Pittsburgh PetConnections Spring 2022

Spring 2022

FREE!

Vol. 9 Issue 3

PetConnections PITTSBURGH

WELLNESS THROUGH THE HUMAN-ANIMAL BOND

Roxy’s Final Journey Problem Behaviors?

Diabetes in Cats and Dogs Is My Horse on the Bit? PITTSBURGH’S # 1 resource for everything pets! petconnections.pet

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FROM THE PUBLISHER Welcome to our Spring Edition Volume 9 Issue 3 NEWS & EVENTS:

PetConnections is pleased to welcome new advertisers, Judy Smith Team Berkshire Hathaway Realtors, Rebound Pet Rehabilitation, UBS, and Keeta Mobile Pet Spa!

Welcome to Pittsburgh PetConnections Magazi

2019, Volume Issue Please see our event section for spring events such asWinter Animal Friends’ Bow Wow7Bingo on1April 9th. Also, the 2022 Pittsburgh Marathon with HARP! THIS ISSUE:

30/19.

News

Welcome Winter We are dedicating this issue to toour Foxy Roxy2019 theissue!

Italian Greyhound! Roxy has touched many lives of people and animals through her work with owner, Jason Dunkle for animal welfare causes and she welcome Animal Buzzy Photography, and O2 Derm Pet Topical holds a very specialWe place in ourEase hearts.

TheMassage, article by April Minech, highlights her life, work and Gel to our supporting advertisers! last days, is inside “Roxy’ s Final Journey”.

CORRESPONDENCE pghpetconnections@gmail.com 724.292.7387 All Rights Reserved | ©2022 www.petconnections.pet

Introducing our new sister publications coming out in March, Integrative Healing

Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh is Helping to Keep Families Together, see pages 12-13 for magazine for people (and, of course, a pet section!) their story.

We are also pleased to announce some fun new things that we have in the works

CORRESPONDENCE PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONinfo@pghpetconnections.com We are also raising awareness on: The Many Roles of a Veterinary Technician”, by Jami Fisher, CVT, for PetConnections! of Blue Pearl, in our Pet Health & Wellness Section. Also, in the section featured is “How Sweet it is” QUARTERLY 724 -292-7387

We will publishing of your pet from winnersBehaviors of our newrelated weeklyto social about Diabetes in Cats andbeDogs

by Dr. pictures Becky Morrow, and Problem itching.

Published by All Life Media, LLC. Pittsburgh All Rights Reserved | © 2019 media photo contests! Also new, our membership sign-up button on our Facebook Petconnections was created in 2012. Our mission is page, where you can receive newsand about events andPet contests, special discounts Dr. Doug writes about “Healing with Divine Light Love” in our Holistic Section.

Bernadette to publish a high quality, informative publicationPETCONNECTIONS QUARTERLY fromCognitive our advertisers, discountin event PITTSBURGH Kazmarski writes about Dysfunction cats.tickets, join our PetConnections Birthday Club focused on the Human-Animal Bond.by: WePittsburgh support localPetConnections, LLC. for Pets, submit your story to be published in our Human-Animal Bond section or Published Remembrance, and more! businesses and also assist local non-profit businesses Pittsburgh PetConnections LLC. was formed In our Equine Affairs section, Kristin Hermann writes about, “Is My Horse on the Bit? for pets and people, to give back to our great in 2012. Our mission is to publish a high Pittsburgh communities. quality, informative publication focused “Ouron Sweet Kelly” isEvents featured in our Remembrance section. the Human-Animal Bond. We support local Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation’s Healing Hearts Pet Loss Grief Seminar, Animal Friends’ and CARMAA OUR SAP PARTNER: businesses and also assist local non-profit MAGAZINE PUBLICATION STAFF highlighted in our event section.

Carla Mader, Publisher businesses for pets and people, to give back We are working with our licensing partner dvm360TM magazine to pair great content! The Buzzy Photography, Photography to our great Pittsburgh communities.

This Issue partnership will mean online national and global exposure for PetConnections magazine!

Fran Sherman, Creative Director M A G A Z I N E P U B L I C AT I O N S TA F F Barbara Negron, Graphic Designer cover features Manon Farm’s Princess Showcase riding show! See the Equine Affairs section article ins Carla Mader, Managing“dvm360 Editor TM is theOur veterinary profession’s No. 1 print resource for news, product resources, April Minech, Assistant Editor April Minech! Also, a reader, Ruth Maloy-Carter submitted her heart-warming story, “Great to be Ginger”, Kara Jones Photography, Photography tools, and practice solutions. dvm360TM the voice of the profession Animal Bond section! Edwardcaptures Moats continues his avian nutrition articles,and withdelivers more great tips, in Feathe Bernadette Kazmarski, Kitty Korner Editor Kelli Koladish, Graphic Designer relevant, real-worldAlso, coverage while meeting the everyday ofour small animalsection. and we are revisiting Integrative Healing for Petsclinical with Dr.needs Doug, in Pet Holistic Edward R. Moats, Contentequine Editor veterinarians.”

ADVERTISING SALESCarla Mader, Sales & Distribution Manager Our rescue section features Nate’s reptile Rescue. PVSEC/BluePearl’s article about winter safety for pets. O Robin Reinfeld, Director of Edward Sales Korner has quarterly Homeless Cat Management TeamJune, has spay and neuter info,

by Bernadette PetConnections is published as follows: March, September, and special HolidayKazmarski. Equine R. Moats, Media Account Manager Hermann from Source.

412.780.2254 issue in early December!

Ourwrites printabout copyLearning distribution sites will be replenished every 6 weeks. Our A D V E RT I S I N Gonline S A L E Spresence has always been much greater than in print with now over 400,000 impressions!

To subscribe to your own personal copy of PetConnections, please contact us below.

Robin Reinfeld, Director of Sales, Pittsburgh CONTRIBUTING WRITERS PetConnections is published quarterly as follows: Early February, May, August, and November. Ou 412-780-2254 | rrcd@aol.com Doug Knueven, DVM, CVA, CVC, CVCH distribution sites will be replenished every 6 weeks. Our online presence has always been much g Did you know? PetConnections has evolved into a full-service specialized pet media company, print with now over 350,000 impressions this year. To subscribe to your own personal copy of Pet Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center providing services for advertising in and digital marketing platforms to help our sponsors C O N T R I B U T I N G W R I T E R S please contact usprint below.

Kristin Hermann grow their businesses. Contact us below for information on advertising or sponsoring!

Doug Knueven, DVM, CVA, CVC, CVCH April Minech Did you know? PetConnections has evolved into a full-service specialized pet media company, pro Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty & Bernadette Kazmarski Thank you for picking up this of PetConnections.

Be well and weplatforms wish youto a safe services forcopy advertising in print and digital marketing help spring! our sponsors grow their b Emergency Center Dr. Becky Morrow, DVM Contact us below for information on advertising or sponsoring!

Kristin Hermann Thank you for picking up this copy of PetConnections.

April Minech www.petconnections.pet 11 Bernadette Kazmarski Edward R. Moats Warmly, Spring 2022

ail

From The Publ

Warmly,

FREE!

Vol. 9 Issue 3

PetConnections PITTSBURGH

WELLNESS THROUGH THE HUMAN-ANIMAL BOND

Cover Photo: Hayden and Harper Stewart Photo By: Erica Stewart Roxy’s Final Journey Problem Behaviors?

Diabetes in Cats and Dogs Is My Horse on the Bit? PITTSBURGH’S # 1 resource for everything pets! petconnections.pet

Roxy

Cover photo by: Jason Dunkle

Carla Mader Publisher Carla Mader

Publisher Pittsburgh | Central Ohio PetConnections Magazine Please submit any correspondence to: pghpetconnections@gmail.com PetCon Expos Please check us out on the web & subscribe at: www.petconnections.pet Follow and “Like” us on Facebook!

Please submit any correspondence to: info@pghpetconnections.com http://www.facebook.com/PghPetconnectionsMagazine

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

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8 10 12

RESCUE & SHELTER

Animal Friends: Save A Life. Adopt.

PET HEALTH & WELLNESS

The Many Roles Veterinary Technicians Play

TABLE OF CONTENTS

4

HUMAN-ANIMAL BOND

P R E S E N T T H I S A D F O R A F R E E D AY O F D AYC A R E * Roxy’s Final Journey

RESCUE & SHELTER Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh Keeping Pets and Families Together

*Offer only valid for new clients at participating locations. Limit one coupon per family. Offer expires 6/30/19.

Grooming

Day Care

Boarding

Training

16

PET HEALTH & WELLNESS Problem Behaviors? Something to Retail Think About if Your Dog Itches

17

PET HEALTH & WELLNESS Is There Really Physical Therapy for Pets?

18

PET HEALTH & WELLNESS How Sweet It Isn’t - Diabetes in Cats and Dogs

20

HOLISTIC PET CARE Healing with Divine Light and Love

24

KITTY KORNER Can Cats Develop Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome?

26

EQUINE AFFAIRS Is my horse on the bit?

6 EVENTS 14 ADVERTISER LOCATOR 22 DIRECTORIES 25 CAT RESOURCE GUIDE

28 REMEMBRANCE

In Loving Memory of Kelly

29 REMEMBRANCE

The Garden of Faithful Friends at Jefferson Memorial www.petconnections.pet 11 petconnections.pet

3

HUMAN-ANIMAL BOND

Roxy’s Final Journey

By April Minech

The photogenic little Italian Greyhound was adopted in October of 2009 and started her whirlwind life at 4 months of age; her parents - Mona Gray and Jason Dunkle - had no idea what a celebrity she would become.

seeing her. Many residents had no visitors other than Roxy, so she held a special place in their hearts. On Christmas day, Roxy would come with bells around her neck dressed as Santa Paws, a reindeer, or an elf.

