Texas Dogs & Cats Magazine

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Houston

August 2012

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cover photo: sonya sellers

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6 Hip Dysplasia Outcome 8 AforSweet Candy

12 Puppy 101 What to Chew?

14 Sold On Old 16 CenterStage

Older Pets Make Great Companions

Say Hello to Rock & Jazzy

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publisheR

Shannan Parker Tel: 281.781.4727 info@texascatsanddogs.com

editor

Tiffany Robinson tiffanyrobinson99@gmail.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jeff Parker Tel: 281.781.4727

DESIGNER

Fran Sherman 314.275.2208 fran@shermanstudios.com

Contributing Writers Charlotte Weir Dr. Amy Kelly Tricia Fagan Nadine Joli-coeur Monica Schmidt Dougie Deogie William Given

24 28 photographer Sonya Sellers

18 The Dog Owner’s First Aid Kit 20 Taking Care of Your Senior Pet 22 Meet The Vet 24 Dougie Deogi, Rescue Reporter 26 Spotted by the Pupperazzi 28 Marketplace Getting to know Dr. Christopher Teff

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281.781.4727 • Houston@TexasDogsAndCats.com Next Issue: September 2012 Advertiser’s Deadline: August 15th 2012

{August 2012}

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{pethealth}

By Charlotte Weir , sunset boulevard animal clinic

hip dysplasia

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n basic terminology hip dysplasia means “poorly� formed hip. The hip joint is a ball and socket type of joint. In normal hips the ball portion fits smoothly and completely into the socket similar to pieces of a puzzle. Dysplastic hip joints do not fit as well. The ball and socket can be very malformed resulting in two pieces that don’t really fit together at all. This leads to the ball rubbing or pounding into the socket in an unorganized and rough manner resulting in microscopic fractures and arthritis in the joint. Over time, this becomes increasingly painful even with day-to-day activities of the pet.

The disease is genetic in nature affecting many large breeds of dogs (although possible in small and mid-sized dogs). The most common breeds affected include Labs, Golden Retrievers, German Shepards, St.Bernards, Mas-

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tiffs and Rottweilers. Because this disease is passed from dogs to their puppies, it is important to breed only those animals with normal hips to decrease the likelihood of hip dysplasia being passed on. It is also best to have those ani-

mals with dysplasia spayed or neutered. Reputable breeders have their breeding dogs hips certified by radiographs and breed only those animals with normal hips.

This disease occurs in young dogs, but is common for a dog

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to reach middle age before outward signs can be seen.

This is because normal activity causes the hips to worsen with time until the pet can no longer get around normally. Pet owners may notice a change in the pets gait (normal walking motions), the pet having trouble getting up from a

lying position, or becoming slower in getting around. In later stages the owner may also notice that the muscle mass, in the hind extremities diminishes, making the problem worse. Obesity causes the disease to show its effects sooner and more prominently.

Treatment for hip dyplasia depends on the severity of the disease, age, and overall health of the animal. Antiinflammatory medications are used often to decrease the inflammation in the joints and decrease the pain involved with the disease. There are also surgical options, including total hip replacement for more extreme cases. Swimming is often a good exercise option for dogs suffering from

dysplasia because there is no weight placed on the joint and the water offers good resistance. Low fat diets are also often used to make sure the pet is not overweight. There is also dietary supplements available that improve joint health slowing the process and offering some pain relief.

Hip dysplasia is a very common and uncomfortable problem in dogs. Luckily there are ways we can help our four legged friends if the problem is identified in time.

If your pet is showing signs or is a large breed dog, ask your veterinarian about checking the hips for problems. Remember, our pets count on us to keep them happy, healthy and pain free.

candy a sweet outcome for

By lisa cari

photos by sonya sellers

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W

hen Candy & Company were rescued from their abandonment and left starving without shelter or an owner to watch over them in March 2012, they had no idea how good life was about to be! Their story was in the May 2012 issue.

