All About Pets 2016

ALL ABOUT

P PETS S

May 29, 2016 May 29, 2016

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ALL ABOUT PETS 1

by Dr. Susan Wight, DVM

Rattlesnakes

Spring is nearly over and summer is just around the corner. As the weather warms, more people and their pets will venture out and encounter a common inhabitant of our area: the Prairie Rattlesnake.

This snake is not as aggressive as other species of rattlesnakes in other parts of the country, but it will bite if surprised or agitated by a curious canine or feline (or human, for that matter!). They tend to rattle a warning if something approaches too closely, and this rattle is sometimes what attracts our furry friends to their detriment. We have had patients bitten along the bike trail in Loveland and Fort Collins, along the Devil’s Backbone trail, east of the cities and even in backyards near rural areas.

We can start to see rattlesnake bite victims as early as March (if it is warmer) and as late as October (if it stays warm). There is no particular time of day when a bite is more likely, but during the hotter times of day snakes tend to be hiding under bushes, rocks, buildings, etc, trying to escape the heat of the day. During the cooler morning and evening hours, they are more likely to be out and about, looking for food items (rodents especially). Rattlesnakes tend to live where their food lives, so they can be quite common in our foothills, near prairie dog towns, or anywhere that rodents may live.

They are less common at higher altitudes, but we have seen victims from the Estes Park and Red Feather Lakes regions.

NEW PETS: Five Tips for Creating a Safe and Happy Home

Rattlesnake bites are quite painful, and usually there is an immediate indication that a bite has occurred. Dogs and cats will jump back and often vocalize, and some of them will try to fight back, often sustaining multiple bites if their owner is not there to remove them from the area. The venom of the Prairie Rattlesnake contains many different proteins that lead to pain and swelling at the bite site (often very dramatic swelling), interference with the blood clotting system (leading to bleeding), changes in the blood platelet count (platelets are required to form a blood clot), and damage to local tissues (causing sloughing, or loss, of tissue in the bite region). The swelling can be dramatic enough to cause concern over a patient’s airway, or further compromise to blood supply if the bite is on a limb.

What to do if your pet is bitten: The most important thing you can do is not to panic, gather your pet and get them to a veterinary hospital as quickly as possible. There is no type of first aid you should attempt in the field, as it only delays getting to the hospital. Don’t attempt a tourniquet, or cutting the bite site to remove the poison. Try to minimize your pet’s activity and anxiety and transport them as soon as possible. Since these patients are usually quite painful, they will be quickly assessed at a hospital to determine their medical status, and administered some pain medication. Diagnostic tests are used to determine if envenomation has occurred (many bites are “dry bites” meaning no venom was injected), and whether abnormalities are already developing. IV fluid therapy to treat shock and dehydration (bites have often occurred on a warm day in a dog that has been exercising), continued pain medication (often using a “pain pump” for continuous delivery), and in some cases use of specific antivenin. Rattlesnake antivenin is very useful in moderate to severe envenomations to reduce the pain, swelling and effects of the venom on blood cells/platelets and blood clotting proteins. Not all patients require the antivenin, and your veterinarian will determine its necessity.

The major drawback is the cost, though in cases where it is used it often allows earlier release from the hospital. The cost has decreased in the past couple of years with newer products. Most patients will make a good recovery, though there have been some fatalities. Fatal bites in Colorado are less common than with rattlesnakes in other parts of the country. Cats are bitten less often than dogs (perhaps they know better.....), though their bites can be more severe simply due to their smaller size and the relatively larger dose of venom per pound.

The best treatment is avoidance, but that can certainly be difficult with our myriad of outdoor activities. While out hiking or walking with your pets it is best to keep them on leash to avoid contact with a rattlesnake hiding beneath a bush or rock formation. Most dogs we have seen were bitten when off leash and roaming a short distance from their human companions. There are training programs designed to teach your dog to avoid rattlesnakes. If you live in a foothills area or known snake habitat, there are methods to “snake proof” your fenced yard or enclosure using special fencing, though this can be labor-intensive (and requires making sure you are not fencing any snakes IN the yard or enclosure). Using any internet search engine and “snake proof fencing” will retrieve information and ideas on how to accomplish this feat, as will a similar search for rattlesnake avoidance training.

