The Dog Dish Magazine - March/April 2018

u We Asked: What is Your Dog’s Silliest Habit?

March/April 2018

Dogs Day Out: Where to Go with Your Pooch

Dinner is Served

Reunited and It Feels So Good

Apps for Dog Parents

What You Need to Know About Parvo 1 • The Dog Dish Magazine

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March/April 2018 • 3

LETTER FROM THE

PUBLISHER: Greetings, readers!

I’m so glad you picked up a copy of The Dog Dish. I’m also glad that spring is on its way and we’ll all be able to get out and enjoy the outdoors with our dogs. You probably recognize that handsome dog in the photo with me. That’s Major the Rig Dog from our last issue!

Be sure to check out Page 11 to read about some great apps for pawrents, reviewed by our former cover dog, Finch, and his dad, Brent.

Bring Fido sounds like it would be a great tool for finding dog-friendly spots to check out this spring. Also make sure to read the piece on Page 14 about healthy foods to add to your dog’s bowl; it pairs well with a food-related app that Finch and Brent reviewed for you.

Many of you have told us you’d like to see more about places in the metro you can take your dog, other than restaurant patios. Your wish is our command!

On page 26 you’ll find the first edition of a new segment we’ll be doing from time to time: Dog’s Day Out: The Dish on the Best Dog-Friendly Shops in the Metro. When you and your dog shop at Plenty Mercantile, tell them The Dog Dish sent you!

As you well know, rescue is a cause near and dear to our hearts. We had the privilege of visiting with All Paws Rescue about the work they’re doing for dogs and other furry friends in our area. Be sure to read more about them on Page 12. Consider getting involved with a rescue or shelter this spring! It feels great to give back and those sweet babies are so worth your time. You can find a list of local shelters and rescue groups on our website. We also shared the miraculous homecoming story of a local rescue dog, Bridget, that you definitely won’t want to miss.

In the last few months, we’ve seen several of our rescue friends and other individuals share about dogs who are undergoing treatment for Parvovirus so Dr. Zac Coldiron, DVM, shared with you some invaluable information on this scary virus and how you can protect your fur baby. Make sure your pup’s vaccinations are up-to-date as Parvo is more prevalent during warm, wet months. Also check out the piece by Barkley University on Page 22 about why a positive approach to training is the way to go.

We want to welcome a few new advertisers to the Dog Dish family. Thanks so much to Neel Veterinary Hospital, realtor Nancy V Lynn, and mortgage loan originator Courtni Daily! Our advertising partners make this free publication possible and we encourage you, our sweet readers, to support them! You can find a list of our favorite local businesses in the Local Resource Guide in the back of each issue.

Thanks for reading!

Katie Munda Publisher 4 • The Dog Dish Magazine

PUBLISHER: Katie Munda katie@thedogdishok.com EDITOR: Michelle Van Swearingen ART DIRECTOR: Shane Kroutil The Art House PHOTOGRAPHER: Katie Munda OPERATIONS MANAGER: Matt Munda matt@thedogdishok.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Dr. Zac Coldiron, DVM, Stoneridge Animal Hospital Michelle Van Swearingen, Barkley University Dog Training Kelsey Warren-Bryant Brent Pedersen Katie Munda ADVERTISING SALES: (405) 245-9059 advertise@thedogdishok.com P.O. Box 31671 Edmond, OK 73003 info@thedogdishok.com www.thedogdishok.com The Dog Dish Magazine Copyright 2018 Cover to Cover blog.thedogdishok.com facebook.com/thedogdishmagazine @dogdishmag @thedogdishmag info@thedogdishok.com Articles and advertisements in The Dog Dish Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or the publisher. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

UPCOMING EVENTS Looking for something fun to do in the Oklahoma City metro? Note: Not all of the events below are dog friendly. Events listed here are either dog friendly or support dogs or rescues. Keep current on local events at www. thedogdishok.com.

March Ride Like an Animal Rescue Ride Saturday, March 10, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Harley-Davidson World, 6904 W Reno Ave, Oklahoma City A motorcycle ride to benefit rescue pups! Registration begins at 11 a.m. and proceeds benefit Friends of the Mustang Animal Shelter and Bella SPCA.

Pastels, Paws & Prints Sunday, March 11, 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Neel Veterinary Hospital, 2700 N MacArthur Blvd, Oklahoma City Spring/Easter photo shoot for your fur kid and family! Enjoy a food truck, professional photograph, hospital tours and free goodies to take home. There is a suggested $10 donation that will benefit Pet Food Pantry of OKC.

