Pet Gazette June 2009

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PET GAZETTE SS SE

Covering Southeastern, Mass and Cape Cod VOLUME 12 NO. 6

Published by Clipper Press

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ADVERTISING: 781-934-2811 x23 or [email protected] JUNE 2009

“You want a friend in Washington? Get a dog.” ~ Harry S. Truman

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Coloring Contest Winner!

516 Washington Street Hanover, MA 02339 Sunday Appointment Hours Available! Full surgical and diagnostic services, including ultrasound and specialty services by our Board Certified Cardiologist and Internist .. . . . . . . . . . . . “A Lifetime of Veterinary Care”

Winner of the Pet Gazette’s first coloring contest, Casey Kelliher, poses for a picture with her dog Katie. Kelliher, 10, lives in Quincy and received a gift basket with pet related toys and books. Congratulations Casey!

The Pet Gazette The Pet Gazette is published by Clipper Press, a family-owned company based on the South Shore since 1950.The Pet Gazette covers all of Southeastern, Massachusetts and Cape Cod. The Pet Gazette is a registered trademark.

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Pet Gazette Staff Production: Lindsey Gardner Layout: Sandra Guidetti; Advertising: Robin Nudd Publisher: Josh Cutler; Contributors: Becca Manning, Justin Graeber, George Sommers, Nicole Birkholzer, Gerald F. Williamson.

DELIVERY ADDRESS: 11 So. Station Street, Duxbury MAILING ADDRESS: Pet Gazette, PO Box 1656, Duxbury, MA 02331 Contact US:781-934-2811, ext. 23 • [email protected]

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Pet Gazette

June 2009

Canine cataracts SAVING

YOUR DOG’S SIGHT

DR. PATRICK WELCH, DVM, DACVO

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asmine, a two-yearold American Cocker Spaniel, was generating some concern for her owners. Recently, they had noticed that Jasmine was bumping into the door when it was closed; was afraid to go down the stairs; and was tripping over books left on the floor. Over the course of several months, they noted that her eyes were looking different, almost frosty or white. Her behavior changes continued until they had no doubt -- Jasmine couldn't see. When the family brought Jasmine to their local veterinarian, they found out that Jasmine had cataracts in both eyes. They were overwhelmed by the news! Why would such a young dog have cataracts? Could medication help or would Jasmine need surgery? Their veterinarian referred them to a veterinary ophthalmologist. When I met Jasmine's owners, they were frightened and confused. As a board-cer-

Cassandra Kelley, D.V.M.

There is no medical therapy for cataracts. Veterinary ophthalmologists treat animal cataracts with the same elective surgery used on humans -- phacoemulsification. tion during development, sys- lens fibers become denser and temic disease (e.g. diabetes), the lens can appear slightly or a multitude of other causes gray or hazy. This condition is called nuclear sclerosis and may cause cataracts. Heredity is probably the is a perfectly normal aging most common cause of cata- change that doesn't affect viracts, however. Many breeds sion or require treatment. Jasmine's owners were (including the American Cocker Spaniel) develop cata- thrilled to learn that their pupracts at a relatively early age py's vision could be restored. due to a genetic problem that Jasmine remained in the hosis passed on from their par- pital for 48 hours after her surents. Based on her age and gery so we could monitor her breed, Jasmine probably in- progress closely and administer antibiotic and anti-inflamherited her cataracts. matory medications. She was discharged to the care of her “It is a common misconception that all dogs get doting guardians. After the surgery, Jascataracts as they get older. In fact, most dogs never mine's owners had to adminisdevelop cataracts.” ter several topical medications up to four times per day as well tified veterinary ophthalmoloas oral medications. Although There is no medical thergist, I was able to answer their questions and allay most of apy for cataracts. Veterinary the post-operative home care their fears. With the help of a ophthalmologists treat animal was very demanding, Jasvariety of special equipment, cataracts with the same elec- mine's owners were happy to I confirmed that little Jasmine tive surgery used on humans play any part in ensuring the did have cataracts in both -- phacoemulsification. The success of surgery! In a few eyes. I examined the animal's surgeon makes a small (3mm) short weeks, Jasmine was back eyes thoroughly to ensure that incision in the eye, uses an ul- to normal; the only things she all other eye structures were trasonic handpiece to shatter occasionally tripped over were the cataract, and aspirates the her long, floppy ears! functioning normally. Dr. Patrick Welch is a DipA cataract is a non-pain- debris from the eye. Once the lomate of the American College cataract is removed, the doctor ful condition of the lens. The of Veterinary Ophthalmoloinserts a prosthetic intraocucrystalline lens is a living tisgists and staff ophthalmologist lar lens implant (IOL), which sue within the eye that is normally transparent. Any opac- helps to restore normal vision. at VCA South Shore Animal ity within the lens is called a The procedure requires gener- Hospital. He is available for cataract. The opacity may be a al anesthesia and takes about consultations regarding eye problems in all animal spesmall white dot or plaque that 45 minutes per eye. It is a common miscon- cies. To speak with Dr. Welch doesn't interfere with vision or ception that all dogs get cata- about your pet's condition or it may involve the whole lens racts as they get older. In fact, to set up an appointment, call and cause blindness. Ocular most dogs never develop cata- 781-337-6622. trauma, inflammation within racts. As your dog ages, her the eye (uveitis), poor nutri-

June 2009

PET GAZETTE

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Pe t p o u r r i Send items for the Petpourri page to [email protected] The Deadline is the 12th of each month.

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Capture the moment in style

or many, a pet is part of the family, so photos of them deserve a proper place on the mantle along with the rest of your mugs. A new line of photo frames by AB Designs is geared specially toward capturing those precious moments with pets. The Animal House collection is made of solid wood in a variety of shades and is decorated with high-quality silk ribbons and crystal embellishments in pet themes (like a faux-diamond encrusted dog bone) — creating a truly classy

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A half century of hospitality and caring for the pets of the South Shore 4

Boston is one of the Top 10 Cat Cities

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ats are king in Boston, according to a recent survey by the CATalyst Council, an organization that aims to “raise the stature of America’s number one companion.” This spring, Boston was named as one of the top 10 cat-friendly cities in the country in the council’s 2009 listing based on a list of criteria applied to the nation’s 25 largest metro areas. The number of cats per capita figured in the decision, as did the number of feline practitioners, veterinarians and hospi-

tals, number of cat shows held and number of Cat Fancy magazine subscribers — with extra points given for having favorable licensing ordinances, Society of Animal Welfare Administrators shelters and a mayor who owns a cat. Most of the top contenders were clustered on the western coast — Phoenix, Seattle and San Francisco among them — but Ithaca, N.Y. received an honorable mention. For more on CATalyst’s survey or to find out about the organization, visit catalystcouncil.org.

Hitting the road: Share your video tails

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V owners who plan to hit the road this summer and take their pets along should also bring along a video camera, with the possibility of winning $1,000 and a GPS system through a contest on GoRVing.com. The RV aficionado Web site’s first-ever Internet video contest, hosted by Facebook, asks pet owners to create a positive, humorous video (1-5 minutes long) of their animal traveling in an RV, with plenty of room for creativity (it can even be shot from Fido’s perspective, the site suggests). Entries can be submitted from June 1 through July 10 and should be uploaded to the Go RVing Facebook page at facebook.com/GoRVing. Videos will be judged be people through the Facebook

Pet Gazette

page, with the grand prize-winner receiving $1,000 and a Motorola Motonav GPS. Second place is $500. For contest rules, visit GoRVing. com. Winners will be announced Aug. 5.

June 2009

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Marvel introduces Pet Avengers miniseries

companion to The Falcon), Hairball (Speedball’s cat) and Frog Thor (an amphibious version of the Nordic God of Thunder). Together, these furry, feathered and otherwise unusual superheroes team up to, of course, save the world from imminent threat. Written by Chris Eliopoulos and drawn by Ig Guara, the book sells for $2.99 and is available in comic shops where other Marvel titles are sold. Visit comicshoplocater.com to find a store near you or visit marvel.com for details about the series.

ehind every great man is a fantastic pet, or so appears the thinking behind a new series by Marvel Comics, “Lockjaw and the Pet Avengers.” The four-part miniseries, which debuted May 13 with a full-color, 32-page issue, gives center stage to the animal companions of several Marvel superheroes, including Lockjaw (an oversized bulldog with the ability to teleport), Lockheed (an alien dragon), Redwing (bird

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Paperback explores healing power of dogs

ew in paperback, Sharon Sakson’s “Paws & Effect” is a well-researched, interesting book that explores the healing power of dogs. Sakson said she was inspired to delve into the subject after receiving an overwhelming response from her previous book “Paws and Reflect,” which explores the bond between men and their dogs. Through her research for that book, Sakson said she discovered an unanticipated theme: that dogs don’t just bond with their humans; they heal them. In “Paws & Effect,” Sakson expands on this idea, starting with her personal experience as a child coping with her mother’s illness and

continuing with a look at the role dogs have played over time — including a fascinating story of the Xoloitzcuintli, a hairless dog bred by the Aztecs and used like a living heating pad to heal aches and pains — up to modernday canines that are finding cancer or working as therapy dogs. Originally released in 2007 by Spiegel & Grau, “Paws & Effect” is due out in paperback on June 9 and retails for $14. Find it online at spiegelandgrau.com or at local and online bookstores.

