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TO BOARD Or Not To Board page 25
THE GROOMER Behind Ekko’s page 12
Getting To Know Dr. Croft page 28 NOVEMBER 2009
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Table of Contents
November 09 4
20
28
18
10
25
4
Note from the Publisher
14 Holiday Concerns
6
Rachael’s Alternative Nutrition Corner
18 CAPS Howl-O-Ween
9
American Comfort
23 Rescue Resources
10 Your First Nano Aquarium 12 Grooming Essentials
20 Calender of Events
25 To Board or not to Board 28 Getting to Know Dr. Croft
No editorial content in HOO KNOWS Texas Cats & Dogs is purchased. All articles have been submitted by local businesses out of the kindness of their hearts because they care about you and your pets. If you wish to submit an editorial for an upcoming issue, please e-mail us at info@TexasCatsAndDogs.com
November 2009 | 3
Editor’s Note Dear Readers, Welcome to HOO KNOWS® Texas Cats & Dogs! We are Katy/ Fort Bend County’s one stop ‘Spot’ for services and products for our furry friend (and yourself). The HOO KNOWS® magazines are a family of 10 publications published in several cities throughout the U.S. With over 12 years experience, we like to think we have the ‘nose’ to sniff out the HOO’s who of local businesses! Please take the time to visit some of the wonderful businesses that advertise in HOO KNOWS® Texas Cats & Dogs. Their ads allow this publication to be FREE. Each of our advertisers contributes to our community by providing quality services, merchandise and stellar customer service! So Sit, Stay and please, if you’re considering adding a new Fur-kid to your family consider a rescue! Having done English Bulldog rescue for several years, I can honestly tell you a rescue pet seems to realize the second chance they’re been given and love you twice as much for it! Woof & Meows! Shannan Parker Publisher
Shannan Parker resides in Katy, Texas with Jeff, her husband and best friend of 15 years. Jeff and Shannan have two children, Taylor who is 14 and Trace who is 10. They all answer to their 2 English Bulldogs, Maddox and Bentley, the real bosses.
4 | www.TexasCatsAndDogs.com
High quality selection of dog & cat food! Pet deli treats | Priefert dog kennels Grooming Supplies | Joint Supplements Crates & Beds | Wormers
(281) 341-9005
4325 FM 359 Rd | Richmond, TX 77406-9180 Hours M-F 8 - 6pm | Sat 8-4pm | Delivery available
November 2009 | 5
Rachel’s Nutrition Whether it be cat nutrition or dog nutrition there is always a balance you want to create and acheive for that special individual pet in your life Even if you have a lot of them. There’s a balance where you want them to eat well and make sure they’re happy with what they’re eating for the benefit of there health and your budget i.e. to stay away from the dreaded vet bills and vet visits. I am not saying that you shouldn’t go for your yearly wellness That is, if you have problems. If you’re one of those owners that says I love my animal but not enough to pay the price for a better food quality food, yet have to do a routine vet visit for that allergy shot you may want to rethink the objective, or look for that alternative solution to that vets pricey office fee visit! Picking out a food for either species is normally pretty simple if you’re just heading to Walmart, and shopping for the budget. Understandable. When the animal starts having to go to the vet for ear, feet, smell, or an itchy type of problem people forget that 6 | www.TexasCatsAndDogs.com
nutrition plays just as big of a role in their life as it does in ours. Here’s an example of an alternative solution - role play puhleezzeee..... When you go to the doctor and the doc says,.... “Well,.. you’ve got high cholestarol! We’re putting you on med’s like Lipitor to control it for you, or you can solve it by eating and having a healthier lifestyle. Exercise regularly, and try to stay away from fried food!” Now if we did this in pet lingo,... the doc would say,... “Hey! Looks like ole Scruffy is a bit itchy behind the ears and a little bit between the paw pads about 15 pounds over weight.” Let’s say Scruffy is a 7 year old 52 pound blue heeler cross that lives in an apartment in the middle of Houston and was adopted for the goodness of the way this crazy old world works, to better their owner’s life.
