MetroPet June Issue 2009 by ROI Marketing

Free to Readers

June 2009

JUNE 2009

Feature Articles

In Every Issue

The Grad Pack Some remarkable children and one dog are making their graduation a memorable one.

10 14

Dog Horoscopes How well do you really know your dog?

How Cute is Your Pet? This month’s winners of the metropetmag.com contest.

First Impressions If you’re considering adopting a pet from the shelter, keep in mind that the animals aren’t always showing their true selves.

Big Bangs are No Fun for Boomer How to keep your pet safe during the loud celebrations.

Happy Spring — Almost Summer!

Cat Tip-Toes into DJ’s Life Dave O shares his story about the cats that have changed his life.

Welcome Pet Lovers

Cat Horoscopes How well do you know your cat?

Ask the Groomer The struggles of toe nail trimming!

Home Is Where the Heart Is Your pet should be able to go with you into a retirement community — right?

5 Travel Tips for Your Pet

Ask the Vet Find out more about your pet’s teeth.

Upcoming Events

Have fun on your vacation and be safe too!

Simple Things Keep it simple during tough times.

Acupuncture for Animals?

MetroPet Resource 32

Animal Emergency & Referral Hospital

Alternative & complimentary treatments for animals.

On Front Cover — Amelia, a rescue dog, is a Dachshund/Beagle/Spaniel mix.

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Publisher’s Message

Happy Spring – Almost Summer! As you begin the summer – STOP! Take time out for yourself, and spend some time with your animals.

GREAT ARTICLES This issue includes some great articles about spending time with your animal friends, enjoying the summer holidays and saving money. See the articles “Big Bangs are No Fun for Boomer” page 14 and, “Simple Things” page 25. Also, better understand toenail clipping, dental cleaning and acupuncture and other treatments from the experts. Thinking about expanding your family to include a pet? Consider adopting from a shelter. The article about “First Impressions,” page 18, gives some tips about adopting animals from shelters. Did a pet “invite” itself into your family? You are not alone. Check out the article from a local DJ about a cat who tiptoed into his life!

PETS AT HOME = HEALTHIER LIVES? Ask anyone with a pet if his or her life is better because of the pet. The short answer – absolutely yes! Last month, we had an article about moving into a rental unit with your pet. This month we explore the idea of pets in retirement communities. Check out the great article on page 20. Oh, and don’t miss the cute article about Kindergartners and a special dog on page 6.

GET A COPY This magazine if FREE to readers. You can pick it up at most CVS stores, BlockBuster locations, and our advertisers. You can also read it at hundreds of doctor offices and online. A complete list of pick-up locations is on the web at www.metropetmag.com.

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS! Last but not least, please remember to support our advertisers. I honestly believe that MetroPet Magazine has the best advertisers. This magazine is better because of them and their support. Have a great summer!

Barbara Riedel, Publisher

P.S. Please remember to support our advertisers. This magazine is growing and is FREE to you — because of them!

Staff & Contacts Publisher Barbara Riedel info@metropetmag.com

Editor/Production Manager Dan O'Leary editor@metropetmag.com

Layout/Graphic Design Alison Fieber info@metropetmag.com

Web Master Jon Dunn info@metropetmag.com

Advertising Sales adsales@metropetmag.com

Contributing Authors Allyson McNitt Cheryl Wyrick Dave O Deborah Pack Lisa Ploch Swope Micheal Tarrant, DVM, CVA Pat Hennessy Dr. Paul Klausen, DDS, DVM Suezanne Law

Photographer Dan O'Leary

Contact MetroPet PO Box 480065 Kansas City, MO 64148 Phone: 913.548.1433 Fax: 816.941.4655 Publishing Policy: Articles printed in the MetroPet Magazine express the opinions of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the formal position of MetroPet Magazine. Acceptance of advertising does not necessarily constitute endorsement by MetroPet Magazine. Articles: Readers are invited to submit articles for consideration for publication to editor@metropetmag.com. All materials are subject to editorial review. © 2009 MetroPet Magazine. All rights reserved. Request reprint permissions at info@metropetmag.com.

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The Grad Pack

by Deborah Pack

KINDERGARTEN Jonathan Douglas Lyrah Buddemeyer Emily Knight Kyrie Leistico Victoria McCann Madeline the Bulldog (will be nine months old at graduation)

PRE-KINDERGARTEN Skyler Blacksher Mia Mondragon Emilee Reeves Caydence Lee Anthony Ade Shareef Traish Jessica Reynolds

PRE-K & KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS Lorie Misenhelter Deborah Pack â&#x20AC;&#x201D; owner of Madeline 6

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rs. Pack is the Prekindergarten and co-Kindergarten teacher at Outreach Christian School in Avondale, Missouri. Some remarkable children are making their graduation a memorable one.

A BUSY SCHEDULE The kindergarten students at Outreach Christian Elementary have been very busy preparing for their graduation day on May 21, 2009. Like other graduates, they practiced lining up, walking across the stage and accepting their diploma. What makes this kindergarten class different from all others is that following behind the five graduates is a special student that has four legs and is wearing a graduation cap.

CLASS CORICULUM This four-legged student is Madeline and she is an English Bulldog puppy that started class in October when she were only eight weeks old. The kindergarten and pre-kindergarten class was taught by

Like other graduates, they practiced lining up, walking across the stage and accepting their diploma.

Mrs. Pack, with the help of Pet Smart, how to properly care and train Madeline. The students fed, watered, and potty trained her each day and learned hand commands to teach her to sit, lie, and stay. Loving and playing with Madeline just came naturally. After class, the students with animals go home and practice with their pets.

KINDERGARTEN CHALLENGE Now that school is coming to an end, the kindergarten and prekindergarten class faces the challenge of getting Madeline to cross the stage and accept her diploma. Each day they practice and reward her with treats as she prepares for the big day. After graduation, the class hopes that Madeline will continue her puppy training and become a citizen. Once she is a citizen, she will be allowed to go to hospital and nursing homes to bring a smile to people’s faces. She lets them know she wouldn’t be where she is today if it weren’t for going to kindergarten.

