June 2017

The Definitive Source for Houston Pet Lovers | June 2017

ALSO INSIDE: KITTY GROOMING WEIGHT CONTROL + TRENDY CAT PRODUCTS

Houston's First

CAT CAFE The Purr-fect Addition to the Bayou City

Houston PetTalk Magazine

3

4

www.houstonpettalk.com

Houston PetTalk Magazine

5

6

www.houstonpettalk.com

Houston PetTalk Magazine

7

Accidents Happen. We Clean Them Up. We use all eco-friendly and pet safe cleaning solutions.

713-597-2247 www.bayoucitysteam.com DOGGIE DAYCARE | OVERNIGHT SLEEPOVER | SPA TREATMENT

Many FUN Facilities: SPORTS CENTER BALLROOM TREAT LOUNGE DAY SPA FTS MOVIE THEATER UPPER LO PARK OUTDOORS

Where Dogs Can Be Dogs

Come Join Our Family!

WWW.DOGSRDOGSDAYCARE.COM

8

www.houstonpettalk.com

TWO PAW-SOME LOCATIONS: CALL TODAY!

3113 S. SHEPHERD DR. 77098

281.815.2871

711 W. GRAY ST. 77019

713.524.2820

(281) 835-4445 14420 Fondren Rd, Missouri City, 77489

Voted Best Boarding & Best Daycare

by Houston PetTalk, Katy Times & Houston A-List

One block south of Beltway 8 on Fondren.

What we do is more than mere business transactions.

We provide both peace of mind and outstanding pet care.

Plus we guarantee your satisfaction!

Lodging ■ daycare grooming ■ Training NEW CLIENTS: 1ST NIGHT FREE!

Visit roveroaks.com/NewClient for details

www.roveroaks.com HOUSTON • 713.662.2119 KATY • 281.693.7687

10

www.houstonpettalk.com

JUNE 2017

Editorial

I

hate to admit this but the Annual Cat issue is always a struggle for me, primarily because I haven’t had a cat “own me” since college so I’m out of touch with what cat moms and dads want to know or might find interesting. The other reason for my struggle is that I find myself dreading the photoshoot. Let’s just say cats don’t always cooperate. They are finicky creatures, which is one of the reasons we find them so interesting, but it’s also this unique quality that causes them to have a little freak-out session when taken out of their environment to be photographed in studio and with flash photography. And, as long as I’m cleansing my soul with confessions, I have to admit that on a few occasions, I’ve caved and resorted to stock images for the cover.

Those that know me also know that I'm particular about having original covers but the daunting task of getting a great shot of a cat has found me throwing in the towel on occasion.

Why do I tell you all of this? Because that’s how I felt when I was trying to come up with this year’s Cat Issue feature story and cover. But, as if to come to my rescue, my friend Monica

Issue 5: Volume 17 www.houstonpettalk.com

Schmidt of Houston Humane Society called to ask if she could write a story about the new cat cafe in Houston. I had heard about the cafe but had forgotten about it and I also remembered that the cats hanging out at the cafe would all be available for adoption from Houston Humane Society. I jumped at the chance to feature the cafe because it’s unique and I love when Houston shows a progressive mind when it comes to the acceptance of animals in public places.

So that’s the story of how El Gato Coffeehouse and Cat Cafe became the cover story for our 2017 Annual Cat Issue. The cafe is vibrant, full of love for both people and animals and something that I believe is good for our community.

People that congregate for laughter and joy while helping homeless pets find a forever home has to be a good place to hang out! I hope you enjoy learning about El Gato, the vision of Renee Reed, and that you'll support the cafe by stopping by for a latte and some pretty kitty viewing (and possibly adoption).

Also in this issue is another annual favorite, the display of photos from the Pets in the Wildflowers contest, page 44. Every year I'm amazed at the

Cat's Rule!

Who says Houston's not hip and cool? In our annual Cat issue, we are highlighting Houston's first Cat Cafe. It's really cool and we hope Houstonians support this fun place to hang out and visit adoptable cats from Houston Humane Society.

Model Shaune Stauffer Bagwell, also our resident cat columnist, enjoys a fun moment with adoptable cat, "Alice" on our cover. Find out more in our feature story, page 26. Photo by Evin Thayer.

creative, beautiful entries. We host numerous contests but the Wildflower contest is the only one that we print every photograph entered…no matter how many pages it takes! I started this tradition about 7 years ago because there were so many worthy and beautiful photographs that I couldn’t bear to leave anyone out, and so the tradition has continued. Check out the happy faces enjoying some of Texas’ best natural beauty. And, thank you to Bingle Vet for being the generous sponsor of the contest this year.

We also want to give a shout out to all pet dads for Father's Day! Find some cool stuff for the cat dad in your life on page 56 and while you're in the shopping mind-set, checkout our largest spread ever of cat products...4 pages of feline fun!

Cat lovers - immerse yourself in this issue of all things cat and celebrate the unique beauty, grace and independence of our feline friends. Sniff out more cat resources in our searchable database and Free APP, PetTalk GoFetch. Find more at www.pettalkgofetch.com!

HOUSTON PETTALK MAGAZINE 14781 Memorial Drive, Ste. 510, Houston, Texas 77079 281-556-6560 www.HoustonPetTalk.com Art Director: ANDREW BURWELL © Copyright 2017. Reproduction or use without written permission of articles, editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited.

Houston PetTalk does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Houston PetTalk does not endorse any specific product or service contained herein; we do encourage you to support our advertisers whenever possible.

All photos ©copyright depositphotos unless otherwise stated.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

11

WHERE

in the

WORLD is PetTalk?

Catch someone reading their PetTalk as they travel the globe? Snap a pic and send to: info@houstonpettalk.com.

Kiev Monastery

Technician at Southwest Animal Clinic, Galina Bychkov, recently visited her native Kiev. She is seen here near the Kiev Monastery of Caves, a historic orthodox Christian monastery founded in 1051 A.D. and the largest monastery in Europe.

12

www.houstonpettalk.com

Vina Del Mar, Chile

JoAnn Oshenic was found reading her copy of PetTalk very far away...in the beautiful country of Chile.

Thanks for sharing with us JoAnn!

DON’T LET OSTEOARTHRITIS PAIN

KEEP YOUR DOG DOWN HAVE YOU NOTICED ANY OF THE FOLLOWING IN YOUR DOG? Easily gets tired or lags behind on walks

Has trouble getting up from a resting position

Is reluctant to run, play or climb stairs

Has gained weight in the past year

Limps or appears stiff after exercise

Inflammation in the joints causes pain and cartilage damage which can lead to stiffness and decreased mobility.

Ask your veterinarian to evaluate your dog’s joints today.

Shop at our online store!

Shop

Shop

Shop

Cypress VCA TELGE ROAD ANIMAL HOSPITAL 11430 Telge Road Cypress, TX 77429 281-955-9797 VCAtelgeroad.com store.VCAtelgeroad.com Houston VCA ASHFORD ANIMAL HOSPITAL 12633 Whittington Houston, TX 77077 281-497-3917 VCAashford.com store.VCAashford.com Houston VCA COUNTRYSIDE ANIMAL HOSPITAL 2211 FM 1960 East Houston, TX 77073 281-443-7297 VCAcountryside.com store.VCAcountryside.com

Shop

Houston VCA SPRING BRANCH ANIMAL HOSPITAL 10109 Long Point Road Houston, TX 77043 713-461-1121 VCAspringbranch.com store.VCAspringbranch.com

Shop

Shop

Katy VCA KELLIWOOD ANIMAL HOSPITAL 960 S. Fry Road Katy, TX 77450 281-492-2780 VCAkelliwood.com store.VCAkelliwood.com Kingwood VCA KINGWOOD ANIMAL HOSPITAL 2526 Green Oak Drive Kingwood, TX 77339 281-358-3146 VCAkingwood.com store.VCAkingwood.com

Shop

Shop

Lake Jackson VCA LAKE JACKSON ANIMAL HOSPITAL 210 That Way Lake Jackson, TX 77566 979-297-3044 VCAlakejackson.com store.VCAlakejackson.com Pasadena VCA ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER OF PASADENA 5018A Fairmont Parkway Pasadena, TX 77505 281-487-8233 VCApasadena.com store.VCApasadena.com

Shop

Spring VCA SPRING ANIMAL HOSPITAL 1811 Spring Cypress Spring, TX 77388 281-353-5167 VCAspring.com store.VCAspring.com

©2016 VCA Inc. VCA logo is registered trademarks of VCA Inc. or its affiliated entities.

