Precious Pets Vol 2, Issue 4 by PreciousPets

Precious Pets The ultimate monthly paper for pets and their owners LIKE US ON

VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • NOVEMBER 21, 2014 • www.preciouspets.ca

In this issue

SPCA Beasts of

Fashion event

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Artemus

10 Bram’s “Call to

Every pet is hungry, but Little Bear recommends they be well fed

Credit Bram D. Eisenthal

Action”

Stepping tentatively across the great linguistic divide Barking Bram with Bram D. Elsenthal As we inch toward another yearend, this is MY time for a bit o’ thanksgiving. Remembrance, too. I give thanks for the health and ability to do this sort of work and I remember all the good people who have helped me along the way, people like my associates and in the case of this paper, my fine columnists. And our trusting, devoted advertisers. You may have heard this from me before, but please get used to it - I have not said it nearly enough. I am proud to announce that, in the very near future, we will start including both a French-language column and an English column, on a rotating basis, dealing with the world of reptiles. We have brought you Spiders N’ Snakez before, but

now the column will be written in English and then again in French by real-life reptile entrepreneurs Dawn and Yan, owners of Monarch Reptiles in the Quebec municipality of Chateauguay. I am very proud that Dawn and Yan will be joining us and I look forward to some insightful and entertaining material from both of them. While I realize that many of our readers may be bilingual Anglophones and Francophones, people who understand both of our great nation’s official languages (yes, Pierre-Karl Peladeau, English, too.... did you notice by chance that Quebec-born and raised Guy Lapointe spoke in English first when his number was retired by the Habs two weekends ago?), I

CA BO LL U S O DA K Y TO O TH TE E H S F UR OL OR IDA YS

truly believe that a bit of French material in this paper makes it better. When we become successful enough to do so, we will include much more French material. Nothing wrong with that... is there? But till the day we die, this will be OUR decision, not that of a bunch of bitter old bureaucrats living in the Stone Age. And, Franco-Ontarians, this pertains to you, too, not just French-speaking Quebecers. As for this issue’s cover theme, it has been our true pleasure to get to know Chuck Altman, owner of Westmount’s Animalerie Little Bear, as a tremendous advertising asset and as a friend, since we started over a year ago. Chuck is one of the most knowledgeable advocates of pet health anywhere

and when it comes to pet food, as you shall see, there are few who know more. Chuck is also the main sponsor of our monthly pet grief group, hence we have attached Little Bear’s name to the group. This issue also marks another Holiday Gift Guide and we have endeavoured to give you some good ideas to bestow upon your loved ones as either stocking stuffers or Menorah backdrops. Chanukah and Christmas are rapidly approaching. We hope you and your pet friends are all well in this increasingly-bitter weather. Whether they be cold or warm blooded, please keep them comfortable and safe. My best to you always. Stay safe.

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Precious Pets The ultimate monthly paper for pets and their owners Precious Pets is a publication of Precious Pets Media Group Inc. Volume 2, Issue 4, November 2014. Copyright 2014. Precious Pets does not accept responsibility for errors, misprints or inaccuracies published within. The opinions and statements of our columnists are not presumed to be the opinions and statements of Precious Pets Group Inc.

VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014

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PRECIOUS PETS • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014 • www.preciouspets.ca

The beauty of sleeping birds I love to sleep, don’t you? It is nice to bundle up in our little bed and dream the night away…but, did you ever wonder how birds sleep? I know you might think that I ask myself the weirdest questions and you are right. I was quite intrigued, however, by this and I will now happily share what I discovered. First, forget the idea that all birds sleep in a cute little nest! The nests are primarily built during nesting season in order to keep the eggs and the little chicks safe. Some birds don’t even build nest at all. When the nesting season is over, nests are usually a big mess full of droppings and parasites. Therefore, it would be a good idea if you have birdhouses in your yard and that you clean them at least once yearly. So where do our feathered friends sleep at night? Well, the answer will vary according to the type of birds. Perching birds like cardinals, sparrows and jays will need to stay off the

ground in order to avoid any vile predators. They will select a cozy branch upon which to settle down, usually in dense vegetation, bushes or hedges and when they are satisfied with their perch selection, they will usually fall asleep in a tweet. How can they stay perched while sleeping? Easy! They have a tendon in their little tooth-pick legs that will involuntarily clasp shut in a “Kung Fu”- like grip, when they are perched. This tendon won’t relax until the bird straightens its skinny legs. Little birds that sleep perched in trees will tend to sleep close to the trunk which collected heat from the sun during the day, which will help them keep warm. The trunk also alerts the birds through vibrations, if a predator should climb the tree. Water-fowl, like ducks and geese, will float on the water to sleep while others, like flamingos, egrets and herons, will sleep standing up. Because it conducts sounds and vibrations, the

