Metro Pet Magazine April Issue

Free to Readers

APRIL ‘09

DOES YOUR DOG COWER DURING STORMS? 10 BUYING A PET FRIENDLY VEHICLE 18 ASK THE VET 31

APRIL 2009

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Feature Articles

In Every Issue

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A Tribute to Daisy

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Do April Showers Make Your Dog Cower?

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Here are some tips to calm your pet during storms.

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Walk this Way Springtime pulls you outside — be a good canine citizen.

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22 26

MetroPet Resource

Cat Horoscopes How well do you know your cat?

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Ask the Groomer Understanding your pet and how to prepare for a vist to the groomer.

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Ask the Vet Options for allergies and arthritis.

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Ask the Trainer Improve your relationships with your pet.

Grain Free Natural Nutrition Learn how the food you feed your pet affects them.

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Adopt... Don’t Shop!

Be a champion and adopt a pet from a shelter!

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

Is Your Dog Your Co-Pilot Statistics show 47% of dog owners think of their dog when buying a vehicle.

Dog Horoscopes Do you really know your dog?

5th Annual KC Pet Expo Visit these advertiser’s at booths at the KC Pet Expo on April 18 & 19 at the American Royal.

Welcome Pet Lovers Springtime is here! See you at the Pet Expo.

This bunny was an inspiration to many students.

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Upcoming Events

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Ad Index

Lee’s Summit Subaru A PRIL 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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Publisher’s Message

Happy Spring!

April will be a busy month for MetroPet! We will be exhibiting at the 2009 Pet Expo, along with many of our advertisers.

Additional details can be found on page 13 or on the web at kcpetexpo.com . In addition, there are several other events — check out the event listing on page 34.

SPRINGTIME — AN ACTIVE TIME FOR ALL! Springtime is a very active season. Not only do we get back outside and enjoy the fresh air and events around town, but we can face weather changes. While we can watch the weather forecasts, our pets only have their senses to rely upon. In many cases, the weather can be frightening to our furry companions. Check out the ideas and tips in the articles on pages 10 and 32.

LOOKING FOR A RESOURCE? Need a day care provider? Going out of town and need a place to board your pet or want to hire a pet sitter? Need a trainer, pet hospital or a veterinarian? What about a carpet cleaner, a pooper scooper or even a new vehicle? Check out the advertisers in this issue of MetroPet magazine. Our goal is to provide you with trusted resources.

These advertisers offer great products and services and have hundreds of satisfied customers. When you call them, tell them you saw their ad in MetroPet magazine.

This tells them their ad is working.

WHAT IS NEXT? During the next few months you will continue to hear MetroPet on the radio (Mix 93.3, 94.1 KFKF, Star 102 and Q104). These ads will announce upcoming events and pet care tips. In addition, you will see us at both pet and non-pet events. Check out event listings at metropetmag.com.

Barbara Riedel, Publisher

P.S. This magazine is FREE to you — because of our advertisers support. Please tell them you saw their ad in MetroPet. See you at the Pet Expo!

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 J.C. Burcham, DVM Laura Duclos, Ph.D Jennifer Fisher Pat Hennessy Suezanne Law Pat Riha Dani Rouse Micheal Tarrant, DVM, CVA Cheryl Wyrick

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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MetroPet Magazine A PRIL 2009

MetroPet Magazine is owned and published by ROI Marketing Services, all rights reserved.

A Tribute to Daisy An Inspiration to Many Students

tearfully asked me to put Daisy to sleep. “She’s scared, Dr. Burcham. She’s never frightened of anything. All the noises and movements my students make — it never scares her.” I learned that Daisy intuitively knew what the students needed. If she sat in a student’s lap, and the child moved suddenly, she wouldn’t startle — she would snuggle closer. One autistic child who had trouble communicating learned that if he made a special kind of sound, Daisy would come running to him. This allowed the teacher to work with him in other ways to produce consistent sounds to convey meaning.

She loved being cuddled and syringe fed, and she even tried valiantly to groom herself.

A BUNNY WITH PURPOSE

by J. C. Burcham, DVM

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hen the 3 year-old pearly gray rabbit arrived Monday morning, I knew I had to get her back to her classroom as soon as possible. Her owner, Miko, was a teacher for children with severe physical disabilities and behavior challenges, and Daisy was the classroom pet. Her job — one she was very good at, I would come to find out — was to help calm and engage challenging students.

EARLY SIGNS OF TROUBLE But Daisy was in trouble. She was lying on her side, and any attempt to make herself right-side-up resulted in flailing and struggling until she gave up. She was suffering from otitis interna, a severe ear infection that caused her to lose her balance and rendered her completely helpless. Treatment of otitis interna consists of antibiotics, supportive care (such as syringe feeding three times a day), and time.

HOPING FOR THE BEST I felt optimistic early on. Other than her severe head tilt and vertigo, Daisy seemed relatively alert and content. She loved being cuddled and syringe fed, and she even tried valiantly to groom herself.

As the week wore on, we could see she wasn’t getting better. In fact, she was getting worse. Her owner came to visit her faithfully every day. After three days of intensive care in our hospital, the owner held the trembling bunny in her arms and 6

MetroPet Magazine A PRIL 2009

I couldn’t give up on Daisy, not yet. I couldn’t give up on the bunny that clearly had a purpose, a job that wasn’t finished yet. “Let me try one more thing,” I pleaded with her owner. “It’s a last-ditch effort, but we have nothing to lose.” I wanted to try prednisone, known for its potent anti-inflammatory effects in the dog and cat world, but often regarded as dangerous and questionable in rabbit medicine. If it was going to be of any benefit, we should be able to tell within the next 24 hours.

AN OVERWHELMING DESIRE The next day, Thursday, was my day off, so I had the hospital call me with an update.

“She’s not eating as well today,” I was told. I feared that it may be time to euthanize her. I stopped by the hospital to assess her, and in my overwhelming desire to see any sign of hope, I determined that she needed more fluids, and that perhaps increasing her fluid intake would brighten her attitude. We would persevere another day.

NOT READY TO GIVE UP Friday arrived, and she was no better. But we hadn’t exhausted all our options. Perhaps surgery — a myringotomy or total ear canal ablation might give her a chance. Too many people needed Daisy, and I still wasn’t ready to give up on her. “I can’t put her through that,” replied her owner.

By that afternoon, I knew she was right. It was time.

I gave Daisy a sedative, a strong pain medication, so her last half-hour would be a comfortable one. Her owner held her, wrapped in a blanket, as we sat together on the couch, tears in our eyes as we waited for the sedative to relax her.

A STORY OF INSPIRATION “Do you have time for a story?” she asked. “I want to tell you about one of my students. Daisy has had a special impact on her.” The student’s name was Allie. She was born a normal, healthy girl, but was struck with a devastating brain disease in early childhood that left her completely immobile, bound to a wheelchair. When Daisy first met her, the girl couldn’t even lift her head up. “One day, I noticed Allie raise her head in Daisy’s direction and tracked Daisy with her eyes.

So I picked Daisy up and set her on her lap.”

