texassdog and cat november 2012 v2

&

d gs cats Texas

November 2012

LOW PAGES ADVERTISEMENT

opy of your Yellow Page Ad does not reflect the quality as it will appear in the directory)

FRFiErstE

geographical location for accuracy.

no corrections. um Account Team

We Love to Pamper Your Pets

5. DEADLINE - artwork needs to be returned no later than the due date listed. There is no guarantee that publisher will accept revisions past the due date.

Exam*

Complete Wellness Care

n

Diagnostic & Medical Care

n

Dentistry & Surgery

n

Highly Skilled & Caring Professionals

n

Evening & Weekend Hours

Your Pet’s Health – Our Priority

* For new clients only. Not to be combined with any other offer. Not good for emergency examinations. Up to 2 pets per household. Expires 09-30-2013.

pports Shelters nwide

Count on us to care for your pet. We provide a people friendly environment with dedicated, caring professionals.

Call us to schedule your FREE first exam*

Wellness and early disease Houston Cypress detection & prevention VCA spRing VCA Telge RoAd State of the art medical,BRAnCH dentistry AnimAl HospiTAl First AnimAl HospiTAl and surgical equipment 10109 Long Point Road Exam! * 11430 Telge Road Extended evening andTXweekend Houston, 77043 hours Cypress, TX 77429

FREE

ritos

n

281-671-0776

713-428-2200

Walk-ins welcome Vaccinations & Radiology Spring Lake Ultrasound Jackson VCA lAKe JACKson hours VCA spRing Convenient AnimAl HospiTAl AnimAl HospiTAl Boarding & Grooming 210 That Way 1811 Spring Cypress Doggie day care & Training La Mirada) Lake Jackson, TX 77566 Spring, TX(VCA 77388 979-316-2796

832-510-6196

All backed by theVCAspringbranch.com nation’s largest and mostVCAlakejackson.com trusted animal healthcare VCAspring.com network, VCAtelgeroad.com giving you access to over 275 board certified specialists for complex cases.

Houston Katy Pasadena * For new clients only. Offer good only for general veterinary services. Excludes emergency and specialized services.

VCA AsHfoRd VCA Kelliwood VCA AnimAl mediCAl AnimAl HospiTAl AnimAl HospiTAl CenTeR of pAsAdenA 12633 Whittington 960 S. Fry Road 5018A Fairmont Parkway Houston, TX 77077 Katy, TX 77450 Pasadena, TX 77505

281-749-1174

281-944-7901

VCAashford.com

VCAkelliwood.com

Houston

Kingwood VCA Kingwood AnimAl HospiTAl 2526 Green Oak Drive Kingwood, TX 77339

VCA CounTRyside A LAKEWOOD

01 South AnimAl St. HospiTAl

1960 EastAve.) ner of South2211 St. &FMPalo Verde Houston, TX 77073

2-239-4433 281-301-0619

.vcalakewoodca.com VCAcountryside.com our Emergency (Open 7 Days a Week) ctor on Premises

281-973-2852

VCAkingwood.com

281-560-3268

VCApasadena.com Sugar Land VCA souTHwesT fReewAy AnimAl HospiTAl 15575 SW Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.VCAhospitals.com

832-500-8443

Texas City, VCA mAinlAnd AnimAl HospiTAl 3015 Palmer Highway Texas City, TX 77590

409-359-4784

VCAmainland.com

Spring/Woodlands VCA woodlAnds AnimAl HospiTAl 428 Rayford Road Spring, TX 77386

Tomball VCA TomBAll VeTeRinARy HospiTAl 28800 Tomball Pkwy Tomball, TX 77375

832-510-6197

281-305-9518

VCAwoodlands.com

VCAtomball.com

www.Facebook.com/VCAAnimalHospitals www.twitter.com/vcapethealth

VCAswfreeway.com

AAHA ACCREDITATION

Management Services Provided by VCA Animal Hospitals. • Animal Healthcare of Texas, PC. - Rocky McKelvey, DVM - owner.

