PETacular Spring 2015

SPRING 2015 • VOLUME 11 • ISSUE 1

gazette.com/pets

Powers Pet Emergency proudly adds MRI Paws A Moment: Local artist creates PETacular cartoons Avoid common feeding mistakes Need some doggie duds?

Bobbie’s got you covered

Bunny Business: Consider adoption this spring

FR EE

You’re invited to the Kitty Love Café!

CompassionateCare: Fear of cancer should not stop owners from extending pet lives

BY HANNAH BLICK, PETACULAR LEFT: The chemotherapy room at Southern Colorado Veterinary Internal Medicine sees a handful of visitors each week with varying types of cancer.

Photo by Hannah Blick, PETacular FAR LEFT: Golden retriever mix Copper was 12 years old when he died of cancer in 2011. His owner Karin Cannizzo, DVM, MS, ACVIM, made sure Copper’s final months of life were pain free with chemotherapy treatments.

Photo courtesy of SCVIM

Southern Colorado

VETERINARY INTERNAL MEDICINE

Southern Colorado Veterinary Internal Medicine is proud to announce the addition of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) to our practice!

Southern Colorado is proud to be the only hospital in Southern Colorado offering this progressive treatment. The Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) chamber is designated for pets, and it accelerates the healing process for patients by delivering 100 percent pure oxygen under pressure. HBOT is useful in a variety of clinical situations and is most often given in combination with other modes of therapy. Here are a few examples of adjunctive therapy involving HBOT: • Pancreatitis • Infections • Nerve Damage • Fracture healing • Post-surgical recovery • Skin and tissue damage • Burns, ulcers and arthritis

Our Real Specialty is Caring Our Veterinarians

Chris McReynolds, DVM, DACVIM Macon Miles, DVM, DACVIM Karin Cannizzo, DVM, DACVIM Brad Hines, DVM, DACVIM Board Certified By the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine We are pleased to announce that Kirk Sears, DVM, DACVIM will be joining our practice in April 2015 Located inside the Veterinary Specialty Center

5520 N. Nevada Ave #110 • www.imvets.com 2

SPRING 2015

719.272.4004

PETACULAR

Dr. Karin Cannizzo, DVM, MS, ACVIM, understands the fear that surrounds a cancer diagnosis firsthand, but she also understands that pursuing treatment is often one of the best decisions a family can make for its pet.

In 2010, she diagnosed her then 7-year-old Australian cattle dog Teva with lymphoma after feeling a lump under her skin. “She was so vibrant, I was shocked,” she said.

Dr. Cannizzo, an internist a Southern Colorado Veterinary Medicine, 5520 N. Nevada Avenue, said she panicked, knowing immediately it was cancer. She felt like she had already lost Teva, which left her uncertain if she should try to treat the dog.

“There’s so much fear around the word ‘cancer,’ but it’s different than people realize,” Dr. Cannizzo said.

“When it was suddenly my pet, I had to actively stop myself from being controlled by fear, because I understand how powerful that kind of reaction could be.”

She decided to treat Teva’s cancer, feeling it would be hypocritical to urge her clients to treat their pets while not taking the leap of faith with her own. Five years later, Teva is still alive, and it only took the first treatment for Dr. Cannizzo to realize that treating was the right choice for them both, despite the end result. “I owed it to her,” she said.

Though Teva’s treatment was successful, Dr. Cannizzo is not immune to the pain that comes with losing a pet to cancer. Over the years, she has lost three dogs and one cat to the disease, including her 12-year-old golden retriever mix Copper in 2011. She appreciates how the experiences have helped her in

guiding families through a cancer diagnosis and treatment.

“Animals generally do very well with cancer treatments in large part because they’re not aware of the language, they have no fear of the future,” she said. “The emotional burden of treating cats and dogs with cancer is on us.”

Cancer treatment is not just about finding a cure. Many cannot expect a cure, but they can use surgery and/ or medicine to improve the quality of a pet’s life and then focus on extending it. “The remaining time you have with them is often outstanding, because your pet doesn’t worry about the future,” Dr. Cannizzo said.

“Because they feel good, they are their typical, playful selves; it’s all about perspective. One more year is a long time for a pet. You can think about how much fun you’ll get to have with them during the holidays or the following summer.”

Cancer treatments vary, and each treatment schedule is tailored to the individual animal and the cancer.

When it comes to older pets, age is not necessarily a hindrance to recovery. “Older dogs often do better than younger dogs when treating lymphoma,” Dr. Cannizzo said.

Though there are not many ways to prevent cancer in pets, spaying females before or after their first heat cycles can drastically decrease their risks of developing mammary cancer.

If your pet does develop cancer, the type and location of the cancer guide the treatment options. “We may do surgery to remove the mass; shrink the mass with radiation, or prescribe medications to treat it from the inside,” Dr. Cannizzo said. “We lose pets to cancer; I don’t want to lose them to fear.”

