The Pe Lovers Guide

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Ways To Keep Your Pet Safe During Summer

YOU MUST CHANGE – Then Your Dog Will Too!

Find us. Like us.

Welcome Pet Lo ers!

It’s summer and with summer comes change, change in the weather, in our gardens, and certainly in our pets. In this issue we wanted to share ways to keep your Pets Safe during summer months.

Let’s not forget ourselves - it’s important to take the time to find balance, use sun screen and stay hydrated.

In this issue, we are so happy to include an article by Susan Raymond of CALM K9 Dog training. As a specialist who helps dogs with mild to significant behavioral problems, Susan works with all breeds, from youngsters to seniors and from the small toys to the big‘uns. Susan approaches training from the dog’s perspective, in combination with a foundation of respect, patience, knowledge and consistency, creates an optimal environment for dogs

I’ve come to know many veterinarians throughout Solano, Napa and Yolo County.

I have chosen to acknowledge the following practices for their compassion, high quality services and customer satisfaction; Most of all, for the Veterinarians’ bedside manner!

to understand what is being asked of them and to happily and willingly comply.

Don’t forget July is Adopt A Shelter Rabbit Month. Believe it or not, there are many Rabbits at the Shelters needing loving homes. But like many other furry pets, rabbits have different personalities. So before considering a pet rabbit, please educate yourself about the responsibilities of owning a rabbit. Andrea Austin has provided us with wonderful information on how to handle or understand a bunny.

Many cats are a dynamic of breeds these days and possibly Maine Coon. If you’re wondering if your cat might be Maine Coon, read about their traits inside this issue. Maine Coons are wonderful breeds!

Dr. Singh, DVM American Canyon Vet Hospital

On the Cover, Dr Thornburgh, DVM has two beautiful Rottweiler’s posing for a photo shoot with the Best Pet Photographer in Northern California, Pet Prints Photography.

We hope your summer is off to a good start and will be full of adventure! Mark your calendars for the many great events, hosted by non-profits, happening in various area this summer. See inside for details

Thank you for your continued support and readership.

Warmly,

Michelle Morris-Adams Owner/Publisher

Please feel free to send comments, suggestions, criticisms or praises to my email: thepetloversguide@comcast.net For advertising, please contact me at 707-731-9775 or thepetloversguide@comcast.net

http://www.americancanyonveterinaryhospital.com/

Dr. Olm, DVM Southampton Pet Hospital http://southamptonpethospital.com/

Dr. Thornburgh, DVM Valley Oak Veterinary Hospital http://www.valleyoakvet.com/

Dr. Sybil Murray, DVM http://www.visitingvetcal.com/

The Pet Lovers Guide is free and published quarterly. The purpose of the magazine is to provide people with information pertaining to pet-related services, products and organizations in our local area. We also promote health, wellness and prevention by educating the public in all aspects of raising a pet. This is a complete guide to pet-related business in Solano, Napa and Yolo County.

Choosing a vet that is right for you and your dog or cat is not always easy. You must find a veterinarian that you connect with and that communicates well. So take the time to find the right fit.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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guide

PeT L VeRS THE

OWNER/PUBLISHER Michelle Morris-Adams

EDITOR Lauren Silva

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Kirk deVerteuil

DESIGNER Crystal Scott

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Susan Raymond, Calm K9 Dog Training Andrea Austin Sarah Crosier Sandra Sawchuk, DVM

COVER PHOTO Jean Walker, Pet Prints Photography

The Pet Lovers Guide is free and published quarterly.

The purpose of the magazine is to provide people with information pertaining to pet-related services, products and organizations in our local area. We also promote health, wellness and prevention by educating the public in all aspects of raising a pet.

This is a complete guide to pet-related business in Solano, Napa and Yolo County.

If you would like to contribute letters, stories or advertising, please contact Michelle at: PHONE 707-207-3031 or 707-731-9775 EMAIL thepetloversguide@comcast.net ONLINE www.thepetloversguide.com

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Dog Lovers, Furry Friends Fight Cancer with Bark For Life

22 How can you tell if your cat really is a Maine Coon?

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How to choose the right veterinarian for your dog

25 First You Must Change – Then Your Dog Will Too!

13 UC Davis’ Pioneering Nasolacrimal Endoscopy & Stenting Procedure Successful in First Cat 17 21 ways to keep pet safe during summer months 19 Do you understand your bunny rabbits personality?

MORE...

16 In Loving Memory 27 Resource Directory If you would like the Pet Lovers Guide to be mailed to you directly, the cost is $1200 for 6 issues.

Please email your address to: thepetloversguide@comcast.net.

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Dog Lovers, Furry Friends Fight Cancer with

BARK FOR LIFE Event is part of American Cancer Society Relay For Life movement

By Lizette Lawrence

F

amilies and their furry friends will celebrate the lifelong contributions of canine caregivers to cancer patients at the American Cancer Society Bark For Life event on August 20, 2016 at Benicia Middle School, from 8am to 12pm. The celebration will include doggie games, dress-up contests, music, food, and doggie laps. Before the event, participants ask family and friends to support their efforts financially to help the American Cancer Society save lives from cancer.