RCF

{contents}

166 cover photo: sonya sellers

8

Stars Unite 6 Reality to help Save Pugs

the 8 Celebrating Holidays Safely

10 Animal Chiropractic Care Puppy 14 New Or Rescue Dog? & Pups for 16 Pucks Pet Adoption

4

&

d gs cats Texas

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

2224 28

Gail Collins Beth Roose Tricia Fagan Nadine Joli-coeur Monica Schmidt Dougie Deogie William Given

photographer Sonya Sellers

20 Cat Nutrition by 22 Spotted the Pupperazzi

Deogi, 24 Dougie Rescue Reporter

26 Pet Puzzlers 28 Marketplace {November 2012}

ADVERTISE WITH US!

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

5

{helpingstrays} by beth roose

realitystars

for meaningful kid’s series to help pugs everywhere

photos courtesy kent bryant

&

d gs cats Texas

6

J

immy Paul the Pug Toothfairy is a new series that not only hopes to provide a meaningful message of universal themes to families, but hopes to raise pug awareness through the rescue cause Pugs for Pinky.

Elf Sparkle Group brings pug awareness to Pug Americans belief that “No Dog is a Throw away,” the motto of the National rescue group for pugs Pugs for Pinky that was established in 2012 by Lisa Kerner and Nancy Metzger as a illness relief organization for sick pugs and their owners with the high cost of vet care. Jimmy Paul the Pug Toothfairy urges you to spread you wings and join in the Puggapalooza to raise funds for this worthy cause.

Jimmy Paul the Pug Toothfairy has a lot to bark about in the starstudded line up in talent for the animated series. Fans are sure to see their favorite voices in a new way as they voice the furbabies in the Jimmy Paul the Pug Toothfairy films. {November 2012}

Pinky leads the pack in trying to dispel the myth that the Toothfairy is a figment of one’s imagination, a fat hummingbird, or just a large dust bunny. She is voiced by breakout child pageant star Eden Wood, who is also using that voice to mentor young ladies entering the pageant world by way of her new Logo channel show, “Eden’s World.” Famous for her innovative and sometimes outlandish costumes- a anatomically padded and sparkling Dolly Parton, a well heeled heart-of-gold 80’s icon in her Pretty Woman costume, or just going all out with her show-stopping Vegas Showgirl ensemble- Eden lends the voice of a well seasoned and curious little lady in the pink bowed Pinky.

The Narrator for Jimmy Paul the Pug Toothfairy is none other the TLC channelmate reality star Bill Klein from the hit series “The Little Couple.” His deep baritone has BoBo as the voice of reason in this fun film. Klein hits the nail on the head with the series in conveying a message to overcome adversity and be supportive and loving with your family and friends. Just ask WWBD? - What would BoBo do?

The company’s much applauded DVD releases of Toodles the Pink Poodle, Elf Sparkle and the Special Red Dress, and Elf Sparkle Meets Christmas the Horse recent winner in the Oregon Film Festival for Best Family Film- are voiced by some of Hollywood’s most beloved actors. Rob Schneider, John de Lancie, Catherine Hicks, Erin Gray, Margaret O’Brian, and Jon Provost are but a few of the talents in the Seasonal story of Elf Sparkle.

Jimmy Paul the Pug Toothfairy will be just in time to join the Christmas rush and the new Christmas Channel from the Elf Sparkle Group. Eden Wood will voice the Christmas animated films, Ian Owens will host and introduce the Christmas Music Video’s. Bill Klein and Ed Faulkner (Hollywood Western film legend) will host and introduce the Christmas Films. It is sure to bring delight to families during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas rush and offer some peaceful time for families an d, hopefully, pugs everywhere.

7

holidays safely celebrating the

T 8

By William Given

he holidays are a special time of year. It is my family’s favorite time of year. We decorate inside and out. We look forward to friends stopping by and our relatives dropping in. We also make sure that it is just as special for our four-legged roommates. It is important to properly plan for your dog during the holidays to ensure all have a safe and happy holiday season.

&

d gs cats Texas

Our dogs, Mollie and Bella, are truly canine divas and seek every opportunity to be the center of attention. They are social butterflies who will readily accept a tasty tidbit or bully rub from anyone wanting to lavish them with the attention they desire. Here are a few tips to ensure you and your dog have a safe and happy holiday season.

Offer your dog a quiet space Give your dog a quiet place to rest and relax in the event you feel the holiday activities have become too much for him. Remember, dogs find great comfort in their normal routine.

