Volume 2 T Issue 4
Complimentary
Rest Easy: An Informed Approach to Anesthesia
What a Super Trooper!
They Need Your Voice: The Importance of Animal Laws in NC
A Temporary Home:
Why You Should Consider Fostering
High Flyin’ Fun:
Explore the Sport of Disc Dogs
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PUBLISHER'S NOTE
Brehmer Barks It is hard to believe that this is the last issue for 2012—where has the year gone?! The Triangle Dog has gone through some changes this year, including a new Editor and a new Art Director; Chuck and I cannot thank Allison and Michele enough for their contributions in 2012! We feel we have a great team and we hope you have enjoyed the subtle changes that we have made together over the past year. Like the summer issue, this fall issue focuses on a serious topic, this time animal cruelty. Many of you may have heard about a recent bill passed in North Carolina: Susie’s Law. This legislation came about because a puppy, Susie, was found in a Greensboro, NC park, left to die after being brutally beaten, doused in gasoline, and set on fire, all because she had licked the face of the owner’s baby. Because of the limited animal cruelty laws in NC, when the perpetrator was convicted, he only served 4 months of probation and 8 months in jail. Though the law has now changed, this topic is still important among animal lovers in NC. That is why we are utilizing this issue to bring awareness to animal cruelty in one of our feature stories, as well as in our Tails from the Heart section where you can read Susie’s full story. In addition to this important topic, you can find the usual columns in this issue: Natural Dog, where you can learn about TTouch; Safety 101, with advice on how to stop puppy biting; and Dogs @ Play, where you can read about the fun of Disc Dogs. As we wrap up 2012, we want to again thank all of our readers and supporters for your continued support. We are thrilled to continue this journey with all of our fellow dog lovers in the Triangle, and want to hear from you so we can partner in creating a better life for your dog. Until next time, Chuck & Angie Brehmer (and Morrie, Millie, Elsie, and Cindy Lu) Publishers/Editor-in-Chief
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Elsie
Table of contents Volume 2 • Issue 4
Cover Story:
Departments: 4 Publisher's Note 5 Table of Contents 6 Masthead 8 Contributors 28 Ask the Groomer 30 Triangle Happenings 34 Ask the Vet 38 The T-Dog ‘Round Town 40 Picture This!
33 Natural Dog: The Magic of TTouch 36 Safety 101: Why Puppies Bite 42 Canine Careers: Keeping It All Under Control 43 Training: Fostering for a Successful Future 44 Tails from the Heart: Susie’s Story: A Tale of
Columns:
Features:
12 Shelter Spotlight: Paws4ever 13 Adoptable Dogs: Paws4ever 16 Nutrition: What’s in the Bag: Carbohydrates 18 Animal Health & Wellness: Anesthesia – Worth the Risk?
22 Dogs @ Play: Disc Dogs: We’re All Winners 26 Pet Friendly Business: Calling All Nature Buffs
14 My Miracle Boy
by Heather Jaynes Marcellino
Strength, Action, & Change
10 NC Animal Laws: Speak Up for Those Who Can’t by Elizabeth Wilson
20 Does Coat Color Really Matter? by Sean Drummond
32 Transforming Lives by Fostering by Karen Carlton
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Founders: Chuck Brehmer and Angela Brehmer
Volume 2 • Issue 4
“Helping You Create a Better Life For Your Dog” Publisher: Chuck Brehmer Editor-in-Chief: Angela Brehmer Editor: Allison Bennett Distribution Manager: Mary Price
Cover Photography: Diane Lewis
Art Director: Michele Sager
Advertising Director: Chuck Brehmer
Website Designer/Manager: Michele Sager
Contributing Writers: Karen Carlton Dr. Diane Deresienski Sean Drummond Scott Goldsmith Beth Johnston Dr. Brian Lapham Donna Lawrence Julie LeRoy
Heather Jaynes Marcellino Jennifer Novelli
On The Cover: By: Details: Cover Photography By:
Trooper Heather Jaynes Marcellino “'My Miracle Boy” Diane Lewis Photography
Heidi Schmidt Colby & Andrea Self Barbara Shumannfang, Ph.D., CPDT Patricia Tirrell, CPDT-KA Elizabeth Wilson
TheTriangleDog.com
The Triangle Dog 1008 Professor Place Durham, NC 27713 919-249-8364 (TDOG) info@thetriangledog.com
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Submissions: Please send all editorial material, advertising material, photos, and correspondence to The Triangle Dog magazine, 1008 Professor Place, Durham, NC 27713, or via email at editor@thetriangledog.com We welcome previously unpublished material and color pictures either in transparency or disc form at 300 dpi. We cannot guarantee that either the article or the photos will be used or that they will be returned. We reserve the right to publish all letters received, as well as all Facebook and Twitter posts left at The Triangle Dog sites. Advertising Sales: Send requests to Angela Brehmer at 919-249-8364 (TDOG) or abrehmer@thetriangledog.com The Triangle Dog magazine is published 4 times per year. Entire contents are copyright 2012. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means without prior written consent from the publisher. Publication date: October 2012. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, the publisher makes no warrant to the accuracy or reliability of this information. Views expressed by editorial contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher.
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CONTRIBUTORS 3.
Photo by Lindsey McDaniel
6.
Photo by Erin Arsenault
2.
4.
Photo by Adam N. Goldsmith
7.
Photo by Abbie Cooke
1.
5.
Photo by Lindsey McDaniel
1. Karen Carlton
5. Brian Lapham, DVM
In addition to her volunteer work with Triangle Beagle Rescue, Karen Carlton works full-time for a nonprofit that serves families experiencing developmental disabilities or Traumatic Brain Injuries. She lives in Raleigh with Bayleigh, 4, Haven, 5, and Bandit, 9.
Dr. Brian Lapham received his veterinary degree from the University of Florida in 1999. His true passion lies in preventative care—preventing disease before it can manifest itself as cancer, osteoarthritis, epilepsy, or the like.
2. Sean Drummond
Outside of the hospital, Dr. Lapham is often occupied spending time with his family, woodworking, completing home improvements (which never seem to end!), and running. Included in the mix are his menagerie of pets, currently including two cats, Pia and Kitten, and Elizabeth the guinea pig. Dr. Lapham’s daughter is still vying for a puppy—coming soon!
Sean Drummond is the stay-at-home parent of three human children and two canine kids. The dogs are both rescues from different organizations. In the midst of childcare and dogcare, he attempts to maintain a freelance writing career. You can read his blog about his adventures with his children in the Triangle at http://besteducateddad.blogspot.com.
3. Lisa Giannini-White, CVPM Lisa Giannini-White is a 1987 graduate of the Indianapolis School of Veterinary Management. She earned the esteemed designation of CVPM (Certified Veterinary Practice Manager) in 1994. Her special interests are teaching and empowering team members and comforting pet owners and their family pet companions. She has a special place in her heart for senior patients. She spends her free time playing soccer, creating art with found and recyclable objects, seeking spiritual guidance through meditation, chakras, and universal energy, and spending time with her 2 rescue cats Braveheart and Dirt and her very fluffy rescued Great Pyrenees Sandy Marie.
6. Donna Lawrence In late 2008, Donna’s life changed when her neighbor’s chained dog, a Pit Bull, attacked her. Less than a year later, she met Susie, a Shepherd/Pit Bull mix puppy found beaten, burned, and left to die in a Greensboro, NC park. Susie taught Donna to trust dogs again and she eventually adopted Susie. After learning Susie’s abuser only received 8 months probation for animal abuse due to NC law, Donna and supporters started to rally for new, stiffer animal cruelty laws. In December 2010, Susie’s Law went into effect. Donna has since started a nonprofit called Susie’s Hope and Susie and Donna travel together, spreading the word that one person or one dog can make a difference in this world.
4. Scott Goldsmith
7. Julie LeRoy
Scott Goldsmith is a retired attorney and certified travel agent who lives in Chapel Hill with his wife Robyn and their dogs Ragtime and Farfel. Ragtime is a six-year-old Pumi who has to herd everyone who comes within range and bark at anything that moves. Farfel is a playful two-year-old Portuguese Water Dog. A natural comedian, Farfel always wants to be the center of attention.
Julie LeRoy has been an Animal Control Officer for nearly eight years, five of those years in Durham, NC. She is currently working as Kennel Supervisor at the Ulster County SPCA in Kingston, NY. She is committed to promoting animal adoption and educating the public about shelter pets.
Scott has raised an assortment of dogs and other pets throughout his life. His interests include traveling, cooking, and writing about his experiences.
Julie has spent most of her life around animals, starting when she cleaned hamster cages in exchange for litter at her local pet store when she was 9 years old. She spends her days being a voice
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CONTRIBUTORS 9.
11. 10.
8.
12.
Photo by Diane Lewis Photography
for animals and her nights surrounded by her 5 dogs and 3 cats. Nothing beats the unconditional love of a dog and she always adopts, never shops.
