(picnic grounds located behind Cooperstown Event Center)
Contests
Including Curliest Tail, Best Trick, and many more, plus the always anticipated & creative Costume Contests.
Vendors • Food • Chinese Auction
Suggested $5.00 donation per person to attend, children under 12 are free. Proceeds benefit Southwest PA Pugs with Special Needs and Guardian Angels Pug Rescue to pay for medical & ongoing expenses for our rescued pugs.
All dogs attending must be up to date on shots, leashed and under owner control at all times. Non-pug breeds welcome to come join in for a day of doggie fun.
Southwest PA Pugs with Special Needs PO Box 580, Donora, PA 15033
published by: Pittsburgh PetConnections, LLC. Pittsburgh PetConnections LLC. was formed in 2012. Our mission is to publish a high quality, informative publication focused on the Human-Animal Bond. We support local businesses and also assist local non-profit businesses for pets and people, to give back to our great Pittsburgh communities.
MAGAZINE PUBLICATION STAFF
Carla Mader, Managing Editor
Kara Jones Photography, Photography
Jaimee D. Greenawalt, Art Director
Carla Mader, Sales & Distribution Manager
ADVERTISING SALES
Robin Reinfeld, Director of Sales, Pittsburgh 412-780-2254 | rrcd@aol.com
Denise Iamurri Bartman, Marketing Director, Pittsburgh & Central OH
I recently received a call from an acquaintance, Julie, who said, “I finally understand what you do.” She and her boyfriend recently lost one of his aged dogs. As Julie helped him through the process, she experienced firsthand the connection, and now gets what our pets mean to us.
It is always so heartwarming to hear stories like Julie’s and also to see increasing and ongoing pet content in our area. Pets are adorning covers of just about every title circulating in the Burgh, along with television and radio. The Human-Animal Bond is being understood and appreciated more, and also by non-pet owners.
PetConnections will continue to focus on our mission of Education and Community and highlight the many aspects of the Human-Animal Bond. Also, to raise funds for HAAWC for educational and veterinary assistance programs (haawc.org). We will be doing just that at our Inaugural PetConnections Pet Expo, Symposium & Gala in Columbus, Ohio. It will be held at the Greater Columbus Conventions Center on October 15 & 16, 2016. We will be announcing our spring 2017 date for a Pittsburgh Symposium & Gala! More announcements and details of the show will be coming to our website www.petconnections.pet/PetConnections-Pet-Care-Expo-Gala
This Issue
Our featured organizations on the cover are C.A.R.M.A.A. and Pet for Vets trainer recruitment at Animal Friends. Read more about both and meet adoptable dogs at C.A.R.M.A.A.’s DogtoberFEST, at the Waterfront, on October 1st. The Western PA Humane Society highlights their events in this month’s article. The Animal Rescue League, Animal Friends and the Western PA Humane Society all team up to raise funds at the Pup Crawl. See our events page for a list, dates and websites for additional upcoming events like the Pittsburgh Pet Expo, Caravan for Canines, Pugtoberfest, Paws for the Cure and more!
Our featured business is VCA Castle Shannon Veterinary Hospital and their new veterinarian, Dr. Qiang Li and starting in September offering acupuncture and herbal medicine!
We welcome sponsors this issue, Larry’s Laundromutt, Cheyenne Veterinary Wellness and Surgery Center, No Boarders Pet and Animal Care, Best Breeds Holistic Pet Food, PA School of Grooming and Happy Tailz Spa.
Our articles this issue include Animal Communication, Periodontal Disease in Pets, and Holistic Spirit. Featured in our Wellness for Guardians section, Judith Levy writes about Letting Go of Resentments and Nutrition tips by Kristen Lane. Also, Straight Lines and Circles by Kristen Hermann. Also, for our horse lovers, the Manon Farm had their Disney Program last month and here are a few photos! For more info, find the Manon farm riding programs in our directory!
Become part of the PetConnections community with a VIP Individual or Business MembershipMemberships for Business and Non-Profit Organizations are available with many benefits and to participate in special offers to our VIP PetConnections Members!
The cost is up to you! Receive basic VIP recognition for $25. Esteemed VIP $50, Highly Esteemed VIP $75, Gold VIP $100 or more. We would love if you could include a personal note and photos as well! We will respond to everyone. Sign up today! http://www.pghpetconnections.com/Subscribe/ Submit your photos and stories, as well as remembrances to be featured online and in future issues to: info@pghpetconnections.com.
Thank you for picking up this copy of PetConnections. Take care of yourself and your animals and be well!
Warmly,
Kristen Lane
Kristen Hermann
PHOTOGRAPHY
Cover photo: Seeing Spotz Photography CARMAA: Photo by Kim Lenz/ Behind the Lenz Phtography
Carla Mader
Publisher
Pittsburgh | Central Ohio PetConnections Magazine
Please submit any correspondence to: info@pghpetconnections.com Please check us out on the web & subscribe at: www.petconnections.pet. Follow PghPetMag on Twitter and “Like” us on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/ PghPetconnectionsMagazine. Disclaimer: The views expressed in our content does not necessarily reflect that of PetConnections Magazine. PetConnections shall be indemnified
Human-Animal Bond
Animal Communication
By Jen Ortman
Understanding what your pet is thinking or feeling can be a daunting task. Without verbal skills, or our ability to speak their language, we are left to follow physical cues to understand their needs. This is true, unless you enlist the help of a professional Animal Communicator. Simply put animal communication is the “interspecies exchange of information, using a heart-based connection. The science is based largely on Quantum Physics, and can be accomplished either verbally, or intuitively.
We all talk to our pets- you know you do! And although studies indicate that our furry companions understand most of what we’re saying, most people don’t “hear them” reply. Animals who are strongly connected to their human have access to the “mental movie” that plays in the biped’s mind. For example, as you contemplate weekend plans, you think of what you’re going to do, and when. We have reason to believe that strongly-connected pets take information from this natural practice. And because it’s not a perfect process, there are people that can help with translation.
Animal Communicators utilize several techniques in their communication exchange with your pet. After a strong, heart-based introduction is established, some of the skills utilized may include telepathy, intuition, claircognizance (knowing), and clairsentience (touch). Communicators don’t “read” your pet’s body language, or look for information on the internet beforehand. Because the energetic exchange of information between the human and the animal is based on Quantum Physics, Animal Communication is equally as effective when performed live or remotely. Therefore, a professional Communicator should be able to offer both types of sessions. The same principle applies to animals that are living and deceased. Because energy is not destroyed, animals in the afterlife communicate just as living ones do.
Although the ability to communicate with animals can be learned by anyone, some individuals have the natural capability. Currently, there is no national program for certification, so
asking questions is important before agreeing to do business with a communicator. Some questions might include the length of a session, how the professional works, and if they have references. Also learn what areas the communicator specializes in, such as lost pets, medical intuition, or general communication.
How do you locate a Communicator to work with? Start by asking if friends or acquaintances have had an experience with one. If you’re willing to do a remote, or phone session, your options increase substantially, even globally. Many can be found using an internet search, or even through local pet events and shows. It’s very important to find an individual you’re comfortable working with, and one that you feel gives you accurate information.