Kitty cat style

There was once a time where if you were caught wearing a sweater with a cat on it, you were deemed a crazy cat person. But nowadays fashion has taken a fantastic feline twist! You can find cat flavored fashion in almost any store and online store out there. Last year, I took the proverbial pounce into Crazy Cat Lady land, and along with it came some absolutely needed cat clothing I bought a Soft Kitty, Warm Kitty sweatshirt… made famous by The Big Bang Theory. I also bought cat socks, was given a cat scarf and a cat purse, but since then it’s come to a cat screeching halt. But….. I’m telling you now….it’s only going to grow from here! But…..

whatcan I add to my repertoire by also doing good for the cat world??! Here are my top 3 pics 1 - Vans Shoes have come out with a hip little pair of running shoes that are covered in cats! Retailing for 55.00USD, fourty dollars of that goes directly to help the ASPCA. A product with a mission to rescue animals from abuse, whats not the like?!! And just look at how adorable they are ;) 2 - Lil’ Bub’s Happy T-Shirt, which features Lil’Bub herself! For those of you who don’t know who Lil’ Bub is, she is an internet famous special needs cat who does her absolute best to raise awareness and money for animal charities in the US. This T-Shirt retails of 25.00USD on Lil’ Bub’s website, and a portion of the proceed will donated to the ASPCA

Birds of a Feather with Chantal Gargano water will act as their personal little alarm system. Sleeping also help birds save their energy. Most of them will fluff their feathers in order to save body heat. Scientists have been studying the fact that some birds might even have a dual mechanism of sleep. While one side of their brain is asleep, the other would be fully alert and awake. This might enable them to stay on the lookout for predators while resting. It is also believed that migratory birds, like Mallard ducks, might also have this ability,

which would help them fly over long distances without stopping to rest. So, whether you are a “night owl” or an “early bird,” try to have a kind thought for our avian friend before going to bed at night. Unlike humans, they constantly need to worry about their safety while trying to get some well deserved rest. I wonder what they dream about when they fall asleep in their fluffy little nest or on their cozy branch… “Tweet” dreams, dear Precious Pets readers!

Chatty Catty with Samantha Havill add a local product in, so that we can support some local efforts! This is not exactly a wardrobe product, but I love the idea of seeing a rescued cat each morning! One of our local non-profit cat rescue centres here in Montreal, Petit Pawz, dedicates their everyday efforts to fostering, caring for and/or managing to adopt out an average of just over 100 cats every year. That’s 100 local cats saved and cared for, all by volunteers! Certainly a local cause

to support. This beautiful calendar is available for only 12$ on their www. petitspawz.net/en/The sales of these calendars will help fund Petit Pawz’s 2015 adventures in Cat-Saving! So there you have it…..a couple of things of my “Gotta Get It” list! I’m sure any of these would make a great holiday gift for any cat lover out there too!! Happy Shopping!!

which provides grants to organizations that support pets that need special care or extra help getting adopted. 3 – Last but not least, I wanted to

PRECIOUS PETS • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014 • www.preciouspets.ca

Every pet is hungry, but Little Bear recommends they be well fed by

Bram D. Eisenthal, Editor, Precious Pets

When I was a child – about seven or so – I had already been the “companion” to five budgies, 6-7 turtles and more goldfish than I care to even ponder. That’s when Casey, the mutt (mixed breed) followed me home from school one day and I had my first dog. When I was nine, he was hit by a car and he died about an hour later. I was in school and my mother lied to me and told me he was in the hospital... till I thought it over and pestered her one year later. I remember that traumatic incident, but I have no recollection at all regarding the food choices of my dear parents for Casey’s nutritional requirements. It is more than likely that my dad picked up dried dog food from

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FRIDAY. December 12 DEADLINE WEDNESDAY, December 3 info@preciouspetscanada.com

Steinberg’s. He bought almost everything from Steinberg’s. Today, pet companions are far savvier about what sort of food to buy for their pets, as well as which choices are healthiest. And I have heard from so many pet people that the staff of Little Bear in Westmount and its owner, Chuck Altman, are by far the best resource in the city pertaining to pet food. As he is a major advertiser of this paper, plus the sponsor of our monthly pet grief sessions, I thought I would interview Chuck about same. First of all, Chuck has always been a pet owner. He has three dogs now, as well as a wife and child, and he loves them all dearly. “I always loved animals,” Chuck admitted. “But I only had my first cat, Cosmo, in university. She’s 17 now and is living in Michigan. I only got my first dog, Doobie, in 2003, a year after I bought Little Bear. He’s 12 now and we also have Bosco, 5, and Whinnie, 3.” Chuck also admitted that people with pets are generally much savvier than they once were. “Clients today are very knowledgeable and they know what they want,” he told me. Little Bear is an ingredient-driven store. I don’t carry anything I wouldn’t feed my own animals. “What makes me an expert in pet foods? During 18 years in the industry, I have done my research and maintained open mind, I’ve had various animals, so I specialize in what I know. I don’t sell products for birds, fish, reptiles, rodents, etc,, because I don’t know anything about them. And there is a certain pride involved with doing my job as well as I can.” Chuck also spoke about his friendly, knowledgeable staff and I concur, having watched them serve one client after the other to their complete satisfaction. Food was often discussed, by personnel such as Suzanne Leveille, known as the resident “cat lady.” “Raw, canned, dry, freeze-dried and dehydrated foods are all available. But within each kind, not all are created equal,” Chuck stated. “Know your ingredients. Don’t read what the product claims to do, but what’s actually in the food. Do not read the front of the bag first, but turn the bag around and read the ingredients. The first ingredients (up until the first fat, usually the first five ingredients) make up 80% of the food. “Also, when choosing your dog or cat’s diet, it’s important to take into account your budget, your lifestyle and all of your animal’s dietary restrictions, allergies and intolerances.” I wanted to know how similar good eating is to