8. Heather Jaynes Marcellino Heather Jaynes Marcellino has been training and showing dogs in both conformation and performance for over 25 years. She was also an analytical chemist for 19 years, and is now working on her Masters of Education to become a science teacher. She hopes to have Trooper by her side as she begins her new journey as an educator. Each animal that has come into her life has touched her soul. She feels truly blessed to have Trooper in her life. He is an inspiration to her every day. Trooper has taught her so much about how to enjoy life and about the importance of perseverance in all that she does. He has taught her how to handle her own lifethreatening illness with grace and dignity.
14. 13.
Photo by Tara Lynn, In Between The Blinks Photography
train full time. Colby and Andrea handle all types of behavioral issues and believe that no dog is too old to be trained. Sit Means Sit Raleigh services the greater Triangle Region. Call for a free demo/consultation: 919-714-9748. Visit their website at www. sitmeanssit.com.
12. Barbara Shumannfang, Ph.D, CPDT Barbara Shumannfang is a dog trainer, writer, and Canine Life and Social Skills (C.L.A.S.S.) evaluator. She wrote Happy Kids, Happy Dogs: Building a Friendship Right from the Start to help families decrease stress and cultivate friendship between dogs and children. Helping people and dogs enjoy and understand each other better is one of the most rewarding parts of her work. For free dog training and behavior tips, please visit Barbara’s Top Notch Dog Blog at www.topnotchdog.com.
9. Jennifer Novelli
13. Patricia Tirrell, CPDT-KA
Jennifer Novelli is from Statesville, NC where the hills roll and people talk slowly. Conversation is one of her most treasured activities, whether on a porch or busy street. She is an editor and copywriter for a health content creation team, and in her spare time does freelance reporting for the Raleigh Public Record and feature writing for The Triangle Dog. She lives in Raleigh, NC with her husband, dog, and two cats.
Patricia is a life-long animal lover who has been involved with animal rescue and dog training in the RTP area since 2001. Patricia is the owner of The Confident Dog (www.confident-dog.com) and is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed, Tellington TTouch Companion Animal Practitioner, and Licensed Delta Society Pet Partner Evaluator.
10. Heidi Schmidt Heidi Schmidt is the former owner of a pet retail store and is a recognized CGC trainer and evaluator. She has been a professional dog trainer for over 15 years. Heidi has been featured on television and in newspaper articles for her dog training knowledge.
11. Colby and Andrea Self Colby and Andrea Self are the owners of Sit Means Sit Dog Training in Raleigh, which is a part of the largest dog training franchise in the United States. Prior to opening the franchise, Colby worked and taught in law enforcement and Andrea served as an officer in the U.S. Army. Their passion for dog training motivated them to
Patricia lives with her three dogs. One is a retired pet partner, one is a very active pet partner, and one is in training to be a pet partner. Two of her dogs love water sports and have the titles to show it. Patricia also works with animals that are visually impaired and/or deaf.
14. Elizabeth Wilson A life-long animal lover, Elizabeth Wilson currently resides in Durham with two of the best decisions she's ever made: Reggie, a two-yearold American Bulldog/Lab mix, and Piper, a one-year-old Australian Cattle Dog. When not “bringing home the bacon” or spending time at one of the local dog parks, Elizabeth may be found bringing awareness to animal issues as the Durham Animal Advocacy Examiner on Examiner.com.
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NC Animal Laws:
by Elizabeth Wilson
Speak Up for Those Who Can’t
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he concept of animal law, while around for centuries, officially started in the United States in 1866. America was becoming more urbanized; this movement not only included people, but their animals, too. The country soon began to see the start of the pet overpopulation problem, and New York City offered a reward for the capture of stray dogs. The dogs, once caught, were crammed into massive crates and dropped into the East River. The citizens of New York witnessed this horror, and one individual in particular worked to make a change. Henry Bergh founded the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in 1866 and the organization was granted the right to enforce the country’s first-ever anticruelty law. Soon, anti-cruelty laws began trickling down from state to state. North Carolina passed its first animal cruelty laws shortly thereafter; in fact, some of the earliest cruelty laws that are still in use today date back to 1881. While North Carolina was quick to pick up on the national trend in the late 19th century, the passage of anti-cruelty laws has been dwindling as of late. In The Humane Society of the United States’ (HSUS) Humane State Ranking report from 2011, North Carolina found itself in the bottom tier. The report quantifies each state’s “humaneness” based on its animal protection laws and the severity of the corresponding penalty. North Carolina scored 23 out of a possible 66 points, earning the state a tie with Kansas for 33rd place. In fact, North Carolina has steadily dropped in place each year the ranking has been released. This drop in humaneness is not due to a lack of effort, however. For example, two notable bills that were the result of a strong community effort were never heard or never passed: Chamberlin’s Law and the puppy mill bill of 2009. Chamberlin was one of two dogs left behind after a couple parted ways. Chained to a tree in a backyard, Chamberlin and his companion were left without food, water, or shelter for at least two months. During those months, the dogs became dehydrated, emaciated, and weakened so much so that they lost the ability to walk. 10 Volume 2 • Issue 4
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Chamberlin and his friend were only discovered after someone came by to mow the overgrown grass. Out of the two dogs, Chamberlin was the lucky one: he is alive and, with the assistance of his custom-built wheelchair, he is mobile. His friend was much worse off and had to be euthanized shortly after their discovery. The couple who abandoned the two dogs are High Point residents Nellie Brock and Wilbert Morrison. Morrison took a plea deal and ended up with 30 days in jail, three years probation, a $1,000 donation to Susie’s Fund, and he agreed to never own animals again. Brock, reluctant to agree to the last stipulation, is still awaiting trial for her crimes. Their penalties may never be considered enough because their actions weren’t “intentional” or “malicious,” which the law currently penalizes. Chamberlin’s Law sought to change the wording of the animal cruelty statute to “reckless,” which would make animal cruelty easier to prove in court and lead to more convictions. The law also set standards for shelter, gave judges the ability to prohibit an offender from owning animals, and gave judges the
ability to order psychiatric or psychological evaluation or counseling. Yet, Chamberlin’s Law was never heard during the 2011 Legislative session, presumably because several senators opposed the bill. Similarly, the puppy mill bill of 2009 seemed a positive change. Currently, North Carolina has no licensing standards or regulations for commercial breeders. An estimated 200-300 commercial breeders operate in North Carolina, and over 500 dogs were confiscated from puppy mills last year alone; it would seem that any sort of regulations would be welcomed. Many people and organizations supported the bill, including the HSUS. But there were also a number of heavy, checkbook-wielding organizations that opposed the bill. These organizations included the National Rifle Association, the N.C. Pork Council, the Farm Bureau, the American Kennel Club, and North Carolina’s hunters. While the bill only regulated commercial breeders, these organizations feared the HSUS’s involvement and the HSUS’s involvement in their industries as a possible consequence of the bill. So under the threats that their monetary support and funding would be dropped, representatives voted against the puppy mill bill in 2009. While North Carolina may be slowly slipping in the Humane State Rankings, there have been a few glimpses of a silver lining. For example, Susie’s Law unanimously passed in 2010. Susie, the dog who inspired the law, was found burned, beaten, and near death when she was only a puppy. Her abuser received no jail time for animal abuse. The passage of Susie’s Law increased the penalties for felony animal cruelty offenders, allowing prison time. There has also been a move away from chaining, marked most notably in the Triangle by the organization The Coalition to Unchain Dogs. The problems with chaining or tethering are numerous. Tethered dogs have been found to be more aggressive due to the lack of socialization, stimulation, and attention. Tethered dogs also tend to be forgotten about and are fed and watered irregularly. Chains tangled around inanimate objects lead to restricted space for the dog, and chains tangled around the animal’s body may lead to amputation or selfmutilation in an effort to get free. The Coalition to Unchain Dogs works to change this treatment by combining anti-tethering ordinances with free fencing. Currently, chaining is banned in Garner, Durham, and Chapel Hill; it is restricted in Raleigh and Orange County. So while North Carolina’s animal protection laws may not be on par with our northern, East Coast neighbors, there has been and continues to be positive progress. While that progress may be intensely difficult to achieve, it is far from impossible. Change is made when people who care vote: with a ballot, with your dollar, and with your voice. Please consider contacting your representatives and letting them know animal issues are important to you. Dr. Seuss spoke volumes when he wrote in The Lorax: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” The Triangle Dog
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shelter spotlight
Paws4ever is a guaranteed-adoption animal shelter and sanctuary dedicated to improving the lives of cats and dogs through adoption, training, and education. The animal sanctuary, located on 50 beautiful acres in Orange County, NC, includes an Adoption Center with housing for 18 dogs and 30 cats, a Learning Center with three large training rooms, as well as agility and sports fields with state-of-the-art equipment, walking trails, and a meticulously landscaped membership dog park. Relying 100% on donations and revenues from its programs, Paws4ever serves the local counties and animal enthusiasts through the following services. Dog and Cat Adoption The Paws4ever Adoption Center is a placement partner for animals transferred from county shelters, including Orange, Chatham, and Caswell, where the number of adoptable pets outpaces the space to house them. Our animals, who might otherwise have been euthanized, receive the time, care, and training they need to have the best chance for success in a forever home. Our dogs are temperament tested, actively socialized, trained, and matched to the wishes of potential adopters. All animals are spayed or neutered, up-to-date on all vaccines, heartworm negative, and on heartworm and flea/tick prevention. Dog Training The Paws4ever Learning Center provides the most affordable and comprehensive array of dog training in our area. From basic manners to the most advanced skills, our knowledgeable, friendly instructors will help you achieve your dog-training goals. All training at 12 Volume 2 • Issue 4
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Paws4ever is reward-based using gentle, effective techniques of positive reinforcement to help dogs make good choices. Most of our group classes are taught in 7-week terms and we offer 4 terms per year. Dog Park The Paws4ever Dog Park is a fenced, three-acre, offleash socialization and play area for your dog. It is beautifully maintained and open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. until dusk. Dog Park memberships are available for an annual fee of $50 for one dog and $20 for each additional dog. ReSale Store The Paws4ever ReSale Store, located at 115 John Earl Street in Hillsborough, NC (next to My Secret Closet), provides a variety of unique, high-quality merchandise for you and your pet. We appreciate donations of new or gently used household items, jewelry, furniture, and pet supplies. If you like to shop for bargains, you can feel good knowing that what you spend goes directly to caring for our animals until they can find their forever homes. We welcome your donations for resale, your time as a volunteer, or your purchases of our items! For more information about Paws4ever and its mission and programs, visit www.paws4ever.org. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up-to-date with our current animals awaiting adoption and to find news from our staff and volunteers. Come talk to us at local events, festivals, and dog shows. Or visit us and the animals in person at the Adoption and Learning Centers located at 6311 Nicks Road in Mebane, NC. Call 919-304-2300 for additional information.
