Central Ohio PetConnections Jan-Feb 2017 Vol. 3 Issue 1 Digital Edition

January/February 2017 Volume 3 Issue 1

CENTRAL OHIO

PetConnections wellness through the human-animal bond

2

FRE E

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

LOCAL Upcoming Events

THE WRONG DOG

By New York Times bestselling author, David Elliot Cohen

PETCON Pet & Equine Expos

PETCON 2017

Central Ohio’s #1 Resource for Everything Pets

From the Publisher Welcome to our Central Ohio PetConnections Magazine 2nd Year Anniversary!

January/February 2017 Vol. 3 Issue 1

News & Events This issue begins our third year of publishing Central Ohio PetConnections. Thank you to our readers, writers, and advertising sponsors, for making PetConnections a success in Central Ohio!

We are excited to announce that we are partnering with the Columbus Dispatch and their FALL HOME SHOW to add our second big event PETCON Pet Expo in with their event! The dates are September 8-10, 2017 and it is being held at the Ohio Expo Center and Fairgrounds. Please see our ad in the event section, along with local pet events for the season!

This Issue Our featured cover story, THE WRONG DOG, by New York Times Best Selling Author, David Elliot Cohen, is a delightful tale of the right dog!

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES PLEASE SUBMIT ANY CORRESPONDENCE TO: info@pghpetconnections.com 724 -292-7387

CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS BI-MONTHLY Published by: Pittsburgh PetConnections, LLC. Pittsburgh PetConnections LLC. was formed in 2012. Our mission is to publish a high quality, informative publication focused on the Human-Animal Bond. We support local businesses and also assist local non-profit businesses for pets and people, to give back to our great Central Ohio communities.

M A G A Z I N E P U B L I C AT I O N S TA F F Carla Mader, Managing Editor Susan Wagner, DVM, Content Editor Nicole Mayer, Art Director Jaime Chesney, Digital Advertising Specialist Carla Mader, Sales & Distribution Manager Ken Holton, Distribution Kara Jones Photography, Photography

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Our contributing writers have many years of combined experience and expertise in the fields of veterinary medicine and the Human-Animal Bond.

February is Pet Dental Health month and we have an informative article in our PET HEALTH & WELLNESS SECTION. Our Wellness for Guardians section highlights the work of PBJ Connections and how they utilize horses to assist families to provide solution-oriented mental health therapy. Also, the Ohio Wildlife has some great articles in our Wildlife section on birds.

See how PetConnections can help your market to advertise with content that supports your message with our multi-media partnership packages! Our partnership with Digital Advertising Solutions offers more targeted and effective digital marketing and advertising campaigns to our sponsors for Central Ohio, as well as Western PA. For PetConnections Advertising inquiries contact: 412-738-4233 or by email info@pghpetconnections.com.

PetConnections is also looking to grow our team with additional sales account manager professionals.

Subscribe today for your own VIP MEMBERSHIP and personal bi-monthly copy of PetConnections, and become part of the Petconnections Community! www.petconnections.pet/subscribe. PetConnections supports local organizations and small business and we have established a community network of readers & members, writers, advertising sponsors, and distribution points. Please support our advertising sponsors! See their locations on the map page. Check out our PetConnections Resource Directories for categorized listings.

Please submit your photos and stories, as well as remembrances, to be featured online and in future issues to: info@pghpetconnections.com.

Thank you for picking up PetConnections. Please Take care of yourselves and your animals. Be well this Winter season!

All Rights Reserved | Copyright 2017 Cover Photo Credit: Erick Steinberg

Warmly,

Carla Mader Publisher Pittsburgh & Central Ohio PetConnections Magazine Please submit any correspondence to: info@pghpetconnections.com Please check us out on the web & subscribe at: www.petconnections.pet.

Follow PghPetMag on Twitter and “Like� us on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/PghPetconnectionsMagazine

CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Table of Contents January/February 2017

2 8

13

Kitty Korner Beat the Heat

HumanAnimal Bond The Wrong Dog

Wildlife The American Crow

14

Holistic Pet Care Acupuncture

18

Wellness for Guardians PBJ Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

4 Human-Animal

Bond Losing a Beloved Pet

6 Events 9 Wildlife Tip For Feeding Backyard Birds

12 Pet Health

& Wellness Periodontal Disease in Dogs

16 Holistic Pet

Care Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT)

10 Advertiser

20 Equine Affairs

11 Directories

21 In Remembrance

Locator Map

What Horses Say

www.petconnections.pet 1

Human-Animal Bond A Memoir in Review

THE WRONG DOG

an unlikely tale of unconditional love

By David Elliot Cohen, Published by In THE WRONG DOG, New York Times bestselling author and Western Pennsylvania native, David Elliot Cohen tells the humorous, engaging story of what happens when puppy pick-up instructions go disastrously awry and a boisterous rough and-tumble ball of energy bursts onto the family scene. So begins the chronicle of the unexpected love between a big family and their giant lug of a highspirited Lab that culminates in a once-in-alifetime road trip, revels in the glories of the human-canine relationship and, along the way, ponders thecrucial difference between a good death and a bad death. In a memoir as poignant as it is funny, Cohen shares the true story of Simba II, a ninety-pound white Labradorretriever with honey-dipped ears and a proud bearing.

Simba enjoys most of his fourteen years living with his large blended family in bucolic Marin County, California. But then, when he is old and ailing, the family has to relocate across the country. The initial plan is to fly Simba to New York but when the vet examines the ancient dog two weeks prior to the prospective flight, she nixes that idea, citing Simba’s failing health. With the rest of his family already in Manhattan, Cohen and his best friend Erick decide that their only choice is to load Simba into the back of the family station wagon and embark on a 3,291mile road trip across America. The goal of the journey: to reunite Simba with his loving family while hitting some of the high spots along the way—a mission complicated by the fact that Simba can only ride in the car three hours at a time without getting sick.

Together, this trio of unlikely adventurers motors coast to coast encountering mobs of Las Vegas tourists who want to shower Simba with affection, Simba’s sheer delight as he romps through the Petrified Forest and a host of wacky Route 66 oddities, including the world’s tallest thermometer, Meteor Crater, Cadillac Ranch and Graceland. The constant question is: Will Simba live long enough to make it to New York City?

Cohen stopped along the way in his home town of Pittsburgh to visit his ailing parents.

Traveling east bound into the city he describes his homecoming: “By noon, we found ourselves emerging into eye-blinking daylight from Pittsburgh’s half-mile long Fort Pitt Tunnel. The tunnel deposited us directly onto the Fort Pitt Bridge. And from there, we had a magnificent view of the Steel City’s dozen or so skyscrapers, which occupy a compact triangle of land bounded by two wide rivers— the Monongahela and Allegheny—that merge at that point to form the mighty Ohio. For my money, it’s the most beautiful cityscape in America—but I’m a born-and-bred western PA guy, so take that with a grain of salt.”

