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MEET CHESTER THE SEAFARING CAT TIPS FOR MAKING SUMMER ROAD TRIPS SAFE WITH PETS
FAMILY PET FACING DEATH UNDER ARCHAIC UTAH LAW
BREAK THE LEASH: DON’T TETHER YOUR DOG
RESCUE A NEW FRIEND!
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’ve always wanted a parrot. Now, as a woman who is enjoying a mostly empty nest since my son graduated high school last month, I know I would be a horrible parrot parent. I figured that out about the time I learned how long birds can live. I know myself well enough to know I can’t commit to a pet for 25+ years. And since they like consistency, I’d feel horrible leaving them all the time. So I’m the first person to admit I know nothing about birds. I had no idea they needed direct light, and that putting them in front of a window wouldn’t give them what they need. Emily Strong’s article opened my eyes. Not just to their needs, but to the many ways you can help your bird get the sun they need. Since I’m planning a trip this summer, April Northstrom’s article on making sure it’s a safe one for your pets was a great reminder for me. My cats will have a much safer – and happier – trip. It should go without saying, but as a gentle reminder, cars get much hotter than it is outside, so keep your pets with you, or at home. If it’s too hot for you in the car, it’s too hot for your pets. Here’s hoping you and your pets all enjoy this summer. Stay cool!
TABLE OF CONTENTS 06 08
Chester the Seafaring Cat
JUNE 2017 | VOL. 5 NO. 10 PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM
LAST MONTH’S ISSUE
Pet Pheromone Products
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By Rachel Walton, DVM
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Break the Leash: Don’t Tether Your Dogs
by April Northstrom
14
Emotional Support Anmals Provide Comfort By Mona Mistric
16
Family Dog Sentenced to Death Under Archaic Utah Law by Deann Shepherd
17 20
Animal News By Mona Mistric
Ronald McDonald House Charities® Chief PAWSitivity Officer and friend of Suba Bleu
Expert Advice: Behavior Problems in Birds
A Bunny Success Story
Received a Rabbit... Now What?
Extreme Homes for Cats
Dog Park Etiquette
Summer Competitions for Dogs
Top Tips for Making Summer Road Travel Safe with Pets By April Northstrom MAY 2017 | VOL. 5 NO. 9 PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM
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Ask Stetson
26
Let There Be Light!
By Tanya Landon
RESCUE ME!
30
YOUR PETS IN THE CITY PHOTOS
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kim Justen
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Deann Shepherd Emily Strong, CPBC, CPBT-KA Rachel Walton, DVM
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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.
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Chester the Seafaring Cat
appropriate toys with the kitten (not shoelaces), and not to feed him from the table, etc. But Chester went through his own crew training. “We had to get him used to ship life and everything that comes with it,” said Williams. “We started him out in the galley because it’s warm and comforting, and we could keep a closer eye on him. From there, we trained him to walk on a leash. He would get walked at night so he’d get used to that and know it’s okay to walk off the ship.” Chester, who just turned three, doesn’t get to run loose at all ports. There are some that aren’t safe for him, so then he remains onboard the ship, which is larger than many apartments. And when he’s in ports where he can wander, he wears identification. But the ship sails to many of the same ports every year, and the vendors and people around the docks know Chester. “He constantly wears a harness with a tag with his name, the ship’s name and ship’s phone. It’s very clear he’s not a stray.” When it’s getting close to time to leave the port after an extended stay, Chester is kept below deck to ensure he’s onboard when it’s time to go home. “Chester’s really more of a homebody,” says Williams, which I noticed as I went through crew training this winter. He has a preferred bunk – if you choose to sleep there, you need to be willing to share. Although he has the ability to leave the ship, more often than not he’s sitting on a high spot on the ship, keeping watch. He
By Kim Justen
L
ast fall, I took a vacation to Chestertown, Maryland for Downrigging Weekend, the last chance to sail before the ships are prepared for winter, and rigging is removed to be repaired for spring. While I was on the dock, waiting to board the Kalmar Nyckel, a recreation of the 1638 ship that brought the settlers of the New Sweden colony (now Wilmington, Delaware) across the Atlantic, I saw a cat walk off the ship and wander over to the natural area next to the dock like he did it all the time.