She was a spunky little puppy with a personality that was larger than life and a wardrobe to match. Several of her stylings were custom made by professional seamstresses and she had an outfit for every occasion. Her style and confidence led to a modeling career of sorts. She had her first phot shoot when she was barely a year old.

ROXY’S BRAIN SURGERY

She grew a fan base of amazing and loyal supporters. Some followed her since she was a puppy, and over the years traveled to meet her. She was always grateful and happy to do meet and greets with her admirers. Roxy had her own PO Box since 2014 and received fan mail regularly. The postal workers never met her but knew all about her. She also had her own fb page www. facebook.com/foxyroxytheitaliangreyhound with almost 8,000 likes and followers from around the world.

Roxy and her brother Greyson made 3 professional charity calendars together that were sold worldwide. You may remember them from when they graced the cover of the Christmas issue of Pittsburgh PetConnections Magazine in December 2017. At the time they were featured in an article promoting their 2018 Beach Calendar to help raise awareness about puppy mills. Over 500 of the calendars were sold worldwide and $3,000 was raised for Italian Greyhound Rescue Foundation, National Mill Dog Rescue, and the Erie Humane Society.

Roxy loved to travel and had a very active life. One of her favorite places to go was the beaches of Erie, PA and the Presque Isle State Park Facebook page even shared her photo on a few occasions. She made many new friends and followers on the beach during her visits as kids loved to spend time welcoming her like a starlet. Roxy would get into a downward facing dog pose and let the kids pet her. She attracted a lot of attention with her stylish beach outfits and hats with sunglasses and would lay on the beach like a frog dog and take in the sights.

She also took trips to local nursing homes since she was a puppy.

She loved to visit with the residents as much as they loved

4

Pittsburgh PetConnections | Spring 2022

In Late May 2021, Roxy started showing neurological symptoms.

She was circling to the right, her vision was decreased and she had back/neck pain. Her parents made several emergency vet visits and in June, she received a difficult diagnosis. Dr. Adams of PVSEC said that Roxy appeared to have a possible tumor and needed to be admitted.

Roxy had an MRI of her brain, which showed a large tumor on the right side of her head. While her neurologist said that 90% of these tumors are benign, that also meant 10% were cancerous.

The specialty vet said that the tumor was operable and was the best option to save Roxy’s life. Dr. Taylor advised that it was a very high-risk surgery, but it was decided to move forward with the surgery to give Roxy a second chance at life. The surgery was a success but left her with some side effects. She lost total vision in her left eye, decreased vision in her right eye and some facial paralysis. She spent 9 days in the hospital recovering.

About 3 weeks after the surgery, the tumor biopsy came back as being a Histiocytic Sarcoma, which affects less than 1% of dogs.

It was also rare to appear in the brain and very aggressive. Not the news her family was hoping for. She started chemotherapy 3 weeks after the surgery. Roxy received a total of 7 total chemo treatments, but her liver enzymes climbed and treatments had to be discontinued. Her pre-surgery neurological symptoms returned, and despite several attempts with further medications and a final chemo treatment, nothing could help. Her tumor progressed quickly; and the difficult decision was made to help her over the bridge.

Roxy received 125 cards from fans around the world, including Norway, Germany, and Australia. Her legacy continues to inspire and raise awareness for animals everywhere. If you’d like to send a card with good thoughts or stories of your own pet’s special journey, you can reach her family through her fb page above or mailing address here: Jason Dunkle C/O Foxy Roxy the IG PO Box 443 Washington, PA 15301.

Your Furever Realtors Judy Smith 412-583-3603

Michaela Smith 724-678-7614

SmithTeam@TPRSold.com

1797 N. Highland Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15241 412-831-0100

EVENTS

ANIMAL FRIENDS, thinkingoutsidethecage.org MARCH 11th

DineandDonate MARCH 13th

Alley Up APRIL 4th Animal Friends Bow Wow Bingo thinkingoutsidethecage.org/BowWow

BOW WOW BINGO

APRIL 30th-MAY 1st Human Animal Rescue 2022 Pittsburgh Marathon with HARP WWW.HUMANEANIMALRESCUE.ORG/EVENTS

Offering: • in store & mobile grooming • full & self service washing • healthy pet foods and supplies

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Sewickley, PA 15143 412-534-4052 www.larryslaundromutt.com

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Pittsburgh PetConnections | Spring 2022

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Assistance with Orthotics, Prosthetics, & Mobility Carts

Keeta Mobile Pet Spa • 412-545-3328 www.keetapetspa.com grooming@keetapetspa.com

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www.petconnections.pet petconnections.pet 11

AnimalFriends’

Saturday,

Scan for details!

April 9

hors d’oeuvres . drinks dinner . auctions . prizes fun . games . party animals Seats are limited! Register at

ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/BowWow

AnimalFriends |

|

Save a life. Adopt.

Each year, Animal Friends provides support and lifesaving second chances to thousands of homeless companion animals who have been abandoned, neglected or who simply have nowhere else to turn.

Your new best friend could be waiting for you. Save a life. Adopt.

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Saving lives. It’s what we do. | ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/Adopt

PET HEALTH & WELLNESS

The Many Roles Veterinary Technicians Play

By Jami Fisher, CVT

Veterinary technicians play many roles. We are phlebotomists, radiology technicians, laboratory technicians. We are ICU nurses and anesthesiologists.

Most importantly we are the voice for the voiceless. Every day we advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. That is the most rewarding part of being a vet tech: Knowing that at least one patient got the help they needed because of you.

As an emergency tech, a typical morning starts with rounds (and a cup of coffee since it’s 6:30 in the morning).

Communicating with one another as well as owners takes practice. It takes time to learn the medical terminology and the disease processes of your patients. But standing in the ICU and seeing those patients, you connect to them on a personal level. You learn their body language, their triggers, what they like to eat, and signs of their pain. When you take care of these patients, you become their family for that short period of time they stay in the hospital. On occasion when the ICU is light, we take the patients from their kennels just to cuddle them, because who says cuddling isn’t the best medicine? That bond can help them heal faster or learn to trust the hand that is feeding them. The act of actually taking care of a sick pet is rewarding when they

10 Pittsburgh PetConnections

| Spring 2022

start to feel even just a little bit better.

Alternatively, working on the treatment floor is a different environment. Triages always come in threes, or so some superstitious people think. This is the first chance to make an impression and get a general idea of what is going on with every patient. Did they walk in? Did they need a gurney? Did they wag their tail and greet you? Or did their owners ask you to please be careful because he needs a muzzle at his primary vet? Knowing the normal vital signs is also important as a lot of owners do appreciate just an update when in the ER to say, “Hey, Fluffy’s vitals are all normal so he is stable and will be waiting for the doctor to examine him.” This process can take just a few minutes to at least half an hour to accomplish, depending on the status of the patient. If vitals are accomplished and they are unstable, these patients move to be seen before everyone else since sick patients can get worse very quickly.

Bloodwork is another huge role for a technician. There are many places you can pull blood from including the jugular, the cephalic, lateral or medial saphenous, and sometimes a pedal vein. If a patient comes in with no pre-existing medical conditions, the jugular is the best place to pull from as it generally is a larger vessel and will bleed better.

Our more sick patients will have blood pulled from a saphenous

procedures such as spays, neuters, dental procedures, and, in

runs alongAthe Full P vein.

R EThis S isEthe N vein T that TH IS Doutside F OorRinside Aof the F R E EsomeDcases, A Ywound O Frepairs.

DA Yattention C A Rshould E * always be on back leg. Some patients may have a history of a clotting disorder or an undiagnosed disorder, so this is a good place to pull blood from to avoid causing large bruising or discomfort to the patient. In these situations, you should not attempt to pull blood if the vessel does not bleed well. Giving the patient a break between attempts should be encouraged to keep them less stressed. The cephalic is mostly saved for IV catheterization and is located on either front leg. This location is less likely to get caught in the pressure of the elbow and cause complications for hospitalized patients.

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the patient the procedure is being performed on in case they require fluids, more medications, or they surprisingly wake up before the procedure is done. Most procedures do take time to give medications, complete the procedure, and then wake up well. Patients can have complications during recovery, so it is always important to monitor them closely during this time as well.

Unfortunately, sometimes your brain needs to constantly be thinking about what needs to be done in that second. If a patient comes in and is in cardiac arrest, you need to communicate with As a technician, you will take a lot of radiographs. This is the team. One person is going to immediately start compressions, something I personally love because I love seeing new things and learning about the different structures you can see on them. There another tech will start obtaining venous access, another person will be intubating to begin breathing for the patient, and the last will be7 a time that a Mastiff or St. Bernard comes in for vomiting CONVENIENT LOCATIONS will be obtaining emergency drugs such as epinephrine or atropine or diarrhea that will need radiographs of their abdomen. This to encourage ROSC (Return of Spontaneous Circulation). Every alone can take up to four people to lift these large patients and two minutes drugs are given and the tech doing the compressions keep them comfortable on the X-ray table.

X-rays can be scary • East End • South Hills • Strip District should switch places with another. The doctor calls the owner, for patients who are not used to being off the ground, so they • Sewickly • Monroeville • Wexford who is struggling with the hardest decision of their life. You feel tend to give a little bit of a fight. Sedation may be warranted in • Upper Clair NEW fatigued, but you keep going because this is someone’s loved one some cases, when a patientSt. resists staying on the table. Oxygenand you will not give up until they ask you to stop. This decision dependent cases can take several tries to get the necessary www.TheDogStop.com is hard and can take seconds or hours so your team should images. Some patients can only stand to be out of the oxygen for constantly *Offer only valid for newatclients at participating Limit one coupon per family.

6/30/19. be communicating to achieve the best results. Being one picture a time with 5- to locations.

10-minute breaks between them.Offer expires a veterinary technician is more than just doing one job in a day.

