APR •11
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MEET P.B. Wilson &
‘The Rescue Crew’
Pg. 16
Houston Pet EXPO Pg. 6 Puppy Training 101 Pg. 10
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The best part of what we do at Natural Pawz is that we make a difference in the lives of our "four legged" customers. Why is Natural Pawz different than other pet stores? Unlike most pet stores, we serve as a resource for the concerned and caring pet parent. Our three rescue dogs, Callie, Lucky, and Joey and rescue cat Harold are our inspiration and they have taught us a lot about how food and product choices can impact the health of a pet. The best reward our customers receive is the improvement in their pet's health, we offer customer friendly programs as well. We believe feeding your pet human-grade, natural food is important. Foods and Treats carried by Natural Pawz are well research and contain only human grade ingredients and is manufactured in the USA or Canada.
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Natural Pawz offers natural food, treats and services for your Pet. Voted #1 Best Pet Supplies by Click2Houston 2 years in a row. Whether you have a new puppy or kitten or a senior pet we can help you find the best solution.
SIX LOCATIONS IN Houston • The Woodlands • Sugar Land 281.313.7299 • www.naturalpawz.com
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April 2011 | 3
contents
06
19 16 FEATURES 6
2011 HOUSTON PET EXPO
10
Puppy 101- FETCH!
12 • Pawz-itively Natural
16 • Meet P.B. Wilson & The Rescue Crew
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19 • WANTED: Guardian Angels 20 • Tugg Tales
EDITOR Shannan Parker Tel: 281.781.4727 Email: info@texascatsanddogs.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jeff Parker Tel: 281.781.4727
Contributing Writers Dr. Susan Randlett Tricia Fagan CPDT-KA Houston Pet Expo Nadine Joli-Coeur Blake Ovard Dougie Deogi, Rescue Reporter Corrie Traxler
Cover & Centerfold Photo Jack & Jane Photography www.JackAndJanePhotography.com
DESIGNER
Sarah Standley Tel: 513.919.5628 sarahastandley@yahoo.com www.sarahstandleydesigns.com
Next Issue: MAY 2011 Advertiser’s Deadline APR. 15th 2011
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April 2011 | 5
2011 HOUSTON PET EXPO Pet lovers in the Houston area should get their four-legged friends ready for the 2011 Houston Pet Expo, Saturday, April 16th, at the Reliant Center. This free indoor event attracts thousands of pet lovers looking to enjoy a day out with their furry, feathered or reptilian pals! From 10 AM to 6 PM, the Expo will be packed with more then 150 local and nationally-recognized veterinarians, groomers, trainers, retailers and organizations primarily geared towards pet lovers. Whether you’d like to learn, shop, play or adopt, this an event you won’t want to miss! Because the Pet Expo is also designed to promote responsible pet ownership, the highlight of the day will be a mega-adoption event. Amanda Maas, show production manager for the Houston Pet Expo explains, “The MegaAdoption event is a very popular part of our Expos. If you’re looking to add a new member to your family, more than 200 pets will be available for adoption, along with information from dozens of local rescue groups and shelters. It’s wonderful to see a pet connect with their new forever home.”
If it’s entertainment or live demonstrations that you’re interested in, you’ll have ample opportunity to watch – and take part in – the day’s events. You can sign your pet friend up to participate in several competitions, such as the everpopular costume contest, talent contest or fashion show. Your pet can also try out the agility course after local pets demonstrate why these action sports are so popular. Information about obedience training, pet behavior, activism and more will be presented all day on the entertainment stage. Maas continues, “A lot of people don’t realize all of the pet-friendly resources available to them in their communities and our goal is to help get that information out there. It’s a fun-filled day for pet owners - or those who’d one day like to be!” Of course, pets are welcome to attend the event, provided that they are on a fixed lead and have proof of age-appropriate current vaccinations. Not up to date on vaccinations? Don’t worry! There will be discounted vaccinations and low-cost microchipping available. You can even take advantage of free nail trims!
The Houston Pet Expo is organized by Amazing Pet Expos, which currently produces 10 pet expos around the country; all of them free to the general public. What: The 2011 Houston Pet Expo Where: Indoors at the Reliant Center When: Saturday, April 16, 10AM to 6PM Event Admission: Free www.HoustonPetExpo.com Pets are welcome!
