t is L h is W ’ ts e P Our Shelter e
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call (913) 742-7344
December 2014
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Articles 5 De-Stressing Your Pets During the Holidays 8 Muddy Water
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10 Brrrr — It’s Cold Outside! 12 Ferrets
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15 Say What You Mean, Mean What You Say 18 Second Chance Pet Adoptions 21 Happy and Healthy, Holiday Tips for Pet Owners 24 Cha Ching
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26 Adventures of Chip 28 Breed of the Month 30 Pawzzle 32 Pet Services Directory
The Holidays Are Here!
The holiday season has arrived — lights and decoration are appearing inside and out! My twelveyear-old twins have made their gift lists. Murphy, my pup, knows that something is up!
Holiday Pet Dangers
As you start your holiday shopping, please remember your four-legged friends. Include them in your traditions and take care to protect them from seasonal dangers. This issue contains two articles about pets and the holidays. The first one is about de-stressing your pets during the holidays, page 5, the second is about holiday dangers, page 21.
Year-End Contributions
Thinking about making a year-end contribution? Consider a local shelter or rescue group. These groups make a difference for the animals in our city, and your donation can make a huge impact. There is a detailed list of local shelter and rescue groups under the tab rescue/shelter at www.kc.metropetmag.com Or, if you can’t make a monetary donation, clean out your closets and donate usable items from the organizations’ wish lists. These items might include cloth towels, newspapers, paper towels, office supplies, etc. Another great option is to be a volunteer. By volunteering just a few hours a month, you can make a big impact. What a wonderful way to recognize the good works of these groups.
Another idea might be to purchase pet supplies or pay for veterinary expenses an elderly friend or relative.
Need a Gift Suggestion?
Don’t just buy another holiday knick-knack, use your money wisely and support our advertisers by purchasing products and services that you can use. This is also a great way to say Thank You to them for making this magazine possible!
New Changes Coming in 2015
MetroPet magazine is working on some exciting new ideas to make the magazine even more interesting in 2015. They will offer you an opportunity to grow with us and support our advertisers!
Thank you
As always, this issue includes some terrific articles. Thank you to our terrific writers. Thank you to our advertisers — without them, this magazine would not be possible. And, finally thank you to our readers. Please support our advertiser and tell them “We saw your ad in MetroPet magazine!” Thank you!
Happy Holidays! Sincerely,
Barbara Riedel Publisher
Publisher Barbara Riedel barbara@metropetmag.com
Advertising Sales Barbara 913.548.1433
Editor/Production Manager Dan O’Leary editor@metropetmag.com
Deals of the Week deals@metropetmag.com
Magazine Layout ROI Marketing 816.942.1600 • roi@kc.rr.com
Contact MetroPet PO Box 480065 Kansas City, MO 64148 Phone: 913.548.1433 Fax: 913.387.4313
Mike 913.269.7595
Contributing Authors Julie Bruno Debbie Corum Sara Clark Mike Deathe Heddie Leger Mary Sellaro Pat Hennessy Pawlene Journe Caroline Zuschek Nov 14 Author Correction Belle Wead
Publishing Policy: Articles printed in the MetroPet Magazine express the opinions of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent a 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. © 2014 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.
De-Stressing
Your Pets During the Holidays
by Pat Hennessy
The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is upon us. With it come shorter days and less time due to activities and commitments. One thing you don’t want to do is sell your pets short.
Other things to consider during the holiday season for your 4-legged and feathered companions, are the logistics of the holidays. They could use some extra TLC during this period:
Since we are entering into the season of giving, and giving thanks, take a moment to be thankful for the companionship of your furry and feathered family members. While you might find a cute collar or fanciful toy at the pet store, the thing that your companion would love most is time with you!
If you will be traveling, and take your pets with you, be sure they will be welcome and will have an appropriate setting at your desination. Be sure to provide them with “down” time where they can be calm and relax away from stressful situations. Offer them gentle and mindful touch, either TTouch (a light touch technique) or massage. If you will be leaving your pets, either boarding or with a sitter, ask for them to receive some special attention, such as an extra walk, gentle touch, relaxing with music, etc. It is important to reduce the stress level associated with travel or separation. We often overlook these details because our days are filled with activities that keep us preoccupied, while their days are filled with trivial things and we are the center of their universe.
A good way to remember your pets is to offer them something rewarding that you don’t normally do, such as going for a ride or going to a park if you usually go on walks in your neighborhood. Or, give them some extra special time like setting aside a weekly half hour play session with a favorite toy (squeaky ball or catnip toy on a string). Another nice reward for both you and your pet, during the (sometimes stressful) holiday season, would be a few minutes of daily engagement in a relaxing mode, such as meditation, massage, gentle touching or grooming, maybe to some soft music. www.metropetmag.com | December 2014
If you will be hosting guests in your home, provide your pets with a “safe” place to go so that they are not overwhelmed with the excitement or the stress. 5
If your dog enjoys being with people, she may participate for a small amount of time but should also have some quiet time away from the guests. That way you can focus on your guests and not have to worry if she is getting into something inappropriately such as a purse or someone’s holiday plate, or whether she is getting too excited or stressed. Be sure to give her something really good when you take her to a safe quiet location, so that she knows she is getting a reward and not being punished. Even if your cat is outgoing and would tolerate or enjoy guests, you are better off to isolate the cat to a room with a “do not disturb” sign or even use a large crate with a cover, to give her a safe place where she won’t accidently be let out. If you have a bird whose regular spot would be in the
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area of guests, you may want to consider placing the bird off in another area while you entertain. You would need to move the bird to the new area and let him get used to it for several days prior to entertaining. This would give the bird privacy and keep him from being exposed to drafts or startled from loud noise. Whether you travel or stay at home, if your pets will be around small children (especially if not accustomed to it), ensure that they are supervised in the presence of children and have a “safe” place to go when they need some space. This will secure the safety of your pets and the children. If you get that sad-eyed look, stare-me-down or vocal expression while you are helping yourself to the holiday treats, make sure you have something nutritious to offer your canine, feline or avian companion. Human foods can be dangerous to them, such as sweets (especially chocolate or raisins), or bones from a turkey (can splinter). Other human foods can be just too rich for their digestive systems. You could consider setting aside some healthy trimmings as you prepare the food, to offer as treats: • a piece of cooked sweet potato before the glaze is added • some scraps of meat when you debone the turkey, • a few cooked green beans prior to making the cassarole
• dried pumpkin seeds or apple peelings (not apple seeds) for the birds Your pet will feel included in the festivities and you won’t be adding any risk to their health. As you are decking the halls of your home, be mindful of the seasonal décor. It is not all pet friendly. Plants such as pointsettias and mistletoe are toxic. Tinsel and angel hair are dangerous - and what cat doesn’t want to climb the tree and go after something that moves or glistens? However, letting your cat climb in and out of empty boxes and bags could be quite amusing to him and making wrapping paper wads and tossing
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them around would make for good exercise and play. Sitting by the fireplace with a cat on your lap and a dog by your side, while the snow falls softly on the landscape — is a wonderful life!
