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Creating a Mixed Species Home An Evolutionary Perspective on Cat Nutrition Custody Battle determining who gets the pets when a marriage ends FEB 2018 | VOL. 6 NO. 6 | PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM
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see all the rescue animals. I read all their stories. And then I edit those stories down to about 50 words each. Fifty words to hook your interest and tell you what you need to know to fall in love.
And I’ve done someone a disservice, which I feel badly about, especially since I have a soft spot in my heart for her. Brown Betty. No lie, she’s been at the shelter for a year. A year! That’s too long. So today, I’m sharing her full story with all of you. Because her forever family is out there. If it’s not you, take a minute, and see if you know the perfect home for her. Betty doesn’t show well. At adoption events she turns her back to the kennel door and mostly sleeps. When she does get animated it’s when she sees her foster mom or foster girl, and then she comes to life, wiggling, barking and begging to get out of her kennel to love them. She does not interact with the visitors, and therefore gets very little attention. In addition, Betty’s
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head is scarred in several places and she looks “scary” to many people. Betty needs to be an only pet, and that designation is always a turn off for adopters – despite the fact that many of our dogs go to homes where they are the only pet. The amazing thing about Betty is that she’s a dream dog in her foster home. She is very loving with people, especially young girls. She has a 7 year old and a 13 year old girl in her foster home that she just adores. She is house trained, kennel trained, leash trained and loves to play ball. She just needs someone to give her a chance. If you think you could be the people to love Brown Betty forever, apply to meet her today at rescuerovers.org. You can also read more about Betty at http://bit.ly/BrownBetty In addition to pet photography, Candi Wong also creates pet accessories and recently opened an online store. Reach out to her at Wildside Pet Photography at wsdesignphotos.com. She is the proud mom of two goldens, and is a huge pet lover.
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Happyear! New Y
Baby, It’s Cold Outside Resolve to Help an Animal this Year Hemp: a Plant-Based Alternative Therapy
medical potential of CBD oil in pets
I’m Adoptable! JAN 2018 | VOL. 6 NO. 5 | PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM
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Cover photo by Candi Wong
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kim Justen STAFF WRITERS Cynthia Alex | Aspen Anderson Tonya Landon Foxi LeFierce | April A. Northstrom Sarah Tyler CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Pamela Hart Temma Martin Heather McIlvenna, DVM DESIGNER Kim Justen PHOTOGRAPHER Candi Wong CIRCULATION Lane Pellinger, Circulation Manager Available at Smith’s Grocery Store racks & all Beans and Brews locations.
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FEB 2018 | VOL. 6 NO. 6 PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM
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Custody Battle determining who gets the pets when a marriage ends By Pamela Hart
Cold Weather Care for Pets protect your pets
18 20
12 14
it can work – here’s how By Sarah Tyler
HSU 2017 Recap By Gene Baierschmidt
By Heather McIlvenna, DVM
Love Means Togetherness bonding rabbits & other pets
An Evolutionary Perspective on Cat Nutrition By Aspen Anderson
Can You Help Me? when a cat appears on your doorstep By Foxi LeFierce
Single and Looking for Love
2 | PETS IN THE CITY
Save Them All Saturdays
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a new adoption option at the Gateway
24
Ask Stetson By Tonya Landon
24
Saying Goodbye
By Cynthia Alex
10
Creating a Mixed Species Home
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By Temma Martin
Dog Booties
beyond fashion for function
Rick Whitty, DVM PICM Disclaimer: All reader submissions and photos are voluntarily submitted without expectation of compensation. All opinions of the authors in this Magazine are those of the writer or contributor and are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. The publisher has not confirmed the accuracy of information contained in the articles. PICM reserves the right to edit, alter, or modify the submitted article to the extent in which we deem necessary.
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A RESCUE PLEA: Pets In The City Magazine is dedicated to and encourages rescuing companion animals of all types. There are thousands of animals in Utah and across our nation needing a forever home. If you are interested in rescuing a companion animal, there are over 100 animal rescues in Utah. A good resource is petfinder.com, a nationwide database for companion animals of all types. A rescued animal can be rewarding and lead to a forever grateful love.
By April Northstrom
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Pets In The City Magazine © 2017 is an independent, free monthly magazine published by PICM Publishing. For information regarding Pets in the City Magazine, visit www.petsinthecitymagazine.com Any and all articles in Pets in the City Magazine are submitted for reading enjoyment only. Please consult a professional and make wise personal decisions regarding health and safety issues of pets and family.
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Custody Battle determining who gets the pets when a marriage ends By Pamela Hart, Animal Legal Defense Fund Q. I’m getting divorced but our dogs are like our children. Who gets to keep them? A. You’re not alone! Custody concerns about furry family members are on the rise, and they can become as bitter and emotionally fraught as those involving human children. Like you, most Americans consider companion animals members of the family. But the law hasn’t caught up to society, and still classifies them as property. Courts aren’t generally required to treat your dogs any differently than the big screen TV, even
though the difference is clear to you and me. The good news is that the law is slowly but surely coming around to today’s reality. Let’s say Jack and Jill are splitting up and have to decide what happens to Fido the dog (though the same goes for any animal). Lawsuits can take a lot of time and money, and since courts don’t have to consider what’s best for Fido, it’s a great idea for Jack and Jill to come to an agreement outside of the courtroom. They can even use a mediator to reach an agreement in Fido’s best interests. This approach avoids costly legal fees and the stress associated with a custody case. But if things between Jack and Jill have come tumbling down in a big way, and not even a professional mediator can get them to agree on Fido’s fate, the matter goes to court. Jill is going to have to prove that she’s Fido’s rightful “owner” under the law. The simple fact that Jack’s name is on the adoption paperwork isn’t enough to decide Fido’s future. Jack and Jill have been jointly caring for Fido for years, but maybe Jill is his primary caregiver, taking the lead on vet bills, food, treats, toys, doggy daycare, and those intangible “costs” like emotional investment. Jill will need receipts and witnesses, like friends, neighbors, or family, who can attest to all the time she spent with Fido. What happens next depends on where Jack and Jill live. Some states have enacted legislation that requires courts to consider Fido’s interests during divorce and dissolution proceedings, treating animals more like dependents than drum sets. Even if the state doesn’t have those laws, Jack and Jill’s judge could still choose to consider Fido’s interests. But the standard is still to treat Fido and friends like other material assets, and the judge could say Fido goes with Jack even if Jack hasn’t scooped a poop or paid for heartworm medication in years.
