Now Available: Nutri Source Pet Foods

On Tuesday, September 22nd

Nutri Source Pet Products

will be available at

Haute Dogs & Glitzy Paws

1. Adult Dog Chicken and Rice Formula provides super premium nutrition in a scientifically formulated easy to digest food. Real chicken is the number one ingredient in NutriSource® Adult dog food. Chicken is a source of high quality protein to help maintain muscle mass and strength. Chicken has a rich, wholesome taste that dogs love. NutriSource® combines chicken, rice, and carefully selected ingredients in the precise blend to balance all essential nutrients necessary for optimum health, well being and long life. Readily available nutrients in chicken and rice go to work on the inside, resulting in less waste.Protein - 26%Fat - 16%

2. Large Breed Adult Chicken and Rice provides super premium nutrition in a scientifically formulated easy to digest food designed for large and giant breeds. Real chicken is the number one ingredient in NutriSource® Large Breed Adult dog food. Chicken is a source of high quality protein to help maintain muscle mass and strength in large dogs. Chicken has a rich, wholesome taste large dogs love. The larger kibble size satisfies large and giant breeds appetite for chewing and taste. Readily available nutrients in NutriSource® Large Breed Adult dog food go to work on the inside resulting in less waste. Protein - 23%Fat - 14%

3. NutriSource® Weight Management Chicken & Rice Formula provides super premium nutrition in a scientifically formulated easy to digest food designed for maintenance of less active adult dogs that may tend to gain weight and also for overweight dogs. Chicken is the #1 ingredient in NutriSource® Weight Management dog food. Chicken is a source of high quality protein and has a rich, wholesome taste dogs love. NutriSource® Weight Management formula contains 13% fewer calories and 25% less fat than NutriSource® Adult. Readily available nutrients in NutriSource® Weight Management dog food go to work on the inside resulting in less waste.Protein - 21%Fat - 9%

4. NutriSource® Large Breed Puppy Chicken and Rice Formula provides super premium nutrition in a scientifically formulated easy-to-digest food designed for puppies of breeds that will mature at more than 50 pounds. This is formulated to provide proper nutrition for balanced muscular and skeletal growth in large and giant breeds avoiding joint problems later in life. NutriSource® Large Breed Puppy contains specially adjusted levels of calcium and phosphorus matched with balanced protein, fat, carbohydrates and calories to supply large breed puppies the nutrition to grow and develop to fullest potential. Feed NutriSource® Large Breed Puppy food to your Large/Giant Breed Puppy from weaning until your dog reaches it's mature weight and size, typically at about 18 months of age. At maturity, we suggest transition to NutriSource® Adult or NutriSource® Large Breed Adult food.Protein - 26%Fat - 14%

5. NutriSource® Small and Medium Breed Puppy Chicken and Rice Formula is ideal for growing small and medium breed puppies (breeds that mature at less than 50 lbs.). NutriSource® Small and Medium Breed Puppy Food contains the higher levels of protein and fat needed by small and medium breed puppies and is formed to smaller, bite size shapes making it easier for small dogs to eat. NutriSource® is made with real chicken and no chicken by-products. NutriSource® combines chicken, rice and carefully selected ingredients in the precise blend to promote balanced growth and optimum health for small and medium breed puppies. NutriSource® Small and Medium Breed Puppy food also supplies complete and balanced nutrition for gestating and lactating females. Feed NutriSource® Small and Medium Breed Puppy food to your Small/Medium Breed Puppy from weaning until your dog reaches it's mature body weight and size, usually at about one year.Protein - 32%Fat - 21%

6. NutriSource® Lamb Meal & Rice Forumula provides super premium nutrition in a scientifically formulated, easy to digest food. NutriSource® uses the finest quality ingredients including New Zealand lamb meal as the primary source of protein and high quality rice as the primary cereal carbohydrate ingredient. NutriSource® Lamb Meal & Rice Formula contains no corn, wheat or soy. By limiting the protein and carbohydrate sources there is less chance of digestive upset.Protein - 22%Fat - 13%

7. Nutrisource® Large Breed Adult Lamb Meal & Rice formula provides superior nutrition in a scientifically formulated, easy to digest food. Nutrisource® uses the finest ingredients including New Zealand lamb meal as the primary source of protein and rice has the primary cereal carbohydrate ingredient to help maintain muscle mass and strength in large dogs. The large breed kibble size satisfies large and giant breeds appetite for chewing and taste. Nutrisource® Large Breed Adult Lamb Meal and Rice contains no corn, wheat or soy. By limiting the amount of protein and carbohydrate sources there is less chance of digestive upset.Protein - 23%Fat - 14%

8. NutriSource® Senior Dog Chicken and Rice Formula provides super premium nutrition in a scientifically formulated easy to digest food specially designed for dogs 7 years of age and older. Real chicken is the number one ingredient in NutriSource®. Chicken is a source of high quality protein; chicken has a rich, wholesome taste dogs love. NutriSource® combines chicken, rice and carefully selected ingredients in the precise blend to balance all essential nutrients necessary for optimum health, well being and long life. Readily available nutrients in chicken and rice go to work on the inside, resulting in less waste. Protein - 26%Fat - 10%

9. NutriSource® Performance Chicken & Rice Formula dog food provides super premium nutrition for hard working, pregnant and nursing dogs as well as dogs that need to gain weight. Real Chicken, the number one ingredient in NutriSource® Performance, provides high quality protein to maintain muscle mass and strength in hard working dogs. High quality fats and carbohydrates provide the fuel to perform to the highest level. Chicken provides the flavor to encourage ready acceptance and eating under stress. The high nutrient density in NutriSource® Performance helps hard working dogs maintain energy and endurance.Protein - 30%Fat - 20%

10. NutriSource® Super Performance Chicken and Rice Formula provides super premium nutrition in a scientifically formulated easy to digest food. Incorporating the latest scientific advances for canine athletes, NutriSource® Super Performance combines chicken, rice and carefully selected ingredients in the precise blend for highly active, athletic dogs. NutriSource® gives athletic dogs the edge they need to achieve and maintain top performance even through the most adverse conditions. Readily available nutrients in chicken and rice go to work on the inside, resulting in less waste. Protein - 32%Fat - 21%

11. NutriSource® Adult Complete Cat Food for all life stages is specially formulated to promote urinary tract health. Combining a unique hard crunchy shape with ingredients that contain chlorophll works to clean cats teeth and freshen breath. Natural fiber ingredients work to relieve hairballs. High levels of linoleic and linolenic acid plus highly bio-available zinc nourish healthy skin and coat to reduce shedding.Protein - 33%Fat - 19%

More Than 500 Dogs Rescued from Texas Puppy Mill

On Tuesday, August 13th, 2009, the HSUS helped rescue more than 500 dogs and about 15 cats from squalor on a northeastern Texas puppy mill (read the full story).


