Atlanta pet summer 2017 25 by Pet Pages Atlanta

Vol. 2 Issue 6 Summer 2017

Atlantaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pet Life Style Magazine AtlantaPetLife.com

WAYS a Fur Baby Will CHANGE Your LIFE

e i d Ad

Could My CAT have

ar t PetSmy of

PuppYear The

PTSD? Restaurant etiquette

+Stories of Fur-Therapy

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Feature Articles

Columns

7 Ways a Fur Baby Will Change Your Life

Sparrow Marcioni

Meeting Wallace

Restaurant Petiquette

Pet Friendly Outings from Poochtree.com 14 Greyhounds Bring Fast Recovery

Could My Cat Have PTSD? Events

Summer 2017 Events Reader Summited

11 18

Thank You Polar

Michael D. Friedlander, DVM Make Every Moment Cat

PaWty Animals

Spring Events Remembered

Veterinary Referral Surgery Practice

Neurological Examinations for Patients Who Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Talk

Featured Businesses

Animal law

Service Animals & Emotional Support Animals

Paws Whiskers & Wags Gives Pet Owners Peace of Mind When Saying Good Bye to Pets Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe This Summer

Fish Keeping

Keeping a Stress-Free Aquarium Lorrie L Leickel-Koch

Atlanta Dog Spa Luxury Spa Experience For Dogs

To Shave or Not To Shave?

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Advertising/Marketing/Social Media Services Bill Garst | 941.702.0155 atlantapetlifebg@gmail.com Advertising North Georgia Mountains Jackie Treneer | 706.878.8887 Graphics and Layout Stacy Wright | atlpetlife@gmail.com June- August 2017, Vol. 2, No. 6 Atlanta Pet Life (ISSN 2472-3290), Subscriptions: $24.99 (U.S.A.) annually to Pet Pages Atlanta. To subscribe, including change of address, visit AtlantaPetLife.com or write 5140 Chippewa Ct., Cumming, GA 30040, Call: 770888-9300. Attention Retailers: Sell Atlanta Pet Life in your store. Call 770-888-9300 for more information. Send your comments, questions, or concerns to Stacy Wright, Atlanta Pet Life 5140 Chippewa Ct., Cumming, GA 30040 or atlantapetlife@gmail.com All submissions become the property of Mercury Gold Studio, LLC and cannot be returned to the sender. Submissions chosen for publication may be edited for length or clarity, and do not re[resent the opinions of the publisher or the staff . Copyright ©2017 Atlanta Pet Life by Mercury Gold Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Printed in the U.S.A. Atlanta Pet Life (ISSN 2472-3290) is published four times a year, in March, June, September, December by Mercury Gold Studio, LLC. Executive, publishing, editorial and advertising offices: 5140 Chippewa Ct., Cumming, GA 30040, (770) 888-9300. POSTMASTER: Send all remittances, subscriptions and address changes to Atlanta Pet Life, 5140 Chippewa Ct., Cumming, GA 30040 Single copies $5.99 in U.S.A. Responsibility for advertised products lies with the advertisers. Atlanta Pet Life will not knowingly publish fraudulent materials and is not liable for any damages arising from the purchase or use of any products. If you have any consumer complaints concerning goods purchased from our advertisers, please send us written notification to aid our screening process . Copyright ©2017 Atlanta Pet Life by Mercury Gold Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Printed in the U.S.A. Responsibility for advertised products lies with the advertisers. Atlanta Pet Life will not knowingly publish fraudulent materials and is not liable for any damages arising from the purchase or use of any products. If you have any consumer complaints concerning goods purchased from our advertisers, please send us written notification to aid our screening process.

Atlanta Pet Life

kay, Summer fun is here. Welcome Addie! We are so pleased to have her as our beautiful cover girl. See her story on page 5. Be sure and snoop out where the fun is happening inside the Atlanta pet scene in our PaWty Animals column and find additional summer events on-line at PetPagesAtlanta.com This issue features therapy, they help us and we help them. Remember the days ahead are hot, be a good pet parent and keep your loved ones cool. Carry extra water and a bowl, avoid the hot asphalt, and Don’t leave them in the car!! As four pawed members of this household, we wish you a safe and wonderful summer! The Editors - Tango, Lilly, Hallie and Blue Kitty Let us hear from you: atlantapetlife@gmail.com Join the Atlanta Pet Life Community Facebook: AtlantaPetLife, Instagram: #Atlantapetlife, Twitter: @AtlantaPetLife Also visit: PetPagesAtlanta.com

Contributors:

Photo credits:

April Rose Claudine Wilkins and Jessica Rock David Green Edna Holt Jill Narak, DVM, MS, DACVIM Lorrie L Leickel-Koch Lucy, Holly & Kathi Welch Michael D. Friedlander, DVM Michelle Bourg Nicole Essawy Niko Berry Noa Davidson Paws Whikers & Wags Sparrow Marcioni

Front cover image by

Natalia Kacala with Hot Photo Dog, IG@hot_photo_dog & fb.com/hotphotodog Model: Sheppish Addie

Paws Whisker & Wags, Angels Among Us “The Love of Paws Gala:

Tracey Luttgens of Heart Spot Pet & Family Portraits #heartspot

Meeting Wallace

Vicki Cox Furtografie Altanta victoriacoxphoto.com, furtografieatlanta.com Some images throughout this magazine are sourced from freepik.com

Cover

Friends of Addie Boarding Daycare Nursery For Puppies Training Grooming Petsitting Melony Phillips, CPDT-KA Certified Professional Dog Trainer Licensed Presenter for Dogs & Storks & Dogs & Toddlers Victoria Stilwell Positively Dog Trainer, VSPDT Pet Professional Guild Member The Dog Gurus, Charter Member APDT Member

www.Delightful-Dog.com 4958 Lower Roswell Rd. Marietta

678-273-3700

Addie is a one year old sheepadoodle living in Sandy Springs, GA. She is half Old English sheepdog, half poodle, and all shaggy chic! Addie is the Puppy of the Year for “PetSmart”. She loves to meet new people and pups, explore pet-friendly Atlanta shops and restaurants, and herd her sheep – errr…her goldendoodle fur-brother, Oliver. Her hobbies include having her photos taken, bringing smiles to faces, and taking on Atlanta with Mom and Dad. Cover Photo and above photo By: Natalia Kacala with Hot Photo Dog, IG@hot_photo_dog

Official Groomer for Addie

Village Animal Clinic’s commitment is to provide excellent quality, compassionate care, and life -long health for your pet. We look forward to welcoming you and your four legged friends to our animal family. We have an exceptional staff of talented doctors and support technicians with particular interests in all aspects of animal care. Our family-oriented staff is committed to providing you with state of the art veterinary care while maintaining an atmosphere of respect, support,and continued education. We offer a complete range of veterinary services, including vaccinations, routine, major, and emergency medical, surgical, and dental services.

Leslee S. Winter, D.V.M and Kirk Pumphrey, D.V.M

770.393.8936 Atlanta Pet Life

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7 Ways a Fur Baby Will Change Your Life You smile more. Admit it. The minute your fur baby runs to you, your heart is happy, you are smiling and you know that precious thing has a way to secure your love fur-ever. I experience this every day with LolaJae. Her little tail is wagging non-stop until we embrace, and then come all the kisses. Who can resist all that love and attention?

You do things you never thought you would. You know, things like sleeping in your bed, getting on the furniture, prancing through the house with muddy paws…. Wait—I don’t know about the muddy paws, but there’s the waking you up in the middle of the night with licks to your face. I mean who could say no to that sweet baby?

You read many stories of how pets have changed their owner’s lives. Not only will there be a happier version of you, you will have the most loyal and loving best friend for life. Here are a few other perks of how having a fur baby will change your life forever. You stay in a little more.

You start to feel bad when you must leave home. The way your pup looks at you melts your heart and you just want to take them everywhere—especially if you work all day. Can you imagine what it’s like to sit at home all day without your loving owner there to pet and love you whenever you want? Of course, your baby will love you no matter what, and when you do come home, their excitement is always worth it.

