Desert Pet Companion Magazine, Spring 2015

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR PET LOVERS

Complimentary Please Take A Copy!

Spring 2015

Make A Pet First Aid Kit What’s With All Those Tests?

Does My Cat Have Tummy Problems?

Rattlesnake Awareness Los Colores Cat Club Show SOS Seniors Offering Shelter TNR Trap. Neuter. Release Training Tips, Events & Activities

Black Dog Syndrome

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PET EVENTS! Please see pages: 9, 17, 18, 36, 56-61 for great pet events happening this quarter. There are additional events and activies—too many to list! Like us on facebook.com/ desertpetcompanion to keep up with additional petfriendly activities.

Activities and events advertised or listed are subject to change.

Please call the event to confirm information.

If we missed your pet event or activity, please let us know.

Palm Springs: Family Fun Fest!

Wed. March 25th 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

FREE fun for the whole family! At the Palm Springs Stadium.     

Many local Games organizations Crafts and businesses Petting Zoo Entertainment participating!

And more!

Published quarterly.

Fall (Sep-Nov.) Winter (Dec-Feb.) Spring (Mar.-May) Summer (June-Aug.) Publisher: Miriam Wiegel mwiegel@DesertPetCompanion.com Editor: Geoff Winstead editor@DesertPetCompanion.com Advertising Sales: sales@desertpetcompanion.com Printer: Publication Printers Corp. www.publicationprinters.com Distribution: Magazines are available at our advertisers’ locations or please visit our website or call the editorial office for a list of other locations where the magazine is available.

Cover Photo © Alicia Bailey.

Please see Black Dog article on page 6.

FOLLOW US ON Editorial photos © fotolia.com unless otherwise noted.

Desert Pet Companion (DPC) and its publisher assume no responsibility for changes, omissions or errors contained in this publication. Advertising in Desert Pet Companion does not indicate an endorsement by Desert Pet Companion or its publisher. DPC assumes no responsibility for opinions of contributors nor do the opinions expressed by contributors necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the publisher. DPC is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photos, which must be accompanied by return postage and envelope. No part of Desert Pet Companion may be reprinted or copied without express, written permission. ©2014 www.DesertPetCompanion.com Desert Pet Companion is published by Desert Pet Companion Editorial Office: 760-835-0369

Desert Pet Companion, P.O. Box 378 Palm Springs, CA 92263

www.palmspringslibrary.org

For Advertising Information call: 760-835-0369

Remembering

INSIGHT

Forever In My Heart Her name is Insight, a black German Shepherd who came into my life 22 years ago and has remained there ever since. She was elegant, loyal and super bright. On this planet, we were together only eight years, but we will always be together. Her photo is on my store card. I have owned a store on El Paseo for 25 years, and whether our 4 Desert Pet Companion

customers buy or not, they take home a card with Insight on it.

People from all over the world have taken her photo with them. Every night I say a prayer for her. I have had two dogs since then, a Welsh and now a Toy Fox Terrier and I love them. But Insight is the only real love of my life and will always be in my heart. — Bud Johnson

www.DesertPetCompanion.com Spring

2015

Black Dog Syndrome Article and photography by Alicia Bailey

“B

lack Dog Syndrome” is a term used by animal welfare professionals to reference the underadoption rates of dogs with black fur relative to their non-black counterparts. If you have ever worked at a shelter or rescue, you likely have experienced this phenomenon firsthand. Black Dog Syndrome is not a theory; it is a statistically proven phenomenon with research to support it.

One of the first people to advocate heavily on behalf of black dogs is Tamara Delaney, founder of Black Pearl Rescue in Wisconsin (www. blackpearldogs.com). Her early efforts, observations and advocacy on the subject are given significant credit in sparking awareness of this cultural phenomenon. Delaney defines “Black Dog Syndrome” as: “Fear of adopting a black dog because of social, personal or cultural beliefs. Passing judgment on an animal because of its color. Allowing a dog’s color to decide if it is friendly,

6 Desert Pet Companion

playful, loving.”

Some of those beliefs include: The belief that the color black is associated with a negative stigma or “bad luck” The perception that black dogs look generic or “dirty” A black dog is perceived as menacing or vicious Enrichment coordinator and canine behavior evaluator at the Washington Humane Society, Amanda Leonard, examined this phenomenon after observing that large black dogs were consistently being overlooked for adoption, and as a result, euthanized with greater frequency than non-black dogs of the same breed. As Leonard explained in her published study The Plight of “Big Black Dogs” in American Animal Shelters: ColorBased Canine Discrimination, “Big Black Dog (BBD) Syndrome” is: “The extreme under-adoption of large black dogs based not on temperament or health, but rather on the

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Spring 2015

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Desert Pet Companion 7

confluence of a number of physical and environmental factors in conjunction with the Western symbolism of the color black.”* Both Leonard and Delaney posit that various “psychological” factors are likely at play which gives rise to social misconceptions about black dogs. But there are also environmental factors that come into consideration: Poorly lit kennels Bad photographs The lack of resources to get adoptable dogs out into the public eye during shelter hours Many shelters and rescues make great effort to promote their black animals, taking advantage of “Black continued on page 10

About the Cover

MEET JAX 2 year old Lab/Doxie Mix

8 Desert Pet Companion

www.DesertPetCompanion.com Spring

Photography by Alicia Bailey

“A student of mine noticed a black puppy running around her neighborhood. She had seen him out there for a few days but couldn’t take him in because she lived in the dorms. One night, she asked if I would take him. It was February and cold and he was only about 6 months at the time. I took him in and tried to find his owners with no luck. He stayed with me, and has been about as best a friend as I could have asked for.” — Mary

2015

Photography by Alicia Bailey

Resources for shelters, rescues and advocates: • Black Dog Research Studio • Black Pearl Rescue

• Start Seeing Black Dogs

• HeARTs Speak: Photographing Black Dogs • Best Friends Animal Society • ASPCA: Debunking Black Dog Syndrome

Friday” adoption events year round.

Perhaps the most well known campaign for black animals is Back in Black, a nationwide campaign created by Best Friends Animal Society. It runs yearly from May 1-31 and features black dogs and cats at low adoption fees.

Whether you consider the issue of low adoption rates among black dogs from an overall perspective or locally, the best way to really see what is happening in your community is to get involved. The demographics of your homeless animal population, public shelter and private rescue practices 10 Desert Pet Companion

• PetFinder

play a role in determining the level of challenge among advocates. The best way to find out about what is going on is to talk to rescuers and shelter officials in your town.

In the meantime, the next time you decide to add a pet to your family, adopt. Whether you choose to visit your local shelter or adopt through a private rescue, take note of the black dogs. If you don’t see any, ask if they have a black dog available. *(Leonard, A. (2011), The Plight of Big Black Dogs, Kroeber Anthropological Society, v. 99/100, pp. 168).

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2015

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The Pet Hotel at Barkingham Palace

Celebrates Opening Of 2nd Location In Palm Springs

W

hen Lori Weiner established the Pet Hotel at Barkingham Palace in 2011, she was committed to setting a high standard in the pet care industry while meeting the needs of the Desert Community for luxury boarding accommodations and exceptional pet care services for dogs, cats and even birds.

Everything at Barkingham is upscale, from spa wellness treatments (hydrating mud baths for dry irritated skin and coat) to the lavish dog suites. If a dog arrives stressed out, it can be given a Raindrop massage with pure-grade essential oils that will balance energy and release of toxins. All provided by a professional staff on site 24/7.

This attention to detail will now be repeated at her 2nd Barkingham location: Hyde Park in Palm Springs @ 555 S. Palm Canyon Drive. Lori has transformed this 7600 square foot space into a “pet park� atmosphere where dogs (no cats or birds, please) can visit for

14 Desert Pet Companion

Ribbon cutting at the grand opening of Hyde Park in Palm Springs

the day, enjoy a bath or a groom (perhaps even have a massage) or just come to romp with other dogs and play on the fun exercise equipment provided.

Hyde Park is open 7:30am until 6pm, Monday through Saturday for grooming, day care and pet supplies.

Transportation service between Palm Springs and Palm Desert makes overnight boarding much more convenient for those people who live on the other side of town.