New Breed of Detective Novel

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ooking for a light beach read this summer? Come July, you can check out a new breed of detective novel, “The Unscratchables” by Cornelius Kane (a pseudonym for Australian author Anthony O’Neill). Whether or not you’re a fan of mysteries, this funny little novel is worth a look, introducing its readers to the world of San Bernardo, where dogs run the show (except for on the nearby island of Kathattan) and where Detective Max “Crusher” McNash is on the trail of a killer. To solve the crime, he’ll have to team up with Cassius Lap, an agent from the FBI (Feline Bureau of Investigation), and let’s just say Crusher is a little prejudiced about his new partner. Full of wit and attitude, “Unscratchables” is a serious story that doesn’t take itself too seriously, blending hard-nosed detective talk with clever dog-centered language that is both believable and hilarious. “The Unscratchables,” a 272-page paperback, will be released by Scribner in early July. Pre-order it now at simonandschuster.com or at area or online bookstores. For more about the book, the author or to see sketches of the characters, check out theunscratchables.com.

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VETERINARY EMERGENCY TREATMENT & SPECIALTIES

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TOUGH BEGINNINGS. HAPPY ENDINGS. We are a 501c3 all-breed rescue group with a network of foster homes in the south and in New England. Please check out our available dogs at www.foreverhomerescue.org

June 2009

CAPE COD KENNEL CLUB, INC. DOG TRAINING CLASSES

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Pet Gazette

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Whisker Walk 2009 Benefit walk for homeless animals

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n Sunday June 7 the Nation’s first and only multiorganizational dog walk and benefit is being held at the Lancaster Fairground in Lancaster, Mass on Rt.117. Thousands of people and their dogs from all over New England are expected to descend on 50 acres of pet loving paradise with almost 100 pet related groups, companies, vendors, sponsors and manufacturers and animal rescue groups in attendance! The 2009 Whisker Walk will be an “event not to be missed” for pet lovers and their dogs with a unique twist…a blessing of the animals kicks off the noon multi-organizational dog walk! Come see spectacular exhibits, demonstrations, handson animal petting opportunities, educational programs, special attractions, pet adoptions, product giveaways, entertainment, lots of food, fun and things for adults and kids to see, do and buy! Doors opens to the public at 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. - Walk starts at noon. Centrally located — just minutes from Rt. 2, Rt. 190, 495 and only 20 minutes from Worcester and 30 miles from Boston! 50+ acres of flat, shaded paths (handicapped accessible) the grounds are enormous and beautiful. No admission fees. Bring your family and your dogs. Other pets must stay home.

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Vaccinations for Dogs

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How

often is too often?

By Tiffany J. Rule, DVM

n the past, the veterinary community advocated annual vaccinations for all pets. Most pet owners did due diligence and took their pet dog or cat to the vet for “yearly shots.” As veterinary science has become more advanced, there is more information in the field of immunology available to veterinarians. There are two major veterinary organizations that have put forth an effort to study issues surrounding the vaccination of our beloved pets. Many veterinarians wishing to stay abreast of the most current veterinary science now recommend less frequent vaccinations as well as vaccine programs customized to each individual’s disease risk. While vaccinations are recommended less frequently, more attention is being paid to preventative care including regular laboratory screening of blood and urine samples. Finally, some veterinarians are recommending more frequent physical examinations: Once every six months rather than once per year. The investigation into vaccine frequency in the cat was primarily precipitated by the scourge of vaccine associated cancer, namely, fibrosarcoma. This phenomenon has not been reported in the dog. Neverthe-

While vaccinations are recommended less frequently, more attention is being paid to preventative care including regular laboratory screening of blood and urine samples. Finally, some veterinarians are recommending more frequent physical examinations: Once every six months rather than once per year. as different individuals inherit differences in their immune systems. We would need to challenge many dogs at many points in life to truly determine the efficacy of a given vaccination. Recently, the American Animal Hospital Association has studied and published recommendations for canine vac-

“Could vaccinating a dog every year for disease result in chronic health problems?” less, the question remains, do dogs really need to be vaccinated once per year for every disease? Could vaccinating a dog every year for every disease result in chronic health problems? Some immunologists have speculated that only two vaccinations are needed for life: An initial vaccine followed by a booster to impart lifelong immunity against some diseases in the dog. This may be true, but for now this is only a speculation. For veterinarians to safely recommend a vaccine’s duration, it must first be studied. This means challenge studies must be performed. A challenge study involves vaccinating a dog against a specific disease, for instance, canine parvovirus, and then exposing that dog to live, virulent virus at some point later in its life. If a vaccination could protect a dog for life, then exposing a 13-year-old dog to canine parvovirus after this dog only had initial vaccinations as a puppy would not harm the dog. One dog would not be enough to study this question however,

Pet Gazette

cinations. These recommendations are similar to those made by the AAFP, in that they identify recommended and not-recommended vaccinations and stipulate vaccine frequency. For adult dogs there is good evidence that the protection conferred by canine parvovirus and canine distemper exceeds five years. According to the taskforce, three years seemed a conservative, happy medium. The current threeyear vaccination for dogs is labeled for use every three years and has not yet been labeled to use for a longer duration of time. Puppies should still be vaccinated at 6-8 weeks, 9-11 weeks, and 12-14 weeks with three weeks in between each vaccination for canine distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus type-2. The decrease in vaccination frequency pertains only to adult dogs. As is the case for feline vaccination recommendations, not every dog needs to be vaccinated every year with every available vaccination. Progressive veterinary care includes vaccination of each pet according to his or her in-

dividual disease risk and not necessarily every year. There is much discussion about vaccination titer testing. This is a procedure where a blood sample is drawn, submitted to a laboratory, and the sample then tested for antibodies to canine distemper and/or canine parvovirus. A high titer tells us that there is a high level of antibodies in circulation. The conventional wisdom states that a high titer can give one an idea or some confidence that protection exists. A low titer however is not conclusive as a titer only examines humoral immunity, which is one of two main parts of the immune system. Cell mediated immunity is the other arm of the immune system that a titer cannot measure. For example, an animal with a very low titer may have excellent immunity against canine parvovirus. Many veterinarians feel that titer testing is not helpful at this time. Many of us hope that this technology is perfected and appropriate challenge studies are performed, as it would be ideal to vaccinate animals according to measurable need rather than on an arbitrary basis. Additionally, there may well be more results on studies of duration of immunity that will further alter how and when we vaccinate our dogs. Dr. Rule is a veterinarian at Dedham Veterinary Associates and advocates vaccination for dogs and cats as recommended by AAHA and the AAFP. Originally published in the January 2006 edition of the Pet Gazette.

June 2009

Look like your dog? Win $1Mil.

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ll American Pet Company, makers of super premium dog food brands Bow Wow Breakfast Cereal and Grrr-nola Natural Dog Food, announces its first ever Bow Wow Million Dollar Look-a-Like Contest. Starting Monday, June 1 dog owners will have the opportunity to submit a picture of themselves and their dog to show the world how much they look alike. The finalists from these submissions will be given the chance to win the grand prize of $1 million dollars. The deadline for submissions is Sunday, July 2. Dog owners who wish to submit their photos for this competition should visit www. bowwowmillion.com and fol-

low the Contest entry form and upload a digital photo which includes both the owner and Look-A-Like. There will be eight weekly competitions held during the contest entry period in which contestants can enter by region. Every audience member can vote up to five times for their favorite contestant every week. At the end of each week, the judges will determine the top scoring entries that will advance as Semi-Finalists. Thereafter, all Semi-Finalists entries will be judged by a selection committee who will determine the Finalist entries so a nationwide audience can vote for its favorite Finalist. Each and every audience member can vote up to five times

for its favorite Finalist. At the end of this round, the Finalists with the highest votes from audience voting participation will become eligible for the National Championship where a panel of judges will determine the Grand Prize winner and Runner-up winners. After the judging is over, one finalist will be declared the national Look-a-Like Champion and will win the Grand prize of $1 Million Dollars an each Runner-up winner will win $5,000 cash plus a one year supply of dog food. For more information, visit the All American Pet web site at www.aapbrands.com

pet Drawing of the month

Top Dog of the Month Penny

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his is Penny – a 17 year old English Setter. She’s been our family dog since 1990 – at the ripe old age of one. She was spotted by mother straight away – jumping and carrying on in her crate – and, we were asked if we would like to take her outside – sort of like a test drive. I suggested that my mom make her decision while we were outside as there were others looking at the dogs and mother had a habit of procrastinating and later regretting unmade decisions. The staff got her ready to go. The ensuing racket caused mother to glance at the boy next to us with his dog sitting calmly at his side. She turned to me, “Do you think I made a mistake?” I promptly answered no, but sure did wonder myself that day. Penny gladly fell in line at her new home and became a steadfast companion to mother

