Pet Connection December / January Issue

Proudly

Made in Canada

Canada’s Natural Health Magazine for Pets

DECEMBER 2022-JANUARY 2023

The Sport of Scent Detection

Powerhouse

EGGS!

VITAMIN E Liquid vs Powder

TREASURE HUNT 2023!

12 Days of Treats

Safe Toys for Puppies

$4.95 Display until January 31, 2023

The Importance of Puppy Food

Real Food for Cats & Dogs ORDER DIRECT and SAVE!

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

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This Christmas, give the gift of good health.

Add years to their life and life to their years.

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information@amorepetfoods.com 4540 Hastings Street, Burnaby, BC www.amorepetfoods.com

GETTING THE SCOOP ON CANADA’S PET CULTURE VOLUME 15 • ISSUE 5 • DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Inside:

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The Importance of Puppy Food

by Jessika Harding

14

The Powerhouse Nutritious Egg!

by Lucy Jabrayan

18

Vitamin E Liquid vs Powder

by Marta Kasper

22

The Sport of Scent Detection

by Karin Apfel

26

Safe Toys for Puppies

River

by Dr. Phyllis DeGioia

38

Toxic Disinfectants

by Dr’s Jacqueline Brister, & Sharon M. Gwaltney-Brant

46

Pet Insurance Fact Sheet

by Dr. Frances Wilkerson

BONUS Treasure Hunt!

12 Days of Treats!

Word Jumble!

32 34 41

IN EVERY ISSUE Mark Your Calendars!

Buffy Sundog

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Letter from the Publisher

45

Cross Canada Photo Contest

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Cover Photo: Finnegan and Smudge, Sidney, BC Photo Courtesy of Michael Richmond www.michaelrichmondphotography.ca

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

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Manitoba Animal Alliance

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Letter from the Publisher PUBLISHER Leslie Kennedy Tel: 604.220.5346 info@petconnection.ca www.petconnection.ca GRAPHIC DESIGN Britton Design Services CONTRIBUTORS Karin Apfel Dr. Jacqueline Brister Phyllis DeGioia Dr. Sharon M. Gwaltney-Brant Jessika Harding Lucy Jabrayan Marta Kaspar Dr. Frances Wilkerson

Pet Connection is published 6 times a year. Founded in 2008.

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DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Pet Connection 2443 Beacon Avenue Sidney, BC V8L 1X7 Pet Connection does not disclose its subscribers list to anyone.

PET CONNECTION does not assume responsibility for any claims made by its advertisers, or for any information dispensed. The articles and information presented are for information only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Publisher. Permission to reproduce any part of this publication must be approved by the publisher. All pictures, articles or emails sent in become the property of Pet Connection.

All Rights Reserved © 2022 - PET CONNECTION Pet Connection is located on the traditional territories of the WSÁNEĆ People, on whose traditional territories, we live and work.

PEFC 4

’Tis the Season!

To Give and Give Again!

If you are able to give, please give to help the animals. This year we are donating again for the Northern Dogs. Our heart breaks every winter when we think of all the animals left out in the cold.

This year we are spotlighting the Manitoba Animal Alliance, based out of Winnipeg. An amazing volunteer run organization with a far reach across Manitoba and beyond. See page 52 and visit their website. www.manitobaanimalalliance.com Please remember to bring your pets inside. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, once the temperature falls below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, (0 Celsius), pets should be kept inside to keep them safe from frostbite and hypothermia. Yes, dogs with thick double layered coats are more cold-tolerant, but please also consider the wind chill and dampness of the area, as well as the age and health of your pet.

Happy Holidays to all, - Leslie Kennedy Publisher

“He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog.

You are his life, his love, his leader.

He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart.

You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion.”

- Unknown

OUR MISSION: To save innocent companion animals from any type of harm.

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DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Contributors

Karin Apfel, I have been passionate about dogs and training for over 30 years and have been involved in a wide variety of sports from IGP (Schutzhund), herding, obedience and rally to the adrenaline of flyball and agility. Most recently, I have been deeply involved in the development of the sport of detection in Canada, as both a competitor and President of the Sporting Detection Dogs Association. www.sportingdetectiondogs.ca

Dr. Jacqueline Brister, DVM, is a medical writer with a background in clinical veterinary medicine and research. She received her veterinary medicine degree in 2010 and has been writing and interacting with patients and clinicians ever since. She has a passion for science, learning, and the written word. She seeks to improve the lives of patients through education, in both consumers and doctors, as well as helping bring valuable drugs to market. She has furthered her writing experience and education by obtaining the Essential Skills Certificate through the American Medical Writers Association as well as taking courses in regulatory medical writing. Dr. Brister's services include editing, medical communication for the consumer, and medical writing for clinical education.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Phyllis DeGioia, Veterinary Partner Editor, Phyllis DeGioia, who passes out at the sight of blood (she can't even watch needles pierce skin on TV) and thus could not be a veterinarian, is the editor of Veterinary Partner and VetzInsight, VIN's client education blog. She also uses her highly scientific degree in English from UC Irvine to write for the VIN News Service. Over the years she has written and edited material for numerous pet-related companies and client education material for VIN. Phyllis fields panicky "What do I do?" phone calls from friends with the same practical response: "I think you should go to the vet."

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Dr. Sharon M. Gwaltney-Brant, DVM, PhD, DABT, DABVT, has two board certifications in toxicology from the American Board of Veterinary Toxicology and American Board of Toxicology, plus a PhD in veterinary pathology. In addition to being a consultant for VIN, she also is an adjunct faculty member at the College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, and the department of pathology at the University of Florida. She has also been in private practice, was the medical director of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, and did a post-doctorate at the National Animal Disease Center.

Jessika Harding, I am a huge animal lover and a pet nutrition enthusiast with a background in companion animal nutrition (canine and feline) and biotechnology. From growing up with dogs to working with my local shelter and pet store, animals have always been a significant part of my life. I am currently owned by two fantastic German Shorthaired Pointers - Artemis and Apolla, they keep me on my toes and wouldn’t have it any other way. www.ironwillrawdogfood.com

Lucy Jabrayan, is the owner and founder of Thrive4life Holistic Pet Food, she educates and empowers pet guardians to turn to natural alternatives and modalities to better help their pets in their health & wellness journey. Lucy has an extensive background in the nutrition and supplement industry for well over a decade, as she takes her broad knowledge to educate many pet guardians by conducting health seminars, contributing to numerous publications and making segment appearances in television. To learn more visit, www.thrive4lifepetfood.com

Dr. Frances Wilkerson, DVM, Dr. Wilkerson has practiced veterinary medicine since 1992. After graduating from the University Of Wisconsin School Of Veterinary Medicine, she attended Cornell University in New York for my postgraduate clinical internship in small animal medicine and surgery. She has practiced in many settings including: dog and cat medicine, exotic animal medicine, emergency medicine, wildlife medicine, and zoo medicine. She has a special interest in Exotic Animal Emergency Medicine and is an American Red Cross Authorized instructor for Pet CPR and First Aid. She has also enrolled as a Veterinary Medical Officer for the National Animal Health Emergency Response Corps (NAHERC). The NAHERC responds to natural disasters and exotic disease outbreaks that effect livestock, poultry, companion animals, and wildlife.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Marta Kaspar holds a master’s degree in chemistry from the University of Pardubice in the Czech Republic. She is a research scientist, and a formulation and analytical chemist in both industrial and academic fields. Marta became interested in feline nutrition when her cats developed health problems. When she decided to prepare their food herself, the effect of the homemade raw meat diet on her cats was so impressive that she created the line of Alnutrin® supplements to help others transition their cats to better diets.

You can find her at www.knowwhatyoufeed.com.

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The Importance of Puppy Food

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

By Jessika Harding

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G

ood nutrition is the foundation of a long healthy life for both human and animals. It is important to understand that the foods we choose to feed our dog can make a significant impact on their wellbeing and livelihood. Whether an energetic puppy or a mellow middle-aged adult dog, the food they are offered matters – dogs require nutrition that is tailored to specific life stages just like other mammals.

