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Publisher Jennifer Kitchens-Street (281) 384.5431
jennifer@urbanpawsmagazine.com
Advertising (281) 384.5431
sales@urbanpawsmagazine.com
Contributing Writers David Grimm Jennifer Brown, DVM Bob Williams 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 5: Volume 8
EVENT CALENDAR 6 June 2014
THE SCOOP 7
Canine News and Happenings
BEHAVIOR 10
In Dogs’ Play, Researchers See Honesty and Deceit, Perhaps Something Like Morality
TRAINING 18
Barking: the Facts
HEALTH & WELLNESS 20 Ouch! You Bit Me!
ADOPTION 24
Gulf Coast Cocker Spaniel Rescue
© Copyright 2014. 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!
Photo by Paw Prints by Jamie Pet Photography.
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COMING IN JULY:
7th Anniversary Issue
COMING IN AUGUST: Nutrition Issue
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event calendar
JUNE
For a full list of events, visit: www.urbanpawsmagazine.com/events JUNE 1-30
Adopt a Shelter Cat Month.
JUNE 1
Fix a Feline for Free Day at Texas Litter Control clinic. 55 cats will be altered for people who are on public assistance. These free services are underwritten by the Homeless Pet Placement League’s Philanthropy Fund. Pet owners who qualify simply need to book online via the website www.texaslittercontrol.org or call the clinic at (832) 510-7622 to book an appointment.
JUNE 5
S.A.V.E. Rescue Coalition’s FUNdraiser at Capone’s Bar & Oven, 4304 Westheimer Road. 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.Capone’s will be donating $1.00 per drink and there will be a silent auction. For more information, visit www.saverescue.org.
JUNE 7
All Border Collie Rescue’s Dancing for Dogs. Join ABC for dinner, dancing, and a spectacular ballroom exhibition featuring world-class professionals, including Top 24 International Latin competitors Katia Kuznetsova and Cristiano Callegari. Houston’s own Shern-Min Chow, news anchor and reporter for KHOU TV will be the evening’s emcee! Crystal Ballroom at the Rice Lofts, 909 Texas Ave. 6:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Visit www.allbordercollierescue.tix.com for individual event tickets ($55).
County Animal Society. The large green space will provide plenty of room to showcase vendors, dogs for adoption, educational booths, activities for children, musical entertainment, and food vendors. Rob Flemming Park in the village of Creekside Park in The Woodlands. 11:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.mcaspets.org.
JUNE 20
On this day, thousands of pet lovers will work with their dogs to celebrate the 16th annual Take Your Dog To Work Day®. For more information, visit www.takeyourdog.com.
JUNE 30
Lone Star Animal Welfare League’s Mutts & Putts Open. Spend the day playing golf, networking and enjoying a great lunch and fabulous dinner, benefiting LSAWL’s Fixing Montgomery County Lab Rescue Program. The Woodlands Country Club, Palmer Course, 100 Grand Fairway. Check-in time is 10:30 a.m. with a 12:00 p.m. shotgun start. To register, email mgoss@sequoiagolf.com.
SAVE THE DATE: JUNE 30
Mah Jongg Tournament benefiting Abandoned Animal Rescue. Cisco’s Restaurant, 209 Commerce St. in Tomball. For more information, contact bonnieknowlton@comcast.net.
JUNE 7
Tails & Trails event benefiting Montgomery
Follow us on FACEBOOK & TWITTER for the most up-to-date information, news and events! 6 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
the scoop
Dog Lovers Delight Returns to Houston for 37th Year
Breeds, created for people who are considering
adding a new furry friend to the family. More
than 110 different breeds are presented with experts on hand to answer any and all questions. Nearby, the McScotty Market features some fo
the newest canine products from around the country along with booths from several local and national canine welfare organizations.
The Mari Jon Filla Student Art Exhibit puts
The Houston World Series of Dog Shows (for-
merly Reliant Park World Series of Dog Shows), is back to celebrate its 37th year at NRG Park
(formerly Reliant Park), July 16-20, 2014. Voted
“Show of the Year in 2013” by Purina® Pro Plan® and Dogs in Review Magazine, this fur-
tastic event offers canine-loving families the chance to enjoy an array of dog-centered events
the artistic talent of Houston’s youngsters, grades K through 12, on display. Presented by Citizens for Animal Protection (CAP), a non-
profit organization dedicated to providing shel-
ter and services to Houston’s dogs in need, the competition offers spectators the chance to bid
on beautiful dog houses with proceeds benefiting CAP.
