bow & wow times issue no. 18 - pets are forever

8/13/2019 Bow & Wow Times Issue No. 18 - Pets are Forever

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3/24Issue No.18 www.bowandwow.com.ph

A few days ago, my husband told me about his friend

who bought a 3-month old Shih Tzu puppy that died of

Parvovirus just a few days after they took it home. His friend

had bought the puppy from a commercial breeder, who

had obviously raised the innocent little puppy without anyconcern for its health and well-being.

Ive heard more than my fair share of similar stories from

friends and family. Awful stories about dogs purchased

from commercial breeders who eventually developed

life-threatening diseases or serious behavioural problems.

I get so infuriated when I think of places like Tiendesitas, with its stalls and stalls of

caged animals put up for sale like some sort of cheap trinket or toy. More often than

not, these poor animals are products of puppy mills, commercial breeding facilities that

aim to propagate maximum litters of puppies in order to earn maximum prots. Such

puppy mills are typically overcrowded, with barely enough space for the mother dog

and her puppies to live a semblance of an acceptable life. The mother dogs spend their

entire lives bearing puppies, like a birthing machine, until their reproductive capability

and quality of life is exhausted. The puppies are left to fend for themselves in unsanitaryconditions, without adequate veterinary care, without basic grooming or exercise,

and in some cases, with barely enough food and water. Given these conditions, they

eventually develop severe illnesses and congenital or hereditary defects. Sadly, their

lives are usually shortlived.

If you have decided on getting a new pet, the best place to adopt one is from our local

animal shelters such as PAWS and CARA. Or, if you really have your heart set on a

purebred, it would be ideal to acquire one from a reputable and responsible breeder.

The only way to identify a good breeder is to visit them personally, to see how they

raise their pets. Responsible breeders usually have impeccably clean and well-maintained

environments, complete and detailed health records of each puppy or kitten, and high

standards in terms of nutrition, exercise, and grooming. They know each puppy or kitten

personally and are able to share passionate and detailed information about the medical

history and individual temperament of each pet. Never ever buy from commercial breeders.The less we patronize these types of establishments, the more we are able to obliterate

their existence.

Pets are not toys. They are not meant to be sold as commodities, or played with for

only a while then left forgotten. Pets are not gifts. They are not meant to be purchased

and then given away to others who have not properly planned to care for them. Pets

are people, too they deserve to live healthy and happy lives with loving and caring

pet parents.

Happy Pet Parenting,

Pam So-Suarez

Brand Director

[email protected]

We digest it for pet parents... The Bow & Wow Times tracks all relevant

pet information from key websites, magazines, journals, animal research

and studies, and other credible sources. Then we summarize what is

essential for you to know in order to raise healthy and happy pets, and

become the best pet parents you can be. The Bow & Wow Times is in no

way intended to replace the knowledge and/or diagnoses of veterinary

professionals. Always consult with your veterinarian whenever a health

problem arises which requires expert care.

The Bow & Wow Times is a quarterly publicat ion of the Healthy Options Group of Companies with

corporate offices located at #3 Economia Street corner Calle Industria, Barangay Bagumbayan,

Libis, Quezon City, 1110 and trunk line of (632)637-8888. For subscription inquiries, visit any of

our stores listed above. Bow & Wow is a trademark registered at the Philippine Patent Office.

Pets are Forever

editorial staff

Christian Tanpresident

Romy Siapublisher

Pam So-Suarezeditor-in-chief

Lou Bootancirculation manager

Yanni Cardeoeditorial assistant

Ronald CruzArvin Solis

layout & design

Sky Printingprinter

directoryLevel 5, Shangri-La Plazal Mall, EDSA Mandaluyong City

(632) 638-3372

Lower Ground Floor, Greenbelt 5, Makati City(632) 501-3680

Robinsons Magnolia, New Manila, Quezon City(632) 477-2963

Excelsior, Eastwood City, Quezon City(632) 650-3010

Ayala Center, Cebu

soon to open

our visionto transform pet owners into pet parents

We believe dogs and cats must have the best nutri tion

and health care available.

We believe dogs and cats are not toys for our

amusement; they have feelings, they are very loyal

and they need our tender loving care.

We believe the best way to acquire new pets is through

pet adoption from the animal shelters.

We are against selling dogs and cats in pet shops

which involves prolonged connement in small cages.

We are against all forms of animal cruelty including

chaining and caging dogs.

We support the good work of organizations like

Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), Compassion

& Responsibilities for Animals (CARA), and People for

the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).

our values

editorspage


4/24Why Animals Do Not Make Good

Why Animals

Do NotMakeGood Gifts

Pets are Forever

Animals are not toys. They are sentient beings who, like us, require love and proper care to ourish. Although people who give animals

as gifts invariably have good intentions, it is unfair to give an animal to anyone unless you are absolutely certain that the person wants

that par ticular animal as a companion and is willing and able to give a lifetime of proper care .


5/24Issue No.18 www.bowandwow.com.phWhy Animals Do Not Make Good Gifts

Pets are For

Source: peta.org

Children Can Be CruelIntentionally or not, sometimes children are cruel to animals.

Puppies, kittens, bunnies, chicks, baby ducks, and other

young animals are especially vulnerable. Small children may

unintentionally torment and/or harm animals, even breaking their

fragile bones or causing other fatal injuries.

