northwest pet magazine

JANUARY 2011 $ 2 . 9 9

premiere issuenew year’s resolutionspet health in the northwestdiscover equine therapy

SPOKANE | COEUR D’ALENE | SPOKANE VALLEY | LIBERTY LAKE

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MAGAZINE

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4 northwest pet magazine

8 Editor Letter 10 Community Spotlight

12 Sleepy Time

14 Trainers Corner Diamonds in the Ruff

13 Pets & Family Welcome Home Puppy

16 New Year’s Resolutions Make 2011 the best yet

21 Pet Spotlight Chinchilla

22 Pet Advice Winter Grooming

24 Pet Health in the Northwest 27 Sweet Treats

24 Look! I’m Famous... Local Pets

30 Pets with Purpose Equine Therapy

What’s Inside

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© 2011 Northwest Pet Magazine

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PUBLISHERZOLT Publishing

EDITOREmily Olson

CREATIVE DIRECTORLaura Olson

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVESEmily Olson | Laura Olson

EDITORIAL INQUIRESEmily Olson

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSEmily Olson | Laura Olson | Stephanie Waltz

PHOTOGRAPHYLaura Olson

WEB DESIGNERLaura Olson

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED BY:Laura Olson | lauraolsonphoto.com

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Northwest Pet Magazine is published monthly by ZOLT Publishing, Inc.

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northwest pet magazine

2011New Beginnings and a New Year

With 2011 now upon us, January marks the beginning of so many things. It is now that we decree our New Year’s Resolutions, hang our crisp, new calendars, bear down for the coldest month of winter, and for those of us over here at Northwest Pet Magazine, launch a new publication! Late in 2010, we set out to provide our community with the fi rst full size, glossy, monthly pet magazine. We stacked it full of useful editorial and glammed it up with gorgeous imagery. We made it our mission to fi nd and highlight exceptionally talented pet professionals in our community. We solicited feedback and advice from our resident experts and hand-selected exciting products that can be viewed, tested and purchased right here at local pet supply stores. We all know that with great challenges comes the opportunity for great accomplishments and we intend to reach for the stars in our endeavor. It is our goal to become your go-to source for pet related information and to connect you with pet professionals, events, enterprise and of course other pet owners.

Because we have chosen to focus our publication on bringing you hyper-local information, we’ve dedicated a section of our magazine to feature our invaluable rescues and shelters. Alternating between the diff erent shelters in our area, we will be spotlighting a long-term rescue pet each month. Harsh winters can make it almost impossible for an abandoned pet to fi nd their way into a new home without the help of our dedicated rescues. So, if you are looking to expand your brood, be sure to check out this month’s featured pet, Johnny, on p.5.

Thanks for reading our exciting launch issue and from all of us at Northwest Pet Magazine…Happy New Year!

Emily OlsonEditor

We’ve opted to provide you with not only educational information but many fun features as well, including a Pet Spotlight (this month read up on owning a Chinchilla p.21), Pet Recipes (p.27) and learn some hilarious fun pet facts (p.13). Our Activity Guide (p. 10) let’s you check out upcoming events. My personal favorite this month is the K9 Keg Pull in Sandpoint, ID. This event dedicates the $5 entry fee to the local humane society and aff ords you the chance to watch even the littlest Chihuahua transform into a big pull dog!

As we take our fi rst step into the New Year and set out to provide you with the most relevant information, we would love to hear from you. Visit our website at www.NorthwestPetMagazine.com to submit Pet Advice questions, upload pet photos for our Look! I’m Famous page, suggest events for the upcoming issues and request a subscription to receive Northwest Pet Magazine at your home or offi ce.

www.northwestpetmagazine.com 9

K-9 Keg Pull • January 1610 a.m.-noon, Eichardt’s Pub 212 Cedar St Sandpoint, IdahoPossibly the most endearing event you’ll ever att end. Dogs of all shapes and sizes sprint for glory down a snow-packed course pulling appropriately sized “kegs” – for a Chihuahua, that’s a beer can, while mighty rott s or shepherds pull full-size kegs. Dogs race against the clock while their owners urge them on and spectators contribute a cacophony of cheers. The $5 entry fee goes straight to the local animal shelter. Bring your own dog to race (just get there early) or merely enjoy the spectacle; you’ll love it.

Skijoring • January 1510 a.m. - 4 p.m., Bonner County FairgroundsMountain Horse Adventures host this event as skiers try their luck as they are pulled by horses at a high speed through a course that includes jumps and gates a 600-ft . track. Be part of this fi rst-year event! Register at the Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce, Third and Main, or call 208-263-8768 for more informati on.