adoptable dogs
Seven is a 3-year-old Shepherd/Akita mix neutered male who came to Paws4ever in February 2011. “I love to leap around and play in yards, and I love spending time with my human buddies because they can scratch all the right places. Some humans tell me that I shouldn't jump on them or try to sit in their laps, but sometimes I just can't help it. I love to show my affection and sometimes it just gets the best of me. Other things I enjoy are walking with my humans, snuggling on the couch, and maybe catching a late night movie. I love stuffed squeaky toys (they are so much fun it's ridiculous). I know to use the bathroom outside and I like kitties, but they get me excited! Come and visit with me—I am dying to be your new best friend!”
Seven
3 yea
rs old
Shep he Akita rd/ Mix
Duncan is a 6-year-old hound mix neutered male who came to Paws4ever in November 2011.
Duncan 6 years old
Hound Mix
“I am a hound, and I am pleased to say I’ve passed Family Dog 1 training class! I am house-trained, and I have already spent some time in a foster home learning how to live with a family. If you have a fenced-in yard, I will be very happy and we will be a great match. I absolutely love my belly scratched and appreciate toys and treats. I am very foodmotivated and would love further training. Give me a reason to smile bigger and take me home—we will get along great, especially if you love rubbing soft ears!”
Oliver is a 3-year-old Coonhound/Beagle mix neutered male who came to Paws4ever in January 2011. “I am a 45-pound boy who is an avid explorer and who loves to play! Although I can be a little rambunctious when I first come indoors, I calm down very quickly, and I listen well to come and sit. When I need to go out, I let you know by tapping on the door. Toys that squeak or bounce are my absolute favorites. Humans tell me I have a very cute snore when I sleep. I love to play in the yard or just take a nap inside, and I will do great in most any home.”
Oliver
3 yea
r old
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My Miracle Boy: by Heather Jaynes Marcellino
Photos by Diane Lewis Photography
Llynure’s Courageous (aka: Super Duper Trooper)
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rooper is truly a miracle. He was born into my hands, and then gently placed on my heart. When he was born, he had a big white blaze, which distinguished him from his brothers and sisters. All eight pups were wonderful, but Trooper (know as Little Blaze Boy at the time) was special. I slept just outside the whelping box for the first 10 days of his life, and I cannot even remember how many of those hours I had my Little Blaze Boy laying on my heart. I don’t know why I gravitated to him, as he was not the best show prospect, nor the most outgoing, but there was something very special about him that I cannot explain in words. Trooper was meant to be in my life. Little Blaze Boy graduated to Trooper, when at two weeks of age he pinched a toe in the whelping box. He lost the entire nail bed including the quick. As I picked him up and held off the toe to stop the bleeding, I knew he was in pain, but his trusting eyes looked up at me with a sense of gratitude. From that moment on, he was my little Trooper. Little did I know at the time how meaningful his name would become. When the puppies were 7 weeks old, they began to learn all about grass, dirt, frogs, worms, and bushes. 14 Volume 2 • Issue 4
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One day, as I was watching with delight, Prize (Trooper’s littermate) and Trooper were chasing each other around a bush, until little Trooper let out a painful cry. I rushed over to comfort him, and realized his leg was not in the correct position. I rushed him to the vet, who popped his dislocated leg back into place, and Trooper immediately started playing in the exam room. But when the vet examined Trooper, she found something else. Trooper had a grade 6 heart murmur; heart murmurs have a scale of 1 to 6, with 6 being the worst, and many vets never see a 6 as the dog usually passes away before a diagnosis can be made. My vet called the NCSU vet school and got us in to see the top cardiologist first thing in the morning. At the vet school the next morning, I learned how serious Trooper’s condition really was. They did an echo; since Trooper was so young, they allowed me to be in the room, and the vet described everything he was seeing during the procedure. After the procedure, Trooper, a close friend, and I waited patiently for the results. As we were waiting, we could actually see the murmur as Trooper laid on the exam table. Trooper was diagnosed with severe pulmonic stannous, and I was terrified. The cardiologist recommended that Trooper have surgery as soon as possible, as with no treatment they did not expect him to live past 12 weeks. We went home, and I gave Trooper all of the love in my heart and as many cheeseburgers as he wanted.
Two weeks later, he went in for his first heart surgery. Trooper became the love of everyone at NCSU vet school. The cardiologist even kept him in his office instead of the hospital, as to not stress Trooper out. The first surgery was gut wrenching. Trooper died on the table 3 times and had an arrhythmia in recovery that was life threating. The vet cried as he explained what had happened. They were able to get a catheter into the pulmonic valve; however, they could not inflate the balloon to open up the valve. Trooper’s prognosis was grim. I went home with him and cherished every moment we had together. After a couple of months, I noticed a decline in his energy and a sadness came about him. I took him back to the vet school, praying for a glimmer of hope. They said they could try the surgery again; however, with the scar tissue from the first surgery and his rapid decline, they felt it was a long shot. Nevertheless, everyone who knew Trooper knew how much he cherished life and knew how he touched everyone he met. His first surgery had already wiped me out financially, but I was not going to let money decide his fate. The vet was able to get the balloon donated by the supplier after telling them Trooper’s story. He donated his time, and the American Working Collie Association also helped with a donation. Trooper was here for a reason and we all knew that, and we all did whatever it took to give him the best chance for
survival. Unfortunately, the second surgery did not go as well as we had hoped. They were able to get the balloon in partially, but not able to completely open the valve. Again, he was given a poor prognosis, and I was devastated. They said he may only live to be a year old. He was 6 months at the time of the second surgery and became a case study for NCSU; they still use his case today when teaching cardiology. Living up to his name, Trooper turned 10 years old on August 15. Trooper always had hope and knew he was here for a reason. Trooper taught me about the power of positive thinking, hope, and perseverance. As I now fight my own battle with both ovarian and breast cancer, these qualities have become even more important to me. I only hope I can handle my illness with the same grace and dignity that Trooper teaches me every day. Trooper touches everyone who comes into his life. He was a therapy dog at Duke Children’s Hospital for eight years, as well as at camp Kaleidoscope (Duke Children’s Camp) every summer. There is a quality about Trooper that I just don’t know how to put into words. He is my miracle boy who has left an imprint on my heart. And for all who know Trooper, he has left paw prints on their hearts, too.
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nutrition by Heidi Schmidt
What’s in the Bag?
