The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog Fall 2016 edition

Volume 7•Issue 3

Fall 2016

Miracles Amid Tragedy My Dog is Stubborn Virginia State Parks for Pooches

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“Bindi” is seeking a forever home.

She is available for adoption through the SPCA of Anne Arundel County. (details on Page 46)

contents Volume 7

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Issue 3

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Miracle Traged s Amid y

My Dog is Stubb orn Virginia for Pooc State Parks hes

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Weekend Getaway:

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ollaboration between Primary C Care Veterinarian and Board Certified Veterinarian Cardiologist Leads to Longer, Healthier Life for Pets

Virginia State Parks for Pooches

Training:

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Health:

My Dog is so Stubborn! He Knows Better, He’s Just Hardheaded

On the Cover…

“Bindi” is available for adoption through the SPCA of Anne Arundel County.

See Page 46 for Details.

Giving Back:

42

Ask A Neurovet:

44

Ask Dr. Katy:

A Moo-ving Cow Tale: Cows Need Love and Rescuing, Too

with Dr. Lauren Talarico

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“Bindi”

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is She is ava seeking a forever ilable for home. adoptio the SPC n A of An ne Arunde through l County. (details on Page 46)

Photo by: Lori Gross, Red Leash Pet Photography, www.redleash.com

features 29

mall Animals Need S Care and Love, Too!

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Un-break My Heart

A Bright, New World-Enriching the Lives of Hearing Impaired Dogs

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Volume 7•Issue 3

Fall 2016

departments

22

Fall 2016

special feature 15

Miracles Amid Tragedy

With Dr. Katy Nelson

46 Seeking A Forever Home

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

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contributors Katie Newbold, LVT, CVPM

Stephanie Clarke As a writer and editor who resides in Clermont, Florida, with over twelve years of experience within the writing and editing industry, Stephanie has had the opportunity to contribute to a multitude of online blogs and publications. Originally a writer within the field of mental health stemming from her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, she has expanded to various subjects of interest over the years. Stephanie also provides ghostwriting and editing to other authors who require her services.

Krisi Erwin, DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVPP Dr. Erwin, a life-long Loudoun County native, owns a house call practice called Wholistic Paws Veterinary Services that focuses on offering in-home acupuncture, rehabilitation, pet hospice, and euthanasia for her clients. Dr. Erwin is a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist and a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist.

Gabrielle Keller Gabrielle Keller, Maryland native, spent over twenty years in Los Angeles, writing and working and in the entertainment industry. While there, she lived in apartments without a dog.

Now she lives and writes on the family horse farm with two wonderful Labrador Retrievers. She loves sports, especially baseball and ice hockey.

Bonnie Lefbom, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology) Dr. Bonnie Lefbom is passionate about cardiology for pets.

Her vast experience allows her to remain focused on the emotional and financial needs of owners while achieving optimal treatment for each pet. Dr. Lefbom’s home life is joy-filled with 3 teenagers, 2 spoiled dogs, and 1 very friendly cat.

Laurie Luck, M.A., KPA CTP Dog lover and professional trainer, Laurie knows the joy that dogs bring to our lives. Smart Dog University specializes in dog-friendly, positive training. From pups to dogs, Laurie makes training fun for both ends of the leash!

Katie Newbold began her career in veterinary medicine in 1993 serving a small animal practice outside Washington DC. She gained experience working as a veterinary technician, team leader and supervisor in general practice as well as emergency, internal medicine and cardiology. In 2001 Katie began her current occupation with CVCA - Cardiac Care for Pets as a licensed veterinary technician.

Over the years she became involved in every aspect of the management processes and was promoted to practice manager in July of 2005. Katie earned her credentials as Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) via the VHMA in October of 2008 and currently serves as CVCA’s CEO.

Lauren R. Talarico, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology/Neurosurgery) Dr. Talarico is a board certified neurosurgeon at VCA SouthPaws in Fairfax, VA. She graduated with honors from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, completed an internship at the University of Georgia and neurosurgical residency at the Cornell University Hospital for Animals. Dr. Talarico conducts research projects involving Chiari-like malformations through the pediatric neurosurgery team at Children’s National Hospital in DC. She has also been published in several veterinary journals and textbooks. Dr. Talarico specializes in brain and spinal surgery, reconstruction procedures and treatment of medical neurologic diseases.

Gretchen Verheggen, DVM Dr. Gretchen Verheggen is a veterinarian at The Small Animal Clinic at Piedmont Equine in The Plains, VA. As a mixed veterinarian, Gretchen brings high quality medicine to all her four-legged furry patients, large and small. Aside from her veterinary career, Gretchen is a kite-flying enthusiast, amateur songwriter, and aspiring polyglot.

Ginger Warder Ginger Warder, the author of Fido’s Virginia and Fido’s Florida, is a member of the Society of American Travel Writers, specializing in luxury travel and travel with pets. Her current canine research assistants are her German Shepherd, Tipsy, and her Daschund, Max.

Katy Nelson, DVM Dr. Katy Nelson is a veterinarian and the host of “The Pet Show with Dr. Katy” on Washington DC’s News Channel 8 - the show airs at 11am on Saturday mornings. An ardent advocate for pet rescue, Dr. Nelson works with numerous local and national rescue organizations to promote pet adoption. Dr. Nelson is known as “Dr. Pawz” on Washington DC’s All News Radio Station WTOP live on air every two weeks. You can also catch her on her online radio show called “Pawsitive Talk with Dr. Katy” on the all positive radio network HealthyLife.

Net. Dr. Nelson is a Certified Veterinary Journalist (CVJ), accredited by the American Society of Veterinary Journalists (ASVJ). Catch her every Friday morning on News Channel 8’s “Let’s Talk Live,” and you can even find her reporting on animal health topics every week on WJLA ABC7 News. A prolific writer, you can follow her on The Pet Show’s blog www.wjla.com/blogs/ the-pet-show and find back episodes of The Pet Show there, as well.

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The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

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{ department }

Publisher/Editor in Chief Pamela Wahl Director of Operations Gene Wahl

{ publishers note }

a note

from our publisher

Art Director Kim Dow, Kalico Design Graphic Designer Jen Tyler, Kalico Design Social Media Cami O’Connell Kristin Carlson Senior Editor Kimberly Holmes Photographer Lori Gross Red Leash Pet Photography Copy Editor Matt Neufeld Advertising Director Pamela Wahl Production Coordinator Diane Weller Business Manager Cathy Wahl Contributing Writers: Stephanie Clarke Krisi Erwin, DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVPP Gabrielle Keller Bonnie Lefbom, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology) Laurie Luck, M.A., KPA-CTP Katy Nelson, DVM Katie Newbold, LVT, CVPM Lauren Talarico, DVM, DACVIM Gretchen Verheggen, DVM Ginger Warder The Virginia-Maryland-Washington, DC Dog Magazine 200 West Main Street Middletown, MD 21769 Tel: (301) 514-2804 Fax: (301) 694-9799 www.thevamddcdog.com bark@vamddcdog.com ©2016 No part of this publication may be reproduced without expressed written permission of the publisher.

No part may be transmitted in any form by any means, including electronic, mechanical photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission from the publisher. Publisher accepts no liability for solicited or unsolicited materials that are damaged or lost. Views expressed by editorial contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher.

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“Dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen.” – Orhan Pamuk Where did the time go? It seems like just yesterday that we were preparing our summer edition. I don’t know about you, but my dogs and I are ready for a break from what felt like a continuous blast of heat and humidity.

Speaking of bad weather, we should consider ourselves lucky after witnessing firsthand the devastation of the West Virginia flood. This edition of our publication includes a detailed article concerning the rescue and humane organizations that were directly affected by the flood.