The Houston World Series of Dog Shows,
and learn more about responsible pet owner-
sanctioned by the American Kennel Club, super-
Beginning Wednesday, visitors can catch the
Purina® Pro Plan®, is Houston’s must-see dog
ship.
Houston Working Dog and All-Terrier shows. Thursday offers an all-specialty group of shows, as well as the Working Dog and All-Terrier shows. Friday through Sunday, each show cul-
minates with a “Best of Show” winner, chosen from finalists among the seven variety groups with more than 150 different breeds represent-
ed. Besides Conformation (breed judging), spec-
vised by Onofrio Dog Shows and sponsored by event attracting more than 40,000 spectators,
participants and vendors. Adult admission is $15 per day at the door. Tickets for senior citizens
are $10, and children 12 or younger are admitted
free with adult. Parking is $10, cash only. Visit www.houstondogshows.com for the latest information.
Frisbee® dogs soar through the air, flyball
Montgomery County Animal Society In Search of Board Members
dancing dogs and more.
(MCASociety), the official non-profit organiza-
tators watch agility dogs race through obstacles,
teams hurdle to beat the clock, outstanding
One of the highlights of the show is Meet the
Montgomery
County
Animal
Society
tion in support of Montgomery County Animal Urban Paws Magazine 7
the scoop
Shelter (MCAS) in Conroe, TX, is looking for
board members specializing in fundraising and business outreach. The board is looking to fill
two spots. Board participation is voluntary and
the events, but allows local organizations to ben-
efit from funds raised. For many small, grass-
roots animal welfare organizations, proceeds
from Strut Your Mutt provide an important part
members are not compensated. All applications
of the groups’ annual operating funds.
rent board membership.
a community dog walk and festival that allows
are confidential and will be reviewed by the cur-
The application process consists of a ques-
tionnaire (including an essay). Applicants who pass the questionnaire phase will submit to one or more one-on-one interviews with board members.
Applications are due Tuesday, July 1, 2014,
but applicants are encouraged to apply now.
The link to apply is: www.mcaspets.org/board-
application.html.
Best Friends Animal Society Announces ‘Strut your Mutt’ Events in Communities Nationwide
The “Strut Your Mutt” concept is built around
people to raise funds in advance, and then cele-
brate together with fellow animal lovers and
multiple rescue groups/shelters. The event
includes doggie themed activities like doggie
yoga and massage, paw readings, food, contests
and much more.
Funds raised through Strut Your Mutt are uti-
lized locally to fund adoption programs,
spay/neuter services and other life-saving pro-
grams, which dramatically impact the number
of pets entering and leaving the shelters. In
2013 Strut Your Mutt took place in 11 cities
across the country, including a virtual Strut
Across America (now called the Strut Your Mutt
Challenge). More than 13,000 people turned out
to strut with 9,200 dogs. The event raised near-
ly $1.7 million, with around $1.2 million of that
Best Friends’ Strut Your Mutt event returns to
supporting No More Homeless Pets Network
partners. The national goal for 2014 is $2 mil-
Houston for the second year on Saturday,
lion.
friendly doggie festival will be held again at TC
participated in by more than 560 people and 500
September 20, 2014. The walk and family Jester Park, 4201 W. TC Jester Blvd, Houston, TX 77018.
What makes this event special in the world of
non-profit organizations is that Best Friends
Animal Society provides the infrastructure for 8 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
In Houston, the 2013 Strut Your Mutt was
dogs. The event raised a total of $77113, with
$48,149 raised for 11 Best Friends® No More
Homeless Pets® Network partners — local res-
cue groups and shelters in the Houston area.
For more information, visit www.strutyour-
the scoop
mutt.org.
Mills mall to make a contribution or mail a
Rover Oaks Pet Resort Launches Operation: War Dogs
War Dogs Association. Rover Oaks will be giv-
check to Rover Oaks made out to United States
ing away a free night of lodging at their facilities to every donor who contributes $100.
