Texas Dog Magazine | Summer 2021

dogs have their day

Bipartisan love for pups

4 paws up

for cruella

summer style game

the pet gal

hitched with hounds

THE STARS AT NIGHT ARE BIG AND BRIGHT

ADVERTISE, DEEP IN THE HEART OF TEXAS

TEXT OR EMAIL FOR RATES (817) 719-TXDM | TXDMADVERTISING@GMAIL.COM

TXDM Advocates TXDM Staff

This summer Texas Dog Magazine has chosen to support the AniMeals program by Meals on Wheels North Central Texas.

Through this program, once a month volunteers are able to deliver donated dog and cat food to Meals on Wheels recipients in their community.

This program prevents clients with limited resources from sharing their home-delivered meals with their pets, provides basic preventative vet care including vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and flea treatment and

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enables individuals to keep their companion animals.

Texas Dog Magazine believes this program is truly bettering the lives of Texans and their pets.

For these reasons, the TXDM Staff encourages you to support this program in any way you are able.

During these times, even sharing information about the program can be beneficial to the cause.

Learn more here bit.ly/txdmanimeals Donate here bit.ly/txdmadvocatessummer21

The Texas Dog Magazine Summer 2021 edition cover photo was provided by Jill Garrett Photography.

“To rescue one animal will not change the world.

It will change the world for that one animal.” That quote exemplifies everything that I stand for. I give a voice to the voiceless. One single image can change everything for that animal. Capturing the animal in an image allows that animal to live forever. It’s not only an image to me, it is that feeling of complete freedom and happiness.

Remember, image is everything. Let them live forever in our hearts and memories.

Learn more at JillGarrettPhotography.com

table of contents The Pet Gal

Safe Outdoor Dog Act

PetCo Love

Pg. 8

Pg. 12

Pg. 15

The Pet Gal helps couples say "I Do" with their pups.

Dogs have their day.

Bipartisan legislation passed.

The $300K grant for the Killeen Animal Shelter.

continued Cruella

TCAP

Game

Pg. 18

Pg. 22

Pg. 25

New movie sees mixed reviews, but lands 4 paws up.

TCAP makes moves helping pet owners with affordable care.

Take our quiz to decide what kind of dog you are!

Editor's Note

by Nealie Sanchez Welcome back y'all!

Truly after the craziness of 2020, Texas Dog Magazine was very blessed to continue cranking out our virtual editions. We had to have some pretty tough conversations, but ultimately we decided the show must go on in full force because truly we believe we have to do our part in supporting and bringing together this community of dog lovers.

If there's one thing we have all learned from this trying time, it's that Texas dog owners are not only strong, they're also supportive and resilient.

We truly couldn't be more excited to be all the way back into the dog scene. We also can't wait to continue to gather together more and more as we move forward out of this pandemic.

All the best to you and yours. As always thank you endlessly on behalf of myself and the team for reading.

Barks, Nealie E. Sanchez Founder & Editor

4 | Texas Dog Magazine

TexasDogMagazine.com PUBLISHER Nealie Sanchez Extra! Marketing TX nealie@extramarketingtx.com EDITOR Nealie Sanchez editor@texasdogmagazine.com ADVERTISING TXDMadvertising@gmail.com STAFF Alana Holt alanaTXDM@gmail.com Tiffany Ditto tiffanyTXDM@gmail.com Joy Waits joy@joysanchezphotography.com 222 E. Renfro St., Ste. 108 Burleson, TX 76028 ©2021 All rights reserved.

Volume 4, Issue 3 No Part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written consent of the publisher

TNOM EHT FO GOD SAXET

TAKE A PHOTO OF YOUR DOG Step 1

No humans allowed, sorry! Oh, and make sure your pic is high-resolution.

ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS

Step 2 Name:

Breed: Age: Favorite Treat: Favorite Toy: Bio: (Include your pup's town.)

EMAIL US

Step 3 Send this info to editor@TexasDogMagazine.com

for our team's consideration.

WHAT IS TEXAS DOG OF THE MONTH? One of the cool pups on the block.

Our team selects one Texas Dog of the Month each month. Out of these dogs one is selected to be the Texas Top Dog in one of our quarterly magazines, just like the one you're reading now. At the end of the year our four Top Dogs compete to be Texas Dog of the Year in a social media showdown! This lucky pup receives prizes, social media slots and the first cover photo of the year!

2019 Texas Dog of the Year is Jackson the Dalmation

Texas Top Dog:

Xena Breed: Great Pyrenees Golden Retriever Age: 1 Favorite Treat(s): and watermelon!

Fromm Crunchy O's

Favorite Toy: My volcano dinosaur burrow toy! I love saving my babies from the volcano!

