Central Ohio PetConnections March-April 2016 Digital Edition Vol. 2 Issue 2

March, April 2016 Volume 2 • Issue 2

CENTRAL OHIO

PetConnections wellness through the human-animal bond

FREE

10 Top Tips for a Healthy Pet House Training 101

Equine Assisted Awareness –

An Energy based Therapy

Cats Can Kick the Dry Food Habit The Cost of a Parrot: The Fee for Free Central Ohio’s #1 Resource for Everything Pets

Events

APRIL / MAY 2016 UPCOMING EVENTS Paws in the Plaza

WHEN: the first Thursday of every

month. (April - Oct.) Starts at 4:30. End time varies according to sunset.

WHAT: a special evening to spend with your favorite four-legged friend WHERE: all around the Olde Gahanna downtown area / Mill Street / Creekside Plaza. (117 Mill St.) (Gahanna Exit/Rt 62) www.oldegahanna.com/paws_in_the_plaza

EQUINE AFFAIR

CHA ANIMAL SHELTER

equineaffaire.com

Par for Pets

MERCY’S DOOR PET RESCUE SPRING FLING WALK!

ALL LIFE COMMUNITY FOR INTEGRATIVE WELL BEING

April 7-10

April 17, 2016

10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. http://mercysdoorpetrescue.org/ events.html

Saturday, May 21st www.chaanimalshelter.org/ index.php/par-pets-saturday-may-21st/

Sunday May 15, 2016

Integrative Health Screenings 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. http://alllifecommunity.org/services/ integrative-health-screenings/

Table of Contents March/April 2016 VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 2

12

16

FEATHERED FRIENDS

EQUINE AFFAIRS

The Cost of a Parrot: The Fee for Free

Equine Colic (Part 2 of 3)

2 HUMAN-ANIMAL BOND Mabel

4 PET HEALTH & WELLNESS 10 Top Tips for a Healthy Pet

6 PetConnections RESOURCE DIRECTORIES 8 HOLISTIC PET CARE Cats Can Kick the Dry Food Addiction

10 CANINE COMPANION House Training 101

11

ADVERTISER LOCATOR MAP

12 WILDLIFE Lights Can Prove Lethal

18 WELLNESS FOR GUARDIANS Equine Assisted Awareness — an Energy Based Therapy

20

EQUINE AFFAIRS Unbreakable Bond, Unwavering Mirror

Inside Back Cover R emembrance Moo

Easier to read, more durable, and more comfortable than engraved metal tags.

Includes Links-It to attach tags to collars easily.

Pawdentify.com www.pghpetconnections.com

1

Human-Animal Bond

Mabel

By Karen Lindower

W

e didn’t know we needed a dog.

I knew I loved dogs and would like to have one some day. But my husband of 35 years knew just as strongly that he didn’t want a dog. He said they were too much trouble. He surely didn’t know we needed a dog. Not until Mabel.

On a snowy December night I stepped out onto my porch near midnight. I heard her nails clicking on the pavement before I saw her. As soon as I turned around and saw her walking up my driveway, I knew she needed someone to help her. I tried calling to her, but she didn’t seem to hear me or even see me. She walked straight past me and through our broken gate into the backyard. I now jokingly describe that first impression as a ‘zombie dog’. I ran into the house and yelled upstairs for my son to get his shoes and coat on and come outside.

We found her at the back fence line, stuck between the fence and an old tomato cage that had been thrown back there. With just a flashlight, we couldn’t really tell what we were dealing with. We could tell by her build that she was probably some sort of bulldog. What would she do if we reached for her? Not being experienced ‘dog people’, we were a little scared, but we freed her from the tomato cage

Mabel, December 3, 2015 2 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | March/April 2016

and my son scooped her up and carried her into the house.

She was covered in ice and was very disoriented. We covered her with old towels to warm her up and dry her off. Her head just kept swaying from side to side until she finally fell asleep on the old towels.

My son did a midnight run to the grocery store to get some dog food, which she devoured when she woke up an hour later.

Now what do we do? What kind of dog is this?

Is it male or female? How old is this dog. Is this somebody’s pet? We had lots of questions, but foremost was what will my husband do when he gets up at 4 a.m. to go to work and trips over a dog in his living room? We concluded that we had an English Bulldog in rough shape.

At this point we were being cautious about handling the dog and hadn’t determined that she was indeed a she. (That actually took us 4 days to determine. Lol) My son and I stayed up most of the night keeping an eye on our dropin guest and reading all we could online about English Bulldogs. Fortunately, hubby was understanding when he discovered the dog and agreed that she could stay for a few days until her owner was found. After all, a full bred dog like this had to be someone’s beloved pet, right? Well, we used the internet to reach out to try to find her owner. It put me in touch with a community of dog lovers trying to help find where she belonged and giving helpful advice. We were getting comments in response to her picture that she appeared to be old and not well taken care of. They begged us not to take her to a shelter because she would probably not be considered adoptable. She had no collar or identifying tags. She wasn’t microchipped. Her teeth were ground down to her gums and we were able to conclude that she couldn’t hear. We couldn’t understand why she was having accidents in our house. Surely a dog this old had been house broken. Then one man made the comment that she had probably never been in a house before. How could that be? Who has an English Bulldog

and doesn’t keep it in a house. (After all, my son and I had found out in our research that English Bulldogs are one of the most expensive breeds to buy.) He told us she had probably been used as a breeder dog and kept in a crate outside.

It started to make sense to us. Her physical appearance does indicate that she has had many puppies. Whoever had her no longer needed her in her senior years and she had been dumped on a cold snowy night.

Well, that thought tugged at our heartstrings and we fell in love with this old toothless Bully. Even hubby couldn’t give her up after that. We decided as a family that we would work together to take care of her and give her a loving home. Our son offered to pay vet bills to have her looked at and get her shots.

As she has been feeling better, she has been a livelier dog (well, as lively as old bulldogs get).

She loves to snuggle up next to my husband, the man who was sure he didn’t want a dog, and he loves it just as much as her. They have become best buddies. She loves to be petted continuously and will nudge your hand with her short little nose if you stop. She has gained needed weight, maybe even a little too much, because, like all bulldogs, she never thinks she has had enough. But most of all, Mabel is happy — maybe for the first time in her life.

Right from the beginning it became clear that Mabel was a blessing to us by bringing our family together as a team to love and care for her. (We recently worked together to fix that broken gate for Mabel.) That’s why I say we needed her! PC

From the Publisher Welcome to our Central Ohio PetConnections Magazine March/April 2016 Volume 2 • Issue 2 News & Events Thank you, Columbus! The 22nd All American Columbus Pet Expo in Ohio was a great success! Our recent partnership to produce the show has assisted us in growing in Central Ohio PetConnections. We had a great show with features like our Meet the Rescue Presentations, Mega Adoption Event and featured entertainment with DockDogs, Classic K-9 Show, Johnny Peers and the Muttville Comix Show and Matt Bilderback and his High Performance Canines.

