Houston PetTalk May 2020 by houstonpettalk10

May 2020

CATS ARE COOL... FUR-REAL! Busting Cat Myths Summer Care Tips Feline Cancer Therapies Go Away Pesky Fleas

KITTY KAT

Don’t wait....

The most compassionate specialized care for senior pets over the age of 7!

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Senior Paws T O T HE B EST Y EARS Y ET

About Us

Our Services

Senior Paws (formally known as Last Wishes) is a specialized mobile veterinary care program staffed by credentialed professionals designed to help families meet the unique needs of senior and geriatric pets in the Greater Houston area.

• • • • • • • • • • •

Senior Paws aims to fill the growing need for improved client engagement and exceptional care. We exist to improve the health and quality of life for older pets while putting family values and preferences at the heart of important decisions. Pets and families enrolled in our compassionate program receive the support they’ve been looking for and experience greatly improved outcomes. Our expertise in case management allows us to work with other trusted medical professionals to provide the best total care for older companions.

Senior Paws Family Care Support Center 3036 Antoine Dr., Houston, TX 77092

713-452-0474

Senior/Geriatric Pet Health Consultations Pet Hospice & Palliative Care Pain Management Veterinary Acupuncture Class IV Therapeutic Laser Medical Pet Massage Senior Pet Grooming & Hygiene Care In-Home Euthanasia Environmentally Friendly Water-Based Cremation Pet Memorial Keepsakes Pet Loss/Grief Counseling - Group & Individual

Our DVMs Christie Cornelius, DVM CHPV Julia Spade, DVM CHPV CVMA Erica Sandberg, DVM CAETA-Cert. Elizabeth Rowlands, DVM CAETA-Cert. Laura Ron, DVM Emma Brawn, DVM

wecare@seniorpaws.vet www.seniorpaws.vet

Houston PetTalk Magazine

DOGGIE DAYCARE | OVERNIGHT SLEEPOVER | SPA TREATMENT

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3113 S. SHEPHERD DR. 77098

281.815.2871

Houston PetTalk Magazine

OUR PASSION IS

EMERGENCY MEDICINE

THE TRUSTED CHOICE Emergency Care Services Offered: • Trained doctors & veterinary assistants • Blood pressure monitoring • Cardiovascular monitoring & ECG • Emergency surgery • Emergency examinations • Advanced diagnostics • In-house labwork

• Oxygen therapy • Blood transfusions • Pain management • Traumatic wound care • Pulse oximetry • Digital radiography • Ultrasound, Endoscopy

EMERGENCY CARE 713-941-8460

Exit 35

Sam Houston Tollway

y f Fw

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Edgebrook Dr

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Gul

Mon-Thu 6:00 PM - 8:00 AM Fri 6:00 PM - Mon 8:00 AM 24 hours on Holidays

Landi n g lvd B

VCA Animal Emergency Hospital Southeast Calder Road

VCA ANIMAL EMERGENCY HOSPITAL SOUTHEAST

610

281-332-1678 1108 GULF FREEWAY S., #280 LEAGUE CITY, TX 77573 VCAcalderroad.com

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10 610

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10331 GULF FREEWAY HOUSTON, TX 77034 VCAemergencyse.com

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Management Services Provided by VCA Animal Hospitals. • Animal Healthcare of Texas, PC. - Rocky McKelvey, DVM - owner.

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

ON THE COVER

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL BOY! OUR COVER CAT IS NOT ONLY HANDSOME, HE IS ALSO AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION FROM HOUSTON HUMANE SOCIETY. WITH JUST A LITTLE ENCOURAGEMENT, "BOOTS" POSED BEAUTIFULLY FOR OUR COVER. LEARN MORE KITTY INFO IN OUR FEATURE STORY STARTING ON PAGE 26. COVER PHOTO: ALLISON MCPHAIL FOR EVIN THAYER STUDIOS.

HOUSTON PETTALK MAGAZINE 14781 Memorial Drive, Ste. 510, Houston, Texas 77079 281-556-6560 Art Director: ANDREW BURWELL

basic tenet I live by is an inspiring Japanese proverb: "Fall down seven times, stand up eight." Much of life is about persistence and not allowing obstacles to stop us. Yes, they may slow us down but we must use our inner strength, optimism, charity and faith to overcome hurdles. Without a doubt, the message of this proverb is worth taking heed as we face the fallout of this terrible pandemic. I want to first say that I hope your family, both human and animal, are healthy! At time of print, the virus situation was showing signs of light at the end of the tunnel but we are still on stay at home orders. The stay at home directive is designed to save lives which is the most important goal we face and must work to achieve, but it's no secret this directive has caused damage to businesses ranging from mild to catastrophic.... and that includes our PetTalk family of sponsors. Many of our sponsors take care of your beloved pets including health care, grooming, training, play and socializing, as well as caring for them while we work or travel. For many of these small businesses, it has been their life's dream to care for animals and they now face difficult choices financially or possibly losing their business. I can relate. PetTalk is my passion and I've spent 18 years working to make this publication valuable to the welfare of all animals through educating people - and I too face a financial threat. Very few individuals and businesses will be immune to some degree of adversity. If possible, I hope you can support our sponsors moving forward by shopping with them or using their services as it becomes safe and

permissible, which in turn will help us continue to bring you PetTalk for years to come! One thing we can all cheer about is the beauty of God's creatures, which come in so many shapes and sizes and they are equipped with amazing skills. One great example is the CAT! Felines, from domestic house cats to a lion roaming the Serengeti, are strikingly beautiful, athletic, graceful and resourceful. And speaking of beautiful, our cover cat, "Boots" is available for adoption. He is 6 yrs. old, social and at time of print, looking for a forever home. If you are interested, visit houstonhumane.org to inquire about him. Boots was lots of fun to meet and photograph as the cover for our annual CAT issue. Check out the myriad of information on numerous cat topics in our feature as well as some fun photos posted by our cat-loving readers on social media. Also in this issue, you'll find articles on Great Dane rescue, ideas for training your dog while we are in "stay home" mode, advances in laser therapy and more. Due to the Covid19 situation, we will not have Conservation Corner or Wild Abut Animals this issue but both columns will be back in June, focusing on cheetahs at the Houston Zoo. Closing my May editor note wouldn't be complete without giving a shout out to all MOMs. We celebrate Mother's Day this month in a show of appreciation for all the wonderful things mothers do for their offspring - both human and animal. We love ALL of the moms out there!

ÂŠ Copyright 2016. Reproduction or use without written permission of articles, editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited. Houston PetTalk does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Houston PetTalk does not endorse any specific product or service contained herein; we do encourage you to support our advertisers whenever possible. All photos ÂŠcopyright depositphotos unless otherwise stated.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

During our weekly editorial meeting where Dragon Lady and I decide what topics will be in the next issue (well, to be honest, DL decides and pretends that I have a say-so when we both know I don’t), she suggested we feature Pet Loss & Grief. While this is a subject we have featured before, I felt like in this time of a virus pandemic we should focus on something more pawsitive. Figuring the subject of morbidity was a Debbie Downer, I smugly noted that she should “let dead dogs lie." But as usual my humor didn’t faze her teflon-inspired face. “Henrietta, this is not a topic for levity”, she spatted. I know, I know…you feel compassion for me having to live with a fire-breathing monster but I try to always look on the bright side: it’s better than living with Kim Jong-un, Harvey Weinstein, Casey Anthony or a crazed Keto-diet fanatic. To make amends, I offered that we forego this subject as the feature story but rather I would write my column on this dreadfully depressing subject. On my first try, I came up with a sonnet that began, “As I lay lifeless on my bed, I’m trying to make a rhyme with the word dead”. “HENRIETTA!!!! I AM WARNING YOU.” Geez, it was just a joke. Ok, I suppose if I want to ever eat, shop or possibly even breathe again I better put something together that DL will find acceptable. So, after a few head scratches and a squirrel chasing recess, I settled on a

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fabulous idea: talk to cousin Hortense about her heavenly experience. A few years back, Hortense had a little “misfortune” and wound up dead…for a few minutes. If it had been up to cousin Harold, her brother, she would have stayed dead but that’s another story. If you recall from past musings that I’ve shared, cousin Hortense is, shall we say, prone to pretense. She is still the joke of the

town for walking into the Piggly Wiggly and asking for the “crudite isle” when shopping for vegetables. Back to the story. Hortense is quite coiffured, prim and proper when in public but apparently she’s not so reserved at home. She got a little frisky and decided to play the underwear game with her human dad when he was on the toilet. Essentially, her human wears tighty whities and when he is on the toilet, Hortense gets mischievous and grabs his underwear and pulls at them when they are down

around his ankles. Unable to get up and chase her to make her stop, he gets super red-faced mad which in turn just spurs Hortense on. Well, on a fateful night during one of Hortense’s escapades, apparently dad’s tighty whities were a bit threadbare and gave way to her intense grip. They ripped and Hortense went flying backwards and smashed into the shower wall, breaking the glass and her head. There she lay, dead with underwear hanging from her mouth. She was “dead” for a few minutes but revived by said human dad with CPR. During her death, Hortense experienced a little peak into what doggy heaven looks like. She was also so mortified by the way in which she “died” that she was determined to come back to life just so the gossip gals would not fall into fits of giggles every time her name was mentioned for eternity. So, you must be wondering what she saw beyond the pearly gates. First and foremost of interest to moi was that there were NO CATS in heaven! So now I know where HELL CATS come from! Next, dogs were sitting on couches everywhere, garbage cans were open season and squirrels were not very fast. Yes, it’s a lovely place! So to all my compadres out there, don’t fear the other side. It’s a party without human intervention, there are no leashes, the smell of bacon is EVERYWHERE and you can scratch anywhere you like anytime you want. P.S. Compadres: If you beat me there, save me a seat on the couch!