Cohen’s arrival in Pittsburgh is bittersweet when he quickly finds that in the six months since he had last visited, his mother’s health had declined drastically.

They leave the city after a sad couple of days, and it would ultimately be the last visit Cohen would have with his mother. He later reflects on this poignant realization, making the contrast in the book regarding his mother’s difficult passing and Simba’s meaningful transition.

THE WRONG DOG is an insightful story filled with historical and geographic trivia and told with self-deprecating wit and mature perception. It lovingly reminds readers that a good death is our final blessing.

Without giving up more of this heart-warming story of this must read, it continues as Cohen travels on to New York city with Erick and Simba in an attemp to reunite with his wife and their family.

The amazing trip across the country and personal journey, brought about an acute awareness of the Human-Animal Bond in Cohen, inspiring him to share his story with us.

2 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

A friend of Cohen sums it up at the end by saying, “…we don’t love our dogs because they give us unconditional love—even though that’s what everyone says. We love our dogs because they show us that we, ourselves, are capable of loving another being unconditionally.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Author and editor David Elliot Cohen has created or co-created more than 70 books that have collectively sold more than six million copies. Most were in the very popular Day in the Life and America 24/7 photography book series. Four of Cohen’s books have been New York Times bestsellers. Seven others, including his 1999 travelogue, One Year Off, were national bestsellers in the US or abroad.

Cohen has been profiled in The New York Times, People and other major periodicals.

He has appeared on The Today Show, Good Morning America, CBS Sunday Morning, NPR’s All Things Considered and many other major news programs. He grew up in Erie, Pennsylvania and graduated from Yale University. He lives in Manhattan and Tiburon, California and is married to corporate attorney Laureen Seeger. Together, they have five children…and a dog. PC

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A VIP

MEMBERSHIP FOR YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES We started this venture, because of our passion for the human-animal bond. We also wanted to let others tell their stories and provide the best information possible on caring for your pets. Now we would like to extend our PetConnections network and an invitation to assist in continuing our mission.

What you get with a PetConnections VIP Membership: PetConnections magazine mailed to you, 6 copies per year.

Digital issue Eblast with newsletter every issue , including early

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notice of upcoming contests and events. Discounts from local businesses. Listing on the VIP Membership Page of you, your family and your pets! Free admission to PetConnections events and free or special admission to other pet events. Other surprises, including invitations to exclusive dinners and events. The cost is up to you.

Please join and pay securely online at www.PghPetConnections.com/ subscribe.

Business and Organization Memberships Many of our advertising sponsors have asked about additional partnership opportunities beyond advertising and, thanks to your suggestions, we have created Membership programs for businesses and organizations.

Basic Business Membership,

$100/year

Includes magazines for your business. Your location will be featured online at the Pick up a Copy Dis-

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tribution list and listed on our sponsor page in print and online.

VIP Business Membership,

$100/month Includes Basis Business Membership benefits PLUS the ability to include a special offer for VIP Members online and to insert a flyer in VIP Membership envelopes mailed with every issue, advertising on one eblast with link through to your site or page, free tickets to PetConnections Expositions, sponsored events and VIP Social Events. Social media mentions.

Call us with any inquiries and questions at 724-292-7387 or email us at info@pghpetconnections.com.

www.PetConnections.us

Non-profit Partner Membership for Tax Exempt Charity or Foundation, $100/year Includes one feature article, online and print directories and event listings. www.PghPetConnections.com/ subscribe.

www.petconnections.pet 3

Human-Animal Bond

Losing a Beloved Pet

By Susan Wagner, DVM, MS, ACVIM

K

insey had dropped dead in the backyard. As I sat and read the words in the email from my client, I couldn’t believe it. I saw the message entitled Kinsey, and thought perhaps she had experienced another seizure.

I should have noticed the time – just after midnight – a clue that something was wrong.

As I stared at the screen, my usually calm demeanor felt a shock wave go through it. Kinsey had a pacemaker. She wasn’t supposed to collapse and die. It seemed like an eternity before I could get up and call her guardian. After a morning of sadness, talking with her cardiology group, and shifting from a veterinary to a spiritual perspective, I knew that as in every beloved pet’s death, it was time.

Many people don’t understand the emotion surrounding a pet’s death. Our friends mean well when they tell us to go out and get another dog or cat. But we know it’s not that simple. We have to grieve the part of us that’s gone. Many clients have told me that they grieved more over the loss of their pet then over a human relative’s death. They talk about the guilt they feel from these emotions. From a spiritual perspective, those humans were loved, but they weren’t part of them. They weren’t on this earth to walk life’s journey with them. Their animals were.

All our pets teach us something as they travel through life with us. Sometimes the journey is difficult; sometimes it’s nothing but joy. In either case, their passing can create a grief that takes us to our knees.

Many veterinary schools have grief counselors and pet loss support groups. These caring professionals and volunteers

have an understanding of the humananimal bond, and can guide us through the grief process. If your loss is overwhelming, or you would like to talk 4 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

about your beloved pet, reach out to someone who has experience with human-animal relationships.

And don’t hesitate to reach out to your pet. Sound strange?

Science tells us that matter is neither created nor destroyed;

it only changes form. All of life is energy, and your pet hasn’t gone anywhere. His physical presence has shifted to a different vibration.

Your spiritual paths together are still intact, but you can’t experience this new part of the journey together unless you know it exists.

You may want to try this simple exercise. Think of your beloved pet, and open your heart. Feel the joy of her life, or the grief caused by her loss. While experiencing this feeling, ask for greater understanding. It may take time, but if you continue this process, the wisdom of the situation will come through.

A word of warning is in order. Pure grief is a positive energy state created by the loss of something precious to us. It is not: why did this happen to me or what did everyone, including myself, do wrong? It is not blame. Those thoughts are coming from a negative place. Having said that, you may want to ask for clarity surrounding them. They can illuminate other areas of your life that are being influenced by these beliefs.

Negative thoughts don’t connect us to the help that’s available. On the contrary, they block it from finding us, and create more drama in our lives. So, bringing awareness to these negative emotions is one more way your pet can help you create a more joyful life — even in his absence.

Today is dedicated to Kinsey, whose joyful tail wags and slobbery kisses taught us all about staying positive in the midst of life’s challenges. I thank you for being you, and for all you have taught us. PC

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Events

Upcoming Events!

Mingle With Our Mutts 12-2pm, 1st & 3rd Sunday, Monthly Franklin Co Dog Shelter, off Morse Rd, behind Menards Visit with 15 recues & shelters as well as the dogs in the Franklin Co Dog Shelter

Thursday, March 30th 6:00PM to 8:30 PM Walter Commons Room St. Charles Preparatory School Benefiting the Capitol Area Humanes Society

PETCON Pet & Equine Expos

HAAWC is a 501(c)(3) organization that honors the Human-Animal Bond as a source of wellness for individuals, families and communities.