Pup Squad and Adopt a Pet Houston worked together to find forever homes for the pups and their mom, Candy. Their lives were documented by photographer Sonya Sellers as she co-fostered this funny, furry family with Lisa Cari. After her last pup was adopted, Candy had no one left to play with but enjoyed the sofa for afternoon naps and belly scratches from her foster families between adoption events. Everyone loved her small size and playful, affectionate nature, all foster homes were already filled.

Then it happened, a family called to meet her after viewing her pictures online. They were unsure about

{August 2012}

adding another family member because they just lost their furry family member of 12 years and their heart was understandably broken. Candy went to her meet and greet and without even knowing who she had to win over, she dazzled them all! She made herself at home by climbing into their laps and falling asleep while we shared her rescue story. She was so happy and relaxed around this family of 4, as if she had chosen them to be her forever family. Janet was especially happy to have a daily walking buddy and a doggy that wouldn’t take up too much room in the bed. Candy breathed new life into their home with her funny antics and their children decided to give her name that matched that, Zoey meaning life in Greek.

Her nickname is ZoeZoe, and that really gets her tail going!

Since then, Zoey has had a few swimming lessons in their pool, taken walks to see the ducks and many, many naps with the kids on the sofa as they all are enjoying the summer. The warm fuzzy moment comes when we learned that we posted Candy’s pictures up for adoption on Janet’s birthday. How is that for kismet?! It is happy endings like this that make fostering and adoption so rewarding.

Candy/Zoey and her pups have brought so much happiness to their new families. Please consider adoption and saving a life!

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onder Pet Expo Houston comes to the Legends Sports Complex in the Woodlands Sept.1. The interactive, fun-for-the entire family event is free, and pet lovers will find a shopping extravaganza for their furried, finned and feathered friends.

Vendors include Miniature Schnauzer Rescue of Houston, Pet Floors of Houston, Barker Street Gourmet Bakery & Boutique, Doors 4 Pets and People, Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, Houston Area Doberman Rescue and Green Mountain Energy, to name a few. Watch Paw it Forward Training LLC. in action, while learning to train your pets. Or, you may just find your next four-legged family member in the Wonder Paws Rescue Arena.

This is the first time the event will be in Houston. Wonder Pet Expo was held in Phoenix last year and intends to hold shows annually in Texas and Arizona. The event is indoors, air-conditioned, and parking is free.

In light of the recent Spindletop Refuge raid that happened just north of the Woodlands, Wonder Pet Expo will be accepting donations to aid the rescues that are pulling together to help rehabilitate and save the dogs seized. Attendees are encouraged to bring leashes, collars, beds, towels, food bowls, dog food, ect. Anything will help; all items will be donated and distributed evenly to rescues participating in Wonder Pet Expo.

Sponsors include, Wonder Wetter, Global Pet Industry, Pet Vaccination Services, DogPoopBags.com, Texas 10

Dogs & Cats, DogTipper.com, CatTipper.com, Urban Paws Magazine, Paw It Forward Training LLC. and Modern Dog Magazine.

Attendees are allowed to bring their pets on a fixed lead with proof of age-appropriate vaccinations, but discounted vaccinations and microchipping will be available to your on site. Pet experts will also share tips on obedience training, CPR, and bite prevention. Award-winning Petblogger Preston Speaks will speak about the growing online pet communities. Renowned publisher and speaker DogTipper.Com will sign her new book, “Barkonomics: Tips for Frugal Fidos,” and debut her highly anticipated children’s coloring book.

Children will have a blast with the Bonzi and Pinky “Race to Educate” Show in the Wonder Paws RaceWay. Bonzi races to create

awareness against animal abuse, and Pinky races to create awareness against puppy mills. Kids will race with the dogs in cars.

Bonzi and Pinky won’t be the only ones racing at the show: Dachshund Rescue of Houston will be hosting Derby Doxie Races. Sign up on the website www.wonderpetexpohouston.com. Dachshunds may be registered at the pet expo as well. The proceeds will benefit the Dachshund Rescue of Houston.