One of the biggest questions is “Why”? Why do puppies thrive when eating a diet appropriate for their specific life stage. The reality is, the amount of specific nutrients required by puppies is different than adult dogs.

Puppy food should be tailored to support the rapid growth experienced in the first year of life - biological needs during this time translate into a higher requirement for calories, protein, fat, and minerals.

During the growth phase, small breeds rapidly grow to 20 times their birth weight while large breeds grow to 100 times their birth rate! It is essential that their body is supported optimally during this time. Adult dogs on

the other hand have diets tailored to adult maintenance and often take into consideration dental and weight management goals.

The AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) recognizes two different life stages for dogs – Adult Maintenance, and Growth & Reproduction.

Dog food can be labelled for more than one life stage.

When this occurs, the nutritional adequacy statement will use “All Life Stages” which means the food has been formulated to meet the needs of the most demanding life stage – Growth & Reproduction.

Let’s investigate some of the major difference between food formulated for Growth & Development vs Adult Maintenance starting with calories aka energy.

Calories Puppies bodies must work harder to regulate their body temperature than adult dogs do, they also require more calories per pound of body weight than adults. They

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DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Puppies are burning more calories just trying to keep warm, in addition to the increased amount of activity puppies typically do....

The 10 essential amino acids for puppies and dogs are: • Arginine • Histidine

Protein

• Isoleucine

Next we have protein, a source of amino acids. The protein requirement of growing puppies is higher than for adult dogs. In addition to normal maintenance requirements, growing puppies need more protein to build the new tissues associated with the growing process. With sufficient precursors, many amino acids needed for healthy development can be manufactured within the body - there are 10 essential amino acids that are not and must be provided through a complete and balanced diet.

• Leucine • Lysine • Methionine • Phenylalanine • Threonine • Tryptophan • Valine

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

are burning more calories just trying to keep warm, in addition to the increased amount of activity puppies typically do when compared to the average middle-aged dog. When formulating a diet for puppies, there is a delicate balance between creating a food that provides enough calories and enough nutrients.

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DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Good nutrition is the foundation of a long healthy life for both human and animals.

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problematic for growing puppies, especially for large and giant breeds. Unlike adult dogs, puppies cannot regulate how much dietary calcium they absorb from the intestinal tract, and this can cause skeletal malformations if they absorb too much. Phosphorus is also used by the body as a structural component in the skeleton, DNA, RNA and various other phospholipids. When improper amounts of both minerals are consumed, the overall growth of the puppy is compromised.

Fat Dietary fat is extremely calorie-dense at approximately 9 kcal per gram. Fat is the primary source of energy (calories) in dog food and plays a critical role in growth and reproduction. It plays a key role in the absorption and digestion of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K – in order to be fully utilized within the body, enough dietary fat must be consumed.

Feeding a diet that is appropriate for the puppy’s life stage – that is made from superior ingredients and provides balanced nutrition can build a strong and healthy foundation for the adult dog they will become.

Long chain poly unsaturated fatty acids are of particular importance, most specifically DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) as it plays a vital role in brain and retinal development in young animals and the brain itself is composed of 50% fat with DHA making up 10-20% of this. Studies have shown that supplemental DHA after weaning improves the cognitive development and trainability of puppies when compared to puppies not supplemented with DHA.

Minerals Minerals are divided into two groups – macro and micro minerals. Macro minerals are required in larger quantities and micro minerals are required in trace amounts. The two macro minerals of greatest concern with growing puppies are calcium and phosphorus as they are necessary for the formation and maintenance of the skeleton. Excess calcium intake can be extremely

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The minimum protein requirement set by AAFCO on a dry matter basis for adult maintenance is 18% whereas the minimum protein amount for puppies is 22%. Most raw food will exceed these values easily.

In addition to choosing a properly formulated diet that takes these differences into consideration, the duration of feeding is also very important. While there are no hard and fast rules, the general recommendations are to keep small breed puppies on puppy food for 10 to 12 months, medium breed puppies on puppy food for 12-14 months and large/giant breeds on puppy food for 16-24 months.

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The Powerhouse Nutritious Egg!

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

By Lucy Jabrayan

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Eggs are one of nature’s most wonderful little power houses of nutrition, both for us and our beloved pets.

Nutrition:

Source:

Whether it be chicken, quail or even duck, eggs are packed full of bioavailable nutrition, such as;

Now that being said, not all eggs are created equal, and I would know, being a farmer myself. When you buy eggs that are from say, chickens who are kept indoors 24/7, caged and stressed, you better believe that will transfer to the egg, same goes with feed. If the chickens are fed a GMO and pesticide laden feed, then the pesticides will make its way to the egg.

• Great source of complete protein • Source of omega-3 (varies per feed) • Phosphatidylserine • P.e.a. (Palmitoylethanolamide) • Choline • Antioxidants lutein & zeaxanthin • One of very few food sources of vitamin D • Vitamins A and E • Source of good lipids/cholesterol • Minerals • NEM (Natural Eggshell Membrane) And so much more!

You might notice and recognize some of these nutrients as supplements, and you would be absolutely correctthat’s how nutrient dense eggs are!

Similarly with us, a pregnant woman has to be very mindful the moment she finds out that she is pregnant, what products, herbs, and even essential oils she can topically use or not, because it will make its way to the baby.

You’re going to want to look for eggs that came from ‘happy’ chickens, who are free to roam and range, and this is where most people I find don’t ask- but ask the farmer what they feed the birds, whether its chickens, quail, or duck and geese- it will make all the difference in the world.

Everyone advertises ‘Farm Fresh Eggs’, and yes of course, every egg comes from a farm (there are no city eggs), but how the chickens are raised, and what they are raised on should be on every egg buyers’ mind.

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DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

• High in B-vitamins

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DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

How to feed eggs to your pets:

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Now, You can feed eggs to your pets a number of ways, the best way of course is raw, but if your pet can’t tolerate raw eggs, then the next method is to lightly cook it, where the egg is still a bit liquid or raw-like, not solid all the way. Poaching is also a good way to feed eggs to your dogs and cats. Make sure though, that however you do feed eggs, to keep the yolk whole, as that is the best way to keep the nutrients intact, scrambling will alter and deteriorate the nutrient profile of the egg.

Also, be sure to be mindful of calories, when you do

treat your pet to a fresh egg, be sure to cut back on their regular food a bit, as to not overfeed. The average range to feed your pet an egg is 1-3x/week, of course this is a guideline, and you should ultimately do what works best for your pet.

Author’s tip: Don’t forget about the shells!

They are packed with bioavailable minerals and other nutritious components you won’t want your pet to miss out on!

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Pando Stepanis is the Training Director for one of the largest security firms in Canada, the Training Director of Saugeen Schutzhund Club of Ontario and Brand Ambassador of AgapiK9 Inc. located in Amaranth, Ontario.

Pando began his journey back in the early 1980s helping pet owners with behaviour concerns and that passion for dogs quickly led to the formation of Olympus Security & Investigations. His love of dogs lead to the expansion of the Olympus K9 Detection Services division and it grew over the last 42 years to become one of the top three largest K9 Security providers in Canada.

Olympus had become the “go-to” company for consultations regarding K9 service protocols to other firms within the nuclear industry, mining industry, entertainment industry and high-profile government events. As Master Trainer, Pando is one of the only civilians in Canada to reach this level in a North American recognized police association (NAPCH). Pando is licensed under the Ministry of Natural Resources, Explosives division, Health Canada Re-Controlled Substances and holds a Magazine license, as well as being a recognized K9 behaviour expert in the Court of Justice.

Staying within the family, Pando’s daughter Patty was the youngest person at age 13 to title a dog in the sport of Schutzhund. Patty and son in-law Matt own and operate AgapiK9 Inc., now the industry leader in providing canine training and education for dog owners alike across Canada. AgapiK9 is the largest kennel training facility of its kind and is the official co-op placement for ABC College (Animal Behaviour College), as well as host to many inspiring trainers through their sought-after Academy for Trainers program.

AgapiK9 is a long-time distributor of Omega Alpha’s products and when Pando or AgapiK9 is training new handlers and their dogs, they often bring the Omega Alpha® pet supplement, Probiotic 8 Plus™ for the dogs.

