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IN THIS ISSUE
06
EVENT CALENDAR September 2012
07
THE SCOOP News and Happenings in the Houston Area
12
SPECIAL FEATURE Texas Humane Legislation Network’s 2013 Agenda
14
NUTRITION 4 Indoor Activities to Keep Your Dog Healthy and Fit
18
THINGS WE LOVE Editor’s Top New Product Picks
20 24
HEALTH & WELLNESS Squelch the Scratch: Relief in a Bowl for the Allergic Pet RESCUE & ADOPTION Houston Beagle & Hound Rescue
"Dogs are our link to paradise. They don’t know evil or jealousy or discontent. To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring–it was peace." 4 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
Photo by ChrisK Photography
~Milan Kundera
Editorial ummer has come to and end and the weather will soon be cooler, but that doesn’t mean Bowser can’t continue his exercise routine. Darlene Frudakis of PetAg.com offers some great indoor activities on page 14. In this issue, we feature the 2013 legislative agenda from the Texas Humane Legislation Network (THLN). THLN is a mainstream voice for the animals of Texas who suffer abuse and neglect at the hands of callous humans. To read the upcoming agenda, turn to page 12. Also in this issue, veterinarian Dr. Amy Dicke discusses how nutrition can play a prominent role in managing the clinical signs of allergies in dogs and cats. If you’re looking to scratch your
S
On the Cover
Issue 8: Volume 6 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
pet’s itch, read Dr. Dicke’s article on page 20. This month’s cover dog is Cronkite the Newshound from local radio station News 92 FM. Walter, a.k.a. Cronkite, is a rescued beagle from Houston Beagle and Hound Rescue. He recently made his debut at the Palace Lanes Bowling Alley for the Bowling for Beagles event. Turn to page 24 to learn more about Cronkite and the adoptable beagles from HBHR. The cooler weather is on its way and that means more outdoor time with your four-legged family members. Be sure to check out the event calendar for fun, pet-friendly events this month!
Jennifer Kitchens-Street
URBAN PAWS MAGAZINE P.O. Box 1556 Spring, Texas 77383 www.UrbanPawsMagazine.com Design and layout by: ZOECO CREATIVE © Copyright 2012. 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.
Cover photo by Simon Gentry
Please tell our advertisers that you heard about them in Urban Paws! Urban Paws Magazine 5
EVENT CALENDAR
September 2012 Events SEPTEMBER 1 Wonder Pet Expo Houston Legends Sports Complex, 602 Pruitt Rd in The Woodlands. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Join the fun with shopping, pet adoptions, entertainment and more. For more information, visit www.wonderpetexpohouston.com. SEPTEMBER 15 Stubbs Open House and Adoption Day Join S.A.V.E. Rescue Coalition and Stubbs Harley Davidson as they host 15 local rescue groups for this huge event. Music, food, motorcycles and adoptable pets. Raffle tickets are available for $20 and can be purchased Tickets are available at Stubbs Harley Davidson, 4400 Telephone, San Jacinto Harley Davidson, 3636 E. Sam Houston Pkwy, or Stubbs 59 Powersports, 10340 SW. Freeway. Or purchase online at www.saverescue.org/events. SEPTEMBER 16 Painting with a Twist Fundraiser Painting with a Twist, 12344 Barker Cypress Rd. Suite 200. 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Half of the proceeds from the event will benefit Tiny Paws Rescue and New Best Friend Rescue. For event registration, visit www.paintingwithatwist.com/events/viewEven t.aspx. SEPTEMBER 22 Boston Terrier Rescue Garage Sale 25318 Oakhurst Drive in The Woodlands. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For more information, contact qmindora@yahoo.com.
