, this feline is infamous for being more than a little eccentric.
Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22)
Pisces (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20)
The Kitten Cat. Most owners soon become accustomed to watching tiny, four-legged images of themselves walk around.
The Ship’s Cat. This cat is the “dupli-cat.” It sees double and does everything twice in the event something may have been overlooked the first time.
Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22)
Aries (Mar. 21 - Apr. 19)
The Copy-Cat. The Libra Cat will be a truly loving and devoted feline. It is of dire importance to this feline, that it be among people who are sympathetically inclined.
The Stray Cat. This intrepid and adventurous cat is constantly busy and considers the world to be full of new horizons.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21)
The Earth Mother. The Taurus Cat is steady and dependable...always where the owner expects this cat to be and doing what is expected of him or her.
The Cat’s Pajamas. Determination is the guiding force of the Scorpio Cat, and it is indeed a force to be reckoned with.
Taurus (Apr. 20 - May 20)
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April Showers Bring May Flowers
June Brings Bugs by Pat Hennessy
S
pring brings renewed life to our landscape and with it longer hours, warmer weather, and pesky bugs. Don’t let a few annoying insects ruin your spring activities. Get a jump on them early, be thorough, and get ready for summer. The Midwest certainly has its share of flying, buzzing, and creepy crawly pests, due to our beautiful trees, grasses, and less than pleasant humidity. Talk to your veterinarian about what products he or she has to offer to keep those pests at bay. If your dog or cat has a history of health issues, be sure to discuss all the options (do your research on ingredients and don’t hesitate to ask questions). You are your pet’s advocate. No matter what flea & tick method you choose always be diligent about protecting your pets. Observe them for any signs of irritation, as you will be checking them for fleas and ticks anyway. Products don’t always protect them 100% of the time If you are worried about conventional flea & tick treatments being toxic, you can go natural (especially for the very young, senior, and ailing pets).
KEEP YOUR ANIMAL COMPANIONS PEST FREE ❏ Maintain an industrious regime of brushing, bathing and vacuuming. • If you do find one of those nasty bloodsuckers embedded in your dog or cat, there is a nice new product that removes them naturally and safely without the fuss of using tweezers or Vaseline. It’s called a Tick Key® and it is available through Cabela’s or N2paws. This tool removes the entire tick - avoiding the trauma of trying to back it out, 18
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which causes it to release toxins into the bloodstream. The Tick Key® surrounds the tick and slides it out perfectly where you can dispose of it properly. ❏ Keep grass and shrubs trimmed short, which increases sunlight exposure and dryness and keeps the insect population down. ❏ Consider using natural applications, such as (diluted) essential oils or citrus foods diffused in water.
• You have to be conscientious about the use of oils as some essential oils can be irritating to human and pet skin and may cause an allergic reaction. One way to use them safely would be to apply them to a bandanna and place it on your dog with the application side up (and double fabric underneath to prevent l e a k i n g through). The best essential oils as flea repellents are: citronella, cedar, peppermint, rosemary, eucalyptus, lemongrass, and lavender. If your pet is not prone to allergies you may consider making a spray: put 10-15 drops of any of the above oils in a pint sized (dark colored) glass spray bottle, with spring water or distilled water. ❏ Another very safe choice is to add 1 cup of raw apple cider vinegar with 2 cups of distilled water. Put this mixture in a spray bottle and spritz it on your dog or cat. An alternative, and equally safe option, would be to cut up 5-6 lemons and boil them in a 1 quart pan of water. Let it cool, then fill a spray bottle with it to mist on your dog or cat. ❏ These sprays may also be used on bedding or around doorways and baseboards in your home to keep fleas out. One of the best things you can do for your pets is feed them a high quality diet. The more nutrition that can be absorbed by your pet’s body, the healthier she will be. A better diet makes for a stronger immune system to fight off invaders like disease, fleas, and ticks.