Pet Hotel at Barkingham Palace 34-550 Spyder Circle / Dinah Shore Dr. Palm Desert, CA 92211 760-537-1172 www.pethotelcalifornia.com Hyde Park at Barkingham Palm Springs 555 S. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92264 760-327-5700 hydepark@pethotelcalifornia.com

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7600 sq. foot Pet Park -Pet Supplies -Dog Grooming

Pet Hotel & Spa

-Boarding/Daycare -Indoor/Outdoor Park/Pool -Doggy Gym -Pet Grooming The Pet Hotel at Barkingham Palace 34-550 Spyder Circle, Palm Desert, CA 92211 www.pethotelcalifornia.com

A Day at the (Cat) Fair

By John Snedden, Photographs courtesy of Los Colores Cat Club

I

t is Friday morning, the day before the Los Colores Cat Club’s “Country Fair” Cat Show at the Leisure Center Pavilion in Palm Springs, and it is completely empty. Six months earlier, the show license was obtained, six judges were contracted to judge, and airline tickets, lodging and logistics were worked out. Now, to make it happen…

Trucks and trailers begin to pull up to the loading area. Tables, chairs, cages and decorations begin a confusing but well choreographed afternoon of organized chaos. By 5 pm, the empty pavilion has been transformed into a cat show hall. Six judging rings have been placed around the edges and corners of the room. All have been 16 Desert Pet Companion

decorated in a country fair theme. The middle of the hall has row after row of tables with cages where the exhibitors and cats hang out waiting to be called up for judging and then return to wait some more to see if they are called back for the judges’ top ten. Any empty spaces have been filled with vendors selling cat related products. Cat trees and furniture, toys, beds, pillows, curtains, jewelry, clothing, food, shelters, and grooming products abound.

On Saturday morning the exhibitors and cats arrive, check in and set up their home for the day in the middle of the show hall. Up to 225 pedigreed cats, representing over 40 breeds, plus numerous household pets, will fill up

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2015

March 28, 2015 10 am - 5 pm

Palm Springs Leisure Center 401 S. Pavillion Palm Springs, CA

Please e-mail Rhonda at rhonda.avery@hotmail.com for more information

Admission:

$7 - Adults $5 - Seniors/Military $3 - Child Pre-registration required to compete in the Show.

or f d ion a s iss rs i h t m enio g d in ff a ts, S ry r B 2 o dul lita $ A Mi for

or

the rows of the hall. Soon, the noise and buzz of setting up is replaced with announcements over the P.A. system.

The judges are introduced and the show begins!

Judges follow a schedule that allows for every cat in the show to be judged in all six rings by all six judges. Finals for each class (kittens, championship, premiership, household pets, and vet-

EVENT March 28th

O

erans) will be presented by each judge throughout the day. Those cats return to the ring and the judge presents his top 10 choices and explains why.

Awards are given and then the cats return to their benching area waiting for the next ring and judge.

Visitors are allowed to walk up and down the rows to view the cats up close and visit with the exhibitors. They can

All Breed, Household Pet, and Veteran Cat Show Sponsored by the Los Colores Cat Club

n Saturday, March 28th, the Los Colores Cat Club is having an All Breed, Household Pet, and Veteran Cat Show at the Palm Springs Leisure Center, 401 S. Pavilion, in Palm Springs. We call it our “Country Fair.”

Show hours are 10 am to 5 pm and the public is invited to attend. Up to 225 longhair and shorthair pedigreed cats, in addition to household pets and veteran cats, will be judged in six different rings as Kittens (4 to 8 months old), Championship (8 months or older), Premiership (spayed/neutered), Veterans (pedigreed, 7 years and older), and Household Pets (8 months and older spayed/neutered). Each cat will be judged according to its own breed standard. Each judge will then present his or her Top 10 cats in the five different categories for all to see.

Judging is continuous, so there will be something going on all the time in the

18 Desert Pet Companion

six different rings. There is a cat for everyone to enjoy and cheer for.

In addition to the six judging rings, we will have “Hope to Home for Cats,” a rescue for loving cats to loving

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also go from ring to ring to follow their favorites or can stay in just one ring to see all the cats as they are judged.

In the lobby area, “Hope to Home for Cats,” a local cat rescue group, will have cats, and sometimes kittens, that are ready to be adopted and taken home to be loved and cared for. Some might even return next year to compete as a household pet!

By 5 pm, all the cats have been judged; all the awards have been given out, the raffle prizes all given away, rescued cats adopted, and all the food eaten. And by 6:30 that evening, the pavilion looks just like it did on Friday morning—completely empty. No cats, no exhibitors, no vendors, no tables, no judging rings. But in March 2016, we will be back to do it again!

homes available for adoption. There will be many cat-specific vendors on hand, including “Cats & Carpet” cat furniture by Humberto, Softrax Pet Products and 3 Day Pet Supply for food, pet toys, crates and grooming products. Visit HugsNPurrs, Meowsers, and Paws and Pals for handmade pillows, beds and pads, clothing, jewelry, people treats and other goodies.

We will also have Pets n Their People Photography to capture the cats and their significant humans. There will even be a raffle event for all. There will be something for everyone at the “Country Fair.”

If you have questions about the cats, judging, household pets or anything concerning the show, we will have people throughout the show hall

wearing “Ask Me” buttons. They are CFA Ambassadors who can answer all your questions or refer you to someone who can.

Look for our ad in this magazine (see ad on page 17) and bring it with you for a $2 discount off of the $7 adult and $5 senior or military admission price.

Spring 2015

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Desert Pet Companion 19

Getting Real With Your Dog

by Lori Wainio-Carman, VSPDT Dream Dogs

W

hat’s one of the most frequent sources of frustration in dog training? Unrealistic expectations.

Dogs’ intelligence shines through in so many ways that we tend to ascribe them decidedly human cognitive skills, such as the ability to understand complex sentences. It’s what some dog trainers refer to as “the Lassie syndrome.” If you often find yourself frustrated with your dog, here’s a primer on what it takes to create a Lassie:

Patience

One basic training class won’t do it.

The calm, attentive pooches you see 20 Desert Pet Companion

on TV picking up slippers and opening doors have spent years in training.

You wouldn’t expect a child to become a piano virtuoso after one semester of classes, right?

Repetition

Dogs don’t generalize well. This means they need to learn the same lesson (don’t jump on people, for example) in many different settings before they grasp that we always prefer them to greet visitors politely, not just at home. So when the setting in question is full of tempting distractions, like a dog park, multiply the number of repetitions needed.

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Motivation Motivation is what drives your dog to do things, like respond to your cues—especially the second and third time you ask. And no, contrary to popular belief, making us happy is not a strong motivator for dogs. Common

canine motivators include going for car rides, getting a ball tossed, going on walks, playing tug, access to other dogs, access to smells, and—the biggie—food.

Our friendships with dogs work best when they are based on realistic expectations. Why not take a break from the fast-paced, results-oriented mindset of humans and have some fun practicing manners during walks and in your everyday routines? Make it part of your life together, just like walks and baths and teeth cleaning.

Your dog will learn faster (even if that’s slower than you first hoped) and you will suffer fewer frustrations along the way.

Lori Wainio-Carman, VSPDT, professional dog trainer and owner of Dream Dogs has been successfully training for over 20 years.

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My Cat Has Tummy Problems!

Reviewed by Rebecca Diaz, DVM The Cat Clinic

D

oes your cat have chronic vomiting and/or diarrhea? Has its appetite changed? Does it vomit hairballs more than once a month? Has its weight changed? Perhaps it has starting missing the litter box when it poops. All of these are possible symptoms for a cat with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

might have inflammation in the colon, referred to as colitis. Usually middleaged (around 6 years old) and older cats get IBD, but cats may get it at any age.

Since the symptoms are common with many disease and illnesses, veterinarians will eliminate other causes first.

So what is IBD?

Causes

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a group of gastrointestinal diseases for which no single cause is known.

IBD results in the inflammation of the intestines. In affected animals, chronic symptoms are seen to be related to the gastrointestinal system. If the stomach is inflamed, it is referred to as gastritis.

Cats with gastritis typically vomit. Cats with chronic diarrhea or bloody stools

It is believed that a number of causes are suspected to cause inflammatory bowel disease, not a singular one.

