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Publisher Jennifer Kitchens-Street (281) 384.5431
jennifer@urbanpawsmagazine.com
Advertising (281) 384.5431
sales@urbanpawsmagazine.com
Contributing Writers Bob Williams Drs. Foster and Smith Randolph Summitt
Staff Photographer Jamie Fincher www.pawprintsbyjamie.com Urban Paws Magazine PO Box 1556 Spring, TX 77383
www.urbanpawsmagazine.com Web: www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
contents Issue 11: Volume 7
EVENT CALENDAR 6 December 2013
THE SCOOP 7
Canine News and Happenings
BODY & SOUL 10
Tips for Selecting the Right Dog Walker
SPECIAL FEATURE 15 Holiday Gift Guide
HEALTH & WELLNESS 20 Rheumatoid Arthritis in Dogs
TRAINING & BEHAVIOR 22
Keep the Holiday Season Fun and Safe for Your Dog
ADOPTION 24 Š Copyright 2013. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Urban Paws magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, feature and idea submissions, or photographs, and such material will not be returned. Urban Paws magazine assumes no liability for the contents herein and has the right to refuse advertising for any reason. Urban Paws magazine does not endorse any specific product or service contained herein; we do encourage you to support our advertisers whenever possible.
Please tell our advertisers that you heard about them in Urban Paws Magazine!
Animal Safety League of Northeast Harris County
Photo by Paw Prints by Jamie Pet Photography.
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COMING IN JANUARY:
2nd Annual Veterinary Profiles
COMING IN MARCH: Coping with Pet Loss
Contact us for special advertising opportunities at 281.384.5431.
event calendar
DECEMBER
For a full list of events, visit: www.urbanpawsmagazine.com/events DECEMBER 7
Pet lovers can embark on a day of animal camaraderie during Gleannloch Farms “Paws and Claus� Festival Saturday, December 7th from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The event is being held at the Gleannloch Farms Recreation Center and Park, 9420 Gleannloch Forest Drive in Spring. The family and pet event will include demonstrations by Houston Canine Frisbee Disc Club and Dock Dogs of Houston, which will wow the crowd with jumpand-catch antics. Rescue groups for both dogs and cats, micro-chipping, pet adoptions, vendors of all kinds, concessions, raffle items and photos with Santa in his sleigh will be offered. For more information, visit www.glfpets.com.
DECEMBER 7
Collars, Kongs and Cash pet adoption event benefitting Rescue Pets Movement. 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at the Corkscrew, 1308 W. 20th Street. RPM is collecting collars (any size), Kong toys and donations for their transport program. For more information, visit www.rescuedpetsmovement.org.
DECEMBER 8
The Lone Star Animal Welfare League Muttcracker Market at the Oriental Rug Gallery in The Woodlands. For more information, visit www.lsawl.org.
Plaza, 201 S. Elm. AAR will benefit from the Pet Parade, Costume Contest and Raffle. For more information, visit www.tomballgermanfest.org.
DECEMBER 14
2nd Annual Bake & Craft Sale at Montgomery County Animal Shelter. 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Visit the shelter for some baked goods and homemade gifts for the holidays. Festive Fido fotos with Santa and Elf will also be available for $10. For more information, visit www.mcaspets.org.
DECEMBER 23
Houston SPCA Critter Camp Winter 2013. Kids will spend hands-on time with the shelter cats, dogs, horses and farm animals. They will also learn fun and new facts about the animals, participate in animal-themed winter crafts, activities and games. Registration for Campers ages 8-12 only. To view additional dates or to register, visit www.hspca.org.
SAVE THE DATE: January 4-5, 2014
The 61st Annual Charity Cat Show at the George R. Brown Convention Center.