Photograph by Kaila Angello

Annual Sled Dog Races• February 5-6U.S.F.S Airport, Priest LakeFor over thirty-fi ve years the US Pacifi c Coast Championship Sled Dog Race has been held at Priest Lake. Each year 75 to 100 teams from around the country and as far away as Alaska and Canada gather on the west side of the lake for the competi ti on. Mushers come from all over the west to parti cipate in the Priest Lake Race. 509-447-5744 or htt p://inlandempiresleddogassociati on.com

Wrangler Professional Bull Riding Classic• January 14-15 8p.m., Spokane ArenaThe 2011 Professional Bull Riders season comes to Spokane Friday, January 14th and Saturday, January 15th at 8:00 p.m. at the Spokane Arena. Tickets can be purchased through www.TicketsWest.com, by telephone at (509) 325-7328 or at the Spokane Arena box offi ce Monday-Friday located at 720 W. Mallon Ave in Spokane.Ticket prices are $10, $20, and $30, doors open 1 hour prior to show ti me.


northwest pet magazine | Activity Guide


EZY DOG www.ezydog.com

Built with strength, comfort and durability in mind, Ezy Dog has crafted a unique line of dog products which supply active dog enthusiasts with innovative, high quality accessories. Located in Sandpoint, Idaho, Ezy Dog products can be found in many local pet supply stores. For more information about Ezy Dog visit their website at www.EzyDog.com

High Bridge Dog ParkBetween Riverside Ave, A Street, and Government Way

SpokAnimal C.A.R.E. Spokane, WA

Central Bark Dog ParkCorner of Atlas & Nez Perce drive

Coeur D’Alene Parks Foundation DP Coeur D’Alene, ID

Patricia Simonet Laughing Dog ParkOff I-90 exit 299 Gateway Park

SCRAPS Spokane County, WA

We are thrilled to inform you that High Bridge Park has officially been approved to become the first off-leash dog park in Spokane. High Bridge Dog Park’s creation comes as the result of collaboration between SpokAnimal C.A.R.E., the Spokane Parks and Recreation Department, Spokane Parks Foundation and countless volunteers. With the announcement coming early in December, plans immediately went

underway to break ground on the initial phase, fencing the perimeter, after receiving a $50,000 donation, generously given by a single donor. To help High Bridge Dog Park flourish and grow, including incorporating bathroom facilities, agility course equipment and hiking trails donations are being solicited on an ongoing basis. Let’s all pitch in and do what we can to make our trinity of dog parks as accessible and family friendly as possible. To make a donation to your dog park please contact the following organizations.

Where the wild things are...by Emily Olson

Local Off-Leash Parks:Locally Produced!

northwest pet magazine | Community Spotlight


northwest pet magazine | Sleepy-timenorthwest pet magazine | Sleepy-time

CCreate a space for your beloved pet with comfy pet beds in any size and style. To fi nd local, quality beds to suit your pets need and go with your decor, check out these great local options.

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Pawpular Pet Companions21950 E. Country Vista Drive #100, Liberty LakeDog Town

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Pampurred Pet920 N Spokane St, Post Falls

Good Dog3115 N Government Way, CDA


welcome home

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5 tips for a smooth transition

Be prepared with food, collar, leash, toys, treats and bedding before picking up your new additi on. This also means puppy proofi ng your home... pick-up those expensive shoes! Puppies like to chew, aft erall they are teething.

A slow introducti on to a new home helps reduce stress levels. If possible have children and other animals in the home be calm... this will give your pup the chance to greet them once they are comfortable.

Sleeping arrangements: Chances are this is the fi rst ti me your puppy has been away from his litt ermates. It is very normal for a puppy to whine or cry, especially at night, for a day or two. Be pati ent! This will pass as the puppy bonds to you and his new environment.

Pott y training 101: Before bringing your new pup home consider what method of pott y training you are going to use. Are you going to crate train, paper train, etc and plan accordingly.

Start socializing and training now rather than later. Think about the future as well, some behaviors that seem cute now will not be when you’re dealing with a full grown dog.

PUPPY...

Fun FactsDOGS:

• Dogs only sweat from the bottoms of their feet, the only way they can discharge heat is by panting.• Contrary to popular belief, dogs aren’t color blind; they can see shades of blue, yellow, green and gray.• Dogs have about 100 diff erent facial expressions, most of them made with the ears.• Dogs do not have an appendix.

CATS:

• Cats have fi ve toes on each front paw, but only four toes on each back paw.• A pack of kittens is called a kindle, while a pack of adult cats is called a clowder.• Th e nose pad of each cat has ridges in a unique pattern not unlike a person's fi ngerprints.• A cat's jaws cannot move sideways.

EXOTIC PETS:

• A bird's heart beats 400 times per minute while they are resting.• Many hamsters only blink one eye at a time.• Iguanas are able to hold their breath for up to 30 minutes.• A goldfi sh can live up to 40 years.

Anyone that’s had the pleasure of speaking with Carol Byrnes about the nuance of dog training or the brilliance of a dog’s mind understands fi rsthand that she is in a class of her own. Equipped with a sharp mind, a caring and

compassionate presence, and more hands on experience than most of us have in our careers; Carol approaches her subject matt er with clarity and deliberati on. Carol and her husband Dana have taught positi ve-based training for over 30 years. If helping families live more harmoniously with their pets wasn’t enough, Carol has also dedicated her ti me and experti se to a variety of community projects. Providing humane educati on visits to classrooms, performing certi fi ed evaluati ons for the Delta Society and fi lling the role of Director of Humane Educati on for SpokAnimal C.A.R.E. are benchmarks which speak to Carol’s dedicati on.