After viewing photo after photo of the destruction that this horrible storm brought to fortyfour counties out of fifty-five, we decided to help. Together with Boggs Environmental Consultants, Inc., of Middletown, Md., Pilots N Paws, a nationwide non-profit organization, we embarked on a pet donation campaign in effort to assist the four-legged victims of the West Virginia flood and the associated non-profit rescue and humane organizations.

What started as a goal to locally fill a standard-size pull behind utility trailer, quickly exploded into the need to obtain not one, but two large transport trucks for delivery of the donated items.

We are humbled by the outpouring of donations that we received from individuals, businesses, and non-profit animal organizations. As a result, we were able to provide a substantial amount of items to a total of three separate rescue and humane organizations located within three of the hardest hit counties in West Virginia.

A huge thank you to those of our readers of whom so generously donated to our cause.

Happy Fall!

Pamela Wahl Owner/Publisher The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog Magazine www.vamddcdog.com bark@vamddcdog.com

The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

The mission of DC Actors for Animals is to help animals in the Washington DC metropolitan area through adoption, advocacy, and education.

DC Actors for Animals presents Beltway Barks. Our cornerstone event, Beltway Barks, is an annual adopt-athon featuring musical performances, local vendors, and presentations of adoptable animals from rescue groups throughout the area.

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VIRGINIA STATE PARKS FOR POOCHES

By Ginger Warder

Photos courtesy of Virginia Tourism Corporation

Enjoy a fall getaway at one of Virginia’s great state parks.

Paddling with Pets

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The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

{ weekend getaway }

If you didn’t make reservations last year for Shenandoah National Park or the Peaks of Otter, don’t despair. Virginia is blessed with an abundance of beautiful state parks—the park system is celebrating its 80th birthday this year—and all of the parks are pet friendly.

Many of the parks offer camping, RV sites and cabin rentals, as well as an array of recreational activities. You can explore forests, coastal marshes and meadows, hike, fish and kayak, and some parks even offer historical presentations and other cultural activities. In general, parks charge an additional nightly fee for pets (from $5 in campsites to $10 in cabins), but these vary in each park.

Here are a few of our favorites for a last-minute fall getaway:

Final Beach Escape at First Landing Located on Cape Henry in North Virginia Beach, First Landing State Park is the most visited park in the state. Virginia’s first settlers originally landed here, but after a skirmish with the local Native Americans, re-boarded their ships and headed to Jamestown. Designated a National Historic Landmark, First Landing is home to the oldest lighthouse in America, built in 1791. The 2,888-acre park offers swimming, hiking, biking, boating and fishing,as well as a wet lab, aquarium and historical exhibits. With more than 200 campsites and 20 cabins, there is plenty of room for the whole family and leashed pets are welcome on the 20 miles of hiking trails. The park also offers more than a mile of beachfront on the Chesapeake Bay.

Breaks Interstate Park: “The Grand Canyon of the South” This 4,500-acre park in Dickenson County is known for its unique rock formations and caves. Follow in the footsteps of Daniel Boone who discovered the passage through Pine Mountain that led to Kentucky and the Ohio Valley River Valley and gave the area its name of The Breaks. The 81-room lodge, cottages and lakefront log cabins are open year-round, although the restaurant and camp store close in the winter months. More than 130 campsites—including some with RV hook-ups—are available and recreational activities include hiking, biking, horseback riding and rafting.

Hungry Mother Fishing

Hungry Mother State Park: A Native American Legend According to local lore, Native Americans once raided several settlements along the New River and took captives, including Molly Marley and her young child. They escaped, but after days of wandering in the wilderness, Molly collapsed. Her child continued following the creek and finally found help, uttering the words “hungry mother”. Although Molly did not survive, today that mountain is called Molly’s Knob in her honor, and the stream is known as Hungry Mother Creek.

Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hungry Mother offers spectacular woodlands, as well as a sandy beach on the 108-acre lake, boat rentals, fishing and numerous hiking and biking trails. The log lodge, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), more than 80 campsites and 20 cabins—including a six-bedroom home—provide accommodations for groups of all sizes and the park offers a visitor center and gift shop.

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

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{ weekend getaway }

{

You can explore forests, coastal marshes and meadows, hike, fish and kayak, and some parks even offer historical presentations and other cultural activities.

10

The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

Breaks Geological Trail

Madison’s stretcher Pack Portable Emergency Pet Stretcher First Landing Beach

Douthat State Park: Bring Your Dog and Your Horse to the Allegheny Mountains Located near Clifton Forge, Douthat not only features fishing, hiking, swimming and a wide variety of boat rentals, but also offers miles of bridle trails and an equestrian campground with 14 covered horse stalls. On the National Register of Historic Places, Douthat offers several cabins—all pet friendly— and large family lodges, as well as campsites with RV hook-ups. Boat rentals are available through the end of October and overnight guests receive free boat launching privileges. Experienced hikers will love the climb up to Blue Suck Falls.

Richmond R & R: The Princess-Inspired Pocahontas State Park Located 20 miles from downtown Richmond, this park is named after the daughter of Chief Powhatan who, according to legend, saved the life of Capt.

John Smith. A variety of boat rentals including rowboats, kayaks, paddleboats and canoes are available for rental on the weekends and the park offers more than 80 miles of hiking, biking and horse trails. Although the Aquatic Center is closed in the fall and winter, visitors can enjoy boating and fishing in the park’s three lakes. Campsites offer electric and water hook-ups (no equestrian campsites) and restrooms with showers are centrally located throughout the campgrounds. The park is also home to the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum, featuring exhibits dedicated to the workers who helped build Virginia’s parks.

If You Go: www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparksbystate.htm www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/ www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/pets www.first-landing-state-park.org/ www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/douthat#general_information www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/pocahontas#general_information

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

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Explore Virginia with your favorite

four-legged travel companion!

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50/50 raffle, silent auction and gift bags.

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AVAILABLE WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD

{ health }

Collaboration Between Primary Care Veterinarian and Board Certified Veterinarian Cardiologist Leads to Longer, Healthier Life for Pets In most homes, pets are an important part of the family. During the past few decades, the issue of the evolving interest in the increased, prolonged health of pets has led to an increase in the scope and quality of care in veterinary medicine.

The demand for state-of-the-art medicine, specialized care, and 24-­hour emergency veterinary care access has revolutionized the extent to which society can ensure a longer, healthier life for pets.

Chesapeake Veterinary Cardiology Associates (CVCA) has published a study to determine the effect of the partnership between primary care veterinarians and in-person, board-certified veterinary cardiologists regarding the survival time of dogs after the onset of congestive heart failure (CHF).

CHF occurs when heart disease is so severe that the cardiovascular system is no longer able to maintain its functions.

The study was conducted by Bonnie Lefbom, DVM, DACVIM, cardiology, and Neal K. Peckens, DVM, DACVIM, cardiology, in 2016, on the impact of collaborative care on survival time for dogs with congestive heart failure and revenue for attending primary care veterinarians, in the Journal of American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA).

In this study, the medical records of canine patients suffering from congestive heart failure due to mitral valve disease were reviewed. The survival times of the patients who had been managed jointly by a primary care veterinarian and in-person veterinary cardiologist were compared to the patients whose owners had elected not to see a cardiologist. The patients who were cared for by the primary-care vet-

erinarian and cardiologist lived 74 percent longer than those who did not see a specialist.

As in human medicine, a board-certified veterinary specialist such as a cardiologist is someone who has devoted years of additional training and testing to become experts in a particular body system or field. This allows for more accurate diagnosis and proper intervention, which is especially critical with heart disease, which can go undetected in pets until advanced stages. Ongoing management of cardiac disease includes routine communication between the client, primary care veterinarian, and board-certified cardiologist, and that ensures the patient is receiving the best possible treatment plan to provide a long, happy life.

