Pet Guide Magazine by STUDIO Gannett

FUR, FINS, WHISKERS & MORE

PET GUIDE SPRING/SUMMER 2015

WAYS TO DE-STRESS YOUR PUP

Fashion Food for Fido and Fluffy

PLACES WHERE CATS RULE

Matt &

Wrangler Today pup’s journey to becoming a service dog

PET GUIDE SPRING/SUMMER 2015

FEATURES 24

STAR-SPANGLED WRANGLER

FRIENDS INDEED

WHERE CATS RULE

46 52

The NBC Today Lab’s journey from pup to guide

Pets make a difference for kids with special needs

Destinations where it’s clear the cat is king

HOME ALONE The somewhat guilt-free ways to leave your pet behind

DOG-WALKING CAREER PATH You, too, can turn your love for dogs into a job

BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL SOCIETY; HEIDI GUTMAN/NBC

More Pups See more of our readers’ therapy pet friends at: facebook.com/ StudioGannett

UP FRONT 8 10 14 18 20 22

Meet our readers’ therapy pets High-tech problem-solvers Trends in pet food, fashion Swimming goes to the dogs Grow your own catnip Poison Control: a true story

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A rock star does dog tunes 5 ways to calm your pup Petite canines have panache Combat your pup’s allergies Dogs that cost at the vet

CATS 86 Find more of our premium magazines online! Visit premiumpubs.usatoday.com Follow us on Twitter! @usatodaymags Cover photo by Heidi Gutman/NBC

PET GUIDE 2015

78 80 82 84

How to make your cat famous Take the best cat photos ever Can you really train your cat? Easy ways to pamper felines

MORE PETS 86 90 92 96

HEDGEHOGS: Cute, but a lot of work RABBITS: Hop on down the bunny trail FISH: The latest for the coolest tanks BACK PAGE: Houdini hamsters

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DOGS

CONTRIBUTING ILLUSTRATORS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS Nathalie Dion, Anna Grape, Heidi Gutman, Peter Kramer, Samantha Okazaki

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CALLOUT 8 | PRODUCTS 10 | TRENDS 14 | HEALTH 18

Just For Fun Artist Rafael Mantesso spends most of his free time taking and illustrating photos of his best friend, a bull terrier named Jimmy Choo.

The Brazilian imagines fantastical scenes for his pup. Jimmy Choo has been a flying superhero, a jailed bank robber, even a rock star.

RAFAEL MANTESSO

Check out their adventures on Instagram, @rafaelmantesso. His forthcoming book, A Dog Named Jimmy, will be released Sept. 29 by Avery.

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SEE MORE! Check out our furry therapy pet friends at facebook.com/ StudioGannett

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PET GUIDE 2015

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e asked USA TODAY readers and social media enthusiasts to help us celebrate service and therapy animals that do so much for so many every day. Thanks to all who sent along photos! Here are just a few of our favorites. Also check out stories about service animals (NBC Today puppy in training, page 24) and other therapy pets that help kids with special needs (page 30).

CHEVY Columbia Station, Ohio

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PRODUCTS

CREATURE COMFORTS Why shouldn’t our pets go high-tech, too?

▲ When you can’t be home to dish out dinner, feed your pet with this automatic dispenser by Petnet(io). Set a daily or weekly feeding schedule. Control it via smartphone app. $249, pintofeed.com

BY ALEXA ROGERS

ou love your gadgets and you love your pets, so consider these high-tech tools a way to combine your passions.

▲ The PetziConnect wireless pet monitor lets you see, talk to and take pictures and video of your pet while you’re away. The monitor, which connects to your smartphone, can also dispense treats at your command, giving your four-legged friends a little pick-me-up while you’re gone. $169.99, petzi.com 10

PET GUIDE 2015

▲ Keeping up with your pets gets easier with the Tagg GPS Plus. It slips easily on your dog’s collar and tracks daily movements. If your pup wanders too far from home, Tagg will send you a notification and map locator. $99.95, pettracker.com/pet-products

COURTESY OF THE COMPANIES

uGive your pet his own key to the house. The Electronic SmartDoor automatic pet door reacts to a sensor attached to your pet’s collar, triggering the door to open. $134.95, store.petsafe.net

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PRODUCTS

◀ Your dog can count his steps, too! The Whistle Activity Monitor tracks daily activities and sends the info to your smartphone. $99.95, shop.whistle.com

uCats love lasers. They just do. The FroliCat Dart automatic, rotating laser light toy has an adjustable timer and several speed settings, so you can customize your cat’s playtime. $29.99, Bed Bath & Beyond

uStop your dog from scratching at the door with the wireless Lentek Pet Chime. Teach him to step on the Pet Paw transmitter (sold separately) when he wants to go out, and the doorbell will notify you. $32.99 and $25.19, amazon.com

▲ Pets who like to spend time outside can be hard to find when it’s time to come in for the night. The Halo Mini LED Pet Collar is reflective, water-resistant and has LED lights with rechargable batteries. $35, halobelt.com/ buy-led-safety-belt/

▲ Some dogs can’t get enough fetch, even when you’re tired of tossing. Designed for small dogs, the iFetch Automatic Ball Launcher lofts miniature tennis balls anywhere from 10 feet to 30 feet. Now your pup can keep playing while your arm takes a break. $115, goifetch.com/products

◀ Energetic cats shouldn’t have to wait for a game of chase. The Solar Chaser attaches to your window and operates on solar power to keep your kitten entertained all day long. $39.95, solarchasers.com ●

PET GUIDE 2015

COURTESY OF THE COMPANIES

◀ Let your cat’s litter box clean itself with the Litter-Robot II. The sifting system transfers clumped litter into a waste drawer that can be emptied every few days. Cleaning the litter box becomes as easy as taking out the garbage. $369, litter-robot.com

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TRENDS

TREND SETTERS

Fashion, fresh food and spa services for pets are en vogue BY P EGGY J. NOONAN

PET GUIDE 2015

THINKSTOCK

ack in Grandpa’s day, a dog or cat was just an animal. Today, many people treat their critter companions as part of the family. And as for any beloved family member, “pet parents” want only the best products and services for their furry — or feathered or scaly — kids or kin. We asked the two leading pet store chains what’s trending this year.

UP FRONT

TRENDS

CELEBRATIONS “There’s a growing desire from pet parents to make their furry children a part of life celebrations and holidays,” says Joice Wirkus, vice president of retail marketing at PetSmart in Phoenix. To help, PetSmart is expanding its holiday apparel and offerings. “We also know there will be an increase in demand for pets to be included in celebrations like weddings and birthdays,” Wirkus adds. So the queen of entertaining is lending a hand. Martha Stewart Pets is launching a wedding-theme line for dogs that will include a wedding dress, bridesmaid dress, tuxedo, bow tie and bow collars with matching leashes. The outfits, and a new Martha Stewart Pets birthday apparel line, will be available exclusively at PetSmart.

NUTRITION

The top two varieties are raw and fresh foods. Fresh foods are minimally processed and cooked just enough to make them safe. Raw foods are not cooked, but go through one processing step to ensure safety; vitamins and minerals are added for nutrition. Both fresh and raw foods are growing “at a double-digit percentile,” Sturm says. Petco now sells two brands of natural pet foods at more affordable prices. Whole Earth Farms targets people who are feeding their pets conventional pet foods now but want to switch to a more wholesome product. It’s already “the fastest-growing brand at Petco,” says Sturm. Under the Sun, a new product launching this spring, is processed from farm-fresh ingredients at volume levels that allow Petco “to offer it at very, very affordable prices.”

The natural pet food movement started to gain momentum about 10 years ago and today accounts for the majority of sales, says Petco’s vice president of merchandising, merchandising vice presiJohn Sturm. Pet parents want less dent, Jennifer Loesch. She has seen processing, fewer fillers and artificial “tremendous growth” in Petco’s Pick ingredients, better-quality proteins, 3 Spa Experience that lets pet moms and simpler recipes because “what we add three extra to a grooming. Services feed (our pets) matters,” Sturm says. include luxury coat re-moisturizer, One of the hottest trends is “grainbreath re-fresh and paw pedicures. free nutrition,” part of PetSmart’s Grooming the ancestral feeding Salons offer extras concept that such as aromathermimics what dogs apy to help relax MARKET SHARE and cats would eat pets. “It’s added PetSmart Petco CONTROLLED BY in the wild: more to a bath or groom THE TWO BIG BOX animal protein and includes calming PET STORES and fat; and less lavender shampoo, SOURCE: IBISWORLD MARCH 2015 REPORT grain, including conditioner and wheat, corn, soy and spray,” Wirkus says. barley. Concerns about Another special protein quality are driving SPAS includes goodies like a up sales of products that use quail, Spa days aren’t just for pampered milk bath conditioner, nose and pad bison and venison, says Sturm. humans anymore. Basic grooming cream and paw massage. “Pet parents Minimally processed foods “are only services, such as bathing, brushing, don’t hold back when they want to going to become bigger and bigger,” he and nail-trimming, are expanding to pamper their furry kids.” Because predicts. include spa treatments, says Petco’s they’re worth it. j

PET GUIDE 2015

PETCO; PETSMART

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H E A LT H

H E A LT HY L APS

Dogs c a even w n exercise hen it’s cold by hitti ng indoor the pool

Indoor pools open their doors to dogs BY STACEY FREED

llen Spruce’s 10-year-old black Lab, Jet, is lucky to have a pool to swim in during the summer; however come winter in upstate New York, outdoor swimming isn’t an option. “But,” says Spruce, “we come here and Jet’s in heaven.” “Here” is CoolBlue Conditioning, an indoor swimming pool for dogs in Macedon, N.Y. — about 118 miles from Spruce’s home in Endicott, N.Y. She brings Jet once a month, and they spend the night nearby. “I have as much fun and joy as she does,” Spruce says. A pool is a great way for dogs, whether they’re energetic pups or aging mutts with creaky joints, to get some exercise. “It’s about exercising and conditioning, but it has to be fun,” says CoolBlue

PET GUIDE 2015

co-owner Trish Wager, whose yellow Lab, Blue, was a “genetic mess — bad knees and elbows.” Blue spent a lot of time in veterinary rehab until Wager and her husband, Mike, opened CoolBlue. Their 15,000-gallon, 4-foot-deep pool is treated with ultraviolet light, minerals and ultra-low levels of chlorine, Mike Wager says. There’s an underwater treadmill and large play areas for agility training and Crossfit Canine and Pudgy Pooch programs. Trained staffers guide the dogs’ swim. Owners don’t go in the pool, but can play along. Jet’s favorite game requires Spruce to run beside the pool and toss a ball in. Jet gets to exercise, and Spruce gets a big benefit, too. “Being here just takes away all the bad things going on in the world,” she says.

CHECK OUT THESE INDOOR SWIMMING FACILITIES uAlaska K9 Aquatics, Anchorage, alaskak9aquatics.com uBarley’s Canine Recreation Center, Salt Lake City, swimatbarleys.com uCoolBlue Conditioning, coolblueconditioning.com uFido’s Indoor Dog Park, Portland, Ore., fidosindoordogpark.com uCanine & Condition Rehabilitation Group (CRCG), Broomfield and Englewood, Colo., dog-swim.com uCanine Fitness and Fun Center, Denver, caninefitnessandfuncenter.com uLap it Up, Durham, N.C., lapitup.biz uMartial Arfs, Nassau County, N.Y., martialarfs.com

FROM LEFT: THINKSTOCK; COOLBLUE CONDITIONING

MAKE A SPLASH

. . . s e g a c l e e t s in t p e k g n i e b From

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H E A LT H

CULTIVATING CATNIP Grow your own treats for kitteh BY DIANA LAMBDIN MEYER

atnip is to felines what rich chocolate and a good wine are to us humans. Sure, we don’t need chocolate and wine to survive, but isn’t life much more pleasant because of it? Which is why we should show some love to kitty and take the extra step to grow fresh, organic catnip. Like homegrown tomatoes, the homegrown herb just tastes better, and it’s relatively easy to grow.

Pick up seeds or plantings at your local garden store and find a sunny location. Direct sunlight and heat make for hardy, fast-growing catnip.

Plant in small containers in the house or in larger batches in the garden. And use compost in the soil. “The key to good catnip is compost, compost, compost,” says Cynthia Bullock, who grows catnip for a non-profit organization, Harley’s Hope Foundation, which assists low-income pet owners when medical issues arise.

Water, but not too much. “It is possible to overwater catnip, which makes it moldy, so always err on the side of drier, well-drained soil,” says Bullock. She has some plants that do very well growing on the outside of her house near the dryer vent.