I spoke with Carol about how she has carved out her niche in the world of dog training and what methods she’s employed to achieve such remarkable results with all of her canine pupils.

the next day you would be searching out an opportunity to get that reward again…dog’s are the same way, they will seek out ways to receive the reward more quickly than ways to avoid a punishment.

NW PET: What moti vates the behavior of our canine companions?

CB: Dogs are moti vated in the same way we are. When you drive to a place, you chose your route based on a number of criteria; lights that change quickly, roads with less traffi c, but the desired reward is to create as positi ve of an experience as we can. Dogs are the same way. A dog learns that the things they want: food, shelter, love and att enti on, can all be earned through the choices they make. Showing them the path which gives them those rewards moti vates them more profoundly than when they try to learn what to do to avoid being punished.

For more informati on, contact Carol Byrnes at Diamonds in the Ruff located at 2925 N Monroe Spokane, WA (509) 328-6959www.diamondsintheruff .com

NW PET: Tell me a litt le about your philosophy when it comes to training.

CB: Catch them doing it right. Don’t set them up to fail. Teach your dog an alternati ve to a bad behavior. You don’t have to punish them, you don’t have to react to the bad behavior but rather replace it with an acti on you would like to see instead. For example, if you have a dog that jumps to greet you, instead of responding puniti vely to the jumping, yelling “no!”, “down”, or “off ” a bett er choice is to encourage the dog to sit when he greets you and reward that behavior. Without punishment, you have replaced the negati ve behavior with a positi ve behavior. NW PET: How does positi ve only training work?

CB: Puniti ve vs. positi ve training can be equated to getti ng a ti cket…if you just got a ti cket for speeding yesterday then you would feel very uncomfortable having an offi cer behind you or next to you at the light the next day; instead, imagine you got a $100 reward for driving well from an offi cer yesterday? If you saw a police offi cer

Diamonds in the Ruff | Carol Byrnes

Trainer in the Spot l ight


northwest pet magazine | Trainers Spotlight

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As we turn the page on another calendar year there is no bett er ti me

to applaud last year’s accom-plishments and pinpoint the goals that sti ll remain on our “new year’s resoluti on” list. They say that every journey begins with a single step…and here at Northwest Pet Magazine, we’ve taken the guess work out of 5 of the most common pet related resoluti ons. We’ve identi -fi ed the most eff ecti ve and straight forward ways to get started.

If every year you’ve utt ered the words, “I’m going to walk the dog everyday” than this is the arti cle for you. When our resoluti ons are aimed at helping our pets become happier and healthier, we in turn make their lives richer and fuller! Read on to get some ideas of how to help your pet make 2011 their best year yet!

17


Training

There may be no greater resoluti on you could set than that of training. The act of teaching your pet a new skill, of working on perfecti ng their existi ng training, or of recti fying a bad behavior is the best way to keep the whole family involved in this New Year’s Resoluti on. To begin it is benefi cial to set an identi fi able goal. If we can’t identi fy what it is we want our pet to do, how will they ever be able to accomplish it? Ask yourself this simple questi on, “Do I want to eradicate a bad behavior or insti tute a new good behavior?” Once you’ve decided what your moti vati on is, you can begin to visualize the steps you’ll need to take to teach your pet the new behavior. Linear thinking and knowing which step comes fi rst is imperati ve for success. If tackling your pet’s training on your own overwhelms you, don’t worry…there is no harm in soliciti ng help from an expert. With so many talented trainers and behavioral therapists in our area you will have all the help you could need. As you begin your training keep in mind that Rome wasn’t built in a day. Your pet will need your consistency and pati ence in order to achieve success.

Nutriti on

One of the most important responsibiliti es of pet ownership is creati ng healthy routi nes for your pet. There are a couple of key concepts to keep in mind when choosing a nutriti on plan for your pet. Each species has diff erent needs and preferences.

Next ti me you look at your cat sleeping in the sun, think ti ger. Pound for pound, cats need twice the protein humans and dogs do. The building blocks of good cat nutriti on can be summarized in one word: Meat. In the wild, cats consume about one-third of their calories from fats.

When we consider what our faithful family dog needs we must always keep in mind that dogs love many of the same foods we do. However just because our dog may love something it doesn’t mean he should have it. If you look upon your precious pooch as a hairy litt le human, it’s ti me to think again. Although your canine companion needs protein and good fats, he may need far fewer carbohydrates than you think. Animal protein from meat and fi sh off er our dogs the balanced protein they need. Unlike cats, dogs also eat many vegetables as well.

During the winter, most horses will undergo a change in their nutriti onal needs. Cold weather dramati cally alters the amount of calories a horse needs to consume. In the past corn was incorporated into a winter diet to increase body temperature; however, we now know that a horse’s body temperature is more directly aff ected by engaging the hindgut through the fermentati on of forage, such as hay or grass.

