Central Ohio PetConnections Ohio July Aug 2016 Vol. 2 Issue 4

July/August 2016 Volume 2 • Issue 4

CENTRAL OHIO

PetConnections wellness through the human-animal bond

FREE

Happy Birthday!

Central Ohio’s #1 Resource for Everything Pets

Table of Contents

2 EVENTS

4

Human-Animal Bond Animal Communication

8

5 FEATURED ORGANIZATION All Life Community Pet Health & Wellness 14 Things You Should Never Feed Your Pet

10 ADVERTISER LOCATOR MAP

14

Holistic Pet Care

11 DIRECTORIES

Holistic – Body, Mind, and SPIRIT

PetConnections Magazine

AMEMBERSHIP VIP 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

6 RESCUE & SHELTER Puppy Mill Awareness

16 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-

| July/August 2016 Volume 2 • Issue 4

12 KITTY KORNER Cat Scratch Fever 18 WELLNESS FOR GUARDIANS Letting Go of Resentments 20 WILDLIFE Birding For Beginners Inside Back Cover REMEMBRANCE

Equine Affairs Straight Lines and Circles, Oh My!

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.

Membership payments may also be mailed to 154 Lutes Road, Finleyville, 15332 or call to process your credit card securely: 724-503-8695 You may email additional inquiries and questions to: info@pghpetconnections.com

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

1

Events Saturday September 17th CHA Animal Shelter

PICNIC WITH THE PUPS Chaanimalshelter.org

April - Oct. PAWS IN THE PLAZA WHEN: First Thursday of every month. Starts at 4:30. End time varies according to sunset.

WHAT: A special evening to spend with your favorite four-legged friend WHERE: all around the Olde Gahanna downtown area / Mill Street / Creekside Plaza.

(117 Mill St.) (Gahanna Exit/Rt 62) www.oldegahanna.com/paws_in_the_plaza

Sat. September 24

COZY CAT’S 13TH ANNUAL SILENT AUCTION & WINE TASTING Cedar Brook Garden Center 6058 Glick Road Powell OH. 43065 www.cozycatcottage.org

Saturday, September 24 Capital Area Humane Society

10TH ANNUAL DEFEND YOUR FRIEND 5K RUN•WALK 8:00 AM Scioto Audubon Metro Park 400 W. Whittier St. www.cahs-pets.org/i-want-to-help/special-events

PetConnections Pet Expo Symposium & Gala!

October 15 & 16th, 2016 Greater Columbus Convention Center

Sat. August 20, 2016 ll page See the fu ad on the r! back cove

www.petconnections.pet/PetConnections-Pet-Care-Expo-Gala/ info@pghpetconnections.com 2 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | July/August 2016

WAG! FEST

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Prairie Oaks Metro Park Darby Bend Lakes Area Hilliard, OH

www.wagfest.com

From the Publisher Welcome to our Central Ohio PetConnections Magazine July/August 2016 Volume 2 • Issue 4 News & Events PetConnections is also now producing our own new breed of pet exposition encompassing the theme of Education and Community, in alignment with of our award-winning magazine! www.petconnections.pet/PetConnections-Pet-CareExpo-Gala.

See our line-up of speakers and topics! We are offering a dynamic combination of education seminars with veterinarians and pet experts at our Pet Symposium, along with exhibits offering the latest and greatest in pet and home products and services, with local pet businesses and organizations, along with entertainment, and also a Gala to benefit community organizations, like HAAWC the Human-Animal Advocacy & Wellness Centers, Inc. for pet-related programming. (haawc.org). See our ad on the back cover!

The Third Annual Pet Adoption event at Byers Airport Subaru was fantastic and we would like to recognize the team – Lindsay & Shane, as well as, Carol Palmer, Jeannie, Rebecca and Joe, Denise Redmond, Jan Cooper, Brenda Mortimer, Cassie, Nolan & Avery, for all their hard work in making this a terrific event for local adoptable pets!

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES PLEASE SUBMIT ANY CORRESPONDENCE TO: info@pghpetconnections.com 412-738-4233 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.

MAGAZINE PUBLICATION STAFF Carla Mader, Managing Editor Susan Wagner, DVM, Content Editor Jaimee D. Greenawalt, Art Director Carla Mader, Sales & Distribution Manager 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.

All Rights Reserved | Copyright 2016

Please see our event page for our summer listings, including WAG! Fest, Paws in the Plaza, 10th Annual Defend Your Friend 5K Walk, Picnic with Pups and more.

This Issue Our cover for this issue features All Life Community for Integrative Well Being and Gabriel, the Great Dane, owned by Deb Joseph, Business Manager. Read more in our featured article and the celebration of the 3rd year anniversary on page 5. The photos are by Francesca Poliseno, one of All Life Community interns. We thank the All Life Community for contributing and also sponsoring our Wellness for Guardian section.

Also read about 14 Things You Should Never Feed Your Pet, Animal Communication, Straight Lines and Circles and Birding for Beginners, by the Ohio Wildlife Center, and more in this issue!

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.

Subscribe today for your own personal bi-monthly copy of PetConnections and VIP Membership and become part of the Petconnections Community! www.petconnections.pet/subscribe The award-winning Pittsburgh PetConnections edition started publishing monthly in September of 2012-14 and is now bimonthly and multi-regional. PetConnections has grown to be the #1 free resource for news, expert information on everything pets, as well as wellness for people with the PetConnections directories, event calendars both online and in print, in both Central Ohio and Pittsburgh. Our award-winning content was recognized by the Dog Writers Association of America.

See how PetConnections can help you market and advertise with content which supports your message with our multi-media partnership packages! Our a partnership with BENN Advertising Solutions offer 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 info@pghpetconnections.com. PetConnections is also looking to grow our team with additional sales account manager professionals.

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

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. Take care of yourself and your pets this Summer season and be well!

Warmly, Carla Mader, Publisher - Pittsburgh & Central Ohio PetConnections Magazine

Cover photo: Gabriel, by Francesca Poliseno

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 www.petconnections.pet

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Human-Animal Bond

Animal Communication

U

By Jen Ortman

nderstanding what your pet is thinking or feeling can be a daunting task. Without verbal skills, or our ability to speak their language, we are left to follow physical cues to understand their needs. This is true, unless you enlist the help of a professional Animal Communicator. Simply put animal communication is the “interspecies exchange of information, using a heart-based connection. The science is based largely on Quantum Physics, and can be accomplished either verbally, or intuitively.

We all talk to our pets- you know you do! And although studies indicate that our furry companions understand most of what we’re saying, most people don’t “hear them” reply. Animals who are strongly connected to their human have access to the “mental movie” that plays in the biped’s mind. For example, as you contemplate weekend plans, you think of what you’re going to do, and when. We have reason to believe that strongly-connected pets take information from this natural practice. And because it’s not a perfect process, there are people that can help with translation.

Animal Communicators utilize several techniques in their communication exchange with your pet.

After a strong, heart-based introduction is established, some of the skills utilized may include telepathy, intuition, claircognizance (knowing), and clairsentience (touch). Communicators don’t “read” your pet’s body language, or look for information on the internet beforehand. Because the energetic exchange of information between the human and the animal is based on Quantum Physics, Animal Communication is equally as effective when performed live or remotely.

Therefore, a professional Communicator should be able to offer both types of sessions. The same principle applies to animals that are living and deceased. Because energy is not destroyed, animals in the afterlife communicate just as living ones do.

Although the ability to communicate with animals can be learned by anyone, some individuals have the natural capability. Currently, there is no national program for certification, so 4 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | July/August 2016

asking questions is important before agreeing to do business with a communicator. Some questions might include the length of a session, how the professional works, and if they have references. Also learn what areas the communicator specializes in, such as lost pets, medical intuition, or general communication.