DECEMBER 13-15
Shop, eat and support Abandoned Animal Rescue at the 2013 Tomball German Christmas Market. Old Town Tomball, near the historical Train Depot
Follow us on FACEBOOK & TWITTER for the most up-to-date information, news and events! 6 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
the scoop
Texas Litter Control Partners with Montgomery County Spay Neuter Project to Offer Free Spay and Neuter Services for Cats
Texas Litter Control and the Montgomery County Spay Neuter Project (MCSNP) are partnering to provide free spay and neuter services for cats. On December 8, 2013, the “Fix a Feline for Free” Day will take place at the Texas Litter Control clinic. 50 cats will be altered for people who are on public assistance. Cat owners who are on disability, Social Security, unemployment, or food stamps will be eligible to participate. These free services are under written by the Montgomery County Spay Neuter Project. Pet owners who qualify simply need to call the Texas Litter Control clinic to book an appointment for December 8th. Cats must weigh at least 3 pounds. Tame cats need to be in a carrier and feral (wild) cats need to come in traps. Intake will be between 7:00am and 8:00am. Pick up times will be assigned as cats are dropped off. There is a limit of 2 cats per household and proof of public assistance must be provided at check in. Citizens who cannot participate or do not own a cat can still help by volunteering at the clinic as well as at off site events for both Texas Litter Control or MCSNP. For more information on these organizations and what you can do, visit www.texaslittercontrol.org or www.mcsnp.org . The Montgomery County Spay Neuter Project is a local not for profit organization that fundraisers and provides affordable spay neuter services to residents of Montgomery and surrounding counties.
Local Organization on a Mission to Aid BARC in Reducing Euthanasia Numbers
It’s hard to imagine that an estimated 1.2 to 1.4 million homeless dogs and cats roam the
streets of Houston. The numbers are staggering and one organization is making a dent in those numbers.
Formed on September 23, 2013, Rescue Pets
Movement had no idea how well their program would succeed. The group had initially planned to help Houston’s Bureau of Animal
Regulation and Care (BARC) transport 50 pets
every other week. That number would decrease BARC’s euthanasia record by 10%. The plan was to slowly grow the program in hopes of one day making Houston a no-kill city.
Through years of rescue work and a large
database of contacts around the nation, RPM was able to locate reputable, no-kill organizations that are actually in need of adoptable
pets. Highly adoptable pets from BARC are
placed in temporary foster homes until they can be transported to those areas.
The overwhelming response has been amaz-
ing and RPM has been able to increase the
number of transports to one or more each
week. Within two months, a total of 399 dogs
and cats have been saved. At this rate, it is estimated that RPM will be able to make up to a 50% dent in the euthanasia rate at BARC. Learn more about RPM at
www.rescuedpetsmovement.org.
Urban Paws Magazine 7
Infographic courtesy of Trupanion
body & soul Tips for Selecting the Right Dog Walker
ny animal needs a dose of exercise if he
with dogs. You need to consider if your dog
of your own but do not have the time to spare,
one-on-one visit. If there are other animals,
A
is to remain healthy. If you have a pet
then it will be up to you to find someone who can help with dog walking. There are many peo-
ple to choose from so you will need to assess your prospects based on several parameters.
would be comfortable in a group or do best with keep in mind that the walker will have to divide their attention. Consider too that your pet may
possibly catch an illness if one of the other pets is sick.
Check to see what they usually do when they
A dog walker should be someone who is atten-
that physically and mentally challenge your pet.
pared to discuss your pets likes, dislikes and any
take a pet out. These activities should be things With all of the hours that your pet spends with-
in the confines of your home, he will need this
stimulation. Make sure that their services are
appropriate for the needs of your companion animal.
Determine if they will be walking your pet along 10 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
tive to pet’s needs. When you meet them, be pre-
other special needs. This will prepare them for the task of handling your pet. Ask how they intend to keep in touch with you should there be
a problem. Make sure that you can be easily contacted as well.