PetConnections will be producing our own annual professional exposition this fall themed, like the magazine, toward education and community. We will offer a symposium on the human-animal bond with our some of our writers and experts on veterinary care, holistic pet care and nutrition. We will featured shelter and rescue organization, as well as a huge shopping gala and benefit and also lots of entertainment! We will announce the final details in the May-June issue!

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES PLEASE SUBMIT ANY CORRESPONDENCE TO: info@pghpetconnections.com 412-738-4233 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS BI-MONTHLY Published by: Pittsburgh PetConnections, LLC. Pittsburgh PetConnections LLC. was formed in 2012. Our mission is to publish a high quality, informative publication focused on the Human-Animal Bond. We support local businesses and also assist local non-profit businesses for pets and people, to give back to our great Central Ohio communities.

MAGAZINE PUBLICATION STAFF Carla Mader, Managing Editor Susan Wagner, DVM, Content Editor Jaimee D. Greenawalt, Graphic Design Carla Mader, Sales & Distribution Manager Kara Jones Photography, Photography CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Our contributing writers have many years of combined experience and expertise in the fields of veterinary medicine and the Human-Animal Bond.

All Rights Reserved | Copyright 2016

Please see our event page on the inside front cover for event listings, including Paws in the Plaza, Equine Affair and more!

Matt Bilderback and High Performance Canines.

Photo by Christopher Cantin.

This Issue Our cover for this issue features Louie, a beautiful Mustang enjoying some early spring grass! We honor horses this issue, for all they have done for humans throughout our history. Also see our event page for details about Equine Affair event happening April 7-10.

Read about groundbreaking work in Equine Assisted Awareness –An Energy based Therapy

by Renee Hawley, in our Wellness for Guardian section. Also, Colic in the Horse part 2 of 3,

by Dr. Brian Burks, ABVP Board Certified Equine Expert. Also inside, 10 Top Tips for a Healthy Pet, House Training 101, and Cats Can Kick the Dry Food Habit by Dr. Doug, The Wingspan of Parrots. Also, Lights Can Prove Lethal (to migratory birds) in the Wildlife Section, by the Ohio Wildlife Center, and much more!

We thank our new sponsors, Forever Lawn of Ohio, Pawdentify, Plexidor, Kobi Collars and Glen Highland Farm.

Also, thank you to the All Life Community for Integrative Well Being for sponsoring our Wellness for Guardian section. Also, continued support from ASPCA Pet Insurance, Good Nature Lawn Care, Crystal Remembrance, Beaver Animal Clinic, Fundvelopes and Canine Health.

PetConnections supports local organizations and small business and we have established a community network of readers, writers, advertising sponsors and distribution points. Please support our advertising sponsors! See their locations on the map page. Check out our PetConnections Resource Directories for categorized listings.

The award-winning Pittsburgh PetConnections edition started publishing monthly in September of 2012-14 and is now bi-monthly and multi-regional. PetConnections has grown to be the #1 free resource for news, expert information on everything pets, as well as wellness for people with the PetConnections directories, event calendars both online and in print, in both Central Ohio and Pittsburgh. Our award-winning content was recognized by the Dog Writers Association of America.

See how PetConnections can help you market and advertise with content which supports your message with our multi-media partnership packages! Our a partnership with BENN Advertising Solutions offer more targeted and effective digital marketing and advertising campaigns to our sponsors for Central Ohio, as well as Western PA. For PetConnections Advertising inquiries contact: 412-738-4233 info@pghpetconnections.com PetConnections is also looking to grow our team with additional sales account manager professionals. We encourage you to subscribe to PetConnections Magazine, as our readership is growing! Even though PetConnections is free at select locations, reserve your personal copy to be mailed every issue! Visit www.pghpetconnections.com to subscribe today!

Submit your photos and stories, as well as remembrances to be featured online and in future issues to: info@pghpetconnections.com.

Cover photo:

By Kara Jones

Thank you for picking up this copy of PetConnections. Take care of yourself and your animals and be well this early spring season!

Warmly,

Carla Mader, Publisher - Pittsburgh & Central Ohio PetConnections Magazine Please submit any correspondence to: info@pghpetconnections.com Please check us out on the web & subscribe at: www.pghpetconnections.com Follow PghPetMag on Twitter and “Like” us on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/PghPetconnectionsMagazine www.pghpetconnections.com

3

Pet Health & Wellness

10 Top Tips for a Healthy Pet

T

here’s so much to love about having a pet, from warm cuddles on the couch to excited fourlegged dances when you come in the door. But there’s also a lot of responsibility to helping your pet stay healthy and safe.

These 10 tips can help you take great care of your pet.

1. Get Your Pet an Annual Exam One of the best things you can do for your pet’s health is to set up a check-up at least once a year. Regular exams can help your veterinarian identify health issues earlier when they can be easier to treat and the outcome can be better for your pet. They can also help make sure your pet is maintaining a healthy weight and vaccines are up-to-date.

2. Fight Fleas and Ticks These little pests can affect both dogs and cats making them itch and scratch uncontrollably. Even indoor cats can pick up fleas from other pets in the house. Be sure to examine your pet’s fur regularly for fleas and check for ticks after spending time outside.

Keep in mind that pets, particularly cats, can be sensitive to flea and tick products. It’s best to ask your veterinarian for a recommendation on safe flea and tick prevention.

3. Prevent Heartworms Heartworm larvae are transmitted through mosquito bites and then migrate to the heart and lungs where they can grow to over a foot long. Heartworms can be complicated and costly to eliminate, but are easily prevented with medication. They’re also not just an issue for dogs. Cats can contract heartworms too. You should discuss heartworm disease with your veterinarian who may recommend heartworm testing and preventative medication.

• Carefully take a peek at your pet’s mouth for unhealthy signs, like inflamed gums or broken teeth.

• Make sure your pet’s coat looks healthy (not greasy or matted) and check the skin for lumps and bumps.

You can also watch for any changes in eating, drinking, and bathroom habits. If you notice anything that concerns you, follow up with your veterinarian.

5. Brush Those Teeth It may seem like a chore to brush your pet’s teeth, but it’s important for your pet’s health.

Regular brushing helps prevent plaque build up, which can lead to issues like broken teeth and gum disease. It can also cause infections that spread through the bloodstream and impact vital organs. In addition to at home brushing, you should have your pet’s teeth examined and cleaned by your veterinarian annually.

6. Get Moving A good dose of exercise is just what the doctor ordered to help keep your pet in great shape. Exercise also helps fight boredom, which can lead to unwanted behaviors. The amount of exercise your pet needs depend on factors like breed, sex, age and level of health. Get your pet moving with fun interactive games or a brisk walk outside.

7. Battle the Bulge Obesity is a growing problem for pets and can cause serious health issues, such as joint problems, arthritis, heart disease and diabetes. Overweight pets also face increased risks during surgery. If your dog or cat has put on a few pounds, ask your veterinarian for a healthy weight loss plan that’s right for your pet.

4. Do a Home Health Check

8. Prevent Poisoning Accidents

Setting a little time aside to check your pet’s health at home can help you detect issues early on. This can be especially helpful for cats who may hide or mask their symptoms.

It’s easy to do: • Look over your pet’s eyes and ears for redness, discharge, or mites.

