March 2013
20 T HE D OG PARK ARTICLES
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12
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Do You Know the Effects?
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An Ounce of Prevention
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Agility — Herding — Rally Obedience
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We Love Our Pets
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What Really is Animal Sheltering?
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Easter Morning Heavenly Manna
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The Dog Park
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Toxic to Your Cat?
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Celebrate the Green by Going Green!
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Why Does My Dog Do That?
30
Pawzlle
32
Chip’s New Adventures
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Pet Services Directory
METROPET RESOURCES
16 www.metropetmag.com
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Four Winds Apartments and Village at LionsGate Apartments
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Camp BowWow Lee’s Summit and Camp BowWow Olathe
We Love Our Pets Submit your favorite pet’s photo at www.metropetmag.com
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HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY! The green of spring and the green of St. Patrick’s Day have arrived. While I love the change of seasons, including winter: snow, cold weather and fires, I can’t wait for Spring’s first crocus. This issue brings some great articles. Starting with the article on page three: “Do You Know the Side Effects?” Learn more about how important it is to be aware of the side effects of medicine on our pets. Then, on page six learn about how to save money with “An Ounce of Prevention.” Enjoy the heart warming article on page 12 of how Duke found Mary Ragland and together they learned dog agility. Finally, did you know that common household products can be toxic to your cats? Take a moment and read the article on page 23. As always, we have Chip’s next adventure and the Pawzlle. This month both focus on shelters and rescue groups. If you are thinking of adding a pet to the family, check out the shelters. Start by looking on the Internet. Go to www.metropetmag.com to see a list of local shelters and rescue groups. Most groups show photos of adoptable pets at www.petfinder.com. As Spring approaches, we are ready to get out and about! Have you thought about going to a dog park? The educational article on page 20 gives lots of tips about finding a dog park, playing at a dog park and how to handle dog situations at a dog park. New Directory Listings — included in our directory listing on page 34 are two new companies. The first is Best Friends Pet, this awesome company, in Leawood and Peculiar, offers grooming, a licensed pet chiropractor and a professional pet photographer. The second is Veterinary Pharmacy Reference. It offers veterinarian pharmacology software with an Interaction Matrix, dosage calculator, client information sheets and more. We are still getting awesome pet photos. Check out the latest photos on page 15. Please send us your wonderful photos and we will share them with others.
Sincerely,
ON THE COVER Sergeant Amber Knickman, from Baltimore Maryland. I have been in the Army since 2007, my MOS is 92Y which is a supply sergeant. I have been stationed in South Korea, Fort Leavenworth, KS I was deployed out of Fort Leavenworth to Iraq in 2009 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. I am now stationed at Fort Myer in Arlington VA and assigned to “The Old Guard.” Brody is 7 months old and was born on July 3, 2013. He is a standard goldendoodle. I got him from a very military friendly breeder in Ohio. I got him because I wanted a companion to do activities with, such as running and hiking, (which he loves) who would love me unconditionally. He is always referred to by others as the happiest, sweetest dog that they have ever met. He loves to meet new people and dogs, and greet me at the door when I get home from work with a huge smile! Brody is currently in the final stage of his obedience training and progressing rapidly. We are hoping that once he is old enough, to get him certified as a therapy dog so that we can visit veterans hospitals and wounded warriors here in the DC/VA area since he loves being around people and soldiers.
Barbara Riedel, Publisher P.S. As always, thanks to our advertisers and readers! 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. © 2012 MetroPet Magazine. All rights reserved. Request reprint permissions at info@metropetmag.com. MetroPet Magazine is owned and published by ROI Marketing Services, all rights reserved.
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Barbara Riedel barbara@metropetmag.com
Editor/Production Manager Dan O’Leary editor@metropetmag.com
Magazine Layout ROI Marketing 816.942.1600 • roi@kc.rr.com 4
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March 2013
Do You Really Know the
Side Effects?
BY DIANE SULLIVAN y husband and I came home from a wonderful Easter day this past year, full of good food, egg hunts for the kids and visiting with family and friends. I had been anxious to get home and see my sweet, precious Abigail our two and a half year old miniature schnauzer. She was fine when we left for church, and again as we rushed home to get our food to take for lunch. It was close to six o’clock that evening when we got home, as I walked into the kitchen and discovered she had vomited up by her water dish and another place by the back door.
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She was her usual self full of mischief, guarding the backyard, ready to go bye bye, and go for walks.
EAGER TO SEE US! She was eager to see us as we went through our usual greetings. Prior to this Abby had been on a medication for some sort of what the veterinarian thought was a bacterial infection and had been on it for nine days. She was her usual self full of mischief, guarding the backyard, ready to go bye bye, and go for walks. Abby didn’t show me any suspicious signs that the medication was reacting against her but of course I didn’t have anything in hand to tell me either and the doctor didn’t say there was anything to watch for.
SUDDENLY A SEIZURE We sat down to rest from our full day’s activities and Abby found her spot on the sofa next to us. My husband kept saying she felt really hot but still we didn’t see anything that would make us think she was sick. She was setting on the couch right next to my husband when all of a sudden she reared up and then went stiff. I immediately told him she was having a seizure and we placed her on the floor to monitor her and for her own safety. We knew we had to get her to the emergency room and made what seemed to be the longest drive ever. She
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never gave up even on the drive because she was getting to go bye bye, but I could tell by her body she was having difficulty. As we stood her on the weight scale she tried to stand but her body would sway like a human would that was drunk. As we entered the exam room she still wanted to wonder and sniff everything but she really couldn’t stand up without her legs giving out on her. The doctor came in and began to examine her, you could tell he was concerned but was trying to contain his comments and facial impressions. As I told him what medication she was on he asked how long
she had been on it and I told him for nine days. He thought if she was going to have any reaction it would have been in the first 24-48 hours. He kept Abby to treat her for the fever and put her on seizure medication. Of course I couldn’t sleep that night so at 3:30 am I called to see how she was doing the tech said she was sleeping peacefully with no problems.
THE NIGHTMARE BEGINS Then my nightmare came at 4:15 am from the doctor himself, I knew when that phone rang that something wasn’t right and my heart sank. He began by telling me he was sorry to have to give me the news that Abby went into another seizure then cardiac arrest, they tried to revive her but couldn’t save her. I just couldn’t believe it shock was an understatement, what in the world was going on. I was just in too much shock to even think about my baby going through a necropsy, plus the ER Vet said there would be a slim chance of it showing the real cause. Abby had her physical in January and passed with flying colors. I tried to be the best parent, we were the best parents. A dog couldn’t be loved more than she was, but what in the world happened. I called our vet’s office later that horrific morning to discuss Abby with them, but I still wasn’t satisfied. As I began to research the medication Abby was on, I found several websites stating that side effects could show up as late as seven days.
He began by telling me he was sorry to have to give me the news that Abby went into another seizure then cardiac arrest, they tried to revive her but couldn’t save her. LOOKING FOR ANSWERS I still needed some answers and called the ER Vet to ask if he thought it was the medication, he thought it was. My thought was why don’t veterinarian offices provide us with an explanation of the medications they prescribe for our pets, humans get this from the pharmacy so we know exactly what we are taking and can watch for side effects as well. I also discovered that fifty percent of the medications our pets receive are for humans. If only I had been given something printed I could have watched for during that last week of her life, I could have possibly prevented such a senseless death and 6
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heartache. I called the office manager of our veterinarian’s office and asked why they don’t offer this and it should be our right to decide if we want our pets to have medications even though we would know the side effects. Not every pet will have the side effects just like not every human experience’s any or all the side effects of our medications. While doing my research I recognized a side effect Abby had been doing, but it was subtle, not anything I would have thought she was in danger about, but if I had something in my hand to watch for I could have made that judgment call.