Ask if they been trained for medical emergen-
By: Randolph Summitt
cies in the event that your pet is injured or
or your pet could get injured in an accident. It is
person who is there would be the one who has
avoid headaches down the road.
becomes sick. If something happens, then the to respond. If your walker does not even know
best if this professional is already insured to
first aid, then your pet could be put in danger.
Dog walking provides your pet with the exercise
evant courses.
er, there are people who can be hired for the
Ask for proof that they have recently taken rel-
Always ask for the dog walker to provide you with a number of references. Make time to call
these references so you can talk to individuals
it needs. If you require the need for a dog walktask. Interview your prospects carefully so that you can find a reliable person to take care of your pet.
who have used their services. Ask them if they
are satisfied or if they have had issues. Ask them why they think they are a good or a bad dog
walker. This will give you an idea of whether or not they should be hired.
Set up an appointment with your top prospects. This is a chance for you to interact with the candidate and ask them questions about their prac-
tices. Overall, the impression you should get is of an individual who can be trusted to look out
for your pet’s best interests. Take this opportunity to let your pet meet them as well.
Looking for a dog walker? www.petsitusa.com www.care.com
www.dogwalker.com
Insurance is something that you should not forget to check. This is someone who will be going
in and out of your house and taking your pet
outside of your home. At any point in time, they
Urban Paws Magazine 11
mutt mugs
“Whoever said that diamonds are a girls best friend, never had a dog.� Unknown
12 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
2013
holiday GIFT GUIDE
Urban Paws Magazine 15
holiday gift guide
Vintage Christmas Collar
This limited edition holiday Air Collar is super lightweight, breathable and quick drying, making it the perfect accessory for active dogs. Available at www.spiffydog.com.
Rescue Me Now chihuahua Glass Ornament
Celebrate the holidays with a unique dog ornament. Available at www.wag.com.
Frosty Fair Isle Sweater
Shake off winter´s chill and step into the warmth with Nordic patterns and heavenly soft alpaca blend knits. Available online at www.alqowasi.com.
16 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
Crinkle Cane Deer
West Paw put a crinkly, twist on a holiday favorite. www.westpawdesign.com.
Kissable Breath
These two new ‘Brushless’ Dental Solutions to make dental care easy for the owner and painless for the pooch. Available online at www.kissabledog.com.
Naturally Shed Antlers
The best all-natural chew going. Give your pooch a high quality naturally shed moose or elk antler from www.gotantler.com.
Urban Paws Magazine 17
holiday gift guide Eco Hemp Dog Toy Collection
Ella, Scot and Dino are handcrafted in the USA with 55% hemp and 45% recycled polyester. They are snuggly soft, sustainable and irresistibly cute. Available at www.westpawdesign.com.
Hemp Striped Dog Bed
Eco-friendly, heavy-duty bed covers are a soft blend of hemp and cotton, grown entirely without the use of pesticides. Available at www.harrybarker.com.
Reflective Lead
Made of durable double-braided rope, the Fozzy Dog lead boasts an integrated waste bag dispenser and small pocket for your phone, keys, and cards. Available online at www.fozzydoginc.com.
18 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
Areaware Terrier Pillow
A plush pillow doll with silk-screened animal graphic adds a perfect touch of holiday cheer to any room. Available at www.wag.com.
Text Art Breed Specific Shirt
Dog City & Co. offers personalized tees that feature your dog’s silhouette made up of the words that best characterize him. Available online at www.dogcityandco.com.
The Gift That Keeps on Giving
Bring joy to your favorite dog with a one month, three month, or one-year BarkBox plan! www.barkbox.com.
Urban Paws Magazine 19
health & wellness Rheumatoid Arthritis (Immune-mediated Disease) in Dogs
R
heumatoid arthritis occurs most commonly in toy or small breeds of dogs,
generally between 5 and 6 years of age.
What are the signs of rheumatoid arthritis?