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Of course, Jack and Jill could have skipped all this if they’d included Fido in a prenuptial agreement. These agreements can even lay out a plan for joint custody. Cohabitation agreements for unmarried couples are also an option, and are legally enforceable in most states. It’s difficult to consider such practical matters when you’re wrapped up in the excitement of getting married or moving in together, but a simple contract can save a lot of heartache down the road. Plus, this kind of frank conversation is good practice for navigating all life’s obstacles as partners. But I’m a lawyer, not a therapist, so what I can tell you for sure is that you should expect to see animal custody law keep evolving to catch up with society. For now, try to set aside emotions and work to resolve this in the way that’s best for your dogs. Good luck!
Pamela Hart oversees the Animal Legal Defense Fund Animal Law Program, which supports the next generation of animal lawyers and fosters the growth of animal law in legal practice. The program collaborates with students, faculty, and school administrations to develop animal law courses and assist in forming Student Animal Legal Defense Fund (SALDF) chapters. 4 | PETS IN THE CITY
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nd your fi u o y g in lp He use. next dog ho
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EXPERT’S ADVICE
Cold Weather Care for Pets protect your pets By Heather McIlvenna, DVM
A
s we bundle up for the cold, now that winter has finally arrived here in Salt Lake City, it is important to keep in mind the warmth and comfort of our dog and cat companions. Most dog and cat breeds are well adapted to cold climates and they can stand, walk and run on snow and ice for long periods of time. In contrast to the body trunk, which has dense fur, the paws are more exposed to the cold due to the lack of fur insulation. The extremities have a high surface area-to-volume ratio, so they lose heat very easily. Of course, the ability of a pet to tolerate the cold has a lot to do with their age, body fat and fur type. A Husky should be well adapted to the snow and be able to stay outside running through snow for hours, whereas a Chihuahua or other short-haired breed would need to be monitored closely and may need additional protection such as a coat or foot booties to keep from damaging their pads in the snow. Regardless of the body type and breed of your pet, any animal is at risk of developing frostbite to the feet or extremities (such as ears and tail) if left out in the cold without adequate protection. Often the signs of frostbite are not immediately apparent. In general, if there is an affected area, the tissue initially appears pale and is cool to the touch. As the area thaws, the tissue becomes red, swollen and can blister and slough off. This can be serious enough to lead to loss of the limb. If you have a reason to
6 | PETS IN THE CITY
believe your pet may have damaged their feet in the cold temperatures, it is important to seek veterinary care for immediate treatment and protection of the areas and to start preventative measures such as antibiotics, bandages and anti-inflammatory therapy. In serious cases of cold exposure, hypothermia can occur. This happens when the body temperature goes below 99°F, and can reach life threatening levels if the temperature drops below 94°F. The normal body temperature of dogs and cats is 100° – 102.5°F. If the rectal temperature of a dog or cat is below 99°F, the pet may be suffering from hypothermia. Usually the pet is lethargic and doesn’t have much of an appetite. The cause may be environmental, such as being exposed to cold air and frozen ground, or metabolic, such as kidney or heart failure. Regardless of the cause, the low temperature indicates the pet is in need of urgent veterinary attention.
What to Do • Move the pet to a warm environment. • Bundle the pet in warm blankets. You can warm the blankets by putting the blankets in a clothes dryer. • Seek veterinary attention.
What NOT to Do • Do not risk causing burns by using blankets, heating pads, water, etc., that are too hot and may damage the skin. As a general rule of thumb, if the blanket is too warm for you to touch, then it is too warm for your pet. Heating pads and hot baths can be damaging to a pet who may be too lethargic and sedate to be able to respond and move away from the heat if it is too excessive. • Using excess superficial heat can also cause superficial blood vessels to dilate, resulting in shock. • Do not allow the pet to lie directly on a heating pad – use several layers of towels and make sure it is set on LOW. If hypothermia does occur, it is important to not overlook its significance and seek veterinary care immediately. Hypothermia is especially a problem in puppies, kittens and adult cats and small dogs, and it can contribute to shock and organ failure. It is very important that hypothermic pets receive medical attention right away. Dr. Heather McIlvenna, an associate veterinarian at University Veterinary Hospital & Diagnostic Center, specializes in geriatric care and pain management, soft tissue surgery, internal medicine, and behavior. A native of Hawaii, she is an avid canyoneer and rock climber. She loves gardening and hiking and snowshoeing with her dog, Marigold. PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM
COOPER’S CORNER
Love Means Togetherness bonding rabbits & other pets By Cynthia Alex
gentle, and no, are your best safety guarantee for your rabbit.
O
nce isolated inhabitants of backyard hutches, many of today’s rabbits live in the family home. Rabbits are extremely social animals who thrive in the company of others – it’s vital to their happiness and health. In addition to their human companions, rabbits can bond with some house cats, obedience-trained dogs and other spayed and neutered rabbits (even if they are the same gender). It’s important to make an honest assessment of your current pets before bringing a rabbit home. The most important consideration is that rabbits are prey animals and frightened easily, but also need time daily to safely run and exercise. Dogs and cats are predators, and a dog who guards the yard from other animals, or a cat that stalks birds, may think the rabbit is prey. Rabbits can be seriously injured by scratches and bites, and a bite to the back can cause paralysis. Don’t underestimate the prey drive in predator pets. Too often people think they can keep their rabbit separate from a dog or cat in another room or part of the house. In this situation, the rabbit always comes out the loser the second you fail to shut the door or gate.
