Feb/April 2013
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The
Trouble With
Teeth By Lillian Roberts, DVM, Country Club Animal Clinic, Palm Desert
A
ll normal dogs and cats start life with teeth, which erupt (emerge from the gums) at a young age. That’s about the only generalized truth there is regarding pets and their teeth. And you will notice that even this statement is qualified – it’s not impossible for a pet to be born without teeth! But beyond that basic truth, every pet is different. And vets will often differ in their recommendations for the same pet. Many pets don’t need more than one or two cleanings throughout their entire lives. Others might lose all their teeth through extraction at a young age due to severe gum disease. That’s why we have no rule to fit all pets. Most veterinarians include a visual dental exam as part of a routine checkup as long as the pet cooperates. We can tell at a glance if there is significant tartar build up, gum disease, jaw malformation, oral lumps or tumors, or other less-common things. Of course, some animals aren’t so easy to check! And some dental disease isn’t so easy to spot. 4 Desert Pet Companion
Traditionally, dental cleaning was always done by a veterinary technician, under general anesthesia. The veterinarian would then evaluate the gingiva (gums), probe for pockets, and extract any teeth that needed it. Over the past 15 years or so, dental x-rays have become the norm, such that taking x-rays of the teeth has become a routine and important part of the process. It may surprise you to learn that dogs rarely get cavities, but they do often get gingivitis that, untreated, eats into the bone supporting the teeth. Cats get unique ‘resorptive lesions’ that look like cavities but behave very differently, and can cause tremendous pain. Both dogs and cats are prone to abscesses of the tooth roots. These and other problems are impossible to fully evaluate without dental x-rays. X-rays require anesthesia, as of course do extractions, removal of lumps or tumors, and a number of other potentially painful treatments that could be needed. Recently, with the advent of illegal “teeth cleaning” being offered by
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Feb-April 2013
Independently owned since 1996
Country Club Animal Clinic welcomes SCOTT PAPAS, DVM and LAURA HUSTON, DVM!
Dr. Laura Huston caring for Coachella Valley pets since 2002, now at Country Club Animal Clinic!
Dr. Lillian Roberts opened Country Club Animal Clinic in 1996, providing personalized service to pet owners.
Dr. Scott Papas brings nearly 40 years of experience in dog and cat practice.
Country Club Animal set the pace with exceptional care for our patients and their people! 36869 Cook St. Suite 103, Palm Desert, CA 92211 760-776-7555 www.countryclubdvm.com
some grooming parlors and pet stores, a great deal of confusion has arisen as to what is needed. The unfortunate truth is that most people offering this “service” either don’t recognize serious disease when they see it, or deliberately overlook it in their effort to keep your business. In addition, most don’t clean the spaces between the teeth, beneath the gums, and in the very back of the mouth. The result is that
gingivitis, periodontitis, fractures and even abscessed teeth go untreated while the owner feels the teeth are being well cared for. I recall one sweet-natured teenaged dog who had been receiving this “treatment” monthly until it was finally too painful to put up with it. By the time I saw him, he needed every single tooth to be removed, requiring prolonged anesthesia at an
Did You Know? Adult dogs normally have 42 teeth; cats have 32. The roots of a tooth are longer than the crown (visible surface) – this is to make the tooth stronger, like the roots of a tree. It can also make them very hard to extract! Pet teeth can have one, two, or even three roots. The small front teeth (incisors) are mostly used for scratching what itches. The large canines (‘fangs’) are for ripping and tearing – both food and other animals that are perceived as a threat – but also for picking things up and carrying them (toys, food, puppies or kittens). The back teeth are for chewing food. Pets don’t actually need teeth. Unless your pet is 6 Desert Pet Companion
hunting for prey, or fighting for its life, they are not a necessity! Since you provide their food and protect them from danger, they can get by easily without any teeth at all. For this reason, and for economics, badly diseased or damaged teeth are usually extracted even when advanced care might be able to save them. Small dogs, as a group, are more likely to have dental problems than large dogs. In my experience, miniature Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, Poodles, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are among the worst when it comes to gum disease. Surprisingly, many Shih Tzu’s have relatively healthy teeth despite crowding and lack of interest in chewing. www.DesertPetCompanion.com
Large dogs are more likely to have tooth fractures, and the most common tooth to be fractured is the large upper molar. This most commonly happens while chewing on a hard object such as real bones, rocks, or cow hooves. Terriers as a group are also prone to this -- even though most are smaller dogs, they like to chew. Among cats, purebreds are more likely than non-purebreds to have problems. Some breeds (Abyssinians, Persians) are more prone than others to have severe dental disease. The most common problems tend to start in young adult cats and get worse with age.
Feb-April 2013
advanced age. This might have been avoided completely had he been treated by a veterinarian all along. Many veterinary offices now offer a veterinary-supervised “non-anesthetic dental prophy” that may serve to confuse even more. My practice, Country Club Animal Clinic, is one that does so. We don’t see this as an alternative to the more traditional anesthetic procedure, but rather as an additional service that allows us to maintain a healthier mouth in between procedures, often saving teeth that might otherwise be lost, catching problems earlier, and extending the interval between anesthetic procedures. You may know that we also have veterinarians who specialize in treating pet dental disease! This requires years
of advanced training beyond vet school. Here in the desert, Dr Judy Yee offers root canals and other advanced salvage procedures for pet owners willing to go to greater lengths to preserve teeth in certain conditions. I’ve seen photos, for example, of working police dogs and Bengal Tigers with gold fangs! Of course those are the exception, but the large canine tooth (“fang”) is very vulnerable to trauma and is the most common tooth to get a root canal and restoration. Your dog or cat can’t tell you when they have a problem, of course. But there are some clues you can watch for, and things you can do at home to improve your pet’s oral health. Symptoms of dental disease in pets: Bad breath, chewing only on one side,
Thank You Dr. Roberts and Staff for your special care of our beloved Apollo.
We will miss him but his joy and love will always shine in our home.
Robert, Carol and TzuHsi.
Feb-Apr 2013
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Desert Pet Companion 7
lip-smacking or –licking, rubbing or pawing at the face, or strong resistance to an attempt to look in the mouth. None of these is certain – any one of them might be caused by something unrelated, but if you notice any of these things in a pet that did not do it before, the pet should be checked by your vet as soon as possible. Ways to help: Train your pet to allow their face to be handled. Learn to look in their mouth, and do it regularly. The best way to do this isn’t by prying the mouth wide open, but rather lifting the upper lip and retracting the lower lip so you can see the outside surface of the tooth. This should be smooth and shiny white, and the surface of the gums should be smooth and pink – except, of course, in dogs with black-pigmented gums. Take a deep sniff to get a sense of what’s normal – you can’t expect mintyfresh breath, but you shouldn’t smell anything rotten or really foul, either. Home care: If you are willing and able to brush your pet’s teeth, this is not only great for the teeth, but pets actually enjoy it and you’ll catch problems early if they arise. You should use a soft-bristled brush or finger brush, and toothpaste designed for pets. But if, like most people, this just isn’t part of your day, there are still several options that might work for you. Chewy toys and treats: Dogs (and cats) that enjoy chewing (and are allowed to do so) will have healthier teeth than those who don’t. It’s a natural instinct for dogs to chew on bones. While most vets don’t recommend real bones, there are many excellent substitutes that can promote health not just for the teeth, but the gums, bones and muscles of the jaw. This is the best overall dental health tool there is. Dogs who chew for 20 minutes or so at least 3 times a week will take better care of their own teeth than you could if you tried. This habit can be encouraged to some extent by choosing very appealing objects such as 8 Desert Pet Companion
bones (raw), flavored rawhide chews, and commercial products such as Greenies, Dentabones, and the many other products on the market. It may take some trial and error to find something your dog likes. Most cats are still harder to please, but a number of tartar-control treats are available. An important note: Dogs who swallow treats such as Greenies whole are not helping their teeth! These products are designed to work while the dog chews. This is a reason why dental treats are less effective in some cats – many gulp their food without chewing, even including some treats that seem impossibly large! Other products: A number of dental sprays, gels, rinses, and water additives are being marketed, both through veterinarians and pet supply stores. Some are more effective than others. These are generally designed to coat the teeth to prevent plaque from adhering to the surface. They are less effective than brushing or chewing, but may decrease the amount of tartar that builds up, and extend the interval between cleanings. There is no product on the market that will dissolve tartar once it has already formed! As nice as it sounds on TV, it just doesn’t work. Sadly, I recently extracted every single tooth from the mouth of a dog who had been receiving a widely-advertised sprayon product every day for the past two years! When it comes to your pet’s health, if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned in this article, make an appointment with your vet. Dental diseases can become infections in the blood that can eventually lead to death. Dogs and cats should be checked by their veterinarian at least once a year, and this checkup should include an examination of the teeth. 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.
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Feb-April 2013
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9
Products for healthier teeth & gums
Most veterinarians and pet care professionals agree that providing your dogs and cats with treats that promote chewing have a better chance of having healthier teeth and gums. Other manufacturers also provide similar products. Check with your local, independent pet store for a variety of choices. * Indicates the products have received the Veterinary Oral Health Council seal of approval.
GREENIES® Dental Chews* are clinically proven to clean dog’s teeth by fighting both plaque and tartar buildup, freshening breath and maintaining healthier teeth and gums. GREENIES® Dental Chews are naturally made with added vitamins, minerals, taurine, and chlorophyll (sodium copper chlorophyllin) to provide a complete oral care, and offer a nutritionally complete and balanced blend of highly soluble and digestible proteins for adult dogs based on AAFCO recommendations. Available for both cats and dogs. Manufacturers Guarantee: If you or your dog isn’t 100% satisfied, you’ll receive your money back.
Primal Pet Foods, Inc. Recreational Bones are 100% human-grade, antibiotic and steroid free without added hormones. Recreational Bones are procured from ranches in the U.S. Recreational bones offer an excellent method for dogs to exercise their jaws, massage their gums and clean their teeth while consuming amino and essential fatty acids that promote a superior quality of health. Available in several sizes and types including beef, buffalo, lamb, and venison. Primal recreational bones are NOT to be completely consumed and should always be fed under the supervision of a human being. For more information: www.primalpetfoods.com 10 Desert Pet Companion
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Feb-April 2013
Healthy Mouth, LLC: ESSENTIAL™ healthymouth™ antiplaque water additive, anti-plaque gel, and anti-plaque spray*helps control plaque for dogs’ and cats’ teeth. The products contain natural ingredients and organic actives helping prevent the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth, thereby reducing plaque and keeping the mouth cleaner. It also coats the buccal cavity of the animal to provide continuous protection against the accumulation of bacteria. The product blends at least two active ingredients which mediate the reduction of plaque in the animal’s mouth. A natural enzyme: papain, effectively reduces the build up of proteins in the mouth and zinc gluconate operates as an antibacterial agent. The combination of these two ingredients effectively reduces bacterial proliferation. The manufacturer states that the product can extend the benefits of professional dental care, and equilibration, but does not replace it. Pet owners should have a pet dental program that begins with a veterinarian examination followed by professional care as the foundation for owners to then commence a daily home dental care program with the product.