The pet owner’s state of mind is critical for the success of a communication session. If there is any doubt on their part, or from someone joining the session with them, information coming from the pet to the Communicator can be blocked. An open mind allows for the natural, energetic flow of information to unfold between the professional and your pet. It is highly uncommon that a pet “just doesn’t want to talk today”; however, if the owner is blocking the flow energetically, communication may not be possible.
As a pet owner, working with an Animal Communicator can be an invaluable experience. The information gained from a session provides a completely new dimension to the interactions with your pet, and gives a new understanding to some of the things that may have been unexplained in the past. There are three substantial ways this partnership can enhance the relationship you have with your fur-kids.
Changes in companion animal behavior can be the result of medical issues, the loss or introduction of a pet, or household stress, just to name a few. In working with an Animal Communicator, your pet may be able to provide information that explains some of the behavior. Because the process is two-fold, you are able to express your wishes to your pet during the session. It’s important to note that animals have “free will”. They can change their mind, just like people do. Communication is an effective tool in understanding why your pet is behaving in a certain
way, but considering free will, they may abandon their commitment to your requested changes.
In cases of medical mysteries, Animal Communicators can often shed light on how your pet is feeling, how something happened, and even where they hurt. Professionals will never prescribe or diagnose, but working in partnership with your veterinarian, treatment may be expedited, and your animal’s comfort may be enhanced.
One highly memorable session is that of “Spade”, a small terrier filled with anxiety. When his owner brought him in for a session, he communicated freely. Through the process of talking with Spade, he shared that he felt “clogged up” in his throat, and that he had a hard time controlling his anger. He also felt that his owner didn’t feed him enough, even though he was overweight. As the session continued, it became clear that Spade would benefit from a medical work up, and his veterinarian was consulted. After a thyroid test, Spade’s owner learned that his levels were abnormal, and that he needed medication. Along with other concerns that Spade shared in his session, changes were made, and Spade is now a calm and content little dog.
End life care, hospice, and euthanasia is one of the fastest growing areas of Animal Communication. Working together from the time of the initial diagnosis until the final journey across the rainbow bridge, a partnership with a Communicator can provide immeasurable comfort in honoring your pet’s wishes, understanding their comfort, and even helping them cross the bridge.
The process of Animal Communication helps to understand what your pet’s comfort or pain level is, and how they are responding to treatment. When it’s time for them to leave us, guided crossing with the help of a Communicator provides immeasurable comfort. Keeping in mind that this process can be done via phone, the internet, and in person, the potential to access end life services is vast! Animal Communication enhances your relationship with your pet in a way most people never thought was possible. Whether it’s a new puppy or a cat saying goodbye, consider giving communication a try. You’ll be glad you did. PC
2016 UPCOMING EVENTS Events
Western PA Humane Society
August 14th
CAT-A-PALOOZA
September 16th
BEST FRIENDS BALL
September 17
PUP CRAWL westernpahumane.org
(see page 16 for their highlights on events)
Animal Rescue League
August 28
CARAVAN FOR CANINES WITH CAMP BOW WOW
September 14
PETS AT THE PARK
September 17
PUP CRAWL animalrescue.org
Washington Area Humane Society
September 5
LABOR DAY SWIM
September 11
3RD ANNUAL PAWS AND PURRS 5K WALK
Washingtonpashelter.org
Tiny Cause
September 11
PAWS & CLAWS FEST & VACCINE CLINIC BY PENN HILLS SPAY & NEUTER CLINIC www.facebook.com/ OurTinyCause
Animal Friends
September 17
PUP CRAWL
September 23-24
BLACK TIE & TAILS: ART WITH BITE thinkingoutsidethecage.org
Animal care & Assistance Fund
September 19
8TH ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC animalcarefund.org
Petco - Robinson Township
September 24
2ND ANNUAL WAGS N WHISKERS ADOPTION EVENT 11am-3pm
Susan G. Komen
October 2
PAWS FOR CURE komenpittsburgh.org
C.A.R.M.A.A.
October 1
DOGTOBERFEST www.carmaa-petadoption.com
Southwest Pa Pug Rescue October 8
PUGTOBERFEST swpapug.org
Pittsburgh Pet Expo October 28-30 pghpetexpo.com
Featured Business
VCA Castle Shannon Animal Hospital
Jennifer Lauren Lopez, DVM, MBA
For many of us, our pets are more than our best friends; they are a part of our family, and we want only the best for them. Pets are living longer lives, and here at VCA Castle Shannon Animal Hospital, we recognize the importance of preventive health care and age-related medical conditions. With that reasoning, we have decided to expand our services to offer a more varied scope of Veterinary Medicine. Our clients are now able to choose from acupuncture and herbal therapeutic medicine, therapeutic laser Treatments and exotic and avian pet care.
It is with the addition of our newest doctor, Dr. Qiang Li, that beginning in September, we will be offering the service of acupuncture and herbal medicine.
Acupuncture is an ancient form of medical treatment, and is frequently used in companion animal species such as the horse, dog and cat. Most animals tolerate the treatments very well. In veterinary medicine, there is evidence of the success of acupuncture for treating disorders of the reproductive, musculoskeletal, neurologic, pulmonary, gastrointestinal and dermatologic systems. The most common conditions that are treated include traumatic nerve injuries, intervertebral disk disease, degenerative myelopathy, epilepsy and other central nervous system disorders. It may also be used to treat asthma, allergic dermatitis, lick granulomas, and chronic pain such as that caused by degenerative joint disease. Acupuncture stimulates healing of some conditions, and provides effective pain relief in others. If properly applied, it may eliminate the need for surgery in certain conditions. Following surgery, it can improve the patients’ comfort level and speed up the post-operative recovery period. In some cases, it may reduce or eliminate the need for chronic medication. If you are interested in our acupuncture services, please contact VCA Castle Shannon to set up an appointment with Dr. Li.
Therapeutic laser therapy is the application of light energy to areas of the body to stimulate healing and relieve pain. The most common applications for therapeutic laser include: joint and muscular sprain/ strain, osteoarthritis, postoperative application around incisions and wounds to stimulate and accelerate healing and any situation in which the pet is experiencing musculoskeletal pain.
Most patients receive therapeutic laser treatments two to five times per week for several weeks. Acute issues are generally treated more frequently but over a shorter time frame, while chronic conditions tend to be treated less frequently but for a longer overall time frame. Therapeutic laser treatment appointments are available all week long and can be purchased in affordable multiuse packages for your pet. If you are interested in discussing this service, please contact Dr. Lopez.
We also are pleased to provide Veterinary Care for your exotic and avian pets with the addition of our internship-trained veterinarian, Dr. Gabby Schrader. The medical care and treatment of avian and exotic pets is a discipline that requires a broad and extensive depth of knowledge as symptoms and conditions vary dramatically across every species. Dr. Schrader can provide primary care examinations and preventive medicine, and help answer any questions about your exotic pet’s husbandry, health, and nutrition. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Schrader, please call VCA Castle Shannon.