Now Scruffy might help his owner out with his cholestorol by walking regularly. Being a medium to large mix breed coming up on a senior aged dog we would like to see Scruffy on a lower protein level and maybe a source of some positive antioxidants to help detox and feel better
Alternative Corner!
- I am saying fruits and vegetables are good to see in dog food for a change! There are a multitude of antioxidants sources in good QUALITY dog and cat foods. Like raspberries, blueberries, flaxseed, broccoli, green beans, cauliflower,..... yes,.. you’re reading this correctly what’s good for
us human is great for our four legged critters too... When you read your average run of the mill dog food from the commercial grocery store,... do you see anything similar? That may be why you have the problems, and know your vet on a first name basis. Back to ole Scruffy.
Scruffy hadn’t always felt the lack of inactivity till some more of these problems festered - the itchyness, wax build up perhaps in the ears, reddishness between the paw pads, etc.etc... Having atleast 2 meat sources on that ingredient label of the pet food you buy. November 2009 | 7
The words, Chicken, and Chicken Meal, or Whitefish, or Duck Meal need -- I say NEEDS to be in the first 4 ingredients surrounded by a good carbohydrate such as a sweet potatoe(B-Vitamins) or oatmeal (Great for Sensitive Stomachs) or even barley is a good whole grain fiber source with very few allergens attached. We just want to keep in mind that we want Scruffy to start losing weight, feeling more active, and eating a better diet so for reduced fat diets you would find a carb before protein - rice is a big one but you want to see a whole grain brown rice, I’d stick with sweet potatoes, they truly have a lot more to offer in the vitamin, mineral, and fiber capacity. Now incorporating We’d want to make a diet that we’d like to eat if it would make the difference for a happy healthier lifestyle; what we’d 8 | www.TexasCatsAndDogs.com
wish for anyone in our family if we had health issues, and we’re talking about our animals if you’re reading this article. Looking at your pet is just like looking at your family member... we want whats best for them and to have the most healthy prolonged life as possible.... if nutrition will help with the vet bills, it will surely help with the overall out look on life once you see that eating healthy plays a huge role in how it effects living and not just existing. If you like sharing a big part of your life with your animal. You’ll take a gander at that nutrition label of the dog or cat food your critter is eating and assess “Is this diet right for my pet?” There’s more than one source of protein available as an alternative solution to get your dog or cat back on track. Even if you’re dealing
with urinary tract infections to the early stages of kidney failure there is a way to mend internally with the help of good nutrition and holistic vets there are always other solutions besides medication! Anywho,... I can’t speak enough about what good nutrition and healthy habits can do for you and your faithful critter companion(s)!!! The right diet they’ve been craving, or just NEEDING to feel and look like their old self is research away! ALWAYS remember It’s YOU, the owner that can make the biggest difference. Tune in to the next Texas Cat & Dog Magazine for specific proteins in dog food and cat foods; Why that protein is put in there and what issues it may help address....... Lamb, Salmon, Venison, Whitefish, Duck, Pork, Beef, Turkey, it’s not just chicken anymore..... Head out to visit Rachel at Brehm’s Feed Company In Richmond Texas on Farm Market Rd 359, right outside of Pecan Grove. Where you’ll find ideas to help better your budget and your best friend. There’s multiple varieties and assortments of top notch pet foods, !! Our motto: “No bandaids, just solutions!”
$40.00 OFF ANY REPAIR*
*Just donate 2 cans of food to the local food bank for the holidays. Give food to our technician at time of service to receive discount. Offer expires 12/31/09 (Coupon cannot be combined with any other offers.)
Don’t Lose Your Cool! Call Sam Today!
281-395-2222 www.coolairsam.com
Licensed since 1983 TACLB590C
Jimmy Loyd Photography
www.jimmyloydphotography.com When your pet means so much to you!
713-574-0087
November 2009 | 9
Your first nano aquarium as easy as 1, 2, 3!