Primal Pet Foods, Inc. Raw Meaty Bones are 100% human-grade, antibiotic and steroid free without added hormones. Raw Meaty Bones are procured from ranches in the U.S. Primal Pet Foods carries a full line of raw meaty bones for dogs and cats to have as part of their daily feeding or as a treat to enhance their tooth, gum and jaw health. Raw meaty bones are to be completely consumed. These bones are considered “soft bones” and do not splinter. Primal raw meaty bones should always be fed under the supervision of a human being so as to ensure your pet does not consume these bone(s) too quickly. For more information: www.primalpetfoods.com Feb-Apr 2013
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Desert Pet Companion 11
Gum Disease in Cats O
Reviewed by Rebecca Diaz, DVM, The Cat Clinic
ne of the most common diseases to affect cats is gum disease, otherwise known as periodontal disease. It is estimated that over 80 percent of cats, two years old and older, have some form of gum disease. Sometimes cats younger than one-year-old have symptoms. The two forms of the disease are gingivitis and periodontitis and both begin when calculus and plaque are deposited near the gum line on cat’s teeth. Plaque is a biofilm made mostly of bacteria (including streptococcus) which is sticky and adheres to teeth. Plaque is difficult to see with the naked eye. Over time, if the plaque isn’t brushed off or otherwise removed, it combines with food debris, saliva, and minerals and becomes hardened and forms tartar. Tartar, or calculus, is found along the gingiva (gum line) and eventually inflames the gums. It is the build-up of tartar on teeth that cause gingivitis. Gingivitis can be reversed with proper treatment by your veterinarian. Symptoms of gingivitis include: bad breath red, swollen and painful gums gums which easily bleed when gently rubbed 12 Desert Pet Companion
receding gums appetite loss yellow deposits on teeth drooling Occasionally, gum infections are symptoms of other diseases including nutritional disorders, feline panleukopenia, feline viral respiratory disease complex, kidney and liver failure, and immune disorders. Treatment for gingivitis professional cleaning by a veterinarian home dental care program, including regular teeth brushing special diets or supplements may be necessary to help prevent future gingivitis If gingivitis is left untreated, the tartar continues to grow and deposit under the gum line and the progression of the disease may cause periodontitis. Bacteria in the plaque produce toxins and can irritate the gums. An inflammatory response can cause destruction of the gingiva, cementum, alveolar bone and periodontal ligament that support the teeth. Spaces form between the teeth and gums and become infected. Abscesses of the teeth or roots can be caused by periodontitis. Signs of periodontitis may include:
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bad breath eating habits change or appetite is diminished since it hurts to chew weight loss ungroomed appearance loose teeth or teeth have fallen out tartar deposits pus from gums Periodontitis is usually irreversible; however, it can be treated. Once damage to teeth roots have occurred, it is permanent. Also, the bacteria can be absorbed by the gums and cause other serious diseases. Treatment for periodontitis professional cleaning by a veterinarian which may include teeth extraction antibiotics after surgery follow-up home dental care program, including regular teeth brushing
Feb-Apr 2013
special diets or supplements might be necessary to help prevent future degeneration of teeth Your cat’s health regimen should include dental hygiene, good nutrition and exercise. Your veterinarian can help show you how to brush your cat’s teeth. A step-by-step explanation of brushing your cat’s teeth is available at: www.healthypet.com/ PetCare/PetCareArticle. aspx?title=Brushing_ Your_Pets_Teeth. Cat teeth bruising videos are available on YouTube. Dr. Rebecca Diaz, DVM is the owner of The Cat Clinic, a feline-only veterinary clinic located at 67870 Vista Chino, Cathedral City. 760-325-3400, www.catcitycat.com
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Desert Pet Companion 13
How to Walk Your Dog on a Leash By Lori Wainio-Carman, Dream Dogs
F
orging ahead is the biggest problem when walking dogs on leash. Dogs pull on a leash for a variety of reasons: pulling is enjoyable, the owner lets the dog pull, and the owner follows along with it. Once the leash is tightened, your dog is not paying attention to you; it is paying attention to its nose. When a leash is tightened you no longer have control of your dog. This is basic physics. Just as when you have a fish on the end of your line, you have no control as to which direction the fish will pull, your only recourse is to reel it in. Your dog is in control at this point and is being reinforced because pulling is getting him or her to where it wants to be.
1 2 3
14 Desert Pet Companion
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First your dog must learn to be in relation to you, not you to it. A flexilead or retractable lead should not be used if you want to teach your dog to walk next to you on a loose leash. The mechanics of these devices teach a dog to pull and to pull hard. Using a six-foot leash, start by rewarding your dog for being in the position that you want it in. Reward your dog quickly and often for staying in position. When you dog forges out in front of you stop and wait. Encourage it to come back to you. Give praise immediately when your dog looks at you, inviting him/her to come back to your side as you take a few steps back toward where the two of you just came from. Then, turn back the direction you were headed and ask your dog to “sit.” Reward it once the sit happens. By stopping when your dog hits the end, you are teaching it
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16 Desert Pet Companion
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When your dog forges ahead
• Stop, wait for it to look back at you • Invite it back to your side • Once back, have it sit • Reward it immediately
that if it forges forward it won’t get to go anywhere. When your dog learns that the fastest way to point B involves a loose leash, only good things will happen when it is with you by your side. So, lighten up and brighten up!! Give your dog lots of eye contact, praise and rewards when it is by your side. It is important for you to stay mentally connected to your dog. You need to be more exciting than everything else in his world. This can be a fun behavior to work on. Your dog needs to be able to walk on a loose leash and learn to pay attention to you before you can expect it to “heel on leash.” Remember to praise your dog! If it’s not fun for you, it’s not fun for him. Lori Wainio-Carman, VSPDT, professional dog trainer and owner of Dream Dogs has been successfully training for over 17 years. 760899-7272 www.dreamdogs.com, www.Positively.com Feb-Apr 2013
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Desert Pet Companion 17
Cat Shows – Not Just for Pedigreed Cats
P
alm Springs was host to a Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) Cat Show in mid-January. Held at the Palm Springs Leisure Center, the Allbreed Cat Show, sponsored by San Diego Cat Fanciers, attracted both local and out-of-state cat owners. Cat shows set themselves apart from dog shows in several ways. Where dog shows are very specific as to breed standards and categories with a single dog winning overall, cat shows are judged on a variety of things that may not have anything to do with their breed. A single cat can compete in several different cat-egories (sorry), such as color, coat length, age, and gender as well as breed. In essence, the same cat can be entered in several shows and could win a “Best” ribbon from one judge 18 Desert Pet Companion
and then, in a different ring, not win anything, and then place again with another judge. CFA recognizes 39 breeds of cats. The American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA) recognizes 53 breeds and The International Cat Association (TICA) recognizes 55 cat breeds. All three associations include “household” cats, i.e., not pedigreed cats in their competitions. At a CFA Cat Show, the competition categories include: Kitten competition – unaltered or altered, pedigreed kittens between the ages of four and eight months. Championship competition – unaltered, pedigreed cats over the age of eight months. Premiership competition – altered, pedi-
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Feb-April 2013
greed cats over the age of eight months. Provisional competition – breeds that have not yet achieved championship status. Miscellaneous competition – breeds not yet accepted for Provisional status, but accepted for registration and showing in the Miscellaneous Class. Veteran Class – any male or female, altered or unaltered, not younger than seven years on the opening day of the show that if the owner chose to, could otherwise be shown in the championship or premiership classes. Household Pet competition – all random bred or non-pedigreed cats. Entries must have all their physical properties (some shows now allow pets with missing limbs), and must not be declawed. Kittens must be older than four months on the opening day of the show and those entries older than eight months must be neutered or spayed. Pedigreed cats with disqualifying features are eligible to be entered in the Household Pet Class.*
Our mission is to help keep pets healthy by providing healthy pet food & treat choices Free Nurse Consultation Available
There is also a Junior Showmanship class for 8 to 15 year old young people. Another competition class is Feline Agility for cats that love to run and jump! Additional information about feline agility is available atagility.cfa.org.
Judging Individual shows are classified as either “allbreed” or “specialty.” In an allbreed show, all cats, regardless of coat length or type, compete for various awards. In a specialty show, only those cats of similar coat length (or type) compete for awards. A cat older than eight months is considered an adult and begins his show career in the Open Class (in either the Championship or Premiership) competition. In the ring, a judge will handle all of the Open Class cats – usually males first. He awards 1st through 3rd place ribbons to the overall winners and also 1st through 3rd place ribbons for each gender. These are called “Winner’s ribbons.” Once a cat has been awarded six Winners ribbons it becomes a Champion or Premier, depending on its age. After judging the Open Class, the judge will move on to the Champions or Premiers of a particular color group (males compete with males Feb-Apr 2013
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and females with females). Since these divisions are for pedigreed cats, each cat is judged according to a written standard for its breed. Awards are given based on which cat is closest to the breed standard. The top ten cats are chosen for a finals round, and from those top ten cats, a “Best Cat in Show” is selected. Household Pets are judged in one group regardless of sex, age, coat length or color. Household Pets are judged simply for their uniqueness and not held to a written standard. Each Household Pet reflecting good health and vitality receives a Merit Award.
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Desert Pet Companion 19
17th Annual
Sunday, March 24, 2013
ly! rienD Dog-F
Ruth Hardy Park / Palm Springs, CA
.