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 816-522-7005, or visit the website www. n2paws.com.
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Muddy Water
by Mike Deathe
A wise woman once told me a story about “muddy water” and it really stuck with me. So much that it has actually become part of my dog training material. But before we get into the dog training part, let me tell you the story! A man had a jar filled with water and mud and a very tight lid. As he lived his life he continually shook the jar, he felt if he was not doing something he was wasting time. As you would guess he always had a jar full of, well “muddy water.” Unfortunately, his life mirrored that jar always being shaken, never clear — always muddy. The harder he tried, the harder he shook it, the harder it was to see through the water, or clear the haze of his life. That is until he met a very wise woman who tricked him into solving life’s greatest mystery with a lesson in patience and non-action.
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She walked right up to him and said hello. She then asked him to take both of her hands and just breathe. He told her he could not do that because after all he had his jar of muddy water he had to hold. She asked him to just set it down for just a moment, and hold both her hands. After all “what could it hurt?” He put down the jar and for just a moment held both her hands. When that moment was over she asked him to look at his jar and to tell her what he saw. He looked at the jar and saw clear water, with mud at the bottom. The water was clear none the less. So clear that you could see right through it, clear through to the other side! He learned right then and there that the only way to clear your jar, or your mind, is to do nothing — just breathe and allow things to settle. So what does this story have to do with dog training? Well many of you, who have worked with me concerning training have heard me say “You will achieve more
results with your dog by doing nothing than just by doing something.” Unfortunately, people feel that they have to be doing something all the time to affect change. In fact, in many cases, that just make the situation worse. Let me give you some examples. You give Fido a verbal command let’s say “down.” Well Fido just gives you a blank stare. You repeat the command over and over, but keep getting the same results until a wise person says, “quit saying the command and point to the ground” or “tap your foot” and just wait for the dog to process your command or let the dog work out what you want. And then it works – Fido lies down!
suggestion that you simply ignore the dog and walk away every time the pooch jumps. In essence you remove the one and only thing Fido wants and the reason for his jumping “Your Attention.” The fact remains that by engaging in simple non-action we allow our dogs the chance to experience life and decide what gets them the things they want, rather than us shaking the jar and muddying the water so that neither the dog nor us can see the answer. It all comes down to whether you are willing to just put down your jar, if only for a minute and let things clear on their own, or whether you choose to keep shaking.
Another example is a dog who likes to jump up and say hello to every person he meets. You have tried everything from yelling NO, slapping the dog on the nose and/ or even resorted to kneeing the dog in the chest. But nothing YOU DO changes the behavior. Again, until a very wise person makes the
Good luck with nothing!
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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Brrrrr It’s Cold Outside! The following guidelines will help you protect your companion animals when the mercury dips. 1. K eep your cat inside. Outdoors, felines can freeze, become lost or be stolen, injured or killed. Cats who are allowed to stray are exposed to infectious diseases, including rabies, from other cats, dogs and wildlife. 2. D uring the winter, outdoor cats sometimes sleep under the hoods of cars. When the motor is started, the cat can be injured or killed by the fan belt. If there are outdoor cats in your area, bang loudly on the car hood before starting the engine to give the cat a chance to escape.
3. Never let your dog off the leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm, dogs can easily become lost. Make sure your dog always wears ID tags. 4. Thoroughly wipe off your dog’s legs and stomach when he comes in out of the sleet, snow or ice. He can ingest salt, antifreeze or other potentially dangerous chemicals while licking his paws, and his paw pads may also bleed from snow or encrusted ice. 5. Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter, as a longer coat will provide more warmth. When you bathe your dog in the colder months, be sure to completely dry him before taking him out for a walk. Own a short-haired breed? Consider getting him a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly. For many dogs, this is regulation winter wear. 6. Never leave your dog or cat alone in a car during cold weather. A car can act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.
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7. P uppies do not tolerate the cold as well as adult dogs, and may be difficult to housebreak during the winter. If your puppy appears to be sensitive to the weather, you may opt to paper-train him inside. If your dog is sensitive to the cold due to age, illness or breed type, take him outdoors only to relieve himself. 8. D oes your dog spend a lot of time engaged in outdoor activities? Increase his supply of food, particularly protein, to keep him, and his fur, in tip-top shape. 9. L ike coolant, antifreeze is a lethal poison for dogs and cats. Be sure to thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. Â 10. M ake sure your companion animal has a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from all drafts. A cozy dog or cat bed with a warm blanket or pillow is perfect.