Exercise

We all know that proper diet combined with regular exercise creates a healthful life but what does that mean for our pets? When creati ng an exercise program for your pet there are some key things to keep in mind.

Keep it simple: The more convenient your pet’s exercise plan is for your lifestyle, the more likely you will execute the plan. Choose an easy acti vity as the foundati on for your pet’s exercise program; a short daily walk for your dog or a game of hide and seek with your cat.

Make it fun: Doing the same acti vity over and over can bore anyone. Although it’s easy to think that Fido loves nothing more than playing fetch, once a week try something new to vary his routi ne. Modifying exercises give our pets a chance to rethink the game. Changes don’t need to be


extreme either. Would your pooch enjoy a game of nightti me fetch with a lighted ball? There is only one way to fi nd out… Trial and error is the best plan for success when it comes to discovering your pet’s favorite daily acti viti es as well as their weekly fun acti vity.

Hygiene

Healthy skin and coats begin with good nutriti on and proper parasite control but end with good grooming habits. Adding regular brushing and occasional baths to your pet’s routi ne will reward you with reduced shedding and bett er overall pet health. We all know that proper hygienic care our pets, whether horses, cats or dogs, is important but we may not realized how many health benefi ts come with cleanliness. Cleanliness can reduce the onset of common infecti ons, prevent parasiti c infestati ons and create good dental health.

Relati onships

We’ve addressed a lot of goals related to the physical well being of our pets but we can’t forget that our relati onships are what provide the fuel we need to get through the day and our pets need the same thing. Creati ng a benefi cial relati onship with your pet will require you to diff erenti ate which needs are yours and which needs are your pets. Building a relati onship with your pet means getti ng inside their minds and determining what will bring them the greatest amount of joy and create the strongest level of trust and sati sfacti on for them.

Cats: Many people believe that a cat is happiest when given total independence and moderate interacti on. While this may be true for some cats, it is not always the case. Cats oft en derive the greatest amount of pleasure from acti viti es which can be performed everyday: petti ng, brushing, scheduled feedings, acti ve playti me, and shared sleeping arrangements. If you give your cat the opti on of sharing your sleeping space with you they will rarely pass it up. Be sure to avoid yelling at your cat if they do something wrong. Unlike other animals, cats do not necessarily connect a negati ve reacti on from you with their own behavior. Therefore, yelling at your cat for being underfoot while you carry in groceries will likely not have the desired eff ect you hope for.

Dogs: The dog has long been considered “man’s best friend” and this is due in large part to their unyielding desire to accompany us wherever we go, please us whenever possible and comfort us when they sense distress.

First and foremost, dogs thrive on human kindness and aff ecti on, so give your pooch the friendly touch he strives for or a kind tone of voice when you greet him. Secondly, dogs enjoy being a part of the team. Whenever possibleinvolve your dog in your regular daily acti viti es. A trip to

the dry cleaners may not seem like the most exciti ng part of your day however Fido will surely enjoy the diversion. Dogs feel the greatest bond with us when they know that they are safe and secure. Feeding your dog on a schedule, brushing their coat oft en and providing them with plenty of aff ecti on are your best bets to creati ng a solid and never ending bond with your dog.

Horses: The relati onship between a human and a horse can be formed quite strongly when you employ pati ence, understanding, and observati on in all of your interacti ons. Spending ti me playing with your horse allows you the opportunity to become a friend and companion, not just a rider. Like play ti me, simply spending leisure ti me with your horse can also be a very eff ecti ve way to forti fy your bond. Walk and graze with your horse. Move around the pasture as he does. Simply sharing the same space can go a long way toward increasing your horse’s comfort level. When you handle your horse make an eff ort to be calm and consistent. If you are abrupt or fl ighty around your horse you may inadvertently cause him to react the same way and become spooked. If you are steady, calm and fi rm your horse will look to you as an indicator. Pati ence is a virtue when working with your horse. If you lose your temper or display frustrati on your horse will sense it and you may accidentally undo some of the great bonding work you’ve already accomplished.

20 www.northwestpetmagazine.com20 www.northwestpetmagazine.com


Chinchilla

Feeding:Chinchillas require a lot of roughage, and the diet should consist of a good quality grass hay and specially formulated chinchilla pellets. Treats can be given in moderation but the digestive system of a chinchillas is fairly sensitive and any major diet changes should be performed gradually.

Temperament:Handling your Chinchilla from an early age will cause most chinchillas to become quite tame as well as bond closely with their owners. Though not as common, some Chinchillas do not like to be held or cuddled. They are very active and playful. Chinchillas can be kept singly or will usually do well as same sex pairs.

Cages:Cages must be large and multi-leveled complete with platforms, ramps, and perches. Since Chinchillas can jump (up to 6 feet high!) and run quite quickly the more space you can give her the better.

Origin:Chinchillas are native to the Andes mountains in South America and get their name from the Chincha people of the Andes.