Published by The Gazette

SPRING ISSUE: March 1, 2015

Paws A Moment: Local artist to create cartoons for PETacular readers .................. 4 30 East Pikes Peak Avenue, Suite 100, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903

President & Publisher Dan Steever Advertising Director Rhonda Miller Local Community Sales Manager Erik Carlson Editor, PETacular Hannah Blick Graphic Designer Gina Pietramale Advertising Designer Connie Rasor Advertising Coordinator Cathy Tapia To advertise: 719-636-0130

Powers Pet Emergency adds state-of-the-art MRI to facility ............ 5 Spring pet event calendar .......................... 6 Look What The Cat Brought In plans Kitty Love Café series ....................... 7 Vet Central: Avoiding common feeding mistakes with your pet ............................... 8 North Powers Animal Hospital ................. 10 Get ready for the 2015 Barks & Bling event! ........................ 11 Readers submit PETacular poetry ............ 12 Local woman lovingly sews doggie duds ................................... 13 Top Dog Business Directory..................... 15

More than 1,300 lost pets never had to make our shelter their home in 2014 – officers reunited them directly with their families.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, GO TO

HSPPR.ORG/ALE

ANIMAL LAW ENFORCEMENT PETACULAR

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non-profitto Local artist pen pet cartoons

Lee Bathelt started as a volunteer, became McReynolds, volunteer coordinator, and is now a board Terra Kraettli member. Robbyn Winburn began volunteering they’d been arted as a volunteer, became one shift a week, and is now a full staff member. e of non-profit rdinator, and is now a board Both have adopted dogs through the store! eynand welfare Winburn began volunteering

BY HANNAH BLICK, PETACULAR Volunteer recruiting is continuous. There is more upscale k, and is now a full staff member. easily enough work to require 3-4 staffers on .

Rescued opted dogs through the store! every shift. The fact that their dogs are welcome ed accepting Leslie Thompson uiting is continuous.

Therehas is been in the store is a real draw for volunteers. It also in February work todrawing require since 3-4 staffers onthree years she was is a reason many people enjoy shopping at fact that their dogs are old growing upwelcome in New Hampshire.

RHUB---they get their “doggy fix!” It’s a rare real draw for volunteers. It also “I hadenjoy a dogshopping growing up, the people country many at so I’ve day there isn’t at least one dog on duty as and shelters. combined my It’s twoaloves,” et their “doggy fix!” rare she said. greeter. lter, and Thompson fund at least one dog on dutydraws as whimsical hand The store sells typical donated thrift store benefit larger cartoons of dogs and cats, and items---gently used (and new) clothing, purses, uch as Cause ls typical donated starting this thrift issue,store her creations shoes, furniture, decorative items, books, CDs, und a smaller used (and new) clothing, purses, will run quarterly in PETacular DVDs, kitchen items, pet supplies, and jewelry. a and Marcy e, decorative items, books, CDs, magazine.

Leslie Thompson and Goose There are also antiques and collectibles. Donors yitems, 2 years ago, pet supplies,She andshould jewelry.have plenty receive a receipt for tax purposes. Select new eantiques owner.

She collectibles.

Donors her home ofand material, considering merchandise is purchased for resale, including truly an ptwas for tax purposes.

Select new and heart have been filled with gifts and pet supplies. Diapers and belly bands scess purchased for resale, including of Cause the Old North End Neighborhood rescue pets in her 35 years living in for dogs are made by volunteers, as are dog pplies.

Diapers ion to go that and belly bands downtown. She is active in the local Springs. made byColorado volunteers, as are dog and cat beds using recycled fabrics. During using recycled fabrics.inspires Duringme, it arts community, entering her work “The humor the summer, a furniture annex was opened in xperienced in was furniture annex in said. the same strip mall, allowing for the storage of in shows at local galleries including happens everyopened day,” she tive animalfor the storage of mall,inallowing more furniture, seasonal items and donated pet The Modbo, 17 E. Bijou Street, and Sometimes she catches it on paper, seasonal items and donated pet are essential food.

Commonwheel Artists Co-op, sometimes with her camera or in Their personal 102 Canon Avenue in Manitou of her subjects The long-delayed website recently launched, mmunitypoetry. were One the key tofavorite knowing where they with She opportunities people locally and around h the abundance of 10-year-old rescue groups in the area, Springs. also enjoysfor creating is Goose, her Great the country support our groups and causes. hose who don’t have as many members. pet portraits and to offers her services Pyrenees/Labrador Retriever mix. They Thereinare also. operate somewhat under the radar. The idea is theeducational community.links, Contact Thompson studied art and drawing to anyone publicity for them, as well as extra fund-raising Come to Rescued Hearts her at ljt960@comcast.net for Unique Boutique—it at California State University, is a great place to donate and a fun place moretruly information.

Chico and now makes her home in s an enthusiastic supporter of two larger groups to shop! e an exceptional approach to dog rescue, All Rescue & Training and Lucky Dog Rescue. dog comes into their custody, they go through reinforcement training. This practice aids essful adoption rate. Both groups help the ners address any issues that might arise, to the dog from being returned.

In addition to cues, Rescued Hearts helps cat, horse, reptile, nd exotic rescues, as well as Hamlett Spay and A non-profit thrift store funding animal rescue/welfare groups.

Clinic.

re closely involved ontinually network r homes, rescue mals in need with

Celebrating our 2nd Anniversary, February 2015. Thank you for your strong support!

YOU

il sales. There are eet the groups the ually involve food, are educational, Adoption fairs are fairs and adopted Adoption Service, Bon Carbo, and Pals Forever have also done also collects donations of pet food, which are

can make a difference in the lives of rescued animals.