Arrange some sort of cage or netting around the plant so that cats can’t help themselves to the treat any time they like.

PET GUIDE 2015

Harvest in four to six weeks or when the stems are about 12 inches long. You may harvest sooner and share a fresh leaf with kitty, but the drying process requires a long stem to tie the bundle.

Dry the leaves at room temperature in absolute darkness for four to six weeks, recommends Bullock. When fully dried, the leaves can be crumbled in food or put in a little cloth bag for cats to play with.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: THINKSTOCK; B.A. LEVREAULT; THINKSTOCK; COLORADO KITTY POT

UP FRONT

H E A LT H

GRAPE PANIC A dog and master learn it’s best to stay away from the fruit

CHLOE What’s not to love about a happy pooch who gets into trouble? Be ready.

PET GUIDE 2015

t only took 48 grapes and a few seconds for a weekend in the Virginia countryside to go wrong, thanks to my underestimating one little dog’s gusto for anything edible. It started out happily enough last fall — dogsitting Chloe, an adult mixedbreed my daughter, Kate, adopted from a rural shelter. She was with us as my husband and I harvested wine grapes from our hobby vineyard. Like my two dogs — a golden retriever and a mixed Lab — she enthusiastically followed me. But unlike my two dogs, who stay close, she unexpectedly left to bury her snout in a small pile of discarded grapes destined for composting. She had the fruit to herself for only a few seconds, but it was enough time to have me hurrying her into the house, where a quick Web search confirmed grapes can be toxic to dogs, potentially causing fatal kidney failure. Dialing the ASPCA Animal Poison Control hotline, I was shaking. The voice on the other end of the line, however, couldn’t have been calmer. After a brief description of Chloe and

the incident — focusing on how many grapes she may have gobbled down (I wasn’t sure) — the operator instructed me to feed her a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and milk in a dose calculated for her weight. The hydrogen peroxide would make her vomit; the milk would make the dose more palatable. (Caution: Call before doing this.) Chloe eagerly lapped up the mixture and we didn’t have long to wait. With garden gloves on, I sorted through the contents — some 48 grapes, each about the size of a small blueberry. Yikes. We estimated Chloe had tossed up all or most of what she’d eaten, so I agreed to watch her for the next 36 hours to be sure she was not sick enough to see a vet. Chloe did fine. Lessons learned? Every dog is unique, so don’t take anything for granted when it comes to safety — and keep the hotline number handy: 888-426-4435. (The ASPCA Poison Control Center 24-hour hotline handles thousands of calls annually. I was charged a $65 consultation fee. For more information, go to aspca.org.)

THINKSTOCK; KATE GARSSON

BY CHRIS GARSSON

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Today’s lovable canine cameo, Wrangler, will spend 16 months preparing for life as a guide dog

pend just a few minutes with Today co-anchor Matt Lauer, and it’s apparent he’s a dog lover of the highest order — and this is not just some made-for-camera mushy moment. “I don’t trust people who don’t love animals,” he says with that famous wry smile while sitting on the floor of Today’s Orange Room, the casual social media hub adjacent to the main set. The Orange Room, where celebrity guests often do their promos, now doubles as Wrangler’s morning hangout. “We’re having a blast with him,” Lauer adds, ruffling the Labrador retriever’s golden fur. At just 10 weeks old, Wrangler made

PET GUIDE 2015

his debut on the NBC set at 30 Rockefeller Center on Jan. 14, kicking off the show’s partnership with Guiding Eyes for the Blind, a Yorktown Heights, N.Y.-based non-profit. He immediately took a liking to Lauer’s tie and it has been, by all accounts, love at first lick. “In between breaks and promos, I love sitting on the ground with Wrangler,” Lauer says. “We have our wrestling match every morning and he loves to go after the toys in my hand. It’s funny — he used to be out cold like clockwork every day around 7:45 each morning, but I think he’s getting bigger and taking fewer puppy naps!” Besides the fact that it would be hard

HEIDI GUTMAN/NBC; THINKSTOCK

BY LAMBETH HOCHWALD

Best Buddies NBC Today show co-anchor Matt Lauer gets a lift on the set every morning from his new canine pal, Wrangler.

Team Effort Today squad from left: Natalie Morales, Carson Daly, Savannah Guthrie (with Wrangler), Matt Lauer and Al Roker.

to find a cuter puppy, the goal of featuring Wrangler on air for a total of 16 months is a serious one: To draw attention to the ways in which Guiding Eyes for the Blind helps blind or visually impaired individuals and families of children on the autism spectrum. Once his training is complete, Wrangler could be matched with a blind or visually impaired individual or become a service dog for a family with an autistic child. STAR IN THE MAKING The pup is now an integral part of the Today team. Arriving bright and early five days a week at 6:45 a.m with his “puppy raiser,” Saxon Eastman, Wrangler stays until the show ends at 11 a.m. In that time, he greets fans with the hosts and walks the plaza. His crate activities are streamed live from his puppy cam on the Today show website.

PET GUIDE 2015

Back in the studio, guests learn the rules of interacting with the pup thanks to a sign posted on the door. Included: “Four on the floor” — meaning Wrangler isn’t allowed to jump on people or climb on furniture — greetings should be kept calm, no human food and chewing on approved chew toys only. The most important rule for this puppy: Let sleeping dogs lie. Guests, no matter how A-list, shouldn’t disturb his napping, something he loves to do in his cozy, monogrammed orange crate filled with chew toys and a fleece blanket. Not only is he an esteemed guest, but he’s interacted with lots of celebrities, from Chrissy Teigen and Anne Hathaway to Naomi Campbell and Kristen Stewart. “Celebs come in and queue up to do the show in the Orange Room, and Wrangler has become a natural ice-breaker,” Lauer says. “People have really responded to the

PETER KRAMER/NBC

GOLDEN BOY

ALI FAIRHURST

fact that it’s not just a puppy on the set. Wrangler is here for a reason, and he’s got this incredible future ahead of him.” This might be why Wrangler is one of the busiest canines on social media, with 107,000 followers on Instagram and 35,000 Twitter fans — and counting. “I think people like the fact that they’re going to be able to watch him develop and know he’s going to go on and do great things for someone,” Lauer says. “Whenever we post a video of one of us playing with Wrangler, it goes crazy. People comment on it all day. It’s fun.” For Lauer, 57, Wrangler has added just the right balance to life on this early morning set. “We cover so many tough stories here, so to have that one little moment where you can look over and see Wrangler, it’s kind of an island in the storm sometimes,” says the anchor, who grew up outside of New York City and has always been a dog dad. His pups included Walden, a golden retriever he had for 14 years while living near Boston. The Lauer family currently shares its home with a 3-year-old white German shepherd named Jules. “My three kids are obsessed with Jules,” insists Lauer. “They’re also obsessed with Wrangler and are now calling for a new puppy.” During his time with Wrangler and Eastman, Lauer says he has learned a lot about how to train a guide dog. “I’m the kind of guy who, when I see a puppy, I like to get down on the floor, wrestle, pick him up or say, ‘Jump up,’ and stuff like that,” he says. “That’s counter to the things Sax (Eastman) is trying to train Wrangler to do. When Wrangler jumps up and I start to play with him ... she gives me a look. When he’s a service dog, Wrangler can’t be jumping up on people.” A HUMAN-CANINE CONNECTION While Lauer says he hasn’t had any personal experience with a service dog before Wrangler, he’s done his share of stories about them. “I’ve always been fascinated with

Helping Paws

ebekah Cross, below, was 15 when she learned she had retinitis pigmentosa, an inherited degenerative eye disease. “I was told that many people go blind, but some don’t,” says Cross, now 29. So she forged ahead in the sighted world, attending college and gaining a degree in graphics. But her vision continued to deteriorate. “I couldn’t detect the difference in colors as well as I once could,” she says. Undeterred, in 2008 she opened an art gallery/coffee shop in her hometown of Fairmont, W.Va., and ran it with her husband, Adam, for three years. In 2012, the couple moved to New York City so Adam could pursue a graduate degree in art. It was then that his wife had to make some decisions. “My vision was bad enough that I couldn’t walk around by myself as much as I wanted to, so I got help,” Cross says. “I learned how to use a cane, but I hated it with a passion.” Still, she used it and worked as assistant director of marketing and outreach for Healing Arts Initiative, a non-profit that provides access to the arts for culturally under-served individuals. That’s when the idea of a guide dog took hold. “My boss is a graduate of Guiding Eyes for the Blind and he said I’d be a good candidate,” she says. “But I wasn’t sure I was ready.” Then, in January 2014, on the way to work, Cross got lost. Within days she applied to Guiding Eyes and was contacted by the non-profit soon after. In August, she started classes and was ultimately matched with Jingles, her yellow Labrador. “I can’t express how much more confident I am now that I have Jingles,” says Cross of her guide dog, with whom she’ll live for the next eight years, which is the average length of a guide dog’s career. “When I was using my cane, I wouldn’t leave home for much more than going to work. Now, I take the Amtrak to Boston with Jingles, or we go on long walks together. I’m not this person walking around with a medical device.” — Lambeth Hochwald

GOLDEN BOY

Guiding Eyes

PET GUIDE 2015

what separates a dog that’s perfect for doing guide work from one that isn’t,” he says. “One thing Saxon told us early on in this process is that there’s never a guarantee that they’ll go on to become guide dogs.” A lot of work goes into a pup to make it a guide dog or service animal, and Wrangler’s day is only half done when he leaves the Today set. From there, it’s an hour’s commute back to Eastman’s home for an afternoon of training with other puppies around his age. “Wrangler’s day is a lot more than you see here on the show,” Lauer says. “We’re here to provide the social side of things.” Indeed, Lauer’s commitment to this project has transcended Wrangler’s sheer cuteness. “Someone’s life is going to change because of what Wrangler is learning here and during the rest of his day with Saxon,” he says. His biggest hope: That more attention

Puppy Kisses Lauer’s day is not complete without a morning wrestle with Wrangler, the latest addition to the Today team.

will be paid to this cause and that Lauer will be able to follow Wrangler’s work once the pup steps off the Studio 1A set. “I hope that whoever gets Wrangler down the road allows us to follow them for a bit so we can see how he impacts their life,” Lauer says. And don’t even think about what the studio will be like on Wrangler’s last day in the Orange Room. “It’s going to be a depressing time when he leaves,” Lauer says while playing with the pup. “Oops — that’s my tie!” The training continues for Wrangler. And, for Lauer, these early mornings promise to remain bright, provided Wrangler’s up for a gentle game of rope-toy tugging.

SAMANTHA IKAZAKI/NBC

ince Guiding Eyes for the Blind was founded in 1954, it has grown to be one of the foremost guide dog schools, says Michelle Brier, a spokeswoman for the non-profit that’s partnering with NBC’s Today to introduce viewers to guide dog work — as demonstrated by Wrangler and his handler, Saxon Eastman. More than 7,000 guide dogs have been matched with people with vision loss, but those numbers are growing. “With the aging Baby Boomer population, macular degeneration diagnoses will rise significantly over the next five years,” Brier says. The organization receives no government funding and provides all services free. guidingeyes.org

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ANIMAL BFFs

Cody

Lakewood, Colo.