How do you locate a Communicator to work with? Start by asking if friends or acquaintances have had an experience with one. If you’re willing to do a remote, or phone session, your options increase substantially, even globally. Many can be found using an internet search, or even through local pet events and shows. It’s very important to find an individual you’re comfortable working with, and one that you feel gives you accurate information.

The pet owner’s state of mind is critical for the success of a communication session. If there is any doubt on their part, or from someone joining the session with them, information coming from the pet to the Communicator can be blocked. An open mind allows for the natural, energetic flow of information to unfold between the professional and your pet. It is highly uncommon that a pet “just doesn’t want to talk today”; however, if the owner is blocking the flow energetically, communication may not be possible.

As a pet owner, working with an Animal Communicator can be an invaluable experience.

The information gained from a session provides a completely new dimension to the interactions with your pet, and gives a new understanding to some of the things that may have been unexplained in the past. There are three substantial ways this partnership can enhance the relationship you have with your fur-kids.

Changes in companion animal behavior can be the result of medical issues, the loss or introduction of a pet, or household stress, just to name a few. In working with an Animal Communicator, your pet may be able to provide information that explains some of the behavior. Because the process is two-fold, you are able to express your wishes to your pet during the session. It’s important to note that animals have “free will”.

They can change their mind, just like people do.

Communication is an effective tool in understanding why your pet is behaving in a certain

way, but considering free will, they may abandon their commitment to your requested changes.

In cases of medical mysteries, Animal Communicators can often shed light on how your pet is feeling, how something happened, and even where they hurt. Professionals will never prescribe or diagnose, but working in partnership with your veterinarian, treatment may be expedited, and your animal’s comfort may be enhanced.

One highly memorable session is that of “Spade”, a small terrier filled with anxiety. When his owner brought him in for a session, he communicated freely. Through the process of talking with Spade, he shared that he felt “clogged up” in his throat, and that he had a hard time controlling his anger. He also felt that his owner didn’t feed him enough, even though he was overweight.

As the session continued, it became clear that Spade would benefit from a medical work up, and his veterinarian was consulted. After a thyroid test, Spade’s owner learned that his levels were abnormal, and that he needed medication. Along with other concerns that Spade shared in his session, changes were made, and Spade is now a calm and content little dog.

End life care, hospice, and euthanasia is one of the fastest growing areas of Animal Communication. Working together from the time of the initial diagnosis until the final journey across the rainbow bridge, a partnership with a Communicator can provide immeasurable comfort in honoring your pet’s wishes, understanding their comfort, and even helping them cross the bridge.

The process of Animal Communication helps to understand what your pet’s comfort or pain level is, and how they are responding to treatment.

When it’s time for them to leave us, guided crossing with the help of a Communicator provides immeasurable comfort. Keeping in mind that this process can be done via phone, the internet, and in person, the potential to access end life services is vast! Animal Communication enhances your relationship with your pet in a way most people never thought was possible. Whether it’s a new puppy or a cat saying goodbye, consider giving communication a try. You’ll be glad you did. PC

Featured Organization

Happy Birthday, ALC!

O

n July 14, 2016, the All Life Community celebrated its 3rd birthday! While over the past three years this community has come to mean different things to each of us, at the core of the Center’s identity is the concept of the Third Place.

The Third Place is a term used to describe a gathering place separate from the two primary environments of the home and the workplace. In his book, The Great Good Place, Ray Oldenburg says that Third Places are important for civil engagement, democracy and establishing a sense of community.

All societies have long included informal meeting places. However, Third Places are anchors of community life and facilitate broader, more creative interaction. In our modern society rife with self-imposed digital disconnection, people are intentionally creating and seeking out Third Places. Some of the hallmarks of a Third Place are as follows: • Food and Drink – Nourishment and enjoyment are an integral part of the culture in a Third Place, and refreshments help set the tone.

• Choice and Freedom – Occupants of Third Places have little to no obligation to be there. They are not tied to the place financially, politically, legally, or in any other way and are free to come and go as they please. This conscious choice to be in the Third Place because it feels good brings a relaxed and positive energy to the space.

By Carisa Holmes

The Great Equalizer – In a Third Place, social or economic status is irrelevant, fostering a sense of commonality and equality among its occupants.

• C onversation is Key – Authentic connection and conversation among the visitors is one of the main activities in a Third Place.

• T he Regulars – Third Places harbor a number of regulars that help set the mood and culture. Regulars also attract and embrace newcomers, and help them feel welcome and accommodated. Both new friends and old mix in harmony.

• A Home Away From Home – Occupants of Third Places will often have the same feelings of warmth and belonging as they would in their own homes. They feel a piece of themselves is rooted in the space and gain spiritual regeneration by spending time there.

While some of our Members view ALC as a workplace, some others view it as a Third Place, or a combination of the two. The juxtaposition of work and play creates a sweet spot where “the regulars” help the new people integrate and feel welcome. And, all one needs to do is step into our kitchen or community room to witness how sharing refreshments and authentic conversation are the centerpiece of the social culture.

Over the past three years here at All Life, we have come from 46 members at the end of the first year to the current membership of 156. We have come from a steel skeleton in the snow to a beautifully resonant atrium that has been used for joyful celebrations

THREE YEARS AS A THIRD PLACE! and ceremonies, healing gatherings and more.

We have taken a wild ravine and bridged the gap, allowing easier access to nature and rejuvenation for all.

We have come from barren space and empty beds to abundant harvests of beautiful medicine that we share with Members and visitors alike.

And perhaps more importantly, we have come from concepts to offerings, from need to resource and from few to many. We have come from birth into flowering, and discovered along the way that All Life is an entity of eternal spring; ever ripening, always becoming.

It is with great gratitude and excitement that we have witnessed the All Life Community becoming all we had hoped, and growing in ways we couldn’t have imagined.

We invite you to explore All Life as your Third Place. Come enjoy a cup of tea, chat with the regulars, and be accepted, supported and welcomed by old and new friends alike. Walk the grounds, sit in the sun, listen to the birds and absorb the nourishment this place has to offer. You may even find that All Life becomes your second and Third Place.

How lovely would that be? PC

www.petconnections.pet

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Rescue & Shelter

PUPPY MILL AWARENESS

By Lynn Ready-Aspiotes

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wo cities in Ohio, Toledo and Grove City which are approximately 150 miles apart, recently enacted bans on selling commercially bred dogs. Those bans, however, are now in jeopardy of being superseded by the state. Two bills, House Bill 573 and Senate Bill 331, would simply require pet stores to provide all puppy buyers with the name and address of the breeder, the USDA license number of the breeder, and a copy of the most current Department of Agriculture Inspection Report for the breeder.

If you want to join the fight against puppy mills, we encourage you to speak up to your local, state, and federal legislators.

Always keep in mind the easiest way to help the dogs on commercial kennels is to adopt from shelters, reputable rescue organizations, or responsible breeders.

More on “Pet Store Double Speak” and other facts on puppy mills can be found at http://www.humanesociety.org/issues/ puppy_mills/facts/pet_store_doublespeak.html.

Pittsburgh Puppy Mill Awareness is a group of dog lovers who came together in 2015 when we became increasingly concerned about the welfare of dogs and puppies on large-scale commercial kennels.

The reason for the increased concern is because many of those puppies are shipped to and sold in some of the Pittsburgh area’s pet stores from Midwestern states. It’s been happening for years and we feel that it’s finally time that something is done to help reduce euthanasia rates in shelters and lessen the demand for commercially bred dogs. A 6 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | July/August 2016

puppy mill by definition is, “an establishment that breeds puppies for sale, typically on an intensive basis and in conditions regarded as inhumane.”