Fun

Shop

Donate

up each month until the first grant checks were lent auction for Ruby Ranch Horse Rescue. It ne, but when they took in horses from the Black ven greater. Bids came from as far away as also were wine tastings for Lucky Dog Rescue, or Happy Cats Haven, a Pass the Puppy Party untain, and desserts at a “Talk with the Trainers” .

s that are drawn to be a part of this all-volunteer Susan Sterritt and Cathy Zapien joined long ly, Susan became a board member, but now Cathy and Terra. Cathy, the first full staffer is and master of clothes pricing!

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Volunteer 3314 Austin Bluffs Pkwy

(west of Academy)

466-9797

www.rescued-hearts.org

A great place to donate, a fun place to shop.

Like us on Facebook

Powers Pet Emergency and Specialty welcomes MRI technology to site

These transverse images of the same boxer’s brain show an astrocytoma, a specific type of brain tumor the breed is known for developing. The MRI helps to further characterize the lesion by looking at it with different imaging settings and distinguish it from just an abscess or cyst. Photos courtesy of Powers Pet Emergency & Specialty

BY HANNAH BLICK, PETACULAR

Powers Pet Emergency and Specialty (PPERS) is stepping up its pet-care game with the addition of a state-of-the-art veterinary MRI, making it one of only six locations that offer MRI capabilities onsite in Colorado.

An MRI — magnetic resonance imaging — scan is a detailed form of diagnostic imaging that allows a veterinarian to see inside a pet’s body. Unlike an X-ray, the MRI images are more detailed and do not use radiation. MRI scans can help veterinarians catch developing internal health issues in places like the brain and spinal cord.

“We are very excited to offer this to our patients and all of Colorado Springs,” said Dr. Lee Wilwerding, DVM, owner of PPERS, 5886 Tutt Boulevard. The team began talking about bringing an MRI to its location in October, and after several months of working through zoning laws, building codes, and paperwork, it’s finally here.

DIAGNOSTIC USES “MRI has been used in human diagnosis for years, but was not widely available in veterinary medicine until relatively recently,” said Dr. Rainier Ko, DVM, M.S. Dipl.

ACVS, Dipl. ACVIM (Neurology) at PPERS. With this technology, veterinarians now can more accurately determine the cause and location of many animal diseases. Some veterinary facilities use low-field scanners that might miss subtle, but significant, changes, which is why PPERS uses only the most recent stateof-the-art high-field scanners for diagnosing patients.

“We are most likely to use an MRI

scan to diagnose problems with a dog or cat’s spinal cord or brain,” Dr. Ko said. After veterinarians have exhausted more traditional diagnostic options like a physical exam or blood work, an MRI can provide detailed pictures of the internal anatomy, like the nervous system. “For example, if your dog has been having epileptic seizures because of a cerebral stroke, an MRI can show me what the underlying cause of the seizure is and how best to prevent it from happening again,” Dr. Ko said. “In some cases, veterinarians are using MRI scans to diagnose skeletal problems in dogs, like ACL tears in the knee.”

MRI scans can also provide spine imaging for disc disease, strokes, or tumors and lead to typing of brain tumors without an invasive biopsy for potentially cancerous cases. “It helps in distinguishing disease from normal tissue, detecting tumors and malignancy, and determining if a tumor will best be treated with surgery or radiation therapy,” Dr. Ko said.

expensive, and require specialized training and maintenance. “All PPERS neurology staff who will be using the new, on-site MRI will undergo extensive training to ensure everything is handled properly,” Dr. Ko said.

Pets undergoing an MRI scan must be placed under general anesthesia, which means withholding food for 12 hours prior to the scan. The time required to complete an MRI study will vary — about one or two hours — but MRI imaging is only effective if the pet stays still for the duration of the scan. “The pet will be under the direct supervision of a certified anesthetist throughout the procedure and patients will be placed on a padded, comfortable table,” Dr. Ko said. We will contact the

owners when the procedure is completed.”

If a pet is not already hospitalized, it will be admitted in the morning of the scheduled MRI scan. Following the MRI scan, pets will be moved to a quiet, warm and safe recovery area for several hours prior to discharge.

“We are excited to be able to provide this service so pets in our community don’t have to travel up to Denver or to New Mexico for an MRI,” Dr. Wilwerding said. “It’s going to provide faster service by having it at a vet office rather than using a human facility.” PPERS also anticipates an on-site MRI will be will be less traumatic for both pets and owners.

“Having this technology onsite is not only convenient, it also can mean the difference between getting a diagnosis in immediately,” Dr. Ko said. “It also means that under the same general anesthesia, a pet can undergo surgery to fix whatever the problem is, without having to schedule another appointment or wait any longer.”

PET-FRIENDLY An MRI scan is safe and noninvasive procedure that does not cause any pain or discomfort for pets. Unlike a CT scan or X-ray, no ionizing radiation is used; instead, an MRI uses strong magnet and radio waves to generate highly detailed images of internal anatomy.

“The MRI scanner is, essentially, a huge magnet,” Dr. Ko said. “Radio waves from the magnet travel into the dog's body, then are released when the magnet is turned off. The released waves are interpreted by the scanner to form an image on a screen.” MRI scanners are extremely

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PET EVENTS

MARCH 4

An Evening of Animal Communication 6:30 – 9 p.m. at Celebration Metaphysical Center, 975 W. Garden of the Gods Road, Suite C Featuring International Animal Communicator Anna Twinney.