MEN’S 5K 7:30am WOMEN’S 5K 8:15am EXPO 7:00 - 11:00am
Benefits Jody Klein Breast Cancer Fund
kleinclarksports.com 760-324-7069
Vicky Santos, Hospital Spectators and judging, but cannot touch Manager at VCA Desert Watching a cat show is a or pet the cats without the Animal Hospital, supervised fun and educational experiowner’s permission. Photos interested local teens from ence. The judging happens are permitted, but again, askRaymond Cree Middle quickly. A judge will take a cat ing permission is suggested. School, Palm Springs High and Desert Hot Springs out of the benching cage, set it Most exhibitors are busy getHigh who worked as Cat on a judging table, and examting their cats ready for the Show Stewards. The teens ine it from nose to tail. He show and don’t want to be volunteered their time to dangles a toy in front of the interrupted. However, in most make sure the cats had clean, germ-free cages cat and watches its reaction. cases during downtime, ownat the judging ring. They The judge makes notations ers can be very approachable also assisted with various on his judging sheet, and then and like to talk about their tasks to help the Show run puts the cat back in the benchcats, particularly if they are smoothly. Vicky said the ing cage. He then sprays the breeders of a type of cat you teens volunteer because they have an interest in table with a cleanser, wipes are interested in. In some animals and the opportuthe table down and cleans his cases, they will have literature nity gives them a chance to hands. Total elapsed time is on the breed they specialize in. see and learn about many about two minutes. He then cat breeds. Next Local Cat Show repeats the process with the If you want to see what a rest of the cats in the show. Occasionally, a judge will make a specific com- Cat Show is all about, the next local show is on ment about the breed or cat. When the ribbons April 27-28 at the Palm Springs Leisure Center, are being presented, the judge often explains 401 S Pavilion Way. Entry Clerk: Rhonda Avery, P.O. Box 6700, Oxnard, CA 93012. 805his choices. A spectator is welcome to watch the show 443-1311. Email: rhonda.avery@hotmail.com
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Desert Pet Companion 21
The Lowdown on Dog Bites By Meredith Kennedy DVM - VCA Valley Animal Medical Center & Emergency Hospital
22 Desert Pet Companion
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Feb-April 2013
D
ogs are predators and have evolved quite successfully by using their strong teeth and powerful jaws for feeding and defending themselves. Even the quietest and gentlest of dogs is capable of using what nature has given them if they feel threatened enough. What happens when dogs bite, and how to treat the resulting injuries, goes hand-in-hand with understanding why they bite, and how to prevent dog bites and reduce incidents of injury. Why do dogs bite? Dogs bite in reaction to threats: physical harm to themselves or their ‘pack,’ intruders on their territory, or loss of food or possessions. It’s not always easy for people to tell what dogs see as threats, so understanding dog behavior is important. Dogs also bite to establish dominance over other dogs, but this can extend to human beings if a dog perceives itself to be the most dominant member of their household ‘pack.’ Training and socializing are good ways to avoid these kinds of problems. What happens when a dog gets bitten? In addition to puncture wounds caused by the teeth, a dog’s jaws exert a lot of pressure, causing crushing and bruising injuries to the underlying tissues. So even if a dog bite looks Feb-Apr 2013
minor, there may be deep tissue trauma which could become a problem days or even weeks after the injury. Having bite wounds attended to by medical professionals (human and veterinary) is important for assessment, cleaning, and treatment, which usually includes antibiotics. More severe bite wounds may need intravenous fluids and antibiotics, x-rays, blood work, hospitalization and surgical repair. Some may require further wound care later on if the wounds become infected or necrotic (damaged or dying tissue). What about rabies? All dogs are required by law to be vaccinated against rabies. This is a viral infection of the brain, which can be transmitted by the bite of an infected animal. Rabies infection is fatal, so it’s extremely important that all dogs and cats be properly vaccinated. Beware of getting a young puppy from someone who assures you she’s ‘had all her shots.’ Rabies vaccination is done at four months of age by a licensed veterinarian, who provides an official certificate. If your dog bites someone and you can’t produce proof of rabies vaccination, your dog may be impounded for quarantine. How can I prevent dog bites? Most dogs www.DesertPetCompanion.com
will actually announce when they are about to bite. Learning to recognize warning signs is essential, as is supervising children who are around dogs. These signs can be growling, baring teeth, hackles raised and aggressive posturing. Children don’t know what to watch for, and may keep pushing and stressing dogs beyond their limits. Dogs in any strange, unusual or stressful situations should be watched carefully, kept on a leash, and calmed with quiet reassurance. Resist the urge to ‘baby’ a nervous or aggressive dog, as this does not usually help them to calm down. Telling a dog he’s a ‘good boy’ when he’s overexcited and growling does not communicate to him that he should relax and be calm, it only serves to tell him the behavior he’s exhibiting is acceptable. Have him on a leash, give him a firm command to sit, and then praise him for doing it— this redirects his attention back to you, and you are now able to praise him for good behavior. Why does obedience training help to reduce aggressive behavior? Because left to their own devices (i.e., no guidance or direction), dogs will be dogs. They may fight to communicate with each other for territory, resources, mates, etc. Desert Pet Companion 23
Medical Care for Dog Bites Besides puncture wounds created by the teeth, there may be other injuries associated with dog bites, so having all wounds examined and treated by your veterinarian is recommended since some injuries may not be obvious. Puncture Wounds: Some wounds may be difficult to find without clipping and cleaning, sometimes under sedation and pain medication. Larger wounds may need suturing, and all wounds should be clipped and thoroughly cleaned. Bite wounds in areas of loose skin may need a drain tube, to help the wound drain, allowing it to heal from the inside out and preventing abscess formation. No Puncture Wounds: Even without visible puncture wounds, most dogs ‘shake’ their opponents when fighting, so there may be deep tissue bruising or even internal trauma leading to life-threatening conditions such as ‘pneumothorax’ and ‘hemoabdomen’, described below. Chest Trauma: Commonly seen when small dogs are bitten and shaken by large dogs; this is when airways are ruptured in the lungs and free air present inside the chest (Pneumothorax). There may also be bruising of the lungs, collapsed lungs, and/ or penetrating wounds into the chest, with bleeding and contamination. All injuries to the chest require immediate medical attention. Abdominal Trauma: Internal bleeding may be present, especially if a smaller dog has been picked up by a large one. There may be bleeding around the kidneys or spleen, and a traumatic hernia may occur if the abdominal wall has been torn. Some of these injuries may need emergency surgery to repair. Tissue Necrosis: Because of the crushing and shaking injuries to deep tissues in more severe dog bites, there may be ‘necrosis,’ or death of tissues, which becomes apparent a week or two after the attack. This could need ‘debridement’ or surgically cleaning and removing the dead and damaged tissues under anesthesia. Having bite wounds monitored and rechecked by your veterinarian is recommended for follow-through. Sepsis: When wounds become infected, they may become serious enough for bacteria to spill over into the bloodstream, resulting in a life-threatening condition called sepsis, septic shock or septicemia. Thorough wound care at the time of injury is essential for minimizing the risk of sepsis, and hospitalization on intravenous fluids and intravenous antibiotics may be recommended for more serious injuries, to try to prevent sepsis and promote healing. All dog bite wounds should be evaluated by a veterinarian, to check for serious injury. Clipping, cleaning and antibiotics may be all that’s needed, but sometimes problems can come up which might not be obvious at home. 24 Desert Pet Companion
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Training redirects their attention to you, as the leader, so you can modify their behavior and let them know what’s expected of them. Attending classes with your puppy or dog is a great way to establish a strong bond and socialize your dog with other dogs and people. A welltrained, well-socialized dog is less likely to have behavioral problems resulting in aggression and dog bites. Preventing dogs biting other dogs comes from understanding pack behavior and territoriality. Dogs have a natural tendency to fight and bite each other, so introducing new dogs into a household slowly and with supervision is essential. New dogs in a household should not be left alone with each other, as the tensions involved with establishing territory and position may escalate when you’re not there holding their attention. Remember, fighting among dogs is a natural occurrence— we are asking them to curtail this and be less aggressive with each other, so being the source of strong leadership a pack leader would provide is important. Obedience training can really do a lot for creating strong, positive bonds between dogs and their people, and Feb-April 2013
in establishing routines, expectations and reliable behavior. Spaying and neutering at a young age helps prevent the development of the aggressive behaviors associated with estrus and mating. Small dogs always get the worst of it in dog fights. All too often those of us who work on emergencies see the tragic results when small-breed male dogs get into fights with larger intact males. Unfortunately, they feel a natural urge to fight and never realize that at ten or twelve pounds they will lose against a big dog. Neutering males at an older age, in attempt to calm their aggressive behavior, has mixed results if they’ve already gotten into the habit of fighting. Spaying and neutering as puppies or young dogs is most Feb-Apr 2013
effective. Avoiding aggressive behavior that can lead to dog bites is a result of understanding their behavior. Teaching children how to recognize canine aggression, training, socializing, and early spay and neutering, as well as supervising dogs when they are with
other dogs are all good ways to plan ahead and keep from being bitten. VCA Valley Animal Medical Center is a 24-hour full service and emergency animal medical center. It is located at 46920 Jefferson Street, Indio, (760) 609-0498 www. vcavalleyemergency.com
Stopping a dog fight Extreme caution should be used when stopping a dog fight. Dogs can redirect their aggression towards a human if the dog is grabbed by the collar or body. It’s a natural reflex of the dog to turn and bite. Many fights are over within a few seconds and many are harmless but noisy. If your dog is involved in a fight, stay calm and think before acting. Some ways of stopping a fight include: • Make a loud and sudden noise to startle the dogs • Spray the dogs with water or dump a big bowl of water over their heads • Spray a blast of a citronella spray like Direct Stop® or SprayShield™ at the dogs noses (don’t get you hands too close). Citronella spray can also help deter an aggressive dog before it attacks • Put a flat, large object between the dogs (plywood, babygate, folded lawnchair, for example).
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Desert Pet Companion 25
Cove:r Dog
Tyson Nikki
26 Desert Pet Companion
is our cover dog this issue. The wonderful photos you see here and on the cover were submitted by Tyson’s owner, Patrick Ketchum. Patrick, a local Palm Springs photographer, specializes in real estate photography but also enjoys taking photographs of Tyson and his pals. Contact Patrick at 760-409-3970 or www.KetchumPhotography.com
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Photographs Š Patrick Ketchum
Kimba
Tyson & Buster Feb-Apr 2013
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Desert Pet Companion 27
Part Three of a Multi-Issue Series
First Aid for Your Four-Legged Family Members By Dr. Kevin M. Fenton DVM, VCA All Creatures Animal Hospital
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n our Oct/Nov issue, Dr. Fenton wrote about backyard hazards and the Dec/ Jan issue was about handling wounds and the importance of having a first aid kit available. The articles are reprinted on our website. Being desert dwellers, our back yards can harbor snakes. The more common local snakes, like the gopher snake and rosy boa, are non-venomous and pose no real threat. The rattlesnake,
on the other hand, is a very different story. Most snakes, including the rattler, will try to avoid confrontations, but some of our dogs can be pretty insistent. Bites will frequently be on the face, and can cause severe swelling and intense pain that progress very rapidly. If you witness a confrontation, don’t try to capture or kill the snake. We don’t want you to get bit and we don’t want to, either! If easily done, take a
Pet First Aid Kit Kevin Tweezers Dr. Fenton, DVM, is one of the doctors Magnifying glass Animal Hospital, which is at VCA All Creatures Cotton baby socks located at 78-359 Highway 111, La Quinta, CA, (760) 564-1154.antibiotic ointment Neosporin Bandaging material {5 Telfa pads, 5 cotton rolls, 5 gauze rolls, 5 conform tape rolls/small roll of duct tape, 2 ace bandages, 5 sanitary napkins) Scissors with blunted tips Digital thermometer Comb (great for removing cactus burrs) Saline eye flush Clean towel and sheet (light blanket) Tee shirt 28 Desert Pet Companion
Telephone number and directions to nearest emergency clinic Kid’s syringe Ice pack Apis 30 C (bee stings, insect bites allergic reactions, red, swollen, hot) Lachesis 30 C (snake bites, severe swelling, blue-purplish bruising, intense pain) Belladonna 30 C (heat stroke, high temperatures, glazed eyes, disorientation) Arnica 30 C (any trauma, bite wounds, pain, fear, shock) Benadryl (1mg per pound)
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picture of the snake with your phone for identification. Remember to stay calm. We save 95% of dogs bitten by rattlesnakes. Take a deep breath, put your dog in the car and get on your way to the vet. If you are hiking, your kit will have a sheet that you can use as a stretcher to carry your friend to the car to minimize the pain and stress of walking. Do not try sucking out the venom or cutting open the bite. Tourniquets can sometimes cause more problems than they solve. Remember, bites can be very painful, even the supposed “dry bite” with minimal envenomation. For those who hike a lot, talk with your vet about the “rattlesnake vaccine” as a proactive measure to help in the event of a bite. In your kit you will have the homeopathic remedy Lachesis 30C. Mix three pellets with water and give it every 15 minutes while in transport to the vet. If it is a facial bite with swelling and pain, mix the remedy and draw it up with a children’s syringe that you can get at the drugstore (it’s in your kit) and squirt it on the inner part of the swollen lips. For ease of administration, fill the entire syringe with the mixture and squirt 1CC each time. Remember, try to keep both yourself and your buddy calm... take a deep breath, breath out… Ohmm!!
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 Cats • Dogs Exotics • Pocket Pets Rabbits • Reptiles
78359 Highway 111, La Quinta (In the Vons Shopping Center)
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To the Building In Front of Vons: 78-267 Hwy. 111
www.vcahospitals.com/all-creatures-ca
To avoid some snake problems, rattlesnake aversion classes are offered by many clinics and training centers throughout the valley. Dr. Kevin Fenton, DVM, is one of the doctors at VCA All Creatures Animal Hospital, which is located at 78-359 Highway 111, La Quinta, CA, (760) 564-1154.
