Metro Pet Magazine July/August 2011 by ROI Marketing

July/August 2011 Feature Articles

Is There Room In Your Heart for a Boxer The MoKan Boxer Rescue rescues boxers in the states of Kansas and Missouri.

The New Age of Our Animal Companions As we evolve, our animal companions take on new roles. Help them to adjust.

Love at First Lick! For Nick Griffith, finding the right pet took time and patience.

Kitty Kat Korner The Persian cat is known for its sweet, distinct expression created by a flat face and large round eyes.

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Some of the Most Common Household Items are Toxic to Your Cat Human drugs are not for cats.

Breaking the Cycle of Violence Violence towards animals must be stopped.

Help Captain Jack! Vote online for our local hero — help him win!

Creating the Perfect Cat Cats can be trained, here are some tips.

The Living Room Dog Training is easy in the living room, but when you venture outside...

Your Pet Had Died, What Happens to its Remains New requirements for the pet cremation industry.

Dog Retreat Weekend to Aid Pets Bring your pet and enjoy a relaxing weekend — all in support of local animals.

In Every Issue 4

Summertime is Here — Hot days and steamy nights! When will it end.

Chip’s Corner — Test your knowledge about the Persian breed.

MetroPet Resources

Camp Bow Wow

Broadmore Kennels

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 • MetroPetMag.com

Publisher’s Message

Summertime... If is truly summertime in Kansas City! Hot days and steamy nights... it seems like it will go on forever! During then next several weeks, don’t forget to take care of your pet. Make sure it has enough water and a cool place to stay. Just like children and seniors, pets can be affected by the heat. Take care of yours.

Terrific Cover Story Thanks to Nick Griffith and Riggs for providing our cover photo and great story about adopting a pure breed from a shelter. His tale of loving, losing, and finding a pet again is an inspiration to all of us who have loved and lost a pet. He took time to heal. Nick was patient in finding a new best friend; adopting an animal from a shelter. Everyone won in this wonderful story. Hopefully the rest of us can be that patient. Enjoy the story and consider adopting your next best friend from a local shelter or rescue group. If you are interested in adopting an animal or supporting a rescue, please check out our online listing at www.metropetmag.com. Please support the MoKan Boxer group, the Excelsior Springs Friends of Animals and Captain Jack, details in this issue.

Pet of the Week Winners! The winners keep coming! MetroPet has received over 100 terrific photos of pets in the last month! We are overwhelmed with the wonderful photos and have had a difficult time choosing winners. Please keep the photos coming. We will be offering some terrific prizes in the next few weeks. While you are at the website, sign up for our weekly e-blast — News ‘n Deals, join us on facebook and on Twitter!

New Pick-up Locations

MetroPet Magazine • J ULY /AUGUST 2011

Several readers have said that they can’t find MetroPet magazine. So we have added new distribution points — 21 outside boxes and 6 inside racks. Please see the listing under distribution www.metropetmag.com for a location near you.

Have You Visited or Called our Advertisers? When you need a product or service, please contact the companies who advertise in MetroPet magazine. It is with their support that we are able to publish this magazine. Tell them “I saw your ad in MetroPet magazine.”

Staff and Contacts Publisher Barbara Riedel info@metropetmag.com

Editor Dan O’Leary editor@metropetmag.com

Magazine Layout ROI Marketing 816.942.1600 • roi@kc.rr.com

Web Master www.2Amarketing.com

Advertising Sales adsales@metropetmag.com

Deals of the Week deals@metropetmag.com

Contributing Authors Mike Deathe Pat Hennessy Patty Homer Heddie Leger Nancy Piper Valerie Robinson Cheryl Waterman

Contact MetroPet PO Box 480065 Kansas City, MO 64148 Phone: 913.548.1433 Ad Sales: 913.548.1433 Fax: 913.387.4313

Photo Credit: Terry Weckbaugh ImageQuest 913.262.4355 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.

Barbara Riedel, Publisher

Articles: Readers are invited to submit articles for consideration for publication to editor@metropetmag.com. All materials are subject to editorial review.

P.S. REMEMBER — send us your favorite pet photo to be eligible to win Pet of the Week prizes!

Is There Room In Your Heart for a Boxer? MoKan Boxer Rescue was created in 1998 when Kansas City Boxer Rescue and Sunflower Boxer Rescue merged. Starting with just three original volunteers, the group now boast of up to 25 volunteers, and the boundaries have spread from Hays, and Wichita, KS, to Jefferson City, MO, and all points in between. In 2002, boxer rescue groups in the Midwest joined together to form Midwest Boxer Rescues (MWBR). While they operate independently, they share a website, applicants, ideas and sometimes boxers! Currently MWBR is made up of Missouri Valley Boxer Rescue (MVBR), Boxer/Schnauzer Rescue of the Ozarks (BSRO) and MoKan Boxer Rescue.

FOSTER HOMES ARE KEY All of our rescues are housed in a foster home and they learn house manners, basic obedience, and any vet needs are tended too. All boxers in our program have been heartworm tested, and treated if necessary, up to date on vaccinations, microchipped, and spay or neutered. We are currently looking for more foster homes. They need to have a fenced yard, preferably boxer experience, be within their pet limit for their city ordinances, be willing to absorb daily food expenses; all current pets are spayed/neutered. An application can be completed on our website.

by Valerie Robinson

RESCUES OF ALL AGES MoKan receives animals at all stages of their lives. Five days after being rescued from an urban shelter, Momma E “Edelweiss.” presented us with seven puppies of which five survived. Named for characters from The Sound of Music, we had Kurt, Friedrich, Louisa, Marta and Gretl. (We lost Leisl and Rolf.) Momma E was plagued with hook worms and kennel cough at delivery and two weeks later, so were all the puppies. Fifteen months later. Momma E and all but one of the puppies has been adopted. Marta remains in the foster home, where she was born. Marta is happy, healthy and content, but would really like a family of her own. If you would like more information about fostering for MoKan Boxer Rescue, our 5K run, or our adoptable boxers, please visit our website at www.midwestboxerrescues.com.

MoKan Boxer Rescue hosts several events throughout the year on both sides of the state line. Our biggest fundraiser by far is our annual 5K Run/Walk called, “Running of the Dogs” which is held this year on July 10. The run is a nice scenic route at Waterfall Park, near the BassPro, in Independence, MO. It’s a dog friendly event but we also attract avid runners as it is a USAT&F certified course. As a rescue group, we are committed to the dogs in our care, even after adoption. If for some reason their adoptive family can no longer care for them they always come back to our rescue group. With the economic downturn, we’ve had six boxers returned. These dogs were with their families for an average of five years. It’s heartbreaking to see them so lost and out of their element, and also because now they are no longer young pups with grey on their faces, it much harder to find them adoptive homes.

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 • MetroPetMag.com

MOKAN BOXER EVENTS

The New Age of Our

Animal Companions

MetroPet Magazine • J UNE /J ULY 2011

hroughout history our culture has shaped the role of humans, from hunters and gatherers to the industrial revolution. As we evolve our society and attitudes change, and it has been a fairly dramatic transformation since the dawn of the 20th century. With that change, the animals on our planet have had to adjust accordingly. For many centuries horses were a mode of transportation and now, in western culture, they are an animal of sport and leisure. Our canine companions partnered with us during our hunting centuries and evolved with us working livestock on our farms. Now they serve a different role as members of the family.

NEW ROLES FOR OUR ANIMAL COMPANIONS Today our roles and population are much more diverse. Much of the population is away from their homes multiple days per week, leaving their canines alone and without a job. Another large portion of the population is married without children, single, or empty-nesters and their animals fill the companionship gap. This is a new role that has been thrust upon our canines and felines, and one that may be more difficult for them to fulfill due to the human part of the equation. If we can learn to understand our animal companions’ species-related needs and adjust our expectations accordingly, it can be a perfect match — probably exceeding what you would find on an internet dating site: wanted a warm loving companion, someone that will

by Pat Hennessy

If we can learn to understand our animal companions’ speciesrelated needs and adjust our expectations accordingly... listen to me without judgment, not be too demanding, and love me just the way I am!

QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER So, you want to know if you are compatible with your animal companion? Let’s get started. Here are some questions to consider.

Do you agree to love, honor and cherish your animal companion until death do you part? Since the animal lifespan is shorter, that means you make a commitment to take care of them through illness and old age. It also means that you need to make arrangements for their care in the event of your untimely death. Do you agree to provide food, shelter, health care, environment enrichment (e.g. toys, activity, exercise), and companionship? This is no different than the commitment you make to your human little ones. Do you have adequate funds to care for your animal companion? Remember, all costs are higher on a larger breeds — not just food. Boarding is higher, veterinary services are higher, crates and bedding cost more, etc. Do you have adequate space and an appropriate lifestyle for the breed you have chosen (pure or mixed)? You will need to do some homework on the breed (and it will be a bit more research on a mixed breed based on some educated guessing and temperament assessment).

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a cat) if you have, for example, a bad knee. If dander is a problem, you would want to consider the type of coat and may not want a densely coated or longer haired dog or cat. • What are your goals for the relationship? Is this dog going to be an additional member of a 4-member family (mom, dad and two children)? Is this dog going to be an only companion (if you are single)? Is this dog going to replace an empty nest (for you and your spouse)? • If the dog is an addition to the 4-member family, everyone must be in favor of the addition. Someone must be designated as the primary care-giver. Rules must be established for all the family members. Everyone must be consistent in giving the dog direction (cues such as come, sit, stay, etc.). If the direction is not consistent, then the dog’s behavior will not be consistent. Consistency in training is the key to compliance and family harmony. The

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• While some medium-to-large breeds are less active and may do well in a townhouse or apartment, there are also some medium sized breeds, such as a Border Collie, that may appear to be the right size for an apartment but will go stir crazy if not given a high energy work-out or activity. • If you want a dog to be active with you and go running, hiking, or camping you might want to consider a sporting breed or specific hounds, such as a Rhodesian Ridgeback vs. non-sporting or miniature dog. • If you have children, you may want to consider a larger dog with an even temperament, one that won’t be injured easily if stepped on and won’t be intimidated by fast movement or loud noise. Temperament will have to be assessed and cannot be “assumed” based on breed. • Do you have any health issues that you need to consider (and this one is a high priority to ensure you can make the lifetime commitment – which can be up to 20 years for some breeds)? You may want a less active dog (or

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 • MetroPetMag.com

DIFFERENT NEEDS TO CONSIDER

dog must learn to follow rules, but so must all the family members. • If the dog is a single companion, he may be a great foot warmer on a cold night and the best snuggler to watch a movie, but if you like to cuddle or hug him don’t keep that death grip for too long, as he may feel a bit claustrophobic and his preferred show of affection would be a big sloppy kiss vs. a hug. If he is a little guy, then you must be mindful to provide as much (if not more) “floor” time as lap time (this makes for a balanced and “grounded” companion). He is probably the greatest listener when you have had a bad day at work and that is one attribute that sets him apart from all your human relationships. Another aspect of listening that he will need is to learn at least a minimum set of cues (e.g. come, sit, stay), so that you can have two-way communication. These cues will give you a variety of options when the need arises for him to respond with a behavior. Last but not least, to provide harmony in your human-canine bond, he will need to have some “doggie” time – which would mean walks or play time in a location away from his regular yard and an activity or two that allows him to use his doggie skills (retrieving, digging, sniffing, etc.), and some supervised socialization around other dogs. • If the dog is filling the empty nest, she will certainly enrich your lives by providing the companionship you miss from children without allowing her to take on the role of a child. You will have the teaching and leadership role (to set the rules and give her the positive guidance to learn the rules). She will have the role of providing you the wonder and absolute delight that your children did when they were young — giggling, acting silly, or look-

ing in amazement when you gave them something colorful and new. What we have to remember is that even though our dogs are “like” our children, they are still canine and need to process information like a canine, need to read their environment like a canine, need nutrition formulated for a canine, etc. Dogs learn visually and take in a lot of information from scent. They will watch you put on your shoes and know it means you are going out the door. For them, sniffing a fire hydrant is like reading a newspaper. While your dog might beg for a bite of your grandchild’s peanut butter and jelly sandwich, it is more appropriate to let him enjoy a freezedried liver treat. Understanding our companion’s species, helps us in building a better relationship.

A PART OF OUR LIVES Companion animals have been a part of our lives for thousands of years. Their roles have changed with ours as time goes by. Their service and dedication to us sets them apart from all of the animal kingdom. The best way to honor that service is to recognize who they are, treat them with love and respect, knowing that they will return the favor. We are their ambassadors and should do our duty to earn that trust and respect. 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 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.

MetroPet Magazine • J UNE /J ULY 2011

June Pawzzle Answers

Pet of the Week

Winners

Coconut

This is my precious, spoiled 2 lb princess. She has the best personality! Her hobbies are getting puppy pawdicures, dressing up, shopping at her 2 favorite dog boutiques, playing fetch and visiting her friends at doggie daycare. She is so much fun! I love her so much!!! Submitted by Deanna D

Rocco had 5 homes before ours. I was told he was hyper and extremely smart. He proved it on his first ride home... he jumped in the front seat and rolled down the window. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had our hands full ever since! Submitted by Erika W

Won FREE treats from

www.jjsnack.com Submit your photo at metropetmag.com.

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ MetroPetMag.com

Rocco

Love

First Lick!

MetroPet Magazine • J UNE /J ULY 2011

MIDWEST UPBRINGING

Growing up in historic Madison, IN, Nick was surrounded by family, animals and lots of green grass and fresh air. With a population of just 12, 000, Nick knew almost everyone. Growing up, Nick had many dogs — his favorite though, was a Great Dane by the name of Harley. Harley was a wonderful companion. A special bond formed between them. “He was just another member of the family,” Nick recounts with a smile, “The kind of dog that told you exactly what he was thinking just by looking at you.” Unfortunately, like many large dogs, Harley died of bloat after just four short years. Nick took it hard. Losing a pet is difficult. Nick knew it would take time to recover. He didn’t want another pet. He wasn’t sure he would ever want another pet. Life went on, and Nick went on. He was involved in high school sports, and played on his college baseball team as well. As he puts it, “When I realized I wasn’t good enough to make a living at it, I chose broadcasting — talking about sports was the next best thing to playing them.”

BUILDING A CAREER

ife in Kansas City has been good to sportscaster and pet parent Nick Griffith. First he found his dream job, then his dream girl, and now his dream dog. Life doesn’t get any better than that! When we see successful people, it may seem that their life has always been easy. But that isn’t true for Nick Griffith. His life, just like the rest of us, has had many ups and downs.

Nick went to college at Miami of Ohio University, Oxford, Ohio. After completing degrees in broadcast journalism and political science, Nick accepted his first job as a broadcaster. He loaded up the U-haul and headed for the town of Idaho Falls, ID. He was on the air at KIDK!

Working became his focus. Soon, he moved on to sports director at KTKA in Topeka, Kansas. After a little more experience under his belt, Nick was invited to join the team at KMBC, Channel 9. His daily duties at KMBC encompass a wide variety of jobs, including reporting, producing, editing and also anchoring the evening and late night sports. Working many hours, Nick chose to live downtown. He knew his lifestyle wouldn’t work for a dog. But that didn’t stop the yearning inside. As part of his commitment to Kansas City, Nick became involved with several different charities. With a strong appreciation for the work done by Wayside Waif’s, Nick stopped by from time to time. He became friends with Ashlee Parker, Communications Relations Manager. During one conversation he mentioned his love for Great Danes and his childhood pet. He mentioned that if the shelter ever received a pure bred Great Dane, he might be interested in adopting it.

