3DZ 3UL
SHW SKRWRJU
E\ * AMIE
ZZZ SDZSULQWVE\MDPLH FRP a ZZZ ID
Publisher Jennifer Kitchens-Street (281) 384.5431
jennifer@urbanpawsmagazine.com
Advertising (281) 384.5431
sales@urbanpawsmagazine.com
Contributing Writers Rosanna Russell Christie Cornelius, DVM Pamela Duffy Boich John Edwards, DVM
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 2: Volume 8
EVENT CALENDAR 6 March 2014
THE SCOOP 7
Canine News and Happenings
BARKING LOT 10
MCASociety to Host Tails & Trails Event
SPECIAL FEATURE 12
Making a Plan to Say Goodbye
BODY & SOUL 14
A Tribute to the Life of a Legendary Dog That Helped Make a Stronger Cruelty Law in Texas
HEALTH & WELLNESS 20
A Pet’s Passing - Insight and Advice from a Veterinarian’s Perspective
ADOPTION 24
Tiny Paws 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.
BE A PART OF OUR DOG LOVING COMMUNITY! ON THE WEB
urbanpawsmagazine.com
FIND US ON FACEBOOK
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER ARTICLES, EVENTS, CONTESTS & MORE!
COMING IN MARCH:
Eco-Friendly Pet Products and Services
COMING IN MAY: Pet Safety Issue
Contact us for special advertising opportunities at 281.384.5431
event calendar
MARCH
For a full list of events, visit: www.urbanpawsmagazine.com/events MARCH 1
Wine, Art and AAR at Vino Artino, 11550 Louetta Road. Join Abandoned Animal Rescue for a fun painting party. All supplies are provided. You will leave with your own interpretation of a Texas Farmhouse. $50 per person includes appetizers and wine. To register, email info@aartomball.org.
MARCH 2
16th Annual Krewe of Barkus & Meoux Parade. Bringing out the best in people and their pets, this parade begins at 28th and Seawall and proceeds west to 47th Street, to the Academy parking lot. Pets of all sizes, shapes, and species are welcome (costumes optional). Registration begins at 11:00am and the pre- parade costume contest begins at 11:30, with the winners making up the Royal Court. For more information, http://www.mardigrasgalveston.com/seawall/para des.asp.
MARCH 7
Katy Visual & Performing Arts Center (KVPAC) at West Oaks Mall is casting a spotlight on our fourlegged friends through its ArtBARK Dog Art Show. For just $10, dog owners can submit a photo of their pooch to be rendered as one-of-a-kind masterpiece by KVPAC artists. All canine artworks will be featured in the ArtBARK Dog Art Show, opening Friday, March 7 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
MARCH 9
Pet-A-Palooza at Discovery Green. 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Spend your day in the park with Mix 96.5 and your
furry friend celebrating our animal love affair! Special Performance by American Authors. This event is free and open to the public.
MARCH 9
Boneyard 3rd Anniversary Bash benefiting Weimaraner Rescue of Texas. Boneyard Drinkery, 8150 Washington Ave. 1:00 - 7:00 p.m. Activities include: silent auction and raffle, Pinot’s Palette Painting, Micro-chipping, nail trims and dog face painting, free giveaways, food truck and much more. For more information, visit www.boneyardhouston.com.
MARCH 16
Adoptable shelties from Houston Sheltie Sanctuary will be at Boneyard Drinkery from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Gift baskets will be available for raffle drawings as well as homemade goodies for the bake sale. For more information, visit www.houstonsheltiesanctuary.com.
MARCH 23
33rd Annual K9 Fun Run with Houston Humane Society. Sam Houston Park, 1100 Bagby. To register, visit www.houstonhumane.org.
MARCH 28-29
Garage sale for Houston Beagle and Hound Rescue. Help support the beagles by coming by and finding some treasures. Email info@houstonbeaglerescue.org for location and donations.
Follow us on FACEBOOK & TWITTER for the most up-to-date information, news and events! 6 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
the scoop
FURminator Features Rescued Pets on New Product Packaging
FURminator hopes to focus attention on the millions of pets in shelters in the US and sup-
port the work of the many–including volunteers–who help find them loving homes.
