Desert Pet Companion Magazine, Fall 2015

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR PET LOVERS

Complimentary Please Take A Copy!

Fall 2015

THE VALLEY’S MOST COMPLETE GUIDE TO

PET EVENTS! SEE PAGES 36-46

Giving Your Cat or Dog Pills Training Tips

• Child/Dog Etiquette • Stopping a Dog Fight

What Is Megaesophagus?

Cats and Constipation Savings on Business Services & Products ... and MORE!

Meet

Sprocket

The Wonder Dog

Published quarterly.

Fall (Sept.-Nov.) Winter (Dec.-Feb.) Spring (Mar.-May) Summer (June-Aug.) Publisher: Miriam Wiegel mwiegel@DesertPetCompanion.com Editor: Geoff Winstead editor@DesertPetCompanion.com Advertising Sales: sales@desertpetcompanion.com Printer: Publication Printers Corp. www.publicationprinters.com Distribution: Magazines are available at our advertisers’ locations or please visit our website or call the editorial office for a list of other locations where the magazine is available.

We provide veterinary services for every stage in your pet’s life, from her first shots to a lifetime of preventive care to keep her happy and healthy.

• Primary & Advanced Care • Preventive Care • Alternative Medicine We provide comprehensive veterinary care for your: Cats • Dogs • Pocket Pets Exotics • Rabbits • Reptiles

Pet Boarding & Grooming Available!

78-267 Highway 111, La Quinta (The Building In Front of Vons)

www.vcahospitals.com/all-creatures-ca

Cover photo Mark Davidson Photography Please see article on page 50.

FOLLOW US ON Editorial photos © fotolia.com unless otherwise noted.

Desert Pet Companion (DPC) and its publisher assume no responsibility for changes, omissions or errors contained in this publication. Advertising in Desert Pet Companion does not indicate an endorsement by Desert Pet Companion or its publisher. DPC assumes no responsibility for opinions of contributors nor do the opinions expressed by contributors necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the publisher. DPC is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photos, which must be accompanied by return postage and envelope. No part of Desert Pet Companion may be reprinted or copied without express, written permission. ©2015 www.DesertPetCompanion.com Desert Pet Companion is published by Desert Pet Companion Editorial Office: 760-835-0369

Desert Pet Companion, P.O. Box 378 Palm Springs, CA 92263

For Advertising Information call: 760-835-0369

Medicating Your Pet – and conditioning him or her to accept medication before it’s needed!

By Lillian M. Roberts, DVM Country Club Animal Clinic

A

t some point in the life of almost every pet, it will be necessary to give medication. This may be a short course of antibiotics for an infection, or a lifetime of pills for arthritis or some other chronic condition. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to explain to our pets why this is necessary. And when they already don’t feel well, they can be irritable, uncomfortable, unwilling to eat and suspicious of anything new. Luckily, there are many things you can do now to prepare your pet for the possible need to medicate later!

The tried-and-true form of medication is some form of what we know as “a pill.” This may be tablets, capsules, or some of the newer versions such as “caplets,” but what they all have in common is that they are hard, must be 4 Desert Pet Companion

swallowed, and frequently taste unpleasant. Some even dissolve quickly in a moist environment, leaving a sticky foul-tasting mush. So the goal is for it to spend as little time as possible in contact with the tongue!

The Hidden Pill Treat Approach

If your dog or cat readily takes treats without chewing, then your job will be easy. Simply wrap or coat the pill with something tasty and down she goes! Problem solved… unless it’s something like Carafate, which must contact the stomach surface directly, or certain liver supplements, which must be taken on an empty stomach.

So, this article is still for you! But you can skip the next few paragraphs.

For some dogs who are not familiar

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1

2

3

PHOTOS © HENRY MOORE JR. BCU/WSU

with treats, and especially for cats, it’s a good idea to introduce these things early when the pet is feeling normal.

I recommend Greenies™ Pill Pockets, but other pill delivery treats work fine, as do certain other treats that could be readily molded around a pill if needed.

Successful examples include peanut butter, liver sausage, canned cat or dog food, anchovies etc. In fact, it’s best to switch it around from time to time so you have options should one of these become unavailable for some reason. Introduce it as an occasional treat, or as a daily regimen. Use a word – “Treat,” “Goodie,” or “Yumyum” are words I’ve heard used often. This associates the experience of being given the treat with a sound that triggers anticipation of a good experience.

The association is more obvious with dogs, but if you use it regularly with cats, you’ll find they respond as well.

(They just may not always agree with your description… keep trying!)

For those pets who don’t take to treats right away, try this strategy: at meal time, when you are sure the pet is hungry and expecting food, offer the 6 Desert Pet Companion

treat first. Leave it down, and delay feeding the usual meal for a few minutes. Even if the treat isn’t consumed, leave it out awhile and keep trying every day. Use fresh treats each time.

Keep it up for weeks if necessary, but after several days if they still don’t take it, try switching to another flavor or consistency. Remember, there is no hurry, we’re just trying to condition the pet to new food items. These are more likely to be accepted if they are hungry and expecting food already.

Once the pet is readily taking treats, try new ones – new flavors of Pill Pockets, new small bites of human food, etc. In most cases, each new introduction takes less time to acceptance. Keep this up, and when the times comes there is an excellent chance you’ll be able to “pill” your pet by hiding the medicine inside a treat.

Important: when placing a pill inside a treat for a finicky pet, take care that the pill and the fingers you used on the pill DO NOT touch the outside of the treat! Dogs and cats have an amazingly keen sense of smell, and can detect minute particles on their food.

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Direct pill administration can be difficult to accomplish unless your pet is used to being handled. The photos at left, show one method of giving a long nosed breed a pill.

1. Hold the head using your non-dominant hand 2. Open the mouth 3. Hold the pill while using middle finger to open mouth 4. Push the pill over the back of the tongue using your index finger

4

Always use caution when trying to administer medication to your pet, if your pet seems antagonized, stop & try a different method.

Also, once you start introducing the pills, make sure the pet gets additional “free” treats – meaning without pills. I recommend a series of three, with the pill in the second one. The first whets the appetite, the second may feel “suspicious,” but the third beckons so they tend to gulp it down anyway.

Direct Administration

The preferred way of “pilling” a pet is the direct method. In pets who don’t gobble treats but rather dissect every morsel, or those who immediately detect the presence of a pill and won’t voluntarily take it, this may be the only way, and can usually be followed by giving a treat as a reward for taking it.

But for pets who aren’t on board with this practice, it can be a real chore.

The basic approach is to lift the upper jaw with your non-dominant hand (grip the cheekbones in a cat or flat-faced small dog). Holding the pill in thumb and forefinger of the dominant hand, use the middle finger to quickly open the mouth, pushing the pill over the back of the tongue with the index finger. While this sounds easy, it takes Fall 2015

coordination and requires a trusting pet. I have a few tricks to make this easier. This should NOT be attempted with pets who are prone to biting you! At the first sign of antagonism, immediately back off and try another approach!

Always have your pet used to being handled around the face and mouth. Start by rubbing very gently as close as they will allow, while you are otherwise relaxed and they expect petting. Work your way up to massaging the lips, gently touching around the eyes, ears, etc. Finally, when this is readily accepted, start rubbing the teeth and gums. Note, this same basic approach is used to condition pets to having their teeth brushed and ears or eyelids cleaned.

Practice on a stuffed animal, using fake “air” pills (obviously). You can get the basic movements down before actually trying it on your pet. Then move up to trying it on your actual pet, with your finger dipped in peanut butter or cheese, or something you know they like and can safely eat. The

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PHOTOS © HENRY MOORE JR. BCU/WSU

One method of administering a pill to a cat or flat faced dog is shown here.

Visit www.vetmed. wsu.edu/ClientED/ cat_meds.aspx to see larger versions of these images.

1

2

1. Hold the cat’s head from the top using your non-dominant hand. The cat’s cheek-bones provide a convenient handle by which to hold the head firmly without causing the cat any discomfort. 2. Tilt the head back and the cat will often drop its lower jaw open.

3

3 & 4. If your cat’s jaw doesn’t open automatically when you tilt its head, holding the pill between your thumb and index finger and use your middle finger to gently pull open the lower jaw. 5 & 6. Use index finger to keep jaw open while putting pill as far back on tongue as possible.

