The Virginia Dog - Fall 2010 by Pam Wahl

Table

Contents Fall 2010

Volume 1

Issue 1

Cover Story Maureen Hanley of Fox Chase Farm By Lauren Hagan

Pet Acupuncture By Fred Wolfson

Upcoming Events Calendar

Fido-Friendly State Parks in Virginia

National Parks in Virginia

Blue Green Algae— Deadly Poison or Miracle Cure? By Randy Barbour, DVM

No More Grapes! By Anne Stoneham, DVM

Veterinary Rehabilitation Medicine: New Techniques to give your pet a New “Leash” on Life! By Krisi Erwin, DVM

18 20 22

Dog Friendly Businesses DiMuro Ginsberg & Augusta Physical Therapy By Lauren Hagan

Featured Business Owner Hillary Hutcheon of Happy Woof

Is your Dog Eating as Healthy as you Are? By Deb Dempsey

Dog Training Tom’s Tip – What you Allow is What you Teach By Tom Lacy

Dog Training Time for School By Pat Lacy

Safety What Animal Owners Should Know about Internet Pharmacies By American Veterinary Medical Association

SPCA Locations in Virginia SPCA locations in Virginia

Dog Nose for News Paw-Friendly Relief Areas By Abby Dyjack

Nutrition

By Hillary Collyer

Weekend Getaway Cabin Creekwood By Stan Horst

Pets in the Workplace

Weekend Getaway Lost Dog Bed & Breakfast By Abby Dyjack

Explore the Great Outdoors with your Best Friend

42 44

Summer Event Upperville Colt & Horse Show – Traveling Canines By Janet Hitchen

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On the Cover

Maureen Hanley of Fox Chase Farm Cover Photo By Janet Hitchen

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[Contributer’s] Randy Barbour, DVM

Deb Dempsey, Business Owner

Randy Barbour is a native of Vinton, Virginia. He graduated from the Medical College of Virginia School of Pharmacy in 1981, and The Virginia-Maryland School of Veterinary Medicine in 1986. After working in emergency and small animal private practice for four years, he founded the Yellow Springs Veterinary Clinic in 1990. Today, Dr. Barbour serves as medical director and enjoys the challenges and rewards of helping our cherished patients live the healthiest life possible.

Deb is a co-owner of Mouthful’s Pet Boutique, a hip and trendy shop located in Denver, Colorado and her company also manufactures their own line of natural treats for dogs and cats. Deb spends a huge amount of time researching pet health, nutrition, wellness and hygiene for all the products, foods and treats she carries in her store and keeps abreast of all the information regarding the pet industry.

Hillary Collyer, Attorney

Pat Lacy, Dog Trainer

Hillary Collyer is a Virginia lawyer whose practice focuses on civil and commercial litigation. Ms. Collyer has worked in civil, commercial, contract, employment and business law. She has practiced before state and federal trial and appellate courts and arbitration panels. She is licensed to practice before the Virginia Supreme Court, the D.C. Court of Appeals, the U.S. District Court for Virginia’s Eastern District. Ms. Collyer co-wrote “Employment Law in Virginia: The Age Discrimination in Employment Act” and she is a contributing author of “Virginia Employment Law Letter.” She received her law degree from the George Washington University Law School.

Pat is the owner of Dog Lovers Obedience School located in Richmond, Virginia. As an expert and well-respected trainer, Pat trained her first dog 54 years ago, founding her obedience school in 1976. Pat’s specialty is family pet training. Pat’s noted accomplishments include instruction of a Dog Obedience Instructors Course in 1980 that included dog psychology, dog behavior, as well as training techniques. This was the first two year college level course in the United States. In 1984, Pat founded Therapy Dogs and Associates with volunteers taking trained dogs into nursing homes and hospitals.

Krisi Erwin, DVM

Anne Stoneham, DVM

A life-long resident of Loudoun County, VA, Dr. Erwin graduated from Longwood College in 2000, and the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine in 2003. Dr. Erwin is a practicing veterinarian with the Leesburg Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Erwin is launching her own business, Wholistic Paws, in September 2010. Wholistic Paws will help to augment services offered by other veterinary hospitals in the area by providing in home acupuncture, rehabilitation, hospice, and euthanasia. Dr. Erwin is a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist and a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist.

Dr. Stoneham is an emergency and critical care specialist at VCA Veterinary Referral Associates in Gaithersburg, MD where she is the director of the emergency department. She completed her veterinary training at three different institutions: veterinary school at Cornell University in NY, internship at the Dove Lewis Emergency Animal Hospital (Oregon) and residency at Tufts University (Massachusetts). Her interests include emergency surgery, acute kidney failure, sepsis and hypoadrenocorticism (among others). In her free time, she enjoys cycling, gardening, and spending time with her husband, two cats and two birds.

Tom Lacy, Dog Trainer

Fred Wolfson L.Ac

Tom along with his wife Pat are the owners of Dog Lovers Obedience School located in Richmond, Virginia. Tom joined efforts with his wife Pat Lacy in 1983. Under Pat’s supervision, Tom trained his first dog 25 years ago. He is an instructor, as well as a writer and counselor. Tom established the New Hope Counseling Service for premarital, marriage and family crisis counseling. As a writer, Tom has published several books, articles and assisted others in doing the same. In his spare time Tom enjoys researching genealogy, and as such has published a book on a simple system for listing family members in any printed edition.

Fred is a licensed Acupuncturist and Certified Animal Acupuncturist. Fred received his Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from Loyola College of Baltimore, Maryland, his Master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling from Towson State University, and training in Acupuncture Therapy from Midwest College of Oriental Medicine in Wisconsin. Fred received Animal Acupuncture training at the Tai Sophia Acupuncture College. In addition, Fred possesses over 15 years of experience as a massage therapist specializing in trigger point therapies, sports injuries, and deep tissue massage for humans.

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Cancer stole my best friend. -- Dr. Teresa Koogler, DVM

As a veterinarian I have delivered the diagnosis of cancer far too many times. In fact, nearly 10,000 cases of canine bone cancer are diagnosed each year.

Kate, and to raise money for bone related cancer research.