The relationship between the specialist and primary care practitioner, in veterinary medicine as in human medicine, is one of support and partnership in order to deliver optimal care and improve the survival times and quality of life of each patient.

Collaboration and communication between the specialist, primary care veterinarian and family are of high importance in veterinary medicine and ensures the best quality of life for our best friends.

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

By Bonnie Lefbom, DVM, DACVIM & Katie Newbold, LVT, CVPM Photo courtesy of CVCA

CVCA’s William Tyrell, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology) & Sarah Lehman, VMD Resident in Cardiology conducting an echocardiogram

CVCA

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MIRACLES AMID A TRAGEDY

Out of the tragic destruction and calamity from the debilitating West Virginia flood of 2016, pets are rescued, new homes and loving

By Pam Wahl owners are found, and a community responds to help Suddenly, with great, horrendous intensity and rage, the skies above West Virginia exploded and erupted on June 23, 2016, with a savage force and power literally unlike anything the region had seen in a thousand years—about ten inches of rain fell during a twelve to twenty-four-hour period—unleashing terrible calamity, disaster, tragedy and death upon the community—for humans and animals alike, resulting in twentythree human deaths and untold numbers of stranded, helpless animals, too. Forty-four of West Virginia’s fifty-five counties were declared a state of emergency by Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin.

Officials at the National Weather Service said the storm qualified as a 1,000-year event for parts of West Virginia—and the disaster was declared one of the deadliest floods in the history of West Virginia.

Dogs caught in floodwaters.

Note: They were rescued.

Photo courtesy of GHS

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

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Initially concerned about locating a new home for senior dog Brownie, especially given that Greenbrier Humane Society (GHS) already possessed many other animals available for adoption, and with the aftermath of the flood, GHS officials and staffers expected a significant decline in adoptions. They decided to send out a social media plea on the Susie’s Senior Dogs Facebook page, complete with Brownie’s story. Soon after that posting, GHS Animal Home Finder employee Amy Powers Rawson had an inbox full of adoption requests for Brownie.

In reviewing the adoption requests, one particular family stood out to Amy and the staff of GHS: a couple located in Indiana who owned another senior dog, a beagle/basset-mix, as well as a few cats.

One line contained within the e-mail caught Amy’s attention. The line stated, “While I appreciate the challenge it could be, Brownie would be spending her retirement as an indoor dog with couches and beds and cuddles whenever she may want.”

Within one week. Brownie was on her eight-hour journey to her new home in Indiana.

Since her adoption, Brownie’s new owners have provided updates.

Brownie (now known as Ginny) with her new owner

Dogs housed in makeshift shelter during the flood

Photo courtesy of GHS

Photo courtesy of NRHSI

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The latest update states, “She is an absolute doll!

We love her so much. She is gentle, smart, and loving. She only barks when it’s feeding time and I’m a little too slow for her!! She is so gentle to everyone she meets--doesn’t jump or bark. We have renamed her Miss Virginia, Ginny for short. She is starting to get the hang of her new name and her new routine.”

Another area that was hard hit by the flood is Fayetteville, WV, which is situated about fifty-nine miles from Greenbrier County.

Located in the small town of Fayetteville is the New River Humane Society, Inc., (NRHSI). This organization was not as lucky as GHS when it came to damage brought on by the flood. It should be noted that in order to enter NRHSI, you must drive over a wooden bridge.

The following are some excerpts provided to us from NRHSI volunteer Lori Ward on the June 23 flood, when the rains began: “My habit is to go to our local animal shelter every Thursday. I meet Anna Bennett there to take pictures of cats or kittens that have come to

The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

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the shelter and then help clean cages in the cat rooms. June 23 was not different…except it was raining a lot.”

enough carriers, we started moving all other cats to the top cages in the building. I helped do this also in the sick room.”

“As I came into the shelter earlier, I noticed that the water in the creek was high but I’ve been told it ‘does that’ but never floods. Anna mentioned to me that we should watch the creek and may need to leave early. She was in the process of sorting the paperwork and said she needed to go to the top building to find out about a particular cat. She said she would check the creek on her way up. When she came back she said we should go look.”

“The rain would pour one minute and then slack off the next. We all went up to the office and talked.

We were figuring we would be there for a while, if not overnight. We thought since we would be there a while, we would walk the dogs. Then I noticed Anna had gone down the hill to the cat building, so I thought I’d go down there and we could go ahead and help clean. Tera walked down with me to take pictures of the creek and as we came down the hill, the bridge actually washed away!”

“Water was beginning to come out of the banks of the creek creeping in the road, and touching the bottom of the bridge. We decided that maybe we should just try to make sure that all of the cats had food and water and then leave the shelter very soon.

I decided that I would go to the sick room and take care of the cats there. All during this it was pouring rain and we were all drenched.”

“Just as we started this process, Tera, the director, came in the cat building and said we should start crating up all of the cats and get them up to the dog building at the top of the hill. Finding it hard to find

“We figured that any first responders would be pretty busy and not able to get to us. But, as we were busying ourselves, Tera said she had gotten a call that they were coming to get us. We all walked down to the creek and saw that some Department of Highway employees were there. Someone had found out that there were some trees down on the road to the shelter and the workers were cutting down the trees.”

“One fireman came across carrying life jackets. He explained to us what they were going to do and what

Volunteers helping to move the animals to safety Photo courtesy of NRHSI

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

New River Humane Society Staff making their way across the washed out bridge Photo courtesy of NRHSI

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we needed to do. He then began taking volunteers to go first. After having a life jacket put on, we were told we would follow one fireman across the ladder and another fireman would walk behind us. There would be a safety rope from us to the firemen. We would walk out one person at a time between the two firemen. Each one of us walked across the ladder to the other side of the creek.�

It is important to note that all of the animals housed and cared for at NRHSI were unharmed by the flood. Some of the workers and volunteers were able to return the next day to care for the animals.

A few days after the flood, a temporary bridge was installed to provide for easier access to the facility and the animals housed within.

The county of Clay, WV, was also very hard hit by the flood. With a population of a little more than 9,000 residents, most of the homes were left completely uninhabitable.

Although the population of Clay County is minimal, an over-population of animals still exists. The Clay County Humane Association, a 501c3 organization

Marni of Clay County Humane Association Photo by VAMDDC Dog Magazine

directed by Marni Killingsworth, operates solely through donations.

As the floodwaters rose in Clay County, they literally wiped out many outdoor kennels housing dogs and puppies available for adoption.

Marni recounts the day that the creek—which is located not far from her home--started to rise.

She single-handedly ran outside to gather up the animals, placing some within her home, which is located on the property. Others were placed into makeshift areas on her small farm.

Several days after the floodwaters receded, volunteers, some of who came from hundreds of miles away, banned together to donate and rebuild kennels and fencing that was destroyed by the flood.

Greenbrier Humane, New River Humane and Clay County Humane Association continue to be overcrowded due to the displacement of animals as a result of the flood. Many wonderful animals are available for adoption at these locations. Despite the geographical distance between these shelters

Jill Lewis of Winchester, VA collected tons of items for our donation drive Photo by VAMDDC Dog Magazine

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The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

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to Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C., in most cases ground transport is available in order to place animals into foster or forever homes. Please visit the designated websites at the end of this article for more information about adoption and much-needed donations.

After seeing countless images and news articles regarding the West Virginia Flood, The VirginiaMaryland-Washington DC Dog Magazine, together with Boggs Environmental Consultants, Inc., and national non-profit organization Pilots N Paws, implemented a donation campaign to obtain muchneeded items for these shelters.

