TEXASDOGMAGAZINE SPRING 2020 / VOL. 3 / ISSUE 1

REVIEW: Togo, an American Hero Fill the Bowl for Dogs Matter PUZZLE: Throwback seek-and-find

DOG OF THE YEAR 2020

BENJI THE POMSKI

A TX

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TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE THE DOG M AGAZINE FOR TEXANS

SPRING 2019 / VOL. 2/ ISSUE 1

Fr om t h e cover : 2020 Dog of the Year Benji the Pomsky

TABLE OF

BREED FOCUS

COVER FEATURE

PHOTO STORY

PAGE 13

PAGE 22

Edit or 's Not e ... pg 7

FIDO 411

PAGE 10

Advocat es ... pg 8 Pet 's Per spect ive ... pg 9 FEATURES Breed Focus ... pg 10 Dog of the Year ... pg 13

Dog news brought to you ... pg 14 FUR FUN April Fools ... pg 20 Spring is in the Air ... pg 22 OTHER VOICES

CONTENTS OTHER VOICES

INSTADOGS

PAGE 39

PAGE24

TEXAS TOP DOG

PAGE 38

A Look at Our 2nd Year ... pg 32 SPCA: Strut Your Mutt ... pg 24 Review: Simba's Barkery ... pg 34 PET M D Review: Togo ... pg 35 Vet Talk: Life Expectancy ... pg 26 Texas Top Dog ... pg 38 Heartworm Threat ... pg 28 Instadogs ... pg 39 PUP CULTURE Pu pt ow n Dog Even t s ... pg 42 Anniversary Word Search ... pg 30 K9 Classif ieds ... pg 43

Editor's Note IT?S OUR SECOND BARKDAY! I am so proud to be celebrating another year of publishing Texas Dog Magazine with the same wonderful team. Ruekah and I are so grateful for all of the exciting growth in our community this year and none of that would be possible without YOU! Our readers are incredible and their love for their fur family is even more incredible. It?s so important to us that we are always a place dog owners and dog lovers can come to find educational information, businesses they want to work with, products they need and fun! Going into year three there are some amazing non-profit partnerships I have the honor of highlighting in my 9th-ever editor ?s note. Our top non-profit partner for the year is Dogs Matter and we have a goal of raising $3,000 for their organization over the calendar year. Next, we are continuing our partnership with the SPCA of Texas. The Texas Dog Magazine team will continue to support their cause, as well as attend and cover their events. Additionally, we have started an official non-profit partnership with dogslife this year! Finally, we are continuing our Be a Dog Rescuer campaign in every magazine and including new rescue organizations! Ruekah and I are so grateful for our team. Linda, Tiffany and Alana are a truly hardworking group of amazing animal lovers and proud UNT Alumna. There is no one else I would rather have the honor of bringing all of you what Texas Dog Magazine is with. Thank y?all to everyone from the bottom of our Texan hearts for another year of Texas Dog Magazine!

t exasdogm agazin e.com PUBLISHER Bookshelf Builders Press

EDITOR Nealie Sanchez editor@texasdogmagazine.com

ADVERTISING TXDMadvertising@gmail.com

STAFF Alana Holt alanaTXDM@gmail.com Linda Kessler lindaTXDM@gmail.com Tiffany Ditto tiffanyTXDM@gmail.com

222 E. Ren f r o St ., St e. 108 Bu r leson , TX 76028 Š2018 All rights reserved. Volume 1, Issue 2 No Part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written consent of the publisher.

Barks

Nealie E. Sanchez Founder & Editor TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE | 7

ADVOCATES

Dogs M atter The Dogs M at t er m ission t o provide and prom ot e a safe and healt hy environm ent for dogs of recover ing addict s and alcoholics is one t hat Texas Dog Magazine fully suppor t s and recognizes a need for . This nonprofit is based in Dallas, but reaches m uch far t her t han Nor t h Texas. People across t he count r y have benefit ed from t he ser vices offered by Dogs Mat t er ranging from fost er ing t o aft ercare. Not only does t his organizat ion keep t he dogs safe, but it act ively im proves t he lifest yle of alcoholics and addict s in recover y. We will cont inue t o suppor t t he Dogs M at t er m ission by fundraising t hroughout t he year and host ing t he fir st annual Canine Car nival on Oct . 3, 2020. You can lear n m ore about Dogs M at t er at dogsm at t er 2.org or on social m edia @dogsm at t er .

This year Texas Dog Magazine has t he goal of raising $3,000 for Dogs M at t er .

?DOGS MATTER.?

8 | TEXASDOGMAGAZINE.COM

Food photo created by freepik.

Please join us in ?filling t he dog bowl? by sending your donat ion t o PayPal.Me/ TexasDog wit h t he subject

PET'S PERSPECTIVE

Happy bark day ---------------------------------------By pet columnists Tex & Oakie ---------------------------------------Tex: My hoomans are telling me it?s my second ?bark-day.? I?m not too sure what that means, but I know they have plans for us because they?ve been saying all of my favorite things. ?Dog park,? ?Puppachino,? ?Squeakie,? ?Biscuits? and more! I think I?m getting a special treat for being the goodest boy all this time. Maybe that?s what a bark-day is! My sister is not very happy because she doesn?t get to come with us to the dog park. I told her it?s because she?s a cat, but she won?t listen. Either way, I?m excited to be ?two? ? or whatever the humans said! Woo-hoo! Oak ie: The dog mocks me as the humans prepare a special day for him. Silly dog doesn?t even know what a bark-day is? Meanwhile, my meow-day is much too far away for my liking. He says I can?t come to the dog park, but if there is one thing I want most for my meow-day, it is a trip to the dog park. I?ve heard there is nothing for acres and acres, but silly dogs to pounce on and scare away from all the best trees. Soon? Soon.

TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE | 9

FEA TURES Breed focus: American Pit Bull Terrier -------------------------------------BY: NEALIE SANCHEZ Editor-in-Chief -------------------------------------Texas

Dog

Magazine

was

to The Love Pit, a nonprofit Pit

and athleticism of the Bulldog,?

Bull rescue based in Dallas-Fort

according to the United Kennel

Worth. In honor of Gannicus, in

Club. This association was the first

celebration

to

of

in

founder C. Z. Bennett assigning

recognition of all breeds placed

his own American Pit Bull Terrier

4, 2017. While the first magazine

on breed restriction lists, as well

registration

was released March 1, 2018, many

as the dog parents who continue

American Kennel Club recognizes

don?t know that the first-ever

to adopt, love and care for these

the American Staffordshire Terrier

mock-up edition lives online to

breeds please enjoy our breed

as a breed, the organization does

this day. In this edition, Sanchez

focus:

not recognize the American Pit

named her own dog Gannicus, an

Terrier

Top Dog. In the first edition, the TXDM team would go on to donate

10 | TEXASDOGMAGAZINE.COM

The

things and

recognize this breed, with

founded by Nealie Sanchez on July

American Pit Bull Terrier, Texas

aforementioned

the

American

Pit

Bull

No.

1. While

the

Bull Terrier as a separate breed.

American Pit Bull Terriers are an

With ancestry from the British

interesting mix of ?the gameness

Isles, this dog is known for its

of the terrier with the strength

medium build, short coat, broad

DID YOU KNOW? Apr il 8 is Nat ion al Dog Figh t in g Aw ar en ess Day. The ASPCA created this day to raise awareness about the prevalence of dogfighting in the U.S. Across America, innocent dogs are forced to fight. Take action by signing the petition here: aspca.org/break-the-chain Apr il 12-18, 2020, is An im al Car e an d Con t r ol Appr eciat ion Week . To reduce the stigma surrounding animal control officers, TXDM observes Animal Care and Control Appreciation Week. This week we recognize that these officers pick up abandoned, abused, even dead animals and often are the animals? first line of defense for justice. Coincidentally, Apr il 12-18, 2020, is also Nat ion al Dog Bit e Pr even t ion Week . While reminding the public that any dog can bite, this week is dedicated to the education and prevention of dog bites. Together we can stamp out dog bites.

TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE | 11

skull and wide muzzle. This breed

aggressive breed and subject to

made

can come in any color and pattern

breed-specific legislation or BSL.

bullies and one giant leap for

aside from merle, according to the

Their reputation precedes them,

bully breed kind in the show over

UKC.

dating back as far as the early

the past several years. Louie, an

1800s in Great Britain the breed

American Staffordshire Terrier has

was used in ?bull-baiting.? This

taken Best of Breed in 2016, Best

didn?t last long as this blood sport

of Breed and Group Third in 2017

was outlaws in 1835, according to

and Best of Breed and Group

VetIQ. In fact, since these days the

Second in 2018 paving a way for

American Pit Bull Terrier was used

what some lump together as

by the American military as a

?Bully Breeds.?

The

breed?s

temperament

towards children and families is described as loving by the UKC, however, the organization does address personality traits and training required of the American Pit Bull Terrier stating, ?Because most APBTs exhibit some level of dog aggression and because of its powerful requires

physique, an

owner

the who

APBT will

carefully socialize and obedience train the dog.? It?s no secret that despite many people still owning and caring for this breed, it has a particularly bad reputation often labeled an

symbol in World War I and World War II. Many even believed the most decorated war dog of WWI, Sgt. Stubby, to be a Pit Bull Terrier (other guesses included Boston Terrier mixes).

Terrier

Westminster breed?s American

12 | TEXASDOGMAGAZINE.COM

small

pounce

for

Because of the breed?s short coat, maintenance is relatively low.

PetCareRx

recommends

brushing with a rubber curry brush to maintain coat shine. Please consult your veterinarian

Finally, while the American Pit Bull

one

isn?t Dog

close

shown Show,

relative

Staffordshire

at

for the best practices for your specific

dog.

the the

Terrier

Twitter: @NealieSanchez

DOG OF THE YEAR

Texas Top Dogs of 2019

Nam e: Benjamin (goes by Benji) Br eed: Pomsky (half Pomeranian, half Husky) Age: 2 years old Cit y: Frisco Favor it e t r eat : Bully Sticks Favor it e t oy: Anything he can play tug-o-war with Sh or t bio: Benji is a 30-lb Pomsky living the life in Frisco, TX. He loves to be outside and chase other dogs around. Benji knows a handful of tricks like sit, stay, and roll over, as well as shake with both paws, sit pretty, speak, and play dead. Benji also understands that he?s cute and can get away with anything/everything! He?s so smart and it can be easily said that he?s the best dog ever! TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE | 13 11

FI DO 411 TCAPrelocatesAllenlocationtoservemorepets Courtesy of the Texas Coalition for Animal Protection

Allen ? The Texas Coalition for Animal Protection (TCAP) Allen location is relocating on April 6, and will have the capacity to service 10% more animals per year through a new, larger and more convenient location. ?We?re excited about our new, updated Allen location,? said Stacey Schumacher, TCAP Executive Director. ?Not only will we be able to service more pets, resulting in fewer pets being euthanized in North Texas shelters, but our clients will now be able to wait in line inside a safe, climate controlled location and shielded from harsh Texas weather. This move will result in happier people and healthier pets.? TCAP?s new clinic is located at 111 N. Greenville Ave, Suite A. This location is just down the road from TCAP?s previous Allen clinic, but make a huge difference in how many pets the organization can comfortably service. On surgery days, TCAP?s Allen location sterilizes around 30- 40 pets each day. The new Allen location will have the ability to service up to 50 pets per day more comfortably than ever before. ?Our mission is to end animal overpopulation in North Texas animal shelters,? Schumacher said. ?We can?t accomplish that goal by promoting adoption alone. We must spay and neuter pets, and with the cost of living increasing, these routine surgeries can be out of reach for some pet owners. Our new clinic will allow us the opportunity to serve more pets, and provide more opportunities for pet owners to use our low-cost services.? ? Texas Coalition for Animal Protection 14 | TEXASDOGMAGAZINE.COM

