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Unbroken Spirit, Unchain Charleston, Vet Tech Training, Boykin Champion, Digestive Health, Bite Inhibition and more!
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magazinejune/july 2012
volume 8, issue 4
TM
charlestonunchained
bite inhibition
vet tech trainingat trident tech
SPIRITUnbroken
+ local boykin earnschampion title
contentsPublisher
Leah England
(843) 478-0266
Advertising
Brian Foster
(843) 732-0412
Communications
Gillian Nicol
Contributing Writer
Jennifer Heisler
Guest Photographer
Dana Cubbage
www.danacubbagephotography.com
Staff Photographer
Laura Olsen
www.lauraolsen.com
Accounting
Carrie Clark Financial Services
(843) 367-9969
Lowcountry Dog Magazine
PO Box 22
Mt. Pleasant, SC 29465
www.lowcountrydog.com
Web: lowcountrydog.com
june/july 2012
fido’s friends 4Amanda Bunting Comen
if not you, who? 6
breaking the chains 8
from family dog to field champ 10
spirit unbroken 14
calendar of events 21
health and wellness 22
Digestive Health
training 24
Bite Inhibition
vet tech training at trident 26
adoption 28
Frances R Willis SPCA
144
Lowcountry Dog’s mission is to be the leading local resource for dog owners regarding regional events, health and wellness information, trends, style and lifestyle choices. We also strive to be a mouthpiece to the public for various dog related non-profits and promote pet adoption and other responsible pet care practices.
Dog lovers can pick up the bimonthly magazine for free at most area veterinarians and pet stores throughout the lowcountry, as well as numerous restaurants, coffee bars and retailers. A full distribution list is posted to the magazine’s web site, lowcountrydog.com. Subscriptions are also available. Please call 843-478-0266 for more information.
The entire contents of this magazine are copyrighted by Lowcountry Dog Magazine with all rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue is expressly forbidden without permission of the publisher.
Lowcountry Dog Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any product, service, or vendor mentioned or pictured in this magazine in editorial or advertising space. Views expressed by authors or advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher.
6
1st Table of Contents photo by Laura Olsen Imagery. Third Table of
Contents photo and cover shot by Dana Cubbage Photography.
This magazine is printed on 100% recycled paper.
Continue the green process by recycling this copy.
Lowcountrydog 3
205 Scott Street(Old Villiage)
Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464(843) 856-7384
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1. What’s the best thing about owning a dog? Having a dog brings another element of fun to our family while it also teaches
my 4 year old son responsibility, love and respect for animals.
2. What do you f ind the most frustrating about your dog, or struggle with as a dog owner ? I don’t like to be licked at all by any animal and she’s a licker big time!
3. All time favorite memory of your dog? The day we got her.
4. Favorite place to hang out with your dog in Charleston?We took her to my favorite beach, Beachwalker Park on Kiawah Island, for the
first time on Mother’s Day and we had a perfect day. I see
many more fun in the sun days with her.
5. With what aspect of your dog’s personality do you most identify?She gets pretty vociferous when she’s hungry and not fed
on time.
6. In your opinion, what’s the one item all dog owners must have?
A big long lasting dog bone.
7. If your dog were some other sort of animal,
what would she be?Cheetah.
8. How does your dog inspire you? Or what has your dog taught you about life and work?She’s just a year old so she’s still quite exuberant. She inspires me to muster up the energy
to get out and play more.
9. How do you KNOW you and your dog are best friends?She is always waiting for me at the door when I come home and happy to see me. She helps
the stress from the day just melt away…
10. What’s your favorite thing about Lowcountry Dog Magazine?I like the photos of puppies and am always checking out the upcoming events section.
4 Lowcountrydog
F ido’s Friendsamanda bunting comen
Occupation: Media Manager, Center for Women
Dogs in Household: One Named: Shelbie
Lives: West Ashley
photos by Laura Olsen Imagery
Lowcountrydog 5
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You’ve Got A Friend in the Car Business! charlestonsubaru.com 8261 Rivers Ave.
F ido’s Friendsamanda bunting comen
Occupation: Media Manager, Center for Women
Dogs in Household: One Named: Shelbie
Lives: West Ashley
photos by Laura Olsen Imagery
www.lauraolsen.com
It’s called Summer Slam for a reason. More dogs and cats enter shelters in June, July and August than any other time of year.
