June/July 2016
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Articles 5 Creature Feature 6 To Play or Not to Play? 9 Mosquitoes, TIcks and Fleas - Oh My! 12 One More Responsiblity for a Pet Parent
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14 Answers to Spay and Neuter Questions 16 Resource Control
18 Zoonotic Diseases: What is your Risk? 20 Speak Up for Your Dog 24 Meet the Breed — Boston Terrier 26
26 Assistance Dogs 28 Pawzzle 30 Chip’s Adventure 33 KC Pet Services Directory 34 STL Pet Services Directory
Dear Readers: Summer is here! That can be both good and bad. It is good to be outside, and spend more time with our pets. But, it can be bad when it is super hot outside. If you leave your pets Chip — Our Founder outside, please provide them with shade and plenty of water. NEVER leave your pet inside a closed vehicle or a space that isn’t cool. Heat stroke can be deadly to pets. Please also be aware of Fleas, Ticks and Mosquitoes Oh My! The article on page 9 offers some great tips on how to control these pests.
who need a little extra help. Please read the article on page 26 to learn how a local group is helping to train these precious animals. What is Spay and Neuter? Why is it beneficial? The article on page 14 provides some answers to these questions. Have you ever heard of a Zoonotic Disease? The article on page 18 provides some answers about these diseases, and the risks, symptoms, and preventions. Finally, be sure to meet the breed (Boston Terrier), and solve this issue’s Pawzzle.
Make sure your pets have extra water.
Have you ever had, or wanted to have, a goldfish? The Creature Feature offers some interesting information about them and some great tips on how to care for these interesting animals. Dog parks can be great fun, if you know the rules and P.S. Can you help us grow? Yes. Please support the your dog is ready. Check out the great article on page advertisers in this issue and tell them “I saw your ad in 5. This issue also includes two great training articles MetroPet magazine.” Kansas City readers – please like us Resource Control and Speak Up for your Dog. at https://www.facebook.com/metropetmag - St. Louis Being a pet parent is a lot of work. The article on page readers – please like us at https://www.facebook.com/ stlmetropetmag 12 discusses the final responsibilities. Assistance dogs provide a valuable service to many
Publisher MetroPet Magazine info@metropetmag.com Editor/Production Manager Dan O’Leary editor@metropetmag.com Magazine Layout ROI Marketing 816.942.1600 • roi@kc.rr.com
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Contact MetroPet PO Box 480065 Kansas City, MO 64148 Phone: 913.548.1433 Fax: 913.387.4313
Contributing Authors
Mike Deathe Geoff Hall Pat Hennessy Pauline Journe Heddie Leger Lisa Rickards Mary Sellaro Lori Stiles Nancy Bush Piper
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. © 2016 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.
Creature Feature
Goldfish
Carassius auratus by Geoff Hall
Summary: The ubiquitous goldfish is recognizable to nearly everyone, but few know just how amazing this brightly colored fish truly is. Sex Differences/Size/Lifespan: Males in breeding condition will form keratinized tubercles on their gill plates and females tend to be larger and deeper bodied. Many goldfish can grow to over a foot in length and some can live as long as 30 years. Natural Habitat: Goldfish were bred and from the Prussian carp and domesticated around the 7th Century in China. Varieties/Costs: A nearly endless variety of breeds have been developed by people over the past centuries to create goldfish with scale, eye, size, color, fin, and body shape variations. Prices of goldfish can range from just a few cents to thousands of dollars depending on size and breed. Medical Care: Be sure to study potential signs of disease or illnesses common to freshwater fish prior to acquiring your goldfish. Other local aquarists or specialized websites can be helpful in identifying and treating illness. Care: Despite often being kept in small bowls, goldfish really are best suited to large aquariums with vigorous filtration or outdoor ponds. They are exceptionally messy feeders and will quickly foul smaller bodies of water with their waste. Goldfish require clean, cool, and welloxygenated water in order to thrive. Diet: Goldfish are primarily herbivorous and need a steady diet of plant-based foods.
Where to Buy: These fish can be found in nearly every pet store in the world and rarer breeds can be sought through private breeders and fish dealers on the Internet. Other: Never value your pet by only the monetary price you pay to acquire your pet. While your pet goldfish may only cost you several cents, remember that it is a living creature and that you have responsibility for its quality of life. Fun Fact: Goldfish are very intelligent creatures and can remember the faces of people that feed them apart from other people. Also, they have been shown to hold memories for over three months! Geoff Hall is President of Wayside Waifs, KC’s largest no kill pet adoption campus. Geoff brings to Wayside more than 20 years of experience in the animal welfare community. This includes serving as Chief Operating Officer of the Kansas City Zoo, General Curator of the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and as Executive Vice President/General Curator of the Phoenix Zoo. He is the proud owner of dogs, cats, birds and other pets! You may contact Geoff via email at CreatureFeature@WaysideWaifs.org.
To Play or Not to Play by Heddie Leger
That is the Question
Many people believe that dog parks are a great place to socialize their pet, but dog parks are not for everyone. Sometimes a play date is a better alternative for you and your dog. According to researchers at several universities, dogs have an inherent genetic need to socialize with other dogs. Dog parks can be chaotic and unpredictable as far as the activities and level of play the dogs engage in. There are no guarantees that the other dogs will be compatible with your dog. A private play date for your dog can be the solution for you. Below are a few simple tips to have a safe and successful play date for your pet: 6
MetroPet Magazine | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
• Dogs should meet first be on neutral ground. Neither dog will feel that their territory is being invaded and less likely to feel threatened.
• Don’t be afraid to be selective regarding size of dog and play style. Smaller dogs often play better with dogs close to their size. High energy dogs are often too overwhelming for dogs with a calmer play style. • Reward and reinforce the positive interactions that your dog displays in his/her behavior. • When you are comfortable with understanding your dog’s body language, you are ready to take
the dogs somewhere where they can play off leash. • Always be aware and watchful to make sure this play date is enjoyable for all the dogs.
Play Session Options Play sessions with a trainer are the best option for first time dog/puppy owners who may need a little extra coaching in learning dog body language and what it means when the dogs growl, pounce, chase, and bark during play. A supervised play group can help determine what is appropriate puppy play, and what may constitute “bullying.” Dogs and puppies should engage in role-reversal: chase/ be chased, pounce/be pounced on. Your dog will learn many lessons in a play date. If negative behavior is persistent, or accompanied with growling, lifting his lip, general overstimulation, or is “bullying,” find a trainer with a background in positive reinforcement who can help you redirect unruly play before it becomes a more serious behavioral issue. Meetup.com is fantastic resource for finding existing play groups in your area. You can search by breed, by location, or by type. Some dogs are intrinsically shy or introverted. With time, these dogs will likely come out of their shell, but don’t force them into play. If your dog seems nervous or shy, make sure there are plenty of places they can hide, and escape to. Play is an excellent way to exercise your dog, build socialization skills, and teach them how to behave around small dogs and big dogs alike. It’s a great way for your puppy to learn bite inhibition and become comfortable with different kinds of dogs.