Guided by the belief that animals are a gateway to human healing, HAAWC intends to develop both urban programs and rural sanctuaries designed to impact community health, safety and wellness.

HAAWC is Raising Funds for 4 Objectives: • Assistance with veterinary care, pet medications & pet food programs • Animal-assisted activities • Educational seminars & workshops • Research on the Human-Animal Bond

You Can Help!

Please Donate Today

PETCON 2017 Pet & Expo Symposium & Gala!

September 8th through 10th Ohio Expo Center & Fairgrounds

MONTHLY MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE that include a subscription to PetConnections Magazine.

www.HAAWC.org 6 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

PETCON Pet & Equine Expos

PETCON 2017

Pet & Expo Symposium & Gala!

September 8th through 10th Ohio Expo Center & Fairgrounds

Enjoy Dog Shows Diving Dogs, K-9 Agility Horse Exhibitors & Tack Swap Seminars, Demonstrations & Performances Gala to Fundraise for Local Organizations Shopping with Pet & Home Exhibitors Kids Events Contests, Prizes & Giveaways Face Painting, Balloon Twisting & Crafts

www.PetConnections.pet

|

info@pghpetconnections.com

| 412.292.7387

Wildlife

THE AMERICAN CROW Not Your Average Birdbrain

By Linda Forte-Spearing, Volunteer at Ohio Wildlife Center Cornell Lab of Ornithology, a group of crows (ironically called a murder) was seen distracting a river otter in order to take its fish. While in a separate incident, crows followed Common Mergansers, plucking out the minnows the ducks had chased into shallow water.

“Crows are the fairest of them all,” said nobody. Ever. And it’s no wonder. Crows have been associated with death for centuries whether following soldiers into battle, predicting untimely demise, or attacking upstanding citizens for no apparent reason—insert Alfred Hitchcock’s 1963 thriller, “The Birds.”

Cloaked in black plumage, with a black bill, legs, and feet, this macabre species even sounds sinister. Caw. Caw. Caw. But as the saying goes, looks aren’t everything. Or perhaps, more appropriate, is the adage brains are better than brawn. It is intelligence that separates the crows from the crowds.

You might say these birdbrains are brainiacs.

HABITAT

Common throughout the 88 counties of Ohio, the American crow is highly adaptable. Crows do prefer open spaces, though most any open space with some trees and a reliable food source will do.

Fields, farmlands, and shorelines are popular “natural” choices. Manmade habitats like parking lots, landfills, suburban neighborhoods, and urban town centers are also suitable.

FOOD

When it comes to garbage trucks, it seems nobody knows their schedules better than the neighborhood crows.

Some crows, we’re told, have memorized the routes. Too small to open the lids on their own, they wait for sanitation workers to do it for them.

And yes, crows are clever enough to make “tools.” They shape wood to retrieve insects from holes in fence posts. They ping pinecones at tree climbers too close to their nests. They’ll even use the human world to their advantage, dropping shelled nuts in front of moving cars, collecting their kernels once the automobile has passed.

FAMILY

Crows are sociable birds, more often found in groups than alone. And for the most part, they mate for life—so courtship behavior is limited. Oak trees are a favorite nesting site, as are large, mature conifers. Females are the primary incubators, but males do participate in building the nest.

Young crows can breed at the age of two, though they may not do so until the age of four (or more). In most populations, the young help their parents raise other young. Year-round family groups can consist of the breeding pair and the offspring from the previous two years.

American crows are typically ground feeders, eating just about anything from grains and seeds to earthworms and small aquatic creatures. They also consume carrion, or roadkill, though it doesn’t comprise the bulk of their diet.

It takes a crow village to raise their youth. It also takes the village to mourn for their dead. “Calling to each other, gathering around, and paying special attention to a fallen comrade is common,” according to National Geographic.

Likewise, crows are known to be crafty foragers. In other words, they steal things. According to one website, The

CONSERVATION

While crows are not a threatened species,

8 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

the American Crow is extremely susceptible to West Nile Virus—a mosquito-borne pathogen. Kristi Krumlauf, Hospital Director, Ohio Wildlife Center, confirms this is the case for crows in the local area.

“Of the 13 crows, we admitted in 2016,” she says, “a majority exhibited West Nile symptoms.”

The hospital also receives crows with fractured wings. In fact, two such patients, Percy and Lenore, are permanently housed at Ohio Wildlife’s Conservation Education facility, in Powell.

Percy was found out of the nest, caught in a fence, after high winds in Grandview. When her parents struggled to free her, they broke her wing. Lenore was also admitted with a broken wing. Because of their injuries, both are unable to fly and now act as animal ambassadors.

Ohio Wildlife Center is a non-profit charity, relying solely on individual donations and grants for its daily monitored information hotline, the running of its hospital facility and the educational services it offers. There is no fee for these services, and all animals it accepts are treated.

For additional information about Ohio Wildlife Center, including a listing of the licensed wildlife rehabilitators in your area, visit. www.ohiowildlifecenter.org. Please call the Center’s monitored information hotline at 614-793-WILD for assistance with common wildlife situations. PC

Sources: • “American Crow.” All About Birds. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, n.d. Web. 18 Jan. 2017.

• Langley, Liz. “Do Crows Hold Funerals for Their Dead?”

National Geographic. National Geographic Society, 3 Oct. 2015. Web. 18 Jan. 2017.

Tips For Feeding Backyard Birds in the Winter

By Linda Forte-Spearing Volunteer, Ohio Wildlife Center Winter in the Northeast is for the birds—bird watchers, that is. With little vegetation to provide camoflauge, bird activity is more visible. And with fewer food sources available, birds will flock to reliable feeders.

Not all birdseed is created equally, however. To make the most out of your feeding experience, it’s important to choose the right food.

• Black-oil sunflower seeds will attract just about any bird including blue jays, cardinals, chickadees, finches, nuthatches and titmice. It’s a better choice than the white or gray-striped variety, as it is higher in oil content and easier to crack. The seed inside the shell is also bigger than its counterpart. Those birds that can’t crack the shell will pick up the bits that fall to the ground.

• De-shelled, dry-roasted and unsalted peanuts are also a crowd favorite.

Redbellied, downy and hairy woodpeckers love this high-protein, high-energy food, as do songbirds.

While high quality birdseed mixes usually do include peanut pieces, you can purchase a tube-shaped feeder specifically for this purpose.

• Suet is a formulation of animal fats

and other ingredients. And while it can be used year round, it is a quick source of heat and energy for birds in the wintertime. Offering suet cakes in a wire cage will surely lure woodpeckers to your feeding operation. You can even make a suet holder from an onion bag.

• Blackbirds, doves and sparrows are a few amongst the many species attracted to cracked corn. The advantage of “cracked” corn is its manageable size (and therefore its digestibility) versus whole kernels that are still on the cob. Mallard ducks, rabbits, squirrels and wild turkeys also love this winter treat and are a reliable clean up crew beneath the feeder.