As a result, what had started out as a goal to fill a standard-size pull behind a utility trailer with donated items quickly exploded to include two large transport trucks necessary to house and transport the items.

bowls, cleaning supplies, medical supplies, and monetary donations.

For additional information:

A couple of weeks later, the staff of this Magazine provided ground transport to several dogs that were housed at the New River Humane Society prior to the flood. These animals were transported to no-kill rescue facilities within the Maryland area and in the panhandle of West Virginia until which time forever homes can be located.

Greenbrier Humane Society Greenbrierhumane.org 304.645.4775

The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog Magazine continues to promote dogs that are in need of foster and forever homes as a result of the West Virginia flood. We encourage you to visit the websites, and the related Facebook pages, of the organizations listed to the right in order to provide donations and a foster or forever home to the many animals that remain in need after this tragedy.

New River Humane Society, Inc. Fayettecounty.wv.gov 304.574.3682 Clay County Humane Association, Inc. cchumaneassocinc@ gmail.com 304.651.1364

On July 9, 2016, we set out on a trip to these affected counties to physically transport all of the donated items to three separate shelters. The items included pet food, crates, towels, blankets,

Preparing the trucks for our donation transport to WV

Mark Boggs, Owner of Boggs Environmental & Friend

Photo by VAMDDC Dog Magazine

Photo by VAMDDC Dog Magazine

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

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{ training }

“ My Dog is So Stubborn!” “ He Knows Better, He’s Just Hardheaded.”

By Laurie Luck, KPA-CTP

Pet owners often say that their dog is stubborn or hardheaded, but some pet training professionals believe that there is really no such thing as a stubborn or hardheaded dog. What owners perceive as being stubborn or hardheaded in a dog could indeed simply be something else altogether.

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The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

{ training }

What could owners mean, then, when they say their dog is stubborn?

That doesn’t mean he’s stubborn--that means the owner isn’t done training. Yes, this is squarely on the owner, not the dog.

Pet owners think their dog is stubborn, but what they’re really seeing is an untrained dog. Owners say things like “He knows I asked him to sit. He’s just being stubborn because visitors are here.”

Nope, he’s not being stubborn--he’s too distracted.

The environment is filled with lots more exciting things, and sitting is the last thing on the dog’s mind.

If it were that easy for the dog to sit; he’d go ahead and sit! It’s not like sitting is physically difficult or time consuming. It’s pretty darn easy for a dog to sit.

So why wouldn’t the dog sit? Not hardheadedness, not stubbornness--it’s lack of training. When training experts say lack of training, what they really mean is lack of training in the face of distractions. That’s usually what trips most dogs up, what gives them the label of stubborn and hardheaded.

For example, consider a dog named Nemo, who is a puller on walks. He likes to go now, go fast, and go far. Logically, it would be much easier and more pleasant for him to walk on a slack leash. A tight leash is a lot of work for the dog, as he’s constantly pulling, and it’s pretty uncomfortable--the leash is pushing against his trachea and neck muscles. Wouldn’t it be more comfortable for Nemo to slow down a bit and have a nice, enjoyable loose-leash walk? Well, yes, it probably would. So why, then, would Nemo still pull? Must be because he’s stubborn. Wrong! He’s excited. He’s over-threshold. He can’t wait to find out what scent the next blade of grass holds. He wants to know which dog peed on the neighbor’s mailbox. He can’t wait to add his own scent. In short, he’s awfully excited to be out on a walk.

{

That doesn’t mean he’s stubborn—that means the owner isn’t done training. Yes, this is squarely on the owner, not the dog.

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

23

{ training }

He’s far from stubborn or hardheaded. He’s flat out excited.

Plain and simple.

But it’s much easier for the owner to blame Nemo, rather than put the blame where it belongs: on the owner. In this case, the owner needs to spend more time teaching Nemo that a slack leash is the way to get to that next blade of grass or to the neighbor’s mailbox.

What should an owner do if he or she thinks they have a stubborn dog?

Teach the dog! If an owner has a dog that pulls on the leash, get some really good treats, such as chicken, steak or hot dogs, and cut them into pea-sized pieces. Then, follow these steps:

1 Take the clicker and these treats on the dog’s walk.

2 When the owner steps out the front door, wait for the dog to look. Don’t say anything to him, just wait.

3 The instant he looks in the owner’s direction, the owner should click and give the dog a goodie.

4 The owner should then take another few steps and stop. Wait for the dog to look in the direction of the owner then click and treat.

5 Next, the owner should take several steps and when the leash gets tight, she should stop. She should just wait for her dog to turn to look in her direction before she clicks, treats, and begins to walk again.

{

The key to success is to start where the dog notices the distraction, but isn’t consumed by it.

24

The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

The dog will get the message that the walk will continue when he looks at the owner. He’ll start to look at the owner a lot and she’ll then click and treat a lot. When the dog is looking at her, he’s probably not pulling on the leash. Voila— the owner just taught her dog to walk nicely on a leash!

Now it’s time to add in small distractions.

Make a list of the things that really interest the dog. For Nemo, the dog used as an example, it’s the smells that really draw him in. He loves to smell the ground, the bushes, the road. Those are Nemo’s distractions--another dog could really notice other dogs, or kids on bicycles, joggers, or other distractions.

The key to success is to start where the dog notices the distraction, but isn’t consumed by it.

If the owner needs to walk 100 yards away from the distraction, that’s okay. The owner is the teacher—the owner sets up the environment so the dog can succeed. A smart owner will click and treat every second that the dog doesn’t react to the distraction. If the dog has a problem with, for example, jumping on guests, the owner should put the dog on a leash before visitors arrive. Jumping is prevented by simply keeping the dog away from the guests and by asking the dog to sit.

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Make sure the dog is really good at sitting, though, without the distractions of the guests! When no one’s at the door, a smart owner will ask the dog to sit, then open the door. Can the dog sit even when the owner opens the door? If the dog can’t do it when no one’s there, he or she won’t be able to do it with actual guests on the front porch. The dog is not stubborn—the dog just doesn’t know how to do it.

THEDOGS.COM

The next time an owner is tempted to call their dog hardheaded or stubborn, the owner needs to ask: did I really teach the dog how to do the behavior? With distractions?

Thankfully, it’s easy to teach a dog how to deal with distractions; it just takes some practice, some good reinforcers, and a trusty clicker.

{

For more information: Laurie Luck, KPA-CTP Smart Dog University 240.394.1112 www.SmartDogUniversity.com

{

Magazine

A women’s lifestyle & professional magazine!

(Pick up the latest issue at participating locations!)

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

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25

{ health }

A Bright, New World-Enriching the Lives of Hearing Impaired Dogs

By Krisi Erwin, DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVPP

Conditions such as hearing and vision loss can greatly affect the quality of life of senior dogs, however, the fortunate news is that pets are adaptable. Pets can thrive very well, despite changes in their sensory abilities. Here are some tips on how to keep pets active and involved despite hearing loss:

Hard of Hearing or Easing into a New Way of Communicating?

Many dogs lose their hearing in their senior years.

Animal experts recommend having dogs checked by the family veterinarian if pet owners notice changes in a dog’s hearing. If tests confirm a hearing loss in the dog, then it’s time to start adapting to the new normal of living with a hearing-impaired pet.

Animals rely on their owners’ body language and physical movement more so than auditory input.

Older dogs tend to lose their hearing gradually and adjust to it along the way. It’s all about learning a new way of speaking with dogs and retraining the owner’s approach to dealing with things.

Hand signals are key tools to helping hearingimpaired dogs. If a dog can still hear, start incorporating signals in with general commands so the dog can start associating a known command with a new signal. Use treats liberally as rewards to help engage the dog’s attention and to reward proper behavior. Pet owners can use any hand signals they want to use, but they should make sure that they are unique so that the dog doesn’t get confused.

