Lowcountry Dog Magazine June/July 2009

volume 5, issue 4

magazine june/july 2009

Lucy this year’s

cover model winner

a night in the veterinary er what to do with an “ocd” pooch

our first ever

gallery of dogs all 600 contestants

contents Publisher Leah England (843) 478-0266 leah@lowcountrydog.com Guest Photographer Paul Zoeller www.paulzoeller.com Staff Photographer Ashley Smith www.lowcountryfocus.com Accounting Carrie Clark Financial Services (843) 367-9969 carriecl@comcast.net For Ad Rates Call

(843) 478-0266

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16 photo by Robbie Silver www.robbiesilver.com

Lowcountry Dog Magazine PO Box 22 Mt. Pleasant, SC 29465 www.lowcountrydog.com

june/july 2009

Subscribe to LCD at www.lowcountrydog.com/subscribe.html

This magazine is printed on 100% recycled paper. Continue the green process by recycling this copy.

Lowcountry Dog’s mission is to be the one and only local resource for dog owners regarding regional events, health and wellness information, trends, style and lifestyle choices. We also strive to be a mouthpiece to the public for various dog related non-profits and promote pet adoption and other responsible pet care practices.

Dog lovers can pick up the bi-monthly magazine for free at most area veterinarians and pet stores throughout the lowcountry, as well as numerous restaurants, coffee bars and retailers. A full distribution list is posted to the magazine’s web site, lowcountrydog.com.

Subscriptions are also available. Please call 843-478-0266 for more information.

The entire contents of this magazine are copyrighted by Lowcountry Dog Magazine with all rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue is expressly forbidden without permission of the publisher.

Lowcountry Dog Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any product, service, or vendor mentioned or pictured in this magazine in editorial or advertising space. Views expressed by authors or advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher.

love triangle 5 Congrats to Lucy and her owner Jennifer Montini. Lucy won our 2009 Cover Model Search. A mixed breed of unknown heritage, Lucy has a totally unique look. She overcame a host of illnesses when she was first adopted, but is now happy and healthy. See more of her photo-shoot at the always dogfriendly Magnolia Plantation at lowcountrydog.blogspot.com.

Find out more about Magnolia Plantation at magnoliaplantation.com.

Photography by Ashley Smith at lowcountryfocus.com.

veterinary malpractice 6 should you shave your dog? 11 veterinary er 12 native dog 16 calendar 20 health and wellness 22 Ear Infections

training 24 Canine Behavioral Disorders

adoption 26 Lowcountry Labrador Rescue

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LO V ETriangle kelly love johnson

As a lifelong cat person, no one was more surprised than I was when I brought a six-week old Pomeranian puppy home in early December last year. I fell in love with Lulu Tiny Dancer, or “Lou” (she’s too small for such a big name), as soon as I picked her up from the crate with her litter mates.

I’d considered getting a dog in the past. I have a nine-year-old Himalayan cat that doesn’t like other cats, but has always been good with friends’ dogs. For the past year or so, I’ve had Petfinder. com bookmarked on my computer and would search from time to time, but there was always a good reason to put off bringing home a little canine brother or sister for Miss Kitty: I worked a lot and was rarely home. I’m not a morning person and dogs need to be taken out. It seemed like a lot of responsibility. So I made do with checking out “puppy porn” photos online, falling in love with this dog or that one, then changing my mind.

Last year I found myself working from home again, and also found myself lacking the motivation to get out of bed in the morning. When a friend hinted (not so subtly) that a dog might be just the kick in the pants that I needed, I decided to take the leap from cat person to cat-and-dog person. I knew taking care of a puppy wouldn’t be easy and I was prepared for the work, but what I didn’t expect was the level of “sibling rivalry” that took place in the first six months.

The first night I brought Lulu home, Miss Kitty decided she’d camp out in the guest room for a few days. I decided to leave her alone and focus on potty and crate-training the puppy. Until I discovered the cat hiding in the back of the puppy’s crate—she’d made a nest out of the newspaper and if Lou set a foot inside of the crate, the cat hissed and swatted at her. Miss Kitty had pulled an Alpha cat and crate training went out the window.

My usually independent I-don’t-care-if-you’re-here-or-not-aslong-as-you-feed-me cat turned into a needy, disgruntled, neurotic feline that followed me around the house, circled my feet in the kitchen, and yowled in the bathroom at 2am for me to turn the faucet on so she could drink from it.

On top of my suddenly-needy cat, I had a puppy who peed joyously all over the house (two area rugs ruined), who was the

size of a hamster and had to be lifted onto whatever piece of furniture I occupied (otherwise subjecting me to sharp puppyteeth ankle bites), and who had to be in the same room with me at all times. There was also the matter of the puppy sleeping on the pillow next to mine—the same space formerly occupied by Miss Kitty. One night during the first week, I woke up in the middle of the night to discover the cat sitting on the bed staring at the sleeping puppy malevolently (at least, it looked that way in the dark).

I expected it to take some time. Lou was a needy little ball of fur who wanted nothing more than to maul the cat like a chew toy.

She chased Miss Kitty around the house and whimpered piteously when the cat was out of reach. She desperately wanted the cat to love her, the cat wanted my love and attention and was possibly planning an elaborate scheme to make the puppy go bye-bye, and I was caught in the middle.

Once Lou discovered that the cat’s food was in the kitchen (her bowls were in the dining room), I had to get creative and create another cat-eating area on a trunk in the dining room that she couldn’t reach. I was also trying to get Puppy Pee Freely on a regular feeding schedule so I’d be able to anticipate her outside potty needs, which is about the same time the cat decided she needed to eat BEFORE the puppy in the morning, otherwise she’d leave a “present” (hairball or worse) in one of my shoes or on the pillow the puppy sleeps on. She also decided she was going to drink from the dog’s water bowl and ignore her own. And, even though she hasn’t put a claw to furniture since she was a kitten, she also began using the dog’s bed in the living room as a scratching post.

