September 2009
Therapy Dogs meeting the needs of children with cancer
How should I take
Page 22
care of my senior dog? page 8
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Contents Vol. 5 No. 11
Sections 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 12 13 14 15 18 20-21 23 28
Calendar of Events Cover Pet Bio Publisher’s Corner Featured Business: WestVet Animal Emergency K-9 Heroics - “Tugging Along” Ask a Vet - Senior Dogs Dog Wags Featured Book: Impurrfection! The Adventures of Pups Pastor Blackburn’s Memories The Heart of Adoption Featured Shelter Pet Petty Issues - “NILIF” Cooking with Tails Adopt me! pg. 18 Petty News in Review
Kids Korral
25 26 27
Did You Know? and Kids with Cool Pets From the Drawing Board Adventures of Dexter and Slinky
Directories 29 30 31
MarketBox Ads Business Listings Veterinaries Breeders Shelter & Rescue Listings
Articles and Information 11 16-17 18-19 22
What is AAHA? “TNR” Trap-Neuter-Release Therapy Dogs at Camp Rainbow Gold Shaving Your Arctic Dog
There are 8 little mice hidden in the magazine. Have fun trying to find them! Answers on page 31. To contact PFM by phone: (208) 286-7262 Mail: PO Box 129, Star, Idaho 83669
E-mail: contactpfm@petfriendlymagazine.com
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Web: www.petfriendlymagazine.com
September 2009
2009 Calendar of Events
September Events
September 4 Registration starts for See Spot Walk Sign up at these locations: Zamzows 9/4 – 9/30; Idaho Humane Society 9/4 – 10/3; Capitol City Farmer’s Market – Every Saturday; Frisbee Fest 9/18; Online at idahohumanesociety.org 9/4 – 10/2 noon
September 7 Labor Day Have a great day with your family and friends!
September 11 Patriot Day This day is designated in memory of the nearly three thousand who died in the September 11, 2001 attacks. On this day, the President directs that the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff and displayed from individual homes, at the White House, and on all U.S. government buildings and establishments, home and school. Also, a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 AM (EST) marking the first plane crash on 9/11/01.
purchase weekly grounds tickets to the 2009 Albertsons Boise Open at www. albertsonsboiseopen.com through the tickets link and select the Idaho Humane Society as the designated charity. You can also download a PDF form from that page and mail it in if you prefer. One hundred percent of the proceeds come directly to the shelter! Located at the Hillcrest Country Club in Boise.
September 22 4PM-8PM Non Profit Tuesday at Boise Fry Company 20% of all the sales during that time benefit SNIP (Spay Neuter Idaho Pets Inc) 111 Broadway, Suite 111 • Boise, ID 83702 • 208.495.3858 • SNIP’s mission is to provide low cost spay and neuter services for domestic dogs and cats, and feral cats of low income owners and feral cat caregivers, along with education. Its goal is to establish a high volume low cost spay and neuter clinic to reduce the euthanizing of healthy animals, for more information please visit: www.boisefrycompany.com or http://snipidaho.org/events.html
October Events
September 12-13 8AM Boise Agility Runners and Climbers (BARC)
October 3 See Spot Walk 2009 17th Annual Dog Walk & Festival
Come enjoy watching dogs of all breeds participate in the fastest growing dog sport in the world! USDAA sanctioned agility trial at the Expo Idaho 5610, Glenwood, Boise, ID 83714. Free admission and parking. No un-entered pets, please. For more information and directions, visit our website, www.boiseagility.org.
Idaho’s biggest and best dog event. Held in Julia Davis Park, the event includes food and retail vendors, contests, floats, costumes and cool prizes. After “parading” through the streets of downtown Boise, dogs and their people return to the park for more food, fun and festivities. Registration begins September 4th.
September 14-20 Albertsons’s Boise Open
October 10 Come see the adoption paws-ibilities at Escape the Crate’s first annual adoption event. Great furry activities, food, and fun! Pets adopted at the event will have
There is a way you can help the animals while enjoying a week of amazing and entertaining golf. Simply
their picture professionally taken and will be put into the 2010 calendar! Call Escape the Crate for more details. (208) 362-0882
Black Dog Walk (date to be determined) To raise awareness that black dogs are the usually the last, if at all, to be chosen for adoption. All walkers and black dogs welcome! Bring your black foster dogs! Free registration! For more information contact Spay Neuter Idaho Pets (SNIP); page 31.
Ongoing Events Chip and Dip Stop by Camp Bow Wow from 10:00AM until 2:00PM any Saturday through November 1st and receive a certificate for micro-chipping for $25 and your dog will get the dip for free. Bring your used household items or clothing to save $5 off your micro-chip and make a difference for the animals today! Located at 3430 South TK Ave, Boise, ID 83705. (208)331-5091
Foster Program Orientation Classes Classes are offered every Saturday from 12 noon until 1PM (unless noted) in the education room at the Idaho Humane Society. These classes are open to anyone interested in learning more about the Foster Program. Reservations are not required. For more information, call 3318557 or e-mail them at: fosterprogram@ idahohumanesociety.org
ADOPT ME!- Greyhound Rescue of Idaho Every 1st Saturday from 12 - 3pm, GRI is at the Nampa PETCO. Every 2nd Saturday from 12 - 3pm, GRI is at Northwest Pets in Eagle.
ADOPT ME!- Meridian Valley Shelter Every Saturday at H3 Pets in Meridian.
If your business has an event that you would like to be posted in our Event Calendar, just e-mail it to artwork@petfriendlymagazine.com. Be sure to include all the details! Bringing Pet Lovers Together!
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Cosmin Holhos-Vaida cosmin@petfriendlymagazine.com Assistant to the Editor Olivia Thomas Advertising SALES Barbara Hatch (208) 939-8885 barb@petfriendlymagazine.com Wm. Thomas Howie (208) 490-0052 tom@petfriendlymagazine.com ILLUSTRATIONS Jason C. Howie RADIO ADS Sue Ellen Montgomery sueellen@petfriendlymagazine.com ART & GRAPHIC DESIGN Kristy Holhos-Vaida artwork@petfriendlymagazine.com KID ADVISORS Esther, Hannah, Abigail & Josiah PET ADVISORY BOARD Lady Heidelberg, Sir Caspian, Princess Sheba PHONE 1-800-745-9163 or (208) 286-7262 TO SUBSCRIBE Subscription price at the time of this issue is $24.95 in U.S. and $27.95 in Canada including taxes for 12 issues shipped via US Mail. www.petfriendlymagazine.com PET FRIENDLY MAGAZINE is published 12 times a year by PET Friendly, LLC. This publication is distributed throughout the Greater Treasure Valley at select locations and via subscription. Reader comments are welcomed and we accept unsolicited articles and photographs. We reserve the right to edit or reject any or all material submitted. Please enclose a Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope if you need any materials returned. Address correspondence to: PET FRIENDLY MAGAZINE PO BOX 129, Star, Idaho 83669 E-mail: contactpfm@petfriendlymagazine.com ©2004 PET FRIENDLY, LLC All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the express written consent of the Publishers. We solicit advertising relevant to our readers. Pet Friendly Magazine reserves the right to refuse any advertising for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher. Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services herein. All contributors and advertisers assume responsibility and liability for the accuracy of their claims.
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over Pet Bio:
When Chloe was very young, Northwest Animal Companions rescued her and her siblings from a situation where they were being starved. Chloe was being fostered by my great friend Cheyenne Stamp and needed socialization. I offered to walk Chloe and quickly realized there was something very special about her. She was so eager to learn and just a pleasure to teach. Also, she loved to play frisbee and fetch. We decided to take Chloe home for a weekend to meet our other dog, Lucy, and the rulers of the house: OUR CATS. Everything went so well. Chloe fit right in. It was meant to be! She now comes to work with us every day at our shop, Boise Cycle. Chloe and Lucy are now inseparable. And Chloe is best friends with the cats. I wasn’t looking for another dog, but if I had been, I have to admit I wouldn’t have chosen a black dog. I completely lost sight of Chloe’s color and fell for her great personality. I have since learned that black dogs are the last to be adopted at shelters (as are black cats) and because of this, they are more often euthanized. I love Chloe so much and couldn’t imagine my life without my sweet black dog. A BIG thanks to everyone who voted for Chloe! ~Sue Davis Chloe’s photo was taken by the talented Gary Timson of Timson Studio Photography www.timsonstudio.com Two locations: Middleton (208) 585-2443 Meridian (208) 888-3057
THIS IS A
PUBLICATION! Don't Forget! Tell our advertisers that you saw their ad in Pet Friendly Magazine! September 2009
S
chool has started for many children with the exception of the home-school bunch. For these people school never ends. At least that’s the way it is with us. For us, school is an everyday and every hour opportunity to teach our children the important lessons of life on top of the theoretical subjects. It makes for lots of fun and interesting experiences. We like to have our children involved in pretty much every area of our life so that they can experience and learn important matters of life from the right perspective. We have three Great Danes and two of them, while only eleven months old, are taller than my three year old son Josiah. An important lesson that he had to learn is that he cannot be afraid of the animals. I had to teach him in a practical way, that we as humans have a mandate from our Creator to rule over the animal domain and treat them with regard. While we cannot be cruel in any way, shape or form towards our animals, we have to know how to keep them in control at all times. Caspian, my male Great Dane pup, got envious of my son and every time he would pass by him, he would push him over with his hips. Josiah begin to develop a state of fear towards the dogs. This had to be overcome immediately while appreciating Caspian’s presence around him as a protector. Cas-
pian had to learn that Josiah is his master; therefore, he would have to obey Josiah at all times and acknowledge his authority over him. It was a fun and very successful learning time for Josiah, Caspian and I in our garage. Josiah overcame his fear of big dogs learning to give firm commands and praise his dog for quick obedience, while Caspian learned to respect and submit to one of his masters. It was a valuable time that we all had together as family. I would not trade it for the world. Life is filled with priceless moments, which if we enter them in our life’s account they will count as treasures in eternity, but if we miss the opportunity before us, it will be gone forever. Respectfully Yours, Cosmin Holhos-Vaida, Publisher P.S. If you live in Ontario, OR then Ontario Animal Hospital is your place for all your pet care needs. Please pay them a visit when your pet needs a check up and say hello to Dr. Lindsay Norman from us.