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Canine Signs

Gemini (May 21 - June 21)

The Yapper Physically, the Gemini Dog is likely to be slightly underweight due to the fact that he or she goes everywhere “at the double.” An alert and graceful creature, the nervous energy of the Gemini Dog enables this canine to keep going all day, should the need arise...and even when there is no need.

Taurus (Apr. 20 - May 20)

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22)

The Strong Silent Type This canine may be led, but never driven. However, if allowed to move at a slow pace, the Taurus Dog has no problem in doing what is asked of them. Being close to the owner is heaven to this canine and in order to ensure comfort and security when the family is away from home, it is necessary to leave something with the Taurus Dog which contains their owner’s scent.

The Boss-Dog Regal of bearing, erect of stance and commanding of presence, the Leo Dog will always be the perfect specimen, no matter what the breed might be. Confident, fearless and proud, with a wellproportioned body, slender legs and graceful gait, this canine is utterly charismatic and makes for the ideal showdog.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22)

The Helper The Virgo Dog is a genuine domestic creature, more resigned than any other Sign of the Zodiac to play the role of pet. In fact, he or she will feel totally comfortable in this position and accept it without a single murmur. This canine will be in his or her element as a friend and companion living with humans, and will strive to be the perfect pet.

The Home-Lover Possesses the capability to go further into specialized or obedience training, but once this canine is old enough to make their own decisions, then stock will be taken of what has been taught and there will be a prompt rejection of anything that does not appeal.

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Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22)

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) The Shop-Steward If an owner really cannot handle that and wants to continue to keep this canine as a happy pet, then the only answer will be to cut out the human visitors. Nonetheless, the Libra Dog is possessed of a gentle manner and a great desire to please, usually remaining a loving soul as long as the love is returned.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) The Paragon The house belongs totally to the Scorpio Dog and an owner will be expected to maintain it according to this canine’s exacting specifications. The Scorpio Dog demands (and gets) a full eight hours of undisturbed sleep every night and those hours of rest will be spent in the warmest and most comfortable place...even if that just happens to be the chair where their owner wanted to watch TV.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) The Problem Dog A complex character with a basic problem which belongs to this dog alone: to which of the two forces at work within does he or she truly belong...the canine or the equine? Most of the time, the Sagittarius Dog will not know whether to wag their tail or use it to keep the flies from an owner’s face.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 20) The Social Climber As the human in this relationship

becomes more houseproud, then so will the Capricorn Dog, turning into an immaculate member of the family who never puts a paw out of place. When it comes to social interaction, the Capricorn Dog really comes into his or her own.

Aquarius (Jan. 21 - Feb. 18) The Friend The Aquarius Dog is determined (albeit in a quiet and inoffensive way) to unearth the truth about everything and everyone. To this canine, knowing a little about anything is tantamount to knowing nothing at all.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20) The Interpreter An unpredictable soul whose mind changes from one minute to the next, the life of the Pisces Dog will an endless ebb and flow of moods, changeability and contrariness as inner feelings pull him or her in every direction. This canine will hardly ever know if he or she is coming or going...or even been there already.

Aries (Mar. 21 - Apr. 19) Leader of the Pack Physically, the Aries Dog is an active, energetic and urgent type of canine with an almost endless capacity for exercise who demands (and needs) long walks several times a day. This dog will enjoy a variety of activities, such as agility classes or playing frisbee.

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Mama Kiki

February of 1991 I was ten years old and growing up in Lincoln, Nebraska. My Mother is a cat lover, which of course means she’s allergic — one of life’s shames. However, a gift to my Mother and family was delivered on those cold winter days of 1991, as a stray calico Mother cat that we kindly dubbed “Mama Kiki” entered our lives. At the time, Mama Kiki was deathly afraid of human beings, not allowing her kittens or herself within 40 feet of us. We would leave food outside and she would eat it from a distance. We would watch Mama Kiki teach her children how to hunt. It took a year, and her original kittens disappeared, hit by cars or picked up by Animal Control, but we built trust with Mama Kiki, and eventually were able to touch her.

March of 1993

Cat Tip-Toes into DJ’s Life

Fast-forward to March of 1993, a month after my parents split up and a time where all three of us (my Mom, sister and I) needed something to love and embrace more than ever. It must have been 10° outside with snow on the ground, and as we walked back inside for the night, ready to go to bed, a pregnant Mama Kiki “asked” to come in for the first time ever. She ran in before we could even close the door.

Sometimes a cat just needs a little love by Dave O KC

he day that Tippy officially joined my family was last July. Unofficially, however, she had a connection to my heart a long time ago. 10

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Special Delivery Later that night, she delivered five kittens in our bathroom and eventually, raised them in our garage. Soon after, Mama Kiki became half indoor, half outdoor and upon getting her

She sits on top of my television and enjoys watching the Royals with me every night. spade, we discovered from the vet that she had six BB’s inside of her from gunshots — no wonder she had been so afraid! The years came and went, and since my Mother was so allergic, Mama Kiki ended up living with my sister, my Uncle and finally, during the last two years of her life, with me. The “feral cat” that had been shot and up against bitter cold winters of Nebraska lived a life that saw her move from Lincoln to Dallas to Chicago to Lincoln to Charlotte to Jacksonville.

July of 2008

Continued -->

I’d drive home from work each night and park among the palm trees of Florida, often times dodging a storm, before walking into my apartment. Most nights an extremely skinny, almost malnourished grey cat, with a fox-like thick tail and lion-like hair around the neck would greet me when I got home. She couldn’t have been more than seven or eight months old. The cat wasn’t near as scared of me as Mama Kiki had been, but she certainly

A New Suprise! Then one night in April of 2007, after completing my radio show in Florida’s most beautiful city, I arrived home to find Mama Kiki paralyzed on the floor. She was unable to move and unable to blink. I, of course, was unable to cope, and to this day, that 2 A.M. trip to the vet to have Mama Kiki put to sleep is the worst night of my life. I can’t even begin to express how much pain I felt. Mama Kiki was cremated and put into a beautiful cat statue, her ashes sealed and never again to be opened. She sits on top of my television and enjoys watching the Royals with me every night. When Mama Kiki passed, I dedicated my life to being kind to creatures, specifically cats, and especially stray cats. I volunteered at the Jacksonville Humane Society and helped find homes for many of the stray cats in my neighborhood, as Florida has the most stray cats per capita of any state in the United States. However, I never expected to take another stray cat in, especially after adding KC the cat to my family following Mama Kiki’s death. After all, as a 27year-old man, having a second cat would make me a cat lady, right?

