Thank you Kansas City for helping us serve 30,000 pets this year.
Donate Give online at GreatPlainsSPCA.org to support our lifesaving mission.
Locations in Merriam, KS and Independence, MO
®
SM
®
Camp Bow Wow Olathe
Camp Bow Wow Lee’s Summit
November 2013
6
Articles 5 Turkey Gobblers Recipe 6
50 First Dates
8
Love Means Never Saying “Bad Dog”
12 Is a FREE Puppy Really FREE?
12
15 From Trailer Park to Movie Trailer
15
16 H yaluronic Acid — for Your Dog’s and Cat’s Joint Health 18 Second Chance Pet Adoptions 20 Breed of the Month 22 What Happened to Fluffy? 24 Andie, My Therapy Dog
26 28
26 Obesity in Cats 28 Chips Next Adventure 32 Pawzzle 34 Pet Services Directory
Happy Holidays! It is fun to gather everyone together to give thanks. Thanksgiving is an American tradition that we can all enjoy! In this issue we have several articles worth reading and sharing with others! When you make preparations for your holidays, remember to make plans for your pets. This might include buying a special “holiday” meal or Turkey Gobblers (recipe on page 5), purchasing treats to keep your pet occupied while you celebrate the holiday, hiring a pet sitter so your pet can stay at home while you are out of town, or reserving a spot at your favorite boarding facility. By making sure your pet’s holiday is special, everyone will enjoy this special time. New Pet at Home? Have you just added a pet to your household? Take time and spend it with her. If it is a dog, enroll her in training classes. Take time to socialize her. Buy some toys. Take time to make sure her addition will be a success. After all, isn’t that why you added a pet to your family? If you are thinking about adding a pet to your family, take time to plan out the addition. Make sure you add the right pet to your family. Do you want a dog? What Publisher Barbara Riedel barbara@metropetmag.com Editor/Production Manager Dan O’Leary editor@metropetmag.com Magazine Layout ROI Marketing 816.942.1600 • roi@kc.rr.com
type of breed do you want or need? Are you committed to taking the dog out for walks, even during the wintertime? Do you have enough money to afford all the costs of the pet? By planning ahead, you will save time, reduce your frustration, and have a much more successful situation. Check out the article on “Free Puppy” on page 12. for more details. In the end, you might decide that after the holidays may be a better time to add a new pet to your family. More Great Articles This month we feature the Second Chance rescue group. This is a great group which has some wonderful pets available for adoption. Check out the informative article about hyaluronic acid – a chemical our pets and humans already have in our bodies. Don’t miss the heart-warming article on Trio — a three-legged dog who went from the trailer park to a movie trailer! Finally, check out the article on Andie, the therapy dog. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving – see you in December! Be Thankful for Your Pets! Sincerely,
Barbara Riedel, Publisher
P.S. Please remember to tell our advertisers that you saw their ad in MetroPet magazine. They make this magazine possible.
Advertising Sales Ad Sales: 913.548.1433 Deals of the Week deals@metropetmag.com Contact MetroPet PO Box 480065 Kansas City, MO 64148 Phone: 913.548.1433 Fax: 913.387.4313
Contributing Authors Mike Deathe Pat Hennessy Pawlean Journe Heddie Leger Chris Mohler Nancy Piper Mary Sellaro Cindy Schmidt Cheryl Waterman
Publishing Policy: Articles printed in the MetroPet Magazine express the opinions of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the formal position of MetroPet Magazine. Acceptance of advertising does not necessarily constitute endorsement by MetroPet Magazine. Articles: Readers are invited to submit articles for consideration for publication to editor@metropetmag.com. All materials are subject to editorial review. © 2013 MetroPet Magazine. All rights reserved. Request reprint permissions at info@metropetmag.com. MetroPet Magazine is owned and published by ROI Marketing Services, all rights reserved. 4
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
Thanksgiving Turkey Gobblers Makes 24 tempting, tantalizing turkey treats.
Ingredients: 1 cup ground turkey 2 cups white flour 1 cup cornmeal 1 egg 3 tbsp vegetable oil ¾ cup water 2 tsp tarragon
Directions:
• Preheat oven to 375 degrees. • In a frying pan, cook ground turkey, crumble into small pieces and set aside on a paper towel. • Combine flour and cornmeal in a large bowl, then in a separate bowl, beat egg, oil, and water, then add tarragon. • Add dry ingredients to wet and mix well. Fold in ground turkey and mix again. • Turn dough out on a lightly floured surface and knead until thoroughly mixed together. Roll our dough to ½ inch thick and cut out shapes. • Place on a greased baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until firm. Cool and serve. Keep any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
www.metropetmag.com | November 2013
5
50 First Dates by Mike Deathe
OK, so you have a puppy and you want your little ball of fur to grow up and be the perfect pet dog, right? You have already picked out your veterinarian, bought all of the supplies, and even lined up a trainer for a puppy class. Well, good for you! You have made a great start. Now, I am going to let you in on a little known secret. I call it “50 first dates” and it is absolutely critical to do with your pup before the age of 20-25 weeks. Why 20-25 weeks? Well that is the age when puppies leave the social development stage of their short little lives. After that they become less apt to accept new things, and to associate them in a positive way. This is not to say that a dog past 20 to 25 weeks cannot be taught,
6
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
but from the age of, let’s say eight weeks to 20 weeks, a dog is complete and total sponge, and you should use that time to your advantage. In the last several years, there have been an increase in dogs that are shy, anxious, and even a little fearful of strange people. It has actually led to an increase in aggression, and in some cases dog bites. So this article is not only an explanation of a possible reason for this trend, but a common sense approach to training puppies that anyone one can utilize to teach dogs that strangers are awesome and they even bring presents! Back to “50 first dates.” Well, it is pretty much what it sounds like. Your dog must meet at least 50 new people every week during this critical socialization period, and there is a specific way to meet these folks, But the bigger question is, how on God’s green earth are you going to find 50 people a week? Well the answer is simple. Go to a PetSmart or Petco and just walk your pup into the store. Let’s face it, puppies are adorable and everyone is going want to say hello to your little ball of fur. Practice 30 minutes a day two to three days a week and, trust me, 50 people will not be a hard number to hit. Now, what about the argument that until your pup is 100% vaccinated you should not take the dog out in public? Well, I am going to give you my opinion, and then you should go directly to your vet with this article in your hand and let your vet be the deciding vote. This is really outdated thinking. The social developmental period in dogs is so small that waiting until the dog is four to six months old (finished with all rounds of shots) to begin socializing is just crazy. Now understand me. A couple of things do need to happen before the “50 first dates” game begins:
1. The first round of shots need to be given. 2. You need to take the pup somewhere that is cleaned regularly. This negates the dog park and other places where lots of dogs poop and pee, and never get a good thorough cleaning. 3. The younger the dog and the fewer the rounds of vaccines they have received. You might just put the dog in the shopping cart to keep it off the ground. OK, so you are at the store and your first person walks up and says, “Oh what an adorable dog, can I say hello?” This is where the magic happens. You say, “Absolutely, but I need your help.” Give the stranger a treat (maybe some tiny cut up hot dog or cheese), and ask the stranger to do three things: 1. Ask the dog for a sit. (You will have teach this command at home.) 2. Give the pup the treat. 3. Then pet the dog. Voila! You have just completed your first of “50 first dates.” Now just repeat 49 more times and keep doing it until the dog reaches approximately 20 weeks of age. I actually include this as homework for all my puppy clients and you would be blown away by how it changes a dog’s perspective on those people they meet daily, but don’t live with. Let’s face it, you are teaching your dog three very important things: 1. To meet anyone my butt has to be on the ground. (This keeps us from learning to jump up on people.) 2. That strangers bring presents, and I love people. 3. Human touch is a good thing and is always rewarded. Aren’t these things you already wanted your pooch to learn? I it also gets you and Fido out of the house together. I love this exercise, and I think if you give it a chance, you will too. It is not a guarantee that your dog will be perfect, but as with all things, the more you work with your dog the better the dog will be around people. So go out and start to setting up some blind dates!
www.metropetmag.com | November 2013
Mike Deathe is an avid pet lover who found his passion as a dog trainer. Since 2008 he has trained hundreds of pet parents on how to live with their companion animals. He writes the Keep It Simple Stupid dog blog (K.I.S.S.) and is a resident expert for Petocracy. Deathe authored The Book of Pee and Poop, and Forever Home — Dog 101 and How to be a Better Shelter Volunteer. Follow Deathe’s blog at @http://muttzmembers. blogspot.com/ or the website @ www. kissdogtraining.com
7
Love Means Never Having to Say, By Pat Hennessy
“BAD DOG”
Our animals don’t come out of the box with instructions, but instructions are not out of reach. We love our animal companions; they are family members. When you have a child you teach right from wrong. You might say, “Yes, and I get frustrated and fuss at them when they don’t practice what they learn.”