FOSTER CARE Each year area shelters receive hundreds of animals that are not ready for adoption when they enter the shelter. Foster care programs help animals who are injured or sick, moms with litters, single babies who are too young to be on their own, animals that need training or behavior modification, or an animal who just needs some quiet time out of the shelter to feel good again. Last year there were over 900 animals fostered in Wayside Waif’s foster care program. Foster families must complete a training program and then agree to provide in-home care for 2-4 weeks. Foster families are real heroes. They give animals individual care. With this special care, many are ready for a second chance — a permanent home with a family. Fostering can be a fun and educational activity for the whole family. Many foster families report they are completely enriched by their experiences. They feel significant gratitude knowing they made a direct impact in an animal’s life. In some cases the time spent fostering an animal can be used as community volunteer hours.

In a different world, a pure-breed Great Dane puppy had found a new home with a family. But the joy was short lived. Somehow, his leg was broken. The family had just spent several hundred dollars to purchase the puppy. They simply couldn’t afford to pay for the necessary surgery. So the puppy was surrendered to Wayside Waif’s. The puppy would not only need expensive surgery, but special tender loving care to recover. While this might have been the end of the road for some animals, Riggs was given a second chance. Wayside Waif’s put him on the road to recovery. Surgery was performed. After surgery, he was placed in a foster home with a special volunteer. Foster care takes on a whole new meaning when you are taking care of an animal that has recently had surgery. In

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 • MetroPetMag.com

A SAD SURRENDER

this case, Riggs needed 24-hour care. A special volunteer, a former nurse, took on the challenge and gave Riggs the care he needed to recover.

A PERMANENT HOME As Riggs’ health progressed, the need to find him the right permanent home was important. He needed a special place where he would be nurtured. Ashlee called Nick. Was he interested in a Great Dane puppy? She explained his situation. He thought about it. He thought about it for a long time. Then, he discussed it with his girlfriend at the time, now fiancée, Sara Gooch. On his day off, he went to the shelter to meet Riggs. He was hooked. But he wanted his girl friend to meet Riggs before he took him home. So on a separate day, she met Nick at the shelter and was introduced to Riggs. It was suggested they take him home for a night. Sara already owned a Siberian Husky. It was important to see if the two dogs could coexist. They agreed — they would try it for a night. Riggs got into Sara’s car. Excitement was high. After just a few blocks she pulled over. Riggs had pooped in her back seat. “It was a lot of poop,” Nick chuckles. At the time though, he was worried; this didn’t bode well for him or Riggs. But they proceeded home. In just one night, Nick, his fiancée Sara, Kody, the Husky, and Riggs the Great Dane bonded into one big happy family. Riggs had found a fur-ever home.

PLAYING, TRAINING, BONDING AND MORE In the early months, when Nick wasn’t working, Riggs was like a shadow, wanting attention and needing direction. Nick spent lots of time with him. Playing, running, training, snuggling, it was all part of getting to know one another. To anyone who has ever had a puppy, it is extremely important to spend time early in the pet’s life bonding and training. Nick had time to spare, and he spent it with Riggs. The bond grew. And so did Riggs. After 18 months, Riggs now tops the scale at 111 pounds. Riggs is a one big dog. He is actually taller than Nick, when he stands on his hind legs! Nick understands Rigg’s needs — and Riggs loves Nick. They still spend lots time with each other. Playing, running, training. It doesn’t stop. Each day is a new one. Each day, their relationship grows stronger and deeper.

PURE BREEDS IN SHELTERS Many people don’t know that on average 25-30% of the animals at Wayside Waif’s are purebred or designer hybrid animals. In addition, there are many mixed breeds that are wonderful caring animals — just without the pedigree! Animals come to shelters and rescue groups from many sources, puppy mills, families who simply can’t handle an animal after purchasing it, too many puppies in a litter, and other situations. In all cases, the animals are not there because they are bad or have done something wrong, they were just in the wrong situation. In each case the animal now needs a fur-ever home. Depending on the age and type of animal, the time at the shelter can vary, from days to weeks, to months. Groups realize it is important to showcase each animals so potential adoptees can select the right one for them.

Many people don’t know that on average 25-30% of the animals at Wayside Waif’s are purebred or designer hybrid animals

ADOPTION — FIND THE RIGHT PET FOR YOU

PLANNING AND BUDGETING Why is this research and planning so critical? Because adding a pet to your home is an important decision. Once you bring the animal home, you want to keep him there. While Nick wanted a pet, the timing had to be right. He had to have the time, money, the right home, and equally importantly a place in his heart. When Nick adopted Riggs, he was ready in all aspects. His career was at a place where he could spend time with his pet. He was on the verge of moving out of his downtown apartment and into a house that had a backyard with lots of grass — Riggs loves to run in his fenced back yard! Nick was also needed to be ready to make a commitment — for years to come. His heart was healed from his childhood loss. He was ready. Don’t forget the financial details. Like most shelters and rescue groups, animals adopted from Wayside Waif’s are spayed or neutered, receive age appropriate vaccinations and are chipped. But, families need to budget for food, veterinarian care, training and much more.

TRAINING, BONDING AND MORE Nick continues to focus on his career. In addition to his normal broadcasts, he covers high-profile events such as KU’s National Championship win, the Orange Bowl, and the recent Chief’s playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium. In his personal life, he and his fiancée are planning a wedding for July 2012. And now there is his relationship with Riggs. His world is complete. Nick can’t help but smile when he plays with Riggs. They understand each other. And, it was love at first lick! Wayside is committed to finding homes for all adoptable pets. Wayside Waifs is the largest pet adoption center in Kansas City, placing over 5,000 animals each year in loving forever homes. Wayside does not euthanize adoptable animals, and there are no time limits for animals in our care. Only animals suffering from significant medical issues or those that pose a danger are humanely euthanized. Wayside Waifs is proud to be a part of Kansas City's no-kill community.

2011 STRUTT WITH YOUR MUTT FOR WAYSIDE WAIFS PRESENTED BY BAYER ANIMAL HEALTH Want to meet Nick and Riggs? Join them at Strutt Your Mutt where they will be the emcees! Supports: Wayside Waif’s When: Saturday, September 24 Where: KC’s Brookside Neighborhood Events: 7:00 am Registration 7:30 am Biscuits & Grrravy breakfast by Sharp’s Bar & Grill 8:00 am 5K Race 10:00 am 3K Strutt 11:00 am Pet Contests Flealess Market Visit with pet vendors in the Flealess Market, enjoy live entertainment & food and have FUN! Having Fun Fetch your best friend, form a Dog Pack, and Strutt to save animal’s lives! Register online at http://www.waysidewaifs.org/strutt

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 • MetroPetMag.com

But how do you connect animals in shelters with people wanting to adopt? Many ways. Low-tech ways include adoption events and word of mouth; high-tech ways include online photos and videos. Online research is reaching new levels. People google the breed or type of pet they want. Then, they watch and wait for one to become available. Once they find one that interests them, potential families watch the animal online and learn about them, before they ever visit a shelter or rescue group. What seals the deal? It might be a special photo. It might be the way the animal moves in a video. Something will connect you and that special animal. New statistics shows 75% of potential adopters pick out an animal online and then decide it is time to go get him.

Kitty Kat Korner The Persian Cat

MetroPet Magazine • J UNE ULY /A /J ULY UGUST 2011 2011

by Heddie Leger

The Persian cat is well known and recognized for its long, luxurious fur and distinct, sweet expression created by a flat face and large round eyes. The head is round and large, and the ears small and round at the tip. The body type of the Persian is thick and stocky. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, including solid, silver, golden, shaded, smoke, tabby, parti-color, bicolor and Himalayan. The Persian is recognized by The Cat Fanciers Association, The International Cat Association (TICA) and the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA). This long-haired cat is reportedly discovered by an Italian traveler in the early 1600s while in the Middle East. They were event u a l l y brought to Europe, and became popular in England during the 19th century. Queen Victoria owned two blue Persians. Persian cats came to America in the late 1800s. The breed was officially recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association in 1914, and quickly became the most popular cat breed in America. The American Persian has a slightly different look among the world’s Persian cats due to U.S. breeders developing their own breed standard for this cat. Persian cats enjoy spending time with their families and like to sleep curled up on a lap. They are not demanding for attention, but neither are they very independent, as they do like to be with their families and desire companionship. If they are to be left alone all day they often prefer another pet for some company. They need a lot of grooming to prevent hairballs and mats. The owner should be prepared to spend at least 20 minutes a week grooming your Persian. They are not particularly active, but do like to play with interactive toys as well as with other cats and also dogs that they know well and are comfortable with. Join us next month and learn more about Chip’s Kitty-Cat Corner friends

The Persian cat is well known and recognized for its long, luxurious fur and distinct, sweet expression created by a flat face and large round eyes.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT ANIMAL Chip’s Kitty Kat Korner continues to introduce different cat breeds. But before bringing an animal home, consider what age will work best for you, a kitten or older more mature cat. Kittens, while more entertaining, are very inquisitive and can get into everything. Are you prepared to “kitten-proof” your home? This would include removing or securing valuables, removing plants that are toxic to pets, and closely monitoring your kitten’s living space removing items such as paperclips, safety pins, securing electrical wiring and making sure medications are safely and securely stored in cabinets out of reach. No matter the age, cats are curious and mischievous by nature; removing items that can cause potential problems will help ensure a safe and happy relationship with your cat or kitten.