NEW SOFTWARE PROGRAM As more time passed I spoke with the office manager again, she informed me that their office has now incorporated veterinarian pharmacy software that is compatible to their current software. The software also offered several features one being a printout of
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side effects of any medication prescribed for all pets that walk through their doors. This software needs to be in the hands of every veterinarian’s office in the United States to help prevent any more senseless deaths from happening. As a pet owner you can do your part by mentioning this information to your veterinarian and requesting a printout of the side effects associated with your pet’s medications. My vet’s office was extremely happy they incorporated this software because of all its capabilities. Diane Sullivan lost her precious Abigail in March, 2012. Since then, she has stared “Abby’s Cause.” Her desire is to help other pet parents understand the effects of pet medicines and to encourage veterinary offices to educate pet parents about the possible side affects. For more information about a software product available for veterinary offices, visit www.vpronline.com. This software enables veterinary offices with information on side effects and interactions for various drugs.
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An Ounce of
PREVENTION BY PATTY HOMER
am sure you have noticed that veterinary care is expensive and getting more expensive every year. According to vetinfo.com, the cost of veterinary care for the first year of a puppy or kitten’s life is $350 to $800 minimum; every year after that you can expect to pay $300 to $625. These figures include healthy pet examinations, annual vaccines and monthly flea and heartworm prevention, but the figures don’t include any unexpected illnesses or injuries that may arise. Preventing disease is the best investment you can make in your pet’s health. Treating some illnesses and injuries after they have happened can be so cost prohibitive that with a catastrophic event, many people only have the financial option of euthanasia. So, let’s talk about what you can prevent.
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INJURIES Outdoor cats and free roaming dogs are obviously at a much greater risk of being hit by a car, attacked by other animals or getting fighting injuries. Keeping your pets confined by a leash or fence reduces these risks tremendously. An indoor cat’s average life span is 12-18 years, outdoor cats life span is reduced to 4-5 years.
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FIV attacks a cat’s immune system much like AIDS in humans but it is species specific meaning it affects cats only; it is not contagious to dogs or humans. ILLNESSES/DISEASES Feline Aids (FIV) — FIV attacks a cat’s immune system much like AIDS in humans but it is species specific meaning it affects cats only; it is not contagious to dogs or humans. There is no cure, but once FIV is contracted a cat can live up to 10 years. FIV is transmitted from cat to cat by blood and saliva as well as from a mother to kitten through her milk. Prevention: vaccination (if your cat’s lifestyle demands it), keep indoors, limit access to unknown or unvaccinated cats. Feline Leukemia (FeLV) — In the U.S. it is estimated that 2-3% of all cats are infected with FeLV. FeLV is caused by a virus that is a form of cancer of the blood cells called lymphocytes, or leukemia. All cats are at risk of infection but ill, young or senior cats have a higher risk of infection. FeLV is March 2013
spread through saliva, nasal secretions, urine, feces and milk. Prevention: vaccination (if your cat’s lifestyle demands it), keep indoors, limit access to unknown or unvaccinated cats. Feline Distemper (Panleukopenia) — Feline Distemper is caused by the feline Parvo virus and is not related to canine Distemper. This virus attacks the lining of the intestines causing diarrhea, dehydration and anemia. Without extensive medical treatment this virus has an 85% mortality rate. The mortality rate decreases with treatment but is often still fatal. The virus is spread through all body secretions including feces, vomit, urine, saliva and mucous. Prevention: vaccination, keep indoors, limit access to unknown or unvaccinated cats. Heartworm Disease — This affects dogs and
cats alike. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, so the risk of infection is higher in places that have a high mosquito population like the Midwest and coastal areas but it is prevalent in all 50 states. Heartworm lavae is injected into the bloodstream by a mosquito and grow from larvae to adult worms as they migrate to the heart and lungs resulting in death. There is treatment for dogs, but no treatment available for cats. Prevention — monthly dewormers such as HeartGard, Sentinel, Interceptor
Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, so the risk of infection is higher in places that have a high mosquito population like the Midwest...
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or Revolution. These are prescription only and can not be given to a heartworm positive pet, so before starting on prevention, a heartworm test must be performed by your veterinarian. Medication must be given monthly, year round and your dog must be tested annually.
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Intestinal parasites — Roundworms, Hookworms, Whipworms, Tapeworms, Coccidia and Giardia are all intestinal parasites that pose a threat to our pets and sometimes us. Many of these parasites are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted to humans. All dogs and cats should be checked at least annually for intestinal parasites. Treating them on your own by giving over the counter products is generally a waste of time and money due to their ineffectiveness - prescription strength dewormers are recommended. When you have children, ill or senior people in your home, prevention is extremely important. Intestinal parasites are transmitted by contact with an infected pet or contact with infected ground. Prevention: monthly dewormers listed above and annual stool checks and preventative deworming. Parvo Virus — Parvo is very deadly and one of the most common infectious diseases that affects dogs. It is transmitted through feces but the virus can stay alive for months on clothes, concrete and kennel floors and for years in the soil. Your dog can also come into contact with the Parvo from wild animals tracking the virus into your yard or rain water run-
ning through your yard spreading the disease. Parvo is most prevalent in very young or ill dogs; black and tan breeds such as Rottweilers and Dobermans as well as Labradors are more susceptible than other breeds. Prevention: A series of vaccinations starting at the age of 6-8 weeks old, no access to unknown or unvaccinated dogs and areas that those dogs are prone to be in such as dog parks, neighborhood outings and pet store floors. Enrolling a puppy in an indoor group obedience class is fine after the second round of vaccines. Kennel Cough (KC) — This is an upper respiratory infection that is very contagious via the air. There are several different upper respiratory infections that are generally lumped under the title Kennel Cough. The symptoms include a dry hacking cough, nasal and sometimes eye dis-
Kennel Cough is an upper respiratory infection that is very contagious via the air. charge. Most dogs will come into contact with and possibly show signs of KC at some point in their lives. The infections are generally mild and treated easily by a veterinarian, but like most other diseases, the very young, ill and seniors are more likely to get a serious infection. Prevention: There are vaccines for Bordetella and Para-influenza, but they are not 100% effective and most often will just lessen the severity of the infection. It is best to keep the more susceptible dogs away from unvaccinated, unknown dogs and dogs that are
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showing signs of coughing, sneezing or eye discharge. Canine Influenza — This is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by a virus. There is a mild form and a severe form. The mild form symptoms are a moist cough that persists for up to a month, although some dogs will have a dry cough similar to KC. Dogs with a severe form will develop a high fever and have clinical signs of pneumonia. The first outbreak of Canine Influenza was in 2004 and to date has not been deemed zoonotic. Prevention: There is a vaccine that does not keep a dog from contracting the disease, but does lessen the severity of the infection. The vaccine is recommended for dogs that come into contact with many other dogs such as boarding, day care or grooming facilities.
TWO WAYS TO CUT DOWN ON VETERINARY EXPENSES • Early Detection! Performing Home Health Exams — help you catch illnesses, injuries and unpreventable maladies, keeping the cost of treatment down. • Prevention — It is much more cost effective to prevent rather than to treat!
INSURANCE PLANS There are several insurance plans available for pets. I compared 3 different plans for a 5 year old dog with a $50-$100 deductible and found that you can expect to pay anywhere from $27 to $95 per month, per dog ($324 - $1140 annually). If you decide to buy insurance for your pet, read over the contract very carefully to see what is and what is not covered! Your veterinarian should help you decide what vaccine protocol is right for your pet. Take some extra time with your vet at your next visit to discuss what vaccines are needed for your pet based on age, breed, health, geographic area, travel and your pet’s normal activities. 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.