Some cats may have hypersensitivity to bacteria. Others may have food allergies. Both are suspected to play a major role in this disease. Some experts don’t even label IBD as a disease, but rather a “syndrome.” Food allergens suspected to play a role in this disease include

24 Desert Pet Companion

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meat proteins, food additives, artificial coloring, preservatives, milk proteins, and gluten (wheat). Genetic factors are also suspected to play a role because purebred cats, particularly Siamese, have been found to be predisposed to IBD.

Symptoms and Types

 Diarrhea  Weight loss  Vomiting  Gas (flatulence)  Abdominal pain  Rumbling and gurgling abdominal sounds  Fatigue  Bright red blood in stool  Depression  Distressed coat hair

Spring 2015

Diagnosis Your veterinarian will ask you detailed questions about the duration and frequency of symptoms and conduct a complete physical examination with routine lab tests, including complete blood count, biochemistry profile, and urinalysis. The results of these tests are often normal. However, in some patients, anemia and an abnormally high number of white blood cells (as in infections) may be present. In cats with IBD, abnormal levels of proteins and liver enzymes may also be found. Parasitic infections can also cause these problems and a fecal examination should be performed as well.

Routine X-rays are usually normal in these patients. Your veterinarian may

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Desert Pet Companion 25

also conduct Barium Contrast Studies for a more detailed evaluation. Barium enhances the visibility of organs. It is usually given orally, followed by a series of X-rays as barium moves downward in gastrointestinal tract. Intestine wall abnormalities, like increased thickness, may be visible through barium contrast studies. Ultrasound can be helpful in determining the changes in the intestine wall. If problems are suspected a small tissue sample may have to be removed surgically to confirm the diagnosis. There are also specific tests to find out if any food allergen may be the cause of this condition.

How is IBD Treated?

In most cats, IBD cannot be “cured” but can be successfully controlled.

However, even after complete recovery, relapses are common. Major goals 26 Desert Pet Companion

of treatment are the stabilization of body weight, the suppression of gastrointestinal symptoms, and the reduction of the immune system’s response.

Therefore, immunosuppresive drugs and antibiotics are key components of the therapy.

In cases of dehydration, fluid replacement therapy can overcome the fluid deficit. Cats with continuous vomiting are usually not given anything orally and may require fluid therapy until vomiting resolves.

Corticosteroids (aka steroids, cortisone, prednisolone) are the mainstay of therapy for IBD. Corticosteroids inhibit the inflammatory process and reduce the inflammation within the intestine. Steroids are notorious for causing side effects in people and dogs. Cats are much more tolerant of steroids and less likely to develop severe side ef-

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fects. Regardless, the goal of therapy is to gradually adjust the dose to the lowest possible amount that controls symptoms. Over time, many cats can be weaned off steroids completely and be maintained on diet alone.

There are several other anti-inflammatory medications available and you should ask your veterinarian if any of them are right for your cat. Metronidazole is an antibiotic that helps restore the normal balance of intestinal bacteria and also has anti-inflammatory properties. The beneficial effects of metronidazole can sometimes reduce the dosage of steroids that are needed.

Cats with severe cases of IBD often need more aggressive anti-inflammatory therapy. Chlorambucil and cyclosporine are examples of drugs that re-

duce inflammation by suppressing the immune system.

Some cats benefit from antacid, anti-nausea or anti-diarrheal therapy.

Your veterinarian can advise if any of these are right for your cat.

Studies in humans suggest that supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids helps decrease inflammation within the gastrointestinal tract. Although more research needs to be done to fully determine their benefit in cats with IBD, it is a reasonable treatment option.

Diet

Highly digestible diets are usually recommended for cats with IBD because nutrients from these diets are more completely absorbed and the

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amount of diarrhea will be minimized.

Diets that contain a single protein source never previously eaten and a carbohydrate source that is unlikely to be antigenic (such as potato) may also be recommended. Commercial products are available or your veterinarian can advise you on a homemade cat food recipe. An appropriate diet must be fed for eight to twelve weeks before a positive affect may be seen. Fiber supplementation is recommended for IBD that affects the colon. Dietary fiber improves stool consistency and produces fatty acids that nourish the colon and discourage the growth of harmful bacteria.

strict diet and possibly anti-inflammatory medication to manage their disease. Most cats with IBD do well for many years while others require alterations in therapy every few months to treat flare-ups and recurrent symptoms. Unfortunately, a few cats will fail to respond to treatment and some severe forms of IBD can progress to intestinal cancer.

Keep your cat with IBD on the right track—have your veterinarian examine him or her three to four times yearly to ensure no problems arise because of disease or medication.

IBD can be controlled, but not cured.

All patients with IBD will require a

City, CA www.catcitycat.com,

Long-term Prognosis

28 Desert Pet Companion

Rebecca Diaz, DVM is the owner of The

Cat Clinic, a feline-only veterinary clinic located at 67870 Vista Chino, Cathedral 760-325-3400

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How Do Pet Wounds Heal?

Robert Reed, DVM, MPA, MSES Medical Director, VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital

M

ost likely, anyone who owns a dog has at some point dealt with a skin injury to their pet, whether minor or severe, that has raised questions about how to help it heal. This discussion aims to shed light on the principles of wound healing and management that support the recovery from superficial trauma. When treating a skin wound, either from surgery or injury, veterinarians usually try to control conditions at the site of the insult through combinations of cleaning, disinfecting, suturing, and bandaging to optimize the healing environment. Obviously, the size and nature of the wound largely dictate the rate of recovery, but healing always follows the same general pattern.

Stages of Healing Inflammation

Immediately after an injury, the rupture of blood vessels initiates a cascade 30 Desert Pet Companion

of events that lead to bleeding, clotting, and the release of chemical mediators, causing the characteristic signs of inflammation: pain, redness, heat, and swelling. The inflammatory period lasts 3-5 days, but within an hour after injury, blood cells that target infection (neutrophils) begin to penetrate the area. After 2-3 days swelling subsides as the cell population shifts and other inflammatory cells (macrophages) begin to predominate. Their role is to clear debris and set the stage for synthesis of a matrix that serves as a scaffold for the addition of new tissue.

Tissue Proliferation and Repair

Repair of the wound begins 3-5 days after injury and usually continues for 2-3 weeks. Although activities in this stage of healing progress in a characteristic order, the individual sequences overlap to such an extent that they appear to occur simultane-

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Granulation

Epithelialization and scab formation

ously. During proliferation, macrophages combine with other cells and newly developing blood vessels to form granulation tissue. Granulation tissue appears moist and is bright red in color. People sometimes describe its appearance as “angry” or “proud”, but it serves several useful functions. It fills in wound depressions, creates a barrier against infection, promotes wound contraction, provides a surface over which new skin cells migrate, and contains fibroblasts, the cells that produce collagen for scar formation.

Wound contraction refers to the phenomenon where collagen, formed in fibers, becomes reorganized and oriented to pull the edges of a wound together as the fibers contract.

Epithelialization is the term used to

describe the formation of new skin over a bed of granulation tissue. Both processes together assist in wound closure. The advance of epithelial cells over a wound can begin in as little as 12 hours in sutured wounds, but in open wounds does not begin for 4-5 days because granulation must occur first. When an injury penetrates the skin’s full thickness, epithelialization proceeds only from the sides of the wound and may take weeks to complete, depending on the size of the wound. If a scab is present, new cells migrate underneath the scab, and leaving it there may actually benefit healing. Unfortunately, as many of us have observed, scars that result from epithelialization usually fail to regrow normal hair.

Remodeling

Remodeling

Epithelialization 32 Desert Pet Companion

Once wound closure is complete, remodeling begins. During this phase collagen, which appears smooth and

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light pink, becomes absorbed and reproduced in fibers aligned along lines of tension. The effect adds strength to the resulting scar, and the gain in strength may continue for years, although the resulting scar tissue will never be as strong as the tissue it replaced.

Managing Wounds Assessment and Closure

Veterinarians treat a multitude of wounds in dogs, including bite wounds, lacerations, burns, shearing wounds, abrasions, penetrating wounds from sticks or other sharp objects, and even gunshots. The severity and challenges to healing vary widely. Early assessment determines the degree of contamination and tissue damage associated with the injury. Subsequent decisions may lead to direct closure or toward management for later closure or natural healing. For example, for a relatively clean, recent wound, a vet-

erinarian might simply suture it closed after a thorough cleaning (Primary Closure). On the other hand, a wound contaminated by dirt, plant material, or road debris, may only become suitable for closure after ensuring contamination is controlled (Delayed Primary Closure), or only after granulation tissue develops (Secondary Closure).

