September/October 2011 Issue of Pet Me! Magazine

Your Guide To All Things Pets Sept/Oct 2011

Beagles Protecting America’s Borders

Pet Me! Interviews The Beagle Brigade

3

Non-Prescription Remedies - Cat Doctor Approved

CANINE BLOAT The Silent Killer of Healthy Dogs

PET ME! Is Always

FREE

To Good Homes

To Adopt One Of These Perfect Pets,

Please Contact Castaic Animal Shelter at 661.257.3191

or Visit Our Website: www.PetMeMag.com

Mcgregor How adorable is this little guy! McGregor is a

Pekingnese/ Spaniel mix and just has the most fun personality.

He loves everyone and gets on well with other dogs. He is around 5-6 years old and just loves to play. He enjoys tummy rubs and running around with his pals at the shelter. McGregor is a huge Volunteer favorite, we all know him and love him and so we would love him to find his new family soon. McGregor would be a great addition to any family and would bring lots of love and fun to that lucky family. Please come and meet McGregor and we’re sure he will be leaving with you! A4323108

Bandit Can you resist this face? I think not! Meet Bandit, one

sweet little black and tan Chihuahua who has more personality than you would think probable! Bandit plays nicely with other dogs and loves all his 2 legged friends. He has friends at the shelter but what Bandit would really like is a new family to call his own. Don’t be fooled by his small stature, Bandit has plenty of energy and would love to go on long walks with you exploring the big wide world beyond the shelter kennel that is his “home” right now. Come on down to Castaic shelter and meet your new 4 legged furry friend! A4309643

Rosy Yes, we have horses and ponies at the shelter! Rosy is a

gorgeous strawberry roan Appaloosa mix around 14-15 hands high. She is around 10-12 years old and is sweet and calm.

Equine adoption applications are available from the shelter office and remember it is highly recommended that your vet check out any horse you are interested in adopting. A4274634

Wilbur

Are you looking for the near perfect dog? Well look no further, he’s at Castaic Shelter in kennel 7! Wilbur is an adorable Lab mix who also happens to be a real gentleman.

He’s sweet and gentle and is a spry 7 years young!! You don’t get to be a mature dog without learning a thing or two,it’s likely that Wilbur is housetrained from what we’ve observed and he also gets on well with everyone, from kids to dogs of all sizes, Wilbur is just a great dog. Mention him at the shelter and the first thing they say is “what a nice dog” and it’s so true.

We all love Wilbur and enjoy our time with him but what we would really love is to see Wilbur in a new home where he can have fun, enjoy his walks and have a really comfy bed to snooze on. Come and meet Wilbur and see if maybe he’s the perfect dog for you! A4321671

Bella Calling all Rottie experienced owners! Bella is looking

for her new home and she would love an active family that would include her in all their adventures. Bella is very smart, she knows sit and down and walks nicely on leash. She gets on well with low-medium energy dogs and is great with people, she loves her 2 legged friends especially when they are ready to hand out lots of tummy rubs and play with her.

Come and meet Bella if you see a large cuddle bunny in your future! A4324361

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September/October

CONTENTS 5 ANCIENT ORIGINS The Dog Days Of Summer

From The

Publisher

6 FRIENDS DON’T SCRUFF FRIENDS How Not To Handlle Your Rabbit

7 3 NON PRESCRIPTION REMEDIES For Your Cat Approved By The Cat Doctor

8 THE BEAGLE BRIGADE A Pet Me! Exclusive

11 CATS Indoor Vs. Outdoor

12 A DIRECTORY FOR ALL THINGS PETS 14 CANINE BLOAT The Silent Killer of Dogs

18 BOW WOWS & MEOWS PET FAIR 11th Annual

19 SEPARATION ANXIETY Are You Leaving Your Pet Alone

22 WARM WEATHER THREATS

Keeping Your Pet Safe During The Summer

Advertising Information Direct: 661.255.9979 Fax: 866.259.9201 29743 Seco Cyn. Rd. #158, Santa Clarita, CA 91350

email: petadv@petmemag.com Web: www.petmemag.com

Please Contact Us For A SubscriptionAnnual Subscription By Mail: $12 PUBLISHER AND EDITOR Bridget Alves PRODUCTION/GRAPHICS Michelle Nati COVER DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY Tony Zinnanti Photography PUBLISHED BY Pet Me! Publications

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F

inally, September arrives. The days shorten, giving us early twilight and relief from the stark heat of the “Dog Days of Summer.”

In this issue we take a look at animals and their roll with the United States government. Pet Me! Magazine interviews the Beagle Brigade; a cadre of highly trained beagles protecting our borders as a unit of the United States Department of Agriculture. Sniffing out dangerous contraband, the Beagle Brigade protects us against agricultural pandemic.

As October approaches, the 2011 Bow Wows & Meows Pet Fair provides an opportunity for prospective pet owners to save an unwanted pet and bring home a wonderful new family member for a modest donation. There will be over 200 dogs and cats to choose from, all of which are spayed, neutered, microchipped and current on their vaccinations. The County of Los Angeles will also be on hand, offering license renewals and vaccination updates.

Despite the waning heat, Pet Me! Magazine reminds its readers that protection from heat exhaustion and your pet’s hydration are still very real concerns. In this issue, Pet Me! Magazine offers ways to help your pet adjust to spending more time alone as children return to school and vacations come to an end.