Source: ASPCA
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Ferrets by Julie Bruno
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be owned by an exotic pet? Maybe a ferret? Come on, you know that adorable little masked face has been making you want to pick one up and pet it. Irresistible aren’t they? It’s not just the mask, it’s their keen intellect, their curiosity, the ‘thieving’ of your socks, keys and anything they can get their little hands – and mouth – on, the ‘war dancing’ and other antics, and of course, most of all, their loving and playful nature... Welcome to the exciting world of ferrets! As special and life-changing as ferrets can be, they’re not for everyone. Unfortunately there is great need for charitable organizations like the Kansas City Ferret Hotline and I Am Ferret, both non-profit rescues here in Kansas City. Many people who see ferrets and other exotics in the pet store are swayed by how adorable they are, but aren’t really educated on how to care properly for the animal. When the ‘newness’ of owning an adorable exotic animal wears off, the realization sets in that this little guy needs special attention and cannot be left to his or her own devices like a cat. Sadly, many ferrets are then either neglected, dumped outdoors or surrendered to the shelter. Ferrets are not wild animals — they have been domesticated for over 2,000 years — so they will most likely die if released outside because they are illprepared to live without their human family. Ferrets are not rodents. They are members of the mustelidae family and are related to otters, weasels, minks and wolverines. They are obligate carnivores, meaning they must eat meat and cannot digest fruits, vegetables or grains. They should also not be given sugary treats. Ferrets are highly curious, people-oriented animals. They are extremely playful and enjoy playing both with other ferrets and their human families. Ferrets usually get along well with other pets, like cats and dogs, but because they are fearless, ensuring their environment is safe or “ferret proof ” is very important before you open your home to a ferret.
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The Kansas City Ferret Hotline operates a 24hour hotline to offer advice and assistance to ferret parents not only locally, but also all over the United States, Canada, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Through these hotline calls, the Kansas City Ferret Hotline has been able to reunite lost ferrets with their owners, help owners find veterinarians in their area who specialize in treating ferrets and so much more. So, is a ferret right for your family? Well there is one sure-fire way to find out…volunteer! The Kansas City Ferret Hotline has many volunteer opportunities for adults and for families. It is the perfect way for anyone who is curious about ferrets to be able to learn about ferrets, how to care for them and to be able to play with these cutie-pies. How different is ferret care from, let’s say, dog care? For their own safety, ferrets should be kept in a cage large enough for them to walk around in when they cannot be supervised. Ferrets will sleep an average of 18 hours a day, like some cats do. But when they are awake, they should be outside of their cage interacting with their family. In fact, ferrets will adapt to your work and home schedule, so they will most likely sleep when you are out of the house and will be up and ready to play when you get home.
it’s time to play, some ferrets may initiate play by putting a paw on your foot, jumping at your legs or even nipping the top of your foot as if to say, “Hey, you! Let’s play the ‘chase’ game! Try to catch me!” How do I “ferret-proof ” my house? Ferret-proofing isn’t unlike childproofing and involves putting child locks on cabinets (especially those that contain harmful products and chemicals), using baby gates for certain areas of your home and blocking electrical outlets with plastic safety plugs. Remember, if a ferret can get its head into something, he or she can squeeze the rest of the way in. Ferrets can open doors, pick things up and move items with their “hands.” Ferrets especially like diving into wastebaskets and digging everything out of them. So, as you can imagine, keeping the bathroom door closed is probably wise. Unfortunately, due to various factors, some ferret parents have to surrender their ferrets to the rescue. Since ferrets bond with their humans, it is heartbreaking
Due to their high intellect, ferrets require a great deal of direct interaction with their people, other pets and other ferrets. They are also extremely curious and enjoy being around their people. So, when www.metropetmag.com | December 2014
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for everyone involved. The Kansas City Ferret Hotline will work with ferret parents who need help in order to keep their ferrets, but sometimes the ferrets will end up at the rescue in the end. The rescue is run solely by volunteers who absolutely love and adore the ferrets and care for them in their homes. All of our volunteers do their best to make the transition from their former home to the rescue and then to their new forever home as easy as possible for the ferrets.
Because of the ever-increasing need, the Kansas City Ferret Hotline is in need of not only volunteers, foster families, and forever homes, but also donations of goods like food, bedding, toys, treats as well as funds to assist in paying vet bills and buying critically needed medicines.
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If you’d like to learn more about ferrets or how to get involved, please get in contact with us. You can visit our website at www.ferrethotline.com, join our Facebook group (Kansas City Ferret Hotline Association) e-mail us at kansascityferrethotline@ gmail.com, or don’t hesitate to call the hotline number at 913596-0600.
Say What You Mean
Mean What You Say by Mary Sellaro
I was recently shopping at a popular large box pet supply store. There was a woman in the store with her dog, a young, cute golden retriever mix. The dog was excited, pulling on the leash and jumping up. The dog’s human was attempting to shop and in an effort to control the dog she kept repeating sit, down, stay over and over. If the dog understood any of what was being said to her, she did not respond with a notable demonstration. The woman became increasingly frustrated and finally took the dog and left. The entire event in reality only lasted about two minutes; however, without a doubt to the person involved, it seemed like an hour. I wondered if this scenario was relayed later, how it would be told, most likely, the dog would be blamed for her “bad behavior”. The actuality of the situation is the dog is not to blame. In the dog’s defense, there is a distinct difference between “hearing” and “listening”. The definition of hearing is to “perceive sound,” while the meaning of listen is “to take notice of www.metropetmag.com | December 2014
or pay attention to.” The woman’s repeated attempts to gain the dog’s attention, followed by speaking louder in frustration only served to stimulate the dog further. The situation would have had a much better outcome if the dog was trained to respond to the first cue or command given while being exposed gradually to an environment full of distractions.
Keep your voice effective
While we train our dogs to respond to basic words and phrases, voice fluctuation is a key component in the way your dog will react to what is being said. The intention behind the voice must be clear, whether it is praise or correction. It is a very common problem for a dog to seemingly “ignore” what is being said to them. The value of the voice in the ability to motivate your dog is essential. Praise and correction are important factors in training a dog and in either case, timing is of the essence. 15
In the case of reward, the dog or puppy must be praised as soon as the correct response is given. Praise needs to be effective, but not to the extent that they become distracted, lose interest in training, or appear bored with the reward process. Avoid using the praise tone for general conversation with the dog. Keep in mind, praise is earned. The most effective way for a verbal correction to have impact is to warn
the dog when they are thinking about giving a negative response to a command or cue. Dogs live in the moment and will not understand or make the desired connection if they are corrected after the fact. Verbal correction, for example, “no” or an unpleasant sound, needs to be firm, but not traumatic and not repetitive. If the situation is such you cannot reinforce a command or cue, do not attempt in the first place. Remember, correction is not fair unless consistent tolerance is practiced and clear rules are defined.