PET GUIDE 2015

ANIMAL

BFFs

For kids with special needs, pets can make a difference STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER BENIT

ILLUSTRATIONS: THINKSTOCK

or years, anxiety kept Zach Tucker from getting to sleep. As the Colorado Springs sixth-grader remembers those nights, his voice shakes and he shields his eyes. Zach’s discomfort is Clyde’s cue. The chocolate Labrador springs to Zach’s side, nudging the boy with his paws. Zach’s voice calms, and he drops his hand to his devoted dog. “That’s Clyde at work,” says Zach’s mother, Susy Tucker. Smart, but suffering from social anxiety, Zach was 8 when doctors diagnosed him with high-functioning autism. Tucker and her husband, Arthur, sought animals to draw Zach out of his shell. A series of pets — a guinea pig, a rat and untrained dogs — followed, but they had little success. Then came Clyde. “He’s never had an anxiety night since,” Susy Tucker says. For Zach, this specially trained Labrador was the perfect fit. Clyde eases Zach’s social fears and helps him function in a world that sometimes seems overwhelming. While Clyde, trained as an advanced assistance dog by prisoners at the Colorado Correctional Industries K-9 Companion Program, is the right companion for Zach, experts say service dogs aren’t the only animals that help children with special needs. According to a recent University of Missouri study, autistic children form attachments to a variety of small pets — dogs, cats, even rabbits — and those with pets may develop stronger social and communication skills. It’s about unconditional love, says Gretchen Carlisle, a fellow at the University of Missouri’s Research Center for Human-Animal

Zach and Clyde Colorado Springs

ANIMAL BFFs

Clementine

Lakewood, Colo.

love.” “It’s about tcunhecon ndCaritlisiolena, l Gre er issouri research University of M

PET GUIDE 2015

Interaction. Researchers surveyed 70 parents of children ages 8 to 18 with autism, asking about the relationships between their family pets and the children. They found that having any kind of pet at home may increase a child’s assertiveness in social situations and their ability to make introductions and ask questions. Carlisle, the study’s author, says parents linked dog ownership to responsibility, companionship and stress relief. But, says Carlisle, “it wasn’t pet dogs alone.” Some parents reported their children had strong attachments to rabbits and cats. Cats are quieter and preferred by some children with sensory issues such as sensitivity to barks or smells. Rabbits are good for children who bond with more contained pets and want to sit quietly with them. “What was important was the uniqueness of their particular child,” Carlisle says. Sensory issues are key when selecting a pet for an autistic child, says Temple Grandin, a professor of animal science at Colorado State University who is renowned for her work in creating humane conditions for livestock. “(It’s) not one size fits all,” says Grandin, who is autistic. Every autistic child is different, and autism cases fall into a wide spectrum. “Some autistic kids will automatically be best buddies with a dog. But for some kids, a dog is not appropriate.” Dogs come with extra responsibilities like walking and feeding, which can benefit some kids, and they encourage more social interac-

Find A Friend

Linda and Spice Lakewood, Colo.

tion than cats, Grandin says.

MAKING THE RIGHT MATCH Pets can help children with a wide range of conditions and disabilities. At a small ranch in Lakewood, Colo., Linda Chassman, co-founder and executive director of Animal Assisted Therapy Programs of Colorado, is finding creative ways for clients to learn from animals. “Pets can help children deal with their frustrations,” Chassman says. “Pets can be frustrating, and sometimes therapy involves a frustrating animal, and so they learn to cope with those feelings.” Chassman has a menagerie of animals, used to help kids cope. The dogs are therapy dogs, not service animals, which are working dogs, not pets, that are specially trained to perform tasks to help handlers with a disability. Her dogs are about “a step and a half above obedience training,” Chassman says. Her other animal assistants — a cat, rats, horses, goats and rabbits — have no special training. They offer comfort and affection through qualities like playfulness, soft fur, a relaxing purr. In deciding which pet is the best match for a specific problem, Chassman starts by seeing which animal a child gravitates toward. Therapy rats Sugar, Spice and Ethel are popular — more so with children than with parents. Some children and teens appreciate that the friendly and playful rats defy stereotypes. Chassman uses the rats in empathy-building exercises. Children construct mazes and castles, which challenge them to consider their furry friends’ needs for sustenance and play.

oung Zach Tucker’s service dog, Clyde, was trained through Colorado Correctional Industries’ PrisonTrained K-9 Companion Program in 2011. The program rescues canines from shelters throughout Colorado and surrounding states. Prisoners train the dogs. Some become wellbehaved pets and others, like Clyde, graduate as advanced assistance dogs. Clyde was one of the first dogs trained specifically to assist a child with autism. • Prison dog programs are growing across the country. For many families, the cost of training a service dog is prohibitive. Colorado Correctional Industries charges a relatively inexpensive $550 adoption fee for each dog. • The American Kennel Club Rescue Network is the largest network of dog rescue groups in the country, with more than 450 groups located across the United States. Currently, 161 unique breeds are represented within the network. AKC’s national breed clubs spearhead the bulk of these rescue groups, with breeders and breed enthusiasts at the helm of rehabilitating, fostering and ultimately re-homing the dogs. • AKC’s Canine Good Citizen program is a groundbreaking training and certification program that stresses good manners for dogs and responsibility for owners. Since all therapy dogs need to be under control and have basic training, many therapy groups require that the dog pass the Canine Good Citizen test before taking the individual group’s therapy test. Dogs who take part in the program are taught basic good manners such as sitting quietly and moving calmly through crowds, as well as behaving politely around other dogs, plus commands including “sit,” “stay” and “down.”

ANIMAL BFFs

Clyde

Zach Tucker’s advanced s hi service dog, above, keeps m master calm and helps hi interact wit h peo ple.

Children with post-traumatic stress disorder and Tourette syndrome often connect with Clementine, a gentle but jumpy rescue cat. They relate to her anxiety and learn from her that fears and physical reactions are normal after a trauma, as is the desire for affection. “It’s important when choosing an animal that the animal chooses them as well,” Chassman says. Stuffed animals can act as substitutes to test a child’s readiness for a pet. If their reaction to the proxy is impulsive or aggressive, it’s not the right time to get a pet. But if a child is drawn to a stuffed horse, for example, the next step might be observing Chassman’s horse, Cody. Eventually, that child might work up to hugging the big horse.

DOGS KNOW BEST Zach Tucker is skeptical that other animals could help him as much as Clyde. “Pets don’t bond as much as service dogs,” he insists. Experts agree dogs do offer more reciprocal interaction than most other animals and act as an icebreaker among peers, and Zach credits Clyde with easing his anxieties and boosting his social life. “Finally the other kids figured out that being knowledgeable and smart is a good thing,” he says. Mom Susy agrees that Zach’s social skills have transformed since the family adopted Clyde, and another development resonates with her. Only 3 ½ weeks after getting Clyde, Zach started hugging her. Zach says he’s getting more used to embracing his mom again, especially since he likes to cuddle his pup. “I kinda have to,” he shrugs.

PET GUIDE 2015

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WHERE

CATS RULE AT THESE DESTINATIONS, IT’S CLEAR: THE CAT IS KING. BY DIANA LAMBDIN MEYER

WHEN BRUCE AND Amy Eckert of Holland, Mich., took their elementary school-

the girls’ interest. Ancient ruins, fountains and museums had little impact — until late one afternoon, when the family left the Colosseum and accidentally stumbled upon something equally fundamental to the history and culture of Rome.

PET GUIDE 2015

ILLUSTRATIONS: THINKSTOCK

aged daughters to Rome for “the trip of a lifetime,” it was a challenge to maintain

FILIPPO MONTEFORTE/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

All along the street and scattered among the ruins were dozens of small bowls. A few women, known as the gattare, were filling the bowls with pasta as hundreds of cats magically appeared from within the crumbling ruins of the Colosseum. The cats and their ancestors have been fixtures since the days of Caesar and are among hundreds of strays living in the ruins throughout the city. “There were all of these sweet cats eating bowls of pasta with spaghetti noodles hanging from their whiskered little mouths,” says Amy Eckert. “It really was the highlight of the trip and the girls’ best memory of Rome.” Cats are notoriously bad travelers. Unlike dogs, most cats prefer to stay home where they can rule their kingdom and servants (we pet owners) with confidence. So cat lovers who also love to travel must leave their pets behind. Don’t worry,

AROUND THE USA

ew cats on this planet live a life as good as the 40 or 50 that reside at The Ernest

Hemingway Home & Museum in Key West. These are six-toed cats, most descendants of a cat given to “Papa” by a ship’s captain in the 1930s. They are free to roam the property in places where visitors are not allowed, and they get exceptional veterinary care. Folks at the museum say about half of their visitors come to learn about the literary genius that was Hemingway, but just as many come to see the cats. Feel free to pet them, but don’t try to pick them up. The cats respond if they are in the mood, but what else is new? 907 Whitehead St., Key West; 305294-1136; hemingwayhome.com

visitors can get some furry love while exploring the world.

♦ A tourist takes a photo of a stray cat resting near the ancient Area Sacra ruins in Rome.

4 PETS 38 PET GUIDE GUIDE 2014 2015

Guests at Inn of the Six-Toed Cat in Allerton, Iowa, often arrive hoping to spot a distant cousin of the famous Hemingway felines. When this historic hotel was under renovation in the 1980s, a feral six-toed cat, oddly named Thomas Beckett, made her home on and under the porch, giving birth to a normal five-toed litter. Although her name still graces the inn, along with a mural on the side of one building, all that remains of that six-toed kitty are the descendants of her litter that play on the grounds. 200 N. Central Ave., Allerton, Iowa; 641-873-4900; 6toedcat.com

FILIPPO MONTEFORTE/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

though; at these unexpected destinations,

MIKE HENTZ, FOR USA TODAY

♦ A cat frolicks at The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum in Key West. It’s one of the famous felines that descended from a cat given to Hemingway in 1935.

PET GUIDE 2015

Cat lovers who travel frequently often lament that not being able to snuggle with their cats at bedtime is the worst part of being on the road. Forget kids and spouses. There’s nothing like a purring fur ball to lull you to sleep. Knowing that, the people at the Best Friends Animal Society in Kanab, Utah, coordinate sleepovers between resident cats and dogs and the humans who come to visit. With about 1,700 animals (about 650 of them are cats), Best Friends is one of the largest animal rescue facilities in the country. Come for a few hours of play, take a cat for a stroller ride, or commit to a few days of volunteer work. Stay on site in one of the cabins or cottages or coordinate with nearby hotels, which offer special packages. Book ahead by at least three months to guarantee lodging on site. 5001 Angel Canyon Rd., Kanab, Utah; 435-644-2001; bestfriends.org

BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL SOCIETY

♦ The Best

Friends Animal Society in Kanab, Utah, will let you come play with cats: You can walk the felines, left, or even push them in a baby stroller, right. It’s a great chance to hang out with a kitten that you can’t have at home. You can book rooms and stay, and volunteer if you want.

Guests who visit Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn in Big Sur, Calif., often clamor for a seat at Table 13 at the popular restaurant. That table is near the fireplace, and a cushioned seat there is the prime choice for Fabio, the inn’s most regal resident. Fabio, who blogs about life in the Big Sur area, is a 10-year-old short-haired domestic who has complete run of the property. Yes, he has his own bed, but if he chooses a different guest room for the night, scoot over and make room. 48865 Highway One, Big Sur, Calif.; 831-667-2378; deetjens.com

♦ A Victorian mansion of their own: The Purina Farms Pet Center outside St. Louis is a place for rescued cats to live in comfort and style. Next on the wellpampered feline list is the

Purina Farms Pet Center just outside St. Louis. The kitties here have all been adopted from area shelters and are living the good life now in their very own Victorianstyle mansion, which is about 20 feet tall with great big windows for lots of sunshine and napping, along with the latest cool cat toys. Some of the biggest cat shows in the Midwest are held here, so check the calendar to attend one of these events and learn more about what makes a cat think it is a superior creature. 200 Checkerboard Dr., Gray Summit, Mo.; 314-982-3232; purinafarms.com/visitors

Malcolm Matthews, the cat shown above, will put you to work when you visit his home, The Swag Country Inn, a luxury lodge in Waynesville, N.C. A brush hangs by the back door for guests to assist with Malcolm’s grooming. The 10-year-old tiger tabby also has his own Facebook page and roams the property at will. 2300 Swag Rd., Waynesville, N.C.; 828-926-0430; theswag.com

PET GUIDE 2015

AROUND THE WORLD

ACK TO ITALY, a cat lover’s destination. Federal legislation passed in 1991 makes it a crime to kill a stray cat because of the historical relationship between felines and the Roman culture. An aggressive spay/neuter campaign keeps the population under control, and everyone, especially tourists, are happy with their encounters. Still, it takes a lot of volunteers to take care of the estimated 300,000 cats living on the streets of Rome. Susan Wheeler of San Francisco was one of them in the 1990s, when her husband’s work took the family to Rome to live. She spent a couple of days a week at Torre Argentina, one of the more famous cat sanctuaries. After returning to the U.S., she and another volunteer founded Friends of Roman Cats, a non-profit that raises money for the efforts in Italy. Every couple of years, Wheeler leads a 10- to 12-day tour through Italy, visiting various sites where cat colonies are prevalent. Join her this October 2015. friendsofromancats.org

THE SWAG COUNTRY INN; GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/GETTYIMAGES

Those who enjoy winery tours and the wine regions of this country and beyond will recognize that cats hold a special place in the production of great vino. It is their job to patrol the grounds and keep the rodent population under control. Catching everything from mice to gophers that disrupt vineyards, cats are an aesthetic and organic method of critter control. The group, Forgotten Felines of Sonoma County, (forgottenfelines.com) is one agency that helps place feral cats with grape growers. Winery cats are so popular that they are the subject of their own book, published — ironically — by winedogs.com.

Moving is the best medicine. Keeping active and losing weight are just two of the ways that you can ﬁght osteoarthritis pain. In fact, for every pound you lose, that’s four pounds less pressure on each knee. For information on managing pain, go to ﬁghtarthritispain.org.