Sensing the girl’s needs, Daisy settled easily into her lap, and continued to visit with her in this way every day. Several months later, as Daisy was brought towards her, Allie lifted her head up and smiled. It was her first smile since the onset of her devastating disease. Soon, she was lifting her head and smiling at her dad when he came to pick her up from school. Her dad had been like her hero before her illness — she would light up as soon as she saw him. But since she had gotten sick, she was unable to acknowledge him until she met Daisy.

ONE-OF-A-KIND BUNNY And there were others who had been impacted by Daisy in an immeasurable way. As I gave Daisy the final injection, tears blurred my vision as I cried for all the people who will never get to meet this one-ofa-kind animal who knew her place in life and provided comfort and therapy for those who needed it most.

She still had work to do.

Dr. J.C. Burcham received her B.S. from the University of Minnesota and her DVM from Iowa State University. Dr. Burcham loves to be involved in the community and she actively supports local animal shelters.

Note: The names have been changed to protect the identity of the parties named in this article.

A PRIL 2009 MetroPetMag.com

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Canine Signs

Aries (Mar. 21 - Apr. 19) Leader of the Pack Most canines who fall under the jurisdiction of Aries are completely intolerant of other dogs, constantly getting into scraps and trying to dominate each and every other pet (and person) within the household. The type of Aries Dog that appears to thrive best under the influence of this constellation are Gun Dogs, Whippets, Lurchers and those of the hunting variety.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21) The Yapper It takes the strength of personality found in a Leo native to help the Gemini Dog become more decisive, and a natural sympathy between the two usually ensures compatibility.

Aquarius owners, being broad-minded enough to allow things to follow their natural course, will also find the Gemini Dog to be a suitable pet.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22) The Home-Lover About once a month, the pull of the Moon will fill the Cancer Dog with a feeling of restlessness, urging him or her to spend the night in the garden, where he or she will howl until daybreak.

However, that having been said, the Cancer Dog basically makes for a delightful and lovely pet, being loyal and faithful no matter how he or she might be treated by an owner.

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MetroPet Magazine A PRIL 2009

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22) The Boss-Dog Fiercely loyal, this canine would rather die while protecting an owner than allow that owner to come to any harm. The Leo Dog makes for an exceptional guard dog but has one strange eccentricity...he or she is often deathly afraid of cats.

Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) The Helper Generally, sheep dogs and working dogs governed by Virgo thrive very nicely, working from dusk until dawn and content in the productive nature of his or her employment. Since Virgo traditionally rules small animals, however, even toy dogs such as chihuahuas tend to flourish under this sign. All Virgo Dogs are loyal and expect the same steadfastness from any owner. It should be noted, however, that this dog does not take kindly to small children.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) The Shop-Steward This canine is remarkably persuasive...some might say even manipulative. They can also be ridiculously stubborn...for example, if the Libra Dog does not want to go for “walkies,” then he or she will refuse to budge. Since the Libra Dog models their life on that of the owner, if things go wrong then the owner only has themselves to blame.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) The Paragon Thus, an owner should be able to keep on top of things and, by so doing, will discover that the Scorpio Dog is basically an affectionate canine...beneath their prickly exterior. This dog has a tendency to overweight in middle age, so any owner would be well-advised to take great care over the diet while this canine is still a puppy.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) The Problem Dog The Sagittarius Dog will either take to an owner or not, based purely and solely on that owner’s merits as a person. If this canine does not find an owner to suit their particular taste, then that owner will be treated in the same manner as any other casual acquaintance...with polite aloofness.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 20) The Social Climber Ideally, this canine would prefer to be in a favored position enjoyed by such dogs as the Queen of England’s Royal Corgis...in other words, right

at the top. When found in an average sort of household, the Capricorn Dog will begin to work on betterment of the current situation and, without the owner even realizing, this canine will gently nudge their human along (for example, they will make the house appear so small that a larger one is sought).

Aquarius (Jan. 21 - Feb. 18) The Friend Natives of both Gemini and Libra will greatly intrigue the Aquarius Dog. The airy mental attitude inherent in these Zodiac Signs toward life makes a perfect foil for the Aquarius Dog, serving to calm this canine to some extent and making them stop to think occasionally before leaping to conclusions.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20) The Interpreter Generally, the life of a Pisces Dog will be spent by putting his or her paw into it, while the other half will be concerned with trying to mend the situation. Forceful and pushy one minute, this dog is gentle, retiring and loving the next.

Taurus (Apr. 20 - May 20) The Strong Silent Type The owner must be prepared for the Taurus Dog to sit in front of the refrigerator and mournfully stare. Second only to this canine’s love of food is love of music. The Taurus Dog will happily sit for hours listening to the classic composers, such as Beethoven, and may even howl along to the orchestration.

A PRIL 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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April Showers Make Your Dog Cower?

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tion during early development that creates insecurity. It could be due to having had a bad experience during a storm, for example a dog that had to survive on his own in the elements. It could be a learned reinforced response due to getting “extra” attention, and especially seen in dogs that are highly attached to their people. Regardless of the reason, there are tools and techniques to give your dog a new experience and alter the behavior.

PLAY A CD A common recommendation is to try desensitizing your dog to storms, for example play a CD of storm sounds while you offer him something enjoyable during that time, such as a game of fetch or a kong stuffed with treats. This may work for some dogs, but often the fear of storms is not just a noise aversion but is triggered by multiple stimuli, such as the electrical charge in the atmosphere or the barometric pressure change.

by Pat Hennessy

Y

ou just sat down, got comfortable, and turned on your favorite show with your sweet little bundle of fur by your side. Next thing you know Roxie gets up, starts pacing, then whining, then nudging you.

“What’s wrong, girl?” you say. “Do you need out?” She paws at you and wants to climb in your lap. You pet her for a minute and go back to watching your show. Roxie continues to paw at you and pushes in behind you. A few moments later you hear a distant rumble. “Oh, that’s what’s bothering you.” You hadn’t seen a storm on the horizon, but Roxie can predict it better than Doppler radar, and you know that you have an hour or more of whimpering, scratching, panting and pacing.

If this scenario is all too familiar — attempting to calm your dog, turning up the TV, or finding her burrowed in the closet — there is hope for both you and your canine companion to get through the spring without trauma. We don’t usually know why our dogs are afraid of storms. It could be from a lack of exposure and socializa10

MetroPet Magazine A PRIL 2009

REDUCING ANXIETY Behavior modification is definitely needed, but fear inhibits the ability to focus. If you can lower the anxiety level, then learning can take place. The first choice for reducing anxiety would be non-pharmaceutical methods, such as TTouch™ or Alpha-Stim™, which influence the nervous system to provide a calming effect and can be cumulative.

TTouch communicates to the nervous system through a gentle technique of specific touches, much lighter than massage, and relaxes you and your dog together. Another tool in the TTouch toolbox is the Body Wrap, a technique utilizing a stretchy fabric (like an Ace bandage), that you place around your

dog. It works like swaddling a baby. If you don’t have a stretch fabric, you can substitute a t-shirt and adjust the fitting so that it is not too loose or too tight. Wraps or t-shirts should only be used with supervision.

