ATASCADERO HAY & FEED
CHICK DAYS SATURDAY, MARCH 17 • 9AM-5PM
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HAY • STRAW • SHAVINGS • FEED • PET AND LIVESTOCK SUPPLIES 2 FEBRUARY 2012
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halt the LICKING habit Does your dog lick you too much? Stop excessive dog licking.
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‘licky’ dog can sometimes be a bit annoying, even if he or she has the best personality in the world. A licking habit can be disturbing for pet owners and guests, and constant licking is not good for the dog either. While licking may just be a habit that a dog develops over time, in some cases constant licking can be a sign of extreme boredom or mental problems. Dogs have a sense of taste that is hundreds of times greater than the sense of taste in human beings, and every dog uses their tongue from time to time to taste a questionable or interesting object. In most cases the question that needs to be answered is whether or not the object is edible. Licking is also a submissive gesture, and your dog may lick you from time to time as an ex-
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pression of affection and submissiveness. For some dogs, constant licking develops out of this natural habit of occasional licking to test objects and communicate with their owner. Continual licking in dogs may also develop as a result of ex-
treme boredom. Not unlike chewing one’s nails, constant licking may occur if a dog has nothing better to do. If the dog is not provided with a more interesting environment, the constant licking can lead to sores on the dog’s skin or health problems if the dog is
licking inedible materials. For some dogs, continual licking is a result of mental problems that were either inherited or which developed at some point in the dog’s life. Dogs that are especially nervous, or fearful due to bad experiences in the past, may constantly lick as a way of soothing themselves. A licking habit in a dog can be hard to break, but there are things that you can do to help your dog from developing this habit in the first place. If your dog has already developed a licking habit, there are measures that you can take to help your dog break this habit fast. If you notice that your dog is developing a licking habit, you will need to redirect your dog’s attention. Make sure that your dog has plenty of chewies and
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toys to play with, and increase your dog’s physical activities. When you see your dog licking, or your dog is trying to constantly lick you, give your dog something else to do immediately to prevent a licking habit from forming. If your dog seems to have a tendency to constantly lick itself or a specific object, try a lick repellent. A lick repellent can be a hot sauce or pepper sauce that you spray on objects your dog likes to lick. If your dog has a habit of licking its paws or other areas, then apply the lick repellent to these areas as well. Always dilute the hot sauce or pepper with water so that you do not burn your dog’s skin or tongue. You can also purchase over the counter lick repellent sprays that contain a bitter apple taste which dogs find particularly unpleasant.
FEBRUARY 2012
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You want the best for your pet… so do we!
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VETERINARY MEDICAL CENTER
SPECIALTY PET SUPPLY 8135 Morro Road, Atascadero Monday thru Friday 9am-6pm & Saturday 9am-3pm
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Dr. Brad Hollstien • Dr. Sharon Klintworth Dr. John Cheda • Dr. Brian Minor
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Right-Start Puppy Socialization Classes For puppies 8-18 weeks old, 4 week rotational program Instructor: Eileen Harnedy of Canine Academy Exposes your puppy to confidence building environments and enhances puppy’s socialization skills
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H
house RABBITS rule Living with a house rabbit
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erhaps you've just adopted your first rabbit, or maybe you already have a rabbit and would like more information to help you understand her better. The House Rabbit Society, a national nonprofit organization, recommends that you keep your rabbit in the house rather than outdoors. Rabbits are intelligent, social animals who need affection, and they can become wonderful companion animals if given a chance to interact with their human families.
The benefits of spay and neuter Although most rabbits will use a litterbox, hormones may cause unneutered males and unspayed females to "mark territory." Spaying or neutering your rabbit improves litterbox habits, lessens chewing behavior, decreases territorial aggression, and gives your rabbit a happier, longer life. Have your rabbit neutered between ages three-and-a-half to six months, depending on sexual maturity, by an experienced rabbit veterinarian. For rabbits more than two years old, get a veterinary checkup first.