June 2009

“Ace” By Mary Hachey, 7 Our kids coloring contest last month was so popular we’ve decided to continue it as a monthly feature. Send us a drawing of your family pet along with a brief write-up. We’ll select one drawing per issue and feature it here. Winners will also receive a free subscription to the Pet Gazette. Guidelines Open to children 14 and under. Work should be on a 8.5 x 11 sheet of white paper with no lines. Please use colored pencils or crayons. Entries must include the name and age of child, parent’s name and contact information, including phone. Please include a brief description including your pet’s name. – and anyone else with food. She fit in from the start and grew on Mom, Dad, and her sisters as well as the neighbors. She loved squirrels and jumping over six-foot fences. But, time went on and mother became ill. Penny never left her side and went bravely on – ever faithful and always ready

for her nightly bowl of Farrar’s ice cream. The secret to longevity – but, don’t tell the vet!! She sits quietly at my side awaiting her supper tonight. So, no mom, for the second and final time, you did not make a mistake.

Pet Gazette

Mail entries to: PET GAZETTE, PO BOX 1656, DUXBURY, MA 02331

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Who gets the puppy in the divorce? By Gerald F. Williamson Esq. Pet Gazette Columnist

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: My husband and I are getting a divorce after 26 years of marriage. We have two grown kids (on their own). We each have a car and the home is paid for. We will split the sale of the proceeds. There will be alimony for six months only. Here's the problem: Our twoyear old female cockapoo is worth $10,000 to me. Our one-year old AKC certified male Siberian husky (complete with one brown and one blue eye), we agree is worth at least $3,500, especially as a breeder. Can the probate judge decide who gets which dog? I want the cockapoo (I bought her). The Siberian was a gift from a relative. How do you settle the valuation question?

Does it matter who bought which dog or whose relative made a gift to you? The probate courts say no. Your fourfooted “kids” are not subject to the rules pertaining to custody, interim support, and visitation as with children. Instead, they are unceremoniously labeled as “personal property of the marital estate” and are legally disposed of under a different genre of divorce laws. If you and Mr. Spouse cannot agree on the relative value of these pets, and if their relative value of these pets, and if their respective values are truly important to you, they can be appraised, just like a stamp collection or a set of antique trains. If one opinion of value is not sufficient, you can submit the matter to binding arbitration, or simply use more than one appraiser. Writing the pups into a divorce agreement need not be difficult at all. A simple written, signed stipulation should do the trick, which will become incorporated into the divorce agreement, to be approved by the judge. (An ID chip is highly recommended.) A few years ago we had the daunting task of assigning a black lab and a border collie to Bonny and an adopted husky to Steve. Visitation never reared its furry head: Bonny moved to New Jersey and Steve remained in the Commonwealth. Good Luck!

Paws & the law

A: A probate judge wryly commented in open court: “If you folks had worked half as hard at your marriage as you are working at your divorce, I'd probably be out of a job!!” In any case, many marriages, even those made in Heaven,

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can go awry, even after many years of commitment by the parties. So, what happens to the furry “property” here? In order to establish meaningful rules as to alimony and property settlement, we have been given Chap. 208, Sect. 34 of the Not-So-General Laws of the Commonwealth. In passing, please note that alimony is not a one-way money sluice

Cape Cod Animal Hospital has been in continuous operation since 1930 and will be rebuilt. The hospital will continue to serve this wonderful community.

Scott E. Munson, VMD Melaine L. Bikis, DVM Heidi A. McMorrow, DVM 1411 Osterville Road West Barnstable

from hubby's checkbook to yours. (Ask Liz Taylor, who has been on the paying end of an alimony order more than once!) Alimony is, essentially, support monies paid to either husband or wife, after the court considers a veritable shopping list of entitlement factors. Is “puppy” settlement treated the same? The short answer is yes, with some quasi-legal factors to consider. Is your darling cockapoo worth any more or less because she cannot be certified by the AKC? (Our local vet has opined that it could be four or five generations of very selective breeding before the cockapoo could be tagged as a “new” breed). Until then, your furry cutie must remain a very high priced “designer mongrel.” I would not advise you to put a $10,000 FMV (fair market value) on this puppy, even if you love her that much. Ironically, the Siberian, a recognized pure breed, sans sentimental value, but carrying a full complement of reproductive gear, can be worth big bucks.

Silly statute of the month You can be arrested in New Hampshire for poaching a deer or a bear, but only if you qualify as a natural person!! Got a question about animal law? Send your questions and feedback to Attorney Williamson and you may see it in a future column. He can be reached at [email protected] or by mail to Attorney Gerald Williamson, 71 Legion Parkway, Brockton, MA 02301

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Pet Gazette

June 2009

Goldfish/Koi Pond ‘Orientation’

By George Sommers Pet Gazette Columnist

H

uge, gaudy koi glide among waterlilies under miniature wooden bridges and by waterfalls in Japanese style garden ponds - an inspiration for many an American fishpond. In fact, for the centuries old origins of “artificial” pond keeping and probably the aquarium hobby itself; go East, young man (or woman - or older man or woman). This tradition can be honored in a fun way by adding some Oriental embellishments to your local garden-variety pond. If you can’t swing a ticket for the Oriental Express; catch the Orange Line to Chinatown. (Parking can be tough to find and/or expensive.) Local garden stores don’t typically break out pond supplies until mid-May, reasoning that ”pond season” lasts about 4 months. (Those of us who keep ponds year-round beg to duffer, but that’s for future stories!) The first Oriental treasure for the modern day Marco Polo to seek is the lucky bamboo, sold in Oriental specialty shops, and open air markets in mild weather Lucky bamboos thrive in an aquatic environment, but with their minimal roots they need to be solidly anchored by aquarium-appropriate gravel, or marbles. Tall ones break the water surface, like a reed marsh providing fish with shade and a respite area.

You can get a Chinese checker jumpstart on your water gardening this way as most commercial water garden plants are tropical natives, and not generally available before mid-May. You can also purchase bamboos in specialty shops at many malls but they tend to be a bit more pricy – and the cultural experience isn’t quite the same! Gold is always a prized commodity among traders, and a store in Chinatown has a large selection of goldfish and koi. Shubunkins, calicoes and comets are the best pond goldfish. Fantail type varieties are not built for speed and aren’t as well equipped for a semi-wild existence of preda-

Fish & fowl

into nishikikoi, or koi. A bizarre goldfish from Korea known as celestial eyes has eyes that stick out to the side and face directly up, bred by monks so the fish would gaze heavenward. Goldfish and koi are celebrated in Chinese art and culture, and depicted on icons made of wood, metal and other materials usually adorned with red tassles. A couple of these hang in a place of honor by the windchimes on the “shores” of this writer’s pond. Budget permitting, you can always add that wooden footbridge or waterfall. After a day’s trading along the Silk Road, you can always East meets West: Oriental icons decorate a Massachusetts fish opt for some General Gao capond. -Photo by George Sommers shew chicken, a mai tai and fortune cookies before heading home to add your Oriental tor evasion and food competi- aquarists took drab green, booty to your garden pond. ordinary-looking fish called tion. Check out more by this The original “wild gold- Crucian carp and turned writer on examiner.com bosfish” looked no more like to- them into the fantails, moors, ton under PETS and also on day’s fancy goldfish than a shubunkins, etc. of today. E-How.com poodle resembles its wolf-like Meanwhile, Japanese hobbyancestors. Master Chinese ists bred another carp species

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June 2009

The Best of Quality Care for Every Stage of Your Pet’s Life!