Snake Avoidance Classes March 2nd & 9th Reservations only. March 2nd: Contact VCA - All Creatures Animal Hospital at 760-564-1154 March 9th: VCA - Contact Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital at 760-346-6103 To sign-up for the class and to get additional information about cost, contact the Hospitals. Snake vaccinations also offered for a small fee. For a review of the 2012 class, read DPCs Summer 2012 article (back issues are available on our website, as PDFs as a free download). Feb-Apr 2013
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Desert Pet Companion 29
Project Duroville From From aa blog blog by by JJ JJ Ruch, Ruch, edited for DPC by Geoff Winstead edited for DPC by Geoff Winstead
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ver the past year I have heard a lot about an Indian Reservation area named “Duroville.” Duroville can be equated to a third world slum. Many of the homes do not have heat, hot water or adequate living conditions. Some residents are barely surviving but doing the best that they can for themselves and their families. Most of them also have dogs, but conditions are so poor these animals must live outside on the streets. Most of the dogs are not spayed or neutered, so there is now a population explosion of animals having to live off of limited resources. Two years ago, dozens of pet rescue organizations went to Duroville to perform a mass spay and neuter operation. While hundreds of dogs were spayed and neutered, many were not due to lack of funding and resources. I recently decided to see for myself what was now happening in Duroville. Upon my arrival, dogs were coming out from everywhere; underneath cars, underneath rubbish, out of the bushes, sun bathing in the middle of the road, in their back yards, and anywhere else they could lie to feel safe. Some dogs were searching for food in trash cans and drinking what may or not have been water from puddles in the streets and trenches. Many appeared healthy. Many did not. There are now an estimated 800 dogs in the Duroville Indian Reservation known as Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians. After leaving Duroville, I thought to myself, I’ve got to help these people. The locals can barely care for themselves and their families, so the animals are suffering. Upon returning home, JJ put out a “mayday” for dog food and water donations, not money, to be delivered to the Save-A-Pet shelter with the goal of loading three trucks on January 14th full of food and water, take it to Duroville, feed the dogs and give the locals bags of food. While only a temporary fix, the idea was to count as 30 Desert Pet Companion
many dogs as possible while putting out food, supervise the situation to avoid fights and make a plan for further action. Duroville is rapidly becoming a deserted town that is being demolished as quickly as people leave. Less than one year ago, there were more than 2,000 residents. Today, only 30 families remain. Fifteen families are moving out by the end of the month. Another 15 families are refusing to vacate their homes. Soon, they will be forced out. There is large machinery waiting to take the already crumbling houses down. The residents are being moved to what is called “Mountain View Estates.” Up to two dogs are allowed there. However, they must weigh less than 25 pounds, have all their shots and proof of receiving them. The Torres Martinez Indian Reservation Administration does not care if the dogs are spayed or neutered, a policy that will guarantee more problems in the future. Duroville - Monday January 14th Upon arrival, we counted over 600 dogs that were starving. We went through over 1000 pounds of dog food! These dogs didn’t just need food, they needed medical attention! These abandoned dogs are becoming injured from the rubble of falling structures. Soon, these dogs will not have any source of shelter for protection. These dogs have been abandoned and left behind to fend for themselves with no source of clean water. Many of these dogs have turned wild, surviving on food from the trash that is left behind or turning on former pets, killing those that are weak as a source of food! What was a mercy feeding expedition now has to become a rescue operation! We’ve got to get these dogs out of here before they all die! That night, I contacted every rescue I knew of asking for help, asking that they save these dogs.
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of the day and night picking up dogs.” I asked, “Which rescues?” He would not release the information. I am working to find out which ones. There is money available to aid in the medical care and treatment of the rescued dogs. We know that about 100 dogs have been picked up by legitimate rescue organizations. The dogs that remain in Duroville have health related injuries such as broken legs. Many are limping and emaciated. We’ve got to get the remaining dogs out of there and get them help. Without rescue, death is certain. In the meantime, residents are continuing to move out of Duroville, leaving their dogs behind with the rubble.
On Tuesday, I met with radio host, David Wilson, at K-News 94.3, who interviewed me about the dogs of Duroville. He agreed to meet me there on Friday morning. The Torres Martinez Indian Reservation Administration has stated that it is okay for Animal Rescue Organizations to come in and rescue the abandoned dogs. However, they are refusing to allow the media in due to the conditions. Friday, January, 18 I traveled to Duroville on Friday morning to accomplish a few things: Meet with David Wilson to update the public on the progress and what’s going on in Duroville, and deliver more dog food with him, rescue a dog for Save-A-Pet Animal Shelter, and re-check the welfare of the other dogs. Just moments after we arrived in Duroville with Save-A-Pet, we found a suffering dog. We believe that with all of the demolition, rubble had fallen on her. She had about a 10” laceration on her abdomen, her back was broken in several places and her legs were paralyzed. We named her Hope, hoping that she would be able to survive. Sadly, upon getting her to Save-A-Pet’s veterinarian, Hope’s condition was so bad that she needed to be put to sleep. Later that morning, we met up with David Wilson. Just as we were beginning the interview, the Duroville Receiver showed up. I stopped to ask him a few questions, because today when we showed up in Duroville, we noticed there were a lot less dogs! When we came to feed the dogs on Monday, there were over 600 of them. Today, we estimated only 100 dogs were there. I asked the Receiver where all of the dogs had gone. He stated, “Rescues have been coming in the last several days at all hours
Editor’s Note: As we go to press there is an ever-changing situation in Duroville, which now has several government agencies involved. Please do not take it upon yourself to go to Duroville at this time, as you will be turned away by county sheriffs. To keep abreast of the situation we encourage you to visit JJ’s website and Loving All Animals Facebook site. Desert Pet Companion will post updates on its Facebook page as information becomes available. JJ Ruch, founder and owner of JWDogs Dog Training has spent many years in animal rescue and currently works with Save-A-Pet Pet Rescue. You can read more about him and his efforts to save the dogs of Duroville on his website at jwdogs.com. If anyone has any information as to which organizations picked up the missing 400 dogs or where they have gone, please contact JJ at JJ@JWDogs.com.
The Keys to Success in Dog Training are… At JWDogs, we do NOT use chokers, shockers, e-collars, or any other harmful gear to force your dog to obey! We want training to be fun for you and your dog.
Types of Training Available • Public group classes • One-hour sessions • Private In-Home Training • Behavior Modification
Over 10 years Training Experience JWDogs Works With Dogs In Need Who Live In Shelters JWDogs Works with 30-50 dogs each month
Do you need help figuring which would best suit your needs? Contact us today and we’ll help. Call 760.567.4030 www.JWDOGS.com
Feb-Apr 2013
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Desert Pet Companion 31
An Update on Heartworms By Dr. Robert B. Reed, DVM, MSES, MPA
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iving in the desert, we sometimes overlook the significance of heartworms in dogs, but in many parts of the country heartworm disease is a very real threat, requiring vigilant monitoring and constant protection. We in the Coachella Valley are fortunate, at least for now, to face a less imminent danger than most, yet the risk to our pets is not completely absent, and it is worth taking a few minutes to review how and why heartworms can be a problem, even here.
Heartworm Disease and Transmission Unlike more common parasitic worms that live in the intestines, heartworms inhabit the bloodstream, ultimately settling in the pulmonary arteries and the heart. An infected dog usually develops heart disease, which leads to death if left untreated. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, which largely explains their historic low prevalence in the desert. Expansion of our communities, however, creates additional environments where mosquitoes can 32 Desert Pet Companion
proliferate. The growth in human population that follows can bring dogs from more heartworm endemic areas that may, without anyone knowing, carry heartworms. Canine carriers of heartworms provide the source for mosquitoes to acquire the infection and transmit it to unprotected dogs. Studies in other areas have shown that once heartworms have become established in local wildlife (coyote) and stray dog populations, they become virtually impossible to eradicate. Alarmingly, within the last few years veterinarians have found heartworms in several dogs that have never left the Coachella Valley. The source of those infections remains unknown.
Preventing Heartworms With these concerns in mind, desert veterinarians are increasingly recommending heartworm preventive medications. Some of these products are given orally and some topically, but all share the need for monthly administration. Heartworms take about six months to develop into adults
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• A free exam certificate for every contestant – worth $67! • A welcome package full of goodies and vital nutritional information for every contestant! • A free toenail trim at every weigh-in! • A photo of your cuddly cat posted in our waiting room and lots of support and encouragement! • A Purr-Fect Figure Best Care Package for the winner -includes an exam, bloodwork, urinalysis, fecal test,
and only pose a health risk if they are allowed to mature. Providing treatment monthly ensures that even if an infected mosquito bites your dog, the medication kills the worm while it remains in its vulnerable larval form. The window of opportunity for killing them as larvae is just a little more than 30 days, which accounts for the once monthly treatment regimen. For optimum protection and safety, the American Heartworm Society (AHS) recommends that all dogs over 7 months of age receive a blood test for adult heartworms before starting heartworm prevention, and then annually while receiving prevention. The AHS recommendations stem from three observations: 1) Although dogs with mature heartworms can be treated, eliminating adult heartworms
34 Desert Pet Companion
requires therapy very different from preventing infection; 2) Giving heartworm preventive medication to a dog with adult heartworms carries potential health risks; and, 3) Even the best forms of heartworm prevention are only about 96% effective, so protecting against the health effects of heartworm infection requires monitoring, even for dogs receiving prevention.
The MDR-1 Mutation For years, owners and breeders of Collies, Australian Shepherds, Shelties and a few other breeds have worried that many individuals in those breeds show an unusual sensitivity to the active ingredients in heartworm preventive products, most notably Ivermectin. Researchers at the Veterinary College of Washing-
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ton State University have discovered that these individuals have inherited a mutation in a location identified as the multidrug resistant gene (MDR-1).Normally, the MDR-1 gene provides the code for a protein that protects the brain from the unwanted effects of a variety of drugs, including all the commonly used forms of heartworm prevention. Fortunately, the toxic dose of Ivermectin and related compounds, even for carriers of the MDR-1 mutation, is roughly ten times the dose used for heartworm prevention, and studies have demonstrated its safety in affected dogs. The need for precaution remains, however, when Ivermectin is used at higher doses to treat other conditions, such as mange. More information on the MDR-1 mutation and how to test your dog is available through Washington State University at www.vetmed.wsu.edu/vcpl.