“The Bark For Life event is an opportunity for people to celebrate canine companionship and fight back against cancer with their dogs,” said James Long from Pups N Purrz. “Every person who has been close to a cancer experience and has a dog in their life is invited.”

The event is part of the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Benicia. Funds raised help the American Cancer Society save lives by funding groundbreaking research, supporting education efforts, and providing free information and critical services for cancer patients.

Last year, more than 20,000 registered canine and caregiver participants at 300 Bark For Life events across the country raised $1.2 million.

To register, or for more information, visit relayforlife.org/barkbeniciaca or call the American Cancer Society at 707-720-0104.

About the American Cancer Society The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of 2.5 million volunteers saving lives and fighting for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. As the largest voluntary health organization, the Society's efforts have contributed to a 22 percent decline in cancer death rates in the US during the past two decades, and a 50 percent drop in smoking rates.

Thanks in part to our progress; nearly 14.5 million Americans who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will celebrate more birthdays this year. We're determined to finish the fight against cancer. As the nation's largest private, not-for-profit investor in cancer research, we're finding cures and ensuring people facing cancer have the help they need and continuing the fight for access to quality health care, lifesaving screenings, clean air, and more.

For more information, to get help, or to join the fight, visit cancer.org or call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345.

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How to Choose the Right Veterinarian for Your Dog

By Drs. Foster & Smith Educational Staff

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hoosing a veterinarian that is right for you

and your dog is not always easy. You want to find a veterinarian with whom you and your dog can feel comfortable and can build a trusting relationship. And you want to find that veterinarian before you get a dog - the veterinarian may be able to help you select a pet that will fit your expectations and lifestyle. If you have moved, or for some other reason need to change veterinarians, find a new veterinarian before your dog becomes ill.

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TYPES OF VETERINARY PRACTICES Different types of veterinary practices exist. Those that provide care to companion animals include the following: i

Small animal practice: These veterinarians work mainly with dogs and cats. Many also care for pocket pets, reptiles, ferrets, and birds.

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Mixed animal practice: These veterinarians are commonly found in more rural areas as they work with pets as well as horses, cattle, and other farm animals.

i

Emergency clinics: These clinics are very helpful in the event an emergency occurs outside of your veterinarian's regular office hours.

They do not typically handle routine check-ups, vaccinations, or spays/ neuters. Emergency clinics may also see patients who need 24-hour care or exams with specialized equipment to perform procedures such as ultrasonography or endoscopy that the veterinarians in the surrounding area do not have at their facilities.

i

Exotics clinics: These veterinarians specialize in caring for pocket pets, reptiles, birds, ferrets, and species other than dogs and cats.

i

Avian clinics: These veterinarians specialize in companion bird health.

i

Dog only clinics: These veterinarians limit their practice to dogs only.

i

Mobile practices: Some veterinarians will travel to your house to treat your pet just like some travel to farms to treat farm animals.

The veterinarians that limit the species of patients to which they provide care, such as 'dog-only,' are able to devote more time to learning about that particular species. This allows for more in-depth knowledge of disease processes in that species. In many multi-doctor practices, the doctors have individual interests which they pursue. They are available to consult with other doctors in the clinic on those subjects.

WHERE TO FIND A VETERINARIAN...

Ask friends, family, and co-workers that have pets: i i i i

Where do they take their pets and why?

Do they like the location?

Is the staff friendly and do they seem knowledgeable?

Does the doctor fully explain the diagnosis, treatment plan, and expected outcome of a disease? i Are they comfortable asking the doctor questions?

Breed or training clubs: If you have a certain breed of dog, breed clubs may be a good source of information when looking for a veterinarian. This is very helpful if you have plans to breed your pet, since a knowledgeable veterinarian is a great asset. If you go to dog training classes, ask the instructors and other participants where they go and why.

Local directories: The yellow pages or business pages of a phone book normally will provide information on local veterinarians' names, addresses, and phone numbers.

THINGS TO LOOK FOR WHEN VISITING A VETERINARY CLINIC...

Office hours and emergencies: i i i i i

What are the regular office hours?

What hours are the doctors available for appointments?

How are emergencies handled during business hours?

How are emergencies handled after hours and on holidays?

How long does it take to get an appointment for a wellness exam versus a 'sick pet' appointment?

Veterinarian and staff: i i i i i i

How are questions over the phone handled?

Are the staff knowledgeable and courteous?

Are phone calls answered quickly?

Are you put on 'hold' for long periods of time?

Can you see a specific doctor if you are at a multi-doctor practice?

Do you feel comfortable with the receptionist, technician, and doctor?

The relationship between you, your dog, and your veterinarian will hopefully last many years, so take time to find the right 'fit.'

Fees and payment: Do not make cost your determining factor when choosing a veterinarian. It is very difficult to compare costs for medical services because every veterinarian practices differently. Expect to pay a fair price for the services received. In a critical situation, cost is usually not your first concern, so choose quality care above all else. Your pet is more than a financial investment. Along with cost, find out: i i i

What methods of payment are accepted?

When is payment due?

Are credit cards accepted?

Services: i i i i i i i i i i i i

Veterinarian with a young dogWhat types of services are available?

Medical exams?

Surgery, including orthopedic?

Dentistry?

Radiology (x-rays)?

Ultrasonography?

Endoscopy?