While there is a vaccine that has been developed to try and prevent the problems caused by envenomation, its effectiveness has not yet been proven. Dogs which are vaccinated and get bitten STILL require immediate assessment by a veterinarian. Treatment is the same, regardless of a dog’s vaccination status….and there have been fatalities among vaccinated dogs. You should discuss whether or not to vaccinate your dog with your veterinarian. Know where the nearest veterinary emergency hospital is located, just in case, be safe with your activities this spring and summer, and keep your 4-legged friends safe!

VCA Veterinary Specialists of Northern Colorado 201 W. 67th Ct., Loveland, CO 80538

(970) 278-0668 Vcavsnc.com

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ALL ABOUT PETS

Laura Hobbs, for All About Pets It’s tough being the new kid, right? Experiencing new people in an unfamiliar environment, with no knowledge of the rules or where you fit in. It takes a while to acclimate, get acquainted with your surroundings and find your tribe. The same goes for the new pet you’re preparing to bring home. But with just a few helpful hints, you can make your home a safe and welcoming place for your newest family member.

Ease Into Introductions Entering an established household can be overwhelming for a new pet; everyone already knows everyone else, and your new pet doesn’t know anyone yet. When making introductions, the slower, the better—and keep in mind, scents are key to establishing who’s who.

For human smells, think dirty laundry—literally. Wherever

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your pet spends time, place a piece of dirty laundry there, like a pillow case or a t-shirt.

By mingling with these new smells, your new pet will begin to get used to your scent. If your new pet’s adopted, “it’s ideal to have the smells associated with the old home around them,” says Dr. Rebecca Ruch-Gallie, Assistant Professor of Clinical Sciences at CSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, “either from a bed, blanket or scratching post.”

Accessorize Smartly When shopping at a pet store for your new pet, it’s easy go to overboard; all the novel items, adorable toys and gimmicky accessories are incredibly tempting. But stay focused—pick up only the basic items your new family member will need, and save your splurging for later.

So what are the must-haves?

Simple: they’ll need their own food and water bowls, toys, and May 29, 2016

a place to rest.

For dogs, non-slip food and water bowls are essential for comfortable eating and drinking. Be sure your new bowls are designated only for your new pooch to lessen any tendencies toward food aggression. Nonslip bowls are also essential for cats. In addition to non-slip, make sure the bowls are wide enough to fit their whiskers comfortably. No cat wants to eat with squished whiskers—so uncomfortable!

When picking out toys for your new dog, think in threes: one that rolls, one to chase, and one to chew. For the chew toy, find one that’s made of hard rubber or thick rope. These materials are harder to tear apart (and subsequently swallow—gulp).

For cats, they’re especially interested in interactive toys, like wands or balls that make noise. Not only do the toys encourage mental stimulation, but they also provide your new kitty with exercise. And speaking of exercise, don’t forget a scratching post. Look for one that’s tall enough to stretch on, and won’t wobble when leaned against.

Your new pet will want plenty of (comfortable!) rest. By setting up their bed or crate in a spot that’s out of the main foottraffic areas, you’ll help them feel safe while still remaining a part of the pack. “Creating a small, safe space for the new pet to hang in while they’re adjusting is important—this is often a single room,” adds Dr. RuchGallie.

Cats like to survey the area while resting, so think sturdy and up high when considering their perch. This way, they’ll be able to keep watch or take a nice—ahem—cat nap.

Structure is Essential Let’s go back to the new kid analogy. In a new group, a May 29, 2016

pet looks for their place in the hierarchy and for which rules to follow. Dogs are especially privy to this behavior—they thrive on routine and rules. When they feel unsure, they may hide out behind a chair or under a piece of furniture until they feel more at ease. (Helpful hint: wait them out, don’t drag them out.)

In training your new pet, consistency is key. Through clear, sensible rules, you’re providing them with a sense of security, understanding and ease. Solid routines build confidence in new pets, so they better understand their roles and how you expect them to behave.