6 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
For a full listing of events, visit: www.urbanpawsmagazine.com/events
SEPTEMBER 24 Abandoned Animal Rescue’s 8th Annual Golf Tournament High Meadow Ranch Golf Club in Magnolia. 7:00 a.m. sign in; 8:00 a.m. shotgun start. Prizes will be awarded for top teams, longest drive and closest to the pin. The $125 entry fee includes a lunch buffet, green fee, cart, morning coffee, goodie bag and door prize drawing. For more information, email aar.events@gmail.com. For registration and sponsorship, visit www.aartomball.org and click on the golf tournament link. SEPTEMBER 29 Traders Village GPAH Garage Sale Benefiting Greyhound Pets of America Houston. To donate or volunteer, contact sandy@gpahouston.com. SAVE THE DATE: October 13 Second Annual Boxer Wine Walk Event For ticket information, visit www.houstonboxerrescue.org. SAVE THE DATE: November 11 Second Annual iWalk for Animals Raise money for the Houston SPCA to help provide services for over 100,000 animals in Houston by walking. No meeting location! People can walk with their special pet(s) alone or with their friends, family and colleagues anywhere they’d like. For more information, visit iwalkforanimals.org.
THE SCOOP
GOLF TOURNAMENT PROCEEDS WILL HELP FUND A NEW 7,500 SQ. FT. SPAY/NEUTER FACILITY
Abandoned Animal Rescue’s 8th Annual Golf Tournament will be held at High Meadow Ranch Golf Club in Magnolia on Monday, September 24th. This year's golf tournament proceeds will be dedicated to the fund supporting AAR's new 7,500 square foot dog facility and spay/neuter clinic that is currently under development. Abandoned Animal Rescue is a non-profit spay/neuter clinic, nokill shelter, and pet adoption center managed and maintained by an all-volunteer staff. To donate, visit www.aartomball.org. ZUKE’S NATIONAL ‘FUEL THE LOVE’ TOUR HITS THE ROAD Zuke’s, makers of all-natural performance pet treats, is hitting the road to host its first-ever Fuel the Love Tour. The Zuke’s tour celebrates active, healthy lifestyles inspired by the love, devotion and adventures of dog companionship. Beginning in late August, the three-month
long tour will make appearances at dog-friendly events across the Western United States with a pop-up sampling promotion and canine activities for dogs and their owners. Kicking off in Zuke’s home state of Colorado, the Fuel the Love Tour will make its first stop at the Bark and Bluegrass Festival in Fort Collins, Colo. on August 25. From there, the tour meanders to major cities and dog-attended outdoor events throughout Washington, Idaho, Colorado, Utah, Arizona, Texas, California and Oregon. Zuke’s tour highlights include a sampling bar, Camp Zuke’s doggie agility course, photo opportunities, and giveaways from tour sponsors. For a detailed and updated tour schedule, be sure to follow Zuke’s blog at: http://www.zukes.com/social/. YOUNG PROFESSIONALS GATHER AT HOUSTON’S PARKS BY YOU KICKOFF EVENT Parks By Young Professionals (PBYP) is a diverse coalition of Houstonians supporting Parks By You. Through community engagement and strategic outreach, PBYP will build support for the short-term goal of passing a November bond initiative and the long-term goal of transforming Houston by improving water quality, public health and safety and overall quality of life. This dynamic group of individuals held its kickoff event on the evening of Wednesday, July 18, at Mongoose Versus Cobra with over 300 people in attendance. Parks By You, a coalition of citizens, is organizing to increase access to and improve neighborhood parks and bayous in Houston.
Urban Paws Magazine 7
THE SCOOP The ultimate goal of Parks By You is simple—connect Houston’s bayous and green spaces, using a plan that’s over 100 years old, and create a greener Houston for us, and for future generations. And, in the bargain, more green space for Houston's dogs to run, play, and just be themselves! For more information, visit www.parksbyyou.org, or follow them on Twitter @parksbyyou. RON BURNS STUDIO UNVEILS ADOPTION APPRECIATION PROGRAM TO THANK ADOPTERS AND SUPPORT LOCAL ANIMAL SHELTERS Critically-acclaimed animal artist and philanthropist Ron Burns is excited to announce the launch of the Burns Adoption Appreciation Program. This unique program offers a 20% gift certificate good towards Ron Burns' limited edition art and books to anyone that adopts a pet from their local animal shelter. "It started out as this very simple idea to thank people for adopting a pet from their local shelter. Eventually, it evolved into a program that not only shows our appreciation for their support, but also creates adoption awareness" says Burns. When an Adoption Appreciation Certificate is redeemed, Ron Burns Studio donates an additional 20% of the adopter's total order in their name to the animal shelter that the pet was adopted from. To learn more about how you and your local animal shelter can participate in Burns Adoption Appreciation, please go to www.ronburns.com/adopt.