While an obviously infected wound, such as an old bite wound, might not get sutured at all, as most vets would likely focus on the infection and allow the skin defect to close on its own (Closure by Second Intention).

Bandaging

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On first thought, bandages seem merely to protect wounds from additional injury and infection, but in overall wound management they provide a much greater function. Veterinarians use bandaging to create an environ-

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Product Spotlight

ment around the wound that maximizes healing. Initially, a bandage may be applied to draw debris and excess fluid away from a wound, then, later changed to a different type that maintains a constant moisture level by holding medication or fluid-retaining substrates against the wound. Some bandages use special dressings or additives intended to stimulate granulation or epithelialization, and management may involve manipulating such topical medications as healing progresses.

Consequently, proper management of bandages requires regular evaluation and frequent changes, sometimes daily.

Also, because removing and replacing bandages can be time-consuming and painful, most vets will suggest sedation or pain relief. Expenses can rise and patience can be tested, but the best aid to speeding recovery is careful attention. Bandages are not innocuous.

Leaving one in place for too long can promote infection as much as prevent it. Some dogs enjoy chewing, even eating them, and without proper application, bandages can shift or tighten

in ways that create pressure sores or restrict blood flow. Using a bandage carelessly, therefore, can create more problems than the wound itself.

Summary

As this discussion highlights, dogs unfortunately suffer a wide variety of wounds. Some heal quickly, and some take time, but all follow the same basic rules. Successfully managing a wound, especially a chronic one, requires a partnership between a pet owner, their veterinarian and veterinary technicians. Careful planning and cost management are key objectives, best achieved by good communication. Teamwork streamlines our pets’ recovery and minimizes our own anxiety. Understanding the mechanics and timeline of wound healing can help by fostering realistic expectations.

Robert Reed, DVM, MPA, MSES is the Medical Director at VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital located at 71-075 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, CA. 760346-6103. Visit www.vcahospitals.com/ rancho-mirage

PawFlex Bandages

Dr. Emmo’s Wound Care Wash

www.pawflex.com

and Spray Gel

PawFlex™ is a disposable, non-adhesive, fur friendly, super stretch all-in-one bandage that maintains a secure comfortable natural fit.

Available in several sizes and bandage types.

www.dremmos.com Dr. Emmo’s Wound Care Wash and Gel is a two-step process for handling minor wounds. It’s designed to be applied to rinse, remove, and eliminate bacteria in minor pet wounds. The Spray Gel is the second step in the pet wound care system. It’s an antimicrobial hydrogel solution to help protect the wound.

The products highlighted are spotlighted by DPC, not the article author.

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Seniors Offering Shelter A Vital Link in Creating a No Kill Coachella Valley

By Saleen Rowan, Loving All Animals

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hat is “Seniors Offering Shelter?� It is an S.O.S. call for our animal friends and a key element of Loving All Animals’ Foster Parent Program. Many animals wait for someone to bring them into a loving home environment. Regrettably all too often, these animals end up in shelters that are overcrowded and cannot handle the pet population. Animals that are not easily adopted often are euthanized to make room for other animals to enter the system.

This is unfortunate as many of these Spring 2015

animals would be perfect companions with a little love and training. Most of the animals in our program come to us from a shelter environment where they cannot get the personal attention needed in order for them to be placed into a forever home. Often times our foster animals have never been part of a loving home environment and do not know how to interact with people or other animals. Some may have been abused or left to fend for themselves on the streets or in the desert.

Animals bring so many benefits

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to our lives. Studies have shown that people who interact with animals are healthier and show less signs of stress.

Petting an animal can immediately lower your blood pressure and enhance your mood. It is almost impossible to remain upset when looking into the eyes of a loving animal. However, not everyone can make a lifetime commitment to an animal. This is where the foster program is mutually beneficial. The animal in the program gets a loving home where it can be trained and socialized, and the foster parent receives

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the joy of having an animal without making a lifetime commitment.

So why, specifically, the S.O.S. program? Loving All Animals Founder, Lindi Biggi, came up with the idea as a way to bring together seniors and animals to allow these benefits to be realized. Our valley seniors often have a lot of time on their hands and much love to give. This program allows them to give that love and receive back the benefits of having an animal companion. With fostering, the time commitment is determined by the foster parent. We have needs on an emergency basis (usually 1-3

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days); short term (up to two weeks) and long term. Seasonal visitors make excellent foster parents as well!

So now you are probably asking, “How can I help?” Reach out to Loving All Animals and let us know you are interested. One of our Foster Counselors will be in touch with you to help understand your lifestyle and determine the best animal to place in your care.

Through generous donations and grants, including those from H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation, the Coachella Valley Wellness Foundation and The Champions Volunteer Foundation, we will provide the necessary medical attention and supplies. We also provide a fantastic support network, including monthly events with your fellow foster parents.

Through our collective efforts we can reduce the number of animals that are homeless in our valley. All it takes is bringing one of these special animals into your home, providing the love and attention needed, and together we can be the S.O.S. for them, one animal at a time!

If you are interested in learning more about this program and how you can help, please contact Saleen Rowan, Loving All Animals S.O.S. Director at 1.760.843.2009.

Loving All Animals is a 501(c)(3) Palm Desert based non-profit animal welfare organization. For additional information about Loving All Animals, please visit www.lovingallanimals.org, email to info@lovingallanimals.org, or call (760) 834-7000.

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We provide veterinary services for every stage in your pet’s life, from her first shots to a lifetime of preventive care to keep her happy and healthy.

• Primary & Advanced Care • Preventive Care • Alternative Medicine We provide comprehensive veterinary care for your: Cats • Dogs • Pocket Pets Exotics • Rabbits • Reptiles

Pet Boarding & Grooming Available!

78-267 Highway 111, La Quinta (The Building In Front of Vons)

www.vcahospitals.com/all-creatures-ca

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Trap.

Neuter.

Release. (TNR) Update from Palm Springs Animal Shelter

By Dr. Shayda Ahkami Director of Shelter Operations and Veterinary Services, Palm Springs Animal Shelter

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n 2013, Friends of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter launched a community trap, neuter/spay and return (TNR) program to help curb the large population of feral cats living in Palm Springs. Very quickly, we discovered that many of the cats were not completely feral or wild. We estimate that nearly 30% of the cats who have come through our TNR program are actually socialized or semi-socialized stray or abandoned felines, cats who have at 38 Desert Pet Companion

one time been someone’s pet. Generations of offspring from these socialized pets, absent consistent human contact, become feral. This realization was important for us, reinforcing our suspicion that cat guardians (owners) in large numbers in our community are not only allowing their cats to roam, but they are not spaying and neutering them. We also soon learned that many well-meaning cat lovers were feeding community cats without fixing

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Photograph (left page) by Alicia Bailey

them. The steady supply of food allows unaltered, free roaming cats to breed more successfully. In our desert climate, healthy female cats can have up to four litters per year, averaging 4-8 kittens per litter. Simply put, people are responsible for the large number of free-roaming cats in our community.

And people are the solution.

We understand that managing community cats can be a very controversial topic. Some see these forgotten felines as a nuisance while others welcome and care for the colonies around them.

A recent national poll shows that 81% of Americans believe it is more humane to leave a stray cat outside to live out her life than to have her caught and killed. Unfortunately, many public pounds and shelters operate under the philosophy that if a cat cannot live in a human home, it is better to kill him or her. That philosophy is partly responsible for the 5,200 animals euthanized in the Coachella Valley last year. More than half of those killed were cats. This tragedy is not unique to our region.

Nationally, more than 70% of cats who enter public shelters are killed.

Friends of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, is taking the humane route with our Community Cat TNR program. A managed TNR program is the method where all the cats in a colony are trapped, neutered and then returned to their territory where caretakers provide them with regular food and shelter. In our program, we also vaccinate for rabies, perform a health check, treat internal and external parasites, address and clean wounds when needed. While the cats are under Spring 2015

Photograph (left page) by Tamara Hedges

anesthesia, we also “tip� or surgically remove the top of their left ear to make it easy to identify them as fixed, even from a distance. We rely on volunteers and resident cat colony caretakers to monitor the colonies to ensure the colony is both safe and healthy, and to quickly trap and fix any new unaltered cats who may appear in or around Trap.