Learn How to Teach Pets
Humans have a couple of advantages: we can process language in a different way to accelerate learning, and we have a different level of cognitive function. (Studies are finding that dogs have a higher level of cognitive function than previously assumed.) So, you might expect a child to comprehend faster and, therefore, comply. However, it is not that difficult to teach our canine companions because
their cognitive function is tied to basic principles of learning. Once you get in the habit of using these principles, it will make both of your lives easier. It would be similar to bringing home a foreign exchange student, with neither of you knowing the other ones’ language, and you have to communicate through symbols and body language. You would begin by teaching each other simple words while pointing at objects or acting out gestures (like charades) – and this is nothing more than pairing language with objects or concepts (learning by association).
Using A Positive Teaching Method
You teach animals in a comparable way, only adding rewards (or withholding rewards) for them to learn the rules of the house. If you use positive training methods and make it fun, they will have a positive “learned” connection with the behaviors that you want, or ask for on-cue. Once they learn what you desire of them in situations where they have the positive association, they will behave as you expect in those situations of their own free will. You will have a much happier home if your dog is doing what you want him to do, as part of his daily routine, because you have taught him. As I frequently say, “You can’t teach away from what you don’t want, but you can teach toward what you do want.” You can shape behavior by pairing (or associating) a reward or deterrent with a behavior. A reward will increase the behavior, while a deterrent will decrease the 8
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
behavior. The deterrent should not involve fear or force. (First, you must “do no harm”, and second, you want to continue to engage the learning process, as the brain will shut down when fear or pain is involved.) The deterrent may depend on the behavior that you are modifying or shaping. For example, when the undesired behavior is jumping on you. You have to take a look at the cause of this behavior. If you turn your back on your dog when he jumps on you and it does not decrease the behavior, it may be that your dog enjoys jumping on you. Therefore, you will need to try a different approach, such as stepping forward toward him when he jumps on you so that you take up his personal space. It will throw him off balance causing him to go back down on all four feet. The movement itself forces him down and achieves the desired result. However, pair that movement with the word “off,” then as soon as he gets all four feet on the ground, ask for a “sit.” When you pair the sit with a reward, you are starting to shape a behavior that you want.
www.metropetmag.com | November 2013
Teaching Good Behavior
Love means never having to say, “Bad dog,” not because your canine companion doesn’t do things that displease you, but because you have taught him what you expect. If he makes a mistake, you have the patience and compassion to teach him the difference, and the knowledge to recognize that the behavior was within your boundary of responsibility. We (the humans) are the reason our animal companions behave in ways that we want to reprimand. Undesired behavior occurs when we have: •n ot taught an alternative/acceptable behavior; • r einforced the behavior by allowing/ignoring it; or •n ot managed the environment appropriately (e.g. blocking off areas or placing items out of reach).
9
Now you may say, “But I taught the behavior I wanted and have seen my dog do it, so why does he misbehave sometimes?” You have to ask yourself in those situations, “How well does my dog really know the behavior?” Maybe he needs a bit more practice. If that is not the case (and you are sure he knows it – by performing it 100% of the time even if you are not with him), then you have to look for other triggers of the behavior. Maybe your dog does just fine most of the time, sleeps off and on all day while you are gone, and you normally arrive to an unblemished home. Then one day you came home to find a torn up sofa pillow. You didn’t think much about it, until it happens again. You will need to think outside the box and see if you can figure out why he tore up the pillow. Maybe you had a UPS delivery both times when it occurred.
10
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
Maybe there was a thunderstorm both times. There was certainly a trigger for the behavior.
A Little Detective Work
Any time your companion animal displays a behavior that is out of the ordinary, you will need to do a little bit of Sherlock Holmes detective work. If your dog began to urinate in the house (or your cat started eliminating outside the litter box), you would want to get a veterinary assessment to determine if there was a medical reason for the behavior. If there are no health issues, then you will begin your research into the possible causes for the new behavior. It could be something as simple as an outside animal on your premises that is triggering the response, or something as unnoticeable as a school bus stopping close by every afternoon. Whatever behaviors you get from your companion animals are behaviors that you actively shaped or trained
by default. You either allowed the conduct by not redirecting it into a desired behavior, or they learned by observation and interaction from fellow kin. Our animal companions are just furry and feathered bundles of joy waiting to be molded into harmonious family members. They are our pallet to paint. We owe it to them, as we make a life-time (their life-time) commitment to them. We should practice the vow of love, honor, and cherish until death do us part – and it is within our power (as knowledge is power) to never have to say, “Bad dog.”
Pat Hennessy is the founder of N2paws, LLC, an organization that provides a holistic approach to companion animal care through behavior education, energy work, and positive training methods. Pat is a Level 2 TTouch® practitioner, CPDT, ACDBC, and member of the IAABC, IAATH and AWA. You may contact N2Paws via email pat@n2paws.com, phone 816-5227005, or visit the website www.n2paws.com.
October Pawzzle Answers
11
Is a FREE Puppy Really FREE? By Mary Sellaro
Are you thinking about adding a dog or a puppy to your family? Sharing one’s life with a dog is, for the most part, a wonderful experience. However, many people are blinded by the thought of a cute puppy or a dog companion. As with anything, there are certain aspects which must be carefully thought out to make sure the “wonderful experience” is going to last for the dog’s lifetime.
The First Step
The first step is to put together a plan. Consider the financial aspect and responsibilities of having a pet, to help you determine if having one now is the right time.
AID ANIMAL HOSPITAL 816.363.4922
HELPING PETS LIVE
LONG
HEALTHY LIVES
• Full Service Veterinary Care • Stem Cell Therapy • Acupuncture • Laser Therapy • Surgery • Dental • Boarding
COMBINING WESTERN MEDICINE WITH A HOLISTIC VIEW
FOLLOW US ON
John E. Rowe, DVM, CVA
8343 Wornall Rd, KC, MO • aidanimalhospital.com 12
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
After you have decided that now is the right time, decide where you will get the pet. There are several options, shelter, rescue group, or a responsible breeder. Will you select an adult, adolescent or an infant? Is a cat, dog, or other animal the best fit for you and your family. Do you want a male or a female? Do you want a mixed breed or a purebred? What about the size - large, small or medium? How about energy level? What length of coat? A person’s lifestyle, living space (including outside area) are crucial factors in deciding what kind of pet you select. So, how does one decide, and where do the answers come from for a successful match?
Gather Lots of Information
There is an abundance of information available on the Internet, however, do not use that as your only source of information. Your best bet is to talk with trainers, veterinarians, shelter staff, rescue people, pet owners, and breeders. If you are interested in a particular breed mix or breed, ask specific questions. Not all breeds are compatible with every lifestyle. And, there are good and bad features in every breed or mix. There are also genetic concerns and health issues in every breed. It is best to gather lots of information before you choose a new pet. If you decide to get a puppy or dog from a breeder, check to make sure the dog has been tested for any physical problems and has been cleared or graded appropriately for breeding. Also know, acceptable color, coat patterns and the appropriate size for the breed you have chosen. Many times, unethical breeders will try to pass off a dog or puppy as “rare” and will charge more as this sometimes appeals to the unsuspecting pet owner.