Life Span:Chinchillas typically live about 15 years however 18-22 years is not uncommon.

Size:Body length about 10-14 inches; tail is another 5-6 inches or so.

Habits:Chinchillas are largely nocturnal and will therefore be most active at night. Chinchillas prefer to be kept in a fairly quiet area during the day. Chinchillas prefer consistent routines for both handling and feeding times. Changes to their routine can cause extreme stress. Chinchillas need a roomy cage for exercise, opportunity for daily playtime. Since Chinchillas are unable to sweat, temperatures over 80F can be dangerous for them, causing them to become overheated and suffer from heat stroke.

Handling and Taming:You must be gentle and consistent in order to gain the trust of a chinchilla but regular handling and proper care will make your Chin tame in no time.

Dust Bath and Toys:Along with regular access to a dust bath, chinchillas need a variety of toys to keep them busy and active. As with any other rodent, specialty chew items are necessary in order to keep their incisor teeth in good condition. The chinchilla truly enjoys lounging around in a hammock or hiding inside a mostly closed off box.

In the Spotlight...

22 northwest pet magazine22 northwest pet magazine

Angie’s Groomingdales | Angie Brainard

advice from:

northwest pet magazine | Pet Advice

My dog seems to go through a mid-winter molti ng. There is hair everywhere and I can’t seem to stay on top of it! Help! Is there anything I can do to reduce the mess during this ‘shed-fest’? Signed - Losing more than my hair, Post Falls

Springti me shaving as their only opti on.

Secondly, as we bring Fido & Fifi into our homes more regularly it may feel as though this “winter molt” is more pronounced because we start seeing all of the fur they leave behind on our carpets, rugs and couches!

The third factor contributi ng to your dog’s “winter molt” is the increase in dry heat being supplied to your home through your heater or fi replace. Our dogs’ coats and skin become dry and someti mes itchy because of the lack of moisture in the air. A professional hot oil moisturizing treatment at the ti me of service will likely remedy this situati on. Hot oil also acts as a natural snow repellent and helps keep those tricky snowballs from att aching to our pet’s coats. It is VERY important that your dog have plenty of fresh water and a regular brushing to help bring the natural oils from the skin up and dispersed throughout the hair coat.

Remember, your professional groomer is your friend! He/she can help you set up a schedule for your parti cular breed/hair type and if you sti ck to it, not only your pet will be happy and healthier for it, but so will your wallet!

My name is Angie Brainard. I have owned and operated Angie’s Groomingdales for the past 12 yrs. We would be happy to answer any grooming questi ons you may have. (208) 666-6025

Submit your pet advice questi on online at:www.northwestpetmagazine.com

I get a lot of clients this ti me of year, complaining about this very thing. There are many reasons for the late season shed, but I’ll explain the three basic reasons. Keep in mind, good diet/nutriti on can help diminish the shedding exponenti ally.

First, the “winter molt” occurs because most double coated dogs naturally shed twice a year, once in the late fall as the days start getti ng shorter, and once again later in the season. In order for the new under wool to grow properly and to ensure your pet stay warm this winter, it is important that you schedule a proper “blow out” during this molti ng stage.

Many people ignore this late fall molti ng and let their dogs go all winter with the “tuft s” but unfortunately ignoring the seasonal changes in their coat can result in a

Winter Grooming


As we watch the mercury drop we insti ncti vely make adjustments to our living environment to keep ourselves as comfortable as possible. We change over to fl annel sheets, turn the heater up, dig out our slip-resistant snow boots and spend more and more ti me indoors. It is important to remember that we are not the only ones aff ected by the changing of the season. Our pets rely on us to make the same adjustments to their living environment and protect them from the hazards of winter living.

Very oft en we assume that because our pets are animals they are equipped to protect themselves from natural changes in the weather. While it is true that our pets are more in tune with nature than we are and capable of surviving in a natural habitat we must also remember that we have transiti oned our wild ones into beloved pets by giving them food, shelter, warmth and love. The winterti me is when it is most vital that we conti nue to provide for our pets by modifying those conditi ons to match the challenges our changing weather presents.Here are some minor adjustments you can make to keep your pets safe during these harsh winter months along with some common winter woes to be on the look out for.

Shelter: Try and keep your pets indoors as much as possible; if this is not an opti on, make sure to provide your pet with a warm and dry shelter and as much weather resistant protecti on as possible. Hypothermia and a diminished immune system are both possible ramifi cati ons which could result from extended exposure to adverse weather conditi ons. Outdoor shelter should be placed at an elevati on and include a door or protected opening. If weather conditi ons become too severe however, moving your pet indoors will become the only safe opti on.

