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Houston
creating your dog’s disaster survival kit
October 2011
Bridgeland’s
Howl-o-Ween Fest
presents the
3rd Annual Spooktacular
Saturday, October 29 10am-4pm in Oak Meadow Park Muttville Comix c Splash Dogs Dock-Diving Competition c Performance by Houston Canine Frisbee Disc Club c World Famous Circus Clown “Guennadi” & His Entertaining Dog Act c Magician & Street Performers c Food Truck Area with a Variety of Unique Cuisine c Trick-or-Treating for Kids & Pets c Pet Products & Services Booths c Doggie Fashion Show & Pet Parade c Fall Fest Area with Carnival-Themed Games & Activities Sponsored by Foundry Church c Farmers’ Market & Pumpkin Patch c Pumpkin Decorating c And much more! c Proceeds will Benefit Participating Animal Rescue Groups
For more information visit www.bridgeland.com/events
FIND BALANCE 2010 Texas Association of Builders’ Developer of the Year 2010 GHBA Developer of the Year 11,400-acre master-planned community Homes from the $170s to over $1 million 281-304-5588 or toll free 1-866-232-0270 www.bridgeland.com Dogs must be leashed and under control at all times, current on all vaccinations and wearing a current rabies tag. Aggressive dogs are not permitted on the premises. Dogs must be removed at the first sign of aggression.
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www.parklandkennel.com 615 Pitts Rd. • Richmond, TX 77406
{contents}
EDITOR
Shannan Parker Tel: 281.781.4727 info@texascatsanddogs.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jeff Parker Tel: 281.781.4727
DESIGNER
Fran Sherman 314.275.2208 fran@shermanstudios.com
Contributing Writers
Cover by Annamarie Johnson, Dogs for the Paws
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12 Upcoming Events Bridgeland’s Howl-o-Ween Fest
Octoberfest and Microchipping
11
Avoiding Halloween Horrors: Halloween safety tips for your pet
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Puppy 101
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photographer Sonya Sellers
correction from our September Issue: The writer for the article on the American Pit Bull was Dean Miller of Club Canine
20 Pawz-itively Natural Holiday dangers
Do you believe?
22 Tugg Tales
Your Dog’s 14 Creating Disaster Survival Kit
Deogi, 24 Dougie Rescue Reporter
16 Center Stage 18
Houston Dog Blog Tricia Fagan Nadine Jol-Coeur Amy Kelly Dean Miller Blake Ovard Susan Randlett D.V.M.
26 28 Pumpkin Treats for Pets Marketplace
Meet the Vet Preventing leptospirosis
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{October 2011}
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ADVERTISE WITH US!
281.781.4727 • Houston@TexasDogsAndCats.com Next Issue: November 2011 Advertiser’s Deadline: October 15th 2011
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{upcomingevents}
‘Paws-itively’ Good Time Promised at
Bridgeland’s
howl-o-ween fest T
ails are already wagging as Bridgeland embarks on a Fido favorite event — Howl-O-Ween Fest, set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, in Bridgeland’s Oak Meadow Park. The annual pup party, which drew more than 3,000 dog lovers last year, offers plenty of fun for two- and four-legged family members. Top dog on this year’s stage schedule is Johnny Peers and the Muttville Comix, which performs at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. With appearances on David Letterman, Primetime Live and the Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey Circus, the comedy act stars mostly rescue dogs. Returning this year after successful shows in 2010 are Guennadi and his world-famous dog act, who performs at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., and the gravity-defying canine antics of the Houston Canine Frisbee Disc Club, which performs at noon. And especially for young audiences is a magic show by Houston’s Lanny Kibbey, who performs at 2 p.m. Also slated to appear is Dog Gone Fun Agility, which will have skilled pooches hop and weave through a canine-friendly obstacle course.
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As in previous years, HowlO-Ween Fest is a pit stop for the “Splash Dogs” dock-diving competition, which takes place both Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 29 and 30. Highranking dogs for 2011 have leaped more than 25 feet into the water. Learn more and register at www.splashdogs. com or at the event. There will be a registration fee, with a portion going toward HowlO-Ween fundraising efforts. Other Howl-O-Ween Fest treats include a 1 p.m. pooch fashion show and costume contest, with prizes going to the top three winners, a farmers’ market with pumpkin patch, several rounds of bingo with prizes awarded,
street performers and nearly 30 pet vendors. As in years past, Foundry Church will hold its annual fall event during Howl-O-Ween Fest, with carnival games, bounce houses, a miniature train, laser tag and more. Most activities will be free; however a few will fetch a small donation, which will go to participating animal rescue groups, including Cocker Spaniel Rescue of East Texas — Houston, Chesapeake Bay Retriever Relief & Rescue, Great Dane Rescue of Southeast Texas, Husky Haven, Golden Retriever Rescue of Houston, Weimaraner Rescue of Texas and Pups Squad Animal Rescue.
