lowcountry dog magazine dec/jan 2012
DESCRIPTION
A Corgi Christmas, Pilots N Paws, De-mystifying Joint Supplements, Pet Problems During the Holidays, Rafter's Trot for Canine CancerTRANSCRIPT
magazinedecember/january 2012
volume 8, issue 1
TM
pup in the air with pilots & paws
holiday gift guide
rafter’s final trotfor cancer
A CorgiChristmas
contentsPublisher
Leah England
(843) 478-0266
Advertising
Brian Foster
843-732-0412
Communications Intern
Gillian Nicol
Online Contributor
Leah Nicole Hawkins
Guest Journalist
Stratton Lawrence
Staff Photographer
Laura Olsen
www.lauraolsenimagery.com
Accounting
Carrie Clark Financial Services
(843) 367-9969
Lowcountry Dog Magazine
PO Box 22
Mt. Pleasant, SC 29465
www.lowcountrydog.com
Web: lowcountrydog.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/leahengland
Facebook: facebook.com/lowcountrydog
december/january 2012
fido’s friends 4Ryan Nelson
rafter’s last trot 6
“pup” in the air with pilots & paws 12
a corgi christmas 14
calendar of events 21
health and wellness 22
De-Mystifying Joint Supplements
training 24
Holiday Pet Fears
adoption 26
Recycla-Bull Terrier Rescue
144
Lowcountry Dog’s mission is to be the leading local resource for dog owners regarding regional events, health and wellness information, trends, style and lifestyle choices. We also strive to be a mouthpiece to the public for various dog related non-profits and promote pet adoption and other responsible pet care practices.
Dog lovers can pick up the bimonthly magazine for free at most area veterinarians and pet stores throughout the lowcountry, as well as numerous restaurants, coffee bars and retailers. A full distribution list is posted to the magazine’s web site, lowcountrydog.com. Subscriptions are also available. Please call 843-478-0266 for more information.
The entire contents of this magazine are copyrighted by Lowcountry Dog Magazine with all rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue is expressly forbidden without permission of the publisher.
Lowcountry Dog Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any product, service, or vendor mentioned or pictured in this magazine in editorial or advertising space. Views expressed by authors or advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher.
6
Cover photo, 1st and 3rd Table of Contents photos by Laura Olsen
Imagery. 2nd Table of Contents photo by Doug Pinkerton.
This magazine is printed on 100% recycled paper.
Continue the green process by recycling this copy.
Lowcountrydog 3
All Natural Nutrition, Supplements, Herbs, Homeopathics
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843.377.8740
Lucia’s has a wide variety of Holiday collars, toys, gifts and more!
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Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464(843) 856-7384
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Ask about our specialty services such as sugar scrubs, paw pad treatments & hot oil treatments!
Divine!Local Pick-up/Delivery Available
(843) 849-5444577 Belle Station Blvd. Mt. Pleasant
Food Lion Shopping Center on Long Point Rd
www.pleasantpawsdayspa.com
1. What’s the best thing about owning a dog? The utter love you feel for them and the love they feel for you.
2. What do you f ind the most frustrating about your dog, or struggle with as a dog owner ? Fletcher was a terrible puppy. He ate 25 pairs of my shoes, chewed through
my leather handbags and even once ate an entire zucchini bread from the
counter. But I realized that many labs are like him and it’s truly about
correct training and exercise.
3. All time favorite memory of your dog? I rescued a newborn kitten who had been ousted by his mother. When I
woke up after the kitten’s first night with us, the kitten was snuggled under
Fletcher’s neck. That kitten is now our 7-year-old cat Marley, and his best
friend is still Fletch.
4. Favorite place to hang out with your dog in Charleston?We used to go to the beach, but now that Fletch has slowed down we enjoy relaxing in our back yard.
5. With what aspect of your dog’s personality do you most identify?His ability to get through tough times. Right now he’s going through chemotherapy after they removed a
cancerous mass on his thyroid. I found the mass right after my mother had a massive heart attack, but I
knew he would make it through for me. I just knew it.
6. In your opinion, what’s the one item all dog owners must have?All dog owners should have a great veterinarian that cares. Dr. Mike Forcier of Animal Medical Center
has been taking care of Fletch for years.
7. If your dog were some other sort of animal, what would he/she be?A horse.
8. How does your dog inspire you? Or what has your dog taught you about life and work?He inspires me to not sweat the small stuff, shake off the negativity and roll
in the grass when I want to.
9. How do you KNOW you and your dog are best friends?Because at the end of the day all I want to do is curl up with a glass of wine,
my husband Darren and Fletch. It’s the best of both worlds!
10. What’s your favorite thing about Lowcountry Dog Magazine?I love all the photos of local dogs and the stories. There’s something special about Charlestonians and our four-legged best friends.