Feeding: Pets that spend a lot of ti me outdoors will require a higher caloric intake in order to keep themselves warm. Stay on top of your pet’s diet and adjust your pet’s food to accommodate their new needs. Safety: Many species that are kept as pets. and cats in parti cular, tend to seek out warm places for shelter. If you have a cat that spends ti me outdoors this can present a problem. One of the risks associated with this type of behavior is the presence of our feline friends snuggled up under the hood of our car or near a generator. Before you start your motor, bang loudly on the car hood to give the cat a chance to escape. Also, never leave your dog or cat in your car during cold weather. If the engine is off they can become hypothermic; if the engine is left running, they can be overcome


As we watch the mercury drop we insti ncti vely make adjustments to our living environment to keep ourselves as comfortable as possible. We change over to fl annel sheets, turn the heater up, dig out our slip-resistant snow boots and spend more and more ti me indoors. It is important to remember that we are not the only ones aff ected by the changing of the season. Our pets rely on us to make the same adjustments to their living environment and protect them from the hazards of winter living.

Very oft en we assume that because our pets are animals they are equipped to protect themselves from natural changes in the weather. While it is true that our pets are more in tune with nature than we are and capable of surviving in a natural habitat we must also remember that we have transiti oned our wild ones into beloved pets by giving them food, shelter, warmth and love. The winterti me is when it is most vital that we conti nue to provide for our pets by modifying those conditi ons to match the challenges our changing weather presents.Here are some minor adjustments you can make to keep your pets safe during these harsh winter months along with some common winter woes to be on the look out for.

Shelter: Try and keep your pets indoors as much as possible; if this is not an opti on, make sure to provide your pet with a warm and dry shelter and as much weather resistant protecti on as possible. Hypothermia and a diminished immune system are both possible ramifi cati ons which could result from extended exposure to adverse weather conditi ons. Outdoor shelter should be placed at an elevati on and include a door or protected opening. If weather conditi ons become too severe however, moving your pet indoors will become the only safe opti on.

Feeding: Feeding: Pets that spend a lot of ti me outdoors will require a higher caloric intake in order to keep themselves warm. Stay on top of your pet’s diet and adjust your pet’s food to accommodate their new needs. Safety: Many species that are kept as pets. and cats in parti cular, tend to seek out warm places for shelter. If you have a cat that spends ti me outdoors this can present a problem. One of the risks associated with this type of behavior is the presence of our feline friends snuggled up under the hood of our car or near a generator. Before you start your motor, bang loudly on the car hood to give the cat a chance to escape. Also, never leave your dog or cat in your car during cold weather. If the engine is off they can become hypothermic; if the engine is left running, they can be overcome

pet health in the

northwestHow to prevent and recognize common winter ailmentsby Emily Olson


Fire and heati ng safety: Take precauti ons when considering which type of heati ng devices you use in your home. As previously menti oned, animals are drawn to warmth and as such a heati ng device creates the perfect place to cozy up. It is imperati ve that you remain on guard to help your pet avoid accidentally incurring burns or knocking over the heati ng device and posing a fi re hazard to your home.

Age and health considerati ons: Be parti cularly cauti ous with elderly and arthriti c pets. The cold weather can leave joints extremely sti ff and tender and consequently your pet may be in more pain than usual. Take extra cauti on when pets are climbing stairs or jumping onto or off of higher ground. When walking arthriti c and senior pets outdoors during cold months take special care to help them avoid a slip on ice as one bad fall could severely hurt them.

Consumpti on Hazards: Aft er your pets have been outside be sure to clean their paws of any salt and sand that may have gott en on their pads. Because cats and dogs regularly clean their paws, excessive ingesti on of de-icing chemicals, salt or poisonous anti freeze can be toxic to their system.

Dehydrati on: Not surprisingly, pets can oft en become dehydrated in winter. Keeping a fresh and full supply of fresh water is imperati ve to avoid dehydrati on.

COMMON WIN TER BLUESHorses:

• Mud Fever –A bacteria contracted from standing in wet, muddy fi elds and can identi fi ed by small scabs on the horse’s skin going up to the knees.• Rain Scald –The same bacteria that causes Mud Fever causes Rain Scald and can be recognized by the pres-ence of small scabs on the horse’s back. • Colic – Presents as abdominal pain and common symptoms include your horse laying down, kicking his stom-ach, trying to bite his stomach and stretching.

Cats:

• Asthma – Because of the increased use of our heaters and fi replaces cats can become asthmati c. Watch for shortness of breath and lethargy.• Hyperthyroidism – An increasing common affl icti on for cats. Symptoms can include weight loss, increased food consumpti on, vomiti ng and increased heart rate.• Lower Urinary Tract Infecti ons – This is common in both male & female cats and can be recognized by the absence of urinati on or urinati ng in areas other than the litt er box.

