2009 Metro Pet Magazine August Anniversary Issue

July/August 2009

Happy Anniversary!

Free to Readers

JULY/AUGUST 2009

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30

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Feature Articles

In Every Issue

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Bow Wow-ing for Books

We are celebrating our one-year Anniversary!

Children find reading to dogs is much less intimidating.

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Top 10 Reasons

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16

Meeting the Evolutionary Needs of Your Cat

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Tips for feeding carnivore-friendly foods.

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Dog Bites Controlling and handling.

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28

Ask the Groomer Lessons in brushing.

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Upcoming Events

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

Greetings and Salutations To meet or not to meet?

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Cat Horoscopes How well do you know your cat?

Dog Park Etiquiette For you and your pet.

Ask the Vet Find out more about flea control.

On the Road Again General, the dog, goes on a cross-country trip on a motorcycle.

Dog Horoscopes How well do you really know your dog?

Why your dog’s grooming costs more than your haircut.

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Welcome Pet Lovers

Barks from Broadway Shelter dogs find new lives as show dogs.

MetroPet Resource 32

Brookdale Senior Living

J ULY / AUGUST 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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Publisher’s Message

Summer Time Fun! Wow! What a year! Can you believe this is our anniversary issue!!!! Just one year ago, the first issue of MetroPet arrived in Kansas City! Since that time we have created a magazine that people anxiously await and are excited to read!

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! Thank you to all our advertisers, supporters, and readers. We would not be publishing this anniversary issue if it wasn’t for all of you. One simple thank you seems totally inadequate, so maybe three will send the message of how much we appreciate you!

Please continue to read the magazine, give us feedback and support our advertisers. Readers: please tell our advertisers that you saw their ad in the magazine. This let’s them know their advertising dollars are paying off. When you do this, our advertisers continue to support the magazine and you get to enjoy it FREE! It is a great cycle — and it works, so please let advertisers know this is where you saw their ad.

WHAT IS NEXT? Get excited for the rest of 2009! If you thought the last 10 issues were great, just wait! We will be publishing some dynamite issues this year and will be attending and sponsoring some terrific events. Just for starters, you will now find MetroPet in a rack at the Starlight Gift Store (Ovation). This summer they have two shows that feature rescue dogs — check out the article on page 30.

MetroPet will be attending the MidWest Kid’s Fest! Why, because we are trying to reach pet owners from all over the city. Come see us! We are also working with the Wilkes Broadcasting Group on a Fall event, look for details at www.metropetmag.com.

THANK YOU AGAIN! Please continue to spread the word about how MetroPet is the Pet Owner’s Resource. And, check us out at www.metropetmag.com.

Have a great summer!

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 Cheryl Wyrick Heddie Leger Dr. Michelle Chappell, DVM, CVA Mike Jones Pat Hennessy Dr. Sean Delaney, DVM, MS Suezanne Law Whitney Bodenstab

Photographer Dan O'Leary

Contact MetroPet Barbara Riedel, Publisher

P.S. FYI, this is the July and August issue The next issue is September. See you then!!

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.

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

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MetroPet Magazine J ULY / AUGUST 2009

Bow Wow-ing for Books Who? Who? Who Let The Dogs Madison, Reece, Dylan, Graham, Sam with Hero (the Rottie) celebrate reading.

Children find reading to an animal less intimidating...

by Heddie Leger

L

istening is a skill that demands awareness. We must be open to learning by listening. Successful communication requires not only our mouths, but also our ears. This is what makes dogs such good partners for children learning to read, or struggling to practice reading skills.

Humans and dogs have lived together for approximately 15,000 years. We have learned from each other by watching and listening. We have teamed up to assist one another in survival through the centuries. The interactions have changed through the years according to cultural or societal needs. The last great cultural shift for dogs has come as our society shifted from one of working on the farm or assisting in hunting for food, to one of animals as companions. A new status has evolved for the partnership of humans and dogs. Our society now needs dogs to serve in capacities that assist us with health, safety and education. The dog is remarkably adaptable and research is proving the value of dogs in these venues.

THE R.E.A.D. PROGRAM One such venue is the Reading Education Assistance Dog (R.E.A.D.) program developed by Intermountain Therapy Animals in 1999. There are many scientific studies that validate the physiological benefits to 6

MetroPet Magazine • J ULY / AUGUST 2009

In?

interacting with animals, including increased relaxation and lower blood pressure. Children find reading to an animal less intimidating. It can transform a dreaded experience into a positive environment in which reading is fun and learning is facilitated. The beneficial results are because the dog is an expert listener with unconditional acceptance. The child does not fear being judged and receives immediate positive reinforcement in the form of petting the dog.

LITERACY ISSUES IN AMERICA The challenges facing our society regarding literacy are monumental. The American Library Association estimates there are more than 27 million functionally illiterate adults in the United States. Teaching children the skills of reading, while very important, is not enough.

Leading children to LIKE to read is equally important.

Reading experts know that children’s difficulties with reading often cause a vicious cycle where they practice less, fail to gain confidence and fluency, and despise reading all the more. The National Research Council, in a landmark study resolved that children who have consistent access to books and reading outside the classroom perform better in school than those who don’t.

WHAT IS R.E.A.D.?

R.E.A.D. is a program that improves children’s reading and communication skills by using a powerful method: reading to a dog. Today there are hundreds of volunteer teams going to schools, libraries, health care facilities, youth detention facilities, domestic violence shelters, preschools, before/after school programs, and Continued on page 8 --> other settings.

WHY DOGS? Learning to read is not only about acquiring new skills but also overcoming fears.

When a R.E.A.D. dog is listening, a magical moment is created. The child’s dread is transformed into eager anticipation, understanding is increased, vocabulary is built while fluency and comprehension are gained.

LEARN MORE ABOUT R.E.A.D. PROGRAMS OR BECOME A REGISTERED TEAM:

WHAT DOES A HIGH QUALITY R.E.A.D.ING THERAPY TEAM OFFER?

The key to success in this type of therapy work is focusing questions to the dog, instead of targeting the child and putting pressure on them.

This nonjudgmental, unconditional acceptance will keep the child from getting a mind block from fear and helps keep interactions flowing. It helps the child develop confidence Helma Hawkins, Director of Children’s Services, and self-esteem because the child Kansas City Public Library R.E.A.D. Program sees themselves as helping the dog.