Donations of $25 will receive a commemora-
tive army dog tag necklace or USWDA bandana.
In addition, Rover Oaks will decorate their facilities with patriotic paw prints presenting the
names of the clients and community members who contribute to USWDA.
Every dollar
counts and anyone interested in donating is Rover Oaks Pet Resort has officially launched
its fourth annual month-long donation drive, Operation: War Dogs, to support non-profit organization
United
Association (USWDA).
States
War
Dogs
The drive officially
began on Memorial Day and ends on Independence Day, July 4, 2014.
Last year,
Rover Oaks raised over $15,000 for USWDA through Operation: War Dogs.
USWDA exists to provide much-needed sup-
port to the Military Working Dogs serving in the
United States Armed Forces. They facilitate
adoptions of retiring War Dogs; support return-
encouraged to stop by either Rover Oaks location to make a contribution in their name or in
honor of a soldier or war dog they wish to rec-
ognize. These donations will provide an abundance of critically needed items including K9
medications, food, grooming tools, bedding and other necessities. The donations also cover trav-
el costs and facilitate adoptions to bring our war dogs home.
Donations will be accepted at either Rover
Oaks location. Rover Oaks Houston, 713-6622119, is located at 2550 West Bellfort, Houston
77054.
Rover Oaks Katy, 281-693-7687, is
located at 24250 Kingsland Blvd., Katy 77494.
ing troops and service dog organizations such as
To learn more about Rover Oaks or for direc-
Search and Rescue units; establish War Dog
mation on United States War Dogs Association,
Military Working Dogs, Police K-9 units and Memorials, and educate the public on the history of all U. S. Military War Dogs from all wars.
tions, visit www.roveroaks.com. For more inforvisit: www.uswardogs.org.
During Operation: War Dogs, donors can stop
by Rover Oaks Pet Resort in Houston near
Reliant Stadium or Rover Oaks Katy near Katy Urban Paws Magazine 9
behavior In Dogs’ Play, Researchers See Honesty and Deceit, Perhaps Something Like Morality
By: David Grimm, Author
A shaggy brown terrier approaches a large chocolate Labrador in a city park. When the ter-
rier gets close, he adopts a yoga like pose,
a cognitive ethologist named Marc Bekoff began to crack it.
crouching on his forepaws and hiking his butt
A wiry 68-year-old with reddish-gray hair tied
soon the two dogs are somersaulting and tug-
emeritus at the University of Colorado at
into the air. The Lab gives an excited bark, and ging on each other’s ears. Then the terrier takes
off and the Lab gives chase, his tail wagging wildly. When the two meet once more, the whole thing begins again.
Watch a couple of dogs play, and you’ll probably
see seemingly random gestures, lots of frenetic activity and a whole lot of energy being expend-
back in a long ponytail, Bekoff is a professor Boulder, where he taught for 32 years. He began
studying animal behavior in the early 1970s,
spending four years videotaping groups of dogs,
wolves and coyotes in large enclosures and slowly playing back the tapes, jotting down every nip,
yip and lick. “Twenty minutes of film could take a week to analyze,” he says.
ed. But decades of research suggest that
The data revealed insights into how the animals
den language of honesty and deceit, empathy
grooming each other, for example. But what
beneath this apparently frivolous fun lies a hidand perhaps even a humanlike morality.
Take those two dogs. That yoga like pose is known as a “play bow,” and in the language of
play it’s one of the most commonly used words.
maintained their tight social bonds — by changed Bekoff ’s life was watching them play.
The wolves would chase each other, run, jump and roll over for seemingly no other reason than to have fun.
It’s an instigation and a clarification, a warning
Few people had studied animal play, but Bekoff
an invitation to play right before they lunge at
energy, and it can be dangerous,” he says. “You
and an apology. Dogs often adopt this stance as
another dog; they also bow before they nip
(“I’m going to bite you, but I’m just fooling
around”) or after some particularly aggressive
roughhousing (“Sorry I knocked you over; I didn’t mean it.”).
All of this suggests that dogs have a kind of
moral code — one long hidden to humans until
was intrigued. “Play is a major expenditure of
can twist a shoulder or break a leg, and it can
increase your chances of being preyed upon. So why do they do it? It has to feel good.”
