Volume 2 T Issue 2
Complimentary
LOVE KNOWS NO AGE
The Grey Muzzle Organization Shares Its Mission
THINK LIKE A DOG
Inside Duke’s Canine Cognition Center
Molly's Mom Makes her a star No Dessert for you! Coping with Picky Eaters
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The Triangle Dog
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PUBLISHER'S NOTE
Brehmer Barks Happy Birthday! Or maybe I need to say Happy Anniversary. April 2012 is our oneyear anniversary and we are so happy to be celebrating this with all of you. In honor of our anniversary, we celebrated at Lap it Up, a new dog pool and recreation center in Durham, NC, with all of our partners who have made the last year possible. Read up on Lap it Up and see our celebration in this issue. In addition to celebrating our first year, we are honoring aging dogs in this issue. Our features focus on such topics as caring for grey-muzzled dogs, introducing a new dog to an old one, and dealing with the loss of your beloved pet. Finally, as we approach spring, find out how to help your pet cope with loud noises in Safety 101 and learn about playing with your dog by joining Drill Team in Dogs @ Play. As we move into our second year, we want to again thank all of you for your continued support. We are thrilled to continue this journey with all of our fellow dog lovers in the Triangle, and want to hear from you so we can partner in creating a better life for your dog. To a 2012 that is even better than 2011, Chuck & Angie Brehmer (and Morrie, Millie, Elsie, and Cindy Lu) Publishers/Editor-in-Chief
Editor’s Note: There were a few errors in our last issue, Winter 2012, which we would like to address. First, in our feature article “To Spay or Not to Spay – It’s not really a Question,” we stated that nearly 20,000 animals are euthanized yearly. However, the correct figure is 200,000. That is, “…here in North Carolina where close to 200,000 shelter animals are euthanized yearly….” Due to the DRASTIC difference in numbers, we wanted to make sure all of our readers are aware of this regretful oversight. Second, in our Natural Dog article on Laser Therapy, the following clarification is necessary: “In this supercharged state, the cell has more energy available to activate a number of processes including an increase in blood flow to affected areas, the release of endorphins, an activation of the body’s own antiinflammatory cascades, and a decrease in pain-related nerve signals.” We do apologize and thank the readers who brought both of these errors to our attention.
u L y d n i C
Millie Morrie 4 Volume 2 • Issue 2
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Elsie
Table of contents Volume 2 • Issue 2 Departments: 4 Publisher's Note 5 Table of Contents 6 Masthead 8 Contributors 24 Ask the Groomer 27 The T-Dog ‘Round Town 28 Triangle Happenings 32 Ask the Vet 39 Picture This!
Columns:
Cover Story:
12 Shelter Spotlight:
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Wake County (SPCA)
14 A Diva in Her Golden Years
13 Adoptable Dogs:
by Sean Drummond
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Wake County (SPCA)
17 Nutrition: Picky Pooches 18 Animal Health & Wellness: Stiff Joints Don’t Have to Slow Your Best Friend Down
22 Dogs @ Play: Marching to Their Own Beat 26 Pet Friendly Business: Hounding for Fashion 30 Let’s Party: The Triangle Dog Celebrates Its First Year
34 Natural Dog: Introduction to Veterinary Acupuncture
38 Safety 101: Leery of Loud Noises: Recognizing and Treating Noise Reactivities and Phobias
41 Canine Careers: Becoming a Groomer: One Woman’s Journey
42 Training: Teaching Whistle Recall 46 Tails from the Heart: It’s a Wonderful Life (Now)
Features:
10 Surviving the Loss of Your Best Friend by DeLana Nicole
16 The Odd Couple
by Jennifer Novelli
20 Grey Muzzle Cares for Senior Dogs by Donna S. Elliott
36 Why Can’t My Dog Do Algebra?! by Clare Reece-Glore
40 My Older Dog Seems Confused! by Lisa Farling, DVM
The Triangle Dog
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Founders: Chuck Brehmer and Angela Brehmer
Volume 2 • Issue 2
“Helping You Create a Better Life For Your Dog” Publisher: Chuck Brehmer Editor-in-Chief: Angela Brehmer Editor: Allison Bennett
Distribution Manager: Mary Price Cover Photography: Diane Lewis
Art Director: Michele Sager Advertising Director: Chuck Brehmer
Website Designer/Manager: Michele Sager
Contributing Writers: Allison Bennett Dr. Liz Cotton Dr. Diane Deresienski Sean Drummond
Beth Johnston Dr. Brian Lapham Barbara Long DeLana Nicole
Donna S. Elliott
Jennifer Novelli
Dr. Lisa Farling
Clare Reece-Glore
Matthew Frazier
Patricia Tirrell
Dr. Jennifer J. Goetz
Subscriptions to The Triangle Dog magazine are available online at TheTriangleDog.com
On The Cover: Courtesy of: Details: Cover Photography By:
Molly Rhonda Downum “A Diva In Her Golden Years” Diane Lewis Photography
The Triangle Dog 105 W. Hwy 54, Suite 265 Durham, NC 27713 919-249-8364 (TDOG) info@thetriangledog.com TheTriangleDog.com “Like” us on
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Submissions: Please send all editorial material, advertising material, photos, and correspondence to The Triangle Dog magazine, 105 W. Hwy 54, Suite 265, Durham, NC 27713, or via email at editor@thetriangledog.com We welcome previously unpublished material and color pictures either in transparency or disc form at 300 dpi. We cannot guarantee that either the article or the photos will be used or that they will be returned. We reserve the right to publish all letters received, as well as all Facebook and Twitter posts left at The Triangle Dog sites. Advertising Sales: Send requests to Chuck Brehmer at 919-249-8364 (TDOG) or cbrehmer@thetriangledog.com The Triangle Dog magazine is published 4 times per year. Entire contents are copyright 2012. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means without prior written consent from the publisher. Publication date: April 2012. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, the publisher makes no warrant to the accuracy or reliability of this information. Views expressed by editorial contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher.
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The Triangle Dog
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CONTRIBUTORS 2.
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3.
5.
7.
Photo by Lindsey McDaniel
6. 1. Allison Bennett Originally from Indiana, Allison moved to Fayetteville, NC in 2010 with her husband, her lab/pitt Angel (who’s never met a stranger), and her Walker Coonhound Sophie (who’s afraid of her own shadow). She received her B.A. in English from Purdue University and currently spends her days tutoring students as a Writing Consultant at Methodist University and Fayetteville State University. In her spare time, she enjoys practicing yoga, gardening, and writing.
volunteers with animal welfare causes and strongly supports making low-cost spay and neuter available to low-income families as a means of reducing pet overpopulation and ending the unnecessary euthanasia of pets in shelters. She serves on the board of directors for AnimalKind, a local non-profit dedicated to the spay/neuter cause.
5. Lisa Farling, DVM
Dr. Liz Cotton graduated from NC State College of Veterinary Medicine in 1987. She is the owner of Fuquay Veterinary Hospital in Fuquay-Varina, NC. When she is not practicing veterinary medicine, she enjoys photography and spending time with her daughter and grandson. If you would like to contact Dr. Cotton for more info about the Buddy Fund, she can be reached at 919-5527200 or lizcotton@embarqmail.com.
Dr. Lisa Farling, a 1999 graduate of the NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, once worked as a CPA in the public and private sectors before realizing that her lifelong passion for animals could be channeled into a highly rewarding life as a veterinarian. Dr. Farling’s other interests include gardening, running, lifting weights, and, most importantly, living vicariously through her children, Wyatt and Simone. The four-legged family members include Dot Dot, a chow mix, Odie, a Chihuahua mix, and Omar, a tough cat and veteran of the streets who now enjoys a muchdeserved pampered existence.
3. Sean Drummond
6. Matthew Frazier
Sean Drummond is the stay-at-home parent of three human children and two canine kids. The dogs are both rescues from different organizations. In the midst of childcare and dogcare, he attempts to maintain a freelance writing career. You can read his blog about his adventures in the Triangle with his children at http://besteducateddad.blogspot.com.
Matthew Frazier is a native of Raleigh, NC and has lived in or around Raleigh all his life. He is a graduate of NC State University and, along with his wife Susan, has two English Springer Spaniels, Newton and Stirling. Matt has had dogs virtually all his life, and loves to spend time outdoors walking, camping, and exploring with them.
4. Donna S. Elliott
7. Jennifer J. Goetz, DVM
For 15 years, Donna S. Elliott was blessed to love a little brown dog named Reason, and now she shares her love with her two dogs, Jules and Luna, who continue to teach her how to live with an open heart and a happy tail and to be grateful for every smile. Donna
When Jennifer J. Goetz graduated from NC State College of Veterinary Medicine in 1997, there were two things she knew about the direction for her career and life: she never wanted children and never wanted to open her own veterinary practice.
2. Liz Cotton, DVM
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CONTRIBUTORS 10. 9.
13.