photo by Daniel Briggs
photo by Holly Boulanger Collas
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Which he kind of does. Meet Chester, the Kalmar Nyckel cat. The ship’s tradition of having a cat started when a shipwright came in one morning to find a kitten had been born in his toolbox. The kitten, aptly named Toolbox, stayed at the private shipyard where she was born, and took to sailing around with the ship. Toolbox eventually retired from sea life (there was a retirement party for her), and went to live out her days at the home of Captain Sharon Dounce, Kalmar Nyckel port captain. The tradition of the ship’s cat stuck, and today the ship has Chester. “When Chester came to us, he was a tiny, tiny little ball of fluff,” says Marcie Williams, crew member of the Kalmar Nyckel and Chester’s part-time caretaker. A past crew member found the gray kitten in her barn. He needed a home and a family, and found both on the ship. “Barn cats make great ship cats because they have that independence to them, and the sturdiness to them, which you really need if you’re going to be sailing on a tall ship your whole life,” says Williams. “Chester’s been really fantastic.” The crew was trained from the beginning about how to play – or more importantly, not play – with Chester. If you’re changing shifts at 4 a.m., you don’t want to wake people up because a cat just sliced your ankle while attacking your shoelace. So crew learned about
photo by Holly Boulanger Collas
photo by Holly Boulanger Collas
wanders the fenced-in Kalmar Nyckel Foundation shipyard when the ship is docked in Wilmington, and without being asked, crew keep an eye on him. He has a life vest in case of emergencies. Boat checks happen regularly throughout the day to make sure there are no emergency situations happening anywhere on the boat, where calling 911 isn’t an option. But part of the boat check is making sure Chester’s water bowl is clean and full, he has kibble, and his litter box is cleaned out. How many cats do you know who have hourly litter box cleaning service? “He loves living on the ship. He goes for regular vet visits. He gets a lot of love. We have a lot of people coming through the Kalmar Nyckel. He has a really large family and support system through the crew, looking out for him. He’s got a lot of people taking care of him. He’s a crew member and you look out for your crew members.” Even though he has the ability to go far, Chester stays pretty close to the ship. When the ship is sailing with the public, like the sail I took in Chestertown, he has free rein. Sometimes he’s below deck and sometimes he’s up on deck sleeping. He likes the attention he gets, and is great with the kids on educational sails, but he has the ability to go below deck, which isn’t open to the public, if he wants alone time. “For the majority of [three hour] day sails, he’s on the ship,” says Williams. “He loves to be there. That’s his home.” JUNE 2017
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ost people know what it’s like to feel stressed. Most pet owners have probably also felt their pet was experiencing stress at some point. Visiting the vet, the neighborhood fireworks show, moving to a new home, or the addition of a new family member can all cause stress for the family pet. Just like people, all pets cope with stress differently. Sometimes it can lead to unwanted behaviors like urine marking or destructiveness. In these situations, a pet’s owner may want to intervene, but may be reluctant to use drugs to treat stress. One therapy you might see on store shelves or pet websites are pheromone products, which have been available in the United States since 2001. Before you try them on your own pet, here is some basic information on what they are and how they work.
WHAT ARE PHEROMONES?
Generally speaking, pheromones are chemical signals used for communication between members of the same species. They serve as a message to the recipient but also to the individual emitting the pheromone. Different species have their own pheromones, meaning a cat cannot detect dog pheromones and vice versa. There are also multiple types of pheromones produced by different areas of the body. These pheromones are associated with different functions such as marking territory, promoting social relationships, or
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sending alarms. Synthetic pheromones have been developed to mimic these naturally occurring chemicals with the goal of influencing behavior. There are various forms including sprays, plug-in diffusers, wipes, and collars.
PHEROMONE PRODUCTS
A common pheromone marking behavior in the cat is facial rubbing, which cats use to mark their territory as safe and secure. Cats who are stressed are less
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likely to mark their territory with facial rubbing and may use scratching or urine marking instead. A specific facial pheromone called F3 has been identified in facial rubbing cats. Synthetic F3 products available include Comfort Zone (over the counter) and Feliway (sold through veterinarians). Another pheromone cats emit is cat appeasing pheromone, which is naturally produced by a mother cat after giving birth. This pheromone helps bond the kittens to their mother and siblings while helping to comfort and calm them. Feliway multi-cat is a product using a synthetic version of this pheromone. Similar to cat appeasing pheromone, dogs also have a pheromone released from the mammary area of a mother dog after the birth of her puppies. This pheromone is a comforting message, signaling security and safety to the puppies. Adaptil (formerly D.A.P, sold through veterinarians) and Comfort Zone are products containing a synthetic copy of this pheromone. Other products use herbal blends or essential oils to stimulate pheromones in the hope of inducing the same calming effects.