KEEP A CAREFUL EYE Don’t let the pesky bugs of summer get you or your animal companions down. Maintain a careful eye on your pets and make sure you are armed with appropriate tools to keep them safe and having fun this summer. Pat Hennessy, is the founder of N2paws, LLC, an organization that provides companion animal attunement through behavior education, energy work, and positive training methods. Pat is a certified Level 2 TTouch practitioner, CPDT 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. J UNE 2010 • MetroPetMag.com
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Learn About a Breed
Dachshunds
The Dachshund, meaning “badger dog” in German, is a lively breed with a friendly personality and keen sense of smell. Known for their long and low bodies, they are eager hunters that excel in both above- and below-ground work. One of the most popular breeds according to AKC® Registration Statistics, they come in three different coat varieties (Smooth, Wirehaired or Longhaired) and can be miniature or standard size.
HISTORY Dachshunds were first bred in the early 1600s in Germany. The goal was to create a fearless, elongated dog that could dig the earth from a badger burrow and fight to the death with the vicious badgers. The Dachshund (pronounced dacks-hoont, not dashhound) probably developed in Germany from the St. Hubert Hound about 300 years ago, but similar dogs were depicted in Egyptian art work more than 1000 years ago. The breed name means “badger hound,” an apt description of the dog’s original purpose. Dachshunds “went to ground” after the ferocious badger, a weasel cousin considered to be vermin, bravely drawing it from the den to face the hunter’s guns. The breed became popular in the U.S. during the early 1900’s, but fell out of favor during World War I. After the war, a few U.S. breeders slowly rebuilt the gene pool by importing German stock, and the breed began to increase in popularity again.
IS THIS THE RIGHT BREED FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY? Dachshunds are lovable, playful companions, and an ideal pet for many homes, including those with children with appropriate supervision. They require moderate exercise, and can adapt to most living environments. Depending on their coat type, Dachshunds may need regular grooming. Today’s Dachshund is a pet, not a hunter, but still maintains the characteristics of independence, courage, hardiness, and combativeness that served so well as it challenged the fierce badger in its den. The other half of the Dachshunds personality moderates its bold attitude with a loving demeanor, a heavy dose of charm, and a playful sense of humor.
THREE VARIETIES The smooth Dachshund probably was the original, with longhairs either a result of mutation and selective breeding or of crossbreeding, perhaps with a German spaniel. The wirehair is thought to be the result of crosses with smooth Dachshunds, Schnauzers, and Dandie Dinmont Terriers. The long-coats were thought unsuitable for go-to-ground work so were used as bird dogs. The wirecoats were well-protected against burrs and thorns in the field. 20
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Although the three varieties share common temperaments, observers say their personalities differ somewhat. The smooths are inclined to attach themselves to a particular family member and to be somewhat aloof with strangers. The wirehairs are extroverts with a clownish sense of humor, and the longhairs manage to maintain their dignity while happily playing with anyone who can be enticed into a game. If you are considering purchasing a Dachshund puppy, learn as much as you can about the breed. • Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1885. • Dachshunds can be standard or miniature size. Standards range from 16-32 pounds, while Miniatures weigh 11 pounds and under. • Badger hunter, family companion.
CARE AND TRAINING The Dachshund is generally long-lived and healthy but is subject to some genetic diseases,
including slipped disc syndrome. Some owners are apt to pamper their Dachshunds in the hopes of preventing slipped discs. However, rather than being a condition of long-backed, lowslung dogs, the syndrome is probably genetic and pampering has no effect on its expression. Boxers, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, and Pekingese are also affected to some degree, while the Basset Hound, another low-slung dog springing from the same stock as the Dachshund, does not appear to be. Eye abnormalities, urinary tract stones, and mammary gland cancers can be problems in the breed, and the dapple coat pattern (known as merle in other breeds) is connected with eye and hearing difficulties. The Dachshund is a low-maintenance breed. 1) smooths need little grooming but may need a sweater for cold weather. 2) longhair needs brushing to prevent mats from forming 3)wirehair care falls somewhere in between; sweater not needed, but his coat requires some brushing, especially if it is soft. Pay close attention to the Dachshund’s droopy ears, they can hold the moisture and be a breeding ground for fungus, bacteria, and mites. Like all dogs, the Dachshund must be trained. Although a smaller sized dog they are muscular and clever mischievous. Training should be done with firm, consistent guidance, not harsh correction. Compliments AKC and Dachshund Club of America
Canine Signs Gemini (May 21 - June 21)
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21)
The Yapper. An alert and graceful creature, the nervous energy of the Gemini Dog enables this canine to keep going all day.