Safety Concerns
Do you consider it important for your dog to respond to a command or cue the first time being asked? Or does it depend on the circumstances? A surprising consequence of not consistently expecting a quick reaction is safety. There may come a time when a prompt response can save a dog’s life. For example, a situation can become a tragedy in a matter of minutes if a dog is running toward the street while someone is yelling “come” repeatedly, and the dog doesn’t turn around or stop in time. In all fairness, we can’t expect a dog to come the first time if that doesn’t hold true with everything we teach. The following training tips will help to build a good foundation for predictability:
Duration, Distraction, Distance and Reliability Duration
•T each the concept • S tay physically close to reward or correct desired behavior •B uild up the time the dog responds positively to a command
Distraction
•P ractice at home — start out with no distractions. •B uild up to low level (predictable) distractions •G radually move up to higher level distractions and environments
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• Work all over the house, in the backyard and front yard at various times • Practice standing up, sitting down in a chair and sitting on the floor • Expand the experience — take it outside in an area of controlled distractions — the neighborhood — dog friendly shops, walking trails, restaurant patios • Proof as you go if there are any problems or a lack of understanding, go back a step.
Distance
• Once the dog has achieved duration and distraction with an exercise, you can begin adding physical distance. • Start slowly, literally backing one foot away from the dog initially, and adding steps if the dog is successful. • If the dog experiences difficulty, go back to the previous step.
Reliability
All of the above components are necessary for the dog to be predicable in their training. We can’t expect reliability until the dog has achieved success at each step.
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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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Second Chance Pet Adoptions by Sara Clark
Mr Winky — the SCPAKC mascot. Photo credit: SCPAKC.
Second Chance Pet Adoptions (SCPAKC) has called 9237 N. Oak Trafficway in Kansas City home since June 2013, and since then the adoption center has been transformed into a fun, energetic, gem of a place for both animals and animal-lovers. The center touts an array of small dogs to choose from with tons of glittered, studded, polka-dotted and bedazzled leashes, collars, beds, and doggie diapers to accompany the adopted pet home. SCPAKC was founded by a small group of dedicated folks with a true love of animals and the determination to help find permanent, loving, responsible, safe homes for Kansas City’s “unwanted” pets. Youngest granddaughter helping with kittens. Photo credit: SCPAKC.
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Deanna Clark, director of SCPAKC, began the organization in 1997 after finding out a dog she had found and turned in to a local shelter had been euthanized.
“I was heartbroken that this perfectly good dog just ‘ran out of time at the shelter.’ I also realized that my donation wasn’t going to fix the problem. I needed to give my time and determination to this,” Deanna says.
says. “Biweekly baths and grooming, walking on a leash, basic commands, getting along with other animals and kids are essential to these animal’s success.”
A lot of the animals taken into the For the last 17 years, SCPAKC has program are former breeder dogs operated as a no-kill, 501 c3 not-forlike Jasmine. “They start off as a ball profit organization with the goals of of matted fur or completely hairless. adopting out homeless dogs and cats They are scared and have not had to responsible homes, training animals much human interaction. This is SCPAKC volunteer bathing a furbaby. with problematic behavior, and working where your donations go,” Deanna Photo credit: SCPAKC. with the community to enhance both the says. “We typically don’t bring the lives of pets and pet-owners. dogs in to the center until they are acting and looking much better, so not everyone sees the damage. It’s a real SCPAKC started out at Pet Food Save Mart in Shawnee. transformation between the before and after. But when Then for years, they operated out of a motor home. The you send them with their ‘furever’ home and get those program has been both small and large through the updates you realize it is all worth it. If only that first dog years while moving throughout the KC area, on both I rescued could have gotten the same chance.” sides of the state line from Merriam to Smithville. What sets SCPAKC apart from other rescues is training and real-life situations. “Training is a vital part of what we do. Many animals are turned into shelters by their owners based on behavioral issues, so we work through that problematic behavior. Correcting these issues make the animal a better fit for their next home, “Deanna
Jasmine being adopted. Photo credit: SCPAKC. www.metropetmag.com | December 2014
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It’s also a family affair. Three generations of Clark’s (Deanna’s daughter and granddaughters) help with the adoption center. “From sewing Donation Store items to socializing the kittens, these girls are involved,” Deanna says. “My oldest granddaughter can’t wait to “take over the business” while the youngest who is highly allergic to the kittens, can’t keep her hands off of them. It’s in the blood!” SCPAKC also has great volunteers. “We have a corps group of ladies that we couldn’t do without,” Deanna says. “They help us with computer entry, conduct leash work, weekly cat toenail trims, spend weekend mornings (before we open) to let the cats play, conduct thorough groom jobs (including bows) and constantly work with the animals.”
Adopatable animals at the SCPAKC. Photo credit: SCPAKC.
The “Donation Boutique” aspect of the adoption center features locally made goods and accessories, all aimed at offering affordable unique items while also raising money for future projects. “We try to keep it warm and inviting, but to push our overall mission: to help homeless animals find the right home.”
To check out future events (Holiday Boutique — 12/6/14; 3rd Annual 5K-4/2015), DONATE to save a life, or to see all that SCPAKC has to offer please check us out at www.2ndchancepets.net and LIKE US on facebook.com/scpakc.