Thank you for reading! We at Pet Me! Magazine always welcome your comments and suggestions. Thank you for your wonderful emails and kind support.

Bridget Alves Publisher

Pet Me! Magazine

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

imaginations wander. In the multitude of stars, they picked out shapes of beings; many of great beasts and ancient lore depicting battle, victories and beauty. In time, the sky would be divided into 88 constellations, each given its particular region and significance.

Ancient Origins: “The Dog Days of Summer”

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hen we hear the term “Dog Days of Summer,” we imagine a heat wrinkled pooch spread about the ground hopelessly seeking to cool itself despite the waves of warmth that rise from the sun baked ground. In fact, the truth behind the folklore of mid-summer misery reaches far above the ground and beyond the cloudless, searing sky. So, where does the phrase “Dog Days of Summer” come from?

The answer to the Dog Days of Summer is found high above in the constellation of “Canis Major,” commonly known as “The Great Dog.” Savvy astronomers of millennia long ago looked to the darkened skies and let their

As they kept track of the sky, the ancient astronomers would know how the stars revolved in the background of the heavens with those seen and unseen as the seasons shifted. As the summer heat of the northern hemisphere began to swelter, “Sirius,” also known as “The Dog Star,” would slip behind the daylight of the morning sun. On our modern calendar, this conjunction starts about July 3rd and lasts throughout early August. Thus, this period of time came to be called, “The Dog Days of Summer.”

The answer to the Dog Days of Summer is found high above in the constellation of Canis Major...

As Sirius and the Sun conjoined and traveled the sky by day, some ancients ventured to guess that the heat of the great star would beat upon the earth, amplifying the Sun’s summer radiance. Over thousands of years, the folklore has shifted from the banal to the fantastic in the story’s richness. In either case, we share with the ancients no mercy from the stars above during the blight of heat of the “Dog Days of Summer.” - Tony Zinnanti

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

is torn loose from the muscle tissue. In humans, when skin’s function is disordered we experience a strange or abnormal sensation. I assume a rabbit feels the same discomfort and unease. Could this be why some rabbits seem irritable or unfriendly or do not want to be touched?

Friends Don’t Scruff Friends:

How Not to Handle Your Rabbit

By Sandi Ackerman

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abbits are still somewhat less well known than our most common companion animals, we sometimes subject them to care and behavior methods used on dogs and cats. This misapplication can range from the harmless to the life-threatening (as in administration of oral forms of penicillin).

Dogs and cats carry their newborn babies by the scruff (and nurse them round the clock). They commonly use this method to transport the babies from one location to a place the parents feel will be safer. Newborns weigh very little, and they know to hold still and not struggle when carried. Once these babies have gained weight and are able to move around on their own, their parents no longer lift them by the scruff.

As prey animals our domestic rabbits have a different approach to raising their young. Baby rabbits sleep continually until disturbed by the return of their mother at mealtime. Mom buns stay away from their nest in order to not attract predators to the area.1) They return only to feed (usually once a day) in the early dawn.2) Their babies are totally defenseless until they are able to run and move about on their own.

What happens when a rabbit is picked up by the scruff?

Their skin is made up of three layers, the epidermis, the dermis and GROOMING the subcutaneous.

Just as in our human skin, SALON & rabbits’ skinPET is plentifully ADOPTIONsupplied with nerves, which allow them (661) to feel296-2020 your touch; temperature; and pain. The For Appointments subcutaneous layer consists ofCyn. fat,Rd. connective tissue, blood 27737 Bouquet vessels and Suite nerves.

This layer helps hold the skin to the 124 Saugus muscle tissue.

When you lift a rabbit by the scruff the skin

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After babyhood, Bunny loses the “freeze” reflex and may struggle and hurt herself trying to get free when restrained.

Scruffing is what happens when a hawk or raccoon has you in her grasp and is about to make you her supper. Thus scruffing is both painful and terrifying. When placed back on the ground, Bunny may attempt to get away as she would from any predator. While rabbits may never actually enjoy the handling necessary for routine care, there are many ways to accomplish these tasks that are less frightening and therefore more effective as well as more humane than scruffing. We do not lift our cats and dogs by the scruff, they are much too heavy. We have even more reason not to scruff rabbits.

Using scruffing as a way to control an animal, during nail clipping for instance, can be done as long as their rear end is supported against a solid surface.

For information on appropriate handling visit: www.rabbit.org - Courtesy of the House Rabbit Society Forgotten Angels Cat Rescue

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Weekly Adoption Events West Palmdale Petsmart (39523 10th Street West) Saturday: 11:00 - 4:00 Petco – Saugus (26501 Bouquet Canyon Rd) 2nd & 4th Sunday’s of each month Check out our Adorable Adoptables at:

www.ForgottenAngelsRescue.org

(661) 273-9822

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

First of all a warning: certain over-the-counter non prescription human medications are deadly to cats. The worst is probably acetaminophen-(Tylenol)-even one can kill a cat by damaging their red blood cells, causing a severe anemia and kidney or liver damage. So, please, the following remedies are generally safe, but use common sense and please don’t play veterinarian. If your cat is losing weight, has changes in appetite or thirst or severe respiratory signs, don’t reach for a home remedy, call a veterinarian!