Keep human medications and substances that can be harmful to your pet, like cleaning products, rodenticides, antifreeze, fertilizer, and toxic plants, out of paw’s reach. Also remember never to give your pet any kind of medicine without consulting your veterinarian. Some medications, like acetaminophen

4 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | March/April 2016

By Dr. Mary Beth Leininger

and aspirin, can cause severe reactions and even be fatal for pets.

9. Treat Injuries and Illnesses Promptly If your pet is injured or shows signs of being sick, like lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the worse the symptoms might get, which can make the issue more difficult to treat. It’s also smart to ask your veterinarian who to contact and what to do if your pet gets hurt or sick after their regular hours.

10. Consider Pet Insurance There’s a lot you can do to help keep your pet healthy and safe, but your four-legged friend can still get hurt or sick unexpectedly. While you can’t predict when something might happen to your pet, you can get help covering the costs of care with pet insurance, such as ASPCA Pet Health Insurance.

Plans can cover accidents, illnesses, and wellness care. Get a free quote at www.

IsYourPetCovered.com.

One last bit of advice—don’t forget to get in lots of warm nuzzles with your pet. Cuddle time can relieve stress, which can help keep you both happy and healthy!

Products are underwritten by the United States Fire Insurance Company and administered by Fairmont Specialty Insurance Agency (FSIA Insurance Agency in CA), members of the Crum & Forster Enterprise. Hartville Pet Insurance Group℠ is a trademark of United States Fire Insurance Company. The United States Fire Insurance Company and Fairmont Specialty Insurance Agency, Inc. may be individually or collectively referred to as Hartville Pet Insurance Group℠ or Hartville.

The ASPCA does not offer insurance.

Through a strategic licensing agreement, in exchange for the use of ASPCA trademarks, the ASPCA is paid a royalty fee of up to 10% of the purchase price, with a minimum of $335,000 per year. PC

www.pghpetconnections.com

5

Directories

Visit our online directory at pghpetconnections.com/Dog-Cat-Directory

Adoption, Rescues & Shelters Almost Home Dog Rescue of OH 614-766-1001 www.almosthomeohio.org Canine Companions 1-800-572-BARK (2275) www.cci.org/northcentral Capital Area Humane Society 614-777-7387 cahs-pets.org CHA Animal Shelter 614-891-5280 chaanimalshelter.org Colony Cats Adoption Center 614-593-0055 Colonycats.org Columbus Dog Connection 614-471-9000 Columbusdogconnection.com Cozy Cat Cottage Adoption Center 614-336-8510 cozycatcottage.org Franklin County Dog Shelter & Adoption Center 614-525-3647 franklincountydogs.com Pets without Parents 614-267-7297 petswithoutparents.net/

PetButler of Central Ohio 1-800-PET-BUTLER www.petbutler.com

Pet Burial, Cremation & Memorial Services Crystal Remembrance for Pets 888-930-7363 Crystalremembranceforpets.com Day Manofsky Funeral Service 614-532-5012 Daymanofskyfuneralservice.com Rutherford Funeral Homes 614-885-4006 Rutherfordfuneralhomes.com Schoedinger Pet Services 614-224-2691 schoedingerpetservices.com

Pet Fencing

Pet Retail, Supply and Accessories Canine Health Supplements www.mylifevantage.com/peggymills Collar Doos collardoos.com Moochie & Co. moochieandco.com Pet People petpeoplestores.com Pawdentify and Links-It Collar Tags www.pawdentify.com Titan Bones www.titanbones.com Plexidor plexidors.com Kobi Collars kobicollars.com

Pharmacies

Invisible Fence 614-888-3647 www.columbuseast.invisiblefence.com Pet Stop of Ohio Columbuspetfence.com

Central Ohio Compounding Pharmacy 614-847-0109 www.compoundingpharmacycolumbus.com SBH Medical- Compounding Pharmacy 614-847-6007 www.sbhmed.com

MedVet Medical & Cancer Centers for Pets (Hilliard) 614-870-0480 medvetforpets.com

Pet Friendly Lodging

Veterinary Medicine

Dog Parks

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance 1-888-716-1203 aspcapetinsurance.com

Avian & Exotics

Alum Creek Dog Park www.alumcreekdogpark.com Companion Club Dog Park 740-881-2000 www.columbusdogpark.com Godown Road Dog Park www. worthingtondogpark.com Heritage Trail Dog Park www.hilliardohio.gov/play/heritage-trail-dog-park Pizzurro Park and “Dog Park� www.gahanna.gov/departments/parks/ communityParks.aspx

Equestrian Central Ohio Riding Club 614-873-6644 centralohioridingclub.com Equus Now! 740-549-4959 Equusnow.com OSU Veterinary Medical Center 614-292-6661 vet.osu.edu/vmc/

Landscaping & Lawncare Forever Lawn 844.614.TURF(8873) foreverlawnohio.com Good Nature Organic Lawn Care 888-529-6723 www.whygoodnature.com 6 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | March/April 2016

The Getaway at Glen Highland Farm Glenhighlandgeatway.com

Pet Insurance

Pet Resorts- Boarding, Daycare, Grooming, Agility & Training ARF! Agility and Rally for Fun! www.arfagility.com Advanced Boarding & Grooming 740-549-9999 advancedboardingandgrooming.com Camp Bow Wow 614-527-2267 campbowwow.com K9 Connection 614-778-0431 www.k9connectiononline.com Park Your Paws Doggie Daycare 614-262-PAWS www.parkyourpaws.org Pet Palace Pet Boarding Resort petpalaceresort.com The Dog Spaw Pet Grooming 614-245-4169 thedogspawsalon.com/ Willow Wood Pet Resort & Training Center 614-304-1921 petresortwillowwood.com

List your business today! info@pghpetconnections.com

Elemental Veterinary Center & Pet Spa 614-824-4036 elementalvetcenter.com Lifetime Pet Wellness Center 614-888-2100 lifetimepetwellness.com Health & Harmony Animal Hospital 614-360-3941 healthandharmonyanimalhospital.com The Animal Care Center at Granville 740-587-2229 www.animalcarecentergranville.com

Veterinary Specialty and Emergency MedVet Medical & Cancer Centers for Pets 614-846-5800 medvetforpets.com OSU Veterinary Medical Center 614-292-3551 vet.osu.edu/vmc/

Wellness for Guardians:

The All Life Community for Integrative Well Being 740-201-8242 www.alllifecenter.org

Wildlife Columbus Zoo and Aquarium www.columbuszoo.org Ohio Wildlife Center 614-793-WILD ohiowildlifecenter.org SCRAM! Wildlife Control ohiowildlifecenter.org The Wilds www.thewilds.columbuszoo.org

1st Prize

1,000 lbs of Your Brand of Dog Food plus a PlexiDor Performance Pet Door

2nd Prize PlexiDor Performance Pet Door with installation and a $25 VISA Gift Card

3rd Prize

Pet Stop Columbus We sell and install PlexiDor Pet Doors, a perfect complement to our underground fencing systems.