Years ago Pando noticed that some dogs under stress to perform could become dehydrated (even when water is available) and would often lead to diarrhea. So now he teaches gut prevention, to help with hydration and behaviour. Dogs love to work and learn better when we set them up for success, and it starts with a healthy gut!

Trusted Since 1992 17

VITAMIN E: Liquid vs. Powder

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

By Marta Kasper

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I

feed my kitties ground raw cat food and add supplements. From what I have researched, liquid vitamin E is more easily assimilated into the body than the dry form. I was wondering why you suggest it in dry form in “Feline Nutrition’s Easy Homemade Cat Food Recipe?”

Most vitamin E compounds in their raw state are oils, except vitamin E succinate which is a powder. All types need to be diluted to much lower concentrations before they are sold to general public. The most common

concentrations are 400IU, 200IU or 100IU per capsule or softgel. The inert substance used for dilution is called the carrier. It can be either a powder when the final product is sold dry in capsules, or an oil when the final product is a liquid in softgels. Since it is unlikely that the carrier would significantly influence absorption, it makes no difference whether you chose a liquid or powder.

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First, some background. While the term vitamin E sounds pretty straightforward, it is actually a quite complicated and often confusing subject. First of all, it is important to realize that it is not one single substance, but a group of fat soluble compounds known as the tocopherols. This includes alpha-, beta-, gamma- and delta-tocopherols and tocotrienols. In addition, it is not alone, as it has two relatives called vitamin E acetate and vitamin E succinate.

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DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Synthetic or Natural?

Vitamin E is available in both natural and synthetic forms. It is easy to distinguish between the two. Fully synthetic vitamins have the prefix “dl-” in their names, while all-natural products have the “d-” prefix. For example, “d-alpha-tocopherol” would be a natural form of vitamin E and “dl-tocopheryl acetate” would be a synthetic product.

What is IU? Vitamin E content is listed on labels in international units. An international unit, abbreviated IU, is a unit of measurement for an amount of a substance based on its biological activity. Every type of vitamin E has a different biological activity. For that reason, different conversion factors need to be used when translating between milligrams and IUs, even between synthetic or natural types of the same compound.

How Much is Too Much?

Vitamin E has no known acute toxicity in cats.³

However, according to studies done in humans, it may be harmful if used in excess over a long period.⁴ According to AAFCO, NRC or CVMA guidelines, the allowance for an adult cat is from 1 to 3 IU per day.⁵

Where Does Natural Vitamin E Come From?

Most natural forms are derived from vegetable oils, mostly soybean oil. By vegetable oils I mean cold-pressed oils, not the ones we buy in a supermarket. Most of those don’t have much vitamin E left after their refinement and purification.

Note: Feline Nutrition provides feline health and nutrition information as a public service. Diagnosis and treatment of specific conditions should always be in consultation with your own veterinarian. Feline Nutrition disclaims all warranties and liability related to the veterinary advice and information provided on this site.

References 1. Yvonne M. Jeanes, Wendy L. Hall, Susan Ellard, Elizabeth Lee and John K. Lodge, "The Absorption of Vitamin E is Influenced by the Amount of Fat in a Meal and the Food Matrix," British Journal of Nutrition, no. 92, 2004, 575-579.

2. Yvonne M. Jeanes and others, "The Absorption of Vitamin E is Influenced by the Amount of Fat in a Meal and the Food Matrix."

3. US National Research Council Ad Hoc Committee on Dog and Cat Nutrition, Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats, National Academies Press, 2006, 209-210.

4. Eva Lonn, MD, et. al., "Effects of Long-term Vitamin E Supplementation on Cardiovascular Events and Cancer," Journal of the American Medical Association 293, no. 11, 2005, 1138-1347.

5. Nutrient Allowances for Adult Maintenance per 100 kcal ME (metabolizable energy), compiled by the author from: AAFCO, Association of American Feed Control Officials, 1999 publication; NRC, National Research Council 2006 publication; and CVMA, Canadian Veterinary Medical Association 1993 publication. The recommendations from AAFCO, NRC and CVMA are between 0.75 IU to 2 IU per 100 kcal ME, and an average cat consumes anywhere from 120 to 160 kcal ME/day, depending on its size and other factors.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

What has been shown to make a difference in absorption is whether or not it is taken with fat-containing food.

When taken by itself on an empty stomach or with water only, it is not absorbed well.¹ Most forms require some fat to be present to be absorbed properly.² Vitamin E supplements added to raw cat food would not have this problem, as adequate amounts of fat are present for optimum absorption.

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The Sport of Scent Detection

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

By Karin Apfel

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I have introduced 1000's of dogs of various breeds to the sport of detection and have competed with four of my own dogs. Currently, I am campaigning my rescue Rottweiler, 5-year-old Kilo, at the Elite Level, after achieving his MACH at age 3.

Kilo recently titled in Elite with 3 perfect scores.

Photo Credit: Ordinary Moments Photography

S

porting Detection is the fun and competitive version of scent detection such as for narcotics, termites or explosives, and is also known as “nosework”. SDDA competitions use legal scents that are easily purchased and stored by the average person. The dog must locate any and all hidden target scents within a designated area and alert the handler to the location. It is a true partnership sport in which both ends of the leash must rely on one another.

All Dogs Can Play!!

All breeds, ages, sizes and ability of dogs are welcome.

Trial searches are done by one dog and handler team alone, allowing dogs with space issues to focus and succeed. This activity promotes confidence, develops joy in training and provides mental stimulation, ideal for shy, elderly or disabled dogs. The main elements of the sport are good sportsmanship and fun for the dogs and handler.

Sport detection or nose work is the sport and fun version of professional and law enforcement scent detection, such as for narcotics, bed bugs or explosives. Sport detection, however, uses legal scents that are easily purchased and stored by the average person. In Canada and the U.S., these are small amounts of specific essential oils. The dog must locate a hidden target scent and alert the handler to its location. It becomes a true partnership game because the owner must learn to trust in the dog’s superior scenting skills and also to read the subtleties of canine body language and support their dog’s natural abilities.

Whether practiced for competition or fun, sport detection is suited to all types of dogs and handlers. Any age or breed can do it. Various human or canine disabilities are easily accommodated as are some behavioural issues.

In most organizations trials are run so that each search is done by one dog and handler team working by itself, allowing dogs with issues to focus on the task. Working individually and without social stressors allows the dog

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

The Sporting Detection Dogs Association was established in 2012 as a not-for-profit organization so that a wide variety of dogs and their people can enjoy

the benefits of detection work and to earn titles in competition.

Photo Credit: Ordinary Moments Photography; Inset Photo Credit Karin Apfel

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DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023 Photo Credit: Ordinary Moments Photography

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Photos Credit: Tina Sawicki

Detection for sport or nose work has become increasingly popular in the past decade with multiple organizations adding the sport to their offerings. In Canada, the sport was introduced nationally by the Sporting Detection Dogs Association, was then brought in from the United States by the United Kennel Club and other smaller organizations and eventually adopted by the Canadian Kennel Club as well, so there are lots of opportunities to play the game now. So why is it so popular?

The Nose Knows For dogs, smelling is very likely their dominant sense.

Dogs have, on average, 225 million scent receptors

compared to our 5 million, as well a large proportion of their brain is dedicated to smelling and analyzing scent. In addition, they have the vomeronasal organ (an auxiliary olfactory organ) in the roof of their mouths that helps them “taste” scent and analyze it even further.

When a dog is actively scenting, it can take over 300 samples per minute (5 per second).

No matter how clever we humans are, we cannot even begin to approach the ability of a dog to find hidden items by scent. Dogs are now being used to find any variety of odours for private companies, government agencies and law enforcement such as bed bugs, cancer cells, explosives, gas leaks, human remains, drugs, contraband food and animals, currency, termites, rare plants, whale poop, crop fungi and more.

Dogs are considered the gold standard of scent detection over any man-made device.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

to channel its energy, leaving the dog and handler free to concentrate. Natural dog behaviours often regarded as undesirable such as pulling on leash and barking in enthusiasm, are acceptable and may even be encouraged as part of drive and confidence building.