Let’s start with a simple amino acid, L-Lysine. L-Lysine, like other amino acids is a protein building block, not a drug. If your cat is a feline herpes carrier (and more than half of all cats are) ¼ tsp. (500 mg) of L-Lysine powder added to your cat’s canned food can help your cat avoid flare-ups that can occur during times of stress. The powder is easily ordered on the internet. We use L-Lysine to fool your cat’s herpes virus into self-destructing by using L-Lysine, instead of another amino acid Arginine, when making new copies of itself. This decreases the amount of herpes virus in your cat’s body and hopefully eliminates clinical signs such as sneezing or squinting s a cat doctor, I love to see you bringing in your cat for a visit with me, either for the all-important annual one eye and reddish brown discharge. Green or yellow wellness check-up or when your cat needs my help to discharge from your cat’s eye or nose is probably not feline herpes and deserves a veterinary visit. feel better. That said, there are situations when you can find the help your cat needs for simple problems in your medicine cabinet.

3 Non-prescription Remedies

For Your Cat Approved by The Cat Doctor

A

We Speak Meow, Your Cat Can Feel The Difference!

r Visit outhe at booth ows Bow Wows & Me Pet Fair

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e d a g i r B e l g a e B e

FEATURES

Pet Me! Magazine Interviews:

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

Th

From left to right, Susan Terlaan with Rocket, Jill Chen with Mela, Leticia Hale with Tyco, Michelle Schlinskey with Aruba and Min Kim with Jino.

Story and Photography by Tony Zinnanti

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guess you have to remember that they’re beagles; rambunctious, sometimes unruly and with a constant nose for the occasional treat. But, these beagles work under authority of the federal government in a manner few others are capable, as they protect the United States from dangers that might wreck havoc on people, agriculture and industry.

The Beagle Brigade at Los Angeles International Airport is part of the United States Department of Agriculture, which operates as part of the United States Customs and Border Protection. The LAX division of the Beagle Brigade is trained to uncover fruits, vegetables, plants and meats which are being carried into the United States by passengers from abroad. The operation is a critical one because items infected with parasites or disease can give way to pandemic destruction of crops and losses in the millions of dollars.

The Beagle Brigade was brought together as part of border protection for the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics and it has been around since. The government wisely chose 8

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the beagle for its keen sense of smell and its stature. “The dog is a good ambassador,” explains Agricultural Specialist Supervisor, Diana Verity.

By virtue of the beagle’s smaller size and friendly demeanor, people are more receptive to the dogs and, therefore, more likely to disclose possession of items that should not be brought into the country.

Adoption and Training The Department of Agriculture looks for beagles that are energetic, food trainable and that will pass a temperament test. Dogs of three years, or older, are preferred because they are much less distracted than puppies. The dogs are then sent for training in the Georgia facility where they undergo an initial five weeks of training on odors. Finally, they are introduced to a handler who undertakes an additional 10 weeks of training. Then it’s testing time.

To be part of the Beagle Brigade, each beagle must pass a

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

certification test. However, the Department of Agriculture understands that certification is a team effort between the beagle and the handler. To pass or fail is as much a human issue as it is a canine issue. Fortunately for all, most of the teams pass the rigorous testing.

Once the beagles is certified, they are placed at a port of entry and given time to acclimate to their new home.

There, they begin their service life of eight years. When beagles grow old and weary, it is typical for their handler to personally adopt them and take them home. Working together daily, there is an indelible bond between beagle and handler.

On The Job I try to wade amongst the pack, finding angles for photos as the beagles carry on with each other. They posture and pant. They prick their ears in their fabulous surroundings of the security corridor of LAX’s Terminal 7. They are a pack of happy coworkers and friends.

Jino, a tri-color beagle, who is handled by Agent Min Kim, lowers his head and takes a whiff of a passenger’s leg. Jino shifts his eyes, opens his mouth in a panting smile and moves to the next passenger. Jino is swift; evaluating each subject with speed and precision before turning around to make glancing eye contact with Agent Kim.

As part of their mandatory four hours per week training, the dogs are given a slalom course of bags and suitcases.

One or two of the bags is loaded with a target item. The beagles go to work sifting through scents, around and over the faux luggage. Finally, there is a pause, a nudge and the beagle’s indication of the bag holding the illegal cargo. “Show me,” is the handler’s prompt for the beagle to verify the suspicious cargo.

While this Beagle Brigade is exclusively trained to detect agricultural items, the team of beagles has uncovered stunningly exotic contraband from time to time. Supervisor Verity tells of a story where a beagle reacted to a woman entering from Germany. It turns out that the woman had been concealing a monkey beneath her jacket. But for detection by the beagle, the primate and its potential diseases. Other notable “beagle busts” have included 60 pounds of buffalo tendon from Vietnam, lemons filled with fruit flies headed to Florida and exotic items such as elephant toenails. (continued on page 17)

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(continued from page 8) -If your cat seems to feel fine, but both his eyes are watering with a clear discharge and he is sneezing either dry or wet sneezes with no colored discharge, he or she may be experiencing some allergies. If you are feeding fish, try switching to poultry (chicken or turkey). If you have a deodorized cat litter, try switching to an unscented dust free litter and an uncovered litter box.

Chlorpheniramine (also known as Chlortrimeton) , is an overthe-counter antihistamine that can really help many cats with pollen or dust allergies. Use ¼ to ½ of a 4 mg tablet once or twice a day; if it’s going to help, it should work within 24 hours. Rare side effects include sleepiness (how are you going to tell?) and very rarely, diarrhea, in which case stop using chlorpheniramine. Chlorpheniramine is not for cats who are acting sick.

