Issue 8 - September/October 2009 Pet Enthusiast Magazine

Pet Enthusiast Enriching the lives of pets and their loved ones

COMPLIMENTARY

Enriching the lives of pets and their loved ones

NOmaha e b r aMetro s k a -- Lincoln Iowa

magazine

ON DUTY

Horse Patrol and K9 Units Protecting Our Cities

The Canine Escape Artist Backyard Bird Feeding on a Budget Pet Psychics A “Turtle� Tale from Lincoln Halloween and Pets

March / April 2009

September/October 2009

PE

Editor’s Note

MAG

8 Cover Photo: “Lola” - Cover Photo Contest Winner Cover photos by Mona K. Photography www.monakphotography.com Editor-In-Chief: Dawn M. Pieke Publisher: Pet Enthusiast Publications, Inc. Senior Editor: Nancy Casper Design Contributors: Dawn Pieke Melody Falcone Webmaster and Graphic Design: Cari Spencer Contributors: Jeff Casper Denise Maryanski Linda Witfoth Dr. Monte Pauli Tess N. Sykes Corey O’Shaughnessy

Letters to the Editor: Editor@PE-magazine.com or PO BOX 540395, Omaha, NE 68154 Office: 402.312.9395 Advertisement Inquiries to: Office: 402.312.9395 Or email Advertise@PE-magazine.com Subscription Inquiries to: Subscribe@PE-magazine.com To order a subscription for yourself or for a gift, visit: www.PE-magazine.com Permissions: To obtain permission to reproduce an article appearing in Pet Enthusiast magazine, please email: editor@PE-magazine.com The opinions of the contributors or advertisers featured in Pet Enthusiast magazine do not necessarily express those held by Pet Enthusiast Publications, Inc. Pet Enthusiast Publications, Inc. cannot return unsolicited materials. Written permission from Pet Enthusiast Publications, Inc. is required to reproduce any part of this magazine. Pet Enthusiast magazine makes every attempt to provide accurate information in advertising and editorial content; however, Pet Enthusiast magazine does not make any claim as to the accuracy of information provided by advertisers or editorial contributors and accepts no responsibility or liability for inaccurate information. © Copyright 2009, Pet Enthusiast Publications, Inc. All rights reserved.

T

he September/October issue was a wonderful inspiration for us in getting ready for the school year and the upcoming fall holiday season. As we were putting together this issue, we had one of those pumpkin spice candles illuminated in the office enabling us to keep in the spirit of fall and marrying that energy into the pages of the issue.

Included are articles about enriching your world alongside your pets during the autumn weather. Before I created the magazine, I had no idea there were so many wonderful organizations and outlets to enable one to do just that, especially around Halloween. Be sure to check out the events page that lists many fun and entertaining things to do with your animal companion, while at the same time, helping animal rescue organizations.

Thank you to many of you whom we met at the events in July and August. Your words of encouragement and thankfulness were incredible to hear. Have a very happy fall season. Enjoy!

Editor-In-Chief

“A house is not a home without a pet.” ~ Anonymous

STORY On Duty

Horse Patrol and K9 Units Protecting Our Cities

12-13 The Escape Artist

BEHAVIOR IMPROV

Outwitting the Curious

22-23

18-19 NOW HEAR THIS! Lincoln Animal Ambassadors Game Days at Dogtopia Dancing Dog Co. Expands Backlund Animal Clinic Horton’s K9 Opens

Featured Breeds

Arabian Horse and the Westie

24-25 16

PAW PAW RAZZI

READERS’ PETS

SUBSCRIBE

to Pet Enthusiast!

Makes the perfect gift. www.PE-magazine.com

see your pet IN PRINT send your photos to:

PHOTOS@PE-magazine.coMm

34 Dogs and Horses Take to the Trails

INSIDE

8-10 COVER

Reader Spotlight

Toad

Meet Amy and Bryan Reim and their critters

OUR

animals mean so much to us.

These pets mean that there is always someone to comfort us when nobody else is there. They mean that there will be someone there that will listen to you, without judging you; someone that is happy to see us with lots of tail wags when we are coming home--even if they tore up and ate another loaf of bread. My animals mean a lot of things to me: friendship, companionship, confidante, bed warmer, foot warmer, person walker, backyard checker, food checker (eat it first to make sure it isn’t bad). I can’t imagine my life without a pet. Pets are supposed to keep you young. My mom says I should be back in diapers by now!!

Amy with her pups.

Diesel, Holly and Vegas

Bryan and Holly

I volunteer and foster for Merlin’s Refuge (merlinsrefuge. com) in Omaha. I have been with them for about ten years.

I have fostered many kittens for the Refuge and have even bottled babies. I am also very proud to volunteer for Rocky Mountain Great Dane Rescue (rmgreatdane.org). I have been with the Rescue since March of this year. The Rescue keeps us very busy with Meet and Greets, parades, Bark in the Parks--you name it. The Rescue is a great organization to belong to.

more inside 7

Abby

Pet Psychics

Gracie

16 Ask the Vet 20 Hoof Beat

We are grateful to have a lot of critters in our lives. Pictured are some of the pets we have.

The Great Danes, tortoises and rats are all rescues. Forgive me for not having the cats included, but trying to get a pictures of them is almost impossible most times. We rescued the tortoises from Rick’s Reptile Rescue in Lincoln, NE. Thanks to Rick for giving us the opportunity to have these wonderful creatures in our lives!!!

I heard about this magazine from Dr. Pauli at Prairie View Animal hospital in Wahoo, NE. He is the best vet we have ever used. After Dr. Pauli visited about the PE Magazine, we recognized how well the Magazine supports rescue efforts in the area!!! PE

26 Scaled Down 32 Kids Tails Oscar

Kiwi

39 Paws and Remember

Chi-Chi

Mabel Minna - AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION

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Larry, Daryl and Cheeseburger

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Pet Psychics Comunicating with Animals

by Tess N. Sykes

W

hen a 70 mile per-hour wind whipped through Waterford Township in Michigan in April, it carried away a five-pound chihuahua, Tinkerbell. Her owners immediately started a search. Eventually, they found her about a mile away – and gave credit to a pet psychic for pointing them in the right direction.

When someone stole a dog in Enterprise, Mississippi in 2003, it’s owner called a Seattle, Washington pet psychic. According to news reports, the local police chief said tips from the psychic helped locate the dog.

These pet psychics, some prefer to be called animal intuitives or animal communicators, aren’t limited to finding lost pets; they also advertise their assistance with behavioral or physical problems, final decisions in times of fatal illness, communications with deceased animals and relationshipbuilding.

Thousands of pet owners in the United States have changed food, toys, bedding, or behaviors because of information gleaned from sessions with a pet psychic. At least one person even changed homes after a consultation for her dog. Psychics are available at Westminster, at fund-raisers and as part of some shelter events. A Google search for pet psychics brings up 513,000 results. A search for animal communicators returns ten million results.

According to a general review of pet psychic websites, the ability to communicate mind-to-mind, or telepathically, is a natural talent. As humans grow, these psychics claim, verbal and physical communications replace or overwrite these abilities for

most. The psychics hone their skills to increase their ability to receive visual “signals” or pictures from the animal to provide the owner information on the health, preferences or wellbeing of the animal. Because it is a two-way communication, some psychics will make suggestions back to the animal as reassurance or relationship-building. Some have even consulted on cases involving wild animals.

These telepathic readings can be done in person or via a phone call. Some request the animal’s name, some background information, a picture or some combination of these. Others need just a name. Most request a general question the owner would like answered during the session. Skeptics of the profession believe these psychics are actually using a form of “cold reading,” gleaning information from the owners through a series of leading questions and essentially repeating back what they learn.

Cost for psychic consultations vary widely. Sonya Fitzpatrick, the pet psychic featured on the Animal Planet show “The Pet Psychic,” in 2002-2003, charges $300 for a 30-minute consultation according to one website. Others charge as little as $25 for a 30minute reading over the phone, or $75 for locating a lost animal.

Although some pet psychics claim to be able to communicate with the animal regarding the location of physical pain and may give direction as to the location of pain based on the images or emotional connection made with the animal, they are not physicians. Consulting this type of therapist should never replace regular veterinary care, proper nutrition or necessary exercise for a pet. PE

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2009 Cover Photo Contest Winner

PE

PE

September.October

September and October are full of events!