What About the Costs?
One of the many things to consider prior to getting a pet is the cost. Can you afford to care for one? Following the initial cost of the pet, there are many expenses that include basic needs such as food, vet visits, which may include: a spay or neuter, vaccinations, a heartworm test and preventative, a fecal check for internal parasites, flea preventative, and monthly medications, if needed. In some areas, a city license is required when the puppy turns six months of age. There are recurring monthly expenditures which include, and may not be limited to, food, heartworm and flea preventative, medication refills for medical conditions, and grooming visits. Yearly expenses are comprised of veterinary exams and vaccinations, dental cleanings and a city license. As a puppy grows, collars and crates will need to be changed to accommodate growth spurts comfortably. It is also important to have the monetary ability to care for the pet in an emergency, illness or surgery. If guardians find they are unable to care for their pet due to circumstance, illness or death, provisions need to be made to insure their pets’ care is continued.
space”. A second crate or a seatbelt may be needed for car travel. The dog’s personal belongings include a collar, identification tag, leash, food and water bowls, bed, treats and toys, different types for playing and chewing. Home expenses may also include fencing, a doghouse, a covered, secure outdoor run, or a doggie door. Dogs love to roll in stinky stuff so
a plan needs to be in place on how to keep your dog clean and smelling fresh both in a malodorous 911 situation and on a regular basis. Do you have the facilities at home to bathe your dog? If the answer is no, a self service dog wash, professional groomer, boarding or daycare facility or veterinary hospital will be a necessary resource. Aside from needing to be kept clean, the dog will need to be brushed, have nails
Another factor in researching expenses is the gear needed for home and travels, both in and out of town. A crate, exercise pen, and/or baby gates will be needed for confinement, to prevent chewing, promote housebreaking, and give the dog “his own www.metropetmag.com | November 2013
13
trimmed and teeth brushed. If grooming can be done at home, basic supplies include dog shampoo, brush, nail trimmers, toothbrush and toothpaste for dogs. If the dog has hair which requires grooming, or if bathing or nail trims cannot be performed at home, weekly or monthly visits to the groomer will need to be budgeted. Do you have any vacations planned? Will the dog travel with you or stay at home? Do you travel for work? Where will the dog stay or who will take care of him while you are out of town? In the case of an emergency, where would your pet stay? Whether you are new in town or going on vacation, selecting the right pet care provider for your pet is an important decision. Leaving our pets in the care of another can often be an uncomfortable thought. However, taking the time to research and do some preliminary homework, can help to alleviate any lingering doubts. So, where to start? A good place to begin your search for a care provider is asking for referrals from friends, family members and co-workers, who are like-minded pet owners. Also your veterinarian. These are people we can trust to be reliable sources for locating pet care options. The Internet can be a convenient way to search for pet care. The drawback is it is very easy to be misled if you rely solely on websites, Internet pictures or reviews. Simply put, if it sounds or looks too good to be true, it probably is. An Internet search can be a useful in gaining information; however, it should not be relied upon as the main resource in making a final decision. Between asking friends, relatives and co-workers and researching the Internet, you will have several sources to help you. How will the dog or puppy spend their day? Do you work from home or will arrangements need to be made to allow for bathroom breaks during the time you are gone? How long is the dog going to be alone during the 14
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
day? Dogs need plenty of exercise, and the need is not optional and is not based on the amount of time you have to provide it. In the case of a busy schedule, to prevent boredom and to provide socialization, doggie daycare or a dog walker is an excellent option. Regardless, if you picture your dog’s manners as Marmaduke, Lassie or something in between, a wellbehaved dog is happier and easier to live with and has a higher chance of living life out with their original families. A good dog trainer is an invaluable resource, and obedience training will provide the tools needed for a first rate relationship. Take the time to interview potential trainers and get referrals from people whom you trust and whose dogs behave in a manner you admire. Keep in mind, training will only be successful if you practice with the dog on a daily basis and provide structure, consistency and mental stimulation. When the time is taken to research everything involved in the commitment of having a dog, it is not only the monetary aspect which needs to be considered. There must be a commitment for the life of the pet to provide time, love, consistency, and stability.
Mary Sellaro has been training dogs since 1990. She has taught group and private lessons from puppy through advanced. Mary has also worked with dog owners on behavioral issues, including aggression. She developed and implemented a training class program for Retired Greyhounds as Pets. Mary has been the temperament test evaluator for the Children’s Mercy Hospital’s Pet Pal Program since 1997. Mary is now the Director of Training for Pooches Paradise Daycare and Resort in the Waldo area of Kansas City. Mary is a certified American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. She can be reached at 816-361-3388.
From Trailer Park to Movie Trailer The exact history of this spitfire named Tito is a mystery. He came from a rural Missouri town, where he had a hard time of it in the first part of his life. He lived under a mobile home, from which the tenants claimed to NOT own him. It is known that the kids that lived in this mobile home were not nice to him. They put him on the roof of this trailer and he was forced to jump off the roof. He broke his right front leg. Trio had to feed himself and he lived off the land. He suffered with this broken leg for 5 years. The Animal Patrol officer in the town tried many times to catch him, to help him have a better life, but even with three legs he was very fast. He still is fast! Finally, one day when the officer was driving by, she saw a young boy holding Trio. She asked him if she could hold his dog. He replied “It’s NOT my dog, but yes you can hold him.” When officer finally had Trio in her arms, he took off. She knew Trio would find a great home with someone, and took him to Wayside Waifs. And he did. When Trio came into Wayside Waifs, we knew we had to amputate his leg at the shoulder, because it had been broken for so long. I volunteer in the vet clinic and was present for the surgery. When Trio woke up, everyone had gone to lunch but me. I sat with him in his kennel while he was waking up. He was crying badly. He put his head on my lap and looked up at me with a look I had never seen in any dog ever. A look that said, “Please love me. Please help me.” He stopped crying. That was all it took, I was hooked on this Chihuahua. Never having owned a small dog before, I knew this was a very special boy. We thought we were going to have to teach him how to walk and how to go up and down stairs. NOPE. He instinctively knew all this already. He is unlike ANY Chihuahua I had ever met. He never meets a stranger: he likes everyone right off the bat. He is not possessive, as are some Chihuahuas, which are one person dogs. He now has a loving home, with two sisters, another Chihuahua and a Pointer mix, to keep him company. Trio taught himself to open the back screen door, with just his nose, to let himself out. Yes, his nose. He loves to travel in the car. When he is thirsty in the car, he knows where the water bowl is under the seat and he pulls it out when he wants a drink. Just on a lark, a movie production company called Wayside Waifs looking for 3 legged dogs for a scene in a movie they were making. Since everyone there knows Trio and me, they gave me the info and I called them. We filmed several scenes the summer of 2012. While editing www.metropetmag.com | November 2013
the movie over the next year, the director of the movie, Gary Huggins, fell in love with Trio. He realized Trio emoted great screen presence. The whole production company returned the summer of 2013. Gary had altered the script to include Trio in many scenes and made his “character” weave in and out of the movie. Trio worked that camera and performed like a top notch thespian. The only thing Trio would not do for the camera is bark. Yes, I said, he’s a Chihuahua that wouldn’t bark, just another way that Trio is a one of a kind boy, and maybe even a STAR in the making. He’s had his fifteen minutes of fame, but, more importantly, it looks as though fate is on his side. Chris Mohler volunteers as an assistant to the Vets and the Vet Techs in the vet clinic at Wayside Waifs. Besides Trio, he has another Chihuahua that Wayside Waifs rescued from a puppy mill, and a pointer mix he rescued from a shelter in the Ozarks. Chris has a big heart when it comes to special-needs dogs.