We feel that while a large portion of Americans understand the big picture and the need to discontinue purchasing puppies from pet stores, many people still don’t know, and understandably so. It’s not always particularly easy to make the connection. When people see the adorable

A puppy mill by definition is, “an establishment that breeds puppies for sale, typically on an intensive basis and in conditions regarded as inhumane.”

Designed by The Proper Pit Bull

puppies in the window, the natural reaction is that we want to take them home.

The problem is that as long as there’s a demand for pet store puppies, suppliers keep producing.

People often ask, “But what if we don’t save the dogs in the stores? What will happen to them?” Pet stores continue to drop the prices on the dogs until someone eventually does buy them.

The best option is that if you want a puppy, first visit one of the many great local shelters in our area. By adopting from a shelter, you are given the satisfaction that you truly rescued a homeless dog who might not have otherwise had a chance. There are an estimated 2-3 million pets across the country each year who never make it out of shelters. Consider the fact that it is also estimated by the Humane Society of the United States that 2 million puppies are sold from commercial kennels each year in pet stores. By choosing adoption as the only option, together we can help end put an end to pet homelessness. But that means a firm no to pet stores everywhere that sell mill dogs. It should be noted that not ALL commercial kennels are puppy mills.

Because we want to provide unbiased facts, we’ve gathered evidence from some stores in the area’s region linking purchased puppies to USDA certified kennels in the Midwest. When people hear “USDA certified,” unfortunately, most think that means the kennel must be clean and the dogs properly socialized with regular veterinarian visits. This typically isn’t the case. Don’t be fooled when a pet store worker tells you that the

continued on page 13

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 our 4 objectives:



Assistance with veterinary care, pet medications, pet food programs

  

Animal-assisted activities

Educational seminars & workshops Research on the Human-Animal Bond www.haawc.org

www.petconnections.pet

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Pet Health & Wellness

14 Things You Should Never Feed Your Pet

By Dr. Mary Beth Leininger

S

ummer is a great time to enjoy outdoor gatherings, like picnics and barbecues, with friends, family, and your pet. Just be sure to keep an eye on your four-legged pal around all of that food, especially the potentially harmful items on this list.

pet’s red blood cells making them unable to circulate oxygen. Watch that your pet doesn’t gobble up any garlic or onion pieces that might drop on the floor while you’re prepping a meal. Be careful with pearl onions too. They taste sweeter and may be more tempting for your pet to nosh on.

1. C hocolate – Chocolate contains stimulants that can cause big problems for your pet, including an elevated heart rate and seizures.

Watch your pet around popular summer desserts, such as brownies and chocolate ice cream.

8. S alt – Too much salt can lead to iodine poisoning and damage your pet’s kidneys. Keep your pet away from bags or bowls of salty snacks, like pretzels, potato chips, or popcorn, which are often around at social gatherings.

2. X ylitol – This substitute sweetener can cause sudden liver failure. It’s used in many foods that could be around at your next summer get-together, including desserts, yogurt, and some brands of peanut butter.

3. Gum and Candy – Gum and candy sweetened with Xylitol are dangerous to pets, but these treats can be harmful for other reasons too.

They can cause choking or create gastrointestinal blockages if swallowed.

9. Raw yeast dough – It can be fun to make soft pretzels or fresh bread for an event, but watch that your pet doesn’t get into the rising dough. The yeast that makes it rise can expand in your pet’s tummy and cause painful bloating and gas. It can also cause alcohol intoxication, since yeast releases alcohol as it ferments.

where you leave iced or hot tea. You should also toss out used tea bags in a garbage can with a secure lid. If you’re making a batch of sun tea, be sure your pet can’t get into it or knock it over while it’s brewing.

14. A lcohol – In addition to making pets feel drunk, alcohol can affect their nervous system and even lead to coma and death. Keep an eye on your pet during summer parties where alcoholic drinks may be left around.

If your pet ingests something toxic, an ASPCA Pet Health Insurance plan can help you manage the costs of care. It also has coverage for other summer related issues, such as heatstroke, bee stings, and snakebites. It can even cover treatment if your pet gobbles up a corncob, which happens to be on our list of top 10 most expensive claims for this past year not once, but twice!* Visit www.IsYourPetCovered.com to learn more about the options for your pet.

10. S poiled foods – There are all kinds of toxic items lurking in the garbage that can give your pet a stomachache or worse. Throw out spoiled food where your pet can’t get at it and be aware of any open garbage cans that might be around when you’re at the park or other outdoor places with your pet.

* Source: ASPCA Pet Health Insurance internal claims data 2015-2016.

11. F atty foods – Your pet might beg for picnic favorites, like hot dogs, ribs, or fried chicken, but they can cause an upset tummy, vomiting, and diarrhea. In more serious cases, fatty foods can lead to inflammation of the pancreas.

Plans are underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company and administered by Fairmont Specialty Insurance Agency (FSIA Insurance Agency in CA), companies of Crum & Forster. C&F and Crum & Forster are registered trademarks of United State Fire Insurance Company. The Crum & Forster group of companies is rated A (Excellent) by AM Best Company 2015.

6. A vocados – These fruits (and yes, they are fruits!) contain a substance called persin, which can be harmful to pets. Make sure you keep your pet’s nose out of the guacamole bowl.

12. Coffee – Like chocolate, coffee has caffeine in it, which can be harmful to your pet. Avoid leaving hot or iced coffee where your pet could lap it up, and keep whole or ground coffee beans stored somewhere safe from curious noses.

The ASPCA® does not offer insurance. Through a strategic licensing agreement, in exchange for the use of ASPCA trademarks, the ASPCA is paid a royalty fee of up to 10% of the purchase price, with a minimum of $335,000 per year. PC

7. O nions and Garlic – Onions and garlic contain a toxic substance that can damage your

13. T ea leaves – Tea leaves also contain caffeine, which means you need to be careful

4. G rapes and Raisins – Even a few grapes or raisins can cause severe problems for your pet.

Be sure to keep bowls or bags of them out of paw’s reach and be careful with fruit salads, which often contain grapes.

5. M acadamia Nuts – These nuts are toxic to pets and can result in symptoms such as an upset tummy, vomiting, and tremors. Take care not to leave them out anywhere your pet can get at them.

8 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | July/August 2016

The information herein is summarized. All pet insurance plans have limitations and exclusions. Specific products and features may vary by state, eligibility, and are subject to change. Reimbursements are based on a percentage of usual and customary eligible costs.

Say goodbye to cold concrete, gravel, mulch, muddy yards, and dirty paws—K9Grass is the solution you have been looking for.

K9Grass.com Safe • Drainable • Cleanable • Durable

Call today for your free consultation:

844.614.TURF(8873) foreverlawnohio.com

The artificial grass designed specifically for dogs!

The Getaway at Glen Highland Farm

Escape to the NY countryside where you and your dog can let loose 175 acres of off-leash adventures await!

• explore miles of gorgeous trails through deep forest and open meadows • splash & swim in the spring-fed pond and winding creek • kick back & relax in the sun • jump into agility • share dog tales with other dog lovers who love their dog as much as you do • unwind by a toasty campfire under a blanket of shining stars

There is no other place on earth for dog lovers to Getaway like this!

Stay in one of our full-amenity RVs, get comfy in one of our cottages or cabins, or camp in the woods in our spacious tents.

Let go.

All proceeds benefit our on-site Border Collie rescue – feel good knowing your vacation dollars help dogs in need!