“Many animals like a routine, so starting one and sticking to it can ease transition,” says Dr. Ruch-Gallie. That sense of familiarity extends to food, too.

“Continuing the food from the old home can decrease the likelihood on an upset gut. For cats, it can be helpful to also use the same litter,” she adds.

Give them some (literal) space Even the happiest new pet will need a break from all the excitement and overstimulation, whether they know it or not. “Be sure to carve out some down time—while it’s exciting to have a new pet in the house, make sure you allow some time for adequate sleep and rest,” suggests Dr. Ruch-Gallie.

Find a safe and quiet place where your new pet can go to rest, and make sure it’s a place that they can access as easily as you can. By setting aside a place for them to take five, you’re helping to establish boundaries and communicating which areas are safe and which areas are off limits.

everyone to get along smoothly and immediately. To ease everyone into this transition phase, it’s important to reel in your expectations and find patience during the more difficult moments.

You and your new pet are getting to know each other, and neither you nor your new pet will understand everything right away. Don’t stress over the lack of immediacy—remember you’re both still learning. It may take a few weeks, if not longer, to establish your routines, boundaries and expectations.

member wants nothing more than to fit in and provide you with unconditional love. With a little understanding from both parties, you’ll be best buds before you know it.

Above all, remember that patience and kindness go a long way. Your new family

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ALL ABOUT PETS 3

Dog Parks 101: What you should know before you go park, especially if they aren’t under voice control.

2. Pick up.

Yes, there are dozens of dogs running around, but if yours is the one that leaves his calling card, you’re the one that should pick it up.

The park you’re in may or may not have bag stations, so its always wise to bring some with you just in case.

No matter where you are, there are some common, and often unspoken, rules regarding manners and behavior in and around dog parks. According to the Association of professional Dog Trainers (apdt.com) here are a few of the most common

points of etiquette that dog owners should know.

1. Leash up.

Whether the park is fully offleash or not, it’s courteous to leash your dog when in parking and other unfenced areas of the

3. Put away the food.

Your furry BFF might not be a beggar with a sensitive tummy, but other dogs forget their manners, have food aggression issues or dietary restrictions, so always put away the people food and avoid giving treats in the presence of other dogs.

4. Supervise.

Watch your dog as she interacts with the other dogs in the park. Is she a bully? Is she being bullied? It’s okay to have to leave the park. Every dog has its (bad) day.

5. Vaccinate.

Many dogs together is the perfect opportunity to pass or catch diseases. Keep your dog healthy and prevent the spread of illness by keeping their vaccinations up to date.

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ALL ABOUT PETS

6. No babies.

As a general rule, puppies under 4 months old are too young, fragile and susceptible to be at the dog park, period. Age limits can differ from park to park though. For example, the Windsor Lake Dog Park draws the line at 6 months, so check the rules before you go.

7. Know your dog.

If your dog is shy, or fearful, the dog park may not be for them. Know your pooch well enough to gauge the situation.

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Most parks don’t allow aggressive dogs at all, so be prepared to remove your animal if they behave aggressively.

8. Follow the posted rules.

This is the most important point of etiquette, but the rules are there for you and your dog’s safety and comfort as well as that of those around you.

Loveland parks even posts theirs online (cityofloveland.org/index. aspx?page=1670) so that you know before you go.

Follow them and everyone and their dogs can have a good time.

AREA OFF-LEASH DOG PARKS Dog Park at Fairgrounds Park 700 S. Railroad Ave., Loveland This park is fully fenced with a separate area for small or shy dogs. Water and waste bags are provided at the entrance to the park.

Poudre Pooch Park 7025 Eastman Park Dr. Windsor One-acre of fully fenced fun in Windsor. No water or waste bags are available.

Windsor Lake Dog Park 100 N. 5th St. at Boardwalk Park, Windsor Located on the north side of Windsor Lake, this dog park has a roped off area where dogs can swim (without their people).

Spring Canyon Dog Park 2626 W. Horsetooth Rd., Fort Collins Spring Canyon Dog Park includes play structures, a pond and a small dog area. Water and waste bags are available.