This frame of mind makes the inter816-701-3540 • Helmahawkins@kclibrary.org actions lighthearted and enjoyable for the child.

Each moment is a teachable moment and can help build respect for books, demonstrate proper care and hygiene for the child and animal, and offer the opportunity to talk about safety around animals. www.deltasociety.org www.rechai.missouri.edu www.therapyanimals.org/read/ www.librarydogs.com www.dogscouts.com www.kcpetsforlife.com www.mo-kanpetpartners.org

Faith with Hero (the Rottie) and Tanner with Megan (the Schnauzer).

WHAT ARE THE PREREQUISITES TO BECOME A R.E.A.D. THERAPY TEAM? All participating volunteers and their canine partner must be registered teams which have been screened, tested and qualified in temperament and skills to provide animal assisted therapy.

This is important to the health and safety of the children and protects you and your animal.

HOW CAN I PREPARE MY ANIMAL ONCE THEY ARE REGISTERED AS A THERAPY ANIMAL? You can simulate the setting by reading aloud to your dog at home on the floor with a space definer (rug, blanket, etc) so they can acclimate to what they will experience. Practice this same skill at other locations (a park, your back yard, etc.) so that your animal can become accustomed to distractions.

Additional commands which are helpful include: Look, Listen, Paw Stay, Carry the Book, Pick Up The Book.

Heddie Leger’s passion for animals began as a country girl in Pennsylvania. Her first dog came from a dumpster at school. She is a Certified Humane Education Specialist; and member of the Association of Professional Humane Educators; Registered R.E.A.D. Team; a Delta Society Licensed Instructor and Evaluator; AKC Public Education Ambassador/Canine Good Citizen Evaluator; Professional Pet Sitters Association; Pets for Life and HARRT Search; Rescue and Recovery. She and her husband own The PawZone Pet Sitting. She can be reached at pawzone@yahoo.com.

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TOP 10 REASONS Why Your Dog’s Grooming Costs More than Your Haircut 10. Your hairdresser doesn’t wash and clean your rear end.

9. You don’t go for 6-8 weeks without washing or brushing your hair.

8. Your hairdresser doesn’t have to give you a sanitary trim.

7. Your hairdresser doesn’t have to clean inside your ears.

6. Your hairdresser doesn’t have to clean boogies from your eyes.

5. You sit still for your hairdresser.

4. Your haircut doesn’t include a manicure or pedicure.

3. Your hairdresser only washes and cuts the hair on your head.

2. You don’t bite or scratch your hairdresser. (I hope not anyway).

And the Number 1 reason your dog’s haircut costs more than yours: 1. The likelihood of you pooping or peeing while your hair is being cut is extremely slim!

SUMMER TREAT TIPS Your dog will love them!

Next time you have left-overs from the BBQ grill, cut them up into small chunks and freeze them in ice cubes. Give them as a treat on a hot day. Grilled hamburger or hot dogs cut up or, chicken or ribs de-boned and cut up make good treats. You could put several small chunks into a bowl and freeze it for an ice dog lick that will turn into a dog slushy on a sunny day. To make it fun and colorful, you could also freeze left-over veggies as well: green beans, carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli are good choices (avoid corn).

J ULY / AUGUST 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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Canine Signs

Cancer (June 22 - July 22)

The Home-Lover The Cancer Dog is a contrary dog who has close links to the sea and the tides. Thus, this canine is likely to jump into water at every given opportunity. The Cancer Dog is something of an “up and down” type of creature with a strong determination to “stay put.” Indeed this dog is probably the most patient and tenacious of the entire Zodiac.

Taurus (Apr. 20 - May 20)

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22)

The Strong Silent Type A lethargic and sometimes lazy soul, this canine would much rather sleep than run around. They truly appreciates a comfortable bed, complete with super-soft blankets and also loves to be pampered. This canine is not particularly big on exercise and should not be expected to run over the hill and through the woods...indeed, they probably wont even want to run around the yard.

The Boss-Dog The Leo Dog possesses a strong constitution with a mind to match but, if anything does go awry, then it will most likely be connected with the spine. An owner should take great care to avoid any strain on this area of the Leo Dog’s body.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21) The Yapper the minute the Gemini Dog is asked to undertake anything boring or mundane, he or she will be overcome by nervous exhaustion and collapse into a shivering, twitching, hyperventilating wreck. A puppy governed by Gemini is sure to bring chaos into any home.

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Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) The Helper The Virgo Dog considers being told what to do as a pleasure...it also saves him or her the trouble of having to think up something. There will be no unpleasant surprises for an owner who returns home to the Virgo Dog since this canine is the cleanest and most hygienic of the Zodiac.

Physically, the Virgo Dog is strong and muscular but requires a lot of exercise when in good health.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) The Shop-Steward A large degree of affection is important to the Libra Dog and he or she will go to great lengths to display such feelings in the hope that the owner will reciprocate. This canine is not prone to being argumentative and, if tried sorely, will invariably become too frightened of upsetting an owner to show what he or she really feels.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) The Paragon the heart of this dog truly lies with his or her own kind and this canine is never more delighted than when he or she is running with the pack...albeit somewhat erratically. The happiest Aquarius Dog is one who has been given as much freedom as possible for this dog adores to be allowed off the leash.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) The Problem Dog This will be a restless dog...versatile, easily bored and totally unfathomable. This canine flits from one interest to another, unable to decide what he or she actually likes. The Sagittarius Dog experiences continual internal conflict with divided loyalties and a split personality.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 20) The Social Climber Unlike most other canines, this

dog understands that there must be authority if life is to be smooth and comfortable. The Capricorn Dog will accept that humans rule the roost and quickly adopt the role of a most obedient pet.

Aquarius (Jan. 21 - Feb. 18) The Friend They can easily be demanding when it comes to sought-after knowledge, but can be aggravatingly slow if an owner is trying to get from Point “A” to Point “B” in a hurry. Thorough, slow, deliberate and painstaking, the Aquarius Dog possesses a stubborn streak that is liable to drive even the mildest of owners quite crazy.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20) The Interpreter Deep inside, well beyond control, the Pisces Dog will be a good dog who truly desires to please. This will, at times, be quite obvious and lead to enjoyable experiences. However, in between, when this canine is annoying and inconsistent, things will not be so easy.