15
Hyaluronic Acid for your Dog’s and Cat’s Joint Health Arthritis isn’t just a people problem. Pet owners know as their dogs, cats, horses and even guinea pigs age that osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most insidious conditions. It is difficult, indeed, to see one’s pet wake in the morning having difficulty getting up. Joint Health Impacts Pets
The signs of osteoarthritis (OA) are often all too apparent. Does he or she walk around stiff-legged for the first 10 to 15 minutes in the morning to get warmed up? Is your pet limping especially on those cold, wet, rainy mornings? Does your pet limp following that Frisbee session? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then your pet is probably suffering from OA. OA is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the wearing out of the articular cartilage (the cartilage located at joint surfaces); hypertrophy of the bone at the margins (enlargements of the end of the bones due to periostitis); and changes in the synovial membrane (the lining of the joints). Arthritis is characterized by stiffness and soreness, which results in a decrease in motion and activity. OA may be caused by many reasons, and can affect dogs, cats, horses, birds, and even guinea pigs. Some estimates place the incidence as high as 90% of geriatric cats having arthritis in their joints. In some dogs, especially the larger and rapidly growing breeds, the incidence of osteoarthritis can run between 75% to 90%. 16
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
Treating Osteoarthritis
When OA is treated early, the disease progression may be slowed and the joint mobility increased resulting in an improved quality of life. The disease may be controlled but there is no cure and it must be managed as a chronic medical condition. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a hydrophilic (i.e. waterloving) carbohydrate occurring naturally in the human body. HA seeks out and binds to water, becoming a viscous, Jell-O-like substance that in turn, serves as the body’s natural lubricant and provider of cushioning and elasticity. We find HA in almost 95% of our bodies, with nearly half being in the skin. HA is also found in the insides of our eyeballs, where it carries nutrients and cushions the retina, hyaline cartilage (also known as gristle cartilage), where it covers and protects the ends of long bones, and synovial fluid, where it lubricates our joints. This water-loving molecule keeps your pet’s joints moving without pain. The HA in our joints serves the same purpose that oil serves in a car’s engine. It keeps the parts running smoothly without grinding against each other. Of course, at regular intervals, we need to replace an engine’s oil because it becomes thinner and less able to protect the moving metal surfaces from wear. Similarly, as we age, the viscosity of synovial joint fluid lessens. We need to maintain healthy levels of HA as we might top off our car’s oil pan.
Production of HA
Despite HA’s near-omnipresence, nature has not blessed it with a long life. The body breaks down and excretes HA. Normally, this HA is simply replaced with new HA. But as we age, our production of HA can decrease, and this accelerates with age. By middle age, our bodies can no longer make up the amount of HA they lose, and the telltale signs of aging become apparent. Joints lose more and more cushion and movement becomes impaired. The collagen in our skin loses its moisture, and skin sags and wrinkles. It has been said, that by the age 50 we may have half the amount of hyaluronic acid in our bodies that we did in our 20s. This same process occurs in our pets, too. Simply put — without enough HA, we look and feel old. So do our pets.
When looking for a high quality HA product, consider products manufactured by locally-owned Hyalogic. Hyalogic focuses on the natural, wellbeing of your beloved pets. “When we develop our premium, hyaluronic acid products, we consider not just your pets, but you-the people who love them. A healthy pet makes your life easier, too. We understand the unconditional love our pets give us and we create products that help you give that love back,” says Darren Landis, President of Hyalogic.
Visit hyalogic.com for details on the entire product line.
Pure HA Supplements
Many adult pets simply cannot keep up with the production of HA. Supplementing HA is vital to maintaining healthy joints and skin. But not just any HA will do. Pure HA is the best kind of supplement. Pure HA can be produced through the natural fermentation process. This should be an all-natural, non-animal derived, vegan-friendly process. Just how good is pure HA? Many, many animal owners are reporting incredible benefits by using Pure HA.
Long-Term Effects
Many vets recommend that a high-quality HA formula is an excellent nutritional supplement for supporting the long-term health of your pet’s joints. You can find high-molecular-weight HA formulas that work well for all dog and cat breeds and provide additional support for skin, eye and gum health. www.metropetmag.com | November 2013
17
“ Those who say money can’t buy happiness have never paid an adoption fee.”
-Anonymous
In this issue of MetroPet we are excited to feature Second Chance Pet Adoptions (SCPAKC). This group has been serving the community since 1997 and is proud of its low return rate. It’s commitment is to making pet placements work for everyone – the family, the pet and the community. Second Chance is located on North Oak Trafficway in Kansas City. See adoptable pets, make donations, and learn more about this group at www.2ndchancepets.net.
Second Chance Pet Adoptions
by Cindy Schmidt Second Chance Pet Adoptions (SCPAKC) was founded in December 1997 by a small group of dedicated volunteers with a true love of animals, and the determination to help find permanent, loving, responsible, safe homes for Kansas City’s “unwanted” pets. Second Chance Pet Adoptions is a NO-Kill not-forprofit (501c3) adoption organization operating in the Greater Kansas City area. The organization strives to educate the public about the pet overpopulation problem in our area and across the nation, and to stress the importance of spaying and neutering companion animals. The organization has developed a large, successful foster program, since it doesn’t have enough physical space to house animals. Dogs and cats of all ages live in
finds a forever home. The more foster homes we have the more animals we can save. All of the animals admitted to the program are spayed and neutered and receive all of their shots prior to adoptions. Some need dental or other procedures before being ready for adoption.
Highlights
• S ince 1997, when the organization first started, over 18,000 dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens have found homes. • 7 0% of these animals were from local high kill shelters, unwanted litters, and owners that could no longer care for them. • 3 0% came from puppy mills, unwanted litters, and breeder dogs.
What Sets SCPACK Apart
Longevity – We have been serving the community since 1997.
Family Members - Animals are in foster homes,
P Cola enjoys bath day at the center. Photo courtesy of Sara Clark
volunteers’ homes receiving much needed socializing and training. They are treated as a member of the family. Foster homes are always needed. If you would like to learn more about becoming a foster home family, please call. The food and vet care are provided for the foster families, so all that is needed is love and care for the animal, and to bring it to the adoption center daily until it 18
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
living in a real family environment. Therefore we know the animals inside & out, and tell the good and the bad. Low Return Rate - Focus on forever homes. This is accomplished through a strict screening process. It takes more than money to get one of our animals. Physical Space - Opened our new center in June 2013. We work really hard on keeping it clean and neat! We are open 6 days a week. No Kill - Therefore, we keep the animals until a home is found. Training - Animals are worked with daily on people skills and home skills. We focus on walking on leash, housebreaking, and tricks after that! We have an agility course that we eventually work the animals up to. The animals are exposed to all types of real life experiences,
Coolio and Jack in the Bachelor pad. Photo courtesy of Deanna Johnson, A Day to Adore Photography
including kids, men, women, other dogs, and cats. One Big Family – We are really hands on with volunteers. We are one big family! We encourage total interaction with the pets, whether it is bathing two times a week or teaching new tricks with agility. The kids have a great time. Education - We have a kid’s program called SCPAKC PET PALS. We meet on the first Tuesday of the month at 7 pm. Debbie Pack runs the program and she focuses on LOVE, KINDNESS, COMPASSION, and RESPECT, making the world a better place, one generation at a time. She works on trying to properly introduce children on greeting a dog, what to do if you have a scary dog come out to you while you are riding your bike, disaster preparedness/ first aid, and many other things. She also teaches about giving back to the community. We have a lot of projects which involve working with other charities and teaching children the art of giving. Real Life Skills - We feel lucky to have our trainer, Cindy Schmidt, of Greyt Manners Dog Training, on board to help with pets both before and after adoption. She is www.metropetmag.com | November 2013
also available to help outside dogs as well. She offers many different classes open to the public at our Adoption Center. Creative Solutions - We are looking for creative solutions. We would like the animals to stay with their families instead of being at the shelter. We are different in the sense that instead of people paying a drop-off fee at a shelter, they come to us and utilize that money for training to be able to keep the pet in their family. We work with different agencies to help with food, low cost spay/neuter, and aid in assisting troubled dogs via our training program. If you have a pet that will not potty train, we offer handmade diapers (Pradi pants) and male wraps (Doody diapers) to assist in housetraining and keep messes on the fabric. They are stylish (fun prints and tutus for the diapers) and user friendly. Donation Boutique – Our popular boutique offers hundreds of items for both your pet and you!