4

5 momentary presence of your finger in the back of the throat is unpleasant, so it’s important to praise the animal for putting up with it! But rest assured, their “gag reflex” is not nearly as sensitive as ours is! And the small pleasant taste you leave behind

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Always use caution when trying to administer medication to your pet. If your pet seems antagonized, stop & try a different method.

6 makes the experience more acceptable. In any case, never “grab/ shove/ let go” as this teaches the pet that something weird has just happened and they often run away feeling traumatized. Instead, pet, praise, and offer a treat if appropriate.

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Alternate Formulas

A number of medications are now available as injections, chewable tablets, liquids (both pleasant tasting and not so much), and can be compounded into melting tablets and even transdermal formulations. If you have a pet who is simply not going along with the plan, be sure to check with your vet about other options.

And finally, remember that your own health and safety MUST be considered above that of your pet! If you

© HENRY MOORE JR. BCU/WSU

There are a number of excellent videos on YouTube so you can see it being done. But preconditioning is half the battle!

Liquid medications are given in a pouch between the teeth and cheek.

don’t feel comfortable giving medication, don’t risk serious injury trying to do so. Every situation is different; your veterinarian can help you figure out the best option for you and your pet.

Dr. Lillian Roberts, DVM, is the owner of Country Club Animal Clinic, which is located at 36869 Cook Street, in Palm Desert. 760-776-7555 www.countryclubdvm.com

Raising Compassionate Pet Parents of Tomorrow Dr. Lori Friesen, piloted How Dogs Help Kids Read and Succeed in the Classroom in Palm Springs Unified School District in the fall of 2014 with 112 students. The results were so positive that it is now being considered for implementation in the entire district.

Friesen conceptualized and designed this program to help 2nd grade children become stronger, more motivated readers while learning safety PHOTO COURTESY LORI FRIESEN around dogs and compassion for them. Students learn how to become kind and responsible pet parents by naming and “fostering” a stuffed dog at school which they get to “adopt” and take home after the Doggone Awesome Reading Celebration and Adoption Ceremony. Each week, students learn important lessons such as how to meet a new dog safely, how to read a dog’s body language, how dogs and kids are similar and different, and behaviors that are okay and not okay around dogs. They also learn about what a “shelter dog” is and are encouraged to think about how they can make a difference for animals in their community. The children learn these new skills at school with their stuffed buddies and then go home and practice them while interacting with animals in their lives through weekly BoneWork (homework) challenges in partnership with their parents.

To learn more about how you can help implement this program in your child’s school, contact Dr. Lori Friesen by visiting her website at www.howdogshelpkids.com.

10 Desert Pet Companion

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“Paws & Hearts” Animal Assisted Therapy

Celebrates 15 years!

By Richard Waxman, Executive Director (and most importantly, Lucky, Scruffy and Maddie’s Dad)

A

s I sit here at my desk, trying to put into words what our 15½ year journey has been like, I am barraged with images: finding a little white poodle-terrier who I named “Lucky;” the nursing director from the old Valencia Palms who met Lucky and suggested I bring him down to his facility to visit the patients; my first call to The Desert Sun, asking if they wanted to do a cute article on Pet Therapy; and the overwhelming response to the story that led to our first few volunteers.

There were the presentations to all the long-term care facilities with Lucky in my arms to find out if they would like a therapy dog to make weekly visits,

and the interviews with 15½ years of potential 4-legged volunteers. Sadly, I also shared the loss of many of these amazing Canine Ambassadors with their 2-legged counterparts. When my own Lucky got sick and passed away in 2011, I reassessed this whole idea, but thought to myself that Lucky didn’t work that hard for me to throw in the towel, so I kept on going.

Another milestone in setting up “Paws & Hearts” was finding Tish Gobble, CPA, who did all the filings with Sacramento to turn my idea into a real Not-For-Profit 501(c)(3), and then receiving our very first donation check from Phyllis Harkins. And dear

Andy

Bob & Zoso

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Phillip Valdez, baking tray after tray of heart-shaped chocolate chip cookies that he took into LA to sell at his office building, all the proceeds going to “Paws & Hearts.” And then came a lot of firsts: our very first dog walkfundraiser; our first board of directors; and all those non-profit classes I attended at RAP given by Eldon Baber, who provided incredible training in all areas of non-profit management those first few incredible years.

Over the course of our 15½ years, there have been wonderful donors who kept sending in donations with each quarterly newsletter. There is also a small, but growing group of donors who have included us in their longterm-planning, and most importantly, hundreds of thank-you letters and calls over the years from patients whose lives the volunteers have touched with their heart-warming visits.

Our very first website was conceived by another long-term volunteer, Karen Pelletier, who also did the most recent update. And with much kicking and

screaming by our board, I finally acquiesced to adding a Facebook page which every week is updated and highlights our incredible Canine Ambassador teams at work!

I get asked all the time how “Paws & Hearts” began. It is just a very simple story of my being in the right place at the right time. I had relocated to Palm Springs in 1998 and was without a dog. After a few months, I purchased my first home and before the paint was even dry on the walls, I found Lucky. I was actually showing a friend a condo complex that I thought was very nice on a very hot July 4th afternoon. We were walking around and this little white and apricot poodle somethingor-other came running over and literally jumped up in my arms. I asked people sitting by the pool if they knew who the dog belonged to and someone said they thought he’d been abandoned because there was a dish of dried food and water left for him. I looked at this dog and said, “Would you like to come home with me?” and he

Cathy and Zoey

Kay & Bennie

Fall 2015

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“Waldo” & “Emerson”

“Samie”

saw the word “sucker” written across my forehead, gave me a big kiss and as we say in Yiddish, it was bashert, which means meant to be. I named him Lucky because I thought I was very lucky that he found me.

A few years later at our third dog walk, Scruffy was one of the dogs up for adoption that wound up with a new home. And then, three years ago, Maddie came along. Scruffy visited Eisenhower Medical Center for 13 years, three days a week, and is now semi-retired. Maddie, the youngster, is doing most of the visits solo these days!

The rest of the story is that a Nursing Director from Valencia Palms came to look at a rental I was showing and told me I should bring Lucky to visit his residents some time. (Lucky always went to work with me, even back then.) Little did he know that Pet Therapy was a great passion of mine!

Lucky and I actually went the very next

day to visit. I remember that day as if it were yesterday—Lucky was amazing on the beds with the residents; he was so gentle and cuddly with everyone.

The marketer in me quickly called The Desert Sun and asked if they would be interested in writing an article, and to my surprise they said “yes,” and asked if they could come and watch a visit the next day. After a second visit and a glowing article with a picture that to this day people remember, the phone started to ring with potential volunteers wanting to take their dogs to visit facilities. Over the years The Desert Sun has consistently done updates on our organization. You guys are great!

A boyfriend by the name of Phillip came along and he helped form our first board of directors. It was his suggestion that each board member should contribute a monthly donation to cover the rent and utilities, and that

Please see the announcement on page 45 for information

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is still in place, fifteen years later.

“Paws & Hearts” is now 15½ years old and continues adding new volunteer teams and new facilities.

There have been some amazing volunteers along the way, and some have been with us for many years.

Here is a list of some of our esteemed veterans: Ann—11 years, 2 dogs, Gus, and now Andy, who visit Eisenhower and does all the fill-in visits for us.

Cathy Robinson—11 years, 3 different dogs at various facilities.

Currently she and Zoey visit The Fountains at the Carlotta.

Rose Ann and Sammi—10 years visiting The Lucy Curci Cancer Center Karen, Waldo and Emerson—9 years visiting Rancho Mirage Healthcare Joe, Bob and Zoso—8 years visiting Desert Regional Medical Center Ann and Samie—8 years at various facilities, most recently The Lucy Curci Cancer Center Kay and Bennie—6 years at Martha’s Village & Kitchen And my right-hand man, Drew Marefos, who for the last seven years has become indispensable. Drew has become an amazing volunteer, going on visits, making presentations, and training. Drew is a board-memberat-large and a major donor, donating the Three T’s that all non-profits look

“Sammi”

for: Time, Talent & Treasure!

