Lowcountry Dog Magazine October/November 09

volume 5, issue 6

magazine october/november 2009

Peninsula

PUPS

hiking hounds should you vaccinate? choosing the right rescue

Publisher Leah England (843) 478-0266 leah@lowcountrydog.com

contents

Guest Photographer Julia Lynn www.julialynn.com Staff Photographer Ashley Smith Blackburn www.lowcountryfocus.com Accounting Carrie Clark Financial Services (843) 367-9969 carriecl@comcast.net Intern Maggie Lott maggie@lowcountrydog.com For Ad Rates Call

(843) 478-0266 Lowcountry Dog Magazine PO Box 22 Mt. Pleasant, SC 29465 www.lowcountrydog.com 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 leading 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.

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october/november 2009 hiking hounds 5 boredom busters increase adoptions at cas 6 choosing the right rescue 8 peninsula pups 12 calendar 20 health and wellness 22 Vaccines, Titers, Confusion? training 24 Back to Basics adoption 26 Pet Helpers

Cover photo and middle table of contents photo by Julia Lynn.

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Hiking Hounds

When the rolling hills turn red and yellow in the late October sun, there’s no better time to head to the mountains. Your dog agrees.

In the case of the author’s Australian Shepherd, Goose, fetching the well-worn red backpack from the garage generates anticipatory excitement worthy of Pavlov. Wherever it is that we’re headed, he knows he’s in for days of exploring, sleeping outside, and 24-hour companionship.

Hiking with your dog provides an unparalleled opportunity to forge a bond and encourage respect for your commands. For once, the demands pulling attention away from one another are greater for your pal than for you — A squirrel! A stick! Which way do we go? Some dogs lead, others prefer to follow, but all will enjoy the physical exertion and the time outdoors with their favorite human.

Heading Up the Mountain If you’re considering an overnight hike, outfit your furry friend with a quality pack. RuffWear and MountainSmith make doggie backpacks in a variety of sizes, allowing them to carry their own food and water. It’s important for your pal’s comfort that their pack fit correctly, and a quality pack will hold up when your dog inevitably decides to roll around with it on.

Don’t overload your dog. Most can handle 20 to 30 percent of their body weight – generally enough for five days of food, packed separately into individual zip-lock bags. You’ll realize quickly if your weight distribution is off between the bags.

Dogs don’t require filtered water like humans, and most of the Lowcountry and Appalachia has abundant enough water sources that a back-up quart is sufficient for your furry companion. A good trail map (especially along the Appalachian Trail) includes icons for water sources — important knowledge if you head into higher elevations.

Even dull claws can penetrate an air mattress or feather-down sleeping bag, so consider the repercussions before inviting your pooch into the tent. Many tents include an awning that extends

text & photography by Stratton Lawrence

beyond the screened portion, allowing your pal to escape the elements. The Emerald Mountain SL2 by Big Agnes is an excellent lightweight tent for backpacking with one or two dogs.

A flashing LED light or glow-stick (find them at the dollar store) is a great way to keep track of your pup around camp at night. It’s also important to treat their waste as you would your own in the backcountry — bury it at least six inches below the soil level.

Because our canine friends are curious by nature, there is always the potential of an encounter with stinging insects or a snake. Pack an antihistamine drug like Benadryl in case they run into trouble. And of course, bring some high-protein treats (EVO makes good ones) to reward and reenergize your buddy when you reach the summit.

A Hike For Every Pup Long-distance backpacking isn’t for everyone, but your dog will benefit from even an afternoon of exploring in the woods, away from the distractions of other people. If your pal has a tendency to run away, start them on a leash. In an open area with good visibility, consider letting them walk freely with the leash still on. Even the best behaved dogs may bolt after a critter, but when walking on a trail, most will be eager to follow the many scents left by previous hikers along the footpath. continued on pg. 11 Lowcountrydog

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BUSTERS] [BOREDOM increase adoptions at CAS

by Laura Reiman

It seems like every time I walk the aisles of an animal shelter there are rows of dogs spinning in circles, barking wildly or just lying around with a dazed look in their eyes. The newly implemented enrichment program at the Charleston Animal Society is working to fight just these habits – common signs of boredom.

From frozen chicken broth “doggy pops” to kongs filled with yogurt and cereal, the idea is to get dogs mentally and physically stimulated. The program, still in the early stages and spearheaded by staff member Jen Benard, has stemmed from a larger endeavor to bring ASPCA’s “Meet Your Match” to the Lowcountry. Think Match.com, but for your pet. A potential adopter fills out a survey with questions pertaining to lifestyle and desires in a companion, and is assigned a color.