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April 2011 | 7
TROUBLE WITH TUCKER “heartworms” by Dr. Susan Randlett
‘“Heartworms (or wormy heart?)’ I’ve heard that word before, mostly from my Mom. She cautions that it’s a bad disease that can kill a dog. The only worms I’m familiar with live in the dirt. I find them when I’m digging in the flowerbeds. They’re pretty big, just under a foot long, thin and slimy. Are these the worms that cause heartworms? When I’m digging if I accidently ate one would I get sick? Would they travel from my stomach into my heart? Then would they suck my blood and feed on my heart muscle. I am creeped out by the thought of ball of worms making babies and crawling in and out of my heart. Surely there’d be no chance of survival. That’d be the end of me. I’m horrified.” “Wait a minute Tucker”. Stop making any more assumptions and creating further misconceptions about the cause, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of heartworm disease. Yes, there is the potential for great suffering and eventual death from infection. However, there are many, easily administered and inexpensive, preventative products on the market. Furthermore, in the event of infection a very good product is available for treatment. So let’s begin by reviewing the way a dog is exposed to heartworms. So Tucker do not fret about the earthworms that you find. Don’t feel bad because you don’t have a thorough understanding about the disease. There are a number of commonly held misconceptions. Let’s begin by reviewing some of the scientific facts. Remember that knowledge of facts will free you from all those fears. “First you need to stop digging in my flowerbeds but not because you fear exposure to heartworms.” Canine heartworm disease (also called dirofilariasis) is caused primarily by the adult stage of the worm, known as Dirofilaria immitis. These live in both the right side of the heart and adjacent large blood vessels. Here the thread-like worms mature up to 12 inches. Several hundred can occupy the heart at a time, however the number is usually less. As worms accumulate they block blood flow and stimulate an inflammatory reaction that damages the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys. In the early stage of infection or in cases with a light worm burden the outward symptoms may not be exhibited. However as the numbers of worms increase 8 | www.TxDogsAndCats.com
the dog begins to suffer. The symptoms include cough, difficulty breathing, lethargy, weight loss and fainting. Left untreated, the dog eventually suffers from congestive heart failure leading to death. “Now Tucker, I know that in your limited experience heartworms resemble earthworms and, therefore, you think that ingestion of earthworms might lead to infection and disease.” However, exposure to the blood-sucking mosquitoes is the cause. The life cycle begins with adult male and female worms mating in the heart producing immature forms known as microfilaria. These travel throughout the dog’s circulatory system. When a mosquito bites an infected host, microfilaria are sucked up into the mosquito. Here they undergo a two week incubation period and become infective larvae. When this mosquito bites a second dog, the larvae are injected into the dog’s tissues so he/she becomes infected. The larvae take a threemonth migration until they reach dog’s heart. It takes three months from initial entry until maturation into adults. Here they breed producing babies called microfilaria that live in the blood stream. The mosquito is the only natural agent of transmission for the canine heartworm. As you might expect, infection is more prevalent in regions where mosquitoes are numerous. However, infected dogs have been found in all 50 states. “Tucker, you are probably wondering how to determine if a dog is infected.” Fortunately, inexpensive diagnostic tests are available. The most popular test detects antigen or protein secreted by adult female heartworms. This protein can be detected in dogs five to six months after being bitten. The screening test is commonly known as the “occult heartworm test”. A second method called the “modified Knott test” looks for baby heartworms or microfilaria that circulate in the blood. Basically, a small of blood is microscopically examined for microfilaria (the baby heartworms). All dogs should be tested annually. This will assure that a positive dog can begin treatment immediately to minimize further life-threatening damage. Some complicted situations require alternative testing to support the diagnosis or to
stage the severity of a patient’s condition. In these instances X-rays, echocardiography, chemistry profiles and urinalysis are performed. “Tucker, you’re a very lucky dog because there’s a number of great products to protect you and your friends from disease.” It is best to start puppies on these products no later than eight weeks of age. In our area dogs should remain on preventatives all year. Options for effective prevention include drugs administered in an oral or topical form at a monthly interval. All mature dogs should be tested prior to starting a prophylactic program. The sale of preventive medication requires authorization by a veterinarian that has an established relationship with the client and patient. All pets should be tested annually to ensure that prevention is achieved. “Tucker, now you are probably wondering what happens to those dogs that are unlucky and get infected.” Well, medications are available to kill the adults in the heart and microfilaria that circulate in the blood. The adulticide drug, melarsomine (better known as Immiticide) has demonstrated to be safe and when used according to manufacturer’s recommendations will kill 98% of the adults. This drug is administered intramuscularly so one side effect is soreness at the injection site. The microfilaria or baby heartworms are eliminated by a class of drugs known as Macrocyclic lactones (known as ivermectin, selamectin, milbemycin oxime or moxidectin). Once in awhile pets are not good candidates for treatment because of financial or medical reasons. In these situations other options are available. “Tucker, now you understand the life cycle of the heartworm, exposure risks, prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Hopefully, I have dispelled some of the misconceptions and educated you so that you no longer fear earthworms. However, if you continue to dig in my flowerbeds and uncover my plants you may have a good reason to fear me!”