The Problem Dog. This canine will be a restless dog...fliting from one interest to another, unable to decide what he or she actually likes.
Cancer (June 22 - July 22)
Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 20)
The Home-Lover. Superficially a timid and retiring type of canine, content to be left unnoticed, this dog will, in fact, be quite the opposite.
The Social Climber. With one glance, the Capricorn Dog will sum up a person and no amount of elocution lessons or learned deportment will fool this canine.
Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22)
Aquarius (Jan. 21 - Feb. 18)
The Boss-Dog. Regal of bearing, erect of stance and commanding of presence, the Leo Dog will always be the perfect specimen, no matter the breed.
The Friend. Thorough, slow, and painstaking deliberate, the Aquarius Dog possesses a stubborn streak that is liable to drive its owners crazy.
Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22)
Pisces (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20)
The Helper. The Libra Dog is also a firm believer in the “closed shop” concept. In other words, one house...one dog.
The Interpreter. An unpredictable soul whose mind changes from one minute to the next, the life of the Pisces Dog is an endless ebb and flow of moods.
Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22)
Aries (Mar. 21 - Apr. 19)
The Shop-Steward Since the Libra Dog models their life on that of the owner, if things go wrong then the owner only has themselves to blame.
Leader of the Pack. Physically, the Aries Dog is an active, energetic and urgent type of canine with an almost endless capacity for exercise every day.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21)
Taurus (Apr. 20 - May 20)
The Paragon. The life of the Scorpio Dog has but one purpose...self-mastery, which will occupy this canine as long as he or she lives.
The Strong Silent Type Being close to its owner, is heaven to this canine. When you leave your Taurus dog behind, leave something which contains the owner’s scent.
Find A Stray?
What Do You Do? What should you do if you find a stray dog …microchipping your pets is a must! by Mike Deathe
M
ark was doing what many of us do every morning, going to Starbucks for his start of the day cup of coffee, when he noticed a small terrier mix running around the parking lot! This little dog was going in and out of traffic and running up to everyone he met, saying hi, and looking for help! As Mark headed in to get his coffee, another customer asked “what do you think we should do about this little guy?” After some discussion it was decided Mark could, while on his way to work, drop the little guy off at the police station!
MICROCHIPPING SAVED THE DAY! But on his way there, Mark had another thought, what if this dog was microchipped? Mark knew that both of his dogs were…what if this little guy was, as well? Mark knew that taking the dog to the police station was a one way ticket to the pound and a sure fire hefty fine for the owners. So instead of dropping the dog off at the police station, Mark decided to go to the nearest veterinarian and have the dog checked for a microchip. Guess what, this little guy had one (his name is Benji), and in a matter of hours (with the help of the folks at the Animal Hospital) Mark was talking to some very appreciative dog owners that not only had their dog back (without fines), but three very happy kids who thought they had lost their family friend forever! Dr. Allison C. Bradshaw, D.V.M. stated, “Here at Oxford Animal Hospital we are strong advocates for the microchip system. About once a month we are able to return a lost pet to his/her owner. Collars and ID tags are very important, but are not permanent means of identification. Microchips are the only permanent means of identification that we have available, and they are very reasonably priced. They are easily placed with an injection and just take a few seconds! We always scan stray or found cats and dogs and have found pets, but many times owners forget to update their registry when they move, so this is important as well.” 22
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IMPORTANT LESSONS There are two very important lessons to take from this story: 1. If you find a dog, don’t assume the animal shelter or police department is the best place to take a lost dog. And for those who just look on and keep driving, shame on you. Either of these choices just puts more pressure on an already stressed resource! Take the time to help out someone you have never met. A chilling fact — the Humane Society estimates between 3-4 million pets are killed each year in shelters! If each person reading this does just what Mark did last week, think of the difference we could make! 2. Microchip Your Dog!!!!! The cost here is minimal, at the high end, it will cost you around $40, and if you go to some of the local pet events in your area, I have seen them done for as little as $5 per dog.