Open Streets OKC Sunday, April 8, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

NW 23rd Street from Robinson to Western, and North on Walker to the Paseo District, Oklahoma City

Heard on Hurd

This alcohol and tobacco free event offers tons of fun activities, food, and music. Your leashed canine companion is welcome to attend.

Saturday, March 17, 6 – 10 p.m.

Dog-n-Jog Fun Run

Downtown Edmond A food truck and music festival in beautiful downtown Edmond. Fun for the entire family! Leashed, friendly dogs are welcome, but make sure your dog is comfortable in large crowds.

April OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences Open House

Saturday, April 21, 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Mitch Park, 2901 Marilyn Williams Dr., Edmond Three Dog Bakery is hosting a fun run for you and your pooch to raise money to improve the Edmond dog park! Goodie bag and t-shirt are included when you register by April 12.

Bad To The Bone Dog Show

Saturday, April 7 at 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Saturday, April 21, 10 a.m.

OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, 205 McElroy Hall, Stillwater

Canine Sports Academy, Norman

Learn more about the OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences and the veterinary profession! Live animal demos, tour the Veterinary Medical Hospital, participate in Teddy Bear Surgery, and more.

Tornado Alley Bulldog Rescue is hosting their first annual Bad To The Bone Dog Show! Enter your pup to compete several fun categories! Prizes for each category and Best in Show. Proceeds benefit TABR. Register through the event on their Facebook.

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March/April 2018 • 5

TABLE OF CONTENTS 8 We Asked

What is your dog’s silliest habit?

11 Apps for Modern Dog Parents

REGULAR FEATURES 4

Publisher’s Letter

Our former cover dog, Finch, and his

18 Wag & Brag

dad, Brent, give us the skinny on some

29 Local Resource Guide

great apps for dog parents.

12 Rescue Feature

We had the opportunity to visit with Stephanie Scheiern, Founder and Treasurer of All Paws Rescue, about the wonderful work they are doing for furry friends in our area.

14 Dinner is Served

Five healthy foods to add to your dog’s bowl.

16 Reunited and It Feels So Good

The story of a local dog’s miraculous return home.

22 The Power of Praise

Barkley University shares why positive reinforcement style training works.

24 What You Need to Know About Parvo

Local vet, Dr. Zac Coldiron, shares invaluable information on how to protect your pooch from Parvovirus.

26 Dog’s Day Out

We dish on one of the metro’s best dog-friendly shops.

30 Molly’s Munchies

Molly shares a tasty, no-bake treat recipe!

6 • The Dog Dish Magazine

By Appointment Only

405-696-9420

2000 W Danforth, Suite 140 • Edmond, OK 73003

About Our Cover Jack, a dashing five-year-old German Shepherd, lives with his parents and human sister in Edmond. He loves being outdoors, snuggling his family, a good game of frisbee, and smooching his baby sister, Annie.

Each afternoon, Jack insists on having a dental chew and also loves a nice spoonful of peanut butter when he can sweet talk his parents into it! His mom says Jack, who’s full name is Captain Jack Sparrow, has a scary bark but is actually the biggest scaredy-cat and is terrified of the washing machine. Jack is a lover of fun and is convinced that all visitors to his home are there for the sole purpose of being his playmate! We want to thank Caitlin Boswell of CaitPhoto for our gorgeous cover photo.

March/April 2018 • 7

We Asked…

What is your dog’s silliest habit? s

JoyBugg has a toy hoarding problem... she loves snowballs! – Julie Winnie likes to do what we call fluffin! She rolls her head all over crazy hairs! She does it almost

s

the couch or the bed and get the daily! – Rachel

s

8 • The Dog Dish Magazine

Millie aka The Beast, will knock on the door to go outside and as soon as you get up to let her out, she runs and steals the spot where you were sitting. Smart and crafty! – Julie

s

Kai wants us to hold his chew bone while he chews it. When he’s ready for the other side he will nose your hand and make you flip it!

– Cassie

s

s

Shadow loves to ride on the very front of the kayak, although there is space for him to sit or lie down inside of it. He loves the adventure! – Karen

Abby will do anything to get to the seat you’ve been sitting in, including barking at you to let her outside, bringing you a toy to play with, or just generally pouting. The moment you stand up, she is in your spot. – Beth

s

Roxy rides between me and the seat and me every chance she gets. If I move forward even just a little bit, she wiggles her way in that space immediately. – Monica

Riggs uses Lincoln as a security blanket. He can’t sleep without holding Lincoln’s skin s and fur in his mouth! Lincoln smiles dramatically when you pet him. He acts like he’s never been petted before! – Michelle s

s

s

the couch like a weirdo! – Kalie

Kona likes to sleep on the top of piles s of pillows or blankets and Kahlua likes to sleep in unladylike positions! – Rebekah s

