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Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

Magazine™

Letter from the publisher Hello and welcome to the first issue of Pet Me! Magazine™, the only publication created exclusively for Santa Clarita pet owners.

PUBLISHER AND EDITOR Bridget Alves

Advertising/Marketing Bridget Alves Production/Graphics Michelle Angelo Vincent

Contributing writer Alyce Russell

Published by Pet Me! Publications 661.259.9979

Advertising Information: Direct: 818.635.6473 Fax: 866.259.9201 General e-mail: [email protected] Web-site: www.petmemag.com Annual Subscription: $10

As a dedicated pet mom of a dog, two cats, and a bunny, I’ve made it the mission of Pet Me! Magazine™ to cover issues relevant to all types of pets, including fish, reptiles, and exotics. Our articles are chosen to educate, inspire, and help you be the best pet owner possible. Since this issue is out during the holidays, when many of us are traveling, we’ve included an article on how to pick the perfect pet sitter, as well as what types of foods you should avoid giving your pets this season. Ever wonder why cats eat grass? So did I. You’ll find out the answer to that question, and many others, right here in Pet Me! Magazine™. In every issue, we will feature awesome adoptable pets available in the Santa Clarita Valley. This month, we’ve highlighted five beautiful dogs from The Brittany Foundation, a no-kill, all-breed dog rescue in Agua Dulce. If you’re looking to bring home a pet this holiday season, please consider rescuing from any of the many wonderful rescues and shelters in our community. At Pet Me! Magazine™, we strongly support adoption. As Best Friends Animal Society points out in their campaign to bring about the day of no more homeless pets, “Puppies aren’t products.” I would love to hear your feedback on our inaugural issue, as well as any pet-related story suggestions, especially if it’s happening here in the Santa Clarita Valley. From my four-legged family to yours, may you have a blessed holiday season! Sincerely,

Bridget Alves

Publisher, Pet Me! Magazine™

Pet Me! Magazine™

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Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

contents

VOL.1 • ISSUE 1 • WINTER 2009

“You can say any foolish thing to a dog, and the dog will give you a look that says, ‘My God, you’re right! I never would’ve thought of that!’” ~ Dave Barry

Food for thought

Features

5

Special Needs of Senior Cats

6

Make Your Own Dog Biscuits

7 8

Recipe for Happy Hummingbirds

9

Getting Your Dog to Listen

Feathered Friends

Do Cats 10 Why Eat Grass?

12

7

11

Awesome & Adoptable

12

Pets & The Holidays

13

Picking the Perfect Pet Sitter

Food – 14 Pet Quality Counts!

ResouRces

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15

Why Rats Make Great Pets

17

Poisonous Plant Index

“When I play with my cat, who knows whether she is not amusing herself with me more than I with her.” ~ Montaigne

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Features Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

Senior Cats your older cat is not coming to you when you call it, it can be because it has lost the sense of hearing. When a cat gets older, it is best to keep it inside as it can also lose its sense of smell and vision. This means the cat will be vulnerable to dogs on the street, cars and other cats. If your cat loves fresh air and likes to go outside, then it would be best to supervise him or her outside. Also, as cats get older, their sense of taste and smell will diminish, making them less interested in eating. In this case, you need to give the cat moist food or you can also try warming the meals. This way the scent will be at life expectancy has increased amplified and the cat will be more dramatically over the last few likely to eat. The moist food will also decades, due to care from their increase the amount of water that is human owners and advancement in in the cat’s diet and prevent veterinary medicine. Nowadays a cat dehydration from is old when it reaches its 10th birthoccurring. day. After 10 years the aging process begins. Even the most playful kitty Always keep will grow old but with some attention fresh water availfrom you, a cat often reaches 15 to 20 able and monitor years old. drinking habits.

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As they grow older, cats lose their hearing ability. This can sometimes go unnoticed as the owners sometimes confuse the lack of response of their cat with simple stubbornness. But if

do not see your cat getting water, talk to the vet for some other solutions. If upon researching the condition of your cat online, you come across recommended medications, do not buy them unless you talk first to your vet. Medications have side effects and only a trained veterinarian can accurately prescribe them after carefully analyzing the status of your cat’s health. Older cats can also develop difficulties in swallowing. A cat can lose its teeth and its gums can turn white. The most recent studies show that older cats have a problem with the potassium. This results in poor fur coat, lethargy and loss of appetite. Low potassium levels are detrimental Continued on pg. 6

The thirst drive can also fade with age and a cat can easily become dehydrated. If you

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Food for thought

Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

Share your favorite dog biscuit recipe! Send us your recipe! Each issue will feature a new dog biscuit recipe and a picture of your pooch!Send your recipes to [email protected]

Peanut Butter dog biscuits Ingredients: 3 cups whole wheat flour 1 cup soy flour 2 tablespoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt 2 cups peanut butter, chunky or creamy 1 1/2 cups milk