You learn to get over things quickly. Like anything in life, you can’t stay mad angry fur-ever. It’s not healthy and it’s rather stressful. And with a cute fur baby, you learn to forgive and forget quickly. Get mad, clean up, hug, forgive, shower with kisses and treats. Rinse and repeat.

You move more. According to Shape Up America, there are about 3,000 steps in 1.5 miles. A 1.5-mile walk takes about 30 minutes. So in just a half hour, you can take your dog for a nice walk (that they will love) and you can achieve 30 percent of the 10,000-step goal that has been considered the minimum standard for a healthy lifestyle. I know taking my dog for a walk is one of my favorite things to do.

You fall in love over and over again. From the moment I saw my little LolaJae’s adorable face and big brown eyes, I fell in love with her. She shows me the most unconditional love and I love her to the moon and back. What can I say? But it’s just another day in the life of LolaJae. Written by April Rose and approved by LolaJae

Your fur baby has a voice. It’s usually not a flattering voice. “More than likely it’s a little too loud or just a bit piercing.” . People never make their dogs out to be an intellectual. Even though, as stated above, they pretty much play us like a puppet master. You are reading this in your dog’s voice right now, aren’t you? Atlanta Pet Life

There’s a comforting power in the presence of a pet that sometimes fades into the background of our lives, which really cannot be overstated. I was reminded of this as I interviewed Debbie Kohlbrener, a clinical therapist in the Atlanta area, and listened to stories about her work incorporating therapy animals into her practice. Debbie and her animal partner, an English buttercream retriever named Wallace, are examples of how this bond can be a source not only of comfort, but also of therapeutic good for those in pain.

Meeting Wallace Written by Niko Berry Photos by Vicki Cox, Furtografie Atlanta furtografieatlanta.com

Atlanta Pet Life

Therapy

dds are, if you are reading this magazine you already have some idea of how valuable the bond between people and our animal companions, especially our canine friends, can be. Basically everybody who’s owned a dog can probably tell you about a time when their life was gloomy and their animal companion knew just from the way they acted. Maybe it was confused, maybe it tried to lick their face, or maybe it just rested its head in their lap - it knew something was up. If you’ve ever experienced this, you’re not imagining things. “Dogs know when something is wrong with you” Debbie explains. “The science backs it up.” Researchers at Goldsmith’s College in London found that dogs not only feel empathy for the distress of their owners, they are actively distressed by their owners’ unhappiness. Dogs often tend to actively try to assist and comfort their companions when they are distressed. In some studies, dogs would ignore their own comfort to try to aid their owners. Perhaps unsurprisingly for people who have experienced it, this interaction also helps people who are in distress. Beyond just the value of a loving presence in a trying moment, being around an animal while you are sad can actively change your brain chemistry. A study in the journal Hormones and Behavior charts how interaction with friendly dogs can increase a person’s oxytocin, the brain chemical associated with comfort, trust and relaxation. This is important because the core of the client-therapist relationship is one of implicit trust, and that isn’t something that can flourish overnight, especially for people who have been hurt in the past. The value of a trustworthy therapeutic assistant that can even biologically prompt a person to be more open and relaxed cannot be overstated.

As a gentle, sensitive ball of fluff, some of the best work Wallace does is in helping children with phobias... Debbie and Wallace are working to leverage the power of this bond of empathy to do the most good they can for people suffering from anxiety, depression and behavioral disorders stemming from past traumas. “Wallace and I specialize in children who have problems that are resistant to other treatments,” Debbie explains as Wallace gnaws gently on a tennis ball. “Wallace is here to help them feel more comfortable, to be relaxed, and to feel safe, especially if we are having a session where they are talking about difficult or even traumatic things. That little bit of help getting past any feelings of shame, or fear or hesitancy that they have can really accelerate the process of recovery and help them grow and heal faster.” As a gentle, sensitive ball of fluff, some of the best work Wallace does is in helping children with phobias of animals overcome their fears through extremely gentle exposure, or response therapy. An intuitive master of the procedure, Wallace seems to know just how close a client is comfortable with him being at any given time. “We wait for the client to be ready for Wallace to come into the room and then we let him in,” Debbie says. “When he does, he goes to the other side of the room and waits for them to feel more comfortable around him and to want to interact with him more.”

Not simply a lap dog by any means, Wallace also helps Debbie and her clients with more physical exercises too. “We incorporate yoga into our sessions for some children who are dealing with anxiety. It helps them mind their breathing and balance,” Debbie says. “Wallace even joins in on it. He will hop on the floor and do his best to either drop to the ground, sit, or lie with us.” Naturally, I asked to see pictures of his yoga practice, which Debbie readily provides; his sun salutations are lacking but his down dog is flawless.

Sympathy can go both ways, and before he joined the Kohlbrener household, Wallace had a life that it is easy to feel sympathetic for. “One of the things that really helps the kids open up is when I tell them the story about how Wallace came into our family.” Debbie gives Wallace a good pet before she continues with the story. “Wallace was left tied out in a yard without food, water or care for a long time. We don’t know for sure, but there was a real possibility that he was physically abused as well. When we adopted him, he was underweight, sick, and had worms. We were able to help him though and he was able to recover into the extremely friendly, caring, helpful dog that he is today. “It gives them an avenue to begin talking about how these traumas can happen in the world, it lets them know that they aren’t alone and takes away some of the shame of what they’ve gone through,” she continues. “It also lets them project onto Wallace and talk about how they feel about their own traumas by talking about how he must have felt. It helps them to talk about things that they otherwise might have just bottled up.” The connection between people and their canine companions can be a powerful tool for therapy, and Debbie and Wallace are showing how it can be used to help the people that need it most. “I’ll always remember one of the first sessions I brought Wallace along for.” Debbie begins as Wallace set his head into my lap. “The girl I was working with was very guarded and was hesitant to talk about her feelings and the things she had gone through. When I brought Wallace into the room, he just sat with his head in her lap and she just started to open up. It’s been a great experience for me too just getting to see how animals work to build these connections, bring out these emotions and show us just how much more we can do to help these kids to grow and recover.” Atlanta Pet Life

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Atlanta Pet Life

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Therapy

Could My Cat Have

PTSD ?

Contributed by Sparrow Marcioni

hile working with traumatized cats over the years, it has become evident that it is not just humans who can suffer from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). According to the National Institute of Mental Health, PTSD is defined as “an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened.” PTSD is not a disease; it’s a behavioral change that can be corrected once a pet has been properly diagnosed. It’s more difficult to diagnose in your pet because they can’t tell you if they are having nightmares or recurring visions of a past experience, but the symptoms still appear the same. Many cats rescued from dire situations experience trauma from their experiences, but when PTSD symptoms manifest, it is necessary to seek professional help for your pet. Many of these cases require a combination of medication and drug therapy (clomipramine, fluoxetine and amitriptyline are most commonly used) but the outcomes are very promising. Only a professional behaviorist can diagnose PTSD, but recovery from trauma can be assisted by several therapies and treatments that are not harmful to try.

If you suspect your cat is suffering from a trauma, establishing a calm safe environment for them is critical. This can include pheromone or essential oil therapy in diffusers and playing calming music to muffle loud noises to create a peaceful atmosphere. If your kitty is fearful of other cats or animals, his or her safe place should be private. However, cats learn very quickly when observing the behavior of other cats. If they see another cat playing and being affectionate with you, it can make a very positive impression on them.