Through demonstrations, lectures and exercises, Anna will introduce you to the amazing world of interspecies, telepathic communication. Space is limited, reserve your spot for just $65!

Call 719-634-1855 or email info@ reachouttohorses.com to RSVP. Visit www.celebrationstore.com for more information.

MARCH 14

live auctions run by emcee David Nancarrow from KKTV Channel 11 News. Cost is $45.

Visit www.bfasfarm.org to make reservations.

full bar, a doggie trade show, local pet products, a photo booth and more. All proceeds will be donated to HSPPR. Call 719-636-3435 for more information.

Second Chance Animal Rescue Adoption Fairs

APRIL 15

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Wag N’ Wash, 1234 E. Woodmen Road Also March 28; April 11 and 25; May 9 and 23 Come and meet the newest member of your family! Give a pet a second chance by adopting rescue animals of all shapes and sizes.

Visit awos.petfinder.com/shelters/ secondchance-arf.html for more information.

Look What The Cat Brought In’s First Annual Birthday Breakfast 7 – 9 a.m. at Garden of the Gods Club, 3320 Mesa Road.

Come help celebrate LWTCBI’s 7th birthday and see what the shelter is up to! Colorado Springs council member Jan Martin will be the keynote speaker. Call 719-201-5180 or email ariel_heart@msn.com to RSVP.

APRIL 25

Galloping Gala

MARCH 31

6 p.m. at the Hotel Eleganté Conference and Event Center, 2886 S. Circle Drive To benefit Southern Colorado Animal Rescue DBA Black Forest Animal Sanctuary, an all animal and volunteer 501c3 organization.

Wine and beer tasting sponsored by Bristol Brewing Company. Silent and

2nd Annual Barks & Bling

“Indiana Bones” 2015 Fur Ball

4:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Hotel Eleganté Conference and Event Center, 2886 S. Circle Drive A community fundraiser with Blue Fox Photography and Tayco Screen Printing & Embroidery, Inc. — in its second year! Come for an evening of fun, food and furry friends. Enjoy the

6 p.m. at the Cheyenne Mountain Resort, 3225 Broadmoor Valley Road Dinner, silent auction, pet parade and more, to benefit the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region.

Call 719-302-8743 or visit www. hsppr.org/furball to make reservations.

APRIL 25, 26

Colorado Springs Pet Expo 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on April 25; 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on April 26 at the Colorado Springs Event Center, 3960 Palmer Park Boulevard Sponsored by RJ Promotions and featuring Eric and Angelyne, the amazing deaf cattle dog! Sign up for door prizes, watch demos, attend training seminars or adopt your next pet. Plus, enjoy more than 165 top pet exhibitors from across the state.

Visit www.cspetexpo.com for more information. Check www.gazette. com/deal for discounted tickets.

The Homeward Bound Promise “We Care For Your Pets Like They Were Our Own”

We are the only full service pet memorial center in Colorado.

• Offering you and your pet the care and respect you both deserve • Memorial chapel and observation room for witnessed cremations • Discreet and respectful house call service • Elite Equine After Care • Helping you through this difficult time

636-1036

318 Karen Lane Colorado Springs 80907 From I-25 - East on Fillmore, North on Beacon St. & West on Karen Lane

For More Information on Services & Memorial Products

www.Homeward-Bound-Pet.com 6

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Le Café des Chats: LEFT: Tabby Portland plays in the colony room at Look What The Cat Brought In’s (LWTCBI) new location, 2129 E. Boulder Street. LWTCBI will host an open Kitty Love Café at 1 p.m. on March 7. Community members can meet and play with friendly, adoptable cats like Portland.

BELOW: Pear sunbathes in the LWTCBI colony room on a sunny, winter day. Want to find out how you can support our cat community? Attend Look What The Cat Brought In’s First Annual Birthday Breakfast from 7–9 a.m. at Garden of the Gods Club, 3320 Mesa Road. Come help celebrate LWTCBI’s 7th birthday and see what the shelter is up to! Colorado Springs council member Jan Martin will be the keynote speaker. Call 719-2015180 or email ariel_heart@msn.com to RSVP. Photos by Hannah Blick, PETacular

Look What The Cat Brought In invites community to Kitty Love Café

BY HANNAH BLICK, PETACULAR

First Tokyo, then Paris, New York City and San Francisco — now a cat café is coming to Colorado Springs.

Look What The Cat Brought In (LWTCBI), 2129 E. Boulder Street, will host the opening of its Kitty Love Café at 1 p.m. on March 7, followed by weekly events. The shelter is continuing to celebrate its new and expanded location in the Knob Hill neighborhood and hopes the cafés will help foster community for its resident cats and give community members a chance to meet and learn about adoptable felines.

Jennifer Nosler, director of LWTCBI, said hosting the Kitty Love Café seemed like the next logical step in connecting with the community.

“There are families that can’t take a kitty home — maybe one family member has allergies — so this is a perfect opportunity for them to come and play with our cats,” she said.

“It will also help our cats develop relationships and trust, making them that much more adoptable.” There will be a small cover charge for guests.