Another version of this technique is the Anxiety-Wrap (www.anxietywrap.com), a combination of a shirt and a wrap (the best of both worlds).

Alpha-Stim is an electro-therapy technique using lowgrade variable frequencies which foster the flow of energy through the body, especially to areas that can be shut down due to fear or pain.

MODERATE TO INTENSE STORM PHOBIA If your dog has a moderate to intense storm phobia, additional tools you can try in conjunction with behavior modification and non-pharmaceutical techniques, would be: • Calming supplements, such as ProQuiet® made with L-tryptophan or Calmazon a blend of Amazon Rainforest herbs • Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) diffusers (that come as a plug-in unit or a spray to use on bedding or add to a scarf around the neck)

Alpha-Stim is an electro-therapy technique using low-grade variable frequencies which foster the flow of energy through the body, especially to areas that can be shut down due to fear or pain.

• Aromatherapy, such as lavender oil, can have a calming effect • Flower essences, such as Rescue Remedy which is available at most health food stores, are a blend of flowers infused with water — used to help restore balance (several animal blends are available at www.greenhopeessences.com) • Soft soothing music can help balance body rhythms (www.rhythmicmedicine.com)

• Calming Cap, is a nylon mask-like item that attaches to your dog’s collar and goes over his face. Be very observant on this one to make sure that your dog really relaxes, often times he will just “shut down” but it will appear that he is calm. If that is the case, he is really not “learning” how to relax during a storm.

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veterinarian feel that you are down to the pharmaceutical options, be aware of the side effects. With some drugs it can appear that your dog is relaxed but she is still experiencing fear; she just can’t react due to the sedative effect. This can actually make her fear worse.

If your vet determines medication is necessary, you can still use TTouch™, DAP, music, and aromatherapy as complimentary techniques.

There are many ways to approach the storm phobia problem. You need to assess the level of anxiety and apply the appropriate tools. The next time that the thunder rolls in, you can be ready before the lightning strikes.

SEVERE STORM PHOBIA If your dog has a more severe case of storm phobia and you want to avoid pharmaceuticals, consult a veterinarian that offers alternative techniques such as acupuncture, acupressure, or homeopathy. If you and your

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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.

5th Annual

KC PetApril Expo 18 & 19

by Pat Riha

P

ets are an integral part of life. Whether it’s traditional dogs and cats, or more exotic lizards and fish, pet ownership is at an all time high. As more species of animals have become readily available as pets, it is important that information, products and services become available for the health, welfare and care of these animals.

The goal of the The Kansas City Pet Expo is to provide the public with an opportunity to learn about both common and not-so-common animals that are found as pets, and the products and services that are available to provide optimal care for these animals.

No More Homeless Pets KC, the presenting sponsor for the 2009 Kansas City Pet Expo, is a coalition of veterinarians, humane societies, municipal shelters, rescue groups, spay/neuter groups, and individuals who are working toward a time when there will be No More Homeless Pets Kansas City.

The Pet Expo benefits Animal Haven, the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City, K.C. Animal Health & Public Safety, and Wayside Waifs.

NOTE: For health and safety reasons the public will not be allowed to bring any animals into the The Kansas City Pet Expo except for animals assisting the disabled.

Wanna Go? What:

5th Annual Kansas City Pet Expo

Who:

The KC Pet Expo was founded in 2005 by consumer tradeshow producers Patrick and Kate Riha.

When:

April 18 & 19 2009

Where:

American Royal Center

Cost:

$8.50 for adults, $6.00 for children 6 - 12 years of age; children 5 and under are free.

Details: Visit www.kcpetexpo.com or call

816-931-4686 A $1 discount per ticket is available with a Price Chopper Shopper Card.

Visit These Advertisers at Pet Expo Booths!

Heart of America Invisible Fence List accurate as of March 17, 2009.

A PRIL 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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Wa l k this Wa y

doned. On the lonesome days, when the skies are dull and the wind worries at hair and fur, it is easy to imagine ownership of the paths we walk. My dogs zig-zag their way down familiar avenues of sight and sound and scent. I lose myself in their joy. We are alone, and the city is ours.

But on the other days, the sunny, beckoning, amiable days of spring, our walks take on a more complicated purview. No longer free agents, roaming the world at will, we become its citizens, ambassadors brokering a peace between our two nations: human and canine. It isn’t always easy, and my dogs are not perfect. In fact, with trainers’ dogs it is often the case of the cobbler’s kids having no shoes. But though I may at times follow their natural rhythms of idleness and activity, in a busy human landscape, it is I who must lead; they must follow or lose their tenuous rights of residency. It is not my law. It is society’s. And so, as any good diplomat, I help my canine expatriates negotiate a culture at times antipodal to their own.

CANINE GOOD CITIZENS

by Suezanne Law

I

t is as though my dogs’ souls awaken with the greening of the year. At the first breath of spring they arise and shake off the restfulness of the winter months, unfurl their bodies like curling shoots, and seek out the sun. I am wise enough to follow.

In Kansas we must take our good weather when we can get it. As I write this, one month before publication, yesterday’s high was near 70° F and tonight we are expecting snow; which only means that on any given day, the sidewalks and walking trails of our city may be populous or nearly aban14

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Every interaction you have with your dog, his whole life-long, he is learning something from you — whether you are mindful of that fact or not. He is learning what you expect and what he can get away with, what you notice and what you ignore.

So whatever the weather, make sure that your interactions with Two universes mosey your dog provide him with the down the street knowledge and skills necessary to pass muster in a human world.

Connected by love and a leash and nothing else.

Mostly I look at lamplight through the leaves While he mooches along with tail up and snout down, Getting a secret knowledge through the nose Almost entirely hidden from my sight.

From the poem Walking the Dog

by Howard Nemerov

The American Kennel Club recommends that every dog know five basic cues: Sit Stay Down Heel Come

Practicing these behaviors with your dog in your home will give him a good start towards learning to get along well in human society. But dogs often have trouble applying what they learn in one situation to how they must behave in other situations. Sometimes, families feel that dogs who behave well at home but not in public are being stubborn. Instead, the dog’s misbehavior is usually due to not having adequately practiced this new skill: behaving well in the face of distractions.

• Challenge your dog’s skills, but remember to help him remain successful, too!

MOVE OVER ROVER But good citizenship involves more than good behavior: you must also have the foresight and courtesy to share space with your cohabitants so that all may benefit and thrive.

WHEN YOU TAKE YOUR SHOW ON THE ROAD When poop happens, pick it up. The old adage “poop rolls down hill” is true both literally and figuratively, your dog’s waste litters the world’s playground, contaminates our waterways,

To begin teaching your dog to apply the skills he learns at home to the many situations he faces in public, practice the following exercises: • Gradually increase the level of distraction present during your training exercises with your dog.

• Practice in every room of your home, and both inside and outside.

• Carry an item of interest to your dog while you train.

• Change your body position and tone of voice frequently during your practice.

• Enroll in a group dog training class to make sure your dog can behave well in the presence of other dogs.

• Practice training exercises at corners while walking your dog.