And it wouldn’t be proper to leave out some of the names of those who have been instrumental in helping us grow. The very first person who took an interest was Gino Lamont at KMIR when he did the morning news. He had us on once fifteen years ago, and then asked us back many times that first year. We will always be grateful to Gino for that. And for all these years, KMIR has been the corporate sponsor for our Annual Dog Walk fundraiser providing us with our great Grand Marshals!

A radio interview on EZ 103.1 with John O. has led to a 15-year association.

He had us on his Community Affairs program for many years, and became our first MC at our very first dog walk, and continues to this day.

And big thanks go to Valerie who for almost a decade now has donated

about the Paws & Hearts 15th Annual Dog Walk on 11/28.

Fall 2015

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bones-n-scones Your Pet’s Nutrition Center Great, Knowledgeable Service Since 1999.

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her time to do our books every month. And I couldn’t have written four newsletters per year for 15 years without a great proofreader— Karen, who no longer even lives in the valley but has continued to proof everything written that goes out of the office.

And what would a non-profit be without its board of directors? We are now on our second board and we’ve become pretty professional along the way. But the one consistent person is our current Board President, Ginny Tillmannshofer. While the name may not be familiar to too many, those of you who attend our dog walks and love those amazing raffle baskets should know that they are the creative work of Ginny!

What respectable non-profit after 15 years wouldn’t have its list of repeat donors and foundations to support it? We are very lucky that so many have benefitted from our visits and understand how truly important Animal Assisted Therapy is. Add to that list our handful of donors who have included us in their long-term planning and we are set for a lifetime of serving the Coachella Valley!

For information on getting your dog involved in our Pet Therapy Program, making a donation, or leaving us a legacy, please call us at (760) 836-1406.

“Paws & Hearts” is located at: 74-854 Velie Way, Ste. 7, Palm Desert, CA 92270 www.pawsandhearts.org, www.facebook.com/pawsandheartsorg

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bones-n-scones Your Pet’s Nutrition Center

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Where do you check for up to date information about recalls and other safety alerts?

Who do you trust since there is so much conflicting information available?

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Dog/Child Etiquette

by Lori Wainio-Carman, VSPDT Dream Dogs

T

he risk of being bitten by a dog is low compared to other common causes of accidents, in or out of the household, but that’s no consolation to those who find themselves on the business end of a pair of canine choppers. Kids are especially vulnerable. They tend to get excited around dogs and might approach too suddenly, shout too loudly, or dish out well meant but unwanted hugs. To keep kids safe, here’s a primer on what to teach them: 22 Desert Pet Companion

Don’t know the dog?

Avoid.

Lesson number one for kids is to avoid dogs they don’t know. Never approach an unfamiliar dog, especially one who’s tied up or confined behind a fence or in a car, regardless of the dog’s size or overpowering cuteness.

Know the dog well?

Respect the space.

Just like people, dogs have personal space we should respect, particularly

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during dinnertime, naptime, etc. Tell your kids not to approach, touch, or try to play with any dog sleeping, eating, or chewing on a toy or bone. Mommy dogs with puppies are also best left alone. This goes for both strange and well-known dogs, even your own.

At all times, let the dog choose.

“How should a child approach a dog?” is really a trick question. The answer is, they shouldn’t. A guardian may say your child can greet an unfamiliar dog, but it should still be up to the dog to choose whether it wants to be petted. How? Let the dog make the approach. This goes for dogs your child knows well, too. The likelihood of any kind of incident between dogs and

your child is greatly reduced by following this one simple rule.

Finally, if you’re the guardian, be your dog’s advocate. Even if you know your dog to be friendly, always let your dog choose whether or not to approach to get petted and respect its wishes when it doesn’t.

Lori Wainio-Carman, VSPDT, professional dog trainer and owner of Dream Dogs has been successfully training for over 20 years.

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Fall 2015

COURTESY LOVING ALL ANIMALS

Super Pet Adoption Festival Mark Your Calendars!

By Janet McAfee

M

ark your calendar now for the 7th annual Super Pet Adoption Festival on November 14 and 15, presented once again by Loving All Animals. This Wizard of Oz-themed extravaganza is no doubt the most spectacular rescue pet adoption event in Southern California. It draws thousands of animal lovers seeking to adopt or just enjoy a fun outing with their family and friends, sometimes along with their own pup looking for a companion. Animal welfare organizations and public shelters from all over Southern California travel down the “Yellow Brick Road” that weekend hoping to create happy “forever” families for the homeless dogs, cats, birds, and horses in their care.

Taking a trip down the “Yellow Brick” memory lane, it began when Loving All Animals Board President, Lindi Biggi, and Vice President, Joy Diffendal, flew

Fall 2015

to Salt Lake City to observe the mega pet adoption event sponsored there by Best Friends. On November 14, 2009, Loving All Animals launched their first adoption fair in the spacious back yard of the BG Bird Gardens. Volunteers in pink t-shirts matched a pink and black themed setting with approximately 20 animal welfare groups participating.

That Saturday, everyone was jubilant when over 100 cats and dogs found forever homes. Three birds were also adopted. There was even more excitement when Lindsay Wagner, the “Bionic Woman,” dropped by with her rescue dog and mingled with the crowd.

The goal that first year was for 500 attendees. However, everyone was thrilled when their counters revealed over 1,500 people came through the gates! With so many happy endings, Loving All Animals realized they had

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Desert Pet Companion 25

COURTESY LOVING ALL ANIMALS

created an event that was a huge hit in our Coachella Valley. The visibility it created for shelter animals, and the bonds it formed between agencies, had long-term benefits that went way beyond the weekend. At that time, our large county shelter, the Coachella Valley Animal Campus, rarely did off-site adoptions. It was wonderful to have CVAC present, and at midday they ran out of adoptable animals and had to send their trucks back to the shelter to get more.

In 2010, the event expanded to a two-day extravaganza with a Western theme on the grounds of the Jackalope Restaurant in Indio. Volunteers wore Western garb and more vendors and an entertainment stage were added. Local musical groups and dancers performed while some of our valley’s celebrities announced adoptions on stage.

By 2011, the adoption event expanded further and moved to the lovely Whitewater Park in Rancho Mirage. The successful “Wizard of Oz” theme began (tweaked slightly this year to “Wizard of Paws”). In the following years, live music and local entertainers added to the celebration. The “Fair” became a festival, bringing more organizations, new 26 Desert Pet Companion

vendors selling pet related products, dog trainers, and other pet displays.

Dr. Lillian Roberts of Country Club Animal Clinic partnered with the event, providing complimentary vet checks and gift bags for all adopted pets. Last year’s event helped find homes for approximately 275 animals.

This year, Loving All Animals is excited to move to their hometown of Palm Desert. The adoption fair will cover over five acres at the beautiful, centrally located Palm Desert Civic Center Park. With this spacious setting, we are hoping for a record breaking crowd and a record number of adoptions. Nestled behind the Palm Desert Civic Center buildings, the park contains beautiful lakes, a rose garden, and playgrounds for children, as well as a modern Amphitheater that will feature animal demonstrations. You will be greeted again

by Dorothy with Toto, the Tin Man, the Lion, the Scarecrow, and assorted other costumed volunteers.

Country Club Animal Clinic will be there, once again, providing vet checks to ensure your new pet is healthy. There will be a booth providing low-cost vaccinations and micro-chipping for your pet. Pick up lunch from one of the many

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COURTESY LOVING ALL ANIMALS

food trucks and dine at the shaded picnic pavilion. Enjoy the dog performances on stage.

Loving All Animals’ President, Lindi Biggi, hopes for the biggest turnout ever this year, and for over 300 adoptions.

She states, “We are now in our seventh year, and it just keeps getting better.

People in the Coachella Valley are true animal lovers and have good hearts.

They come every year to be a part of the festivities and to see these animals going to homes purring and wagging their tails. Even if they don’t go home with you, it’s a great feeling to see the animals go to loving homes. This event is a great opportunity to save more homeless animals and to mobilize our Valley to become a No-Kill community.” Paraphrasing the Wizard of Oz, “There is no place like a home,” and no home is complete without a special dog or cat.