I’ve been working on our relationship(s). I’ve tried to give the cat more attention, realized that the puppy is happy whether she gets her food first or second, and have had to intervene once or twice when Miss Kitty intentionally stalks Lou. And now that I know no-one’s going to get hurt, our little love triangle isn’t such a bad place to be. The cat will eventually stop torturing the puppy.

The puppy will eventually be a dog and calm down a bit. And I can now envision the day when we’re all cuddled up on the couch together, no hissing, no barking, just love.

Kelly Love Johnson is a freelance writer, editor, and cat- and dog-mom living in Charleston, SC. Read more of her work at www.kellylovejohnson.com.

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news briefs Salty Dog Photos Needed The Moultrie News is looking for photos of Salty Dogs to publish as part of The Water Log. If you have a photo of your dog enjoying the Charleston area beaches and water send it to TWI@moultirenews.com for possible publication. You may also submit a photo in memoriam.

I Bark for Parks!

Does your pooch have a favorite park? Then the Charleston Parks Conservancy and Lowcountry Dog want to hear about it!

The two have teamed up for the I Bark for Parks! contest, where Charlestonians are invited to share a special story or memory about their favorite canine and one of Charleston’s parks. The winning entry will be published in the August/September issue of Lowcountry Dog along with a professional photo of the winner and his or her dog.

To enter, sign up to be a Park Angel with the Charleston Parks Conservancy at ParkAngels.org and then upload your story under the specific park at www.parkangels. org/park_wikis. Or email your story to pwentz@charlestonparksconservancy.org.

Entries accepted until June 30.

For more information, visit CharlestonParksConservancy.org and click on Programs.

2009 Model Contest Photos Are Throughout This Issue and Are Available for Purchase As you read this issue of LCD we hope you enjoy the gallery of all 600 contestants in the 2009 Model Contest. Photos of your contestant are still available for purchase through Lowcountry Focus’ Photography at www.shutterfly.com/pro/LowcountryFocus/ LCDMODEL. Photos are available as “covers,” as well as without the LCD cover material. Prints are as low as $2.99!

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A Furry Affair Art Gala Returns More than 12,500 animals will be the beneficiaries of Charleston Animal Society’s annual A Furry Affair Art Gala. Held this year on June 20th at the recently renovated Memminger Auditorium, attendees will bid on juried, original art donated by local artists and celebrities. Last year $40,000 was raised to assist in the organization’s efforts to provide shelter, medical care, food and adoption programs for our area’s homeless, abused and neglected pets.

The event is June 20th from 6:30 to 10:30 at the Memminger Auditorium, 56 Beaufain Street, Downtown Charleston. Tickets are $75 per person. To purchase tickets call Allison at 843.329.1546 or visit the shelter at 2455 Remount Road. Tickets also available at Dolittle’s, Three Dog Bakery, and My Three Dogs. ( See their ads in this magazine for addresses.) Learn more at www.charlestonanimalsociety.org.

New Thrift Store Benefits Needy Animals The Share the Love SPCA Thrift store has opened at 402 Old Trolley Road in Summerville (next to Patterson Printing) and is open Thursday - Saturday, 10am - 4pm.

Donations of household items (no room for clothes) are accepted and the store is also a drop off point for those wanting to donate food, litter and old towels and blankets for the shelter.

All proceeds benefit the Frances R. Willis SPCA. Fort Johnson Middle School Students Collect 1,600 Items for Pet Helpers With the economy tanking and people starting to cut corners where they can, dogs and cats are rapidly becoming the first on the list to go. The number one reason for animal intakes at Pet Helpers right now is owner surrender.

Erica Ciucci, a school counselor at Fort Johnson Middle School, heard this story and decided to take matters into her own hands…and her student’s hands too. Ciucci started a competition between classrooms for the most items collected for Pet Helpers through the month of March. The class who was able to collect the most items received a pizza party and a trip to a Riverdogs game.

With a pizza party and free trip to a ball game on the line, the competition was fierce. Over 530 students took part in the contest and over 1,600 items were collected.

Mr. Peterson’s 7th grade homeroom took first place by collecting 780 items.

“It is so refreshing in this economy to see all the items these students were able to collect,” stated Suzanne Carr, Pet Helpers Executive Director. “With our animal intakes rising, these items are needed now more than ever.”

Because 1,600 items were raised, a truck was not big enough to transfer the items to Pet Helpers. So Ciucci, nine Fort Johnson Middle School students and a yellow bus dropped off all the items.

“We are able to thank the students in person and let them see how very important their donations are in our pet’s daily lives,” stated Emily Laurie, Public Relations and Events Coordinator for Pet Helpers. “Our hopes are that more schools, community organizations and churches will be inspired by the students at Fort Johnson Middle School and hold a ‘benefit contest’ of their own.”

Consider throwing a fund raiser to benefit Pet Helpers. If you or your organization would like to help raise funds and/or items for the hundreds of adoptable animals that need care, please contact Emily Laurie at 843-795-1110 ext 16 or elaurie@pethelpers. org.

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Veterinary Malpractice

danille young

The earliest history we have of Mack, a

Cairn terrier, is that he was found abandoned in a crate placed unceremoniously in the woods. He spent several months being rehabilitated in a foster home before he was deemed “adoptable.” But alas, the perseverance of the animal spirit never ceases to amaze and Mack soon settled in to a life wholeheartedly devoted to stalking the mailman and destroying his toys.

Cairns are little dogs with big personalities; Mack is both a soldier patrolling the yard from intruding squirrels and a loveable pup content to snuggle under the covers.

While his emotional baggage was soon loved away, Mack also arrived with a urinary tract infection for which he was prescribed antibiotics. Since then he has been treated for several urinary tract infections, with antibiotics as standard treatment. In addition, he’s seen his veterinarian for bloody stool 3 times during the last two years and, again, the vet prescribed antibiotics and sent him on his way. Despite a complete medical record, Mack endured continued treatment without further investigation into an underlying cause. Finally, in January, an uncharacteristic bite sent his guardian to a dog-trainer who insisted that this wasn’t behavioral and sent them to different vet.