We offer bling-bling collars, beds, handmade items, blankets, fun signs, cute t-shirts, and lots of toys! Please go to our website to see all of the products we offer and the events we will be out and about at during the holiday season.
Future Dreams and Goals
Our future endeavors include a new facility in the Northland. We are looking at a few different locations for our building. With this new building we are introducing our Pet Trust. The Pet Trust will be a place where aging owners can donate money to our facility to care for their animal for the rest of its life. We will be able to take the pets for meet-ups with previous owners and aid in therapy for the owner. We get many calls from aging owners who can’t keep their animals for one reason or another. If we can assist in taking the pet and bringing them to meet up with them it will help the animal and the owner.
Be better together. Whether it’s promoting responsible pet care, working as a sales associate, or even managing one of our stores, you’ll be helping to create lasting relationships between pets and pet parents everywhere. And have some fun along the way.
NOW HIRING IN GREATER KANSAS/MISSOURI AREA!
Pet Stylist/Grooming Sales Associate You’ll enjoy GREAT BENEFITS including: health coverage, dental coverage, vision coverage, store discounts, competitive pay, 401(k)/savings plan, stock purchase plan and manager training program.
APPLY ONLINE AT PETSMARTJOBS.COM Equal opportunity employer m/f/d/v. PetSmart is a drug-free workplace.
www.petsmart.com
19
Kids enjoying the first of Barbie’s Million stick Campaign. Photo courtesy of Sara Clark
owner refers to her as his million dollar dog, and what better representative for our campaign. We also offer birthday parties at our center. The themes and party info is on our website. Some children choose to donate their birthday gifts to help the pets.
Fundraising is key to getting to our next location. We have many events scheduled through the end 2013, and monthly in 2014. We will be doing fall and Christmas photos for your pets at different locations through the holiday season. One of our major events in the spring is our 5K at Smithville Lake. This year we will be adding some new events and unique attractions to the fun. We started our “Barbie’s Cotton Candy Campaign” in October. Every stick of cotton candy gets us $1 closer to paying for our new facility. You can order fresh cotton candy with proceeds going to our building fund. Barbie’s
We are in need of people to help in our fundraising campaigns. We need a professional representative to aid us in reaching our financial goals to help as many animals as possible. Please send your resumes to secondchancepets@hotmail.com
Second Chance sponsors adoption events at PetSmart, Tiffany Springs and our Adoption Center daily (see below for detail). Between these events, animals are housed in the foster homes of volunteers who socialize and tend to them. SCPAKC needs your help to continue to rescue, care for, and find homes for loving and deserving companion animals. For more information about our group and about our animals please go to our www.2ndchancepets.net. Second Chance is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a section 501 (c) (3) Organizations.
Second Chance Pet Adoption Box 964, Smithville, MO 64089
Adopt-A-pet Events are held at: Adoption Center 9237 N Oak Trafficway, KCMO Hours listed on the website
PetSmart at Tiffany Springs 8970 NW Skyview Ave, KCMO * Off of 152 Hwy & Ambassador Dr. Every other Saturday 11 am to 2 pm 20
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
Meet the Breed November Pet of the Month
Cocker Spaniel
The Spaniel is a very large family of dogs that dates as far back as the 14th century. They originally were referred to as a Spanyell and were divided into two classifications; water and land. The Cocker Spaniel was originally bred as a hunting dog and has become one of America’s favorite and most popular breeds. These dogs are known to love people and crave attention. They are family dogs and want to be with their family as much as possible. They do not do well when left alone for long periods of time. If you want a dog to be your shadow, the Cocker Spaniel is the dog for you. The Cocker Spaniel is a very happy playful companion. They are busy, active and playful. However, if this breed does not get enough attention, it can become destructive and headstrong. Consistent discipline is necessary, and it is very important to train the Cocker Spaniel. They have a moderate need for exercise, and will need a daily outlet for their energy. Cockers are athletic, agile, fast, and love to romp around with their families. They do well in agility, obedience, and therapy work. Most Cocker Spaniels are good with other animals and love to live with other dogs. Most are also excellent with children. The Cocker Spaniel is like a living doorbell, quick to raise the alarm when a stranger approaches the home. But once inside, they are very friendly with visitors. Your friends will learn to be welcomed by a rapidly wagging tail. The Cocker Spaniel is a loyal, loving, sensitive little dog that makes a great companion! Cocker Spaniels are smaller in size than many of today’s most popular breeds. This means you will spend less on food, have to less poop to clean up, and it will be easier to physically control and transport your dog. Their hair grows very fast! It is very important to maintain daily grooming and monthly haircuts. If you don’t, you will end up with a matted, furry mess. There are plenty of shorthaired dog breeds out there. If you’re not up to the challenge of keeping your dog’s coat trimmed and looking good at all times, get one of those breeds instead of a Cocker! If you’re allergic to dog hair. . . this is not the breed for you! If you can’t afford to pay a professional to give your Cocker a haircut once a month, you’ll need to fork over some www.metropetmag.com | November 2013
money to buy your own electric hair clippers. Coat colors come in over 20 variations and combinations ranging from solid brown, black, to multi-partial coloring. The good news is that there are many great things about Cocker Spaniels. The bad news is the breed is prone to several health issues. Some of these health issues are: •C herry eyes — Primarily a cosmetic issue, if you treat it quickly. Can cost several hundred dollars for surgery. (Prolapsed gland of the third eyelid). •G laucoma and cataracts — This is a serious eye condition which can lead to blindness. Glaucoma treatments must be done over the lifetime of the dog. •C onjunctivitis — (eye infections) This is a very common in Cockers. Not as serious or expensive as some of the other Cocker eye problems. •D istichia — Misplaced hair along the edge of the eye, which grows towards the eye and irritate it. Severe cases can require surgery. •E ar infections — Left untreated, ear infections can get out of hand and surgery can be required. You must keep the hair trimmed around the ear canal area. If you use a good ear cleaner on a weekly basis, you can totally prevent ear infections. • S kin problems — Cockers can have oily, flaky and stinky skin. They can be difficult problems to treat. Skin problems can also arise from food allergies, environmental allergies and flea infestations. •E xcited urination or submissive urination — When compared to other breeds, Cockers are more likely to lose bladder control when happy or frightened. •A utoimmune diseases — This breed seems to be more prone to autoimmune diseases then most other breeds. Such a disease is often fatal within a matter of days.
21
What Happened to Fluffy? By Nancy Piper
“My dearest companion and best friend Fluffy had been sick. I took her to the vet many times in attempts to her get well. Finally, the last thing I could do to help her was to have her euthanized, as there was no hope for recovery and she was in pain. I don’t remember what the veterinarian asked me about taking care of her body. I was in shock. That was six months ago. I still miss Fluffy tremendously. I don’t know what happened to her. I don’t know what the vet clinic told me and I’m afraid to call and ask. I wish I knew… I miss her so. I would like to honor her in some way.”