Method: Heat oven to 375 F. and grease 4 baking sheets. Combine whole wheat flour and soy flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. Blend peanut butter and milk in a blender. The dough must be soft. Take dough out and place on a surface that has been lightly floured and mold lightly. Roll dough out until it is about 1 cm thick and cut into 5 cm squares or rectangles. Put biscuits on baking sheets about 3 cm apart from each other. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until slightly browned. Put cooled biscuits away, wrapped well, in freezer or refrigerator. Makes about 36 biscuits

Senior Cats, continued from pg. 5 Caring for your pet as it ages is critical. Be aware of changes in your cat’s behavior. Regular visits to your vet can help prevent problems down the Other problems that may occur are stiffness and arthritis. An older cat can line. sometimes sleep a lot and refuse to move because of joint pain. Lack of “In ancient movement will add to the cat’s distimes cats were comfort and the muscles will weaken. Encourage your cat to do some worshipped as activity. Exercise also helps with the gods, they have bowel movement. to an older cat and can destroy the kidneys.

Since older pets can start losing their hair, daily grooming can help tremendously with hairballs. A hairball removal remedy can keep your cat from coughing up nasty and uncomfortable hairballs. 6

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never forgotten this.” -Unknown

Meet Tank. 8 months old. The perfect family dog. Loves kids and other animals. Seems fine with cats. CONTACT 661-296-2020

Food for thought Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

Recipe for Happy Hummingbirds by C.J. Westrick

W

ho said sugar is bad for you? Hummingbirds would disagree! These small, high-energy birds flit from flower to flower looking for nectar. You can get a bird’s-eye view of them by adding a hummingbird feeder close to

Hummingbird feeders should be cleaned frequently. This means every other day during hot summer days and at least every 5 days at other times of the year. Ideally, cleaning involves soaking all the feeder parts in a mild bleach solution (10 parts hot water to 1 part chlorine bleach). Be sure to rinse it thoroughly before filling it again. Once you’ve made your selection, you are ready to make the sugar water that is the hummingbird’s food of choice. It’s quite simple: add 1/4 cup of white granulated cane sugar to each cup of boiling water.

a window in your house. Select your hummingbird feeder carefully. Make sure the feeder you choose: - has sufficient capacity for the number of hummingbirds in your area. A dish feeder has limited capacity but may be enough if you have a small number of hummingbirds visiting you. - is made of heavy glass and sturdy plastic. You will want to test it’s sturdiness with the “drop test” … can it survive a 5-foot drop onto grass? - has replacement parts available. Hummingbird feeders are constantly exposed to the weather and parts will become brittle as they age. When this happens you’ll have to replace those parts or the whole feeder. - is easy to take apart for cleaning.

You must boil water (stove top or microwave) and then add the sugar and stir until dissolved. Boiling helps dissolve the sugar and kills off things that may make the sugar water spoil faster. It must be cool before you add it to your hummingbird feeders! The sugar water can remain in your refrigerator for 2 weeks. However, it spoils rather quickly outside in the hummingbird feeders. This is why it is important that you replace it (and clean the feeder) every 2 days throughout warm weather and at least every 5 days the rest of the year. You can usually tell when you’ve waited too long and the sugar

is becoming spoiled; it will start to cloud. Why do you usually see a red liquid in hummingbird feeders? Some people like to add a touch of food coloring to the sugar water. It is not necessary to do this and is more for your pleasure than the hummingbird’s. What you do NOT want to do is use any other form of sugar in the hummingbird food: not molasses, not brown sugar, not honey, not artificial sugars. These do not provide the same resemblance to nectar that white granulated cane sugar does. If you decide to put hummingbird feeders in your yard, please keep them full and clean. The hummingbirds will get used to finding a food source in your yard and, when natural nectar resources are hard to find (e.g. frost has killed off the flowers), they will come to you for food. Think of them as one more mouth to feed from now on.

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Features Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

Feathered Friends by Alyce Russell

equals a fulfilling relationship.

TIME Start with how much time you have to spend with the pet. Some birds are content to stay in their cage while others require a great deal of interaction and play time. Any new addition to the family gets a great deal of initial attention but as time passes so can the interest. Many of the birds in the parrot family do not adapt well to lack of attention and can become noisy and troublesome when ignored. What type of diet does the bird require? Seed alone is no longer an acceptable diet for any bird but does the bird require your cooking his food or chopping his fruits and vegetables? Many birds can share your diet (provided it is healthful) and eating together can be quite fun! How about cleaning of the cage and or playpens? A bird housed in a cage is far less time consuming to clean than a parrot who requires toys, ladders and play pens to be happy.

B

irds do make charming pets. They can be friendship for the lonely or entertainment to a busy household. Not only are birds lovely to look at but they can be comical, loving and endearing. Some are natural gymnasts while others sing beautiful songs. Many birds can be trained to talk, enjoy being handled and warm your heart with their antics. Choosing the “right” bird for your household will save you from disappointment and the bird from disaster. Before you select plan wisely and educate yourself. First time owners often make the mistake of selecting a “pretty bird”. Not learning what that bird’s general personality traits are or his basic needs can spell trouble. Balancing your needs and the bird’s

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Will you need to train this bird? This can require not only time with the bird but the reading of books and articles and spending time with knowledgeable sales people. Training a bird is most rewarding and makes for a close friendship with your feathered friend.