They are then sent into the shelter and can spend extra time checking out dogs that share their color, having also gone through some rigorous testing.

These tests, or SAFER Assessments, not only categorize the dogs as high-energy or coach potatoes, but also screen for aggression. Enter enrichment, which is a great way to combat aggression that can build in dogs as they stay cooped up and unmotivated in the shelter environment.

The ultimate goal of both Meet Your Match and the enrichment program is to increase live release rates of the dogs, and decrease the probability a dog will be returned to the shelter after adoption. With seven kennel pods alone just to house the dogs, the Charleston Animal Society has to tailor whatever they do to their high intake rate.

Other local shelters including PetHelpers and the Francis R. Willis SPCA are also using enrichment and looking to implement Meet Your Match.

Stimulation for the dogs comes in all forms. Scents are a big hit: cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla extract all finding success.

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Some of the dogs are pickier than others, which can mean several frozen and dirty kongs to clean up at the end of the day. The general rule seems to be the more stinky and gross, the more enjoyable for a dog.

With a limited budget, nothing goes to waste and creativity is seen at its best. One

Jen Benard spearheads the Enrichment Program at Charleston Animal Society

trick is to soak multiple ropes in a bucket of chicken broth and freeze them. In the spirit of efficiency, the bucket of broth is then poured into cups and frozen as well. These resource-savers are great, but the shelter is really reaching out to the community on this one. With wish lists posted in stores, a FaceBook page and other publicity around town, any donations are welcomed with open arms. The shelter’s first priority is food, housing and medical attention for the animals, so the enrichment program has to take a backseat when it comes to funding.

Jen is confident the community will answer the call to help because “the program is something tangible the community can see making a difference. It’s opening new doors and possibilities for these dogs,” she says.

Every dog reacts differently when it comes to enrichment, which is exactly what I got to witness first-hand at the Charles-

ton Animal Society. Ken, still a puppy and teething, waited for Jen to place a frozen rope on the ground before getting to work on the ends. Obviously enjoying every minute of his distraction, he was still curious of the activity around him. Next door lives a more rambunctious dog, Marley. A proclaimed “booger,” Marley has been finding ways to devour his enrichment toys/treats at a fast pace. In order to make things a bit more difficult Jen concocts new activities for him. One such treat is a paper towel roll stuffed with brown rice cereal and chicken bouillon powder with crumpled newspaper in both ends. Marley took his prize through the cage door and went to town, a look of elation in his eyes.

Flanking him on the other side is an obviously more timid dog named Calliah. She stayed on her blanket until the lure of the treat caused her to rise and retrieve the goods. With tentative licks, Calliah seemed unsure but also hooked. Meanwhile, Marley’s nose was buried deep in the tube looking for his delicious reward. Before leaving I passed by Marley to see if he had found his way to the center of the tube. There he was, a giant grin on his face, surrounded by the remnants of shredded paper and success.

While different stimulating activities for the dogs have always been apart of shelter life, things have kicked into high gear.

The greatest part of this program is the new ideas it generates. “A bored dog is a destructive dog,” says Jen. All it takes is a treat here, a pat there, and the dogs are that much healthier. I know I will be using some of these newfound tips and tricks at home to keep my dog happy and stimulated.

To learn more about this special program and see these boredom busting techniques in action, watch a documentary on the Animal Enrichment Program at lowcountrydog.com/video.html.

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Choosing the Right Rescue

by Kelsey Gilmore

When considering whether to add a new furry member to their families, many people steer away from purebred dog breeders. Instead, many people choose to adopt a pet. Local adoption shelters and rescues are wonderful places to find homeless, deserted, or stray dogs that need a loving home.

There are generally two types of rescue shelters from which to adopt a dog. The first are government-run shelters, such as the Charleston Animal Society. The second are privately held non-profit organizations, like breed-specific rescues, that have a choice whether to accept a pet into their program. Both are 501(c)(3) organizations, meaning that because their purpose is to prevent cruelty to animals they are exempt from taxes that would otherwise apply to corporations. Adoption fees might be tax-deductible and should help fund the rescue or shelter’s ability to take in, feed, and provide medical care for more animals, or might go into a general fund for advertising and administration costs.

South Carolina’s counties have permission through our state’s laws to establish animal shelters for the purpose of impounding and quarantining dogs and cats. County shelters are controlled and regulated by their respective county government rules and regulations. For example, the Charleston Animal Society is designated by Charleston County as the “approved animal shelter.” This means that all the dogs picked up by Animal Control within Charleston County will find their way to the Charleston Animal Society. In the City of Charleston, Animal Control has the authority to regulate and control the local animal shelter.