Aries (Mar. 21 - Apr. 19) Leader of the Pack On a visit to the countryside, he or she will soon be picking up a scent or acting as a trailblazer. The Aries Dog is prone to accidents since, by nature, this canine is reckless and daring.

Headaches are often a problem for this dog, as is sunstroke during the Summer months.

J ULY / AUGUST 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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When picking out your cat’s cuisine, consider what he would have eaten in the wild in combination with modern nutrition. For many domestic housecats, this means a low carbohydrate diet. The following feeding tips and strategies might be helpful in finding the right balance for your feline friend.

EVOLUTION OF A CAT’S DIET

Meeting the Evolutionary Needs of Your Cat Tips for Feeding Carnivore-Friendly Foods

by Dr. Sean Delaney, DVM, MS

C

ats by nature are carnivores with even stricter nutritional needs than dogs. In fact, the wrong diet for cats can lead to serious health issues or make certain conditions and diseases worse, including obesity, diabetes and kidney disease. Yet, many cat lovers are unaware of their feline companion’s need for optimal nutrition.

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As carnivores, the cat’s ancestral diet was predominantly supplied by meat with calories from protein and fat, but far fewer calories from carbohydrate. In the wild, these animals became locked into being carnivores, in turn giving up their ability to make certain readily-available dietary nutrients like taurine and vitamin A. This means they are not as metabolically flexible as omnivores, such as dogs or humans.

In their drive for protein, cats are really seeking the essential amino acids found in animal proteins. With up to almost two times the demand for these amino acids compared to dogs, cats require a higher protein diet to get all their essential amino acids.

ANCESTRAL DIET MEETS MODERN NUTRITION As cats became domesticated, their food sources also evolved. In the place of wild mice and small birds, cats have been introduced to dry kibble and canned pet foods. With the vast array of products on store shelves today, choosing the right cat food can be confusing.

Here are a few differences one can see on labels and packages of higher quality cat food • More species-specific meats, high or highest on the ingredient list — chicken, lamb, beef, turkey meal, herring meal, etc.

• Because animal protein is higher than plant protein in the essential amino acids that a cat needs, look for foods high in crude protein from animal sources.

• Foods that have been manufactured through “gentle processing.” These products are minimally processed to retain their natural nutrients and vitamins. (Overcooked proteins can form additional bonds with sugars in the foods, making the amino acids less available for use by the body.)

Since cats do not require dietary carbohydrates due to their body’s excellent ability to produce sugar from protein and fat, their nutritional needs can be well met through a

Another rising trend in the pet food market has been the raw food diet. low carbohydrate diet. However, in some circumstances cats benefit from a diet with more carbohydrate to enable less protein and/or fat to be fed, such as when a low carbohydrate diet is not well tolerated or is not preferred or during certain illnesses.

It is also important to note that there is no definitive correlation between low carbohydrate foods and no-grain foods.

No-grain diets were originally developed for use with pets that have grain allergies. While this niche market has grown phenomenally in the last few years, many pet parents don’t realize that no-grain formulas may still contain other nongrain carbohydrate sources at levels that are close to or comparable to higher carbohydrate grain-based cat foods.

diet as closely as possible through a basis of raw meats. However, these meals can be very time-consuming, costly and difficult to prepare, especially considering the potential dangers of bacterial contamination such as Salmonella as well as incomplete and unbalanced recipes. If you like the idea of feeding raw or home-cooked food, but prefer a safe, more convenient and cost-effective complete and balanced pet food, look for those which include fresh meats and fresh vegetables with no cereal grains. The products should include a high meat content, a low amount of carbohydrate and no-grain products. These options will Continued -->

LIFESTYLE CHOICE AND YOUR CAT’S DIET As more and more pet parents begin to incorporate their lifestyle choices into their pets’ diets, the concern of unbalanced nutrition grows. While cats can theoretically receive the appropriate amount of protein from plants higher in protein such as soy to create a vegetarian diet, the essential fatty acid, arachidonic acid, which is needed for normal reproduction is very difficult to meet without using some animal derived ingredient. Similarly, complete and balanced vegan diets are not possible for cats given the need for several other nutrients that are essentially only available from animal origins.

Another rising trend in the pet food market has been the raw food diet. A potentially healthful method of feeding that is rich in animal protein, the raw food diet attempts to mimic the ancestral J ULY / AUGUST 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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<-- Continued from 13

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MetroPet Magazine • J ULY / AUGUST 2009

provide your loved feline companions with a natural feeding alternative to a raw food diet.

SIGNS OF A HEALTHY CAT So how do you know if your cat is getting the right pet food? Below are a few outward indicators that can help pet parents know if their food is working.

• Coat Luster — Many nutritional deficiencies manifest themselves in a cat’s fur, decreasing its luster.

An overall healthy cat’s coat will have a nice sheen.

• Volume and Form of Feces — Stools should be firm, but more importantly the volume should be minimized. If volume increases significantly with a new food, then it might not be as digestible — costing you more money with less nutrient intake. With premium brands, you feed less because the formula contains more nutrients per cup or can, creating a cost-effective solution.

Eating is one of the great joys in any life, including a cat’s. Your animal should enjoy its food and readily finish her meal.

• Palatability — Eating is one of the great joys in any life, including a cat’s. Your animal should enjoy its food and readily finish her meal.

Other common factors to consider are the dynamics of a multi-cat household, unrelated health issues or a change in the family’s lifestyle. Before starting your pet on any new diets, always consult with your veterinarian.

A wholesome, natural pet food can play a very important role in your cat’s long, healthy life. Whatever diet you choose for your cat, make sure you make the most of your cat’s dining experience.

Sean Delaney, DVM, MS, Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, is a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and Chief Medical, Scientific and Nutrition Officer of Natura Pet Products, manufacturer of EVO, California Natural, Innova, Karma, HealthWise, and Mother Nature natural pet foods and treats. For more information, visit www.naturapet.com J ULY / AUGUST 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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On the Road Again At the end of the ride - Washington, DC.

by Mike Jones Editors Note: In the first issue of MetroPet Magazine, we chronicled a ride taken by General and his driver Mike. A year later, we wanted to update you on his most recent ride! This article includes the a three day ride to Los Angeles. General and Mike participated in the annual “Run for the Wall” ride which commemorates the military men and women still missing from the Vietnam and Korean Wars. The 10 day ride began on May 10, in Los Angeles, California and ended May 17 in Washington, D.C.

