May 2014 by Urban Paws Magazine

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Is your pet happy, healthy and

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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 John Blakely, DVM Buff Burns

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 4: Volume 8

EVENT CALENDAR 6 May 2014

THE SCOOP 7

Canine News and Happenings

BEHAVIOR 10

What You Should Know About Dog Bite Prevention

BODY & SOUL 12

Operation Pits Healing Heroes

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT 16 Artist Ron Burns

HEALTH & WELLNESS 20

The Cost of Emergency Veterinary Care

ADOPTION 24

Texas Gulf Coast Bull Terrier Rescue ÂŠ Copyright 2014. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without the publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 JUNE: Training & Behavior

COMING IN JULY:

8th Anniversary Issue Contact us for special advertising opportunities at 281.384.5431

event calendar

MAY

For a full list of events, visit: www.urbanpawsmagazine.com/events MAY 3

Helping Huskies event at Winston’s on Washington. 5111 Washington Ave. 4:00 - 10:00 p.m. Silent auction, raffles, door prizes and games.

MAY 3

Rummage Sale benefiting MCASociety, the official non-profit supporting MCAS, at the shelter, 8535 Hwy 242 in Conroe, TX. 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.mcaspets.org.

MAY 3

View the 30 dogs 30 days exhibit at the Spring Art Festival on Market Street in the Woodlands. These paintings have benn on display at various events and will be auctioned off with 50% of the proceeds going to Operation Pets Alive! For more information, visit http://www.30dogs30days.com.

MAY 3

The Arthritis Foundation’s annual Houston fundraising walk will be at Tom Bass Regional Park, 15108 Cullen Blvd. at 8:00 a.m. The walk will feature a three-mile and one-mile course. There will be information about arthritis and fun activities for the entire family. Pet owners are encouraged to bring their dogs. For more information, please call 713-942-9063 or email sveit@ltbaehr.com.

MAY 3

Pints for Pups Block Party at 2:00 p.m. This month, Underdogs Sports Pub is partnering with Pearl Bar and Little J's Bar to benefit four rescues: Lone Star, Coalition, Lucky Dog and Forgotten Friends. Come

out for an early Cinco de Mayo celebration and help out a lot of puppies in the process!

MAY 9-10

Garage Sale benefiting Tiny Paws Rescue. 308 E. Main Street in Tomball. Saturday from 9am- 6pm and Sunday from 7am - 3pm. For more information, visit www.tinypawsrescue.com.

MAY 10

Houston Beagle & Hound Rescue’s Annual BYOB (Bring Your Own Beagle) party. Food, festivities and fun at Pawty Palace, 1402 East Ave. in Katy. 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. $10 donation per person is requested. For more information, visit www.houstonbeaglerescue.org.

MAY 13-19

National Dog Bite Prevention week.

MAY 17

Tiny Paws Rescue Adoption event at Petco, F.M. 1960 and Stuebner Airline. 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. www.tinypawsrescue.com.

MAY 17

PugHearts Adoption event at Natural Dawg. 24140 U.S. 290 in Cypress. 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. PugHearts fosters will be on hand to find homes for the 100+ dogs in their care. For more information, visit www.pughearts.com.

the scoop

Annual Houston Dog Show Changes Its Name

dogshows.com.

Houston Astros Dog Ready to Play Baseball Plenty of MLB teams have dog-themed days at the ballpark. People and players bring their fourlegged friends and a good time is had by all.

The Houston Astros beat the Athletics 5-1 at

Minute Maid Park, where the Astros hosted a Out with the old and in with the new. The annu-

Pooch Parade prior to the game.

The Dog Day Parade makes for some great

al series of dog shows is changing names from

photos, too, but nothing quite as great as this

“Houston World Series of Dog Shows.” Avid

Parade on Sunday, April 27, 2014.

“Reliant Park World Series of Dog Shows” to

dog show fans need not to worry. The Houston World Series of Dog Shows, held at NRG Center (formerly Reliant Center), July 16-20,

2014, is still the same spectacular canine extrav-

shot of a Great Dane from the Astros' Dog Day This dog has an Astros hat, dog jersey, pants

with a belt. And, are those dog stirrups? Get this dog a glove or a bat!

aganza the whole family can enjoy.