Keeping your cat active through interaction with you using toys and games such as those that involve removing food from a puzzle can help to heal and divert the focus from a traumatic memory or experience—think of it as creating new memories to take the place of those that caused fear. Remember that this passive therapy will require patience and becoming impatient or getting upset with your kitty can cause serious setbacks. The use of supplements such as Omega 3 fatty acids, L-theanine and melatonin are also known to help relieve stress, as does stretching and scratching so be sure to provide some strong scratching posts. Some behaviorists even recommend treatments such as acupuncture, but weigh the benefits of any treatment against the potential stress of traveling to a therapist. At our center, La Maison du Chat, we also use the line of Jackson Galaxy Spirit Essences, in particular “Safe Spaces” and Trauma Free” for fearful or traumatized kitties. These are all- natural floral and herbal remedies that are designed specifically to help with various personality and health issues. We have also deployed a small device called a Betar Relaxation box in each of the areas of the house. These devices emit a tone that can only be heard by the cats but mimic the sound at which the earth vibrates, contributing to a calm relaxed environment. We also utilize the healing arts of Reiki to accelerate healing from both physical and emotional injury. In brief, if you suspect your cat is experiencing PTSD, you will want to locate a professional behaviorist in your area, but you can begin therapy by applying some of the suggestions in this article that have been very successful for us.

Here are some of the symptoms that are frequently observed in traumatized cats suffering from PTSD: Uncharacteristic aggressiveness Fearfulness, trembling Decreased appetite and weight loss Reduced interest in playing or interacting with other pets, people or both Hypervigilance (an intense, “on guard” awareness of surroundings) A tendency to be easily startled Urinating or defecating inappropriately Increased neediness or attachment Excessive meowing Destructive behavior Extreme escape behavior to avoid a stressor (for example, climbing a wall to attempt to flee during a thunderstorm) Sudden changes in temperament Hiding for no reason Fear of being alone Sleep disturbances Avoidance of people, places, or things associated with a traumatic event

Sparrow Marcioni is the Chief Behaviorist at La Maison du Chat, a Reiki practitioner and founder of CatRangers Cat Rescue. She is available for consultation by emailing sparrow@ catrangers.org or by calling 770-831-5513. Atlanta Pet Life

RestaurantP etiquette Contriburted by Noa Davidson poochtree.com

Patio season is upon us, which means it is the perfect time to review some tips and tricks for dining out with your dog! Check to see if the restaurant is dog-friendly

www.Poochtree.com was born to give dog owners one place to find all the dog-friendly restaurants, shops, and events in the Atlanta area. To further help you pick the right restaurant for you and your pooch, the site provides the pet policy for each establishment so you know beforehand if it is the right fit. Poochtree does the research so there’s no risk you and your bestie being be forced to move tables or leave! Know Your Dog’s Temperament

It is important to be honest with yourself about your dog’s temperament. Before taking your dog to a restaurant, think about how they react to various stimuli. Is your dog a barker? Does your dog respond well to strangers or kids? Will they be able to remain calm for the duration of the meal? Is your dog responsive to basic commands like sit, lay down, come, and stay? Pooches, like people, also have their off days. While your dog may be the perfect paw-tron while dining at home, the unfamiliarity of dining out at a restaurant may cause some anxiety. Bring along some of your pup’s favorite treats or toys for them to focus on during your meal. If your dog is not responding to commands and being disruptive, try taking them on a quick walk to give them a reset. If they are not reacting to your efforts and are clearly disturbing other guests, ask for your check and food to-go immediately. Though it may not be the dining experience you had hoped for with your pooch, it is an act that is greatly appreciated by those around you and likely by your dog as well! 12

Atlanta Pet Life

Start Small

It may help to ease your dog into dining out in public. Start by sitting outside at a neighborhood coffee shop or eating at picnic table in the park. These are commitment-free ways to see how your pooch might behave Lucky’s Burger & Brew for extended periods of time in distracting environments that you can easily leave if your pup becomes agitated. You can also try bringing Meal Prep…For Your Pooch a bone or a familiar non-squeaky Your dog will probably toy to keep your dog occupied. (read: definitely) give you those Once you feel they may be ready irresistible puppy dog eyes begto sit for a full meal, ease into it by ging you for a bite of your meal. bringing another human along. To cut down on the inevitable Dining out with your dog is not and often distracting begging, just about them; as an owner, you feed your pooch before heading have to be able to anticipate your out or bring your dog’s food dog’s behavior and needs in a pub- along with you (with their own lic setting. bowl, of course).

Table Manners

While, your pooch may want to greet everyone, not everyone may want to meet your pooch. It is important to maintain control of your dog’s leash at all times throughout the meal, especially when walking to and from your table. Try to pick a table in a corner or along the outer edges of the patio to ensure you do not obstruct the flow of traffic and are clear of the server’s pathway. Humans should have good table manners and tip their servers well if they are extra friendly to their dogs.

While dining with your dog may seem stressful and intimidating at first, these tips should help both you and your pup have the best experience possible. BYOB Before you get to the Remember to always be restaurant, it is also smart to Bring your own bowl! Not courteous to the restaurant get as much of your pooch’s all restaurants have water bowls employees and other diners, energy out as you can. If you on hand, and a makeshift to-go and do all that you can to aren’t walking your dog to the container water bowl will usurestaurant, or if it’s a very short ensure that your pet is calm, ally get pawed over within a few comfortable, and well-bewalk, take a stroll through a minutes. While it is a violation haved so that he or she will of health codes for restaurants to park or play fetch beforehand. During this time, they can also continue to be welcome to serve water to dogs in any vessel relieve themselves and avoid any dine out with you in the used for serving food, bringing future. your own bowl will further ensure accidents at the restaurant. that their water is fresh and clean. Furthermore, it can make other patrons or the restaurant staff uncomfortable to see dog owners feeding their pet with the restaurant’s glassware, plates, or utensils. This sort of discomfort can add to the resistance of restaurants allowing dogs in their establishments. Planning ahead for your dog will make for a more positive dining experience for all involved.

Everything you need to keep them ready for the next adventure.

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Atlanta Pet Life

Pet Friendly

Out to Lunch

Contriburted by Noa Davidson poochtree.com

Eventide Brewing

Photo Credit: Noa Davidson A brewery is also a great place to ease into dining out with your dog. Eventide Brewing (pronounced Even-Tide) offers tours and tastings Thursday through Sunday at their Grant Park brewhouse. One of the best times to go is Sunday Funday, where they spice things with Micheladas and Beermosas starting at noon. They also host a Social Night with Intown Healthy Hound the second Thursday of each month, where they give 10 percent of their sales to benefit a neighborhood Dog Park.

Photo Credit: Jena db Photography Ever wonder where all the pups on the Beltline are going? Well, Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall is your answer! While you recline in an Adirondack chair with a campfire cocktail or beer from a vintage camper, your pooch will be soaking up all the attention in “The Grove.” For hungry campers, the upper patio is full service and has everything from a trail snacks to family-style Base-camp platters.

Avalon

Cooks & Soldiers

Photo Credit: Noa Davidson Alpharetta’s newest development is a mecca of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Take your pooch to the dog park located behind Crate & Barrel before heading to one of the many dog-friendly restaurants. Sip on a glass of wine with your pooch at CRU Food & Wine Bar, split a burger from Bocado, or lounge outside at Barleygarden Kitchen. Check out Poochtree.com for a full listing of the dog-friendly restaurants and shops in Avalon. 14

Atlanta Pet Life

Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall

Photo Credit: Mala Morjaria One bite in at Cooks and Soldiers and you will feel like you and your pooch have been transported to Spanish Basque Country. Make a meal out of Basque tapas called pinxtos or opt for the big-gun and order something from the wood fire grill, asador! If you love Cooks & Soldiers, check out their dog-friendly sister restaurants, Double Zero in Emory Village and Iberian Pig in Decatur.

Henry’s Midtown Tavern

Photo Credit: Caren West Anyone who walks onto Henry’s massive patio without a dog in their party feels pretty out of place, which makes sense because this vibrant restaurant in the heart of Midtown was named after the owner Maureen Kalmanson’s dog. Stop in for their weeknight specials or weekend brunch Check out our Wall of Dog, and nominate your “best friend” to be added on the wall.

Gusto!