ACTIVITY Inquire as to how active is the bird? Is he a gymnast? Does he require being handled and allowed to roam? Are you looking for a bird to cuddle or an active explorer? Maybe just a bird to sit and look pretty! They are all different.

FAMILY What is your household like? Do you

have a large noisy family? Some birds like the parrots, will scream along with the noise and even strive to be the loudest while others may be terrorized by the commotion. Noisy birds do not do well in apartments where they can bother neighbors. Not all birds do well with children and not all children do well with birds. Act accordingly!

SIZE A large beak, usually accompanied by a large body, can be intimidating. Smaller birds are usually easier to handle for first time buyers. Keep in mind that a large bird needs more’ cage space and more space for that cage. Birds are happiest when they have ample space to move around in.

MONEY How much do you have to spend? Keep in mind that more expensive birds can add up to more expenses not only initially but upkeep as well.

CONCLUSION Always start with a healthy bird from a reputable pet store, breeder or adoption agency. Ask questions about the specific bird you are interested in and make your interests and living situations known. Buy books for reference and general care of the bird you are buying. Find a vet, before an emergency who is specifically trained in birds. If you are purchasing an exotic - take the bird for an exam to insure his health. Do not buy on impulse! Take your time, get educated and be responsible. Commit your time and love to your pet and as always, you’ll get back more than you give.

Features Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

How To Get Your Dog To Listen Listen to your dog

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o what is the problem you are having with pooch? Is your dog not behaving like the angel you thought it would? There could be any number of reasons as to why the animal is not properly behaving, but one of the most important reasons is the reason of listening. Do you actually listen to what your dog is trying to tell you? If your dog is not ready to do anything and is lazy, it is not going to obey your commands. It is just as simple as that. Now on the other hand, if you can get your dog excited to start listening, you will have one of the most obedient dogs on the planet. You must make the dog excited to want to learn and want to please you. Only then will you have the full attention of the animal. So what is one to do? Well, without getting into too much detail, you just have to keep things simple and to the point. How do you practice getting your dog motivated? Come up with a routine that you can do on a daily

basis for about a week or so, that will not make your dog distracted. For example, go to a quiet room and with a dog treat, begin your training. When you can get the dog to focus its attention on you and on the treat, you are winning the battle. You must always make the dog want to please you and never forget to reward it for the awesome behavior it displays, the good behavior that is. Teaching your dog to sit and then giving it a treat, will let the dog know that you are happy with what it has just accomplished. Taking these simple things into consideration, you will go a long way in helping your dog understand that when it comes time to pay attention, it better do so. Why would it want to disobey you anyway? It really wants that treat. So with treat, practice, and patience, you will see an amazing change in the way your dog behaves. You have to keep in mind that a treat is a reward with your dog. Dogs love rewards

just like we do. So be generous and be kind when handing out the reward for good behavior. Stay positive in your teaching and never be negative about it. Negativity will only hurt the process. Stay sharp and good luck.

About The Author © 2006 — Zane Madison — Learn how to stop a dog from digging at this website. http://www.dogtrainingguide.org/dog/training/ behavior/digging/stopdigging.html

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Features Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

he may attempt to eat your house plants instead. This could be dangerous because some house plants and flowers are toxic to cats, so if you have a house cat, you should provide a regular supply of potted grass to prevent him looking elsewhere. Most importantly do not punish your cat for regurgitating on to you carpet because he will not know why you are punishing him. Regurgitation is an involuntary action of your cat’s stomach so he could not stop it happening even if he tried. Cleaning up after the occasional regurgitation should be an accepted part of being a loving cat owner as they are only doing what comes naturally.

Why do cats eat grass?

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ome cat owners make the mistake of preventing their cat from eating grass. There are various reasons for this, one being that they think it makes their cat ill or upsets their stomach. This is an incorrect assumption and in fact, the eating of grass followed by regurgitation is a perfectly natural behavior for all cats. Cats do not possess the ability to separate meat from fur bones or feathers before eating like we do, so they have to eat the digestible parts along with the indigestible parts. When the cat has finished digesting what he can the rest has to be removed from the system. To try and pass this through the digestive tract could cause obstruction and severe illness, so this is where grass eating comes in. The habit of eating grass triggers the natural process of regurgitation of indigestible foods including its own fur balls which

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would otherwise obstruct the system. This can appear to us humans as if the cat is being violently ill but this is not the case and in fact is very beneficial to the cat. What about other plants and vegetables? Cats cannot produce the enzymes needed to break down plant matter. Even when pureed or powdered, vegetables simply pass through the digestive tract without leaving any of their nutritional content. This alone is not harmful to your cat, but when undigested plant matter mixes with highly digestible food such as meat, indigestion and other complications may occur. Grass is an exception however; some cats compulsively eat grass when you leave them outdoors. This will cause them to regurgitate the indigestible matter, including raw vegetables. If your cat is unable to get access to grass

About The Author Drew Pilton is the writer of ‘The Complete Ragdoll Cat Keepers Handbook. To find out more visit: http://www.ragdoll-cat-care.com

Rescue Me!