Want to help pets?

If so, your advertising dollars are put to terrific use in Precious Pets, the only paper of its kind. We love pets – animals in general, actually - and we try everything possible to help them. We even operate a monthly grief group for those who have lost pets and are sad. People who know exactly how you feel gather to comfort you, to share stories and even shed a tear or two with you (see the full-page promo this issue). Getting involved is easy: Contact Sales Manager Tina DiSalvia at 438-821-6769 and she will offer new advertisers a whale of a deal, this December only.

qwuoasfhjklcvb Call now... we need you and you need us. Hey, if dogs and cats can co-exist...

pets as it is to humans. “Well, animals like us need real food, not something synthesized in a lab,” Chuck said. “Want to see something really eye opening? Watch the documentary A Dog’s Breakfast: That will teach you something about the industry that you probably are not aware of.” Chuck also suggested that you: “Avoid foods listing the word ‘meat’ (which can mean any meat at all... he would not go into detail, but look for specific proteins instead like chicken, beef or duck. And meat by-products should be avoided at all cost, as well as filler grains, like sorghum, brewers rice and corn in any form.” Other comments on pet food: “Although not all kibble is created equal, almost all kibble is extruded at a very high temperature and then sprayed with a coating of sorts, in order to make it more palatable; Some foods

PRECIOUS PETS • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014 • www.preciouspets.ca

are baked, some are air-dried and others freeze dried, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. Finally, Chuck pointed out that “grain-free” foods comprise a big sector of the marketplace. “But not all grains are bad - some dogs do well with rice, oats, barley and such. Just watch out for the fillers!” Animalerie Little Bear is located at 4152 St. Catherine W., Westmount, QC, H3Z 1P4 To learn more about pet food, Chuck recommends that readers come into the store or email them at info@littlebearonline.com – or send them a message through their Facebook page: facebook.com/littlebearmontreal NOTE: They cannot do food consults on the phone, because they cannot tie up the line.

PRECIOUS PETS • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014 • www.preciouspets.ca

Remembrance Day – The unknown soldiers We observe Remembrance Day because it was sometimes the littlest, and the most average, who transformed our history. It’s not necessarily the most knowledgeable, sometimes not the tallest, nor the strongest, but when together they formed the collective, their “forces” bravely won the war. It’s the “little guy” who did the big thing - To make possible a life without fear, without discrimination, so we may all live free from tyranny. Corp Cirillo died just doing his job defending the memorial dedicated to the little guys who bravely confronted evil and won. That same day, Kevin Vickers, the defacto “Chief of Security,” the very symbol of order in the House of Commons, shot that gunman dead. Poetic justice? Or perhaps the spirit of the brave souls reaching beyond the grave in action beside Vickers, whispering - “standing guard for thee.” On Remembrance Day we pay tribute to the brave who challenged the threat to democracy, which we hold dear today. These brave men and women did not fight alone. Some of them had the help from our fourlegged friends. Throughout history animals have accompanied humans. Our canine friends helped humans

hunt for food in the wilderness, offer protection from the enemy, guard sacred temples, and search and rescue humans in peril. Here’s a glimpse of some of the amazing animals that helped our hero’s make that difference in war: Rags: A mixed-breed Terrier who became the U.S. First Infantry Division’s dog-mascot in World War I. Private James Donovan overstayed his leave one evening and stumbled upon this pooch by accident. He tripped over “Rags,” because that’s exactly what he thought he stumbled upon. His explanation to the military police was that he was not AWOL, but out looking for the division’s mascot. Rags saved Donovan from the military police that day and both were subsequently deployed in the field for duty. Rags achieved great notoriety and fame when he saved many lives in the Meuse-Argonne Campaign, by delivering a vital message despite being bombed, gassed and partially blinded. This little guy also later saved many men in the field. His little canine ears were acute to the incoming shellfire, so Rags would initially mimic the crouch down position of the soldiers, forewarning them to the in-coming fire.