Housetraining Rabbits may have free run of
the home. However, it's best for most—and necessary for some— to start with a cage. To make cage time learning time, fasten a litterbox in the corner of the cage that your rabbit chooses for a "bathroom." As soon as he uses the box consistently, you can give him some freedom. Place one or more large litterboxes in corners of the running area outside the cage. Use only positive reinforcement (treats and praise)—never punishment. Bunny-proofing Bunny-proofing your home is part of living with a house rabbit. It is natural for rabbits to chew on furniture, rugs, drapes, and, most deadly of all, electrical cords. Cords must be concealed so that the rabbit cannot reach them. Exposed cords can be encased in vinyl tubing (found at hardware stores). By splitting the tubing lengthwise with a utility knife the cord can be pushed inside it. Give your rabbit enough attention, safe chewables, and toys, so that she is distracted from chewing furniture and rugs. A cardboard box stuffed with hay makes an inexpensive playbox. Young rabbits (under a year) are more inclined to mischief and require more confinement and/or
bunny-proofing than mature rabbits. House rabbits and other animals House rabbits and indoor cats can get along fine, as do rabbits and well-mannered dogs. Dogs should be trained to respond to commands before being trusted with a free-running rabbit, and supervision is needed to control a dog's playful impulses (this is especially true for puppies). Adding a second rabbit is easiest if the rabbits are neutered adults of opposite sexes, and they are introduced for short periods in an area unfamiliar to both rabbits. Major Health Problems Intestinal blockages: Because rabbits groom themselves constantly, they get furballs just as cats do. Unlike cats, however, rabbits cannot vomit, and excessive swallowed hair may cause a fatal blockage. Rabbits can also develop a serious condition known as GI stasis which has many of the same symptoms. If your rabbit shows a decrease in appetite and in the size of droppings, get advice from a rabbit veterinarian. Prevention: keep bunny brushed (less hair is swallowed); provide
exercise time/space—at least 30 hours a week; give a fresh handful of hay daily; add fresh vegetables gradually to the diet; give petroleum laxatives during a heavy molt or if synthetics have been swallowed. Bacterial balance: A rabbit's digestive tract is inhabited by healthful bacteria. If the "good" bacteria balance is upset by stale food or a sudden change in diet, harmful bacteria can take over the digestive track and kill the rabbit. Prevention: Keep all rabbit food in a cool dry place and make dietary changes slowly, giving a new food in small amounts. If no abdominal gurgling or loose stool results in 24 hours, the food may be offered again. If your rabbit goes outside, check for pesticides and toxic plants. (A list is available from your local poison center.) Infectious bacteria: Many rabbit diseases are caused by bacteria, not viruses, and can be treated with antibiotics. If your rabbit shows symptoms of a "cold," take him to a veterinarian familiar with antibiotics that can be safely used in rabbits. Oral drugs of the Penicillin family, such as Amoxicillin, should NOT be given to a rabbit, since there is risk of destroying good intestinal bacteria.
Bunny Li HOUSING Roomy cage/home Resting board Litterbox Pellet bowl or feeder Water bottle/crock Toys (chew & toss) Pet carrier RUNNING SPACE Indoors: Bunny-proofed room(s) Litterbox Toys (chew & dig) Outdoors: Fenced patio/porch/playpen (with floor) CONSUMABLES Limited pellets daily Fresh water Barley/oats (small amounts) Wood (for chewing recreation) Multiple enzymes (digestive aid) Hay /straw (for fiber & chewing recreation) Fresh salad veggies/fruit (add gradually) Petroleum laxative (when needed for passing hair) GROOMING Flea comb Brush Flea products safe for rabbits (no Frontline!) Toenail clippers SUPPLIES Hand vacuum Newspapers Pooper scooper Whiskbroom/dustpan Dust-free litter (not wood shavings) White vinegar (for urine accidents) Chlorine bleach (for disinfecting)
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the HEAT is on North County Humane Society and 2012 Spay Day
Come celebrate with North Co. Humane Society! ANNUAL
Member Appreciation Luncheon & Silent Auction Saturday, March 24 12:00 noon - 3:00 pm Culinary Institute of Paso Robles, 1900 Golden Hills Road Enjoy lunch and meet the 2012 Board of Directors and NCHS Staff. Guest Speakers and Special Recognition of Volunteers, Supporters and Staff. Silent Benefit Auction, 50/50 Drawing and Door Prizes All proceeds benefit North County Humane Society. Tickets: $20 members and $25 non-members.