• Take your show on the road: train everywhere you go with your dog.

A PRIL 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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Springtime salads may be slimming but pilfered plants can be poisonous! Watch out for your dog around these common garden dangers : Daffodils

Holly

Tulips

Azalea

Onion

Yucca

Clematis

Dieffenbachia

Rhododendron Lily of the Valley English Ivy Morning Glory For a comprehensive list, please visit www.aspca.org/toxicplants

Does not play well with others: Some dogs do well at the dog park; other dogs do not. If your dog belongs to the latter group, do not take him to the dog park to “socialize” him. A trip to the dog park can be a risky proposition for even the most resilient dog, and one negative experience can color a dog’s perception of his fellow four-legged for life. Do yourself, your dog, and your community a favor and find a more socially responsible way to exercise your dog. Ask a trainer if you need help.

Besides teaching your dog the Basic Five, here are more training exercises you may find helpful in the coming months: Leave It

and spreads disease, all of which endanger our ability to keep our loyal companions. Scoop!

Space invaders Everyone loves a well-socialized dog, right? Not so fast, compadre. While many people love dogs (and in fact approximately 33% of American families live with one or more dogs), your little four-legged, waggy-tailed social butterfly may not be always welcome. I, for instance, love dogs — but I have a dog who does not. And while I may appreciate your compliments as he is performing yet another perfect sit-stay on the side of the path while you and your dog pass by, a visit I do not need. Keep your flexi-lead locked and your feet moving, and always ask before you approach.

— prevents your dog from enjoying the jelly beans, chocolate bunnies, and other springtime delicacies just a little too much.

Drop It — saves your dog from tummy trouble associated with munching mulch (and keeps that game of fetch going, too).

Tricks

— a great way to include your dog and provide entertainment during warm-weather get-togethers with friends.

LASSIE, COME HOME! And finally, before you and your dog go “hopping down the bunny trail” this spring, be sure to practice his “recall” so he’ll come hopping home again!

The Recall should always mean good things for your dog: always associate his name and the word “Come” with happiness and fun!

Play “The Name Game” often so that your dog responds instantly and enthusiastically to his name!

Hide-and-Go-Seek is terrific mental and physical stimulation for your dog — and it’s a great way to strengthen his Recall, too!

Suezanne M. Law is a caninehuman relationship counselor and accredited dog trainer. She opened Sympawtico Dog Training, LLC to better tailor her training curriculum to the needs of her community. Visit her at www.sympawtico.com.

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How Cute is Your Pet? Enter your pet in our contest!

Submit your pet’s photo at MetroPetMag.com

The Crazy Cat — This cat is insane — he is just like a dog. He pants and he even plays fetch! He wants to be on someone’s lap all the time, and if he can, he will carry his favorite mouse on a stick around. One of the weirdest things he’s ever done was when we left him alone in the bedroom for about two minutes with two rolls of toilet paper, he had chewed both rolls of toilet paper and was just looking at us like “what”. He is the funniest cat in the world.

Submitted by Claire Rainey.

ENTER THE ONLINE P H O T O C O N T E S T AT W W W .M E T R O P E T M A G . C O M

Five Musketeers — All five went to the beauty shop and were all clean and beautiful with their scarves the groomer put on them. I thought a family photo was in order. So here are the five musketeers — Apache, Snickers, Scarlet, Mia and Lucy! Submitted by Susie Jean

Wyatt — This is my baby, Wyatt. He’s a 3.5 lbs. long hair chihuahua who thinks he owns the world. Submitted by Isabel Clements

when we go places, and not just to pet stores but when we go out to eat (you will see dog bowls on restaurant and coffee shop patios), go for a run or walk on a trail, or even go to work.

THINK ABOUT IT

I s Yo u r D o g Yo u r C o - P i l o t ?

Finding the Canine Compatible Car

by Pat Hennessy

Y

ou’ve got spring fever. You are itching to get out and do something. You know you need to get started on the yard but you need to go look at landscaping places. And, you’re starting to feel hungry. You grab your shoes and immediately you have three dogs dancing around you.

They know what shoes mean — you’re going somewhere. They are hoping it means they get to go too. “Can we go?” “C’mon…please; we’ll be good doggies.” “Well, ok,” you say. “You can go.” You head out to the car, pop the hatch; the dogs hop in to their places and away you go. Such is the life for your canine companions.

When shopping for a family car not only do you consider the safety rating and available options, such as front wheel drive, extra cargo space or luxury items like heated seats or GPS, but you evaluate the vehicle for compatibility with your pets. After all, your pets are important members of the family and it is the family car. We frequently take our pets with us 18

MetroPet Magazine A PRIL 2009

Statistics show that 47% of dog owners think of their dog when purchasing a vehicle. People not only want space and functionality in their vehicle, but they want real utility: Will two crates fit in the back? Can I fit three or four dogs easily (along with all our gear)? Do I have a place to attach a leash or bungee (for a crate) in the back? You can look at both pet and auto trends to see that people take their pets with them a lot.

• If your car can’t accommodate a crate or you don’t want to take the crate in and out, you can use a harness style seat belt to keep your dog safe ( check out www.petautosafety.com).

Statistics show that 47% of dog owners think of their dog when purchasing a vehicle.

• If you have an older dog that is dealing with arthritis and is challenged with getting in and out of the car, or a dog recovering from a recent surgery, there are ramps designed to fit the back or sides of vehicles to make it easier on Rex. • For our smaller animal companions, there are booster seats available so that they can look out the window and enjoy the ride.

TOP TWO AUTOS FOR PET LOVERS The top two autos for pet lovers are in the sport utility family. One is the Honda Element and the other is the Subaru Outback.

The Honda Element is four-wheel drive and comes with wide-open side doors, washable flooring and with its box-like style has config-

urable seating and a versatile cargo design.

The Element would certainly function as a Dog Taxi.

SUBARU OUTBACK If you were looking for something a bit lower to the ground, more like a car, then you should consider the Subaru Outback. The Outback is all wheel drive and comes with hooks in the back for attaching leashes or bungee cords (to crates). Rubber matting and metal dog barriers are available as options. The Forester is a bit smaller version of the Outback and comes with the same options available (and fits three large dogs easily as I can attest to). Sixty percent of Subaru owners share their lives with pets and several dealerships throughout the U.S. feature a pet friendly waiting area with dog bowls and treats ( check out Lee’s Summit Subaru www.leessummitsubaru.com ). Subaru just had a promotion called “Share the Love” where they donated $250 to the ASPCA, the National Wildlife

SPRING FLING BLOCK PARTY On April 25 from 10am-2pm Subaru of Lee’s Summit, Pete & Mac’s Recreational Resort and Animal Emergency Referral Hospital (AERH) will host a Spring Fling Block Party focusing on safety.

The event will feature the Forester from Lee’s Summit Subaru, #2 rated safest pet vehicle in America. Pete & Mac’s Recreational Resort for Pets and AERH will cover safety theme for pets, and children with pets. The day will include CPR Red Cross and First Aid demos and an agility demonstration at 1:00 pm.

