Pets in the City Magazine April 2018

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Spring Super Adoption

Find your new best friend

t e P Is Your Cat a Picky Eater?

A Saving Grace for Cancer Care

s e i d o Fo Understanding Pet Food Labels

APRIL 2018 | VOL. 6 NO. 8 | PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM

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nimals can be crazy when it comes to food. I have a cat who will appear out of nowhere at the sound of popcorn in the microwave. And tortilla chips.

Then there’s the Greyhound I know who truly believes ice cubes are cookies. In his mind, they are the best post-romp treat ever. My dad had a dog who loved carrots.

And then there was their horse. One afternoon at a barn party of some sort, people were standing by the pasture fence, chatting. Imagine their surprise when they realized the horse had come up behind them and was happily lapping up a rum and Coke! (Yes, the cup was quickly removed from the fence post.)

It turns out, our pets can be just as picky as we can when it comes to food. And it can be hard to determine what the best food for them is. This month, we learn about a Texas organization that’s having some success

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adding a keto-diet to their cancer treatments.

Food labels are so confusing, we have not one but two articles about deciphering them, as well as a fun look at why cats are such picky eaters!

As you consider the best food for your pets, we suggest you work with your vet and consider your pet’s needs. In the case of our dog, we cut out grains when I cut them out of my own diet and felt much better. If I wasn’t eating it, I didn’t want my pets eating it either.

Switching the cats over is going to take some time.

While he made the switch to grainfree without issue, when I tried sprinkling a raw pet food into his bowl, he was sick every day. After three days, I gave up. Our publisher, Debbie, switched her dog to raw without a problem. My point is that what works for me, may not be good for you. So consider your pet, her health, and your vet’s advice as you consider changes to your pet’s diet.

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Deborah Myers EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kim Justen STAFF WRITERS Cynthia Alex | Aspen Anderson Tonya Landon Foxi LeFierce | April A. Northstrom Sarah Tyler CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Pamela Hart Livi Heise Shannon Hines, DVM Temma Martin Rachel Walton, DVM DESIGNER Kim Justen PHOTOGRAPHER Dawn McBride CIRCULATION Lane Pellinger, Circulation Manager Available at Smith’s Grocery Store racks & all Beans and Brews locations.

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Pet Food Labels 04 Understanding

By Rachel Walton, DVM Best Friends NKUT Spring

08 Super Adoption

16 18

By Temma Martin

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Will the Real Kitten Please Stand Up

By Cynthia Alex

12 14

Making Sense of Food Labels

By Aspen Anderson

Our Unexpected Heroes

By Sarah Tyler

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Is Your Cat a Picky Eater?

By Shannon Hines, DVM

Caring for Your Pets After You’re Gone

By Pamela Hart

A Saving Grace for Cancer Care ketogenic diets for dogs

By April Northstrom

ACCOUNTING Richard Beamer PICM Disclaimer: All reader submissions and photos are voluntarily submitted without expectation of compensation.

All opinions of the authors in this Magazine are those of the writer or contributor and are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. The publisher has not confirmed the accuracy of information contained in the articles. PICM reserves the right to edit, alter, or modify the submitted article to the extent in which we deem necessary.

A RESCUE PLEA: Pets In The City Magazine is dedicated to and encourages rescuing companion animals of all types. There are thousands of animals in Utah and across our nation needing a forever home. If you are interested in rescuing a companion animal, there are over 100 animal rescues in Utah. A good resource is petfinder.com, a nationwide database for companion animals of all types.

A rescued animal can be rewarding and lead to a forever grateful love.

The Wonderful World of Vizslas 22 By Livi Heise

Pets In The City Magazine © 2017 is an independent, free monthly magazine published by PICM Publishing. For information regarding Pets in the City Magazine, visit www.petsinthecitymagazine.com

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Any and all articles in Pets in the City Magazine are submitted for reading enjoyment only. Please consult a professional and make wise personal decisions regarding health and safety issues of pets and family.

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Ask Stetson By Tonya Landon

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Understanding Pet Food Labels Rachel Walton, DVM

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any pet owners can become overwhelmed when choosing a diet for their pet. The choices are numerous, and pet food marketing can be confusing.

Each manufacturer claims their product offers superior nutrition. To find the best food possible for their pet, most owners rely on pet food labels to make their decision.

However, understanding pet food labels is challenging. Unlike labels on food for human consumption, pet food labels do not provide detailed nutritional information and are often misunderstood.

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The information on pet food labels falls into three general categories: required information, prohibited information, and optional information (for example, promotional statements and graphics). These categories are provided by an organization called the Association of American Feed Control Officials, or AAFCO. This is a nongovernmental entity that provides annual guidelines for assessing pet foods. They are not a regulatory body and have no ability to monitor or endorse specific foods.

It is up to the individual pet food manufacturer to conform to local, state, and federal laws.

Nutrients are typically listed by minimum and maximum and are determined by chemical analysis. The amount of a nutrient in a product is not the same as the quality of the nutrient in the product. Some nutrients (for example, glucosamine) are added primarily for marketing effect.

AAFCO requires the following components to be included on a pet food label:

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The brand and product name, a unique identifier to 4 | PETS IN THE CITY

distinguish it from other products on the market.

What species the product is for. This can be simply a photo of a dog or cat.

Net quantity, meaning how much food is in the container.

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Guaranteed analysis or the amount of specific nutrients in the product. The only required nutrients are crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, and moisture. Companies may voluntarily include other nutrients. Reputable pet food companies are willing to share full nutritional profiles of their diets, rather than just the guaranteed analysis.

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The ingredient list must be in descending order of weight of raw materials. The first ingredient accounts for the most weight in the product and the last ingredient accounts for the least.