WHAT ARE PHEROMONES USED FOR?
Any behavior that is stress- or anxiety-related has the potential to respond to synthetic pheromone products. For example, fear of noises such as thunderstorms or fireworks, separation anxiety, urine marking in cats, tension and conflict between cats in the same home, or stress while traveling, boarding, or being introduced to a new home are all situations that may benefit from pheromones. Most of the published research has been performed on the specific products Feliway and Adaptil and has been funded by the products’ maker. Several studies have shown the products to help soothe stressed pets in certain circumstances. There are also limitations to what pheromones can treat. If a pet has an underlying medical condition, pheromones may not be helpful. Aggression towards people is also unlikely to benefit significantly from pheromones. Before starting
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pheromones, it is always best to consult your veterinarian. Remember, behaviors that are not stress-related will not improve with pheromones. For example, some pets are naturally shy and this behavior may not be related to stress. It is also important to understand that most behavior problems cannot be solved with only one therapy, and this includes pheromones. For the best chance of success, pheromones should be used in conjunction with behavior modification and other therapies.
ARE PHEROMONES SAFE?
Pheromones are natural and safe. They cannot be detected by humans or other species in the home. For example, feline pheromones can be used and not impact dogs or children in the home. Pheromones also avoid the need to medicate the pet directly, and they are also safe to give with most other medications and supplements. In general, pheromones are unlikely to do any harm and they may offer benefits in certain situations. With any persistent behavior problem, it is best to consult with your veterinarian prior to beginning any treatment plan.
Rachel Walton received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Colorado State University in 2007. Sheis currently an associate veterinarian at University Veterinary Hospital and Diagnostic Center. Dr. Walton has two human children, two dogs, two cats, and one amazing husband.
Break the Leash: Don’t Tether Your Dogs By April A. Northstrom
1955 N Redwood Rd, Salt Lake City Phone: (801) 355-7387
I
t s ee m s o bvio u s that tether i ng or chai n i n g a d o g o r any an i m al f o r ex t e n d e d p er i o d s o f t i m e i s a b a d i d e a . H oweve r, it is s til l a severe probl em b e i n g ad d re sse d by an i m al we l f are advo c at e s a c ro s s t h e c o u n t r y. A t e t h e re d do g is one that i s ti ed wi th c h ai n , ro p e o r c abl e t o a st at i o n ar y o b j e ct , u s u a l ly i n a b a c k ya rd .
WHY DO PEOPLE TETHER DOGS? Owners who choose to tether do so for several reasons: •The dog may be an escapee who runs away and doesn’t have a confined yard to keep them safe and away from others. •A landlord doesn’t allow free-roaming pets. They might not allow a dog indoors and won’t install a fence. •The owner’s fence isn’t safe or is damaged and cannot contain the dog. •A pet owner may not realize there are other options – especially if they grew up with a tethered dog. As a reasonable dog owner, you can understand it might be necessary to leash your dogs for a brief time – when guests arrive at your home, when you are doing construction on your backyard, or when other animals come to visit – all instances when it keeps them and you safe. Tethering a dog as a means of living her daily life is not acceptable.
WHAT IS WRONG WITH TETHERING?
Dogs are not meant to be leashed permanently. They are social creatures who need to interact with animals, people and their environment. Long-term tethering can lead to dogs who become aggressive, anxious and neurotic through lack of socialization. The American Veterinary Medical Association has publicly recommended, “Never tether or chain your dog because this can contribute to aggressive behavior.” Tethering is also a physical danger to dogs. If they become tangled it can be choking hazard. Tethering also takes away a dog’s ability to defend itself from attacks by other animals. Tethered dogs are nearly three times more likely to bite, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. The National Canine Research Council reports that one-fourth of fatal dog attacks were committed by tethered dogs.
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP?