M ETRO P ET R ESOURCE WHO? FOUR WINDS APARTMENT VILLAGE AT LIONSGATE APARTMENTS WHERE? FOUR WINDS APARTMENTS • 8000 PERRY ST, OVERLAND PARK, KS • 913-871-4316 • www.fourwindsapartments.com VILLAGE AT LIONSGATE APARTMENTS • 14631 BROADMOOR ST, OVERLAND PARK, KS • 913-533-7546 • www.villageatlionsgate.com
WHY CHOOSE YOUR APARTMENTS? Four Winds Four Winds is a friendly, vibrant community nestled in the heart of Overland Park in Johnson County. The quality construction is apparent in each spacious home and reflected through masterful attention to detail. Enjoy gourmet kitchens, cozy wood burning fireplaces, private balconies, washer and dryer connections and spacious walk-in closets. Choose from large one, two, and three bedroom floor plans. Resort-style amenities include two sparkling pools, a stateof-the-art fitness center, a convenient resident business center with high-speed Internet, a rejuvenating Jacuzzi, and much more. Elaborate amenities a grill by a resort-style pool, a
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state-of-the-art fitness center, a basketball court, soothing spa and hot tub and tennis courts.
THE VILLAGE
AT
LIONSGATE
The Village at LionsGate offers everything you need to make the most of your free time. Located in south Overland Park, KS. Each apartment home has unique details with floor plan options to fit your lifestyle. Choose from one, two or three bright bedroom floor plans, with oversized closets, open plans, eat-in kitchens and built-in appliances in the kitchen. The Village at LionsGate has addressed your need for exclusivity, spaciousness and a carefree lifestyle. Nestled on its own private lake in one of Kansas City’s most desirable areas, this upscale community of spacious residences surrounds you in luxury. Here you can enjoy the no-compromise lifestyle that Overland Park is famous for, with unparalleled access to fine dining, upscale shopping, entertainment and the best that Kansas City has to offer. The complex also offers a state-of-the-art fitness center or enjoy one of the many spectacular views of the lake on the half-mile nature trail. Challenge your friends to a game of billiards. Save a trip to the office and utilize our full service business center.
See our ad on the Back Cover MetroPet Magazine
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AGILITY HERDING RALLY OBEDIENCE WHAT IS RALLY OBEDIENCE? BY TIM MCHENRY
“Let me win but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” ore than 40 years ago, Eunice Kennedy Shriver crafted these poignant words and introduced American to the Special Olympics. Today, its relevance remains far reaching — even into the world of canine agility. No one embraces this philosophy more than Mary Ragland and Duke. “Some people select a dog to do agility, herding, or Rally Obedience,” Mary explained. “Duke found me and he opened a whole new world for us. I really enjoy the people I’m meeting.”
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DUKE FOUND MARY Mary, 72 years young, is an Associate Professor of English and Academic Enrichment at the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg. She has shared her home with dogs, not to mention cats, horses and birds throughout her life. There were English Cocker Spaniels, a very special Boxer, a Bichon Frise, and an Irish Setter just to name a few. “I got my first dog when I was 9,” Mary recalls. “I was at the doctor’s office getting a shot and Dad promised me a black Cocker Spaniel puppy if I didn’t cry.” 12 MetroPet Magazine
Dog and Handler teams navigate a course with numbered signs indicating different exercises to perform such as Sit-Down-Sit, Straight Figure 8, Send Over Jump, Recall Over Jump. Teams navigate the course at a brisk, continuous performance without direction from the judge. Handlers are encouraged to talk to their dogs during the performance. All dogs, purebred, mixed breeds and dogs with disabilities are encouraged to participate. Rally trials can be hosted by any organization. Trials typically include Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 courses. A team earns a Rally title after successfully completing three course runs with qualifying scores. Titles can be earned at each Level and teams may also earn Championship titles, National Ranking Awards and a special Award of Excellence.
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Duke ambled into Mary’s life one August day in 2007. She was working in the garden on her 70 acre spread when he appeared on her driveway. Ominous in both size and appearWHAT IS HERDING? ance, Duke looked to be no more than a year A herding dog, also known old with a dark brindle coat and roughly the as a stock dog or working size of a Shetland pony. He was emaciated and dog, is a type of pastoral dog covered with ticks and fleas. that either has been trained in “I took him to my vet right away and the herding or belongs to breeds technician said Duke was the ugliest dog she developed for herding. Their had ever seen,” said Mary with a chuckle. ability to be trained to act on “There were no tags on his collar or a the sound of a whistle or word microchip but he was relatively healthy. The of command is renowned problem was that he was big, black and throughout the world. untrained. I was not optimistic that he would ever get adopted.” Duke needed training. He once pulled Mary down on a gravel road, scraping the side of her face. Duke jumped on people and saw Mary’s cats as a potential entrée. She called a pet retailer in Independence and registered for a beginning obedience class. Initially, the trainer had to meet Mary in the parking lot to help her get Duke into the store. Within a year, Duke had passed an advanced obedience class and earned his Canine Good Citizenship certification. “He was going to have to be trained or spend the rest of his life in a kennel and I just couldn’t live with that,” Mary recalled. After the class, I asked my trainer ‘what can I do now?’ She recommended that I talk with a trainer in Blue Springs about this thing called agility. I had never heard of it.”
We Our Pets Submit your favorite pet’s photo at www.metropetmag.com
STARTED AGILITY CLASSES Mary and Duke enrolled in an agility class. She bought some equipment so they could practice in the garage. In December of 2011, Mary accompanied a friend to an agility trial in Lawrence, KS sanctioned by the North American Dog Agility Council (NADAC). The event was hosted by a local agility club, “U2 Kan Do Agility.” She watched as some of the dogs ran off course never thinking that her schooled obedience dog was capable of such outrageous behavior. She signed up for every event in the next competition. Duke not only ran off course, he left the building and even made it into the kitchen during one jailbreak. Mary was disheartened but determined. Stubbornness was a trait she shared with her dog.
Duke not only ran off course, he left the building and even made it into the kitchen during one jailbreak. Mary was disheartened but determined. Stubbornness was a trait she shared with her dog. www.metropetmag.com
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“I knew he wouldn’t make it through the entire course,” Mary said. “I just wanted to get through three or four obstacles. I explained what I was doing was doing to the judges and they were fine with it.”
WHAT IS AGILITY? Dog agility is a dog sport in which a handler directs a dog through an obstacle course in a race for both time and accuracy. Dogs run off-leash with no food or toys as incentives, and the handler can touch neither dog nor obstacles. Consequently the handler’s controls are limited to voice, movement, and various body signals, requiring exceptional training of the animal and coordination of the handler.
WINNING ROUNDS! In March of 2012, Mary threw caution to the wind and attempted to take Duke through an entire course. Not only did he finish, but he earned a third place ribbon. Normally contestants pick up their ribbons after the results are posted. When the judge learned of Duke’s accomplishment, he walked across the arena and personally handed Mary the ribbon as the gallery of handlers cheered. “I decided to give it two years,” Mary said. “The NADAC people and Martha with U2 Kan Do Agility were very encouraging. They were just wonderful. I was happy as long as I could see progress.” That was only the beginning. In June of 2012, Duke earned two ribbons, including a qualifying score in a “jumpers” event in Blue Springs. Later that summer, Duke and Mary pocketed five ribbons and his first “jumpers” title at the same location.