The event will be held at the Lee’s Summit Pete & Mac’s Recreational Resort for Pets at 600 NE Pavestone Dr., LS, MO. There will be many gifts presented for the raffle drawing and a luncheon. All proceeds benefit The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City, who will be on hand with their big RV offering adoptions. There will be also be live feed with 93.3 The Mix. For more details visit www.petemac.com (816-246-1116), www.aerh-kc.com (816-554-4990) or www.leessummitsubaru.com (816 251-8600).

COME JOIN US FOR ALL THE FUN!

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SHARE THE LOVE This unique marketing campaign based on the love Subaru owners have for their vehicles and their desire to help worthy causes. The campaign ran from November 24 - January 2 and allowed Subaru new vehicle customers to select one of five charities (Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Habitat for Humanity International, Meals on Wheels, the National Wildlife Federation and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), to receive a $250 donation from Subaru of America, following the lease or purchase of a new Subaru.

Patrick Steiner, GSM of Lee’s Summit Subaru points out that in our economic downtime, donations to charities are one of the first to suffer.

The 4.6 million dollars that was handed over was one of the factors that contributed to Subaru’s sales success in 2008, as the only volume brand to post a sales increase in the U.S. Federation, or other charities, with the purchase of a new car. They care about your pets and the planet.

THE SEAL OF APPROVAL Whatever car you have, or choose, your dog will give it the seal of approval just as long as he gets to go with you. If your dog (or cat) doesn’t travel well and you would like to take him with you more often there are a few things you can do to make it a more enjoyable experience. There are techniques you can use with light touch and wraps to make him feel more comfortable physiologically (dealing with equilibrium and anxiety), while building a positive association to being in the car. You would use these techniques on short car rides and build from there. Next thing you know you will have him dancing at your feet when you put your shoes on too.

As spring fever hits, take the opportunity to journey out with your animal companion. They love to be by your side whether it is at home or on the road.

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). She recently purchased a Subaru because of its pet friendly features. You may contact N2Paws via email pat@n2paws.com, phone 816-522-7005, or visit the website www.n2paws.com.

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Basic Travel Tips for Pets USE SOME TYPE OF RESTRAINT Animals need some form of safety restraint when in the car. If you use a crate it should be well ventilated, have a secure door and latch and be large enough so your animal can sit and lie down. You can make the carrier more comfortable by lining the bottom with a blanket. An alternative to the crate is a restraining harness that can connect a dog to safety belts, preventing him from flying forward during sudden braking or impact. The dog can stand, sit or lie down, but not get loose.

KEEP DOGS SAFE IN TRUCKS Dogs love trucks; but it’s estimated that more than 100,000 dogs die because of falls from pickup trucks. Bumps in the road or quick swerving motions can throw the dog out of the truck bed, injuring or killing him as well as causing accidents as other drivers swerve to avoid the dog. Dogs can also jump out — sometimes because the bed becomes too hot for their paws. According to the Humane Society of the United States there is no harness or leash that will keep a dog safe in the back of a pickup truck — in fact, it could strangle or drag him if he's thrown.

Instead, place the dog in a carrier in the back of an extended or crew cab. If you must put a dog in the bed, get a crate made especially for that purpose — and tie it down tight.

NO DOGGY IN THE WINDOW Dogs absolutely love to stick their heads out the window. Though it’s sad to deprive them of this enjoyment, many dogs are injured when road debris or insects fly into their eyes, nostrils or windpipe. They can also become ill by having cold air forced into their lungs. What’s more, dogs have accidentally strangulated themselves by stepping on the electric window control. So keep the dog inside.

NEVER LEAVE YOUR PET ALONE IN THE CAR In the summer, the car’s internal temperature can rise to fatal levels very quickly, even with the windows ajar. If you need to run into a store or stop for a bite to eat, take your pet with you if possible.

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The Chance To Be A Champion

Adopt…

Don’t Shop! acknowledging their inherent right not to be killed. Their life is dependent solely on the generous act of people choosing to adopt from a shelter.

Adopting a pet from a shelter won’t change the world, but it will change the world for that one pet.

BENEFITS OF ADOPTING FROM SHELTERS Local animal shelters are your very best source when looking for a new pet. Every shelter will have a great selection of animals in just about every size, shape, color and type — kittens, cats, puppies, dogs and sometimes even those not-so-mainstream animals like birds or rabbits! And for those who are set on finding a pure bred animal, according to the Humane Society of the United States, up to 25-30% of a shelter’s population at any given time consists of pure bred animals. If you don’t find what you’re looking for during your first visit, make a second.

Shelters receive new animals every single day and may also be willing to put you on a contact list when a certain type of animal comes into the facility.

A HEAD-START

by Jennifer Fisher

W

ebster defines champion as “one that does battle for another’s rights or honor.” What better description is there for someone who saves a life by adopting an animal from a shelter?

Each act of adopting from a shelter not only saves a life but is 22

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Shelter animals typically have a “head-start” in that many of them are already housebroken and trained and have some understanding of what living with a family is like and how to fit in. Shelter pets are grateful to have a second chance at a happy life. They can and do bond with their new owners and become the most devoted and loving of family pets.

LESS MONEY OUT OF YOUR POCKET Another benefit is that adopting from a shelter is usually less expensive than buying from a store or a breeder. Adoption fees will

typically include vaccinations, deworming, spay/neuter services as well as microchip identification. You will also receive literature on caring for your new family member and assistance from adoption counselors should you have questions.

It is estimated that

4-5 million animals will be euthanized in shelters throughout the United States in 2008.

The great majority of those animals are perfectly healthy and adoptable. They are typically euthanized simply to make space for additional animals coming into the system. The imbalance between the number of incoming animals to shelters and the number of adoptions can be resolved. The two most effective

tools to achieve that balance is to increase the number of shelter adoptions and implementing affordable spay/neuter services.

HOMELESSNESS AND EUTHANASIA It has been estimated by the No Kill Advocacy Center that if we increase the number of shelter adoptions across the country by just 5%, the needless euthanasia would end. The simple act of spaying or neutering an animal prevents unwanted litters from being born; litters that could very well end up in a shelter. Making spay/neuter services affordable to every pet owner is paramount to ending needless euthanasia.

The holiday season has just passed and more animals were adopted than at any other time of the year. If you gave or received an animal, have it spayed or neutered. In the future, if you are looking to add a pet to your family, adopt… don’t shop! These two acts alone can virtually eliminate the needless euthanasia of homeless pets in our country.

Adopting a pet from a shelter won’t change the world, but it will change the world for that one pet.

Jennifer Fisher contributed this article for No More Homeless Pets KC. For more information about No More Homeless Pets KC please call 816-333-PETS or visit www.NoMoreHomelessPetsKC.org.

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Feline Signs Aries (Mar. 21 - Apr. 19) The Stray Cat The Aries Cat has no desire to spend evenings in a mutual haze of “stroke and purr” with his or her owner and a well-balanced, two-sided partnership between human and cat will never be within the range of this creature. Basically a loner, if forcibly confined to the lap of one who feels the need for company, the Aries Cat will quickly convert from a feline to a writhing bundle of needle-ridden fur.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21)

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22)

Cat On A Hot Tin Roof Being exceptionally bright creatures, the Gemini Cat will soon learn how to open any cat-flap. This cat views the home as one glorious adventure playground created especially for its enjoyment. This feline will cavort endlessly, sliding down banisters and climbing up curtains, but hardly ever sits still long enough for a cuddle.