poster for cat show
Quieting hunger growls will be a caravan of food trucks trekking to Bridgeland for the day. Already on tap for the event are Fusion Taco, The Berry Boys, Papa John’s Pizza, Grill ‘em Girls, Grill Marks, Texas Best Snoballs, Frosted Betty and Flaming Patties. And while fun will be unleashed throughout the day, dogs will have to remain on their leashes at all times. Plus, pets must be current on all vaccinations, wear a current rabies tag and be on their best behavior — any aggressive pooches will be asked to leave to keep the event enjoyable for everyone. Sponsoring Howl-O-Ween Fest are Doody Calls, David
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Weekley Homes, Highland Homes, Village Builders, Lennar Homes, Cypress Falls Pet Resort and Spa, D.L. Meacham and Republic Services. Goodie bag sponsors are RE/MAX All-Stars/Lippincott Team, Godwin Family Dentistry, Perry Homes and Run Over Cancer – Mistletoe Fun Run. Sponsorships for the event are still available. For information, phone 281213-9600 or download the sponsor packet at http://www. bridgeland.com/2011-howlo-ween-fest-sponsors. Howl-O-Ween Fest is just one of several events bringing people to Bridgeland this year. Thousands attended the annual Nature Fest held this spring as well as racing events happening throughout the year. Learn more about HowlO-Ween Fest and other
Bridgeland events at http:// www.bridgeland.com/events. Also, visit Bridgeland on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/Bridgelandcommunity and Twitter, http:// twitter.com/BridgelandTX. Photo Information Howl-O-Ween Fest Costumed canines will again parade the streets of Bridgeland during annual Howl-O-Ween festivities 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29. In addition to a costume contest, the event will include performances by Johnny Peers and the Muttville Comix and the Houston Canine Frisbee Disc Club, pet-themed vendors, a “Splash Dogs” dockdiving competition, carnival games, gourmet food trucks, farmers‘ market, pumpkin patch and more.
advertisehere
About Bridgeland The Bridgeland community is a development of the Howard Hughes Corporation, which owns, manages and develops commercial, residential and mixed-use real estate throughout the United States, including Las Vegas, Manhattan and Honolulu. As owner of Bridgeland and The Woodlands, the Howard Hughes Corporation is one of the largest master-planned community developers in the Houston area.
281.781.4727 • sales@TexasCatsAndDogs.com
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dogtoberfest and microchipping Pooches and their People Get Ready for “SPOOK-TACULAR” FUN
D
og lovers can embark on a day of canine camaraderie during the GLF Pet Community. Dogtoberfest and Microchipping Event. Set for October 22 from 12 to 4 p.m. the event will be held at the entrance of Gleannloch Farms in the area nearest Auto Care.
The family-and-Fido event will include a silent auction, a mobile vet for micro chipping, Groomers, a live band, pet adoption, vendors, to include pet food analysis by Natural Pawz, trick-or-treating for kids and dogs and even concessions for pets and their people. A Fun Pix photo session will also be available. Fun for all will be a costume contest for both dogs and their owners. Categories include: Best Movie-Themed 10
Costume, Best Two-legged Costume (person), Best four legged costume (pooch), Best Themed Pet/Owner Pairing, Most original, Audience Favorite, Best Pet Trick, Best Owner/Pet Look alike, and a Face Only a Mother Could Love (four legged). Also, during the day, Dr. Henson with Louetta Animal Hospital will be inserting micro chips for the low cost of $25 for both dogs and cats. All registration of the chips
will be done on site and the proceeds with benefit animal rescue . Included in the charitable efforts will be a Fun Pix photo session for a $5 donation. And while fun will be unleashed throughout the day, dogs will have to remain on their leashes at all times. Pets must be on their best behavior-any aggressive pooches will be asked to leave the event enjoyable for everyone.
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horrors: Halloween Safety Tips for Your Pets By Monica Schmidt, Houston Humane Society
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avoiding Halloween H
alloween has gone to the dogs… and the cats too! Holidays aren’t just for people anymore. We’ve seen an incredible rise in the number of pet owners who include their fur-babies in planned festivities. And if the costume racks at most pet stores are any indication, Halloween has definitely become a favorite. As with any change in your pet’s routine, this fun filled holiday can be quite stressful. Luckily, Houston Humane Society has a few quick and easy tips to help you and your four legged friend enjoy a happy, healthy, and humane Halloween.