Many are litters of puppies and kittens. Most of them need individual attention and care in a non-sheltering environment to quickly regain their health and be made available for adoption.
This is where we need you!For as little as two weeks, or perhaps up to six weeks, you can
directly save a life by offering your home as a temporary recuperation environment for a dog, puppy, cat or kitten.
Add it to your bucket list; use it as a growth experience for your children; or, commit this brief moment in your life to save another life – no matter what the motivation or reason, now is when you’re needed most.
What kind of animals need foster care? • Puppies and kittens under two months old• Mothers with nursing litters• Dogs and cats with medical conditions or injuries• Special needs fosters• Healthy dogs and puppiesFoster ambassadors are also needed. These are folks, like you,
who love animals and are willing go a step further by finding a home for a shelter pet. Both Charleston Animal Society and Pet Helpers have started these innovative new programs to help save more animals with the help of the ASPCA.
Adoption Ambassador programs are designed to help find homes for animals with special needs and healthy animals. The sheltering organization assigns an animal to the foster family or individual who provides care for the animal and takes the animal to dog parks and community events to introduce him/her to potential adopters. When a match is made, the Ambassador completes the adoption. This saves critical resources for the sheltering organization and provides enhanced opportunities for folks to be introduced to animals
available for adoption. To find out more about these programs, contact Charleston Animal Society and Pet Helpers.
Even if you have pets, you can still foster. Experienced pet guardians make wonderful foster families.
Last year, Charleston Animal Society and Pet Helpers were able to save nearly 8,000 animals. Thousands of these animals were treated for injuries and illnesses. However, shelters are full to capacity in summer months and need additional homes where animals may be treated. The ASPCA Partner Community goals this year include expanding the network of foster families, including individuals, to a point where 1,000 more animals than last year may be treated and saved in foster homes.
Charleston has the capacity to do this. Does it have the will? If not you, who?
Founded in the early 1990's, Humane Net brought together animal care and control organizations from throughout the South Carolina Lowcountry to address issues threatening the lives and welfare of animals, including disasters, cruelty and overpopulation. As a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, Humane Net is comprised solely of volunteers representing the Tri-County’s animal care and control organizations and serves as a collaborative means for organizations to prepare and respond to disasters, pursue anti-cruelty initiatives, manage the overpopulation of animals and offer critical programs and services through community outreach.
6 Lowcountrydog
• Visit www.SaveMoreLives.org• Call CAS 843.747.4849 Pet Helpers 843.795.1110• Foster• Volunteer • Donate• Spread the Word on Facebook• Blog about Fostering & Adoption
photos by Jumping Lab, Flickr Creative Commons
If Not You, Who?By Cary Stout, President of Humane Net
Lowcountrydog 7
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• BoardCertifiedInternalMedicine,Oncology,Neurology,Surgery&Cardiology• Over100yearscombined,trustedexperienceintheLowcountry• Onlineemergencypre-registrationonourwebsite• Mostadvanced&safestMRIinSouthCarolina• TakeavirtualtourofournewhospitalonourwebsiteWhen your pet is sick or hurt, we know exactly how you feel. We’ve been there, through the worry, anxiety and concern. We offer the most advanced medical care possible along with the tender, compassionate & attentive care your pet deserves.
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8 Lowcountrydog
Breaking the Chains Toby and Tiny, two dogs who live their lives outside on their
owner’s James Island property, have a bit more spring in their step
thanks to Unchain Charleston, a volunteer group at Pet Helpers
dedicated to improving the quality of life for chained dogs.
On Saturday April 7th, with the help of corporate sponsor
Lowe’s Home Improvement, the volunteers at Unchain Charleston
built their first fence for Toby and Tiny. The two dogs no longer
need to be tethered, and can instead roam freely in their enclosed
backyard.
It is an accepted fact in the animal welfare community that
prolonged chaining, or tethering, can lead to aggressive behavior
in dogs. Though legal in South Carolina, chaining is considered
inhumane and an improper form of animal restraint in the eyes
of most animal advocates. According to the ASPCA, “given only a
small area in which to dwell, tethered dogs are known to become
irrationally protective of that area because it is essentially their
whole world.” Studies from The Center for Disease Control have
shown that a chained or tethered dog is nearly three times more
likely to bite than a dog who is not chained or tethered.
However, many owners of chained dogs are either unaware of
its consequences or lack the resources to provide an alternative.