April 2011 | 9
Puppy 101: TRUST by Tricia Fagan CPDT-KA
moved away. I was completely dependant on the bear’s cooperation.
Several years ago, I attended the annual conference of the Animal Behavior Management Alliance. This group is for people who care for and train animals. Most of the members work with wild animals, often very dangerous animals. In training this type of animal, you can either train the animal to cooperate, or anesthetize them for any procedure. There is no middle ground. No one offers to hold the tiger while its nails are trimmed. (Anyone? Anyone?) Some years ago, I trained some Grizzly bears (North American Brown bears, to be exact) to allow their nails to be trimmed. Yes, the bears remained inside the cage, and I remained outside the cage at all times. The bears where trained to sit next to the fence, and place their paws on the bars of the cage. When training began, I would reach for the bear’s nail, and the bear would move his paw away. I could, however, reach a very short distance toward the bear’s claw, and the bear would remain still. The bear would be rewarded for this. Eventually, I could move my hand all the way to the bear’s nail, and even touch it. Training progressed as the bear allowed. If at any time the bear was not comfortable with the training, he simply
I often think this is a great advantage when training an animal. Image how your actions might be different if you could not force your dog to do anything. There would not be any struggle to hold the dog down for nail trims or medical care. The dog would simply allow you to trim his nails, or not. No middle ground. I have trained dogs who previously needed several people to hold them while having their nails trimmed. After training, the dogs would lie on the couch, eating small pieces of chicken, while one person very gently held a paw and trimmed the nail. I recently worked with a dog who would run away if he thought you were trying to get him in the car. With patience and understanding, he now readily approaches the car, and in a few minutes will get inside the vehicle by himself. He was not a bad dog, just a puppy who had difficulty getting his rear feet into the vehicle. The next time you find yourself thinking about your stubborn puppy, consider that the puppy might be afraid, might not understand your request, or might have physical difficulty with the task. If you have trouble getting your puppy to cooperate, consider slowing down, taking the time to teach the puppy what is required. It is rarely necessary to trim all the dog’s nails immediately. Trim one nail. Reward with a very valuable treat. Try another tomorrow. Be patient, be understanding, trust your puppy to cooperate when he is able. Allow your puppy to trust you. Do not force him to participate when he does not want to participate. It is a little extra trouble at first, but you will be rewarded with a cooperative dog for life.
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April 2011 | 11
pawz-itively natural by Nadine Joli-Coeur
Top 5 Springtime Tips for Pets Spring has sprung; bluebonnets are starting to bloom, bugs are a buzzing and cars are covered in yellow pollen. I love spring. It is a time of renewal. Here are a few tips on how to start spring on a good note to minimize dangers and allergies.
Mosquitos, Fleas and Ticks. Mosquitoes, for instance, can transmit heartworms; fleas can give your pet tapeworms; and the list of tick-borne diseases is a long one. It takes vigilance on the part of the pet parent to ensure your pet’s health. In addition to your monthly prevention, there are some really good products out there. For yard maintenance make sure to treat your yard with pet friendly products (many can be poisonous if ingested). In addition, spread some DE (diatomaceous earth). Use a food grade DE so if your pet ingests some, it won’t hurt them. Use a pet friendly repellant on your pet, such as a natural spray or shampoos or essential oil based flea & tick products. With a little help from effective preventives, you and your pet will be happier.