Nutrition counseling?

Behavior counseling?

Laboratory testing?

Are the veterinarians willing to refer pets to specialists? If so, whom?

Do they have auxiliary services such as t 1VQQZ DMBTTFT t (SPPNJOH

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SPECIALISTS The following is a partial list of specialties that have board-certification:

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Facilities: i i i i

Is the practice clean and neat?

Are there unpleasant odors?

Are the grounds well kept?

Is the facility in a good location and easy for you to get to?

Professional affiliations: i i i

Are the doctors members of professional associations?

Is the hospital an American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) associated hospital?

Do the veterinarians regularly attend conferences and other continuing education programs?

As part of your search, pay a visit to the facilities you are interested in and have a tour. Make appointments to meet the veterinarians. If your dog has ongoing medical or behavioral problems, find out if the veterinarian is comfortable in treating those problems.

Hopefully, your dog will have a healthy life and never need a specialist, but if a specialist is needed, they are available. Some veterinarians will have a special interest in certain areas of medicine or surgery and specialize in it.

If they are board-certified, it means that they have studied and have passed board-certification exams in that specialty.

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i

Internal medicine: Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders that involve the internal organs such as the liver, kidneys, and pancreas.

i

Surgery - orthopedic and soft tissue: Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders that need surgery to repair such as back surgery, complicated fractures, or abdominal surgery.

i

Dermatology: Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders including allergies.

i

Behavior: Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of behavioral problems such as aggression, separation anxiety, or house soiling.

i

Oncology: Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers.

i

Radiology: Specializing in reading x-rays, CAT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds.

i

Cardiology: Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of heart diseases.

i

Ophthalmology: Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders.

If a referral to a specialist is recommended by your veterinarian or you would like a second opinion from a specialist, ask your veterinarian to tell you who in your region is board-certified in the necessary specialty. A listing of the various veterinary boards are included in our Directory Section under Specialty Boards.

CONCLUSION The relationship between you, your dog, and your veterinarian will hopefully last many years, so take time to find the right 'fit.' Since you will need to be able to discuss your pet's symptoms, test results, and treatment options with your veterinarian, good communication is of utmost importance. Find a clinic with veterinarians who you feel comfortable with and have good 'bedside manners.' Once you have found that veterinarian, we strongly recommend regular veterinary visits, or at the very least, annual physical exams.

It can be an overwhelming task k trying to find a veterinary practice that is right for you and your pet. At American Canyon Veterinary Hospital we understand the importance off establishing a relationship with a veterinary professional you can rely on. We are committed to providing our patients with quality care, and the latest advances in modern veterinary medicine.

Dr Swarnjit Singh - DVM, PhD

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UC Davis’ Pioneering Nasolacrimal Endoscopy & Stenting Procedure Successful in First Cat

By Rob Warren

K

inako, an 8-year-old female domestic shorthair cat, was continually troubled with build-up of tears in her left eye, sometimes resulting in infections.

Her owner took her to see their veterinarian, who attempted to flush the tear duct of that eye several times, but to no avail. While the situation was not life threatening, Kinako’s owner did not want her to suffer needlessly for the rest of her life. Kinako’s veterinarian suggested taking her to see the specialists in the Ophthalmology Service at the UC Davis veterinary hospital.

Drs. David Maggs and Ann Strom suggested that if a CT scan revealed an obstruction in Kinako’s tear duct, then she undergo a new procedure pioneered at UC Davis to permanently reopen the duct. This new, minimally invasive approach to nasolacrimal obstructions had already shown great promise in one horse and a number of dogs, but had not yet been performed in a cat. The lacrimal system is responsible for the generation and drainage of tears. The drainage portion of the system consists of several important structures collectively known as the nasolacrimal apparatus (NLA). This frequently becomes blocked and sometimes infected, leading to discomfort, tear staining and discharge from the eye, resulting in skin inflammation. However, the NLA is made up of such small ducts that access to the obstruction can be extremely difficult.

Thanks to advances in equipment and technique, a multidisciplinary team of clinicians from UC Davis’ Ophthalmology, Internal Medicine, Soft Tissue Surgery, Anesthesia, and Diagnostic Imaging Services are now having unprecedented success treating NLA blockages.

With cameras now small enough to fit into the tiny drainage ducts, clinicians utilize endoscopy (as well as CT and fluoroscopy) to identify and bypass or remove NLA obstructions. Whether the obstructions are caused by a scarred duct or a foreign body, temporary stents can usually be

Thanks to advances in equipment and technique, a multidisciplinary team of clinicians from UC Davis are now having unprecedented success treating NLA blockages.

About the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital The William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at the University of California, Davis—a unit of the #1 world ranked School of Veterinary Medicine—provides state-of-the-art clinical care while serving as the primary clinical teaching experience for DVM students and post graduate veterinarian residents. The VMTH treats more than 51,000 animals a year, ranging from cats and dogs to horses, cows and exotic species. To learn more about the VMTH, please go to www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/vmth. Timely news updates can be received on its Facebook (www.facebook.com/ucdavisvetmed) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/ucdavisvetmed) pages.

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placed so as to reopen the duct from eye to nose.