Additional events listed at www.PE-magazine.com

Saturday, September 19 - 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Little White Dog Rescue at Three Dog Bakery - 168th & Villiage Pointe - Omaha www.littlewhitedogrescue.org

LOCAL EVENTS - RECURRING

Saturday, September 19 11:00 AM 7th annual “Lee Tackett Memorial Run” Benefiting S.O.L.A.S. Sign-up: 11:00 AM-1p.m. at McGee’s Bar & Grill, 401 S. Omaha Bridge Rd. (Veterans Highway now) in Council Bluffs.

Run ends at T’S Tavern, 2400 9th Avenue, Co. Bluffs. Rain or shine. Entry fee is $15 for one or $25 for two. Best and Worst hand prizes, raffles, 50/50 drawing, and free food for run participants. Can’t make the run join us for the fun, $5 donation at T’s. For more information, contact Deena @ 402-319-3555.

September 20-26 - National Dog Week October 1-31 - Adopt a Dog Month October 29 - National Cat Day

Saturdays YAPPYTIME - Play Time for Dogs 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM All Dog Group 12:30 - 1:30 PM Small Dogs (30 lbs and under) Ralston Vet Clinic - 6880 S 78th St 1st Saturday of each month POTTAWATTAMIE COUNTY ADOPTION 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM - Council Bluffs, IA Camping World 2nd Sunday of each month POTTAWATTAMIE COUNTY ADOPTION 12:30 PM -2:30 PM - Madison Ave Goodwill Store - Council Bluffs, IA 2nd Sunday of each month BASIC EXOTIC BIRD WORKSHOP Hosted By: Beak n Wings. 2:00 PM – Omaha Boy Scouts Headquarters – 120th & Maple http://beaknwings.org Last Sunday of each month POTTAWATTAMIE COUNTY ADOPTION 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM - Bomgaars on Kanesville Blvd - Council Bluffs, IA

SEPTEMBER Saturday, September 12 - 8:30 AM HETRA 8th Annual Little Britches Horse Show - Skyline Ranch Arena - Elkhorn www.hetra.org or 402.359.8830 Saturday, September 12 - 9:00 AM - NOON Saint Bernard Rescue at Village Pointe Farmer’s Market - 168th & Dodge - Omaha Meet adoptable dogs and learn more about their rescue. www.saintsrule.org

Sunday, September 20 - NOON - 2:00 PM GRRIN Gold Rush Carnival Fun. Games. Picnic Lunch.l Nebraska Humane Society - 89th & Fort - Omaha www.grrin.org Sunday, September 20 - NOON - 2:30 PM Tails and Trails Pet Walk Capital Humane Society. Register by September 11 - Lincoln www.capitalhumanesociety.org Sunday, September 20 - 12:30 PM Running with the Wieners Hosted by Platt Duetsche of Grand Island. www.thepd.net/events.html www.nebraskadachshundrescue.org Tuesday, September 22 - 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM Saint Bernard Rescue at Mama’s Pizza West Fundraiser- 15615 Pacific St - Omaha Join us for pizza and pasta to help raise funds.

15% of proceeds will be donated to our rescue. Please mention our group name when ordering. www.saintsrule.org Saturday, September 26 - 9:00 AM - NOON Saint Bernard Rescue at Village Pointe Farmer’s Market - 168th & Dodge - Omaha Meet adoptable dogs and learn more about their rescue. www.saintsrule.org

Saturday, September 12 - 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Midwest Dachshund Festival Vermillion County Fairgrounds - 17520 N 1180 Saturday, September 26 - 10:00 AM Heritage Parade Sponsored by AKSARBEN East Rd - Oakwood IL www.drna.org River City Round Up. Saturday, September 12 - 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM www.nebraskadachshundrescue.org Little White Dog Rescue at PetSmart Saturday, September 26 - 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM 17035 Evans Plaza - Omaha Kenl Inn of Lincoln’s Responsible Dog www.littlewhitedogrescue.org Ownership Day. 10241 Old Cheney Rd Lincoln. Go to www.kenl-inn.com Sunday, September 13 - 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM for more information on how to participate.

Little White Dog Rescue at PetSmart 7903 Towne Center Parkway - Papillion Sunday, September 27 - 7:30 AM www.littlewhitedogrescue.org Swing for the Animals benefiting Hooves & Paws Rescue. Detailed info and Sign Up info Sunday, September 13 - 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM at www.hoovespaws.org.

Papio Bay Doggie Dip 815 E. Halleck St. - Papillion Sunday, September 27 - 8:00 AM - NOON http://www.papillion.org/recreation_papio_ Margre Durham Walk for the Animals bay.cfm Nebraska Humane Society Campus 8929 Fort Street. Register and begin getting donations Sunday, September 13 - 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM on line at www.nehumanesociety.org/walk PetSmart Adoption Days with Saint Bernard Rescue - Adopt. Foster. Volunteer.

Donate. 170th & Maple - Omaha Saturday and Sunday, September 19-20 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM NKC 2009 Herding Trial Sunshine Farm - 11092 240th St - Council Bluffs, IA. For more information, go to www.nebraskakennelclub.org Saturday, September 19 - NOON - 4:00 PM Nebraska Border Collie Rescue at PetSmart Hwy 370 - Papillion http://rescuebc.homestead.com/

OCTOBER

Month of October Yankee Hill Candle Sale Benefiting Saint Bernard Rescue. Delivery guaranteed by Christmas! For more information, go to www. saintsrule.org.

Thursday, October 1 - 6:15 PM Lincoln Animal Ambassadors Meeting St. Matthews Episcopal Church 2325 S. 24th Street - Lincoln. www.lincolnanimalambassadors.com

Saturday, October 3 - 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM Fall Dog Day Afternoon Elmwood Park - S. of 76th & Dodge - Omaha

EVENTS

NATIONAL PET RECOGNITION DAYS

Saturday, October 10 - 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM 12th Annual Sandhills Cat Club CFA See The Cat House at this event! Ag Pavilion - 500 N 14th - Seward. www.thecathouse.org Saturday, October 10 - 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Kenl Inn of Lincoln’s Dog Behavior & Food Seminar Seminar with Tom and Sarah Gunlick on dog behavior and food and how it affects your family. 10241 Old Cheney Rd - Lincoln. Go to www.kenl-inn.com for more information.

Sunday, October 11 - 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM DogFest Host: Platte Valley Kennel Club of Fremont. Sanctioned B/OB match conformation and obedience - Entries close at 10:30 AM Echocardiograms. Cost: $185.00 (checks made payable to Platte Valley Kennel Club) - advance reservations required by Oct 7. Christiansen Field - 1710 W. 16th - Fremont, Saturday, October 17 - 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 1st Annual Friends of the Jeanette Hunt Blair Animal Shelter Craft Show Fundraiser. Craft show featuring handcrafted goods ONLY, over 30 quality vendors plus concessions available on site, as well as fundraising Bake Sale. Raffles held every 15 minutes all day long! - Blair www.blairanimalshelter.org Saturday, October 17 - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday, October 18 - 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM The Great Iowa Pet Expo 4H Building, Iowa State Fairgrounds. Enter Gate 9. The Classic K9 Extreme Team. Animal Planet dog trainer Joel Silverman. Shopping.

Meet the Breed. www.GreatIowaPetExpo.com

Saturday, October 17 - NOON - 4:00 PM Nebraska Border Collie Rescue at PetSmart Hwy 370 - Papillion http://rescuebc.homestead.com/ Saturday, October 24 - 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM GSP Rescue Growl-O-Ween Chalco Hills - Omaha Sunday, October 25 - NOON – 4:00 PM Pug-O-Ween 2009 National Guard Armory - 72nd and Mercy Omaha. Annual fundraiser to raise money for the Pug Rescue. www.pugpartners.com Sunday, October 25 - 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM Boston Boo Halloween Party Free Admission. All Breeds Welcome.

Bobbing for hotdogs, costume contests, bake sale, nail trimming, raffles, microchipping.

Seymour Smith Park - 72nd & Washington - Omaha. www.adoptaboston.com or call 402.510.1346 for more information.

Friday, October 30 - 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM Halloween Doggie Boo (Pet Parade) Hosted by: Sherman Community Center and Florence Community Center. Ghoulish treats and frightful sights. Pets in costume parade. Florence Community Center - 2920 Bondesson St - Omaha Sunday, October 31 - 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM Kenl Inn’s Howl-O-Ween Party 10241 Old Cheney Rd - Lincoln. Go to www.kenl-inn.com for more information on how to participate.

Behavior IMPROV Provided by Dumb Friends’ League www.ddfl.org

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scaping is a serious problem for both you and your dog as it can have tragic consequences.