4 Lowcountrydog
F ido’s FriendsRYAN NELSON
Occupation: Writer & PR Consultant for Nelwater Consulting
Dogs in Household: ONE Named: Fletcher, AKA Fletch
Lives: MOUNT PLEASANT
photos by Laura Olsen Imagery
Lowcountrydog 5
Come see the Lowcountry’s largest selection of collars, beds and toys
843.881.0800 Mt. Pleasant Towne Centre hairywinston.com
HAIRY WINSTONPet Boutique & Grocery
Naughty or Nice?
We have everything to make your pup’s holiday
Happy & Brightat just the
Right Price!
www.lauraolsen.com
photos by Laura Olsen Imagery
6 Lowcountrydog
In 2001 Jane Hirch’s two-year-old
Australian Shepherd, Rafter, was
diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of
bone cancer. Veterinary specialists told
Jane radiation treatments would prolong
Rafter’s life for 18 months at best. Moving
forward with the treatments was not an
easy decision. “We were wavering,” says
Hirsch, “so we asked Dr. Kent, Rafter’s vet
at UGA, if it were your dog, would you do
it? He immediately said that he would,
because Rafter was young and healthy in
other respects and emotionally sound to
take the stress of going for treatments.
I’ll always be grateful to him for that
advice. Dr. Feinberg, our local vet,
agreed, saying we needed to give Rafter
the chance to live. Thank goodness we
had a support team of wonderful caring
vets in both places.”
And so, one week after diagnosis,
Jane and Rafter began the 10-hour
round trip pilgrimage to the University
of Georgia every other day so he could
receive his treatments. Rafter received
these treatments 3 times a week for four
weeks. “Dr. Kent told us that most owners
drop their dogs off on Mondays and pick
them up on Fridays.
Rafter and I would
never survive that
separation!” So Jane
and her house mate,
also named Jane,
got into a routine of
leaving at 4:45 AM
and splitting shifts.
“One of the most
heartbreaking parts
of the routine was
that Rafter learned
which days were
treatment days. He
would stay as far
away from the car
as he could. Though
we did soften the
difficulty of the trip
and treatments with
a chicken sandwich
from Wendy’s. Even
if he was sound asleep
after an exhausting
treatment, his head
would pop up within
a mile of arriving at
Wendy’s!”
After that first round of treatments,
Rafter’s cancer was miraculously gone. “We
were on a schedule of check ups first one
month out, then 3 months, then 6 months,
then one year, then released. This really
was the beginning of a positive experience
with cancer, and one of Rafter’s greatest
gifts. Rafter knew the routine and as soon
as he was finished, he would start doing
his repertoire of tricks for cookies from
the veterinary staff. His antics helped me
see that Rafter really enjoyed being an
entertainer, so we dove into therapy work
with human cancer patients.” Cancer
patients related to Rafter’s fight against
the disease, and the vivacious dog made
both children and adults smile at his
tricks as they forgot about their medical
problems, even if only for a few minutes.
Rafter is most notable in the Charleston
community as the mascot for the canine
cancer benefit Jane organized in 2005.
Inspired by Rafter’s struggle with the
disease, Jane created Trot for the Cure,
known now as Rafter’s Trot for Canine
Cancer Research, in effort to raise
awareness of and funds for research. “I
started thinking about all the animals
we saw at UGA who had cancer, and how
many wouldn’t be as lucky as Rafter. My
heart ached for those who would lose their
beloved dogs. The Trot was something I
could actively do to help future dogs that
would face that awful diagnosis of cancer.”
Little did she know the event would
become so popular it would grow into
an annual event, with 300 participants
each year and raising over $80,000.00 for
cancer research at UGA. “Although the
Charleston area is now fortunate to have
2 wonderful specialty hospitals,” says
Hirsch; “our local oncologists depend on
the research that’s done at facilities like
UGA to help them in devising the best
and most effective treatments. Research
provides our local specialists with the best
by Leah England
Rafter’s Last Trot
Rafter with his support group in the Trot-mobile which he pulled to start each group of walkers during
the 2006 Trot for Canine Cancer Research. Photo by Jon Shumpert.
Rafter performing one of his signature tricks, the wave. Photo by Doug Pinkerton.
Lowcountrydog 7
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Rafter with his support group in the Trot-mobile which he pulled to start each group of walkers during
the 2006 Trot for Canine Cancer Research. Photo by Jon Shumpert.
8 Lowcountrydog
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and most current information to aid in diagnosing and treating
our pets.”
But even good things must come to an end. The final Trot will
be hosted by Magnolia Plantation on January 8th 2012. Jane hopes
to raise enough to reach the $100,000 mark. For their ticket
admission, participants will enjoy a beautiful walk through the
grounds at Magnolia Plantation, BBQ, entertainment provided
by Dixie Dancing Dogs and seminars from leading veterinary
oncologists and other veterinary specialists in our community, as
well as those from the UGA program where Rafter was treated.
