september/october 2011 issue of pet me! magazine

Your Guide To All Things Pets

Beagles ProtectingAmerica’s BordersPet Me! InterviewsThe Beagle Brigade

3Non-PrescriptionRemedies - CatDoctor Approved

CANINE BLOATThe Silent Killer ofHealthy Dogs

PET ME! Is Always FREE

To Good Homes

Sept/Oct 2011

Open 7 Days a Week 365 Days a Year No Appointments Necessary

Mcgregor How adorable is this little guy! McGregor is a Pekingnese/ Spaniel mix and just has the most fun personality. He loves everyone and gets on well with other dogs. He is around 5-6 years old and just loves to play. He enjoys tummy rubs and running around with his pals at the shelter. McGregor is a huge Volunteer favorite, we all know him and love him and so we would love him to find his new family soon. McGregor would be a great addition to any family and would bring lots of love and fun to that lucky family. Please come and meet McGregor and we’re sure he will be leaving with you! A4323108

Bandit Can you resist this face? I think not! Meet Bandit, one sweet little black and tan Chihuahua who has more personality than you would think probable! Bandit plays nicely with other dogs and loves all his 2 legged friends. He has friends at the shelter but what Bandit would really like is a new family to call his own. Don’t be fooled by his small stature, Bandit has plenty of energy and would love to go on long walks with you exploring the big wide world beyond the shelter kennel that is his “home” right now. Come on down to Castaic shelter and meet your new 4 legged furry friend! A4309643

Rosy Yes, we have horses and ponies at the shelter! Rosy is a gorgeous strawberry roan Appaloosa mix around 14-15 hands high. She is around 10-12 years old and is sweet and calm. Equine adoption applications are available from the shelter office and remember it is highly recommended that your vet check out any horse you are interested in adopting. A4274634

Wilbur Are you looking for the near perfect dog? Well look no further, he’s at Castaic Shelter in kennel 7! Wilbur is an adorable Lab mix who also happens to be a real gentleman. He’s sweet and gentle and is a spry 7 years young!! You don’t get to be a mature dog without learning a thing or two,it’s likely that Wilbur is housetrained from what we’ve observed and he also gets on well with everyone, from kids to dogs of all sizes, Wilbur is just a great dog. Mention him at the shelter and the first thing they say is “what a nice dog” and it’s so true.We all love Wilbur and enjoy our time with him but what we would really love is to see Wilbur in a new home where he can have fun, enjoy his walks and have a really comfy bed to snooze on. Come and meet Wilbur and see if maybe he’s the perfect dog for you! A4321671

Bella Calling all Rottie experienced owners! Bella is looking for her new home and she would love an active family that would include her in all their adventures. Bella is very smart, she knows sit and down and walks nicely on leash. She gets on well with low-medium energy dogs and is great with people, she loves her 2 legged friends especially when they are ready to hand out lots of tummy rubs and play with her. Come and meet Bella if you see a large cuddle bunny in your future! A4324361

Please Contact Castaic Animal Shelter at 661.257.3191To Adopt One Of These Perfect Pets,

or Visit Our Website: www.PetMeMag.com

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Web: www.petmemag.com

SEptEmbER/OctObER CONTENTS 5 ANCIENT ORIGINS The Dog Days Of Summer

6 FRIENDS DON’T SCRUFF FRIENDS How Not To Handlle Your Rabbit

7 3 NON PRESCRIPTION REMEDIES For Your Cat Approved By The Cat Doctor

8 THE BEAGLE BRIGADE A Pet Me! Exclusive

11 CATS Indoor Vs. Outdoor

12 A DIRECTORY FOR ALL THINGS PETS

14 CANINE BLOAT The Silent Killer of Dogs

18 BOW WOWS & MEOWS PET FAIR 11th Annual

19 SEPARATION ANXIETY Are You Leaving Your Pet Alone

22 WARM WEATHER THREATS Keeping Your Pet Safe During The Summer

From ThePublisher

Finally, September arrives. The days shorten, giving us early twilight and relief from the stark heat of the “Dog Days of Summer.”

In this issue we take a look at animals and their roll with the United States government. Pet Me! Magazine interviews the Beagle Brigade; a cadre of highly trained beagles protecting our borders as a unit of the United States Department of Agriculture. Sniffing out dangerous contraband, the Beagle Brigade protects us against agricultural pandemic.

As October approaches, the 2011 Bow Wows & Meows Pet Fair provides an opportunity for prospective pet owners to save an unwanted pet and bring home a wonderful new family member for a modest donation. There will be over 200 dogs and cats to choose from, all of which are spayed, neutered, microchipped and current on their vaccinations. The County of Los Angeles will also be on hand, offering license renewals and vaccination updates.

Despite the waning heat, Pet Me! Magazine reminds its readers that protection from heat exhaustion and your pet’s hydration are still very real concerns. In this issue, Pet Me! Magazine offers ways to help your pet adjust to spending more time alone as children return to school and vacations come to an end.

Thank you for reading! We at Pet Me! Magazine always welcome your comments and suggestions. Thank you for your wonderful emails and kind support.