Unchain Charleston was established to help dog owners in such
situations. In addition to the fencing, dog owners are given dog
food, a year of heartworm preventative, and the dogs are spayed
or neutered.
Kristin Kifer, Director of Operations at Pet Helpers, explains,
“Pet Helpers is getting involved because we want dogs to live
happier lives, and to change the public perception that tethered
dogs are bad dogs, when often times they aren’t. Over the past
several years, we’ve seen cases where dogs living at the end of a
chain increasingly became more aggressive. In the worst cases,
the dogs have to be euthanized, through no fault of their own, and
it’s heartbreaking. Unchain Charleston provides an opportunity
to help build a richer environment for these dogs and a chance for
a better relationship between the dogs and their owners.”
Likewise, Lowe’s understands the impact this type of project
can make on a community. James Island Lowe’s Store Manager,
Clint Wimer, says, “Here at Lowe's we take great pride in being
a part of the community. This is part of what we call our Heroes
Project that we do every year. [To quote] coach John Wooden, ‘You
can't have a perfect day unless you help someone that has no way
of returning the favor.’ And that is part of what makes it a heroes
project. My team is excited to help and is looking forward to more
projects in the future with our friends at Pet Helpers.”
If you are interested in volunteering with Unchain Charleston,
contact [email protected]. If you would like to
be considered for a fence, or would like to suggest a candidate
contact Kristin Kifer at [email protected] Toby, who once spent all his time on a chain, is now free! Above,
an Unchain Charleston volunteer works on Toby's fence build. All
photos by Laura Olsen Imagery.
Lowcountrydog 9
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843-906-9997
mindfulmanners.net
Fine Art and Portraiture
by M.C. Churchill-Nash
Please visit Atelier Gallery,153 King Street, Charleston, to view a selection of MC’s work.
Sponsoredby Ruby
Help Keep Charleston
Beautiful& Be Famous
Sponsor a waste bag dispenser at your favorite local park
featuring a photo of your pet!
For more information contactKeep Charleston Beautiful
www.keepcharlestonbeautiful.org
(843)579-7501
Ask aboutbusiness
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The playful Boykin Spaniel puppy was picked
out by David Calhoun’s son Mike and was given
to him as a surprise birthday gift by his wife
Pebbles. Mike, a huge University of South
Carolina fan, also picked out the new puppy’s
name in honor of USC second baseman Scott
Wingo: “Wingo Raging River” is his given name,
though he goes by “River.”
Despite his humble beginnings as a family
dog, however, River has a distinction now
that no other Boykin Spaniels have. River
gets to use the suffix PCH12 after his name.
Puppy Champion 2012. River won the Boykin
Spaniel Society National Field Trials, a national
retrieving dog competition held on March 29 in
Clinton, South Carolina. Even more impressive
is that he earned his title at the ripe old age of
ten months.
What does that championship title mean?
Young River, after only about four months of
training, was the best retriever in his class of 31
dogs from all over the country, some dogs from
as far away as Montana. And it was his first
competition.
Wingo Raging River wasn’t chosen with the
goal of winning a national title before he was
a year old, or even competing at all. In fact,
even though River is his third Boykin Spaniel,
Calhoun had never entered or trained one and
had only an interest in watching field trials
as an activity. Calhoun called the Carolina
Boykin Spaniel Retriever Club and came out
to Lockhaven Farm and Kennel to watch a
field trial. While he was there he talked with
family friend Johnny Holden, the owner of
the property, about possibly working with the
From Family Dog to Field Champtext by Jennifer Heisler
River and his owner David Calhoun.
10 Lowcountrydog
Lowcountrydog 11
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COASTAL CAROLINA Veterinary Specialists (843) 566-0023
3163 W. Montague Ave. N. Charlestonwww.ccvsllc.com Mon-Fri 8:00am-6:00pm
Is your dog suffering from arthritis? Or recovering from injury or surgery? Do you have an older or overweight dog that is having trouble getting around?
We have the Answer… Canine Rehabilitation
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12 Lowcountrydog
puppy.
The loving Boykin Spaniel showed
his retriever colors early on and that
was noticed by Calhoun and Holden,
who helped the Calhoun family find the
pup. Holden knows what he’s looking
for, too. For the past 25 years Holden has
been training retrievers as a part time
hobby. Maybe it’s more than a hobby. He
is a retired paramedic and he still works
full time. When Holden gets home from
work he changes clothes and trains
dogs in obedience, hunting, retrieving,
and field trials. Needless to say he likes
to maintain an active lifestyle: he is
training seven dogs right now and he is
passionate about it.