PRE-RIDE, MAY 9 General and I departed KC at 6:00 am and rode to Wichita and picked up 54 to Tucumcari. Not much to report. I should have dressed warmer. Note to self put on more clothes that can be removed as temps rise. Lots of wind. No photos from this leg as they are loaded into my personal memory.

PRE-RIDE, MAY 10 General and Wilson (the soceer ball look-alike from the movie Cast Away) rolled into Flagstaff and the sun was still very high in the sky 16

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In Hollywood on his favorite star’s star! so we pressed on to Kingman. Very nice little town.

Main drag with many hotel/motel and food establishments. We upgraded tonight and got a Best Western.

Part of General’s Ride Rewards card. Good thing we did not want to stay at the Motel 6 as it was on “FIRE” when we rolled into town. I must say it was very nice of the locals to put on a show for us when

we arrived, not many places will go all out like that!

This morning I stopped for breakfast at an IHOP. Guess what today was. Yes. Mothers Day. I had the honor of meeting some very nice folks that had been admiring the Harley and invited me to sit at their table. Having breakfast with those folks will be one of the many highlights of this trip. Very good conversation and company. Thank you Frank, Merrile and Brad.

entire trip, totaling almost 5,800 words, can be read online at the following links.

• http://www.examiner.com/x-11337-Kansas-City-Dogs-Examiner~y2009m6d8Generals-Run-a-canine-motorcycle-odyssey-part-1 • http://www.examiner.com/x-11337-Kansas-City-Dogs-Examiner~y2009m6d9Generals-Run-a-canine-motorcycle-odyssey-part-2 • http://www.examiner.com/x-11337-Kansas-City-Dogs-Examiner~y2009m6d10Generals-Run-a-canine-motorcycle-odyssey-part-3t

PRE-RIDE, MAY 11 General and I went to sleep last night in America and woke up in France. True story.

We went for breakfast in the hotel lobby and you will not believe who was there speaking fluent French. The HOG Chapter from Paris was in the United States on the Fly and Ride program. Who would-a-thought! One of the riders was asking me about some animal they saw that looked something like a squirrel but bigger. His broken English was a little difficult to get around but I finally figured out it was a prairie dog.

One small item I neglected from yesterdays’ post was that General and Wilson stood on a corner in Winslow, Arizona. Unfortunately they did not see a girl in a flatbed Ford slowing down to take a look!

We blew through the Mojave today and onto Hollywood Blvd. Wilson had his picture taken with about 200 stars. Bad part is I had to place him then pick him up and move onto the next one. General had his picture taken at Lassies and Rin Tin Tin’s star. We must have walked 3 miles, not good in riding boots.

Well the whole reason for being here is the Mission — the ride which starts tomorrow.

Those of you post Vietnam Veterans know what I speak of. This will always be an Honor for myself to help make sure our Government never forgets.

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J ULY / AUGUST 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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Dog Park Etiquette for you and your pet

• Constantly monitor your dog’s behavior during visits and be ready to remove your dog from the park (if someone is concerned about your dog’s play or you are concerned for your dog’s safety) • Don’t bring small children into the dogs’ play area (they could easily get knocked down during normal dog play or get severely injured very quickly if play turned rough or they spooked a dog) • Make sure there are enough human “dog guards” on duty before allowing your dog entry to the dog play area (there should be at least one person for every 2-3 dogs) • Avoid the use of treats and toys while around multiple dogs (to prevent dog conflicts) • Keep young puppies at home (under 4 months are not fully immunized, and some puppies are just too small or immature)

Be realistic about your dog’s personality as to whether she is a good dog park candidate...

by Pat Hennessy

DOGS • Must be healthy and current on vaccinations • Should respond to basic cues, such as “come,” “sit,” “stay” and “leave it” • Should exhibit good manners (no excessive barking, jumping on people or other dogs, mouthing, bullying, etc.)

• Should be relaxed and confident (fearful, reactive or aggressive dogs are not appropriate at off leash parks — consult an experienced animal behavior trainer to improve confidence)

PEOPLE • Bring your dog the first time during off-peak hours to familiarize him with the park and always observe dogs in the play area before letting your dog loose 18

MetroPet Magazine • J ULY / AUGUST 2009

• Be realistic about your dog’s personality as to whether she is a good dog park candidate, and if you observe your dog not getting along or not having fun she may just not like the off leash park experience • Remove the leash as soon as your dog enters the play area (remember the fight or flight response — leashes inhibit the flight ability and can trigger a fight reaction) • Be courteous to other people and their dogs (never discipline someone else’s dog, even if you have to break up a fight — remove your dog immediately for her safety and report any problems to park management) • Observe park rules and hours & clean up after your dog!

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.

Diet Tip Q A

What is a high quality diet?

There are many words used to classify pet food (and treats). Beware of terms like “all natural,” which can be misleading. Corn husks and meat by-products can be “all natural,” but you don’t want your dog or cat eating them. Holistic is another word that can be used to generalize the quality of food. The word “organic” does have meaning regarding production standards (restricted use of pesticides on vegetation and restricted use of growth hormones or antibiotics on livestock). The most important thing you can do is to read ingredient labels on pet food and treats and know what is best. Ideally you want a specified meat (lamb, chicken, duck, etc., which is better than meat meal), as your main ingredients, followed by vegetables and supplements. You want to avoid foods that contain by-products, glutens, added proteins, and BHA or BHT preservatives. If your dog or cat is not allergic to grains, then look for whole grains, such as oats or brown rice. There are also wonderful food supplements available, to add to your own protein sources, if your prefer making home cooked diets.

J ULY / AUGUST 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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DOG BITES ARE ON THE RISE

Animal Bites Controlling and Handling

by Suezanne Law

T

here are more than 70 million dogs in America — more than one in every three homes. That’s a lot of dogs. And according to the CDC, an American has a one in 50 chance of being bitten by a dog every year. All dogs have teeth; any dog can bite. © Pooch images and text, Suezanne Law.

In fact, dog bites are on the rise. Surveys show that 20 years ago, just over 500,000 people sought medical treatment as the result of a dog bite; by 1994 that number had risen to 800,000, despite the fact that the numbers of dogs in America increased by only 2% during that same time.