HOUSTON’S ALL NEWS RADIO STATION RECRUITS MASCOT FROM HOUSTON BEAGLE RESCUE The newest addition to the News 92 FM (KROI, 92.1FM) staff is a real newshound – one with four legs. Radio One’s all-news radio station has partnered with Houston Beagle and Hound Rescue to recruit a rescue dog who will serve as the new station mascot. The KROI newshound will be available for “personal appearances” and “pawtographs” at station functions around Houston. The News 92 programming and editorial staff will provide coverage of the newshound’s activities and new life, beginning with his “recruitment” and continuing through his training and development as an ambassador for the station. News 92 FM has secured an experienced caretaker for the newshound and is in the process of training handlers who will escort the dog at all station appearances and public events. Elizabeth Emery, Houston Beagle Rescue’s Events and Fundraising Chairman, says that the News 92 FM newshound–named Walter and awarded the nickname “Cronkite” for his new assignment–came to her organization when a family was about to take the dog to an animal shelter. “They had purchased him online from an out of state breeder as a Christmas present, and they didn’t realize what they were getting into,” Emery explains. “They were preparing to take him to a shelter when a relative said ‘You can’t do that,’ and took the dog from them and contacted Houston Beagle and Hound Rescue.” Cronkite” has lived with Emery and her collection of beagles – some hers, some fosters –
Follow us on FACEBOOK & TWITTER for the most up-to-date information, news and events!
8 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
THE SCOOP for the past three months as he prepares for his new duties. “He is now just over eight months old,” Emery says, “and he is a wonderful dog.” As part of its partnership with Houston Beagle and Hound Rescue, News 92 FM will provide a variety of on-air features including ongoing segments on pet care updates and safety as well as a “dog’s eye view of Houston” spotlighting pet-friendly events around the city “News 92 FM recognizes that the emotional bond between our listeners and their pets is a fundamental part of their lives,” says Radio One Houston General Manager Doug Abernethy. “The addition of a station newshound will certainly be fun for the staff and the listeners, but it will also allow us to draw attention to the important topics of pet adoption and pet care in Houston.” NEWSHOUND MAKES HIS FIRST PUBLIC APPEARANCE AT BOWLING FOR BEAGLES EVENT Walter, aka Cronkite, the News 92 FM Newshound, was introduced to the public on Saturday, August 18, during the Bowling for Beagles event at the Palace Lanes. The second annual Bowling for Beagles event was dedicated to Ron H. Smith, a Houston Beagle Rescue volunteer who lost his battle with cancer in 2011. Ron's mother, sister and best friends came to champion the beagles in his memory. Trophies were awarded for Highest Individual Score, Lowest Individual Score, Most Strikes in a Game, Best All Around Player, Highest Team Score and Lowest Team Score. Cronkite, the Newshound served as the master of ceremonies and kicked off the event. Urban Paws Magazine 9
ANIMAL RIGHTS Texas Humane Legislation Network: 2013 Legislative Agenda By Shanda Bailey, President-Southeast Texas Chapter Texas Humane Legislation Network
I
n preparation for the 2013 legislative ses-
Of equal importance, THLN will also be pre-
held regarding various animal welfare
existing animal cruelty laws such as: the existing
sion, many meetings and discussions were
issues that need to be addressed in Texas. After lengthy deliberation, THLN decided to pursue the below agenda. Determining our legislative agenda is never an easy task as there are so many
challenges for animal welfare in Texas. We are realistic about what we can accomplish with our limited human and financial resources and real-
ize we must also consider the very important issues we'll most likely have to defend.
pared to defeat any attempt to repeal or weaken
law prohibiting the slaughter of horses for human consumption; the existing law requiring
registration and regulation of commercial dog and cat breeders; and the existing law requiring the registration and regulation of owners of
dangerous wild animals. Lastly, THLN will monitor all animal related legislation and pre-
pare to support or oppose the same as needed to advance the welfare of animals.
