Paradise Pets Magazine Key West Vol. 1 Issue 2 by Publish in Paradise

Pest-Free Pets Pet Aromatherapy

Preventative Health Care for Your Pet

Earth-Friendly Ways to Welcome Babies, Pets

FKSPCA Pets Awaiting Adoption Volume 1 Issue 2 | April-May-June 2015

$6.95

Paradise Pets Magazine is published by Publish In Paradise for the purpose of uniting and supporting our communities. 35% of all advertising revenue is donated back into our communities, with 10% of that supporting our furry and feathered friends at our local Florida Keys SPCA. For advertising inquiries, please visit us online or email paradisepets@my.com ÂŠ 2015 Publish in Paradise www.PublishinParadise.com

Paradise Pets Magazine Key West, FL 33045 ParadisePetsMag.com Publisher/Editor: Angela J. Richards editor@paradisepetsmag.com Contributors: Dr. Gurpartap Dabhia Karen Thomas, RN

From the Editor With this issue I am writing from beautiful Montana! I arrived just in time to see the snow melt away into spring. It has been lovely here to see spring in bloom with wild bunnies bouncing on the land, hearing the birds singing, and seeing the newly born calves romp about close to their mothersâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;-calving season is a beautiful time here in Montana. On top of that, I received a wonderful tour of the local humane society here in Helena and met some wonderful pet pooches who are waiting for parents. I hope they get adopted soon. Speaking of pet parents, if you are thinking of becoming a parent to one of our playful pets at the Florida Keys SPCA, we have a preview of some of them in this issue. Enjoy!

On the cover: Pest-free Pets, page 6. Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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Angela PARADISE PETS MAGAZINE DISCLAIMER: This information is for educational and interest purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your own veterinarian. Veterinarians cannot answer specific questions about your pet's medical issues or make medical recommendations for your pet without first establishing a veterinarianclient-patient relationship. Your pet's medical protocol should be given by your local holistic veterinarian.

Features 6

Pest-free Pets (cover)

10 Earth-Friendly Ways to Welcome Babies, Pets

Departments Pet Parents 4

Reader Submitted Pics

12 How Well Do You Know Your Cat? 14 FKSPCA Pets Awaiting Parents 19 Playtime Pointers for Feline Fun

Pet Health 8

Preventative Health Care for Your Pet

Pet Aromatherapy

15 Resource Guide

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“Petting, scratching, and cuddling a dog could be as soothing to the mind and heart as deep meditation and almost as good for the soul as prayer.” –Dean Koontz

Skylar

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Phoenix

Photo submitted by Joel Ably & Megan Sheets

Photo submitted by Julie Carson

Florida s!!!

e Puppi

Florida

Bella

Libby

Alaska

Florida Photo submitted by Karen Thomas

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Photo submitted by Karen Thomas

Submit Your Pet Pics!

“You think those dogs will not be in heaven! I tell you they will be there long before any of us.” –Robert Louis Stevenson

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“ Montana

Rossco

Sophie

Montana

Alaska Montana

Montana

Photo submitted by Joel Ably & Megan Sheets

Chicken photos submitted by Lori Ably

Freckles

ising temperatures are a double-edged sword for pet lovers. Warmer days create the perfect setting for a run through the park or a game of fetch. But these warm days also provide an ideal environment for pests that can have a serious impact on your pet's health.

Tiny but Mighty Both fleas and ticks are small but dangerous. Fleas are ravenous and can consume 15 times their own body weight in your pet's blood. A serious infestation can cause your pet to become anemic. It is common for pets to have sensitivity to flea saliva and just one bite can cause a severe allergic reaction, leading to painful and intense itching. Fleas also transmit a

variety of diseases such as bartonella and typhus, as well as tapeworms. Female ticks can consume more than 100 times their body weight in your dog's blood, which can lead to anemia. Their bites may trigger allergic reactions, but even more dangerous are the diseases they can transmit, such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which can also be transmitted to humans.