A dog with rheumatoid arthritis generally has several joints affected. The animal is usually
lame, but not always. The lameness may be mild
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
or very severe to the point where the animal
disease. This means it is caused by an overreac-
from leg to leg. In some cases, the lameness
Rheumatoid arthritis is an immune-mediated tion of the immune system. A normal immune system reacts when the body identifies a foreign
protein such as proteins on the outside of bacteria. This foreign material which invokes the
cannot walk. Sometimes, the lameness shifts comes on suddenly and the dog also has a fever and loss of appetite. At other times, the only sign of rheumatoid arthritis is stiffness.
immune response is called an antigen. The body
The joints affected are swollen and painful. If
molecules (antibodies) which bind the antigen.
may be loss of muscle in that limb.
can react to the antigen by producing protein The combination of the antibody bound or
attached to the antigen is called an immune complex.
In rheumatoid arthritis, the body mistakes some
of its own protein for foreign protein. It then makes antibodies against its own protein. These
the lameness has gone on for some time, there Some dogs will have other body systems affect-
ed as well as the joints. Some dogs with rheumatoid arthritis also have kidney disease, enlarged lymph nodes, tonsillitis, and pneumonia.
unique antibodies are collectively called
'rheumatoid factor.' The antibodies and protein
How is rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed?
form immune complexes, which are then
deposited in the joint. These complexes trigger
erinarian to suspect rheumatoid arthritis.
Radiographs (x-rays) are taken and typically
a process called inflammation, which is how the
body reacts to injury. In the case of rheumatoid
arthritis, the body tries to rid itself of the injuri-
ous immune complexes, but manages to only create more damage to the joint. The process
The history and physical exam often lead a vetshow the loss of bone - the bone often appears like holes have been punched in it. The joint
surfaces are often irregular and bony spurs coming off of the bone are often seen.
then becomes self-perpetuating. Eventually, the
A special blood test can be done to look for the
away.
factor is sometimes present in dogs without
cartilage and even the bone in the joint are worn 20 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
rheumatoid factor. Unfortunately, rheumatoid
By: Drs. Foster & Smith Educational Staff
rheumatoid arthritis, and not all dogs with
Strict rest, especially early in the course of the
(A reminder that the practice of medicine is not
treatment a gentle exercise program can be
rheumatoid arthritis test positive for the factor. an exact science.)
The synovial fluid may be analyzed and shows
disease is important. If the dog responds to started. It is important to exercise every day for the same amount of time.
characteristic changes. Cells involved in inflam-
Weight control is also a very important part of
usually of a thinner consistency than normal
excess stress on their already injured joints.
mation are present in large numbers, the fluid is and instead of being clear, the fluid is cloudy.
Biopsies of the tissues within the joint can be made and show characteristic changes.
The veterinarian uses the information from the history, physical exam, and tests to come to a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.
the treatment plan. Overweight pets will put Weight gain is likely since the pet will often be less active, so careful attention to diet is important.
Some researchers have suggested that fatty acid supplements may help reduce some of the inflammation.
What is the prognosis for pets with rheumatoid How is rheumatoid arthritis treated?
As with humans, many treatments have been
arthritis?
tried in the dog, with varying degrees of success. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as buffered
cured. The long-term outlook for dogs with rheumatoid arthritis is one of trying to control
aspirin are often used. Sometimes steroids such as prednisolone are used, often on an alternate day basis. Medications that suppress the
immune system such as azathioprine and
cyclophosphamide are used in some cases. Gold injections have been used in dogs with some
success. Careful monitoring of pet on immuno-
At this point, rheumatoid arthritis cannot be
the signs and prevent further injury to the joint. Š 2013 Foster & Smith, Inc. Reprinted as a courtesy and with permission from PetEducation.com (http://www.PetEducation.com) On-line store at http://www.DrsFosterSmith.com Free pet supply catalog: 1-800-323-4208
suppressive drugs is important. They will be more prone to developing infections, and some of these drugs have toxic side effects.