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<-- Continued wouldn’t let me touch her or get closer than 6-8 feet. She lived underneath cars and in a certain bush, and her fur was dirty, the daily Florida thunderstorms taking a toll. After awhile, I began feeding her wet food and soon after, I was allowed to touch her. The first time I did, I was shocked to see her get up on two legs like a human and walk two steps toward my hand, lifting her head up to touch it. I literally said, “Tippy. Your name is Tippy. You’re walking on your tiptoes. Tippy.” From that night on, Tippy became friendlier and friendlier, and continued to walk on two’s like a human whenever I would attempt to touch her. Soon after, Tippy would be asleep by my door at night, waiting for me to get home, and it was at that point that I contacted Cat Angels, a

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Tippy became friendlier and friendlier, and continued to walk on two’s like a human whenever I would attempt to touch her. Tippy

local non-profit organization dedicated to finding cats “forever homes.” With their help, I had Tippy spade and agreed to socialize her in my home until we could find her a permanent home. But whom was I kidding? She was mine and I was hers.

A Chance at Life

A year has passed and while Tippy is still scared of most other people, she is healthy, happy and full of love. She has the same gentle, caring soul that Mama Kiki had. She gets along with KC and they’re best of friends. Like Mama Kiki, she has moved states and is now a Kansas City cat. Meanwhile, Mama Kiki sits on top of the television, no doubt smiling, for she knows that she is the reason this former scraggly, barely alive stray cat named Tippy has gotten a chance to live the life she deserves. Dave O is the voice you hear inside of your radio each afternoon as you drive home with Mix 93.3. He can be reached via e-mail at daveo@mix93.com J UNE 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

BIG BANGS are No Fun for Boomer by Pat Hennessy

time honored American tradition, at the mid-point of summer, is to celebrate our Freedom. We do that with picnics, baseball games, hot dogs or BBQ, lemonade or beer. And, to top it all off we make a whole bunch of noise. We know on July 3rd we will wake up the next morning with a bang and there may be several loud pops off and on throughout the day. To our pets though, it probably seems as if we are at war. With their heightened sense of hearing, they would prefer to escape the noise. More animals are lost over the 4th of July than other times during the year. Boomer may be just as patriotic as you are, but you can make it much easier on him if you plan ahead and follow some basic safety tips.

Don’t take your animal companion to fire-

DON’T works displays. It will be quieter and safer at home. With the crowds, the smoke, and the noise, it is not something your 14

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Don’t make the same mistake thousands of American’s do each 4th of July.

dog will enjoy. The sound alone can be unbearable (your dogs hearing is up to three times more sensative than a humans).

DON’T

Never leave your pet in the car. The temperature can become

deadly in a matter of a few minutes in a closed car. Leaving the windows open only provides an opportunity for your dog to escape or be stolen.

Never leave pets unattended

DON’T in a yard, (even if fenced), or

on a chain. In an anxious state your pet may jump a fence or dig out and become lost or injured, and on a cable or a chain your pet runs the risk of injury or death by choking or getting tangled.

Keep your animal companions indoors. Provide a quiet comfortable area for

them to stay — a room downstairs (farther from the sound), a closet, or an open crate (offer this option if they are used to a crate and consider it a “safe place”). Leave a TV or radio on at a normal volume, which will provide some background noise and mask some of the distant fireworks. If your dog is not bothered much by the noise, you may offer an appropriate chew toy as you would if you were leaving any other time (toys you know are safe to leave with him). If your dog is bothered by the noise, then you will want to pick up items that he could tear up — some dogs get destructive when frightened.

Make sure your pets are wearing identification. It is important to always have

a current ID tag on your companion animal, because if an individual or family finds your pet, the first thing they will look for is the tag and that is the quickest way they can get your pet back to you. Animal shelters, and some veterinarians, can scan for a microchip. Continued -->

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<-- Continued

ALONG WITH THE BASIC SAFETY TIPS, IF YOUR PET IS TRULY DISTRESSED BY LOUD NOISES, CONSIDER ADDITIONAL OPTIONS • Stay home with your pets. Having a familiar family member with them, who is calm, can be the first step in lowering their anxiety. • Take a non-pharmaceutical approach of using TTouch™ techniques (gentle touch and body wraps — always with supervision), or a specifically designed body-wear item called the Anxiety Wrap™ (a more formal version of the TTouch method). The fabric brings body awareness, influences the nervous system, and has a calming effect. • Add aromatherapy to the mix — lavender oil works well for us and our animal companions, but formulas specifically for them include the pheromone versions

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(DAP for dogs and Feliway for cats). • Try flower essences, such as Rescue Remedy™ or natural supplements which have herbal ingredients, such as Calmazon™ with Chamomile and Passion Flower, or ProQuiet™ with L-Tryptophan, Chamomile and Ginger. • If the noise phobia is severe and you feel you need something stronger, be aware that some drugs will relax the muscles but not the mind. Consult with your veterinarian. While you are sipping your tea, enjoying your freedom, and honoring the red, white & blue; remember Boomer is loyal, unconditionally loving, and trustingly counting on you. Pat Hennessy, is the founder of N2paws, LLC, an organization that provides companion animal attunement through behavior education, energy work, and positive training methods. Pat is a certified 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.

How Cute is Your Pet? Snap a photo of your cutie. Submit the photo at metropetmag.com. Your pet could land a spot on this page! If your pet’s photo doesn’t make the magazine, it may be on the website!