The ingredient list does not represent the quality or digestibility of an ingredient. Variations in manufacturing processes and standards, along with storage and product handling, will impact diet digestibility and the bioavailability of nutrients in an ingredient. The “whole chicken” listed as the first ingredient in a diet may not provide better nutrition than the “chicken byproduct meal” that is the first ingredient in a competitor’s diet. AAFCO regulations provide a list of approved ingredients and their definitions.

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Byproducts are a controversial ingredient for many pet owners.

Essentially, a byproduct is what is left over after the intended product has been made. In the case of pet feeds, this is often the materials left over after processing human foods (for example, animal organs). Byproducts are not unsafe and are not lacking in nutrition.

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The nutritional adequacy statement is possibly the most important piece of information on the label. It specifies what type of pet and what stage of life the food is suited for. This is determined either by computer formulation or animal feeding trials. Feeding trials involve feeding the diet to animals for a designated period. They give basic information on the longerterm acceptance of a diet, effects on the animal (stool quality, skin and hair coat quality), and reveal any glaring adverse ingredient or nutrient interactions. Feeding trials involve more time and effort than a computer formulation. A company who is willing to undertake a feeding trial for their diet shows their commitment to a quality product.

“Complete” means the product contains all the nutrients required.

“Balanced” means the nutrients are present in the correct ratios.

The life stages recognized by AAFCO are gestation/lactation (pregnant or nursing animals), growth (puppies and kittens), maintenance (adult dogs), and all life stages (all of the above). If a product is listed as balanced and complete for all life stages, it must provide sufficient nutrition for pregnant or nursing animals, puppies and kittens, as well as adult animals. The nutrition requirements of pregnant and growing animals are naturally greater than those of a fully-grown animal. A diet designed purely for adult dogs may not meet the greater nutritional needs of a growing puppy. Conversely, an all life-stages diet may not be the best choice for an overweight dog, as it will likely contain more calories than needed.

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Feeding directions are required for any food that claims to be complete and balanced. However, nutrition is not a precise science, so adjustments to the directions may need to be made for

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an individual pet. Your veterinarian can help you determine how much of a food to feed your pet based on your pet’s health, weight, and the calorie content of the diet.

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Calorie content should also be listed in terms of kilocalories per cup or ounce, can, or another familiar unit. Diets labelled as “light” must meet certain calorie reductions compared to a standard diet. Terms such as “reduced calorie” or “weight control” may be reduced in calories but do not need to meet certain restrictions.

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Finally, a pet food label must include the name and address of the manufacturer or distributor.

Any other information on a pet food label would fall in the optional category. Much of this information is marketing and appeals to the emotions of the pet owner. Terms such as “human-grade” and “premium” have no regulatory definition. “Natural” refers to how ingredients are derived and “organic” refers to agricultural practices.

None of these terms represent the nutritional adequacy of the ingredients or the finished product.

The quality of a pet food cannot be determined simply by reading the label, especially the ingredient list alone. When choosing a food for your pet, it is important to consider the manufacturer’s reputation and experience, as well as their investment in clinical trials and research for their products. A full time veterinary nutritionist employed by the company is important. Other factors, including cost, availability, and your subjective impression of how your pet is doing on the product, should also play a role in the decision.

For more detailed information on pet food labels, visit talkspetfood.aafco.org.

Rachel Walton is the co-managing DVM at University Veterinary Hospital and Diagnostic Center. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Colorado State University in 2007.

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Best Friends NKUT Spring Super Adoption save the date – May 4-5

By Temma Martin

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pring is finally here, and it’s a perfect time to adopt a new furry friend. A wonderful wagger or perfect purrer will be super excited to meet you, May 4 and 5 at the Best Friends NKUT Super Adoption, presented by BOBS from Skechers®.

Hours are Friday, May 4, noon – 7 p.m. and Saturday, May 5, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Parking and admission are free.

This Spring Super Adoption will be the third event in the new location at the Legacy Events Center in Davis County. It’s incredibly convenient to get to, just off I-15 (Lagoon Exit) and Highway 89. There’s a nearby FrontRunner stop at Farmington Station, and UTA is pet friendly. This beautiful space has proven very successful in helping pets get adopted over the last year! And during the two 2017 Super Adoptions, more than a thousand animals’ lives were saved through adoption and rescue, just at those two events!

The Legacy Event Center is only about 15 minutes from downtown SLC and there’s a Petco nearby for essential supplies for your new pet. This past year is the first time in nearly 20 years that the event has been held outside of Salt Lake City.

Adoption fees start at $25 for cats and $50 for dogs and are set by individual groups. Each animal is spayed/neutered, vaccinated and most 8 | PETS IN THE CITY

are microchipped.

Beyond all the adorable adoptables this weekend, there will be a variety of additional vendors, services and activities, and fun people of all ages.

Visitors can expect to have a great time, and to meet hundreds of cute adoptable cats, dogs and rabbits. Each participating rescue group and shelter at the event has its own adoption application, interview process and adoption fee structure. Potential adopters should come prepared with a valid form of identification and payment. If you’re a renter, it’s a good idea to have a letter from your landlord stating that you are allowed to have a pet. Well-behaved and socialized dogs on fixed leashes and under adult control are welcome in all areas except the cat building. Meet-andgreet-areas will be staffed by volunteers and specialists who can help with introductions.

As many as two dozen NKUT coalition shelters and rescue groups will be bringing animals for adoption from all over the state. Animals will come from as far north as Weber and Davis Counties, and from as far south as Kanab – an amazing assortment of nearly 700 dogs, cats, puppies and kittens of every breed, mix, age, color and size. The goal is to save at least 500 lives through adoption and rescue during the event.