22
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
The above pet parent didn’t know she had the right to printed information on who was handling her pet’s body and the service had been selected for her beloved pet. She didn’t know the options available to her: burial in a pet cemetery, private cremation or communal cremation, or even freeze drying and taxidermy. She had the right to view her pet’s body again and say her good-byes. She had the right to a visitation, a funeral service, and/or a memorial service for her beloved pet. While the death of a pet is something we don’t like to think about, me included, it is an event that we are wise to plan for. A person who thinks about the options, decides what he wants, and arranges it before the time of need, is able to make financially sound decisions; is able to spend as much or as little as he wants, and, more importantly, will get the type of afterlife care for his pet that he deems fitting. Then, when the pet dies, all the person has to do is grieve, aside from contacting the service provider, instead of being forced to make an immediate decision regarding the afterlife care of his beloved pet. At the time of death, the brain is foggy and it is hard to even think, let alone make such an important decision. The
options for the afterlife care of a pet include burial, cremation, freeze drying, and taxidermy; the most common method for the afterlife care of a pet being cremation. Burial arrangements involve several options, so it is best to contact the pet cemetery directly to discuss the options. Typically a pet cemetery will offer a visitation as well as a funeral or committal service. For cremation, two choices are usually offered: a Private Cremation or a Communal Cremation. A visitation can also be held before a pet is cremated, or a memorial service can be held after the cremation. Not all cremation providers have the same standards or definitions for the cremation of companion animals. When you call the cremation provider to inquire about the services offered, ask what their definition of a Private Cremation is. A true Private or Individual Cremation involves having only your pet in the cremation chamber, regardless of your pet’s size. Then you are assured of receiving your pet back, all of your pet, and only your pet. A concern with the Communal (Simple or Mass) Cremation is what happens to the ashes (cremated remains) after the cremation. Frequently the ashes are placed in the dumpster, with the end result being your pet is sent to the landfill (the dump). If you don’t want your pet to end up in the dump, make sure your pet’s ashes are buried or scattered somewhere you can visit. Ask your prospective cremation provider what happens to the ashes, and be persistent in getting a real answer. To find the pet cemeteries and
crematories in your area, ask friends, search online or look in the yellow pages. Then make phone calls. Ask questions. Ask detailed questions. You can call the facility more than once. As you come up with more questions, call back. For the utmost peace of mind, visit the facility that you are considering using. After all, they will be handling your beloved pet. Ask for a tour. Ask for an explanation of their procedures. Make sure you are comfortable with the people and the facility. If the staff at the facility won’t show you everything and explain what their procedures are, or if you are offended by anything you encounter there, then it probably isn’t the place to use for your loved one. Also, you should be able to just show up, without an appointment, if the facility has nothing to hide. Know that you have the right to mourn your pet in the way that you want, in the way that serves your emotional needs. If you need to take your pet home with you and spend time with him before any afterlife care is performed, that is perfectly okay. Some people like to bath and/or brush their pets after they have died. This can actually become a treasured memory. After all, in the olden days, the women bathed and dressed or shrouded the dead (human) body as an important part of their mourning. We can do the same thing for our pets. Also, a funeral service or memorial service is an important part of the mourning. This can be done at home, at any time; it doesn’t have to be immediately after the death of a pet. It can also be done in a chapel at a pet memorial center, with the staff assisting you with the preparation of the body and the funeral or memorial service. The funeral/memorial service can be as simple as people sitting around sharing favorite stories of the departed pet. Often time that will lead to laughter, as well as tears. Read poems or scriptures, play music, play videos or put on a slide show, in other words the family can do what feels right for them. A pet memorial center will have a structured service, but will also help you customize the service that you want. As hard as a pet death is to think about, it is much easier to plan the afterlife care of your pet ahead of time; to do your research, to make informed decisions, rather than make a decision at a time when you are not emotionally or mentally capable www.metropetmag.com | November 2013
of making the decisions in a way you would otherwise. Plus you have eliminated the doubt that otherwise will haunt you for years “I wonder what happed to Fluffy.” Nancy Bush Piper owns Rolling Acres Pet Memorial Center in Kansas City, MO, along with her husband Gary. Gary and Nancy are also co-owners of Loving Hearts Pet Memorial Services in St. Louis County, MO. Nancy has a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and sociology from Northwest Missouri State University. She is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist and a charter Certified Pet Loss Professional as well as having a Pet Loss Companioning Certification. Nancy and Gary are blessed with many animals in their lives. For fun, she studies horsemanship and plays with her horses and mules.
23
Andie, My Therapy dog Our journey began when Andie, my black Labrador, was nine years old. I had always wanted to train her to become a therapy dog because of my mother. When my Mother was living in assisted living, Andie and I would go over to visit daily. Andie loved meeting the residents and always loved going to see “Meema”, my Mother. The residents, as well as my Mother, loved visiting with Andie.
Wonderful Visits
I would walk in with Andie who would be greeted by the residents with a “Hello, Andie” or a lovable pat on her head. She would respond with a look of love on her face and, actually, I think she smiled at them. It was a ritual we kept for two years while my Mother lived there. I remember when I would ask Andie, “Do you want to go see Meema?” She would immediately look at me with her tail wagging indicating that she couldn’t wait to see her. When we walked into my Mom’s apartment complex, Andie would automatically walk Me to Mom’s door. When Mom opened the door for us, Andie would madly wiggle-wag her tail and kiss my Mom. She, in turn, would bend down and hug Andie and tell her how much she loved her. It truly was a beautiful relationship, and one I have tucked away in my memories. The day Mom died Andie was sad and bewildered. She walked into Mom’s apartment and looked for her in every
room with a lost and lonely look. She searched and searched for Meema. When we were leaving, Andie looked up at me with her soulful brown eyes and I knew she was asking the question, “Where’s Meema?”
Something Missing
How can you explain death to a dog? You can’t. I just hugged Andie as much as possible telling her over and over again how much Meema loved her. The next three years were difficult for both Andie and me. In our own ways, we grieved for the loss of my Mother. The days melted away with me going through the motions of life and taking walks with Andie on a daily basis. You could see it in Andie’s personality that she wasn’t the same excited dog that loved life. There was someone missing and the loss caused her to be lethargic and sad. For both of us, it took a while to work our way through our grief. One afternoon, I was walking Andie on my usual route and I stopped to talk to one of my neighbors. I am not sure how the conversation turned to therapy training for Andie, but that is where our conversation went. My neighbor had trained her dog to be a certified therapy dog. She absolutely loved taking her dog to the nursing facilities, hospitals and hospice locations to visit and comfort the residents and patients. She explained that the qualifications to become a therapy dog were to be gentle with dealing with people, approachable, loving to others and able to work alongside other therapy dogs. I knew Andie was a great candidate because she met all of those qualifications!
A New Adventure
That next day, I called Pets For Life and inquired about enrolling Andie 24
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
and me in therapy training. They told me that I could apply for a pre-test. This orientation would demonstrate what was involved in the testing process. I told them to sign me up! I arrived ten minutes early, because I was so excited about this opportunity for Andie and me. When I walked in there were 20 people sitting at the tables probably with the same level of enthusiasm that I had. We were all enthusiastic!! The staff took us through the testing process that would be performed on our dogs. I was wondering at the time if Andie would be able to pass all of the criteria. I was hoping and praying she would, because I knew she would love this experience of loving people who needed it and I definitely wanted to be a part of that.
series of exercises like walk around in a circle and then turn around and walk back. They looked to see if we were at ease with walking together. Next, they asked us to walk around with wheelchairs, walkers with lots of noise to test how Andie dealt with the turmoil. To my delight, Andie dealt with that situation with such grace because of her history with visiting her Meema. I was so proud of my little girl, Andie, for how she performed. The only thing we needed to work on was having Andie lay down. It took a couple of times, but you need to know that Andie is ten years old and had surgery the year before to repair a torn ACL, so God Bless Her, it takes a bit of time for her to lay down easily!!