Adoration may turn to indifference or even hostility when a child

loses interest in an animal, who may then go without necessary

care. The childs parents or the adult who gave the child the animal

may become impatient and tr y to solve the problem by turning

the animal over to a shelter or a pound orworsepassing the

animal on to a series of homes, causing trauma, psychological

scarring, and behavioral problems.

Think Before GivingAdding an animal companion to the family is an important

decision. Adopting an animal means making a permanent

commitment to care for and spend time with the animal and toprovide for him or her in case of ones absence for the entire

life of the animal. Before adopting, consider the time and money

involved in proper animal care. Will someone have the time and

patience to exercise and housebreak the animal? Is someone

prepared to pay for food, accessories (such as toys, grooming

supplies, leashes and harnesses, and bedding), and veterinary

care, including spaying or neutering, ea treatment, worming,

and emergency care?

If a family decides to adopt an animal, every member of the

family should go to the local shelter together to choose the

animal, having already discussed the obligations and long-termcommitments involved. It is also necessary to be aware of local,

state, and federal regulations that govern animal ownership.

Most communities require annual licensing for dogs and cats,

and many require that animals be on the custodians property

at all times and that they be spayed or neutered.

Too Few Happy EndingsAnimal shelters are lled beyond capacity with homeless animals.

Many of these are former pets who were easily acquired but,

for one reason or another, didnt t into someones lifestyle.

Unwanted animals are often passed from home to irresponsiblehome as the novelty of having an animal wears thin at each

successive place. Many people experience little or no guilt when

turning an animal over to an overburdened humane society or

animal-control agency that is likely lled to capacity with other

abandoned animals. Many animals are simply abandoned on the

road or in the yard when the family moves away.

What You Can DoDont ever give an animal as a gift! If you have discussed the

idea with the prospective recipients and know that they have

the time, willingness, ability, and resources to proper ly care foran animal and make that serious commitment, consider offering

them a gi ft certicate from the local animal shelter.

If you attend a fair, ea market, or other event at which animals

are being given away, educate those who are responsible. If

people are offering free kit tens or puppies, for example, explain

the risks of giving animals to unknown passer sbysome people

sell dogs and cats to laboratories or dealers, and others abuse

neglect, or abandon them.

If a business is giving away animals as a promotion, complain

to sponsors, explaining what can happen to animals who arenot taken by caring, capable people. Get sponsors to save

lives by giving away stuffed toy animals instead. Contact loca

ofcials about introducing and passing more substantive animal-

protection laws and get involved with animal rights and welfare

groups that can provide educational materials and help stop

public animal giveaways.


6/243 Easy Steps to Teach Children Responsible Pet Owne

Pets are Forever

Preparation for their New Puppy:The next step before bringing

home a new puppy is to purchase supplies and set up a plan to

provide a stable rout ine. We sat down as a family and discussed

rst and foremost moms rules for the dog in the house. We

talked about things they would like to be able to do l ike let the

dog sleep in bed with them and established a time frame for

those desires to be implemented.

Everyone agreed that the puppy had to be house trained

and past the chewing phase before he could sleep free in the

bedroom or run loose in the house. We set other rules like not

getting on the furniture or being allowed to jump on us.

Once the rules were established we needed to make up a list

of supplies and purchase ever ything ahead of time. This was the

most exciting par t for the kids because they knew it was almost

time to get their new puppy!

Working on Training: The next step took place after bringing

the puppy home, teaching them obedience. Because we are a

big family I wanted to complete our dog training at home so

everyone could participate.

To begin we set training goals for ourselves by deciding how

far we wanted to go with our tr aining. For us it was enough for

our dogs to know some basic commands, listen to us when we

give direction and be outgoing with our company. Our trainerhelped us develop a plan that was t for our personality and

our lifestyle.

After establishing a plan, the kids and I practiced daily with our

new puppy and they grew to truly appreciate the ownership of

their new companion. Fast forward 10 years and obser ve my

16 year old daughter with her senior chihuahua today and you

will have not doubt that she truly understands how to care for

and love her doggies.

When youre ready to get that new puppy to grow with your

child remember, include them in every aspect of dog ownershipand youll be amazed at the bond youll watch develop!

Ask just about any household and theyll tell you the ultimate

completion to any family is a pet. For the majority that pet would

be a cute little puppy that can grow with their children. Its like

the trendy saying , a boy with his dog.

Thus it is important for children to learn responsible ownership,

beginning with selecting the puppy right up to training and beyond.

Teaching Kids Responsible Dog Ownership

Even though it was my dream to offer my children a dog to grow

with, that didnt change the fact that I wanted them to share inthe responsibility of their new friends care. After all thats a large

part of why most families desire to have a pet to begin with.

Helping Research on the Puppy: I am a firm believer in

understanding your dogs breed before you bring them home.

Dogs are bred for specic energies and temperaments and require

very different lifestyles.

I sat down with my children when the time came to pick their

puppy and pulled up the dogs they said they liked the most. I let

them inuence greatly which breeds we looked at because they

would be the primary provider. For my son he needed an activelarge dog to keep up with him. My youngest daughter needed

one that was timid and low energy.

We began by nding which breeds met the lifestyle and energy

levels of my children. Then we narrowed them down into groups of

dogs I was able to care for as well. My son settled on a pure bred

Golden Retriever. My youngest daughter selected a dachshund/

Chihuahua mix. My middle daughter ended up choosing a Basengi

mix and my oldest daughter wanted a pitbull terrier.