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

Shop

Spring/The Woodlands VCA WOODLANDS ANIMAL HOSPITAL 428 Rayford Road Spring, TX 77386 281-367-7553 VCAwoodlands.com store.VCAwoodlands.com

Texas City VCA MAINLAND ANIMAL HOSPITAL 3015 Palmer Highway Texas City, TX 77590 409-948-8401 VCAmainland.com Shop store.VCAmainland.com

Tomball Sugar Land VCA TOMBALL VCA SOUTHWEST FREEWAY VETERINARY HOSPITAL ANIMAL HOSPITAL 28800 Tomball Pkwy 15575 SW Freeway Tomball, TX 77375 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-351-5441 281-491-8387 VCAtomball.com VCAswfreeway.com Shop store.VCAswfreeway.com Shop store.VCAtomball.com

AT VCA ANIMAL HOSPITALS, WE CARE

M

y column in the annual Cat Issue is often fraught with dangerous pitfalls. If I speak the truth regarding my malevolence for felines, mom (unfortunately also my editor) will emerge from her office in her fire-breathing dragonesque style and basically have a hissy fit. It's zero cool. If I don’t speak my mind, my compadres from the Salty Dog will have a field day. “Henrietta’s gone soft” (and they will not be talking about my midsection) or “Henrietta, what’s wrong, too much catnip?” And on the taunting will go. See my dilemma here?

After much consternation and a few cupcakes, a bag of spicy Doritos and a chilly cheese dog from James Coney Island, I decided to go for it. I don’t know if it was the sugar from the cupcakes or the fire in my belly from the Doritos having a party with the chilly, but I threw caution to the wind (and I might have broke a little wind too) and decided to face the consequences of Dragon Lady’s wrath. Not my brightest idea.

I sat down at my 1972 Royal typewriter (one of my prized possessions because I love anything royal) and began pecking out my brilliance.

“Hello fans! As your Rovering Reporter, I love sniffing out finds and fun adventures each month. Today, I have some advice for new entertainment.

Say it’s a Saturday night and you’re bored with the same ‘ol, same ‘ol of going to a movie or watching Henry chase his tail.

Try something new…go bowling

14

www.houstonpettalk.com

with cats. It's all the craze! The way I calculate it, if cats have 9 lives and you can bowl a perfect game, you should be able to get through 13 frames with only 14.4 cats.” My column goes on to say that bowling with cats would give new meaning to hairballs and praised the fast cocktail service at the cat bowling alley, Unlucky Strikes.

I put a few more tidbits of valuable information in my column and handed it in just under the 5pm deadline. I surmised that 5pm, also known as closing time, would be the best opportunity for me to live to see another day.

For all of her negative attributes, DL has one really good one she can smell a rat a mile away.

Sensing my hurry to exit the office, she snapped up my column scanned it quickly and just as I was stealthily exiting the door she yelled, “Henrietta!

My office immediately!!”

Crapola.

I trotted in with a big fake 100 watt smile and said, “Yes, Mother?’

“Henrietta, you absolutely must get over this ridiculous disdain and intolerance for cats. They are lovely independent creatures with discerning taste.”

“The last one I ate didn’t taste discerning,” I offered,

THE VALUE Of Bowling With Cats thinking humor might get me out of this jam. Not. “Henrietta, enough! Either be more INclusive, or you will end up EXclusive, meaning out of the office!” breathed the mad dragon. Oops.

While my brain was asking my mouth why it said something so stupid to a raving mad woman, I moped over to the Salty Dog, tail between my legs, bottom lip drooping.

With just a glance at my demeanor, Hortense, Penelope, Felicity, Harold, Max and Felipe jumped from their bar stools and surrounded me. "Henrietta, what on

earth happened to you?" they asked. "I'm in trouble with DL", I mumbled.

"Oh Henrietta, you're always in trouble with Dragon Lady.

We thought it was something serious," they laughed as they jumped back up on their barstools to finish their game of Five Paw Draw.

"No guys", I protested, it's really serious this time." "What happened that's different?'

Felix asked.

"Well", honestly I didn't think it was a big deal. For my column in the Cat Issue, I wrote about bowling with cats."

"What's wrong with that?"

Penelope asked. "I mean, maybe they aren't the best bowlers because they're too worried about being called alley cats but I'm sure they would still be fun to bowl with." If I could see in her ear, it would be dense fog.

"No Penelope, not bowl with cats but bowl WITH cats," I corrected.

Silence from the group.

For maybe the first time ever.

Finally, Hortense spoke. "You mean cat pins as in cats are the pins?" I nodded. More silence. The gravity of my faux paw was sinking in. I had finally crossed the line and even my compadres were standing in judgement of what I believed to be one of my best attributes, my candid sarcasm.

Then, as I stood there awash in shame, they all began laughing hysterically.

We're talking bent-over-belllaughing-with-tears kind of laughter. Oh thank God! For a second I thought they had all somehow damaged their prefrontal cortex.

"That's quintessential Henrietta", quipped Hortense, "#TemptTheDevil." Then came the fateful question from Harold. "What are you going to do about DL?" "I'm going to walk into her office and say, 'I'm sorry. Let's make up by playing a game.

Let's play horse. I'll be the front end and you be yourself."

Actually, I'm only going to say the first part and think the rest, lest I lose my face...and then I'm going to offer to take her to dinner at Joey's Grill. I hear they are serving CATfish.

Henrietta Illustration by Jim Tweedy, Colorizing by Desiree Lonsway

Henrietta On:

A RARE BREED OF FAMILY FUN! DR. MARI JON FILLA STUDENT ART EXHIBIT

MCSCOTTY MARKET

CONFORMATION FLYBALL AGILITY DESIGNER DOGHOUSE

COMPETITION & AUCTION

MEET THE BREEDS CANINE FRISBEE

JULY 19-23

CREATIVE DOG

GROOMING BARN HUNT

NRG

CANINE MUSICAL

PARK

FREESTYLE

SPONSORS:

C O M E. S I T. S T A Y.

www.houstondogshows.com

JOB#: AWS1-689-2017 CLIENT: Houston World Series of Dog Shows STUDIO#: BQR Advertising HEADLINE: A Rare Breed of Family Fun PUBLICATION: Houston PetTalk Magazine PUBDATE: Sent 2017

AD: MM CW: VR TRAFFIC: VR TRIM: N/A NON-BLEED 7.375" x 4.8125" SAFETY: N/A

COLOR FORMAT: Color FILE NAME: AWS1-689-2017 - PT Half Page Ad

Houston PetTalk Magazine

15

meet

SPENCER bradley...

is a cairn terrier/schnauzer a 7 month old lhasa/ mix with a lot of personality, wheaten mix. Bradley is a he is a big Bassett lap dog and avery Bassador sweet boy that loves loves getting also Hound/Labrador mix sitting up on thepetted, couch and likes to ridetv.inHe your approximately 3-4 years watching is lap very in old and 35 pounds.

Clementine the Hewell getsbehaved, on great laidcar!!! back, has the best with dogspersonality andgets romps quietother playful, and on and plays disposition.

Shehe loves and in the the yard, is great with other dogs. every one, gets along with approx.

1.5 years some old and Also, he still needs leash all of her buddies, and loves 15 lbshouse and just one ishappy and training. to play.

She really just one little guy! of the best dogs.

Shaggy Dog Rescue is a 501 (3)(c) non-

profit rescue group dedicated to saving Shaggy Dogs from B.A.R.C., and H.C.P.H.E.S restoring them to good health and readying them to go to new loving homes, all dogs are spayed/neutered, micro-chipped and fully socialized before adoption.

Please visit our web-site for adoption applications and information on other dogs available, and for donations!

Houstonshaggydogrescue.org

play daycare • boarding • spa

1315 Waugh Drive Houston, TX 77019

713-522-8144 www.dogdaycare.com 16

www.houstonpettalk.com

Sunset

ANIM

Sunset Boulevard ANIMAL CLINIC

Sunset Boulevard ANIMAL CLINIC

Sunse

AN

Caring for Hearts... at Both Ends of the Leash!