Neuter.

Release.

the colony. Since 2013, our fledgling program has saved over 1,000 cats, in a large part due to the efforts of individual community members who have stepped up to help.

We are working hard to debunk the many myths about how to deal with community cat populations living in rural, suburban, and urban areas. The

TNR Fees $0 $25 $45 If you are a Palm Springs resident who qualifies

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If you are a Palm Springs resident

If you live outside of Palm Springs

For information, please call the Palm Springs Animal Shelter 760-416-5718, psanimalshelter.org, 4575 E. Mesquite Ave. Palm Springs, CA

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common practice by many uniformed animal control departments is to “catch and kill” colonies of community cats.

The thought is that eradicating them will make them go away. Catch and kill is not sustainable. Even more importantly, it is a cruel and ineffective practice. Feral cats are the same species as pet cats and are protected under animal cruelty laws in many states, California included.

Another common myth is that community cats are more likely to be ill.

Veterinary studies show that stray cats’ incidence of disease is low, and their infection rate—4%—is the same or lower than in house cats. Opponents of TNR are also quick to point out that feral cats are responsible for declines in various native species, particularly birds. Research has shown, however, that cats tend to prey more on mammals than birds, particularly rats and mice, and that degradation and loss of habitat is by far a greater threat to most native species.

The positive impact of our TNR program can already be seen. As our community becomes increasingly educated and aware of how to effectively manage free-roaming cats, and more cats are fixed, the number of kittens entering our shelter has declined. We hope to cast an even wider net this year, spaying and neutering even more cats than last year, helping to stop the senseless and tragic killing of cats in America’s public shelters.

If you would like to learn more about our program, or would like to volunteer to help, please contact me at (760) 4165718.

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Be Prepared!

How To Make Your Own Pet Emergency First Aid Kit

By Rebecca Bozarth, DVM VCA Valley Animal Medical Center

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or many people, having a pet is a lot like having a toddler. They make us laugh, they’re very active, they don’t always show good judgment, and we want to do everything we can to protect them and keep them healthy.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, our pets will manage to get into harm’s way. We hate to think it is possible that our pets could become injured or ill, or that an emergency could occur, but we must recognize it could happen. Luckily, there are some things you can do so that you’re better prepared to help your pet in case of an emergency. One of the best steps you can take is to put together a pet emergency first aid kit.

A pet emergency first aid kit should include 3 important components: 42 Desert Pet Companion

1. Information Emergency numbers: this might include the phone number of your veterinarian, the closest local emergency hospital, and directions to the emergency hospital. It seems silly, but sometimes in a crisis people have trouble remembering their own phone numbers, so this information list can be a life saver. Also, in case of accidental poisoning, you should have the phone number for the ASPCA pet poison control (1-800476-4435) Records: keep a copy of your pet’s medical record and a list of all medications and doses. If an emergency happens at night or on the weekend when your veterinary hospital is not open, this record can be vital and help avoid

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treatment complications at the ER. Photo and identification: in case your pet is lost, have photographs of your pet and any identification (microchip, tags, and tattoos) readily available.

Pet first aid book

2. Supplies A leash A muzzle or a strip of cloth that can be used as a muzzle. When a pet is injured, sometimes it is in so much pain it may bite the people that are trying to help it.

A pet carrier for smaller pets. (In a pinch, a pillow case can work as a kitty carrier.)

A towel Absorbent gauze Roll Gauze Ice pack Nail trimmer for pets Styptic powder for pets Rectal thermometer and petroleum jelly (a pet’s normal temperature is 100-102.5) Cling bandage Hydrogen peroxide Sterile saline solution Disposable gloves Adhesive tape Non-stick gauze pads Antiseptic wipes Non-prescription antibiotic ointment Tweezers Flashlight Needle nose pliers Corn syrup if your pet is diabetic or very small Elizabethan collar to fit your pet

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3. Medications Benadryl (ask your veterinarian for a dose for your pet) for allergic reactions Sedatives: if your pet becomes anxious during fireworks, thunderstorms or for other reasons, ask your veterinarian for a sedative or anti-anxiety medication to keep on hand.

Please DO NOT give your pet any medication that was not currently prescribed for your pet. This includes over the counter medications, human prescription medications, medications for other pets, or left over medications that your veterinarian previously prescribed for your pet. If you ever think you might want to give your pet a medication that was not currently prescribed for your pet by your veterinarian, just take a moment and call your local pet emergency hospital any time of the day or night. A phone call is quick, free, and it can save your pet’s life.

Some emergencies are obviously emergencies (broken bones, collapse, bleeding, seizure). Some are less obvious (straining to urinate, vomiting, lethargy). When in doubt, contact your veterinarian. If your veterinary hospital is not open, call your local pet emergency hospital. We are open 24 hours/ day 365 days per year and will do all that we can to help your pet return to good health.

VCA Valley Animal Medical Center is a 24-hour full service and emergency animal medical center. It is located at 46920 Jefferson Street, Indio, (760) 609-0833 www.vcavalleyemergency.com

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Spring Has Sprung:

Is Your Home Pet Safe?

By Valerie Masi Best Paw Forward

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Easter Pet Dangers

t’s finally spring! An ideal time to make sure your home is as pet safe as you want it to be. Why spring? Because, as you do all that spring cleaning—purging your old stuff, organizing what’s left, and opening up all those doors and windows—you’re changing the landscape for your pet. This is the time to make sure you haven’t introduced any new dangers or overlooked any old ones.

If you’ve significantly cleared out or reorganized a room, why not get down to your dog’s level and see if there are any possible dangers that you don’t notice when you’re standing up? Maybe some new electric cords are now

E

aster is fast approaching and with it comes several specific dangers for your pets that you need to watch out for.

That plastic Easter “grass” used in Easter baskets and small toys can cause a blockage in your pet’s intestines if eaten. Candy— especially chocolate—can be poisonous to your pet, so be sure to keep it out of reach. Finally, Easter lilies are particularly toxic to pets, so if you bring one into your home, place it far out of reach of your cat or dog.

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exposed that your dog or cat may be tempted to chew on. And how about your electrical outlets and power strips … are they still covered and inaccessible to your pet?

Look for windows or glass doors that have been covered all winter that might now allow your pet access to the outside. Are you unblocking a glass door or window that will be unfamiliar to your pet? Put colorful stickers on the doors at your pet’s eye level—and why not at yours, too?—so you’ll both be less likely to bonk your heads on that glass that wasn’t exposed before.

You might want to put stickers on your screened windows and doors, too, as they can also be hard to see sometimes.

For dogs, the best sticker colors to use are blue and yellow, because dogs see those colors best (they have just two “cones” or color receptors in their eyes that make them most sensitive to the colors blue and yellow).

Now that you’ve reorganized, are your trashcans still out of reach? If not, be sure to relocate them or secure the lids to prevent your dog or cat from rooting around in there!

Have you gotten rid of all your clutter? Common personal items left around the house—especially at pet level—can be a real hazard to your

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pet. Sunglasses, keys, medicines (like cough drops or aspirin) … they can be so tempting to your pet, yet so dangerous! And don’t overlook things like your shoes and purse, which so often end up on the floor. Put all your belongings away or at least out of reach of your pet.

As you do your actual spring cleaning, it’s best to keep your pet out of the room while you’re working. The debris you stir up—small items that may have been hiding under furniture, bits of yarn, floss or other string, and broken or sharp objects—can cause strangulation or a blockage if eaten by your pet.

Before you bring any new flowers or plants into your house, do your homework to make sure those plants are not poisonous to animals. Going online is the easiest way, but be sure to use good

Spring 2015

judgment and discretion regarding the source. Always start with the ASPCA web site at www.aspca.org. If you have any remaining concerns about whether something is poisonous to your pet, you can call the ASPCA’s animal poison control hotline 24 hours a day at 888 426-4435. Be aware, though, that there is a $65 consultation fee for hotline services, payable by credit card.

So, as you welcome spring this year—especially if you’re doing your spring cleaning and getting organized—take the opportunity to ensure that your pet is as safe as he or she can possibly be in your home. Life is full of pet hazards, but you don’t want your home to be one of them!

Valerie Masi, owner of Best Paw Forward can be reached at 760-885-9450 or visit www.bestpawforwarddogtraining.com.

