March/April 2011 Issue of Pet Me! Magazine

FREE TO GOOD HOMES!Pet Me!Is Always…

MARCH/APRIL 2011

“The Pets

Earfor PeTsProblems

training withtreats

Next Door! ”

Please Contact Castaic Animal shelter at 661.257.3191

Charlie Do you want a furry lovebug who will brighten your day with a cute smile? Then look no further than Charlie.This adorable little Chihuahua mix is a sweet fun filled companion. He is only about a year old and has lots of energy for playing and entertaining you.Charlie loves everyone, especially if you have time to give him a pet and a cuddle! He gets on with other well socialised dogs and would be a great addition to any fun loving family. A4226462

Elvis Why has Elvis been at the shelter so long? He certainly should not still be in a kennel there, he should be curled up in someone’s lap! Elvis is a sweet and loving gentleman, maybe it’s because he’s 6 that he’s being overlooked and that would be a mistake because Elvis is well past all those anoying puppy behaviours, he won’t chew your new sandals! Elvis loves everyone and would dearly love his own human to cuddle on the sofa with. He gets on well with other dogs and loves to go for walks and other exciting outings. This adorable grey Llasa mix is the perfect dog for any family, he’s smart and has a mellow sweet personality. Come and meet a shelter favorite and maybe you’ll find that Elvis is the perfect fit for you! A422036

Mr. Whiskers When you are 11 years old and have only ever known one home it is very hard to be at the shelter. Poor Mr Whiskers needs to find that very special person who will provide him with a loving home so that he does not have to spend any more time in a cage at the shelter. He may not be in the first flush of youth but make no mistake about it, Mr Whiskers is a great cat and would be so grateful for a safe loving home to live out his remaining years. A4240552

Palomino Gelding Yes, we have horses at Castaic shelter, sometimes goats and pigs too! This is a very handsome palomino gelding who is around 5 years old. He needs an experienced home where he can continue his training. He is a kind horse who loads easily into a trailer. In order to adopt a horse you have to fill out an Equine application and have a property inspection, a vet check would be recommended to check if he is sound. A4174765

JJ is a striking blond Terrier/Jindo mix who loves to play, he has plenty of energy to keep up with you and would make a great family pet. He gets on great with everyone and loves to play with other well socialised dogs. He loves getting lots of attention, usually he’s at the center of it! Come and meet JJ and see if your family can keep up with him! A4237729

Angel Angel is what we refer to as a “pocket “ Rottie, she looks like a big dog and yet is smaller. Angel was originally at Lancaster shelter but one of our Officers fell for her and transferred her to Castaic hoping she’d have a better chance of finding her forever home. Spend a little time with her and you’ll discover she’s all about love and affection! Angel loves to play with other well socialised dogs of all sizes and would do best in a family with older children(10+). If you have room for this adorable little gal you’ll be hard pressed not to treat her like the perfect little Angel she is!! A4232027

To Adopt one of These Perfect Pets,

or Visit our Website: www.PetMeMag.com

Mr.Whiskers Palomino

Elvis

JJ Angel

Charlie

Gelding

“Cats know how to obtain foodwithout labor, shelter without confinement,

and love without penalties. ”~W.L. George

Advertising InformationDirect: 661.255.9979

fax: 866.259.9201email: [email protected]

Web: www.petmemag.com

Annual subscription: $10

PUBLIsHer AND eDITorBridget Alves

ProDUCTIoN/GrAPHICsBloomfield Designs

PUBLIsHeD BYPet Me! Publications

find Us on facebooksearch for

Pet Me! Magazine

6 The Pets Next Door!

7 smoking and Your Cat - A Cat Doctor’s Plea

8 What to Avoid feeding Your Cat

10 Your Directory to All Things Pets

12 ear Problems for Pets

13 Bunnies and easter Don’t Mix...

14 10 Amazingly smart & Productive Animals Humans Can Learn from

16 Training With Treats

17 Your Pet’s Dental Health

18 Keeping Green Iguana’s As Pets

Niko This cute little poodle/Bichon mix has to be one of the sweetest and loving dogs at Castaic Shelter right now, I’m amazed that he is still there and not yet adopted. He is outgoing and fun loving and loves everyone.Niko gets on really well with all other dogs, in fact poor Niko has seen many of his kennel mates go to their forever homes, however Niko’s sunny disposition never changes, that is why the staff and volunteers love this little guy so much. Niko came in looking a bit the worse for wear and so unfortunately he had to have a special” Shelter Shave Down”, however in only a matter of weeks his hair will have grown back and a groomer can transform into the stunner we know is in there! A few more walks and a less treats will help in that department too! Come and meet Niko, you will fall in love too! A3861196

Niko

“A dog is the only thing on earth that

loves you more than he loves

himself. ”~Billings

froM THePUBLIsHerHappy Spring!

