Pittsburgh petconnections sept oct 2017 digital edition

PetConnections

September/October 2017 Volume 6 Issue 1

PITTSBURGH

FRE E

wellness through the human-animal bond

Pittsburgh Pet Expo Nov. 3-5

Lani Lazzari & Cooper

of Simple Sugars pg. 26 Pittsburgh Premier Pet & Rehabilitation

ections PetConn

5th Yesaarry!

Anniver

Pittsburgh’s #1 Resource for Everything Pets

From The Publisher Welcome to our Pittsburgh PetConnections Bi-monthly Magazine’s 5th Year Anniversary edition!

September-October 2017, Volume 6 Issue 1

News & Events Wow, it is hard to believe we are starting our 5th year in publishing Pittsburgh PetConnections Magazine! We have our sponsors, readers and writers to thank for our success, and being part of our PetConnections family throughout the years!

CORRESPONDENCE info@pghpetconnections.com 724 -292-7387 All Rights Reserved | Copyright 2017

PITTSBURGH 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 Pittsburgh 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 Kara Jones Photography, Photography Kelli Koladish, Graphic Designer Carla Mader, Sales & Distribution Manager

A D V E RT I S I N G S A L E S Robin Reinfeld, Director of Sales, Pittsburgh 412-780-2254 | rrcd@aol.com Denise Iamurri Bartman, Marketing Director, Pittsburgh & Central OH Jaime Chesney, VP of Media Sales

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Susan Wagner, DVM, MS, ACVIM Doug Knueven, DVM, CVA, CVC, CVCH Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center Kristin Hermann April Minech

PetConnections has evolved into a full-service media company, providing services for advertising in print and digital platforms to help our sponsors grow their businesses. We have also been producing major pet expos in both Pittsburgh and Central Ohio. We will be announcing dates soon for our Second Annual PETCON Pet & Equine Expo 2018, in Pittsburgh.

Please see our event page for all upcoming fall pet events!

Featured are CARMAA’s Dogtoberfest, Animal Friend’s Muttster Mash, Humane Animal Rescue’s Jam on Walnut, and of course, the Pittsburgh Pet Expo is back on November 3-5 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center! Join us for this spectacular show, with new features and attractions this year! PetConnections is the major print media sponsor for the 5th consecutive year, publishing the Official Pittsburgh Pet Expo show program. For show details, go to www.pghpetexpo.com.

This Issue Cover story: Lani Lazzari, founder of Simple Sugars is shown with her family’s St. Bernard, “Cooper”. They are a family of pet lovers, and you can read more about them in our Wellness for Guardian section.

Also, our featured business is Premier Pet Care & Rehabilitation of Penn Hills. We also have the Blessing of the Pets ceremony story in our Human-Animal Bond section. PVSEC also writes about their pet loss support program. Dr. Doug writes about the importance of Vitamin D in Pets. Read Kristin Hermann’s article, Bananaering your Horse, in our equine section, as well as Manon Farm’s donation from PETCON 2017.

Thank you for picking up this copy of PetConnections.

Take care of yourself and your animals and be well!

Warmly,

Carla Mader Publisher Pittsburgh & Central Ohio PetConnections Magazine Cover: Simple Sugars Photography by: Kara Jones Photography

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 Disclaimer: The views expressed in our content does not necessarily reἀect that of PetConnections Magazine. PetConnections shall be indemniḀed against damages from content including ads and articles, false advertising libel, trademark infringement, etc.

2 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

Table of Contents September/October 2017

6 10 20

Holistic Pet Care

32

Equine Affairs

HumanAnimal Bond Pet Memorial Ceremony

Featured Business Premier Pet Care & Rehabilitation

Vitamin D for Pets

• Our low moisture system leaves

your carpet clean and dry- usually within one to two hours!

• Our cleaning products are non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for children and pets!

• Local franchise proudly serving the region since 2006

412-781-4110 www.oxypgh.com

• For Dogs, Cats, Birds, & Any Pet! • Short & Long Term Boarding • Daily Doggy Daycare Program • Full Grooming Salon & Pet Taxi • Kennel & Stress Free in our Home

10% OFF 7 day of any boarding* 412-856-8505 • PetConcierge.org 227 Loretta Dr., Monroeville, PA 15146

Bananaering a Horse

New Clients Only - One time use. Licensed by the PA Dept. of Agriculture FULLY INSURED

Our Home Is Your Pet’s Vacation Spot!

Dig It’s collars come with two different patent designs of buckles and include our innovative patented threefunction d-ring that makes it easy to secure your dog’s ID-tag.

Handcrafted in the USA.

8 Events 12 Rescue &

Shelter Fall Enrichment Fun With Your Pet

14 Pet Health & Wellness Changing culture of Veterinary Medicine 16 Directories

18 Advertiser

Locator Map

24 Kitty Korner Cat Resource

26 Wellness for

Guardians Simple Sugars Scrub

30 Equine Affairs

Manon Farm Donates Proceeds from Beauty & The Beast

dig-it-store.com www.petconnections.pet 3

Live Stingray Encounter is one of several new attractions at the 2017 Pittsburgh Pet Expo.

“Pittsburgh Pet Expo” Entertains November 3 - 5 at Convention Center Largest pet expo on East Coast features competitions, celebrities, demonstrations & adoptions

G

ather the family – along with the family dog, cat or even ferret on a leash – and head to the Pittsburgh Pet Expo presented by Healthy Pet Products November 3 - 5 for continuous entertainment, celebrities, samples and seminars at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Downtown Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh Pet Expo will feature competitions, celebrity meet-and-greets, demonstrations, shows, adoptions, giveaways, photos with Santa and much more. Two full acres of pet-related fun will set the scene for three days of non-stop entertainment and 200+ exhibitor booths.

Pet lovers can celebrate their affection for animals of all types – from dogs and cats to birds and fish to snakes and turtles to rabbits and potbellied pigs — at the largest pet expo on the East Coast.

The three-day extravaganza will features a costume contest, daring dock diving dogs, “Rescue Me Rodeo Round Up” grooming competition, “Ask the Vet” sessions with experts from Seven Fields Veterinary Hospital, educational programs by “That Guy with the Birds” Kenny Sprouse, demonstrations by Steel City Reptile Expo and plenty more entertainment.

New in 2017 Cat Show Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Food & Litter presents The International Cat Association’s World of Cats when 50+ breeds will compete in the largest cat show to take place in Pittsburgh in decades!

Stingray Encounter The world’s only self-contained stingray exhibit will offer an opportunity to safely view and touch these wonderful creatures during this unique hands-on educational experience.

4 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

Cutest Pet Photo Booth Meet the winner of Pittsburgh Magazine’s 2017 Cutest Pet Contest. Also, pose with your pet to see what you would look like on the cover of Pittsburgh Magazine’s “cutest pet” issue.

Adoption Opportunities Looking to add a new member to the family? Whether you’re considering adopting a playful kitten or a mature canine companion, opportunities will abound.

Representatives from local animal shelters and breed rescue groups will serve as “matchmakers” to help you find the perfect four-legged friend.

Expo Favorites Pets on a leash are welcome to attend throughout the weekend – and enjoy many opportunities to take part in the festivities, including: Costume Contest – Dress up your pet and compete for prizes at the ever-popular Pet Costume Contest. Val Porter of 102.5 DVE will serve as emcee of the Sunday afternoon competition for dogs of all sizes and competitors of all species. Complete contest rules and registration form are available at PghPetExpo.com.

PET EXPO AT A GLANCE November 3-5 Friday, 5-9 p.m.

Saturday, 10 a.m.- 8 p.m.

Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

David L. Lawrence Convention Center Downtown Pittsburgh Admission $10 adults $9 seniors (55 & up) $9 active military FREE children 10 years and younger HALF PRICE ADMISSION for everyone Friday evening compliments of Rachel Ray Nutrish.

DISCOUNT OFFER: Spend $10 at either Healthy Pet Products location October 1 - November 5 and receive 2 FREE tickets to the show.

Pet Photos with Santa – He’s making a list…and checking it twice…and spending three days at the Pittsburgh Pet Expo!

Create a lasting memory by placing your pet on Santa’s lap for a special holiday photo.