Due to genetic similarities between dogs and humans along with exposure to common environmental factors, studying bone cancer in dogs provides The Kate Koogler Canine signiďŹ cant insight into bone Cancer Fund was established to honor the memory of my dog, cancer research in humans. With your help, continued funding to this research promises new treatments and possible prevention in both dogs and people. For more information or to make a donation, please visit

www.katefund.org

The Kate Koogler Canine Cancer Fund is a 501 3C nonproďŹ t, all volunteer organization.

At the Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA, love is not just a feeling or an emotion, “love” is a verb. It is a commitment to action and a dedication to saving lives. Love has made Charlottesville-Albemarle a No Kill community. Visit caspca.org to learn more and join Sissy Spacek and Schuyler Fisk in supporting the “Love Somebody” campaign. Purchase Schuyler Fisk’s “Love Somebody” on iTunes for 99 C to help the animals. All proceeds benefit the Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA.

Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA ÎÎxxÊ iÀ >ÀÊ À°ÊUÊ >À ÌÌiÃÛ i]Ê6 ÊÓÓ ä£ {Î{° ÇÎ°x x ÊUÊV>Ã«V>° À}

Middleburg Humane Foundation

A farm shelter specializing in the rescue & rehabilitation of abused, neglected, and “at risk” animals, both large & small.

We at Middleburg Humane believe that all animals, both large & small have the right to safe & sanitary living conditions, protection from abuse & neglect, & to live their lives in an environment free from pain or fear. We are reaching our goal of a humane & responsible community through outreach programs of assistance, education & where necessary, intervention. Visit our website for available animals. OPT TO ADOPT because EVERY LIFE IS PRECIOUS! PO Box 1238 Middleburg VA 20118

540-364-3272

www.middleburghumane.com

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[Pet Acupuncture]

by Fred Wolfson, L.Ac.

Acupuncture can be an effective complement to regular veterinary care for many conditions that our dogs and cats experience. Older pets are often seen for chronic muscle and joint pain, such as osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, and intervertebral disc disease. Acupuncture is effective with these conditions because it can often reduce inflammation, stimulate pain relieving chemicals in the nervous system, improve blood flow, and relieve muscle spasms, stiffness, and trigger points.

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[Pet Acupuncture]

The most common ailments treated with acupuncture are listed below: • Muscle and joint problems. • Spine and hip conditions. • Arthritis and chronic pain. • Speeding recovery from injury and surgery. • Digestive and urinary issues. • Allergy, breathing and skin issues. • Adjustment to drug therapies such as pain medications, anti-inflammatories and cancer medications.

• Behavioral issues, anxiety, shyness, and stress-related disorders. It is often used in combination with behavioral training and other therapies.

The needles are left in place for as long as possible without stressing the pet. Many pets experience the deep calming effect that acupuncture has on the nervous system in the same way people do. The length of treatment varies considerably. Some easygoing pets will happily rest with the needles for a half hour while other high energy pets may be ready to go after 10 minutes. The goal throughout is to respect the pet’s individual tolerance for this new experience. The use of petting, praise, and treats can help a lot in the process as well. Like people, the pet’s response to treatment depends on the condition being treated, the severity and length of time with the condition, the pet’s age and overall health, as well as environment, diet, exercise, stress, and additional treatments they receive such as medication. A pet that is highly aggressive or fearful with new people and situations may not be the best candidate for acupuncture. These issues should be discussed before the first visit.

Pet owners that have received acupuncture themselves will find the process with animals to be very similar. The owner often sits next to the pet to provide reassurance and help with positioning. Every effort is made to help the pet relax in the new situation before the needles are inserted. This process requires experimentation, and varies depending upon the pet’s personality, their ease with new environments and people, the a t m o s p h e re , noises, temperature and smells inside the treatment room, the attitudes of the owner and acupuncturist, and most importantly, the current condition of the pet. How much pain are they having that day? Have they just arrived after a long car ride? Are they car sick, hungry, thirsty, cold, over-heated, or in urgent need to go the bathroom? Once these issues are addressed, the pet is prompted to lie in a comfortable position.

Acupuncture therapy is a process that often requires frequent, consistent, and closely-spaced treatments to be effective. Many common pain and mobility conditions experienced by pets require one or two treatments per week for a month or more before significant lasting results are seen. Pets, like people, often do not have optimal success with an erratic and infrequent treatment schedule.

The acupuncture needles are an inch long, a little thicker than a hair and nothing like an injection needle. They are sterile, used only once and then discarded. Pets, like most people, experience little sensation when these very thin needles are inserted superficially. Generally, eight to 18 points are chosen all over the body, depending on the condition treated.

Fred Wolfson, L.Ac. is a licensed and nationally boardcertified acupuncturist for people. He is also a Marylandcertified animal acupuncturist and works cooperatively with many local vets. Fred treats pets and people in Frederick and Thurmont MD. He may be contacted at 301-788-9451 or at www.HealWithAcupuncture.com.

Assessing how much pain our pet experiences is challenging at times. With treatment, some pets show visible improvement in mobility, flexibility, agility, and some of them show less sensitivity to being touched. Owners will report that the pet is able to again jump up on furniture, or climb steps they have been avoiding. Some older or very ill pets may show limited, visible changes in mobility, but they may become more sociable, friendly and playful, appear more energetic, sleep more soundly, they may show less restlessness, labored breathing or panting, and they might exhibit a brighter mood. These changes, although difficult to measure, may be indications that the pet is feeling more comfortable. Acupuncture has been used in Asia for thousands of years for people and pets, and now our dogs and cats can benefit from this effective, safe and gentle therapy.

The Virginia Dog c Fall 2010 13

[Blue-Green Algae] Deadly Poison or Miracle Cure? by Randy Barbour, DVM

A deadly combination of warm summer weather, drought and nutrients from farm run-off can lead to the release of toxins from algae in ponds, lakes and streams–which can be fatal to dogs. Under the right set of circumstances, large blooms of blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can form in our dog’s favorite swimming hole and produce highly toxic chemicals called microcystins, anatoxins and saxitoxins. These chemicals are very irritating to the skin and eyes and, if swallowed, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, convulsions, labored breathing, severe muscle weakness and death due to liver damage.