Fossil Creek Dog Park 5821 S. Lemay Ave., Fort Collins Fossil Creek is a smaller dog park with an area for shy or small dogs.

May 29, 2016

When our pets leave those little surprises, rain washes all that pet waste and bacteria into our storm drains.

And then pollutes our waterways. So what to do? Simple. Dispose of it properly (preferably in the toilet).

Then that little surprise gets treated like it should.

Scoop the POOP

There is no poop fairy. Pet waste washes into our storm drains and pollutes our rivers. When it rains, the potential exists for abandoned pet waste to wash down storm drains and into our streams, rivers and lakes without being treated at our wastewater treatment facility. Pet waste can contain bacteria that threaten the health of animals and people, especially children. Pet waste contains nutrients that encourage excess algae growth making water cloudy and green and unattractive for swimming, fishing, and recreation. When pet waste is washed into lakes and streams, the waste decays, using up oxygen.

Low oxygen combined with warm temperatures can kill fish and other aquatic life.

Why do we need clean water?

Having clean water is of primary importance for our health and economy. Clean water provides

recreation, commercial opportunities, fish habitat, drinking water and adds beauty to our landscape.

All of us benefit from clean water—and all of us have a role in getting and keeping our lakes, rivers and ground waters clean.

What’s the problem with pet waste?

It’s a health risk to pets and people, especially children. It’s a nuisance in our neighborhoods. Pet waste is full of bacteria that can make people sick.

If it’s washed into the storm drain and ends up in a lake, stream, the bacteria ends up in fish. People who eat those fish can get very sick. The waste produced by Seattle’s dogs and cats is about what a city the size of Renton or Kennewick—about 50,000 people—would produce. Unless people take care of it, the waste enters our water with no treatment.

CLEAN WATER TIP: How can you get rid of pet waste and help keep our waters clean?

Here are some options.

Scoop it up and flush it down the toilet. That’s best because then your community sewage treatment plant or your septic system treats the pet waste.

Seal the waste in a plastic bag and throw it in the garbage.

Bury small quantities in your yard where it can decompose slowly. Dig a hole one foot deep.

Put three to four inches of waste at the bottom of the hole. Cover the waste with at least eight inches of soil. Bury the waste in several different locations in your yard and keep it away from vegetable gardens.

Public Works Administration Building (PWA) 2525 West 1st Street (970) 962-2772 http://www.cityofloveland.org/stormwater May 29, 2016

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ALL ABOUT PETS 5

Unique Pet Products – with a Colorado connection

By Andy Stonehouse for All About Pets

W

hile Coloradoans certainly live up to a lot of other stereotypes, our love for our pets and the ways we include them in our active lives also rings true. That close connection to our equally outgoing dogs – and cats who venture into the outdoors, occasionally putting themselves at risk – has also prompted the creation of a range of safety and convenience products offered by local pet-care experts.

With wilderness just on the edge of the Front Range, many pet owners have dealt with the unpleasant reality that their cat or small dog may elicit the wrong kind of interest from natural predators.

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ALL ABOUT PETS

In or Out? Adam Volz, owner of Fort Collins’ All Pro Dogs, is a second-generation animal care specialist who’s found an adaptable and inventive solution to outdoor animal safety. The Canadian-made Habitat Ha-

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ven system allows owners to create customized, comfortable outdoor enclosures for their dogs and cats, allowing them to be out on a deck or patio but reducing the associated dangers from a simple leash or an old-fashioned cat door.

“We’re able to offer 100 percent safety, which is certainly the main concern for folks with small animals,” Volz says. “People have felt the need with predators out here – coyotes, hawks, owls – and they want to make sure their hairy kids are safe.”

Habitat Haven solutions for dogs tend to be attractive but somewhat traditional fenced-in enclosures, adaptable to even the largest of breeds, but the cat variations are much more unique. An entire see-through but safely enclosed system of tubes and tunnels can be securely attached to the side of your home, as high as upper floors, allowing your cat some safe and sunny outdoor access.