Sweet treats are not for dogs Almost all of us enjoy sweet treats. It really is better for our canine companions if we do not share with them. Avoid chocolate, especially dark chocolate and baker’s chocolate.

Chocolate contains theobromine. It is a toxin that can be deadly for dogs.

Candies containing xylitol, a common sweetener, are also dangerous. Xylitol affects dogs by causing a rapid drop in blood pressure and it takes very little to cause ill effects. Candies that are individually wrapped are hazardous because wrappers can cause intestinal blockages and may require surgery to remove them.

Limit table scraps We all enjoy slipping our dog a special treat from our holiday plate. And, what self-respecting dog would turn down a select piece of roasted turkey breast or tasty bite of medium-rare roast beef. We must be careful not to overdo it as we can cause an upset stomach and be responsible for putting an unhealthy amount of additional weight on our dogs that we will have to work hard at taking off after the holidays.

It is best not to give your dog bones. Some bones splinter easily. That can cause a serious and even life-threatening injury. An emergency trip to the veterinarian is just not an enjoyable way to spend time during the holidays.

poinsettias are potentially dangerous. They are poisonous and if enough of the plant is eaten, it can be deadly.

Be careful with candles Keep them high and out of reach. One swipe of a happy dog’s wagging tail can cause a tragic accident. Your dog can be burnt by the candle flame or by hot wax. It could also cause a house fire.

Planning your holiday travel If you will be visiting friends or family for the holidays, please don’t surprise them by bringing Princess with you.

Make sure they know early in the planning process that you will be bringing the dog with you. Call again a week or so before you leave just to make sure that it is still okay.

If you will be flying and your dog will have to ride in the cargo hold, it will be better to hire a responsible and reputable pet sitter instead. Remember, dogs are creatures of habit. He will be much more comfortable at home. The next best option may to board your dog during your holiday trip. Visit a few kennels, and ask about their daily routine.

You will certainly find one you feel comfortable with.

If you have been thinking about making a canine addition to your family, this holiday season may be the perfect time to do it. There are many adorable and affectionate dogs just waiting for someone like you at your municipal animal shelter. Volunteers at a local purebred rescue group would be more than happy to help match you with the right dog for you and your family. You can help to save a life by adopting and what a great way to experience the “true holiday spirit.”

Spending time with friends and relatives, and enjoying comfort foods is a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays.

A little planning and preparation can make your holidays safer and happier. My wife and I, Mollie and Bella, and all at Texas Dogs & Cats wish all of you and your canine companions a safe and very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Keep decorations out of reach Things like ribbons & bows and tinsel & garland can become awfully tempting chew toys. If chewed and then swallowed they can seriously damage your dog’s digestive system. It is also important to keep tree ornaments high enough that they are out of reach if you think your dog is likely to try them for lunch.

Use caution when displaying plants Seasonal plants such as holly, mistletoe, ivy and

{November 2012}

9

animal

chiropractic care W

alter Hickman’s 14-yearold border collie, Jake, had been slow to rise for a couple of years. The dog’s hip became shaky, and he began to suffer bouts of bowel incontinence.

Was it old age or something more? The vet confirmed Jake had some arthritis, but chalked up the problems to aging.

10

A friend led Hickman to animal chiropractic care.

Also known as veterinary chiropractic, this drug-free approach to health is based on the same principals as human chiropractic, meaning a disruption of nerve flow to a body area affects its wellbeing. As a chiropractor and owner of Cy-Fair Neck and Back Clinic in Cypress, Hickman knew the benefits of correcting minor subluxations – misaligned vertebrae – better than most. “That’s what I do for people,” Hickman said.

By Gail Collins

For Jake, a couple of adjustments relieved the nerve pressure, and his hip shaking nearly stopped. Over two months, the bowl problems lessened to the occasional mishap. With older dogs, it is important to maintain a routine of care to help ease age-related symptoms and offer quality years.

Astounded with Jake’s successful experience, Hickman began the 220-hour College of Chiropractic course with Parker University in Dallas, Texas. Parker trains doctors of chiropractic and veterinary medicine to perform safe and effective adjustments. This accredited North American program prepares students for a written and practical exam by the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association (AVCA).