Emergency & Critical Care Services

Family Owned and Operated Nights • Weekends • Holidays

We are family owned and operated, so we understand how pets are a part of your family.

27104 HWY 290 WEST, STE 107 Cypress, Texas 77429

(281) 304-0039

animalERnwh.com 18

www.houstonpettalk.com

Unleashed

HOUSTON HUMANE FUN RUN

What a fun extravaganza for Houston pet lovers! The annual Houston Humane Society Fun Run and after-party is one of the best events in the Bayou City where you can have a great time and support the worthy cause of saving animals. The event raises money for the shelter and their outreach programs. Photos by Monica Schmidt.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

19

Unleashed

PUPPIES FOR BREAKFAST

Photos by: Doogie Roux

Puppies and lattes on a beautiful Saturday morning - that was the scene at Neue Creative's Puppies For Breakfast event at Market Square benefiting the Animal Justice League. Some happy event goers traded in the lattes for mimosas and got groovy to the sounds of DJs Illset and Fredster while shopping with vendors. Good times!

20

www.houstonpettalk.com

FIND SOMETHING

Fabulous WRIGHT Pawn & Jewelry Co.

Proud Supporters of Citizens for Animal Protection WWW.WRIGHTPAWN.COM Custom Jewelry | Repairs | Cash Loans 281.882.3577  6218 Westheimer, 77057

Houston PetTalk Magazine

21

The Dish

H

ey Party Animals...Did you know you can add your own pet related event to our event calendar online?

Head to: pettalkgofetch.com/event

FOR A FULL LIST OF EVENTS, DOWNLOAD THE FREE APP OR VISIT: WWW.PETTALKGOFETCH.COM furry? Is there a future Veterinarian in your family? Then CAP Kids & Kritters Summer Camp will make your child’s day!

Kids & Kritters camp is a half day weeklong camp for boys and girls ages 7-13 during the summer months at the CAP Animal Shelter & Pet Adoption Center.

Games, crafts and hands-on animal interactions make each day FUN and help children to develop a positive attitude toward all living beings. Each week offers various themes and age-group offerings.

Check www.cap4pets.org for details.

6.6.2017 1st Annual Smart Pawz Event

Critter Camp for Kids at Citizens for Animal Protection throughout the summer. Check www.cap4pets.org for dates.

Events All Month Adoptions Houston Pets Alive Looking to adopt a new best friend?

Houston Pets Alive is offering $30 ADOPTIONS on select dogs during the

month of June. Houston Pets Alive is a rescue organization whose goal is to save animals most at risk at the shelter and help them find forever homes. Visit HoustonPetsAlive.org/Adopt to view the available dogs and cats for adoption.

6.1.2017 - 8.31.2017 West Houston Subaru

6.10.2017

West Houston Subaru will sponsor 50% of adoption fees for all large breed dogs and adult cats at Citizens for Animal Protection, 17555 Katy Freeway Houston, Texas 77094. Plus, West Houston Subaru is also generously sponsoring fee-waived adoptions for cats over 3 years and all VIPs! Find your love today and learn more at www.cap4pets.org.

CAP’s Annual Mr. Magoo Dinner & Auction

June 5 through Summer CAP Kids & Kritters Camp Adoptable Dog From Houston Pets Alive

22

www.houstonpettalk.com

6pm, Free Houston TranStar 6922 Katy Road, 77024 Are you and your pet prepared for a disaster? Join Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, Harris County Public Health and the Houston SPCA as they kick off the 1st Annual Smart Pawz event. This free pet preparedness event will provide resources to help keep your pets safe in the event of natural disasters and everyday emergencies.

Citizens For Animal Protection Does your child have a heart for all things

Bayou City Events Center 6pm to 11pm Join CAP Shelter supporters for the Annual Mr. Magoo gala - a fun night of dinner, entertainment and auctions. The theme this year is Pirates of Caribbean so come dressed as your best swashbuckling self! Visit www.cap4pets.org, go to the events section to purchase tickets.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

23

West Houston Subaru Raises Funds For CAP Shelter.

6.17.17 Guide Dog of Texas Training Day El Franco Park 9500 Hall Rd. 77089 Training Days are intended to bring public awareness to the existence of Guide Dogs of Texas, while also providing affiliates with a chance to network with one another. Training Days will incorporate seminars for handlers and structured obedience sessions for future, current, and former guide dogs from Guide Dogs of Texas.

News West Houston Subaru Raises Funds for Citizens for Animal Protection (CAP) West Houston Subaru wants to say a big "Thank You" to all of the customers that purchased a new Subaru from the dealership during the 2016 Subaru Share the Love Event and chose Citizens for Animal Protection (CAP) for their $250 donation.

This resulted in $60,000 to help support the animals at CAP and West Houston Subaru added another $25,000 to sponsor adoptions during 2017.

Thank you West Houston Subaru for being one of the BEST companies in Houston to support animal welfare!

24

www.houstonpettalk.com

Local Dog "Narrates" Children's Book Real-live Nana, an Old English sheepdog who “just wants to have fun,” is the narrator of this charming picture book for ages 2-9. Sensitively written and vibrantly illustrated, the book is perfect for adults and kids to share. The kids love Nana’s boisterous antics, while the adults appreciate the lessons Nana finally learns.

Naughty Nana is as irresistible as its fluffy star. Purchase the book at www.palmcirclepress.com, and visit with Nana during her regular weekend walks on The Strand in Galveston.

COME TRAIN

WITH ALL THE

COOL DOGS!

• Puppy Classes • Day Train • Private Sessions • Group Programs • Problem Behaviors • Just for Fun Agility • Board and Train • Canine Fitness

www.missdaisys.com

Tomball, Texas | 281-255-3131

Waiting ...

For Yop u soon!

Pick me u

Your new best friend is waiting...

Adopt a schnauzer, and save a life!

www.SchnauzerRescueTexas.me Houston PetTalk Magazine

25

The Dish

ENTER PHOTOS JUNE 1-25, PUBLIC VOTING JUNE 26-30.

2016 Winner TAMMIE HO, "KARL BARX" (center), "Jelly & Realow" (left), "Cooper" (right).

PETTALK’S ANNUAL SAND `N SEA BEACH BUM PHOTO CONTEST

S ❖

❖

❖

❖

ummer is here and we're ready to hit the beach! Submit a photo of your pet on a Galveston beach, and you could win a BIG BAG full of fun beach toys and a PetSmart giftcard for your pet!

Photo entries accepted from June 1st to June 24th Public voting begins June 25th & ends June 30th Sand 'N Sea will determine the winner Winning photos will be published

❖

in the August issue of Houston PetTalk Magazine.

Photo submissions must be high resolution (1 MB or larger) and all photos must be taken at a Galveston beach.

No stock photos please.

G A LV E S T O N I S L A N D VA C AT I O N R E N TA L S 409.797.5500 I sandnsea.com

26

www.houstonpettalk.com

SINCE 1974

Houston PetTalk Magazine

27

28

www.houstonpettalk.com

Houston's First

CAT CAFÉ The Purr-fect Addition to the Bayou City

By Michelle Mantor, Photos by Evin Thayer, Model: Shaun Stauffer Bagwell

W

ho says Houston's not a hip city? With the opening of the Bayou City's first Cat CafĂŠ, we are arguably a well-rounded if not eccentric city that offers everything from a western cowboy flair that pays homage to our roots all the way to an Asian District and everything in between. Now we can also lay claim to being one of the few cities that offers a public place to play with cats - and adoptable ones at that!

Welcome El Gato Coffeehouse and Cat Cottage to the Houston landscape. Located at 508 Pecore, just on the eastern tip of The Heights, El Gato is the brainchild of Renee Reed who is passionate about cat rescue, reducing the problem of cat overpopulation and educating the public on responsible cat care.

As a self-described "Aggie, Houstonian and life-long cat companion", Renee's entrepreneurial spirit and background as a CPA all helped shape her new endeavor. "Over my 12 year career, I have worked with many entrepreneurs and have been truly inspired seeing what one can accomplish with passion, hard work and drive when you believe in your vision and the benefit it

Houston PetTalk Magazine

29

can provide the community", she notes.

So what prompted Renee to "walk out on a limb" for the love of cats? She describes her motivation in this way: "The mission of finding homes for adoptable cats is near and dear to my heart. I moved to the east Houston neighborhood of Eado two years ago and found myself living among a quickly multiplying population of community cats.