Five Tips to help you avoid getting a puppy mill bred dog.

1. Consider adoption first when getting a pet. Animal shelters are filled with dogs and cats of all breeds and sizes who need and deserve loving homes. Nationwide, approximately 25 percent of the dogs in shelters are purebreds.
2. Find a responsible breeder and visit their premises in person to see how the parent dogs are living and the conditions in which the puppy was raised. Responsible breeders house their dogs as members of the family and do not keep them confined to cages.
3. Don't be fooled by common claims made by pet stores when pushing their puppies. Good breeders do not sell to pet stores because they want to meet the families who are taking home their puppies.
4. Don't be swayed by a great website or ad; many of the puppy mills The HSUS has raided in recent years hid behind beautiful and deceiving websites promising "family raised" puppies.
5. Avoid the temptation to "rescue" a puppy mill puppy by buying him; your purchase will only help perpetuate a cruel industry and another dog will quickly fill his cage.
   

Reliant Park World Series of Dog Shows; July 16th-19th, 2009

Come visit us at the Reliant Dog show. Haute Dogs & Glitzy Paws will be handing out free treats to our clients as well as having great products. Also, stop by to find out which dogs we have in the show ring.

See ya there!

Take Your Dog to Work Day; June 26th

First celebrated in 1999, Take Your Dog To Work Day was created to celebrate the great companions dogs make and to encourage their adoption from humane societies, animal shelters and breed rescue clubs. This annual event encourages employers to experience the value of pets in their workplace for this one special day to promote pet adoptions.

On June 26, 2009, businesses, animal shelters and pet-care professionals from around the world will work together to better the lives of shelter dogs everywhere. Thousands of businesses will open their doors to employees’ pets on this day in celebration of the great companions dogs make. Pet Sitters International invites your business to join the pack as we celebrate a decade of working dogs!

We are asking every business--great and small--to become a true friend of the canine community by helping Pet Sitters International promote pet adoptions in a positive and proactive way! Explore our site to learn how you can participate, register your business and spread the word.

For more information, please visit TYDTWD

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is an emergency that requires immediate recognition and prompt treatment. Dogs do not tolerate high temperatures as well as humans. They depend upon rapid breathing to exchange warm air for cool air. Accordingly when air temperature is close to body temperature, cooling by rapid breathing is not and efficient process. Dogs with airway disease also have difficulty with excess heat.

Common situations that predispose to overheating or heat stroke in dogs are:
1. Being left in a car in hot weather.
2. Being confined on concrete runs; chained without shade in hot weather.
3. Being of a short-nosed breed, especially a Bulldog or Pug.
4. Being muzzled while put under a dryer (this can happen in a grooming parlor).
5. Suffering from airway disease or any condition that impairs breathing.

Heat stroke begins with rapid, frantic, noisy breathing. The tongue and mucus membranes are bright red, the saliva is thick and tenacious and the dog frequently vomits. Its rectal temperature is high, sometimes over 106 degrees F. The cause of the problem usually is evident by the typical appearance of the dog; it can be confirmed by taking its temperature.

If the condition is allowed to go unchecked, the dog becomes unsteady and staggers, has diarrhea that often is bloody and becomes progressively weaker. Coma and death ensue.

Treatment: Emergency measures must begin at once. Mild cases respond to moving the dog to a cooler surrounding, such as an air-conditioned building or car. If the dog's temperature is over 104 degrees F, or if unsteady on its feet, the dog should be cooled by immersion in a tub of cold water. If this is impossible, hose your dog down with a garden hose. For a temperature over 106 degrees F, or if the dog is near collapse, give a cold water enema. A more rapid temperature drop is imperative. Cool to a rectal temperature of 103 degrees F.

Heat stroke can be associated with swelling of the throat. This aggravates the problem. A cortisone injection by your veterinarian may be required to treat this.

Prevention:
1. Do not expose dogs with airway disease or impaired breathing to prolonged heat.
2. Restrict exercise during the heat of the day in summer.
3. Breed dogs in air-conditioned quarters.
4. Crate a dog only in an open wire cage.
5. Provide shade and cool water to dogs living in outdoor runs.

Come visit us at the Strawberry Fest

36th Annual
Pasadena Strawberry Fest
May 15th, 16th & 17th
Friday 3pm till Midnight
Saturday 10am till Midnight
Sunday 10am till 7pm
at the
Pasadena Fairgrounds
Fairmont Pkwy & Red Bluff
visit www.StrawberryFest.com for more information

Meet the World's Oldest Dog

The world's oldest dog proved she was a real party animal by celebrating her 21st birthday with a big bash and a cake, a Guinness World Records spokesman said today.

New Yorker Chanel is 147 in dog years. She struggles to see, hear and walk, but the off-white Daschund-cross, is still able to enjoy the finer things in life.

Her owners Karl and Denise Shaughnessy from Long Island like to dress her up in little jumpers and sunglasses or 'doggles' to protect her ancient eyes from the sun's glare.

Karl, a retired police officer, said: 'This dog is a real work of art.'
Chanel is recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest living dog after she snatched the title from Bella, a 29-year-old Labrador cross from Britain.

Bella, who was 203 in doggy years, died from a heart attack in her Lincolnshire home in September last year.

Karl's wife, Denice, adopted Chanel from an animal shelter in Virginia when she was just six-weeks-old.

Denice, then 30, was working as a court reporter in the Army. She rescued Chanel for her 12-year-old daughter, but the dog became more fond of Denice.

"Chanel was always very athletic," Denice said, recalling how they used to run three-to-four miles a day together.
Even 21 years later, Denice and Chanel still enjoy walks around their suburbs. But the dachshund now has to be carried and spends most of her time in the Shaughnessy's kitchen.

"We don't have to take her outside to to go and we don't take her out at all in the wintertime," Karl said. "We try to protect her as much as we can." Chanel is starting to look a bit frail, is hard of hearing and fighting a battle with cataracts but her physical impairments are small in comparison to her grand age.#

She celebrated her birthday with a visit to the New York Dog Hotel and Spa where she was joined by some doggy friends.

Chanel's vet Phillip Zangara, of the Roosevelt Animal Hospital in Port Jefferson Station, N.Y said: 'She's the oldest dog we have ever seen.

"She is defying every odd right now. I'm surprised at just about everything about her. She has the body of a six-year-old." Chanel has become slightly crotchety with age and has been known to snap a nip at strangers. But Denice says she still has a fairly calm disposition.

'She doesn't like to be bothered or have her face washed.

'And she doesn't let anybody hold her except me nowadays,' she said.

Denice has thought about the future for her aged pooch. She hopes she will never have to make a decision to put her down/
'I absolutely love her so much, and I am really just hoping that when it is time to go, she just goes in her sleep,' she said.