Book your Getaway today!

www.glenhighlandgetaway.com www.petconnections.pet

9

Advertiser Locator Inside Front Cover ASPCA Page 15 A Beaver Animal Clinic Page 7 Best Breed Page 10 B Canine Health Inside Back Cover C Crystal Remembrance for Pets Page 19 Fan Reps

Page 7 Fundvelopes Page 9 The Getaway at Glen Highland Farm Page 7 HAAWC Page 19 Judith Levy Page 9 K9 Grass

D

Call: 614-937-8309 www.peggymills.lifevantage.com

10 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | July/August 2016

Directories Adoption, Rescues & Shelters

Avian & Exotics

MedVet Medical & Cancer Centers for Pets (Hilliard) 614-870-0480 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 centralohioridingclub.com Equus Now! 740-549-4959 Equusnow.com OSU Veterinary Medical Center 614-292-6661 vet.osu.edu/vmc/

Landscaping & Lawncare Forever Lawn 844.614.TURF(8873) foreverlawnohio.com Good Nature Organic Lawn Care 888-529-6723 www.whygoodnature.com PetButler of Central Ohio 1-800-PET-BUTLER www.petbutler.com

Pet Burial, Cremation & Memorial Services

Crystal Remembrance for Pets 888-930-7363 Crystalremembranceforpets.com Day Manofsky Funeral Service 614-532-5012 Daymanofskyfuneralservice.com Rutherford Funeral Homes 614-885-4006 Rutherfordfuneralhomes.com Schoedinger Pet Services 614-224-2691 schoedingerpetservices.com

Pet Fencing

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

Pet-Friendly Auto Dealerships Central Ohio Area Byers Subaru (877) 265-2083 www.columbussubaru.com

Pet Friendly Lodging

The Getaway at Glen Highland Farm Glenhighlandgeatway.com

Pet Insurance

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance 1-888-716-1203 aspcapetinsurance.com

Pet Resorts- Boarding, Daycare, Grooming, Agility & Training

ARF! Agility and Rally for Fun! www.arfagility.com Advanced Boarding & Grooming 740-549-9999 advancedboardingandgrooming.com Camp Bow Wow 614-527-2267 campbowwow.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 petpalaceresort.com The Dog Spaw Pet Grooming 614-245-4169 thedogspawsalon.com/ Willow Wood Pet Resort & Training Center 614-304-1921 petresortwillowwood.com

Pet Retail, Supply and Accessories

April Minech Custom Portraits/Pet Inspired Art www.LadybugDelightz.etsy.com Best Breed Holistic Pet Nutrition Bestbreed.com Canine Health Supplements www.peggymills.lifevantage.com

Collar Doos collardoos.com Fan Reps Legwarmers and More 412-439-3063 www.fanreps.com Moochie & Co. moochieandco.com Natural Inspirations Parrot Cages Naturalinspirationsparrotcages.com Pet People petpeoplestores.com Pawdentify and Links-It Collar Tags www.pawdentify.com Plexidor plexidors.com Kobi Collars kobicollars.com

Pharmacies

Central Ohio Compounding Pharmacy 614-847-0109 www.compoundingpharmacycolumbus.com SBH Medical- Compounding Pharmacy 614-847-6007 www.sbhmed.com

Veterinary Medicine

Elemental Veterinary Center & Pet Spa 614-824-4036 elementalvetcenter.com Lifetime Pet Wellness Center 614-888-2100 lifetimepetwellness.com Health & Harmony Animal Hospital 614-360-3941 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 medvetforpets.com OSU Veterinary Medical Center 614-292-3551 vet.osu.edu/vmc/

Wellness for Guardians:

The All Life Community for Integrative Well Being 740-201-8242 www.alllifecenter.org Judith Levy Coaching www.judithlevycoaching.com

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 (2275) www.cci.org/northcentral Capital Area Humane Society 614-777-7387 cahs-pets.org CHA Animal Shelter 614-891-5280 chaanimalshelter.org Colony Cats Adoption Center 614-593-0055 Colonycats.org Columbus Dog Connection 614-471-9000 Columbusdogconnection.com Cozy Cat Cottage Adoption Center 614-336-8510 cozycatcottage.org Franklin County Dog Shelter & Adoption Center 614-525-3647 franklincountydogs.com Pets without Parents 614-267-7297 petswithoutparents.net/

Wildlife

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

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

11

Kitty Korner

CAT SCRATCH FEVER Not Just a Popular Song

By John C. Hansell, VMD Washington Animal Hospital, LLC

I

’ll bet most people don’t know that Cat Scratch Fever is more than a song. Cat Scratch Disease (CSD) is real, and can affect cats, dogs and even people. For many years the disease in humans was associated with contact with cats and kittens, but the actual cause was a mystery. It was not until 1992 that the flu-like fever, malaise and lymph node enlargement was associated with a causative bacterial organism, Rochalimaea henselae, later renamed Bartonella henselae.

It’s estimated that of the 60 million pet cats in the United States, at least 20% are infected with Bartonella, mostly young cats, cats that go outdoors, and cats exposed to fleas. During grooming the organism is transferred from a cat’s claws or teeth into the skin, and it can live in the bloodstream, lungs and gums. A bite or scratch from an infected cat transfers the organism to a new host. People diagnosed with Bartonella-associated illness usually have a history of close contact with cats, although not always. In those cases the patients most likely have been exposed to fleas or flea feces in the environment.

People with healthy immune systems may contract classical Cat Scratch Fever, which usually resolves on its own without antibiotic therapy, but in immunocompromised individuals a Bartonella infection can be particularly dangerous, even fatal. What begins as a flu-like disease within two weeks of exposure can become pneumonia, affect the liver, kidneys and even the brain, especially in infants, the elderly, people with auto-immune disorders, those undergoing chemotherapy, and others who have existing medical conditions that may have weakened their immune systems.

12 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | July/August 2016

What makes Bartonella so worrisome is that many cats can carry the Bartonella henselae bacteria without showing any signs of illness. And, because it is possible for a cat to be exposed to Bartonella, develop antibodies against it, and then eliminate the infection from its body, blood tests will still show a positive result. Some veterinarians prefer to use a blood culture, but this technically difficult diagnostic test can take weeks because the organism is a slow grower. Although a positive blood culture proves infection, the cat still may have no observable symptoms of the disease. There is also a test called PCR, but this requires a special laboratory and is costly. As with a blood culture, a positive PCR result proves infection but does not prove that the cat is ill from the Bartonella organisms.

When a cat is showing clinical signs of illness from Bartonella, it may have a fever, its gums may be red, inflamed and infected, or it may have uveitis, an inflammation of the inner layers of the eye. Uveitis has been commonly associated with Bartonella infection, but may also be the result of viral diseases such as feline leukemia virus (FelV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), protozoal diseases such as toxoplasmosis, and systemic fungal disease. Uveitis can lead to blindness in cats, people and less commonly in dogs.

To be safe, when you get a new cat, especially if the cat was feral or has fleas before coming to you, or there are people in your household who may be susceptible to the more serious outcomes of Bartonella exposure, you should request a Bartonella test on your cat’s

first visit to your veterinarian. Likewise, if your cat is showing clinical symptoms.

Your veterinarian may suspect Bartonella if: • If your cat’s symptoms can be associated with Bartonella, especially if they keep coming back after treatment • Other possible causes of the cat’s illness can be ruled out • The cat tests positive for Bartonella (either by blood tests, blood culture or PCR) • The cat responds positively to drugs known to be effective against Bartonella.

Bartonella infections are commonly treated with Azithromyacin. Flouroquinolones like Orbax and Zeniquin, and doxycycline and rifampin are also effective treatments.

Another reason the testing of apparently healthy cats for Bartonella may be useful is so that veterinary blood banks know the status of their donors, or breeders can know the status of their breeding stock.

People with compromised health, or health

Puppy Mill AWARENESS continued from page 6 issues in their families, may want to consider adopting only cats with negative test results as a precaution. Remember, though, that a cat may have a positive antibody test without being infected. It may only show that the cat was exposed to Bartonella, eliminated the infection and is partially immune. A positive test should not mark the cat as dangerous, and since Bartonella is so readily treatable, euthanasia should not be considered.