Responsible Handler The most important aspect to enjoying your play date experience is to be a responsible handler.
• Use common sense. • You may feel you have the right to be there, however, you gain nothing by pushing your limit and risking a dog fight. If an out of control or dangerous dog shows up, leave the park. • Learn when the quiet and off-peak times are, those are the best times to be there with your dog. • Teach your dog a reliable recall. Immediately call your dog away from the pack, if a scuffle should arise. • Be more fun than other dogs at the dog park. When you go, play the games your dog absolutely loves to draw him/her away from the dog pack. • 100% of your of your focus should be on your dog, when your dog is off leash either on a play date or at the park, • Don’t just go on play dates or visit the dog park. Vary your interactions with your dog. Go for walks, go swimming, find ways to play or train in different locations.
Heddie is a Certified Humane Educational Specialist and Licensed Professional Coach of Canine LifeSkills. Her expertise in the area of the human/animal bond spans educational, home health, mental and physical health with people of all ages. Her programs have touched thousands of people in bringing them to a better understanding of the human/animal bond and the profound impact of a higher quality of life through those interactions. 8
MetroPet Magazine | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
Mosquitoes, Ticks, and Fleas,
Oh My!
by Pat Hennessy
It has been a warm winter and we welcomed spring early this year. That means we will be starting sooner with the war on bugs. You will want to arm yourself with the best arsenal you can to beat those pesky parasites. If you are concerned about the chemical compounds or potential toxicity of the various flea and tick products, you might want to consider a natural route. In the Midwest we have more than our fair share of flying, buzzing, and creepy crawly pests, due to the trees, grasses, and 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 discomfort (skin irritation, lethargy, diarrhea, etc.). Check them for fleas, ticks, or bites at least weekly by brushing them, using a flea comb, and by doing a body scan (running your hands over the body and sliding your fingers through the fur parting the hair to look for fleas and ticks). Don’t just assume your dog or cat is good to go — products don’t always protect them 100% of the time. If you are worried about conventional flea & tick treatments (spot-on liquids, ingestible tablets, and collars) having harmful ingredients, you can opt for a more natural approach (especially for the very young, www.metropetmag.com | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
senior, and ailing pets). These choices involve tools and repellants that will not kill fleas or ticks on contact the way topical applications work. These methods will require diligence in maintaining a routine to keep pests off of your animals and not inviting them into your home. Once in the home fleas will lay eggs that can stay dormant for months, making it much harder to get rid of them and allowing an infestation to occur. Natural prevention takes time and commitment, but the reward is avoiding potentially damaging chemicals. • Maintain an industrious regime of brushing and bathing your animal companion, vacuuming, washing bedding, and applying your solution of choice frequently – based on how often your dog or cat goes outside. There are some good options for natural sprays utilizing essential oils such as cedar, lemongrass, rosemary, tea tree, etc. (ready-to-use or easy DIY formulas). This is a maintenance routine. If you have an infestation you will need to follow stronger protocols including treating your yard (and there are natural sprays for that as well). Depending on your situation you may have to add in some traditional products such as Capstar® to kick off the process (as it only kills adult fleas). Your veterinarian can help you with those choices. • If you do find a nasty bloodsucker embedded in your dog or cat, there are tick pulling products that remove them naturally and safely without the fuss of using 9
tweezers (such as the Tick Key® available through Cabela’s, N2paws, and Missouri German Shepherd Rescue). This tool removes the entire tick avoiding the trauma associated with not getting all of it or trying to back it out, which causes the tick to release nasty toxins into the bloodstream. Proper disposal of a live tick (per the CDC): submersing it in alcohol, placing it in a sealed bag/container, wrapping it tightly in tape, or flushing it down the toilet (least favorable as it has to go through water treatment and it carries toxins). Never crush a tick with your fingers, as it releases all the toxins onto your skin and into the environment (toxins which could carry Lyme disease). • Maintain grass and shrubs at short levels - this increases sunlight exposure and causes dryness which keeps the insect population down. If you are using a natural yard spray, the shady areas are a good place to apply some extra solution. • If you thought about using essential oils - consider the
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health of your animal companion and consult with your veterinarian (who may also consult with someone experienced in the use of aromatherapy with animals). Essential oils should be diluted for animals. It can be made into sprays for topical use and diffused in the home to help reduce insect populations. For heavy diffusing, to get rid of an infestation – all animals should be removed during the diffusing process. You have to be conscientious about the use of essential oils and know which ones are safe to use as well as applicable for repelling insects. After consulting with your veterinarian if you want to try essential oils keep these tips in mind: • Only use oils from trusted sources, whose oils are made with the most purity based on quality plants (no herbicides or pesticides and high quality seed, growth, and harvesting) and processing practices (tools and methods of distillation) to maintain the truest form of the botanical constituents of a given plant. • Always err on the side of caution by diluting oils and only using a couple of drops in your dilution to start out, as well as applying a small amount in a non-sensitive and hard-to-reach area (i.e. the middle of the back), to ensure that your companion can tolerate it. For smaller animals use more dilution and less drops. The higher quality/ more pure oils require less drops in general (the potency is higher, so less is needed and less is recommended). Don’t apply oils in the same location where topical flea treatment has been used or where shots have been given, to avoid any reaction. • If your companion has sensitivities or health conditions – allergies, immune issues, aging, etc., you can still get the benefit of oils without applying them directly on the animal. Place a drop or two (of the diluted oil) on a cotton ball then swipe it lightly onto a portion of a bandana and place the bandanna on your dog with the application side up (use a thick fabric or double fabric underneath to prevent leaking through). You can also try a dab of the diluted oil on the collar (the part facing outward – not on the dog’s skin). A couple of other natural alternative and easy DIY
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MetroPet Magazine | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
choice are: • Add 2 tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar to a 32 ounce spray bottle of water and spritz it on your dog or cat. • 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 spritz on your dog or cat. Ensure that neither of these options are sprayed on sensitive areas or any open wounds, sores, or hot spots to avoid irritation. • There are also a few ready-made natural topical sprays, shampoos, and repellant tags that hang from your dog’s collar. One of the best things you can do for your pets is feed them a high quality diet, and use supplements when needed (such as digestive enzymes or omega fatty acids). The more nutrition that can be utilized by your pet’s body, the healthier he or she will be. A better diet makes for a stronger immune system to fight off disease and it creates a less inviting host for insects.
www.metropetmag.com | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
Now that spring is here we are in for a long bug season (which goes all the way through autumn). Maintain a careful eye on your pets and make sure you are armed with appropriate tools to keep them pest free as you are off to greet the summer, the wonderful season of fun.