Ask us about replacing your old flap door with a

PlexiDor® Performance Pet Door.

Gift Box of Dog Toys, Treats and Chews Visit PlexiDors.com for contest details and to upload your photo.

Enter Code: 406 No purchase necessary. Monthly prizes awarded.

Entering automatically enrolls you into our monthly contest for a Gift Box of Toys, Treats and Chews. Woof!

Enter at PlexiDors.com

Authorized Dealer and Installer For more information, call or visit us online: 614-486-8227 | ColumbusPetFence.com

Say goodbye to cold concrete, gravel, mulch, muddy yards, and dirty paws—K9Grass is the solution you have been looking for.

K9Grass.com Safe • Drainable • Cleanable • Durable

Call today for your free consultation:

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The artificial grass designed specifically for dogs! www.pghpetconnections.com

7

Holistic Pet Care

CATS CAN KICK THE DRY FOOD ADDICTION

By Doug Knueven, DVM, CVA, CVC, CVCH

D

ry cat food is the very worst thing anyone can feed a cat – no matter how natural it is said to be.

Studies show that kitty kibble causes a mild dehydration of the pet which damages the kidneys and can predispose to urinary crystals. The starch required to make dry food is also unhealthy for cats since they are carnivores.

In my view, the best food for cats is a balanced raw diet. Unfortunately, cats tend to be very finicky about their foods. In fact, cats become imprinted on the food they are first fed. They can even become addicted to the shape of the kibble. That’s why each pet food company makes their kitty kibble in distinct shapes.

The companies also spray the surface of the kibble with “animal digest” which is similar to MSG and has a taste cats can’t resist. I liken this to Doritos. I personally do not care much for plain old corn chips.

However, when those same chips are sprayed with that Doritos coating, I can’t resist. Similarly, the cat’s natural proclivity to eat a healthy diet is hijacked by the technology of flavor enhancers.

8 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | March/April 2016

I have personal experience with switching finicky felines to raw. Several years ago I inherited my parents’ cats and these kitties were dry food junkies. When I put raw food in front of them they looked up at me and said, “We can’t eat this. Are you trying to kill us?” Well, my other cats were all eating raw food so I told the newcomers, “You’re going to have to eat this food like everyone else.” Day and night I put a bowl of raw food in front of them, and each time they turned their noses up.

By day three of their hunger strike I think I heard them say, “We’d rather die than eat that raw food.” By the way, although a healthy cat can miss a meal or two, a

cat that does not eat for three days can go into liver failure and die, so I do not recommend the starvation method of food transition. Because of this learning experience, taught by a couple of pros, I have come up with the following finicky cat transition technique.

The companies also spray the surface of the kibble with “animal digest” which is similar to MSG and has a taste cats can’t resist.

The first step is to get him on a twicea-day feeding schedule. No matter what your cat may tell you, he does not need a bowl full of food sitting out all day. If he were in the wild, he would not have dead mice lying around to eat. In fact, he would have to get his butt off the couch and catch a mouse. And, if he missed that mouse, he would go without a meal.

So first thing in the morning, you put ½ of your cat’s daily ration in the bowl and put it down for him to eat. If your cat is like most, he is likely to eat a few pieces and walk away, confident it will be there later. But, it will not be there later. Let the bowl of food stay down for 15-20 minutes and then put it up and away.

Then, in the evening when you put a bowl with the other ½ of the daily ration down, your cat is very likely to finish it off. He will

Once your cat adjusts to the new aroma, mix the raw food in with a small amount of the dry on the bottom of the bowl.

That way, if he wants to get a whole belly full of food, he’ll have to eat some that is touching the raw food. Now, very gradually mix in more and more of the raw and less and less of the dry. After a month or so of this process, you should have a totally raw-fed cat. An additional step to this process that some cats benefit from is to first make the gradual switch from dry to canned cat food and then gradually switch from canned to raw.

quickly (within a few days) get into the new rhythm of eating. (If you have more than one cat, feed them separately and in different rooms if necessary).

It may be best to start the feeding schedule during the week when people are not in the house to hear the cat complain about the lack of readily available vittles. And, if you are home for the transition and your cat does complain, do not give in. Giving him food when he gets loud and obnoxious will only reinforce the unwanted behavior. You must resist the temptation to give in to your cat’s demands.

Now that your cat is used to eating morning and night, it’s time to start add-

ing the raw food. With each feeding, put a teaspoon of raw food on the bottom of the food bowl and put the dry food of top. That way, your kitty won’t have to touch the raw food but he’ll smell it with every bite of dry food he takes.

Considering the sensitivity of the feline nose, this is a big step.

For many cats, the owner has to really want to see their companion eating a healthy, raw diet. It takes persistence and a slightly deaf ear, but it can be done. If I can make raw eaters out of my parents’ cats, I know you can do the same for your kitty. PC

Dr. Doug

The Holistic Vet Sign up for Dr. Doug’s blog and get free weekly holistic pet health insights

Holistic and Conventional Care

Check it out today at http://drdougknueven.com and see what you’ve been missing!

Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 9-8; Fri. 9-5; Sat. 9-3; Sun. Closed 357 State Avenue | Beaver, PA 15009

724-774-8047

beaveranimalclinic.com www.pghpetconnections.com

9

Canine Companion

House Training 101

By Tena Parker, CPDT-KA, Success Just Clicks Dog Training

P

otty talk, it’s not pretty but it’s important! The number one reason dogs are surrendered to shelters is because of inappropriate peeing and/or pooping in the house. Many owners don’t realize it that takes time and effort to house train a dog and that very young puppies have to develop the ability to “hold it.”

Contrary to some old wives’ tales, all dogs, regardless of size, breed, or sex can learn to reliably eliminate in an appropriate place. I prefer to teach dogs to eliminate outside.

However, a faux-grass potty patch may be appropriate in some apartment situations that have limited outdoor access. Dogs or puppies that are from puppy mills (typically sold through a third-party pet store) sometimes have a harder time learning to potty in appropriate places because the conditions they lived in for the first few weeks (or years) of life prevented them from learning to potty away from where they eat and sleep.

side to potty because that, for some reason unknown to them, makes their person really excited!

There are four main aspects to easily and successfully house training your new puppy or new adult dog: correct equipment, rules, proper management, and training process.

As Bandit becomes reliable with only eliminating outside, I can slowly give him more space to play while unattended by attaching an exercise pen to his crate.

Correct Equipment House training is all about teaching a preference for peeing and pooping outside (or in your designated spot) and building a pattern of behavior. To do that, the most important piece is to prevent accidents inside the house at all costs—if they never have a chance to potty in the house, they will not develop a preference for staying inside to eliminate. By preventing accidents and heavily praising and rewarding eliminating outside, the dog learns to prefer to go out-

• E nzymatic Cleaner—You want to make sure that you are using an enzymatic cleaner on any accident spots to break down the proteins left behind so Fido can’t smell them and go back to the same spot.

• Containment Unit—Using an appropriately sized crate (just large enough for the dog to stand, lay, turn around, and sit) and/or an exercise pen makes house training so much easier by providing a space where your puppy can be unattended where he/ she will not potty. Alternatively, using a leash clipped onto the dog and tied to a person’s waist/belt can be helpful so the puppy can’t wander off to potty.