A rectal exam and x-ray revealed a mass on his colon; Mack was diagnosed with cancer and given 3-6 months.

It is important to remember that the majority of veterinarians are professional, conscientious care-givers committed to the protection of animal health and the relief of animal suffering. In rare circumstances, there are cases when

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veterinarians fail to meet their oath and are negligent in their care. In our case, Mack’s story could be a case of veterinary negligence, maybe a reflection of treating symptoms while ignoring causes. In exploring their options, Mack’s guardian found unanswered questions and confusion about what you can do if a pet has been negligently misdiagnosed, or if a veterinarian intentionally injured or killed an animal. Here’s what we found:

Mack, whose condition was misdiagnosed.

Prevention is paramount. Just like people, animals need a healthy diet and exercise. Remember that while your veterinarian is one of your pet’s best advocates, you are ultimately responsible for your pet’s health and need to be involved with their care. Most veterinarians are happy to talk with you about diet and preventative strategies but if they’re not, trust your instincts and go elsewhere.

Veterinarians are experts in animal health but we know our pet’s personality better than anyone; uncharacteristic behavior like aggression or lethargy could indicate something deeper so ask questions and keep records. If something happens and you suspect that your veterinarian has been negligent or abusive either in diagnosis or treatment immediately seek a second opinion. If this opinion supports

veterinary malpractice, you have a couple different options.

First, send a complaint to the South Carolina Veterinary licensing board, located in Columbia. This is a state agency responsible for the investigation of allegations against veterinarians practicing in S.C. Be sure that your complaint is clear and concise, and follow up to ensure that it was received and an investigation has been initiated. In addition, send a complaint to the veterinary medical association in the county where your vet practices; any clinic in the area can provide this information.

When you contact the board, ask for a record of prior disciplinary data, and then get involved.

Don’t let the bureaucratic process dissuade you. In the event that your veterinarian is guilty of gross negligence or abuse, your pet is probably not the only victim. Ask around, talk to people at the local dog park, other area veterinary clinics, or boutique dog stores - these are places where people like to chat about their pets so you never know what information may be gleaned. (For information on this please contact Marcia Rosenberg at marcia@marciarosenberg.com.

Ms. Rosenberg has successfully advocated for change regarding the disciplinary process for veterinarians in South Carolina).

If you decide to pursue legal remedy, hire a lawyer to pursue either negotiating a settlement or filing a suit. The biggest obstacle with this approach is that pets are categorized as property under the law.

Thus, even if you win, most courts still only award the cost of the pet or the cost of replacing the animal with another (in

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Lowcountrydog

Should you shave your dog?

by Suzanne Kovelesk

the case of Mack, a shelter dog, this could be as low as the adoption fee). Because of this, many lawyers are unwilling or unable to take veterinary malpractice cases on a contingency basis, and it is likely you will you spend more on your legal fees than you will recover. Despite this, courts are beginning to recognize that pets aren’t merely easily replaced property. There is a movement towards allowing recovery for the “reasonable sentimental value” of the pet. This could potentially increase the award from hundreds to thousands. This movement towards higher recovery will raise the profile of animals in our courts as well as create more accountability within the veterinary field.

If you cannot afford to work with an attorney, you can represent yourself in small claims court. If you win, your recovery will be limited to your out-ofpocket expenses or medical costs resulting from your veterinarian’s malpractice, not for the sentimental value of your pet.

Even in small claims court, you will be required to provide the court with expert testimony regarding your pet’s condition and the veterinarian’s malpractice. While I appreciate the value in pursuing legal remedies in valid cases, it won’t bring your pet back and until the courts catch-up with social sentiment it remains an incredible burden for pet guardians who have been harmed by their veterinarian’s negligence or abuse.

For now, almost two months into our 3-6 months doomsday deadline, Mack is doing well, although each day is different.

A prayer is sent every morning for the squirrels in the backyard, he is hugged more often, given more toys, and hope, hope, hope, hope….

Summer is here and along with it comes hot weather and people walking into my grooming shop asking me to shave their double-coated dogs. Doublecoated dogs have hair that grows to a certain length, stops, and has an undercoat. Ezamples are the Husky, Golden Retriever, Lab, Samoyed and Pomeranian. Although there are some groomers who are fine with this request, I do my best to talk dog owners out of it.

People think because their dog is panting, that it must be too hot, and therefore needs to be shaved. Dogs pant because that’s how they perspire. Do desert dwellers wear shorts and tank tops, or long robes to protect themselves from the sun and heat? A dog’s coat was put there as protection from the UV rays of the sun. It also acts as insulation from the heat.

People think their dog will shed less if it is shaved. Wrong again! Your dog will shed the same quantity, only the hairs will be shorter. When a double-coated dog gets shaved, it interrupts the natural shedding process.

What you’re doing is cutting into the guard hairs in the top coat, possibly damaging them, and making the undercoat grow uninhibited, because the undercoat grows more quickly than the top coat.

I often hear, “It will grow back.” Sometimes that’s true. However, with an older dog, it’s less likely the guard coat will grow back, and whatever undercoat regrows will give the dog a patchy, almost mangy appearance.

Instead of shaving, dogs with double coats need to be kept thoroughly brushed out. Matted coats, or coats with packed-in dead undercoat will restrict airflow to your dog’s skin, sometimes causing dandruff or hot spots.

There are certain circumstances when shaving is necessary, such as when a dog is so matted that it can’t be safely and humanely brushed out, which usually only happens with dogs who have been previously shaved, or dogs who have been seriously neglected.