RALLY CLASSES The October trial was again held at the Lawrence fairgrounds inside a horse arena with enough intoxicating smells to lure even the elite dogs away from the course for a quick sniff. Duke ran off course in nearly every event and Mary considered quitting the sport all together. Instead, she went back to trying only a few obstacles at a time. On the last run of the day, Duke finished the course and earned a ribbon. Mary enrolled Duke in more courses in Lee’s Summit and as well as in Parkville. Earlier in the year, she began taking Rally courses to help strengthen Duke’s obedience skills. While Duke enjoyed agility, he excelled at Rally, earning qualifying ribbons in his first Rally competition. He took home a novice title in just his second competition. “Agility and Rally are team sports,” Mary said. “The beauty of it is that you and your dog work as one. The important thing is to have fun. You can’t let the ribbons and prizes get in the way. I guess I like challenges and I love Duke.” Recently, Duke earned a qualifying run in a Rally Advanced competition where handlers are required to manage their dogs off leash. Not bad for a dog that found his way into the kitchen during his first agility trial. The Duke of Warrensburg had finally come home! Timothy McHenry and his three-legged dog Dixie are regular participants in agility training. McHenry is a pet trainer with PetSmart and the author of a new book A Leg to Stand On — A Shared Journey of Healing! The book was released on November 2012 and is available to purchase at www.iuniverse.com. Join these fearless dogs and their handlers in future dog agility events.
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Our Pet s
Submit your favorite pet’s photo at www.metropetmag.com
DAISY My dog Daisy has to be one of the cutest, most loveable and energetic dog in the world. When I heard this site come up on the radio, I thought that I had to put Daisy on it. These pics will hopefully make you fall in as much love with her that I am :) P.S. I have more photos, but can sadly only link one :( Submitted by Dominique
ROXANNE Roxanne is a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier that we located from a breeder in New York. We lost the battle with our previous dog Roxy, who was diagnosed with auto immune hemolytic anemia. We fought this horrible disease for 8 months. We were at a total loss when it was Roxy’s time to leave this world and so we chose to find a new family member to help bring some joy back into our home. In Roxy’s honor we named our new baby Roxanne. We did not know until we picked Roxanne up at the airport that she had a black marking on her side in the shape of a heart. With this incredible surprise, we felt that Roxy was sending her love and showing us that our new baby would bring us happiness. Roxy knew how much she was loved and that this heart was a sign that our love for her will continue on forever! Submitted by Jane S.
SABRE (L) AND GUNNER (R) Both adopted from Wayside Waifs. Gunner is about 4 years old and a therapy dog with Pets For Life, Pet Partners and Children’s Mercy Hospital Pet Pals. Sabre is about 2 1/2 years old and became a therapy dog with Pets for Life last November. They are also READ dogs at The Gillis School. We love visiting St. Joseph Hospital, Crittenton Children’s Center, Ozanam, and two Ronald McDonald houses on a regular basis. Submitted by Robbi G. www.metropetmag.com
JASPER Our recently re-homed dog, Jasper enjoying a run on a sunny Sunday afternoon. Submitted by John A.
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Let’s take a look at what animal sheltering really encompasses. There is a great deal of information floating around for the public to view. e see so many ads on television, the radio and on our computers inviting folks to visit shelters and adopt animals. Let’s take a look at what animal sheltering really encompasses. There is a great deal of information floating around for the public to view. It can often be confusing to unsuspecting potential adopters.
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A KILL SHELTER
WHAT REALLY IS ANIMAL SHELTERING? BY HEDDIE LEDGER 16 MetroPet Magazine
Let’s first take a look at what is called the Municipal Shelter, often referred to as a “kill shelter.” Unfortunately these city run entities often fall to the bottom of the barrel of the budget process. They are often categorized and operated out of the Police Department and we all know that human safety needs come before the needs of animals. In some cities they fall under the Health and Safety Department. Therefore, the vast majority of city run “municipal” shelters often do not have the resources to keep high numbers of animals in a facility. Many do not even have a facility, but may have a pick-up truck with a couple of kennels in the bed of the truck for a designated official to drive around to pick up stray, abandoned, or injured animals. These facilities operate on limited budget, space and resources. They must uphold the local ordinances regarding animals and their interactions with humans and are known as “open” admission shelters are they do not have a choice as to the animals they hold. They often are required to hold dogs involved with court cases or bite incidences and have a limitation on how long they can hold a dog. They often euthanize animals due to lack of space or holding time. They do not have large resources of fostering or volunteer programs. Some shelters have a friends of the shelter, usually a non-profit support group that will provide much needed fundraising, volunteer and other services to augment city staff in their quest to save the lives of animals in their care. March 2013
RESCUE GROUPS Rescues often are a 501c3 non-profit organization, but not always. They generally do not have a bricks and mortar building, but operate as a network of citizens providing foster care for animals that are homeless. They often work closely with municipal shelters to help reduce the numbers of animals in the shelter and hold adoption events on a regular basis to showcase the animals since they live in private homes where they are not easily viewed. They often join together to hold community events and walk-a-thons that are mutually beneficial in fundraising. There are many types of rescues, including those that provide only disaster or crisis services, court case services, rehabilitation for special needs animals that may be blind, deaf, or other physical disabilities. Rescues often have strict adoption policies that include references, background checks, veterinary checks, and home visits. They generally will keep an animal its entire life until the proper placement is found. Many are breed specific.
LOCAL KANSAS CITY ORGANIZATIONS Beaks and Wings Excelsior Animal Shelter Excelsior Friends of Animals Furry Kids Refuge Great Plains SPCA HELP Humane Society Humane Society of Greater Kansas City Karma Rescue Lawrence Humane Society Leavenworth Humane Society Liberty Animal Shelter Olathe Animal Control Parkville Animal Shelter Spay/Neuter Kansas City Unleashed Pet Rescue Wayside Waifs For a complete list of local shelters and rescue groups visit www.metropetmag.com
NON-PROFIT SHELTERS Shelters are usually a non-profit registered as a 501c3 with the Federal government. hey are considered “limited” admissions and are most often privatized organizations that are supported solely by donors and fundraising efforts. They generally have a building that houses the animals, staff either paid or volunteer, and the philosophy that they will keep an animal as long as it takes to find a proper home placement. Limited admissions allows the shelter the opportunity to interview the potential animal “owner” and either accept or refuse admission. These facilities most often subscribe to the “no-kill” philosophy as does the rescue groups, however, this type of organization has the ability to keep an animal as long as it takes to rehabilitate and place properly. They often have a good support system of volunteers, foster homes and do not put a time limit on an animal and its stay at the shelter or within in the system. They also have the ability to provide support to both rescues and municipal shelters since they are not governed by local laws and ordinances such as time limits or space requirements. There are several National organizations that offer support to each of these types of local organizations, but generally www.metropetmag.com
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these National organizations do not offer housing and day to day care of animals. They provide programming and auxiliary support, membership and often offer grants and other financial support to local organizations. It is recommended to support your local shelters financially to help your community achieve a No More Homeless Pet status. Please check out your local shelter or rescue organization for your next animal companion. They often have not only cats and dogs, but rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, and a host of other animals. Many also have a store where you can purchase items to support your animal companion. The funds raised from sales of items generally go back directly to the care of the shelter animals. The opportunities and resources are available to find your lost pet or your next animal companion. Adopting from your local animal shelter saves lives. Please keep this in mind the next time you want to add an animal as a member of your family. Heddie Leger is a Certified Humane Education Specialist (CHES). Her lifelong passion for animal welfare has taken her down the path of rescue, rehabilitation, training and rehoming of many animals through the Missouri Puppies for Parole Program. She is a charter member of the Heartland Positive Dog Training Alliance and KC Representative for Animals and Society Institute through the KC-CAN Link Coalition. She can be reached at pawzone@yahoo.com.