Megan Phillips, BS, ADBC, owner of and behavior consultant for Train With Trust, will help facilitate the initial café, making sure the cats are comfortable with new visitors and children and adults know how to appropriately interact with the cats.

Drinks and snacks will be provided

at each Kitty Love Café; attendees are welcome to bring their own beverages and food items. “We just want everyone to have a good time,” Nosler said. “That’s what it’s really all about.

It will be good for the cats and it will be good for people.”

LWTCBI was founded in 2008, and takes in cats that need more long-term care and time than they would get at a typical shelter. Many of its cats come from shelters like the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region and rescues like Second Chance Animal Rescue Foundation (SCARF) in Lamar. LWTCBI also takes private surrenders and works with partners like the Denver Dumb Friends League to find homes for feline colony rescues. The shelter runs purely on volunteer power, with about 40 people giving their time each week or month to keep up operations.

2015 should prove to be a big year for the shelter, with a new Hoarding Awareness Coalition in the works and kicking off a series of feline behavior classes. Phillips will instruct the classes, starting with the topic of providing enrichment for cats at 1 p.m. on March 22. “It’s going to have workshop elements and be very hands on,” she said. Stay tuned to www.lookwhatthecatbroughtin.org or visit LWTCBI’s Facebook page for more information.

ADOPT

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

We are a limited admission, guaranteed adoption shelter founded in 2008.

Our goal is to find loving homes for cats that otherwise would not.

NEW LO

CATION

2129 E. Boulder Street 719.331.6852

LookWhatTheCatBroughtIn.org PETACULAR

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VET CENTRAL

Black Forest Veterinary Clinic 12655 Black Forest Rd. Suite 118 Black Forest, CO 80908 (719) 495-3666

www.BlackForestVetClinic.com Ted H. Mohr, DVM Rick E. Coufal, DVM Amy C. Mueller, DVM

Northgate Animal Hospital 12225 Voyager Pkwy #12 Colorado Springs, CO 80921 (719) 481-3080

www.NorthgateAnimalHospital.net Laura J. Scott, DVM

North Powers Animal Hospital

FOOD FRENZY: 6 common feeding mistakes that can harm your pet

BY JORDAN WALKER, SPECIAL TO PETACULAR

Raising a pet means being responsible for its needs.

Among a pet’s primary needs is getting the Jordan Walker right amount of nutrients to meet its energy requirements and be healthy.

While pet parents want the best for their furry friends, they are often unaware of what and how much to feed their pets. Pet obesity is a growing concern in several countries, affecting millions of pets. Here are a few mistakes people commonly make when it comes to feeding pets.

Feeding pets ‘human’ food Some pet owners believe what is good for humans should be good for pets, but certain human foods can make a pet sick. For example, experts have praised the benefits of high-quality chocolate, onion, garlic, avocado, grapes, and macadamia nuts to the human body, but these same foods are toxic to pets. Many of us are guilty

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of occasionally feeding table scraps to pets, and for some, it’s a common household practice. However, doing so could mean feeding your pets harmful ingredients and contribute unnecessary weight gain. Still, not all “human” foods are bad for pets.

Healthy options include green beans, carrots, zucchini, cooked lean meats, cooked potatoes, and bananas.

Owners must note individual pets can handle various types of human foods, based on animal type and state of health.

5470 Powers Center Pt., Suite 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 282-1222

www.npahvet.com Russell Welfare, DVM Gwen Carlson, DVM

St. Francis Animal Hospital Located in Briargate 8834 N. Union Blvd Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 282-3443

www.FrancisVet.net Kim Kaufer, DVM Kerri Mozinski, DVM

24-HOUR EMERGENCY CARE

Powers Pet Emergency and Specialty Now at our new location 5886 Tutt Blvd Colorado Springs, CO 80923 719-473-0482

PowersPetEmergency.com Free and over feeding Free feeding can unintentionally lead to pet obesity. Many pet owners probably do this because they are out for most of the day and can’t come home for individual feedings.

Keeping the feeding bowl full at all times may keep a pet from going hungry, but it also does encourage a pet to eat more than it needs.

Free-fed pets are more likely to become obese than those fed at meal intervals. However, nursing pet mothers may benefit from free

Lee Wilwerding, DVM

To Feature Your Clinic in Vet Central contact: Cathy.Tapia@gazette.com or 719.636.0130

BOARD CERTIFIED VETERINARIANS

Colorado Canine Orthopedics & Rehab 5520 N. Nevada Ave. Suite 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 264-6666

www.CanineOrtho.com

Michael Bauer, DVM, Diplomate, ACVS Todd Riecks, DVM, Diplomate, ACVS Scot Swainson, DVM, Diplomate, ACVS Nate Miller DVM, Diplomate, ACVS Bonnie Wright, DVM, Diplomate ACVAA, Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner, Certified in Veterinary Medical Acupuncture, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Powers Pet Emergency and Specialty Now at our new location 5886 Tutt Blvd Colorado Springs, CO 80923 719-473-0482

PowersPetEmergency.com

Dr. Rainier Ko, DVM, MS, DACVS-SA, DACVIM

Southern Colorado Veterinary Internal Medicine 5520 N. Nevada Ave. #110 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 272-4004

www.IMvets.com

Chris Reynolds, DVM, DACVIM Karin Cannizzo, DVM, DACVIM Brad Hines, DVM, DACVIM Macon Miles, DVM, DACVIM

Southern Colorado

VETERINARY INTERNAL MEDICINE

COMPOUNDED MEDICINE FOR PETS

Monument Pharmacy 115 Second St., Suite C Monument, CO 80132 (719) 481-2209 Same Day Pickup

www.monumentpharmacy.com

To Feature Your Clinic in Vet Central contact: Cathy.Tapia@gazette.com or 719.636.0130

feeding, since they will need all the nutrients they can get to nourish both their new litter and themselves.