Lulu Belle — This is Lulu. He’s a 2 year old English Spot Bunny. He loves to run around the house and jump and spin. When he hears the sound of his favorite treat (popcorn) he goes crazy. He’s a real good bunny. Litter box trained and loves my other pets. (dogs, chicken, birds). Submitted by Faith Brink.

Libby & Katie — We think that Libby (left) & Katie (right) are getting ready to say their prayers — probably asking that they each become the ONLY kitty in our house as they barely tolerate each other! Submitted by Karen Myers.

Maverick — “Be berry, berry quiet” I’m fishing! Submitted by Susan Baer.

Natasha — This is Natasha doing one of her favorite things, playing with the sprinkler. Submitted by Joe Thamas.

Some abused or neglected animals that are new to the shelters are frequently nervous and scared, and some cower in the corners of their kennels. ABUSED OR NEGLECTED

First Impressions They are not always what they seem by Allyson McNitt

hen a family looks to adopt a pet, a pet’s first impression on potential adopters is often a critical one. However, when people seek out adoptable animals, it is important to understand that the first impression an animal makes, especially in a shelter setting, is not always an accurate representation of how the animal will behave once adopted into his or her forever home. In addition to suddenly becoming homeless, oftentimes a shelter animal has been through any number of traumatic experiences, including but not limited to abuse, neglect, death of an owner, or owner abandonment. Such experiences can easily influence the pet’s behavior in a shelter setting, and is not an accurate way of gauging how well the pet will fit into a new home. 18

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Some abused or neglected animals that are new to the shelters are frequently nervous and scared, and some cower in the corners of their kennels. Potential adopters who see this kind of behavior may assume that the frightened animal may be likely to bite children, adults, or other animals, and disregard that pet in favor of a more outgoing pet. With this in mind, shelters and rescue groups often go above and beyond the minimum amount of effort required to ensure pets receive the best possible match for their new homes. Shelter staff and volunteers spend hours each day with these pets. They slowly work to earn the animal’s trust, and little by little, begin to see the pet’s personality break through the fear. While the animal may become comfortable with shelter staff and volunteers and display enthusiastic behavior with those people, there is still a chance that the animal may continue to act shy or scared with strangers. If this is the case, people who wish to adopt pets would benefit from understanding that this behavior is not a reflection of people, and certainly does not indicate that the pet would always act shy in a forever home.

A CLASSIC EXAMPLE — BRUCE WAYNE A classic example of this lies in the story of a white terrier mix fostered with one of the staff members of the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City (HSGKC). The dog was left tied to the front porch of a house when his owners abandoned him. When a staff member from HSGKC met the terrified dog at a Kansas City, Missouri shelter, the dog, named Bruce Wayne for his large, bat-like ears, refused to come out of his cage. After about twenty minutes of gentle coaxing and patience, Bruce Wayne finally emerged from his cage. When he arrived at his new foster home, his personality drastically changed; he became a friendly, loving, and vivacious dog, and was adopted shortly thereafter.

MAKING EFFORTS Shelter staff members make efforts to familiarize themselves with their animals’ personalities and quirks. In addition to their own personal experiences with the ani-

mals, they also receive feedback from volunteers who work with the animals. When a person or a family decides to adopt a pet, it is important to listen carefully to staff members and ask a lot of questions about the animal in order to get a better grasp on the animalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personality, as well as how well the animal might fit into a specific home.

ONE-ON-ONE TIME IS IMPORTANT Occasionally, some shelter situations cause pets to exhibit stressed behaviors. When all dogs are barking, the noise can exacerbate an already frightened animalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fear, which may result in a skittish or defensive behavior, such as growling, barking, or crying. This does not always fare well with potential adopters, who see a growling dog and assume it to be aggressive. However, if an adopter has the opportunity to take the dog into a quiet room away from the barking, and spend some one-on-one time with the pet, the person will be able to tell, in a short time if that pet is right for his or her family. In the world of shelter pets, first impressions should be taken in stride. In many cases, a traumatized pet may take some patience, dedication, and socialization before the unique personality fully emerges, but the rewards are not only great for the adopter, but last a lifetime for the adopted pet. Allyson McNitt is a longtime volunteer of the HSGKC, and is passionately committed to helping shelter and rescue animals. She received her BA at the University of Kansas, and received her MA from Emporia State University.

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Home Is Where the Heart Is

Del and Vanessa

by Suezanne Law

Take Your Pet with You

I ask Edna if Ginger’s coat is the color poodle-lovers call apricot. “”That’s what color she used to be — now she’s grey, like me,” Edna quips, her lined face creased more deeply by a smile. We sit in Edna’s apartment on a sunny afternoon in spring. Edna tells me about her dog.

“Ginger loves to see visitors,” she says, though Ginger, at 16, is blind and deaf. “The people here just love her. They want to touch her.” Thinning clouds of spice-colored fur cover the small dog’s back as she nestles in her bed. I understand the desire Edna’s neighbors feel to bury their fingers in that comfort. In fact, that’s what Edna calls Ginger: “My special comfort.” 20

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Edna and Ginger

A SWEETER LIFE Edna and Ginger live at Sweet Life Rosehill, an assisted living facility where life is, indeed sweet — and made sweeter still by the fact that many residents are able to

Wanna Go? What:

Annual Dog Days of Summer

Who:

Sweet Life Rosehill, a Brookdale Senior Living Community

When:

June 27, 2009 weather permitting

Where:

12802 Johnsons Drive Shawnee, KS

Cost:

FREE

Living with her makes me happier: very happy.” term results for maintaining lower blood pressure. However, as these types of lifestyles require discipline and effort, they are frequently underutilized.” But living with pets necessitates a different kind of discipline and effort: one many people both young and old happily undertake. “I’ve always had cats and dogs,” Del says, as she strokes the calico fur of her cat, Vanessa. “After I moved here,” she muses, indicating her cozy Sweet Life abode — so similar to Edna’s rooms, and yet so different — “I adopted Vanessa. Living with her makes me happier: very happy.”