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Safe Toys for Puppies DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

By Phyllis DeGioia, Veterinary Partner Editor

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P

uppies need to play, and they really enjoy toys.

However, hard toys risk fracturing teeth while soft toys risk ingestion and gastrointestinal obstruction, so which toys are safe for them to play with?

Your area of concern is safety, but the answer depends on what your dog likes to play with and which type of veterinarian you’re asking because there is no across-theboard consensus. Just as individual dogs prefer different types and textures, different veterinarians prefer the type that doesn’t cause damage seen most commonly in their practice.

not hard chewers • Food puzzle toys can be used at 6-8 weeks of age Broadly, according to veterinary dentist Dr. Fraser Hale, you can just remember the Kneecap Rule: “If you wouldn't want me to hit you in the kneecap with it, don't let your dog chew on it! For very small dogs, I say ‘If your dog wouldn’t want me to hit them in the kneecap with it, don’t let them chew on it.”

An ER specialist says not to give them anything but

Play time with toys should always be supervised when you are dealing with a puppy because you never know if they will manage to choke on it, swallow part of it, or ruin their incoming permanent teeth. With puppies, it’s mostly about what they should not play with rather than what they should.

Interacting during play time with your puppy is one of the easiest ways to establish a bond with your puppy, but let common sense dictate what you let them play with.

Better Toys Generally speaking, these types of toys are considered to be safe for puppies: • Toys made from hard nylon.

• Balls and chew toys made of hard rubber.

• Vinyl or plastic chew toys for light chewers unless part is bitten off, but

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Puppies like to chew, especially when they are teething, around age 3-7 months, a bit longer for small breeds.

Many toys are available for help with teething. Chewing helps relieve teething pain, which lasts for months, plus it keeps them busy and happy whether you are involved or not. Chewing also helps avoid boredom and can relieve some apprehension.

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DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

...dentist says NOT to give them tennis balls because of what the tennis ball surface can do to teeth...

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Kongs and Nylabones. A dentist says not to give them hard toys or tennis balls because of what the tennis ball surface can do to teeth, but does not consider Kongs to be hard toys. A general practitioner says she uses stuffed toys (stuffies) before the puppies are weaned, and then takes them away if the puppy starts destroying it. Squeaker toys can be given to dogs who do not destroy the stuffies, but if they disembowel it in 30 seconds or 30 days, they should not have access to squeaky toys because they may try, perhaps successfully, to swallow the squeaker or stuffing.

Food puzzle toys can be used at 6-8 weeks.

Rope toys are not approved of or disapproved of across the board from veterinary dentists. Some veterinary dentists like rope toys, and some dentists disapprove of them. One concern is that puppies can stick their long, sharp canines into the rope, get caught, and then snap off a canine tooth while trying to get unstuck. You can try one and see what your puppy does with it.

Tips to Remember • Toys made for the small mouths of an 8-to-10-week-old puppy may cause a 6-to-9-month-old to choke. Keep the size of the toy appropriate for your puppy’s size.

• Letting puppies chew on old shoes means they will think all shoes are fair game. He cannot tell the difference between which shoes you care about and which you don’t.

X

• Keep interest up by rotating your puppy’s toys every few days so that the old toys seem new again.

• Toys with small or sharp metal parts such as eyes, pins, springs, or batteries.

• Toys should always be big enough that the puppy cannot swallow them.

• No cooked bones, EVER, throughout the dog’s lifetime. These are not toys, but should be mentioned.

• Marketing is not necessarily truthful. Just because the package says it’s good for your puppy doesn’t mean it is and doesn’t mean it isn’t. If you question a toy’s safety, ask your veterinarian about it.

Tips to Remember

• Just because the toy is deemed “safe” does not mean it can’t cause a problem of some kind. Puppies should be supervised when playing with toys.

If a piece of a hard toy is chewed off, throw it away because those rubber bits are not digestible.

Toys that are generally not safe – and much of this depends on your puppy’s personal preferences – include: • The hardest of hard toys (the “softer” hard toys are acceptable) • Rawhide or pressed chews (choking or surgery to remove it from their stomach) • Long thin strips of anything from yarn to ribbon (linear foreign object) • Toys stuffed with foam (foam can be swallowed) • Antlers, pig’s ears, dried cow hooves (those can splinter)

Avoid: Rawhide

Some dedicated hard chewers can destroy large hard toys surprisingly fast.

So-called “scarf-n-choke” dogs who inhale food seemingly at light speed need to be supervised carefully so that they don’t swallow something even while you’re watching. They might anyway.

Hooves, antlers, and bones are a risk to any pet’s health.

However, they can be a risk trade-off for the dog proven to chew absolutely everything, particularly metal and rocks, and therefore the dog is already going to be at risk of tooth damage and ingesting foreign bodies.

Hard chewers are not confined to specific breeds,

X DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Toys to Avoid

Don’t let puppies hang from a toy by their teeth.

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A general practitioner says she uses stuffed toys (stuffies) before the puppies are weaned, and then takes them away if the puppy starts destroying it.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

although you can assume some terriers will be heavy chewers. Remember that members of other breeds can also chomp right through toys designed for hard chewers.

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If you think you can avoid the whole safety concern by not giving them any toys, think again: they will find their own “toys,” all of which will most likely be your belongings, such as your shoes and furniture, because they will find something to play with. Your best bet is to give them something appropriate and supervise their play time. You can look for other ways to stimulate and exercise your puppy, though, such as food puzzles, and actively engaging with your puppy by playing fetch with a safe plastic ball, for instance.

What works best for an individual puppy depends on what they like and how hard they chew. It’s a learning process for you and your puppy.

X &

The Bottom Line Whatever toy you give a puppy or an adult can – but won’t necessarily - cause various negative consequences.

Hard toys risk fracturing delicate primary and immature/ erupting adult teeth, whereas soft toys risk ingestion and GI obstruction. Given how many toys cannot be generalized as acceptable or not by veterinary dentists, your safest approach is to talk to your veterinarian about your dog. Your veterinarian knows your dog and is in the best position to help.

Remember, however, that you should supervise puppies while they play with toys in case something happens.

Plus, playing with puppies is a lot of fun!

URL: https://www.slowvetmed.com/pet-library.pml?id=10282231 3938df6c-3bca-4420-97ab-f4abf89d8f0f.1667426707

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DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

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Treasure Hunt Over

$4000.00

in Treasures* to be WON! Treasure Hunt starts January 1, 2023.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

*Treasures include Resort Stay for you, a guest and your dog, resort facility fees, meals, taxes, treats and toys.

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Starting here:

X

Longitude: -123.405978 Latitude: 48.648948

2023 Treasure Hunt Rules and Regulations!

Open to residents of Canada (excluding Quebec), who are of the legal age of majority in their province or territory at time of entry.

The contest is subject to federal, provincial and local laws and regulations.

Odds of winning is dependent on number of entries received.

Treasure Hunt runs from January 1, 2023 till 11:59 PM EST on Thursday August 31, 2023 The winners will be determined by the number of entries they have. The Top 4 contestants with the most entries will be eligible for the Grand Prize. Whoever has the most entries will have to provide the answers to the 8 Treasure Hunt Clues given over the next 8 months.

4 Prizes to Win 1 Grand Prize and 3 Runner-up Prizes.

The 4 winners will be announced on Tuesday September 5th, 2023, They will be contacted by either phone, or on a private message on Social Media. If a winner cannot be located within 48 hours of time of first attempted notice, the next up with the most entries will be selected.

In the event of a tie, Grand Prize will be determined by draw, by an independent contest manager.

This 2023 Treasure Hunt Contest is in no way affiliated with Facebook or Instagram.

Prizes must be accepted as awarded.

No cash value.

All taxes of any prizes are included, except for any transportation taxes for the Grand Prize.

NOTE: For Grand Prize: Contest does not include any transportation costs to Grand Prize Location.

Where is the Grand Prize Location? Follow us on our social media for clues!

HOW TO ENTER:

If you are a subscriber of Pet Connection Magazine in Canada, you are automatically given an entry.

BONUS PERK for being a Subscriber!