Suddenly, Bekoff wasn’t interested just in
behavior; he was interested also in emotions
and, fundamentally, what was going on inside these animals’ heads.
Urban Paws Magazine 11
Darwin’s dogs
the big dog often rolled on her back to give the
intrigued by the canine mind. Charles Darwin in
other dog to jump on her far more often than
Bekoff wasn’t the first scientist to become
the mid-1800s had postulated that canines were capable of abstract thought, morality and even
smaller dog an advantage, and she allowed the she jumped on him.
language. (Darwin was inspired by his own
Bekoff also spotted a number of other blink-
Dogs, he wrote, understand human words and
den shift in the eyes — a squint that can mean
mutts; he owned 13 of them during his life.) respond with barks of eagerness, joy and despair. If that wasn’t communication between the species, what was?
Two of Darwin’s contemporaries had suggested
that dogs could even sniff out someone’s social
and-you’d-miss-them behaviors, such as a sud-
“you’re playing too rough” — and a particular wag of the tail that says, “I’m open to be approached.” Humping a playmate during a romp, meanwhile, was often an invitation to nearby dogs to come join the fun.
status and read words. But by the time Bekoff
Such signals are important during play; without
long deemed them unworthy of study. Because
vicious fight.
turned his attention to canines, scientists had
they no longer lived in their natural environ-
them, a giddy tussle can quickly turn into a
ment, the thinking went, their minds were cor-
In the wild, coyotes ostracize pack members that
question, the evolution of human intelligence.
pens in dog parks: If three dogs are playing and
rupted and could not shed light on the bigger
The only animals worth studying were wild ones.
But when Bekoff began looking at videos of
dogs romping in super slow motion, he began to realize that there was more going on in the
canine mind than science had acknowledged. He noticed the “play bow,” for example.
What’s more, he found that canines “rolereverse” or “self-handicap” during play. When a
big dog played with a smaller one, for example, 12 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
don’t play by the rules. Something similar hapone bites or tackles too hard, the other two are
likely to give him the cold shoulder and stop
playing with him, Bekoff says. Such behavior, he says, suggests that dogs are capable of morality, a mind-set once thought to be uniquely human.
Even morality hints at something deeper, however. To enforce moral conduct, dogs must be able to experience a spectrum of emotions,
from joy to indignation, guilt to jealousy. They must also be able to read these emotions in oth-
ers, distinguishing accident from intent, honesty
from deceit. And indeed, recent studies by other
rarely documented trait in the animal kingdom.
(confirming what many dog owners already feel
When a group of canines in one study learned
scientists have shown evidence of these abilities about their pets).
Scientists have found, for example, that dogs trained to shake hands with humans will stop shaking if they notice that they aren’t being
rewarded for the trick although a nearby dog is
— a sign, the researchers suggested, that dogs can sense inequity.
Dogs have even been shown to be pessimistic: that a bowl placed on one side of the room contained a treat and a bowl on the other side con-
tained nothing, some of the dogs just sat there
when the empty bowl was placed in the center of the room; they figured it was empty and did-
n’t waste their time. These same dogs evinced what researchers said was a similar pessimistic attitude when their masters left for work: They
Other studies have revealed that dogs yawn
were more likely to howl and tear up the couch
nuzzle and lick people who are crying; scientists
they didn’t believe their master would return.
when they see humans yawning and that they
consider both behaviors displays of empathy, a
when their owner disappeared, possibly because
Bekoff ’s recent work suggests another remarkUrban Paws Magazine 13
able canine skill: the ability to know what another animal is thinking — a so-called “theory of mind.”
Dogs seem to display a rudimentary form of
this skill during play. He has noticed, for example, that one dog won’t begin trying to play with another dog until he has her attention. To get her to notice, he may nip the other dog or run
into her field of view. That, Bekoff says, shows that the one wanting to play knows that she’s
heads and helps us understand how they became the species they are today.”
