Gambit Pets: Winter 2019

WHAT NOT TO FEED YOUR DOG

A DOGFRIENDLY

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Don’t feed me that!

Human foods that can harm your dog

BY KANDACE POWER GRAVES MANY OF US CONSIDER OUR PETS PART OF THE FAMILY and treat them as

such. When it comes to food and physiology, however, dogs are not like humans — and treating them like they are can harm them.

They don’t discern whether a food item is good for them; if you’re eating it, they want it. But what humans consider delicacies — dark chocolate and grapes, for instance — can be lethal to a dog.

Seeded fruits can cause issues in the digestive system, and giving them bones, particularly bones that splinter easily when gnawed, can cause punctures to the stomach or intestines. Meat drippings and fatty foods can give a dog pancreatitis.

Some groups disagree slightly on what is permissible, but here’s a list of what not to feed your dog, compiled from a number of sources, including the American Kennel Club, www.webmd.com, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Canine Journal and others.

Alcohol, even in small amounts can cause coordination and breathing problems, coma and death.

Almonds aren’t toxic but their shape can block or tear the esophagus and windpipe.

Apple seeds are cased in amygdalin, which releases cyanide when digested.

Avocado fruit, leaves and seeds contain persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

The seed also can obstruct the digestive tract.

Baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg and other spices are toxic to canines.

Bones, cooked or raw, can result in choking, and bone splinters can

cause cuts in the digestive system.

Caffeine can be fatal to dogs whether in drinks or food.

Cat food has protein and fat levels that are too high for dogs and can cause upset stomach, obesity and pancreatitis.

Chocolate contains methylxanthines and theobromine, which can disrupt a dog’s metabolic functions and can cause death. The darker it is, the more toxic.

Cinnamon oils can irritate the inside of dogs’ mouths, lower blood sugar and cause liver disease.

Corn is OK, but not the cob.

Fat, meat drippings and fatty foods can cause pancreatitis.

Garlic, onions, leeks and chives

P H OTO B Y K . T H A L H O F E R /G E T T Y I M AG E S

can cause anemia, elevated heart rate, weakness and collapse.

Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure.

Human medications aren’t made for dogs and some common overthe-counter medications can be deadly for them.

Ice cream is high in sugar, which can cause weight gain and dental issues, and some dogs are lactose intolerant.

Liver is high in vitamin A, which can hurt your dog’s muscles and bones.

Macadamia nuts are among the most poisonous foods for dogs and can affect their nervous systems.

Marijuana can cause heart rate changes, neurological issues, hyperactivity, coma and death.

Persimmons, peaches and plums have seeds or pits that can hurt the digestive system, and peach

and plum pits contain cyanide, which is poisonous.

Raw eggs, meat and fish can contain bacteria and parasites.

Raw potatoes or potato plants contain solanine, which is toxic to some dogs.

Salt, even on food and snacks, can cause dehydration and sodium ion poisoning.

Sugary foods and drinks may cause weight problems, dental issues and diabetes.

Tobacco contains nicotine, which can be lethal to dogs.

Yeast dough (uncooked) can swell in a dog’s system and cause pain.

It also can ferment and lead to alcohol poisoning.

Xylitol —a sweetener found in candy, gum, toothpaste, diet foods and some baked goods — can cause liver failure and a drop in blood sugar.

Foods aren’t the only dangers to your pets, particularly during the holidays. Gift wrapping, ribbons, tinsel, foil garland, batteries, fake berries and other decorations can be treacherous in the digestive tract and may have to be surgically removed.

Prepare your holiday home as you would for a baby or young child whose curiosity leads to exploring anything new or shiny.

Put poisonous plants such as poinsettias and dangerous objects like breakable ornaments out of your pets’ reach. Also, place gifts that contain food out of reach of pets.

And have a howlingly happy holiday.

P H OTO B Y G I O C A L D E / G E T T Y I M AG E S

G A M B I T ’ S PETS • W I N T E R 2 0 1 9

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The verdict on CBD and pets in Louisiana is...TBD Some owners swear by CBD’s effects on their pets but vet guidelines are unclear

RESERVE TODAY

FOR YOUR HOLIDAY

PLAYS & STAYS!

P H OTO C O U R T E S Y O F S I M P LY C B D

Mac, a 12 year-old black lab with arthritis, gets a treat with 10 mg of CBD at Simply CBD’s Magazine Street dispensary.

BY KAYLEE POCHE WHAT DO MAC, AN ANXIOUS AND HYPER 12-YEAR-OLD BLACK LABRADOR RETRIEVER with an easily

75-pound dog.) Treats each have 10 milligrams of CBD and come in both crunchy and soft varieties.

The most popular pet products at Simply CBD are the treats and the unflavored tincture, owners say.