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates, a.k.a. grains, have been increasingly used in pet foods over the last 15 years. Once considered to be binders and fillers, carbohydrates now replace a considerable portion of the meat protein in commercially available foods. These cheaper sources of protein have kept the cost of dog and cat foods at a “reasonable” level. However, the nutrient value of these products is dependent upon the digestibility of the grains in question. The most commonly used grain is corn. The next most common grain is rice. Other carbohydrate sources may include wheat, barley, oats, amaranth, alfalfa, sorghum, soy, pasta, peanuts, seeds, and beans. These grains are ground, milled, and otherwise processed. This processing produces ground (a course grind or chop), meal (a fine grind), and flour (fine, powdery forms of the grain). The finer the processing is, the more digestible the grain. Also, the digestive system of dogs and cats can almost completely absorb the nutrients from rice, while those same nutrients in corn and potatoes are not as readily absorbed. Some ingredients, such as peanut hulls, are nutritionally valueless. Remember, if it’s not digested— it’s eliminated! One favorite ingredient of pet food manufacturers is “corn gluten meal.” This meal is the sticky residue that remains after the germ, bran, and starch are removed. It’s used in dog food as a protein source and a binder. It’s also used as an insecticide by the agricultural industry! Another commonly used ingredient is soy, a cheap protein of questionable absorption. It has been linked to indigestion and gas in some dogs. Brewers rice is another ingredient. It is also a by-product of the milling process, and there is no known advantage to its use. It seems to 16 Volume 2 • Issue 4
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be used to replace some of the more expensive forms of rice. So, what is the carbohydrate requirement of your dog? Until 1957 and the introduction of “Purina Dog Chow,” most dogs were fed a diet of table scraps and canned food (introduced in 1937). This diet is low in carbohydrates— typically about 14%. Compare this to 50-90% carbohydrates found in today’s typical kibble. The carbohydrate content of your dog’s food won’t be found on the bag. The water (moisture), protein, fat, and fiber are listed, but not the carbohydrates. To calculate the carbohydrate content of your food, add up the percentages of the moisture (water), protein, fat, and fiber. Subtract this number from 100%. The remaining percentage is the carbohydrate content of the food. These calculations work for dry or kibbled food. Canned food, because of its nature, is mostly water. The moisture content of canned food can be upwards of 80%! So work a little bit of math in to your next feeding and discover the carbohydrate content of your dog’s dinner.
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ANIMAL HEALTH & WELLNESS by Brian Lapham DVM of, Southpoint Animal Hospital
Anesthesia – Worth the Risk? 1. Physical Examination Nothing beats a proper hands-on exam: listening to the heart for any murmurs, arrhythmias, or palpating pulses, looking at gum color, and capillary refill time, etc. This exam should be done prior to any anesthetic event. 2. Blood work Blood work will allow us to check the values associated with the kidneys and liver, electrolyte levels, blood sugar, and blood count. This work will tell us whether the body can handle the anesthetics properly and whether the body is properly hydrated. Sometimes additional testing is required if an abnormality is detected, such as a chest radiograph (X-ray) if there is a lung issue, or advanced blood work if the basic tests detect a liver problem. These tests will be done prior to the anesthetic. 3. IV catheter
Whenever I mention the word “anesthesia,” I almost always get the same pained/worried look from my pet guardians. Everyone has heard of a person or pet that has died under anesthesia—and of course some of those stories are true! I also hear stories of people dying in car accidents—right here in the Triangle, and yet I still drive. I certainly understand the trepidation of putting a loved one under anesthesia, and I hope this article may clear up some myths, misconceptions, and old information about general anesthesia. First, let’s look at some statistics to get an understanding of the likelihood of an adverse anesthetic event. A 2008 study* found that in healthy dogs and cats, the risk of anesthetic death was 0.05% and 0.11% respectively. In sick dogs and cats, the risk increased to 1.3% and 1.4%. These numbers did not take into account anesthetic methods, experience of the veterinarian, or any other risk factors. For those pets that died, and for their caretakers, these are obviously devastating statistics. But for the remaining 99.95% of dogs and 99.89% of cats, the benefits of the anesthetic procedure outweighed the very low risk. So that begs the question—how can we reduce the risk to the very lowest possibility? While there are some events which simply are impossible to predict, most adverse anesthetic events can be avoided. Why not stack the deck in our favor with a few simple steps: 18 Volume 2 • Issue 4
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The IV catheter is a very simple step, and yet one often avoided by many veterinary hospitals. The IV catheter gives the anesthetist instantaneous access to the body for administration of emergency medications if needed. It also allows the use of intravenous (IV) fluids to help maintain blood pressure during the procedure. 4. Warmth As the body undergoes general anesthesia, it loses its ability to maintain its core body temperature. This process is not only uncomfortable for the patient during recovery, but can adversely affect how its organs function and how medications are metabolized. To counteract this temperature loss, we use circulating warm water blankets (safer than electric heating pads), warm water bottles, blankets, and more blankets. 5. Board Certified Veterinary Technician A Board Certified Veterinary Technician, also known as a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT), is someone who has received 2 years of specific specialized training in veterinary nursing. This training includes hands-on experience and many hours of training specifically in anesthesiology. While the veterinarian is present during any anesthetic induction, it is the RVT who is actually doing the procedure. Many hospitals employ assistants (folks with no formal training or certification) to do such procedures, which we feel is inappropriate considering the magnitude of what is being done.
6. Monitoring Equipment
8. Experience
As important as our own eyes and ears are to monitoring our anesthetized patients, machines can help in many ways. We continuously monitor heart rate, heart electrical activity (ECG, or EKG if you are German), blood oxygen levels, blood carbon dioxide levels, body temperature, and blood pressure with several different machines. This information helps us determine how our patients are doing and how to adjust our anesthetics.
This step is one that is hard for a pet guardian to predict, and probably the most important. Don’t assume that the more years a veterinarian is in practice equals a higher level of competence, or that a younger veterinarian has not done many anesthetic procedures. Ask friends or neighbors if they have used this person before, or even ask for references! Any veterinarian who is offended by this question is probably not someone you want anesthetizing your loved one.
7. Medication
As with all things medical, I like to empower my clients to question authority and don’t stop until satisfied with the answers—or leave! Ask how often this particular procedure is done, what the success rate has been, how they do the above steps, and get specific. You need to be an informed consumer—your pet's life may depend on it!
There are many anesthetic techniques and medications available today. There is no one perfect technique or drug combination. We look at each pet as an individual and make an anesthetic plan based on what would be best for him or her, and give only the amount of anesthetic needed for the procedure. We also utilize inhalant, or gas, anesthesia which allows us to continuously, and quickly, adjust the amount needed on a moment to moment basis.
Source: *Brodbelt, D. C., Blissitt, K. J., Hammond, R. A., et al. The risk of death: The confidential enquiry into perioperative small animal fatalities. Vet Anesth Analg. September 2008; 35(5): 365-73.
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Does Coat Color Really Matter?
by Sean Drummond
I
t is well-known among members of the rescue community that predominantly black-coated dogs and cats tend to linger in shelters longer than their lighter-coated counterparts. This phenomenon is known as Black-Coated Dog Syndrome and the reasons for it are not entirely clear. Darci VanderSlik, a spokesperson for the SPCA of Wake County, has some theories to explain Black-Coated Dog Syndrome. One of her theories revolves around genetics. Genetically speaking, the black coat gene is a dominant one which means that black-coated dogs are more prevalent and may end up in shelters in greater numbers than lighter-coated dogs simply because there are more. Another theory is based on the way humans perceive visual information. When confronted with several identical objects, such as a litter of black puppies, the human eye has a harder time distinguishing between the individual objects. Thus, it is harder for one individual puppy to stand out among others. VanderSlik admits that practical considerations may also cause blackcoated dogs to linger in shelters. For
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instance, black-coated dogs may be harder to see in the corners of poorly-lit kennels. Black-coated dogs are also harder to photograph and, therefore, frequently get left out of materials highlighting pets for adoption. The SPCA of Wake County has devised strategies to combat Black-Coated Dog Syndrome. One of those strategies was the creation of the Black Dog Club, which potential members can join by adopting a predominantly black-coated dog. The club has a t-shirt that members can purchase for half-price after adopting a dark-coated dog. The SPCA staff has also produced YouTube videos featuring some of their darker-coated pets with the song “Back in Black” by AC/DC as the soundtrack to bring awareness to these animals. Occasionally, the SPCA will offer a reduced adoption fee for black-coated dogs if there is an abundance of darker-coated animals in the shelter. Overall, the SPCA tries to highlight the personalities of its dogs so that potential adopters will find a pet that matches their t e m p e r a m e n t, regardless of the animal’s coat color.
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DOGS @ PLAY by Jennifer Novelli
events, while spectators watch from the sidelines, and judges from the tent. How would I honor the first commandment in the world of disc dogs—to just have fun—with shot nerves, sweaty palms, and jerky knees? Thankfully, it turns out Spirit, the dog I was throwing to, is quite an amazing dog. He is an energetic, athletic Belgium Tervuren, making him well-suited to take care of someone like me during the Distance and Accuracy (D/A) event. Other, more extreme events like distance, pairs, and freestyle are demanding, complicated, and require advanced training. The D/A event, on the other hand, is basically an improvement on the age-old game of fetch. However, don’t be mistaken, this event still has the ability to shock and awe. Anyone can win, with any breed—purebred or mixed. Davis explained, “The disc dog world takes great pride in the number of rescues that take the field at every event. In fact, the vast majority of competitors get their dogs from rescue groups and shelters.”