Pet of the Week

Winners

Lucy Lucy is loving dog she loves swimming, walking and people. She loves our mail carrier Debbie because she leaves she treats in our mail box for her. Submitted by Sandra C

Submit your photo at metropetmag.com

Received Tickets to Dog-n-Jog

www.hsgkc.org

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 • MetroPetMag.com

Duchess

Right when I saw this cute, adorable, chubby puppy I knew Duchess was the one! She has been the joy of my life since then. She loves kisses, hugs, and her favorite “toy” is children. She gives you a pleading smile and tilts her head begging for a kiss. I have caught her many times sniffing wild flowers in our yard! Submitted by Emily P

Chip’s Corner

MetroPet Magazine • J UNE /J ULY 2011

Pawzzle

by Heddie Leger

Down:

2. 3. 5. 6.

7. 8. 11. 12. 13. 18.

Persians are more ______________ and forgiving than other cats. Persians are not demanding of your _________________. Persians enjoy spending time with their _____________. They like to curl up in your _____ and sleep. One organization that recognizes this breed is the Cat ________ Association. Body type is thick and ______________. The face is _______. Persians are known for their sweet ___________________. Persians are not very ________________________. Size of ears Shape of head

Across: 1. 4. 9. 10. 14. 15. 16. 17. 19. 20. 21.

Known for this color pattern. An unusual coat color. They are not particularly _________________. They adapt well to ____________ pet households. Comes in a _______________ of colors. Frequent grooming will prevent this from happening. Known for its long ________________ fur. Beautiful color with contrasting tipping color. They make very good __________________. Persians need alot of this. Reportedly came from this part of the world.

Pet of the Week

Winner

Finneas decided to adopt our family one evening around midnight. He says he had been out on "the streets" for quite a while, and saw our friendly looking house and decided he wanted to live with us. And he's very happy he did! Submitted by Denny M

Basket of Treats a $100 Value www.threedog.com

Finneas

Submit your photo at metropetmag.com

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ MetroPetMag.com

Did You Know? Some of the Most Common Household Items Are Toxic to Your Cat! A

by Cheryl Waterman

s you might suspect, the large majority of calls to the Pet Poison Helpline concern dogs. However, in 2010 almost 9% of the calls were concerning potentially poisoned cats. The top culprits are things you may not realize can harm your cat(s).

MetroPet Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ J ULY /AUGUST 2011

HUMAN DRUGS â&#x20AC;&#x201D; NOT FOR CATS

Almost 40% of the feline cases at the Helpline involved cats that had ingested human or veterinary drugs. The worst offenders tend to be over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, etc.), naproxen (Aleve) and chewable veterinary NSAIDS (carprofen, deracoxib, etc.) The issue is that cats have difficulty metabolizing certain drugs, especially compared to humans. Common drugs such as NSAIDS are some of the most deadly to cats. Once ingested by a cat, NSAIDS result in kidney failure and/or stomach ulcers. Just one acetaminophen tablet can be fatal to your cat, because it causes damage to red blood cells. Other toxic drugs, which you may find surprising, are antidepressants. Cats seem to like Prompt treatment from a veterinarian the taste of certain antidepressants (e.g. Effexor) which and calling the Poison Helpline is may contain an attractive smell or flavor in the coating. critical in these cases. With NSAID toxicity, vomiting (sometimes bloody), lethargy, increased urination and thirst, and halitosis may be noticed. With acetaminophen you may notice a swollen face, difficulty breathing, weakness and paleness. Death may result in flower arrangements. Even a small ingesvery quickly. With the antidepressants, severe agitation, aggression, tremors, tion of two or three petals or leaves (even the tail twitching and seizures will usually be noticeable. If you notice any of pollen) can result in severe poisoning to cats. these symptoms, it is critical that you get your cat to your veterinarian immeYou may notice vomiting, lethargy, increased diately. Any delay may cause death. The prognosis is good if the cat is thirst and urination. Eventually, decreased treated BEFORE any of these symptoms develop. thirst and urination, difficulty breathing, and death may occur before end-stage kidney failPLANTS CAN BE POISONOUS ure. These symptoms must be treated immeThe second most common feline toxin, representing almost 14 percent of diately and aggressively. Be sure to waste no calls to the poison helpline, are poisonous plants. The worst offenders are time getting your cat to your veterinarian True lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis spp.), including Tiger lilies, Day lilies, should you discover he/she has ingested any Asiatic, Easter and Japanese Show lilies. These are among the most deadly of these. Usually, if cats are given IV fluids and will cause kidney failure in cats. This can be dangerous because these within 18 hours of ingestion the outcome can flowers are fragrant, inexpensive and long-lasting, many florists include them be excellent.

There are some plants that are called “lilies,” however, that are not true lilies. These are the Peace, Peruvian and Calla lily. These do not cause kidney failure. They may cause minor symptoms such as irritation in the mouth, tongue, pharynx and esophagus. You may notice excessive drooling, licking or oral swelling. With these symptoms, flushing the mouth, anti-vomiting medication and/or subcutaneous fluids may be necessary. The outcome is usually excellent.

ANOTHER KILLER — INSECTICIDES Nine percent of feline related calls in 2010 were for cats exposed to insecticides or inappropriately treated with a topical flea and tick medication meant for dogs. The worst offenders are insecticides such as lawn and garden products, sprays, granules or powders used on your lawn. Poisoning may occur when a cat walks through the treated area and then licks the poison off his/her feet; however, serious poisoning is rare. Symptoms are usually somewhat mild, such as mild vomiting and diarrhea, or loss of appetite. Still, a trip to your veterinarian is warranted just to make certain everything will be okay. The most serious poisonings are seen in cats exposed to concentrated topical flea and tick medications meant for dogs. The issue here is that dog-specific parasiticides usually contain pyrethrins or pyrethroids, which are highly toxic to cats. Poisoning occurs when pet owners unknowingly apply these products directly to cats OR the cats lick the medication off the dogs that live with them. The symptoms with these medications designed for dogs, are severe drooling, tremors and life-threatening seizures. The outcome may be good, IF the cats are treated immediately and aggressively.

Remember to make sure all excess residue is wiped up or eliminated after using any household cleaners. Pets should only be allowed back in the area after the products are completely dry. And, always store these products out of reach. The remainder of the feline-related calls during 2010 involved such things as glow sticks and liquid potpourri. There isn’t enough space to cover everything in one article, however, please make certain that you keep the Pet Poison Helpline’s number 1-800-213-6680 and website (www.petpoisonhelpline.com) handy. They are a division of SafetyCall International and the service is available 24 hours, seven days a week for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance in treating a potentially poisoned pet. Cheryl Waterman is the Hospital Administrator at the Cat Clinic of Johnson County and a long-time cat lover. She has been with the Clinic for the past 13 years, and in 2007 received Certification in Veterinary Practice Management (CVPM) designation. She is a member of the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association and the American Animal Hospital Association. You can contact her directed at the Cat Clinic of Johnson County, (913) 541-0478.

s n o i t s e u Q h t i W s U l a C If you have any questions regarding poison and cats, please call the Cat Clinic of Johnson County, 913-541-0478, and talk to one of our veterinarians or technicians. We are always happy to help.