Bio: Hi furiends! My name is Xena, and I am a Great Pyrenees Golden Retriever mix from Richardson, Texas! My mom adopted me in September of 2020 from Take Me Home Pet Rescue in Richardson, TX. I was found wandering the roads of West Texas when rescuers found me, and I am glad to spend my days doing zoomies in the backyard and then taking long naps! I am a big foodie and I go crazy for all kinds of toys! I love all kinds of animals, big or small, and I love meeting all humans too! I am a regal, lovable, and southern gal with a big heart, and I love you all too!

Texas Dog Magazine | 7

Say “I D ” with Your Pet There Too

The Pet Gal’s Wedding Pet Attendant Services Take the Stress Out of Bringing Your Pet Along on Your Wedding Day Photo Courtesy of The Pet Gal

by Tiffany Ditto When dreaming of the perfect wedding day, there’s one family member every girl feels devastated to leave out, her fur child. But with everything a bride must be part of on her wedding day keeping track of and tending her pup can seem like an impossible feat, and let's be honest, do you really want to trust a drunk groomsman with your most precious?

Enter The Pet Gal’s wedding attendant services.

The Austin-based pet care service provider will not only chauffer your pup at your ceremony but will ensure they are right on schedule to walk down the aisle or pose for family photos.

“The bride and groom’s reaction when they see their pet is amazing,” says Joy Viscomi, Pet Gal Wedding Pet Coordinator. “I also love seeing the guests' reactions when the dog walks down the aisle. Sometimes it's a surprise for the guests because they don't know the dog will be there.”

Pet Gal wedding attendants work with you to customize your day and include your pet in any way you feel you want to. Viscomi says she’s even assisted a bride in having a mother-son dance with her fur son, Roman.

“The first wedding I did in 2017, the couple had booked us for four hours, and then the couple came up and asked me how much for the rest of the night?” Viscomi recalls. “So, I was there when Roman, the Great Dane, had his first dance with mom and spent time in the cigar lounge with dad.

He was also part of the send-off.”

Viscomi says the most popular things for pets to do during weddings is to walk down the aisle with members of the wedding party, pose for photos, or be part of the ceremony as a flower girl or ring bearer.

8 | Texas Dog Magazine

She said that typically, pups don’t stand at the front of the alter next to mom and dad for the nuptials though because they can be quite unpredictable.

Visomi recalled a time where the bride and groom did want the furbaby to stand at the altar for their outdoor ceremony. Viscomi was nervous about this, and for good reason, because sure enough, the pup started “boot scooting during the ceremony” causing quite the reason for the crowd to laugh. However, the bride and groom laughed too, she says.

Typically, during the vows, The Pet Gal attendants will walk pets around the venue grounds away from the ceremony where they can burn off energy, use the restroom, or bark freely.

Another, cuter challenge with wedding ceremonies, Viscomi says is getting pups to focus on the task at hand during the ceremony.

“The most difficult aspect is getting the dog to walk down the aisle and not want to greet every guest down the aisle,” she says. “We usually recommend a short leash, that way they don’t stop at every person saying ‘but wait you can pet me, and you can pet me.’”

She added that treats also are a big help when encouraging pets to sit for photos or perform as the pet parents hoped.

“We bring treats and I check with the pet the day before to make sure the pet doesn’t have any allergies,” she says. “We bring a squeaky toy to get their attention during photos, and water. Lots and lots of water because it can get hot in the summertime.”

Photo Courtesy of The Pet Gal

Viscomi says that typically couples will have their pet stay for the ceremony, and greet guests during cocktail hour while the bride and groom take photos -- once the pet has completed their portion of the photo-taking of course. Then, once dinner is served, typically couples will have the furbaby head home for the rest of the night.

The Pet Gal was founded by Susan Anderson in 2009 and began offering wedding attending services in 2017 after a client asked Anderson if she could help her pup be part of her wedding day. Anderson did and realized she could add this as a service to her business.

In addition to wedding attending, The Pet Gal offers dog walking, pet sitting, and pet taxiing services in the Austin area. Currently, The Pet Gal does 25-30 weddings annually and has 3-4 wedding attendants, but Viscomi says she thinks that number will increase as the demand for pet attending grows.

“We were on track to do more weddings last year, but then COVID hit,” she says.

Viscomi started working for The Pet Gal six years ago and took over the wedding attendant program a couple of years later. Since then, she's been the primary attendant on dozens of weddings around the Austin area and has traveled as far as San Antonio to help pets be part of the bride’s special day.

While most of The Pet Gal’s weddings are in the Austin and Dripping Springs area, they will travel anywhere to bring their services to brides in need. The cost of The Pet Gal’s wedding attendant services is $330 for (2 hours), $540 (4 hours), $780 (6 hours).

Each package includes services for one pet, ravel to a venue in a 60-mile radius of Round Rock, one attendant, and event insurance.