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Photo by Lindsey McDaniel
12. 11.
Today, Dr. Jenn Goetz has a five-year-old child, Celeste, and is the owner of Animal Hospital at Brier Creek. Her life is just one exciting moment after another and she has never been so happy.
8. Brian Lapham, DVM Dr. Brian Lapham received his veterinary degree from the University of Florida in 1999. His true passion lies in preventative care—preventing disease before it can manifest itself as cancer, osteoarthritis, epilepsy, or the like. Outside of the hospital, Dr. Lapham is often occupied with his family, woodworking, home improvements (which never seem to end!) and running. Included in the mix are his menagerie of pets, currently including two cats, Pia and Kitten, and Elizabeth the guinea pig. Dr. Lapham’s daughter is still vying for a puppy— coming soon!
9. Barbara Long Barbara Long has been training dogs since 1987. She owns Paw in Hand Dog Training where she offers classes, private lessons, behavior problem solving, and Day School training. She is a charter member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), past president, and in 2004 was named the APDT Outstanding Trainer of the Year. Committed to humane training for the family companion dog, she volunteers with rescue groups, competes with her own dogs in Rally and Canine Freestyle, and coaches the Paws 4 Ever Drill Team.
11. Jennifer Novelli Jennifer Novelli is from Statesville, NC where the hills roll and people talk slowly. Conversation is one of her most treasured activities, whether on a porch or busy street. She is an editor and copywriter for a health content creation team, and in her spare time does freelance reporting for the Raleigh Public Record and feature writing for The Triangle Dog. She lives in Raleigh, NC with her husband, dog, and two cats.
12. Clare Reece-Glore Clare Reece-Glore is the owner of YAY dog!, a Durham, NC company that provides in-home coaching services for people and their dogs, as well as dog care seminars. Clare holds an M.S. in adult education, and has worked in a veterinary clinic and volunteered with animal rescue organizations for many years. A lifelong equestrian, she brings her knowledge of natural horsemanship techniques to her work with dogs. YAY dog!’s spokesdog, Andy, came from the Animal Protection Society of Durham.
13. Patricia Tirrell
10. DeLana Nicole
Patricia is a life-long animal lover who has been involved with animal rescue and training dogs in the RTP area since 2001. Patricia is the owner of The Confident Dog (www.confident-dog.com) and is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed, Tellington TTouch Companion Animal Practitioner, and Licensed Delta Society Pet Partner Evaluator.
DeLana Nicole is a Freelance Journalist & Creative Writer living in Cary, NC. She holds a B.A. in Written Communications and Journalism. DeLana recently lost her best friend, Kayo, and there is not a day that goes by that she doesn’t remember his love. DeLana is currently hard at work on her first novel.
Patricia lives with her three dogs. One is a retired pet partner, one is a very active pet partner, and one is in training to be a pet partner. Two of her dogs love water sports and have the titles to show it. Patricia also works with animals who are visually impaired and/ or deaf.
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Surviving the Loss of Your Best Friend
by DeLana Nicole
for their dogs and making a decision to end a pet’s life is difficult. Here are a few things to bear in mind that may help you during that painful time: Saying Goodbye Whenever you determine that it is time to say goodbye, identify how you want to say goodbye. Some vets will visit your home and perform the euthanasia there, allowing you to have a burial at home. Other owners prefer to go to their trusted vet. Make it comfortable for both of you, but especially for your dog. Ross said she fed her dog chicken, his favorite treat, right up until the end. Remember, she added, it is the last memory you will have of your dog. Just think of all the joy your dog brings to your life—the friendship, the unconditional love, and the unwavering companionship. A dog, after all, is a part of the family. Now imagine all of that taken away in a moment. Losing your dog is the one thing no pet owner ever wants to think about, but the truth is, at some point we will all face that painful reality. More than likely, an owner will have to make the painful decision to allow a vet to put his or her dog to sleep. Depending on the breed, a dog can live up to16 years of age and sometimes even longer. Regardless of the amount of time we have with our dogs, losing them can be devastating. I know, because I lost my beloved dog, Kayo, in the spring of 2011. His death left a huge, gaping hole in my life and I grieved harder over losing him than I did over the death of my grandmother. “Many people have told me that they felt guilty for grieving harder over the loss of their pet than they did for a relative,” said Gael Ross, licensed clinical social worker and author of the book, A 30 Day Guide to Healing from the Loss of your Pet. Ross explained that although the pain of loss is the same, there are a few differences between losing a person you love and losing a dog you love. “With the death of a person, most people don’t have to choose when, where or how their loved one’s life will end,” Ross noted. But more often than not, owners will have to make that decision 10 Volume 2 • Issue 2
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Ask a friend or family member to be with you for support. My mom flew down from Michigan to stand by my side and I know I wouldn’t have been able to get through it without her support. And as difficult as it is, try not to feel guilty. “Owners need to understand that they are using their head over their heart, knowing they did it out of love,” offered Ross. Put Away Reminders Remind yourself that the worst of it—the death of your best friend—is over. Now is the time for the healing process. Coming home without your dog is going to be tough, so try to make it a little easier. Ross advised that you put all reminders of your dog out of sight, including leashes, dog bowls, collars, toys, and dog food because they are constant reminders of your loss. Believe me, your memories alone can be overwhelming. You can box these items up and place them in a storage closet or ask a friend to keep them. Later on, you can decide if you want to keep or donate them. Give Yourself Space to Grieve Everyone has his or her own way of processing grief, so work through this in your own way—write it out, talk it out, work it out, or cry it out. Find a safe space and allow yourself to cry because there will be plenty of places where it may not be appropriate to cry—at work, in meetings, or in the grocery store. I know because I have cried in all of those places, but there was nothing like the
privacy of my own home. I would crawl in bed and pull the blanket over my head, weeping until my eyes were swollen shut. I wept for hours on my mother’s shoulder and stained my journal with tears that kept hitting the pages. I could barely complete a paragraph without falling apart, but the healing process was in motion. Each time I cried, my tears acted as a salve over the rawness of my pain. At first, I couldn’t mention Kayo’s name without bursting into tears, but slowly I felt a little better, moment-by-moment, day-by-day. The pain finally gave way to sadness and now I just miss Kayo. If your grief is still overwhelming after a few weeks, Ross suggested seeking out a pet loss support group. There are traditional support groups where you can go to meet with others, as well
as online groups, so get help if you need it. Losing a pet can conjure up deep feelings of loneliness and you may need someone who knows just how you feel. Remembering the Good Times In the beginning, I had to force myself to think of the good memories of Kayo—Kayo stealing other dogs' leashes at the dog park or splashing around in the kiddie pool. If you can, try to honor your dog by remembering his or her life instead of the loss. I hold tight to author Byron Katie’s teachings about loss: When you grieve, you are not remembering the loss; you are remembering the love. Moving On Finally, many dog owners have said that opening their heart to another dog helped the healing process; others found joy in making a donation to a local animal shelter or charity in their dog’s name. Your dog may be gone, but the paw prints of their love are forever etched on your heart. Gael J. Ross’s book is available at petlossguide.net or Amazon.com.
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shelter spotlight
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Wake County (SPCA) is a no-kill animal welfare organization striving to create a no-kill community. Every day, the SPCA works to create a more humane community where every adoptable animal has a home. Through innovative initiatives, the dedicated staff and volunteers work to place over 3,000 pets with loving families each year and assist another 13,000 animals through additional life-saving programs. Adoption Program: The SPCA Pet Adoption Center is a state-of-the-art shelter that gives adopters an uplifting and retail-like experience while searching for a new pet. The Adoption Program is designed to match adopters and pets. When adopters first arrive at the SPCA, they are asked to fill out a “Meet Your Match” questionnaire. This questionnaire is designed to measure adopters’ expectations about what they want in a pet. This guide is simply meant to be helpful (and fun!) and will not limit adopters’ options to choose a pet. SPCA Education and Outreach: The Educational and Community Outreach departments work to inform the community about the SPCA’s core mission: To protect, shelter and promote the adoption of homeless animals; to provide education about responsible pet ownership and to reduce pet overpopulation through spay/neuter programs. The SPCA Behavior Program: The SPCA will do whatever it takes to keep a pet in its new home once it is adopted. The Behavior and Training Department at the SPCA strives to support the human/animal bond.
The SPCA has a Pet Behavior Specialist on staff who evaluates the temperaments and personalities of the animals at the adoption center, and uses the “Meet Your Match” program to evaluate and aid in finding the adopter’s perfect match. But the SPCA doesn’t stop there. After a pet is adopted, these services are guaranteed for the life of the pet. These consultations are provided at no charge, although donations to the SPCA are greatly appreciated! Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Surgery: The Saving Lives Spay/Neuter Animal Clinic is located next door to the SPCA’s Pet Adoption Center. This high-volume, high-quality, low-cost spay/neuter clinic is an intense effort to stop the euthanasia of homeless animals in our community and beyond. The Saving Lives Spay/ Neuter Animal Clinic is open to anyone, anywhere, regardless of income or residency. The clinic building and equipment are funded 100% through private donations from a community of people who believe that prevention, not euthanasia, is the community’s answer to pet overpopulation. The SPCA is not funded by any other organization, including the ASPCA which serves New York City. The SPCA Pet Adoption Center and the new Spay/Neuter Clinic receive no tax dollars or government funds. For more information on the SPCA of Wake County visit www.spcawake.org.