THLN's 2013 Legislative Agenda:
As always, legislative sessions are a series of
monoxide gas as a means of euthanasia in Texas
support from the public and animal welfare
(1) Legislation to prohibit the use of carbon animal shelters, allowing only euthanasia by
injection. It is time for Texas to join the ranks of
many other states that have prohibited this outdated and inhumane form of shelter euthanasia.
uphill battles and our victories depend on full advocates throughout the state. Every single animal advocate has a voice and the animals need you now more than ever to make Texas a more humane state.
(2) Legislation to require the Texas Department
To learn more about THLN and animal law in
statutes governing animal shelters in Texas
annual statewide conference on September 28-
of State Health Services to enforce the existing including: the humane standards for quarantine and impound facilities; the training and certifica-
tion of animal control officers; the required
methods and protocol for the euthanasia of shelter animals; and the spay/neuter require-
ments for animals adopted from animal shelters. We have good laws currently governing our animal shelters, but there is virtually no enforcement. 12 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
Texas, please consider attending our fourth
29, 2012, in Austin. Our keynote speaker will be Ledy VanKavage, senior legislative attorney at Best Friends Animal Society. Please visit www.thln.org for more details.
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NUTRITION
N
4 Indoor Exercises to Keep your Dog Healthy and Fit
Keep your pet looking and feeling great this season ow that the leaves are slowly beginning to change and the fall weather is getting cooler, it will not be long before the winter months begin drawing us and our furry friends indoors for the remainder of the season. While the late part of the year is definitely a fun time for our pets–playing outside during the winter season, visiting with relatives over holiday breaks, sniffing out all of the different smells over Thanksgiving–our pets can suffer from the same seasonal blues that people often fall victim to. One of the biggest blues that comes along with the cold season is the weight gain that often occurs when you stop spending more time outside. While many dogs love to venture out into cold weather, they do not often get as much exercise as they are used to during the summer, yet they get the same amount of food. This typically results in a plump puppy or dog who has lost the spunk in his step. However, despite the fact that it’s as easy to stay indoors and be lazy when the weather turns cold, it is more important than ever to keep your dog exercising through the fall and winter months. Overweight pets are susceptible to the same types of life-shortening, chronic illnesses that humans can suffer from, such as heart disease, kidney disease, cancer, arthritis and diabetes. And given the fact that the Association for Pet Obesity estimates that more than half of all U.S. pets are overweight or obese, it’s your duty as a pet owner to ensure that your furry friend gets
14 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
By Darlene Frudakis, Owner of PetAg.com
the proper amount of exercise and activity that is necessary for their body in the colder months. Here are just a few ways in which you and your dog can stay healthy and keep fit indoors this fall and winter season.
Teach Them Advanced Tricks
As they say, you can never teach a dog too many tricks–and they are right! Not only are basic dog training commands a good way to stimulate your dog’s mind and build their basic skills and knowledge, but they also are a great bonding activity for you and your best friend. There are several different tricks that you can teach your dog indoors that will put some movement back into their lives. SPINNING: A good example of a dog trick that will really get your dog moving is spinning. This fairly simple trick will teach your dog how to spin in one direction, or you can even have them switch between spinning left to right. Be sure to start your dog off small and work their way up to spinning all the way around once they get the hang of it. BACKING UP: Not only is backing up a fun trick for dogs, it can also come in hand in your day-to-day activities. If you have a dog who tends to jump on people when they walk through the door, or crowd you when you are in the kitchen or laundry room, backing up will help you claim back your space. All you need is a few dog treats and a little bit of patience to get your dog the back up a few steps when they hear
the signal.
Play Tug of War
Many pet owners are unsure about playing tug of war with their dogs because they feel as thought the game may bring out aggressive behavior in their pets. However, this game is actually a great form of physical and mental exercise for your dog. The first thing you want to do when playing tug of war is to ensure that your dog is familiar with a release command such as, ‘drop” or “all done.” This way, if the game becomes too wild or out of hand, you can stop it if necessary. Also, it’s important to note tha if your dog’s teeth come in contact with you an any point–whether aggressively or accidentally–you should let out a cry and end the game for a few minutes. It is always important that your dog knows that they should be careful about where they are putting their teeth, even during play.