The Top Cat This cat is intensely loyal (in its own way) and equally as faithful as it is selfopinionated. In fact, as cats go, this feline can be quite a friendly soul. However, being inherently jealous by nature, the Leo Cat does not care to be in a houseful of other animals who will doubtless compete for attention. Although a confident creature, this cat is proud and easily embarrassed, with surprisingly fragile feelings.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22) The Crazy Cat There may possibly even be a feeling of togetherness as this cat sleeps through the day in the middle of the kitchen, but it is important not be too easily fooled. Should the necessity arise to move residence, the Cancer Cat is likely to refuse to follow...humans simply do not mean that much to this feline.

This cat has the uncanny ability to melt a human heart with its constant desire for affection.

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Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) The Kitten Cat Outside, with nature at paw’s reach, this feline will forget all his or her problems and hang-ups. Birdwatching or other type of nature study will quickly relax the Virgo Cat, while giving the owner some breathing space at the same time. However, it would truly be foolish to expect this feline to catch any mice.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) The Copy-Cat The Libra Cat will be a truly loving and devoted feline. An inherent urge for unity with others will make it natural for this cat to create an atmosphere of harmonious relationships with home companions...and of dire importance to this feline is to be among people who are sympathetically inclined.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) The Cat’s Pajamas The Scorpio Cat is always strangely drawn to those unfortunate humans who are not fond of cats. If such an individual is invited into the home and tries to banish the Scorpio Cat, it will fail to work.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) The Stable Cat It can help if there are other animals in the household, as this provides practical stimulation for the Sagittarius Cat, who is fond of feline companionship and delighted to allow another cat (or even more than one) to share home and family. Still, the true love of this feline’s life will always be horses.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan 20) The Cat Burglar The Capricorn Cat prefers city life to country living. In the beginning, the Capricorn kitten appears to be fitting-in quickly.

They will be house-trained almost overnight and

may only once make the mistake of jumping onto the kitchen table.

Aquarius (Jan. 21 - Feb. 18) The Hip Cat Contact with humans (albeit from a distance) is more important to an Aquarius Cat than the time spent with other felines and his or her best friends are likely to be birds. This cat will attract people with an incredibly strange allure until he or she has a battery of acquaintances of all shapes and sizes, from all walks of life.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20) The Ship’s Cat Natives of Cancer and Scorpio tend to get on best with the economic “two for the price of one” bundle which is the Pisces Cat. Cancer subjects possess a big enough sense of humor to actually enjoy this feline’s many quirks and peculiarities, while Scorpio subjects will combine their psychic powers with that of the Pisces Cat, making for something of a psychedlic atmosphere at times.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) The Earth Mother It will be necessary to vacuum, dust and step around this feline. This cat sleeps most of time and during slumber, nothing will awaken it. This cat rarely allows paws or torso to lose contact with a solid surface because it will be too heavy to move very far.

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Grain-Free:

Natural Nutrition for Carnivores However, while the number and variety of food choices has changed over time, the digestive physiology and nutritional requirements of dogs and cats have remained the same. based diets and truly thrive when their diet is rotated between food styles and flavors. Ideally, dogs and cats should be fed a commercially prepared grain-free raw meat diet that has been carefully formulated to mimic prey consumed in the wild. Importantly, the diet should supply essential nutrients and have passed AAFCO feeding trials.

WHAT IS GRAIN-FREE?

by Laura Duclos, Ph.D

N

utrition for companion animals has blossomed within the past few years. Pet owners have a seemingly overwhelming number of choices when it comes to selecting food for their dogs and cats; store shelves are lined with a plethora of brands and an array of flavors and food styles within each brand. Adding to this confusion are diets tailored to specific breeds, lifestages, or medical conditions.

Cats are strict carnivores and dogs, while technically omnivores, are carnivores by choice. Both types of pets require predominantly meat26

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Grain is defined as “a food product harvested from cereal grasses.” Wheat, rye, corn, oat, rice, and millet are common examples of cereal grasses. These plants have been cultivated and selectively bred by humans to enhance the starch producing ability. They were never a nutritional component in the diets of ancestral dogs and cats. It is not surprising then, that cats have difficulty digesting grains and that many dogs develop severe allergies to corn and wheat. Moreover, over 40% of pets are obese contributing to the rise in diabetes, a condition aggravated by high-grain diets. Grain-free nutrition is a dietary option that excludes problematic cereal grains and provides pets with instinctive nutrition — more meat.

DOES GRAIN-FREE MEAN CARBOHYDRATE FREE? Not all grain-free diets are carbohydrate-free. It is important to read labels and ask about carbohydrate content. Carbohydrates — chains of sugar units held togeth-

It is important to remember that just like protein sources, not all grain-free starch sources are equally digestible. er with various bonds — are found in fruits, vegetables, and other starches. Within the small intestine, enzymes produced by the pancreas break apart the carbohydrate chains into single sugar units such as glucose. Dogs have fairly active enzymes whereas cats do not; cats should be fed low carbohydrate diets.

Selecting raw frozen and canned diets offer the best choice for a grain-free, low carbohydrate diet. These food styles are typically <5% carbohydrate. Grain-free kibble is also available, yet this food style will contain between 1225% carbohydrate because the manufacturing process requires starch to bind the kibble together. Potato starch and tapioca are two grain-free starch options harvested from vegetable tubers (roots). It is important to remember that just like protein sources, not all grainfree starch sources are equally digestible. For example, tapioca is 90-95% digestible whereas potato is only 50-70% digestible with approximately 30% passing out in the feces.

DECIDING TO FEED GRAIN-FREE Grain-free nutrition is instinctive nutrition that helps pets thrive. It is paramount to read labels and ask questions. Ideally, raw frozen diets should be fed and rotated with grain-free canned and kibble.

It is best to buy a commercially prepared raw frozen diet from a reputable company because homemade raw diets can be insufficient to meet the nutritional requirements of dogs and cats. Homemade raw diets should only be fed under the guidance of a veterinary nutritionist. Remember, dogs and cats are meat eaters by natures, and it is beneficial to feed them accordingly.

Dr. Duclos is the head of Research and Development at Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Variety. She has a degree in animal nutrition, a Vet tech degree, and her PHD is in biological nutrition. Learn more about this brand of pet food at www.naturesvariety.com.

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Ask The Groomer Understanding your pets better

If your groomers have mentioned behavior problems, make sure your dog has gone for a long walk and is tired for his appt. Sometimes visiting the groomers once a week just for treats may recondition the dog and change its expectations.

Routine grooming at home, like brushing for ten minutes every night on a table will definitely make the professional grooming experience more routine and not so foreign. Talk to your groomer about your concerns and try different things to help your pet with his anxiety so he can have fun and look great too.

by Cheryl Wyrick

Q A

Why does my little dog act so frightened when I leave him at the groomers?