“Whether you do great or less than spectacular, it doesn't matter as long as you and the dog have fun.” Not only was this comment an invitation to throw in a disc dog event—a competitive canine/owner sport, which I had only come to know a few days earlier—but the offer was to throw to someone else’s dog. And the owner, Bob Davis, a disc dog enthusiast and competitor, didn’t realize yet that when I hold a Frisbee in my hands, usually on a casual trip to the disc golf course with friends, it typically ends up in Lake Jordan, or a tree. Hundreds of disc dog competitions are held all over the world every year. Dog and owner compete in various 22 Volume 2 • Issue 4
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With a highly intense dog like Spirit, Davis said he knew his life would change drastically when he began the sport, but it was change he wanted. Training demanded earlier mornings in the summer to beat the heat and the right warm socks during the winter, even LED Frisbees in order to eek out the last bit of each day. “Once, to prove a point, I walked away from a group of friends I was with, placed my hamburger on the ground and a Frisbee next to it. I released Spirit and he grabbed the Frisbee without hesitation,” beamed Davis. “He likes it more than food.” For the pair, life truly is all about fun and Frisbees, which is a sentiment shared by many who have tried the sport. For more information on Disc Dogs and upcoming events, visit http://skyhoundz.com/index.html.
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pet friendly business by Scott Goldsmith
Calling All Nature Buffs Do you and your dog want to enjoy nature? Does he yearn to walk along a wooded path through a forest and sniff the moss and rich moist earth? You need only travel a few yards off of Hwy15-501 in Chapel Hill, NC to fulfill his yearning.
The garden has two trails. The trail’s entrance is along Old Mason Farm Road and goes around the deer fence surrounding the garden. Around the back of the main garden compound is the trailhead. At the trailhead, you’ll find a bulletin board with trail maps, a trashcan, and a bag dispenser for waste. Whichever trail you wish to take, you start on the Streamside Trail. This path is the lower trail and is about a half-hour hike. The trail is relatively level and crosses and follows the stream for which it is named. Planked bridges cross the stream; the planks are widely spaced, so be careful with small dogs. The paths are all well shaded and cleared.
The North Carolina Botanical Garden adjoins Hwy 15501 at Old Mason Farm Road and offers a couple of dog friendly trails. I recently visited the garden and met with Wendy Wenk. Wenk is the Herb Garden Curator and a dog enthusiast. She has an Airedale and is a member of North Carolina Airedale Rescue. Before telling you about the garden’s trails, there are a few things you must know. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed into the garden itself, and Wenk asked me to remind readers that dogs must be leashed on the trails. She explained that the leash requirement is part of a county law which carries with it a $150 fine. In fact, another set of trails was closed to dogs because people did not follow the leash rule. The garden staff also ask that you pick up after your dog. A bag dispenser sits at the start of the trail and a garbage can at both ends. While the garden has dog limitations, it also has a lot to offer you and your pet. You and your dog can enjoy two miles of nicely maintained shaded trails where your dog can sniff to his heart’s content and you can stroll through cool and scenic surrounds, complete with strategically placed benches, should the two of you wish to rest. Additionally, the trees and trails are marked with plaques that tell you about the flora and the streambed. 26 Volume 2 • Issue 4
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The Oak-Hickory Trail is accessible off the Streamside Trail. It is about a 45-minute hike and goes a bit uphill and down. Landscape timbers assist hikers throughout the trail. Colorful skinks scoot along the path, squirrels abound, and birds call.
Should you go with a companion who can take the dog(s), you may want to venture into the garden itself. The garden is really a collection of small gardens representing the flora of the various parts of North Carolina. Playwright Paul Green’s cabin sits on the grounds, as does a story chair. An herb garden, a children’s wonder garden, and a garden of carnivorous plants rounds out the collection. Inside the main building is a changing exhibit, an art gallery, and a garden shop where you can purchase plants. The Botanical Garden is open 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. weekdays, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Saturday, and 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Sundays. Hours are extended to 6:00 p.m. on summer weekends. The trails, however, are open dawn to dusk. As the garden gates enclose the main parking lots, park in the overflow lot if you plan on staying past 5:00 p.m. For more information, visit the garden website at www.ncbg.unc.edu or call 919962-0522.
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ask the groomer
Q:
I just moved to NC from the Midwest and I have found that some grooming shops do not require vaccinations and others do: why the difference? My last groomer never asked me for my pet’s immunizations, so now I am very confused!
Beth Johnston Beth Johnston is a life-long animal lover who, at 10 years of age, first groomed the family dog in the driveway and has been grooming animals for over 20 years, working with dogs, cats, rabbits, and horses. She has also successfully competed in canine events including conformation, rally obedience, and agility. She was a foster mom for the Central Carolina Poodle Club and helped rehabilitate and place poodles in forever homes. She is a certified member of the National Dog Groomers Association of America and is certified with the American Red Cross in Canine First Aid and CPR. Beth currently owns, and can be found grooming her canine friends at, Beth’s Barks N Bubbles, LLC in Durham.
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~ A. Stafford, Durham, NC
A:
In North Carolina, it is the law that all pets must be vaccinated against Rabies. As professionals, those of us who work in the animal industry certainly abide by that law and may even choose to require additional vaccinations that are not required by law to keep pets safe and to keep diseases under control. I would be leery of any pet establishment that does not require either documentation from you or clearance from your veterinarian's office regarding vaccinations. A pet’s Rabies tag is not proof of vaccination, as tags do not have any identification on them such as your pet’s name, your name, or vaccination due date. It is up to the pet professional to comply with the law, as well as keep your pet safe from other diseases through various methods such as requiring additional vaccinations and using proper disinfecting and sanitizing techniques and products throughout and at the end of the day. It is up to you as a pet owner to educate yourself about diseases and illnesses your pet could be exposed to in your area—not just at a grooming shop, but at a pet store, dog park, or on a daily walk. Your pet is counting on you to make informed choices to keep him or her safe from harm and minimize risk as much as possible. If you have any questions about your pet’s vaccination status or if you need help finding a groomer who adheres to the latest safety and vaccination protocols, please contact your veterinarian, as he or she is the expert on disease prevention. Good luck!
Q:
Silver licks her lips and has brown stains on her muzzle. Any suggestions how to keep her sweet little face white? ~ Tracy H., Wake Forest, NC
A:
Staining on the face can be reddish brown to burgundy in color. Saliva is the most likely cause of this type of discoloration, although there can be other causes. Does the color continue all the way down the hair shaft and to the skin? If so, it could be a fungal infection. You will need a trip to the vet for help dealing with this infection. You’ll also need to keep the area clean and dry to prevent recurrences. If you have a bearded dog, you may want to consider having your groomer trim the hair more closely around the mouth and face to help keep the area both clean and dry. Do you feed treats or foods with color added? Check your food labels; sadly, many colors are added to pet food for owner appeal. Turn your bags and boxes over and read the ingredient list carefully. It is best to avoid foods with coloring added, not just for cosmetic reasons but for safety, too. We do not know the long-term effects of food coloring when used in dog food, but human studies are not encouraging. Do you use a colored food or water bowl? What about a favorite toy? Many experts recommend using a nice ceramic or stainless steel (preferred) pet bowl to help prevent staining of the hair and face as well as preserve pigmentation. Also, as you are adding water to your pet’s bowl, consider the quality of your tap water. You may want to use bottled water or use a filtration system or canister to help remove minerals that could be in the water and could affect the hairs on the face, especially around the mouth. Change your pet’s water frequently throughout the day to remove any particles or dirt that may accumulate in the bowl. If saliva is the culprit, you may want to talk to your groomer or your veterinarian about ways to lighten or eliminate staining caused by saliva. Some groomers use a blueberry facial to help remove not only staining on the muzzle but also tear staining. They may use a specially formulated whitening shampoo during the bathing process. And some groomers report success using a mixture of Epsom salts and water or placing hydrogen peroxide on a cotton ball and rubbing the stained fur daily. Initially, you may notice the color lighten to a dull red or even a soft pink. Continued treatment will gradually lighten the stain, but it can take several weeks of daily wiping, so most people often opt to just live with the discoloration! As always, please use care when applying any product on your pet. Check with your veterinarian first to make sure that the product and technique you are about to use are safe for your pet and take care to keep the product out of your pet's mouth, nostrils, and eyes as incorrect use of any product can cause your pet discomfort, illness, or injury. Good luck! The Triangle Dog
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triangle happenings OCTOBER 7th Annual Walk for Animal Protection October 6, 2012
Music for Fences October 13, 2012
Last year, we had over 500 walkers, 60 vendor/sponsor booths, countless volunteers, and we raised a record $50,000! The Paws4ever cats and dogs are in awe at your generosity.
Music for Fences will be held (rain or shine!) at Durham Central Park in downtown Durham (534 Foster St). Doors open at 4:00 p.m. Bring lawn chairs and blankets for comfy seating! Check out Facebook for more information!