When visiting Amsterdam’s Canal District, be on the look out for the Catboat (in Dutch, de Poezenboot), which is a real boat that serves as a floating animal sanctuary. More than 100 cats enjoy the view and the company of travelers-turned-volunteers who will clean litter boxes and play with the kittens for a few hours. Singel 38.G, 1015 AB Amsterdam; depoezenboot.nl/en

COFFEE, TEA AND … CATS?

at cafés are popping up everywhere. The trendiest neighborhoods in the coolest cities all have them now. The phenomenon started a decade or so ago in Japan and Korea and quickly exploded around the world. In Tokyo alone, more than a dozen cat cafés treat visitors to hot tea, a cozy couch and dozens of four-legged kitties ready to play. Most cafés work in conjunction with non-profit pet adoption centers. They’re also great places where people who otherwise can’t have a cat at home can enjoy some time with furry friends. On weekends, it’s best to call ahead for reservations at these very popular play places. Cat Town Café: Adoptable cats roam the “cat zone,” freeing up space in the city’s over-crowded animal shelter. 2869 Broadway, Oakland; 510-891-1100; cattowncafe.com Denver Cat Company: Eight adoptable cats from partner rescues will keep you company as you tap into the free Wi-Fi. 3929 Tennyson

10 PETS GUIDE2015 2014 44 PET GUIDE

St., Denver; 303-4333422; denvercatco. com KitTea: Japanese tea in your cup and cats at your feet. What could be more relaxing? 96 Gough St., San Francisco; kitteasf.com Purrfect Café: Cats get food, water, toys and climbing trees at this Canadian café, which asks

guests to “respect kitty consent.” 331 Cooper St., Suite 200, Ottawa; ptsottawa.org/ purrfectcafe Purringtons Cat Lounge: Meet Julius, Peggy Sue, Patience and others while sipping jasmine tea. 3529 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Portland, Ore.; 503-334-3570; purringtonscatlounge. com

Discover more feline art in Rossiniére, Switzerland, a town dubbed “The Kingdom of Cats” thanks to its most famous resident: the artist Balthus, who loved painting cats. In the summer months of even-numbered years, the residents celebrate the Kingdom with individually crafted public cat art. In a village of 530 people, more than 100 pieces of art will decorate the streets at that time.

PURRINGTONS CAT LOUNGE

♦ Purringtons Cat Lounge in Portland, Ore., offers beverages, small bites and quality time with shelter cats.

If you love cats, but your love is unrequited because of allergies, satisfy your feline cravings with a visit to the Casa de los Gatos Museo in Lloret de Mar, on Spain’s Mediterranean coast northeast of Barcelona. The museum does not include a single living, breathing furball, but instead displays high-end art in a variety of media that celebrate the feline figure. From Swarovski to Faberge, the cat relics can be quite pricy. Others reflect folk art and the playful side of kittens. C/Sant Albert 10, Lloret de Mar, Spain; catsmuseum.com

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HOME ALONE Minimize the stress of your pup riding solo B Y ALL ISON EN TREK IN

PET GUIDE 2015

THINKSTOCK; PHOTO ILLUSTRATONS: ERIN AULOV

E’VE ALL DONE IT: SWALLOWED OUR GUILT AND BID A SAD FAREWELL TO OUR POOCH … for a few hours so we could run errands or go to work. Yes, Fluffy

and Fido would prefer we never leave their sides (we’d actually prefer it, too), but this is real life and we can’t bring our dogs everywhere we go. So, what can we do to make our exits easier on our furry friends — and on us? How can we minimize their anxiety until we come back? WE ASK THE EXPERTS. ▶

HOME ALONE

✗ DON’T stay away too long.

✓ DO prepare your dog before you go.

If your dog isn’t used to you being gone, ease him into it. Start with quick trips to the grocery store, and if he responds well, gradually add an hour to your errands, then another, then another. “Like humans, dogs are able to adapt,” says Cesar Millan, aka the Dog Whisperer, a New York Times-bestselling author of six dog books and the host of Cesar 911. Most experts agree that you shouldn’t leave your adult dog alone for more than eight to 10 hours, but some dogs (especially ones with small bladders) can’t last that long. Instead of opting for a one-sizefits-all approach, pay attention to your dog’s unique personality as well as its breed to determine how long you can stay away.

With the hectic pace of our lives, we can sometimes be so rushed that we forget, or don’t take the time, to give our dogs adequate exercise and a potty break before we head out the door. Sandi Laird, animal care director at Operation Kindness (the largest nokill shelter in north Texas), says pet owners should remember that not every dog relieves herself the minute she walks outside. “Be sure to give your dog ample time to do his or her business, so neither of you have any unpleasant surprises (when you arrive home),” Laird advises. And although it’s important to leave fresh water for your dog every day, don’t set out more than she’ll need, especially if she’s prone to overdrinking to relieve anxiety.

✗ DON’T leave temptations within reach. If your dog has an affinity for chewing electrical wires, cover them up. If getting into the garbage is his No. 1 hobby, make sure the trash can is hidden away. Remember to put all medications and cleaning products out of reach and lock cabinets and doors as needed. Just as parents must baby-proof their homes, pet owners need to dog-proof the areas where they allow their pups to roam. And if your pooch is upset that you’re ruining his fun? “It’s helpful to have a selection of proper toys to keep your dog from getting too bored,” says dog-product developer Gary Castelle. “Choose ones that are highly durable and can be safely left with a pet as opposed to ones that present a choking hazard.” Keep in mind, if your dog has gone to the bathroom and exercised, he’ll most likely want to rest in a comfortable spot where he recognizes your scent. Make sure he has easy access to such a place.

PET GUIDE 2015

DOGGIE DAY CARE 101

✓ DO turn on the TV. If you’re one of those people who thinks your dog prefers Animal Planet to opera while you’re away, go for it. “I have this one guy who always has (ESPN’s) SportsCenter on for his dog,” says Catherine Adamo, owner of Royal Oak Dog Walkers in Royal Oak, Mich. “I’ve seen Law & Order: SVU reruns on for the dog. It’s funny that there are people who turn a channel on that they think their dog would watch.”

If your dog has gone to the bathroom and exercised, he’ll most likely want to rest in a comfortable spot where he recognizes your scent.

If you need to leave your little guy for an extended period of time, consider a doggie day care center. Staffed by certified pet trainers and pet care techs and filled with toys, obstacle courses and plenty of barking friends, these centers will leave your pooch happy — and exhausted. To find the doggie daycare that’s right for you, do your homework. Ask the staff for client referrals, and poll your in-the-know friends and family about the place. Inquire with the owners about how they group dogs together for playtime (it should be no more than 10 to a group, and the pups should be of similar size) and what kind of activities they offer. Pay attention to the environment: If they’re taking proper care of the facility, it’s a good indicator they’ll take care of your dog, too. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, ask for a trial run. Leave Fluffy there for two hours, then ask how he did. Before you let him see you, observe his behavior from afar. Is he anxious or playing? Aggressive or relaxed? If you can tell from his body language he’s having a great time, you just might have found the right place.

HOME ALONE

✓ DO confine your dog if necessary. Some dogs, especially high-anxiety ones, actually feel more relaxed if they’re inside a crate or in a room enclosed by baby gates. “Dogs like ends,” says Joel Silverman, host of the syndicated television series What Color Is Your Dog? “They’re happy in a secluded place where they feel safe.” If your dog is crated, make sure it’s for no longer than four to five hours at a time (any longer could affect Bella’s mental and physical health) and that you leave her with water (attach a bottle dispenser to the crate as a bowl can create a mess), a cozy place to curl up and a toy. “People have all these negative feelings about crates, but many dogs prefer them,” insists Art Ortiz, the owner of DogFit Dallas and a mentee of Millan. “That’s why I don’t refer to it as a cage. I call it ‘casa.’ It’s their house; it’s their zen pen.”

WHEN DOGS HAVE THE RUN OF THE HOUSE … Ever wonder what your pup is up to while you’re out of the house? Check out these popular online videos of dogs making the best of their owners’ absence.

▲ lifebuzz.com/dog-on-bed A dog who is not allowed on the bed happily rebels. youtube.com watch?v=O_J-XwrYSzw This is what you want to avoid by all means when you aren’t at home and pup is.

A dog can sense his owner’s anxiety. If you want your pup to be calm when you leave, don’t act nervous yourself. “If every time a human detaches from a dog he feels bad about it, how can the dog ever associate detaching with happiness?” Millan asks. “Your dog is sensitive to your energy and emotions.” “If you keep loudly repeating, ‘I love you so much,’ or ‘I’ll be home after work,’ you’re exciting your dog and then shutting the door,” says Ortiz. “The dog is thinking, ‘We’re playing!’ And then you leave. It’s way better to leave quietly and without too much drama.” Likewise, when you return home, don’t forget to tell your dog how happy you are to see him. Because as any pet owner knows, he’ll never forget to tell you. — Lambeth Hochwald contributed

PET GUIDE 2015

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LEADER OF THE PACK

Art Ortiz, owner of DogFit Dallas, takes his string of charges for a walk in downtown Dallas.

PET GUIDE 2015

LEADER

OF THE PACK Think you have what it takes to wrangle multiple dogs at one time? Established dog walkers share the secrets of going pro. BY LAMBETH HOCHWALD

ELIZABETH LAVIN

his past summer, as Catherine Adamo was waiting for her social worker’s license to arrive, she started dog walking as a way to make extra money. Within weeks, word spread, and she found herself flooded with requests for her services. Suffice to say, her career in social work is currently on hold. “I decided to put all of my energy into this start-up,” says Adamo, who launched Royal Oak Dog Walkers in Royal Oak,

Mich., last June. “I now have a full schedule of 12 dogs to walk every day, and I even hired someone to help me out. I’m happy to say that I love what I do, too.” Welcome to the world of dog walking, a field that’s growing — and growing more sophisticated — by the day. Gone are the days when local teenagers were hired to to walk the dog after school. Today’s dog walkers communicate with owners via social media, traipse around the neighborhood with multiple leashes

David Levin takes his dog clients to the beach in San Francisco, where his Citizen Hound company is based.

PET GUIDE 2015

and partner with local groomers to grow their businesses. “There’s a big misconception that there isn’t much money in this,” says David Levin, owner of Citizen Hound, a 5-yearold company in San Francisco. “These are very big businesses.” Most days, you’ll find Levin and his team of six employees walking 65 to 72 dogs, some six at a time, to a dog-friendly beach. “We group the same group of six dogs together every day,” says Levin. “This helps to cut down on any conflicts.” If all of this sounds dreamy and you’re tempted to drop everything and start a

dog-walking company, keep in mind that this job isn’t for everyone. As a dog walker, you can’t call in sick, you have to endure the outdoor elements and cope with whatever quirks a dog may have — and whatever waste they leave behind. “The majority of the time, this is a great job,” says Art Ortiz, owner of DogFit Dallas, a dog-walking company that now cares for 75 dogs. “Still, you have to consider everything when deciding if this is right for you. Don’t forget: You also have to deal with it if a dog has eaten something they shouldn’t have or makes a mess in the house. That’s definitely part of the job.”

KALYN CHOMKO

LEADER OF THE PACK

READY TO WALK? If you’re considering branching out from walking one dog (yours) to starting a business in which you walk other people’s dogs, read on for tips on how to do it right. • Treat two-legged and four-legged customers the same. “People say that dog walking is a business for animal-lovers only,” says Asha Olivia, founder of Hoby Dogy, a dog-walking company based in Hoboken, N.J. “That’s not true. You have to love humans as well as their pets. This is important to remember because you should consider yourself an extension of the family.” • See this as a relationship business. Your goal is to connect with your customer, says David Levin. “I spend more time writing emails, working logistics, talking on the phone and meeting people than I might be doing the dog walking itself,” he says. “Everything I do is with the goal of keeping my clients happy and exceeding their expectations.” • Study the competition. This is especially important if you’re planning to start a dog-walking business in an urban setting. “I focused on my

PET GUIDE 2015

competitors and what their brands were like,” Olivia says. “Then I created a yoga-inspired pet care concept that I knew would be very different from everyone else.” • Network with allied businesses. Visit pet groomers in your neighborhood and connect with other dog walkers. “Go out and meet other people who have already started a company,” Levin says. “Most people started as employees and will show you the ropes if they know you’re not planning to open right in their area. One great tip: Offer to cover for a dog walker who might need a break. Everyone needs a vacation — I’ve talked to dog walkers who haven’t had a vacation in seven years.” • Harness social media. Maintaining a Facebook page and Instagram feed for clients to see their dogs while they’re at work is key. Katherine Adamo of Royal Oak, Mich., asks her customers up front if she can include

their dogs on Facebook and Instagram pages. Most of her clients love it. “They like seeing the photos, commenting on them and staying connected,” she says. She also uses an app called Doggy Logs to connect to customers. “When I start the walk, it tracks our route, and the dog’s owner gets an email with a map of where we went, the time we started and a photo of the dog,” she says. “There’s an option for me to write a note, and I’ll do that if something unusual occurs on the walk. It’s been such a hit with my customers and puts them at ease.” • Know local rules and regulations. In certain cities, dog walkers may be required to purchase liability insurance and apply for a permit. Some places require a person be bonded and insured by the Pet Sitters Association. In in other cities, owners are required to take a dog walking class and, often, learn animal first aid.