Wow! It’s hard to believe this is our 8th issue of Pet Me Magazine. Time screams right by, doesn’t it?

Santa Clarita has already dealt with some heavy downpours over the winter months and as we prepare for more, (April showers bring May flowers) cool weather pet care, potential allergies and all around wellness continue to be top of mind. We don’t skip a beat as we sink our teeth into Pet Dental Health Month (March). Remember to schedule your pet’s teeth cleaning! Healthy teeth and gums mean sweet smelling breath for those happy kisses we love.

The pet industry has gone through some hefty changes over the last several years. New products, supplements and higher quality foods are on the market. Pet parents are now as mindful of nutrition for furry family members as they are for their pint-sized humans. However, reading labels offers only part of the picture. Are you sure you know what to avoid feeding your cat? (See page 8) How harmful is cigarette smoke to your pet?

Springtime is a popular time to add a bunnies and chicks to the family. Before you succumb to the temptation to place something soft and warm into your children’s arms, consider that these relationships are often short lived and as the novelty wears off, many bunnies end up calling a shelter home; that is until they’re euthanized … How about a cute stuffed animal to cuddle instead?

Pet Me Magazine is a community based publication and we enjoy being interactive. We’ve added a new feature this month - The Pets Next Door will introduce canine and feline community members. (Contest details on page 6).

Thank you for your wonderful emails and kind support. We appreciate the privilege of bringing you Pet Me! Magazine and look forward to your suggestions and fantastic ideas for future issues.

Bridget Alves Publisher, Pet Me! Magazine

Joey

SmokeyLanaGraysonBoo Boo

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I love ‘em when youhave to lea ve ‘em!

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WE SEEEXOTICS

BIGSUNDAY AT THE CASTAIC SHELTER{ {

Come out and support us at Big Sunday. The event will be held May 14th and 15th at the Castaic Animal Shelter, and will be held from 9am till 5pm and will be a volunteer donation (501c) base. Anyone who loves animals and would like to help update, upgrade, fix and repair our community shelter to make the animals that come to visit our shelter more comfortable, this event would be great to come and help out at.

We are going to be needing money donations, supplies and anyone who can take a day and give back. We are looking for people to paint, plant, organize, cut, dig an beautify our entire shelter for the cats, dogs, rabbits, reptiles, chickens and horses. Anyone interested please contact me at [email protected] or call me at 661-714-9939

Pet Me! Magazine™ MARCH/APRIL 2011feATUres

Pet Me! Magazine™6

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“The Pets Next Door! ”

“What’s for Dinner?”- Belle, 3.5 Years

“I sees me a little something over there...and, it’s just a matter of time” - spike, 20 Years Young

“Too Cute for Words” - Angel, 2 Months

Do you have an adorable pet that

should be featured in Pet Me! Magazine? Please submit a photo of your

pet, along with their name, age

and a slogan that would most

describe their personality.


“Dogs come when they’re called;cats take a message and get back to you later.” - Mary Bly quotes



W hile I choose to write about cats, because I work with them every day at The Cat Doctor & Friends, the information

in this article may also apply to dogs, birds, and “pocket pets”. Cigarette smoking harms animals as well as people, often in unexpected ways.

Almost everyday, I walk into one of my exam rooms and am immediately confronted with a strong smell of cigarettes, even though my cat hospital is a strictly non-smoking facility. I will sit down at my exam table, greet my client and my patient, and take a quick sniff of my patient’s fur, which reeks of cigarette smoke.

When a smoker smokes inside the house, modern ventilation systems take the cigarette smoke and re-circulate it throughout the entire house very quickly, even if the smoker is only smoking in one closed room. The smoke physically seems to rise, but many smoke particles descend, landing on the furniture, drapes, floors, and yes, the cat, dog or bird.

Cats and dogs groom and birds preen themselves, in order to remove any dirt or foreign materials from their hair coats or

feathers. In a smoker’s house, they end up swallowing many smoke particles, which has been implicated in the development of oral, gastrointestinal and bladder cancers in cats and dogs. This is in addition to the damage that exposure to cigarette smoke causes to animal lungs.

Cats, dogs, and birds can develop respiratory and other diseases due to exposure to cigarette smoke, ranging from sneezing and watery eyes, to chronic ear infections and skin allergies, to coughing due to asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Cats may even vomit as a symptom of asthma and both cats and dogs can develop emphysema if their exposure to cigarette smoke goes on long enough.