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As they had done before for the equine and canine patients, the UC Davis team came together to successfully unobstruct and temporarily stent Kinako’s left nasolacrimal passage. Following the surgery, the stent was left in place for two months to allow adequate time for the duct to heal in an open position. Although Kinako initially had some persistent ocular discharge caused by an infection in the tissue around the eye, this cleared with antibiotics, and Kinako’s left eye no longer shows signs of build-up or excessive tearing, and her nasolacrimal duct remains clear.

About three months following surgery, Kinako’s owner reported that her left eye demonstrated what he defined as a complete resolution of signs.

To date, UC Davis has treated 15 dogs, two cats, and one horse with this pioneering procedure that now offers a minimally invasive alternative for referring veterinarians who have been faced with treating NLA obstructions using conventional, more invasive and typically less successful methods.

Importantly, many of the cases referred were considered particularly challenging since they were referred to UC Davis by local ophthalmologists who were unable to treat them using conventional methods. Because of this initial success, general practitioners and ophthalmology specialists are recognizing UC Davis’ unique approach to effectively treat this condition, and a clinical trial is underway at the veterinary hospital to evaluate the procedure so that this can become the standard-of-care for this otherwise frustrating disease complex.

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WAYS TO KEEP YOUR PET

SAFE DURING SUMMER

Higher temperatures may translate into more time spent outdoors, but for pet owners, they can also mean more visits to the veterinarian.

“In the summer, we see more skin and ear infections and an increase in injuries overall,” says Sandra Sawchuk, DVM.

HERE’S HOW TO PROTECT YOUR PET DURING THE WARMER MONTHS: USE SUNSCREEN, PLEASE! f

f

f

Shield delicate skin. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in dogs and second most common in cats. Even though fur provides some protection from the sun, you should apply a pet sun block every 3 to 4 hours to the least hair-covered spots: bellies on dogs (especially ones who like to lie on their backs) and ears and around eyes on cats, which are also areas where malignant tumors are likely to show up. (No need to apply sunscreen directly on fur.) Use products made specifically for pets, such as Epi-Pet Sun Protector Sunscreen ($18; epi-pet.com), which is safe for dogs— ingredients such as zinc oxide can be toxic to pets.

Keep coats long. While it may seem logical to cut your pet’s coat short, resist the urge. “If hair—even long hair—is brushed and not matted, it provides better circulation and helps her regulate her body temperature,” says Rene Carlson, DVM, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Soothe burns safely. If your pet does get burned, apply a thin layer of pure aloe vera twice daily to soothe the irritated area.

(Check the brand with your vet first, for pet safety.)

PLAY IT COOL f

Walk with caution. Don’t walk your dog during the day’s highest heat and humidity, which is usually between 1 and 4 PM. This is especially important for dogs with short snouts, such as bulldogs, who can’t pant as efficiently in humid weather due to their narrowed nostrils and windpipes.

f

Never leave her in the car. Even if windows are cracked, the interior temp can rise by 19°F in as little as 7 minutes. On a hot day, this can be deadly.

f

Look out for heat exhaustion. If your dog shows signs of heat stress—heavy panting, dry or bright red gums, thick drool, vomiting, diarrhea, or wobbly legs—don’t place her in ice cold water, which can put her into shock. Instead, move her to a cool place, drape a damp towel over her body, rewetting the cloth frequently, and get her to the vet as soon as you possibly can. A dog’s normal temperature is between 100° and 103°F, so once she hits 104°F, she’s in dangerous territory (106°F or higher can be fatal).

f

Keep it cool indoors. Turn on the AC in your home, especially if you’ll be out of the house for several hours. If it’s too warm for you, it’s too warm for your pet.

BE WATER-WISE f

Use a lifejacket. Have your dog wear a life vest in a bright color in any body of water to help her stayy afloat and ensure that she can be seen by swimmers and boaters. Let her get used to wearing it in your yard first.

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f

f

Beware of currents and riptides. If a dog gets in trouble in one of these in the ocean, whether swimming or caught in a wave while fetching a ball, she can be swept out to sea in minutes. The same goes for rivers: You need to watch out for currents, even if they’re not readily visible, as your dog can be easily carried downstream.

f

Avoid swimmer’s ear. Use drops of a canine ear-drying solution to fight potential swimmer’s ear.

KEEP PETS BUG-FREE f

Send parasites packing. Hookworms and heartworms are more prevalent during the summer and can gain access to your pet through the pads of his feet. Ask your vet for a prescription for Heartgard Plus or Interceptor Flavor Tabs, which will help keep parasites at bay.

f

Opt for pet-friendly insect repellents.

One option: All-natural Heavenly Organic Ecoshield ($10; animalsensepetproducts. com). Its botanical blend of plant and essential oils repels fleas, ticks, flies, and mosquitoes.

Check with your veterinarian first to find safe repellents for your pet.

Be on the lookout in lakes. If your dog steps in a sinkhole, which may cause her to panic, you need to help her swim to where she can touch ground again. Avoid lakes and ponds with blue-green algae, signified by scummy water and a foul odor. Algae can produce a toxin that may cause severe sickness or seizures quickly if your pet ingests the water, by either drinking from the lake or licking tainted fur.