Grooming should be a wonderful part of a petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. If taken to the groomers on a regular basis, your pet should enjoy the experience and feel pampered every time.

There are many factors that determine why the dog is fearful.

I think some dogs act as though they are arriving at the vet.

Most only see the vet when they need shots or are sick. They rarely get to have a good experience. My salon used to be in a vet clinic and I saw a huge difference in the attitude of the dogs when I moved out and into my separate space. Some dogs only see the groomers when they have matted hair and it hurts to detangle or shave a matted coat. Also, if your pet never leaves the house it may be scared anywhere you go, especially if you leave him with new people. Socializing is a great contribution to creating a well balanced pet. Groomers groom dogs because they love what they do and want it to be positive.

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Q A

Why does my white poodle have dark stains under her eyes?

There can be many reasons why the dark color is there. Sometimes it is an allergic reaction to food, grass or household chemicals.

In older dogs it can become a sore with a scab that is difficult to remove without causing pain.

Sometimes a bad tooth can be the problem. If there are no major medical problems, there are things you can do to help control the stain.

Provide a high quality healthy diet, and avoid artificial coloring or high grain levels. People tell me bottled or filtered drinking water makes a noticeable difference. For some, it can be as simple as using a warm wet washcloth to clean the area daily. The spot is a stain from the drainage and if it is kept clean it might not stain. There are plenty of products on the market designed for this problem. In my opinion, most donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t work. The special shampoos for the face do

work if they are used on a regular basis. Keeping the hair cut short under the eyes help too. Some dogs have to have antibiotics or surgery if there is a medical problem. Discuss your concerns with your groomer and/or your veterinarian.

Q A

Can my dog have fleas in the winter?

Q

I have a golden doodle and the breeder said it didn’t need grooming when I bought it, why does it get matted and have to get a short haircut?

Yes, it is possible to have fleas on your pet in the winter. Seventy degrees in your home is a perfect environment for fleas. On a warm day, a flea can jump on your pet during a walk or a trip to the park. People think that cold weather kills the fleas. In fact they can lie dormant for months waiting for the right temperature to wake up. It is important to spray the yard in the fall to avoid having an infestation in the house or in the spring. Keep preventative on your pet until the ground freezes. There are several products on the market to choose from. Many that are sold at grocery stores or pet supply places have not been through adequate research and may not be safe or effective. I do not recommend flea collars or dips because of the dangerous level of chemicals. Never put more than one flea product on your pet at a time. An overdose of chemicals can be toxic. Routine grooming in itself is a form of prevention. Talk to your vet or groomer about your options.

The popular ‘designer’ dogs like golden/standard poodle mixes are extremely difficult to predict what kind of coat they will have when they grow up.

Some breeders advertise that they don’t shed or they do not need grooming. Any time you mix two breeds together it is a gamble of temperament, coat, and sometimes size. Any time you are considering a new pet, please be sure to do your research.

It is a good idea to ask a groomer what those breeds require before choosing a pet.

Most of the ‘doodles’ we see at the salon are very thick poodle type coats which do demand high maintenance and routine professional grooming. Some have more of a golden coat and are abundant shedders.

It is similar to when you adopt a homeless puppy from a rescue or shelter, you take a chance and “get what you get”. If the puppy grows a long fluffy coat, it will need to be brushed on a regular basis at home, maybe even daily, along with professional grooming. If the coats goes without proper care it will become matted and have to be clipped

A

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very short. Make sure you have the tools to do some grooming at home. A professional brush can make a world of difference.

As soon as you get a new dog, or puppy go to the groomer and ask what kind of hair care it needs.

Q A

How can I save money and still take good care of my “Princess?”

There are numerous ways to control your spending on your pet and still provide proper grooming, and pamper her.

• Schedule your grooming in advance when it is most convenient financially (right after paydays?)

• Invest in a good brush and comb to do some of the maintenance at home to spread the visits out a bit more. This will also prevent mat fees.

• Try a shorter haircut to make it last longer, even in the winter, if she is a house dog.

• Ask your groomer if you can get a discount for scheduling a “standing appointment.”

• If you dog has a double coat and sheds, try to brush more at home to save money when you do have a bath or the “shedless” treatment at the groomers.

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Q A

Can you groom a cat?

Yes, cats can be groomed. We see a variety of pets including cats, rabbits and an occasional guinea pig. Many groomers do not choose to groom cats because of personal preference or lack of training. Some of us have a “calling” for the furry felines.

The short haired cats need to be brushed to help with shedding. Long haired cats will get mats if the coat is not combed.

We can shave it to look like a lion. Grooming can control the amount of hair in your home. We can give a cat a bath to help with human allergies We can even do a quick brush out and toe nail trim to help with maintenance, if that is all it needs. Cats get groomed all the time. Check with your groomer and see if she (or he) is qualified to groom your cat.

Cheryl Wyrick has been grooming in Waldo since 1989. She currently manages Pampered Paws Grooming, Inc. Wyrick can be reached at 816-333-2522 or by email: Pamperedinkc @sbcglobal.net or at Pamperedpawsgroominginc.com

Ask the Vet

by Michael Tarrant, DVM, CVA

Q.

My dog has allergies and my vet put her on steroids, are there any other things I can do for her?

A.

Yes, there are many alternatives to using steroids for allergies. There are antihistamines, shampoos, conditioners and lotions for the skin. There are also things like providing a good quality diet, omega fatty acids, supplements, herbal medicine, acupuncture and homeopathy. Most of the time a combination of these things works best.

Q.

My dog has arthritis â&#x20AC;&#x201D; what options do I have to treat her pain?

A.

There are many things that can help animals with arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (similar to Aspirin), joint supplements such as Glucosamine/Chondroiton/MSM and different types of pain medications can be used. There are also injections that help with the joint fluid and there are therapies such as changes in diet, acupuncture, herbal medicine, homeopathy, and chiropractic treatments that help the body heal itself by reducing pain and inflammation through changes in blood flow, hormone levels, the release of endorphins (the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own pain killers), and re-programming the nervous system pain signals.

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. See ad at right.

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Q&A Ask the Trainer

by Dani Rouse When people find out that I work with dogs, they ask questions about their dog’s behavior. These questions vary. Since spring is upon us, these are some of the more popular questions for this time of year.

Q

My dog barks at people walking down our street and even the mailman and he comes everyday.

How can I get him to stop?

Your dog is a pack animal and he will bark but you can manage it so he is not continually barking. When a dog barks, he is alerting you that he “perceives” a danger to his pack and his barking is to alert you. As the leader of your pack, you let him know that you acknowledge his alert but that as the leader it is not something to worry about. With the PAWS™ method, we teach that you simply do this by saying “Thank You” to your dog as calmly as you can. If your dog continues to bark, then make sure the dog sees you looking at the “danger” and repeat “Thank You.” If the dog continues to bark, then you must isolate the dog. If you are inside, just take the dog to a room and shut the door. Wait for the dog to quit barking. Once the dog quits, count to 10 and then let the dog out. No eye contact or voice contact when the dog returns, just calmly let the dog back “into the pack/family”. If you are outside, bring the dog into the house. You will need to consistently and calmly repeat these steps until the dog learns that you are OK with this and that the initial warning is all you need.