While we continue to be a 24-hour Emergency and General Practice Hospital, we know that people’s lives are hectic at times and weekend hours are more convenient. That is why we also have expanded our hours to include Wellness Clinic hours on the last Sunday of every month. Between the hours of 9am-12pm you will be able to get your pet’s yearly exam, blood chemistries, and vaccines. In addition, Dr. Lopez and Dr. Bogunjoko are available to make recommendations specifically for you pet, on parasite prevention, nutrition, and dental care. You will be able to get vaccines 50% off regular price with the purchase of a physical health exam. Please call and make an appointment for one of Wellness clinics.
With the knowledge of our expert veterinarians at VCA Castle Shannon Animal Hospital, we can help you address the specialized care you need and provide the products and resources your pet. The importance of pets maintaining a healthy lifestyle starts here at VCA Castle Shannon and begins with the message of enjoyable visits for all pets. Come see us today!
We are nose-to-tail full of excitement about the additions at VCA Castle Shannon!! PC
Dog Daze & Cafe
Doggy Daycare
Dog/Cat Boarding Grooming
Doggy
Day Care
Is your dog unhappy or lonely while you are at work or school? Give your companion the personal attention he or she deserves throughout the day by enrolling them in Big Easy Dog Daze. Located in the trendy neighborhood of Lawrenceville, PA, your pet will have fun and stay active in a safe and caring environment, plus have the opportunity to play and socialize with other dogs. We offer full and half day pricing as well as five, ten and twenty day packages.
Dog Boarding
Dog Daze offers boarding for your dogs while you are away. Once checked in, your dog receives only the finest amenities, which include CLEAN & DRY indoor accomodations, spacious clean runs with continuous contact with staff throughout the day, 4 to 6 daily outdoor break (always supervised), supervised daily play-group or staff interaction (dogs not suited for playgroups enjoy
one-on-one play with staff), and individual meal preparation using food from home.
Cat Boarding
Need to have your kitty enjoy the comforts of home while you are away? We have a “Cats Only, No Dogs Allowed!” boarding room at the Big Easy Animal Hospital section of the facility. Or Kitty Condos have a sunny window ledge with a view of our future cafe. We have a large private play area, complete with climbing trees, tunnels and a lot of play toys!!!
Dog Daze & Cafe
Get your day started with a locally sourced and brewed coffee and a selectable pastry from our cafe. Free wifi makes it a perfect place to work away from the office. Veterinarian owned, Pet Bakery of Oakmont, will be selling their goodies on site. More details about our dog friendly cafe coming soon........
Now offering Grooming!
Directories
Animal Educational Exhibits
North:
The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium pittsburghzoo.org
The National Aviary nationalaviary.org
Animal Communication
Greater Pittsburgh Area: Renee Takacs, M.A. intuitguide.com
Animal-Related Art, Photography & Retail April Minech Custom Portraits | Pet Inspired Art www.ladybugdelightz.etsy.com
Greater Pittsburgh Area: Pittsburgh Career Institute 412-281-2600 | pci.edu
our online directory at pghpetconnections.com/Dog-Cat-Directory
List your business today! info@pghpetconnections.com
Rescue & Shelter PETS FOR VETS: Trainers Needed for Lifesaving Program
By Joanne Moore, Chief Programs Officer at Animal Friends
“He gets me out of bed in the morning!”
“He has encouraged me to get active again and motivates me to remain connected to the world around me on my tough days.”
“She has made me laugh more in the past two weeks than I can ever remember laughing. I just don’t have words to explain what she means to me!”
These are just a few of the testimonials from veterans who have found a special healing connection with a companion animal through the national Pets for Vets program. Pets for Vets helps to heal the emotional wounds of military veterans by pairing them with a shelter dog, cat or rabbit specifically selected to match his or her personality. Animal Friends is proud to announce that we are now the Pittsburgh Chapter of Pets for Vets – and we need your help!
Key to the success of the Pets for Vets program is the animal trainer. A trainer will work to help identify a shelter pet who will fit with the veteran’s lifestyle. A multi-week “training camp” in the home of the trainer teaches good behavior and introduces a home environment and lifestyle.
“The selected animal spending time in the home of the trainer is what sets Pets for Vets apart from other adoption programs,” says Chapter Director and Director of Placement Services for Animal Friends, Kellie Roberts. “Many of the Pets for Vets clients are living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or Traumatic Brain Injury and this training helps to reduce the stress for the veteran by ensuring the animal is well-mannered and prepared for a home environment.”
Trainers need to have either professional or personal experience handling dogs, cats or rabbits. They also need a solid
foundation in training and theory and use only positive reinforcement techniques. The Pets for Vets training curricula was designed by the organization’s founder and animal trainer, Clarissa Black. During her experience working with therapy dogs in the company of America’s veterans and wounded soldiers, Clarissa saw firsthand how important animals can be in recovery. Her own experience with PTSD has given her a unique perspective on the training each pet receives, as well as being able to recognize what each veteran needs from his or her companion animal.
Recruiting trainers is the current focus for the program. Pets for Vets national coalition of trainers serves as a resource for Chapter Trainers by providing support and guidance all along the way.
“We know it is a commitment from the trainer,” says Ann Black, Pets for Vets’ Board of Directors President. “But if the trainer is willing to work with just one animal a year, that is a life changing event for a veteran.”
Animal Friends and Pets for Vets covers the cost for all animal expenses incurred by the trainer. “We want to make this as easy and convenient for the trainer as possible and we include a stipend for the trainer’s services,” says Roberts.
To learn more about this program and how you can participate please visit ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/PetsforVets or call Kellie Roberts at 412.847.7097. PC
When you become a trainer for Pets For Vets, you will work collaboratively with Animal Friends to identify and specially pair shelter pets with military veterans living with PTSD and TBI. You’ll then teach* the pets good manners to ensure they’ll fit in with the veteran’s lifestyle.
Because of you, the lives of veterans and homeless animals quite literally will be saved. What a great way to give back to our nation’s veterans and find homes for shelter pets! *The training curriculum is identified by the Pets for Vets national standard; training workshops are provided.
For more information, visit Thinking OutsideTheCage.org/PetsForVets.
Friends working together to help animals. CARMAA - the Coalition to Adopt, Rehome and Match Abandoned Animals — is a non-profit corporation formed in 2009 with a simple idea. With varied backgrounds and experience in many shelters and rescues, the group wanted to help in a novel way, by offering a specific idea - an all encompassing, umbrella form of support.
Rescue & Shelter
“Why not take the parts all of us (in animal welfare) have in common and work together?” says interim President and Secretary Becky DiLucia. “We’re different from other groups in that we don’t house any animals. Our mission is to support the common ground that all shelters and rescues share, which is helping animals find homes. There may be differences in the way each shelter or rescue works toward their goal, but we’re all like minded in many ways. That’s what CARMAA focuses on. How to work together, to find things that benefit everyone.”