The vast majority of dog-bites involve kids and canines who are familiar with one another, often living within the same home. This unfortunate reality has lead to a plague of breed ban statutes which make the average citizen feel safe while doing little to address the real issue: dogs are animals who carry dangerous weapons in their mouths, and as such even the smallest of the species deserves the utmost respect.

HOW TO AVOID BITES? Much of the conflict can be easily avoided if humans would take one simple step: learn dog body-language and teach it to children. Careful attention to your dog’s

Friendly Dogs

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Posture/Muscle

Relaxed and neutral; neither lunging forward nor leaning back.

Eyes

Soft and squinty; the whites of the eyes should not be overly apparent.

Ears

Floppy and hanging loosely; neutral: neither pricked far forward nor pinned.

Mouth

Open and relaxed; teeth may be visible, but no effort is made to show them.

Tail

Wiggly or swinging loosely; neutral position: neither high nor tucked.

What you should do

If the dog is unaccompanied, leave him alone. If there is an adult present, ask if you may pet the dog. Move closer slowly and calmly. Allow the dog to sniff your hand (children should make a loose fist and curl the fingers under to allow the dog to sniff the top of the hand). If the dog still seems amenable to interacting, scratch him under the chin or on the chest.

MetroPet Magazine • J ULY / AUGUST 2009

body-language (body posture and muscle tension) and how the dog carries his eyes, ears, mouth, and tail, will help you to remain safe around dogs.

What follows is an introduction to the essential body-language signals our dogs use every day. Think of it as a doggie dictionary, a Labrador lexicon, a pooch primer: obviously unable to contain the entirety of canine language, it is meant to simply get the conversation started. Fluency is up to you.

WHAT TO DO ABOUT A DOG BITE? If a dog bites you or your child, assess the severity of the bite. If it is sever, go to the ER immediately. If you don’t go to the ER contact your doctor about getting a tetanus shot to prevent infection and illness.

TIPS TO PREVENT DOG BITES • Train your dog; socialize your dog; and consider dog obedience classes.

• If your dog bites or even snaps at someone, call a professional trainer or a behaviorist right away. A snap is only a bite that did not connect.

• Keep your dog in a confined or secure area. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

• Keep your dog under control. Don’t allow your child to take the dog for a walk unless he is mentally and physically ready.

• Never leave infants or young children alone with any dog.

• Obey all leash and licensing laws.

• Muzzle your dog if it is from a large, aggressive, a member of a fighting breed; doesn’t like children; gets scared easily; likes to fight other animals; etc.

• Make sure your pets have their vaccinations on the schedule recommended by your veterinarian.

• Make sure your dog is spayed or neutered.

• Never play aggressive games with your dog (e.g., wrestling).

• Learn more about your dog. What overexcites him or puts him on guard? Know his personal language, like barks, growls and whimpers. Learn to read his tail, eyes, ears and body posture.

TIPS FOR HANDLING BITES • Wash the wound gently with soap and water.

• Apply pressure with a clean towel to the injured area to stop bleeding.

• Apply a sterile bandage to the wound.

• Keep the injury elevated above the level of the heart to slow swelling and prevent infection.

• Report the incident to the proper authority in your community (for example, the animal control office or the police).

• Apply antibiotic ointment to the area twice daily until it heals.

Anxious Dogs Posture/Muscle

Tense and low; pushing away, seeking to increase the distance between you.

Eyes

Wide open; darting from side to side searching for an escape route.

Ears

Tense and held tightly to the sides of the dog’s head; pinned.

Mouth

Clamped tightly shut; occasional snake-like movements of the tongue.

Tail

Tense and tucked tightly to (or under) the body.

What you should do

Remember that anxious dogs can be quite prone to biting. Never approach an anxious dog. Allow the dog to come to you if he wants interaction, but don’t try to reach towards him or pet him. Make all of your movements slow and calm so you don’t further frighten the dog.

Move away slowly when it’s time to go.

Threatening Dogs

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Posture/Muscle

Stiff and alert; leaning or lunging forward, taking up space.

Eyes

Hard and staring; large crescent-shaped portions of white visible.

Ears

Stiff and pricked far forward; alert.

Mouth

Puckered, often with teeth showing.

Tail

High and stiff; may be swinging with a ticktock motion, but not wagging.

What you should do

Threatening dogs of any size are dangerous. Move slowly away from the dog if you can (children should “be a tree” or “be a rock” rather than moving away if the dog is loose; see www.doggonesafe.com for more information). Avoid making eye contact with the dog, but do watch him as you go. Yell, but don’t scream, for help if needed.

Ask the Vet Are fleas bothering you and your pet?

by Michelle Chappell, DVM, CVA

Sentinel is a once a month heartworm pill that includes the flea birth control. Since it doesn’t weed out the weak fleas, but prevents eggs from hatching, there haven’t been reports of fleas becoming resistant to this medication. No topical chemical is good for people that touching the fur, too.

GREEN CHEMISTRY There is another new medication called Comfortis that is also a monthly tablet. It is made from a by-product of rum distillation and won a “green chemistry” award — safe enough that organic avocado farmers can use it on their trees.

HERBAL SPRAYS Finally, there are many helpful topical herbal sprays for dogs (make sure safe for cats before using these!!) and diatomaceous earth powder that can be sprinkled on the coat and in the carpet and outdoors. This powder makes tiny cuts in the flea’s outer shell and they dehydrate and die. These last treatments seem to work best in mild infestations.

You can reach Dr. Michelle Chappell, at Mariposa Veterinary Center, by calling 913-825-3330, or by visiting mariposavet.com.

Q

A

The flea drops that I had been using don’t seem to be working well. What else can be done to control these fleas?

Over time, many flea populations are less susceptible to the insecticides that once were so effective. The over the counter pyrethrin based flea drops have even increased in their chemical concentration, and still the fleas survive.

Even worse, these higher concentrations are making many pets sick and for some cats, can even be fatal if the dog formulas are used by accident.

OTHER SOLUTIONS Fortunately there are still solutions, some of them much less toxic, too! Since most of the flea population is actually the eggs and larvae and pupae in the environment — taking care of this area is critical. Vacuuming daily will kill adult fleas and remove some larvae and eggs. Using borax powder on the carpet will dehydrate the eggs and larvae and kill them, too. But, since nothing can kill the fleas in the pupae (cocoon stage), there is still the problem with preventing fleas from laying eggs in the first place!