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Happy & Healthy:
Holiday Tips for Pet Owners
by Caroline Zuschek Nothing is more adorable than a family holiday picture where Fido—or even worse, Garfield—is trying to ditch his matching sweater or the first steps of a puppy joining her new family on Christmas morning, toddling through discarded wrapping paper and snuggling in a giant stocking abandoned on the floor. The holidays are a wonderful time to celebrate the ones you love—including your pets! Here are some dos and don’ts for a safe holiday season with your furry family members.
Food:
Some holiday foods can be extremely dangerous to your pets. Everyone knows that it’s dangerous to feed a cat or dog chocolate, but did you know it is also dangerous to feed them garlic, onions, nutmeg, turkey or ham bones, beer, macadamia nuts, walnuts, and turkey skin? All of these common holiday items can lead to upset stomachs, lethargy, and may require a costly vet visit. Also beware of gifts for you that your dog may discover before you. For example, my father gets a box of dark chocolate every year from my uncle. It is his favorite holiday gift. One year, we didn’t know which gift contained the chocolate, so we put it under the tree with all of our other www.metropetmag.com | December 2014
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gifts. Fast forward to Christmas Eve and our tiny Bichon Frise, Sugar, lying unmoving next to the box—now unwrapped and completely devoured. Spoiler: Sugar was fine after a few days at the vet. Spoiler: A 20 lb. dog can eat 2 lbs. of chocolate. But fear not, there are still things you can share with your pet to make their holidays special. For dogs, sweet potatoes and pumpkin are wonderful and nutritious. In moderation, these foods can ease overfull bellies and make a normal bowl of dog food a treat. Just add a couple of spoonfuls onto your dog’s normal dinner and watch him eat with renewed gusto. Be sure to share these with your dog before adding nutmeg or cinnamon, however. For cats and dogs, combine 1 cup minced turkey, ½ cup cooked pumpkin, 1 tablespoon of oil, and 1 tablespoon of kelp in a large bowl and mix together well. Then, roll the mixture into balls and serve to your pets as a special treat!
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MetroPet Magazine | December 2014
Gifts:
I admit it. I am one of those people who shops and hides toys for my pets in the days leading up to the holidays. Imagine my surprise when I learned my pets—like kids across the country—snoop to find their gifts. Picture me returning from work to see my cat, Cash, chewing through a plastic bag to retrieve a catnip mouse, the tattered ends of the bag hanging from his whiskers. When I left for work, the PetsMart bag was on the top shelf of my closet. It was beyond cute. But it was also scary. What if he had ingested a part of the bag? If you buy for your pets, immediately remove any excess wrap or binding from them and either give the gifts immediately or store them somewhere your pets can’t reach like in a cabinet or trunk. Keep in mind; they can smell their treats, even when you cannot.
Don’t be me. Don’t let them ruin the surprise before it is time.
Also, investigate safe pet toys before purchasing. Though no toy is 100% safe, some toys are better than others. After talking with my vet, for dogs I’d recommend the plastic Nylabones. Your dog can’t eat these too quickly and obstruct his bowels and they don’t leave a gooey trail of uneaten, slobber-softened bone mess for you to clean up. If your dog likes a rope toy and enjoys a hearty game of tug-of-war, consider a toy made from blanket fleece as opposed to one made from easily ingestible string. For cats, consider a laser light that you can shine on the floor for them to chase after, or some good old-fashioned cat nip that you can sprinkle on their favorite scratching mat or post. And don’t worry if your cat seems to be addicted; I went through this with our cat, Kitten, and launched a house-wide just-say-no campaign. It didn’t work, and my vet told me the occasional over indulgence in cat nip is not cause for concern.
Decorations:
If you fear your pet has become ill from ingesting something forbidden, don’t hesitate to call your vet or a local 24-hour emergency vet clinic. Usually, these places are great about answering questions without charging a fee and will let you know if your pet needs to be seen immediately.
Charities:
If you want to honor your pet this Christmas, you can do so by making a money or gift donation to a local rescue. Caroline Zuschek is an attorney and writer by day and an animal rescuer with The Rescue Project by night. She lives in Kansas with her husband, Brandon, and their rescue pets: Josie, Chopin, Cash, Dot, and Jasper.
Avoid Holly, tinsel, and if you have Mistletoe, hang it high. Holly and Mistletoe are highly toxic to pets and contribute to the 10% increase the Pet Poison Hotline sees in calls around the holidays. Tinsel, while not toxic, is simply too irresistible for most feline family members to avoid and can be easily ingested, which can result in a cat in need of holiday surgery. On the plus side, don’t worry too much about Poinsettias. Though these plants are mildly toxic to pets, unless your pet eats the entire potted plant, medical intervention is seldom required. If you like to have a Christmas tree, be sure to firmly plant it in its stand to avoid the all too familiar experience of having it knocked over by a climbing cat or a rambunctious dog. If you prefer a live tree, beware of your pet drinking from the water. The water can gather bacteria, and fertilizers are often toxic to pets. If you change the water often and avoid harsh plant foods, however, you can minimize many its potential dangers.
www.metropetmag.com | December 2014
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Cha Ching by Debbie Corum
“That would be Maggie’s.”
My casual response had brought a raised eyebrow from the manager of the doggy daycare establishment earlier that afternoon as she handed me the remains of a leather dog collar. Maggie’s dog collar. She’s our Welsh/wire-hair fox terrier slash billy goat mix. The city and rabies tags jingled together in my hand as I turned the stub over to inspect it. All sixteen inches had been gnawed down to the metal buckle within no time, they claimed. I tossed it onto the kitchen table with the rest of the clutter and with a sigh, returned my attention to updating our expenditures in QuickBooks.
“Let’s see … that’s nineteen ninety-five, plus tax.” My fingers moved, deftly, over the computer keys to include the cost of the replacement collar. Correction 24
MetroPet Magazine | December 2014
— two replacement collars. This made the second one devoured in less than six months. The first had disappeared at the groomer’s, causing quite a stir there, too. I did the mental multiplication and moved on. Add to that figure, the cost of said doggie daycare because Maggie needed some socializing after mangling the plastic clasp on her old harness during a fit of boredom the week prior. I tallied up the twenty dollars for daycare and the expense of the replacement harness with a twinge of guilt. After all, we did owe her a larger size due to her increased girth and all over the long, boring winter months. I shrugged my shoulders and hit the enter key.