If your dog is running loose, he is in danger of being hit by a car, being injured in a fight with another dog, or being hurt in a number of other ways. Additionally, you are liable

Why Dogs Escape: Social Isolation/Frustration Your dog may be escaping because he is bored or lonely if: • He is left alone for long periods of time without opportunities for interaction with you.

• His environment is relatively barren, without playmates or toys.

• He is a puppy or adolescent (under three years old) and does not have outlets for his energy.

• He is a particularly active type of dog (like the herding or sporting breeds) who needs an active job in order to be happy.

• The place he goes to when he escapes provides him with interaction and fun things to do. For example, he goes to play with a neighbor’s dog or to the local schoolyard to play with the children.

Recommendations: We recommend expanding your dog’s world and increasing

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The Canine Escape Artist Outwitting the Curious

for any damage or injury your dog may cause and you may be required to pay a fine if he is detained by an animal control agency. In order to resolve an escaping problem, you must determine not only how your dog is getting out, but also why he is escaping. his “people time” in the following ways: • Walk your dog daily; it is good exercise for both of you.

• Teach your dog to fetch a ball or Frisbee and practice with him as often as possible.

• Teach your dog a few commands and/or tricks. Practice these commands and/or tricks every day for five to ten minutes.

• Take an obedience class with your dog and practice daily what you have learned.

• Provide interesting toys to keep your dog busy when you are not home. You can also rotate the toys to keep them interesting (see our handout: “Dog Toys and How to Use Them”).

• Keep your dog inside when you are unable to supervise him.

• If you work very long days, take your dog to a “doggie day care” or ask a friend or neighbor to walk your dog.

Sexual Roaming Dogs become sexually mature at around six months of age. An intact dog is motivated by a strong, natural drive to seek out a mate. It can be very difficult to prevent an intact dog from escaping because their motivation to do so is very high.

Recommendations: • Have your male dog neutered. Studies show that neutering will decrease sexual roaming in about 90 percent of the cases. If, however, an intact male has established a pattern of escaping, he may continue to do so even after he’s neutered. So, it is important to have him neutered as soon as possible.

• Have your female dog spayed. If your intact female dog escapes your yard while she is in heat, she’ll probably get pregnant. Millions of unwanted pets are euthanized every year.

Please do not contribute to pet overpopulation by allowing your female dog to breed indiscriminately.

Fears and Phobias Your dog may be escaping in response to something he is causing fear if he escapes when he is exposed to loud noises, such as thunderstorms, firecrackers or construction sounds.

Recommendations: • Identify what is frightening your dog and desensitize him to it (see our handout: “Helping Your Dog Overcome the Fear of Thunder and Other Startling Noises”). Check with your veterinarian about giving your dog an anti-anxiety medication while you work on behavior modification.

• Leave your dog indoors when he is likely to encounter the fear stimulus. Mute noise by leaving him in a basement or windowless bathroom and leave on a television, radio or loud fan.

• Provide a “safe place” for your dog. Observe where he likes to go when he feels anxious, then allow access to that space, or create a similar space for him to use when the fear stimulus is present.

Separation Anxiety Your dog may be escaping due to separation anxiety if: • He escapes as soon as, or shortly after, you leave.

• He displays other behaviors that reflect a strong attachment to you, such as following you around, frantic greetings or reacting anxiously to your preparations to leave.

• He remains near your home after he has escaped.

Factors that can precipitate a separation-anxiety problem: • There has been a change in your family’s schedule that has resulted in your dog being left alone more often.

• Your family has moved to a new house.

• There’s been a death or loss of a family member or another family pet.

• Your dog has recently spent time at an animal shelter or boarding kennel.

Recommendations: Separation anxiety can be resolved using counter-conditioning and desensitization techniques (see Dumb Friends’ League’s handout entitled “Separation Anxiety”) ...continue on page 15

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Featured Products

Four Big Drawers

Great new foraging toy. Four large drawers to fill with treats. All the birds just love trying to get to the goodies. Measures 6” x 6” x 4.5”.

Price: $31.95 www.smartbirdtoys.com

HydroSurge Rapid Bath Dog Bathing System The Rapid Bath Dog Bathing System is an “all-in-one” wet, wash and rinse dog bathing solution. The shower jets provide a massaging action and the product’s patented InjectAir technology draws shampoo and oxygen into the water simultaneously to create instant sudsing— rinsing off dirt whilst fresh suds continue to clean. The nozzle’s comb head allows you to remove loose hair and dander whilst untangling fur at the same time. Cartridges come in a choice of five different shampoo types.

Price: $46.49. www.amazon.com or www.rapidbath.com

Crinkle Ball for Cats

Crinkle Balls are specifically designed to encourage your cat’s natural hunting instinct.

Set of 2: Price: $7.95 www.catclaws.com

Hydro Horse

For the Fishies

Advanced filtration material. Better than carbon alone! Convenient pouches treat up to 20 gallons.

Price: $4.40 - $5.59 www.marinedepot.com 14

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The Hydro Horse Submerged Treadmill System is a combination of a treadmill, whirlpool, and swimming pool for horses to exercise in.

In essence, the horse is partially buoyant in a water filled tank, which also allows contact with the treadmill. The temperature controlled water with Jacuzzi jets are designed to relax muscles and reduce any trauma usually caused by land exercises. Owners can choose the speed, duration and distance for horses.

The Hydro Horse is great for injured horses in need of physical therapy. Prices range according to the model type. Price: Price: $56,000 - $81,000

Canine Escape Artist....continues from page 13.

How Dogs Escape: Some dogs jump fences, but most actually climb them, using some part of the fence to push off from. A dog may also dig under the fence, chew through the fence, learn to open a gate or use any combination of these methods to get out of the yard. Knowing how your dog gets out will help you to modify your yard.

However, until you know why your dog wants to escape, and you can decrease his motivation for doing so, you will not be able to successfully resolve the problem.

Recommendations for Preventing Escape: For climbing/jumping dogs: Add an extension to your fence that tilts in toward the yard. The extension does not necessarily need to make the fence much higher, as long as it tilts inward at about a 45-degree angle. For digging dogs: Bury chicken wire at the base of your fence (with the sharp edges rolled inward), place large rocks at the base, or lay chain-link fencing on the ground.

Punishment • Never punish your dog after he is already out of the yard. Dogs associate punishment with what they are doing at the time they are punished. Punishing your dog after the fact will not eliminate the escaping behavior, but will only make him afraid to come to you.

• Never punish your dog if the escaping is a fear-related problem or is due to separation anxiety. Punishing fear-motivated behaviors will only make your dog more afraid, and thus make the problem worse.

• Chaining your dog should only be used as a last resort, and then only as a temporary measure until a more permanent solution can be found. Chaining your dog does not give him sufficient opportunity for exercise and can be dangerous if done improperly (see Dumb Friends League’s handout entitled “Keeping Your Dog Confined to your Property”). PE

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ASK THE VET

by Dr. Monte Pauli

To Vaccinate or Not to Vaccinate?

Feline Vaccination Guidelines

V

accination programs for cats have been major topics of discussions among veterinarians in recent years, primarily because of concerns about vaccine safety, the number of commercially available vaccines, and an incomplete knowledge of duration and extent of protection provided by certain vaccines.

Vaccines play an important role in the control of infectious diseases. However, some vaccines do not induce complete protection from infection or disease, and they do not induce the same degree of protection in all cats. Exposure to infected animals and infectious agents should be minimized, even in vaccinated cats. The risk of infection and subsequent disease varies with the age and health of the cat, the extent of its exposure to the agent and to other cats, and the disease presence in the area.

Some factors negatively affect an individual cat’s ability to respond to vaccination. These include an already weakened immune system, other medical diseases or infections the cat may already have, suboptimal nutrition, and use of medications that suppress the immune system. In a perfect world, every cat would be healthy prior to vaccination.

Kittens are generally more susceptible to infection and development of severe disease than older cats. Thus,

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kittens represent the principal target population for vaccination. A routine health care program developed by veterinarians for a cat population should be assessed yearly and modified as health risks change. In addition, vaccination is a medical procedure that should be based on risk/benefit assessment for each cat and every vaccine, whether the vaccine is a core or non-core one. Vaccines are often beneficial, but not without risks, so the amount of protection gained must be weighed against the adverse effects associated with the vaccination. Each cat should be vaccinated no more frequently than necessary and should be vaccinated only for infectious agents which pose a risk of exposure, infection, and resultant disease.