While cigarette smoke isn’t the only cause of asthma in cats, it is a common cause. Some of the most severe cases of asthma I’ve seen were cigarette smoke-induced, and sadly, a few cases were fatal, despite my best efforts. I have seen too many cases of lung cancer in pets living with smokers.

If you or a family member must smoke, please smoke outdoors, downwind from the house and well away from open doors or windows. Wearing a plastic or vinyl raincoat will prevent you from bringing smoke particles in on your clothes and washing your hands will also help protect your pet. Better yet, consider enlisting your family doctor’s help in quitting smoking for the sake of you and your pets.

By The Cat Doctor & Friends Staff

The Cat Doctor & Friends

c a t d o c t o r. c o m

Caring for cats and the

people who love them.

Have we seenALL of your cats

this year?

Dr. Tracy McFarland Dr. Rebecca Palmer

26055 Bouquet Canyon Rd. • Santa Clarita, CA 91350Call today to schedule your annual check-up (661) 259-5288

“The Pets Next Door! ”

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Pet Me! Magazine™

Pet Me! Magazine™ MARCH/APRIL 2011

8

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26111 Bouquet Cyn. Rd. • Suite D-5 • Saugus(Just South of Cinema Dr. by IHOP)

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By Drs. Foster & Smith Educational Staff

A s a responsible cat owner, you care about your kitty’s health and well-being. But did you know there are a variety

of common household items that are poisonous to your feline friend? Familiarize yourself with the following list of substances and keep each away from your cat to help protect her health.

Acetaminophen (Pain Killers) Can cause liver toxicityAlcoholic beverages Can cause intoxication, coma, and death.Baby food Can contain onion powder, which can be toxic to cats. (Please see onion below.) Can also result in nutritional deficiencies, if fed in large amounts.Bones from fish, poultry, or other meat sources Can cause obstruction or laceration of the digestive system.Canned tuna (for human consumption) Large amounts can cause malnutrition, since it lacks proper levels of vitamins and minerals.Chocolate, coffee, tea, and other caffeine Contain caffeine, theobromine, or theophylline, which can be toxic and affect the heart and nervous system.Citrus oil extracts Can cause vomiting.Dog food If accidental ingestion, will not cause a problem; if fed

repeatedly, may result in malnutrition and diseases affecting the heart.Fat trimmings Can cause pancreatitis.Grapes and raisins Contain an unknown toxin, which can damage the kidneys.Human vitamin supplements containing iron Can damage the lining of the digestive system and be toxic to the other organs including the liver and kidneys.Large amounts of liver Can cause Vitamin A toxicity, which affects muscles and bones.Macadamia nuts Contain an unknown toxin, which can affect the digestive and nervous systems and muscles.Marijuana Can depress the nervous system, cause vomiting, and changes in the heart rate.Milk and other dairy products Some adult cats and dogs do not have sufficient amounts of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down the lactose in milk. This can result in diarrhea. Lactose-free milk products are available for cats.Moldy or spoiled food, garbage Can contain multiple toxins causing vomiting and diarrhea and can also affect other organs.Mushrooms Can contain toxins, which may affect multiple systems in the body, cause shock, and result in death.Onions and garlic (raw, cooked, or powder) Contain sulfoxides and disulfides, which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia. Cats are more susceptible than dogs. Garlic is less toxic than onions. The amount found in pet food is well below any toxic level.

What to Avoidfeeding Your Cat



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Persimmons Seeds can cause intestinal obstruction and enteritis.Raw eggs Contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin (a B vitamin). This can lead to skin and hair coat problems. Raw eggs may also contain Salmonella.Raw fish Can result in a thiamine (a B vitamin) deficiency leading to loss of appetite, seizures, and in severe cases, death. More common if raw fish is fed regularly.Salt If eaten in large quantities it may lead to electrolyte imbalances.String Can become trapped in the digestive system; called a “string foreign body.”Sugary foods Can lead to obesity, dental problems, and possibly diabetes mellitus.Table scraps (in large amounts) Table scraps are not nutritionally balanced. They should never be more than 10% of the diet. Fat should be trimmed from meat; bones should not be fed.Tobacco Contains nicotine, which affects the digestive and nervous systems. Can result in rapid heart beat, collapse, coma, and death.Tuna, exclusively An all-fish diet is not good for cats. It can cause malnutrition. An all-fish diet contains a high concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids and not enough Vitamin E. This imbalance can lead to a sometimes-fatal condition called pansteatitis.Yeast dough Can expand and produce gas in the digestive system, causing pain and possible rupture of the stomach or intestines. @2009 Drs. Foster and Smith, Inc. Reprinted as a courtesy and with permission from DrsFosterSmith.com (http://wwDrsFosterSmith.com) Free pet supply catalog: 1-800-323-4208 (See pg. 14 of the April/May Issue for an example)