Watch soon for PSAs from Hollywood star Dick Van Dyke promoting this event. As this goes to print, Loving All Animals is in final negotiations with some special celebrity guests. Check the Facebook page “Loving All Animals Org,” their website www.lovingallanimals.org, or contact their office at (760) 834-7000 for updates and additional Fall 2015

information.

Of course, the biggest stars of the weekend are the beautiful rescue animals—the dogs, the cats, the birds and the horses that arrive with hope in their hearts for loving homes. The Coachella Valley Animal Campus, our Riverside county shelter, plans to bring over 60 animals each day and will feature lower adoption fees. Some rescues attending are breed-specific, including Maltese Rescue California, Forget-MeNot Pekingese Rescue, and So-Cal Boxer Rescue. There will also be several cat rescue groups, including ForEver Meow, showing some beautiful felines.

Shorterhorse Ranch returns again this year, too. Over 45 shelters and rescues will bring over 500 adoptable animals, so you will have lots to choose from.

So, come and ease on down the Yellow Brick Road on Saturday and Sunday, November 14 and 15, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Palm Desert Civic Center Park. The park is located on the corner of Fred Waring Drive and San Pablo Avenue in Palm Desert, behind the city government buildings. There is no charge for admission. Who knows, you may fall in love and take home a new best “fur friend.”

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Travels with

Max & Luther

One Perfect Day in the Desert, Part 1

by Max & Luther, authors of True Tails from the Dog Park

L

uther and I recently made a road trip to Palm Springs from San Diego and we wanted to share our adventure with you. First of all, I should mention Luther and I love road trips and this one in particular was great as we took the back way into Palm Desert through the mountains on Highway 74. What a fun ride down the mountain, and the view of Coachella Valley was amazing!

Naturally, our first stop was at Ralph Adams Park in Palm Desert.

This 27 acre-park has multi-use trails and an off-leash dog area. Luther and I stumbled upon a morning dog meet-up group when we arrived. We love meeting new dogs and their humans! Being curious in nature, I naturally took off to explore this new park, which I should mention is not fenced, and I ended up heading back towards the road. Boy, was my mom mad at me for that, and I was promptly put back on the leash! The Ralph Adams Park is quite scenic, and Luther and I loved exploring the desert landscape.

Mom promised me we would come back and check out some of the hiking 28 Desert Pet Companion

trails next time. If you come, don’t forget to bring your own water and doggie bags! Our next stop was breakfast at the Palm Café in Palm Desert. This restaurant is very dog friendly, with an outdoor patio that had Tiki huts for shade over the tables. Luther and I love going to breakfast, because my mom always orders us a side of bacon or sausage as a special treat! This restaurant is right around the corner from the El Paseo shopping district, so naturally our moms made us take a stroll after breakfast to do some window shopping…

After the shopping excursion, Luther and I headed over to the nearby Civic Center Dog Park. This is a great dog park that has both small and large

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dog sections. It is hard to believe in the desert, but this dog park had great grass to run around on and even trees for shade! As it was a warm day in the desert, Luther and I appreciated a break from the sun. Mom and Aunt Carey hung out on the covered benches and chatted with the locals as we explored the dog park and had some fun wrestling with each other.

After we had our fill of the dog park, we explored the rest of this huge park, which had a ton of different things to do: baseball, tennis, volleyball, basketball, skate park, playground and picnic areas. You could bring the family (which naturally includes us dogs)

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and spend the whole day at the Civic Center Park! If only all parks had such a great variety of activities for the whole family.

In the next issue, Luther and I continue our adventure and head over into Palm Springs‌.

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Desert Pet Companion 29

PHOTO COURTESY BAILEY CHAIRS 4 DOGS

Living with Megaesophagus

By Karen Moreland, DVM, and Robert Reed DVM, MSES, MPA VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital

N

ormally, your dog or cat swallows food and the esophagus (the tube connecting your mouth with your stomach) helps propel the food into the stomach. The esophagus’ wave-like contractions move the food down into the stomach where it begins the digestive process. In a pet with megaesophagus, the esophagus is enlarged due to a lack of muscle tone, so the contractions are not as efficient and the food will sit in the esophagus. As the food builds up, the pet regurgitates it.

Regurgitation is different from vomiting. When a pet regurgitates its food, the pet opens its mouth and the undigested food simply comes back out.

Vomiting, however, generally includes 30 Desert Pet Companion

retching and expelling digested food, and vomit often contains bile.

If food is regurgitated frequently, a dog or cat may become malnourished and lose weight because its food isn’t making its way to the stomach for digestion and nutrient absorption. Another common problem with megaesophagus is aspiration pneumonia, an infection that is potentially life threatening. Aspiration pneumonia can occur during a regurgitation episode when food is inhaled into the lungs, causing the lungs to become infected.

Dogs develop megaesophagus more frequently than cats. Breeds with a higher risk of developing it include Great Dane, German Shepherd Dog,

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Miniature Schnauzer, Fox Terrier, Irish Setter, Labrador Retriever, Newfoundland, and Shar-Pei. While uncommon in cats, it seems to occur more frequently in Siamese cats than any other breed.

Causes

Megaesophagus (literally, enlarged esophagus) can be caused by either the failure of the esophagus to move food to the stomach or by a physical blockage that prevents food from moving into the stomach. The condition can either be a congenital (born with it) defect or can be acquired.

Congenital defects that may cause megaesophagus include: • Vascular ring anomalies • Congenital Myasthenia Gravis • Idiopathic (meaning unknown cause) Acquired megaesophagus can be caused by: • any disease that interferes with the esophagus’ function including gastrointestinal, endocrine, neuromuscular, immune-mediated and toxic diseases.

• foreign body in esophagus • esophagus inflammation • exposure to toxins

• parasitic infections • chronic bloat • hiatal hernia

Diagnosis

If megaesophagus is suspected, an x-ray (radiograph) is taken to view the esophagus. Routine laboratory tests including a complete blood count, biochemistry profile and urinalysis are used to rule out other possible conditions. An esophagoscopy might be performed. The esophagoscopy allows a thorough examination of the interior of the esophagus using an endoscope—a thin, tube-like instrument with a lens and light. Additional tests might include the ingestion of barium in conjunction with an x-ray.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the condition. Surgery might be necessary if, for instance, a foreign body needs to be removed or a vascular ring is involved. Pets with compromised food intake will need to change their diet and potentially the way they are fed. Close attention to weight (gain or loss) is also important.

A feeding tube may be necessary.

The tube allows food to bypass the

Megaesophagus website resources: www.caninemegaesophagus.org/ https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/megaesophagus/info www.roxiesmegamission.org/ http://caninemegaesophagusinfo.com/

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esophagus and go directly into the stomach. For dogs that are able to take food, keeping them in an upright position after eating or drinking is necessary. A Bailey Chair is a helpful tool for dogs with megaesophagus. The chair allows the dog to sit in a begging position to eat, drink or take medications and gravity moves the food into the stomach (see sidebar).

Finding the food that works for your particular pet requires a bit of trial and error research. Determining the easiest and most comfortable elevated position for your pet to eat (and then stay in for 10-15 minutes after eating) can be a challenging proposition, at best. Feeding small and frequent meals is necessary. Sometimes a thickening agent is added to water to decrease the chance of aspiration problems.

Acupuncture is sometimes employed in an effort to stimulate esoph-

ageal movement, and chiropractic sessions have been suggested as a way to stimulate nerves in the esophagus.

There are some traditional Chinese medicinals and homeopathics directed at improving esophageal tone, as well as neutraceuticals, such as choline and whole food organic minerals that are also promoted to benefit megaesophagus patients.

Prognosis

Megaesophagus used to be considered a fatal condition, but with proper care, diligence and patience, many pets live a relatively normal life.

Prompt treatment of respiratory infections is necessary. Generally, megaesophagus is treatable but not curable and requires lifetime care.

VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital located at 71-075 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, CA. 760-346-6103. Visit www.vcahospitals.com/rancho-mirage

Bailey Chair

The Bailey chair was designed by Donna and Joe

Koch to help their dog, Bailey, when it was diagnosed with megaesophagus. There are many resources on the web to purchase a premade chair or you can build your own. • Donna Koch, www.baileychair.blogspot.com/ • www.ehow.com/how_4843356_buildbailey-chair-dogs.html Premade • www.baileychairs4dogs.com/

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>>>>>>>>>>>>

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Desert Pet Companion 33

RABBI SALLY OLINS LAUNCHES NEW ‘PETS AT REST’ SERVICE Offering Grief Counseling and Personalized, Non-denominational Memorial Celebrations

R

abbi Sally Olins and the personalized recently launched grief counseling and a new business venture non-denominational called Pets At Rest, memorial services PETS AT REST offering grief counseling offered by Pets At Rest and memorial services are designed to help to those who have lost pet owners go through an animal companion. a healing process and The loss of a devoted say goodbye to their pet can be a painful experience, cherished animal friends. Rabbi

Does your Cat or Dog have a Feeding Tube?

Kitty Kollar® is a patented solution to keep the tube secure and your pet more comfortable

No Bandages Easy on and off Very Secure Machine Washable

“Special hugs for Special kitties”

Also superior o-ring syringes and disposable pads

www.KittyKollar.com 34 Desert Pet Companion

714.639.6039

info@kittykollar.com

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Sally draws on her love of animals and 26 years as an active congregational conservative Rabbi to create a peaceful, one-of-a-kind memorial service at your home or pet cemetery.

“Losing a pet means losing a member of the family, and he or she deserves a loving final tribute to provide family and friends with a lasting memory,” explained Olins. “After losing a pet companion, many people make the decision to never bring another pet into their lives to avoid reliving the pain and loss they experienced, which is why grief counseling is so important.”

Because of the unique emotional relationship we have with our pets, their deaths produce a level of pain that is difficult to describe. Grief counseling brings closure and healing during this difficult time. It often takes several sessions for Rabbi Sally to help the grieving person heal and open their heart to love another pet again.

Olins has a Masters Degree in Jewish Philosophy and was ordained a Conservative Rabbi in 1989. She moved to the desert in 2006 to become the spiritual leader at Temple Isaiah in Palm Springs, where her creative approach to religious services and commitment to community outreach brought a new energy and focus to Palm Springs.

Rabbi Sally says, “My hope is that even though nothing can bring your pet back, I can help you to get back your heart.”

For pricing and more information, please visit rabbisally.com.

Fall 2015

PETS AT REST

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Desert Pet Companion 35

Events!

OCTOBER October 1-31: “Cat-tober” at Village Park Animal Hospital (Free nail trims with every cat exam). Call 760-564-3833 for more information.

October 3 & 4: Golden West Cat Club Cat Show at the Palm Springs Leisure Center; SEE AD page 38.

October 7: SpayGhetti No Ball Dinner & Silent Auction at the BG Bird Gardens benefitting Loving All Animals; SEE AD page 38.

October 21: Pet-A-Thon and Yappy Hour too!

Benefitting Loving All Animals; SEE AD page 43.

October 24: Palm Springs Tram Road Challenge at the Palm Springs Tram; SEE AD page 41.

October 24: Faux Fur Ball II at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter; SEE AD page 39.

36 Desert Pet Companion

October 30: Who Am I? Low-cost tag and microchip clinic (open to all CV residents), at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter; 4575 E. Mesquite Avenue, Palm Springs; 760-416-5718.

October 31: Halloween Graveyard Run, Dogfriendly event, Palm Springs; SEE AD page 42.

NOVEMBER November 7th, 5pm - 8pm: “Caturday Night Live” at Village Park Animal Hospital. Open house style event for cat lovers and friends!

Call 760-564-3833 for more information.

November 14 & 15: Super Pet Adoption Festival at the Palm Desert Civic Center Park; SEE AD page 44.

November 20: New Heights Nightshow 2015 Benefits the Palm Springs Animal Shelter.

Visit www.tricknewheights.com for more information about the event.

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 43

Fall 2015

Golden West Cat Club Presents:

FALLING FOR FELINES I and II CFA sanctioned 6x6 shows 8 AB & 4 SP Rings - Entry limit 225 each day

ators October 3 & 4, 2015 Spectome!

Welc at the Palm Springs Leisure Center

For More Information Please Contact: Show Manager: Mary Ann Martin maryann.martin@gmail.com Entry Clerk: Rhonda Avery PO Box 6700 Oxnard, CA 93031 rhonda.avery@hotmail.com

h l 6T nua An

DINNER

When

& SILENT AUCTION

Wednesday October 7, 2015 From 4:00PM to 8:00 PM

Where

The BG Bird Gardens 73179 Joshua Tree St Palm Desert, CA 92260

Make Your Reservations Now! Space is Limited $25.00 Pre-Sale • $30.00 At the Door Visit lovingallanimals.org or call 760-834-7000 for Reservations!

38 Desert Pet Companion

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F R I E N D S O F T H E PA L M S P R I N G S A N I M A L S H E LT E R

FAUX

FUR

P U T T I N ’ A

FESTIVE

BENEFIT

O N

FOR

THE

BALL

T H E

PALM

II

L E A S H

SPRINGS

ANIMAL

S H E LT E R

O C T O B E R 2 4, 2 0 1 5 , 5 : 3 0 - 9 : 0 0 CO M P L I M E N TA RY

4575

VA L E T

PARKING

PA L M S P R I N G S A N I M A L S H E LT E R E A S T M E S Q U I T E AV E N U E , PA L M S P R I N G S TICKETS:

AVA I L A B L E

AT:

$125.00

PER

PERSON

W W W. P S A N I M A L S H E LT E R .O R G

Mark your calendars for a fabulous evening at Faux Fur Ball II “Puttin’ on the Leash!”

Hosted bar and hors d'oeuvres, seated dinner, dancing, live auction, special and surprise guests!

You're invited to a transformative evening to celebrate the animals and lifesaving work we are doing as a community. The Palm Springs Animal Shelter is leading the way towards a No-Kill Coachella Valley, let's celebrate!

BENEFITING

EVENT DESIGN & PRODUCTION BY

EVENT CATERING SPONSORED BY

F R I E N D S O F T H E PA L M S P R I N G S A N I M A L S H E LT E R I S A 5 0 1 ( C ) ( 3 ) N O N - P R O F I T O R G A N I Z AT I O N

Are You And Your Dog Up For The

CHALLENGE? 40 Desert Pet Companion

Linda Klein, Matthew Davidson and Jingle Klein at the Tram finish line in 2014.

By Greg Klein, Klein and Clark Sports LLC

O

n October 24, 2015, the Palm Springs Tram Road Challenge 6K run and walk will celebrate their 30 year anniversary of this unique and fun event.

There is no other event anywhere quite like the Tram Road Challenge. The road climbs 2,000 vertical feet to the lower tram station, which creates a tough, but very doable event whether you run or walk. Kids as young as five years old www.DesertPetCompanion.com

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United Way of the Desert

and adults as old as 90 have participated in this event.

In the past few years, the event has really grown, with nearly 2,000 runners last year and amazingly, so has the number of runners and walkers participating with their dogs. It is a great way to spend the morning with your best pet friend while doing something great for both you and your dog. “Fitness is so important for both people and pets to help increase the quality and longevity of their lives,” says long time runner and event director Greg Klein. “My wife and 12 year old son have run the Tram Road Challenge the past few years and have always taken our dog along for the fun.”

In addition to the health benefits of

42 Desert Pet Companion

participating, the event also is a part of the National Make a Difference Day, sponsored by the Desert Sun. It is a national day of doing something good for the community and hopes to raise $80,000 for the United Way of the Desert. All participants get a 30-year anniversary finisher medal, full cooked breakfast, and a cool tech race shirt.

We even have dog bowls of water at each aid station. Grab your dog and start showing up for the city wide practice walks every Saturday. Most venues are dog friendly.

For more information on the walks, go to desertsun.com/ makeadifferenceday.

For event information go to www.kleinclarksports.com.

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Get Your Pledge Ready!

Pet-A-Thon

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

6:00 AM - 7:00 PM Hosted by

Your Gift Saves Lives!