If you have concerns about a dog that is in danger, ill or not being taken care of properly, alert your local animal control office. The Humane Society of the United States suggests that if you are concerned about a specific dog who is tethered, you can ask local animal control to pay the owner a visit. Even if the tethering is legal, agents can see if they can help the owner address the problem at its root (i.e. a behavior problem or repeated escapes). It’s also important to be an advocate for animals who are tethered when they cannot speak for themselves. Talk about tethering. Tell your friends, family members and neighbors about it. Be active in the legislative sessions and know about laws that protect animals from cruelty. Our dogs depend on us to protect them, feed them, shelter them and advocate for their needs. If you see animals tethered in a cruel and unnecessary way, know how you can help and keep them from harm. PAGE 12
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EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS PROVIDE COMFORT By Mona Mistric
A
n emotional support animal (ESA) is not a traditional pet, even though she may become part of the family. An ESA is classified as an assistant animal, providing companionship with a therapeutic benefit to an individual with a verifiable mental or psychiatric disability, which has been prescribed by a licensed mental health professional. Different factors can lead to symptoms such as: depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and many more. The ESA is part of the treatment program for this person and is designed to bring comfort by minimizing the negative symptoms of the person’s disability. Studies have found ESAs can help reduce anxiety, lower high blood pressure, and promote physical, emotional, cognitive and social improvement for people with special needs, making a big improvement in the person’s well-being. An ESA can be almost any variety of animal – cats, dogs, mice, rabbits, birds, snakes, rats, ferrets, mini pigs, guinea pigs, hedgehogs, and even miniature horses. They can be any age too – even puppies and kittens. ESAs do not need any specific task-training because their very presence reduces symptoms associated with a person’s disability.
Pets classified as assistant animals get legal protection through the Fair Housing Act and the Air Carrier Access Act. • The Fair Housing Act passed a law in 1988, requiring both public and privately-owned types of housing (that ordinarily restrict pets) to make “reasonable accommodation” for assistant animals. ESAs are allowed in all areas of the premises where persons are normally allowed to go. Also, breed, size, and weight limitations are not applicable to an ESA.
animal assistant patches to help you avoid confrontations. For more information about your legal rights contact the ADA at 800514-0301 (voice) or 800-514-0383 (TTY) or visit www.ada.gov. Also, some state or local governments have laws allowing you to take your ESA into public places. Check with your state and local government agencies to find out what you can legally do in your area.
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• The Air Carrier Access Act passed rules in 1990 prohibiting discrimination of disabled individuals traveling by air. The airlines are required to accommodate a person with an ESA who has a verifiable identification. Airlines cannot charge fees for an ESA accommodating a disabled person. Many colleges and universities have policies for allowing assistance animals in housing. Motels, restaurants, stores, trains, taxis, buses, theatres, parks, beaches, libraries, zoos, etc. are not required to allow your ESA to accompany you. Basically, in these establishments, your ESA has the same rights as other pets. That doesn’t mean these places won’t let you bring your ESA with you; it just means they are not required to by law. Registration of your ESA is not required under federal law. However, a document will make your life easier when obtaining housing or other services. Many landlords and businesses require a properly formatted prescription letter from your mental health provider. The document is not required to explain your disability, only that your disability requires an ESA. There are several online services that sell animal assistant certificates, registration documents and
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OF
UTAH
Family Dog Sentenced to Death Under Archaic Utah Law Humane Society of Utah defends Santaquin Family Dog from Death By Deann Shepherd
A
Santaquin, Utah family dog named Dexter has been sentenced to death under an archaic city ordinance. Dexter, a male 5-year-old Australian Shepherd, escaped the Bray family’s fenced backyard and allegedly bit a teenage girl. According to the police report, “the bite did not break any skin.” The Humane Society of Utah believes a death penalty is an overreaction based on the city ordinance’s broad definition of a vicious dog. Under the Santaquin ordinance, a vicious dog is defined as, “A dog that has bitten, clawed, attacked, chased, harassed, pursued, or worried a person without provocation.” “This overly-broad definition is not in tune with other common ordinances,” said Gene Baierschmidt, HSU executive director. “We believe that this is an overreaction and the city cannot euthanize every dog or cat when it scratches somebody.” The matter is now in the Fourth District Court in an appeal from the Santaquin Justice Court. The parties have agreed to dismiss the criminal action if the city council amends its ordinance at its meeting June 7, 2017. Craig S. Cook, president and general counsel for the Humane Society of Utah has agreed to represent the Bray family in any city council and judicial proceedings, pro bono. “It is hoped that the city council will amend its nineteenth century ordinance to provide its citizens with full due process of law, to provide an acceptable definition of a ‘ vicious’ animal and to further allow alternatives to the present mandatory death sentence,” said Cook. The Humane Society of Utah believes that euthanasia or permanent confinement of the dog are extreme remedies and should be utilized only when the dog has attacked a person or companion animal without justification and has caused serious physical injury or death, or when a qualified behaviorist who has personally evaluated the dog determines
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that the dog poses a substantial risk of such behavior and that no other remedy will make the dog suitable to live safely with people. Furthermore, the Humane Society of Utah advocates that, in lieu of mandatory euthanasia in cases involving no serious injury, the courts in all jurisdictions should give the owner of a domestic pet the following alternatives.