Not feeding by life stage

Doting pet owners often shower their pets with affection in the form of tasty treats. While this is a sweet gesture on their part, it is misguided.

Treats are high-calorie foods that can derail a pet’s health if consumed in excess. The Pet Food Manufacturers Association polled British pet owners and found those with obese pets were guilty of over-treating.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, treats should comprise five percent or less of a pet’s daily food intake.

If pets are participating in training in which treats are heavily used, owners or trainers should use the smallest pieces of treats possible, and meal sizes should be adjusted accordingly. Treats are not designed to replace entire meals, but they do need to be counted as part of the total food intake.

Pet owners should note that pets are individual beings. They vary in their energy and overall health needs, even among pets of the same breed. Each pet will have different requirements as it grows — that’s why there are pet foods designed for puppies, adults, and seniors. Some pet owners ask whether it’s okay to continue giving puppy food to a growing dog. Younger pets generally have higher energy needs than older ones, which means food for young pets tend to be higher in protein and fat. Giving puppy food to adult dogs is giving more calories to a pet than it needs, which is technically overfeeding it. Apart from considering a pet’s life stage in providing food, pet owners should also consider the diet required by pets with medical conditions and those with higher activity levels — working dogs will have higher energy needs than lap dogs. Pets with gastrointestinal disease will need a special diet that will not aggravate its condition.

Interchanging pet foods

Always ask your vet

Despite clear labels on pet food bags, some owners still believe that food designed for one pet can be fed to another, like feeding dog food to a cat. Simply put, dogs, cats, and exotic pets all have different nutritional needs.

The foods designated for each pet are formulated to meet each one’s distinct needs. Continuing to feed your pet food designed for a different animal will create nutritional imbalances over time.

While multi-pet households may find interchanging pet foods convenient, continuing to do so will not be in the best interests of the pets involved. That said, the occasional or isolated case should not cause any health issues.

A good veterinarian will always be a pet owner’s ally in determining what’s best for a pet. The vet will know what to look for and see the gaps that need to be filled in order to achieve good health for a furry friend. Before making any major changes, or even just to make sure everything is in order feeding-wise, pet owners should always seek their vet’s advice.

Over-treating

Jordan Walker is the lead content curator for Coops And Cages, as well as a couple of other pet related blogs. His passion for animals is only matched by his love for “attempting” to play the guitar.

Connect with him on Google+ or Twitter: @CoopsAndCages.

PETACULAR

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Rabbit rescues:

This spring, consider adopting over shopping

BY GEORGIANA HALL, SPECIAL TO PETACULAR

in daily. They are complex creatures Two weeks ago, a good friend of — both intelligent and playful. They mine passed away. He had long, can be litter-trained, spayed or silky, black fur and big eyes that neutered, and taught to respond to reminded me of shiny licorice jelly vocal commands. Though carrots are beans. He was a rabbit named a favored treat, they should by no Pepper that I had found running means be a major part of a rabbit’s around my neighborhood on a main diet. Timothy hay, followed by particularly rainy morning. leafy greens and herbs, is the most Pepper lived quite the good life for important food for these herbivores. nearly eight years, dining on organic Too often, people buy rabbits greens and herbs, high-quality rabbit pellets, and Nebraska hay. He shared in pet stores, thinking they are an “When Mike and I began volunteering for Safe Place we never expected to need their confined permanently to a small cage, appropriate gift for a small child. a pen with his rabbit pal, Hershey, services. But when we did, we knew that Beau would be cared for and loved. That it is often abandoned outdoors where Many of these pet rabbits die within also a rescue, and they truly had gave Mike a lot of peace in his last days.” of survival six months as a result of poor diet “The life of Riley,” as the saying - Kate Harvey, fiancéechances of Michael Duncanare very slim.

Shelters across the nation goes. Sadly, this lifestyle is too often and unhealthy conditions. Others house dozens of abandoned the exception — instead of the rule — suffer injuries from being handled rabbits available for adoption to a incorrectly. As they mature and for rabbits.

Pet Adoption Center Opens loving home. If you are considering hormones rage, that sweet little in Manitou These furry friends do notNew like living taking in Safe a springtime rabbit may turn into a terror: biting in hutches or small cages, despite Having served the local community for the past 17 years as a virtual nonprofit, Place forplaymate and companion, consider and chewing everything in sight. what pet-store marketing might Pets has recently achieved the enormous goal of opening its doors to the public for the very first adopting one of these complex At this point, the rabbit might face tell you. To maintain proper health, time. The Manitou Springs facility will serve as a shelter, adoption center and new home for ourand wonderful creatures. a briefand andpets tragic life.Paso If it isand notTeller counties, rabbits need a large area to exercise organization.

Assisting both people in El Safe Place is dedicated to finding

NO PLACE LIKE HOME!