Free Treats & Giveaways – Your beloved pet can sniff out the best deal at the Pet Expo – free samples and giveaways at many vendor booths throughout the Convention Center.

The Pittsburgh Pet Expo is presented by Healthy Pet Products and is sponsored by VCA Animal Hospitals, Rachel Ray Nutrish, Fromm Family Pet Food, Dollar Bank, UPMC Health Plan, Hands On Grooming Gloves, the Garden of Faithful Friends at Jefferson Memorial Cemetery, Humane Animal Rescue, Pittsburgh PittsburghPetExpo PetConnections, iHeartRADIO and Yelp.

PittPetExpo For more information visit PghPetExpo.com.

www.petconnections.pet 5

Human-Animal Bond

Even the Tiniest of Pets are Remembered at Pet Memorial Sunday Ceremony

By Bernadette Kazmarski

”What is the smallest pet you’ve cremated?” is a question Deb Chebatoris, owner of Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation, is often asked when talking with families about arrangements for their pet’s cremation. Until recently, goldfish and sugar gliders were the 1A and 1B of the smallest pets....until Maxwell.

Maxwell was a fire-bellied newt and lived a happy little life with his human, going everywhere with her. Travel was made easy due to his size, for Maxwell was about the size of a quarter. He was bright eyed and inquisitive.

However, after 12 years, he finally succumbed to an illness and his family wanted to have him cremated so they could keep him with them still. The family called and asked if it was possible to cremate a newt. “I could see no reason why he could not be cremated,” Deb said, so he was brought to Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation wrapped in a paper towel and carefully placed in a little box.

“I am always amazed at how perfectly our pets are fashioned and being in this profession, I see that even the very smallest of pets, is perfect.”

Deb continued. “To say a family was pleased at the outcome of the cremation always sounds a bit odd, but after you appreciate the detail that it takes to perform a cremation this small, you can see the loving care and concern that is a part of every cremation performed at Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation.”

member,” said Deb. The couple searched for a place they felt comfortable to cremate their beloved animal companion. When they returned from their deployments they flew from the east coast to the Midwest where they retrieved their dog, rented a car and drove nine hours to bring their dog’s body to Deb for an attended cremation though they had never been to the Pittsburgh area, and then drove 7 hours to get home. “They chose my service after an exhaustive internet search of pet cremation services from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mississippi River,” Deb said.

While this couple had never heard of Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation, they chose CCPC because of the level of care they could see was given to both the pets and the people, from accommodating their time schedule with an attended cremation to the beautiful handmade cloth bag and silk rose they were able to take home, a part of every cremation done by Deb at her facility in Bridgeville. Deb’s been providing this compassionate type of service as well as support to her families all over Western Pennsylvania for 12 years, and that’s how she knows the importance of a remembrance ceremony for pets we’ve lost.

Which is one of the reasons Deb hosts a Pet Memorial Sunday ceremony each September.

As part of the ceremony three speakers discuss our relationships with our pets before and after their death: “Our Last Moments Together”, “Our Grief Response” and “The Joy of Pets: Adopting Again After Loss”.

Families add their part to the ceremony Pet owners in attendance were also invited to offer their own “Words of Tribute” which are read by the speakers as part of the ceremony. Participants’ tributes share with all attending what was so very special about their departed pet.

While holding a lit candle, attendees were given a Release Recitation focusing on the transition from being in this life to being a treasured memory.

“Caring for people who love their pets”

Pet Memorial Sunday Remembrance Ceremony

The dove release

“Last year a military couple got the sad news while on deployment that their dog had passed away while being cared for by a family

The second Sunday of September was set aside as a time to remember our pets by the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories. Deb has hosted a ceremony on Pet Memorial Sunday since 2005 for families who have lost a pet.

One of the most touching parts of the ceremony is the dove release. To symbolize letting go, a single white dove is offered to each person to touch. Each touch is a final goodbye, a transfer of the family member’s grief and a release of the soul of their beloved pet as the dove rises to the sky.

“Our society does not normally have a ritual to help families transition through the loss of a pet. This event is an effort to meet that need,” said Deb. Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation hosted its annual Pet Memorial Day remembrance ceremony on Sunday, September 10, 2017 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Melrose Cemetery in Bridgeville.

Anyone who is dealing with grief over the loss of a pet was welcome to attend.

6 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

A permanent remembrance After the ceremony pet owners participated in submitting their pet’s photo and tribute which, along with photos and remarks from this year’s event, were made into a video/slideshow, the “Tribute Scroll”, added to the CCPC website for families who wished to remember the day and share it with family and friends. The 2017 Tribute Scroll as well as Tribute Scrolls from past years can be viewed at www.ccpc.ws/ tribute-scroll/.

To find out more about Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation please visit www.ccpc.ws or call Deb Chebatoris at 412-220-7800.

YOUR PET NOT FEELING THEIR BEST?

Let Pittsburgh Premier Pet Care and Rehabilitation fix that!

Comprehensive Health Care Services & Integrative Veterinary Medical, Surgical and Dentistry Care Physiotherapy Modalities

A combination of physiotherapy techniques are used in order to achieve greatest outcomes.

We are proud to offer the most complete and latest physiotherapy modalities.

• Wellness & Sick Visits • Acupuncture • Land and Water Treadmill Training • VOM Certified Chiropractor • Low Level Laser • Manual Therapy Techniques • Therapeutic Ultrasound • Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) • Tens Unit • Cold Therapy • Stem Cell/PrP Therapy

Hours

Mon - 9am to 6pm Tues - 10am to 7pm Wed - 9am to 6pm Thurs - 9am to 6pm Fri - Closed Sat - 9am to 1pm Sun - Closed

PITTSBURGH PREMIER

Pet Care & Rehabilitation 11900 Frankstown Road | Pittsburgh, PA 15235-3410 | 412-795-1215 | premierpetcareandrehab.com

www.petconnections.pet 7

Events CARMAA

Dogtoberfest

Humane Animal Rescue

Carmaa-petadoption.com

October 21st

October 7th

Susan G. Komen Pittsburgh

9th Annual Paws for the Cure

October 8th

Jam On Walnut

HumaneAnimalRescue.org

Bird Fair

Pittsburgh

pittsburgh.info-komen.org

October 22nd

Animal Friends

Pittsburgh Pet Expo

Muttster Mash

October 21st

Thinkingoutsidethecage.org

Humane Animal Rescue

November 3-5th Pghpetexpo.com

Pet Gift Baskets - Pet Supplies - Pet Sitting wwwbasketsofnature.com Phone: 724.831.9437 Email: contact@basketsofnature.com

“Visit us at Dogtoberfest” 8 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

Largest Pet Expo on the East Coast

PRESENTED BY

November 3-5

David L. Lawrence Convention Center

Pets are Welcome! must be on a leash

New in 2017

Cat Show SANCTIONED

GROOMING GLOVES

PghPetExpo.com

Featured Organization

Premier Pet Care and Rehabilitation

An Integrative Pet Care Center

By April Minech

PITTSBURGH PREMIER

Pet Care & Rehabilitation

Is your pet not feeling their best? Let Pittsburgh Premier Pet Care and Rehabilitation fix that!

Of course, we want what’s best for our pets, and learning about all the options available to them is a great way to start. Most of us are familiar with basic issues that our pets need help dealing with, such as those itchy, licky spots (official name: lick granuloma), arthritis, lumps and bumps, and common surgeries. While you probably know about antibiotics and surgery, have you heard of laser therapy? The good doctors at Premier Pet offer integrative care with many holistic and nonsurgical treatments that have been proven to work, in addition to their excellent standard of care.

Dr. JJ Patlola is the founder of Premier. A dedicated and brilliant veterinarian, He completed his D.V.M in 2004. He did his Masters in Dept. of Animal Science, University of Vermont. During his masters he did research work on the effects of vaccination on the immune status of neonates. His recommendations are very useful in the field. Dr JJ sharpened his skills using state of the art, cutting edge techniques. He is a well-known and highly regarded veterinarian in the area. He also developed expertise in performing stem cell therapies and offered those services to numerous clients with great success. Through the years he developed a strong interest in canine rehabilitation and alternative medicine.