TCAP AND DASF TEAM UP TO PROVIDE FREE RABIES VACCINES Free Rabies vaccines for Denton County cats and dogs Lake Dallas/Denton ? The Texas Coalition for Animal Protection (TCAP) and the Denton Animal Support Foundation (DASF) are teaming up to provide free rabies vaccines. Free rabies vaccines will be provided on a walk-in basis from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. on the following days: - Apr il 11, 2020: MLK Recreation Center, 1300 Wilson St., Denton TX 76205 - The Denton Animal Support Foundation (DASF) will sponsor free rabies vaccines for Denton County pets at this event. All other vaccines will be provided at our regular low-cost prices. - M ay 16, 2020: Linda McNatt Animal Care and Adoption Center, 3717 N Elm St, Denton, TX 76207

- Only rabies rabies vaccines are free at this event. All other vaccines and services will be offered at our regular low-cost prices. - Ju n e 6, 2020: Lake Dallas Animal Services, 687 N Lakeview Drive, Lake Dallas, TX 75065 ?Rabies is required by law, but it?s also a deadly zoonotic disease,? said TCAP Executive Director Stacey Schumacher. ?It?s important for your family?s health to ensure that your pet stays current on their Rabies vaccine. There is no cure for the Rabies virus. Our only defense is to stay away from potentially infected wildlife and to keep pets current on their vaccines.? In addition to free rabies vaccines for Denton County pets, TCAP is offering half-price microchips for pets at the event. 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 you and reunite you with your pet.

Courtesy of the Advanced Stem Cell Therapies Facebook page

Find out more information about what vaccinations your pets needs at: texasforthem.org/services/vaccinations/ dog-vaccinations/ For more information call Tiffany Ditto at 940-566-5551 ext 1108 or email tiffanyditto.tcap@gmail.com. ? Texas Coalition for Animal Protection

DOGS INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN STEM CELL THERAPY TRIAL Advanced Care Veterinary Services in Carrollton is participating in a national clinical trial of stem cell therapy (yes, stem cells) for treating arthritis in large dogs. Arthritic dogs are needed for enrolling in the study. Dogs weighing 70 pounds or more are invited to participate (for free!) in

the double-blind, placebo-controlled study administered by Advanced Care Veterinary Services, in conjunction with San-Diego based Animal Cell Therapies. The study is being conducted to show the effectiveness of stem cells in treating dogs weighing 70 pounds or more who have arthritis in up to two joints of the knee, hip, elbow or shoulder.

Interested dog owners can learn more details and complete an initial screening questionnaire by visiting dogstemcellstudy.com Participants will receive study-related medical cost free of charge (X-rays, bloodwork, exam(s), etc.) and, upon completion, a BarkBox for their pup.

If qualified, participation will consist of three visits: 1) screening, 2) injection and 3) one-month follow-up exam. Arthritis is a significant problem for large dogs (and smaller dogs too). A full 70% of dogs over 7 years old are impacted by arthritis, and it is even more common in larger dogs. ? Kristine Olson, Advanced Cell Therapies

TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE | 15

NEW S ATTEND HOUSTON'S 4t h ANNUAL BARKMITZVAH

Each year, the Bark Mitzvah keeps getting bigger and better. Last year, we had 203 dogs registered in advance (to receive a dog chew toy giveaway), and many more dogs and owners attended than that!

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713-782-4162. ? Justin Deutsch, Houston Congregation for Reform Judaism

Courtesy of the Houston Congregation for Reform Judaism

Houston Congregation for Reform Judaism, a congregation of 300-plus families in the Galleria area, is hosting their 4th annual Bark Mitzvah event from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, March 29 in the congregation's parking lot. While Jewish teens have a Bar/Bat Mitzvah when they are 13, this event is for dogs! The festival is free and open to the community with food trucks, a pet vendor fair, pet service projects, a Bark Mitzvah service led by our Rabbi, Steve Gross, music and more. To see video from the group's first-ever Bark Mitzvah in 2016 visit youtube.com/watch?v=zSrU9HDyfUY.

All pets must be on a leash and please register your pups via email to justin@hcrj.org or by phone at

NEW S NEW PET-INCLUSIVE HOUSING INITIATIVE LAUNCHED LOS ANGELES ? At the beginning of the year, non-profit organizations Michelson Found Animals Foundation and the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) announced the launch of the Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative, "a research and resource development initiative that promotes access to the joy of pets in every home." The launch included the release of their survey research on pets and rental housing in the United States. According to a news release, the research shows that, while the majority of rental housing allows pets, there are still significant restrictions for pet-owning renters. Additionally, there are major opportunities for property owners and operators to ease such restrictions. "More pet-inclusive rentals could

lead to millions more adoptions for renters who want pets," said Aimee Gilbreath, Michelson Found Animals' executive director.

"my pet has been a reason for me needing to move," meaning as many as 6 million people have experienced a move related to pet ownership.

Steven Feldman, HABRI executive director, added: "The health and wellness benefits of pet ownership are well documented. Both renters and property managers understand how great pets are, and when restrictions are lifted, everyone can enjoy the full benefits of the human-animal bond."

83% of property managers say that pet-friendly vacancies can be filled faster.