“People say they look a little like a hamster cage for cats, but we prefer

May 29, 2016

5Ks for people and pets Habitat Haven system keeps smaller pets safe outdoors. /allprodogs.com to call them ‘cat habitats’ or ‘catios,’” Volz says. “Alternately, we can create cat or dog doors safely installed in your existing glass. Whatever solution, a cat’s life expectancy goes way up with regular outside exposure.”

Eye Safety And while owners of larger dogs know that their canine companions can mostly look out for themselves, the natural elements – especially if you’re an outdoor adventure family who takes your dog on every journey – can also pose a threat to your speedy and outgoing dog’s eyes.

Dr. Steven Roberts and Dr. Trevor Arnold of Loveland’s Animal Eye Center are the leading veterinarian experts in surgery and treatment for pet eye issues on the entire Northern Plains, and know too well of the frequency of eye problems and disease in dogs. They’ve also found a useful (and stylish) preventative product to help your dog avoid sunburn and physical eye injuries, as they crash through the bush.

Rex Spex, a goggle system created by a couple of outdoor-oriented dog owners in Jackson, Wyoming, provides your dog the same sort of wind and UV protection skiers and snowboarders get from their own mirrored wintertime goggles.

The company’s product has attracted a lot of attention from police and military K-9 units, who’ve adopted the Rex Spex goggles for their hard-working dogs.

With an under-the-chin strap to keep them firmly mounted but still allow full jaw motion, Rex Spex can be ordered in sizes perfectly suited to your dog’s size. The goggles’ creators admit that it will probably take your dog a bit of time to adjust to the new sensation of wearing the goggles – lots of positive reinforcement is suggested up front – but in time, they’ll adapt to the safe and stylish eyewear and be fully-equipped for year-round adventures.

Animal Eye Center can offer a demonstration of the system and also help find the right Rex Spex for your action-oriented dog.

When you gotta go, you gotta go Finally, for those pet owners who wish they could provide one of the most important benefits of the great outdoors to their animals but can’t do so at all times, animal care retailers are now able to help out. We also wonder why someone didn’t think of it sooner.

The Potty Patch system, an indoor dog restroom intended for dogs 15 pounds or smaller, offers a soft and realistic-looking patch of antimicrobial and entirely washable turf to help your pet deal with those occasional emergencies. A three-layer system empties into a secure tray that’s easily removed for cleaning.

The setup is also ideal for puppy training, and can provide a little extra peace of mind for dog owners who’ve experienced the occasional accident from their four-legged friend.

May 29, 2016

By Misty Kaiser for All-About Pets Coloradoans love their dogs almost as much as they love being outdoors. What could be better than pairing the two and raising a little money besides?

Grab your favorite furry friend and run (or walk) for a cause with two 5Ks; the Animal House Rescue & Grooming Run Fur Fun and the Fire Hydrant Five 5K Walk Run and Pet Expo.

Peak physical condition isn’t necessary for either of these events, you can run, walk or any combination of the two. The point is to have fun with your family, friends and Fido and raise some funds for some really worthwhile nonprofits while you’re at it.

RUN FUR FUN First up — on Saturday, June 12 at City Park in Fort Collins, bring out the entire family for some fundraising fun — all proceeds go toward funding efforts at Animal House Rescue and Grooming.

The 5K begins at 8 a.m., with check in from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. and a special, and free, kids’ race begins at 9 a.m.

During and after the race, until 11 a.m. vendors and vets will be answering questions and providing a variety of health checks and other resources for the pups.

The fair is open to everyone and admission is free for race participant, and $10 for everyone else.

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FIRE HYDRANT 5 Expect some changes with the 26th Annual Fire Hydrant 5. First, a new location; The Promenade Shops at Centerra in Loveland. Held on Saturday, June 4 in conjunction with Paws on the Promenade, the course will run through Chapungu Sculpture Park and wind up at the Expo. Runners begin at 8:30 a.m., walkers at 8:35 and the kids have their chance at 9:30.

The 1-mile Healthy Kids’ Fun Run, and the adults run/walk 5K are only part of the day’s events.

From 8 a.m to 1 p.m., wander through vendors, demonstrations and contests at the Pet Expo, get your picture taken with your pet and maybe even go home with prizes.