Dr. Judy Kuechenmeister graduated from the University of Georgia in 1990. In her career she has practiced on large animals, zoo animals, exotics, and small animals. Dr. Judy also has been in practice in Pgh for past 19 yrs. She enjoys surgery and developing relationships with clients and pets, so our pets have the best quality of life possible.

Take acupuncture. Around for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is becoming more popular as people and their pets reap benefits and share the results by word of mouth. Once considered almost mystical, courses are now offered for vets wanting to offer more options for their patients. And it’s an extensive process to add to a veterinary resume. “I traveled to Florida for training, practical , and four-hour written exam,” says Dr. Judy Kuechenmeister. “You have to put in extra effort beyond what’s required for western medicine.” Acupuncture can be used to treat a variety of conditions, particularly those that

involve inflammation and pain such as arthritis, degenerative joint disease, intervertebral disc disease, tendonitis, sprains and muscle spasms, and trauma recovery.

Another service offered is laser therapy.

Veterinary cold laser therapy provides a noninvasive, pain-free, surgery-free option that can be performed in conjunction with existing treatments. Laser treatment for dogs uses deeppenetrating light to promote a chain of chemical reactions known as photobiostimulation. This process helps relieve pain through the release of endorphins, and it stimulates injured cells to heal at an accelerated pace. Basically, it stimulates the body’s own healing powers. Premier Pet offers a free session with every surgery they do, and the doctors have noticed an decrease in healing time for their surgeries, including regular spay and neuters. They offer a consultation with your first visit and treatment, so you can learn about the process and see the results for yourself. And if you think the treatment is working for your pet, you can check out their package deals. The lasers can help everything from hot spots and constant licking at wounds, to arthritis and healing from surgeries. Laser can be a great solution for chronic conditions as well, breaking the cycle of some behavior related conditions.

Premier Pet can help your dog though rehabilitation with their extensive array of services. Starting with manual therapy. They have balance and strengthening exercises, joint mobilizations, massage, stretches, facilitation of range of motion. All task oriented training is performed by our experienced staff members supervised by the vet. They even have an underwater treadmill, and therapeutic ultrasound. The ultrasound treatment is great for relaxing muscle spasms and the related pain that comes with them. The sound waves are deep penetrating and provide a soothing massage.

For joints, the treatment stretches out collagen fibers that make up scar tissue that leads to limited use of the joint.

As for the western based care we are familiar with, Premier Pets offers the highest standard as well. Along with the varied background of their veterinary staff, they start with fear-free handling, a newer idea to decrease the stress

10 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

most pets have during a vet visit. We’ve all seen our dogs’ faces when they realize they’re at the vet. That panicked, ears back oh-no look. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Fear-free vet technicians use with peanut butter stuffed toys, treats and lots of praise and pats to help your dog have a positive experience. Dogs are given treats as a veterinarian peeks into their eyes and ears, feels their belly, and listens to their hearts.

If a dog becomes concerned and backs away, the veterinary staff stops the exam and gives him a break. After allowing the dog a few minutes to calm down, the vet tech will entice the dog to participate again. Basically, fear-free veterinary exams move at your dog’s speed. By not forcing your dog through a traumatic vet visit with restraint, the dog has a chance to relax and the visit will go better for everyone involved.

The staff plays a big role in the level of care Premier can provide. Dr. Michael G. Savko, a wellknown and respected Pittsburgh native leads the chiropractic services. A certified chiropractic sports physician and reiki provider, Dr. Savko puts both people and their pets at ease. And supporting staff seem to have that special energy that naturally calms pets coming in for services.

“Animals are not afraid of me”, says certified vet tech of 25 years Jayne Kohnen. “No matter their personality or temperament”. And that enthusiasm is shared by Kalena Megginson, licensed vet tech and recent graduate in training.

She has three ferrets and helps with the exotic care as well as rehabilitation. “I love seeing the improvement in our patients” she notes as her favorite part of working there.

To round out the complete care, Premier has certified groomer and rehabilitator Lauren A. Steele on board. She became interested in pet rehabilitation when her own dog started having medical issues as he got older. Now she helps dogs feel good on the inside and look good on the outside!

If you are interested in learning more about the techniques described here, you can visit the Premier Pet Care web site at www.premierpetcareandrehab.com, or stop in and ask the friendly staff in person.

Humane

Animal

Rescue

Rescue & Shelter

Fall Enrichment Fun… with Your Pet!

By Suzanne Denk, Animal Enrichment Specialist

Crisp fall temperatures are just around the corner and you may be looking for some indoor fun with your fourlegged friends. Here are some enrichment activities that are just what you need to keep your pets stimulated (both physically and mentally!) once the cool weather arrives.

Bubbles for Cats

Rabbit Enrichment Toys

Egg Carton Puzzles

Everyone loves bubbles, and your cat is no exception! Bubbles can provide something new for your feline friend to look at and the fun, unpredictable movement stimulates her mind. The adventurous kitties will love the excitement of popping them! You can even find several different brands of bubbles that land without popping, can be easily wiped up and are safe for your pet to eat.

Wheat Grass Containers Grow wheat grass in a small plastic container – apple sauce or dressing cups work very well. Your rabbit will enjoy grazing on a healthy snack in a fun new way!

Dogs enjoy playing games to find hidden treats. A quick and easy way to give your dog a fun activity is to hide treats in a cardboard egg carton or cereal box and let him get to work!

This activity will allow your dog to use his mind and his nose. And, tearing the cardboard helps to channel your dog’s energy and gives him an appropriate alternative to chewing on the sofa!

Cardboard Ball Cut a paper towel tube into rings. Insert one ring into another to make an X. Continue to add rings to create a round ball. Add hay to the center and allow your rabbit to have fun tossing and tearing.

If you’re looking for more fun games to play with your pet check out ThinkingOutsideTheCage. org/Enrichment!

12 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

Brought to you in par t by

Sat., Oct. 21 South Park | Edgebrook Field Save the date for a Howl-o-ween celebration you won't soon forget!

Lace up your sneakers, leash up your pup and break out your best costume because there will be something for everyone.

Register at ... ... if you dare!

Pet Health & Wellness PVSEC Changing Culture of Veterinary Medicine Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center recognizes the significance of the human-animal bond.

www.pvs-ec.com

By Lori C. Harbert, LCSW; Director of Social Work Services Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center

“Our clients will tell you their pets are a member of the family.”

Over the last decade our pets have taken on new meaning. No longer are animals just animals they have evolved into fully functioning family members. As the bond with our animals intensifies so does the need for emotional support.

PVSEC is a large specialty care practice with 24-hour emergency services.

Unfortunately, the patients seen at PVSEC are often very ill. This leads to owners dealing with very difficult and highly emotional situations. For every patient that is treated there is a human with their own unique set of circumstances and bond with their animal. PVSEC recognized that their veterinarians and medical staff needed assistance meeting the emotional needs of their clients.

Veterinary social workers provide emotional support to both clients and staff, short term crisis support, help facilitate client decision making, and provide support to clients during or after a decision to euthanize their beloved family member. Veterinary social work is a term coined in 2002 by Elizabeth Strand, PhD. from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. Understanding the bond between an animal and their owner is different for each situation.

Veterinary social workers assist clients in understanding their emotional connection to their pet and help to facilitate healing when they lose a beloved animal.

Veterinary social workers are skilled at developing rapport with their clients. Our connection is quickly developed through the mutual understanding and sharing of the intense emotions related to grief and loss.

Veterinary Staff Support

Client Support

In January 2017, Rebecca Barkley lost her beloved dog Senji. Senji was 17 years old and the center of Rebecca’s world. Senji had many medical issues and was a longstanding patient at PVSEC. Rebecca traveled many emotional miles with Senji. “It was not long until I realized that I must prepare myself for THAT day… in Senji’s life and mine.” Although, my life is full with children and grandchildren whom are my life, still the thought of losing Senji was devastating me beyond which I could understand. I have had every dog, cat, and critter imaginable that you could have in a lifetime but there is that ONE special animal. After the loss of Senji I was shocked by my reaction.

I could not cope! I could not stop crying, I felt out of control. Senji was the center of my world for many years. At this point is when I turned to the social work department at PVSEC. The social worker helped me understand my grief and my connection to Senji.”