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Treat and Prevent Pests The best way to protect your pet and your family is to manage exposure to pests and take preventive measures to keep them at bay. New PetArmor Plus for dogs or cats contains fipronil, the No. 1 veterinarianrecommended active ingredient,* and (s)methoprene - the same active ingredients found in FRONTLINE Plus, but costs up to 40 percent less than vet prices.** Each monthly dose kills fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, ticks and chewing lice. And because it is fast acting, long lasting and kills eggs and larvae, it helps to stop the re-infestation cycle.

Protecting against Infestations When you see fleas or ticks on your pet, there is a good chance that they are in your home as well. Simply treating your pet won't rid the problem entirely, because you risk re-infestation until pests are fully eradicated. Household sprays, carpet powders and foggers kill fleas nesting in the home. Thoroughly vacuum and wash any carpeting, furniture or linens, including beds and pillows that your pet may have come into contact with. Although you won't be able to control the outdoor environment as easily as the home, you should also treat your yard so that pests aren't reintroduced every time

your dog or cat ventures outside. Prevent fleas and ticks from jumping onto pets when outside by spraying the yard and treating around the home's foundation to kill any potential flea populations. In addition to using a pet-safe insect repellant, cut down tall brush and grasses near the house or pet runs to reduce a pet's exposure to fleas and ticks. Learn more about the health risks associated with fleas and ticks, and find additional prevention tips, at www.petarmor.com.

How to Check for Fleas and Ticks Adult ticks are often visible to the naked eye, so you may be able to spot them on short-haired pets. But with longer haired pets, it's best to do a thorough inspection with a fine-toothed comb. Signs your pet may have fleas can include flea dirt (small dark flakes), excessive itching or scratching, redness and inflammation, hot spots and pale gums. You may also see adult fleas on your pet's coat and skin. Follow this advice from the experts at PetArmor to find and eliminate fleas and ticks on your pet:

First, use a fine-toothed metal flea comb. Run the comb along your pet's back or underbelly, making sure the comb comes in contact with the skin.

Preventative Health Care Tips for Your Pets Photo courtesy Julie Carson

Dr. Gurpartap Dabhia

Preventative health care is an ideal way to safeguard your pets from diseases. Regular veterinary visits play a vital role in maintaining the pristine health condition of your furry friends. Thanks to the dynamic technology and vet hospitals that come together to immunize your pets against numerous fatal diseases. They provide you with the relevant vaccinations and preventative health care tips to ensure your pet's happy and healthy lifestyle.

Pet Health Care Tips Annual vet visits: This is the perfect way to thwart health issues in your pets. Pets grow at a faster rate than humans and their health condition changes substantially over the time. So, it is vital to maintain a regular wellness exam with your veterinarian to detect disease before symptoms occur. Vaccination: Vaccination protects your pet from diseases like rabies, kennel cough, distemper and also preserve against canine flu and Lyme disease. So talk to the veterinarian about the vaccines. They will suggest you the best suited vaccines for

your pets according to their age, health and exposure. Routine grooming is crucial: Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning and coat brushing help you to keep pets healthy. Ask your veterinarian about how to safely clean your pet. Keep your pet's nails short and teeth clean by daily brushing to avoid infections. Routine grooming is also the another great way to build a strong bond with your pet. Protect from parasites: Fleas, heartworms, and intestinal parasites can have major health consequences for pets. These parasites can lead to itchy skin, infection, hair loss etc. that are uncomfortable for your pet. But, you can easily prevent these infections and diseases by regular use of veterinary approved products.

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Good nutrition and regular exercise: Give your pets a high quality diet that meets their specific needs, breed, age and activity level. Make sure not to skip your pet's exercise because regular exercise helps to keep them fit and active. So, ask your veterinarian to create a healthy diet and exercise plan for your pet. Dental care is mandatory: It is important to take care of your pet's teeth because the infection starts from the mouth and it can spread to the other parts of the body as well. Plaque and tartar not only lead to bad

breath but your pet can also loose teeth that eventually fall out. It is essential to keep your pet's teeth clean to avoid periodontal problems. Follow the simple tips to provide your pets a healthy and happy life.