Cut me out and send me in!
Bringing Pet Lovers Together!
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Featured Business WestVet Animal Emergency and Specialty Center WestVet Animal Emergency and Specialty Center is the first and only integrated emergency and specialty hospital in Idaho. With the main hospital location at 50th and Sawyer in Garden City and a satellite hospital in Meridian across from St. Lukes, WestVet has been recognized as one of the most progressive veterinary hospitals in the Northwest. The center offers overnight and weekend emergency services as well as Idaho’s only board-certified small animal specialists in surgery, internal medicine, cardiology, ophthalmology, feline behavior, physical therapy and animal dermatology. It is a center for orthopedic and soft tissue surgery, cancer treatment, and medical imaging using ultrasound, CT and MRI. In addition, WestVet is now developing the region’s only Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for pets headed by a board-certified critical care specialist.
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WestVet works in partnership with family veterinarians to provide a comprehensive care plan. A converted pet ambulance is sometimes used to safely transport ailing pets from area veterinary clinics to either WestVet facility. WestVet has recently launched a new website for pet owners and veterinarians. The website, www.westvet.net, contains answers to commonly asked questions. Information regarding various conditions may also be found on the website which will be updated frequently.
Jeff Brourman DVM, MS, DACVS
September2009 2009 September
K-9 Heroics “Tugging Along” By Rico the Begium Malinois
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t was a quiet night. Not too much had happened, and I’d been laying in the back area of my K9 cruiser, happily licking myself a little here and a little there. And then things changed. Randy grabbed the mic and said something. The next thing I knew, we were doing a traffic stop. Now, traffic stops are kind of fun, because I get to stand up and watch my master walk up to the car, and occasionally I even get to come out and sniff the car for drugs. But this stop was going to be different; I could just feel it. Randy went up to the car and in a calm voice, politely asked for the identification and some other information from the people in the car in front of us. Then he came back to our K9 cruiser. He quickly said something to someone on the radio, and got to typing on the computer that we use for communication and verification of information. I can’t read much human, but I did make out something about “Wanted person; caution – violent tendencies.” And then things got really exciting. All of a sudden, Randy bolted from the car, and I noticed that the man from the other car was running away from his car, too. I don’t think he wanted to talk to us. I tried to call out, “Send me! Send me!” but unfortunately, I can’t talk human. Then a most wonderful thing happened. Randy activated the door popper via his remote control, and with a light thump, my back door popped open. I ran straight to him and waited for the signal, with my heart pumping with adrenalin. I heard Randy yell “Stop, or I’ll send my dog!” Yes!! I love those words! That meant that I was about to get to play tug! I love to play tug and my jaws are very strong from playing lots and lots of tug! This man that Randy was talking to jumped a chain link fence and he fell down hard on the other side of it, but immediately got up and kept running. Randy was a little smarter and ran around the end of the fence, and into the alley where the man had gone. I was jogging along with Randy (for me it’s a jog, for him it’s running) when I finally got the command to go get the man. Now I started running. I ran ahead of Randy, not seeing who I was after at first. Randy sounded a little concerned at this point, but again, he reinforced the command to get the running man. I was emboldened and took off even faster. There he was, Bringing Pet Lovers Together!
a full block away now! I kicked it into high gear. I was in full sprint, flying across the pavement. When I got up to the man, I launched off the ground and grabbed him high on his left arm. He quickly fell down to the ground. Randy wasn’t here yet, so I held him tight and went into four paw reverse. I spun the man around in a circle on the ground! It was so much fun for me, but I don’t think the man enjoyed it quite as much. Finally (it seemed like an hour later), Randy arrived and called out some things to the man, and told me to let go. I obeyed immediately, and came back and sat by Randy. I was so excited that I wanted to go do it again!! I slowly began to relax as I listened to Randy’s voice speak calmly to the man, then handcuffed him. Not too much later, the medics arrived on the scene and picked up the running man, who was not running anymore. Other officers arrived as well, and I got to enjoy the usual “Good boy, Rico!” For Randy it was a job well done, but to me, it’s just a game of tug. Rico is a Belgian Malinois who worked for the Boise Police Department from June 2000 until June 2008. He was handled by Officer Randy Arthur, a veteran of 23 years of law enforcement service. Rico was Officer Arthur’s 2nd dog as a handler for the Boise Police Department. Officer Randy Arthur now handles another Belgian Malinois named Vigo.
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Question:
Is my pet a senior? How can I help improve my pet’s quality of life?
J
ake has been a great dog for you over the years. That 8 year old yellow lab has done everything with you. He hasn’t skipped a beat that you can tell. Suddenly, one afternoon he looks pale and can’t get up! You rush him to the veterinarian and find that he has a tumor in the spleen that is hemorrhaging. He is going to need surgery. His chest x-rays, thankfully, look good. No obvious tumor metastasis has occurred. You may ask yourself, “Could I have prevented this?” The answer is possibly yes. So what qualifies my pet as a senior? Generally, cats and dogs over 7 years of age are considered to be senior citizens. These pets are similar to a sixty, seventy, or eighty year old person. They are simply more prone to severe liver and kidney issues, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, etc. than are younger animals. Therefore, veterinarians generally will advise owners to do preventative testing to enhance their ability to detect problems as our pet’s age. I know my parents go through all sorts of preventative screening tests on a consistent basis as a way to hopefully catch and prevent diseases. The same logic applies to our pets. Regular annual or biannual exams are very important on even very healthy appearing pets. Consistent blood and urine tests and x-rays are paramount to maintaining a healthy older pet. If you wait until they can’t get up and are
E-mail your questions to Dr. Warner at contactpfm@petfriendlymagazine.com. 88
vomiting with diarrhea, you are often too late. I am amazed the number of things we find on routine senior screening tests. Remember, prevention is the key. Furthermore, costs of prevention are generally much less than are costs of treating an extremely sick animal. Remember, we aren’t just focusing on the big “gloom and doom” diseases. Addressing common ailments such as arthritis, dental disease, and obesity can really make a difference in your senior pet’s life. For example, we have several treatment options for arthritis in our pets such as NSAIDS, diets, therapy lasers, and Adequan injections. Maybe your arthritic dog will do much better after losing twenty pounds with a simple weight loss diet. Perhaps, your depressed dog starts skipping across the yard after having a few bad teeth extracted. I have had several clients happily call me to say their pet is like a puppy after having necessary dental work. Maybe, we can increase the quality of your pet’s life with a better diet and some supplements. Often times, a lot of good can be done without a lot of expense. Pet owners can do quite a bit at home to help too. Try to do weekly exams yourself. Check for growths, bad breath, lethargy, coughing, excessive panting, etc. Watch your pet closely as they age. Are they drinking and urinating more than normal? This could be a sign of diabetes mellitus or kidney disease for example. How is their weight? Be cognizant of their weight as weight loss is one of the first signs of a sick pet. Changes in behavior are important too. Does your dog only chew on one side of his mouth? Maybe he has an infected tooth. Does your dog bump into things? Perhaps, she has cataracts and diabetes. Does your dog refuse to get up to go inside from the backyard? Maybe he is severely arthritic, is weak from a liver problem, or has an internal bleeding tumor. I think you can start to see the value in this detection process. Help us help you by being observant of your pets. Hopefully together, we can minimize costly medicine and surgery and can keep your pets happy and healthy to a ripe old age. Contact us at All Pet Complex for a senior exam and don’t forget to bring along the coupon next to this article for $25 dollars off senior bloodwork and urine tests.