Details: Bring you furry four legged-friend

with you to enjoy a morning of education, goodies and lots of fun from local pet vendors. Call 913-962-7600 for more details. bring their pets into care with them. “Bringing their pets with them gives residents a sense of purpose and responsibility,” says Sweet Life Rosehill Director of Social Work Jenny Hellman. For many, she continues, the bonds they share with their pets run deep: “They need each other.”

EMOTIONAL BENEFITS “The emotional benefits of animals to humans is something nearly every pet owner will attest to,” write researchers Jane E. Luptak and Nancy A. Nuzzo. Increases in social interaction, psychosocial function, life satisfaction, and mental function in elderly patients have been attributed to living with and caring for pets; so have decreased depression, and improved social competence and psychological well-being. But Luptak and Nuzzo set out to test whether interaction with animals likewise affected the physical health of elderly people. Their research suggests it does.

PHYSICAL BENEFITS Though drawn from a limited sample, Luptak’s and Nuzzo’s work shows a significant decrease in both the heart-rates and blood pressure of elderly women who interacted with dogs — even though those dogs were not previously known to the women. They write, “Alternative activities such as relaxation exercises, yoga, and calming music are commonly suggested, and studies have shown that a low fat, low sodium diet in conjunction with a stress free environment have the best long-

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Health benefits attributed to interacting with or caring for pets • Slower heart rate • Lower blood pressure • Improved mortality rates after hospitalization for coronary artery disease • Increase in social interaction, psychosocial function, life satisfaction, and mental function • Improvement in depression, social competence, and psychological wellbeing • Significant reduction in minor health problems • Increased exercise • Improved speech and emotional reactions from nonverbal or withdrawn, uncommunicative patients • More nurturing behavior and affection from violent-prone individuals • More positive attitudes among people involved in caring for the terminally ill

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Her eyes shine with a light that matches the gold in Vanessa’s fur. Dr. James Serpell would agree. A well-known animal behavior scientist from Cambridge University in England, Serpell conducted a study on the effects of pet ownership on human health and behavior. Of his research he writes, “The results of the present study appear to demonstrate beneficial changes in health and behavior in a majority of persons acquiring new pets.” Then again, Del could have told him that. After three years, she and Vanessa have found a peace living together: “She doesn’t like to be picked up; wants to be cuddled on her terms; but she’s my friend, my baby. My princess.” Her eyes shine with a light that matches the gold in Vanessa’s fur. “Living with pets has absolutely enhanced Edna’s and Del’s quality of life,” smiles Hellman, herself the

recipient of a pet’s loving care. And, she says, the other residents “light up when they see a four-legged, fuzzy creature.” Hellman’s empathy is real. “I have an orange cat,” she tells me. “I’ve always had orange cats, and I always will have orange cats.” Her face is soft: as Edna’s while cuddling Ginger; as Del’s when Vanessa rubs against her hand.

LOVED BY ALL Co-workers as well as residents share Hellman’s love for animals. Case manager, Sherry brings her yellow Labrador retriever Lad to work with her when she can, and a pug named Ginger (no relation to Edna’s poodle) accompanies Assistant Director of Nursing Sharon to work every day. All enjoy the company of birds like gems in flight in the facility’s four aviaries — maintained in part by residents.

“We want our residents to be able to continue their lifestyles as much as possible when they move into our community,” Hellman says. “We want our residents to be able to continue their lifestyles as much as possible when they move into our community,” Hellman says. “Pets are a part of that.” They are with millions of pets living in American homes, and an aging Baby Boomer population, more dogs and cats will enter the sweet life of retirement with their people every year. And the Boomers are loyal: “The first question I asked, when I found out that I was moving here,” says Edna of her transition to Sweet Life, “was whether I could bring Ginger with me. It just feels more like home with her here. You don’t feel alone.” Sweet Life Rosehill is owned by Brookdale Senior Living, and allows residents to bring pre-approved pets under 25 lbs. into care with them provided the pets are current on vaccinations and the resident is able to adequately care for the animal. This article was written by Suezanne M. Law. She is a Certified Humane Education Specialist and accredited dog trainer. Using an interspecies approach to family counseling, she specializes in training and behavior modification for dogs and the people who love them. She owns Sympawtico Dog Training, LLC. Visit her at www.sympawtico.com.

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5 Travel Tips for your Pet

by Pat Hennessy

AROUND TOWN Pet Identification. Your pet should always have a sturdy collar with address and telephone number information on the collar. You may also want to consider a microchip (implanted under their skin), as a form of permanent ID. It is also good to carry a current clear photograph of your pet that can be copied, to make it easier for others to recognize and return him if he gets lost. TIP 2 Animals Get Car Sick, too. Some people get car sick and animals can too. Check with your veterinarian or holistic practitioner about treatment options. Avoid food or feed lightly prior to travel. Make sure you have water available or take along ice cubes, which are easier on your pet than gulping down large amounts of water. If your pet isn't accustomed to car travel or to a carrier, break him in gradually by taking short trips and using lots of praise. TIP 3 Adjust Temperature Accordingly. Your dog or other pet can't tell you if he's feeling hot or cold, so be aware of the temperature. If the humans are wearing jackets, perhaps Fido would appreciate a blanket, too. In warm weather, open a window or raise the air conditioning to prevent overheating or dehydration. (Direct sun can be even harder on dark-colored dogs, so consider sunshades if your windows aren't tinted.) Bear in mind that TIP 1

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while there are vents for the heat or A/C in the front of the car, there may not be any in the back.