Illustration by Jim Tweedy, Colorized by Desiree Lonsway

Henrietta

THE VALUE OF “THE OTHER SIDE”

TRAIN, PLAY, SLEEP, REPEAT.

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WHERE IN THE WORLD IS PETTALK? HOUSTON "LOO"

While the "loo" is not quite like visiting the Louvre, it's still a fabulous place to look at cute animal pictures while practicing big boy behavior. Thanks to Lucas Garcia for showing us how important PetTalk can be when good reading material is in demand!

TEDDY BEAR HOSPITAL

Lots of Teddies in need of stitching were on hand at the weekly repair clinic offered by Dr. Jennifer Hennessey-Bresmeth, owner of Animal ER of Northwest Houston. Once all bears were stitched and ready to go, the group still had a few minutes to enjoy PetTalk!

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THE DISH ATTRIBUTED TO THE STAY HOME WORK SAFE ORDER

LARGE INFLUX OF WILD ANIMALS T he Houston SPCA’s Wildlife Center of Texas has already taken in 700 more wild animals so far this year than at this time last year, according to Executive Director, Sharon Schmalz who believes the increase is partly due to the County Judge’s Stay Home Work Safe order. “More people than usual are staying at home, enjoying their backyards and going on walks around the neighborhood, and as a result, more lives are being saved,” said Schmalz. Baby opossums, squirrels, great horned owls, and a river otter are among the animals being brought into their care. By this time last year, the Houston SPCA’s Wildlife Center of Texas took in 2,379 wild animals, and a total of 10,000 animals in 2019. The Houston SPCA’s Wildlife Center continues to provide lifesaving services during the pandemic and intakes 60-90 orphaned and injured wild animals each day. To support their efforts through donations, visit houstonspca.org.

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Houston PetTalk Magazine

THE DISH WELCOMING A NEW LIFE

THE HOUSTON ZOO WELCOMES BABY GIANT ANTEATER O

Photo By John Register

n March 31, Olive, a giant anteater at the Houston Zoo, gave birth to a baby giant anteater. Olive has been very attentive to the baby, carefully nursing and transporting the pup on her back. The baby will spend the first few weeks of life clinging to Olive and will likely hitch a ride on momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s back for almost 12 months. In the wild, giant anteaters face threats resulting from habitat loss and agricultural expansion. The Zooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s anteaters serve as ambassadors for their wild counterparts, helping zoo guests understand this unique species. The Houston Zoo is proud to support the Giant Armadillo Conservation Program, a group working to protect giant armadillos and anteaters in the wild.

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GRA

ESS

P. A

G ra . W .

RT UNITY

You can join our pack in a few ways:

We Need you

to join our pack

Raise awareness for the PAW Grant. Share it with your friends, family, and coworkers Donate to the PAW Grant In-person. Ask our client care team to round up your bill to the nearest dollar when checking out. SLVS24EC saw almost 20,000 new pets in 2019. If every pet owner rounded up to the nearest dollar, those pennies would have generated more than $10,000 On-line. You can donate to the PAW Grant through the bit.ly link, then join our online Facebook Group for PAWtners to get updates on when grants are released, what the PAW Grant is doing, and insider information to all of SLVS24EC

A pack is an extended family group and the great thing is, you get to choose your pack. When a pet is brought to SLVS24EC, we know it is one of the darkest days of that pet’s life and in the life of their family. When you choose SLVS24EC to help you at that time, you become part of our pack- our extended family group. Our goal is to get that pet well or to extend the time that pet feels well until it’s time to say goodbye. For all of our diagnostic capabilities, talented specialists and emergency doctors, advanced veterinary nurses and support staff, we cannot achieve wellness for pets on our own. Pet parents who come to SLVS24EC are good pet parents but there are times that the cost to achieve wellness is higher than they can afford. We offer payment plans through Scratch Pay and Care Credit, accept every single major credit or debit card, and take donations from family or friends over the phone to help cover the cost to achieve wellness. Sometimes, that’s still not enough and pet parents need additional help. Our dedicated team, tired of having their hands tied by these situations outside of their control, wanted to do more. They wanted to be a different kind of veterinary specialty and emergency hospital. That’s how the PAW (Packs Achieve Wellness) Grant was created, from our dedicated teams burning desire to do more- be more. But we can’t do it alone.

Join our pack and donate to the PAW Grant by going here:

THE DISH

EMANCIPET OPENS SECOND LOCATION A

fter 5 years in Houston, if there is one thing everyone at Emancipet has learned, it’s that the people of Houston LOVE their pets. From arriving early for spay/neuter surgery, to waiting in line for preventive care and vaccines, pet owners in this city have shown up day in and day out at Emancipet East End clinic on S. Wayside Drive to keep their pets healthy. To meet the demand, Emancipet recently opened its second Houston clinic, Emancipet Monroe Plaza, located at 8533 Gulf Freeway, 77017 (emancipet.org/houstonmonroe). With the generous support of Houston PetSet and PetSmart Charities, Emancipet partnered with DPR Construction to build a welcoming clinic with four exam rooms, an in-house pharmacy and lab, and a fully-equipped state-of-the-art surgical suite. In addition to the spay/neuter and wellness services currently being offered, low-cost dental and heartworm services will soon be available. Since opening in 2015, Emancipet Houston has provided over 100,000 services to Houston pets, performing more than 28,000 spay/neuter, 74,000 wellness visits, and 2,000 heartworm treatments. Once in full swing, the second location will DOUBLE Emancipet’s yearly impact. What does this mean for pets in Houston? It means reducing unplanned litters and shelter intake, preventing behavioral challenges that come with unaltered animals and, most importantly, increasing access to veterinary services for ALL pet owners. With your help, Emancipet is keeping pets healthy, happy, and at home, where they belong, with the families who love them.

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Photos provided by Emancipet

OVER 100,000 SERVICES PROVIDED TO HOUSTON PET FAMILIES

Come Board with Us!

24/7 Staff on Site…..24/7 Onsite Cameras 5 OFF LEASH walks a day * last walk 9pm – 10pm No additional charge for Meds, Hugs or Kisses Discounted PLAYCARE rates with Boarding Weekends and Holiday Pick-Ups (till 8:30pm) (we do not hold pets hostage as we know how badly they are missed)

PLAYCARE & BOARDING

3663 S Dairy Ashford (between Westpark & WestparkTollway) www.roversromphouse.com 832-328-5844

Houston PetTalk Magazine

UNLEASHED FUNDRAISER

ANIMEALS BRUNCH

uppy love and cat fever filled the air at Hotel Zaza in Houston’s Museum District as Brunch Chair M.A. Shute along with Honorary Chair Don A. Sanders hosted 200 guests who helped raise more than $112,000. The “On Broadway” themed brunch and pet fashion show benefited the AniMeals program that provides free pet food and vet care to more than 1,300 dogs and cats of Interfaith Ministries’ Meals on Wheels homebound seniors. A win for the animals and their loving parents!

Sharron Melton, Jennifer Roosth, Casey Curry

Tessa Trace, Denise Kellison, Annette Santamaria, Jennifer Briscoe

Freddie Cruz, "Zeke" & Casey Curry

Photos provided by Quy Tran

Nicole Geeo, Angelita Sampaio, Beatrice Zarco

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A MESSAGE FROM ADVERTISERS Messages From Our Sponsors

Regarding Policies and Services During The Covid-19 Pandemic Restrictions:

Bingle Vet is open daily with curbside and drop-off service. Be sure to visit binglevet. com for our savings and specials designed to help care for family pets during these difficult times. We are open and offering curbside pickup, in-store shopping, and we have recently added home delivery to zip codes: 77024, 77055, 77079, 77057, and 77056. We are also accepting grooming appointments. Learn more at carterspetmarket. com.

We are pleased to announce, after consultation with Harris County’s Judge Lina Hidalgo office, and healthcare professionals, we have reopened our grooming services. Grooming is by appointment only (281-693-3647) with specific drop off and pick up times that match your schedule. A masked and gloved employee will meet you at your car to receive/bring your dog for driveway drop off and pick up. Instructions on the groom and payment will be done over the telephone as our lobby will remain closed. We are really excited to begin seeing our friends again!