14 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

As a Veterinary Social Worker at PVSEC my primary responsibility was working with the clientele but as I have built relationships with the staff it has evolved into equal amounts of time spent with clients and staff.

It is amazing the dedication, compassion, and love that is devoted to each animal.

Many of the veterinary staff can spend days, months, even years engaged in the treatment of a particular pet. In that time frame, they can build significant and meaningful relationships with pet owners.

When they are unable to fix or change an outcome for a pet owner the grief and loss

they feel can have a cumulative effect on their emotional well-being.

A typical day for a veterinarian and their medical staff can be quite stressful consisting of challenging cases, frustrated clients, and the need to deliver very difficult and often unexpected health

information leading to very lengthy quality of life conversations. Veterinary social workers will often engage medical staff allowing them time to discuss what is on their mind or bothering them about a particular situation. Having this type of guided interaction with a social worker can allow the medical professional to

effectively process the stressful events of their day. Recovery from grief can be made easier through knowledge of the process and sharing feelings with others who understand your loss.

Services offered at PVSEC • Social work support services are a free service.

• Supportive one on one counseling.

• Reading materials and educational packets.

• Client and patient advocacy.

• Facilitation of a pet loss support group for hospital clientele and the community. The Grief and Loss group runs the second Saturday of every month from 10:30am-12:00pm. Registration required.

• Debriefing sessions for staff.

• Referral for outside mental health services for clients and staff.

• Crisis support hotline available to both clientele and the community. Please contact 412-348-6515.

• PVSEC has also established a social work email contact for hospital clientele and the community; please feel free to email socialwork@ pvs-ec.com.

www.petconnections.pet 15

Directories Animal Educational Exhibits

Dog Training

Holistic Practitioners for Guardians

North: The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium pittsburghzoo.org The National Aviary nationalaviary.org

North: AKIN Family Dog Training (Lilian Akin) 412-732-8091 | akinfdt.net Greater Pittsburgh Area: Happy Pets Training/Christine Flint 412-373-9583 | www.happypetstraining.com Success Just Clicks successjustclicks.com North Shore: Western PA Humane Society 412-321-4265 | wpahumane.org South: Paula’s Professional Dog Services 412-818-2482

East End: Judith Levy Wellness Coaching/Energy Modalities 412-726-2659 | www.judithlevywellness.com

Animal Communication Greater Pittsburgh Area: Renee Takacs, M.A. intuitguide.com

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

Animal-Related Art, Photography & Retail April Minech Custom Portraits | Pet Inspired Art www.ladybugdelightz.etsy.com Pet Portraits 412-407-2590 www.PittsburghPainting.com/portraits North: Nicole Begley Photography nicolebegleyphotography.com Vibrant Images 724-774-1731 | www.vibrantimages.photography South: Kara Jones Photography kjones.smugmug.com Paws ‘n Claws Eyewear PawsnClawsEyewear.com

Animal Rescue Organizations North: Animal Friends 412-847-7000 | thinkingoutsidethecage.org Beaver County Humane Society 724-775-5801 | www.beavercountyhumanesociety.org Pennsylvania Great Dane Rescue 724-869-9185 Hope Haven Farm Sanctuary 412-366-1187 | hopehavenfarm.org Western Pa Humane Society 412-321-4625 | wpahumane.org South: Animal Care & Welfare 412-244-1372 | animalcareandwelfare.org Droopy’s Basset Rescue 888-9 GET DROOL | www.droopysbassetrescue.com Washington Area Humane Society 724-222-7387 | washingtonpashelter.org Animals Against the Odds Rescue/Rehab www.aato.rescueme.org East: Animal Rescue League 412-345-7300 | animalrescue.org ARL Wildlife Center 412-345-7300 | animalrescue.org SW PA Pugs with Special Needs 724-763-2790 | swpapug.org West: CARMAA 412-780-4983 | carmaa-petadoption.com Greater Pittsburgh Area: SPAAR www.seniorpetandanimalrescue.org

Bird & Supplies Natural Inspirations Parrot Cages www.naturalinspirationsparrotcages.com

16 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

Dog Training Clubs South: Dogworks Training Center at The Canine Club Phone: (412) 220-8100 | www.thecanineclub.com Golden Triangle Obedience Training Club 412-653-6880 | gtotc.com Keystone Canine Training 412-833-2211 | keystonecanine.com Xcel Canine Training Center 412-833-2504 | xcelcaninetraining.com

Equine Boarding, Lessons & Training Facilities North: Rockin’ Horse Stables 724-601-4706 | rockinhorsestables.com South: Coventry Equestrian Center 724-206-9902 Manon’s Farm 724-705-7912 | 724-621-0260 SydMor Equestrian Center 724-969-0510 | www.sydmorstables.com

Equine Holistic Care Greater Pittsburgh Area: Dr. Michael Savko, DC, CCSP, CVCP 724-261-7915 | drchirovet.com

Equine Tack Stores North: Shady Acres Saddlery 412-963-9454 | www.shadyacressaddlery.biz South: Lowry’s Western Store 724-228-1225 | lowryswesternshop.com

Equine Veterinarians Dr. Brian Burks, DVM - Fox Run Equine Center 724-727-3481 | foxrunequine.com

Holistic Pet Practitioners Pet Chiropractor North: Dr. Doug Knueven, DVM Beaver Animal Clinic 724-774-8047 | beaveranimalclinic.com Greater Pittsburgh: Dr. Michael Savko, DC, CCSP, CVCP 724-261-7915 | drchirovet.com South: Manning Chiropractic & Wellness Center 412-341-2505 | drastridmanning.com

Holistic Veterinarians Dr. Doug Knueven, DVM Beaver Animal Clinic 724-774-8047 | beaveranimalclinic.com Dr. Qiang Li VCA Castle Shannon 412-885-2500

Pet Burial, Memorial & Cremation Services South: Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation 412-220-7800 | ccpc.ws Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home 412-655-4500 | jeffersonmemorial.biz East End: Precious Pets Memorial Center & Crematorium 412-351-PETS (7387) | preciouspetspgh.com Greater Pittsburgh: Carved Stone by Serena 724-941-2664 | www.carvedstonebyserena.com Thousand Hills Pet Crematory 724-355-8296 | www.thousandhillspetcrematory.com

Pet Fencing Greater Pittsburgh Area: Dog Guard Pittsburgh Dog Fence 412-287-5820 | Pghdogfence.com

Pet Grooming North: All About Dogs 724-925-1577 | allaboutdogsgrooming.info Larry’s Laundromutt 412-534-4052 | larryslaundromutt.com Happy Tailz Pet Spa 412-759-7620 Happytailzpetspa.com Healthy Pet Grooming 724-759-7567 Larry’s Laundromutt 412-534-4052 | Larryslaundromutt.com South: Candelore’s Barking Beauties 412-872-5550 Creative Canine Cuts 724-223-9020 Grand Slam Grooming 412-221-5081 | grandslamgrooming.com Petsburgh Dog & Cat Grooming 412-885-4027 Pets at Home Dog Grooming 412-655-7297 (PAWS) The Pet Salon 412-279-5331 | petsalonusa.com Woody’s Dog Wash & Pet Boutique 412-714-4644 | woodysdogbath.com East: Animal Elegance 412-361-1177 | www.animal-elegance.com Candelore’s Barking Beauties Pet Grooming 412-872-5550 | candeloresbarkingbeauties.com

Cat Around Town Cat Grooming 412-461-3700 | cataroundtown.com West: Paws Here Awhile Pet Resort 724-573-4665 | pawshereawhile.com Greater Pittsburgh Area: Zoom N Groom (Sonya Patterson) 724-225-4827

Pet Friendly Businesses & Organizations

Pet-Friendly Living East: The Gateway at Summerset 855-401-2700 | www.gatewayatsummerset.com Glen Highland Farm www.glenhighlandgetaway.com South: American Destiny Real Estate Services 412-983-2220 | www.adr-usa.com Amore 877-716-6840 | amoreapartments.com