Bridget Alves Publisher Pet Me! Magazine

Please Contact Us For A Subscription-Annual Subscription By Mail: $12

PUBLISHER AND EDITORBridget Alves

PRODUCTION/GRAPHICS Michelle Nati

COVER DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHYTony Zinnanti Photography

PUBLISHED BYPet Me! Publications

Find Us On FacebookPet Me! Magazine

Pet Me! Magazine™ SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

Pet Me! Magazine™ 5

imaginations wander. In the multitude of stars, they picked out shapes of beings; many of great beasts and ancient lore depicting battle, victories and beauty. In time, the sky would be divided into 88 constellations, each given its particular region and significance.

As they kept track of the sky, the ancient astronomers would know how the stars revolved in the background of the heavens with those seen and unseen as the seasons shifted. As the summer heat of the northern hemispherebegan to swelter, “Sirius,” also known as “The Dog Star,” would slip behind the daylight of the morning sun. On our modern calendar, this conjunction starts about July 3rd and lasts throughout early August. Thus, this period of time came to be called, “The Dog Days of Summer.”

As Sirius and the Sun conjoined and traveled the sky by day, some ancients ventured to guess that the heat of the great star would beat upon the earth, amplifying the Sun’s summer radiance. Over thousands of years, the folklore has shifted from the banal to the fantastic in the story’srichness. In either case, we share with the ancients no mercy from the stars above during the blight of heat of the “Dog Days of Summer.” - Tony Zinnanti

When we hear the term “Dog Days of Summer,” we imagine a heat wrinkled pooch spread about the ground hopelessly seeking to cool itself

despite the waves of warmth that rise from the sun baked ground. In fact, the truth behind the folklore of mid-summer misery reaches far above the ground and beyond the cloudless, searing sky. So, where does the phrase “Dog Days of Summer” come from?

The answer to the Dog Days of Summer is found high above in the constellation of “Canis Major,” commonly known as “The Great Dog.” Savvy astronomers of millennia long ago looked to the darkened skies and let their

Ancient Origins: “The Dog Days of Summer”

The answer to the Dog Days of Summer is found

high above in the constellation of Canis Major...


Pet Me! Magazine™6

Rabbits are still somewhat less well known than our most common companion animals, we sometimes subject them to care and behavior methods used

on dogs and cats. This misapplication can range from the harmless to the life-threatening (as in administration of oral forms of penicillin).

Dogs and cats carry their newborn babies by the scruff (and nurse them round the clock). They commonly use this method to transport the babies from one location to a place the parents feel will be safer. Newborns weigh very little, and they know to hold still and not struggle when carried. Once these babies have gained weight and are able to move around on their own, their parents no longer lift them by the scruff.

As prey animals our domestic rabbits have a different approach to raising their young. Baby rabbits sleep continually until disturbed by the return of their mother at mealtime. Mom buns stay away from their nest in order to not attract predators to the area.1) They return only to feed (usually once a day) in the early dawn.2) Their babies are totally defenseless until they are able to run and move about on their own.

What happens when a rabbit is picked up by the scruff?Their skin is made up of three layers, the epidermis, the dermis and the subcutaneous. Just as in our human skin, rabbits’ skin is plentifully supplied with nerves, which allow them to feel your touch; temperature; and pain. The subcutaneous layer consists of fat, connective tissue, blood vessels and nerves. This layer helps hold the skin to the muscle tissue. When you lift a rabbit by the scruff the skin

is torn loose from the muscle tissue. In humans, when skin’s function is disordered we experience a strange or abnormal sensation. I assume a rabbit feels the same discomfort and unease. Could this be why some rabbits seem irritable or unfriendly or do not want to be touched?

After babyhood, Bunny loses the “freeze” reflex and may struggle and hurt herself trying to get free when restrained. Scruffing is what happens when a hawk or raccoon has you in her grasp and is about to make you her supper. Thus scruffing is both painful and terrifying. When placed back on the ground, Bunny may attempt to get away as she would from any predator. While rabbits may never actually enjoy the handling necessary for routine care, there are many ways to accomplish these tasks that are less frightening and therefore more effective as well as more humane than scruffing. We do not lift our cats and dogs by the scruff, they are much too heavy. We have even more reason not to scruff rabbits. Using scruffing as a way to control an animal, during nail clipping for instance, can be done as long as their rear end is supported against a solid surface.

For information on appropriate handling visit: www.rabbit.org - Courtesy of the House Rabbit Society

3 Non-prescription Remedies

Weekly Adoption Events

West Palmdale Petsmart(39523 10th Street West)Saturday: 11:00 - 4:00

Petco – Saugus(26501 Bouquet Canyon Rd)

2nd & 4th Sunday’s of each month

Check out our Adorable Adoptables at:

www.ForgottenAngelsRescue.org(661) 273-9822

Forgotten Angels Cat Rescue

Friends Don’t Scruff Friends: How Not to Handle Your RabbitBy Sandi Ackerman

GROOMING SALON & PET ADOPTION(661) 296-2020 For Appointments

27737 Bouquet Cyn. Rd. Suite 124Saugus

Precious Pets Grooming Salon

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Visit our

booth at the

Bow Wows

& Meows

Pet Fair

We Speak Meow, Your Cat Can Feel The Difference!