Texas Dog Magazine | 9

Photo Courtesy of The Pet Gal

The fee to add additional pets is $20 per pet and chauffeur services are around $2 per mile. There is also an option to add additional attendants, should you have an overly zealous pet.

“It depends on the breed of the dog and what the bride and groom request,” Viscomi says. “I have one coming up where the bride and groom have requested a second attendant for their Husky because he is very excited.”

Viscomi says that she’s got the best job in the world. She loves helping pets and their people be together on the best day of their lives, and if there’s one thing she wants everyone to know, it’s that The Pet Gal’s Wedding Attending Services aren’t just for dogs.

“We have a cat at a wedding too,” she says, “There were two dogs and one cat and it was amazing. I always said I wanted to help a cat be part of a wedding and I got to do that, he even wore a bow-tie. My next goal is to help a little potbellied pig be part of a ceremony.”

To learn more about The Pet Gal’s Wedding Attendant services visit www.thepetgal.com.

Photo Courtesy of The Pet Gal

10 | Texas Dog Magazine

LL UT Y'A O S G DO T THE E L E W

E N I L N O S U FIND @TEXASDOGMAGAZINE

@TEXASDOGMAGAZINE

@TEXASDOGMAG

Safe Outdoor Dog Act Passes Texas House & Senate

SB 474 to tighten restrictions on tethering of pets outdoors

by Tiffany Ditto The Texas Legislature passed SB 474 the “Safe Outdoor Dog Act”, during the 2021 legislative session, and if signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott, the bill would establish basic standards of shelter and care for dogs left outdoors.

SB 474 was authored by Senator Eddie Lucio Jr. (DBrownsville) and Chair Nicole Collier (D-Dallas) and advocated for by animal welfare groups across Texas, but perhaps none more vehemently than the Texas Humane Legislation Network. THLN Executive Director Shelby Bobosky said the 501(c)(4) nonprofit has been lobbying on behalf of this bill, which strengthens existing legislation, since 2015.

“We have worked on this legislation for six years and I think the storm in February really lit a fire and helped with the realization that this legislation is needed now more than ever,” says Bobosky. “Our 1-800 hotline was shut down because we received so many calls in February about dogs outside freezing to death. While we worked around the clock with local law enforcement agencies across the state to get those pets help, so many still perished.”

“We are elated that this bill passed the house and the senate and is on the governor's desk,” Bobosky adds.

"We hope that since more than 100 legislators signed onto this bill, and thousands of supporters, Governor Abbot will take this seriously and sign the Safe Outdoor Dog Act into law. With Texas being a leader on so many issues, why shouldn't this be one of them?”

The Safe Outdoor Dogs Act will reform the hard to enforce Unlawful Restraint of Dogs law that has been in place since 2007. Under the 2007 law, owners cannot keep their dog outside

12 | Texas Dog Magazine

unattended by use of a restraint (1) that reasonably limits the dog's movement between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., (2) that is within 500 feet of a school, or (3) when extreme weather conditions are present.

The law also outlines what type of collars can be used and the length tethers can be. However, it is almost impossible for local law enforcement agencies to cite anyone in violation of the 2007 law, unless the city has stricter local ordinances in place; because the law requires that law enforcement issue a warning and allow the pet owner 24 hours to remedy the violation before receiving a citation.

However, the Safe Outdoor Dogs Act strikes this 24hour mandatory waiting period before ticketing those in violation of the law -- making it possible to ensure that pets are properly cared for at all times. The law also requires pet workers to supply outdoor dogs with adequate shelter, water, a collar, prohibits the use of heavy chains as a tethering device, and ensures that pets can move around and are not tethered in an unsafe place such as standing water or mud.

SB 474 also includes key exemptions for dogs restrained in public places like parks and campgrounds, those used for farming, field trials, and hunting tasks, dogs restrained on a trolley system, and those temporarily unattended in an open-air truck bed.

“As we know, poor living conditions of animals outside are a safety risk not only for the animals but for the communities in which they live," says bill author Senator Lucio Jr. Gov. Abbot will have until June 20th to veto the bill, sign it into law, or allow it to become law regardless of his signature.

Helping Dogs Across the Globe

India’s street dog population is estimated to be between 35–40 million and accounts for the highest number of rabies cases in the world with approximately 20,000 people dying from it every year. Dharamsala Animal Rescue’s mission is to help resolve the human/street dog conflict in Dharamsala by providing several key programs: spay/neuter, rabies vaccination, street animal rescue, street animal feeding, local adoption, and community education.

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Now more than ever, people are conscious of their power as consumers. Shopping is about more than just meeting a need, it’s also an opportunity to support a cause. That’s why Dharamsala Animal Rescue (DAR) decided to launch the DHARMA DOG online shop where all profits go to help thousands of dogs living on the streets in Dharamsala, India.