You need to take your time with different cases, it may not always Your job can change in a split second and your focus will change be super quick to obtain the images for diagnostics. to the next most important task. Someone is never “just a vet In any hospital setting, a technician is expected to monitor tech.”

It takes a lot of mental strength to meet a certain level of Day Care Boarding Training Retail Grooming numerous procedures. In a general practice setting you can do expectation, but it is as rewarding as it is challenging.

DOGS IN THE ‘BURGH!

HEROES WANTED BluePearl Pittsburgh Animal Blood Bank

This is Henry and Keisel, two of our many dog donors!

Is your dog eligible?

• Between 1-7 years old • Weight: 50 lbs + • Healthy with a gentle temperament • Current with vaccinations • Never had a blood transfusion • Tested negative for blood-borne diseases (free testing by blood bank) • Must be on heartworm, flea and tick preventative • Not pregnant or currently nursing

Volunteer your dog to give the gift of life!

For questions, or to make an appointment:

pittbloodbank @bluepearlvet.com Follow us facebook.com/animalbloodbank Instagram: @pghanimalbloodbank

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RESCUE & SHELTER

Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh Keeping Pets and Families Together

Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh (HARP) finds new homes for thousands of homeless animals every year.

Studies have proven that pets provide stress relief and purpose to their owner’s lives (as well as countless other health benefits) - comforts that are important when other aspects of an individual’s life may be uprooted.

Pets are an important part of our families, and HARP is committed to help keep pets in loving homes, making sure that no one has to make the difficult decision to give up their pet because they can’t provide basic care. Animals are surrendered to our shelter every year because the family feels they are out of options. We work every day to provide these families with alternatives, implementing new programs to help our neighbors and their pets.

Through our support programs, families who are experiencing difficult times are given assistance to avoid the further heartbreak of losing their beloved pet.

Often, we see people prioritize food for their pets over food for themselves. We want to do our part by making sure that no pet goes hungry. Ellie’s Pet Pantry supplies community members with food and basic supplies for their pets, assisting those who are experiencing financial insecurity and struggling. Contact Ellie’s Pet Pantry at 412-345-7300 ext. 290 for more information.

12 Pittsburgh PetConnections

| Spring 2022

HARP’s free Pet Helpline provides caring, compassionate advice and resources to address managing P obstacles R E S aEpet Nowner T Tmay HbeI experiencing.

S A D Whether F O R youAneedFhelp RE E D AY O F D AYC A R E * your pet’s behavior, information on low-cost veterinary care, petfriendly housing, spay/neuter surgery, or other resources, contact our Pet Helpline at 412-345-0348 or via email at pethelpline@ HumaneAnimalRrescue.org, We are happy to help provide the care they need while you give them the love they deserve.

All-Inclusive, Clean, Safe Fun for HOW TO HELP

DOGS IN THE ‘BURGH! Donations to Ellie’s Pet Pantry are always needed.

If you can offer assistance, please deliver donations of canned or dry pet food to our East Side or North Side facilities. We welcome donations for household animals ofLOCATIONS any species, 7 CONVENIENT including rabbits, ferrets, birds, hamsters, and guinea pigs. Or you can shop our Amazon Wishlist at humaneanimalrescue.org/ways-to• East End • South Hills • Strip District help/ways-to-give/wishlist/

• Sewickly • Monroeville • Wexford

Make a monetary donation St. (humaneanimalrescue.

• Upper Clair NEW org/donate/) to benefit Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh’s community and pet support programs. www.TheDogStop.com Your gift can make a difference in helping animals to *Offer only valid for new clients at participating locations. Limit one coupon per family. Offer expires 6/30/19. survive and thrive Volunteer! Share your love for animals by becoming a volunteer for Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh. Our Day Care Boarding Training amazing volunteers support all areas of the organization.

To Grooming learn more about our volunteer opportunities, visit our website at humaneanimalrescue.org/ways-to-help/volunteer/

Retail

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ADVERTISER LOCATOR

Animal Friends.................................................................. 8, M Asgard Raw Pet Food...........................................................12

D

Best Breed Pet Food.............................................................15 Beaver Animal Clinic......................................................21, D BluePearl Pittsburgh Animal Blood Bank.................. 11 Catsa........................................................................................... 19

P M

Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation............................28, F

N

Cheyenne Veterinary Wellness & Surgical Center............................................................ 15, Q Q

Coventry Stables..................................................................27 Denise Marasco Howard Hanna.................................... 14

F A

Washington

V

Doggone Awesome Pet Services...................................17 N

Fuzzy Paws Pet Villa........................................................15, H

J

A H

Gentle Journey Veterinary Hospice.............................15 Hounds Town USA..............................inside front cover Humane Animal Rescue.....................................................12 J & D Waterproofing Home Improvement .........................................................................................................1 Jefferson Memorial......................................................... 29, J Keeta Mobile Pet Spa........................................................... 7

Shinier Coats, Healthier Skin & Cleaner Teeth

Larry’s Laundromutt......................................................... 6, P

Resolve Food Allergies & Overall Health!

Pittsburgh Pet Concierge.................................................... 3 Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center................................... 11, back cover Portraits of Animals............................................................ 19 Rebound Pet Rehabilitation.............................................. 7 The Dog Stop........................................................................... 7 The Smith Group Realtors................................................. 5 UBS................................................................................................ 3 Woody’s Dog Wash & Boutique.............................. 21, V

Please see listed pages for complete addresses.

14 Pittsburgh PetConnections

| Holiday-Winter 2022

All Natural ▪ No Preservatives, Byproducts or Fillers ▪ Limited Ingredients ▪ USDA Grade Proteins Made-to-Order ▪ Affordable Convenient ▪ High Quality

Advertiser Locator P R E S E N T T H I S A D F O R A F R E E D AY O F D AYC A R E *

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All-Inclusive, Clean, Safe Fun for (724) 413-3135 Page 7 - A All About Pets Veterinary413-3135 Hospitals (724)

We offer variety of services DOGS IN THE ‘BURGH! ALL pets welcome!

PageEast 9 - MMaiden Animal Friends 122 St. pamperedpawresort@outlook.com 122 St. Clinic pamperedpawresort@outlook.com Washington, PAAnimal 15301 pamperedpawresort.com PageEast 21 - DMaiden Beaver Washington, PA 15301 pamperedpawresort.com Page 15 - Best Breed Pet Food Inside Front Cover S VCA Castle Shannon Page 28 - F Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation Page 14 - Q Dog Cheyenne Veterinary Wellness & Surgical Center Walking/Potty Breaks Page 24- Costa Real Estate Pet Sitting in your home Page 27 - G Coventry Stables P Overnight Page 11 -End Dog Stop• South • East Hillsvisits • Strip District 15 - H Fuzzy Paws Pet Villa •Page Sewickly • Monroeville • Wexford M Page 15 - GentleFully Journey Veterinary Hospice Insured & Bonded • Upper Page 1 - I Healthy Pet ProductsSt. Clair NEW Page 29 - J Jefferson Memorial Page 13 - P Larry’s Laundromutt Page 6 - Paws Here Awhile Rachelle Pape *Offer only valid for new clients at participating locations.Boarding, Limit one coupon per family. Offer expires 6/30/19.

Overnight Page 15 -Daycare, Pampered Paw Resort and Do-It-Yourself Dog Wash Page 5 - Petagogy Page 13 - Rogan Rexford Animal Blood Bank Back Cover - N Pittsburgh Veterinary www.doggoneawesomepetservices.com 122 Specialty East Maiden St. and Emergency Centerpamperedpawresort@outlook.com Care Boarding Training Retail Washington,Day PA 15301 pamperedpawresort.com Grooming Page 27 - O Rockin Horse Stables Page 17 - Dr. Michael Savko F Page 15 - V Woody’s Dog Wash & Boutique Washington A Page 11 - Camp Bow Wow Page 6 - CARMAA G Page 3 - EASE Animal Massage Page 14 - Pittsburgh Pet Concierge Page 5 - o2 Derm Pet N Page 15 - Trixie’s Dog Fashions A Page 13 - Portraits of Animals Page 3 - Buzzy Photography H

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14 PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS | WINTER 2019

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PET HEALTH & WELLNESS

Problem Behaviors? Something to Think About if Your Dog Itches

By April Minech

Allergies be the cause of more than just a little scratching; it can affect how your dog thinks, feels and behaves. Canine atopic dermatitis is a common allergic skin condition in dogs that causes long-term and constant itching similar to eczema in people. Often, we can gain insight into what is happening with dogs by studying people.

Humans with eczema share their feelings that itching is not only uncomfortable, but the frequency of the itch increases their stress and can lead to other problems such as depression. So, does this same thing happen to dogs?

Studies like “The Itchy Dog Project” conducted in Nottingham, England looked to help find answers about why dogs itch as well as how it affects their behavior. Information was gathered by sending questionnaires to 4,000 dog owners and covered a wide range of factors such as breed, food and environment.

Part of the testing included whether dogs with dermatitis would display more problem behaviors (that could be from stress) than those without. Behavioral data was gathered directly from owners of both itchy and non-itchy dogs (343 dogs with the condition, 552 without) and scores were given based on how severe the itching was. The results showed that dogs with the allergies had more problem issues such as: mounting, chewing, hyperactivity, begging for and stealing food, attention-seeking, excitability, excessive grooming and reduced trainability. While enough study hasn’t been done to prove the itching directly caused the issues, it is known that all those behaviors are linked to stress.

Many allergies come from food, while other are environmental. A lot of allergies can be helped with a good diet, and in turn can have a stronger immune response to things in the environment that can’t be avoided. Most specialty pet stores have staff that can recommend diets that help with your dog’s specific symptoms. Addressing allergies before they cause stress can help avoid unwanted behavior issues.