“Whew! Things do add up. …”
What about that jumbo size bag of dog food I
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ purchased last Tuesday because the advertisement claimed it gave you more bang for the buck? Beads of perspiration dotted my upper lip as I located the sales slip in question. Ouch! Why hadn’t I noticed that outlandish price at the time? And what of this? Those dog biscuits claiming to clean teeth and save on vet bills cost that much? Why, it’s robbery! My backbone stiffened. My cheeks felt warm.
“Speaking of vet bills …”
I flipped through the remaining receipts. How much had they charged me for her recent series of shots? And flea treatment. And heartworm pills! E-gads! And all I had to show for it was some tag with a bright orange color that will rub off within months!
www.metropetmag.com | December 2014
I drummed my fingers on the table as the growing list of figures cha-ching, cha-chinged through my mental calculator. Had we blown that much money on our grandchildren in a month’s time?
My eyes narrowed as I turned in my chair to glare down at Maggie stretched out on the floor beside me. With front paws crossed and halo aloft she lifted her head and gazed up at me with those gorgeous brown eyes of hers. Her chaste devotion turned my spine to butter.
“Does mommy need to get you a little treat? Hm?” Debbie Corum is a resident of Bates City. She is a mom, grandmother and a fur-mom!
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Chip’s
NEXT ADVENTURE
AMBITIOUS by Heddie Leger
Recap November 2014: Let’s just be grateful Chip has that chance, not everyone in the accident was that lucky. Remember the little dog in the car, when it flew through the air and landed on the ground, it was not breathing and there was nothing they could do.” “Okay, Allen,” I heard Penelope say through her tears, “I will believe that Chip will someday be alright.” Then I could hear the door open and the nurse some in and ask them to leave. “Good night Chip,” they said, “we will be back in the morning.” I did not feel quite so alone any more.
Well, I guess if Allen and Penelope are going to have faith, believe and expect good things for me, then who am I to dispute that. I am going to join them in their faith walk. It seems quite ambitious in the face of the odds I have been given, however, I expect that with their love, I am going to somehow heal and survive. I am embracing all the things my MawMaw taught me and all the things I have learned through all my experiences in the past few years. I am not ready to give up yet.
I can hear her writing and typing, but still cannot see anything. However, I am beginning to see some fuzzy objects out of one eye. It is just so hard to focus. She then carries me to a pool of warm water that feels sooooooo good, it bubbles all around my body, and I am starting to get some sensation of feeling during this time. It does not last all day, but at least it gives me hope. I cannot do anything on my own yet, and still have an IV fluid needle in my leg.
My legs still are not working, but I am feeling some One day I thought I heard MaMaw talking to me, but tingling in them. Every day, Allen and Penelope come then I realized it was a dream. It sure did seem real in and do the exercises that the animal physical therapist though. In the dream, we were walking with the big taught them how Black dog. I cannot to do with me and remember his name every other day the now. We were on the AMBITIOUS — Aspiring to rise above present therapist comes in beach and the waves position or condition. Greatly desirous; eager and does the exercises were washing over us, it showing much effort to rise to the challenge. and writes things felt like the waves of the down in her book, ocean were massaging 26
MetroPet Magazine | December 2014
“Intelligence without ambition is a bird without wings.” — Salvador Dalí “Persistence. Perfection. Patience. Power. Prioritize your passion. It keeps you sane.” “Find a purpose to serve, not a lifestyle to live.” — Criss Jami
“Never give up. It’s like breathing—once you quit, your flame dies letting total darkness extinguish every last gasp of hope. You can’t do that. You must continue taking in even the shallowest of breaths, continue putting forth even the smallest of efforts to sustain your dreams. Don’t ever, ever, ever give up.” — Richelle E. Goodrich, Smile Anyway: Quotes, Verse, & Grumblings for Every Day of the Year
our bodies and the sun was so warm, it seemed to warm our entire body all the way through. I could see in my dream as clear as day, like I used to. There were seagulls flying overhead and Allen threw a Frisbee to me which I jumped higher, higher, higher to catch, it felt like I had wings and was flying with the seagulls to catch the Frisbee, then I looked down and started to fall. I heard Penelope call to me, to hold onto the string of the balloon that was attached to the Frisbee, I reached up……….and then I woke up with a start…….I felt like I was falling, but I was not, I was still lying in the same bed listening to Penelope and Allen talking. Penelope whispered, “but Allen, that sounds so dangerous and ambitious…. how do we know it will help and not hurt Chip? And how do we know if it will work? I could hear Allen breath really deep and sigh, and say, “well Pen, what choice do we have, just let him lie here and die?” Die????? What did they mean “die”!!!!!!! I am not ready to die, even if I cannot see, even if I could use just three of my legs, or even two legs, I would try anything, anything at all, I would work so hard and be so ambitious, I would never give up.
HUMAN EDUCATION ACTIVITY Have you ever been a situation that seemed hopeless? Write down the situation and how you felt. Draw a picture, or make a collage of how you learned how to overcome that situation. What did you do? Visit a veteran’s home and listen to a veteran share some of his or her survival stories. www.metropetmag.com | December 2014
Story Discussion Tips: 1. Was Chip able to see anything yet? 2. What was the one thing that was helping him the most? 3. What happened in Chip’s dream that scared him? 4. What did Chip overhear Penelope and Allen talking about? 5. What did Chip decide to do?
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.
