My City Wellness Spring 2021

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Vince Lorraine

F R O M T H E P U B L I S H E R Happy Spring! I don’t think we’ve ever been more ready to get outdoors and enjoy the weather! One of the most enjoyable activities is leashing up our pups and going for a walk. It ’s good for our health, both physical and emotional. Last November, my family lost a beloved member; our 16-year-old dog and “office pup,” Oscar. That loss has left a hole in our hearts that we plan to fill with another furry friend in the future. Of course, we need to keep our pets well, too. The My City team has been wanting to do a special “Pet Wellness” issue – we hope the layouts will give you some warm “feels.” And if your pet needs to see the vet for a wellness check-up, make it happen! As always, we’re also on top of “human” health and national monthly awareness observances including osteoporosis, cataracts and irritable bowel syndrome. We’re happy to include input on these topics and others from several local healthcare professionals. While they are not compensated for their contributions, they obviously appreciate the value of sharing their knowledge with readers of a quality local publication. The award-winning healthcare facilities in Greater Flint are continually attracting top-notch talent to our medical community. In this issue, we introduce Amy Calati, DO, a Medical Hematologist/Oncologist who recently joined the staff of Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute. I want to thank Paul Kocheril,MD and Melissa Farney of GHCI for taking the time to help us profile a cutting edge breast cancer treatment, AccuBoost. GHCI is the only facility in Michigan to offer this therapy. Be sure to check it out on p.44. Finally, I’m proud to have the opportunity to publish a tribute to a beloved citizen, Dr. Samuel Dismond, who passed away in February (p.64). His contributions to the Greater Flint healthcare community are too numerous to mention. I had the honor and pleasure of serving with him on the Flint Institute of Music Board of Trustees for over 15 years, and always looked forward to our conversations. He had a passion for helping people and will be missed by all with whom he shared his wealth of wisdom. Thanks for reading, and be well! Vince Lorraine Publisher & Editor in Chief VINCE@MYCITYMAG.COM

E D I T O R I A L MANAGING EDITOR Sherron Barden

A R T & D E S I G N GRAPHIC DESIGNER Brett LaCross

ASSISTANT EDITOR Peter Hinterman

WEB DEVELOPER / GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jonathan Boedecker

STAFF WR ITERS Cheryl Denni son Peter Hinterman

PHOTO EDITOR / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Kayce McClure

CONTR IBUTING WR ITER Joe Hendr icks , DVM Laura B. Jamrog, DPM Michael Kia, DO Traci J . Kim, MA, CMPE

S A L E S

NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Dan Garman

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Vincent Turchi

O P E R A T I O N S

ACCOUNTING/CI RCULATION & CONTROLLER Kim Davi s

5152 COMMERCE RD. FLINT, MI 48507 810.230.1783 - MYCITYMAG.COM ISSN#1559-3436 is published monthly by My City Magazine, Inc., 5152 Commerce Rd., Flint, MI 48507. Canadian Mail Agreement #41971515. For back issues, inquire for availability. Editorial Correspondence: Address product information and inquiries to: Editorial Department, My City Maga zine, 5152 Commerce Rd., Flint, MI 48507, phone 810.230.1783. To authors, photographers, and people featured in this publication: All materials, articles, reports and photographs in this publication are the property of My City Magazine and cannot be used without written permission. The opinions and conclusions recited herein are those of the respective authors and not of My City Magazine. My City Magazine is not responsible for returning unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other materials. Every effort will be made however, to return rejected manuscripts, etc., if they are accompanied by suf ficient first-class postage, but the publisher will not be responsible for any loss of such material. Copyright © 2021. All rights reserved. | Printed in U.S.A.

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Spring 2021

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT: PET WELLNESS 10 The Positive Effects of the Human-Animal Bond 14 What’s Wrong with Scooby? Top 10 Pet Afflictions 18 Fleas & Ticks Our Summertime Villains 20 Check Those Choppers! 22 Caring for Paws & Claws

26 Dinner Time!

Feeding your Pooch a Healthy Diet

28 None for You, Farfel! Foods to Avoid 32 Fatal Flowers 12 Poisonous Plants 36 Do You Need Pet Health Insurance? 40 Remembered Forever Memorializing Our Lost Friends

Contents Volume 6 Issue 3

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THE HUMAN ANIMAL 48 Obesity & IBS 50 Are Cataracts Clouding Your Vision? 52 Plantar Fasciitis Very Common, Very Treatable 54 The Facts on Osteoporosis

LOCAL CONNECTION 44 Taking the Fight to Breast Cancer Accuboost at Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute 46 Practitioner Profile Amy Calati, DO 58 Healthcare Community News