The age old custom of handing out tasty treats and yummy confections can create a temptation too sweet for even the most obedient pet to ignore. If you plan to hand out candy this Halloween, be sure to keep them out of the reach of your pet. At minimum you will be dealing with an upset stomach, and many ingredients can be toxic like chocolate and the sweetener Xylitol. And those pesky wrappers can create a choking hazard! Even the most well adjusted pet can become stressed out by the noise and commotion of trick-or-treaters, strange costumes, and general disruption to their daily schedule. Be sure to take extra care with your furkid. Plan to walk your pet early before little goblins and ghouls take to the streets. Consider setting aside a room in the house to isolate your dog or cat during the hectic trick-or-treat time. The constant opening of doors and ringing bells could lead to disaster if your pet darts out. It’s a good idea to make sure your pet has up to date ID tags on their collars, just in case they escape! What Halloween is complete without a Jack O’ Lantern? If you plan to incorporate this fun, creative decoration into your festivities, consider switching to flameless tea lights rather than the traditional burn-
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ing candles. Quick and easy to use, you can pick up a 10 pack at Walmart for $12 (batteries included!). You won’t have to worry about a darting dog or cat accidentally tipping over your carved pumpkin and creating a fire hazard! It’s all about the costumes this holiday season. Whether you plan to transform your pet into a blood sucking vampire, turn them into an impish fairy, or morph them from super dog to super hero, make sure their outfit is not restrictive or overly annoying. Be mindful of anything that dangles as your pet could easily become entangled or even choke. While many pets enjoy hamming it up for an audience, some prefer to leave the costumes to their human handlers. Go with what makes your pet happy. However you choose to include your pet this Halloween, with a little forethought everyone can have a wonderful time. Looking for a new pet? HHS has you covered. Join us October 28th – 31st for a Pet-tacular Halloween adoption special. Every dog and cat has a special $31 adoption fee because tricks & treats might last for weeks, but pet adoption is furever! 11
{puppy101} by Tricia Fagan
do you believe? T
here are many different beliefs in dog training. Some dog trainers talk about “being the alpha”. Many insist that you must “show the dog who’s the boss”. How is a dog owner supposed to choose a dog trainer? Is it really necessary to frighten your dog in order to make him well behaved?
Let’s change the context a little bit. If you have an infection, do you go to a doctor? Or do you try an old wives’ tale remedy? If you go to a doctor for an infection, do you expect him to prescribe antibiotics? How does the doctor know to use antibiotics on an infection? How do you know that the sun will always rise in the east, and set in the west? When you get out of bed in the morning, do you worry about falling up to the ceiling? We know these things through science. Science tells us that antibiotics fight infections, the sun will always rise in the east, that gravity will assure falling down, instead of falling up. It 12
is
nice to be able to count on these things. Wouldn’t it be nice if there were a science devoted to the training of your dog? Well, there is a science devoted to animal training. It is called applied behavior analysis. Like many scientific discoveries, applied behavior analysis allows the best, fastest, most humane results. Trying to change a dog’s behavior without scientific knowledge is likely to result in inefficient methods, and perhaps unnecessary punishment applied to the dog. You would not choose a doctor who had not been to medical school. Don’t choose a
dog trainer who supports unfounded beliefs. Choose a dog trainer who understands the scientific principles behind animal training. A trainer who understands the science should be able to train many different species of animals. Dogs, cats, birds, elephants, and fish all learn the same way. How do you find someone who understands the science? Depending on the severity of your problem, you might choose one of three types of qualifications. The most qualified, educated person will be a veterinary behaviorist. A vet behaviorist has all the training of a regular vet, plus years of additional training
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about animal behavior. All of the veterinary behaviorists in the United States are listed here: http://www.dacvb.org/ resources/find/ The next group, Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists, can be found here: http:// www.animalbehavior.org/ ABSAppliedBehavior/caabdirectory Finally, you can find a Certified Professional Dog Trainer here: http://www.ccpdt. org/index.php?option=com_ certificants&Itemid=102 The above groups have various levels of education, but each has proven knowledge of applied behavior analysis. If you have a dog trainer who tells you that it {October 2011}
is necessary to yell at your dog, to throw things, to alpha roll or frighten your dog, review your choice of trainer. You can have a wonderfully well behaved pet without any yelling or hitting. Your dog should be your friend and family member. You would not yell at or hit your friends or family. Consider science based training for your beloved pet. Tricia Fagan Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed DogS Gone Good www.dogSgonegood.com trainer@dogSgonegood.com (713) 557-1949
20% From mangy mutt OFF to StyliSh Cut on first time
visits
any size dog • flea bath • pawdicure haircut • dematting • de-shedding
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SUGAR LAND • MISSOURI CITY
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creating your dog’s
by william given
disastersurvialkit D
ogs are an important part of our lives and many of us consider them a member of the family. They depend on us for so very much. It is our responsibility to keep them safe and that includes during emergencies and natural disasters. In the event of an emergency such as a fire, tornado or other natural disaster, you may be forced to evacuate your home. Being prepared is often critical to survival. Assembling your dog’s survival kit today will give you some peace of mind and save precious minutes if or when an emergency does occur. To create a disaster survival kit for your dog, include the following items in a sturdy container. I have two dogs and prepared my kit using a Rubbermaid 18 gallon storage box. • A leash and collar or harness. • Bottles of fresh water, enough for three days. • A several day supply of dog food and treats, a long with information on your dog’s eating habits and food allergies. • Any medications your dogs is on, in a waterproof container plus information on