3 Easy Steps to Teach ChildrenResponsible Pet OwnershipBy Mikki Hogan

Source: earnestparenting.com



safety

et Grooming 101

Source: aspca.org


8/24



Every year approximately 4 million animals, the vast majority

of which are medically and behaviorally adoptable, are

euthanized. By spaying or neutering your pet you are

directly helping to reduce this number.

Due to the fact that it helps reduce the incidence of some ofthe most common types of cancers (breast, uterine, prostate

and testicular), your pet is likely to live a longer and healthier life

Spaying and neutering decreases the number of stray animals

which results in a decrease in animal bites (to both humans

and pets), car accidents, and destruction to property.

Spayed and neutered animals get along better with each

other and exhibit less aggression issues towards animals of

the same gender.

Spaying and neutering are straightforward surgeries andare performed under anesthesia. Like any surgical procedure

there is some risk but the overall incidence of complications

is extremely low.

The Anti-Cruelty Society Myth Busters:

Spaying or neutering my pet is just too expensive.

There are many clinics that provide spay neuter services at

reasonable prices. The cost of caring for a litter of puppies

or kittens far outweighs the cost of surgery as does the cost

of treating one of the many forms of cancer that spaying or

neutering helps prevent.

Spaying or neutering wil l make my pet fat.

Animals get fat due to the same reasons that people get fattoo

much food and not enough exercise. Providing your pet with

regular exercise and feeding them a diet that is appropriate

for their age, size, and energy level will prevent your pet from

becoming overweight.

I dont want my dog to feel like less of a man; its just cruel

to do that to a male dog or cat.

Unlike people, animals do not have any concept of their sexualidentity. Neutering a male will not cause any type of identity crisis

or result in him mourning the loss of his reproductive capability

What is cruel is contr ibut ing to the tragic overpopulation

problem.

Many well-intentioned pet owners still nd making the choice

to spay or neuter their pet a difcult one. This is largely due to

the many misconceptions associated with this very basic surgery.

However the reality is pets that are spayed or neutered typically

live much longer, healthier, and happier lives and are a lso helping

to solve the serious problem of pet overpopulation. However,

you may have a pet at home or have a friend with a dog or cat

that has not yet had this simple surgery. Here are some of the

reasons that spaying or neutering is one of the best things you

can do for your pet, yourself, and your community:

Spayed or neutered pets are typically better behaved, calmer,

and more affectionate than those that are not altered.

Male animals are less likely to mark their territory by urinating

or spraying and less likely to run away in an attempt to nd a

female. This does not, however, mean you should leave your

neutered animal outside unattended.

Spaying an animal eliminates their heat cycle and the

undesirable elements of a heat cycle such as bleeding, crying,

and nervous behaviors.

paying and Neutering Facts

Spaying And Neutering Facts

Pets are For

Source: anticruelty.org


10/24Puppy Mi

Pets are Forever

On top of that, puppies often arrive in pet stores and their new

homes with diseases or inrmities. These can include:

Giardia

Parvovirus

Distemper

Upper respiratory infections

Kennel cough

Pneumonia

Behavior Problems in Puppy Mill Pups?Sometimes. Fearful behavior and lack of socialization with humans

and other animals are typical of puppy mill dogs. Puppies born

in puppy mills are typically removed from their littermates and

mothers at just six weeks of age. The rst months of a puppys

life are a critical socialization period for puppies. Spending that

time with their mother and littermates helps prevent puppies

from developing problems like extreme shyness, aggression, fear

and anxiety.

How are Animals Treated at Puppy Mills?Puppy mills usually house dogs in overcrowded and unsanitary

conditions, without adequate veterinary care, food, water and

socialization. Puppy mill dogs do not get to experience treats,

toys, exercise or basic grooming. To minimize waste cleanup,

dogs are often kept in cages with wire ooring that injures their

paws and legsand it is not unusual for cages to be stacked up

in columns. Breeding dogs at mills might spend their entire lives

outdoors, exposed to the elements, or crammed inside lthy

structures where they never get the chance to feel the sun or

breathe fresh air.

What is a Puppy Mill?A puppy mill is a large-scale commercial dog breeding operation

where prot is given priority over the well-being of the dogs.

Unlike responsible breeders, who place the utmost importance

on producing the healthiest puppies possible, breeding at puppy

mills is performed without consideration of genetic quality. This

results in generations of dogs with unchecked hereditary defects.

Some puppy mill puppies are sold to pet shopsusually through

a broker, or middlemanand marketed as young as eight weeks

of age. The lineage records of puppy mill dogs are often falsied.

Other puppy mill puppies are sold directly to the public, including

over the Internet, through newspaper ads, and at swap meets and

ea markets.

Common Health Problems with Puppy Mill Dogs?Illness and disease are common in dogs from puppy mills. Because

puppy mill operators often fail to apply proper husbandry practices

that would remove sick dogs from their breeding pools, puppies

from puppy mills are prone to congenital and hereditar y conditions.

These can include:

Epilepsy

Heart disease

Kidney disease

Musculoskeletal disorders (hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, etc.)

Endocrine disorders (diabetes, hyperthyroidism)

Blood disorder s (anemia, Von Willebrand disease)

Deafness

Eye problems (cataracts, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy)

Respiratory disorders

Puppy Mills 101By Peter Scowen

Mange

Fleas

Ticks

Intestinal parasites

Heartworm

Chronic diarrhea


11/24


12/240 8 Major Changes in Pet Parenting H

Pets are Forever

4. Medical CareWe have gone the specia lty route and pets are being treated

better and living longer for it. Cardiologists to oncologists

behaviorists and dermatologists: Can you recall taking a pet toone of these specialists growing up? When would there ever be

a pet summer safety guide 20 years ago? Today, we write them

share them, and engage with them.