Dogs available for adoption at county shelters may have been surrendered by their owners, may have been picked up by animal control, or may have been 8

Lowcountrydog

confiscated through abuse or neglect scenarios. The dogs are generally screened by animal behavior specialists at the shelter, and screened for any fatal diseases and/or infections before being placed on the adoption floor. Adoption fees or redemption fees (to get your dog back if it ends up at the shelter) generally go to the municipality as a whole or specifically to the shelter.

Because government shelters are the “catch-all” shelters for

the county, they are usually forced to euthanize animals for many reasons, including behavioral problems the dog has or over-crowding at the shelter. Most county shelters work tirelessly to avoid euthanasia; they provide special training for an at risk dog, move it to another shelter that has empty space, place him or her in a temporary foster home, etc.

Unfortunately, they sometimes exhaust all their opportunities to save the dog, and the dog is humanely put down.

Rescue organizations in South Carolina are monitored financially to ensure they comply with all state and federal requirements. However, there are no mandatory inspections to ensure a rescue organization’s animals are being boarded in acceptable facilities or even that the animals are being provided with adequate food, water, and medical care. In general, 501(c)(3) animal rescue organizations need only comply with the standard animal abuse laws that apply to all of us. Thus,

it is important to screen a rescue before you participate in its program. Ask to see the facility or meet the dog’s foster parents. Contact animal control and area veterinarians and ask if the rescue is in good standing. Ask rescue personnel for references of those who have adopted dogs from the program in the past. Most rescues are above reproach and take excellent care of the dogs within their program.

However, there are sad exceptions to this rule. With a little investigation you can be sure you are not contributing to the financial stability of a questionable rescue program.

Petfinder.com is an excellent way to begin your search for that soulful pair of eyes in need of a loving forever home.

The website lists dogs from both rescues and shelters, and search criteria can be narrowed down by breed type, gender, age, size and location. Make sure to keep an eye on the LCD calendar here in the print edition as well as online, where you can find all the latest meet & greets and adoption events. Good luck on your search!

These pups, and many more like them, await adoption at the Francis R. Willis SPCA, www.summervillespca.com. Photo

by Julia Lynn.

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essential backpaking gear: doggie backpack collapsible dog bowl Follow publisher leash LeahtoEngland trowel bury poop tent withon anTwitter. extended awning led light or glowsticks twitter.com/leahengland benadryl ziplock bags for food high-protein treats

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Lowcountrydog

continued from pg. 3 Around the Lowcountry, there are many dog-friendly hikes that don’t require the four-hour drive to the mountains. The Francis Marion National Forest abounds with walkable logging roads. Loop trails like the 2-mile I’on Swamp Trail provide a wonderful afternoon escape. Magnolia Plantation allows dogs on their seven miles of nature and swamp trails. For a flat-land overnight, the Palmetto Trail begins in Awendaw on the Intracoastal Waterway.

That seven-mile passage connects to the 47-mile Swamp Fox Passage. Multiple road crossings allow a trip of any desired length.

Of course, when hiking in the Lowcountry, keep in mind that snakes and alligators are abundant, especially in the warmer months. If your dog roams far and wide when unrestrained, using a leash is wise.

Regardless of where or how long you hike, your dog will be grateful to join you.

Older dogs will surprise you as they bound up the trail, full of energy when turned loose outside. On one trip, we encountered Patty, an attractive mutt who survived being hit by a car but lost a leg. Even with three limbs, she was eager and excited to be high on a mountain-top, miles away from the closest road.

Another occasion found Goose, (the Aussie), stumbling onto a herd of wild ponies. That may have normally resulted in wild barking and disastrous results, but after three days of hiking and constant attention, only one command was necessary to bring him back to our side.

Hiking gives urban and suburban dogs a chance to test their boundaries, thus instilling the realization that they don’t need to run away to explore. The shared experience of freedom in the woods builds a relationship between a dog and an owner that lasts after you’ve returned to life at home. For humans sweating their pack up a steep mountainside, there’s nothing like the inspiration of your best pal peeking back to make sure you’re still following.

And, of course, when the sun sets and the black darkness of the forest sets in, it’s a lot less lonely with your furry friend sleeping beside you.

Peninsula

PUPS photography by Julia Lynn

Boykin Spaniels are the SC state dog, and downtown Charleston boasts a beautiful example of the breed named Seabrook Ravenel.

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Lowcountrydog

Hank & Klaus Donnelly, both rescued mixed breeds, enjoy the sunny porch of their Wagener Terrace 1940’s bungalow.