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Desert Pet Companion 45

Furrst & Furrmost Pooch Palace & Sanctuary

by Geoff Winstead

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irst off, I will recommend that you not wear dark clothes when visiting Furrst & Furrmost Pooch Palace & Sanctuary. I made the mistake of wearing black jeans and after being greeted by over 20 very happy dogs of all shapes and sizes, ended up with a laundry project as soon as I got home.

Furrst & Furrmost is owned and operated by Bob Hersch, a former computer programmer with a penchant for volunteering for local causes. The thing about volunteering is that it sometimes leads you on a path to new opportunities and interests to the point you leave your old job and start a business.

Located on two-plus acres on a gravel road way past the windmills in Desert Hot Springs, Furrst & Furrmost is essentially a house with a huge back yard and a pool. Where most of the valley’s “dog spas” are meticulously detailed to make pet owners think to themselves, “I’d like to vacation here! It is better than the hotel I’m staying at…,” Bob’s place is more like being at your own home where the dog is free to roam the house 46 Desert Pet Companion

and yard, sleep where it wants and is comforted and cared for by a single person. The only time the dogs are put in individual kennels is when Bob has to leave the house and run errands.

Not every dog will like it here and Bob conducts “dog interviews” with potential boarders to make sure their temperament is compatible with the other boarders and permanent residents, of which there are about 14. Bob’s idea that dogs are pack animals is confirmed by the fact that they all do everything as a group. When you first come to the door, you have to enter a “caged” off entrance, where you are greeted, one by one, until the entire area is filled up by as many waggy tailed dogs, some barking their greeting, while others want to lick you or rub against you, can fit in the enclosure until Bob calls them all into the house, which surprisingly, given the amount of dogs, is very clean.

Bob gave us a tour of the place, which has various sizes of kennels in what would normally be two bedrooms and a no-furniture living room/dining room

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area with just a desk, a TV, and dog cushions, plus a nice kitchen with large bags of dog kibble. Outside, there is the “interview” area, which is an enclosed chain link space, a large grassy area that stretches out to a dirt field (all enclosed by fencing) that includes Bob’s own power windmill. There is also a shallow pool that is used when the weather gets warmer.

Furrst & Furrmost use to be a pet rescue and boarding facility. However, now it is a non-profit “pet sanctuary” with two “campuses” which board dogs at the “resort” in order to help pay for the permanent residents. The Desert Hot Springs facility has about 14 full time residents that were abandoned, rescued from Duroville, or somehow deemed unadoptable by other shelters.

“The reason we have changed from a rescue to a sanctuary is because we share our facility with Furrst and Furrmost Pooch Palace, an open dog boarding resort. Its boarding fees pay for almost all of the expenses of running the combined boarding and sanctuary facility,” says Bob. “When we were a rescue, the constant changing of dogs caused problems and tension with the Spring 2015

pack order. We decided to provide life long homes to our sanctuary dogs to reduce the stress and make both the boarders and our sanctuary dogs happier. We now have a great group of pooches that welcome and accept the boarders. It was a very good change in practice.”

The other facility is strictly a “sanctuary” located in Yucca Valley and is run by Stacey Lawler, who cares for the truly sick or infirm dogs who would have otherwise been euthanized due to their condition. (See that story on page 48) The dogs Stacey takes care of tend to be smaller dogs, as the DHS dogs (for the most part) are medium to large size dogs (including two Great Danes that are currently boarded there).

If your dog enjoys the company of other dogs and likes to run and play until it is exhausted, Furrst & Furrmost may be the place you want to leave your dog if you need to take a trip. The Yelp reviews are quite impressive with nothing but praise for Bob and how happy their dogs are when they come for another visit. You can visit Bob’s website at www.furrstandfurrmost.com or give him a call at 760-409-9226.

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Furrst & Furrmost Pet Sanctuary, Yucca Valley Text by Stacey Lawler, Photos courtesy of Furrst & Furrmost Pet Sanctuary Edited by Geoff Winstead

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his facility, located in Yucca Valley, is strictly for dogs that have been designated as unadoptable due to age, illness, abuse, disability or terminal conditions.

They are rescued by caretaker, Stacey Lawler or Bob Hersch, and are given the shelter, medical care, and love they need for the rest of their lives. They are not for adoption. Stacey has been kind enough to provide us with photos and stories of each of their residents.

We only have space to give you some of their stories, but you will be touched and maybe have thoughts toward donating to help them out.

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S

hadow was rescued out of a shelter in Orange County. Like Shane, he was born deformed. I saw his picture on Facebook. They had a plea out for anyone to help him because that day he was going to be put to sleep. He was only 2 months old. I reached out and arranged to get him transported here. I figured it would be nice for Shane to have a friend his own size. Shadow also had deep wounds from dragging around and demodex. He is still being treated to this day but is looking great now.

ockin Roxie was rescued out of a Los Angeles shelter, I first saw Roxi as I was scrolling my Facebook page and decided to follow her to see if anyone else would rescue her.

She was completely paralyzed and was deemed “unadoptable” or “rescue only.”

When her deadline was approaching and no other rescues wanted to help her I contacted a friend of mine who has pull rights at that shelter and told her I would take her. So we started

H

oney Bee was rescued from a shelter in Los Angeles. She too was “evidence in an abuse case.” She had been kicked by her owner for having an accident in the house. When I rescued Honey Bee, she was a mess with deep wounds on her legs from dragging herself around. She

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arranging for her pull and transport to the sanctuary.

Roxi was 8 years old when I rescued her. When I took her to our vet I was told that she would never walk again, so I got her wheels. Roxi has been with us for over a year. When she first arrived she had no use of her back legs and had no control of her bodily functions. Like I do with all of my paralyzed dogs Roxi receives physical and hydrotherapy on a daily basis to keep the blood flow to her limbs. After about two months of this, Roxi started to stand but would fall if she tried to walk. So we continued the therapy and put her in her wheels to help build the muscles in her back legs.

Today, Roxi is able to walk!

She is a little wobbly but continues to make progress. is a very happy-go-lucky girl that flies on her wheels. Because of the injuries she has no control of her bodily functions. I have to express her bladder 2 to 3 times per day.

Like all the other “wheelies” she gets physical and hydrotherapy on a daily basis.

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ne Eyed Jack was 8 weeks old when his eye was kicked out by an 8 year old boy. When first rescued, Jack was fearful of humans. With a lot of patience we managed to get him to learn to trust again. We gave a fundraiser for him one day and a really nice man just fell in love with Jack, and it appeared Jack really loved him, too. Since Jack was completely healthy, we made the decision to adopt him out. Jack remained in that home until his owner suddenly passed away. His family did not want Jack so they contacted us to see if we would take him back. When they brought Jack back 3 years later we had him checked out by our vet. It was discovered that he now had a severe heart condition. So Jack will remain here for whatever time he may have left.

T

eddy Bear was found wandering in the desert.

The lady who found him took him to the local shelter. He was not using his back leg, so they took x-rays. It was discovered it was a very old injury and nothing could be done to fix it. They found Teddy’s owners but they refused to pick him up. Because of Teddy’s leg, nobody wanted to adopt him.

When his “time was almost up” a friend contacted me to see if I would take him in. I went to the shelter and met Teddy. He was so sweet. I rescued him that day and took him home. Teddy didn’t use his back leg, but it didn’t hurt, so we opted not to have it taken off. www.DesertPetCompanion.com

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hane was born with severe scoliosis. When he was 2 months old he was dumped in the middle of the desert. The lady who found him contacted a friend that worked at my vet’s office. She was unsure what to do with him. Her friend knew about me and the sanctuary and gave her my number. I had her bring him to me. When I took in Shane he was a mess.

He had deep wounds from dragging himself around, but also a severe case of demodex (mange). It took about three months to clear up the demodex. He is now a happy, healthy boy that loves his little brother Shadow.

Desert Pet Companion 49

What’s With All Those Tests?

By Lillian Roberts, DVM Country Club Animal Clinic

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ust as in human medicine, it seems there is no end to the “tests” that are available for our pets in a medical setting. And as with humans, it can be scary, frustrating and expensive to have them done. This article will try to explain the basic what, where, why and how of medical testing in broad terms.

Typically, there are three basic reasons tests are run: Screening, Diagnosing, and Monitoring.