If you’re looking to pamper your pet, take advantage of free Spa Pawdicures, Ear Cleaning, and other grooming specials. After a little TLC, make sure to enter him or her into the “Most Pawsome Pet” Pageant. And don’t forget to sign up for an end-of the year luxury car giveaway, a $250 PetSmart card, pet gates and other incredible prizes.

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dog daycare & bakery • Cage-Free Boarding • Open 7 Days Per Week

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poster for cat show

chew?

by Tricia Fagan

{puppy101}

what to

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ogs chew. Puppies chew. People don’t like their furniture chewed. It’s a problem! The first question I ask the owners of problem chewers, “What do you WANT him to chew?” Dog owners often have lots of fluffy toys, but fluffy toys are inappropriate for real chewing. Think about it. Dogs chew on furniture, on wood, on HARD things. If you are to provide an alternative, you must provide something equally hard.

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When you are looking for chew toys, please keep in mind that there is a definite line between puppy chew toys and adult dog chew toys. While both types of chew toy will feel very, very hard to you, you should select the type of toy that is appropriate for YOUR dog.

If you are not sure about whether your dog is a “puppy” or not, then consider whether your dog has all of its “puppy teeth”.

For chewing purposes, a “puppy” is defined as a dog who has not lost all of its puppy teeth. Dogs begin to lose their puppy at about four months, and have lost them all by six months. So if you started with “puppy chew toys”, switch him to adult dog chew toys when your puppy begins to do serious damage to his puppy chew toys. Be sure to read chew toy packaging carefully to choose the correct toy for your pooch.

You may also be interested in edible chews.

Edible chews come in two varieties: man-made and nature-made. Regrettably, man-made chews are generally a poor choice: they are costly, high in calories, and (often) eaten too quickly. On the other hand, natural chews take longer for the dog to eat, and are not usually high calorie items. One exception would be pig ears. Pig ears are very high in fat -- just touch one! They are often quite greasy. Cow, lamb and rabbit ears, however, are lower in fat and calories. Another nature-made choice is the “bully stick”. Bully sticks can also be excellent chews. {August 2012}

Use caution when purchasing bully sticks. “Fake” bully sticks are sold right next to real bully sticks.

Fake bully sticks contain ingredients other than meat, and are eaten quickly.

Also, rawhides can be good chew items, in moderation.

Finally, many types of bones are available. I prefer the ends – often sold as knuckle bones – as they are softer than the middle part of the bone. The large, long, hollow bones (the middle part) are very hard. It is possible they are harder than the dog’s teeth, so be careful.

Dogs and puppies need to chew, some more than others. But be warned!

Anything you give your dog has the potential to do harm. Your dog might attempt to eat a piece that is too big, causing him to choke. Some dogs can swallow large pieces, only to have those pieces get stuck in the intestine. Know your dog’s chewing style, and watch him while he chews.

The first step to teaching your dog not to chew on YOUR stuff is to teach him to chew on HIS stuff.

Provide your dog appropriate chew toys, and watch him enjoy himself.

Happy Training!

Dogs and puppies need to chew, some more than others. But be warned! Anything you give your dog has the potential to do harm.

Tricia Fagan Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed DogS Gone Good www.dogSgonegood.com trainer@dogSgonegood.com (713) 557-1949

{meetthevet}

by Monica Schmidt – Houston Humane Society

sold old on

older pets make great companions!

P

uppies and kittens just might be the most adorable animals on the planet. These cute, cuddly pets are entertaining and lovable, but they often require a massive amount of time and patience. If you are in the market for a new pet, consider the pros of adopting an adult or senior pet from a shelter.

While puppies and kittens are definitely worth the “trouble” they might cause, an older pet may fit easier into your lifestyle.