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LEADER OF THE PACK

Catherine Adamo put a social work career on hold to open Royal Oak Dog Walkers in Royal Oak, Mich. She handles 12 dogs a day.

TEST YOUR SKILLS If you’ve always loved dogs and are thinking about pursuing the passion full-time, start by testing the waters with these activities, recommends Kathryn Lisko, a training and onboarding project specialist at Rover.com, a website that connects dog owners to dog boarders, dog walkers or dog sitters for hire:

PET GUIDE 2015

around your building or neighborhood and see if you can dog sit for someone. This might include walking a dog or having a dog stay at your house.

• Post your dog-sitting services. To test out a career change, ask

• Work in a pet store. You’ll get the opportunity to mix and mingle with

dog owners and their pets. • Apprentice for a dog groomer. “You’ll need more training to become a groomer,” Lisko says. “A first step would be to see if there are jobs working the front desk or even doing clean up.”

COURTESY OF CATHERINE ADAMO

• Consider the Humane Society. “See if you can start out as a volunteer,” Lisko says. “I’ve seen volunteers translate that experience into a paid position.”

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Andrew Dost, left, and members of fun. perform at The Robin Hood Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2014 Benefit at Jacob Javits Center in New York City.

Andrew Dost creates Sweet Dog Tunes The Grammy-winning artist from fun. composes canine carols BY HOLLIE DEESE

PET GUIDE 2015

Wired for Hound

BRAD BARKET/GETTY IMAGES; THINKSTOCK

Dogs aren’t hot on pop music or jazz or heavy metal. Give classical music a try, with not too many instruments in play, and they’ll be happy.

ulti-instrumentalist Andrew Dost has always had an ear for composition — even at the tender age of 4 or 5, when he wrote his first song on a little Casio keyboard. Now he’s putting aside his human success with the indie rock band fun. — We

Are Young won the 2013 Grammy Award for Song of the Year and the band won Best New Artist — and his work scoring for film and TV shows, including MTV’s Faking It and the HBO documentary It’s Me, Hilary: The Man Who Drew Eloise (about artist Hilary Knight). Yep, Dost is switching focus to man’s best friend. He’s making fans in the

Fido crowd now. It all started when Dost began watching DOGTV — the unique 24/7 channel that’s made to entertain dogs and keep them company. Taken in by the soothing tunes and visuals, he wondered what it would be like to write music for non-human ears. So he reached out to ask about composing tracks. “I was watching the

channel so much, I thought maybe this is something everyone could enjoy,” says 32-year-old Dost, who first turned the programs on for his own pup, Baron. Getting the green light for the collaboration challenged Dost to compose in a whole new way. “(The channel’s creators) had a really helpful set of guidelines in terms of

D OG S

what dogs like to hear, what frequencies, what instruments they have been proven to respond to,” he says. “I worked within these parameters of what is shown scientifically to be pleasing to a dog, and tried to make melodies and sounds that would also be pleasing to humans.” The result is two scores for DOGTV’s relaxation segments, with the music set to scenes filmed in Yosemite, Calif. The visuals and music help soothe pooches. Ron Levi, co-founder of DOGTV, is pleased. “When (Dost) sent us some tracks, I was blown away. It was amazing and really exactly what we were looking for. The thing with him is, he understands dogs and understands people and is a great musician. He has created really high-quality songs that cater to both people and dogs.”

MUSIC TO SOOTHE THE SAVAGE BEAST Research shows that psychoacoustic music calms dogs, so DOGTV’s relaxation segments feature original music that is simply arranged at 50 to 70 beats per minute (BPM) and in a low octave. Dost’s tracks are mainly arranged with harp and piano, as well as with repetitive electronic undertones. Writing songs for dogs has been good for him, too. “Whenever I am composing music, I love to have rules and restrictions,” Dost

says. “It is a helpful tool to be creative within a framework of guidelines.” He insists he’s been able to apply what he learned writing for dogs to other aspects of his musical life. “If you are making music for ears that are evolved to hear different kinds of sounds, it presents new kinds of challenges,” Dost explains. “The DOGTV stuff has been super helpful because it has helped me to look at things from a slightly different angle.”

COLLABORATION CONTINUES Dost is working on an album of music for pooches — and humans — out this summer. Inspired by Brian Eno’s 1978 ambient classic Music for Airports, he wants DOGTV involved as well as a variety of guest collaborators. “Stuff that humans and dogs could enjoy listening to together,” Dost says of the record. “If you have a dinner party, you don’t want your dog freaking out. You want something that is mellow for your guests but also mellow for your dog.” And it’s about to get even more interactive, with Levi and Dost planning an outdoor festival later this year in California (keep an eye out for the details) for dogs and their owners. “It will be a huge music concert with Andrew on stage and other musicians playing a score for dogs,” Levi says. “It is a Dogapalooza, and we are excited about it.” j

What works for dogs? Dr. Nicholas Dodman, director of the animal behavior department of clinical sciences at Tufts University, helped determine the proper programming for DOGTV, based on more than 50 studies about what canines hear, see and how they behave. Here’s the basics: Genre: Dogs are disinterested in pop music, turn their noses up at jazz and wholly dislike heavy metal. They prefer classical music, which tends to soothe them. Simplicity: Dogs need simple, slow arrangements; nothing too complicated. The simpler, the greater the relaxed response. Instruments: Too many instruments can confuse dogs. A few solo instruments, mainly piano with harp, which is considered a meditative instrument, played in a repetitive way work best.

You can hear relaxation segments featuring Dost’s music on DOGTV or through the DOGTV Anywhere app (dogtv.latto.tv/howitworks. aspx). For more information, visit dogtv.com. 64

PET GUIDE 2015

TOP: DOGTV; THINKSTOCK

Tempo: 50-70 BPM, which matches the resting heart rate of a pregnant dog.

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Calm Your Pup 5 ways to help your anxious canine relax BY MARY HELEN BERG

H! S AY A H

re A miniatu ts nd ge u sh h c a d ase ture to e acupunc . in a p back

PET GUIDE 2015

f your pup cowers during thunderstorms or gnaws the furniture while you’re at work, he may be one of millions of dogs made miserable by anxiety. About 17 percent of dogs suffer from separation anxiety, while others cringe at sounds, strangers and passing cars. Prescription medication can help, and in 2012, about 2.8 million owners gave pills to their pups to treat anxiety, depression and compulsive disorders, according to the American Pet Products Association. But if you’d like to calm your canine without medication, there are plenty of non-traditional approaches to try. Just remember to consult your vet before beginning any treatment, medication or otherwise, says Dr. Bonnie Beaver, executive director of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists.

ADAM PRETTY/GETTY IMAGES; TRACIE HOTCHNER; THINKSTOCK

THE NOSE KNOWS Calming aids that mimic the smell of a mother dog can help with behavioral issues. Some products, such as the Sentry Calming Collar, re-create that comforting scent with an infusion of dog appeasing pheromone (DAP). The soothing fragrance also comes in a diffuser or spray. Botanical essences can be used as aromatherapy for anxious dogs, says Dr. Rick Palmquist, past president of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Foundation. “I’ll just open a bottle of lavender oil and wave it in the air two or three times, put the cap back on and put it away,” says Palmquist, who sees patients in Los Angeles. “You can actually see the dog’s muscles relax.”

PINS AND NEEDLES The ancient Chinese practice of acupuncture has been used to treat stress and other canine health problems. An acupuncturist will place fine needles anywhere from tip to tail, depending on your dog’s needs. Treatment is generally painless, although your dog may wince if a needle hits a tender spot. You can find a certified veterinary acupuncturist through the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture (aava.org).

Tracie Hotchner, of Benington, Vt., uses Adaptil collars to reduce the stress of introducing new dogs to her home, above. Hotchner is a nationally acclaimed pet wellness advocate.

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M U S IC PY THERA

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SOOTHING TUNES Music soothes the savage beast — and the anxious B boxer. Pet Acoustics, Through A Dog’s Ear and other companies offer music collections specifically developed to calm dogs. Invest in portable, pre-loaded speakers, a CD or a collar device that makes it possible for your dog to listen to tunes at home, in the car or on a walk.

HANDS-ON HEALING Pet massage is a real thing. You can try your hand at it after watching videos online, or search out a certified therapist via the International Association of Animal Massage & Bodywork (members.iaamb.org). Reiki, a non-invasive healing technique from Japan, is another healing technique that can be used on dogs. “Reiki induces deep relaxation and stress reduction and over time can reduce the tendency toward nervousness,” says Ellen Jones, a Reiki practitioner in West Boylston, Mass.

Meg Cavanough, above, plays a guitar for her dog, Dude. The tunes help, but it’s a plugin diffuser with dog-appeasing pheromones that calms Dude when she is away.

Your dog can dress for stress with wearable, researchbacked anxiety-relief products. The ThunderShirt and Anxiety Wrap are coat-style products that gently hug your dog, helping with storm phobia, separation anxiety, travel stress and other issues. The ThunderCap, which works a bit like a falcon’s hood, reduces stimuli by limiting an excitable dog’s vision. Mutt Muffs are soundreduction earmuffs that mute loud noises, perfect for thunderstorms and the Fourth of July. CalmzRX, a collar device that emits gentle tones and vibrations, helps settle dogs during stressful times.

PET GUIDE 2015

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Mini Mutts, Petite Pups It’s a (teeny) dog’s life BY STACEY FREED

h, to be a diminutive dog: movies, theater, sporting events, restaurants, parties, travel, glamorous outfits — all while hanging with your loving and devoted companions. “Gigi (an 8-year-old teacup poodle) goes absolutely everywhere with us,” says Linda Cohen, who lives in Boca Raton, Fla. “She’s very social. What can I tell you? I’m a crazy person. I love my dog.” Cohen’s not alone. Seems like everywhere you look, there’s a wet button nose peeking from the top of a tote bag. A recent American Veterinary Medical Association survey revealed that petite pooches were the most common among pet parents, with 39.3 percent classify-

PET GUIDE 2015

ing their dogs as small (compared to 33.4 percent medium and 27.3 percent large). And while Labrador retrievers are still the No. 1 most popular dog, according to the American Kennel Club, for the first time in 100 years, the French bulldog broke into the 2014 top-10 list, sitting pretty at No. 9. (The scrappy Yorkshire terrier held fast at No. 6; alas, the plucky dachshund dropped from 10th in 2013 to 11th.)

barking, lunging or other behaviors that lead to a stereotypical ‘ankle-biter,’” says Jme Thomas, who runs Motley Zoo Animal Rescue in Redmond, Wash. How energetic are you? “Boston terriers tend to have tumors and breathing problems. That’s not the dog you’re going to go jogging with,” says Dr. Kenneth Cohn, a house-call vet in Tucson.

GOOD THINGS, SMALL PACKAGES

Research breeds, and find one with a temperament that fits you and your family. Linda Tack, a travel director for Van Zile Travel in Rochester, N.Y., has multiple sclerosis and can’t handle a big dog. “I can’t exercise much. My dogs (two shih tzus) help me get up in the morning and get out the door, and they’re low-maintenance.” While you can’t stereotype breeds, “some have the reputation for being more difficult,” admits Melissa Cocola, owner of Positive K9 and a certified master trainer in Walworth, N.Y. “Some terriers can be tenacious and intolerant of small children.” Regardless of breed, the key to happiness with your little dog is socialization, Thomas advises. “Teach your little dog that the world is not a big, scary place.”