Rules

For house training purposes, this crate is just about perfect for Bandit. There isn’t enough space for him to potty in one spot and lay in another.

10 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | March/April 2016

1. U nder absolutely no circumstances should your dog be unsupervised when they are not in their x-pen, crate, or tethered to a person. If you are not actively watching your dog, they should not have access to the house. They can have freedom when you are playing with them, training them, cuddling them, or after they have eliminated outside.

2. D o not scold your dog if you find evidence of an accident after the fact—your dog will have no idea why you are yelling and will just be scared of you.

3. Do not scold your dog if you catch them in the act—they can easily learn that peeing in front of you is bad (but that’s not the same as “peeing inside is bad”).

Management: • G et your puppy or dog on a feeding schedule. Feed at two to three specific times each day. When they are fed on a schedule, they will need to potty on a more predictable schedule.

• Get your pup on a potty schedule. Provide predictable times when your pup will have a chance to potty outside. For young puppies, this may be an hourly trip outside to potty or for older dogs, it might be every two hours. As they are successful, you can lengthen the time between outdoor opportunities.

• Only allow your dog “freedom” (in a room with you) immediately after he/she has eliminated outside. If she/he hasn’t eliminated outside, he/she hasn’t earned freedom so should remain tethered or in the crate/exercise pen.

The Potty Training Process: • T ake your puppy outside while on the leash and go to the same area where you’d like them to potty. Walk around in a small area for approximately 5 to 10 minutes.

• If your dog pees or poops: throw them a party—“What an amazing dog! You are so good! YAYYYY!!!” Your dog has then earned either a walk around your neighborhood, some out of the crate time with you, or some play time.

• If your dog does not potty: take him/ her back inside and send them back into their containment equipment. If you know the dog needs to potty, wait about 5 to 15 minutes and then try again. If you aren’t sure the dog NEEDS to go, you can wait longer (30 to 60 minutes) and then try again.

• R epeat that process frequently and be patient. If your dog has not eliminated outside, do not give them freedom inside because they will find a place to eliminate inside.

House Training 101 continued on page 19...

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11

Feathered Friends

The Cost of a Parrot: The Fee for Free

By Karrie Noterman the next adorable photo of Pele, my umbrella boy, I could see them fall even more in love with the idea of bringing home baby.

When they asked me how much I paid for him, they were stunned at my reply.

I told them I adopted him from a rescue organization, and it was clear they thought they had struck gold. A free bird – now they could finally have that cockatoo they had

always wanted! They gave me a brief story of their financial difficulties and how they could never afford to buy one, so they needed one for free. Not having time nor the desire to engage in a lengthy conversation about the commitments of parrot ownership, I let them slide back to the screen to watch one more round of “free birds.”

It was interesting to see that although the photos centered on the birds, there was almost no recognition of their surroundings. It made me stop to think about how much my free bird really cost….I was shocked! Pele’s indoor cage was over $1000. His outdoor aviary, which is nothing short of mandatory for such a high energy animal, was $2490 delivered. Those were $2495 tdoor aviary. ou big chunks, but I knew that s hi ng yi jo atoo, Pele, en Umbrella cock going in. The really surprising part of it all was the monthly upkeep. His toys alone, many reused and home made to save ll my birds were money, still cost between $300free” I repeated $500 per year. Of course he again to the couloves the expensive pine nuts ple staring across and unshelled pecans at $7.99 / the table at me. I was at a bird lb. The dry food, the Harrisons show in Columbus, Ohio where birdy bread, daily fresh fruits a group of people were watchMoluccan cockatoo busy playing in his 86”x62” medium Centurion and veggies and his must have walk-in aviary. $1495 ing a slide show of my birds nutriberry before bed cost $50 on a laptop. It was supposed $80 every single month. Slowly to be showing off the products it dawned on me that I did not I was selling, but these determined When they asked me own a free bird; I had simply leased one! soon-to-be bird owners were far more I paid for him every month without fail. how much I paid for him, interested in the adorable cockatoos and they were stunned at beautiful macaws in the pictures. They The more I thought about it, the more I had obviously worked their way past my reply.

I told them I realized that getting a parrot is a heck of several tables of colorful birds quietly adopted him from a rescue a lot like getting a car. There is that big noting their price tags. Most were several initial hit (or at least there should be if hundred, but the three month old baby organization, and it was you are properly setting up your bird) for umbrella cockatoo that had captivated a cage, outdoor aviary, travel carrier, and clear they thought they them was $1400. As the pictures rotated initial cage decorations. every 3 seconds on the screen revealing had struck gold.

“A

12 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | March/April 2016

Two green cheek conures loving all their toys in a 61”x61” small Centurion walk-in aviary. $1299

Then there are those constant ongoing payments for destructible toys and food - similar to gas and my monthly insurance bill. As I looked at my industrious parrot gnawing relentlessly on the $190 Atom play gym he was supervising from, I continued on, amused with my new auto analogy. Play gyms are like those bigger expenses that you know are coming at regular intervals, like new brakes and tires.

And then there are those major things that break out of the blue that drain every last ounce of money and sanity from your life. I thought back frowning to last year when a freak snowstorm collapsed the roof of the aviary. Then there was this January where I came downstairs to find him a bloody mess. $1100 later the

Severe macaw, congo african grey, and double yellow headed amazon happily share a 110”x62” Centurion large walk-in aviary. $1999

vet diagnosed him with Folliculitis. 3 weeks later my umbrella was back to normal, but my bank balance was not! The costs of owning a parrot are ongoing forever. I decided to name my next parrot Money Pit, or perhaps I would just get another car instead.

Although I tell my parrots each day they are priceless to me.

It turns out that free does have a price. PC

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13

Wildlife

Lights Can Prove Lethal

By Dusty Lombardi of Ohio Wildlife Center

Y

ou could make an impact on migratory birds by just flipping a switch! This year marks 100 years of bird conservation in North America. Ohio Wildlife Center plans to showcase this important centennial milestone in wildlife conservation by raising local awareness for migratory birds traveling throughout central Ohio.

How Migratory Birds Impact Us Migratory birds help connect people with nature and allow anyone, at any age, the opportunity to have a “moment” out in nature always unique to that particular space and time. Unlike a turtle, snake or even mammal with distinct home ranges, a migratory bird can at any time fly off to a new place.

Migratory birds have key roles in the environment. Many migratory birds disperse seed and are important to natural pollination systems across a region. Traveling birds also help with rodent and insect control along their routes. Studying these birds is key to understanding the world around us and humans of all ages need constant reminders of the need to minimize the 14 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | March/April 2016

negative impact we have on our wildlife.

Many species of songbirds rely on constellations to help them navigate to and from their summer breeding grounds throughout the country. Excessive lighting can cause these migrating birds to become disoriented which is a phenomenon known as fatal light attraction. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture this phenomenon has led to the death of an estimated

Migratory birds have key roles in the environment.

Many migratory birds disperse seed and are important to natural pollination systems across a region.