Once you are registered we can see when you like, follow and share us, and if you comment on any of the Treasure Hunt Posts.

Share Treasure Hunt posts as often as you want. Each share is given one entry. Each like on any Treasure Hunt Post is given one entry. Only one entry for comments. Please only comment once. Tag as many friends as you want. Each tag gets one entry.

Whoever has the most entires at the end of day on August 31st, 2023 will be contacted, and will have to provide the correct answer to all 8 Treasure Hunt clues.

Treasure hunt clues will be released each month on social media. January to August 2023.

Treasure hunt clues will also be in the Pet Connection Magazine, for 5 issues.

Dec/Jan, Feb/Mar, Apr/May, June/July and Aug/Sept.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

1. Register with us to participate: Send an email with your name, and name of town or city where you live.

One entry per household. Treasurehunt@petconnection.ca 2. Follow: Pet Connection Canada on either Instagram or Facebook. Two Bonus entries for both!

3. Like the Treasure Hunt Clues and posts and comment on them.

4. Figure out what or where the Treasure Hunt clue is.

5. Tag a friend about the 2023 Treasure Hunt.

6. Share Treasure Hunt Posts

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12 Days of Treats On the 1st Day of Christmas my Best Friend gave to me, 1 Qeva Bison Bite, and a copy of Pet Connection.

On the 2nd Day of Christmas, my Best Friend gave to me, 2 Wild Vibes, 1 Qeva Bison Bite, and a copy of Pet Connection.

All our products are sustainably harvested in Alberta and 100% natural. They are made exclusively from animals raised on wide-open pastures, without hormones or animal by-products.

Elk Velvet Antler is utilized in traditional Chinese medicine as a nutritional supplement to support joint health, muscle strength, and endurance. It has also been shown to reduce recovery and healing time.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

qeva.com

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At Wild Vibes, we saw a natural evolution of the raw single ingredient freeze dried treats. We coat our trea in hearty bone broth from th same protein source before Salmon Belly, Chicken Heart Kangaroo, Lamb Lung, Beef glazed with their own bone broth for a wild and tasty We invite retailers and customers to follow us on insta @wild_vibes_treats, and subscribe to our website www.wildvibestreats.com to stay tuned for othe product offerings in the future.

Retailers can sign up for a wholesale account at ou website www.wildvibeswholesale.com, and order through our online portal.

On the 3rd Day of Christmas, my Best Friend gave to me, 3 Love Bites, 2 Wild Vibes, 1 Qeva Bison Bite, and a copy of Pet Connection. amorepetfoods.com

happydaysdairy.com/pet-products

On the 6th Day of Christmas, my Best Friend gave to me, 6 Barkery Cookies, 5 Happy Days, 4 Paws Pure, 3 Love Bites, 2 Wild Vibes, 1 Qeva Bison Bite, and a copy of Pet Connection.

We are a full-scale, all natural bakery for your fuzzy friend/dog.

Since opening our doors in 2001, The Barkery’s freshly baked, home made treats have become The Bark of the Town!

At The Barkery, our mission is to provide dogs and dog owners with delicious, nutritious and healthy treats. We are committed to offering a healthy alternative to mass-produced dog treats- which means our undecorated treats have no added sugar, no corn, no salt, no artificial flavours and no food colouring!

All orders placed are baked fresh and can be delivered directly to your front door.

ur

thebarkery.ca

4pawspure.ca

On the 4th Day of Christmas, my Best Friend gave to me, 4 Paws Pure, 3 Love Bites, 2 Wild Vibes, 1 Qeva Bison Bite, and a copy of Pet Connection.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

e ats he drying. t, Liver, all treat! agram e at er

On the 5th Day of Christmas, my Best Friend gave to me, 5 Happy Days, 4 Paws Pure, 3 Love Bites, 2 Wild Vibes, 1 Qeva Bison Bite, and a copy of Pet Connection.

Purchase at your favourite pet store, or buy now www.petconnectionstore.ca

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12 Days of Treats

On the 7th Day of Christmas, my Best Friend gave to me, 7 Lamb Lungs, 6 Barkery Cookies, 5 Happy Days, 4 Paws Pure, 3 Love Bites, 2 Wild Vibes, 1 Qeva Bison Bite, and a copy of Pet Connection.

noahsarkpettreats.com

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

4pawspure.ca

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On the 9th Day of Christmas, my Best Friend gave to m 9 Salmon Skins, 8 Mega Morsels, 7 Lamb Lungs, 6 Bark Cookies, 5 Happy Days, 4 Paws Pure, 3 Love Bites, 2 W Vibes, 1 Qeva Bison Bite, and a copy of Pet Connectio

On the 8th Day of Christmas, my Best Friend gave to me, 8 Mega Morsels, 7 Lamb Lungs, 6 Barkery Cookies, 5 Happy Days, 4 Paws Pure, 3 Love Bites, 2 Wild Vibes, 1 Qeva Bison Bite, and a copy of Pet Connection. amorepetfoods.com

On the 10th Day of Christmas, my Best Friend gave to me, 10 Venison Jerkies, 9 Salmon Skins, 8 Mega Morsels, 7 Lamb Lungs, 6 Barkery Cookies, 5 Happy Days, 4 Paws Pure, 3 Love Bites, 2 Wild Vibes, 1 Qeva Bison Bite, and a copy of Pet Connection.

4pawspure.ca

On the 11th Day of Christmas, my Best Friend gave to me, 11 Goat Cheese Squares 10 Venison Jerkies, 9 Salmon Skins, 8 Mega Morsels, 7 Lamb Lungs, 6 Barkery Cookies, 5 Happy Days, 4 Paws Pure, 3 Love Bites, 2 Wild Vibes, 1 Qeva Bison Bite, and a copy of Pet Connection.

happydaysdairy.com/pet-products

On the 12th Day of Christmas, my Best Friend gave to me, 12 Noah’s Ark Sardines, 11 Goat Cheese Squares, 10 Venison Jerkies, 9 Salmon Skins, 8 Mega Morsels, 7 Lamb Lungs, 6 Barkery Cookies, 5 Happy Days, 4 Paws Pure, 3 Love Bites, 2 Wild Vibes, 1 Qeva Bison Bite, and a copy of Pet Connection.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

me, kery Wild on.

Purchase at your favourite pet store, or buy now www.petconnectionstore.ca

noahsarkpettreats.com

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TOXIC DISINFECTANTS: What to Use and What Not to Use Around Your Pets

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

By Jacqueline Brister, DVM; Sharon M. Gwaltney-Brant, DVM, PhD, DABT, DABVT

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Remember to Read the Labels and Use your Thinking Cap Many common cleaning and disinfecting products made for the surfaces in your home are not meant to be used on yourself. For example, don’t use wipes meant to disinfect surfaces on your skin. If something isn’t safe for your skin, don’t put it on your pet either. Never spray or wipe down your pet with cleaning products.

Avoid getting cleaners into the eyes, mouth, or nose, just as you would with yourself.

Read product labels and make sure they are safe for pets. Call your veterinarian if you are unsure if something is safe, or if you think your pet has had access to something toxic. You can also check online or phone (for a fee) the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control.

A group of German investigators has identified several commonly available disinfectants that should inactivate SARS-CoV-2.

These include:

• Isopropyl alcohol (70%), commonly called rubbing alcohol • Bleach can be diluted by putting 4 teaspoons of bleach per 1 quart of water or 20 ml of bleach per liter of water.

• 0.5% hydrogen peroxide • 0.1% sodium hypochlorite

Acidic Products Acidic products can be found in certain cleaning agents, such as toilet bowl cleaners. They can cause pretty severe damage to any type of tissue they contact, especially if eaten or put in the eyes. Symptoms start to occur immediately and can include pain, crying/whimpering, trouble swallowing, vomiting, mouth and esophageal sores/ulcers, skin redness and sores, or eye redness and squinting. After calling your vet, offer water or milk if the product was eaten, or rinse the area (ideally for 10-15 minutes) with room temperature water.