They’re cute. Their food bills are small — as are their poops. They’re portable. They’re fun to dress up. They don’t need a lot of space. They tend to live longer than bigger breeds. But is a small dog right for you? Assess your family and lifestyle and then find a breed that’s most compatible. Small dogs are called “lap dogs” for a reason; they want to be near you — or on you. What about your living space? Some condos have pet weight limits. And will you have time to train them? “You can’t let your dog get away with things like play mouthing (good-natured nipping that doesn’t really hurt but is annoying and unmannered), tugging at clothing, growling,

DECISIONS, DECISIONS

Little Paws There’s no real standard for the “small dog” moniker; the heaviest of the American Kennel Club’s toy breeds is the pug, which tops out at 18 pounds. “The remainder of the toy breeds weigh significantly less, with several being under 7 pounds,” says AKC public relations director Hillary Prim. Most people agree a small dog means a dog a person can easily lift.

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LITTLE LOVES Lap dogs aren’t just a Real Housewife’s best friend.

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Ease the Sneeze

Pets develop allergies just like the rest of us, but there are ways to help them cope with the sniffly, scratchy, watery-eye triggers

n 2014, Dawn Roberts’ bichon frise, Abby, suddenly began scratching so much she developed red, scabby patches. “Abby smelled, and she looked terrible,” Roberts recalls. The problem persisted even after the Roberts’ home in Chuluota, Fla., was treated for fleas. Special shampoos and herbal sprays didn’t help. It was only when Roberts put Abby on a raw

PET GUIDE 2015

diet of duck and freeze-dried rabbit that the little dog improved. Abby was 10, proving that animals, like people, can develop allergies at any age. If your pet has symptoms — scratching, sneezing, coughing, watery eyes or irritated skin — you may need to do a little sleuthing to get to the root of the problem. “If your pet is allergic to the shampoo you

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“I was spending $2,000 a year for injections, steroids and vet visits,” Capaldi recalls. When Capaldi went on a paleo diet, eating only raw or unprocessed foods to help with her multiple sclerosis, she put Rita on the plan, too. With meals consisting of kangaroo and sweet potatoes, Rita improved so much that steroids weren’t needed. A limited diet can be therapeutic, says Marshall. To try it with your dog, add one protein and one carbohydrate source at a time to see how the pet reacts. Callie Zamzow, CEO of Dynamite Specialty Products, which makes feed and animal supplements, had her munsterlander, Trouper, on a corn- and wheat-free diet when he developed itchy skin and sores. She bought new cleaning supplies and changed his food. But only the vet-prescribed topical cream would stop his scratching. Then Zamzow realized the dog had been raiding a cat litter box filled with a new wheatbased kitty litter. When the litter was gone, so were the allergies. Treats, table scraps, medications — including heartworm treatments — and vitamins can all be landmines for susceptible pets. Marshall recommends keeping a diary to see when symptoms flare and what may have caused them. Pet owners also need to be vigilant about flea prevention; just one bite can cause dermatitis, she says. And be patient. “Have I seen dogs with no hair re-grow that hair? Yes, I have,” she says. “But six months is a long time, so you have to be in it for the long haul.”

A limited diet can help your allergic dog. Add a single protein and one carbohydrate source at a time. Carefully watch how the pet reacts.

PET GUIDE 2015

Common Irritants Fleas and other parasites can really bother your dog. Just one bite from a flea can cause dermatitis.

If your pet has problems after playing in the grass each spring, you’ve likely found the culprit.

Foods such as beef, wheat or corn can also cause allergic reactions.

Pollen can cause itchy, watery eyes and sneezing for dogs, but scratching is the most common symptom.

If your dog sneezes at your new shampoo, get a different one.

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bought, stop using the shampoo,” says Dr. Kemba L. Marshall, a Phoenix veterinarian and director of merchandising, pet quality and education for PetSmart. If the animal has problems after playing in the grass each spring, you’ve likely found the culprit. But it may take some work to figure out what’s causing the problem. Scratching is often the first sign of an allergy. Your animal may lick and bite its paws or rub its face, leading to hair loss around the eyes. You might notice moist red lesions, known as hot spots, on his or her skin, and if the allergy continues, your pet could develop a secondary bacterial infection. “You may observe an odor to the skin, body or ears,” says Marshall. If allergies are causing the problem, the vet may prescribe antiinflammatories and antihistamines to treat the allergies, and antibiotics or antifungals to treat infections. Common irritants for animals include grass, pollen and certain foods such as beef, wheat or corn. Pets may also react to fleas and other parasites. And certain animal breeds are more susceptible to certain allergens. For instance, Roberts decided to try the raw diet when she learned that bichons might react to dog food containing chicken products. Another pet owner, V. Capaldi, saw results when she changed the diet of her dachshund, Rita, who developed a skin condition after moving to Venice Beach, Calif., from Delaware. The vet said the warm, seaside environment caused Rita’s skin issues.

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D OG S DOGS

In Sickness and in Health The cost of taking a dog to the doc

et insurance can cut the cost of caring for your dog, providing coverage for your pet’s most expensive needs. But some dogs spend more time at the vet’s office than others. Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI) says these breeds have the highest average claims per year:

2 Newfoundland 3 Rottweiler

4 English cocker spaniel 5 Doberman pinscher 6 Great Dane

7 Rhodesian ridgeback 8 Weimaraner

9 French bulldog

10 Basset hound

$1,361.40 $1,294.36 $1,186.46 $1,171.90 $1,163.19 $1,126.85 $1,122.29 $1,111.09 $1,087.08 $1,064.38

11 Standard smooth-haired dachshund

$1,056.10

12 Miniature dachshund

$1,051.99

13 American bulldog 14 Greyhound

15 English bulldog

16 Standard poodle 17 Wheaten terrier

18 Labrador retriever 19 Pit bull 20 Boxer

21 Beagle

22 Golden retriever 23 Bichon frise

24 English springer spaniel 25 Cairn terrier

$1,047.50 $1,020.73 $1,016.63 $1,011.58 $1,003.45 $987.54 $965.77 $963.62 $961.73 $960.65 $956.81 $954.46 $953.17

SOURCE: VETERINARY PET INSURANCE. DATA BASED ON THE AVERAGE TOTAL AMOUNT CLAIMED PER YEAR BY EACH SPECIFIC BREED BETWEEN 2011 AND 2013 (REIMBURSEMENTS ARE NOT INCLUDED). SAMPLE SIZE RANGED FROM 2,000 TO 60,000+ PER BREED.

PET GUIDE 2015

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1 Bernese mountain dog

CATS

view all 69 comments waterrocks_ And a sweet photo for your wall

The Making of a STAR Meet Sauerkraut, a social media darling with a message BY ALEXA ROGERS

PET GUIDE 2015

(@thesauerkrautkitty) has gained more than 36,000 followers on Instagram in the past year. This famous-cat-in-the-making could be considered a next-gen star: These days you have to be more than cute. You have to tell a good story, too.

A SPECIAL FOSTER CAT Sauerkraut’s story includes health issues and a message for fans on the importance of animal fostering and adoption. Amy Bender, and her husband, Patrick, brought Sauerkraut home as a foster cat from the Oklahoma City Animal Shelter in January 2014. They had been caring for cats in this way for five years, and they immediately recognized that Sauerkraut

THINKSTOCK; COURTESY OF AMY BENDER

ove over humans! Cute photos of pets have taken over the Internet and the world just can’t get enough. From Grumpy Cat (given name Tardar Sauce), the perpetually frowning feline who has her own manager, look-alike dolls and a registered trademark, to Boo the Dog, the “world’s cutest dog” whose Facebook page has 16.7 million “likes,” pets win at social media. And there’s a new star waiting in the wings. Meet Sauerkraut. Hailed as the next Grumpy Cat for her similarly sour-faced expression, Sauerkraut

had special needs. “She doesn’t meow and she isn’t bothered by strange people or car rides. These things mean she doesn’t react to danger and could easily get into trouble,” Amy Bender says. It turns out that Sauerkraut has feline hyperesthesia syndrome (FHS), which causes short outbursts of odd behavior. She is known to scratch, bite or groom obsessively and run around frantically. The syndrome can also cause the skin on an affected cat’s back to appear to ripple and roll because the muscle overreacts to stimulation. Treatments for FHS can include anti-seizure and anti-anxiety medications. But because Sauerkraut also has a heart murmur, Bender has looked for alternative therapies. She had heard that dressing cats in clothing could soothe the symptoms and reduce FHS episodes — so she put the theory to the test.

a day posing for photos and is rewarded with treats. “I try to post every 3 to 4 hours, from 8 a.m. to about 10 p.m.,” Bender says. “I usually take several photos of her in the morning, after I change her clothes. I’ll then take some more in the afternoon and again while she’s relaxing with her Pops.” “Pops” is Patrick Bender, with whom Sauerkraut “chats” in online “Dispatches from Pops” blog posts. Sauerkraut discusses her favorite fellow famous kitties and the shelter cats she calls “heroes.” She can get a little sassy and mischievous, demanding treats and then leaving bugs in dad’s shoes when he doesn’t deliver.

While cute and fun, the outfits Sauerkraut’s known for play a large role in maintaining her health. “It worked amazingly well,” Amy Bender says. “It The cat diva favors SOCIAL MEDIA calms most of her episodes pastel-colored clothing that makes DARLING and provides a barrier her feel better. Online pictures of Saubetween her skin and pointy erkraut show her dolled up bites.” The cat now has a in kitty sweatshirts, ruffled wardrobe bigger than most dresses, tutus and holiday costumes. humans, at more than 75 outfits. While her outfits say “cute,” the look on The Benders continue to foster kittens her face clearly reads “not amused.” from the Oklahoma City Animal Shelter, Originally, Bender made Sauerkraut a and some appear with Sauerkraut in her Facebook page to try to find an appropriposts and on a 24/7 live feed of a foster ate adoptive parent for the special-needs room in their home. Caring for the cats in cat. But soon the family decided Sauerperson and online amounts to a full-time kraut was staying put, and adopted her. job for Bender, but she’s glad to send Bender started an Instagram account, out a positive message about fostering and the snarky-looking cat was an animals, adoption and volunteer work. instant hit. She scored more than 28,000 Sauerkraut thinks so, too. followers in just one year, using popular “When I grow up, I want to be hashtags #catsofinstagram, #weeklyfluff an ambassador for rescued kitties,” and #catrequest. Being featured on the Sauerkraut “says” on her blog. “Everyone popular cat account @cats_of_instagram deserves a warm home and snuggles and really boosted her following. there are way too many kitties like me in Sauerkraut spends about 10 minutes the shelters.” j

Sauerkraut is pretty in pink

COURTESY OF AMY BENDER

CLOTHING FOR CARE

5 TIPS

TO MAKE YOUR PET FAMOUS

uGive your pet a voice. While a picture tells 1,000 words, it can be fun to read what an animal may be thinking, too. There’s a reason the “Hello. Yes, This is Dog” meme makes people LOL. uLabel your photos with hashtags. Amy Bender gained many followers when a popular Instagram account featured Sauerkraut after picking up one of her hashtags (#catsofinstagram, for example). Always hashtag your photos and tweets so aggregate sites can see and share your content. uExplore your pet’s unique qualities. Finding a niche is important. If your pet, like Sauerkraut, likes to dress up, embrace that. If it likes to sleep in funny places, make that your go-to. uKnow that it takes work and time to build an online following. Bender commits most of her time to caring for her cats and promoting Sauerkraut. Stay dedicated now for a payoff later. uShare a message. While Sauerkraut enjoys joking around, she also sends out an important message on the value of fostering and adopting pets — even those with special needs. A celebrity pet can have a platform just like any other star. 79

CATS

101

The framing, lighting and camera settings that will give you the purrfect shot

BY JOHNNY YU

or some reason, people really like taking pictures of cats

and posting them online. Long after human civilization crumbles to dust, alien archaeologists will tap into our primitive (by their standards) worldwide information network and conclude that felines must have ruled the planet. And while itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a trivial matter to snap a pic of Fluffy sleeping in a weird way to show your Facebook friends, capturing quality and professionallooking photos of her yawning or chasing a leaf is an entirely different animal. Take advice from professional pet photographers to get it right.

PET GUIDE 2015

COUNTERCLOCKWISE FROM TOP: BEN KEOUGH; LISA M. ZILKA; JOHNNY YU; BEN KEOUGH (2); JOHNNY YU

Cat Pics

TIP #1: BE READY Photography is about capturing moments — the exact action, emotion or atmosphere of a sliver of time. Your little furball will provide plenty of those moments, but you need to be ready for them. This means not only having your camera on, but making sure your settings are right for the situation. If Mittens is about to do something awesome, she’s not going to give you time to tweak your shutter speed, ISO or aperture settings. (If you don’t know what those are, get up to speed, or stick to your point-and-shoot.) Josh Norem, a professional pet photographer also known as the Furrtographer, told Digital Trends how he takes his close-ups: Shoot in aperture priority mode and use the widest possible aperture setting. He recommends narrowing the aperture a little if you’re so close to the subject that its nose is out of focus.