“Changing the name from “Reliant Park World

Series of Dog Shows” to “Houston World

Series of Dog Shows” helps associate the dog

show more firmly with Houston,” says Tom Pincus, show chairperson.

The Houston World Series of Dog Shows,

sanctioned by the American Kennel Club, super-

vised by Onofrio Dog Shows and sponsored by Purina® Pro Plan®, is Houston’s must-see dog event! This premier canine event attracts 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.houstonUrban Paws Magazine 7

pet projects

Every pooch, big or small, goes crazy for bacon! This Bubba Rose biscuit recipe is a wheat and sugar free treat that will have your dogs drooling. Bubba Rose Biscuit Company “Organic Dog Biscuit Cookbook”

8 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

Dog Treat Recipe WHEAT-FREE GRILLED CHEESE WITH BACON

A wonderful addition to an all-time favorite

INGREDIENTS 1 c. oat flour 1 c. brown rice flour 1/2 c. shredded low-fat cheddar cheese 6 slices cooked bacon 1 egg 1/2 c. water

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 350˚. Cook bacon slices, then finely grind them in a food processor. Combine all ingredients and mix thoroughly until a dough forms. roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to 1/4” thickness. Use a cookie cutter or a pizza cutter to cut out shapes. Place on a cookie sheet lined with aluminum foil (easier to clean up). Treats can be placed close together as they don’t spread while cooking. Talley, Jessica Disbrow., and Eric Talley. The Organic Dog Biscuit Cookbook: Bubba Rose Biscuit Company. Kennebunkport, Me.: Cider Mill, 2008. Print.

Urban Paws Magazine 9

behavior What You Should Know About Dog Bite Prevention National Dog Bite Prevention Week takes

DID YOU KNOW?

year, and focuses on educating people about

ten by dogs each year, with small children and

place during the third full week of May each preventing dog bites.

• Approximately 4.7 million Americans are bitthe elderly among the most frequent victims.

Take this opportunity to learn more about dog

• 885,000 of those injured need medical atten-

can all work together to prevent dog bites.

five percent of all emergency room visits.

bite prevention and help educate others so we

tion, with dog bite victims accounting for up to

• Most dog bites occur in the home of the victim’s family members or friends.

• Children (especially boys age 5-9) are

three times more likely than adults to be seriously bitten.

• Dogs bite young children (age 4 and under) most often on the face, head and

neck because kids are around the same

height as a dog and because they can crawl into small, low spaces where the dog can reach.

• 50 percent of all children in the U.S. will be bitten by a dog before their 12th birthday.

DOG BITE PREVENTION TIPS

• Don’t turn and run–dogs naturally love to chase and catch things.

• Stand still, with your hands at your sides. In most cases, the dog will go away when 10 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

By: Bob Williams, Bark Busters Dog Training

it determines that you are not a threat.

Dogs are wonderful companions and respond

• Don’t put your hand out–just allow the dog to

acting responsibly with your dog, you not only

approach you to sniff you.

• Don’t scream. If you say anything, speak calmly and firmly.

• Face the dog at all times, but don’t stare. Avoid eye contact.

• Back away slowly, watching the dog from the

corner of your eye until the dog is out of sight.

SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS

• Never leave a young child or baby alone with any dog.

• Never allow your young child to discipline a dog.

well to consistent training and leadership. By

reduce the number of dog bites but also enhance the relationship you have with your canine companion.

Note to Parents: Since dogs are such an impor-

tant part of many kids’ lives, Bark Busters Home Dog Training believes that every child

should be educated about dog safety. Our Bach

and Buster Buddy Dog Safety Program is designed to help kids stay safe using fun games and activities to teach them to make the right

choices around familiar and unfamiliar dogs. For

more information about dog safety with kids, visit BarkBustersBuddy.org.

Bob Williams is a Master Dog Trainer and Behavioral Therapist for Bark Busters Home Dog Training. To schedule an appointment, call 713.771.2275.

• Never allow your child to feed or walk a dog unsupervised.

• Never allow your child to pull on a dog’s collar, ears or tail.

• Never allow your child to play aggressive games (like wrestling) with any dog.

• Never allow your child to pet a dog that is in someone else’s car or truck.