As the primary credential, AVCA certifies

&

d gs cats Texas

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

www.houstondogdaycare.com • Don’t forget to visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/jacksons.place

poster for cat show

persons who meet established standards of evaluation and treatment.

Hickman found the Parker course compatible with his training as a Gonstead practitioner, performing precision adjustments to the spine to treat ailments, nutrition and maintain overall health.

It is as applicable for small animals, like dogs and cats, as it is to large animals, like horses and cattle. Applying such techniques to animals has existed in anecdotal form in the U.S. alongside caring for people.

So after Hickman completed his exams in 2011, linking his animal and human practice was natural. His people patients brought their pets to him at his animal chiro clinic next door. That first pet also had its owner’s similar complaint – pain. Harrison, an 80-pound collie-mix stood on his dorsum, or with his foot turned under. With some assurance and skill, Hickman resolved the neurology affecting the spine, and Harrison walked properly.

“You keep working on them, until you don’t feel those sticky spots,”

12

Hickman said, referring to joints that are either tight or not articulating appropriately. He advised, “The idea is to be conservative, doing only what is needed until the body takes over with healing.”

Most pets are referred by their vet. So, what kinds of problems can animal chiro address?

Neck, back, leg and tail pain can be soothed or solved as well as muscle spasms, nerve issues, disc or joint problems, injuries, jaw anomalies or difficulty chewing, seizures or neurological trouble and any recurring condition such as vomiting, respiratory or urinary infections and constipation.

Unlike people, animals can’t tell their loved ones what hurts. “Animals are hard-wired not to show pain or weakness because in the wild, the weak ones become dinner,” Hickman said.

“So in the home, pet owners need to be observant.” Small issues have quick fixes. An animal that won’t look up needs an atlas adjustment.

One that refuses to jump up or down has a hip issue, and a horse holding food in its mouth could mean TMJ. Hickman has always been drawn to animals and is certified to care for horses and more.

Sunshine, a Zebu or mini-Braham cow of 350 pounds, was prepping for the cattle show at the Louisiana State Fair.

Owner Ken Charba of Blue Sky Ranch noticed there was something wrong with her gait. With a small correction of the sacrum by Hickman, the cow took to the arena where the judge specifically commented on her smooth gait. Not only that, Sunshine won Reserve Grand Champion.

“Generally, I get even more of a speedy response from animals than people,” Hickman said.

“Animals display a parasympathetic release – horses will smack their lips or shake or sigh deeply – which means, ‘That feels good.’ A full body shake from any animal is checking out the work done, re-setting their nervous system.

For information visit www.cyfairbackandneck. com and click on Animal Chiropractic or to find services worldwide visit www. animalchiropractic.org and click on referrals

&

d gs cats Texas

{puppy101}

by Tricia Fagan

new puppy or

rescue dog?

W

hen choosing a new pet, there are advantages to a young adult dog as opposed to a puppy. Young puppies, eight weeks of age to five months or more, need to eliminate with great frequency. If you have a job, or a busy family you may find it difficult or impossible to take the puppy outside as often as needed. A dog a little bit older might be the answer. Furthermore, some rescue dogs are already house trained, relieving the strain on you as well as your carpets.

14

&

d gs cats Texas

Another advantage in choosing an older pet is teething. As you may be painfully aware, young puppies have very sharp baby teeth. These teeth are replaced by adult teeth beginning about five months of age. Unfortunately, puppies explore the world with their mouth – they don’t have hands, after all!

These incredibly sharp teeth can cause difficulties with younger children bonding with a puppy. Before you know it, your children are running away from the puppy you got “for them”.

On the other hand, a young adult dog has learned what to do and not to do with his teeth. Consequently an older pet can be easier for younger children.

Your furniture can benefit from an adult dog verses a puppy. Puppies lose all their puppy teeth and then adult teeth appear. This process can cause puppies to chew . . . everything! Your area rugs and wood furniture are prime victims of puppy teething. Adult dogs chew, but their need to chew is less intense than a puppy’s need to chew.

{November 2012}

Puppies lose all their puppy teeth and then adult teeth appear. This process can cause puppies to chew . . . everything!

Adult dogs, from one to two years and older, need less attention than puppies.

Puppies are either asleep, demanding attention from you or getting into trouble.

Adult dogs have usually learned to take a break from the constant need for attention that puppies have.