The oldest dog ever recorded was Bluey, a sheepdog from Australia, who lived to be 29.

Can your pet get Swine Flu?

The following is a message from the ASPCA. Don't worry, pet parents! The recent, rapid outbreak of the H1N1 virus, previously known as swine flu, appears to present little risk of infecting our furry friends. In the past few weeks, only humans have been affected by the new virus, and it's still unknown how the virus will impact other species.

"Currently there's no data demonstrating any risk of dogs and cats contracting this strain of the virus," says Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine at the ASPCA's Bergh Memorial Hospital in New York City. "However, owners of pet pigs, as well as farmers, should monitor their animals' health more closely and take steps to limit transmission from humans to pigs and vice versa."

If you do count a pet pig as your animal companion, please consult with your veterinarian about a Type A influenza vaccine, which is available and recommended for all healthy swine.

Dr. Miranda Spindel, Director of ASPCA Veterinary Outreach, adds: "Swine influenza or swine flu is one of the leading causes of respiratory disease in swine throughout the world. Like most influenza A viruses, swine flu generally causes high levels of illness in pigs, but fatalities are uncommon."

For the latest information about the outbreak and your pet's health, please visit the Center for Disease Control (http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu). If you suspect your pet is ill or if he exhibits any sudden changes in behavior, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

Read the ASPCA's official statement on swine flu.

HB 3180: No More Puppy Mills

Take Action!

Quick Summary: HB 3180, a bill that will require licensing and regulation of large-scale commercial dog and cat breeding operations, is now pending in the Texas Legislature. This bill was written specifically to address the animal cruelty that is inherent in the puppy mill industry and will require that minimum standards of care, treatment and housing be met by puppy mill operators. Important Note: Hobby breeders who keep no more than 10 intact female dogs are exempt from licensing and regulation.

What can you do to help?
Spread the word! To increase the number of people contacting their legislators, please forward this alert to friends and family who love animals. Ask them to go to www.THLN.org, watch the puppy mill video and sign up to receive Action Alerts. A bill summary for HB 3180 is also posted on the site.

Each Action Alert will give you the progress of the bill and the names of legislators to contact to make your voice heard for the animals now suffering in puppy mills. As soon as HB 3180 is scheduled for a committee hearing, you will receive an alert.
This bill must be passed in a committee hearing before it can go to the House of Representatives for a vote. Please don't assume that this will be easy. Puppy mills operate in backwoods areas and in the shadows of our communities, but their owners have a strong lobby force at work to kill this legislation. They are driving paranoia among the hobby breeders who have not read this bill and are not aware that they are exempt from licensing and regulation, as long as they have no more than 10 intact female dogs.

Tell us your story.
Did you buy a puppy you believe may have come from a puppy mill?
Are you concerned about a potential puppy mill in your area?
Are you a shelter or rescue staff person who has assisted in puppy mill related work?
Do you have a question or comment about puppy mills?

Please share your story or question with THLN by clicking here. Please note that we are unable to accept attachments (including photos) at this time.

If you love dogs and cats, this is one of the most important bills you can help pass to protect them from cruelty. More than 700,000 dogs and cats were destroyed in Texas animal control facilities last year, simply because there were no homes for them. Puppy mills are not only cruel and barbaric operations that are producing sickly puppies with genetic defects, they are mass contributors to the pet overpopulation problem.

Thank you for taking action. Please help us spread the word.

NOT closing, JUST MOVING

That is correct! Not closing but only moving. I know it is short notice, but we have found the perfect permanent spot for Haute Dogs & Glitzy Paws. We will be moving to 26411 Preston Avenue this weekend. So we will be closed starting on Friday (the 13th) and will re-open Thursday (the 19th) while packing, moving and unpacking take place. Feel free to stop by to see what's going on, it's only right across the street.

We will be on the corner of Main Street & Preston Avenue. The building is an early 1900's house with a full kitchen and another room perfect for grooming. We will offer a large selection of raw, frozen & dehydrated diets and will also be introducing some new kibble dog & cat foods. We are welcoming back Honest Kitchen as well as a new dehydrated food. So stay tuned!!!

As most of you know Old Town Spring has stores that have been in business for years. We are very sorry to see Jessica from Libby Lulu's close her doors after 5 years in OTS, however we wish her the best of luck with her new incredible job designing floral masterpieces. Jessica & her mom Anita are wonderful people and we know they will be back to visit us soon.

Pictures of progress will be posted soon.

DO NOT MISS THIS CLASS: Self-Defense Semiar

Allison Arnold will be holding a Self-Defense Seminar on Saturday March 28th at the Woodlands Aikido Center.

This is a must attend seminar where you can learn some basic and easy self defense moves and learn how to avoid hazards. If you have a child, please sign up. This is a Parent/Child learning program. We all know the dangers of strangers, but what if something was to happen? Would your child know what to do? Be safe, not sorry!

Colin & I have signed up and I encourage all of you to do the same.

Please contact Allison at 713/822-4312 for questions or for more informaiton.

Chicken Chinnamon Cookies

Chicken Cinnamon Cookies

• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup oatmeal
• ¼ corn flour
• ¼ cup oil
• 1 tbl baking powder
• 2 tbls of cinnamon

Pretty simple – just mix the ingredients to dough. Roll out and cut shapes. Cook at 350F/ 180C for around 20 mins.

Feeding Shelter Animals wih Free Kibble

Mini Ausland, a mere 12 year old, has created Freekibble.com to feed hungry animals at local shelters around the country. Partnered with Castor and Pollux to ensure the animals are fed not just any kibble, but a very high quality, all natural delicious dinner.

Already expanding from Oregon to Florida, with no end in sight, her brainchild is not only worthy, but easy, fun and informative! Pick either Bow-Wow Trivia or Meow Trivia, and make a BIG difference in the lives of shelter animals. Just play their online trivia game (you may learn something along the way!) and they’ll donate the kibble.

Remember - every piece of kibble counts!

Visit Free Kibble to learn more or to make a donation.

COLIN'S TENT SALE: this weekend (Fri, Sat & Sun.)

ALL PET CLOTHES ON SALE!!!

For those of you who have visited us before know that the "Assistant Manager" loves to sell things out in front of the store, so this weekend you can benefit from Colin's eagerness to become "The Manager", when he says "We must make room for new designs."

ALL PET CLOTHES ON SALE!!!

Tanks Was $14 NOW $5

Dresses Was $15 NOW $8

Jackets Was $45 NOW $15

Raincoats Was $30-70 NOW $20 (all sizes)

25% of each sale will be donated to local rescue groups

BLOAT: The #2 Killer

BLOAT: THE MOTHER OF ALL EMERGENCIES
There are many injuries and physical disorders which represent life-threatening emergencies. There is only one condition so drastic that it over shadows them all in
terms of rapidity of consequences and effort in emergency treatment. This is the gastric dilatation and volvulus – the "bloat."