At

Come to our Yappy Hour Celebration at the End of the Pet-A-Thon 4:00 PM—7:00 PM Bianca Rae Dan McGrath News Anchor CBS Radio Host News Channel 3 Sunny 103 More info at lovingallanimals.org or call us at 760.834.7000

EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 36 November 26: Wild Turkey Trot, Dogfriendly event, Palm Springs; SEE AD page 46.

November 28: Paws & Hearts 15th Annual Walkathon at the Westin Mission Hills in Rancho Mirage; SEE AD page 45.

DECEMBER December 12: Home for the Holidays Adoption Festival, Palm Spring Animal Shelter will host their first super adoption festival, called Home for the Holidays on December 19th! Our friends from Coachella Valley Animal Campus will be there! Stay tuned for more details! Palm Springs Animal Shelter; 4575 E. Mesquite Avenue, Palm Springs; 760-832-623.

Did we miss your event? Please contact us at editor@desertpetcompanion.com or 760835-0369.

Fall 2015

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Desert Pet Companion 43

Please Join

7th Annual

Super Pet Adoption Festival

    

Free Admission Over 40 Animal Welfare Groups Attending Over 500 Dogs, Cats and Birds Available for Adoption Lots of Animal Related Vendors, Great food and Entertainment K9 and Other Dog Demonstrations

November 14th & 15th Palm Desert Civic Center Park 10am – 4pm Visit us at lovingallanimals.org for more information or call us at 760.834.7000

Register Now! For

The “Paws & Hearts” 15th Annual Dog Walk Saturday November 28th, 2015 At The Westin Mission Hills Resort and Spa, Rancho Mirage Registration begins at 9am, Walk kicks off at 10am

All proceeds benefit the amazing therapy visits that our group of 40 + 2-legged and 4-legged volunteers provide to Coachella Valley hospitals, long-term care facilities, Cancer and Alzheimer facilities. __________ Please plan on attending our Thanksgiving Saturday walk and raise funds in your dog’s name.

Registration forms and information can be found on our website, www.pawsandhearts.org, or call our office at (760)836-1406.

Please see Paws & Hearts article on page 16.

Watch the Pet Segment with Jenifer Daniels Every Wednesday in the 5:00 AM Newshour

46 Desert Pet Companion

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Constipation in Cats

Reviewed by Rebecca Diaz, DVM The Cat Clinic

C

onstipation can affect cats of any age, although it is more common in middle aged to elderly cats. Many things can cause a cat to become constipated: an intestinal blockage, stress, not enough exercise, not enough water, arthritis, a tumor, or something else entirely. Symptoms include straining to defecate, tiny or hard feces, and sometimes not defecating for days. Severe cases can require a procedure to remove the impacted feces. And in extreme situations, if the colon’s nerves have been damaged by prolonged impaction, surgery may be recommended to remove the damaged section of colon. Chronic constipation leads to a condition known as megacolon, in which the colon becomes abnormally dilated and enlarged and loses its ability to contract.

This may ultimately lead to obstipation, which is a complete blockage.

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Other symptoms  Defecating outside the litter tray.  Lethargy.  Abdominal pain.  Vomiting.  Hunching over, due to discomfort.  Loss of appetite.  Weight loss.

Causes

 Dehydration.  Reluctance to defecate due to behavioral issues. Dirty litter boxes, not wanting to share a litter tray or go outside (if it’s raining or cold).  Cancer.  Obstructions of the colon, including birth defects, hairballs, tumors, polyps, foreign objects.  Low-fiber diets can cause constipation.  Antihistamines, diuretics, painkillers and antibiotics are some

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systemic disorders, such as kidney disease or diabetes mellitus, which could cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

How is cat constipation treated?

Mild cases of constipation without accompanying symptoms such as vomiting or depression may be treated on an outpatient basis at home by giving your cat extra fiber or stool softeners. More severe cases may require an enema or manual extraction of the feces, then rehydration with drugs which can cause constipation. intravenous fluids and prevention of  Painful defecation from impacted future dehydration. anal glands or perianal bite abscess.

If possible, find and remove the  Damage to the nerves in the colon cause of the constipation such as: and anus, spinal cord injury, paralysis.  Ensuring there are an adequate  Hypothyroidism. number of clean litter boxes.  Metabolic/hormonal: Low  Surgical removal of tumors and/or potassium (hypokalemia), kidney chemotherapy/radiotherapy. failure, diseases of the thyroid and  Surgery to remove any blockages parathyroid glands. and/or increasing fiber, giving stool softeners to assist with defecation.

How is constipation  Feeding a high-fiber diet. diagnosed?  If possible, stopping any Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination and obtain a medications or adding extra fiber to the diet while the cat is on the drugs. medical history from you.  Treating abscess or impacted  Abdominal palpitation will reveal anal glands by emptying, applying a hard and full colon. antiseptic/antibiotics to the area and  X-ray of the abdomen and pelvis oral antibiotics. to assess the size of the colon and to  Hormone replacement therapy determine the extent of impaction and (thyroxine) for hypothyroidism. check for foreign objects.  Oral or intravenous potassium  If cancer is suspected, endoscopy replacement. and biopsy may be performed.  Dietary management (low  Routine serum biochemical protein), phosphorous binders, and profile, complete blood count and supportive care for kidney problems. urinalysis to check for underlying 48 Desert Pet Companion

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Home treatment  Adding bulk to the diet assists in mild cases of constipation.

Unprocessed wheat bran or Metamucil are recommended. Add approximately 1 teaspoon of unprocessed wheat bran or Metamucil per 475g canned food.

Pumpkin is also a good way to  prevent constipation. It is high in fiber and has a high water content, both of which help to keep bowel movements regular. Add 1-2 teaspoons of canned or cooked pumpkin to your cat’s daily meal.

Prevention

Removing the cause, if at all possible, is the best course of action.

This includes:  If your cat is prone to hairballs,

Fall 2015

you should speak to your veterinarian about special hairball diets available for cats.

 Frequent brushing to reduce the

amount of hair swallowed.

 Regular treatment for parasites.

 Adding fiber such as pumpkin or

flax seeds to the diet.

 Make sure your cat has access to

clean, fresh drinking water at all times.  Increasing water consumption  Switching your cat to a wet

diet, encouraging him to drink more.

Rebecca Diaz, DVM is the owner of The

Cat Clinic, a feline-only veterinary clinic located at 67870 Vista Chino, Cathedral City, CA www.catcitycat.com, 760-325-3400

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50 Desert Pet Companion

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Sprocket, the Wonder Dog

By Geoff Winstead

PHOTOGRAPH © MARK DAVIDSON PHOTOGRAPHY

S

o I was sitting in a bar one night, just me and the bartender, when this guy and his dog come in the door… Sounds like the set up to a joke, doesn’t it? But that’s really the way I met Sprocket the Wonder Dog and his owner, Anthony Blanco. I was immediately impressed by how calm and well-behaved this statuesque black and white canine with striking blue eyes was while still being aware of everything going on in this new environment. I wondered why this guy was bringing a dog into a bar with him, so I had to get their story.

I introduced myself to the dog’s owner, who turned out to be Anthony, who, in turn, introduced his dog as “Sprocket, The Wonder Dog.” Since Anthony and I were talking, Sprocket decided he wanted to be friends, too, and came and sat by my side, but waited for me to make the first move (maybe he just smelled that I had popcorn on the counter and wanted some). My cynical side reared up and I asked, “What makes him a ‘wonder dog’?” “Well, he’s very smart. Let me show you,” said Anthony. After about 10 verbal and hand signals that included bowing and shaking hands were executed perfectly, my cynicism was replaced by being

Fall 2015

impressed with Sprocket’s abilities.

Sprocket is a Husky and Border Collie mix (two very smart breeds in one package) and I learned that he is an alumnus of Dream Dogs training with a certificate in intermediate obedience, which explained a lot. “He knows a lot more, but this isn’t the right place to show those tricks. He might knock something over in here,” said Anthony.

Sprocket is also an actor. He recently finished making a movie for Disney called Zoey to the Max. Although he wasn’t the canine star of the movie (a Black Lab got that part), he is featured prominently in the film, which is about a girl named Zoey, whose famous family show dog gets stolen and her cross-country adventure trying to get the dog back. Maybe Sprocket will be the star next time.