For Pets And People In Motion

Spiritual Seedlings with Juliana Pavelka

After Donovan died in action, Rags was adopted by Major Hardenberg, until he was reunited with members of the 18th Infantry Regiment who had known him in France. Rags was presented with a number of medals and awards. (read Rags: Hero Dog of WW1, Amazon Books) Chips, WWII dog hero: In 1990 Disney made a movie about this celebrated dog. Chips was a German Shepherd-Husky mix, donated to the war effort by the Wren family of New York. Chips helped to take down gunners, capture prisoners and defend his handler and the soldiers from the enemy. He’s credited as being one of the most decorated war heroes for his bravery and skill. (read Chips the War Dog – Amazon Books). Sergeant Gander, a Canadian hero: Gander, a.k.a.“Pal,” was a black Newfoundland dog that served with the Royal Rifles of Canada in WWII. He was awarded the Dickin Medal, which is the animal equivalent to the Victoria Cross. At the insistence of the surviving soldiers of battle, Gander was listed upon the Veterans Memorial Wall of Canada, in Ottawa. On documented occasions, Gander saved the lives of the wounded soldiers in the Battle of Lye Mun, on Hong Kong Island, in December 1941. Gander died in action when he picked up a grenade in his mouth and carried it towards the enemy. (read Sergeant Gander, A Canadian Hero - Amazon Books). Upon looking for stories of war dogs, I learned that there are other famous canines, such as: Stubby the Pit Bull and Sallie (a Staffordshire bull terrier) and we also remember Winston Churchill’s animals and the smallest of the “little guys,” Smokey, a tiny Yorkshire Terrier. He helped save troops and later entertained them with tricks while they were in hospital. Animal Planet has noted that Smokey was the first therapy dog. Dr. Charles Mayo, of the famed Mayo Clinique, who was the commanding officer at that time, allowed Smokey to go on hospital rounds and stay bedside his handler, Corporal William Wynne, when he was injured. After the war, Smokey and Wynne traveled to Hollywood and became national sensations. Out of respect and honor for all the

PRECIOUS PETS • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014 • www.preciouspets.ca

“little guys,” those that made a huge historic difference... For their unfathomable passion to boldly defend the integrity of social equality and liberty for all.... those with two-legs, as well as those with four-paws, I proudly wear my poppy. ED. NOTE: While we realize homage was paid to our fallen soldiers (and animals also paid the ultimate price), over two weeks ago, we felt that this sort of remembrance is fitting year-round... especially considering the sad events that took place in Canada this year.. Thanks to Juliana for hitting the point home so succinctly and for her astute research.

Editorial Board The Editorial Board of Precious Pets is comprised of individuals connected to the pet field in some manner, who are ready to advise the partners and/or staff when

asked for their opinions. They are:

Michael J. Cohen, Councilor, City of Cote Saint-Luc (Quebec) and founder of its Cats Committee Averil Robinson, owner of Pet Friends (Vaudreuil, Quebec) Gerdy Gouron, owner of Gerdy’s Rescues and Adoptions (Quebec) Dr. Wojciech Wybranowski – Veterinarian (Montreal’s West Island) Gaby Dufresne-St. Cyr – Owner of Dogueshop (Montreal) Suzanne VIlleneuve – President: Suzanne Villeneuve Associates Inc. & SVbiz Inc.

Our lives are a canvas that we paint our experiences upon Our homes are a canvas that we paint our lives on Our neighbourhoods are canvasses where we collectively create Our cities are canvasses of our collective neighbourhoods Our country is a canvas of the collective cities Our world is a canvas of all the countries and the Universe is a masterpiece of creation.

ACTION (WESTMOUNT) INC. Agence immobilière • Real Estate Agency 1314 avenue Greene, Westmount, Québec, H3Z 2B1 O.

514 933-6781

514.347.1928

bunnyberke@yahoo.ca

bunnyberkerealestate.com | canvas-mag.com

PRECIOUS PETS • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014 • www.preciouspets.ca

SPCA’s first annual Beasts of Fashion event a huge success by

Bram D. Eisenthal, Editor, Precious Pets

Cat Around Films Photo

Two weeks ago, the Montreal branch of the SPCA held a fundraising event that proved very auspicious for our domestic animals. Their first-annual Beasts of Fashion event, held this year at the Corona Theatre, not only raised in excess of $120,000 but also drew a full house, the majority of whom paid an average $145 ticket price to dine on delectable vegan hors d’oeuvres, watch a fun and classy selection of mod-