ROAD TRIPS TIP 4

Pack and Plan for Your Pet. Just like you,

pets like the comforts of home: their own bedding, toys, brush, even their own dishes. Bring them with you if possible. Pack a bowl for his water, treats, a first-aid kit, medications (both oral and topical), and a copy of his medical records. Most important, though, bring your pet's own food. Trust me; this is not the time to get experimental with your pet's digestive tract. (If you've ever changed your dog's food all of a sudden, you know what I mean.) Municipal water systems vary from place to place, so it is best to bring a gallon of water from home. An abrupt change could give your pet diarrhea. Start with the water from home, and “water your dog” along the route, topping off the gallon from a local water source at each stop. That way, the change is gradual. If you’re planning on staying at a hotel with your dog, confirm the details of your reservations in advance. Make sure you understand what their pet policies and services are; you don't want any surprises when you get there — like weight limits or quantity limits. And of course, don’t forget the pooper scoopers. TIP 5 Take frequent breaks. A dog's legs need to be stretched just like yours do — perhaps twice as much. Your pet also needs water, exercise and potty breaks at regular intervals. Having your dog lie beneath the café table while you eat lunch is not exercise, so be sure to take Fido once around the block before jumping back in the car. Taking time for your pet may also help you to take in some interesting sights along your trip. Pat Hennessy, is the founder of N2paws, LLC, an organization that provides companion animal attunement through behavior analysis, energy work, and Tellington TTouch. Pat is a certified TTouch practitioner and member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), and Animal Wellness Association (AWA). You may contact N2Paws via email pat@n2paws.com, phone 816-522-7005, or visit the website www.n2paws.com.

SIMPLE THINGS by Lisa Ploch Swope

Bolivar was adopted from Gladstone Animal Control in 2007.

n this tough economy, many of us are learning to make changes. Rather than mourn the luxuries we may have to forgo, I say we should look to our pets for a little lesson in enjoying the simple things. My cat Bolivar has shown me that shoestring is not just the name of my new my new budget, it is one of the greatest toys ever made. Dangle that string, and he will come running to play.

Pet’s Don’t Know the Difference Pet owners may want to spoil their companions with all sorts of expensive new toys. But your pet does not understand that you went to a trendy store and spent your hard-earned money on the newest toy for him. He is just as happy to play in the cardboard box in which the toy came. And while you were out shopping for that hot new toy, he was probably waiting for you to come home and lavish him with your attention. Those bellies don’t rub themselves, you know.

Find Toys Around the House Bolivar’s favorite toy for the past few weeks has been a plastic ring that originally bound some shipping materials my husband ordered. He grips a bit of it in his mouth and the rest of the band sticks out in front of him, tempting him to chase it. He runs around the kitchen with such enthusiasm, I can’t stop laughing. If I curl a wire bread tie into a spiral and drop it to the floor, Bolivar comes running. He bats it around the kitchen with such agility; he looks like a soccer pro. When I make the bed, he pounces and hides under the sheets. He never misses an opportunity to create some good, cheap fun. So maybe your financial situation has lead you to trade a Saturday night on the town in exchange for a simple meal at home. If you need proof that this frugal new lifestyle can be more fun than the old way, look at your pet, who is content to play at home with the simplest of things. He is probably overjoyed to have you home for some extra quality time, and he can’t wait to show you how to play hide-and-seek behind the shower curtain.

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J UNE 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

Feline Signs

Gemini (May 21 - June 21) Cat On A Hot Tin Roof

The Gemini Cat is a highly intellectual creature but lacks the ability to make much sense, twittering and squawking at owners most of the time. This feline is a lively and enthusiastic cat, but possesses something of a split personality, which only serves to further complicate an already complex character.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) The Earth Mother This Cat is totally unflappable...most of the time. This feline is impossible to shock and well able to hold his or her own in the face of danger...usually due to the fact that he or she is far too idle to get up and move out of the way. This catâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sraightforward approach to life will be easy to understand.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22) The Crazy Cat An adaptable and variable creature, the Cancer Cat is tenacious, unpredictable, true to his or her nocturnal nature and somewhat on the moody side. Physically, the Cancer Cat invariably has a small, pursed mouth...a sure indication of their Zodiac Sign. More often than not, They will also be unusually angular for a cat, possessing an amiable expression which conceals the inner turmoil.

MetroPet Magazine J UNE 2009

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22) The Top Cat Occasionally the Leo Cat will relax...chase their tail...bite their toes...but most of the time, this cat will remain composed, as befits a true monarch of the realm. Physically, the Leo Cat will have such a commanding presence and stately bearing that it will be hard to believe that this feline does not spend a great deal of time with a book on their head...along with a symmetrical body, well-proportioned limbs and the grace of a ballerina.

Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) The Kitten Cat Near-perfect domestic cat is governed by the most malleable of all Zodiac Signs, this will be the creature closest to the ideal feline pet. Thorough and conscientious in everything, the Virgo Cat is a joy to have around...except when they are being critical.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) The Copy-Cat From the very start, the cute little Libra kitten will be so unsure of what is expected, that he or she will model a lifestyle on that of the owner, copying mannerisms and patterns of behavior, which can be somewhat disarming.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) The Cat’s Pajamas He or she will single out a member of the family with whom to bond and the rest will be virtually ignored. This feline does become genuinely attached, but in a rather aloof sort of way...offering companionship in return for a high standard of living.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) The Stable Cat The Sagittarius Cat will spend countless happy hours playing “shipwreck” on the beams of the stable...revelling in the frantic behavior of the panicked animals below. The Sagittarius Cat likes affection, but hates to be smothered.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan 20) The Cat Burglar Personal interaction is important to the Capricorn Cat. This feline’s instinctive understanding of human frailty means that he or she will be more than generous in overlooking an owner’s shortcomings...perceiving them as trials

that this feline is obliged to bear in order to help him or her along the road to success.

Aquarius (Jan. 21 - Feb. 18) The Hip Cat Whether sitting in the rain or pouring cold water on an owner’s ideas, the Aquarius Cat will be an unconventional sort of soul, easily bored and constantly seeking change. Watery at times and elusive at others, this feline is an exceedingly kind and honest cat...when he or she happens to be in the vicinity. Indeed, the Aquarius Cat is like no other in the Zodiac.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20) The Ship’s Cat Often two-faced, the Pisces Cat will be adept at two-timing the most intelligent human. This cat is the “dupli-cat”...the feline who sees double and does everything twice in the event something may have been overlooked the first time.