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DID YOU KNOW? • Often animals are seen as disposable, an unfortunate situation that leaves them homeless. • Animals often end up in sheltering due to no fault of their own. • Over 25% of animals in shelters are purebred. • Many animals end up in shelters due to divorce, death, military leave, health issues of the owner, aging situation of a person not being able to care for the pet any longer, apartments changing pet regulations such as size/breed, and foreclosure on homes. • Animals in shelters are not rejects and do not always have problems. Many are household pets that are relinquished due to no fault of them own. • While some animals end up in shelters due to hoarding, neglect, or abuse situation, even these animals can be rehabilitated and end up making very nice companions. • Micro chipping a pet is a valuable tool to finding a lost pet. Only about 30% of lost dogs can be returned to their owners and less than 3-5% of cats. If all pets were micro chipped more would be returned to their owners. • Most shelters will allow you to return an animal if it is not a good fit for your lifestyle or family. They want the animals back rather than have them rehomed to another person to ensure their safety. • Many shelters have services available such as spay/neuter, training, behavior support, etc. • Animals adopted from shelters make just as good a companion as those purchased from a breeder or other source. Purchasing animals from pet stores supports the puppy mill industry which is known to be irresponsible in many cases in the care of the animals utilized in their breeding stock.
March 2013
EASTER MORNING HEAVENLY MANNA
Whether your dog is a Saint Bernard or a Holy Terrier, he’ll be praying for these on Easter Morn
INGREDIENTS 6 slices white bread 8 ounces low-fat cream cheese, cubed 4 eggs 1 1/4 cups skim milk 1/3 cup honey
Directions: • Preheat oven to 375°. • Tear bread slices into cubes and toss lightly with cream cheese cubes. • Place in an 8 x 8-inch greased baking pan and set aside. • In a mixing bowl, beat eggs together and add milk and honey. Stir well. • Pour over bread mixture and bake for 30 minutes. Cool, then cut into squares. • Store leftovers well wrapped in the refrigerator.
Bakes up to 12 squares of saintly goodness.
Recipe credit:
Three Dog Bakery Cookbook by Dan Dye & Mark Beckloff Over 50 wholesome, healthy, simple-to-cook recipes for your pooch, from Hearty Hound Loaf and Banana Mutt Cookies to Hungry Mongrel Turkey Burgers and Fiesta Bones. www.metropetmag.com
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The
Dog Park
trip to the local dog park can be an experience worth repeating for the social, well-mannered dog. However, for a fearful or anxious dog it might be overwhelming. Whichever type of dog you have, the following tips are to provide helpful information to make the right choices for your best friend.
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IS YOUR DOG A GOOD DOG PARK CANDIDATE? • Do not take a puppy to the park until he/she is at least 4 months old and has completed a series of vaccinations. • The dog must be social, comfortable and enjoy the company of all different types and sizes of other dogs. The dog park is not a place to work on socialization problems, fear or aggression issues. • The dog must be human friendly, without prejudice and should demonstrate respectful behavior towards humans. The dog must not jump up on, body slam, nip or mouth-even in play, pee on or jump uninvited into laps. • Barking needs to be maintained at a sensible level. Barking is going to occur during play, however, pushy barking from a fun monitor or barking with intent and when escalating must be stopped immediately. • The dog needs to be able to respond to basic obedience commands, on and off leash, and even while playing, distracted or aroused. If you are unable to control your dog in a busy environment, full of distractions, enroll your dog in an obedience class.
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BY MARY SELLARO Practice until your dog listens in any setting, understands come means now and enough is enough! • A dog should be in good health to go to the dog park. Any dog who is coughing, has diarrhea or loose stool, vomiting, has a greenish discharge from the eye, open sores, sutures or has fleas or internal parasites needs to stay home. Arthritis or any painful condition can cause a dog to become defensive or stressed at the fear of being hurt and can lead to aggression.
CHOOSING THE “RIGHT” DOG PARK • Location — a bark park close to home is always a bonus, but is it the best environment for your dog? If you have the luxury of several parks in the area, check each one out thoroughly and at different times of the day to get a true feel. • Are there rules posted and does everyone seem to be following them? Rules to look for: cleaning up after your dog and where to dispose, a maximum number of dogs per handler-the maximum should be 3, behavior and/or aggressive dog policy-behavior of dog(s) must be controllable at all times and threatening dogs removed, no females in heat, no dogs under 4 months of age, tags showing proof of current vacciMarch 2013
nations and licensing required, identification tags required, no food-dog or human, minimum age for handlers to be left in control of dog-16 years should be minimum, do not leave dogs unattended. • Is the park clean and well maintained? There should be plenty of trash receptacles, grounds free of dog waste and trash, no open holes from dogs digging-this is a tripping hazard, gates and fencing in good repair. • How many dogs are in the park at one time? Is the park over-crowded? Is there enough room for dogs to comfortably move around, avoid trouble-dog fights can start if dogs are too packed together-and keep small dogs from getting trampled? • Are owners paying attention to their dogs? It is hard to control a dog if people are on their cell phones, trying to control too many dogs or small children and dogs, engaged in conversation with friends, reading a book or any other activity which takes focus away from their dogs for more than a few seconds at a time.
• Treats and toys should be left at home. A dog may guard and become protective of these items which may lead to a fight. • Children should be left at home as well. The dog park is meant to be a dog’s playground and some dogs are not comfortable around the high-pitched noises children make or the constant activity.
ENTERING THE DOG PARK • Remove any metal training collars or head harnesses before going in. There is risk of damage to your dog and others during play. • Enter the park calmly and with your dog on the leash.
GETTING READY / WHAT TO BRING / WHAT NOT TO BRING • Prior to going to the park, lightly exercise your dog to get rid of excess energy to enter the park in a calmer state of mind so he/she will be a better and more appropriate playmate. • Come prepared with poop bags, a towel, water, bowl and a leash. www.metropetmag.com
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A FEW RULES FOR THE HUMANS • Obey all park rules; there are reasons they are posted. Be especially conscientious about cleaning up and disposing of your dog’s waste. • Watch the level and style of play going on in the dog park before entering, is your dog an appropriate playmate for these dogs? • If someone complains about your dog’s behavior, be polite and consider their opinion. Apologize. Be willing to leave the park if your dog is playing too rough. If you truly feel your dog has not been inappropriate, get the opinion of someone you trust, be ready to hear the truth. • Don’t make excuses for your dog. Be realistic about your dog’s behavior and intervene when necessary. Do not allow your dog to be a pest or to bother another dog(s). Every dog has a tolerance limit and a common response to “leave me alone” is a sharp nip. Call your dog away. Refocus his attention before the problem escalates. • If your dog is repeatedly having problems, take a break from the park for a few weeks and start back slowly, with small groups of dogs who have the same play style as your dog. • If another dog is playing too rough or is annoying your dog, be polite; first assume the owner is not aware of the problem or is not knowledgeable about dog behavior. Respectfully ask the other owner to call their dog away as the play is turning too rough and there is potential for a serious problem which you are sure they want to avoid. If the owner ignores you or refuses to acknowledge their dog has problem, call your dog and go to another area of the park. This will only serve as an immediate solution, be prepared to leave the park if the problem continues. • It is your responsibility to report any potentially dangerous situations, for the continued safety and well-being of conscientious park visitors.
• Be careful to shut each gate before opening another, this will protect against any escapes. • Remove the dog’s leash as quickly as possible once inside, as the lead can cause the dog to feel helpless and unable to get away. It is common for an owner to pull back and restrain the dog in a busy or stressful environment. This action can cause the dog to become protective of their owner which can lead to a fight. • Owners should call their dogs away from the gate as a new dog enters. The gate area is a “hot zone” as dogs will guard this boundary line. The chance for conflict is reduced once the “new” dog is in the territory and away from the boundary line.