Their signature event - DogtoberFEST - is an annual event that showcases adoptable animals, and the support available to keep owned dogs with workable issues in homes and out of shelters in the first place. All the shelters and rescues in the Western PA area are invited, and asked to bring examples of the dogs they have available for adoption. CARMAA wants the public to attend and see that there are great animals out there, of every age and size up for adoption. “Sometimes people think it’s too sad to visit a shelter, or that they only have troubled dogs”, says April Minech, CARMAA VP and Treasurer. “It’s just not true, and DogtoberFEST lets people see these animals in a happy, festive atmosphere. And they can learn about all the training and support that’s out there, who to contact, and how easy it might be to fix something that’s driving them crazy about their dog, like how to house train.”
The event kicks off at 11am with a Pooch Pride Parade costume contest, and there are
several categories for which $500 in prize money is awarded. Owner and Dog look-a-like, Most Original, and Best Costume overall are the top three prizes, but seeing all the dogs in their finery is win by itself. The parade usually draws about 100 participants, and is lead by official Grand Master Holly Gumbeski, who also handles the groups marketing and design duties. “it’s a lot of fun. People really go all out on costumes, and love to show off their work. The dogs seem to enjoy it as well, and it’s a fun activity to do with your pet. DogtoberFEST offers photo ops, the parade walk and other activities for people to come out and spend the day with their dogs.” Water and potty areas are provided at the location, and all owners are asked to be responsible with their pets. That includes a “no retractable leashes” policy, as the leashes are meant for exercising when nobody is around, and can be dangerous in crowded areas.
Typically, 75 - 100 shelters, rescues and vendors attend the event, so there’s something for everyone, and you may just be surprised at the type of animals that are available. “Maybe you’ve never considered a dog with some time under its belt, say 3 or 4 years old, but often they are already trained and settled, and can move right in” says professional trainer and founding CARMAA member Lilian Akin. She works with dogs at several of the shelters, and helps identify what type of training they need. “A lot of people aren’t aware of the amount of training that goes on before dogs are put up for adoption. In the shelter, we try to fix the issues that dogs come in with, so they don’t end up in the shelter again. So adopting a shelter dog comes with a lot more than people realize.”
There are also many rescues in attendance to answer specific questions about their breeds. If you’ve ever wanted to get a yorkie, stop by the “Save a Yorkie” booth that attends every year. They can let you know about skin conditions, house training issues, or even recommended diets that you may not have known about the breed. Or
by Kim Lenz/Behind the Lenz Phtography
NEBTR - Northeast Boston Terrier Rescue- that always bring 2 or 3 “little gentlemen” as the breed is known. Bostons are typically great family dogs, but each dog is unique, and like most rescues, they have dogs that have spent time in foster homes that can share real time experiences and recommendations for each dog in their care.
The event offers educational opportunities as well, and free “Ask a Trainer” and “Ask a Vet” booths. Any attendee can walk up to the booth and ask for advice on diet, bad habits or any question that you may have on your mind. The professionals on hand will give you their best opinion, and can suggest where to go for further help. If you always wanted to know why your dog does something, here’s an opportunity to ask.
Vendors that focus on dogs (and other pets) are also out in full force at the event, so you can check out the latest in fashion, toys or training gear. Many of the vendors that participate give back, in the form of donations and product to support animal welfare, so buying something from them instead of a large chain store helps the groups doing good work. And who doesn’t need a dragon shaped stuffie with eggs inside or a slow feed bowl shaped like a flower for their pampered pooch? We all love shopping for our fur babies, and now you can add the excuse that it’s just your way of helping homeless animals.
CARMAA also works to educate trainers, volunteers and shelter workers by bringing in national speakers, and breaking down the conference into smaller pieces so all the groups can participate. They’ve hosted several big names to date, including some from as far away as Norway. “Turid Ruggas was here for a week, and we really enjoyed her perspective on calming signals, and the fact that Norway has no dog shelters” says Minech. “Bringing a well rounded list of speakers can help everyone learn that there are many ways to see and do things, and though we may start out from different points, but we’re all in this together.”
CARMAA hopes to see you at their FREE event DogtoberFEST on Saturday October 1st at the Waterfront. Special guest host this year is radio personality Cris Winter. See how to register or get the latest information by checking their web site www.carmaa-petadoption.com, and start getting your your costumes ready for the 11am kick off costume parade! PC
Photo
Rescue & Shelter
Furry Friend Fun this Summer!
By Caitlin Lasky
Whether or not your pet gets a staycation or vacation this summer, the Western PA Humane Society has several exciting upcoming events around the city for both you and your furbabies. Interested in volunteering, sponsoring or being a vendor at an upcoming event?
Please contact Caitlynn Warren at cwarren@wpahumane.org.
Cat-a-Palooza
August 14th, 2:00pm to 5:00pm Western PA Humane Society 1101 Western Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15233
This is our best event of the summer for cat lovers! Join us for many fun, entertaining and educational activities. Meet adoptable cats & kittens, explore feline products at our vendor table, and enter to win amazing raffle items to take home to your cat. We will also have a cat expert on hand to answer the many questions you might have about your furry feline. Visit wpahumane.org/events to purchase tickets. Tickets can also be purchased at the event. Please note, this is a humans only event.
Dormont Doggy Dip
September 5th, 3:45pm to 8:00pm Dormont Pool 1801 Dormont Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15216
An entire pool public pool open for only dog swimming?! Celebrate the end of summer with us at the Dormont Pool with our annual Dormont Doggie Dip! The event features dog swimming sessions, raffles, vendors and more.
Three sessions will be held:
Small Dog Session (30 lbs or less)
3:45 PM – 5:00 PM
All Dog Session (all sizes welcome)
5:15 PM – 6:30 PM
Large Dog Session (60 lbs or more)
6:45 PM – 8:00 PM
Visit wpahumane.org/events for a link to the ticketing page. Tickets are available the day of the event, but sessions are often sold out in advance. Don’t miss out on this one of a kind event!
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Best Friend’s Ball
September 16th, 6:00pm-11:00pm
Heinz History Center 1212 Smallman St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Pup Crawl
September 17th, 6:30pm
Roberto Clemente Bridge Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Get your dog out of the house and on to the bridge! Western PA Humane Society,
Have a ball while supporting animals in need! This annual Western PA Humane Society event celebrates the thousands of forever friends and loving fami lies who have adopt ed from the shelter. Revel in the evening which will feature a cocktail hour, photo booth with adoptable animals, diner, open bar, silent and live auction, wine pull, and dancing! Visit http://www. wpahumane.org/bestfriendsball for more information on sponsorships and ticketing. Please note, this is a humans only event.
Animal Friends and Animal Rescue League team up on this event every year in order to raise funds and draw attention to homeless pets in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas. This event features a beautiful view of Pittsburgh that is perfect for some photos with your family and dog. You and your canine can enjoy activities for people and dogs of all ages including games, prizes, pet adoption opportunities, and more! Please visit wpahumane. org/events for a link to ticketing information.