As a cat doctor, I love to see you bringing in your cat for a visit with me, either for the all-important annual wellness check-up or when your cat needs my help to

feel better. That said, there are situations when you can find the help your cat needs for simple problems in your medicine cabinet.

First of all a warning: certain over-the-counter non prescription human medications are deadly to cats. The worst is probably acetaminophen-(Tylenol)-even one can kill a cat by damaging their red blood cells, causing a severe anemia and kidney or liver damage. So, please, the following remedies are generally safe, but use common sense and please don’t play veterinarian. If your cat is losing weight, has changes in appetite or thirst or severe respiratory signs, don’t reach for a home remedy, call a veterinarian!

Let’s start with a simple amino acid, L-Lysine. L-Lysine, like other amino acids is a protein building block, not a drug. If your cat is a feline herpes carrier (and more than half of all cats are) ¼ tsp. (500 mg) of L-Lysine powder added to your cat’s canned food can help your cat avoid flare-ups that can occur during times of stress. The powder is easily ordered on the internet. We use L-Lysine to fool your cat’s herpes virus into self-destructing by using L-Lysine, instead of another amino acid Arginine, when making new copies of itself. This decreases the amount of herpes virus in your cat’s body and hopefully eliminates clinical signs such as sneezing or squinting one eye and reddish brown discharge. Green or yellow discharge from your cat’s eye or nose is probably not feline herpes and deserves a veterinary visit.

For Your Cat Approved by The Cat Doctor3 Non-prescription Remedies



FEATURES

I guess you have to remember that they’re beagles; rambunctious, sometimes unruly and with a constant nose for the occasional treat. But, these beagles work

under authority of the federal government in a manner few others are capable, as they protect the United States from dangers that might wreck havoc on people, agriculture and industry.

The Beagle Brigade at Los Angeles International Airport is part of the United States Department of Agriculture, which operates as part of the United States Customs and Border Protection. The LAX division of the Beagle Brigade is trained to uncover fruits, vegetables, plants and meats which are being carried into the United States by passengers from abroad. The operation is a critical one because items infected with parasites or disease can give way to pandemic destruction of crops and losses in the millions of dollars.

The Beagle Brigade was brought together as part of border protection for the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics and it has been around since. The government wisely chose

the beagle for its keen sense of smell and its stature. “The dog is a good ambassador,” explains Agricultural Specialist Supervisor, Diana Verity.

By virtue of the beagle’s smaller size and friendly demeanor, people are more receptive to the dogs and, therefore, more likely to disclose possession of items that should not be brought into the country.

Adoption and Training

The Department of Agriculture looks for beagles that are energetic, food trainable and that will pass a temperament test. Dogs of three years, or older, are preferred because they are much less distracted than puppies. The dogs are then sent for training in the Georgia facility where they undergo an initial five weeks of training on odors. Finally, they are introduced to a handler who undertakes an additional 10 weeks of training. Then it’s testing time.

To be part of the Beagle Brigade, each beagle must pass a

Pet Me! Magazine Interviews:

The Beagle Brigade

Story and Photography by Tony Zinnanti

From left to right, Susan Terlaan with Rocket, Jill Chen with Mela, Leticia Hale with Tyco, Michelle Schlinskey with Aruba and Min Kim with Jino.



certification test. However, the Department of Agriculture understands that certification is a team effort between the beagle and the handler. To pass or fail is as much a human issue as it is a canine issue. Fortunately for all, most of the teams pass the rigorous testing.

Once the beagles is certified, they are placed at a port of entry and given time to acclimate to their new home. There, they begin their service life of eight years. When beagles grow old and weary, it is typical for their handler to personally adopt them and take them home. Working together daily, there is an indelible bond between beagle and handler.

On The Job

I try to wade amongst the pack, finding angles for photos as the beagles carry on with each other. They posture and pant. They prick their ears in their fabulous surroundings of the security corridor of LAX’s Terminal 7. They are a pack of happy coworkers and friends.

Jino, a tri-color beagle, who is handled by Agent Min Kim, lowers his head and takes a whiff of a passenger’s leg. Jino shifts his eyes, opens his mouth in a panting smile and moves to the next passenger. Jino is swift; evaluating each subject with speed and precision before turning around to make glancing eye contact with Agent Kim.

As part of their mandatory four hours per week training, the dogs are given a slalom course of bags and suitcases. One or two of the bags is loaded with a target item. The beagles go to work sifting through scents, around and over the faux luggage. Finally, there is a pause, a nudge and the beagle’s indication of the bag holding the illegal cargo. “Show me,” is the handler’s prompt for the beagle to verify the suspicious cargo.

While this Beagle Brigade is exclusively trained to detect agricultural items, the team of beagles has uncovered stunningly exotic contraband from time to time. Supervisor Verity tells of a story where a beagle reacted to a woman entering from Germany. It turns out that the woman had been concealing a monkey beneath her jacket. But for detection by the beagle, the primate and its potential diseases. Other notable “beagle busts” have included 60 pounds of buffalo tendon from Vietnam, lemons filled with fruit flies headed to Florida and exotic items such as elephant toenails. (continued on page 17)



(continued from page 8)

-If your cat seems to feel fine, but both his eyes are watering with a clear discharge and he is sneezing either dry or wet sneezes with no colored discharge, he or she may be experiencing some allergies. If you are feeding fish, try switching to poultry (chicken or turkey). If you have a deodorized cat litter, try switching to an unscented dust free litter and an uncovered litter box.