Many people assume an older pet ends up homeless because he or she has a behavior problem or temperament issue. Often this is not the case. Older pets lose their families in a myriad of ways. Sometimes an elderly owner may have passed away or moved into a nursing home. Other times a family may have lost their home due to the economy and face the tough decision of giving 14

up a beloved pet they can no longer afford to care for. And sometimes the dog or cat may have ended up in a home that wasn’t the right match.

Regardless of how they ended up needing a new home, adult and senior pets make wonderful forever friends.

A great benefit to adopting an adult pet is what you see is what you get. You know exactly how big the pet will be because they are already

full grown! This is especially important if you live in an apartment or rent a home.

Many renters must adhere to weight restrictions when it comes to the pets they own.

Plus the animal’s personality is fully developed so you get a better idea of the true demeanor of the dog or cat you are adopting. This can be especially helpful if you have children or grandchildren, or if you are set on a certain type of personality.

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It is important to keep in mind that many older pets will have a calmer temperament than their younger counterparts. They’ve already outgrown the crazy puppy and kitten stage. If you are adopting an adult dog versus a young puppy, you will also avoid the dreaded chewing stage many puppies go through. A calm, older dog will require less active energy.

They are often content with {August 2012}

a brisk daily walk versus a puppy or young dog that might require hours of exercise and mental stimulation.

Depending on your schedule, an adult or senior dog may be the better fit.

When you bring an older pet home be sure to establish a new routine right away.

Many older pets are already housetrained and understand what the word “no” means.

It won’t take them long to

figure out what makes you happy. Senior pets have an abundance of love and affection to give. They also have a lifetime of experience, and appreciate the second chance at happiness you have given them. Take the opportunity to make the second half of their life the best half! To check out adult and senior pets for adoption at Houston Humane Society visit www. houstonhumane.org.

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rock& say hello to

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ock Hudson was adopted 4/2008 from Houston Beagle Rescue as a companion for my then 14 year old found on the street beagle, Doris Day. Rock had an owner who gave him away to a friend who got rid of him after 8 months. He had a large mass on his side removed before he was available for adoption. After Doris died in January 2011, I thought Rock seemed lonely and in September 2011 Jazzy joined our family. As they say at Houston Beagle Rescue, Beagles are like potato chips, you can’t have just one!

Jazzy was rescued from a Galveston shelter by HBHR. She had pneumonia and heartworms. We think Jazzy is close to 7 yrs old but a lady never tells her age!

Rock and Jazzy LOVE to travel and spend a lot of time in New Orleans riding the buggies, listening to music and hangin’ with the local dogs. They also love camping in the Hill Country and chillin’ at Luckenbach. When in Houston, they like to hit the dog friendly patios, go shopping and socialize with their neighborhood friends! Beagles Rule!

{August 2012}

Houston Beagle and Hound Rescue, Inc. (HBHR) is a nonprofit 501-(c)-3, all-volunteer organization dedicated to beagle and hound rescue. HBHR consists of a small group of volunteers who foster dogs in their homes. There is no shelter facility. HBHR provides placement assistance to shelters and individuals who need to find homes for hounds, which for various reasons, have become stray or homeless.

When beagle owners decide to surrender their beagle for one reason or another, HBHR provides assistance and advice in hopes of helping to correct any problems and ultimately to enable the owner to keep the dog. They do accept owner-surrender beagles (and occasionally other hounds) into the organization as space permits, as well as “found” dogs which members of the public have rescued from the streets but are unable to keep. All dogs accepted into the program receive the same level of complete veterinary care, fostering, training and placement regardless of how they were obtained.

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the dog owner’s

By William Given

first aid kit

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ou are a caring and conscientious owner. You provide your dog with everything he or she needs; sound nutrition, regular exercise and grooming, routine visits to the veterinarian, and lots of love and affection – accidents can and do still happen.