MORAL OF THE STORY So the moral of this story is to treat others as you would hope they would treat you. Thanks to Mark’s decision to go a little out of his way and stop by a Veterinarian instead of the city pound or police station, Benji’s owners now have their dog back along with some very happy kids. I know that if they get the chance to do the same for someone else, they most certainly will. Thanks to the personal phone call from the owners, I know Mark would do it again! Now the big question…how many of you will go out and micro chip your dogs (if not done already), or will take the extra time to stop and pick up the next dog or cat you see and head to the nearest Veterinarian and most likely make someone’s day! I think Mark put it best when I asked him why he did it…“My main objective that morning was to reunite the dog with its family/owner. When I found out that the dog was micro-chipped I knew that reunion would take place before the day ended. Receiving the phone call from the owner showed their gratitude with thanks and praise for my actions, and that was all I needed. My last words were to pass it forward, meaning that if you encounter a similar situation make the next person happy and keep the cycle going.” I think we could all learn a lot from Mark, and owe him a big thank you for a good deed that we should all do as well! Mike Deathe is a stay-at-home dad who found his passion as a dog trainer in 2008. He enjoys identifying unique and useful “muttz” related products. He is the author of Keep It Simple Stupid (K.I.S.S.) Pet Blog. Mike has had dogs since he was four years old! As an avid pet lover, he regularly sees the number of dogs and cats that never find a home. In 2009, he and his wife Kate founded Muttz “R” Us, a t-shirt company with a philanthropic motto of “Adopt a Pet, Save a Life.” Visit them at www.muttzrus.com, on facebook, twitter or follow the blog, muttzmembers.blogspot.com. J UNE 2010 • MetroPetMag.com
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Chip’s Corner
Pawzzle
by Heddie Leger
Across: 1. 4. 5. 9. 11. 12. 14. 17. 19. 20. 22.
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Dogs and cats use ____________ language to communicate These pets can make wonderful therapy animals What you call teaching a dog to potty outside A responsible owner gives their dog plenty of _______________ All animals need food and __________ Another name for doggy dancing Dog sport that uses a dock Competition sport showing precision skills Sport using a retriever in the field Proper _________________ can save your dogs life Type of training that uses a reward as a basis
Down: 2. It has been medically proven that a person's blood pressure _____________ when petting a friendly dog 3. Fun sport showing dog speed and physical versatility 6. It is important to __________ your puppy to many people and situations 7. Item used to secure a dog in a vehicle 8. A young dog 10. Sport where dog finds items 13. Word used to tell a dog not to move from place 15. Keeps your dog clean 16. Nothing in life is _______ 18. Head Halter for a dog 19. Used with dogs that cannot use a collar for restraint 21. It is important to brush your dog's _______
May Pawzlle Answers
KICKS FOR CANINES Celebrating the importance of the pets in your life, the Wizards will be hosting the Kicks for Canines on Saturday, October 9, at the Community America Ballpark. For this special event, you can purchase a ticket for you and your canine companion. More details are at www.kcwizards.com. J UNE 2010 • MetroPetMag.com
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When pets go…missing!
First Response Protocol…
H
ere comes summer… the sun, the water and more time spent outside with the family pet. As the days turn long and the temperatures travel up the mercury… the incidences of dogs and cats gone missing goes on the rise.
IMMEDIATE RESPONSE IS THE KEY In my work, the summer months are the busiest with pets going missing from their homes, while on vacation, from boarding facilities and the groomers, as well as hundreds of other situations in which the family pet finds himself… lost…in an unfamiliar place. All require immediate response… because a missing pet is an emergency.