5. TrainingThe methods have improved, positive reinforcement is the

proven way to train pets, and thanks to social media, we hold

one another accountable in the way we treat animals. Humane

is the way to go; we know that pets have feelings and respond

better to positive reinforcement. No-pull harnesses, training

classes, and hiring behaviorists have ltered in to society and

we wag for them.

6. TravelMost people consider their pet to be part of the family and

many travelers usually take their pets with them when they

travel. Pet friendly has evolved into pet welcoming. We want our

family members with us. The pet parent evolution has become

a revolution, and pet travel is high atop that list.

7. Day Care & SafetyWhen we cant take our pets along, we enlist the services of dog

walkers, pet sitter s, pet daycare, and more. We want our familymembers to be watched over with safety ensured. We are also

taking safety measures to ensure our pets are harnessed, belted

and secured when inside a moving vehicle.

8. Pet BloggersAs a society, weve become more insular even though the rst

word in social media beckons otherwise. Weve grown inward

and the more we nest inside our abodes, we want someone to

curl up and take shelter with. Enter Fido, Fluffy etc. Animals are

a par t of the family. Even though the overall economic recovery

is taking longer than expected, annual revenue growth in pet

products and services is anticipated to continue at the rate of4.4 % through 2016. How many industries do you know that can

boast those truths? When the economy does improve, imagine

how much more money will be spent on pets. Why does this

matter? You, dear pet blogger and fellow animal writer are the

voice of the pets, by the pets, and for the pets.

From specialists to specialty food, some of the biggest changes in

the way we treat, view, and live with pets over the past 20 to 30

years have been in healthcare, pet products, safety, and training.

Growing up, who amongst us remember s taking the family dog on

summer vacations, walking the aisles of pet-oriented superstores to

purchase products or reading about canine couture at week-long

fashion events in big cities? Few amongst us can admit to engaging

in such pet fun years ago mostly because we, as a society, didnt

embrace such notions. Thankfuly, weve come a long way since then.

Here are 8 major changes in pet parent history that have evolved

over the past few decades:

1. FoodThe pet food industry is very competitive in terms of pet food

products. This competition results in the creation of excellent

products for pets, but buyers must still beware. Rule of thumb:

ip the product around and read the label on the back: Are these

ingredients you want your pet to eat? We dont mind doing the

homework, because after all: Our pets are a part of the family.

2. Pet Toys and TreatsThousands of pet items hit the marketplace ever y single year. Food-

dispensing treats like Kong, pooper scoopers and cute clean-up

bags, designer crates and bedding, even leashes and collars, these

are all new in the last 30 years.

3. LingoThe language of pet parenting has also evolved. Mutts are now

designer dogs, shelters have become adoption centers, a dog

coop is an indoor kennel, biscuits are handcrafted snacks , the dog

catcher is gone and replaced with canine code enforcement, and

well-behaved is now todays Canine Good Citizen.

8 Major Changes in Pet Parenting HistoryBy Carol Bryant

Source: blogpaws.com


13/24Issue No.18 www.bowandwow.com.phets are People. Just ask Pet Parents

Pets are For

Technology is driving people apar t, a world in which ever yone

has their nose buried in computers and smartphones, and

texting is an acceptable way to break off a relat ionship. Pets

who have not yet been identied as part of the smartphone

market, offer a pure connection.

Jill Johnson, a University of Water loo student who posted

online her Masters thesis titled Place of the Family Pet and

Attitudes about Pet Keeping, identied yet another factor : the

infantilization of modern culture. An overpowering attachment

to a pet has its childish side, especia lly in a world of car toon

animals and stuffed bears, Johnson wrote.

She also pointed out that many modern dog breeds have been

bred to be calm and co-operative features that give a person

more control over their pet than they may have over humans

Which is a good, and ironic, point: The minute a pet act

too human is unco-operative , disobedient, selsh, distant

unaffectionate is the minute it risks getting taken to the pound

or left on a back road in cottage country.

Today, pets are people. They are called fur kids, and their owners

are pet parents. Cats and dogs are treated as cherished family

members raised on the nest foods, celebrated on their birthdays,

included in the family Christmas-card photo, mourned when they

die, and buried in expensive crypts or cremated and returned to

their grieving owners in keepsake urns.

The humanization of pets is a boon for the farmers who can sell

human-consumption quality meats to a voracious market. Pet food

has been affected by the same health-and-wellness trends that have

inuenced human food, including claims of health and naturalness.

In 2001, Ipsos-Reid produced a survey on Canadian pet ownership

that identied the single largest segment of owners at 31% as pet

humanists. Mostly young, urban, childless couples and singles, pet

humanists adore their animal companions and believe in equality

between humans and animals. They treat their pets as importantfamily members and try to please them while providing the best

in pet care .

The pet humanists idea of animals as equals has been a long time

coming. Most of human history saw animals treated in the most

hideous ways, with vivisection a common practice. Animals were

viewed as soulless; when you skinned one alive, its cries were

considered an inanimate reex on a par with a wooden chair

creaking in complaint under the weight of a heavy person. Animals

were only understood in relation to their usefulness to humans.