Hare, one of the first scientists to show that
dogs could understand human pointing while chimpanzees could not, says that Bekoff ’s studies add a new dimension to the canine personal-
ity: Dogs aren’t just smart, they’re also emotionally complex. “That’s why we can have such a deep relationship with them,” says Hare.
not paying attention to him. Though this may
It’s also why studying dog play is so important,
to our species. Without it, we can have a hard
emotional lives of the animals involved. It could
seem like a simple skill, it’s incredibly important time learning or interacting with the world around us.
Interestingly, dogs even outsmart chimpanzees
on some theory-of-mind tests. When a
Bekoff says. It reveals far more than just the
ultimately shed light on the evolution of human emotions and how we came to build a civilization based on laws and cooperation, empathy and altruism.
researcher points at one of two cups, for exam-
Play may seem a frivolous activity, but because it
pointed to, a sign that they have intuited what
best opportunity to explore who the animal real-
researcher was trying to show the dog some-
study play in dogs,” Bekoff says, “we study our-
ple, dogs almost always run to the cup that is the scientist was thinking — i.e., that the thing. Chimps, by contrast, have no idea what we mean when we point at something.
“Dogs have an amazing relationship with us, and Marc [Bekoff] has done a beautiful job helping us understand them,” says Brian Hare, a biological anthropologist at Duke University and
one of the world’s foremost experts on canine
cognition. “Play gives us a peek inside their 14 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
is not simply a survival reflex, it provides the
ly is, to peer perhaps into her soul. “When we selves.”
David Grimm is a deputy news editor at Science and the author of the new book “Citizen Canine: Our Evolving Relationship With Cats and Dogs” which is available at http://www.amazon.com/Citizen-Canine-EvolvingRelationship-Cats/dp/1610391330.
7 Tips For a Successful
Take Your Dog to Work Day
P
et Sitters International’s 16th annual Take
and secure toxic items such as permanent mark-
20. Businesses around the globe will
placed out of paw’s reach.
Your Dog To Work Day® is Friday, June
open their doors to employees’ canine co-workers to celebrate the great companions dogs make and to promote pet adoption.
To ensure a peaceful, productive day of human and canine camaraderie, Pet Sitters International
(PSI) has made a free 2014 Take Your Dog To Work Day Action Pack available at takeyourdog.com.
PSI also provides pet owners these seven tips to ensure a successful office visit:
1. Do an office check. No one will mind your dog being in the office, right? Well, maybe. Check with management and co-workers to see
if anyone is allergic, afraid of or opposed to you
ers. Any office items in question should be 3. Make sure Fido is fit for work. Even dogs don’t get a second chance to make a first impres-
sion. Be sure your dog’s shots are current. Make plans to have your dog bathed and groomed before accompanying you to work. Be mindful
of your dog’s “work readiness.” You know your dog’s demeanor, so if he is aggressive or overly shy, it’s best to leave him at home. Consider how
your dog has behaved in the past around strangers before making the decision to bring him. If your dog has shown fear, irritability or
aggression, or if your dog has never met
strangers, the workplace is not the best place for him.
4. Prepare a doggie bag. Include food, treats,
bringing your dog to work on this special day. Be
bowls, toys, leash, paper towels, clean-up bags
alternate celebration, if necessary.
and out of your work space, consider bringing a
respectful of those you work with and plan an 2. Puppy-proof your work space. If you plan on
working with your dog, make sure your office environment is safe. Remove poisonous plants and pesticides, hide electrical cords and wires 16 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
and pet-safe disinfectant. If you are routinely in baby gate for your doorway or a portable kennel
for your dog’s comfort and your peace of mind. 5. Plan your pet’s feeding times carefully. During an important sales call is probably not
the best time for a puppy potty break. Plan your
For more information about planning a success-
and be sure to choose an appropriate area for
action pack or enter the 2014 Take Your Dog To
dog’s feeding time around your work schedule your dog to relieve himself afterward.
6. Avoid forcing co-workers to interact with
ful TYDTWDay event, to download a free Work Day Photo Contest, visit www.takeyourdog.com.
your dog. Dog lovers will make themselves known. Sally from accounting and Joe in human resources may not want to play fetch or offer belly rubs, so be mindful of fellow employees’ time and space. To avoid pet accidents, monitor the amount of treats your pet is being given from your co-
workers. Remember that chocolate, candy
and other people food should not be shared
with dogs and that not all non-dog owners
will be aware that these items can be very toxic to your pooch.