Practice Makes Perfect
The day came for our TRUE certification test and I was even more nervous. Andie and I had practiced time and time again how to easily lay
After we left, Andie and I went home to practice all of the techniques that she needed to perform at a perfect level. I am sure she wondered at times why I was so focused on how she sat, how she laid down, how she had to avoid other dogs. Andie, also, had to be able to pay little attention to objects that were in front of her whether it was a toy, ball or a wheelchair. I wanted her to do her best so she would pass her pre-test. The day came of the pre-test. Would Andie pass? I was nervous! Of course, Andie had no idea what she was expected to do. When I entered the office where we were going to take our pre-test, my palms were sweating, but Andie was at ease. They asked us to walk in and sit down in a specific area. Andie and I were then instructed to do a www.metropetmag.com | November 2013
Certification Day
down the first time. She had no idea how important this was to me for her to pass this test. We walked into the room where the dog trainers were administering the tests. Would Andie pass? We began the testing process and finally when we were approaching the end, the trainers asked me to have her lay down. I was nervous because of our pretest performance. I felt like it was an eternity until I looked at Andie and very calmly said, “Honey, lay down please.” Well, I couldn’t have been more pleased when those big brown eyes looked up at me and said, “Okay” and she gently lay down in front of me. I lowered my face to her and gave her the biggest kiss! The certification staff gave us a TEN! We were on our way to being a “therapy couple.” Now the next step was for me to follow an experienced therapy dog and his/her owner. We were continuing our journey!
25
Obesity in Cats
by Cheryl Waterman
Obesity is a serious problem in cats that can lead to premature death. Sadly it is the most common nutritional disorder seen in cats. Approximately 40% of cats in the USA are obese. A cat is considered to be obese if its weight is around 20% over the ideal weight.
What Are the Causes? The most common problem is over feeding. If the calories consumed exceed calories burned then the cat will put on weight.
Dry food diets are extremely popular these days & can lead to obesity. The problem lies in the fact that the cat by nature requires a high protein diet & most dry foods are high in carbohydrates. Cats synthesize protein & fat to use as energy, carbohydrates are converted to fat.
Aging As the cat moves into it’s senior years it’s metabolic rate slows down, joints may become more painful & the senior cat will be less active. A slowed down metabolic rate & decrease in activity can both lead to obesity in cats. Problems Caused By Cat Obesity: • Diabetes Mellitus • Arthritis • Hepatic Lipidosis • Shortness of breath, especially after exercise • Skin problems • Greater risk during anesthesia & surgery • Heart disease How Can I Tell If My Cat is Overweight? It is always best to ask your veterinarian if he/she believes your cat is overweight. Cats come in all shapes & sizes & therefore it is difficult to determine a standard weight that covers all cats & their differences. For example, a Singapura would be expected to weigh less than a Maine Coon. However, a rough indicator is to feel along the side of the cat. You should be able to feel the individual ribs. If you are not sure, contact your veterinarian so he/she can perform an examination
What Do I Do If My Cat is Overweight? Your veterinarian will do a thorough physical exam, which includes a “body condition score” — scale of 1 thru 5, with “3” being ideal and “5” being overweight. Treatment of obesity in cats may include the 26
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
following. •W eight loss programs — Weight loss is something that requires close veterinary supervision. If it is done too quickly it can lead to hepatic lipidosis, which is life threatening. Therefore NEVER attempt a weight reduction diet on your own. • I ncreased Exercise — There are plenty of interactive toys on the market that will encourage your cat to exercise. •D ecrease caloric intake — There are prescription diets on the market specifically for cats: your veterinarian will be able to recommend the right diet for your cat. As stated above, it is now well known that many dry foods contain excessive quantities of carbohydrates which can lead to obesity. So switching to either canned or raw food should be discussed with your veterinarian. Weight loss needs to occur gradually to avoid hepatic lipidosis. • Treats — It’s easy to slip the odd treat to your cat, but this may need to stop. Ask your veterinarian about treats. •S mall Meals — Feed 4-6 small meals per day instead of filling the bowl & leaving it down for your cat to graze on. Regardless of steps you take, it is critical that your cat have a healthy weight so it can live a long healthy life.
www.metropetmag.com | November 2013
A long-time cat lover, Cheryl Waterman was the Hospital Administrator at the Cat Clinic of Johnson County. She was with the Clinic for over 13 years. In 2007, Waterman received the Certification of Veterinary Practice Management (CVPM) designation. She is a member of the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association and the American Animal Hospital Association. Questions may be directed to the Cat Clinic of Johnson County at 913.541.0478.
27
Chip’s
NEXT ADVENTURE TEAMWORK
by Heddie Leger
Recap Episode 8 – 2013 We won, and Penelope and Allen were carrying us on their shoulders. They were being very good sports and going and shaking the hands of all the people in the race; some of the people were smiling and happy, but some were not; they walked off mad and pouting. I learned today what it meant to be a good sport and what sportsmanship was all about. Some people were mad because they practiced, and practiced, and practiced, and did not win. They were mad because they were beat by a team that was Yesterday, everything worked together like clockwork. But today was a totally different story. THE EVENT MUST GO ON It stormed all night and was still raining. Lure Coursing is not a team sport, but does take team effort. Everyone needs to know his job. Even though only one athlete will be competing on the field, there is a prep team, field team, catch team at the end, and a clean-up team. Without each of these teams working together a lure coursing (steeplechase) event could not take place. We watched as the prep team worked feverishly after the pelting rain to create a safe running track for the dogs, plus they had to put all the jumps back in place as it had rained so hard and the wind had blown them all out of place. It looked like a tornado had gone through the course, but we knew it was not a tornado. They called it straight-line winds, which can be quite damaging. I was very nervous; storms make me very nervous; and I did not sleep at all, so I was also VERY tired. I had heard talk of canceling the events of the day. But dog people are very tenacious and they decided the event must go on. They had not announced the Overall Champion Dog Competitor yet. There are three
new and no one knew. We were called “dark horse” winners, but it had nothing to do with horses, and everything to do with something they called natural talent. All I knew was that it was a really good feeling to win. I had never won anything. But I learned that it was also even better to be a good sport and be nice to everyone, whether you won or not. I cannot wait until we do the steeplechase… oops, I mean lure coursing. Learning something new all the time. levels and the dogs that won their heats got to compete in the last winners’ race for a chance at the Championship. In order to achieve Overall Champion, you have to win at least one other event. While the Prep Team worked hard to get ready, the field team was busily trying to line the course again with bales of straw to keep dogs from running off. They also had to fill in muddy areas with straw as people were getting stuck in the mud. The two teams had to coordinate their activities in order to get ready for the lure-coursing race at noon. They did not have much time as it was already 10:00 am and people with their dogs were beginning to sign up for the first race. It was best out of three races!