BEHAVIOR INSIDE THE PARK • Understand your dog’s style of play. Some dogs like to play in a rowdy way that includes a lot of noise, growling and intermittent barking, body contact including the use of the mouth and wrestling. Other dogs prefer a more refined style-chasing, play bows and a low amount of body contact. Both style of play can result in the dogs becoming over stimulated which can lead to aggression. It is important to be able to identify the warning signs of any style of play escalating into something more serious. • Watch the responses of the other dog or dogs your dog is playing with. If the other dog is clearly uncomfortable, is trying to get away or is becoming defensive, call your dog off immediately and then remove from the park for a break. Watch your dog closely and intervene at the first sign he/she is ignoring the signals of the other dog. Mary Sellaro has been training dogs since 1990. She has taught group and private lessons from puppy through advanced. Mary has also worked with dog owners on behavioral issues, including aggression. She developed and implemented a training class program for Retired Greyhounds as Pets. Mary has been the temperament test evacuator for the Children’s Mercy Hospital’s Pet Pal Program since 1997. Mary is now the Director of Training for Pooches Paradise Daycare and Resort in the Waldo area of Kansas City. Mary is a certified American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen evacuator.
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March 2013
Common Household Items
Toxic to Your Cat? BY CHERYL WATERMAN, CVPM
PLANTS CAN BE POISONOUS
s you might suspect, the large majority of calls to the Pet Poison Helpline concern dogs. Almost 9% of the calls were concerning potentially poisoned cats. The top culprits are things you may not realize can harm your cat(s).
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HUMAN DRUGS — 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 overthe-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, Of the thousands of calls that came into Pet Poison Helpline from cat owners and veterinarians treating cats in 2012, here are the top five most common toxins that caused emergencies: • Topical spot-on insecticides • Household cleaners • Antidepressants • Poisonous plants • Human and veterinary NSAIDS
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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 the taste of certain antidepressants (e.g. Effexor) which may contain an attractive smell or flavor in the coating. 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 very quickly. With the antidepressants, severe agitation, aggression, tremors, tail twitching and seizures will usually be noticeable. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is critical that you get your cat to your veterinarian immediately. Any delay may cause death. The prognosis is good if the cat is treated BEFORE any of these symptoms develop.
The second most common feline toxin, representing almost 14% of calls to the poison helpline, are poisonous plants. The worst offenders are True lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis spp.), including Tiger lilies, Day lilies, Asiatic, Easter and Japanese Show lilies. These are among the most deadly and will cause kidney failure in cats. This can be dangerous because these flowers are fragrant, inexpensive and longlasting, many florists include them in flower arrangements. Even a small ingestion of two or three petals or leaves (even the pollen) can result in severe poisoning to cats. You may notice vomiting, lethargy, increased thirst and urination. Eventually, decreased thirst and urination, difficulty breathing, and death may occur before end-stage kidney failure. These symptoms must be treated immediately and aggressively. Be sure to waste no time getting your cat to your veterinarian should you discover he/she has ingested any of these. Usually, if cats are given IV fluids within 18 hours of ingestion the outcome can 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. MetroPet Magazine
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The second most common feline toxin, representing almost 14 percent of calls to the poison helpline, are poisonous plants. ANOTHER KILLER — INSECTICIDES Nine percent of feline related calls are 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 usu-
M ETRO P ET R ESOURCE WHO? CAMP BOW WOW, LEE’S SUMMIT & CAMP BOW WOW, OLATHE WHERE? 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/
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 24 MetroPet Magazine
• 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 inside back cover March 2013
ally 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 are severe drooling, tremors and life-threatening seizures. The outcome may be good, IF the cats are treated immediately and aggressively.
READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY 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% 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, lime-removal 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. 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. Always store these products out of reach.
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The remainder of the feline-related calls 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 was the Hospital Administrator at the Cat Clinic of Johnson County and is a long-time cat lover. She is a member of the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association and the American Animal Hospital Association. If you have any questions regarding kittens or cats, please call the Cat Clinic of Johnson County, 913541-0478. We are always happy to help.
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Celebrate the Green by Going Green with Your Pets
BY PAT HENNESSY t’s time to put on that green sweater or shamrock pin and become Irish for a day in celebration of the patron saint who brought Christianity to Ireland (even though most people think it’s about leprechauns with pots of gold or sending the snakes out to sea). While we are wearing our green with pride we can actually become green and take pride in caring for our planet. And our companion animals can come along for the ride.
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FRIENDLY PRODUCTS FOR THE EARTH AND YOUR PETS We know using environmentally friendly products is better for the Earth, but it is also better for us and our furry and feathered friends as well. You can start your green journey by taking a look inside your home for healthy improvements. Take a good look at the cleaning products you use. Are the ingredients safe for the environment and are they safe for you and your pets? Many products have harsh chemicals that produce strong fumes, are hard on our skin, and not as effective as natural products at reducing bacteria and deodorizing. You may like your carpet or tile cleaners, but are the ingredients safe? Remember that your pets are on the floor and they are absorbing, or even licking, those chemicals. Other products that you want to look at for pet friendly (and environmentally friendly) ingredients are pet shampoos and flea repellants. There 26 MetroPet Magazine
While we are wearing our green with pride we can actually become green and take pride in caring for our planet. are safe and natural products available that are effective and reduce your pet’s exposure to harmful chemicals that can cause skin irritation or contribute to other health issues.
TAKE A FRESH BREATH Another aspect of your in-home environment is the air you breathe. Air pollution is not just and outdoor issue. There are many harmful pollutants in your home (bacteria, mold, fungus,
radon, etc.), not to mention typical household pollutants (dust, pet dander, smoke, etc.). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has cited that indoor air can be up to 100 times more polluted than outdoor air and it is 1000 times more likely to reach your lungs than outdoor pollution. One way to combat those chemicals is to use a good air purifier, one that actually eliminates the pollutants. Remember that your pet’s lungs are much smaller and dealing with the same amount of pollution, so you would not only be helping yourself you would be helping your pets tremendously. An air purifier can be especially helpful if you have cats or birds, due to the dander and dust that accumulates and the associated allergies that follow. After thoroughly going through your home to make environmental improvements, you need to turn your attention outside the home.
ARE YOUR LAWN PRODUCTS SAFE? You must be very cautious when selecting products for your lawn. Many of the products to kill weeds can be harmful to your pets. Ignore the picture on the front of the bag with the children and a dog playing on a beautiful lawn and read the ingredients or the fine print instead. Some bags will say pet-friendly, but in smaller print it says to keep pets off of areas where March 2013
the product is used, for several hours up to a couple of days. You may think your pets will be safe by keeping them off the lawn for a bit but remember dogs like to eat grass, especially the early spring sprouts, and grass that has been treated can be harmful. You may think it is good for the lawn to leave pet waste as fertilizer, but it is actually better for the environment and your companion animals if you remove it. Feces contain bacteria that create a breeding ground for fleas, so getting rid of it reduces at least one source of flea habitat. The bacteria in feces travel through the rain run-off process and end up in natural (unfiltered) water sources, such as streams and lakes, where it decomposes using up oxygen. During the warmer months the low oxygen levels, combined with the ammonia output, can kill fish. We can’t really pick up after wildlife, but we can clean up after our animal companions.
HELP YOUR LOCAL SHELTERS Following St. Patrick’s Day, April brings us Earth Day (a day to celebrate cleaning up the planet). If you want to celebrate Earth Day on behalf of companion animals, one way is to take your newspapers and cardboard flats to your local animal shelter. They use the newspapers to line cages and crates and they use the cardboard flats for litter trays. If you have unused or slightly used bowls, beds, collars, leashes or toys, you can donate them as well. As an extra gesture, you could save up your aluminum cans for a month, cash them in and donate the money to your local shelter when you take the newspapers. You’re not only recycling, but helping homeless animals until they find a new family.