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t might seem that it’s been a very cold, dry winter here in the North County, but the truth is “The Heat Is On.” It’s breeding season for thousands of unaltered frisky felines. Two unaltered cats and their kittens can produce 420,000 more cats in seven years, and two unaltered dogs and their puppies can produce 67,000 more dogs in six years! Animal over population costs the taxpayers of this county thousands of dollars annually through Animal Control programs, simply because there are not enough good homes for healthy, adoptable animals. Spaying and neutering dogs and cats has been shown to drastically reduce dog and cat over population, saving countless animals from being euthanized. Many healthy spay and neutered, micro-chipped and loving felines are currently waiting to be adopted from North
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County Humane Society, Woods Humane Society, and The Department of Animal Services Tuesday, February 28, 2012 is World Spay Day. Let’s join together and shine a spotlight on North County as a real solution to the needless euthanasia of adoptable animals. For more information contact: North County Humane Society, 2300 Ramona Road, (805) 466-5403 or visit online at: www.slonchs.org.
4TH ANNUAL
Blessing of the Animals Saturday, March 31 11:00 am - 2:00 pm North County Humane Society, 2300 Ramona Road in Atascadero All pets will receive a loving, personal blessing from an ordained clergy member. Pets will also be given a commemorative certificate of their "blessed" experience. All pets are welcome.
COMMUNITY
We invite you to take a more active role in the community by sharing information, pictures, events and your views on issues effecting everyone locally. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
NORTH COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY Cat Adoption Center (805) 466-5403 – 2300 Ramona Road, Atascadero – www.slonchs.org
LOCAL EVENTS FOR THE COMMUNITY CALENDAR PICTURES & PRESS RELEASES
news@pasoroblespress.com news@atascaderonews.com
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For more information about these events or the shelter, call Shelley at 466-5403 or email her at: shelley.nchs@gmail.com
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nasty FOXTAIL notes The season of danger grass is just around the corner…
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t seems innocent enough—a tall, slender grass topped with a spiky bristle that looks like wheatgrass: the Foxtail. There are several species of Foxtail, a grassy weed usually found only in states west of the Mississippi River. Unless you grew-up in the Western states, you may not know what a foxtail is or be unaware of the danger they pose to dogs. Foxtail grows in vacant lots, along the edges of lawns as weeds, and in the wild in big, open fields. There are different varieties that grow all around the United States. Foxtails grow rapidly during the winter/spring rains, and then dry out in the summer months. As foxtail grasses mature, a seed forms at the top of the stalk. The seed resembles a fox's tail, hence the name given to the grass. When dog owners talk about "foxtails," they are actually speaking of the seed portion of the foxtail grass. Once foxtail grasses dry out, the seed detaches easily and sticks readily to clothing and fur. The microscopic bristles get caught very easily in your sock or in a dog's coat. The barbed ends can pierce your pet's skin, working their way further and further in as the dog moves. The rest of the grass can fall away, but the bristle isn't coming out by itself. Foxtail seeds can enter a dog's body in a variety of ways and once they enter, they act like an animated fishhook: the seed continues to move forward through the dog’s body, and because of tiny barbs, cannot move backwards. Foxtails are the most common type of embedded foreign body to be taken out of dogs in the United States. It's most common for a foxtail seed to enter a dog's body through the skin, nose, ears, paws, genitals, and eyes. Cases have even been reported of foxtails being lodged in male dogs' urethra. One vet I spoke to mentioned how a foxtail seed found in a dog's lung was believed to have entered initially through the dog's paw! Foxtail seeds are tenacious, and can be deadly. Foxtail seeds are relatively small, so detecting them once they enter a dog's body can be difficult. Vets usually rely on telltale symptoms such as head-shaking, paw licking, swellings on the body, or sudden and continuous sneezing. Foxtail seeds in the ears, nose, and eyes are very