He also has his own Facebook page, which chronicles their seasonal trips between Palm Springs and Durango, Colorado, including people they’ve met at various campgrounds, activities he and Anthony are involved in, and dayto-day mischief. Sprocket likes to play and cool off in streams and seems to like the snow in Colorado better than the summer heat here.

Sprocket and Anthony also make

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PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY ANTHONY BLANCO

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PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY ANTHONY BLANCO

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY ANTHONY BLANCO

some charitable appearances on occasion. They have both participated in the Men of the Desert Fashion Show, getting dressed up and walking the runway to benefit Animal Samaritans.

After a couple of drinks, a little more chit chat, and a few pieces of popcorn going Sprocket’s way, I asked if Sprocket could be one of our cover models. Anthony thought that would be great. Sprocket reached out his paw to shake on the deal … and here we are!

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If Your Dog Is Attacked, Will You Know What To Do?

By Valerie Masi Best Paw Forward

D

og attacks are traumatic experiences for both humans and dogs. It’s something all dog owners worry about and hope will never happen. But if it did happen to your dog, would you know what to do? Arming yourself with a basic tool or two and knowing what to do—and what not to do—can mean the difference between a scary situation or a tragic one.

Stay Calm

If a strange dog attacks your dog, the most important thing to do is to stay calm. It may sound illogical, or even impossible, but when humans react to an attack with panic and yelling, it only adds fuel to the dogs’ agitation and rage. Just as the crowd at a football game fires up the players with their excitement, your flailing arms and loud voice will just intensify the dogs’ ferocity. You need to remain calm and try to separate the dogs as quickly as possible. But whatever you do, don’t reach into the fray and try to separate the dogs by grabbing them by their collars. That’s the instinctive thing to do, but you will almost certainly get a bite … or several!

Breaking up the Fight

If you find yourself in this situation and you’re lucky enough to be with another person, stay calm and work together. One of the most effective methFall 2015

ods of separating fighting dogs is to have two people simultaneously grab each dog by the back legs and start moving backward as if you’re pulling a wheelbarrow. As you move backward, gently pull the dog from left to right, in a zig-zag motion. This will prevent the dog from turning around to bite you.

When dogs are fighting, they are in a purely reactive state, and they will bite anything that touches them, including you.

If you’re by yourself, call out for help. But if no help comes and you’re on your own, use the method described above on the dog that has attacked your dog. This could give your dog a chance to get away.

Prevention is Best

Obviously, the best scenario is to intervene before another dog attacks your dog and stop the fight before it happens. Carrying an air horn, pepper spray, walking stick or golf club while

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C.A.N. (Coachella Animal Network) Reaches Milestone Article and Photograph by Janet McAfee

T

he local media was waiting and there was much fanfare on August 28, 2015, to greet a lovely brown Shepherd mix dog named Allie as she arrived for her appointment to be spayed.

Allie’s celebrated arrival marked a milestone of 2,000 animals assisted by a local program that began two years ago to help middle and lower income pet owners in our East Valley.

Allie’s owner, Kent Miller, proudly showed off his 6-month old dog to the small crowd that gathered. Miller explained this rescue pup is his first family dog. “Allie is a wonderful companion for my teenagers. We were thrilled when our landlord finally approved us getting a dog. Getting her spayed is part of being a responsible pet owner, plus there are so many health benefits. We are grateful to this program for making it affordable.” Miller is pictured here with Allie and Kim Hardee, the director of this spay and neuter program.

The local program, C.A.N., was conceived by Indio resident Kim Hardee. This animal advocate had a vision for a low cost spay-neuter clinic in the East Valley that would reduce the suffering of these animals. Hardee would not take “no” for an answer, and comments, “We have all these unwanted animals, and everyone talks about the need for free or low cost spay and neutering to reduce their numbers. Our government alone can’t solve the problem. This is a community problem, and it’s up to us to help these helpless animals.”

Read more about C.A.N. in our next issue. Reach C.A.N at: www.facebook.com/ CANofTheDesert 54 Desert Pet Companion

you walk your dog will give you some means for getting the other dog’s attention and diverting him away from attacking your dog. If you see a dog running toward your dog, say “No!” in the loudest, lowest-pitch voice you can.

If you have a stick or golf club, raise it in the air, then bring it down sharply, pointing it at the dog. If you have an air horn or pepper spray, speak in the same manner to the approaching dog, and if the dog continues to advance toward you or your dog, blow the horn or use the pepper spray. Use caution with the pepper spray, taking note of the wind direction before you release it.

Calm is Key

When an attack does happen, it’s traumatic for both you and your dog.

But if you can manage your own emotions, you will be of the greatest help to your terrified dog. Just like children need their parents to model appropriate behavior and remain calm in a storm, your dog will look to you to for emotional cues. Don’t hug your dog tightly and lavish affection on him or her in a panic after an attack. Your panic will create panic in your dog.

Stay calm and focus on what you need to do for your dog, and your dog will stay calmer, too. Remember that dogs live in the moment, so once the danger has passed, the dog’s fear will pass, too, if you aren’t showing fear of your own.

Let It Go

Be aware of your body language and your own wariness of other dogs following the attack. Do your best not to exhibit any concern—your dog will

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pick up on your nervous energy and may begin to show his or her own fear or aggression toward other dogs. The attack is behind you … let it go so your dog can, too.

Make it a point not to change your dog’s daily routine. As long as your dog was not badly injured, stick to your regular routine in your regular location. If you encounter a dog, don’t shy away or change direction. Stay calm and assertive, and your dog will follow suit. If your dog was seriously hurt in the attack, try to get him or her back to normal as soon as you can. Then take your dog to socialize with other familiar and friendly dogs. If you frequent a dog park or doggie daycare, get your

dog back there as soon as you can. You can also enroll your dog in training classes to rebuild self-esteem, such as agility or flyball.

If your dog continues to display unusual behavior, such as fear or aggression, consider calling a professional dog trainer who specializes in aggression issues. But do your homework: not all trainers have the knowledge to work with dogs who display aggressive behavior.

When attacks happen, it’s scary for everyone, but it’s up to us to take the necessary steps to help our dogs through the experience so they can get back to being the well-balanced, emotionally healthy dogs we love.

Valerie Masi, owner of Best Paw Forward can be reached at 760-885-9450 or visit www.bestpawforwarddogtraining.com.

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Movie Magic?

Don’t Let a Movie Choose Your Pet For You

E

PHOTO COURTESY IRVINE POLICE DEPARTMENT

making wise, educated very time a movie decisions when it comes comes out starring to adding a dog to their a dog, adoption rates for home. that breed skyrocket.

What should you keep The popularity of a in mind about the breed? movie is a strong force As highly intelligent behind some families’ and active dogs, Malinois choice of a pet. While require training and socialunderstandable, this ization from an early age. practice concerns orgaPuppy kindergarten and nizations that encourage Irvine Police Department regular obedience classes responsible pet ownerK9 officer Kenny is a are necessary. ship. One of the most Belgian Malinois Belgian Malinois are full outspoken organizations of energy. The breed possesses a strong is the American Kennel Club. desire to work and is happiest with With the release of the popular regular activity and a job to do. movie Max this summer, the AKC is ofThis smart, people-oriented dog fering some sound advice for potential wants to be a member of the family, so pet owners on Belgian Malinois, urging problems can arise if he is underempeople to get to know the breed before ployed and neglected. they adopt: Exercise is required daily and short Max, the Warner Brothers movie walks won’t suffice—Malinois require starring a Belgian Malinois, came out regular playtime in the yard, running, in theaters June 26th. It is based on the bike rides, hiking or other fun with his true story of a military working dog named Max that served on the frontlines owner.

You’ll be responsible for training and in Afghanistan with his handler, U.S. caring for your Malinois for its entire Marine Kyle Wincott.

The Belgian Malinois is an alert, high- life, which can last into its teens.