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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One More Responsibility for a Pet Parent by Nancy Bush Piper
Many people choose a private cremation for their pet, so they can get their pet’s ashes back, but are not always sure what to do with the ashes later. It is normally comforting to have the physical remains of the pet back home, albeit in a different form. During the intensely emotional grieving stages, it is common for people to take their pet’s ashes in the car with them, if the pet usually traveled with them; to sleep with the pet’s urn; or to place the urn where they can pat it every day as they leave the house and also return, among other things.
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MetroPet Magazine | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
The urn is sometimes placed in a memorial area in the house. Pet parents have a continuing responsibility to the pet’s ashes. When the pet parent dies, or all of the people who had the pet in their family circle die, then what happens to the pet’s ashes? If the ashes are not placed with the human in the casket or urn, then what? If someone is going through the person’s belongings and has no idea about the pets’ ashes, then they stand a good chance of being thrown away and ending up in the landfill. Or
if they are in a beautiful urn, the urn ends up at Good Will or other thrift store, when your belongings are sorted. Think about it! What will happen to your pets’ ashes after you die? Will anyone else care? Make the last arrangement for them while you can! I have a friend who was a home organizer. She told me it was a common occurrence, when she started in on the closet in the bedroom, for people to say “oh, be careful!” She learned to ask “who is in there? Is it a friend, a relative or a pet? Or everybody?” People tend to put cremated remains in their closets because they don’t know what to do with them. Pets as well as people deserve to be memorialized for eternity. Here are some suggestions for memorialization for people who don’t know what to do with the ashes. Take the urns to a pet cemetery to be buried, placed in a cremation niche, or the ashes scattered in their scattering garden. The pets can be memorialized there, as well. At home, plant a memorial tree, shrub or plant using some of the pet’s ashes to do that. The cremated remains by themselves will not nourish a plant. When they are mixed with a specially formulated planting mix, Let Your Love Grow, the beneficial plant nutrients are released from the ashes. There will be a beautiful living memorial to remember the pet by. The planting can be done in the ground or in a container. I have friends who planted a tree with their dog’s ashes, using Let Your Love Grow. The tree is flourishing, and they smile when they see the tree as they pull in their driveway. What better way to honor and memorialize your pet than to create new life from the ashes through a living plant memorial? The memories of your beloved companion animal and the love you shared will always be a part of you. Your pets will always be memorialized in your heart, which is a joyous thing.
www.metropetmag.com | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
Nancy Bush Piper owns Rolling Acres Pet Memorial Center in Kansas City, MO, along with her husband Gary. Nancy and Gary are also co-owners of Loving Hearts Pet Memorial Services in St. Louis County, MO. Nancy has a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and sociology from Northwest Missouri State University. She is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist and a charter Certified Pet Loss Professional as well as having a Pet Loss Companioning Certification. Nancy and Gary are blessed with many animals in their lives. For fun, she studies horsemanship and plays with her horses and mules.
memorial gardens for pets a pet cemetery, crematorium and funeral home, since 1973 Serving those who think of their pet as one of the family by providing compassionate, ethical and dignified after-life care for their pet
Rolling Acres Memorial Gardens for Pets 12200 N. Crooked Rd., Kansas City, MO 64152 816-891-8888 • 888-891-0988 www.visitrollingacres.com
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Answers to Spay and Neuter Questions
Today, it is widely accepted that high-volume spay and neuter is the most proactive, most effective and most humane way of reducing companion animal overpopulation, homelessness and euthanasia in our communities.
What Is Spay and Neuter? A spay surgery (ovariohysterectomy) is a procedure in which the ovaries and uterus are removed through an incision in the abdomen. A neuter (orchiectomy) is the removal of the testicles through an incision either in the scrotum or just in front of the scrotum. Both procedures require general anesthesia and pain control. The result of both surgeries is permanent infertility and a variety of significant health benefits that ultimately translate into a longer lifespan for spayed and neutered animals.
What Are the Benefits?
I like to emphasize the benefits of 14
spay and neuter by dividing them into two categories: Benefits for an animal’s individual health, and benefits for population health. Individual health benefits: Ah, one of my favorite topics: there are just so many to discuss! The most impressive is the prevention of mammary (breast) cancer in female dogs. Recent studies have shown that female dogs that are not spayed, or that are spayed after their second heat cycle have about a 27% (greater than 1 in 4!) chance of developing malignant mammary tumors during their life. When dogs are spayed before their second heat cycle, this chance drops to about 8%, and when they are spayed before their first heat cycle, the risk drops to (drum roll, please) nearly 0%! So those “old school� claims that it is good for dogs to have one litter or even one heat cycle before being spayed have been completely scientifically debunked. Following that outdated
MetroPet Magazine | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
recommendation can actually be very harmful. Furthermore, sterilizing female dogs and cats prevents them from developing ovarian and uterine cancers, and also prevents a potentially fatal uterine infection called pyometra. When intact female animals develop a pyometra, they must undergo a very expensive hospitalization and emergency surgery (often costing upwards of $1,500), and can have a poor prognosis for recovery. So, spaying pets early in life not only is best for their health, but it will save your family money in the long-run. Neutering male dogs and cats eliminates the risk of them developing testicular cancers. Additionally, removing the testiclesand thus the source of testosteronereduces the risk of developing certain types of prostate problems later in life. For males and females of both species, spaying and neutering eliminates the drive to find mates, and therefore decreases roaming behavior, escapes from homes and yards, and to some extent, aggressive behaviors. When dogs and cats escape and roam less, they are less likely to be hit by cars and picked up as strays and put into animal shelters. Population health benefits: Every year in the United States, 6-7 million dogs and cats enter animal shelters. Tragically, over 3 million of them (about 50% of dogs and around 70% of cats) have to be euthanized simply because there are not enough adoptive homes for all of them. In fact, plain and simple homelessness (due to overpopulation) is the single
biggest cause of death of dogs and cats in the US—more than any sort of trauma, infectious disease, cancer, metabolic disease, or any other health problem. Largescale spaying and neutering means that far fewer animals are reproducing, which means fewer animals entering shelters, more families adopting homeless animals instead of buying from breeders, and ultimately, lower euthanasia rates of homeless animals. This makes for a smaller and healthier companion animal population. Since animal health and human public health are intertwined in many ways, this also has implications for the health of the human population. What is the best time during my pet’s life to spay or neuter? As early as possible! As discussed, the health benefits are much more dramatic when spays are done prior to the first or second heat cycle. Also, surgeries are often less extensive and less traumatic when done on young animals, and surgery and anesthesia recovery times tend to be shorter for younger animals.