Dr. Gurpartap Dabhia is a veterinarian at Bristol Veterinary Hospital. We, at "Bristol Veterinary Hospital, provide you the preventative health care tips to protect your pets from diseases and infections. Our fully-equipped animal hospital and experienced veterinary staff will serve you the required vaccinations and treatments to maintain your pet's healthy lifestyle. We Provide High Quality Veterinary Services. Contact us Anytime to Get An Appointment or Get a ‘Free Quote’ on Our Myriad of services. http://www.bristolveterinaryhospital.com

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Proper training is vital: Most pets do not receive an adequate training because of the busy lifestyle of their owners. But, it is essential to invest considerable amount of time to train your pets for their better health and long life. Proper training leads to a lifetime benefit for you and your pet.

“What greater gift than the love of a cat.” --Charles Dickens

ParadisePetsMag.com Visit Beautiful Ketchikan–

Travel

Alaska

Alaska’s First City! Photo courtesy of Pet Parent Joel Ably

Earth-Friendly Waysto Welcome Babies, Pets

ringing a new member of the family home - be it a baby or pet - is sure to result in many happy smiles, giggles and messes. Whether it's your child eating spaghetti for the first time or your puppy trailing in mud after a rainy day, joyful moments with your little loved ones create memories and clean-ups. Babies and pets have other things in common: their precious paws touch just about everything, and whatever they can reach might end up in their mouths. So around these curious cuties it's a good idea to clean with naturally derived cleaners.

Tackling the to-dos that come along with these new additions is also a good time to adopt other green habits that will help preserve pretty places for them to explore and enjoy as they grow. The good news is that there are easy and effective sustainability solutions that will allow you to focus on enjoying - and cleaning up after - your family without extra effort. â&#x2014;? Save money: Adding another person or pet to the household also adds a lot of costs. Be friendly to your wallet and the earth by purchasing previously loved, gently used toys and clothes.

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● Save time: With all the added duties that come from babies and pets there's very little time to make homemade cleaners. As an alternative, head to your local Target for a naturally derived cleaner like Green Works All-Purpose Cleaner, which shockingly powers through grease, grime and dirt from the cooktop to the countertop.

To find more information on green cleaners and tips visit www.GreenWorksCleaners.com, and to find a full selection of products, visit your local Target store.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images Source: Green Works | Family Features

● Filter for good: Water is important for babies and pets alike. Whether you're using it to make formula as an alternative to breast feeding or simply providing your pet with a drink, using a water filter is an easy way to get clean, clear and great-tasting water from any tap. ● Make it convenient: Clean hands are always important, but especially when dealing with new babies and pets. Keep eco-friendly hand soap near the kitchen sink and in bathrooms for family and guests to wash their hands before holding the baby or after playing with pets. Green Works Hand Soap, found at Target, is free of parabens and phthalates and gently cleans while stimulating the senses with an invigorating scent. ● Don't double up: Newborn skin is very sensitive. For this reason, new parents tend to buy a separate laundry detergent to wash their baby's clothes. Instead of buying two detergents, switch to an effective, naturally derived detergent, stain remover and bleach for the entire family.

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s a cat owner, you do your best to take care of your pet. But there may be some things you don't know about cats that could affect its health and happiness. For example, a survey conducted by Wakefield Research on behalf of Purina ONE found that only 3 percent of respondents thought that playfulness is a sign of a healthy cat. Here are eight other cat facts that can help you keep your kitty thriving. ● Cats require more protein than dogs. Dietary protein is digested and broken down into individual amino acids. While dogs require 10 essential amino