If you have a large family, young children or (and?) a demanding job, a more mature dog can be a joy.

Unless you have extra time to devote to raising a puppy, save yourself the aggravation of a puppy and adopt a more mature dog.

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

15

{centerstage} this photo courtesy Monica Schmidt

pucks pups

and

I 16

for pet adoption

t’s official. Dogs are taking over the Toyota Center. Yep, you read that right.

On Sunday, December 9th, fans are encouraged to bring their four legged, furry counterpart (of the canine variety) to watch the Houston Aeros take on the Peoria Rivermen.

&

d gs cats Texas

The Houston Aeros are the AHL affiliate for the Minnesota Wild, and each season they continue to make new hockey fans out of local Houstonians. The Houston Aeros don’t just dominate on the ice; they also spend time, effort, and even money giving back to local community charities off the ice. In honor of their mascot Chilly, a German Shepherd, the Aeros have teamed up with the Houston Humane Society to raise much needed funds and promote pet adoptions. Chilly’s Pet Pals, an annual event beginning in the 20082009 season, has helped raise thousands of dollars and find homes for many deserving dogs. Now in its fifth season, this event continues to appeal to dog lovers and hockey fans alike.

Each season a group of {November 2012}

players visit the Houston Humane Society to spend the day playing with homeless pets waiting for adoption.

The dogs may not know the guys are big time hockey players, but they definitely love the extra attention. Last season a new tradition was started when the Houston Humane Society was invited to Sugarland Ice to watch an official Aeros practice. This year eight HHS dogs took in the fast paced practice and were lucky enough to be invited out on the ice afterwards. Not quite sure what to expect, the staff and players alike were surprised at how much the pups enjoyed their field trip. Four players and eight dogs spent the afternoon horsing around the ice together. Drew Bagnall, Chad Rau, David McIntyre, and Carson McMillan played

host to Phoebe (Boxer), Scooter (Labrador Retriever), Jarvis (Australian Cattle Dog mix), Eileen (Terrier mix), Yoda (Corgi/Chihuahua mix), Ziggy (Australian Shepherd) and Punch and Jinx (retriever/shepherd mixes). More than a few hearts were broken when it was time for the dogs to head back to the shelter. Although the pups won’t be making a hockey squad anytime soon, they certainly enjoyed their afternoon on the ice with a few big hearted athletes.

The photo shoot and doggy field trip were planned in preparation for the upcoming Chilly’s Pet Pals event scheduled for Sunday, December 9th at the Toyota Center.

Plan to enjoy a hockey game with your pooch, and a portion of the ticket sales will benefit the Houston Humane

Society. In addition, the Houston Aeros have a number of in-arena activities to help celebrate the day with “man’s best friend,” including a toy donation drive. For every fan that brings in a dog toy, the team will reward them with two tickets to select future home games (up to ten per person). Call 713361-7924 or visit www. aeros.com/community/ petpals for human and canine ticketing information. Be sure to “like” the Houston Humane Society and the Houston Aeros on Facebook and follow each on Twitter for fun contests leading up to the big day.

This event is a huge success each season because of the dedicated staff of the Houston Aeros. When asked about the event, Joe O’Donnell, Director Of Broadcasting & Corpo17

rate Partnerships for the Houston Aeros summed it up best, “The Houston Aeros are thrilled to once again partner with the Houston Humane Society for our annual “Chilly’s Pet Pals” on December 9th.

Over the last several seasons, this game has been a way for our pet-loving fans to take their dog to an Aeros game and meet other fans and their “best friends”. We love raising money and awareness for the HHS, and our goal each year is to make “Chilly’s Pet Pals” a unique experience for our fans and their dogs. I’d encourage any dog owner to come out and enjoy some dog-friendly fun – the tickets are affordable and it’s all for a great cause.” Joe has been the driving force behind Chilly’s Pet Pals from the very beginning, and he’s had a lot of help along the way from Chilly, Scott Henninger, Tamara Curl-Green, Gabe Presas, OJ Green, Morris Molina, Rich Bocchini, Josh Fisher, and countless other Aeros staff, both past and present.

18

meet the players & pups Drew Bagnell, the proud owner of a golden retriever named Murray, fell instantly in love with every dog at the photo shoot.