I received support from HOPE (Homeless & Orphaned Pet Endeavor) and learned the necessary TNR (Tag Neuter and Release) skills to successfully and compassionately prevent overpopulation."

To that goal, all of the cats at the café are adoptable kitties from Houston Humane Society. How cool is that?!

The cats are adoptable and El Gato can do the adoptions inhouse. Renee continues, "We are in our first phase of opening with a full service café constructed from a shipping container coming in phase 2, which is expected for late summer. But you don't have to wait until the summer to get CATffinated, as local roaster, Argus Coffee Company caters our coffee. Bottomless coffee is included in the cover charge."

Cozy and well constructed with kitty behaviors in mind, the café has fun hiding nooks, cozy window seating, perches and a custom catwalk built specifically for Renee's kittykat dream house.

The café also wants to reach out to the public for events and special offerings for both adults and kids. From yoga with cats to arts and crafts and Caturday morning

30

www.houstonpettalk.com

cartoons, Renee has something for everyone that loves felines.

In addition to the noble goal of fostering Houston Humane Society cats, El Gato Coffeehouse also serves to educate the community on TNR with the intention of providing the tools and knowledge that will empower others to make positive impacts in their neighborhoods too. As many have experienced, cats can populate very quickly into a burgeoning colony and the practice of TNR is an excellent tool to combat the problem.

TNR programs are offered by numerous shelters and rescues in the Houston area.

If you are a cat enthusiast and want to support Houston's one and only cat café, stop by for a visit to play or for some "cat therapy" during the current soft-opening business hours of 3-7pm Tuesday-Thursday and 3-8pm Friday-Sunday. Stay tuned

for phase 2 when the open hours will expand, the food service will commence, and beautiful kitties looking for a home will be ready to greet

you. You can keep up to date by visiting El Gato on the web at www.elgatocoffeehouse. com. I mean really, how better to spend leisure time than

relaxing with felines, having a coffee and perusing a good magazine like Houston PetTalk? We hope to see you there!

Adoptable Cats

AT EL GATO COFFEEHOUSE AND CAT CAFÉ, FOSTERED FROM HOUSTON HUMANE SOCIETY.

Harley

Francesca

Alice

Daisey Houston PetTalk Magazine

31

FAT CATS AND WHAT TO DO WITH THEM Sydney Helbling Castillo, DVM VCA Kelliwood Animal Hospital

S

ome studies suggest that up to 63% of the cat population is overweight. This indicates that cat owners are more likely than not to own an overweight cat. So what can you do to help your cat eliminate excess fat? In broad terms, you can increase your pet’s activity and make good diet choices for your pets.

How can I increase my cat’s activity?

Increase your playtime together. This can be fun for your cats and for you! Toys that have elements of unpredictably, hide and seek, and chase are good toys for interactive play. These include cat dancers, cat teasers and laser pointers. Remember that while your pet may not move or play much at first, an engaged, attentive cat burns more calories than a sleeping or sedentary cat.

Promote spontaneous play at home.

Choose toys for your cat that are interactive, such as lightweight toys that are capable of lots of movement when batted, cat tunnels, and toys with catnip. It can also help to rotate toys, thereby keeping toys “fresh” and “new”. Additionally, hiding toys around the house, or placing toys in just out of reach places, like hanging them from doorknobs, can help promote play.

Make everyday activities, such as eating and leisure, more engaging.

Increasing thought stimulation during meals can be accomplished through puzzle or interactive feeders. Or, have your cat “work for its food” by throwing your cat their dinner one kibble at a time

32

www.houstonpettalk.com

(if they eat dry food), or placing their meal in multiple bowls throughout the house for them to find and eat.

As for leisure, incorporating cat furniture near windows and window shelves will increase climbing and jumping and the view of the outdoors is mentally stimulating. Additionally, moving favorite sleeping spots to different rooms or floors increases the range of activities in the house.

Remember, new activity should be gradually increased over time. Cats that are overweight are more likely to obtain musculoskeletal injury. Questions about whether your cat is fit to engage in new activities should be directed towards their veterinarian.

How can I make good diet choices for my cat?

It may be necessary to consider a food change as a part of your cat’s weight loss plan. Simply reducing the amount of food your pet eats with the purpose of reducing calories can lead to reduction in essential nutrients your pet needs from their diet. Feeding your pet a food that is high in nutrients but low in calories is an appropriate choice when your pet needs to lose weight. These high nutrient-tocalorie ratio foods allow pets to get their full daily nutrients with fewer calories.

Additionally, these foods are often made with a high volume-to-calorie ratio, which

helps pets to feel more full when ingesting fewer calories.

Once a food is chosen, it is necessary to determine how much your pet should eat of that food. The amount could be different than what they were eating previously, even if it is the same food. If a decrease in food is recommended, this change should be done slowly and in small steps as directed by their veterinarian. A food scale or a measuring cup is recommended to most accurately portion out your pet’s food.

Please note, changing an overweight cat’s diet is not a process without possible complications. Overweight cats that eat too little or not at all can develop severe disease of the liver, called fatty liver. 3 It is important to consult their veterinarian about diets they recommend and how to make changes to your cat’s diet before doing so.

If this article has piqued your curiosity about over nutrition and obesity in cats, several useful resources include: ❖ The Indoor Pet Initiative indoorpet.osu.edu/cats ❖ Association for Pet Obesity Prevention petobesityprevention.com ❖ ASPCA Cat Nutrition Tips ❖ www.aspca.org/pet-care/ cat-care/cat-nutrition-tips

What is included in a professional grooming?

All salons are different as to what is included in grooming. At Pampered Pet Inn, a groom would include nail trim, hair cut, bath and blow drying (if the cat tolerates drying) and ear cleaning. Not all cats need hair cutting so we also offer baths only which includes nail trim, ear cleaning, wash and drying.

What is the range of cost?

For our salon, baths range from $4565 and grooming (haircuts) range from $65-95.

Do you offer any specialty services?

Q&A with Pampered

Pet Inn Feline Groomer, Ellen O’Connor

G

rooming your cat is essential for their health. From brushing to nail care to ear cleaning, kitty hygiene is a must. PetTalk sat down with groomer Ellen O'Connor from Pampered Pet Inn to get the low down on keeping felines looking fine!

Do only long-haired cat needs professional grooming? How often should cats visit the groomer?

Yes, all cats require occasional grooming. Some cats require more frequent grooming due to matting or fleas but all cats, no matter the hair length, can benefit from grooming to remove dead hair, dander and reduce shedding. Also, frequent bathing can help reduce allergies in pet owners.

We understand that cats should be introduced to professional grooming as youngsters to get them accustomed to the process. However, what if someone has an adult cat

that has not been to a professional groomer, what type of techniques do you employ to help them be more comfortable?

Many adult cats that have not experienced bathing and grooming do just fine if they visit an experienced, gentle, patient groomer. As a groomer, you recognize quickly if a cat is going to be accepting with gentle restraint or if they will need sedation. If sedation is required, we recommend the cat see their veterinarian for grooming. Cat groomers are not health professionals and too many things can go wrong so it’s best for the safety of the cat and groomer if sedation is done at the vet’s office.

We have a separate boarding area for our kitty guests that is not attached to the dog boarding area. We feel this is less stressful for the cats. I also want to mention that our 2 cat groomers have 30+ years experience!

Are there any new techniques or specialty cuts that are trendy these days?

Most cat grooms are for comfort and shedding. We do style the traditional Lion cut, which has many variations. For instance, leaving fur on front legs or just boots, leaving full tail or a sleek lion tail with a poof at the end. We can also do Mohawks and other owner requests.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

33

34

www.houstonpettalk.com

W

hile training a cat may not be as easy as training a dog, cats can still be willing partners to learning.

With time, patience, and the proper motivation, you can teach your cat a great many tricks, from something as easy as a sit pretty to as complicated as an entire agility course! Training your cat just takes a few basic steps: ❖ Find the right motivation: Most cats can be taught with the right treat – whether an actual cat treat from the store or a little piece of chicken or tuna. Others may work off toy stimulation or sometimes even petting, but find what works for your cat. ❖ Try working with your cat around mealtime. A hungry cat is a motivated cat. ❖ Start small: If you want to teach a cat to walk across a balance beam, you first have to get the cat to get ON the balance beam.