PLAN A SAFER COOKOUT

TAKE POOL PRECAUTIONS f

Act like a lifeguard. Never leave your dog unsupervised near an uncovered pool.

f

Create an exit strategy. Teach her how to get out of the pool by using the stairs with her 5 to 10 times in a row. This will help her learn where the stairs are, whether she’s swimming or accidentally falls in and needs to climb out. In the deep end, consider putting in a pool ramp, such as the Gamma Skamper Ramp ($60 to $80; petco.com), to reduce any risk of drowning.

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f

Avoid using charcoal briquettes. Dogs seem to love to lap up or steal from the grill, and charcoal briquettes can easily get stuck in the stomach, causing vomiting and requiring surgery.

f

Don’t share. Barbecue scraps and fatty leftovers can give your pup pancreatitis, causing severe abdominal pain or death. Corn on the cob and peach pits are also a huge no-no because they can lodge in a dog’s intestines.

GUARD YOUR GARDEN f

Skip the azaleas. These common backyard shrubs can be toxic for dogs and cats if ingested, resulting in drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, heart arrhythmias, or an abnormal heart rate.

f

Limit the lilies. A daylily or Asiatic, Easter, or Stargazer lily and their pollen can cause acute kidney failure in cats. Ingestion of as little as two to three leaves can be fatal, so remove these plants from your yard if you let your cat out.

CHECK YOUR GARAGE f

Lock up plant food. Rose and garden plant food containing insecticides can contain potentially fatal compounds. If your dog tries to eat a bag of it (or soil that’s been treated with it), he could suffer diarrhea, profuse vomiting, shock, seizures, and even death.

f

Keep away the fireworks. A threat to curious dogs that might try to eat them, fireworks are made with chemicals like potassium nitrate, and parts (like a fuse) that could get stuck in the stomach, they can cause vomiting, bloody diarrhea, seizures, and shallow breathing. Keep yours out of reach, and clear your yard of debris after you set off your display.

Do Your Understand Your Pet Bunny Rabbit’s Personality?

By Andrea Austin

W

hen you mention the word “rabbit” many people think of Bugs Bunny. In reality, rabbits are very different from their cartoon counterparts. Rabbits may be cute, fuzzy, and adorable, but that does not mean they enjoy cuddling up to humans or being picked up and carried around.

In fact, improper handling of your new pet can result in harm, so before you pick out your new pet rabbit, make sure you understand all the basics of rabbit animal behavior and care.

How to Handle Rabbits-Should you Pick Up Your Rabbit?

As creatures who walk on all four feet and whose bodies are low to the ground, rabbits tend to feel the most comfortable and safe while sitting or laying on the floor.

Therefore, when picked up, rabbits may become nervous, panicked, or even downright terrified. When this

happens, they may begin kicking out their hind-legs.

Why is this such a danger? Well, when your pet rabbit thrashes around he risks fracturing his back (remembers, rabbits bones, including spinal cords, are very fragile). If you pick up a rabbit and he starts to get nervous, put him down immediately and carefully, and do not try to physically restrain him.

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Above all, never pick up a bunny rabbit by its ears. If you do pick up your rabbit, it should be done by carefully lifting from the scruff of the neck, then supporting the rest of the body with your other hand.

`As rabbits tend to be high-strung creatures, settling in with and getting to know a familiar and loving group of humans can really set their minds at ease and make them healthier and happier.a How to Pet a Rabbit Since rabbits do not like to be picked up as much as other pet animals, you may not be able to pick up your bunny and pet him in your lap as you may want to. Respect your pet bunnies wish to stay closer to the ground. Instead of lifting him up, let him sit beside you, then pet him gently.

If your rabbit seems nervous, use one hand to gently cover his eyes, then stroke his back soothingly and calmly. This will help ease him back to a peaceful state.

Also, it is important to supervise your children while they are learning to pet their rabbits. Make sure they do not use too much pressure or try to pick up the animals, for the reasons described above. Set a good example by showing

them how to treat the rabbit, then ask them to follow your lead.

How Rabbits Interact with Humans Just because rabbits do not like to be held don’t be fooled! They really are loving and sociable creatures, and they need (and want) your attention. In fact, one of the best reasons to keep your pet bunny housed inside your home is that he will feel like he is becoming a part of the family. Being around humans gives rabbits the idea that they are part of a group; they dislike being lonely and enjoy companionship.

As rabbits tend to be high-strung creatures, settling in with and getting to know a familiar and loving group of humans can really set their minds at ease and make them healthier and happier.

If you follow this advice, you will probably find that you will develop a close and satisfying relationship with your pet bunny. He will grow to trust you and show you various sides of his personality. He may very likely exhibit a sense of humor and compassionate feelings toward you ... which as all animal lover’s know is a wonderful reward!

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By Sarah Crosier

The Maine Coon cat has been called the king of the domestic cat world. The breed is visually stunning with its beautiful long ruff, bushy raccoon like tail and large tufty paws. The Maine Coon is the largest domesticated cat and visitors to our house are shocked to discover our 2-year old male kitten has another 2-3 years to grow before he is classed as an adult. As well as the Maine Coon’s striking physical appearance, the breed has an inquisitive, friendly and lively personality.

I’ve had many people ask the question, I think my cat is at least part Maine Coon how can I tell?