Owners should always read labels carefully before using any type of insecticide AND consult their veterinarian BEFORE using any topical flea and tick medication on their cats. There are many good choices of appropriate flea and tick medications for cats exclusively. Household cleaners accounted for approximately 6 percent of poison helpline calls. The worst offenders are floor and surface cleaners and glass cleaners that are present in many homes. Even more dangerous chemicals include oven cleaners, rust removal agents, limeremoval and certain toilet bowl cleaning agents. The main issue here is that many owners don’t realize that some of the most common cleaners are toxic to their cats. The signs include profuse drooling, difficulty breathing, vomiting and even organ damage. There may even be oral ulcerations and burns to mouth, skin and eyes. Some of the more dangerous chemicals must be carefully and copiously flushed. Prompt treatment from a veterinarian and calling the Poison Helpline is critical in these cases.

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 • MetroPetMag.com

READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY

Breaking the Cycle of Violence

by Heddie Leger

There is increasing attention being given to the relationship between animal cruelty and other forms of violence, most notably domestic violence. This issue has been studied long enough by psychologists and law enforcement agencies to provide ample documentation that people who harm animals are capable of harming other people as well. Incidents of animal abuse, spousal abuse and child abuse regularly occur in the same household, or one may lead to the other over time. Either way, society has a vested interest in not just punishing such behavior but reversing it as well.

THE CYCLE OF VIOLENCE

MetroPet Magazine • J UNE /J ULY 2011

nfortunately recent news has displayed a rash of cruel and violent acts towards animals. This is very unpleasant to hear and see, and it is not something that can be swept under the rug. Cruelty to an animal has proven to be the first step towards cruelty towards another human being. In this modern day and age, there is still much room for us to learn about the human/animal bond and how it relates to how we treat each other.

There is increasing attention being given to the relationship between animal cruelty and other forms of violence, most notably domestic violence...

Because of this “cycle of violence,” more than half of our nation’s state animal cruelty laws allow judges to include psychological assessment and treatment as part of sentencing. In Kansas, counseling is mandatory for felony cruelty offenders; in Missouri, counseling is discretionary for those convicted of certain types of abuse, but not all forms of abuse. Educated judges are utilizing this provision as part of a more comprehensive approach to not only punish abusers, but to stop violence before it repeats or escalates. Just last month a judge in California ordered AniCare treatment for a man convicted of tying up a small dog, taping her mouth shut, pouring bleach in her eyes and hitting her in the face with a golf club. It would be wonderful for judges across the country to take similar actions in requiring such treatment for abusers that are convicted.

ANICARE TREATMENT The nonprofit Animals and Society Institute, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is the leading advocate for a special counseling program called AniCare. Developed in 1999, it is a unique model that aims to get to the root of violent behavior. It uses a cognitive behavioral approach to address personal issues of accountability, respect/freedom, reciprocity, accommodation, empathy, attachment and nurturance. There are separate AniCare programs for adults and for children under 17 carried out by specially trained counselors across the country.

COMMUNITY AWARENESS Because our society values the role companion animals play in our daily lives, public awareness of the seriousness of animal cruelty is more apparent. Instead of making excuses for cruel behavior (“boys will be boys”) or marginalizing the victims as “just animals,” more people are demanding that animal abusers be brought to justice. When news headlines describe cats being set on fire or dogs being beaten, there is a greater expectation that the law will deal with such perpetrators seriously. Reporting incidents of animal fighting, hoarding or severe neglect is one way anyone can speak up for animal victims. Acts that were once misdemeanors are often now classified as felonies prompting stricter law enforcement and more stringent penalties for violations. Adding psychological counseling to the mix acknowledges that there is indeed something lacking in individuals who care so little about the welfare of others. Juveniles, especially, can be taught to break the cycle even if they’ve witnessed or experienced abuse and considered it “normal.” Adults who threaten or harm animals, their partners and/or their partner’s animals need to understand the impact and consequences of their actions.

As more offenders are required to participate in counseling, the need for trained counselors becomes greater. The ASI regularly holds training workshops in AniCare and AniCare Child programs to give therapists the tools necessary to address animal abusers. Conferences and seminars related to social work, psychology and law enforcement are all appropriate places for lessons about the violence link. Humane societies, police departments and prosecutors’ offices are more closely coordinating the handling and prosecution of cases.

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 • MetroPetMag.com

PROFESSIONAL OUTREACH

A SAFER COMMUNITY

ANICARE TRAINING SESSION IN KANSAS CITY

MetroPet Magazine • J UNE /J ULY 2011

AniCare — Interrupting the Cycle Between Animal Abuse and Violence Towards Humans. AniCare is coming to the Kansas City area with training workshops on Thursday, August 18 and Friday, August 19, 2011. These sessions will be held at the Sunflower House, 15440 West 65th STreet, Shawnee, KS 66217 You must reserve a space and space is limited. For more information visit www.animalsandsociety.org/kc anicare or contact ASI’s Kansas City representative, Heddie Leger at 816-820-5829.

Kansas City is among three metropolitan areas to which the ASI is devoting special resources this year. Thanks to a grant from the Kansas-based Shumaker Family Foundation, the ASI is conducting trainKansas City is among three ing workshops and metropolitan areas to which other education and the ASI is devoting special outreach efforts to build awareness and resources this year. promote a more unified approach to addressing animal abuse crimes. By working with social service agencies, humane societies, law enforcement offices and the judicial system, the goal is to make the Kansas City community safer for its four-legged and two-legged citizens. For more information about AniCare and upcoming workshops go to www.animalsandsociety.org. Heddie is a Certified Humane Educator. She is recipient of the 2011 Excellence Award from the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She is a Community Training Partner for Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and the local Kansas City Area Representative for the Animals and Society Institute. Her compassion for animals extends to all species. You can reach her at the PawZone In-Home PetSitting (www.thepawzone) and The DogSpot Training Center.

Pet of the Week

Winner

July/August Prizes

Boarding & Daycare 2 nights & 2 days, an $80 value

www.broadmorekennels.com

Dog Training Sessions, a $200 value www.kissdogtraining.com

Pet Food - up to a $40 value www.hsgkc.org

Tickets to Art Unleashed

www.americanmidwestkc.com

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ MetroPetMag.com

Submit your photo at metropetmag.com

Help Captain Jack Captain Jack came from an abusive situation, he was run over by a vehicle and left for dead. No one knows if it was on purpose or not. Someone called animal services to pick up his carcass and the shelter worker found he had a breath of life left in him.

HOPE — WHERE THERE WAS NO HOPE

level of CLASS (Canine Life and Social Skills) test, and ultimately moved to level two (Masters Level) and then level three (Doctoral Level).

You can vote for Captain

MetroPet Magazine • J ULY /AUGUST 2011

She took pity on him and took Captain Jack to the vet, the Jack every day through vet did not give him ANY hope. The shelter worker decided to take him home anyway (followed her intuition) August 1. Your support is Captain Jack was paralyzed due to his back being broken greatly appreciated! (fractured vertebrae), his eyeball popped out (it had to be removed) from the pressure of the weight of the vehicle running over him, and his ear drums burst leaving him deaf. Captain Jack PERSEVERANCE was on IV fluids and could not move for three months. He was hand fed He now possesses a PhD in Life and Social a mash. The vet still said “no hope.” Skills. He did all this by learning hand sigThe shelter worker did not give up on Captain Jack, in spite of the odds nals. He is very attentive to looking at you against him. Then one day he wiggled a toe, then a foot, the moved his leg, to see what you want him to do. then wagged his little stubby tail and lifted his head. Eventually, she helped By winning this contest, this little dog him stand up and he began to slowly walk with her help. Captain Jack would demonstrate perseverance in the face gained his mobility, strength and was given a clean bill of health after of adversity, never giving up and faith in months of loving care. Jack was admitted back into the shelter for adopwhat is possible in the face of impossible tion, but everyone walked past the one-eyed dog. Then a stroke of luck... odds and obstacles. He is a living, breathing he was admitted into the Missouri Department of Corrections Puppies for testimony to what is possible when we don’t Parole Program. Jack made such fast progress he passed the CGC and first give up and when we believe in finding opportunity even when none seems to exist. This little dog was mentored by Hero in the Puppies for Parole program with Hero by his side. So in voting for Captain Jack we are honoring the memory of a dog that lived to help others with every single fiber of his being.