Alkaline Products DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

C

leaning and disinfecting are more important than ever during the COVID-19 outbreak, but cleaning always need to be done no matter what. Unfortunately, there is a lot of confusion about which cleaning products can be toxic to pets. In fact, many cleaners are okay around pets, especially if they are allowed to dry or the pet is only exposed to small amounts. But which common cleaning and disinfecting products can be problematic in our furry friends?

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DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

... products can penetrate deeply into the tissues on contact and cause significant damage.

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These cleaning products include sodium hydroxide (lye), potassium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide (household ammonia), and potassium permanganate. They are often used as drain openers, dishwasher detergents, and toilet bowl cleaners. These products can penetrate deeply into the tissues on contact and cause significant damage. Unlike acidic products, pain is not immediate, so symptoms may not be obvious at first. Signs associated with alkaline product ingestion include drooling, not eating, fever, oral redness and ulcers, trouble swallowing, vomiting, belly pain, and dark, tarry stools. Eye or skin contact can lead to redness as well. Call your vet and flush the mouth or contact area for 10-15 min with room temperature water.

Bleach Liquid bleach is made of sodium hypochlorite. If it comes in contact with the skin or eyes, it can cause irritation such as pain or redness. It can also cause irritation along the respiratory tract if inhaled (sneezing, trouble breathing)

and along the gastrointestinal tract (vomiting, loose stool, poor appetite) if eaten/drunk. Highly concentrated bleach (6% sodium hypochlorite or higher, may also be called “ultra bleach”) can cause pretty severe damage, such as ulcers in the mouth and GI tract if eaten. In addition to calling your vet, offer milk if the pet has eaten bleach.

Bathe the pet in liquid dishwashing soap until the bleach smell is gone if it has gotten on the skin.

Bleach combined with an acidic cleaner is dangerous, as it can create hypochlorous acid and chlorine gas, which is toxic if inhaled. It can cause inflammation/irritation of the mouth, throat, and GI tract. This gas is also toxic to people.

Cationic Detergents (also known as Quaternary Ammonia Compounds) Cleaning products such as all-purpose cleaners and sanitizers are commonly used cationic detergents.

Sanitizers include surface disinfecting wipes; pool algaecides; some fabric softeners; some dryer sheets; some laundry detergents, especially liquid ones; and some toilet tank drop in products (these are only a

Mental Enrichment!

WORK OUT YOUR BRAIN!

Try this Word Jumble.

Unscramble each of the clue words.

Take the letters that appear in the circled boxes and unscramble them for the final message.

LAIANM ACOIPLRT MEXTERE PNEETCRTI Answer is on page 45 (in the calendar section)

This jumble was created by The Blue Sheet Clubhouse, a group of brain injury survivors.

The Cridge Centre for the Family’s Brain Injury Services provides independent housing with support for survivors of brain injury. Through the development of support groups like The Blue Sheet Clubhouse we strive to provide opportunities for personal development and reintegration in the community.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

The mime called his canine assistant.........

41

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

...in doubt about using a product where your dog or cat can come into contact with it, be sure to check with an animal poison control center or ...

42

concern if the tablet or capsule itself is ingested, but they're okay after being diluted in the toilet water).

Household products in the U.S. that have cationic detergents have to list these under an ingredient list on the front label. Cleaners with no list on the front label would not have cationics or bleach in them. Even at low concentrations (2%), they can cause symptoms similar to alkaline products. In addition, weakness, twitching, seizures, collapse, and trouble breathing may be seen if eaten. Call your vet, then feed milk if product was ingested or use dishwashing liquid to remove the product from the skin.

Hand Sanitizers and Alcohol

Detergents (Non-Ionic/Anionic) & Soaps

Isopropanol, also known as rubbing alcohol, is absorbed quickly by mouth and is readily absorbed through the skin, which can cause intoxication if enough is absorbed. Breathing in the fumes can also be problematic in small, confined areas. Ethanol and ethyl alcohol are similar types of alcohol, all of which can be found in hand sanitizer. Usually hand sanitizer has other ingredients to give it that jelly consistency, such as propylene glycol. Propylene glycol and ethanol or ethyl alcohol are NOT the same thing as what is found in antifreeze, which is ethylene glycol. Hand sanitizers do not cause antifreeze poisoning. In fact, most hand sanitizers are rarely an issue if eaten in very small amounts (e.g. a pet licking your hands after you put some on yourself ). Signs of alcohol toxicity, although very rare, can include vomiting, wobbliness, twitching, trouble breathing, or becoming comatose. If these signs are noted, go see your vet as soon as possible. Keep your pet warm in the meantime.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Non-ionic and anionic detergents can be found in many types of soaps, such as hand soap and shampoo, and cleaning products such as hand dishwashing detergent. For the most part, the toxicity level in soaps is mild. These can cause irritation if they get into the eyes after which you may see eye redness or squinting. If eye irritation has occurred, you can rinse your pet’s eyes with room temperature water or saline solution. If these products are eaten, they can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and loose stool. If these symptoms are seen, call your vet immediately.

43

Direct irritation can be an issue if a pet walks on a surface that isn’t yet dry.

Cats seem to be especially sensitive to these products.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Phenols

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The levels of phenols in household cleaners are generally not toxic enough to be of concern anymore; if exposed, you generally find the kind of issues you see with anionic/nonionic detergents. Phenols can be found in antiseptics, germicides, household cleaners with pine oil products and disinfectants such as some cleaning sprays. They can cause problems in the GI tract if eaten. Direct irritation can be an issue if a pet walks on a surface that isn’t yet dry. Cats seem to be especially sensitive to these products. Pain, redness, and ulcers may be noted on the skin or paws with contact. Rapid breathing, tremors, twitching, and incoordination can be seen if the pet eats the product. Call your vet

and bathe the pet with liquid dish soap if the product contacted the skin.

If You Are Unsure The ASPCA Poison Control Center says that most cleaning agents can be used safely in homes as long as label recommendations are followed. In this scenario, better safe than sorry. If you are in doubt about using a product where your dog or cat can come into contact with it, be sure to check with an animal poison control center or call your veterinarian.

URL: https://www.slowvetmed.com/pet-library.pml?id=9570378 8cff1b49-d6f1-4028-a0a1-6d2f8d10711d.1667425677

DECEMBER 2022

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Thursday December 15th Grand Prize Winner of the 2021 Dog Photo Contest to be announced.

January 1, 2023 Cat and Dog Photo Contests Start Again!

Wednesday December 21st Winter Solstice Sunday December 25th Christmas Day Jumble Answer from page 41

Scent Detection All Dogs Can Play! www.sportingdetectiondogs.ca

Words: Animal, Tropical, Extreme, Intercept

Answer: PANTOMIME

The Pet Connection assumes no responsibility for any information listed for any of these events. While every attempt is made to double check information submitted, we are not responsible for any cancelled events, rescheduled events, wrong dates or times, location changes, wrong address’s or wrong phone numbers. If you have an event you would like to mention, please submit it to, info@petconnection.ca. Due to space limitations there is no guarantee that it will be listed.

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45

Pet Insurance Fact Sheet

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

By Dr. Frances Wilkerson, DVM

46

What is Pet Insurance?

How does Pet Insurance Work?

Pet insurance or pet health insurance helps cover the cost of medical expenses should your pet become ill or have an accident.

Pet insurance is similar to human health insurance in that it: • Has premiums, deductibles, co-pays and maximum payouts.

Some pet insurance companies also offer routine and wellness coverage (vaccinations, annual wellness exams, spaying/neutering, heartworm testing/medications, etc.) for an additional fee.

What is the Best Way to Use Pet Insurance?

• Has waiting periods that define when coverage starts. Companies can also have different waiting periods for different medical conditions.

Pet insurance differs from human health insurance in that:

Pet insurance is best used for unexpected, catastrophic medical events that are difficult to budget for.

• It does not cover pre-existing conditions.

Routine and wellness procedures are not always best handled with pet insurance. Sometimes the annual cost of adding routine and wellness care to your plan ends up being more than it would cost you if you paid for these procedures out of your own pocket, so make sure you do the math before you buy.

• It is a reimbursement program. This means you pay the vet bill, and then you file the claim with the pet insurance company for reimbursement. It is very different from human medical insurance where the doctor files the claim and receives the payment directly from the insurance company. This means you will have to have some means to pay the veterinary bill while you wait for reimbursement.