FURminator hopes to encourage pet lovers to
take action and support local shelters, through
adoption, volunteering or donating. In addition to their efforts to raise awareness of shelter pets,
FURminator has donated 10 cases of the Beautiful Rescue shampoo bottles to the Pet Rescue Network.
To learn more about FURminator’s efforts to
give pets the happy lives that they deserve, visit www.furminator.com/blog.aspx. FURminator, known for its role as pioneers in
pet hair solutions, has launched a new campaign,
“Beautiful Rescues,” to show its support for pet
The Weather Channel Falls in Love with its New Weather Therapy Dog After weeks of
traveling to res-
rescue organizations and pets in need.
cue shelters
In 2013, FURminator partnered with Pet
across the
Rescue Network (PRN), an all-volunteer foster
United States
network in St. Louis, Missouri, to create adop-
and an over-
tion posters as a way of both showing the beau-
whelming
ty and bringing out the personality of a group
response from
of rescue dogs. The goal of this effort was to help match them with committed families who
weather and
are able to provide a safe, loving and forever
puppy fans, The Weather Channel® has select-
in shining light on the beauty of rescue pets and,
py dog. Butler will appear, along with Amy
home. These posters were incredible successful ultimately, in helping find homes for the dogs.
To show further support, FURminator revised
its shampoo packaging, using photos of these
same rescued dogs. In this simple way, by featuring rescue dogs on their shampoo bottles,
ed Butler, a shepherd mix, as its weather theraMcCullough, his handler from American
Humane Association, on The Weather Channel network for the first time during a special
Valentine’s Day edition of “Morning Rush” (7 a.m. – 10 a.m. ET).
Butler is a 35-pound, 1.5 year-old male shep-
Urban Paws Magazine 7
the scoop
herd mix who was rescued from the Humane
CEO of American Humane Association. “We
days after arriving at the shelter. Butler stole
Weather Channel and America’s newest nation-
Society of Charlotte, North Carolina, just four the hearts of producers, on-air talent and representatives from American Humane
Association. The perfect therapy dog, Butler is
are looking forward to deploying with The
al emergency response volunteer to make a difference when crisis strikes.”
In the weeks and months following a natural
affectionate, loves to kiss and sit in the laps of
disaster, Butler and American Humane
getic, and will play a vital role in the health of
schools, hospitals, shelters and other locations
others. He is attentive, well mannered and enercommunities in times of disaster.
“We searched far and wide for a dog who
met the criteria to become our network’s severe weather therapy dog – and we fell in love with Butler,” said David Clark, president of The
Weather Channel network. “As the number of
Association handler Amy McCullough will visit in hard-hit communities to bring comfort and service. Fans of The Weather Channel can
share in Butler’s journeys and follow his trail on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/TherapyDogButler.
grow each year, The Weather Channel is happy
Arts Come to West Oaks Mall Thanks to Katy Visual and Performing Arts Center
these families in their time of need.”
Arts Center (KVPAC West Oaks) will offer a
families affected by severe weather continues to to welcome Butler, who will help bring joy to The decision to search for a therapy dog
came out of the growing need to help people in hard-hit communities recover after severe
weather strikes. Last December, The Weather
West Oaks Mall and Katy Visual & Performing number of new arts activities, including free intro classes, events and exhibitions to West Houston area residents this spring.
Dog lovers have a chance to have their four-
Channel announced a partnership with
legged friends portraits created and displayed
the nationwide search to find the perfect dog.
Houstonians can submit their pooch’s photo to
American Humane Association and launched In searching, several criteria had to be met.
Viewers and weather.com visitors nominated rescue dogs from all over the country.
“Butler will bring the healing power of ani-
mal-assisted therapy to help individuals, fami-
lies, and communities in their times of greatest need,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and 8 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
at the ArtBARK Dog Art Show. For just $10,
be rendered as a one-of-a-kind masterpiece by a KVPAC artist. All canine artworks will be featured in the ArtBARK Dog Art Show,
opening Friday, March 7 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at West Oaks Mall.
To learn more about KVPAC at West Oaks
Mall, or to view the calendar of events, please
the scoop
visit www.westoaksarthouse.org.
selected and are endorsed as “Kriser’s
ALL-NATURAL PET RETAILER EXPANDS INTO TEXAS
Brad Kriser, CEO and founder.