Stay Cool. Remember to pay special attention to your pet. Dogs can’t sweat so they control their body temperature by panting. It’s been said before and we all know but it never hurts to repeat —never leave your dog in a car if the weather is warm, and definitely not if it’s hot. Even if the windows are open, the temperature will rise quickly. If they can’t cool themselves down, they can get heatstroke, and in severe cases, it causes death. Symptoms of heatstroke include: heavy panting, salivation, disorientation, agitation, rapid heartbeat, lethargy, vomiting, seizures, coma and death. If you think that your pet may be overheating,
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move him into the shade or into an air-conditioned area, apply cold towels around the head, neck and check and allow him to drink small amounts of water (or lsome ice cubes). When exercising, try using a product called Kool Collars (it really works). By placing a cold collar around his neck, it keeps your pet’s body temperature from heating up. If your pet ever experiences severe signs of heat exhaustion you should bring them to the vet as soon as possible We can also look to Chinese theory for help. In traditional Chinese theory, changing their diet to a protein that cools your body temperature is also beneficial. For example, I have a lab that continually pants regardless of the temperature. After changing his diet to a Fish protein, the panting stopped. Other cooling proteins include duck and rabbit.
Watch out for outdoor dangers. Plants, mushrooms, skunks, deer, frogs, snakes and possums are all things that are dangerous to our pet. One thing that remains constant is our pet’s curiosity and the ability to do things that we would not think of doing. If you are mulching or putting in new plants, please make sure they are not toxic if ingested. There are many lists out there; here is a link to one that I have used. http://www. aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/. Hopefully you will never have to experience a pet that is skunked. Here are a couple homemade recipes that have been pretty successful; 1.http://www.ehow.com/how_6124269_ridskunk-odor-homemade-neutralizer.html 2.http://www.wikihow.com/De-Skunk-YourPet-Using-a-Homemade-Cleaning-Solution If the smell has gotten in the house, or you don’t have the ingredients to make your own, you may want to try Natural Chemistry No Odor or Eco-88. It breaks down the smell and works great on carpets, furniture and pets. As with any products, make sure to do a test patch first to make sure it does not discolor the item from which you are trying to remove the odor.
Allergies, itching and licking.
Be prepared.
We commonly see pet parents come in with pets that suffer from allergies. Allergies are worse around spring and fall. What is interesting is that allergies (or sensitivities) can be made up of a combination of several things; such as food, environment and breed. Most days, you may not notice any symptoms although they may have a mild intolerance to certain foods and environmental factors. However, spring arrives and it raises their allergy over the threshold where you start to see itching, yeasty ears and hot spots. It doesn’t mean that your pet is only allergic to the environment. Most likely a combination of food allergies combined with springtime allergies makes it more severe. If you get ahead of your pet’s allergy, you may be able to lessen the reaction and hopefully avoid an expensive trip to the vet. Food and treats are always a good place to start since you can’t change the environment. We have seen success stories every day on changing pets to a less processed diet and putting them on different proteins. In addition, pets with chronic allergies will find there is relief with natural products that focus on treating the reaction (herbsmith allergy, homeopet).
Whether you are traveling or have an emergency. As much as your dog may love to ride in the bed of a pickup, or hang his head out the window, allowing either can cause a possible injury to your dog. Dust and gravel can get in the eyes; every year dogs are injured or killed when they jump or fall from vehicles. Even in the car, pets can be thrown and injured if you have to brake suddenly. A harness with a seatbelt attachment can save a life in the event an accident does happen. If you’re a boater, don’t forget a lifejacket for your pet. If your pet were to fall off the boat, they may panic and a life jacket will help them tread water. In addition, the bright color will allow you to see them in the water. At home or away, you should put together a first aid kit in case of emergencies. In next month’s newsletter, I will explain how to make your own kit and give you a list of some products out there that you can buy. Enjoy the beautiful weather! With a little preparation you are set to enjoy being a pet parent and getting out and having fun.
Nadine Joli-Coeur is Mom of Dogs Callie, Lucky, Joey and Harold the cat. Natural Pawz has been recognized nationally and locally as a retail leader in natural pet care products. We are a local business to Houston with now 7 locations in and around the Houston area. Stop by for a visit (pets are welcome) Voted Best Grooming Shop in Fort Bend County 2010 and Best Pet Supplies 2 years in a row!