ADVERTORIAL

BY KATHERINE NEGELE

H ernias account for more than 1 million surgeries in the U.S. each year.Although they occur in adults and children alike, men over 40 are most susceptible—men have about a 25% lifetime risk of developing one, whereas women have less than a 5% risk. A hernia forms when tissue or an organ, often the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the surrounding tissue or muscle, typically the abdominal wall.Weak spots may be present at birth or develop over time due to risk factors, like smoking, persistent coughing, obesity, straining during bowel movements and overexertion. Hernias aren’t always dangerous,but they can cause pain or even progress to an emergency situation if left untreated.When ignored too long,a hernia could become stuck in the abdominal wall, cutting off the intestine’s blood supply.Telltale signs of a hernia are pain or tenderness in the groin,a small bulge that can be pushed back in and is more visible when straining or coughing,and problems eating or having bowel movements. However,up to a third of patients experience no pain at all.Even then, reviewing treatment options shouldn’t be postponed. It’s a common misconception that nothing has to be done if a hernia isn’t causing pain.As Dr. Kristoffer Wong,DO, FACOS, explains, “That can lead to problems because usually hernias get bigger over time and the next thing you know, what would’ve been a simple hernia repair with a quicker recovery ends up being a large hernia repair, with more downtime,more time off from work and more recovery.The key is to get you back to 100% as soon as possible.” Not all hernias require surgery,but they also won’t go away on their own. Speaking with an expert will let you know your options.At Hurley’s Hernia

Center—the region’s ONLYHernia Center of Excellence—our board certified physicians work with each patient to determine the best treatment method for them.For some, that’s surgery,while for others, the watchful waiting approachmay work.However, since 70–80%of such patients end up requiring surgery within 10 years,Hurley’s hernia specialists provide patient education to help you weigh your options. This personalized approach extends to the type of surgery patients can elect.As a Hernia Center of Excellence,Hurley’s surgeons are able to tackle even the trickiest hernia repairs. But that doesn’t mean they don’t see plenty of standard, run-of-the-mill hernias.Hurley’s advanced treatment options, including minimally invasive robotic or laparoscopic procedures, are safe and fully effective. Leo Mercer, MD, FACS, notes, “The Hurley Hernia Center of Excellence offers a comprehensive approach to hernias and that means choosing the right repair for the patient so they can get back to work and play.” Patients find comfort in knowing that at Hurley’s Hernia Center of Excellence, surgeons skillfully performhernia repairs all the time— hundreds each year, in fact.While general surgeons elsewhere can operate on hernias, they simply don’t see as many—or as complex—hernias as specialists at aHernia Center of Excellence.At Hurley’s Hernia Center of Excellence,you can rest assured that nomatter how routine or complex your procedure is,your surgeon has performed hundreds just like it,with excellent outcomes and rapid recoveries. When it comes to hernias, trust the experts at the region’s ONLY Hernia Center of Excellence: Hurley’s Hernia Center. Call (810) 262-6555 to schedule an appointment today. x

Wellness

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Meow, woof and welcome to the My City Magazine Pet Wellness issue, dedicated to helping our little friends live long, healthy and full lives. Our pets are a big part of our families and we do our best to keep themwell. This issue is chock full of tips and tidbits to do just that. From foods and plants to avoid, to common problems and the importance of the human-animal bond, we have stories we hope will increase your confidence as caregiver and parent. Right Meow, rest assured that, in your capable hands, your furry-kins will live a long and healthy life. x LET’S TALK ABOUT PETS, FUR-BABY!

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THE HUMAN-ANIMAL BOND AND THE WELLNESS IT CREATES FOR BOTH PET & OWNER

BY JOE HENDRICKS, DVM

O ne of the great veterinary medicine has been to witness the wonderful mystery of the human-animal bond. From the time we decided to invite animals into our lives and homes, we humans have attached our emotions to our furry companions, and they, in turn, attach their emotions right back to us. This heartfelt connection with our pets creates a bond that has both physical and psychological implications for both parties. Dogs and cats hold special places in this connection, as they usually inhabit our most intimate living spaces. We bring our pets into our living rooms, dens, kitchens, bedrooms and indeed, our beds. Dog and cat owners spend a great deal of their day with their pets. We walk, play with, groom, feed and train our pets. They take up a lot of the bandwidth of our minds as we think and talk about how enamored of pleasures of my 40-year career in

companionship to an otherwise lonely process. The mere act of walking our dogs daily is of great benefit in numerous ways. Dogs and cats are social animals and although they may express their need for companionship and belonging in different ways, both species thrive in the presence of a strong human bond. A pet’s psychological wellbeing depends to a large degree on the strength and health of the bond it has built with its owner. Psychological health so often translates into physical health; so, the way we nourish and develop our mutual bond affects the wellness of our pets.

them we are. Many of our conversations revolve around our relationships with our pets. The bond this creates affects almost every aspect of our lives and the lives of our animal companions. Emotions that we and our pets feel surrounding this bond affects the wellbeing of both parties involved. Medical studies have shown that a relationship with a pet can lower blood pressure, reduce heart disease and lengthen life expectancy. Pets have a positive effect on mental health stability. When a person is recovering

from clinical depression, adopting a cat or dog can alleviate stress and bring

→ PETS PROVIDE SO MUCH EMOTION AND AFFECTION, AS WE DO THE SAME FOR THEM, IT IS EASY TO SEE HOW THIS RELATIONSHIP ADDS TO THEWELLBEING OF ALL PARTIES.

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HOWCANWE BE THE BEST OWNERS ÇA 9ÝÇAӳ9ĩŽ¸AKĄČ ŚŽě‰ ÝĩĄ ǎà ¸ :ÝÃĀ ǎÝÇČӞ ŽÇřKČě ě‰K ěŽÃKӝ It is obvious that no relationship can flourish without an investment of time and attention. We adopt a kitten or puppy for the kids, but we must brace ourselves for a great deal of our own time spent with our new family mem ber. Nurturing, training, social izing and bonding take time. KŤKĄ:ŽČKӝ A big part of time spent with a dog or cat is making sure they get enough exercise in the form of leash-walking, play and obedience training. ěĄ ŽÇŽÇ{ӝ Nothing bonds an owner and pet like obedience work. Support can be found for obedience training through local training clubs and inde pendent trainers. Also, your veterinarian will be able to recommend reliable books and online resources. Obedience training enriches the bond you have with your pet by provid ing the rules, boundaries and limitations that bring security and confidence for both you and your pet.