Approved” only after an extensive review,” said “We look forward to carrying on this tradition
in Houston and becoming a resource for area
pet parents to help their companions live long, healthy lives.”
Additionally, to celebrate the new location
and to initiate their commitment to the
Houston pet community, Kriser’s will partner with several local rescue groups and animal
shelters. Donations of Kriser’s product will be awarded to each organization as part of the Kriser’s Cares grand opening initiative.
For more information, visit www.krisers.com.
Kriser’s, a multi-unit retailer specializing in allnatural pet food, supplies and grooming, has
expanded into Texas with their first Houston store that opened on February 8, in the West University neighborhood at 5160 Buffalo Speedway.
The store will bring Houston pet parents the
very best offerings of all-natural pet foods,
treats, toys, supplements and supplies along
with in-store grooming services that also utilize
all-natural products. Kriser’s trained staff offers customer and their pets an unparalleled educational shopping experience.
“At Kriser's, we believe the all-natural
approach truly does make a difference in the
lives of pets and pet parents alike. That is why all of our products and services are carefully
Urban Paws Magazine 9
barking lot MCASociety to Host Tails & Trails Event in The Woodlands
I
f you’ve ever visited an animal shelter you
potential adopter and the dog. Often times dogs’
exactly seen at their best when cowering in
mally would when they are under the pressure
would know that shelter dogs are not
the back of a concrete kennel. Some don’t
cower but rather bark incessantly, jumping and lunging forward essentially begging to be let out.
So it is no surprise that many go overlooked when adopters are left to simply stroll down the aisle of the shelter without the ability to truly
personalities don’t shine through as they nor-
of the shelter environment,” says MCAS shelter director and MCASociety board member, Minda
Harris. Visitors to the event will be able to
“check out” a dog of their choosing to take for a walk around a designated pathway.
Because MCAS is at the very north end of
interact with available pups. To really see a dog’s
The Woodlands on SH 242, many people are
zone. And what better place to witness a dog’s
have lost a pet might not know that it is the first
personality you have get him in his own comfort true nature than at a park?
Adoptable dogs will be spotlighted this year at
a brand new pet-centric and family-friendly
event. Tails & Trails will be held at Rob Flemming Park in the Village of Creekside Park
in The Woodlands, TX on Saturday, June 7 from 11am – 5pm and will feature not only adoptable
unaware that the shelter even exists. People who place they should look. MCAS has many differ-
ent resources to help people reunite with their
lost pets. Event organizer Heather Calkins says, “We aim to increase awareness of the shelter as a place to not only adopt a pet but also to search for missing pets.”
To keep Tails & Trails visitors entertained the
dogs but an array of vendors, entertainment,
event will feature musical performances by
Sponsored by Montgomery County Animal
& Trails will feature many local businesses
educational booths and more.
Society (MCASociety), the official non-profit in
support of Montgomery County Animal Shelter
(MCAS), the event will focus on the idea that
giving families time to walk and interact with shelter animals in a beautiful park setting
(instead of among the chaos of an animal shelter) will allow for a more accurate assessment of
Midnight Vixen and BLSHS. Additionally, Tails
including Natural Pawz, Scentsy All About Doody and more. All About Doody will serve as
the official pooper scoopers to ensure visitors have a pleasant and “doody free” experience.
Natural Pawz plans to give away free pet-related
products while other vendors will have items for
sale with proceeds benefiting MCASociety.
whether or not the dog is a good fit for the
Several pieces of artwork from local Texas
this extra time and space a true bonding experi-
Visitors can enter a raffle to win items such as
potential adopter’s family. “We hope that given ence will be allowed to flourish between the
10 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
artists will be available for silent auction. leather dog collars, bags and leashes from
By: Rosanna Russell, MCAS
Thirty-One, items from Scentsy, and gift certifi-
cates for services at Sprout Salons, just to name a few.
the works are plans for a bounce house, face painting, and a balloon animal making clown.
Tails & Trails promises to be a fun, educational
Educational booths will also be a big part of
event for the entire family. MCASociety plans
to get animals adopted but also hopes to shed
mals of the year and hopes to be able to make
Tails & Trails as MCASociety doesn’t just want some light on animal overpopulation in Montgomery County. Texas Litter Control will be partnering with MCAS
volunteer Marilyn Angel
to inform the public about the importance of
spaying or neutering your pet and to provide information
on
low
cost
spay/neuter programs in the Montgomery County area.