els and dogs slink along a catwalk (and how ironic is that?) and bid on some outstanding door-prizes donated by the likes of Le Club de Hockey Canadien, Hovey Manor, world-renowned Montreal-based artist Tom Hopkins and more. Precious Pets was invited to attend the event and we are glad we did. It is extremely heart-warming to see individuals concerned about pet-welfare so thoroughly devoted to this important cause. It is also heart-warming to learn that individuals such as Barbara Erhardt and her daughter Hillary, both tragically deceased, were as committed to animal welfare as they could possibly be. An award in their names was bestowed upon the Devine Family: Alanna, the SPCA’s Director of Advocacy and her parents Arlene, an active SPCA volunteer and Donnie, an SPCA donor and community volunteer. But for a Habs fan – and make no doubt ever about the fact that the Habs are officially the favourite team of Precious Pets – this truly was a most memorable event. The majority of models were either wives or companions of Montreal Canadiens players and the evening’s top auctioned item was a Habs jersey signed by the entire team. It sold for a cool $1,500 and went to Anne-France Goldwater, a Montreal lawyer and television personality, best known as the arbitrator on L’Arbitre, a

Players of the Montreal Canadiens turned out to fete Maitre Anne-France Goldwater, winning bidder of a Habs sweater signed by the entire team. The sweater is being held aloft by Maripier Morin, companion to forward Brandon Prust of the Canadiens. At far right is Habs goalie Carey Price next to Prust at the end. Cat Around Films Photo

show which debuted on the V television network in 2011. Following her winning bid, several Montreal Canadiens players assembled to congratulate her, including Carey Price, Brendan Gallagher and Brendan Prust. Best of all, Precious Pets bumped into the outstanding Habs goalie outside the Corona and had a chance to speak with him for a few minutes. Truly, everyone went home happy that evening. We look forward to being involved in Beasts of Fashion 2015.

Bram D. Eisenthal Photo

PRECIOUS PETS • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014 • www.preciouspets.ca

Cat Around Films Photo

Bram D. Eisenthal Photo

The Precious Pets Winter 2014 Holiday Gift Guide by

Bram D. Eisenthal, Editor, Precious Pets

So, you’ve

been saving your pennies

and you don’t know what for?

Well,

we have some gift suggestions for you, whether you are a pet companion or simply like buying presents for that favourite pet companion in your life.

Whatever

your religious persuasion,

this is as good a time as any to make someone special howl with delight.

Happy shopping!

Frame it all, at Conservart in NDG We have used their services many, many times and have never been disappointed. If you have something special to frame, from regular-sized pet or other photos, to invaluable paintings, to archival material requiring museum-quality work, to hockey sweaters, baby booties or pet memorial items, Conservart is the place. They will even offer you an even better deal if you mention Precious Pets. Conservart 6160 Monkland (just east of Grand) Montreal, Quebec 514-485-3543 www.conservart.ca

a a a Westmount’s finest pet store: Little in name only Owner Chuck Altman is this issue’s cover story for his unbeatable quality food, but if you want interesting, quality gifts, as well, you have to check out his Animalerie Little Bear store in Westmount. As a prime example, they stock very unique Flag Beds for your cherished pets. These beds are large, comfortable and not only gorgeous as is (with the British, Canadian and pirate/skull-and-crossbones flags available, amongst other designs) but the designs can also be customized just for you. Prices on the beds range from $70 - $110. Animalerie Little Bear 4152 St. Catherine St. W. Westmount, Quebec H3Z 1P6 (514) 935-3425 littlebearonline.com

g g g Monarch: Everything for the reptile lover If you are a fan of snakes, lizards and other uber-interesting crawling or slithering animal life, Monarch Reptiles has everything you will need to feed and house your favourite pet. This year, Monarch is offering shoppers a really nice starter kit for reptile buffs of all ages:

The Zoomed Leopard Gecko Starter Kit is in stock and yours for the super-low price of $160, down from the SRP of $207.99. A Leopard Gecko is also available at half-price for anyone who buys the starter kit. Take a drive, pay them a visit and tell Dawn and Yan that the folk at Precious Pets say ‘hey!” Or “bonjour” if you wish. Bon giorno, too! Monarch Reptiles 100 Kepler, Unit 7 Chateauguay, Quebec J6K 5E4 450-844-6401 www.facebook.com/monarchreptiles

e e e

t t t Can’t nip just a little of this catty delight Local (Montreal-based) entrepreneur Beverly Auerbach turns a little imagination and magic into a winning combination for your cat. Her charming and colourful catnip mice are affordable gifts (and great stocking stuffers or Chanukah gifts... some of the mice even sport kipas!) you can find for just $10 at three Montreal shops: Animalerie Little Bear, Baker Animal Hospital in Ville de Mont Royal and Clinique Veterinaire M. B., 3400 St. Antoine, corner Greene. The money raised helps benefit Gerdy’s Rescues. Contact Beverly at auerpets@gmail. com to make alternate arrangements.

q q q Sleep on your favourite pets! Kaliswag Custom Creations are handmade photographic pillows and swag made just for you! Our specialty pillows are soft and plushy and come in a variety of sizes: 6x6, 8x8 or 14x14, but we can also customize them to any size. They range in price from $30- $50.00. Give a gift with heart and soul. Twenty percent of all our sales go to support the Guardian’s Best Animal Rescue Foundation (see promo in this issue). We ship locally and globally. Info at: www.kaliswag.ca or create@kaliswag.ca