Mike Maddox
Interested in an aquarium, but don’t want the large expense? Consider starting a nano aquarium! A nano aquarium is a term in the hobby for any aquarium with a water volume of 30 gallons or less. Nano aquariums are becoming increasingly common because of their small size, lower price, availability of pre-fabricated tanks, and unique look. However, there are greater challenges to successfully maintaining a nano aquarium than there are in a larger aquarium with a more forgiving water volume. After my share of nano reef trials, I’ve written a three step guide which will help you avoid some of these small tank woes. 10 | www.TexasCatsAndDogs.com
1. Essential Planning
Are you new to keeping aquariums? There is a lot to learn which will exceed the scope of this article. Two excellent sources of information are available online for free! One is WetWebMedia (http://www.wetwebmedia. com) and the second is the Captive Aquatics Blog (http://blog.captive-aquatics.com). Both provide a lot of essential information for free, and will get you started on the path to success with your nano aquarium. I recommend starting out with one of the commercially available nano aquariums on the market. These systems come
complete with the tank, hood, lighting and filtration – all you’ll need to do is add sand, live rock, water, and a heater. Simplicity is your friend with a nano aquarium! With an all in one nano aquarium, the only additional equipment you’ll need to purchase is a heater, gravel, decorations, and live rock (for saltwater aquariums) or possibly live plants (for freshwater aquariums). Most of the all-in-one nano aquarium systems come with the highintensity lighting required by saltwater coral, and freshwater plants. Once an aquarium is purchased, it’s time to decide what to put in it! However, before stocking can be done, you need to plan a few basics first. Do you want a saltwater or freshwater aquarium? What do you want to put in it? Different animals have different
water, care, husbandry, and tankmate requirements. You’ll want to read as much as you can about the livestock you’re interested in before making a purchase – education is key in this hobby, and prevents the frustration and expense of losing livestock. Stay tuned next month for part 2: stocking your nano aquarium!
Mike Maddox is a marine biologist and internationally published aquatics author/ expert, and owns Captive Aquatics™ (www.captiveaquatics.com) a Houston-based company that provides aquarium design, installation, service, and consultation worldwide. Feel free to contact him with any questions via e-mail: MMaddox@captive-aquatics.com.
November 2009 | 11
Grooming Essentials
My name is Emma and I have been grooming for 4 years. I have been at EKKO’S for just over a year now.
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I have always had passion for animals since I was a child, but my appreciation and love for dogs in particular grew immensely when I started working for a breeder when I was in college. To bond with the dogs like I did made them more than pets to me, they became my family, this is why with every dog that I meet and groom, my job is not only to make them look good but also to learn about them, what they like, what they don’t like, and especially what it takes to keep them comfortable so it makes it easier for both of us. The opportunity came to me to write this article and I was extremely excited. The most rewarding thing I can do for a pet and their owner is to help them understand the importance of grooming and training in hopes that it will provide an easier, happier life for the whole family.
Whether your dog has long hair or short hair, is big or small, grooming is an essential part of keeping him healthy and happy. You should discuss with your groomer how often he will need to be groomed; this will depend on the type of dog and his lifestyle. Regular grooming not only keeps your dog clean and looking good, your groomer can detect early signs of health problems such as skin problems, parasites, tumors, joint problems and possible infections. Although we are not vets and cannot diagnose a problem, we can tell you if something does not look right so that you can have them checked before the problem gets worse. A good groomer will answer any questions you might have about what type of tools you need or how to properly maintain your loved on at home. Proper maintenance at home such as daily brushing, nail trim-
ming and ear cleaning will also help you spot and prevent early signs of health problems. If you have a dog with long hair, it is extremely important to brush them daily with the proper brush and comb. If the dogs hair gets tangled, those tangles multiply and become tighter and can cause pulling and the skin which is very painful for a dog. The health of your dog can also be affected by the type of food he eats, so do your research and make sure he is eating a good quality food. At EKKO’S we offer a monthly seminar where we cover the basic grooming needs of your dog and how to properly take care of him at home. We understand that puppies usually do not come with instructions, so we are happy to help you with anything you might need along the way.