Aries (Mar. 21 - Apr. 19) The Stray Cat It is not unusual to hear the Aries Cat hissing at any other cats who may have strayed into his or her territory and this feline is frequently covered with battle scars...perhaps even a piece or two missing from the ear. In the wild, the Aries Cat would either be the leader of the pride or second-in-command to a Leo Cat.

J UNE 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

Ask the Groomer The struggles of toenail trimming by Cheryl Wyrick

Why is it that dogs and cats need to have their toe nails trimmed on a regular basis?

trimmed regularly. I see a few dogs that have caught a toe nail on something Pet toe nails grow just like the nails on our fingers because of its length and toes. We trim ours on a regular basis to avoid and tore the whole nail off. This is extremely painful and needs problems. A few healthy, active dogs get enough medical treatment at the vet. Some dogs throw a fit when trimexercise to wear the nails down ming is done. Some sufficiently. Older or overweight are fine. Just like Take your pet’s favorite treat dogs seem to have more of a any other chore, problem. Most need to have toe with you and have the groomer, repetition makes it nails trimmed monthly to keep the routine so the more or vet give the pet it’s treat nails under control. If the nails frequent, the better. grow out of control, it can be immediately after the trim... If your dog hates it, painful to walk. I have try taking him to seen some nails grow the clinic or the completely around in a groomer for visits. Treats several times before and circle and back into the after your trip for the nail trim will help make pad creating a wound. it a positive experience, and he/or she will The dew claws, the nail not see it as stressful anymore. Take your that grows up higher on pet’s favorite treat with you and have the leg, does not get any wear groomer, or vet give the pet it’s treat immediwhen walking so it must be ately after the trim if it is successful, or at the beginning if the animal is still scared. Most Pet toe nails grow just like grooming salons have a “walk-in” option for toe nail trims. Check to see what your facility has to offer. When you have your the nails on our fingers and dog groomed the nails should be trimmed with the bath. You toes. We trim ours on a regular may ask what is included. I have had lots of questions about the basis to avoid problems. new motorized nail grinder that is on the market. I tried one and I didn’t see its value. The noise and vibration scared the pets and it only makes the nail smooth. It doesn’t actually cut the nails. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trimming toe nails should be a routine part of life for any pet.

MetroPet Magazine J UNE 2009

Cheryl Wyrick has been grooming in Waldo since 1989. She currently manages Pampered Paws Grooming, Inc. Wyrick can be reached at 816-3332522 or by email: Pamperedinkc @sbcglobal.net or at Pamperedpawsgroominginc.com

Ask the Vet Veterinary Dentistry by Dr. Paul Klausen, DDS, DVM

Q A

Why does my dog have bad breath?

Q A

How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?

Bad breath in dogs is usually caused by Periodontitis or gum disease. Broken teeth, lodged foreign bodies, odiferous diets, and sometimes oral growths may also cause bad breath. Growth of bacteria on the dog’s teeth is the source of the odor with periodontal disease. The bacteria will harden over time and require a professional cleaning to remove it all. This should be followed up by brushing the dog’s teeth.

It depends on your dog and their diet. Some breeds of dogs have a lot of periodontal problems, so the answer for them is daily. Small, and miniature breed dogs, along with Greyhounds fall into this category. Other dogs do not have very much bacterial growth on their teeth, so weekly brushing will probably do for them. Brushing needs to be individualized for your dog. Your veterinarian can help you show you how to brush your dogs teeth and determine if they need to be cleaned.

Q A

What can be done about my dog’s broken tooth?

Q A

My dog’s teeth are crooked. Can that be fixed?

There are few options for treating fractured teeth. Restorations may be placed in the broken tooth if the nerve in the tooth has not been exposed or damaged. Teeth with necrotic or exposed nerves may either be extracted or undergo endodontic therapy. Endodontic therapy is where the dead or dying nerve is removed and the root canal space is filled with a special material. A restoration may then be placed in the tooth and a metal crown may need to be made for it. Waiting to treat or ignoring damaged teeth may lead to infection, swelling and pain.

Orthodontic treatment may be effective for teeth that are mal-aligned. Sometimes the jaws are mismatched, and movement of the teeth is not enough to correct this. One common orthodontic problem occurs when the primary canines, or “puppy teeth” are retained too long, causing the permanent canines to erupt, or come in, too close together. The lower canines then strike the roof of the dog’s mouth instead of resting between the upper canine and lateral incisor. This may be corrected by an orthodontic appliance that is affixed to the teeth for 2-4 weeks.

Dr. Paul Klausen, DDS, DVM practices veterinary dentistry. You can reach Dr. Klausen at AERH, by calling 816554-4990 or by visiting www.aerh-kc.com.

Acupuncture for Animals? Alternative & Complimentary Treatments for Animals

western, so long as they prove to be true.” There seems to be incredible wisdom in that statement and it is one that helps guide the way I practice veterinary medicine. If a vaccine or antibiotic injection is appropriate, that’s great. If acupuncture or herbal medicine is appropriate,

If a vaccine or antibiotic injection is appropriate, that’s great. If acupuncture or herbal medicine is appropriate, that’s also great.

by Micheal Tarrant, DVM, CVA

can’t tell you how many times I hear the phrase, “Acupuncture for animals? I knew they had that for people but I didn’t know you could do that for animals!” And then we start to talk about other treatment options that are not considered mainstream such as herbal medicine, chiropractic treatments, homeopathy, and nutrition. Many of treatments these are not really ‘alternative,’ it’s just that they are not widely practiced amongst veterinarians in the United States. This is one of my favorite quotes in regards to medicine by Jen Hsou Lin, DVM, PhD. “It does not matter whether medicine be old or new, so long as it brings about a cure. It matters not whether theories be eastern or 30

MetroPet Magazine J UNE 2009

that’s also great. So long as it will not cause harm to my patients and could potentially help them…that’s the treatment plan that I prefer to choose. So let’s explore some of these a bit more.