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adoptable dogs Photos by Tara Lynn of In Between The Blinks
Lincros olldn 3 yea
ound Basset H dor ra b a L and r mix Retrieve
My name is Lincoln! I’m a low riding, high flying guy who’s always up for an adventure. Daily walks and weekend jaunts on the nature trails are what I’m most looking forward to with my new family. I’m super happy and outgoing, so I’ll be a big hit each time we venture out. Like each and every one of us, I’ll need some help adjusting to my new environment and can’t wait to learn all my good boy manners. Sign me up for obedience classes right away, ok? It’ll be a great place to show off my smarts and get the fine tuning we all require. I hope to have a giant toy box at my new home, too. That way, I’ll be sure to only play with my things and keep my hands (oops, I mean paws) and nose out of your stuff. Tug-a-Jugs, Nylabones, and peanut butter-filled Kongs will be awesome gadgets to ensure I’m always entertained. Snuggling together after our outings each day will definitely be a major highlight for me. Don’t wait too long to meet me; I’m a gem! I’m full grown at 50 lbs.
I thought I heard you say something to the effect of “I’d like a big lapdog”—well here I am! My name’s Zilla, and I would love to be your new companion! I may be a little shy at first, but I warm up fast! I’ve learned to walk on a leash and ride in a car, so I’d love going to the lake and doing other fun outdoor activities with you! Having a fenced yard to explore or someone who would take me hiking would be wonderful. I love, love, love peanut butter and will go crazy over a peanut butter-stuffed Kong. If you stick it in the freezer, that would be even better so I can have a tasty frozen treat! My new home will need to be just for me and my people. Cats are so strange, I can’t help but chase them— it’s just so fun for me! I’m not fond of other canines and need to be the king of the castle. I have so much love to give, you’ll feel like you’ve hit the jackpot when you let me into your home and into your heart. I need lots of positive experiences and need a patient mom or dad who will take their time teaching me how to be a pet. Is this person you? I am full grown and weigh 52 lbs.
Giah
1 year old
ador Black Labr nd Retriever a Terrier mix
Zilla
3 yea
rs old
Amer Staffo ican rd Terrier shire mix
Hey! I’m Giah—I’m the friendly girl who’s here to make your day. I’m very people-oriented and love playing with my human pals. I seem to be a lot more confident when they are nearby—especially if I get a belly rub and tasty dog treats! Sometimes I may get a bit nervous, but in no time flat I’ll come out of my shell and zoom around to show you how happy I am. Keeping up with my training and socialization is a must for a dog like me because of my very active and playful nature. Keep in mind other dogs may take a little while getting used to my exuberant personality. I also don’t really enjoy being alone, so I will need to go home with a family that has plenty of time to spend with me. Tug-o-War is my favorite game of all and if you have the time to teach me other games, I would be the happiest canine ever! So won’t you take a chance on a sweet girl like me? Come meet me today! I currently weigh 45 lbs and I am full grown.
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A diva in her golden years
by Sean Drummond
Photos by Diane Lewis Photography
It may have been a long time coming for 12 year-old Molly, but this diva is finally a cover model thanks to the dedicated bidding of her mother, Rhonda Downum, at last Fall’s SPCA Fur Ball. A spot on the cover of The Triangle Dog magazine was on the block and this Boxer/Rhodesian Ridgeback mix was the winner. Molly’s humble beginnings can be traced back to the day Downum made a visit to the Wake SPCA on New Year’s Eve 1999 to find a companion for her Black Lab, Sadie. After a few rounds of fetch at the Wake facility, Downum decided to take home what she thought was a calm young girl, but after the vet put Molly on a course of antibiotics for kennel cough, Downum soon found out she had a wild child on her hands. After Sadie died, Downum was again in the market for a companion for a mourning Molly. Perry, a full-blooded Rhodesian Ridgeback with a talent for stealth, became Molly’s self-appointed bodyguard, always around and prepared for any danger. When he’s not on guard duty, the nine year-old tends to have an affinity for the couch, according to his mom. She describes him as “regal and quiet” and perhaps a good mattress tester. Perry enjoys cool fall days that tend to rekindle his inner puppy. Like every diva, Molly has had obstacles to overcome. Early onset arthritis hasn’t slowed her down, thanks to the talents of veterinarian and acupuncture practitioner 14 Volume 2 • Issue 2
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Dr. Audra Alley. “Molly came in for an injury to her knee and medications and supplements weren’t enough, so we tried acupuncture and it worked really well,” explained Dr. Alley. Molly now receives acupuncture treatments on both knees and hips every three months, which allow her to keep up her youthful schedule of lying in the sun and asking for belly rubs. Perry has also had his share of health concerns. Last year he was diagnosed with a mast cell tumor—the most common form of canine skin cancer. Luckily, the midgrade tumor was found early and veterinarian Jodi Reed was able to surgically remove it. Perry is still susceptible to this type of tumor, so he is screened for them every six months. Under Perry’s watchful gaze, Molly spends her days digging and barking; squirrel-chasing used to be a hobby in the diva’s younger years. Around evening, Molly prepares for her favorite time of day—when Downum comes home from work—by carefully choosing a toy to hold when excitedly greeting her mother at the door. When asked, Molly can even clean up after herself by retrieving toys from outside and putting them away. But she saves her best trick for Christmas time. Molly is a very efficient present opener. “She holds the present with her feet, pulls the paper with her mouth and spits it out,” her mother explained.
Molly is so good at present opening that Downum can no longer hide presents in the house before Christmas because Molly finds them and opens them. It’s hard to say how her appearance on the cover of The Triangle Dog will affect Molly’s already-full life. Will she become the poster-dog for canine acupuncture or will
she be the canine Betty White, enjoying a new-found popularity in her golden years? Whatever the future holds for this cover dog, she has already come a long way from her shelter days, thanks to the willingness of people like Downum to make the SPCA their first stop when looking for a canine companion.
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The Odd Couple
Boone was eight weeks old when he was adopted by Stephen Bryant and Cari Boyce of Raleigh, NC. A Sheltie, Boone was five-years-old last December 12th and had lost seven pounds after his new brother, Archie, came on the scene a year ago. Also a Sheltie, Archie was delivered by the hand of fate, to hear it told by Bryant. “Out of the blue, on Martin Luther King Jr. weekend, 2011, we got an email from the breeder whom we got Boone from telling us there was one little boy left from a recent litter. Cari had adopted her previous dog, Angie, the same holiday weekend years before, so we felt good about it. Without much hesitation, we said yes and picked him up the next weekend,” recalled Bryant. Angie, a Labrador-Rottweiler-Sheppard mix who passed away recently, was introduced to Boone as the older dog of the home, welcoming a newcomer puppy long before Boone would be asked to carry out the same duty with Archie. Angie had an alpha-dog personality, so the couple was concerned how she would initiate and tolerate the new relationship. “After one spat at the playground, the pair were on the fast track to becoming friends. Angie let Boone jump on her, bite her ears, and practically anything else a Sheltie puppy named Boone was capable of. As a wise, older dog, when Angie had enough, she would gently put him in his place.” Boyce also claimed Angie genuinely enjoyed the companionship of her energetic younger brother, so much that it seemed to extend her life a bit.
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by Jen Novelli
After her passing in March 2010, Bryant and Boyce decided to adopt Archie. Their only regret in the process was the dogs’ initial meeting when Boone was allowed to go with them to pick up Archie for the first time. Perched in the front seat of their Jeep, Boone jumped into the cargo area and turned his back once he saw the new puppy. The new parents relocated Boone to the front seat where he spent the car ride back ignoring Archie as best he could. And, initially, it didn’t change much when they got home. Archie strived for affection from Boone, jumping to bite his ears and play, but Boone was unable to recall his younger years with Angie and just wanted to get away. Bryant and Boyce decided some special treatment was in order, so they took Boone on longer, solo walks and fed him first. Boone was also allowed to go anywhere in the house, while Archie was restricted to certain areas while being potty trained. But when it came to love and affection, the new parents were adamant about giving that out evenly and generously. Today, although little brother Archie still annoys big brother Boone from time to time, their companionship has some obvious payoffs for their parents. For one, before Archie’s arrival, Boone was not the best traveler and would bark at the windshield wipers, forcing Boyce to hold him in her lap and cover his eyes. With Archie in tow, the two sit together in the back seat, mostly quietly, in their harnesses. And on any given day, you could drop in on Bryant and Boyce to find quite an entertaining brotherly wrestling match occurring in any room of the house. W h i l e introducing a new member to an already established family can be trying at times, the pairing of a couple of dogs initially at odds is well worth the companionship in the long run.
nutrition
But Why Is Your Dog So Picky?
by Jennifer J. Goetz, DVM
Typically, cats are thought of as finicky animals. However, dogs can also be fussy at times. Having a finicky eater can be very trying. But, why is my dog picky? Underlying medical diseases may show decreased appetite as the first symptom before other symptoms appear. Animals with decreased appetite often eat only the most palatable foods. A thorough physical examination to check for problems such as pain, fever, masses, dental disease, and heart disease is very important. In addition, blood and urine tests to check kidney and liver function, and to look for anemia and infections, are of critical importance in any pet with finicky taste buds.
chest of the dog. In overweight dogs, pressure is needed to feel ribs. An underweight dog will have visible ribs (although realize that in some breeds, like sighthounds, this is normal). In addition, a fit pet will have a visible “abdominal tuck,” or waist, behind the ribs.