Photo Credit: Noa Davidson Gusto! is the perfect place to stop for a quick and healthy meal when running around town with your pooch. Choose salad, rice, or a wrap as your base, then select a protein and one of their toppings and you are ready to roll. Sit at the high tops outside at the South Buckhead Location or head down Ponce De Leon and hang out in their large fenced in patio where you can snap some sots of your pooch in front of their geometric mural.

HHveyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide to Canine Fine Dining PRESENTED BY:

Harvey is a 3 year old Pit Bull from Memphis, TN and a loyal customer of Hollywood Feed

1. Get a Kurgo Quantum Leash. You'll need it to keep your human by your side. ($24.99) 2. BYOB! Bring your own bowl! Keeping hydrated is a must so bring your own Kurgo Collaps A Bowl! ($9.99) 3. You'll need to refuel so bring Hollywood Feed Fresh Bakery Treats to snack on! ($12.99) 4. Look good on the town in a brand new collar and always stylish Huxley & Kent Bowtie. ($5.99 - 7.99) Hux 5. Your human should always have a Kurgo Jogging Belt to keep your treats and water secure. ($29.99) 3 LOCATIONS IN ATLANTA & MORE COMING SOON

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Greyhounds Bring

Fast

Recovery

Contributed by Eda Holt

It’s no secret that former racing greyhounds make wonderful companions and pets. Since 1998, Southeastern Greyhound Adoption (SEGA) has been helping these magnificent athletes make the transition from a working environment to beloved family member. SEGA has placed over 2,000 greyhounds in loving, permanent homes. While greyhounds do enjoy napping quite a bit, most owners find their greyhounds like to be active at times as well. These amazing dogs participate in agility, obedience, Noseworks, amateur racing and lure coursing. In addition to their phenomenal athleticism, many greyhounds enjoy the social aspects of promotional events (often referred to as meet and greets) where they help educate the public about greyhound adoption. SEGA adopters and their greyhound participate in a variety of monthly events such as the Marietta Farmer’s Market and special festivals all around the Atlanta area. In addition, some greyhounds have temperaments suitable for pet therapy. Many greyhound adopters are surprised at the impact their dogs have on others and how the greyhounds to know just what to do to lift someone’s spirits or make a connection with a person. There are some misconceptions about greyhounds and many people have never met one up close. The driven, competitive athlete they may have seen at the track has a softer, gentler side that people cannot help but feel and notice. Their soulful eyes and elegant presence bring a calming influence wherever they are. SEGA adopters participate in various forms of pet therapy throughout Metro Atlanta and the surrounding areas. Greyhounds visit libraries where they help children become more comfortable with reading. They help college students reduce stress and cope with finals by visiting them at university campuses. Greyhounds also visit assisted living facilities, memory care locations and nursing homes to bring cheer to senior citizens, many of whom have fond memories of their dogs but are no longer able to have pets of their own. They comfort weary and stressed travelers at Atlanta’s Hartsfield 16

Atlanta Pet Life

Therapy International Airport and spread joy to special needs children and adults. Perhaps one of the most rewarding pet therapy experiences is visiting a children’s hospital. SEGA has the privilege of bringing some of our greyhounds to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta on Clifton Road each month for a visit. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and are encouraged to complete the hospital’s volunteer program if they attend regularly. Greyhounds need to be comfortable with slick floors, wheel chairs, wagons, IV poles and of course, children of all ages. Each visit is unique and volunteers and the greyhounds interact with patients, parents and other family members, hospital staff and hospital volunteers. Sometimes the opportunity starts in the parking deck before the official visit even begins. One volunteer shared an experience that happened on one of her first visits: a man approached as she neared the elevator in the parking garage. He stopped and asked where the dogs would be and that he needed to call his wife. Their infant son was in open-heart surgery and he said his wife needed to come spend time with the greyhounds to help her relax. Although greyhounds don’t have medical knowledge, sometimes they appear to have an ability to help heal those who are hurting. Another volunteer talked about a time a patient was waiting to go home. The child needed to be off pain medication before they could be released. The child had been complaining of pain and indicated they still needed the relief. The family brought him down to visit the greyhounds. Toward the end of the visit, the mother approached our volunteer with tears in her eyes. She shared that for the first time in days her child was smiling and no longer in pain. The volunteer was told on the next visit that the child was indeed able to go home the day after the greyhound encounter. One volunteer who had just turned 18 said he wanted to start visiting the hospital but did not know what to say. The advice he received was this: you don’t have to say anything; the dogs will know what to do. Truer words were never spoken. Somehow, they just know.

Atlanta Pet Life

Events

5th Annual Doggie Dash 5K Animal Law Enforcement Training June 3, 8 p.m., George Pierce Park, 55

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June 4, 7:30p.m. The Pavilion at Brook Run Park 4770 N Peachtree Rd, Dunwoody: Angels Among Us Pet Rescue’s Second annual The Fast and the Furriest 5K, presented by Peachtree Corners Animal Clinic - a 5K race, 5K walk and festival for athletes, beginners and kids alike that raises money to save lives. A Peachtree Road Race qualifier; over 50 awards available to top finishers. Friendly, healthy and socialized dogs are welcome to run or walk the course. Included for each competitor is a custom race T-shirt (guaranteed if registered by May 27), a goody bag with treats for both owners and dogs and post-race snacks. Register at angelsrescue.org/5k

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Atlanta Pet Life

Buford Hwy NE, Suwanee: Fifth Annual Doggie Dash to raise funds for the Rescue Ranch. Runners of all levels and walkers are invited to spend a great morning running, jogging, or walking along a beautiful scenic trail for a great cause. All leashed, friendly and vaccinated runners and walkers with four legs with 4 legs are welcome to attend.

Southern Gentleman Pet Soiree June 7, 6 p.m. The Shoppes at Buckhead 3035 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta: This fun patio party will raise money for Good Mews and PAWS Atlanta. The event will be held at Southern Gentleman and Gypsy Kitchen at the Shoppes of Buckhead Atlanta. Ticket donations include one complimentary drink, light bites, live entertainment and a silent auction. Help us raise more money by staying for dinner and receive a 10% discount on your food order. No dogs or cats please. $25 advance tickets available at tiny.url. com/passionforpaws

Charity Horse Show June 11, 9 a.m., Wills Equestrian Park, 11915 Wills Rd., Alpharetta. Hunter and Western classes. All proceeds benefit the 130 rescued animals of savethehorses. com

June 14, 9 a.m. Sudie Fulford Center at East Georgia College, 131 College Circle Swainsboro, GA. FREE Conference will feature: Animal Law Updates, Dog Fighting, Proper Documents of Animal Cruelty Cases, Backyard Breeding and Puppy Mills. Open to Prosecutors, Law Enforcement, Animal Control, Veterinarians, other Animal Law professionals and the public. Instructors for this Training: Claudine Wilkins and Jessica Rock with Animal Law Source. Visit Animal Law Source at http://animallawsource.org/. Kevin Hearst, Lead Field Supervisor and Chief Cruelty Investigator, DeKalb County Animal Services & Enforcement.