About 16% of Simply CBD’s sales come from its pet products, according to Peyton Meredith, the business’ purchasing manager. She says they’ll see anywhere from three to 10 customers a day specifically coming in for their cats and dogs — usually looking to treat arthritis, epilepsy, separation anxiety, thunderstorm anxiety and hyperactivity.

“There’s still a lot of people who are just coming in and learning that CBD is a viable option for their pets,” Reich says. “So we expect that area to continue growing.”

While vets around New Orleans are having conversations with pet owners about CBD products, many are hesitant to talk about it. A representative from Natural Pet Care in Metairie told Gambit they are

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G A M B I T ’ S PETS • W I N T E R 2 0 1 9

dislocated hip, and Rex, a 16-yearold terrier mix with arthritis and hip pain, have in common? Both of their owners, Sean Partridge and David Reich respectively, give them cannabidiol or CBD, a cannabis ingredient derived from hemp plants, and say the substance has improved the quality of their pets’ lives.

“It slowed down [Mac’s] hyperactivity, which was hurting his legs,” Partridge says. “He was so rambunctious that I’d see him walking on three legs after that and holding the fourth leg up to his chest.”

Both Partridge and Reich are co-founders of Simply CBD (Citywide, www.simplycbdshop.com), a shop with five locations in New Orleans that sell CBD products for both humans and pets.

CBD tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the component of cannabis that produces a high. Early research has shown it can help animals with arthritis, seizures, anxiety and chronic pain, similar to some findings of its effects on humans, but it’s still an emerging field and CBD regulations have made conducting large scale studies difficult.

At Simply CBD, pet owners can either buy the CBD in oil and tinctures — concentrated liquid plant extract — and drizzle it onto their pet’s food or treats, or they can opt for treats that already have CBD in them, a more expensive option but one that requires less work for the owner.

Tinctures come both unflavored and in flavors like chicken, bacon and salmon in 2000-milligram bottles, and owners can tailor the dosage to their pet’s weight.

(An 8-pound cat’s dosage will differ dramatically from that for a

not allowed by the “veterinary board” to sell CBD and that they aren’t allowed to discuss it either.

When asked its policy on CBD, the Louisiana Board of Veterinary Medicine said in a statement that “Until research catches up with use, the Board cannot issue an advisory opinion or listing of acceptable uses, and dosages, for animal patients.”

The latest version of The Louisiana Veterinary Practice Act on the board’s website was last revised in March 2018 and makes no mention of CBD products.

Still, some pet owners like Partridge swear by its effects.

Partridge says that CBD was also the first treatment that helped subdue his pup Mac’s fear of fireworks and thunderstorms, and was a welcome alternative to the “dog Xanax” he’d tried previously.

“At one point the vet had us giving him Benadryl, which is like harmless for animals but it doesn’t make them less anxious,” Partridge says. “It just made him sleep.”

“That’s the thing about CBD generally, for people and pets, is that it doesn’t knock you out,” Reich says. “You can have a very functional day. … It’s not going to knock you out if you take it during the day.”

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GIVE THE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS

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The Times-Picayune Doll & Toy Fund helps make Christmas dreams come true for children in our six-parish area. Your donation is used to buy what they want more than anything else for Christmas – the magic of dolls and toys, games and gifts – presents these children would never find under the tree without your generosity.

The Times-Picayune Doll & Toy Fund P.O. Box 61065 NOLA, 70161-9979

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Sneezy Peasy Ways to reduce allergies to animals

BY SARAH RAVITS

Bring your Furry Friends for

Pet Photos with Santa Claus ANIMAL LOVERS WITH ALLERGIES often find themselves

Take Paws Rescue

P H OTO B Y L I G H T F I E L D S T U D I O S / G E T T Y I M AG E S

at

Regularly bathing your pet, vacuuming and filtering the air in your home can help reduce allergies.

“As a general rule of thumb, if a dog requires a lot of grooming, it’s probably going to be less allergenic,” he says.

Examples of dogs with continuously growing hair include poodles and poodle mixes such as Labradoodles and Goldendoodles, as well as Maltese, Cockapoos, Scotties, Shih Tzus and Wheaten terriers. Hairless dogs and cats are also options to consider.

Additionally, “Maintain a clean house,” Henry says. He also recommends investing in a good air filter and vacuuming frequently to reduce the dander present in the home.

Another way to mitigate allergies is to consider taking an antihistamine, but always consult a physician first.

If you’re experiencing a reaction to the pet’s saliva, consider that the pet also might be allergic to something, and treat it together. “If the dog is licking a lot, and you’re allergic to the saliva, treat the dog’s allergies so that both of you won’t be in contact with [the allergen],” Henry says.

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weighing the pros and cons of getting a pet. The notion of trading daily sneezing fits for fuzzy cuddles is a conundrum.