Ą‰ťě‰Ãӗ ĄÝĩěŽÇK ÇA ĀĄKAŽ:ě 9Ž¸Žěťӝ Pets will bond best and benefit most when the owner they are bond ing with provides a stable, pre dictable environment. A rhythm to the day means meals are at a set time, exercise and rest times are predictable. Companionship is consistent, but alone time is also allowed and encouraged. Veterinarians see dogs and cats with anxiety disorders every day of practice. Many of these cases are a result of an unhealthy human-animal bond. Healthy bonding starts very early in life and is cemented through the first three years of life. Without this foundational bonding and the security it brings, behavior disorders such as poor potty training, separation anxiety, and even aggression can result.

In the best case scenario, the love, joy and serenity that a pet brings to a household is underpinned by a deep, rich bond between pet and owner. This emotional connection has enormous mind and body benefits for both parties. Pets provide so much emotion and affection, as we do the same for them, it is easy to see how this relationship adds to the wellbeing of all involved. x

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Born and raised in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Joe attended Uni versity of California – Irvine and University of California – Davis prior to entering UC Davis’ School of

Veterinary Medicine. After graduating from Veterinary School in 1982, Dr. Joe moved to Owosso, MI with his wife, Su san (also an animal practitioner), where he worked in a mixed animal practice for seven years. In 1990, Dr. Joe and Dr. Sue opened Briarwood Veterinary Hospital in Grand Blanc.

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sign is the kind of breath that can peel wallpaper and shrivel flow ers within a ten-foot radius. Few dogs show obvious signs, howev er, and it is up to the dog’s family and vet to diagnose it. Treatment includes tooth extraction, antibi otics and deeper surgery. ȏ 9VMREV] 8VEGX .RJIGXMSR For a dog, this can happen anywhere and at almost any time. If your pet seems to be straining to urinate or whin ing when it does, it’s past time to visit the vet. A UTI is char acterized by a frequent need to urinate, discomfort or pain doing so or blood in the urine. The situation can be very serious if a bladder stone or other debris blocks the entrance to the blad der. A UTI is an urgent situation and should be treated as such. Dogs are living longer now than ever before and with age comes complications, the most common of which is arthritis. The more ongoing wear and tear a dog’s joints have experienced (and its weight) can contribute to development of this condi tion. Arthritis is recognized by your pet’s reluctance to jump or play, limping, lagging be hind on walks, yelping when touched, trouble getting up off the ground, or a change in per sonality. The good news is that veterinary medicine has uncov ered a plethora of remedies from medications to laser therapies. The best way to stave off arthritis is to keep your dog active and control their body weight. t ȍ &VXLVMXMW

WHAT’SWRONG WITH SCOOBY? BY PETER HINTERMAN

So, you’ve decided to wel come a new kitten or puppy into your family. Well, congratulations! May all the best snuggles and love come your way. Having a pet is a wonderful experience for everyone involved: it teaches patience, responsibil ity and especially, how to care for another living being. You can bet that little guy/gal will get into some trouble down the line that will put their health in ques tion. So, what do you look for? How do you know when your pet is suffering from a particular ailment and what are the most common maladies to expect? Here are the Top 5 most common ailments for cats and dogs. CANINE COMPLICATIONS Ȧ *EV .RJIGXMSR One of the most common problems that Scooby will face throughout his life will be an ear infection. It can be very painful and, if not treated appropri ately, could lead to surgery. The biggest cause is allergies, which causes them to pop up seasonal ly, year after year (if the problem persists year-round, it could be a food allergy). Symptoms include

a stinky odor coming from the dog’s ears, redness, brown or black discharge/debris and excessive itching. Treatment could include antibiotics, diet change, medications or surgery. When Admiral Snuffykins won’t stop itching or gnawing his skin to the point of irrita tion and bleeding, it is most likely caused by an allergy. Skin allergies are usually seasonal and happen most in the spring and summer. This malady can not be cured – only controlled through allergen identification and avoidance, administering medications and improving skin health. Symptoms of a possible skin allergy include excessive paw licking, scooting, scratching, chewing, hair loss or bleeding due to scratching. face but vile breath, it may indicate dental disease. It is ex tremely common and estimated that nearly 80% of dogs over the age of three have some form of dental disease. Examples include a broken tooth, gum disease or tooth root infection. A tell-tale ȶ OMR &PPIVK] ȴ )IRXEP )MWIEWI If Lady Macbark has a cute