Urban Paws Magazine 21
training & behavior Keep the Holiday Season Fun and Safe for Your Dog
W
hile the holiday season brings good
poinsettias and amaryllis (a type of lily). Also be
bring a unique set of circumstances
• Snow globes can contain antifreeze, which is
times and cheer for many, they also
for companion animals .Here are special issues for you to consider in keeping your pets safe and happy year-round.
sure that all potpourri is out of your pet’s reach. toxic to dogs. Whether in the garage or in a
snow globe, keep antifreeze products away from your happy, tail-wagging dog. If there is an
antifreeze spill, keep your dog out of the room
Holiday Foods Can be Harmful
while you clean up the liquid. Dilute the spot
causing symptoms as mild as an upset stomach
dog does not lick the area later.
Many holiday foods can be harmful to canines,
or as severe as vomiting and diarrhea. Avoid giving your dog fatty or spicy foods, bread dough,
fresh herbs, alcoholic beverages, caffeine and sweets of any kind–especially those that contain chocolate or xylitol, a natural sweetener.
• Particularly dangerous are cooked poultry bones. Cooked bones can easily splinter, and the
with water and floor cleaner to ensure that your • Keep electrical wires and batteries out of your
pet’s reach. Chewing or biting anything electrical can cause him shock or burns.
• Don’t leave lit candles unattended. A lit candle knocked over by a swinging tail can burn your pet or cause a fire.
bone shards can cause choking, get stuck in your
dog’s gums or possibly damage his intestines.
Christmas Trees Can be Hazardous
Instead, treat your dog to “dog bones” that are specifically designed for him to chew. Ask your
it from tipping over.
• Hang non-breakable ornaments near the bot-
veterinarian for suggestions.
• Discourage your dog from foraging in the garbage. Secure lids on all trash cans.
• It’s natural that you’d want to share holiday treats with your dog. While a little taste of
turkey or sweet potatoes can make your dog happy, don’t overdo it. Too much of a good thing can make him sick.
Anchor the tree to the ceiling or wall to prevent tom of the tree.
• Avoid putting tinsel on your tree. If ingested, tinsel can twist in your dog’s intestines and be deadly.
• Don’t let your dog drink the Christmas tree
water. The water may contain preservative
chemicals, which can trigger severe indigestion in dogs. Stagnant plain water can breed bacteria and cause nausea or diarrhea to the pet that
Decorations Are Not Playthings
imbibes.
of which are poisonous, such as holly, mistletoe,
can puncture holes in a dog’s intestines if ingested.
Keep your pet away from holiday plants, many 22 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
• Regularly sweep up fallen pine needles, as they
By: Bob Williams, Bark Busters Home Dog Training
Help Your Dog Feel Safe and Relaxed
with treats and keep him well entertained.
to help your dog be calmer, exercise him prior to the festivities. After 30 minutes of walking or
Please Don’t Give a Pet As a Surprise Gift
playtime, your dog will more likely be relaxed or want to nap.
choice, but many of these holiday presents end up at animal shelters. Owning a dog takes the
Most dogs get very excited when guests arrive.
• As a general rule, don’t allow the family dog to
greet unfamiliar guests since unusual activities and commotion can cause him extra stress.
• Give your dog a break from the hubbub by putting him in his crate or in a quiet room with
his dog bed. Allow him to rejoin the festivities after guests have arrived.
• Pets stressed by unfamiliar events typically pant more, so keep your dog’s water bowl filled with fresh water.
A cute puppy may seem like the perfect gift genuine commitment of time and responsibility, and adoptive owners must be ready to participate in training and other activities. If someone
your know seriously wants a dog, consider giv-
ing a leash and collar, or a dog training certificate, along with a note stating that a dog of the
recipient’s choice comes with it. This helps to ensure that the lucky person gets just the right pet to bring into the family.
Pets Like Presents Too!
Help your dog stay busy and out of the holiday trimmings by giving him fun, safe gifts.