How can you keep your cat safe from Cat Scratch Disease? Because fleas are the most significant factor in the transmission of Bartonella, flea control is of the utmost importance. Keep your pet cats indoors, use veterinarian approved topical flea repellants yearround, and be cautious about adding stray or shelter cats to your household without testing. To protect yourself and your family members from Bartonella-associated illnesses, in addition to flea control, only adopt healthy, flea-free cats and kittens. Regularly trim your cat’s claws, and learn about cat body language so that you can recognize signs of agitation and avoid bites and scratches. If a scratch or bite does occur, wash the injury immediately and thoroughly, and contact a medical professional for advice. PC

CAT RESOURCES ColonyCats.org 614-570-0471 CozyCatCottage.com 412-336-8510 CatWelfare.org 614-268-6096

U.S. government regulates their breeders. That is true, but know that it is not nearly satisfactory in many dog lover’s eyes. The USDA abides by guidelines set forth in the Animal Welfare Act of 1966, with few updates since the Act was established many years ago. Unfortunately, USDA laws are minimal and there is not a sufficient amount of inspectors to adequately assess the large

have enacted local ordinances banning the sale of commercially bred dogs. Pittsburgh passed an ordinance in December, 2015. This does not include the areas surrounding Pittsburgh. One of the interests of Pittsburgh Puppy Mill Awareness is to work with organizations like the HSUS’s Puppy Mill Campaigns to focus on legislative efforts. So far, Robinson Township has said that, “The Township of Robinson does

Some people ask, “Why can’t we just shut down puppy mills?” number of licensed kennels (and no one inspects the thousands of unlicensed kennels). Some things you can view on the USDA’s website found on inspection reports include things like open bleeding wounds, feces in dog bowls, badly matted fur, toenails growing over cages, crusty eyes, skin irritations, and small cages.

Some people ask, “Why can’t we just shut down puppy mills?”

The answer is that because USDA certified kennels are not illegal, it’s not that easy. According to the Animal Legal Defense Fund, “Each state’s anti-cruelty laws differ as to what is chargeable as “neglect,” and with those differences come challenges for law enforcement.

For example, where states have clear minimum standards of care written into their laws, the opportunities for meaningful prosecution increase. Conversely, where the concept of neglect is only superficially addressed, the likelihood of successful prosecution diminishes.”

That is one reason why almost 150 municipalities across the country

not feel that it should enact any legislation that will limit consumer choice.” In instances like this and in cities everywhere, residents’ voices need to be heard.

Please note that Petland East Liberty in Pittsburgh changed to a humane model in 2010 stating, “Partnering with local Pittsburgh shelters to facilitate pet adoption has allowed us to make a real, ongoing difference in the community.” Newly opened Petland Norwin also sells shelter dogs.

If you want to join the fight against puppy mills, we encourage you to speak up to your local, state, and federal legislators.

Always keep in mind the easiest way to help the dogs on commercial kennels is to adopt from shelters, reputable rescue organizations, or even responsible breeders.

More on “Pet Store Double Speak” and other facts on puppy mills can be found at http://www.humanesociety.org/issues/puppy_mills/ facts/pet_store_doublespeak.html

www.petconnections.pet

13

Holistic Pet Care

Holistic – Body, Mind, and SPIRIT

By Doug Knueven, DVM, CVA, CVC, CVCH

I

t is the addressing of Spirit as an aspect of medicine that sets holistic practitioners apart from many other veterinarians. In fact, according to one advocate of Evidence Based Medicine (EBM), EBM adheres to the principle of methodological naturalism, which holds that scientific investigations must be limited to physical objects and processes that can be measured and manipulated and that obey laws of nature that can potentially be deduced. Methodological naturalism does not require taking a position on the existence or importance of supernatural forces; it merely excludes consideration of these from scientific investigation.1

You see, the scientific medicine of our day is based on the notion that all of reality is material and all the phenomena we experience can be reduced to atoms and molecules. According to this belief, holistic medicine, with its focus on body, mind, and spirit, is ridiculous because there is no spiritual aspect to reality. “Supernatural forces” are excluded from science, and science is all there is for EBMers. From the holistic perspective, Spirit is a vital aspect of reality and is not at all supernatural – it is the very essence of nature.

Insight into materialistic medicine can be gained by exploring the brain-mind problem; how does the brain produce the mind?

The materialist view is that the mind is a byproduct of complex, computer-like, brain activity (although they have yet to explain exactly how this happens). Their evidence for

14 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | July/August 2016

this belief is that if the brain is dead, there is no consciousness. Furthermore, damage to specific areas of the brain, leads to predictable loss of mental function. We also know from modern imaging, like functional MRI, that certain thoughts and activities correspond with activation of specific brain areas.

It is obvious that brain activity is correlated with mind activity. What is not clear from any of these observations is what causes what. Does the brain’s activity cause the mind to change or does the mind’s musings cause the associated brain activity?

An alternative view is that the non-material mind uses the brain to interface with the physical world. I think of this like a TV studio broadcasting a program. The studio is like the mind/soul and the TV set is like the brain. If you unplug the TV set (kill the brain), then there is no picture (evidence of consciousness). But that does not mean the studio (mind/soul) stops existing. You could even tinker with the TV’s circuitry and get predictable changes in the TV’s picture as is seen with manipulating the brain.

The materialistic view that the mind is a product of the brain leads to some objectionable consequences. For example, if our brains are calling all the shots, then we are not responsible for our actions. Think about it; if all we are is an intricate arrangement of cells, then the brain is formed strictly by the combination of genetics and experience.

Since we are not responsible for the DNA we were born with, nor for what happens to us, then we are not liable for the resultant actions of our brains and bodies. We have no free will. “My neurons made me do it!”

In fact, Frances Crick (co-discoverer of DNA’s molecular structure) summed this attitude up well when he stated that “…‘You,’ your joys and your sorrows, your memories and your ambitions, your sense of

personal identity and free will, are in fact no more than the behavior of a vast assembly of nerve cells and their associated molecules.”2 I personally find this deterministic view of human experience to be pathetic.

In fact, research has found that there are negative social ramifications from the belief in determinism. In the study,3 one group of participants was given anti-freewill material to read (including quotes from Frances Crick). A second group read neutral statements. Later, the two groups were given experimental tasks during which an intentional glitch allowed them to cheat.

The participants who had just read the deterministic propaganda were more likely than the control group to cheat. What does it say for those who adhere to EBM if simply reading anti-freewill statements can cause unethical behavior?

When confronted by the materialistic point of view, Albert Einstein said, “No, this trick won’t work…. How on earth are you ever going to explain in terms of chemistry and physics so important a biological phenomenon as first love?” Another Nobel Prize winning physicist, Niels Bohr, similarly stated, “We can admittedly find nothing in physics or chemistry, that has even a remote bearing on consciousness.”

Let’s take a look at research that may shed some light on the brain-mind problem. Since the 1950’s there have been over 150 studies on a phenomenon called Distant Mental Influences on Living Systems (DMILS).4 These studies looked into people using their intention to affect organisms from bacteria and yeast to small mammals and humans.

Some of the DMILS studies involved an agent who directed either a calming or arousing intention toward a target person.

According to 2 meta-analyses,5,6 in the vast majority of these investigations there was an appropriate response by the target’s autonomic nervous system as determined by changes in their skin conductance.

In these experiments the target and agent were isolated in separate rooms with no sensory contact. Intention and non-intention

periods were randomly interspersed automatically and the target responses were recorded automatically. Furthermore, since the targets’ responses were not under their conscious control, the studies eliminated the possibility of the target influencing the results due to expectation or guessing, further assuring unbiased results.

An interesting subset of these DMILS studies investigated the effect of being stared at.

For these, the agent simply stared at the target (who was in a different room) via a video monitor. Again, the staring periods were random and the target’s electrodermal reactions were automatically recorded.