Find An Indoor Pet Center
If you have a large dog and do not have enough space to get quality exercise in your home, try locating an indoor pet center for your dog. Many of these centers are available across the U.S. and offer classes such as agility, pet yoga, canine play dates and even dog-friendly meet and greets for both pet and owner. Indoor agility courses are a great way to get your dog moving, while at the same time, building up their knowledge and basic command skills. Dog agility courses are also a great way to build your pet’s confidence, making them more adaptable at home and less afraid of unknown situations.
Play Hide and Seek
One favorite indoor activity for both pet and owner is a game of good old fashioned hide and
seek. This game cane be played several different ways and can involve multiple people and toys to keep your pet’s attention. When playing with toys, hide your pet’s favorite things in various spots around your home when they are not paying attention. Once everything is carefully hidden away in different spots, ask your dog to find each of them. They can be fooled for quite a while, while also getting exercise racing around and running throughout the house. You can also play this game with yourself and a friend. Try hiding in different spots of the house and call your dog once you are hidden out of sight. Once they have found you, reward them with a piece of dog food or their favorite treat, then have them find your friend. This will not only help to get in a good workout for your dog, but it’s a great bonding activity for the both of you. Urban Paws Magazine 15
THINGS
WE
LOVE
Editor’s top new product picks The Rubit (roo'-bit') Dog Tag Clip is a simple, stylish and secure clip that let's you swiftly transition tags to different collars. It’s tough enough to take years of trips to the dog park. www.rubitclip.com
Dress your pet in game day gear and support your favorite team! This officially licensed Houston Texans dog jersey is available in sizes S-XL. www.doggienation.com
Say goodbye to messy vitamins & expensive hard to swallow pills. K10+ provides an easy, convenient way to help your dog maintain optimum health. Simply tear open the packet, pour the powder into your dog's water bowl or bottle and mix with water. The K-10+ line includes a multi vitamin, calcium, glucosamine and omega 3. www.k-10plus.com 18 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
This new product is poised to revolutionize the way pet parents handle dog doody while they're on a walk. The Fifth Paw allows for safer walks and is easy for anyone in the family to use. It stays clean and tangle free and keeps hands and pockets doody free. www.thefifthpaw.com
The big mutt appeal is undeniable and so is this indigo blue classic fit tee. A portion of the proceeds from every product is donated to animal rescue programs. Available in sizes S-XXL. www.dogisgood.com
Leanlix is a low calorie dog reward system that will leave your dog drooling for more. Each Leanlix recipe has been carefully crafted, inspired by true life events and formulated by a leading professional in the pet industry. Available in 6 lip-smacking flavors. www.leanlix.com
Urban Paws Magazine 19
HEALTH & WELLNESS Squelch the Scratch: Relief in a Bowl for the Allergic Pet
D
By Amy Dicke, DVM
ogs and cats can be affected by the
ingestion. Regardless of the route of exposure,
members; however, instead of sneez-
organ for expression of the allergic reactions.
same allergies as their human family
ing, wheezing and watery eyes, allergic pets gen-
erally scratch, rub, lick and then scratch some
more. The head and neck area, the ears, and between the toes tend to be targeted, but anywhere there is skin can be affected. When scratching becomes intense and chronic it is
termed pruritus. Constant scratching and licking
can lead to hair loss, skin abrasion, inflammation
and infection, all of which can affect the pet’s quality of life and disrupt family harmony.
Eliminating the cause of an allergy is often unattainable; therefore, controlling the pet’s
in dogs and cats, the skin is the primary target This is true even when a food allergen is the cul-
prit. The most common allergic skin diseases are
a result of a pet’s sensitivity to fleas, environmental substances, or the protein fraction of food ingredients. Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI), one of the nation’s largest pet health
insurance companies, reports in their 2011 top ten list of medical conditions that skin allergy is
the 2nd most commonly reported medical con-
dition of dogs and the 9th most commonly reported condition of cats.