• The Buster® Cube and KONG® are virtually indestructible puzzle toys that reward your dog
Urban Paws Magazine 23
adoption Animal Safety League of Northeast Harris County crosbypuppymassacre.wordpress.com
The Animal Safety League of Northeast Harris County was established to help fight animal abandonment and animal cruelty in the Crosby, TX and surrounding areas. We also provide online resources for low-cost spay/neuter, vaccinations, how to re-home a dog, fostering, animal laws, etc. Please visit our website crosbypuppymassacre.wordpress.com or like us on our Facebook page Facebook.com/crosbypuppymassacre
Tristen is a two-year-old, neutered
retriever mix who loves just about
every person and dog that he meets.
He enjoys going for walks and playing
fetch, but he can also be mellow and right by your side. Tristen had a rough start in his journey. After being res-
cued from a well known dump site in Crosby, he was taken to a dog sanctu-
ary in the hill county in hopes of find-
ing his forever home there. It turns
out the sanctuary was not as good as
his rescuers thought, but thankfully Tristen was pulled from there to set-
tle into his new foster home. He is
now safe and waiting patiently for his forever home. He promises to give you all of his love, if you give him the
chance. We would like to thank Jamie
Our cover dog, Tristen!
& Jason with Paws Pet Resort in
Houston for helping him get back on his feet and also providing a wonderful place to take his photos.
Photo by Paw Prints by Jamie Pet Photography.
24 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
Join us in helping our four-legged friends find loving homes. Adopt a dog today!
Uno Joe is a four-year-old, neutered Cane Corso/Pit mix. He was dumped under a bridge in Crosby where he was in such bad shape, we weren’t sure if he was going to survive. His body was covered in sores and missing most of his hair due to mange and infection. Uno has been through a lot of medical care and his skin has fully healed and most of the hair has grown back. He is wonderful on a leash and perfect in a crate. He knows how to sit and lay down and he will come when you call him. Uno will do best in an active home where he feels like he has a daily job to keep him busy. Don't let his tough exterior distract you from the wonderfully sweet and playful kid inside.
Uno Joe
Jax Betty is a two-year-old Viszla/Staffie mix and is a true survivor. When her rescuer found her she has two different ropes tied around her neck so tight that they became embedded into her skin. She was nearly starved to death and had a look in her eyes begging for someone to save her. She is a very sweet girl who loves her people deeply and will do anything for you. She wants nothing more than to make you happy and she goes about doing it with such contagious joy that it makes you stop and smile. She loves to play and is a pretty goofy girl, jumping and circling as if she's putting on a show for you.
Jax is an eight-month-old, white Lab/Australian Shepherd with very beautiful and unique markings. Jax was abandoned in the Harris County Animal Control parking lot and was hiding in the woods across the street from the pound. He was a little nervous when a volunteer went to rescue him, but he hadn't eaten for days and couldn't resist the juicy chicken from his rescuers hand. Jax is a happy boy, loves a good toy and loves everyone he meets. His brush with a life in the pound opened his eyes and he now lives every second of his life to the fullest. Jax will get along in just about any environment, and with any type of family.
Betty Urban Paws Magazine 25
CUTE PET CONTEST Would you like
your adorable pet to be seen by thousands? Enter our next contest. Share your cutest dog photo with us for a chance to win!
Send a high-quality photo of your cute pet to info@urbanpawsmagazine.com or mail it to Urban Paws Magazine, Attn: Cute Pet Photo Contest, P.O. Box 1556, Spring, TX 77388. Please include your name and your pet’s name, breed, and age, along with a one-line description of the submitted photograph. *Photos become the property of Urban Paws Magazine, which reserves the right, without further consideration, to use all photos in any publication, media, and related promotions. We cannot confirm receipt or return entries. By submitting your photos, you agree that the photos and your name can be posted in Urban Paws Magazine and on Urban Paws Magazine’s website.