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The right set of circumstances is thankfully rare, and there have been relatively few cases reported of blue-green algae toxicity in dogs in the U. S., but this is definitely a summer hazard to be aware of, and to avoid, if possible. Ponds covered in thick green scum reminiscent of green paint or pea soup are obviously best to stay out of, but there is no way to visibly determine if a pond is safe for your pet to swim in. Blue-green algae is also sold in many health food stores as a nutritional supplement. A quick internet search will provide access to a number of products containing blue-green

[Blue-Green Algae]

algae which claim to stimulate stem cell production, “detoxify your systems,” prevent cancer and heart disease, and boost immunity. These products are promoted as a treatment for a host of ailments in dogs, cats and people, including asthma, allergies, anxiety, depression, fatigue, hypoglycemia, digestive problems, feline leukemia, HIV, and attention deficit disorder. They also claim to help with weight loss, and improve memory and mental ability. Unfortunately, there is no scientific evidence that blue-green algae can treat or cure any illness or that it has any health benefits at all. A recent court decision in California forced marketers of blue-green algae supplements to stop making health claims. Health Canada, the equivalent of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), found that some blue-green algae supplements contain high levels of microcystin, and the agency has warned consumers about potential contamination. These products are harvested from Upper Klamath Lake in Oregon and then freeze dried and sold as nutritional and health aids. Manufacturers claim to be able to separate the toxin producing microcystis algae from the non toxic AFA (Aphanizomenon flos-aquae) algae; however, in May, 2000, the Oregon Department of Health found that 63 out of 87 samples of blue-green algae supplements tested had microcystis levels above its regulatory limit of 1 microgram per gram. In conclusion, my advice is to avoid exposing your dog to blue-green algae in all forms, whether found in the scum covering your pet’s favorite swimming hole, or in the form of supplements which have no proven benefit and which may contain potent toxins.

The Virginia Dog c Fall 2010 15

[No More Grapes...]

by Anne Stoneham, DVM, DACVEC

ax, a gorgeous, 4-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever, is carried into the emergency room at VCA Veterinary Referral Associates on a stretcher. There are no wounds, no bruises, no fractures. But this poor boy is so weak, he can’t lift his head, let alone stand. While I am getting my initial exam done, his mom is talking to one of my nurses in the waiting room and, although frazzled with anxiety, she has the presence of mind to authorize us to start necessary treatments and tests immediately.

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[No More Grapes...]

Max’s heart rate is high, his pulses feel faint against my fingertips, his body temperature is several degrees below normal and his blood pressure is too low to register. Another nurse places a catheter in a vein in his front leg and we start a rapid bolus of intravenous fluids. I send a small sample of blood down to the lab and within five minutes, the technician from the lab hands me his results. His kidney values are sky high. My nurse returns from talking to mom. She only has to say four words before everything is clear: “They fed him grapes.” Grapes. Understandably, pet parents think they’re giving their dog a healthy snack. A grape, after all, is a tiny, innocuous piece of fruit. And we all know that raisins are “nature’s candy”. True. Except that we’ve found that as little as 0.7 ounces of grapes per kilogram body weight or 0.1 ounces of raisins per kilogram of body weight can cause severe, life-threatening, acute kidney failure in dogs. Max only ate a few handfuls. We know that it doesn’t happen to every dog that eats grapes or raisins. I talk to plenty of dog owners who tell me they have fed grapes to their dogs more than a few times and have never seen any negative effects. Unfortunately, we don’t know why some dogs develop kidney failure after eating grapes, while others don’t. The most prominent theory is that the toxin is present in variable quantities in the fruit. Maybe it depends on the environmental conditions in which the grape are grown, or maybe on a genetic predisposition with the dogs. This means that it is possible for a dog to eat grapes one day without ill effects—and end up in the hospital after eating them on a separate occasion. In either case, I have been known to pull grapes out of dog’s mouths when at friend’s parties, and I will continue to do so. Max is extremely dehydrated when he comes in so I treat him with aggressive intravenous fluid therapy to flush toxins, that are normally excreted in the urine, out of his body (diuresis: the cornerstone of treatment for kidney failure from any cause). Kidney failure occurs in unpredictable phases: in one phase, the kidneys produce very little urine while in the next, they can produce up to fifty times the normal amount of urine. This can make treatment very difficult unless we are monitoring a lot of parameters day and night.

that we aren’t giving him the best chance possible to recover. The danger of overloading him is just as great; we can give him so much fluid that it overflows into his lungs and causes respiratory failure. There are other causes of acute kidney failure, so I ensure that Max has not eaten anything else that can affect the kidneys (antifreeze, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, other items; there is a long list). I test his urine for an infection and his blood for leptospirosis (a contagious disease affecting both animals and humans and spread by infection with a bacterial pathogen called Leptospira). I add antibiotics and antacids to his treatments. I can see that Max’s kidneys hurt him, so I also add pain medications. By early the next morning Max is producing only a few teaspoons of urine every hour. He should be producing at least four to five times that volume. His kidney values have increased and now his potassium level is getting too high. I recheck his CVP and see that it has increased to the point where the threat of fluid overflowing into his lungs is very real. Max’s kidneys have shut down and have not responded to treatment with diuretics. Our best option is dialysis. Now that Max is not urinating, the toxins are building up in his blood stream and are making him horribly ill. Dialysis can remove the toxins from his system while his kidneys heal. I talk to Max’s Mom on the phone and within two hours, Max is on his way to the Animal Medical Center in New York City, where there is a hemodialysis unit. He spends five days in the unit and treatment is successful. Max eventually returns to being the crazy, happy Lab he was before. He still gets into everything and will eat anything he can get his mouth on, whether it is edible or not. But he will eat no more grapes.

In addition to monitoring Max’s vital signs (temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate), I monitor his blood pressure. I place a urinary catheter so I could check his urine production every hour. And I place a long catheter into his jugular vein so I can check something called his central venous pressure (CVP). The latter allows me to make sure I’m pushing as much fluid as possible into him but not overloading him. The danger from not giving enough fluids is

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Lives of Dogs: Origins & Evolution of Hunting & Sporting Breeds A One-Day Public Symposium

Saturday, October 23, 2010, 9 a.m-5 p.m. National Sporting Library & Fine Art Museum Middleburg, Virginia, www.nsl.org Pre-registration & fee required. Contact fellowship@nsl.org or 540-687-6542 x 11.

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Muscle and joint conditions Spine and hip conditions Arthritis and chronic pain Speeding recovery from injury and surgery Digestive and urinary issues Allergy, breathing and skin issues Behavioral issues, aggressiveness and shyness Fred Wolfson, L.Ac.