Featuring six original designs, the Dharma Dog Shop was created to delight dog lovers and animal rescue advocates. The online store offers a clothing line with a variety of t-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, and tank tops, along with a home accessories collection: mousepads, mugs, water bottles, phone cases, blankets, and more. Not to mention a pet collection with dog beds, bowls, bandanas, and the “good dog stuff” products that promote positive reinforcement for dogs.

Founded in 2008, DAR received the World Rabies Day 2019 Asia Award and has been a recipient of the SPCA International's Shelter Support Fund since 2015. By wearing or using Dharma Dog products, supporters are not only funding the mission but also promoting DAR’s crucial work in India.

TXDM readers get 10% off with code DARJ2021

- TXDM Staff Reports

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“When I went to India for the first time, I was shocked by the amount and the condition of dogs living on the streets, and no one seemed to care.

Upon returning home to the USA, I knew I needed to do everything in my power to improve the lives of these helpless creatures.” Deb Jarrett, DAR Founder

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Texas Dog Magazine | 13

5K

Feeding Texans

Virtual 5K Benefitting Meals On Wheels North Central Texas

APRIL 9, 2022 6:30 A.M. CST

Sign Up! Sponsor!

Sign Up Fee Includes Virtual Race access Exclusive t-shirt Finisher medal 1 weeks worth of meals to someone in need!

Texas Honey Run

Petco Love Commits $300,000 Grant to Killeen Animal Shelter

3-year funding will help Killeen AS provide preventative and emergency care for shelter animals

by Tiffany Ditto Petco Love awarded Killeen Animal Services a $300,000 grant to be paid out over three years for use in preventative and emergency care for animals at Killeen Animal Shelter.

“We see all types of emergencies from parvovirus, animals hit by cars, animal cruelty investigations, and so much more,” says Dunagan. “We would like all animals adopted from the shelter to be at their healthiest when they go to their new homes.” “[Providing heartworm treatment] has not been an option in the past for the Killeen Animal Shelter and will definitely be something that we look more into and provide the best care that we can in order to make their lives the best that they can be,” Dunagan adds.

Courtesy City of Killeen Facebook Page.

“The grant that we have received will help so many animals here in Killeen,” says Jessica Dunagan, Killeen Animal Services Manager. “We will be able to begin the process of cutting down on unwanted litters, vaccinate animals, and get the help and attention they need for what they may come in for. I don’t believe that there is a more rewarding feeling than knowing you made a difference in the life of an animal and a citizen who needed that companionship.”

Dunagan says that the money provided by Petco Love will go directly to veterinary care of the animals the shelter intakes, some of which arrive in need of emergency care or slower lifesaving treatments such as treatment for heartworm disease.

Petco Love is a nonprofit that invests in local shelters, rescues, and animal welfare organizations across the nation to improve the Texas Dog Magazine | 15

lives of pets across the U.S. Locally in Killeen, Petco Love, formerly Petco Foundation has been a longtime supporter of the shelter -- providing grants since 2014. With previous funding from the organization, Killeen Animal Services has been able to provide more than one thousand serialization and rabies vaccination vouchers and enhance the shelter’s sanitation. This new grant will further enhance these previous efforts by allowing more proactive efforts to increase animal health and ultimately adaptability.

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Since its founding in 1999 as the Petco Foundation,

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“Killeen Animal Services has come a long way to making a difference for the lost animals in our City and helping our citizens,” Dunagan says.

“Since Animal Services was put under the Recreation Services Department we have gone from an 82% live release rate to 94.2%, in just under two years. Our team has come a long way and we have built a better lifestyle for the animals that enter the shelter so that we can give them the best possible life while here at the shelter. We thank Petco Love for the opportunity they have bestowed upon us and we will do everything in our power to make the lives of these animals better each and every day.”

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The shelter intakes approximately 5,500 animals on average annually, says Dunagan. She says that it’s no secret around the shelter, that Petco’s contributions coupled with the city’s decision to move animal services under the umbrella of the Recreation Services Department have both been big contributors in helping improve animal welfare at the shelter -- allowing for the edition of improved sanitation by laying concrete in working areas, adding four new play yards, upgrading kennels for pet safety, acquiring larger cat rooms, and upgrading staff equipment to better serve citizens while in the field.

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“The relationship between Petco Love and Killeen Animal Services is strong,” says Joe Brown, executive director of Killeen Recreation Services.

“What’s really special about this grant investment is that it tangibly assists animals within our community in a very positive way. To be awarded this grant is an absolute win and a game-changer for animals in need in our community.”

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Petco Love has empowered organizations with nearly $300 million invested to date for adoption and other lifesaving efforts and helped find homes for more than 6.5 million pets in partnership with Petco stores nationwide.