November 2009 | 13
Holiday Concerns
Please keep in mind as you read this article that the items and information listed below are simply things to consider as the holidays are approaching and that every home, pet and family are different. With the coming holidays of the hustle and bustle cooking, shopping and preparations can be overwhelming at times. During all the commotion many people forget about their pets and the dangers that can be presented so be sure you stop and take a moment to make room for them in your preparations. My pet’s take part in our holidays and are always a part of everything we do so I have to keep a careful eye on everything, especially during this time of year. My lab mix is approaching 16 years old so I have to keep a few things in mind with regards to her safety. Can she handle the commotion of people coming and going? The doors opening and closing? People that she rarely sees being all over the house and kids wanting to pet her. Is it better for her to be in her room or out in the house with everything? Though I want her to be a part of everything I also have to consider how stressful all that might be for her too. Remember to stick as close as possible to your pets “normal” schedule. The extra traffic in your home can also be upsetting to your pet. So make sure you consider everything when making holiday plans for your families and pets. Are you leaving town? Are you taking your pet? Do they travel well and take to strange places well? Also make sure that if you are staying at a 14 | www.TexasCatsAndDogs.com
hotel do they accept pets? If you are staying with family, are they okay with your pet coming? Do they have pets and are they going to get along? These are all good questions to consider. If you do take your pet, make sure to take your pet’s kennel, bedding, food and a toy or two. If you question whether or not your pet can handle these things, then perhaps consider having a pet sitter or boarding facility take care of your pet. No matter where your family and pet are spending the holidays – Make sure you also consider all the dangers that come with the holidays and your pets. If your pet is a “counter surfer”, make sure that hot pans, bowls, pots, plates and other hot items are kept further back on the counter. Hot liquids or foods can scald or burn your pet. The smell of food cooking may attract your pet to the kitchen and they may get under foot. Use caution as you move around. Best thing is to teach your pet that the kitchen is off limits. Many people feed their pets scraps, use caution in doing this. Some seasonings may upset your pet’s tummy. Poultry bones are very brittle and after being cooked they splinter easily and they become a chocking hazard. Everyone hates those sad puppy eyes that sit and stair at you, pleading for a bite. Don’t give in and encourage your
guests to do the same. Our food is still very rich and not all pets can handle it. Some only having upset tummies, but some can have more serious issues. Many people do the same thing... Give into the begging eyes saying just this once. However, that one time turns into another time and so forth which can lead to constant begging, stealing food, health problems, overweight and refusal to eat their own food. There are also those very curious cats and kittens. I remember my daughter’s 1st Christmas. Our 6 month kitten climbed our tree – repeatedly. I came home to the tree knocked over and ornaments on the floor. Keep in mind that cats like to play with items that hang, so ornaments close to the floor or even tinsel can lure them in to play with the tree. Most of the same things to watch for with dogs, you would watch for with cats. What ornaments hang at the bottom of the tree, tinsel, lights, hooks, angel hair? Like always just use caution as the holidays approach. There are many things every pet owner can do to take caution with regards to plants, foods and medications. Not all human medications can be given to your pet. Unless your veterinarian specifically instructs you to use over-thecounter products, please refrain from giving them the following medication. Here are a few: ACETOMINOPHEN (Tylenol), NAPROXEN (Aleve), and IBUPROPHEN (Advil) can cause kidney failure, stomach ulcers, and liver damage in as little as 1 tablet. Keep all medications (OTC/prescription), diet pills, and multivitamins (especially those containing iron) securely locked out of reach. Foods and other items to use caution with are: Chocolate, Grapes, Raisins, Coffee & Coffee Grounds, Alcohol, Yeast Dough, Cigarettes, Macadamia Nuts, Onions, Onion Powder, Avocados, Garlic & foods sweetened with xyli-