Tim Warner, DVM All Pet Complex in Eagle, Idaho (208) 853-1000 September September 2009 2009
Hitting the Trails...
There are good reports from the trail! Foothills Advocates for Shared Trails (FAST) mentioned experiencing a shift in behavior, and the ranger reports corroborate that, especially regarding dog owners. Owners are following leash laws and have better control over dogs in off leash areas. Thanks so much to all of you! We do have some clean up opportunities. Corrals (especially from the Bogus Turn Out) could use some help and the lower trails are getting pounded - as is typical this time of year. We'll have another organized poop scoop in September. Contact Marianne at (208) 866-6306 Clean tails make happy trails!
Bringing Pet Lovers Together!
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Dog Wags
Heart moving, real life changing dog tales By Tracy Lado
Tunkha and Tracy, also known as “TnT”
F
or those of you who met Tunkha and I in August’s issue, please enjoy Episode II of Tunkha’s Chronicles, which shares some of our funnier adventures as a service dog team:
There are so many stories to share about Tunkha, so many that most people wouldn’t even believe me if I shared them. Most people assume since he is a service dog, he is a well mannered machine all the time. I’m not sure why people think that service dogs can’t be fun, but that is the opinion it seems most people have. Well, they are shocked when the meet Tunkha!! I should’ve had a clue when I got to Team Training and many of the people from CPL had stories of Tunkha…but, I loved that sweet boy from the minute I met him! Now, don’t get me wrong, Tunkha is not any different from any other dog, he just does things with his own flair! He was the one with boundless energy and always seemed to let out a groan at the most perfect time during our lessons. When I first got home with Tunkha, I had to head off to Johns Hopkins for some treatments. A lady walked up to my husband and told him she was so jealous of me. Now, mind you, I was bald, had lost several pounds of weight and sitting at the hospital, so he asked her why. Her response was surprising, “Even though she is blind, she does her make-up better than I do!!!” So, that was the beginning of the funny “blind lady” stories. Everyone assumes I’m blind when I’m not. I have a mobility impairment and Tunkha helps me keep my balance when I’m walking! Tunkha and I won the hearts of many, many people. Also at Hopkins we were able to do a demo for the ALS Clinic, and they now regularly prescribe service dogs for their patients. At the hospitals, I’ll get people randomly grabbing my elbow, and speaking very LOUDLY at me to help me get where I need to go! “One more step to the elevator, then three steps to the back….” Tunkha just strides along with me peacefully. It just makes me laugh! I can’t understand why the world assumes I am blind just because I have a dog with me; I am very good at eye contact!! 10 10
So, another time I went to the movies and the young man selling me the ticket kept looking back and forth between Tunkha and I. He finally said, “Is he going to make much noise?” At first I didn’t know who he was talking about. I then realized he was talking about Tunkha, I quickly responded, “Only if he is displeased with the movie!” We then got into the movie theater and sat down. I heard from a few rows behind me, in the best New Jersey accent, “Oh my! I didn’t know they made movies in brail!!!” Are you kidding me??? Even IF I was blind, I surely could hear the movie. So, at the end of it all, I told her I really liked her pink sandals! I’m sure you could imagine her look! When I moved to NC, I pulled up to look at a house to rent, met the neighbor and a year later she told me her thoughts when she first met me. She said she was thinking, “Wow! That is an amazing dog because it can help her drive!!” Then, I was in a parking lot and I heard someone yell, “Someone, please help that blind girl.” So I tossed Tunkha in the back of the car to go help the blind girl. I’m a nurse so I thought I would be able to help her. Well, four grown men showed up to my car….hmm… I was the blind girl that needed help! Tunkha is now 5 years old, and you’d think he’d have settled down, but nope! He is still full of energy, boundless energy. He does everything with spunk and zeal! He amazes me every day. He has won the hearts of non-animal lovers all over, as well as his vet. She kisses his snout every visit and says, “Every Lab should look like you!” It’s sort of funny, as he stands 30 inches at the shoulder and weighs 92 pounds, he scares many people at first sight when we are out and about just by his sheer size. They quickly realize what a lover he is as soon as they look into his sweet brown eyes. I had some house guests one time. One of the guests had never had a pet in her life and really didn’t take to dogs at all. I came down from my shower, and she told me she and Tunkha bonded. “He sat here with his head on my lap for the whole time you were in the shower.” She was rubbing his ears. I had to clue her in that that is his way of asking to get on the couch to snuggle with her!!! Poor T-Man looked up at me saying, “Oh sure, you left me with the only one who can’t understand my language!!” Needless to say, she now wants to get a dog just like Tunkha… HA!! If she only knew! Well, I could ramble on forever…so many Tunkha stories! We are going to the hospital frequently now for my chemotherapy again, and boy what joy he brings to the other cancer patients!! He is such a free spirit, I’m sure he’d love to walk around the room and lay his sweet monster head on everyone’s lap!! September 2009 2009 September
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What is AAHA?
recently had an client call from another state, where they were vacationing, asking for a referral to a veterinary hospital after their dog had become sick. I didn’t know any of the veterinarians in that town personally, but I was confident referring her to another AAHA certified veterinary hospital. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) was founded in 1933, it is an organization that provides accreditation for veterinary practices throughout the United States and Canada. Accreditation is voluntary for hospitals that have chosen to be committed to excellence in small animal care, it requires on site evaluations at least every three years. Accreditation covers 46 mandatory standards and addresses about 900 other standards of care, involving all aspects of care within the veterinary hospital. Currently, there are approximately 15% of small animal practices accredited throughout the United States. AAHA is also committed to providing ongoing continuing education seminars to help doctors, technicians and other staff
Bringing Pet Lovers Together!
provide the highest standards of care. Although meeting the AAHA standards is a time consuming and lengthy process, it is a commitment that the Meridian Veterinary Hospital has made to ensure that we continue offering the highest quality of medicine and surgery available. That is why I have confidence in referring my clients to other AAHA certified hospitals, because I know they are committed to the same level of care that we try to offer to our clients. We have been an accredited hospital since 1982, and just completed our most recent accreditation evaluation this year in July. If you have any further questions about AAHA, feel free to contact any of our team members at Meridian Veterinary Hospital or look online at www.healthypet.com. You can also use this website to research other accredited veterinary hospitals, while you are traveling, in case you find yourself in need of veterinary care while vacationing. By Dr. Higer, DVM Meridian Veterinary Hospital
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Featured Book: By Jack W. Reidenbach
"Impurrfection" A Cat’s Life on the Streets
The story is true, the characters are real and the events factual. However, the thoughts and responses that are offered by the main character are the product of the author’s imagination. The story has been simplistically written to enlighten both young and old adults of the consequences that face abandoned animals. It has been designed to provide an understanding and awareness of what happens when human responsibility and compassion are replaced by the coldness of irresponsibility.
Time continued to pass and now I was totally on my own. As I was out looking for food one day, I met this real nice older cat who told me her name was Carrie. She said she was dumped off on the side of the road by her human family because they didn’t want her anymore. (nice people, huh?) She told me that there were a lot of places to hide around the outside of the big office building down the street. It even had a big puddle of water (a lake), so we could always have something to drink. She was living there, and she told me a lot more cats that had been dumped off by their families were also calling that place home. There were even people there who would sometimes leave food out for all the cats. Well, there was nothing left for me here, so I decided to follow Carrie down the street. Maybe I could find a little place of my own, and even make some new friends. But I also intended to follow mom’s advice, and that was to always be very, very cautious. Did I ever mention to you that she was a great mom? When Carrie and I arrived at the office building, she introduced me to a couple of her friends, Goldie and Celine, who were also older than me. They took me all around the outside of the building and showed me a bunch of different places I might want to call home. Even though it was a nice place with lots of trees and bushes, Celine did tell me that there were quite a few dogs and raccoons that came by all the time to check out the garbage cans, so we had to be careful. Although there were a few cats that liked to keep to themselves, most of the cats in the area were very nice. Everyone seemed to know that they had to stick together if they were going to survive. Goldie told me that most of the people who were always around the building didn’t pay much attention to us. But there were a few people who were nice enough to leave food for us once in a while. The only problem was that there was not always enough for everyone, so you had to keep an eye out for them every day. I decided that this was the place I would call home. I found myself a little area that was underneath the receiving dock (that’s where the big trucks come in during the day to deliver packages) where I would be safe at night. Then, during the day, I thought I would just hang out with the other girls, playing in the bushes, climbing up and 12 12
down the trees, running around the park cars, or maybe even laying in the sun over on the grass. I soon found out that I really couldn’t play around as much as I would have liked. During the day there were always people doing things around the building. Then, at night, I had to always
istock.com
CHAPTER TWO - THE BIG MOVE
be on the lookout for dogs and raccoons. I realized that surviving left no time for anything else. It was safer to search for food and water at night. Eating was a combination of whatever I could find in the garbage with whatever food the building people would leave. Depending upon how fast I was feeling, there was also the occasional mouse, bird or lizard. The lake offered plenty of water, but that, too was safer to get to at night. For Carrie, Goldie, Celine and I, staying safe and surviving on what was available took the place of any real fun, but we stayed together and kept very cautious and alert of everything around us. But then, things began to change.... continued next month...