April 2011 | 13
PETSJAM! 2011 is two full days of superstar live concert entertainment coupled with every pet activity under the sun, all to benefit the Houston Humane Society. PETSJAM will take place in Tom Bass Park in Pearland on May 14th & 15th. Gates open Saturday at 10am and close at 10pm. Gates open Sunday at 10am and close at 6pm. Bands begin playing at noon each day. Admission is $20, and the price covers both days. All kids 12 and under are admitted free of charge, and dogs are welcome throughout most of the day. Bands include Krosif, Return to Relevant, Potbelly, Journey Tribute, Dev Electric, Ground Zero, Alpha Rev, Lone Star Hippie, Joan Wynn Ministries, Nothing but Others, and The Marshall Tucker Band. 14 | www.TxDogsAndCats.com
The Houston Humane Society will be on hand with a mobile adoption unit, as well as their current Diamond in the Ruff dogs. Diamond in the Ruff dogs are larger dogs that have been at the shelter for an extended period of time without getting adopted. These dogs typically lack good manners, and are put through 4 weeks of training to learn how to sit, stay, and walk on a leash. Once basic skills have been learned, these fabulous canines are ready to be adopted and join their forever homes. The Diamond in the Ruff program was made possible in part by an Innovation Grant from the PEDIGREE Foundation in recognition of the great things we do for dogs.
spotted by the pupperazzi Furr-tastic or flea infested! The Pupperazzi is on the scene and has your tail covered!
FUN RUN!
April 2011 | 15
The R This basket full of cuteness is filled with Houston’s rescue spokes dogs! Wilson, our cover dog (the Maltese in the basket) was turned into City of Houston’s Animal Shelter and Adoption Facility, also known as BARC. Tossed away by his owners he was lucky enough to have found a Fur-ever home with his human mom, Kathy Bartlett. Wilson is a typical Maltese, a clown who loves to snuggle and give kisses! Dougie (second to the right) is the spokes dog for Lone Star Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso Rescue. Hit by a car and left for dead he spent 5 days with a broken pelvis and collapsed lung waiting on his owner to come claim him- no one did. Thankfully Animal Control called Teresa Osborn and the rest is history!! Dougie spends his days promoting rescue and griping about his Crazy Lady human mom.
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e S C
U E
CREW
London (Far right) was an accident gone good. Turned over to Citizens for Animal Protection because her owners had moved into an apartment. Thankfully she was found when Shannan Parker went into CAP and was quickly adopted. London now helps her human mom educate as many as possible of the importance of adoption rather then purchasing a puppy. Patsy Cline (far left) and her sister Loretta Lynn ARE AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION! Taken to the vet by their owner to be put to sleep because they were no longer wanted, these little southern gals are needing a new home. Loretta Lynn is a special needs case but Patsy Cline is a typical young Maltese! For information, please contact Lone Star Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso Rescue. Each one of these wonder dogs was rescued from a local shelter or rescue group, given love and spoiled rotten and look at what they’ve become! If your looking for a Fur-Ever furry buddy please ADOPT!
April 2011 | 17
dougie deogi
Dougie Deogi, Rescue Reporter happened!?!?! They put me with the girls in an &^%$^ PINK BASKET. Good grief, isn’t this considered animal abuse? She is always making me pose in stupid places and with stupid props, but this really does take the cake.
OMG look at what she’s done now! I feel like a broken record! Every single month, every single week, every single hour, this nutsy crazy lady that I live with takes me to do dumb, stupid, embarrassing things. This one really does put the icing on the cake. So, yesterday, I thought we were going to visit my good friend London, a cute little maltese rescue girl adopted from Citizens for Animal Protection. My good friend “Pretty Boy Wilson” picked me up and off we went together. For some reason, there were two other dogs in the car – Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn – two other maltese that are up for adoption through crazy lady’s rescue.