The core vaccines (don’t be caught without these!) are ones that are recommended for all cats. They are: FPL (Feline Panleukopenia), FHV-1 (Feline Herpes Virus), and FCV (Feline Calicivirus), as well as rabies. Noncore vaccines should be administered to cats in specific risk categories. The Feline Practitioners advisory panel believes vaccines against FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus), FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus), Chlamydophila felis, and Bordetella are warranted for certain outdoor and co-mingled cats. There is a group of “not generally recommended” vaccines that have little or no indication for use and may not provide protection to many cats, and these have had a history of adverse events after vaccination. These include FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis) and Giardia.

Attempts have been made to develop vaccines that create less inflammation at vaccine sites. These are called non-adjuvanted, and some examples are the FeLV and rabies virus vaccines, as well as an inactive FPV (Feline Parvovirus) vaccine. Some newer vaccines are administered intranasally (through the nose) and require a lower dosage (examples are FHV-1 and FVC), and there are even newer recombinant (which lessen the chance of a cat becoming sick from the vaccine) FeLV vaccines available.

Immune Response to Vaccination and Infection Two major types of immunity prevent and/or limit infectious disease: natural (innate) and acquired (adaptive). Innate immunity is one that a cat is born with and develops more fully during the course of their life. Younger animals are known to be more susceptible to disease than their older counterparts. For a kitten, that period of increased susceptibility is often the first three to six months of life, but it can be up to one year of age. The older the cat, the more immune they become to certain diseases. That is not to say, however, that older cats do not get diseases.

Acquired immunity is stimulated when an animal is vaccinated or exposed to an infectious agent or other antigen. The body creates an immune response against that foreign agent and then remembers how to protect itself if it encounters it in the future. Vaccinations are used to introduce viruses, bacteria and parasites (foreign to the cat’s natural immune system) to the cat’s body, thus creating an immune response. The immune response uses several types of immunity-producing cells (called lymphocytes) and a complex biochemical process to provide long-term protection for the cat.

In summary, young animals are especially susceptible to the common disease and need to be managed appropriately by practices that manage exposure to risk factors, such as co-mingling with unvaccinated animals, especially those which might be incubating and shedding disease-causing agents. Kittens should be vaccinated with an approved vaccine at an appropriate interval for the core disease agents until an age when maternally-derived (i.e. from the mother) antibodies are no longer present. Provide optimal nutrition for growth and ensure that your young pet is parasitefree. As always, please consult your veterinarian for any questions you may have regarding your pet’s health. PE Dr. Monte Pauli earned a B.S. in Animal Nutrition at Colorado State University and went on to graduate from Iowa State University with a D.V.M. degree in 1971.

He has worked in clinics in Wisconsin, as well as Lexington, NE. Dr. Pauli and his wife Connie reside in Wahoo, NE, where he has owned a veterinarian clinic for the past 28 years.

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Now Hear This!

Lincoln Animal Ambassadors Establishes Pet Food Bank

Local Pet News

To submit a press release, please email editor@pe-magazine.com.

Football Fanatics Won’t Worry About Fido This Fall

‘Happy’s Game Day Pass” promotion from Dogtopia of Omaha offer peace of mind to dog and pigskin lovers across the area!

Lincoln Animal Ambassadors, a nonprofit educational animal organization in Lincoln, has established a much needed Pet Food Bank designed to provide temporary assistance to those pet owners who are struggling in the current economy.

Lincoln Animal Ambassadors promotes enriching the community of Lincoln through progressive thinking, education, awareness and public support while improving the lives of animals and alleviating cruelty in Lincoln and the surrounding area. Ambassadors is committed to creating a positive change for homeless animals and has a number of topics of discussion on their Education Committee page located on their website. Lincoln Animal Ambassadors is also available for presentations.

Please contact Ambassadors if you would like to donate to their Pet Food Bank. Food for any type of pet is being accepted. If you need assistance with feeding your pet, go to www.Lincolnanimalambassadors.org , or email info@ LincolnAnimalAmbassadors.org

La Vista, NE - As summer began to wind down, Nicholle Reisdorff, owner of the popular paw-spot, Dogtopia of Omaha, found she was fielding questions from clients regarding dropping their precious pups off early on Saturdays to accommodate a day of tail-gating.

Fridays and pick-up before Noon each Sunday for an all-inclusive cost of $75. During their stay they’ll enjoy open playtime with other dogs in a large playroom suited to their specific size, temperament and play style, as well as outdoor time and even a naptime to give them a break in the middle of the day. Dogtopia promises you’ll pick up a happy, tired pup and receive a goodie bag to take home with you.

“Once I received so many requests I knew we had to come up with something special, so our clients could enjoy a great day of football and know their dog is happy and well taken care of,” Reisdorff commented.

As an added bonus, each stay qualifies the dog for an entry into a raffle of pet and sports related prizes. Multiple stays will receive multiple entries and winners will be selected at the end of the season.

The result was “Happy’s Game Day Pass”. During the college football season, clients may drop their dog off at Dogtopia after 2:00pm on

Dogtopia of Omaha is located at 13239 Portal Drive, Suite 103 in La Vista. All dogs must be evaluated prior to a daycare or boarding stay. Phone 402-502-4797 for more information.

Dancing Dog Company Expands By Offering Pet Portraits For Local Businesses, Their Clients and Employees As one of this area’s location only pet photographers, The Dancing Dog Company has expanded their pet photography services by working with local businesses in offering pet portraits for their clients and employees. By offering to shoot on location, they are able to work with pet owners’ schedules and offer unique, professional photographic portraits.

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Several dates are booked throughout the remainder of the 2009. A calendar of these upcoming events can be seen at www.thedancingdogco.net. All of these events are open to the public. Companies that would like to provide pet photography sessions can contact Melody Falcone at 402.404.0260 or by email at info@thedancingdogco.net.

Michelle Backlund, DVM, CCRT, joins the staff of Backlund Animal Dr. Michelle Backlund has joined the staff at Backlund Animal Clinic in West Omaha.

Michelle follows in the footsteps of her father, Dr. Nels Backlund, who started the practice in 1977.

Michelle grew up in Omaha and graduated from Millard West High School, Class of 1999. She earned a Bachelor of Science at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln and went on to Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where she became

a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in 2007. Michelle worked at Sylvania Vet in Ohio for a year before returning to Omaha.

Michelle also attended the Canine Rehabilitation Institute, a partner of Colorado State University, and is the first Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) in Nebraska. Michelle is using her experience to offer a new service through Backlund Animal Clinic, called Canine Rehabilitation and Wellness, as the first and only certified physical rehabilitation service for dogs in Nebraska. Canine Rehabilitation and Wellness utilizes high technology, including an underwater treadmill, and personal touch to advance the overall health of dogs. “Dogs are our best friends and companions in life for leisure, work and recreation. Often the stress and injury they endure goes unnoticed and untreated,” said Michelle. “At Canine Rehabilitation and Wellness, I work with dog owners to improve

the physical activity of their pets so they can work and play healthier, and live happier.”

For more information on Backlund Animal Clinic and Canine Rehabilitation and Wellness, please visit www. backlundanimalclinic.com or call 402-334-1580.

A New Breed In Town - Horton K9 Opens in Bellevue, NE Caring for a police K-9 is like caring for any other dog. And it isn’t.

Law enforcement and military K-9s are highly-trained animals bred for generations to serve and protect.

They go over training skills weekly for 8 hours or more. They are asked to be in tense, dangerous and crowded situations, in close contact with others. To do their job well, the dogs and handlers require equipment that is just as tough.

Across the country, specialty manufacturer’s produce handling equipment created specifically for these working dogs. One of those, Horton’s Handcrafted Quality K-9 Equipment, relocated to Bellevue, Nebraska in December. Since then, Susan Horton said, members of K9 units from Omaha, Bellevue, Sioux City, Iowa, Washington County and others, have visited the retail shop.

“We’ve gotten a lot of compliments,” she said. “They tell us, ‘It’s so great to have a store here.’” Horton’s bills itself as the oldest and largest custom manufacturer of canine equipment in the United States. Family owned and operated, the company was founded in 1972 when Robert Horton turned a sewing hobby into a business after making equipment for members of the Greater Atlanta Schutzhund Club. From a 900 square-foot shop, the business has expanded into over 7,700 square feet of manufacturing and retail space in Bellevue.

Horton’s manufacturers over 150 K-9 products, including leads and lines, collars, crates, bowls, treats, harnesses, K-9 care products and protective handler clothing. They also have access to 60,000 square feet of indoor training structures and 29 acres of land. Horton said kennels are currently under construction and the goal is to team with other dog-related businesses to create a one-stop shop for dogs. A one-stop quality shop to be sure.

by Tess N. Sykes

“Service K-9 equipment has to be made stronger than your typical pet product,” Horton said. “They must hold up to high demands and have a reliable life span while improving their K-9 partner skills.