While almost all cats vomit now and then, I will often see an interesting pattern in senior cats. They will vomit almost nightly, either in the early morning hours or when you first feed them in the morning. As cats age, their gastroesophageal sphincter gets a little lazy and they can experience nighttime “heart burn” ( acid reflux esophagitis). Giving them ¼ of a 10 mg. famotidine tablet (Pepcid AC) at night or a bedtime snack can help stop this. Obviously, if your senior cat is vomiting repeatedly or is losing weight, don’t try this remedy – call your veterinarian!

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

Cats: Indoor Vs. Outdoor

he answer isn’t a simple yes or no – it depends on the cat and where you live. Most veterinarians, including all of us at The Cat Doctor & Friends, tend to favor a safer indoors only lifestyle.

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calories, especially if they hunt. The bad news about cats who hunt are their exposure to tapeworm if they hunt and eat rats or mice and the significant decrease in songbird populations wherever there are many outdoor cats.

That said, not every cat can be happy as an indoors only cat. For owners who want an indoors only cat, I encourage adopting a kitten who has never been outdoors. As I like to say, “What a cat doesn’t know, he doesn’t miss.” Cats who have spent significant time outdoors can feel imprisoned indoors although some do adapt well, especially timid or anxious cats. Many outdoors only cats are grateful to come indoors-no more looking over their shoulder for unknown dangers.

In order to prevent an overweight indoor cat, try environmental enrichment and avoiding the common practice of free feeding (a never empty bowl of dry food).

Environmental enrichment involves window perches, “cat trees”, toys and playing with your cat. Some cats will fetch, others will jump at a string waved in their face and some prefer an empty paper bag or box to explore. A newer idea is the “food ball” which is a ball filled with treats that the cat must manipulate in order to get a treat. For more ideas, go to www.catvets.com/healthtopics/wellness.

The advantages of an indoor only lifestyle are obvious – no coyotes, no cars, no dog bites, no exposure to unknown poisons, no exposure to fleas or ticks or other parasites and no exposure to most infectious diseases. Indoor only cats tend to live longer and it is easier to monitor a cat’s health when he or she lives indoors, since an indoor cat must use a litter box and can only eat and drink what you offer him. So if your indoors only cat stops using the litter box, or starts drinking a lot of water, you will know right away. Hint – calling your veterinarian should be your next move.

Because indoor cats depend on us for entertainment, I believe that we develop deeper bonds with our indoor cats. They get to know us and our habits and we start to understand their little quirks, likes and dislikes. It’s a lot like a good marriage.

Having an outdoors cat is more like dating….non – exclusively.

One last thought – it seems to be a very common myth among cat owners that if a cat never goes outdoors, he or she won’t need to go to the veterinarian for annual check ups. While it’s true that an indoor cat will probably have Outdoor cats tend to use the outdoors instead of a litter fewer health problems, he or she can still have dental issues or box which is one of the advantages, at least for the owner, of allergies, diabetes, kidney, liver or heart disease. They’ll need an outdoors lifestyle at least as far as convenience goes. While fewer vaccines then outdoor cats do, though.

I can’t say I love litter box cleaning duty, newer litters have eliminated litter box odor as a major problem if you scoop In conclusion, I vote for indoors over outdoors for many conscientiously and wash litter pans weekly. reasons. If your cat absolutely must go outdoors, please keep them inside from early dusk until well after dawn, to The other advantage of an outdoor lifestyle is the decrease the chance of a coyote encounter. Please consider avoidance of obesity, which is a major problem for many an outdoor enclosure as a compromise – good examples can indoors only cats. Outdoor cats do tend to burn more be seen at www.habitathaven.com.- Courtesy of The Cat Doctor and Friends Pet Me! Magazine™

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Trusted Vets in and around the SGV Stevenson Ranch Veterinary Hospital 25832 Hemingway Ave. Santa Clarita • 661-799-0655 www.srvc.aahavet.org Valencia Veterinary Center 23928 Summerhill Lane Valencia • 661-263-9000 www.bestvalenciavet.com VIP Veterinary Hospital 26111 Bouquet Cyn Road Saugus • 661-222-PETS (7387) www.vippethospital.com Seco Canyon Animal Clinic 27935 Seco Canyon Road Santa Clarita • 661-296-8848 www.secocanyonanimalclinic.info The Cat Doctor & Friends 26055 Bouquet Canyon Road Santa Clarita • 661-259-5288 www.catdoctor.com Happy Pets Veterinary 27550 Newhall Ranch Road Valencia • 661-295-9972 www.happypetsveterinary.com Palm Plaza Pet Hospital 2501 E. Palmdale Blvd.