If pet owners are not sure about what hand signals to use, an American Sign Language Dictionary can give owners ideas. Establish signals for the dog’s name. Also establish signals for commands such as sit, stay, lay down, no, check in, watch, and come. Even if a dog goes completely deaf, pet owners may still consider saying the command

26

along with giving the hand signal, as the dog will take cues both from an owner’s facial expression and the hand signal itself.

As pet owners are working with and teaching their dog, they may need to also use some physical messages to get the dog’s attention. A light touch to the shoulders may help to get a dog’s attention to know it’s time to focus on the owner. Clapping or whistling at a pitch that a dog can still hear may also help to get their attention. Some families will also train their dog to a flashlight or a vibration collar (not a shock collar) to help get the dog’s attention and encourage the dog to come to his or her owner.

Changes on the Home Front?

Generally, dogs that go deaf gradually do not need a lot of modification of their home environment. Pet owners might consider using a hunting bell or Christmas bell on the collar so you can hear where he is. Make sure the bell isn’t too heavy or cumbersome on the collar.

Pet owners may need to handle some situations differently. For instance, a sleeping deaf dog might startle easily, leading to a bite. When waking a deaf dog, pet owners should avoid startling the dog. To wake the dog, pet owners can stomp on the floor nearby so the dog can feel the vibrations, put a treat in front of the dog’s nose so the smell can wake the dog up, or pet owners

The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

{ health }

can practice waking the dog by always touching the dog at the same part of the body, such as near the shoulders. When doing this, always reward the dog right away with a treat to help him or her acclimate to this new waking procedure.

Do not allow guests or children to approach or touch your sleeping, deaf dog. If the pet owner is leaving the room the dog is in, get the dog’s attention so the dog can see where the pet owner is going. If the dog is sleeping, the pet owner might wake the dog to keep him or her from becoming anxious if the dog wakes but cannot find the owner.

Generally, deaf dogs should always be in a fenced yard or on a leash with their owner. Pet owners might consider switching from a collar to a harness to help give the deaf dog more confidence. Make sure the dog’s tag states his name, all pertinent contact information, and that the dog is deaf. Make sure the dog is microchipped, and all information with the company is up to date in case the dog does wander off.

Families with a dog who is deaf or hard-of-hearing should work with a trainer. Training sessions may require a bit more mental effort from the dog, and the sessions may be tiring. Try to limit the sessions to about fifteen minutes at a time, and keep them positive with lots of treats. To find a trainer, consult the Association of Professional Dog Trainers at www.apdt.com/trainer-search, or the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers at www.ccpdt. org/dog-owners/certified-dog-trainer-directory.

For more information: Wholistic Paws Veterinary Services P.O. Box 713 Hamilton, VA 20159 571.438.0339 wecare@wholisticpaws.com www.wholisticpawsvet.com

Where Can Pet Owners Learn More?

If a dog is becoming deaf, it is important for dog owners to have resources. “Living with a Deaf Dog,”

by Susan Cope Becker, is a recommended book.

The Deaf Dog Education Action Fund, at www.deafdogs.org, has articles, books, and other resources that can help. There are other organizations that pet owners can find online, and there are several active Facebook sites dedicated to helping deaf dogs and their families.

If the dog is sleeping, the pet owner might wake the dog to keep him or her from becoming anxious if the dog wakes but cannot find the owner.

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

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{ feature }

Small Animals Need Care and Love, Too!

Piedmont Equine Practice in Virginia adds small-animal care clinic to their longtime equine practice

By Gretchen Verheggen, DVM Photos courtesy of The Small Animal Clinic at Piedmont Equine

Originally founded in 1996 by John Nolan and partners, the veterinarians and staff of The Piedmont Equine Practice, Inc., have been providing medical and surgical care for all equines, from elite sport-horses to backyard ponies, throughout the northern Virginia area for the past twenty years. The mission of Piedmont Equine has always been to make progressive veterinary medicine available to every horse owner—and, recently, this has been expanded to include companion animals!

Attached to the equine hospital, which is located in The Plains, Virginia, The Small Animal Clinic at Piedmont Equine opened its doors in May, 2016.

The opening of the small animal division has been a long time coming. Even early on, the partners of Piedmont Equine recognized the local need for a small animal general practice to provide high-quality, individually-tailored medicine.

And it wasn’t too much of a stretch for a group of veterinarians who were already providing cutting edge medical care in the equine world to branch out in this direction. But, the process of making the vision of a Piedmont small animal practice a reality took some time, starting about five years ago, with the acquisition of the land where the clinic now stands. Construction started in March, 2015, and was completed the following spring.

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

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{ feature }

The new clinic houses four exam rooms (one that is cat-specific), two dog wards, a cat ward and an isolation ward, a surgery suite with two heated-tables, digital radiology and ultrasound, a large treatment area for dentals and in-patient diagnostic procedures, as well as its own pharmacy.

But above and beyond the beautiful new building and state-of-the-art equipment, it is the unique practice culture of Piedmont that really sets this new small animal practice apart. Officials at the facility hope that the supportive, collaborative culture of the practice will make pet owners and their pets feel at home. The team of veterinary professionals includes three full-time veterinarians, with a staff of licensed veterinary technicians, assistants, and client service representatives. They have a goal of making thoughtful, individualized medical care available to every pet owner.

30

Located in The Plains, Virginia, The Piedmont Equine Practice provides medical care for horses in the surrounding counties of Fauquier, Culpeper, Rappahannock, Warren, Prince William, Fairfax, Loudoun, Frederick and Clarke, and some adjacent counties in Maryland and West Virginia. This area is known as Virginia Horse Country, and it is the center of foxhunting and three-day eventing in the United States, according to the clinic’s website. It is also home to an eclectic mix of show hunters, jumpers, dressage horses, flat and steeplechase race horses, and western performance horses.

Staff at the equine facility are on call around-theclock—twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, for emergencies.

The staff hopes that they can establish a similar long-time, intensive area of pet care at their Small Animal Clinic. At the Equine and Small Animal Clinic website, the staff offers scores of services for small

The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

{

{ feature }

Providing thoughtful care for dogs and cats from pediatrics to geriatrics, with an emphasis on preventative care with a goal of supporting a long, happy life!

animals—with a welcoming, positive approach! “We are a team of dedicated veterinary health professionals ready to do whatever it takes to keep your pets healthy and happy.” “We look forward to making your animal family a part of ours!...Here’s what we offer at The Small Animal Clinic at Piedmont Equine: Providing thoughtful care for dogs and cats from pediatrics to geriatrics, with an emphasis on preventative care with a goal of supporting a long, happy life!”

Here are the services that are offered at the Small Animal Clinic at Piedmont Equine: • Annual wellness and physical exams with time to discuss your pet’s diet, behavior, and health issues.

• State-of-the-art recombinant, non-adjuvanted, ultra-purified vaccines and protocols tailored for your pet.

• Diagnostic work-ups for illness or lameness issues with: • digital radiography • ultrasonography • in house/same-day laboratory testing • consultation with, referral to, or assessment by visiting board certified specialists • Elective surgeries and dental procedures during which our patients are supported with warming devices; administered intravenous fluids; and evaluated continuously with advanced anesthesia monitoring equipment by our licensed veterinary technicians

“Our goal is to offer caring, individualized service from our educated, experienced team of veterinary health professionals for the comfort of your pets and your family,” the facility officials say at their website.

The facility hopes to offer such future services as: • Client-only, self-serve dog washing • Client-only, after-hours phone consultation and urgent care • Regenerative medicine for lameness issues • Educational seminars • Medical boarding The Piedmont officials believe that as private practitioners, they are on the front lines of animal healthcare.