AUTHOR BIO: For the past ten years, Jack has been involved with several animal rescue organization and is proud to have been a part of saving numerous abandoned animals. Contact Jack at jwr407@bellsouth.net. September 2009
PUPS in w.v.
Follow Pups’ travels on www.pupsthetravelinglabrador.com
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n West Virginia - Pups has been having a lot of fun on the farm! He was an early riser one day and watched a beautiful sunrise with me. We also saw a deer in our yard that day, and Pups couldn’t believe his eyes! He met our horses and went for a little ride. But so far he's had the most fun playing with our labs. We have six of them; most of them want to play a little too rough! Sunny and Bear showed him how to retrieve in the water, which they just LOVE to do, especially on a hot day! We planned a trip into town to do a little shopping, but Pups couldn’t wait to get back to the farm because he knew he was going to do a little tractor driving and hole digging with the backhoe. I think Pups really liked the farm life!
Bringing Pet Lovers Together!
Bill & Janet of Whispering Pines Farm, W.V. 13
! t i e v o l I e c n e d n e Co-Dep m Blackbu
o by Pastor T
rn
at .” I admit th p ra d a b “ a e endenc ut like r gave co-dep ds” can be a bad thing, b perao ss fe ro p y g n o lo ie ig press.” Co perollege psycho or “mooching off your fr b c “ y n m o t ti a ra th e p lt ive co-o dy for a lcohol, always fe on drugs or a s a flip side. We always g instance, it’s really unhan e need for e c n e d n e p e e th co-d For ce ha advantage.” e acknowledg co-dependen most things, ether jointly for a greater ence simply means that w g tog epend he was tion: “workin th ends of a couch! Co-d ve pets while od, waa h e h id d r o o b ided fo farm, n son to carry grow up on a to provide for her. I prov ence, because ’t n id d . r n o o ti ss ra fe e d coope pended on m y college pro and co-depen Obviously, m Queen, was a pet. She de me with friendship, joy, t after those that got out e” wen provided My dog, growing up. ining, and security. She cows to bring them in. “W e tra buildter, vet care, rkers. “We” went after th day, we were my e n O . e c n e d o all for o-depen we were co-w rought back. nowledging c . I was only eleven and sm n’t ask me k c a f b o e e b c n to a e import and had ther pole dy would d taught me th s. Dad sent me after ano problem! I knew my dad ot! I tried to pick a d y M w a e it my best sh ed that I had rral for the co ing a large co sized up that pole, I realiz do. So it was time to giv even drag it! I n’t uld age, so when g that he didn’t think I co ed up one end, but could in ick to do someth dle. I tried rolling it. I p id m e thing.” it up in th can’t get this I . se a little a le p , lp e he ou just need m y , so n d a e c e u n o I y , two y “Dadd nd said, “Sure ) and then moving about the a , e c fa is h n big grin o leased me the hole in y way with a f the pole (which really p ulder, and started toward m d e rt a st e H end o is sho ped to the big , picked it up, laid it on h p e st e H .” lp he iddle e way. way to the m I got out of th !” d rl o thirds of the w e th rew man in ground. He th ded , the strongest e fence. d a th d n y o m g s in t’ g a you nee was drag “Wow! Th my little end said, “I thought you said it was t a th d e z li a steps and re angry, but is hips, and k about three me, put both hands on h My daddy’s voice wasn’t o to e H ed etting bigger. e ground, fac the pole on th could tell my eyes were g I some help!” ! c ifi end!” very spec pick up your u o y if is u o er and y I can help y e marched ov e said, a w w d n ly a n , o d e n e th “Well, oulder, h f the little d up the tip o Then, patting me on the sh e k ic p I d n a his end again its perfect!” He picked up ce. “There,” Dad said, “F the fen help!” put the pole in needed a little st ju u o Y . ood it and a really g own you could do t st a e d th in u k o y e th ld sun go d “See, I to d, but also n in the worl bale of straw to watch the d the chicka m st e g n ro I also fe sat on a only the st ddy was not getting the chores done, I nce with a little help, but con and eggs, milk, a d y M a fe r a pole in the evening, afte on them for b t, but teacher! That out the day. I not only put on me. I also depended , and I like that, to a poin d b e ss and to think a ows, because they depend e an independent little cu greater advantage.” “ c m e s d n th ll a a r c s ens, pig y big brother ally do need each other fo M . se e e h c d it, we re butter, an right down to ! e m o c e w n e wh ve it pendent. I lo Whoa, co-de
I
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September2009 2009 September
The E
veryone’s beginning is different when it comes to fostering animals. For this couple it came through the television series “The Dog Whisperer.” As Phillip Smith was watching this show four years ago, it triggered his heart strings. Just listening to the statistics of how many dogs are needlessly put down or how many dog are labeled as “aggressive” just to put them down to make more room in the shelters was enough to make Phillip step into action. So he recruited his wife, Sharleen, to help with this huge undertaking – fostering English Springers. Because Phillip’s job takes him out of town quite often, Sharleen stepped in full time to help shelter these “misfits” of society. Although Sharleen stays busy with her job and now is undertaking studies for becoming a Certified Nurse’s Assistant, she always finds time in her busy schedule to love, administer meds, and find homes for these English Springers. Sharleen works for Best Home Health out of Nampa, Idaho in order to provide the dogs with the special diet food that they need. As I was talking with Sharleen, I came across an amazing fact that is very hard to believe, but is very true. In July alone, thirty English Springers were found and taken in by various foster homes in order to save them from euthanasia. An alarming 90% of them are neglected, abused and malnourished when they arrive at the shelter. The By Kristy Holhos-Vaida
Bringing Lovers Together! Bringing PetPet Lovers Together!
of Adoption
unfortunate and sad thing is that it’s quite difficult to place these types of dogs in permanent homes in Treasure Valley. Most of them end up being adopted by people in surrounding states. It made me wonder “why?” Why it is that folks in Treasure Valley are not interested in English Springers? We may never know the answer. Just eight months ago, a dog named Alfalfa was picked up off the streets of Caldwell; he was so weak he could barely walk. From the looks of things, Alfie was in a small kennel with no room to move except from one hip to the other which caused him great pain. Once rescued, the vet started at once to help this poor, underweight fellow on his way back to recovery. To make a long story short, Alfie had over thousands of dollars worth of vet bills, ranging from hip surgery, shots and medication. He was fortunate enough to end up in Sharleen’s haven for English Springers. She has been a faithful friend to Alfie, saving his life several times. Because Alfalfa has so many complications, he has been a hard one to find a home for. It’s been eight months and no offers. It would take just the right kind of folks to love and care for him. Yet again, Sharleen has come to Alfie’s rescue by giving him that forever home he needs. She decided that after all they went through with him, that they were the best family for him. Alfie found his forever home! What a heart for adoption Sharleen has! If you think that you would like to open your home to an English Springer, you can contact Sharleen Smith at (208) 890-3810 for more information. 15
“TNR” Trap-Neuter-Release
F
eral cats—nearly every college campus, river, canal bank, rural areas, downtown and trail parks have them. They hide in the bushes, under trailers, anywhere they can safely get away from feared human beings. Free-roaming cats are in a category that includes strays and feral felines as well as owned cats allowed to go outside. They are often hit by cars or fall victim to disease, starvation, poisons, attacks by other animals, or mistreatment by humans. An approach known as trap-neuter-return (TNR) involves humanely trapping feral cats, having them spayed/neutered and then returning them to their original territory where a caretaker provides regular food, water, shelter and monitoring. Cats who have been through the TNR process are “ear-tipped” (about 3/8th of the tip of their left ear is clipped while the cat is under anesthesia) so the cat can easily be identified as being part of a managed colony. Although there are no clear statistics on the numbers of feral cats in the United States, estimates range from 10-90 million. These cats are the offspring of once owned cats who were lost or abandoned. They tend to be un-socialized, live in a colony or group of similar cats and shy away from people depending on how many generations they are removed from regular human contact. Many Good Samaritans feed, water and provide shelter for feral cats, but these people may not realize they can also help by humanely reducing the numbers of rapidly multiplying cats by TNR practices. “These animals exist through no fault of their own, and they need our help. There are a large number of cats affected and, without human intervention, their numbers will only increase,” says Nancy Peterson, feral cat program manager for The HSUS. Feral cats are not socialized to humans. They are considered wild by some, like a bird or squirrel. They cannot be held or live in your home like a pet. They were either born outside and never lived with humans or they were companion cats who have strayed from home and over time have become un-socialized to humans. Feral cats should not be taken to animal control pounds and shelters, as they are not adoptable and will be euthanized. Feral cats’ needs are not met by the current animal control and shelter system. Feral cats live outside, but are killed in shelters. Even no-kill shelters are not able to place feral cats in homes. Feral kittens can often be adopted into homes, but they must be socialized at an early age. This is a critical window, and if they aren’t handled in time, they will remain feral and therefore are not adoptable. 16
Feral cats can have the same lifespan as companion cats and they are just as healthy, too. The incidence of disease in feral cats is just as low as in companion cats. They live healthy, natural lives on their own, content in their outdoor home. Humans are the cause of wildlife depletion. Studies show that the overwhelming cause of wildlife depletion is destruction of natural habitat due to man-made structures, chemical pollution, pesticides, and drought — not feral cats. “Catch and kill” doesn’t work. It is an endless, cruel cycle and is extremely costly to taxpayers. Cats choose to reside in locations for a reason: there is a food source (intended or not) and shelter. When cats are removed from a location, survivors breed to capacity or new cats move in. This “vacuum effect” is well documented worldwide. The fact is, “trap-and-remove” doesn’t work either. “Trap-and-remove” is a euphemism for capturing and killing feral cats, which is Animal Control’s traditional approach to feral cats. “Trap-and-remove” attempts may temporarily reduce the number of feral cats in a given area, but two things happen: one, un-sterilized survivors continue to breed prolifically and, two, other cats move into the now-available territory. And once again, you have the vacuum effect. When the cats are removed from this environment, other cats move in to take advantage of whatever sources of food and shelter are available and continue to breed. If you stop feeding feral cats, they won’t simply go away. A feeding ban will not make the cats go away and is, in any case, arbitrarily enforced. Why? Cats bond to their territory and are opportunistic scavengers that can, if necessary, survive on garbage. Under a feeding ban, the cats suffer as they search for new sources of food.