When an emergency occurs, reason will not necessarily prevail. There is sure to be some degree of fear and panic that will adversely affect your ability to think clearly and act quickly. And, the more traumatic the injury the greater the sense of panic and confusion you will likely experience. Knowing what to do in an emergency may save your dog’s life. Having the right materials on hand and neatly organized is also very important.

All of your first aid supplies should be kept in some type of waterproof plastic container. If your first aid kit contains any medication it should be kept safely out of the reach of children. Some items will have expiration dates so check your first aid kit regularly and replace outdated items. If your dog has a medical condition or special needs, ask your veterinarian what additional items you may need for your kit.

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Your canine first aid kit should include the following but base quantities on the breed and number of dogs you have: • Adhesive tape, hypo-allergenic, 1 inch and 2 inch rolls.

• Burn ointment.

• Compact thermal blanket, for use in the treatment of shock or as a stretcher.

• Diphenhydramine, an over-the-counter antihistamine for treating allergic reactions. This will have an expiration date.

• Grooming clippers or a safety razor.

• Latex gloves.

• Muzzle, a soft collapsible one will be more easily stored.

• New-Skin Antibiotic Liquid Bandage.

• Non-adherent sterile pads, these make excellent dressings.

• Nylon leash.

• Pediatric rectal thermometer, digital models work well.

• Penlight.

• Plastic eye dropper or dose syringe.

• Roll bandages, such as gauze wrap that stretches and clings.

• Roll gauze, 1 inch and 2 inch widths.

• Small scissors.

• Sterile eye lubricant.

• Sterile gauze pads, 3 x 3 inches and 4 x 4 inches.

• Sterile saline eye wash.

• Styptic powder.

• Topical antibiotic ointment – e.g. Bacitracin • Towels.

• Tweezers.

• Water-based sterile lubricant or petroleum jelly.

• Wooden paint mixing sticks and cotton bating for splints.

• Wooden rule or tongue depressor for use with a tourniquet.

• 3% Hydrogen Peroxide, a must for cleaning wounds.

This will have an expiration date.

• 70% Isopropyl Alcohol.

• A list of emergency telephone numbers including your pet’s veterinarian, an after-hours emergency veterinary hospital, and the ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center (1-800-548-2423).

{August 2012}

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{pawz-itivelynatural}

taking care of your

By Nadine Joli-Coeur

senior pet O

Is your Pet a Senior pet?

ld age happens to the best of us – even our dogs. As we age, we start to slow down and may experience reduced physical health and mental abilities. Not all dogs age at the same rate, smaller breeds live longer than larger dogs. Generally if your pet is over 7, they are considered a senior pet. You know the saying, “ You are only as old as you feel”.

First what are some common myths.

Myth # 1 Senior dogs need less protein than adult dogs.

In fact senior pets can’t process protein as efficiently and actually may require more protein. The truth is that there is no reason to feed a lower 20

protein diet to senior dogs.

Part of the myth started from the belief that the kidney cannot handle too much protein and lower protein will reduce calories and result in weight loss. Senior pets require a protein-rich diet because their systems are less efficient at metabolizing it. Protein is important for many reasons: it

supports the immune system and the central nervous system, it is needed for wound healing, building lean muscle, and is required for skin and coat health. If an older pet cannot metabolize enough protein, their bodies will break down their own muscle which can cause them to lose muscle mass, affect their im-

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mune system. which reduces their ability to repair itself from injury, infection or other ailments.

Pets convert protein much more efficiently into energy and muscle, and carbs are more likely to convert to fat.

Myth #2 Lower protein diets help to protect the kidneys, especially in older dogs.

High quality protein (commonly referred to as human grade) is important as well as limited processing or preservatives because your senior pet’s body does not have to work as hard to digest and they can metabolize it better.

However, if you pet has kidney issues, discuss with your vet and make sure that they regularly test kidney function on whatever diet you choose. It also won’t hurt to be proactive by adding a bladder care support supplement to their diet. There are many solutions on the market. One that we carry was specially formulated by a holistic vet called Bladder support by Herbsmith.