Reward small tries at first, and then slowly reward only the tries that are closer to what you’re actually looking for. ❖ String together behaviors: If you want to teach your cat to play patty-cake, first you have to teach your cat high five on both sides. First, put your hand up and place your cat’s paw on your hand and then immediately reward. Do that several times, slowly working toward holding off giving the reward until the cat picks up her paw herself and places it on your hand, then immediately reward.

Next, do the same with the other paw. The cat will respond to which hand you’re using. ❖ Slow and steady: Short frequent training sessions work vastly better than long drawn out ones. Be patient! ❖ Cats will learn to learn: The more time you spend teaching your cat tricks, the more your cat will be a willing participant in the learning process!

With patience, training can be a great avenue to bond with your feline. And who knows? Your cat may become the next YouTube sensation!

Catherine Naber is the owner of Cat’s Canine Academy Dog training, operating in the Northwest Houston and Cypress areas.

Her degree from Texas A&M University emphasizes Animal Behavior and Psychology.

Photo by: Evin Thayer

TRICK OR TREAT? HOW ABOUT BOTH!

By: Catherine Naber, with her cat "Liam"

Photo by: Evin Thayer

BREED PROFILE:

Maine Coon THE GENTLE GIANT OF THE CAT WORLD

M

eet "The Mighty Cesar", a stellar example of one of America's favorites breeds of cat, the Maine Coon. As one of the largest domesticated breeds of cat, the Maine Coon hails from New England and is considered to be very social while also having excellent hunting skills.

Known for their beautiful coat of fur, what may come as a surprise is their communication abilities. Maine Coons vocalize with a chirping trill rather than

a meow, an incongruous sound coming from this "gentle giant" breed.

As for "The Mighty Cesar" personally, he knows he has good hair and wants to keep it that way! Owner Marie Bosarge notes, "He is groomed by a personal groomer with Haute Pets that visits our home monthly for his Haute Spa Day." Having a personal groomer is not the only spoiling this beautiful boy gets. "He loves to eat whipped cream served to him from a Sterling Silver spoon" laughs Marie.

As an owner of other Maine Coons over the years, Marie shares that she loves the breed because they are "the

dogs of the cat world" with their gentle nature, social skills in getting along with both people and pets, their enthusiasm to play and their love of snuggling.

All in all, Maine Coons are well suited to any home with people who will love them and give their gorgeous coat a weekly combing. As with most cats, it's best to keep them indoors to protect them from cars, diseases spread by other cats and attacks from other animals.

To learn more about the Maine Coon breed, visit the Cat Fanciers Association website at www.cfa.org.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

35

feline FACTS

1 2 3 4 5 6 36

The Milk Myth:

Many cats have a lactose intolerance and giving milk can cause upset stomach and diarrhea.

Critter Control:

One flea can mean thousands in a matter of days, so be mindful to check your cat regularly. If your cat is an outdoor cat or if you also have dogs, use parasite control. 2017 is proving to be a banner flea year!

For Cats Only:

Never give dog or human medications to a cat because it could be fatal!

Follow your veterinarian’s instructions.

Don’t Be Fooled By Their Silence:

Housecats are much less likely to see a vet regularly than their canine counterparts, to the detriment of their good health. Cats are masters at hiding problems, often until it’s too late. An annual check-up is a must for good feline care.

Throw Up is Ok! Not so fast. Here’s Why:

While it’s true too many cats vomit too often, throwing up is a sign of an underlying problem that requires attention. There are reasons kitties throw up. Hairballs are just one of them.

Dry Kibble Only? Not A Good Plan:

Dry kibble only as a diet is a problem…because it’s DRY. High moisture content is required in order to prevent organ dysfunction, including kidney failure. According to Dr. Karen Becker, cats (and dogs) are designed to eat food that is about 70 percent moisture and if you only feed your pet dry food, he's getting only about 12 percent moisture rather than 70 percent. This is especially unhealthy for cats because they don't supplement their moisture intake by drinking large amounts of water like dogs do.

www.houstonpettalk.com

Come Board with Us! 24/7 Staff on Site…..24/7 Onsite Cameras

5 OFF LEASH walks a day * last walk 9pm – 10pm No additional charge for Meds, Hugs or Kisses

3663 S Dairy Ashford (between Westpark & WestparkTollway) www.roversromphouse.com 832-328-5844

38

PLAYCARE rates Half Price with Boarding

Weekends and Holiday Pick-Ups

(we do not hold pets hostage as we know how badly they are missed)

PLAYCARE, BOARDING & GROOMING www.houstonpettalk.com

Cat–tastic

FINDS FOR FELINE LOVERS To The Rescue

Invented by a veteran firefighter/paramedic who was constantly challenged to get frightened animals out of emergency situations, this breathable rescue bag can be lifted out windows safely during evacuation. PetRescue can be purchased at www.mybabyrescue. com/petrescue

Cat On A Leash?

Sure!

Yes, cats can be taught to walk on a leash. Attach this marinegrade rope and hardware to a harness and start your feline on a path to outdoor journeys.

The individually-numbered, stamped tags on each FOUND leash allow us to keep track of the number of animals FOUND MY ANIMAL has helped so far with their mission of rescue.

Available at Carter's Pet Depot, 9333 Katy Frwy.

Legally Enjoyed

By Cool Cats

Colorado Kitty Pot is natural catnip packaged in Colorado Springs, CO. as part of Harley's Hope Foundation, a nonprofit organization that helps low income individuals and their pets stay together by financially assisting when issues arise.

Purchase at www.coloradokittypot.com.

Lovin' This Litter

Cats Incredible™ Clumping Cat Litter has Smell Squasher™ technology that actually prevents ammonia from forming in the litter box. Virtually no dust, low tracking, an easy-to-pour spout.

Non-toxic, long lasting formula.

Available at Patti's Pet Depot, 14618 Memorial Drive.t www.petdepotmemorial.com.

Cat Candle Collection

Hand-crafted all-natural soy candles for the cat lover in your life - with a portion of sales going to cat charities! www.shenandsam.com/shop

40

www.houstonpettalk.com

Safe Kitty

Nuzzle is a subscription-free GPS pet tracker that always keeps pets healthy and safe, giving pet owners peace of mind no matter where they are. Purchase Nuzzle at www.hellonuzzle.com.

Just A Heartbeat Away

The snuggle kitty relieves anxiety with its “real-feel” heartbeat and heat pack that mimics being part of a pack, working to ease loneliness, fear, and separation anxiety. If your feline is lonely, get a Snuggle Kitty at www.amazon.com.

Hair Be Gone

Got pet hair? No More! Flint is the world's first retractable, reusable, refillable lint roller! $7 at www.meetflint.com.

Travel Time

Don't you think it's time for your furry one to travel in style? The finest leather carriers can be purchased at Carter's Pet Depot, 9333 Katy Frwy. www.carterspetdepot.com.

You Name It

Find the purr-fect gift for the catlover in your world. From mugs to picture frames, journals and more, there are many personalized gifts to choose from. www.missdesignberry.com

De-Lish Kitty Food

Tiki Cat food is all the rage for kitties with discriminating palates. Healthy and tasty, get some for your kitty cat at www.tikipets.com.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

41

Stick It

Perfect for cat lovers, this roll of 180 inches of duct tape features an adorable Cats & Paws pattern, great for big and small DIY and craft projects. $12.60 for 6. www.maxwarehouse.com

Playtime

Your little feline will love this orange and blue spool and ball with feathers! Durable and soft, it’s great for interactive play. Comes in blue/orange and green/pink. www.maxwarehouse.com

For Your Eyes Only The Cat Videocam is the essential device if you want to know everything about the behavior of your cat. It's tiny size is comfortable and the camera has night vision plus a movement detector to stop recording when your cat sleeps www.eyenimal.com

Slumber In Style

Dharma Dog Karma Cat® beds are beautiful and cozy havens for your cat and are sustainably handcrafted of all-natural Himalayan wool by women in Nepal.

The wool is not chemically cleansed and retains a high content of lanolin oil which cats love, and also helps keep their fur and paws healthy and shiny. Find a selection of beds at Kriser’s Natural Pet Stores in Houston, www.krisers.com.