Trap-Neuter-Return does work! No more kittens! Their numbers gradually go down and their lives are improved. The behaviors and stresses associated with mating, such as yowling or fighting, stop. This program creates a safety net for both the cats and the community. continued on next page...
September 2009
A man is ethical only when life, as such, is sacred to him, that of plants and animals as that of his fellow men, and when he devotes himself helpfully to all life that is in need of help. - Albert Schweitzer The solution is simple. Here’s how it works. Colony cats are humanely trapped, sterilized and returned to their colony. Strays and young kittens are removed from the colony and adopted into homes. Adult feral cats are ear-tipped for identification and returned to their outdoor homes where their numbers gradually go down through attrition. TNR breaks the cycle of reproduction and lowers cat populations. TNR is cost effective. TNR, which enlists community volunteers in a comprehensive program, costs one-third to one-half as much as trap-and-remove efforts. Why? The trap-and-remove endeavors that require continuous trapping and killing, is not supported by the community, and is an unending budget expense. You can make a difference and save lives!
Together, we can help people understand how effective the humane solution, TNR, can be. ~ by Diane Ayres
Photos courtesy of www.SNIP.org The cats pictured are from the Boise area.
Bringing Pet Lovers Together!
17
Therapy Dogs at Camp Rainbow By Rene Kaiser-Riley
For twenty-five years, on the first Sunday of August, Ketchum, ID has been the destination for 85 extra special kids from across our state. They are children, ages 6 to 17, who have or have had cancer. They’re headed to 6 days of fun called Camp Rainbow Gold. The camp is administered by the American Cancer Society and was one of the first oncology camps in the nation. There is no cost to the children or their families. The estimated cost of each camper is $1,200 which is covered by donations and sponsorship. The first day of camp gets off to a loud, rumbling start. For the past 8 years, motorcycle enthusiasts have gathered and escorted 2 chartered buses full of campers through town to the Cathedral Pines campground. Many of the campers will tell you that you can’t shake a stick at the second day either. There’s a doggone good chance the stick would be taken and chewed. On August 3, 2009, registered therapy dogs and their human handlers (called a team), returned to camp for their third year. In 2006, a dog from Ketchum and one named Summer Mae from Meridian, were the first dogs allowed at camp. Sadly, in 2007, dogs were unable to attend. 2008 saw the pack grow to 8 teams. This year, the special campers benefited from the happy faces and wagging tails of 10 teams, representing 8 breeds from 7 Idaho towns. Many of the campers “Summer Mae” have encountered the love and comfort of these same dogs in less than cheerful circumstances, while hospitalized for the treatments for, or affects of, their cancer. Attending camp gives these friends a chance to interact in a place of joy. The handlers share many stories of a camper recognizing a dog from a hospital stay, or the opposite, as a hospitalized child remembered a dog from camp. Either way it is always a joyful meeting of old friends.
F
eatured Shelter Pet
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My name is Goldy! I was named for my beautiful, wavy, golden hair. I am a mix of terrier and something wonderful, and have a nice beard to prove it. About 4 years ago, when I was only six months old, I lived on the streets in a neighborhood. I found my dinner in trashes, and shelter underneath shrubs. I learned how to survive on my own. That was before I was rescued by volunteers at Northwest Animal Companions. I was taken to a foster home, and lived there with another dog and kitties. I started to learn how to trust people, even though sometimes I have to check them out for a while first.
But I love the people that are closest to me, that I know well. I love going for walks, or running in an open field, and I could have my belly rubbed for hours. I went to a training class, and decided I loved to learn! I’d someday love to graduate with a degree in higher education–I know I’m capable of it. I’m very smart, and like to keep myself busy by chewing on bones, playing with treat balls, sniffing, or romping around with the cats I live with now. But I don’t like to be left alone all day. I get bored, and like a lot of attention. I’m still a little shy and scared in new places, or around new people and pets. It’s time for me to find a permanent home. I really need someone who wants to spend time helping me gain confidence, and who wants a best friend. I have so much love and affection to give to that special person. I do have a lot of energy, and I’m a fairly big girl (about 70 lbs.) and might be too much for very young children, and I do like most other dogs, (as long as I feel safe when we’re introduced, and as long as they don’t try to eat my food). So, if you’re interested in meeting me, please call my foster mom, Nina, at 407-1661. With a little polishing, I can show you my bright, unique self! September 2009
Bare of any of their normal hospital shirts or ID tags, the teams are just regular people and dogs this day, who happen to be quietly administering some of the strongest medicine available. Extensive medical studies have proven that a visit from a therapy dog reduces anxiety levels, heart and lung pressures, heart rates, decreases need for pain medication and increases chemicals in the body that elevate the recipient’s mood. These effects result in faster healing and have been shown to remain for several weeks after a doggie visit. However, camp is about fun and forgetting for a while. So, on the fun side, the teams wandered the camp interacting with campers and counselors. Besides the dogs’ normal job of being fun to pet, hug and hang out with; they encouraged kids in games, admired campers getting “gussied up” for the annual dance and participated in arts and crafts. They really got into the spirit when they let some of the campers paint their toenails. One dog showed his true colors by getting his head sprayed with red and yellow stripes. Now that they were feeling a little silly, they got into the huge supply of costumes and had their pictures taken. The campers had a great time helping to choose goofy hats and outfits for the very tolerant, four legged models. The teams are planning a doggie fashion show for next year. When the crew was dog tired, they said their sad good-byes to Camp Rainbow Gold. They left with great memories and a lot of purchased camp memorabilia to support the cause! The dogs left countless paw prints on the hearts of the campers, counselors and volunteers.
w Gold
Each dog comes with their own unique personality and experiences as a therapy dog. This year’s teams were: • Kate, a gentle and loving Black Lab from Ketchum, with mom Laurel, 2nd year at camp. • Luath, (Loo uh) the happy-go-lucky and tender Golden Retriever from Boise, with mom Jennifer, 2nd year at camp. • Lucky, a loving and distinguished Portuguese Water Dog who doesn’t like water, from Boise, with mom Karen, 1st year at camp. • Macy, the ‘fashionista’ who always has pink toenails, a Weimaraner from Boise, with mom Allison, 2nd year at camp. • Mango, the outgoing and warm-hearted Australian Shepherd from Eagle, with mom Mary-Pat, 1st year at camp. • Missy, an ever happy and loving Black Lab from Sun Valley, with mom Linda, 2nd year at camp. • Rocky, the energetic and tender Golden Retriever from Boise and Stanley, with mom Wendy, 2nd year at camp. • Summer Mae, a goofy, tender-hearted Yellow Lab & Basset Hound mix from Meridian, with mom René, 3rd year at camp. • Stanley, an enthusiastic, love-bug Cockapoo from Caldwell, with mom Barbara, 1st year at camp. • Yogi, the big teddy bear Rottweiler from Mountain Home, with mom Jeannie, 1st year at camp.
“Yogi”
“Stanley”
“Kate”
“Luath”
More information and pictures of Therapy Dogs are on page 30. To make a donation, please go to www.camprainbowgold.org. Bringing Pet Lovers Together!