The staff sees patients in good health and in the earliest stages of disease. The staff strives to develop a rapport with owners who know their pets best, and they are committed to lifelong learning in medical disciplines, according to facility officials. The staff takes a team approach when individual boundaries are pushed. Officials at the facility said they hope that these qualities can allow them to practice true progressive and preventive medicine.

{ { For more information:

The Small Animal Clinic at Piedmont Equine 4122 Zulla Road, The Plains, Va. 540.364.4954 office@piedmontsmallanimal.com piedmontsmallanimal.com

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

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{ feature }

Un-break My Heart

By Gabrielle Keller Photos courtesy of Gabrielle Keller

My dog’s primary veterinarian, Scott Kellogg, DVM, who works at the McClellan Veterinary Clinic, was down on hands and knees, having just listened to Wiglaf’s heart and lungs. In June, 2014, we had a routine appointment for vaccination updates when I mentioned the grass allergy that had affected him during the prior summer, and Kellogg said he would just check his lungs quickly.

Gabrielle & Wiglaf

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The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

{ feature }

“How long has his heart been beating like this?” the doctor asked.

That started a yearlong process from diagnosis to groundbreaking treatment of my sweet chocolate Lab’s health troubles.

Three months earlier, around his first birthday, Wiglaf became a finicky eater. I shrugged it off, thinking he was not happy transitioning to adult dog food. I enticed him with new foods, each one being progressively healthier. But as time passed, he would occasionally eat and then, without fail, vomit. He went from a bright and happy guy to a sluggish, disinterested dog. Kellogg tested him for many causes of digestive problems and weight loss. Each test came back negative.

Sometimes he would rebound for a couple days and be my adorable, eager-to-please retriever again. But he never was very energetic. One trainer commented to me, “Wig sure doesn’t like to play fetch.” And he was susceptible to a variety of illnesses, like kennel cough. Why was his immune system unusually compromised? It was puzzling.

Until that appointment in June, when Kellogg listened to his heart and measured him at 400 beats per minute----about four times the normal rate.

An EKG was performed and the results were sent to the Chesapeake Veterinary Cardiology Associates (CVCA) facility in Leesburg, Virginia. Officials there said they wanted to see him the next morning. He was obviously not feeling well. Regretfully, I had to yell at him to get him into the car and, then, to get him to walk across the parking lot. There we met with Kacie Schmitt, DVM, DACVIM, and Bill Tyrrell, DVM, DACVIM. As Schmitt performed echocardiogram and ECG tests, I waited and, thinking the worst, wished someone had come with me.

Wig’s diagnosis was supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). I was a fan of medical shows from the 1990s, so I had heard the term, but couldn’t explain it. Tyrrell said the diltiazem that Kellogg had prescribed, along

with a new medicine called Sotalol, would help maintain a normal rhythm and return Wig to his routine activity. The medication would manage his condition, possibly indefinitely, if I were willing to obligate myself to administering pills three times a day for the rest of his life. However, because of Wig’s youth and otherwise good health, I might want to consider an ablation procedure being performed by Kathy Wright, a doctor in Cincinnati, Ohio. I heard what he was saying, but I couldn’t imagine putting Wig through surgery.

Schmitt explained Wig’s test results. They showed that the electrical impulses that naturally start in the sino atrial (SA) node of the heart that tell it to pump were moving southeasterly through his heart.

However, an unnecessary flap of tissue, called an accessory pathway, which connects the top atria to the bottom ventricles, was causing these impulses to circle back on themselves. So Wig’s heart would continuously beat without a lapse to recover and send higher-oxygenated blood throughout his body.

This condition is present in all breeds, but Labrador Retrievers seem to be more predisposed to it.

We left with prescriptions and an appointment to follow up at the Frederick location this time, with a 24-hour monitor test. The holster test was a revelation--leads are attached to his chest and to an iPhone with EKG software that was tucked inside a belt, and these recorded Wig. The results could then be e-mailed for further study. There was also a neoprene vest, which provides protection from becoming loose, being knocked, scratched or chewed up.

The drugs worked well but several times around the 90-day mark, his body would adjust and he would display the old symptoms. The doctors would tweak his dosage and Wig would be great again. During one of these low points, Wig seemed to be especially bothered--he wouldn’t drink, he avoided people and his breathing was labored. I was really worried and spent the night next to him, listening to him gasping.

Sadly, I held him and planned where in the yard I would bury him. Then I decided to have Dr. Schmitt contact Dr. Wright (DVM DACVIM).

“Wig sure doesn’t like to play fetch.” And he was susceptible to a variety of illnesses, like kennel cough. Why was his immune system unusually compromised? It was puzzling.

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

{

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{ feature }

She did, and she told me the whole process, including pre- and post-op tests, would cost $5,000. Our date was set for a Friday, on March 20, and we were to drop off Wig Thursday afternoon and pick him up Saturday morning. When Mom and I dropped off Wig and met Wright, she was entirely approachable, and she patiently answered our questions after explaining Wig’s procedure.

Several catheters with electrodes are introduced into large veins in the neck and groin. Placed inside different chambers of the heart, they map the conduction of electrical impulses. Wig’s accessory pathway tissue was conducting these impulses into a loop, and once the precise pathway was identified, energy was delivered through a special ablation catheter, destroying it. Thus, the electrical loop within the heart is broken and the rapid abnormal rhythm no longer occurs.

Wright’s facility is the only one in North America where this procedure is performed and, unfortunately, they only perform six to ten procedures a year.

There are many more dogs needing the ablation, but their owners do not have it done. Personally, I agonized about going through with it and my father, bless him, volunteered to help out.

One owner established a GoFundMe account for the procedure. Weighed against the cost, many owners must feel that relatively inexpensive drugs are their most viable option. I felt I owed Wig the very best outcome, a permanent solution with Wright. Her team is amazing and they have worked together for years on the procedure.

have veterinary cardiology residents and specialty interns who will come to experience the procedures and learn about them.”

I got the call to pick up Wiglaf. “Is he okay?” I asked nervously. “Oh my word, he’s up and walking around begging for food!” was the happy response. He was also medication- and SVT- free! Typically, recovery is very rapid, even in older dogs, although they might bounce back a little slower than the youngsters.

Shortly thereafter, we hit the road for Maryland and never looked back.

His follow-up checks with CVCA have been favorable.

Knowing Wig is healthy; I can look back on this time objectively and make several observations.

First, Veterinarians are cool, and they have cool toys!

Parents, if you have children who excel at sciences, please encourage them to pursue this field.

Secondly, pet parents, please get insurance for your pets. Looking at your perfect puppy or healthy older dog, it seems like you will never need it, and I hope you never do. But, trust my experience, insurance will come in handy.

And lastly, learning your dog suffers from SVT does not have to mean diminished quality of life for them.

Or a life of worry for you.

“The length and detailed nature of training, equipment and catheter expense, and rarity with which these procedures are performed make this so sub specialized in veterinary cardiology,” Wright said. “We

36

The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

Volume 7•Issue

1

Spring 2016

A serious publication for the serious dog owner A popular canine magazine not just designated for the Virginia, Maryland and Washington DC folks...but for canine owners everywhere.

Full of educational and enjoyable articles written by a team of highly regarded veterinarians, nutritionists, trainers and more.

The Crate is Gre at!

Heart Failure in Dogs

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iday 2015

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Each of our covers are dedicated to dogs in need of adoption.

{ giving back } “Vegan” & “Tofu”

A Moo-ving Cow Tale: Cows Need Love and Rescuing, Too!