MCAS’ youth volunteer
group Pet Pals will join in the festivities, too. “One of the goals for Pet Pals is
to provide ways for youth
ages 3-16 years old and their families to become
involved in helping the shelter
animals,”
says
Felecha Freeman, MCAS Pet Pals organizer. For the
kids enjoyment MCAS Pet Pals will also have a temporary tattoo table and a
small craft table. Also in
on this being the biggest benefiting MCAS anithis an annual event. The shelter dogs hope to see you there!
Making a Plan to Say Goodbye
A checklist to help prepare you for the loss of your pet
12 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
By Christie Cornelius, DVM, Last Wishes In-Home Pet Hospice & Euthanasia
The days, weeks, and months that follow the
diagnosis of a pet’s terminal illness is undoubtedly the most challenging for both the pet and the caretaker. How the journey ends is mostly
determined by the decisions made by the pet’s caretaker and the veterinarian(s) involved in the pet’s end-of-life care. Feeling prepared may help
you have fewer regrets about how, when, and
euthanasia with your veterinarian, your personal
therapist, and/or a counselor specializing in pet
loss and grief. You will need all of the support that you can get.
• Research your options for your pet’s end-oflife care:
1. Euthanasia at your vet’s clinic 2. Home euthanasia 3. Pet hospice care.
where your pet dies.
• Decide whether or not you want to be present
understanding of how to recognize and manage
• Inform family members, friends, and others
Today, the veterinary community has a better
chronic physical, emotional, and mental pain and suffering. Our approach to veterinary endof-life care is now beginning to mimic human end-of-life care. A properly executed hospice
and palliative care plan for pets is essential for both the well-being of the pet and the caretak-
er, and often involves a team of dedicated indi-
viduals working together to provide the best end-of-life experience possible.
The following is a checklist to help you better
prepare for your pet’s loss and make arrangements ahead of time.
• Obtain a clear understanding of your pet’s
diagnosis, the expected symptoms, available treatment options, and possible outcomes rela-
during your pet’s euthanasia.
who love you and your pet about your pet’s condition, and give them the opportunity to say goodbye or be present for your pet’s euthanasia. • Research your options for your pet’s body care: 1. Private cremation
2. Communal cremation
3. Home burial (keep in mind county regulations)
4. Pet Cemetery
• Collect poems, prayers, music, or memorials
that will be meaningful and comfort you during your pet’s euthanasia.
• Make a plan in the event of a medical emer-
gency - i.e. acute collapse, severe pain, difficulty breathing, seizure, etc.
ed to your pet’s disease. Have your vet discuss
It is never too early to start your preparations.
to improve or maintain an acceptable quality of
length of suffering in your pet, and ease your
with you your pet’s quality of life and how best life.
• Discuss the medical and emotional aspects of
Being proactive may lessen the severity and
anxiety and calm your fears over the anticipation of losing a loved one.
Urban Paws Magazine 13
body & soul A Tribute to the Life of a Legendary Dog By Pamela Duffy Boich, Texas Humane Legislation Network
L
oco was a legendary Texas companion animal whose story captured the hearts
of Austin legislators as well as people across the state of Texas. Loco's story paved the way for
the Texas Humane Legislation Network's animal
cruelty statute to pass into law in 2001. Loco
served as an ambassador to Texas lawmakers and put a face to the weak animal cruelty laws that existed in Texas at that time.
Thanks to Loco's Law, since 2001, animal
Texas Governor Rick Perry with Loco and THLN at the signing of the animal cruelty statute into law in 2001.
charges, up to 2 years imprisonment, and can
passing recently at the age of thirteen. Loco
abusers like Loco's are subject to state felony face up to a $10,000 fine.
As an 8 month old pup, Loco was stolen from his family's backyard, only to be found days later on their doorstep missing both eyes. It was clear
leaves behind a lasting legacy in Texas for the millions of animals across the state who are better protected thanks to him being a brave little soldier.
someone had intentionally harmed this defense-
You can make more animal welfare laws a reali-
vided only misdemeanor charges with minor
work to be done to protect animals in the state
less puppy, but sadly Texas law at the time pro-
consequences. After giving him the care he needed, Loco's family, Greg and Carol Autry, jumped into action with THLN to craft a
stronger animal cruelty bill and lobbied to pass
ty with just minutes of your time. There is more of Texas, and THLN has a 30+ year track record getting animal welfare legislation passed into Texas law.
it into law. And we did it!