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dosage and frequency. • Clean bedding. • Grooming supplies. • Cleaning supplies including plastic bags, a roll of paper towels and a small bottle of disinfectant. • A canine first aid kit tailored to your breed and the number of dogs you own. In your kit, keep a file of important documents that may prove helpful in an emergency. Include copies of vaccination records and any treatments records on existing medical conditions, copies of registration papers, adoption
papers, bill of sale or proof of purchase, microchip or other identification information. It is especially important to remember that having your dog microchipped is useless unless it is also registered with the company. Also include a few recent photographs of you and your dog in case he or she becomes lost or separated. Write the breed, age, sex and color on the back. The photographs can also be used to help prove ownership of the dog. It will be helpful to include a list of emergency contacts, such as friends and relatives,
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especially someone who lives outside of the affected area. Include your veterinarian’s name, address, and telephone number. It may also be helpful to include information on pet-friendly motels that are a good driving distance from your home. Once you have placed all of your items in the box, if you have room, I recommend putting one or two duplicates of your dog’s favorite toys. They help put a dog more at ease in a time of heavy stress. Store the kit in an easy to access location next to or near his crate or kennel so that you can grab it quickly if you need to evacuate your home. Please make sure the crate is labeled with the dog’s name and your name, address, and telephone number. We may not be able to prevent a disaster from occurring, be we can minimize the impact. A little planning can help reduce injuries, loss and suffering.
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{centerstage}
Missy’s World welcome to
Y
ou may already know the widely popular and very unique artwork from artist Annamarie “Missy” Johnson. Her work can be seen during events with local pet rescues in California to media events in Indianapolis. She loves everything to do with animals and is a huge advocate of rescues and shelters across the country. Missy is a graphic designer and illustrator as well as the creative genius behind Dogs for the PAWS, a national pet rescue awareness site that is inspiring pet lovers to rescue, foster, adopt, volunteer and love pets in need. Dogs for the PAWS is an art and education project that started with 80 rescue dogs from all around the country. Missy paints the dogs’ portraits and includes their touching stories of rescue and rehabilitation written by their companions and rescuers.
Being a full time professional graphic designer by day and the popular artist and pet advocate that everyone knows and loves on Facebook and Twitter in her free time, keeps Missy hopping. In “Missy’s World” it’s all about the animals. From posting about baby elephants in need in Malaysia to painting a 5 foot tall fiberglass turtle for the South Carolina Aquarium’s Turtle hospital fundraiser, you will find Missy working and challenging herself to help in her unique way. She believes all animals deserve respect and love as well as awareness to their needs. With her variety of illustration and painting skills, she can speak out across the masses without saying 16
a word. People are drawn to her colorful and creative style which is gaining national attention and creating a niche artist category all her own. When she puts paint brush to canvas, there are animals in need and Missy is there to help however she can. She and her husband Jim are pet parents to 5 dogs, 4 of which are rescues. They volunteer with the Carolina Basset Hound Rescue. Painting the dogs of the “Paws Pack” as they are called, she captured the hope for the future in their eyes. With the World at her fingertips...through Facebook, Twitter and the blog, she can posts to all her local sites, as well as national sites, groups, events, etc... The project
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was first introduced nationally by DogTipper.com and it continues to gain popularity and fans. The PAWS PACK families, as they are fondly known, have written and contributed stories and posts to bring more attention to animals in need and the shelters/rescues that found these animals. More and more people are networking and the portraits and designs are becoming very well known across the country. She hopes to build on the different uses that the artwork and project offers through it’s message from a Gallery show-Yappy Hour event to offering rescues and other pet groups programs that they can use to promote their animals in need. Challenging herself to get back to painting, Missy had no idea what this special project would do to her heart and World. Nico the Dogo Argentino, captures your heart with his hazel and blue colored eyes. Missy admits she cried for over 8 hours as she painted Nico’s portrait. Then there is Rosie the puppy mill basset hound, Pete the Pitbull who inspired his family to begin their own rescue and Chamberlin, the sweet black dog left tied to a tree and forgotten. Riley the 13 year old Lab mix who spent his entire life at the end of a chain til he broke free and was rescued. All these works of the heart, have become not just loves of their families and rescu{October 2011}
ers but a part of Missy’s life. She jokes that she kept the Kleenex Company in business during the 503 days it took her to finish the original 80 portraits. She displays the paintings on her studio wall where they can keep motivating her to continue painting and working. Dogs for the PAWS and Missy’s stunning artwork have been featured in numerous printed and online publications From FIDO Friendly, DogTipper.com, Lowcountry Dog Magazine, Indy Tails, Wadsworth News, and PeoplePets Online. She has been a guest blogger for everyone from BlogPaws to FIDO Friendly. She is a contributing writer for Life+Dog Magazine. Her passion and love for animals is inspiring to everyone Missy meets. Dogs for the Paws has brought a huge following to her artwork and message of hope for animals in need. She offers affordable design and illustration that rescues and other pet organizations can use for their events, fundraising and social media promotion of animals up for adoption. Her work helps the groups stand out at events with unique tshirts and ad promotionals that are sold to raise funds. She is proud to say her unique designs, custom painted furniture and painted windows have helped raise thousands of dollars for homeless pets across the country.