According to the same 2 meta-analyses mentioned above, almost all of the trials proved there was a significant effect.

Doesn’t that make your hair stand on end?

The concept that conscious intention (such as prayer) can make physical changes at a

distance is scoffed at by the skeptic EBMers.

They call it “magical thinking.” The materialistic view has no explanation for how this could happen therefore they conclude that it does not (ignoring valid research).

Well, according to the most authoritative research that these folks worship (metaanalyses), magical thinking is as real as it gets with a level of certainty that puts drug validation studies to shame. The mind is more than a biological computer. The power of the mind’s intention is only supernatural if you don’t fully understand nature. Let’s face it, they may be able to program a computer to beat humans at chess, but that computer will never experience the thrill of victory.

1. M cKenzie BA, Is complementary and alternative medicine compatible with evidence-based medicine? J Am Vet Med Assoc 2012;241:421-426.

2. C rick F. 1994. The Astonishing Hypothesis: The Scientific Search for the Soul. New York: Charles Scribner’s Sons.

3. Vohs KD, Schooler JW. The Value of Believing in Free Will: Encouraging a Belief in Determinism Increases Cheating. Psychol Sci. 2008 Jan;19(1):4954.

4. K elly EF, Kelly EW, Crabtree A, Gauld A, Grosso M, Greyson B. (2007) Irreducible mind: toward a psychology for the 21st century. Maryland: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc. 5. S chlitz M, Braud W. Distant intentionality and healing: assessing the evidence.

Altern Ther Health Med. 1997;3(6):62-73.

6. S chmidt S, Schneider R, Utts J, Walach H. Distant intentionality and the feeling of being stared at: two meta-analyses.

Br J Psychol. 2004;95(Pt 2):235-247. PC

Dr. Doug

The Holistic Vet Sign up for Dr. Doug’s blog and get free weekly holistic pet health insights

Holistic and Conventional Care

Check it out today at http://drdougknueven.com and see what you’ve been missing!

Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 9-8; Fri. 9-5; Sat. 9-3; Sun. Closed 357 State Avenue | Beaver, PA 15009

724-774-8047

beaveranimalclinic.com www.petconnections.pet

15

Equine Affairs

Straight Lines Lines and and Circles, Circles, Oh Oh My! My! Straight

T

By Kristen Hermann

raining a horse is no easy feat, and one must consider why do we do it in the first place. Horses, tennis, golf, or swimming, whatever sport we choose, we all have our passions. Riding horses, however, is unique because I do not know of any other sport where you straddle an animal and try to work in harmony. I said that to someone once, and they said, “Well, what about bull riding?” In bull riding the objective is for the bull to buck you off. No harmony in that! First, we learn how to ride, and then we learn how to train the horse. And training is mostly done on straight lines and circles! (See the article Academic Riding in Pittsburgh Pet Connections.) Certainly, a pleasure rider who prefers hacking outside, training on straight lines and circles could not be their thing, riding in the woods would be!

However, when I am riding and training my horse, in the arena or hacking on straight lines in the country, I maintain an awareness of the horse’s body position.

This is training.

The straight lines and circles have such value when we train the horse. We need to train the horse to go symmetrical, to do equally on one side of its body as it does

on the other side of its body. Just like any athlete who needs to be ambidextrous.

On the horse, we have to be able to ride in both directions equally. Once I was giving a lesson, and my student said, “Can we do something other than straight lines and circles?” I jokingly replied, “Well, we could do backward flips!” So either the rider wants to buckle down and enjoy the value of straight lines and circles to train the horse, or they can “pleasure ride” and not worry about all this stuff.

The circle is where the rider establishes most of the basics needed for training a horse. Maintaining a rhythm on the circle is one of the first requirements to train the horse. On the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) training scale, the first three requirements: relaxation, rhythm, and contact. This training scale makes so much sense but for years, I trained horses and paid no attention to it. #1 is relaxation: you cannot train a horse without first having relaxation because, without it, you do not have the horse’s mind. If the horse is distracted or nervous, it is hard to get its attention. #2 is rhythm: you have to have a steady pace/rhythm to train a horse.

A horse going too fast and then slowing down is erratic in its rhythm. When I see a horse move like that, I think of a skipping record, totally annoying. So a mantra you hear in many of my lessons is, “Rhythm, rhythm, rhythm” and this is established on a circle!

The circle helps to naturally balance the horse; it keeps the horse focused and encourages rhythm. Cowboys use a round pen; this is a nice safe enclosed circle to keep the trainer and horse safe. English riders mostly just determine the size of the circle and stay on it, and/or a lot of time is spent lunging on a circle.

Circles are the beginning of a horse’s training, whether a round pen, lunging or riding corners. Circles encourage rhythm, relaxation and suppleness.

The rider “positions” the horse’s body onto the arc of the circle… horses do not just bend on their own.

16 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | July/August 2016

Once the rhythm is established on the circle (see Pittsburgh Pet Connections

article The Training Wheel of Training ) the rider then tests what she has established on the circle on the straight line. The straight line is like A straight horse has its head the testing in line with its shoulders, ground of the and its shoulders in line with work established its haunches. This is called horizontal alignment. The on the circle. rider is to maintain vertical When you think alignment to communicate to the horse is the horse with the aids. relaxed and rhythmic on the circle, then test it on the straight line. If the horse speeds up when you ride on the straight line, go back to the circle and keep repeating this until the horse can carry itself and keep rhythm on the straight line.

The horse has to find its balance, stay relaxed and rhythmic. This is basic training.

Circles and straight lines are just the beginning and only once you have the basics can you start to refine your riding. Dressage riders, will progress to smaller circles and then collection, for example. Hunter seat riders will test the relaxation, rhythm and contact over fences and if the horse rushes, they will return the horse to a circle. Cross country riders may just establish a forward hand gallop and be content with this!

No matter what discipline we pursue with our horse, when a problem occurs with the training and the horse needs an adjustment, where are we going to return? The basics! A circle and then a straight line with relaxation and rhythm. PC

W

hether you are traveling a short distance or going on a long trip with your horse, you have a lot to think about. The extra time and expense of getting the right tests and paperwork is necessary and required.

The health certificate may be for intrastate, interstate, or international travel. Much of the same information is required for all three of these types of health certificates.

If you trailer to a show with your horse, you will need to have your Coggins test available. This test looks for antibodies to Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) virus.

They may also ask for the Certificate of Veterinary Inspection, also known as a Health Certificate. The CVI attests that your horse has no obvious signs of disease on the day of inspection, and is signed by your veterinarian. This certificate is generally good for 30 days.

state veterinarian and the area veterinarian in charge to protect the health of both you and your horse by preventing, controlling, and eradicating animal disease. State and federal animal regulations help protect your horse from diseases such as vesicular stomatitis, screw-worms, piroplasmosis, and West Nile virus. Some diseases may be zoonotic, meaning that they can be passed from horses to humans.

Even local travel does not guarantee safety from foreign animal diseases – or sometimes not so foreign.

shut down. Complying with United States disease prevention requirements helps keep the entire equine industry healthy and active.

Not only does the CVI protect you and your horse, it also provides an excellent paper trail if anyone should question your horse’s disease status. Veterinary examinations, EIA results, body temperature, and vaccination records are in one place for easy retrieval.

Dr. Brian Burks is the owner of Fox Run Equine Center, a 24-hour medical-surgical center near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Center has been in western PA since 1984, and remains the premier equine hospital serving the tri-state area. Dr. Burks was an intern and then a resident in equine internal medicine. He is a Board Certified Equine Expert, by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners.

CERTIFICATE OF VETERINARY INSPECTION: The Coggins test is required for entry into all 50 states. Not only is a negative test required, but it must be performed at an accredited laboratory. Many states will accept these for 12 months, but there are a few that only accept them for 6 months from the date drawn; check with your veterinarian.