Staying Proactive The geographic progression of heartworm disease into previously unaffected areas and the recognition of the MDR-1 mutation underscore the need for veterinary medicine to evolve as situations change. What we see today as ideal preventive care in the Coachella Valley is not the same as it was ten years ago and it will likely be different ten years from now. By proactively addressing the heartworm problem today, we not only optimize our pets’ current health care, but also alleviate one of the threats they may face in the future. Robert Reed, DVM, MPA, MSES is the Medical Director at VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital located at 71-075 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, CA. 1-760-346-6103. Visit www.vcahospitals.com/rancho-mirage
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Is Artificial Grass Right for You? Part One of a Two Part Series
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ard work. Just mention the word in a crowd and you’ll hear a collective groan. But we all know it’s a necessary evil if you’re a homeowner. It’s the only way to achieve that “curb appeal” that reflects your pride of ownership, makes your home a place you can be proud of. But for many of us, finding a way to cut down on yard work while still maintaining that curb appeal is a mission. Here in the desert, you’ll find that many people turn to gravel or stone landscaping to avoid breaking out the lawnmower every Saturday. You’ll see yards without a single blade of grass, just a palette of muted tans, browns, and grays where stone meets gravel or sand. The look can be beautiful, but for some of us, a yard just isn’t a yard unless it’s got some green grass. This is particularly true for dog owners, who not only might like the look of grass, but who also want to provide their pets a safe and comfortable place to run, play, and—yes—go to the bathroom 36 Desert Pet Companion
Gravel or Grass? Sand and gravel or stone might seem like an easier option than grass, especially when it comes to cleaning up dog messes. But what if your dog refuses to go unless he’s standing in grass? Some dogs have been trained to go in the grass and the switch to a hard surface isn’t always easy. And maybe you’d just like an area where your dog can run, play, and relax comfortably with the soft cushion of soft grass under his paws instead of hard gravel or concrete. Let’s face it, grass feels good under our feet, too! The challenge of keeping a lush lawn—especially when you have a dog running all over it—can be frustrating. Dogs can’t help it—they wreak havoc on a lawn because it’s their restroom. And their playground. Chasing a ball with claws on the bottom of your feet will put wear and tear on any surface, especially fragile, shallow-rooted blades of grass. Add a little overwatering from the sprin-
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PHOTO COURTESY GREEN-R TURF
by Christine Stossel
klers on ground that’s not perfectly level and you’ve got … mud puddles. And dog urine, especially from females, can burn the grass and leave bare spots. As most dog owners know, fighting all that is a constant battle. And no matter which you choose— gravel or grass—your yard is going to need some regular attention. Even if you can get your dog to use gravel or stone as his “area of choice,” you won’t eliminate the yard work. The myth about gravel is that once you put it down, it requires no work. Not true! Smaller gravel tends to shift and scatter easily; a course gravel will stay put longer, but you’ll still have to put down more gravel from time to time. And you’ll never be able to avoid having to remove gravel from those places it ends up where you don’t want it to be. Installing gravel won’t put an end to weeding, either. Fighting weeds in gravel can actually be more of a hassle than in
grass because you can’t cut them off with a mower. To get rid of them, you have to either spray them with weed killer or pull them out by hand. To keep weeds from growing, you can spread your gravel on top of a layer of weed cloth, but be sure you use cloth, not plastic, to allow for better drainage.
What About Artificial Grass? So how do you get the look of the lush lawn and a soft area for your dog to play without all the hassle? One popular solution is artificial grass. Now, if the phrase “artificial grass” conjures up a vision of a lurid green carpet full of plastic turf, think again. Artificial grass has come a long way since the 1960s, when David Chaney and his team at Chemstrand Research Center in North Carolina developed AstroTurf. Today artificial grass is widely used instead of natural grass on sports fields, parks, roadsides, and on private lawns. Here are some of the benefits:
Green-R Turf Pet System
PHOTO COURTESY GREEN-R TURF
Why the Green-R Turf artificial grass pet system? A pet installation is unique. There is no doubt artificial grass will beautify your home, but the most important aspect of this type of installation is the performance. Unlike many artificial grass companies, Green-R Turf understands that pet urine will create unwanted odors that will turn your new artificial lawn into an unpleasant experience. This is why it is important to make sure the urine does not bond with the turf backing. The Green-R Turf Pet System utilizes a five step process to drastically curtail odor issues by focusing on aeration, drainage, neutralization and of course beauty.
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5 Non-toxic Turf Fresh Desert Pet Companion 37
Installing artificial grass is a multi-step process which includes getting rid of the old yard, grading the area, installing a base (sand & gravel). Photos courtesey of ZBestPet.
• It’s great for extreme climates. Natural grass can be stressed by extremes of heat or cold. Some varieties will tolerate cold well, but turn brown in the hot summer months. Other varieties are not drought-tolerant, while still others do not like a lot of rain. Artificial grass is always the same, no matter the weather.
• You don’t have to worry about heavy use. Artificial grass holds up well under heavy traffic, which is why it’s used on so many sports fields. If you’re a dog owner, you don’t have to worry about getting bare spots if your dog runs around on it every day. • It saves you money over the long term. It costs money to install artificial
Odor Free Artificial Grass
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et urine contains a chemical called amonium (related to amonia). When a dog marks repeatedly in the same area of a yard, the smell can become concentrated and strong. A number of products are available to eliminate the odor. Odor Eliminator, distributed by ZBestPet uses a specially bred bacterial enzyme that attacks and breaks down organic matter by completely digesting the source, leaving your problem spot totally odor free. The Bio Enzymatic Odor Digester is composed of a special blend of over 6 trillion live bacterial / enzyme cultures that actually digests any organic matter that penetrates porous surfaces and cause foul odors and stains. ZBESTPET Odor Eliminator Digester is an environmentally friendly concentrate that is safe to use in drains, kitty litter, pea gravel, artificial grass, trash cans and on carpets. Available online www.zbestpet.com (see ad page 39). 38 Desert Pet Companion
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After the base is added, the yard is rolled to ensure a level surface before installing the artificial turf. Photos courtesey of ZBestPet.
grass, but you make that money back over the long term because you have no costs for mowing, watering, fertilizing, weed control, or seeding, not to mention gardener’s fees. Because as much as 75 percent of household water usage is for irrigation, you can expect your water bill to drop when you install an artificial lawn. And check with
Feb-Apr 2013
your city government—you may even qualify for tax benefits and rebates. • It’s better for the environment. Fertilizers and weed killers contain chemicals that are bad for the environment. Water conservation is another good environmental reason for using this type of grass—you can save thousands of gallons of water a year by using artifi-
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cial grass. Mowing natural grass creates air pollution: 1 hour of mowing with a gas-powered push lawnmower emits as much pollution as driving your car for 10 hours. And, incredibly, an hour of mowing with a ride-on mower emits as much as 30 hours worth! • It saves time. All the mowing, fertilizing, weed control and watering that a natural lawn requires take up many hours of time. An artificial grass lawn requires none of that, and depending on the quality of the turf, life expectancy ranges from 5 to 20 years, but only on the best quality product. • It’s safer. A natural lawn always has uneven spots, holes, hills, rocks and stones—and these can be unsafe for people and dogs to walk on. Artificial grass is smooth and level, which makes it safer. And both people and dogs can suffer with grass allergies, but this isn’t a problem with an artificial grass lawn.
Is Artificial Grass Hard to Keep Clean? Keeping your artificial lawn clean does take some effort, but not nearly as much as a real lawn. You can generally rid the grass of any loose debris and fluff up the blades with a flexible rake or leaf blower. A hard brush also works well for upkeep (stiff nylon, not a steel brush). For dog owners, after your regular pet waste pickup, simply hose down the pet’s favorite area to keep it clean and fresh smelling. There are odor eliminators, and products which eat bacteria from pet waste (see Sidebar below) that can be sprayed on top of your artificial grass. You may also use “green” soap on your artificial grass, soap made from pure vegetable oils and glycerine. Although not always green in color, the soap is considered “green” because it is organic, biodegradable, and environmentally safe. • If you get something sticky in your lawn such as chewing gum, you’ll need to treat it like gum on fabric: freeze it with an ice cube till it’s hard and brittle, then break and pick it off 40 Desert Pet Companion
as best you can. Trimming out the gum isn’t advised because it will leave a bare spot, and even small spots can be noticeable, especially on a small lawn. • More serious repair jobs, such as large burns, should be handled by your artificial grass dealer. The grass can be patched, and if the dye lot is kept by the manufacturer, the color is likely to match with a patch. But if the dye lot is not available, the color won’t match, so try to avoid such accidents wherever possible.
A Smart Choice Advances in the production methods and yarns (material used for the grass blades) in today’s artificial grasses make them a very natural-looking and durable alternative to real grass. Quality synthetic grass and turf, professionally installed, will give you a beautiful careand hassle-free lawn that can stand up to the most active pet, without the problems and maintenance cost of a natural lawn. Synthetic grass has become an environmentally compatible and proven alternative to the traditional lawn, requiring no fertilizers, no pesticides and no mowing; reducing urban runoff caused by irrigation; and reducing the amount of green waste going into landfills. And for dog owners, it cuts down on that dreaded yard work while still providing your pet the look and feel of soft green grass under his paws! Editor’s note: Artificial grass may get hot in the summer sun. Hosing down your lawn might be necessary to cool the surface temperature before your pet steps on it, especially if the grass is in direct sun. Next Issue: Part Two In our next issue, read an interview with Robert Chavez, owner of Southern California’s Green-R Turf. He explains the importance of a properly prepared subsurface and how turf quality differs from manufacturer to manufacturer.
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Feb-April 2013
Feb-Apr 2013
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Desert Pet Companion 41
Does my dog have the same emotions as I do?
By Valerie Masi, Best Paw Forward
D
oes my dog have the same emotions as I do? This is a difficult question. For many years, scientists have been doing studies attempting to prove that dogs have similar emotions to humans (Friederike Range University of Vienna and Paul Morris of University of Portsmouth). There have been claims that those studies are tainted by the style of testing (Sharon Maguire Dog Breed Info Center). Barnard Collage did similar research and had no definitive answer, saying “The jury is still out.” The difficult part of proving that dogs have the same emotions is the animal’s instincts. When humans put their emotions on their pets it is called Anthropomorphism (ascribing human characteristics to nonhuman things). As humans, we want to believe our loving pets are showing or feeling the same emotions we do. It comforts us to believe we share the same feelings. In reality, they are not, at least 42 Desert Pet Companion
not in the same way as we do. They have emotions -- just not as complex as ours. It is in the more complex part of emotions where we differ. As humans, we listen to our emotions but we also have our logical side that can reason with those emotions. Dogs have their instincts. It has yet to be proven that dogs are guided by emotions. For example, often times I hear my clients say that their dog hates when they give attention to another dog, or their dog is jealous of another dog. In reality, it’s not jealousy the dog is feeling; instead, it is the dog’s instincts that drive its behavior. The dog may be guarding you or claiming you as its territory. The dominant dog stands on or in front of the person they are guarding or will try to push another dog away, thus claiming its territory. In order to fully understand the difference, we must understand that dogs are pack animals. A pack is a social
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Feb-April 2013
group and all social groups, human or animal, have a hierarchy in which they exhibit leadership as well as set the rules for the system or the pack. When a dog joins a human household, those humans become its pack. If the humans are not the leaders, then energy is perceived as unstable or weak and the dog takes it amongst itself to lead the pack. Dogs have the ability to feel our emotions through energy that radiates off our bodies. However, scientists believe they cannot understand the meaning of that energy. Based on such findings, dogs really don’t hate other dogs or experience jealousy over other dogs. Instead, they have determined that they lead the pack and therefore their human belongs to them and other dogs that are not part of that pack are not accepted. Another great example would when we are upset over personal issues our dogs will pick up on our energy changes. They may not understand
what our problems are, but they act accordingly due to the weak energy they feel. At this time it has not been proven that dogs have the same emotions as people. In my 28 years of experience, I have not witnessed a single example that instinctual behavior cannot explain. Throughout my career, I have seen when people put their emotions on their dogs, that they are inadvertently rewarding or punishing them. By rewarding or ignoring bad behavior, we unintentionally tell the dog that guarding or fighting off other dogs is acceptable. It is an important responsibility taking on another life and it is up to us to understand our furry pack member’s way of thinking in order to fulfill their needs. Valerie Masi, owner of Best Paw Forward can be reached at 760-885-9450 or bestpawforwarddogtraining.com.
best paw forward One-on-One Training Through Boarding Or At Your Home
Over 25 Years Training Experience
Now • Puppy & Adult Classes Offering Advanced • Basic & Advanced Obedience Obedience and Agility Classes at • Consultations The Pet Rescue • K-9 Good Citizen Test Center • Behavior & Aggression Problem Solving Obedience Classes also held at The Pet Oasis, Bermuda Dunes.