• Niger seed, otherwise known as thistle, is an oily seed adored by goldfinches, house finches and the like. But buyers beware! Niger is not only expensive, but it has a tendency to get moldy in wet weather which means birds will turn up their beaks and not eat it.

• As mentioned previously, mixed birdseed can be a mixed bag. While it is usually the least expensive option, don’t be fooled by the price tag.

Mixed seed from grocery stores, etc. is comprised mostly of filler— junk seeds the birds will toss aside while looking for all of the good stuff. Instead, look for mixed varieties comprised of blackoil sunflower, peanuts, cracked corn

and suet pieces.

• No food list is complete without mentioning the importance of water. In fact, birds often suffer more from lack of water than food. When temperatures plunge below freezing, providing a consistent source of water guarantees a steady stream of backyard visitors.

Heated birdbaths are reasonably priced and available at specialty bird stores.

Watching our feathered friends brave the winter elements can certainly pull at our heartstrings, but it’s important to recognize that human intervention can also make things worse. This is especially true for waterfowl.

According to Angela Latham, Community Engagement Coordinator, Ohio Wildlife Center, providing inappropriate foods, such as bread, can be lethal to ducks, geese and swans. Not only does it cause digestive issues, it can lead to malnutrition and eventual wing deformities. “Regularly feeding ducks and geese things like bread, popcorn and similar foods can be especially harmful,” she explains, “as bread can expand in the bird’s throat and can cause choking, impaction and infections.”

Additional problems that come from people feeding waterfowl an unsuitable diet include: dependence on people for food, bird/human conflicts, spread of wildlife disease and altering of natural migratory behavior. PC www.petconnections.pet 9

Advertiser Locator Page 15 A Beaver Animal Clinic Page 15 Best Breed Page 15 B Canine Health Page 19 Close 2 Ur Heart Page 21 Closure at Home Page 19 C Creative Foundations

Page 21 D Crystal Remembrance for Pets Page 6 HAAWC Back Cover Home & Garden Show Page 17 E Inner Awakening Page 5 K9 Grass Page 1 Kobi Collars

C

Delaware

E Sunbury

C

B

F

D

Columbus

10 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Reynoldsburgh

Page 19 Line Keepers Page 1 Lucy Pet Products Page 5 Mia Bella’s Wax Candles Page 3 F Pet Valu Page 1 Real Big Puppy Page 10 Timber Wolf Leather

Directories Adoption, Rescue, & Shelters

Avian & Exotics

MedVet Medical & Cancer Centers for Pets (Hilliard) 614-870-0480 www.medvetforpets.com OHPA Bird Fairs www.ohpabirdfairs.com

Dog Parks

Alum Creek Dog Park www.alumcreekdogpark.com Companion Club Dog Park 740-881-2000 www.columbusdogpark.com Godown Road Dog Park www. worthingtondogpark.com Heritage Trail Dog Park www.hilliardohio.gov/play/heritage-trail-dog-park Pizzurro Park and “Dog Park” www.gahanna.gov/departments/parks/ communityParks.aspx

Equestrian

Central Ohio Riding Club 614-873-6644 www.centralohioridingclub.com Equus Now! 740-549-4959 www.Equusnow.com OSU Veterinary Medical Center 614-292-6661 www.vet.osu.edu/vmc/

Landscaping & Lawncare Forever Lawn 844.614.TURF(8873) www.foreverlawnohio.com Good Nature Organic Lawn Care 888-529-6723 www.whygoodnature.com

Pet Burial, Cremation & Memorial Services

Crystal Remembrance for Pets 888-930-7363 Day Manofsky Funeral Service 614-532-5012 www.Daymanofskyfuneralservice.com

Rutherford Funeral Homes 614-885-4006 www.Rutherfordfuneralhomes.com Schoedinger Pet Services 614-224-2691 swww.choedingerpetservices.com

Pet Fencing

Invisible Fence 614-888-3647 www.columbuseast.invisiblefence.com Pet Stop of Ohio www.Columbuspetfence.com

Pet-Friendly Auto Dealerships Central Ohio Area Byers Subaru 877-265-2083 www.columbussubaru.com Hatfield Subaru 877-371-2094 www.hatfieldsubaru.net

Pet Insurance

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance 888-716-1203 www.aspcapetinsurance.com

Pet Resorts- Boarding, Daycare, Grooming, Agility & Training ARF! Agility and Rally for Fun! www.arfagility.com Advanced Boarding & Grooming 740-549-9999 www.advancedboardingandgrooming.com K9 Connection 614-778-0431 www.k9connectiononline.com Park Your Paws Doggie Daycare 614-262-PAWS www.parkyourpaws.org Pet Palace Pet Boarding Resort www.petpalaceresort.com The Dog Spaw Pet Grooming 614-245-4169 www.thedogspawsalon.com Willow Wood Pet Resort & Training Center 614-304-1921 www.petresortwillowwood.com

Pet Retail, Supply, & Accessories April Minech Custom Portraits/Pet Inspired Art www.LadybugDelightz.etsy.com Best Breed Holistic Pet Nutrition www.Bestbreed.com Canine Health Supplements www.peggymills.lifevantage.com Close 2 Ur Heart Jewelry www.feifish.etsy.com Collar Doos www.collardoos.com Fan Reps Legwarmers and More 412-439-3063 www.fanreps.com Kobi Collars www.kobicollars.com Lucy Pet Products 844-724-LUCY (5829) www.lucypetproducts.com Moochie & Co. www.moochieandco.com

Natural Inspirations Parrot Cages www.Naturalinspirationsparrotcages.com Pet People www.petpeoplestores.com Pawdentify and Links-It Collar Tags www.pawdentify.com Plexidor www.plexidors.com Timber Wolf Leather collars, leashes, harnesses 419-308-4118

Pharmacies

Murray Avenue Apothecary www.maapgh.com/pet-supplements

Veterinary Medicine

Closure at Home Jill Hayes, DVM 614-397-2128 www.closureathome.com Elemental Veterinary Center & Pet Spa 614-824-4036 www.elementalvetcenter.com Lifetime Pet Wellness Center 614-888-2100 www.lifetimepetwellness.com Health & Harmony Animal Hospital 614-360-3941 www.healthandharmonyanimalhospital.com The Animal Care Center at Granville 740-587-2229 www.animalcarecentergranville.com

Veterinary Specialty and Emergency MedVet Medical & Cancer Centers for Pets 614-846-5800 www.medvetforpets.com OSU Veterinary Medical Center 614-292-3551 www.vet.osu.edu/vmc/

Wellness for Guardians

The All Life Community for Integrative Well Being 740-201-8242 www.alllifecenter.org Creative Foundations 877-345-6733 www.creativefoundations.org Judith Levy Coaching www.judithlevycoaching.com Unique Home Solutions 614-845-0500 www.uniquehomesolutions.org