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Meet the Breed
December Pet of the Month
The Poodle The Poodle is considered to be one of the most versatile breeds in existence. There are three varieties with the Standard Poodle being recognized as the oldest and first of the breed. This special dog breed has achieved a high level fame as a water dog. Not only does this dog love water, but is a very reliable retriever. In addition, due to their remarkable scenting ability they have been used for Truffle hunting in Europe, where this edible fungus is a delicacy. The smaller version of the poodle is preferred for scenting and digging up the fungus, as they do less damage to the delicate truffles. The Poodle has long been regarded as the national dog of France. However, the English word “poodle” comes from the German pudel or pudelin, meaning to splash in the water. This breed supposedly originated in Germany, where they have been recognized as reliable retrievers and gun dogs. The “Poodle clip” was developed by hunters to help the dogs move through the water more
efficiently. The longer areas of hair retained on the body were meant to protect vital organs and joints which would be susceptible to the cold. The poodle’s coat is considered hypoallergenic due to the fact they do not shed and have little to no dander, which may reduce allergic reactions, but this quality requires daily brushing and regular professional grooming. If the coat is left to grow long it will cord naturally.
There are three recognized sizes that are acceptable for the poodle. The Standard Poodle stands 15 inches at the top of the shoulder. Any Poodle which is 15 inches or less in height is not considered a Standard Poodle.
❚ Materials ❚
Repair ❚ Commercial/Residential
The Miniature Poodle stands 15 inches or under at the top of the shoulders and no less than 10 inches. Any Poodle which is over 15 inches or 10 inches or less at the top of the shoulders is not considered a Miniature Poodle. The Toy Poodle stands 10 inches or under at the top of
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MetroPet Magazine | December 2014
the shoulders. Any Poodle which is more than 10 inches at the top of the shoulders is not to be considered as a Toy Poodle. Each of these sizes is considered one breed which is known as the Poodle. Poodles are definitely not foofoo or sofa dogs. They are very eager-to-please, and are highly trainable. They are not only a “jack of all trades” that love to work closely with their human, they also are a master of tricks and all kinds of dog sports. They are highly athletic and intelligent. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best athlete of the Poodle family; however, all Poodles can be trained with great success. The most common serious health issues of Standard Poodles includes Addison’s disease, gastric dilatation, thyroid issues (hyperthyroid and hypothyroid), epilepsy, sebaceous adenitis, juvenile renal disease, hip dysplasia, and cancer. The most common of minor issues is ear infections. Ear infections are a problem in all poodle varieties because their nonshedding coat grows into the ear canal, where it traps wax and dirt. Ear problems can be minimized by proper ear care, including regular cleaning and plucking of hair within the ear canal. If you feel a Poodle is in your future you are in for an exciting, joyful www.metropetmag.com | December 2014
adventure. This breed is smart, active, athletic, loyal, fun-loving with a clown like personality, yet dignified and regal. A versatile companion that will share life with you for 12 or more years depending on the size variety. The smaller version generally will live a few years longer than the Standard size Poodle. Interesting Facts about the poodle: • Th e Toy Poodle achieved great popularity in France and was known worldwide as a “trick dog.” They were court favorites during the reign of Louis XVI and Queen Anne. •U nited States of America president Grover Cleveland owned a Poodle
Santa Paws Stops Here! ming groo ble la avai
Toys, gifts, treats for cats and dogs www.treats-unleashed.com 913.451.2000 4209 • 4209 W. 119th • Leawood, KS 29
Chip’s Corner
PAWZZLE
by Pawlean Journe
Answers to this Pawzzle can be found in the Breed of the Month story on page 28. 30
MetroPet Magazine | December 2014
ACROSS 2. The largest size of poodle is known as the _____________. 7. They are not only known for their retrieving ability, but also as reliable _________ dogs. 10. This dog breed supposedly orginated in what country? 13. The poodle clip was actually developed by ________________. 14. Due to their energy, size and strength the poodle is
16. This is considered one of the most _______________ breeds in existence. 21. Lesser known fact is that the Poodle makes a great ____________. 23. The most common minor health issue with this breed is ____ infections. 24. If the coat is left long naturally is will _____. 25. This dog is highly trainable due to being highly ___________.
considered to be a great ________________.
DOWN 1. They are not only a “jack of all trades� they also are ______ of many tricks and dog sports. 3. The smaller Poodle is often used for finding truffles due to causing less ___________ to the fungus. 4. Due to being eager to please, the poodle is highly
18. This breed gained worldwide attention as a ______ dog. 19. This breed needs regular daily ____________. 20. The name Poodle comes from the German word ____________. 22. In Europe, the Poodle is famed as a _______ dog.
____________. 5. The Truffle is an edible __________ considered to be
November Pawzzle Answers
a delicacy. 6. The Poodle has long been known as the National dog of what country? 8. Due to their remarkable sense of smell they are used for hunting ____________. 9. The Poodle coat is supposed to be ____________. 11. How many varieties are within the Poodle breed? 12. Pudel means to _____________ in water. 15. This breed can be prone to _______________ issues. 17. This breed does not _________.
www.metropetmag.com | December 2014
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New Listings in Blue
Pet Services Directory Carpet Cleaning
Adoption
Bock’s Steam Star
Boarding & Daycare
Broadmore Kennels 20614 W 47th Street Shawnee, KS www.greatplainsspca.org Great Plains SPCA’s mission is to save, 913-441-5026 Great Plains SPCA (913) 742-7326
protect and improve the lives of animals, while strengthening the relationship between pets and human companions. Locations in Merriam, KS, and Independence, MO, offer veterinary care, adoption, rescue and education programs.
Second Chance Pet Adoptions SCPAKC
www.broadmorekennels.com Five star luxury for your furry family members. Deluxe accommodations provide the comforts and love of home in a country-like setting in Johnson County on 10 privately owned acres. We provide one of a kind care like no other! Camp Bow Wow, Lee’s Summit 1010 SE Hamblen Road Lee’s Summit, MO 816-246-7833
www.campbowwow.com/ 913-814-7471 us/mo/leessummit 2ndchancepets.net At Camp BowWow Lee’s Summit your pups reap the benefits of Second Chance Pet Adoptions exercise and socialization while having lots of fun romping & playing with their is a NO-Kill foster home adoption canine friends. organization dedicated to helping homeless animals find loving, responPooches in sible, safe homes. Visit our center for Paradise adoptions and unique boutique items. 7200 Wyandotte We are open M, W, F, S. Kansas City, MO 9237 N Oak Kansas City, MO 64155 816-361-3388 913-814-7471 • 2ndchancepets.net www.poochesparadise.com Wayside Waifs 816-761-8151
www.waysidewaifs.org Wayside Waifs is a charitable animal shelter whose purpose is to improve the quality of animal welfare in our community by providing humane treatment and advocating for companion animals. It offers rescue, adoption, education programs, and pet memorial services.