Continuing the momentum of the statewide No-Kill Utah (NKUT) campaign, launched in the spring of 2014, pet lovers from throughout northern Utah will flock to Farmington for this bi-annual event held for its 19th year by Best Friends Animal Society. Each Super Adoption places an average of 400 animals in forever homes and draws between 5,000 and 7,000 potential pet parents.

Don’t miss this event that represents a key element in the effort to make Utah a no-kill state by 2019. It’s fun for the whole family, and who knows, by the time you return home, your family may even have grown by one… or two!

Temma Martin is a public relations specialist for Best Friends Animal Society, a national animal welfare organization dedicated exclusively to ending the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters. Best Friends runs the nation’s largest no-kill sanctuary for companion animals, as well as programs in partnership with rescue groups and shelters.

PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM

COOPER’S CORNER

Will the Real Kitten Please Stand Up

By Cynthia Alex

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hen you hear the word “bunny,” people immediately think of a baby rabbit. This isn’t incorrect, but bunny is actually just an affectionate nickname for rabbits.

Believe it or not, the correct name for a baby rabbit is kitten. Ironically, spring is the time of year referred to as “kitten season,” referring to cats, not rabbits.

During this time, shelters and rescue groups are flooded with homeless kittens highlighting the importance of spaying and neutering cats. The same is true for rabbits. Rabbits are the third most surrendered animal in shelters across the nation behind cats and dogs. With surrenders so high, and their reproductive rates notoriously high, it’s important to get your rabbit spayed or neutered.

It’s very difficult to identify a rabbit’s gender, especially if they are young, so it is wise to spay or neuter your rabbit prior to puberty (4-6 months of age). It’s safe to spay or neuter a rabbit up to six years of age, but you don’t want to delay if you have multiple rabbits. It is very difficult to tell if a rabbit is pregnant, and the gestation time is only 31 days or so. Depending on the size of your rabbit, they can have up to 13 kits. After a rabbit gives birth, she can become pregnant again in 72 hours!

Spaying or neutering your rabbit helps them live a healthier and longer life. Female rabbits have an 80% chance of developing uterine cancer if not spayed, and it is usually fatal. Unspayed females will experience pseudopregnancy which is a stressful process of nest building, milk production and aggressive protection of territory. This can make them difficult to handle during this time, and can progress to decreased appetite and gastrointestinal problems.

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If you know your rabbits are the same sex and aren’t worried about reproduction, removing the urge to mate will prevent unpleasant and destructive behavior like chewing, digging, biting, circling, lunging and growling. They will spray urine to mark their territory, making it harder from them to be litter box trained. Spayed and neutered rabbits may still mount each other to show dominance, but unaltered rabbits mounting can lead to fights and injuries to one or both rabbits.

Rabbits are extremely social, and need the companionship of a person, or better yet another animal. But, hormones in unaltered rabbits can make bonding with other rabbits or animals more difficult and unsafe.

It’s crucial to find an experienced veterinarian for your rabbit’s surgery.

Rabbits are considered exotic pets, and extra care needs to be taken during and after surgery. Ask a veterinarian how many rabbit spay or neuter procedures have they done. Unlike spaying or neutering a dog or cat, food and water shouldn’t be withheld prior to the surgery to prevent them from throwing up. Rabbits don’t throw up, and should never have an empty digestive tract. Spaying and neutering a rabbit can be more expensive than a dog or cat, but many areas do have low-cost clinics.

Spaying or neutering your rabbit won’t adversely affect your rabbit’s personality. In fact, your rabbit will be calmer, more dependable and make a better companion. It will also limit the number of companions you have to the number you want to have.

Cynthia Alex has been a volunteer for the Humane Society of Utah for 23 years as an advocate for ending pet overpopulation.

During that time she learned more, and became passionate about rabbits, adopting her first pair 22 years ago. She is married with two grown children, and would be an empty nester, except for their precious house rabbits, Ziggy, Lucy, Cooper and Lily.

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Making Sense of Food Labels

By Aspen Anderson

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Moisture: When considering the important question of how much fat, fiber, and protein is in a food, it is crucial that you also look at the word moisture a little lower down the label. Dry food has very little moisture (usually around 10%) so the numbers on the protein and fat and such will read higher than canned or raw food, which can be up to 80% moisture or more. In order to accurately compare those numbers, you have to remove the moisture content and calculate on a dry-matter basis to get consistent numbers across the board.

For example, let’s look at two products: the local raw Steve’s Real Food Turkey, with 74% moisture, and a dry food called Acana Grasslands, with 12% moisture. The label on the bag of Steve’s said it was 14.6% protein, while the Acana read 33% protein. But if you remove the moisture and calculate on a dry matter basis, the Steve’s is actually 56.15% protein while the Acana is 37.5%. So the label reads the protein content of Steve’s much lower than Acana, but there is actually a much higher amount in the food. A more detailed explanation can be found on DogFoodAdvisor.com, and a calculator is available at www.petpeoplestores.com/dry-matter-calculator.html.

The Salt Divide: The last thing to mention is what is called the “salt divide.” Most ingredient labels have salt on the panel, and by law, salt cannot be more than 1% of the food. So that means that when you look at the ingredient list, anything lower on the list makes up less than 1% of the food. So if the packaging raves about the blueberries in the food for their antioxidant benefits, or that it is a great source of probiotics or glucosamine, check that salt divide. If it falls after salt in the list, it’s less than 1%. You would be shocked how often something touted on the label for its amazing health benefits is actually less than 1% of the food.

e all want to make good food choices for our pets.