If you want to catch up with Missy, schedule a commission or join Dogs for the PAWS you can find them on Twitter, Facebook and the blog... www.dogsforthepaws.com.
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{meetthevet} By Susan Randlett, D.V.M. and Amy Webb 18
Trouble with Tucker
“gone fishin” Mom: “Tucker, what are you doing?” Tucker: “I’m fishin’ for bass.” Mom: “You’re fishing by yourself? Where are your friends?” Tucker: “They couldn’t come because they aren’t protected. I told them that I would keep them safe and be very careful. Guess I’m not qualified. Anyway, I don’t understand what’s the danger—coyotes, foxes, sharks, piranhas or drowning?” Mom:“Tucker, the danger to your friends when they are outdoors is exposure to a very tiny organism, Leptospira, that can cause severe infection often resulting in death. There is a good vaccine to protect dogs. Fortunately, you are vaccinated so you can go outside where the danger lurks. Let’s talk about the disease to better understand exposure risk and disease symptoms and treatment.” Leptospirosis, from an owner’s perspective, is one of the many canine diseases that can be prevented by annual vaccination. A significant difference between this disease and other canine diseases is that it can be transmitted from an infected dog to people. Additionally, vaccinations must be given annually to be effective. You are probably wondering
why dogs can go up to three years without a Parvo, Distemper or Rabies vaccination but need an annual Lepto booster? The reason lies with the type of organism responsible for the different diseases. Leptospirosis is caused by a bacteria and the others by viruses. Leptospirosis has been reported worldwide. Highest infection rates occur in
tropical climates, where there is high rainfall and humidity. More than one hundred cases of canine leptospirosis are reported annually in the United States. The number of cases has recently increased due to urbanization, and exposure to wildlife, rats and livestock. People at risk include veterinary personnel, farmers, hunters, water sport enthusiasts and pet owners.
tospira organisms several ways. Direct transmission occurs through abraded or irritated skin or the mucous membranes. Transmission occurs indirectly by ingestion of contaminated food or water. After exposure the bacteria travels to the dog’s kidney and/or liver. The time between exposure and damage to these organs is a matter of only 1-2 days, and treatment must be instituted quickly in order to be effective. Keeping dogs away from potential infectious sources is the best means of prevention, however, this is not practical. Spread of disease can be minimized by controlling res-
ervoir hosts, such as rodents, and removing standing water. Annual Leptospirosis boosters are a very effective way to protect dogs from this potentially deadly disease. Vaccination protocols should be discussed with a veterinarian to determine if a pet is a good candidate for this protection. “Tucker, because you love the outdoors and hunt vermin you are a prime candidate for this vaccine. You are protected and we can protect your friends by having this same discussion with their owners.”
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Leptospira are carried and spread by wildlife. The mammalian hosts include skunks, raccoons and possums, the most common being rodents and carnivores. Birds, amphibians and invertebrates also serve as carriers. When one of the reservoir hosts is exposed, the organism localizes in the kidneys and then sheds in the urine contaminating the soil, streams and standing fresh water. Outside the host the organism can live for weeks and months. Leptospira bacteria are not only found in rural areas but also in wooded areas, parks and suburban backyards. A pet can contact lep-
Sharon Moore, DVM Tucker Robinson, DVM
C. N. McDonald, DVM Julie A. Duty, DVM
Aaron Rainer, DVM Stephanie Ginestra, DVM
holidaydangers H
Pet costumes may be cute but they can be dangerous. Buttons, elastic and shiny fabric can be dangerous if ingested or can injure your pet. If you want to dress up your pet, make sure that the costume is not too tight. If you think your pet may ingest parts of the costume, never leave them unattended. A fun idea might be to make your own costume. A bandana can be made with a piece of fabric cut in a square or triangle. You can also look to modify some everyday pet apparel as a costume. If fits better and typically will not have all that shiny material and buttons.
olidays is a time of joy and celebration. Each year during the various holiday seasons, thousands of pets are seriously injured and/or become deathly ill or may be lost. It’s a busy time, lots of coming and going and can be stressful for us and with just a little planning can make a big difference for your Pet.
By Nadine Joli-Coeur
{pawz-itivelynatural}
Keep your pets in a secure place when you have people coming and going at your house. I don’t know how many times I have heard of pets running out the front door or back gate was improperly shut. Noise and lots of people in the home can be stressful for your pet. Ask your guests and family members not to leave food around or doors open. Even the best behaved pet may bolt or eat something they shouldn’t if the opportunity arises.