Rummy’s is open! Come swim with your dog! The stay at home order for Harris County allows parks to remain open - Rummy's is a private dog park with a private dog pool. Per the CDC: "There is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of pools." Rummy's water is from a well - not city water. Only 2 people & 3 dogs per household per session. Make your appointment now and come have some much needed FUN! Visit rummysbeachclub.com for details.

Our Midtown location only will be open starting April 27, following all required safety protocols. Visit us at houstondogdaycare.com for information on our services and to keep up to date on the opening of our Montrose location.

We are open to serve you during normal business hours, 7-7 Monday through Friday, and 9-5 on Saturday. To protect you and our staff, we have closed our lobby and are offering curbside service. We come to your car, retrieve your pet, and deliver food and prescription medications to you. We have added TeleVet, a telemedicine service available at the App Store and Google Play, to allow pets with a current doctor/patient relationship to address minor issues without having to leave home. Visit us online at kingslandvet.com.

Rover’s Romphouse is open and providing ALL Services while adhering to strict sanitary guidelines and social distancing! Reduced hours are 6:30am to 7pm on Weekdays and closed on Sat./Sun except for dayboarding and boarding pick-up/ drop-offs. Find more details at roversromphouse.com.

We are sensitive to the current climate due to COVID-19, and practice social distancing to ensure the safety and health of our clients and sitters. For more information, contact us at: 281-300-6712 or visit info@ lucygoopetsitting.com.

We are here with the same 24-hour care, from anywhere: Telemedicine and curbside service to keep you and your pets safe! Visit slvetspecialists.com for more details. Houston PetTalk Magazine

IS THERE ANYTHING CUTER THAN YOUR PET? OF COURSE NOT! WE AGREE, SO WE MAKE IT EASY FOR YOU TO PROVE IT...PLAY WITH US ON INSTAGRAM AND LOOK FOR OUR THEMED CONTESTS. YOU SHARE WITH US, WE SHARE WITH OUR READERS. EVERYBODY WINS!

#SHAREWITHUS! “TAILS” FROM THE QUARANTINED

1. @bailey_and_gracie_the_ tzus Gracie here bringing you some midweek cuteness...right now, it’s important to stay pawsitive so we hope that we can bring a smile to your face!

2.@ winterrosethefrenchie It’s been a long week 3. @mookie.bleu Quarantining Mood 4. @magster2the_rescue Stay home vibes #stayhome #bestspot#sunshine 5.@ duke_and_darla We miss car rides so much we are sleeping in the jeep tonight #doodlesofinstagram #texasdogsofinstagram #doodlesoftheworld #texasdoodles #byod #jeep #model #pink #pettalk #bigearsdontcare 6.@ elroy_the_bulldog Practicing social distancing from momma..

7.@ bernedood.beau I woke up like dis 8.@ kodathecanineyoda Happy National Doctor's Day to all the doctors who work hard every day, especially in today's world, to make sure we are all healthy! 9.@ libbygraceandmaggiemae No Mom....Wasn't me barking at everything that moves on the other side of the fence!!

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NEED A VET

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have felt cats rubbing their faces against mine and touching my cheek with claws carefully sheathed. These things, to me, are expressions of love.â&#x20AC;? James Herriot

Boots is available for adoption; See the Editor Letter for details.

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CATS ARE COOL... FUR-REAL! L

By Michelle Mantor and contributing writers

Opening photo of Boots by Allison McPhail for Evin Thayer Studios et’s face it...cats are cool! As the most popular pet in the United States (94 million pet cats to 78 million dogs), cats are natural hunters, agile jumpers and climbers plus they are self-reliant, intuitive, quiet, possess an excellent memory...and they are oh so clever! Over thousands of years, a new species of cat has evolved naturally making its home around people and becoming known as the domestic cat or scientifically known as "felis catus". Just ask any cat parent and they will tell you that cats make the perfect pet for many reasons. They are docile, can amuse themselves, are typically less expensive to care for than dogs, can live full time indoors making them ideal for apartments and high-rise living, they are not noise hazards to neighbors, and they can provide companionship or even entertainment with their humorous play antics. Cats definitely have an incredible resumé of skills and its no wonder so many households in America share space with feline pets. From the domestic cat to the impressive big cats that roam the jungles and African plains, appreciating their beauty and abilities is easy to do! For our annual cat issue, we asked our sponsors to share information and tips on anything cat. Enjoy your journey through our Cats Are Cool feature story!

The Scoop On Cats

You should scoop litter daily and clean the entire box weekly (empty, scrub, new litter). If you would rather play with your cat than clean, try a disposable litter box. Just throw it out with the litter! Many varieties are available online or at your favorite pet supply store.

Cats were first domesticated to help control rat and mouse populations. Today many cats still hold this duty, ironically including a large number of feral cats who are rumored to live at Disneyland! Look out Mickey...

Although many cats seem to love cow’s milk, they are in fact lactose intolerant. After kitten-hood, adult cats lose the enzyme lactase, which breaks down their mother’s milk. Drinking milk usually results in loose stools. Yuck!

Both cats and rats have kidneys that are efficient enough to allow them to drink seawater to rehydrate, unlike most species. Conversely, renal failure and urinary tract infections are some of the most common cat ailments.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

FLEAS

How To Be Rid Of These Pesky Critters By: Dr. Nancy Goble, Owner of Vet on Wheels

et’s talk about how to have a flea-free cat, house, and yard. With Houston’s climate you have three situations: your cat has had fleas, your cat now has fleas, or your cat will get fleas. If you see one flea on your cat, you have a flea problem because what you see on the cat is the tip of the iceberg. Fleas survive quite well in our environment. A flea comb will help you find a solitary flea or its excrement commonly called “flea dirt” which looks like tiny specks of black pepper usually found in the hair close to the skin. Because it is from your cat’s blood, when dissolved on a moistened, white tis-

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sue it will turn blood-brown or red within a minute or two. One must understand the life cycle of the flea to understand why they are superb at surviving. The cocoon stage is impossible to kill with chemicals. Different products for the cat, house or yard interrupt the life cycle at different stages. I’m all about safety. Cats don’t handle chemicals. Only use products on your cat, in the house, or on your yard that are known to be safe for cats. Bravecto drops applied on the neck kills female fleas BEFORE they lay an egg for an entire month thus breaking the flea life cycle. I use Revo-

lution on my kitty because it also prevents heartworms as well as being an intestinal wormer. Food grade diatomaceous earth will kill adult fleas because it dries out their exoskeleton. It’s great for killing fleas in the carpet, furniture, bedding, etc. Beneficial nematodes will kill fleas in the yard without killing earthworms and other vital microorganisms in the yard. These are just a few suggestions. Please consult your veterinarian for the best advice for your cat, house and yard.

Cats With Cancer

Helping Them Live A Good Quality of LIfe By: Dr. Melissa Parsons-Doherty, DACVIM ( Oncology), Pearland Animal Cancer & Referral Center

he majority of our feline cancer patients can have a good quality of life for the majority of time, even while on chemotherapy! However, should the cancer not respond to treatment, or if side effects do occur, then managing these is crucial. At Pearland Animal Cancer and Referral Center our mission is “Making life better. Longer”. We understand that the goal of pet parents is “quality over quantity”. The goals for cancer treatment are to maintain appetite and manage pain. By doing this we can minimize the impacts of cancer and chemotherapy treatment on cats. Nutrition is key to overall quality of life and survival as cats are often euthanized for weight loss and lack of appetite. Some points to consider to help your cat maintain his or her appetite: » Do not place medications in food » Do not have food available at all times. Offer small amount of food at a time. If your cat eats it, offer additional small amounts. If the food has been sitting a while, take it away and offer fresh food. » General guidelines for caloric needs for a cat: BW=body weight » Less than 2 kg = 70(BW in kg)0.67 » More than 2 kg = 70 + 30 (BW in kg) x 1.4 to 1.6 » Medicate your cat at times separate from mealtimes. Using techniques such as a “pill popper” or crushing any non-chemo medication and administering with water in a syringe can be helpful and prevent further food aversion if your cat has a decreased appetite. » Feed away from areas of activity or other pets. » Be prepared to offer a variety of foods with varying flavors and textures. Warming food can help. In addition, pain management is key for a cats overall quality of life and different types of pain require different medications (for example, bone vs. soft tissue pain). Early intervention prevents “wind up” and uncontrolled pain resulting in poor quality of life. According to the

American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), pain in cancer patients is widely overlooked and pain medication is indicated in any and all cancer patients. Signs of pain can be subtle in cats and include: » Lethargy, weakness, inability to rise, or hiding » Loss of appetite » Anxiousness, inability to settle » Elevated heart rate, dilated pupils » Licking or biting at an area, scratching, drooling, dropping food » PANTING is NEVER NORMAL in a cat and requires medical attention immediately

The overall goal is return cats to normal function, appetite, and behaviors such as activity, grooming, and play. A Quality of Life questionnaire is available to help you assess your cat on a weekly basis and frequent monitoring of weight can gauge your cats response to treatment for cancer. In many instances, when cats are diagnosed with cancer, anxiety arises from the unknown and lack of control of what is happening – discussing the problem with your veterinarian or asking for referral to an Oncologist is the first step in managing the disease, quality of life and prognosis of your cat.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

Friends in High Places

What Makes Our Cats Want to Climb and Sneak into Tight Places?