This is how the Maine Coon Breeders and Fanciers Association (MCBFA) answer the question on their website: The Maine Coon is Americas native longhair cat; it evolved naturally in response to the New England climate. Your cats ancestors might be similar to the cats that founded the Maine Coon breed. However, it’s impossible to tell from just looking at your cat if it is related to the Maine Coon or any other breed.

Because the Maine Coon is a natural breed and hasn’t

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been bred to the extremes, there are cats all over the world that resemble the Maine Coon. The only way to tell for sure if your cat is a Maine Coon is to look at the pedigree.

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COAT: Heavy and shaggy, medium to longhaired and uneven in length. The fur is shorter on the shoulders and longer on the stomach.

A frontal ruff is desirable although there is a marked variation in the length of ruff, depending on the particular line.

Ok, that may not help much because most people do know when they have a pedigree Maine Coon because they have papers verifying the pedigree.

So, if you don’t have papers how can you tell if you have at least a part Maine Coon?

Firstly, these cats are not normal! They have distinctive personality traits and unique Maine Coon features. If your cat has some or all of the following, you can be sure you have a cat with dominant Maine Coon breeding:

UNIQUE PERSONALITY TRAITS Here are 3 classic Maine Coon characteristics: i

DOG LIKE BEHAVIOR: Common behavior is they will follow you around, they will sit at your feet, will come to greet you (whenever you’ve been out), they will fetch and retrieve if trained, they will also carry favorite objects such as a toy stick in the mouth and drop it at your feet. Like a dog, it is usual for the Maine Coon to stretch up on its back legs resting its front paws above the waist to demand a stroke from the owners.

i

PROTECTIVE OF HIS HOME: Can be rather suspicious and extremely curious, a little bit like a police sniffer dog checking bags for illegal substances. Although, this is an obvious exaggeration, we have found that non-cat loving visitors are not completely at ease with persistent investigations into their personal belongings.

i

SUPERVISOR ROLE: This is what we call the constant shadowing behavior of the Maine Coon, when something is happening in the house, such as computer work, housework, assembling furniture, or just about anything where people are moving about. The only way to discourage him/her from joining in is to finish the task when he goes off for a sleep!

PHYSICAL FEATURES:

1

HEAD: Round in shape when viewed from the front, medium in width and longish in length. The muzzle is square and can look broad in more mature male cats.

2

EARS: Set high and well apart. They are large, and well tufted tapering to a point, in common with the Bobcat and the Lynx. The tufts on the ears are one of the classic signs of a Maine Coon.

3 4

EYES: Large and wide set. Slightly oblique slanting to outer base of ear.

BODY: Full maturation can take 4 to 5 years and allowances should be made when judging size of the cat. Overall, the body is muscular and broad chested. The body is well proportioned throughout, and there are no unusual oddities in relation to size proportion.

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LEGS AND FEET: The legs are sturdy and substantial, and proportionate to the body. The paws are very large and well tufted.

Tufts in between the toes are an essential feature for a Maine Coon.

There are five toes on the front paws and four on the back.

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TAIL: This is the probably the most unmistakable feature of the Maine Coon. The tail is long and should run the length of the body when at least as long as the neck. Originally, when Maine Coons lived as farm cats, the tail would cover the whole body and act as a kind of furry sleeping bag in the winter. The fur is also thick and long. It has been said that the name coon comes from raccoon because of the similarities of the tails of the two animals.

In summary, if your cat looks like a Maine Coon and acts like a Maine Coon, you definitely have a part or even full Maine Coon.

Copyright 2006 Sarah Crosier

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FIRST YOU MUST CHANGE – Then Your Dog Will Too!

By Susan Raymond

H Like furry sponges, dogs absorb our own beliefs, attitudes and behaviors.

orse trainer Buck Brannaman, a leading proponent of Natural Horsemanship, has been quoted as saying “Your horse is a mirror to your soul.” Certainly this can be said about our dogs too ! Like furry sponges, dogs absorb our own beliefs, attitudes and behaviors. If we tend to lack confidence, if we consistently impose limitations on what we think we are capable of, if we are often overly emotional or nervous or fearful – in other words, if we are essentially unbalanced, our dogs will often embody those traits as well.

In order to help our dogs attain a calm, balanced state of mind, we must take a good look at ourselves and identify the things that are stumbling blocks for our own selves and, consequently, for our dogs as well!

dog so you can respond in a timely and appropriate fashion to his or her cues and responses to your guidance. The best training happens when we are fully present with our dogs, and that is a wonderful thing to strive for. After all, we want them to be fully attentive and engaged with us, and as such, we owe it to our dogs to be 100% there for them as well!

When done in this manner, dog training is an allencompassing, highly rewarding activity for you and your pup!

Do you want to micromanage your dog? The more you put into it, the more you derive. As a trainer I am always seeking to enhance my skills – I listen to my mentors and I listen to the dog.

What we are asking from our dogs is good medicine – for us !!!