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seed has traveled, Your vet may need to remove the foxtail surgically and might prescribe antibiotics to avoid any infection. When a foxtail seed get into a dog's eye, they will usually paw at the eye and the eye will water. Even if you can see a foxtail lying under the eyelid, don't try to remove it yourself! There's a good chance that you may not get it all. Keep your dog from pawing at their eye and get to a vet immediately. If your dog gets a foxtail in their ear, they will usually shake their head violently. If you suspect a foxtail, get your dog to a vet immediately. The best way to handle foxtail problems is to prevent them or treat them early. To prevent foxtail injuries: • If possible, avoid foxtail infested areas – especially during the dry season. • Thoroughly brush and inspect your dog's coat if it has been romping through tall, mature grass. Run your hands over their coat and look for foxtails. Dogs with long hair are particularly susceptible to foxtail seeds. • Look into your dog's ears. If your dog has floppy ears, lift each ear and inspect. • Immediately examine your dogs paws (in-between toes and paw pads), neck (under the collar), tail/anus, and underarm areas after walks in areas with foxtails. Remove any foxtails that are sitting on the fur. • If you believe your dog has a foxtail seed lodged somewhere in its body, get to a vet IMMEDIATELY. The longer you wait, the deeper the foxtail will travel, the more damage it maydo, and the more difficult it will be to treat. serious and can ultimately be life-threatening if they are not treated promptly. If a foxtail seed has been inhaled and lodged in the nasal cavity, the dog will sneeze repeatedly and violently, sometimes even banging their nose on the floor with each sneeze in a futile attempt to dislodge the seed. It is often possible to sedate the animal, locate the seed with an otoscope, and remove it using special forceps, if rushed to the vet after the initial symptoms appear. If a foxtail seed is lodged in the paw or under the coat, a lump will usually form that is painful to touch. Depending on how deep the foxtail
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stop PARVO now! PARVO: Be Concerned and Conscientious Submitted by Ann Stacker, DVM PASO PETCARE VETERINARY HOSPITAL
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anine parvovirus is a serious, highly contagious, treatable, and PREVENTABLE disease! It is one of the major reasons why veterinarians provide specific recommendations for vaccinations and advise keeping puppies at home (and away from public places) until they’ve had their full series of puppy shots. The development of better vaccines combined with increased public education (with regard to the importance of vaccinating puppies) has reduced the incidence and severity of the disease; however, veterinarians, kennel owners, dog breeders, and shelters all dread the periodic outbreaks, such as has been recently reported by San Luis Obispo County Animal Services. It is often difficult to trace the origin of an outbreak because of the “incubation period” - the time between when a puppy has been exposed to the virus and when it becomes obviously ill. This period can be as short as 3 days or as long as 3 weeks. Another problem is virus “shedding” in the feces of recovered animals, which can go on for several months. Combined with the ability of the virus to remain infectious in the environment for an extended period, the disease often seems to come out of nowhere... The first signs of parvovirus infection may be mild and non-specific. Usually the puppy will stop eating and sleep more for a day or so before he becomes obviously
sick; the next phase is nausea and vomiting; then diarrhea - which quickly becomes voluminous and bloody. The entire progression can take place in as little as 12 to 24 hours, but more often over several days. The puppy quickly becomes dehydrated and the normal intestinal bacteria take advantage of the weakened state, multiplying and forming toxins which further debilitate the dog. Without medical help, most of these puppies will die; however, with aggressive therapy, survival rates approach 80-95%. Because the infectious agent is a virus, medical treatment is directed at supporting the puppy’s immune system until his body can get on top of the situation. Specific antiviral drugs are still extremely expensive, mostly experimental, and not generally used. The most important part of treatment is fluid balance and usually requires intravenous fluids; antibiotics are used to suppress the bacterial complications; and various anti-nausea medications are used to minimize fluid lost through vomiting and make the puppy more comfortable. The battle with the virus can last several days to a week or more – often getting worse before it gets better. Rarely, blood or plasma transfusions may be needed. While hospitalized, puppies are isolated in a special ward in most hospitals, and technicians must wear protective clothing and gloves, and step through a disinfectant foot bath before leaving the isolation ward to prevent spreading the disease. Any contaminated articles or areas are thoroughly cleaned with strong commercial disinfectants (or bleach solution) capable of killing the parvovirus. Once a puppy is stronger and able to hold down food and water, he can be maintained at home by the ow n e r.