How Can I Help Decrease Pet Overpopulation? If the sweet faces of shelter puppies and kittens in those heart-wrenching television commercials make your eyes fill with tears, please do these simple things in your own community: • Spay and neuter all of your pets! Think you can’t afford it? Call your local low-cost spay/neuter clinicwe want to spay and neuter, so we’ll work with you to make it possible. • Support your local high-volume spay/neuter clinic by donating money, resources or by volunteering your time. • Instead of buying an animal from a breeder or a pet store, adopt one (or two!) from your local shelter or rescue group. • Educate your family and friends, and encourage them to spay, neuter and adopt as well.
What Is the Cost of a Spay or Neuter? Cost varies greatly depending on where the procedures are done. In full-service veterinary hospitals, clients can expect to pay up to a few hundred dollars depending on the gender, age and size of the animal. Costs are significantly lower in high-volume spay/neuter clinics where these surgeries are the only service provided. These organizations can also frequently lower costs for some clients by subsidizing fees with money from grants. It is important to understand, though, that even though the surgery itself is similar regardless of place, the greater expense in full-service veterinary hospitals is often due to more extensive anesthesia monitoring and intra-operative supportive care (e.g., blood pressure monitoring, pulse oximetry, inhalant anesthesia, intravenous fluids, etc) that are usually not possible in high-volume clinics. That said, the vast majority of healthy animals do just fine in highvolume spay/neuter clinics, but I always like for pet owners to make informed decisions about where to seek veterinary services.
www.metropetmag.com | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
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RESOURCE Control by Mike Deathe
Many people know that I recommend hand feeding so that you can train your dog via resource control. If you control all the good things in your dog’s life well, you are the leader. This way we can learn to become a leader without having to resort to being a butt head in the process! Many of you have complained; said it would take too long, be too much work, but end up calling me or emailing me and telling me that you cannot believe how well the hand feeding technique actually worked. Usually the next question you have is, “Are there are other ways to work on resource control?” Well, sure there are, and today we are going to talk about two great ways to accomplish this. Beds and Furniture. Ok so to be a resource the dog simply has to enjoy the object or item. Trust me, next to food, beds and furniture come in a close second and third on Fido’s list of all-time favorite things. Resource Control is just simple, it means that we the humans control the item or object. So, even those of you who do not allow your dog on furniture or beds are using in some sense, resource control. So how do you control this resource? It is simple. You require permission and manners before Fido is allowed to join you. I know many trainers say that dogs should never be allowed on furniture or beds, but I really don’t agree (there are some cases in which I will remove this privilege but they are few and far between and not the norm). I figure that if my dog understands that I own and control 16
MetroPet Magazine | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
the couch and/or bed then control is not an issue and words like alpha and dominant are not an issue I have to worry about. The basic idea is that of a “Sit, Say Please” technique where the dog must patiently give the behavior of a sit as a way of asking permission to get up. Then, and only then, will the human allow or give permission to the dog to jump up with them. The same holds true if you decide the pooch is not allowed up at that particular point in time. Either way, it is up to you, not the dog, when and if they are allowed to join you on the bed or couch. Now don’t expect this to be an overnight training session. This is something that will take a consistent routine to achieve, but the time you invest here will come back with dividends in a dog that has manners and impulse control.
What do you do if the dog just jumps up and “shares” the couch with you? Well, I can tell what not to do!. Don’t make a huge deal about it. Let’s not draw attention to the mistake, rather let’s focus on the solution. I see two possible options. 1. Quietly and calmly just grab the dog and put him on the floor and then simply ask for a sit and after a 5-10 second pause invite the dog back up on the couch. Do not yell, scream, or yank the dog. You will only ratchet up the energy level of the dog and reward an already unwanted behavior. 2. Teach the dog the off command. Simply practice 10-15 minutes a day asking the dog up on the couch then luring the dog off the couch with a treat, saying the word off… As time goes on (within the week) start to only reward the dog with food for the correct response (getting off the couch) turning the lure into a reward. (Paychecks only come after the work is done not before). Before you know it, you will then fade the reward to the point it is not even necessary.
Mike Deathe is an avid pet lover who found his passion as a dog trainer. Since 2008 he has trained thousands 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.
A simple word of caution though. If you allow your dog permission to get up on beds, couches, and other furniture (even with your permission), you should realize that the permission idea will only happen when you are around or using the resource. When you are not around, you must realize that the dog is probably going to be on the couch or the bed. So, before making this decision to use resource control, make sure you and everyone else in the family is on board with Fido being on the furniture! But wouldn’t it be nice to have a dog who said please before getting up on the couch or bed??? www.metropetmag.com | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
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Zoonotic Diseases What is your risk? by Lori Stiles
A Zoonotic disease is the transfer of illnesses from animals to humans; and anyone in contact with animals (domestic or wild) is at risk. Prospective ways we can become infected is through viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungus that can be found in animal feces, saliva, blood, urine and fur. Oddly enough we can simply become infected by casual contact. Zoonotic diseases can hitch a ride on your hands, cling to clothing, jump on you through fleas or ticks or simply float through the air. When it rains, water that is not absorbed (also known as “runoff ”), travels down driveways, yards and streetsinto stormdrains, picking up pollutants like automotive fluids, lawn chemicals and pet waste along its way. After travelling through the storm sewer, it all flows directly into lakes, streams, rivers – untreated.
High Risk
It is extremely important to make sure your newly adopted pet has a complete examination by a veterinarian of their fur, feces, urine and blood. This procedure is critical for determining if your pet has any zoonotic diseases. People who are at the highest risk of contracting zoonotic illness are young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems. Even if you do not fit in the high-risk categories, the importance of a full examination of your new pet should not be overlooked. Yearly examinations of your pet(s) are extremely critical for their continued health and yours.
Symptoms in Animals and Humans
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MetroPet Magazine | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
Most viruses, bacteria, and parasites are contracted through animal feces, saliva and fur. Fecal matter has a high risk of transferring various diseases such as Giardia, Roundworm, and Hookworm to humans. Giardia is a parasite that finds its way to dogs and cats through contaminated food or drinking water. This is why it is important to not let your dogs drink out of puddles of water, lakes, streams and rivers. The symptom (diarrhea) for pets and humans are comparative. Cleaning your back yard of dog waste and frequent cleaning of your cat litter can help you detect this problem early. Giardia is contagious and can spread easily from animals to humans.