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TREATS, TREATS, TREATS. Of course everyone wants to spoil your pet. Ask your guests to not to give your pet anything without your permission, especially cooked bones. Rich foods can result in diarrhea and fatty foods can result in pancreatitis which is never fun. Cooked bones, especially poultry can splinter and can create blockages or tear something. Just keep a stash of your pets favorite treats nearby and let your guests give those to your {October 2011}
pets. Another fun thing to do is to get a toy that you can fill with treats and and freeze it. Some good stuffers are bananas, yogurt, sugar free apple sauce. Or you may want to consider having a long lasting treat such as an antler, bully sticks or interactive toy filled with treats to keep them occupied. Remember don’t give them too many treats as your pet may have gas (which we all have experienced the odor emitting from it) or could have loose or runny stool My rule of thumb is that the less processed the better. Increased fear or nervousness of pets during the holidays. Costumes can be scary for most pets. Face masks and loud noises are sure to make even a docile pet nervous. Although your pet may be good with kids, when kids are over excited them tend to scare pets. Instead of taking Pets trick or treating with your kids, why not take your kids and pets to a pet friendly event. For example Natural Pawz locations will have halloween goodies for all the four legged dressed up this Halloween. Of course, make sure all candy is out of reach. Firstly, candy is bad, can cause blockages and can be toxic (chocolate). Wrappers can cause internal injuries if swallowed - foil wrappers can be like a razor as it is swallowed and ingested. Other Holidays Don’t be surprised if your pet children are in the kitchen while holiday goodies are being prepared. Your pet can easily tip pots with drippings (that smell fantastic to them) or you might trip over your
pet, causing severe scalding and burns. Decorations Hang your treasured ornaments up high out of reach. Use wooden, metal, resin-cast or the like decorations. Also, replace any metal hooks for hanging decorations with tightly knotted ribbon or twine. Seasonal Plants. A number of Christmas season plants are poisonous to pets. Some festive plants that can be toxic are; Holly, Ivy, Mistletoe, Poinsettia, Lily, Star of Bethlehem , Christmas cactus, Jerusalem cherry, Hibiscus, Christmas green (e.g. pine, cedar). [http:// www.aspca.org/pet-care/ poison-control/plants]. Presents Keep in mind possible dangers to your pet when you buy presents. With all the excitement your Pet may chew on items they shouldn’t be chewing on. Enjoy spending time with your family, friends and make sure to include your pets. By including your pets as part of the festivities, you will be able to minimize possible harzards.
NATURAL PAWZ TIP of the MONTH. Create your own treats. Find an ice cube tray with a cute shape and fill with unsweetened canned pumpkin and freeze. Pumpkin is an excellent source of minerals and vitamins and also helps pets digestion.
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{tuggtales} By Blake Ovard 22
E
ven though my super hero dog, Tugg, is Dog-In-Chief of the magazine you now hold in your paws, he’s sat on the star on the 50-yard line at Cowboys Stadium, he’s saved the world from numerous stick monster invasions and comforted many elderly and young people, sometimes he and I still get news that makes his tail wag uncontrollably. Early last month we got the kind of news that was both humbling and made Tugg’s tail wag for three days straight. No, the news was not that the evil stick monsters and porch-swing cushion monsters were surrendering for good. No it was not that Tugg won a lifetime supply of bones, or that his dinner bowl would always be full — it was bigger news than that. Our phone rang, and though Tugg tried to get to it first — in case there was an emergency that required the only living super hero dog ever inducted into the Super Hero Hall of Fame at the Super Hero Museum in Elkhart, Indiana — I still managed to answer the call on my own. On the other end of the line was a representative from the American Kennel Club (AKC), in their New York office. Not that a call from the AKC is ordinary, but we do also own two Briards who are finished show champions, so at first I just thought the call was about them. But, it wasn’t. It was about Tugg. The caller was pleasant on the other end of the phone, and inquired as to if he had the correct household of Tugg the bull terrier. I informed him that, indeed, he had reached the correct household. At this point I glanced over at Tugg, who was sitting calmly at my feet waiting for me to tell him what the call was about. The caller continued, asking if I remembered that Tugg had been one of the 149 dogs nominated for the AKC’s Award of Canine Excellence (ACE). Certainly I had remembered that, as such a nomination is like being nominated for an Oscar. My mind was also
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racing, thinking that if the AKC were calling, he must have gotten an honorable mention, or that the AKC wanted to have a program locally where a nominee might go and represent dogs everywhere. “I am calling with what I think is good news,” the caller said over the airwaves. I could almost see him smiling on the other end of the line, and I was thrilled that Tugg had probably gotten that honorable mention. “Tugg has won in the category of Exemplary Companion Dog.” “Thank you very much, it is such an honor. Wait,” I said and paused as the news sank in to my thick noggin. “Did you say, he won!?” “Indeed. You have an amazing dog there,” the caller said. There was more to the conversation after that, but to be honest, I really don’t remember much of it. Something about dates and getting to go to the AKC/Eukanuba National Dog Show in Orlando in December to receive the award, and