LET’S BE A WINNER The winning dog will receive a Hallmark video of his life. Captain Jack’s life would truly make a wonderful story to help others learn from his past life experiences and his hope for the future. Thank you for your Captain Jack and honoring of Hero.

M ETRO P ET R ESOURCE

CAMP BOW WOW, LEE’S SUMMIT, 1010 SE HAMBLEN RD, LEE’S SUMMIT, MISSOURI 64081 • www.campbowwow.com/us/mo/leessummit CAMP BOW WOW, OLATHE, 1150 W. 151ST STREET SUITE D OLATHE, KANSAS 66061 • www.campbowwow.com/us/ks/olathe/

HOW LONG IN BUSINESS? Approximately three years WHY ARE YOU DIFFERENT? Camp Bow Wow, is North America's Premier Doggy Day and Overnight Camp! Our campers play all day in our indoor/outdoor play yards, and you can view them online anytime with our Camper Cams. Most importantly, our Certified Camp Counselors® are expertly trained in dog behavior, safety and health management and are there to ensure your pup has a great time! • All Day Play, Snooze The Night Away • Large Indoor & Outdoor Play Areas • Spacious Cabins with Comfy Cots • Live Camper CamsSM • Bedtime Campfire Tasty Treats

• Certified Camp Counselors® • Camp Buddies is our in-home pet sitting

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF YOUR BUSINESS? Our certified Camp Counselors spend all day taking care of your dogs. Each dog is given ample time to play during the day. At nighttime, our camp counselors give out tasty “Campfire” treats before lights-out for boarding dogs. Campers are tucked into their own spacious, comfy and clean Camp Bow Wow cabin. Each cabin has a comfy bed to curl up on in a climate-controlled atmosphere (sorry, no mint on the pillow)! Campers from the same household can even stay together in the same cabin. Our clients enjoy a web cam monitoring system so they can that make sure their Campers is happy. Our professional security system makes sure they are safe. For those campers who prefer to stay at home, Camp Bow Wow offers Home Buddies — our in home pet sitting.

REASONS YOUR CUSTOMERS COME BACK? We pay attention to the details. We are more than happy to take care of those special requests for your Camper, from medicines and extra treats, to special care for older pups. No detail to too small. We pay attention to them all.

See our ad on page 7

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 • MetroPetMag.com

WHO? CAMP BOW WOW, LEE’S SUMMIT & CAMP BOW WOW, OLATHE WHERE?

Creating the

Perfect Cat by Patty Homer

MetroPet Magazine • J UNE /J ULY 2011

When you bring a pet into the home, whether it is a gold fish, guinea pig, cat or dog, it is then your responsibility to care for it for the rest of its life.

ost every cat owner has heard “dogs have masters, cats have staff.” They seem to have a royal yet sometimes disdainful outlook on all things non-cat. But we sure do love them! Their purr is so comforting we can fall asleep to it. They are comical, sweet, stand-offish, playful and lazy. Lazy? Well maybe during the day, but just wait until we try to sleep — that is when the activity begins. Life is great with a cat until there is a behavior issue, then what? Unfortunately, some people believe that cats are disposable. The cat starts acting out and it ends up in a shelter, euthanized or even worse dropped at the side of a road somewhere. This thinking is (hopefully) outdated and definitely incomprehensible to me. When you bring a pet into the home, whether it is a gold fish, guinea pig, cat or dog — it is then your responsibility to care for it for the rest of its life. Options are limited, however when your cat starts having behavior problems. There are lots of dog trainers who deal with canine behavior issues, but very few who deal with cat behavior issues, but there are some out there. Until recently, the only option most cat owners had was to see a board certified veterinary behaviorist (the closest one in this area is in St. Louis) or a veterinarian that specializes in behavior. However, many dog trainers are widening their horizons and working with cats and their owners. There are 2 things you can easily do that can change some behavior issues including play aggression, destroying or shredding paper, scratching

on furniture and excessive nocturnal activity. Those 2 things are — change the way you feed your cat and increase your cat’s exercise.

CHANGE HOW YOU FEED YOUR CAT Cats are predators, it is in their DNA to hunt, kill and eat their prey. In order to fulfill this need without setting unsuspecting mice or birds free in your home, you can offer food by making them work to eat. There are several products on the market that make your cat work to eat including the Stimulo Cat Feeding Station, Slim Cat Interactive Toy, Pavlov’s Cat

Scratch Feeder and the “puppy” size Kong filled with your cat’s favorite wet food. You can also be creative and make your own “work to eat” toy by taking a small plastic container (like yogurt) and cut holes in it that are big enough for your cat’s kibble to fall through. At first, you want to make it easy for your cat, so cut larger holes and more of them and then slowly adjust to smaller and less holes to make it harder to get the food out. After your cat is used to the idea of working to eat, start hiding the container in a paper bag, a box or leave a couple of them in different rooms for him to find.

Have you ever seen an overweight feral cat? I haven’t! Work to eat is the first step to getting your cat more exercise. Step 2 is — play with your cat! Given the choice, most cats will lie around during the day and then start wondering through the house at night while you try to sleep. Cats love to chase — you will see many toys designed for this as you walk down the cat aisle of any pet store — different items on the end of a string attached to a stick. There are also some great toys like the Flying Fun Interactive cat toy, laser lights, Mouse in the House cat toy and the Peek and Play cat toy (you can search for these products on-line). I recommend having several different toys on hand and rotating them through so your cat doesn’t get bored with them. Indoor cats can be taken outside safely on a leash and harness. Harnesses are much safer than neck collars — if your cat gets scared or starts chasing something and gets to the end of the leash, a harness will stop their body — a collar will stop their neck possibly causing spinal injuries. You can use a long leash made of clothes line with a hook on the end and make it as long as you want; this way your cat can explore, chase and capture bugs to eat (YUM!), roll in the grass and lie in the sunshine. I have even seen people walking their cats like people walk their dogs! Be cautious, though – indoor cats should not be outside unattended, they do not have the skills that outdoor cats have practiced and perfected. Enriching your cat’s environment is the first step to changing unwanted behavior and will make your cat a happy kitty. If your cat exhibits any unwanted or abnormal behavior that it has never shown before, ruling out any medical causes should be your first priority – a visit to the vet is in order, then a call to the trainer. Patty Homer is a Certified Pet Dog Trainer and a Pet First Aid instructor. She has been training dogs for 20 years. She owns Good Pup dog training and boarding in South Kansas City. Her certifications include CPDT-KA (certified through the Certification Counsel of Professional Dog Trainers); CDT certified through the International Association of Canine Professionals. She is the Founder and President of HEARTland Positive Dog Training Alliance. For more information, visit her website at www.goodpupkc.com.

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 • MetroPetMag.com

EXERCISE

The

“Living Room”

Dog by Mike Deathe

the hardest thing any person will ever have to deal with when training their dog…not to mention that it is the starting point in creating a “Living Room” Dog. Another thing you need to understand about the “LIVING ROOM” Dog, is the fact that dogs do not, cannot and will not generalize training the way we humans understand the concept of generalization. If I teach my son to hit a baseball in a batting cage, chances are he will be able to take that skill to a new environment, let’s say a baseball diamond. Unfortunately, dogs often times do not have this ability. Teaching a dog a skill in one environment and expecting it to translate into a different situation or place is just not going to happen in most instances. A good example is that crazy dog that can fetch and retrieve toys inside the house perfectly, but could care less about the game in the backyard. Why is that, do you suppose? Maybe it’s not the fact he/she could care less and it’s more the fact they have not learned the game in that particular situation or environment.

PRACTICE, PRACTICE....