He even took the time to help Scooter, a shy Labrador retriever, get used to the ice. Bagnell, or “Bags,” as he’s known to his teammates, enjoyed taking most of the larger dogs for a skate around the rink. You can catch Drew Bagnell on the ice for the Houston Aeros wearing the #4 and playing defense for the team. He’s also sporting a new “C” on his chest this season. The veteran takes his role as captain seriously, leading by example both on and off the ice. Plus, he’s not afraid to drop his mitts to stick up for his teammates when needed. Hailing from Oakbank, Manitoba, the thing he likes best about Houston is the weather.

David McIntyre found a couple of puppies in need of a little extra attention at the photo shoot. Wary of the ice at first, David helped coax the 2 pups to explore with the help of a few dog treats. What’s a little bribe among friends, right? Far from his original home in Pefferlaw, Ontario, this native Canadian loves the Houston weather.

Look for the #26 to be playing defense on the ice for the Houston Aeros this season, and searching for the best lobster mac ‘n cheese off the ice. To keep up with his antics, you can follow David on twitter: @ davejmacintyre.

Carson McMillan hails from Brandon, Manitoba, wears #27, and willingly answers to the nickname, “Macker.” Although he does not currently own a dog, you wouldn’t know it by the way he played with all of

&

d gs cats Texas

the pooches at the photo shoot.

He found a new BFF in Jinx, a small puppy that loves to give kisses. She stole a few from Carson, and if licks were luck there’s no way the Aeros would ever lose another game. Carson made his NHL debut last season with the Aeros affiliate, the Minnesota Wild. He played 7 games with the parent club, and notched his first NHL goal against the St. Louis Blues.

Chad Rau’s own golden retriever Kobe knows just how much of a dog lover he is! Chad was all smiles as he played on the ice with several of the dogs during the photo shoot.

No stranger to Houston Humane Society, Chad has visited the shelter in previous years to help promote Chilly’s Pet Pals. He has taken on a leadership role with the team this year, acting as Assistant Captain.

Chad wears #20 on the ice, is from Eden Prairie, Minnesota, and he loves sushi, crab, and pasta. He also helped Team USA win gold in the 2005 Under 18 World Championship.

All of the dogs used in the photo shoot are from Houston Humane Society. At any given time there are hundreds of wonderful dogs and cats waiting for their forever home at HHS. Scooter is a Labrador retriever. He’s about a year and a half, and he’s very sweet. Jarvis is a 5 month old Australian cattle dog mix that gets along great with other dogs and enjoys playing with toys. Eileen is a 1 year old, small terrier. She walks well on a leash, but her favorite thing in the world is to sit in someone’s lap and get plenty of love and attention. Phoebe is an 18 month old boxer that loves to run. Yoda, a corgi mix, is about a year old. He loves playing in water, walks well on a leash, and enjoys other dogs and people of all ages. Ziggy is a 1 year old Australian Shepherd mix that is super sweet and a little bit shy. Punch and Jinx are 2 month old sisters that love to be cuddled. You can check out all of the pets up for adoption at Houston Humane Society by visiting www.houstonhumane.org.

By Nadine Joli-Coeur

{pawz-itivelynatural}

cat

nutrition

H

ow many cats illnesses can be attributed to its diet. Most people may not even notice that their feline is unhealthy until it is too late. It is much more difficult to notice the signs of issues in felines, many which could possibly have been addressed by simply changing their diet.

What you feed your cat(s) can help them avoid or minimize the severity of serious, painful, and costly illnesses.

Diseases ‘brew’ long before being noticed that is why the statement “but my cat is healthy/fine on their food” is often believed to be true until it is too late. People always ask me what should my cat eat. Simply, the answer is that an optimal feline diet consists of high moisture and minimally processed ingredients. Do you think a diet consisting of fillers, processed grains and by-products is nutritious? Cat’s nutritional needs have not changed but the pet food industry has.

As the pet food industry has grown, so has the use of

20

ingredients that may not be needed, or healthy for your cat.

KEY building blocks needed for a Cat • What a cat eats is very important • Cats inherently have a low thirst drive.

• Prevention is the best policy - when you notice warning signs they are already very sick.