Eli’s face you get when you don’t throw the ball fast enough! – Ashlea

He likes to sleep on s

My bird dog, Tiger, loves hanging out with our chickens and doesn’t like sharing his bones with his brother Rocky! – Vesna

March/April 2018 • 9

s

The world is Stitch’s seat... even when it’s my face! – Sara

s

I love how king always sits in his favorite old man chair and he always has his tongue stuck out. – Stephanie

s

s

As soon as my guy hears any water running, he darts to the bath tub! – Ashley

Sleep stretches! – Glendy s

Arson always smiles! – Deanna

s

Molly is the biggest foodie you’ll ever meet and Bosworth loves to drink from the faucet outside! – s Katie s

Parker’s game face! – Kathy

Milli likes to play in the mud! -Joan 10 • The Dog Dish Magazine

s

s

Apps For Modern Dog Parents Written By Brent and Finch Pedersen

Our friend Finch and his dad, Brent, reviewed a few cool apps for dog parents in the technological age and gave us the skinny on their pros and cons.

BarkCam

BringFido

BarkCam is an app intended for the tech savvy pet parent who frequently snaps photos of their pooch for social media and wants that perfect #instagramworthy pic.

BringFido is designed to help pawrents looking for restaurants, entertainment and dog-friendly lodging in their home city, or on the road.

Pros The app has 15 different sound effects designed to attract the attention of your pup. While some respond to a squeaky toy, others may respond better to the sound of a food wrapper or door bell.

Cons While the variety of sound effects are nice, the length of the sounds didn’t seem long enough to capture the attention of all dogs. And while the concept of using sound to grab your dog’s attention is great, we all know that if your fur baby just isn’t in the mood to pose, no sound effect is going to do the trick.

iKibble Free

iKibble Free is an app to answer the question, “Can dogs eat this?” You can scroll through a list of several food items and quickly learn if it’s a safe snack for your pooch or not.

Pros This is very helpful especially for new pet parents who aren’t sure what foods are safe for their fur baby. It includes a wide variety of foods and within each item, it shows a score of 1-5 bones that represents how good or bad something is for dogs. The higher the number of bones, the better it is for them, and vice versa. iKibble also allows you to save favorites and share your information on different social media platforms.

Cons Remember that these are general guidelines. For specific advice on what foods would make the best, healthiest treat for your dog, double check with your veterinarian.

Pros This would be a great tool for planning a road trip with your dog! It also lists some local, dogfriendly restaurant patios that would be fun to visit with your fur friend as the weather warms up.

Cons BringFido didn’t seem to be up to date with dog-friendly events in the OKC area. Although there were some great local restaurant recommendations, you have to scroll through a lot of listings for fast food restaurants as well.

Pet First Aid by American Red Cross

This is a super handy app by American Red Cross with information about various first aid situations for dogs and cats.

Pros The app addresses quite a few topics like allergic reactions, CPR, poisoning, wound care, eye emergencies, and many more. This is a must for dog parents!

Cons It’s important to remember that Pet First Aid by American Red Cross is not a replacement for professional vet care. The information in this app is great for reference or for administering care in emergency situations but in any serious situation, your dog should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

March/April 2018 • 11

Rescue Highlight:

ALL PAWS

RESCUE We had the opportunity to visit with Stephanie Scheiern, Founder and Treasurer of All Paws Rescue, about the wonderful work they are doing for furry friends in our area. All Paws Rescue was founded in November 2016 by a group of ladies with over 30 years combined experience in animal rescue.

With similar values and passions for pups in need, they teamed up to form All Paws. Stephanie shared with us that although the animals are their primary mission, the human element of pet rescue is also an important piece of their approach to rescue.

12 • The Dog Dish Magazine

Q: Tell us a little about the “typical” dog you take in.

A: Most of our fosters are only able to accommodate smaller dogs (less than 25 pounds). As for breeds, we have some folks in our ranks who love Chihuahuas and Dachshunds, but we generally also seem to have a soft spot for those miscellaneous scruffs who so easily capture our hearts.

We do have a few fosters for larger-breed dogs, and we take them whenever possible; however, it’s one of our goals to be mindful of what we can and cannot undertake, as to not overwhelm or burnout our people.

When we take a dog, we like to know that we have a backup in case that particular dog doesn’t fit with the foster family or something happens in the foster’s life and they need to take a step back. With larger dogs, we have fewer fosters available, which means that we might not always have a backup, so we aren’t able to commit to them as often.

Q: Describe your adoption process.

A: There is an application that is available online or during our events. It covers the basic questions about care, and serves as a starting point to conversations with adopters to make sure that their home is the best fit for that animal and vice versa.