Traveling birds also help with rodent and insect control along their routes.

500 million to a billion birds annually in the United States through collisions with windows, walls, floodlights or the ground.

Treaty Becomes Law Signed on August 16, 1916, the Migratory Bird Treaty initiated the concerted effort between the United States and Great Britain to recognize protection needed

for birds traveling across political boundaries and international borders. The later Migratory Bird Treaty Act was signed in U.S. law in 1918 to institutionalize federal protection and shine a light on the importance of avian diversity and related habitats.

Staff and Volunteers Help Interpret Law Ohio Wildlife Center’s mission is to foster awareness and appreciation of Ohio’s native wildlife. One way the Ohio Wildlife Center supports its mission of fostering awareness and appreciation of Ohio’s native wildlife is by answering the estimated 14,000 calls each year that come in on the free information line 614793-WILD. Ohio Wildlife Center staff and

How You Can Help

volunteers educate callers on why a wild bird cannot be kept as a pet, why a nest should be left alone, eggs should not be moved and why technically they can’t even collect certain feathers.

Similar to the wildlife information line, the education programming efforts of the Ohio Wildlife Center also focus on the human and wildlife dynamic. Professional educators present more than 250 programs each year helping children and adults alike explore their personal role in the plight of local Ohio wildlife.

Commissioner Supports Initiative Franklin County Commissioner Paula Brooks is spearheading the initiative to implement the “Dr. Burton Central Ohio Lights Out Program”, coordinated by the Ohio Lights Out Program in conjunction with the Ohio Wildlife Center.

Commissioner Brooks explains, “Our goal is to protect migrating birds by encouraging building owners, managers, and residents to reduce exterior decorative lighting and unnecessary interior lighting during the peak seasons of bird migration.”

Homeowners can visit lightsoutcolumbus.org to register their home for the project, and encourage family members, friends and neighbors to join in. Companies you do business with are also important in this effort, so consider reaching out to them to see if they will join.

If a bird does strike the window of your home, there are simple things you can do to help: -Observe the bird for 30 minutes from a safe distance to prevent secondary predators from harming the animal.

Much like when a human hits their head, the bird may just be “shocked” and need a moment to recover.

If bird impacts are a repeat problem, learn more about permanent solutions at ohiowildlifecenter.org.

Since 1984 Ohio Wildlife Center has educated more than 100,000 young people and treated more than 80,000 sick, injured or orphaned wild animals. The Wildlife Hospital is a free community resource which costs $250,000 annually.

For additional information about Ohio Wildlife Center visit www.ohiowildlifecenter.org. Please call the Center’s monitored information hotline at 614-793-WILD for assistance with common wildlife situations.

You can reach SCRAM! Wildlife Control at 614-763-0696. All proceeds from SCRAM! services support Ohio Wildlife Center’s non-profit rehabilitation and conservation education efforts. PC

-After 30 minutes slowly approach the bird. If it does not fly away it is likely injured and in need of care. The Ohio Wildlife Center’s Hospital is located in Columbus and accepts wild animals free of charge, although donations for care are appreciated. Transport the bird in a large paper bag that is sealed at the top to prevent risk of the bird escaping from the bag into your car.

www.pghpetconnections.com

15

Equine Affairs

Equine Colic Part 2

By Brian S. Burks, DVM, Dipl. ABVP, Board Certified Equine Expert Fox Run Equine Center

T

he first part of the article discussed colic as a variety of symptoms coming from abdominal pain. Not all of the symptoms may be presented by an individual, but even mild symptoms should not be ignored.

Many horses with signs of colic improve to normal on their own; however, abdominal pain can lead to a sequence of events worsening the problem. Mechanical obstruction from a twisted, displaced, or badly impacted colon can quickly result in shock and death. It is critical to understand that more severe types of colic require immediate veterinary attention in the form of intensive care or surgery.

Call your veterinarian at the first sign of abdominal pain.

Abdominal pain may be classified into the following groups: • I ntestinal Dysfunction: Approximately 60% with colic signs have a ‘simple’ colic resulting from intestinal spasm, accumulation of gas, or a mild impaction. There are some cases that will need more intensive treatment.

• I nflammation or Ulceration: Inflammation of the intestinal tract can cause abdominal pain. Intestinal inflammation may result from infection or parasitism. Gastric or colonic ulcers may also cause colic signs.

• I ntestinal accidents: This group often requires abdominal surgery or intensive care or both. Included in this group are intestinal displacements or twists, or entrapment of bowel in a tight space. This includes lipoma and epiploic foramen entrapment.

16 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | March/April 2016

The best thing to do with a horse experiencing colic is to call the veterinarian immediately to discuss the situation, assess the patient, and make decisions early in the course of the disease.

DO NOT administer any medications on your own.

Nasogastric intubation can provide information regarding the stomach and small intestine and can be used to provide enteral fluids and medications. Rectal palpation will determine if the abdomen is normal or abnormal. If abnormal, is it medical or surgical? The position of the intestine is determined, along with any fluid or gas. Abdominocentesis (belly tap) is used to collect and evaluate fluid from around the intestinal tract and other abdominal organs. This provides information regarding the health of the intestinal tract. Blood work, ultrasound, and other diagnostics are often used to garner additional information.

THE VETERINARY EXAMINATION Any examination begins with signalment (age, breed, sex) and history. This is because certain disorders are more common in certain breeds or ages. The responsiveness to pain-relieving medication is assessed. Vital signs are taken, and intestinal sounds are found to be present or absent.

Experienced veterinarians gather and assimilate this information to come up with a likely diagnosis and treatment plan. Treatment is specific to the diagnosed problem with the GIT. This may include fluids, pain medications, antibiotics, ulcer medication, and laxatives.

Enemas are generally effective only in foals. Sometimes intensive care and/or

emergency abdominal exploration may be necessary.

• U tilize a consistent feeding and management routine.

The best thing to do with a horse experiencing colic is to call the veterinarian immediately to discuss the situation, assess the patient, and make decisions early in the course of the disease. DO NOT administer any medications on your own. This may mask symptoms that need immediate treatment or the wrong medication may be given, making the situation worse.

For instance, Acepromazine is a peripheral vasodilator that will alter the blood supply to the intestinal tract, compromising it further.

• Provide turn out or frequent exercise.

• S plit meals into smaller amounts, i.e. feed 4-6 small meals per day, rather than two big meals.

• Feed high quality hay.

• M inimize the amount of grain fed, only using it for horses in active work.

Pasture pets do NOT need grain.

• I mplement a veterinarian-established parasite control program.

• Provide constant access to clean, fresh water.

• Monitor late gestation mares and those that have had previous episodes of colic.

Generally, all grain and hay should be removed until the situation is resolved, but water should be provided in most cases. Horses that lie quietly should be left alone. Some hand-walking will help to restore normal intestinal motility and distract the horse from the pain. It may distract you, too. Too much walking will tire the horse unnecessarily and impede healing. Close observation is paramount, even after the Veterinarian leaves. stantly active over 100s of acres, moving, grazing, and eating small and frequent meals of coarse grass. The intestinal tract was designed for this lifestyle. Then humans came along. Horses may be confined to a stall and fed a couple of meals per day. This works against normal intestinal function.