CHARLESTON’S Architectural Vernacular has LONG BEEN the

hallmark

of the patinaed port city, but it’s her RESIDENT DOGS who are the

defining signet of

LIFE here in the lowcountry.

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Riley Forte, a Wheaten Terrier, is a recognized fixture of her neighborhood near Colonial Lake.

Lucky girl Ruby Abney, a Weimaraner, lives within walking distance of Hampton Park.

Muggsy McCraw, a rarely seen Douge de Bordeaux, lounges on his cool piazza which is an architectural feature commonly found in original “Charleston Singles�

Rhett Butler Marko and Boss Marko are appropriately named Labradors living on S. Battery.

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Lowcountrydog

Sadie Dougherty, a Labradoodle, greets tourists in true southern belle style from behind her Philip Simmons-crafted front gate.

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In the trendy and hip midtown area of the peninsula resides one very cool greyhound named Calhoun Zhal.

Flip and Ollie Stenbit (L) and Sammy Tarrant (R) are adorable sites for tourists meandering through the maze of streets South of Broad .

See behind the scenes and discover the inspiration for this photo shoot at www.lowcountrydog.com/video.html.

Juliette Baffa,

a rescued Doberman, welcomes visitors to her South of Broad home, considered one of Charleston’s quintessential carriage houses.

Special thanks to Alpha Dog Omega Cat, who supplied the beautiful collars and breed specific accessories. www.alphadogomegacat.com

happy hounds

nula & sadie

dixie blackmail

cooper

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

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bella

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bogey & madison

lacey

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buxton tucker maggie

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harlowe eowyn

daisy Lowcountrydog

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upcoming events october 10th 4pm-7pm bold and gold wine tasting. Join us at Wine Styles in Mt. Pleasant Towne Center. Proceeds benefit The Low Country Golden Retriever Rescue.

october 10th 11am-5pm daniel island park day. A fall tradition for the whole family, dogs included. Vendors, entertainment, non-profits, food, dog showcase, arts &crafts, climbing walls and more! Free admission. Go to www. danielislandparkday.com for more info.

october 10th 1am-3pm greyhound pets of america charleston meet & greet at hairy winston. Mt. Pleasant Towne Center.

www.adoptcharlestongreys.org.

october 10th 11am-3pm noble ones bully breed rescue bark for biscuits at chick-fil-a. West Ashley.

Visit www.NOBBR.org for more info.

october 4th 6pm-8pm greyhound pets of america yappy hour at red’s. Shem Creek in Mt. Pleasant. w w w. a d o p t c h a r l e s t o n g r e y s . o r g .

october 16th-18th 8am – 3pm charleston dog training club agility trials. Fall agility trial at Mullet Hall Equestrian Center, Johns Island County Park, 2662 Mullet Hall Road, Johns Island. Over 100 dogs and handlers from throughout the southeast will compete.

The public and their leashed, well-behaved dogs are invited to attend at no charge.

For additional information, call 696-2892.

october 17th 11am-2pm greyhound pets of america meet & greet at all is well summerville. 440-A Old Trolley Road.

www.adoptcharlestongreys.org.

october 24th 10am-3pm cas paws in the park. Paws in the Park and Walk for the Animals is an all day event at Park Circle in N. Charleston featuring a fun walk team fundraiser, games, food, vendors, animal experts, live music and activities for pets and their families. $10 per dog.

october 24th 2pm charleston westie club get together.

Charleston Westie Club will be having their bi-annual ‘get together’ at the Charleston Park – (Longpoint Rd). Our last event had 62 Westies attending. Visit www. charlestonwestieclub.com for more info.

october 25th 4pm-6pm annual my three dogs halloween party.

Photographer, costume contest, prizes, food and much more! Go to www.mythreedogs. com for more info and directions.

october 28th from 5pm-8pm doggie dining and drinks. Join The Low Country Golden Retriever Rescue at The Dog and Duck in Belle Hall Shopping Center for a good time on the patio. Members will be on hand taking adoption and foster applications.