Pups are sent home on antibiotics and bland diets, gradually transitioning back to regular puppy food. Even though the pup quickly returns to normal activity, owners are advised to continue to isolate their puppy for 1-2 months since his feces can potentially infect another dog. Owners are often concerned about bringing their puppy home to a contaminated environment and/or whether their other dogs are at risk. The recovering puppy will not become re-infected because his body is already protected by the same mechanisms that fought off the disease to begin with. A partially vaccinated dog should have a less severe case but still can become quite ill. Older dogs that have been vaccinated rarely develop the disease and if they do it is usually a very mild case. For unknown reasons, Dobermans, Rottweilers, and Pit Bulls are more susceptible to parvovirus and when we lose a patient it is almost always one of these breeds. The only prac-
tical disinfectant for home use is chlorine bleach diluted as 1 ounce to one quart of water. This will work for toys, bowls, bedding, etc. but will ruin carpets and landscapes – and probably still not completely eliminate the virus. Because of this, puppies that are not fully vaccinated, and probably any dog that is less than a year old, should not visit the contaminated house and yard for at least sixth months. It is also very important for owners to keep up on the pup’s vaccination series. Although he is now immune to parvovirus for at least a year (and possibly for life) the other components of the puppy vaccines need to be given on schedule. Puppies have recovered from Parvo and come back 3-4 weeks later with Distemper because the owner forgot to keep up on the puppy shots. Recovered puppies usually show no long term problems and should live a normal life. Remember: VACCINATIONS SAVE LIVES!
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THE BASSET HOUND Information collected from BASSET HOUND CLUB OF AMERICA, INC. www.basset-bhca.com
ORIGIN OF THE BASSET HOUND The Basset Hound is a long, low, scenting hound of French ancestry. His many admirers consider him to be among the most beautiful and unusual of all hounds, his dignified look owing in great part to a large, majestic head adorned with long, velvety ears, a wrinkled brow and dark, soulful eyes. The Basset Hound remains one of the most easily recognizable of all dog breeds. The Basset Hound originated in sixthcentury France, a country known for its many strains of hounds. Most strains had a tall version as well as a short-legged size under sixteen inches, which were called “basset” (bas in French means low-set). Both the Basset Hound and its long-legged cousin, the Bloodhound, are thought to be descendants of the famed St. Hubert hounds. St. Hubert, a churchman, was the patron saint of the hunt, who set out to develop a new strain of hound, which looked similar to today’s Bloodhound. Many authorities feel the Basset was a result of a
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and captivatingly clownish demeanor, the Basset Hound possesses great intelligence and what may often be viewed as stubbornness may more appropriately be attributed to an innate ingenuity. In fact, the Basset excels at getting his way, from “demanding” a tasty morsel at the table to hurling his hefty 65 pounds into your lap! His overly long body, short legs and delightful wrinkles become a kaleidoscope of amusing expressions, all cleverly orchestrated to win us over. And win us over he does. Gentle and sociable in nature, the easy-going Basset Hound is loyal to master and family, devoted to children and mild-mannered and friendly towards other animals.