Allergic skin diseases can be complicated by
response becomes key to a successful outcome.
the fact that multiple allergens (flea, environ-
immune system to an offending substance called
ilar clinical symptoms. For example, it is estimat-
Allergies are simply an overreaction by the
an allergen. Exposure may occur via absorption
from the skin (transdermal), inhalation, or 20 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
ment, food) may be involved and all create simed that environmental (atopy) and food allergy
occur together in up to 30 percent of dogs and
cats with allergic skin disease.1 In addition to
In addition, the “summation effect” explains
pruritic skin disease, between 15 and 50 percent
why an animal who has a low-level response to
also show gastrointestinal signs such as diarrhea
completely normal, until the pet is exposed to
of dogs and cats with allergic food reactions
or vomiting.2-5 Similarly, patients who present with both pruritus and gastrointestinal signs are more likely to be diagnosed with food allergy dermatitis, which may be the result of more than a single food allergen.
Nutrition can play a prominent role in manag-
ing the clinical signs of allergies in dogs and cats by raising the pruritic threshold, reducing the allergen load, and supporting the integrity of the intestinal mucosa. Let’s take a more in-depth look at each of these nutritional roles. Raising the Pruritic Threshold
one or two mold allergens can appear to be new allergens, such as fleas. Taken separately,
the flea or mold allergy may not cause enough
discomfort to “scratch,” but the cumulative effect of the two allergies may cause the pet to exceed a clinical threshold, where the discom-
fort manifests in clinically noticeable symptoms. The pruritic load can be reduced by decreasing
exposure to environmental allergens, by treating
for fleas, by removing offending food ingredients from the diet, or using a combination of
these actions. In tandem, the pruritic threshold may be raised via several means.
Raising the pruritic threshold reduces the
The pruritic threshold refers to an individual
inflammatory response, allowing clinical signs to
tors that initiate scratching. Exposure to a level
teroids or antihistamines can help to reduce the
pet’s tolerance of allergic and non-allergic facof pruritic stimulatory factors that are below the threshold elicits no clinical signs. For example, a
pet may be sensitive to house dust mites and air-
borne mold, but not show any identifiable signs,
provided that the total quantity of allergens to which he is exposed does not exceed his prurit-
ic threshold. Conversely, exposure to a level of pruritic stimulatory factors above the pruritic
subside. Systemic medications such as corticos-
inflammation caused by environmental or flea allergies. A nutritional approach involves modi-
fication of the types of fatty acids included in
the food to help raise a pet’s pruritic threshold. The type of fat that is included in a diet that is formulated for allergic skin disease is an important consideration.
Two major classes of fatty acids, the omega-6
threshold initiates clinical signs. If the same pet
and omega-3 fatty acids have key roles in mod-
the level of already present factors is increased
acids are incorporated into the cell membranes
is exposed to additional stimulatory factors or
it could exceed the pet’s threshold and clinical signs become evident. The point at which a pet begins to itch and scratch indicates a summation
of events, each of which contributes independently to the cascade of discomfort that the pet
is experiencing. It is important to recognize that pruritic thresholds are unique to each pet.
erating the inflammatory response. Omega fatty in the same ratio as they are dietarily consumed.
When there is damage to the cell, these omega fatty acid types are released into the surrounding
tissues. Omega-6 fatty acids, found in terrestrial plants like corn and safflower, proceed along a
biochemical pathway that result in the production of tissue compounds that play a major role
Urban Paws Magazine 21
in inflammation. The omega-3 fatty acids, found
in fish and a few terrestrial plants like flax, follow a pathway that results in products that are
less inflammatory. Both of these pathways utilize and consequently compete for the same
enzymes. Thus, increasing the proportion of
omega-3 fatty acids competitively inhibits the metabolism of the omega-6 fatty acids and pro-
duces a less inflammatory response. Dietary
manipulation of the omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid balance or ratio can contribute to raising a
pet’s pruritic threshold by modifying the types of inflammatory mediators that are produced in
the skin. A dietary balance of omega fatty acids targeting a 5:1 ratio has been shown to modulate inflammation, reduce clinical signs and improve the comfort level of the pet.