OK, if you just HAD to put me in a picture with a basket, do you not know I’m a boy, lady? Have you ever noticed my plumbing? HUH? Do I look like I’d like to be in a PINK BASKET? Could ya not get me a BLUE basket? Or even green? Or yellow? NO, you get me a PINK BASKET!! And, by the way……I know I’m mostly white, but do I look like an &^%$^& Easter Bunny? HUH? No, no I do not. Do my ears stand up straight? No! Do I have a little stubby tail? NO! I DO NOT! Do I @#$%^ HOP around? NO I DO NOT!! I’m NOT AN EASTER BUNNY, I’M A DOG! Ahh, I feel much better now! Dougie Deogi, over and out!Dougie Deogi is the official spokes dog for Lone Star ShihTzu & Lhasa Apso Rescue and is a man-abouttown attending rescue events all over Houston. You can follow him on facebook: www.facebook.com/AccordingtoDougie. Lone Star Shih Tzu & Lhasa Apso Rescue is an all-volunteer dog rescue organization focusing on shih tzu and lhasa apsos (and the occasional Maltese). Find them on facebook: www.facebook.com/ lsstlar
We got to London’s house and look what
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WANTED: Guardian Angels
Organization assists in placing pets of deploying troops in foster homes. When our military deploys (combat, or peacekeeping, or humanitarian mission), they often leave behind family members including furry ones. Deployments are a stressful time that is mixed with heartache if single and married couples soldiers are unable to find someone to care for their beloved pets. This is where Guardian Angels for Soldier’s Pet steps into the assisting in locating and placing these beloved pets into one of their registered foster homes, so the pets can be reunited with their owners. In addition, where resources are available the organization assists families with a deployed or wounded loved one and our veterans needing our assistance due to an unforeseen emergency situation impacting their ability to retain their pet ownership rights. When asked as to why they do this, Linda
Spurlin-Dominik, CEO stated, “Our military service members sacrifice so much for our country that by providing safe homes for their pets is our way of giving back to those who defend and protect our country and freedoms. It is our hope that through the programs/services available in all states across the country, we can reduce some the anxiety and uncertainty of deployment plus, at the same time, say “Thank You” for their service and sacrifice.” Guardian Angels for Soldier’s Pet organized during January 2005 in the state of AR. Besides their foster home program, the organization is raising funds to establish the first “Military & Veterans Pet” (MVP) Sanctuary in Gatesville, TX to further ensure they are able to assist where an individual foster home is not available when needed.
To learn more about Guardian Angels for Soldier’s Pet and their efforts visit www.guardianangelsforsoldierspet.org
April 2011 | 19
Tugg Tales....
By Blake Ovard After we found him, he hung his head and droopily walked over to his bed to lay down. Like any other kid who didn’t want to go to school, Tugg was playing sick. That trick might work on someone who hasn’t spent his life studying dog behavior, but it wasn’t going to work on me. When we told Tugg he would get a cookie if he went to the car, he raced passed us and hopped in the back — waiting for his treat.
You may have heard this before, but it’s not easy being the owner of a dog who is also a super hero. Sure, it sounds easy. Just sit back and let the super hero take care of all the business — but it doesn’t quite work that way. Aside from all the normal duties of dog ownership — like keeping track of vet appointments, feeding, watering and scheduling ample play time — there are many other activities and things that need planning. Normal dogs may have a collar or two, a leash, their tags and maybe a sweater or coat for cold weather. Super hero dogs like Tugg need many other items just to get by. At a minimum, six different collars are required. And, every good super hero dog needs at least three leashes. A single sweater or coat? If your super hero dog doesn’t have as many outfits in a closet as you do, you’re probably going to need to go shopping. And, let’s not forget, you also need a couple of super hero capes as well. But, there is one thing all dogs need, even ones who are super heroes — obedience class. We told Tugg he would be in the next obedience class I was teaching, but he was sure we were mistaken. After all, he has his super hero cape, has ridden in fire trucks, police cars and helicopters, had his photo taken for magazines and has taught children at school about responsible pet ownership, not to bully and not make fun of others. Surely we wouldn’t make him go to a formal obedience class. When we were packing up for the trip to class, Tugg knew something wasn’t right. He went into the living room, pulled several toys out of his box, then climbed in and tried to blend in and hide. It took us nearly five minutes of searching for him while calling his name to find him. 20 | www.TxDogsAndCats.com
Tugg was still apprehensive as he approached the training room, with mommy in tow holding the other end of his leash. In the doorway, his whole demeanor changed, and the heroic side of his character came out. He exuded confidence, and all of the other dogs turned to see who had just entered the room. I watched from the far end of the room as Tugg and mommy passed by many of the other dogs in class. As the pair went down the line, it almost looked as though all the dogs knew each other. The Poodle slightly moved, in a way that said, “oo la la.” The Lab and German Shepherd wagged their tails. The Border Collie nodded his head, the Catahoula watched intently and the pair of Bichon Frise did a circle then sat. The Komondor stayed in a down position and nodded. Tugg, in turn, nodded his head at each of them as he passed. The Pug got loose from his owner and made a bee-line for where Tugg had stopped next to the pause table. The Pug’s owner, in pursuit, tripped over the Papillon’s leash next to him, and everyone got excited. The Pug’s owner was on the ground. The Papillon’s owner was trying to help him up, and both the Pug and the Papillon were standing in front of me, looking at Tugg. It may not be easy, but life with a super hero dog is never boring.
Blake Ovard is a dog trainer, writer and artist who lives just south of Fort Worth. When he’s not busy with those things, he’s also an animal control officer for Fort Worth.