If I am lucky enough to convince a client not to shave their dog, I usually suggest that they bring him in 4 times a year (at every change of season) at minimum. If money is an issue, and it is with most people these days, I tell them about what kind of de-shedding tool to buy, and I’m happy to show them how to use it. Taking your dog outside and brushing him yourself in between professional groomings, will keep your dog happy, healthy, and your house less hairy.

The people that I have been able to convince not to shave their dogs have given me very positive feedback. They love the natural way their dogs look, and they take my advice as to how often to bring them back in.

Suzanne Kovelesk moved to Charleston in September 2007 from New York where she managed a 200 dog capacity boarding kennel. Prior to that she was a full time dog groomer for 20 years. She is currently the groomer at the West Ashley Superpetz.

Questions or comments may be directed to the Charleston School of Law Student Animal Legal Defense Fund at csolsaldf@gmail.com.

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Vet technician Felicia King inserts an IV into the leg of Holly Bell, a 15-year old Dachshund.

Holly Bell was hit by a car.

V ETER INARY critical care for lowcountry pets & wildlife photography & text

by Paul Zoeller in loving memory of Holly Bell

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Felicia King rushes through the door carrying Holly Bell, a 15-year old dachshund, after she was hit by a car. Holly Bell, still in shock, lies there as King, a veterinary technician, checks vitals and shaves a leg to administer an IV needle. Visible lacerations can be seen as Dr. Jeremy Libby starts his examination. First checking the eyes and ears, he turns his attention to the lacerations and the abdomen for internal injuries.

After the examination he explains--with the amount of injuries and the age of the dog, it is in the dog’s best interest to be put to sleep. Even if Holly Bell survived, she may never fully recover he said. A quick report is written including the prognosis and recommendation from Dr. Jeremy Libby.

Distraught and crying, Holly Bell’s owner agrees and requests a couple of minutes alone with her.

A sad moment for Dr. Libby and his staff but they continue on because the room is filling with patients in need at the Veterinary Emergency Care in North Charleston.

The animal ER is like most veterinary hospitals except it fills a large void left by others. The hospital opens at 6 p.m. and stays open all night, one of only two in the Lowcountry of its kind.

The concept of an after-hours emergency veterinary clinic started many years ago in the Charleston area. Realizing emergencies happen after hours or on the

Stella, a lab mix, is fitted for a collar after getting stitches.

Baby Boy, a 1-month old kitten, is examined for head injuries.

Vet Tech Catherine Goode fills in the patient board.

weekends and holidays, a group of area vets collaborated on an ER-style clinic. About 12 years ago 20-30 vets started the clinics and rotated responsibilities until it evolved into a fulltime clinic.

Dr. Libby said it is common practice to have ER care for pets as veterinary medicine has progressed in recent decades.

The clinic serves two purposes he said, treating after-hour emergencies and monitoring critical care patients for surgeons over night.

A late-night clinic is also the time for the strangest of pets as well. The ER sees all kinds of cases every night and weekend.

From baby possums and squirrels to birds, snakes and hedgehogs. Sometimes exotic pets are brought in and other times wildlife like a small deer are brought in by Animal Control.

“You name it, if its got four legs and its not a horse, we see it here.” Catherine Goode, veterinary technician said.

The patients are not the only unusual part of veterinary care in the Lowcountry according to Dr. Libby who practiced in Charlotte, NC before moving to the Charleston area.

“I thought I had seen everything but then I moved down here and I see snake bites, alligator bites or boar hog tusking injuries.” he said.

On this particular night Goode answers a call from a woman who says a baby deer is trapped in her backyard and she found it curled up next to her dog. Since it was late, she called the clinic looking for assistance. After a few calls, Goode is able to connect the woman with the right agency and emergency is adverted.

Soon after the call, a duck is admitted after being found on the side of the road. Unhappy and probably scared, the duck keeps on biting the arm of Sharon Reynolds, vet tech, as she carries it to the examination table. A quick exam and a couple of X-rays show nothing is broken so Dr. Libby prescribes pain medication and treatment of external wounds. If the duck recovers, Dr. Libby says, they will place it with someone who can care for it and nurse it back to health.

Between the interesting calls and odd cases, the staff is busy examining dogs and cats for various symptoms. Some patients are strays, some are owner admitted while others have been left overnight for observation like Precious Givens, 1-year old cat with a tracheotomy tube in its neck. The cat spends most of the night in an oxygen cage until Reynolds glances into the cage.

The cat had stopped breathing and had gone limp. Quickly, Precious Givens is rushed to a table so the tube can be removed and oxygen administered until Dr. Libby can clear obstructions from the tube. Danger adverted, the cat had dried mucous lodged in the breathing tube.

Some nights are crazier than others, Dr. Libby said.

Sometimes, patients come in droves whereas other nights they trickle in. Comparing the clinic to a human ER, Dr. Libby says there is one large difference: “This place is like a zoo.”

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Joy, a Guinea Pig with a broken leg, gets anesthesia.

Joy is carried back to his cage after a broken leg is set and wrapped.

Precious Givens, a 1-year old cat, sits in an oxygen cage for the night after being given a tracheotomy.

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Clockwise: Dr. Jeremy Libby examines a duck for any broken bones after it was found on the side of the road.

Charlie, a Cocker Spaniel, is examined by Dr. Jeremy Libby for back pains.

Dr. Libby examines the X-ray of an injured animal, looking for broken bones.

Vet Tech Catherine Goode runs a scanner over a stray cat looking for a pet locator in hopes of finding its owners.

Vet tech Sharon Reynolds sits with Charlie, a cocker spaniel, while they wait for his owner to finish filling out paper work.

Chocolate, a mixed breed, has a drain tube removed from a previous surgery.

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Vet technician Felicia King shaves the leg of Holly Bell, a 15-year old Dachshund, so an IV can be inserted.

bonita

A lone paw sticks out of a cage during recovery.

Pinky, a chihuahua mix, checks in.

Paul Zoeller, a freelance writer/photographer, began his career in Texas as an award-winning photojournalist. Recently departing the Lone Star State, he now resides in Summerville with his family. You can see more of Zoeller’s work at paulzoeller.com.