WHAT IS IT AND WHY IS IT SO SERIOUS?
The normal stomach sits high in the abdomen and contains a small amount of gas, some mucus, and any food being digested. It undergoes a normal rhythm of contraction, receiving food from the esophagus above, grinding the food, and meting the ground food out to the small intestine at its other end. Normally this proceeds uneventfully except for the occasional burp.

WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR DEVELOPING BLOAT?
Classically, this condition affects dog breeds which are said to be "deep chested," meaning the length of their chest from backbone to sternum is relatively long while the chest width from right to left is narrow. Examples of deep chested breeds would be the Great Dane, Greyhound, and the setter breeds. Still, any dog can bloat, even dachshunds and chihuahuas.
Dogs weighing more than 99 pounds 
have an approximate 20% risk of bloat
Classically also, the dog had eaten a large meal and exercised heavily shortly thereafter. Still, we usually do not know why a given dog bloats on an individual basis. No specific diet or dietary ingredient has been proven to be associated with bloat. Some factors found to increase and decrease the risk of bloat are listed below:

Factors Increasing the Risk of Bloating

• Feeding only one meal a day


• Having closely related family members with a history of bloat


• Eating rapidly


• Being thin or underweight


• Moistening dry foods (particularly if citric acid is listed as a preservative)


• Feeding from an elevated bowl


• Restricting water before and after meals


• Feeding a dry diet with animal fat listed in the first four ingredients


• Fearful or anxious temperament


• History of aggression towards people or other dogs


• Male dogs are more likely to bloat than females


• Older dogs (7 - 12 years) were the highest risk group

Factors Decreasing the Risk of Bloat

• Inclusion of canned dog food in the diet


• Inclusion of table scraps in the diet


• Happy or easy-going temperament


• Feeding a a dry food containing a calcium-rich meat meal (such as meat/lamb meal, fish meal,chicken by-product meal, meat meal, or bone meal) listed in the first four ingredients of the ingredient list.


• Eating 2 or more meals per day


• Contrary to popular belief, the presence of cereal ingredients such as soy, wheat or corn in the first four ingredients of the ingredient list does not increase the risk of bloat.

In a study done by the Perdue University Research Group, headed by Dr. Lawrence T. Glickman, the Great Dane was the #1breed at risk for bloat. The St. Bernard was the #2 and the Weimaraner was #3.

In the study by Ward, Patonek, and Glickman reviewed the benefit of prophylactic surgery for bloat. Prophylactic surgery amounts to performing the gastropexy surgery (see below) in a healthy dog, usually in conjunction with spay or neuter. The lifetime risk of death from bloat was calculated, along with estimated treatment for bloat, versus cost of prophylactic gastropexy. Prophylactic gastropexy was found to make sense for at-risk breeds, especially the Great Dane, which is at highest risk for bloat.

HOW TO TELL IF YOUR DOG HAS BLOATED
The dog may have an obviously distended stomach especially near the ribs but this is not always evident depending on the dog's body configuration. The biggest clue is the vomiting: the pet appears highly nauseated and is retching but little is coming up. If this is seen, rush your dog to the veterinarian IMMEDIATELY.

WHAT HAS TO BE DONE
There are several steps to saving a bloated dogs life. Part of the problem is that all steps should be done at the same time and as quickly as possible.

FIRST: THE STOMACH MUST BE DECOMPRESSED
The huge stomach is by now pressing on the major blood vessels carrying blood back to the heart. This stops normal circulation and sends the dog into shock. Making matters worse, the stomach tissue is dying because it is stretched too tightly to allow blood circulation through it. There can be no recovery until the stomach is untwisted and the gas released. A stomach tube and stomach pump are generally used for this but sometime surgery is needed to achieve stomach decompression.
ALSO FIRST: RAPID IV FLUIDS MUST BE GIVEN TO REVERSE THE SHOCK
Intravenous catheters are placed and life-giving fluid solutions are rushed in to replace the blood that cannot get past the bloated stomach to return to the heart. The intense pain associated with this disease causes the heart rate to race at such a high rate that heart failure will result. Medication to resolve the pain is needed if the patient’s heart rate is to slow down. Medication for shock, antibiotics and electrolytes are all vital in stabilizing the patient.
ALSO FIRST: THE HEART RHYTHM IS ASSESSED AND STABILIZED
There is a special very dangerous rhythm problem, called a "premature ventricular contraction" or "pvc," associated with bloat and it must be ruled out. If it is present, intravenous medications are needed to stabilize the rhythm. Since this rhythm problem may not be evident until even the next day continual EKG monitoring may be necessary. Disturbed heart rhythm already present at the beginning of treatment is associated with a 38% mortality rate.
Getting the bloated dog's stomach decompressed and reversing the shock is an adventure in itself but the work is not yet half finished.

SURGERY
All bloated dogs, once stable, should have surgery. Without surgery, the damage done inside cannot be assessed or repaired plus bloat may recur at any point, even within the next few hours and the above adventure must be repeated. Surgery, called gastrpexy, allows the stomach to be tacked into normal position so that it may never again twist. Without gastropexy, the recurrence rate of bloat may be as high as 75%!
Assessment of the internal damage is also very important to recovery. If there is a section of dying tissue on the stomach wall, this must be discovered and removed or the dog will die despite the heroics described above. Also, the spleen, which is located adjacent to the stomach may twist with the stomach. The spleen may require removal, too.
If the tissue damage is so bad that part of the stomach must be removed, the mortality rate jumps to 28 - 38%.
If the tissue damage is so bad that the spleen must be removed, the mortality rate is 32 - 38%.
After the expense and effort of the stomach decompression, it is tempting to forgo the further expense of surgery. However, consider that the next time your dog bloats, you may not be there to catch it in time and, according the study described below, without surgery there is a 24% mortality rate and a 76% chance of re-bloating at some point. The best choice is to finish the treatment that has been started and have the abdomen explored. If the stomach can be surgically tacked into place, recurrence rate drops to 6%.

RESULTS OF A STATISTICAL STUDY
In 1993, a statistical study involving 134 dogs with gastric dilatation and volvulus was conducted by the School of Veterinary Medicine in Hanover, Germany.
Out of 134 dogs that came into the hospital with this condtion:

• 10% died or were euthanized prior to surgery (factors involved included expense of treatment, severity/advancement of disease etc.)


• 33 dogs were treated with decompression and no surgery. Of these dogs, 8 (24%) died or were euthanized within the next 48 hours due to poor response to treatment. (Six of these 8 had actually re-bloated)


• Of the dogs that did not have surgical treatment but did survive to go home, 76% had another episode of gastric dilatation and volvulus eventually.