WHEN A BELOVED PET GOES MISSING From the beginning… an organized approach is best. The situation may be brought on by a trip to the vet or a front door left open, but the worst of nightmares begins when a beloved four pawed family member escapes or goes missing. If you have never encountered this situation, the experience can be quite a shock. For many of us it can be paralyzing at a time when we need to be on our best game. It is a time for action when you may feel the need to curl up and just cry. Below is a list of the most immediate activities to pursue when first you realize your pet has escaped or is missing.
RELAX AND DON’T PANIC… but also don’t wait to start looking. Statistics prove that pet owners with the greatest likely hood of recovering their pet start looking immediately and have an organized approach. Be one of these pet owners. 26
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by Karin TarQwyn
Ground Zero Property Search: Make sure your pet is really missing. If you did not see him or her escape or do not know of anyone who did, take a few minutes to do a quick sweep of your property and the most obvious hiding spots before bolting for the front door to look. Check your home, yards, garage, outbuildings under beds, etc. Sick or injured animals hide much of the time.
PREPARE TO SEARCH What to Bring You can gather this in 5 minutes or less. A better idea is to have some one else do this while you do the ground zero search or even better… have an emergency kit prepared. • Photo of pet • 20 cards with 24-hour phone number & the words LOST DOG or LOST CAT • Treats… even last night’s leftovers • Leash or Carrier Whistle squeaky toy or clicker if pet has been trained to one or thinks they are fun and will respond.
Box of treats or food that you can rattle if pet responds to this type of item
BRING IN THE TROOPS This is the time to call in your friends, family and neighbors. If possible, recruit those who will be supportive in your efforts and understand your concern and attachment for your pet. Call in your supportive friends and not the naysayers. You need to keep yourself focused in your efforts.
MAKE IT EASY FOR THE ANIMAL TO RETURN Leave someone at the point of escape or your home in case your pet returns. If no one is available leave a gate open, car door or crate or something that pet is familiar with and may want to stay near. In the worst case and with nothing else to leave, take off a piece of your clothing and leave it at the frond door, near the gate or on the front porch.
HEAD FOR THE DOOR! Choose a Direction If you know in which direction the pet went, go that way, (and forget the ground zero search as you know he’s out). If you are not sure of the direction and your pet has done this before, go in the direction he went the last time he got out. If you have no idea what so ever, go to the spot where you think the animal escaped and assume he went right. This is a percentage call because dogs turn to the right more often than they turn to the left. If however, there is something scary to the right or something is blocking the way then choose another direction. Cats bolt in straight lines and tend to stay up against bushes, fences and other areas that will provide cover. Neighborhood QUICK Search Calling for your pet. One of the most difficult parts of the search is trying to remain calm. As you call your pet it is important to use your inside, affectionate voice. When we are stressed or trying to project our voice, we put tension in our voice which most pets perceive as something wrong. So if the animal is already shy or afraid, low soft voices and affectionate clicks and noises you use regularly are much more effective than screaming his or her name at the top of your lungs. Most of us have funny, affectionate or maybe even goofy pet names we call our beloved pet, as embarrassing as it is, this is the voice and words to use. It is quite a sight to see a big football player walking down the sidewalk, calling “Pookie wookie, Daddy loves you.” But it works! Explain it to the neighbors later. Find your pet now. Call pet’s name but stop to listen…Call… listen Pause to count of 10. Call and pause to count of 10, then listen. Repeat this pattern. Remember use your indoor, happy affectionate voice like you want to play or give affection. If you have trained your pet to a whistle, squeaky toy, shaking a box of food or treats, or any other welcoming response use this now. If you drive for more than an hour with no sightings or leads return to the point of escape to figure out the direction of travel the fleeing pet went in. Knock on doors and talk to everyone outside: Ask anyone you see as you are searching out direction and
sightings, “Have you seen this dog or cat?” Show the picture and leave LOST PET card with them. If someone has seen your pet; go in the direction they direct you and use the above protocols while continuing to gather sightings, evidence and direction. Follow your leads and sightings Repeat until you either find your pet or run out of clues and sightings. If you go over one hour with no sightings or clues, head back to the point of escape to update and design a more formal search strategy with public awareness, development of witnesses and effective activities that will lead you to a reunion with your pet. After her own dog went missing, Private Investigator Karin TarQwyn channeled her efforts from humans to animals. She has appeared on CNN, NBC, ABC, CBS, PBS Animal Attractions, People magazine Pet’s Hero and many major metropolitan newspapers. TarQwyn works with pet owners all over North America assisting in the location and recovery of their missing four-pawed family members. She and her pack of tracking dogs live in south eastern Nebraska. Her web site is www.k9pi.com
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Dog Waste The Presents Your Dog Leaves Behind by Lori Stiles No matter how you look at it, dog waste is the “gift” that keeps on giving. We love our dogs, but are not so thrilled with the deposits left in our yard. Until dogs learn how to use the bathroom facilities inside the home, we need to educate ourselves on the importance of cleaning up dog waste.