Chlorpheniramine (also known as Chlortrimeton) , is an over-the-counter antihistamine that can really help many cats with pollen or dust allergies. Use ¼ to ½ of a 4 mg tablet once or twice a day; if it’s going to help, it should work within 24 hours. Rare side effects include sleepiness (how are you going to tell?) and very rarely, diarrhea, in which case stop using chlorpheniramine. Chlorpheniramine is not for cats who are acting sick.

While almost all cats vomit now and then, I will often see an interesting pattern in senior cats. They will vomit almost nightly, either in the early morning hours or when you first feed them in the morning. As cats age, their gastroesophageal sphincter gets a little lazy and they can experience nighttime “heart burn” ( acid reflux esophagitis). Giving them ¼ of a 10 mg. famotidine tablet (Pepcid AC) at night or a bedtime snack can help stop this. Obviously, if your senior cat is vomiting repeatedly or is losing weight, don’t try this remedy – call your veterinarian!



The answer isn’t a simple yes or no – it depends on the cat and where you live. Most veterinarians, including all of us at The Cat Doctor & Friends, tend to favor a safer

indoors only lifestyle.

That said, not every cat can be happy as an indoors only cat. For owners who want an indoors only cat, I encourage adopting a kitten who has never been outdoors. As I like to say, “What a cat doesn’t know, he doesn’t miss.” Cats who have spent significant time outdoors can feel imprisoned indoors although some do adapt well, especially timid or anxious cats. Many outdoors only cats are grateful to come indoors-no more looking over their shoulder for unknown dangers.

The advantages of an indoor only lifestyle are obvious – no coyotes, no cars, no dog bites, no exposure to unknown poisons, no exposure to fleas or ticks or other parasites and no exposure to most infectious diseases. Indoor only cats tend to live longer and it is easier to monitor a cat’s health when he or she lives indoors, since an indoor cat must use a litter box and can only eat and drink what you offer him. So if your indoors only cat stops using the litter box, or starts drinking a lot of water, you will know right away. Hint – calling your veterinarian should be your next move.

Outdoor cats tend to use the outdoors instead of a litter box which is one of the advantages, at least for the owner, of an outdoors lifestyle at least as far as convenience goes. While I can’t say I love litter box cleaning duty, newer litters have eliminated litter box odor as a major problem if you scoop conscientiously and wash litter pans weekly.

The other advantage of an outdoor lifestyle is the avoidance of obesity, which is a major problem for many indoors only cats. Outdoor cats do tend to burn more

calories, especially if they hunt. The bad news about cats who hunt are their exposure to tapeworm if they hunt and eat rats or mice and the significant decrease in songbird populations wherever there are many outdoor cats.

In order to prevent an overweight indoor cat, try environmental enrichment and avoiding the common practice of free feeding (a never empty bowl of dry food). Environmental enrichment involves window perches, “cat trees”, toys and playing with your cat. Some cats will fetch, others will jump at a string waved in their face and some prefer an empty paper bag or box to explore. A newer idea is the “food ball” which is a ball filled with treats that the cat must manipulate in order to get a treat. For more ideas, go to www.catvets.com/healthtopics/wellness.

Because indoor cats depend on us for entertainment, I believe that we develop deeper bonds with our indoor cats. They get to know us and our habits and we start to understand their little quirks, likes and dislikes. It’s a lot like a good marriage. Having an outdoors cat is more like dating….non – exclusively.

One last thought – it seems to be a very common myth among cat owners that if a cat never goes outdoors, he or she won’t need to go to the veterinarian for annual check ups. While it’s true that an indoor cat will probably have fewer health problems, he or she can still have dental issues or allergies, diabetes, kidney, liver or heart disease. They’ll need fewer vaccines then outdoor cats do, though.

In conclusion, I vote for indoors over outdoors for many reasons. If your cat absolutely must go outdoors, please keep them inside from early dusk until well after dawn, to decrease the chance of a coyote encounter. Please consider an outdoor enclosure as a compromise – good examples can be seen at www.habitathaven.com.- Courtesy of The Cat Doctor and Friends

Cats: Indoor

Vs.Outdoor



Trusted Vets in and around the SGVStevenson RanchVeterinary Hospital25832 Hemingway Ave.Santa Clarita • 661-799-0655www.srvc.aahavet.org

Valencia Veterinary Center23928 Summerhill LaneValencia • 661-263-9000www.bestvalenciavet.com

VIP Veterinary Hospital26111 Bouquet Cyn RoadSaugus • 661-222-PETS (7387)www.vippethospital.com

Seco Canyon Animal Clinic27935 Seco Canyon RoadSanta Clarita • 661-296-8848www.secocanyonanimalclinic.info

The Cat Doctor & Friends26055 Bouquet Canyon RoadSanta Clarita • 661-259-5288www.catdoctor.com

Happy Pets Veterinary27550 Newhall Ranch RoadValencia • 661-295-9972www.happypetsveterinary.com