TIP #2: GET DOWN According to professional pet photographer Zoran Milutinovic, one of the most obvious tricks is actually something people tend to overlook: Get down on the cat’s level. In fact, go lower than that, if possible. Angle is an incredibly important consideration for photographers. A high-angle shot, such as when you’re looming over your cat and shooting downwards, has a tendency to diminish the subject and make it look smaller. If you shoot from a lower angle and point your camera up, your subject looks more powerful and significant. Guess which one kitty prefers.

JOHNNY YU

TIP #3: GO FOR THE EYES When looking at photographs of people, our attention generally focuses on the eyes first. Both Norem and Milutinovic stress the importance of keeping the eyes in focus in cat photos, too.

Many cameras have a setting that automatically focuses on the closest part of the subject. When shooting straight on and close up, this would mean Tigger’s nose, not his eyes, is the focal point. Therefore, try to set the camera’s focus point yourself and aim accordingly.

TIP #4: DON’T GET TOO FLASHY Most photos of cats will likely be taken indoors, where lighting can be a challenge. You should ideally take your shots with plenty of natural lighting and without the flash, which distracts the animal and might even send it scurrying. In lower-light settings, you can bump up the ISO and “trade” a wider aperture for faster shutter speed. But sometimes, that’s just not enough. Breaking out the flash should be a last resort, but there are ways to prevent it from ruining your shot. Flash diffusers help reduce that harsh, white glow. And pointing the flash toward the subject at an angle or straight up in a room with a low ceiling can help. Whatever you do, don’t point the flash head-on at your cat. When you do that with people, you get the red-eye effect. With cats, you get those soulless demon eyes.

TIP #5: KNOW WHEN TO QUIT Sometimes your cat just won’t cooperate. If you want to take photos that are more compelling than seeing Patches curled up on your freshly dry-cleaned black blazer, you’ll have to do so on her schedule. Milutinovic recommends playing to the cat’s curiosity with noises and distractions, and Norem suggests smartphone apps designed to draw their attention. However, both photographers concede that patience and readiness are the most important tools. Cats are fickle that way. Go figure. ●

CATS

PET GUIDE 2015

CAT TRIC Hat Trick Just how trainable — and interested — are our feline friends? BY JAIME NETZER

THINKSTOCK

ou’ve seen enough cutesy YouTube videos to know they’re out there: Cats who perform great feats your own feline wouldn’t deign to dare (she’s too busy with an 18-hour nap right now, thank you very much). Kerri Marshall, chief veterinary officer at Trupanion pet medical insurance, says certain breeds, including Bengal, Burmese and Abyssinian, are particularly adept at picking up feline agility, but the truth is, all cats are highly intelligent learning machines. With the right technique, you likely can get your furry friend to do cool tricks, too.

WALK ON A LEASH

PLAY FETCH

Barbara Heidenreich, a professional animal trainer who works with everything from rabbits to rhinos, says the key to training a cat to walk on a leash or harness is “targeting.” “This involves teaching your cat to orient her nose toward something like a ball on a stick,” she says. “Every time she orients her nose toward this, you can say, ‘Good,’ and offer a treat. Pretty soon she will learn to follow the ball wherever it goes.” Use the same method to train other behaviors, such as walking on a leash. (And think of the leash as a backup safety device for when you travel with your cat, not as a method of control.) “What will guide your cat is your target. Present the target to tell your cat where you want her to go. Reward her with a treat when she goes,” Heidenreich says Truly want your cat to accompany you on daily walks? Use the target to teach her to walk alongside you. “Just present the target periodically at your side,” Heidenreich says. Once kitty has mastered the concept, you can slowly phase out the target altogether.

Training your cat to fetch requires baby steps, Heidenreich warns. “We use a process called ‘shaping with approximations.’” Instead of tossing an object and hoping your cat will pick it up, reduce your expectations, or break the action down into small steps. If your cat sniffs a stuffed ball, you could offer her a treat. Next, she might nudge it with her nose. This too would earn a reward. “She could then earn a treat for rubbing the ball, and then opening her mouth slightly as she rubbed, and then eventually mouthing it,” Heidenreich says. Cats respond to positive reinforcement; baby steps, and eventually she’ll get the picture.

USE THE TOILET Yes, there are several potty-training kits for cats. They come with adapters that basically turn your toilet into a large litter box. Melissa Viera, a professional animal trainer, says while it may sound far-fetched, it’s entirely possible to toilet-train your cat and never again touch a litter box. “Be very patient and start out slowly,” Viera says. Teaching a young cat new bathroom habits is generally easier. But should you force kitty onto the porcelain throne? “Unfortunately, it’s not the most natural scenario for a cat, who wants to dig his own hole,” says Nancy Bailey, an animal behaviorist and author. “I advise using a litter box instead of the toilet. Not only is it more natural, but you avoid all kinds of things that can go wrong. … But it can be done.”

A CAVEAT Marshall notes that certain personality traits do make training more difficult for cats. “Especially stubborn and independent cats can be difficult to train — it really depends on what you want to teach them,” she says. “A particularly low-energy cat may never learn agility but could learn to sit, with enough positive reinforcement.” While many cats won’t respond to standard training methods, patience and creativity can still yield success, Marshall says. And keep sessions short, advises Viera: “Quit training while your cat is interested.” ●

Spoil in Style Pamper your kitten with these great products BY JAIME NETZER

PET GUIDE 2015

he first 18 months of a cat’s life are critical to growth. And though a kitten’s favorite toy will always be you — “Above all, cats need time with you — their ultimate play toy,” says Dr. Jeffrey Levy, a veterinarian in New York City — you can pamper your new feline friend in other ways, too.

THINKSTOCK; KITNIP BOX

CATS

ANIMAL AROMATHERAPY Animals’ Apawthecary Tranquility Blend is an herbal remedy that combines three calming tonics — valerian, skullcap and oatstraw — to relax your cat. Mix it with food, put it on a treat or place it in your cat’s mouth with a dropper or syringe. It can take the edge off a bad thunderstorm or a road trip. $16.99 for 1 ounce, onlynaturalpet.com

A TRIP TO THE AT-HOME SPA

SCRATCH AND PLAY Imperial Cat’s Scratch ’n Shapes are combination play centers and scratchers, saving your furniture while keeping your kitten happy. They’re eco-friendly (crafted from recycled paper, printed with soy-based ink and themselves recyclable) and made in the U.S. They come in the shape of food, sports equipment, a car or even a sofa. Prices vary; find a retailer at imperialcat.com

▼ BIRCHBOX FOR CATS Kitnip Box is a monthly subscription service in the vein of Birchbox and PopSugar (so hot for humans right now). The

goodies include cat toys, treats, health and hygiene products, must-have accessories, new gadgets and other unique products. A portion of the proceeds goes toward animal welfare causes. $19 per month for a one-cat box or $29 per month for a multi-cat box, kitnipbox.com

TUCK IN Black Cat Dog Design’s “Home is Where the Cat Is” Sealy beds are pricy — upwards of $500 — but they’re attractive, custom-crafted and made of a combination of American woods including ash, walnut and maple. Fitted with Sealy mattresses, the beds are elevated and ventilated, preventing damp cushion bottoms. $500 to $750, blackcatdogdesigns.com ●

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With Pet Head’s Fizzy Kitty Mousse Cat Cleaner, you don’t have to submit your kitten to a traumatic bath, because it’s a no-rinse foam shampoo. Simply massage the strawberry lemonade-scented cleaner into

her coat, fluff her with a towel and comb through. $11.99, amazon.com

H E D GE HOGS

Hedgehog Hysteria Forget the fluff; it’s all about those fine spines BY STACEY FREED

PET GUIDE 2015

THINKSTOCK

ove over, Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle, and make way for the real deal, Miss Teazel. Step aside, Sonic, you adventurous maniac you, and recognize the bona fide wonderment that is Shming, who’s been viewed on YouTube more than 6.3 million times, frolicking and floating in his mommy’s bathtub. Teazel and Shming are riding the wave of hedgehog popularity — from T-shirts and Internet memes to actual pet ownership. “They’re adorable! Different, fun, very odd-looking and not the average pet,” says Christine Hannigan of the Hedgehog Welfare Society, a resource for education, information and rescue.

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ach having lost beloved pets themselves, EterniTrees LLC was created by two Cemeterians - Nicholas Hammerling and Helen DuBarry Oregonians who wished to contribute something that would heal the grief felt during such losses while gifting the environment with a green alternative to offset the carbon footprint caused by cremation. As Nicholas states, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We started with a vision that â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;life never ends; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only the beginning.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;? The result is a beautiful, biodegradable, 3 inch diameter by 6 inch high urn that will hold the remains of up to a 35 lb. pet. This urn is then packaged in a recyclable, decorative tin. The company offers several types of tree seeds to choose from, so the appropriate trees can be planted according to the hardiness zones in which people live. For example, some of Zone 4 choices include blue spruce, eastern redbud, ginkgo biloba, white oak, sugar maple and more.

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Further, a description of each tree helps people choose one they feel best characterizes their cherished pet. For example, an eastern redbud is described as a stunning beauty: When the Eastern Redbud presents its gift

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of color, the world around this tree undergoes a geomorphic change; everything seems brighter, the air seems cleaner, the world is more in focus. Your pet gives witnesses a moment of pause to take in such utter beautyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a stunning purple floral display bursts forth directly from the bark.

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In a few weeks, purple blooms turn to pink, and green,

heart-shaped leaves appear as yet another symbol of the love you shared. As hummingbirds and butterflies feed on the nectar of your Eastern Redbud tree, you will be delighted by the soft-winged homage to your pet presented by their fluttering dance.

The top of the urn is a sealed bio-chamber that, when buried and watered, absorbs moisture. The proprietary mix inside expands, covering the cremated remains, neutralizing the pH. The seeds, also included in the chamber, can then â&#x20AC;&#x153;escapeâ&#x20AC;? to germinate and the tree, as it grows, will utilize the calcium and potassium left after the cremation process. EterniTrees, says Hammerling, â&#x20AC;&#x153;gives peace of mind with the knowledge that a wonderful, beloved pet is now a living, thriving memorial tree with the added benefits to the world of contributing beauty and clean air for all to enjoy.â&#x20AC;? enjoy.

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H E D GE HOGS

QUIRKY AND CUTE When Lauren Stummer was a little girl, she begged her parents for a hedgehog. They got her a puppy. But finally, on her 20th birthday, she bought herself that longed-for hedgehog. “These are actual pets; it’s not a trendy thing to have that’s ironic and hipster,” says the Fairfax, Va., art teacher. “You need to take care of it and clip its nails and give it baths.” Among other things. In general, they are relatively low-maintenance — they live in large cages (like hamsters), don’t need annual vaccinations (like cats and dogs) and sleep all day. First, to dispel a few myths: They have “spines,” — 500 of them, to be exact — which are like hardened hair, and not “quills,” which are hollow. “You’d be surprised how soft they are,” says Stephanie Sofia, a hedgie owner in New York City. They

PET GUIDE 2015

Eugene will stretch his neck for me to kiss him on his jawline ... There’s no greater feeling.” — BRIANNA STIKLICKAS, hedgehog owner

don’t detach their spines as porcupines do their quills; they will, however, curl into a ball, spiny tips out, and hiss if threatened. Although they tend to be solitary, they’re friendly and affectionate and will even play with other hedgehogs, says Sofia, who has raised three together since birth. “They run together. They snuggle. They seem to show compassion for each other.”

Most domesticated hedgies sold in the United States are African pygmies, and they come in colors ranging from salt-and-pepper to apricot. The size of a hefty baked potato or a softball, a hedgehog usually weighs ½ pound to 1¼ pounds. In the wild they’re insectivores (eating small prey such as worms, centipedes and snails or carrion), but as house pets, they run the risk of obesity, fatty liver disease and digestive issues. That may be due to a lack of a traditional food source. Most owners feed their hedgies a cat food variety that’s high in protein but not too fatty, explains Brianna Stiklickas. She will soon launch a line of hedgehog food, Meet Eugene, named after her hedgehog. After consulting with experts, Stiklickas came up with the healthy hedgie kibble. “Eugene was obese, but now he’s lost weight ... and is

more active,” she says. Before you race to the pet store, you should know hedgies are not legal to own in every state (check Hedgehog Central for an updated list (hedgehogcentral. com/illegal.shtml). They need to be kept in a warm place, 65 to 80 degrees; if not, they’ll become lethargic and “may be compromised,” says veterinarian Heidi Aguiar Licata, director of East River Veterinary Hospital in West Henrietta, N.Y. In the past four years, she has seen an increase in hedgehog patients. “They can be interesting family pets, but they work best with one owner in a calm environment,” Licata says. The Hedgehog Welfare Society has dealt with a lot of owners who had second thoughts about their pet choice. “You need to do your research before (you) get a pet like this,” says Licata. So while not for everybody, they’re definitely entertaining little guys and make for fun companions — hence the millions of YouTube videos of hedgies uncurling from their prickly armor or “tubing,” their noses adorably stuck in cardboard toilet paper rolls. “Eugene will stretch his neck for me to kiss him on his jawline, then he’ll rub his face against mine and snuggle into me,” Stiklickas adds. “There’s no greater feeling.”