Most of the time we do on-site adoptions, unless the needs of a specific animal require a home visit.

Q: Tell us a about the other animals you rescue, aside from dogs.

A: Cats top the list of course, but also small critters, which sets us apart from many rescues. One of the reasons we selected our name is because we also wanted to advocate for other types of animals. The amount of exotic or “pocket pets” that are left in shelters or surrendered by their owners is overwhelming!

Unfortunately, few rescues have the resources or knowledge to help with them. We saw that need, and we are grateful to have several volunteers who are passionate about those animals. We help guinea pigs, rabbits, chinchillas, ferrets, hamsters, rats, small birds and once even a hermit crab! If we have a foster and the resources for an animal, we will always help when we can.

Q: You mentioned that the human element of rescue was important to you.

Tell us more about that!

A: We strive for our fosters to feel valued and have opportunities to expand their experiences. We want our donors to know we appreciate and depend on them; we want our partner groups to know we value them, and we want our adopters to engage with us during their adoption experience and beyond. Our rescue is ultimately about the animals, but so much of that depends on the experience people

have with us. We’re not perfect; we make mistakes, but we try to be mindful of how to best approach each situation with pets AND their people.

Q: What would you say is your greatest need right now?

A: We took in two very pregnant dogs from Oklahoma City Animal Welfare in January. They had a combined total of 21 babies, so we could definitely use puppy pads and puppy food. One of our favorite foods is Nutrisource. We are 100% volunteer-run and funded by donations. The people who represent us do so outside of their career, family and other obligations.

Q: What is one thing you’d like people to know about the mission of animal rescue or how to aid in it?

A: There are so many moving parts to this mission, and so many angles to consider. We’d love to see more Oklahomans “stand up” for animal rights, by working to end irresponsible breeding, a huge issue in our state, through routine spaying and neutering. We’d also encourage them to “think adoption first” and support our local shelters and rescues by donating time, money or even just social media support. We always can use more advocates for rescue, and even small efforts can make a huge difference.

We want to thank Stephanie for taking the time to visit with us and for all she and her team are doing for fur kids! If it’s not the right time for you to foster or adopt, we encourage you to consider a gift of your time, or a donation of supplies or assistance with veterinary bills. If you’d like more information about All Paws or want to get involved, email info@allpawsrescueok.org or call 405-757-4604.

March/April 2018 • 13

Dinner is Served

Five Foods to Add to Your Dog’s Written by Kelsey Warren-Bryant

Eggs for protein Eggs are packed with protein to help your dog stay strong! Just add a scrambled egg without added salts or spices to her bowl. If you don’t have eggs on hand, peanut butter is also a great protein-packed snack for your dog; just avoid using peanut butter with added salts, and do not give her any peanut butter containing xylitol.

Green beans for antioxidants Green beans, and many other vegetables for that matter, provide bounties of antioxidants for your pooch. Try adding a few raw or lightly steamed green beans to his bowl for an antioxidant boost. Apples are great, too!

Just cut the apple into slices and remove all seeds before dropping them into her bowl.

We do our best to feed our canine companions a quality diet, but not all dog foods are created equal. Some brands contain excessive grains or fillers to substitute for more costly meats and vegetables. This leaves less room in the kibble for protein, vitamins, and healthy fats. So how do you make sure your dog has a balanced diet? One option is to supplement with healthy additions. Here are some foods you can add to Fido’s food bowl on a regular basis that pack a health punch.

14 • The Dog Dish Magazine

Plain yogurt for digestion Does your pup have stomach problems? Plain yogurt with zero added sugars can ease her tummy!

Pumpkin for fiber Pumpkin is a great source of fiber and vitamin A for your dog. Canned or cooked pumpkin with no added sugars or spices is the way to go. Make sure not to mistake a can of pumpkin pie filling for plain pumpkin. Oatmeal also provides a great source of fiber for dogs.

Coconut oil for a healthy coat There are several sources of omega-6 fatty acids that can help your dog maintain a smooth, healthy coat. A teaspoon of coconut oil per day on top of her food can meet her daily need for omega-6. A daily teaspoon of salmon oil is another great option for essential fatty acids.

My Furry Friend

ART CONTEST

Thank you to all for the beautiful art submissions.

We enjoyed seeing all the kiddos and their pups and it was so hard to choose just one. They are all winners in our eyes!

And the winner is...

Abigail Goodwin and her dachshund, Molly!

Show us a picture of your fur baby and get $50 off Botox!

Your consultation is FREE!

For every picture shown, we will also donate $50 back to Heartland Lab Rescue!