Palm Plaza Pet Hospital2501 E. Palmdale Blvd.Palmdale • 661-272-4551www.palmplazapet.com

Dawn Smith Veterinary 330 West Avenue “I” 661-948-5065

Remarkable Rescues and Animal SheltersBrittany FoundationAgua Dulce • 661-713-5240www.brittanyfoundation.com

Forgotten Angels Cat RescueActon • 661-273-9822www.forgottenangelsrescue.org

Second Chance RescueActon • 661-269-1041

Save A Kitty, Inc.818-825-3096www.SaveaKittyCA.org

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

Ratz Nest Rescue 661-303-7872www.ratznest.weebly.com

Citizens for Sheltered Animals, Inc. 26893 Bouquet Canyon Road C-318661-513-9288 www.citizensforsheltedanimals.com

Great Groomers Precious Pets661-513-077827737 Bouquet Cyn. Rd. Suite 124, Saugus, 91350

Pawpular Pet SuppliersPet Supply Santa Clarita26831 Bouquet Canyon RoadSanta Clarita • 661-296-2654www.petsupplysantaclarita.com

Fox Feed17028 Sierra HighwayCanyon Country, CA 91387661-252-9792

Dynamic Dog TrainersDoggone HappyTami Cox (Certified) 661-310-4133

Best Boarding FaciltiesAll Breed Boarding 661-618-6628 www.hashaus.com

Canine Country Club 20341 Blue Cloud Road Santa Clarita • 661-296-0566www.cccofscv.com

Castaic Canine CampNorth Ridge Route Road Castaic • 661-257-0957www.castaiccaninecamp.com

Animal AftercareGuardian Animal Aftercare818-768-6465www.guardianaftercare.com

Pampering Pet Sitters Dogone-itMarlee 661-251-3873

Kyle’s Custom Critter Care661-305-4981kylescustomcrittercare.com

A-Z Critter Care661-874-4373www.a-zcrittercare.com

Kitten Rescue www.kittenrescue.org

PetSave Foundation Bunny Rescue 661-478-7360 www.petsave.org

Your Directory For



Find more adoptables at petconnectus.com or contact your local shelter or rescue. Visit our website for ad-

ditional rescue and shelter information.

For questionsregarding Fosterand Adoption

Castaic Animal ShelterCall Debbie Rosato

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

Bunny Rescue/VolunteerContact Wendy 661-478-7360

Every 2nd SundayCastaic Shelter - Petco

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

Santa Clarita

Every MonthCastaic Shelter - Petsmart

(Seco & Bouquet) 11 AM - 3 PM24965 Pico Canyon Road

Stevenson RanchVisit our website for

dates and times

October 9th 10 AM - 4 PM Bow Wows & Meows Pet Fair

Hart Park, Newhall - Sundaywww.bowwowsandmeows.org

Sept 10th 8AM-12PMWag ‘N Walk

A fun morning walk for you and your canine companions. Join us for a day of

fun, family and fundraising! Rancho Simi Community Park

1765 Royal Ave, Simi Valley (Corner of Royal and Erringer)

www.arvsimi.org/Wag_N_Walk.html

September/OctoberAdoptions & Events

Ongoing AdoptionsCastaic Animal Shelter31044 N. Charlie Canyon Road Hours: Monday – Thursday:12 PM – 7 PMFriday, Saturday, andSunday: 10 AM – 5 PMClosed Holidays 661-257-3191

Castaic Shelter-Petco (Bouquet & Newhall Ranch)Every 2nd Sunday11 AM - 3 PM 661-297-6936

Petco (Bouquet & Newhall Ranch)26501 Bouquet Canyon Road Bunny Adoptions 7 days a weekContact Wendy • 661-478-7360

Petsmart- Cat & Kitten Rescue Stevenson Ranch24945 Pico Canyon RoadEvery Sat & Sun 11 AM - 3 PM661-260-3990

Cat & Kitten Adoptions Petsmart Canyon CountryEvery Sat & Sun 11 AM - 3 PM 19059 Golden Valley Road661-250-8204

Heirloom Pet PortraitsSanta Clarita Photographic Studio661-775-0890www.scphotostudio.com

All Things Pets!



One minute your pooch is mopping up his dinner. The next, he’s going into shock, only to become comatose and die all before you have a chance to know what happened. This is bloat. It is one of the most

frightening things that can happen to your pet.

The exact cause of bloat is still unknown. Generally, it is believed that excessive eating and drinking of water followed by exercise can cause bloat. It is thought that exercise causes food or fluid in the stomach to cause a build-up of gas resulting in a fatal effect.

Canine bloat, also known as “gastric dilatation-volvulus” or “GDV,” is a medical condition where the stomach becomes over-filled with gas causing the stomach to become distended. This can often lead to the stomach twisting; a condition also known as “gastric torsion.” Without treatment, the chance of death is about 60 percent. Even with treatment and surgery the death rate is 15 to 33 percent. Bloat is the second leading killer of dogs;cancer being the foremost.