By: Dr. Jennifer Hennessey, CVJ, Animal ER of Northwest Houston

igh and mighty, your little lion likely declares his place as king of the household jungle on a daily basis. Independent in character and predatory at that, cats tend to follow their own personal agenda, finding happiness in obscure ways, including seeking places of high status. Ever ponder the instinctive purpose of your acrobatic feline’s antics other than to show off how they reign over you? Cats naturally enjoy scratching, climbing and hiding in the tightest places…its part of being a prey animal as well as a predator. From the top of your china cabinet or the highest point of the stairway banister, down to the smallest shoebox, furry felines find delight in these locations. The basic reasons of why cats do this is still a mystery that animal behaviorists are continually studying to understand. High places offer a secure, stealthy location for the enjoyment of the penthouse view of the creatures below. Climbing trees, or your furniture, your little Tarzan and Jane are able to also seek safety satisfying their instinct to hide from any predators, even if it’s their canine counterparts or the cat-crazy kiddos in the home. The tales of cats getting stuck in the trees and needing rescue from the local fire department are real. Business alliances have formed for the rescuing of cats who have scaled over 50ft up, finding themselves above and beyond the ability to confidently descend with ease. The smallest boxes or drawers are also hard to pass up and even the most robust felines can’t resist these petite seclusions. The purr-fect hiding spot of security for your little king’s naps isn’t always king-sized in our definition, but more commonly, is of tiny dimensions; the tightest location is glorious to them while hilarious to those to love them. Securely snug hiding spots and boxes are proven to reduce stress and provide comfort to your feline. Selectively social, cats also enjoy having a “hiding” spot even if they only fit halfway into it, helping them feel secure in retreat by providing a semi-private local for them to recline. Your household jungle can offer challenging options in regards to what is safely scaled by your feline family members, so commercial cat trees are a great option to add feline friendly “foliage” to your home. Cat trees can offer great solutions for scratching and climbing as well as spare your delicate furniture in some

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cases. Indoor frisky felines will appreciate the opportunity to explore and exercise as well as to literally climb to new heights. Our furry feline friends sure know how to enjoy them-

selves with their natural knack and propensity for going above and beyond making them the true rulers of their (formerly your) domain!

Hairballs

Inconvenience or Emergency? By: Dr. Mark Silberman, Southwest Animal Clinic

airballs in cats are no doubt unpleasant, but if managed properly, can be a minor inconvenience. It is important to note that one or two vomits a month is usually normal for a cat. Most cats will either vomit the hair or pass it in their stool. The feline digestive system is designed to handle hairballs, but only up to a certain size. Three key symptoms can distinguish a not-so-worrisome hairball from one that may require immediate medical attention. These include: 1. Continued retching that does not culminate with the expulsion of a hairball 2. Frequent diarrhea 3. Loss of appetite following repeated hairball episodes All three of these symptoms could mean that your cat’s throat, stomach or intestines are blocked by a hairball obstruction. If your

cat exhibits any of these symptoms, see your veterinarian as soon as possible. The best defense against hairballs is to keep your cat from getting them in the first place. Minimize hairballs by brushing your cat, feeding a specially formulated hairball care food and for repeat hackers, increase their fiber intake. Try adding bits of asparagus, small amounts of canned pumpkin or oat grass to your cat’s hairball care commercial diet. You can also offer a little oil (around half a teaspoon) such as olive oil or butter to your cat’s food. This too will help push fur through the digestive system. If you are concerned about your cat and hairball production, the best course of action is to discuss the situation with your veterinarian to be on the safe side and make sure there are no underlying health issues.

Have Some Coffee, Adopt A Cat! El Gato Coffeehouse

ave you heard about Houston’s “cat cafe”? El Gato Coffeehouse in the Heights has some furry residents that you’ll want to meet if you are looking for some feline love. Opening just three years ago with the mission of adopting cats to the public, El Gato provides the foster cats in their care with an enriched experience while living at the coffeehouse. Since their inception, El Gato has adopted nearly 300 cats to the public in conjunction with Friends for Life Animal Shelter. With the idea of creating a business that also gives back to the community, owner Renee Reed says, “We’ve designed the cat cottage with the cats in mind (it is their house after all!). We’ve “catified” the cottage to give the cats lots of upward mobility, which allows a large population of cats to live comfortably and peacefully with each other.” It’s our bet that not only are the cat’s lives enriched, but they are also enriching the lives of the customers who get to have a great cup of java and play with cats too! Learn more at elgatocoffeehouse.com. Houston PetTalk Magazine

Destructive Scratching How Do I Keep My Cat From Scratching the Furniture? 1. UNDERSTAND THE BEHAVIOR:

A cat doesn’t scratch to tear up your furniture, but rather a cat scratches because it’s a form of exercise for the their muscles from the claws to the legs, shoulders, and down the back. Scratching also sharpens claws, cleans the exterior sheath and leaves a scent mark to proclaim territory to other animals. Scratching is necessary and normal so with that in mind, you need to find ways to redirect the behavior, not stop the behavior.

2. REDIRECT

Purchase a scratching device for your cat and you may need several types. Some cats like to scratch and stretch vertically so make

What is a Feral Cat?

WHAT IS TRAP-NEUTER-RETURN (TNR)?

Twenty years of research has shown that TNR is the most humane and effective strategy for reducing the feral cat population. It has been proven that trapping and euthanizing feral cats only contributes to the population problem. Cats are territorial and when cats are removed and euthanized from a location, new cats will move in and the survivors will breed to capacity. This well documented www.houstonpettalk.com

3. FIND THE RIGHT LOCATION

If your cat prefers scratching certain furniture, position your scratching post near the

furniture and display it prominently. More than one post is best. If your cat is attached to a particular person in the household and likes to scratch that person’s favorite chair, try putting a piece of laundry or personal item from that person on the post to make it more enticing. Essentially position GOOD scratching opportunities near the BAD opportunities (things you do not want scratched) and redirect your cat’s behavior to these devices.

Information provided by Citizen’s For Animal Protection, cap4pets.org

eral cats, also known as “wild or freeroaming” cats, are the largest cause of pet overpopulation in Houston. Thousands of feral cats are born into homelessness every year, often right in our own neighborhoods. Left unattended, feral cat colonies can grow out of control. But with your help, CAP is committed to solving this problem through humane trap-neuter- return.

sure a vertical device is sturdy (wobbly will not do!) and is at least as tall as your cat when he is standing on his hind legs. Some cats also like to stretch horizontally so a flat surface scratch pad may be in order as well (see our product guide for a great scratch pad). Do not purchase a scratch pad with a fluffy surface (sisal, hemp, etc. are best).

phenomenon is called the vacuum effect. TNR stops the problem because it stops the breeding and the colony will gradually diminish over time.

HOW DOES TNR WORK?

TNR is when feral cats are trapped in humane traps, taken to CAP (or other shelters offering TNR) for spay/neuter surgery, rabies vaccination, ear tip, and flea preventative, and then released where they were trapped after they recover for 24-48 hours after surgery. Ear tipping is the removal of a quarter inch off the top of the cats’ ear while the cat is anesthetized; this is the universal symbol and only proven way to identify a feral cat that has been fixed. For additional information and instructions on trapping, join a TNR orientation and visit Alleycat.org.

Is Your Cat Fat?

COVID-19 and Cats

How Does It Affect Our Feline Friends?

By Dr. Garcia, Internal Medicine Specialist at Sugar Land Veterinary Specialists

f you are owned by a cat, I’m sure this has been a question that has weighed heavily on your mind. The reality is, there is still a lot about this novel coronavirus that we don’t know, particularly when it comes to how it affects our feline friends. Part of the concern with cats and Covid-19 is that cats have cells in their lungs that are similar to the cells that humans have. For this reason, there is some concern that the novel coronavirus can adhere to these cells in a manner similar to what happens in people and that cats can then serve as reservoirs for infection. However, at this time, there is no evidence that cats can pass the infection to humans or that they can infect other pets. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), “There is no reason to think that domestic animals, including pets, in the United States might be a source of infection with the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.” Further, “The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not received any reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19 in the United States.” So what should you do? Veterinary associations around the world are advising cat owners

who have symptoms of COVID-19 or who may have been exposed to the infection, to minimize their contact with their cats. If possible, ask other family members to take care of your feline friends. If this is not possible, be sure to keep your contact to a minimum, wear a mask, and be sure to wash your hands before and after touching your cat. And as hard as it is, try not to hug and kiss them. At this time, there is no recommendation that cats, or other domestic animals, be routinely tested for COVID-19. If your cat is experiencing any illness, respiratory or otherwise, you should call your family veterinarian for advice. Most veterinary clinics have protocols in place to keep you and your cat safe should your cat need to be seen. They may even be able to offer you a telephone or video consultation. We are learning more and more about this virus every day and recommendations may change as we learn more. As always, if you have any questions about your cat’s health, don’t hesitate to reach out to your family veterinarian. Stay safe and wash your hands!