Roundworms are 3-5 inches in length, reside in the intestines of a dog and is transmitted through dog waste. Young children are most susceptible of obtaining roundworms since they stick their hands in their mouth quite often. Another way it can be transmitted to humans is by your dog stepping in dog waste and then jumping up on you or others. The fecal matter can be transferred onto your hands, clothes or skin. Symptoms in dogs are potbelly, diarrhea, gas, and vomiting. Most infections in humans are mild and cause no symptoms at all. Some symptoms (but not limited to) are diarrhea, vomiting, cough, cramping, fever and itching. However, there have been some cases where roundworms have migrated to the liver, brain, and eyes in humans. Please remember to take all symptoms and illnesses seriously. Hookworms are easily transmitted through dog waste to other pets and humans. Animals that are infected pass hookworm eggs in their stools. In favorable conditions (moisture and warmth) the eggs hatch within 12 to 18 hours and a tiny new hookworm emerges. These freeliving organisms can penetrate the skin of pets or humans and continue to thrive. So be careful not to walk barefoot in grass that is not clean of dog waste. People can get painful and itchy skin infections when hookworm larvae moves through their skin. Some of the symptoms in dogs are weight loss, pot-bellied appearance, coughing, low energy level, diarrhea and vomiting.
Prevention
• After contact with animals fur, skin or dog waste, wash your hands thoroughly with water and soap. • If your dog or cat has diarrhea two days in a row, take your pet to your veterinarian. • Do not walk barefoot or contact the soil with bare hands in areas there is likely to be dog waste in the soil or sand. Make sure your pets are de-wormed when you adopt and make regular visits each year to make sure your dog
or cat is in good health. • Check your pet often for flees and ticks. • Do not allow your dog to drink water out of lakes, streams, lakes or puddles that may be contaminated with infected organisms. • Refrain from having animals lick you, especially in the face. • Disinfect dog waste removal tools after each use. • Clean litter boxes and dog waste from your yard frequently. • If you have a professional pooper scooper that cleans your yard, please make sure they disinfect their tools and the bottom of their shoes after each yard they clean. If not, zoonotic diseases can be easily transmitted to your yard and infect your pets, you and your family. In actuality, humans and pets are much alike when transferring illnesses or germs on to others. We pass our germs through coughing, kissing, human contact with our hands, and not washing hands after going to the bathroom. Being very aware of our own personal hygiene and the well being of our pets can prevent most, if not all, zoonotic diseases that can threaten our health. In the meantime, enjoy your furry pets and keep them healthy with a lot of love and attention.
Lori and Alan Stiles founded Scoopy the Poo TM 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. www.metropetmag.com | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
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SPEAK UP FOR YOUR
DOG by Mary Sellaro
What does it mean exactly, to “speak up” for your dog? It means you should never be hesitant or afraid to tell someone you are not comfortable with what they are encouraging or allowing your dog to do. Let’s look at a common example, jumping up. I have had countless encounters and conversations with people who ask to pet my dog; for the most part, my invariable response is yes, as long as the dog is calm and either sitting or has all four paws on the ground. The end result is about fifty percent of people will actually stop and listen to what I am saying. The other fifty push aside my words and continue to try and engage my dog, stare at me blankly or become offended. At this point, the next move is mine as my dog is the one caught in the middle, which is not a pleasant place to be. Do I insist my dog remain sitting or at least calm with all four feet planted? Or do I allow the dog to become spring-loaded just this one time to avoid an unpleasant situation or hurt someone’s feelings, because after all, they just want to pet my dog. The answer is no, you do not allow something because it is the easy way out or to 20
MetroPet Magazine | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
avoid conflict. My dog is relying on me to be consistent and implement the greeting routine we have worked very hard on. So, when the latter fifty percent choose to ignore me, my answer is simply, no, you cannot pet my dog. No explanations, no apologies, even at the cost of being deemed socially disagreeable.
Balance Predictability with Exposure
Maybe you are afraid to speak up for your dog because their training isn’t reliable for the situation? Possibly you don’t feel comfortable that your dog will sit to be greeted or stay calm? The first step is to not expose your dog to situations he or she (or you) are not ready for. These situations can happen at home, as well as in public. Years ago, we had a large gathering at our house and my dogs were milling around with the company. I was keeping a close eye on everyone, (or so I thought) dogs and guests alike, I turned around and a guest was feeding one of dogs from their plate and fork. My dog was only too happy to oblige and did not refuse the salad from her new best friend. I calmly walked over and asked them to please not feed my dog without asking me first and specifically, salad dripping with ranch dressing or any human
food. I don’t believe the intention was to defy me or hurt my dogs; we were simply not on the same page when it comes to dog’s eating habits. The responsibility here is three-fold, meaning, I should have been more watchful and certain of my dog’s behavior in this situation, guests should always ask before feeding a dog which isn’t theirs anything and obviously, I need to spend more time training my dog before putting her in this situation. Did I punish the dog-no-it wasn’t her fault-it was mine. I spent time training and preparing my dogs for this type of situation and have modified both my behavior and theirs.
Intervention vs. Consequence
There are many consequences which could be avoided by the simple act of a person asking before acting. We have already covered a couple of scenarios-jumping up and feeding dogs without asking. A few other examples could be someone teasing your dog, playing rough or inappropriately, children or adults who do not ask before petting, or someone allowing their dog to run up to yours
www.metropetmag.com | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
and get in their face without asking first and then saying“is this ok?” I have often wondered the psychological reasoning people use to presume their behavior is going to be received in a positive light. Are these people who do not react well to being told ‘no”, do they hold a place in the family or a professional position where being spoken to in such a manner would be considered disrespectful, do they believe they have more than basic knowledge when it comes to dog sense? Regardless of the answer, it is ok to say no, you may not or stop it. Not only is it ok, but in some situations it is mandatory. To follow through with the models given, what could be some repercussions if you didn’t either interrupt or speak up for your dog? Take the jumping up example-it is very easy for a dog to become excited or anxious when meeting a new person or an established friend, the result could be a paw in the face, ripped clothing or a scratch from a claw or nip from a tooth.
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Some dogs have allergies or food sensitivities, so even being given “one little bite” can hurt and result in diarrhea or other gastric upset. (The person who gives the dog the food won’t have the emotional upset of a sick dog, a sleepless night from letting the dog out due to diarrhea or vomiting, cleaning floors, scrubbing rugs or a possible vet visit.) A dog being teased, played with rough or inappropriately can respond accordingly with teeth, energy and the intent to win the game. Keep in mind, dogs learn through play and will repeat what works. If a person, child or adult chooses to pet or interact with a dog without permission, the dog may not receive good intentions with an appreciative response. A dog that is given the choice to run up to another dog is being set up for a clash. The potential of missing a chunk of an ear, facial wounds, scratches or future anxiety or
aggression when meeting new dogs can be a possibility. The most serious repercussion is your dog’s lack of trust in your handling abilities and faith in your judgment.