Myth #3 Seniors need to eat a low fat, high protein food.

Will lowering the protein increase weight less? Doesn’t a diet high in carbs, such as grains and vegetables, help a dog on a low calorie diet feel fuller? In this analogy, if we were on a pasta diet we would lose weight right? The answer is no. It is more likely that protein will satisfy your pet’s appetite more than carbohydrates and indigestible fiber. Replacing protein with carbohydrates does not really reduce calories, but it does reduce nutrition. Pets convert protein much more efficiently into energy and muscle, and carbs are more likely to convert to fat. Diets high in carbohydrates contribute to inflammation, which increases arthritis pain, and can cause medical problems and weight gain. In Canine and Feline Nutrition, authors Case, Carey and Hirakawa state, “Diets that contain increased levels of indigestible fiber and reduced levels of protein are not recommended for weight loss or for long-term weight maintenance of sedentary dogs and cats. If a diet is simultaneously high in indigestible fiber and low in fat and/or other nutrients, it is possible that long term feeding may result in nutrient deficiencies in some animals”.

What does my senior pet need?

Not every senior pet is the same.

Here are the top things that you need to do {August 2012}

1) Put your senior pet on a high quality pet food that is appropriate for them. You can lessen the impact of health issues if you keep your pet at a reasonable weight (please don’t let them get too heavy). If they are too skinny, you should try increasing calories and possibly adding some carbs (like a potato and duck formula). Also make sure they have lots of access to fresh water. Water is important to keep systems working well.

2) ALL senior pets should have the following added to their diet; omega fatty acids (salmon oil or coconut oil), joint supplement (there are a lot out there look for one that has glucosamine, chondrontin and MSM) and lastly a Probiotic/prebiotic supplement (as we get older we don’t absorb nutrients as well Pre & Pro biotics are excellent for that). Other things that I would suggest you look at are; bladder support (it is better to start before they have issues) and immunity support.

3) Keep your senior moving. Your senior pet may not be up for a 5 mile run but keeping activity is important for all pets and humans. What is your pet’s daily routine; time they get up, eat, frequency and amount of activity (walks, runs, swimming, sleeping) Love on your senior pet. They may sleep a little more but there is lots of love and excitement still in them.

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{meetthevet}

by Amy Kelley

getting to know

Dr. Christopher Teff

K

ingsland Blvd Animal Clinic is proud to welcome our newest doctor to our staff, Dr. Christopher Teff. Dr. Teff is a recent graduate of Texas A&M University (we like our Aggies here, don’t we?!) Dr. Teff is working most of the time with the Animal Minor Emergency Center at Kingsland, although you will see his face every now and again at the day practice.

Dr.Teff and his lovely fiancé, Paige, live in the Katy area, and they share their home with an English Springer Spaniel named Poppet and an iguana named

Comrade Scuddles (there was a WHOLE story and pledge to the iguana’s name, but I couldn’t remember it all to tell you!) During his down time (which he is happy to have

now that school is over!), he enjoys reading, video games, hiking/camping, and going to places like the Texas Renaissance Festival. He also enjoys taking Poppet to the dog park,

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photos courtesy Cargile Photography

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and Poppet enjoys it too!

Dr. Teff, in a professional sense, has a special adoration for emergency medicine, surgery, and preventative care.

He LOVES client education for all those he meets, because he loves teaching people things about their animals

sists of A LOT of traveling (Ireland, England, Italy, South America…. ANYWHERE!) and playing Video Games!

He is also hoping for 2 children in a few years! Good luck Teff family!

Dr. Teff ’s goal in his veterinary career is to practice the highest quality of medicine and continue to offer the best care available. He has shown this through his months with the Animal Minor Emergency Center at Kingsland, and we are looking forward to everything that he will provide to the clinic in the future.