Ride for the Horses Motorcycle Event June 17, 9 a.m., Buffalo’s Café 1175 Buford Hwy Suite 100, Cumming: All motorcycles welcome for a 1 ½ -hour ride benefiting savethehorses.org (Horse Rescue Relief & Retirement Fund), a 501c3 charity. Breakfast at Buffalo’s Cafe: a portion of meal price will be donated to the rescue. Also: 50/50 Raffle, door prizes, food, and beverage, live entertainment. $25 for riders, $15 for passengers. Registration: 9 a.m., kickstands up 10 a.m. For more information email: motorcycle@savethehorses.org

Polo for Pets Events June 17, 11 a.m., The Atlanta Regional Polo Center 4563 Polo Ln, Atlanta: Benefiting A.L.L., a charity that works to stop domestic violence and animal cruelty. Leashed pets welcomed for a day of entertainment, canine couture, dog agility exhibitions, contests for best dressed and best trick. Prizes, gift basket raffles throughout the day. Vendor and sponsorships available. $20 per person ponyupforacause.org

LifeLine Animal Project’s DeKalb County Animal Services shelter Clear the Shelter Event June 17, Clear the Shelter event with fun activities for the whole family. More details to come. DekalbAnimalServices. com or LifeLineAnimal.org

Doxie Races June 24, 9 a.m., Jim R. Miller Park, Callaway Rd SW, Marietta: Admission $5 at the door ; events $10.00 per dog per event (Please register before race day) Georgia Dachshund Races and more; rain or shine (events held indoors; event is air-conditioned and handicap accessible). Raffles, food, family fun, timed obstacle course, contests for costume, size and age, fastest nose contest and best coat, doggie talent show, doggie weddings. Four-legged spectators and cheerleaders welcomed. REGISTER ON LINE: georgiadachshundraces.com

Ahimsa House 6th Annual Walk, Wag n’ Run Aug 26, 7:30 a.m., Lenox Park, Brookhaven: $30 early bird - Pace Your Pet at the Ahimsa House Annual 5K Run and 1K Fun Run. Participants are encouraged to bring their dogs for these runs to benefit the animal and human victims of domestic violence. Ahimsa House Atlanta is Georgia’s first and only nonprofit organization solely dedicated to helping the human and animal victims of domestic violence reach safety together. www.ahimsahouse.org Crisis line: 404-452-6248

Best Friends Animal Society’s annual Strut Your Mutt September 23rd BrookRun Park, the most fun you can have helping to save the lives of homeless dogs and cats in Atlanta! strutyourmutt.org

Animal Law & Enforcement Animal Shelter Symposium

More Summer Pet-Friendly Activities to look out for

Problem Solved!

Matilda’s Music Series 377 S. Main St., Alpharetta: Matilda’s hosts outdoor concerts all summer long: matildasmusicvenue.com/music

“Clear the Shelter” Adoption Event throughout June, 845 Camp Rd Decatur GA, LifeLine Animal Project’s Dekalb County Animal Service is getting a new location! They will be waiving fees on all dogs and cats at the current shelter., The fee-waived adoptions include the pet’s spay/neuter, microchip and vaccines for no cost! So come by and adopt a pet today!

Splish Splash Doggie Bash Look forward to the end of summer when Piedmont Park opens the largest public pool in Atlanta to the dogs. Date TBA. piedmontpark.org

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Pours for Pets Summer Series Tour these local breweries during the Pour for Pet Summer Series; a portion of the merchandise and raffle sales proceeds will go to support three local animal rescues. Wild Heaven Brewery, June 15 Raising money for Best Friends Animal Society, (pet friendly) Abby of the Holy Goats, July 8 Raising money for Angels Among Us Pet Rescue Second Self Brewery, August 12 Raising money for FurKids, (pet friendly)

Sept. 20, Time TBA, State Bar of Georgia, June 3, 8 p.m., George Pierce Park, 55 104 Marietta St NW #100, Atlanta Buford Hwy NE, Suwanee: Education on Animal Law (Enforcement & Prosecution), Animal Sheltering, Confirm dates Rescue and Animal Care/Medicine will be presented along with best practices and times. for handling all types of cases. Several tracks will be offered to fit profession or interest. The importance of collaborating Post Your Pet Event and networking for successful results is the goal. Animallawsource.org PetPagesAtlanta.

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Atlanta Pet Life

Reader Submited

Thank You Polar My name is Poopak. I am the only child in my family. I am married and I have a 13 -year -old son. My husband , son and I love animals, but we had never had any. In April 2016 we went to Chattanooga TN, for the weekend, and saw this wonderful dog, but he was skin and bone at 84 pounds. My friend had gotten him from a shelter but no one wanted him and he probably would have had no more chances at the shelter. He had

Atlanta Pet Life

been adopted twice and returned to the shelter both times. He was tiny, sad, shy, dirty, and had long nails. I felt so bad for him. I fed him some chicken and he was in love with me. I brought him to Atlanta and bathed him, groomed him, filed his nails, and fed him. We decided to adopt him. His name was Khan but we changed it to Polar, and he loves it. My mom, who suffered from dementia, loved him as well. She would pet him all day, and when she would try to stand up to walk Polar would bark, to warn her that she was at risk of falling. My mother passed on September 2016. My mom was so close to me and I loved her dearly. I have no siblings, so she lived with me and I took care of her till the very end. My son and I were very attached to her. After my mom passed I was depressed and I was so sad; Polar gave me the energy to go and take him to the park and walk every day morning and afternoon. I would have ended up in a psychiatric hospital without Polar. This dog saved my life and my family. In fact I did not rescue him, Polar rescued me. He give me motivation and energy to exercise, walk, and be happy and live for my son, my husband and myself. I love my Polar as much as my own child. He is so sweet and he is amazing. I take him two times a week to work; I work part time in memory care helping residents with dementia and like my mother they love Polar. We have certified Polar as a therapy dog. Without Polar I would not be here; I would not be who I am now. Anyone who hears my story they has tears in their eyes. Every time I talk about how Polar has changed our lives, it makes me cry too. Now Polar is over 120 lb, very happy, spoiled, and has unconditional love. Thank you Polar. Love you: Poopak, Arta, and Sean"

Vets Talk

Make

Moment All Cat Hospital Since 2006

Contributed by Michael D. Friedlander, DVM I have this strange habit most mornings. I get up quite early, make my coffee, and sit in silence with the lights out, sipping and reflecting on the day ahead. It’s a time to begin my day with gratitude, positivity and focus, looking ahead to how I might consider approaching the duties and priorities ahead of me, and to how I might end my day. I do not quite know when it all really became my routine, but I miss it when I am running late or there is an early emergency at the practice. I cannot recall any instance of my morning ritual without a cat at my side, even if I cannot take my usual length of quiet time. According to a leading expert at the Minnesota Stroke Institute, the list of diseases that appear to improve, stabilize or both from the presence of pets in our lives includes heart disease, cancer, and diabetes to name a few. This presence is reported to have positive effects on a wide spectrum of health issues, including wound healing, immune response and developmental issues: Children living with pets develop stronger, healthier immune systems and have a lower risk of autism and other developmental obstacles, while learning a sense of responsibility. The children of pet-owning families we see in our practice are often well balanced emotionally and express remarkable empathy. I have had the fortune to meet many cats over the years, and I still contend that they teach me continuously. Their lessons are sometimes tragic when they just cannot go on and their care-takers are not ready to let go; their lessons are miraculous and show me their resilience and the unconditional love they have inside when I think their light is ready to go out. I cannot imagine my life without the furry, unconditional love and community I receive continuously from cats—both my patients and my personal little loved ones truly guide me, coach me, and insist that they get my attention at times often inconvenient. The incredible “in the moment” respite I receive daily from those little guys gathering around me, seemingly enjoying my sips of coffee just as much as I do, nuzzling my mediation book, head-butting the coffee cup, stretching for a belly rub and purring so loudly and incessantly that I cannot meditate…this is the stuff of connection, unconditional loving trust, and hope I crave each day. May you snuggle with your cat and sit in the moment of their life as they do yours!