Valerie Masi, Certified Trainer & Behaviorist
www.bestpawforwarddogtraining.com Feb-Apr 2013
760-885-9450
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Desert Pet Companion 43
Dog Friendly Restaurant Review
T
aking three inquisitive Maltese to Sabatino’s Ristorante Italiano in Rancho Mirage was a surprising delight, according to Lulu, Little One and Glory, three doggies who dine out often with their human companions. A spacious patio at Sabatino’s ensures that dining out for lunch or dinner is worry free. Thanks to owners Karen and Sam Esposito, who are also founders of KASE (Keeping Animals Safe Everyday), it is obvious that there is a genuine interest in hospitality for all concerned. Dogs with service tags are welcome inside. 44 Desert Pet Companion
We were seated in a cozy alcove near the entrance where the three canine “critics” were fascinated by the wondrous smells emanating from the kitchen. With the fragrances of spaghetti in a luscious tomato sauce topped with tender meatballs, minestrone bursting with celery, carrots, beans and potatoes and crispy slices of fried zucchini wafting through the air, there was not a bark to be heard. Jim Dunn, with Glory and Lulu each on their own chair, told me “the cuisine reflects the owner’s recipes, mainly from southern Italy, which result
by Pamela Price
in the best homemade Italian cuisine that I have had since I moved here ten years ago.” Mrs. Esposito told us about how she and her husband founded KASE with the mission of providing medical treatment, training and rehabilitation for lost or abandoned animals, providing for them “full and happy lives”. Karen said, “We have rescued 200 lost dogs and cats during the last five years, giving them a new lease on life.” Thanks to their relationship with the Coachella Valley Animal Campus in Thousand Palms, these forsaken pets have found
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Feb-April 2013
PHOTO: COURTESY KASE
Dr. and Gerald Ford. There is plenty of open space to walk your dog between courses if the need should arise.
DPCs Restaurant Reviewers
THREE PAWS UP for Sabatino’s Ristorante Italiano! Sabatino’s Ristorante Italiano, 36-101 Bob Hope Dr., Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 is open Monday through Saturday, lunch 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, dinner, 5 PM to closing and closed Sunday. Take out orders welcome. (760) 324-9200 www.sabatinosranchomirage.com
Feb-Apr 2013
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Desert Pet Companion 45
PHOTO: COURTESY KAREN BUXBAUM See ad page 41.
sausages, either hot Italian or Lucanica. If you want to stay focused on pasta, there are 18 choices with the Parpadella Zingara recommended highly by several of their loyal fans; it brings out the flavors of chicken, sausage, bell peppers and porcini mushrooms, thanks to a memorable Osso Bucco sauce. As Lulu, Little One and Glory were soothed by their favorite Frank Sinatra songs and nibbling on treats, Karen told us that Bill Marx, the desert’s popular pianist, performs here Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, which makes their Happy Hour with a menu of appetizers an ideal rendezvous. Sabatino’s Ristorante Italiano is located in the Pavillion’s shopping center at the corner of Bob Hope
PHOTO: COURTESY KASE
loving care readying them for adoption. This kind hearted couple brings to their Italian kitchen that same love and care whether they are cooking up Cannelloni Conessa (pasta tubes filled with ground veal, chicken, ricotta and spinach with a choice of red or white sauce) or one of their creative pizzas. With your choice of 28 toppings, from gorgonzola to green olives, these aren’t your average pizzas. Sizes are small, $10.50, medium, $12.75, and large for $15. Risotto, that scrumptious, slow cooked rice creation is on the menu with a “Puglia” style that is sautéed with shallots, herbs, artichokes, asparagus, sun dried tomatoes and porcini mushrooms enhanced with a light saffron sauce, as well as “Veneto” style with shitake and champignon mushrooms with two
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PREPARING PUPPY FOR HIS FIRST GROOM Article & Photography by Joanne Chretin, Uptown Dog Grooming
G
oing to the groomer for the first time can be a very traumatic experience for a puppy. However, if you practice a few exercises with him before you go, things will go much smoother for both him and his groomer. First off, he will get his nails trimmed and have the hair between his paw pads shaved. To help him get used to having his feet handled, spend time massaging his paws and pads at times when you’re both relaxed – maybe when watching TV. Pay special attention to rubbing in between the pads. Most puppies don’t mind being bathed, but they are usually fearful of the drying process. When you are blow drying your own hair, hold the dryer
close to him. Try blowing it on him so long as you have it on the cool and low setting. The noise is
what will scare him the most, so getting him used to sounds around his head and body will keep
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Desert Pet Companion 47
him from panicking in the salon. Blowing through a straw directed at his face is another good way to help him be ready for his spa day, as his little face will have to be dried as well. If your puppy breed requires regular haircuts, then get out an electric toothbrush, shaver, anything that buzzes and vibrates. Hold it close to his body and head with it running so he can see that even though it’s noisy, it actually feels good! That way he’ll be more relaxed as he experiences the clippers for the first time. Since puppies are naturally curious about every new thing they see, most of them do very well
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at their first grooming appointment. We find that if the “parents” are nervous or uptight about bringing them, they will react in kind and not be relaxed when entering the building. Please be aware that your puppy responds to the signals you send. If you’re completely relaxed and comforting on your trip to the groomer, he will most likely be happy to come in. When dogs are nervous about being left at the groomer’s, part of their fear is that you may not return for them, not so much that they’re going to have a bad experience. I like to think of dogs being like two-year-olds going to day care. When left, the child cries and makes Mom feel guilty for leaving him, but behaves like an angel once Mom is gone. Dogs are the same way – the ones who make the biggest fuss at check-in are the ones who enjoy their groom the most. The most important and effective thing you can do to help your dog enjoy
his grooming experience is to bring him to the groomer frequently. Even if your dog doesn’t need regular haircuts, he still needs to be bathed, his nails need to be trimmed, his anal glands need to be expressed, and his ears need to be cleaned. All of this is included in a bath and blow dry at most grooming salons. Once your puppy has had his last round of shots and is cleared by his vet, please consider getting him used to going to the groomer. It will most likely be a pleasant experience for everyone, including you, as you are probably looking forward to a little break, too. And one last thing: always be sure he’s had a chance to visit the potty before bringing him in to make his stay as comfortable as possible. Joanne Chretrin, iowner of Uptown Dog Grooming, 73290 El Paseo, Ste. 4, Palm Desert and can be reached at 760-779-9900, www.uptowndoggrooming.com
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760-799-9101 Desert Pet Companion 49
Old Age Is Not a Disease By Dr. Gail Cutler, DVM, CVA VCA Desert Animal Hospital
50 Desert Pet Companion
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Feb-April 2013
T
here is a saying in veterinary medicine ‘old age is not a disease’. There are many healthy geriatric pets that have a good quality of life. In order to maintain that good quality of life, some require medical or surgical assistance for conditions that are associated with the aging process. These include arthritis, obesity, cardiac disease, cancer, kidney and liver disease, senility, hearing and vision loss, reproductive problems, and endocrine problems. The first thing you may see in an older pet is slowing down, not being able to jump up on things, or difficulty getting in and out of the car or litter box. These can be due
to longstanding joint abnormalities that have degenerated and can be addressed with joint supplements, anti-inflammatory medication, pain medication, and acupuncture. There are also special diets that can help with arthritis. A related problem is obesity. As pets age, they can become more sedentary and gain weight. Many people don’t realize that their pet is obese. Studies have shown that decreasing weight vs. giving arthritis medication has the same effect on helping a pet get around. Obesity can also predispose a pet to other diseases such as diabetes, as well as decreasing their lifespan. It is important to measure the amount of food given to a pet, and then decrease it as recommended by your veterinarian. An aging heart can start to have problems. Your veterinarian may have noted a heart murmur earlier in a pet’s life. A murmur is when a heart valve does not close completely, Feb-Apr 2013
and may or may not have a longterm effect on the heart. A dog owner may first notice a cough when their pet is lying down or sleeping, which progresses to coughing more frequently. A cat may hide cardiac disease entirely. Heart disease is best diagnosed with radiographs and an ultrasound to help determine what medications would best improve the pet’s quality of life. Like people, older pets are more prone to cancer. This can show up either as an external mass, or the pet may have nonspecific symptoms such as general malaise, inappetence, and weight loss. Cancer is best diagnosed by biopsy of the mass, radiographs, or ultrasound. There have been significant advances in chemotherapy and cancer surgeries to help a pet with cancer live a longer and happier life. As organs age, they can become less efficient. Aging kidneys can lose their ability to concentrate urine effectively and the pet will get dehydrated even though it is drinking and urinating a lot. They can get an upset stomach, accumulate body minerals that the kidneys usually excrete, which leads to vomiting, weight loss, and not eating well. The kidneys don’t make new cells, so treatment is aimed at making what is left of the kidneys work better. On the other hand, symptoms of liver disease vary, but usually involve the digestive system. The liver is always regenerating itself, and when it ceases to function appropriately, diagnostics are needed to figure out why and then see if the changes can be reversed with medical treatment. Some older pets may start having changes in their mental status, such as staring into space, doing odd behaviors, or not doing what used
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to be traditional behaviors. The good news is that there is medical treatment for senility, after ruling out blindness, deafness, or separation anxiety. Hearing and vision loss are not uncommon as a pet ages. Chronic ear infections can contribute to hearing loss, but sometimes it is just age-related changes to the hearing apparatus. We see a lot of cataracts in dogs, which have a slow onset. If a cataract is sudden onset, it may be related to diabetes. Blind and deaf pets can do surprisingly well when in familiar surroundings. Although they haven’t invented hearing aids for pets, cataract surgery at a specialist is an option. Sometimes an owner will think that their older dog has had a stroke, which is rare in pets. Usually it is vestibular disease, which is a balance problem of the inner ear. The pet will have a head tilt, unable to walk, vomit, and eyes rolling. After ruling out an ear infection (and less likely a brain tumor), most treatment is symptomatic and the pet gets better on their own. Older pets that have not been spayed or neutered can develop trouble down the road. An intact male is subject to prostatitis, which is an enlarged and inflamed prostate. It causes blood in the urine, difficulty urinating or defecating, and if abscessed, the patient can become quite ill. Or, testicular tumors can arise. Treatment for both conditions is castration. An unspayed female is vulnerable to a pyometra, which is a pus-filled uterus that can happen about a month after a heat and she will become very ill. The treatment is an expensive emergency spay. Spaying and neutering your pet when it is young can avoid these problems. There are some endocrine problems that can happen to older pets. One is thyroid disease. In dogs, a long-standing immune problem can cause the thyroid to not make enough hormones. Signs of hypothyroidism include thin hair 52 Desert Pet Companion
coat, weight gain, and low energy. This is treated with daily thyroid supplementation. In cats, a benign tumor on the thyroid gland can use the thyroid to make too much hormone. Signs of hyperthyroidism include excessive hunger, weight loss, vomiting, drinking more, and restlessness. This is treated with either daily medication to inhibit thyroid production, radiation treatment, or a special iodine-free diet. Cushing’s disease is another endocrine problem that can affect older pets. It is usually caused by a benign tumor on the pituitary gland, but can also be adrenal gland tumor, or cancer. The effect is excess secretion of cortisol in the system, and the signs are excessive water drinking, hair loss or skin issues, hunger, and weight gain. Treatment is with medication to either decrease cortisol production, or to alter the adrenal gland function. Lastly, older pets can become diabetic. Often this is related to obesity, but not always. The signs are excessive drinking, hunger, weight loss, and can progress to illness. This is due to the pancreas not secreting enough insulin to help the body use the available glucose. Treatment is regular insulin injections. Interestingly, with proper treatment, cats can reverse their diabetes, so regular monitoring is required. All of these conditions underscore the need for regular checkups for senior pets. Twice yearly exams and bloodwork for any pet over age seven is a good idea to get a heads up on early signs of agerelated diseases. Catching something early can definitely help extend the length and quality of your pet’s life.