Urban Paws Magazine 11

body & soul Operation Pits Healing Heroes

ince it’s founding in 2010, Guardian Pit

Bull Rescue has been on a mission to save lives and change minds by rescuing and

proven to be one of the most effective methods of help in transitioning into civilian life.

So why does it matter? Because we couldn’t

creating ambassadors for the Pit Bull breeds

think of a more important or deserving cause

Statistics show, that on average, only 1 in 600

resource to veterans while saving the life of a

through advocacy, education, and adoptions.

Pit Bulls finds a forever home once they are in

the shelter system. This is because of breed specific legislation, prejudice, and simply being misunderstood. A few things many veterans can

than helping our nation’s bravest. To offer this

dog facing an unfair fate based simply on how they look, is a win for the veteran, the Pit Bull, and our society.

Operation Pits Healing Heroes is a program

easily relate to. Many of our rescues over the

designed to improve the lives of some of our

than just a family companion.

of breed of dog who knows first hand how

years have displayed an innate ability to be more The idea to train and partner rescued Pit Bulls

with veterans in need was something very important to one of Guardian’s founders, who

is a veteran himself. The kind of healing, camaraderie, and service a dog can a veteran has

12 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

nation’s bravest men and women with the help

unfair life can sometimes be. These veterans

have given so much of themselves and often come back home only to find life much differ-

ent from when they left, forcing them to live

with daily struggles such as disabilities & PTSD.

Sometimes, what they need more than anything, is a loyal companion that can be there with them

through their journey of life after serving in a

combat zone. A Pit Bull by nature is one of the

most loyal, devoted, and versatile breeds which makes them the perfect partner as service and therapy dogs.

Through the group’s years of rescue, rehabili-

tation and placement of homeless, unwanted, neglected and abused Pit Bulls, they have seen

“We believe with strong conviction that this program will make a difference, not just in the lives of the Pit Bulls we save, but also in the lives of America’s heroes, one partnership at a time.”

firsthand that many of these dogs in need have

of our returning heroes. They believe with

ly pet. They often times have an innate ability to

difference, not just in the lives of the Pit Bulls

the heart and mind to be more than just a fami-

connect with children, the disabled, or the elderly in a way that soothes a person’s soul and can brighten even the darkest day.

strong conviction that this program will make a they save, but also in the lives of America’s heroes, one partnership at a time.

OPHH is a special program of Guardian Pit

Canine candidates for this program will be

Bull Rescue, a 501c3 breed specific rescue in

an partner. The program is open to any veteran

Bull Rescue, GPBR, has served Houston and

trained specifically for the needs of their veter-

from any military branch that feels they would benefit from a canine companion and therapy dog. These dogs are trained and partnered with veterans through OPHH free of charge to the veteran.

OPHH hopes to improve the lives of the

Houston, Texas. Founded in 2010 Guardian Pit Texas area Pit Bulls through education, advocacy, and rescue.

For more information, or to learn more about

the application process, visit www.opera-

tionphh.org.

silent sufferers, to help heal the visible and invis-

ible scars, and to make the lives of our brave and

honorable veterans just a bit easier by placing a new guardian with them to join their civilian

journey. OPHH feels that Pit Bulls, above any other breed, can relate to being misunderstood, misrepresented, and alone just like many

Urban Paws Magazine 13

mutt mugs

“Dogs have a way of finding the people who need them, filling an emptiness we don’t even know we have.” - Thorn Jones

14 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

artist spotlight Artist Ron Burns Brings Images and Stories of Canine Sacrifice and Heroism to New 9/11 Memorial Museum in New York City Moving portrait of bomb detection dog, Sirius, who died on Sept. 11, and new book of ‘9/11 dogs’ spotlights the role canines play before, during, and after crisis

he 9/11 Memorial Museum, which

opens in New York at the site of the

Collins, Colorado-based artist Ron Burns.

“I am deeply honored that the painting was

World Trade Center on May 21, 2014,

selected to become part of the museum’s per-

that transpired on September 11, 2001, and in its

introduce a lot of people to the heroic role dogs

honors the many stories of heroism and tragedy

aftermath. One of those stories is of a devoted, highly trained dog who gave everything.

When the museum opens, visitors will learn of

manent collection because it’s an image that will

play at moments of national crisis,” says Ron Burns.