There are a variety of causes of bloat. Some of the more likely causes include the breed, having a deep and narrow chest, eating too quickly or too much water consumption in a small period of time or following exercise. For example, dry kibble can expand in the stomach when it hits liquids, leaving no place to expand. Pre-existing gastrointestinal disease is also a suspected cause. And, while this condition can happen to any breed, certain breeds are more susceptible. Deep chested breeds are especially at risk, for example, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Irish Setters, Weimaraners, Standard Poodles, Dobermans, Rottweilers, Basset Hounds and Gordon Setters.

Bloat occurs when the sphincter between the esophagus and the stomach stops functioning, causing an obstruction of outflow

through the pylorus. This prevents the escape of gas causing the stomach to twist on the longitudinal axis of the digestive tract. Gas distension may occur prior to or after the stomach twists. The most common direction for rotation is clockwise, viewing the animal from the posterior. The stomach can rotate up to 360° in this direction and 90° counterclockwise. If the volvulus (twisting) is greater than 180°, the esophagus will close off, preventingyour dog from relieving the condition by belching or vomiting.

An otherwise healthy dog will experience low blood pressure, decreased blood supply to the heart and stomach, and shock. Pressure on the portal vein decreases blood flow to the liver, an organ vital to removing toxins and bacteria from the blood. The spleen can also be damaged with the twisting cutting off the blood supply, leading to blood poising, peritonitis, toxic shock and death.

Prevention of bloat can be difficult. Because there are so many possible causes for this condition, prevention must be examined on an individual basis. Since bloat is believed to be hereditary, these preventive measures can only decrease the chances of bloat. But, if you have a dog that is at risk, there are a couple of things that you can do to decrease the chances of this fatal condition:

• Do not overfeed• Feed 2-3 small meals a day• Do not use elevated food bowls• Do not allow your dog to drink large amounts of water after eating• Add an enzyme product to your dogs food• Keep emergency veterinary contact handy

The symptoms of canine bloat include:

• Anxious, restless• Distended abdomen• Attempting to vomit• Excessive drooling• Whining• Pale gums• Increase in heart rate• Difficult breathing

If not treated, it can be fatal. If you see any symptoms contact your veterinarian immediately. Every second will count!

Canine Bloat:

The Silent Killer of Healthy Dogs

I love ‘em when you have to lea ve ‘em!Mobile Dog Training • Dog Walking

PET SITTINGMarlee

(661) 251-3873

DOGONE-IT!Visit our

booth at the Bow Wows

& Meows Pet Fair

and get a free dog treat

Featured in this photo is Bruno an abandoned Mastiff mix found wandering the streets of Acton emaciated and frightened was rescued by a local family who already has 3 large dogs and cannot keep him. Bruno is people & pet friendly and is available for adoption. Please contact [email protected] for further info.



FOOD

ENTERTAINMENTFUN!

SHUT TLED PARKING By Hart Park

FOR PEOPLE & THEIR PETS

William S. Hart Park24151 Newhall Avenue

Santa Clarita, CA 91321

Admission is FREE

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2011 • 11AM–4PM

FREE

BRING YOUR PETS!FREE community fair celebrating pets, encouraging animal awareness & promoting pet adoption within our community and beyond...BowWowsAndMeows.org

May not be combined with any other offer. Offer expires 10/31/11.



Visit our

booth at the

Bow Wows & Meows

Pet Fair

Family time has a whole new meaning.

661.948.5065330 West Ave I Lancaster, CA 93534

Smith Veterinary Hospital“Your Other Family Doctor”



222-PETS (7387) www.VIPpethospital.com

VPI Pet Insurance, Care Credit,

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(continued from page 9)

A Saved Dog Saves Its Country

One of the most significant interceptions by the Beagle Brigade was a stash of fresh curry leaves that came in with a passenger from India. The uncovered leaves were inspected by a U.S. Agricultural Agent and revealed small insects. The insects turned out to be Asian Citrus Psyllids.

Worse, the bugs were infected with candidatus liberibacter, a bacterium which causes “citrus greening,” a deadly disease for citrus trees. The “citrus greening,” or huanglongbing (yellow dragon disease), can be considered one of the most serious citrus diseases in the world. One properly trained beagle likely saved citrus rich California from millions of dollars in loss from disease.

Notably, the beagles that make up the Beagle Brigade are dogs that have either been donated or rescued. There is no breeding program for these canines. These are beagles that have been discarded over inconvenience and perceived incompatibility with their former homes. Saved form shelters and rescues, the beagles of the Beagle Brigade have found a new life, a critical purpose and a way to proudly serve their country.

These are beagles that have been discarded over inconvenience and

perceived incompatibility with their former homes. Saved form shelters and rescues, the beagles of the Beagle Brigade have found a new life, a critical purpose and a

way to proudly serve their country.

.

661-296-2654$5 OFFAny 30 PoundBag of Canidae

Dog or Cat



Seeking free family fun or looking for that perfect pet? The 11th Annual Bow-Wows and Meows Pet Fair will feature an exciting lineup of entertainment, pet-related vendors and

adoptable dogs and cats from Los Angeles County shelters at Newhall’s William S. Hart Park on Sunday, October 9.

The festivities kick off at 11 a.m. with a delicious array of food, including vegetarian options, demonstrations from Ventura County Sheriff K-9 Search & Rescue and an educational seminar on “The Truth About Pit Bulls”. The popular Famous Fun Dog Show, with categories ranging from best vocalist to mystery mutt to pet-owner look alike, will be making a return appearance, as well.