571 - 7177 or visit www.lcgrr.org.

november 1st 12pm-1pm sc pit bull rescue bully walk. Downtown Charleston. ALL DOGS WELCOME! Visit www.scpitrescue.org for more info.

november 14th 10am-1pm west ashley petsmart lcgrr meet and greet. The Low Country Golden Retriever Rescue will be there with fostered goldens looking to meet their forever families. www.lcgrr.org or call 571 - 7177.

november 18th 5pm-8pm dog tales with golden tails. Come by for drinks and dinner and join The Low Country Golden Retriever Rescue on the patio of the Dog and Duck at 1580 Old Trolley Road in Summerville. Meet our wonderful volunteers and some of our Goldens ready for adoption. www. lcgrr.org or call 571 - 7177 for more info.

november 29th from 9am-9pm low country golden retriever rescue gift wrapping. Shop early at Barnes and Noble in Mt. Pleasant Towne Center and have your presents wrapped by our volunteers. Donations are welcome and go towards the medical care of these most loving goldens.

For more info visit www.lcgrr.org.

december 5th 1pm-5pm charleston animal society celebrity chili cook-off at maritime center.

Music, food and a new Kids Fun Zone. $25 donation includes chili, beer, wine, oysters, hot dogs and festivities. Children 10+ $10 and under 10 are FREE. Call 843-329-1546 to order by phone. Tickets will also be on sale at the door the day of the event. Visit www. charlestonanimalsociety.org for details.

october 17th 10am – 2pm grand strand humane society walk. The Low Country Golden Retriever Rescue is excited to participate this year in Myrtle Beach. Located at Broadway at the Beach on the Imax side. Oh, the fun that is planned for our canine friends and families. You don’t want to miss this. www.lcgrr.org.

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november 6th 6:30pm pet helpers 5th annual fur ball black tie gala. Memminger Auditorium, 56 Beaufain St., downtown Charleston.

Seated dinner, silent auction, dancing & entertainment. This year our theme is Fur Bollywood! Guests are encouraged to wear Bollywood attire and Saris. Tickets to are $150 each and can be purchased at the shelter or by calling (843) 795-1110. Or you can purchase them at www.pethelpers.org.

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.

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Vaccines, Titers, Confusion?

by Ruth Roberts, DVM Sun Dog Cat Moon Veterinary Clinic

Vaccines are important to protect pets from diseases that can make them very ill or kill them, but they are often over used.

There is a lot of confusion about what vaccines should be given and how often.

There are numerous vaccine protocols, as each veterinarian determines the protocol to be used in his or her practice.

The information on the internet ranges from not vaccinating at all to vaccinating each year. Your veterinarian can help you work through some of these issues for your personal pet, and because each pet has individual health issues and exposure risks, it is best to have a conversation with someone who knows your pet’s medical history, In the 40’s & 50’s before vaccines were available, distemper virus could blow through a town and wipe out an entire population of dogs. Rabies was a huge problem, and was almost always fatal. In the 70’s Parvovirus killed many dogs, and owners and veterinarians were powerless to stop the deaths. In all 3 cases vaccines have saved many pets’ lives, and prevented a lot of suffering. Vaccines are good and when used judiciously help protect our pets and us. The basic idea behind vaccines is to provide herd health.

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The herd becomes protected when 10% or more of the population is immune to the disease. Coupled with natural immunity, the herd will not suffer a lot of deaths or sickness from a virus.

However, it is unfortunate if you are the individual that is not protected and you get sick. This is why we recommend that each individual pet be vaccinated. Some viruses are highly contagious and you can inadvertently transfer them to you pet from your clothes.

Most vaccines today are modified live or recombinant. The virus is modified so that it will not affect the host, but will stimulate the host’s immune system to develop antibodies against it. Rarely a modified live vaccine can revert to virulence and infect the host with the disease. In order for a vaccine to be licensed the FDA only requires a 1-year challenge study. Because annual vaccines are considered the norm, no manufacturer felt it was economically feasible to go for an extended study on the duration of immunity or on the consequences of frequent and long-term exposure to these vaccines. For many years, no one in the veterinary medicine community considered that vaccines could cause harm. We knew about vaccine reactions - generally mild - but serious disease or reactions that could be life threatening were not thought to occur.

Then in the 90’s fibrosarcomas started showing up in cats. These tumors were at injections sites, between the shoulder blades usually. They were aggressive tumors that grew and became raw, painful masses. Veterinarians and pet owners began thinking about the tumors’ possible relationship to vaccines. Researchers started asking why this was happening, and the link between these tumors & the vaccines became clear. We began to realize that vaccines were not innocuous.

Discussion within the community moved onto questioning why we vaccinate every year. In 1999, Dr. Ron Schultz released a study that showed that there was 3 to 7 year duration of immunity to many common diseases we vaccinate against. The AAFP (American Association

of Feline Practitioners) presented a 3-year vaccine protocol based on this study, and recommended that only core vaccines be given. In 2006, AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) released canine vaccine guidelines for core & non-core vaccines. Between 1999 & 2006, all of the vaccine manufacturers provided 3-year studies that showed their vaccines were protective for at least 3 years.