to. In small amounts some pets may be okay, just please use caution when feeding your pets human food. Also keep in mind that trash cans are tempting too. Make sure the lids are on tight or behind a door. Poultry bones of any kind covered in left over food are very tempting. Holiday Items to use caution with are: Bubbling Holiday Lights. (the fluid contained inside is Methylene Chloride), Angel Hair (which is made from spun glass), Fire Salts (used to give fires a pretty colors), Tinsel (not poisons, but can become an obstruction). Ornaments – Consider hanging glass & your more treasured ornaments higher and leave wood, plastic, resin-cast or metal ornaments closer to the bottom of the tree. Spray on snow or flocking in dried particles should be safe, but the aerosols directly inhaled can be a risk. Also consider replacing metal ornament hooks with cloth, fabric or twine to hang your ornaments. Plants: There are a variety of plants out there to use caution with. Certain Ivies, Holly, Mistletoe, Balsam, Juniper, Cedar, Pine, Fir, Hibiscus, Poinsettias. Many people want their pets to look festive. Many local pet stores and online stores sell pet safe or pet approved items to dress your pet in. Please try to refrain from tying ribbons on your pet. They can get hung on items or be pulled tighter. Instead of tying the ribbons on your pet put them on your pet’s collar instead. There is also the New Year that comes shortly after. If your pet is unsure about the fireworks please make sure they are indoors, confined properly and leave the TV or lights on for them. If they are afraid of firecrackers then leaving them in the yard may not be the best place for them. November 2009 | 15
Keep in mind the following as the weather get colder. If there are cats that live outdoors around your home please take a moment to tap the hood of your car. Cats like to hide in the engine compartments, wheel wells and any other part of your vehicle they can fit in to keep warm. If you have a pet that lives outside, please consider the coming weather changes. Make sure that your pet has adequate shelter from rain, wind and cold. As well as the age of your pet as the winter months approach. Older pets may not be able to with stand the colder temperatures like they used to and a young dog may not be ready for it either. Many people get new puppies, kittens or other pets for Christmas. Please consider picking these pets out together as a family or couple instead of surprising someone with a new puppy. So many pets end up in shelters after the holidays. Not because they were a present,
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but because they may not have been the right color, breed, size, sex, or the person was not prepared for the responsibility of a new pet. If you are thinking of giving a pet as a present think about giving the person a collar or other supplies as a gift instead. Also, maybe think of saying something along the lines of “I will get you a dog or cat, but let’s pick it out together�. This should also apply even if the pet is an older dog or cat. Getting a pet is a wonderful thing and they come with responsibility. As I said in the beginning the information and items are for your information and to teach people about the things in our world that could pose as a danger to your pets. All pets and families are different. From K-9 Companion Pet Services and Our Family to Yours. We wish you a safe and happy holiday season.