Some dogs are prone to skin issues; white colored animals can have more skin sensitivity or breeds with wrinkles and

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folds such bulldogs are likely, though any dog can have allergies. French Bulldogs are known for having severe cases of allergies, some requiring lifelong medicines and daily care. One example is a Frenchie that needed daily Apoquel (a common prescription for allergies), a special diet of raw goat’s milk and salmon, bathing with special shampoo and daily wipe downs. Without this regimen, he scratched himself raw and worked himself into a frenzy where he screamed and dashed about. The itching drove his stress level up, which in turn made him more vulnerable to his allergies. Treatment was needed to ease his mind as well as his skin. His vet suggested Trazadone to calm him and more enrichment for him to focus on during bad spells. While this case is extreme, the success in stopping the stress/ behavioral effect on the skin allergies was obvious.

Medical issues can always be a factor in how a dog behaves. Just like a person is not at their best when feeling ill or stressed, you dog may be going through the same thing when you think he’s acting up. Even some innocent looking scratching can be a sign of more going on – just beneath the skin!

To read more in depth about the science as well as viewing the charts and data collected, see the full published article titled: Behavioural Differences in Dogs with Atopic Dermatitis Suggest Stress Could Be a Significant Problem Associated with Chronic Pruritus (nih.gov)

Is There Really Physical Therapy for Pets?

P R E S E N T T H I S A D F O R A F R E E D AY O F D AYC A R E *

By Lynne Marshall, PT, CCRT

Four years ago, I found myself asking that very same question.

My name is Lynne Marshall and I have been a human physical therapist for thirty years. When I began to notice changes in the walking pattern of my own German Shepherd, Bella, I began to take classes7toCONVENIENT see what I could do to LOCATIONS correct it. I never realized that there were advanced certifications which would allow me to practice on dogs • East (and cats). End • South Hills • Strip District

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I earned my accreditation • Upper as St.a CCRT, Clair NEW Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist, and trained in the US, www.TheDogStop.com as well as in Belgium with other *Offer only valid for new clients at participating locations. Limit one coupon per family. Offer expires 6/30/19. physical therapists and veterinarians from 14 countries. I finally have my DREAM job as I have phased completely into canine and feline Training Retail Grooming rehabilitationDay and Care have opened Boarding my own practice, Rebound Pet Rehabilitation, in Finleyville, PA.

and specific targeted strengthening exercises can be prescribed for working K9, sport or hunting dogs.

Orthotics (braces), prosthetic limbs, or mobility carts are other ways for your pet to remain mobile. Assistance is provided with measurements, fittings and referrals to specialists.

It is important that the physical therapist work with your veterinarian as a team to help provide the best treatment strategy for improving your pet’s health, so a referral is recommended.

Call, text or e-mail (412) 508-2285 Lynne@reboundpetrehabilitation.com www.reboundpetrehabilitation.com 3520 Marion Ave. Ste. 100, Finleyville PA 15332

Throughout a pet’s life, it may sustain an injury, develop an illness, need a surgery, gain excess weight, or just develop aches and pains similar to how it would happen in humans. Because our neurological, muscular and skeletal systems are so similar, physical therapy treatments can be beneficial in reducing pain, increasing function and improving your pet’s quality of life.

If your pet has acute pain due to an injury or after surgery, or chronic pain from arthritis or Lyme disease, there are certain treatment modalities to address it such as cold laser, electric stimulation, shock wave therapy, and pulsed electro magnetic frequency (PEMf). They all use different types of energy to promote healing by increasing circulation and decreasing inflammation and swelling.

Animals can also benefit from manual therapies such as Bowenwork (myofascial technique), massage, mobilization, Neurostretch, PNF (Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation), PROM (Passive Range of Motion) to reduce pain, improve joint range of motion and flexibilty.

Exercise is a key component in animal rehabilitation for improving range of motion (ROM), strength, balance and coordination which can be done on land or in an under water treadmill or pool. Home exercise programs are recommended and are designed specifically for each pet to progress between therapy appointments and to maintain their functional level after discharge. Weight loss/ conditioning exercise can be prescribed for over weight pets,

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PET HEALTH & WELLNESS

How Sweet It Isn’t - Diabetes in Cats and Dogs

By Becky L. Morrow, DVM

As you probably already know, diabetes has something to do with blood glucose (a sugar) and insulin. After we eat and food is digested, the glucose and other nutrients enter the bloodstream to be delivered to our cells. Cells need energy to survive and perform their various functions.

These nutrients also provide building blocks for the manufacture of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates that the body needs. The major source of energy for cells is glucose, but it is too big to enter cells without help from glucose transporters. Here’s where insulin comes in. Insulin binds to a receptor on the cell membrane, triggering the glucose transporters to move into place. So, for everything to work properly, we need insulin along with enough functional receptors that trigger enough glucose transport proteins to be placed in the cell membrane.

When things go wrong with any of these, diabetes mellitus results. Type I diabetes is caused by a lack of insulin being secreted by the pancreas. Like in people with type I diabetes, it is probably caused by the immune system attacking the cells that make the insulin. Dogs get this type. Type II diabetes results from a decreased response to insulin, usually due to fewer insulin receptors. The vast majority of diabetic cats have this type. Regardless of the type, diabetes prevents the glucose from being used as energy, leaving the cells to find alternative sources. These sources are fats and proteins.

Fats and proteins can be used in the short term, but the buildup of acidic compounds, called ketone bodies, occurs over time. If diabetes remains undiagnosed and untreated, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) can result. Dogs and cats in

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Pittsburgh PetConnections | Spring 2022

DKA present with lethargy, anorexia, vomiting, weakness, and gait abnormalities due to the acid buildup and associated electrolyte imbalances. Although all the body’s cells suffer from these changes, the most concerning is when muscle cells in the heart or blood vessels do not perform properly. If blood pressure drops too low, oxygen cannot be delivered, and all the organs will fail.

The good news is that proper diagnosis and treatment of diabetes can prevent DKA. If you have a pet who is eating, drinking, and urinating more as well as losing weight, diabetes should be a concern. Because diabetes prevents cells from using glucose, this important energy source goes out with the urine. Consequently, animals with diabetes will lose weight and have a ravenous appetite. Diabetics also urinate large volumes because the glucose in the urine takes water out with it. Loss of too much water causes more thirst and, hence, increased drinking. Nerves may also be affected, and some diabetic cats walk “flatfooted” due to neuropathy.

Bloodwork and a urinalysis will be necessary to make the diagnosis of diabetes. As expected, we are looking for a high blood glucose as well as glucose in the urine.

Sometime blood fructosamine is measured to assess the average blood glucose levels from the past week or so.

Once we know a pet is diabetic, treatment and followup monitoring can begin. Most diabetic animals will be treated with insulin injections. Diet changes are often recommended as well. This is especially important with cats, since a lower carbohydrate diet (often an all-canned food diet), can make a difference in their response to

therapy. Cats can even go into remission for periods of time and

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Pnot R need E S insulin.

E N TThisTis why H Imonitoring S A D is so F important.

O R A F R E E D AY O F D AYC A R E * Monitoring a diabetic pet’s appetite, approximate water consumption/urine output, and weight are all very important.

Weight stabilizes and eating, drinking, and urine output all decrease as diabetes becomes controlled. Periodic blood glucose levels are also important to monitor, but we have to remember that stress will falsely elevate our results, especially in cats. We get around this by having the pet parent monitor the blood glucose at home by pricking the tip of the ear (like a human pricks a finger). If we need frequent readings on diabetic cats, we apply a device that monitors the glucose with the use of a cell phone, just like in people! This greatly reduces the stress and gives us good data, so we know how to adjust the insulin amounts.

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I have had many feline patients on insulin for many years. For both dogs and cats, our goal is to keep the clinical signs of diabetes controlled while being careful to prevent hypoglycemia. Even • East End •seems South Strip District if giving injections scary,Hills I have • always been successful in • Sewickly Wexford teaching people how•toMonroeville administer them. •Even my mother who • Upper Clair NEW never even picked up a cat St. before I started taking in strays, became an expert insulin injector. Just putting down a plate of yummy, canned foodwww.TheDogStop.com was typically enough of a distractor, and Tiger didn’t even know he got aatshot.

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HOLISTIC PET CARE

Healing with Divine Light and Love

By Doug Knueven, DVM, CVA, CVC, CVCH

It is interesting to consider the term “holistic medicine.” This is the name of a medical system that treats the individual as a whole – body, mind, and spirit. So, if we’re talking about “whole” with a “w” why is holistic spelled with an “h”?

It turns out that “holistic” is derived from the Greek “holos” which means “whole.” Holistic was applied to medicine by the American Holistic Medical Association. The founders of that organization chose the “holistic” spelling because they wanted to emphasize the holiness of the healing process. So, holistic medicine acknowledges the spiritual level of healing – healing from the Divine within.

I believe that the bioelectric field is the manifestation of the Divine in the bodies of people and animals. The bioelectric field is responsible for the ability of the salamander to regenerate its limb when amputated.1 It appears to provide a template for the proper formation of this rather complicated structure with its blood vessels, nerves, muscles, bones, and other tissues.

Research shows that the bioelectric field is also the template for the formation of the body in the first place. Although some think of the DNA as the blueprint of the body, in reality DNA codes for the cell’s protein building blocks and is little more than an ingredient list. When you consider that every cell of the body contains the same DNA code, the question is, “How does the brain know to form in the head while the liver forms in the abdomen?” It turns out that the body’s bioelectric field signals just the right cells to form in just the right places.

The bioelectric field is responsible for the current of injury which is the flow of electricity caused by any cut or puncture wound to the skin. Because there is a difference in charge on the surface of the skin in relation to the subcutaneous tissue, any breach of the skin barrier results in this current of injury which is what simulates the body’s healing response.3 The Divine manifesting as bioelectricity is responsible for bodily development, regeneration, and healing. Holistic medicine promotes the use of prayer and positive intension for healing, but how might this work?