Ron Burns has spent decades capturing dogs

the greatest sacrifice made by Sirius, the bomb-

in all their moods. In contrast to much of his

Tower Two, through a portrait painted by Ft.

an electric color palate – the portrait Burns

detection dog, who died in the collapse of

16 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

celebrated dog portraiture – with lively eyes and

painted of Sirius is muted, elegiac and direct.

When Sirius’ remains were removed from

World Trade Center rubble, they were given the

same honors given firefighters and other rescuers, who lost their lives there too.

In his new book, “The Dogs of Ron Burns: A

Tribute to the Dogs of 9/11,” Burns honors what he calls “heroic dogs,” including the search-and-rescue, bomb-detection, therapy,

and guide dogs who support humans before, during and after times of terror and crisis, such

as the events of September 11. The new book

Everest, Search and Rescue - FEMA much of our daily experience still returns us to

the pain and anguish of that day, but Ron’s work elicits memories of human decency, sacrifice and compassion triumphing over depravity. His paintings are a reminder of the great contribution to humankind made by the humblest of God’s creatures. Ron’s work is a celebration of life, goodness and abiding friendship.”

Tickets to the Museum for visits when it opens

to the public on May 21 are available at 911memorial.org.

The National September 11 Memorial &

Hansen, Search and Rescue - NYPD will be available at the museum’s gift shop, at RonBurns.com

($19.95):

http://www.ron-

burns.com/book/ and at Amazon.com: and at Amazon.com: http://amzn.to/QADVr1

In the book’s foreword, Debra Burlingame,

Museum is the not-for-profit corporation creat-

ed to oversee the design, fundraising, program-

ming and operations of the Memorial and

Museum. The Memorial and Museum are locat-

ed on eight of the 16 acres of the World Trade Center site. Online visit: RonBurns.com and 911memorial.org/museum.

museum organizer and sister of Capt. Charles F.

“Chic” Burlingame, III, Pilot, American Airlines flight 77, writes, “I am deeply grateful to Ron for devoting a book to the dogs of 9/11. So Urban Paws Magazine 17

health & wellness

The Cost of Emergency Veterinary Care: The Importance of a Pet Safety Fund

orking as an emergency veterinarian

the facility, pay the overnight staff, and keep up

However, it can also be taxing when

have to be increased compared to a day prac-

can

extremely

rewarding.

we are faced with the predicament of money. It

is often the subject that veterinarians like least discussing due to the fact that it can be a barri-

er between the pet and the treatment it needs,

and it can be an area of extreme emotion for the

with the costs, the margins on services rendered tice. While we want to help your pet, if we do

not charge appropriately, our staff will not get

paid, our lights will not stay on, and we won't be able to offer any care at all.

owner. Unfortunately, it is one that must be

“Why can't you offer a payment plan?”

should be planned for by all owners.

everything a lot easier and a lot of new prac-

overcome for any treatment to take place and

“I thought you people were suppose to care about

Boy, do we wish we could. This would make tices may offer them. But it doesn't last. Unfortunately, too many people abuse them.

animals. All you care about is the money.”

The fact is we cannot do payment plans

once a night and it is painful each time. The fact

what they owed. It is in no way an accusation,

An emergency veterinarian will hear this at least

is, we do care more about the animals. We want to do all that we can for you and your pet. Unfortunately, that care is expensive. In today's

world, we are using the same technology and materials that are used in human medicine and

this is considered standard of care for your pet.

But those materials are priced for humans and their cost is unquestioned in that field because

insurance typically covers them. In human med-

icine, the catheter, IV set, and fluid pump costs are written off to the insurance company and

your co-pay stays at its normal amount.

However, in animal medicine, that cost must be directly relayed to the client. In addition, over-

head is extremely high in a 24/7 clinic. To run 20 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

because those that came before you did not pay but simply a mandated policy. Luckily, there are

still some ways help can be given. Care Credit is accepted at most emergency clinics. This is essentially a credit card for medical expenses and can provide the emergency cash needed in

these situations. There are also pet insurance companies. These work on the system of reimbursement, however, and the money up front will still be required from the owner.

“I can't pay for this surgery. What do you expect me to do?”

This is a hard one. Often, surgery is something that is necessary for the well-being of the pet and can be extremely expensive for the owner.