mutation in the St. Hubert strain. This genetic deviation produced a short-legged, dwarfed hound, whose slower movement and low-set form was to prove useful for hunters on foot in search of small game. With his long ears helping to stir up the scent, packs of Bassets were used to drive small prey, such as rabbit and hare, from
dense undercover into open terrain where hunters could move in for the kill with spears, nets or clubs. The sport of pack hunting with Basset Hounds continues to this day in France and England. THE BASSET PERSONALITY Despite a deliberate, unhurried manner
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PERSONALITY & PHYSICAL TRAITS OF THE BASSET HOUND • Calm, good-natured and affectionate. Gets along well with people and other dogs and pets. Good with children. • Loves to be a lap dog. Not a good guard dog. • Sensitive and stubborn nature. A Basset takes punishment and reprimands to heart. Can be stubborn and conveniently “hard of hearing.” • Pack mentality. A single Basset may not do well left alone for long periods. For
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Nicknames: Origin: Weight: Height: Coat: Color:
Litter size: Life span:
working owners, the company of another dog is the next best thing to having you there. • A scent hound. The Basset was bred to trail game. His keen nose can lead him into dangerous situations such as the path of a speeding car or an unfenced swimming pool. The Basset is safest in a secure, enclosed area. • Relatively low activity level. Prone to obesity. Healthy, trim Bassets have good energy levels, but they are also content to snooze away the afternoon in a patch of warm sun. Although this laid back nature makes them desirable house pets, their weight must be kept in check. A daily walk with your Basset is recommended. • A large, hefty dog, possessing more bone for its size than any other breed of dog. Although Bassets are low to the ground, they are not small dogs, with most ranging from 50 to 65 pounds. The average person will have a difficult time lifting an adult Basset Hound. • A smooth-coated dog. A wash-and-wear dog who may be bathed as frequently as needed. Bassets are either tricolored (a combination of black, white and tan) or redand-white (a lighter red-and-white may be called lemon-and-white). Coat colors are distributed over the body in no particular pattern.
• Growing puppies have special needs. Until they are a year old, Basset puppies should not go up and down long flights of stairs or be allowed to jump on and off elevated objects such as couches, beds or porches. The joints of this heavy-boned breed are still forming and excessive stress or strain may cause permanent injury. After a year of age, these activities, within reason, are usually not harmful to your Basset. • Short legs may mean a needed boost! Many, but not all, sturdy, low-slung Basset Hounds may require assistance getting into a car. The unique, low-stationed Basset does not excel at jumping. • Long ears and droopy eyes need cleaning. Nails need trimming. The long ears of a Basset do not allow good circulation of air and are prone to infection. Owners should clean their dog’s ears once a week. The Basset’s droopy eyes should also be kept clean of debris and nails trimmed once or twice monthly.
DID YOU KNOW? Some historians believe George Washington owned Basset Hounds given to him by Lafayette after the American Revolution.1 In trailing ability, the accuracy of a Basset’s nose makes him second only to the Bloodhound.1 The foremost use of the Basset in the US is hunting rabbits.1 Because the Basset was originally bred to hunt in packs, they have retained a leisurely attitude towards other canines, which make them wonderful additions to multi-dog households.1 Even Shakespeare was impressed with the Basset Hound, describing them with this poetic image: “Ears which sweep away the morning dew.” Certainly an apt description! But, do you know the original reason for those long ears? The Basset was bred to hunt small game. Those long ears were developed to stir up and hold the scent long enough for their strong nose to inhale. The folds under the chin (the dewlap) aren’t there by accident, either. They also help trap and hold the scent, as do the wrinkles about the head and face. Their large feet make them steady, and their heavy bones make them sturdy. They may be more of an “ambler” than some other hunting breeds, but for most hunters on foot, their speed, or rather lack of it, is appreciated because it allows the hunter to closely follow on foot. Every inch of the Basset is a cleverly designed canine machine, developed to be a stable companion, whether in the field, by the hearth, or in the show ring.1 1
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Basset, Hush Puppy Great Britain, France Male: 55–75 lbs, Female 45–65 lbs Male 12–15”, Female 11–14” Smooth, short and close Generally black, white and tan (tri-color) or tan/lemon and white (bi-color); but any recognized hound color acceptable. 6–8 puppies Median 13–15 years
Land, B. (2006). The Basset Hound. New Jersey: TFH Publications, Inc.
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fido’s SCRAP habit
Locally O w n ed Operate & d
Always Low Pricing!
Is 'people food' so bad for dogs?
THE PET DEPARTMENT
Welcomes GROOMER LYNN GOODWIN to our Paso Robles store!