According to the release, one third of pet owners in restricted pet-friendly housing said they would get another pet if restrictions were lifted, and 35% of non-pet-owners in non-pet-friendly housing would get a pet if restrictions were lifted. The survey found that with changes that would ease restrictions as many as 8.75 million animals could find new homes over time. Some findings from the survey: 24% of renters with pets said that

79% of property managers say that pet-friendly vacancies are easier to fill. Residents in pet-friendly units stay longer, averaging 4.6 years vs. 3.8 years for non-pet-friendly units. "Pets are good for business. This data shows there are real opportunities for property owners and operators to achieve higher levels of occupancy and retention," Feldman added in the release "With the Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative, we hope to bring housing providers and the pet care community together, so that everyone can learn and benefit from this new data." ? TXDM staff report

TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE | 17

NEW S CDC: NO EVIDENCE PETS ARE A SOURCE OF CORONAVIRUS Follow basic hygiene practices to keep yourselves, pets healthy SAN DIEGO ? Petco is closely monitoring the evolving outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19), particularly as it pertains to the health and safety of our partners, the pets in our care, pet parents and their pets. In an effort to keep pet parents informed of the latest and most accurate information about pets and the coronavirus, Petco will be providing updated information to help pet parents make informed decisions about their pets at petco.com/covid19 where pet parents can get up-to-date facts about pets and COVID-19. According to Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there is currently no known reason to think that any

18 | TEXASDOGMAGAZINE.COM

animals, including pets in the United States, can be infected with or spread COVID-19. To date, CDC has not received any reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19. However, since animals can spread other diseases to people, the CDC always recommends washing your hands after being around animals. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19. As the disease continues to spread, the CDC recommends following routine preventive measures that can help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including the coronavirus and flu, including: - Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are

-

-

-

not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay home when you are sick. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. Individuals with chronic health issues and/or individuals experiencing severe symptoms should be evaluated by a medical professional.

"The latest report from the Centers for Disease Control is clear that there is no evidence that pets can be a source of infection of COVID-19 or that they become sick with the virus," said Dr. Thomas

Edling, DVM, MSpVM, MPH, consulting veterinarian at Petco. "Apart from maintaining good hygiene practices, pet owners need not be overly concerned and under no circumstances should they abandon their pets because of COVID-19." "We know Coronavirus/COVID-19 is a concerning topic for people

everywhere, including pet parents," said Petco CEO Ron Coughlin. "With news around the current outbreak continuing to change daily, we're tapping into our Petco Pet Wellness Council, an independent coalition of leading experts in animal health and veterinary science, to provide perspective on the most important things pet parents need to know,

and we'll continue to provide updates as the situation evolves." Pet parents who have concerns or further questions regarding coronavirus can visit the CDC's FAQ on COVID-19 and animals and the CDC's Healthy Pets, Healthy People website or visit petco.com/covid19. ? PetCo

TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE | 19

TEXASDO TMAGAZINE CAG SPRING 2020 / VOL. 1/ ISSUE 1

Everything you need to know about catnip

POP Cats fest comes to Austin this summer

Everybody wants to be a cat

Apr il Fool 's! P

FUR FUN 20 | TEXASDOGMAGAZINE.COM

A

N

EW

ET

P

U

B

C LI

A

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N

PHOTO STORY

S p r in g is

Image by Gerhard Gellinger from Pixabay

Photo by Jake Weirick on Unsplash 22 | TEXASDOGMAGAZINE.COM

Photo by Leon Bublitz on Unsplash

in t he a ir Wa n t you r pu p t f ea u r o h av ed i n e a ch a TXD Su b m a n ce M i t you ph ot o t o be r f av o s t o ed p r ea d ? r it e f u i t or @ r t a st t ex a s ic ph o d o gm t os a ga zi n e .c o m!

Photo by Alvan Nee on Unsplash

Photo by Georgia de Lotz on Unsplash

TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE | 23

OTHER V OI CES Helpanimalsinneedwhilestruttingyour mutt SPCA OF TEXAS Facebook : @spcaof t exaspage Tw it t er : @SPCAof Texas In st agr am : @spcat exas Websit e: spca.or g

What most North Texans don?t know is how many animals are being abused, neglected and abandoned, just in this area alone. The SPCA of Texas (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Texas) is the leading animal welfare agency in North Texas with two shelters and three spay/neuter clinics located in Dallas and McKinney. The organization?s Animal Cruelty Investigations Unit investigates more than 3,700 animal cruelty cases each year, many of which result in criminal convictions. On average, they end up rescuing over 3,000 animals out of harm?s way every year in multiple Texas counties. The SPCA of Texas is a non-profit and relies 100% on the support of the community to continue their operations. In hopes to continue making a positive impacts for animals in our community and raise awareness about animal cruelty in North Texas, the SPCA of Texas is hosting the 15th Annual Strut Your Mutt, The Race to End Animal Cruelty on Saturday, May 9. This 3K fun run/walk and 5K timed run benefitting the SPCA of Texas will be held at the base of the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge in Dallas. This will be a fun and exciting event for all four- and two-legged members of the family. In addition, all donations and registration fees raised will support the organizations efforts to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome thousands of animals in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Registration is $35 for the 3K fun run and $40 for the timed 5K (canine companions are welcome but not required). If you are interested in registering, visit gostrut.org. Online registration will be available until May 9. The festivities will kick-off at 7:30 a.m. with SPCA 2018 Strut Your Mutt. Courtesy of Facebook. registration, then community to take the next step and head to the Revamped Security ? form a team at gostrut.org and Authorized ADT Dealer Main Stage for fundraise to help the SPCA of Texas. pre-race warm-ups with emcees from Once you register your team and give it 106.1 KISS FM, 102.9 NOW and Lone a memorable name, you can set up Star 92.5, as well as the Dallas your fundraising goal, recruit team Mavericks ManiAACs. The timed 5K will members and build team spirit through begin at 8:30 a.m. and the 3K fun run your team page. will start at 9:30 a.m. The SPCA of Texas is grateful to its All registrants can do even more help Strut Your Mutt sponsors, including: the SPCA of Texas raise funds for its Presenting Sponsors: VCA Animal critical work supporting our Hospitals, Hill?s Pet Nutrition; community?s most vulnerable pets and their people by participating in the Main Stage Sponsor: Revamped individual and corporate fundraising Security - Authorized ADT Dealer; Media challenges for cool prizes. Top Sponsors: iHeart Radio, 106.1 KISS FM, fundraising challenge prizes will be Lone Star 92.5, 102.9 NOW; awarded to participants who collect the Entertainment Sponsors: Dallas most pledges. Donations may be made Mavericks ManiAACs, RadioDJ s.com. for Strut Your Mutt through May 31. In addition to the walk and run, strutters will enjoy refreshments, as well as free food. There will also be plenty of family-friendly events for you to enjoy in our Bow-Wow-Bazaar and Meow Market, which will include vendor booths, activities for pets and kids, demonstrations and more! The