It was that other Darwin, rst name Charles, who inadvertentlyhelped get the animal-rights ball rolling when he published On the

Origin of Species. His theory on evolution made people question

their place in the natural world, and hence their assumptions about

their super iority.

It wasnt until the 1970s, though, that animal rights became a moral

concern for the broader culture . The 1975 bookAnimal Liberation,

by the Australian philosopher Peter Singer, became the bible of a

movement that sought to stop the abuse of animals in farming, in

research and in the clothing industry. Advocates pushed for animals

to have legal rights, an evolut ion that is near ing its culmination in

the Great Ape Project , a movement to get the United Nations to

adopt a Declaration of the Rights of Great Apes and give basic

rights to gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans and bonobos.

The animal-rights movement has now gone from a fringe element to

a powerful force in mainstream culture. Vegetarianism and veganism

are growing. Pet humanism is an obvious offshoot of this evolution,

but other factors may be involved.

Pets are people. Just ask pet parentsBy Peter Scowen

Source: theglobeandmail.com


14/242 Vitamins and Minerals in Your Furbaby

Pets are Forever

Vitamins

Vitamins are organic substances that your pets body needs in

certain quantities to be able to function properly. Vitamins areclassied as either fat soluble or water soluble. Fat soluble vitamins

are stored in your furbabys fat cells called lipocytes. Water soluble

vitamins are not stored in the body in large amounts. Thus, in

general, vitamin over-supplementation is much more dangerous

in fat soluble vitamins than in water soluble vitamins.

Vitamin A

A fat soluble vitamin, Vitamin A is impor tant for your pets bone

and teeth formation, vision, coat, skin, eyesight and mucous

membranes. Vitamin A deciencies have been known to cause

eye problems, poor coat and skin quality, poor growth and a

reduced ability to ward off infections. Too much Vitamin A, on

the other hand, can cause your pet to have muscle weakness and

bone problems. Signs of Vitamin A toxicity also include decreased

appetite, weight loss, limping, stiffness and constipat ion.

The B Vitamins

Vitamin B-1, also known as thiamine, is an essential vitamin for

your furbabys overall health. Thiamine has also been found to

be a natural ea repellent in dogs and helps regulate energy and

carbohydrate metabolism in cats. Thiamine deciency can cause

your dog to be unsteady on his legs, have spastic hind legs, seizures,

vomit and lose his appetite. In some cases, thiamine deciency

can be fatal. Thiamine deciency can result if your dog eats a lotof raw sh or, like many vitamin deciencies, it can be caused by

feeding your dog a low-quality or nutritionally incomplete diet.

If your dog is found to have a thiamine deciency, this condition

can most often be completely cured by an injection of thiamine

administered by your vet.

Thiamine deciency in cats can cause neurological impairments

including altered reexes and convulsive seizures, heart rate

disorders, and pathological changes in the central ner vous system

Vitamin B-3, also called niacin, primarily helps your pets enzymes

work properly. Enzymes are proteins produced by your dogs

cells to help trigger and regulate important chemical activities in

your pets system.

A lack of niacin can cause your pet to have a condition referred to

as black tongue in which he will have inamed lips and gums, a

lack of appetite and bloody diarrhea. If the condition is not treated

death can result. Niacin has appeared to be helpful in controlling

seizures, reducing cholesterol and regulating central nervous

system functions. Too much niacin can cause skin irr itations, liver

damage and stomach ulcers.

Vitamins and Mineralsin Your Furbabys Diet

There is so much variety that it makes it hard to know which of these products are appropriate for your pets, especially because the

food you are feeding your dog or cat will also contain levels of v itamins and minerals. While you need to consult with your veter inarian

before giving your furbaby any supplementation because there are serious dangers associated with both vitamin and mineral over-

supplementation as well as vitamin and mineral deciencies, you also need to familiarize yourself with the diverse and essential roles

vitamins and minerals play in keeping your pet healthy from head to tail.


15/24Issue No.18 www.bowandwow.com.phVitamins and Minerals in Your Furbabys Diet

Pets are For

Vitamin B-5, also called pantothenic acid, is essential for supporting

your pets immune system and adrenal functions. Pantothenic acid

also helps your pets system convert proteins, carbohydrates and

fats into usable energy. Adequate amounts of pantothenic acid

are necessary to help your pet ght infections, inammations,

asthma and allergies. Pets with a lack of pantothenic acid can

suffer from abnormal hair loss and stomach upset. Allergies, skin

irritations and skin infections are also considered pantothenic acid

deciency symptoms.

Vitamin D

This fat soluble vitamin, is essential for regulating the bloodstreams

calcium and phosphorous levels, bone formation and proper

muscle and ner ve function. Vitamin D deciency can cause r ickets,

a bone disorder with symptoms such as bowed legs, swollen joints

and weakness. Too much Vitamin D can create inappropriate

amounts of calcium to be stored within your pets heart and

other muscles. High doses of Vitamin D can also cause vomiting,

diarrhea, hemorrhaging, excessive thirst, increased urination,

lethargy, limping and bone pain.

Vitamin K

This fat soluble vitamin is vital for normal blood functions such

as clotting. Lack of Vitamin K can cause clotting problems and

lead to hemorrhaging.

Minerals

Minerals are natural substances that play essential roles in helping

your pets system function properly. Your furbabys body does not

make minerals on its own. Instead, your pet must obtain minerals

from food and water which contain dissolved minerals.