There are certainly causes other than medical conditions that result in finicky eaters. Constant variation of the diet is one common cause. A consistent, high quality diet is best for dogs. Varying flavors, textures, and brands of diet can create picky eaters. An inconsistent diet can result in chronic stomach and intestinal upset and development of preferences. In addition, dogs may have varying preferences on the amount and frequency of feeding. While twice daily feeding works best for most dogs, some dogs prefer once daily feeding, and some dogs eat only every other day. Often, failure of a dog to eat as much food as the owner believes it should is misconstrued as being picky. Just like people, a dog with a full belly will often eat junk food when offered. While the bag of food may have a general guideline for how much to feed, a few dogs need more, and many dogs need less. A better guideline is the dog’s weight, or body condition. To check, just feel for ribs by gently running your fingers over the
What if your dog eats only people food? You can start with the food your dog is used to, mixed with a very small amount of dog food of a similar texture. Gradually, over weeks or months, the percentage of the dog food can be increased. Once your dog is on a dog food, it can be gradually changed to the desired type. Another option is a homemade balanced diet. It is important to realize that a dog’s nutrition requirements are much different from a human’s. Therefore, feeding a diet without carefully balancing it to their needs can be disastrous. Seeking help from a veterinarian nutritionist is very important to ensure a diet that is balanced for protein, carbohydrates, calcium, phosphorus, and micronutrients.
So, if you have a finicky dog, how do you get your dog to eat? Mixing canned food with the normal dry diet is completely acceptable and often can entice picky eaters, making it a good short and long-term solution. Microwaving the food slightly with a little water can also increase the palatability.
Every pet has its own special challenges. It is important to remember that while challenges exist, the soft ears, waggy tail, and warm dog kisses all make it worth the extra effort.
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ANIMAL HEALTH & WELLNESS by Matthew Frazier
Stiff Joints
Don’t Have To Slow Your Best Friend Down Photo by Paul Szalanski
If your dog isn’t as active as he or she used to be, it’s likely not just old age. Osteoarthritis is common in dogs both large and small, and can affect the major joints like the hips, elbows, and knees. Osteoarthritis is a progressive, degenerative disease that can cause pain and discomfort of the joints and seriously affect your dog’s lifestyle- but it doesn’t have to, especially if you catch it early and mitigate risk factors and aggravating conditions. According to Dr. B. Duncan X. Lascelles, an active lifestyle and healthy, responsible diet that maintains good nutrition and controls your dog’s weight are key first steps to preventing and mitigating osteoarthritis. Like other progressive diseases, the symptoms of osteoarthritis can go undetected in the earliest stages and the onset can be slow such that the early effects are often either attributed to old age or simply unnoticed altogether. As the disease worsens, however, your dog 18 Volume 2 • Issue 2
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will likely begin to feel joint pain or discomfort that will limit or hamper its ability to remain active and engaged in the type of lifestyle you are both accustomed to. If you notice your dog is not as active as he or she once was, not able to jump as easily or as much, or shows other signs that activity is more difficult, schedule a visit with your veterinarian. Tell your vet what you’ve been noticing and he or she can evaluate your dog and perform certain tests to determine if your dog is suffering from osteoarthritis. Common treatments for dogs with osteoarthritis generally fall into one of two categories. When the symptoms have a serious effect on the dog’s lifestyle, one method of treatment focuses primarily on pain management. Easing your pet’s pain under this method would provide your dog with the ability to maintain a minimally active lifestyle.
A second method focuses more on slowing disease progression through early detection and prevention, and involves managing the risk factors and aggravating conditions that contribute to the progression of the disease. Dr. Lascelles explained that this course of treatment is most affective when symptoms are detected early, before serious joint pain hampers your pet’s ability to remain comfortably active, and can extend your dog’s active years while also treating the pain.
is Professor of Surgery and Pain Management, Associate Director, CCMTR; Director, Comparative Pain Research Laboratory; and Director, Integrated Pain Management Service with North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC. Photo by Matthew Frazier
Unfortunately, no supplement or surgery has been identified yet that reverses or stops the progression of osteoarthritis. Dietary supplements or foods that include Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to help with the disease, while other supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin may also help. No supplements or diets, however, have been shown to definitively alter disease progression. Supplements or dietary changes alone, while potentially beneficial, should not be expected to cure your dog. While osteoarthritis is more common in larger, older dogs, it is nonetheless common among smaller and younger dogs as well. If your pet shows signs of reduced activity or joint pain, no matter his or her size or age, mention it to your veterinarian at your next visit—early detection and treatment is the most effective way to keep your dog pain-free and able to maintain the active, healthy lifestyle you both want. The author would like to thank Dr. B. Duncan X. Lascelles for his time and willingness to discuss this issue for the purpose of this article during an interview on 30 November 2011. Dr. Lascelles
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grey muzzle cares for senior dogs by Donna S. Elliott
Most of the organization’s costs involve shipping and printing brochures and newsletters, and Grey Muzzle is looking for a printer to donate services to help alleviate those costs.
An old dog is indeed a faithful friend. And shouldn’t all old dogs have faithful friends to care for them? The Grey Muzzle Organization, a Raleigh-based national non-profit group, thinks so and has stepped up on behalf of old dogs everywhere. Grey Muzzle is dedicated to ensuring that “no old dog dies alone and afraid.”
One of the newest opportunities to help that Grey Muzzle has prioritized is education. “We have a really good idea of some of the successful organizations around the country,” Dudley said. “We have an opportunity to get those ideas in front of other organizations. Grey Muzzle is in a unique position to be able to do that.”
Founded in 2008 by Julie Dudley, the mission of Grey Muzzle is to “improve the lives of at-risk senior dogs by providing funding and resources to animal shelters, rescue organizations, sanctuaries, and other non-profit groups nationwide.”
In addition to educating shelters and rescues on how to care for and find homes for senior dogs, Grey Muzzle believes in “…partnership and bonding” with senior dogs. “That’s really what we are trying to promote,” Dudley said.
With 60-70 volunteers nationwide and the sole reliance of private donations, Grey Muzzle funds grants to organizations across the country who care for old dogs. Assisting shelters and rescues with the medical expenses involved in fostering and rehoming abandoned old dogs, connecting senior citizens with senior companion dogs, offering end-of-life medical care so senior dogs can spend their last days with their families and in their homes, and working with Meals on Wheels programs to provide assistance to low-income families with senior dogs are just some of the efforts that Grey Muzzle helps make possible.
Dudley said that when it comes to older dogs, “most people think about only the bad things, and I think that’s why they don’t get adopted.” But, she said the wonder of loving an older dog is that they “kind of know what life is and work hard to fit in and seem to be more peopleoriented than younger dogs and make such great, loyal companions.” Visit www.GreyMuzzle.org to find out how you can help, as well as learn how to care for your senior dog if you are lucky enough to love one.
Grey Muzzle is a completely virtual organization and has no paid employees. Most of the volunteers have never met each other, but as Dudley explained, “all share a soft spot in their hearts for senior dogs.” The organization spends two-thirds of its time fundraising and writes grants twice a year. Grey Muzzle accepts onepage letters of interest once a year and usually selects about half of those to turn into longer grant applications. “It’s really a big job to read through all of those letters of interest,” explained Dudley. “Last year, we received almost 100 letters.” Grants range from $500 to $4,000 and the average grant is $2,000 to $2,500. Grey Muzzle typically brings in about $60,000 a year, and Dudley said that 85-90% of those dollars go right back out in grants. Photos courtesy of The Grey Muzzle Organization
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DOGS @ PLAY by Barbara Long, CPDT-KA
Marching to Their Own Beat In the fall of 1988, six instructors from the Animal Protection Society of Orange County, now Paws 4Ever, decided that the organization should have a presence in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Holiday Parade. It would be a great way to show off well-trained dogs and encourage people to sign up for dog training classes. The first Drill Team of four Shetland Sheepdogs, a Border Collie, a Golden Retriever, and their handlers was a big hit as they performed obedience skills and marched in the parade. The Drill Team has been marching ever since, much to the delight of spectators at the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Parade, the Hillsborough Holiday Parade, and at community fairs and dog events all over the Piedmont. Over the years, they have added fun formations to their repertoire such as the canine version of the “Wave” where their dogs go from a sit, to a down, and then back up into a sit, one after the other. That one is always a crowd pleaser. All of the team’s dogs have been trained with the rewardbased training methods that Paws 4Ever promotes. Spectators can see the dogs’ happiness in the tailwagging way that they perform. They really enjoy the opportunity to strut their stuff and the attention that they get from the audience.