See additional photos from Paul’s night in the animal ER on the LCD blog at www.lowcountrydog.blogspot.com.

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Special thanks to the entire staff at the North Charleston Veterinary Emergency Clinic as well as to the owners of the very special animals whose stories were presented here.

You can visit the Veterinary Emergency Care clinics at 3163 W Montague Ave, North Charleston, SC 29418 (843) 744-3372 or 930 Pine Hollow Rd Mt Pleasant, SC 29464 (843) 216-7554.

Native Dog laura reiman

mine the breed of a dog, preliminary DNA has shown Carolina Dogs, no matter where they are found, have similar patterns. The breed has also exhibited unique behaviors.

Females often dig snout pits, or holes in the ground, between September and December. Both sexes have also been found to compulsively cover their feces.

While everything is purely conjecture at this point, it is difficult not to embrace this wild dog. There is an uncanny resemblance to the Australian Dingo, and one could venture to call behavioral patterns such as regurgitation and pack hunting, primitive.

Photo by Juanita Oser

I’m not entirely convinced my dog, a rescue from Hilton Head, S.C., doesn’t have some Carolina Dog in him. Signs – fishhook tail arcing up and over his back, a fox-like face, ginger red color and a knack for hunting – point to yes, which could mean he is very special.

The Carolina Dog is often called a feral animal; one that went through an association with humans then moved back to the wild to survive on its own. Discovered almost 30 years ago by Dr. I. Lehr Brisbin on the Savannah River Site, 300 square miles of fence-protected habitat, the dog is thought to be reminiscent of the first to cross the Bering Strait over 14,000 years ago.

The dogs can be found wandering down the median strips of I-20, in rural areas like Lowcountry plantations and military bases and filtering in and out of shelters.

There are few (I’ve counted four) breeders specializing in the Carolina Dog, but the breed is growing in popularity.

Just ask Charles Ginetto, a Carolina Dog enthusiast and owner. Ginetto’s voice is filled with warmth as he talks about his 1-year-old Carolina Dog, Duke. He describes the dog as a fast learner and flirtatious. This is apparent when Duke meets a small crowd and ventures from hand to hand, lapping up the attention. Duke came from Brisbin’s pack, and Ginetto plans on breeding him to help maintain the bloodline.

Carolina Dogs are recognized by the American Rare Breed Association and the United Kennel Club, but Brisbin doesn’t see registration with the American Kennel Club happening soon. Brisbin is in possession of the studbook, and likes to keep it open. If registered, he would no longer be able to catch and breed any dog he finds in the wild.

While there isn’t an actual test to deter-

Tucker is a classic looking Carolina Dog, also known as the American Dingo.

After an Audubon society meeting where Dr. Brisbin spoke recently, I had a chance to sit down and ask him a bit about the breed he has pioneered.

What has been the response to your research and findings?

A lot of scientists think this is all smoke and mirrors because there is nothing published yet. Sure the History Channel and the Smithsonian have given the dog publicity, but scientists want peer-reviewed data.

What are you concentrating on now?

The data. Graphs on snout-pit digging, poop covering and the unique heat cycles.

The justification of the breed is that their behavior confirms what they look like.

How are the dog’s inherent traits changing as you domesticate them?

Well, they have to be changing don’t

they? You want to keep these traits. That’s what they’re all about. That’s why I keep going back to find more wild dogs, which stops the domestication from changing their traits too much. Some people want show dogs, we want these survival skills.

I have found their ears start dropping in capture, I don’t know why.

Is the changing environment having an effect on the wild Carolina Dogs?

The Carolina Dog depends on an undisturbed habitat. Their fate is tied to big pieces of land where man is excluded. As man fragments the habitat, it increases chances of hybridization.

Are there any common health concerns with the dog?

They are generally healthy and longlived. The hips look OK. It isn’t true they are immune to heartworms.

Because they are a wild breed, and regurgitation for young is common, is there a special diet?

I call it the STP diet – scrape the plate.

For 14,000 years they’ve been eating leftover garbage, so any food is fine.

What should we do if we think we have a Carolina Dog? Call me. And don’t neuter it! Treasure the dog as a piece of history and enjoy the quirks.

Would you recommend the Carolina Dog as a pet?

I can’t think of a con. They are the prototypic dog that won’t be a problem if you get it as a puppy. Wild dogs have some problems. This dog will be whatever you want it to be. It’s the ‘good ole dog.’

See more Carolina Dog photos on the LCD Dog Blog at lowcountrydog.blogspot.com.

Learn about the breed on the Carolina Dog Association website at carolinadogs.org. If you think you have a Carolina Dog contact Mr. Ginetto at CGinettoCPA@aol.com.

happy hounds

monkey

bud & grace wooby

email photos of your happy hound to leah@lowcountrydog.com. all breeds and mixed breeds accepted.

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chilly Lowcountrydog

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upcoming events june 4th 6pm-9pm body, mind & spirit for dogs & their people at fetch. Dog tarot card reading and massages for dogs and people! Unique items for sale, festive food and drink, too!

1990 Ashley River Road, West Ashley. Free Admittance. More information found at www.wildheirlabradorrescue.org.

june 4th 7pm-9pm do old dogs dream book signing. Harold J.

Fetch Doggy Day Care, 1990 Ashley River Rd. www.wildheirlabradorrescue.org.

“Dog Daze” will be giving away goodies.

Benefits Charleston Animal Society.

june 13th 11am-1pm west ashley chick-fil-a bark for biscuits.

june 24th 5pm-8pm dog tales with golden tails at dog and duck belle hall. Join Low Country Golden

Chicken biscuit proceeds benefit Noble Ones Bully Breed Rescue. More info at www.NOBBR.org.

june 13th 10:30am-3pm wild heir lab rescue meet & greet. Mt.

july 10th 6pm-8pm shih tzu & furbabies rescue yappy hour.