Bambi was rescued from the Kern County Shelter on what would have been her last day. She is given her name because she resembles a baby deer. She is 4 years old, loves to be held. She is the perfect lap dog. Would do best with a family with older children.

CONTACT 661-296-2020

Features Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

Awesome & Adoptable The Brittany Foundation, a non-profit humane organization dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of homeless dogs in Agua Dulce, has several dogs available for adoption: Charlie, a 7-year old Terrier mix, is a charming fellow that resembles an overgrown Jack Russell. Extremely smart and energetic, Charlie is looking for an adults-only home where he can romp, chase balls, and finally, curl up and get lots of belly rubs. A very affectionate dog, Charlie loves to give kisses once he’s had he’s daily walk or play session. Needs to be an only canine child. You’ll be the talk of the neighborhood with this handsome devil by your side. Laura - 9 yr old female poodle - from the shelter. Happy go lucky little gal who stands up and claps her paws when you come home from work. With her even disposition, Laura would be a perfect addition to any family.

Harry - 10 yr old male Maltese - from the shelter. Formerly a matted and neglected mess, Harry has now recovered from his previous owners and is looking to just hang out with new folks who will provide the understanding and love he craves. Harry’s got a lot of spunk for his age and will provide years of love and companionship.

Loren - 4 year old pit bull mix -is beautiful inside and out. A former stray, Loren just loves people and is great with kids of all ages. Loren has traveled the country with one of our volunteers as an ambassador for her breed and really enjoys going for car rides, hanging out on café patios, eating ice cream, belly rubs, giving kisses, and sleeping in (she can go 10 hours without needing a potty break). Loren is very dog selective and would probably do best as the only pet, but we think she deserves to be the center of attention.

Tramp - terrier mix - male - 4 yrs old - from the shelter. This is one cute little guy. Has some basic training. Loves his walks. We discovered that Tramp has Addison’s Disease. Oh, it’s not as bad as it sounds. Just needs to be corrected by a monthly shot. With that, he’s as healthy as a horse. With the right balance of medical care, Tramp will lead a long, strong, and productive life and will make someone a great little companion. Won’t you give Tramp a chance? To inquire about adopting, volunteering, or donating to The Brittany Foundation, call (661) 713-5240 or e-mail [email protected]. The Brittany Foundation opens its doors from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Sunday so families can meet rescued dogs for adoption. The Foundation can also make appointments during the week. For more information, visit www.brittanyfoundation.com. Application, home check and fee required for adoption. Pet Me! Magazine™

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Features

Pets and the Holidays

Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

by Alyce Russell

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he holiday season is fast approaching and with it comes the hustle and bustle of shopping, partying and just trying to stay on top of day to day events. Our daily routines are often altered and although stressful for us, it can have a far greater impact on our pets. The departure from normal can easily bring on nervousness, insecurity and the breakdown of acceptable behavior. To help make life at home run more smoothly during the festive months ahead, I have listed some suggestions for the existing and the new family pet. First of all, try to keep your pet’s schedule as normal as possible. Regular feeding, exercise and at home play are important. When you must engage in social events and Fido is left home to fend for himself, be certain he has his favorite toys, chews and treats to help alleviate boredom. Often times pets suffer from anxiety during the holidays and show their displeasure through spiteful behavior. If this could be a problem, plan ahead. Try to leave him in a small room with his creature comforts and soothing background music (that would not be “Jingle Bells“). If you are out during a regular elimination time, ask a neighbor to come over and take him out. Many pets each year are injured or poisoned by holiday decorations. Both plastic and glass ornaments can break into sharp shards when chewed. The shards can puncture skin or other organs. Flashing tree lights can be hazardous to the curious kitty and the small electric cords can cause disaster in one bite. Bows and ribbons can cause blockages in intestines when swallowed. Holly berries, poinsettias, the bulbs of amaryllis and paper white narcissus are all toxic. Any part of the mistletoe plant can be fatal if swallowed. 12 Pet Me! Magazine™

If guests are coming to stay, alert them that your family includes cats, dogs, birds, snakes or whatever! Let them know if your pets are noisy, or if they perch on furniture, eat at the table, or sleep on beds. This will eliminate the need for you to be constantly yelling at your pet for behaving in a manner it is accustomed to. Pets who are unfamiliar with children need to be confined to a safe room during holiday visits from small ones. Introduction during the excitement and confusion of holiday atmosphere is unadvisable. The excitement can encourage a frightened pet to bite - an unhappy situation all the way around. Candies and cookies can tempt the most wellmannered pet into becoming a thief. Chocolate can be extremely dangerous for cats and dogs alike - sometimes even causing death. Be careful with even gift wrapped boxes of candy under the tree - they are easily sniffed out and devoured. Remove temptation! Table food, especially the rich food we consume during the holidays, can cause severe internal distress for your pet and severe external distress for you. Vomit and diarrhea do not lend themselves to holiday decor. Feed with caution. If you are planning a holiday get-away try scheduling a pet sitter to come to your home. Many customers tell us this is an ideal situation. The pet feels secure at home and the family can feel good knowing Fido is safe. Ask friends, your favorite pet store, or vet office for recommendations. Last but not least, if you are planning on giving a live animal as a gift during the holidays make certain it will be a welcome gift. Pets are a commitment and need to be given to responsible parties who are willing to give of their time and love! Make certain you have included books, tapes or videos on how to care for the new pet. Education is a must! Make certain the new pet is not introduced into the commotion of Christmas day.