PREVENTION Colic is still the number one cause of death in horses. Domestic horses evolved from wild horses. Wild horses were con-

Management practices should attempt to imitate the wild horse state as much as is practical. Colic can occur in even the most well managed horses, but good care will help to minimize the occurrence of abdominal pain. All horse owners should provide the following:

By understanding the horse, and with proper management, colic may be prevented or minimized. Horses affected by abdominal pain should be treated early in the course of the disease to maximize the chances of saving your horse. Call your veterinarian.

Dr. Brian Burks, Dipl. ABVP is the owner/ veterinarian at Fox Run Equine Center, a 24-hour medical-surgical center near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (Equine Practice).

This certifies him as an expert in all categories of equine practice. He enjoys the diagnostic and treatment challenges of internal medicine, surgery, and ophthalmology.

Find out more and contact us at: www. foxrunrequine.com, brianburksdvm@ comcast.net 724-727-3481 PC

• S lowly change management and feeding regimens.

www.pghpetconnections.com

17

Wellness for Guardians Section sponsored by the All Life Community for Integrative Well Being

Equine Assisted Awareness — an Energy Based Therapy

By Renee Hawley

“Nothing ever goes away until it has taught us what we need to know” Pema Chodron

H

orses have been healing people for centuries. There is much written as to why horses are helpful in the therapy setting. Horses command respect by nature of their size and strength. They are also finely tuned prey animals and wizards at nonverbal communication. Traditional models of equine assisted psychotherapy utilize horses as objects of projection, playing out relationship patterns with real-time feedback from a living being. All of the above are true, yet there’s so much more to learn if you study the art and science of psychotherapy with equine partners.

I agree wholeheartedly with all of the frameworks others have worked hard to put in place around this powerful treatment option.

Amazing people and organizations are doing superb work with horses as therapy partners.

Now the plot twist. Horses bring spiritual healing that has nothing to do with projection or attributing human healing traits to them. Horses heal on a core level by providing energy that shifts us into a heartcentered space. This energy puts humans in the highest vibration possible, and changes them on a cellular, physiological, and hormonal level. I do not mean to imply that horses always bring clients to a comfortable, soft place. Many times our highest good - our core healing - is uncomfortable, challenging, frightening and exactly what we need. Horses will take us where we must go rather than where we want to go.

Horses show us our negative patterns, provide us with a chance to see and acknowledge them, as well as what lies behind them. Once understood, we can change our engrained responses. The horses also provide 18 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | March/April 2016

an experience of feeling what it is like to live in a healed space. From there it is always our choice to move forward. With a boost of horse power, we can use our connection to their energy to support us in our choices, and create positive change. We learn in this powerful heart-centered way how to come back into ourselves, how to resolve the trauma and traumatic patterns of our lives, how to address the original wound entanglement. Horses provide the space and place for this to happen, ongoing, on multiple levels in our lives.

Equine Partners in Healing Trauma Trauma is a lightning bolt to the system -all aspects of our nature are knocked out of alignment - emotional, physical and spiritual. The lightning strike does not have to be from an outside entity. It can come through familial and ancestral patterns (generational trauma). These patterns run deep and hang on tightly. Individuals and families spend life reworking and re-experiencing the trauma, which has it’s own energy. This feels “normal” so we create more trauma at the same time we are trying to heal it.

Extensive work by eminent brain researcher and neurosurgeon, Dr. Karl Pribram, has helped advance the understanding of the emotional system. Some of his wisdom is as follows: “One of the functions of the amygdala is to organize what patterns become “familiar” to the brain. If the rhythm patterns generated by the heart are disordered and incoherent, especially in early life, the

amygdala learns to expect disharmony as the familiar baseline; and thus we feel “at home” with incoherence, which can affect learning, creativity and emotional balance.

In other words, we feel “comfortable” only with internal incoherence, which is really discomfort.” The internal incoherence from complex and developmental trauma become patterns that people are drawn to over and over again, unless the body, heart, mind and soul are able to be in a harmonious rhythm.

Horses are the Masters of creating a heartcentered alignment, which lasts long after the therapy ends.

A typical session may look like this: Participants watch a group of horses interact freely with one another. After several minutes, the participants begin to talk about what they see, how they feel, and with which horse they feel most connected. Individual views and projections may come into play during the discussion. What is really happening, though, is that the horses are providing a common pattern for the group to see.

Many times the horses are the first to bring this particular theme to a person’s awareness. This theme exists among all the participants, yet the herd is also able to play it out for each individual. For example, one horse is bullied by the others, illuminating the victimization felt by the participants in various aspects of their own lives. They then interact directly with the horses, whose energy provides opportunity for additional awareness.

Participants may even begin to shift their patterns through interacting with the horses.

Healing continues long after the session is complete.

This entire process is guided by the horses.

We can shift patterns, trauma and our history by tapping into the herd energy. Feel free to call on their wisdom and guidance. PC

House Training 101 continued from page 10...

Troubleshooting: My dog is peeing outside and either peeing or pooping almost immediately upon coming inside…

If your dog is frequently urinating, go to a vet to check for a urinary tract infection.

If your dog has done one, but not the other outside, don’t give him freedom yet (scheduled feeding can help you know what to expect from your dog), give him another opportunity outside.

My dog is running off to potty in the house where I can’t see them…

Go back to rule #1. If your dog can run off and pee where you can’t see them, you aren’t supervising well enough and they have too much freedom.

Call: 614-937-8309 www.lifevantage.com/peggymills#canine

Ending thoughts: A few weeks of restricted freedom can help set your dog up for potty training success. After all, a few weeks of limited freedom are well worth it when the result is a house trained dog who can have a lifetime of freedom. Always remember, that if you are having troubles, the guidance of a skilled and experienced trainer can help you get on the right track! PC

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19

Equine Affairs

Unbreakable Bond, Unwavering Mirror

M

y first love was Prince Casabree, a 6-year old chestnut Arabian horse with a blaze face and the spirit of a wild angel. He was boarded at Old National Trail, a state park in Vandalia, Ohio where I helped my mother muck out stalls for the occasional chance to take a riding lesson or trail ride.

I appreciated all of the horses, but Sabree (his nickname) was special, possessing some magic that went beyond his obvious beauty. True to Arabian form, he would toss his elegant head in the air, dancing along as if averse to fully landing, tail proudly held high.

Though gentle as a lamb on the ground, he was not one to be toyed with under saddle. His owner, Tracy, was a flight attendant and could not ride him as often as she wanted or he needed. He was as green as spring grass, with boundless energy, and he needed to be worked. And so, my mother entered into a lease agreement with Tracy that allowed my sister and I to give him the exercise he needed while she was in the air.

Sabree turned out to be a real handful, even after several full summers of near daily work. He challenged me at every turn, his wild spirit ever seeking to break free and be more fully embodied. Despite the challenges, we had tremendous fun. I was only a few years older than he, and so we were more like two innocent children playing than horse and rider.