Treat Me Nice

Eyenimal’s interactive new Spin and Treat Ball keeps cats entertained all by themselves! This exciting toy turns around on its own, dispensing tasty treats or dry kibble as it goes and motivating your cat to keep playing. Battery operated and covered by a two-year warranty. www.eyenimal.com

42

www.houstonpettalk.com

Climb Aboard

Is this not the coolest?? This ultimate treehouse and swing gives your little lion a place to rest, a place to stretch, and even a place to play, all while blending seamlessly into any home decor.

Available at www.houzz.com.

The Grass Is Greener

The Urban Produce Wheatgrass Kit not only keeps our kitties busy, but it promotes a healthy lifestyle as well.

Cats love to chew on the stalks of wheatgrass; they’re full of nutrients and enzymes that fight tartar buildup and create a healthy coat. www.urbanproducedirect.com

Whisker Licking Good

Your feline will love you fur-ever when you bring home tasty morsels from Stella & Chewy’s in delicious flavors including Salmon, Turkey, Chicken and Goose. Available at Carters Pet Depot, 9333 Katy Frwy.

Sleep and Play Cat Bed

The Teepee style enclosed cat bed provides the feeling of safety and solitude, and features a dangling sherpa pompom and bell for a little fun while lounging.

Available at www.houzz.com.

Pretty Kitty

If you're all about cats, what could be better than a wrist full of kitty kat charms, all handmade by local Houston jewelers, Esquivel and Fees? Stop by their beautiful store to shop their creative and unique pet jewelry. 2368 Rice Blvd., 77005. www.efsterling.com.

aPeale-ing art

The most original, thoughtful gift you can give the kitty parent in your life, a custom painting from the talented Kristel Peale, www. petandalette.com, starting as low as $75.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

43

B E ST D O G G I E B AG S I N TOW N !

3939 SAN FELIPE, HOUSTON 77027

713.528.2264 | WWW.OUISIESTABLE.COM

Surfboard optional, best friend mandatory.

Toby

Providing Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals on Galveston Island since 1974.

409.797.5500 • sandnsea.com

44

www.houstonpettalk.com

1ST

PLACE WINNER!

Misty & Mollie

Wildflower Photo Contest

P

etTalk's 10th annual Pets in the Wildflowers Photo Contest sponsored by Bingle Vet brought in record entries once again with terrific shots! As is our tradition, we print them ALL because they are all so creative and cute! Finalists were chosen by public voting and the winner was chosen from the finalists by Bingle Vet staff. The top dog award goes to “Misty

& Mollie�. Bingle Vet is a family-owned veterinary practice committed to the compassionate care of pets while providing impeccable service to pet parents at two locations: Spring Branch/ Memorial and Katy. Visit them at www.BingleVet.com to learn more. Thank you Bingle Vet for your generous sponsorship!

2ND

3RD

PLACE WINNER!

Sydney

PLACE WINNER!

Bourbon

FINALIST

FINALIST

Holly

Smiling for Sunshine

FINALIST

FINALIST

Blue Skye

Blevins, Lacey, Wrigley, Hercules & Olive

Ava

Blevins

Blitz

Bolt

Brendon

Brownie

Charlie

Charlie

Daisy

Finn

Hana

Justice

Koby

Lucy

Eydie

Katy

Riley

Roux

Sam

Toby & Samson

Hondo

Jacob

Joplin Rose

Mango, Buffet

Monkey

Parsons Pearl

PorkChop

Reba

Radd, Rocky, Midnight

Smoke

Sully

Toejammy

Health

CAT Emergencies 6 SIGNS OF TROUBLE

By Laura Noaker, DVM | VERGI Emergency and Critical Care Hospital | www.vergi247.com

L

et’s face it, having a cat is a commitment and they certainly don’t come with warning labels. One way of becoming a good cat owner is getting to know your kitty well enough to pick up on signs that something could be wrong. Sometimes cat owners don’t understand the most common cat emergency situations and neglect to get help until it's too late. Although some emergencies come on suddenly and are anything but subtle, many others start with vague symptoms. Early recognition of emergencies will improve the chances of a good outcome.

The following list is designed to help recognize feline emergencies:

Difficulty breathing Breathing problems in cats can be hard to recognize at first. Symptoms to watch out for are heaving sides, breathing with the mouth open, coughing, wheezing, abnormal respiratory noises, and the catch-all appearance of “breathing funny.”

Stopping eating and/or drinking This could mean serious trouble. It’s not normal for any cat, when food is available, to go a full day without eating. This may be a symptom of many things including kidney failure,

50

www.houstonpettalk.com

complications of diabetes and even intestinal obstruction.

for an extensive period, and not reacting to stimuli such as food in a normal fashion.

Vomiting and/or diarrhea

Seizure

This is a sign that requires immediate veterinary attention, especially if blood is present.

We all know cats occasionally yak or have soft stools, and such incidents usually aren’t emergencies. But cats who vomit repeatedly or have blowout diarrhea should see the vet immediately.

Cat owners should be aware that seizures often come in clusters that get worse over the course of several hours.

They can also be a symptom of exposure to toxins such as mold or low-quality flea control products. Cats who suffer a seizure should go straight to the vet.

Profound lethargy or collapse

Signs of severe pain or obvious distress

This should trigger trouble followed by an urgent trip to the vet. Profound lethargy often manifests as “not moving,” hiding in a single room

Pain itself always warrants treatment, but it also can be a sign of more serious problems such as urinary obstruction or aortic thromboembolism.

Symptoms of pain and distress include vocalizing like howling, panting, hiding, and overreacting to contact with a painful area.

This is by no means a complete list and there are other more obvious emergencies such as cat fights, major trauma, gaping wounds or massive hemorrhage. One more thing to remember, sometimes cats who have fallen from high elevations, been hit by cars, struck by garage doors, or attacked by other cats or dogs can have major internal injuries can appear unharmed after the incident. Any time you are aware of such an occurrence, don’t take a chance, get your cat checked out.

Health

FITNESS Initiatives

AN EXERCISE REGIME FOR YOUR PETS By: Nancy Doyle, MPT and Kate Lawrence, www.gcvs.com

N

ow that we’re in the heart of summer, many people (and their pets) are struggling to find ways to beat the heat while still developing healthy lifestyles through exercise.

For us humans, a controlled environment like a gym or a specialized routine with a personal trainer is ideal. For our pets, much the same is true! As we all know, summer in Houston is HOT, and our pets are much more affected by heat and outdoor exercise than the average human. An indoor, monitored environment is the best place for our pets to get back in shape, especially those pets that are just beginning their fitness initiatives. Fitness is a great goal (for both humans and canines!) but it's very important to build an exercise regimen that will protect your pet from injury; one of the best ways for your pet to achieve a healthy fitness goal is through an individualized program specific for your pet's needs.

A physical therapist specializing in animal rehabilitation can develop a plan that is tailor-made for your pet, taking into account his or her current fitness level, age, and other health concerns.

When pets are overweight, their entire bodies experience increased stress, contributing to increased risk of orthopedic injury, as well as accelerating the progression of any

52

www.houstonpettalk.com

arthritis they already have.

Unhealthy pets can also be affected by problems like heart disease, diabetes (yes, our pets can get diabetes!), skin problems, and can even lead to the premature death of the pet. Pets’ individual needs can be met through customized individual programs designed by a physical therapist specializing in animal rehabilitation. For out of shape dogs focusing

on weight loss, for example, exercise in a water treadmill system allows the physical therapist to modulate the intensity of the patients’ workouts through water height and the speed of the treadmill belt. The buoyancy of the water also protects patients’ joints against disproportionate concussive forces generated by excess body weight, all while resisting movements for strengthening. Appropriate

water temperature aids in effective cooling; the added benefit of being indoors is enjoying the air conditioning! Each individual patient's needs and the goals for therapy determine how each of these treatment variables are employed.

In addition to cardiovascular exercise in an underwater treadmill, the physical therapist can incorporate additional “land based” therapeutic exercises to address all facets of wellness and fitness, including strengthening, balance training/body awareness, and coordination activities. Dogs with orthopedic issues, such as osteoarthritis or joint diseases, experience particular benefits from these activities; dogs without orthopedic disorders can attenuate their risk of developing them. Stretching, massage, and physical modalities (including LASER, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation) may be employed for dogs with additional needs as well.