• Evaluation by a certified applied animal behaviorist or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and completion of any training or other treatment as deemed appropriate by that expert. • Spaying or neutering. • Secure, humane confinement in a manner that prevents escape and unsupervised contact with the public, permits the dog adequate exercise and provides protection from the elements. • Direct supervision by an adult 18 years of age or older whenever the dog is on public property. • Restraint on a leash whenever the dog is in public. • Muzzling in public in a manner that prevents the dog from biting people and other animals but does not injure the dog or interfere with her vision or respiration. • Microchipping JUNE 2017
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ANIMAL IN THE NEWS By Mona Mistric
$32,500 DONATED FOR STRAY AND FERAL CATS
Willie Ortiz, a 76 year-old retired welder, has been feeding Hartford, Connecticut stray and feral cats for over twenty years. He drives 22 miles every day in his 1988 Chevy Silverado to drop off food at 16 different locations – to feed about 68 cats. He’s been collecting and selling scrap metal to pay for supplies, food, spaying and neutering, and medication for any cats who are sick. He does not let weather or illness keep him from caring for his cats. Ortiz says the cats come out when they hear the sound of his engine. Kathleen Schlentz, a concerned friend, decided to set up an online GoFundMe page to assist Ortiz with the expenses. The story spread rapidly, even to places as far away as India and Portugal. More than $32,500 was raised for Ortiz and his cats. Thanks to the generosity of cat loving strangers, he’ll be able to care for his furry feline friends for a very long time.
PET RESCUE & ADOPTION ACT: ASSEMBLY BILL 485
On February 14, 2017, in Laguna Beach, California, Social Compassion In Legislation, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization sponsored a new bill – the Pet Rescue and Adoption Act, Assembly Bill 485 authored by District 70 Assembly Member Patrick O’Donnell. “Inhumane breeding facilities are mass-producing animals for sale to the public, while overcrowded shelters euthanize millions of dogs and cats each year,” said O’Donnell. “The Pet Rescue and Adoption Act will allow responsible pet ownership by supporting access to rescues and pet adoptions through pet stores.” Any rabbit, guinea pig, hamster, potbellied pig, bird, lizard, snake, turtle, or tortoise that is impounded in a public or private shelter animal rescue or adoption organization will be able to get out of the shelters and into storefronts.
THERAPY MINIATURE HORSES AT THE AIRPORT
Airports can be a stressful place. Some airports have therapy dogs; however, the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport has Wendy and Harley, two miniature therapy horses who clip-clop through the terminals, greeting travelers, calming their nerves and easing their fears about flying. Travelers drop their jaws and their bags when they see the little horses. They rush over to pet the furry equine celebrities or grab their smartphones to take photos and/or shoot a video. According to Lisa Moad, president and founder of the nonprofit Seven Oaks Farm in Ross, Ohio, she has 25 miniature horses who travel to nursing homes, hospice care, police programs, and even the Ronald McDonald House. The horses wear different vests and costumes to fit the occasion, including occasionally dressing-up the white miniature horse as a unicorn. The airport visits started a little less than a year ago. The horses love all the petting and attention, and seeing a miniature horse is a bit unusual and rather fun for the humans. PAGE 18
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Top Tips for Making Summer Road Travel Safe with Pets By April A. Northstrom
S
ummer travel is around the corner and Utahns know family vacations are best when they can include Fido and Fifi too. AAA and Best Western International reports more than half of U.S. pet owners take their cats and dogs on vacation. So, what are the best ways to make the most of your family vacation with the fuzzy ones?