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This disease most common ly happens in older cats. It is caused by the overproduction of the thyroid hormone which can affect other body systems, specifically the heart. Symp toms are subtle at first but grow over time. These include weight loss despite an insa tiable appetite, increased thirst, restlessness/hyperactivity, ag gression, difficulty breathing, depression, matted or greasy hair, vomiting and diarrhea. Treatment includes a change in diet, medications, surgery or radioactive iodine therapy. Today, more and more cats are developing diabetes mostly due to poor diet and increased weight. Diabetes is characterized by the body’s inability to pro duce enough insulin to balance blood sugar levels. If left un treated, it can cause weight loss, vomiting, dehydration, severe depression, coma and death. Treatment can be a simple change in diet or insulin therapy and insulin shots. Diabetes in ȏ )MEFIXIW 2IPPMXYW

cats cannot be cured but can go into remission with the right diet. The four biggest symptoms are weight loss and an increase in urination, thirst and appetite. Like dogs, dental disease is under-diagnosed in cats. It is es timated that possibly 90% of cats over the age of four have some form of dental disease. Cats with dental disease may exhibit bad breath, tooth discoloration, dif ficulty eating, drooling, pawing at the mouth, red or bleeding gums and weight loss. The three most common dental diseases in cats are gingivitis, periodontitis and tooth resorption. Regular dental treatments at the vet along with brushing your cat’s teeth will help ward off significant problems. If you suspect that your pet may be suffering from any of the common ailments listed, please contact your veterinarian. x ȍ )IRXEP )MWIEWI

FELINE AFFLICTIONS Ȧ 9VMREV] 8VEGX .RJIGXMSR This is the most common malady for cats. If Chairman Meow is crying in the litter box, it could be due to an infection. The UTI can be caused by bac teria in the bladder or urethra, or crystals and stones in the cat’s bladder. Symptoms include frequent urination, urinating outside the litter box, blood in the urine, crying out in pain while urinating and increased licking of the urinary opening. If you think your cat may be suffering from a UTI, call your vet immediately. Depending on severity, it can be treated by antibiotics or surgery. ȶ (LVSRMG 7IREP +EMPYVI Scary, isn’t it? One of the most common ailments for cats is kidney failure. As cats’ lifetimes become longer, chronic disease is more com mon. Chronic renal failure is caused by infections and block ages, advanced dental disease, high blood pressure, thyroid problems and cancer. Treat ment ranges from change in diet to medications and surgery. Symptoms are frequent urina tion, drinking an abnormal amount of water, weight loss and decreased appetite, bloody urine and diarrhea, bad breath with an ammonia-like odor, a dry coat, indifference, a brownish-colored tongue and mouth ulcers.

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FLEAS &TICKS Ýϵϐ Čϵΐΐ̗ϐϥ͜ΐ̗ ř͜ΆΆ˒͜ΔϘ BY JOE HENDRICKS, DVM BRIARWOOD VETERINARY HOSPITAL

We Michiganders slog through our winters hoping for warm spring, summer and fall days. We white-knuckle through the travails of icy roads, snowy days and freezing temperatures with dreams of new life and greener times. And when April does finally arrive, we feel we finally can relax because the warm seasons are here. However, we also come to the realization that along with the season of warm weather comes the season of bugs – those crawling, creeping, flying insects and arachnids of sum mer. And for pet owners, this includes our furry friends’ worst nightmare: fleas and ticks.

Let’s first look at the classic dog and cat parasite, the flea. Fleas have a very misunderstood reputation. Everybody knows about them, but very few of us “get” their lifestyle and life cycle. Start with a gross, blood-sucking adult flea on your dog or cat.That tiny parasite can take a blood meal within seconds of hatching from its cocoon and within 48 hours, can lay thousands of eggs. Those eggs fall from our pets by plain old gravity and depending on temperature and humidity, hatch into even more disgusting larvae (maggots) within a few days. Now, we have these creatures living in our carpets and bedding or wherever your pet lays, sleeps or hangs out. From there, the larvae feed on the feces of the adult fleas which has also fallen from your dog or cat (this flea poop is

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the black “flea dirt” we see on our pets when they have fleas). Eventually, just like a butterfly, the larvae spin a cocoon and become tiny, encrusted, impossible-to-kill packets incubating an adult flea. When this process is complete, vibration and the carbon dioxide emanating from our pets’ bodies stimulate the baby flea to emerge from the cocoon and immediately take up residence in the animal’s protective fur and skin. This life cycle breakdown explains some of the com mon misconceptions and myths surrounding fleas: Adult fleas do not live separated from their host for any length of time. Once on the animal, unless forced off with a flea comb or a paw-scratch, the tenacious flea stays put. The wonderful news is that these days, we have great products to combat and basically eliminate fleas from our pets and our lives. These products are not your grandfather’s toxic flea powder or collars. No longer do we need to fill our homes with horrible fog gers and sprays. Now, safe and super-effective once-a month or every-three-month oral products are avail able to prevent and/or eliminate fleas. At Briarwood Veterinary Hospital, we recommend year-round flea and tick protection because the products we have are so safe for our pets and for us, so effective, and because we are seeing fleas and ticks even in cold weather. Flea and tick prevention is crucial, not just because of the annoyance but also because fleas can carry some nasty diseases, including cat scratch fever. Ticks, of course, carry (among others) Lyme disease. Ticks are a multi-host parasite and there are many species in our area right now.The main feature of the dog/cat tick interface is that ticks tend to be in leafy, wooded areas (although we’ve seen them come from basic, suburban lawns) and are silent assassins. When ticks at tach to feed, they

tiny and then as they feed, engorge to a gross, bloated, egg-filled, three millimeter diameter size. Once found, a