The puppy mill crackdown law, the ban on dog
The cruelty bill was signed into law by both
and the animal cruelty statute with felony penal-
Governor Rick Perry and Loco’s paw print in
2001, and Loco went on to receive many other
fighting, statewide spay-neuter program funding ties.
accolades and awards for his bravery. Thankfully
All of the above are a direct result of THLN’s
today we recognize and celebrate his life and
when prompted by THLN. Register for Action
Loco had a long life with his loving family, and accomplishments that live on after his gentle 14 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
work and Texas citizens like you taking action Alerts at www.THLN.org.
Operation Pets Alive helps Lily, Pit Bull Ambassador celebrate her birthday by giving dogs a second chance
T
he Woodlands' g oodwill canine
adopted.
celebrated her third birthday in a
501(c)3 non-profit, flagship programs.
ambassador and therapy dog, Lily,
huge way. Three years ago, Lily was surrendered to a local shelter after having
been discarded by a breeder that didn’t like her markings. Fortunately, she was given a second chance. Lily was not only
adopted by a loving forever family but
has gone on to become a therapy dog who is very active in our community. In
addition to conducting weekly visits with elderly residents, some of whom suffer
from Alzheimer’s, she hosts collection drives to help people and pets. Lily also
The
transpor t
is
one
of
Operation Pets Alive, a Woodlands based
Lily chose to team up with Operation Pets Alive after seeing the incredible
impact they have made in the community.
After meeting with OPA president, Marcia Piotter, Lily found that they share
the same goals of promoting responsible
pet ownership, educating the public about adopting shelter pets, spaying and
neutering, and helping make a positive
difference for shelter pets in the community.
advocates responsible pet ownership and
“Lily’s Birthday Gift ~ Transport #82”
ness events and presentations.
after a birthday celebration that included
safety around dogs through public awareOn Wednesday, January 15, Lily gave the
“Gift of a Second Chance” to 10 at risk
dogs from MCAS by sponsoring their
transport to the Dakin Pioneer Humane Society in Dakin, Massachusetts, where they will have a 99.9% chance of being 16 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
departed from Best Friends Pet Resort
cake for the fosters and volunteers attending, goodies for the dogs being
transported and lots of pictures. Each transport dog received a special tennis
ball toy and bandana from Lily commemorating their journey and a personally pawtographed letter to their adopters,
letting them know that these “Dixie Dogs” (as they are affectionately known
in the northeast) are indeed special pups.
As they boarded the transport, the volunteers affectionately kissed and hug ged their fosters goodbye, gave them their
personal toys and treats to enjoy their
ride, and wished them and the transporters well. Peruse pictures of Lily’s party on Facebook.
After three days and several Twitter
updates on the status of the dogs’ journey, news came of the dogs’ arrival in Massachusetts on Saturday. Lily’s friends
received a rock star welcome and their story even aired on the local news with coverage by Channel 22 announcing the
arrival of the “Dixie Dogs.” For these dogs and the others on the transport, a
happily ever after is almost surely guaranteed, many maybe within a week.
Now the community has an opportunity to help more homeless dogs from the
shelter. Sadly, many of Lily’s friends from the shelter were not able to make
the journey due to illness or lack of
funding. There is a new group of pups ready for transport but in need of funds.
The good news is that they have an opportunity to board the next transport, which departs on Wednesday, January 29
if sufficient funds are raised on their behalf. Lily is asking her friends and the community to help her continue giving
the “Gift of a Second Chance” to more
shelter dogs by making a donation to fund their transport. An individual dog
can be sponsored for $200, although par-
tial donations in any amount are accepted. According to Lily, just like random
acts of kindness, “No donation is ever too small, especially when it will be used
to save a life!”
Donations should be
made directly to Operation Pets Alive through their PayPal account. Credit and Urban Paws Magazine 17
debit cards are accepted as well. Please
click on the plus sign to add a note in the “Add special instructions to seller” field stating “for Lily’s friend”, and they will
receive a special bandana commemorating their jour ney and thanking their sponsor(s).