Maryland Certified Animal Acupuncturist Offices in Frederick & Thurmont, MD 301.788.9451 s www.healwithacupuncture.com

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Morris Animal Foundation was established in 1948 by Dr. Mark L. Morris Sr., a visionary veterinarian who believed there was a need for a foundation that solely addressed the health and welfare of animals. Today, Morris Animal Foundation is a world leader in advancing veterinary research to protect, treat and cure animals. The Foundation has been at the forefront of funding health breakthroughs that have helped animals on every continent on earth. Since its inception, the Foundation has funded more than 1,600 humane animal health studies. Foundation funding currently supports more than 200 research projects each year at more than 60 of the world’s most respected research institutions, colleges of veterinary medicine and zoos. Not long ago, a diagnosis of cancer meant a dog’s life would likely be short and painful. Not anymore. Thanks to cancer research, including studies funded by Morris Animal Foundation, many dogs today are beating this disease. Still, more research is needed to ensure that all dogs are cancer free. One in four dogs will die of cancer—it is the No. 1 cause of death in dogs over the age of 2. Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) launched the Canine Cancer Campaign with the goal of preventing and curing canine cancer, while also finding treatments for dogs suffering from the disease now. At the heart of the campaign is a commitment to the highest research standards, so we can launch a focused and strategic effort to end the great suffering that cancer creates for dogs and the families who love them. MAF has launched this campaign with the following goals:

• Provide new treatments for dogs currently suffering from cancer

• Establish a high-quality tumor sample bank that can be used by cancer researchers

• Develop prevention strategies so this disease might one day be eliminated or, at the very least, drastically reduced in incidence and severity

• Train new researchers who will work to find preventions, treatments and the ultimate cures

The Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) has funded over 100 canine cancer studies so far, driving the fundraising and helping coordinate the research of schools of veterinary medicine, cancer centers and scientific organizations around the world. The Canine Cancer Campaign is an unprecedented global effort to prevent, treat and, ultimately, cure cancer in dogs. We’re giving scientist genetic tools to study cancer, helping them test new treatments and supporting their efforts to determine ways to prevent cancer from developing. Never has there been more hope promise for dogs and those who love them. Coastal Pet Products is proud to announce their partnership with the Morris Animal Foundation’s Cure Canine Cancer Campaign. Coastal offers a variety of products including; collars, leads, and waste pick-up bags. These products are used to help raise awareness and aid in finding a cure for canine cancer. A portion of all the sales will be donated to the Cure for Canine Cancer Campaign. Morris Animal Foundation’s goal is to have a cure for canine cancer within the next 10-20 years.

For more information, visit our web site at www.coastalpet.com

The Virginia Dog c Fall 2010 27

Dog Nose for News

new pet relief areas are now available by Abby Dyjack

Stressed-out travelers at least have one less thing to worry about—new pet relief areas are now available at Washington Dulles International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport! The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, which operates the two airports, has recently opened five pet relief areas at Dulles and four such areas at National. The areas at Dulles include indoor and outdoor facilities. Three areas are pre-security, outdoor locations, placed outside of the main terminal, and two locations are indoor, post-security—convenient for ticketed, connecting-flight passengers. The indoor locations have a unique ventilation system and a flushing and drainage system to make sure the facilities remain clean. The layout of the pet relief area includes a mock fire hydrant and artificial turf located inside a fenced area. The artificial turf was installed because the material is easy to maintain and is friendly for dogs. At National, the four pet relief areas are on natural grass and are in outdoor, fenced-in areas. They are located on the street side of the terminal buildings. The airports are providing disposal supplies and containers at all pet relief areas, for pet owners’ convenience. The pet relief areas were created to comply with recent federal requirements stipulating that airports should “provide service animal relief areas for service animals that accompany passengers.” However, due to the needs of other passengers, those who are traveling with family pets are also welcome to use the areas!

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s ] [ upcoming event 09.11

09.11

09.18

Doggy Paddle Saturday, September 11, 2010

Petsmart National Adopt-A-Thon Saturday, September 11, 2010

Dogs Gone Swimming Saturday, September 18, 2010

Braemar’s Iona Sound Pool’s Doggie Paddle 12300 Iona Sound Dr in Bristow, VA 12 Noon - 4 pm Rain date is September 12, same time

12142 Jefferson Avenue Newport News, VA 12 noon – 3 pm

10am - 4pm Norfolk Wellness & Fitness Center, Norfolk

Friendly dogs are welcome to come and enjoy the pool before it closes for the season. Cost is $10 per dog (cash only) - limited to 2 dogs per family. If you plan to attend, please note that while the event is open to anyone in the community, only adults & children over 16 may enter the pool area with their dogs. No people may enter the water at any time. No food or treats are permitted and tennis balls will be provided. Donations of unopened pet food and new items (toys, beds, etc.) will be accepted during the event to help stock the Prince William SPCA’s pet food pantry. No pre-registration required. Proceeds benefit the Prince William SPCA!

3rd Annual Mutt Strut Sunday, September 19, 2010

09.19

1 pm – 5 pm Sleepy Hole Park A doggone fun day to raise money for the animals! Our 3rd Annual Mutt Strut will take place on September 19th from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Sleepy Hole Park in Suffolk, VA. For more info: www.firstgiving.com/suffolkhumanesociety.

Charity Classic Golf Tournament “Give a Dog a Bone” Friday, October 8, 2010

10.08

09.18

10:00 am – 12:00 Noon Join the Richmond SPCA and the Valentine Richmond History Center for a new season of History Hounds! Dogs are welcome on these two-hour guided walking tours of Richmond’s historic neighborhoods. For info: www.richmondspca.org

5th Annual Virginia Westie Walk Sunday, September 26, 2010

09.26

Joseph Bryan Park, Richmond, Virginia - Pavilion #1. A fun-filled event...where all breeds are welcome. You don’t have to be owned by a Westie to participate...in fact, you don’t even have to bring a dog!