Bunnyluv16742 Stagg Street, Suite #104

Van Nuys • 818-988-4488www.bunnyluv.com

Brittany FoundationAgua Dulce • 661-713-5240

www.brittanyfoundation.com

Forgotten Angels Cat RescueActon • 661-273-9822

www.forgottenangelsrescue.org

Second Chance RescueActon • 661-269-1041

Villalobos Rescue Center(Agua Dulce) • 310-842-8164

[email protected]

Castaic Animal Shelter31044 N Charlie Canyon Road

Castaic • 661-257-3191www.animalcare.lacounty.gov

Lancaster Shelter5210 W Avenue “I”

Lancaster • 661-940-4191www.animalcare.lacounty.gov

Kern County Animal Control201 S. Mt. Vernon

Bakersfield • 661-868-7100www.animalcare.lacounty.gov

find more adoptables at petconnectus.com orcontact your local shelter or rescue. Visit our website

for additional rescue and shelter information.Pet Me! Magazine™10

Castaic Animal shelterHours: Monday – Thursday: 12 PM – 7 PM

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PMClosed Holidays

Precious PetsAdoptions 5 days a week • 10-5pm

No adoptions Sat & Tues.

Stevenson Ranch

Veterinary Hospital

25832 Hemingway Ave.

Santa Clarita • 661-799-0655

www.srvc.aahavet.org

Valencia Veterinary Center

23928 Summerhill Lane

Valencia • 661-263-9000

www.bestvalenciavet.com

VIP Veterinary Hospital

26111 Bouquet Cyn Road

Saugus • 661-222-PETS (7387)

www.vippethospital.com

Palm Plaza Pet Hospital

2501 E. Palmdale Blvd.

Palmdale • 661-272-4551

www.palmplazapet.com

Seco Canyon Animal Clinic

27935 Seco Canyon Road


www.secocanyonanimalclinic.info

The Cat Doctor

26055 Bouquet Canyon Road


www.catdoctor.com

Happy Pets Veterinary

27550 Newhall Ranch Road

Valencia • 661-295-9972

www.happypetsveterinary.com

Your Directory toall things Pets

Trusted Vets in and around the sCV

ongoing Adoptions PetcoBunny Adoptions 7 days a weekContact Wendy 661-478-7360

Department of Care & Animal Controlhttp://animalcare.lacounty.gov/locationbycity.asp

for questions regardingfoster and Adoption

Debbie Rosato 661-803-1842Cats & Kittens

Wendy the Bunny Lady 661-478-7360Bunnies for foster and adoption

remarkable rescuesand Animal shelters

shelter VolunteeringCastaic Animal Shelter

Call Debbie Rosato 661-257-3191www.animalcare.lacounty.gov

Bunny Rescue/VolunteerContact Wendy 661-478-7360

Doggone HappyTami Cox (Certified) 661-310-4133

Canine Country Club20341 Blue Cloud Road

Santa Clarita • 661-296-0566www.cccofscv.com

Castaic Canine CampNorth Ridge Route Road Castaic • 661-257-0957

www.castaiccaninecamp.com

Great Groomers

Express Dog Wash661-300-0128

[email protected]

Best Boardingfacilities

Guardian Animal Aftercare818-768-6465

www.guardianaftercare.com

AnimalCrematory

Pet Supply Santa Clarita26831 Bouquet Canyon RoadSanta Clarita • 661-296-2654

www.petsupplysantaclarita.com

Santa ClaritaPhotographic Studio

Fern 661-775-0898

HeirloomPet Portraits

Pawpular Petsupplier

Dogone-itMarlee 661-251-3873

Kyle’s Custom Critter Care661-305-4981

kylescustomcrittercare.com

PamperingPet sitters

When Pet Expo USA arrived on the scene in 2009, they offered something unique and different for pet lovers in the greater LA area. This year, they’ll host 3 amazing events, and one will be held right here in Santa Clarita.

The Pet and Family Expo returns this spring in a new location. On Saturday, May 14th Central Park (next to Bark Park) will host the single day event, offering more space to accommodate the growing number of vendors and attendees. Entertainment, education and services will highlight the expo, along with rescues and plenty of food and fun. Pets are welcome!