Research shows that people can influence the output of devices called random number generators.4 These machines electronically produce lists of random numbers amounting to a virtual coin toss. It turns out that when people were directed to project their intension to change the randomness of the outcome, there was indeed a shift in the readout. So, human intension can affect inanimate, electrical circuitry.

Other studies involved two people: a sender and a receiver.

They were put in separate rooms and the receiver was hooked up to a machine that measured the electrical flow on the surface on the skin. Then, at random times, the sender was told to intend to affect the receiver. Sure enough, during those periods, there was a measurable change in the

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| Spring 2022

receiver’s bioelectric field.5 Thus, our intensions can affect the bioelectric, Divine forces of another body.

While many healing practices such as Healing Touch, Reiki, and Medical Qi Gong involve the idea that the healer channels energy to the patient, there may be a different way to think of how healing works. We know that every living being is full of Divine energy and comes equipped with the template for a perfect body. Perhaps healing is about using intension to acknowledge and awaken the Divine within the other individual.

I invite you to try the following practice. Start by getting into a meditative state. Then focus on your heart and generate the feeling of love from the center of your chest. See this love manifest as dazzling white light. Now call on your highest self and on the inhale silently say, “I am.” On the exhale claim your Divine birthright and say to yourself, “Divine Light and Love” as you feel the Light and Love expand to fill your body. It is as if you are exhaling Light and Love from your heart. Continue this process for as long as you like, further expanding your Light and Love and allowing it to fill the space around you and beyond.

As you continue with the affirmation, in your mind’s eye visualize the person or animal that needs healing. See them right there in front of you. Now shift the affirmation and on the inhale say to yourself, “their name is” and on the exhale, “Divine Light and Love.” As you exhale, see the patient’s body light up as if you’re blowing on a hot ember. Imagine that you are reminding the individual’s body, mind, and spirit of its Divine perfection. See it, feel it, know it. Repeat this for as long as feels right. Finish by gently bringing your attention back to yourself with the affirmation, “I am, Divine Light and Love.” End this meditative period as you normally would.

It is important to keep in mind that the “healer” is not actually doing the healing. As healers we are responsible for setting the intension and going through the process of our choice, but the results are up to the The Divine. So, do your thing and let go of the results.

Becker RO, Selden G. 1985. The Body Electric: Electromagnetism and the Foundation of Life. New York: William Morrow and Co. McCaig CD, Zhao M. Physiological electrical fields modify cell behaviour. Bioessays 1997;19:819–26.

Kloth LC. Electrical stimulation for wound healing: a review of evidence from in vitro studies, animal experiments, and clinical trials. Int J Low Extrem Wounds. 2005;4(1):23–44.

Jahn RG, Dunne BJ, Nelson RG, Dobyns YH, Bradish GJ. Correlations of random binary sequences with pre-stated operator intention: A review of a 12-year program. Journal of Scientific Exploration. 1997;11(3):345-367.

Schmidt 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):235-47.

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South Pittsburgh’s first Young, vibrant Golden Retriever named Bauer is diagnosed with torn knee ligaments, after just 2 visits he is “acting as if nothing had ever happened”, read what Bauer’s dad had to say about working with Animal Healing NOW: Dr. Savko is awesome! I took my Golden Retriever to him when the vets thought he tore his ACL. He was limping and not playing a whole lot. Initially the veterinarians had me thinking that expensive surgery after expensive diagnostic testing were Dog Wash & Pet Boutique my ONLY options for my pal to have a normal life again. If that was the way it had to be then so be it, but I thought maybe there might be a better way so I got a second opinion. I am so glad I got another opinion from a veterinarian that referred me to Dr. Savko. Right away I messaged Dr. Savko frantic about my baby and he responded immediately and was very calming. I’ve

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since been seeing him for about 8 weeks now and after just 2 visits, Bauer was acting as nothing ever happened and playing with his puppy brother. Dr. Savko saw the progress himself and could’ve easily taken advantage of me and told me to come 7 days a week, but he spread out the visits and even cut a few out because Bauer was doing so well. NO MATTER WHERE YOU LIVE, THIS DR. IS WORTH EVERY SECOND TO GET YOUR PET BETTER. THANKS DR. SAVKO!

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DIRECTORIES

ANIMAL EDUCATIONAL EXHIBITS North: The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium pittsburghzoo.org The National Aviary nationalaviary.org ANIMAL COMMUNICATION Greater Pittsburgh Area: Renee Takacs, M.A., | intuitguide.com ANIMAL-RELATED ART, PHOTOGRAPHY & RETAIL April Minech Custom Portraits | Pet Inspired Art www.ladybugdelightz.etsy.com North: Kim Lenz, Behind the Lenz Photography 412-983-0981, https://www.facebook.com/ Behind-the-Lenz-127787624032093/ Buzzy Photography 412-371-5212 | anita@buzzyphoto.com 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 Frankie’s Friend Rescue 724-889-7011 | www.frankies-friends.org Pennsylvania Great Dane Rescue, 724-869-9185 Hope Haven Farm Sanctuary 412-366-1187 | hopehavenfarm.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: Humane Animal Rescue 412-345-7300 | animalrescue.org HAR 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 Guardian Angels Pug Rescue, 724-537-3466 www.facebook.com/guardianangelspugrescue Humane Society of Greene County 724-627-9988 | greenepet.org PEARL Parrot Rescue, www.pearlparrots.com

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| Spring 2022

BIRD & SUPPLIES Natural Inspirations Parrot Cages www.naturalinspirationsparrotcages.com

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

DOG TRAINING 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: South: Paula’s Professional Dog Services, 412-818-2482

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 EASE Animal Massage 412-447-8490 | www.easeanimalmassage.com

DOG TRAINING CLUBS South: Dogworks Training Center at The Canine Club 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 FEED & SUPPLY AGWAY - SOUTHERN STATES North: Mount Nebo Agway, Sewickley, PA | 412-364-4430 Beaver Agway, Beaver, PA | 724-775-0535 Mars Agway, Mars PA | 724-625-2340 South: Eighty Four Agway, Eighty Four, PA | 724-222-0600 East: Ligonier Agway, Ligonier, PA | 724-238-6207 West: Imperial Agway, Imperial, PA | 724-695-7388 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

HOLISTIC PRACTITIONERS FOR GUARDIANS East End: Judith Levy, Coaching/Energy Modalities 412-726-2659 | www.judithlevycoaching.com South: 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 Greater Pittsburgh: Thousand Hills Pet Crematory 724-355-8296 | www.thousandhillspetcrematory. com Sunny Acres 412-292-6701 | sunnyacres.6@gmail.com PET GROOMING North: Keeta Mobile Pet Spa 412-545-3328 | Keetapetspa.com All About Dogs 724-925-1577 | allaboutdogsgrooming.info Happy Tailz Pet Spa 412-759-7620 | Happytailzpetspa.com Larry’s Laundromutt 412-534-4052 | Larryslaundromutt.com South: Woody’s Dog Wash & Pet Boutique 412-714-4644 | woodysdogbath.com East: Animal Elegance 412-361-1177 | www.animal-elegance.com Cat Around Town Cat Grooming 412-466-7877 (PURR) | cataroundtown.com Greater Pittsburgh Area: Zoom N Groom (Sonya Patterson), 724-225-4827 PET FRIENDLY BUSINESSES

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DOGS IN THE ‘BURGH!

PET GROOMING SCHOOLS North: Pa Academy of Pet Grooming, 412-759-7620 PET REHABILITATION Rebound Pet Rehabilitation 4152-508-2285 www.reboundpetrehabilitation.com PET MINISTRIES South: Christ United Methodist Church 412-277-1096 | christumc.net Westminster Presbyterian Church 412-835-6630 | westminster-church.org

PET RETAIL/SUPPLY North: 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: Asgard Raw Dog and Cat Food 412-408-3355 | www.asgard-raw.com Baskets of Nature 724-831-9437 | www.basketsofnature.com

List your business today! pghpetconnections@gmail.com

Dig It Collars, dig-it-store.com Trixie’s Fashions O FDogD AYC A R E * www.trixiesdogfashions.com O2 Derm Pet Topical Gel, www.O2Dermpet.com

DIRECTORIES

PET RESORTS - BOARDING, DAYCARE, & ORGANIZATIONS GROOMING & TRAINING P Bactronix, R E S412-375-7886 E N T | www.bactronix.com T H I S A D Camp F OBowRWow,Awww.CampBowWow.com F R E E D AY Good Nature Organic Lawn Care Locations: 888-LAWNSAFER | whygoodnature.com Camp Bow Wow Pittsburgh Southwest Simple Sugars Scrub, Simplesugarsscrub.com 710 Trumbull Dr., Pittsburgh, PA 15205 UBS Financial Services 412-276-WAGS (9247) 412-665-1914 | lee.oleinick@ubs.com Camp Bow Wow Pittsburgh North Village Shoppes Scenery Hill 2327 Babcock Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 Elves Lair Christmas & Gifts, Jan’s Tea Shoppe - 2nd 412-931-WAGS (9247) Street Coffee Roasters, Velvet Envelope, WesterCamp Bow Wow Highland Park wald Pottery, Two Old Crows, www.sceneryhillpa.

1325 Washington Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 com 412-362-PLAY (7529) Greater Pittsburgh Area: Camp Bow Wow Pittsburgh East Fragasso Financial Advisors 1610 McClure Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15146 412-227-3200 | www.fragassoadvisors.com 724-733-CAMP (2267) J & D Waterproofing Home Improvement North: 7 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS 724-746-8870 | www.jdwaterproofing.com Dog stop - North Matt Arch Foundation, www.connectarian.com 724-935-DOGS (3647) | www.thedogstop.net One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning The Dog Stop - Sewickley • East | End • South Hills • Strip District 724-225-1644 www.onehourair.com 412-766-DOGS (3647) | www.thedogstop.net OxyMagic, 412-781-4110 | www.oxypgh.com • Sewickly • Monroeville •Lucky Wexford Paws Pet Resort Susan G. Komen Pittsburgh 724-728-1484 | www.luckypawsresort.com • Upper St. Clair NEW 412-342-0500 | www.komenpittsburgh.org South: East www.TheDogStop.com Fuzzy Paws Pet Villa Pittsburgh East Nissan 724-746-3899 | fuzzy-paws.com *Offer only valid for new clients at participating locations. Limit one coupon per family. Offer expires 6/30/19.