ust as in humans, there are grave consequences of long term obesity in pets. As their caretaker and the one responsible for feeding, it is a pet owner’s job to make sure our pets are receiving proper nutrition, proper portion control and exercise. Don’t give in to the pleading eyes and cute begging antics for treats - if your pet is overweight, get them back in shape out of LOVE. Some of the consequences of long term obesity in cats (and dogs) include: » Respiratory compromise (breathing difficulty) » Heat intolerance » Hypertension (high blood pressure) » Diabetes or insulin resistance » Liver disease or dysfunction » Osteoarthritis (lameness) » Increased surgical/anesthetic risk » Lowered immune system function » Increased risk of developing malignant tumors (cancer) Would you want your pet to suffer from any of these maladies? Probably not! So, take control of portions, food quality and exercise so that you can have your pet with you longer. Some people think it’s ok for a cat to be fat or that it’s “cute” in some way. It’s not!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

C at “Tales” from the Animal ER

Dr. Jennifer Hennessey Animal ER of Northwest Houston

An Array Of Issues Lead To An Emergency Situation

recent case at Animal ER of Northwest Houston is one of little Ginger who was experiencing lethargy and not eating. Cats, more than their canine counterparts, tend to hide issues and demonstrate problems when there’s more than a mild illness; when a cat is sick, it's best to assume it's serious until proven otherwise. Ginger was discovered on exam with a fever, dehydration, and an unusual nosebleed, which was just a scant amount of red color just inside her tiny nostril. During history taking upon presenting to the hospital, she had recently darted outside with curiosity which led to a mysterious adventure for a couple of days before she ventured back home. Knowledge of her stroll lead us to consider an expanded array of possibilities for illness and the nosebleed called for expedient lab work. Ginger's bleeding tests (called a PT/APTT) were abnormal; anytime a pet is bleeding and has slow clotting (abnormal PT/APTT), matters are considered alarming; considerations include a toxin, heat stroke, internal complications from

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illness, or inherited disorders. A spontaneous change may mean a quick health decline and for Ginger, the next answers found that her liver was damaged; presumably she consumed a poison during her disappearance that injured her liver function. Liver health is not something to “kitten” around about, as it’s essential for normal blood clotting ability. Away we went, treating Ginger with full supportive therapies including a plasma transfusion, vitamin K (also used as an antidote for some rat bait ingestions), and followed her diagnosis with more evaluation including abdominal ultrasound. Fortunately, her family was prompt in presenting to the ER and that for her tests led quickly to the correct conclusions for care. Ginger made a full recovery, enough that further medical interventions were more nuisance to her than any sickness. As she passed her final discharge exam with flying colors... what came flying from her nose… a little larva that had burrowed into her teeny nostril, which had increased her first relevant evidence of in-

ternal lifethreatening illness! That little critter irritated her nose just enough to spawn the small nosebleed which only happened because her liver was compromised. Not that her diagnosis wouldn’t have been made ultimately, but her little "fur-end' helped us make conclusions more briskly helping save time and save her life! As usual, a cat doesn't follow any easy path but for Ginger her path outdoors gathered a little critter to tell us more directly that she needed help and fortunately for her family, she delivered her small souvenir before settling in, all healed at home! In a day in the life of veterinary medicine, not every case follows the same "rules" especially when it comes to cats. Cases can be tricky to solve or the cat can add a few surprises themselves as you work to answer and remedy their medical issues. When a cat’s diagnostic “tale” is intriguing, a successful outcome is even more of a happy ending!

CAT Myths C

ats are very curious animals which makes them great hunters. The old saying “curiosity killed the cat but satisfaction brought him back” is so true. Because of this, we need to be vigilant and protect our innately inquisitive pets from harm. Many hazards, both indoors and outdoors can be harmful and toxic. The internet is an excellent resource of potential dangers. However, some of the information is both confusing or, simply, not true. Below are a few common myths that deserve clarification.

toxic are lilies. Several varieties such as Easter Lilies, Tiger Lily, Day Lily and Star Lily can cause kidney failure and death. It’s best to keep all these varieties from the cat’s reach. Make sure that when a floral bouquet is sent as a gift to a cat owner that lilies are excluded.

MYTH # 3 TRUE/FALSE »

MYTH # 1 TRUE/FALSE »

It is safe to brush my cats teeth with human toothpaste. FALSE. Many human toothpastes contain the artificial sweetener xylitol. When ingested, xylitol causes a rapid decrease in blood sugar and liver failure. Xylitol can also be found in some sugar-free gum and candy, certain medications and nasal sprays. Be sure to check labels and keep all products containing xylitol safely out of the cats playful reach.

MYTH # 2 TRUE/FALSE » »

Poinsettias are highly toxic when ingested. FALSE. Despite their reputation, poinsettias are only mildly toxic. If ingested, the symptoms may include drooling, vomiting or loose stool. Plants that are much more

By: Dr. Randlett, Kingsland BLVD Animal Clinic

Flea and tick medications formulated for dogs may be safely applied on cats. FALSE. Many topical flea/tick products for dogs contain the insecticide permethrin that is toxic to cats. When accidentally applied to cats these products can result in tremors and seizures. To prevent this from occurring read all labels prior to application. If accidentally applied, bathe the cat and seek veterinary advice.

MYTH # 4 TRUE/FALSE » »

I can give my cat human medicine for pain relief. FALSE. To control pain a well-meaning owner may resort to human pain medication. Unfortunately, the feline metabolism is markedly different from human’s. Pain relievers such as Tylenol (acetaminophen), anti-inflammatory NSAID’s (Advil, Alieve and Motrin) can cause red blood cell destruction and liver failure. Never give a cat over the counter pain medication labeled for human use.

MYTH # 5 TRUE/FALSE »

It’s a serious danger to shine a red laser light in my cat’s eyes. FALSE. A laser pointer for pets can provide behavioral stimulation and physical activity for cats. This can be especially helpful for the over weight pet. Research on pocket laser pointers causing eye damage indicates harm is unlikely. Red laser pointers in the 3-5mW range have not caused eye damage. This being said, it’s probably best to avoid shining the light for long periods into the eyes. Beyond the question of physical harm, however, there is concern about the emotional impact these toys have. When used the cat can never “win” at the game meaning the cat is unable to catch the light. This can lead to frustration because the energy created in the chase can’t be released from the “high” created by the hunt. Ultimately, the energy may be directed in a negative way such as overgrooming or aggression. At the end of a play session the cat should be permitted to “kill” a stuffed toy or something similar.

These are just a few myths dispelled. Please consult reliable sources for a more exhaustive list of truths and falsehoods.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

Outdoor Living Seven Potential Pitfalls of Outdoor Living

any cat owners worry that making their cats stay inside is unnatural and deprives them of their need to roam, explore, and meet other cats. However, the risks of an outdoor life are far greater than the benefits. Let’s exam the perils an outdoor cat may face: Disease - some diseases for which there are no current vaccines or are not readily available include Feline Leukemia and Feline Infectious Peritonitis, both of which are prevalent and deadly. Heartworm - there is a perception that cats do not get heartworm but this is not correct. Although not as common as in dogs, cats can get heartworm from mosquito bites and there is no shortage of mosquitoes in Houston. Skin Cancer - light colored cats are especially susceptible to skin cancer due to sunlight exposure. Fighting or Predators - cat quarrels among outdoor cats can result in abscesses, the spread of disease, injuries and even death. Cats are also susceptible to being killed by coyotes and dogs. Hanging/Choking - If your cat is outdoors with a collar, hanging or choking is a definite risk. Struck By A Car - not much explanation

needed here. Traffic is a risk to any loose animal. Toxoplasmosis - this single celled organism can be ingested when cats eat prey that has been exposed. Not only can it kill a cat, it is contagious to people and can result in severe birth defects to human babies whose mothers are exposed during pregnancy. Wearing rubber gloves while handling litter pan duties and

gardening is highly recommended for pregnant women. It is NOT necessary to rehome your precious kitty. It’s a proven fact that cats who live indoors have a longer life span than those cats that live outdoors or have access to outdoors. There are plenty of toys, food puzzles and snuggles inside to keep your cat active and stimulated.

Common Cat Malady: Urinary Tract Problems

eline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) is a collection of conditions that affects the bladder and urethra of cats. One of these conditions (the most common) is feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), which is inflammation of the bladder with an unknown cause. About two-thirds of cats with FLUTD have FIC. Diagnosis requires urinalysis, ultrasound and sometimes blood work or a biopsy. Some of these conditions are curable but many of them are not and require management involving diet and medication. Symptoms include inappropriate urination (outside the litter box), licking at the abdomen, increased frequency of urination or any behavior that is not normal for that particular cat (hiding, lethargy, no appetite, aggression). If you suspect urinary issues with your feline, visit your veterinarian for an exam. Remember, cats, like many other animals, hide pain due to their natural instincts and urinary problems can be very painful. It’s better to be proactive than to let your kitty suffer!