Pleasant Pet Smart on Long Point Rd. For more information please visit the website, www.wildheirlabradorrescue.org.

Red’s Ice House on Shem Creek, Mt. P.

Creel, Jr., Author of “Do Old Dogs Dream,” will be at Pet Helpers for a book signing and reception. 1447 Folly Road. Proceeds benefit Pet Helper’s senior canines. More info at www.pethelpers.org.

june 13th 9am-4pm charleston koi pond show. Benefits Charleston

june 6th 8am leslie mccravy 5k run to benefit pet helpers. No

Animal Society. $10 per adult children 12 & under FREE. For more info contact 8646624 or www.charlestonshowakoiclub.org.

pets due to the hot weather. Start and finish by the Edwin S. Taylor Fishing Pier, Folly Beach. $30.00. Top 3 overall M/F and top 3 M/F age groups. More information at www.pethelpers.org

june 5th & 6th 11am-3pm noble ones bully breed rescue at air force picnic. Summertime food, music, rides and games for the kids as well as rescue booths. Active duty and reserve military, along with retirees and civilian employees and all their family members. www.NOBBR.org.

june 6th 10am-1pm low country golden retriever rescue meet & greet. PetSmart in West Ashley. Learn more at www.lcgrr.org.

june 6th 10am wag factory grand opening celebration. Register for daycare package give-a-ways! 832 Folly Rd. For more info visit www.wagfactory.com.

june 6th 11am-2pm wild heir lab rescue dog wash and hot dog cook out. $15 dog wash/hot dog & soda.

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Lowcountrydog

Retriever Rescue on the patio. Please visit www.lcgrr.org or call 571 - 7177.

june 14th 12pm-4pm my three dogs 2 year anniversary celebration.

Great food, music, contests, give-a-ways, local rescue groups and professional photography sessions. 1518 Hwy 17 No., Mt Pleasant. www.mythreedogs.com.

june 19th 5pm-8pm wild heir lab rescue happy hour. Lost Dog Café.

106 West Huron St., Folly Beach. For more details, www.wildheirlabradorrescue.org.

june 20th 6:30pm-10:30pm a furry affair gala and art auction.

Memminger Auditorium, 56 Beaufain St., Downtown Charleston. $75 per person. To purchase tickets Call Allison at 843.329.1546 or visit the shelter at 2455 Remount Rd. www.charlestonanimalsociety.org.

june 20th 11am-2pm noble ones bully breed rescue meet & greet. All Is Well 440-A Old Trolley Rd. Summerville. Please call 843-871-7977 for more info or visit www.NOBBR.org.

june 21st 5pm riverdogs dog days.

july 11th 10am-1pm low country golden retriever rescue meet & greet. PetSmart in West Ashley. 571 - 7177 or visit our website, www.lcgrr.org.

july 11th 10:30am-3pm wild heir lab rescue meet & greet. Mt Pleasant Pet Smart Long Point Road, Mt. Pleasant. For more details please visit, www.wildheirlabradorrescue.org.

july 11th 11am-1pm west ashley chick-fil-a bark for biscuits.

Chicken biscuit proceeds benefit Noble Ones Bully Breed Rescue. More info at www.NOBBR.org.

july 11th 11am-2:00pm wild heir lab rescue meet & greet. James Island All is Well, 1409 Folly Rd. For more details, www.wildheirlabradorrescue.org.

july 17th 7pm -11pm 2nd annual bow wow luau. The Landing on Shem Creek. $20 in advance/$25 at the door.

Hosted by Planet Bark to benefit Wild Heir Labrador Rescue.

Questions? Comments?

Call 843-478-0266 Want to submit event information?

Visit www.lowcountrydog.com and click on Contact Us. We will do our best in include your event as space allows. Our online calendar lists all events in full.

Island food, drink and entertainment! www.wildheirlabradorrescue.org.

july 18th 11am-2pm noble ones bully breed rescue meet & greet. Summerville All Is Well 440-A Old Trolley Road in Summerville. Please call 843-871-7977 for more info or visit www.NOBBR.org.

july 22nd 5pm -8pm doggy dining & drinks. Join The Low Country Golden Retriever Rescue at The Dog and Duck in Belle Hall. Call 571 - 7177 or visit www.lcgrr.org.

Tha t’s mas our co Luc t, y!

july 25th 11am-2pm wild heir lab rescue meet & greet. West Ashley All is Well 3417 Shelby Ray Court.

More information, can be found online at www.wildheirlabradorrescue.org.

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Lowcountrydog

21

health & wellness Angel Oaks, Spanish moss, blooming plants, and warm humid air lend to the majestic beauty of the Low Country.

But this beautiful climate also creates molds, yeast, fleas, and pollen that act as allergens for many people and dogs. With the beautiful spring weather, we start seeing more dogs with itchy skin and ears at the The Animal Hospital. The symptoms of an ear infection include: redness, discharge, odor, scratching the ears, and shaking the head. Ear problems can be very frustrating to diagnose and treat in dogs because they are often closely related to an underlying allergy.

Q: What causes ear infections?

A: Because the ears are lined with skin, ear problems are really a special type of skin disease. Allergic skin reactions PLUS humidity in the ear canal leads to secondary infections. The Journal of Veterinary Dermatology recently published a study regarding the predisposing factors for ear infections in dogs. Allergies of the skin were the most common primary cause of ear infections. Dogs with ears that hang, such as Basset hounds and Cocker Spaniels, are predisposed to ear problem. Other factors include endocrine diseases that affect the immune system like hypothyroidism. Dogs can suffer from ear mites, but parasites only accounted for 13% of all ear problems and usually only affect puppies.

Q: If my dog has allergies, can I just give him a Benadryl?

A: The allergy opens the door to secondary infections that require more specific short-term treatments. When the skin is red and inflamed from an allergy,

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Lowcountrydog

EAR

INFECTIONS

the stressed immune system allows the bacteria and yeast that are normally present in small numbers to grow out of control creating a secondary infection.