tick should be removed by a veterinar

ian with a “tick key.”We do not recommend removing a tick with your fingers, not

because it will leave its head behind, they don’t (ticks like their heads), but because if a tick is full of Lyme disease bacteria, you could be exposed. If you do find and remove, or have a vet remove a tick from your dog, we recommend testing for Lyme disease with a simple, in-clinic test done six weeks post-exposure. At Briarwood, we recommend testing every dog every year for Lyme disease as part of our routine yearly screen for heartworm disease. But again, it is so much better to prevent. And again, our new products to prevent ticks, and therefore Lyme disease, are very safe and effective.There is just no reason in the year 2021 that any pet or household should suffer an infestation of ticks or fleas or the diseases they carry. So, if you have a four-legged fur child or two, or three, or more at home and you want to keep the home and those cherished pets free of fleas and ticks, contact your local flea and tick control expert: your veterinarian. The landscape for parasite prevention has never been safer or more effective than the present. Your pets will thank you! x

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inject a local an esthetic that cuts any itch a pet might feel. So, ticks are found by inspection, close inspection. They start off

Born and raised in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Joe attended University of California – Irvine and University of California – Davis prior to entering UC Davis’ School of Vet erinary Medicine. After graduating from Veterinary School in 1982, Dr. Joe moved

to Owosso, MI with his wife, Susan (also an animal prac titioner), where he worked in a mixed animal practice for seven years. In 1990, Dr. Joe and Dr. Sue opened Briarwood Veterinary Hospital in Grand Blanc.

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CHECK THOSE CHOPPERS! BY CHERYL DENNISON

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A ccording to the overall wellbeing. Their teeth and gums should be checked at least once a year by a veterinarian to look for early signs of a problem and maintain good mouth health. The American Animal Hospi tal Association (AAHA) Guide lines for Pet Owners explains that dental disease is a painful condi tion that occurs when bacteria, plaque and tartar build up on the teeth and get trapped beneath the gum line. Bacteria can be absorbed into the bloodstream and wreak havoc on other major organs throughout the body. American Veterinary Medical Associa tion (AVMA), dental health is a very impor tant part of your pet’s

By age three, most dogs and cats have some degree of dental disease. The early signs include bad breath, yellow tartar buildup on the teeth, and red and swol len gums. Early detection is vital. AAHA recommends that a dental evaluation be part of your pet’s annual preventive care exam. X-rays are essential for di agnosing dental disease. After

accurate diagnosis and decrease the chance of complications. Anesthesia is much safer than you may think. Before anesthe sia, your pet will be carefully screened with bloodwork and other tests to ensure she is free from underlying disease. During the dental procedure, a trained professional will be dedicated to continuously monitoring, record

By age three, most dogs and cats have some degree of dental disease. Early detection is vital.

examining x-ray images of cats and dogs with teeth that appeared normal to the naked eye, veteri narians found 27.8% of dogs and 41.7% of cats had diseased teeth. Animals don’t like to hold still for x-rays and sharp instruments are used to clean the tartar from their teeth. Anesthesia makes dental evaluation and treatment safer and less stressful for your pet. When your pet is anesthe tized during the procedure, the veterinarian can make a more

ing vital signs and communicat ing findings to the veterinarian. Removing plaque from teeth be neath the gum line is vital. Bacteria thrive under the gum line, causing infections deep in the tooth root and jaw that can spread throughout the body and affect other organs, such as the heart and kidneys. Daily toothbrushing will pro mote good oral health and prevent potentially expensive surgeries for your pet down the road. Accumu lation of plaque and tartar can be prevented with a special dental diet – food specifically designed to help promote oral health. x Sources: aaha.org, avma.org

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Caring for Paws & Claws BY CHERYL DENNISON

Proper nail trim ming is an essential part of dog groom ing, according to Tonya Ger row, owner of Tonya’s Tender Touch Dog Grooming, a long time Fenton business. “It’s very important,” she says, adding that she has provided grooming for dogs and cats since 1992. The need for trimming a cat’s claws depends on whether it is an outdoor or indoor pet, says the groomer. For an indoor cat, a scratching post allows daily self-maintenance. If your cat tends to sharpen its claws everywhere in your house, you may want to trim them so they will cause less damage.

A professional groom should include nail and claw clipping, but pet owners can easily do it at home. “I’m a groomer, so I am very accustomed to nail clipping,” Gerrow says, “but sometimes a pet owner doesn’t know how much of the nail needs to be trimmed. If the pet’s nails are white, it is easy to locate the quick, which is where you stop trimming.” When a dog’s nails are black, it’s more difficult to lo cate the quick. Through her ex perience, Gerrow has discovered that you will see a ring in the nail while trimming it, a little at a time. “That ring lets you know the quick is just beyond

that,” she says. “If you cut beyond that, it will be painful.” The same process also applies when trimming a cat’s claws. Gerrow recommends us ing an ergonomic clipper that can be purchased online or at your local pet store. She also recommends a Dremel Nail trimming can cause pets anxiety, so it is important to start when they are young, to help them become accustomed to the process. dog nail grinder. “It grinds and smoothes the nail after the clipping, taking off the sharp edges,” she reports. “It’s an additional expense, but people like the result.” Nail trimming can cause pets anxiety, so it is important to start when they are young, to help them become accus tomed to the process, Gerrow advises. She also advises hav ing it done every six weeks, as nails that are too long can put pressure on the cuticles and make walking painful. x