Leaving the known environment is tough enough without the stress of a house full of noise and strangers in a new environment. An alternative to the real thing is to gift wrap the supplies from the pet and include a photo of that special one and a date and time when it can be picked up. Reputable adoption agencies will accommodate you on this because they understand the importance of getting off to a good start. With some common sense and lots of good humor the holiday season can be joyful for all members of the family. Alyce Russell and her husband Tom own Andersen’s Pet Shop in Montrose/ Glendale.

Features Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

Picking the Perfect Pet Sitter

Reprinted with permission from National Association of Professional Pet Sitters

P

et ownership in the United States is continually on the rise. Currently, 63 percent of all American households have pets. The US pet population includes some 73 million dogs, 90 million cats and 16 million birds plus fish, hamsters and other animals. These pets are happiest when they’re home, surrounded by familiar sights, smells and sounds. For many years, pet owners faced a dilemma when they had to be away from home. Limited care options were available. One choice was boarding at a kennel or vet. Another was turning to family, friends, neighbors or a professional boarder. But these solutions were seldom ideal. A new alternative - pet sitting - has

changed all that. Today, pet sitters professional pet caregivers - look after an animal or animals, at home, while their owner is away. Pet sitting has taken the anxiety out of leaving a pet behind, which is why it is one of the nation’s fastest growing industries.

to confidently leave their pets home, knowing that they’ll receive the love and care they so rightly deserve.

Hiring a pet sitter is a serious process. Make sure the person you choose is trained and professional. He/she will not only be responsible for your pet, but also will have regular access to Pet sitting offers the best of all worlds your home. - for pets and their owners. Trauma is minimized. Owners need not go Once you have identified a potential through the ordeal of transporting pet sitter: unhappy pets and worrying that they • Develop a set of questions and might be exposed to other animals’ conduct a thorough interview illnesses. Animals get to stay in their • Ask for references familiar environment, maintain their • Request proof of bonding and diet and exercise routine and are liability insurance coverage attended to by caring professionals Continued on pg. 16 Professional pet sitting allows owners Pet Me! Magazine™

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Features Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

´ BONE APPETIT

Pet Food - Quality Counts! Jeff Katz, owner, Bone Appétit Pet Food Delivery

dry skin/coat, obesity and allergy symptoms.

Not all pet foods are created equal. Why? Most people are under the impression that commonly available commercial pet food products that they buy at their local grocery/pet store are fully meeting the nutritional needs of their pets. However, this is unfortunately not totally true.

In general, most pet owners are impulse-driven to buy certain brands of pet food based on celebrity endorsed products, colorful packaging, brand names made popular through expensive advertising campaigns, and breeder or third-party recommendations.

The majority of commercially available pet food products contain “fillers” that are essentially nondigestible. These include: corn, by-products, meat/bone meal, soy products, artificial colorings and chemical preservatives such as BHA & BHT (made from formaldehyde). These can lead to conditions such as

Instead, owners that want the best food for their pets should diligently check labels before making a purchase because like humans, an animal’s health largely depends on its diet.

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Ideally, pet food should be a highlydigestible, nutrient dense blend of ingredients. A protein or meat such

as chicken or lamb should be the number one ingredient, followed by healthy carbohydrates like rice, oatmeal or corn. Look for mixed tocopherols (a derivative of Vitamin E), which is a natural, healthy preservative. Bone Appétit Pet Food Delivery makes proper nutrition for your pet easy by offering only the highestquality, super-premium foods, which we deliver straight to your door. Our pet foods are guaranteed fresh and we are happy to arrange a delivery schedule to meet the needs of your household. Just one phone call can start your pet on the path of a healthy diet. Find out more by calling (661) 287-9000 today.

Features Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

Rats Why they make great pets!

A

nyone looking for a new pet wants a pet that is clean, socialized and well trained. Most people don’t know that these are all qualities of pet rats! There are many misconceptions about rats. People think that rats are unclean and carry disease. In fact, rats are quite clean and groom themselves several times a day. These aren’t sewer rats we’re talking about. These pet rats, or fancy rats as they’re called, have been domesticated and bred in captivity for at least 150 years. Rats are very intelligent animals. Some consider rats to have intelligence close or equal to that of dogs. Rats are capable of learning to come when their names are called. They can even be litter trained just as easily as training a cat. If you have any experience with other rodents such as hamsters, mice or gerbils you may be afraid of biting. This is almost unheard of with domesticated rats. Unlike their rodent cousins, rats are generally docile creatures. Most of the time rats just like to lay around, especially males. Rats can easily be trained to be good lap pets. In the wild, rats live together and have a complex social structure. These social instincts carry over to pet rats. Pet rats tend to develop strong bonds to humans and to their cage mates. So much so

that its common for rats to become very depressed when a cage mate passes away. Many apartments won’t allow dogs or cats, and it may simply be impractical to have larger pets in some houses. In those situations a pet rat is perfect. Cages for pet rats usually don’t consume much room at all which makes pet rats great for small apartments.

companions for the elderly. Go out and get your pet rat today! About The Author Scott McHenry and his wife have had a large number of pets of many different species. They have several years experience with rats and together run, www.ratanswers.com, a rat informational web site.