By Stephanie Clarke Vegan, a now-lovable red cow who had a rough start in life—she inexpliPhotos courtesy of Kathy Durand

cably escaped from a truck bound for a slaughterhouse, eluded her captors and ended up roaming the countryside as a bonafide modern-day feral cow—somehow eventually found herself roaming around on the thirty-acre property that Kathy Durand and her husband Pete, of Round Hill, Va., had bought.

But when Kathy and Pete first encountered Vegan, the initial meeting was more contentious than lovable—Vegan, a wild cow, was unsure about these people, was mean, and she would drop her head and charge every time Kathy approached her. This relationship would need some work, Kathy realized.

However, Kathy, a longtime animal lover and animal rescuer who had worked primarily with dog and cat rescues, saw something compassionate, endearing and lovable in this poor, abandoned, lone cow, and Kathy was determined to give Vegan a new home.

After all, just like dogs and cats—or any other living creature on this planet—cows need love, care and forever homes, too!

Initially, rescuing Vegan wasn’t easy!

As noted, when Vegan first saw Kathy and Pete moving in on her adopted home, which was part of Kathy’s property, Vegan wasn’t too sure that she

38

wanted these human interlopers there. Originally, and specifically, Vegan had escaped from a neighboring farm when the owner sold a herd of cows to a slaughterhouse. Escaping from the truck, Vegan boldly and courageously lived on her own for eight months—until Kathy and Pete purchased their thirty-acre lot!

Now realizing she had to share, Vegan decided she wasn’t going to calmly accept her new partners. She pawed the ground and dropped her head whenever Kathy got near her, as noted. Some people—people obviously not as compassionate, dedicated and hard working as Kathy--wondered if Kathy should simply sell Vegan off to another slaughterhouse or farm. But Kathy never considered doing that. Instead, she enlisted the help of numerous friends and relatives with building a paddock to catch Vegan, and she had used every bit of training she had learned from working at rescues, especially utilizing valuable training, insight and education that she had received from Hilleary Bogley, the

The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

{ giving back }

founder of the Middleburg Humane Foundation, who has been a major inspiration to Kathy.

gets along perfectly with Kathy and her bovine friends Tofu, a mini-cow, and Hummus, a steer.

With advice from farmers, veterinarians, rescue experts, and others, Kathy was prepared to catch herself a cow.

Much like with Vegan, Kathy didn’t exactly plan on getting another cow when she caught Vegan, but after reading up on cows and learning about their behaviors, she discovered that cows are herd animals— they can get along on their own just fine, but they really do seek companions. Kathy did some searching and learned about a mini-cow that was being sold to a travelling petting zoo.

Again: this wasn’t easy. Vegan was certainly not out to make friends, and several friends of Kathy’s voiced their concerns that the cow would hurt Kathy. Once, Vegan even leaped over Kathy’s SUV to get away.

But Kathy was certain that Vegan wasn’t safe roaming the property on her own, especially not the parts that were near the roads. From the first time she saw

{

{

Vegan and Tofu first got to know each other through a fence before becoming close friends. In no time at

Later, a friend sent Kathy a picture of Hummus, along with the story of how the steer was about to be sold for meat. Kathy once again couldn’t resist, even though she actually had to buy Hummus by the pound!

Vegan, she knew the cow had a gentle soul, even if she wasn’t exactly showing that side of herself yet.

In the end, it took four months of trying to coax the stubborn, somewhat suspicious Vegan into a pen before Kathy finally had her. The days of sitting up late into the evening waiting for the cow to show up had finally paid off, however, and Vegan found herself trapped.

The day after that happened, Kathy woke up as excited as if it was Christmas morning. She knew she might not ever be able to touch Vegan, but knowing that the cow was safe was enough. Drawing again on her experiences helping abused dogs learn to trust, Kathy slowly made progress with Vegan. Today, she

all, it was as if they had known each other their entire lives. Kathy couldn’t have been happier, even though she’d just doubled the amount of work she had to do to keep her little cow family happy and healthy. Minicows, despite their name, require just as much work as a full-sized one!

L to R: Kathy & Vegan; Vegan, Tofu & Hummus

Later, a friend sent Kathy a picture of Hummus, along with the story of how the steer was about to be sold for meat. Kathy once again couldn’t resist, even though she actually had to buy Hummus by the pound! Just like Tofu, the steer quickly became a part of the family.

Today, the little herd has settled into a happy existence. Vegan acts as the protector, casting a wary eye at strangers. She won’t hesitate to charge at

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

39

{ giving back }

them, especially if she thinks they’re getting too close to Kathy! Hummus, on the other hand, loves to meet new people and make new friends. Tofu loves friends, too, but hers are the four-footed variety: she enjoys visits from Kathy’s dogs.

While adopting cows may not be for everyone, some people are interested in doing so. Kathy’s advice is that while they can be a huge amount of fun, it’s also important to remember that they aren’t dogs or cats.

They eat a lot of food—hers get a bale of hay every day, along with some vitamins and mineral feed—and there are some important vaccines they must get.

Cows require a large amount of space, too, and they aren’t pets that can be kept in your backyard. But Kathy goes on to say that they’re loving and incredibly smart, as well.

All of Kathy’s cows know their names and love snuggling with her.

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When asked if she would consider adding a fourth cow to the mix, Kathy said she’s sure it will happen eventually, but she doesn’t really plan on going out

L to R: Vegan & Kathy, an amazing bond!

40

in search of one. Instead, she’s content to wait until she comes across another cow in search of a home.

When she does, she’s more than happy to provide it with a safe, comfortable place to live.

So why is there a cow story in a dog magazine?!

Because the lesson is that people who truly love animals can extend that love to other critters—and, often, people with experience with owning, caring for, training and rescuing dogs and cats can utilize that experience and knowledge to help other animals, such as Kathy did with Vegan, Tofu and Hummus. All animals need care, love and rescuing, of course—and that includes wayward, rebel cows roaming the countryside.

Kathy started out working with animal rescues trying to find forever homes for dogs and cats, but she never thought she’d be the one adopting an animal, never mind that the animal wouldn’t be one that most people would consider a traditional pet. But now, Kathy and her small troupe of cows are as close as any pet and its owner.

Kathy started out working with animal rescues trying to find forever homes for dogs and cats, but she never thought she’d be the one adopting an animal, never mind that the animal wouldn’t be one that most people would consider a traditional pet.

The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

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In fact, it’s providing that tenderness and love that Kathy finds most rewarding about working with rescue animals. Watching them learn to trust again, to enjoy playing with people, is one of the things that brings a smile to her face. The other is watching happy families walking out the doors of the rescue with their newly adopted pet. There’s nothing like seeing a child’s eyes light up when they find the dog that’s meant for them and seeing the dog respond just as joyfully!

While Kathy only works on a voluntary basis with the Clarke County Shelter in Berryville, Va., now--she handles their adoption photographs--she’s still working to make the lives of animals better by serving as a board member for the Animal Rescue Fund (ARF). ARF is an all-volunteer organization that provides funding to animal rescues in Virginia. Every cent that ARF raises is given to the shelters, allowing them to provide better facilities for the rescue animals, feed them, provide them with the medication they need, and help spread the word about adopting dogs.

But today, now, back home, it’s her cows that give Kathy joy. Today, Kathy, Pete, Vegan, Tofu and Hummus live together in harmony, happy and safe and one big happy family. Just like dogs and cats and horses and other animals, cows need love, care, affection and a home, too. For this cow tale, there’s a moo-ving happy ending.

The Dodo.com was a reference for some of the information contained in this article.

Find Us On Facebook: www.facebook.com/tlcvets And Instagram: www.instagram.com/tlcvets

Kathy never planned on adopting cows exactly, but as a child, she was always trying to add to her family’s number of pets, as she only had one dog. Later, after adopting Penny from the Middleburg Humane Foundation, Kathy decided to start helping other animals in need. Penny came from an abusive background and required a lot of tenderness and love, something that opened Kathy’s eyes to what rescue animals go through.