Go back a step-train for every situation The first step is to have a plan and establish some rules for situations where you need to provide intervention for your dog. The answer comes down to training a few exercises and laying a foundation for your dog; which in turn will make their behavior more predictable and you more confident. The most important exercise to teach the dog is focused attention-or simply to check in with you and be prepared to follow your direction, especially around distractions, whether at home or in public. What motivates your dog to repeat desired behavior? The answer-praise-the recognition of a job well done. What motivates your dog? Treats, toys, a verbal “good job”; whatever it is, find the motivator. The tools for success will also include the right choice of collar and leash for your dog. The choice to work with a professional trainer will not only help to train the dog, but more importantly, training you to train the dog. The dog will not be proficient until you are, teach effectively, practice daily and be consistent. All training starts in a distraction free environment so the dog can focus and truly learn the meaning of verbal commands and hand signals. As time progresses, the dog will become more trustworthy in paying attention and responding to you. The quantity of commands the dog has in their repertoire is not important-being solid and reliable in a few exercises is key. It will be necessary to balance training with not only communicating to the dog they have gotten it right, but also to correct when their response is not the desired one. There should be more praise than correction. When correction outweighs praise, there is a problem with the human part of the team. •K eep in mind the following while introducing new training exercises: •P ractice at home-start out with no distractions. •B uild up to low level (predictable) distractions
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MetroPet Magazine | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
• Gradually move up to higher level distractions and environments • 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. In conclusion, it is your responsibility to be your dog’s voice, speak up, train; your dog is depending on you to communicate what he does not have the ability to.
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. Mary is a certified AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. She can be reached at 816-361-3388.
Pet Cremation Services Private or Communal Large selection of urns & memorials Serving those who think of their pet as one of the family by providing compassionate, ethical and dignified after-life care for their pet
Loving Hearts Pet Memorial Services 1631 W. 5th St. , Eureka, MO 63025 636-587-8880 www.lovingheartspet.com
www.metropetmag.com | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
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Meet the Breed June/July Pet of the Month
Boston Terrier by Heddie Leger
Statistics of the Breed
Typical Life Span – 15 years
Typical Height for male and female: 15 - 17 inches Typical Weight for male and female: 10 - 25 pounds Coat – smooth and short Color – Typically white chest and blaze on face with multiple color combinations of patterns most popular being black and while, but may be brindle, brown, and other variations. The Boston Terrier is one of the few breeds known to have been developed in the United-States of America. It is difficult to believe that these handsome, little dogs were once considered tough fighters. It is a known fact that their weight classifications were divided into lightweight, middleweight and heavyweight. The Boston Terrier is known to have originated in Boston, Massachusetts. The original Boston Terriers were a cross between the English Bulldog and English White Terrier. By the late 1880s the breed had become very popular in Boston and surrounding areas and fanciers decided to form the first American Bull Terrier Club, not long after that, the breed was named the Boston Terrier after its birthplace. The breed was first shown in Boston in 1870 and recognized by the AKC in 1893. This is a gentle, alert, energetic, intelligent, and wellmannered breed. They can be rambunctious and a
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MetroPet Magazine | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
bit high strung if not provided the proper amount of mental and physical interactions and exercise. They are very sensitive to tone of voice. They learn quickly and love to learn new things so are not difficult to train. You will want to be aware not to allow the Boston Terrier to develop Small Dog Syndrome. If allowed by human induced behaviors, this dog will believe and act as if he is the pack leader to humans. This can cause behavior issues. They require a gentle, but firm, confident, human leader that knows how to display authority and consistency when interacting with the dog. Most representatives of this breed are reliable with children, good with the elderly. They can be very
The smooth, shorthaired coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush and bathe only when necessary. They can be wiped with a damp cloth every day making sure to clean the prominent eyes carefully. As with all dogs, their nails should be clipped on a regular basis. This breed is an average shedder and does not have a strong doggie odor. Although they are not hypoallergenic, they are a very clean breed.
friendly with strangers. The Boston Terrier is playful, very affectionate and likes to be part of the family. These little dogs may be difficult to housebreak if not trained with firmness, consistency and clear communication. The Boston Terrier is very popular and has come to be known as the American Gentlemen of dogs, due to their amicable personality, gentle ways and loving interactions. They are a valuable addition to any family unit and get along well with everyone, including other dogs, cats and other species. The Boston Terrier is considered an indoor dog that needs love, attention, and devotion from his human family. www.metropetmag.com | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
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Assistance Dogs
by Lisa Rickards You walk into your favorite restaurant and notice a person at the next table in a wheelchair dining with their friends or family. On the floor, by that person¹s side is a beautiful, well-groomed dog in a blue vest resting quietly and calmly. How did it get to be so well behaved? How does it assist its handler? Is it appropriate to interact with the dog? For a dog to have access into public places such as grocery stores or restaurants, it must be individually trained to complete a task to help with their human partner¹s disability. A doctor¹s note is not enough and a certificate¹ or ID card¹ ordered on the internet is certainly not enough. Additionally, the ADA requires that assistance dogs in public places must be under control at all times and well behaved - not barking, lunging, jumping. Emotional support animals are not 26
MetroPet Magazine | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
allowed public access under the ADA. Assistance dogs from Canine Companions for Independence® are trained and socialized to behave appropriately in a variety of situations a requirement for public access under the ADA. Sometimes this means becoming “invisible” when the dog is not actively helping with a task, such as retrieving a dropped item or opening a door. And although it may not appear as though the dog is working in that moment, it is part of their job to wait patiently for the next command. Canine Companions for Independence puppies are specially bred Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers
or crosses of the two. When the puppies are 8 weeks old they are placed in Volunteer Puppy Raiser homes where they spend the next 16-18 months learning basic and intermediate obedience, taught proper socialization, fed a high quality diet and given lots of love. When they are approximately 18 months old, they are returned to a regional training center where they will be screened for health and temperament. Some dogs are released at this point, while others continue into training. The dogs that continue will spend the next 6-9 months learning over forty commands to help their future partners become more independent in their daily lives. These commands include learning to retrieve dropped items such as keys, opening and closing doors, pulling a manual wheelchair, or turning lights on and off. After they have achieved proficiency in each of the commands, the dogs are matched with a person during a two week Team Training. Each Canine Companions for Independence dog is given away free of charge to a deserving recipient. And teams are provided regular follow up care and must re-certify every two years to ensure that the health of the dog and its skills are being maintained at a high standard. So, what should you do when you encounter an assistance dog team in public: * A lways ask the handler if it¹s okay before petting an assistance dog and be prepared for the answer to be “No, the dog is working.” * Do not offer food or treats to an assistance dog. * L imit your interaction with the dog as much as possible. * I f you have a pet dog with you, keep it under control and prevent it from jumping on, licking or barking at the assistance dog. It is best to talk to the person handling the assistance dog and not talk to the dog directly, unless given permission. Remember that assistance dogs do get time at home to relax and play, but when they are working they need to be focused and serious about what they do. They play a very important role in the life of a person with a disability. www.metropetmag.com | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
How To Get Involved: Volunteer: Be a part of the Kansas City Chapter. Website: www.cci.org/kansascitychapter Facebook: Canine Companions — Kansas City Chapter Email:
KCChapter@cci.org
Contact: Canine Companions for Independence North Central Region Center 4989 State Route 37 East Delaware, Ohio 43015 (740) 833-3700 • www.cci.org
Lisa is a graphic designer by profession, but her true passion lies in raising future assistance dogs for people with disabilities. She is currently raising her eighth puppy, Patty, going to Professional Training in November, and ninth puppy, Lima, who just arrived. Lisa loves the mission of Canine Companions for Independence and admires the way they match dogs so perfectly with their forever person. She appreciates the professionalism of the staff and has enjoyed the numerous friendships she has developed with other volunteers and graduates. Her favorite part of being a volunteer puppy raiser is working on the dog¹s skills and socialization.