Palmdale • 661-272-4551 www.palmplazapet.com Dawn Smith Veterinary 330 West Avenue “I” 661-948-5065

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Your Directory For Best Boarding Facilties All Breed Boarding 661-618-6628 www.hashaus.com Canine Country Club 20341 Blue Cloud Road Santa Clarita • 661-296-0566 www.cccofscv.com Castaic Canine Camp North Ridge Route Road Castaic • 661-257-0957 www.castaiccaninecamp.com

Great Groomers

Precious Pets 661-513-0778 27737 Bouquet Cyn. Rd. Suite 124, Saugus, 91350

Pampering Pet Sitters Dogone-it Marlee 661-251-3873

Kyle’s Custom Critter Care 661-305-4981 kylescustomcrittercare.com A-Z Critter Care 661-874-4373 www.a-zcrittercare.com

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

Remarkable Rescues and Animal Shelters Brittany Foundation Agua Dulce • 661-713-5240 www.brittanyfoundation.com

Kitten Rescue www.kittenrescue.org

Forgotten Angels Cat Rescue Acton • 661-273-9822 www.forgottenangelsrescue.org

PetSave Foundation Bunny Rescue 661-478-7360 www.petsave.org

Second Chance Rescue Acton • 661-269-1041 Save A Kitty, Inc. 818-825-3096 www.SaveaKittyCA.org Castaic Animal Shelter 31044 N Charlie Canyon Road Castaic 661-257-3191 www.animalcare.lacounty.gov Lancaster Shelter 5210 W Avenue “I” Lancaster • 661-940-4191 www.animalcare.lacounty.gov Kern County Animal Control 201 S. Mt. Vernon Bakersfield • 661-868-7100 www.animalcare.lacounty.gov Ratz Nest Rescue 661-303-7872 www.ratznest.weebly.com Citizens for Sheltered Animals, Inc. 26893 Bouquet Canyon Road C-318 661-513-9288 www.citizensforsheltedanimals.com

Dynamic Dog Trainers Doggone Happy Tami Cox (Certified) 661-310-4133

Pawpular Pet Suppliers

Pet Supply Santa Clarita 26831 Bouquet Canyon Road Santa Clarita • 661-296-2654 www.petsupplysantaclarita.com Fox Feed 17028 Sierra Highway Canyon Country, CA 91387 661-252-9792

Animal Aftercare

Guardian Animal Aftercare 818-768-6465 www.guardianaftercare.com

Pet Me! Magazine™

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

All Things Pets!

Ongoing Adoptions

Castaic Animal Shelter 31044 N. Charlie Canyon Road Hours: Monday – Thursday: 12 PM – 7 PM Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM Closed Holidays 661-257-3191 Castaic Shelter-Petco (Bouquet & Newhall Ranch) Every 2nd Sunday 11 AM - 3 PM 661-297-6936 Petco (Bouquet & Newhall Ranch) 26501 Bouquet Canyon Road Bunny Adoptions 7 days a week Contact Wendy • 661-478-7360 Petsmart- Cat & Kitten Rescue Stevenson Ranch 24945 Pico Canyon Road Every Sat & Sun 11 AM - 3 PM 661-260-3990 Cat & Kitten Adoptions Petsmart Canyon Country Every Sat & Sun 11 AM - 3 PM 19059 Golden Valley Road 661-250-8204

Heirloom Pet Portraits

Santa Clarita Photographic Studio 661-775-0890 www.scphotostudio.com

September/October Adoptions & Events

Every 2nd Sunday Castaic Shelter - Petco (Seco & Bouquet) 11 AM - 3 PM 26501 Bouquet Canyon Road Santa Clarita Every Month Castaic Shelter - Petsmart (Seco & Bouquet) 11 AM - 3 PM 24965 Pico Canyon Road Stevenson Ranch Visit our website for dates and times

October 9th 10 AM - 4 PM Bow Wows & Meows Pet Fair Hart Park, Newhall - Sunday www.bowwowsandmeows.org

Sept 10th 8AM-12PM Wag ‘N Walk A fun morning walk for you and your canine companions. Join us for a day of fun, family and fundraising!

Rancho Simi Community Park 1765 Royal Ave, Simi Valley (Corner of Royal and Erringer) www.arvsimi.org/Wag_N_Walk.html

For questions regarding Foster and Adoption Castaic Animal Shelter

Call Debbie Rosato 661-257-3191 • www.animalcare.lacounty.gov Bunny Rescue/Volunteer Contact Wendy 661-478-7360 Find more adoptables at petconnectus.com or contact your local shelter or rescue. Visit our website for additional rescue and shelter information.

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Canine Bloat:

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

through the pylorus. This prevents the escape of gas causing the stomach to twist on the longitudinal axis of the digestive tract.

Gas distension may occur prior to or after the stomach twists.

The most common direction for rotation is clockwise, viewing the animal from the posterior. The stomach can rotate up to 360° in this direction and 90° counterclockwise. If the volvulus (twisting) is greater than 180°, the esophagus will close off, preventing your dog from relieving the condition by belching or vomiting.

An otherwise healthy dog will experience low blood pressure, decreased blood supply to the heart and stomach, and shock.

Pressure on the portal vein decreases blood flow to the liver, an organ vital to removing toxins and bacteria from the blood.

The spleen can also be damaged with the twisting cutting off the blood supply, leading to blood poising, peritonitis, toxic shock and death.

Prevention of bloat can be difficult. Because there are so many possible causes for this condition, prevention must be examined on an individual basis. Since bloat is believed to be hereditary, these preventive measures can only decrease the chances of bloat. But, if you have a dog that is at risk, there are a couple of things that you can do to decrease the chances of this fatal condition:

The Silent Killer of Healthy Dogs

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ne minute your pooch is mopping up his dinner. The next, he’s going into shock, only to become comatose and die all before you have a chance to know what happened. This is bloat. It is one of the most frightening things that can happen to your pet.