Dr. Gail Cutler, DVM is a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist at VCA Desert Animal Hospital, located at 4299 E. Ramon Rd, Palm Springs, CA (760) 778-9999
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Feb-April 2013
Pet-friendly Events
March 5: Monthly Pet Adoption Fair from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm at the Montecito Clubhouse on Sun City Boulevard in Sun City Shadow Hills. For information call Bob Sielski at 760-200-3193.
February 9 & 23: Friends of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter New Volunteer Orientation; 11am to 1pm – Hugh E. Donaldson Community Room, An overview of our mission, philosophy and volunteer opportunities. This one and a half hour orientation is mandatory for all volunteers and includes a tour of the facility. 4575 Mesquite Avenue, Palm Springs, (760) 416-5718 February 18: Yappy Hour at Johnny Rocket’s (50s theme) – 4:00 – 7:00 pm For information, call (760) 776-9397 or visit www.lovingallanimal.org. February 18: 4th Annual Men of the Desert Fashion Show Featuring local models and their well-behaved pooches strutting down the runway. Local models will feature men’s apparel from Saks Fifth Avenue in Palm Desert. Join hostess Patti Gribow and event honorees Anne Jeffries and Patti Daly Caruso. The event raises money for Animal Samaritans’ no-kill animal shelter and Animal Care Fund. 11 am – 2 pm, Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa, www.animalsamaritans.org/events-programs or 760-6013754 for tickets, $85 per person February 24: “Faith, Hope & Pups” polo fundraiser (see attached) 11:00 am – 3:00 pm For information, visit www.lovingallanimal.org, or call (760) 776-9397 February 24: Rattlesnake Aversion training at Village Park Animal Hospital, by appointment only, for reservations, call 760-564-3833. Please see ad for Village Park Animal Hospital on page 21. February 24: Concours de Elegance at Desert Princess – 8:00 am – 4:00 pm For information, visit www.lovingallanimal.org, or call (760) 776-9397 March 1: Pairing Party at BG Bird Gardens, 5:00 – 8:00 pm For information, visit www.lovingallanimal.org, or call (760) 776-9397 March 2 & 3: “All For Love” Tennis Tournament at Shadow Mountain Resort & Club, starting at 11:00 am For information, visit www.lovingallanimal.org, or call (760) 776-9397 March 3: “Pars 4 Paws” Golf Tournament at Shadow Mountain Resort & Club, starting at 7:00 am For information, visit www.lovingallanimal.org, or call (760) 776-9397 Feb-Apr 2013
March 9 & 23: Friends of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter New Volunteer Orientation; 11am to 1pm – Hugh E. Donaldson Community Room, An overview of our mission, philosophy and volunteer opportunities. This one and a half hour orientation is mandatory for all volunteers and includes a tour of the facility. 4575 Mesquite Avenue, Palm Springs, (760) 416-5718 March 17: Raging Bull Chili Cook Off, The Raging Bull Chili Cook Off and Car Show hosted by the Knights of Columbus is happening on Sunday, March 17th, 2013 at the Spa Resort Casino in Palm Springs. $5 per person; $12 for a family of two parents and two children. For entry into either the chili cook off or for the car show please visit the website http://ragingbullchilicookoff.weebly.com/ April 2: Monthly Pet Adoption Fair from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm at the Montecito Clubhouse on Sun City Boulevard in Sun City Shadow Hills. For information call Bob Sielski at 760-200-3193. April 2: 3rd Annual Desert Dog Run, benefits Guide Dogs of the Desert, Motorcycle Poker Ride In memory of Troy P. Dunne, $100.00 cash prize for the highest poker hand, BBQ by Lowbelly BBQ, Live Music, 50/50 Raffle with a Cash Prize, Lots of great Raffle Items, Vendor Booths. 9:00 a.m. Registration at the Guide Dogs of the Desert campus, 60735 Dillon Rd. Whitewater, CA 92282 (760) 329-6257 May 7: Monthly Pet Adoption Fair from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm at the Montecito Clubhouse on Sun City Boulevard in Sun City Shadow Hills. For information call Bob Sielski at 760-200-3193.
Additional Events listed on pages 2, 20, 29, 34, and 57.
There are many pet-friendly activities and events happening throughout the year. The list above is a small sampling. Please visit our website or add your photo to our Facebook group and keep up with local petfriendly events. www.facebook.com/desertpetcompanion
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Big White Tent 45380 Larkspur Lane, Palm Desert, CA 92260 Saturday, March 16, 2013 Cocktail Reception: 5 p.m. Fashion Show: 6 p.m.
ashion Week El Paseo™ will present the second annual Le Chien Couture Fashion Show on Saturday, March 16, 2013. This animal lovers’ event will begin with a cocktail reception. The event will again benefit the Humane Society of the Desert, a non-profit, no-kill animal sanctuary. The one-hour reception, held in the tent next to the Big White Tent on Larkspur, will feature a live jazz band, silent auction and other surprises. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Malinda Bustos, President of the Board of Directors of the Humane Society of the Desert , will speak briefly and present a short video about the Humane Society of the Desert. Following the cocktail reception, the Fashion Show will take place in the Big White Tent at 6 p.m. Attendees can expect to see dogs, large and small, pedigree and mutt, strutting their stuff on the Fashion Week runway. The doggie models will be decked out in the latest spring fashions by dog couture designer Linda Higgins.
PHOTO: GERRY MACEDA / COURTESY OF PALM SPRINGS LIFE
F
About Linda Higgins: Clients of Classy Doggie Designs by Linda Higgins expect the unexpected. They covet the opulent designs in Higgins’ online shop. Her fabric selections hint at her fashion-forward sensibilities as she infuses first-class style, sophistication, and elegance into every couture design — from single pieces to ensembles featuring a hat, bow, or jeweled accessory. CONTINUED ON PAGE 59 54 Desert Pet Companion
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Feb-Apr 2013
Expect the Unexpected Classy Doggie Designs by Linda Higgins Featured fashion designer for dogs at the 2nd annual Le Chien Couture Fashion Show.
sophistication elegance
PHOTOS: JAYNE HEMMERICH
style
www.dogdressesbylindahiggins.com
Make a Difference ... Give to the
Donations accepteD at: orphanpet.com or p.o. Box 2922 palm springs, ca 92262 760-329-0203 Location: 17825 n. indian canyon ave. n. palm springs, ca 92258
A 501(c)3, A NON PROFIT Organization
“Cocktails & Puptails”
Hosted by: Cosmopawlitan Café & Boutique 73200 El Paseo 3B, Palm Desert 760.341.7297 Sunday, March 17th at 1 p.m. - 4p.m.
Cosmopawlitan Café & Boutique will be serving mimosas and finger foods for the mommies and daddies, while their pups can sample yummy baked dog treats. Of course, the main purpose is the viewing of the fabulous haute dog couture Linda Higgins will bring to the runway and see her creations up close! While you are there, be sure to browse the unique selection of quality, upscale merchandise for dogs, cats and pet lovers.
PHOTO: GERRY MACEDA / COURTESY OF PALM SPRINGS LIFE
Linda Higgins TRUNK SHOW
Join Cosmopawlitan Café & Boutique at other Fashion Week events including: PET PSYCHIC: Tues., March 19, 10am-2pm Pet Communicator, Cherie Vergini, will be here to answer your questions or concerns and may be able to tell you what your pet is REALLY thinking!
PURSES & POOCHES: Thur., March 21, 1-3pm Come in and see our fabulous new collection of Miche handbags. These bags are so versatile and easy – you’ll love ‘em. Oh yes, you may bring your 4-legged friends as well!
Visit us today! We offer a unique selection of quality, upscale merchandise for dogs, cats and pet lovers. COSMOPAWLITAN CAFÉ & BOUTIQUE offers a wide selection of packaged treats and chews, designer collars, harnesses and leashes, cool apparel, must-have pet beds and cozy blankets. Furbulous birthday pawrty packages
Bling your dog!
are also available for your dog’s special day or pick up a unique gift basket for any occasion! • New Puppy • Obedience School Graduate • Get Well • Just Bepaws!
73200 El Paseo 3B, Palm Desert, CA 92260 760.341.PAWS (7297) - www.cosmopawlitancafe.com Mon-Sat 8AM-5PM, Sun Noon-4PM
Feb-Apr 2013
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Desert Pet Companion 57
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58 Desert Pet Companion
www.DesertPetCompanion.com
Feb-April 2013
About Linda Higgins CONTINUED FROM PAGE 54
PHOTO: GERRY MACEDA / COURTESY OF PALM SPRINGS LIFE
Higgins gained attention for her interior design work, which has appeared in magazines such as Architectural Digest, Southern Accents, and New Woman. She started designing canine couture after attending many formal events that welcomed her dogs. “Well, they couldn’t go without being dressed appropriately!” she says. Higgins’ designs feature some of the finest silks available. She scours fabric markets on a global level to offer her clients the best selections. All of her dresses and vests are made in the USA. She also designs lightweight cotton dresses and vests for fun-loving dogs — and donates a generous portion of the CONTINUED ON PAGE 60
Furrst and Furrmost Pooch Palace & Sanctuary Where Your Dog’s Vacation Might Just Be Better Than Your Own
Luxury Overnight Suites Indoor Play Rooms Day Camp Lush Play Yards
Your boarding fees contribute to the lifetime care of 15-18 dogs living in our sanctuary!
Indoor Barkalounge Training & Agility Course Chauffeur Service Grooming Salon Voted Valley’s Best Pet Resort for 6 Years!
760-398-9900
www.TheGrandPaw.com 51750 Jackson Street (Near Avenue 52) Feb-Apr 2013
Open Boarding • Indoor fully air conditioned and heated • Outdoor 2-acre fenced play yard with pool • All dogs carefully screened before boarding • Dogs come home happy, healthy and tired
Reasonable Rates!
760-409-9226
68100 Louisan Rd., Desert Hot Springs (Convenient location-only 8 minutes from the Freeway)
www.furrstandfurrmost.com
www.DesertPetCompanion.com
Desert Pet Companion 59
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 59
PHOTO: GERRY MACEDA / COURTESY OF PALM SPRINGS LIFE
sales proceeds from her Ella Bea line to the shelter where she adopted Ella Bea, her Chihuahua. Higgins has appeared on the cover of Chihuahua Connection Magazine and Pet Style, and her designs can be seen in boutiques worldwide. You can also see her designs in films — including on Chloe in Beverly Hills Chihuahua Viva La Fiesta and Bonny in Seven Psychopaths. Higgins’ fashion shows are memorable and delightful, full of glamour and extravagance. Linda Higgins Classy Doggie Designs are available at www.lindahiggins.com.