Visit our online directory at pghpetconnections.com/Dog-Cat-Directory

Almost Home Dog Rescue of OH 614-766-1001 www.almosthomeohio.org Canine Companions 1-800-572-BARK (2775) www.cci.org/northcentral Capital Area Humane Society 614-777-7387 www.cahs-pets.org CHA Animal Shelter 614-891-5280 www.chaanimalshelter.org Colony Cats Adoption Center 614-593-0055 www.Colonycats.org Columbus Dog Connection 614-471-9000 www.Columbusdogconnection.com Cozy Cat Cottage Adoption Center 614-336-8510 www.cozycatcottage.org Franklin County Dog Shelter & Adoption Center 614-525-3647 www.franklincountydogs.com Pets without Parents www.petswithoutparents.net

Wildlife

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium www.columbuszoo.org Ohio Wildlife Center 614-793-WILD www.ohiowildlifecenter.org SCRAM! Wildlife Control www.ohiowildlifecenter.org The Wilds www.thewilds.columbuszoo.org

List your business today! info@pghpetconnections.com www.petconnections.pet 11

Pet Health & Wellness

Periodontal Disease in Dogs

By Carla Mader

Periodontal disease is an inflammation of some or all of a tooth’s deep supporting structures.

Today, it is one of the most common diseases in dogs.

If food particles and bacteria are allowed to accumulate along the dog’s gum line, it can form plaque, which, when combined with saliva and minerals, will transform into calculus. This causes gum irritation and leads to an inflammatory condition called gingivitis. Gingivitis, which is evidenced by a reddening of the gums directly bordering the teeth, is considered to be an early stage of periodontal disease.

After an extended period, the calculus builds up under the gum and separates it from the teeth. Spaces will form under the teeth, fostering bacterial growth. Once this happens, the dog has irreversible periodontal disease. This usually leads to bone loss, tissue destruction and pus formation in the cavities between the gum and teeth.

Periodontal disease affects both cats and dogs of all ages, though it is more common in older animals.

Symptoms and Types Periodontal disease generally begins with the inflammation of one tooth, which may progress if not treated during different stages of the condition. A dog with stage 1 periodontal disease in one or more of its teeth, for example, will exhibit gingivitis without any separation of the gum and tooth. Stage 2 is characterized by a 25 percent attachment loss, while stage 3 involves a 25 to 30 percent attachment loss. In stage 4, which is also called advanced periodontitis, there is more than a 50 percent attachment loss. In the most advanced stage of the disease, the gum tissue will usually recede and the roots of the teeth will be exposed.

Effects of Periodontal Disease: • Bad breath • Bleeding and oral pain • Loss of appetite or dropping food while eating • Loose teeth or teeth falling out • Bacteria in the blood stream • Microscopic damage in kidneys, heart muscle and liver.

Studies have shown that dogs with severe periodontal disease have more damage to organs than dogs with less severe disease.

12 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Causes Periodontal disease can be caused by a variety of factors. In dogs, the most common causes are the Streptococcus and Actinomyces bacteria. Canine toy breeds with crowded teeth, and dogs that groom themselves, carry a higher risk of acquiring the disease. In addition, poor nutrition will also contribute to the onset of the condition.

Diagnosis The diagnosis of periodontal disease involves a number of procedures. If periodontal probing reveals more than two millimeters of distance between the gingivitis-affected gum and tooth, a dog is considered to have some form of periodontal abnormality.

Treatment The specific treatment for periodontal disease depends on how advanced the disease is. In the early stages, treatment is focused on controlling plaque and preventing attachment loss. This is achieved by daily brushing with animal safe toothpaste, professional cleansing, polishing, and the prescribed application of fluoride.

In stage 2 or 3, the treatment involves the cleansing of the space between the gums and teeth and the application of antibiotic gel to rejuvenate periodontal tissues and decrease the size of the space.

In the more advanced stages, bone replacement procedures, periodontal splinting, and guided tissue regeneration may become necessary.

Living and Management Follow-up treatment for periodontal disease consists mostly of good dental care and weekly, quarterly, or half-yearly checks. Prognosis in dogs will depend on how advanced the disease is, but the best way to minimize the adverse effects caused by the disease is to get an early diagnosis, adequate treatment and proper therapy.

Prevention The best prevention is to maintain good oral hygiene and to regularly brush and clean the dog’s mouth and gums.

Please call your veterinarian for advice on how best to address your individual pet’s oral health care.

Kitty Korner

BEAT THE HEAT

Alley Cat Allies Reminds Communities to Spay & Neuter Cats Before Kitten Season to Prevent Litters

BETHESDA, Md., USA – Jan. 30, 2017 – Alley Cat Allies today reminds communities that winter is the ideal time to spay and neuter cats to get ahead of prime kitten season and end the breeding cycle before it starts.

“The time for prevention is now,” said Becky Robinson, president and founder of Alley Cat Allies. “Cats may even be pregnant before the snow melts. For community cats, Trap-Neuter-Return is the most effective way to reduce the impact of kitten season by preventing litters.”

Every year animal shelters experience a rise in the number of kittens brought to the shelter throughout spring and summer.

According to Alley Cat Allies’ analysis of ten years of data from their Northern Virginia spay and neuter clinic, pregnant cats brought to the clinic peaked in March—over half of all female cats were pregnant. However, less than one percent of female cats were pregnant from October through December. Cats are therefore breeding in the winter and birthing their kittens in the spring and summer, making spaying and neutering efforts during the wintertime essential. By spaying and neutering cats now, communities can prevent the peak of pregnant cats and new litters in the spring.

Spring is a notoriously difficult time for animal shelters in every community across the country because multiple litters of kittens are impounded every day once kitten season begins. “Most animal shelters are not equipped to care for young kittens who have been separated from their mother too early,” says Ellen Jefferson, a licensed veterinarian who serves as Executive Director of Austin Pets Alive! and an advisor to Alley

Cat Allies. “Neonatal kittens require around-the-clock care from trained staff or foster homes. Without a network in place to care for neonatal kittens, many, if not all of them, will be killed in the shelter.”

Jefferson noted that cats can become pregnant as early as four months of age, meaning the kittens you see today will be having kittens of their own come springtime. With a 63-day (nine-week) gestation period, kittens are usually conceived in January and February and born in the spring.

Kittens can be safely spayed or neutered at 2 months old, or as soon as they weigh two pounds.

Veterinarians consider pediatric spaying and neutering for cats an easier, faster procedure. Research has shown that kittens spayed or neutered before 12 weeks of age have fewer complications from surgery than those older than 12 weeks. Kittens also rebound much faster after surgery with less stress than cats over 6 months of age.