Calcium and Phosphorus

Your pet needs a proper amount and balance of calcium and

phosphorous in his body. Calcium and phosphorous are necessary

for sound bones and teeth. Phosphorous is needed for the body to

produce its own energy, and calcium is required for blood clotting

and for heart, nerve and muscle functions. Generally dogs do not

suffer from phosphorous deciencies, but calcium deciency is seen

in some dogs. Cats, however would suffer from anemia, difculty in

locomotion and metabolic acidosis from phosphorous deciency.

Calcium deciencies can cause lameness, spasms, anxiety, heart

palpitations, eczema, decreased bone density, osteoporosis, gumerosion, seizures, hemorrhages, high blood pressure, arthritis, bone

fractures and respiratory problems. In pregnant and nursing pets,

calcium deciencies have been implicated in the development of

eclampsia. Calcium deciencies can be brought about by high-meat

diets because meats contain an unbalanced amount of phosphorous.

Excess levels of calcium and phosphorous can lead to growth

problems in your pet. In addition, inappropriately high levels of

phosphorous and calcium can inhibit your dogs ability to absorb

manganese.

Iron

Iron plays an essential role in helping your pets system functio

properly. Iron is necessary for red blood creation, enzym

functioning and energy and immune system functioning. Iro

deciency symptoms include anemia, lack of energy, diarrhea, pa

gums and hair loss. Excess levels of iron can damage your pet

hear t, liver, stomach and intestinal lining.

MagnesiumMagnesium is an essential component used for proper enzym

function and heart rate and healthy bones, muscles and nervou

system. Magnesium also helps rid the body of lead and other heav

metals. Magnesium deciency symptoms irregular heart rate

high blood pressure, seizures, bone pain, ner vousness, irritabilit

depression and muscle spasms. Inappropriately high levels o

magnesium can interfere with your dogs ability to absorb calcium

Manganese

Manganese is necessary for enzyme uti l ization, norma

reproduction, milk production in nursing dogs and cats, fat an

protein assimilation, blood sugar regulation, healthy nerves animmune systems, and normal functioning of the pituitary glan

(the gland that regulates all of the other glands). It is also neede

for proper bone and cartilage growth. Manganese is also neede

for utilization of thiamine and Vitamin E. Manganese deciency ca

cause retarded growth and development as well as reproductio

problems for dogs, meanwhile there are no studies of decienc

in cats. Manganese deciencies have also been repor ted to impac

normal fat metabolism.

Potassium and Sodium

Potassium and sodium must be kept in balance for your pet to

function properly. Potassium is needed for regulating body ui

and for metabolic, muscle and nerve functions. It also though

that potassium can help prevent strokes. Sodium is important fo

regulating body uids. Symptoms of potassium deciency includ

muscle weakness, paralysis, heart problems including irregula

heart rate, kidney lesions, retarded growth and dehydration

Some diuretics and heart medications can diminish your pet

potassium levels. Excess potassium levels in your pet tend no

to be a problem as long as your pet has healthy funct ionin

kidneys. Symptoms of sodium deciency include fatigue, dr

skin, hair loss and slowed growth. Heat exhaustion can cause

sodium deciency. Too much sodium will cause your pet to be

excessively thir sty.

Selenium

Small amounts of selenium are considered an antioxidant for dog

that helps slow aging and regulates your pets blood sugar. Selenium

deciency appears linked to heart disease, the developmen

of tumors, immune deciencies, weakness, skin problems, slow

growth and reduced fertility. Excess amounts of selenium ca

cause cardiovascular collapse, anemia, hair loss, limping and live

disease.

Source: dogspired.com and feednfarm.com


16/244

The smallest and most popular of the schnauzers, the miniatureschnauzer was developed in the late 1800s as a small farm dog

and ratter in Germany. In fact, the miniature schnauzer is the only

terrier not originating from European isle stock. It was derived

from crossing the standard schnauzer with the affenpinscher

(and possibly poodle). All the schnauzers get their name from

one individual dog named Schnauzer, who was exhibited around

1879 an apt name, since schnauzer means small beard. The

miniature schnauzer was exhibited as a breed distinct from the

standard schnauzer by 1899 in Germany, although it wasnt unti

1933 that the AKC divided the standard and miniature into

separate breeds. The miniature schnauzer came to America long

after its standard and giant counterparts, but in the years afterWorld War II, it far outpaced them in popular ity, eventually ris ing

to become the third-most popular breed in America at one time

It remains as a perennial favorite, a smart-looking and alert-acting

family pet and competitive show dog.

Miniature Schn

The miniature schnauzer is a robust, sturdily built terrier of nearlysquare proport ion. It was developed as a ratter and is quick and

tough. Its gait displays good reach and drive . Its coat is double ,

with a close undercoat, and hard, wiry, outer coat which is longer

on the legs, muzzle and eyebrows. Its facial furnishings add to its

keen expression.

The miniature schnauzer deserves its place as one of the most

popular terrier pets. It is playful, inquisitive, alert, spunky and

companionable. It is a well-mannered house dog that also enjoys

being in the middle of activities. It is less domineering than the

larger schnauzers and less dog-aggressive than most terriers. It

is also better with other animals than most terriers, although itwill gladly give chase. It is clever and can be stubborn, but it is

generally biddable. It enjoys children. Some may bark a lot.

This energetic breed can have its exercise requirements met

with a moderate walk on leash or a good game in the yard.