412-824-9020 | www.pittsburgheastnissan.com Hounds Town USA Unique Home Solutions 412-232-5285 www.uniquehomesolutions.com www..houndtownusa.com South: The Dog Stop - Banksville Rd. | www.thedogstop.net Retail Daywww.southpointe.net Care Boarding412-343-1171 Training Grooming Southpointe Chamber, Pampered Paw Resort PET-FRIENDLY LIVING 724-413-3135 | pamperedpawresort.com Greater Pittsburgh Area: East: Judy Smith Team Realtor – Berkshire Hathaway Pittsburgh Pet Concierge 412-274- 7618 | www.thepreferredrealty.com/ 412-856-8505 | petconcierge.org real-estate-agent/2242288/judy-smith-team/ Doggone Awesome Pet Services, 724-212-0427 details/ www.doggoneawesomepetservices.com Pinch Property Services The Dog Stop - Monroeville 412-445-8550 | PinchPropertyServices.com 412-373-3355 | www.thedogstop.net East: The Dog Stop - East End The Getaway at Glen Highland Farm 412-361-0911 | www.thedogstop.net www.glenhighlandgetaway.com The Dog Stop - East: Strip District South: 412-315-7050 | www.thedogstop.net American Destiny Real Estate Services Country Lane Pet Hotel 412-983-2220 | www.adr-usa.com 412-824-7991 | www.countrylanepethotel.com Amore Walkers Pet HoTail 877-716-6840 | amoreapartments.com 724-327-7297 | www.WalkersPetHoTail.com

PET SITTERS North Furry Family Pet Sitting 412-999-9524 | www.furryfamilypetsitting.com Western PA No Boarders Pet and Animal Care Home & Farm Sitting 724-219-7801 | Noboarders-petcare.com South: Pets at Home 412-655-7297 (PAWS) 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: Nancy A. Ruffing, DVM 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 Frankie Friends Veterinary Services 724-889-7011 | www.frankies-friends.org/low-costveterinary-services 724-889-7011 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 All Life Veterinary Clinics, 724-381-3446 East: The Big Easy Animal Hospital 412-908-9301 | tbeah.com Monroeville Pet Hospital 412-372-1100 | www.monroevillepethospital.com VETERINARY SPECIALTY & EMERGENCY SERVICES North/South: Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center, Inc. 412-366-3400 | 724-809-2000 pvs-ec.com

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www.petconnections.pet petconnections.pet 11

KITTY KORNER

Can Cats Develop Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome?

By Bernadette Kazmarski

With the experience of watching both of my parents and a few older relatives slip into what we used to call “senility,” I’ve often wondered if I saw the same sort of cognitive issue in my elder cats.

Today we use the term “dementia,” but “cognitive dysfunction” is a more specific term. Symptoms of both can range from barely discernible, like occasionally forgetting something familiar, to effects on even physical activity. Symptoms can result from a list of sources such as acute or chronic physical conditions or diseases, certain medications or treatments, organ malfunctions or imbalances in the body, even lack of sleep.

But unlike those treatable conditions, cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system, and our pets can develop it just as humans can.

SYMPTOMS OF DEMENTIA

leading to death, without visiting your veterinarian.

Diagnostic tools include basics and specific methods: blood and urine panels for general levels and organ function, tests for infectious diseases that may cause cognitive changes, blood pressure and cardiac function, and brain and spinal fluid testing.

My cat Stanley was my longest-lived, to the age of 25, and while he was sharp and clear for most of those years there were occasions in his last year when he stood and meowed in some random spot until he saw me and his expression changed from round frightened or confused eyes to a clear focus as he recognized me. But the process repeated again another day.

Another geriatric cat, Moses, had similar symptoms along with some physical debility a few times in her last two years, but they seemed to clear up completely between incidences.

Dogs, cats and other pets and domestic animals who we see on a daily basis can show symptoms of confusion or physical debility, but it’s not a good idea to just chalk it up to senility without looking into the cause—as it is for any time your pet starts acting out of character.

We can’t really perform cognitive testing on our pets as we do with humans to find out for certain, but even with people sometimes a diagnosis of CDS is a process of ruling out other causes. Cats are masters at hiding symptoms, so diagnosis is even more challenging with our felines.

My veterinarian and I didn’t have the opportunity to get Stanley or Moses an MRI or perform spinal fluid testing because of their fragile condition at their ages, but we did the other tests. Surprisingly, they were in the normal range in just about everything, with no evidence of any infections or diseases. Judging by Stanley’s slow decline my veterinarian gave a suspected diagnosis of CDS, but suspected Moses had a series of small strokes that she recovered from.

For instance, dehydration or an electrolyte imbalance can put those affected into a stupor that has both cognitive and physical effects.

Urinary tract infections are common in older bodies and cause pain while a related fever causes lethargy. Many more cats than we realized develop osteoarthritis at some point in their lives, which can cause physical and behavioral changes over time. All are relatively easily diagnosed and treated, usually with a positive results.

Today I would have some dietary and medication options for Stanley.

If you see symptoms of mental decline in your cat start taking notes on your observations, what you see, when it happens, how long it extends, any details that you can tell your veterinarian. This is a good practice at any time, but especially when you have some vague symptoms and the diagnosis may be a long and expensive process.

You can always discuss with your veterinarian what your budget is and narrow down to what will find the most information.

The fist inklings of dementia in humans are often bound up in our speech. People confuse or forget names of those they know well, or words they’ve used all their lives, and eventually lose other information, get lost, forget people they love, not just their names.

This can be difficult to discern at first with animals, who don’t communicate with the specificity of human language, but eventually change seems clear in vocalizations that are out of the ordinary for them, or lack of their habitual vocalizations.

Like changes in language, changes in sense perceptions can also produce symptoms that resemble general dementia, and in these instances as well animals can’t tell us what’s wrong and our first guess may be “old age.” Pets losing their eyesight to cataracts, or their hearing to infections, even sense of smell or taste to oral conditions, react differently to their environment. The change may happen imperceptibly as one sense degrades and they adjust until they can’t anymore, or a catastrophic incident like a stroke or cardiac issue may cause the change. Because animals can’t tell us they can’t see or hear or smell, they just appear to be wandering around confused, or hunching in a corner afraid to move.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

As with humans, the condition can be treated to slow the decline and improve cognitive ability. Adding antioxidants to your cat’s diet may help, and medications are available as well. In addition, environmental enrichment can help them deal with their symptoms, keeping things familiar and engaging them in play or physical activity helps to keep their cognitive function active.

SOURCES AND RESOURCES: Critical Care DVM, “Cognitive Dysfunction – When Your Pet Becomes Senile” (criticalcaredvm.com/cognitive-dysfunction-pet-senile/) PetMD, “Is Your Cat Suffering from Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome?” (www.petmd.com/blogs/thedailyvet/lorieahuston/2014/march/ your-cat-suffering-cognitive-dysfunction-31434) PetMD, “Cat Dementia: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment” (www. petmd.com/cat/conditions/neurological/c_ct_cognitive_ dysfunction_syndrome)

DIAGNOSING CDS

Cornell Feline Health Center, “Cognitive Dysfunction” (www.vet. cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-felinehealth-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/cognitivedysfunction)

Many of the above symptoms of dementia have a basis in another part of the body other than the brain. Though CDS may also be present, diagnosis, treatment and care would be different, and guessing your pet was senile might have them suffering, possibly

British Veterinary Association Journals, “Cognitive Dysfunction in Cats: Update on Neuropathological and Behavioural Changes Plus Clinical Management (study)” (bvajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/ full/10.1002/vetr.3)

24 Pittsburgh PetConnections

| Spring 2022

CAT RESOURCE GUIDE

Homeless Cat Management Clinic Schedule through June

painA medicine, rabies and Y fleaC treatment.

POur R clinic E Sis located E NatT207 Allegheny T H IStreet, S Tarentum, A D PAF15084.

O AllRappointments A F include R E surgery, E D Y O Fvaccine DA ARE*

CLINIC REGISTRATION

BY PHONE: call 412-321-4060 and leave a message. Please include your name and phone number in your message. Someone will return your call and complete your pre-registration.

HCMT is all volunteer and this may take some time. Clinics fill up quickly and it’s best to call at least two weeks in advance of the clinic you want to attend.

BY EMAIL: Email cathomeless@gmail.com with your name, number of spots you need and which date you are registering for. You will receive a confirmation email ONLY if you are registered.

NOTE: dates may be added and are subject to change.

FREE CLINICS (ferals only) 11/29 – Anonymous 2/19 – In loving memory of Milton Lendl 3/19 – Alley Cat Rescue, Inc.

4/16 –SNIPP of Indiana, PA. 5/7 – Grace H. Meinert Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation 6/4 –SNIPP of Indiana, Pa.

All-Inclusive, Clean, Safe Fun for

FAST TRACK CLINICS Ferals: $30 Pet/friendly cats: Females $55, Males $40 1/15 - 2/5 - 3/5 - 4/2 - 4/30 - 5/21 - 6/18

DOGS IN THE ‘BURGH!

More dates may be announced and dates are subject to change. Check www.homelesscat.org/clinic-info for the most up to date information.

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.