Veterinary Dermatology listed yeast as the most common cause of secondary infections. At least one third of our patients have a mixed population of yeast and bacteria. This is why it is so important for your veterinarian to examine the ears at each visit and to perform an ear cytology with each new infection.

Veterinarians routinely prescribe a medication that has both anti-yeast and anti-bacterial medications because of the prevalence of mixed infections. However, once we begin to see rod shaped bacteria creep into the cytology, or if there is a chronic ear infection, a broken ear drum, or a collapsing ear canal, more aggressive care is needed.

Q: Can I prevent ear infections?

A: YES! The most important thing you can do to prevent ear infections is to prevent allergies. For starters, dogs need to stay on a veterinarian approved, prescription flea prevention (Frontline, Comfortis, or Advantage) every single month. Flea allergies are the most common allergy in our area, and dogs can suffer from flea allergies even when you are not seeing any fleas! Next, many dogs also have a food allergy. Do not allow your dog to eat people food. Feed a high quality or a prescription hypoallergenic diet.

Every dog has different diet sensitivities and it can take time and patience to find a diet that will work with your dog.

Never change a diet abruptly. Gradually mix the old and new food together for several weeks to prevent stomach upset.

danielle cain, DVM

Allow each new diet at least two months before giving up on the food. Remember that even small amounts of treats, people food, bones, and beef flavored medications like heartworm chewables can skew the diet’s effectiveness. Finally, we must control atopic allergies to grass and pollen in the air. Since we can’t keep our dogs in a bubble, some other options are: Prednisone, Atopica, and allergy testing for immunotherapy injections.

One more thing! Any dog that has wet ear canals should have the ears cleaned with a drying and ceruminolytic (fancy vet word meaning “breaks up the wax”) ear cleanser after a bath or a swim. Do not use Alcohol, Vinegar, Olive Oil, or any other “home remedy,” because they can cause more harm than good.

Q: My dog’s ear flap is all puffy.

A: He or she probably has a hematoma.

Some dogs that are suffering from an ear infection shake their head so much that they will burst the blood vessels in the flap, which leads to a large blood blister.

We usually have to intervene surgically or the ears will become scarred and thickened over time, and it is uncomfortable to your dog too.

Q: My dog was shaking his ears, and now he is falling over!

A: Your dog might have a middle ear infection in addition to an outer ear infection. A veterinarian should examine him as soon as possible. These patients often need injectable medications, especially if they are nauseated and dizzy.

When it comes to ear infections, an ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure. Make sure to keep all

dogs and cats in the household on flea prevention every month. Feed a good quality diet, and clean the ears regularly (2x/week and after baths/swims) with a vet-approved ear cleaner. If you still have to battle the occasional flare-up, make sure to give the full course of all prescribed mediations. Always keep recommended recheck examinations with your vet after prescriptions run out, as some infections need long-term treatments.

Reference: Aetiology of Canine Otitis Externa: A retrospective study of 100 cases.

Saridomichelakis MN, Farmakit R, Leontides LS, Koutinast AF. VET DERMATOL 18:341-347, 2007.

Danielle Cain, DVM is the lead veterinarian at The Animal Hospital in North Charleston, www.theanimalhospital.net, 843-552-8278.

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23

training

canine behavioral disorders: Phobias & OCD

By Susan Marett

In the last issue we discussed one of the most common and most serious of canine behavioral disorders, Separation Anxiety.

In this issue, we’ll be discussing other behavioral issues that dog owners may face.

Dogs, just like humans, experience fear.

Fear is apprehension of “the presence or proximity of an object, individual, social situation, or class of the above” as defined

by Karen Overall, M.A., V.M.D., Ph.D., in her book Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Small Animals. Fear is not abnormal, but rather is a normal behavior and can help a dog to respond appropriately when in danger. Fear can therefore be experienced during a new situation. New situations can cause apprehension until a dog acclimates to them. This fear can be diminished by gradual exposure and counter conditioning.

A phobia, on the other hand, is an extreme reaction that may not change with gradual exposure. The Webster Dictionary defines phobia as “an exaggerated [and] usually inexplicable and illogical fear of a particular object, class of objects, or situation.” Phobias can be the cause of panic, catatonia, and immense anxiety in a dog – and can develop rapidly, or even immediately after a frightening event. Sometimes, however, a phobia can manifest itself without trauma or a scary event. Dogs do have inexplicable and illogical fears. These fears may be due or exacerbated by a dog’s genetic predispositions and breed or personality traits.

One of the most common phobias found in the dog world is thunder or storm phobia. Some of the behaviors associated

with this include: hiding, escape response, trembling, drooling, vocalizing, selfmutilation, inappropriate elimination, and property damage. Other related phobias include fear of vacuum cleaners, mechanical noises such as lawn mowers, fireworks, and even windshield wipers.

By playing cds of thunder and storm noises, and gradually turning up the volume, it may be possible to relieve some of a dog’s distress during storms. It is also important to reward calmer behavior during these times. Some owners have had good results with the Anxiety Wrap, or similar products. Wrapping the dog’s body can sometimes have a calming effect.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorders are other serious behavioral issues that dog owners may face. Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD) include repetitive tailchasing, shadow or light chasing, flysnapping or air snapping, circling or spinning, pacing, excessive licking, Acral Lick Dermatitis, flank sucking, freezing, and pica (the eating of inedible things).

We can define OCD as recurrent behaviors that are excessive because of the length of time, the frequency, and the intensity at which they are performed. They are also behaviors that are out of context. For example, snapping at flies when there are none present.

It is important to note also that these behaviors may manifest themselves more often in times of stress or arousal. The dog may be in a situation where he or she feels conflicted or anxious and the disorder becomes a coping mechanism.