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s long as dog has been a companion to man, he has needed to be fed. If canines survived on scraps and bread before the advent of commercial dog foods, what's so bad about them enjoying some of those same foods now? The answer is not so cut and dry. There are some pet advocates who say that dogs should never be fed scraps, and only the balanced diet provided by a high-quality commercial dog food. However, these dog foods are often expensive and some may wonder how much of recommendation to use these products comes in the form of a financial kickback to those doing the recommending. There are others who say they feed their dogs nothing but homemade foods, some of which are uncooked.
NO SCRAPS Experts reason that pet owners do not always know which foods can be potentially toxic to the animals. Furthermore, many of the foods people eat today are overly processed and may contain preservatives that are unhealthy to us and also the dog. Finally, back in the era when dogs were fed scraps and were allowed to scavenge for carcasses, dogs were seen less as pet and more as work companions. Less care was put into dogs' diets because these animals did not have the long life spans they enjoy today. There's another thing to consider. Wild dogs were not nearly as overbred or carefully bred as they are today. Our designer dogs may not have the inherent intestinal systems to be able to handle the rich foods of human diets. Therefore, even a few bites of scraps -- especially to small toy breeds -- can result in stomach upset and unwelcome "presents" around the house.
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SCRAPS ARE FINE That isn't to say that all people food is bad. Instead of high-calorie dog biscuits, some vets recommend offering your pooch a baby carrot as a treat or a high-protein snack, like a piece of lean chicken. There are other vets and pet experts who swear by homemade dog food or even a raw diet. FOODS TO AVOID Should you choose to add some table foods to the pet bowl, be careful to select lean, lowcalorie items that are not over-processed or full of grease. That means to skip the cheese puffs and opt for a few slices of sirloin instead. Keep in mind that people food also tends to be soft, which can stick to the gumline of dogs and contribute to dental decay. So it should not be the sole form of food for dogs; they need some crunch bones and kibble, too. Also, there are some foods and beverages that dogs should never eat because they can cause illnesses or even poisoning. • Alcohol: It can cause coma and death. • Bones: From fish and poultry; they can splinter and lead to obstruction or laceration in the digestive system. • Chocolate, coffee, tea, etc.: Caffeine can be toxic to the heart and nervous system. • Fat: Trimmings of fat can cause pancreatitis. • Dairy: Some dogs may develop diarrhea if given dairy products. • Grapes, raisins and currants: These fruits can damage the kidneys. • Meats (raw): The same bacteria that can harm a person can make a dog ill. • Mushrooms: They may contain toxins that result in shock and death. • Onions and garlic: They contain components that can damage red blood cells and cause anemia.
We also have full service grooming from Renee, Margo and Sara at our Atascadero location. Call for an appointment today.
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Any purchase totaling $45.00 or more. Total before taxes. Excludes dog food.
Expires 3/15/12. Not valid with other offers. With coupon. THE PET DEPARTMENT 705 6th St., Paso Robles OR 5925 Entrada, Atascadero
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BLUE BUFFALO DOG FOOD $3.00 $5.00 or OFF OFF On 15# bag On 30# bag Expires 3/15/12. Not valid with other offers. With coupon. THE PET DEPARTMENT 705 6th St., Paso Robles OR 5925 Entrada, Atascadero
$ DOG FOOD
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29
40 lb bag
Expires 3/15/12. Not valid with other offers. With coupon. THE PET DEPARTMENT 705 6th St., Paso Robles OR 5925 Entrada, Atascadero
PASO ROBLES
ATASCADERO
705 6TH STREET (805) 239-4555
5925 ENTRADA (805) 460-0555
ACROSS FROM THE POST OFFICE
ONE BLOCK SOUTH OF THE CARLTON HOTEL
Pet Supplies • Locally Raised Puppies • Small Animals Exotic Pets • Birds & Reptiles • Fresh & Salt Water Fish Aquarium Maintenance • Full Service Dog & Cat Grooming
ultimate PET CARE guide
www.thepetdept.com FEBRUARY 2012 13
EALTH M H L A
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Make an appointment today to improve your pet’s smile!