THE STEEPLECHASE
I was beginning to feel that I could not do this, when Stormy said to me, “Chip, you have survived much worse — you can do this.” That is all I needed to hear. It was like my entire body was alive with electricity. I was ready to go. The clean-up crew gave the signal that they were done and the race crew put our muzzles on and our handlers put us in place. This was something that I loved to do, chase and catch things. Best out of three, and I would be the winner of the Overall Champion veryone chieves ore Award. My prep
TEAM = Together E
28
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
A
M
team had prepared everything I needed, the set up crew was ready and the announcer was setting the tone, the crowd was hushed, One your marks, Set, Bang, Go as the starter gun went off. We were off like a bullet. Chasing after the lure that we all so badly wanted. Dogs kept banging into me and knocking me off course, then the dreaded thing happened, a dog knocked me over. I rolled and rolled, landing on my feet and dashed off again, but I was too late, a close third place, but no trophy. The second heat was a bit better, I ran in front right away, as the starter gun went off. I could feel the breath of the dogs chasing on my tail, I kept my eye on the lure and the end, and remembered Stormy’s words. “You can do this. You can do this. You can do this. You can do this!” And then, I did! I won the second heat! I could
www.metropetmag.com | November 2013
Teamwork: working together for a common cause by coordinating, cooperating and collaborating to reach a particular goal hear the roar of the crowd, but I was breathing so hard, and was so tired, it was all a blur. Someone gave me a drink, and sprayed me off. We had a thirty minute rest before the third and last heat. My heart felt like it was going to burst. I had to win. For my MawMaw, my sister, my new family and all the lost dogs that don’t come from fancy breeding and training farms. I just had to find a way to win. Besides, I wanted that trophy, and, I wanted the hot air balloon ride for the winner. The time had come. This was the test of Champions. The third and final heat. It was not for the faint of heart. We were all tired from the past two races. Lure coursing is
hard work.. It takes speed, strength, agility, endurance, and willpower that never gives up. The ground was muddy and it started to rain again. All the other dogs’ owners were complaining that they wanted the race canceled, but my family said, “You can do this.” The judges and race officials decided to keep with the schedule and the last heat went as planned for the day. On your marks; Set; Starting gun; BANG; GO! Everyone was intent on winning, but I had the best chance of the other three top winners, I had the inside track and could just run straight. It was muddy, but they had put straw down for traction. The other dogs were slipping and sliding, one rolled into me, but I was so intent on the finish, I barely noticed. My mind was like a steel trap - get to the lure first - get there first - get there first. One of the dogs
29
“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.“ ~ Henry Ford
passed me, and I took away. We floated through one final deep breath, some clouds and felt like and lunged forward we were in heaven. But, “Teamwork is the ability to work together toward then something strange with all my might, and got through the end a a common vision. The ability to direct individual happened, the driver of nose before the dog that the balloon fell over and accomplishments toward organizational had just passed me. I grabbed his chest and objectives. It is the fuel that allows common WON! Everyone came was moaning. We were people to attain uncommon results.” running over, cheering. very afraid, no one was ~ Andrew Carnegie I was on their shoulders driving the balloon and and they were carrying we were floating higher me to the winner’s circle. This time to collect the Overall and higher and going faster and faster out of control. We Champion of the Event Award and fly in a hot air balloon. did not know where we were going or where we would This was so exciting. land. The driver laid on his back, barely breathing and After all the festivities, they showed us to the hot air still moaning. Then I remembered he had a phone and balloon that we were going to ride in. I could take one we dialed for emergency. Thank goodness I have a very person/dog with me and I asked MawMaw to go with smart MawMaw, she knew the numbers 911, someone me. After all she had been through, I felt this could be answered and we started to bark. We barked, and barked something wonderful we could share together. We both hoping they would somehow track the phone and realize got in, and the person who flies the balloon told us how we were in trouble and connect with the emergency crews to stay safe and where to sit. He turned on the engine and somehow track us down, even though we were way and the blowers and up we started to go. Up, up, up and up in the air. It was getting dark and we were getting cold.
look no further than The PawZone!
Pawzitively Passionate About Your Pet
30
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
We did have a blanket and some treats on board, so we huddled on the floor of the hot air balloon basket, ate a snack, closed our eyes, and hoped for the best. We had acted in a team effort to try to get help for the man; we kept licking his face, and pawing at his chest, like trying to keep him awake and massage his chest, as that seemed to be what was bothering him. All we could do was hope for the best, and hope he would wake up and we would get down safely. Stay tuned for Chip’s next chapter to find out where the hot air balloon landed, what happened to the man, and where Chip’s next adventure will take him?
Humane Education Point:
Activity: Is teamwork always about winning? Why or why not? In this story, how did Chip act as a team with his MawMaw?
Story Discussion Tips:
What are the elements of teamwork?
Heddie is a Certified Humane Educator and member of APDT, APLB, APHE and NHES sharing a lifelong passion of helping children and the elderly learn manners reinforcement with their pets through the PawZone In-Home PetSitting. You can reach her at 816.820.5829. How did the event demonstrate teamwork? How do you think Chip felt during the race? How did Chip and MawMaw work as a team in the hot air balloon? What would you do if you were stranded somewhere with limited resources?
Product Showcase
Do Your Doody Pet Services is on the way!
FREE
Scrub-a-Dub Club
Treats Unleashed offers a “Scruba-Dub” Club for self-serve bathers. We provide the all-natural shampoos and conditioners, towels, brushes, nail trimmers and dryers — you provide the dirty dog! Best of all — leave the cleaning up to us! Treats Unleashed Leawood, has something for every dog’s grooming needs. No appointment necessary for self-serve washes. For complete details visit www.treats-unleashed. com or call 913-451-2000
Initial cleanup
(a $65 value) New Customers Only! (Offer expires 11/31/13 - act today!)
Do Your Doody Pet Services offers
TIVOL sterling silver doggie tags with white, blue or pink quartz beginning at $45. (Additional charges will apply for engravings beyond the pet’s first name and one phone number.) A percentage of proceeds goes to support Great Plains SPCA.
residential and commercial pet waste cleanup. NO Contracts! All it takes is a call and a professionally trained representative will thoroughly remove pet waste to make your life easier. To request service call 1-855-DOODY4U or contact us at
doyourdoody.net Do Your Doody Pet Services provides
customers with high-quality services personalized for your unique needs. Our professional, courteous and efficient staff are ready to scoop it today!
1-855-DOODY4U • doyourdoody.net www.metropetmag.com | November 2013
31
Chip’s Corner
PAWZZLE
Answers to this Pawzzle can be found in Chip’s Adventure beginning on page 28 and the Breed of the Month story on page 21. 32
MetroPet Magazine | November 2013
ACROSS
DOWN
2. T he Cocker Spaniel should be brushed on a ___________ basis. 6. What Chip and MawMaw rode in after the race. 8. Another word for Spaniel. 10. The hair of the Cocker Spaniel grows very __________________. 13. C onsistent _______________ is needed to train the Cocker Spaniel. 14. They need moderate _________________. 18. I f left alone too long, they can become bored and be _______________. 19. They do not like to be left ______________. 20. They are very friendly with ______________. 21. _ ____________ make Chip very nervous. 23. S paniels are divided in two classifications land and __________. 25. The Cocker Spaniel is one of the most ___________ breeds in the United States. 26. They get along very well with ____________.
1. T he Cocker Spaniel is very happy and _________. 3. The Cocker Spaniel is very ________________. 4. C hip and MawMaw covered themselves with a ______________. 5. P rone to eye infections called ______________. 7. The Cocker Spaniel is an _______________ dog. 9. B est out of ___________ heats plus winning another event. 11. Another word for Lure Coursing. 12. The Cocker Spaniel is a loyal, loving dog that makes a great ______________. 15. This breed seems to be more prone to ______________ diseases. 16. Word of the month 17. They are _______________ in size which makes them easy to transport and control. 22. They need a trim at least one a ___________. 24. Team that gets things ready for the event.
Lee’s Summit Subaru and Lee’s Summit Honda will be supporting Hillcrest Transitional Housing this Holiday season to assist hundreds of children, single parents and families in need. For over 30 years, Hillcrest has been assisting families on a total life situation from homelessness to self-sufficiency within 90 days.
Please help us support our local community by donating canned goods. Bring in 3 or more canned food items to Lee’s Summit Subaru or Lee’s Summit Honda and receive $5 OFF your service bill from now until December 7th, 2013. Thank you for your support and selfless giving this Holiday Season! Lee’s Summit Subaru 816-251-8600 2101 NE Independence Ave. Lee’s Summit, MO 64064
www.metropetmag.com | November 2013
Lee’s Summit Honda 816-251-8700 401 NE Colbern Road Lee’s Summit, MO 64086
Limit one discount per customer per visit.
33
Put a rush into every hour. It hauls. And, it hauls. 2014 FORESTER 2.0XT TOURING
Pet Friendly Dealership
816-251-8600
www.leessummitsubaru.com
2101 NE Independence Ave., Lee’s Summit, MO