We’re Adoptable! See page 15 8 | PETS IN THE CITY
An animal that is easily excited may just be trying to play and seriously injure the rabbit. Shock alone may be fatal to a rabbit. Dogs who respond to basic commands: down-stay,
Even rabbit introductions need special consideration. Although rabbits are extremely social, they are also very territorial, another characteristic of prey animals. Rabbits should be able to choose who they want to befriend. You’ll avoid weeks or months of frustration trying to bond two rabbits, as well as fights and the possibility of it not working if you don’t play matchmaker. Spayed female and neutered males are typically the easiest to bond. Size and appearance are unimportant to rabbits and you should follow their lead in picking a companion. Adopting an already bonded pair is a great way to bypass the dating and bonding process. With all animals, introductions should be done gradually, and rewards for good behavior are more effective than punishment during this time. You should know how to recognize all animals’ body language to avoid fights. For example, when a rabbit feels frightened, her ears will be back against her body, she may growl and lunge towards the perceived threat and could loudly thump her back foot. If a rabbit is ready to attack, her tail will be raised and may flick from side to side. Rabbits will scream if they are in extreme fear or pain. With that in mind, millions of people have rabbits, cats and dogs living together happily. The House Rabbit Society website is a great resource for detailed bonding procedures. Patience pays off, and ensuring your rabbit has the love and support of a companion that we can’t always give them is comforting, as is the constant source of happy, sweet and loving interactions between them.
Cynthia Alex has been a volunteer for the Humane Society of Utah for 23 years as an advocate for ending pet overpopulation. During that time she learned more, and became passionate about rabbits, adopting her first pair 22 years ago. She is married with two grown children, and would be an empty nester, except for their precious house rabbits, Ziggy, Lucy, Cooper and Lily. PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM
An Evolutionary Perspective on Cat Nutrition By Aspen Anderson, owner, Desert Raw Holistic Pet
D
id you know cats share over 99% of their DNA with their larger counterparts like lions, panthers, and tigers? While their outward appearance varies greatly, anyone with a cat knows that sometimes they have the self-confidence of cougars! We know the ancient Egyptians worshipped cats, beginning a cultural phenomenon that continues today, but how did that come to be? DNA comparisons show that cats were domesticated about 10,000 years ago, from wildcats. Archeological evidence of the first civilizations does not go back much further. Coincidence? Absolutely not. The two phenomena are intertwined because of grain storage. Without an abundance of food, there is no time for scholars, and without scholars, science, technology, mathematics and the study of stars, forms of writing, etc. cannot be developed. Cats became beneficial to the human goal of food storage because they don’t eat grain, but they do eat the rodents who eat the grain. So humans provided shelter to cats, who protected the food while not posing a threat to the grains themselves, and a mutually beneficial relationship began. What does that mean for our Tabbies, our Ragdolls, and our pampered fur babies who no longer serve the purpose of rodent protection? Well, first off, it means feeding them dry kibble filled with corn, wheat, and soy makes no logical sense. Despite the marketing, most dry foods are low in meat and even lower in quality, and extremely dry for a 10 | PETS IN THE CITY
species that evolved getting their moisture from their food. It also explains why it can be so hard to get cats to drink water – that’s not their natural source of hydration. From this evolutionary perspective, the concept of dry food becomes illogical. It makes sense, then, that many common diseases can be better managed with a moisture-rich diet of meat, preferably high-quality raw: • Obesity is a major problem in cats and can lead to diabetes, joint problems, thyroid concerns, etc. A high-carb diet is difficult to digest and creates insulin resistance, disrupts gut bacteria, and leads to weight gain. A low-carb diet of meat is easy to digest, promotes healthy weight, and avoids complications. • Urinary, kidney, and bladder issues can often be traced back to a lack of moisture. Because of their desert evolution, cats don’t have a welldeveloped sense of thirst and live in chronic dehydration. This puts stress on the kidneys and makes it difficult to move bacteria through the urinary tract. They need more moisture in their food! • Cancer feeds on sugar, and refined carbohydrates are basically digested as sugars. Again, a low-carb diet rich in moisture will drastically reduce the likelihood of cancer appearing. • Dental disease can also be better managed when you move away from dry food. Kibble does NOT clean teeth – if that were true, you wouldn’t need nearly as many expensive dental cleanings for yourself! In fact, carbohydrates stick to the teeth, leading to inflammation and expensive surgeries. You have to get ahead of your cat’s teeth before they become inflamed, and a raw diet of meat and bone do better at exfoliating the teeth and keeping them clean naturally. • The last common health issue I want to discuss is vomiting. It is very commonly a result of dry food. When cats are young their stomachs can stretch to accommodate the food they eat. But without moisture to soften the food, dry food irritates the stomach lining and over time it begins to harden so the cat begins to throw up excess food instead of being able to keep it down. Adding moisture (and a good probiotic) can go far in addressing this concern. By looking back to what cats ate before pet food became an industry in the early 1900s, we can identify many of the ways modern feeding has strayed from the way cats were biologically programmed to eat. Let’s use that information to make our cats healthier, happier, and quirkier than ever! PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM
Can You Help Me? when a cat appears on your doorstep By Foxi LeFierce
Y