In August 2008, Jane noticed that Rafter had a slight limp.
When resting him for 2 days didn’t help, Jane took him to Dr.
Feinberg who recommended tests at UGA. Jane’s nightmare had
occurred – Rafter’s cancer had returned in the same seventh
cervical vertebra, seven years after his initial diagnosis “It broke
my heart to make him go through the treatments again, but he
took them in stride. Unfortunately, this time the cancer was more
aggressive and the radiation only slowed his tumor for several
months. But his last months at home were happy -- he got lots of
cookies, treats and special time on the couch with us.”
Even though this year’s Trot will be the last, Jane remains
dedicated to the cause. “Although we lost Rafter 8 days before his
10th birthday, I know that he did more in his short lifetime that
I ever dreamed of accomplishing in mine. I can thank him for
helping me to find a passion and a purpose in life. Furthering
canine cancer research remains a top priority of mine and this
is his legacy, which I am honored to carry on. Although this will
be the final Rafter’s Trot for Canine Cancer Research, there will
be another venture down the road to continue my promise to
Rafter.”
We hope to see many Lowcountry Dog readers at this final Trot.
Let’s help Jane reach her $100,000 goal in honor of all those lost
to cancer, thinking especially of the sweet dog who defied the
odds and went on to live an extraordinary life.
Rafter’s Trot for Canine Cancer ResearchJanuary 8th 2012Magnolia Plantation & GardensCheck in at 11:00$25 pre-registration$30 day of eventMore info and registration at: http://k9careunit.org/trotforthecure/about/
Jane took this photo the day before Rafter passed on. “I wanted a picture to help
carry on his cause.”
Walkers enjoying the day at Magnolia Gardens 2009 Photo by Doug Pinkerton
Lowcountrydog 9
Pet Boarding & Doggie Daycare
111 Acres Drive • Ladson, SC 29456(843) 553-3710 (843) 553-3713 fax
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mindfulmanners.net
(843) 588-5133125 E Wappoo Creek Dr. STE 202
Charleston, SC 29412www.ActiveLifeCharleston.com
Stay active with your pet! Help yourself while helping them.
15% of new patient fees are donated back to local animal
shelters and rescues.
Call to book an appointment!
Dr. Kelly O’Neill and her lowcountry dogs, “Shrimp” & “Grits.”
Fine Art and Portraitureby M.C. Churchill-Nash
The perfect Christmas gift for the dog lover!Gift Certificates Available
Please visit Atelier Gallery,153 King Street, Charleston to view a selection of MC’s work.
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Holiday Gifts>
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1. Peppermint Chew from Hairy Winston. 2. Rope Bone from Hairy Winston. 3. Gingerbread Man from Hairy Winston. 4. GoNut Everlasting Chew from Hairy Winston.
5. Stuffed Retro Reindeer from Lucia’s 6. Classic Sock Monkey from Hairy Winston. 7. Boiled Wool Gingerbread Man from Lucia’s. 8. Stuffed Retro Santa from Lucia’s.
9. Boiled Wool Peppermint from Lucia’s. 10. Tag Pet Tracker www.pettracker.com 11. Custom Smart Phone Case from Etsy.com seller ModernPetPortraits 12. Pillow Pack
Dog Bed from Molly Mutt, www.mollymutt.com for area retailers 13. Breed Nutcracker Ornaments from Lucia’s. 14. Gefilte Fish from Dolittle’s
Hairy Winston, Mt P. Towne Centre, www.hairywinston.com • Lucia’s Premium Pet, Publix Shopping Ctr. Daniel Isl., www.lucias premiumpet.com • Dolittle’s, Summerville, Mt, P and West Ashley www.dolittles.com.
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photo by Laura Olsen Imagery
Lowcountrydog 11
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Dogs of all ages need higher education.Get a Pet Degree with TLC!
Private Training and Group Classes in 7 locations across the Tri-County Area. 15% Discount for Rescue and SPCA Alumni.
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(843) 607-1227
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Sponsor a waste bag dispenser at your favorite local park
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For more information contactKeep Charleston Beautiful
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(843)579-7501
Ask aboutbusiness
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> 10.
photo by Laura Olsen Imagery
12 Lowcountrydog
As the Safety Net
Manager for Humane
Net, my job duties
include rescuing
animals from
the euthanasia
hallways of shelters
in the Lowcountry.
Founded in 1998,
Humane Net is
a coalition of
over 20 animal
organizations, and
the group’s mission is to help our area’s
most at risk homeless animals by placing them
in foster homes and smaller rescue groups.