Having had great success with parade appearances, the team decided to branch out to perform choreographed canine freestyle routines to music at demonstrations. One of their most popular routines is to the song “I Will Survive” (as seen at www.youtube.com/watch?v=fvrnXDj8oio) and this fall, the team debuted a new routine to the song “Walking on Broken Glass” (www.youtube.com/ watch?v=_iAS6odMGuk). What does it take to be a Drill Team dog? Dogs should be people and dog friendly and not bothered by noises. No dog is too big or too little. Over the years, the team has had members with dogs from Dachshunds to Great Danes and everything in between! Besides heeling and standard obedience exercises, they train their dogs to do tricks such as spinning and walking backwards so they can use these tricks in the routines and parade formations. The dogs get praise, petting, and treats, so they enjoy practicing the skills. My dog looks forward to our Monday night training sessions with the team and is always excited and ready to work when we come to class. If you think Drill Team is something that you and your dog would enjoy, the team meets every Monday at 7:15 pm at Paws 4Ever in Mebane, NC. Please contact me if you are interested in joining or if you would like our team to perform at your event: Barbaralong815@msn.com
Photos courtesy of Paws 4Ever Drill Team
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ask the groomer
Beth Johnston
Beth Johnston is a life-long animal lover who first groomed the family dog in the driveway at 10 years of age, and has been grooming animals for over 20 years, working with dogs, cats, rabbits, and horses. She has also successfully competed in canine events including conformation, rally obedience, and agility. She was a foster mom for the Central Carolina Poodle Club and helped rehabilitate and place poodles in forever homes. She is a certified member of the National Dog Groomers Association of America, and is certified with the American Red Cross in Canine First Aid and CPR. Beth currently owns, and can be found grooming her canine friends at, Beth’s Barks N Bubbles, LLC in Durham.
Q:
I wonder if there is a natural diet or natural supplement I can give my aging dog to help his teeth? For example, does teeth brushing help? ~Jennifer M., Durham, NC
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A:
Well, just like people, dogs can get dental disease too! And yes, there are things that you can do to help your senior keep dental problems at bay: the most obvious way is to brush the teeth. Many companies make specially formulated toothpaste for pets. And because your pet does not spit out toothpaste as humans do, you must NOT use human toothpaste as it is not edible. Ideally, you should aim for brushing teeth every day to remove the softer plaque that builds up on teeth before it turns to tartar, which needs to be removed by your vet while your pet is under anesthesia. But even brushing a couple times a week is better than nothing at all! Remember, dental disease is uncomfortable for your pet and can lead to infections which can spread to the heart and other vital organs. So that bad breath from your best friend is no laughing matter! Another simple way to help keep teeth healthy is to encourage chewing on appropriate toys and dental chews or to provide dog foods that are designed to promote healthy teeth and gums. All of these items are readily available at your local pet store, veterinarian office, or online supply companies. Now get to work brushing those teeth!
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pet friendly business
Hounding for Fashion
by Mary Gillogly
Come check us out at 8111 Creedmoor Road, Suite 149 in Brennan Station, Raleigh, NC. Follow us on Twitter: @shopcltheshound Like us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ shopclotheshound Shop online: www.shopclotheshound.com
At Clothes Hound boutique in North Raleigh, NC, fashion and dogs go paw in paw. Clothes Hound is a contemporary women’s clothing boutique that opened in June 2011 in the Brennan Station shopping center. Not only can you find clothes, handbags, shoes, and more for under $100, you can also find dog accessories such as dog bows, collars, and toys. Owner Bryce Batts named the boutique Clothes Hound not only for her love of fashion, but also her love of the four-legged kind. Batts, who rescued a lab mix of her own 10 years ago, makes giving back to charities an integral part of her business. In fact, for Clothes Hound’s Grand Opening, 10% of all sales over 3 days were donated to the SPCA of Wake County.
them. One gal in particular, Clothes Hound employee Louise Gibbons, developed a special bond with Jelly. A short time later, Gibbons adopted Jelly as her own. Unfortunately, soon after going home with Gibbons, Jelly fought for her life; she had contracted Parvo before leaving the shelter. Thankfully, with lots of loving care and medications, Jelly is now a healthy, playful pup who bounces around the store while Gibbons is working. In August 2011, Clothes Hound partnered with neighboring Brennan Station businesses Adore Boutiques, Aqua Salon, and Oliver Twist for a MotherDaughter fall fashion show. All proceeds from the admissions and silent auctions went to a local rescue in Chapel Hill called Adoption Option.
Friendly and clean dogs are welcome and a dog-friendly shopping experience makes this boutique different. Upon arrival, customers will find a water bowl and dog bones for their best friend. Employees love meeting your pooch and one of our babies may be there to play, too! Gucci, a Yorkie Poodle, and Jelly, a lab mix, serve as the official Clothes “Hounds.” Both pups are owned by employees of the boutique.
Clothes Hound continues to merge fashion and charitable causes in the name of all canines. While snooping around the store with your furry friend, you can enjoy brands such as Judith March, Gentle Fawn, and Paper Crown by Lauren Conrad. Clothes Hound prides itself on being a store for all ages—16-65. Our products are high quality, affordable, and they appeal to everyone from moms and daughters to grandmothers!
Jelly is a special miracle for Clothes Hound. During the Grand Opening, the SPCA brought two adoptable puppies, Jam and Jelly. We all took turns holding and swooning over these angels, and posing for pictures with
So grab your pooch, pounce on over to Raleigh’s pet friendly fashion hot spot, and wet your noses and fashion whistles with fabulous fashion finds for both owner and dog alike.
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Photos by Tara Lynn of In Between The Blinks
The t-Dog 'round town
Love was a four-legged word this Valentine's at Gourmutt's Bakery in Raleigh. Dogs sat, begged, and did all types of tricks for a free piece of puppy cake! Each dog received a special Valentine and had a chance to try their paws at agility next door.
Ready. Set. Fly! Hundreds of dogs jumped, lept and flew over hurdles at the State Fair Grounds January 21 & 22 for the Flyball tournament. Teams of four dogs raced over hurdles to retreive their tennis ball, and raced back in time for the next dog to take its turn in the relay game. Gloomy wet weather didn't get these dogs down. From pint-sized pups to large labs, these dogs enjoyed showing off their skills and had fun.
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triangle happenings
APRIL Bark Around the Park April 14, 2012, Noon - 4:00 pm The 23rd Annual Bark Around the Park event is scheduled for Saturday April 14, 2012, from 12-4pm. Admission is FREE. We hope you will join us for this very unique and exciting event! Millbrook Exchange Park, Raleigh, NC. Visit www. parks.raleighnc.gov for more information. (Rain date April 15) SPCA K9-3K Dog Walk 2012 April 21, 2012 On Saturday April 21st, the streets of downtown Raleigh will close to make way for the biggest animal event of the year! The walk event is fun for families, individuals, and of course dogs! Join thousands of people like you who care about animals and walk to save lives. By participating in the 2012 Dog Walk, you will play a vital role in our effort to save lives. The SPCA of Wake County is a local, grassroots animal charity; we do not receive any funding from national animal organizations. This makes YOUR participation even more important in rescuing these animals in the greater Raleigh area and surrounding communities in and around Wake County.
Do you have an event you would like us to promote? Please email us at: events@thetriangledog.com Fashion Unchained April 28, 2012, 7:00 pm The Coalition to Unchain Dogs will be hosting the 3rd annual Fashion Unchained event in high style. This stylish soiree will be held at Flanders Gallery in downtown Raleigh. http://unchaindogs.net/ 5th Annual North Carolina Week for the Animals April 28–May 6, 2012 Special events will make North Carolina Week for the Animals successful, enjoyable, and educational for both adults and children. Every event held will help make a difference for the animals. http://www.ncanimals.org/
MAY
www.spcawake.org
Triangle Arthritis Walk 2012 May 5, 2012, 10:00 am
Hillsborough Station Rocks for the Dogs April 21, 2012
Dog walk, live entertainment, and refreshments. Entertainment provided by The Bouncing Bulldogs and The Garner G-Squad. Imperial Center, Durham/RTP, NC.