ou come home from a long day of work, you’ve got six bags of groceries hanging off your arms, and all you can think of is having some dinner and relaxing. As you insert your key into the lock of the front door, you hear it. A tiny “meow” coming from under the porch step. As much as you might want to pretend you didn’t, you know you have to investigate because it’s going to be below freezing tonight. So you drop the groceries on the counter, pull on some junky clothes and go back outside… to find what appears to be a couple month-old gray kitten under your porch. The poor thing is obviously hungry and cold, but what can you – and should you – do to help the little one out? Whether feral or people-friendly, it’s important to make sure the cat has access to food, water and proper shelter. If feral, or if you have cats in your home and don’t want to introduce your lost friend to them due to health concerns or because she’s wearing a tag so she’s a temporary visitor, making a DIY shelter is incredibly easy, and can be made with a couple of plastic storage bins and some straw. You can Google “DIY feral cat shelter” or visit https://alleycatadvocates.org/communitycat-care-center/ creating-winter-shelters/ for simple instructions. The first thing to determine is whether you’ve found a feral cat or a cat that’s had human contact in the past. Feral cats and kittens are usually scared of people and will run if you try to approach them. We have wonderful cat colony support programs and Trap Neuter Release resources in Utah. If you have a cat colony you want to help, or wish to remove a feral cat, please reach out to Best Friends and they can assist you with your feral cat inquiry. When you find a peoplefriendly cat, you should always start by checking for a microchip. Once you’ve contained the cat, you can take her to any veterinary clinic. They can scan for a chip, free of charge. Many Petsmarts have vet clinics and if it’s after hours, there are 12 | PETS IN THE CITY
24-hour emergency veterinary offices. If you find that the animal is not chipped, you can begin the next step: trying to determine if the animal is lost, or if she needs a home. Social media is a great tool to use when trying to find her owner. Posting on your own pages and asking your friends to share your post is a great place to begin. You would be surprised how “shares” of your post can help spread the word and speed up the search. Also, there are many Facebook pages like Utah Lost and Found Pets. Your local garage sale and yard sale Facebook sites are great resources to help a lost or found animal. Old school methods include checking for flyers in the neighborhood and at local businesses, especially local vets. You, in turn, can post found flyers in your area. A word of warning with posting found pet flyers and posts. Unfortunately, there are people who search the lost and found postings who do not have the animal’s best interest at heart, nor are they the real owner. It’s best to post a little less information about the animal when searching for the owner. There are ways to safeguard your lost friend. Find a unique marking or something on the tag of the animal that only an owner would know. Do not share it on the post; instead, ask for identifying marks, etc. from anyone who contacts you. This helps safeguard the cat and ensures she is indeed going home with her true owner. If you can’t locate the owner, it is standard to take a found animal to the shelter, in the city in which she was found. It may feel like this is the worst for the pet, but most people start their search for their lost pet search at the shelters. Also, Utah law supports this protocol. You can always check on the cat and see if the owner reclaims her. If you’re concerned about their policy, or you’ve bonded with your new friend, ask what the shelter’s stray hold period is. After that time lapses, another adopter, rescue organization, or even you, can adopt the cat. Hearing that meow under the porch is without a doubt the best thing that could happen to that cat. Whether she’s lost and you help her find her home, she’s never had a home but will forever thank you for helping her find the family she didn’t know existed, or she’s feral but can live a healthier life, you’ve just become her guardian angel.
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Single
RUBEN
Male / Adult / Domestic Shorthair I’m a goofy, playful cat. I have the cutest knobby tail. I love people and flop over for attention and love. I enjoy playing with cats and really like it when a human plays with a feather or string toy with me. I’d love to be adopted with my brother, Ivan, because we’ve always been together. To meet us, contact CAWS at caws.org.
and Looking for
e v o L
IVAN
TAURUS
We are big, not only in size but in personality and affection. We love to play, hang out in a cat tower and get lots of human attention! I like everyone I meet. Trey may take a minute to size people up but then he’s right there with me, vying for attention. We are OK with other cats and may be fine with a mellow dog. For more information about us, please contact CAWS at caws.org.
Female / 3 Years Old / Pit Bull I’m a total people dog and love kids! I need to be an only pet. I have severe allergies and am on a strict diet. I’m looking for a family who will give me the attention I deserve. To meet me, contact CAWS at caws.org.
LINK
I’m heartworm positive, and am being treated for it. I’m a happy boy just looking for a permanent gig. I love having a family to love so much that I really don’t like to share them. At this time my ideal home would not have any other dogs, cats, or little kids. I’m eager to please and pick up on training very quickly. To meet me, contact CAWS at caws.org.
Are you a single lady looking for a dog to make you feel safe and secure? I’m your guy. I love to romp and play in the yard. I enjoy playing with other dogs, but I’m choosy about who it is. I have a protective nature and prefer women; no kids or cats for me right now. Contact Utah Animal Adoption Center at utahanimals.org.
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I’m house and crate trained, and love older kids and playing ball. I walk well on a leash and enjoy taking walks. I’m super smart and learn news things quickly. I would do best in home with kids over eight so I don’t knock everyone down, a back yard to run and play in and a family committed to furthering my training and being my leader. I can be good with calmer dogs, but not with high energy dogs. Please apply at www.rescuerovers.org.
MACK AND ZOCHS
Female / 2 Years Old/ Bonded Pair No buts about it, we are both gentle rabbits and would make a great addition to your family. We are good with kids, and have super soft fur that will melt your heart! Call the Humane Society of Utah. 801-261-2919, ext. 295 for information..
BROWN BETTY
LUNA
LUCIAN
Male / 3 Years Old / Pit Bull
I’m obsessed with toys and can’t get enough playing. I can be shy when startled but I recover quickly. I like all people. I’ve always been with my brother and I’d really like to be adopted with him. To meet us, contact CAWS at caws.org.
I try hard not to brag, but I’m a Himalayan rabbit. Not only do I have beautiful markings, but Himalayan rabbits are one of the oldest and calmest breeds. I’m a sweet guy. Call the Humane Society of Utah, 801-261-2919, ext. 295 for more information.