THINKSTOCK

Though their spines (not quills!) can look sharp and prickly, hedgies really are quite soft and cuddly.

SAFE

SNAKE FEEDING

nakes do not need to eat live prey. In fact, a snake must kill a mammal before it can eat it. Constrictors kill by crushing and suffocating their victim, causing them to suffer. This isn’t necessary! “The vast majority of captive snakes not only accept but seem to prefer pre-killed rodents,” said veterinarian Steve Barten, an expert on snakes at Vernon Hills Animal Hospital near Chicago, IL. “The use of pre-killed prey is more humane for the rodent, more humane for the snake, less expensive than feeding live prey, and more convenient.” Feeding a live rodent to a snake can result in injury to the snake, and even a small bite from a rodent can become infected and endanger the snake’s life.

Most pet shops sell frozen rodents, or you can buy them online and have them sent right to your home. It is a simple matter of thawing and warming the rodent before it is fed to the snake. Most snakes can be trained to accept dead prey. It just takes a little time and effort to get them accustomed to the change. There are many advantages to buying frozen rodents instead of live ones. There is no chance of the rodent biting or scratching the snake or owner,

or escaping into your home, and no urine or feces. Frozen rodents are more convenient and economical, and nutritional supplements for the snake can be put inside. Frozen rodents are killed humanely at the breeding facility, thereby minimizing suffering. A new Facebook group called Herp-Owners Humane Pledge offers help for snake owners who want to switch their snakes to eating pre-killed rodents. You’ll find links to articles on how to train snakes to accept dead prey. Members can offer advice about what has worked for them. This is the group for snake owners who want to feed their pets safely and humanely! Join Us On Facebook

at Herp-Owners Humane Pledge!

Our National Parks The National Mall welcomes millions every year, but what they see is hardly welcoming.

It welcomes the world to our most significant monuments and memorials. But like many national parks, the National Mall in Washington, D.C., desperately needs our help, including $350 million in federal funding for maintenance, repairs, and preservation. You can help with a simple letter. Visit NPCA.org/mall. Or call 1-800-NAT PARK.

R A BBI TS

Can A

Bunny

Be Your

HOUSE RABBIT SOCIETY

Honey?

PET GUIDE 2015

Before you hop down the bunny trail, make sure you have all your eggs in the basket BY PAM GEORGE

hile visiting a to 12 months,” she says. farmers market Cathie Cush of Newtown, in Berkeley, Pa., who has shared her Calif., Margo home with rabbits for 30 DeMello spotted years, discovered the value a stand selling rabbits. She bought of a specialty vet when she two. “I didn’t know anything about took a rabbit who’d lost its aprabbits at the time,” she says, “but I petite to a small animal practice. fell in love with them.” That was in After $1,000 worth of tests, the vet 1989. Today, DeMello is president of was flummoxed. Cush then took the the House Rabbit Society. She lives bunny to a specialty vet, who said the with about 20 rescued rabbits in rabbit just needed its molars filed. Placitas, N.M. Twenty minutes later, the bunny was Bunnies, she says, make excellent back to eating. house pets. “They are smart, funny, Another consideration is diet. The affectionate, independent and posright diet, consisting of an array of sess countless other personality traits veggies and quality hay, is imperative that make them ideal companions in to making sure a rabbit’s gut keeps the home.” moving. Larry Nagengast of WilmHowever, they do ington, Del., gives require special care, Baby Nora, his and their fragility pet rabbit of an can put them at unknown breed, risk in the wrong a balanced diet of environment. So vegetables with how do you know if an occasional a rabbit is right for carrot or apple — MELISSA VIERA, you? slice. “She also professional animal trainer First, consider likes Fiber Choice their medical needs. Rabbits have sugar-free chewable tablets,” he says. delicate backs that are easily Owning a bunny takes time and broken, which is a concern if they’re patience. Most rabbits are social mishandled or dropped. They also animals. “They should have plenty have thin skin, which can present a of opportunities every day to interact problem if they require sutures. Their with their families,” says Melissa sensitivities are physical, as well as Viera, a professional animal trainer emotional. Prey in the wild, bunnies in Acushnet, Mass., who owns Mia, a are easily frightened; a game of chase New Zealand rabbit. with the family cat or dog could Grooming, petting and training are cause trauma or even heart attack. all positive activities, and by keeping Because of their distinct anatomy, a rabbit indoors, you can boost its rabbits do best when treated by social interaction and provide it with veterinarians who specialize in lagoa warm and safe space to live. Many morphs, says Dr. Amber Andersen, a rabbits can even learn to use the litter veterinarian in Los Angeles, who has box. To start training, put out a few an English Spot named Mr. Bunny. boxes and then remove the unused “They need to be examined every six ones, says Viera. “Rabbits will

NIKKI DOBRIN

Rabbits will naturally use one area as their bathroom.”

With an abundance of toys to play with in a cage-free home, Wendell the cashmere mini lop does not chew on things he’s not supposed to, like furniture and cords, because he is stimulated and content. naturally use one area as their bathroom,” she says. Nagengast gives Baby Nora time outside her three-level cage for exercise and interaction. A large pen is ideal for unsupervised romps. Otherwise, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the pet. “It’s not easy for a good-sized middle-aged adult to catch an agile young bunny when it’s time to return the pet to the cage,” Nagengast notes. Although spaying and neutering curbs a rabbit’s propensity to chew, unsupervised rabbits may still chomp on cords, carpets, baseboards and furniture. One of Cush’s rabbits gnawed through drywall, and a female tried to “nest” in a new sectional sofa. Cush now uses baby gates and has taken other safety measures, such as wrapping flexible PVC tubing over exposed wires. Cardboard boxes and toilet paper rolls packed with hay can serve as alternative toys. “If you keep a Martha Stewart house, a bunny might not be for you,” says Cush. But, she concludes, “They can be amazing pets for the right people.” ●

F ISH

The Age of Aquarium Modern design and technology can turn a ho-hum fish tank into a living Atlantis

AQUARIUM DESIGN GROUP

BY A D A M H A D H A Z Y

PET GUIDE 2015

tep into any room with a fish tank, and hey, presto — that’s where your eyes settle. Aquariums mesmerize in this manner by bringing otherworldly, waterborne creatures right into our terrestrial realm. It’s no wonder, then, that more than 16 million households in the United States care for a combined total of around 160 million fish, according to a recent American Pet Products Association National Pet Owners Survey. That’s about one fish for every two Americans! Many aquariums sold in retail stores sport

familiar geometric profiles — think rectangles, hexagons and tiny spheres. And we’ve all seen the traditional colored gravel and treasure chests that serve as in-tank decorations. Yet for aquarium enthusiasts, there’s a veritable ocean of ways to jazz up the fish-owning experience. From imaginative tank shapes to dazzling lighting effects, as well as artful pairings of sand, wood and other earthy elements, these ideas take your aquarium from average to awesome.

F ISH

creates minimalist, modern-looking hardscapes using natural materials such as sand, rocks and wood, often in muted colors. His composition plays off the colors and textures of the room, making even freshwater varieties of fish (less striking than their saltwater cousins) pop. “It’s pure heart, soul and vision,” Senske says, and the passionate approach is gaining in popularity.

A large saltwater tank at a private residence wows with its curved profile.

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX

AQUASCAPE

Fish tanks made of glass or a transparent plastic called acrylic can be fashioned into attractively curved tanks. Acrylic’s lighter weight makes it more versatile, allowing it to be shaped in distinctive ways with bulges or bows — even S-shapes. While sturdy, acrylic is more likely to scratch than glass. But it can also be easier to see through. Glass tanks, which have panes bonded at the corners with a silicon sealant, can have distorted viewing angles. Acrylic panels are fused together at the seams, and tank manufacturers can polish edges to be “crystal clear,” says Keith Warren of Living Color Aquariums in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., featured on National Geographic Wild’s Fish Tank Kings. Whether going with glass or pricier acrylic, owners should think outside the box. “People are getting away from a basic rectangle and doing things where they’re not hiding the corners,” says Jose Blanco, also of Living Color Aquariums.

With the right décor, conventional rectangles can still look great. Jeff Senske, owner (with his brother Mike) of the Aquarium Design Group in Houston, brings a new level of sophistication to the aquarium world. Through an approach called “aquascaping,” Senske applies art, architecture and interior design concepts to tank design and installation. “We’re actually trying to harmonize the aquarium with the interior environment and not just have, say, a nice space that also has an aquarium,” says Senske. A hallmark of this forward-thinking approach is an in-tank ornamentation dubbed a hardscape. Senske

PET GUIDE 2015

Fish First!

High-end aquarium tank designers are turning to LEDs instead of oldschool T5 tubes (the shorter version of the fluorescent bulbs common in office buildings) to light up tanks. Unlike traditional incandescent and fluorescent lights, LEDs waste very little energy, says Warren. LEDs typically use a fraction of the wattage, cutting energy costs for tank owners. Plus, LEDs last far longer. “You can go 10 to 15 years, and you don’t need to change anything,” Warren says, whereas “with old fixtures, you have to replace the bulbs every six or nine months.” LEDs are smaller and pack more illumination options into tighter spaces. An aquarium can glow from the inside out, thanks to LEDs placed in decorations, and some can even change colors for a stunning visual effect, Warren says. LEDs can also be programmed to dim over the course of a day, mimicking a natural shallow-sea experience. “You can get a full dawn-to-dusk cycle,” Warren says. The lights can even simulate cloud cover or a flash of lightning.

Aquarium aficionados agree that, no matter the beautiful design of the tank, the fish inside matter most. Consult a professional aquarist to learn the best fish for your setup. “We can build a beautiful box of water and lighting,” says Jose Blanco of Living Color Aquariums. “But until you get fish in it, it’s really nothing.”

LIVING COLOR AQUARIUMS, THINKSTOCK

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T H E TA I L E N D

Hamster Houdini Who knew these little rodents could master the art of a great escape? BY ALISTAIR WEARMOUTH

| ILLUSTRATION BY ANNA GRAPE

ike any good mystery, this one involves a death, fugitives and wrongly accused innocents. It begins with the untimely demise of dear Nibbles. A gift for my daughter’s eighth birthday, Nibbles the hamster lasted all of a week before a mysterious illness (we assume) snatched him away from us. This was a hard blow for a girl who’s grown up adoring kittens, puppies and pretty much anything with claws and a covering of fur. To make her feel better, we went to pick out a pair of dwarf hamsters from a different pet-store chain as a replacement for her erstwhile BFF (Best Furry Friend). These two were even cuter than Nibbles, and it was all going so well … for about a fortnight. One evening I returned home to discover we were down to one little rodent, Parkour. He’d earned the name (which comes from an obstacle course-style workout) after my daughter noted his ability to scale any obstacle in the exercise yard she’d crafted from cardboard, duct tape and old wooden blocks. His sibling, Speedy (Gonzales

PET GUIDE 2015

— get it?), was nowhere to be seen. There was no carcass, no trace of foul play, at which point I erroneously accused my daughter of failing to return the little fella to his cage after his workout. It was a tough moment for her, and a few days later, she sobbed the heartbreaking admission, “Maybe I can’t have pets. They just die when I take care of them.” Ah, but the truth was near. Less than a day later, Parkour also vanished, apparently in the same way as his speedy counterpart. After Parkour’s mysterious departure, we noticed a teeny crack, less than a centimeter wide, in one of the attachment modules we’d set up as part of the hamster enclosure. Both hamsters must have made their great escape through that tiny space. But who knew a hamster could perform such a feat? Today, we like to think of our furry scofflaws out there on the lam, the Bonnie and Clyde of the hamster world, cheered on by Nibbles in hamster heaven. Or perhaps they should be remembered for what they really are: the greatest escape artists since Harry Houdini. Case closed.

Treat American

Every dog deserves the best quality treats.