The Western PA Humane Society thanks its supporters and the community for always showing support at its events which helps care for the thousands of homeless animals in Pittsburgh. If you have any questions about upcoming events, please call 412.321.4625 or visit wpahumane.org. PC
Advertiser Locator
Page 34 - Agway
Page 21 - A All About Pets Veterinary Hospitals
Page 29 - B Animal Elegance
Page 13 - M Animal Friends
Page 20 - C Animal Rescue League
Page 25 - D Beaver Animal Clinic
Page 26 - Best Breed Pet Food
Inside Front Cover - Pittsburgh Pet Expo
Page 29 - E Candelore’s Barking Beauties Pet Grooming
Page 36 - Carved Stone By Serena
Page 36 - F Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation
Page 18 -Q Cheyenne Veterinary Wellness and Surgical Center
Page 2 - W Country Lane Pet Hotel
Page 33 - G Coventry Stables
Inside Back Cover - Dog Stop/Komen Paws for the Cure
Page 31 - Fan Reps
Page 19 - H Fuzzy Paws Pet Villa
Page 32 - The Gateway at Summerset
Page 36 - Gentle Journey Veterinary Hospice
Page 32 - Glen Highland Farm
Page 19 - Happy Pets Training
Page 5 - I Healthy Pet Products
Page 29 - Invisible Fence of Pittsburgh
Page 34 - J Jefferson Memorial
Page 31 - Judith Levy Coaching
Page 19 - Kobi Collars
Page 2 - P Larry’s Laundromutt
Page 5 - X Lucky Paws
Page 19 - Manning Chiropractic and Wellness Center
Page 29 - L Monroeville Pet Hospital
Page 25 - K Murray Avenue Apothecary
Page 18 - No Boarders Pet and Animal Care
Page 27 - Petagogy
Page 19- Y Pittsburgh East Nissan
Back Cover - N Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center
Page 35 - Precious Pets Memorial & Cremation
Page 5 - Paws Here Awhile
Page 34 - O Rockin Horse Stables
Page 27 - Dr. Michael Savko
Page 9 - R The Big Easy Animal Hospital
Page 36 - Thousand Hills Pet Crematory
Page 8 - S VCA Castle Shannon
Page 6 - Washington Area
Humane Society
Page 17 - U Western PA
Humane Society
Page 19 - V Woody’s Dog Wash & Boutique
Page 6 - PA School of Grooming
Page 19 - Happy Tailz Spa
Pet Health & Wellness
Periodontal Disease in Dogs and Cats
By Krista Mendoza, DVM, DAVDC, Owner of Animal Dental Clinic of Pittsburgh, LLC and Dental Specialist at Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center (PVSEC)
If I told you that the most common medical condition in adult dogs and cats was completely preventable, would you jump at the chance to keep your furry best friend as healthy as possible? By 3 years of age, over 75% of dogs and cats have periodontal disease (“perio” means around, and “dontal” refers to teeth) or disease of the teeth and surrounding tissues. Just like in people, periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, in animals is avoidable with pro-active dental care. In order to understand how to prevent periodontal disease, we first need to know why it occurs in the first place.
Imagine how your mouth would taste, feel, and smell if you did not brush, floss, or use mouthwash for days, weeks, or even years! Yuck! When bacteria in the mouth mix with food debris and saliva, a substance called plaque is formed that sticks to the surface of the teeth. Plaque builds up within 4-12 hours, which is why people brush their teeth at least twice daily. When plaque is not removed from the tooth surface, it mixes with minerals from saliva and forms a hard substance called tartar or calculus. Once this hard layer is formed, it is no longer easily removed with dental home care and more plaque and tartar accumulate. Tartar in pets is often visible by owners as brown, gray, or yellow discoloration on the teeth. At this point, a professional dental cleaning with scaling and polishing is
necessary to remove the tartar and plaque above and below the gum-line.
Although tartar is unsightly on the tooth surface, it is really what happens beneath the gums that is the most important part of periodontal disease. As plaque bacteria move from the tooth surface into the deeper tissues under the gingiva (gums), the body’s immune system is activated to battle the infection. Toxins from the bacteria and the body’s chemical responses cause tissue destruction that result in pockets of infection around the tooth. As the disease progresses, worsening infection can lead to loose teeth, dental abscesses, fistulas (draining holes) that may connect with the nasal cavity on upper teeth, and bone infection (osteomyelitis) that may become so severe the jaw can fracture. With advanced infection, the bacteria in the mouth gain access to the bloodstream (bacteremia) and travel through the body. Studies in dogs have shown that periodontal disease is associated with changes in the heart, liver, and kidneys. Signs of dental disease in dogs and cats are bad breath (halitosis), difficulty or sensitivity when chewing leading to reluctance to eat hard food or avoiding toys, anorexia (not eating), weight loss, behavior changes, drooling, bleeding from the mouth, pawing at or rubbing the mouth, and swellings along the muzzle or jaw.
Photo of advanced periodontal disease in a dog from the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) website, www.avdc.org, click on Information for Animal Owners to learn more.
Treatment options for periodontal disease depend on the extent and severity of infection and tissue destruction. A professional veterinary dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar both above and below the gum-line should always be performed under general anesthesia in order to thoroughly clean and polish the teeth in a pain-free manner while protecting the animal’s airway. Dental radiographs taken under general anesthesia are an essential tool when determining the degree of infection hidden along the roots and bone and if treatment options other than extraction of teeth are possible (called periodontal therapy). The animal’s overall health and owner’s willingness to provide home dental care are important factors to consider. Any teeth that are loose or have significant infection should be removed. The goal with any dental treatment should be a healthy, functional, pain-free mouth.
The key to preventing periodontal disease from becoming so severe that it leads to serious infection and tooth loss is plaque removal. Remembering that plaque builds up in 4-12 hours, it makes sense that excellent oral health requires daily oral hygiene. The gold standard in home dental care for animals is daily tooth brushing, but very few (less than 2%) pet owners are able to brush their pet’s teeth. Toothpaste specially formulated for dogs and cats should always be used because it is fluoride free. Animals are like small children in that they don’t know to spit the toothpaste out during brushing like adults do, and swallowing fluoride can be toxic.
There are many other dental homecare options besides brushing to help keep your pet’s teeth clean. Brushless gels and oral sprays with enzymes and other ingredients to fight plaque are useful in cases where the owner can get into their pet’s mouth, but just for a short period of time. Healthy chewing with dental formulated diets and treats can help mechanically cleanse the teeth like a brush. Be sure to avoid offering
very hard objects (antlers, pig hooves, “indestructible” hard plastic chews, etc.) to your pet to chew on as these may fracture teeth. Water additives are another option to introduce enzymes that control plaque in your pet’s mouth while drinking. It is very important to avoid products with a high alcohol content that can burn sensitive gum tissue and xylitol, a sugar substitute that is toxic to animals. A complete list of products that have been awarded the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal of acceptance for meeting or exceeding standards in controlling plaque and tartar can be found at www.vohc.org.