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Petty Issues
Behavioral advice with Renee Cawley Question: My dog her name is Lassie. She doesn't obey me when we go for walks, like she always wants to go ahead of me. And when we are inside she NEVER stays with me unless I have a leash on her. And she also will snap at me, in a way. I don't know if she's angry that she has a flea or tick biting her or that she is mad at me. Do you have a sheet of suggestions on training your dog to do tricks? Oh and when we go outside I can never keep her off a leash she always runs to the neighbor’s door. And when we go on walks I can just barely hold the leash because she never heals!!!!!! And when she cuts in front of me and I accidentally step on her should I say "heal" or "oh I am so sorry!" But she is a sweet dog most of the time. Oh and I like that saying you have on the magazine that says you can always teach an old dog a new trick. I hate it when people say “you can never teach an old dog a new trick!!!" Thank you so much!!!!!!!!!
Answer: When you’re frustrated with your dog’s behavior, remember that it is up to you to teach your dog what is acceptable behavior and what is not. A dog that has not been given any instructions, training or boundaries can’t possibly know what you expect of her. What seems like disobedience to you is actually just Lassie trying to figure out what you want from her. By teaching Lassie how you want her to behave, you’ll not only have an obedient dog, but a healthier and happier dog as well. My first suggestion is to begin working on basic obedience with Lassie immediately. Get her into a group class, hire a private dog trainer or even find a good book on the subject and start training her yourself. If Lassie knows “Heel,” she won’t pull. If she knows “Sit and Stay,” she won’t run to your neighbor’s house. If she knows “Come,” even if she does wander off, she’ll come right back when called. I am concerned about Lassie snapping at you, because there is never an appropriate time for a dog to snap at a person. While you should always rule out medical conditions at the first sign of unusual aggression, fleas or ticks alone would cause her to scratch herself, not snap. If she is not ill or injured, I would be interested in knowing what you are doing the times that she snaps. Usually, this is the dogs’ way of saying “Leave me alone” or “I don’t want to do that,” but again, a well trained, healthy dog who knows her position in the house should never snap. 20
What this says to me is that basic obedience needs to be the top priority right now, for both you and Lassie. She must see you and every other person in your house as the leaders. Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League and promoted by the Humane Society of the United States, one of my favorite techniques is called Nothing In Life Is Free or NILIF. How to Practice "Nothing In Life Is Free" • Use positive reinforcement methods to teach your dog a few basic commands and/or tricks. "Sit," "Down," and "Stay" are useful commands. "Shake," "Speak," and "Roll over" are fun tricks to teach your dog. • Once your dog has mastered a few commands, you can begin to practice "Nothing In Life Is Free." Before you give your dog anything (food, a treat, a walk, a pat on the head) she must first perform one of the commands she has learned.
YOU:
LASSIE:
Put Lassie’s leash on to go for a walk
Must sit until you’ve put the leash on
Feed Lassie
Must lie down and stay until you’ve put the bowl down
Play a game of fetch
Must sit and “shake hands” each time you throw the toy
Rub Lassie’s belly over while watching TV
Must lie down and roll before being petted
• Once you've given the command, don't give your dog what she wants until she does what you want. If she refuses to perform the command, walk away, come back a few minutes later and start again. If Lassie refuses to obey the command, be patient and remember that eventually she will have to obey your command, be patient and remember that eventually she will have to obey your command to get what he wants. • Make sure Lassie knows the command well and understands what you want before you begin practicing “Nothing In Life Is Free.” September 2009
The Benefits • Most dogs assume a neutral or submissive role toward people, but some dogs will challenge their owners for dominance. Requiring a dominant dog to work for everything she wants is a safe, non-confrontational way to establish control. • Dogs who may never display aggressive behavior such as growling, snarling, or snapping may still manage to manipulate you. These dogs may display affectionate behavior that borders on being “pushy,” such as nudging your hand to be petted or “worming” their way onto the furniture to be close to you. NILIF gently reminds Lassie that she must obey your rules. • Fearful dogs can become more confident by obeying commands. Having a strong leader and knowing her place in the hierarchy helps to make Lassie feel more secure. Practicing “NILIF” gently and effectively communicates to Lassie that her position in the pack is subordinate to yours. In most communities, using a leash is mandated by law. Using a leash properly allows us a safe and effective connection to our dogs in case of surprises, emergencies, or situations where attention is hard to get or keep. The following is a technique specific to leash pulling that you can work on at the same time as practicing NILIF: • Using NILIF, have Lassie “Sit” while putting on her leash. • Once Lassie is sitting beside you, begin to walk, holding the leash loosely. • Stop immediately if there is any tension on the leash. • When Lassie turns to see what happened to you, praise for her attention and encourage her back into heel position next to you - if necessary, take a few steps backward. • As long as Lassie is next to your leg, continue praising, give food rewards and make it the best possible place in the world to be. • If she loses concentration and is about to put any tension on the leash at all, stop without warning and repeat the above sequence. • Simply STOP every single time you note that Lassie is about to put the slightest tension on the leash and the pulling will go away.
Believe it or not, it’s just that simple! Take Lassie for a walk in a quiet, non-distracting place every day this week with only ONE goal: to walk without pulling. If you don’t take a single forward step when you feel tension, Lassie will learn that pulling is “broken” and that the tension means the walking stops. You need to be consistent and don’t give up, she will learn it. For some very difficult cases, a head halter is very effective. When your dog begins to pull, the design of the head halter put pressure on the nose and causes the dog’s nose to be turned back toward you, which makes it physically difficult for her to continue pulling. A head halter is completely humane, as it doesn’t cause any pain and works much better to pulling than a choke chain or prong collar. Gentle Leader and Halti are both very good and available at most pet supply stores. Because of the risk of neck injuries, a head halter should never be used on a puppy, or by anyone who does not know the proper technique. Finally, unless you are working on obedience or some other training, there is no need for Lassie to wear a leash inside. Once she has learned “Come,” she’ll follow you to any room you call her from. And as far as apologizing for stepping on her, she won’t understand what you mean. Only words that have been learned, like “Sit,” “Down,” Speak,” “Slippers,” etc… have meaning to Lassie. In fact, psychologists who performed a significant amount of research on the subject of dog intelligence, suggests that the average trained dog knows about 160 words. So have fun. Training with Lassie should make you both happy and bring you closer together. Focus on the basics first and then the tricks will come easily.
A
re you having problems with
your pet’s behavior and you just don’t know who to ask? Ask Renee! Renee is a pet behavior consultant and one of the best around! She loves to help people with pet problems and pets with people problems. Renee also assists individuals, shelters and rescue organizations acquire treadmills and learn the basics of exercise behavior therapy specifically for rescued dogs with her non-profit organization called Move Mutt www.movemutt.org If you have any pet behavior questions for Renee, please e-mail them to contactpfm@petfriendlymagazine. com.
Bringing Pet Lovers Together!
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Shaving Your Arctic Dog ~By Dawn Hill www.doggiedayspaw.com
As a groomer, I get inquiries such as “Will you and you will notice in the spring blow, that the coat is not shave my Husky or Pom?” So I fidget, hmm, haw, roll my blowing out as nicely as it used to. It is matting more easily eyes and then go into the long winded speech of why you and turning into solid, hard clumps that are hard to get should not shave your arctic northern breed dog. out. And not the ‘easy just pull it out, fall out’ clumps that These dogs will typically shed for six months in normally happens when the coat sloughs. Again, the coat the spring and six months in the fall. These breeds have a will bald from constant clipping down. double coat. The furry, fuzzy, never ending stuff that flies What can you do to help your dog in the hot seasons? around the house is the undercoat. Then there is the longer Groom, groom, groom! Yes, it may be inconvenient, but top coat, otherwise known as the guard hair. Water runs off this is the responsibility that goes along with owning a this to protect the undercoat. northern dog. In this day and age, taking care of your arctic This combination of coats is designed for the dog is a snap. You have to your availability a plethora of purpose of protecting the dog from extreme thermal groomers and self wash and groom salons. conditions, i.e: extreme cold, extreme heat and the sun. The biggest thing I tell people to do is to bathe and Even shaving down “just” the guard hair blowout their dogs. With the products leaves the undercoat vulnerable to available today for dogs, you can the elements and the UV rays safely wash your dogs more Shaving the from the sun. Remember, frequently. Before buying a undercoat damages it the outer coat protects the lot of over-the-counter brands, undercoat as well as the skin. talk to your groomer or vet beyond repair! A note on dogs and the sun: they about shampoos that are safe. do not have the tanning capability Some over-the-counter brands that that we do; that is why they have “fur.” are very popular, very plentiful and cheap Shaving the undercoat also damages it beyond will strip the oils away and cause problems. Another thing repair. Once you have damaged the undercoat, it will to consider is the water. Ask yourself if it is hard or soft and not grow back to its natural state. It comes back patchy is it laden with chlorine? Hard and chlorine laden water and over time you will notice the hair from the undercoat will dry out the skin and eventually cause problems. getting thinner and thinner, in other words, getting a little Blowing out the undercoat is like peeling off your bald. The exposed undercoat will attract more stuff like sweats after a long jog. It helps to keep your dog cooler and dirt, leaves, sticks etc. because of its soft, sticky nature. It feel much lighter. It also allows the proper air flow through would be equivalent of dragging a real cotton ball through the fur, kind of like doggie air conditioning. Plenty of cool dried weeds. Again, it exposes the dog’s skin to the harmful water and shade and even a kitty pool with water in it will and damaging UV rays. also help beat the heat. Keeping the underbelly between Yes, I have heard it a hundred times, “I shave my the back legs clipped will also help with the heat. There dog all the time and his/her coat grows back”. Yes, the are cooling pads available for dogs to lay on. A behavior coat will grow back, but never with the same integrity as you will notice in all dogs is that they will lay on something the virgin coat. The undercoat will not grow back as even cool to keep cool or vice versa for warmth.~
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September 2009 September 2009
Cooking
With TaIls
www.cookingwithtails.com
“Supplements” Dogs are very similar to us humans, in that they need nutritionally sound diets and exercise to be healthy and to live long lives. I will start off with a warning that these supplements can be toxic. Always keep these in mind to give in the recommended doses.