There are many reasons why animal
shelters decide that a dog is best off with
a rescue group. The number one reason is
the time it will take for the animal to recover
from health or behavior issues. Another
reason is simply the need to free up space
for other animals that desperately need the
shelter’s help. Often, rescue groups or foster
homes are located hours or days away, so
transport becomes a huge factor. Though a
good number of volunteers are willing to drive
animals to their temporary homes, time can be
of the essence when a dog’s “hour is up,” and
a several hour drive won’t fit into the time line.
Enter Pilots N Paws, a group of pilots who
transport dogs in need in their own private
planes and ask nothing in return. The first Pilots
N Paws flight took place on February 8, 2008.
Since then, the number of general aviation
pilot volunteers has climbed to over 1,800,
with 8,200 registered users participating on
the Pilots N Paws website. Brett Grooms from
Goose Creek is one such pilot who donates
his time to saving animals while pursuing his
favorite hobby, flying his Cessna 172 four seat
aircraft. Brett began flying animals through
Pilots N Paws in 2009 and has now flown over
10 animals to safety.
I was slated to accompany Brett as he flew
three cocker spaniels from the Charleston
Animal Society to their new, temporary home,
but shelter volunteers drove the dogs instead.
We were given an alternative assignment:
pick up Pippa, a pit bull mix pulled from the
Gaston County shelter just one day before
her scheduled euthanasia, and fly her to the
foster mom awaiting her here in Charleston. So
on a picture perfect morning in October I met
Brett at the John’s Island Airport and nervously
climbed aboard the smallest airplane I’ve ever
seen to begin our journey to save Pippa.
During our departure, Brett kept asking if I
was ok. Perhaps my clenched fists and lack of
communication gave away my apprehensions.
I admit I was overwhelmed at first with the
swirling skyline, and all the dials,
switches, and radio chatter but after
about thirty minutes I began to really
enjoy the experience. I realized after
years of flying commercial airlines and
always being disappointed by an aisle
placement, I finally had the ultimate
window seat.
When we arrived at the Rock Hill/
York County Airport, just outside of
Charlotte Megan, the volunteer from
Ruffed Up Rescue who pulled Pippa
from the shelter, helped us load the
energetic dog into the back cargo area
of the plane. I had a brief premonition
of the dog attempting to get out of her
crate mid-flight, but she was an ideal
travel partner. She settled right in, and
never made a peep during the entire
flight!
Knowing what to expect this time, I
too settled into my seat and took in the
aerial sights with childlike enthusiasm.
Brett sensed my comfort level and
asked me if I wanted to take the
controls and fly for a bit.
I was reluctant, but with
some encouragement
and coaching I actually
flew the airplane!
We enjoyed smooth and clear weather on
the way home, and completed our journey with
a neat landing. It was now time for me to take
Pippa to her new foster mom Karen Lacey, but
using more conventional modes of transport.
My experience with Pilots N Paws left me
with a joyful heart knowing Pippa’s future
would be bright thanks to the generous
hearts of hobbyist pilots. I truly look forward
to working again with Brett and other Pilots N
Paws pilots to assist in the aerial transport of
dogs in need.
If you interested in helping foster, rescue
or transport animals in the Lowcountry please
contact Suzanne at suzanne@humanenet.
org. Pippa still needs a permanent home, so
please share her story and contact us if you are
interested in meeting this sweet girl, who has
already “earned her wings.”
To learn more about Pilots N Paws, and
volunteer your time as a pilot, visit
www.pilotsnpaws.org To learn more about
Humane Net, visit www.humanenet.org
Up in the Air withPilots & Pawsby Suzanne Carr
Pippa
Suzanne & Brett in the cockpit, and upon meeting a happy Pippa.
Lowcountrydog 13
14 Lowcountrydog
A CorgiChristmas
photography by Laura Olsen Imagery
Lowcountrydog 15
Penny, our 2011 cover model contest winner, invited a few of her closest Corgi friends to Hyde Park Farm and Polo Club to celebrate the holiday season in rustic, Lowcountry style. Grab a snuggly cable-knit wrap and a warm cuppa hot cocoa; it’s time for a Corgi Christmas!
Lowcountrydog 17
Opposite, Top: Panda (Top) Paddy & Pico (sweater) enjoy each other’s company in the horse stables. Opposite, Left: Danny Boy and Abigail are a dynamic duo. Opposite, Right: Walter guards the Christmas tree. Isn’t he handsome? This page: Rhetta greets everyone at the gate of the Hyde Park Farm cottage.
18 Lowcountrydog
Top: Rhetta prettily poses in front of the barn. Bottom: Lola and her human friend Thomas go for a cool afternoon ride. Opposite Inset: Cosmo and Thomas end the day hanging out on the back porch. Opposite: The stables are a gorgeous sight on a silent night.
Special thanks to Hyde Park Farm and Polo Club, Etsy shop SheriSewSweet for the burlap bunting on page 15, Hairy Winston and Lucia’s Premium Pet for the collars and canine sweaters, the Corgi Club of Charleston, and photo assistant Alexis Kaul.