The exact cause of bloat is still unknown. Generally, it is believed that excessive eating and drinking of water followed by exercise can cause bloat. It is thought that exercise causes food or fluid in the stomach to cause a build-up of gas resulting in a fatal effect.

Canine bloat, also known as “gastric dilatation-volvulus” or “GDV,” is a medical condition where the stomach becomes over-filled with gas causing the stomach to become distended. This can often lead to the stomach twisting; a condition also known as “gastric torsion.” Without treatment, the chance of death is about 60 percent. Even with treatment and surgery the death rate is 15 to 33 percent. Bloat is the second leading killer of dogs; cancer being the foremost.

There are a variety of causes of bloat. Some of the more likely causes include the breed, having a deep and narrow chest, eating too quickly or too much water consumption in a small period of time or following exercise. For example, dry kibble can expand in the stomach when it hits liquids, leaving no place to expand.

Pre-existing gastrointestinal disease is also a suspected cause. And, while this condition can happen to any breed, certain breeds are more susceptible. Deep chested breeds are especially at risk, for example, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Irish Setters, Weimaraners, Standard Poodles, Dobermans, Rottweilers, Basset Hounds and Gordon Setters.

Bloat occurs when the sphincter between the esophagus and the stomach stops functioning, causing an obstruction of outflow

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• Do not overfeed • Feed 2-3 small meals a day • Do not use elevated food bowls • Do not allow your dog to drink large amounts of water after eating • Add an enzyme product to your dogs food • Keep emergency veterinary contact handy The symptoms of canine bloat include: • Anxious, restless • Distended abdomen • Attempting to vomit • Excessive drooling • Whining • Pale gums • Increase in heart rate • Difficult breathing If not treated, it can be fatal. If you see any symptoms contact your veterinarian immediately. Every second will count!

Featured in this photo is Bruno an abandoned Mastiff mix found wandering the streets of Acton emaciated and frightened was rescued by a local family who already has 3 large dogs and cannot keep him. Bruno is people & pet friendly and is available for adoption. Please contact info@petmemag.com for further info.

DOGONE-IT! Visit our Bow Wows booth at the Pet Fair & Meows g treat do and get a free

PET SITTING Marlee

(661) 251-3873

I love ‘em when you ha ve to lea ve ‘em!

Mobile Dog Training • Dog Walking

Pet Me! Magazine™

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

FOOD ENTERTAINMENT FUN!

Admission is FREE William S. Hart Park 24151 Newhall Avenue Santa Clarita, CA 91321 SHUT TLED PARKING

By Hart Park FOR PEOPLE & THEIR PETS

FREE

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2011 • 11AM–4PM

BRIN YOU G PET R S!

BowWowsAndMeows.org

FREE community fair celebrating pets, encouraging animal awareness & promoting pet adoption within our community and beyond...

May not be combined with any other offer. Offer expires 10/31/11.

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

Family time has a whole new meaning.

Smith Veterinary Hospital “Your Other Family Doctor”

661.948.5065 330 West Ave I Lancaster, CA 93534

ur Visit o the t a h t boo ows Bow Wows & Me Pet Fair

16 Pet Me! Magazine™

Pet Me! Magazine™

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

(continued from page 9) A Saved Dog Saves Its Country One of the most significant interceptions by the Beagle Brigade was a stash of fresh curry leaves that came in with a passenger from India. The uncovered leaves were inspected by a U.S. Agricultural Agent and revealed small insects. The insects turned out to be Asian Citrus Psyllids.

These are beagles that have been discarded over inconvenience and perceived incompatibility with their former homes. Saved form shelters and rescues, the beagles of the Beagle Brigade have found a new life, a critical purpose and a way to proudly serve their country.

Worse, the bugs were infected with candidatus liberibacter, a bacterium which causes “citrus greening,” a deadly disease for citrus trees. The “citrus greening,” or huanglongbing (yellow dragon disease), can be considered one of the most serious citrus diseases in the world. One properly trained beagle likely saved citrus rich California from millions of dollars in loss from disease.

Notably, the beagles that make up the Beagle Brigade are dogs that have either been donated or rescued. There is no breeding program for these canines. These are beagles that have been discarded over inconvenience and perceived incompatibility with their former homes. Saved form shelters and rescues, the beagles of the Beagle Brigade have found a new life, a critical purpose and a way to proudly serve their country.

VPI Pet Insurance, Care Credit, Senior Discount

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

11th Annual Bow Wows & Meows Pet Fair Offers Free Family Entertainment & Low Cost Pet Adoptions

S

eeking free family fun or looking for that perfect pet? The 11th Annual Bow-Wows and Meows Pet Fair will feature an exciting lineup of entertainment, pet-related vendors and adoptable dogs and cats from Los Angeles County shelters at Newhall’s William S. Hart Park on Sunday, October 9.

The festivities kick off at 11 a.m. with a delicious array of food, including vegetarian options, demonstrations from Ventura County Sheriff K-9 Search & Rescue and an educational seminar on “The Truth About Pit Bulls”. The popular Famous Fun Dog Show, with categories ranging from best vocalist to mystery mutt to petowner look alike, will be making a return appearance, as well.