Dogs:

• Arthriti s –Cold winter temperatures can produce extreme joint pain in dogs.• Dehydrati on – Dogs need a lot of fresh water during the winter months. Be sure to provide plasti c water bowls for outdoor dogs as metal bowls can sti ck to your dog’s tongue. • Flu & Pneumonia – Just like in hu-mans, winter brings the potenti al for contracti ng any number of bugs and the fl u is the most common culprit.


northwest pet magazine | Pet Treats

Sweet treatsReward your furry friends

NW Seed & Pet2422 E Sprague, Spokane

Rathdrum Country Store14875 W Highway 53, Rathdrum

Big R 8307 East Trent Ave, Spokane

Prairie Dog Mercanti le2917 E Palouse HWY, Spokane

Good Dog3115 N Goverment Way, CDAUrban Canine

1220 S Grand BLVD, Spokane

Pawpular Pet Companions21950 E. Country Vista Drive #100, Liberty Lake

Urban Canine9222 N Newport HWY, Spokane

Good Dog3115 N Goverment, CDA

Dog Town518 S Thor St, Spokane

Dog Town518 S Thor St, Spokane


northwest pet magazine | Pet Recipes

Butternut Squash Dog Treats

3/4 cup squash purée2 eggs2 Tbs. peanut butter2 cups whole wheat flour1/2 cup all-purpose flour for rolling

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix eggs, squash and peanut butter in a large bowl. Incorporate flour until you have a stiff, dry dough. Knead with your hands if necessary. (This dough is much drier than cookie dough for humans, about the consistency of pie crust.) Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is 1/2 inch thick. Cut with the cookie cutter of your choice, or just use a knife to cut the dough into 1/2 inch squares. Bake the treats on greased cookie sheets until hard, about 25 minutes. Move to a wire rack to cool.Recipe from The Austin Gastronomist

CookiesBake them...

Cat Nip Snacks

1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour1 1/2 teaspoons organic catnip1/3 cup dry milk1/2 cup milk2 Tablespoons melted butter1 Tablespoon honey1 large egg

Combine dry ingredients in mixing bowls. Add wet ingredients and mix to form dough. Roll out, adding more flour if needed, and cut into squares or small shapes. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 20 minutes. Cool completely. Store in airtight container or freeze and thaw as needed.Group Recipe

Healthy Homemade Carrot and Oat Horse Treats

Two large carrots, washed but not peeled Two good tablespoons black treacle or molasses 1 cup porridge oats ¼ cup vegetable oil, plus extra 1 cup wholewheat flour, plus extra

Preheat oven to 275F. Line a baking tray with aluminum foil, and grease the foil lightly. Cut the ends off the carrots and grate Add oil and oats. Warm the treacle for a few seconds in the microwave, add to mixture. Mix together, add flour. The mixture should now have a stiff consistency.Form the mixture into small balls, and press them lightly onto the baking tray. Put in the oven for about two hours - the idea is to dry the treats out so that they can be stored. When done, put them on a wire rack to cool then pack into airtight containers.Recipe from Sara Walker

Hannah

Tahlulla

HankOliver Pike

Yukon

Abby

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Check out this month’s famous local friends! To submit your pet photos for consideration in the February issue, visit us online at www.NorthwestPetMagazine.com

Oliver

Jax & Jones

Harley

Greta

Merlin

Hugo

Jordan

Rommel


30 www.northwestpetmagazine.com30 www.northwestpetmagazine.com

written by Stephanie Waltz

It is no secret that animal companionship can be benefi cial to your health. It has been proven that pet owners can live longer, fuller lives, with benefi ts such as lower blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as an increased opportunity for exercise and socializati on. The benefi ts of our furry friends however can reach far beyond companionship. As far back as 460 BC the therapeuti c benefi ts of the horse were recognized by those working with the magnifi cent creatures. Since that ti me, the use of hippotherapy, the movement of the horse as a treatment therapy, has evolved into a common treatment method and can be seen in treatment programs around the world. Hippotherapy, more commonly known as Equine Therapy, is an experimental treatment used for clients who have movement dysfuncti on, cerebral palsy, auti sm, spinal cord injury, behavioral and psychological disorders, and more. Through the practi ce of therapeuti c horseback riding, pati ents can experience improved balance, posture and mobility, strengthening of core muscles and promoti on of good posture.

While the horse is walking or trotti ng its movement is rhythmic and consistent. It is believed that this rhythmic moti on can promote improved motor skills and enhance

strength and coordinati on. In additi on to the physical benefi ts of Equine Therapy, those who take part oft en experience emoti onal and behavioral benefi ts as well. The horse is a non-judgmental treatment partner who forms a bond with the pati ents it interacts with. The bond between horse and client can help to lower blood pressure and reduce anger and frustrati on while building trust and self-confi dence in the rider. While there remains much to learn about the ways in which our equine companions can aid in our growth and recovery, the benefi ts can already be seen in the many that have parti cipated in Equine Therapy programs and have formed everlasti ng bonds with their unique therapy partners.