Be listed in this Directory
for details call Barbara 913-548-1433 Mike 913-269-7595
Pooches Paradise was created with your dogs needs in mind. We are dedicated to offering the finest in boarding, daycare, obedience training and spa treatments. Visit us at our mid-town location one block off Wornall, on 72nd Street.
Tails R’ Waggin 6976 W 152nd Terrace Overland Park, KS 913-685-9246
www.tailsrwaggin.com Tails R’ Waggin provides the finest daycare, boarding, grooming and training for your pet found. We are your pet’s destination of choice to play, stay and be treated like one of the family. Come by for a tour today!
913-438-7767 • www.steamstar.net
Call today for a Free pet odor removal consultation/inspection. Bock’s Steam Star and their IICRC trained team of cleaning experts specialize in carpet, upholstery, tile/grout, area rugs, hard surface cleaning and pet odor removal.
Environment
Mid-America Regional Council 600 Broadway, Suite 200 Kansas City, MO 64105 816-474-4240
http://www.marc.org/Environment For more than 40 years, MARC has served the Greater Kansas City region, advancing regional progress through leadership, planning and action.
Grooming Best Friends Pet 13008 State Line Road Leawood, KS • 913.498.1397 Peculiar, MO • 816.984.5481
www.bestfriendspet.us Best Friends Pet is a full service salon with professional, gentle, caring pet stylists. Call us today! Leawood: Tues open at 7:30 am, Wed-Sat open at 9:00. Peculiar: Sat 9-4 Broadmore Kennels 20614 W 47th Street Shawnee, KS 913-441-5026
www.broadmorekennels.com Broadmore Kennels now offers grooming! Groomer Cynthia Resig has been grooming for over six years and has extensive experience with different breeds. Call her today for 20% off your first groom! Call for details!
Veterinarians
Insurance
Pet Scarves
Scott & Sara Coffman
Auto Home Insurance Group is an independent insurance agency specializing in auto, home, business, workers compensation, life and health insurance. Our experienced staff members are always happy to help you with your insurance needs.
913.839.1478 • www.AutoHomeKC.com
In Home Pet Sitting Paws and Relaxx In-Home Pet Sitting You no longer have to stress about what you are going to do with your pets when you go out of town. You can put your mind at ease knowing your pet is comfortable in their own home! There when you can’t be! 954-618-3648 • www.pawsandrelaxx.com paws.and.relaxx@gmail.com
Pet Friendly Car Dealership Lee’s Summit Subaru 2101 NE. Independence Ave Lee’s Summit, MO • 816-251-8600
www.leessummitsubaru.com This pet friendly dealership offers a wide selection of new and used Subaru’s at low prices. Check out our service department.
Pet Food, Supplies, Grooming
Treats Unleashed 4209 West 119th St. Leawood, KS 913-451-2000
www.treats-unleashed.com Treats Unleashed is a gourmet pet specialty store with an in-store bakery. It also offers a full line of pet supplies & food, a selfserve bath area & grooming services.
Pet Food Distribution American Midwest Distributors 820 Atlantic Street North Kansas City, MO • 816-842-1905
www.americanmidwestkc.com A local distributor which supplies local stores with Earthborn Holistic and ProPac pet food, and many other products.
Carol’s Dog Scarves Kansas City, MO • 816-728-2480
Arbor Creek Animal Hospital 15971 S. Bradley Rd Olathe, KS • 913-764-9000
Real Estate
Aid Animal Hospital 8343 Wornall Rd Kansas City, MO 816-363-4922
www.etsy.com/shop/CarolsDogScarves The best dog scarf your dog will ever wear! Can’t be pulled off, torn off, chewed off or rolled off. Stylish, chic or just plain cute — let your dog make its own fashion statement! Order online at our Etsy Shop.
Martin and Suzie Taggart Team REALExperience 913.667.9789
TeamREALExperience@gmail.com REALExperienceREALEstate.com
These full-time, pet-friendly real estate professionals (together with Sherman their rescue dog) enjoy helping pet-friendly people with their real estate experience! They understand selling a home with a pet & buying a home that is pet friendly can be challenging. Team REALExperience is here to help you & your pets with your move! Keller Williams Realty Legacy Partners, Inc.
www.acanimalhospital.com We believe that every pet has a different set of healthcare needs. Utilizing a blend of traditional medicine and holistic veterinary gives everyone options!
www.aidanimalhospital.com For 37 years, Aid Animal Hospital has provided quality veterinary medical & surgical services to Waldo and entire Kansas City area. We pride ourselves on quality customer service. Cat Clinic of Johnson County 9421 Pflumm Road Lenexa, KS 913-541-0478
www.catclinicofjc.com A feline exclusive clinic! Your cat is an important part of your family and you want the best medical care available. Our team is ready to provide cutting edge care.
We’re Looking For Your Favorite…pet photos and pet stories. We all
have them — those wonderful, goofy, silly or funny photos of our pets. The photos we put on our phones, desks, send out to friends. The ones that make us smile when we have had a bad day. We all have that wonderful story of how our pet made us smile, even when we should have been mad, or how we fell in love with those eyes, or that story of how our pet made a difference for someone else. MetroPet is looking for those photos and those stories. We are looking for the cutest, goofiest, funniest photo of your pet and the best stories. So send them to us at info@metropetmag.com and we will publish them in a future issue.
Note: Please send the highest resolution photo possible.
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MetroPet Magazine | December 2014