OPA is a nonprofit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3)
corporation. Donations to OPA are taxdeductible to the extent allowed by U.S. law. Please consider asking your employer for any corporate matching prog rams available.
As of the end of September
2013, Operation Pets Alive has transported over 1,055 animals, adopted over 876 animals, assisted with the distribution of
over 1,470 spay/neuter vouchers and TBR’s over 394 cats/kittens. Operation
Pets Alive has several flagship programs that are significant because they reduce
shelter intake and increase live release of
animals. These include a targeted spayand-neuter for large dogs; transports of
long-ter m at risk shelter dogs to organizations in northern states via the P.E.T.S. truck transport or by Cloud Nine’s small
plane for Flight for Life; Foster and
Adoption Program, and a Trap-NeuterReturn for feral cats.
18 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
mutt mugs
“It takes nothing away from a human to be kind to an animal.� - Joaquin Phoenix
Urban Paws Magazine 19
health & wellness A Pet’s Passing Insight and Advice from a Veterinarian’s Perspective
exotic pets, that lifespan can be relatively short.
In other cases, such as smaller breed dogs, cats,
and horses, it can be a significant chunk of
our lives. And in still
other cases, they can
outlive us, as in some
parrot species and tor-
toises. No matter what the
pet's lifespan, they can affect
our lives in varied and often
unforeseen ways.
Death affects everyone differently. A per-
son living alone with their pet as a main
emotional support may have that pet's pass-
ing effect them in substantial ways, while a
person with large family of pets may be more
accustomed to it. It is important to recog-
nize every unique individual's right to experience the stages of grief as needed in order to accept their pets passing.
A
pet dies. Most everyone with a pet will go through it. Death is an inevitable
part of life in the animal kingdom. The length of that life, when lived to its healthiest extremes,
is dependent on the species and the genetic “internal life-clock” of that particular pet. In
some cases, such as larger breed dogs and many 20 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
Studies have shown that pet owners experience
the same stages of grief over the loss of a pet as they would for the loss of human family and
friends. The five stages of grief, defined by the Kübler-Ross model, are denial, anger, bargain-
ing, depression, and acceptance. While accept-
By: John Edwards, DVM, North Houston Veterinary Specialists
ance is always the final step, the other stages can
developed health issues consistent with aging,
or not be present at all. Everyone must come to
or have had a serious injury, and (3) behavior
appear in any order, repeat one or a few times, terms with loss at their own pace. While dealing with our own grief, we might also be called upon to help others cope with their feelings of loss.
Occasionally, a family member will gently tell a loved one to stop crying after the pet’s passing.
This must be recognized as what is truly is, and that is their desire to fix the emotional pain of
the ones we love. Sometimes, this is not a realis-
(2) younger animals experiencing serious illness
problems. Although it is important to communicate with your veterinarian on all pet-death
related issues, the topic of behavioral problems
is a special case that is best left for an individualized, case-specific talk with your veterinarian, so we will focus on the other two, more common, reasons for a pet to pass or be euthanized.
tic expectation in times of loss. Releasing emo-
In cases of geriatric pets, usually the problems
along for many people. It is also common for
Occasionally, the problems were hidden, and
tions may actually speed the grieving process emotions to surface at unexpected times after some time has passed, often with little warning.
The need to help our loved ones through the experience can be especially true when children
are involved, as the loss of a pet may be their first experience with death and grief. It is rec-
ommended to help them through understand
this, rather than hide the issue, in order to prepare them for future experiences with loss. In
any situation where anger or depression are
are chronic and have been worsening over time.
surface suddenly in drastic, life-threatening ways. Sometimes medications or surgery can help minimize symptoms for some time but, inevitably, there will come a time where many pet owners will either see their pet pass away
naturally, or must make a decision to humanely euthanize their pet based on a deterioration of
their condition. In making the decision to euthanize, one very important fact can help us with
the emotions of the decision. It is important to
realize that what is a portion of our lives is an
impairing functioning, or other severe emotion-
entire lifetime for that pet. What person would
to seek professional assistance.
family and to pass away with minimal suffering?
al problems surface, it is always recommended There are usually three circumstances in a vet-
erinary clinic. The most common scenarios in which humane euthanasia is considered in a veterinary clinic are: (1) Geriatric pets that have
not want to grow old surrounded by a loving
A wise veterinarian once asked me “At some
point, we must ask: Are we extending life, or extending suffering?”