How Well Do You Know Your Cat? acids, cats require the same 10 plus one more: taurine. ● Cats need physical activity to maintain their muscle tone, alleviate stress and burn off excess energy. Yet 76 percent of cat owners say their cats spend less than half of their time being active. Consider taking your cat out for a walk on a leash - it keeps them active, gives them a chance to explore and is a great sensory experience. ● Nearly half of cat owners (45 percent) think their cats may be overweight. Remember, an ideal body condition is important for your cat's overall health. To determine this, you want to be able to feel its ribs with gentle pressure. If

you can't, it might be overeating. If you can see its ribs, it might be too skinny. Also, with the cat in a standing position, you want to see a waist behind its ribs when looking down at the back, and a minimal amount of abdominal fat when viewing from the side. ● Cats enjoy a variety of tastes and textures, so wet and dry foods work well together. Dry kibble helps keep teeth clean. Wet food has a protein and moisture content that's close to a wild cat's natural diet. ● Most cat owners (81 percent) know bright eyes are a key indicator of cat health. Another indicator? A shiny coat. And what you feed your cat can make a difference. Within three weeks of switching your cat to a food optimal in omega-6 fatty acids and essential vitamins and minerals, such as Purina ONE, you may notice brighter eyes and a shinier coat.

to read a cat's body language and non-verbal cues. When a cat's tail is pointing upward, with tip slightly bent or pointing forward, they are in the friendly mood. But, if the tail is in a similar position but with raised hair, a cat could be angry.

To see the differences a healthy diet can make, try switching your cat's food for just 28 days. Check out the Purina ONE 28 Day Challenge at www.purinaone.com/onesmartchange and receive a coupon to help you get started.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images Purina ONE | Family Features

● Cats like to have a clear view of their surroundings in order to detect the approach of rivals or predators, so keep your cat's food dish out in the open or in a high spot to maximize sight lines. ● Cats can experience "whisker stress," an annoying sensation that's caused when their whiskers rub up against the sides of the bowl. To prevent this, try feeding your cat from a flat dish, large enough to hold a day's worth of food. ● Most cat owners (98 percent) consider their cats happy, but it may be difficult

Pets Awaiting Adoption… If anyone is interested in adopting from the FKSPCA, they ask that you come to the shelter to meet and greet their animals in person so they can get to know you and see if it’s good chemistry between the animal and the potential owner.

fkspca.org

Come and visit your potential new pet at the Florida Keys SPCA at 5230 College Road in Key West, Florida. Give them a call at (305) 294-4857 or visit them online for more information.

Libby is a 2-year-old female American bulldog mix. She has lived with other dogs before and would be a good friend to most other pups.

Nala is a 2-year-old female Pit Bull Mix. She has the goofiest smile that will make anyone laugh. She is very friendly with people and would make a great addition to any family.

Shaka is a 4-year-old female Rottweiler. She has a very sweet side where she just wants to be cuddled and loved while she sits right by your side.

Agnus is a 2-year-old female Domestic Shorthair. She is an independent cat who is always up for snack time and treats and would love more than anything to get them from a new owner.

Jeannette MacDonald is a 4year-old female Domestic Shorthair. She is a curious cat who loves toy time and chasing feathers around the adoption room. She is quick to show new cats the ropes.

Cosmo is a 2-year-old male Domestic Shorthair. He loves to lounge around in high places so he gets a complete view of the room. He likes to say hello to visitors and isn’t shy.

Advertise in our Fall Issue! ● Great Rates!

Resource Guide Key West, FL

● Free Ad Design! ● Support Our Community! ● Local & National Exposure! Contact Us Today! paradisepets@my.com

Florida Keys SPCA Adoption services, animal control, and more. 5230 College Road, Key West, FL (305) 294-4857 | www.fkspca.org

Xena Fund Financial help with veterinary care 1623 Laird Street, Key West, FL (305) 432-0494 | xenafund.com

Paradise Day Spa Pamper Your Pet, Then Pamper Yourself 1012 Truman Ave., Key West, FL 305-TRY-RELAX | Keywestparadisedayspa.com