a few other details. I’m pretty sure I asked more than once the question I wanted to make sure I had the correct answer too — “He did it? He really won?! This isn’t a practical joke is it?” The caller humored me and answered , “Yes he did” each time I repeated the question, and was happy along with us as I expressed great joy for everyone here each time he assured me Tugg did win and this was no practical joke. So, to Tugg’s growing list of achievements, I can now add 2011 AKC ACE winner. And, this one goes above just about everything else. When I said that being nominated is like being nominated for an Oscar, that is fairly accurate. Winning the award, however, is more than winning an Oscar. Winning the award is more like a person winning the Congressional Medal of Honor. When I hung up the phone, I looked down at Tugg, and over at my wife, who was smiling from ear-to-ear because {September 2011}
I seem to have the volume on my cell phone loud enough for even the people down the street to hear, and I just shook my head in almost disbelief. “Did you hear what your dog just did?” I asked. “I know,” she answered. “Who should we call first?!” Tugg stood up, and put his front feet in my lap, and I gave him a big pet and told him how proud we were of everything he has done, from helping kids to helping shelter animals. He walked over to his mommy and repeated the same thing he had just done to me, in a way that almost mirrored the phone conversation where I had been asking the pleasant and helpful man from the AKC, “He really won?” I then opened Tugg’s e-mail to see what other surprises might lay in store for the award winner. There in his e-mail was a message from the Dallas Cowboys. I read through the message, and I smiled big again. Tugg looked at me. My wife looked at me. The Cowboys were asking if Tugg would be available for six appearances this season between now and Christmas Day. Are you kidding!? Of course he is available. So I answered back almost immediately. Tugg decided the moment was
right and took off through the house doing one of the things bull terriers are know for, their excited run/dance/ spin thing known around the globe as a “hucklebutt.” After bouncing off the walls, couches, beds and chairs, Tugg calmed down and trotted back into the office where we were each calling family members to tell them the good news about the ACE award. I’m sure most of our family now thinks both my wife and I are completely crazy. I looked down, and Tugg was again at my feet, this time holding his leash in his mouth, which usually indicates he wants to go for a walk. “OK,” I said. “But let me grab a dollar out of my wallet. With the kind of day you’re having, I want to walk by the store and buy a lottery ticket...” Blake Ovard is an award winning dog trainer, writer, editor, photojournalist and artist. When he’s not busy with those things, he also handles Tugg’s fan mail. You can follow Tugg’s adventures daily on facebook! www.facebook. com/TuggBullTerrier
sonya sellers photography
Rescue Reporter W ait! Just wait until you see what my nutsy, crazy lady owner made me do this weekend! Ok, so you know I don’t mind getting my picture taken, right? I know I’m cute so I’m ok with lots of pictures, but………
kim hartz photography
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Sunday, my absolutely CRAZY lady owner dragged me off to this horrible, busy, loud, noisy, lights-flashing charity event. COME ON. WHY do we have to go to an @#$%$ing charity event. Can’t these people just use their own money to pay for dogs and cats for goodness sake??? Or get their own hind-ends out and work for the money? No, there had to be this huge event with lots of people and I had to go and work and get photographed by every %$@ing one of the photographers!! It was the weekend so I was especially wanting to veg out. Sleep in, laze around, graze on a little people food - all day. But noooooooooo. I had to get up early, get a B.A.T.H. for goodness sake, get brushed, and even get clothes on and then in the car and off to an event WITH, oh, the shame, MY SISTERS! When I got there, I found out it was a benefit for Breast Cancer Research organizations and all of the sets had @#$#@ing P.I.N.K. decorations. Oh good grief. Oh no. Look at these photographs – pink everywhere. Good grief! Good grief! My crazy owner took a photo of me in front of a WALL OF BRAS. PINK BRAS. {September 2011}
fetching images photography
bean photography
{dougiedeogi}
Dougie Deogi
Oh the shame!! I just don’t get it, do you? All these photographers, Kim Hartz Photography, Sonya Sellers Photography, BeanPhoto, Elegant Portraits by Kian and Fetching Images Photography donated a TON of time – why? Hello? You ain’t making any money here folks, it’s all going to someone else – so why are you spending your time???? Unbelievable! And then there are these people, called S.P.O.N.S.O.R.S., that donated a bunch of stuff for raffles and give aways. Urban Tails let everyone use their entire facility for the event, Fluff Bake Bar and Rebecca Mason, a Top Chef – Just Deserts participant, donated some yummy snacks – at least that’s what I heard – crazy lady wouldn’t let me eat any of the brownies. HUMPH!! Then there was Buchanan’s Native Plants – ha! Now I know who to blame for all the pink flowers! HUMPH! Craft Salon and Della Ricca also contributed as well as John Ross Palmer Art. What’s up with that? People – I ain’t no accountant, but your bottom line has got to look pretty crappy if you give stuff like this away!!! Whew. I still just don’t get it Oh well, that’s why I just get to lay around and snooze
all day. It’s hurting my head to think about all of this. So, this is Dougie Deogi, Rescue Reporter, over and out. The proceeds also benefitted Homeless & Orphaned Pets Endeavor (H.O.P.E.), Homeless Pet Placement League (H.P.P.L.), Lucky Dog Rescue, Pup Squad, Lone Star Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso Rescue, and Corridor Rescue.