Rats are friendly and intelligent animals and make great first pets for children. Being clean and easy to care for makes them great Pet Me! Magazine™

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Features Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

Pet Sitter, continued from pg. 12 • Make sure he/she interacts well with your pet Services and fees can very widely. Be sure to determine: • What your needs are • Exactly how much services will cost In order for your pet sitter to provide the best care for your pet, he/she will need to know everything and anything about your animal. You should provide your pet sitter with answers to a number of questions: •

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What are your pet’s routines and schedules (eating, sleeping, walking, playing)? Does your pet have major or minor health problems? Does it require medication? If so, provide its location and schedule. What should be done in case of an emergency? Where do you keep your pet’s favorite toys? Is your dog a chewer? If so, make sure you provide the location of its chew toys. What are your pet’s favorite hiding places? (This will prevent a panic if your animal is nowhere to be found) Does your pet have any unusual habits (changes in bowel movements, eating habits, fears, etc.)?

Being prepared will help pave the way for a positive pet sitting experience: •

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• Also provide the pet sitter with written verification of up-to-date vaccinations (collar tags or copy of vaccination certificates). Make sure that your • pet has an identification tag with name, address and phone number (This goes for cats, as well as dogs).

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Make your pet sitting reservations as early as possible, especially prior to holidays. Have an extra house/apartment key made for the pet sitter. Make sure it works. Buy extra food, litter and supplies before you go away. Always buy a little extra in case you’re away longer than expected. Let the sitter know where to find cleaning tools - vacuum, mop, broom, dustpan, sponges, cleaners trash bags. Show the sitter where the fuse box/ circuit breaker is and where to find new fuses. Make sure your dog’s collar fits properly and includes an identification tag. Is your dog used to walking on a leash? If not, practice with him/her beforehand. If you are going to be away for a while, take steps to make sure everything is taken care of before you go. Leave a piece of clothing that you’ve recently worn near where your pet sleeps as a reminder of you. Display the name and phone number of your vet in a prominent place. Show it to the pet sitter before departing. Place out appropriate food and water bowls for your pet’s use. Clean them beforehand. Put everything needed for your pet’s care in a specific area so the sitter doesn’t have to search for leashes, food or medications. Let the sitter know where these items are.

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•

• •

If the sitter will be coming in the evening, hook up a timer light so he/she will not have to come to a dark house. It will be homier for your pet as well. Select a neighbor to keep an eye on your place while you’re gone. Let him/her know that a pet sitter will be coming to your home while you’re away. Provide him/her with a key in case of an emergency, inclement weather or in the event the pet sitter cannot make a scheduled visit. Give the pet sitter the neighbor’s name and phone number. Lastly, do as much as possible to ensure that things are safe and secure before you go away. Unplug any electrical appliances that will not be used to prevent injury to pets or damage during an electrical storm. Close the door on the clothes dryer. Consider leaving the radio on to keep your pet company (and deter crime). Clean up anything that might be accidentally swallowed by your pet (Christmas tree tinsel, pine needles, string, ribbon or other holiday items). Never leave your pet in the garage. Too many toxic substances may be stored there. If you feel you must, pet-proof the garage first. Make sure that indoor pets are inside. If your cat(s) escape(s) beforehand, let the sitter know to look for the animal(s) outside.

For more information, visit www.petsitters.org

Resources Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

Many plants are poisonous to dogs Know your plants Many plants are poisonous to dogs, so ingestion of these plants can be detrimental to their health. Be aware of what plants are accessible to your pet both inside and outside of your home. If you suspect your dog has eaten a toxic plant or is displaying symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Bipennifolium’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Flamingo Plant ‘Anthurium sp’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Florida Beauty ‘Dracaena spp’ • Foxglove ‘Digitalis Purpurea’ • Fruit Salad Plant ‘Philodendron Pertusum’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

A

G

• Aloe ‘Aloe Vera’ • Amaryllis • Andromeda ‘Pieris

• Glacier Ivy ‘Hedera Helix’ Japonica Japonica’

• Gladiolas • Glory Lily ‘Gloriosa Superba’

• Asian Lily ‘Liliaceae’

• Gold Dieffenbachia ‘Dieffenbachia Picta’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

• Asparagus Fern ‘Asparagus Sprengeri’ • Australian Nut ‘Macadamia Integrifolia’

• Gold Dust Dracaena ‘Dracaena Godseffiana’

• Autumn Crocus ‘ Colchicum Autumnale’ • Avocado ‘Persea Americana’

• Golden Pothos ‘Epipremnum Aureum’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

• Grapes / Raisins

• Azalea ‘Rhododendron spp’

• Christmas Rose ‘Helleborus Niger’

B

• Cordatum ‘Philodendron Oxycardium’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

• Green Gold Nephthysis ‘Syngonium Podophyllum’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

• Bird of Paradise ‘Caesalpinia Gilliesii’

• Corn Plant / Cornstalk Plant ‘Dracaena Fragrans Massangean’

• American Bittersweet ‘ Celastrus Scandens’ .