Marathon, FL Pawsitive Touch Giving your animal companions the energy to heal P.O. Box 500591, Marathon, FL 305.481.0868 | pawsitivetouch.org

Do you have a pet business? A pet friendly motel, restaurant or other establishment? Get listed in our resource guide and we will connect you to pet parents in the Keys and beyond. ParadisePetsMag.com Paradise Pets Magazine Vol. 1 Issue 2 © 2015 Publish In Paradise | ParadisePetsMag.com | 15

pet aromatherapy By Karen Thomas

Aromatherapy and essential oils have been used for thousands of years for healing and anointing. Records dating back to 4500 BC describe the use of balsamic substances with aromatic properties for personal, medicinal and spiritual use. The rediscovery of essential oils into modern medicine began during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Rene-Maurice Gattefosse PhD, a French cosmetic chemist known as the father of aromatherapy, began studying oils in 1907. Gattefosse discovered lavender oilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to assist in the healing of burns after immersing his own burned hand into a vat of lavender oil following a laboratory explosion in 1910. Essential oils are the volatile liquids and aromatic compounds distilled from flowers, trees, roots, bushes, shrubs and seeds. An essential oil contains the true essence of the plant it was derived from and is highly concentrated. These oils have regenerating, oxygenating and immune supporting properties which can assist our animals in the healing process. Essential oils provide energetic balance and help in healing through the sense of smell. As the olfactory system is stimulated, physiologic

functions are supported which allows the body to self-heal. They also have antiseptic, antimicrobial and detoxifying properties and can help with emotional issues such as anxiety and stress. In addition to direct inhalation another excellent way to get these benefits is by diffusing the oils in a cold air diffuser. Essential oils may also be used topically or ingested. As a rule when working with animals, LESS is MORE, as sense of smell is highly developed in many animals due to their instinctual nature. For example a human has 5-6 million olfactory receptors while the dog as 220 million. Domestic and wild animals will naturally seek out plants that bring their bodies into a state of balance. Rubbing against a pine tree picking up the oils from the bark will help soothe sore muscles and joints. Burying their nose deep into an herb or flower, inhaling the aroma of the entire plant can help the animal keep calm. Or eating a plant and allowing the properties of the plant to be absorbed will assist with overcoming digestive upset.

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Whether working with humans or animals be sure that the essential oils used are therapeutic grade. Therapeutic grade oils are pure. They are grown, harvested and packaged with minimal harm to the plant. These plants are wild crafted, meaning the soil has never been exposed to chemicals and wind patterns are studied to see that nothing harmful can blow onto the soil. The plants are distilled with a low heat, low steam and low pressure process to maintain the integrity and therapeutic benefits of the plant. Synthetic oils are mostly made from petrochemicals, try to duplicate the smell of a certain plant and are created for a specific purpose, such as perfume. Fragrance grade oils used in perfumes do not assist with healing and can actually cause more harm than good because of their ingredients. Inexpensive oils are most likely not therapeutic quality. Caution should be exercised with cats when using essential oils with a high phenol content. Cats do not have some of the liver enzymes needed to help metabolize the phenol constituents of certain oils.

animal practitioner who is experienced with the use of essential oils.

References: Komitor, C. CMT, HTCP/I, CHBMT, HTACP, ESMT (2013). Healing touch for animals level 3 workbook (6th ed.). Highlands Ranch, CO: Komitor Healing Method, Inc. Shelton, M. DVM (2012). The animal desk reference - Essential oils for animals. CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform. DBA On-Demand Publishing, LLC. Young, G.D. et al (2011). Essential oils desk reference - Special fifth edition. Orem, UT: Life Science Publishing.