Georgiana “G.G.” Hall is a licensed educator and volunteer for the House Rabbit Society, a national organization devoted to rescuing rabbits and educating the public on their welfare. Visit www.rabbit.org for more information. Hall and her husband, both physics professors, reside in Miami, Fla., during the fall and winter and in Colorado Springs during summers. loving, the forever homes for the pets of

terminally ill owners. Founded in 1996 by local hospice nurse Joanne Bonicelli our all-volunteer team has found loving homes for hundreds of bereaved pets by providing veterinary care and other quality-of-life needs.

The generous gifts received over the years combined with past GIVE! Campaigns have made it possible for Safe Place to develop new programs to aid in the adoption of its furry friends. These funds have allowed us to support the health and wellness of the often traumatized, grieving pets entering our program. Many of our animals require medical procedures or behavioral training before they can be adopted. Safe Place is dedicated to offering peace of mind to families and their pets dealing with the complexities and sorrows of terminal illness.

Complete and Our Wellness Program for Pets compassionate care to helps cover expenses related to an animal that has been surrendered us, but is still living with its owner. Our goal is to provide comfort and for assurance for both the beloved pet and theirthe owner life facing an end-of-life illness. of your pets!

Future donations will help us improve our new animal rescue facility to optimally meet our foster pets’ needs.

Monday Fridaypart 8-6 “Fostering is such -a crucial of our rescue process. We are taking someone’s wellSaturday 8-12 loved pet and placing it in a foster’s home.

The love, Closed attention Sundays and stability that fosters give to our rescued pets helps them transition Welfare, DVM toRussell their new forever home more easily,” says Sandy Thornton, Dog Intake Coordinator and Safe Place Board member.

719.282.1222

You Can Make A Difference!

Foster Volunteer Donate Adopt Pet Adoption Center 1141 Manitou Avenue Manitou Springs, CO 80829

(719) 359-0201

www.safeplacepets.org 44

With volunteers being the real heartbeat of Safe Place for Pets, we must thank our foster info@safeplacepets.org Follow us on Like us on 5470 Powers Center Point • Suite 100 and • Colorado Springsnetwork CO 80920 twitter facebook families the fantastic of 100plus hard-working, compassionate supporters that have helped us fulfill We are unable to accept animals on a “walk-in/drop-off “basis. our unique mission. “Our Safe Place for Pets volunteers are passionate about providing our clients and their pets with the best possible quality of life during most difficult time of their lives. Every adopted pet is 10 SPRING 2015 thePETACULAR someone’s best friend saved,” says Ann Davenport, President of the Board of Directors for Safe Place for Pets.

www.npahvet.com

Celebrating 15 Years in Colorado springs

Where good dogs have a great time!

Wendy Pearce Nelson had so much fun at last year’s Barks & Bling, she decided to do it again!

Join her at the 2015 Barks & Bling even from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m. on March 31, at the Hotel Elegante Conference and Event Center, 2886 S. Circle Drive. All proceeds will benefit the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, 610 Abbot Lane. Nelson, owner of Blue Fox Photography, said the 2014 inaugural event raised about $1,000 for HSPPR, and she’s hoping to raise two or three times that this year.

This year’s Barks & Bling will feature delicious treats, a full bar, vendors, and pet products from Wag ’N Wash in Colorado Springs and Gigi’s The Animal Lover’s Gift Shop, 728 Manitou Avenue in Manitou Springs. Blue Fox Photography will sponsor a photo booth, which Didi Dieterich and her dog Piper (pictured) enjoyed last year.

Tayco Screen Printing & Embroidery, 117 S. Nevada Avenue, will be on site to print photos on T-shirts. “It’s going to be a party,” Nelson said. For more information, call Blue Fox Photography at 719-636-3435. Photo courtesy of Blue Fox Photography

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est. 1999 SPRING 2015

11

PETacularPoetry A Rosebush for Annie

The Kernel

9/8/2001 – 12/23/2014 13 years, 3 months, 15 days

It sits in the corner of the back yard, On the northwest side, by the fence.

I never had anything hit me so hard and cause so much pain.

I thought my heart would break, a lump in my throat, tears in my eyes, then I broke down and cried.

Yesterday it had fourteen roses, and I held my breath, Counting all summer, I hoped for twelve.

Why do we get so attached to our pets that they become a member of the family, and their loss hurts so much?

For a while, I thought I would lose it.

The heat of the western sun, the dry Kansas wind.

In the middle of the night I wake up, and he is sitting in the middle of the room looking at me; when I reach out to touch him he disappears.

Watering faithfully and shading it from the sun with a quilt pinned To the fence helped some.

When he went outside and wanted back in, he would grab the screen door then let it slam back; it still happens, and when I hear the slam, I open it up and he is not there.

Today it had fourteen roses, and I had hoped for twelve.

That’s how many years Annie lived.

When I walk the Fountain Creek Trail, I keep looking for him to come out of the bushes and trees and walk with me. I know he is there someplace, I can almost see him.

Lying in the corner by the fence in the evening Watching for my neighbor to come home.

Waiting for her walk with Nick.

It will be a long time before I get over his passing and I will never forget him.

He was the best companion I could have asked for.

A rosebush stands for Annie It takes her watch.

Personal Request: When my time is up, please take my ashes and The Kernel’s, mix them together and scatter them along the Fountain Creek Trail.