• Cycads ‘Cycad’ ‘Zamia’

• European Bittersweet ‘ Solanum Dulcamara’ • Branching Ivy ‘Hedera Helix’ • Buckeye ‘Aesculus spp’ • Buddist Pine ‘Podocarpus Macrophylla’

C

• Clematis ‘Clematis sp.’

• Cyclamen ‘Cyclamen spp’

D

• Horsehead Philodendron ‘Philodendron Bipennifolium’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

• Devil’s Ivy ‘Epipremnum Aureum’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

E

• Chinese Evergreen ‘Aglaonema Modestum’

• Heavenly Bamboo ‘Nandina Domestica’

• Day Lily ‘Hemerocallis Dumortier’

• Calla Lily ‘Zantedeschia Aethiopica’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Castor Bean ‘Ricinus Communis’

• Chinaberry Tree ‘Melia Azedarach’

• Heartleaf Philodendron ‘Philodendron Oxycardium’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Holly ‘Ilex spp’

• Dumb Cane ‘Dieffenbachia spp’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

• Charming Diffenbachia ‘Dieffenbachia Amoena’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

• Hahn’s self branching English Ivy ‘Hedera Helix’

• Daffodil ‘Narcissus spp’

• Caladium ‘Caladium Hortulanum’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

• Ceriman / Cutleaf Philodendron ‘Monstera Deliciosa’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

H

• Elephant Ears ‘Caladium Hortulanum’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Emerald Feather / Emerald Fern ‘ Asparagus Densiflorus’ • English Ivy ‘Hedera Helix’ .

F

• Hurricane Plant ‘Monstera Deliciosa’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Hyacinth ‘Hyacinthus orientalis’ • Hydrangea ‘Hydrangea macrophylla’ • Iris ‘Iris sp.’

J • Japanese Show Lily ‘Lilium sp.’ • Jerusalem Cherry ‘Solanum Pseudocapsicum’

Continued on pg. 18

• Fiddle-Leaf Philodendron ‘Philodendron Pet Me! Magazine™

17

Resources

Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

Poisonous Plants, continued from pg. 17

K

Q

W

• Kalanchoe ‘Kalanchoe spp’

• Queensland Nut ‘Macadamia Integrifolia’

L

R

• Warneckei Dracaena ‘Dracaena Deremensis’

• Lace Fern ‘Asparagus Setaceus’

• Red Emerald ‘Philodendron’

• Lacy Tree ‘Philodendron Selloum’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

Toxic attribute: calcium oxalate crystals

• Lily of the Valley ‘Convallaria Majalis’

• Red-Margined Dracaena / Straight- Margined Dracaena ‘Dracaena Marginata’

• Red Lily ‘Lilium Umbellatum’

Y • Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow ‘Brunfelsia Australis’ • Yew / Japanese Yew ‘Taxus’ • Yucca ‘Yucca sp’

M

• Red Princess ‘Philodendron’

• Macadamia Nut ‘Macadamia Integrifolia’

Toxic attribute: calcium oxalate crystals

A majority of the plants listed above contain

• Madagascar Dragon Tree ‘Dracaena Marginata’

• Rhododendron ‘Rhododendron spp’

calcium oxalate crystals. Calcium oxalate

Toxic attribute: grayantoxin

crystals is a chemical found naturally in plants

• Marble Queen ‘Scindapsus Aureus’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Marijuana ‘Cannabis Sativa’

• Ribbon Plant ‘Dracaena Sanderiana’ • Rubrum Lily ‘Lilium spp’

such as dumb cane and rhubarb leaves. The amount of calcium oxalate crystals varies amongst species of plant. The crystals are

• Mexican Breadfruit ‘Monstera Deliciosa’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

S

quite sharp and abrasive and ingestion of

• Mistletoe (American) ‘Phoradendron spp’

• Saddle Leaf Philodendron ‘Philodendron Selloum’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

and irritation injuries. Eating large amounts

• Morning Glory ‘Ipomoea spp’ • Mother-in-Law ‘Monstera Deliciosa’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

N • Narcissus ‘Narcissus spp’ • Needlepoint Ivy ‘Hedera Helix’ • Nephthytis ‘Syngonium Podophyllum’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Nightshade / Deadly Nightshade / Black Nightshade / Silverleaf Nightshade ‘Solanum spp’

O

• Sago Palm ‘Cycas’ and ‘Zamia’ species • Satin Pothos ‘Scindapsus’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Schefflera ‘Brassaia Actinophylla’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Spotted Dumb Cane ‘Dieffenbachia Picta’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Striped Dracaena ‘Dracaena Deremensis’ • Sweetheart Ivy ‘Hedera Helix’ • Swiss Cheese Plant ‘Monstera Deliciosa’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

T

• Oleander ‘Nerium Oleander’

• Taro Vine ‘Scindapsus Aureus’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

• Onion ‘Allium spp’

• Tomato Plant ‘Lycopersicon spp’

P • Panda ‘Philodendron Panduraeforme’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Peace Lily / Maana Loa Peace Lily ‘Spathiphyllum’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Philodendron Pertusum ‘Philodendron (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Plumosa Fern ‘Asparagus Plumosus’ • Precatory Bean ‘Abrus Precatorius’

18 Pet Me! Magazine™

• Tree Philodendron • Tropic Snow Dumbcane ‘Dieffenbachia Amoena’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

plants containing them can cause abrasive can cause kidney and liver damage and even death in serious cases.