DECISIONS TO MAKE RELATING TO DOG WASTE Winter sometimes brings on a different mind set for dog owners. Some individuals will hire a professional pooper scooper service during this time period so they do not have to deal with the cold weather. Others will leave the waste in the yard since technically no one in the family (except for the dogs) are interested in going outside. Before you choose to leave the waste in the yard, there are several points of interest regarding accumulation you may want to consider.
DOG WASTE ACCUMULATES QUICKLY Dogs eliminate waste up to two times per day, and the average household has two dogs. With this scenario, if dog waste is not collected within a month, there will be a total of 112 piles in your yard. Consider how much will accumulate over the winter (November through February) with two dogs. This would add up to an average of 448 piles by Spring and will take countless hours to clean up. The American Pet Association released an interesting statistic. There are approximately 71 million dogs in the United States that eliminate approximately 4.4 billion pounds of dog waste each year. This is enough to cover 900 football fields 12” thick of dog waste!
BENEFITS OF CLEANING UP DOG WASTE ON A REGULAR BASIS First, consider your time management. If you clean your yard weekly, you can reduce the 112 pile scenario to a manageable 28 pile yard. This will take you approximately 10 to 15 minutes to clean if you have an average size yard and are using appropriate dog waste removal equipment. Most important, cleaning your yard weekly will allow you to detect any abnormalities in the dog waste such as loose stool, worms or foreign objects that may be harmful to your pet. This information can be helpful to your veterinarian if 28
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it becomes necessary to seek help regarding any illness or digestive track problems. If you hire a professional pooper scooper company please ask if they communicate these issues when they are detected. If not, search for another company. Your dog’s health should be their number one priority.
...the truth is dog waste can take up to a year to completely disintegrate
IT’S A MYTH. DOG WASTE IS NOT FERTILIZER Now, before you think dog waste decomposes quickly, the truth is dog waste can take OW O FFORD A up to a year to completely disROFESSIONAL OOPER integrate. The COOPER reason for this slow decomposiHow do you budget for a profestion is because sional pooper scooper during a dog waste is a tight recession? There are several protein-based ways to negotiate pricing. output that has a The first option is to talk with high nitrogen your neighbors or homeowner content which is association and see if anyone harmful to your would like to have their yard grass and plants. cleaned by a professional pooper Unlike horse or scooper. If several yards are close cow manure that together you may collectively be is a vegetation able to negotiate a lower rate. based output, This will allow the company to the nitrogen is clean several yards in a close low and can be proximity. used as fertilizer. The second option is a referral Most important, program most companies offer. dog waste This applies when you send one or more clients to your professional pooper scooper; in turn most companies provide a discount for service. Don’t be afraid to call and ask for a deal. You will never know what will work until you call.