I just LOVE sharing the fun of the farm with my CORGI friends.
Lowcountrydog 19
Start the New Year off on the right paw...
with a new friend from Pet Helpers!
8 4 3 . 7 9 5 . 1 1 1 01 4 4 7 Fo l l y R d . C h a r l e s t o n
w w w. p e t h e l p e r s . o r g
P u p p i e s & K i t t e n sA d u l t & S e n i o r P e t s
I just LOVE sharing the fun of the farm with my CORGI friends.
HOT SPOTDog Friendly Business
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• Apartments • Restaurants • Shops • • Attractions • Beaches and Parks •
• Nearby Destinations • Locally Made& More!
Coming in 2012Charleston’s Complete Guide
to All Things Dog
or bark to [email protected]
20 Lowcountrydog
Ellie Mae
falcor
cinnamon& friend
ginger
otis scoutpeanut & calliope
rusty
mocha
bruce & deedoh
chunk e. meatball
bryce
flison
hap
py
ho
un
ds cosmo
candice
basil
tiger
frank &angry bird
Upl
oad
phot
os o
f you
r hap
py h
ound
at w
ww
.low
coun
tryd
og.c
om/s
hare
/pho
to A
ll br
eeds
and
mix
ed b
reed
s ac
cept
ed.
izzy bee
upcoming eventsONGOING
frances r willis spca meet and greets At All is Well in Summerville on
the second Saturday of every month and
at Pet Lovers Warehouse in Summerville
on the third Saturday of every month.
Adoption counselors will be on hand to
introduce shelter dogs that have been
at the shelter the longest to potential
adopters. House-trained foster dogs will
also be on hand to mingle and meet the
public. Come and see our fabulous dogs
away from the stress of the shelter. You
may find your new best friend.
december 7th: 10:00am-2:00pm carolina coonhound donation drive/meet and greet at Dolittles
in West Ashley. CCR will be collecting new
and used items to help us continue our
mission of saving hounds. The group will
be collecting food, dog bowls, blankets,
dog beds, collars and leashes, crates, etc.,
and accepting monetary donations to help
with vet care costs. Drop- offs can be made
at the Summerville and Mt.P stores as
well.
december 9th 6:00pm-10:00pm santa paws party at square onion too! Come spread some holiday cheer for
our four legged friends - $10 admission-
benefits SWAT and Daisy’s Place - amazing
food, festive music, beverages, giveaways!
december 10th 12:00pm-5:00pm holiday sip n shop at square onion too. Come shop local, meet local
artisans and have complimentary holiday
snacks and sipping beverages! Get all of
your holiday shopping done and enjoy
giveaways to benefit SWAT and Daisy’s
Place. The adoptable dogs will be hanging
out too!
december 10th 11:00pm-4:00pm santa paws at Summerville and West
Ashley PetSmart for Charleston Animal
Society and Doc Williams SPCA.
december 11th 11:00pm-4:00pm santa paws at Mt. Pleasant and West
Ashley PetSmart for Charleston Animal
Society and Doc Williams SPCA.
december 11th 12:00pm-4:00pm adoption event for pet helpers at West Ashley PetCo.
december 13th-24th frances r. willis spca paws of christmas. Each day a featured dog is only $12 to
adopt!
december 16th pet helpers adoption event at Rick Hendricks
Jeep Chrysler Dodge.
december 17th 10:00am-6:00pm home for the holidays adoption event at the Charleston Animal Society.
december 17th doc williams spca
at 107 St James Avenue, Goose Creek.
december 17th 11:00am-2:00pm furlife german shepherd meet &
greet at Hairy Winston.
december 18th 11:00am-4:00pm santa paws for frances r willis spca Photos will cost $9.95 and $5 of every
photo will benefit Frances R. Willis SPCA!
What a great cause!
december 18th 12:00pm-3:00pm carolina coonhound meet and greet At Hairy Winston.
december 31st 12:00pm-3:00pm carolina coonhound meet and greet At Hairy Winston.
january 7th 12:00pm-3:00pm carolina coonhound meet and greet at Hairy Winston.
january 8th 11:00am, final rafter’s trot for canine cancer research Magnolia Gardens Charleston,
SC $25 PRE- REGISTRATION $30 day of
the event.
january 15th 12:00pm-3:00pm carolina coonhound meet and greet at Hairy Winston.
january 15th 12:00pm-3:00pm frances r willis spca meet and greet
at Pet Lover’s Warehouse in Summerville.
january 20th 4:00pm stingrays dog days of winter to benefit
Charleston Animal Society. Dog friendly
game!
january 21st 5:00pm doc williams yappy hour at 211 Meeting Street.
january 27th dog days of winter with the stingrays. Dog-friendly!