When we stop by our local pet boutique or big box pet store, we look at cost, convenience, and ingredients to make the best decision we can. For most people, that includes picking up a bag of dog food, turning it over, and reading the ingredient list. But if you don’t know what you are looking for, a lot can slip through the cracks, and you may pick something for your pet that may not have been exactly what you wanted for them. Here are some things to know when reading an ingredient list at your local store: Ingredients are listed by weight. But there are two things to know about this. First, if the first ingredient (or two, or three) is meat, be aware that they are weighing the meat before

that can be parts of the animal that your pet wouldn’t normally eat, like the intestines, or that have little nutritional value, like beaks, feathers, and feet.

Armed with this knowledge, you can better make educated decisions about the foods you are feeding your pets, and avoid the common pitfalls and marketing strategies that try to convince you your pet food is healthier than it actually is. Good luck out there! processing, not after. This means that they are weighing a wet food (the meat) before the moisture and a good percentage of that weight has been removed. A good rule is that you want at least the first three ingredients to be meat-based to help counter this trick. Another thing to know about this is that pet food manufacturers will break up ingredients into pieces to make the meat appear higher on the list. If you see “pea protein” “pea powder” “pea fiber” in multiples on the ingredient list, it’s likely there are more peas than meat in the food.

Meal vs. meat vs. byproducts: If it is a meal, they are weighing the meat dry, but beware. There are no standards that can clarify the quality of the meal, so it could be good, delicious chicken breast or it could be rendered meat not fit for human consumption and obtained by ways other than slaughter (animals killed by disease, roadkill, etc.). When the label says meal, there’s no way to know the quality of the meat used to make the meal. And when it says byproducts, PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM

Aspen Anderson is the owner of Desert Raw Holistic Pet. Her mission is to improve the lives and health of pets through nutrition. Find her at desertraw.com.

ANIMALS IN THE NEWS

Our Unexpected Heroes tank. Yang Yun had entered a free-diving contest that was taking place in the whale’s tank. With the water at a chilly arctic temperature, her leg muscles locked up when she was attempting to resurface. Unable to swim, and crippled by cramps, she was quickly running out of air, and water pressure was actually causing her to sink as well. Mila gently grabbed hold of one of Yang’s legs and thrust her back to the surface. Yang had no injuries and owes her life to the gentle whale.

By Sarah Tyler

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ogs have always been regarded as man’s best friend. But over the years, other species have thrown their hats in the ring, vying for that top spot. Dogs have their fair share of heroism to be proud of too, but it’s surprising the varying creatures who have stepped in to help in crisis. To be fair, I’m not talking about the everyday heroes, like service animals who save lives every day, or police dogs, bomb dogs, etc. I’m talking about pets and strays who take on the unthinkable task and make a difference.

“Winnie the Wonder Cat” as her owner now calls her, saved her family from carbon monoxide poisoning. While they were sleeping, a leak had seeped out into the home, possibly from a faulty sump pump in their basement. Winnie recognized what was happening and woke her owners by meowing and scratching at them – she’s not normally a scratcher. Cathy Keesling, the cat’s owner, was barely aware enough to call 911, and when police got to the door, she was delusional and her 14 year old son was passed out in the hallway. “Even if the cat had waited another five minutes, the outcome would have been horrible. I think it would probably have been a coroner case for sure,” said Deputy Landond Dean.

Khan the Doberman Pinscher saved his owners’ toddler daughter from a poisonous snake. Adopted by the family just four days prior, Khan was already repaying their kindness. The little girl was playing outside in the garden near a King Brown Snake, which happens to be one of the most venomous snakes in the world. Khan snarled and growled at the snake and tried to herd the little girl away from danger but she wouldn’t budge. So, with no other option, he grabbed her by the diaper and tossed her away from the snake, taking a bite on his paw from the snake in the process.

Khan received treatment and has made a full recovery, forever endearing himself with his loving family for saving their precious daughter.

Mila the Beluga Whale saved a free-diver who was swimming in her 14 | PETS IN THE CITY

Willie the Quaker Parrot saved two year-old Hannah Kuusk’s life. His owner, the babysitter, had made a pop-tart for the little girl, set it on the table to cool and gone to the bathroom. While Megan Howard was in the bathroom, her bird Willie began screeching out, “Mama! Baby! Mama!

Baby!” Megan ran back to find Hannah had taken the pop-tart and was choking on it, her face a telling shade of blue. Hannah performed the Heimlich maneuver and saved her life, but had Willie not alerted her to the danger, the story could have ended differently. Willie was awarded the local Red Cross Chapter’s Animal Lifesaver Award.

Fiona Boyd, an experienced rancher and farmer, was on her family farm when she heard the cries of a young calf that had become separated from its mother. She went out to help and was planning on placing the calf and its mother in the same shed together, when the mother cow finally recognized the calf’s distress calls. It charged Fiona, knocking her to the ground and then rolling on top of her and began to attack her again. Fiona rolled herself into a ball to protect herself as best she could when she saw her 15 year-old chestnut mare, Kerry, start kicking animatedly at the cow, separating it from Fiona and giving her a chance to crawl away under the electric fence.

Once she was to safety, Kerry stopped her barrage against the stampeding cow. Fiona was able to get to a hospital and only suffered relatively minor wounds, thanks to Kerry.

Charlie the therapy kangaroo is a Utah local. Though he did not directly save a life, Charlie has changed and impacted many lives through his therapy work at William E. Christoffersen Salt Lake Veterans Home since March 2015. His presence helps the veterans to stay positive, reduce antidepressant prescription use, lower blood pressure and unite families.

“Oftentimes the grandkids won’t come in this building because of the way grandpa acts, or because he has an oxygen machine or there are people they don’t know,” Noralyn Kahn, an administrator at the home said. “But they come and see Charlie and they are always so happy.” He was honored as the Red Cross Animal Hero of the Year, 2016.