Male / Adult / Bonded Pair
Male / 1 Year Old / Lab/Shepherd Mix
Male / Adult / Domestic Short Hair
Male / 7 Months Old / Short Hair
DOZER AND TREY
ALMON (AKA PARKER)
Male / 4 Years Old / Border Collie/Shepherd Mix
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Female / Senior / Bulldog Mix I’ve been with Rescue Rovers for a year because I don’t show well. I become animated when I see my foster mom and her daughters, barking and begging to get out of the kennel to see them. My head is scarred, so I can look scary to people, but I’m really not. I do need to be an only pet. I’m very loving with my family, especially the young girls I live with. I’m house trained, kennel trained, leash trained and love to play ball. Please come meet me. Apply today at www.rescuerovers.org.
FRANNY
Female / 4 Years Old / Domestic Long Hair I am extremely friendly, and love affection and attention. I’m a service cat and quickly bond with special needs children. Patience is needed as I will hiss and growl while getting used to my new home. Visit Paws for Life at www.pflu.org for more information.
TWINKIE
GARFIELD
Male / 5 Years Old / Domestic Short Hair I was turned into the shelter when my family had to move. I’m declawed, so I’m an indoor-only kitty. I love attention, and have been around dogs and cats. I am very mellow, and just like to lay around and wait for someone to give me love. I’m also good with kids. Visit Paws for Life at www. pflu.org for more information.
Male / 8 Years Old / Labrador Retriever Mix I’m a high-energy boy! I love to play fetch. I’m learning to walk nicely on a leash and not jump up to say hi. I could possibly share a home with other animals. I’m looking for a fun-loving and active family. Call Nuzzles & Co, 435-6495441, for more information.
JUNGA
Female / 8 years Old / Domestic Long Hair I am a sweet and loving older lady! I’ve been in the shelter for over 200 days. I love to sit in your lap while getting treats and being brushed. I do get along with other animals. Visit me at Salt Lake County Animal Services or email Mallred@slco.org, for more information.
ROO
Female / Adult / Cattle Dog I’m not fond of kennel time or crate time. I’m happiest when I’m outside. A secure fencedin yard is a requirement for me. I’m bright so I’ll be fun to work with on obedience training, games and tricks. Contact Utah Animal Adoption Center at utahanimals.org.
MOMMA NELL
Female / 4 Years Old / Chihuahua
Female / 4 Years Old / Calico Domestic Shorthair I’m a beautiful cat who’s sweet, friendly, and outgoing. I love people and get along with some other cats. I love talking to humans and being the center of attention. I’m sure to be a loving companion for years to come. Call Nuzzles & Co, 435-649-5441, for more information.
16 | PETS IN THE CITY
AVA
Female / 1 Year Old / Labrador Retriever Mix I’m a happy girl who loves to play. I like to play with other dogs and don’t seem to mind cats. I’m a smart girl who is eager to learn and please, and love to be around people! Call Nuzzles & Co, 435-6495441, for more information.
My beloved owner passed away, and now I need a home where I’m the top dog and without kids. I love to go on walks, and need daily exercise. I may need space and time to adjust to my new home. To meet me, contact CAWS at caws.org. PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM
I would love to be your new snuggle buddy. I am a very sweet girl, but also a little independent, so I don’t mind doing my own thing while you’re not around and will be happy to see you when you are home. I would do best in a home with older children. I require a special diet. Please email utahadoptions@bestfriends.org to meet me.
I’m an athletic guy looking for an active partner. I’m into fitness and love to swim. My perfect date is going out for a game of fetch, followed by cheeseburgers and cuddling on the couch while watching a movie. Visit me at Salt Lake County Animal Services or email kpacker@slco.org.
ITTY BITTY
Female / 8 Years Old / Domestic Short Hair I want to be your new best friend. I’m a mellow girl looking for a mellow home. I am very sweet once I’ve had time to warm up to you. I have Feline Stomatitis. This is a chronic condition involving inflammation around the teeth and oral cavity and will require regular management with a veterinarian. Please email utahadoptions@bestfriends.org to meet me or get more details.
Male / 7 Years Old / Domestic Short Hair
Female / 3 Years Old / Chihuahua
I am a sweet, quiet girl looking for a place to call home. I can be shy at first, but once I warm up I will be the best snuggle buddy! I am very mellow and easy going, so I would do best in a quiet, calm home. I love getting face scratches. Please email utahadoptions@bestfriends.org to meet me.
Female / 9 Years Old / Domestic Short Hair
Male / 7 Years Old / Pit Bull Mix
DWIGHT (ADOPTION FEE DONATED!)
BRANDY
Female / 7 Years Old / Domestic Short Hair
MAE
IGGY
Female / 1 Year Old / Short Hair If you’re looking for a house rabbit, look no further. I love to lay around and cuddle, but also like to run around and “binky” (do the rabbit happy dance)! Call the Humane Society of Utah, 801-514-5383, ext. 295 for more information.
TRINKET
I am a special butterfly. I’m the type of kitty who will be happy to greet you when you get home and never leave your side. I’ll even love sitting on your shoulders! Do you have room in your heart for my sweet affection? Please email utahadoptions@bestfriends.org to meet me.
PEPPER
Female / 6 Years Old /Black Domestic Shorthair
FRENCHIE
Female / 7 Years Old / Domestic Short Hair
Four months ago, I had puppies. I’ve been a very good mom but my Foster Mom says it’s time for me to be pampered and find a home of my very own where I can be the center of the Universe. I am house trained and get along with the other dogs and a cat. Coming from a hoarding situation, I was terrified and did not trust humans. I have come a long way the last couple of months but still need to find someone who is willing to work with me until I can trust them. Being around my foster sisters helps me see how much fun life can be and that humans can be trusted so another dog may help me be the best I can be. Are you up for the challenge? I promise, I will be worth it! Please apply at www.rescuerovers.org.