When we design our K-9 equipment, we first test it for safety, then durability, and finally for comfort for the K-9 and the handler.”

To produce the strongest leads possible, Horton’s handbraids its leather leashes. In fact, stop by their retail store and they will custom make a leash. Truly, she said, the work is a work of art, and a work of service, something people in Nebraska seem to be appreciating.

“Since our move, we have experienced an increase in interest in our products by the general public,” she said. “People can appreciate the advantages of a quality leather leash and collar that will provide years of service and a comfortable fit.”

To learn more about Horton’s, go to hortonsk9.com or call 932-9144. Horton’s retail store at 301 N. Washington St. in Bellevue is opened Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m-5 p.m. and Saturdays by appointment.

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Hoof Beat with Denise & The Cowboy

NOTE: Handling horses on the ground and under saddle poses potentially serious risks of injury to participants. Any application of the techniques, ideas, and suggestions from Denise Maryanski is at the reader’s sole discretion and risk.

by Denise Maryanski

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elcome to Hoof Beat! Groundtraining exercises are beneficial to all disciplines. When we understand the horse’s natural herd behavior and work “with,” not against it, we achieve harmony and softness. We establish trust, the horse learns to relax, and we can indeed lead a wonderful dance! Exercises done well on the ground will be transferred to great responsiveness when done under saddle.

Going Forward with Control: It seems easy enough. Just pop on that old halter, grab a lead rope and off you go!

Well, maybe. Leading a horse properly, but most of all safely, should be one of your daily learning exercises. Even on a trip from the barn to the pasture, my horses must go through this series: Face Me: When approaching the stall door, have your halter and lead rope in hand. Cluck or call his name and let him come to you. Reward his attention with a friendly word and stroke; no patting, please, at the shoulder. If he is hard to “catch” in a stall, seek professional training.

Head Down: My horses think my arms don’t reach higher than my shoulder height because I expect them to dive their little noses into those halters when I say “Head Down.“ It all starts with a head down “button” that can be put on young and aged horses alike. Start off with your horse in a well fitted halter with lead rope attached. Stand at the place of authority at the horse’s shoulder with your toes pointed to his front foot. Hold the clip end of the lead rope close under the horse’s throat. Say “Head Down” and make a little clucking sound while adding steady, but

Relaxed “Head Down” position

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easy, pressure on the lead rope to move the horse’s head down. FEEL for any “give” to the pressure and release that pressure IMMEDIATELY when the horse lowers his head.

Even the slightest of downward movement, give, must be acknowledged! Reward with a “good boy/girl” and a stroke to the shoulder. This is an amazing and powerful button every horse should have. If there is any resistance or head throwing, just take it slowly, looking for only the minimum of give at first. As always in horse training, be calm and consistent, taking baby steps toward your goal.

Never force pressure. Not only is it great for haltering, the horse will lower his head at the sound of the command; and the clucking will also prepare the horse and rider for the give and take of the bridle while riding.

Walk Off: Being a chatty gal, I communicate with my horses verbally along with body language. It is amazing how many words and phrases horses recognize when used consistently. Consistency is the key. But, by the time I say “Come On,” I have given my horse a “heads up” by

“It is amazing how many words and phrases horses recognize when used consistently.” holding the lead rope properly as if I am holding a tray of glasses. I am looking forward, eyes up, shoulders square with my body slightly forward. This “tells” my horse I am a confident leader so he can relax, “Come On” and walk along with me. The horse should have his head at your shoulder so you can see him in your side vision. Practice changing sides, since horses can become one sided very easily; and, this is a great exercise to expand his thinking process! But, please remember that pushing forward, dragging back, or any other unwanted horse behavior should not be tolerated for your safety! Again, seek professional help.

Introducing the halter after the “Head Down” cue

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A smile with relaxed body position at the Stop

Change Pace: Once you are on your way, you can have a practice changing your pace by changing the speed of your walk. I lift the lead rope slightly (it connects to the slight lift of the reins while riding) to give my horse a “heads up” that something will be changing--so pay attention! Lean a little forward and quicken your pace. and the horse will follow. Or lean back a bit, exhale, and shorten your stride to slow him. This smilingly, simple walk has now become a great training exercise when extended stride, and even add a soft trot! Turn to the right or left with your eyes first, shoulders second, feet third. Once your horse is truly “listening” to your voice and body language, his movements will follow your lead.

Whoa: Exhale, relax your body and begin to slow down when you reach your destination. You can say “Easy” to help your horse understand that a stop is coming then say “Whoa”, lean back and stop squarely. Your horse will be watching your body and by understanding your signals, he will stop and relax. Remember: if you use the word “Whoa” mean it! If you are just slowing down, say “Easy” and keep “Whoa” as a no-nonsense accepted STOP. Congratulations! You have led your dance partner to your destination! This leading series can help you truly “communicate with confidence.”

There are many, many great training resources out there.

Take time for your equine education. Books, magazines, internet, videos, clinics! You and your horse will reap the benefits of your efforts. Remember, you bought the ride, not the horse!

Please be safe, have fun, and keep yourself “In Harmony with Your Horse.” PE Denise Maryanski knows what it takes to achieve your goals! An already successful business woman, she added horsemanship clinician to her resume after she blew out 50 candles on her cake! Her equine line is Quiet Control Products featuring Quiet Control Reins and Quiet Control Relax.

In Harmony with Your Horse Clinics, private lessons, and the PEGASUS On Board Leadership Program are presented at her arena in Papillion, NE, and stables throughout the area. Denise will host The Masters Series, featuring Stan Steyskal, an AQHA Top 5 All-Time Leading Breeder, who will start Summer ‘09 by presenting Starting Off Right! Denise strives to make her programs and lessons the most unique and inspirational experience you will have with a horse. Visit her website at www. pegasusempoweringwomen.com for more information.

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Paw-Paw-Razzi!

Ellie Mae - Sandie L.

Darth Dargo - Ryan R. Diego - Luis & Diana

Hendrix - Heather P.

Jaimie - Julie H. & Ray K.

Henry - Kat & Randy C.

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Chloe - Patty B.

Emma Lou Fog - Seth W.

Jackson - Denise W.

Kristopher - Eileen S. nt hus maga i ne PetPet E ntEhus iasiast t mag a z i nz e

Lexie - Julie H. & Ray K.

Flynn - Julie Ann B.

Jagger - Jillian & Regan

Jeena & Julee - Judy & Marty K. Jimmy Buffet - Amy T. Jessie - Julie H. & Ray K.

Kirby - Lee L. Julie -Barbara M.

Cindi - Christi Z.

Brooke and Charlie

Bella - Stacy R.

Beau - Laurie O.

Lilly - Lara R.

Joey - C White

Lilly - Lara R.

Send in your favorite pet photos to photos@PE-magazine.com

Lucy - Duane & Jen B.

Linebacker- Jerry & Susie B.

Olive - Laura N.

Olias of Sunhillow - Seth W.

Roxy - Stephanie H.

Rylee - Brenda P.

Scout - Cindy W.

Sasha - Jennifer S.

Super Dargo - Ryan R.

Tucker & Georgia Bruce & Gretchen M.

Mae - Callie J.

Marley & Belle Angela & Matt S.

RenWick - Heather B.

Sabrina - Laura B.

Walter - Syd B.

Rosie - Cari T.

Sage - David & Amanda S.

Seattle- Gil C.

Moofridge- Jess S.

Sierra - Julie H. & Ray K.

Walter- Heather I.

Sam - Jennifer S.

Sophie Mae - Heidi E.

Wrigley - Kristina P.

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A “Turtle” Tale from Lincoln, NE

The African Sulcata Tortoise (Geochelone sulcata) or African Spurred Tortoise

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with Linda

Witfoth

Photography by Michael Barna

Enthusiast constantly emphasizes the importance of research when considering a new pet. While the tale below has a happy ending, it shows difficulties can arise when you purchase an animal that can outgrow and outlive its environment. Thanks to Julie and Juan Santos of Lincoln for sharing their story with Scaled Down.

Julie also said the breeder didn’t mention African Sulcatas are not only strong but champion diggers. As they grew, that became a real problem. They live in the basement once the temperature begins to drop to 50 degrees and in a huge-fenced pen during summer months.