• 88 dogs were treated with both decompression and surgery. Of these dogs, 10% (9 dogs) died in surgery, 18% (16 dogs) died in the week after surgery, 71.5% (63 dogs) went home in good condition. Of the dogs that went home in good condition, 6% (4 dogs) had a second episode of bloat later in life.


• In this study 66.4% of the bloated dogs were male and 33.6% were female. Most dogs were between ages 7 and 12 years old. The German Shepherd dog and the Boxer appeared to have a greater risk for bloating than did other breeds.

Meyer-Lindenberg A., Harder A., Fehr M., Luerssen D., Brunnberg L. Treatment of gastric dilatation-volvulus and a rapid method for prevention of relapse in dogs: 134 cases (1988-1991) Journal of the AVMA, Vol 23, No 9, Nov 1 1993, 1301-1307.

Another study published December of 2006 looked at 166 dogs that received surgery for gastric dilatation and volvulus. The point of the study was to identify factors that led to poor prognosis.

• A 16.2% mortality rate was observed. The mortality rate for dogs over age 10 years was 21%.


• Of the 166 going to surgery, 4.8% were euthanized during surgery, and the other 11.4% died during hospitalization (2 of dogs died during surgery). All dogs that survived to go home were still alive at the time of suture removal.


• 34 out of 166 dogs had gastric necrosis (dead stomach tissue which had to be removed). Of these dogs 26% died or were euthanized.


• Post-operative complications of some sort occured in 75.9% of patients. Approximately 50% of these dogs developed a cardiac arrhythmia.


• Risk factors significantly associated with death prior to suture removal included clinical signs of bloating for greater than 6 hours before seeing the vet, partial stomach removal combined with spleen removal, need for blood transfusion, low blood pressure at any time during hospitalization, sepsis (blood infection, and peritonitis (infection of the abdominal membranes).

(Beck, J.J., Staatz, A.J., Pelsue, D.H., Kudnig, S.T., MacPhail, C.M., Seim H.B, and Monnet, E. Risk factors associated with short-term outcome and development of perioperative complications in dogs undergoing surgery because of gastric dilatation-volvulus: 166 cases (1992-2003). Journal of the AVMA, Vol 229, No 12, December 15, 2006, p 1934-1939.)

In is crucially important that the owners of big dogs be aware of this condition and prepared for it. Know where to take your dog during overnight or Sunday hours for emergency care. Avoid exercising your dog after a large meal. Know what to watch for. Enjoy the special friendship a large dog provides but at the same time be aware of the large dog's special needs and concerns.

Houston Zoo Welcomes Miles

He’s very tall and very cute and brand new. Early Friday morning, January 30 the Houston Zoo welcomed the birth of a bouncing baby boy Masai giraffe. “He was born around 6:30 a.m. and by 7:50 a.m. he was standing on his own,” said Houston Zoo Supervisor Laurie McGivern. “He’s 69 and a half inches tall and weighs 110 pounds. He’s has all the appearances of a strong and healthy boy,” said McGivern.

Miles can now be visited at Houston Zoo giraffe exhibit. “When Miles is in his barn stall Zoo guests can view him through the stall window at the rear of the giraffe exhibit,” said McGivern. “The staff will also be presenting Meet the Keeper Talks with him at various times during the day,” added McGivern. Zoo guests are encouraged to visit the Zoo’s Web site at http://www.houstonzoo.org/ for the Meet the Keeper Talk schedules at the giraffe exhibit.

CLINIC: Crystal & Color Therapy for Animals

When: Sunday, February 22nd
Location: Kim’s farm near Manvel/Alvin, off 288, 30 minutes south of Houston medical center
Time: 9am-5pm
Cost: $125 w/$75 deposit (Paypal and checks accepted)

The use of crystals dates back to at least 25,000 BC. Today, even the medicine men or shamans of the American Indians, Aborigines, and Bushmen still use stones and crystals. Scientists have proven that crystals emit a certain energy vibration. All crystals have healing properties that can help people and animals.

Crystals can help with:
*Physical conditions such as wounds, digestive problems, arthritis, inflammation, pain, allergies, respiratory conditions, and circulatory problems.
*Emotional conditions such as anxiety, shyness, fear, aggression, compulsive behavioral issues, and hormonal imbalances.

Colors also emit energy and can having healing effects, whether it is color on a piece of paper, fabric, or from a crystal.

You will learn the following:
Brief (and fascinating) history of crystals
Benefits of crystals for animals
Healing properties of 19 different crystals
Healing properties of colors
How to administer crystal healing
How to administer color therapy
How to make a custom crystal flower essence including making one as part of workshop
Using a crystal massage wand
Using a crystal pendulum
Animal reactions to crystals
How to properly cleanse crystals
Crystal resources
Bring your animals or photos and muscle test to find out which crystals and colors would be helpful.
You can also muscle test yourself to find out which crystals and colors are helpful for you.
Workshop includes manual, pocket reference card, and a certificate of completion.

Various crystal options are available for purchase.
Crystal beads (6mm & 8mm) can be purchased individually
Set of 19 crystal beads
Metal jewelry cages to hold crystal beads (that go on collar or halter)
Lemurian seed crystals
Crystal massage wands
Crystal pendulums for energy work
Sage is an excellent way to cleanse your crystals

For more information, contact Kim Shotola, 713-822-4382 or visit www.TheLightfootWay.com

Proper Nail Care for Dogs & Cats

Grooming: Proper Nail Care for Dogs & Cats

When you groom your pet, it is important to incorporate nail care into the routine. Untrimmed nails can be a problem whether it’s scratching up floors and furniture to deformed feet for your pet. In some cases, pain and discomfort can also accrue. (Consider weekly or by-weekly pedicures for your pet)

When is it time?

When your dog walks for instance, if you hear a little pitter patter, in other words, a clicking sound of nails hitting the floor, you’ll know for sure it’s time for a trim. But, with proper weekly nail care for your dog, it shouldn’t reach that point. For cats it can be jumping up or sitting on your lap kneading. You may even notice damage to your walls or furniture. When will I need?

First, invest in a good pair of dog nail trimmers for an appropriate size for your pets nails. Cat nail clippers for cats or puppy size will be satisfactory. With the right size nail trimmers, they can last a very long time. Replace clipper after a year if used on a weekly basis or two years if used on a monthly basis. Next you will need a septic power for any accidents that may happen. Finally a good file board to smooth out any rough edges.

Incorporate nail care into your dog’s weekly or monthly routine. Not only is it good for proper care, it will alert you to possible foot problems which may be lurking.

Remember!

If you are NOT an accomplish nail care trimming pro, please visit your us and we will either assist you in showing your proper technique or will do the trimming for you. Be careful not to cut too close to the quick and don’t forget the dewclaws!! If they haven’t been removed on your dog, dewclaws are approximately one to four inches above the feet on the inner side of the legs. If they’re not trimmed, they can grow incredibly long to curl up and grow into the soft tissue, not unlike an ingrown toenail.