McLean Pet Expo Saturday, October 16, 2010

10.16

11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The Richmond SPCA, the Muscular Distrophy Association and the ClubCorp Employee Partners Care Foundation will benefit from the annual “Charity Classic” golf tournament hosted by The Club at Viniterra. The day will feature a fun, competitive tournament, silent auction and more! For more info: www.richmondspca.org

Lewinsville Park 1659 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, VA (703) 790-0123

10.23

10:00 am – 2:00 pm Benefiting all Hampton Roads Companion Animals Stockley Gardens Park in historic Ghent For more info: www.norfolkspcadogwalk.com

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09.18

History Hounds Walking Tours Saturday, September 18, 2010

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

29th Annual Norfolk SPCA Dog Walk Saturday, October 23, 2010

Add a splash to your weekend! This event will include water events for dogs, refreshments, canine & agility demonstrations, pet first aid training, and more!

For more info: peggy.moore@fairfaxcounty.gov

32nd Annual Walk for the Animals Sunday October 24, 2010

10.24

Neptune’s Park 31st Street Park, Virginia Beach For more information: www.vbspca.com

427-0070

Pets in the Park Saturday, September 18th, 2010 Gypsy Hill Park, Staunton, VA

A fun-filled, educational event for the entire family! We’ll have a Dog Gone Good Dog Show, a Candid Cat Photo Contest, and many more events, all for the benefit of helping the lost and unwanted pets at the Augusta Regional SPCA.

10.03

14th Annual Bark in the Park Dog Walk & Fun Festival Sunday, October 3, 2010

12 pm – 5 pm Chesapeake City Park, Chesapeake Mark you calendars for the biggest pet event in Chesapeake! Bark in the Park will be jam-packed with things for you and your canine to do and to see! The feature attraction will be the Pledge Walk for registered walkers that have raised money to benefit the Chesapeake Humane Society. The Fun Fest will include entertainment, canine demonstrations, contests, low-cost microchips, children’s activities, rescue groups and pet-related exhibitors. For more info: www.firstgiving.com/chesapeakehumane.

Macy’s Shop-For-A-Cause Saturday, October 16, 2010

10.16

9 am – 10 pm x20

Patrick Henry Mall Coupons will be available for purchase. $5 each and proceeds will benefit the homeless animals of the Peninsula SPCA. For more info: peninsulaspca.com

CAGE-FREE DOGGIE DAYCARE CAGE-FREE BOARDING ALL NATURAL and HOLISTIC PET FOODS and TREATS FAMILY OWNED and OPERATED

757.457.7834

www.cosmoscorneronline.com

#ENTRAL $R s 6IRGINIA "EACH 6!

The Virginia Dog encourages you to spay and neuter your pets. It is a humane and responsible choice that will help to slow the overpopulation and as a result decrease the euthanasia of homeless animals in shelters. Spaying and neutering improves pet health, behavior, and increases the quality of life while lessening the burden on overcrowded animal shelters.

Brought to you by:

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[Fido-Friendly State Parks in Virginia] Natural Tunnel State Park 1420 Tunnel Parkway Duffield, VA (276) 940-2674 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/nat.shtml New River Trail State Park 176 Orphanage Drive Falls, VA (276) 699-6778 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/new.shtml Pocahontas State Park 10301 State Park Road Chesterfield, VA (804) 796-4255 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/poc.shtml Sailor’s Creek State Park 6541 Saylers Creek Road Rice, VA (804) 561-7510 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/sai.shtml

Bear Creek Lake State Park 22 Bear Creek Lake Road Cumberland, VA (804) 492-4410 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/bea.shtml

Grayson Highlands State Park 829 Grayson Highland Lane Mouth of Wilson, VA (276) 579-7092 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/gra.shtml

Bella Isle State Park 1632 Belle Isle Road Lancaster, VA (804) 462-5030 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/bel.shtml

Holliday Lake State Park 2759 Park Road Appomattox, VA (434) 248-6308 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/hol.shtml

Caledon State Park 11617 Caledon Road King George, VA (540) 663-3861 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/cal.shtml

Hungry Mother State Park 2854 Park Blvd. Marion, VA (276) 781-7400 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/hun.shtml

Claytor Lake State Park 6620 Ben H. Bolen Drive Dublin, VA (540) 643-2500 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/cla.shtml Douthat State Park 14239 Douthat State Park Road Millboro, VA (540) 862-8100 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/dou.shtml Fairy Stone State Park 967 Fairystone Lake Drive Stuart, VA (276) 930-2424 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/fai.shtml False Cape State Park 4001 Sandpiper Road Virginia Beach, VA (757) 426-7128 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/fal.shtml First Landing State Park 2500 Shore Drive Virginia Beach, VA (757) 412-2300 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/fir.shtml

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James River State Park 751 Park Road Gladstone, VA (434) 933-4355 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/jam.shtml Kiptopeke State Park 3540 Kiptopeke Drive Cape Charles, VA (757) 331-2267 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/kip.shtml Lake Anna State Park 6800 Lawyers Road Spotsylvania, VA (540) 854-5503 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/lak.shtml Leesylvania State Park 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Drive Woodbridge, VA (703) 730-8205 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/lee.shtml Mason Neck State Park 7301 High Point Road Lorton, VA (703) 339-2385 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/mas.shtml

Shenandoah River State Park 350 Daughter of Stars Drive Bentonville, VA (540) 622-6840 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/and.shtml Sky Meadow State Park 11012 Edmonds Lane Delaplane, VA (540) 592-3556 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/sky.shtml Smith Mountain Lake State Park 1235 State Park Road Huddleston, VA (540) 297-6066 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/smi.shtml Staunton River State Park 1170 Staunton Trail Scottsburg, VA (434) 572-4623 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/sta.shtml Staunton River Battlefield 1035 Fort Hill Trail Randolph, VA (434) 454-4312 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/stb.shtml Twin Lakes State Park 788 Twin Lakes Road Green Bay, VA (434) 392-3435 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/twi.shtml Westmoreland State Park 1650 State Park Road Montross, VA (804) 493-8821 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/wes.shtml Wilderness Road State Park Route 2 Ewing, VA (276) 445-3065 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/wil.shtml York River State Park 5526 Riverview Road Williamsburg, VA (757) 566-3036 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/yor.shtml

Visit us on the web at: www.thevirginiadog.com Our web site is chock full of valuable information to include: A Complete Pet Directory for the ďŹ nest in products for you & your best friend c A Dog Park Locator c A Hiking Guide c A Beach Guide c An Events Calendar c A Shopping Directory c And much, much more! c