“Today Petco Love announces an investment in Killeen Animal Services and hundreds of other organizations as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized,” says Susanne Kogut, president of Petco Love in a statement on April 21st. “Our local investments are only one component. This month, we will also launch the first of our national tools to empower all animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us.”

Killeen Animal Shelter is located at 3118 Commerce Drive and is open for adoptions Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. More information about Killeen Animal Services along with a link to view adoptable animals online is available at killeentexas.gov/animals.

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208 E. CHAMBERS ST. CLEBURNE, TX BUSY? WE DELIVER! 817.556.1040

Review: Photo Courtesy of Disney. ©2021 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

by Tiffany Ditto

Disney's Cruella shows Audiences a Villain in Metamorphosis at a Time When She Loves Dogs Estella even gets to feed her passions by creating elaborate disguises for them to wear when carrying out their heists, but she has always longed to design on for the runway, and elaborate heist costumes aren’t quite fulfilling her desires.

Disney’s Cruella made its debut May 28 in theaters and on Disney+ for those willing to pay for early access. After a long year of watching movies on our sofa, a change of scenery, and the familiarity of the movie theater seats were just what the vet ordered. However, this version of Cruella was anything but familiar, and for once these pet lovers were rooting for a villain once notorious for wearing a dalmatian fur coat.

Forget what you think you know about Cruella Devil. The 2021 Cruella origin story, starring Emma Stone, flips the script on the 101 Dalmations, traditional villain. Gone are the long cigarette holder and the signature chain smoker we remember, and in her place is a complex character who is no longer screaming about needing spots simply to have the most dazzling coat. Instead, the audience will find a tragic underdog and animal lover that they can root for.

The film opens on a young Cruella, whose birth name is Estella, as she recounts her days as a young child getting into trouble at school because of her “genius.” Her mischievous ways ultimately lead to her expulsion, and for her and her mother to pack up and head to Paris in search of a new school for Estella. On the way, Estella’s mother stops at the home of a former employer where a lavish party is taking place. It’s at this party where we see the tragic death of Estella’s mother -- a death she ultimately blames herself for much of her life.

Without a father, and her mother now dead, Estella is left with no one but her dog Buddy as a companion. She makes her way to Paris as she and her mother planned where she meets, who else but two orphan boys who make their way through life as pickpockets, Jasper and Horrace. The trio band together and become the best of friends. They start a business as thieves and supply themselves with everything they could need.

18 | Texas Dog Magazine

After, getting a job at a local department store, and catching the eye of world-renowned fashion designer, The Baroness, played by Emma Thompson, Estella begins to blossom as a fashion designer.

However, it’s not long before Estella learns that it was Baroness’ party her mother died at all those years ago, and learns the story of how Baroness herself had a direct hand in her mother’s death.

Eager for revenge, Estella taps into her alter ego, and Cruella is born.

Cruella begins her crusade to ruin Baroness’ career.

Audiences will be intrigued by the plot twists, couture fashion, and their ability to see a onceexclusively evil villain in a new light. Cruella will take audiences on a journey filled with excitement, adventure, love, and ultimately self-discovery as they watch Cruella become who she truly is. Like her hair, she is a perfect Yin and Yang of good and bad, both engaging in villainous acts, while also showing kindness and compassion.

Rating...

puptown dog events July

Aug.

Sept.

Moco's Law Furr Paws Fest

Free Rabies Vaccines

Wags n' Waves

Montgomery County | 7/25 Fundraiser to combat animal cruelty. Food, music, and more from 12 p.m. - 6 p.m. Learn more at lawfurrpaws.com

Denton | 8/21 Free Rabies vaccines provided

by TCAP from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Denton Animal Shelter Learn more at bit.ly/pdes21

Garland | 9/18 Dive in with your best canine friend and enjoy doggie swims, contests, games, and prizes.

Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Transport

Play Frisbee with Your Dog

Bow Wow Luau

Cleburne | 7/27 Cleburne Animal Shelter to nearby at the Burleson TCAP low-cost spay/neuter facility.

Call 940-566-5551 to book.

Dallas | 8/14 The DDDC's monthly playday at 9 a.m. Bring your dog and your disc to join.

The Colony | 9/12 Dive in with your best canine friend and enjoy doggie swims benefitting The Colony Animal Shelter Injured Animal Fund.

National Mutt Day

Pints & Pups

National Dogs in Politics Day

Statewide | 7/30 National Mutt Day is celebrated twice a year, on July 31 and December 2

Addison | 8/21 Beer samplings in Addison Circle Park at 7 p.m. Bring your pup or Rent-A-Pup

Statewide | 9/30 This day is a special celebration honoring the “first dogs” of the United States.