CAT (and DOG)-alogues feature great pet-giving ideas I’d also like to draw your attention to some of the fine on-line businesses, whose printed catalogues I receive regularly and enjoy perusing. Many of these businesses have a large number of pet-related items and I am sure you can have them shipped quickly for holiday gift-giving. I will list a few of the better businesses here: Collectables Direct (Canadian) collectablesdirect.ca Bits and Pieces (Canadian) bitsand piecescanada.ca Hammacher Schlemmer (American) (one of my personal favourites.. Superior service to Canada... no-timelimit return policy) hammacher.ca Victorian Trading (www.victoriantradingco.com) is one of the best of the catalogues, because while they are located in the U.S., they do not penalize you for being Canadian.... like some others do (such as Signals and Wireless, neither listed here because I think they are terrible in the manner they treat us northern foreigners). The Yuletide 2014 issue is up now and you will find many whimsically old-fashioned gifts, including pet-related items.

o o o No hissing and clawing, just a memorable Gorey shopping experience Finally, late writer/illustrator Edward Gorey (Tony Award-winner for Best Costume Design on the theatrical production of Dracula, mounted on Broadway in the late 1970s) was one of my favourite all-time Creators of Creepy and his Edward Gorey House Museum in Yarmouth Port, MA (off Cape Cod) has a tremendous online business. Gorey adored cats – even though, yes, he proudly wore a monstrous fur coat during the chillier months (and I make no apologies for the late Mr. Gorey, who was reputed to be very good to animals) - and you can find many cat-related items on this site, at edwardgoreyhouse.org The Edward Gorey House and Museum 508-362-3909 EDITOR’S NOTE: Our respect for Mr. Gorey’s legendary body of work notwithstanding, Precious Pets has an official stance on animal cruelty and we will not support or accept advertising from latter-day businesses that deal with puppy mills or kill animals for their fur, for instance. But once upon a time, these things did exist and anyone who bought fur or supported a store that sold cats and dogs years ago, is just about as guilty as we all are. Most of us did not know any better during the “good ol’ days.” I hope we have learned some valuable lessons since then. As guilty as he was for wearing his famous fur coat, Mr. Gorey was reputed to be an amazing and kind companion to his many cats... and that is good enough for us.

PRECIOUS PETS • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014 • www.preciouspets.ca

Helping puppies become amazing dogs Did you just get a new puppy? Thinking of getting a new puppy? You might ask what’s the best thing you can do for your puppy to ensure that he grows up to become a marvelous dog. And the answer to that is proper, positive, adequate socialization. Contrary to what many believe, socialization is not an ongoing process in a dog’s life, but rather is a very short period that occurs within puppyhood. This critical window of opportunity closes by the time the puppy reaches 16 weeks of age. Some vets recommend not exposing the puppy to other dogs before their second set of shots, to avoid dangerous diseases, such as Parvo. The problem with this though, is that by the time the puppy is old enough to get his second set of shots, his window of socialization is closing. And while Parvo is real, and very dangerous, many puppies die from lack of proper socialization rather than due to catching Parvo. We just need to be smart and educated about how and

where we expose our puppy. Dog parks are a definite no-no, as Parvo can live in the dirt for up to three years. It’s important to introduce the puppy to healthy adult dogs. Dogs of friends, who, by the way, we know are up to date on their shots. We just need to avoid heavily trafficked dog areas. It’s also best if they meet adult dogs, rather than running amok with other puppies during puppy parties. Pups learn best from adult dogs, not from other puppies. That would be like sending your 14-year old to learn about college by sending him or her to a frat party! This also means that the puppy needs to experience as many things as he’ll experience later on in life, but now while he is still young... and in a very positive manner. This teaches the puppy to deal with new things and new experiences with as little stress as possible. We do need to remember though, that the experiences need to be positive for the puppy. If we notice the pup becoming stressed, then we need to

Doggie Doggie DoDo with Meira Frankl

with Meira Frankl remove him from the situation. We also need to take care to not just expose the puppy to new things and make him just deal with it. Forcing a puppy to stand in traffic will not help him be comfortable with it, if he’s uncomfortable with it to begin with. So think thunder storms, fire-

works, parties, kids crying, kids playing, traffic, men, women, old, young, toys, umbrellas, hats and anything else that you can think of - Best to meet it now, than to be unsure of it later! Happy Training!

Welcome to the world,

Artemus!

Since Juliana Pavelka and her husband Keith have joined the Precious Pets family, we have become quite enthralled with their points-of-view toward animals and especially their love for Irish Wolfhounds. So it is with great affection that we help introduce to the pet world Artemus, the Irish Wolfhound puppy that Juliana and Keith recently adopted and brought home. Little Artemus, be forewarned: If this couple’s affection for and kindness toward their massive 175-lb. Irish Wolfhound Hoolie (pictured) is any indication, hold on tight... their love for you will be like a hurricane.