25% OFF Dental Cleaning with current exam. expires 2/27/12.
Committed to providing for the health and well-being of your pets Intensive & Critical 24hr Care Digital X-Ray Ultrasound MRI Extensive Orthopedic & Soft Tissue Surgery Internal Medicine Dentistry Ophthalmology CT Scan
Serving the pets, people and veterinarians of the Central Coast
Full Service Veterinary Hospital with 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE
9575 El Camino Real, Atascadero 14 FEBRUARY 2012
805-466-3880 ultimate PET CARE guide
Aaron Schechter, DVM Jennifer Burke, DVM, CVA Ofer Cherbinsky, DVM David Edsall, DVM Matt Aaronian, DVM Marby Hambright, DVM April Bessett, DVM Robert Schechter, DVM, PHD Polina Vishkautsan, DVM, ACVIM
Visit us at: www.apetcenter.com
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fun FISH facts Fascinating facts about fish, large and small
Call for a tour!
SELF-SERVICE CORRAL COMING SOON!
F
ish as pets are common in homes around the world. Setting up an aquarium for home or office enjoyment can be a good way to create a focal point in the room. Watching fish in an aquarium is relaxing for people of all ages. Fish can live in fresh water, saltwater or a combination of both, and depending on the type of fish, can be a relatively easy pet to maintain.
• The clown fish has the ability to change its gender and sexual organs depending on what is needed to breed.
Types – Aquariums aren't just rectangular shape. Bow fronts, wave fronts and even octagon shapes create visual interest.
• Fish come in a vast array of colors and shapes, and range in size from microscopic creatures to gigantic organisms.
Size – Aquariums come in a huge variety of sizes, From a small pint sized betta bowl that can fit in a bathroom, to 100-plus gallon aquariums.
• Some fish swim backward, sideways and upside down. The Upside Down Catfish spends most of its time bellyup.
Heating – If the aquarium will be housing tropical fish, you need a heater for the aquarium. The submersible device can be purchased at different strengths, to accommodate your size of aquarium.
• Tropical fish are one of the most popular pets in the United States.
Accessories – Aquariums are usually covered with gravel on the bottom, and filled with plants, ceramic or plastic decorations, filtration systems, heaters and even automatic feeding devices. Location – Aquariums should be placed on aquarium stands that are built to handle
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the weight of a full aquarium. Avoid placing the aquarium in direct light. • Most aquarium fish are harvested from the wild in Africa, Asia and South America.
• Feed fish well, but don't overfeed. Some breeds resort to canibalism if there isn't a good food supply, and overfeeding can cause cloudy water. • Fish can taste without opening their mouths.
Vineyard Kennels Pet Resort is a unique, off-leash pet resort where every visit is custom designed. Located less than two miles from the Target Shopping Center in south Paso Robles, Vineyard Kennels offers 10,000 square feet of outdoor runs and climate controlled sleeping areas with many recess opportunities. Plush toddler beds and toys and the sophisticated Kuranda Sleeping Gear are available. Our guests can’t wait to be here and often lead the way to the front door. Before leaving, make sure to take advantage of our on-site grooming parlor (by appointment.)
All t overnighude l visits ince & D ayc ar s R e c es
Doggie Beds • Cat Condos • Spacious Clean Runs Grooming • Large Exercise Area • Doggie Day Care Service On-site Resident • Family Owned for 14 Years!
(805) 238-1330 330 Ambush Trail, Paso Robles (Off South Vine Street) For more information and directions, go to www.vineyardkennels.com Call to reserve space. Open 8am - 4pm, seven days a week (Closed 12-1pm for nap time) Proof of vaccinations required: Rabies, Distemper, Parvo and Bordetella.
Expanded Day Care Self Service 6am-8pm • Improper housing and nutrition is the most common form of mortality among pet fish.
The kennel that’s more like home!
ultimate PET CARE guide
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16 FEBRUARY 2012
ultimate PET CARE guide
Paso Robles Press | Atascadero News