Pet Grooming Schools North: Pa Academy of Pet Grooming 412-759-7620

Pet Ministries South: Christ United Methodist Church 412-277-1096 | christumc.net Westminster Presbyterian Church 412-835-6630 | westminster-church.org

Pet Resorts - Boarding, Daycare, Grooming & Training North: Camp Bow Wow - Ross Township campbowwowpgh.com Dog stop - North 724-935-DOGS (3647) | www.thedogstop.net The Dog Stop - Sewickley 412-766-DOGS(3647) | www.thedogstop.net Lucky Paws Pet Resort 724-728-1484 | www.luckypawsresort.com

Pet Retail/Supply North: Healthy Pet Products 412-366-0700 | healthypetproducts.net South: Healthy Pet Products 412-831-3700 | healthypetproducts.net Oddball Pets & Aquariums 412-884-2333 | oddballpets.com Woody’s Dog Wash & Pet Boutique 412-714-4644 | woodysdogbath.com East: Petagogy petagogy.com | 412-362-7387 Petland East Side Village 412-363-PETS | www.petlandvillageofeastside.com Greater Pittsburgh Area: Canine Health Supplements 614-937-8309 www.lifevantage.com/peggymills#canine Fan Reps 412-439-3063 | www.fanreps.com Pawdentify and Links-It Collar Tags www.pawdentify.com Paws in the Sand 814.434.4857 | www.pawsinthesandpettreats.com Close 2 Ur Heart Jewelry

Baskets of Nature 724-831-9437 | www.basketsofnature.com Dig It Collars dig-it-store.com

Western PA No Boarders Pet and Animal Care Home & Farm Sitting 724-219-7801 Noboarders-petcare.com South: Your Critter Sitters (Raylene Hoover) 724-448-7330 | yourcrittersitters.com East: Pittsburgh Pet Concierge 412-856-8505 | petconcierge.org

Veterinary Hospice & Mobile Services Greater Pittsburgh Area: 412-801-1071 | gentlejourneyvet.com

Veterinary Pharmacies Greater Pittsburgh Area: Murray Avenue Apothecary 412-421-4996 | MAApgh.com

Veterinary Hospitals North: Beaver Animal Clinic 724-774-8047 | beaveranimalclinic.com Cheyenne Veterinary Wellness & Surgical Center 412-884-3162 | www.cheyennevet1.com VCA Northview Animal Hospital 412-364-5353 | vcanorthview.com South: All About Pets Veterinary Hospital 724-745-5503 | aapvet.com All About Pets Veterinary Hospital – Washington location 724-503-4887 | www.aapvet.com VCA Castle Shannon 412-885-2500 East: The Big Easy Animal Hospital 412-908-9301 | tbeah.com Monroeville Pet Hospital 412-372-1100 | www.monroevillepethospital.com Pittsburgh Premier Pet Care & Rehab 412-795-1215 | premierpetcareandrehab.com West: VCA MetVet West Animal Hospital 412-788-6400 vcahospitals.com/met-vet-west

Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Services Greater Pittsburgh Area: Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center, Inc. 412-366-3400 | pvs-ec.com VCA Northview Animal Hospital Specialty Referral Center 412-364-5353 | vcanorthview.com East: AVETS - Allegheny Veterinary Emergency Trauma & Specialty 412-373-4200 | avets.com

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

Bactronix 412-375-7886 | www.bactronix.com Good Nature Organic Lawn Care 888-LAWNSAFER | whygoodnature.com Simple Sugars Scrub Simplesugarsscrub.com Greater Pittsburgh Area: Fragasso Financial Advisors 412-227-3200 | www.fragassoadvisors.com Fundvelopes 412-595-8641 | fundvelopes.com Matt Arch Foundation www.connectarian.com One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning 724-225-1644 | www.onehourair.com OxyMagic 412-781-4110 | www.oxypgh.com Susan G. Komen Pittsburgh 412-342-0500 | www.komenpittsburgh.org East Pittsburgh East Nissan 412-824-9020 | www.pittsburgheastnissan.com Unique Home Solutions www.uniquehomesolutions.com South: Southpointe Chamber www.southpointe.net

South: Camp Bow Wow - Castle Shannon campbowwowpgh.com Grandma’s Dog Daycare 412-586-7094 | grandmasdogdaycare.com Fuzzy Paws Pet Villa 724-746-3899 | fuzzy-paws.com The Dog Stop - Banksville Rd. 412-343-1171 | www.thedogstop.net Pinch’s Place 412-445-8550 | pinchsplace.com Pampered Paw Resort 724-413-3135 | pamperedpawresort.com East: Camp Bow Wow - Highland Park campbowwowpgh.com Pittsburgh Pet Concierge 412-856-8505 | petconcierge.org The Dog Stop - Monroeville 412-373-3355 | www.thedogstop.net The Dog Stop - East End 412-361-0911 | www.thedogstop.net East: The Dog Stop - East: Strip District 412-315-7050 | www.thedogstop.net Country Lane Pet Hotel 412-824-7991 | www.countrylanepethotel.com West: Camp Bow Wow - Greentree campbowwowpgh.com Paws Here Awhile Pet Resort 724-573-4665 | pawshereawhile.com

Veterinary Technology Schools Greater Pittsburgh Area: Pittsburgh Career Institute 412-281-2600 | pci.edu

Pet Sitters North Furry Family Pet Sitting 412-999-9524 | www.furryfamilypetsitting.com

List your business today! info@pghpetconnections.com www.petconnections.pet 17

Advertiser Locator

D

O

Page 22 - A All About Pets Veterinary Hospitals Page 36 - B Animal Elegance Page 9 - M Animal Friends Page 11 - C Animal Rescue League Page 21 - D Beaver Animal Clinic Page 19 - Best Breed Pet Food Inside Front Cover S VCA Castle Shannon Page 34 - F Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation Page 18 - Q Cheyenne Veterinary Wellness & Surgical Center Page 19 - Pet Portraits P Page 7 - W Country Lane Pet Hotel Page 29- Costa Real Estate Page 32 - G Coventry Stables Page 36 - Dog Guard Pittsburgh Dog Fence Page 37 - Dog Stop Page 19 - H Fuzzy Paws Pet Villa Page 31 - Gentle Journey Veterinary Hospice Page 6 - Keystone Training Club Page 1 - I Healthy Pet Products Page 35 - J Jefferson Memorial Page 31 - P Larry’s Laundromutt Page 27 - Manning Chiropractor Page 27 - Mia Bella’s Page 23 - K Murray Avenue Apothecary F Washington Page 3 - Oxymagic Carpet Cleaning A Page 36 - Paws Here Awhile G Page 19 - Pampered Paw Resort Page 7 - Petagogy Page 18 - Pets at Home Page 19 - Petsburgh Dog & Cat Grooming A Page 35 - Pinch’s Place H Page 31 - Pittsburgh Career Institute Page 19 - Y Pittsburgh East Nissan Back Cover - N Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center Page 28 - Sam’s Painting Page 8 - Baskets of Nature Page 3 - Pittsburgh Pet Concierge Page 31 - O Rockin Horse Stables Page 33 - SydMor Equestrian Center Page 25 - U Washington Area Humane Society Page 21 - Dr. Michael Savko Page 9 - Pgh Pet Expo Page 19 - V Woody’s Dog Wash & Boutique Page 7 - Pittsburgh Premier Pet Care & Rehab Page 3 - Dig It

18 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

I M N U R

B

C K

Q

Y

S

W I V J

Daycare, Overnight Boarding, and Do-It-Yourself Dog Wash

(724) 413-3135

254 North Main Street Washington, PA 15301

pamperedpawresort@outlook.com pamperedpawresort.com

www.petconnections.pet 19

Holistic Pet Care

Vitamin D for Pets

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

VITAMIN D is a critical nutrient. It acts as a hormone in the body and regulates calcium metabolism which is important in bone growth and maintenance. Vitamin D excess leads to too much calcium in the blood. This can cause calcification of body tissues and the formation of bladder stones.

Overt Vitamin D deficiency causes Rickets (poor bone development) in the young and osteomalacia (softening of the bones) in adults. Subtly low Vitamin D can cause many other problems mentioned below.

Vitamin D is nicknamed “The Sunshine Vitamin” because the skin of our bodies can manufacture it with the help of sunlight.