8106 North May Ave. Suite B • Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73120

405-810-8448

www.bajajplasticsurgery.com

March/April 2018 • 15

Reunited and It Feels So Good Written by Katie Munda

In December 2015, Bridget was found roaming the parking lot at Scott Sabolich Prosthetics and Research and won the heart of prosthetist and army veteran, Geoff Hoffman. She was eventually taken to the Central Oklahoma Humane Society but not long after, Geoff knew it was the right time to welcome a fur kid into his life and decided to adopt sweet Bridget.

16 • The Dog Dish Magazine

Geoff left for work on the morning of December 20, 2017 just like any other day. He remembers laughing at how funny and cute Bridget was running happily around the house as he left. He had no idea he would come home that evening to one of his worst nightmares. When he arrived home, Geoff says he noticed his front gate and door were wide open and he instantly feared his best friend was gone. He ran inside calling for Bridget but she was no where to be found. No other items in the home had been taken or damaged, which lead Geoff and many others to believe someone had entered his home with the intention of taking Bridget.

Immediately Geoff began posting on social media and community apps, and the news of Bridget’s abduction spread like wildfire. Posters and fliers were put up around the area and local news stations aired her story; Geoff began getting several calls about protentional sightings, but all lead to dead ends. Geoff says he is incredibly grateful to his employer, Scott Sabolich, for allowing him to take time off work so he could devote his full attention to finding Bridget. For the next few days, Geoff searched day and night with no luck. Early Christmas eve morning, Geoff ’s girlfriend was too worried to sleep and felt compelled to drive around looking for Bridget. Geoff got the greatest Christmas gift of his life that morning; his girlfriend had found Bridget curled up on the side of the road under some bushes!

She was freezing and injured, but she was found and that’s what mattered most.

Geoff recalls seeing Bridget when he arrived at the emergency vet: “She was in bad shape. She looked bad. Her leg had been cut up; her eyes were beet red and she could hardly open them. She had all

these wounds all over her head; it was like her spirit was just gone.” Bridget’s veterinarian believes that her wounds were inflicted intentionally, possibly with the intent to use her for dog fighting.

It is speculated that because of all the media attention Bridget was getting, her abductor dumped her to avoid being seen with her.

The news of her homecoming garnered lots of local and even national attention! Bridget and Geoff ’s reunion was covered by online media outlets like Yahoo

News, Fox News, and People Magazine.

She is doing great and is back to her old, happy, fun-loving self, but Geoff says it took several weeks for her spirit to re-emerge. Cuddling her loved ones and meeting all the dogs and people at the dog park are her favorite pastimes. Geoff says she loves everybody she meets. On the day of her interview, Bridget welcomed us into her home with a happy smile, feisty tail wags, and lots of kisses. Even after everything she’s been through, her sweet, gentle spirit has not been broken.

March/April 2018 • 17

Abby

Baily

Baka & Willow Bosworth Budders & Lucy

Bently & Zoe Cali

Casaer

Calvin Cassi & Vega

Cooper

Chablis & Coton de Tulear 18 • The Dog Dish Magazine

Dac

Dutch

Jax, Halo, Daisy & Violet

Eddie

Dizzie

Josie Moki

Harvey Dent

K-Barr Kahlua & Kona Koffee Bean

Keona Kai Patrick

Lilly Ember March/April 2018 • 19

Logan Lyla Mae

Marvin Maverick

Molly

Pepper

Paisley

Poogie

Russ 20 • The Dog Dish Magazine

Molly

Remington

Parker

Sammy

Sam Shawn

Thor

Tink

Spencer Willow

Trapper Zeus

Toby

Vonny

Zoey

Think you have the cutest dog?

Brag about it!

Email us a high-resolution photo of your pooch and his/her name to photos@thedogdishok.com. Your photo may appear in the next issue of the magazine!

March/April 2018 • 21

The Power of Praise: Why Positivity Works for Your Pup

By Michelle Van Swearingen, Certified Trainer, Barkley University

When it comes to dog training, the options can be overwhelming.

From choosing between a harness or collar to deciding whether to take classes or simply watch training videos online… it can be difficult to determine the best plan for you and your pup.

But, if you want your training to be successful and help strengthen the bond between you and your dog, it’s important to use only positive reinforcement training techniques and products.

22 • The Dog Dish Magazine

So, what exactly is positive reinforcement training? A common misconception about positive reinforcement training is that it’s simply just training that’s positive and fun for your dog. While that’s partially true, positive reinforcement training actually refers to operant conditioning and the way we respond to our dogs’ behaviors. When you add (positive) a reward (reinforcement) to encourage a dog to continue or repeat a certain behavior, you implement positive reinforcement training. On the other hand, the addition (positive) or removal (negative) of a punishment tends to be much less effective in domestic animal training. Using punishments to train dogs increases fear and anxiety, which often leads to aggression and can diminish your dog’s trust in you. Punishments include painful or irritating collars (including prong, pinch, choke, shock and martingale collars), hitting, yelling, scolding, scaring and even offering something that tastes bad to your dog.