Pet Gazette

9

The Portuguese Water Dog

I

a fun, friendly breed

By Becca Manning, Pet Gazette Staff

n April, President Barack Obama decided to make good on his Election Night promise to daughters Malia and Sasha by adopting a Portuguese Water Dog. That’s when Stu Freeman’s phone started ringing off the hook. As president of the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America, Freeman said he has given about 80 interviews since the Obamas announced their decision to adopt Bo, a six-month-old black-andwhite Portuguese Water Dog given to them by U.S. Sen. Ted Kennedy. “We have seen a lot of increase in interest in our Web site. A few days right before the president got his dog, there were millions of hits. We don’t get that much in the whole year,” Freeman said recently. Though interest in the breed has increased, Freeman said the process for adopting a Portuguese Water Dog has not changed. “Some of us who are breeders have gotten more calls, but the procedures we use to give somebody a dog are no different than they were before the president got his dog,” Freeman said, adding that he was concerned that “puppy mills” might get involved and attempt to rapidly breed the dogs without proper testing in order to meet demand. “It’s not like making more Chevrolets —  you’ve got to wait for the ladies to go into season and the boys to make puppies,” Freeman said. When a breed becomes “trendy” irresponsible breeding can become a problem, said Jeff Barrow, DVM, owner of Marshfield Animal Hospital. “[Some people] see it as an opportunity to make money

because there’s more demand and they can get more money for them,” Barrow said. “These breeders may find a male and female that are not necessarily a good example of the breed — they may have genetic medical problems or a bad temperament — and they start breeding them.” Prospective owners should look for breeders who are recognized by the American Kennel Club and who have been breeding Portuguese Water Dogs ideally for at least 10 years, Barrow said. Find AKC-approved breeders online at akc.org/classified. Here’s another “buyer beware”: The Portuguese Water Dog is not an inexpensive breed. These dogs typically cost upwards of $1,400. Barrow said he doesn’t see many “Porties” — as they are sometimes called — at the Marshfield Animal Hospital but expects to see a few more

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The identity of the Obamas’ First Puppy was revealed in mid April, when the President announced his family had adopted a six-month-old Portuguese Water Dog, given to them by U.S. Sen. Ted Kennedy. Daughters Sasha and Malia reportedly chose the name “Bo” because they have cousins with a cat of the same name and because Michelle Obama’s father was nickPhotos of Bo by Pete Souza, whitehouse.gov named Diddley after the late musician Bo Diddley. in the near future, particularly if Obama wins a second term. “Anytime a President owns a dog they always become more popular, and that’s not so much a good thing. You have a lot of people going out and getting these trendy dogs and they don’t realize they have certain requirements,” Barrow said. Some of those requirements are a space to run and time to be active with these dogs, Barrow said. “They’re a sporting breed and they have a lot of energy. They’re appropriately named, because they do like to swim,” he said. As someone who has raised Portuguese Water Dogs for many years, Freeman said he understands their appeal, but he also knows that, like any dog, they have their challenges. “The puppies are adorable, as you can see with Bo Obama. You can see from the pictures he’s a cute puppy, and Mrs. Obama has said how nutty he is. That’s typical,” Freeman said. “Having puppies is sort of like having a toddler in the house. They wander around looking to get into trouble.” Male Portuguese Water

Pet Gazette

U.S. Sen. Ted Kennedy, who gave the Obamas their sixmonth-old Portuguese Water Dog, Bo, published this book in 2006 about his own pet, Splash. “My Senator and Me: A Dog’s-Eye View of Washington, D.C.” follows Splash as he tries to help the senator go about his daily life and pass an education bill, explaining along the way how a bill becomes a law, the roles of Congress and the Senate and other details of government.

June 2009

That Famous Face

A

The Portuguese Water Dog, called Cão de Água in Portugal (basically translating to “dog of water”), gets its name from its history of being a companion for Portuguese fishermen and sailors. Dogs usually grow to be up to reputation for being hypoal- well-balanced working dog 65 pounds and around 20-23 lergenic, Freeman said they was prized by the fishermen as inches tall, while females are not necessarily so. “The a companion and guard dog. can get up to a little over 50 dogs have hair as contrasted He lived on the working pounds and about 17-21 inch- to having fur. They don’t have boats where he was dander like a golden retriever. taught to herd fish es tall, Freeman said. The breed features a thick They do have hair and hair into nets, to recoat of curly or wavy hair, of- sheds, sort of the way [human] trieve lost tackle ten black or black with white hair sheds. If you’re allergic to or broken nets blazes on the chest, though the dander in other dogs, you will and to act as a dogs can come in a variety of not be allergic to a Portuguese courier from colors, including white, brown Water Dog. If you’re allergic ship to ship and spotted. They also have to the protein in a dog’s sali- or ship to thick tails, typically clipped va, then you’re allergic to all shore.” “They were so they have a tuft of hair on dogs,” he said. The Portuguese Water basically companthe end like a lion’s tail. Those tails contribute to the dogs’ ex- Dog, called Cão de Água in ions of the Portuguese Portugal (basically translat- fishermen while they were out cellent swimming skills. The Obamas reportedly ing to “dog of water”), gets on their boats,” Freeman said. Though they’re not necpicked a Portuguese Water its name from its history of Dog in part because they are being a companion for Portu- essarily more inclined to enlow-shedding dogs — daugh- guese fishermen and sailors. joy water than other canine According to the PWD Club breeds, Porties do like to ter Malia, 10, has allergies. Though Porties have a Web site, pwdca.org, “This splash around, Freeman said.

Though they’re not necessarily more inclined to enjoy water than other canine breeds, the Portuguese Water Dogs do like to splash around.

June 2009

PET GAZETTE

lready since the Obamas introduced their furry new addition to the family in April, products bearing Bo’s name and image have been pouring into the market. On April 16, two days after Bo’s first official White House photo op, Ty Inc. introduced a new Beanie Baby version of the presidential pup that has reportedly sold out at select stores around the country. The little black-and-white stuffed dog bearing a red-white-andblue collar retails for $4.99 but already has been seen going for upwards of $100 on eBay. Also in April, a small publishing company based in Virginia, Mascot Books, announced it would be releasing a children’s book featuring Bo. “Bo, America’s Commander in Leash” by Naren Aryal and illustrated by Danny Moore, was released this spring and takes Bo on “an exciting adventure as he learns all about the White House and experiences the traditions that make it such a special place,” according to a blurb on the company’s Web site. The book, a 32-page hardcover in full color aimed at ages 4-8, retails for $14.95. (Find it at mascotbooks.com or at other local and online bookstores.) Set for a fall release is a series of politicalthemed comic books about President Barack Obama, Vice President Joe Biden and First Dog Bo. “Puppy Power: Bo Obama,” Written by Paul J. Salamoff and drawn by Keith Tucker, is set to be released by Bluewater Productions in September and “gives children an insider’s look at the White House,” according to the company’s Web site. It will retail for about $3.99. Check it out at bluewaterprod.com. And a quick Web search for “Bo Obama” will turn up a number of other Bo-related products, from mugs and T-shirts bearing his name and image (zazzle.com) to a $1,700 presidential dog bowl made of bone china and accented with 24-karat gold and Swarovski crystals (firstdogbowl.com). With the presidential pup having been “in office” for under two months, it is likely more Bo products will follow in the near future.

11

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He said his wife, Jane, who helps breed the dogs at their home in Connecticut, practices water exercises with the dogs that mimic the work they did on boats — picking up buoys and other items while learning to swim well. “They love the water,” he said. “We let them go into the pool, and we can’t get them out. They’re like kids in the pool.” Though Portuguese Water Dogs enjoy swimming, that doesn’t mean they should be kept outdoors, Freeman said. “They are not outside dogs; they’re inside dogs,” he said. A large part of that is the fact that Porties like to be around people. They’re family dogs, Freeman said. “When you have one in your family —  we have four —  you never go any place alone. The last time you will be able to go to the bathroom by yourself is the day before you get one of these dogs. These guys really, really want to be with their people,” Freeman said. The breed also is “very bright,” he said. “They want to be directed. They want a job to do.” As with any new dog, potential owners should not assume every member of the breed will act the same way, and Freeman encourages people who are interested in getting a Portuguese Water Dog to find a breeder in the area and spend some time with the dogs before taking one home.