So, once you incorporate weekly, by-weekly or monthly nail care into your pet’s grooming routine, it will become a habit for both you and your pet. At Haute Dogs & Glitzy Paws nothing is more important than your pets’ health and overall well being.

For more information about nail care for your pet, call us at 281-353-4347 or visit us at http://www.hautedogsglitzypaws.com/


Ingrown declaw on a cat
broken declaw on a maltipoo

Dog Training Classes

Our Tuesday and Thursday obedience classes only has two more availability spaces open. Our class meets locally. Please contact us for more information.

Mutt Strutt & Runway Race: March 7th

Each step you take in the 2009 Houston SPCA Mutt Strut and Runway Race brings an animal that much closer to finding a loving, permanent home. This is a race we can all win!

Once you sign up, you can customize your personal Web page with a picture of your pet and tell the world your reason for walking for the animals. Send e-mails to your family and friends to raise pledges for the animals in our care. Even if you can’t participate on event day, you can still help homeless pets by signing up for the event as a Cat Napper and raising pledges online.

CHECK IN 6:30AM-8:00AM

WALK STARTS @ 8AM

ACTIVITIES FROM 8AM -NOON

LOCATION: BUSH INT. AIRPORT

Krewe of Barkus and Meoux Mardi Gras Parade in Galveston: February 22nd

Annual Krewe of Barkus and Meoux Mardi Gras Parade in Galveston

Join the Houston SPCA as we proudly serve as the Parade Grand Marshalls for the 11th Annual Krewe of Barkus and Meoux Mardi Gras Parade in Galveston and recognized by the Galveston Island Humane Society for our relief efforts in regards to Hurricane Ike. Cruelty Investigators, volunteers, staff and their pets will be on hand to represent the Houston SPCA for this memorable event!

Sunday, February 22nd

Parade kicks off at 1pm at 27th and Seawall and travels west to 41st

Dogs & Hockey? SCORE!!!: MARCH 12TH

Mark your calendars for Odessa Jackalopes Dogs and Ice Night!

March 12, 2009Game starts at 7:00 PM - gates open at 6:00 to approximately 9:30

PMA dmission: $3.00 "Pooch Pass" for dog, plus tickets

Benefiting: Lone Star SPCALet your dog expereince a professional hockey game courtesy of the Odessa Jacklaopes, Pet Mystique and Lone Star SPCA. Pooch Pass proceedss benefit the Lone Star SPCA. The first 200 dogs will get a name tag. There will be deomonstartions, a celebrity dog walk, vendor tables, the chance to get your pooch's picture taken with SlapJack, the mascot. There will also be contests, icncluding the Paul Gillis, the head coach, look-alike contest!

For more information, please call (432) 552-7825 or email blevy@jackalopes.org.

Join us for some fun & help Boxer Rescue: FEBRUARY 6TH

Join us for our 2nd Annual Texas Hold'Em Poker Tournament. All proceeds will go towards our efforts to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome boxers in need.

Online Registration is now open - click here to register!

Date February 6, 2009
Time 7pm – Player Check-In, Buffet Dinner, and Silent Auction
8pm – Poker Tournament Begins
Where SPJST Hall - 1435 Beall Street, Houston, TX 77008

Info http://www.lonestarboxerrescue.com/

Registration Options see website for details
Space limited to 200 players
Professional tables and dealers provided by iHOSTPoker.com
Players are eliminated when they lose all their chips. Tables are consolidated to a final table; then when the playing is finished one final winner is declared.
Consolation Tables
Players not advancing in the tournament can continue to have fun playing at consolation poker tables.

Silent Auction and Raffle items & gifts by:
A Romantic Nights Stay at the Houstonian Hotel (Great Valentine’s Day Gift)
Spa Package from Trellis Spa at the Houstonian
Scuba Diving Lessons from Dive Tech
Rockets Game Tickets
Kate Spade Designer Sunglasses from Insight Optical
Garmin Nuvi GPS from Audio Video Direct
Dinner Certificate from Perry’s Steakhouse Grill
Sports and Entertainment Memorabilia
Massage From Massage Envy
Beautiful Designer Copper Mirror from Janet Gust Design Group
Stunning Glenda Geis Weekend Bag from Janet Gust Design Group
Many More Items
Current Sponsors & Support
TMC Telecom Management
Slick Rick’s Poker Tables
Janet Gust Design Group
Massage Envy
Perry’s Steakhouse Grill
Audio Video DirectInsight Optical
Dive Tech
The Houstonian

Ban the Roadside Sale of Animals

The Woodlands Dog Park Club (TWDPC) has begun efforts to get legislation passed to BAN THE ROADSIDE SALE OF ANIMALS and it is upon us all to have our voices heard. Why do we want this law passed?

These animals get sold at a discounted price to 'anyone'. There is no qualification process for dog/cat ownership. These are the same animals that get processed through Animal Control – a kill shelter...and it's a vicious cycle of breeding, selling and killing.

The sellers are unqualified breeders, and don't have licenses to breed animals. We don't know if people are running puppy mills, and don't know what the conditions are that the animals live in. We don't even know if the animals are healthy - buying is based on the sellers 'word'. This is an unregulated business.

We have thousands of animals processed through the shelters each month...some find forever homes through area rescue groups and adoption programs, and sadly some are euthanized. An average of 3,000 dogs per month gets processed through Animal Control in Montgomery County, and 35% - 50% of the animals are euthanized. 1,000 animals are euthanized each month! Breeding, selling and killing is a vicious cycle we must stop!

There is no mandatory dog licensure or Spay/Neuter in Montgomery County. Licensing and Spay/Neuter will help the overpopulation issue.

TWDPC has met with our State Representative Rob Eissler, State Senator Tommy Williams and State Representative Brandon Creighton. The initial meetings established awareness to the roadside sale of animals and our animal control issue. The plan is to bring this issue to legislation in early 2009 and get a bill passed to STOP THE CYCLE! Harris County already passed a bill that bans the sale of roadside animals; however we propose to ban the sale of roadside animals in Montgomery, and contiguous counties (Waller, San Jacinto, Walker etc.). Eissler, Williams and Creighton and their fellow legislators would need to write and carry bills into the next session, get this introduced and passed into law. We need your immediate help to get your voice heard with our state representatives and county representatives.

Please write an email to the below representatives indicating you support the BAN OF ROADSIDE ANIMALS! Please include your name, address and phone number too!