River was about six months old
when Calhoun brought him over to
Holden’s farm to begin training officially and the rest, as they
say, is history. Six to seven months of age is a good time to
begin training, says Holden, provided the puppy has the right
characteristics. River has the drive to retrieve and truly loves to
do well to please others. He certainly has the energy, intelligence,
and courage required.
Calhoun and Holden started him on a two month training
program to teach him how to retrieve. “Trainers differ in their
approaches,” Holden explains, “But the key is to have patience
with the pup and not over train him. Let the dog enjoy it.” At
first he works with the dog for maybe 10 to 15 minutes at a time,
gradually increasing the length of the sessions as the dog matures.
The first month’s training is mainly obedience, Holder says.
He throws some bumpers, which are canvas training aids, to get
the dog interested in retrieving. The dog also learns other basics
like “sit” and “come” on command. During the second month the
dog works on “force fetch,” a specialized training to teach the
retriever to pick up the bird and hold it until the owner calls for
it.
After River’s first two months, Holden sent him home to bond
and train with his owner. On the weekends, though, Holden
would pick him up and continue the dog’s training regimen. All
their hard work clearly paid off.
What’s next for our local celebrity retriever? Early retirement?
“I will continue to train him so he can reach his full potential as a
retriever. I may do some more field trials later on. If not, he will
be my hunting buddy,” smiles Calhoun. “River is very special to
me. He is a loyal friend, no matter what. He is not just a pet, but a
big part of our family. I enjoy spending time with him.”
Lowcountrydog 13
Kiya
Lowcountrydog 15
SPIRITUnbroken
photography by Dana Cubbage
A year and a half ago Kiya, a stunningly gorgeous German Shepherd, began experiencing limb weakness. Veterinarians diagnosed her with Degenerative Myelopathy, which is a degenerative disease of the spinal cord causing hind limb weakness, lameness and eventual paralysis. Despite the lack of a cure or treatment for this ailment Kiya’s owners, David and Laura Bash, were determined to preserve her quality of life. “Kiya has been a loving companion since we got her at eight-weeks old. We feel it is our duty and responsibility to do as much for her as we possibly can,” says the couple.
Because of the swift progression of Kiya’s condition, she can no longer walk, run or even stand on her own. A canine wheelchair quickly became a necessity and the Bashs were thankfully able to meet the financial requirements of purchasing one for Kiya seven months ago. “Now she can once again walk, play and participate in family activities. We have a pack of four German Shepherds, so Kiya is always with other dogs. The wheelchair hasn’t hindered her social personality in any way; She still loves to meet new friends, both 2 and 4-legged,” says David.
But the wheelchair has brought some adjustment to the pace of the Bash family’s life. In order to maintain Kiya's healthy weight and to keep up her strength and endurance, the Bashs must take Kiya on several long walks during the day. “Time is the one factor that has become a bit more important in handling Kiya's disability,” explains Laura.
When asked about the incredible commitment one must make to an animal with special needs, the Bash family focused primarily on how they would do anything for their incredibly intelligent, gentle, patient and loving friend. “Yes, you need to make the time to care for them, have patience when things don't go the way you would like them to, pray you can meet the financial commitments and find people who are willing to help. But most of all, you just love them like crazy.”
Only Finnley, a hound dog mix, knows if he was born with half of his back leg or if he lost a portion of it in an animal trap. What the staff at St. Francis Humane Society do know is that he was found wandering the woods of Georgetown county nearly three years ago. The woodland pup became such a favorite at the shelter that staff and volunteers pooled their resources to pay for the surgery to remove the remaining portion of his leg. Finn was determined to use it, and it was throwing off his balance.
Meanwhile, Kate Dittloff was searching Petfinder.com for the perfect canine companion. “I remember the exact moment I decided I was going to adopt him,"explains Kate. "I was at his foster home and he came out from around the corner, came over to sniff me, sat down a few feet away then gave me ‘the look.’ I was hooked. Little did I know that he gives most people that look. Regardless, it is one of the best decisions I ever made.”