They can move the entire fencing system around the yard or dig right under it. Juan stakes down the enclosure to keep it in place. When the tortoises were smaller, he fashioned some harnesses for them so they could graze the entire yard.

Meet two, 11-year old African Sulcata tortoises named Turtle #1 and Turtle #2 (pictured).

After years of driving by them in their outdoor pen, I mustered up the nerve to stop. Turns out, it’s not uncommon. Juan said sometimes buses stop and drivers ask if the kids can visit. They are glad the tortoises make so many people happy.

Turtle #1 and Turtle #2 are a great source of joy for the Santos family, but they have been harder to care for as they continue to grow. You can’t whistle out the back door and expect tortoises to come inside. When seasons change, Julie and Juan have to lift them out of the basement and into the yard or visa versa.

They weigh over 75 pounds each now.

Juan and Julie, longtime animal lovers, were always willing to let the kids have exotic pets. Time passed, and they found themselves at a reptile show.

That’s where they fell in love with Turtle #1 and Turtle #2, back when they fit in the palm of their hands. They thought it would be nice to bring them home for their granddaughter, Tatiana. I asked if the breeder provided detailed care information. He didn’t. So, Julie later did her own research.

The breeder only told them they get big (they are approximately 2’ – 2 ½’ long now) and to give them grass, fruits, vegetables, and feed called Mazuri (which other research supported). Sulcatas are from desert areas and survive mostly on dried vegetation. They need water, too. It’s a common misconception that tortoises get water mostly from food. During summer months, the tortoises benefit from the backyard garden. Julie said they love anything that is red, and roses are a favorite treat!

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Juan said they’ve contacted the local zoos, hoping to find a new home for their beloved pets. The zoos have declined for various reasons. Juan thinks it’s too bad because the tortoises are great with kids. They are unsure about giving them to another family that might end up in the same situation. Sulcatas can live up to 150 years--a huge commitment.

Unfortunately, zoos receive many inquiries from exotic pet owners that find it difficult to provide the animal’s needs on a long-term basis or even at all.

While it hasn’t been easy, Julie and Juan have put forth a notable effort to keep them happy and well nourished.

As the rain began to fall, I had one last question: “What is the story behind their names?” Julie said they expected the grandkids to name them, but no one ever came up with one. Over time the tortoises became Turtle #1 and Turtle #2. However, if any Pet Enthusiast readers have suggestions, they’d be glad to take them! PE Linda Witfoth has been a reptile lover for over 35 years. She has experience taking care of iguanas, geckos, skinks, frogs, newts and turtles, and is an avid self educator on how to best take care of veiled chameleons.

Backyard Bird Feeding on a Budget

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by Tess N. Sykes

eeding wild birds is a hobby that can be enduring, relaxing, educational and fun for many families. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, backyard birdfeeding and birdwatching is the fastest growing hobby second only to gardening. More than 65 million people, young and old, have tried it at some time in their lives. However, when budgets get tight, hobbies tend to be one of the items in line for cuts. Steve Probst, of Northwest Feed and Grain in Omaha, suggests that backyard bird enthusiasts consider what they’re buying along with the “what-ifs”.

“When it comes to wild bird products, spending a little extra on a high quality mix or a single product to attract a specific kind of bird can save you in the long run, help prevent unwanted weed growth under the feeder and reduce waste,” Probst said.

Cheaper bird foods available in discount stores may be full of fillers like milo and sorghum. These fillers make the mix look attractive to buyers, but not to birds. “If they don’t like it,” he said, “they will just kick it out of the feeder.”

He compares it to a bowl of Chex Mix. “I eat the pieces I like first and leave the rest,” he said. At a feeder, the “rest” lands on the ground. Left alone, the seeds can germinate into weeds, or attract mice and other rodents.

Instead, Probst suggests bird food mixes with few fillers and few shells such as Best Choice, a mix of peanut hearts, sunflower hearts and fine cracked corn. People might also consider moving to a single product food such as black oil sunflower seeds or sunflower hearts.

For enthusiasts who want to attract a certain species, such as finches, or hummingbirds, specialty feeders can help attract more birds and cut back on waste.

A bird bath is another way to attract birds to the back yard, especially if a heater is added in the winter to keep the bath icefree.

Replacing the water may be more convenient for some than worrying about buying bags of food frequently. A variety of products for heating the baths, or creating water movement, which can also attract more birds, are available. Those who do choose this option do need to remember that birds will dirty the water. Water should be changed frequently, and the “tub” should be cleaned with a wire brush at the same time.

“Birds develop patterns of feeding,” Probst

said, “If people quit feeding them, it may take

awhile to bring them back.” Asking a few questions and doing a little homework on specialty products can help enthusiasts continue their backyard birdwatching and feeding far into the future. Products such as a “bird block” are available to keep birds fed while on vacation or increase the time between feedings.

For more information on wild bird feeding products and feeders, try a specialty store in your local area. In the Omaha Metro Area, a sampling of such retail shops includes, Northwest Feet and Grain, WashCo Feed and Supply, Backyard Birds Inc., Double-K Feed Inc., For the Birds, Wild Bird Junction and Wild Birds Unlimited. PE

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Doggie Dip a Splashing Success!

Nebraska Humane Society’s Doggie Dip on August 2nd was an incredible success! Hundreds of dogs and their humane companions enjoyed the perfect day. View the video and additional photos at www.facebook.com/petenthusiastmagazine!

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Dogtopia Fundraiser for NE State Patrol K9 Units

The 2009 K9 Support dog wash sponsored by Dogtopia raised $1200 for the Nebraska State Patrol for the Police Service Dog Division. 100% of the proceeds went to the Foundation. Dogtopia washed over 50 dogs!!! There was a bake sale, raffle, and silent auction of which aided in raising funds for the Foundation. Thanks Dogtopia!

Nebraska Kennel Club Show a Big Hit

Thousands came to visit the many vendors and activities at the 2009 Nebraska Kennel Club show event in July.

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Long Dog Fat Cat Open House On Friday, July 3rd, Long Dog Fat Cat had their official store opening event “ArtWalk With Your Dog”. All guests enjoyed art submitted by local artists, wine from WineStyles neighborhood store, Napoleon torte from Lithuanian Bakery and other snacks. All dogs enjoyed food and treats. It was an incredible celebration!

Jeanneworks Event Promoting “Forever” Homes a Success The 2009 annual day-long Open House at the Forever Stainless Steel and Jeanneworks showrooms in Omaha, Nebraska featured Jorge Bendersky of Animal Planet’s Groomer Has It and Barbara Hoover of Groomers.org and the Groomers Lounge. Over 100 pet care professionals from throughout the region came to visit, shop, have lunch and participate in roundtable discussions that included information about groomer certification, customer service and Jorge’s message “Give back to your community – and you’ll help your business”.

The following day Jorge put his words into action as Forever Stainless Steel teamed up with Pam Wiese, Vice-President of Marketing and Public Relations, Nebraska Humane Society, for a shelter dog makeover event to raise awareness of regular grooming for pets and to encourage adoption. Jorge’s makeover candidate, “Bear”, a lovable and very shaggy two-year-old Schapendoes (Dutch Sheepdog) was bathed and styled in front of an audience that included photographers and reporters from three local television stations, the Omaha World-Herald newspaper and Pet Enthusiast Magazine.

The resultant published stories, photos and videos brought widespread attention to the plight of shelter dogs looking for a “forever” home. Jorge’s experience in conducting well-received pet-care workshops and pet-adoption efforts in New York City, coupled with his background in advertising and marketing are the subject of his “how-to” seminars for groomers and other pet care professionals, now being given throughout the US as a result of his partnership with Forever Stainless Steel.

For more information about Jeanneworks , please visit www.jeanneworks.com. For more information about Forever Stainless Steel, visit www.foreverstainlesssteel.com.

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Take to the Trails

ooler temperatures and vibrant colors in the trees make fall the perfect time to enjoy outdoor trails with active pets.

Many dogs enjoy a variety dryland pulling sports: “mushing activities” like canicross, bikejoring and scootering.

Dryland activities play into a dog’s natural instinct for pulling, but are designed for areas without constant snow, like Nebraska or Iowa. In each event, the dog, or dogs, usually 1-2, pull their owners, whether the human part of the team is on foot, on a bike or an all-terrain scooter.

Cam Bexten, one of the owners of BonaFide Dog Academy, has been competing in dryland pulling sports for about 3 years, becoming the first person in Nebraska to be ranked both nationally and internationally. She’s been training others in pulling sports for almost as long. In Nebraska, home of lots of larger sporting breeds just begging for exercise, Bexten’s classes have gone over very well. She suggests everyone begin with canicross.