State Representatives:
Rob Eissler rob.eissler@house.state.tx.us
Tommy Williams tommy.williams@senate.state.tx.us
Brandon Creighton mailto:brandoncreighton@house.state.tx.us

County Representatives:
Ed Chance echance@co.montgomery.tx.us
Ed Rinehart erinehart@co.montgomery.tx.us
Craig Doyal cdoyal@co.montgomery.tx.us
Mike Meador bhouser@co.montgomery.tx.us
Judge Alan Sadler cojudge@co.montgomery.tx.us

Denise Corliss & her FEMA Search & Rescue Dogs Seminar

The Greater Houston Golden Retriever Club invites you to attend this exciting presentation following their February meeting. On Tuesday, February 17 at 7:30 p.m., GHGRC member Denise Corliss will give a talk about her experiences with her Goldens who are FEMA certified Search and Rescue dogs.

There are fewer than 200 FEMA Advanced Certified Search and Rescue dogs in the U.S., and Denise has two of them: Bretagne and Aid'n. Each dog and handler must pass a rigorous national certification and teams must be re-certified every two years. There are two levels of certification: Basic and Advanced. It takes a year of training to reach Basic and many never reach Advanced. Denise was deployed with her golden Bretagne to NYC for 9-11. See the NY golden Retriever Club article "The Goldens of Ground Zero" which features a photo of Denise and Bretagne. More recently, Denise and Aid'N were profiled in the Copperfield newspaper. There is no charge for the presentation, and GBGRR volunteers will provide refreshments. Please r.s.v.p. We hope to see you there!

PetSmart RECALL

RECALL FIRM PRESS RELEASE

FDA posts press releases and other notices of recalls and market withdrawals from the firms involved as a service to consumers, the media, and other interested parties. FDA does not endorse either the product or the company.
PetSmart Voluntarily Recalls Grreat Choice® Dog Biscuits
Contact:PetSmart Customer Service1-888-839-9638

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- PHOENIX, AZ, January 20, 2009 -- PetSmart is voluntarily recalling seven of its Grreat Choice® Dog Biscuit products that contain peanut paste made by Peanut Corporation of America (PCA). PCA is the focus of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration investigation into potential salmonella contamination of peanut butter and paste made at its Blakely, Georgia facility.

Although PetSmart is not aware of any reported cases of illness related to these products, it has removed these products from its store shelves and website and is conducting the recall as a precautionary measure.

The recalled products include only the following types of Grreat Choice Dog Biscuits sold between Aug. 21, 2008 and Jan. 19, 2009:

• Small Assorted 32 oz., UPC 73725702900


• Small/Medium Assorted 4 lb., UPC 73725700601


• Small/Medium Assorted 8 lb., UPC 73725700605


• Small/Medium Assorted 10 lb., UPC 73725702755


• Large Assorted 8 lb., UPC 73725700638


• Extra Large Assorted 8 lb., UPC 73725700779


• Peanut Butter 4 lb., UPC 73725700766
  

Customers who purchased the recalled dog biscuit products should discontinue use immediately and can return the product to any PetSmart store for a complete refund or exchange. Customers can visit www.petsmartfacts.com for more information or contact PetSmart Customer Service at 1-888-839-9638.

No other products or flavors are included in this recall.

http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/petsmart01_09.html

Please rest assured that Haute Dogs & Glitzy Paws Boutique does not carry these products and has never carried any products that have EVER been recalled. Our products are of the highest quality and come from reputable manufactures.

AKC: 2008 Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.

LABRADOR RETRIEVER HOLDS FIRM IN TOP SPOT ON AKC’S LIST OF MOST POPULAR DOGS IN AMERICA; LOVABLE BULLDOG CONTINUES ITS ASCENT

-- AKC Celebrates 125th Anniversary with a Look Back at First AKC Registered Breeds in History --

New York, NY – For the 18th consecutive year, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular purebred dog in America, according to 2008 registration statistics released today by the American Kennel Club® (AKC) But, while more than twice as many Labs were registered last year than any other breed making it a likely leader for many years to come, the Bulldog continues to amble its way up the list. The breed made news last year by returning to the AKC’s Top 10 for the first time in more than 70 years and now has jumped 6%, advancing two spots to land in 8th place.

“The playful Lab may still reign supreme, but the docile and adaptive nature of the Bulldog is gaining ground as a family favorite,” said AKC Spokesperson Lisa Peterson. “It’s no surprise to learn that this devoted family companion is still growing in popularity.”

2008 Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.
1. Labrador Retriever
2. Yorkshire Terrier
3. German Shepherd Dog
4. Golden Retriever
5. Beagle
6. Boxer
7. Dachshund
8. Bulldog
9. Poodle
10. Shih Tzu

125 YEARS OF HISTORY
Like the Bulldog, the popularity of breeds ebbs and flows over time. The AKC is proud to be celebrating its 125th Anniversary during 2009. In 1884 at the time of the organization’s founding, AKC registered only nine breeds versus the 161 it recognizes today:

AKC Registered Breeds in 1884 Rank in 2008
Pointer 111
Chesapeake Bay Retriever 48
English Setter 86
Gordon Setter 92
Irish Setter 69
Clumber Spaniel 117
Cocker Spaniel* 21
Irish Water Spaniel 144
Sussex Spaniel 147

*In 1884 the English Cocker Spaniel and the Cocker Spaniel were registered as the same breed. They were separated in 1946. Today the English Cocker Spaniel is ranked 70th.

These original breeds are all current members of the Sporting Group -- dogs bred to help man find and retrieve game. They all have innate instincts in the water, field and woods. While none of the original nine is anywhere near the AKC Top 10, the qualities that made them effective hunters -- trainability and desire to please -- make them ideal family dogs today.

“I think the comparison of our original nine to the current top 10 illustrates the different needs that dogs fill today,” said Peterson. “In the 1880’s most breeds served a specific purpose or function. Today dogs still serve man and in even more diverse roles -- from guide dog to bomb detection K-9 – but most of all, dogs are now companions that ground us to nature in a busy and increasingly technological world.”

PET PREFERENCES: TOP 50 CITIES
While time periods are indicators for the popularity of certain pets, so is geography. Each year, AKC looks at the most popular breeds in each of the 50 largest cities in the U.S. Some highlights:
While the Bulldog continues to climb the national list, it’s really marking its territory in a number of western cities -- Las Vegas, Long Beach, Los Angeles, and San Diego – where it comes in 2nd, right after the Lab.
Only Honolulu, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Portland, Raleigh, and Salt Lake City snubbed the Bulldog — opting for a wide variety of other breeds in their Top 10.
Detroit and Miami are the only cities that do not have the Labrador Retriever in the top spot, both favoring the German Shepherd Dog.
The Boxer is muscling its way to the top in a few cities, ranking second in Baltimore, Cincinnati, Des Moines, Louisville, Omaha and Kansas City. It’s 3rd in Atlanta, Cleveland, New Orleans, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Pittsburgh, St. Louis and even Philadelphia -- where like its boxing brethren “Rocky” it’s still a literal underdog, but if movie plots are any indication, perhaps not for long.
Californians seem to love the Miniature Pinscher (ranked 32nd nationally). It came in 6th (up from 15 last year) in San Diego and also ranked 8th in Sacramento.
The Vizsla is tied for 10th with the Shih Tzu in Chicago. Ranked 44th nationally, the Vizsla has long been a favorite in the Windy City, having made the local top 10 list in 2007 and 2003.
Unusual breeds on local top ten lists including the Great Dane (10th in St. Louis), the Mastiff (10th in Indianapolis), the Brittany (10th in Minneapolis), the Belgian Malinois (8th in Kansas City) and the Siberian Husky (9th in Long Beach).