November 2009 | 17
The Howl-O-Ween Dog walk and Expo
The Howl-O-Ween Dog walk and Expo went off without a hitch on Saturday. Beautiful weather along with families and their pets enjoyed time at LaCenterra for a dog walk, costume contest and an opportunity to talk to various businesses at the expo afterwards. Some of the businesses present were The Pawty Palace, K9 Cakes, Rover Oaks and many more. All of this was brought to us by the wonderful people at CAP ( Citizens for Animal Protection). Thank you to all that attended and helped out during the Expo.The wonderful photos of the winners at the costume contest were done by our very own Miguel from Pettography. 18 | www.TexasCatsAndDogs.com
November 2009 | 19
Nov9 200
Calendar
NOV. 05
NOV. 08
Yappy Hour at Natural Pawz- Sugarland 15890 Southwest freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 5pm – 7pm
Grooming Seminar at Ekko’s Groom 20660 Westheimer Parkway Katy, TX, 77450 Call to reserve your spot 281-578-3556 2:00pm
NOV. 07 WOOFSTOCK Clear Lake Park Landolt Pavilion 11am – 3pm
NOV. 07 4th Annual International Festival The Plaza at Sugar Land Town Square 2711 Town Center Blvd North Sugar Land , Tx 77479 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
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NOV. 08 Pugs At Blanco’s 3406 W. Alabama at Buffalo Speedway 2:00pm – 6:00pm
NOV. 12 Yappy Hour at Barker Street All proceeds benefit Second Chance Pomeranians
442 Sawdust Road The Woodlands, TX 77380 5:00pm -7:00 pm
NOV. 12 Yappy Hour at Natural Pawz- Sugarland 15890 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 5pm – 7pm
NOV. 13 Yappy Hour at Pawty Palace 1402 East Avenue Katy, Tx 77493
NOV. 14 Million Mutt March Stude Park | 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Of Events
NOV. 15 7th Annual Taste of Sugar Land Sugar Land Marriott Town Square 16090 City Walk 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
NOV. 19 Yappy Hour at Natural Pawz- Sugarland 15890 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 5pm – 7 pm
NOV. 20-22 American Brittany Rescue Garage Sale All proceeds will go to
American Brittany Rescue 429 Arlington St, Houston, Tx. 77007 8:30
NOV. 21 CAP Celebrity Paws Gala Hilton Americas Lanier Grand Ballroom 6:30pm – 11:00pm
NOV. 21 Jazz Concert in the Plaza The Plaza at Sugar Land Town Square 2711 Town Center Blvd North Sugar Land , Tx 77479 7:00pm – 9:00pm
NOV. 26 Thanksgiving Day
NOV. 27 Day after Thanksgiving movie under the moon The Plaza at Sugar Land Town Square 2711 Town Center Blvd North Sugar Land , Tx 77479 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Vis Grea t These t and S Events You upport Busin r Local es Chari ses and ties! November 2009 | 21
A Heltp In Pe ed Ne
Rescue Chihuahua Rescue and Transport
www.chihuahua-rescue.com Cocker Spaniel Rescue
www.cockerkids.org
Corridor Rescue, Inc Country Hearts Hound Rescue
www.petfinder.com/shelters/countryhoundrescue.html Adopt A Cat, Inc
Dakota Rescue
Akita Rescue, Texas
www.dobermanrescuegroup.org
www.spayhouston.org
All Texas Dachshund Rescue
www.atdr.org
American Brittany Rescue
www.americanbrittanyrescue.org
Austin German Shepherd Dog Rescue
www.dakotarescue.org
Doberman Rescue Group
English Bulldog Rescue Network
www.bulldogrescuenetworktexas.blogspot. com English Springer Rescue America
www.springerrescue.org
www.austingermanshepherdrescue.org
Friends of Rescued Mastiffs
Basset Buddies Rescue of Texas
www.basset-buddies-rescue.org
Great Dane Rescue of Sourtheast Texas
Best Friends FurEver
Great Pyrenees Rescue Society
www.furever.org
Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society
www.bluebonnetequine.org
Boston Terrier Rescue of Greater Houston
www.houstonbostonrescue.org
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club of Greater Houston, Inc.