H
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P
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should not be composted for fertilizer. If used in a garden it can transfer illnesses to humans. Lori and Alan Stiles founded Scoopy the PooTM in 2005. Scoopy the Poo provides professional dog waste removal services and is the leader in the United States that designs equipment used by Professional Pooper Scoopers and is now available for sale to the public. For additional information about services and equipment go to www.scoopythepoo.com or contact Lori or Alan at 816-412-9000. J UNE 2010 • MetroPetMag.com
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Ask the Vet: My cat isn’t using the litter box. What do I do?
by Sheila M. Dodson, DVM This is one of the most common concerns owners have regarding their cats; and the most common reason that cats are relinquished to shelters and rescue groups. The first thing you should do is schedule a visit to your veterinarian so they can give your cat a thorough physical exam along with some diagnostic testing to rule out illness or other conditions like arthritis. Once we know there are no physical reasons for the problem, there are some basic things I like to start with when evaluating behavioral reasons for what we call inappropriate urination. Ask yourself the following questions.
Q. A. Q. A. Q. A. 30
How many cats/pet are in the household? Reviewing how all the pets get along is the first step to identifying inter-pet aggressions and possible marking behavior to stake out territory. Even outside activity can cause some cats to get stressed and “mark” their indoor territory around windows and doors where they see and hear other cats who roam outside. Any recent changes in the environment, family activity, new family members? Changes are sometimes hard for cats to get used to. Any additions to the household, or people and pets that move out, can cause some stress. How many litter boxes do you have The rule of thumb is that there should be at least the same number of boxes as the number of cats in the household. If you have a large house, have at least one box on any of the levels your cat spends their time.
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Q. A.
What kind of litter boxes do you have? Cats prefer uncovered boxes. Think about how sensitive their sense of smell is, then imagine walking into a covered box. The purpose of the cover is to keep the smell confined; think how bad it smells to them! But, more importantly, the common commercial litter boxes are much too small for the average cat. The box should be at least 1-1/2 times the length of your cat’s body. Cats need the room to move around and dig comfortably. I recommend buying large storage containers (the ones that are about 6” to 8” deep) to use as litter boxes. They work wonderfully!
Q. A.
Q. A.
Q. A.
What kind of litter do you use? Cats generally love very fine-grain types of litter. I find the soft, fine, hard clumping litter works the best. I know we may want to be environmentally conscious, but some of the thicker types of litter (paper, corn, pine, etc.), are not attractive to cats. You will want to use a litter they enjoy digging in before eliminating. The objective is for your cat to like the litter enough that they dig in it for more than 4 seconds. It may be messy; but digging in the litter is a very good sign! If you are changing litters, I always recommend you initially keep at least one box available with their old litter, giving them a choice between the old litter and the new one. Once their preference is clear, you can use the new litter in all their boxes. (Some cats have different preferences than the norm, so don’t be surprised if your cat likes a different kind). How often do you scoop/clean the litter box Cats are very clean creatures! They do not like to use a dirty box. This is one of the most important things to remember: scoop the boxes daily (removing all the feces and urine clumps; another reason I like hard clumping litter!). Completely dump the litter and put fresh litter in the box at least every two weeks or so. Keeping the box clean and scooped daily also helps control odors in your house! Where are the litter boxes? Location, location, location. The boxes should have easy access for your cat. They are best in quiet spots (usually not in the laundry room where running washers can be loud and scary) and away from where they eat or sleep. If you are trying to keep your dog from eating some of the cat goodies they find in the litter box, try using a baby gate in the door to where you keep the box. If you have a large dog, installing the gate a foot from the floor J UNE 2010 • MetroPetMag.com
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allows your cat to walk under the gate. Make sure it isn’t too difficult for your cat to get to their litter box; if it is a challenge, they may find an easier spot on their own (like your bed, clothes on the floor, or rugs). There are many more factors that may contribute to your cat not using the litter box. A thorough discussion with your veterinarian can help you solve the problem. Most problems have a solution, so don’t give up!This might not seem like much, but consider that one (1) pound on a ten (10) pound cat is 10% of its body weight. If an overweight cat loses too quickly, it may cause some serious and life threatening conditions like fatty liver disease. Careful monitoring of weight loss by a veterinarian is advised. Dr. Sheila Dodson received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Kansas State University in 1999. She has served as Medical Director of No More Homeless Pets KC after practicing small animal medicine in Montana and Shawnee, Kansas. She loves working with cat behavioral issues and currently practices at Mariposa Veterinary Center in Lenexa, KS where she can be reached at 913-825-3330. Dr. Dodson also is the current President of the Kansas Veterinary Medical Association.