It is important to note however that dogs and cats do not have this ability. Pets must consume all the Vitamin D they need (and at the same time, not excessive amounts).

Many people do not get enough Vitamin D, probably due to our indoor lifestyles. A vast number of studies over the past three decades have linked Vitamin D deficiency to the development of many human diseases including autoimmune, infections, cardiovascular disorders, and, most especially, cancer. Even conventional human physicians have now realized the importance of this nutrient and are measuring blood levels and recommending supplementation as needed.

One problem with Vitamin D in dogs and cats is that the research in this area is just beginning. It was only a couple of years ago that a study established the desirable range of Vitamin D in the blood of pets to be 100120 ng/ml. Some experts think we should be shooting a little higher (120-150 ng/ml). At the same time, it is certain that blood levels above 300 lead to toxicity.

Vitamin D appears to act as an antiinflammatory agent. A recent study showed that low levels of Vitamin D cause an increase in inflammation in the body. Another study found that a low Vitamin D level is a risk factor for heart failure in dogs. Vitamin D protects the heart and helps it function better. Still another study found that the lower the level of vitamin D, the more severe the heart condition.

A very important study found a correlation between low Vitamin D and cancer in dogs.

It further found that Vitamin D has a potent positive effect on the immune system.

Researchers also found that Labradors with mast cell tumors had significantly lower Vitamin D levels than unaffected dogs.

Furthermore, vitamin D metabolites were found to have anti-proliferative effects on the growth of canine mastocytoma cells.

Multiple studies have shown that Vitamin D has anticancer effects on other canine cancer cell lines as well.

Two other studies found that dogs with low Vitamin D levels are prone to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Similarly, cats with either IBD or intestinal lymphoma were found to have low Vitamin D levels.

Concentrations of Vitamin D were found to be lower in dogs with acute or chronic renal failure compared to healthy control dogs.

Another study found that, in dogs with allergies, the response to cortisone treatment was significantly better in animals with higher serum Vitamin D levels.

Yet, the importance of Vitamin D for pets is irrefutable. When you look at all the serious medical conditions (heart disease, IBD, kidney disease, cancer, etc.) that this nutrient affects, we need to be sure our animal companions are safe.

The only way to know that your pet is getting the right amount of Vitamin D is to check her blood levels. If you want to be sure your pet has a reduced risk of inflammation, cancer, and other serious diseases, get this important test today.

Then the appropriate amount of Vitamin D can be supplemented if needed.

A study published in 2015 found that the level of Vitamin D in the blood of hospitalized cats predicted their likelihood to survive. The lower the blood level of Vitamin D, the higher the risk of death from any disease. A previous study found that cats with tooth resorption (a painful disease of cats that causes their teeth to dissolve at the gum line) have significantly higher serum concentrations of Vitamin D than do cats without this condition. It is important to be sure the balance is just right by having a blood test.

Because dogs and cats are unable to make Vitamin D in their skin, they depend on getting the right amount from their food.

Unfortunately, many pet diets may be unbalanced when it comes to Vitamin D. One recent study looked at the blood levels of Vitamin D in 320 dogs. Most of the dogs (292) were being fed processed dog food from 40 different manufacturers, 18 were on homemade diets, and 10 were on a combination of the two. The blood levels of vitamin D ranged from 9.5-249.2 ng/ml. (The 9.5 level was from a dog on a homemade diet).

Another study looked at cat food and found that 41% of canned cat foods have more than 30 times the Vitamin D requirement of cats (which could explain the dental problems mentioned earlier). A veterinary nutritionist I spoke to told me that in her research she found that the Vitamin D levels in feline diets range from 98 – 1,305 IU/1,000 Kcal.

The AAFCO guidelines allow for levels of 125 – 2,500 IU/1,000 Kcal. Those are both quite wide ranges which makes me concerned about the reliability of pet foods regarding Vitamin D levels.

20 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

Indy is and 8-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog who became very ill this past summer. In July, he was diagnosed with a very aggressive mast cell cancer that was attacking his spleen, liver, and lymph nodes.

He had surgery to remove his cancerous spleen and upon recovery, developed aspiration pneumonia.

But, Indy and his caregivers are fighters. His conventional veterinarians got him started on chemotherapy. When Indy saw me for an integrative approach, I added herbal medicine, a natural diet, probiotics, and acupuncture to his treatment regimen.

As part of his holistic workup I checked his blood level of Vitamin D. Indy’s level was 64.4 which is much lower than the ideal range of 100-150. Whether this was a factor in the development of his cancer, we will never know, but he is now on supplementation and we are hoping for the best in his recovery.

Integrative Holistic Medicine Integrative: combining the best of conventional and alternative medicine Holistic: providing more options for therapy • Acupuncture • Herbal Medicine • Spinal Manipulation • Supplements

• Natural Nutrition • Vaccine Counseling • Massage Therapy • Healing Touch

Dr. Doug has been practicing integrative veterinary medicine since 1993. He is certified in acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and chiropractic. With over 30 years of veterinary experience, Dr. Doug has treated thousands of challenging cases.

For complete care for your animal companion, see Dr. Doug. Call Beaver Animal Clinic today to set up a holistic exam for your pet.

Dr. Doug | The Holistic Vet

357 State Avenue | Beaver, PA 15009 | 724.774.8047

beaveranimalclinic.com

“Dr. Savko IS the Bar and Platinum-Star-Standard!”

“Let me begin by saying Dr. Mike is beyond AMAZING! I cannot believe we who have pets have the good fortune of having access to such a talented, loving, caring, empathetic, and knowledgeable individual.

I was devastated with the news that Lucy had IBD. I was reluctant to have a scope done, but needed to get answers. After the diagnosis, she was put on steroids and other meds. I did not want my cat living on meds.

I wanted better. After discussing things with my vet and trusted pet sitter, I enlisted the help of Dr. Savko.

AMAZING! I was speechless after the first visit. I noticed a visible difference

IMMEDIATELY! Dr. Savko understood the problem and had an outline for a course of action that would HEAL Lucy.

I do not want to manage a condition.

I want to HEAL the condition. Dr. Mike has done that. He is incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and above all, he is honest. He told me in the very first phone conversation, “if I cannot help Lucy, I will tell you.”

The progress is INCREDIBLE. Lucy is now off her daily doses of Miralax and she is on a much lower dose of steroid. He has done this in just a few visits. I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Savko.

I don’t care how big or small the issue with your pet, CALL DR. SAVKO!

www.animalhealingnow.com

®

Veterinary approved and supervised services provided at the following locations: Holiday Park Animal Hospital, Plum Greenfield Veterinary Hospital, Pittsburgh Pittsburgh Premier Pet Care and Rehab, Penn Hills Donovan Veterinary Hospital, Ligonier Fox Run Equine Center, Apollo

20 Years Experience Certified VOM Chiropractor Veterinary Affiliation Certified ThetaHealer® “miracle worker” “a very supporting and caring doctor” “wish I would have known about you sooner” “best time/money we ever spent” “you have given us hope”

724.261.7915 www.petconnections.pet 21

www.aapvet.com 724-745-5503 155 East Pike Street Canonsburg, PA 15317

22 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

829 Jefferson Aven ue Washington, PA 15301 724-503-4887 Now Scheduling Appointments

Murray Avenue Apothecary

PET CORNER PittsburghsPetPharmacy.com

Susan Merenstein, RPh/Owner 4227 Murray Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15217 | 412.421.4996

We take the “bite” out of animal dosing!

Animal Medication

Solutions

Animal Digest Formula May Improve

•Gut Health/IBD •Antibiotic Diarrhea •Digestion •Nutrient Absorption •Immunity •Bad Breath •Gas

Custom & Topical Ralph’s Immunity & Compounds Inflammation Formula Contains Acetyl-Glutathione CBD Hemp Oil (THC-Free) • Inflammation • Arthritis Flavored • Asthma Medications • Aging Private Label Supplements Ralph CBD Hemp Oil for Pets Susan’s ••Great for Puppy Anxiety, Arthritis, & Inflammation MAA’s Mascot ••100% Pharmaceutical Grade • Over 17 Years Old • Safe for Pets - 100% THC-FREE Lovesinhis ••Legal allfamily 50 States and organic treats!