Cats Need AnimalBased Protein

Cats need meat to be healthy. Cats are obligate carnivores. Humans and dogs can get some their basic nutrition needs from plant protein however cats cannot do this. Taurine is

one of the most important amino acids that is present in meat but is missing from plants. A deficiency in Taurine might cause blindness and heart problems in cats.

Cost is the primary reason that pet food companies use so much plant based proteins (grains).

MY CATs ONLY WANT TO EAT FOODS THAT ARE NOT GOOD FOR THEM.

As you can imagine it is big business for companies to create products that entice pets to eat. It is very true with cats.

Tips for Transitioning The best time to implement a diet change is when the cat is healthy. Trying to get a sick cat to eat new

&

d gs cats Texas

types of foods when they are not feeling well is not only difficult; it can also lead to a food aversion if they associate the new food with their discomfort. Sick cats are often do not eat enough. Implementing a new diet can be stressful, you need to be very patient and take it slow.

Cats are not like dogs, they will not eat when they get hungry enough.

Coupled with their low thirst drive, it is dangerous as your cat can become dehydrated which is very serious and could require that you have to go to the vet to get them fluids intravenously.

Here are some tips on changing their food

1) Be patient and go slow 2) Start small. If your cat only eats dry food, why not dab a small amount of wet on top of the dry food.

If your cats doesn’t like pate, try something that looks like what they would eat in the wild. One that has worked wonders for our customers is Tiki Cat. The tuna or chicken are the best to start . Or you can try using a little freeze dried food broken up on top of their food.

3) Put the cat food away so your cat can’t smell it. Pet food companies know how to entice kibble. They coat the dry food with animal digest spray that the cat can smell and it attracts them. Cats have a very keen sense of smell so if they smell their dry food, it may make it {November 2012}

more difficult for you to switch them. One trick I heard was to try putting it in the refrigerator or seal it and put it in another room that your cat does not have access to.

4) Gradually decrease the dry, and slowly add canned, dehydrated, freeze dried or raw.

Moisture based foods should be at least 50% of their total diet. We have seen a big increase in dehydrated and freeze dried products and this is great news for cat owners because it doesn’t need to be refrigerated (how many of us have to throw away the rest of the can because our cats won’t eat it). It is also full of nutrition and full of moisture when hydrated.

5) Stop free feeding your cat and leaving food out all the time. It is best to have 2-3 meals (no longer than 12 hours between meals).

It is actually better for them to get hungry than always having food available for them.

Most cats only need 150-250 calories/day.

The dry food bag or can should tell you how many calories are in a cup/ can of food. Leave the food down for 20 minutes, and then remove any uneaten portion. Repeat in 8-12 hours depending on if you are feeding 2 or 3 times per day

Try different brands and flavors. Many cats love the foods that are all byproducts and turn up their noses at the ‘higher end’ foods. Our two legged kids may like fast food but a diet fully consisting of processed foods is unhealthy. Look to slowly transition them to a higher quality food.

Don’t give up. Different

tricks work on different cats. What has worked well for my cat Harold is the new Stella and Chewys dehydrated single packs. I rotate different flavors and all I have to do is open and rehydrate. It is the first time, I have been able to keep him on a consistent wet food without having to switch.

21

{spotted by the pupperazzi}

howl-o-ween F

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

dog walk & expo D ogs and their owners came out to strut their stuff at the 5th annual Howl-O-Ween Dog Walk and Expo benefiting CAP!

Bridgeland’s

howl-o-ween

B

ridgelands 4th How-O-Ween was without a doubt something to Wag about! Pumpkin Carver Alfred Paredes wowed the crowds with his amazing carving skills! From Bull riding to facepainting there was something for everyone!

22

&

d gs cats Texas

Kingsland Blvd. animal open house

F

amilies and 4 leggers alike had a howling good time at Kingsland Blvd Animals Open House! Kids were able to ‘Operate’ on stuffed animals to find what they had eaten, a fun house was created with arts and crafts and pets were even able to have their ‘Paws Read’ by the mystical Madam Randlett!

{November 2012}

{dougiedeogi}

Dougie Deogi Rescue Reporter

24

H

owdy, Peeps!

How ya’ll doin’?

I had fun at Halloween parties this weekend, but now I gotta vent here for a minute.

Ya’ll know I run this little rescue program, right? We take in shih tzu and lhasa apsos when their owners don’t want them anymore.