24 | TEXASDOGMAGAZINE.COM

SPCA

of

Texas

invites

the

For high-profile sponsorship opportunities, please contact Victoria Albrecht at valbrecht@spca.org or 214-461-1846. This article is part of TXDM?s initiative to share the stories of Texas rescues, nonprofits and other dog related organizations, as well as the businesses that support them.

PET M D Increasing your dog?s life expectancy require diets higher in fiber and lower in calories compared to younger dogs.

that accumulates on your pet?s teeth is composed of over 80% bacteria.

Multiple small meals a day can be better for your pet?s gastrointestinal health than feeding a larger meal

This bacteria can enter your pet?s blood stream and can cause lesions on the heart valves and kidneys that,

once daily. Always remember to follow the feeding guidelines for the specific food you are feeding because pets can

in time, ultimately cause heart disease and kidney dysfunction. Regular dental cleanings, the use of enzymatic

become overweight, even on a healthy diet.

water supplements, regular tooth brushing with a pet approved toothpaste and dental approved

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT

-------------------------------------BY: KAREN METZLER Vet Talk -------------------------------------The average dog lives 10 to 13 years, with small dogs generally living longer than large dogs. Thanks to significant progress in veterinary medicine and nutrition, our pets? lifespan has increased significantly over the past century. We all want our pets to live as long as possible. While genetics plays an important inherited role in a pet?s longevity, there is still plenty that a pet owner can do to prolong the life of their dog. Consider the following:

HEALTHY DIET

Maintain your pet?s weight to a slim, trim, fit and lean body mass. This is best assessed by running your hand down your pet?s rib cage. You should be able to feel the individual ribs, rather than a fat pad over the surface of the ribs. Obese dogs are at an increased risk of developing arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, cancer and heart disease. If your dog is overweight, consult your veterinarian for developing a weight loss plan for your pet.

EXERCISE DAILY Regular exercise builds and strengthens muscles, enhances circulation, increases metabolism, prevents obesity, and improves heart and brain function. Short, frequent walks on a daily basis are much better

Dogs require diets that are healthy, nutrient complete and appropriate for each stage of life. Pet nutrition

for your pet?s overall health than a long walk only once a week. Exercise needs will vary and should be

education may seem like a daunting task for the pet owner. Be sure to choose diets that are only natural,

appropriate for your pet?s individual level of stamina and strength.

organic and come from proven sources made by American manufacturers with a solid, long-standing reputation. Senior dogs 26 | TEXASDOGMAGAZINE.COM

REGULAR DENTAL CARE Dental tartar accumulation leads to tooth decay, gingivitis, gingival recession and tooth loss. The tartar

chews can keep your pet?s mouth clean and prevent future health problems.

REGULAR VETERINARY CARE Physical exams are important in maintaining your pet healthy and disease free. A thorough physical exam with fecal, blood and urine testing will allow your veterinarian to detect early changes in your pet?s health. Many illnesses, when detected in an early stage, are more likely to be treated and resolved successfully. Physical exams are recommended once a year for young and middle aged dogs and twice yearly for seniors.

STAY CURRENT ON HEARTWORM, FLEA AND TICK PREVENTATIVE Preventing

parasitic

disease

is

essential in keeping your dog well. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations for the best product for your pet. Check your pet regularly for any evidence of parasites. Reduce

Pet

Stress

with

Mental

Stimulation: Dogs thrive on mental activity and simulation. Keeping them mentally stimulated reduces pet stress and helps to prevent depression, anxiety and illness. Training exercises, socialization, games, toy play and food puzzles are all ways to enrich and stimulate your pet?s mind. Your dog will thrive with the mental stimulation and the bond you share with your pet will strengthen. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet?s health, always visit or call your veterinarian. Veterinarians serve as your best resource when it comes to your pet?s health and well-being. Dr. Karen J. Metzler is a veterinarian with Summerfields Animal Hospital in Fort Worth. Dr. Metzler was fortunate to grow up in a home filled with a wide variety of family pets including hamsters, birds, cats, dogs and horses. She has always loved animals, so it was only natural for her to choose veterinary medicine as her career path. She graduated from Texas A&M?s, College of Veterinary Medicine in 1997. She has experience in emergency medicine as well as general practice. She has specific interests in surgery, dentistry, internal medicine, exotics and cardiology. Dr. Metzler is dedicated to her Photo by Alvan Nee on Unsplash. profession as well as her Meridythe, Maycie and Noah ? live in family. She, her husband Jeff, and their six Bowie, Texas. They enjoy the country life as children ? Daniel, Brandon, Madison, it supports the many family pets and farm

animals they care for and love.

TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE | 27

HEALTH

A silent killer

Heartworms pose year-round threat for Texas Pets -------------------------------------BY: TIFFANY DITTO Staff Writer -------------------------------------Mosquitos are a nuisance for humans spreading diseases like the Zika virus, malaria, dengue fever, West Nile virus, yellow fever and many others. But they?re not just a threat to humans, they?re also a threat to your furbaby. For Texas dogs, heartworms pose a year-round threat. Texas? warm, humid weather is the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes and all it takes is just one bite from an infected insect to give your baby heartworms. ?Pets are more susceptible to heartworms in Texas because they contract them from mosquitoes, which stay present in Texas all year long,? said Dr. Suzie Smith, a contract wellness veterinarian for Texas Coalition for Animal Protection. ?Texas never has a full freeze that lasts long enough for mosquitoes to hibernate, or completely die off. In fact, I got bit by a mosquito when it was 54 degrees outside. Pets don't even have to go outside to be bitten by a mosquito because I have found them inside my suburban area home the day after it snowed!? Heartworms can grow up to a foot long and live in the arteries of dog?s and cat?s hearts and lungs. Since dogs are the parasite?s natural host, these worms thrive inside of their bodies and can multiply until your pet has hundreds of worms living in their heart muscle ? causing irreversible damage. Dr. Beau Black, an associate veterinarian at Town and Country Animal Hospital in Aubrey, said these worms are easy to prevent, but especially dangerous if pet owner ?s don?t 28 | TEXASDOGMAGAZINE.COM

keep their pet on prevention. ?Heartworms are dangerous because they can infect un-protected dogs by migrating to the heart and growing in the pulmonary artery,? Black said. ?Enough heartworms can eventually obstruct the pulmonary artery, leading to right-sided heart failure. This damage can be permanent to the heart muscle, and lead to ascites (fluid in the abdomen) and liver failure.? Heartworms develop in the heart and bloodstream of infected pets. When they lay larvae these ?baby worms? are distributed throughout the bloodstream. These larvae can then be sucked up by a mosquito when it bites your pet. Once this happens, the mosquito is now infected and able to transmit the disease to other cats and dogs. For your pet to be diagnosed as heartworm positive, the worms must develop into adults. This process typically takes about 6 months. Because of this, the American Heartworm Society recommends testing your pet for heartworms once a year. Any test done before the worms develop into adults could result in a false negative, when in reality your pet is infected with the dangerous parasite. According to the American Heartworm Society, symptoms of heartworm disease in dogs include a persistent cough, shortness of breath or reluctance to exercise, fatigue after moderate activity, weight loss, decreased appetite and sudden collapse from blood flow blockages. Many of these symptoms aren?t present until the disease is in the advanced stages ? meaning the worm burden on your pet?s heart is large. ?Heartworms can be silent killers,?

Smith said. ?For some pets, there are no symptoms until the disease is more advanced. When it is more advanced, it can cause breathing difficulties, heart failure and even renal failure.? The best way to prevent your pet from getting heartworm disease is to keep your pet on year-round prevention. Different kinds of prevention exist. The most popular is once monthly chewable tablets of Ivermectin ? a drug known to kill infant worms, preventing them from ever maturing into adults. These chews range in price, but many companies, like Heartgard, guarantee their product and will pay for your pet?s treatment should they become infected with the parasite while on their prevention. There are also injectable preventions like ProHeart 6 and ProHeart 12. These medications are administered by a veterinarian and last for either six or 12 months. All heartworm preventatives require a prescription from a veterinarian, so make sure the next time your pet is at the vet, you make it a priority to get your pet started on prevention or renew your pet?s prescription. Pets are diagnosed with heartworm disease by collecting a blood sample and then using a specialized antigen test to detect the presence of the worms. If your furbaby is diagnosed with heartworm disease it?s not necessarily a death sentence, but it will cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars to get your pet heartworm free. Furthermore, treating the disease is not easy, and requires that your pet follow a strict regimen of no activity for at least 4-6 weeks. ?Heartworm treatment (immiticide) is

Texas ranks 4th in the nation for the most reported cases of heartworm infections, according to 2016 data by the American Heartworm Society. Photo courtesy of American Heartworm Society.

the only recommended treatment by the American Heartworm Society for dogs with heartworm infestation,? Black said. ?The treatment consists of immiticide injections, which kill the adult heartworms. These dead worms have to decompose and worm fragments can lodge in the distal pulmonary arteries and capillaries in the lung lobes, resulting in a thromboembolism [blood clot] and cut off blood flow to a portion of the lungs. Increased blood flow and blood pressure increases the likelihood of permanent fibrosis [excess tissue

development] and scarring of the lungs. This is the main reason it is so important to restrict exercise, especially the four weeks after the immiticide injections.? Immiticide injections are painful for pets, and veterinarians often have to give pets pain medication while they receive treatment. The best way to ensure that your pet stays happy and healthy is to prevent heartworm infection by keeping your pet on prevention. ?Prevention

is

99.9%

effective

keeping your pets from having any of those heartworm related complications and there are so many cost-effective options,? Smith said. ?Treating heartworms, although effective, can be very harsh on your pet's body and does not undo the damage that heartworms inflict on your pet's heart and other vital organs.? For more information, heartwormsociety.org.

visit

Twitter: @TiffanyDitto

at TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE | 29

PUP CULTURE Happy 2nd bar kday t o TXDM

Through TXDM Advocates we donated funds in 2019 to Don?t Forget to FEED Me, Texas Great Pyrenees RESCUE, Animal Investigation and RESPONSE and SWEETPUPS Dog Rescue. Additionally, 2019 saw the start of our dog rescuer campaign. Our Texas Top Dogs of 2019 included TIPSY the Miniature Dachshund, ZARA the American Bulldog and Staffordshire Terrier, BENJI the Pomsky (Pomeranian-Huskey) and BEAU the Bagel (Beagle-Basset Hound). Thanks to our quarterly breed focus, readers learned about the BLUE Lacy, Great PYRENEES, GREYHOUND and CHINESE Crested Dog. We shared guest pieces by the SPCA, DOGSLIFE, Pacific PAWS and BURLY Bear the Pomeranian. We reviewed many pup-starring FILMS from ?A Dog?s Way HOME,? to ?Life in the DOGHOUSE,? and Disney?s ?Lady and the TRAMP? remake. Our staffers shared the stories of JOPLIN the Storm Chasing Dog and THEODORE the Golden Crag Dog while also teaching readers about finding love on DIGDATES and how to take PAWFECT pet photos.