Pit Boss Shorty Rossi and celebrity entertainer Megan Blake will return this year, accompanied by a number of other entertainers – both human and canine! Please visit www.petexpousa.net to keep up with new information.

Humans have shared their lives with animals for 1,000s of years. In the beginning they were used to help make life easier. They’ve hunted, guarded and provided physical labor. Things have changed, however, over the years. In 2006, nearly half of pet owners, or 49.7%, considered their pets to be family members. Pet Expo USA celebrates our furry friends in a special way in 2011.

Go Green This spring Along with the Pet and Family Expo in Santa Clarita, PEU will host another event this spring. Those interested in a face to face opportunity introducing green business to conscious pet owners will be happy to know that this April 15th-17th, Santa Clarita residents Michelle Bucks and Connie Troncale, owners and producers of Pet Expo USA, are promoting at the Go Green Expo pet pavilion.

“We’re proud to offer conscious business owners an opportunity to participate in LA’s Go Green Expo at the Los Angeles Convention Center this spring,” said Pet Expo USA president Michelle Bucks. “There’s no better place to gain visibility in front of many thousands of people interested in options for an Eco-friendly lifestyle.”

Over 200 million Americans buy green products. According to Mintel Global New Products Database, in 2007, the number of those green products on the marketplace grew 200 percent from the year before. Those who are passionate about having a positive impact on our environment will have the opportunity to join like-minded business people in educating consumers and particularly pet owners, on green alternatives to Eco-friendly products.

Sponsorships are available. To exhibit, or for information on all PEU events, please contact Michelle Bucks 661-210-6995, Email [email protected] or visit www.petexpousa.net

To santa Clarita Pet expo UsA returns

“And that’s not all they have up their sleeve this year!”

every 2nd sundayCastaic shelter - Petco

(Seco & Bouquet) 11 AM - 3 PM26501 Bouquet Canyon Road

Santa Clarita

March 20thBrittany foundation AdoptionKriser’s Pet Store 11 AM - 2 PM

24276 Valencia Blvd. Valencia

March 26thCastaic shelter

HUGE YARD SALE! 9 AM - 2 PMThe shelter invites you to participate

and purchase or sell items. 100% of all earning from purchased or sold items will be donated to the shelter for Big

Sunday. Don’t forget to get your raffle tickets…you don’t want to miss out

on a fabulous prize!31044 N Charlie Canyon Road

May 6thComedy for Caninesat Marie Calendars

Tickets will be available atCastaic Shelter and a portion of

the proceeds will be donatedto Big Sunday

Valencia

May 14thPet expo

Central Park – Next to Bark ParkSaugus

May 14-15thCastaic shelter

BIG Sunday! 9 AM - 5 PM31044 N Charlie Canyon Road

DynamicDog Trainers

Adoptions & events



By Dr. B Grewal

Ear

s ymptoms of ear disease are shaking the head, scratching at the ears, odor from the ear, or redness of the ear flap and/

or entrance to the ear canal. Your pet may be tilting their head to one side although it’s important to point out that there are causes for this other than ear disease. The color and consistency of discharge may vary from yellow liquid to black wax, but the color does not indicate one particular cause.

The causes of ear disorders are due to infection, allergy, and foreign bodies. Your veterinarian will examine the ear canal with an otoscope. The exam will also help your veterinarian determine if the eardrum is intact. This may require sedation or anesthesia if the ear is very painful or if the pet is not cooperative.

Infections of the ear can be due to yeast, bacteria, or ear mites. Yeast infections are by far the most common, accounting for an estimated 75% of cases in dogs. Bacterial infections cause about 20% of ear infections, and ear mites cause about 5% (or less) of cases in dogs. Bacteria resistant to antibiotics are an increasing cause of ear infections. This is diagnosed with a culture and sensitivity by a laboratory. Allergies are a very common cause of ear problems, in fact, many of the yeast infections are secondary to an underlying allergy. If there are recurring ear symptoms, allergy is almost certainly the cause. Environmental allergens such as pollen, molds, and house dust mites are frequent causes of allergy. Food allergy is also a common cause of ear problems. A pet is not allergic to a brand of food, but is allergic to one or more food ingredients. A food trial is the only method to determine if a food allergy is an etiology.

Valencia Veterinary Center is located at 23928 Summerhill Lane in Valencia. For more information please call 661-263-9000 and visit www.bestvalenciavet.com

Occasionally a foreign body will make its way into the ear canal and cause irritation or even perforate the eardrum. Pieces of plants, especially seedpods called foxtails, are a common foreign body that can cause ear problems. Anesthesia may be needed to remove the object.