It is important to realize that even with very good home care for your pet, periodic professional dental cleanings under anesthesia may still be necessary (remember that people should still see their dentist every 6 months for cleanings even with twice daily brushing). An oral exam and dental care discussion should be part of your pet’s regular checkups with the family veterinarian. For complicated cases involving high anesthesia risk or advanced periodontal disease, your veterinarian may discuss referring your pet to a veterinary dental specialist PC
EIGHTH ANNUAL
Animal Care & Assistance Fund Golf Classic
Monday, September 19, 2016 Shannopin Country Club 1 Windmere Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15202 10:30a 11:00a 12:00p 6:00p Registration begins Lunch Shotgun start Dinner/Awards
* $200/golfer or $800/foursome
* Includes 18 holes, cart, lunch, and dinner
* 4 person scramble (shotgun start)
* Lockers provided for each golfer
* Not required to change attire for dinner
* No spikes in the banquet hall * Registration Deadline: September 9th
Holistic Pet Care Holistic –Body, Mind, and SPIRIT
By Doug Knueven, DVM, CVA, CVC, CVCH
It is the addressing of Spirit as an aspect of medicine that sets holistic practitioners apart from many other veterinarians. In fact, according to one advocate of Evidence Based Medicine (EBM),
EBM adheres to the principle of methodological naturalism, which holds that scientific investigations must be limited to physical objects and processes that can be measured and manipulated and that obey laws of nature that can potentially be deduced. Methodological naturalism does not require taking a position on the existence or importance of supernatural forces; it merely excludes consideration of these from scientific investigation.1
You see, the scientific medicine of our day is based on the notion that all of reality is material and all the phenomena we experience can be reduced to atoms and molecules. According to this belief, holistic medicine, with its focus on body, mind, and spirit, is ridiculous because there is no spiritual aspect to reality. “Supernatural forces” are excluded from science, and science is all there is for EBMers. From the holistic perspective, Spirit is a vital aspect of reality and is not at all supernatural – it is the very essence of nature.
Insight into materialistic medicine can be gained by exploring the brain-mind problem; how does the brain produce the mind? The materialist view is that the mind is a byproduct of complex, computer-like, brain activity (although they have yet to explain exactly how this happens). Their evidence for this belief is that if the brain is dead, there is no consciousness. Furthermore,
damage to specific areas of the brain, leads to predictable loss of mental function. We also know from modern imaging, like functional MRI, that certain thoughts and activities correspond with activation of specific brain areas.
It is obvious that brain activity is correlated with mind activity. What is not clear from any of these observations is what causes what. Does the brain’s activity cause the mind to change or does the mind’s musings cause the associated brain activity?
An alternative view is that the non-material mind uses the brain to interface with the
physical world. I think of this like a TV studio broadcasting a program. The studio is like the mind/soul and the TV set is like the brain. If you unplug the TV set (kill the brain), then there is no picture (evidence of consciousness). But that does not mean the studio (mind/soul) stops existing. You could even tinker with the TV’s circuitry and get predictable changes in the TV’s picture as is seen with manipulating the brain.
The materialistic view that the mind is a product of the brain leads to some objectionable consequences. For example, if our brains are calling all the shots, then we are not responsible for our actions. Think about it; if all we are is an intricate arrangement of cells, then the brain is formed strictly by the combination of genetics and experience. Since we are not responsible for the DNA we were born with, nor for what happens to us, then we are not liable for the resultant actions of our brains and bodies. We have no free will. “My neurons made me do it!”
From the holistic perspective, Spirit is a vital aspect of reality and is not at all supernatural – it is the very essence of nature.
In fact, Frances Crick (co-discoverer of DNA’s molecular structure) summed this attitude up well when he stated that “…‘You,’ your joys and your sorrows, your memories and your ambitions, your sense of personal identity and free will, are in fact no more than the behavior of a vast assembly of nerve cells and their associated molecules.”2 I personally find this deterministic view of human experience to be pathetic.
In fact, research has found that there are negative social ramifications from the belief in determinism. In the study,3 one group of participants was given
continued on page 26
anti-freewill material to read (including quotes from Frances Crick). A second group read neutral statements. Later, the two groups were given experimental tasks during which an intentional glitch allowed them to cheat. The participants who had just read the deterministic propaganda were more likely than the control group to cheat. What does it say for those who adhere to EBM if simply reading antifreewill statements can cause unethical behavior?
When confronted by the materialistic point of view, Albert Einstein said, “No, this trick won’t work…. How on earth are you ever going to explain in terms of chemistry and physics so important a biological phenomenon as first love?” Another Nobel Prize winning physicist, Niels Bohr, similarly stated, “We can admittedly find nothing in physics or chemistry, that has even a remote bearing on consciousness.”
Holistic Pet Care
Let’s take a look at research that may shed some light on the brain-mind problem. Since the 1950’s there have been over 150 studies on a phenomenon called Distant Mental Influences on Living Systems (DMILS).4 These studies looked into people using their intention to affect organisms from bacteria and yeast to small mammals and humans.
Some of the DMILS studies involved an agent who directed either a calming or arousing intention toward a target person. According to 2 meta-analyses,5,6 in the vast majority of these investigations there was an appropriate response by the target’s autonomic nervous system as determined by changes in their skin conductance.
the target’s electrodermal reactions were automatically recorded. According to the same 2 meta-analyses mentioned above, almost all of the trials proved there was a significant effect. Doesn’t that make your hair stand on end?
The concept that conscious intention (such as prayer) can make physical changes at a distance is scoffed at by the skeptic EBMers. They call it “magical thinking.” The materialistic view has no explanation for how this could happen therefore they conclude that it does not (ignoring valid research).
In these experiments the target and agent were isolated in separate rooms with no sensory contact. Intention and non-intention periods were randomly interspersed automatically and the target responses were recorded automatically. Furthermore, since the targets’ responses were not under their conscious control, the studies eliminated the possibility of the target influencing the results due to expectation or guessing, further assuring unbiased results.
An interesting subset of these DMILS studies investigated the effect of being stared at. For these, the agent simply stared at the target (who was in a different room) via a video monitor. Again, the staring periods were random and
Well, according to the most authoritative research that these folks worship (metaanalyses), magical thinking is as real as it gets with a level of certainty that puts drug validation studies to shame. The mind is more than a biological computer. The power of the mind’s intention is only supernatural if you don’t fully understand nature. Let’s face it, they may be able to program a computer to beat humans at chess, but that computer will never experience the thrill of victory.
1. McKenzie BA, Is complementary and alternative medicine compatible with evidence-based medicine? J Am Vet Med Assoc 2012;241:421-426.
2. Crick F. 1994. The Astonishing Hypothesis: The Scientific Search for the Soul. New York: Charles Scribner’s Sons.
3. Vohs KD, Schooler JW. The Value of Believing in Free Will: Encouraging a Belief in Determinism Increases Cheating. Psychol Sci. 2008 Jan;19(1):4954.
4. Kelly EF, Kelly EW, Crabtree A, Gauld A, Grosso M, Greyson B. (2007) Irreducible mind: toward a psychology for the 21st century. Maryland: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
5. Schlitz M, Braud W. Distant intentionality and healing: assessing the evidence. Altern Ther Health Med. 1997;3(6):62-73.
6. Schmidt S, Schneider R, Utts J, Walach H. Distant intentionality and the feeling of being stared at: two meta-analyses. Br J Psychol. 2004;95(Pt 2):235247. PC
“Miracle worker”
Shelter dog with severe trouble walking sees Dr. Savko, improves! Gets adopted!