The Obamas reportedly picked a Portuguese Water Dog in part because they are low-shedding dogs —  daughter Malia, 10, has allergies. Though Porties have a reputation for being hypoallergenic, experts say they are not necessarily so. Porties have hair instead of fur so they produce less dander, but some people who are allergic to a protein in dogs’ saliva Photo by Pete Souza, still may be affected by this breed. whitehouse.gov

Meeting a Portie face-toface also is a good way to tell for sure whether a person is allergic to the dog, Freeman said. “You sit there for a few minutes and you’ll know pretty quickly whether you’re allergic or not,” he said. Families thinking of getting a Portuguese Water Dog also should consider health is-

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Stu and Jane Freeman’s Portuguese Water Dog, Spencer, has had quite a winning show career, winning the PWDCA National Specialty in fall 2008; being top in his breed at Westminster three years in a row; and being named the Number One Portuguese in Breed and All Breed points for 2006. He has also earned an Apprentice Water Dog title from the PWDCA, among Photo courtesy of Stu Freeman other accomplishments.

sues that may be common with the breed and should look for a reputable breeder who follows AKC guidelines. For example, the PWD Club of America recommends that any dog used for breeding be at least two years old and be examined for and evaluated free of certain health problems such as canine hip dysplasia (common in larger breeds), metabolic storage disease (a genetic disorder that allows the buildup of toxic substances in the nerve cells) and eye problems. For more information about potential health problems and the PWD Club of America’s guidelines, visit pwdca.org/health. “Overall, they’re pretty healthy dogs,” Barrow said. If you have the money to spend, the room for them to be active and the time and patience to welcome a new puppy into your home, the Portuguese Water Dog could be right for you. “Porties tend to be really friendly dogs, good-natured, and it’s important that people know they need to be out and they need to be active, running and swimming and playing,” Barrow said.

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Pet Gazette

June 2009

Forever friends By Carol Martin Special to the Pet Gazette

M

y name is Rusty and this is my story. I would like to tell you of how I came to live with my best friend, Leo on August 30, 2007. Before we met, Leo was very ill with congestive heart failure, damage to upper lungs and diabetic. He is on oxygen 24 hours a day. His love for DVD’s and TV cartoons kept him going as his only enjoyment. Leo’s mom lived on the fourth floor of their building and Leo lived on the fifth floor. She came every hour to take care of his needs, but Leo needed and wanted more. He wanted a dog. Mom felt it was more than he could handle and had great concerns as Moms

A

story of determination

do! “I’m ill myself and cannot help you with a dog” she would say so the discussion was over ... or so she thought!! Well one day Leo got a new P.C.A. worker named Carol who helped him with his needs and in talking to her learned she had two chihuahuas. Leo went to visit the dogs often letting them jump on his belly giving him lots of kisses at the same time!! He didn’t get sick once and had no allergies to them as his mom once thought he had. Leo went to pet stores and got exercise by walking the mall. Then the plan started! Carol and Leo talked to his case manager, Pat, about Leo’s determination to get a dog. He know it would be hard and there would be many chal-

lenges to overcome. First, he would have to care for his A.D.L.’s for himself before he could care for a dog. Leo walked every day. Next he saved $500 to pay for a dog when he got one. This money would pay for shots, beds, food, etc. then he even

Prong Collars: Becoming ‘The Alpha’ By Colleen Sayers Pet Gazette Columnist

T

he prong collar seems to be an issue of debate, especially among new dog owners. Some people have no problem using them, some people do. Many people think that it’s mean and that it’s painful to the dog. It depends on how you use it. It can be painful if you are constantly pulling it and if it’s not on properly or too tight. Unfortunately there are some misconceptions when it comes to deciding what works best for your dog. I can honestly say that from my experience of being a dog walker for fifteen years, I believe it depends on the dog. Some dogs really need the prong collar to understand what they can and can’t do. Some never need it. A good example is when you have a dog that is pulling you to the point that your hands and arms are in pain from walking your dog I’d say that your dog is a pretty good candidate for the prong collar. What people don’t realize is that when a dog has a regular collar on and is constantly pulling they are actually doing more damage to their trachea by the constant pressure of the collar on their neck than they would by wearing a prong collar. I’ve seen this happen in a couple of dogs and as they get older they start to have breathing problems. Never mind after awhile, it becomes an unpleasant task taking your dog for walks when it is supposed to be a pleasant experience for you and your

June 2009

dog. It becomes a stressful situation when you feel like you are constantly yelling at your dog. You start to feel like you have no control over your dog and it becomes a safety issue. I’ve had clients that wouldn’t let me use a prong collar on their dogs.

For me it is a big safety issue. If I don’t have control over a dog then I can’t walk it. It becomes a liability in the way that I can risk getting hurt or risk having the dog get away from me and getting hurt. Sometimes it takes “dog language” for them to understand. In other words, all the yelling, disciplining and stopping while walking isn’t going to solve the problem. This isn’t always the case with some dogs. Every dog is different personality wise and some dogs do understand commands a lot quicker than others. Some dogs need it communicated to them in “dog language”. Basically this is where the prong collar works. What the prong collar does is it simulates the sensation given by the alpha dog. The alpha dog usually nips the other dog in the throat area to let them know that they are “the boss” or the alpha. The prong collar acts as the alpha

dog except you control it with the leash. When you want your dog to stop pulling you give it a tug to let the dog know that you are the boss and that they aren’t allowed to pull you. Most often than not dogs usually will understand this pretty quickly and will become increasingly less difficult to control. They begin to understand that you are the boss. It is also effective when trying to curb bad behavior. It lets the dog know that you are the alpha and that they have to listen to you. Before you know it your dog will be behaving better and walking your dog will no longer be a painful experience. Colleen Sayers has been involved in the pet care industry for fifteen years as a professional pet sitter. She is the owner of Paw-sibly The Pet Sitting Service and a member of Pet Sitters International.

did a new budget with allowances for dog food, heart worm pills, and Frontline! Carol and Leo had already visited the Taunton Animal Shelter two or three times. The people at the shelter knew he wanted a dog 40 pounds or under. Well on this day when Leo called, I was there! Rob, the shelter manager, told Leo that I would be perfect for him! Carol and Leo came to see me and we all fell in love right away! Leo adopted me! When Leo’s mom first saw me she looked a little mad and then she fell in love with me! She was my Grandma! She gave me treats everyday and sometimes three times a day (even when Leo would say not to and we would all just laugh!) Sadly, my Grandma passed away on March 7, 2008. Leo and I miss her a lot, but we have each other and keep each other company along with Carol. I don’t see Pat. She got transferred but I thank Carol and her for help-

ing me find Leo. Carol still comes every day! It’s hard to tell who loves me more -- Leo or Carol! By the way, Leo lost 17 pounds and has only gone to the hospital once since I came to live with him! That’s great news for his health! As for me, I got a great friend for life and a great forever home! And speaking of that there are 10 to 15 people in this building that pat me every day -- what a life! I know they enjoy this as much as I do. I hope you like my story. But this isn’t the end of my story, it’s just the beginning! Thanks for reading it! Rusty Dougherty P.s. I’d like to thank all the caring and fantastic people who made it possible for me to write this story: my Dad, Leo Dougherty, my late grandma, and Carol Martin and Pat Nunes from Options for Independent Living.

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tormy was recently brought to Old Derby Animal Hospital in Hingham. Her right rear leg was dangling in a very unnatural way - she had a compound fracture. At first the vet thought she had a bite wound, but it was bone that had pierced her skin. Her owners were told that the cost of surgery, including spaying her after she healed, could cost up to $3,000. Their other option was to surrender her to All Paws Rescue. Why All Paws Rescue? Stormy had been originally adopted from this rescue group. I'm a volunteer there and I'm the one who rescued her when she was found crying alone outside on a stormy night in November. Stormy was indeed surrendered. Stormy was a well loved kitten at the All Paws Rescue cat shelter. She loved playing with the other cats and kittens. Even more, she loved being held and cuddled by the volunteers and rewarded everyone with loud purrs, The All Paws Rescue adoption policy states that all cats and kittens adopted must be “indoor only” family pets. If a kitten is too young to be spayed or neutered they must have this done as soon is the kitten is old enough. A $40 deposit spay/neuter deposit is required,

Benefit Walk for Homeless Animals

C

e-Ce & Friends Humane Society’s 10th annual walk for animals is set for 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sunday, June 07, at Wollaston Beach/ Caddy Memorial Park. The 4-mile walk will take place along Wollaston Beach.Dogs are welcomed and encouraged to walk their owners. The event will include free animal samples, fun activities for children, bake sale, and education & tips on helping you care for your animals. The walk will take place rain or shine. For more information, visit www.angelfire. com/ma3/cecenfriends or call 781-331-6115.

that included terms stating their kitten would be "indoors only" and would be spayed in a timely fashion (she was too young to spay at that time). Unfortunately, Stormy's owners not only let her out, they did not bother to get her spayed. They thought she needed her freedom. In fact, they had no idea how her leg was broken! All Paws Rescue is an all volunteer, tax exempt organization with a no-kill philosophy. All funds and donations are used to rescue homeless animals. There was no question that Stormy had to be rescued yet again, but we are all discouraged that this was a save that should never have happened. The funds that we expend on this preventable situation will severely impact our ability to continue our rescue efforts. As with many non profits, we are living day to day. We are asking for help to defray Stormy's medical costs. She will be in foster care for at least eight weeks and then will require surgery to remove the pin in her leg. After all that Stormy will go through additional surgery to spay her. After that we will be looking for that wonderful home that will love her and keep her safe. Finally, please, keep your cats safe. Donations to pay for Stormy's care can be sent to: All Paws Rescue, PO Box 569, Accord, MA 02018.