Sabree and I formed a deep bond, and through my difficult and lonely adolescence, he became my best friend and reason for living. In time, Tracy visited Sabree less and less, but was well pleased with his health and happiness under our care. In gratitude, she gave him to us as a gift, one that in all my days I will never forget.

Several years went by and my interest in riding increased along with my skill. I dreamed of showing at the Kentucky Horse Show in three day eventing.

Sabree was small, not far from being classified as a pony, but he loved to jump. With seemingly springloaded legs, he beat well-bred hunters much taller than him in local shows. He was utterly confident, willing to jump most anything I pointed him toward, and our courage and youthful verve lent itself well to competing in the jumping arena.

20 CENTRAL OHIO PETCONNECTIONS | March/April 2016

By Carisa Holmes, HHA

When it came to dressage, however, we struggled. In dressage, the horse performs controlled, ballet-like movements and holds its head firmly set in a low, “on the bit” position. It is not a comfortable head set, especially for an Arabian horse with naturally high head carriage. Sabree resisted this repressive dressage work, having no desire to bow his head and perform subtle tricks. He wanted to run and hold his head high. He wanted to be free.

And so, for a time in dressage we tried a martingale, a device that prevents a horse from throwing its head by restricting range of motion with leather straps. Since neither one of us liked dressage or the martingale, after each lesson I’d remove it and we’d take off bareback onto the trails, disappearing from the world and all its judgements.

We never got far enough in dressage to enter the Kentucky Horse Show, so we kept Sabree for pleasure riding. When I graduated Stivers Music Magnet junior high and was accepted at the Colonel White High School for the Arts, time I’d spent riding became time for rehearsal and practice. Riding took a back seat to my second love, music, that filled my heart in new, creative ways.

When I was 26 my mother died of cancer, and the responsibility of paying Sabree’s board and vet bills fell on me. Unable to afford the additional expense, I talked with Patty Carnahan, a woman whom had been giving Sabree the exercise and attention he needed by using him as a lesson horse. Patty offered to buy him, but I told her Sabree been a gift to me, and he would be my gift to her and the young students who loved him. Though I knew she would care well for him at a time when I was too poor and eaten up by grief to do so, it hurt deeply to let him go.

Recently, I began working with massage therapist Diane Richards, and after a few sessions we came to realize the tension in my neck muscles and a few ribs would resolve during massage, only to come right back. Diane spoke up during a session, “I feel lot of energy and emotion in your neck, like frustration, every time I work on it.”

“I’ve been feeling like my head is tethered to my collarbone.” I shared, “It’s interfering with my singing, and nothing seems to help.”

That day I came home and sat quietly to contemplate. At one point, my mind raced back to my riding days, and then it hit me; I feel like I’m wearing a martingale! Everywhere in my body that I had unexplained chronic tension was related to where the martingale had restricted Sabree. My head feeling tethered to my collarbone corresponded to how the martingale would have been strapped to his chest, and where it clipped to the saddle would have matched the tight spots in my ribs.

As I often do when I get an “ah ha” moment, I started doing EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) tapping. I invited Sabree to join me for “surrogate tapping”, and that anything he had felt at that time was welcome to come through me and be acknowledged and released.

You see, we were bonded. There could be no separating us in our riding experience, and so, there could be no separating us in our healing process. We were in this together.

Through my tapping, I realized that I had tried to repress the very thing that made him the most beautiful horse. By tying up his spirit with a martingale, I was trying to stop him from being himself and to turn him into something that dressage judges wanted to see. He was not a dressage horse, he was a wild angel, a healer meant not to bow his head, but to raise it high like the noble creature he was by birth.

I sat on my sofa and cried for how I had twisted him into an inauthentic form. I mourned for innocence lost, for stolen freedom, and felt the sharpness of ignorance shattering into knowing. I concluded my session with a forgiveness meditation, visualizing both of us freed of any bonds that no longer serve.

Now, each time that I have a massage with Diane, the work holds. My vocal control has improved and I continue to ask myself: is my own spirit free to express itself authentically, or am I repressing my own magnificence?

Our beloved animals are our unwavering mirrors. If we have the courage to look into that mirror, we can see more of ourselves and heal more of ourselves than we ever could alone. I am forever grateful. PC Carisa Holmes, HHA All Life Center Content Manager Creative Power Coach, Author & Artist www.CarisaHolmes.com

In Remembrance

Moo

By Martha Orbovich at an arcade. He loved kale, and Eli cracked me up often when he’d say, “Look at da Moo Moo, viciously attacking his kale.” Moo’s favorite time of day must have been at bedtime when we would gather around him and pet him. He’d put his chin all the way down on the floor in what seemed like total relaxation.

I always considered a bunny like a hamster or a gerbil: Cute, but not somebody to fall in love with like a dog or cat. But, we all loved our Moo. And while Moo loved my older son and me, we both agreed that he loved Eli most of all.

Love da Moo Moo!

Let’s get the sad stuff over with right away. Our little lop-eared bunny, Moo, lived with us for only about a year before we had him euthanized due to a large mass that had formed in his abdomen.

Since they are animals of prey, bunnies hide their illnesses so well that their owners sometimes don’t know they’re sick until it’s too late. That’s what happened with Moo, and in fact my 14-year old son Eli noticed Moo’s weight loss much sooner than I would have.

Moo was first adopted by a college student who was a friend of my boyfriend, so sometimes when she was away at school, we’d foster him for a couple weeks at a time. Well, the times when he was with us grew longer, and the times he was at his “real” home became shorter. My two teenage sons and I were growing quite attached. I checked quietly with his first family and they wanted us to keep him.

It was the Christmas season and I had an Elf on a Shelf that I “tormented” to get laughs out of my two boys, so on Christmas morning I put the Elf next to a sign on Moo’s cage that read something like, “You people are crazy and I am outta here. But this bunny, on the other hand, is staying! Please welcome the newest member of your family, Moo. ” My guys said Moo was the best present they ever received.

The bunny of many nicknames (da Moo Moo, The Mooster, Moo moo moo moo moo) entertained us daily with his hopping and sniffing and eating.

We likened his eating to a ticket muncher

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Dr. Doug

The Holistic Vet Dr. Doug Knueven

practices an integrative approach to pet care. He is well versed in conventional veterinary medicine and has been licensed since 1987. He is also certified in acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and chiropractic. He is a member of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association and has advanced training in natural nutrition, massage therapy, homeopathy and a host of other alternative therapies.

Beaver Animal Clinic We at Beaver Animal Clinic believe in the power of caring.

Caring for our patients as our own pets.

Caring for our clients as our friends.

Caring for each other as our family.

Holistic and Conventional Care:

• Full Service Animal Clinic • Preventive Health Care • General Surgery • Radiology • Dentistry • Holistic Care • Acupuncture • Vaccine & Vaccine Counseling • Nutrition Counseling & Natural Raw Diets • Chinese Herbal Medicine • Therapeutic Laser • Healing Touch & Massage Therapy

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Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 9-8; Fri. 9-5; Sat. 9-3; Sun. Closed 357 State Avenue | Beaver, PA 15009

724-774-8047

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