Say awww... 4691 S Atlanta Rd SE, Ste 200 Atlanta 404.792.0700 www.catcareofvinings.com

Atlanta Pet Life

PaWty Animals Holl y

Lucy

Follow our fashionable charity-hopping trio who snoop out where the fun is happening inside the Atlanta pet scene. by Lucy, Holly & Kathi Welch

Top Dogs Paw Festival in Roswell PaWty Animals, along with oodles of other pets and pet lovers braved spring rains to attend Top Dogs Roswellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Spring Paw Festival on Sunday, April 23! Pooches and their families stocked up on free samples of holistic foods and doggie treats from their favorite vendors. Attendees and participants enjoyed a best dressed contest, best kisser contest, best trick contest, line dancing, and fabulous raffles baskets from their favorite pet food companies and local businesses At Top Dogs Roswell and Top Dogs Kennesaw, their mission is to provide high quality, all natural/ holistic foods, treats, and supplements for our pets. Along with this, they make sure our furry friends look fabulous in the latest styles and most innovative pet gear. You can be assured Top Dogs Roswell and Top Dogs Kennesaw stock everything you need to ensure your pets are healthy and happy. You can follow Top Dogs on Instagram. instagram. com/topdogspetboutique/ Funds raised from raffle basket sales, etc. went to numerous non-profits at the Paw Festival, including: Above and Beyond English Setter Rescue* Act2Pups Barktown Dog Rescue Canine Cellmates Cooperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cupboard German Shepherd Dog Rescue of GA Good Mews* Pets for Vets Rescue Me GA* Ruff Redemption Southeastern Greyhound Adoption You Lucky Dog Rescue*

The final total raised was: $4718.52 Each group with an asterisk* will receive a check for $1179.65 22

Atlanta Pet Life

Music & tunes provided all afternoon by guest DJ Greg Talmadge of News Radio 106.7, and delicious shaved-ice was be provided by Flavors of Hawaii - Authentic Hawaiian Shave Ice!

Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival - Pet World and Pet Parade Lucy & Holly – “Spring Bumble Bees in Spring Hats” People looking for a fun time with their pets on a gorgeous spring weekend headed out the door for the third annual 2017 Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival. Pet-friendly fun included a pet parade, pet costume contest, dog stunt shows, lure chasing, pet photo booth and a variety of incredible pet vendors. The festival was held in beautiful Blackburn Park Saturday, March 25 and Sunday, March 26 with free admission. There was also an arts and crafts Market with 40 booths of unique treasures; Pet World featuring the Dynamo Dogs Stunt Show, pet-centric vendors; a children’s village with a rock climbing wall; and musical performances by some of the today’s hottest bands. There was also a classic car show, a 5K Run and 1K walk. It’s a great place for families to bring their pets and stroll in the pet parade; last year’s event attracted more than 15,000 attendees. The Pet Costume Contest is a free (requires pre-registration) and entertaining event--dogs wearing costumes are always fun, and costumes get everyone chatting about their furkids and meeting new friends. PaWty Animals Lucy and Holly love meeting and interviewing pets and their families.

Tibetan terriers Puffles and Carolyn with Susie and Laura Parker, who won Best in Show in their beautiful Cherry Blossom-themed cart. When interviewed by Lucy and Holly, they eagerly said their favorite thing about the event was making new friends and being in the Pet Parade!

Bella, a lively and cute Jack Russell terrier and rat terrier mix, pictured with her loving pet paw-rents Connie and Michael, happily told PaWty Animals that getting lots of delicious treats was her favorite thing about the Cherry Blossom Pet World.

Poncho Via, an adorable toy poodle, rescued from Forsyth Humane Society, and his pet mom Denise, said during their interview with Lucy and Holly that the Cherry Blossom Festival is their very first pet event and both said they greatly enjoy getting out and meeting new friends.

The event was spread out over a larger part of Blackburn Park this year, with sections dedicated to vendors, shopping, food trucks, music and performances, a huge kid’s zone, pet related activities, pet adoptions and healthcare, and of course the crowd favorite stunt dog shows. There were also dog stunt shows throughout the weekend by Gail Mirabella & The Dynamo Dogs. These amazing, high-energy exhibitions showcase the dogs’ agility and mastery of disc dog skills. Angels Among Us Pet Rescue was on site all weekend for those interested in adding a new pet to their household. Angels Among Us Pet Rescue, Inc. is a nonprofit volunteer-based organization dedicated to rescuing dogs and cats from high-kill shelters in north Georgia. To date they have rescued more than 9,000 dogs and cats. They operate through a network of foster homes, and rescued animals are available for adoption. Also at the festival was Bad Ferret Lure Chasing. This popular non-competitive sport for dogs involves chasing a mechanically operated lure in a safe closed course. It provides fun and great exercise. There was a charge of $10 for the first run and $5 for the second run; all funds at the festival were donated to Angels Among Us Pet Rescue. Lucy and Holly encourage everyone to donate, volunteer, adopt and help Angels Among Us in any way you can.

Making an appearance at Pet World was mascot celebrity Haley Blackmon, a Scottish terrier, who travels the world providing education and information about the National Canine Cancer Foundation.

Holly loved all the cool Pet World events.

Taj Ma Hound Bakery for Dogs was on hand with their tasty and whimsical, baked-fresh daily, all natural gourmet dog treats. Atlanta Pet Life

Furkids Animal Rescue and Shelters Celebrate 15 Years! On Saturday, March 25, at a grand soiree held at Fernbank Museum of Natural History, Furkids Animal Rescue and Shelters celebrated 15 years of life-saving work for homeless animals in our community and the Southeast. Guests decked out in evening attire enjoyed dinner, cocktails, live music by Tommy Dean Quintet, a silent auction and special guest Jackson Galaxy. Furkids Kitty Kommercial genius Paul Preston was also in the house. Furkids Animal Rescue and Shelters is Georgia’s largest no-kill animal shelter and is a 501(c)(3), non-profit charity located in Atlanta, GA. To learn more, visit furkids.org.

Angels Among Us - 3rd Annual For The Love Of Paws Gala February 18th at the Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead, Angels Among Us Pet Rescue hosted “For The Love of Paws”. 500 guests enjoyed a 10 piece band, open bar, silent and live auction, and wine pull. Kroger joined Angels Rescue for the first year as a Diamond Sponsor. Other notable sponsors included BluePearl Veterinary Partners (formerly GVS) and WhyDoesMyDog.com, a website providing short canine behavior video training tips and answers. Founding Member LuAnn Farrell gave opening remarks on the history and vision of Angels Among Us Pet Rescue, which has grown exponentially during the past few years. The Gala featured among its “celebrity guests” some of Angel’s most notable dogs with amazing rescue stories from 2016, including Bravery, the dog who lost a leg and was left abandoned on the side of the road, Ramiel who survived massive infections, and, QB Matt Ryan’s namesakes, Mattie Ice. Mattie Ice who survived several shot to the face. All of them are healthy today, thanks to the work of over 700 Angels volunteers, fosters and veterinary partners from around Atlanta. Established in 2009, Angels Among Us Pet Rescue is a 501c3 non-profit, volunteer-based organization dedicated to the rescue of dogs and cats from high-kill shelters in Georgia. Operating through a network of foster homes in the vast Atlanta Metro area, Angels has rescued over 12,500 lives from these high-kill shelters across Georgia. Save the Date! The 4th Annual “For the Love of Paws” will be held at the Grand Hyatt Buckhead on Saturday, February 10th, 2018. www.angelsrescue.org 24

Atlanta Pet Life

Vets Talk

A Neurologic Examination for Patients Who Can’t Talk One of the biggest challenges of practicing veterinary medicine is the communication barrier between doctor and patient. This obstacle is especially noticeable when diagnosing a neurologic injury. A cat with a brain tumor cannot communicate his visual abnormalities, and a dog with a disk herniation cannot talk about how her back is hurting. We depend on the nuanced observations of pet owners, but we also rely upon the neuroliogic examination. As a board-certified veterinary neurologist, the neuroliogic examination is the most important of diagnostic tests available to me. Although advanced diagnostics like CT scans, MRI, and spinal taps are also used to make a pet’s ultimate diagnosis, the first step in the process is to “ask” the patient where the problem is. The neuroliogic examination is a specialized, systematic physical examination that evaluates the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. It allows me to localize the pet’s problem within the nervous system so I can further focus my diagnostic tests.