• Available in 50mg and 250mg sizes www.petconnections.pet 23

Kitty Korner Cat Resource Guide Low-cost spay/neuter and animal services in and around Allegheny County This is an ever-changing list of resources for pet owners in Pittsburgh and beyond including low-cost spay and neuter programs for pets as well as TNR for community cats, after-hours emergency care, help with veterinary bills, pet-friendly rentals in Pittsburgh and across the US and links to shelters for adoption and other services. This information is provided for reference only and subject to change without notice. Please contact the organization or agency before using their services.

TNR and Low-cost Spay and Neuter Organizations and Programs Homeless Cat Management Team http://www.homelesscat.org City of Pittsburgh Free Spay and Neuter for City Residents City of Pittsburgh offers five free spays/neuters to all city residents www.pittsburghpa.gov/animalcontrol/spay_neuter.htm

Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Programs at Shelters in Allegheny and surrounding counties Shelter Programs PENNSYLVANIA Animal Friends www.thingkingoutsidethecage.org Humane Animal Rescue Please call each branch while the two shelters continue their merger.

East Liberty Shelter (formerly Animal Rescue League) http://www.animalrescue.org/ North Shore Shelter (formerly Western Pennsylvania Humane Society) www.wpahumane.org Clarion Paws Serves Clarion, Forest and Jefferson County Low Cost Spay / Neuter Clinic: spayneuterclinic@clarionpaws.org Trap-Neuter-Return: tnr@clarionpaws.org http://www.clarionpaws.org/ PET & OUTDOOR OR FERAL CATS Beaver County Humane Society http://www.beavercountyhumanesociety.org Butler County Humane Society http://www.butlercountyhs.org/FelineSpayNeuter.asp Washington Area Humane Society http://washingtonpashelter.org/services/ EASTERN OHIO Angels for Animals http://www.angelsforanimals.org/snWhy.asp

Low-cost Spay/Neuter Organizations in Allegheny and surrounding counties These are organizations which are not day-to-day clinics but organize, host, sponsor or otherwise provide access to spay and neuter services.

Catnip Acres (Greene County) http://www.catnip-acres.org/clinics.html

Fluffy Jean Fund (Washington County) http://fluffyjeanfund.weebly.com/ Fund for Feral Cats of Pittsburgh Reimburses partial funds to help spay/neuter feral cats (funds not always available) 412-521-5352 Lawrence County Animal Relief Fund (LCARF) http://www.lcarf.com/ Operation Spay/Neuter Butler, PA (for Butler County residents only) http://operationspayneuter.com/ Pet Search http://www.petsearchpa.org/ SNIPP: Spay and Neuter Indiana PA Pets Westmoreland/Indiana Counties, Alle-Kiski Valley (Leechburg) http://www.snippindianapa.org/

Low-cost Spay/Neuter and Veterinary Clinics These are independent clinics that offer services on site during regular business hours.

Fix ‘Ur Pet http://fixurpet.org/ Frankie’s Friends http://www.FrankiesFriendsCatRescue.org/ Penn Hills Spay/Neuter Clinic http://www.spayaz.com/Pittsburgh.html Wexford Spay/Neuter Clinic http://www.spayaz.com/wexford-pa/

Find Local Low-cost Spay, Neuter and Veterinary Care on the Internet

Low-cost Neuter and Spay (search by zip) http://neuterspay.org/ Love That Cat (online search) http://www.lovethatcat.com/spayneuter.html Spay USA http://www.spayusa.org/search.php Spay and Neuter Early, a Humane Alliance Campaign http://www.whentospay.org/get-your-pet-fixed Get Your Fix.org http://getyourfix.org/ ASPCA searchable map of low-cost clinics in US & Canada https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/ low-cost-spayneuter-programs

Emergency and After-hours Care

Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center (PVSEC) http://www.pvs-ec.com/ VCA Castle Shannon Animal Hospital http://www.vcahospitals.com/castle-shannon

24 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

VCA Northview Animal Hospital Specialty Referral Center http://www.vcahospitals.com/northview A-VETS http://www.avets.us/

Pet-friendly Rentals

In the Pittsburgh area, visit this list on the FosterCat website: http://www.fostercat.org/friendly.html Nationwide (United States only) http://www.rent.com/pet-friendly-apartments

Shelters and Shelter Services

Adoption, surrender, low-cost clinics, pet food pantries, referrals, etc.

Humane Animal Rescue, North Shore (Western PA Humane Society) www.wpahumane.org Humane Animal Rescue, East Liberty (Animal Rescue League) www.animalrescue.org Animal Friends (AFI) www.thinkingoutsidethecage.org Animal Advocates animaladvocates.net Washington Area Humane Society www.washingtonpashelter.org Butler County Humane Society www.butlercountyhs.org Beaver County Humane Society www.beavercountyhumanesociety.org

Animal Cruelty Laws by State (United States) Animal Legal & Historical Center www.animallaw.info/articles/armpstatecruelty.htm

Cat Rescue Resouce Guide

Wellness For Guardians

By: April Minech

Some business minds shine from the start.

Take Lani Lazzari, creator/owner of Simple Sugars. You may know her name and brand from her success on Shark Tank, but her mom, Gina Lazzari, told us it started way back when Lani was 11. “She wanted an iPod, and I said sure. As soon as you earn the money for one.”

Unintimidated, Lani began crocheting hair scrunchies and selling them at school for $2.

“She had her iPod in 3 months.”

The idea to create Simple Sugars came one Christmas, when Gina suggested they make presents to give out to family and friends. Since Lani was sensitive to many commercial skin products, she did some research and created a scrub sensitive and fun enough to use on her own skin. The gifts were such a hit, she decided to create the business and at 13, launched Simple Sugars with the help of her mom.

Lani’s own experience with eczema led her to seek out natural ingredients. Through her research, she found that simple refined sugar was the gentlest exfoliant to start with. Sugar has a small, round crystal and dissolves easily in water. (Interesting fact: sugar is also used in vet hospitals and clinics as a safe and gentle debriding agent for pets.) Another natural ingredient

is emu oil (all products are available without the oil for vegan conscientious customers.) The oil is deep penetrating but won’t clog pores or leave you feeling greasy. It naturally contains antiinflammatory properties and has a low allergy potential, as well as containing vitamins and skin softening nutrients.

The scrubs also appeal to pregnant and new moms because they are a onestep product: cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing in 5 minutes with no chemicals.

This scrub has literally changed my life and I don’t have to use medicated creams anymore! It’s still the only thing I’ve found to give me relief from itchy skin. I really appreciate it! - Faith In 2011, in an effort to create some big buzz about the company, Lani planned a crosscountry trip to promote Simple Sugars through appearances and social media with a goal of catching the attention of Ellen and securing a spot on her show. While Ellen didn’t notice their efforts, shark tank producers did. Gina remembers the exact moment they were sitting at lunch and Lani got the email: she was invited to audition as one of 40,000 other contestants for the shark tank program!

Producers of the show loved her feel good story, and during her pitch she caught the interest of Mount Lebanon shark Mark Cuban.

Everything is produced in-house, on their pink production floor. (Really, it’s hot pink!) The offices all have a pink and positive theme, and the employees are happy and colorful characters as well. Every Christmas, Simple Sugars lets each employee pick a charity for the company to donate to, and of course, some animal welfare groups always make the list.

While they don’t have a line specifically for pets, many regular customers have shared results of using the sugars on their own animals. The company has received more than a few testimonials from people touting the benefits for their pets, like this Boston Terrier owner who tried it as a bath

26 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

scrub for her dog with skin issues. “It worked on Sydney the same way it worked on my skin. The gentle scrub felt so good when I was washing her, she closed her eyes and almost purred. Any my hands were so soft after her bath,” said Mary S, a regular user. “And we both smelled like green apples!” Another email came from a horse owner, who used it on her horse’s hooves for a foot treatment.

While Simple Sugar doesn’t make any claims for treatment or pet use, the results are undeniable. Volunteered emails and letters come in monthly with success stories from people and their pets. The gentle scrubbing comes from small sized sugar granules, and is all natural. Lani’s philosophy is simple, “If it’s not got enough to eat, why put it on your skin?”