Thank you to Southern Village for hosting our walk. For sponsor and vendor information, contact Joanne Andruscavage at 919304-2300 or joanne@paws4ever.org. We hope you will join us again for fun in the sun with your dog! www.paws4ever.org The Woofstock Experience K9 Event October 7, 2012, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Hosted by Durham Parks and Recreation at Durham Central Park. http://durhamnc.gov/ich/op/prd/Pages/Woofstock.aspx; www.thewoofstockexperience.wordpress.com German Shepherd Rescue and Adoption’s Annual Reunion Picnic October 7, 2011, 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Save the Date! GSRA's biggest social event of the year! The event will be held at Montague's Lake. http://www.gsdrescue.org/info/events SPCA Fur Ball October 7, 2012, 6:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. Mark your calendars for Sunday, October 7th, 2012 for the 17th Annual SPCA of Wake County Fur Ball—the most important night of the year for homeless pets in Wake County. Fur Ball tickets are available online. The evening promises fabulous live and silent auctions, heavy hors d'oeuvres, beer and wine, live music, and the most "unstuffy" black-tie event of the season. www.spcawake.org
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www.musicforfences.org/ Skyhoundz Local Championship October 13, 2012, 11:00 a.m. Skyhoundz Local Championship, D/A Only at Wrightsville Beach Park, 321 Causeway Dr. Rain date Sunday October 14 at 1 p.m. Food for Support October 17, 2012 Enjoy a dinner out with your friends and donate to Paws4ever, too! Every third Wednesday, Andy's Burgers Shakes & Fries of Mebane, NC will make a donation equal to 30% of your meal ticket to Paws4ever! Keep it local and help Andy’s of Mebane support Paws4ever. The animals who are waiting to find their forever homes appreciate your support and the generous donations provided by Andy’s Burgers Shakes & Fries, 1336 Mebane-Oaks Road in Mebane, NC. http://paws4ever.org/media/1154983/andy_s_flyer_for_ web.pdf Spooky Splash October 27, 2012 Do you know what's even more fun than a Golden Retriever dressed up like a ladybug? How about a wet Golden Retriever dressed up like a ladybug? Are you having Rescue Reunion withdrawal? Well, you are in luck! Please join us for our Fall Fundraiser, the Spooky Splash! We’ll be combining the costumes
triangle happenings and creativity of our annual Halloween party with the wet and wild of our Rescue Reunion. One hundred percent of the proceeds support the medical care and rehabilitation of rescued Goldens. So bring your Golden and your Golden friends, and join us for some Spooky Fun!
Do you have an event you would like us to promote? Please email us at: events@thetriangledog.com
www.goldenrescuenc.org Walk-n-Wag October 27, 2012, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
DECEMBER
Sponsored by the American Cancer Society—a day of fun for the whole family. Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary, NC
Photos with Santa fundraisers Various dates throughout December
www.wakewalknwag.com
Check back at The Triangle Dog’s Facebook site for upcoming fundraising photo events.
NOVEMBER Second Chance Furry 5K Event November 3, 2012 Join Second Chance Pet Adoptions on Saturday, November 3 for the first Furry 5K to raise money for homeless pets! The event includes a 5K run, 2K dog walk, and 1K senior dog walk. The event is fun for families, individuals, and, of course, dogs! Join hundreds of people like you who care about animals and want to help save lives. http://www.secondchancenc.dojiggy.com/ Food for Support November 21, 2012 Enjoy a dinner out with your friends and donate to Paws4ever, too! Every third Wednesday, Andy's Burgers Shakes & Fries of Mebane, NC will make a donation equal to 30% of your meal ticket to Paws4ever! Keep it local and help Andy’s of Mebane support Paws4ever. The animals who are waiting to find their forever homes appreciate your support and the generous donations provided by Andy’s Burgers Shakes & Fries, 1336 Mebane-Oaks Road in Mebane, NC. http://paws4ever.org/media/1154983/andy_s_flyer_for_ web.pdf
Toys 4 Tots Agility Event December 7-9, 2012: Friday, 2:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. Enjoy food, agility, and a raffle. Spectator Admission: FREE—we are asking for donations of new, unwrapped toys. Information/Sponsorship: contact agildawg@bellsouth.net Food for Support December 19, 2012 Enjoy a dinner out with your friends and donate to Paws4ever, too! Every third Wednesday, Andy's Burgers Shakes & Fries of Mebane, NC will make a donation equal to 30% of your meal ticket to Paws4ever! Keep it local and help Andy’s of Mebane support Paws4ever. The animals who are waiting to find their forever homes appreciate your support and the generous donations provided by Andy’s Burgers Shakes & Fries, 1336 Mebane-Oaks Road in Mebane, NC. http://paws4ever.org/media/1154983/andy_s_flyer_for_ web.pdf
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TransformING Lives by Fostering
Photos by Karen Carlton
A
bout 3 years ago, I lived alone in a townhouse and was definitely NOT a dog person. Today, I have 3 furry family members living with me in that same townhouse and a number of friends I would never have met if not for them. I adopted Bayleigh, a Beagle-Terrier, Heinz-57 kind of girl, in 2009. Pregnant, she was rescued one day before she was scheduled for euthanasia. Bayleigh was probably younger than 1 when I brought her home and she was a handful! She chewed up baseboards, peed on carpet, pulled on her leash, and ate cell phone charging cords. I loved her from the minute she walked into my house and have never looked back. Since then, my home has welcomed a parade of dogs, all of whom, no matter how briefly, allowed me to be part of their journey. Two months after Bayleigh’s adoption, I became a foster for Triangle Beagle Rescue of North Carolina. First there was Sully, a sick, grouchy, skinny, middle-aged dog who once woke me at 3 a.m. for an emergency belly rub. He now lives with a university professor and has his own play room. Next was Haven, a shy, skittish, traumatized beagle. We both knew she was “home” the first time her tail wagged when she saw me. There was 58-pound Paddington, who could barely walk and had an aging, hungover frat boy’s goofiness. He lives with a young law student and now weighs 28 pounds. Next were Buffy and Cindy Lu, rescued from a research lab shut down by a PETA investigation. They 32 Volume 2 • Issue 4
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adjusted well to life outside—Buffy, a.k.a. Marley, lives with a wonderful family with twin girls and Cindy Lu makes her home with the publishers of The Triangle Dog magazine! Playful and sweet Louise came in between those two and now lives in Texas with her sister, Thelma. Bandit and Talley arrived within two days of each other. Affectionate, smiling, heartwormpositive Talley recently found her forever family. My senior boy, Bandit, lost his human mother a few months after I lost my father—we grieved and healed together and in the process, he completed my family. From my first day as a foster, my fellow TriBeagles volunteers have provided advice, support, and love. There is little in the world today that is as special as the instant community built by people who rescue dogs. I have made life-long friends, found two of my fur kids, and helped find perfect homes for thrown-away dogs. People often say they can’t foster because they couldn’t give up the dogs, but you can when you know they are going to their perfect homes. Yes, it’s bittersweet, but there is also nothing better. In many cases, organizations like TriBeagles need fosters just as much, if not more than, money. Ready to explore fostering? Visit www.tribeagles.org and click on the Foster tab. Interested in fostering but still have questions? Feel free to email me at DogHairRules@gmail.com
by Patricia Tirrell, CPDT-KA, Tellington TTouch Companion Animal Practitioner
The Magic of
natural Dog
TTouch Photo by Julie Asbed
What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of your dog? Be honest. Maybe you love the way your dog adoringly looks at you when you ask her to sit or the way she greets you when you come home—no matter how long you’ve been away. But maybe you think of something less wonderful, like she always barks at the neighbor’s dogs, or she gets car sick, or whines when you leave the house…the list can seem endless at times!
Wraps are a way of communicating between your dog’s body and her brain. Wraps work in part because when a dog is stressed she can forget to breathe normally and if she isn’t getting the necessary oxygen, she may become reactive. In addition, wraps change posture and posture changes attitude. Wraps can work their magic in just a few minutes and the effects are often long-lasting.
TTouch is mindful touching that helps bring awareness to specific areas to improve well being and relieve tension patterns. There are many aspects to TTouch. For me, the most important one is the way that it helps us to build a stronger relationship with animals through the use of body work, body wraps, and balanced movement exercises. Everything we do in TTouch is based on respect and trust—two essential ingredients in any healthy relationship.
Balanced movement exercises build confidence through non-habitual movement. There are several different ways that we introduce these exercises to your dog. We will ask her to step over, around, and through things in ways she is not used to and on surfaces that she typically doesn’t walk on—this technique is very helpful to dogs who need to release tension patterns and fear.
Body work is used to reduce anxiety and pain, and to improve circulation and general well being. There are more than 30 named TTouches! Research has shown that touch increases oxytocin levels, reduces blood pressure, and strengthens the bond between those who are doing the touching and those being touched. Body wraps are ace bandages strategically placed to apply gentle pressure at key points along the body.