FLEA BIRTH CONTROL There are two ways to do that — kill the adult fleas before they lay eggs or give them flea “birth control” so they can’t fill up the house and the yard with eggs and new fleas.

Greetings and Salutations To Greet or Not to Greet?

by Pat Hennessy

S

ummer is here. Even though it is hot outside, you can still get outside and enjoy the season.

Getting out and about is good for the body and soul. Feeling the breeze in your face and the “sunshine on your shoulders” will make you happy (thanks Mr. Denver for the reminder). So why not take the little sunshine of your life with you? Your animal companion finds the same benefit as you — fresh air (there are more pollutants inside your home than outside), and sunlight (purest source of vitamin D).

NEW WALKING GROUNDS Decisions, decisions — you may want to try a new place so your canine companion can experience the smells and sensations that only she can revel in, while you enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Our dogs assess everything muzzle-first, and brilliant noses they have indeed. Trees, lampposts and fire hydrants are an olfactory banquet to our dogs. It is the equivalent of reading People magazine. They know who came by and left their mark, by sex and status. For all we 24

MetroPet Magazine • J ULY / AUGUST 2009

know they may even tell all the other dogs in the neighborhood. A comedian summed it up with, “My dog is half pit-bull, half poodle. Not much of a watchdog, but a vicious gossip.”

THROUGH THE WOODS WE GO! Ok, so you and Greta hop in the car and take off. There is a lovely walking trail that takes you down by the creek and ends at the park. What a beautiful day. You are walking along and you see a man and his large breed dog walking toward you. His dog is pulling and excited as he sees you and Greta coming their way. The question of the day is — to greet or not to greet? You may know that your dog is good around other dogs, but you don’t know the social skills of the oncoming dog. You don’t want to put your dog in harm’s way. It is important that you show leadership, giving the other dog plenty of space, standing in front of your own dog (to body block if necessary), and being prepared to move your dog out of the situation if it looks threatening. As the other dog approaches, observe the body language — looking at head and tail carriage

(relaxed and up or forward and stern), eye dogs (during off hours), and get to contact (soft or hard stare), posture (relaxed or stiff). Ask the If you choose to let them person, before the dog approachgreet, never let your guard es, if the dog is good with other dogs (the term friendly can be down and keep an eye on their interpreted too many ways). If you body language the entire time choose to let them greet, never let because the situation could your guard down and keep an eye change in an instant. on their body language the entire time because the situation could change in an instant. As the leader it is your responsibility to protect your dog. The other person may think their dog is “friendly”, but often a dog on leash may become intimidated and the normal response would be fight or flight. For a dog on leash, flight is no longer an option so he may feel that fight is the only alternative.

know the dogs that participate. It is not a time for you to socialize or relax, because if you are chatting or reading a book then you are not watching your dog. The ideal off leash dog park would be enclosed and have a set of rules which would include appropriate etiquette for both human and canine members. You and your dog want to have fun — so let the good times roll.

Stay safe and have a great summer!

BREAK FOR HYDRATION The greeting went just fine and you work your way along the trail. You stop at the park bench to give Greta a drink and rest for a moment. Hydration is always an important part of exercise, especially during warmer weather. Moving right along as you pass the old statue and turn the corner, you encounter a couple of Canadian geese. Greta has a heyday with that, and it gives you the opportunity to test her cues “leave it,” and reward her for not only responding to you but obeying the law, “those geese are protected little girl; let’s keep going.” Next thing you know, you have made your way to the park. “Oh wow,” Greta says with her ears up and tail wagging. “Can I run and play, Mommy? Can I?” More decisions — should I really let her off leash? There are pros and cons to the off leash dog parks. While your dog can exercise her body and her socialization skills, she can also get injured physically and/or emotionally.

There are no life guards on duty. That means, once again, you have to show your leadership and monitor every move she makes as well as any moves made toward her. It may sound like an overprotective parent, but you wouldn’t let your child jump into the pool without watching or being in the pool with her.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT TIME TO GO If you are going to attend off leash dog parks, it is best to go when there are fewer J ULY / AUGUST 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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Feline Signs

Cancer (June 22 - July 22) The Crazy Cat

Motivated by the Moon, the life of the Cancer Cat will be one long chapter of accidents which eat into his or her quota of lives. Extreme stress or too much over-excitement will quickly lead to physical collapse and few Cancer Cats live to old age. Relationship with the home is of vital importance to this feline... something an owner must never forget.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22)

The Earth Mother This cat’s sraightforward approach to life will be easy to understand.

The Taurus Cat is steady and dependable... always where the owner expects this cat to be and doing what is expected of him or her. In short, the Taurus Cat is a creature of habit and routine who will never... ever... do anything unpredictable and to whom catnaps are the breath of life.

The Top Cat The Leo Cat often fares well in the show ring, frequently blessed with long hair and exceptionally beautiful features... particularly the Persian varieties. This cat is usually a healthy and well-adjusted creature. However, perfection is rare... even in the Leo Cat... and the flaw associated with this feline will be a weak back.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21) Cat On A Hot Tin Roof It is not often that the feline species will obey a human command, but many Gemini Cats seem to be the exception.

Being the most communicative Sign of the Zodiac, these felines appear to actually understand the human language and may even “meow” back as if in answer.

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Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) The Kitten Cat However, laziness annoys this feline more than anything and any owner who is not up with the birds, preparing breakfast for the Virgo Cat, will be left in no doubt as to what this feline thinks of such slovenly behavior.

Physically, the Virgo Cat possesses an intelligent yet critical expression which can create a dismal appearance.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22)

Aquarius (Jan. 21 - Feb. 18)

The Copy-Cat Such studious dedication will be daunting in one so young, as this tiny feline devotes hours to careful observations and practice. Most owners soon become accustomed to watching tiny, four-legged images of themselves walk around, but a few never come to terms with the idea.

The Hip Cat Very independent and, at heart, a loner, this feline is infamous for being more than a little eccentric... often preferring chocolate to fish, choosing to sleep in the dog’s basket, or even displaying great enjoyment in taking a bath.

If permitted, the Aquarius Cat will spend hours exploring nature.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21)

Pisces (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20)

The Cat’s Pajamas The Scorpio Cat likes to crawl around inside of objects... such as boxes and cabinets... and, being a born hunter, adores being outside. A Scorpio Cat usually does best with a Scorpio owner.