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Chip’s Corner 28
MetroPet Magazine | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
PAWZZLE
by Pawlean Journe
Down
1. Can become _______________ is not given proper exercise.
Across
2. This breed likes to be part of a ____________. 6. What city did this breed originate in?
3. Need both physical and _____________ interactions to be happy.
7. This is one of few breeds developed in the ______________.
4. What state was the dog originated? 5. They ____________ to learn new things.
12. Typical coloring includes a white chest and blaze on the face.
8. This breed is alert, energetic and __________________.
13. First recognized by the ________ in 1893.
9. Coat type is smooth and _______________.
16. This breed is not difficult to _________.
10. Very ____________ to tone of voice.
17. The breed was named after its
11. The Boston Terrier is very ______________________. 14. Do not allow this breed to develop small dog _______________. 15. Their personality is very ____________________. 18. T hey are good with both children and the ________________. 22. They are very playful and ________________________ making them fun to be around. 24. Was a cross between this breed and the English White Terrier.
__________________________. 19. They are considered an _______________ dog. 20. Can also come in this color. 21. Although not considered hypoallergenic, this is a very ____________ breed. 23. One classification for the largest in size. 25. It is hard to believe these dogs were once _______________. 26. T hey were divided into weight __________________________.
Answers to this Pawzzle can be found in the Breed of the Month story on page 24
www.metropetmag.com | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
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The Next Adventures of Chip by Heddie Leger
Recap from April/May 2016: I had to spend a couple of days at the doggy doctor. I had also hurt my back when the bully hurt me and I could not walk very well. The doctor was very kind, and compassionate. He told Allen and Penelope I might have to walk with a wheelchair for a while, and I definitely had lost my eye, but that my other eye was fine and I would not be blind. When I got hit in the head, it kind of messed up my hearing also, so they all sounded kind of muffled, but I could make out some sounds. What I could hear is the doctor telling them, “He will be fine.” Well, I was not going to let some little thing like a wheelchair stop me, but learning to see with just one eye was going to be a challenge. Allen and Penelope came back from the courtroom with some goggles for me. They thought I would look cool with them on. I did not like them, but it sure beat the patch they put over my eye. But at least with the patch, I kind of looked like a pirate. People were calling me Captain Jack Sparrow. I liked that. He is one of my Hero’s. He stuck up for those less fortunate, kind of like their protector. I decided I was kind of like Captain Jack Sparrow
Respect is the feeling of admiring someone or something that is good, valuable, important, etc. Having respect for someone means you think good things about who a person is or how he/she acts. You can have respect for others, and you can have respect for yourself. 30
MetroPet Magazine | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
RESPECTFUL anyway, so would not answer anyone until they called me Captain Jack. It was kind of fun, pretending I was a celebrity in a movie. Little did I know, I was about to become one for real. Someone knocked on the door from the newspaper and wanted to interview me, Allen and Penelope, but the nurse told her that we needed permission from parents/guardians, Stephanie and Robert. So the nice lady from the newspaper said she would come back. Then someone from the local TV station showed up, and they were a bit pushy and disrespectful. They said they had a deadline and needed permission immediately to have the story on the evening news. This was my first brush with the media and they were not kind or respectful to us. In fact, that is a sort of bullying and we told them so. We just kindly let them know we would not be bullied into the interview for their evening show, and they should come back when they made arrangements with the proper adults. They backed down, but we knew we would see them again. Then we focused on my learning how to coordinate the wheelchair with only one eye to see and gauge distances
for the wheels to go through doorways, hallways, and various other skills in using a wheelchair. We mastered those pretty well and I still wanted to learn some new things, so we went on the elevator. It was kind of full and a lady dropped everything she was holding. Allen and Penelope stopped to help her pick them up and offered to place some of the things on my wheelchair to help her. It was actually fun to be able to help in this way, and I was starting to realize this wheelchair was not going to hinder me, but could in fact be a good thing. Turns out the lady was so thankful and gracious, she invited us onto her show. She was the main person on a morning talk show. She invited us to be her guest speaker the next week and talk about bullying and what to do to stand up to a bully without being rude and always staying respectful.
Allen and Penelope to told her they had to get permission from their parents, but if she waited in my room, they would be there soon. They soon did arrive and had a nice conversation and it was all set up. We were going to be the local representatives on a morning show on TV to help others learn about bullying; what it is, what it is not, and what to do about it. How cool is that ??!!! Stay tuned !!!!!!
“In the end we are all separate: our stories, no matter how similar, come to a fork and diverge. We are drawn to each other because of our similarities, but it is our differences we must learn to respect.” Anonymous “The friendships which last are those wherein each friend respects the other’s dignity to the point of not really wanting anything from him.” Cyril Connolly “I have found the best way to give advice to your children is to find out what they want and then advise them to do it.” Harry S Truman Story Discussion Tips 1) What was Chip using to get around and move? 2) What did Allen and Penelope bring Chip? 3) Did Chip like what they brought? What did he do? 4) What did Chip use on his eye that he liked? 5) What was Chip’s nickname? 6) How did the newspaper reporter treat them? 7) How did the TV person treat them? And what did they do? 8) Where was Chip, Allen and Penelope when they helped the lady? 9) What was job of the lady in the elevator? 10) What did she ask Chip, Allen and Penelope? www.metropetmag.com | Kansas City/St. Louis - June/July 2016
Heddie is a Certified Humane Educational Specialist and Licensed Professional Coach of Canine LifeSkills. Her expertise in the area of the human/animal bond spans educational, home health, mental and physical health with people of all ages. Her programs have touched thousands of people in bringing them to a better understanding of the human/animal bond and the profound impact of a higher quality of life through those interactions. 31
Kansas City Pet Services Directory Adoption
Second Chance Pet Adoptions SCPAKC
913-814-7471
2ndchancepets.net
Boarding & Daycare Tails R’ Waggin 6976 W 152nd Terrace Overland Park, KS 913-685-9246
tailsrwaggin.com
Tails R’ Waggin provides the finest daycare, boarding, grooming and training for is a NO-Kill foster home adoption organiyour pet. We are your pet’s destination of zation dedicated to helping homeless anichoice to play, stay and be treated like one mals find loving, responsible, safe homes. of the family. Come by for a tour today!