Treatment of ear problems will depend on the cause of the disease, for example, a bacterial infection is treated differently than a yeast infection. A foreign body needs removal while ear mites need a parasite treatment. In general, treatment often involves oral medicine, topical medicine, and ear cleansers. It is also important to know whether the eardrum is intact, as many topical medications can’t be used if there is a ruptured eardrum. Ear problems are a malady your veterinarian sees on a regular basis. Most are healed with routine treatment but some cases can be more challenging. It is important to have a thorough exam, appropriate treatment and a follow-up plan to check on progress and ensure complete recovery. Many “repeat” infections are cases that never truly healed completely.

“The causes of ear disorders, are due to infection, allergy, and foreign bodies. ”

for PeTsProblems



feATUres

for PeTsevery Easter holiday I hear people talk about how they would

love to surprise their child with a real bunny. “A pet would be such a good way for her/him to learn responsibility”, they say. There is often no regard for the frightened bunny, which (after the novelty wears off) will often live out his short life in a cage. Cared for only by a resentful parent, these little animals often enjoy very little interaction.

Many of these rabbits (the lucky ones), are dumped at a shelter. Others are turned loose at a local park or in the woods, unprepared to face the dangers of predators. What lesson has the child really learned when the family subsequently tires of the rabbit and gets rid of it?

Physical Contact There are many reasons well-intentioned people lose interest and abandon their pet rabbits. Rabbits are prey animals, which often makes them frightened and skittish. It often takes them more than a year to trust and become comfortable with being held. Because many people don’t take the time to educate themselves, rabbits become viewed as a pet that really “does nothing and has no purpose”.

Loving patience is required as a bunny is acclimating to his new surroundings. Although bunnies look soft and cuddly, it doesn’t

mean they want to be cuddled. Being constantly handled is very frightening and stressful, as are sudden movements. In fact, stress can actually cause death in rabbits.

Myths People often have the misconception that there is little work associated with rabbits. This couldn’t be further from the truth! A rabbit habitat should have plenty of room for play. Happy rabbits like to toss their toys and run around.

Many people feed their rabbit only pellets and this is not a healthy rabbit diet. A rabbit’s diet should be 80% hay (which can get a little messy), pellets and at least 2 cups a day of fresh veggies (romaine, cilantro, parsley, endive, and radicchio to name a few). Spinach, kale and collards should be given in small quantities. Treats include carrots (no more than 2” a day), banana (1/2 oz at a time), and apple (about 1/8 of an apple). The apple is perhaps the best treat because there is fiber in the skin. Be careful to take out any seeds. Apple seeds are poisonous to rabbits.

Education Before choosing to bring a bunny home, educate yourself first. There are scores of books written about owning a rabbit and the care and responsibility involved. Should you decide a bunny is a good pet for your family, ALWAYS visit your local shelter or rescue. Never buy a bunny from a pet store or a peddler selling outside of a store. If after reading this article it sounds like a bunny may be a little more than you bargained for, steer clear of temptation! Opt for a stuffed fuzzy or chocolate rabbit instead. .

Bunnies and easter Don’t Mix...Unless of Course they’re chocolate

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Pet Me! Magazine™


10 AMAzINGLY sMArT & ProDUCTIVe ANIMALs HUMANs CAN LeArN froM

14

Let’s face it, when it comes to your canine children, you want the best for them. A place where the love and attention

they need and want is guaranteed.Castaic Canine Camp sits on 17 pristine acres of land adjacent

Castaic Lake. Castaic Canine Camp o�ers boarding, daycare, training facilities, and services for all ages, breeds and sizes of canines.

Castaic Canine Camp accepts furry guests for a day visit or extended stay, and o�ers inter-action with other dogs or separate accommoda-tions according to your pet’s special needs...and your needs for them.

Castaic Canine Camp Offers:BoardingDaycarePet SittitngDog Walking

Pet TaxiTrainingPet Parties& Much More

Pet Taxi

Castaic Canine Camp is literally a home away from home for dogs

CASTAIC CANINE

CAMP

Pet taxi is for those of you who know your pet is well to stay at home while you're gone for the day. But you know you can't make it on time to take your pet out where they need to go. We provide transportation to vet's o�ce, groomer's, friend or relative's house, and even the airport. Wherever your pet may need to go or be picked up we can transport him. This service is not only for dogs, we also provide transportation for livestock. Also we can pick-up and deliver any supply you may need for your livestock and house pets. Rates depend on mileage, please call for more details.

(661) 257-0957 • (661) 257-187036975 Ridge Route Rd.