So venture out for some fitness and fun and show your support for some fur friendly folks.

IF YOU GO...

What: Run Fur Fun

When: Sat., June 12, 8 a.m.

Where: City Park, Fort Collins Info: animalhousehelp.org/ runfurfun5k.php What: Fire Hydrant 5

When: Sat., June 4, 8 a.m.

Where: The Promenade Shops at Centerra, Loveland Info: larimerhumane.org/ events/fh5 ALL ABOUT PETS 7

One Florida veterinary advises residents who have pools to “drown-proof” their pooches by wading into the water with them and training them to seek out the steps. /Fotolia

Pet danger zones to avoid this summer

By Diane C. Lade, Sun Sentinel, (TNS)

Summer in the city can be dangerous for pets.

Hot cars, swimming pools with steep sides or waterfront docks, and picnics where dogs can sneak a helping of raisins or grapes — tasty to you but potentially poisonous to your animal friend — all pose a problem, say veterinarians who work in critical care.

Popular summertime activities like watersports, plus increased temperatures and humidity, also up the potential for cats or dogs to be injured or even killed, said Dr. Lynel Tocci, an animal critical care vet at Lauderdale Veterinary Specialists in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. A few months ago, a Boca Raton, Fla., woman rushed to the clinic with her cockapoo that had tumbled into the house pool, Tocci said.

The puppy had inhaled water while struggling to get out and

required 36 hours of oxygen treatments and intravenous fluids, but it recovered.

While many hazards to animals lurk year-round, there are potential pet danger zones you should be aware of as summer moves in.

Swimming pools, docks and canals

People assume dogs can swim so they’re safe around water, Tocci said. While most pooches can paddle a bit, they can injure themselves or drown while frantically trying to climb out of a steep-sided pool or up a barnacle-covered sea wall.

Tocci advises residents who have pools to “drown-proof” their pooches by wading into the water with them and training them to seek out the steps.

Pool fences also are a good idea, she said.

If you’re a watersports fan, make sure to outfit your pets with life jackets if they are going to be spending time on boat or docks, she said.

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May 29, 2016

Hot cars

“Heat stroke from leaving animals in the car is a big deal,” Tocci said. “Cracking the window isn’t going to work.”

The problem is compounded by people traveling more with their pets, she said.

When it’s 85 degrees outside, temperatures inside a car can soar to 102 degrees in 10 minutes, according to the Humane Society of the United States. Your pet can suffer irreversible organ damage or die.

But here’s the good news: Prevention is simple, Tocci said. Just don’t leave your dog or cat in a car this summer.

High-rise balconies

Be careful about leaving your condo balcony door open to catch a summer breeze.

Tocci said she recently treated a cat that jumped off a ninthfloor patio after being accidentally left outside.

While this kitty amazingly survived with little more than a broken leg, another pet wasn’t so fortunate. A blind dog brought to Lauderdale Veterinary Specialists died from a balcony fall, Tocci said.

High-rise dwellers must make sure their railings are high enough, and bars or screening secure enough, before letting their pets onto the balcony, she said.

Your home

Food, plants and medications are among the common household items that can injure or poison pets, said Dr. Stacey West, a vet at Boca Veterinary Clinic in Boca Raton who has worked in animal emergency care. Raisins, grapes, onions, chocolate and garlic are toxic to dogs.

Lilies are poisonous to cats, and the objects they play with, like yarn, can cause potentially fatal intestinal blockages if swallowed.

“I always tell people that they need to treat their pets like they are toddlers. They will go after anything,” West said.

is vomiting, has diarrhea, is not eating or in pain, call your veterinary immediately, West said.

For a list of items that are toxic to pets, call 800-2136680, or go to petpoisonhelpline.com. Online information is free, but there is a one-time $49 fee for a phone consultation.

Places that are fun for humans but not necessarily for pets

Chances are good your pooch would rather stay home than get overheated or stepped on at a loud, hot, crowded art festival or outdoor concert, Tocci said.

She said she regularly treats injuries incurred at dog parks.