As with phobias, certain breeds seem to have a predisposition to certain obsessive behaviors. Flank sucking is

often associated with Dobermans. Flank sucking occurs when a dog takes a section of his or her flank in mouth and holds the position. Tail chasing seems to occur more often in herding breeds, as does shadow chasing.

As more information is gathered, it has become more and more apparent that these behaviors can be passed through inbreeding. It is important for dog breeders to avoid inbreeding, and to avoid using any dog for breeding who displays abnormal and obsessive tendencies. A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (Vol. 221, No. 10), pointed to inbreeding as a potential cause of OCD. The study also stated that “it is important to realize that the development of specific animal breeds and the practice of inbreeding within those breeds suggest that the prevalence of OCD in dogs could be higher than that reported for humans.”

When a dog is diagnosed with OCD, a full medical exam is extremely important.

Acral Lick Dermatitis (ALD), for example, occurs when a dog licks at a particular site on its body repeatedly. This can cause severe damage. ALD can be caused by boredom, stress, or even a predisposition to the behavior. But ALD can also be caused by arthritis, fracture, allergies, and skin disorders.

Fly-snapping is another disorder that is classified as OCD, but is also thought by some veterinarians to be related to epilepsy, seizure disorder, or as stemming from a neurological problem.

After ruling out medical causes, behavioral modification can be used to reduce and sometimes even eliminate

the incidence of OCD. It is extremely important to anticipate the behavior’s occurrence -- as it can be interrupted much more easily at the beginning – rather than attempting to interrupt when it is fullblown. It is also important not to simply restrain or restrict the dog from engaging in the behavior. Restriction doesn’t deal with the cause of the problem and may simply cause the dog to engage in another type of OCD. Inconsistent training and punishment may also cause the problem to worsen.

Instead, the dog’s environment should be looked at closely to see if he or she has enough stimulation. Stimulation includes generous amounts of exercise, play, and attention. It also includes appropriate chew bones and toys. Obedience training may also be helpful because it provides mental exercise and improves the bond between owner and dog.

When the problem behavior occurs, the owner can introduce an alternative activity: playing, training, going for a walk, providing a chew toy, and etc. In milder cases, it might be possible to interrupt the behavior by the owner walking away and removing all attention. Patience and consistency will usually pay off with OCD, and reduction of these incidents means less frustration for owners and better quality of life for dogs.

If your dog is fearful or phobic in certain situations, or has been diagnosed with an obsessive compulsive disorder, consider working with your veterinarian, a veterinarian behaviorist, or an experienced dog trainer. Starting this process sooner than later is wise. Problems can worsen over time, and cause greater suffering for dogs and their humans.

Susan Marett is the owner and head trainer of Purely Positive Dog Training, a dog training business that has operated in the Lowcountry for the past thirteen years. For more information, please visit www.purelypositive.com.

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adoption page

Lowcountry Labrador Rescue Lowcountry Lab Rescue (LLR) is a 501c 3 animal welfare organization that rescues and rehomes stray and unwanted Labrador Retrievers. LLR promotes responsible Labrador ownership through breed education and spay & neuter advocacy to prevent abandonment and homelessness of Labrador Retrievers.

LLR takes in Labradors from animal shelters that are going to be euthanized because they are determined to be “unadoptable.” This could mean that the dog needs more medical care than the shelter can afford, the dog needs obedience lessons, or simply that the dog is black in color. Black dogs are the last dogs to be adopted in shelters.

LLR does not have a facility, instead is run entirely through a network of volunteers and foster homes. Our work to rescue Labradors throughout the state could not happen without the loving, generous fosters who open their hearts and their homes to rescue dogs. We rely solely on donations from the public to provide food, supplies and veterinary care for our rescues.

Since 1999, LLR has rescued and rehomed several thousand dogs. In 2008, LLR placed over 200 dogs in new homes. Currently, we have close to 50 dogs in foster care- most of them are heartworm positive. The average cost of heartworm treatment is $500.00 without any complications. If you have ever thought about fostering, please visit our website www.lowcountrylabrescue.org for more information.

Ruthie is a one year old black female and a very pleasant young girl. She is dog and kid friendly, but perhaps a little too curious for cats. She is house trained, but does not do well in a crate.

She walks well on a leach and behaves great in busy public areas.

Penny is a six year old yellow female. She is a sweet, loving girl, who never meets a stranger. If you pet her she is quick to rollover and gives you her belly to rub. She is always a happy dog who just wants to be around you, and almost cries in excitement when you come home.

Vinnie is a 1-2 year old black male, who is recovering well from right elbow surgery. He loves to follow you around the house and snuggle on the couch. Vinnie is an excellent swimmer and plays well with other dogs. He is crate trained and will make a nice addition to any family.

Oliver as 2 – 3 year old beautiful boy who is part lab and part hound. He is the most affectionate dog who craves constant attention, and is happiest when he is...literally...sitting in your lap. He is a houdini at getting out and going on adventures. He would be the perfect only “child” for someone with lots love, patience, and a 6 foot fence!

Scottie is a beautiful two year old black male, who is kid and dog friendly. He is house trained but needs a bit of work walking on a leash. He is about a 3/10 on the energy scale.

Horace is a senior dog looking for his retirement home. Don’t let his age fool you though, he is very energetic and loves to run and play. He is a warm and fuzzy lab, loves being near his humans.

Although Horace is a big dog, he is kid and cat friendly and gets along well with other dogs.

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Lowcountrydog

I Bark for Parks!

Does your pooch have a favorite park? please share with us a special story or memory of your dog at one of charleston’s parks and it could be published in Lowcountry Dog! sign up to be a park angel with the charleston parks conservancy at parkangels.org and then upload your story under the specific park at www.parkangels.org/park_wikis. or you can even email your story to pwentz@charlestonparksconservancy.org. entries will be accepted until June 30, 2009. the winning entry will be published in the august/september issue of Lowcountry Dog along with a professional photo of you and your best friend. for more information, visit charlestonparksconservancy.org and select programs.

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