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Meet The Breed: Burmese

uite possibly the “purr-frect” cat, the Burmese has an impressive list of attributes! Most modern Burmese are descendants of one female cat called Wong Mau, which was brought from Burma to America in 1930 and bred with American Siamese. From there, American and British breeders developed distinctly different Burmese breed standards. Originally, all Burmese cats were dark sable brown, but are now available in colors ranging from light brown to platinum. In addition to having fine, silky, lustrous fur that is easily cared for, most Burmese are notably people-oriented and quite social, even being described as “dog-like” in their behaviors. Case in point, meet the two Burmese featured here, Delilah and Dougan, whose mom Pamela Wright of Wright Pawn & Jewelry notes, “They follow my husband Jack and I around our house, they come when called, and they love to fetch toys…just like dogs!” As someone that has owned the breed for 34 years, Pamela definitely has experience with Burmese in all aspects, including personality, healthcare and groom-

Delilah

ing. “Their fur is quite short, making for easy maintenance and less shedding but best of all, they are very loving. As a companion, they are perfect for us.” Pamela also notes that her kitties are very playful, acting much like kittens into adulthood. But the one aspect of the Burmese that many cat owners would find adorable is their social bonding to humans. Unlike the stereotypical cat description as "tolerant acceptance of human company”, Burmese offer the advantages of a cat (easy care, no potty breaks) while also offering the fun, playfulness and companionship of a dog. Sounds like the best of all worlds!

Dougan

A Food That Makes Your Cat Shed Less? Yes…It Exists!

ro Plan LiveClear is a revolutionary new cat food shown to simply and safely reduce allergens in cat hair and dander by an average of 47 percent starting with the third week of daily feeding. It is now available in the U.S. at PetSmart, Petco, Pet Supplies Plus and other pet specialty retailers in three formulas: Adult Chicken & Rice, Adult Salmon & Rice, and Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Turkey & Oat Meal.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

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Cat'tastic Pleasures ECO-FRIENDLY BE SAFE

A high-quality breakaway collar with a Recovery ID designed to help lost cats return home faster and safer. Info is stored on a free-for-life online recovery profile for just $5.99 from smartbuckle.com.

ökocat, a plant-based cat litter available in PetSmart® and Petco®, has no toxic additives, synthetic chemicals, fragrance, dyes or GMOs and is made from sustainably sourced, responsibly rescued natural fiber that's completely biodegradable and flushable.

CAT CAVE

If the kitty in your life prefers her she-cave to be unique, this hand-made fun house is purr-fect! Crafted from felted wool and natural wood, this creation takes 8 weeks for construction and delivery. Available at etsy.com: MeowFelt.

FOR THE FELINE PRINCESS

For a royal addition to any feline's kingdom, this cozy So Darling Cat Castle includes several lounge spaces as well as a perch from which she can view her empire! Available at catsplay.com.

WIGGLY FUN

Mix or match your cat's favorite Wigglys from deziroo.com by choosing any three: Ping, Pong, or Ball. All have the enticing and captivating, scented, wiggly tail, whose corkscrew movement mimics "live" prey.

LET'S PLAY!

Did someone say play? Your kitty will jump at the chance to interact with these colorful nylon tube ribbons, pom balls and a 22" wooden handle. This toy is sure to delight the feline jokester in your life! Get yours at cattailtoys.com.

NIP IT IN THE BUD

Especially crucial for indoor cats, live catnip relieves boredom and provides mental enrichment. It’s non-addicting, non-toxic that triggers cats’ pleasure centers. Find Bell Rock Pet Greens at petsuppliesplus.com.

SCRATCH ME

ScratchLadder is a four-rung system designed with interchangeable panels that can be customized to create the perfect combination of scratching surfaces for your cat to enjoy. Choices are always good for a finicky feline! Available at scratchplaymeow.com.

Houston PetTalk Magazine

Young, single, blue-eyed female seeking a moderately active family. My name is Delilah. Even though I am deaf, I still make a wonderful listener. I am crate trained, know basic commands and love to be with people. I enjoy going for walks as much as I love snuggling on the couch. Interested? Visit saveadane.org for more details. • 1 year old • 40 lbs • Deaf

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• Medium activity • Know hand signals • Catahoula Mix

DON’T LET OSTEOARTHRITIS PAIN

KEEP YOUR DOG DOWN HAVE YOU NOTICED ANY OF THE FOLLOWING IN YOUR DOG? Easily gets tired or lags behind on walks

Has trouble getting up from a resting position

Is reluctant to run, play or climb stairs

Has gained weight in the past year

Limps or appears stiff after exercise

Inflammation in the joints causes pain and cartilage damage which can lead to stiffness and decreased mobility.

Ask your veterinarian to evaluate your dog’s joints today.

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For A Like No Other THE BEST PART OF BEING A PET MOM… 1.

You never have to be alone: There will always be a furry someone with you…sleeping with you, watching you cook, laying on the sofa while you watch The Bachelor, watching you go to the bathroom…literally, you will NEVER be alone! You will have a reason to exercise: If your fur kid is a dog (especially if they are the “sporty” kind), you will not only have a reason to exercise, you will HAVE to exercise or their extra energy will result in untold variations of destroyed household items. You will never have a false sense of superiority: Seriously, how can you when you have to pick up their poop? You can parent how you choose: You can put a leash on your fur kid without looking like a total parental failure You don’t have to worry about being judged by your friends: Technically it’s not drinking alone when your pet is home!

2. 3. 4. 5. 42

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WHO GETS OUR TOP MOM AWARD IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM? THE ORANGUTAN

The bond between an orangutan mother and her young is one of the strongest in nature. During the first two years of life, the young rely entirely on their mothers for both food and transportation. The moms stay with their young for six to seven years, teaching them where to find food, what and how to eat and the technique for building a sleeping nest. Female orangutans are known to “visit” their mothers until they reach the age of 15 or 16. Now that is dedication!

For the Horse Mom LOCKETS OF LOVE

A personalized locket with an engraved message on the back and a personal photo inside is the quintessential gift of love. Jewelers, Esquivel and Fees in Rice Village, will engrave, size and insert photo; each comes with a silver chain. Available in any breed, flowers or other designs. Purchase online at efsterling.com. RESCUE MOM APPRECIATION

Animal rescue moms are a special breed. Honor all the hard work and dedication it takes to help surrendered and abandoned animals with this handmade pottery mug from SquareDogPottery on Esty.com.

FOR THE NEW MOM

Do you know someone who has just become a new “dog mom”? Say congrats with this thoughtful gift of an American grown soy wax candle from helloyoucandles on Etsy.com. You’ll definitely “light up” their Mother’s Day!

GIVE THE GIFT OF CHOICE Let the horse mom in your life select a fabulous find with a Gift Card from Marlo Miller Boutique in Memorial. Owner Marlo Miller is a horse mom herself so she stocks the store with unique fashion finds for equestrian minded ladies! During stay at home restrictions, you can order online at MarloMillerBoutique.com.

PERSONALIZE IT! A good cup of coffee is the perfect morning ritual before heading to the barn. Make your horse mom’s gift one-of-a-kind with a unique mug including their name, hair color and even a choice of outfits!

Houston PetTalk Magazine

HEALTH

CATS AND ALLERGIES

What You Need To Know

llergy season is here! Most of us are feeling the effects ourselves. Like humans, cats (and dogs) can also have allergies. Did you know that allergies are one of the most common medical conditions affecting cats? An allergy occurs when the cat's immune system overreacts or is hypersensitive to foreign substances called allergens. Think of allergens as invaders to your cat’s immune system. When a cat comes into contact with a substance that they are allergic to, the immune system may over react by producing antibodies that attack this invader, or allergen. These antibodies then travel to cells and release chemicals, thus causing an allergic reaction.