$5 of each ticket purchased through Pet
Helpers will go to the organization!
january 28th 12:00pm-3:00pm carolina coonhound meet and greet At Hairy Winston.
january 28th 9:00am doing the charleston akc all breed dog show, All Breed Obedience & Rally
Trials, Match. Exchange Club Park Coastal
Carolina Fairgrounds.
Questions? Comments?Call 843-478-0266. Want to submit event information?Visit www.lowcountrydog.com and click on Add an Event. We will do our best to include your event as space allows. Our online calendar lists all events in full.
With summer sunshine turning to damp
and cool air it is the perfect time of year to
evaluate our pet’s joint health. Providing
good quality joint support supplements is
one of the most common and important
aspects of maintaining joint health,
especially in colder weather and as the
pet ages. It is estimated that between 20
- 25% of the dog population suffers from
arthritis. Given that there are more than
6 million dogs in Canada and roughly 77
millions dogs in the United States, that
would mean we have between 16-20 million
dogs in North America who would benefit
from joint supplements. With so many
products available how does one choose
the right product for your pet’s specific
needs? Here are a few key ingredients
that are important to look for when
shopping for the perfect joint supplement.
Glucosamine is perhaps the most widely
known and one of the most important
ingredients for joint health. Glucosamine
is a fairly small particle and is absorbed
well by the body and is used to make
thick and viscous joint fluid. This viscous
joint fluid cushions the two bone endings
and allows them to glide smoothly over
each other. The recommended amount
of Glucosamine for a 50 pound dog is
1000 milligrams per day. If there is
less than this it is simply not enough.
Chondroitin is another common
ingredient found in joint supplements.
This molecule is an important
component of cartilage. It is a larger
molecule than Glucosamine and thus is
not as readily absorbed into the body.
MSM is an ingredient that is widely
known to have an anti-inflammatory
effect. This is important as inflammation
causes the release of hydrolyzing enzymes.
These enzymes cause the break down of
the joint fluid that cushions the joint.
Hylauronic Acid is another component
found in many joint supplements that
chemically is the same as joint fluid.
Wouldn’t this be the ideal product to give
to your pet you might ask? The downside
of Hylauronic Acid is that it is a very
large molecule and unlike Glucosamine
it is not absorbed well into the body.
Herbs are also a great choice for joint
support. A few herbs to look for are
boswelia, an herb that also helps to stop the
breakdown of joint fluid, yucca, curcumin,
and corydalis. Cinnamon is also a great
choice because it has a slight warming
quality for pets that have joint issues
that tend to get worse in cold weather.
One other suggestion is to add
Omega 3 fatty acids to the pet’s diet.
Omega 3 fatty acids are anti-
inflammatory by nature and help to
provide great joint support as well!
As always, it is generally a good idea
to be preventative when it comes to
joint care. It’s always wise to support
your pet’s health throughout their life
rather than wait until problems occur.
Christine Bessent, DVM is the owner
and founder of Herbsmith Inc. She created
Herbsmith Inc. as a way to provide impeccable
quality herbal supplements for pets. Dr.
Bessent has been a practicing Veterinarian
for nearly 25 years in Southeast Wisconsin,
most of which as a Holistic Veterinarian.
22 Lowcountrydog
DemystifyingJoint Supplements
by Dr. Christine Bessent, DVM
Lowcountrydog 23
Cageless Doggie Daycare Located within Pet Vet Animal Hospital
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The house is decorated, the gifts are
wrapped, the food is ready and it’s time
for your guests to arrive. Everything is
ready for the holidays except Rover and
Rosie, the family dogs. Rover is so excited
by the prospect of all the fun and visitors,
and he has found the best thing to mark,
that new tree in the corner. Meanwhile,
Rosie is cowering under the table but not
with doggie dreams of holiday goodies.
Though we all look forward to the
holidays, we are well aware of the added
stress the season brings. Hopefully we
have ways to deal with the added pressure
and excitement of the season.
But what about our dogs? They can be
just as excited, anxious or stressed and try
to tell us through their behavior and body
language. But are we listening?
Let’s take a look at Rover. If Rover
isn’t your dog, you have probably met
him. He LOVES everyone and everything.
Whether he is jumping, barking, grabbing
your pant legs or your sandwich, he is
overly excited and finds it difficult to calm
down. Rover has poor impulse control and
the added activities around the holidays
just make him more amped up than usual.
Can we help Rover learn to calm down
and control his impulses? Yes, but the
time to start is now, not the night before
your big holiday party. Dogs, like people,
don’t come with an off switch. It is
something they need to learn and will
make their lives better, even after the
holidays.
1. Reward Rover for all calm behavior.
Remember, dogs are always learning.
If Rover only gets your attention when he
is doing something that you don’t like, he
is learning bad behavior works. Instead,
praise and reward him when he is lying
down, relaxing or chewing on his bone.