Bow-Wows & Meows will also feature low-cost vaccine and free rabies and micro-chipping clinics, personalized ID tags and children’s bracelets, pet photographers and a special $8 day pass to the Kids Zone.

Pet adoptions at Bow-Wows & Meows are a low $30 and there will be more than 200 dogs and cats to choose from. All pets are

18 Pet Me! Magazine™

spayed or neutered, micro chipped and current on vaccinations.

The county will also offer pet license renewals on site.

Leashed pets are welcome at the fair, which lasts until 4 p.m. The Fun Dog Show, which costs $10 to enter per category, starts at 1 p.m., while the Ventura County Sheriff K-9 Search & Rescue demonstrations will be presented at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Throughout the day, DJ Mark Fortier of What A Party! will spin festive tunes and provide amusement.

Since it began in 2001, the Valencia-based Bow-Wows & Meows, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, has adopted out more than 1,000 shelter animals at their annual pet fairs.

Bow-Wows & Meows Pet Fair, Sunday, October 9 at William S. Hart Park, 24151 Newhall Avenue, Newhall. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Free.

For more information, visit www.bowwowsandmeows.org or call (661) 297-5961. Hart Park will offer shuttled parking for people and pets at just $2 and free parking remains available in the surrounding areas.

Pet Me! Magazine™

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

Are You Leaving Your Pet Alone?

By: Marla Ashmore

N

o doubt about it… Summer is never long enough. There is never enough time to do all the things we want to do, go to all the places we want to go, and never enough time off from school or work. By the time fall arrives, most pets have gotten used to having more attention and interaction with their owners.

When school begins, schedules change. Younger kids are gone most of the day and college students are away altogether. For working households, the pace on the job may pick up too. Your schedule may be more hectic and require you or your family to be away from home for longer periods during the day. However, your pet still faithfully waits for you with the same or even greater needs as before. They may have higher expectations after enjoying the luxury of your increased attention during the warmer months.

One of the concerns people most often mention about their pet is “separation anxiety”. That’s a big term that means your dog found creative ways to let you know they didn’t like the fact that you left them behind. Your pet could chew up carpet, furniture, doors, etc. They might even bark until the neighbors call the police. In extreme cases, your pet may soil your bed or favorite chair. None of these behaviors typically inspires us to be patient, loving and gentle. However, your pet is frightened and totally distressed if she is having these behaviors. She would never disappoint you on purpose.

When Your Family Pet Deserves The Best!

Lisa A. Pope, D.V.M. Amber Wheelbarger, D.V.M. • Full Service Veterinary Hospital • All surgical patients provided with pain medication • Microchip identification WE SEE & implantation available EXOTICS

HOURS:

Mon.,Wed., Fri. 8am-6pm Tues., Thurs.

8am-8pm Sat.- 8am-2pm

For simple cases of separation anxiety, you may try these remedies: •

•

•

•

Your pet has gotten used to the signs of your leaving; you put on your shoes, turn off the TV, and grab your keys on your way out. Try being less predictable by changing your usual routine.

When it is time to leave, just leave quietly. Don’t make a big ordeal of your leaving with hugs, kisses, or long goodbyes.

These clues might make your pet feel more anxious. Try ignoring your pet for about 15 minutes before you leave.

Create a safe, secure room or area for your dog while you are away. Include their bedding and favorite toys, and provide some normal household sounds by playing a radio or leaving a television on.

Sometimes a second furry family member can provide both pets with the security and companionship of a good buddy during the day. Be sure to involve your current pet in the selection process for a good match.

Valencia Veterinary Center is located at 23928 Summerhill Lane in Valencia. For more information please call 661-263-9000 and visit www.bestvalenciavet.com

(661)

799-0655 www.SRVC.com CARE CREDIT ATM CARDS ACCEPTED

25832 Hemingway Ave. • Stevenson Ranch (Corner of Stevenson Ranch Road)

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

Warm Weather Threats P

et owners should be completely aware of common summer time dangers that can threaten our pet’s lives including heat strokes, burnt paw pads, snake bites, and pool drowning.

Knowing how to prevent these threats and how to detect the early signs of trouble can save your precious pet’s life. Palm Plaza Pet Hospital would like to remind you to protect your pets from the dangers that the summer days bring. Pets have a hard time cooling off because they don’t sweat. High body temperature can lead to tremors, seizures, permanent brain damage and even death. In some cases your pet can get a heat stroke for no specific reason other then it being very hot outside.

Make sure you’re always very observant of how your pet is acting and responding to the current heat. Shaded areas and access to fresh clean water at all times is very important. Some pets will refuse to drink hot water regardless of how hot and thirsty they are. Make sure multiple fresh water sources are available for your pets at all times.

Signs of heat stroke include, heavy panting, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, tremors, weakness, bright red gum color, and sticky thick drool. If you suspect that your pet is having a heatstroke, it is very important to get your pet to a veterinarian immediately. Leaving pets in the car with the windows “cracked open for ventilation” is extremely life threatening. Temperatures of over 120 degrees Fahrenheit can be reached inside a car with “cracked windows” within minutes. Absolutely, never leave your pet in the car.

great things you can do to help keep your pets cool. Place kitty pools in a shaded area to help keep the water cool and make sure to change the water daily. Be very cautious with small breeds, geriatric and pediatric pets, and pets with certain medical conditions such as epilepsy. These pets may run the risk of drowning, It is very important that they are allowed to play in the kitty pools only under direct supervision. Same advice is recommended for pets playing or having access to regular pools along with making sure they know how to swim and how to get out of the pools without assistance.