Dougie is the official spokes-dog for Lone Star Shih Tzu & Lhasa Apso Rescue(www.facebook. com/lsstlar) headquartered in Houston. He has his own facebook page, www.facebook.com/accordingtodougie, where you can follow his many adventures with his crazy lady owner.
Doggie Daycare, Boarding, Grooming and Obedience Training 6434 Washington Avenue Houston, TX 77007 713-868-7555 deogi@deogidogspa.com
{marketplace}
These squeaky fraidy cats are perfect for the playful pup! Ask your pet store about them!
These tasty, all natural, human grade cookies are a frightful treat! Available at Natural Pawz
Bewitching witch costume available at Pawty Palace
From glitzy witches to pirates, Wishbone in Mo. City has your tail covered!
The perfect gift for your little devil! Ask your local pet store about it This Buzzard is so cute you many not want to give it to your dog! Available at Natural Pawz!
From spooky collars to festive bows, Pawty Palace in Old Katy has it all!
Casper the ghost toys available at Natural Pawz
These high-quality skull Halloween Dog or Cat Collar Charms are full of Halloween fun! Available at the Pawty Palace!
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From spooky collars to festive bows, Pawty Palace in Old Katy has it all!
{October 2011}
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easy breezy
pumpkintreats for pets Homemade Halloween Dog Costume:
Last minute and you forgot about the dog? No worries! Turn your pooch into a dancing dog in no time. Find child’s ballet leotard with attached tutu. Cut out a hole for your dog’s tail, and stretch to fit. Bulldogs make absolutely adorable ballerinas!
Howl O Ween DOG WALK & EXPO Benefiting Citizens for Animal Protection Saturday, October 29, 2011 · 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch · 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd.
Costume Contest, Great Door Prizes, T-Shirts, Goody Bags... and Lots of Fun!!!
By Tiffany Robinson
Ingredients:
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Grab a leash & bring your precious pooch to LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch for a fun-filled morning of activities, including a 1.0 mile Dog Walk to help Citizens for Animal Protection raise money for their shelter pets.
• 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour • 2 eggs • 1 ¼ cup canned pumpkin (only use pumpkin puree, not the pie filling) • ¼ cup peanut butter • ½ tsp. ground cinnamon • Water (about ¼ cup, you may need more or less) • Additional flour for rolling
Instructions:
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees
F • Stir ingredients together in large mixing bowl, adding water as needed • Flatten and roll out dough, and cut into desired shape with cookie cutters • Bake greased cookie sheet for about 20 minutes • Let cool completely on a wire rack before serving Storage: Up to one week if stored at room temperature, 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator, or 1-2 months in the freezer
PLUS: • Enter your costumed canine in our HOWL-O-Ween Costume Contest for a chance to win great prizes! • All participants receive a Rover Pass for a free night of lodging at Rover Oaks or a discount on grooming or training • Visit with veterinarians, pet food distributors and other pet businesses. • Pick up a coupon to have your pet microchipped at CAP for the low cost of $15.
Revenge is best served cold as a snack…
On a recent trip to Louisiana, these cute voodoo doll rawhides stood out (and that’s saying something!) You could easily make your own rawhide voodoo dog chew at home for your pup this Halloween. Start with a thick rawhide chew plus a rawhide chewstick. Drill a hole clean through the thick rawhide to insert the chewstick as arms. To decorate, I used human food grade coloring and a toothpick. Get creative. Does your pooch have a vendetta against the mailman? No problem, make him his very own voodoo chew with USPS in blue food coloring. Show your football pride this season by having your pooch take out his angst on a voodoo chew representing your biggest rival! For the less crafty and creative, you can order handmade voodoo chews online at http://www.thejukejoint.com/vochravodofo.html. They cost $5 each, and $3 is donated to an animal charity. Not a bad deal for a creative and festive Halloween chew toy!
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A CHANCE TO WIN GREAT DOOR PRIZES FROM ROVER OAKS PET RESORT: Free boarding for one weekend · Free obedience training class · Free “pet makeover“ in the grooming salon For more information or to pre-register, call Darci McFerran at 281-497-0591 or go to the CAP website at www.cap4pets.org
Rover P E T
{October 2011}
Oaks R E S O R T
Waggin Tails Pet Ranch
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Pawz
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