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PRECIOUS PETS • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014 • www.preciouspets.ca

When winter bites Pet Healer with Barbara Etcovitch

Freezing winter temperatures are not all that far off. And the cold winds and icy, frigid pavement that accompany the terribly cold days and nights are hazardous to small animals. It is a misconception that dogs and cats can withstand the cold because they have fur, so it is important not to let your animals out if the weather is extremely cold, if they have a habit of staying out all night and/or if you are not going to be home to let them back in. Far too often, domestic animals unnecessarily succumb to frostbite so guardians need to be aware and informed. If frostbite doses occur, here is what you can do to bring your animal back to normal. First, one needs to recognize the symptoms of frostbite. In superficial frostbite, only the skin is frozen, whereas in deep frostbite, the tissue beneath the skin is also frozen. Symptoms include shivering and ice on the body and limbs. In the early stages, (superficial frostbite) the tissues will be pale and white, the surface will be hard when palpated and feel cold. When the deeper tissues are affected (deep frostbite) the same applies but, in addition, the area is swollen and hard, it blisters, and as the circulation returns the skin will become red and swollen and may later peel. Eventually it will look like a burn and you may see a line between the live and dead tissue. Very dark or black tissue indicates an advanced stage of frostbite and signifies that the tissue is dead. The extent of the damage may not be apparent for several weeks. The dead skin will separate in one to three weeks. In severe cases parts of the tail or the tips of the ears may fall off. When you recognize either of these states, remove your pet from exposure. Protect but DO NOT RUB the frozen part. The damaged tissue can be very easily destroyed. Warm the affected area(s) by immersing in warm

(not hot) water for 20 minutes or until the tissue regains some of its color. Never apply snow or ice. Tissue damage is compounded if thawing is followed by freezing. Several homeopathic remedies can also assist in bringing your pet back to normal. These can be administered by crushing several pellets between two sheets of white paper and placing the residue on the tongue with a plastic spoon. The following three remedies which will help the condition. 1. Agaricus Muscarius 30C is one of the main remedies for frostbite. Give one dose every 15 minutes up to six doses and observe the animal’s response. If it continues to improve on the remedy, stay with it and decrease the doses as your companion normalizes. 2. Apis Mellifica 30C will treat the severe burning pain that accompanies the thawing skin. Give one dose every 15 minutes, up to six doses. Decrease the doses with continued improvement. 3. Lachesis 30C is indicated if the skin turns purple-red and blotchy, swollen and painful. Give one dose every hour for up to six doses, decreasing the doses with continued improvement. As always, err on the cautious side and take your companion to the vet to ensure that there is nothing more serious lurking behind the frostbite. Barbara Etcovitch is a Classical Homeopath, Interfaith Minister, freelance writer and lecturer. She has a BA from Sir George Williams University, a MA in Literature from the University of Ottawa and a diploma in Classical Homeopathy from the School of Homeopathy in Devon, England. She was ordained by the All Faiths Seminary International in New York City in 2004. She offers naming and funeral services for animals, grief counselling for guardian and includes the treatment of animals in her homeopathic practices in Quebec and Ontario.

PRECIOUS PETS • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014 • www.preciouspets.ca

EDITORIAL

CALL FOR ACTION Monsieur Paradis: The gloves are off by

Bram D. Eisenthal, Editor, Precious Pets

When first I e-mailed Quebec’s new Minister of Agriculture, also in charge of animal welfare, Pierre Paradis, I was quite optimistic. When his office did not respond initially, I e-mailed my district’s (D’Arcy McGee) MNA, David Birnbaum, and not long after that I heard from Mr. Paradis’ office, from an assistant. She promised me (in English, to my great appreciation, because that is something the PQ certainly would never have done) that my request for a meeting with the Minister was quite pressing. Tina and I wanted to meet with the man, to ask him some pointed questions about animal rights in Quebec... a province with one of THE worst records in the entire country. Weeks went by and I emailed this young lady again. Shortly thereafter, I heard from one of Mr. Paradis’ direct assistants and was basically given the run around. When I wrote again and asked for a meeting before the end of November, so that I could publish the interview in Precious Pets this year, she wrote me (rudely, in French only,

as she had done the first time) to tell me that Mr. Paradis was extremely busy and that there was no way he could meet by the end of this month. Now, my eyes were opened since Gerdie Gouron’s excellent editorial in our September 2014 issue telling us that there are four gassing pounds in Quebec, chambers of horror where wayward pets are tossed into a room together (and, I have since learned, not fed for three days prior, to reduce their excrement... in other words, starved so they would not mess the floor) and killed using carbon monoxide gas, from what I understand, one of the most painful ways to die. I am very sorry to point out that the Nazis were more benevolent using Zyklon-B gas on the millions of Jews and other people that they gassed to death, although ruthless efficiency and speed was their reason, not at all kindness. I wanted to press Mr. Paradis to close down Quebec’s gassing pounds, the largest number in the country after Ontario (one) and Alberta (two). But