In canicross, the owner and dog hike or run. The dog runs out front, actually pulling the owner and responding to cues for left, right, stop and go, just like a sled dog would. Any breed or size of dog can do it, and it requires only the basic equipment: specially-designed hands-free harness for the owner, a harness for the dog, and a tug line, a bungee line, connecting the two.

“It’s particularly great for high energy dogs,” she said.

“We’ve had all sizes of dogs participate, everything from a Boston Terrier to an English Mastiff.” At BonaFide, Bexten limits the class sizes to four teams, classes are

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By Tess N. Sykes

held outdoors on area trails and she suggests class members complete basic obedience training first.

“It’s a tremendous amount of fun,” she said.

Anyone interested in learning more about dog pulling events is invited to Dogs Across America, a fundraiser for the Papillion K-9 Unit, set for November 8 at Walnut Creek Recreation Area. Bexten said dog owners are welcome to just walk their dog in support of the event, but canicross, bikjoring and scootering enthusiasts will also be there. “It’s a great way for people to see what we’re talking about,” she said. More information about the Dogs Across America event and pulling sport classes, go to www.bonafidedogacademy.com.

For horses, trail rides can mean great exercise, a chance for riders to get together with friends, or even serious distance competition, depending on ability or interest. Around Nebraska and Eastern Iowa, opportunities abound for those interested in trail riding. Everything from Poker Rides to Wednesday night get-togethers and weeklong events are available. Some are free, others come with certain fees.

The Nebraska 4-H Foundation Annual Trail Ride and fundraiser is set for October 10-11 near Halsey National Forest. The event includes two days of guided rides, food, entertainment and a charity auction. The River City Roundup Trail ride actually features three trail rides lasting five days each at the end of September. Rides begin at locations across the state and end with the Heritage Parade through downtown Omaha. For more information on these rides and other horse-riding events in the area, go to www.horsetrailrides.com/horseevents.htm. PE

Recipes

Courtesy of PetPlace.com

TASTY CAT CLAWS Makes 18 treats 1/4 cup warm water 5 tablespoons parmesan cheese 3 tablespoons soft margarine 1 tablespoon cod liver oil 1 cup white flour 1/4 cup soy flour • Preheat oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Combine water, cheese, margarine and oil.

• Add flour and form a dough.

• Roll to 1/4 inch thick and cut with cookie cutter.

• Bake at 300 degrees on an ungreased cookie sheet for 2025 minutes or until cookies are lightly golden.

TRICKY TREATS FOR DOGS Makes 14 treats

2 cups water 3/4 cup canned applesauce 1/8 teaspoon vanilla 1 egg 3 cups whole-wheat flour 1 cup white flour 1/4 cup chopped nuts 1 tablespoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 cup oats • Preheat oven to 350 F. • In a bowl, mix water, applesauce, vanilla and egg thoroughly.

• In a separate blow, combine flour, nuts, baking powder, nutmeg, and cinnamon, stirring well.

• Add wet ingredients to dry and mix well.

• Spoon into greased muffin tins, filling each cup completely and bake for about 1 1/4 hours. Cool completely and store in a sealed container.

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Animal Shelter & Rescue Group Directory ANIMAL Shelters Capital Humane Society 2320 Park Blvd Lincoln, NE 68502 Tel. 402.441.4488 www.capitalhumanesociety.org The Cat House 1935 Q Street Lincoln, NE 68503 Tel. 402.441.9593 info@thecathouse.org www.thecathouse.org Council Bluffs Animal Shelter (S.O.L.A.S.) 2821 S. 15th Street Council Bluffs, IA 51501 Tel. 712.328.4656 http://solas.networku.net Hearts United for Animals Auburn, NE Tel. 402.274.3679 hua@hua.org www.hua.org Loess Hills Humane Society Mills County, IA PO Box 571 Glenwood, IA 51534 www.arfsofiowa.org Midlands Humane Society Tel. 402.541.5125 or 712.310.8554 info@midlandshumanesociety.org www.midlandshumanesociety.org Plattsmouth Animal Shelter 336 Main St., Plattsmouth, NE 68048 sbaker@plattsmouth.org

Nebraska Humane Society 8929 Fort Street Omaha, NE 68134 Tel. 402.444.7800 nhs@nehumanesociety.org nehumanesociety.org Pottawattamie County Animal Shelter 18670 Applewood Rd Council Bluffs, IA 51503 Tel. 712.366.1143 shelterpets@pottcounty.com pottcountypets.petfinder.com Town and Country Humane Society 14110 S. 84th Street Papillion, NE 68046 Tel. 402.339.5355 townandcountryhumanesociety.org Friends of the Jeanette Hunt Animal Shelter Erin Schuerman, Secretary Tel. 402.533.4540 shelterinfo@blairanimalshelter.org www.blairanimalshelter.org

CAT Breed Rescue Cat Spay/Neuter Connection PO Box 27927 Omaha, NE 68127 Tel. 402.964.2287 info@catspayneuter.org www.catspayneuter.org Feline Friendz in NE PO Box 641818 Omaha, NE 68164 Tel. 402.778.1111

DOG Breed Rescue Airedale Terrier Rescue and Adoption (ATRA) Susan 402.896.5208 Pat 402.332.5806 http://www.aire-rescue.com/ Basset and Beagle Rescue of the Heartland Kansas Tel. 800.332.9416 bbrh@bassetandbeagle.org bassetandbeagle.org Iowa Basset Rescue Sioux City, IA Cindy Foxhoven Tel. 712.204.9807 bassetrescue@yahoo.com Big Red Boxer Rescue Kearney, NE Dawn Lynch boxerrescuer@charter.net Border Collie Rescue Bellevue, NE Karen Battreall Tel. 402.292.5958 karenbattreall@cox.net nebraskabordercollierescue.com Mid-America Boston Terrier Rescue Omaha, NE Jennifer Misfeldt Tel. 402.510.1346 luckypawpals@aol.com www.adoptaboston.com Nebraska Boston Terrier Rescue Omaha, NE Jennifer Spencer Tel. 402.691.0576 or 402.210.6540 Jenjen25@aol.com www.rescueaboston.com Mid-America Bully Breed Rescue Kansas, Missouri mabbr@mabbr.org www.mabbr.org Chesapeake Bay Retriever Rescue Christie Hill - Lincoln contact

402.417.3465 cherishedchessie@gmail.com

Jan Riha - Bellevue contact

402.616.5252 chessieforme@gmail.com

www.cbrrescue.org Clumbers In Need clumbersinneed@yahoo.com www.clumbersinneed.com Nebraska Dachshund Rescue Omaha, NE Tel. 402.850.1123 nebdoxrescue@hotmail.com nebraskadachshundrescue.org

Doberman Rescue of Nebraska Omaha, NE Holli Sampson-President Tel. 402.614.4495 dron95@yahoo.com www.doberescue-ne.org English Springer Rescue America Lisa Holladay, Nebraska Coordinator Tel. 303.663.9019 lhdogsesra@hotmail.com www.springerrescue.org French Bulldog Rescue Network Lizzie Countryman Tel. 402.934.5664 lizzie23_@hotmail.com www.frenchbulldogrescue.org Great Plains Pointer Rescue Janelle Ford Tel. 402.403.8259 ford16@cox.net www.greatpointers.org Golden Retriever Rescue in Nebraska (GRRIN) Judy Hartlieb, Board President Tel. 402.330.6680 info@grrin.org www.grrin.org Rocky Mountain Great Dane Rescue Lori Rice, President Tel. 303.552.0484 adoptadane@rmgreatdane.org www.rmgreatdane.org Great Pyrenees Rescue of NE Lincoln, NE Sharon & Dave Hayes Tel. 402.488.8983 gpr_of_ne@radiks.net http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/ NE42.html Heartland Greyhound Adoption Iowa - Jody Evans 515.210.0459 davidjody2@g.com Nebraska - Ryan Thurber 402.517.6407 rthurber3@cox.net www.heartlandgreyhoundadoption.org Nebraska Italian Greyhound Rescue Scott B Tel. 402.580.0686 lincolnigs@yahoo.com http://nebraskaigs.petfinder.org Jack Russell Terrier Rescue Kerry Dahlheim Tel. 402.963.9722 flyingjrt@aol.com petfinder.com/shelters/NE35.html Heart of America Newfoundland NE, KS, MO, SW IA, OK Marty Swindell Tel. 816.690.3449 hancrescue@hanc.net www.hanc.net Papillon 911 Rescue and Adoption Erika Dey Tel. 402.214.7315 paprescue@mac.com www.pap911rescue.org