Read more about the breed at AKC. energy breed, and the qualities that make the breed one of the leading police org and talk to the experts before making your decision. Learn more from and military dogs in the world may the American Belgian Malinois Club at not translate into an easy home life for www.malinoisclub.com. every family. AKC would like to remind moviegoers about the importance of Source: American Kennel Club 56 Desert Pet Companion

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Fall 2015

RABBIT

Digestive Health

By Dr. David Jeffrey Village Park Animal Hospital

D

id you know that the average lifespan o f a rabbit is 9 to 12 years and the oldest living rabbit is 16? All too often, the lives of these affectionate and charismatic companions are cut short due to digestive tract problems. Rabbits are much like horses, not only in that gut motility issues can become rapidly fatal, but also in that their teeth continually grow. The pattern in which they chew their food is actually what helps to wear their teeth down. Both rabbits and guinea pigs chew in a lateral side-to-side motion which causes tooth on tooth grinding. Diet plays a huge role in this chewing pattern as the types of food and how much chewing is needed for that food item is what helps the teeth wear on each other. Feeding your pet fresh hay and grasses, as well as being beneficial for gut health, requires the pet to put a lot more effort and force into chewing their food and grinding more with their teeth. Feeding a lot of softer foods such as pellets, fruits or vegetables doesn’t require as much chewing, meaning that the teeth are not worn down as they should be.

Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation out there about the care of exotic pets. I have seen firsthand 58 Desert Pet Companion

the results of good people being told the wrong information regarding the care of their new family member. A rabbit that is not eating or passing stools is in dire need of medical attention. Fortunately, if taken to a veterinary hospital familiar with their specific needs, these cases can have an excellent prognosis for recovery and years added onto a lifespan that should rival that of small dogs.

Dr. David Jeffrey is the newest addition to the Village Park Animal Hospital team. He is a South African by birth, immigrating to Southern California at an early age, attending UC Irvine as an undergraduate in biological sciences.

Dr. Jeffrey attended veterinary school in Western Australia, where he developed a passion for the care of birds, rabbits, fish, reptiles, and any variety of unusual pets.

He is very happy to have become part of the local community and is excited to make lots of new friends, both human and animal.

Village Park Animal Hospital is located at 51-230 Eisenhower Dr. in La Quinta.

Village Park Animal Hospital also offers grooming services for dogs and cats. (760) 564-3833 www. villageparkanimalhospital.com

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Business Directory

Visit our website for additional information about the businesses listed on this page and a comprehensive list of other local pet businesses.

GROOMING Barkingham Pet Hotel California 34-550 Spyder Circle, Palm Desert, 760-537-1172 2nd location, Hyde Park, offers Day Care & Grooming: 555 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, 760-3275700, www.pethotelcalifornia.com, Page 15.

Bath & Brush, 4771 E. Palm Canyon Dr. Ste. A, Palm Springs, 760-202-4494, Page 14.

K9 Clipper & Catamaran, 67-555 E. Palm Canyon Dr. (Hwy 111), Ste. F110, Cathedral City, 760-770-7676, www.k9clipperandcatamaran.com, Page 12.

The Canine Spa 68766 Perez Rd., Cathedral City, 760-328-0876, www. thecaninespa.com, Page 13.

PET SITTERS, & PET WASTE REMOVAL SERVICE Exotic Birds Unlimited, 44827 San Pablo Ave., Palm Desert, 760-779-5205, www.exoticbirdsunlimited.com Guardian Pet and Home Care, 760-238-1612, www.guardianpetandhomecare.com, Page 13.

Got Dooky?

866-229-9289, www.gotdooky.com, Page 14.

Kim’s Pet Sitting Service Tobi Kim Sherman, 760-409-1481, Page 14.

RESTAURANTS, RESORTS & HOTELS Visit our website for a comprehensive list of petfriendly hospitality businesses.

RETAIL & PET STORES Bones-n-Scones, 577 E. Sunny Dunes Rd., Palm Springs, 760-864-1133 and 73-910 Highway 111, Palm Desert, 760-340-BONE, Pages 20/21.

Cold Nose Warm Heart, 189 S. Palm Canyon, Palm Springs, 760-327-7747 The Grand Paw 77-920 Country Club Dr., Palm Desert, 760-345-8494, 51750 Jackson St., Vista Santa Rosa, 760-398-9900, 2nd Page 60/61. location offers Day Care only: 368 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Pet Oasis, 42-220 Washington St., Bermuda Dunes Palm Springs, 760-327-8200, Page 11. (next to Home Goods), 760-345-3199, The Pet Spaw, 73-911 Hwy 111, Palm Desert, 72877 Dinah Shore Dr. (across from Clark’s Nutrition) 760-346-3461, Page 12.

760-324-0980, Page 9.

Uptown Dog Grooming, 73290 El Paseo, Suite 4, Treat Buddy, 4751 E. Palm Canyon, South Palm Palm Desert, 760-779-9900 Springs, 760-202-3600, Page 1.

SERVICES 501(c)(3) 4u, info@501c34u.com, Page 24.

Paws & Hearts, 760-836-1406, www.pawsandhearts.org, Page 45.

TRAINING Best Paw Forward, Valerie Masi, 760-885-9450, www.BestPawForwardDogTraining.com Page 55.

Pets at Rest, 818-388-8867, www.rabbisally.com, Page 35.

Dream Dogs, Lori Wainio-Carman 45090 Golf Center Parkway Unit B, Indio, 760-899-7272, www.dreamdogs.com, Page 23.

PET CLUBS Kennel Club of Palm Springs iggylil@earthlink.net for information.

VETERINARIANS Carter Animal Hospital, 36-701 Date Palm Dr., Cathedral City, 760-324-8811

PET PRODUCTS Bailey Chairs 4 Dogs, www.baileychairs4dogs.com Hopkins Pet Products, 909-227-7450, www.hopkinspetproducts.com, Page 24.

Kitty Kollar, www.KittyKollar.com, Page 34.

Spoiled Dog Designs, spoileddogdesigns.com, True Tails from the Dog Park, www.kariandcarey.com, Page 29.

PET RESORTS & BOARDING Furrst and Furrmost Pooch Palace 760-409-9226, www.furrstandfurrmost.com, Page 12.

Country Club Animal Clinic 36869 Cook St., Palm Desert, 760-776-7555 www.countryclubdvm.com, Page 5.

The Cat Clinic 67870 Vista Chino, Cathedral City, 760-325-3400 www.catcitycat.com, Page 49.

Veterinarian on the Run, Mobile veterinarian, 760-898-2627, www.vetontherun.com VCA - All Creatures Animal Hospital 78-267 Hwy. 111, La Quinta, 760-564-1154 www.vcahospitals.com/all-creatures Page 2.

VCA - Desert Animal Hospital 4299 E. Ramon Road, Palm Springs, 760-778-9999 Barkingham Pet Hotel California, see listing above in www.vcahospitals.com/desert, Page 31.

Grooming, Page 15.

VCA - Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital Kats Hotel for Dogs & Cats 71-075 Hwy. 111, Rancho Mirage, 760-346-6103 www.dssbykat.com, 760-460-1047, Page 13. www.vcahospitals.com/rancho-mirage, Page 31.

The Canine Spa, see listing above in Grooming, , VCA - Valley Animal Medical Center Page 13.

46920 Jefferson St., Indio, 760-609-0833 www.vcavalleyemergency.com, Inside front cover.

The Grand Paw, see listing above in Grooming, Page 11.

Village Park Animal Hospital 51-230 Eisenhower Dr. La Quinta 760-564-3833 www.VillageParkAnimalHospital.com, Back Cover.

Fall 2015

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Desert Pet Companion 59

Pet Boutique and Spa

77920 Country Club Dr., Palm Desert, CA (in the EoS Fitness Plaza) 760

345-8494

this Mentioneceive ad and r A Retail

rchase 10% off Pu Full f AGroom OR $5 of Store See ils* for deta

Precision •Grooming Onsite

-Including scissor cuts and cats!

Cat • Certified Groomer

• Expanded Nutrition Offerings

*Discount available only at Country Club location

A Gift Store for Pet Lovers

789 South Palm Canyon, Palm Springs, CA 760

327-7747

Visit o Palm S ur Locatio prings nf pet acc or gifts, e and fas ssories h your fa ion for v furry f orite riend!

Fine Art & Collectibles Authorized Dealer of Sandicast, Sojos, & Ruffwear

www.ColdNoseWarmHeart.com