All states also require a CVI accompany the horse. Some require the horse’s body temperature be recorded on the CVI on the day of examination. Others require specific information regarding certain diseases, and some require a record of vaccination. Some states may also require an entry (or import) permit. This document can be obtained by the state of final destination, often by internet. This permit is good for the life of the health certificate.

Why do you need a health certificate? Local veterinarians work in conjunction with the

HEALTH CERTIFICATE

By Brian S. Burks, DVM, Dipl. ABVP, Board Certified in Equine Practice

Even local travel does not guarantee safety from foreign animal diseases – or sometimes not so foreign. Even if your horse does not come into direct contact with an animal with a reportable disease, equine transportation and showing may be

Brian S. Burks, D.V.M., Dipl. ABVP, Board Certified Equine Expert For additional information, please visit www.foxrunequine.com www.facebook.com/ foxrunequinecenter PC

www.petconnections.pet

17

Wellness For Guardians

Letting Go of Resentments

Judith Levy M.Ed., CEHP, ACC “Resentment is like drinking poison and then hoping it will kill your enemies.” Nelson Mandela What is resentment and how does it get activated?

When a person acts towards us in a way that hurts us, our mind often creates a story that attaches thoughts and meanings about the actor’s intention ending in more negativity and hurt feelings. We attach meaning to the action of the other person when in reality we have no idea why they did what they did; “Our partner continually fails to talk to us about what they are feeling, leaving us in the dark about what is happening with them. The story we may tell ourselves is, “if they loved me they would talk to me” or “they don’t talk to me because they don’t trust me.” Because you believe the meaning you are attaching to your partners behavior, without so much as checking it out, you begin to have a resentment that grows in size over time in the form of fear, anger, anxiety, abandonment betrayal or even panic.

When someone’s behavior hurts us, we tend to see it from the perspective of the victim.

To let go of resentment and grow from letting go, requires us to see the experience as a perfect opportunity for growth. To let go of resentment we will need to see the others perspective and experience. We must be open to letting go of finger pointing blame.

don’t share what’s going on with you, “I feel left out and I begin thinking you don’t love me. Is this why you don’t share with me”? If the person is not interested or not available, sit with all the possible reasons they may have behaved in a way that hurt you. In our scenario above, the quiet partner who does not share, may simply be too afraid to share. This person may be like a turtle that needs to be left alone in order to share. By doing this you will take things less personally.

Keeping things bottled up can eventually cause the resentment to get worse and beyond that can eventually make you sick….. screaming at the other will only give them resentment and cause you to feel shame and making matters worse.

Giving yourself the opportunity to have your story and your feelings:

Fact finding: Separating out what is true and what part is your interpretation/belief about what happened

It is always important to allow yourself to first accept your hurt feelings! Feelings are not right or wrong, they just are. So go ahead and hit a pillow or yell in the privacy of your car or another safe place. It is important to not “stuff” feelings down but rather “own them”. Keeping things bottled up can eventually cause the resentment to get worse and beyond that can eventually make you sick….. literally! What is important in this phase is what you DO with your feelings. Yelling and

Once you have gotten the bulk of the emotion out of your body and mind, it is a good idea then to find out what the “real story” is. This can take some courage on your part but in the long run mustering up the courage to talk will be far less painful. So yes, schedule a time to talk. Sit down with the person you have a resentment toward and using I statements, let them know how you were impacted by their behavior: “When you

18 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | July/August 2016

Once you have reframed the Story: Finding out the truth to the others behavior allows you to move into a more compassionate place. You can now understand where their behavior came from and you are now able to see that it had very little at all to do with you. This then allows you to look at your previous reaction. The fear, anger, abandonment etc perhaps ending in your yelling, crying, leaving etc. So now you see the lesson evolving….In the scenario above, the lesson may have been for you to realize that when your partner does not share, you go to fear and think it means he does not love you. The lesson is about learning that you are lovable whether or NOT your partner shares with you.

Nothing happens by mistake.

Do you believe this? I do as do many spiritual practices. So if you are able to get to a place where you question the lessons before you spend months or years in resentment, you will be a much happier person.

Judith Levy is a Certified Professional Relationship/ Life Coach as well as a Certified Energy Practitioner www.judithlevycoaching.com. PC

Can You Afford to Keep Eating Junk Food?

by Kristen Lane, Certified Health Coach “I can’t afford to eat healthy.” “It’s cheaper to buy fast food.” “Fruits and vegetables are too expensive.”

You’ve heard these complaints before; maybe you’ve even said them yourself. But let’s do some fact-finding and try to disprove these statements.

Do you truly believe you can’t afford to eat healthy? First, let’s define healthy. Fact: Healthy foods are nutritionally dense, are minimally processed, and free from chemical additives, artificial ingredients, hormones, and pesticides. A healthy diet is balanced, and includes fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, oils, and for those who choose, dairy. Fact: A family of four can eat three healthy meals a day, for a week, on only $65 by shopping at a moderately priced grocer. Fact: Eating healthy requires effort and planning.

Effort, as in cooking and preparation; planning as in researching recipes and creating shopping lists ahead of time. Yes, this can be a challenge. But making your and your family’s health a priority is worth it.

It’s not cheaper to buy fast food.

Fact: A Burger King meal can cost more than $30 for a family of four. A Whopper ($4.19), large fries ($2.39), and large soft drink (2.39) is $8.97 for one person. Fact: A head of broccoli ($1.59), 1-pound bag of brown rice ($1.29) and a whole chicken ($5.99) makes a delicious dinner for four people about the same cost. Fact: The nutritional value of the home-cooked meal towers above the fast food.

You say fruits and vegetables are too expensive… but compared to what? Fact: A bag of potato chips is about $3.86 a pound, but a bunch of bananas is about .50 a pound.

Fact: Twizzlers candy is about $4.25 a pound, but fresh asparagus is about $3 a pound. And if you really want to talk about expensive, think about the cost of medical care to treat obesity and other conditions caused by a poor diet. Fact: According to the Center for Disease Control, these costs reach about $94 billion annually. A healthier diet could prevent $71 billion in medical costs per year.

You wouldn’t feed your pets cheap, nutritionally-empty food. Now that you’re armed with facts, use that power to choose a sumptuous array of whole foods for yourself and those you love.

Transformational Life & Couples Coaching with Energy Modalities

Skype and phone sessions available 412-726-2659

A Blended Approach to Help You Become the Highest Version of Yourself

Judith Levy M.Ed., CEHP, ACC | www.judithlevycoaching.com | judith@judithlevycoaching.com

www.petconnections.pet

19

Wildlife

BIRDING FOR BEGINNERS — Keeping Everybody Safe

By Roger Tory Peterson, Volunteer, Ohio Wildlife Center

B

irding doesn’t equal nerd-ing anymore.

In fact, you could say it’s soaring in popularity. Birding ranks 15th (just below bicycling and beach bumming) on a list of the most popular outdoor activities, according to the most recent National Survey on Recreation and the Environment by the USDA’s Forest Service. And by some estimates, 85 million Americans enjoy observing, photographing, or feeding wild birds.

That’s the good news.

What’s the really good news? This affordable pastime doesn’t require long days spent on long roads making long lists of meticulous notes. So grab your kids, get your gear, get out there, and get involved!

Getting Your Gear Birding is an inexpensive hobby, requiring nothing more than a field guide to get started. The key is in choosing the right guide. The Young Birder’s Guide to Birds of North America (Peterson Field Guides) was specifically created for kids and, in fact, elementary school classes helped in selecting the content.

even when birding in the backyard. Magnification also brings little details like eye color and distinguishing markings into focus. As with the field guide, it’s important to buy the right product. Bins for children are easier to use, lighter in weight, and more indestructible than their adult counterparts.