Now is always the best time to begin a habit of healthiness for both you and your pet, but it's important to work through a veterinary professional when starting out with your pet to avoid injury. If you would like to learn more about health and your pet, check with your family veterinarian, or consider a referral to a physical therapist specializing in animal rehabilitation - your pet will thank you!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

53

Stuff We Love for Dad Father's Day Finds

C

elebrate the Cat Dad's LOVE for his feline friend with a fun kitty daddy gift. ALL AVAILABLE ON ETSY.

It's totally true, real men have a soft side for cats. Deal with it.

For the Rugged Outdoorsy Cat Dad: Shaving soap with vanilla, bay leaf, cedarwood and bergamot, all revealing a warm tobacco vanilla scent.

These mugs will make the feline daddy on your shopping list light up with a smile!

He'll drink to that...cat dad and proud of it. Enough said!

Tie one on Dad - The Purr-fect gift for the father who means business when it comes to lovin' his feline friend(s).

54

www.houstonpettalk.com

OUR PASSION IS

EMERGENCY MEDICINE

THE TRUSTED CHOICE Emergency Care Services Offered: • Trained doctors & veterinary assistants • Blood pressure monitoring • Cardiovascular monitoring & ECG • Emergency surgery • Emergency examinations • Advanced diagnostics • In-house labwork

• Oxygen therapy • Blood transfusions • Pain management • Traumatic wound care • Pulse oximetry • Digital radiography • Ultrasound, Endoscopy

EMERGENCY CARE 713-941-8460

Exit 35

Sam Houston Tollway

Pkwy ity eC

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

18

FM 5

VCA ANIMAL EMERGENCY HOSPITAL SOUTHEAST CALDER ROAD

y

Hobbs Rd

Le a g u

Edgebrook Dr

Calder Dr

18

FM 5

f Fw Gul

Mon-Thu 6:00 PM - 8:00 AM Fri 6:00 PM - Mon 8:00 AM 24 hours on Holidays

45

Landi n g lvd B

VCA Animal Emergency Hospital Southeast Calder Road

VCA ANIMAL EMERGENCY HOSPITAL SOUTHEAST

610

281-332-1678 1108 GULF FREEWAY S., #280 LEAGUE CITY, TX 77573 VCAcalderroad.com

Fwy L a Porte

45 288

Clearwood

Mon-Thu 6:00 PM - 8:00 AM Fri 6:00 PM - Mon 8:00 AM 24 hours on Holidays

10 610

South Fwy

VCA Animal Emergency Hospital Southeast

10331 GULF FREEWAY HOUSTON, TX 77034 VCAemergencyse.com

59

Link Rd

Tail End

GROOM Texas

A PROFESSIONAL EVENT AT THE HOUSTON DOG SHOW By: Carol Felbaum – Award Winning Dog Stylist | A Dog's Life Pet Salon | www.adogslifepetsalon.com

T

he Houston World Series of Dog Shows welcomes the Groom Texas Grooming Show’s return for a third year. Groom Texas gives professional groomers the opportunity to attend educational seminars, grooming competitions, as well as network amongst those that share their passion for dogs. It provides an incredible platform for those of the dog show world and professional grooming industry to learn and share together

56

www.houstonpettalk.com

This year professional groomers will have three full days of educational seminars offered by nationally known grooming industry leaders.

Topics will include, but aren’t limited to, business management, bathing, mixed breeds, poodles and grooming tips from the show ring.

New at Groom Texas is the introduction of Groom Team Sanctioned grooming competition. Competitors can accumulate points thru competition to earn a top 10 spot

on Groom Team USA. The team travels abroad every couple of years to compete in the world competitions.

Top local and national pet stylists will compete in Breed Standard and Creative Styling grooming competitions. Each tournament will offer three levels of competition, based on skill level. National recognition and large monetary prizes will be awarded to the winners.

Groom Texas welcomes pet owners to come and watch

the competitions up close and personal. It’s a great opportunity to get a bit of insight of the grooming industry.

To find the schedule for the grooming competition, watch for the dog show schedule updates at www.houstondogshows.com.

Groom Texas welcomes pet owners to come and watch the competitions up close and personal at the Houston Dog Show, July 19-23 at NRG Center.

Puppy Parent Coaching

(Relieving your stress through a PROVEN system. No guessing)

Puppy Pit Fall Prevention/Early Development and Custom Training Programs Evaluator for AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, Canine Good Citizen, Community Canine and Urban Dog Test Puppy Partners Pack Socials Program How to Choose the Right Puppy Start your New Year as a puppy parent off right, without guess work.

Helping you raise your puppy by giving you the education, tools and coaching to make your new puppy a success, is our field of expertise.

Helping you prevent the overwhelming frustration and failure many puppy owners experience, with our proven Thinking Dog system, NOT experimentation.

Website

Facebook

Tail End

MALE CATS FIS DIAGNOSING EARLY IS KEY

About Shaune: Shaune Stauffer Bagwell is a model, lifetime "catvocate" and volunteer for animal causes.

By: Shaune Stauffer Bagwell

T

he term Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIS) alone is enough to strike fear in mere mortal cat owners, and chances are if you've witnessed your male cat straining to urinate, you've experienced it. Other symptoms can include: urinating frequently, passing small amounts of urine, bloody urine, urinating outside the litter box, and excessive grooming perineal area.

A commonly observed malady mostly in male cats for over 100 years, the main challenge in diagnosing this condition is that many other inflammatory disorders in the bladder (stones, tumors, and infections) exhibit the same symptoms. If you have a young or middleaged male cat whose lab tests are negative for all other conditions, it's likely that the poor kitty is suffering from FIS. Even worse, once your cat has experienced an episode, it's likely that FIS will recur.

Glycoproteins called PSGAGs line and insulate the bladder from urinary toxins

that the kidneys have filtered from the bloodstream. If the bladder lining becomes patchy, the tissue of the bladder will be exposed directly to the urine and inflammation results. The PSGAG lining becomes patchy when the cat experiences stress or anxiety.

For years, treatment has focused solely on managing and reducing urinary crystals.

What seems to most effective, however, is reducing the stress that caused the condition in the first place.

It is important to get your cat to a vet immediately when you first notice symptoms. Don't wait, your male cat can become obstructed from the crystals and mucus that results from this condition. Once obstructed, the condition becomes life-threatening very quickly. This is an emergency! During a simple exam, your vet will be able to feel if the bladder is full or empty and can run further tests if necessary to diagnose your cat.

Stressful events that can trigger FIS

Once your vet has determined that your cat is unobstructed and other causes for his symptoms are ruled out, treatment can begin. Unfortunately, once an episode has started, not much can be done to speed healing but several things can be done to make him more comfortable and prevent recurrence.

❖

❖ ❖

❖

❖ ❖ ❖

❖

Stress among humans in the home (arguments, illness, prep for big events) Relocation to a new home Weather change, earthquake or hurricane Human or animal moving in or out of the home New furniture Switching foods Construction in or outside the home Any other major change in daily routine

Treatment and prevention

1.

Tranquilizers and Anti-Spasmodics These medicines calm the painful spasms in the urethra, they also help the urethra dilate so that urine can pass.

2.

Pain Medications FIS is extremely painful, and managing the painful symptoms during an episode is crucial to healing.

3.

Prescription Diet There are several brands of food specially for

58

www.houstonpettalk.com

management of this condition.

These foods not only help to quickly dissolve crystals once formed, but they also prevent them from reforming. Speak to your vet about the best diet for your cat.

4.

Stabilizing and Enriching the Environment Making sure your cat's surroundings are predictable is very important. Feeding the same food, providing clean litter boxes, scratching posts, toys, and providing clean bedding away from other pets. Remember environmental stress is what caused this, so peace and stability will go a long way toward prevention of future episodes.

5.

Making sure your cat has access to plenty of fresh water.

6.

7.

Changing to a primarily canned diet.

Spending adequate time with your cat playing, cuddling, and making him feel secure.

Clean Yard.

Happy Family.

$20 of Dog Waste

OFF First month Removal Service

USE CODE:

PetTalk

www.pootherescue.com

713-730-YARD

Make a Difference

By Honoring A Wonderful Life!

HONOR A LOST PET by making a tax deductible donation to the Harris County Veterinary Medical Foundation in their name.