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41

{ ask a neurovet }

Ask A Neurovet Dr. Lauren Talarico

By Lauren R. Talarico, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology/Neurosurgery) Photo Courtesy Dr. Lauren Talarico

Dear Dr. T, My 3 year old, mixed breed dog Ridley just began having seizures. He is a normal, very energetic dog between his seizures. What are the chances his seizures are caused by a brain tumor?

—Richard, Washington DC

Dear Richard and Ridley,

The most common cause of seizure activity in young dogs is a disease known as idiopathic epilepsy (IE). IE is best described as seizures that occur for no known reason.

It typically occurs in young dogs between the ages of 1-5 years old. The fact that Ridley is normal between his seizures is a hallmark of this disease and makes a brain tumor unlikely.

IE can be a progressive disease if it is left untreated, meaning Ridley’s seizure frequency and severity can become increased or more severe. IE is diagnosed based on a few key features including a normal neurologic examination, blood work, MRI and spinal tap. I recommend having Ridley examined by a veterinary neurologist and for him to begin treatment sooner rather than later to get his disease under control.

Dear Dr. T,

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Franklin, my 5-year-old dachshund, had surgery for a herniated disc 3 years ago. This week he has started holding his neck in a stiff position and yelps out in pain whenever we try to pick him up. Franklin won’t

Do you have questions for the Neurovet?

You can follow Dr. Lauren Talarico on Twitter @neurovet3 or contact her through her blog at www.theneurovet.com.

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The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

even bend his neck to eat or drink and we have to hand feed him. I thought his disc herniation problem was cured with his surgery 3 years ago. Do you have any advice as to what may be going on with him now?

—Helena, Reston VA

Dear Helena and Franklin,

I am so sorry to hear Franklin is having neck pain. The most common causes of neck pain in dogs, especially dachshunds, are intervertebral disc herniations. Dogs have intervertebral discs (IVDs) between each pair of vertebrae in the neck and back. The intervertebral disc is constructed similarly to a jelly donut and it acts as a cushion or shock absorber between the vertebrae. If the disc shifts out of its normal position or if the “jelly” squirts out of the center of the donut, it compresses the spinal cord that is located directly above the disc. Spinal cord compression can have several clinical manifestations ranging from severe pain and muscle stiffness, to difficulty walking to complete paralysis.

Dogs that have had one episode of an intervertebral disc herniation are at risk for a second episode in the future.

Surgical correction of an IVD herniation in the back does not decrease the chances of a second IVD herniation in a different region in the back and/or the neck.

I recommend that Franklin be evaluated by his veterinary neurologist as soon as possible. He will very likely need an MRI to help diagnose his underlying problem and determine the best treatment course to alleviate his neck pain.

Dear Dr. T, My dog was recently diagnosed with meningitis.

He is currently taking Prednisone and pain medications. I have another dog in the house and am very concerned he will develop meningitis as well. Can you give me some tips on how I can prevent this from happening?

—Nick, Springfield VA

Dear Nick,

In contrast to the infectious form of meningitis in humans, meningitis in dogs is most commonly autoimmune in origin. Autoimmune diseases are not contagious and can be thought of as you dog’s body is attacking or reacting negatively to itself. The actual name for your dog’s disease is steroid responsive meningitis arteritis (SRMA).

Fall 2016 | www.vamddcdog.com

43

{ ask dr. katy }

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With Katy Nelson, DVM

Dr. Katy

Dear Dr. Katy: I will be moving within the month. Unfortunately I am moving too far away from my current veterinarian to continue as a client. Therefore, I am in the process of searching for a new veterinarian within my new city. I have been with my current veterinarian since I adopted my dogs, which was eleven years ago. In your professional opinion, would it be out of the question to ask for an interview with a potential veterinarian/animal practice? And, if this is appropriate, what types of questions should I be asking?

—Kasey T, Aldie, VA

Dear Kasey,

current veterinarian if they have any recommendations for where you’re moving. If they do not, then a simple Internet search will yield multiple results, and just start calling around. If an office declines a tour, I wouldn’t recommend going there. Most hospitals are proud to show off their facilities! Many hospitals will charge a fee for a consultation, but a simple tour and meet and greet should be free.

Dear Dr. Katy: What are your thoughts about seeking a second and/or third opinion with regard to diagnosing my dog? Is this commonplace within the veterinarian industry?

—Jamie B, Falls Church, VA

It is absolutely appropriate to ask for a tour of the practice and to be introduced to potential veterinarians! I’d start by asking your

Dear Jamie,

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If your pet has a problem and you’re not finding a satisfactory solution, it is absolutely appropriate to seek additional advice. If the

Do you have questions for Dr. Katy?

You can follow her on Twitter @drkatynelson, on Facebook or send her an e-mail at bark@vamddcdog.com.

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The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

issue is complicated, consider asking for a referral to a specialist. Here in the District/ Maryland/Virginia area, we are very lucky to have a wide range of veterinary specialists who can do a detailed examination and recommend further diagnostics to help find the answer to your pet’s problem.

Dear Dr. Katy:

Keep Your Dog Kumfy this Winter

—Jim G, Columbia, MD

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When looking for any type of food (including treats) to feed to your pet, I always recommend to my clients to look for meat as the first ingredient. Try to find treats without preservatives like butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), tertbutyl hydroquinone (TBHQ), propyl gallate, and ethoxyquin. Instead, for dry treats, opt for products made with natural preservatives, such as tocopherols (vitamin E), citric acid (vitamin C), and rosemary extract. Lowglycemic index carbohydrates are preferable, so avoid products made with rice and potato, and instead opt for products made with pumpkin or vegetables like zucchini or squash. And finally, always go for low-cal when it comes to treats. Over 55% of dogs in the US are considered overweight or obese, so keep them slim and trim by only using a few treats when appropriate, and avoiding the ones that will make them pack on the pounds.

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Dear Jim,

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I am in the process of training my dog with the basic commands. I like to reward him with a treat when he responds in a positive manner. A couple of friends of mine asked what types of treats that I provide to my dog, and when I told them they both stated that the treats were of low quality and that I should not be providing them to him. What should I look for when providing treats to my dog? He is of average weight with no current medical issues.

45

{ seeking a forever home }

Seeking A

Forever Home

“Bindi”

Bindi came to the SPCA of Anne Arundel County from another shelter. Her back legs are paralyzed, but she doesn’t let that slow her down!

Breed/Mix:

Sheltie-Mix

Male/Female:

Female

Approximate Weight:

35 lbs.

Approximate Age:

5 months

Activeness: Medium level of activeness

Photo by Lori Gross Red Leash Pet Photography www.redleash.com

Good w/Other Dogs:

Yes

Good w/Children:

Yes

Housebroken:

Partially

Medical Issues:

Paralyzed in her Back Legs

Feeding Issues:

None

Special Needs:

Requires a wheelchair

Vaccinations:

Up-to-Date

Microchipped:

Yes

Fun Facts: Bindi loves using her wheelchair and adores being pushed in a stroller. Her favorite toys are stuffed animals, and she is definitely a lap dog!

SPCA of Anne Arundel County The SPCA of Anne Arundel County is a no-kill shelter located in Annapolis, MD devoted to finding loving and permanent homes for animals in need.

SPCA of Anne Arundel County 1815 Bay Ridge Avenue Annapolis, MD 21403 (410) 268-4388 info@aacspca.org

The mission of the SPCA shall be to serve as the leading private nonprofit organization within Anne Arundel County which exists to protect companion animals from acts of cruelty and neglect.

www.aacspca.org

46

The Virginia-Maryland-Washington DC Dog

your pet

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