Beer, Bands and Food at Hillsborough Station. All the proceeds will be split between the Coalition to Unchain Dogs and the Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue League. For more information contact Lisa: pawsatthecorner@centurylink.net Golden Swim & Picnic April 28, 2012, 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Please join us for our 4th Annual Golden Swim and Picnic, where dogs will have a ball and NRGRR will be able to raise much needed funds to support our rescued Goldens. One hundred percent of the proceeds from this event support the medical care and rehabilitation of rescued Goldens. Montague's Pond is located at 10301 Penny Road in Cary, NC between Kildaire Farm Road and Holly Springs. http://www.goldenrescuenc.org
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Registration http://www.TriangleArthritisWalk.org 2nd Annual Pit Bulls In the Park: Fairview Park Community Outreach May 5, 2012, 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm Carolina Care Bullies Presents: 2nd Annual Pit Bulls in the Park. Spay and Neuter Assistance, Rabies Clinic $10, Free Microchips and “Ask The Trainer Booth,” Fairview Park 195 Torain Street Hillsborough, NC. Carolina DockDogs in Wilmington NC May 11–13, 2012 Come and watch the dogs jump or join in the fun with your dog. For more information, visit our website. www.carolinadockdogs.com
JUNE Teamworks Spring Splash Down June 2–4, 2012 One of 3 Dock Diving Events hosted at Teamworks, 195 Robbins Rd Youngsville, NC http://www.dogtrainingraleighnc.net/ Walk for the Animals June 2nd Mark your calendars for 2012 Walk for the Animals on Duke’s East Campus. Around 1,000 people, along with their pooches, are expected to take part in the 1.5-mile walk around Duke.
Take Your Dog to Work Day June 22, 2012 First celebrated in 1999, Take Your Dog to Work Day was created to celebrate the great companions dogs make and to encourage their adoption from humane societies, animal shelters, and breed rescue clubs. This annual event asks pet lovers to celebrate the human-canine bond and promote pet adoption by encouraging their employers to support TYDTWDay by opening their workplace to employees’ fourlegged friends on this one special day. http://www.takeyourdog.com/
http://www.apsofdurham.org/
Golden Rescue Reunion June 23, 2012
A Dog Gone Good Wedding June 2nd
Please join us for our Annual Rescue Reunion, where dogs will have a ball and NRGRR will be able to raise much needed funds to support our rescued Goldens. One hundred percent of the proceeds from this event support the medical care and rehabilitation of rescued Goldens.
Mark your calendars for a doggy wedding. Be sure to keep an eye out on Paws at the Corner’s Facebook page for more details to follow closer to the date. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Paws-at-theCorner/102688629770985?ref=ts
http://www.goldenrescuenc.org
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let's cook
PARTY!
by Chuck and Angela Brehmer
The Triangle Dog Celebrates Its First Year! Ever wanted to throw an indoor party where your 2 and 4-legged friends could both attend, but you just didn’t know a venue that would allow something like this? We were recently faced with this dilemma, but because we live here in the Triangle, we were lucky enough to find a great place. In mid-2010, The Triangle Dog was just an idea we were trying to bring to fruition. By October 2010, The Triangle Dog magazine was taking shape. And by April 2011, when the first issue was published, The Triangle Dog had many partners including almost 2-dozen writers and a dozen advertisers. Over the last four issues, the The Triangle Dog has continued to grow and add many new partners. As you read the pages of this issue, please take note of all the people who have partnered with The Triangle Dog and contributed to it: from our advertisers to our writers, to our editor, designer, and photographers. Without each and every one of them, the pages you read would not be possible To show our appreciation to all of our partners, The Triangle Dog held a thank you celebration at Lap it Up, a new dog pool and recreation center in Durham, NC. The open house gave everyone an opportunity to celebrate, meet, and mingle with those who 30 Volume 2 • Issue 2
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make The Triangle Dog magazine possible. In addition, contributors had the opportunity to bring their furry family members to help us celebrate and check out the new facility. We were grateful to the owners of Lap it Up for allowing us to use their wonderful new facility.
a great big THANK YOU to each and every partner who has contributed to the first year of The Triangle Dog magazine, and to those who continue to contribute!
The dogs who were lucky enough to accompany their owners to the celebration tested their agility in a mock course, worked their way through a mind-teasing maze, and even took a dive in the new Lap it Up pool. Our two-legged guests enjoyed pizza, subs, chips, and sodas while our four-legged friends devoured doggie cake, provided by Gourmutt’s Bakery. We were so happy to see such a great turnout of all of our partners. Old partners were introduced to new ones, wet noses greeted us at every turn, and stories were shared among friends and 4-legged family members. The day consisted of furry friends, fun, and family— everything The Triangle Dog is all about. We want to say
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ask the vet
Q:
Florence from Raleigh asks:
Dr. Diane Deresienski , VMD, DABVP A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Diane Deresienski has been with Bowman Animal Hospital since 1993. She is also an adjunct Assistant Professor at North Carolina State University, where she teaches veterinary students about exotic animal practice. Dr. Deresienski has always had an interest in wildlife conservation and is a founding and past board member of the Piedmont Wildlife Center in Durham. In 2000, Dr. D (as she is affectionately called) became a specialist in Canine and Feline Practice by passing an extensive certification exam. She is one of only a few with this designation throughout the state of North Carolina. She enjoys general and orthopedic surgery, and has a special interest in Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis. In 2007, she received her PennHip Certification, qualifying her to perform the unique testing methods that can identify dogs at risk for hip dysplasia while they are only 4 months old. As an exotic veterinarian, Dr. D treats a variety of pets ranging from birds and reptiles, to small mammals such as rats, rabbits, and guinea pigs. Dr. D lives in Raleigh with her husband and an interesting menagerie: an African Budget frog, a ball python, a kitty named Looney Tunes, and a dog named Zeb. When not working or teaching, Dr. D enjoys yoga, getting away to the coast, and her season tickets to the North Carolina Ballet.
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My veterinarian says my dog, Beatrice, is overweight. She is a sixyear-old beagle and weighs about 40 pounds. She’s very active and eats store-bought food twice-a-day. I also give her the occasional table scrap. Are the extra couple pounds she may be carrying really that big of a deal?
A:
Dr. D writes:
Florence, your veterinarian is absolutely correct! Obesity in pets is a growing problem (no pun intended). The Association of Pet Obesity Prevention estimates that 45% of dogs and 58% of cats in the United States are overweight. Three extra pounds on a dachshund is the equivalent of 30 extra pounds on the average person. Obesity not only contributes negatively to your dog’s quality of life, but it is also probably shortening its life. A 14-year study done by the Purina Company compared dogs fed the same diet, but half the dogs received 25% more than the other dogs in the study. The healthy-body-weight dogs lived an average of 1.8 years longer and had a two-year delay in health problems as compared with the overweight dogs. Even graying of the muzzle hair was delayed! (See the study link: http://www.longliveyourdog.com/ twoplus/) You should work with your veterinarian to develop a weight control plan for your dog. There are a number of prescription diets
specifically designed to help your pet lose weight. There are also options for you to formulate and cook a weight-loss diet specifically for your dog. Generally, the biggest problem I find is that people feed their pet “little bites” of what they are eating. They don’t consider that all these little bites add up to quite a few calories. If these are not factored into your dog’s daily calorie intake, then they are unnecessary, added calories. It is hard to factor these calories into a weight management plan because they are random amounts and are not consistent day-to-day. I remind my clients that they wouldn’t feed their children this way. It’s best to feed well-balanced meals 2-3 times per day and no snacks in between. I hope you can get Beatrice started on a weight loss program before she starts to exhibit any of the problems I’ve mentioned above. Once dogs have lost weight, I invariably hear from their owners that they are “acting 5 years younger” or have been “playing ball for the first time in years.” It will make both you and Beatrice feel great when she loses the weight!
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natural Dog by Brian Lapham, DVM
Introduction to
Veterinary Acupuncture History and Development Acupuncture was originally developed in China, with the first needles being made of stone and fish bone around 3,000 B.C. Veterinary acupuncture was limited to horses and some cattle; small animals were not as important in Chinese culture at that time. As acupuncture evolved, it was incorporated into other treatment modalities such as moxibustion and herbal therapies, called Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). TCM is a complete and logical philosophy of medicine with its own language and concepts.
Definitions Acupuncture is actually one branch of TCM. It consists of inserting needles in specific points of the body to cause a desired physiological response. These specific points can also be manipulated by electricity, heat, and pressure. Moxibustion is the application of heat to specific acupuncture points using an herb called Chinese mugwort (Artemisia selengensis). Aquapuncture is the injection of fluid into acupuncture points. This injection stimulates the point and deeper structures for a longer duration. Yin/Yang (pronounced “yin/yahng”) describes the theory that all things have a complimentary, opposite relationship to each other and within each other (male/female, light/ dark, warm/cool). Qi (pronounced “chee”) is the vital energy force, which everything that exists is made up of and supported by. It travels through energy channels in the body called meridians.