Is Your Pet the
Cutest in KC?
Maya — Our 12 week old Pointer runs to the dryer when the timer goes off. She climbs into the dryer and lays on the clothes and allows the clothes to be taken out after a little tug. When the dryer is empty she climbs out. Submitted by Lori Austin
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Submit your photo at metropetmag.com.
Upcoming Events Sheltie Rescue Adoptions What: Adoption Events Where: Petco, 75th and Metcalf, OP, KS When: Sat, June 12 & 26 • 10am-2pm Sun, June 6 & July 4 • 11am-3pm Details: kcsheltierescue.org
All About Dogs / U-Wash Puppy What: Old Shawnee Days Parade Where: Shawnee, KS When: Sat, June 5 • 10 am
Go Pet Go Grand Opening Where: Liberty, MO What: Prizes, pet/owner look-alike contest, prizes When: Sat, June 12 • All Day Details: gopetgokc.com
Rediscover’s Paws for a Cause Where: Downtown Lee’s Summit, MO What: Dog parade, fashion show, and more! When: Sat, June 12 • 11 am - 2 pm
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METROPET PICK-UP LOCATIONS MetroPet Magazine can be found in 100 FREE Magazines racks in the KC metro area. Here is a short list of these locations. Blockbuster Stores: Sears/K-Mart Stores: CVS Stores: Grocery Stores: Gladstone, MO • Hy-Vee, 71st & N Prospect • Balls Price Chopper, 500 NE Barry Road • Balls Price Chopper, 5820 N. Oak Trafficway • Balls Price Chopper, 6475 N. Prospect Kansas City, MO • Hy-Vee, 207 NW Engelwood Parkville, MO • Mckeever’s Price Chopper Platte City, MO • Price Chopper Riverside, MO • Red X
All KC area locations Most KC area locations Most CVS locations See list below Kansas City, MO • Hy-Vee at 207 NW Engelwood Merriam, KS • Balls Hen House, 5800 Antioch Overland Park, KS • Queens Price Chopper, 86th & Antioch • Queens Price Chopper, 151st St Shawnee Mission, KS • Hy-Vee, 13650 W 63rd St • Ball’s Price Chopper, 63rd St • Ball’s Hen House • Costentino’s, W. 66th St
Paws in the Park And Lake Sat, June 19 • 9 am - 2 pm Details: jcprd.com keyword: Paws in the Park
Pets-N-All That Jazz Gala Sat, June 26 • 9 am - 4 pm Benefits: Animals Best Friends Details: animalsbestfriends.org
Kitty Cat Connection Huge Parking Lot Sale Sat, June 26 • 9 am - 4 pm Where: Animals in Need Thrift Store, Riverside, MO Benefits: Kitty Cat Connection Details: animalsinneed.com J UNE 2010 • MetroPetMag.com
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Is Your Pet the
Cutest in KC?
Bailey — Bailey was dumped at a vet’s office about 2 years ago. She has now become the mascot at Abby Road Farm. She races around the barn all day pestering the barn cats, then retires to her sofa at night.She also attends all out of town horse shows with me. The barn is definitely where she is most comfortable Submitted by Kelly Stewart
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MetroPet Magazine • J UNE 2010
Lady (dog) and AJ (boy) — Lady was adopted from Wayside Waifs 1 yr ago. My son AJ picked her out after filing up and down the isles at the 1/2 price adoption weekend. This is what happens when you give a boy and dog a toad to play with on a lovely Sunday afternoon. Submitted by Pamela Greenwell
Snap a photo of your pet and submit it at metropetmag.com.