7. Have an exit strategy. Although most dogs enjoy TYDTWDay, your pet may not. Should your dog become overly boisterous, agitated or withdrawn, consider taking him home or plan in advance for your professional pet sitter to offer a midday check-in visit. Never, under any circumstance, leave
your pet alone in a vehicle while you work.
Urban Paws Magazine 17
training Barking: the Facts
W
hile many people consider barking to
starts again, you are not getting through to him
ing is a behavioral problem and is
stress. Some other important facts to know
be a normal behavior, excessive bark-
often a sign that your dog is stressed–not to mention that it can cause great stress for you in
or getting to the root of what is causing him about your dog’s or puppy’s barking:
public places with your dog, or if you live in a
• Dogs that bark at birds, dogs, people, falling
dog bark too.
sance barkers and are less likely to be taken
community where your neighbors can hear your
Dogs bark in a variety of situations: • When their owners arrive home • When their owners leave home • When visitors come to the house • When they hear other dogs barking • When playing • To demand attention from their owner • When they want to go outside • When they want to be fed
leaves or clouds aren’t watchdogs. They are nuinotice of when a real threat is present.
• A quite, intelligent watchdog is the dog intruders need to be wary of, as he is aware of anything out of the ordinary that could be per-
ceived as a threat to your family pack–and will have your immediate attention.
• Barking at passersby that pose no threat to you IS considered nuisance barking.
• It’s never too late to teach your dog to stop barking.
• As they reach maturity, most dogs will natural-
• When scared or startled
ly protect their owners when needed and where
• When getting their owners to play fetch
stopped is a potential nuisance barker in the
• When fighting • at passersby or animals outside ...or for no obvious reason at all! If you have been telling your dog to stop bark-
ing, yet he continues or stops but immediately
18 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
necessary, but a puppy that barks without being making.
• A puppy that barks at his owner when being corrected vocally needs training as soon as pos-
sible. He is challenging his owner’s authority, and this could be the making of a dog that becomes more difficult to control as he matures.
By: Bob Williams, Bark Busters Home Dog Training
Having your dog assessed by a professional to ascertain why he is barking should be the first
step you take toward permanently changing his behavior and turning him into a more relaxed,
happy family member that will be more capable of sounding the alarm appropriately when a real emergency arises.
Bob Williams is a Master Dog Trainer and Behavioral Therapist for Bark Busters Home Dog Training. To schedule an appointment, call 713.771.2275
Urban Paws Magazine 19
health & wellness
Ouch! You Bit Me!
By: Jennifer Brown, DVM, North Houston Veterinary Specialists
T
he story normally goes... you went to
behaviors are. It is like learning a new language,
years later, “Fluffy” is in the hospital
vation. Some dogs naturally want you to be the
the shelter, found a cute puppy and two
due to bad behavior (dog fights, human bites or a foreign body). We are then left looking back, wondering "Where did it all go wrong?"
I truly believe that the first moment a new
puppy walks in the house is when training should begin. Now, at the beginning, there is some leniency for mistakes. But, as with chil-
dren, the rules need to become more rigid as they get older. Think of a new puppy as a one year old child. There are some basic guidelines
that need to be established, such as learning to
it takes some time, patience and careful obser-
leader and can be easily trained. It is not that they are necessarily smarter, but they are more
willing to follow commands. There are some breeds that are very “hard headed” and are most often the ones with behavioral problems. They
are usually the hardest to train but are the brightest. These are typically the terriers, dachs-
hunds and bully breeds. With these particular breeds, it is essential you are the alpha to prevent
severe injury or even death in a family household or public environment.
walk on a leash, no chewing on hands and allow-
The earlier you start training, the more fun you
pies are a couple of months old, they are like a
municate as a pack and it is essential for you to
ing an owner to play with his paws. When pupyoung child. This is where sit, stay, come, wait, and lay down need to be introduced. They should all have basic commands learned by one year of age - teenage years!
A dog's social structure is different from humans because it is based on a pack mentality.