Welcome to Kingsland, Dr. Teff!

that they might not otherwise know. He loves teaching his staff at the Animal Minor Emergency Center at Kingsland, because it makes the whole clinic stronger and his clients more educated. He is also about to sign up for a Spanish class, so that he can be more well-rounded as a practitioner, with the ability to educate those whose first language might not be English.

When asked about his “Bucket List”, he mentioned that he has only been on ONE vacation in his life, and that was to Lake Tahoe last year! So, his bucket list con-

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{dougiedeogi}

H

Dougie Deogi

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Rescue Reporter

ello peeps! It’s Dougie Deogi, rescue reporter, coming to you live from Houston.

Well, the news of the week seems to be “rescue gone wrong.”

What does that mean?

The news around the country has shown a “no kill” rescue organization that was secretly putting down the dogs in their “care” when they became inconvenient; a previously wellrespected rescue organization raided and charged with keeping dogs in horrible conditions; and a huge cat rescue in the dfw area with cats in filth.

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People are in an uproar about the dogs they sent to these organizations, but peeps, REALLY? REALLY? Dougie’s Rescue Rule Number One…..if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Do you really think in this day, when thousands of dogs are euthanized because of space, that a GOOD “no kill” shelter will have a space for your dog IF YOU PAY A HUGE FEE? Well, there are always a lot of “red flags” that have been jumping up when one of these situations occurs.

Ok, let’s get real and talk about “Rescue RED FLAGS.” Red Flag 1. A rescue, especially one that has a facility pulls lots of dogs from shelters outside their state but not from local shelters.

That is a huge rescue red flag. Ask the questions.

Red Flag 2. Always has room for dogs that come with a large “donation.”

Why? Yes, most rescues need funding help when taking in dogs, but even with large donations, most rescues are FULL TO THE BRIM right now. This is a huge rescue red flag. Ask the questions.

Red Flag 3. Spends relatively no money on vet care. Did you know that all 501c3 charities are required to publish their financial {August 2012}

statements each year? Go pull their 990 returns and see how much they spend on vet care. What would you think about a rescue that claims to have 500 dogs and spends $9,000 annually on annual vet care? Do your homework! Ask the questions. It’s expensive to maintain a dog well – basic vet care, including shots, heartworm preventative, flea and tick preventative, etc. costs easily $100 minimum per year. So if someone has 500 dogs, they should be spending $50,000 on vet care WITHOUT any serious issues and without spaying and neutering dogs. Do you really want any dog living out its life without any vet care. $9,000 a year for 500 dogs averages $18 per year per dog. Really? That’s what, three heartgard? Ask the questions!

Bottom line, Dougie’s Rescue Rule Number One: “if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

Dougie Deogi, over and out!

Dougie is the official spokesdog for Lone Star Shih Tzu & Lhasa Apso Rescue. You can catch his antics on his own facebook page, www.facebook.com/ accordingtodougie. His rescue can be found at www.facebook.com/lsstlar

Doggie Daycare, Boarding, Grooming and Obedience Training 6434 Washington Avenue Houston, TX 77007 713-868-7555 deogi@deogidogspa.com

{spotted by the pupperazzi} 26

F

urr-tastic or flea infested! The Pupperazzi is on the scene and has your tail covered!

reliantdo

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ogshow2012

{August 2012}

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{marketplace}

august The Orbee Old Soul bones are designed especially for Senior dogs. These soft, minty flavored chew toys are easy of your older dogs teeth and make a pleasing clicking noise as your pet chew in them. Available at Natural Pawz

Premier’s senior line of dog toys are designed for your senior dog’s teeth that require a softer chew. These are ideal for senior dogs who require lots of mental stimulation. Ask your local pet store about them!

Even the oldest pets become pups at heart when bubbles are brought out! Available at the Pawty Palace!

Getting old shouldn’t stop man’s best friend from sharing his favorite place in bed with his parents however jumping in and out of a bed can be dangerous for our older pets!