April 2011 | 21
LET’S
ROLL
calendar of events
2
BBQ Fundraiser Saturday, April 2, 2011 11:00 - 3:00 at Polka Dot Dogs Doggie Daycare, Kennel & Grooming, 2505 Ella Blvd. HHS Pup Pals, a community organization formed to raise money exclusively for the Houston Humane Society, is sponsoring a BBQ Fundraiser
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APRIL
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Yappy Hour The Pawty Palace, 1402 East Avenue, Katy 77493 Food, drinks and TONS of fun 2 leggers and 4 leggers! Head over to The Pawty Palace in Old Katy!
Adopt-A-Thon April 10th, 2011 CAP 2011 Tour for Life Adopt-a-thon 1-6pm, Citizens for Animal Protection Pet Adopt-A-Thon event will be held at the CAP shelter. Tour for Life is the world’s largest cooperative national adoption initiative aimed at reinforcing the importance of adopting pets from shelters and making the public aware that shelter dogs and cats are wonderful lifetime companions.
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Houston Pet Expo- April 16 from 2-6. FREE ADMISSION for pets and their peeps! Reliant Center
APRIL 15, 2011, 5pm-10pm
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5th Annual West”MUTT”ster Dog Walk Saturday, April 17th, 2010
Bring your pooches and strut your stuff on the dog walk at the Special PAls 5th Annual West *MUTT-ster* Dog walk! Join the fun at LaCenterra at 9am.
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Mutts, Meows & Margaritas 2011 Join Friends of BARC at Cadillac Bar for their fourth annual Mutts, Meows & Margaritas event! A silent auction, entertainment, food and fun. Visit FriendsOfBarc. org for more information.
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L O OK This little lamb is a puppies delight! Not recommended for sheepdogs! ;) available at The Pawty Palace in Old Katy
Adopt a rabbit magnet- This adorable Adopt a Rabbit car magnet is not only fun but live saving! Hop over to The Pawty Palace in Old Katy to pick up yours!
This soft plush Easter chicken makes it easy for your pet to toss catch or shake. Available at The Pawty Palace in Old Katy!
Let everybody know who’s helping hunt those Easter Eggs! Made in U.S.A. of cotton with a touch of Lycra for fit. Available at Funny Fur on Westheimer
Be the leader of the pack with this Official Easter Egg Hunter T-shirt! Available at The Pawty Palace in Old Katy!
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One of my FAVORITE toys of the month! Catty Stack designer cat houses are the contemporary, economical, ecofriendly, and configurable alternative to traditional cat furniture. Set up is simple and cats go CRAZY! Available Only at Natural Paws! (available in 5 different colors)
Chicks dig bows! Even more so when a chick is on it! Check out this bow and many more Easter treats at The Pawty Palace in Old Katy!
The Honey ‘n Bunny Toy by Louisdog is made of soft faux fur and cotton with a Louisdog signature ribbon and squeaker inside.
Sock Rabbit is a nostalgic favorite made from durable “sock” material. Each dog toy has a squeaker inside too. Available at Funny Fur on Westheimer
Available at Funny Fur on Westheimer
Bunny McFlop is the perfect friend for late night snuggling or day time roughhousing! Bunny hop over to Natural Paws to pick up yours!
Organic, plush and it SQUEAKS!!! Lucy Rabbit is a puppy’s Easter Basket dream come true! Pick yours up at Natural Paws!
Dogs will go BaaBaa-Baalistic for Lamiedoodles! Dogs love these whimsical lambs! Equipped with squeakers for added fun. Available at Natural Paws!