Second Chance Pet Adoptions
Visit our center for adoptions and unique boutique items. We are open M, W, F, S. 9237 N Oak, Kansas City, MO 64155 913-814-7471 • 2ndchancepets.net Wayside Waifs 816-761-8151
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.
Boarding & Daycare
Camp Bow Wow, Lee’s Summit 1010 SE Hamblen Road Lee’s Summit, MO 816-246-7833
campbowwow.com/us/mo/leessummit Camp Bow Wow, Olathe 1150 W 151st St Olathe, KS 66061
campbowwow.com/olathe Camp BowWow locations helps your pups reap the benefits of exercise and socialization while having lots of fun romping and playing with canine friends. Call for complete details!
Home Organization
Feel happy, centered, and productive in your space! Certified organizer Eliza Cantlay with Simplicana approaches clutter with humor and enthusiasm. Plus, she LOVES pets. The hardest part is getting started… Let Eliza Eliza Cantlay make it easy! www.simplicana.com P: 913-815-0008 • E: eliza@simplicana.com
Insurance
Pet Memorial Options
Midwest Pet Aquamation A gentler eco-friendly alternative to pet cremation
23753 W. 83rd Terrace • Shawnee, KS 66227 913-292-0953 • midwestpetaquamation.com
Midwest Pet Aquamation understands that losing a pet companion is difficult. We want to help you through the process by providing professional, dependable, and eco-friendly pet cremation options. Our office is available 24/7 to all KC Metro area families and inhome pickup is available. Let us help you honor your pet with a peaceful cremation process. Please call us today.
Rolling Acres Memorial Gardens
Serving the Kansas City area since 1973 Rolling Acres Memorial Gardens for Pets is a full service pet cemetery, crematory, and funeral home where our compassionate staff is ready to serve the bereaved families and friends of cherished animal companions. Our mission is to serve those who think of their pet as one of the family by providing compassionate, dignified and ethical cremation or burial services for their pet. Call us. We can help. 12200 N. Crooked Road • Kansas City, MO 816-891-8888 • www.visitrollingacres.com
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 • AutoHomeKC.com
Carol’s Dog Scarves`
Kansas City, MO • 816-728-2480
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.
Pet and Garden Supplies
Pet Fencing Options New Owners: Tim, Ann and Tyler Schoenfelder
American Midwest Distributors
1 Design Drive N., Kansas City, MO 64116 • 816-842-1905 • americanmidwestkc.com A local distributor which sells pet food (HighStandard, Earthborn Holistic and ProPac), bird seed and feeders, equine products, farm and feed supplies and fertilizers and garden supplies and many other products.
Real Estate 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!
913.345.2999 Established in 1988, Heart of America Invisible Fence is an authorized, full service Invisible Fence® Brand dealership serving Jackson and Johnson counties and surrounding areas. We offer solutions to many problems, both outside and inside. Learn more about how we can customize an Invisible Fence Brand solution for you and your pet. www.heartofamerica.invisiblefence.com New Store 13342 Pawnee Lane Leawood, KS 66209 New Owners: Kevin and Kim Clark 816-522-2195 Invisible Fence of Kansas City Recommended by vets and installed by professionals, our customizable solutions will keep your pet happy and out of harm’s way in your home and yard. Your pets are family to us. That’s why our pet specialists are certified in our renowned Perfect Start™ Plus Pet Training methods. We serve Kansas City north the river, Lawrence and St. Joseph.
Keller Williams Realty Legacy Partners, Inc.
April/May Pawzzle Answers
www.kansascity.invisiblefence.com
Veterinarians Arbor Creek Animal Hospital 15971 S. Bradley Rd Olathe, KS • 913-7649000
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! Aid Animal Hospital 8343 Wornall Rd Kansas City, MO 816-363-4922
aidanimalhospital.com For 37 years, Aid Animal Hospital has provided quality veterinary medical and surgical services to Waldo and entire Kansas City area. We pride ourselves on quality customer service in a family friendly atmosphere, where your family can always feel welcome.
St. Louis Pet Services Directory Adoption/Rescue St. Louis English Bulldog Rescue 314-381-2010
www.stlbulldogrescue.org St. Louis Bulldog Rescue, Inc. is a Federal Tax Exempt 501c3 organization that is an all volunteer group of bulldog lovers whose mission is to re-home bulldogs who are surrendered by their owners or find themselves otherwise without homes, landing in animal shelters or wandering the streets as strays.
Pet Health
Pet Hospice Services Pet Food
HiStandard
www.histandarddogfood. com Dog foods formulated with a precise balance of amino acids to support healthy muscle tissue; high levels of fat to support energy levels and stamina; highly digestible meat protein sources; and omega fatty acids for a healthy skin and coat. Available in both Kansas City and St. Louis.
Pet Waste Mgmt & Products
Yucko’s
www.yuckos.com
Weekly - Every Other Week - Once A Month One Times Or Just Because..!
314-291-POOP (7667) Service
Free Estimates - No Contracts - Fully Insured Dogipot Products - Pet Stations - Litter Bags Fake Fire Hydrants And More...!
314-770-1500 Sales
Are The First Responders In Your Area Equipped With Pet Oxygen Recovery Masks?
www.PetOxygenMask.com
Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe in Summer
Pet Cremation Services
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Prevent Heat Stroke — heat stroke can occur when your dog’s body temperature rises dangerously high. It is most common for dogs who excercise in the heat or are left in a hot car. If your dog is outside, make sure it has shade and plenty of water. Dehydration — you can prevent dehydration by plenty of water to your dog. Frozen treats are also an option. Fireworks— fireworks can look like a stick, which might make your dog think it is a toy. If there are fireworks around, put them up, so your pets can’t reach them. Loud Noises — if your dog is frightened by loud noises, a sudden flash of fireworks or lightning can disorient and startle your dog, causing it to run wildly. Keep your pet on a short leash or completely awary from fireworks. Parasites — ticks, fleas, mosquitoes, flies, and other insects are at their peak during the summer months. Talk to your veterinarian about appropriate protection such as collars, sprays, shampoos, dips, and other products.