Texas Dog Magazine | 19

Sunset Commission Upholds Texas Licensed Breeders Program

by Tiffany Ditto

Two key pieces of animal rights regulations were upheld this legislative session as Texas Sunset Commission Members reviewed recommendations set forth to gut the regulations pertaining to cat and dog breeding in Texas and its oversight by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

Cat and dog breeders as well as responsible pet ownership courses must be licensed by TLDR, which oversees these licenses and has the power to revoke the license of pet breeders or declare that a responsible pet ownership class is inadequate. These programs came under fire during Summer 2020 after the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission, which conducts audits on government agencies to ensure their practices and policies are relevant in an ever-changing world, recommended doing away with the programs -- leaving their fate in the hands of five senate members and six house members.

and hope to be able to revisit it and strengthen it next legislative session,” says THLN Executive Director Shelby Bobosky. “We are thankful the Sunset Commission Members recognized the Licensed Breeders Program's importance.”

Texas began regulating cat and dog breeding in 2011, with the passage of House Bill 1451, commonly called "The Puppy Mill Bill." The bill states that persons required to be licensed as a dog or cat breeder are licensed and provide adequate and humane care for the animals they breed, keep them properly sheltered and provide adequate veterinary care. The bill also prevents those who have been convicted of animal cruelty from becoming a licensed breeders and requires TDLR inspectors who witness animal cruelty to report it to local law enforcement.

Texas Humane Legislation Network, a 501c4 nonprofit that lobbies on behalf of animal rights, spent much of last year convincing the legislature to vote against doing away with these programs, especially the dog and cat breeder licensing regulation — a bill they had a hand in passing in 2011 -- and the group’s hard work paid off.

During the 2021 legislative session, time ran ut for HB 1818 which would have added the further restrictions to this bill that Bobosky and other animal welfare groups have been looking for. HB 1818, made it through both chambers of Congress but was halted in the Conference Committee where it did not make it through to meet the final deadlines for passage this legislative session.

"We were able to save the license breeder program

The bill, filed by Rep. Jared Patterson, called for

20 | Texas Dog Magazine

“There is always more to do to improve the lives of animals,” Bobosky says. “Next session we’re really going to focus on puppy mills and big cat ownership.”

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dogs in pet stores to be sourced from rescues, shelters, and humane societies and required pet stores to keep a record of where the animals were obtained from for at least one year. Additionally, some leeway existed in the initial bill for the four percent of Texas licensed breeders who sell puppies at pet stores. Additionally, the law also did not affect counties with a population of less than 200,000 citing that communities may not have the number of animals needed to supply retail pet stores.

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“Texas ships out hundreds of dogs to states that don’t have the overpopulation crisis we have, but we ship in hundreds of bred dogs,” Bobosky says. “Out of the top 25 pet retailers only one still sells puppies and kittens and that’s Petland. All of the other big players have switched to the humane model.”

The upheld “Puppy Mill Bill” that was saved by Sunset Review Members, contrary to popular belief, does not make puppy mills illegal in the state of Texas but rather heightens the threshold of care required for these animals.

These regulations help ensure that breeders don't let pets live in filth and squalor or sell sick puppies to unsuspecting pet parents. HLN states that these regulations also help save taxpayer dollars by preventing cruelty before it begins by keeping breeders in check — lowering the number of large-scale animal seizures "Before issuing a license, TDLR inspects a breeding facility to make sure it meets standard of care requirements, TDLR Public Information Officer Tela Goodwin said previously in a statement to TXDM. "Agency inspectors then visit breeding facilities at least once every 18 months and other inspections may occur as needed." .

Goodwin adds that some of the most common code violations committed by licensed breeders include not allowing females adequate rest time between breeding cycles, not providing sufficient heating or cooling for animal enclosures, not exercising animals daily, and not providing veterinary exams for each pet at least once every 12 months.

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Bobosky contends that THLN plans to introduce similar legislation in the 2023 session in the hopes to crack down on puppy mills in Texas.

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According to TLDR, licensed breeders must adhere to standards of care in these areas: indoor or outdoor housing or enclosures transportation standards veterinary care compatible grouping of animals exercise for dogs sales and transfers feeding, watering, cleaning, & sanitation housekeeping & pest control training of onsite personnel grooming

Texas Dog Magazine | 21

Animal welfare groups team up, provide 385 free rabies vaccines to North Texas Pets The Texas Coalition for Animal Protection (TCAP) kicked off the summer by providing 385 free rabies vaccines to North Texas pets in May thanks to partnerships with Cleburne Animal Services and the Denton Animal Support Foundation (DASF).

TCAP staff vaccinated 163 cats and dogs at Carver Park from the Cleburne area against the deadly rabies virus on Saturday, May 15 and 212 cats and dogs at TCAP’s Denton location Saturday, May 22. Cleburne Animal Services sponsored the cost of rabies vaccines for residents of Cleburne, while DASF sponsored the cost of rabies vaccines for residents of Denton County. For those who lived in the area but not in the city or county, who were still in need, TCAP covered the cost of those pet’s rabies vaccines from the organization's general operating budget.