On the issue topic of euthanasia, it must be conUrban Paws Magazine 21
sidered a compassionate end to a good life.
you and your family in your decision. Most all
possibility of continued suffering and pain.
what you are going through. Some will cry with
Without euthanasia as an option, there is the
Medically, it allows us to control the unpredictable aspects of death, and allows our pets to pass painlessly with one or more family members present if desired.
In cases where animals may pass away before
their time, as with puppies, kittens, or young animals, this may force the owner to make a more
difficult decision. These choices can be harder to cope because they can arise from a lack of
ability to correct the condition, be it technically,
practically, or financially. In these situations, owners should understand that they are their pet’s best resource for medical treatment for
their pets, and if the options are not feasible,
then sometimes the most humane option is euthanasia.
To put this in perspective, animal shelters in this country are overcrowded with millions of pets, including many who are perfectly adoptable, but may not have a loving family to take care of
their needs. Your pet, just by being a beloved
member of your family, is one of the lucky ones. When the time comes for us to deal with their
passing, we should focus on how much better we made their lives and the ways in which they positively impacted ours.
Finally, remember that your veterinarian is with 22 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
veterinarians have lost their own pets, and know
you freely and some won’t. It just depends on how they deal with a powerfully emotional experience.
No matter how veterinarians handle
death, their job is to be an advocate for your pet based on our knowledge, and will do whatever they can to get your through this experience in
the most positive way possible. This could be recommending
websites/books,
sympathy
cards, or talking about personal experiences, and
in extreme cases, recommending talking to someone about their loss. In every unique situation, the goal is acceptance and moving for-
ward with our longer, human lives in a positive way.
adoption Tiny Paws Rescue www.tinypawsrescue.com
Tiny Paws Rescue is an all-volunteer organization with foster homes in the Houston and Spring areas, as well as Connecticut. They are dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of abused, abandoned and neglected small breed dogs. As with most rescue groups, the dogs are cared for in healthy, safe and loving foster home environments. Tiny Paws and volunteer foster parents work very hard to ensure that their foster dogs feel safe and loved while working on house training, crate training, socialization and other skills.
Tequila is a smart, loving boy who
Our cover dog, Tequila!
was rescued from a high kill shel-
ter. Tequila had heartworms, but has been treated and is now ready for his forever home.
He loves walks, a cozy lap to lay on, car rides and sleeping under
the covers at night. He is excellent with other dogs. He runs around with his squeaky toy at
times but also loves to go in his little crate and relax.
Tequila will still your heart with his amazing personality and his little snaggle toothed smile.
Photos by Paw Prints by Jamie Pet Photography.
24 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
Handsome Pepe was rescued from a high-kill shelter with a broken paw. He is currently in a cast and will be ready for adoption mid-March. He is a gentle, smart loving boy who just wants to please. Pepe is a total lap dog and loves walks. He would like a calm home where he can relax on the couch, sleep in the bed and sun outside. Pepe is amazing inside and out.
Pepe
Join us in helping our four-legged friends find loving homes. Adopt a dog today!
Charlie What's not to love about Mugsy? She's adorable, easygoing, playful & wellmannered. In addition to being house, crate & leash trained, Mugsy does not bark - that's right, not at all! If you are looking for a near effortless companion, Mugsy fits the bill to a tee. She will gaze at you lovingly with her big, brown eyes & be the best snuggle buddy you could ever ask for. She loves everyone she meets, young & old, rides calmly in a car, and loves to go new places. Mugsy is very gentle with little dogs, but she is not a fan of cats or big dogs, and she tires after just a short walk.
Charlie was found roaming the streets of Southeast Houston. He was thin and matted and had to be shaved down. He is now gaining weight. Charlie would do best with a companion dog due to his energy, but would probably be fine in a home with active children or active adults. He loves to fetch and chase and enjoys chasing birds and squirrels. He does like to relax next to your feet when you are sitting on the couch. Charlie is a lover who likes to give lots of kisses.
Mugsy 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.
26 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com