MetroPet Magazine • J ULY /AUGUST 2011

onight at class, one of my students gave me inspiration for this article with one simple question. Why is it that my dog does all the exercises and behaves so well at home, yet completely falls apart when we try the same stuff on his walk? “Simple,” I said, “You have a Living Room Dog!”

3DS OF DOG TRAINING Okay, let me try to make sense out that last statement. Let’s start with the fact that there are 3 Ds in dog training: Duration, Distance and Distraction. And you have to do them in that order to be successful. For example, I must first teach Fido a solid 30 second duration stay and only then do I add, let’s say, 6 feet of distance. Only when I have both duration and distance under my belt and working well will I dream of adding the last and toughest “D”, DISTRACTION. Now, how and why we use and adapt the 3 Ds in training could be its own separate article, but, suffice it to say, that Distractions are

Each time you go to a training class, you go home with your head full of great ideas. You practice every morning before work; you come home and practice every night and everything seems to be going great. Until that one night you decide to take Fido for a walk (instead of practicing in the living room) and all hell breaks loose! Fido doesn’t listen, won’t sit, barks at everything and generally acts like the goon you had before you started training classes. You are embarrassed, not to mention frustrated and probably more than a little out of sorts. This brings us (full circle) to you or my student standing in front of me or any other trainer and pleading to know why your dog falls apart outside the house. Like it or not, you just met the “living room” dog!

DON’T GET FRUSTRATED The problem was not your dog or you. It was the fact that you forgot, or were not taught, about the two critical aspects of training discussed earlier…Distractions and Generalizations. You mistakenly thought your dog would take the things learned in the living room and translate them to the world outside their living room! Remember, the outside world is very distracting. The only way to make a dog reliable in all situations, is to practice in all situations. I hope you take heed of these ideas and are ready to begin training in a slightly different way. If not, it is likely that you too will complain about having a “living room” dog and be one of the many people who only experience the wellbehaved and smart dog in your own living room. Personally, I would prefer to experience life with an “EVERYWHERE” Dog! Mike Deathe is a stay-at-home dad who found his passion as a dog trainer in 2008. The author of the Keep It Simple Stupid (K.I.S.S.) Pet Blog. Mike has had dogs since he was four years old! In 2009, he and his wife Kate founded Muttz “R” Us, a t-shirt and pet product company with a philanthropic motto of “Adopt a Pet, Save a Life.” In 2010 Muttz “R” Us also launched KEEP IT SIMPLE STUPID DOG TRAINING. He is a charter member of Heartland Positive Dog Training Alliance and just earned his CPDT — KA credential! Visit him at facebook or twitter or follow the blog @http://muttzmembers.blogspot.com/ or check out the website muttzrus.com for details about shirts.

M ETRO P ET R ESOURCE

(913) 441-5026, www.broadmorekennels.com • broadmorekennels@sbcglobal.net

HOW LONG IN BUSINESS?

Established in 2002,

owned by Patrick Lais since 2007

WHY ARE YOU DIFFERENT? Broadmore Kennels offers daycare and overnight boarding for both cats and dogs. Broadmore prides itself on the personalized care each animal receives. Dogs are grouped by size, age, temperament and personality. Dogs are placed in groups of six to eight dogs for socialization. They enjoy outdoor playtime six to eight times per day. All boarders receive a free bath after four nights stay AND the Frequent Paws Program provides one free night lodging after your pet has accumulated ten nights boarding. When they say all-inclusive, they mean it!

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF YOUR BUSINESS? FREE trial days for new customers! This allows our staff to evaluate the animals to determine which playgroup will best fit the dog. It also allows the dog to become acquainted with the

kennel environment. We have found that this reduces the separation anxiety your pet may feel. Outdoor areas for the dogs at Broadmore Kennels include a quarter-acre exercise pea gravel play yard, an open artificial turf play yard (less mess on rainy days), and a pea-gravel play yard and indoor play area at the small breed boarding facility. Broadmore is also the home to KISS Dog Training. Trainer Mike Deathe conducts obedience training, puppy classes, and much more at the new facility.

REASONS YOUR CUSTOMERS COME BACK? Always growing to better serve our clients. An expansion in 2011 means the property includes 10 acres and over 7,300 square feet in two buildings. Broadmore’s capacity is now about 100 dogs and 16 cats. The new building was completely remodeled to provide a designated cattery with individual cages with elevated beds for 16 cats plus a feline exercise area. This new building also features a dedicated small breed kennel for dogs weighing less than 15 pounds We are proud that our “dog” clients are happy — then they come back to play and/or stay.

See our ad inside front cover.

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 • MetroPetMag.com

WHO? BROADMORE KENNELS WHERE? 20614 WEST 47TH STREET, SHAWNEE, KS 66218

Your Pet Died... What Happens to its Remains by Nancy Piper

MetroPet Magazine • J UNE /J ULY 2011

he pet death care industry is changing. Pet death care started out as a disposal service using rendering companies where our large and small animal companions were made into fertilizer and other commercial products. Later, the method of pet disposal changed to mass cremation. Finally someone asked, “May I have my pet’s ashes back?” And a company thought, yes — I can put the pet in the corner and sweep it out first. Gradually that changed. Several pets were cremated in a separate chamber. The cremated remains were swept out in reverse order in order to return the pets’ cremated remains to their right families. However, it is inevitable that the cremated remains are co-mingled. When people, who thought of pets as family, started getting involved with pet death care, things changed. Those individuals wanted to make sure that pets were handled as humans are handled in the cremation procedure. That is, one pet should be cremated at a time so the family would receive their own pet back. One group who taken this process a step farther, or even a giant leap farther. This group is called the Pet Loss Professionals Alliance

(PLPA). The PLPA is a group of like-minded pet-loss care providers who are working to foster a high level of ethics and training within our profession. We are focused on establishing sound business practices and standards among our ranks and on promoting the value of quality pet-loss care to the public and veterinarians.

PLPA MISSION STATEMENT The Pet Loss Professionals Alliance is committed to being an educational resource to its members. The membership, including pet loss suppliers and pet death care facility operators, is dedicated to the respectful and dignified treatment of those pets entrusted to us. We do this through the creation of programs to profitably meet the changing needs of the pet death care industry and our process partners in the areas of cemeteries, crematories and pet loss facilities, as well as the creation of standards to willfully meet our customers’ expectations.

DEFINITIONS/TERMINOLOGY • Private cremation: A cremation procedure during which only one animal’s body is present in the cremation unit during the cremation process. • Partitioned cremation: A cremation procedure during which more than one pet's body is present in the cremation chamber and the cremated remains of specific pets are to be returned. Due to a number of factors and by virtue of multiple pets being cremated within the same unit at the same time, active commingling of cremated remains will occur. • Communal cremation: A cremation procedure where multiple animals are cremated together without any form of separation. These commingled cremated remains are not returned to owners.

• Cremation process: The heating process that reduces human or animal remains to bone fragments, followed by the processing that reduces bone fragments to unidentifiable dimensions. • Commingling: Mixing of cremated remains.

STANDARDS FOR CREMATION PROCEDURES Single Pet — “One at a Time” Cremation Procedures • Private Cremation: Any cremation procedure deemed “Private” must be performed with only one pet’s body or cremated remains in the cremation unit during the cremation process. Only “one pet at a time” will be cremated when a Private Cremation is performed. All retrievable cremated remains should be collected from each cremation prior to placing the next animal’s body in the cremation unit. Operators may not use the word “Private” in the title or description of any service in which more than one animal is cremated in any part of a single cremation unit at the same time. (i.e., “Semi-Private,” “Privately Partitioned,” is not acceptable).

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 • MetroPetMag.com

Members of the PLPA recognize that we have special obligations to the pets, families and other businesses that we serve. As guardians of pets in death, we pledge: • To care for the remains of those entrusted to us with dignity, respect and professional skill, whether at a clinic, funeral home, crematory or cemetery • To honor the wishes of the family and to serve all families with respect, understanding and confidentiality • To protect and preserve all interment sites and relevant historical data entrusted to us • To be guided by the spirit and letter of all applicable laws and regulations set by governing bodies with jurisdiction over our activities in the ownership, management and operation of a funeral home, crematory, cemetery or related endeavor • To be an educational resource and guide in standards relating to final pet death care options for our client families as well as our process partners

ASK QUESTIONS It is the PLPA’s position that any company using the words “Private” or “Individual” in the definition and/or description of their cremation processes be expected to perform the procedure in the same manner as private cremations are performed by PLPA members.