Castaic, Ca 91384www.castaiccaninecamp.com

email: [email protected]

H umans have proven themselves to be the planet’s most dominant species, due to our highly developed

communication, critical thinking and predatory skills. But that doesn’t mean that we don’t have any competition. There are plenty of animals that we can learn from by watching the ways in which they communicate and learn from each other. Try taking a cue from these 10 amazingly smart and productive animals.

1. Octupi and squids: Cephalopods — octopi, squids and cuttlefish — may be some of the smartest animals in the ocean. After studying them, scientists have deduced that cephalopods are always trying to stay busy, as they hate being bored. They use tools, are efficient eaters, and can learn new skills.

2. Dolphins: Dolphins may love humans just as much as humans love dolphins. The highly collaborative marine mammal is also incredibly intelligent and communicative and may actually be the second-smartest animal in the world, just after humans. Their brains are 4-5 times larger than other animals’ brains who have similar sized bodies. They also have a well developed neocortex which helps them process emotion, recognize themselves in a mirror, demonstrate an ability for cultural learning, and understand abstract concepts.

3. Pigeons: Although they’re often associated with dirty, crowded urban environments, pigeons are productive animals with high intelligence. They have highly developed memories, recognize themselves in a mirror, and can identify even subtle differences between different objects.

4. Pigs: Pigs are known to compensate for their mud-slinging, trough-eating ways by demonstrating high intelligence, but did you know just how smart pigs are? They’re very social and even emotional animals that can “play” computer and video games at least as well as chimpanzees. They have an excellent sense of direction and learn from each other, when they’re not trying to trick each other.

5. Rats: Rats may be one of the most abhorred creatures on Earth, but they’re still pretty smart and very resourceful. Rats are extremely adaptable and can almost always find an escape route, which is why they’re so resilient.

6. Squirrels: A slightly cuter version of the rat is the squirrel, another cunning rodent. Squirrels sometimes trick spying animals by pretending to hide their food in one spot, and then really finding a safer place for it when no one’s watching. After months have passed, squirrels can remember the exact place they stored their food, sometimes using clues to help themselves.

7. Crows: Crows may have annoying calls and scare away other, more attractive birds, but they’re so smart that even humans could learn something from them. Crows are very resourceful animals that turn all kinds of objects into usable tools for getting



feATUresfood from hard-to-reach places. They also have great respect for their elders, and watch older birds when they want to learn a new skill.

8. Bees: Bees have shown scientists that they are very in tune with the natural world, not just including pollinating flowers. They use the sun for direction, are punctual, and also have the ability to learn colors, sounds and even exact places. And if you’ve ever noticed a bee’s seemingly erratic flying pattern, you’ve actually watched it communicate to other bees the specifics of the food they’re finding.

9. Dogs: Scientists are still discovering just how smart dogs are. They’ve already proven to be loyal, good communicators and may have decent memory, and now scientists believe that dogs may have the ability to understand someone else’s point of view. Through tests, dogs have also proven to understand concepts and form real perceptions of things.

10. Elephants: Elephants are widely regarded as smart, efficient animals that use tools, groom themselves, and have even inspired robotics. A new robotic arm was modeled after an elephant’s trunk, which can pick up nearly any type of object and seamlessly move it and use it as needed. Elephants also have large brains — weighing around 5 kilos — and use objects to protect themselves, either as weapons or to intimidate their attackers.

Pet Article courtesy of http://pet-articles.blogspot.com.



By Drs. Foster & Smith Educational Staff

With this ad.

I s a food reward always necessary? To answer that question you must first decide if your dog is food-motivated. If he is, and you

want him to have some obedience training (sit, stay, and come), then get yourself a bag of dog treats and start learning the best ways to train.

Positive reinforcement is a way to increase or maintain a behavior by giving the dog some type of stimulus. This could be a treat, a toy, or a pat on the head as a reward for good behavior. Positive reinforcement can be used to maintain existing good behavior as well as in initial training.

Furthermore, positive reinforcement (e.g., a treat) has been shown to increase correct behavior when given intermittently once a dog has associated the reward with the behavior.

When you are beginning to train a dog to come, rewards should be consistent, so that the dog associates the treat with correct behavior.

Once you have trained the dog to come to you, if you vary the delivery of the reward either by giving a treat for instance every third time, or randomly, it will actually increase the probability that your dog will come to you consistently. This is termed partial reinforcement and dramatically decreases the likelihood that your dog will forget the correct behavior when you really need him to respond, even if he doesn’t smell a treat in your hand.

As with many behavioral patterns, it is not known precisely why this works - just that it does - consistently.