byline Shana D. Ricardson, PhD Vergi 24/7

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Hypersensitivity to these invaders to your cat’s immune system can manifest in one of three ways: *The most common manifestation is itching of the skin, either localized to one area or a generalized reaction all over the cat's body. *A second manifestation involves the respiratory system and may result in coughing, sneezing and even wheezing. You may sometimes also notice nasal or ocular (eye) discharge. *The third manifestation involves the digestive system and can result in vomiting, flatulence, and/or diarrhea. Following are the four main types of allergies that affect cats: Food allergies are caused by the immune system’s hypersensitivity to a food. A cat cannot develop an allergy to a food that he or she has not been exposed to. The foods most commonly associated with food allergies in cats include beef, fish, chicken, and dairy products. Cats tend to

develop food allergies between the ages of 2 and 6. Symptoms of a food allergy may include vomiting, diarrhea, flatulence, loss of appetite, itchy skin, rash, hives, hair loss and reddened skin. Flea allergies are caused by the immune system’s hypersensitivity to the saliva of the flea. When a flea bites a cat to consume a blood meal, some of its saliva is injected into the skin. A cat with a flea allergy will experience intense itching and irritation from a single bite. This reaction is an allergic response to proteins present in the flea’s saliva. The intense itching from one bite can last for days in cat with a flea allergy. In addition to the itching, you will likely also feel sores on your cat’s skin and may even see some hair loss. The most common allergies in cats are caused by environmental, or inhaled, allergens. Just like the other allergies seen in cats, environmental allergies occur when the cat’s immune system has a hypersensitivity and subsequent reaction to the allergen(s). Cats may be allergic to all of the same inhaled allergens that affect humans. These may include tree pollens, grass pollens, weed pollens, molds, mildew and dust mites. Many of these allergies are seasonal, like ragweed, cedar and grass, but some are with us all of the time like molds, mildews and dust mites. Your cat may sneeze and have watery eyes, a stuffy or runny nose, coughing and even asthma, but you will more often notice generalized itching, licking, inflamed ears, hair loss, scratches to the skin, and skin infections in severe cases. Skin contact allergies are the least common and are caused by a hypersensitivity to the chemicals in household items like detergents, soaps, shampoos, carpets, synthetic fibers, wool, leather, paint, petrolatum (petroleum jelly), rubber, plastic and insecticides. Contact allergies result in a localized reaction in the skin of your cat. Cats may experience significant itching that may lead to hair loss, sores and scabbing. It may take some detective work to solve the riddle of what item(s) your cat is reacting to but removal of that allergen will solve the problem! Always take your cat to their regular veterinarian if you suspect your pet may have allergies so that your vet may observe clinical signs and prescribe medication and a treatment plan. If you feel your cat (or dog) is having a severe allergic reaction, do not hesitate in seeking emergency life-saving treatment.

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HEALTH

HOUSE CALL VETERINARY MEDICINE

Serving Houston During a Pandemic

he COVID-19 outbreak has been a significant source of emotional and economic distress for our community and has resulted in the closing of schools, businesses, churches and public attractions in the Houston area. At the time of this article, only essential businesses are allowed to remain open, including animal healthcare services. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), “This work includes providing care for pets; horses; livestock (including safeguarding the nation's food supply); laboratory animals; and aquatic, exotic, and wild animals – all work that is essential and helps protect both animal and human health.” Many veterinarians and veterinary support staff in our community are risking

byline Dr. Christie Cornelius, CHPV seniorpaws.vet

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their health to help the most vulnerable of our companions: geriatric pets with terminal illnesses and a deteriorating quality of life. The goal is to lessen suffering - both human and animal, and to preserve the human-animal bond at the most critical time in a pet’s life. This type of care has become more difficult to provide during a pandemic, especially at veterinary hospitals where services are limited to curbside-only. Although veterinary practices are doing what’s right to ‘flatten the curve’ and prevent further spread of the coronavirus, this leaves pets to receive critical care, including end-of-life care, away from view and distant from the comfort of their grieving families. This is the reality that the veterinary community is currently faced with, which makes caring for animals and families in need extremely difficult for our soft souls to manage. The one bright spot in a sea of uncertainty, anxiety, grief, and loss is the continuation of mobile/house call veterinary

services that provide palliative (symptom management) medicine and humane euthanasia in the home environment. This absolutely does not mean providing this service is without risk - the AVMA has set guidelines for mobile veterinary services to follow during the COVID-19 pandemic. The current guidelines state that each practice should consider asking screening questions prior to scheduling an appointment to assess the level of risk involved in seeing a sick pet in the home. The use of telemedicine should be considered when a veterinarian-client-patient-relationship already exists. Pets of individuals in quarantine due to COVID-19 exposure should be seen outside of the home (backyard/garage). If this is not possible, the individual in quarantine should wear a surgical (or N95) mask and keep a distance of 6 feet between them and the veterinarian/team. Access to hand washing and disinfecting materials should be available at all times. In Houston, Senior Paws launched a successful home euthanasia referral initiative that aims to pair patients of other compassionate area veterinarians with our skilled team in order to provide families with end-of-life home services for their ailing pets that referring DVMs themselves cannot provide due to the restrictions of curbside veterinary care. We at Senior Paws remain healthy, well-staffed, and prepared - ready to service the community 7 days a week/365 days a year. Your veterinarian truly wants the best for you and your pet and understands the need to refer to a house call practice in these trying times. For more information, visit seniorpaws.vet.

HEALTH

ogs and cats are considered an important piece of our family and are living much longer thanks to advances in veterinary care. As our pets age, they are acquiring and living with numerous conditions. Sometimes this can present a challenge as some treatment options can interfere with their other conditions. Pain medications used to treat injuries or chronic arthritis may not be safe in a pet with liver or kidney disease. Even if these are safe to use, medication alone is not always enough to control the pain associated with a slipped disc in the back, chronic hip dysplasia, or a previous knee injury. Laser therapy has been used for

Hank receiving laser therapy for an acute back injury

ADVANCES IN VETERINARY LASER THERAPY Non-Invasive Solutions

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years in human medicine and is gaining popularity with veterinary patients as well. Therapy lasers use non-invasive light wave therapy to speed healing and reduce pain and inflammation in both acute and chronic conditions. While there are many different ways to utilize laser therapy in veterinary medicine, pain control is one of the most common uses due to the wide safety margin and numerous benefits. The versatility of this laser allows us to treat conditions such as painful joint arthritis, neurologic pain, and soft tissue injuries without having to worry about most other medical conditions and/or interactions with the petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s other medications. Unlike commonly used medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS) or opioids, laser therapy is safe even with underlying liver or kidney disease. Also, it does not cause sedation or GI upset which are the most common complaints

Cynthia Aswad, DVM, The WellPet Center Veterinary Hospital

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about pain medications in our patients. Some pets are actually able to greatly decrease or even eliminate their dependence on daily pain medications. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient based on their condition, but we have had great success using an initiation period over the first 3 weeks. After concluding this initiation period, treat-

ments are spread out to every 1-4 weeks depending on response to therapy. Each treatment is non-invasive, non-painful, and only takes about 10-15 minutes. Jake is an 11year old dog with a long history of arthritis that has been treated with the usual joint supplements and pain medications. While this has helped, he still seemed stiff as if in pain. His owner noticed a difference after only 3 visits for laser therapy and has since been able to taper his chronic pain medication. She reports that he is â&#x20AC;&#x153;jumping up, chasing toys again, and generally feeling like his old self.â&#x20AC;? Laser therapy has many other indications such as wound healing, ear infections, abscesses, and most other causes of inflammation. Pain control is often the most utilized since older patients have numerous other conditions where pain medications may be contraindicated. If you have a pet that is struggling with chronic pain, ask your veterinarian if this is an option for you. Olive receiving laser therapy for chronic pain due to a previous injury

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s a veterinarian, I know that dogs are more than members of our family, they are natural born athletes who will take on any challenge. It’s our responsibility as their owners to

surrounding vessels in the muzzle, and in effect cools the body temperature of the dog. However, if there is insufficient blood volume from dehydration, they cannot cool down appropriately. If the resulting elevated body temperatures go too high

YOU CAN LEAD A DOG TO WATER But You Can’t Make Them Drink ensure our loyal friends receive the appropriate hydration and nutrients after activity. The same way we recover more efficiently from sports drinks, our canine athletes can also benefit from water supplements! The most important step to enhancing your dog’s recovery is ensuring they are drinking enough water. Sounds simple, right? Unfortunately, most overheated dogs do not drink enough water and I frequently have to rehydrate them with IV fluids in the clinic. Panting is a dog’s primary cooling mechanism but the process does not operate efficiently when they are dehydrated. The process works as follows: As a dog pants, the exhaled air extracts body heat from the warm blood in the

byline Dr. Rachel Welsh replenishdog.com

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above normal, detrimental effects such as heat stroke, organ damage, and even death can occur. Because of my experience as a veterinarian, dog agility competitor, and former All-American Track Athlete for Rice University, I fully appreciate the importance of hydration to keep our canine’s performance optimal. To solve the problem of rehydrating dogs that refuse to drink and restoring energy levels after exercise, I created an on-the-go supplement, called REPLENISH, which is mixed with water and given to your dog during or right after exercise. The all-natural chicken broth flavor entices water consumption even in the midst of heavy panting. In addition to water, research has shown that giving your dog simple carbohydrates within 1 hour of exercise is highly beneficial because it restores cellular energy back to 90-100% within 24 hours. In

comparison, these same studies show that feeding a regular dinner multiple hours after exercise will only restore energy levels to 70-80% in 24 hours. Therefore, REPLENISH was created to contain a highly dissolvable carbohydrate source to better rebuild the body’s energy supply. Furthermore, recent studies on sled dogs have shown that ingestion of blueberries increases blood antioxidant levels. For this reason, blueberry powder is incorporated to combat oxidative damage that occurs with intense exercise. Lastly, by adding Vitamin B6 and B12, REPLENISH will also promote cellular recovery. Since dogs do not sweat and lose electrolytes like us, electrolytes are not included because excess supplementation can be harmful. The combination of nutrients in REPLENISH is the optimal formula for recovery in active dogs but can also be used to treat mild forms of dehydration in sick dogs. REPLENISH is a product that I’ve been working on for years in conjunction with veterinarian nutritionists to provide total body recovery in active and sick dogs and am excited to offer it to my native city! Please visit replenishdog.com to learn more or email info@replenishdog.com with additional questions!