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rescue resources Adopt A Cat, Inc www.spayhouston.org All Texas Dachshund Rescue www.atdr.org A New Dawn Pet Adoption www.anewdawnpetadoption.org American Brittany Rescue www.americanbrittanyrescue.org
for a complete list go to txdogsandcats.com
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Austin German Shepherd Dog Rescue www.austingermanshepherdrescue.org Basset Buddies Rescue of Texas www.basset-buddies-rescue.org Best Friends FurEver www.furever.org Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society www.bluebonnetequine.org Boston Terrier Rescue of Greater Houston www.houstonbostonrescue.org Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club of Greater Houston, Inc. www.cavaliersofhouston.org Chesapeake Bay Retriever Relief & Rescue www.cbrrescue.org Chihuahua Rescue and Transport www.chihuahua-rescue.com Cocker Spaniel Rescue www.cockerkids.org Dakota Rescue www.dakotarescue.org Doberman Rescue Group www.dobermanrescuegroup.org English Bulldog Rescue Network English Springer Rescue America www.springerrescue.org Greyhound Pets of America Houston www.gpahouston.org Great Dane Rescue of Southeast Texas www.saveadane.org Great Pyrenees Rescue Society www.greatpyreneesrescuesociety.org Houston Area Ferret Association www.houstonareaferretassociation.com Houston Beagle Rescue www.houstonbeaglerescue.org Houston Collie Rescue www.houstoncollierescue.org Houston Lab Rescue www.houstonlabrescue.com Houston Sheltie Sanctuary www.houstonsheltiesanctuary.com Husky Haven Inc www.huskyhaven.org Lonestar Boxer Rescue www.lsbr.org Miniature Schnauzer Rescue of Houston www.msrh.org Montgomery County Animal Shelter www.montgomerycountypets.com Noah’s Ark www.noahsarksanctuary.org PugHearts, the Houston Pug Rescue www.pughearts.com S.A.F.E. House Rescue & Adoption www.safehouserescue.org Save Our Strays www.saveourstraysfortbend.org Second Chance Poms www.geocities.com/udxpom Smiling Dog Farms www.smilingdogfarms.org South Texas Aussie Rescue www.southtexasaussierescue.org Southeast Texas Labrador Retriever Rescue www.txlabrescue.org Texas Alaskan Malamute Rescue www.texalmal.org Texas Collie Rescue www.texascollierescue.org Texas Great Pyrenees Rescue Group, Inc. www.txpyrs.org Treat Em Right Rescue www.cooperanimalclinic.com Tri-State Bloodhound Rescue www.tristatebloodhoundrescue.org Weimeranier Rescue of North Texas www.weimrescuetexas.org Westie Rescue Houston www.dogwhimsy.com Yorkie and Small Dog Rescue www.yorkieandsmalldogrescue.com Yorkshire Terrier Club of Houston www.ytcgh.com Zeke Fund Animal Rescue www.zfar.org
DID YOU KNOW?? * The cocoa tree contains two naturally occurring substances - theobromine and caffeine - both of which are toxic to dogs * Americans buy more than 700 million MARSHMALLOW PEEPS during the Easter holiday * In all, 90 million chocolate Easter bunnies are made for Easter every year. And, when taking a bite into one of those millions of chocolate bunnies, 76% of Americans prefer to bite off the ears first, while 5% eat the feet first and 4% eat the tail first. * 90 million chocolate Easter bunnies are made for Easter each year. * Each day, five million marshmallow chicks and bunnies are produced in preparation for Easter. * 82 percent of Americans say they would prefer a chocolate or candy bunny for Easter, while only 4 percent say they would prefer a live rabbit (YEA!) * In medieval times a festival of egg-throwing was held in church, during which the priest would throw a hard-boiled egg to one of the choir boys. It was then tossed from one choir boy to the next and whoever held the egg when the clock struck 12 was the winner and retained the egg. April 2011 | 27
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Laser Surgery Works For My Mom. Why Not Me? CRITTER CARE ANIMAL HOSPITAL
Laser surgery. Faster healing time. Less bleeding. Less pain. 1304 Dairy Ashford | Sugar Land, Texas 77478 Phone: 281.494.7700 | Fax: 281.494.7701 www.crittercareonline.com
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Know The Last Decision You Make Is The Right One.
Call or Tour our Center 281.342.PAWS (7297)
www.PawsMemorialService.com Your Pet Funeral Home & Crematory
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‘cuz ve you loe m
Dogs, Cats, Birds & Exotics Wellness Care Immunizations Dentistry Bathing Boarding Surgery Laser Surgery Digital Radiology Ultrasound
Minor Emergency Center Hours:
Kingsland Hours: Monday-Thursday: 7am - 7pm Friday: 7am - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 4pm
Monday-Friday: 6pm-12am Saturday: 4pm - 12am Sunday: 12pm - 10pm
www.kingslandamec.com E
Taylor High School
Kingsland Blvd.
S. Fry Rd.
I-10 Katy Freeway
Westgreen
(281) 578-1506
S. Mason Rd.
W
20701 Kingsland Blvd., Suite 105 Katy, TX 77450 (Across From Taylor High School)
Dominion Dr.
www.kingslandvet.com
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