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STILL FEELING “GREEN”? If you are still feeling “green?” Do some planting to give back to the Earth. A vegetable garden is very rewarding and it provides healthy options for you and your pets (but be careful which vegetables your pets consume). If you have room, plant a tree. Your dog will enjoy the tree. And, if it’s close to the house it could be a lovely shade tree, if it’s close to the street it could be an information gathering spot (like people standing around a water cooler). For your dog, sniffing a tree is like you reading the newspaper; they gather information about every animal that came by and left its mark (and it will prompt your dog to leave his mark for the next guy to read). While you are celebrating the day of the Irish, wearing your green, eating or drinking green, remember to “be” green the rest of the year. When you think of all the ways that our Earth benefits us: the water, the minerals, the air that we breath, and the beauty to take that breath away — it is a bountiful gift. It is a small effort on our part to give back to our Mother Earth. 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 TTouch Practitioner Level 2, 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.
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Why Does My Dog Do That? BY MIKE DEATHE get calls all the time about barking, chewing, peeing and pooping and a whole lot of other behaviors that are driving dog owner’s nuts. The problem is these are normal natural everyday dog behaviors. It is only when they are living with humans that these behaviors become “problem behaviors” In this article I am going to suggest a different way to look at the dog/owner relationship that just might help you get back on track…
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TO MUCH FREEDOM — TOO FAST The plain simply truth is if dogs are given too much freedom to fast they make decisions based off being dogs not the fact that they are living with people. I truly believe that dog training in general is all about setting rules and routines in the home for your dog and limited freedom creates harmony for the both of you. If I have a list of 10 non-negotiable rules (check out the end of the article for mine) and use them consistently every day I not only train my dog without having to carve out specific time for training I start to teach Fido just exactly what I want from him. The fact is if done right the dog will always be thinking “What is it my owner wants of me” rather than choosing his own behaviors.
NON-NEGOTIABLE RULES I know it sounds simple but if you reward the list of non-negotiable rules consistently those behaviors become more common, and as a result of those rules the nasty “problem behaviors” will decrease… The fact is dogs do great with rules and routines and love to live life know what is expected of them. It is only 28 MetroPet Magazine
The plain simply truth is if dogs are given too much freedom too fast they make decisions based on being dogs not the fact that they are living with people. March 2013
when left to their own devices that these issues crop up… So set some rules, start rewarding and before you know it you will be living with a dog more interested in doing what you want and less likely to be doing something you don’t! Good Luck and as always remember to Keep it Simple Stupid!!!! Mike Deathe is a stay-at-home dad who found his passion as a dog trainer in 2008. He is the author of Keep It Simple Stupid (K.I.S.S.) Pet Blog, and has written several books on dogs and dog training. As an avid pet lover, he regularly sees dogs and cats that never find a home, so in 2009, he and his wife Kate founded Muttz “R” Us, a t-shirt and pet product company with the motto of “Saving Pets...One T-Shirt at a Time.” In 2010, KEEP IT SIMPLE STUPID (KISS) DOG TRAINING was born. Since then Deathe has been teaching dogs and owners at Broadmore Kennels, located in Shawnee, KS. For more information about KISS or Muttz “R” Us visit us on Facebook, twitter or follow the blog at http://muttzmembers.blogspot.com. We can’t wait to help you speak dog as a second language.
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NON-NEGOTIABLE RULES 1. 2. 3. 4.
Sit at every door. Sit before every meal. Sit before leash is put on. Ask permission before getting on furniture or beds. This means a sit, then being invited up (you make the final choice) 5. Walks only continue if there is no pulling. If Fido pulls — walk stops until dog calms down and sits; then we will try again. 6. Go to crate or place on command using “go to bed,” “kennel up” or “park it.” 7. Crazy behavior equals no attention. If the dog gives any unwanted behavior — I ignore for 2 minutes 8. Dog must have a reliable “leave it” command. Dog should know that leave it means move back and wait for further instructions. 9. Dog must have reliable “recall” or consistently “come” when called. This should work in the house, outside, at the park and yes, even the dog park. 10. Dog must stay behind you on stairs, with the “wait” command. This should be used at doors as well. Dog knows to stay behind you until invited to move forward. “Excuse me” or “Back up” is the other side of this coin, where the dog understands to get out of the way for you to move through.
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Chip’s Corner
PAWZZLE
BY PAWLEAN JOURNE
For tips on the answers to this pawzzle, read the story about Chips Adventure on page 32.
30 MetroPet Magazine
March 2013
Across:
Down:
3.
Since municipal facilities do not have many resources the numbers of animals they house can be _____________.
1.
Time limit a limited admission shelter will keep an animal is __________________.
4.
5.
6.
9.
Some cities only have a __________ truck with a kennel in the back for this service. Limited admission shelters are most often ___________________.
10. Another word for a city run shelter 14. A non-profit 501c3 that consists of a network of fosters that keep animals in their home and does not have a bricks and mortar building is called a ___________________. 17. A rescue can help _____________ the numbers of animals housed at a local shelter. 19. Shelters may house animals involved in ______________ cases. 20. If they run out of space or time for an animal a city shelter may be required to ______________ an animal. 21. City shelters are often run by the _______________ department.
2.
7. 8. 11. 12. 13. 15.
16. 18. 22.
Many municipalities do not have a housing _____________ for lost or abandoned animals. City run shelters must abide by local __________________. Limited admissions shelters do not euthanize for ____________. Shelters often put a ___________ hold on an animal if it has injured someone. An item that can help find a lost dog is a ___________________. Most shelters operate on a very ____________ budget. Some cities place shelters in the jurisdiction of __________ and safety. Shelters run by a city often are at the bottom of the _________. An adoption event can help ____________ animals housed in a foster or shelter situation. Limited admissions shelters are supported mostly by ___________. Over 25% of animals in a shelter can be ________________. The main care component for a rescue is the ___________ network.
Jan/Feb Pawzzle Answers
23. City shelters are often referred to as _____________ admissions. 24. Rescues often conduct __________ visits before allowing an animal to be adopted out. 25. City shelters have a choice as to what animals they can house and the length of time they can hold them. True or False? Clues for this pawzzle can be found in Episode 2 on pg 32.
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MetroPet Magazine
31
Chip’s
Next
Adventure
EPISODE 2 - 2013 THE SHELTER He could hear his mother’s voice whispering in his ear. He did not doubt that her words were true. “Don’t be discouraged. It’s often the last key in the bunch that opens the lock. When the world shouts, “Give up.” Hope whispers, “Try it one more time.” It was as if she were right next to him. The past year had been such a whirlwind of change and opportunity. MawMaw had always said the world will give you exactly what you expect. She said what goes around comes around and that showing kindness was one of the most important things to never forget. Chip learned that to be true through meeting Penelope, Allen, their parents and friends. He dedicated his life to being kind to everyone and kindness had always come back to him. However, Chip was about to embark on a path where kindness was not always the rule. “Oh my, I wonder if my MawMaw had been here,” Chip thought to himself. He stood before a large cement block building with graffiti all over it. The smell was something he had never encountered. It burned his nose and made him feel sick to his stomach. Not only that the screams he heard were nothing he had ever heard before. It made him want to run away and run to them to help all at the same time. He was so confused and conflicted. Should he go in and look for his MawMaw, should he turn away and run as far away from this scary place as possible? He just did not know. He decided to run and get as far away as possible. He ran as fast as his little legs would carry him until he came upon a park with big trees, swings, people flying kites, children playing and riding bikes. It made him think of 32 MetroPet Magazine
RECAP FROM EPISODE 1 - 2013 “I really did not know where to start, but one thing I do remember is that one day before the storm, I noticed a flag flying on a pole. The flag had a white background with a crimson St. Andrew’s cross, crossing diagonally from corner to corner. I heard someone say onetime that the official gemstone was a Star Blue Quartz, but I don’t know what that is. My old owner used to go hunting for turkey and said that the Eastern Wild Turkey was a sought after prize to hunt, but I did not like guns so never went with her. I never understood what this meant, but learned before the storm that the Official State Mascot & Butterfly is the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. It makes me feel good that some of these memories are coming back. Maybe they will help me find where I came from. I don’t remember it ever being cold, but then I was a very young pup.” Remember Chip has dedicated himself to finding his mother and siblings if possible. Do you know what state he has visited first? If not, please look over the clues.