When we use rewards to train animals we help them build confidence, trust people, and learn lots of tricks that can be fun, practical and applicable in real world. Rewards do not always have to be in the form of treats Although, using treats sure does help keep their attention when learning something new! Rewards can also include play time with a toy, verbal praise, belly rubs and anything safe that your dog enjoys. The best part of positive reinforcement methods is that they are much more effective and long lasting than training methods that include punishments.

The basic premise of positive reinforcement training is that our dogs are rewarded for correct behavior. And while that seems simple enough, it can be very difficult to understand what’s rewarding to your unique dog. People often reinforce unwanted doggy behavior by unknowingly rewarding it with something their dog enjoys. For example, most dogs who jump on people have been repeatedly rewarded for jumping on people. When a dog jumps on you he wants your attention, he wants you to touch him and he wants you to talk to him. So, when you push him off of you and say “No, get down!”, you’re touching him, talking to him and therefor rewarding him. If you pet him or scratch his ears when he jumps on you, you’re basically telling him you want him to continue to jump on you and to jump on anyone else he sees in order to get as much attention as possible.

Going to positive reinforcement dog training classes with a certified dog trainer is the best way to ensure you’re using positive reinforcement techniques correctly. While there is a lot of great information on the internet, there is nothing like having a professional observe and coach you and your dog simultaneously.

Going it alone can lead to detrimental misinterpretation or misinformation, which could hinder your dog’s training progress.

Furthermore, each and every dog has a unique personality.

The fun quirks that make our To help you find the perfect positive reinforcement dog trainer, we’ve compiled a list of questions to ask before you register for classes.

1.) What kinds of rewards do you offer dogs in your classes? (Tip: A great answer would be that they use a variety of rewards that are specifically motivating to your dog).

dogs special can often be explained by an experienced trainer.

The best time to start training with a professional is the week you introduce your dog to your home. Starting training early-on will help you get off to a fantastic start with your dog. Teaching your dog new things from the beginning will help your dog come to trust and respect you.

Dogs can start training as very young puppies, though you should ensure your dog has had all necessary vaccinations before taking her to a dog training facility.

Talk to your vet and your trainer to before beginning classes to ensure you’ve met all of their requirements. If you’ve adopted an older dog, the same rules apply. Old dogs absolutely can learn new tricks, and it’s very possible they’ll be in desperate need of friendly leadership and companionship, both of which can be accomplished with a good dog trainer. Even if you’ve had your dog for a long time, positive reinforcement training can still be beneficial. It may take longer to unlearn old habits, but it’s never too late

2.) Do you ever use punishments to train dogs? If so, what kinds of punishments and why?

3.) Do you ever require that dogs use choke, pinch, prong, shock or martingale collars in your classes?

4.) Have you ever had to kick a dog out of class, and if so what were the circumstances?

5.) What would you do if a dog was aggressive during a group class?

6.) Are you capable of administering pet first aid or CPR in case of an emergency?

7.) Do you offer classes that fit my schedule? (Tip: if you have trouble sticking with a consistent schedule, your dog’s training may suffer) 8.) What vaccinations are required for my dog to attend class?

A good dog training facility will implement the following three fundamental components of positive reinforcement practices: Reward-Based: Dogs receive rewards when they do something correct. Treats

and affection are included and used as tools to teach new behaviors.

Voluntary:

Dogs participate willingly in training and are not physically manipulated to perform.

Entertraining: Training is fun for all involved!

Remember, there is no quick fix for training any dog of any age. The earlier you get started with positive reinforcement training, the better off you and your dog will be.

Training should continue throughout your dog’s life to encourage physical and mental stimulation and to continue to build the priceless bond between you and your best pal.

March/April 2018 • 23

What You Need to Know About Parvo

Written by Dr. Zac Coldiron, DVM, Stoneridge Animal Hospital

As the weather warms up our pets tend to spend more time outside or about town with us. As responsible dog parents we must do our best to provide a safe environment for our dogs. Ensuring your pup is current on vaccines is important this time of the year. Especially since some viruses, like parvovirus, tend to be more common in the warm, wet months.

Parvovirus is a virus that is species-specific to dogs, meaning it doesn’t spread between animals of different species.

Newborn puppies receive protection from their mother in the form of antibodies against viruses like parvo.