A

Q A

My dog is afraid of thunderstorms. How can I console my dog or help him with his fears

As humans we will cuddle or talk to our dogs to “soothe” them as that is what we do as humans. With our dogs, we need to look at this from their perspective. When we cuddle them or try to get them out from under the table or bed, we are making the problem worse because we are thinking “human” instead of “canine”. We are stressed because we are worried about them and they pick up on our stress and this makes them more agitated. What we need to do is “Make Nothing of Something.” So when we start hearing the thunder, we need to act like nothing is happening. We don't fear the thunder and we show our dogs that we don't fear it by going on with our busi32

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ness. Even if your dog should hide, just go about your business. Take a deep breath if you have to but keep your stress level down. For my clients, I suggest that they watch TV, read a book, clean a room, but do not acknowledge the dog's actions. Acting as the leader, you don’t fear the thunder. By going about your business, you are letting your dog know that they don't need to fear it either. This is not an overnight fix, but by doing this calmly and consistently during every storm, your dog will start to relax quicker with each incident.

Q

I really don’t walk my dog. I feel we are going out drag racing and my dog is the driver. How can I have a more relaxing walk?

With my clients, I suggest practicing your walking skills at home where the dog is most comfortable. You can practice in your home or in your backyard if it is a nice day. How does the dog react when you get out the leash for the walk? I ask him to wait until he calms down and you can hook the leash with one hand. The dog can be sitting or standing but it needs to be calm on its own. No commands, just wait patiently until he is calm. Once the leash is attached, do not move until the dog leaves slack in the leash.

You want to be leading the walk — not the dog. So anytime that the lead is taut, then you stop. It doesn’t matter if the dog is ahead or behind you, just that you have slack in the leash and you are leading the walk. Anytime the dog pulls the leash taut, you stop. You’ll need to take a lot of time to practice this at home before you go “out into the world”. But by practicing at home, you teach your dog that you lead the walk and if he tries to take on that job by pulling the leash tight, you will stop the walk. After a few days and you feel your dog is no longer pulling more than following you, you can try small walks from home. As you calmly and consistently practice this, you will gradually be able to lengthen your walks.

A

K9 Instincts shows people how to gain the willing cooperation of their dogs without the use of force, gadgets, or frustration! You will learn how to “listen” to your dog’s signals and use their natural instincts so they will want to cooperate with you. K9 Instincts will come into your home to demonstrate there is no magic or mystery to listening and communicating with your dog.

Lifetime back-up service is included for no extra charge. You can reach Dani Rouse at 816-322-4133, on the web at www.k9-instincts.com or by email at doglistener@K9-instincts.com

M ETRO P ET R ESOURCE WHO? LEE’S SUMMIT SUBARU WHERE? 2101 NE Independence Ave, Lee’s Summit, MO Phone 816-251-8600 Fax: 816-251-8617 www.leessummitsubaru.com email: patrick@leessummitsubaru.com

HOW LONG IN BUSINESS? Since April, 2007 WHY ARE YOU DIFFERENT? The relationships we form with our clients. Our clear intent is to have them last forever. We also offer a pet friendly service department! We service most vehicles and you can enjoy time with your pet, while your vehicle is being serviced.

BENEFITS OF LEE’S SUMMIT SUBARU Of course our great service, selection and pricing. But if I had to pick one word, it would be “FUN!” Our clients have fun doing business with us. The not the “norm” at car dealerships.

REASONS CUSTOMERS COME BACK! They know we genuinely care about them and their needs. We WOW them from the first visit because that's our everyday standard.

See our ad on pg. 19 A PRIL 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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UpcomingEvents Egg-Stravaganza Sunday, April 5, 1:30 - 4 pm at Woof’s Play & Stay Sponsored by:

Woof’s Play & Stay Precious Pets Memorial Center For more info call 913-403-WOOF or 913-685-PETS

Pet Expo Sat - Sun April 18-19 American Royal Center Call 816-931-4686 or visit www.kcpetexpo.org

Spring Fling Block Party Saturday, April 25, 10 am - 2 pm at Pete and Mac’s, Lee’s Summit Sponsored by:

AERH 816-554-4990 Pete and Mac’s 816-246-1116 Lee’s Summit Subaru 816-251-8600

WoofStock Sunday April 26 8 am - 12 pm at Zona Rosa Northland Animal Welfare Society A family friendly festival in the Northland. Dog fashion show; dog singing contest; 5 mile run and 1 mile walk; rescue animal demonstrations. Raffle prizes and much more! Register at www.pcnaws.com.

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MetroPet Magazine A PRIL 2009

ADVERTISER INDEX AERH (Animal Emergency Referral Hospital) aerh-kc.com • Inside Front Cover Arbor Creek Animal Hospital acanimalhospital.com • Pg. 31 Aussie Pet Mobile aussiepetmobile.com • Pg. 16 Brookside Pet Concierge brooksidepet.com • Pg. 12 Camp Bow Wow Olathe campbowwow.com/olathe • Pg. 33 ChemDry chem-dry.net//allcare.mo • Pg. 11 Critter Sitter Connection crittersitters.com • Pg. 20 Dog’s World of Fun dogsworldoffun.com • Pg. 5 Heart of America Invisible Fence 816.941.7700 • 913.722.9948 • Pg. 5 Invisible Fence of Kansas City invisiblefence.com • Pg. 23 Homestead Pet Resort and Spa homesteadpetresort.com • Pg. 17 K9-Instincts k9instincts.com • Pg. 32 Lee’s Summit Subaru leessummitsubaru.com • Pg. 19 Mariposa Veterinary Center mariposavet.com • Pg. 9 N2 Paws N2paws.com • Inside Front Cover Nature’s Varity naturesvariety.com • Back Cover No More Homeless Pets nmhpkc.org • Pg. 11 Pampered Paws Grooming pamperedpawsgroominginc.com • Pg. 29 Pet Expo kcpetexpo.com • Pg. 30 Pete And Mac’s petemac.com • Inside Back Cover Precious Pets Memorial Center preciouspetsmemorialcenter.com • Pg. 7, 21 ROI Marketing Services 816.942.1600 • Pg. 7 Rolling Acers Memorial Gardens visitrollingacres.com • Pg. 29 Scoopy the Poo scoopythepoo.com • Pg. 15 Stinkies scoopkc.com • Pg. 31 Sydney’s Pet Spa sydneyspetspa.com • Pg. 27 Sympawtico sympawtico.com • Pg. 9 Tails R’ Waggin tailsrwaggin.com • Pg. 21 Woof ’s Play and Stay woofsplaystay.com • Pg. 25 Wilks Radio Group KMXV-FM, Mix 93.3 • mix93.com • Pg. 8, 24 KFKF-FM, 94.1 • kfkf.com • Pg. 8, 24 KCKC-FM 102.1 • star102.com • Pg. 8, 24 KBEQ-FM 104.3 • q104kc.com • Pg. 8, 24