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BY CHERYL DENNISON

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It’s no secret – to keep your pup happy and healthy, good nutrition is of utmost importance. What should your canine eat to stay healthy? Commercial Dog Food Designed to meet all of a dog’s nutritional needs, most of the leading commercial products contain meat, grains, vegetables, fruit and vitamins. The American College of Veterinary Nutrition says commercial foods are safe and healthful options for feeding pets. Wet or Dry? When it comes towet or dry food, both can have benefits. Dry food is believed to be better for a dog’s teeth.The wet varieties providemoremoisture, which is especially helpful for dogs that don’t drink a lot of water. Most vets say it’s really a toss-up – both are nutritionally sound. HowMuch? When it comes to feeding, a pet owner’s most common mistake is overfeeding. It’s important to feed the right amount and right type of food to keep the animal at a healthy weight, as extra pounds can lead to many problems – just as they can for humans. Ask your vet for recommendations. Table Scraps Although there are some foods from your plate that you can share with a dog, you’ve got to be careful. The FDA warns that chocolate, fatty foods, chicken bones, moldy foods, salty snacks and raw meat are not good for pets. In addition, consuming grapes, raisins and onions can make your dog very sick. Water When it comes to your dog’s nutrition, water is even more important than protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Your dog’s body will naturally lose water throughout the day. Make sure your dog drinks at least one ounce of water daily for each pound they weigh, and keep that bowl full during the warmer months.

What About Grain-Free? Many of the major pet food brands have been advertising their grain-free formulas as being nutritionally better for dogs. But, why? As a species, dogs can be allergic to a variety of nutritional elements, such as dairy, wheat and soy. Grain is one major allergen that has recently gotten significant media attention. While every pet has unique nutritional needs, all pets need vitamins and healthy substances found primarily in grain. Research shows that grain free isn’t necessarily better for pets, except for the 10% of pets who have a grain allergy or intolerance. When we look at the evolution of our beloved companions, it is important to note that when dogs were restricted to the wild, their diet consisted almost entirely of meat and small amounts of plant/vegetable matter ingested by the prey they caught. This was plenty to sustain them and their lifestyle at the time, and it is more than enough today. However, if you don’t seek out the best grain-free dog food, your pet may be consuming a diet with many added grain ingredients. While these grains are not harmful to most dogs, some are allergic to them and as a result, they can experience negative side effects. Grains typically used in dog foods: R5 Wheat R5 Corn R5 Rice R5 Soy R5 Oats R5 Barley R5 Rye Are Grain-Free Dog Foods Carb-Free? The answer: not necessarily. Some food producers substitute other carbohydrate sources, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, lentils, peas or quinoa. This can make some grain-free dog food recipes equal to or higher in carbs than those that contain grains.

Symptoms of Grain Allergies t Itchy skin t Dry, flaky skin t Hair loss t Bumps/rash t Chronic ear infections t Obsessive licking/chewing of feet

t Inflamed, red paw pads t Gastrointestinal upset

There’s no set formula for how often you feed your dog or what you put in their bowl, according to petswebmd.com. Nutritional requirements for dogs vary by breed, size, age and health. Ask your vet to recommend the best dietary plan for your furry friend. x

SOURCE: PETS.WEBMD.COM/DOGS/GUIDE/BEST-DOG-FOOD-CHOICES#1

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None for You, Farfel! People Food to Avoid Giving Your Pets

A lthough we consider our the healthy food we consume can be harmful, even fatal to our four-legged friends. We must be careful what table scraps we give them. Sure, they are awfully adorable (and whiny) when they beg; but they don’t know what they are begging for and it is up to us to keep them safe. pets family members, we are biologically different. Some of

Here are 12 common human foods to avoid giving your furry little buddy:

1. Alcohol I think everyone has heard someone ask this question: “what will happen if I get my cat/dog/ferret drunk?”The answer is a lot…and none of it is good. For cats and dogs, alcohol ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, disorientation, respiratory distress, coma and death. Alcohol can affect their liver the same way it does a human’s, but much faster due to the animals’ size. Under no circumstances should any pet be given alcohol and if your pet does ingest, contact your veterinarian immediately. 2. Avocado Every hipster’s favorite, the avocado can be harmful to cats and dogs. For birds, rabbits, donkeys and horses, eating avocado can be fatal, causing the head and neck to swell in horses and donkeys, and cardiovascular damage in rabbits and birds.

3. Bones Most people know to avoid giving a dog a real bone to chew, but more often than not, the warning is disregarded. When a bone splinters during chewing, it can become lodged in or puncture your pet’s digestive tract. Bones can also damage teeth. It may seem like a natural thing to do, but it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid giving your pup leftover bones. 4. Caffeine Muffin doesn’t need a cup of Joe! The amount of caffeine in your morning drink is enough to cause severe issues and if your pet consumes coffee grounds or a black tea bag, call your veterinarian immediately. Caffeine over-consumption can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, increased heart rate, seizures or death.

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5. Chocolate I think most of us know that chocolate is hazardous to many animals. It contains substances called methylxanthines that if ingested by your pet will cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, heart problems, seizures, coma and death. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is, with white chocolate having the smallest amount of methylxanthines and baking chocolate the highest. 6. Dairy Products Although not necessarily fatal, except in extreme circumstances, eating dairy will cause our pets digestive discomfort. They do not have a significant amount of the enzyme lactase in their intestines to break down the lactose in milk. It has always been believed that cats want nothing more than a nice bowl of milk. Resist the myth! You’re only causing our feline friend future discomfort.