“We are so thankful for the grants these organizations provided to improve animal welfare in their communities,” says Stacey Schumacher, TCAP Executive Director. “Both Cleburne Animal Services and Denton Animal Support Foundation have been longtime partners of TCAP and have been invaluable in helping to bring low-cost pet wellness services to communities where these services are needed most.”

In addition to free rabies vaccines for North Texas pets, TCAP offered discounted microchips for $20.

According to chip manufacturer Home Again, 90 percent of pets without proper identification won’t return home. For lost pets, microchips provide a way for city shelter staff, or local veterinarians, to find pet owners and reunite them with their pet.

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The Cleburne event was held at the City’s Spring Community Picnic. This event was more than just a vaccine and wellness clinic, but it was also a chance for community members to come together with their pets and celebrate -- featuring face painting, hot dogs, ice cream, community leaders, and, of course, adoptable pets from Cleburne Animal Services.

"Cleburne Animal Services is truly grateful that we were able to partner with TCAP to provide free rabies vaccinations for over 160 cats and dogs this past weekend," said Mindy Henry, Cleburne Animal Services Director. "Our partnership with TCAP is invaluable and affords us the ability to spay and neuter hundreds of pets each year to make them ready for adoption.

Their quality, affordable services also allow us to help citizens of Cleburne who may need financial assistance in order to have their pets sterilized and rabies vaccinated. We truly appreciate TCAP and everything they do for our shelter and for the community."

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“Lack of access to veterinary care is a complex societal problem with many causes and barriers,” said Kiara Hunter, "[...] all pets deserve equal access to a basic level of veterinary care and is dedicated to addressing barriers through our Community Support Programs. Pets are considered important family members for the majority of the 68% of American pet-owning households. Many people will go without food and medicine for themselves to make sure their pet has what they need. DASF is proud to partner with TCAP to help break through these barriers many pet owners face when seeking care for their pets.”

Find out more information about what vaccinations your pets needs at https://texasforthem.org/services/vacci nations/dog-vaccinations/ A

Following the May event’s success, DASF has pledged to provide additional grant funding to TCAP for the next free rabies vaccine event to be held at the end of the summer on August 21 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Linda McNatt Animal Care and Adoption Center, 3717 N Elm Street.

- TXDM Staff Reports

Texas Coalition for Animal Protection is a 501c3 non-profit that works to end pet overpopulation and improve community animal welfare. TCAP accomplishes this goal by making affordable, high-quality preventative services available to Texas pet owners.

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Photo by Jess Wealleans, Getty Images

What's Your Summer Style?

Your friend invites you kayaking... a.) I'm bringing snacks! b.) Can I nap? c.) I'm already on the river! d.) I'll ride along.

At the beach you... a.) Pack the cooler! b.) Lounge in the tent. c.) Splash in the ocean. d.) Play the tunes!

It's fruit picking time so you... a.) Sneak a few berries along the way. b.) Stick to the same bush. c.) Look for the nearest pond. d.) Help your furiends fill their baskets.

On a day at home you... a.) Grill out. b.) Kick back. c.) Take a relaxing bath. d.) Invite your furiends over!

You're going to Austin for the weekend... a.) I can't wait to eat Kerbey Lane Cafe. b.) At an AirBNB with a king size bed! c.) To swim down at Barton Springs! d.) With all my furiends.

You're tubing the river and... a.) Eating popsicles. b.) Catching some Zs! c.) Swimming beside the others. d.) Cracking jokes!

Mostly...

As

You're a Cookin' Canine!

You know that summer fun means you get to have all the hot weather goodies like watermelon, shaved ice and grilled delights.

There's nothing you won't do for a treat!

Bs

You're a Dreamy Dog! You think the best part of summer is getting to take a little break. You're the best at relaxing, which is why you can nap anywhere. There's nothing better than being well rested!

Cs

You're a Water Woofer!

You aren't afraid to dive into summer and find adventure everywhere. Summer means you can cool off with a swim. There's nothing that can stand between you and a good doggy paddle!

Ds You're a Party Pooch!

You're having the best time when you're with all your furiends, even if it means you're kicking back at home. There's nothing good tunes and good times can't fix!

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SPCA of TexasAdoption Special

by Madeline Yeaman, SPCA of Texas

The SPCA of Texas is hoping to make this an unforgettable summer for the pets in their care, so they’re celebrating with a $25 adoption special! For #ShelterPetSummer, all dogs and cats 6 months and older at the SPCA of Texas’ Jan Rees-Jones Animal Care Center in Dallas, Ellis County Animal Care Center in Waxahachie shelters, and in SPCA of Texas foster homes, are $25 to adopt! Browse all of their adoptable pets online at spca.org/findapet, and search for the pet that you’d like to meet. Adoptions are by appointment only at this time. To make an appointment, please visit spca.org/dogadopt to make an appointment to meet a dog, or spca.org/catadopt to make an appointment to meet a cat.