Some vaccines guarantees were based on challenge studies (exposure to actual disease in huge doses), and others based on titers (blood test).

Based on the recommendations of AAFP, AAHA, and most of the veterinary schools, vaccines are divided into core and non-core categories. Core vaccines prevent the diseases that most pets may be exposed to in the course of their lives. For dogs they are: Distemper virus, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, and Rabies.

Non-core vaccines for dogs include: Kennel Cough, Leptospirosis and Lyme vaccine, unless there is significant risk for exposure. Not recommended vaccines include those with dubious efficacy such as: Coronavirus, Rattle snake vaccine, Giardia vaccine and the Periodontitis. For cats, the core vaccines are: Panleukopenia, Herpes virus, Calicivirus, and Rabies. Noncore vaccines include: feline Leukemia and feline Immunodeficiency virus. Not recommended vaccines include: feline infectious Peritonitis, Clamdophylia, feline Bordatella, and feline Giardia.

All core vaccines should be given in a series for puppies and kittens. For both kittens and puppies the first vaccine should be given somewhere between 6 and 12 weeks, with the Rabies vaccine at 12 or 16 weeks. Feline Leukemia should be given at 8 and 12 weeks. Canine Bordatella should be given at 8 to 9 weeks. Protocols will vary between veterinarians. I currently recommend the core vaccines start at 12 weeks. At 12 months after the rabies vaccine, each animal should have boosters of the core vaccines. At that point they will not need revaccination for 3 to 5 years. (Rabies must be boostered every 3 years). The AAFP recommends that all kittens receive the feline Leukemia series,

and booster at 1 year if the cat is at risk for developing feline Leukemia, though many researchers believe that cats over a year of age have little risk of developing the disease.

3 to 5 years after receiving the core vaccine boosters, there are 2 choices: either revaccinate, or draw a titer sample.

Vaccine titers are blood tests that measure the level of antibodies in the animal’s blood stream against a particular virus.

Titers tell us if an animal is protected against a disease; they can also tell us if an animal has responded to a vaccine. A negative or low titer in an animal that has been previously vaccinated may still mean that the animal is protected.

This is because cell mediated immunity, which cannot be measured, may provide adequate protection. A house test for Distmper and Parvo virus is available.

It is possible to have a false negative result, but very unlikely to have a false positive. The level of antibody required for the pet to test positive is 4 times that needed for protection. Gold standard titer tests generally involve outside labs doing serum neutralization tests. Titers can be run for all of the core vaccines, including Rabies virus. Because Rabies is contagious to humans, the Department of Health in South Carolina (and all states in the US) requires it to be given either every year or 3 years, depending on how the vaccine is licensed. Titers test results are accepted at many boarding kennels in lieu of the actual vaccine, with the exception of Bordatella, as it only lasts for 1 year.

The Fibrosarcomas in cats that got everyone talking about vaccines is now known to be a genetic issue - less than 0.02% of cats are affected. So why are we still concerned about over vaccinating? There are several severe health issues that can result from vaccines. In general, if your pet has or had cancer or an autoimmune disease, it should not be vaccinated again.

In dogs, skin and bone lesions are related to specific brands of vaccines. Dr. Jean Dodds believes low thyroid (hypothroid) function is related to over-vaccination.

Vaccine reactions vary from swelling around the face to severe anaphylaxis.

These issues are a small percentage of the total vaccine doses given.

Talk to your veterinarian to develop a vaccine protocol based on your pet’s exposure risks. See your veterinarian every year for a physical examination, and laboratory testing to make sure there are not early problems in your dog’s health.

introducing

LCD video online at lowcountrydog.com

Lowcountry Dog Magazine is proud to announce the grand opening of its new online video center, and is once again giving people something to bark about.

Dog owners can now watch videos produced by the area’s leading pet publication and online site, providing the inside scoop on all things pertaining to local dogs and the people who love them – everything from choosing, to taking care of, to living with, and to celebrating that lovable creature that is a Charleston Dog. Dog owners can expect to watch videos from local experts on health and wellness, behavior and training, pet products and services, lifestyle and community issues. And much like the magazine, where local readers submit topics and essays for publication, there will be a special section for reader submitted videos.

current featured videos:

Craig, a sweet, but sometimes rambunctious young Labrador, takes you on a tour of all 11 area off-leash dog parks.

Find out what it takes to get the perfect shot in a behind-the-scenes look at an LCD photo shoot.