2. Teach him to settle down on his mat
or place.
Use a mat, rug or Rover’s bed as his
special place to relax and earn lots of
good things. Ultimately the mat will
become his cue to lie down, calmly, when
things are going on around him. We will
actively teach him to go to his mat, but be
sure to take advantage of the times he’s
just hanging out with the family. If he
enjoys lying by your feet when you are
watching TV or working on the computer,
place his mat nearby and reward him with
something great to chew on, occasionally
dropping an extra treat on the mat. The
more he is rewarded for choosing to calmly
remain on his mat, the more he will want
to be on his mat.
When Rover is happy spending time on
the mat without distractions, make things
more difficult for him. Stand up and take
a few steps away from him, returning to
drop a treat on his mat. Then take a few
more steps, always returning to reward
him before he gets so excited that he stands
up to follow you. If he gets up, return to
your chair and wait for him to settle down
again. You will gradually increase the
intensity of your movement, add other
people to the mix, ring the doorbell, etc.
Now that Rover is starting to understand
that being calm and staying on his mat
makes good things happen, you can begin
to send him to his mat. Start small, take
a couple of steps away from his mat and
encourage him to go to his mat. Gradually
increase your distance and the time that
he can remain there.
Break it down into small, rewardable
pieces and before long, Rover will be able
to go to his mat and remain there when
people come into the house.
3. Make sit or down a requirement for
attention.
Dogs do what works for them. If Rover
has learned that jumping and barking
makes you pay attention, that is what he
will do. Make a commitment that Rover
must sit or lie down, calmly, before he gets
what he wants. If it is dinner time, Rover
sits before dinner is served. When it is
time to play fetch, he lies down before the
ball is thrown. You come home from work,
Rover must sit before you greet him. Be
consistent. Rover will soon figure out that
he has to offer a new behavior to get what
he wants. Now bring in your friends or
family to help, gradually making Rover’s
world more exciting but still requiring
24 Lowcountrydog
HolidayPet Fearsby Cindy Carter
(bah humbug)
Lowcountrydog 25
calm behavior to gain attention. Soon,
Rover will be a welcome member of the
party instead of the feared, out-of-control
party crasher.
Poor Rosie is still hiding under the table,
terrified by all the noise, people, music,
lights and merriment. In many ways, Rosie
is in more trouble than Rover. While Rover
is excited, Rosie is fearful and shy, and
possibly doesn’t have a place that feels safe.
Many people with shy dogs don’t realize
how difficult social events can be for them,
after all, they aren’t causing problems.
Instead, Rosie is hiding under the table
or in the bedroom, not stealing dessert
from the counter. It’s easy to overlook
Rosie’s fear while dealing with guests and
worrying that Rover might have a lapse in
judgement when Auntie comes in.
Rosie lacks self confidence and
sometimes that lack of confidence can turn
ugly. If Rosie is forced into a situation
that she can’t escape, her reaction could
possibly turn to aggression -- a good defense
is a great offense. How can we help Rosie?
Rosie’s shyness can’t be changed over
night, maybe not in several weeks, but we
can help her feel more comfortable and safe
during the holidays. Consider working
on a behavior modification program that
will help Rosie for the rest of her life, but
management is key for the short term.
1. Give Rosie a safe place to escape the
celebration.
We love our dogs and want them to be a
part of our lives, but too much too soon is
not fair to Rosie. Give her a safe, people
free place to retreat when the party is
overwhelming. Rosie may benefit from
having a crate in a quiet part of the house.
Provide her with something wonderful to
chew on, soothing music such as Through
A Dog’s Ear to calm and reassure her. A
Thundershirt is a good tool that helps
many dogs remain calm, just be sure that
you introduce her to the shirt when life
is calm and happy. We don’t want her to
associate the Thundershirt with the scary
things, making it a predictor of something
bad happening.
2. Teach touch or say hello.
By teaching Rosie a way to interact
safely with people, we allow her to choose
whether to say hello or leave. Teaching
touch is simple but remember, Rosie always
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Found during and named for hur-ricane Irene, Irene is a mini bull terrier. She has a unique look as she is almost all black/brindle. Miss Irene is crate trained, house broken, and walks well on a lead. She is young and energetic, so she will need a forever family that will give her plenty of exercise and training. Irene loves human interaction and is sweet on her people, whomever that may be! She cannot live with any cats.
Bella is the newest arrival at the Bullie Bungalow… a 4 year old white female weighing about 44 lbs. Bella is very quiet and easy to manage. So far, she’s done very well around submissive male dogs as she is not a dominant girl. Bella is already crate trained, walks well on a leash, and is housebroken.
Three year old Max is a smaller Bull Terrier, weighing about 44lbs. He’s going to have to be an only pet as he is not fond of other ani-mals. Max is strong spirited, ener-getic guy and is very loving. He is crate trained, walks well on a lead and he’s house broken. Max is looking for a lifelong friend!