Practice Your Trip
If you are planning to go by car and your animals aren’t used to long trips, practice shorter trips to get them comfortable with long driving. This will help you understand your pet’s anxieties and comfort zones. Does she get car sick? Does she like the window seat or the middle?
Potty Breaks
The American Veterinary Medical Association advises pet owners to stop every two to three hours to use the bathroom and get some exercise. It’s also good for you to stretch and interact with your pet in between long stretches of driving. Bring a favorite toy or frisbee for the pet-friendly rest stops along your route.
Don’t Leave Pets in the Car – Ever!
Even on a moderately warm day, 85 degree weather outside can make a parked car soar to 110 degrees in 10 minutes, which can be deadly. If you’ll be visiting a destination where pets aren’t allowed, leave them at a pet-friendly hotel which may have a pet sitter – or at home – instead of the car. Plan your own meal breaks to continue to the next page.
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accommodate pets. Don’t go into a restaurant or visitors center while your animals are in the car. This is a dangerous practice that increases your animals’ anxieties and fear of travel.
Stay Inside the Ride
Don’t let your animals hang their heads outside of windows or sit on the dashboard of your car. This makes them susceptible to flying objects or injury if you are in a car accident. Dogs and cats should be in the back seat in a crate or with a harness attached to a seat belt.
Make a Checklist
You don’t want to forget anything your pets need, so make a checklist for traveling with your pet that includes necessities that may be difficult to find on the road. Your list should include things like bringing extra water, vaccination records, towels, blankets, extra food, rubberized mats for the car and comfort items.
Feeding Schedules
It is recommended that you feed your pets three to four hours prior to riding in the car. Avoid feeding your animals in a moving car. If they need to eat, it’s the perfect opportunity to stretch, take a potty break and get a little exercise. Be prepared for unexpected car sickness
with towels and cleaning supplies. For animal lovers, some of the greatest vacation memories are made when traveling with their furry friends. Road trips, scenic hikes, open waters, the wind in your face – all great adventures when your animal best friend is your copilot. However, finding lodging along the way can prove challenging and sometimes expensive. Bed and breakfasts are a popular choice when your pet joins you on a road trip. They typically have more personal amenities and can make accommodations for dogs and cats alike. Not to mention the comfort of feeling like home, and usually happy proprietors who welcome fuzzy paws into their living quarters – if you can find one. Places like California and Arizona are catering to people who travel with pets. With more than 70 qualified pet-friendly bed and breakfast inns and boutiques, the California Association of Boutique and Breakfast Inns lists accommodations by location and provides a description of the amenities and a link to online reservations. If you are ready to increase the fun in your family adventures this summer, a little planning makes it possible to include your animal companions. If you are interested in flying with your animals, be sure to contact your specific airline for regulations. Other helpful resources are available online to help you plan your trip including, www.bringfido.com and www.pettravel.com.
By Tonya Landon
Q. My dog scratches at the door to be let inside and outside and he is doing damage. We just moved into a rental house and I don’t want him to ruin the doors. Any suggestions? – Dave
USU PET LOSS HOTLINE 435-757-4540 or email: petloss@usu.edu If you’re emotionally distraught because of the loss of a pet or have a terminally ill pet, you can call and talk to the warm and caring volunteers who answer the phones, or email the Pet Loss Hotline at the Utah State University. They will help you cope during this difficult time and provide resources to help you through the healing process. Volunteers are trained and supervised by Steven Lucero, PhD., a licensed psychologist with extensive experience in grief counseling, clinical supervision and assisting clients to mobilize resources in coping with distress.