In a Trap-Neuter-Return program (TNR), community cats—also called feral cats—are humanely trapped and taken to a veterinary clinic for spaying, neutering, and vaccination. The tip of the cat’s left ear is painlessly removed while under anesthesia, indicating that the cat has been neutered and vaccinated. Unsocialized cats are returned to their outdoor homes, while friendly cats and kittens are fostered before adoption.

TNR ends the reproduction cycle, and stops behaviors associated with mating such as yowling and spraying, thereby addressing community concerns and decreasing calls to animal control.

TNR program see fewer cats entering animal shelters, allowing shelters to focus their efforts and taxpayer dollars on adoption programs and community outreach and education.

In addition to the over 600 nonprofit groups nationally practicing TNR, there are more than 450 cities and counties with official ordinances or policies endorsing TNR for community cats.

Individuals can find additional help at www.alleycat.org/GetHelp or request a list of local resources, including spay/neuter clinics and community cat organizations at www.alleycat. org/Response.

About Alley Cat Allies

Alley Cat Allies, headquartered in Bethesda, Md., is the only national advocacy organization dedicated to the protection and humane treatment of cats. Founded in 1990, today Alley Cat Allies has more than 650,000 supporters and helps tens of thousands of individuals, communities and organizations save and improve the lives of millions of cats and kittens worldwide. Its website is www.alleycat.org, and Alley Cat Allies is active on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google+ and YouTube.

Media Contact: Lauren Tate 513-639-7461

Most communities that embrace a www.petconnections.pet 13

Holistic Pet Care

A

Acupuncture

By Dr. Doug Knueven, DVM, CVA, CVC, CVCH

cupuncture is the most widely practiced modality of holistic veterinary medicine. It involves the use of needles which are inserted into specific points on the body in order to affect a cure. In order to understand acupuncture it is necessary to recognize that the ancient Chinese had a much different way of looking at the body than we currently do in the West. For the ancient Chinese, health care was a way of life. Diet, exercise, massage, meditation, sleep patterns, work patterns, herbs and acupuncture were all integrated to maintain balance within the body. At the heart of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is the concept of Qi (pronounced “chee”).

Qi is regarded as the life force energy.

It is what differentiates the living from the dead and has both structural and functional qualities. Qi is that substance from which all physical form is composed.

It is also the energy that flows in a cyclic, orderly course throughout the channels of the body allowing for the normal functioning of organs and tissues.

In TCM, health is the state of harmonious flow of Qi and disease is caused by an interruption in this flow. Any time an organ is not functioning properly (as in kidney failure), or a limb is not moving freely (as with arthritis), we say there is a disturbance of Qi. The Chinese consider the acupuncture points as inlets to the channels. Through these inlets, the flow of Qi can be manipulated and re-balanced, allowing the body to heal itself. Today we know that acupuncture points have unique features. Biopsies have shown that these points have higher than normal numbers of nerve endings, blood vessels, and inflammatory cells. These features combine to amplify the effect of any

stimulation of these points.

From the Western standpoint, acupuncture stimulates nerves that can block pain perception. Also, pricking acupuncture points stimulates nerves that send signals to the brain to discharge healing substances. Studies have also shown that acupuncture can be used to cause the release of hormones including cortisone as well as endorphins, which are the body’s own morphine compounds. Acupuncture can also reduce muscle spasms, increase blood circulation, improve athletic performance and strengthen the immune system.

Acupuncture can help in the treatment of any medical condition including arthritis, kidney failure, liver failure, thyroid disease, asthma, back and joint injuries, vomiting, diarrhea, and reproductive problems. It can be used as an adjunct treatment for seizures and can even improve the quality of life for cancer patients.

When applied properly, this holistic approach does not cause side effects as drugs often do.

Acupuncture can be used alone or in conjunction with conventional therapies.

The biggest apprehension that most people have about acupuncture is that the needles will cause pain. In my experience, the patient rarely objects to the prick of the needles. As a matter of fact, some animals fall asleep during the treatment which may last from five to forty-five minutes depending on the problem being addressed. I’m more concerned about the remote possibility that the pet may decide to remove a needle with his mouth and then swallow it. In reality, the biggest obstacle to an acupuncture treatment is keeping the pet still while the needles work their magic. If the animal fidgets needles may fall out, which is not harmful but just not very helpful.

Acupuncture is not a panacea. Even in China it is only part of the medical system. If after eight to ten weekly

14 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

treatments there is no improvement in the patient, then acupuncture is probably not going to help. On the other hand, I have many patients who have given it two paws up.

Stoney was 14 years old when he was carried into my office by his owners. His rear legs had been paralyzed for seven weeks and conventional treatments had not helped.

X-rays revealed severe arthritis of his spine but that alone did not fully explain his condition. Possible causes for his neurologic deficit included a spinal tumor, a ruptured disc, or even a blood clot to the spinal cord.

An MRI or myelogram was needed to be sure of what the problem was, but his owners did not think it was in his best interest to put Stoney through those testes. Acupuncture was his last chance.

An aged pet with long standing rear leg paralysis does not warrant a rosy outlook and I was not optimistic about the ability of acupuncture to help him. After hearing about the acupuncture process and the poor prognosis, Stoney’s owners decided that they wanted to give him every chance they could and we proceeded with the treatment with hope in our hearts.

Stoney came to my office for weekly continued on page 15

treatments - right on schedule.

When his owners carried him in for his eighth session, I told them that I was seeing no improvement and suggested it was time to admit defeat. On the contrary, his owners were encouraged by the fact that he had begun to wag his tail so the treatments continued. You could have picked my jaw off the floor

when Stoney walked into my office two treatments later.

We were able to taper his treatments to every three to four weeks and maintain Stoney’s mobility. He enjoyed another three years with his owners until his body finally gave out and we put him to sleep at the age of 17. PC

www.petconnections.pet 15

Holistic WildlifePet Care

EFT for Your Precious Pet

I

t’s no secret that our pets pick up on our emotions. They sense how we’re getting along and especially how we are feeling.

When we’re under the weather, their kind faces stare at us as their inquisitive eyes convey, “What can I do to help you?”

Our pets’ purpose, from my perspective, is to receive and give love. Additionally, they show a desire to make our lives better and vice versa.

Understandably, when we are not feeling well, neither are they. Likewise, when our pets are ill, it affects us deeply. During those times, we can feel helpless. Yet worrying can be counter-productive, and instead of helping our pets, our negativity affects them since they intuit what we’re feeling.

Enter Emotional Freedom Techniques. You may already know of EFT or tapping, which is an easyto-learn, safe healing modality, where you “tap” on the meridian points of the body. Primarily a stress reducer for humans, EFT is equally effective for animals—and our pets.

Surrogate Tapping

Since animals are obviously unable to use EFT on themselves, that’s where we step in and tap for them. We can do this right on their bodies or indirectly through what is known as surrogate tapping. Although I have heard some EFT practitioners advise pet owners not to tap on their animals, my husband and I have done just that on many occasions. We tap lightly on the top of their heads and gently finger walk up and down their spines, sometimes even tapping on their little faces and bellies.