Google “kid binoculars” and you’ll find dozens of models to choose from—some starting as low as $7.99.

Getting Out There First experiences make lasting impressions, and birdwatching is no exception.

Kids should practice using a field guide and binoculars in advance. As birds come and go in the blink of an eye, there’s just not enough time to stop, figure it out, and still get a look.

It’s also helpful to pick a specific bird, and go find it. Spotting even common birds offers instant gratification to young enthusiasts, as does crossing them off the checklist.

Covering 300 of the most common birds in the United States and Canada, this resource is packed with color photographs, drawings, range maps, and fun facts, as well as authoritative information about each bird, its vocalizations, and its habitat.

According to Audubon Ohio, more than 400 bird species have been documented in Ohio, so you’re bound to see several species in your own backyard or in a neighborhood park. Sticking close to home provides a number of advantages. There’s no need to pack snacks, bottled water, insect repellent, sunscreen, etc. And you’ll always find a bathroom close-by.

It also includes a kid-tested, easy-to-use checklist. You can purchase a new copy for around $14.00 or borrow one from your local library. If choosing the latter, be sure to photocopy the checklist. Or, if more convenient, download a checklist of Ohio birds from the Internet.

If you don’t get a lot of birds and you’d like to attract more, a couple of DIY bird feeders will do the trick. Websites like Pinterest have hundreds of kid-friendly ideas, many utilizing household items like plastic soda bottles, milk cartons, wooden spoons and teacups.

Binoculars are not a must-have for novices.

Though they do add a sense of adventure,

When you do decide to venture out, Ohio Ornithological Society is a terrific resource

20 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | July/August 2016

for birding locations. Their website, www. ohiobirds.org, allows you to do a search at the county level. They also include a Birder’s Almanac. Simply click on a given month and it tells you what birds you can expect to see as the seasons shift.

Getting Involved You don’t have to be a birding expert to help your kids learn, though it can be challenging to keep them focused on the natural world versus a computer game. Columbus Audubon, one of the largest Audubon chapters in the nation, does an excellent job of bridging this gap with their website, www. columbusaudubon.org. Click on Education, then click on Audubon Just For Kids, and you’ll discover a treasure trove of free games, wildlife videos, and live webcams.

You’ll also find information about Citizen Science. Citizen Science allows birders of all ages and levels of experience to participate in critical research efforts. These initiatives include the annual Christmas Bird Counts, the Great Backyard Bird Count, Project Feederwatch, eBird, and more.

“The truth of the matter is, the birds could very well live without us, but many—perhaps all—of us would find life incomplete, indeed almost intolerable without the birds.” PC

www.ohiowildlifecenter.org

In Remembrance

Mika

Mika (pronounced Meeka) literally dropped into our lives from the branches of a pine tree in a rails-totrails parking lot in West Newton, Pa. It was immediately clear that she was a cold, desperate, frightened kitten, abandoned there. Being a cold November day, the decision was made to take the little Calico kitty home. There were 3 dogs in the car so she was placed in the trunk for the mile long ride home. She and these dogs got along just fine and would later spend many hours sleeping in the sun together. When she was handed to my son, it was the beginning of a close bond that would last for 16 years.

Mika was definitely a “one man cat”. She loved the wooded property, the vegetable patch and even had her own catnip crop in the flower garden. Mika was an observer of animal visitors in the yard and considered them as guests, treating them accordingly so. She loved “working” the yard with her favorite person. The sound of his truck in the driveway was the signal to run to the door in anticipation. Even the dogs couldn’t keep up. She was a “talker” and always answered every question she was asked - even though it was in “cat speak”. The bathroom sink was a favorite cool place to sleep in the summer but the heating pad in her bed was the greatest on a cold winter night. The little Calico lady loved hockey and never missed a Pens game, happily perched on my son’s lap.

The loud cheering didn’t bother her. Cool, composed Calico kitty.

We lost her in June when time and age took their toll as they always do. Sadness followed as it always does. And time goes on as it always does. The one man kitty rests in a beautiful shady spot near the other beloved pets where the Lillies of the Valley grow. Arching red and white bleeding hearts surround the stone markers. An occasional passing of a squirrel or bunny can be seen sitting on the new soft dirt. It’s ok. She would have liked that. - Janet & Jeff

By Rosie Brunner

Hershey

Hershey, my beautiful daughter (bird) passed away on June 19th, at the age of 16.

I will never forget her or that joy she brought me.

I welcomed Hershey (full name Bonnie Colleen Joyce Alex Cahill Hershey, first three names after some old friends of mine, Alex Cahill after Walker’s, same as my male cockatiel, originally known as Buddy was renamed Walker after Chuck Norris’s beloved character from the ‘90s, and was later renamed Snake Plissken. She was renamed Hershey to match him, into my heart and my life at age 7, on a winter night in 2001. I bought her from a breeder and the girl who sold her to me was wearing earrings and a bracelet and said “She likes to play with jewelry,” I smiled and thought about letting her play with my bracelets.

I named her Bonnie because I thought she looked like Bonnie, who was a good, good friend of mine.

To me Hershey was much more than a bird. She was my daughter. I loved her since I was 7 years old and I always saw her as a younger, sweeter, more beautiful version of myself.

As I buried her, I looked at her one last time and told her “I’ll never forget you, Hershey. I couldn’t ask for a better daughter. You were there for me when nobody else was and you saw me at my worst and always cheered me up. Thank you for everything.

I really miss you and I can’t believe you’re gone. I wish I could hold you one last time.

Make that one million last times. I’m so sorry.

Goodbye Hershey. I love you,” I said as I buried her, tears streaming down my face. Then I heard what sounded like a young female voice saying “I’m with you in spirit” and I believe it was her even though she couldn’t speak English but she was breaking through my realm to tell me she is okay.

I will never forget my beautiful daughter Hershey and the happiness and comfort she brought me. I think when she died she took a big chunk of me with her, as have Rainbow the Betta, Gauge the Distinctive, Rare, Extraordinary Parakeet and many Priceless one-of-a-kind work of art others. The 16 years Crafted by degreed glass artists in the USA I had her by my side Engrave as desired were some of the most A small amount of your pet’s cremated beautiful years of my remains are included in each memorial life even in the darkest of times. www.crystalremembranceforpets.com 1.888.930.7363

PetConnections Pet Expo Symposium & Gala!

October 15 & 16th, 2016 Greater Columbus Convention Center

The PetConnections Pet Expo - Pet Symposium & Gala is a new breed of pet exposition, encompassing the theme of Education and Community in alignment with of our award-winning magazine, PetConnections.

We offer a dynamic combination of educational seminars with veterinarians & pet experts at our Pet Symposium. We’re offering the latest and greatest in pet and home products and services, along with attractions and entertainment, and also our PC Gala to benefit HAAWC pet-related programs and participating organizations. www.haawc.org Bring your furry friends to our PetConnections 5K Pet Walk, Costume Party & Adoption Event on Friday, Oct. 14th and receive half off admission to the Expo for Oct. 15 & 16! Pets are not permitted in the convention center. *see www.petconnections.pet for details.

Your Organization is Invited! Yes, your pet OR people organization are invited to participate FREE with ticket fundraiser – see website for details! Present your organization on our PC EXPO Stage and join in on our PC Pet Walk Friday & also our PC Gala Saturday night!

PetConnections magazine also always supports organizations with feature articles and sponsored ad campaigns! Ask us how your organization can be featured in PetConnections!

Exhibitors and Sponsors Wanted! Join us for a great opportunity to promote your business! You will become a media partner PetConnections with added value and long lasting exposure in our magazines!

info@pghpetconnections.com www.petconnections.pet/PetConnections-Pet-Care-Expo-Gala/