– Written and submitted by Frankie Roland

– Written and submitted by Harold Tech

A FUN Event for Pets & Pet Parents!

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To submit your original works, please e-mail hannah.blick@gazette.com or mail to PETacular Magazine, 30 E. Pikes Peak Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80903.

PETACULAR

PET

WHERE LOVE IS FOUND

Three-year-old Maltese Pekinese Snow models an outfit created by Bobbie’s Doggie Duds. Custommade dog outfits come in a variety of sizes and patterns. Photos by Hannah Blick, PETacular

DogDuds: A labor of love for Springs woman

BY HANNAH BLICK, HANNAH.BLICK@GAZETTE.COM

Barbara “Bobbie” Barnett’s 3-yearold Maltese Pekinese Snowstorm has the ultimate rags-to-riches pet tale: from unwanted rescue dog to adored canine clothing model.

“It was love at first sight,” Bobbie said. “When she first came, I took her on a tour of the house and the yard and said ‘Look baby, all of this is yours.’” “Snow” quickly made herself at home and even inspired her owner to start a business.

“I started sewing outfits for her, and Bobbie’s Doggie Duds was born,” Bobbie said. It wasn’t long until the word got out, and Bobbie started taking special orders for dogs of all sizes from friends and family members. She now sews everything from cozy, winter pajamas to summer bathing suits and two-piece outfits for both male and female dogs, using a variety of materials and patterns.

In a spare room in her home on the south end of Colorado Springs, Bobbie runs her hobby-turnedbusiness. Snow sits contentedly on her lap, while the sewing machine whirs, turning out neon pajamas for a medium-size dog. The walls above her are lined with a spectrum of colorful thread, and yards of fabric are folded neatly in a shelf next to her desk. When she first started, Bobbie found patterns at Joann’s Fabric for less than a dollar, and bought all she could. “I designed the bathing suit, bomber hats, and a pinafore dress myself,” she said.

Each outfit has been carefully crafted, with no detail left undone.

From elastic waist bands to Velcro panties that can be removed when the pup is ready to go outside, each item is practical as well as aesthetically interesting.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

10TH ANNUAL BARKATBRIARGATE AUGUST 15, 2015 | 10AM - 2PM

This outdoor pet expo is free to the public and will feature trainers, groomers, veterinary practices, pet businesses, and businesses who want to reach pet lovers.

Vendors call 719-265-6264 to reserve your space today.

ThePromenadeShopsAtBriargate.com

PETACULAR

SPRING 2015

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fiedalist i t r ce ci ! nly g spe rings o The py do do Sp ra ra the Colo in

Celebrating 10 Year Anniversary Dog Duds: CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 • Therapy Dog Training rabbits, fish, cats, dogs — you name Snow is, of course, more than • In-home Training it,” Bobbie said. “My daughter even delighted to model Bobbie’s new helps rescue pit bulls.”

• Star Puppy Program creations, even going as far as to The creativity doesn’t stop at jump up on Bobbie’s measuring • General Obedience Classes table and pick out which she’d like canine clothing. Bobbie also builds beautiful floral arrangements, and to don for the day.

“She loves the • Serving Colorado Springs Valerie crochets. “I’ll spend all really girly ones — a dress with and Woodland Park day on the weekends working on panties and a matching bow,” Bobbie said. “This one even has a matching collar and leash.”

Bobbie’s sister, Valerie Luther, works at Wal-Mart, often taking shifts in the fabric department. “She calls me when fabric and ribbon goes on big sale and says, ‘Get down here!’” The sisters come from a big family of animal lovers. “We’ve had

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Tel: 955-6000 www.stormsallergy.com

Central • North • South • Woodland Park 14

SPRING 2015

PETACULAR

projects,” Bobbie said. It takes her about three hours to sew a typical outfit and only one hour to finish onesie pajamas.

Bobbie wants to grow her business, with an Etsy shop in the works. If you would like to place a custom order, contact Bobbie’s Doggie Duds at 719-466-9144.

TopDog BUSINESS DIRECTORY Thank you for supporting these pet-loving businesses in our community. Look for these special offers and store fronts and mention you saw them in PETacular.

Treat Your Furry Friend

at

Bellissima Your favorite boutique now carries the Harry Barker line of dog toys and pet accessories.

104 N. Tejon • Downtown • 632-5009

ADOPT • FOSTER • TRAIN 20 Mount View Lane, Suites B & C

719-264-6460

Call for information about the wide range of traning classes offered.

www.HaveANiceDog.org info.abrt@gmail.com

To see your business spotlighted in the Top Dog Business Directory, please contact Cathy Tapia at 719-636-0130 or cathy.tapia@gazette.com or talk to your advertising account executive.

Bellissima owner Teresa Farmer and Vice President Magee

Specializing

PET SITTERS & ANIMAL CARE

in the care of older animals and those with special needs!

The Zoo Keepers, LLC • Dog Walking Service Available (ask about our packages) • Pet sitting (daily visits or overnight) • Potty/play breaks & dog walks • Medication & Insulin visits • Pregnancy watch visits • Animal Taxi to the vet, groomer, or day care center • Field trips to the park • Care for all house & barn pets • Reptiles, Avian & small animal care

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We love all animals and are happy to care for any member of your zoo.

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PETACULAR