MY TOP DOG

59 Brook Street Plympton, MA 02367 (781) 585-5288

I

Zoe

really love dogs. My dad is allergic to dogs, but we finally found one that way hypoallergenic. We named her Zoe. She is four months, and she is a silky terrier. She is living in Carver. She loves to run with me. She likes to chew her chew toys at night, while she sit with us. She gets excited when company comes to visit. She is very kind, and cute. Her back is black and her tail, but her paws are tan. I am very happy that I got a dog but I got the perfect one, Zoe. My nana has Zoe’s sister and her name is Sophie. I love my dog Zoe! Love, Laicy Carver

• Riding Lessons & Boarding • Specializing in Adult Beginners

14

Although most people understand the reason cats needto be spayed or neutered, some don't understand our “indoor only” policy. Our reasons are always spelled out to the new owner: • Indoor cats are protected from predators and neighborhoods are less likely to have coyotes or other predators encroaching if there is no food source. • Indoor cats are cleaner and healthier. They are less likely to have parasites that can be transmitted to family members. • Indoor cats cannot climb inside a warm engine of a car where they can be hurt or killed by an unsuspecting owner. • Indoor cats are not a nuisance to neighbors, using their yards as litter boxes or chasing birds from their feeders. Before Stormy's adoption was complete, her owners signed an adoption document

PET GAZETTE

June 2009

dog training

dog training

Pawsitive Solutions

WonderDogs & Friends

Dog Training Services Private In Home Training Basic Manners Behavior Consulting & Modification Puppy Selection Serving Upper Cape Area

~where training is a positive experience!~

Susan Wyzik - Trainer

Agility s Rally s Obedience s Puppy s Behavior Modification s s Certified Pet Dog Trainer s Group, Private and In-Home Lessons on Cape Cod & the South Shore

508-542-1512

www.wonderdogs-and-friends.com

508.539.9783

dog training

Canine Etiquette, LLC All Stages of Life UÊœÕÃiLÀi>Žˆ˜}Ê UÊ"Li`ˆi˜Vi UÊ i…>ۈœÀÊœ`ˆwV>̈œ˜
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Obedience Training School 55 Jonathan Bourne Dr. U-4 Pocasset, MA 02559 508-563-1122 Josephsdogtraining.com

veterinary

Classes Available

Dr. Ann Thompson 508.747.5444

www.MayflowerVet.com

508-747-5444

We also have office hours at 27 Robert J Way Camelot Industrial Park Plymouth

Puppy, Basic, Level 2, Level 3, Attention, Adv. Attention, Open, Utility, Agility, Rally-O, Conformation, Canine Good Citizen Behavior Consultation, Private Lessons & Ring Rentals

mayflowervet.com

Sterling Impression Animal Rehabilitation Center of New England 1008 East Street,Walpole, MA 02081 508.668.7946 (SWIM) • fax 508.668.7973 Marjorie C. McMillan, DVM, DACVR, CCRP Cathy Symons, CVT, CCRP

What we do…

Pre-op conditioning – Post-op rehabilitation – Orthotics – Therapy groups Weight Management – Conditioning

VCA Roberts Animal Hospital

GRACE STRAKE, DVM LORI HARVEY, DVM LIZ CZAPLICKI, DVM

516 Washington St., Hanover, MA Open 7 Days a Week

“A Lifetime of Veterinary Care” 781-826-2306 • www.VCARoberts.com

781-340-0800 1597 Main Street (Route 18 South)

Weymouth, MA 02190

CARING + EXPERIENCED STAFF FULL-SERVICE VETERINARY HOSPITAL LASER SURGERY DIGITAL X-RAY ULTRASOUND

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$80 $70

June 2009

Pet Gazette

15

PET SITTING

PET SITTING

PETSitters SITTING Pet Buy one visit - get one free!!!

Bonded

Walks &theTrots Serving Plymouth Area

Michele’s

Cat Sitting Service Michele Kelly Vet Tech

781-843-7925

Serving Braintree and Surrounding Towns

Ocean Bluff Pet Services Serving Marshfield FIRST

TIME OFFER Daily Dog Walks $5.00 OFF! In Your Home PetDog Sitting Walks

Member start at $12 Pet Taxi Pet International Puppy Pit Stops Call&Donna Insured with Pet Sitters Associates, A Nanny For Your Pets! LLC Certified by National Association of Professional Pet Sitters 781-545-0925

& Insured Carol Spooner, Bonded Sole Proprietor 781-254-7521 [email protected] Scituate & Surrounding Areas

Serving S. Plymouth & Sagamore Beach

Insured Licensed Professional www.justaroundthecornerpetsit.com

Pam Ranheim Owner 508-245-1389

~ Fully Insured ~ Playgroups Leash Walks Transportation House Visits Martha Corcoran 5 Trudy's Lane, Scituate 781-545-7297 [email protected]

PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Lighthouse Home & Pet Services home visits daily • weekly • monthly year round service

Complete Dog Walking/Home visits Pet DogCare grooming Service Dogassage

Dogs - Vacation Cats - Horses stay and play

Carol Shapiro, Serving CCMT Canton, Sharon, Owner/Operator

Established in 1981

326-7515 ADD A BITESusan TO(781) YOUR BUSINESS! ADVERTISE WITH US! Westwood, Dedham, Norwood, Dover, Needham, Walpole, Medfield

Pet Sitting: Domestic & Farm Animals, Water Plants. Midday Care: Exercise & Playtime, Medications, Training, Midday Relief Visits. Grooming: Cat & Dog GroomingAll Breeds Welcome, Free Pick-up & Drop-off. Specialize in Needs of Elderly Pets. Insured & Bonded

[email protected]

Stoughton, and Milton

Bone Phone: 508-280-6761

781-828-0405

Bonded

Under

4-Paws Petsitting My

Wings Dalen A. Walker

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Certified Tech., B.S. Professional Pet Vet. Sitting Serving parts of Plymouth, Carver, Kingston & Plympton A pet’s first choice in pet care... when you can’t be there! Serving508-747-4259 the South Shore (Braintree to Kingston, Randolph, & Milton) www.undermywings.com

Daily Visits • Dog Walking • Overnight Stays Wishbones for PetstoFounder Call in advance secure dates

American Red Cross Certified

781-331-8751 (cell) Licensed & Insured - Est.617-771-6232 1994 (email) [email protected]

Serving Marshfield and surrounding towns with tender loving care

• in-home pet care • dog walking • pet taxi service • home watch • much more

Professional, reliable, and loving pet care in your home, long or short term. Serving Falmouth,Mashpee & Bourne P.O. Box 1452, North Falmouth, MA 02555 508-274-5021 www.lighthousehome.net Bonded & Insured

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�In Home Pet Sitting� We’ll sit for your pets so they can stay at home PEG DAVIS 781-834-3441 Linda Garrity Insured References Available

Email: [email protected] Fax: 781-834-1022

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781-837-2553 Duxbury, MA

NANNY”

The Pet Lovers’ “

• Daily dog walks thru forests or parks • Overnight, in-home nanny care • Kitty cat services • Large & small farm animals • Show horse services

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GROOMING The

An Ad in

Pet Gazette Dire

NAME ______________________________________________________________________

COMPANY __________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS ___________________________________________________________________

CITY ___________________________ STATE _______________ ZIP ___________________

PHONE __________________________________________ FAX ______________________

E-MAIL __________________________________________ WEB SITE _________________

Send ad copy, along with check or money order, to:The Pet Gazette, PO Box 2

Are you suffering the loss of an animal? Animal lovers who are grieving come get together and talk about your grief

There is a six-month minimum for directory advertising. You may change PET FENCING CONSTRUCTION scheduled run. We will insert/your logo at no extra charge.

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PET GAZETTE

June 2009

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Clean Small homey facility with owners in residence • Spacious condos • Outdoor views • Pre-boarding inspection welcome • Cats Only! Plymouth • 508-224-7085

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Her reading’s much improved since I started working with her!

A Country Kennel with Resident Owners and Caring Staff Greengate Kennel is truly unique! It is family owned by longtime breeders of world renowned Braeside Golden Retrievers and English Cockers. We have been providing personal, loving care for visiting pets for 35 years. – – – – –

Individual climate controlled indoor/outdoor runs Large play yard for individual play or family groups Individual nature walks around our beautiful grounds available Our staff has been providing superb, gentle care for many years References upon request from long-term clients

Please come and visit our charming kennel in this beautiful, tranquil country setting.