Surgery Neurology & Rehabilitation

I start by observing my patient: is this a happy, interactive dog, or one who is falling asleep on the exam table? Is the cat walking normally, or is it weak or wobbly? Next I examine the nerves traveling from the brain to the face. Can the pet feel and move its face and eyes normally? Can the pet see? Do the pupils respond appropriately to light? Can the pet hear me? Then I test the pet’s ability to place his or her paws appropriately and follow up with reflex testing of the limbs. These tests especially tell me about the health of the pet’s spinal cord. Finally, I ask the pet if he or she is in pain. Dogs and cats will tell me if it hurts when I press on a painful area of their head, spine, or muscles. This distinction is important because certain diseases are painful while others are not. Once the pet has told me where the problem is I will develop a diagnostic plan in conjunction with the pet owner. VRSP takes pride in the tailored care of pets and their owners, and providing personalized care from pet injury through recovery.

Jill Narak, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Neurology) Board-certified Veterinary Neurologist Veterinary Referral Surgical Practice veterinaryreferralsurgery.com Facebook and Instagram @neuronarak

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Animal Law

Service Animals Emotional Support Animals

What’s the difference and how does that affect me?

By Claudine Wilkins and Jessica Rock, former prosecutors and founders of Animal Law Source.

Animals play important roles in our lives as companions, and for some of us, as invaluable assistants necessary for physical assistance or emotional support. There is a difference between service animals and emotional support animals, and different rules and laws apply to each. It can be confusing and, sadly, some non-disabled people are taking advantage of these labels simply to have their dog with them wherever they go. It is a crime to “fake it” in most states.

Service animals are individually trained to perform tasks and work as a team with their disabled partners, such as someone who is blind or deaf or physically challenged, to help them attain greater independence and safety than they might otherwise be able to achieve on their own. Service animals are also used for mental disabilities. A service animal is also not required to wear any type of special identification and does not require certification. There are a number of acts, both federal and state, that protect the rights of those with disabilities to be accompanied by their service dog under a wide variety of circumstances. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are allowed in businesses and organizations that are open to the public, such as restaurants, taxis, hospitals, grocery stores, department stores, theaters and parks and in any area where customers are normally allowed. Businesses that sell or prepare food must allow service animals even if state or local codes prohibit animals on the premises.

Atlanta Pet Life

Georgia law states that disabled individuals “are entitled to full and equal accommodations” on all public conveyances and forms of transport and public places, “subject only to the conditions and limitations established by law and applicable alike to all persons.” Disabled persons cannot be charged extra just because they have a guide or service dog. Under Georgia Code, there is another type of animal called the “assistance dog” which is identified as a dog that has been trained by a licensed or certified person or agency to perform physical tasks for a physically challenged person. Assistance dogs include those that guide individuals who are legally blind; that alert hearing-impaired individuals to specific sounds; and service dogs trained to perform a variety of physical tasks, such as pulling a wheelchair, lending balance support, picking up dropped objects, or providing assistance in a medical crisis. Persons engaged in training service or guide dogs have similar accommodations, advantages, facilities, and privileges. Service animals may only be excluded if accommodating them would alter the na-

ture of the facility or the service it provides, when the animal is a direct threat to health and safety or if the animal is not housebroken or out of control. Any person or firm who denies or interferes with a person who has a right to be present with his or her service dog in violation of the Georgia code will be guilty of a high and aggravated misdemeanor and could face up to a $2,000 fine and up to 30 days in prison, or both. If it is necessary to determine the status of an animal as a service animal under the law, there are certain things that can and cannot be asked. For example, it is possible to ask a disabled person what task their service animal is trained to do for them, but it is not possible to ask what disability the person has, or for the person to provide proof of training or a doctor’s note about their disability. Emotional support animals (ESAs) are not required to undergo specialized training; their companionship may relieve depression and anxiety as well as help reduce stress-induced pain in persons with certain medical conditions affected by stress. This benefits many conditions, such as debilitating depression, dementia, autism, PTSD and more. These animals are not granted access to establishments that do not allow pets. An exception is the Fair Housing Act, which does permit ESAs in housing that has a “no pets” policy. Persons who are seeking a reasonable accommodation for an ESA may be required to provide documentation from a physician, psychiatrist, social worker or other mental health professional that the animal provides support that alleviates at least one identified symptom or effect of the existing disability. Housing providers may request verification that the person requesting an accom-

modation has a disability, and an explanation of the nexus between the requested accommodation and the disability. A housing provider may not ask an applicant or tenant to provide access to medical records or medical providers or to provide detailed or extensive information or documentation of their physical or mental impairments. Another type of service animal is the therapy animal, which also receives extensive training but has a completely different type of job from service dogs. Their responsibilities are to provide psychological or physiological therapy to individuals other than their handlers. These dogs have stable temperaments and friendly, easy-going personalities. It’s typical to see them visiting institutions such as hospitals, hospices, nursing homes, schools, day care facilities and group homes or rehabilitation centers. Unlike service dogs, therapy dogs are encouraged to socialize and interact with a variety of people while they’re on duty. Despite thorough training, therapy dogs do not have the same level of access as service dogs to places where pets are not permitted. All dogs are subject to the same requirements for vaccinations; rabies; animal-at-large; and dangerous dog laws, and the owner is subject to liability for any damage done to the premises or facilities by any such dog. If a service animal or ESA’s behavior poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others and its owner takes no effective action to control the animal’s behavior so that the threat is mitigated or eliminated, that animal can be removed.

For a more in-depth discussion of all kinds of service animals and the law, please visit www.animallawsource.org

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Pet Business

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PawsWhiskersandWags.com 28

Atlanta Pet Life

Photos By: Tracey Luttgens of Heart Spot Pet & Family Portraits

Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe This Summer The summer months can be a particularly difficult season for pets, and even deadly in some circumstances. That’s why Christine Hunsaker, a life-long animal lover and co-founder and owner of Paws, Whiskers & Wags, Your Pet Crematory, wants to issue a word of caution to pet owners in the Atlanta area. “Unfortunately, we see an increased need for our services as a pet cremation company every summer due to many circumstances that can affect our pets. Like the families we serve, everyone who works at my company are animal lovers and has pets. We want to be there when you need us, but not a minute before,” says Hunsaker. Taking a few extra precautions can make a big difference in keeping your pets healthy and safe this summer. As the owner of two dogs and two cats, Hunsaker knows that the South’s heat and humidity can quickly lead to dehydration and heat stroke, particularly if animals are kept outside, left in a parked car or involved in strenuous activities during the heat of the day. With more people coming and going at this time, it’s easier for doors to be left open and for pets to get out of their yards or off their leash. She also reminds pet owners to talk to their veterinarian about any concerns they may have. After all, she knows what it’s like to say goodbye to a beloved pet.

“Saying goodbye to a loved one – whether they have two legs or four legs – is tough. We recognize the importance of the human-animal bond. It’s a tough day when people come see us. Our goal is to make their experience as good as it can be on a really tough day,” said Hunsaker. “We realize people have a choice as to where they take their pets after they have died. There’s a reason our company is the Number One choice for pet cremation in the Atlanta area. We are 100% full disclosure, we cremate each pet alone, and have company core values that affect how we treat people,” said Hunsaker. “In turn, people have confidence in us and the dignified manner we take care of their pets. It’s an honor that they choose us to help with the care of their loved one.” Paws, Whiskers & Wags was founded in 2005 after Hunsaker’s dog Casey was tragically killed and she tried to find someone to memorialize her pet. Unfortunately, the process she and her partner went through was terrible and broke their hearts even more. “That’s why we started this company. To give people a choice and to give them peace of mind,” said Hunsaker. Paws, Whiskers & Wags now has locations in Decatur and Covington, GA and Charlotte, NC. They also partner with many veterinary practices in providing cremation services for their clients. For more information about the services they provide, visit PawsWhiskersandWags.com or call 404-370-6000.