So, it’s pretty safe to say that animals understand a lot more than we give them credit for, and not only dogs can be heroes, though they’ve certainly earned that title. All animals have the propensity for greatness and a capacity for selflessness and love. Our pets are amazing, and love us with their entire beings. Let’s make sure we’re returning the favor and being their heroes every day.

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EXPERT’S ADVICE

Is Your Cat a Picky Eater?

By Shannon Hines, DVM

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e all know how picky cats can be. They can be picky about litter, litterboxes, beds, toys, favorite napping spots, even the people they like. And when it comes to food, it can be a bit frustrating. Especially since good cat food isn’t cheap and we all want to be able to provide our feline friends with something they like.

So if you think your cat is being picky, first take some time to evaluate.

Is it a recent change or new pattern? How long has it been going on? Is it only about certain foods or is it to all food in general? It may be hard to distinguish between being a picky eater or a decrease in appetite.

If decreased appetite is suspected, it is important to have it checked out by a veterinarian. Conditions such as infections, parasites, heart, kidney or liver disease are just a few that may lead to lack of appetite. Any type of gastric upset involving vomiting, diarrhea or constipation may contribute.

Vomiting may be from something as simple as hairballs, or eating too much food at once, but it’s best to make sure it’s nothing more serious.

Another, sometimes overlooked cause may involve the mouth itself.

Dental disease is unfortunately quite common in our domestic cats today.

Gingivitis, stomatitis, cavities, abscessed teeth, lodged foreign bodies such as foxtails or thread can all wreak havoc. These may affect the appetite due to the nature of the illness, mechanical issues or pain. Most of us can sympathize with trying to eat or drink while dealing with a toothache.

Since cats are very good at hiding infirmaries, symptoms may not always be obvious right away.

Other possible causes for decreased food intake may be environmental or social.

Concerns with access to food dishes, types, shapes, location and number of dishes may be a factor. Some cats eat fast, others prefer to take their time. Is there another cat or dog that interferes or intimidates? Has there been any other household upheaval? Cats can be 16 | PETS IN THE CITY

example of being aloof.

But as long as there are no unaddressed health issues, your cat is maintaining its normal activity level and body condition, there is usually no reason to worry. Being finicky is just another one of those traits we all love about cats.

Shannon Hines DVM is the owner of Orchard Animal Clinic, specializing in TNR, low cost cat spays, neuters, dentals, feral/ community cat care and acupuncture, as well as Orchard Animal Outreach, a nonprofit dedicated to providing veterinary care for homeless animals, sick or injured shelter animals and hospice services. Orchardanimaloutreach.org.

greatly affected by even seemingly small changes in routine.

If all of these have been considered, ruled out or taken care of, then there is the issue of the food itself.

The cat food industry has come a long way in addressing nutritional issues, and there are many excellent options for healthy, nutritious cat food, in the form of fresh or canned, but many cat owners are stuck with cats that will only eat dry food. Eating habits are set early. It used to be thought that to prevent a cat from becoming a picky eater, feed it the same dry food for life.

I have found the opposite to be true. I recommend feeding kittens a variety of foods, including fresh, canned, ground, shreds, good quality dry foods of varying shapes, sizes and textures. That way, they are more willing to eat a variety of foods later in life.

Kittens learn from watching their mother. She teaches them how to hunt and what to eat. Kittens raised in isolation or weaned too early, may not have the benefit of early teachings and are at the mercy of whatever was fed. If fed strictly dry food, quite often that is all a cat will eat for the rest of its life. We really have no way of knowing if this is purely due to habit or possibly some sort of carbohydrate addiction. It may even be hard to get a cat to switch up to a grain free dry food after a lifetime eating what I would consider junk food for cats.

Today, cat food and treats are often coated with all sorts of flavorings to make them more appealing, not necessarily to the cat, but to the people buying it. And we assume if it smells good to us that cats will like it too.

Actually, we have no way of knowing what food tastes like to cats, their tongues are used less for tasting than grooming and lapping water.

Cats do have an exquisite sense of smell, which may play into whether they will eat a certain food or not. Some cats enjoy cat treats, some do not. Being naturally curious, they are usually more than willing to try something new, whether or not they want it again is up to them. They all seem to have different tastes and desires when it comes to food.

It may be that they are simply not hungry and are getting the proper amount and balance of nutrition they need.

Taking treats from a human may be considered a form of engagement that not all cats know how to do, perhaps not having learned the behavior as a kitten, similar to other forms of play. Or it could be that it’s another PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM

ASK AN ANIMAL LAWYER

Caring for Your Pets After You’re Gone

By Pamela Hart, Animal Legal Defense Fund How can I make sure my animals are taken care of after I’m gone?

This is an important question that many people forget to plan for – so good for you for thinking ahead! Companion animals have shorter life spans than we do, so when we look to the future we tend to worry about our lives without them, but what would your furry friend’s life be like without you in it?

As with including animals in a prenuptial agreement to avoid a custody battle if a relationship dissolves, taking the time to include companion animals in your will may not be the happiest subject to contemplate, but it will pay off in the peace of mind you will gain knowing your beloved animal will be cared for if something unexpected happens to you.

Despite everyone’s best intentions, it is advisable not to leave the important issue of your animal’s continued care and well-being to informal verbal agreements with friends and family. Unforeseen conflicts and problems could arise and you will not be around to step in and advocate for your animal. And you do not want your animal to end up at a shelter or pound.The best option is to set up a “pet trust” that specifically designates a person (and successors should the original person become unavailable) who will carry out your wishes – which you can also lay out in the trust agreement – regarding your cherished animal family members. In addition to naming a caregiver, you should designate a trustee to manage the trust. Ideally these will be different people, and you will want to choose them carefully after a conversation to ensure they are willing to carry out your wishes. The trust can provide a certain amount of money to a designated caregiver as well as specific instructions pertaining to exercise, recreation, vet visits, diet, and more. The funds in this trust will not actually belong to your animals, but they will receive the benefit of the money.