It is possible that you will pay more in premiums than you get back if your pet stays relatively healthy, therefore pet insurance (like any other insurance) should be used as a risk management tool, not as a way to save money.

• Pet insurance companies do not use networks. You are able to visit any licensed veterinarian in the U.S. Some plans also allow you to visit a licensed veterinarian in another country while traveling.

it’s too COLD for them.

Don’t let them suffer… bring them indoors!

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

If it’s too cold for you,

47

Pet insurance is best used for unexpected, catastrophic medical events that are difficult to budget for.

How to Select a Pet Insurance Plan

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Selecting a pet insurance plan is an individual choice because each person has different needs depending on the pet's breed, owner's geographical location and the owner's budget.

48

First, determine if you need pet insurance. If you can cover the worst case scenario costs for your geographic location out of your own pocket, then you may not need pet insurance.

If you determine that you need pet insurance, make sure the pet insurance company you choose has the following attributes: 1. Has good medical coverage To get the most comprehensive coverage, you want to purchase a plan that covers accidents/injuries AND

illnesses. The illness part of the coverage must include (these are common ailments in veterinary medicine): a) Coverage for cancer b) Coverage for chronic disease Chronic diseases are illnesses that have long duration and generally slow progression. Examples include cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and feline immunodeficiency virus. c) Continual coverage for chronic disease – If you do not get this coverage, the chronic disease will only be covered in the policy year it was diagnosed, and after that you will have to pay for any continuing medications or diagnostic monitoring yourself. To further this point, you will pay the same monthly premium even though you have lost coverage for the disease.

– Treatment for most chronic diseases will last beyond the first year of diagnosis, therefore it is important to have coverage in this area. d) Coverage for hereditary and congenital diseases. e) Coverage for diseases that are common to your pet’s breed.

2. Has a good reputation.

Research a pet insurance company's reputation using the Better Business Bureau and your state's department of insurance.

3. Has a strong underwriter.

• Exclusions are medical conditions that are not covered by the plan.

• Requirements are things you must do to remain insured (e.g. annual exams, animal must reside in the place of residence listed on the policy, submission of medical records, and adherence to the vaccination recommendations).

• Exclusions and requirements are written in the pet insurance company’s terms and conditions. It is important that you read this document before and after you buy so that there are no surprises.

What about Accident Only Policies?

The underwriter is the company that is financially responsible for paying your claim. Use AM Best to research the strength of the underwriter.

4. Has a maximum payout limit that will cover the worst case scenario costs for your geographic location.

The maximum payout limit is the maximum amount of money the insurance company will reimburse you.

This payout limit can be annual, lifetime, per incident, per body system, or based on a predetermined benefit schedule. You want to pick a maximum payout structure that will cover the worst case scenario costs.

5. Has an affordable premium.

6. Pays claims in a timely fashion.

...what a pet owner considers to be an accident is not necessarily what a pet insurance company considers to be one.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

7. Does not have unreasonable exclusions and requirements.

49

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Never buy pet insurance without doing your own research.

50

Accident only policies tend to be much cheaper than comprehensive accident and illness policies because they do not cover costly illnesses.

Also, as a pet ages, the number of accident-related injuries decreases in comparison to the number of illness-related conditions.

In addition, what a pet owner considers to be an accident is not necessarily what a pet insurance company considers to be one. For example, some companies will not cover conditions such as foreign body ingestion or cruciate injuries in their accident only policies.

If you intend to buy an accident only policy, make sure you know what you are getting for your money.

Key Points Regarding Pet Insurance • Never buy pet insurance without doing your own research.

• Do not pick pet insurance solely based on the cost of the premium. Make sure you consider the monetary and medical coverage it provides.

• Read the terms and conditions of the pet insurance plan. Make sure you understand all the exclusions and requirements in the policy.

• Ask the company for a list of exclusions based on your pet's past medical history and breed.

• Usually you have to purchase the policy first to receive this type of review and you will have to submit medical records. Also, not all pet insurance companies offer this option, but if they do it will give you a list of the exclusions you can expect based on your pet’s prior history. If you don’t like what is on this list, you can cancel the policy within the money back guarantee period.

• Do not wait until your pet has an illness or injury before you buy pet insurance as it will be considered a pre-existing condition and will not be covered by your policy.

• Know which states are covered by the plan.

• Not all pet insurance companies are licensed to sell

insurance in all states. Therefore, before buying a pet insurance plan make sure the company sells plans in your state and any state you may be thinking of moving to. Also, make sure the coverage will be the same in the new state.

• If you have to switch pet insurance companies, any medical conditions your pet had under the old company may be considered pre-existing by the new company.

• Know the enrollment age range of the plan.

This is the age your pet must be to sign up for a new policy. There is usually a low end and a high end.

There can be one range for dogs and one range for cats. There can also be ranges for certain breeds.

• Make sure you ask the company how and when your premium can increase.

• Make sure you understand what the company’s waiting periods are as it will vary from company to company.

• Make sure you understand the company’s preexisting conditions policy as it will vary from company to company.

• Make sure you understand the company’s bilateral conditions policy.

• A bilateral condition is any condition that can happen on both sides of the body. Some companies have restrictions on how much they will cover for these types of conditions. Examples of bilateral conditions include, but are not limited to, hip dysplasia (could happen in both hips) and cruciate injuries (could happen in both knees).

• Pet insurance companies are businesses.

– As businesses, one of their top priorities is to make a profit. They can and may change your rates and terms to meet that top priority. A change of business ownership or underwriters can also be a catalyst for changes in your rates and terms.

When you purchase pet insurance, make sure you have a realistic understanding of this and how it can affect you.

URL: https://www.slowvetmed.com/pet-library.pml?id=4952978 07614277-557b-47fd-91ba-ca04e3a7978d.1666984243

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

As the name implies, accident only policies cover accidents only. They do not cover medical costs caused by illnesses.

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Manitoba Animal Alliance M

anitoba Animal Alliance was established in 2013 by Founder and Director Debra Vandekerkhove. As a passionate advocate for animals Debra began building from scratch to what Manitoba Animal Alliance is today. A dedicated volunteer run organization with a far reach across the province of Manitoba providing veterinary resources and animal care to communities that are without.

Working together with first nation communities, we’re building on this foundation of compassion and inclusion to help both pets and people. We’re making sure that everyone has the same access to care for their pets and that every adoptable pet (stray or rehoming) has access to the comfort of a foster home.

Here at Manitoba Animal Alliance, we are driven by a single goal; to do our part in making Manitoba a better place for people and their pets. Our decision-making process is informed with comprehensive empirical research and data evaluation.

The lifespan of a northern dog in some communities is below 1.7 years. We strive to build productive relationships and make a positive impact with all of our pursuits.

Animal Removal & Rehoming THE FORGOTTEN ONES DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

NORTHERN DOGS LAST During emergency evacuations in Northern communities, pets are left behind. Limited space on evacuation planes means pet owners cannot bring their pets. Our organization helps put together plans for the pets behind including supplies up to provide for the pets, flying right into the community with emergency personal to care for pets until owners are flown back home.

Drive out communities are supported with onsite food and pet supplies in conjunction with Red Cross operations for evacuees.

Remote Clinics & Veterinarian Services

A Distinct Identity

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Emergency Assistance

Flying out companion homeless, injured, and abandoned pets. With this initiative, our goal is to promote lifesaving opportunities for those in need.

With access to the right resources, local volunteers can become empowered by their own abilities and gain the confidence to fulfill their potential. Learn more about our work by getting in touch with our team today.

Sending supplies up to communities is critical to feed and help animals while they wait for a flight or transport.

ONE STEP AT A TIME With our organization’s goals always in mind, we strive to find new strategies for dealing with this challenge.

Veterinary Services is something that we take very seriously, and our team is working each and every day to make a positive impact. Contact us to learn more about our commitment to this cause.