since he has not even had the decency to contact me or even to have his inner circle address me in my “langue maternel,” I have decided to not let Mr. Paradis off easy. Let this editorial serve notice that Precious Pets will immediately start planning protest action against the Government of Quebec, action that will cease only after the closure of each and every gassing pound here. I have already been contacted by Dawson College student Michael Palermo, who read about the pounds in Precious Pets and wrote a letter to his MNA in Laval, veteran politician Francine Charbonneau, demanding that she get involved in his cause. Of course, three weeks later, Palermo has not heard one word from her. So he wants to become involved in planning our fu-

ture protests. Funny... If you want to get young people involved in politics, Madame Charbonneau, ignoring them is not the way to accomplish this. Anyone wishing to play a role in our movement to shut down the gassing pounds – Our official slogan is Monsieur Paradis – Tear down these pounds! – should contact me at 514975-7745. Or e-mail me at info@preciouspetscanada.com. We will meet to plan our protests and then we will take to the streets. This is hardly the first time a government has made a promise it has not kept: The Government of Quebec promised previously to shutter the pounds and nothing was done. Want to continue effectively playing the role of animal killer, Pierre Paradis? Not on our watch!

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PRECIOUS PETS • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014 • www.preciouspets.ca

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They Call Me Dr. W

Consider adopting a senior pet (by Dr. Wybranowski, B.SC. DVM CCRT)

Everybody wants to adopt a cute puppy or a kitten, but few people consider adopting an older pet. Very young animals (between 8-16 weeks) accept everything new with no fear. This is when their brain naturally learns what is safe and what can be dangerous. Introducing anything new after this “socialization period’ is much harder. Even an old dog can learn new tricks, but it just takes more time. Unfortunately, many of the newly-adopted pets that I see are often past this age. They are past their prime for learning, so it will often be a struggle and require more time and patience. Do you have the time and patience? Consider now the adoption of an older pet. People often assume that there must be something wrong with the pet if it was put up for adoption, but most often this is not the case. Most pets end up in shelters because they get lost or are abandoned. If you adopt an older pet you have just saved yourself a lot of sleepless nightsand hours of toi-

let training. Your pet already has a set of skills, which he can use from Day One. If his behaviour is not completely to your liking, you can modify it by retraining him almost as easily as any young animal past his socialization period. In April of 2011, Willow, the dog in the picture, was abandoned by someone at the hospital. They just walked in and walked out, leaving her behind. We never saw or heard from them again. It did not take long for us to adopt her. She was gentle and well behaved. She never chewed a slipper or peed in the house. Within a few days we bonded to each other. She was so grateful to us for taking her in, that she loved us to no end. Our Team

looked forward to Willow coming to work with us every day. Last November Willow died and even though we knew each other only for two and a half years, she has left a permanent impression in our hearts and a void that no other dog can fill. Through my sadness, I think back to all the great times we had together and I am happy to have known her. If you want to adopt a pet, don’t give up on the older ones. Senior pets deserve a second chance. You may be much better off with a senior pet.

ED. NOTE: Our loyal advertiser and friend, Averil Robinson, not only operates Pet Friends in Vaudreuil, she rescues and cares for older Golden Retrievers. We ran a cover story on her love for these animals in our September 2014 issue... should you wish to read it, it is archived on our website, www. preciouspets.ca. Averil’s life has been enhanced by these Golden Oldies and she is happy to tell anyone who will listen why. Thanks, Dr. W, for the kind suggestion. We are sorry we never met Willow.

Dr. Wybranowski and Willow

PRECIOUS PETS • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014 • www.preciouspets.ca

Our Halloween 2014 pest prize winners by

Bram D. Eisenthal, Editor, Precious Pets

So, we chose three prize winners from amongst contributors to our Halloween contest, where cute and cuddly pets were dressed up in time for the Witching Hour. Our winners:

1/ Cockatoo Cody, submitted by Sam Berkovitch - Winner of a $50 gift card from Animalerie Little Bear 2/ Rabbit Bun-Bun, submitted by Chantal Garganeau – Winner of a $25 gift card from Animalerie Little Bear 3/ Cat Mingus, submitted by Gail Goldstein – Winner of an artistic “kitty

clock” crafted by Samantha Havill of West Island Cats. Congrats to our victorious contestants and thank you to our gen-

erous prize suppliers! Kindly e-mail Bram at info@preciouspetscananada.com for details on how to claim your prizes.

Puzzles

THIS WEEKS SOLUTION

PRECIOUS PETS • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2014 • www.preciouspets.ca