7. Grapes & Raisins One of the great mysteries in pet health is the hugely negative effect of consuming grapes and raisins. Science has not yet identified the reason, but eating a seemingly harmless grape can cause rapid kidney failure in both cats and dogs. Within 24 hours, a cat will experience abdominal pain, reduced appetite and decreased urination, leading to complete kidney failure. Do not keep grapes or raisins in a place where your pet can access them. 8. Macadamia Nuts For most of our pets, nuts are a problem, in general. The high fat content can potentially cause pancreatitis, but for dogs specifically, eating macadamia nuts is extremely dangerous. Dogs will experience weakness, depression, tremors, vomiting and hyperthermia. 9. Onions & Garlic These two are very common to our diets and very harmful to our pets. Cats are the most susceptible, but dogs can still be affected. Onions, garlic, chives and shallots contain thiosulphate, a compound that destroys red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia. Onion soup mix and garlic powder are also dangerous. Be very careful when feeding your kitty or pup table scraps – it is easy to forget that you included onions or garlic in your dish. 10. “People” Medicine Just because it works for you, does not mean it works for Mr. Cuddles. Common pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be fatal if ingested. Giving any “human medicine” to your pets is tantamount to poisoning them. Never give your animal anything over-the-counter, unless explicitly directed to by your vet.

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Some of the healthy food we feed ourselves can be harmful, even fatal to our four legged friends.

11. Raw Food You shouldn’t feed your pet raw meat or eggs for the same reason you shouldn’t eat them. Consuming uncooked proteins can lead to salmonella or E. coli poisoning, and possibly parasites. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin that can lead to skin and coat problems. If you would like to provide a “more natural” diet for your pet, make sure to cook the meat before feeding it. 12. Xylitol This additive is used as a sweetener in gums, candy, toothpaste and baked goods. In large amounts, it can cause an overwhelming release of insulin in most species, leading to hypoglycemia and liver failure. Initial symptoms of toxicity include vomiting, lethargy, loss of coordination and seizures. Liver failure can occur in only a few days. No candy for Chewy! x

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Fatal Flowers

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Spring is the time for flowers and plants. As soon as April begins, many of us flock to our local garden shops and nurseries, looking for a little bit of potted beauty to spice up our indoor and outdoor environments. This is all fine and fun; but if you have pets hanging around, you may want to be a little more discerning about the plants you choose to showcase. Some can be harmful if ingested by our four-legged friends, causing sickness and even death .

Keep Pets Away from these 12 Common Flowers & Plants BY PETER HINTERMAN

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2. Autumn Crocus

Of the two crocus varieties (spring and autumn), the autumn crocus is more dangerous. While the spring crocus can cause vom iting and diarrhea; the autumn crocus will cause gastrointesti nal bleeding, liver and kidney damage, and respiratory failure in both dogs and cats. If your animal ingests either of the two crocus varieties, a trip to the vet should be made in short order. 3. Azalea & Rhododendron Chosen for their colorful punch, azaleas and rhododen drons are a common addition to flower gardens and can have a negative effect on pets. Ingesting just a few leaves causes vomiting, diarrhea and drooling. If the ani mal does not receive immediate medical help they could fall into a coma and possibly die. 4. Baby’s Breath Another common addi tion to bouquets and floral arrangements, baby’s breath, if ingested by dogs, will cause severe bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. Avoid introducing it into your home, if possible. 5. Begonia Another dog irritant, the begonia may not be as dangerous as some of the others on this list. Still, we don’t want our doggo to experience mouth swelling and inflammation, drooling or vomit ing. Be careful keeping them at ground level and if you have your begonias in a hanging basket, make sure that it is high enough that the dog won’t get to it. p

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These 12 common plants are poisonous to pets: 1. Aloe Vera A very common household plant, aloe vera is something your dog needs to avoid. Ingesting any part of the plant can cause vomit ing, diarrhea, tremors and central nervous system depression.

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6.

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NORMAN CHAN / STOCK.ADOBE.COM

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diarrhea and excessive drooling and you should make a trip to your veterinarian for monitoring. /LO\ Another flower that is ex tremely common for indoor and outdoor decoration, the many different varieties of lilies have varying toxicities for cats. The most dangerous and potentially fatal are true lilies that include tiger, day, Asiatic, Easter and Japanese Show. Even the small est amount ingested will cause severe kidney failure. If you believe that your cat has eaten any part of a lily, rush her to the emergency veterinarian. /LO\ RI WKH 9DOOH\ Another well-loved plant, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, severe cardiac arrhythmias

Our springtime friend is extremely harmful to our pets if ingested. Eating any part of the plant will produce vomiting, di arrhea, abdominal pain, cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory de pression. Crystals located in the bulb of the plant will addition ally cause severe tissue irrita tion and excessive drooling. +ROO\ This common Christmas adornment should be kept far away from Fido. Ingestion of the plant will cause persistent vomiting and diarrhea. ΖY\ Ingesting ivy of just about any type is harmful to both cats and dogs. Your pet will experience in tense abdominal pain, vomiting,