Even though it can physically survive living outdoors in warm

to temperate climates, it emotionally needs to share its life with

its family inside the home. Its wire coat needs combing once or

twice weekly, plus scissoring and shaping every couple of months.

miniature schnauzer

Source: animal.discovery.com

Breed Spotlight

RATING OF CHARACTERISTICS

Energy level

Exercise needs

Playfullness

Affection toward its owner

Friendliness with other dogs

Friendliness towar strangers

Ease of training

Watch ability

Protection ability

Need for grooming

Cold tolerance

Heat tolerance


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Q: Why do adoption groups need fosterhomes?

A.There are many reasons a dog or cat might need foster care.

Some of the most common include:

A rescue group doesnt have a physical shelter and depends

on foster homes to care for pets until suitable homes are found.

A puppy or kitten is too young to be adopted and needs

a safe place to stay until he or she is old enough to go to

a forever home.

A dog or cat is recovering from surgery, illness or injury and

needs a safe place to recuperate.

A dog or cat is showing signs of stress such as pacing or

hiding in the shelter.

A dog or cat has not lived in a home before or has not had

much contact with people and needs to be socialized.

The shelter is running out of room for adoptable pets.

Q: Why should I foster a dog?

A. Fostering a dog or cat is one of the most rewarding

experiences you can have (other than adopting, of course). By

taking an animal in need temporar ily into your home you are :

Freeing up a spot so the shelter or rescue can take in

another dog or cat.

Giving your foster furbaby the time he needs to be ready

for adoption.

Helping the shelter or rescue learn more about the dog or

cat so he can end up in the best home possible.

Socializing the pet to a home environment and possibly

getting him used to being around other pets and different

types of people.

Healthy Howlid

Q: Why Adopt a Dog from a Shelter?

A1.You Can Help Save Lives.

One of the most rewarding aspects of adopting a shelter anim

is the simple fact that youre saving a life and giving a deservin

animal a new home. It feels great to help an animal in need.

A2. Shelter Dogs Make Great Pets

Many pets end up in shelters because of circumstances beyon

their control. They were victims of a death in the family, illnes

or animal cruelty.

Most shelter dogs available for adoption are healthy, affectionat

animals.

Ask The Vet

By : Ma. Mylene L. Maranan, DVM

Bow & Wow resident veterinarian

Ask the et

Send in your Ask The Vet questions to: [email protected]


20/248 2014 Pet Trends Fo

Made in the USAYes, people have been concerned about this for a

while but after so many scares in 2013 and recalls of

Chinese made pet jerky, USA made products are a

MUST HAVE item for our pets.

Freeze Dried Nutrition

The all natural market is booming and one of the fastestgrowing food and treat segments is freeze dried. And

cats, are getting treated now more than ever. Freeze

dried food offers many of the nutritional benets of

a raw food diet, but with less mess and less occasion

for a salmonella scare.

The Power of ChiaChia seeds are popping up in pet treats and offer so

many benets: cardiovascular health, joint function

support, digestion, detox, etc.

Get Out There And Get ActiveThis year, pets will be on the move with their pet

parents. As an exercise partner to stay in shape,

providing service to the community and part of daily

activities. Working out? Bring your dog! Its more fun

and good for both of you. Work out facilities for pet

and parents will be making their way across the country.

Fusion Dog Treats

While were off enjoying mindblowing appetizersin which Italian delicacies are fused with Chinese

traditions our dogs are left to nosh on the same old

treats. So in 2014 why not bring them fusion treats of

their own straight from Flavortown. Like say... winner,

winner, wasabi-bbq chicken dinner?

Lap Of LuxuryForget those bean bag-esque dog beds and plastic feeding

bowls. They were so, well, the past decade. Its about to be

2014. Luxury loungers, mini versions of full-size couches

made with top of the line fabrics and designed for your dog

comfort, could be the perfect addition to your living space

creating a sense of sophistication. And dont forget the hi-

tech pet feeder. Itll keep your dog hydrated while youre the

one running important errands and release kibble if thoseerrands happen to take longer than expected.

Send Off VideosThanks to the YouTube generation you can now cinematically

keep your dogs memory alive, long after saying good bye

2014 will likely see more pet owners hiring professiona

video editors to collage old photos, splice in home video

clips, and professionally shoot nal segments of their life

together with their dog, pulling it all together with a three

minute, heart-wrenching song.

Pet Training AppsStill having trouble getting your dog to sit? Well, the answe

is in your pocket. Just take out your phone and download

an app that will walk you through the training process. 2014

will be the year when pet training apps blow up. Theyll have

an answer for all of those unexpected issues, like say when

youre at the dog park and your dog just wont stop humping

the other dogs. We expect theyll also feature emergency

information such as how to administer rst aid.

Destination Pet VacationWhats a family vacation if everyone cant attend? Were

anticipating the number of pet-friendly vacations booked

to increase in 2014. With mom-and-pop bed and breakfast

welcoming pets and hotel chains reconsidering their policies

just imagine the possibilities for a fun time away.

Pets are Forever

Source: petcarerx.com and pack-mom.com

2014 Pet Trends ForecastBy Jenn Fadal and Ellen Thompson

The human-animal bond has never been stronger and people want only the best for their pets. They are savvy pet parents who are reading

pet food labels closely, demand to know where products are made, are active with their pets and of course want their pet to look sharp

when they are on a walk. Pet lovers enjoy making sure their furbaby has the best of the best and the latest products out there. Find out wha

the newest trends are that we think will be gaining ground in 2014. So, what pet trends should we expect to see this year?