They love it!

Simply touching your pet can be soothing and conveys to your animal that you are concerned about their well-being. You know your pet’s disposition so determine which strategy is best to follow.

While tapping (either directly or indirectly), you can affirm, “You’re such a good kitty, dog, parrot or whatever endearment that resonates with your pet. One way our pets let us know that

tapping agrees with them is their body language. You’ll watch as they yawn, outstretch their arms (mimicking ‘downward dog’) or sink into the blanket and relish in what might feel like the ultimate feline or canine “massage.”

For the most part, they find it relaxing and judging from their feedback (purring; calm demeanor), that’s exactly what they needed to relax and relieve their stress (perhaps a grueling stint at vacuuming proved too overwhelming for them that day!).

Conversely, when they’re not in the mood to be tapped, they’ll inch away, giving us the message to back off and may even hiss.

Let me tell you of a cherished tapping experience I had with our beloved cat.

One day, ChloeBelle (a.k.a. Chloe), whom my husband rescued from a shelter, wasn’t feeling well. To provide you with a little background, Chloe was adopted when she was one year old and pretty much had spent more than six months in the shelter. Although it took a few weeks for her to adapt to her new environment, she was still skittish around my husband and me. Nevertheless, she adored Jack, innately aware that he had saved her from a life in a community atmosphere vying for attention from the staff with tons of other cats competing for their love.”

by Amy Ryan Rued

on the stairs and tap for her—and me!

After tapping for less than five minutes, first on my frustration, I then transitioned from being angry to sensing Chloe’s predicament and began sobbing. A palpable shift occurred in my body and instead of focusing on my feelings which had substantially subsided, I now accessed Chloe’s world. She was very sick and told me so. She lamented how horrible she felt, that her stomach really hurt, and it was getting worse. She didn’t want to make a mess on the rugs but she couldn’t hold it in any longer or make it to the litter and knew that upset me. At the same time, she related that the churning inside her gut was painful. I could feel her anguish. She further communicated that her tummy was bloated and the nausea was unbearable. I ceased being mad at Chloe and felt heartless for not understanding what she was going through, for not being compassionate. And experienced guilt for being so insensitive.

After tapping that away, I continued to tap, my only wish: for Chloe’s considerable discomfort to end.

Then it was time to leave for my meeting.

When I returned home later that afternoon, I eyed Chloe sitting in her normal spot on the back of Jack’s chair. Upon seeing me, she jumped down and headed in my direction. I thought she might have been thirsty but she purposely walked to me and as I sat down on the stairs, she began licking my hands. She had never, ever done that! I was stunned.

Chloe was telling me that not only was she well but that she greatly appreciated my efforts to make her healthy.

Chloe and Jack had been companions for more than two years before I entered the picture. And while she fawned incessantly over him, she pretty much didn’t give me the time of day.

Since animals are not able to verbalize (except, of course, “Mr. Ed,” the talking horse) how they feel and what they are experiencing, we can be their voice. We can “tune in and tap,” connect with our pets energetically and concentrate on their issue or behavior that you want to alleviate.

Fast forward several years. As I was getting ready to leave for a meeting, I was interrupted more than once by Chloe regurgitating in the living room. That wasn’t the worse part. In addition to scooping up the vomit on the rug (eww!), I now had to scrub the stains and deodorize the carpet after Chloe missed the kitty litter—several times.

To recap, when using surrogate tapping, it’s imperative that you clear your emotions before you address those of your pet. Had I surrogate tapped for Chloe without first clearing my frustration, it’s doubtful it would have worked, and most likely, the energy would have remained stuck in Chloe’s body (and mine) and would have done little to nothing to relieve her illness.

That’s when I decided to sit

If this seems feasible to you, simply tap gently on the top of your pet’s head and see what happens. I’d love to hear about your experience; send me an email at: TappingWithFriends@gmail.com.

Next time, we’ll delve more into EFT and your pets! PC

16 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Nithyanandeshwara Hindu Temple Ohio Celebrating Companion Animals from the Space of Advitha—Each One is Part of the Whole.

Inner Awakening The most profound inner journey to awaken who you really are

Inner Awakening® is a 21-day spiritual transformation program in India that awakens you to your natural intelligence through yoga at all levels of body and mind. Deriving various techniques and processes from the Vedic scriptures and teachings like Shiva Agamas, Inner Awakening® offers a powerful awakening of the Kundalini Shakti, one’s inner potential, through meditation, spiritual processes, yoga, pranayama, kriyas, and the powerful Shivoham process.

How will Inner Awakening enrich my life?

The Awakening of the Kundalini energy by the power of initiation by a rare living incarnation in just 21 days gives you access to a whole new realm of living. The program works on all the basic dimensions of your life, allowing you to experience deep healing at the physical, mental and emotional levels and the ultimate experience of enlightenment.

You gain a state of deep inner peace coupled with tremendous productivity and creativity.

Becoming constantly aware of every moment provides you with astonishing clarity to fully live the life you love!

For upcoming dates: www.innerawakening.org To register: http://tiny.cc/awakening-petc

Nithyanandeshwara Hindu Temple Ohio Aadheenam 820 Pollock Road • Delaware, OH 43015 614-571-8425 • meetup.com/Meditation-and-Yoga-for-Wellness youtube.com/lifeblissfoundation

Nithyanandeshwara Hindu Temple is a traditional Shiva temple and the spiritual center for the teachings of enlightened master Paramahamsa Nithyananda in the Ohio region. Located on the banks of the Olentangy River, the temple is a peaceful, serene energy field designed to elevate consciousness.

The temple offers free meditation, yoga, Sattvic cooking classes, and spiritual solutions for life.

Paramahamsa Nithyananda is revered, regarded, respected and worshipped as the Avatar (living incarnation) of superconsciousness by millions across the globe. He is also the spiritual head of Mahanirvani Peetha, the oldest and largest apex body of Hinduism.

He and his global spiritual community are serving humanity by reviving the science of completion, science of Enlightenment and manifesting various extraordinary spiritual powers as per the Vedic Agamic tradition of Sanatana Hindu Dharma. He is author of 350 books, which are translated and published in 500 titles and various international languages.

His Sangha has a strong presence worldwide through numerous Temples, Aadheenams (Temple monastery complex), Gurukuls (Vedic schools), universities and goshalas (cow shelters).

His live spiritual discourses can be viewed every evening online at nithyananda.tv at 9:30 pm EST. Recorded discourses can be viewed at youtube.com/ lifeblissfoundation.

Wellness For Guardians

PBJ Connections is the leader in EAGALA model EAP in Central Ohio

E

Holly Jedlicka, MSW, LISW-S, Executive Director at PBJ Connections

quine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) at PBJ Connections follows the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) model of therapy. The EAGALA model uses a team of a licensed mental health professional, an equine specialist, and horses or donkeys to provide solution-oriented mental health therapy. The model is also completely non-riding and follows a strict code of ethics.