www.cavaliersofhouston.org
Chesapeake Bay Retriever Relief & Rescue
www.cbrrescue.org
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www.saveadane.org
www.greatpyreneesrescuesociety.org
Resource Shih Tzu Club of Houston Southeast Texas Labrador Retriever Rescue
www.txlabrescue.org
Texas Alaskan Malamute Rescue
www.texalmal.org
Texas Collie Rescue
www.texascollierescue.org Texas Great Pyrenees Rescue Group, Inc. Houston Area Ferret Association
www.houstonareaferretassociation.com Houston Beagle Rescue
www.houstonbeaglerescue.org
Houston Collie Rescue
www.houstoncollierescue.org
Houston Lab Rescue
www.houstonlabrescue.com Houston Sheltie Sanctuary
www.houstonsheltiesanctuary.com Husky Haven Inc
www.huskyhaven.org
Lonestar Boxer Rescue
www.txpyrs.org
Tri-State Bloodhound Rescue
www.tristatebloodhoundrescue.org Weimeranier Rescue of North Texas
www.weimrescuetexas.org
Wild Horse Foundation
www.wildhorsefoundation.org Westie Rescue Houston
www.dogwhimsy.com
Yorkie and Small Dog Rescue
www.yorkieandsmalldogrescue.com
Yorkshire Terrier Club of Houston
www.ytcgh.com
www.lsbr.org
Miniature Schnauzer Rescue of Houston
www.msrh.org
National Parrot Rescue and Preservation
www.parrotfestival.org
PugHearts, the Houston Pug Rescue
www.pughearts.com
Second Chance Poms
www.secondchancepoms.org
November 2009 | 23
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To Board Or Not To Board Kennels Vs Sitters Or Private Boarding
With the holidays fast approaching many of us are planning out of town trips to visit friends or relatives. Often this means that we must leave our furry family members behind. This leaves but a few options for the care of our beloved companions. Some of us are fortunate enough to have friends or neighbors willing to look after our pets and home in our absence. Others November 2009 | 25
panions in residence. Some of these services also offer pet taxi service.
must make the decision as to whether to leave our pet at home under the care of a professional pet sitter or place them in a kennel or in private boarding. There are of course pros and cons to both. Having your pet remain at home allows her to remain in her familiar environment adhering to her normal routine as much as is possible. This is especially important for elderly pets, pets that have not been well socialized and pets that are easily stressed. In this instance having a pet sitter available to visit 2-3 times a day to play with your pet, take her for walks and give her whatever attention she 26 | www.TexasCatsAndDogs.com
needs is an option. Another option could be to have the sitter spend the night in your home. This not only helps the pet but your house is cared for as well and remains occupied in your absence. What about private boarding. Here your pet is cared for in professional pet sitter’s home where they are not crated or kenneled unless requested by the pet owner. Pets are generally given the run of the house and treated as “one of the family”. Rates are all inclusive and the pets have company 24/7. The client is not charged extra for play time or giving the pet extra attention and the pet always has other four footed com-
Kennels offer another alternative. Cost is generally much less and your pet is confined to a crate with a run or given a suite. Clients usually pay extra for giving the pet one on one attention and often the pets are left alone at night. Pick up and drop off times are structured and not always available 7 days a week. Fetch Pet Care offers alternatives to kenneling. We also offer pet taxi services to assist you in taking your pet to the vet, groomer or where ever she needs to go. Whichever option you choose for the care of your furry family member be sure they are insured and bonded. Ask for references from other pet owners who have used the service. Will they update you on your pet on a daily basis if you so choose? Can you pick up and drop off your pet at any time? Ask questions and feel comfortable with whomever you choose to care for your pet. This will insure your peace of mind and you can’t put a price on that. And remember, At Fetch-“we’ve got your tail covered!”
The Nation’s Largest Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service
November 2009 | 27
Business Spotlight
Kingsland Boulevard Animal Clinic
Dr. Richard Croft In an effort to let our readers get to know the businesses in the area, each month Texas Cats & Dogs will sit down with these local companies and find out a little more about their services, products and even a little about themselves. by Jeff Parker Our first interview was done with our featured Veterinary clinic, Kingsland Boulevard Animal Clinic (or KBAC for short). We were able to talk to one of the partners and active veterinarians, Dr. Croft, and ask him some questions about the clinic and beyond.
however, the land was scarce around the area and too pricey. The landlord gave us a great deal to stay and move to the larger space we are at now. It is about 6300 square feet. So, after a year of planning, we moved in to the new space Oct. 2008.”