The Ship’s Cat Sensitive and blessed with the ability to see inside the souls of others, the Pisces Cat can be kind, gentle, understanding, aware and able to adjust to almost any given situation. Physically, this feline is usually insignificant in appearance, so small that he or she will hardly be there at all and, when it is possible to see through the thin, soft fur, there will be a pallid and uninteresting complexion.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) The Stable Cat He or she will be a popular, if aloof, feline who frequently refuses to mix with the “common” type of cat found in the wrong neighborhood. This feline holds his or her tail high in the face of evil and finds good in almost every aspect of life.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan 20) The Cat Burglar Constantly hopeful of improving the personal standard of living, however, there is always a strong chance that this cat will move out of his or her present home in order to assume residence in a more affluent household.

Aries (Mar. 21 - Apr. 19) The Stray Cat A temperamental and active creature, the Aries Cat is the most exasperating of the Zodiac, whose impact is formidable as he or she rushes through life, leaving a trail of demented impressions behind. This intrepid and adventurous soul is constantly busy and considers the world to be full of new horizons... all within the reach of the Aries Cat.

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Ask the Groomer Lessons in brushing

by Cheryl Wyrick

Q A

Do mats hurt?

I have been asked repeatedly… Do mats hurt?

A mat is a mass of hair that is densely tangled or interwoven together. This is usually the result of insufficient brushing. If you had a little girl with long hair, could she go a week to a pain. In my salon, we will month without brushing her hair? How A mat is a mass of hair try to detangle only until it would it feel to have tangles all over your body? It feels like tight ponytails. I that is densely tangled or is apparent it causes pain.

Then it must be clipped believe it does hurt. It hurts when we interwoven together with electric clippers. The try to brush the tangles out. Most proclipper blades will not fessional groomers have a policy in magically cut “through” the mat.

It clips underneath the mat. place to avoid pain. We love animals and do not The length of hair that is left is determined by the tightness of want to be the one to cause any stress or physical the mat. If you wash a pet with a mat, the soap and water will make it tighter. If your pet is severely matted, there is a risk of If you had a little girl with injury when we have to “chisel” the hair off. Sometimes there long hair, could she go a are sores under the mats that don’t get exposed until the hair is taken off. It must be dealt with before the bath. Clients say they week to a month without want a longer style of cut but the dog is matted. What do we do? brushing her hair?

I try to educate owners and explain we have a limited amount of choices. A shorter haircut might be the only choice or a preventative for matting later, especially if the owner isn’t able to brush the pet daily. In our busy schedules it is more realistic to choose a style of cut to meet your needs, not necessarily for beauty. Try to communicate with your groomer as to what your abilities and your priorities are. When getting a new pet, do your research, and ask your Groomer if a particular breed is high maintenance. Most breeds with long hair need daily brushing and professional grooming monthly. Be wise and choose what is appropriate for your household and income.

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

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Health Tip Q A

How does a light massage, or gentle touch, provide health benefits?

Doing some gentle massage, TTouch, or slow stroking down your pet’s body (through the fur where you can feel the skin), gives you baseline information about your companion animal. You will notice any reaction to being touched in a certain area, you might feel a warm or cool spot, you may feel a change in the texture of the fur, and you would certainly find any unusual skin surfaces such as lumps, cuts, or even ticks (yes, it’s that time of year).

Anything you find can be observed for changes or reported to your veterinarian for further investigation if it is suspicious. For women, it would be comparable to doing breast self-exams. You can turn this process into a daily or weekly relaxation and bonding experience, even adding some meditation, and it will bring health benefits to both of you.

J ULY / AUGUST 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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Barks from Broadway Shelter Dogs Find New Lives as Show Dogs

by Whitney Bodenstab

B

roadway: bright lights, powerful music, skilled dancing, elaborate sets, beautiful costumes! And rescued canines?

Yes! Broadway musicals have provided a new platform for rescued dogs to strut their stuff and prove their intelligent and willing dispositions.

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MetroPet Magazine • J ULY / AUGUST 2009

Edison, the dog, on stage with Caractacus Potts and his children Jeremy and Jemima. Photo: Ian Ibbetson.

BROADWAY COMES TO STARLIGHT Two national touring Broadway musicals, making stops at Starlight Theatre in Kansas City this summer, feature rescue dogs that have been trained to perform on stage each night in front of thousands of adoring fans.

The national tour of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang travels with 13 performing dogs aboard a custom tour bus. The show stops at Starlight Theatre for six performances July 28 - August 2. All 13 dogs were rescued and trained by Wilson Productions, a family operation in Gibsonton, Fla.

THE STARS OF THE SHOW When it became known that the Wilson family loved dogs and had a hard time turning away those that were unwanted, word spread quickly. Soon, people were leaving dogs at their doorstep. The Wilsons learned quickly how expensive it was to care for all of those rescued pets. Luckily, the family had experience with training show dogs, so they decided to train the rescued canines and, in essence, allow the dogs to “pay their own way.”

While owner Joanne Wilson hails from Florida, she boasts some Kansas City ties. As children, she and her siblings stayed at her grandparents’ home at Lake Lotawana during the school year, before traveling with her parents and the circus during the summer months. She also performed as an aerialist for more than a decade in the annual Shrine circus that stopped in Kansas City. In 1971, she trained six dogs and a pony for an act with the circus and, ever since, she’s applied her love of performance to training animals for new productions.

A CASTING CALL FOR RESCUES One favorite on the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang tour is Samantha, a 7-year-old sheepdog mix. Taken in as an unwanted pet by the Wilson’s veterinarian, Samantha was adopted at only seven months old and grew to become a beloved star. Lucky, another pup in Chitty, wandered up to the Wilson’s trailer from the desert at a Palm Springs, CA, campground.

The New York Broadway run of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang also featured a “pack” of dogs, but those rescued canines were trained by the famous William Berloni. Given specific details about the type of dogs to be cast in the show, he searched shelters and humane societies all along the East Coast for the potential stars. With encouragement from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang producers, Berloni even held an open casting call for shelter dogs. “My dream of letting the world know shelter dogs were worthwhile was coming true,” he said of the casting call event in his book, Broadway Tails. The show was a big success for Berloni — and his eight dogs.