Before a training session with your dog, take as much time as you need to clear your mind and focus on your training goals. Align yourself internally to the task at hand and strive to keep things simple and clear. Allow yourself to pay full attention to your

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THE PET LOVERS GUIDE | SUMMER 2016

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RESOURCE DIRECTORY SOLANO COUNTY Community Animals & Adolescents Together Vallejo, Ca http://caatrescue.webs.com/ kriskitty@comcast.net CAT & DOG RESCUE Cat Tales Rescue Solano County catinfo@catalesrescue.org http://catalesrescue.org/ Cat Rescue Humane Society of the North Bay 1121 Somoma Blvd Vallejo, Ca 707-645-7905 http://hsnb.rescuegroups.org/ Vallejo Animal Control 707-645-7906 Benicia Animal Control 707-745-3412 SCARF 680 Vintage Court Fairfield, CA USA 94534 http://www.scanimalfoundation.org tm2004@comcast.net CAT & DOG RESCUE

International Bird Rescue 4369 Cordelia Road , Fairfield 707-207-0380 http://www.bird-rescue.org Solano County Animal Care Shelter 2510 Clay Bank Road Fairfield, CA 94533 (707) 784-1356 Phone http://www.solanocounty.com The Animal Place Sanctuary and Education 3448 Laguna Creek Trail, Vacaville 707-449-4814 http://animalplace.org SPCA of Solano County 2200 Peabody Rd Vacaville, CA 95687 707-448-7722 http://www.solanospca.com Paws for Healing A Canine Therapy Program Serving Northern Calif 707-258-3486 www.pawsforhealing.org Spirit Horse Therapeautic Riding Center of SF Bay Area 707-720-6360 http://www.spirithorsebayarea.org

Solano Feral Cat Group PO Box 1221, Suisun, Ca 707-421-5515 www.solanoferals.org

Humane Animal Services Serving Vacaville, Fairfield, Suisun City, Dixon, and Rio Vista 707-449-1700 http://www.humaneanimalservices.org

4 Paws Pet Rescue Vacaville, CA 95688 www.4pawspets.petfinder.com fourpawspets08@yahoo.com CAT & DOG RESCUE

Suisun Wildlife Rescue Injured or orphaned wild animal, please call 707-429-HAWK (4295) http://www.suisunwildlife.org

Premier Animal Rescue P. O. Box 6763 Vacaville, CA 95696 707-592-4601 Cat Rescue Dog Works Doberman Rescue 149 Briarwood Drive , Vacaville 707-448-3850 http://www.dogworks.org Joleene: jladyman@castles.com Leanne: lozadobe@juno.com The Dog Spot Rescue Rehabilitation & Rehoming Center P.O. Box 5126 Vacaville, Ca 95688 thedogspotrescue@aol.com Northern California Italian Greyhound Rescue Fairfield, Ca 707-446-1858 (Barb) http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/norcal.html

NAPA COUNTY Whiskers, Tails, and Ferals 1370 Trancas Street, #206, Napa 707-942-9066 http://www.whiskerstailsandferals.org CAT & DOG RESCUE Napa Humane Society P.O. Box 695, Napa 707-255-8118 http://www.napahumane.org Napa County Animal Shelter 942 Hartle Ct, Napa, Ca 94558 707-253-4382 http://www.countyofnapa.org/AnimalShelter/ We Care Animal Rescue 1345 Charter Oak Ave., St. Helena 707-963-7044 http://wecareanimalrescue.org CAT & DOG RESCUE

LAPS P.O. Box 6596 Napa, CA 94581 707-265-6642 http://www.lovinganimalsprovidingsmiles.org A Canine Therapy Program Serving Northern Calif

SONOMA & LAKE COUNTY Golden Gate Basset Rescue POBox 4958, Petaluma 707-765-2690 http://www.ggbassetrescue.org North Bay Canine Rescue and Placement PO Box 4522, Petaluma 707-763-7736 http://northbaycanine.org Petaluma Animal Services Foundation 840 Hopper St, Petaluma, Ca 94952 707-778-PETS (7387) www.petalumaanimalshelter.org California Animal Rescue Santa Rosa, Ca 707-293-4470 http://www.californiaanimalrescue.org CAT & DOG RESCUE Countryside Rescue 3410 Guerneville Rd., Santa Rosa 707-494-0491 http://www.countrysiderescue.com/ CAT & DOG RESCUE Forgotten Felines of Sonoma County 1814 Empire Industrial Ct Santa Rosa, CA 95403 PO Box 6672, Santa Rosa, Ca 95403 707-576-7999 http://www.forgottenfelines.com Paws for Love Foundation P.O Box 9004, Santa Rosa, Ca 95405 209-795-4575 Ellyn@pawsforlove.info http://www.pawsforlove.info The Paws for Love Foundation is a resource for shelters and rescue organizations.