Board at Best Friends Fo

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150 Boston Post Road Sudbury (978) 443-2351

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OUR PETS LOVE IT HERE, SO WILL YOURS!

Boarding • Grooming Doggy Day Camp • Training

Resident Owners: The Mason Family 881 Congress St., Duxbury, MA 02332 781-837-5125 www.greengatekennel.com

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pet health

June 2009

Pet Gazette

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17

German Shepherd Rescue of new england

Milton Animal League

978-443-2202| www.gsrne.org

617-698-0413 | www.miltonanimalleague.org

Anna is a one-two year old spayed female German Shepherd who was an unclaimed stray. Initially we couldn't figure out why Anna was so thin, but then we discovered that she has Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency. EPI, common in German Shepherds, means that she does not produce digestive enzymes to digest food normally. Treatment is the addition of powdered digestive enzymes to her food but it is not inexpensive and requires a lifetime commitment. We think lovely Anna is more than worth the effort. Tazjah is a 3-year-old, spayed female pit bull terrier who was surrendered by her owners who had to move. Tazjah has lived with children, knows some commands and loves to play and chase balls. Since Tazjah has lived with a family until recently, she knows what she is missing. All she needs now is a new family to call her own. Suzy is a 14-year-old spayed female domestic shorthair who was surrendered by her owners because they had a baby. Suzy is now sad and confused in the shelter. She wants to go home and we would like to find her a new permanent one. Won't someone please give Suzy a quiet, loving place to live out her golden years?

Dixie is a beautiful black and red, spayed 11-monthold female. Her owner could not keep her because his mother and her dog, a Golden Retriever, had difficultly with Dixie's high energy level. Dixie is a quiet, but energetic girl who, at times, demonstrates immature, but dominate behaviors. In her foster home, Dixie gets along very well with the 2 male dogs, but her desire to be boss has not gone over well with the resident female. Dixie's prey drive is high so a home without cats is a must. With people, Dixie is very loving with a strong desire to please. She wants to be your shadow. Dixie will bond quickly with a family who establishes a routine and boundaries for her.

Standish HUmane society

Maggie is a large white 9 months old female with a high energy level. She gets along with other dogs. She gets along with cats,too, but does like to chase them.

781-834-4663 | www.standishhumanesociety.com

SUKI and SARAH are 8-year-old loving sisters who are gorgeous, sweet, longhaired grey & white beauties. They still have a long life to continue to share together with new owners. These would be a wonderful adoption for potential adoptees who don't want to see these cats end up in a shelter. They are very healthy and have had regular vet check ups. This would be a great adoption for an older couple who don't want the chaos of kitten hood.

Pet Gazete Adoption Center Guidelines • Adoption notices are published free of charge for all area animal shelters. • The deadline for submitting pets is the 15th of the month. Space will be given out on a first-come, first-serve basis. • Please send a photo and brief write-up for each pet seeking adoption to [email protected] • You may send four pets per month. All types of dogs, cats and other domestic pets are welcome. •  We encourage shelters to send news of successful adoptions.

18

Tasha is a healthy mature female with gorgeous black and tan coloring. Tasha was surrendered to a shelter because her owners were losing their home. She had been with her family her whole life and at age ten, this upheaval had the potential to be a very difficult adjustment. Despite this, she is resilient. Tasha is a very sweet,confident dog eager to please her person. She appears much younger than her years when she plays with her rope, or ball. Tasha's manners are excellent. On-leash, she pulls a little and sometimes walks too fast, but she is learning to heel better. Tasha is very happy to greet people when out on a walk.

Hi, I'm HENRY and I am a 2-year-old tabby and I had a home once. I was really sweet and gentle and never complained about anything. But when my owners moved, they didn't love me enough to take me. They didn't even make sure I had food or water bor shelter. It was really hard to survive. I'm so glad I was rescued and can stay here until someone can give me a permanent home. Even though my last owners didn't treat me good, I don't hold a grudge because that's way too big for my little paws to handle.

Hi there, my name is MASON I know all sorts of birds because I sit and watch every day out my window. I can tell you the difference between the double-pecking french fry eater and your basic seed feeder glutton. Being a quiet and gentle 3 year old, I don't require much in the way of entertainment. I just like to observe.

Lance is a very large, handsome, classic black and tan male. He came from a shelter where his owner surrendered him. He lived outside most of his life and was not part of a household. Until he came to GSRNE, he had not had the opportunity to be a cherished family pet, faithful companion, or play with toys. At eleven-years-old, he is very enthusiastic, active and has no known medical problem, other than mild arthritis. Lance is pleased to greet kids on bikes and other dogs he encounters on walks. He is just the huggable and lovable big bear you have always dreamed of! †Lance is a gentle giant who loves living with a female GSD, and is cat friendly. Lance would be a great dog for someone with an interest in GSDs, but who does not want to handle the demands of a very active youngster. An ideal home for Lance is one that is active and walks daily.

Taunton animal Shelter 508-822-1463

My name is Sherman, and I am a male white DLH. I was abandoned to the outside and when the nights became to cold to bear, I looked for a place where I could get warm. I found it at a kind woman's home, she brought me in on the frigid nights and made sure I had food to eat. I liked her dog, but the resident cats I didn't like to share with. I am at the shelter hoping that my next home will be one forever and I will spend my days watching the snow fall through a window. I have a special adoption fee. BUDDY is a male Am Staff about 2-years-old. As you can see from the photo, he is a Big Red Sox Fan! Buddy was adopted as a pup from our shelter and then surrendered by his family due to his allergies. Since he has been at the shelter, his skin allergies seem to have disappeared. Buddy is great in the tub. He will need someone dedicated to staying on top of this to insure his allergies do not re-cur and someone who is willing to invest a little extra time and TLC. A consistent good quality diet will definitely help. Buddy would be happiest as the only pet in the home. He loves Kongs with treats and rawhide bones. He would be well suited for an active person/family who would include him in lots of activities. He is a friendly guy - who appears to like everyone. In addition to bringing luck to the Red Sox, he is hoping his Red Sox hat will also bring him luck - that he will "hit a home run" and find a new home and family soon!

Pet Gazette

June 2009

People for cats

Brockton Blue Dog Shelter

508-540-5654| www.peopleforcats.org

508-436-6446| www.bluedogshelter.com

Snoopy - is a sweet, 6 year old Cockapoo who recently came to us due to a change in family circumstances. This curly haired pooch is a medium sized, friendly boy who likes to go for walks and cuddle with his people. If you can find room in your heart and home for this great dog, please come to meet him during any regular shelter hours.

Tyson - is a handsome, energetic young Border Collie mix who came to our shelter when his owners could no longer care for him. He loves people and makes new friends quickly. Tyson had a cut on his foot that is still healing so he hasn't been able to play with the other dogs yet. We hope to be able to evaluate him with other dogs soon but we don't anticipate any problems. Tyson has not been neutered but we will arrange that once his foot is healed. Tyson will need lots of exercise to keep him happy. If you lead an active life and need a great companion, please come to meet Tyson during any regular shelter hours.

PANDA is a male black and white kitty who is about 9 months old. He is very affectionate and a real hugger. He was adopted for a few days, but the adopter worked a lot and didn't think he was giving Panda enough time. Panda would do well with a family that can spend time playing with him. He is neutered, has all his shots and is littered trained. He is a real sweetheart who is looking for a forever home.

Zoey - is a beautiful 1-year-old, purebred Boxer who has had many transitions in her short life. Her first owner gave her away shortly after buying her. She then lived with a loving family for several months but an injury to a family member led them not to be able to care for Zoey any longer. Zoey was relinquished to our shelter so that we could find her a new "forever home". Zoey is a large dog weighing about 58 lbs. She has the typical energy and personality of her breed and is very strong. Zoey has had some obedience training but she will need a family who is committed to firm leadership and exercise along with lots of love. The ideal family for Zoey will have prior dog experience. She is not suited for a home with children under 10-yearolds due to her strength and energy. Zoey also does not do well with most other dogs. If you are a Boxer lover, please come to meet this beautiful girl during any regular shelter hours.

Lily is a pretty 3-year-old Shepherd mix dog who came to our shelter when her family could no longer care for her. Lily is a medium/large dog at 50 lbs and has a lovely soft coat. Lily has plenty of energy for an active family but we recommend that she not live with children under 10 due to her size and activity. She has had some obedience training but will need a family that will continue her training so she can become a great family member. She will also need pletny of exercise. Lily may do better in a home without other dogs as she is somewhat picky about her dog friends. Lily has not been around cats and we don't think she would do well with them. You can meet Lily during any regular shelter hours.