A CHANCE TO MAKE IT BIG Over the years, Berloni has trained many animals for Broadway productions, movies and commercials. His first training experience was with Sandy in the original Broadway production of Annie. An aspiring actor, Berlonia was given the chance to be involved with a blooming production. That “chance” came in his assignment to find a dog — and train it for the stage. He searched many pounds and humane societies for the ideal dog and, eventually, found the perfect Sandy. Along his journey, he saw some very poor shelter conditions and vowed to rescue more dogs from shelters in the future. Berloni, however, did not yet know that rescuing and training animals would become his career.

Some of Berloni’s four-legged trainees recently came through Kansas City when the national tour of Legally Blonde The Musical opened Starlight Theatre’s 2009 Broadway season. Although this show only had four touring dogs, the furry characters had prominent roles in the plot.

BRUISER THE CHIHUAHUA Bruiser the Chihuahua, the lead character’s flashy companion, is featured in many of the J ULY / AUGUST 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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tour’s promotional materials and is the star of the tour’s official logo. Before Frankie’s Broadway job as Bruiser, he was rescued

by Berloni from a local animal shelter in Meriden, Conn. He is trained to bark five lines in the opening act alone and proves to be Elle Woods’ ideal companion when he performs a trick that helps her discover the key clue that leads to her first legal case win. China, an English Bulldog, plays the role of spunky hairdresser Paulette’s companion. China was rescued from an inhumane breeding situation in upstate New York.

Two canine understudies also travel with the Legally Blonde tour: Roxie and Nellie. Roxie was rescued as a stray in Louisiana, and Nellie was turned over to the Humane Society of New York after a family found a new baby and puppy too much to handle.

Both Wilson and Berloni apply the principles of positive reinforcement to train their dogs to perform, and both strongly encourage the act of rescuing homeless pets.

“Adopt an animal, and you may find your own star,” says Berloni in the very last line of his book, Broadway Tails.

To purchase tickets to see the dogs of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in action at Starlight Theatre, visit kcstarlight.com or call 816.363.STAR. For more information about the national tours of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang or Legally Blonde The Musical, visit their Web sites at chittyontour.com and legallyblondethemusical.com, respectively. For more information about Wilson Productions, visit wilsondogs.com. To learn about William Berloni and his book Broadway Tails, visit theatricalanimals.com.

M ETRO P ET R ESOURCE WHO? BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING WHERE? SHAWNEE, LEAWOOD, OVERLAND PARK, KANSAS CITY, RAYMORE • PHONE 816-554-4990 www.brookdaleliving.com

WHY ARE YOU DIFFERENT?

An important part of choosing a great Independent Living, PERSONALized Assisted Living, Long Term Care or Rehabilitation community is finding a comfortable lifestyle. Our Kansas City area Brookdale Senior Living communities will make you feel right at home. And, since they’re all pet-friendly, your feline and canine companions will feel the same way.

• Independent Living communities offer spacious apartments, vibrant activities and a wide range of services, along with abundant opportunities for socialization and participation.

This lifestyle is designed for those seeking active engagement on every level, with Exceptional Experience Every Day. • Assisted Living communities are designed for those who require some assistance with the activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing and help with medications, along with graduated levels of care as needed. We promise Respect for Individual Preferences.

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• Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care communities are overseen by a staff of trained professionals who provide care and activities for those with various forms of dementia and to ensure Daily Moments of Success. These purpose-built communities offer features to stimulate recognition and recall in a safe and secure environment.

• Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC’s) feature independent living as the predominant lifestyle component, but also offer multiple levels of care such as Personalized Assisted Living, Alzheimer’s and dementia care and skilled nursing.

• Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing communities are approved by Medicare. They are designed for those who require short term rehabilitation after a hospitalization for physical, occupational, and speech therapy, and nursing needs.

• Skilled Nursing Center communities are designed to assist with activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, eating, and monitoring of medications. We are committed to Respecting Your Choices with Compassion and Competence.

We have raised the bar to create a residence home instead of a See our ad on pg. 25 nursing home.

Upcoming Advertiser Events A Night at the Caberet Fri, July 17 7:30 pm Muehlebach Towers 12th & Baltimore Details: nmhpkc.com

MidWest Kids’ Fest Sat-Sun, July 25-26 Overland Park Int’l Trade Center Details: www.midwestkidsfest.com/

Too Cool To Drool Sat, Aug 29, Olathe, KS Benefits: Animal Haven Details: campbowwow.com/us/ks/olathe/

Westrope Big Dawg Open Event: Sept 9 Register: Aug 9 Ironhorse Golf Course Details: nmhpkc.com

Other Events MO-KAN Cat Club - Cat Show Sat-Sun, August 8-9 Overland Park Convention Center Details: mokancatclub.org/index.html Tails in the Trails Lenexa Sat, August 15, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Details: ci.lenexa.ks.us/parks/petfair.html Art Unleashed Benefits: Humane Society of Greater KC Fri, August 28, 7:00 - 10:00 pm Details: hsgkc.org/eventspage.html

Links to events at www.metropetmag.com

J ULY / AUGUST 2009 • MetroPetMag.com

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How Cute is Your Pet? Snap a photo of your cutie.

Submit the photo at metropetmag.com.

Your pet’s photo could land a spot on this page!

If your pet’s photo doesn’t make the magazine, check the website!

Sadie — I bought Sadie at Wayside Waifs in January. She is an adorable dog but very nervous of strangers due to being abused in previous homes. She is slowly trusting me and others as we take walks, go to training classes, and ride in the car together. I caught her relaxing on my back yard when I snapped her picture. Submitted by Barbara Whitcomb

Whiskers & Leo — Whiskers is 6, Leo is 6 months.

Whiskers wants to mother Leo, Leo would prefer to wrestle.

This is one of the rare times Whiskers agreed to play with him.

They had been swatting back and forth and I snapped the photo at the perfect moment! Submitted by Krisi Durden 34

MetroPet Magazine • J ULY / AUGUST 2009

Baby — Baby is extremely intelligent Nanday Conure. She is very social and has a great personality.

Baby is a big part of our family for almost 10 years. We love her very much! Submitted by Sabina Besic

Wally — I am a retiree who adopted Wally, an adorable 4 month old bundle of energy....ahhhhh! The Consumers Reports booklet was titled, Should I Eat This? Since chewing is a Wally specialty, he decided the answer was, “YES” he should eat it! He was pretty pleased with himself.

Submitted by Mary Lou Chaimers