Kate adopted Finn shortly after his surgery and he was still growing accustomed to navigating as a tripod. Kate helped him in and out of her vehicle, onto furniture, and up the stairs. The two quickly bonded as she helped Finn learn how to re-center his balance. Now the happy go lucky hound is “the fastest dog at the dog park” and has built up his back leg muscles enough to race up and down stairs. To other owners of tripod dogs, Kate suggests, “let them be off the leash to run, jump around and play. Let them be and they will figure it out, and so will you!”
The duo are often stopped at the dog park or during their walks by those who marvel at Finn’s aptitude on only three legs. And while it’s nice to educate people on the wonderful life dogs with only three legs can live, and Kate enjoys encouraging people to adopt a tripod dog in need, it’s Kate’s life that has been changed the most. “His disability didn't change anything in my life, his attitude and kind nature did! He really makes me a happy person and I hope I make him a happy dog. We’re a good team.”
FinnPetie
Maureen Distler knows a thing or two about animals in need. She’s one of the volunteers behind Paws to the Rescue a special fund-raising and spay/neuter arm of the rural Marion County Animal Shelter. So Petie the deaf Pit Bull mix is quite fortunate that she met this wonderful lady. Maureen came to know Petie because the sweet dog had become the de facto “greeter” to those visiting the shelter facility. When word came the shelter was at capacity everyone was in a panic over Petie, who was deaf, a senior, a pit mix, allergic, heartworm positive and had already been in the facility for three months. She was sadly at serious risk of being chosen for euthanasia. “Next thing I knew, I was offering to adopt her. I didn’t even think about her being deaf,” says Maureen.
Now part of the Distler pack of 4 dogs, Petie adjusted very well into family life in nine short months. She picked up the rhythm of the house and is an integral part of the pack. “If the fridge door opens she’s there sometimes before the hearing dogs because she is so good at watching body language,” quips Distler.
When asked if the genetic deafness is a setback for Petie, Distler shakes her head in disagreement. “She does everything the hearing dogs do. I don’t see her deafness as a handicap, in fact many times it is beneficial. She is my parade pittie, my firework friend, my Ambassadog that can go almost anywhere." Maureen goes on to explain that Petie is very calm in public, does not react to loud noises or unexpected things, and loves people, especially kids. In fact, Petie is such a “good dog” that she recently obtained a Canine Good Citizen award. More impressively, as spokesdog for the Marion County Animal Shelter Spay and Neuter Program, she helped raise over $8000 for the community.
Truly, Petie and Maureen don’t see her deafness as a disability at all. “I tell people not to think about dogs being disabled. Just treat them as 'differ-abled' and make them part of the pack, whether you have one animal or many. Sometimes the most important lesson learned is the one that needs no explanation.”
Petie
In December of 2006, Pudge’s life changed forever. A neighboring dog jumped the fence, attacked the Pug and left him with severe injuries. One eye was punctured, the other scraped, his trachea was torn and he suffered many puncture wounds on his body. The punctured eye was removed and while veterinarians were able to save the other eye, Pudge had no vision in it. The road to recovery was long and hard, but Pudge persevered. Pudge’s owner Elizabeth Irwin jokes that once the Pug was off the feeding tube and could taste real food he returned to his usual happy self. Unfortunately, two years after the incident the remaining eye collapsed and had to be removed.
Since losing his sight, Pudge’s other senses have grown acutely stronger and Elizabeth explains that he has a keen understanding of what type of surface he is standing on, which helps him navigate the house and his backyard. He also memorizes the wall layout of rooms very quickly, a skill that enables him to move around without bumping into things. The most difficult part of adjusting to life after the attack and subsequent loss of vision was Pudge’s recurring nightmares. Elizabeth is sure he is reliving the attack during these episodes and it is often difficult to wake him for consolation.
Because Pudge is now 12, he’s begun to lose his hearing. The loss of a second crucial sense is opening up another set of challenges. At times Pudge descends into a depression which Elizabeth finds heartbreaking and very difficult to bear. “You wonder if he has finally given up on life,” explains Elizabeth. Fortunately some extra attention, belly rubs and special treats coax him back into happiness.
Elizabeth asserts that despite the physical challenges of owning a blind dog who is also becoming deaf, there are rewards in caring for Pudge. “He loves me more than anyone does. He knows that I saved him and he wants to be with me 24/7. That makes everything worth it.”