Mass HumanE

Hi my name is Lover Boy - aka LB, I am 13-months-old, neutered male, fawn and white, American Stafford Shire Terrier. I am up to date on rabies and distemper shots, HW Lyme test negative, de worm, de flea and micro chipped. I have lots of love to give you. I am a strong muscular guy that needs someone to understand the breed I am. I love quality time with a fenced in yard so I can be me and I love to ride in the car. I do good in the house training department. I seem to do better with small dogs as long as I am introduced slowly and it takes a few times in meeting the dog. I do best as the only pet in the house and I tend to be good with kids over 10 years of age, no cats or small toddlers. Hi my name is Lucy I am a 7-month-old DSH black spayed kitten, I am up to date on all my shots, FIV Leukemia negative, de flea, de worm and micro chipped. I am a sweet girl, with a sweet disposition. I am gentle and love to be held and will purr forever. I love to play with all my cat toys and will roll on my belly. I get along well with other cats and I need a play mate. Older kids and dogs OK no small toddlers. I am an indoor cat only. I ready for a loving, caring, warm, safe and responsible home.

PRECIOUS is a three-year-old brown and tan tabby. She came to us after her owner died and there was no other place for her to go. She is a sweet girl who loves to be petted and enjoys attention. She has been spayed and has all her shots. She is very friendly and gets along with the other cats. Precious would love to be adopted to a home where she can get the attention and love she craves. The adjustment has been hard for her, but every time someone new comes into the shelter she takes a peek to see if it is someone who will be her forever family.

PIRA is a lovely, young muted Calico/Tortie girl. She is approximately 2-years-old. Pira came from a home situation that had too many cats so she did not get the attention or care she needed. PFC is providing the health care she needs and Pira is making great progress on the road to good health. She enjoys being an active part of the shelter and loves to sit in the window and watch the birds. Pira is very affectionate and adores being petted. One of her special features is that all four of her feet have double toes! She is spayed and has all of her shots.

A Helping paw inc.

508-743-8406 | www.ahelpingpaw.org

your heart and lap

781-335-1300 - www.masshumane.org

June 2009

KITTENS! KITTENS! KITTENS! It's Kitten Season again. New kittens are coming in daily and one is just cuter than the next! We have close to 20 kittens of different colors and ages, all waiting for a wonderful home. Some of our little ones would like to be adopted together and there is a price break for doing that. Come in for adoptions on Wednesday from 4-6p.m. or on Saturday from 10a.m. - 1p.m.

Martin and his friend Rowen (a Maine Coon Type) are a very sweet pair. Young adults, they will warm

Stuart and sis, Lilly: I can't believe this pair of Cockers are still with us. Voted the BEST dogs to enter our shelter, they are easy-going, great with kids and other dogs and simply amazing!

Gizmo is xtra-large, and has xtra-love to give. He would do best in an adult home, other kitties are fine as long as you give him time to acclimate.

Quincy animal shelter

617-376-1349 www.quincyanimalshelter.org

SUNNY: He has a gorgeous orange and white coat, and is about threeyears-old.The volunteers love him! His name describes his personality. He likes belly rubs, toys, and carrying on a conversation. While FIV+, he can live a long and happy life. Feline siblings should be FIV+, but he would do well as the only spoiled feline in the family.

Pet Gazette

MIA: She has been at the shelter for over a year patiently waiting for her forever home. She is a quiet girl who is appreciative of any attention paid to her. Mia also likes having her beautiful long haired white coat brushed. Originally a stray, Mia is now about nine-yearsold. Be the one who gives her a good home.

19

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Coming in August J.M. K-9 will be moving to an 11,000 square foot state of the art facility. We have the largest selection of dog & cat food and soon it will be even larger. Our new facility will also have a 2,500 square foot indoor play area. All of our new space will enhance our s$AYCARE s3TATEOFTHEARTTRAINING s,UXURYBOARDING At J.M. K-9 your pet is part of our family. To donate to the shelter visit www.thebbds.org

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Whether your plan is to stay with us for the day or overnight - It's Fun! We provide a safe enjoyable retreat for your canine companion full of mental and physical stimulation. Known for our experience and our fantastic way of accommodating each pet to provide a great individual program for each of our clients, we pride ourselves on delivering exactly what they need whether it be a day of full exercise or frequent breaks in between. Call us to talk about how we can make your life easier and make your pet better exercised and more fullfilled.

42!).).' We use motivational techniques for “Paws”itive results. We take all breeds, all phases, all problems. An initial consultation is a prerequisite to all obedience classes.

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Pet Gazette

June 2009

VCA South Shore (Weymouth) Animal Hospital 595 Columbian St., South Weymouth, MA 02190

(781) 337-6622 www.vcasouthshore.com

Internal Medicine Michael Bernstein, DVM, DACVIM, Medical Director Angelyn Cornetta, DVM, DACVIM, Intern Director Alice Hadden, DVM, DACVIM Susan Morrison, DVM, DACVIM Jerry Perry, DVM Bruce Walker, DVM Cardiology Susan Morrison, DVM, DACVIM (Internal Medicine) Bradley L. Moses, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology) Neurology Stephanie Kube, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology) Dermatology Klaus Earl Loft, DVM Emergency/Critical Care Angelyn Cornetta, DVM, DACVIM Angela Diaz, DVM Alison R. Gaynor, DVM, DACVIM, DACVECC Cindy Lopes, DVM Ophthalmology Bill Greentree, DVM, DACVO Surgery David Diamond, VMD, DACVS Radiology/Diagnostic Imaging Lori Hartzband, DVM, DACVR Diana Rosenstein, DVM, DACVR Avian and Exotic Animal Medicine Stephen Dyer, DVM, DABVP (Avian) Dentistry Michelle Michienzie, DVM Sheri Procious, DVM 20

Dermatology Chronic Ear Disease In Dogs & Cats If your dog has had two or more ear infections in his or her life, you might have been told that “all dogs gets ear infections,” or “it is normal for dogs with long, hanging ears to get ear infections,” or “all dogs that swim get ear infections,” or even that “it is because your dog is digging in the dirt that he gets ear infections.” These are common misconceptions that Dr. Klaus Earl Loft, who runs the Dermatology Service at VCA South Shore Animal Hospital in South Weymouth, MA, has heard from owners who bring him their pets with chronic ear problems. In reality, a dog that suffers from recurrent ear infections may actually have an underlying allergic skin condition that, if diagnosed and treated properly, could eliminate or reduce the incidence of future ear infections. If your dog has had ear problems that began when he or she was younger than 3 to 4 years of age, it is likely that the ear problem is secondary to allergies. Older animals that develop their first ear infection later in life may have problems other than allergies that are the cause for the ear infection. In veterinary medicine, it is often the dermatologist who deals with chronic ear diseases in dogs and cats. This is very understandable, since the ear and the skin are one and the same organ, and clinical signs associated with the ears are often part of a generalized dermatologic condition. Some dogs that present with an ear infection will have other clinical symptoms that are suggestive of allergies, such as foot licking and chewing, itchy skin, reoccurring skin infections in the groin or elbow area, greasy and scaly hair coat, and/or patchy hair loss. These symptoms can seriously affect the quality of life in these pets, and managing patients afflicted with chronic allergic ear disease has become a passion for Dr. Loft. Using the videotoscope at VCA South Shore for both the diagnosis and treatment of these frustrating chronic ear problems has increased Dr. Loft’s ability to determine the best therapeutic options for these patients, and to help deal with the often severe discomfort associated with ear infections. If Dr. Loft suspects that allergies are the underlying cause for a patient’s chronic skin or ear issues, he can offer either intradermal or serologic testing for both cats and dogs. Once a specific allergic cause is identified, he will treat the patient with Allergen Specific Immunotherapy (commonly known as “allergy shots”). This hypo-sensitization is very similar to what is offered to humans with atopic dermatitis. If your dog or cat suffers from reoccurring ear problems or other chronic skin conditions, ask your regular veterinarian for a referral, or feel free to call VCA South Shore Animal Hospital, to schedule a consultation with Dr. Loft. In Dr. Loft’s opinion, “Until proven otherwise, a pet with chronic ear disease is an allergic pet.”

• Full Service Veterinary Hospital • 24 Hour Emergency Service • Appointments Available Seven Days a Week Dedicated team of 28 doctors on staff – including Board Certified specialists in Cardiology, Internal Medicine, Neurology, Ophthalmology, Radiology, Surgery, Avian Practice, and Emergency/Critical Care.

The Best of Quality Care for Every Stage of Your Pet’s Life! Pet Gazette

June 2009