Bow-Wows & Meows will also feature low-cost vaccine and free rabies and micro-chipping clinics, personalized ID tags and children’s bracelets, pet photographers and a special $8 day pass to the Kids Zone.

Pet adoptions at Bow-Wows & Meows are a low $30 and there will be more than 200 dogs and cats to choose from. All pets are

spayed or neutered, micro chipped and current on vaccinations. The county will also offer pet license renewals on site.

Leashed pets are welcome at the fair, which lasts until 4 p.m. The Fun Dog Show, which costs $10 to enter per category, starts at 1 p.m., while the Ventura County Sheriff K-9 Search & Rescue demonstrations will be presented at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Throughout the day, DJ Mark Fortier of What A Party! will spin festive tunes and provide amusement.

Since it began in 2001, the Valencia-based Bow-Wows & Meows, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, has adopted out more than 1,000 shelter animals at their annual pet fairs.

Bow-Wows & Meows Pet Fair, Sunday, October 9 at William S. Hart Park, 24151 Newhall Avenue, Newhall. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Free. For more information, visit www.bowwowsandmeows.org or call (661) 297-5961. Hart Park will offer shuttled parking for people and pets at just $2 and free parking remains available in the surrounding areas.

11th Annual Bow Wows & Meows Pet Fair Offers Free Family Entertainment & Low Cost Pet Adoptions



No doubt about it… Summer is never long enough. There is never enough time to do all the things we want to do, go to all the places we want to go, and never enough

time off from school or work. By the time fall arrives, most pets have gotten used to having more attention and interaction with their owners.

When school begins, schedules change. Younger kids are gone most of the day and college students are away altogether. For working households, the pace on the job may pick up too. Your schedule may be more hectic and require you or your family to be away from home for longer periods during the day. However, your pet still faithfully waits for you with the same or even greater needs as before. They may have higher expectations after enjoying the luxury of your increased attention during the warmer months.

One of the concerns people most often mention about their pet is “separation anxiety”. That’s a big term that means your dog found creative ways to let you know they didn’t like the fact that you left them behind. Your pet could chew up carpet, furniture, doors, etc. They might even bark until the neighbors call the police. In extreme cases, your pet may soil your bed or favorite chair. None of these behaviors typically inspires us to be patient, loving and gentle. However, your pet is frightened and totally distressed if she is having these behaviors. She would never disappoint you on purpose.

For simple cases of separation anxiety, you may try these remedies:

• Your pet has gotten used to the signs of your leaving; you put on your shoes, turn off the TV, and grab your keys on your way out. Try being less predictable by changing your usual routine.• When it is time to leave, just leave quietly. Don’t make a big ordeal of your leaving with hugs, kisses, or long goodbyes. These clues might make your pet feel more anxious. Try ignoring your pet for about 15 minutes before you leave. • Create a safe, secure room or area for your dog while you are away. Include their bedding and favorite toys, and provide some normal household sounds by playing a radio or leaving a television on. • Sometimes a second furry family member can provide both pets with the security and companionship of a good buddy during the day. Be sure to involve your current pet in the selection process for a good match.

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

Are You Leaving Your Pet Alone?By: Marla Ashmore

WhenYour

Family Pet DeservesThe Best!

WhenYour

Family Pet DeservesThe Best!

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Lisa A. Pope, D.V.M.Amber Wheelbarger, D.V.M.• Full Service Veterinary Hospital• All surgical patients provided with pain medication• Microchip identification & implantation available

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Pet Me! Magazine | 661-255-9979 • FAX 866-259-9201 | petmemag.com27943 Seco Canyon Road | Suite 518 | Santa Clarita | CA | 91350

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Pet Me! Magazine is delivered to thousandsof pet loving households in the SCV.

We are distributed in The Signal Newspaperand in hundreds of local businesses throughout theSCV, and Antelope Valley.

Your ad is included in our social network marketing, and directory both onlineand in the magazine free of charge.

There is no additional charge to place your ad on our website.

Advertorial is free with your half page or larger ad.

We cover local pet related events and services in the SCV.

Our publication and readership is growing daily - both print and online.

We support adoption and strive to educate our readers about their pets needs.

We donate a page in every issue to a local animal shelter.

We are distributed at several pet adoption, rescueorganizations and local animal shelters.

It’s a great opportunity to remind local pet ownersanout your business - whether it’s well establishedor recently opened.

A few good reasonsto advertise inPet Me! Magazine™

Pet owners should be completely aware of common summer time dangers that can threaten our pet’s lives including heat strokes, burnt paw pads, snake bites, and pool drowning.

Knowing how to prevent these threats and how to detect the early signs of trouble can save your precious pet’s life. Palm Plaza Pet Hospital would like to remind you to protect your pets from the dangers that the summer days bring. Pets have a hard time cooling off because they don’t sweat. High body temperature can lead to tremors, seizures, permanent brain damage and even death. In some cases your pet can get a heat stroke for no specific reason other then it being very hot outside.

Make sure you’re always very observant of how your pet is acting and responding to the current heat. Shaded areas and access to fresh clean water at all times is very important. Some pets will refuse to drink hot water regardless of how hot and thirsty they are. Make sure multiple fresh water sources are available for your pets at all times.