PET PREFERENCES: 1998– 2008
Some of the most notable recent trends in the past decade include:
The Bulldog (+69%) and four of its relatives are among the breeds that have increased most significantly over the last decade: Miniature Bull Terrier (+109%), Bull Terrier (+102%), Staffordshire Bull Terrier (+69%) and the Bullmastiff (+22%).
The French Bulldog (+467%), the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (+209%) and the Brussels Griffon (+73%) continue to be among the breeds with the largest increases, likely due to their popularity with urban dog owners who favor portable, apartment-sized dogs.
The Border Collie, often considered among the most intelligent and trainable breeds, and known for its mastery of the highly popular canine sport of agility, saw a significant increase (+50%).
Lesser known breeds that saw an increase include the Ibizan Hound (+74%), Norwich Terrier (+39%) and Bedlington Terrier (+28%).
Large dogs with notable increases are two Swiss breeds – the Bernese Mountain Dog (+78%) and the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog (+88%) – as well as the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon (+117%), which hails from France.
Among breeds on the decline are the Lhasa Apso (-80%), Rottweiler (-76%), Schipperke (-75%) the Basset Hound (-66 %) and, despite its popularity in Sacramento and San Diego, the Miniature Pinscher (-75%).
Portuguese Water Dogs, in the news recently due to the Obama family’s interest in this mid-sized, hypoallergenic breed, is currently ranked 64th and has increased 44% in the past decade—especially appropriate considering Obama is our 44th president.
However another famous presidential pet – the American Foxhound (-75%) – is on the decline. George Washington is credited with developing the breed.

Dog lovers can see and learn more about all of their favorite breeds on Saturday, January 31, 2009 when the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship — where the country’s top dogs compete for $225,000 in prize money and the title of “National Champion” — airs on Animal Planet and the Discovery Channel from 8-11 p.m. (ET/PT). Highlights from the AKC Agility Invitational will air on Animal Planet on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2009 at 8 p.m. (ET/PT).

###

The American Kennel Club (AKC), proudly celebrates its 125th Anniversary in 2009. Since 1884 the not-for-profit organization has maintained the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world, and today its rules govern more than 20,000 canine competitions each year. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Along with its nearly 5,000 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Companion Animal Recovery and the AKC Museum of the Dog. For more information, visit http://www.akc.org/.

AKC, American Kennel Club, the American Kennel Club seal and design, and all associated marks and logos are trademarks, registered trademarks and service marks of The American Kennel Club, Inc.

Good News for Turbo

Yes, good news if not just simply great news for our little buddy Turbo.

He's found a permanent loving home. He was picked up today for the short drive to West Houston to join his 3 new sisters (2 dogs & 1 cat). Updates to be posted soon.

Grooming for Rescue Dogs

My groomers have offered to donate two free grooming appointments each week to local rescue groups and their dogs. As a store owner, I am willing to extend and offer to all rescue groups and give 20% off grooming coupons, which can be given out in adoption packets to new families when they adopt their new dog. If you are interested, please contact us at (281) 353-4347.

Greater Houston Horse Council

The Greater Houston Horse Council is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that promotes and protects the interests of the entire horse community. The GHHC is working very hard to protect our trails in National Parks as well as many other horseman related issues.

Please consdier joining the GHHC and helping fight issues that may very easily cross over to you as dog owners. For example, there was not much time between when a law was passed that horses could no longer be riden on city property (parks, trails or on the esplandes) in the Houston city limits that we began to see the City of Houston trying to pass laws on banning certian breeds of dogs.

All animal owners have rights, lets keep it that way.

For more information on the Houston Horse Council please visit: www.ghhc.com

Other sites of interest:
Texans for State Parks www.texansstateparks.org
Texas Legislature www.capitol.state.tx.us
The Pegasus Program www.pegasus.alert.cc
Houston Horse Trails www.houstonhorsetrails.net

Help Rocky Spot Dalmatian Rescue in OKC

Our good friends at Rocky Spot Dal Rescue in OKC, who has saved hundreds of dogs from death in kill and gas shelters in OK and surrounding states, is now in dire straights. They have lost their food sponsor recently and they are also fighting county officials who wants to shut them down. Rocky Spot currently has about 40 Dalmatians and their future and fate are not looking good.

Rocky Spot has been in existence for about 12-14 yrs now, whenever the #5 tornado destroyed much of OKC and Wichita. Theresa went from 2 Dalmatians to 14 in her possession in about 4 days. It was literally raining Dalmatians following the tornado. We have a very good working relation with Rocky Spot and we both help each other. I hope we can help them win this award.

Please vote for Rocky Spot at http://www.care2.com/animalsheltercontest/69186/?refer=3D1528.14.12319474 and help them win the $10,000 they so desperately need to stay afloat.

Please post to your friends and ask them to vote and post to their friends too!! Rocky Spot needs our help more than ever!!

Texas Dog Commission

TEXAS DOG COMMISSION©
The Watchdog of Owners' Rights ©

7941 KATY FREEWAY, NO. 412

HOUSTON , TEXAS 77024

Phone (713) 222-7600 Fax (713) 467-1355

• Support fair and equal laws for all dogs and their owners.
• Advocate for reasonable dog laws at the local and state levels that support the welfare of dogs and do not infringe upon the rights of owners.
• Fight against any and all forms of breed specific legislation that discriminate against dogs and their owners in any way.
• Promote voluntary spay neuter initiatives at low cost or no cost so that anyone who would like his or her pet altered can do so.
• Promote the positive no kill initiatives based on the philosophy of Nathan Winograd (author of Redemption) at local animal services and shelters so that the catch and kill practices will be abolished in favor of saving and adopting all healthy animals.
• Collaborate with local animal services so that more dogs can be adopted which lowers the euthanasia rate.
• Support local animal services to engender a positive relationship with them in an effort help get more animals adopted and to advocate for proper staffing and funding.
• Promote education on responsible dog ownership through seminars, at local events and at the behest of animal services.
• Promote education about the various breeds of dogs so that new owners can select the best dog for them and their family.
• Support fun activities for dogs and their owners to enjoy together.
• Support laws promoting dog parks, dog friendly restaurant patios and any other laws that help integrate dogs in our daily life.