Hours fall and spring semesters: Monday – Thursday, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Mountain time holidays/when not in session: Monday – Thursday evenings
A. Dogs do what works, and scratching the door has worked for him because you come to let him out or to let him in. Keep in mind that dogs don’t understand their scratching is ruining your door. You need to teach him a new way to tell you that he needs to go outside or come inside. Bells – Teach your dog to ring a string of bells hung from the doorknob. You can use any strand of loud bells. Hang them nose level to your dog. It is important to teach your dog to ring the bells with her nose instead of her paws as you don’t want her to continue to scratch the door. Door Shields – You can purchase clear plastic sheets, metal grates or a metal screen door at your local hardware store and hang them on your door. There is also a product called, The Door Shield, which is made for dogs that scratch doors. It is a crystal clear thin plastic that adheres easily to the doors. Pet Doorbell Mat – This is a portable, wireless electronic doorbell chime mat that lets you know when your dog is ready to come inside or go outside. The mat activates with 1 to 300 pounds of pressure. It has 12 selectable chimes with visual flashing lights. The wireless transmitter has a range of 100 feet, so this unit can be used inside or outside. Bow Wow Button/ Lentek Pet Doorbell – These devices are buttons that emit a sound when pushed. You teach your dog to push the button to alert you that he needs to go outside. You can hang these devices on the wall or put them on the floor for your dog. The sizes make them good for small and large dogs. Dog Door – Some people decide they would like to allow their dog to come and go as she pleases. You can do this by installing a dog door and teaching your dog to use it. Keep in mind, some dogs could get themselves into trouble by being in the yard unsupervised with behaviors such as nuisance barking, destruction and escaping the yard.
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 send them to askstetson@gmail.com.
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LET THERE BE LIGHT! By Emily Strong, CPBC, CPBT-KA
W
ith warmer weather, we’re all looking for every excuse to be outside and enjoy our surroundings. Most dog lovers want our dogs to be outside with us. However, most people don’t think about bringing our birds outside. Fortunately for birds, recent research indicates access to sunlight and fresh air is crucial to their health and well-being. Dr. Scott Echols, DVM, (Dipl) ABVP studies the effects of indoor living on parrots and the results are astounding. When deprived of natural sunlight, birds are unable to metabolize enough calcium to keep their bones healthy and strong. Even a bird who is being fed a nutritionally balanced diet with lots of fresh vegetables is still not able to make optimum use of those nutrients without the benefit of sunlight. The message is clear: we need to be giving our birds outdoor access as often as possible. There is no substitute for direct sunlight; windows aren’t enough. Glass filters out UV rays, which are necessary for birds’ health. And while UV lightbulbs are better than nothing – especially when outdoor access is limited – they present serious problems in providing adequate lighting for birds. Because the UV rays only extend approximately 18” from the lightbulbs, the birds would have to be very close to the bulb to benefit from it. But being that close can damage a bird’s corneas. While UV bulbs are still useful in a bird’s room because they allow birds to see their full color spectrum and don’t appear to flicker like regular lightbulbs do, they aren’t any more helpful than windows at providing UV rays to birds. So that leaves us with sunlight. How can we provide birds with sunlight while keeping them as safe as possible? The most obvious answer isn’t all that great: wing clipping. For several years, I volunteered for a parrot lost and found group, and most birds who flew away from their owners were clipped. They managed it because either some of their flight feathers had grown out enough to give the bird lift or, more frequently, because a tailwind carried the bird off regardless of their wing condition. Paradoxically, birds with full wings who are adept at flying are generally easier to retrieve because, unlike clipped birds, they aren’t afraid to fly back down from a great height. Furthermore, teaching a bird to fly back to you on cue is relatively easy. Even if the bird does fly away, getting them back can simply be a matter of asking them to. Concerns about predators are legitimate. Many birds and other pets have been carried off by hawks and eagles, never to be seen
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again. Fortunately, there are many other options. If your bird’s cage is small enough, you could simply roll it onto your patio. Or you could build an aviary. There are many websites devoted to designing and building your own aviary. If aviaries are too large or expensive, you could build a much smaller window box aviary. If permanent structures don’t appeal to you, there are bird strollers and bird backpacks which keep birds contained but have mesh openings on top to allow sunlight in. That’s right: you can take your birds on a walk or even a hike! Finally, there are harnesses designed specifically for birds, allowing more unrestricted access to you and the sun. The drawback to harnesses is that birds must be trained to wear them. If you’re going to train your bird anyway, consider spending the time and effort to teach them to fly to you on cue. Whatever options you choose, your bird will be happier and healthier with the additional sunlight. And with so many options for providing our birds with outdoor time, there’s something for everyone. Emily Strong, CPBC, CPBT-KA, is a certified behavior consultant and animal trainer with 26 years of experience in the field of animal welfare. Through her company, From Beaks To Barks, she offers behavior consults, group classes, service/ therapy/ESA training, and continuing education classes and workshops.