Olga Ramirez R.V.T Palm Plaza Pet Hospital

A few good reasons to advertise in

Pet Me! Magazine

™

Pet Me! Magazine is delivered to thousands of pet loving households in the SCV.

We are distributed in The Signal Newspaper and in hundreds of local businesses throughout the SCV, and Antelope Valley.

Going out for a walk or to the park with your pet is a lot of fun, try scheduling these activities early in the morning or later during the day once the heat of the day has decrease. Burnt paw pads are very painful and the healing process of these injuries can be very slow, painful and frustrating, so make sure your pet is not walking on hot gravel or cement.

There is no additional charge to place your ad on our website.

Some snakes can be very aggressive, highly venomous and deadly.

It is very important to always be aware of your surroundings, if you suspect that your pet has gotten bitten by a snake, it is very important to stay calm and avoid exerting your pet. It is very important that you take your pet to the veterinarian so that he/ she may receive medical attention immediately. Do not, under any circumstances, try to catch the snake; this can put you in harms way.

We donate a page in every issue to a local animal shelter.

If you’re suffering because its hot outside, chances are, your pet is also suffering from the heat too. If bringing your pet indoorto a nice air-conditioned room is not feasible, there are other 22 Pet Me! Magazine™

Your ad is included in our social network marketing, and directory both online and in the magazine free of charge.

Advertorial is free with your half page or larger ad.

We cover local pet related events and services in the SCV. Our publication and readership is growing daily - both print and online.

We support adoption and strive to educate our readers about their pets needs.

We are distributed at several pet adoption, rescue organizations and local animal shelters.

It’s a great opportunity to remind local pet owners anout your business - whether it’s well established or recently opened.

Don’t Wait - Call Today! rial! dv1/2epragtoe ad A E E R F minimum

661-255-9979 info@petmemag.com

Pet Me! Magazine | 661-255-9979 • FAX 866-259-9201 | petmemag.com 27943 Seco Canyon Road | Suite 518 | Santa Clarita | CA | 91350

To Adopt One Of These Perfect Pets,

Please Contact Castaic Animal Shelter at 661.257.3191

or Visit Our Website: www.PetMeMag.com

Sophia Meet Sophia a gorgeous Maine Coon! Her stunning

markings and exceptional personality make Sophia a volunteer favorite! Sophia is very affectionate and loves to be brushed and fussed over. Sophia is a happy good girl who uses her litter box and is good with other cats. The shelter has been a scary place for Sophia who is patiently awaiting her forever home. She has all her shots and has tested negative for Feline Leukemia.

Please consider rescuing beautiful Sophia. Abandoned by her family after 8 years, Sophia deserves a loving home. Won’t you open your heart and home to Sophia?

Cookie

Cookie is a loving petite tortoiseshell (torti) who is looking for her forever home. She was surrendered to the shelter with her brother because her family had allergies.

Cookie is a 1 ½ yrs. old. She is very friendly, loves to play with string and toys. She has a lot of energy and is good with cats (of the opposite sex) and dogs. Cookie would do best in a home with older children. Cookie is an indoor cat accustomed to curling up in bed at night. She is happy and healthy and will provide years of love and affection for her new family. She can be adopted through the Castaic Animal Shelter. To learn more about Cookie call 661-255-9979 #A4297523

Buttons

Buttons is a loving handsome orange tabby who loves to have his beautiful long fur brushed. He is a very friendly mellow boy who will follow you around patiently waiting to shower you with love and affection. He gets along with other cats, dogs and older children. He’s a 1 ½ yrs. old neutered male up to date on his shots. In his previous life he was an indoor kitty who curled up at night in bed with his family. He would love a nice lap to cuddle up on. Buttons can be adopted through the Castaic Animal Shelter. To meet Buttons and learn more about him call 661-255-9979. #A4297521

Lela Simply put Lela is the most affectionate kitty you will

ever meet! She is a 2 yr. old Maine Coon surrendered because her owner was moving. Lela loves to be brushed for hours. She would love to have a human of her own. She is an ideal pet for someone who works from home or is retired. Lela is extremely beautiful with classic striking Maine Coon markings. She is selective about her feline companions and would prefer to be the only kitty. She is a good girl who uses her litter box regularly. She is healthy, has recently had a complete vet check (comes with records) and has tested negative for feline leukemia. She is just the perfect kitty! Won’t you please make room for Lela and give her the love she deserves. Lela can be adopted through the Castaic Animal Shelter. To meet Lela and learn more about her call 661-255-9979. #A4286162

Freckles

Freckles can’t figure out how she ended up at the shelter after 11 years with her family. She’s very sad and confused. Freckles is friendly and gets along well with other cats. She desperately needs her knight in shining armor to rescue her from the shelter and give her the warm secure home every senior deserves. Freckles is an indoor cat. She is up to date on her shots and has tested negative for feline leukemia. Please consider adopting this senior girl . Seniors are the most at risk in the shelter. Freckles would make an extraordinary companion. Many cats live to be 20 yrs. old!

Please come visit Freckles in the Cat Habitat at the Castaic Animal Shelter. #A4312897

and Stop by booth at visit our Wow's & the Bow Pet Fair Meow's

• Laser

Wound Therapy