NUTRITION FOR YOUR PETS Nutrition is somewhere in the gray zone of traditional medicine and alternative medicine. There has been a lot of research in the U.S. in the last 20-30 years regarding nutritional requirements for animals. This has lead to the prevention of a number of nutritional diseases such as heart disease in cats caused by taurine deficiency or

growth abnormalities caused by the improper calcium: phosphorus ratio. No doubt, these kinds of diets have helped countless numbers of animals, but many veterinarians have largely ignored or simply don’t know a great deal about nutrition because major companies have made it very easy to pick a diet that corresponds with a certain disease. A number of marketing strategies have also convinced the public that a certain brand of food is the best for their pet when the outside of the bag shows healthy ingredients, but in reality the food is filled with low grade by-products, preservatives, colors, fillers and allergens. It is certainly true that “you are what you eat,” and feeding animals the same low-grade diet day after day leads to deficiencies and an overall weakened immune system. This, in turn, leads to disease. By providing high quality nutrition including food, vitamins, minerals, and supplements many diseases can be successfully controlled or even reversed. Nutrition is largely overlooked in the U.S. as a component of overall health. We all hear about eating a balanced, healthy diet but very few people or animals actually follow this practice. Most animals are getting too many carbohydrates and fats combined with a lack of exercise. A prime example is the increasing number of obese pets and weight related health problems such as arthritis and diabetes. Pets are being overfed and undernourished.

ACUPUNTURE Ok, here’s the part about acupuncture. Acupuncture is the insertion of needles into specific points of the body to elicit physical or chemical changes. It can be used for a wide variety of issues such as pain, due to muscle and tendon injuries, or arthritis, and things like urinary incontinence, allergies, immune system disorders and intervertebral disk disease. Acupuncture can be used as the sole means of treatment or in conjunction with other types of therapy. Its effectiveness varies from patient to patient along with their response to the needles. Treatments usually start anywhere from once daily to once a week and then are tapered off as their response changes. Acute sprains or strains will often resolve in a few days to weeks. Chronic conditions such as arthritis or allergies will often require maintenance treatments that vary from once a month to every six months. I often find myself turning to acupuncture as the first choice of treatment over traditional western treatments for certain conditions. One example is for intervertebral disk disease or herniating disks in the back. Traditional treatment has been to use massive doses of steroids and rest in a cage for 2-6 weeks. I used to do this until I found that I could get the same response using antioxidants and acupuncture. The best part is avoiding the side effects of the steroids (mood changes, increased thirst and urination, and predisposition to diabetes with long term use).

CHIROPRACTIC THERAPY Chiropractic therapy is also used in veterinary medicine with more frequency than in the past. This involves the manipulation of the vertebrae and joints to relieve muscle tension and strain and to relieve pressure on nerves. It is mainly used for musculoskeletal pain in veterinary medicine and follows a schedule J UNE 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

M ETRO P ET R ESOURCE WHO? ANIMAL EMERGENCY & REFERRAL HOSPITAL WHERE? 3495 NE RALPH POWELL ROAD, LEE’S SUMMIT, MO • PHONE 816-554-4990 www.aerh-kc.com

HOW LONG IN BUSINESS? AERH opened for business on June 1, 1995. We started out as a very small operation. Since then, we have moved twice and are now located just off Woods Chapel Road in a state of the art facility.

WHY ARE YOU DIFFERENT?

AERH works closely with your regular veterinarian, utilizing our specialists for chronic or challenging cases. Patients needing intensive care after-hours are transferred to us on nights, weekends and holidays.

BENEFITS OF AERH

Our facility is fully staffed with knowledgeable and skilled professionals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week . There is an initial consultation fee, which includes the veterinarian’s examination of your animal. Then we provide you with a written estimate for any additional diagnostics, treatments and medications.

REASONS CUSTOMERS COME BACK!

AERH has been providing quality services for over ten years. We have grown to four referral doctors (Hunkeler, Groh, Klausen and Winters), two emergency doctors (Winters, and Croucher) and 14 or more technicians. We offer a specialized services including: Ophthamology, Dermatology, Dentistry, Diagnostics and other See our ad on pg. 12 special procedures.

similar to that of acupuncture with frequent visits at first and tapering off as indicated by the patient.

HERBAL MEDICINE Herbal medicine includes the use of both western herbs and Chinese herbs. Herbs can be used for any condition that could be treated by conventional western pharmaceuticals. In my experience however, there are some diseases/ailments that respond better to pharmaceuticals and some better to herbs. For acute conditions such as infections with fevers, broken bones, and emergencies I tend to reach for western pharmaceuticals because they are very powerful and will have an immediate impact on the patient’s condition by relieving pain and suffering and possibly saving their life. For more chronic conditions such as skin and ear infections, allergies, gastrointestinal issues and cancer I prefer to use herbal medicine. These are the types of conditions that have not developed overnight and are not going to be resolved overnight by giving a pill. Herbal medicine, in general, takes a bit longer to start working but can address the underlying cause of the issue instead of masking the symptoms. When the root cause of the problem is treated, the secondary symptoms will resolve it on their own. Herbal therapy is usually continued for weeks to months by adding it to their food and is changed according to the needs of the animal. Alternative treatments, I think, should be called by a more appropriate term such as “complimentary treatments”. They do not have to be exclusive of each other or alternative to other treatment options. They can and should be complimentary to each other by choosing what is best for ourselves and our pets. Integrating eastern and western medicine will become more common in the United States as our exposure and awareness of different treatment modalities increase. Mike Tarrant grew up in a small farming in Oklahoma where he gained invaluable experience working with all types of animals. He attended the University of Kansas and Oklahoma State University, where he graduated in 2003 as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). You can reach Dr. Michael Tarrant at Arbor Creek Animal Hospital, by calling 913-764-9000 or by visiting www.acanimalhospital.com.

MetroPet Magazine J UNE 2009

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Links to events at www.metropetmag.com

J UNE 2009 â&#x20AC;˘ MetroPetMag.com

MetroPet Magazine J UNE 2009