March 2013
Penelope and Allen and how kind they had been to him. He thought that these children would treat him with kindness also, but he was in for quite a shock. “Why are they running and away and screaming. Bark, bark, stop, wait, come play with me…..can you help me find my MawMaw? Bark, bark, whine, whine, cry……” He ran after them thinking they would play with him Quote of the Month and help him. Chip sat down bewildered. “Kindness is the language which the The children had all deaf can hear and the blind can see.” scattered and run Mark Twain away, screaming and looking for their parents or a safe place to hide. At first he thought they were playing hide and seek, but they were not smiling and they did not look or act like they wanted to play. Chip was totally perplexed. It was getting dark, he sat down under a bench and decided to rest a bit when a big pick-up truck came circling around. It had a kennel in the back and big letters that said, ANIMAL CARE and CONTROL with pictures of animals on the sides. A big burly man with a hat got out and started walking towards him…..Chip thought to himself, “Should I run away or stay safely under the bench. Maybe he would not see me……he does not look like a very kind person…..” Look for what happens to Chip in the next issue of MetroPet Magazine. Heddie Leger is a Certified Humane Education Specialist (CHES). Her lifelong passion for animal welfare has taken her down the path of rescue, rehabilitation, training and rehoming of many animals through the Missouri Puppies for Parole Program. She is a charter member of the Heartland Positive Dog Training Alliance and KC Representative for Animals and Society Institute through the KC-CAN Link Coalition. She can be reached at pawzone@yahoo.com.
DISCUSSION STORY TIPS 1) Did anyone show Chip Kindness in this month’s story? 2) How do you think Chip felt when the children ran away screaming? 3) What could the children have done differently? 4) What would you have done? 5) Do you have someone who has shown you kindness? What did that person say or do to show you a kindness?
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A TRUE STORY During my second year of nursing school our professor gave us a quiz. I breezed through the questions until I read the last one: “What is the first name of the woman who cleans the school?” Surely this was a joke. I had seen the cleaning woman several times, but how would I know her name? I handed in my paper, leaving the last question blank. Before the class ended, one student asked if the last question would count toward our grade. “Absolutely,” the professor said. “In your careers, you will meet many people. All are significant. They deserve your attention and care, even if all you do is smile and say hello.” I’ve never forgotten that lesson. I also learned her name was Dorothy. Joann C. Jones
COMPASSIONATE ACT An act that shows consideration and caring!
HUMANE EDUCATION POINT Kindness can be shown in the simplest of ways. Stopping to take time to help a friend in need. Smiling, sharing an item with a friend or sibling. Helping an elderly person with their groceries. Volunteering for a local shelter or any other organization that helps people in need. All of these opportunities are ways of showing kindness. Can you think of any others?
ACTIVITY What is the name of the custodian in your building? Each and every day we walk pass nameless faces, never showing them even a smile or greeting. There are people in your life that bring a wealth of support and knowledge that are waiting for a simple kindness.
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33
Pet Services Directory Attorney at Law
KELLI COOPER ATTORNEY AT LAW
201 East Loula • Olathe, KS 913-254-7600 www.kellicooperlaw.com Kelli assists clients with family law, criminal defense and animal law. She is a passionate pet advocate and skilled trial attorney.
New Listings in Blue
Grooming Best Friends Pet 13008 State Line Road Leawood, KS • 913.498.1397 Peculiar, MO • 816.984.5481
www.bestfriendspet.us Best Friends Pet is a full service salon including caring and gentle stylists, a licensed pet chiropractor & a professional pet photographer. Call us today!
Daycare & Boarding Camp Bow Wow, Lee’s Summit 1010 SE Hamblen Road Lee’s Summit, MO 816-246-7833
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Pet Food, Supplies, Grooming Treats Unleashed 4209 West 119th St. Leawood, KS 913-451-2000
www.treats-unleashed.com Treats Unleashed is a gourmet pet specialty store with an in-store bakery. It also offers a full line of pet supplies & food, a self-serve bath area & grooming services.
Pet Food Distribution Camp Bow Wow, Olathe 1150 W. 151st Street Olathe, KS 913-322-2267
www.campbowwow.com /us/ks/olathe/ Rest assured knowing your camper is well taken care of at all times whether you are gone for one day, overnight or for an extended period. Dogs World of Fun 220 W 31st St Kansas City, MO 816-931-5822
www.dogsworldoffun.com/ Dog’s World of Fun staff have a passion for working with animals. It’s a special place where pets enjoy grooming, daycare & boarding! Pooches in Paradise 7200 Wyandotte Kansas City, MO 816-361-3388
www.poochesparadise.com Pooches Paradise was created with your dogs needs in mind. We are dedicated to offering the finest in boarding, daycare, obedience training and spa treatments. New location — one block off Wornall, on 72nd Street. 34 www.metropetmag.com
American Midwest Distributors 820 Atlantic Street North Kansas City, MO • 816-842-1905
www.americanmidwestkc.com A local distributor which supplies local stores with Earthborn and ProPac pet food, and various other products.
Pet Memorial Services Rolling Acres Memorial Gardens 12200 NW Crooked Road Kansas City, MO 816-891-8888
www.visitrollingacres.com Our mission is to serve those who think of their pet as one of the family by providing compassionate, dignified, & ethical after-life care for pets.
Veterinarians Arbor Creek Animal Hospital 15971 S. Bradley Rd Olathe, KS • 913-764-9000
www.acanimalhospital.com We believe that every pet has a different set of healthcare needs. Utilizing a blend of traditional medicine and holistic veterinary gives everyone options! Aid Animal Hospital 8343 Wornall Rd Kansas City, MO 816-363-4922
www.aidanimalhospital.com For 37 years, Aid Animal Hospital has provided quality veterinary medical & surgical services to Waldo and entire Kansas City area. We pride ourselves on quality customer service. Cat Clinic of Johnson County 9426 Pflumm Road Lenexa, KS 913-541-0478
www.catclinicofjc.com A feline exclusive clinic! Your cat is an important part of your family and you want the best medical care available. Our team is ready to provide cutting edge care. Quivira Crossing Veterinary Clinic 11770 W. 135th St. Overland Park, KS 913-647-4141
quiviracrossingvetclinic.com Quivira Crossing Veterinary Clinic is a full service companion animal hospital. It is our commitment to provide quality veterinary care throughout the life of your pet.
Veterinary Software Veterinary Pharmacy Reference 1-866-639-3866
www.vpronline.com Interactive, electronic VETERINARY pharmacology software has Interaction Matrix, dosage calculator, client info sheets, etc. Semi-annual medicine database (over 2,488 brand and 864 generic meds) updates.
Pet Friendly Car Dealership Lee’s Summit Subaru 2101 NE. Independence Ave Lee’s Summit, MO 816-251-8600
www.leessummitsubaru.com This pet friendly dealership offers a wide selection of new and used Subaru’s at low prices. Check out our service department.
SHOWCASE YOUR COMPANY OR PRODUCT IN THE
METROPET DIRECTORY.
FOR DETAILS CALL 913-548-1433 March 2013
March 1 to April 1, 2013
Let your love grow.
2014 Forester 2.5i
Pricing starts at $22,820 Model EFA-01
A Pet Friendly Dealership