To advertise with The Virginia Dog, contact us at: (301) 514-2804 â&#x20AC;˘ bark@thevirginiadog.com

www.thevirginiadog.com c

Join us on Facebook listed under Virginia Dog c

[National Parks in Virginia] Explore the Great Outdoors with your Best Friend

Appomattox Court House National Park Highway 24 Appomattox, VA (434) 352-8987 x26 www.nps.gov/apco/index.htm Booker T. Washington National Monument 12130 Booker T. Washington Highway Hardy, VA (540) 721-2094 www.nps.gov/bowa/index.htm Colonial National Historic Park Interstate 64 Yorktown, VA (757) 898-3400 www.nps.gov/colo/index.htm Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania Nat’l Military Park 120 Chatham Lane Fredericksburg, VA (540) 371-0802 www.nps.gov/frsp/index/htm George Washington Birthplace National Monument 1732 Popes Creek Road Washington’s Birthplace, VA (804) 224-1732 www.nps.gov/gewa/index/htm Manassas National Battlefield Park 12521 Lee Highway Manassas, VA (703) 361-1339 www.nps.gov/mana/index/htm Petersburg National Battlefield 1539 Hickory Hill Road Petersburg, VA (804) 732-3531 www.nps.gov/pete/index/htm Prince William Forest Park 18100 Park Headquarters Road Triangle, VA (703) 221-4706 www.nps.gov/prwi/index/htm Shenandoah National Park 3655 Highway 211 East Luray, VA (540) 999-3500 www.nps.gov/shen/index/htm

34 Fall 2010 c The Virginia Dog

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The Virginia Dog c Fall 2010â&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x201A; 35â&#x20AC;&#x192;â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

Nutrition

Is your dog eating as healthy as you are? by Deb Dempsey

Imagine eating the same bowl of dry cereal for every meal, day after day, for years and years. You would likely be selective about which cereal you’d choose before you’d take on such an endeavor. But that’s exactly what you’re doing to your dog if you’re feeding him or her the same kibble day after day. Have you taken the same care with your pet’s food?

36 Fall 2010 c The Virginia Dog

Nutrition

Tip # 1 – Don’t take the manufacturer’s word for it Dog food manufacturers take liberties with the descriptive words used on dog food bags. Words like “natural” or “healthy” are often misleading terms that give the consumer the perception that the food is truly preservative-free or healthy. Pictures of plump chickens or pea pods are often not indicative of the main ingredients in the food. Navigate through the marketing by flipping the bag over and scrutinizing the ingredient panel. If you see the words corn, soy or wheat in any form (like corn-gluten meal or soy protein)—put it back on the shelf. Generally, the high-quality foods are not heavily advertised in the mainstream media. Those foods aren’t prominently displayed on a grocery store shelf, but these products can be found in independent pet boutiques across the country. Don’t be intimidated by these stores and don’t have a preconceived notion that the foods will be more expensive there. Pound for pound, high-quality dog food does cost more. You will, however, feed much less of the high-quality food to your pet because it isn’t jammed full of fillers.

Tip # 2 – Look for the fat Zero in on the first source of fat on the label. If you see the words “animal fat,” take that product off your list. The term “animal fat” doesn’t specify the type of animal the fat is derived from. This is a red flag because animal fat can include fat rendered from the 4-D animals (dead, diseased, disabled or dying prior to slaughter), animals euthanized at shelters, vets or zoos, road kill, outdated supermarket meat, and rancid restaurant fat, among other things. Instead, opt for fats like chicken fat, olive oil or coconut oil.

Tip # 3 – Know how to decipher which ingredients matter most The ingredients that are located prior to the first fat source generally make up the majority of the food. Steer clear of poor quality ingredients found on dog food labels such as:

• Corn or soy gluten meal

• Poultry by-product meal

• Meat meal

Corn gluten meal is often used as a weed killer, and it is a by-product of the high-fructose corn syrup industry. This

is a cheap way to insert protein into low-quality food. The majority of the corn in the U.S. is grown using geneticallymodified technology. The corn is treated so it can withstand spray after spray of weed killer in the fields. Although many countries, including China, require GMO labeling, the United States does not. For that reason, avoid corn in your fourlegged family’s diet altogether. This might be a good time to discuss the benefit of including specific “meals” in food. Chicken meal is a concentrated dry ingredient created by rendering (cooking). This highly digestible ingredient is very expensive. Meat meal, on the other hand, is generally a very cheap, low-quality ingredient that contains a variety of unspecified meat sources, including the 4D’s.

Tip # 4 – O ther red flags to avoid on a label Dogs don’t care what color their food is, but consumers seem to care. For that reason, many savvy dog food manufacturers utilize artificial colors like Yellow 5, Red 40, Yellow 6 and Blue 2. Just say no to artificially-colored kibble. Dogs certainly don’t need sugar (sorbitol and cane molasses are forms of sugar often found on pet food labels) but junk food manufacturers add these cheap ingredients to make the food more palatable. I personally think a better, albeit more expensive option, would be to add carnivore-appropriate ingredients like MEAT! Preservatives such as ethoxyquin, BHA or BHT have been linked to serious health issues in some studies. Look for more natural preservatives like Vitamin E or Rosemary. Dog food was an early form of recycling The mainstream pet food industry has done a wonderful job of recycling. Leftovers from the human food industry are recycled into low-quality dog food, providing us with a cheap way to feed our pets. Dogs can, and have, survived on this type of food for years, but are they thriving? Are they as healthy as they can be? Run, don’t walk to your nearest pet boutique You are what you eat. How many times have we repeated this in our heads when we’re trying to make better food choices for ourselves? This mantra has so much more significance when we’re feeding the same food to our dogs day after day. If you’re still confused about pet food labels, don’t hesitate to ask your local pet boutique for help in deciphering them.

The Virginia Dog c Fall 2010 37

[Pets in the Workplace] New office mates can’t perform basic job functions, but they still help out in many ways

38 Fall 2010 c The Virginia Dog

[Pets in the Workplace]

by Hillary J. Collyer, Esq.

June 25, 2010, was Take Your Dog to Work Day. The annual event, which was first celebrated in 1999, was created by Pet Sitters International in order to promote pet adoption and encourage businesses to consider allowing pets at work. According to the U.S. Humane Society, there are approximately 65 million dogs in 39 percent of U.S. households. With such a high number of furry friends in our homes, it’s not surprising that taking our dogs to work has become a growing national trend. According to a 2006 survey conducted by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA), nearly one in five U.S. companies allow pets at work.