This type of mentality has a leader (alpha dog)
that controls the pack. Because dogs live in the
will have with your dog. Remember, they comlearn to speak their language (body language). It
is best to read training books and see what works for you. Just like children, they don’t come with instructions and not every way works. Sometimes you have to tweak training
methods to fit your dog. Life becomes so much more enjoyable once you have a well-trained dog.
house and not in a true pack, you are part of
their pack and you must be able to communicate effectively from the beginning to help prevent
bad behavior. This establishes YOU as the alpha
dog. Subtle behavior can prove one as dominant and therefore, it is important to learn what these
Urban Paws Magazine 21
mutt mugs
“Dogs feel very strongly that they should always go with you in the car, in case the need should arise for them to bark violently at nothing right in your ear.� 22 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
- Dave Berry
adoption Gulf Coast Cocker Spaniel Rescue www.gulfcoastcockerspanielrescue.com
Founded in June 2010, Gulf Coast Cocker Spaniel Rescue (GCCSR) has saved the lives of 230 cocker spaniels and cocker mixes. These dogs come from Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana shelters, as well as individuals who can no longer care for their family pet(s). Unlike other rescues, GCCSR only boards its dogs for medical necessity or board & train arrangements. Cockers sometimes have quirky personalities, and we believe it is in their best interests to keep them in foster care so we can learn what kind of family will be the best fit for them going forward. We are never in a hurry to find a home for our dogs, but instead focus on quality placements in hopes these matches will truly be their FOREVER homes.
Our cover dog, Cody!
Estimated at 14-15 years of age,
Cody is a great spokesman for GCCSR, and the first one in line for
belly rubs at our monthly adoption events. He is the epitome of all we stand for–the ones others
deem ‘too old, too sick, or too challenging’. Our sweet Cody wins the hearts of everyone he meets.
Photos 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!
My name is Rosie, and I’m about two years old. I was the victim of an animal cruelty investigation in Lake Charles, and I spent the first one and a half years of my life in a crate. Because of that, I don’t do well in crates. I love my people, but I can’t be exposed to too many new people or too much new stimuli in a short period of time. If you have a quiet, routine home you’d like to share with a beautiful, snuggly girl, I’m the one for you!
Rosie
Trinity I’m Trinity, a tiny little firecracker of a cocker mix. I’m 2-3 years old, and I only have three legs, but that doesn’t slow me down one bit. I had a broken femur in my third leg when GCCSR rescued me from the shelter, but I had surgery and I’ve completely healed since then. I love everybody and most other dogs, but I’d do best in a home without small children who may accidentally hurt me.
Hi, I’m Precious and I’m about six years old. My owners surrendered me to a shelter in New Orleans because they couldn’t afford to take care of me anymore. I have the typical cocker allergies, so will need to be on a high-quality diet. Otherwise, I’m described as gentle, cooperative, and fully housebroken. I’m a well-mannered girl who longs for someone to take care of me. I’ll be your best friend if you’ll give me a chance.
Precious Urban Paws Magazine 25
vet directory 2014 Veterinarians Clara Scott, DVM My Family Vet 20120 Kuykendahl Road Spring, Texas 77379 (p): 281.288.0500 (w): www.myfamilyvet.com Sunset Blvd Animal Clinic 2525 Sunset Blvd. Houston, Texas 77005 (p): 713.526.5881 (w): www.sunsetblvdanimalclinic.com
Veterinary Specialists Laurie Noaker, DVM, DACVIM VERGI 8921 Katy Freeway Houston, Texas 77024 (p): 713.932.9589 (w): www.vergi247.com Nicholas J. Millichamp, BVetMed, PhD, DVOphthal, DipECVO, MRCVS Eye Care for Animals 17395 Tomball Parkway #3-H Houston, Texas 77064 (p): 281.890.3937 (w): www.eyecareforanimals.com Christie Cornelius, DVM Last Wishes In-Home Pet Hospice and Euthanasia 1302 Waugh Drive, Suite 968 Houston, Texas 77019 (p:) 713.452.0474 (w): www.petslastwishes.com North Houston Vet Specialists 1646 Spring Cypress Road #100 Spring, Texas 77388 (p): 832.616.5000 (w): www.nhvetspecialists.com
If you are interested in having your veterinary practice featured in our Vet Directory, please contact us at 281.384.5431 or email sales@urbanpawsmagazine.com.
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