SIREN
I’m a gorgeous cat who will lure you in with my beautiful coat and lovely gold eyes. Unlike my namesake though, I’m sweet and friendly and only want your love! I’m just looking for a family to call my own. Call Nuzzles & Co, 435649-5441, for more information.
NALA
I am a loving, adventuresome kitty looking for my forever home. I have done well with other cats and should do well with them in a home with a proper introduction. I would be a great best friend, so come meet me to see if I am a good fit for your home. Please email utahadoptions@bestfriends.org to meet me.
MINNIE & BOLI
Female & Male / 12 Years Old / Chihuahua Pair We may be 12 years old, but we’re young at heart. We are the sweetest pair of chihuahuas. We’ve always had each other for comfort. Our foster family says we are playful, great with other dogs and cats, and are housebroken. Visit Paws for Life at www.pflu.org for more information.
WESLEY
Male / 3 Years Old / Chihuahua/Terrier Mix I’m extremely playful and active, always ready for belly rubs and want to snuggle with you at night. I love to give kisses and am always wagging my tail. I’m great with other dogs and playful with cats. I should only live with older children. To meet me, contact CAWS at caws.org.
Creating a Mixed Species Home it can work – here’s how By Sarah Tyler
H
aving grown up in a household with at least four species of animals living in it at one time, animal dynamics has guided my fur-family decision making through the years. Currently, our home contains an elderly male Maine Coon cat, a mature adult male Lab-English Setter mix, a female Great Dane puppy and a young rescue bunny whose breeding is a mystery to me. Each of these animals has a unique history that brought them into our family home as we only adopt animals that have either come from a shelter, an unsafe or at-risk care situation, an outright dangerous or abusive environment, or are unwanted/displaced. My childhood home followed a similar path. This led to a very mixed house, with multiple birds, dogs, cats, reptiles, fish, and rodents. We wanted these animals to live safely and comfortably, while being a part of the family. The best way to do this, is simply one animal at a time. Let’s assume that you’ve already got a pet. Are you viewed as the alpha? If not, then no further consideration should be made into bringing another pet into your home. You must be the alpha to keep order in the pack, especially if you plan to mix typical predator and prey species. As the alpha, you’ll be able to introduce almost any animal into your pack with time and a lot of management. Recognize the risk factor on the new introduction. Are you introducing a puppy into your home with an older cat? The risks in this scenario fall mostly to the cat. Once you’ve identified your at-risk party, you allow them to be the dominant pet in your home. First, allow the cat to approach the puppy (puppy is restrained in your lap as this paints the picture that the new pet belongs to you, the alpha, in the cat’s mind and so instills a level of acceptance and respect). Let the cat sniff, hiss, run off... whatever makes her comfortable. Don’t force the introduction to go a certain way. If the cat becomes aggressive towards the puppy, protect the puppy and reprimand the cat mildly (we use a specific sound that we use in training).
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Then, place the puppy back in her kennel and focus on the cat. Calm or comfort the cat as needed. Give a reward if the introduction went well to further the positive association with the new pup. Continue this type of introduction until your original
pet no longer shows aggression towards the new addition. Neutrality or indifference is a positive response to a new pet. Next, establish the cat as the dominant pet between the cat and the dog. Feed your cat first. Don’t let the puppy eat from the cat’s bowl. Allow the cat to eat from the puppy’s bowl, and pull the puppy away from her bowl occasionally to allow the cat to eat from it, in addition to putting your hands into the dog’s food and interrupting her feedings. This establishes both you and the cat as being dominant over the new pet. Claim space for your cat. Does your original pet have a favorite chair, bed, pillow, etc.? Don’t allow the new addition onto this space. Instead, foster a place of safety and comfort for the new addition in a spot that is hers. Allow the cat to share this space with the puppy to further claim the cat’s dominant role, but don’t let the cat bully the puppy out of their space. If this occurs, again, mildly reprimand the cat, and depending on the level of aggression, either remove her or allow the cat and puppy to share the space. Something to note, this is all at the introduction level. As the alpha, you’re creating the dominance order in your home for what will keep your most at-risk pet safe. After these first steps, the day-to-day will become increasingly more interactive between the pets. Both sides will begin to test limits. Keep an eye on them and don’t leave them unattended together. If either pet pushes the limits too much, intervene and protect the other animal. This will create a safe space overall for both pets. It also continues to cement in the animals’ minds that you are still the boss. Over time, the pets will come to live hospitably together. Something to consider: not all pets get along. Just like there are people in this world that you don’t like, the same thing is true of animals. Never commit to an adoption without allowing your pet to spend some time with the prospect first. This is especially important as your fold grows. When we introduced the Great Dane, I was worried about her size for our bunny. With proper correction she’s done well since her predatory instinct is low. If she’d been obsessed with the bunny, this could have been dangerous over time and she wouldn’t have been able to live with us, but it only took mild redirection to shift her focus. When introducing predator and prey to one another, make sure to claim the prey as your own. As the alpha, when you stake a claim on something, your pets will view this item as an extension of yourself. Claim another animal by putting your smell on them through petting and holding prior to the introduction. Additionally, when you set them down, stand between the pets and block the other pet from being able to come close, pressing forward against the predator pet anytime they try to approach uninvited. After working through these interactions, it’ll be clear to your predator pet that the prey pet belongs to you. But again, your pets will test the limits as it’s their nature to dominate one another, so be vigilant in your monitoring of mixed species interactions.