Benefits of Allowing Dogs in the Workplace Dog-friendly policies can improve staff morale and camaraderie as well as encourage employees to work longer hours (since they don’t have to rush home to let their dogs out at the end of the day). Also, a company with a dog-friendly policy might be more attractive to a dog lover. The APPMA survey indicated that having pets in the workplace offers a number of benefits, such as creating a more productive work environment, lowering stress and anxiety, improving overall emotional and physical health, decreasing employee absenteeism, and making employees more willing to work overtime. In particular, the APPMA survey found that:

96%

f companies surveyed said pets created o positive work relations;

73%

f participating companies reported that o having pets in the office created a more productive work environment;

58%

of employees stayed late with pets in the office

27%

f participating companies o decreased rate of absenteeism

100%

had

Decreased stress levels can lead to happier, healthier, more productive employees. A dog-friendly policy is an inexpensive benefit that employers can provide to employees. Also, at a time when there is an increased emphasis on balancing work and life issues, establishing a dog-friendly policy is one way for employers to help employees maintain a healthy work-life balance. Small to medium businesses, particularly technology firms and creative agencies, have been the most receptive to allowing dogs at work. This is due in part to the fact that the fewer employees a company has, the easier it is to reach consensus on an appropriate workplace policy. Issues can, however, arise in connection with allowing employees to bring their dogs to work. The most common complaint against allowing dogs in the workplace is allergies. Although this is not an area presently fraught with litigation, employers who adopt dog-friendly policies should be mindful of potential actions by employees with allergies. In one Pennsylvania case, an employee sued her employer under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), alleging that the employer failed to accommodate her allergies. The place of employment was an assisted-living facility which housed two dogs and several cats during the employee’s employment. The court dismissed the employee’s action, concluding that the employee’s allergy to cats and dogs did not qualify as a disability under the ADA. The court ruled there was no evidence that the employee’s physical reaction to the animals was so debilitating that it limited any major life activity and that the employee’s use of an inhaler and injections decreased any limitation allergies placed on her breathing. Reprinted with permission from Virginia Employment Law Letter www.HRhero.com/vaemp.shtml © Copyright 2010 M. Lee Smith Publishers LLC

f the participating companies agree o that having pets in the workplace relaxes employees.

The Virginia Dog c Fall 2010 39

Training

[What you allow is what you teach]

by Tom Lacy, Dog Obedience Instructor

ave you been greeted by a cute, over-zealous dog that wouldn’t stop jumping on you while the owner stood by helpless? Well, the Dog Lovers Obedience School (DLOS) believes that if you allow your dog to jump up on people without preventing it from doing so, you are re-enforcing this unwelcome behavior. How can this not-so-cute scene be prevented? Apply this basic advice: Prevention is better than cure. With good prevention exercises, jumping on people will become a behavior of the past. To do this, you need to teach your dog a good, reliable sit-stay. For example, DLOS employs traditional training methods without food and clicker incentives for the basic commands: sit, down, stand, come, heel and stay. Properly-fitted training equipment does not include any form of choker-chain, pronged collars or extend-a-leashes. Instead, use a flat nylon buckle collar with a quick-snap release and a six-foot detachable leash for safer handling control. Sit-stay is a primary command for making the family pet a good canine citizen. Thus, most other commands work off of a sit-stay. Dogs learn quickly when a word and action are applied simultaneously—whenever possible.

Follow these steps to perfect a good, steady and reliable sit-stay:

1 Adjust the collar to fit snugly around the dog’s neck. 2 Attach the leash to the collar. 3 Place your right thumb through the loop of the leash,

fold excess leash in loops inside your right hand—not around your hand.

Place your left thumb under the leash close to the collar. Wrap your fingers around the leash so you see the back of your left hand.

he dog should be on your left, facing the same T direction you are facing.

Simultaneously, keep your left elbow at your left side, bend the left elbow, raising your left hand over the dog’s head saying, “Sit” one time. Even if you have to struggle momentarily to get the dog to sit, you only want them to hear the command one time.

Pet your dog and verbally praise him as he stays sitting.

40 Fall 2010 c The Virginia Dog

Consistency and repetition train a dog. Say the same thing the same way every time—no variance. There is more than one way to train a dog to sit, but there is no need to teach two ways. Hence, if a family member does the sit-stay the same way. the dog will learn more quickly. In the early phase of training, repeat this several times until the dog begins to anticipate your moves. Then introduce distractions, such as people wanting to pet your dog. Their petting is the dog’s reward. Through the years, we have proven that dogs who are taught this way tend to sit automatically, so as to be petted, when strangers approach. Remember: What you allow is what you teach!

[Time for School]

Training

by Pat Lacy, Dog Obedience Instructor

hink about kids getting ready for kindergarten and first grade: Lots of fun and learning experiences are about to begin. They will be learning their ABCs and numbers and a new set of rules to live by away from home. They will be meeting their teachers and learning to trust him or her as new authority figures. Kids must learn to put letters together to make words, learn the meanings of the words, and then learn how to put the words together to make a sentence. Later, they learn how to put these sentences into paragraphs and how to use punctuation. Naturally, this is the necessary formula to learn to read. These basic skills are needed before a child can go to the library and read a book for pleasure, or do a report on the computer. This also helps them to learn how to follow instructions at home, in class or later on a job. These same skills are important in training the family dog. They need to learn what the words mean, the position of the command, and the length of time required for the command. For example, telling your dog “down”—showing him that position and keeping him there until you release him. And always offer praise when your dog follows the command correctly. It is also important to understand that the words are like classes in school for a child. “Sit” is like Math, “Down” is like Science, and “Come” is like English. If your child turns in their

math paper to their English teacher, they probably will not get a good grade. You need to require that your dog “sit” if that is the command you gave—and not accept any other position. Simply place them back in the position if they move, and praise them when they are in the right position and place. Your dog needs to learn what you want him to do, where he should be, and for how long. Your dog is also learning to trust you to mean what you say. It is important for the pets’ family members to be consistent and use the same words with the same meanings. For example, saying “off” for jumping on people or furniture and “down” for lying down. If the entire family works with the dog’s training, then the dog should mind everyone, and this is safer for the family members and for the dog. Just as it is important for the young child to go to school for learning and socialization, it is likewise important for the young puppy to start early. Dogs are learning every day and you want to be sure that they are learning the right life skills that might be needed in their lifetime. The training should be practical and help your dog to fit into your lifestyle. With a well-trained dog, you should be able to enjoy having guests, traveling, taking a walk, and eating your meals in peace.