Wine Country Greyhound Adoption PO Box 6266, Santa Rosa 800-924-7397 http://www.winecountrygreyhounds.com Special Pets Rescue P.O. Box 1247, Lower Lake 707-350-7008 http://www.specialpetsrescue.org Sonoma Humane Society 5345 Hwy 12, Santa Rosa, Ca 95407 707-542-0882 http://sonomahumane.org

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Sonoma County Animal Care and Control 1247 Century Ct Santa Rosa, CA 707-565-7100 http://sonoma-county.org/shelter/index.htm California Animal Rescue PO BOX 2179 Healdsburg, CA 95448 707-293-4470 rescuedcritters@gmail.com http://car.rescuegroups.org/ http://www.californiaanimalrescue.com/ Pet's Lifeline 19686 8th Street East. , Sonoma 707-996-4577 http://www.petslifeline.org CAT & DOG RESCUE A Leg Up Rescue 925 Lakeville Street #265 Petaluma, CA 94952 www.aleguprescue.org aleguprescue@me.com Dog Rescue Big Dog Rescue Penngrove, Ca 707-665-0332 http://www.homelesshounds.us Dog Rescue Chihuahua Club of Northern California, Rescue Renee' Harris, 707-887-0190 P.O. Box 1696 Forestville, CA. 95436 Email: ScooberNoggin@aol.com Golden Gate Gordon Setter Club Rescue P.O. Box 1578 , Middletown 707-987-9463

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

Bay Area Poodle Rescue 1442 A Walnut St #204 Berkeley, CA 94709 www.bayareapoodlerescue.org 510-286-7630 bichons4evr@comcast.net

Small Dog Rescue Roseville, Ca Serving Placer County, Rocklin, Lincoln, Roseville and Sacramento http://www.smalldogrescue.org NorCal Cocker Rescue, Inc. 1731 Howe Ave., #264 Sacramento, CA 95825 (916) 541-5149 NorCalCockerRescue@gmail.com http://www.norcalcockerrescue.org Russell Rescue Inc, Ca Kerry McAllister, 916-600-7352 norcal@russellrescueca.com http://www.russellrescueca.com Nor Cal Aussie Rescue 10556 Combie Road #6200, Auburn 530-268-1600 http://www.norcalaussierescue.com Rotts of Friends Animal Rescue 34505 County Road 29 Woodland, CA 95695 Phone: (530) 661-0213 RottsOfFriends@gmail.com

ARF- Tony La Russa's Animal Rescue Foundation 2890 Mitchell Dr, Walnut Creek, CA 94598 (925) 256-1273 www.arf.net Cat/Dog Rescue and Adoptions Outcast Cat Help PO Box 963, Martinez, CA 925-231-0639 www.outcastcat.org Cat Rescue

The Yolo County SPCA P.O. Box 510 Davis, CA 95617 (530) 902-6264. M-F 8a-6p http://www.yolospca.org/

Milo Foundation 220 South Garrard Blvd., Point Richmond 415-454-6456 marin@milofoundation.org mpr@milofoundation.org www.milofoundation.org

OTHER Small Animal Rescue & Adoptions Rats, Hamsters, Guinea Pigs, Mice, Chinchillas www.northstarrescue.org Save A Bunny Mill Valley, Ca 415-388-2790 www.saveabunny.org Dalmatian Club of America Rescue Sherry GuIdager 916-771-0282; MariIyn DromgooIe 510-708-2642 Dalmatian Club of Northern California Rescue 510-886-9258; Janet Langford Gray 408-2574301; Barb & Mike Dwyer 925-672-3980

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Northern California American Malamute Association 800-399-8155 http://ncama.org

YOLO & SACRAMENTO Northern California Boxer Rescue Davis, Ca 866-989-NCBR (6227) http://www.ncbr.org

Yolo County Animal Services 2640 E. Gibson Rd, Woodland, CA 95776 (530) 668-5287 http://www.yolocountysheriff.com/services/animal-services/ https://www.facebook.com/YCAS.Shelter

Umbrella of Hope 4080 Railroad Ave, Suite C.,Pittsburg, CA 94565 (925) 567-3997 beourpet@gmail.com www.beourpet.org CAT & DOG RESCUE

Dachsund Rescue Northern California Chico, Ca - Monti Markel, 530 895 3148 San Leandro, Ca - Vicki Ronchette, 510-483-2631

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NorCal Irish Setter Rescue 208-683-2765 (Paul) or 510-524-2602 (Debra) http://ncisrescue.org/index.html NorCal Golden Retriever Rescue 405 El Camino Real Suite 420, Menlo Park 650-615-6810 http://www.golden-rescue.org NorCal German Shorthair Pointer Rescue P.O. Box 933, Menlo Park 408-402-2092 http://www.norcalgsprescue.com Nor Cal Beagle Rescue Bay Area: 510-770-0208, Sacramento Area: 916691-1817 http://www.norcalbeagles.com NorCal Collie Rescue 650-851-9227 http://www.calcollierescue.org Great Dane Rescue of Northern California 15255 Clydelle Ave, San Jose 916-652-6444 (Colleen) http://www.gdrnc.org Great Pyrenees Rescue of Northern California P O Box 574, Georgetown 1-877-PYRENEES http://www.gprnc.org/index.php German Shephard Rescue of Northern Calif P.O. Box 1930, Cupertino 1-800-728-3473 http://www.savegsd.org/ Golden State German Shepard Rescue PO Box 2956, Alameda , CA 94501 877-447-4717 goldenstategsr@earthlink.net www.gsgsrescue.org Border Collie Rescue of Northern California 831-422-8176 (Ann) http://www.bcrescuenc.org West Coast Mastiff & Large Breed Rescue 39252 Winchester Rd #107-253 Murrieta, CA 92563 http://www.wcmastiffrescue.com/ wcm.rescue@yahoo.com Afghan Hound Rescue - Northern California P.O. Box 3508, Redwood City 650-678-9984

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