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TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE | 33

REVIEW

Barkery bakes up delectable pup treats -------------------------------------BY: TIFFANY DITTO Staff Writer -------------------------------------Dog moms and dads are always looking for new ways to spend time with their pet and reward them for being the goodest boys and girls. Simba?s Barkery, an online dog bakery based out of Plano, sells delectable treats for pups with human grade ingredients. They even sell dog beer ? so of course we had to see what our pets thought of their products. We tried three of the Barkery?s products and put them to the test with our resident taste tester, a spunky Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Riley. Riley did the honors in trying Simba?s Barkery Dog Beer, Peanut Butter Barking Bites and Pupcakes. Riley absolutely loved the Peanut Butter Barking Bites. These treats are a natural version of the classic crispy bone shaped dog treat. When opening the bag, the smell of peanut butter wafts out making the pet parent?s mouth water for a peanut butter sandwich. Riley had no problem scarfing down the treats and would even tap his feet hoping for another one. The treats seemed to keep for the week and a half that it took Riley to finish them. Even though this treat is made from human grade ingredients, it was apparent it was very dry, so we didn?t try them ourselves to double check Riley?s taste buds (we learned our lesson when we tried Zookies Cookies). We definitely recommend this crispy treat for North Texas puppers. In addition to the Peanut Butter 34 | TEXASDOGMAGAZINE.COM

Barking Bites, Riley lapped up the Dog Beer without thinking twice. Simba?s Barkery Dog Beer is made from apples, water and peanut butter. The beer smells like peanut butter and is bottled in a traditional glass beer bottle. Now you and your pet can both crack open a cold one after a long day. We decided to give this product a try, after all it is all human grade right? The Dog Beer is surprisingly refreshing. It is crisp like an apple but has the flavor of peanut butter. We give this product four paws up. The last product Riley tried were the Pupcakes. This was Riley?s least favorite of the Barkery treats. However, we know his taste buds are not the only authority on the subject. A quick scroll through the Barkery?s Google reviews show that most pups find the cakes absolutely delicious. The Pupcakes are made from dog-approved ingredients, topped with icing and a cute bone shaped treat. Riley did end up eating the cake, but was unsure at first. He wasn?t as excited about this product as some of the others, but it?s possible that this dog, like his owner, just isn?t a big fan

Photos by Tiffany Ditto of cake. We didn?t try this product either because, like we said, Riley?s owner is not a big fan of cake. Though they are based out of Plano, Simba?s Barkery does pop-up events across Texas. Look for their #DogBar at an event near you! Overall we give Simba?s Barkery 3.5 out of 4 paws up!

Twitter: @TiffanyDitto

REVIEW

Truestory of an American Hero -------------------------------------BY: TIFFANY DITTO Staff Writer -------------------------------------Disney?s Togo is a tale of adventure, heroism, and the love between a man and his dog. Togo

will

team reaches the city, they find that the

paths with one of the relay teams. The

children have fallen ill as diphtheria

journey takes its toll on Togo, who has a

wreaks havoc on the townspeople.

heart of steel and a will that won?t quit,

Doctors and city officials plead for

but

Seppala to go and retrieve lifesaving

The team takes on blistering winds, a

medicine nearly 674 miles away. Due to

not so frozen body of water and their

the storm, the government was unable

own body?s will to rest at a time when

to send a plane into the city with the

they simply can?t. Togo is a story that will

medication ?

make you appreciate the love you have

meaning Seppala was

their only hope.

on

the

viewer?s

the trip

and

takes his best

dog,

heartstrings as it evokes a fury of

12-year-old Togo, with him. Throughout

emotions from frustration, pride and

their journey, we see flashbacks of a

hope to sorrow, laughter and, most of

young Togo and the trouble he caused

all, love. Viewers will be rushed away on

his master. Viewers will laugh at the

musher Leonhard Seppala?s sled as he

pup?s

travels 261 miles across the Alaskan

dedication

wilderness with his team of Husky sled

hopes

dogs.

selected as part of

antics as

an

older

dog.

them a little tighter. It?s a story full of great triumph, love and heartbreak, and for all of those reasons and more, we give Togo a perfect four paws up.

Twitter: @TiffanyDitto

to

he be

Seppala?s sled team.

on Disney+ on Dec. 20 as one of many

We see a stubborn

promised pieces of content exclusive to

dog who ultimately

the streaming platform. The movie aims

knows

to set the record straight as to which

loves

and,

dog historically saved the city of Nome

time,

proves

in the 1925 serum run to Nome, Alaska.

worth.

who

he with his

A perolis journey

another team, stole the fame and credit

unfolds,

for bringing the lifesaving drugs the

officials decide to

children of Nome needed to fight the

send

help

to

diphtheria outbreak of the time ? so

Seppala.

much so that a statue was erected of

Unbeknownst

to

Balto in Central Park 10 months after

him, officials have

the 1925 run (yes, it?s still there).