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and seizures if ingested by your pet. If you have a curious, furry friend running around, think twice about adding the flower to your garden 7RPDWR It’s in everyone’s garden and it can harm man’s best friend. While the fruit of the tomato plant is fine (and tasty), eat

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ing the leaves and stems can cause a dog weakness, drowsi ness, dilated pupils, confusion, slow heart rate and abdominal distress. Stay away from the garden while playing fetch. 12. Tulip & Hyacinth If your puppy is digging around the tulips or hyacinths, you will need to break them

of the habit. The bulbs of both plants are extremely poisonous to dogs. Ingestion will cause gas trointestinal irritation, drooling, loss of appetite, a breakdown of the central nervous system, car diac abnormalities, convulsions and death. There is no specific antidote for the poison, but a veterinarian can help an animal through the symptoms. x

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Pet Health Insurance

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W hen Sam went to the vet hear: her precious kitty was sick and had a tumor on her stomach. The vet provided a list of the different treatment options available to help April get well, but they were all very expensive and Sam just couldn’t afford even one. If Sam had purchased pet health insurance, the outcome would have been much better. Everyone’s health is unpredictable, including that of our fur babies. But is pet health insurance really worth it? Expensive veterinary treatment can be the difference between life and death. From food and toys, to grooming products and OTC medication, a study published by CNBC showed that owning a pet is very costly. Over their average life span and depending on pet type, the average cost can range between $20,000 to $40,000. Add to that an average vet check up charge of $250 or the dreaded emergency visit, and you could find yourself making hard decisions. Pet health insurance coverage would help pay for that emergency visit, leaving you responsible for a small deductible. Typically, the standard pet health insurance provider will not cover pre-existing conditions, so it is recommended that you secure your policy when your pet is healthy. Plus, you will most likely have a waiting period before you can use your insurance (this will vary by provider.) Average wait times are two days for accident claims, 14 days for an illness and six months for a leg injury. → last year with her cat, April, she got terrible news no pet owner ever wants to

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Here are some standard charges covered by most pet health insurance plans: t %JBHOPTUJDT JODMVEFT CMPPE

Here are some charges pet health insurance typically does NOT cover: t 1SF FYJTUJOH DPOEJUJPOT t #JMBUFSBM DPOEJUJPOT DBUBSBDUT IJQ EZTQMBTJB t %FOUBM DBSF t /PO BDDJEFOU PS OPO QIZTJDBM JMMOFTT PCFEJFODF USBJOJOH DMBX USJNNJOH HSPPNJOH t 1SFWFOUBCMF NBMBEJFT t &YQFSJNFOUBM USFBUNFOUT t /PO FOSPMMFE QFUT

UFTUT VSJOBMZTJT 9 SBZT .3*T MBCXPSL $5 TDBOT BOE VMUSBTPVOET t #SPLFO CPOFT t 7FIJDMF BDDJEFOUT t 1PJTPOJOH PS UPYJD GPPET t $BODFS PS EJBCFUFT Bę FS UIF XBJUJOH QFSJPE t )PTQJUBMJ[BUJPO

The key is to plan ahead.

If you are contemplating pet insurance, consider how much your pet means to you and your family. Are they part of the family? How much are you willing to spend to keep them around? Are you willing to go bankrupt? If you find yourself willing to go the distance, then pet insurance is a smart move. Just like our own medical bills, vet bills and exam fees can creep up quickly after an illness or emergency. Cancer treatment that includes chemotherapy can run up to $35,000; even diabetes medication can cost you $1,200 a year. The key is to plan ahead. Pet insurance could save you money in the long run and keep your best friend around far into the future. x

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FOREVER MEMORIALIZING OUR LOST FRIENDS BY PETER HINTERMAN Remembered

When there are no more balls to fetch, mice to chase or snuggles to give, when every thing possible has been done to treat a beloved pet’s illness, the time comes when the only thing left to do is say goodbye. Our pets are our family. They grow up with us, comfort us when we are feeling down, re joice with us in good times and love us unconditionally. We become their world and they become a large part of ours. Mourning a pet was once ta boo, the realm of a weak heart; but, today, we understand that it is the opposite. Grief belongs to those who love fiercely. When a pet has crossed the Rainbow Bridge, it is okay and normal to grieve … and to remember them in your own special way. Here are ten unique ways to honor Help your animal friend pro vide habitat for nature. Mix your pet’s ashes with concrete to cre ate an environmentally safe reef for water creatures. Did your cat love to watch your fish swim in their tank? Now, they can be a part of the aquatic world. and remember your pet: 1. Aquatic Habitat

tree or wildflower seeds. The urn holds the seeds in the upper section that germinate before the roots grow through the lower compartment that con tains the ashes. Your beloved pet will help to create life for a lovely tree or beautiful flower. 4. Diamond Mirroring the process used to make synthetic diamonds, your pet’s ashes can be infused into a diamond that will last a lifetime and more. After the gem is made, you can have it placed into a necklace, ring or any other type of jewelry. It’s a bit expensive, but the end result is truly special.

2. Art Urn Beautifully constructed ceram ic urns can house the remains of your little friend. They can be cre ated in a bevy of styles and even commissioned for something uniquely yours. Place the urn at a prominent spot in your home as a centerpiece with honors. 3. Biodegradable Urn Most memorial companies offer this product, complete with

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