7 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS North Hills Spay/Neuter Clinic Fix ‘Ur Cat Spay & Neuter Clinic Low-cost Spay and Neuter Organizations and Programs TNR AND LOW-COST SPAY/NEUTER PITTSBURGH AREA

Homeless Cat Management Team 207 Allegheny St., PO Box 100203, Tarentum, PA 15084, 412-321-4060 http://www.homelesscat.org/ Feral Cats and Rescued Cats. Feral cats must arrive in a humane trap. Check the website for clinic dates. All appointments must be made by calling the phone number. No walk-ins. Ferals: $30.00 Fast Track, no-charge at free clinics.

Rescued Cats: Females $55.00, Males $40.00 Both include rabies, earmite and flea treatments. Other services available.

Low Cost Spay Neuter Washington County, Inc., DBA Fix ‘Ur Cat 18 West Pike Street, Canonsburg, PA 1531 Call 724-405-7FIX (7349) for an appointment. Spay/neuter clinics are by appointment only. Pets: $60 for females, $50 for males Ferals: $50 Download and complete application, mail in for appointment. https://www.fixurcat.org/spay-and-neuter/

• East End • South Hills • Strip District • Sewickly • Monroeville • Wexford • Upper St. Clair NEWFluffy Jean Fund (Washington County)

Packages at $65 and $85 Call Faith for Available Dates and Appointments (724) 941-5683 press 1 City of Pittsburgh Free Spay and Neuter for City Residents E-Mail: faith.b2@verizon.net City of Pittsburgh offers five free spays/neuters to all city residents *Offer only valid for new clients at participating locations. Limit one coupon per family. Offer expires 6/30/19. http://fluffyjeanfund.weebly.com/ http://www.pittsburghpa.gov/publicsafety/animal-control/spay-neuter.html Frankie’s Friends Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Programs at Shelters in 730 5th Avenue, New Kensington, PA 15068, 724-889-7011 Allegheny and surrounding counties Spay/neuter for pet/feral cats: Neuter $50, Spay $65, includes rabies, ear mite SHELTER PROGRAMS treatment, flea treatment. Also offers low cost vaccinations and basic medical Animal Friends treatments. https://www.thinkingoutsidethecage.org/pet-care/spay-neuter/ Day Care Boarding Training Grooming By appointment only, no walk-ins. Use website orRetail call to schedule.

Pet/friendly cats: $65 spay or neuter, includes pain medication – vaccines require http://www.frankies-friends.org/ are an additional fee.

Fund for Feral Cats of Pittsburgh Feral/Outdoor Package: $50, includes pain medication, rabies, FVRCP, ear tip and Reimburses partial funds to help spay/neuter feral cats flea treatment. Cats must be feral and in a humane trap to receive this service. (funds not always available) Humane Animal Rescue Po Box 55135, Pittsburgh, PA 15207-0135 https://humaneanimalrescue.org/veterinary-care/spay-and-neuter-services/ Lawrence County Animal Relief Fund (LCARF) East End: 66209 Hamilton Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206, 412-661-6452 PO Box 8514, New Castle, PA 16107, 724-510-4952 North Shore: 1101 Western Ave., Pittsburgh PA 15233, 412-321-4625 http://www.lcarf.com/ Pet/friendly cats: $70 spay/neuter, rabies, FVRCP (distemper), microchip Monthly clinics: $70 Spay/Neuter for Cats and Kittens! Includes a Feral/Outdoor Package: $50, includes pain medication, rabies, FVRCP, ear tip and rabies vaccine, FVRCP vaccine, (distemper) and flea and earmite treatment flea treatment. Cats must be feral and in a humane trap to receive this service.

Operation Spay/Neuter Beaver County Humane Society Butler, PA (for Butler County residents only) 3394 Brodhead Road, Center Township, PA 15001, 724-775-5801 Income-based spays and neuters for dogs and cats. Call 724-287-SPAY (7729) or https://beavercountyhumanesociety.org/tnr-and-owned-cat-surgery-prices you can email for details Friendly cats: begin at $75. Feral cats: begin at $35 http://operationspayneuter.com/ Visit website for more information.

Pet Search Clarion Paws (Serves Clarion, Forest and Jefferson County) P.O. Box 1653, Washington, PA 15301 Mailing address: P.O. Box 804, Clarion, PA 16214 Call 724-228-7335 for clinic information.

Current Location: 11348 Route 322, Shippenville, PA http://www.petsearchpa.org/ (Clarion River Hill, between Kronospan and Clarion Electric) http://www.clarionpaws.org/programs/spay-neuter/ SNIPP: Spay and Neuter Indiana PA Pets Monthly clinics listed on website, submit an application.

Westmoreland/Indiana Counties, Alle-Kiski Valley (Leechburg) Pets or ferals: $65 spay, $45 neuter. Includes rabies vaccine, ear mite check and Monthly low cost clinics, check website for dates and treatment and flea treatment. Optional services at an upcharge. Trapping and availability. financial assistance through Spay Neuter program may be available to Clarion, http://www.snippindianapa.org/ Forest and Jefferson County feral/stray cat caregivers on a case by case basis.

Low-cost Spay/Neuter and Veterinary Clinics Butler County Humane Society Fix’N Wag’N 1015 Evans City Road, Renfrew, PA 16053 Spay/neuter: $70. Visit the website for upcoming dates and places. https://butlercountyhs.org/clinic/ https://fixnwagn.com/ For current pricing and schedule information please give us a call at 724-789-1150.

THESE ARE INDEPENDENT CLINICS THAT OFFER SERVICES ON Washington Area Humane Society SITE DURING REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS. 1527 Route 136, Eighty Four, PA 15330 Frankie’s Friends http://washingtonpashelter.org/ 730 5th Avenue, New Kensington, PA 15068, 724-889-7011 Currently moving into new building.

Spay/neuter for pet/feral cats: Neuter $40, Spay $55, includes Rabies, Ear mite Low-cost Spay/Neuter Organizations in Allegheny and treatment, Flea Treatment. Also offers low cost vaccinations and basic medical surrounding counties (alphabetical) treatments.

These are organizations which are not day-to-day clinics but organize, host, http://www.frankies-friends.org/ sponsor or otherwise provide access to spay and neuter services.

Penn Hills Spay/Neuter Clinic Catnip Acres (Greene County) 11644 Frankstown Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15235, 412-244-1202 155 Dark Hollow Rd, Waynesburg, PA 15370 Open Monday-Friday. No longer offering walk-in services for ferals. https://catnip-acres.com/ Pet/TNR: Spay $56, Neuter $37, visit website for details and scheduling.

The Catnip Acres clinic was destroyed in a fire (no animals were harmed!) in January 2022 Also offers low cost vaccinations and basic medical treatments. but they are rebuilding. Clinics are on hold until they have a space for the clinic again. http://www.spayaz.com/Pittsburgh.html

www.TheDogStop.com

3967 William Flinn Hwy, Allison Park, PA 15101, 412-213-7353 Open Monday-Friday. No longer offering walk-in services for ferals.

Pet/TNR: Spay $56, Neuter $37, visit website for details and scheduling.

Also offers low cost vaccinations and basic medical treatments. https://spayaz.com/locations/pittsburgh-north-hills/ 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/ Rivers Veterinary Urgent Care Walk-in, urgent, emergency care as well as surgeries and regular wellness appointments during daytime hours.

560 McNeilly Rd., Pittsburgh PA 15226, Phone: 412-998-9030, Fax: 412-998-9034 https://riversvet.com/ VCA Castle Shannon Animal Hospital http://www.vcahospitals.com/castle-shannon 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

25

www.petconnections.pet petconnections.pet 11

EQUINE AFFAIRS

Is my horse on the bit?

By Kristin Hermann

On the bit means that the horse is stepping up or lifting under the rider’s seat to a connection with the bit. As a result, the horse is “on the bit.” I have heard it is also called “on the aids.” So what does that mean, on the aids? Well, the horse is connecting to all three of the rider’s aids : legs, seat, and hands.

A horse being on the bit is a primary criteria of a dressage horse. It is what separates dressage riders from other riding disciplines. As a matter of fact, putting a horse on the bit is an art and not easy. Most dressage riders have ODC or Obsessive Dressage Compulsion to obtain on the bit! A horse being on the bit is the holy grail of dressage.

The word dressage just simply means the gymnastic training of the horse. So can’t a horse be ridden gymnastically and not be on the bit? Well, of course, it can, but not for our dressage sport. It is the process of having a horse on the bit that engages the horse’s back to be part of the training. If a horse is round throughout the top line and on the bit, it utilizes its lifted back.

We train horses laterally and longitudinally. Laterally means the training of the side muscles such as bending and longitudinal is the horse stretching over its back. So when we “dressage” our horses, we supple and engage all of the horse’s muscles both laterally and longitudinally when they are on the bit.

the rein to the rider’s seat and leg.

It is a circle of the rider’s aids that connect to the ring of muscles in the horse. Called riding back to front or tail to the tongue, but it should really be called from the abdomen muscle of the horse to the tongue or bit. And that is just the beginning of dressage. Once a rider has that, the next step is learning how to progress the horse’s training and keep it on the bit.

There are many versions of the horse being on the bit. Some trainers say there should be weight in your hands, others say the horse should be light, others say there should be four ounces in the outside rein and 2 ounces in the inside rein. I prefer the light version where my horse flexes at the poll and chews the bit. I ride a Percheron cross, and I do not encourage him to lean on my hands.

A rider will feel when a horse accepts contact because everything riding is a feeling between horse and human. The outline or frame of the horse on the bit working over its top line, and not just in a headset, feels like a unified package back to front. Often riders feel the horse’s back lift. The old masters said the horse’s back should massage the rider’s seat!