decided to initiate a

The movie opens on Seppala mushing

of

and

Togo (based on a true story) premiered

Historically, Balto, a sled dog from

body

with your own pets and make you hold

Reluctantly, Seppala agrees to make tug

the

and

sled-dog

relay

to

his dog team across a snowy terrain. A

get the medication

storm brews in the distance, and we see

back to Alaska. It?s

that Seppala?s dogs want to chase a pack

only

of caribou, but instead choose to run for

happenstance, and

the city ? indicating that this storm is

after over 135 miles

one that animals know to fear. Once the

of

by

mere

mushing,

the team

that

crosses TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE | 35 13

TEXAS TOP DOG Dogs of t h e M on t h

Nam e: Goose Br eed: Yellow Labrador Retriever Age: 5 months Favor it e Tr eat : Pumpkin Favor it e Toy: Lamb Bio: Goose is the happiest boy and his favorite thing to do is smile! He has two cat siblings that he loves to play with. He is a bit shy around new people but warms up quickly once he gets to know you! He also loves to have his belly rubbed! You can check out his Instagram @catcat.goose to see his shenanigans. Goose lives in Bedford, Texas. 38 | TEXASDOGMAGAZINE.COM

#tex asdogsof i nsta

TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE | 39

(LEFT) Flowers a the Dallas Arboretum, by TXDM's Linda Kessler. (RIGHT) Pup gets their photo taken during Puptopia Houston, courtesy of Puptopia Facebook page.

PUPTOW N EVENTS

MARCH PUPTOPIA FESTIVAL 2020 The first-ever amazement park for dogs and their owners is coming to Dallas! Purchase tickets at puptopiafestival.com/ buy-tickets. Saturday, March 21 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Main Street Garden ? 1902 Main St. Dallas M UTT M ADNESS Come in team spirit for brunch, themed cocktails, and a Sparkle Bar as we celebrate March Madness! Dress your furry friends in team colors at The Spirit Station with bandannas, bows, and other animal-safe beauty products and compete in an epic game of Puppy & Parent Musical Chairs. Champion gets an awesome prize and bragging rights. Sunday, March 22 from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Perle on Maple?s Courtyard located at The Stoneleigh ? 2927 Maple Avenue, Dallas 1ST ANNUAL DOGSLIFE BREAKFAST PAW-TY Purchase tickets at dogslife.org/ breakfastpawty Saturday, March 28 from 9-11 a.m. at the Dallas Arboretum ? 8525 Garland Road, Dallas PUPTOPIA FESTIVAL 2020 The first-ever amazement park

42 | TEXASDOGMAGAZINE.COM

for dogs and their owners is coming to Dallas! Purchase tickets at puptopiafestival.com/ buy-tickets. Saturday, March 28 from 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. AT Discovery Green ? 1500 McKinney Street Houston

APRIL YOU HAD M E AT WOOF ? A DOG SOCIAL Making friends (doggies and humans alike), munchin' on snacks, sippin' dranks, and havin' great conversations! Thursday, April 2 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at The Shacks at Austin Ranch ? 5800 Windhaven Parkway, The Colony PUPTOPIA FESTIVAL 2020 The first-ever amazement park for dogs and their owners is coming to Dallas! Purchase tickets at puptopia festival.com/ buy-tickets. Saturday, April 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Mueller Lake Park ? 4550 Mueller Blvd. Austin

MAY DALLAS PET EXPO Enjoy has tons of pet-related exhibitors, expert pet speakers, presentations, entertaining pet demonstrations, low-cost pet vaccinations, free nail trims, and rescue pet adoptions. Get tickets at petexpos.ticket leap.com/dallas-petexpo. Saturday & Sunday, May 16 from 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. and May 17 from 11 A.M. to 4 P.M. at Dallas Market Hall ? 2200 N Stemmons Freeway, Dallas UNLEASHED PAWS FUR FUN RUN 2020 The Fur Fun Run is a Memorial Day weekend celebration that offers a 5K run/walk, 1-mile pet stroll and dog-friendly pawty too. There is even a paw-ty pass for those who just want to come hang out with fellow dog lovers. Learn more at unleash edpaws.com/fur-fun-run Saturday, May 23 from 8-11 a.m. at White Rock Alehouse & Brewery ? 7331 Gaston Ave., Ste. 100, Dallas Note: In light of concerns of the spread of COVID-19, the new coronavirus, many events are being canceled and postponed. Please check event websites for the most up-to-date information.

GROOMI NG

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---------------------------------------------

PET STORES ---------------------------------------------

MC K9 Training

Daisy And Dog Barktique

www.mck9training.com

www.daisyanddog.com

281-672-8514

972-876-2992

Wagg the Dog Trainer

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505-322-1552

TREATS

geauxfideaux@gmail.com

409-923-9100

---------------------------------------------

RESORTS & DAYCARE

H ippie Houndz

Noah?s Bark

---------------------------------------------

www.hippiehoundz.com

www.buynoahsbark.com

Bones & Bacon Pet Resort

469-438-6177 Simba?s Barkery

911 W. Commerce St. Dallas, TX

Modern Paw Furniture

www.thebarkerydfw.com

www.bonesandbaconpetresort

www.modernpawfurniture.com

469-859-0799

.com

817-789-5677 Three Dog Bakery

469-726-2722 Paw Pros

Plano, TX

Daisy?s Dog House

www.pawprostx.com

www.threedogdfw.com

712 Fairview St.

469-585-3192

972-473-2275

WELLNESS

Houston, TX www.daisysdoghouse.com

The French & I

713-521-7877

www.thefrenchandi.com

On 4 Legs Wellness

512-662-6100

www.on4legs.com

Howl N Woof 10010 Manchaca Road, Ste. C Austin, TX www.howlnwoof.com 512-282-9663

RAI NBOW BRI DGE

---------------------------------------------

469-901-2279

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Toothacres Pet Crematory & Cemetery

Pet Tech

1639 Parker Road

214-476-9938

www.powertothepawz.com

Carrollton, TX TEXAS DOG MAGAZINE | 43

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