HSU 2017 Recap By Gene Baierschmidt
E
very January, the Humane Society of Utah (HSU) tallies final numbers for the previous year, to assess progress, and set new goals for the next year. As a local nonprofit organization, HSU is completely transparent with our goals and recorded activity. A comprehensive annual report is provided to the public and published on the website each year at the annual members meeting. This year’s meeting will be held February 26, 6:30 p.m. We’ve seen continued progress at HSU, which is the largest private animal shelter in the state, and we’re proud to report our accomplishments in 2017. As an open-admission shelter, we admit any companion animal we can legally accept and work hard to ensure every healthy and treatable pet who enters our facility will be placed in a loving home. In 2017, 11,140 pets received positive outcomes, and we maintained no-kill standards for both dogs and cats for the third year in a row. The HSU Transfer & Rescue program partners with over 320 other groups and facilities. We transferred 2,616 animals at risk of euthanasia to our facility in 2017 to reduce the burden on other smaller shelters and rescue groups across Utah and neighboring western states. We also worked with Best Friends Animal Society to accept dogs from the Hurricane Harvey disaster in Texas who were in need of placement. Additionally, for the first time in our history, we transferred in animals from another country. As a Humane Society of the United States Emergency Placement Partner, we accepted dogs from a South Korean meat farm that was closed by Humane Society International and successfully placed all of the dogs into new homes where they could be rehabilitated. Our veterinarians spayed/neutered 10,050 dogs, cats and rabbits – 3,665 of which were client-owned animals and 6,051 were performed on
our shelter pets. The HSU Clinic also administered 109,935 vaccinations on dogs and cats to ensure the health of client-owned pets in the community. We performed over 618 other surgical procedures and 1,219 dental checks on special needs shelter pets to improve their health before adoption.
I’m Adoptable! See page 16
The HSU Foster Department plays a crucial role in helping care for animals in need of extra attention. We depend on foster volunteers to care for ill, shy, injured or baby animals in their homes until they’re ready to be adopted. Over 2,734 animals were cared for through the Foster program in 2017. Our second H.E.R.O. (Humane Educators Reaching Out) Summer Camp for children was held for first through eighth graders. We reached 10,703 children through our Humane Education program, which teaches proper pet care, pet safety, how to greet a new dog, the importance of spaying/neutering a pet, and other age-appropriate animal welfare issues. We strongly believe in educating youth about animal welfare and responsible pet care to help change the world for homeless pets. We couldn’t have provided the lifesaving services and programs we offered last year without the assistance of our Volunteer Program. Volunteers donated over 37,032 hours in 2017 to assist in adoptions, fostering, events and fundraisers, cleaning and maintenance, animal care and enrichment, photography, and other services as needed. The Humane Society of Utah has a full-time animal cruelty investigator who conducted 177 investigations, 215 animal control inspections, and 350 pet store inspections. During the 2017 Utah State Legislature session, we advocated to ban gas chamber euthanasia and define shelter for dogs in extreme weather. Both bills, unfortunately, did not pass and will be supported again in 2018. We reflect on the past year with deep gratitude for the donations, sponsorships, and other contributions received, without which none of the above would be possible. For every life saved, there is another in need of help. We can Change Their World with the continued support of our community and people like you.
Gene Baierschmidt is the Executive Director at the Humane Society of Utah. For nearly 30 years, he has been working to eliminate pain, fear and suffering in all animals through the many programs and services offered at the HSU, and has witnessed many improvements and changes in animal welfare over this time. 20 | PETS IN THE CITY
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Save Them All Saturdays a new adoption option at the Gateway By Temma Martin
B
est Friends Animal Society in Utah is excited to announce a fun and exciting new event called Save Them All Saturday, every second Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Gateway, 10 N. Rio Grande, in Salt Lake City.
Our friends at The Gateway wanted to help Best Friends build on the momentum of our extremely successful Holiday Mini Super Adoption in December, where 144 lives were saved in just one day. So they invited Best Friends to create a monthly group adoption event, and offered space near the fountain where shelters and rescue groups can set up shop. The first event took place in January, and was a great success, with more than 50 dogs and cats adopted in only a few hours. Save Them All Saturday is a group adoption concept with dogs and cats from some of our No Kill Utah coalition partners. January’s event featured animals from CAWS – Community Animal Welfare Society, Rescue Rovers Dog Adoptions, Arctic Breed Rescue, Nuzzles & Co, Pet Samaritan Fund and Salt Lake County Animal Services. All adoptable pets are spayed/ neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.
Courtesy of Best Friends Animal Society
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Best Friends is very grateful to The Gateway for providing this opportunity, and the event is expected to grow with more groups participating as the excitement builds.
Courtesy of Best Friends Animal Society
As we enter 2018, our NKUT goal of making Utah no kill by 2019 is just on the horizon. This goal means that animal shelters will have achieved a combined save rate of 90 percent – that is, at least 90 percent of the animals entering the shelter system leave alive through adoption, rescue by another animal group, or being returned to their owners. Adoption events like Save Them All Saturday are very important to helping us reach our no kill goal. People sometimes feel overwhelmed going into shelter after shelter looking for a pet to adopt, so group adoption events, both small and large, offer a wonderful opportunity for potential adopters to find their perfect pet from a variety of animals outside the shelter setting. Another good way to “shop” for an adoptable pet is to visit petfinder.com. We know that thousands of people in Utah welcome a new pet into their homes annually. As of last year, we determined that if only seven more people per day chose to adopt a pet from a shelter or rescue group, the NKUT goal would be achieved. That’s a very attainable goal, and new adoption opportunities like Save Them All Saturdays are key to getting us there in the coming year.
Together, we can save them all. Courtesy of Best Friends Animal Society
Temma Martin is a public relations specialist for Best Friends Animal Society, a national animal welfare organization dedicated exclusively to ending the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters. Best Friends runs the nation’s largest no-kill sanctuary for companion animals, as well as programs in partnership with rescue groups and shelters. PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM
801-990-7422 • 9486 S. Union Square (700 East), Sandy (SW Corner of Intersection, SW Corner of Shopping Center)
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SAYING GOODBYE
By Tonya Landon
Q. I took my 9 year-old dog to the veterinarian because she was having a hard time getting up in the morning. The vet said she has arthritis. How can I help her live a more comfortable life? – Mario A. I am going on 10 years old this year and I am starting to have some arthritis also. Arthritis is common in older dogs (and people). The signs are slowed movement, pain, lameness, stiffness, pain when picked up and reluctance to walk, jump or go up stairs. The great news is there are a lot of ways to help your older dog be comfortable and still enjoy life as she moves into her golden years.