Diagnosis of Thyroid Problems in CatsOnce youve described the symptoms to your veterinarian, they ma

decide a blood test is in order. A blood test is the most common and

effective method of diagnoses for thyroid problems in cats.

The blood test, called T4, will examine thyroid hormone levels in

your cats body. If hyperthyroidism is present, this test will usually be

conclusive. In some cases, the T4 test wont be enough for a rm

diagnosis, so your vet may take more blood to do a test called T4

Free, which looks further for indications of hyperthyroidism.

Because hyperthyroidism is most commonly found in older cats, it

possible and even likely that hyperthyroid is not the only ailment a

play. Other conditions geriatric cats commonly encounter can share

symptoms with hyperthyroidism, like diabetes and kidney failure. T4

is the best method to determine or rule out an overactive thyroid.

Treatment of Thyroid Problems In CatsHyperthyroid cats can be treated with antithyroid drugs. The mos

common antithyroid drug for cats is Methimazole. The pill is typically

administered once or twice a day. It can be (literally) a bitter pill to

swallow, so it may be necessary for pet parents to hide the pill inside

treats or food.

Removal of the thyroid through surgery is also an option. Surgery is, o

course, invasive, and can be difcult for an older cat who may already

be suffering from other health problems. However, the benets o

surgery do sometimes outweigh the stress of daily pill administration

and regular blood checks.

Diet after DiagnosisA high protein, low carbohydrate diet is recommended for all cats of a

stages of wellness. This balance of more protein/fewer carbs become

even more important when a cat is diagnosed with hyperthyroidism

Discuss diet changes with your veterinarian.

What About Hypothyroidism?This condition is highly unlikely to afict cats, but it does happen

occasionally. In humans and dogs, hypothyroidism is often inherited

In cats, however, the condition will usually only occur if damage ha

been done to the thyroid gland, like during surgery, for example

Hypothyroidism can also occur as a result of hyperthyroid treatmen

through the use of radioactive iodine.

Hypothyroidism in cats will present with weight gain, listlessness, and

a dull and dry coat. However, unless the aforementioned trauma

has affected your cat, these symptoms are likely pointing to anothe

condition.

Hyperthyroidism is an ailment more common in cats than in dogs.

It can cause major health problems for your cat if left undiagnosed

and untreated. Learn the causes of thyroid problems in cats and the

options available.

Thyroid problems in cats stem from either an over abundance or a

deciency of thyroid hormones. The prior -- hyperthyroidism -- is by

far the more common feline thyroid condition, and its the condition

this article will focus on. Learn about why a cats body relies on the

thyroid, signs that may indicate a thyroid problem, and what treatment

might look like if your cat is diagnosed with hyperthyroidism.

What is Thyroid?The thyroid a little gland, shaped a bit like a bowtie, that lives in the

neck of every cat. The thyroid secretes two hormones called thyroxine

and triodothyronine, which help regulate impor tant bodily functions

like metabolism and organ functions.

What is Hyperthyroidism in Cats?Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid secretes too much

thyroxine. The excessive concentration of hormones moving around

in the bloodstream can cause an overactive metabolism, which can

strain other organs and have a ripple effect of serious health problems

including kidney and heart failure.

Can all Cats Develop Hyperthyroidism?Its estimated that 2 in 100 cats will develop the condition, but usually

in later life. Hyperthyroidism is most common in cats who are 10

years or older.

Common Signs of Thyroid Problems Weight loss, even though theyre eating the same amount of food.

Increase in appetite, but no apparent weight gain.

Behavior changes such as increased friskiness and vocalization.

Increases in the amount of water consumed, as well as increased

urination.

Thyroid Problems in Cats

Pets are For

Thyroid Problems in CatsBy Anthony Bennie

Source: animalanddiscovery.com


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Source: newsfeed.time.com

Pets are Forever

If you own a cat, you probably identify as something like its mother,

albeit a human version, who feeds it, entertains it, and licks its fur

to keep it clean. Unfortunately, your cat sees your pet-owner

relationship much differently, according to the new book Cat Sense

by English biologist Dr. John Bradshaw. It actually thinks youre a

larger, non-hostile cat.

Bradshaw, who has been studying the behavior of domesticated

animals for over 30 years, reveals some fascinating explanations for

why cats act the way they do around humans. For one, since cats

have never been bred for a specic function other than looking nice,

theyre ultimately less domesticated than the dog breeds humans

have designed for chasing down game and helping around the

house. Given that 85% of cats breed with feral tomcats, according

to the book, the species has also stayed relatively wild. The animals

interactions with their owners are driven less by learned behavior

than by pure instinct.

When a cat kneads your body or the surface of a bed, its a behavior

thats meant for its mothers belly, a message to keep milk owing

Rubbing up against a human leg or hand is a way of treating you as

another cat, the clearest way cats show their affection for us, Bradshaw

explains. Leaving dead rats around the house isnt a way of feeding

their owners, but rather, the cats want a safe place to eat their kill.

When they actually take a bite of the victim, they realize their normal

human-delivered cat food tastes way better. And if youve ever seen

a rat in any major city, this should be obvious.

So next time you call your cat your baby or chide it for being annoying,

just rememberit thinks of you as a fairly pleasant roommate that

just happens to be freakishly large for reasons it cant comprehend.

Your Cat Thinks You Are a Giant CatBy Kyle Chayka

Your Cat Thinks You are a Giant Ca


24/24

bow & wow times issue no. 18 - pets are forever

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