There are three basic tests we routinely run: blood and urine analysis (‘lab tests’), imaging, and disease-specific tests like fecals, biopsies and cultures.

(These last are also ‘lab tests’ in that they are run by the same laboratories, but tend to be referred to by name instead.)

Any of these categories might be run for any of the three reasons listed above.

SCREENING tests are just that – tests for conditions that might not be readily apparent otherwise. We, as human patients, are familiar with cholesterol testing, blood pressure, mammograms, and 50 Desert Pet Companion

various other tests. These are designed to catch common and usually serious conditions BEFORE they make the patient sick. Certain tests are typically run on infants; others are recommended as we age, targeting the population most at risk for the condition. This is very similar to what we do for pets.

DIAGNOSTIC tests, as the word implies, are tests that try to figure out why a pet is sick. MONITORING tests help us keep track of ongoing disease or the body’s response to medication.

Of course, pets age much more rapidly than their owners and are less able to tell us when they aren’t feeling well. As science has advanced and our pets have become increasingly important in our lives, good screening tests have become more available, reliable, and affordable – and therefore more routine.

Also, because no test is perfect, having a history of routine test results over time can give us insight into trends and help us interpret results in a previouslyhealthy pet that now comes to us with

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symptoms of illness.

Today, most veterinarians recommend fecal testing in puppies and kittens because they are most likely to carry intestinal parasites such as “worms” and protozoa, which can stunt their growth, cause diarrhea, and be transmitted to other pets. However, adult pets can also carry parasites, so the test might also be run on any pet considered at risk. This could be either a screening or a diagnostic test, depending on the patient.

Similarly, “routine” laboratory testing is often recommended in a young dog prior to it’s spay or neuter to rule out things like anemia or congenital kidney disease that might cause us to postpone elective surgery. But, if those tests are normal, they also serve as a baseline for future reference if the pet should become sick. After that, unless they have additional surgery or illness, in most cases they won’t have more tests until they are considered seniors. This is an example of a “screening” test where we are looking for early signs of illness or abnormality before the pet shows symptoms. Ironically, the exact same tests might be run on the exact same pet, should it come to the vet with a medical problem.

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So what does a “routine” blood test tell us?

I refer to them as “routine” because they are common, broad based, and sometimes a starting point. A typical panel consists of a CBC (complete blood count), a serum chemistry profile, T4 (thyroid screen) and UA (urinalysis).

This is sometimes also considered part of the “minimum data base” or “MDB,” because it gives us a general impression of how the major organs are functioning.

Here’s what each means to the vet: The CBC (complete blood count) reflects bone marrow function. It includes a differential count of the red blood cells (which carry oxygen from the lungs to the body), the blood platelets (which help in clotting), and five types of white blood cells, which fight infection and other causes of inflammation.

These numbers can tell us at a glance whether a pet is anemic, and if so, is the body trying to recover? Is there a significant infection? Is the platelet count sufficient to prevent abnormal bleeding?

And in rare cases, I’ve seen cases of leukemia, autoimmune disease, parasitism, and other uncommon conditions just in the CBC itself.

The serum chemistry profile is a broad-based list of tests that reflect function of the kidneys, liver and pancreas, and to a lesser extent, the adrenal glands. The specifics may vary depending on the lab and the specific panel ordered. Also, some tests in the profile are specific to the point of being diagnostic (tests for kidney failure in an old cat, for example), while others are merely suggestive (e.g., an elevated liver enzyme that hints at overactive adrenal glands).

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In some cases, the main take-home point is that we need more tests.

T4 is always either a screening or monitoring test in dogs. It is inexpensive to run, but not very specific. Low T4 can mean reduced thyroid function, but it can also reflect normal aging, or other disease processes that slow metabolism.

Additional testing is frequently recommended, and because false-positive results for low thyroid are so common, in many cases, senior dogs have additional tests run as part of the initial profile.

In cats, a high T4 IS considered diagnostic for hyperthyroidism. Thyroid disorders deserve an entire article all their own – perhaps in a future issue.

The UA (urinalysis) can tell us about kidney function problems long before blood tests do, and may predict a tendency to develop bladder stones and a few other problems as well.

So you can see how these tests may be helpful in a sick animal but also might help with early detection in an apparently healthy senior pet, as well as in the very young, or in a newly-acquired pet whose background is unknown. Many additional tests may be run on samples of blood, urine, and other bodily fluids, but these are typically restricted to situations where initial tests were abnormal or the patient’s condition is not explained by preliminary tests.

Unfortunately, despite ongoing efforts to develop them, we still don’t have good blood tests to help with heart, lung, or neurological problems. Disorders of these organs require other tests.

IMAGING tests include x-rays, ultrasound, and “advanced” tests such as CT and MRI. This list appears in order of Spring 2015

simplicity as well as expense!

Unlike most routine tests, X-rays have become somewhat more expensive in recent years due to the advent of digital x-ray. But they are still by far the easiest, fastest imaging tests available – in most cases available within minutes. Technological advances have steadily improved the detail we get with our x-rays, and it’s now routine to hand a copy to the owner of the pet, email them to other vets, or upload them to specialists in distant cities. Although they have been around for about a century, x-rays are still the best screening test for heart disease, arthritis, bone fractures, lung and bone cancer, bladder stones, intestinal foreign bodies and enlarged abdominal organs.

A typical x-ray study consists of two or three views, and is comparable in cost to a lab profile. For some reason, perhaps because the results are available so quickly, x-rays seem to be perceived as less valuable by the pet owner. While it’s true that the vet does not have to pay an outside agency (such as the reference lab) to run the test, the x-ray machine is the single most expensive piece of equipment in most veterinary practices. (Mine cost more than I paid for my house!) The only way to cover this expense is to charge the owners of the pets who benefit from its use.

Today, Ultrasound is readily available in many veterinary practices. If you’ve ever had a fetal sonogram, echocardiogram, liver ultrasound or know someone who has, you are at least somewhat familiar with the technology.

Clinically relevant since the mid-1980’s, this imaging technique involves bouncing sound waves off tissues and casting a

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visible image based on the speeds of the bounce. The same basic technology is used by fishermen and the Navy to “see” what’s in the water below. It only works for organs that contain a lot of water; ultrasound can’t image bone or peer through gas or air. This test is somewhat time-consuming, and often involves sedation and the shaving of hair.

Among the readily-available tests, ultrasound is the best non-invasive way to detect and monitor many heart conditions, and is very useful in early detection (and ongoing monitoring) of abdominal tumors and various disorders of the liver, adrenal glands, pancreas, and urinary tract. It may also be used when serious intestinal disease is suspected, for confirmation prior to surgery.

In most cases, this test is reserved for times when the clinician is concerned about a specific disorder. But increasingly, it is becoming a screening test – particularly in senior pets or certain breeds that are known to have high rates of certain diseases. Technology allows instant uploading of images to specialists, so that the studies may be read much faster than those same specialists could actually perform the ultrasound themselves. And streamlining has enabled good veterinary technicians to 54 Desert Pet Companion

learn to perform the studies, so the veterinarian’s time is limited to reading the report and relating it to the overall clinical picture to make a recommendation to the pets’ owner.

More advanced imaging tests, such as CT and MRI, are generally restricted to specialty centers. That’s because these machines are very expensive and can require a whole facility, or at least a specially-prepared room, and speciallytrained technicians to operate them. As time goes by, they are becoming more available, less expensive, and easier to use. There may be a day, not far off, when CT (at least) is nearly as routine as an x-ray is now! In fact, at least two companies already offer a unit that performs digital x-ray, CT and fluoroscopy in a machine that takes up about the same space as the typical digital x-ray machine. Computerized 3D interpretation makes the results easier to read than ever before, and as speed improves, some studies can be performed with only sedation (as opposed to the general anesthesia that has been required to date)! Additionally, new lab tests are being developed almost monthly, and there is now a Smartphone app that makes a stethoscope seem quaint.

But as technology advances, we still need to remember that much depends on the basic physical exam – body weight changes, temperature, medical history and physical changes are as important as ever! And though underappreciated, these remain the most basic “tests” of all.

Dr. Lillian Roberts, DVM, is the owner of Country Club Animal Clinic which is located at 36869 Cook Street, in Palm Desert.

760-776-7555 www.countryclubdvm.com.