Frequently Asked Questions 1. W ill acupuncture hurt my pet? Acupuncture points are, by definition, collections of nerve fibers and vessels. A slight pinch is sometimes felt, but people describe sensations of mild tingling to slight numbness (your 34 Volume 2 • Issue 2
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pet might feel the same). The needles used are much smaller than standard hypodermic needles often used for vaccination. 2. H ow does it work? Using principles and observations described over thousands of years, realignment of Qi via the interconnections of various points promotes health and healing. Modern research has described various physiological shifts following acupuncture, including boosting the body’s own natural painkillers, anti-inflammatory agents, immune system functions, and hormonal activity. 3. I s it safe? A recent study showed that the possible rare negative side effects of acupuncture (broken needle, bruising, and pain) are significantly less than most standard medical treatments. 4. I s acupuncture an accepted treatment? According the American Veterinary Medical Association, acupuncture is “an integral part of veterinary medicine.” The National Institutes of Health declared that it is an “effective therapeutic agent for certain disease conditions.” 5. H ow long is a visit and how often must I return? Depending on the medical condition under treatment and the severity, most first visits last 45-60 minutes, with subsequent visits lasting 15-20 minutes. At least three visits are required, with varying numbers of check-up visits thereafter: for example, for maintenance conditions such as arthritis, expect a monthly visit for treatment.
Further Information Four Paws Five Directions by Cheryl Schwartz, Celestial Arts, 1996. The Web That Has No Weaver by Ted Kaptchuck, Congdon & Weed Inc., 1983. The Foundations of Chinese Medicine by Giovanni Maciocia, Churchill Livingston Inc., 1994.
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Why Can’t My Dog Do Algebra?!
“A dog is not dumb because it cannot do algebra,” says noted dog behavior expert Dr. Ian Dunbar. But how do dogs learn and solve problems, and how do humans figure that out? Here in the Triangle, we are fortunate to have the Duke Canine Cognition Center studying dogs and figuring out new ways to assess their problem-solving and impulse control abilities. Why do we want to know this? The information from the Center can be used to help “regular” dog owners, as well as people who train dogs for complicated tasks. If the training time for service dogs could be shortened and training made more understandable for the dogs, we’d have tremendous benefit for children and adults waiting for these dogs. And as a behavior coach for dogs and humans, I am excited about research that helps us understand how to communicate easier.
As a staff member noted: “We are interested in studying ‘regular’ dogs because we are interested in how dogs as a group think and solve problems. Having many dogs in our database allows us to look at differences between specific populations…this summer we started giving out Duke Dog Diplomas. We like to point out we have the lowest tuition, highest graduation rate, and shortest degree program.” Dr. Brian Hare, who has traveled the world as an anthropological researcher, is the Center’s director. He started his work studying apes and identified some tasks which canines actually do better than apes because canines have developed a fascination with humans and are alert to human communication signals. For example, if you hide a treat or ball and then point to the area, most dogs will follow your finger; apes will not.
Photo by Jingzhi Tan
Photo by Jingzhi Tan Photo by Jingzhi Tan
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videotaped and carefully monitored; the staff gives lots of treats and encouragement, too. So think about it from your dog’s perspective: time with my owner, a ride in the car, treats, people talking nicely to me, treats, and they gave me a toy, too!
Photo by Evan MacLean
Dog owners have a unique opportunity to be a part of the Canine Cognition Center’s work. You can sign your dog up with the Center online at http:// evolutionaryanthropology.duke.edu/research/dogs/ lab-alumni. The staff will email you and give you several appointment options. You will go to campus and spend an hour with your dog who completes tests which are
by Clare Reece-Glore
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“So interacting with a dog makes you feel really good. And it makes the dog feel good. Dogs love us, they’re obsessed with humans.” Dr. Brian Hare Photo by Jingzhi Tan
Dogs and humans are two species who have developed together with intertwined needs. We developed dogs into the most diverse species to provide all sorts of help and comfort for us. So even though we are more familiar with research on primates and may consider them more “sophisticated” or “smart,” it is important for us to understand this creature we have lived with so intimately for thousands of years; we need to learn more about the particular abilities of canines. There are currently 1000+ dogs in the Center’s database. Consider adding to their research in 2012. Regardless if you are a Carolina, State, or Central fan, you can take your dog to Duke—just for an hour! Source: Bliwise R. Why dogs love us. Duke Magazine. JanuaryFebuary 2010; 96 (1).
Photo by Evan MacLean
“A dog is not dumb because it cannot do algebra. Better to look at the way a dog responds to and manipulates its environment (or its owner).” Dr. Ian Dunbar, Dog Behavior
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safety 101 by Allison Bennett
Leery of L oud N oises : Recognizing and Treating Noise Reactivities and Phobias April showers bring May flowers—but have you ever noticed that the lightning and thunder accompanying those showers can make your furry family member anxious or agitated? Or perhaps you’ve witnessed Fido run for cover at the onset of a neighbor’s firework display outside. Loud noise reactivities and phobias in dogs can manifest themselves in many ways. Reactions range from yawning and trembling to accidents, panting, barking, destruction, and escape. Some dogs may experience many of these symptoms, while others express only one. However, there are many forms of treatment available to keep your pet safe and comfortable. Behavioral approaches to treating loud noise reactivities and phobias involve altering your dog’s response by developing a competing behavior of relaxation. This approach can be tricky, because you want to avoid inadvertently rewarding the fearful response. As humans, often our first instinct is to offer a comforting hug or a pat on the back to those in need. However, to a dog, head scratching and excessive petting is a reward. When these behaviors are combined with the stimulus, they simply encourage fear. What’s worse, for some dogs, petting adds one more stimulus to an already over-stimulated animal. If the urge to comfort your pet is overwhelming, try applying gentle, continuous pressure (remember, don’t pet). If this pressure is effective, you’ll notice your dog exhale and
relax. In addition to your touch, a quick search on the Internet yields a wealth of products designed to wrap around your dog’s body and apply the appropriate amount of pressure (anxietywrap.com, thundershirt. com, etc.). Careful observation will often provide insight into the types of behaviors that your pet finds calming. For example, allowing your pet to retreat to a quiet, comfortable space (such as a kennel or closet) can be effective. Dogs that voluntarily retreat to their crate may benefit from a blanket draped over their crate. As long as your dog is safe, simply leaving it alone can be enough to reduce the reaction. If your dog has recently developed this negative reaction to loud noises, you can also try desensitizing by gradually exposing it to a similar sound below its reaction level. Slowly increase the noise level over several days or weeks and foster an environment that does not necessitate a response to the noise. Also, try counter-conditioning by offering a reward for not reacting. When administered correctly, this incentive will interfere with the dog’s ability to react. Finally, talk to your vet about drug therapy. This common treatment is a humane way to keep your dog comfortable around loud noises. Be patient, as it may take some time to discover the correct dosage. The goal of drug therapy is not to sedate your dog, but rather help your dog act normally and offer relief from discomfort. One of the most endearing qualities of dogs is that no two are alike; whatever your dog’s reaction, recognizing and treating noise reactivities and phobias will result in a safe and happy dog. Sources: Overall KL. Noise reactivities and phobias in dogs: Behavior modification strategies. DVM: The Newsmagazine of Veterinary Medicine. 2010; 41 (12): 4S-6S. Overall KL. Noise reactivities and phobias in dogs: Implementing effective drug therapy. DVM: The Newsmagazine of Veterinary Medicine. 2011; 42(1): 10S-12S.
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picture this!
Photo b y James Lettinga
C os i
Photo by Elissa Dellos so
Cr o c ke t & In g a ta Beznos Photo by Ri
tinga Photo by James Let
O liv e
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Delilah
L a yla
Photo by Patricia Edkins
Fargo
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My Older Dog Seems Confused! by Lisa Farling, DVM The progress that has been made in veterinary medicine over the last couple of decades, coupled with the everincreasing role that our pets have assumed within our families, has resulted in many canines with life expectancies far beyond what previous generations experienced. As a result, many pet owners now see some signs of pet aging that previously were not regularly observed. One of the primary age-associated changes that we expect to see in humans is a decline in cognitive functioning. No one is particularly surprised if a grandparent shows some alterations in awareness, decreased responsiveness to stimuli, or learning and memory deficits. The same brainassociated aging changes can be observed in some of our pets, too. There are no breed or gender tendencies. The acronym D I S H A can be used to group five categories of potential problems or observations in a pet with cognitive decline (early stages) or dysfunction (late stages). Disorientation is commonly observed. Getting lost in familiar environments, staring at walls or off into space, vocalizing without any apparent reason and no longer obeying previously successful commands are common complaints from the owner of a pet with cognitive changes.