#1. Calcium #2. Phosphorous #3. Magnesium #4. Iron #5. Copper #6. Zinc #7. Iodine #8. Selenium #9. Vitamin A #10. Vitamin D #11. Vitamin E
7.1 gm. 4.6 gm. 0.86 gm. 857 mg. 71 mg. 286 mg. 14 mg. 0.57 mg. 71,429 IU 1,429 IU 286 IU
*based on a 1000k calorie meal Notice the 3 vitamins that are fat soluble vitamins, are also toxic at high levels in humans.
Bone meal is a perfect way to supplement the calcium and phosphorous. These two minerals must be in a certain ratio, which is set in the bone meal. Make sure to buy human-grade bone meal, available at pet-supply and health food stores. The amount of bone meal to give to your dog will depend on the weight. Start at 274 mg of calcium for a 5-pound dog and increase by 265 mg per 5 pound increase for the daily dose. It is better to give this amount in two divided doses, morning and night, instead of once daily. Essential Fatty Acids are very important for your dogs skin and coat, help fight off infections and reduce inflammation. Good sources of the essential fatty acids are safflower or canola oil, sardines, and dried beans. There are two specific classes of essential fatty acids: Linoleic Acid or Omega-6 and Alpha-Linolenic Acid or Omega-3. It is best not to give an Omega-3 supplement because there is not a correct ratio and the dog can get too much Omega-3 which can depress the immune system. If you would like to give a supplement, add 2 to 3 drops of cold pressed oils that are stored in the refrigerator. Dogs can make their own vitamin A from the vegetables in their diet. Since it can be a toxic vitamin and is in the diet, I do not recommend supplementing.
Vitamin B should be supplemented in a complex form, i.e. vitamin B complex. You can buy a supplement at a pet store or a human supplement at a pharmacy and ask your veterinarian on the correct dose.
Vitamin E is best supplemented with wheat germ oil in capsule form. Ask your veterinarian for the correct dose. Glucosamine, Chondroitin Sulfate and MSM have been very popular supplements for the last few years. These supplements help dogs in the same way they help us humans. They are great for those achy joints, so keep this in mind as your canine gets older or has hip or joint issues. Garlic can be used as a supplement or a flavoring agent. It is great to help digestive issues and ward off parasites, including fleas. You can give a garlic supplement or add a clove of garlic to their food. Consult with your veterinary for your dog’s specific needs.
Bringing Pet Lovers Together! Bringing Pet Lovers Together!
Happy Cooking, Chef Tracy 23 23
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Hi, my name is Keona. I’m 12 years old and I have a 10 month old Dalmatian puppy. Her name is Skip’n Pebbles, Pebs for short. Dalmatians are really expensive so I had to save my money for two years from selling my sheep in 4-H. Which is why I was so excited when my parents said I could get one. You see, the rule in my family is that you can’t have a dog until you’re 14 years old and at that time I was 11 years old. Fortunately, they said I was responsible enough to get one now. Since you can’t find Dalmatians for sale in our area, I had to look on the internet. I didn’t find any in my budget but my aunt did. So she called up my mom and told her she found a litter for sale on the internet clear from Iowa. When my mom called them up there were only three puppies left. I had to make my decision fast on which one I wanted because more people were coming to look at them in a couple hours. I finally made my decision, so I called and told them which one I wanted. In a couple of days they would ship her out to me. Then finally, the day came that we got to pick her up. I was kind of nervous, because buying things online can be dangerous. And for all I knew they could have sent me a one-eyed pug. When we got to the Boise Airport, she wasn’t there yet, so we waited and I did my homework. She finally arrived and she was cuter than I could ever imagine. We brought her home and she slept like a log the whole night. ~~~~~~ What I didn’t know is how funny she is. My mom has a cherry tomato plant and she couldn’t find out why it wasn’t producing ripe tomatoes. Until I caught Pebs in the act! I looked out the window and she was picking off a red cherry tomato. She loves to eat her fruits and vegetables. I probably should have named her Bugs Bunny. She was sure worth all the hard work! 25 Bringing Pet Lovers Together!
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September 2009
Story by Esther L. Holhos-Vaida Illustrations by Jason C. Howie
Episode 1
The room was dark and quiet after my dad had prayed with me and tucked me in. My eyes were beginning to adjust, I could now see my dresser, which was kind of messy and there were toys and clothes here and there around the room. (When I say “kind of messy” I mean really messy, so don’t be fooled!) I looked across the room and I could see the thin line of light that came from under my door. I closed my eyes and tried to go to sleep while I listened to my parent’s voices. “Bye honey, got to go.” I heard my dad say. “Ok, I love you. Bye!” my mom said. The next thing I heard was the garage door open, my dad’s car starting up and the garage door close; dad was off to work. I turned over and took a deep breath, pulling the covers up to my chin. I was just dozing off when I heard a squeak from my pet ferret, Slinky. I turned over to see Slinky trying to pull one of my big toys from my toy box to his little bed. I laughed to myself and got out of bed. This was normal, it was his little routine. He would bring a favorite toy or blanket to sleep with every night. I took the big toy away and gave Slinky the blanket he had slept with the night before. He sniffed it; he was satisfied… for now. He took it to his bed. I got back in bed, too. Ahh, finally some peace and quiet! But not for long. A few minutes later, I heard a pattering of little feet on the floor. I knew it! Slinky was getting a different toy to sleep with. “I’ll just leave him alone,” I thought to myself as I dozed off to sleep. As I slipped off into dreamland, Slinky’s noises seemed to come alive, and form into a reality… Two lone knights galloped across the field Bringing Pet Lovers Together!
on shimmering white horses. The knights leaned forward and urged their horses to a greater speed. They raced across a field into a dark forest, but that did not stop the ugly giant that was pursuing them! When I say “them,” I am talking about Dexter the Brave and Slinky, his loyal friend, who had turned into a knight. They were trying to make it to the safety of the castle. The castle would be strong enough to keep the mean giant out, if they could only get there in time! The branches seemed to reach out and try to stop them. They jumped over a fallen log and almost ran into a huge oak tree, but instead they dodged it and were separated. Worried about the fate of his loyal friend Slinky, Dexter the Brave lifted the visor of his helmet for just an instant and let out a desperate call for his friend, “Slinky! Where are you?”, his voice seemed to bounce off the trees of the forest. The leaves were stinging his face like a thousand bees. To avoid being stung anymore, he quickly dropped down his visor. Finally, as Dexter broke out of the forest into the sunlight, he spotted his friend dashing like an arrow from a different direction. He was thankful that Slinky was safe. They kicked their horses in order to unite themselves faster. With a slight nod, they reassured each other that they were okay, but the giant was still close behind them gaining ground with every passing moment. They saw a ravine a few miles away, but their horses were tired. Would they make it to the Castle of the Rock in time? 27
Petty News In Review IN THE SPORTS- MICHAEL VICK The ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) issued a statement from ASPCA President and CEO Ed Sayres in response to suspended NFL star and convicted dogfighter Michael Vick's conditional reinstatement to the National Football League: "Leaders are challenged to make difficult decisions on a daily basis--often under intense scrutiny and pressure," said Sayres. "Commissioner Roger Goodell's decisions surrounding the Michael Vick case are no exception. While his decision to reinstate Mr. Vick undoubtedly will be met with cheers by some and derision by others, it is clear that the Commissioner has been particularly thoughtful and has weighed every factor in his deliberations. The ASPCA can only offer him our gratitude for the gravity to which he has lent the issue of animal cruelty, as well as the provisions that the Commissioner has set forth to ensure that Mr. Vick has a positive impact on the NFL and his community. "Opportunities for redemption are rarebut that is exactly the opportunity that awaits Mr. Vick. We hope that he rises to the occasion and proves worthy of the rare second chance Commissioner Goodell has granted him." The ASPCA worked closely with federal authorities at every step of the case, first assisting in the investigation itself through the involvement of Dr. Melinda Merck, senior director of Veterinary Forensics with the ASPCA, and later when Dr. Stephen Zawistowski, CAAB, executive vice president of ASPCA Programs, led a team of several Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists in the behavior evaluations of the seized dogs - provided by ASPCA. If you suspect dog fighting in your own neighborhood, contact the police or your local animal control officer. Provide as much information as you can, such as the date and time you noticed something wrong, the address or location, and what led you to believe there was dog fighting taking place. - ASPCA
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THE NAMPA DOG PARK If you haven’t heard by now, the city of Nampa has a really awesome dog park. It officially opened July 20th! The Nampa Dog Park provides a safe place for people and their dogs to exercise and socialize. The six-acre park offers off-leash play areas for dogs of all sizes. Separate areas are available for large and small or older dogs. Nampa’s first dog park presents the perfect occasion for people and pets to interact with others. Handlers and their dogs will enjoy this fully-fenced park with its expansive grassy areas, walking trails, drinking water (for dogs and humans), shade shelters, trees, benches and ample parking. Eventually, once funding becomes available, the park will include a swimming pond for dogs. The park provides ample space for dogs to run around and expend built up energy. While the dogs play, owners will have the opportunity to meet new people and build friendships with others who share common interests. At the Nampa Dog Park, you and your dog will have fun and stay fit together! Visit The Nampa Dog Park today; it’s located at the intersection of 2nd St. S. and E. Amity Ave. near the Kings Rd. overpass. To learn about volunteer or sponsorship opportunities, contact Nampa Parks and Recreation at 208-468-5858 or dogpark@cityofnampa.us.