Weighing in at 45lbs, Roxy is a sweet young girl of only 18 months! Roxy loves human in-teraction and attention. Roxy is dog friendly! She is looking for a forever home and family will-ing to continue her training. With consistency, Roxy will learn her manners and will be an even more awesome companion.
Recycla-Bull Terrier RescueRecycla-Bull Terrier Rescue is dedicated to the “3
R’s”: rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming. Our goal is
to place Bull Terriers that may have been homeless,
neglected, or surrendered into loving, stable homes.
As a shelter-less rescue, all “recycled” Bullies are
fostered in home environments to evaluate their needs
and prepare them for their forever homes. It is this
close and personal care that ensures they are restored
to health before being adopted.
When we evaluate possible foster or adoptive homes,
the needs of the dogs take first priority. Some rescued
Bull Terriers will need to be the only pet, or in homes
without young children. Like all dogs, they may or
may not be cat/dog friendly.
After adoption, Recycla-Bull Terrier Rescue likes to
keep in touch. We support our adoptive families with
tips on caring, training, health, and other FAQ’s upon
request! To find out if a Bull Terrier is right for you,
please visit our website at www.rcbtr.org.
Recycla-Bull Terrier Rescue runs on donations and
adoption fees. All fees go to the vetting of and caring
for the dogs. With the number of Bull Terriers coming
into rescue needing medical care, we can always use
your help. Please consider helping a bullie in need by
making a donation via PayPal or credit card at
www.rcbtr.org
26 Lowcountrydog
adoption
Frasier is white with brindle spots, and is around three years old. He is crate trained, walks well on lead, and really energetic. Frasier does not feel comfortable yet around other dogs, so he will need to be an only pet. He’s look-ing for someone to give him a chance and a forever home!
Possum is a sweet, comical and energetic 18 month old male weighing in at 50 lbs. A smart and sensitive youngster, Possum is white with brindle ears! This boy loves, loves, loves his Kong Wub-ba! Possum walks well on lead, is crate trained and house trained. For his forever home, he is look-ing for a stable, more settled fam-ily. Possum is dog friendly, but cannot hang out with any cats!
Lowcountrydog 27
gets to chose who, when or if she interacts
with other people.
Begin by holding your hand just a few
inches from Rosie’s nose. Most dogs will
sniff your hand out of curiosity. When she
touches your hand, mark the nose bump
and give her a tasty reward. Have her
repeat the behavior 5 or 6 times, then add
your cue.
Once she is happily touching your hand
from a distance and at different angles,
you are ready to introduce the touch with
another person. Start with someone that
Rosie is comfortable with, if possible.
Place your hand in front of the other
person’s hand, cue Rosie to touch and you
reward her. The next step is to have your
hand behind the other person’s hand,
you still cue and reward her. Then you
will cue Rosie to touch the other person’s
hand without yours being there, but you
continue to reward her. You will need to
practice with other people but be sure that
everyone knows the rules; Rosie gets to
choose and the stranger does not reach to
pet her.
3. Protect her from scary situations.
Pay attention to Rosie’s body language;
if she is worried or stressed, remove her
from the situation and give her a safe place
to relax. Some things to look for: tucked
tail, lip licking, yawning, turning her head
away, paw raises, whale eye, or lowered
ear carriage, just to name a few. Nothing
good comes from forcing a dog to stay in
a situation that creates fear or stress. In
fact, that frequently sets them up to fail
and puts Rosie and others at risk. Rosie
may not react outwardly to a scary person,
but it does affect her nervous system and
her future behavior. It is possible that she
will learn to act aggressively to drive the
scary thing away
4. Protect Rosie from the lure of great
food.
Many well meaning people offer tasty
treats to shy dogs in the hopes of helping
them overcome their fears. Unfortunately,
some dogs will move forward to take the
food then find themselves too close for
comfort once the food is gone. In that
case, some shy dogs will bite. The classic
fight or flight scenario. The better choice
is to have friends toss treats across the
room until Rosie is comfortable with their
presence and willing to engage on her
own.
That being said, it is your job as
Rosie’s owner and advocate to intervene
if someone gets a little bold with her.
Remember, that a shy dog if feeling
cornered or threatened, may bite.
Honor the dog that you have. Whether
you have a Rover, Rosie, or someone in
between, you are their advocate, the
person that they should be able to count
on for protection and guidance. Set them
up for success and remove them from
situations that they cannot handle before
something goes wrong.
Start now, move slowly, incorporate
everything into your daily routine and
your holidays will be filled with great
times shared with your four-footed,
canine friends.
Happy Holidays!
Cindy Carter, CPDT-KA, is the owner of
Mindful Manners Dog Training. Learn more
about Cindy and her training methods at
www.mindfulmanners.net
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