Nutritionally Reducing the Allergen Load
Simultaneous to raising the pruritic threshold nutrition can at times play a role in managing
allergic skin disease by reducing the allergenic load. For pets with allergies, reducing the aller-
gen load means reducing their exposure to identified allergens. These may include tree and grass pollens, house dust mites, molds, and, of course,
fleas. In addition to controlling the pet’s access to outdoor areas that may contain allergens, frequent bathing can also help to reduce time of
exposure and the degree of skin penetration of allergens. For pets with food allergy, dietary
changes that can effectively reduce the allergen
load include feeding a food that contains a lim-
ited number of protein and carbohydrate ingredients and these ingredients would be considered novel in regards to the pet’s dietary con-
sumption history. Depending on the individual, the food may include protein sources such as 22 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
fish, lamb or kangaroo and carbohydrate sources such as barley, oats, or potato. Healthy Intestinal Mucosal Integrity
Another nutritional role is the support of the integrity of the intestinal mucosa. The wall or
lining of the digestive tract is the largest surface of the body exposed to possible environmental
and food antigens. As part of the gastrointestinal tract lining, the mucosa barrier is a key
defense mechanism against the invasion of allergens. A healthy mucosal barrier defense responds to normally encountered allergens and deals with them appropriately.
Conversely, impairment of the intestinal
mucosa defenses predisposes the dog or cat to allergy, especially food allergy. When there is dis-
ruption of the normal intestinal mucosal barri-
er, such as during inflammatory disease or malnutrition, food antigens are more likely to be
absorbed intact, which increases the risk of developing food allergy.
Intestinal health and integrity can be support-
ed by dietary inclusion of specialized fibers
including moderately fermentable fibers, such as beet pulp to support intestinal cell health and
prebiotics, such as fructooligosaccharides (FOS)
to help optimize intestinal microbial popula-
body’s immune response has been studied
Although fiber cannot be digested by any dog
70% of the body’s immune system is found in
tions.
or cat stomach acid and enzyme, bacteria in the gut are capable of digesting certain types of
fiber through the process of fermentation,
using the fiber as an energy source. Important
by-products of this fermentation include shortchain fatty acids, such as lactic, acetic, propionic
extensively. It is now known that approximately
the gastrointestinal system. Normal bacterial
populations in the digestive tract are theorized to be an essential component of the immune
response by interacting with key immune regulating cells.
As a fermentable fiber the prebiotic FOS not
and butyric acids. Short chain fatty acids, espe-
only feeds the beneficial bacteria it releases
source for the intestinal cells. Through this
providing an energy source for intestinal cells,
cially butyric acid, are the preferred energy process, moderately fermentable fibers, such as
beet pulp directly “feed the gut” by supplying a source of short-chain fatty acids. In addition to
short chain fatty acids during its fermentation which in turn helps to maintain robust functioning of the mucosal barrier.
Nutrition can play a prominent role in manag-
providing energy to intestinal cells, short-chain
ing the clinical signs of allergies in dogs and cats.
increasing blood flow to the gut, enhancing cell
incorporates: the inclusion of omega-3 fatty
fatty acids also benefit the digestive tract by proliferation, promoting normal peristalsis and
enhancing electrolyte and fluid balance. Together, these effects promote intestinal
integrity and a healthy intestinal mucosal barrier. Prebiotics are often confused with probiotics.
A prebiotic is a fiber, while a probiotic is a viable
bacteria source. Unlike probiotics, prebiotics, such as FOS target the beneficial bacteria that
are already present within the gastrointestinal tract, acting as a food source for these favorable microbes and providing health benefits to the host animal. It is important to promote resident beneficial bacteria for several reasons. First, their presence contributes to the natural defense barrier in the digestive tract by maintaining an
optimal balance among bacterial populations.