I’m often asked “how long does a TTouch session last?” It depends, but for most dogs a typical TTouch session is just a moment or two. You can have many TTouch sessions throughout the day, but rarely should they last more than a few minutes. The magic of TTouch is that everyone can learn how to do it. Dogs are never too old or too young to benefit. The benefits of TTouch are many, the best of which is that you develop a stronger relationship with your dog! The Triangle Dog
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ask the vet
Q:
Dear Dr. D., My dog, Nellie, will not let me trim her nails. She is even very difficult for our veterinarian when it comes to her feet. Any suggestions? ~ John, Raleigh, NC
A:
Dear John,
Nail trimming is something that many dogs (and most dog owners) fear. There are many ways that you can make nail trimming at home less scary for both you and your dog. It is best to acclimate your dog to this procedure when they are young. If Nellie is older and has developed a strong fear of having her feet touched, then the nail trimming would be best left to your veterinarian. Your vet may recommend sedation if the fear is severe enough. Some dogs can be sedated at home with a pill and then brought into the vet for the trimming after the pill has taken effect. However, if the dog’s anxiety is great enough, it can pull itself out of sedation. In this case, the vet may sometimes have to give an intravenous sedative that can be reversed with another injection after the nail trim is finished. I have had dogs that have improved greatly if they are allowed to have the experience of a nail trim with sedation and without all the anxiety. Eventually, they become used to the procedure and may not need long-term sedation.
Dr. Diane Deresienski , VMD, DABVP A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Diane Deresienski has been with Bowman Animal Hospital since 1993. She has also been an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Clinical Sciences at NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine since 1997. In 2011, Dr. D became Medical Director of Bowman Animal Hospital. She enjoys surgery, internal medicine, and dermatology cases and is certified in PennHIP radiographic technique. She has also been featured on Animal Planet’s “Pets 101.” As an exotic animal veterinarian, she sees a variety of pets ranging from birds and reptiles, to small mammals such as rabbits, ferrets, and guinea pigs.
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If Nellie is a puppy, you can begin to train her to have her nails trimmed at home. I recommend handling your dog's paws from the moment you bring him or her home. Puppies should get used to the sensation and associate it with a positive experience (treats, toys, attention). Hold your dog's paws and play with the toes several times a day. Keep your demeanor upbeat. Praise her and reward her with treats when she tolerates the handling. For nail trimming, you will need a quality trimmer. They come in several types: guillotine, pliers, and scissors style. The right choice depends upon which style you feel more comfortable handling and how large your dog’s nails are. I generally use a pliers style trimmer for
most dog nails, except for very small nails. For small nails, I use a cat nail trimmer. You should also have some styptic powder or applicators ready in case you do cut the quick of the nail. If this injury occurs, simply apply the styptic and some pressure and the bleeding will stop. The styptic can be a little irritating, so be prepared to praise your dog and give a treat while you are applying the powder. To trim an adult dog’s nails, place your dog on her side in a comfortable area. Have your trimmers, styptic, paper towels (in case you cut a quick), and treats ready. Throughout the process, praise your dog and give a treat. You may want to give a treat after each foot is completed or after each nail, depending on how anxious she is. Sometimes it’s best to do one or two feet and wait a day or two for the rest. If your dog’s nails are white, then you can see the quick (the blood vessel that feeds the nail) as a pink area inside the nail. I recommend to cut at least 3 mm in front of the end of the pink area to avoid cutting the quick. If your dog’s nails are black, you will not be able to see the quick. Begin trimming very small slices of the nail and look at the cut edge of the nail. As you cut the nail deeper, you will see a gray to pink oval starting to appear at the top of the cut surface of the nail. Stop cutting the nail at this point as additional cutting will cut into the quick. There are also motorized dremmel-like trimmers that are now available for nail trimming. Many dogs will accept this type of trimmer, but some dogs are frightened by the noise and vibration. The only way to know how your dog will react is to try these trimmers. Use the same principles discussed above to avoid injuring the quick. For puppies, begin trimming a tiny amount of the nails every week or two. Take care not to cut too short, or your dog will have a negative experience. Frequent, positive nail trims will teach your dog or puppy that there is nothing to fear. These experiences will make nail trims much easier down the road for both you and Nellie. The Triangle Dog
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safety 101 by Colby and Andrea Self, owners, Sit Means Sit Dog Training
Why Puppies Bite Babies put everything in their mouths in order to learn and explore their environment. The same goes for a puppy. A puppy explores using its mouth and nose in order to understand its boundaries, limitations, and what’s acceptable in its pack. The pack (both K9 and human) is important in teaching a puppy socialization skills and boundaries. Typically, puppy biting does not last forever, but if a dog does not learn how to control itself, it can lead to unintentional injuries.
Tips to Stop Puppy Biting
The Importance of Socialization
• Always reward good behavior with lots of praise.
It is important that a puppy stay with its pack for as long as possible in order for it to learn acceptable and unacceptable behaviors. When a group of puppies play, there is a lot of biting and nipping; when it gets too rough, the puppy that got bit usually yelps and withdraws. This reaction lets the biter know that he bit too hard and that his behavior is not acceptable.
Play biting is a normal process that all puppies go through. It is important that owners help their dog understand what is and is not acceptable behavior. Properly training a puppy can help avoid dangerous and harmful behaviors in the future. Remember, not all dogs that show fear and/or aggression were abused as a puppy. Many times, it is simply because the dog has not been given the proper structure needed to socialize in a calm manner. Owners with excessively fearful and aggressive dogs should consult with a professional dog trainer.
It is very important that, after being taken from its litter, a puppy is socialized by joining a puppy class or group training class. The puppy will learn how to react and interact with other dogs in a controlled environment. Lack of socialization can lead to issues, including fearful and aggressive behavior. If the dog has never been taught self-control and lacks socialization, the combination can be dangerous.
• Start training early and set boundaries for the puppy. • Be consistent; don’t send mixed messages to your puppy by allowing him to bite sometimes and reprimanding him other times. Give puppies toys to chew on when they are in a biting mood. • Do not pull away from a bite; quick moving limbs can be interpreted as a game. • Do not slap or hit the puppy. Instead, hold your hand in front of him and say a firm “off” when he tries to bite. • Avoid yelling at the puppy. Dogs respond to body language much faster than speech.
The Importance of Setting Boundaries Leadership must be established in order for the puppy to understand boundaries and limitations. Just because a child is curious does not mean that he or she can go wherever he or she wants. Children must be given boundaries and limitations in order to teach them and to keep them safe; the same applies to a puppy. Dogs are dependent on their owners to teach them their rules and boundaries. 36 Volume 2 • Issue 4
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Photos by Colby and Andrea Self
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The t-Dog 'round town
Walk for the Animals – Durham, NC The Animal Protection Society (APS) of Durham set out with a lofty goal of raising $80,000 to support their mission to save homeless pets. On June 2, hundreds gathered on Duke's campus to walk for the animals. Vendors filled the field of green grass with tents and treats while dogs were anxious to support the cause. Dedicated walkers and volunteers helped raise more than $74,000 for the APS on a beautiful Saturday morning.
Dogs Days of June – Cary, NC The Town of Cary kicked off the summer with a festival for man's best friend. Dogs lined up for a scrub down in the kiddie pool, tested out some tasty treats, and relaxed in the shade at Bond Park on June 2. One of the main events was the American Kennel Club's agility course where dogs could test out their skills for the first time. Later, some agility pros put on a demonstration to inspire the newcomers.
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The t-Dog 'round town Photos by Tara Lynn In Between The Blinks Photography
Yappy Hour – Raleigh, NC World of Beer in North Hills, NC decided to turn happy hour to yappy hour on Wednesday nights. The indoor/outdoor bar kicked off its first dog-friendly yappy hour in June. The pups were greeted with treats from Woof Gang Bakery and peanut butter frozen yogurt from Yogen Früz.
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canine careers by Julie LeRoy
Keeping It All Under Control Many images come to mind when you hear “Animal Control Officer.” Mean men with butterfly nets chasing poor Fido down the street is one. Our image is often misunderstood for good reason. There are many titles for us: “Dog Warden,” “Animal Control Officer,” “Humane Law Officer,” or “Animal Cruelty Investigator,” to name a few. Our services are also structured differently in many states. Animal Control Services can fall under local
government, as a team of uniformed officers investigating everything from strays to cruelty. In some states, the town is responsible for finding a Dog Control Officer for town ordinance violations such as licensing and barking, but turns to local SPCA Peace Officers to handle the cruelty investigations. However, regardless of our name or jurisdiction, our goal is the same: we are there to protect animals from people and people from animals. We are the voice of those who cannot speak. I have played teacher, preacher, hostage negotiator, and mediation counselor. It is the most rewarding job I’ve ever had, yet it is also the most heartbreaking. People have often said to me they couldn’t 42 Volume 2 • Issue 4
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do my job because they would just “shoot people.” That’s not really feasible! Our goal is to work toward the best solution for the animal, and sometimes you have to work with the bad people to reach that goal. What does it take to be an Animal Control Officer? Some municipalities require training by the National Animal Control Association. Some require you become a Peace Officer. You must have excellent communication and writing skills and the ability to investigate. The burden of proof is on you as the dog or cat cannot point to a person in court and say, “that man/ woman beat me.” With lax animal cruelty laws, getting the punishment to fit the crime isn’t always possible, but getting a judge to determine the person guilty is. The perception that I’m knocking on your door to take your dog is wrong. The last thing an Animal Control Officer wants is your dog. There are plenty of those available at the shelter already. My first goal is education. Sometimes a person just needs direction about proper companion animal ownership. I am not there to judge the person—yet—if they are willing to comply and become responsible. If they aren’t, then watch out. Animal Control Officers never seem to get chased by dogs. Ok, that may not be entirely true, but I wish I had a dollar for every “aggressive dog chasing people” call I’ve responded to where the only one who wasn’t getting chased was me! The truth is, we can’t catch them all and it’s tough when you have an audience wondering why. That’s usually the point where I ask them if they would like to give it a try while I sit on their porch and watch. That generally allows me to get back to the task at hand and get a laugh, too. One thing is certain: laughing is mandatory for an Animal Control Officer.