When you use treats to help in training your dog, choose a small treat. Whether it’s crunchy, meaty, or sweet is completely up to you and your dog. Just be sure that your dog likes the treat and can quickly consume it. If he has to work at eating the treat, he may be distracted from the task you want him to perform. @2009 Drs. Foster and Smith, Inc. Reprinted as a courtesy and with permission from DrsFosterSmith.com (http://wwDrsFosterSmith.com) Free pet supply catalog: 1-800-323-4208 (See pg. 14 of the April/May Issue for an example)


training withtreats



MARCH/APRIL 2011 Pet Me! Magazine™

Pet dental health is as important as caring for our own teeth. Human dentist recommend brushing after every meal, a

professional cleaning every 6 months, and about every 2-3 years a professional deep cleaning under local sedation to scrape away tartar underneath the gum line. Our pets oral health should not be treated different, their tooth and gum structure as well as the plaque and tartar they develop are not any different than our own. Yet, owners often never brush their pet’s teeth and are hesitant to put them under anesthesia for a thorough deep cleaning. Some owners do take their pets to local “non- anesthetic” teeth cleaning facilities believing that by doing this, their pet will no longer need a professional deep cleaning done under anesthesia. This is a misguided belief that pet owners must be made aware of the serious deficiencies and risks associated with any dental service performed without anesthesia. Dental Scaling without anesthesia will not allow sufficient access to the tooth surfaces for complete cleaning or evaluation. The American Veterinary Dental College discourages anesthesia free dental cleaning. It can cause trauma or injury to oral tissues especially if the pet moves. Even though no anesthesia is involved, it can cause death associated with fear and! or the stress related to the holding and manipulation that is required to keep the pet still. But most importantly, owners are mislead into believing that these services are equivalent to those performed by a veterinary provider under anesthesia. Thus they’ are surpnsed when severe periodontal disease develops and progresses to the point where costly dental extractions are needed on teeth that could have been saved had they done regular dental care with their veterinarian.

Periodontal disease is advanced disease of the oral cavity. It is classified from level one (mild) to level four (severe). Each level is defined by the amount of tartar on the teeth, redness or inflammation of the gums, the presence of bad breath, and the amount of loosening of gum tissue around a tooth which can vary from slight softening of the gums to shrinking bone mass and loss of ligament support around the tooth.

Studies show that periodontal disease, if left untreated, can shorten your pet’s lifespan by 2 YEARS! Periodontal disease can have deleterious effects on the rest of the body. Studies in human medicine show that periodontal disease is directly associated with heart disease. So when your veterinarian recommends for your pet to have a dental under anesthesia, it should not be considered as a cosmetic procedure for pretty teeth, but as an overall benefit to the health of the pet.

By Dr. evelyn Vega, Happy Pets Veterinary Center

Your PEt,s

DeNTAL HeALTH


Pet Me! Magazine™

I guana’s are one of the most popular reptiles found in your local pet store. They are usually an easy pet to take care of compared

to other reptiles. It is best to do your research on any pet you get prior to purchasing it. Make sure that you are aware that an Iguana can grow to a considerably large size and if you are not equipped to handle them when they grow up, please refrain from purchasing one. One of the most common diseases that iguanas suffer from is malnutrition. Unfortunately many owners feed their pets on lettuce. Although this contains enough moisture, there is not enough nutrition to meet their needs. Spinach and other leafy greens which contain B vitamins and iron can be added to the lettuce. Also, fruits and vegetables can be cut up small and introduced alongside the lettuce. Some Iguanas have become so used to eating lettuce that they will not eat anything else. Their legs become stiff and swollen and they become listless and inactive. Most people do not notice that there is even a problem until the pet is in serious condition.Serious burn injuries can be caused by exposed light sources which are too bright or which are too close to the iguana. This can happen if your iguana has out-grown his enclosure and has no choice but to be near the light source. If there is an exposed light bulb in the light source, then this can reach blistering temperatures itself while it is heating up the surrounding cage. To eliminate this problem, it is best to fit a protective device to ensure that no direct heat reaches your pet. These are easily

available from many pet stores and so this horrible problem is easily avoided.

Other conditions can also occur such as mouth rot and abscesses in other areas of the body. These need to be spotted and treated as soon as they occur. The only remedy is to take the iguana to a vet who will clean out the infected areas and prescribe medication.

Iguanas can be wonderful and rewarding pets and will provide lots of happiness to their owner but it is important to keep an eye of them and treat anything which may be wrong. Providing the proper iguana health care for your pet is important.

18

as pets

By Terry Dayton, Ph.D, C.A.s.

Keeping green

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Documents

March/April 2011 Issue of Pet Me! Magazine