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RATTLESNAKES! I

n mid-February, Dave walked his dog Zippy on their normal hiking trail, which is a sandcovered road on the outskirts of Palm Springs.

Zippy started sniffing and pawing at the sand right where he and Dave had just walked. Dave was alarmed to find that Zippy had uncovered the three-foot rattlesnake you see in this photo! Luckily for Dave and Zippy (but not for the poor snake), the reptile had recently been run over and was quite dead. But Dave and Zippy’s near-snake experience reinforces the importance of rattlesnake awareness for all pet owners, especially with spring right around the corner.  Spring is the breeding season for rattlesnakes. It is also their time of greatest activity. Their drive to reproduce and feed can cause aggressive behavior. Rattlesnake bites occur frequently during this time of year and well into the summer. Here in the desert, bites can occur year round.  A dead rattlesnake can still inject venom for an hour or more by reflex action.  Rattlesnake bite wounds vary from dry (no venom injected) to full envenomation. The venom contains proteins that disrupt the pet’s blood clotting abilities and damages blood vessels.  Immediate veterinary attention is required with all bites, no matter how negligible they seem. The sooner treatment is started, the more effective it will be. Snakes carry a large amount of bacteria in their mouths.

Even dry bites can become infected and are painful. The location of the bite, size of the pet, differences in venom, and how much venom is injected all determine the severity of symptoms.  Treatment for rattlesnake bites consists

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Rattlesnake Classes

of intravenous fluids to prevent circulatory collapse, antibiotics, pain medication and antivenin. Antivenin contains antibodies to multiple rattlesnake venoms. This helps the pet fight the effects of the venom.

Antivenin is very expensive, often costing more than $700.00 per vial, but frequently decreases severity of symptoms and length of hospital stay. (Check with your veterinarian to see if they carry antivenin.)

So, what can you do to protect your pet? The best way to do this is to avoid encounters between the pet and the snake. Safe practices include:  Stick to cleared areas or open paths when hiking.  Keep your dog on a leash at all times.  Don’t let your dog explore holes, logs, or dig under rocks.  Hike during the day instead of early morning or evening.  Cats are just better left indoors at all times. If you let your cat outside, only do so during the day.

If you live in a rural area or an area with a high number of rattlers, you may want to consider the rattlesnake vaccine, developed ten years ago by Red Rock Biologics. This vaccine is for dogs only and is made specifically for the venom of the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, though it reportedly cross-protects against multiple species of other rattlesnakes.

Two vaccines, each given a month apart, are initially required to help the dog develop antibodies against venom, should it be bitten. Protection typically lasts for at least 6 months and possibly even up to a year. The protection against developing life-threatening symptoms seems to vary significantly.

Consulting with your veterinarian as to their experience with the vaccine and whether or not they recommend it is advisable. Remember, even vaccinated dogs require immediate medical attention if bitten.

Source: This article originally ran in DPC, Summer 2011, to read the entire article, please visit our website’s archival issues.

It’s that time of year again; does your dog know to avoid snakes?

Rattlesnake avoidance training and classes are held at several locations in the Valley, starting in March. Please check our Facebook site for additional classes. Reservations are usually required and schedules are subject to change.

Rattlesnake Aversion/Avoidance Classes:

Saturday, March 7: VCA All Creatures Animal Hospital/Valley Animal Medical Center & Emergency Hospital, call 760-564-1154 or 760-609-0833 Sunday, March 8: Village Park Animal Hospital, call 760-564-3833 Sunday, March 8: VCA Yucca Valley/29 Palms, call 760-365-0641 Sunday, March 15th: VCA Rancho Mirage/Desert Animal Hospital, to register call 760-346-6103 56 Desert Pet Companion

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2015

tickets on sale now

featuring canine couture designer Lola Teigland cocktail reception, silent auction and fashion show

MARCH 22, 2015 Benefiting the Humane Society of the Desert, a non-profit, no-kill animal sanctuary.

FOR TICKETS: FASHIONWEEKELPASEO.COM OR 888-596-1027

SUNDAY, MARCH 22, 2015 Ruth Hardy Park, Palm Springs Benefiting cancer research, treatment and education at City of Hope

Enter our 5K Doggie Division!

PHL-23395 SL

Start times of: Men’s 5K ¬ 7:30 a.m.

Women’s 5K ¬ 8:15 a.m.

Questions? Please call (760) 779-1801 Register Online at www.runningwild4hope.org

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Rotary Club of La Quinta presents

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2015

Strut Your Mutt Dog Show and Expo

M

Part of La Quinta Rotary’s philanthropic endeavors

arch 21st celebrates everything great about canines. The place: La Quinta Community Park, 77865 Avenida Montezuma. For a barking good time you can see a pet parade, watch the judging of the fanciful dog show, learn dog skills and training techniques, participate in Police K-9 and Bloodhound demonstrations, hang in the Beer Garden, visit vendors and grab some raffle prizes.

This event, hosted by the Rotary Club of La Quinta, is not just fun for the entire family; it’s a day of advocacy for animals as well as a charity event to support the club’s many projects in the Coachella Valley, which includes the La Quinta High School scholarship program.

Admission is free to the public due to the generosity of major sponsors: Chevrolet Cadillac of La Quinta, I-10 Toyota, Torre Nissan, The Berger

Foundation, Rabobank, Security Bank, Old Town La Quinta, Village Park Animal Hospital, Yamaha Golf Carts, JFK Hospital, La Quinta Chamber, KIX Hot Country 92.1 and Desert Recreation District. Pet show entry fees, vendor applications and public support also help to reach the club’s fundraising goals.

There are more than 10 categories to enter your dog in. Last year, Sophie, a petite Maltese, was styled by her owner and won “Best Bling” with an assortment of dog friendly jewelry and sparkle.

This year’s judging panel includes radio host “Bulldog” Bill Feingold (94.3KNEWS), KESQ TV reporter Bianca Rae (KESQ Ch 3 / CBS Ch 2) and La Quinta Mayor, Linda Evans.

Help the “Most Adorable” contestant find a forever home. Give the gift of love—Adopt a rescue dog!

CATEGORIES

1. Most Adorable Adoptable Dog

6. Best Dressed

2. Best Tail Wag

7. Most Handsome Male

3. Best Rescued Dog Story

8. Prettiest Female

4. Best Service Dog

9. Best in Show Parade

5. Musical Sitting

Information as of press time, subject to change

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COLD NOSE WARM HEART “Pet Boutique and Spa” 77-920 Country Club Drive, Suite 6-8 Palm Desert (THIS LOCATION ONLY)

In the EoS Gym (formerly Gold’s Gym) Shopping Center

(760) 345-8494

www.coldnosewarmheartspa.com DOG & CAT FOOD SPECIAL

$2 OFF any bag up to 9 lbs $3 OFF any bag 10-20 lbs $4 OFF any bag 21 lbs+ Must present coupon at time of purchase, not good with any other CNWH offers, one coupon per customer EXP 5/15/15 COUNTRY CLUB LOCATION ONLY

Natural Balance $2 OFF any bag up to 9 lbs $4 OFF any bag 10-20 lbs $6 OFF any bag 21 lbs+ Must present coupon at time of purchase, not good with any other CNWH offers, one coupon per customer EXP 5/15/15 COUNTRY CLUB LOCATION ONLY

Stella and Chewy’s

Meals, Mixers and Frozen - any one bag

20% OFF

Must present coupon at time of purchase, not good with any other CNWH offers, one coupon per customer EXP 5/15/15 COUNTRY CLUB LOCATION ONLY

$6 OFF

Any Full Groom

A full groom is a complete haircut for dog or cat (body, face, feet and tail) Must present coupon at time of purchase, not good with any other CNWH offers, one coupon per customer EXP 5/15/15 COUNTRY CLUB LOCATION ONLY

Blue Wilderness

“Naturally Fresh” Cat Litter

FREE (a $9.99 value) with purchase of any Blue Cat Food bag

Must present coupon at time of purchase, not good with any other PSW offers, one coupon per customer EXP 5/15/15 COUNTRY CLUB LOCATION ONLY

First Mate or Kasiks A Premium Canadian Product

$2 OFF any 5 lb bag $5 OFF any 25 lb bag Must present coupon at time of purchase, not good with any other CNWH offers, one coupon per customer EXP 5/15/15 COUNTRY CLUB LOCATION ONLY