These PetStairz are soft on Fido’s joints and help maintain traction as he wiggles his way up to bed. Available at Natural Pawz

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Unlike many support slings, the Ginger Lead has a wide, comfy sling to support your dogs weight and also incorporates a lead connection that can be attached to a collar of harness so you and your friend can continue your walks! Made in the U.S.A. and can be ordered at www. gingerlead.com

The super absorbent Soggy Doggy is Non-slip and since we’ve been testing it, not a drop of water has made it to the tile! (and no slips!) Only problem..... my Senior keeps stealing it for a bed...

Available in bowl mats, floor mats AND wet dog drying towels! www.

SoggyDoggyDoormat.com

&

d gs cats Texas

tantics The Luca dog orthopedic beds are just what the Dr ordered to help soothe older bones! Designed with the comfort and needs of older bones in mind, the Luca bed collection also features interchangeable, water proof covers to suit any design style! Natural Pawz is the place to pick

Do you remember when your Grandmother used to say she could *feel* rain coming?

Your Senior pet does as well!

Make potty breaks easier on you both with this super soft raincoat! Available at Pawty Palace!

The Old Souls Slobber Wick collection was designed with the same hi-def contrasting colors as the Old Soul Orbees and Bones. The side panel on each toy allows for an alternate color which is easier on an older dog’s eyes. Who says old dogs can’t have fun???

Made in the USA. The Būmi is the must have interactive toy that your dog won’t want to put down!

Available at the Pawty Palace

{August 2012}

Even our pets gain weight as they age, adding additional stress on joints. The Fruitables line of treats has just the answer for this!!!!

(Its like a double chocolate 100 cal brownies for us but in a FiFi friendly version!!!!) Ask your local pet store about this!

The SnooZZy OrthoAir Dog Bed is a therapeutic inflatable dog bed that will satisfy all of your pet’s needs. This orthopedic design made of durable and long lasting materials, provides continued support for your dog’s muscles, back and hips. Our own Senior pet approved and loved!!!

Available at Natural Pawz!

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WonderPetExpoHouston.com

BRING THE ENTIRE FAMILY INCLUDING YOUR PETS! SEPTEMBER 1, 2012

THE LEGENDS SPORTS COMPLEX

602 PRUITT RD. THE WOODLANDS, 77380

Race to Educate!

Register for a end of the year luxury car giveaway

Bonzi and Pinky

in the Wonder Paws Raceway!

Enter your pet in our Most Pawsome Pet Pageant

FREE PAWDICURES

DISCOUNTED VACCINES

LOW COST MICRO-CHIPPING

HEARTWORM PREVENTION

LOADS OF EXHIBITORS Shop for the best pet products/services Pet experts Speakers/Seminars

Training/Demos Amazing Prizes/Giveaways

Donations will be accepted and distributed to participating rescues

"LIKE US" ON FACEBOOK for updated details at facebook.com/wonderpetexpo

Sunday: 9am - 9pm

Natural Pawz has opened our 9th store in Katy!

r s fo k g an Th oppin sh ally! loc

We are so excited to be joining the Katy community! We can not wait to meet everyone in the neighborhood. Please stop in and visit us soon. Let us help you find the perfect food and treats for your fur kids!

We are located at: 27110 Cinco Ranch Blvd.

Katy, TX 77494 Pets are always welcome at the store! So bring your fourlegged friends in with you when you come!

With 9 stores in the greater-Houston area, the Natural Pawz team is ready to help you navigate through choosing the healthiest food for your companion cats and dogs. Free samples are available.

All Fromm Food is Tax Free!

Valid only on Fromm Family Foods. No cash value.

Valid at participating Natural Pawz Pet Stores.

Expires 8/31/12

The Heights | West University | Galleria | Katy |River Oaks | Sugar Land | Vintage Park The Woodlands - 2 locations

And coming to Cypress SOON! 281.362.7299 | www.naturalpawz.com