By: John Blakely, DVM, North Houston Veterinary Specialists

In these cases, it is common for owners to simply not be able to meet the costs that are

“How much is the damage?”

required for the surgery to be performed. It is

not wrong to say “no” to a $3000 surgery. No

not unreasonable to be facing something in the $2000-$3000 range with the more serious emer-

one will think that you're cruel. We will try to work with you to do what we can. If that is sta-

bilization until morning to see if your primary veterinarian can do the surgery at a lower cost,

or if it is humane euthanasia, we understand. Overall, my personal goal is always to do what-

Well, it depends on the problem. However, it is gencies and this is a good amount to be put aside for your pet. By planning for the worst,

you can help prepare for the best outcome pos-

sible for you and your beloved four-legged family members.

ever is in the best interest of my patient AND my client. What I want is for you to come out of

the situation feeling that you made the decision that was best for you.

Urban Paws Magazine 21

INTRODUCING the Urban Paws Magazine

Animal Advocate of the Year Award

This award will be given to a member of the

• Leadership

his/her achievements in advancing the welfare

• Education

Greater Houston community to recognize of animals through leadership, public service, lawmaking, education, research, or veterinary

service. The magazine’s purpose in bestowing this award is to encourage attention to animal

• Public Service • Research

• Lawmaking

• Veterinary Service

welfare in Houston and surrounding areas.

Nominations should include:

ognizing and thanking those who go out of

• Your name

Urban Paws Magazine believes in publicly rectheir way to improve the lives of animals.

Four finalists will be chosen by Urban Paws

• Nominee’s name and contact information

• “Animal Advocate of the Year Award” in the email subject line

Magazine and featured on the publication’s web-

• At least 300 words describing how your nomi-

decide the winner, who will be announced in the

nity, citing specific examples within at least

site and in the print magazine. Online voting will October 2014 issue. Recipients must be willing and available to participate in a photo shoot, be

interviewed and participate in other recognition activities.

Criteria for Qualification:

1) Nominee must live in the Greater Houston area of Texas.

2) Nominee’s work must contain specific examples of commitment to one or more of the following categories in animal advocacy: 22 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

nee has advocated for animals in our commuone of the key categories listed above

• Images, if available Nominations

should

emailed

jennifer@urbanpawsmagazine.com by June 1,

2014. Online voting will begin June 15, 2014 and

continue through August 31, 2014.

adoption Texas Gulf Coast Bull Terrier Rescue Contact Texas Gulf Coast Bull Terrier Rescue by email at: tgcbullterrierrescue@gmail.com www.texasbullterrier.org

Texas Gulf Coast Bull Terrier Rescue saves the lives of over 50 English Bull Terriers every year across the southern half of Texas and Louisiana. Their sister Club, The Bull Terrier Club of Dallas, rescues a similar number in the northern part of the State. All the bullies coming through the TGCBTR program have their veterinary needs taken care of and are evaluated in experienced foster homes for several weeks before being matched up with a suitable family. The Rescue works closely with their applicants to find the right Bull Terrier for their lifestyle, and the Rescue volunteers are there to help the new owners every step of the way.

Our cover dog, Candy!

Candy is currently in a foster home with several other dogs while she recovers from spay sur-

gery. She is coming along great

and thinks that she's queen of the

house! Candy surprised her foster mom by leaping onto the bookshelf from a standstill. That's a Bull Terrier for you!

Photos by Paw Prints by Jamie Pet Photography.

24 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

Kristina is betwen 3 to 4 years old and was found living on the streets of Houston over the winter. Within days of her arrival at the vetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office, Kristina gave birth to eight puppies! She has been in rescue for quite some time, as she had to first raise her babies, then concentrate on getting herself fit and healthy. She is very gentle around children and enjoys the company of other dogs, but much prefers to be loved and petted by the family. She is a darling girl!

Kristina Heather is an owner-surrendered dog who has lived happily with another dog in the home. She is very social with adults, children and other dogs and loves to play with water! At just a year old, she is ready to join a family who is prepared to invest a little training and plenty of exercise.

Heather

This sweet baby is less than a year old and was in poor condition when she came into rescue. With good food, some TLC and down-time in foster care, Shelley is now beginning to come around and is amusing everyone with her puppy antics!

Join us in helping our four-legged friends

Shelley

find loving homes. Adopt a dog today!

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