Adopt Me! Tellulah is 4 years old. Terrible neglect left her with rickets, but she gets around just fine. She loves to sit in your lap and make up for lost time, she is fine with smaller dogs. She loves her stuffed bear and carries it everywhere with her.

• Tulip

V • Variable Dieffenbachia ‘Dieffenbachia Picta’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals) • Variegated Philodendron ‘Scindapsus’ ‘Philodendron spp’ (contains calcium oxalate crystals)

CONTACT 661-296-2020

VOL. 1 • ISSUE 1 • DEC/JAN 2009

Mailed to 15,000 Pet-Loving Homes in the SCV

Picking the Perfect

Pet Sitter

Safe Holiday Tips Why Rats

Make Great Pets

Plants

Dogs Should Avoid Taking Care Of

Older Cats

Santa Clarita • Valencia • Stevenson Ranch • Castaic • Canyon Country • Newhall • Saugus

Pet Me! Magazine™

19

Resources

Pet Me! Magazine™ DEC/JAN 2009

Southern California Shelters Agoura Hills Animal Shelter

29525 Agoura Road Agoura Hills, CA 91301 (818) 991-0071 http://animalcare.lacounty.gov/

Baldwin Park Animal Shelter

4275 N. Elton Baldwin Park, CA 91706 (626) 962-3577 http://animalcare.lacounty.gov/

Bellflower City Animal Shelter

East Valley Animal Shelter

13131 Sherman Way North Hollywood, CA 91605 (888) 452-7381 www.laanimalservices.com

Glendale Humane Society 717 West Ivy Street Glendale, CA 91204 (818) 242-1128 (818) 242-4565 www.glendalehumane.org

16600 Civic Center Dr. Bellflower, CA 90706 (562) 804-1424

Glendora City Animal Control 150 South Glendora Avenue Glendora, CA 91741 (626) 914-8275

Burbank Animal Shelter

Harbor Animal Shelter

1150 Victory Place Burbank, CA 91502 (818) 238-3340

Carson Animal Shelter 216 W. Victoria Gardena, CA 90248 (310) 523-9566 http://animalcare.lacounty.gov/

Castaic Animal Shelter

31044 North Charlie Canyon Road Castaic, CA 91384 (661) 257-3191 http://animalcare.lacounty.gov/

Commerce City Animal Control

2535 Commerce Way Commerce, CA 90040 (323) 722-4805

Downey Animal Shelter

11258 South Garfield Downey, CA 90242 (562) 940-6001 http://animalcare.lacounty.gov/

Duarte City Animal Control

1040 E. Huntington Drive Duarte, CA 91010 (626) 357-7938

2

Pet Me! Magazine™

957 N. Gaffey Street San Pedro, CA 90731 (888) 452-7381 www.laanimalservices.com

Hermosa Beach Animal Control

1035 Valley Drive Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 (310) 318-0209

Inland Valley Humane Society & SPCA 500 Humane Way Pomona, CA (909) 623-9777

Lancaster Animal Shelter

5210 West Avenue I Lancaster, CA 93536 (661) 940-4191 http://animalcare.lacounty.gov/

North Central (Los Angeles) Animal Shelter

3201 Lacy Street Los Angeles, CA 90031 (888) 452-7381 www.laanimalservices.com

Pasadena Humane Society

361 S. Raymond Ave. Pasadena, CA 91105 (626) 792-7151 www.phsspca.org

Pet Harbor

328 West Redondo Beach Blvd. Gardena, CA 90248. (310) 324-2325

San Gabriel Valley Humane Society

851 East Grand Avenue San Gabriel, CA 91776 (626) 286-1159

Santa Monica City Shelter

1640 9th Street Santa Monica, CA 90404 (310) 458-8594

SEAACA

9777 Seaaca Street Downey, CA 90241 (562) 803-3301

South Central (Los Angeles) Animal Shelter 3320 West 36th Street Los Angeles, CA 90018 (888) 452-7381 www.laanimalservices.com

SPCA L.A.

5026 West Jefferson Los Angeles, CA 90016 (888) 772-2521 www.spcala.com SPCA LA Los Angeles 12910 Yukon Ave Hawthorne, CA 90250 (310) 676-1149 www.spcala.com

West (Los Angeles) Animal Shelter

11950 Missouri Los Angeles, CA 90025 (888) 452-7381 www.laanimalservices.com

West Valley Animal Shelter

20655 Plummer St. Chatsworth, CA 91311 (888) 452-7381 www.laanimalservices.com