What do an arthritic mixed breed, a Weimaraner suffering with bloat, a Border Collie with seizures, and overly energetic pup all have in common? Hydrotherapy at Paddling Paws.

Learn how the Charleston Animal Society’s Animal Enrichment Program is increasing adoption numbers and what you can do to help – even without adopting a dog!

What do 600 dogs in the Whirlin’ Waters wave pool look like? Find out in the LCD video center at www.lowcountrydog.com/video.html CALL FOR VIDEO SUBMISSIONS LCD is accepting video of pet tricks. Can your dog walk up stairs backwards? Eat a hot dog in 5 seconds? Or open doors? Catch them on video, upload the video to youtube.com or vimeo.com and email the link to us at: video@lowcountrydog.com

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Fall Means Back Basics

2

Socialization Almost all of us have had, or maybe still have what you might consider to be the “perfect dog”. You know the one….. the one that really seems to “get it” after telling him only a couple of times what you want. The dog that instinctively understands your body language, follows your cues without much repetition, and seems to learn what acceptable behavior is and what is not, and all very quickly. She grasps our human words as if she knows English, he learns obedience and tricks at an exceptional rate, and instinctively wants to please us in every way, at any moment possible. She almost seems to ask us to teach her more. Most importantly, he loves other dogs and people, and she has never shown any aggressive tendencies in her lifetime. For those of you that have had this type of dog, consider yourself very fortunate, but also give yourself some credit if you properly socialized your pup at the appropriate age, and began training as soon as you met the dog and brought him or her home. Socialization has become a more commonly used word in the last decade; however, I have seen many cases in which my clients had no idea of what socializing a puppy meant. They may have heard the word before, but again, didn’t really have a clear concept of what proper socialization is and how significant it can 24

Lowcountrydog

be in reducing dog bites. I have also been told by clients that they never socialized their puppy, but after asking a few questions and researching the situation, found out they really did socialize their puppy, they just didn’t realize that’s what they were doing.

They took her on family vacations to the beach and the mountains, trips to the pet store, daily walks, and to Grandma’s on Sunday. He went to the pond for a swim once a week, the dog park, and over to friends’ houses to play with their dogs and children every chance they got. The neighbors’ kids would come over and ask if he could come out and play with them, and he did!! This, my friends, is socialization.

Leadership All dogs are unique, have their own personality, learn at different rates, and react differently to new situations. I have encountered countless dogs and puppies between the ages of 5 months to over 2 years old at the local shelters, that were there because their frustrated owners said they “wouldn’t listen” or “kept jumping,” “were stealing food” or “chewing the furniture.“ These pups and dogs at the shelter where never truly trained how to live in a human household; I am positive they were not given sufficient mental and physical stimulation, and I would bet they were not properly socialized during the critical time period between 7 and 16 weeks. They may have been told once, twice, or even a number of times not to jump, beg at the table, chew on our things, etc., but for most dogs, that isn’t enough.

You have to commit to being patient and training your dog. If you train him to sit when he meets people, he is not jumping; if you train her to chew her toys, she is not chewing your shoes. If you train him to wait before being fed or going out the

by Kirstie Allen, The Learning Canine door, he learns impulse control. If you ask her to leave the table or kitchen, and she doesn’t truly know what it means, you can’t expect her to comply. You can teach him how to comply however. The behaviors we see as problems are very typical of our dogs if they were living amongst a pack of dogs in their natural state. They are animals - they are born with the instincts of how to stay alive in the wild. Sure, we have domesticated them; however, they still have hard wired survival instincts and always will. We have to teach and guide them how to co exist peacefully in our human environment whether it takes 2 weeks or 2 years. They do not know our rules until we teach them.

Patience Too often, the average person gives up after the dog doesn’t “get it” after only a couple of attempts at teaching a new cue.

It’s not the human’s fault, so to speak, as this is our nature and the average person’s perception of how a dog learns. However, if your dog is not succeeding, you, as the leader, need to accept the responsibility and hold yourself accountable instead of the dog. Stop and think about it - does your dog really have an understanding of the cue? Has she practiced around distractions and have you added distance to these distractions? Have you built a bond with him and does he view you as his fair and benevolent leader? Teach at the dog’s pace, make it fun and rewarding for her, be patient, and never forget how unique and different your dog is. Lead by example. Dogs are visual creatures and often learn by watching you or another dog do something. If you want to spoil your dog, do so by being a leader and patiently teaching her the lessons she needs to learn to live happily ever after with you and your family in your human world.