In EAP sessions, participants are asked to project their feelings and thoughts onto the horses and the environment and then facilitators help them process through difficult situations and issues.

Equines are powerful in the therapeutic setting because they are social prey animals. Horses are honest all the time due to of their nature, which means they give honest feedback to participants throughout the session.

Their social nature also causes them to interact with the participants as if they are members of their herd and, through their behavior, place them in the hierarchy in which they belong. If participants are not being honest or are incongruent the horses will view them as predators and will interact accordingly, by moving away or protecting themselves.

EAGALA is the leading model of mental health therapy using horses. PBJ Connections is proud to have EAGALA certified staff working directly with clients. For 18 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

more information on EAGALA visit their web page at www.eagala.org.

PBJ Connections is the leader in EAGALA model EAP in Central Ohio. Working out of four locations, they provide services for youth, families and adults through six distinct programs. Focusing on mental health therapy, PBJ Connections provides EAP, traditional office therapy visits, and group therapy for youth. They also have a Family Coaching program that helps families work through relational problems throughout a six week curriculum.

Other programs offered by PBJ Connections include Wellness Workshops for women over age 40 through Mt. Carmel’s My Time program; PBJ@Work, which is a corporate team building program; and On Mission, which is a group learning program for Veterans.

To learn more or to talk to a staff member, please visit us at www.pbjconnections.org.

You can also contact them at 740-924-7543 or via email at info@pbjconnections.org. PC

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www.petconnections.pet 19

Equine Affairs

What Horses Say… Are We Listening?

By Kristin Hermann

Author Kristin Hermann and her horse Blythedale, Circa 1986

W

hat Horses Say; How To Hear, Help and Heal Them, is a book written by British author’s Anna Clemence Mews and Julie Dicker. Animal Communicator Julie Dicker “interviewed” over two thousand horses.

How did she do that? Well, intuitively of course! She is a talented healer and Animal Communicator who can translate what horses feel and think by making a direct connection with their hearts and minds.

When I was introduced to this book, at a beauty salon of all places, I immediately turned to the page where the author asked horses about how they feel when they are ridden! I was fascinated by what the horses said. The horse’s said they do not mind being ridden, but they would rather be able to understand what the rider wants! The book What Horses Say says, “The most frequent complaint was about poor communication and riders failing to give clear and understandable instructions.” Ahh ha! I thought, this is what I say to my students all the time!

The rider needs to learn to ride with clarity, so the horse understands. This is what the “basic riding position” of the rider is all about: getting in the correct position, so the horse understands the rider no matter what type of riding you engage in whether English or Western. A horse needs a rider to send clear signals. Your communication will always be unclear if you do not have a good basic riding position.

I often use learning to play a musical instrument as an example for learning how to ride a horse. The rider is the musician, and the horse is the instrument, and if the rider is not correctly placed on the instrument or the horse, the ride they experience together will always be out of tune.

This is what I aim to do in my riding lessons, teach riders how to ride in the correct riding position, so they are riding in harmony with the horse. If the rider’s body is not correctly positioned on the

horse to play or ride it correctly, they will not be in harmony, and the horse will constantly be saying, “What does this rider want?” This ‘short circuiting’ between the communication from rider to the horse is too common.

Often, rider’s try to hard and are uncoordinated, stiff or give conflicting cues, and the signals they give the horse are misunderstood. Once again, the horse is saying, “What does this rider want?” Horses are submissive by nature, and they try their best to understand.

When there is a total misunderstanding between the horse and rider and the horse does not do what the rider wants, who gets blamed? The horse!

“You people.” as the King of Horsemanship would say: George Morris.

It is simple communication. Riders must learn how to ride in the correct riding position and then learn how to use the aids to signal the horse in timing with the horse’s gaits and rhythms so that both human and horse are communicating in sync. When a rider finds this connection with the horse, it is called ‘equestrian tact.’

In the book “What Horses Say,” Julie discovered from the horses that another big complaint were saddles that do not fit. A bad fitting saddle can cause a variety of problems that can be cumulative, as there is no saddle for all seasons. Horses backs change, and we need to get the saddles checked at least yearly by a saddle fitter. This can be expensive, so until you can afford the saddle fitter start to educate yourself by reading or watching saddle fitting videos on Youtube. Yes, horses are expensive.

They don’t call it the “Sport of Kings” for no reason.

Another complaint horses had according to Julie, are when the shoes were too small. I had this issue with one of my horses. The shoes were too small, and the toes were too long. My Spanish Norman,

20 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Bracchus, was always about two percent off. After x-rays had confirmed the toes were too long, I reluctantly changed farriers and then my horse went one hundred percent sound. The new farrier also put shoes on that were two sizes bigger. It never occurred to me that shoes could be too small for a horse. We all trust our farriers, but when my girlfriend, who suspected they were too tight, said, “Imagine if you wore shoes that were too small?” It finally hit home in this small noggin of mine. Sometimes, it’s just the simple comments that make sense.

Another complaint from the horses were cold bits! At Coventry Equestrian Center we have a heated bathroom, and the bridles hang in there to become all toasty until the next horse is mounted and asked to accept the bit. My horses did not have to tell me this one, I mean who wants cold metal in their mouth on a freezing day?

Bad smells are another concern to horses.

Think about it, their noses are so big, (their noses are their whole head!) and their sense of smell is articulate. Julie says in the book What Horses Say, “…horses make an assessment of us through their sense of smell,…” therefore strong perfumes, tobacco, and alcohol make certain horses uncomfortable.

These are just some of the key points that I picked up on reading the book What Horses Say. I think anyone who owns a horse would find this a fascinating and light-hearted read. It is not based on scientific fact but from an Animal Communicator who loves horses and was interested in what they had to say. Any of us who own horses know that we share a bond with our horses like we do our dogs or cats. Our “fur animals” are connected to us in ways we may not understand but “fur sure” it’s a heart connection.

Not being able to understand some my animals at times I often consult an Animal Communicator. I might not always like what she has to say, but I listen because she reads the energy field of my horses, dogs or cats and they know best. Our animals cannot talk to us in words. We have to read their signals, be open to the messages from their hearts and emotions and hopefully listen with our own intuition to What They Say. PC In 1997 I wrote an article entitled ‘Communications between Homo Sapiens and Equus.’ by Kristin Hermann that was published in the magazine Dressage & CT. To read this article go to this link http://blythdale.tripod.com/ coventryequestriancenter/id41.html

Remembrance

Sierra Sierra,

The love and joy your brought into our home is immeasurable. You were quick to love and quick to learn. Lexi, Sophie and I adored you, and still think of you daily. You taught us so many things in your short time here, including helping my girls learn to work together.

Your absence is still so strongly felt, as our hearts will forever covered with your paw prints. -JC

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