Your gift helps provide valuable information on pet medical and humane issuesto other pet parents.

www.petandpalette.com peale@sbcglobal.net 713 467-0312

To Donate Please Visit

www.HCVMF.org Houston PetTalk Magazine

59

Tail End

AREA Dog Parks RESOURCES & TIPS

G

oing to the dog park with your pooch can be a lot fun as well as good bonding time. Maybe you’re a DOG DAD looking for something to do on Father’s Day but aren’t sure where

to go? PetTalk GoFetch can solve that problem!

Find a list of area dog parks, along with their amenities by downloading the FREE Mobile App from Google Play or Apple Store or visit the

website at www.pettalkgofetch.com. Once there, click on listings, then click the category DOG PARKS where you'll find over 40 dog parks to choose from.

Once you find the dog park

for you, remember your dog park etiquette (see inset).

Plus, be sure your dog is vaccinated, wearing ID and is also wearing parasite control medication. 2017 is proving to be a banner year for fleas!

NOT COOL: ❖

❖ ❖

❖

❖

Bringing treats to the park - it can cause dog aggression.

Avoid bringing small children.

Leaving your dog’s leash on dogs are territorial and more likely to fight if one dog is on a leash.

Bringing very young puppies - they need to be completely immunized (about 4 mths. old or older).

Bringing an aggressive dog to the park - you will have liability should something happen. Invest in a good trainer to see if the issues can be resolved. If not, stay away from parks...sorry!

❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖

❖

60

www.houstonpettalk.com

Bring waste bags and water.

Keep an eye on your dog at all times.

Have ID tags on your dog.

Understand dog behavior before you go.

Alert other owners if they do not see their dog taking a dump.

Visit often so that you and your dog can make friends.

Illustrations by Desiree Lonsway

COOL:

Houston PetTalk Magazine

61

Tail End

I FOUND A Baby Squirrel NOW WHAT?

By: Cheryl Conley | TWRC Wildlife Center | www.twrcwildlifecenter.org

I

f you find a baby squirrel, check for the following: ❖ Is it bleeding, have an open wound, or a broken bone? ❖ Is it covered in fly eggs [they look like grains of rice]? ❖ Is it cold, wet, or crying?

If the answer is YES to any of the above, the squirrel is likely injured. Bring it to us as soon as possible.

If NO, the next step is to determine its approximate age to see if you need to intervene.

Does the squirrel have a fluffed-out tail (like a bottle brush)?

Is the body longer than 6" (not including the tail)?

If the answer is YES to these questions, this is likely a juvenile squirrel. You do not need to intervene. Even at the young age of 10 to 12 weeks, the squirrel is already independent and on its own.

If NO, this is an infant squirrel. You will need to help reunite the baby with its mother.

Baby squirrels at this age must be kept warm. Heat a towel in the microwave or place uncooked rice or bird seed in a sock and warm in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Wrap the sock in a soft towel and place it with the baby in an open container like a small box or plastic container.

Place the box IN A SAFE

62

www.houstonpettalk.com

PLACE OFF THE GROUND near where you found the baby or under the tree with the nest if you know which tree it is. You can also attach the container directly to the tree but MAKE SURE IT IS SECURE. Keep children, dogs, and cats out of the area.

Observe the baby squirrel for the next six to eight hours

of daylight. Reheat the towel or rice/birdseed bag every two hours. Has the mother returned to retrieve her baby?

If YES...congratulations!

If NO, bring the box with the baby inside. Continue to keep it warm until you can bring it to us.

Remember: Do not attempt to feed the squirrel or give it water!

TWRC Wildlife Center is your resource for wildliferelated questions. They also serve as an emergency wildlife care facility should you find animals in need of help.

If you have any questions, please call 713-468-TWRC. You can also find useful information at www.twrcwildlifecenter.org.

CONSERVATION Corner As appreciative supporters of nature and wildlife, we at Houston PetTalk want to promote education and conservation of the world’s animal population. Each month we bring you information on conservation efforts that are of special interest or have some connection to Houston through the Houston Zoo or other local organizers such as the TWRC Wildlife Center. This issue, we are highlighting the zoo's efforts honor wildlife warriors. Look for other upcoming conservation stories so that you too can help save a species.

Eusebio Waiti

64

www.houstonpettalk.com

By: Lauren St. Pierre

Photos provided by the Houston Zoo

HOUSTON ZOO HONORS FOUR NEW WILDLIFE WARRIORS

Luke Maamai

T

o help save animals in the wild, the Houston Zoo’s admissions team raises funds by selling colorful animal bracelets. These funds aid a conservation hero award program, called Wildlife Warriors, that recognizes and enhances the outstanding staff employed by the

zoo’s wildlife conservation partners.

This program empowers award recipients through training and professional development experiences and increases their conservation community networks.

Recently, four new Wildlife Warriors received this prestigious award, all carefully Eddie bin Ahmad

chosen by the Zoo’s admissions team.

Eusebio Waiti, saving lions at the Niassa Carnivore Project Once a highly-experienced hunter, Eusebio now protects lions in Africa. He frequently speaks to his community about his transformation from

poacher to conservationist and his belief that wildlife holds the future for his community.

The Wildlife Warrior award will fund computer training courses for Eusebio to strengthen his skills in recording important data on wild lions.

Eddie bin Ahmad, saving orangutans at HUTAN Kinabatangan Orangutan Conservation Program Eddie started his career following wild orangutans at the Kinabatangan Orangutan Conservation Program (KOCP). Eddie’s passion for orangutan conservation led him to learn special tracking techniques which he teaches to his own GIS Unit that he started and continues to lead today.

Eddie will travel to Australia to learn the latest applications of camera trapping to monitor all the wildlife where he works in Borneo.

Luke Maamai, saving lions at Lion Guardians Luke has dedicated his life

Ali Hassan

Gabriel Massocato

to saving lions. As program manager, Luke supervises over 50 local staff that collects data and establish peaceful solutions between local people and lions.

Luke will attend a leadership seminar to strengthen his skills at empowering his staff and communities.

Ali Hassan, saving the rarest antelope in the world, the hirola antelope, at Hirola Conservation Project Ali is a passionate conservationist fighting many battles with poachers in Africa. He was raised in a family that killed wildlife to survive. As he grew older, he discovered new ways to find food and steered his family away from poaching.

Ali will get further training in wildlife monitoring, anti-poaching techniques and working with communities.

An Update From a 2016 Wildlife Warrior, Gabriel Massocato As a biologist with the Giant Armadillo and Giant Anteater Project in Brazil, Gabriel Massocato, a 2016 Wildlife Warrior recipient, has

dedicated his life to protecting wildlife. He recently completed his training funded by the program, in which he received English lessons and training from the zoo’s conservation and education departments. Gabriel had this to say of his experience as a Wildlife Warrior: “I am very grateful for the dedication and commitment of all employees of Houston Zoo and the Wildlife Warrior program. I am so inspired and strengthened by my Wildlife Warrior experience! I am so proud to be a part of the Houston Zoo’s wildlife saving work!”

The Houston Zoo is proud to honor these wildlife-saving heroes. You can support the Wildlife Warrior program by purchasing a colorful animal bracelet the next time you visit the zoo!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

65

Marketplace DOGGIE H

O

WALKS

U

S

T

O

N

Insured & Bonded,

Professional In-Home

PET SITTER & DOG WALKER Servicing Central West Houston from Memorial City to the Heights

832.229.8095 WWW.DOGGIEWALKSHOUSTON.COM CONTACT@DOGGIEWALKSHOUSTON.COM

IT’S A

DOG’S

LIFE! Look for the SHOP button on our home page plus check out our latest contests on Facebook and Twitter, and

HOUSTON PETTALK APPAREL

NOW AVAILABLE

ONLINE

read the digital version of almost every issue at www.houstonpettalk.com.

66

www.houstonpettalk.com

www.houstonpettalk.com

TURN INJURY INTO THE THRILL OF RECOVERY.

Nobody understands the type of specialty care our pets need better than Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists. Our Sports Medicine and Surgery & Orthopedics departments are designed specifically for pets of all kinds - from weekend warriors and couch potatoes to professional athletes like Ticket. With our all-star team of specialists, you can be sure the treatment your pet receives is always as good as gold.

Houston’s Veterinary Medical Center

1111 W. Loop South | Houston, TX 77027 | P 713.693.1111 | www.gcvs.com