September 2009
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Business Listings
Veterinary Directory
Breeder Directory
Boise
French Bulldogs
Ada Animal Hospital 8250 W. Victory, Boise 83709 (208) 362-5329 Quality Care for Your Pet - Emphasizing Preventative Care
www.AdaAnimal.com
Habitat Veterinary Health Center 3082 S. Bown Way, Boise 83706 (208) 429-1818 Integrating Traditional Medicine with Acupuncture and Nutritional Therapy to Promote Health and Prevent Disease. Dr. Reed Linenberger and Dr. Sohaila Maleki
www.habitatboise.com
Meridian Settlers Park Veterinary Hospital 3220 N. Meridian Road, Meridian (208) 855-9500 Well-established, full-service, small animal veterinary hospital providing comprehensive medical, surgical and dental care. Dr. Doug Mills
www.settlersparkvet.com
Kissabulls French Bulldogs & Boston Terriers AKC, Family, Show Breeder, Loving Companions
http://ferdinandfarms.tripod.com (208) 467-4138
Shelties Clan Duncan Shelties Shelties for Show and for Fun Since 1968! AKC Champions at Stud; Puppies & Young Adults Occasionally
www.kennelcity.com DANAQ@aol.com
Meridian Valley Humane Society needs volunteers to help walk and care for the dogs in the shelter. You can also help by sponsoring one or both of the fundraisers: • The Wine, Dine & Fine Fashion Show is a benefit dinner and silent auction. They are in need of sponsors and donations for the auction. meridianvalleyhs@gmail.com • 2010 Calendar: Sponsor an ad and/or coupon space in the calendar. Sept. 14th is the deadline! meridiananimalshelter@hotmail. com
Information on Therapy Dogs All of the dogs that attended Camp Rainbow Gold in Ketchem are registered through Therapy Dog’s Inc. (TDInc), based in Cheyenne, WY. A therapy must dog pass a test, three observed visits and strict veterinary requirements before being recommended for registration; this process is performed by representatives of TDInc called Testers/Observers. Upon acceptance for registration, the teams are backed by a five million dollar liability policy provided by TDInc. A nominal yearly membership fee is required. For more information about what therapy dogs are, the requirements, their varied local activities and how to get started, please visit www.IdahoPawsForEffect.com or call (208) 884-8585.
“Macy” “Mango” “Missy”
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“Rocky”
“Lucky”
August 2009 September
Animals In Distress Association (AIDA) Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation www.idahowildliferescue.org Hotline (208) 367-1026 Idaho Herpetological Society Dedicated to the Professional Understanding of Amphibians and Reptiles www.idahoherps.org Hotline (208) 468-2349 Idaho Humane Society 4775 Dorman Street, Boise 83705 www.idahohumanesociety.org (208) 342-3508
Caldwell
Canyon County Animal Shelter 5801 Graye Lane, Caldwell 83607 www.canyoncounty.petfinder.org (208) 455-5921 Brighter Future Rescue Non-profit, no kill rescue. Specializing in giant breed dogs, but will take just about any dog in need. Accepts cats and horses. 11113 Hwy 20/26 Caldwell, Idaho 83605 www.brighterfuturerescue.vpweb.com 208-459-2090 or 208-739-0549
Emmett
Northwest Animal Companions Companion Animal Welfare Organization PO Box 6376, Boise 83707 www.nacidaho.com (208) 429-6600
Pet Adoption League 1526 N. Washington Ave, Emmett 83617 www.emmett-pal.org (208) 365-1359
Pets Are Worth Saving For Life PO Box 44595, Boise 83711 www.idahopawsforlife.org (208) 375-9883
2nd Chance Animal Shelter 1708 N. Whitley, Fruitland 83619 www.2ndchancepets.com (208) 452-PETS
Simply Cats Feline Adoption Center 2833 S. Victory View Way, Boise 83709 www.simplycats.org (208) 343-7177 Spay Neuter Idaho Pets, Inc. (SNIP) Low Cost Spay and Neuter Services and Education www.snipidaho.org snipit@snipidaho.org (208) 968-1338
Fruitland
Hailey
Animal Shelter of the Wood River Valley Serving Blaine County 100 Croy Creek Rd, Hailey 83333 www.animalshelterwrv.org (208) 788-4351
McCall
McPaws Regional Animal Shelter Valley County Rescue and Shelter 831 S. 3rd, McCall 83638 www.mcpaws.org (208) 634-DOGS
Meridian
Meridian Animal Shelter 3401 N. Ten Mile, Meridian 83642 www.petfinder.org/shelters/ID50.html (208) 794-0944
Middleton
Conrad Strays Cat Rescue Rescuing and Fostering Cats for Adoption PO Box 84, Middleton 83644 www.conradstrays.com (208) 585-9665
Mountain Home
Mountain Home City Animal Shelter 1195 S. Main, Mountain Home 83647 (208) 587-2111
Nampa
Idaho Domestic Animal Welfare Group PO Box 9175, Nampa 83652 www.idawg.net (208) 283-9513
Shelter & Rescue Directory
Boise
Pet Haven Humane Society Cat Rescue and Shelter 333 W. Orchard, Nampa 83651 www.pethavenonline.org (208) 466-1298
By listing these shelters, Pet Friendly Magazine is not making any endorsements. It is the reader’s responsibility to determine if a shelter is reliable, clean and kind to animals. Please contact us if you have concerns about any of the shelters listed. (800) 745-9163
Animal and Breed Specific Rescues Bar-Z Weimaraner Rescue Barbara Zilisch barzpk@aol.com (208) 587- 4101 Boston Terrier/French Bulldog Rescue Rescue and Rehab for Flat Faced Breeds Dennis and Dawn Ferdinand (208) 467-4138 or 412-2800 Corgi Rescue Nan (208) 344-3938 Dachshund Idaho Rescue Karen McCombs www.dachschunds.petfinder.com (541) 372-5353 or (208) 695-4761 Emmett Ferret Shelter Bill and Laura Baran www.emmettferret.org info@emmettferret.org (208) 398-8244
Bringing Bringing Pet Pet Lovers Lovers Together! Together!
English Springer Rescue America (ESRA) Sharleen Smith www.springerrescue.org sharann10@q.com (208) 890-3810 Greyhound Rescue of Idaho Virginia www.greyhoundrescueofidaho.org (208) 888-1364 or 703-0333 Havanese Rescue Rescue for Havanese and Part Havanese Lee Podolan www.havaneserescue.com (208) 939-9126
Standard Poodle Society of Boise Teresa Lagoski P.O. Box 166 Boise ID 83701 poodleladyidaho@yahoo.com (208) 384-1227 The Rat Retreat 2791 Christine St, Boise 83704 www.theratretreat.org theratretreat@msn.com (208) 440-5860 Turtle Talk Rescue, Inc. Rescue for Unwanted Turtles/Tortoises www.turtletalkrescue.com
Mink Sanctuary Rescue for Runaway Farm and Wild Rehabs Lisa Martin minkyrescue@yahoo.com (208) 409-3964 Sighthound Adoption Center Roy and Kathi Merritt www.sighthoundadoption.org (208) 362-1147
Answers for the mice search: Pages 7, 8, 13, 17, 18, 23, 26, 28 3131
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September 2009