The Simple Sugars family are pet lovers, and fur kid members include Cooper, a St. Bernard, and Honey, a Pittie mix. Cooper offered to help out at our photo shoot, and enjoyed rollicking with his owner Alex, Lani’s brother, and generally wrecking the office that day with hair, slobber and big puppy kisses. He had a bag of treats the size of big man’s lunch, and seemed to think he was the star of the story.

He even put on a Simple Sugars T-shirt for our group shot!

To learn more about Simple Sugars and all the wonderful products available, visit www. simplesugarsscrub.com

www.petconnections.pet 27

PET FRIENDLY LIVING

28 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

DENISE IAMURRI BARTMAN / 412-983-2220 www.Octanebuilders.com

Octane Builders are an energy efficient modular home builder customizing to your needs.

We are able to find you the perfect vacant lot and build your luxury dream home.

- Residential - Commercial - New Construction - Land Development

www.petconnections.pet 29

Equine Affairs

Manon Farm Donates Proceeds from their Beauty and the Beast Performance at PETCON 2017 Kimberly and Kelly Manon produced the incredible fairy tale on horseback at PETCON Pet & Equine Expo last May. They collected $400 in donations at the event, and recently awarded the proceeds to our local Washington, PA puppy rescue, the Puppy Connection.

The Puppy Connection Rescue’s mission is to increase public awareness of the puppy overpopulation issue and provide solutions to end the killing of adoptable animals. To save and improve the lives of dogs that have been abused, abandoned or rejected. To rehabilitate, vaccinate, spay and neuter them, and find them a loving forever home. The donation form the Manon Farm will directly go to veterinary care. Jeanie Sexauer, of the Puppy Connection is shown below holding “Kenzie”, along with the cast.

About the Event The Manon’s and the rest of the staff rehearsed for months and trained the horses to the routine, riding to the music of Disney’s Beauty & the Beast. They performed the fairy tale each day of the PETCON event at the Washington County Fairgrounds May 13-14th, 2017. The show was a huge hit and people donated generously during each of the performances.

Kelly Manon played “Belle” and rode the Percheron cross Dressage horse, “Sir Dozer”. Jake Bush played “the Beast” and rode “Dwayne”, the Quarter horse.

Performance ideas by Manon farms for next year, include Frozen and Aladdin! They hope to increase awareness for animal welfare and raise more money in 2018.

Shown above from standing from left to right: Kim Manon, Chewy, Logan Smith, Marie Maxwell, Kelly Manon, Jacob Bush, John Finch, Victoria Ealy, and Nicki Anglan. Sitting: Jack Manon, Ella Smith, Jeanie Sexauer and “Kenzie”, Kendall and Kaycin Anglan.

Working with Animals is My Dream Career...

Thanks PCI. In just 18 months, you could earn an Associates Degree in Veterinary Technology with hands-on training from PCI. Take the first step toward your new career and call today: 412.281.2600

or visit pci.edu.

Accredited Member, ACICS, CVTEA. Financial Aid is available to those who qualify.

PCI cannot guarantee employment or salary.

421 Seventh Ave. w Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Ph: 412.281.2600 w 800.333.6607 www.pci.edu w Facebook.com/PCIschool

www.petconnections.pet 31

Equine Affairs

“Bananaering”A Horse

By Kristen Hermann

Training horses require them to be capable of bending in both directions.

A horse has a horizontal spine back to front, and it has to be gymnastically trained going both left or right. I created a slideshow on understanding the biomechanics of training a horse, and I used a picture of a banana to show how the horse should bend.

Using a banana as a visual was effective because everyone knows how a banana is shaped. While giving the slideshow, however, many in the audience did not understand bending the horse, so the banana visual helped. Then recently in a lesson, I said to the student, “Is your horse banana-ed left?”

And we laughed because she knew what I was talking about and she understood when I said it that way. Using the word “bent” or “positioned” for training just doesn’t seem to create the same visual as is your horse “bananaed”!

Horses are very similar to humans in the fact that they are either left or right-sided. A more knowledgeable rider will know if their horse either likes to bend right or left and train it accordingly. The process of training the horse gets it to work or use itself equally in both directions. One of the ironies of training horses is that we want our horses to bend both right and left, but how many of us riders are ambidextrous and use ourselves equally on both sides? Yet, we expect our horses to be flexible both ways. In addition to asking my horse to bend both left and right, I also expect the horse to stretch both forward and back. I call this a four-way stretch: laterally (side to side on both sides) and longitudinal (back to front and front to back).

A rider needs to determine if the horse bent right, or it the horse positioned left. The average horse likes to bend right, just Cantering right, the horse is positioned or like the average person is bananaed to the direction of travel. right-handed. Only about ten percent of the horses are bent left as are only about ten percent of riders left-handed. So, since the majority of horses are bent right, and the majority of riders are right handed, many find it difficult to bend the horse left. But if the rider can see which direction the horse likes to bend, by having the awareness that the horse prefers a certain way, then it is easier to fix.

Why do we care if our horses are bent in either direction? Well, one good reason is to keep them sound and in alignment. It is like 32 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

Yoga for Horses. If the horse moves efficiently and effectively in both directions carrying equal weight on all four limbs, then not one area of the horse’s body carries the burden of overuse.

Training the horse to use its body with balance both longitudinally and laterally is good training.

Shoulders falling in and out and side reins keeping the shoulders aligned so the horse travels straight.

When the rider understands that their horse is more than likely a bent right horse, then it becomes easier for them to know they have to banana their horse to the left. What happens with a horse that is allowed to be bent right when tracking left on the circle is that the shoulder falls in and the horse’s spine is not following the arc of the circle. Yes, it becomes a pretzeled banana, just kidding. In the visual to the right, you can see a horse popping its shoulder and how the side reins are used to keep that shoulder in alignment with the rest of the horse. So, we position or banana shape our horse so that it will move more effectively and efficiently in the direction it is traveling. Only with riding, we use the rider’s reins and legs and not side reins. Can you imagine driving a car on a circle with the front tires pointing in the opposite direction it is traveling? You would be buying tires regularly. It is the same with our horses, their spines need to be positioned, bent or banana-ed in the direction of travel.

So, the next time you mount your horse note which way it likes to look most often. If the horse nonchalantly keeps looking to the right very likely, that is the side it prefers to bend. Then put your horse on the circle to the opposite direction and see if it bends that direction. If not then you have to ask the horse to be bananaed in that direction. And how do you do that? By using your three natural aids to communicate to and signal the horse to be positioned or bananaed in that direction. The inside rein is called the “softening rein,” and it bends the horse in the neck from the shoulders to the poll. As the horse’s neck bends, its body too bends around the rider’s inside “active leg,” and the outside “supporting rein” keeps the horse from “falling in.”

A horse positioned or banana-ed right.

Yes, the secret to riding is the ability to use the aids in coordination and in timing with the horse’s three natural gaits. In my opinion, knowing when to do what and why is important. Why the horse should be looking where it is going by positioning, bending or bananaering them makes good training sense. I like looking where I am going! There is no doubt figuring out the nuances of riding is like a bowl of fruit, when you learn how to mix it up just right it is real tasty!

Remembrance

Legend of Rainbow Bridge From the book, Legend of Rainbow Bridge by William N. Britton Published and copyrighted in 1994. Reprinted with permission.

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

34 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

Call today to find out about your PetConnections savings! www.petconnections.pet 35

36 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

The Most Comprehensive Multispecialty Referral and Emergency Veterinary Center in Western Pennsylvania

TWO LOCATIONS! PVSEC North

807 Camp Horne Road Pittsburgh, PA 15237

Open August 28th, 2017!

PVSEC South 1535 Washington Road Washington, PA 15301

Emergency and Critical Care 24 hours a day/365 days a year

• • • • • • • • • • •

Anesthesiology Cardiology Critical Care Dentistry Dermatology Emergency Internal Medicine MRI & CT Imaging Neurology Oncology Ophthalmology

• • • • •

Radiation Therapy Radiology Rehabilitation Surgery Stereotactic Radiosurgery

412.366.3400 • www.pvs-ec.com