Karen Thomas, R.N., is a Healing Touch for Animals (HTA) Practitioner in the Florida Keys. Healing Touch for Animals is a holistic approach influencing the health and well-being of animals through energy and intention. HTA techniques restore harmony and balance to the energy system while providing physical, emotional, mental and instinctual stability, thus supporting the body to self-heal. This work can be done in person or distantly. Karen can be contacted through her website www.pawsitivetouch.org

Melaleuca oil (Tea Tree) should never be used on birds. Melaleuca can cause an adverse reaction in birds which may result in death. In maintaining the health and well-being of our animal companions just remember the LESS is MORE rule. When in doubt consult your veterinarian or a holistic

d Phoenix-8. , Libby-7, an -2 ar yl Sk ith as w Karen Thom

Paradise Pets Magazine Vol. 1 Issue 2 ÂŠ 2015 Publish In Paradise | ParadisePetsMag.com | 17

“Pest-free Pets” cont. from page 7

If you pull out any fleas or ticks, immediately drown them in a nearby bowl of soapy water.

● How quickly does it begin working and how long will it last?

● Is it safe for breeding, pregnant and lactating animals?

Have your pet stand on a white sheet or towel. Then brush or rub your pet's coat. Small black specks on the white sheet or towel are more than likely fleas or flea dirt. Flea dirt can also look like sand.

Apply a monthly topical preventive treatment such as PetArmor Plus to keep pests from coming back.

Also be sure to treat your home and yard to prevent a recurrence.

● Is it waterproof?

*GFK 2014 Vet Recommended Flea and Tick Products September 2014. **PetArmor® Plus is not manufactured or distributed by Merial. FRONTLINE® is a registered trademark of Merial. Pricing comparison based on average veterinarian retail price survey of FRONTLINE® Plus (December 2014) and MSRP of PetArmor® Plus (January 2015). Data on file. Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Choosing a Preventive Treatment No two pets are the same, so it's a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before you begin a flea and tick preventive program. Some questions to keep in mind as you're determining the best treatment for your pet include: ● Is a topical or oral treatment most appropriate for my pet? ● How costly is the treatment? ● Can I get the treatment from a retailer over the counter, or is it available only through the veterinary office? ● Does it kill eggs and larvae to prevent the re-infestation cycle?

Source: PetArmor | Family Features

Got Fleas? “Did“You Know?

Some of the more common essential oils that act as flea and insect repellents are: lavender, citronella, cedar ,peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemongrass.

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Source: http://thewholedog.org/EOFleas.html

Playtime Pointers for Feline Fun Playtime between cats and their owners provides the opportunity to bond in a fun and engaging way. Whether your cat is captivated by fun new toys or climbing and exploring the heights and corners of your home, spending quality time with your pet allows for the making of new memories. Encouraging active playtime will keep your cat healthy and fit, all in the name of a good time! Feline Playtime Tips It's important to keep your cat active by engaging them in playful activity a few times a day. Help your cat conquer playtime and stay active with these simple tips and toys from the folks at TEMPTATIONS Brand. It's as easy as play, pounce and purr! ● Rotating Toys: Don't let your cat get bored with the same old playthings. Swap a rotation of toys in and out of the mix to keep your cat alert and entertained. ● Cat vs. Mouse: Bring the age-old rivalry of cat vs. mouse to life with the new Temptations Snacky Mouse Toy - which makes playtime irresistible with an interactive bottom-weighted, mouseshaped wobble toy designed to dispense delicious Temptations treats as cats bat, bobble and play with it. ● Fun at New Heights: Cats love climbing, pouncing and exploring. Place enticing

cat toys on top of boxes, scratching posts and other feline-friendly surfaces to encourage curiosity during playtime. ● Hide and Snack: Hide your Temptations Snacky Mouse Toy amongst other toys and watch your cat purr with pleasure when it discovers the scrumptious smell of the treats within. ● Meowing Mirror: Mount mirrors in play areas, which will not only amuse your cat, but also help him socialize! For information on the new Temptations Snacky Mouse Toy, as well as more ways to foster fun playtime with your pet, visit TemptationsTreats.com or Facebook.com/Temptations. Photo courtesy of Getty Images Source: Temptations Brands | Family Features