Very young pups cannot be adequately vaccinated because the antibodies from the mother easily override a vaccine’s ability to offer protection. Over time these antibodies begin to fade, leaving the puppy susceptible to dangerous viruses that can infect the immune system, resulting in illness and even death. Between the ages of approximately 8 and 20 weeks, known as the “window period,” your veterinarian will recommend a series of vaccinations to protect against illnesses, like parvovirus.

If you adopt an adult dog, the same rules apply; since you don’t know whether or not he received them as a puppy, make sure he gets the necessary series of vaccinations to protect him. Making 24 • The Dog Dish Magazine

sure that your dog or puppy is properly protected is one of the most important steps as a dog parent.

Parvovirus, like other viruses, is easily spread between unprotected dogs. The primary method of spread is via the fecal-oral route.

It can be as simple as a dog licking her feet after walking through an area where parvo infected feces was once present. It is important to remember that this virus can remain active in the

environment for long periods of time, and even more so when the weather is warm and wet. Signs of parvovirus include but aren’t limited to: lethargy, loss of appetite,

fever, shaking/trembling, uncontrolled vomiting and foul-smelling diarrhea that often contains large amounts of blood.

As an intestinal virus, parvo attacks the inner lining of the intestinal tract, resulting in the death of this lining, which causes extensive bleeding, malnutrition, dehydration and sepsis (infection of the blood stream). Unfortunately, there is a

significant risk of fatality, mainly due to the resulting dehydration and sepsis.

Treatment by your veterinarian is imperative if your dog is to have a good chance of surviving.

Your veterinarian can attempt to correct dehydration by giving fluids, prevent sepsis by giving antibiotics, and protect the surviving gastrointestinal tract by resting the entire system and giving protectant drugs. Prompt recognition and treatment of the disease is vital. If you suspect your

dog has acquired this virus, seek veterinary treatment immediately.

Avoiding places where large numbers of dogs congregate is also a smart move. As much as you may enjoy taking your dog to the dog park to play, it’s not without risk, especially for younger dogs that may not have a fully developed immune response. Dog parents should use caution at dog parks, parks with trails where people walk with their dogs, dog kennels, doggie daycares, grooming salons, areas where multiple pets may relieve themselves (such as certain pet elimination areas at apartments or other types of multi-family housing), pet stores where pets are welcome and even veterinary hospitals.

The most important thing to remember as a pet owner is that preventing parvovirus is easy and effective; there is no reason your dog should have to experience parvovirus infection. Take proper precautions, vaccinate your dog per your veterinarian’s recommendations and seek immediate medical care if you ever suspect that your dog has acquired this serious virus. Waiting to see if your dog will improve on his own could be the difference between life or death.

March/April 2018 • 25

DOG’S DAY OUT:

The Dish on the Best Dog-Friendly Shops in the Metro Plenty Mercantile

Photos by Plenty Mercantile

26 • The Dog Dish Magazine

The folks at Plenty Mercantile LOVE pups and welcome your fur friend to shop with you! Plenty has plenty of fun and unique items for two-legged and fourlegged shoppers. They offer responsibly sourced life and style goods that are either local, USA made, handmade, recycled, organic, fair trade, or that give back to a worthy cause. You’ll find something perfect for all your friends and family at Plenty Mercantile. They stock a wide variety of items such as bath and body products, books and office accessories, jewelry and bags, kitchenware and tabletop goods, children’s items, and last but certainly not least, accessories for our canine companions! They even offer gift wrapping to make your shopping trip super easy.

second store front in Edmond at Spring Creek Plaza. Both locations are dogfriendly and boast a rotating curation of responsibly sourced goodies. Plenty Mercantile has been known to host doggy dress-up contests and pooch parties on their rooftop and say they’re looking forward to more opportunities to meet the Metro’s furry friends.

Some of the shopkeepers bring their own pups to work with them. Needle, who’s described as almost magical, comes to the shop on weekends and was born to be a shop dog! Her flowing white hair and sweet spirt bring a smile to shopper’s faces.

Spec, a Great Dane, also comes to work with his mom and is a true gentle giant.

We asked Plenty about fur kids visiting the shop and they told us, “We love our fourlegged customers and are ready to offer fresh water and a little treat should they be interested! We do ask that all visiting pups remain on short leashes and we trust the owners to decide if the shop is an environment where our shoppers and their dog will be comfortable and safe.”

The sweet shopkeepers at Plenty Mercantile would love to meet you and your dog. Stop in and tell them The Dog Dish sent you!