I think I over think this, but my job is to educate riders in dressage, and This horse is not tracking up, or using the full range of I love to write about it too, not just motion of its stride. However, it is submissive at the poll Have you heard of the ring of instruct. When I teach, I share the and on the bit. A smidge more stride and it will step into muscles or ring of aids? This is the why and how we gymnastically train the bit with a higher poll. However, it is over its back horse stepping under the seat of an and round! our horses. I do not just verbalize unconstrained rider and accepting commands to get to an end result. connection to the bit. Then this stepping under is recycled I ask students questions when I teach. It is a dialog. A back to the hindquarters. When the horse accepts being on few simple questions are ~ what are your three aids, the the bit through this ring of muscles, it is “submissive” to the different reins aids, your inside and outside rein called, your rider’s aids. Riding the whole horse back to the front on the inside and outside leg called, or when do you use your leg bit creates a circle of energy. The horse is stepping under to ask the horse to go forward… And, the big question, how the rider’s seat, telescoping from the base of the neck to the do you get the horse on the bit? The why and how of what bit. At this point, the energy is transported back through we are doing! (Answers below)

26 Pittsburgh PetConnections

| Spring 2022

The photos in this article show horses tracking up or stepping

Punder R Eonto S Ethe Nbit.

T AllTdressage H I S tests A say D theFhorse O Rshould A move F R E E D AY O F D AYC A R E * unconstrained with the rider. Yet, so many riders pull the horse’s head in, crank, and disrupt a soft mouth connection and or ride so forward the horse is running out of balance, thinking they’ll get it to accept contact!

On the bit or accepting contact is an art and beautiful to watch when done with poise and finesse. The holy grail of dressage or putting a horse on the bit is one of the most challenging goals of training a horse in dressage. My opinion is that you are not doing dressage unless your horse has accepted contact. Once you have developed the feeling of a horse stepping over its back with a relaxed rhythm to the bit, then the dressage world will be your oyster.

All-Inclusive, Clean, Safe Fun for

DOGS IN THE ‘BURGH! 7 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS

ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ~

The natural aids are : legs, seat and hands

• different East End • South Hills • Strip District The reins aids are : direct, indirect, opening, and closing.

• Sewickly • Monroeville • Wexford

Sewickly • called Monroeville The •rider’ s inside leg is the active leg•itWexford asks the horse to • Upper St. NEW step forward.The rider’s outside Clair leg is called the passive leg and it keeps the haunches from falling out. (So not sure why it is passive) www.TheDogStop.com

*Offer only new clients participating locations.

Limit one coupon per leg family.

Youvalid askfor the horse toatgo forward as the horses’ s inside hind is Offer expires 6/30/19.

stepping forward.

How do you get the horse on the bit, by asking! Lol . “Ask and you shall receive,” we say at Coventry…

Grooming

Day Care

Boarding

Training

Coventry Equestrian Center

This is the same horse only this time stepping under with a longer stride or tracking up. Using the full range of motion of its stride and stepping into the bit as the poll is higher and nose is on the vertical.

Retail

Boarding / Lessons / Horse Sales

Dressage ~ Gymnastic Training for all horses & riders Learn how to ride & train with clarity for Dressage, Hunt Seat, Eventing, Western, Pleasure All horses & riders benefit utilizing simplified gymnastic training (dressage)

Rockin’ Horse Stables

Visit the “Home Schooling Your Horse” Facebook page for simplified training tips Kristin Hermann blythedale@comcast.net 724-206-9902

www.CoventryEquestrianCenter.com

Rockin’ Horse Stables is a full care Hunter & Jumper boarding and training facility offering beginner to advanced English riding lessons, summer camps and quality horse sales. We strive to offer a clean, safe, family friendly environment for our riders and guests.

Minutes from Rt. 19 Cranberry Twp. • Stalls & Lessons Available Horse stepping under and taking a full stride into the bit. Also, flexed at the poll and not heavy in the rider’s hands. Rider is showing good form and not • rockinhorsestables.com constraining the horse. Horse is “coming through.”

724-601-4706

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REMEMBRANCE

Our Sweet Kelly

By Diane Friske

About 13 years ago we lost our quiet, gentle, rescued collie. At that time, my husband and I didn’t want another dog. After six months of resisting the thought, we decided to move on and started looking for a little dog with short hair. As a volunteer that bathes incoming dogs at a shelter, I see a lot of the dogs coming in. Over my time there, many sweet dogs passed through my hands but were adopted before we put our application in.

other dogs that we’d had, but it was. We thought maybe because our children were all grown and out of the house, and it was just her and the cats. Or was it because we took her on vacation with us, to the beach, to the mountains and to visit friends. Maybe it was because she was the only dog we ever had that slept in the bed with us. Whatever it was, it was very special and filled with love.

One day the perfect dog for us came in. She was small, brown, and had short hair. She was also very scared. I looked into the warmest brown eyes and told her that I was going to come back for her. As soon as we were done bathing her, I immediately went to the adoption desk and completed the paperwork to adopt the small brown dog, named Kelly. She was 7 months old and had stayed in the corner of her cage all night. So down we went to bring Kelly home and begin a lifetime of love for a special dog.

Almost 12 years to the date that we adopted her, we had to have her euthanized when she developed acute renal failure. Our love for her was so great that we knew it would be very painful for us to let her go, but we also loved her so much that we knew we had to set her free.

We don’t know why our relationship with this dog was so different from the

Our hearts were broken and I still cry when I think of her and when I look out onto our backyard and see her grave. Her joy and love of life is greatly missed. I know that one day we will play fetch again. I know that her heart was mine and my heart belonged to her.

Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation

Caring For Families Who Love Their Pets.

Please, come in and feel at ease….

My goal and mission is to provide you with a comforting place during a very difficult time.

I will personally ensure that your pet is treated with respect and dignity.

Transportation provided from your home or veterinarian’s office.

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Cremations performed on premises at my Bridgeville location.

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Large selection of urns and remembrances.

442 Washington Avenue Bridgeville, PA 15017

412-220-7800

www.ccpc.ws 28 Pittsburgh PetConnections

| Spring 2022

The Garden of Faithful Friends at Jefferson Memorial

P R E S E N T T H I S A D F O R A F R E E D AY O F D AYC A R E * There is a special place in the southern suburbs of Pittsburgh that is open, cozy, and tranquil respite from the bustle of the surrounding community.

Affording beatific vistas of rolling hills and wooden glens that wrap around friendly nearby neighborhoods. Jefferson Memorial Cemetery has provided a a peaceful resting place since 1929 when it was founded by Harry C. Neel.

Jefferson Memorial Park was founded in 1929 and passed down to his only son, John D. Neel, who is credited with the growth and innovation that has made Jefferson Memorial what it is today. John’s eldest son, also Harry C. Neel, currently runs the business as President and CEO. Harry’s oldest daughter, Dagny V.N. Fitzpatrick, joined the sales department of Jefferson Memorial and is now Vice President in charge of Family Services. Harry’s second daughter, Whitney R. Neel, joined the Funeral Home team in 2013 and will become the family’s 1st Funeral Director upon completion of her mortuary degree in December 2016.

• Mausoleum Crypt spaces constructed for casketed burial that includes 5 separate buildings and 4 private mausoleums • 14 mausoleum cremation niche units • 14 gardens that contain cremation niches • 24 garden statues of bronze or marble

Unlike many cemeteries and funeral home’s today, Jefferson Memorial has a place dedicated to our furry friends that’s open, cozy and, tranquil – The Garden of Faithful Friends. Within the garden is the Faithful Friends Mausoleum, which houses crypt spaces for your pet, and unlike any other cemetery in the area, space for you and your pet. In that same building are niche spaces for pet and human cremated remains.

The mausoleum is an elegant visual feature that expresses meaningful sayings and showcases people with their pets. Like a full-service funeral home, Jefferson Memorial offers visitation opportunities to all pet families.

Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home Facts CONVENIENT LOCATIONS • A fully7handicap accessible facility We at Jefferson believe that a pet who gave love and loyalty through life • 18,500 square feet of floor space, beautifully decorated in deserves the respect and dignity of having their remains placed in a lasting and Williamsburg décor final resting place, just as you would your human counterpart, for they too are • A chapel with vaulted ceiling and cushioned pews to seat up to 115 people a part of the family.

• East End • South Hills • Strip District • 5 visitation rooms We have developed a distinctive pet room that consists of an arrangement • Sewickly • Monroeville • Wexford • Hospitality room and lounge with parquet hardwood flooring room, a display room for caskets, urns and memorials, as well as a visitation • A children’s room that offers parents and guardians the ability to express room. Our before needs representatives and Family Service team aim to serve • Upper St. Clair NEW their condolences without a babysitter (adult supervision is required) our pet families in every way we can.

• Lighted parking lot that holds 178 cars with 6 handicap accessible We all love our pets and want to know they are in a safe and respectful place. www.TheDogStop.com parking spots Our Garden of Faithful Friends allows your pet to stay at your side forever. It *Offer only valid for new clients at participating locations. Limit one coupon per family. Offer expires 6/30/19. truly represents our motto – Family is at the Heat of Everything We Do. Jefferson Memorial Cemetery Facts • Jefferson cemetery consists of 340 owned acres with 170 acres developed and 180 acres available for future development For more information on how we can help you in your pets time of • 1500 average annual interments need, please reach out to our trained professional representatives at • 38 traditional Day ground burial gardens including 4 lawn crypt sections for www.jeffersonmemorial.biz or call us directly at 412.655.4500.

Care Boarding Training Retail Grooming double depth burials

All-Inclusive, Clean, Safe Fun for

DOGS IN THE ‘BURGH!

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F a f i t o hful Fr n e d r a ie G at

Designed exclusively for pets and their parents.

Complete funeral and burial services for you and your faithful friend.

Including advance planning for cremation, urns, graves, caskets and memorials.

They’re more than just pets, they’re family.

Call today to find out about your PetConnections savings! | 412.655.4500 | Jeffersonmemorial.biz

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