In setting up a trust you may also designate a beneficiary to receive the remainder of the funds when the animal dies. For example, many people choose to leave leftover funds to their favorite animal protection organization. Think twice before leaving leftover funds to a person involved with caregiving unless you trust them completely, as it could be incentive to provide less than the highest level of care. Finally, avoid 18 | PETS IN THE CITY

leaving an astronomical sum of money, as this could make your trust more vulnerable to a court challenge by disgruntled family members.

Trusts are the most secure option because merely including this information in your will may not be sufficient. Wills deal primarily with property distribution, and directives beyond who gets what (for example, instructions for your animal’s care) may not be legally enforceable. Wills also typically do not provide for incapacitation in the event your animal needs care during your lifetime. Pet trusts provide an extra layer of security and additional protections.

The good news is that it is relatively easy to set up a worry-free pet trust with the help of an estate planning attorney, although this has not always been the case. Until recently, even if you left money in a charitable trust specifically for your animal’s care, there was the possibility your wishes might not be carried out. In states without pet trust legislation, these trusts were not always honored because animals are considered a type of property in the eyes of the law. So under traditional trusts and estate law, despite our best intentions, there was little we could do to legally guarantee our animal would be cared for if they were to outlive us.

However, this area of law has evolved relatively quickly in response to changing societal norms that regard animals more as family members than property. With the addition of Minnesota in 2016, all 50 states and the District of Columbia now have pet trust laws on their books, which enable people to create legally sanctioned arrangements for the care and maintenance of their animal companions.

Some states have limits on how much money you can leave in a trust for an animal, so it is important to check your state’s specific statute and to consult with an attorney who specializes in estate planning. If you can find an estate planning attorney who has experience with pet trusts, even better! Your local animal rescue or protection organization may be able to provide a referral.

Thank you for asking this question. Your animal is truly lucky to have a person who loves them so much. Here’s to a long future together!

Pamela Hart oversees the Animal Legal Defense Fund Animal Law Program, which supports the next generation of animal lawyers and fosters the growth of animal law in legal practice.

The program collaborates with students, faculty, and school administrations to develop animal law courses and assist in forming Student Animal Legal Defense Fund (SALDF) chapters.

PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM

A Saving Grace for Cancer Care ketogenic diets for dogs

By April Northstrom

K

etogenic diets have long been known to help people (and more recently dogs) with epilepsy. The combination of a high fat content paired with high protein and low carbohydrates means there is a conversion of fats to ketones or short-chain fats which the body can use instead of carbohydrates or sugars. This process induces a healthy metabolic state called ketosis. It is important to clarify that ketoacidosis is a dangerous state while nutritional ketosis is when the body and brain are using ketones as a fuel source safely and efficiently.

The ketogenic diet first gained mainstream popularity in the 1920s as a therapy for children with drug resistant epilepsy and is currently being studied as a therapy for cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), traumatic brain injury (TBI), diabetes, and autism. Now, it’s a popular regime for terminally ill dogs with cancer.

KetoPet Sanctuary is a nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to just that – rescuing and restoring dogs with terminal cancer. Located near Austin, Texas it has implemented the ketogenic principles into an inclusive canine care protocol. According to their website, “KetoPet Sanctuary was founded in 2014 as a program under the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Epigenix Foundation. The sanctuary was started by a group of people with an insatiable passion for helping animals and gave a “forever home” to shelter dogs with cancer, saving them from being euthanized.”

KetoPet claims to cure dog cancer with a combination of a ketogenic diet, metabolic conditioning (strenuous exercise), and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Their facilities offer dogs the highest standard of veterinary and oncology care (surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation), fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) imaging (typically used only with humans), exercise programs, and hyperbaric oxygen chamber treatments (HBOT). It should be noted that KetoPet’s work and results have not been scientifically proven.

The KetoPet Sanctuary stresses, “We don’t use nutrition as our main tool against cancer because we have some sort of ideological leaning towards 20 | PETS IN THE CITY

food as medicine but rather because the nutritional protocol we use is more powerful than any drug currently available. Since there’s no drug at the end of this rainbow, no one has been putting any money into researching this approach – until now.”

Adopting a ketogenic diet can be done to develop a healthier lifestyle and happier pet, especially for those with terminal illness. Raw diets like these can add years to your pet’s life and reduce stress on their digestive system. Ketogenic diets are similar to “raw food” diets in makeup and incorporate high protein raw meat, vegetables and fats. Still, ketogenic dog meals vary depending on the source of information. In researching the correct mix, one recipe called for the following: • Ground beef, fish or poultry, spiced with turmeric, salt substitute • Cottage cheese or ricotta cheese • Raw vegetables • Flax seed • Flax oil or fish oil – you want a dose equivalent to 1000mg of EFA/10lbs Another recipe required a significantly different mix of raw meat including liver, chicken gizzards and red meat (roast). And yet, another, added supplements, vitamins and raw eggs.

If your pet is suffering from cancer or epilepsy and especially has a terminal diagnosis, the ketogenic diet and places like KetoPet are worth exploring. Diligent research and understanding the risks and rewards of an extreme diet plan are necessary in order to keep your pet from further problems like diabetes and pancreatic disorders.

In the meantime, maintaining a healthy diet for your dog or cat that is free of “junk” and filled with proteins, vegetables, fats and carbohydrates is best. Avoiding processed kibbles, canned products and treats is key.

If you want to create a new meal plan for your pet, always contact your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet’s diet.