All pets have been spayed/neutered, microchipped, and are current on all age-appropriate vaccinations.

Regualr adoption fees are $150 for puppies and kittens 0-6 months and $75 for dogs and cats 6 months and older. While the SPCA of Texas does not euthanize for time or space, they need your help making space at their shelters in order for them to help even more animals this summer. When you adopt a pet from the SPCA of Texas, you not only save the life of the pet you are adopting, but you also save the life of the pet that takes its place in the shelter. Learn more about the SPCA of Texas at www.spca.org.

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Name: Archie Age: 1½ years old Breed: Boxer mix

Meet Archie! He came to the SPCA of Texas when he was rescued as a pup from a cruelty case with the Dallas Police Department. He was skinny and sick, but with love and care, he’s ready for a home of his own! Archie is energetic and friendly. He loves to run in the yard, play with toys and snuggle! He spent time in a foster home and learned to use a crate and sit! He also cracks his foster parents up with his hops - he might be part rabbit! He loves other dogs, and enjoys playing rough and rowdy. Another pup who can keep up with him would be great. You can bring your other dog(s) to meet with Archie to make sure they get along. Archie would do best in a home with adults only and a fenced-in yard. He has been neutered, microchipped and has received all age-appropriate vaccinations. To request an appointment to meet Archie, please visit spca.org/dogadopt.

Name: Bosco Age: 1½ years old Breed: Mixed Breed

Meet Bosco! He was rescued by the SPCA of Texas after being mistreated, but he doesn’t let that hold him back! He’s looking for a new family to make up for the time he missed out on being a pet.

He’s a fun-loving, excitable pup who is always down for some fun!

He knows how to sit on command and is very treat motivated, so he hopes his adopter will teach him more tricks in exchange for treats!

He enjoys lots of snacks, playing chase and fetch. He would love an active family with a fenced-in yard where he can run, play and show off. Bosco would do best in a home as the only dog and with teenaged kids and adults only. He has been neutered, microchipped and has received all age-appropriate vaccinations. To request an appointment to meet Bosco, please visit spca.org/dogadopt.

Name: Art Age: 4 years old Breed: Mixed Breed Meet Art! He came to the SPCA of Texas after being terribly abused by someone. When he arrived, he had no idea that he had found a safe place- he was scared of people and didn't want them to come into his kennel. The vet diagnosed him with severe depression and it took him a bit of time to recover. Thankfully, the staff didn't give up on him and he has gained so much confidence since then! Art loves going outside, playing with toys (especially ball toys) and eating yummy treats! He would do best in a home with a private yard and in a home with adults only. Art is looking for a family who will be kind and patient with him as he learns how to be loved by people and shown how great being a pet can be! He has been neutered, microchipped and is current on all age-appropriate vaccinations.

To request an appointment to meet Art, please visit spca.org/dogadopt.

Name: Apollo Age: 3½ years old Breed: Mixed Breed Meet Apollo! If you’re looking for a best buddy, look no further than Apollo.

He came to the SPCA of Texas from a cruelty case, but he’s now ready to find a new family! Apollo's best quality would definitely be his house manners! Apollo is house trained, does well when left alone, knows how to entertain himself, and is generally a quiet and chill guy! He is truly one of the funniest dogs you will ever see - he will watch college football intently with his foster dad and contorts his body into some very silly positions when he settles down for a nap. If you’re looking for an affectionate boy to be your new best friend, he’s the one for you! Apollo is waiting to meet you in an SPCA of Texas foster home. He has been neutered, microchipped and is current on all age-appropriate vaccinations.

To request an appointment to meet Apollo, please visit spca.org/dogadopt.

Name: Kody Age: 4 years old Breed: German Shepherd mix Meet Kody! He’s a handsome gentleman looking for a home of his very own. He can be shy, but once he gets to know you, his playful personality really shines. He loves hard and plays hard, so he needs an adopter who can keep up. His foster mom said he’s super smart. He knows sit, down, leave it, and get it! He learned how to use the bells on the door to go outside in just one day! He requires a house with a large, private backyard where he can get all of his zoomies out multiple times a day. He’d do best with an active family looking for a dog to exercise and play with. He’s a daddy's boy and tends to bond more with men, so hopefully there's at least one male in the home he can look up to. No offense ladies! He can get a bit rowdy, so he’s looking for humans who have experience with large, energetic goofballs like him, and no children. If you have other dogs at home, bring them to meet him to see if they get along!

To request an appointment to meet Kody, please visit spca.org/dogadopt.

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Volume 4, Issue 3