The beginning of KBAC began in October 1981 by Dr. Rebecca Nichols and Susan Randlett. Located in the current strip center, KBAC was on the opposite corner and much smaller. Dr. Croft joined the practice in June of 1985, he remembers, “It had 2 exam rooms, a surgery table and X-ray all in one room, one small treatment area, etc.” Back then they were open on Saturdays from 8am to noon. “Within a short time, our Sat. hours went to 8-2. We kept growing and enlarged the clinic to 3 exam rooms, a larger treatment area and a separate surgery room. I don’t remember when exactly, but we kept growing and our Sat hours went to 9-4 to keep up with all the appointments. We also expanded again to 5 exam rooms, more boarding and cage space, 3500 square feet, added grooming space , bigger reception area, etc.”, recalls Dr. Croft. As Dr. Croft thinks back, “My vision was to have a free standing clinic one day;
And this is not just your regular vet’s clinic. We were lucky to get a tour of the clinic during the Open House this past month, and let me tell you, this clinic is down right beautiful and very clean and organized. There are multiple private exam rooms, separate boarding areas for cats and dogs, an extremely well designed main room where exams and treatment can be done as well. There is an ICU area for recovery and an operating room as well. Kingsland Blvd. Animal Clinic now has 5 full time vets and 2 part time Vets. Says Dr. Croft, “None of us are true board certified specialists, but myself and Dr. Rico treat birds and exotics, Dr. Shows is known for his orthopedic surgeries. Dr. Randlett is known for her expertise on feline care.” KBAC offers a full service clinic which includes internal medicine, general medicine, surgery, radiology, dentistry, oncology, laser therapy, bathing, boarding, exotics, and a pharmacy. They are
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Business Spotlight Dr. Richard Croft continued from page 25
fishing, bowling, hiking, and family time, and hopes one day to buy land out in the country and enjoy some country life. He has 1 dog, Bandit, a sheltie rescue dog, who is 13 years old. He also has 4 birds, 2 Quakers and 2 Cockatiels, one that s 26 years old. As for his sons, I would say Dr. Croft has done very well raising them; Bryan is presently a junior at Texas A&M in bio medical science. Kevin just graduated from Texas State with a degree in Criminal Justice. On the Horizon for Kingsland Blvd. Animal clinic, Dr. Croft says, “My goals now for the clinic are for a steady, healthy growth and to stay up to date with changes in medicine So what makes Dr. Croft be so dedicated to and technology. We do have most of the healing our extended family members? “I had newest updates as in our phone and compute systems, e-mails, websites, a desire to be a vet since etc. We are continuing to I was probably 10. I have I had a desire to be a grow. We have almost 35 always enjoyed animals employees now with an and was always interested vet since I was probably in science. I took a science 10. I have always enjoyed office and practice manager to try to run the clinclass in high school where animals and was always ic at its full potential.” you dissected a cat with a interested in science. teacher everyone hated. I Dr. Croft promotes good loved that class, not necessarily the teacher, but that really set in my service as the reason for their success, “I desire and goals. I graduated from Texas would contribute our growth over the years to A&M Veterinary School in 1985, which I got reasonable prices, great customer care, good into after my junior year of undergraduate.” medicine, etc. Clients really love the vets at Dr. Croft has been happily married to his KBAC.” And after meeting the staff and the wife, Donna, for 27 years and has two sons doctors, I could not agree more. This is one Kevin and Bryan. “Donna and I actually of the finest clinics around and only looking went o the same Elementary school but really for ways to improve for the betterment of our met and started dating in our senior year of families’ pets. From all of us at Texas Cats & high school.” Dr. Croft spent a lot of time Dogs, Thank you Dr. Croft and everyone at like many of us fathers on a baseball field or Kingsland Blvd. Animal Clinic. Keep up the scouting with our sons. He enjoys camping, excellent work. also planning to add training to their services as well as added rehab services.
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Bring this ad in for a complimentary gift!
Veterinarians: Richard Croft Susan Randlett Toby Shows Adela Rico Jennifer Smoot Molly Obergfell
Dogs, Cats, Birds & Exotics Wellness Care Immunizations Dentistry Bathing Boarding Surgery Laser Surgery Digital Radiology Ultrasound
20701 Kingsland Blvd., Suite 105 (across from Taylor High School)
281.578.1506
kingslandvet.com
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