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costs. Belle is much happier in her kennel because it’s probably where she found comfort in her former life. She lays on her porch and watches all of the activities of the bustling facility. Their fantastic staff and the rescue’s board members make sure Belle gets lots of attention, enjoys treats, and is happy. GDRST continuously tries to work with all dogs in the program to help them become adoptable. Sometimes it’s through working with a volunteer behaviorist, hiring trainers to work with foster homes, and providing plenty of stimulating and appropriate activities.

HOW YOU CAN HELP UNADOPTABLE DOGS LIVE OUT A MEANINGFUL LIFE

UNADOPTABLE GREAT DANES

What Happens to Them?

ost people picture a Great Dane coming into rescue as one who is ready to begin the best days of their lives. But, what happens when a dog is unadoptable? If a rescue like the Great Dane Rescue of Southeast Texas relies on foster homes and doesn’t have their own boarding facility, where does the dog live out their life? The answer isn’t always simple. The rescue must find a way to help the Great Dane become adoptable or help it live out the best life possible.

sues. Because this rescue relies on foster homes, the dogs must be able to function in a home. Currently this rescue has an unadoptable dog named Belle. While she loves people, the rescue quickly learned she had never been in a home before. Before being rescued, she was probably kept in a cage her entire life. Several foster families worked very hard to help train and socialize Belle, but nothing worked. She ate through doors, had extreme separation anxiety, and could not safely be in a crate in a home unattended ever.

WHAT MAKES A GREAT DANE UNADOPTABLE?

HOW THE GREAT DANE RESCUE HELPS UNADOPTABLE DOGS

Many different reasons and variables can cause a Great Dane to be unadoptable. Besides the typical aggression issues, a dog can also be unadoptable due to dire health problems and extreme behavior is-

byline Steffani Martin, saveadane.org

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For the dogs with difficult health issues, a foster home that agrees to keep the dog for the remainder of their life is found, and the rescue pays for regular veterinary care for the dog and all necessary expenses. For dogs like Belle who do not do well in a home setting, the rescue will place the dog in boarding and absorb those

The most impactful way you can help an unadoptable dog is through monetary donations that go directly to cover veterinary expenses, food, and boarding. The dogs in permanent foster homes and boarding also enjoy donations of stimulating toys and treats. The Great Dane Rescue of Southeast Texas needs pet lovers like you to help the unadoptable dogs have the best chance at becoming adoptable or to live out their lives as happily as they can. They’re counting on you!

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BOREDOM BUSTERS Entertaining Your Family and Fido While Staying at Home

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Take your dog for extra walks. This will get you out of the house into the fresh air and give both you and your pup needed exercise. Get out some training treats and practice your dog’s basic skills. Practice calling your dog to you when they are not paying attention. Practice sit, down, stay, going to their bed, or “place”. Reward behaviors with small training treats and lots of praise. Take time to play with your dog. Grab your dog’s favorite toy or ball and start of game of fetch. This would be a good opportunity to practice your dog’s “drop it”, or “release” skills. Involve your children with these things. Set up a competition to see which child can get the dog to do their skills or tricks the best. Look up some new and “just for fun” tricks that your kids could try to teach the dog. Then have a family show where

Connie Archer, Trainer, Bark Busters Home Dog Training, barkbusters.com

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the kids get to demonstrate what they can get the dog to do. Take a video of them working with the dog to send to grandparents or other family and friends. Other games the dogs and family might enjoy would be a possible game of hide and seek in the house. Give one of your children and few treats and have them sneak off into another room and then call the dog. When the dog finds them, the dog gets the treats. Start off with easy locations and once the dog catches on to the game, you can make it more difficult. Try setting up some homemade agility-type obstacles in your backyard. Use some small cones, or tap some dowel rods or PVC pipe into the ground and set them up like weave poles. If your kids have a hula-hoop around, get it out and try to teach your dog to jump through it. You would first start with the hoop on the ground and get the dog to walk through and then gradually raise it. Be sure and consider the age and abilities of your dog. Be sure you are not making these things

so difficult that you might cause injury to your dog.

DURING THESE CRAZY TIMES, REMEMBER THAT DOGS STILL NEED STRUCTURE AND ROUTINE:

If, during normal times, your dog gets crated some during the day, you should continue to try to include crate times each day. If your dog is free now all day, every day, it will be extremely difficult for them when things go back to normal and they have to be suddenly confined. It is not good for your dog to never be alone. Even if you have to get in your car and go for a ride, try to take a certain period of time each day where you leave your dog home alone. Try to keep somewhat of a normal routine for your dog. Stay close to the dog’s normal bedtime and feeding schedule.

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PROVIDING SAFE BOUNDARIES Indoors and Outdoors from Invisible Fence Brand

hen we bring a pet into our home, we take responsibility for their life. We feed them and provide shelter and love. Through training, we communicate the rules of acceptable behavior to them. Dogs are outdoor creatures; they like to explore, run, play and burn energy. A fence or gate is often an opportunity for adventure that can end up being a tragic mistake. Dogs can’t understand the unfortunate consequences of exploring

byline invisiblefence.com

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a limitless world. Invisible Fence Brand offers solutions which a dog or cat can understand and learn. The process of how dogs and cats learn to stay safe has evolved over the past 46 years. In collaboration with leading animalbehaviorists around the country, the Perfect Start™ Plus Training Program we use, was developed to ensure pets learn boundaries without fear or distress. Using these customized training techniques, our trainers provide the most gentle and humane path to learn new boundaries. Our combination of extraordinary electronic equipment and knowledgeable professionals will provide you and your family with a better pet experience. The following are solutions you may not realize we have to offer.

INDOOR SOLUTIONS: »

» »

» » »

Protect furniture from clawing, scratching or chewing damage Block access to rooms or stairs Create pet-free zones for your belongings or their safety or both Make patios a safe area in a condo Use instead of a baby gate Dog doors that open with the receiver collars

OUTDOOR SOLUTIONS:

Create an “endless barrier” around the areas pet should stay within » Avoidance of poisonous plants or flowerbeds, trees or a garden » GPS units available for large properties Another favorite feature is the “different rules for different pets”. Examples: a food bowl can be on or off limits depending on which pet it is intended for. Other examples: a dog can be kept away from a cat box; an older pet can have a safe haven from his younger siblings, etc. Invisible Fence Brand was the first to invent the radio pet containment concept. They are always creating new innovative products for our families. Please be careful going forward, as all brands are not equal! Invisible Fence Brand of Greater Houston has been around since 1984 and is dedicated to making lives with pets healthier and happier. »

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D Bull frog

id you know there are 30 different species of frogs and toads in Texas? The problem I have, however, is telling the difference between a frog and a toad. Can you tell the difference? First, let’s explore the similarities.

need longer legs because they hop more and higher than toads. Toads tend to crawl more. They can hop but they can’t hop very high or very far. The frog spends most of its time in the water so it has webbed back feet. Sometimes the front feet are webbed as well.

IS IT A FROG OR A TOAD? How to Tell the Difference Both frogs and toads are members of the amphibian class. Both have short bodies, two hind legs, two front arms and a wide head. Both frogs and toads are carnivorous and eat worms, insects, slugs, spiders and small fish. Toads may also eat dog food left outside. They catch their prey with their long, sticky tongues. Females lay their eggs close to water or actually in the water and the males fertilize them.

DIFFERENCES: »

If you look at the hind legs, you’ll notice the frog has very long legs. They

byline Cheryl Conley, TWRC Wildlife Center twrcwildlifecenter.org

The coloring between frogs and toads is different. Frogs are a bright green or a yellow-olive in color. Toads are a dark green to an olive green in color. Make sure you don’t rely solely on coloring when trying to identify an animal though because there are some brownish green frogs. » Frogs spend the majority of their time near water and rarely venture very far away from a water source. During breeding season, frogs can be incredibly noisy. If you have security lights around your home, these lights will attract insects which will in turn attract frogs who want to eat them. If the noise bothers you, turn out the lights. If you have pets, don’t allow them to play with toads. When toads are threatened or bitten, they use the same defense mechanism as a skunk. The skin lets out a bitter taste and odor that burns the eyes and nostrils. It is highly toxic to pets and can cause death if left untreated. Humans, however, are not affected by a toad’s toxin. If your pet has been outside and you notice it pawing at its mouth or eyes, crying or whimpering, it may have encountered a toad. Other signs to look for: » Excessive drooling » Seizures » Yellow vomit » Diarrhea » Dilated pupils » Irregular heartbeat » Foaming at the mouth » Hyperthermia » Collapse » Difficulty breathing If you think your pet has had an encounter with a toad, contact your veterinarian immediately. For other helpful information, check out the blog on the TWRC Wildlife Center website. www.twrcwildlifecenter.org »

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Toads have a chubbier appearance than frogs. The skin of the frog is much smoother. A toad’s skin will be bumpy and the bumps resemble warts.

Colorado River toad