House Soiling / Elimination changes can manifest as urinating/defecating inside when the pet has never done so before, urinating/defecating inside soon after the pet has been given the opportunity to go outside, or discontinuing signaling the owner that it needs to go outside to eliminate. Activity refers to behavior changes associated with either decreased physical activity and/or decreased interest in eating or grooming. It is important to understand, as a pet owner, that cognitive decline/dysfunction is progressive in most cases. Treatment is intended to slow the progression, not reverse changes already present. The goals are to provide the best quality of life for your pet and to maintain positive interactions between your pet and your family. A high quality diet supplemented with antioxidants such as vitamins E and C, Omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), and specific fruits and vegetables high in flavonoids and caroteniods can help to improve certain cellular structures and therefore slow cellular decline. As in people, pets that engage in daily activity and experience an enriched, stimulating environment have more stimulation of their brain, which can help to slow cognitive decline.
Interactions refers to the category of altered relationships with humans or other animals. Your elderly pet may no longer greet you at the door or interact with visitors as it did in the past. On the contrary, some pets actually desire more social interaction and may actively seek excessive attention from family members.
Regular walks, playtime, and consistent human interaction are examples of an enriched environment. Additionally, there are medications that have been used with promising results in some pets. Your veterinarian will likely want recent labwork prior to starting any of these medications that would require regular use. It is important to remember that other diseases can mimic the signs of cognitive dysfunction and ruling out these other conditions is important prior to starting any medication.
Sleep / Wake Cycle alterations include excessive sleeping during the day and/or nocturnal waking or vocalization.
Most importantly, remember that Spot is going to age just like we all will and he deserves to have the best quality of life regardless of his chronological age!
DISHA Disorientation Interactions Sleep / Wake Cycle House Soiling / Elimination Activity 40 Volume 2 • Issue 2
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canine careers
Becoming a Groomer: One Woman’s Journey
by Beth Ann Johnston
One of the most obvious reasons to begin a career in dog grooming is a love for dogs. However, for me, my love for animals extended beyond just canines. Even as a young child, one thing was apparent: I loved all animals. In fact, it was not unusual for me to prefer the company of an animal to that of any other human, even friends and family. I have always felt connected to animals and have been fascinated by their individuality. When other children where selling lemonade, or joining the local scout club, I was brushing our dog Fritz in the driveway, or taking him for long walks...or trying to get near that elusive cat that was determined to lose me.
For the next couple of years, I threw myself into the world of dog grooming. I wanted to learn everything about dog grooming—I simply could not get enough of this new found love! I read books, attended dog shows, talked ringside with dozens of handlers, and watched them prepare their own dogs. I went to seminars, watched videos, and then bought my first standard poodle, Kimberly, who became my first show dog and taught me so much more about grooming. With Kimberly’s help, I learned to perfect my skills to capture those little details that allowed us to stand out in a ring full of gorgeous show dogs. And it is those little details that I pay attention to each day on my customers’ dogs.
As I grew older, I discovered another love: horses. It was not long before I was working for free at a local stable, too young to be formally hired, in exchange for a little bonding time with the horses. I quickly discovered I was a fairly good rider and was even better at clipping and grooming them and presenting them for shows. Soon, everyone at the stable stopped grooming their own horses and just had me do the work for them
Dog Stylists, Inc.
So began my busy life in the animal world and every day I gained experience. One day, when I was working at a veterinary clinic in Burlington, NC, the groomer walked out on the job and there was my employer, with a room full of dogs and no one to groom them—or so she thought! Within minutes, I was in the grooming department, picking up tools and discovering that the tools and techniques that I used to groom horses came in handy for grooming dogs!
As the years passed I joined, then later became certified with, the National Dog Groomers Association of America. I have been grooming for many years now and every day I am so very thankful to have a job that I love. I have wonderful customers who have supported me, and I am so thankful for all the pieces that fell into place in my life to lead me to where I am today. Whether it be an older pet with thinning hair, a rescue dog, a dog with 3 legs, or a dog with one eye, they are all my little show dogs and I am so very proud and so very lucky to be able to go to my shop every day and make them all feel like they are Best In Show champions!
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training
Teaching Whistle Recall
by Patricia Tirrell, CPDT-KA Tellington TTouch Companion Animal Practitioner
Every dog needs a really reliable recall. That means, when you call your dog, at the very instant she hears the signal to come, she will stop what she is doing and come running to you. No questions asked. No hesitation. At your cue, she will run full speed to your arms. Does this sound too good to be true? It isn’t. The best part is that there is a really simple way to train this behavior! Step 1: Prepare your dog’s meal as usual. Just before you feed her, be sure she is looking at you. While she is looking, blow a whistle (preferably a pea-less whistle— we use boat whistles). Notice, she is looking at you while you are holding the bowl of food and she is learning: whistle + food = you! In that instant, you are teaching her that when she hears the whistle, you will give her yummy food and good things happen. Do this every time you feed her for at least two weeks. Don’t ask her to come when you blow the whistle yet. The only time you should blow the whistle is if she is looking at you AND you have super-duper yummy treats in your hand or her bowl of food. She deserves extraordinary treats every time she hears the whistle for at least the first two weeks she hears it. Step 2: After two weeks are up you can start the next step (keep doing step 1 —that is something you can always do!). It is important that you don’t jump ahead and start step 2 earlier! When you are in a low-distraction environment (i.e. inside your house) have some high value treats handy and blow the whistle the same way you have been when you feed her. Did she come running to you? Pretty cool! As soon as she comes to you, be sure and touch her neck around the collar area while you are giving her some treats. Then release her to go play. (If she won’t leave you, take a few steps and she will move with you and then will go play.) Touching her collar/neck area is important because if you ever need to catch her, you will be able to hold onto her. Step 3: Add in more levels of difficulty: you can hide, move to the outside, then hide when you are outside, increase distractions, increase distance, but most of all be sure and make a game out of it. 42 Volume 2 • Issue 2
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The simple rules of whistle recall: Only blow the whistle one time. Every time you blow the whistle, a treat MUST follow. Have FUN! Why the whistle works: The whistle is a consistent sound. It doesn’t get stressed if we are running late or in a hurry. The sound carries well in bad weather. It is the same every time we blow it—even if we get sick and have a cold or laryngitis! The dogs love the whistle! Happy Whistling!
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Wellness Careers Safety
Cooking Sports
Photo by Diane Lewis
Nutrition Rescues
“Helping You Create A Better Life For Your Dog”
www.thetriangledog.com
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tails from the heart by Liz Cotton, DVM
It’s a Wonderful Life (Now)
This is Buddy. Buddy lives a wonderful life, which was not always so. I first met Buddy in July of 2006 when he was brought into Fuquay Veterinary Hospital, which I practice at and own. It was a windy, rainy, and unusually cool day for July. We were having a routinely busy day at the office. A short distance away, events were unfolding that would affect us for years to come. While we were experiencing the last few calm moments of the day, a woman across town was tying a dog to the bumper of her car. The woman got into her car and drove away with the dog dragging behind. Two young men saw her as they were preparing to leave home for their jobs and gave chase in their cars. The men followed the car, frantically beeping their horns and dialing the police on their cell phones, as the little dog was dragged across railroad tracks. Finally, the woman pulled over. The men watched as she unhooked the unresponsive dog from the bumper and pushed him into a ditch, then got back into her car and drove away. Shocked and angry that anyone could do something like that, they scooped him up and rushed to our office. The steady rhythm of my day was broken when my employees rushed in with a wet, motionless bundle wrapped in a man’s coat. They breathlessly explained what had happened. 46 Volume 2 • Issue 2
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This little fellow was badly hurt. He was so covered in grit, mud, and oil that I couldn’t tell what color he was. He was alive, but cold and motionless. His left eye was so badly damaged that it appeared to be missing, and he had large cuts and scrapes all over his body. The pads of his feet had been torn off and his collar was nearly torn in two. As soon as he was strong enough, we bathed him and discovered that he was white with brindle spots. It turned out that he did have a left eye. It was just so dirty and the eyelid so badly damaged that it had only appeared to be missing. It took two months for him to heal. Someone named him Buddy and his story spread quickly around FuquayVarina, NC. During his stay with us, Buddy had many visitors and well-wishers who all fell in love with him. He proved to be a brave and intelligent dog who never complained about his pain. He liked to spend his days meeting guests in the reception area of our hospital. He loved everyone. As word spread that we were providing Buddy’s care out of our own pockets, people began donating gifts and money to Buddy. His will to survive affected many hearts and minds. And of course he was a favorite with our hospital staff.
Buddy's Buddies Finally, the day came for Buddy to leave for his new home and family. As we waved goodbye, we came up with a way to honor this courageous little fellow; we started the Buddy Fund as a way for our clients to donate money to care for pets abandoned at our hospital. Through his fund, Buddy has helped numerous dogs and cats turn sad beginnings into happy endings. Even though it has been over 5 years since the incident, Buddy still comes by to visit us regularly. He is always cheerful as he strolls around the hospital, making himself completely at home: it’s as if he never left. And, I think I can speak for all of my employees when I say that he has never left our hearts, either.
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