Boots Boots our cat was a special breed She was so smart it is agreed
Slim down and exercise. It is easy for older dogs to become overweight because they don’t move around as much as they did when they were younger. With the lack of exercise and the same amount of food, the dog becomes fat (plump, overweight, pudgy, round, stout, well fed, and/or rotund.) The extra weight places strain on the joints which will worsen the pain of the arthritis. Keeping up with a short, low impact and controlled exercise routine will help keep her muscles toned and keep her joints from stiffening up.
She’d entertain herself with her toy She created her very own joy She’d run outside at times to play She would love us in a special way Now she’s gone to heaven above With our good Lord she shares her love
Traction. The use of pet ramps or pet steps can help your dog get on furniture or into the car. Putting down rugs on slippery floors and keeping your dog’s nails short and hair in-between the pads trimmed can also help. Paw-Pads are self-adhesive traction pads, and Dr. Buzby’s Toe Grips can help with traction. Environment. Older dogs can have a hard time keeping themselves warm. If an older dog becomes cold, it could make her arthritis worse. Keep your dog’s living area warmer if you need to or offer her a heated dog bed. Supplements. A daily anti-inflammatory and pain reducer such as Rimadyl (sold through your veterinarian) can really help your older dog. If you want to try a more natural route there are a lot of herbal supplements on the market for older dogs. Some of the best include ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glucosamine and chondroitin, boswellia, white willow bark, meadowsweet and Green Lipped Mussels. Some natural remedies can react with medications your dog may be on, so check with your veterinarian before starting any natural products. Tonya Landon is a professional dog trainer with Diamonds in the Ruff. She rescued and trained Stetson, a small terrier with aggression issues, to be cast in the title role of the 2012 Stetson, Street Dog of Park City, a short film adapted from the children’s book written by Jeanine Heil.
Patches 15 years Patches, my beautiful calico, has been gone a year already. Her ashes sit in a beautiful urn on my desk. Her memory is fresh in my mind every day, and my wife and I miss her. We have four cats now but Patches was with us fifteen glorious years. Our hearts are heavy with sadness from her loss. She was the big mama cat, kind of the boss of the others she lived with. She was so loveable and loved us deeply, I’m sure. Now I pray she has been taken by our good Lord, and runs about within the gates of Heaven. God bless, Patches. With love, Mom and Dad
If you have questions for Stetson, please email askstetson@gmail.com
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Dog Booties
salt. The salt is particularly dangerous if they lick it off their paws.
beyond fashion for function By April Northstrom
D
o dogs really need booties or boots or socks? What’s the point and do they work? Most may look fashionable, but they have great function that can benefit your pooch. Popular among sled dogs and Iditarod racers, booties are designed for all types of dogs. Active dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors can reap the benefits of protective boots on their paws. Rugged terrain, rocky trails and slippery pavement can wear out or even cut the pads on your dog’s paws. Protecting them can allow your dog to stay active without injury. In the summertime, hot asphalt can be dangerous for dogs—imagine walking around without shoes in the middle of July. Manufacturers have created lightweight sandals and water shoes for dogs that protect their pads, but doesn’t impact their ability to move.
Once you decide to try dog booties, your biggest hurdle may be getting your pooch to wear them. It takes practice and there are several varieties to choose from. The most popular are the ones with Velcro straps that secure them in place.
Did you know...?
During the Yukon Quest, a musher will change between 2,000 and 3,000 booties during the course of the race. Changing booties is necessary when they become wet or fly off a dog’s paws.
It’s also important to keep your dogs protected during the cold winter months. Dogs are more susceptive to frost bite and winter injuries than many people realize. Snow, ice and salt on the roads can be a threat to their pads and their health. Snow often gets stuck between a dog’s toes and pads, along with ice and
Booties of all sizes, from teacup to Great Dane can be found through online retailers, pet supply stores or a veterinarian. You can expect a sock-like boot with a strap and a soft sole. The variety of soles offer several types of protection from heat, snow, ice and salt. Start introducing the booties slowly during short periods of time and gradually increasing until your dog is more comfortable.
Other ways to ensure that your dog’s paws are protected include trimming the hair between their pads. Snow, dirt, and ice can build up and tangle with longer hair. This causes matting and makes it uncomfortable for dogs to walk or run. Using a balm specific to dogs will help keep pads soft and healthy. It’s best to put on a thin layer of balm to each paw before going out on a winter stroll. After walks through snow and ice, wipe the paws again and apply another layer. This keeps the pads from drying out and cracking. Bag Balm® is available in most grocery stores and pet stores. Petroleum jelly can be used as an alternative. Beyond fashion, booties for dogs are functional and especially important for active dogs. From nylon to fleece, dog booties are not only for sled dogs or active breeds. All dogs who encounter wet, hot or extremely cold weather can benefit from a quality pair of shoes in their wardrobe.
benefits of dog booties • Non-slip materials protect from wet terrain • Protect from hot asphalt in summertime • Keeps paws from cracking in harsh terrain • Helps dogs with sensitive paws maintain activity • Keeps salt, de-icer and other chemical off of paws
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JOHNNY
KYLIE
ICHIGO
CHARLIE
AUTUMN
OOCA
TAGGART
QULIE
MONROE
CAM
CHACO
Do you want to share a photo of your pet? Email your high-resolution photo & your pet’s name to info@petsinthecitymagazine.com. PETSINTHECITYMAGAZINE.COM 28 | PETS IN THE CITY
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