Look for these Events during Fashion Week too Furry Angel Foundation 1st Fashion Show and Silent Auction Saturday, March 16 & Saturday, March 23 5-7pm at Cold Nose Warm Heart 760-340-0900 73-399 El Paseo, Palm Desert Tickets: $20 100% of ticket proceeds go to the Furry Angel Foundation. For Ticket information contact Donna at (760) 831-6166 donnaharrington@ thefurryangelfoundation.org 60 Desert Pet Companion
Raging Bull Chili Cook Off LETS EAT! Sunday, March 17, 2013 10am to 5pm Spa Resort Casino 401 East Amado Road Palm Springs, CA 92262 Cost: $5 per person $12 for a family of two parents and two children For entry into either the chili cook off or for the car show please visit the website ragingbullchilicookoff.weebly.com/
www.DesertPetCompanion.com
Feb-April 2013
PHOTO: GERRY MACEDA / COURTESY OF PALM SPRINGS LIFE
We are a Mother & Daughter Team
Daily Visits & Overnight Stays for Your Dog and Kitty Kids Your Pets Get to Stay in Their Home While You Are Away email: kristacarlton29@msn.com
©
Pet Sitting Service Licensed, Bonded & Insured
Melinda Law
(760)202-8939
Call Jackie or Krista at
Cell: 760-409-5425
760-202-8554
PreciousNPurrfect@msn.com
Ask about boarding in my home.
Exotic Birds Unlimited 44827 San Pablo Ave. Palm Desert
retail store, bird supplies, boarding, consulting
760-779-5205
www.ExoticBirdsUnlimited.com
They leave it, We retrieve it! FOR ONLY $9.75/WK 1 DOG, $2.75 ADD’L DOG
$5.00 OFF First Week of Service*
Lic. and Insured
Pet Waste Removal Service
Kim’s Pet Sitting Service Licensed, Bonded & Insured Serving West Coachella Valley Since 2001
We Scoop, Disinfect & Remove Your Dogs Poop Weekly
866-229-9289
www.gotdooky.com *Mention this ad to get discount. Not valid with any other offers. Limit one per household. No Cash Value.
Pet Clubs Kennel Club of Palm Springs KCPS meets the third Wednesday of each month except July, August or December at the Palm Springs Police Dept. Library at 7:30PM. Interested visitors are welcome. Contact iggylil@earthlink.net to confirm meeting or for information.
Local Businesses Grooming Bath & Brush 4771 E. Palm Canyon Dr. Ste. A, Palm Springs 760-2024494, Health conscious professional bathing and grooming for your pet including dogs, cats, rabbits and birds. Please see ad on p 48. The Pet Spaw 73-905 Frontage Rd. Hwy 111, Palm Desert 760-346-3461, Best in theValley for over 32 years.Take advantage of our All Year Round special prices on our “Comfort Baths.” Please see ad on p 46. Shear Art Pet Salon 67-555 E. Palm Canyon Dr. Ste. C-109, Cathedral City, 760-285-6263, www.ShearArtPetSalon.com SHEAR ART is a state-of-the-art salon offering friendly full service dog and cat grooming in a clean and relaxed atmosphere. Located just two miles from Palm Springs on Highway 111 across the street from Trader Joe’s and Target, SHEAR ART features easy drop-off and pick-up. Please see ad on p 49. The Dogman Cometh 760-799-9101, www.thedogmancometh.com We bring the all-equipped Dogmobile right to your driveway, and our certified, experienced dog-handlers give your pet the royal treatment. At The Dogman Cometh we know you have put your trust in us to make sure your pet receives the unique attention they deserve. Please see ad on p 49. Uptown Dog Grooming 73290 El Paseo, Suite 4, Palm Desert, 760-779-9900, www.uptowndoggrooming.com At Uptown Dog Grooming, we specialize in giving your dog tender loving care while he/she is being groomed. Our goal is to make sure all our doggie clients have a pleasant experience and want them to enjoy their time with us. Please see ad on p 47. Services Animal Acupuncture Comprehensive Alternative Medicine for Pets 760-766-6223, info@awellnessexperienceforpets.net Benefit Together, 800-381-0071, www.benefittogether.com/healthdiscounts/pet Please see ad on p 17. Green-R Turf, 866-367-8873, Artificial grass installation. www.greenrturf.com Please see ad on p 37. Odor Eliminator, 888-552-6646, Eliminate pet urine odors.www.zbestpet.com Please see ad on p 39.
Add your photo to our Facebook group and keep up with local pet-friendly events. www.facebook.com/desertpetcompanion 62 Desert Pet Companion
Pet Resorts & Boarding Furrst and Furrmost Pooch Palace 68100 Louisan Rd., Desert Hot Springs, 760-409-9226, www.furrstandfurrmost.com A totally unique concept in dog care, it’s a bed and breakfast and dog park rolled into one. Open boarding, plenty of playtime (16 hours a day!), even a pool for cooling down. Please see ad on p 59. Pet Sitting by Kat 760-460-1047, www.dssbykat.com. The Grand Paw 51750 Jackson St., Vista Santa Rosa, 760-398-9900 www. TheGrandPaw.com, VotedValley’s Best Pet Resort for 5 years, The Grand Paw is an upscale, fun-filled resort offering doggie daycamp, luxury boarding, expert training and professional grooming. Please see ad on p 59. Pet Sitters, & Pet Waste Removal Service Guardian Pet and Home Care www.guardianpetandhomecare.com, 760-238-1612, Guardian Pet & Home Care, a loving pet sitting service dedicated to the welfare of your special pet. Owned and operated by Kathleen, Guardian Pet & Home Care is licensed, bonded, insured, pet safety and CPR certified, with client references and veterinary recommended. Please see ad on p 61. Got Dooky? 866-229-9289, www.gotdooky.com, Got Dooky is the Desert’s premier service for residential and commercial pet waste removal. Serving the entire desert since 2007. Please see ad on p 61. Kim’s Pet Sitting Service 1-855-729-7487, Professional pet sitting service in your home. Since 2001. Bonded, licensed and insured. Loving Touch Pet Sitting Debey Do, 760-485-7446 Precious-N-Purrfect Pampered Pets Kim Sherman & Melinda Law, 760-202-8939 or 855-PAWSITR, www.preciousnpurrfect.com, Serving the desert since 2001, Precious-N-Purrfect Pampered Pets has acquired the experience to care for your young new addition to your most senior pets. Please see ad on p 61. The Pet Nanny Jackie or Krista, 760-202-8554, Daily visits & overnight stays for your dog and kitty kids. Please see ad on p 61. Photography Karen Buxbaum Photography 760-625-5552, www.KarenBuxbaumPhotography.com Animals fill my heart. They live life in the moment, sharing joy and humor. They make our lives more meaningful. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture the essence of your loved one in a photograph to treasure for your lifetime. Please see ad p 41.
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Feb-April 2013
Zandria Muench Beraldo Photography 760-323-4616, danitadelimont.com Ketchum Photography www.KetchumPhotography.com, Please see p 26/27 Retail & Pet Stores Ambrosia Pet Deli 73131 Country Club Dr. C3, Palm Desert 760-568-1177, www.ambrosiapetdeliofca.com Our mission is to keep pets healthy and to live long by providing the healthiest and safest dog and cat food we can find. Please see ad on p 19. Bones-n-Scones 577 E. Sunny Dunes Rd., Palm Springs, 760-864-1133 73-910 Highway 111, Palm Desert, 760-340-BONE www.bonesnscones.com Yes, we’ll answer any questions about your pet’s diet! Raw, dehydrated, grain-free & fresh foods, also an on-site bakery offering treats & specialty cakes. Ask about FREE delivery! Please see ad on p 35. Cold Nose Warm Heart 189 S. Palm Canyon, Palm Springs, 760-327-7747 73399 El Paseo, Palm Desert, 760-340-0900 www.coldnosewarmheart.com, Cold Nose Warm Heart is an upscale pet boutique in the heart of Palm Springs Village. Please see ad on p 3. Cosmopawlitan Cafe 73-200 El Paseo #3B, Palm Desert, 760-341-7297 www.cosmopawlitancafe.com Offering a unique selection of quality, upscale merchandise for dogs, cats and pet lovers. Browse the boutique for that perfect something or just relax in the lounge while your pup munches on his favorite treat! Please see ad p 57. Pet Oasis 42-220 Washington St., Bermuda Dunes (next to Home Goods), 760-345-3199, 72877 Dinah Shore Dr. (across from Clark’s Nutrition) 760-324-0980. Our selection of healthy nutritional products will amaze you. Our experience is second to none and you will find all your pet’s needs in one place! Please see ad on p 9. Training Best Paw Forward, Valerie Masi 760-885-9450, www.BestPawForwardDogTraining.com Offering individual consultation, custom training and behavior modification to fit the dog and owner. Group training classes also available. Please see ad on p 43. Dream Dogs, Lori Wainio-Carman 760-899-7272, www.dreamdogs.com, Dream Dogs uses positive training techniques to build proper relationships between dog and owner to achieve maximum results. Group, in-residence,and private training available. Please see ad on p 15. JWDogs Dog Training JJ Ruch, 310-567-4030, www.JWDogs.com, We want training to be fun for you and your dog. Please see ad p 31.
Feb-Apr 2013
Veterinarians Animal Hospital of Desert 760-568-5151, www.animalhospitalofdesert.com 44350 Monterey Avenue, Palm Desert Country Club Animal Clinic 36869 Cook St., Palm Desert, 760-776-7555 www.countryclubdvm.com, Country Club Animal Clinic provides exceptional care and service to pets and their people.“Your pet’s health is our business!” Please see ad on page 5. The Cat Clinic 67870 Vista Chino, Cathedral City, California 92234, 760-325-3400, www.catcitycat.com, Dr. Rebecca Diaz is dedicated to keeping your cats and kittens happy and healthy with top-quality care in a stress-free environment created specifically for the special needs of our feline companions. Please see ad on page 13. Palm Springs Animal Hospital 4771 E. Palm Canyon Rd., Ste. E, Palm Springs, 760324-0450, www.palmspringsanimalhospital.com Serving Palm Springs since 1987, the full-service small animal hospital is family owned. A board certified veterinarian is on staff. Please see ad p 16. Veterinarian on the Run Mobile veterinarian, 760-898-2627 www.vetontherun.com VCA - All Creatures Animal Hospital 78359 Hwy. 111, La Quinta, 760-564-1154 www.vcahospitals.com/all-creatures Please see ad on p 29. VCA - Desert Animal Hospital 4299 E. Ramon Rd., Palm Springs, 760-778-9999 www.vcahospitals.com/desert, Expert staff offering quality care and treatment for your pets. Upscale boarding facility too. Please see ads on p 33 & 46. VCA - Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital 71-075 Hwy. 111, Rancho Mirage, 760-346-6103 www.vcahospitals.com/rancho-mirage Providing you—and your pet—with the highest quality of care and attention. Please see ads on p 33 & 46. VCA - Valley Animal Medical Center 46920 Jefferson St., Indio, 760-609-0498 www.vcavalleyemergency.com 24/7 General and Emergency practice. Please see ad on back cover. Village Park Animal Hospital 77895 Ave. Montezuma, La Quinta 760-564-3833 www.VillageParkAnimalHospital.com Village Park Animal Hospital is a full-service, small animal veterinary hospital providing comprehensive medical, surgical and dental care for the life of your pet. Please see ad p 21.
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