So if you go, make sure your dog is well socialized and

Your yard and neighborhood

When outdoors, be on the lookout for poisonous Bufo toads, snakes and rat bait or garbage like chicken bones that someone may have thrown in the grass. If your pet

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leashed and watch out for canine bullies, Tocci said.

Oh, and if you are one of those pet parents who has a full wardrobe for your furkid?

Don’t leave your sharp-dressed dog unattended. West treated one that managed to get tangled in its outfit, rolled off a bed and broke its leg.

During one of West’s more interesting emergency room shifts, she said she treated four dogs in one night for marijuana toxicity.

“I guess they like to eat it,” she said.

Another time, she tended to a puppy sickened by inhaling pot smoke.

So remember, your idea of a good time may not be so great for your pet.

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ALL ABOUT PETS 9

Long-jumping dogs to make splash at Larimer Fair

By Sarah Huber for All About Pets The runner stretches his legs, paws the dust, and leans. Then he rumbles forth, catapulting into a pool and, with flourish and speed, snaps up his dog toy.

Several dozen canine onlookers howl and bark in approval.

Dock jumping, an aquatic long jump for dogs, is a growing sport nationwide and is returning to the Larimer County Fair and Rodeo August 5 to 9.

Kirsten Baynes of Wind-

sor and her golden retriever, Indiana, tried dock jumping at the Larimer Fair Splash Dogs event in 2009. “Indiana took to it instantly,” she said. “I had seen competitive jumping on TV and thought it looked like fun, but it’s a lot, lot more fun than it looks.”

Splash Dogs competitors dash down a 40-foot dock before leaping into a four-foot-deep pool. Between rounds, dogs and their handlers practice: The trainer tosses a familiar toy into

the water, and the dog runs and dives. “The way you throw the toy can extend the jump, so it takes skill for the trainer as well,” Baynes said. Some dogs catch their toy mid-air, but only the length of the jump is judged.

Top dogs of each qualifier proceed to the final show.

Nikki Wegner of Loveland said it’s hard to get her black Labrador, Queenie, out of the water. “She thinks she rules the pool,” Wegner joked. Like Baynes, Wegner and her dog

compete in multiple dock jumping events each summer.

Tony Reed, owner of the traveling competition Splash Dogs, will bring dock jumping to the Larimer Fair for the seventh year in a row this August. He said the dog jumping record is about 30 feet. While most competitors are Labrador retrievers, all breeds are welcome. “The dog only has to run fast and love the water,” Reed said. “My dog is never as happy as when he’s jumping.”

Alissa Cunningham, marketing director for the Larimer Fair, said Splash Dogs is one of the fair’s most popular attractions.

Shows run all five days of the fair.

Dog jumping started in the 1980s at a handful of festivals, and soon Purina and ESPN advanced the sport via sponsored competitions. In 2003, after Reed’s dog Sierra won fame as a dock jumper, Reed quit his job with a telephone company and founded Splash Dogs. Reed transports the Splash Dogs pool in a trailer that doubles as a dock for jumping.

Reed jumps his dog Lil Buddy too. “Each time we pull into a fair, Lil Buddy can’t wait until the dock gets built,” he said.

“Then he’s all over it, wild, running and barking.”

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May 29, 2016

Splash jumping not only is fun for dogs, but it also provides mental, physical and emotional stimulation, said Becca LaPole, splash coach at the Advanced Animal Care of Colorado veterinary hospital in Fort Collins. She explained, “The indoor dog pool here at AACC allows my dogs, Kenzii and Azula, to bond with me

and for them to get plenty of exercise even when the weather is bad.”

Most Splash Dogs handlers register online, but anyone can stop by with their dog and jump. Baynes and Wegner, who both first competitively jumped their dogs at the Larimer Fair, now help train dogs on show days.

Training on-site is important since dogs that usually jump in lakes or ponds may be spooked by the clear Splash Dogs water.

Reed gives dogs plenty of time to explore the dock and pool before each event. “Then once the dogs know it’s water, most zoom in and just love it,” said Baynes. “It’s pure fun for the dog and the trainer.”

Visit larimercountyfair.org or splashdogs.com for event times or to register.

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