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www.petfinder.com/shelters/NE27.html

Coalition for Pet Protection PO Box 23165 Lincoln, NE 68542 Tel. 402.434.7922 http://petcoalition.tripod.com

Pug Partners of Nebraska Jessica Karnish Tel. 402.669.0854 pugpartners@gmail.com www.pugpartners.com

Domesti-PUPS Lincoln, NE Tel. 866.515.PUPS info@domesti-pups.org www.domesti-pups.org

NE/IA Saint Bernard Rescue Heather Braddock Tel. 402.431.0272 saintsrescue@aol.com www.saintsrule.org

Good Dog Rescue of NE Bev Sack Tel. 402.780.2144 dobiersqu@yahoo.com www.gooddogrescueofnebraska.com

Midwest Schipperke Rescue Mark Rossignol, Volunteer Tel. 402.466.5596 or 402.617.4150 schiprescue-ne@therossignols.net www.petfinder.com/shelters/ midwestschipperkerescue.html

Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA) Valley, NE Tel. 402.359.8830 www.hetra.org Helping Hand 4 Animals Debbie David Tel. 402.556.6327 tmdavid666@msn.com

Sheltie Shack Rescue of Kansas Mark Rossignol, Volunteer Tel. 402.466.5596 or 402.617.4150 schiprescue-ne@therossignols.net www.sheltieshack.com

www.petfinder.com/shelters/NE23.html

New Beginnings Shih Tzu and Friends Rescue Jayne Samp - NE Coordinator irescuetzus@gmail.com www.nbstr.org

Hooves & Paws Rescue, Inc. 27821 US Hwy 34 Glenwood, IA 51534 info@hoovespaws.org http://hoovespaws.org

Heartland Weimaraner Rescue Heather Crossley, NE Coordinator Tel. 402.203.0668 neweimrsq@tconl.com heartlandweimrescue.org

Iggy Iguana Rescue and Bird Sanctuary, Inc. Stephanie Barclay, Director Tel. 660.707.5472 questions@iggysbirds.com www.iggysbirds.com K9 Kast-a-ways Dog Rescue and Adoption, Inc. 3323 - 250th Street Logan, IA 51546 Tel. 712.644.BARK (2275) k9kastaways@yahoo.com www.k9kastaways.petfinder.com

Midwest Wheaton Rescue Alma and Kent Knoll Tel. 402.850.9292 MidwestWheatenRescue@yahoo.com www.midwestwheatenrescue.org

Additional Rescues/ Animal Organizations

No Pets Left Behind Cari Smith Tel. 402.614.5718 carimcsmith@yahoo.com www.nopetsleftbehind.com www.petfinder.com/ shelters/NE70.html Pig Placement Network Omaha, NE Lisa Zentz Tel. 402.216.1583 zentz@usa.net www.pigplacementnetwork.com Rick’s Reptile Rescue Lincoln, NE Tel. 402.432.6878. rickeyclanton@hotmail.com Second Chance Pups PO Box 204 Beatrice, NE 68310 Tel. 402.806.1012 info@secondchancepups.com www.secondchancepups.com

Wildlife Rescue

RESCUE

Nebraska Poodle Rescue, Inc. Kate Hadenfeld PO Box 34375 Omaha, NE 68134 Tel. 402.943.6047

NOTICE

The individuals and groups listed have not been screened

by Pet Enthusiast Publications, Inc. Pet Enthusiast does not take responsibility for any issues that may arise. Every attempt has been made to list the organizations correctly. If you notice a correction needed, please email: editor@PE-magazine.com.

Keep checking PE-magazine.com for new updates to this list.

Nebraska Wildlife Rehab, Inc. PO Box 2412 Omaha, NE 68124 Tel. 402.341.8619 www.nebraskawildliferehab.org Wildlife Rescue Team, Inc. PO Box 80127 Lincoln, NE 68501 Tel. 402.473.1951 http://www.lincolnne.com/ nonprofit/wrt/

Little White Dog Rescue Omaha, NE littlewhitedogrescue@yahoo.com www.littlewhitedogrescue.org Midwest Cichlid Association Jeff Alderman www.midwestcichlid.com

Beak n Wings Bird Rescue Marilyn Tel. 402.493.5826 www.beaknwings.org

Midwest Dog Rescue Network Rose Strasser Tel. 402.212.9807 www.midwestdogrescuenetwork.com

Big Dogs Huge Paws, Inc. Lindsay Condon, CEO/President PO BOX 460699 Aurora, CO 80046 Tel. 303.322.4336 WeCare@BigDogsHugePaws.com www.BigDogsHugePaws.com

Nebraska Animal Rescue boxerrescuer@charter.net Nebraska Kennel Club www.nebraskakennelclub.com

Break Heart Ranch Horse Rescue John and Val Hinderlider 2141 “J” Rd Minden, NE 68959 Tel. 308.832.7212 breakheartranch@gtmc.net www.breakheartranch.com

Nebraska Parrot Rescue PO Box 1609 Bellevue, NE 68005-1609 Tel. 402.350.9923 roberta@nebraskaparrotrescue.org katy@nebraskaparrotrescue.org www.nebraskaparrotrescue.org

ADOPT

Consider adopting. There are many animals that need a forever home.

FOSTER HOMES, CASH DONATIONS, PET SUPPLIES NEEDED.

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Pet Classifieds

Nebraska - Iowa

CARPET CLEANING

DOG TRAINING

Barefoot Carpet Cleaning

Bonafide Dog Academy

Specializing in Homes with Pets 402.578.5094

CAT-ONLY BOARDING Feline Boutique and Country Club The Ultimate Boarding Experience Where We Pamper the Pampered 16909 Lakeside Hills Plaza - Omaha Tel. 402.614.5657 www.felinecountryclub.org Adoptions Available.

No Surrenders Please.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Group & Private Training Certified, Experienced Trainers Manners, Obedience, Dog Sports, Specialty Classes & More!

14840 Grover St. Omaha, NE www.bonafidedogacademy.com 402.250.9452

DOG WALKING/SITTING Woody’s Pet Watch, LLC

PET-FRIENDLY HOUSING

CEMETERIES & CREMATION Everyday Angels, LLC

ORGANIC LAWN CARE

DOG ACCESSORIES MazzyCo Handmade Collars

Holidays and every day, keep your furry friends in style with our unique collars, leashes, harnesses and more!

Tel. 402.672.5001 www.mazzyco.com

Logo Lites, Inc.

Illuminated Pet Collars and Leashes.

Finally, a product that ensures the safety of you and your pet when you walk during the dawn, dusk or dark. www.logoslites.com

Mona K. Photography

Unique. Hip. Fresh. Timeless Portraits.

402.681.7310 www.monakphotography.com

The Best Care…When You’re Not There!

Dog Walking, Pet Sitting, Pet Taxi Professional, Bonded, Insured, BBB Member 402.517.7291 www.woodyspetwatch.com

Pet Cremation Services - Small Animal Cremations - Horse (Large Animal) Cremations - Respectful Pick-Up Services -Urns, Gifts, and Jewelry -Caring, Personal Service Gretna, NE - 402.332.3786

The Dancing Dog Co.

Pet Photography - Graphic Design 402.404.0260 www.thedancingdogco.net

Northwest Feed & Grain and WashCo Feed & Supply

Old Mill Apartments

Super Pet Friendly, Great Location off 108th & Dodge. Prices from $475 per Month. No Size Restrictions for Dogs.

Call Tona 402.498.0800.

RENTING YOUR HOUSE?

Banfield Organic Fertilizer Animal Feed Sales, parts and service of HiQual and WW Livestock equipment 8625 Military Rd, Omaha, NE Tel. 402.571.0305 www.nwfandwfsfeed.com

List your property here!

PET LOSS Faithful Friends Animal Ministry

Omaha Friendly Services

Provides prayers and comfort for people and their loving animal companions.

Illness, loss, and memorial support.

Contact Chaplain Clarke at kmc53@windstream.net

Pet & People Friendly Fertilizer Enjoy a great looking lawn with all of your best friends!

Contact Paul: 402.677.9019 or omahafriendly@gmail.com

For more information on including a classified ad for your business, call 402.312.9395

Don’t worry. You can get your very own subscription to Pet Enthusiast magazine without missing an issue!

SUBSCRIBE $20.00/Year

Online: www.PE-magazine.com

By Mail: PO Box 540395 Omaha, NE 68154

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