Beneficial species compete with potentially pathogenic bacteria for luminal substrates and
attachment sites on the gut wall. In recent years,
the importance of intestinal bacteria to the
Dietary management of allergic skin disease
acids and an adjusted omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio, which functions to raise the pruritic threshold by altering the amount and type of
inflammatory mediators that are produced in skin; reduction of the allergen load through the
use of novel ingredients such as kangaroo, oats and potato; and the inclusion of a specialized blend of the moderately fermentable fiber, such
as beet pulp and the prebiotic FOS to support intestinal mucosal integrity and reduce harmful allergen exposure through the digestive tract.
Dr. Amy Dicke has over 14 years of experience as a Technical
Services Veterinarian with The Iams Company / P&G Pet Care, with expertise in nutritional consultation and technical
communications. Prior to her role at P&G, Dr. Dicke was a
private practitioner in Southern Ohio for 15 years, where she provided wellness and disease state medical care for farm ani-
mals and pets. Dr Dicke is currently involved with various associations including: the American Veterinary Medical
Association, American Association of Feline Practitioners, and American Academy of Veterinary Nutrition.
Urban Paws Magazine 23
RESCUE & ADOPTION Join us in helping our four-legged friends find loving homes. Adopt a dog today!
Houston Beagle and Hound Rescue www.houstonbeaglerescue.org
Houston Beagle and Hound Rescue, Inc. (HBHR) is a non-profit 501(c)3, all-volunteer organization dedicated to beagle and hound rescue. They are a small group of volunteers who foster dogs in their homes. There is no shelter facility. HBHR provides placement assistance to shelters and individuals who need to find homes for hounds which, for various reasons, have become stray or homeless. Their goal is finding homes for the dogs with families who want to continue the mission of giving the neglected dogs a second chance. HBHRs long-term goal is to educate the public regarding the tragic pet over-population problem in the U.S. and around the world so that rescue will one day no longer be needed.
Our cover dog, Cronkite!
You can follow Cronkite on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/News92FMNewshound and on Twitter at: http://www.twitter.com/92newshound. 24 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
Walter was awarded the nickname “Cronkite” for his new assignment–the newshound for News 92 FM. He came to Houston Beagle and Hound rescue when a family was about to take him to an animal shelter. He was purchased online from an out of state breeder as a Christmas present. The family didn’t realize what they were getting into. As they were preparing to take him to a shelter, a relative took the dog from them and contacted HBHR. “Cronkite” has lived with HBHR’s Events & Fundraising Chairman, Elizabeth Emery and her collection of beagles – some hers, some fosters – for the past three months as he prepares for his new duties. “He is now just over eight months old,” Emery says, “and he is a wonderful dog.”
Please note that these dogs may have been adopted by the time you visit them; however, there are many more wonderful dogs in need of forever homes.
Mindy
Zack is a 2 year old, tri-colored male who was rescued from a local shelter. He is a super-sized boy that may have a little coon hound in his blood. He is full of energy and craves a lot of attention. Zack is housebroken and crate trained, but has had minimal training. He’s a smart guy though and an eager student.
Brandi This beautiful gem is Diamond. She is a 7 year old girl recently rescued from a shelter in Waco. She is a sweet, lovable dog who would be good as a single dog or with an older dog. Diamond is crate trained and well behaved on a leash. She loves to take walks. As an adult dog, she would do best in a home with children over the age of 6 and with mature dogs. If you love a priceless gem, Diamond is for you!
Mindy is a petite, 4 year old girl and only weighs 16 pounds. She may be tiny, but she doesn’t know it. Once she establishes that she is a pure alpha dog, she gets along with other dogs. She loves to cuddle and is a real lover. Mindy is quiet and doesn’t bark at all. She is crate trained, housebroken and walks great on a leash. She is a good age for a family looking for a companion that likes to play, but won’t get into everything.
Zack Brandi is a happy, easy-going girl who is about 8 years old. After her owner passed away, she was rescued by HBHR. Don’t let her white face fool you - she still has a lot of spunk! Naps are her favorite pastime, but she also likes playing with toys, going for walks and car rides. Brandi has perfect house manners and never needs to be crated. When it’s time to eat, she will talk to you the whole time, asking you to please hurry!
Diamond
Urban Paws Magazine 25
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Urban Paws Magazine supports local, non-profit organizations that ensure our four-legged friends are cared for. We encourage you to adopt, not shop.
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