Colorado was in the shelter at Westmoreland Animal Friends, he was very clumsy walking, very weak and wobbly. There was significant concern about this condition and his future. The shelter wanted to see if it was even possible to get him better before he was put up for adoption. They had discussed some of their options, and remembered Dr. Savko’s good work on previous animals, so they made an appointment, still not quite sure though what to expect since the condition was so severe.
Well, Colorado improved immediately, and continued to get better so quickly that he was put up for adoption after just a few visits!
This guy could barely stand up straight, and when he walked it was very sloppy. There was discussion about him maybe never walking normally again...until he saw Dr. Savko!
Colorado, now renamed Buster, is in a happy home, having fun, enjoying life, with grateful and good parents.
Don’t keep this work a secret! Someone you know needs our help!
Healing, not simply treating.
Dr. Savko works with the following veterinary clinics: Holiday Park Animal Hospital, Plum PA
Greenfield Veterinary Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
Suburban Animal Clinic, Butler, PA
Fox Run Equine Center, Apollo, PA
Cat Rescue Resource Guide
Cat Rescue Resource Guide Kitty Korner
Low-Cost Spay & Neuter Organizations
& Programs
This is an ever-changing list of resources for cat owners in Pittsburgh and beyond, though many of the listings, like the shelters, apply to dogs and other pets as well. It includes low-cost spay and neuter programs as well as TNR for community cats, pet-friendly rentals in Pittsburgh and across the US, and links to shelters for adoption and other services. In the future we will also list clinic dates with the organizations below when they are available.
TNR & Low-Cost Spay/Neuter for the Pittsburgh Area
Homeless Cat Management Team: www.homelesscat.org
City of Pittsburgh Free Spay & Neuter for City Residents
City of Pittsburgh free spay/neuter: www.pittsburghpa.gov/animalcontrol/spay_neuter.htm
City of Pittsburgh residents can apply for free spay or neuter vouchers for up to five pets, including stray/ feral cats.
Low-Cost Spay/Neuter & TNR Programs at Allegheny & Surrounding County
Shelters
Animal Friends: www.thingkingoutsidethecage.org
Animal Rescue League: www.animalrescue.org
Beaver County Humane Society: www.beavercountyhumanesociety.org
Washington Area Humane Society: www.washingtonpashelter.org - Colony Cat Project: faith.b2@verizon.net
Western Pennsylvania Humane Society: www.wpahumane.org
Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Organizations in Allegheny & Surrounding Counties
Western Pennsylvania Humane Society (WPHS): www.wpahumane.org
Surrounding Counties:
Beaver County Humane Society: www.beavercountyhumanesociety.org
Butler County Humane Society: www.butlercountyhs.org
Humane Society of Westmoreland County: http://members.petfinder.com/~PA83/about.html
Washington Area Humane Society: www.washingtonpashelter.org
Non-Shelter Feline Adoption
FosterCat: www.fostercat.org
Kopy Kat Sanctuary | Westmoreland County (Delmont): www.kopykatsanctuary.org
175 acres of off-leash adventures await!
• explore miles of gorgeous trails through deep forest and open meadows • splash & swim in the spring-fed pond and winding creek • kick back & relax in the sun • jump into agility • share dog tales with other dog lovers who love their dog as much as you do • unwind by a toasty campfire under a blanket of shining stars
There is no other place on earth for dog lovers to Getaway like this!
Stay in one of our full-amenity RVs, get comfy in one of our cottages or cabins, or camp in the woods in our spacious tents. All proceeds benefit our on-site Border Collie rescue –feel good knowing your vacation dollars help dogs in need! Book your Getaway today! www.glenhighlandgetaway.com
Equine Affairs
Straight Lines and Circles, Oh My! Straight Lines and Circles, Oh My!
Training a horse is no easy feat, and one must consider why do we do it in the first place. Horses, tennis, golf, or swimming, whatever sport we choose, we all have our passions. Riding horses, however, is unique because I do not know of any other sport where you straddle an animal and try to work in harmony. I said that to someone once, and they said, “Well, what about bull riding?” In bull riding the objective is for the bull to buck you off. No harmony in that! First, we learn how to ride, and then we learn how to train the horse. And training is mostly done on straight lines and circles! (See the article Academic Riding in Pittsburgh Pet Connections.) Certainly, a pleasure rider who prefers hacking outside, training on straight lines and circles could not be their thing, riding in the woods would be! However, when I am riding and training my horse, in the arena or hacking on straight lines in the country, I maintain an awareness of the horse’s body position. This is training.
The straight lines and circles have such value when we train the horse. We need to train the horse to go symmetrical, to do equally on one side of its body as it does on the other side of its body. Just like any athlete who needs to be ambidextrous. On the horse, we have to be able to ride in both directions equally. Once I was giving a lesson, and my student said, “Can we do something other than straight lines and circles?” I jokingly
By Kristen Hermann
replied, “Well, we could do backward flips!” So either the rider wants to buckle down and enjoy the value of straight lines and circles to train the horse, or they can “pleasure ride” and not worry about all this stuff.
The circle is where the rider establishes most of the basics needed for training a horse. Maintaining a rhythm on the circle is one of the first requirements to train the horse. On the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) training scale, the first three requirements: relaxation, rhythm, and contact. This training scale makes so much sense but for years, I trained horses and paid no attention to it. #1 is relaxation: you cannot train a horse without first having relaxation because, without it, you do not have the horse’s mind. If the horse is distracted or nervous, it is hard to get its attention. #2 is rhythm: you have to have a steady pace/rhythm to train a horse. A horse going too fast and then slowing down is erratic in its rhythm. When I see a horse move like that, I think of a skipping record, totally annoying. So a mantra you hear in many of my lessons is, “Rhythm, rhythm, rhythm” and this is established on a circle!
The circle helps to naturally balance the horse; it keeps the horse focused and encourages rhythm. Cowboys use a round pen; this is a nice safe enclosed circle to keep the trainer and horse safe. English riders mostly just determine the size of the circle and stay on it, and/or a lot of time is spent lunging on a circle.
Once the rhythm is established on the circle (see Pittsburgh Pet Connections article The Training Wheel of Training ) the rider then tests what she has established on the circle on the straight line. The straight line is like the testing ground of the work established on the circle. When you think the horse is relaxed and rhythmic on the circle, then test it on the straight line. If the horse speeds up when you ride on the straight line,
go back to the circle and keep repeating this until the horse can carry itself and keep rhythm on the straight line.
A straight horse has its head in line with its shoulders, and its shoulders in line with its haunches. This is called horizontal alignment. The rider is to maintain vertical alignment to communicate to the horse with the aids.
The horse has to find its balance, stay relaxed and rhythmic. This is basic training. Circles and straight lines are just the beginning and only once you have the basics can you start to refine your riding. Dressage riders, will progress to smaller circles and then collection, for example. Hunter seat riders will test the relaxation, rhythm and contact over fences and if the horse rushes, they will return the horse to a circle. Cross country riders may just establish a forward hand gallop and be content with this!