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Atlanta Pet Life

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Watching fish swim gracefully in an aquarium, you wouldn’t think that they could have a problem with stress, but it happens more often that you might think. When a fish gets stressed, this manifests as a weakened immune system, a loss of appetite, or both. Helping a fish recover from stress can be time-consuming, trying and often not meet with the desired result. But by taking a few steps, you can keep a happy and stress-free home for your pets. In my experience, the primary stressors are change and aggressive behavior from other fish. Stress from other fish often takes one of three forms. The first form is the sheer number of fish. Aquariums that I see are often over crowded, as fish fight for territories and swimming space. Many fish stores will recommend “One fish per x gallons,” or “one inch of fish per gallon.” While they mean well, these guidelines are misleading. A tang, for example, requires much more space than a longnose hawkfish. Too many of the wrong types of fish will overcrowd an aquarium and make it very stressful for its inhabitants. The second form is hierarchy development. Every tank has its alpha fish and every tank has its runt. The runt, until it shows it can hold its own, suffers harassment from other fish, including nipping and tearing of fins and denial of the opportunity to eat. This is one of the only times I might suggest overfeeding a tank to make sure that everybody eats. The third is aggres-

Atlanta Pet Life

sion, which itself comes in two types. The first often happens once a fish has established a territory as its own for some time before a new fish is introduced. Some fish are more aggressive by nature than others, and some are aggressive based on their maturity. I have fielded several calls from owners telling me that their really cool maroon clownfish just attacked every other fish in the tank. The second type of aggression occurs when a fish is added that is either the same type or a similar type to an already established fish. Fish that are the same color or similar shapes to each other can be viewed as threats, and should be avoided unless they are known to be community fish. Consulting with an aquarium professional (who is not

trying to sell you fish) is a great way to avoid these mistakes. Be sure to tell them what size of aquarium and what types of fish you have so that they can best envision the issue. Working together, you can often reach an appropriate solution. Contributed by David Green Co-Founder of ReefTechs Aquarium Consultants. www.reeftechs.com

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Atlanta Pet Life

The sun is shining, the humidity is building, the kids are out of school swimming in the pool, and the family dog is at the groomer being shaved. Sounds like a typical summer, doesn’t it? But one of the above scenarios might not be the best way to deal with the heat after all. Breeds such as poodles, Shih tzus and Yorkshire terriers have coats that grow on a continuing basis, and need grooming year round. For these breeds, the owner and groomer may choose a shorter trim for the summer to keep the dog neater and easier to maintain. So while Sassy the Shih tzu is primped and ready for the annual family picnic, what about Gus the golden retriever or Chief the chow chow? They’re leaving chunks of hair everywhere they go—shouldn’t we just have them shaved and enjoy a summer without dog hair all over? Maybe not—let me try to explain. Gus and Chief’s double coat actually has a purpose, besides keeping the vacuum cleaner companies in business. Double-coated breeds have two layers. The outer layer consists of long guard hairs, which in winter protect against snow or ice and even shed rain. The softer undercoat lies close to the skin and keeps the dog warm and dry. In summer, double-coated

dogs shed most of their soft undercoat, leaving the guard hairs, which protect them from sunburn and insulate them from the heat. With the undercoat out of the way, air can now circulate through the guard hairs and cool the skin. In any weather, the key to your dog’s coat being able to fulfill its primary function is regular grooming by you and your dog’s groomer. If Gus and Chief aren’t thoroughly brushed several times a week, their coats may become thick and matted, so when Gus dives in the pool and Chief strolls through a summer shower, the moisture can become trapped next to their skin. This results in problems ranging from a smelly dog to skin conditions like “hot spots” and yeast, fungal or bacterial infections, all of which will require a visit to the veterinarian and again make us wonder if having Gus and Chief shaved for the summer isn’t a great idea. The person to best answer that question is you, the dog’s owner.

PetWinery.com introduces The Complete PetBar for your pets! If you have the time and resources to keep Gus and Chief thoroughly brushed out and in pristine condition, there is no compelling reason to have them shaved. Air conditioning, fans, cooling mats, pools, plenty of shade and water when the dog accompanies you in the yard, and restricting walks and playtime to the early morning or late evening will help keep any dog more comfortable through the summer months. If your lifestyle is busy and you admit that despite your best intentions you might not brush Gus and Chief until September, it’s time to have an honest chat with a professional groomer. Before consenting to a full shave, first consider having your double-coated dog bathed, fully de-shedded and lightly trimmed. This could include shortening up the chest, stomach, rear feathers and groin areas. A visit to the doggie spa every four to eight weeks for these services may be all that’s needed to get through the summer heat. If you do choose a complete “shave down,” ask your groomer to leave at least an inch of coat to help prevent damage to the hair follicles and skin and to avoid sunburn. Also, keep in mind that the guard hairs and undercoat grow at different rates and there is the possibility that it may take months or even years for your dog’s

coat to return to its normal appearance. Shaving short-coated breeds such as Labrador retrievers, beagles or basset hounds will not decrease their shedding. These breeds have short straight hairs that shed on a continual basis, and even more so during molting. Shaving breeds such as this will only result in shorter hairs that are more likely to stick to your carpet, clothes and furniture. These breeds need frequent brushing, bathing and de-shedding treatments to manage their shedding. Teaching these dogs to accept vacuuming may also be beneficial. One other thing: If you are considering shaving your dog just to help keep it cooler, remember that dogs don’t sweat through their skin. Dogs dissipate excess heat by panting and only sweat through a few sweat glands in their footpads. The only right answer to the “to shave or not to shave” question is the answer that works for you and your dogs. A shaved dog is better off than a matted dog with fleas, ticks and hot spots. If you have questions regarding any aspect of your dog’s care, talk with your breeder, your groomer and your veterinarian; we are all here to help. Now…everybody in the pool!

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Atlanta Pet Life

When a loving dog parent has to leave their canine friend in someone else’s care, whether due to work obligations or travel, they want to know not just that their pet is safe, but also happy and having a positive experience. At Atlanta Dog Spa, owner Sarah Segal has gone the extra mile to make sure that every dog in her facility’s care is cared for with love and attention so that they go home as a happy and contented pooch. Located in west Midtown, Atlanta Dog Spa contains over 10,000 square feet of both indoor and outdoor space for dogs to enjoy themselves. This means that toy, small to medium, and large breeds are all able to have their own play yard and rooms for safer and more enjoyable play for all. Outdoors, there are grassy yards perfect for running and active play, including a dip in the wading pool. Playgroups are kept small so that every dog gets personalized attention. When the dogs need to come in for some relaxation, there are condos and suites perfect for a power nap and living rooms, including the Lounge and Romper Room areas, equipped with toys and comfy furniture for relaxing while watching a dog-friendly movie. For the “minis,” there’s Doggywood, a play area decorated with a mural of a city skyline and a “walk of fame” that lets them feel like the pampered stars they are. In addition to daycare, Atlanta Dog Spa offers boarding services that provide the option of staying in a cage-free environment as close as possible to the one at home. Dogs who are boarding have access to all the daycare benefits, and are fed and sleep separately (alternate sleeping arrangements, including sleeping in one of the living rooms, can be made). The Spa wants guests to leave looking as good as they feel, and luxury grooming for all breeds is available onsite that includes undercoat removal, bubble bath pawdicures, blueberry facials, and extra touches like safe coloring, nail designs, and temporary tattoos. With all the wonderful perks available, Atlanta Dog Spa is the perfect place for a special doggie birthday party, complete with themed decorations, healthy birthday cake and photographer. And for gifts, just drop by the shop to choose from a full line of quality products, including specialty foods and treats, collars and leashes, toys and other items for that special pooch. This haven for doggies away from home is the brainchild of Sarah Segal, who surprisingly, didn’t have dogs growing up. In 2002, Segal was working in telecommunication sales and also teaching fifth- and sixth-grade students part time. That year, she took her class on a field trip to the humane society, where they met Boomer, a young beagle. Segal adopted him, and from that day it was a love story. Boomer inspired her to create the Dog Spa and in the process, find her second career and true calling. Boomer is no longer with us, but lives on in Segal’s heart and in the work she does. Looking at the happy dogs enjoying the Atlanta Dog Spa, you just know he approves.

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