For more informati on about Equine Therapy programs contact these local practi ti oners:

Free Rein Therapeuti c RidingSpokane, WA(509) 979-1468Paula Dillon Mays Therapy ClinicsSpokane, WA(509) 624-4200Kids in Moti on Physical TherapySandpoint, ID(208) 255-6693

northwest pet magazine | Pets with purpose

Post Falls, ID

Health Services River City Animal Hospital 310 N Herborn Pl (208) 777-9178

Dr. Tracy Ridgeway 920 N. Spokane St (208) 819-6472

Pet Supplies Pampurred Pet Boutique 920 N. Spokane St (208) 777-3190

Post Falls Co-Op 606 West Mullan Ave (208) 773-2113

Grooming Dog House Grooming 830 N Spokane St # 4 (208) 777-9988

Pretty Pooch 310 North Herborn Pl (208) 773-9198

Sandpoint, ID

Health Services Pend Oreille Veterinary 895 Kootenai Cut Off Rd (208) 263-2145

North Idaho Animal Hospital 320 South Ella Ave (208) 265-5700

Pet Supplies Pampurred Pets 210C N Triangle Dr (208) 263-0777

Carter Country Farm & Feed 357 Olive Ave (208) 263-8236

Grooming Professional Groomers 895 Kootenai Cut Off Rd (208) 263-8888

Pooch Parlor 210 N Triangle Dr # D (208) 255-2699

Hayden, ID

Health Services Prairie Animal Hospital 920 W Prairie Ave (208) 772-3214

Mountain View Veterinary 10187 N Taryne St (208) 772-7484

The Pet Stop 10464 N Government Way (208) 762-4474

Spokane

Health Services

Hunter Veterinary Clinic 933 N Washington St (509) 327-9354

Garland Animal Clinic 623 West Garland Ave (509) 326-3151

Pet Supplies Northwest Seed & Pet, Inc. 2422 East Sprague Ave (509) 534-0694

Bark Avenue LLC 4750 North Division St (509) 487-4242

Grooming Hot Dogz Grooming Salon 1028 W. Shannon Ave (509) 326-5788

Pink Poodle Pets & Grooming 3209 North Monroe St (509) 324-0750

North Spokane

Health Services

Fairwood Animal Hospital 317 West Hastings Rd (509) 467-0566

North Spokane Veterinary Clinic 9321 N Nevada St (509) 466-4696

Pet Supplies Nature's Pet Market 12208 N Division Street, Suite B (509) 464-3400

Urban Canine 9222 N Newport HWY (509) 465-9663

Grooming The Yuppy Puppy 9423 North Newport Hwy (509) 467-8221

Sylvano's Grooming Pet Spa 544 E. Hawthorne Rd. (509) 315-7808

DIR

EC

TOR

YHayden, ID Pet Supplies Invisible Fence2900 N Government Way(208) 664-9111 Grooming Town & Country Pet 1317 West Orchard Ave (208) 772-5297

Suzie's Hound House 10165 N Government Way (208) 772-7836

Coeur D'Alene, ID

Health Services Lake City Spay & Neuter Cliniic 902 Lincoln Way (208) 664-5629

Lakewood Animal Hospital 272 West Hanley Ave (208) 772-9669

Pet Supplies Good Dog 3115 Government Way, Suite 3 (208) 664-4364

D&B Farm & Home Store 170 E Kathleen Ave (208) 666-0506

Grooming Angie's Groomingdales 2425 N Government Way (208) 666-6025

Coeur D'alene Pet Resort 125 East Hazel Ave (208) 667-4606

Boarding Northwest Pet Resort 1717 Northwest Blvd (208) 292-4394

Paws & Claws Pet Resort 2900 Government (208) 667-6700

Liberty Lake, WA

Health Services Legacy Animal Medical Center 1318 N. Stanford Ln (509) 926-8387

Ponti Veterinary Hospital 25007 East Wellesley Ave (509) 922-7465

Pet Supplies Pawpular Companions 21950 E. Country Vista Dr #100 (509) 927-8890

Liberty Lake,WA

Inland NW Natural Pet Foods 5308 N Lynden Rd

(509) 928-7696

Grooming Flintlock Country Kennels 17505 East Cataldo Ave (509) 922-8118

Liberty Lake Veterinary 22026 E Country Vista Dr (509) 928-3007

Spokane Valley

Health Services Spokane Valley Animal Hosp 14306 East Sprague Ave (509) 926-1062

All Creatures Veterinary Clinic 11105 E Dishman Mica (509) 921-9829

Pet Supplies Evergreen Pet 14319 E Sprague Ave (509) 927-8890

Aslin-Finch Feed & Pet Supply 14705 East Sprague Ave (509) 926-6603

Grooming Shear Heaven Pet Salon 818 N Pines Rd # B (509) 922-8328

Julia’s Jungle Grooming 12619 E Sprague Ave # 1 (509) 922-6197

South Hill

Health Services The Cat’s Meow 1017 South Perry Street (509) 535-6369

Lincoln Heights Veterinary 2829 East 27th Ave (509) 535-3551

Pet Supplies Urban Canine 1220 South Grand Blvd (509) 744-9663

Prairie Dog Pet Mercantile 2917 East Palouse Hwy (509) 443-9663

Grooming Dogtown Company 518 South Thor Street (509) 534-4880

Healthy Pets Grooming 3509 East 16th Avenue(509) 455-7725

Want to see your prec ious pet in a future issue? Vis i t us onl ine to submit your photos for considerat ionAl l el ig ible photos must be 300 dpi or more and contain non copyrighted images.

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