training
Fostering for a Successful Future There is more to fostering a dog than agreeing to feed, walk, and love a homeless pooch. Successful fostering means providing a smooth transition from the dog’s current circumstances into a new, permanent home. The more seamlessly a new family can blend the dog into their daily life from the start, the better the chances of the relationship working out long term. Here’s how to set your foster dog up for success: Establish a routine. Most dogs thrive on having some predictable patterns, like distinct feeding times (rather than an always-filled bowl), daily exercise (like brisk walks or fetch), alone time, and rules (like sitting before being petted). These routines may be utterly foreign to your foster dog, yet implementing them will put him or her more at ease in your household. They will also help your foster dog bond with his or her new family, should they continue the routines. If you have other dogs, consider a “crate, gate, and rotate” routine so they all get plenty of attention. This routine can be less stressful for the dogs than trying to make their lives completely mesh. It can also better prepare your foster for integration in a permanent household. Let the dog blossom at his or her own pace. New things like stairs or vacuum cleaners may take some time to accept. A good rule of thumb is to treat your foster as you would wish to be treated if you were that nervous—with patience, confidence, and rewards for trying. With puppies, do not merely expose them to new things, but rather create especially positive encounters (with praise, games, or
by Barbara Shumannfang Ph.D, CPDT
treats) so the puppy forms happy associations with new people and places. Bashful dogs benefit most from interactive tricks like bopping human hands with their nose, or confidence-building tricks like sitting pretty. At adoption events, give bashful dogs a chance to show off their new skills rather than allowing strangers to overwhelm them. For bold dogs, consider training that emphasizes responsiveness and self-control, like comewhen-called games and automatic leave it training. Teach practical skills using respectful, rewardbased methods. While everyone deserves to learn this way, it is especially important to build trust and confidence in your foster dog. Observe what the dog likes (Tug? Treats? Running?), then provide those favorite things as training rewards. Knowing these individual preferences in your foster dog also helps match him or her with the ideal family. Skills that help dogs find and keep homes include: • Sit as a default action. This action burns mental energy, prevents a host of unwanted behaviors like jumping up and counter surfing, and builds calm confidence. • Trade up. Teach your foster dog to give up possessions by surprising (not bribing) him with a treat for relinquishing an object. • Accept occasional confinement. Feed meals in a crate or gated area, use a soothing dog appeasing pheromone (D.A.P.) collar, and provide an unlaundered shirt with your scent. While you cannot change your foster dog's past, you can set him or her up for the best possible future. For more training ideas, how-to-videos, and support, visit www. t o p n o t c h d o g. com.
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tails from the heart Photos by Erin Arsenault
by Donna Lawrence
Susie’s Story:
My
name is Susie. I am a Shepherd/Pit Bull mix. On August 20, 2009, I was found burned, severely beaten, and close to death in Greenfield Park in Greensboro, NC. For two weeks, I suffered alone with second and third-degree burns over 60% of my body. My jaw was broken, my teeth were knocked out, my ears were burned to nubs, and scars ran all the way from the top of my head down my back to my stomach and bottom. I was only eight weeks old when I was hurt so badly; I was so little and very afraid. My owner set me on fire by pouring lighter fluid on me and striking a match, all
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because I licked his baby’s face. Licking was what I did to everyone I met, to show my love and affection. Somehow I managed to survive for two weeks without any food or water. When a passerby in the park finally spotted me, my open wounds were covered with more than 300 maggots, which had to be removed, one by one, from my tortured skin. The maggots probably saved my life because they ate away most of the infection. Although I suffered a horrific experience, my story has a happy ending, thanks to the caring staff at the Guilford County Animal Shelter.
A Tale of Strength, Action, & Change For a couple of months, I had to endure daily treatments for my burns. Other people were also heavily involved in my recovery. A very sweet couple took me in and fostered me. Every day they made sure that I received my medical treatment from the shelter. Eventually, I regained all of my strength and became, once again, a normal, playful puppy. But what I needed most was a forever home. I met Donna Lawrence through my foster family and grew attached to her right away. She took care of me in my foster home while my foster parents were on vacation. After that, she kept me at her home on the weekends, so I became accustomed to hanging out with her. We grew very fond of each other and developed a special bond. A year before my brutal attack, Donna survived a nearly fatal Pit Bull attack. Understandably, she was afraid of dogs, but I eventually won her heart. We shared something important in common: she had been wrongfully attacked by a dog and I had been wrongfully attacked by a human. Three months after I was found, the perpetrator of my abuse was caught and arrested. However, North Carolina’s structured-sentencing guidelines only allowed the guilty party, 21-year-old LaShawn Whitehead, to serve 4-5 months of a suspended sentence (probation) for a Class I felony of Cruelty to Animals. Whitehead also received 8 months in jail for burning personal property, a charge that only applied because I belonged to Whitehead’s girlfriend, not to him. If Whitehead’s girlfriend had shown up in court and claimed that she did not care about her “personal property,” he would have received no punishment for burning me. Luckily, she was not present in court. Essentially, Whitehead could have burned someone’s couch and could have received the same penalty as the one he received for burning and torturing me.
Shocked by the outcome of the hearing, concerned citizens began asking what they could do to make the animal cruelty law tougher. My mom and foster parents went on a county-by-county crusade to get support for North Carolina House Bill 1690 and Senate Bill 254. A letter to our legislators was drafted, and countless letters and emails from constituents began pouring into our state representatives’ offices. Several representatives responded immediately, including Representatives Pricey Harrison and Maggie Jeffus, along with Senator Don Vaughan. In fact, Senator Vaughan wanted a new law, Susie’s Law, that would mean tougher sentencing for those convicted of animal abuse. Concerned constituents in North Carolina wanted Cruelty to Animals to be reclassified as a Class H felony, instead of a Class I felony. With this new classification, Whitehead could have received an active prison sentence. My mom, my foster parents, and several of my new friends called themselves Susie’s Team and rallied North Carolina citizens to send letters to their state representatives asking for a new, stricter animal cruelty law that included jail time for those who abused or neglected animals. The proposed bill, which reclassified felony Cruelty to Animals from a Class I felony to a Class H felony and elevated the A1 misdemeanor of intentionally starving an animal to death to a Class H felony as well, would require an active prison sentence. These proposed changes garnered widespread support from animal lovers, including more than 30,000 fans of Susie’s Law’s Facebook page. Several state politicians joined our fight, and a resolution to take Susie’s Law to our state capitol in Raleigh to introduce the bill was presented to the Greensboro City Council, as well as to the Guilford County Commissioners. On June 16, 2010, North Carolina legislators determined that anyone who tortures, starves, or kills an animal could face jail time. Susie’s Law passed in the House, and the Senate voted 47-0 to give final approval to raising the penalties for those found guilty of the worst cases of animal abuse. On June 24, 2010, Governor Bev Perdue signed Susie’s Law. My paw print is on the copy signed by the governor. Since the new law has been passed, my mom and I have been very busy. We go all over North Carolina visiting schools, churches, special-needs communities, pet adoption fairs, and The Triangle Dog
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tails from the heart fundraisers. We teach people about preventing animal abuse, the importance of pet care, and animal safety. We want to continue to bring awareness to animal cruelty. My mom explained her motivation: “Every morning I wake up and look into the face of a dog that was beaten and burned beyond belief. I can’t imagine someone being so cruel to a helpless animal that only wants to give unconditional love and respect.” Almost every day we hear about animals being abandoned, abused, and neglected. Formerly these animals had no voice; now they have been given a voice through Susie’s Law. Additionally, there is a significant body of research that shows that a person who abuses or neglects animals will do the same to children. When people who torture or abuse animals go unpunished, this opens the door for future criminal activity. There is also a strong correlation between animal abuse and domestic violence. In very real
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ways, we could end up protecting the lives of people, too. We always need to remember that animals depend on us. An animal is part of your family. An animal should never be neglected or harmed. Any person who abandons, abuses, neglects, or intentionally starves an animal should never own another pet again. I have recuperated very well, and I spend most of my time alongside my mom in her hair salon, surrounded by people who love and appreciate me. I am preparing to take on a new role as a therapy dog and have been in training for the past year. I hope to work with burn victims and to help teach them that anyone can go from being a victim to living a victorious life. Most of all, my mom and I will continue to inspire people to make the most out of life through love, hope, and forgiveness. Remember, one person or one animal can make a difference in this world.
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