But there are a number of things to do to keep allergies at bay, including diligently maintaining proper hygiene for both pets and humans. Certain breeds of animals are also less allergenic than others.

Dr. Ned Henry, a veterinarian at Crescent City Veterinary Hospital (524 Jefferson Ave., 504-894-0752; www.crescentcityvet.com) says people who suffer from allergies are generally experiencing a reaction to the proteins present in dander, a microscopic build-up of skin particles that can be transported through dust and air. It occurs in all animals with fur and feathers, and it often is transmitted to carpets, furniture, bedding and other household materials.

Bathing a pet regularly can reduce the buildup of dander, Henry says, but make sure to use a mild shampoo if you regularly wash the critter. He also recommends giving the pet an Omega 3 fatty acid supplement, which can reduce dry skin and flakiness.

For those looking to adopt a dog that will cause the least amount of allergy flare-ups, Henry says to look for dog breeds with continuously growing hair, as opposed to dogs with fur.

Join

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10 G A M B I T ’ S PETS • W I N T E R 2 0 1 9

Must Love Dogs A dog-friendly dating app helps singles find love with canine companions

BY SARAH RAVITS FOR PEOPLE NAVIGATING THE UPS AND DOWNS OF ONLINE DATING

and romantic relationships, obtaining their best friend’s stamp of approval often can be an important part of the process. This goes for human friends, of course, but for many, it also applies to their dogs.

Luckily, there’s a dating app called Dig (www.digdates.com) that’s gaining momentum across the country. It was founded by two local sisters, with the intention of helping dog-friendly singles find true love — while incorporating canine companions into their romantic adventures and allowing

A dog-friendly dating app called Dig allows singles to find true love with their canine companions.

P H OTO B Y N I C K P O W E R S

Leigh Isaacson (right) and her sister, Casey (left), co-founded Dig, a dating app that connects dog enthusiasts to one another.

Casanova might take up the app’s suggestion to “show up on a first date with dog treats [purchased with a discount] instead of flowers,” says Leigh.

It’s not a requirement to own a dog to join the app, she adds.

“About a third of Dig users don’t currently own dogs.” Some of them

are thinking about it, while many are just hoping to match up with people who have a dog, or want to someday.

“People are looking for someone with the capacity to love, to trust, and to know they can take care of a being,” she says. “Dog people are great with that.”

DATING WITH DOGS, BY THE NUMBERS — 86% of dog owners would break up with their significant other if they weren’t into their dog — 69% of dog people agree that seeing someone is a dog lover would make them more interested in dating them One in three pet parents regularly brings their dog on dates Three in 10 dog parents have used their dog to attract a potential partner — 60% say they’ve been flirted with while walking their dog — 73% of dog parents are more likely to swipe right on a person’s profile pic that includes their dog — 78% of dog parents are more likely to go home with someone if they say they also have a dog Compiled by Leigh Isaacson of Dig Dating, from a poll of 3,500 dog owners conducted by SWNS Media Group and WagWalking. com and from a study by Rover.com.

G A M B I T ’ S PETS • W I N T E R 2 0 1 9

P H OTO P R OV I D E D B Y L E I G H I S A AC S O N

a mutual love of dogs to potentially help foster a lasting relationship.

Leigh Isaacson, a former journalist at WVUE-Fox 8, says her sister Casey Isaacson, who lives in New York and works in advertising, fell for a guy who “tried” to be a dog person. It soon became clear that it wasn’t going to work.

“He didn’t want the dog in the apartment,” Leigh says. “He’d put towels down on the couch. The dog couldn’t touch anything.”

In order to spend time with her love interest, Casey had to leave the dog home alone. She missed her while she was out on dates and grew annoyed by her boyfriend’s aversion.

“She realized it was not only a bad relationship, but it was also bad for the dog,” Leigh says.

After the breakup, the sisters conducted extensive research and decided to launch an app to keep these dealbreaking — and heartbreaking — situations to a minimum.

Now, by downloading Dig (which is available for both iOS and Android systems), dog enthusiasts can set up dating profiles, similar in format to those on apps like Tinder and Bumble. The app also allows for options when making decisions on compatibility, human-wise and dog-wise. They can even apply filters by dog size. Unlike the other mainstream apps, however, users don’t swipe left or swipe right; they click on a profile and instigate chats from there. Isaacson says clicking reduces the “gamification” of the process.

“There are five paws at the top of the screen that relate to profiles,” she explains. You can click through and read through the five profiles before making a decision on who you ‘dig,’ ‘really dig’ or want to ‘pass’ on. Once you’ve made a decision on all five, then five new ones appear.”

Dig users are encouraged to take the chats offline and meet “IRL,” with a number of suggestions and tips that pop up on the screen featuring nearby places to go and things to do.

A modern-day dog-friendly

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• Celebration in the Oaks • The R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl YOGA IN THE DOME courtesy of the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation

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