The downtown location is the home of the original OKC Chevrolet dealership. Plenty converted the space that had functioned as the body shop into their beautiful storefront and an indoor warehouse venue. They also have a gorgeous rooftop terrace. The warehouse space as well as the rooftop terrace are available for rent for events. This would make a really lovely and unique wedding venue! You can find more information about their event space on their website, www.plentymercantile.com. They have a

You’re Invited!

Dog Day Afternoon in Memory of Maureen McMullen Rodriguez April 25, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Oklahoma SkinCare 11011 Hefner Pointe Dr. Suite A

Dr. McMullen and Oklahoma SkinCare invite you to join them for a celebration of the life of Maureen McMullen Rodriguez, an avid dog lover and rescuer. Enjoy live music, BlueJ’s Rollin’ Grill food truck, adoptable fur kids, and raffle prizes. New adopters will receive a free ID tag for their new pooch, courtesy of Good Dogma, and a free meal that evening from BlueJ’s Rollin Grill. See you there!

March/April 2018 • 27

28 • The Dog Dish Magazine

LOCAL RESOURCE GUIDE Your guide to the best dog groomers, veterinarians, doggie daycares, boarding facilities, and more in the Oklahoma City metro area.

Dog Sitting/Dog Walking Deep Deuce Dog Walker 405-757-9497 www.thedeepdeucedogwalker.com

Savvy Pet Sitter 405-219-0011 www.savvypetsitter.com

Welcome Home Pet Care 405-657-8085 www.welcomehomepetcare.com

Veterinarians Midtown Vets Oklahoma City 405-606-4477 www.midtownvets.com

Neel Veterinary Hospital Oklahoma City 405-947-8387 www.neelvet.com

Woodlake Animal Hospital Oklahoma City 405-721-6604 www.facebook.com/ woodlakeanimalhospital

Professional Trainers Full Circle Obedience Oklahoma City 405-721-7829 www.fullcircleobedienceschool.com

Barkley University

ROC Animal Training & Behavior 405-201-3806 www.rocanimaltraining.com

Retail All Fur Paws Edmond 405-348-6888 www.allfurpawsok.com

BONE Dog Boutique & Self-Service Dog Wash Oklahoma City 405-600-3460 www.facebook.com/Boneokc

Three Dog Bakery Edmond 405-697-2868 www.facebook.com/ ThreeDogBakeryOK

Specialty Services OKC Pet Waste 405-822-3772 www.okcpetwaste.com www.facebook.com/okcpetwaste

Precious Pets Cemetery Spencer 405-771-5510 www.preciouspetscemetery.com

Friends of Fido Bajaj Plastic Surgery Oklahoma City 405-810-8448 www.bajajplasticsurgery.com

Courtni Daily, Mortgage Loan Originator 405-239-0915 www.facebook.com/ LoanOfficerCourtni

DentalWorks by Edwina V Johnson Oklahoma City 405-557-1245 www.evjdentalworks.com

Nancy V Lynn, Realtor with Metro Brokers of Oklahoma 405-831-6964 www.facebook.com/nancyvlynn

Earthborn Holistic Foods (Made in Oklahoma) www.earthbornholisticpetfood.com

Grooming Pawsh Edmond 405-696-9420

Woof Works Pet Concierge 405-300-0411 www.petconciergeok.wordpress.com

Oklahoma City 405-652-9843 www.barkleyuniversityokc.com

March/April 2018 • 29

Hello, fur friends! It’s me, Molly! Mom’s been busy lately so she asked me if it would be okay if we made a super quick recipe to share with you this time. I gave her the green light because I’m a lover of snacks and the quicker we make it, the quicker I get to taste test it! Mom loves this recipe because it calls for ingredients we always have on hand. You can make these big or small, depending on the size pup you are! I was hoping the big ones were for me and the small ones were for Bosworth but alas, mom let him have all the big ones. I give this recipe my lick of approval and I think you will too!

Molly’s No Bake Cookie Balls

Mix peanut butter, 2-3 tablespoons water, and cinnamon (if using) in medium size bowl until well combined.

Stir in oats and mix well. Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, as needed.

Roll into balls and refrigerate a couple of hours before serving.

Store in the refrigerator for one week, or the freezer for up to one month.

30 • The Dog Dish Magazine

■

¾ cup peanut butter

■

¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

■

2-5 tablespoons water

■

1 ¼ cup quick cooking oats

March/April 2018 • 31

Largest Selection of Urn’s and Keepsake Mementos in the State.

Family Owned and Operated since 1985.

The Only Pet Cemetery in Oklahoma That is a Member of the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories.

With 2 Locations, You’re Never Too Far Away From Your Beloved Pet.

Precious Pets Cemetery Spencer, OK PH: 405.771.5510

Pet Memorial Gardens Norman, OK PH: 405.387.5737 March/April 2018 • 32