The Virginia Dog c Fall 2010 41

Safety

[What Animal Owners should know about Internet Pharmacies]

With the recent emergence of Internet pharmacies, many pet owners have questions regarding their safety and credibility. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) appreciates the rising cost of health care for pets as well as humans, but cautions pet owners to be aware of the risks that may be involved. Frequently-asked questions

Q A

: A friend told me about an Internet site that sells drugs for pets, and it’s cheaper than I pay at my veterinarian. Why shouldn’t I order my pet’s drugs over the Internet?

: Finding a “deal” makes you feel great...like you’ve outsmarted the system. But it’s only a great “deal” if you’re also receiving a quality product. Without quality, lower prices can prove to be a false savings. And sometimes the prices are not lower.

42 Fall 2010 c The Virginia Dog

Q A Q A

: Internet pharmacies sound like a good deal. But some people are against buying drugs from them. Why?

: A number of problems have been reported, such as sales of pet medications without valid prescriptions. These drugs could pose a health threat to pets, and we’re concerned about the welfare of these animals. : Why can’t I get a prescription from just any veterinarian?

: For the same reason you can’t walk into any doctor’s office that’s listed in the telephone directory and ask for a prescription for yourself. Because it’s illegal, not to mention unethical, for a veterinarian to authorize a prescription without a valid “veterinarian-

Safety

Q A

: Well then, how can I find an Internet pharmacy that’s credible?

: We haven’t found a fool-proof way to assure a “good” pharmacy. That’s why the AVMA acknowledges a program called “Vet-VIPPS,” a voluntary certification program created by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. The Vet-VIPPS seal of approval identifies those online pharmacies that are, according to NABP, appropriately licensed, are legitimately operating via the Internet, and that have successfully completed a rigorous criteria review and inspection. If you do experience problems, you should report the pharmacy to the Boards of Pharmacy in your state and the pharmacy’s state.

Q A Q A Q A

: Can my veterinarian tell me if the Internet pharmacy I’m using complies with regulations designed to protect me?

: No. Veterinarians cannot ensure compliance nor are they obligated to do so.

client-patient relationship.” In order for you to get a legal prescription, you must be a “patient of record.”

Q A Q A

: Can I buy my pet’s drugs from a Canadian Internet pharmacy?

: No. The importation and use of drugs not approved by the FDA is illegal.

: I found an Internet pharmacy that says I don’t need a prescription. Do I?

: It is illegal and unethical for a pharmacy to send prescription drugs for animals without a valid prescription obtained from your veterinarian.

: If I’m still thinking about buying my pet’s medications over the Internet, what should I do?

: Please be careful. Insist on the same quality that you would expect from your veterinary clinic or from your neighborhood pharmacy. Your pet deserves nothing less. : What else can I do?

: Talk to your veterinarian. He or she wants to offer both convenience and good will, and is likely to offer you some assurance about the legitimacy and safety of his/her medication.

The Virginia Dog c Fall 2010 43

s] [ event

There are some t hings

in life t hat seem t o

“follow as t he day t he night .”

The Virginia Dog c Fall 2010 47

In 1975, Solid Gold introduced the first natural dog food in to the US. Holistic does not mean natural or organic. Holistic is the belief that the mind, body, and spirit work together as a whole. Holistic is a philosophy of life. For example, all oriental dogs, dogs from Ireland and Scotland, and water dogs such as labs and poodles were fed a fish based diet and sea vegetation, similar to our Solid Gold SeaMeal, for hundreds of years. Fish can be an integral part of a dog’s diet and contains high levels of omega fatty acids, vital for the immune system and skin and coat health. All Solid Gold dry dog and cat foods contain fish. White dogs can also benefit from fish based foods. Think of animals in the arctic; polar bears are white. American Eskimo dogs and Samoyeds are white. The Siberian Husky often has a white undercoat and blue eyes. This permits ultra-violet light to enter the body and support the hormone, enzyme, and immune systems. Other breeds have “holistic” considerations due to where the breed was originated. The Coton-de-Tuler was originally from Madagascar; The Havanese was originally from Cuba; the Bichon Frise was developed on the coast of France; the Maltese is from Malta. These small breed dogs do well on our Just a Wee Bit dry dog food and SeaMeal sea vegetation. Just a Wee Bit contains a high level of fish and SeaMeal which is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals originating from sea vegetation. Just a Wee Bit is specially made for small breed dogs with increased protein and fat as well as a small kibble. Small breed dogs tend to have faster metabolisms than large breeds and do better with a more nutrient dense food. Just a Wee Bit has a Westie on the bag. My Grandmother’s Westie wasn’t a terrier. She was a terrorist and always got her own way. Our dry food bags are hermetically sealed with a one way valve that allows air out but not in. Do not pour the food into a separate container. We recommend keeping Solid Gold dry foods in the original bag to protect against oxidation of the fats. Now for a cute story: One afternoon, a lady heard a scratching at her door. She opened it to find an old dog that walked right in. He was well fed and seemed friendly. He walked through the living room, curled up in a corner and went to sleep. Later on, he scratched the door to be let out and disappeared. This routine went on for several days. Finally, the lady attached a note to his collar as he was leaving. The next day, a new note was on his collar. It read, “We have six very active children in our home. I guess the dog just needed a place to rest. Tomorrow, can I come to your house too?”

Solid Gold is the only dog food company that is a member of the Organic Trade Association, the American Nutraceutical Association, the Medicinal Food Association, Nutraceutical Foods Association and the Life Extension Association.

For a catalog or store near you call or email us at: (619) 258-7356 or (619) 258-1914 (M-F 10-5 PST) or E-mail us at sarah@solidgoldhealth.com or www.solidgoldhealth.com Solid Gold Health Products for Pets, the Holistic Animal Nutrition Center 1331 N. Cuyamaca El Cajon, CA 92020

MADE IN THE USA