TRUFFLES
AUDI
I love to cuddle and adore people. I’m looking for the easy life with lots of cuddles, walks, treats and laying around. I’m house broken, and can be left in a room and be trusted. I do well with dogs my own size or bigger, but no cats or smaller dogs. I have bad hips and will need to be on pain meds and possibly special food for the rest of my life. To meet me, contact CAWS at caws.org.
I’m looking for a patient, dog savvy home. After months of training and socialization, I’m finally coming out of my shell and looking for my forever family! I love to play with other dogs, and once I warm up to humans, I love affection and attention. I’m potty trained, crate trained, and food motivated. I’m still timid on a leash and outside the home. With love, routine and structure, I will thrive. I need a home with a 6-foot fenced back yard, older dog-savvy kids and a lot of love to give! Apply today at www.rescuerovers.org.
MONKEY
TIGERLILY
I like to chase tennis balls and stuffed animals around the backyard, but I also like to curl up on the couch. I’m a sensitive young dog who’s still learning some of the basics. I’m kennel trained but am still working on house breaking. I do fine with most dogs and like to chase cats in a playful way. I would be best in a house with older children. I was badly bred and will likely have hip issues down the road. To meet me, contact CAWS at caws.org.
My favorite things are car rides, belly rubs and going on walks! I’m a great camper and love hiking and playing in the water. Mostly, I like being with you! I’m looking for a calmer home with older children (12+) where I can be the only furbaby. I am fine with other dogs, I just don’t want to live with them. Since I’m a senior, my adoption fee is only $75! Apply today at www.rescuerovers. org.
FRIEDRICH & LIESL
EBENEZER
Hi, I’m Friedrich, the black domestic shorthair. I love to play with my sister Liesl. I really like the wand toy with that fuzzy thing on the end. I can catch it and it can’t get away. Sometimes my foster Mom holds it real high, and I jump so high and can touch it; she cheers for me because I am an amazing jumper. I love to run and jump. When I get tired I like to sit on my foster Mom’s lap to get some TLC. Liesl has mild Cerebellar Hypoplasia, but she loves to play. There are times when she don’t like to be held, and will rocket out of your arms. Her motor skills are almost normal, and she can even do stairs and climb a kitty condo. She can jump really high too. If you are looking for a bonded pair, please consider us. To meet us, contact CAWS at caws.org.
I may be considered a senior, but I’m still full of life and enjoy every moment of it! I’m an easygoing guy who enjoys lounging in sunny windows and spending time with people. I get along well with other cats, too! To find out more about me, call Nuzzles & Co. at (435) 649-5441.
Female | Five Years Old | Pitbull
Female | Adult | Pitbull Terrier
Male and Female Adult Bonded Pair
ANIVIA
Female | Two Years Old | German Shephard Mix
Female | Nine Years Old | Boxer Mix
Male | Six Years Old | Domestic Shorthair
SIRI
Female | Two Years Old | Domestic Longhair I’m a spunky and outgoing girl who enjoys playing with toys and exploring my surroundings, but I also like to curl up on your lap and take a snooze after I’m done being active. I like other cats but would be happy as an only pet, too. To find out more about me, call Nuzzles & Co. at (435) 649-5441.
Female | Two Years Old | Pitbull Given my age, I do still have some energy to burn, so I’d love to be able to accompany you when you go out for a jog or play in the yard with some toys. I love my people. I am well-mannered around the house, though I can get excited sometimes and may knock over little children. I am nearly crate trained. I enjoy lounging in the sun, swimming and curling up on the couch. I should be an only pet. I am potty trained, walk well on a leash and know basic commands. Apply today at www.rescuerovers.org. PAGE 28
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SOPHIE
Female | Seven Years Old | Labrador Mix I’m an energetic dog who loves to be outside! I’m looking for an active family to spend lots of quality time with. I’m not a fan of cats but I get along with some other dogs. Mostly, I just love to play, play, play! To find out more about me, call Nuzzles & Co. at (435) 649-5441.
MAY 2017
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FIONA
MACINTOSH
KENTA
KAYA & JAMESON
COTTON
DAEGAN
CHEWIE
COOKIE
RHUE
ROMEO
STELLA
CHARLIE
CHARLIE
MAGGIE
ANNIE
ICHABOD & SPOOKS
Do you want to share a photo of your pet? Email your high-resolution photo & your pet’s name to info@petsinthecitymagazine.com.
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