Signs of heat stroke include, heavy panting, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, tremors, weakness, bright red gum color, and sticky thick drool. If you suspect that your pet is having a heatstroke, it is very important to get your pet to a veterinarian immediately. Leaving pets in the car with the windows “cracked open for ventilation” is extremely life threatening. Temperatures of over 120 degrees Fahrenheit can be reached inside a car with “cracked windows” within minutes. Absolutely, never leave your pet in the car.

Going out for a walk or to the park with your pet is a lot of fun, try scheduling these activities early in the morning or later during the day once the heat of the day has decrease. Burnt paw pads are very painful and the healing process of these injuries can be very slow, painful and frustrating, so make sure your pet is not walking on hot gravel or cement.

Some snakes can be very aggressive, highly venomous and deadly. It is very important to always be aware of your surroundings, if you suspect that your pet has gotten bitten by a snake, it is very important to stay calm and avoid exerting your pet. It is very important that you take your pet to the veterinarian so that he/she may receive medical attention immediately. Do not, under any circumstances, try to catch the snake; this can put you in harms way.

If you’re suffering because its hot outside, chances are, your pet is also suffering from the heat too. If bringing your pet indoorto a nice air-conditioned room is not feasible, there are other

great things you can do to help keep your pets cool. Place kitty pools in a shaded area to help keep the water cool and make sure to change the water daily. Be very cautious with small breeds, geriatric and pediatric pets, and pets with certain medical conditions such as epilepsy. These pets may run the risk of drowning, It is very important that they are allowed to play in the kitty pools only under direct supervision. Same advice is recommended for pets playing or having access to regular pools along with making sure they know how to swim and how to get out of the pools without assistance.

Olga Ramirez R.V.TPalm Plaza Pet Hospital

Warm Weather Threats


Warm Weather Threats

Sophia Meet Sophia a gorgeous Maine Coon! Her stunning markings and exceptional personality make Sophia a volunteer favorite! Sophia is very affectionate and loves to be brushed and fussed over. Sophia is a happy good girl who uses her litter box and is good with other cats. The shelter has been a scary place for Sophia who is patiently awaiting her forever home. She has all her shots and has tested negative for Feline Leukemia. Please consider rescuing beautiful Sophia. Abandoned by her family after 8 years, Sophia deserves a loving home. Won’t you open your heart and home to Sophia?

Cookie Cookie is a loving petite tortoiseshell (torti) who is looking for her forever home. She was surrendered to the shelter with her brother because her family had allergies. Cookie is a 1 ½ yrs. old. She is very friendly, loves to play with string and toys. She has a lot of energy and is good with cats (of the opposite sex) and dogs. Cookie would do best in a home with older children. Cookie is an indoor cat accustomed to curling up in bed at night. She is happy and healthy and will provide years of love and affection for her new family. She can be adopted through the Castaic Animal Shelter. To learn more about Cookie call 661-255-9979 #A4297523

Buttons Buttons is a loving handsome orange tabby who loves to have his beautiful long fur brushed. He is a very friendly mellow boy who will follow you around patiently waiting to shower you with love and affection. He gets along with other cats, dogs and older children. He’s a 1 ½ yrs. old neutered male up to date on his shots. In his previous life he was an indoor kitty who curled up at night in bed with his family. He would love a nice lap to cuddle up on. Buttons can be adopted through the Castaic Animal Shelter. To meet Buttons and learn more about him call 661-255-9979. #A4297521

Lela Simply put Lela is the most affectionate kitty you will ever meet! She is a 2 yr. old Maine Coon surrendered because her owner was moving. Lela loves to be brushed for hours. She would love to have a human of her own. She is an ideal pet for someone who works from home or is retired. Lela is extremely beautiful with classic striking Maine Coon markings. She is selective about her feline companions and would prefer to be the only kitty. She is a good girl who uses her litter box regularly. She is healthy, has recently had a complete vet check (comes with records) and has tested negative for feline leukemia. She is just the perfect kitty! Won’t you please make room for Lela and give her the love she deserves. Lela can be adopted through the Castaic Animal Shelter. To meet Lela and learn more about her call 661-255-9979. #A4286162

Freckles Freckles can’t figure out how she ended up at the shelter after 11 years with her family. She’s very sad and confused. Freckles is friendly and gets along well with other cats. She desperately needs her knight in shining armor to rescue her from the shelter and give her the warm secure home every senior deserves. Freckles is an indoor cat. She is up to date on her shots and has tested negative for feline leukemia. Please consider adopting this senior girl . Seniors are the most at risk in the shelter. Freckles would make an extraordinary companion. Many cats live to be 20 yrs. old! Please come visit Freckles in the Cat Habitat at the Castaic Animal Shelter. #A4312897

Please Contact Castaic Animal Shelter at 661.257.3191To Adopt One Of These Perfect Pets,

or Visit Our Website: www.PetMeMag.com

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the Bow Wow's &

Meow's Pet Fair

september/october 2011 issue of pet me! magazine

Documents

castaic shelter

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shelter office

new family

lots of love

castaic animal shelter

new home

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