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The Wonderful World of Vizslas

By Livi Heise, age 11

D

id you know that Vizslas love to be with their people? In fact, if you leave a Vizsla outside, they will wait for you to come out for them. There is an old saying, “If you don’t want a dog that follows you to the toilet all day, then don’t get a Vizsla.” Vizslas are also great hunting dogs, which need to have their tails docked.

Vizslas come from Hungary. They actually almost became extinct following World War I. Luckily, they were brought back from the brink following World War II. They were introduced into America in the 1950s.

Vizslas are so affectionate. They are sometimes called Velcro Vizslas because they attach themselves to their people. They are not good outside dogs, because they do not have thick coats. That is why they also attach themselves to you.

I have a Vizsla named Saige. She is a Lab/Vizsla mix. She is very mellow and calm. Once, an angry child jumped onto her back and she sat up, looked at them, and went to lie down somewhere else. Vizslas are so great with kids. When we first got her, we didn’t even know that Vizslas even existed. When most people ask what breed she is, their next question is, “What’s a vizsla?” That is why more people need to know about the breed.

Vizslas do shed, but they have really short hair that is really easy to clean and vacuum up.

But if you have a light, tan colored couch, you probably won’t be able to see it that much.

Vizslas are great running dogs, as well.

They were bred to be hunting dogs – and you know how hunting dogs are. They sprint so fast! They do need a lot of exercise, though. At a minimum, puppies 22 | PETS IN THE CITY

probably need 1.5 to 2 hours per day. So, if you love to run, a Vizsla will be perfect for you!

They are a medium-sized breed. Grown males go up to 22 to 25 inches, and they usually weigh 50 to 60 pounds. Grown females can weigh 44 to 55 pounds.

Vizslas need training early, though. They can become timid and rambunctious. They need quality time, too, otherwise, they will feel separated. Vizslas have separation anxiety, and they need to be with people. If they are healthy, they can live 12 – 14 years.

Some experiences I have had with Saige are that my grandma loves her! When, we go on vacation, she will always be there to watch Saige.

When we get back, she is so excited to see us! That is just one example of Vizslas being so affectionate.

If you’re thinking of getting a dog, I hope you consider a Vizsla. You will find that they are the PERFECT breed of dog. They will always be there for you when you need them. I hope you are a Vizsla person because Vizslas will always be in your heart, as they are mine.

PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM

BOWTIE

BODHI

MR.

DEWOLF

LEROY JENKINS

RAYNE & RORI

Male / 8 Years Old / Tuxedo Short Hair I’m a big hunk of love. I’m shy at first, but once I get settled, I talk, chirp, and love attention. My ideal home is a quiet adult-only home with another cat or dog, but I would also do fine with older, patient kids. Please email utahadoptions@bestfriends.org.

Male / 14 Years Old / Domestic Short Hair I’ve been around other cats. I stick to myself mostly but am friendly.

I get around well despite my limited vision, but have special needs, including a special diet and blood pressure medication. Email utahadoptions@bestfriends.org to meet me.

Male / 10 Years Old / Tuxedo Medium Hair Every senior deserves a loving companion, and that’s me! I’d love to be your new snuggle buddy. I’m an easy going and mellow friend. I require a special diet. Email utahadoptions@ bestfriends.org to meet me.

CALVIN

Male / 6 Years Old / Domestic Short Hair I’m looking for my special person for me to love and protect. I’m very affectionate, and good with other dogs and cats, but I’d prefer all the attention. I enjoy toys and sleeping at your feet. For more information, visit Paws for Life Utah at pflu.org.

TROUBADOUR

Female / 3 Years Old / Short Hair People often confuse me with the Cadbury Bunny because we look alike, but a lot sweeter! Nothing makes me happier than soft pets on my nose, and a family to love me. Call the Humane Society of Utah, 801-261-2919, ext. 295, for more information.

24 | PETS IN THE CITY

Female / 9 Years Old / Pit Bull Mix I spent much of my life alone, but that only made me want to share love even more.

I love everyone, and have perfected my cuddling skills. I’m low to medium energy, and love walks or lounging. I do well if left in the house alone. I do well around other dogs, but am not good with cats. Apply to meet me today at www.rescuerovers.org.

Male / 9 Years Old / Staffordshire Terrier Mix I like hanging out, and going for walks or a ride. I’m kennel and house trained.

I’m good with older kids. I haven’t been socialized with other dogs, and don’t understand how to play or take body language clues, so a home where I’m the only animal will be best. Apply to meet me today at www.rescuerovers.org.

Females / Adult / Domestic Medium Hair I can be a little shy but once I know you, I’ll follow you everywhere. My favorite places to sit are somewhere high and comfy, like the back of the sofa, or somewhere I can soak up the sunshine. My sister Rory is a real talker and will greet you with a story. I’ve never been without her so we’ll need to be adopted together. She’s the more adventurous of us and loves to wander and find new places to climb and hide.

To meet us, contact CAWS at caws.org.

ELIZA

Female / 6 Years Old / Chihuahua I’m a little nervous with strangers, but once comfortable, I enjoy being part of the family. I had a shattered pelvis but I’m doing great now. I will need regular pain medication and possibly rehab; I need to be crated to avoid re-injury when I’m alone.

To meet us, contact CAWS at caws.org.

BUNNY

Female / 3 Years Old / Short Hair I’m looking for a special person who loves, and is comfortable with, rabbits. I’m a fun, feisty gal who needs someone who gives me lots of attention. Call the Humane Society of Utah, 801-261-2919, ext. 295, for more information.

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JOHNNY CASTLE

Male / 10 Year Old / Chihuahua I love to dance around on my back legs. I’m okay with other little dogs but haven’t really learned to play with them. I spent my life outside, so I’m still working on potty training. I wear a belly band inside just in case. I love to bark at the cat but am not aggressive. Apply to meet me today at www.rescuerovers.org.