MetroPet Magazine • J ULY /AUGUST 2011

MULTIPLE PET CREMATION PROCEDURES

• Partitioned Cremation — PLPA members will be expected to follow strict guidelines when/if performing this sort of cremation procedure. Full disclosure is expected from membership. The words “private” and/or “individual” are not to be used in whole or in part in the description and/or definition of this type of procedure. At the very least, some contiguous method of effective physical separation—not just space— should be employed in order to keep co-mingling to a minimum. Co-mingling of cremated remains will occur with this type of cremation and will vary based upon conditions in the cremation chamber, height and type of the partitioning medium used, amount of space between animals, method of retrieval employed, and other factors. • Communal Cremation — While allowing for some practical considerations at the discretion of the PLPA member, PLPA membership will be expected to treat the bodies of pets designated for communal cremation with respect and dignity at all times possible. This primarily includes, but is not limited to: 1. Completing the cremation expeditiously if cold storage is not available. 2. Minimizing or eliminating any amount of rough-handling of animals. The final disposition of the cremated remains is to be disclosed to clients, but these cremated remains are not to be returned to clients in whole or in part. Unless otherwise prohibited in an operator’s jurisdiction, the PLPA recommends dignified disposition of the cremated remains, such as scattering or interment in a location that families may visit. Cremated remains of companion animals should not be disposed of in the garbage or land fill unless doing so is required by law of that jurisdiction. Operators should also disclose what the final disposition area is for the consumer. • Family Cremation — A special type of multiple-pet cremation procedure performed at the request of a single owner or family during which pets from the same family, and only pets from the same family, are cremated together.

Be aware that there are various options for the cremation or burial of your beloved pet. Ask questions ahead of the time of need, if possible, so you can make an informed decision that is right for you and your pet. If your pet dies unexpectedly, ask for time to make a decision, if you need it. To find the pet cemeteries and crematories in your area, look in the yellow pages book or the yellow pages online under Pet Cemeteries and Crematories. You can also ask your veterinarian whom he/she uses. Then make phone calls. Ask detailed questions. You can call the cremation facility more than once. As you come up with more questions, call back. For the utmost peace of mind, visit the cremation facility that you are considering using. After all, they will be handling your beloved pet. Ask for a tour. Ask for an explanation of their procedures. Make sure you are comfortable with the people and the facility. If the staff at the facility won’t show you everything and explain what their procedures are, or if you are offended by anything you encounter there, then it probably isn’t the place to use for your loved one. For more information regarding the Pet Loss Professionals Alliance, go to w w w. i c c f a . c o m / n o d e / 2 5 6 2 / AboutPLPA The PLPA is a committee of the International Cemeteries, Crematories and Funeral Association, which is the only international trade association representing all segments of the cemetery, funeral service, cremation and memorialization profession. Nancy Bush Piper has owned Rolling Acres Memorial Gardens for Pets, a pet cemetery, crematorium, and funeral home in Kansas City for over 31 years. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and sociology from Northwest Missouri State University. Nancy continued her education in the cemetery industry, attending the International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association University for two years, where she also taught a course one year. She was certified as a Grief Recovery Specialist in 1999 by the Grief Recovery Institute, Sherman Oaks, CA. Nancy worked in the human cemetery and funeral industry before, as well as after, she became involved with the after-life care of pets. Nancy and her husband, Gary, are blessed with many animals in their lives. www.visitrollingacres.com

Dog Retreat Weekend to aid Pets Marilyn Hughes

PET EXPO FEATURES The Pet Expo will feature vendors, demos, dog contests, speakers, art show, dog spa, an agility course, seminars plus a huge pet adoption area. There will also be raffles and plenty of free samples. A free kids corner tent will offer games and educational opportunities for children. Dr Wayne Hunthausen, DVM is scheduled to speak at 11:00 Saturday. Hunthausen is a world renowned animal behaviorist and the author of many books. Peggy Oertwig will teach a pet first aid class. And Misty Kapitza will speak on introducing a new furry family member. All seminars are free.

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ON-SITE DOGGY DAY CARE On-site drop in doggy day care will be available from 11 am — 2 pm on Saturday for a $5 an hour donation. Sunday August 28th, a benefit pancake breakfast is scheduled with other activities to be announced. Dog Retreat is a fundraiser for Excelsior Springs Friends of Animals (ESFOA). All monies raised benefit’s ESFOA’s animal care fund.

ROOMS AT THE ELMS HOTEL Rooms are available at the Elms for those who wish to stay the weekend. Those who stay at the hotel rooms will receive a free goody bag if they ask for a Dog Retreat room when booking. The non-profit organization based in Excelsior Springs aids homeless pets and pet owners from all over the Kansas City area. The organization’s website is www.esfoa.org. You can reach ESFOA at 816-630-0696 or by email at info@esfoa.org.

J ULY /AUGUST 2011 • MetroPetMag.com

The 4th annual Dog Retreat at The Elms will be held August 26, 27, 28 at The Elms in Excelsior Springs, just 20 minutes north of Kansas City. The Elms is set on 16 picturesque acres and activities will be held inside and outside the pet friendly hotel. Well-behaved, vaccinated dogs are welcomed-but they must be on leashes. Dog Retreat Weekend kicks off Friday evening August 26th at dark — with a $1 movie on the lawn for people and dogs. On Saturday August 27th The day starts early. A 5k Run/1 mile walk is scheduled with an 8:30 am race start. After the race, a Pet Expo runs from 10 am — 4 pm.

Dog-n-Jog:

A Woofing Success! The Country Club Plaza became a dog’s play land on Sunday, June 12 for the 24th Annual Dog-n-Jog. More than 1,000 dogs descended up the beautiful Plaza for the 1 and 2-mile run/walk to enjoy the various dog activities. Special thanks to our celebrity emcees that kept the dog loving entertained: NBC Chief Meteorologist Gary Lezak, KFKF radio host Debbie Erikson and Q104 radio host TJ McEntire.

A SUCCESS!

MetroPet Magazine • J UNE ULY /A /J ULY UGUST 2011 2011

The event raised more than $50,000 for the shelter animals through registrations, sponsorships, day-of activities and pledge collectors. A big thank you to our top three pledge collectors that went above and beyond to collect donations for the shelter pets from their friends, family, neighbors and co-workers: Crissy McNellis raised $3,800, Stacey Rieckmann raised $2,600 and Patty Levine raised $2,010. These three women singlehandedly raised enough money to keep all the shelter pets fed for the next four months! Our top runners this year included some familiar faces and some new faces: 1 Mile Run 1st Place Female — Lisa Imgrund, dog McKenzie; 5:20 2nd Place Female —Julia Rosher, dog Splash; 5:37 3rd Place Female —Stephanie Mingos, dog Rocky (female); 5:55 1st Place Male —John Quinly, dog Meg; 5:21 2nd Place Male — James McCormick, dog Mattie; 5:59 3rd Place Male —John Rosher, dog Ripley; 6:21

2 Mile Run 1st Place Female — Amy Schmitz, dog Winston; 11:13 2nd Place Female — Angie Moody, dog Lucy; 11:42 3rd Place Female — Cassie Blankenship, dog Lyla; 13:03 1st Place Male — Kevin McCormick, dog Saf; 10:43 2nd Place Male — Bruce Campbell, dog Boss; 11:45 3rd Place Male — James McCormick, dog Mattie; 11:54 Winners of our other contests include: Dog Costume Contest — Dr. Enrique – Companion Jamie Johnson (from Banfield Pet Hospital), see photo above Cutest Dog Contest — Hanna the Mastiff — Companion Yurie Heard To view pictures of the event, visit www.thomasphotographic.com. (A portion of event photo purchased will be donated to the Humane Society.)

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