No matter what discipline we pursue with our horse, when a problem occurs with the training and the horse needs an adjustment, where are we going to return? The basics! A circle and then a straight line with relaxation and rhythm. PC
Coventry Equestrian Center
Dressage ~Gymnastic Training for all horses & riders
Learn how to ride & train with clarity for Dressage, Hunt Seat, Eventing, Western, Pleasure
All horses & riders benefit utilizing simplified gymnastic training (dressage) Kristin Hermann blythedale@comcast.net www.CoventryEquestrianCenter.com 724-206-9902
Visit the “Home Schooling Your Horse” Facebook page for simplified training tips
Circles are the beginning of a horse’s training, whether a round pen, lunging or riding corners. Circles encourage rhythm, relaxation and suppleness. The rider “positions” the horse’s body onto the arc of the circle… horses do not just bend on their own.
Mika Hershey
By Rosie Brunner Hershey, my beautiful daughter (bird) passed away on June 19th, at the age of 16.
I will never forget her or that joy she brought me. I welcomed Hershey (full name Bonnie Colleen Joyce Alex Cahill Hershey, first three names after some old friends of mine, Alex Cahill after Walker’s, same as my male cockatiel, originally known as Buddy was renamed Walker after Chuck Norris’s beloved character from the ‘90s, and was later renamed Snake Plissken. She was renamed Hershey to match him, into my heart and my life at age 7, on a winter night in 2001. I bought her from a breeder and the girl who sold her to me was wearing earrings and a bracelet and said “She likes to play with jewelry,” I smiled and thought about letting her play with my bracelets.
I named her Bonnie because I thought she looked like Bonnie, who was a good, good friend of mine.
To me Hershey was much more than a bird. She was my daughter. I loved her since I was 7 years old and I always saw her as a younger, sweeter, more beautiful version of myself.
As I buried her, I looked at her one last time and told her “I’ll never forget you, Hershey. I couldn’t ask for a better daughter. You were there for me when nobody else was and you saw me at my worst and always cheered me up. Thank you for everything. I really miss you and I can’t believe you’re gone. I wish I could hold you one last time. Make that one million last times. I’m so sorry. Goodbye Hershey. I love you,” I said as I buried her, tears streaming down my face. Then I heard what sounded like a young female voice saying “I’m with you in spirit” and I believe it was her even though she couldn’t speak English but she was breaking through my realm to tell me she is okay.
I will never forget my beautiful daughter Hershey and the happiness and comfort she brought me. I think when she died she took a big chunk of me with her, as have Rainbow the Betta, Gauge the Parakeet and many others. The 16 years I had her by my side were some of the most beautiful years of my life even in the darkest of times.
Mika (pronounced Meeka) literally dropped into our lives from the branches of a pine tree in a rails-to-trails parking lot in West Newton, Pa. It was immediately clear that she was a cold, desperate, frightened kitten, abandoned there. Being a cold November day, the decision was made to take the little Calico kitty home. There were 3 dogs in the car so she was placed in the trunk for the mile long ride home. She and these dogs got along just fine and would later spend many hours sleeping in the sun together. When she was handed to my son, it was the beginning of a close bond that would last for 16 years. Mika was definitely a “one man cat”. She loved the wooded property, the vegetable patch and even had her own catnip crop in the flower garden. Mika was an observer of animal visitors in the yard and considered them as guests, treating them accordingly so. She loved “working” the yard with her favorite person. The sound of his truck in the driveway was the signal to run to the door in anticipation. Even the dogs couldn’t keep up. She was a “talker” and always answered every question she was asked - even though it was in “cat speak”. The bathroom sink was a favorite cool place to sleep in the summer but the heating pad in her bed was the greatest on a cold winter night. The little Calico lady loved hockey and never missed a Pens game, happily perched on my son’s lap. The loud cheering didn’t bother her. Cool, composed Calico kitty.
We lost her in June when time and age took their toll as they always do. Sadness followed as it always does. And time goes on as it always does. The one man kitty rests in a beautiful shady spot near the other beloved pets where the Lillies of the Valley grow. Arching red and white bleeding hearts surround the stone markers. An occasional passing of a squirrel or bunny can be seen sitting on the new soft dirt. It’s ok. She would have liked that. - Janet & Jeff
ANESTHESIOLOGY
ANESTHESIOLOGY
Dianna Ovbey, DVM, MS, DACVAA
Dianna Ovbey, DVM, MS, Practice Ltd. to Anesthesiology CARDIOLOGY
MRI & CT IMAGING
MRI & CT IMAGING
PetsDx Veterinary Imaging www.petsdx.com
PetsDx Veterinary Imaging www.petsdx.com
Isla Arcaro, DVM, MS CARDIOLOGY
Eva Sikorska, DVM, DACVIM
Erin Trageser, VMD, MSc, DACVIM DENTISTRY
Eva Sikorska, DVM, DACVIM
Gerald Frye, VMD NEUROLOGY
Gerald Frye, VMD NEUROLOGY
Edward MacKillop, DVM, DACVO
Edward MacKillop, DVM, DACVIM
Erin Anderson , VMD, MSc, DACVIM DENTISTRY
Krista Mendoza, DVM, DAVDC DERMATOLOGY
Krista Mendoza, DVM, DAVDC DERMATOLOGY
Sandra Sargent, DVM, DACVD EMERGENCY & CRITICAL CARE
Kenton D. Rexford, VMD
Sandra Sargent, DVM, DACVD EMERGENCY & CRITICAL CARE
Christine Guenther, DVM, DACVECC
Kenton D. Rexford, VMD
Christine Rutter, DVM, DACVECC
Christine Guenther, DVM, DACVECC
Sarah J. Deitschel, DVM, DACVECC
Sarah J. Deitschel, DVM, DACVECC
Amy Dickinson, DVM, DACVECC
Amy Dickinson, DVM, DACVECC
Kara Osterbur, DVM, DACVECC
Rebecca A. Miller, DVM
Rebecca A. Miller, DVM
Joey Kallem, DVM
Robin M. Dutra, DVM
Joey Kallem, DVM
Lindsey Rademacher, DVM
Jennifer Wooderson, DVM
Kristen Krisulevicz, DVM
Elissa Allen, VMD
Stephanie V. Nelson, DVM
Brendan Cloonan, DVM
Carol Park, BVSc
Robin M. Dutra, DVM
Lindsey Rademacher, DVM
Victoria Chu, DVM
Kristen Krisulevicz, DVM RADIOLOGY
Michael McGinley, DVM
Jaime LaVelle, DVM
Christopher Warrington, DVM, DACVR
Kelly Weimer, DVM
Tricia Tovar, DVM, Resident in Emergency and Critical Care INTERNAL MEDICINE
Jennifer Daly, DVM, Resident in Emergency and Critical Care
Shaina Mooshian, DVM, Resident in Emergency and Critical Care
Kelsey Sutcliffe, DVM, Resident in Emergency and Critical Care
Sherwood Johnson, DVM, DACVIM
Tracey Peterson, DVM, DACVIM
Todd Carter, DVM, DACVIM
Rocio Ramirez, DVM, Resident in Emergency and Critical Care INTERNAL MEDICINE