VERONA

Female / Adult / Domestic Short Hair I have the most exotic eyes and a unique personality to match. I was brought to Utah after Hurricane Harvey. I like all people and enjoy getting love while lying next to you, but I don’t like to be held. Dogs are fine with me as long as they aren’t the pestering type.

To meet me, go to caws.org.

SAGE

Female / 4 Years Old / Pit Bull Mix I’m pretty laid back, but I will be there for when you want someone to talk to. I love attention and petting, but it’s okay when you are doing something else. I know basic commands, walk well on a leash, and am house and crate trained.

Visit me at Salt Lake County Animal Services or email kpacker@slco.org.

BOOTSTRAP BILL

Male / 1 Year Old / Domestic Short Hair I’m an adorable boy who loves to play and explore. I’m blind in one eye, but it doesn’t slow me down one bit! I get along well with other cats and love people. Call Nuzzles & Co (435-608-1424) for more information.

JAZY

Female / 3 Years Old / Rex What? Did I hear you say you aren’t familiar with a Rex rabbit? We have very short, velvety, fur and are easy to care for. I’m not good in cold weather, but you’d want me living inside the house with you anyway. Call the Humane Society of Utah, 801-261-2919, ext. 295, for more information.

CINNA

Female / 2 Years Old / Lab Mix I enjoy car rides and would like an active family. I would ideally be the only pet, but am good with other dogs my size or larger.

No small dogs or young kids for me. I love my people and am wary of strangers. I do need some help with basic training and manners. To meet me, go to caws.org.

TAYLOR

Female / 4 Years Old / Domestic Short Hair I’m a relaxed and friendly cat who enjoys the company of people. I like lounging and napping in the sunshine and would prefer to be the only pet in my home. I would be happiest in a peaceful home. Call Nuzzles & Co (435-649-5441) for more information.

BONGO

Male / 2 Years Old / Cattle Dog Mix I’m need someone who likes to go hiking and camping and give me one adventure after another! I love to play with other dogs and pretty much ignore cats. Call Nuzzles & Co (435-649-5441) for more information.

HONEY

LUCKY

Male / 6 Years Old / German Shepherd Mix I’m super cuddly, 70 pounds of love who is happy to hike and bike, or cuddle on the couch. As long as I’m by your side, I’m the happiest dog. For more information, visit Paws for Life Utah at pflu.org.

Female / 7 years old / Domestic Short Hair I love laps and sunbathing. I get along with other cats but would do best in a quieter home. I am a Century Club Cat; if you adopt me, I get free vaccines for life, and a free FELV/FIV test. Visit me at Salt Lake County Animal Services or email Mallred@slco.org for more information.

ACE

AVA

Male / 13 Years Old / Pit Bull Mix I’m active and playful and good with other dogs.

I’ve had a dental and the vet says I am very healthy. I’m a very good companion and just want to be by your side. For more information, visit Paws for Life Utah at pflu.org.

26 | PETS IN THE CITY

Female / 1 Year Old / Yellow Lab Mix I’m an energetic girl who loves to play. I play with other dogs and seem to ignore cats. I’m learning some basic manners but I’m intelligent and eager to please. Call Nuzzles & Co (435-649-5441) for more information.

PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM

Q. I’ve rescued an adult dog that needs obedience training. As I look around for a class, what should I look for?

What makes a great obedience class versus just average? – Kathleen A. Congratulations on adopting an adult dog to add to your family! Did you know that when my human mom adopted me at a year and a half old from the shelter, I only knew how to sit? In fact, the majority of dogs in the shelters don’t know all their obedience commands. Can you guess which two commands a lot of dogs in shelters know? Sit and Shake.

If more dogs knew how to walk nicely on a leash, don’t jump up, lie down, stay and come when called, they would have been easier to be around in their homes and there would have been less of a chance of them ending up in a shelter. Obedience training is very important to teach all dogs. It is the beginning of communication between you and your dog.

Here is what to look for in a group class: Instructor/Student Ratio. Look for a class that has a good student to instructor ratio. One instructor for 8 to 10 students is normal for most basic obedience classes. If you want more one on one help from the instructor, look for a class that is semi-private (4 to 6 students) or a class that has teacher aids.

Environment and Safety. The training area should be clean, clutter free and well lit. The atmosphere should be light and friendly and you should feel safe for yourself and your dog.

Training Style. There are many ways to train a dog as every dog learns differently. Call the instructors beforehand and ask what method they teach by, (positive, balanced, aversive). For rewards do they use verbal, treats, toys or touch? Do they introduce distractions during training? The instructor should know how to deal with different breeds and temperaments in class (both dog and human).

Audit a Class. Ask to come and sit in on a class before signing up (without your dog). This way you can see how the instructor teaches and handles the dogs and humans in class.

Remember, no matter what class you join, you have to do your homework. Dogs can’t teach themselves obedience commands. Practice daily, even after the class has ended.

Tonya Landon is a professional dog trainer with Diamonds in the Ruff. She rescued and trained Stetson, a small terrier with aggression issues, to be cast in the title role of the 2012 Stetson, Street Dog of Park City, a short film adapted from the children’s book written by Jeanine Heil.

If you have questions for Stetson, please email askstetson@gmail.com

Share your pet photos! Email your high-resolution photo & your pet’s name to info@petsinthecitymagazine.com.

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Shammy & Tigger Hollie, Cha

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Stella e

Jasmin

Toby & Toba

Fluffy

Loki

Max 28 | PETS IN THE CITY

Drift

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Carter

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30 | PETS IN THE CITY

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