&

d gs cats Texas

But, what’s up with peeps turning in their 9, 10, 11, 13, 15 year old dogs? HUH? Ok, you get a little puppy, enjoy all of the puppy’s annoying habits. You take him for lots of walks, forgive him for chewing your shoes and the kitchen baseboards, right?

He keeps you company when you are lonely; he listens to you when you are depressed and doesn’t try to give you stupid mating advice; he greets you every day with a “I LOVE YOU” tail wag; he acts like he hasn’t seen you in years each time you come into the room; he sits on your lap when you are sick and licks your face to make you better.

Right?

Then, when he is older and really NEEDS you - you dump him? Really? You dump him at a shelter?

What the H^%$ are you thinking?

Most adopters are looking for dogs under two years.

How much chance does your 13 year old “precious baby” that you “love more than life” have up against two year old dogs? None, nada, zilch. It’s the back door for him.

GOOD GRIEF! How hard is it to care for an old dog for a couple of years? Ok, he’s having accidents – put a belly band on him. He has to get groomed – it’s expensive. Really? So are cigarettes and cheeseburgers. Skip your fast food lunch for a week and bring a {November 2012}

sandwich from home (rocket scientist!) and you can pay for grooming. Skip one night at the bar and you can pay for his annual vetting. See, if you WANT to do it, you can – make it happen. Teach your children responsibility by setting the example.

See these two pups - these two little pups were both dumped at local shelters by their owners. One is nine and one is 13. Do YOU want to adopt them? Email me quick if you do: dougie@shihtzurescue.com.

Don’t do this to your “beloved” pet. Karma is a B@$%#!! All I can say is I hope your kids learn these lessons of caring and thoughtfulness from you.

Right? Huh? Get it?

Dougie Deogi, rescue reporter extraordinaire and spokes dog for Lone Star Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso Rescue, off the soap box, over and out.

Dougie is the official spokesdog for Lone Star Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso Rescue headquartered in Houston. You can email him at dougie@ accordingtodougie.com or dougie@shihtzu-rescue. com. You can track his antics on the Lone Star facebook page: www. facebook.com/LSSTLAR or his facebook page: www.facebook.com/accordingtodougie.

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

25

advertisehere

281.781.4727 • sales@TexasCatsAndDogs.com

Certified Professional Training “The Best Your Dog Can Be”

dogS gone good

Private In-Home Training Dog Boarding School Dog Obedience Classes Puppy Training Classes

713.557.1949 dogSgonegood.com

{marketplace}

newember All pets should have identification tags on them incase they ever become lost. Help Mr. Whiskers or Fido find their way home with these team specific id tags!

Watching the game with your best friend just got better! From Texans to Redwings, there is a jersey for all! Available at the Pawty Palace in Katy!

There isn’t much sports themed toys out there for cats but that doesn’t mean your kitty should be left out. This toy sends beams of lasers around the room for your cat to chase!

Available at Natural Pawz!

Michael Vick on a stick! You can only imagine how much your dog will enjoy sinking his teeth into this yummy Quarterback! Available at Woof Pet Bakery in Old Town Spring!

Looking for a bit of Halftime fun? This Kong football is just what you need to make that 120 yard Touchdown! Available at Natural Pawz!

28

&

d gs cats Texas

{August 2012}

29

for ks g n a Th oppin sh ally! loc

THANK YOU ! from Natural Pawz

THANK you to all our customers and friends that support us. We are passionate about our mission to provide your pet the best by only selecting healthy natural solutions. Another passion is helping pets in our community. In 2012, the need was great. In conjunction with local pet rescues, the city and customer support, we have helped feed many foster pets and meals on wheels programs in the community. In addition adoption events at our stores resulted in many pets being placed into loving homes. On October 25th Natural Pawz kicked off our 3rd annual Pawz for a Cauze by donating $25,000 worth of pet food to BARC. In addition, we have partnered with Rover Oaks to help PAWS HOUSTON. Paws Houston is a non profit organization that helps owners with terminal or chronic illnesses to reunite them with their pets while they are in the hospital, hopsice or at home.

PAWZ for a Cauze Donate today and Help Paws Houston!

With 10 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.

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

281.362.7299 | www.naturalpawz.com