Animal Suffering & Homelessness ADVOCATING BY TAKING LIFE SAVING ACTION Making lasting change for the future requires much more than just rehoming animals in need, but extending our reach far being the “rescue” + adopt cycle. It’s working with communities to support progressive pet management programs, polices and extending veterinary access. Our team is heavily invested in taking action by working together with community members, health authorities, elected officials and community leadership as part of our greater one health program.

www.manitobaanimalalliance.com

Our Work Together, with a collaborative One Health approach our team is providing veterinary resources and care to communities who don't have equitable health care access.

With compassion at the forefront of all our work, we recognize the gap in not having essential access to health services, including veterinary care in many communities throughout Manitoba. We also recognize the connection between people, animals and their shared environment and what this means for how we provide assistance, support and advocacy.

Poplar River Vet Clinic

Town of Grand Rapids

Connecting communities to services.

Connecting vet care to communities

Together with the help of Winnipeg Humane Society we were able to provide Spay and Neuter surgeries to over 50 animals. Our team was also there to provide vaccinations, and stock up the community with emergency food for the community pets.

Our team, together with the Winnipeg Humane Society were able to provide 40+ animals spay and neuter surgeries and vet care by providing transportation from Grand Rapids to Winnipeg, and back again so all animals could receive vet care before making it back to their owners.

This is how our team makes veterinary care accessible and affordable.

After years of work in Poplar River, we're happy to report that they have reduced their stray animal population significantly.

Our One Health Program is working!

Help Support our One Health Program: www.manitobaanimalalliance.com/general-8

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

In our commitment to reconciliation, we stand in solidarity with Indigenous people of this land recognizing that we're operating on Treaty 1, 2 and 5 territory and will support Indigenous communities with respect.

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Timbre's story Timbre was found by the RCMP at the dump - he was cold, soaking wet, and screaming at the top of his voice. That got him noticed. We estimate he was about 6 weeks old and he was found with another little girl puppy (Tia) that was only about 3 weeks old. They were flown into Winnipeg together. Timbre looked after Tia ... it was the sweetest thing. They were sent to a foster home together. A couple weeks later Tia’s sister was found on the side of the road. She was brought to the same foster. They were then all adopted.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Timbre moved to BC where he now happily lives with his big brother Keera, (who was also adopted from the MAA), and his loving family.

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DONATE TODAY Every dollar counts!

www.manitobaanimalalliance.com

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DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

PHOTO CONTEST FOR DOGS PROUDLY SPONSORED

BY HAPPY DAYS

Grand Prize Winner of the 2022 Dog Photo Contest will be announced on December 15, 2022!

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

WHO WILL WIN?

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Thank you to everyone who entered!

Please visit our website for more information: www.petconnection.ca

2022 Photo Contest

KEERA

RYDER

ANDY MONROE

ECHO

May

June

July

August

ARYA

COPPER, TIMBER, & NANDO

ZIGGY & RUMMY

DUKE

September

October

November

December

MILO

BUOY

TOFU

WAYLON & ANGUS

FOLLOW US! #chanceforthecover Follow us on Facebook PetConnectionCanada

#happydayspet Follow us on Instagram Petconnectionmagazine

#petconnectionmagazine Follow us on Twitter @PetConnectionCa

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Dog Photo Contest runs January 1, 2022 to December 15, 2022.

The Grand Prize Dog Winner will be chosen from our Monthly Winners below.

January February March April

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PHOTO CONTEST FOR Cats PROUDLY SPONSORED BY IRON WILL RAW

Monthly Winners!

Grand Prize Winner will receive $500.00 worth of Iron Will Raw Products!

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Your cat can be on a magazine cover!

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RULES Contest is only open to Canadian pets alive and living in Canada. If you have multiple pets, you can send in multiple photos, but please only one photo per pet per month.

PHOTO SIZE: your jpg (photo) must be over 1MB in size to be considered.

Prizes must be accepted as awarded.

Please no professional photographers.

No purchase required.

To enter, email a high resolution photo of your pet to: info@petconnection.ca

Preference will be given to photos that have room above the pet.

Please visit our website for more information: www.petconnection.ca

2023 Photo Contest Open to entries from all of Canada in all the months.

Open to entries from all of Canada in all the months.

Open to entries from all of Canada in all the months.

Open to entries from all of Canada in all the months.

May

June

July

August

Open to entries from all of Canada in all the months.

Open to entries from all of Canada in all the months.

Open to entries from all of Canada in all the months.

Open to entries from all of Canada in all the months.

September

October

November

December

Open to entries from all of Canada in all the months.

Open to entries from all of Canada in all the months.

Open to entries from all of Canada in all the months.

Open to entries from all of Canada in all the months.

FOLLOW US! #rawcatfood Follow us on Facebook PetConnectionCanada

#fameandfood Follow us on Instagram Petconnectionmagazine

#chanceforthecover Follow us on Twitter @PetConnectionCa

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Cat Photo Contest runs January 1, 2023 to December 15, 2023.

For more information visit our website: www.petconnection.ca January February March April

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Digital Single Issues are available at www.issuu.com

Single Digital Issues available.

Only $2.99 CDN

100%

in Canada

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

BRITISH COLUMBIA

60

4 Paws Pure 3110 15th Avenue, Prince George, BC Amore Pet Foods 4540 Hastings Street, Burnaby, BC Healthy Spot Pet Nutrition #5 - 1050 - 10th Avenue, SW Salmon Arm, BC Healthy Spot Pet Nutrition 3115 48 Avenue #200, Vernon, BC Healthy Spot Pet Nutrition #12 - 1516 Fairfield Road Victoria, BC

Pawsitive Veterinary Care Clinic 500 - 1950 Harvey Avenue, Kelowna, BC Pet Connection Head Office & Retail Store 2443 Beacon Avenue, Sidney, BC Pet Planet #100 - 1135 Stevens Road, West Kelowna, BC Simply Natural Raw Pet Food 5565 West Blvd, Vancouver, BC

Print copies available at select locations.

ALBERTA

QUEBEC

AARCS Safe Haven and Veterinary Hospital 5060 - 74th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta AARCS North Haven 8108 Coronet Road NW, Edmonton, Alberta Edmonton Holistic Veterinarian Clinic 8215 - 102 Street, Edmonton, Alta.

Only available by subscription.

In English only.

SASKATCHEWAN

Valley WAAG Animal Shelter 12-112 Front Street, Wolfville, Nova Scotia

MANITOBA

Only available by subscription.

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND Blue Ribbon Pet Supply and Grooming 420 Queen Street, Charlottetown, PEI

NOVA SCOTIA

NEWFOUNDLAND

Head to Tail Canine Nutrition www.headtotailcaninenutrition.com

The Doghouse 204 Duckworth Street, St. John’s, NL

ONTARIO

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

Bones Pet Boutique 1500 Upper Middle Road, Burlington, Ont. The Hungry Pooch - Lakeshore 486 Advance Blvd, Tecumseh, Ont. The Hungry Pooch 2451A Dougall Avenue, Windsor, Ont. Thor’s Healthy Pet Foods 3-3840 Dominion Road, Ridgeway, Ont.

Borealis Kennels & Pet Supplies Box 2195, Yellowknife, NT

Thrive 4 Life Holistic Pet Food Store 16572 York Durham Line, Whitchurch-Stouffville, Ont.

NUNAVUT Iqaluit Humane Society PO BOX # 11089, Iqaluit, NU

YUKON TERRITORY Humane Society Yukon 126 Tlingit Street, Whitehorse, YT The Feed Store Pet Junction 9006 Quartz Road, Whitehorse, YT

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Fido & Felix Foods We Deliver all across Saskatchewan

NEW BRUNSWICK

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WE COULDN’T DO IT WITHOUT YOU.

DECEMBER 2022 - JANUARY 2023

Trusted since 1992

Visit us at www.petconnection.ca Follow us on Facebook PetConnectionCanada

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Follow us on Twitter @PetConnectionCa

Follow us on Instagram Petconnectionmagazine

INTRODUCING

our newest products BEEF TRIPE & RABBIT PIXIES

Pixies are convenient 2oz fresh frozen patties perfect for cats and small dogs.

Each of the flavours is species specific – meaning the food is not mixed with a variety of species. There is nothing else added.

What’s on the label is the food.

www.carnivora.ca