Proofing Your Cues

Some trainers and dog owners believe that if a dog already understands a cue, and doesn’t perform it, then punishment must be induced. The glitch with this belief however, is that you can’t validate, with 100% exactitude, that the dog is just being headstrong and unwilling to comply.

Before you assume a dog truly understands what a cue means, try an experiment created by Dr. Ian Dunbar, Director of the Center for Applied Animal Behavior in Berkeley, California: Take a dog that you believe truly knows the cue Sit. • You sit on the floor. Cue the dog to sit.

• While you remain in one spot, ask the dog to sit 15ft across the room • Hop on one foot while you spin in a circle.

Cue the dog to sit.

• Drop treats all over the floor. Cue the dog to sit. (The dog should ignore the treats) If your dog can sit under these distractions and assortment of contexts, then you could say he truly knows the meaning of sit. Do this with every cue, not just “Sit” to proof your dog’s knowledge of the cue.

More info at Kristie.TheDogTrainer.org

Lowcountry Home Vet

VETERINARY HOUSE CALL PRACTICE

High quality comprehensive medical care for dogs & cats.

Serving residents of Charleston County Lowcountrydog

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adoption Pet Helpers Pet Helpers is a private, non-profit 501c 3 Adoption Center and Low Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic that serves communities across the Lowcountry. Their mission is to end the euthanasia of all adoptable cats and dogs by keeping all animals until adopted; providing low cost spay/neuter surgeries; offering humane education programs; pursuing animal cruelty prosecution; and initiating animal welfare legislation. Pet Helpers is located at 1447 Folly Road on James Island. The Adoption Center is open Monday – Friday, 11 am – 6 pm.

Saturday 11 am – 5 pm and closed on Sundays/Holidays.

The Low Cost Spay and Neuter Clinic is open Monday Thursday from 8am - 4am. You must call 843.302.0556 to schedule and appointment. For more information about Pet Helpers visit www.pethelpers.org or call 843.795.1110.

Pet Helpers 5th Annual Fur Ball Black Tie Gala will be held Friday, November 6th, 6:30 p.m., at Memminger Auditorium, located at 56 Beaufain Street in downtown Charleston. This year our theme is Fur Bollywood! Guests are encouraged to wear Bollywood attire and Saris…Bindis will abound!

Tickets to the Fur Ball cost $150 each and can be purchased at the shelter or by calling (843) 7951110. Visa and MasterCard are available. Or you can purchase them online by going to pethelpers.org.

Hi! My name is Lulu, and I’m an 8-year-old, female Shepherd mix with a heart of gold. I was in an abusive home. Since then, I’ve been loved and nurtured by the entire staff here at Pet Helpers, so I’m now the sweetest girls you will ever want to meet. If you’re looking for a tender soul who will love you forever, and if you will allow me to be your one and only...then come meet your match!!

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Hello! I’m Nicole, a very sweet, shy, female beagle who is about 4 years old. I’m tender-hearted, good on a leash and am looking for a warm place to lay my head.

When I came in to Pet Helpers, I had an injury to my back leg...but Dr. Jack here at the Spay/Neuter Clinic fixed me right up, and now I’m dancing a jig. Please come meet me and let me show you some hound lovin’!! xoxo.

the fur ball committee

Hi, my name is Athena. I am a fiveyear-old Alaskan Malamute. I was turned in with my brother Hanuman. Our owner had to move out of the country. I’m house trained, great on a leash and I know my basic commands. I would love someone to adopt me and my brother. We grew up together and I just love him so much.

My name is Hanuman. I am a oneyear-old Mastiff/Lab mix. I was turned in with my sister Athena when our owner moved out of the country. I like to think that I am a perfect catch because I am house trained, great on a leash and I get a long with other dogs. I am looking for a home that has enough love for me and my sister.

I’m Bucky. I was found wandering River Road looking for your home!! I was saved and brought here for a little rest and relaxation from the heat, since I’ve obviously been on the lamb for awhile.

I’m about 5 years old and am great with other dogs here at the shelter. I do need help with potty training. I am a fabulous dog and with a little patience, I’ll get it!

I’m Travis, a 2-year-old male Shepherd mix. I was found in the woods by a runner and was down to skin and bones. I had been attacked by other dogs and had terrible wounds on my neck. I am a very sweet boy, and I know basic commands. I enjoy jogging and prefer female dogs. I am heartworm positive and in treatment, so I’ll need to be fostered first but when it’s done...I’m yours!

lcd guide

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Lowcountrydog

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Lowcountrydog

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Heart

one-of-a-kind memorial glass art

Create a unique keepsake with the ashes of your cherished pet or loved one. crafted by local artisan, Bradley Tubbs

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