Pudge
Lowcountrydog 19
20 Lowcountrydog
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harlow
fluff
amy
beyonce
jellychancey
drake
peanut
c.c.
duran
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Upload photos of your happy hound at www.lowcountrydog.com/share/photo All breeds and mixed breeds accepted.
buttercup
rose
All photos in this Happy Hounds special edition taken by Laura Olsen Imagery
upcoming eventsevery saturday in the spring and summer. cas adoptable dogs at the marion square farmer’s market.
every saturday pet helpers adoptions at petco, west ashley .Pet Helpers will have animals available
for adoption at Petco in West Ashley. www.
pethelpers.org for more info.
every saturday cas adopt-a-thon at petsmart mt pleasant. The Charleston Animal Society will
have adoptable pets on site. www.
charlestonanimalsociety .org for more
info.
june 7th 4:00pm yappy hour james island county park. Free event! Join
us after work at the James Island County
Park dog park for live music and beverages
available for purchase. Outside alcohol or
coolers are prohibited. No pre-registration
required! Simply pay the gate admission
upon arrival. Free with regular park gate
admission.
june 9th 10:00am-2:00pm safety tails dog adoptathon. Adoptathon
aimed at safety held at Frances R. Willis
SPCA. www.summervillespca.org for more
info.
june 9th 11:00am to 2:00pm adopt-a-thon. All Is Well, Summerville, SC
Adoption counselors from the Francis
R. Willis SPCA are on hand to help
visitors find a new best friend. www.
summervillespca.org
june 9th 10:00am to 1:00pm rabies clinic at blessed sacrament catholic church. Vaccine and
microchip clinic for cats and dogs, open to
the public. Offered through Pet Helpers.
More info at www.pethelpers.org
june 10th cvrc/boo radley foundation dog day Game night. CVRC will be sponsoring the “Charleston
Veterinary Referral Center supports
the Boo Radley Foundation” Dog Day
game night at the Charleston Riverdogs
game the evening of June 10th. 3,000
baseball fans are welcome to bring their
dogs to the park that night, learn more
about the Boo Radley Foundation, meet
CVRC staff and hopefully, donate to the
foundation. Donations that come from
the Charleston region stay in Charleston
for the allocation and benefit of local
pet owners. Tickets can be purchased at
http://cr1.glitnirticketing.com/crticket/
web/logingroup1.php?refresh= Type in the
password “cvrc2012”.
june 16th 12:00pm to 3:00pm adopt-a-thon at petlovers warehouse. Summerville Meet foster dogs and
shelter dogs from Frances R. Willis SPCA
and adopt your new best friend. www.
summervillespca.org
june 16th 6:00pm-10pm sunny days rescue relief fundraiser at southend brewery. Silent
auction, celebrity bartender and much
more. Join us for a great night out to
benefit our rescue of the month..Furry
friends must stay at home. Click to www.
sunnydaysrescuerelief.org/ for more info.
june 23rd charleston beer garden 2012. Learn about craft brews,
check out the food truck rodeo, and enjoy
live music at Brittlebank Park! 10% of
the proceeds from the entire event go
to benefit the lifesaving work of Pet
Helpers. Avoid the online processing fee
by purchasing your tickets at Pet Helpers.
Stop by our location at 1447 Folly Road to
pick up yours today!
june 23rd 11:00am-2:00pm francis r willis spca pet smart adoptathon. 470 Azalea Square Blvd.
Summerville. 843-873-5918
june 30th 4:00pm-6:00pm free-furr-all toy breed play group. Fun & Socializing for Toy Breeds and
their Owners. Pet Emporium 1000 Johnnie
Dodds Blvd, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464. Please
RSVP 843.566.4377. More info at www.
toyplaygroup.com.
july 1st 2012 at 5:00pm red, white & blue on the green. Downtown
Summerville. Hutchinson Sq. Games, a
train ride, face-painting, and jump castles
& a watermelon-eating contest sponsored
by businesses & community org. Food
vendors on site. Costume contest for the
best patriotic garb. Decorated bicycles &
wagons & families & decorated pets parade
around the park & the most original &
best decorated and best pet entrants are
awarded prizes. For more info contact
821-7260 or http://dream.carolinakinetic.
info/Red-White-Blue-Green 200 S. Main
Street , Summerville, SC 29483
july 9th - 13th, and 23th-27th paws
summer camp. PAWS CAMP is for Middle
School-aged children looking to expand
their knowledge in the field of animal
welfare through hands-on learning and
activities at Pet Helpers. Call (843) 795 - 1110
for more information.
july 13th-15th pet smart mega adoption event. Ladson Fairgrounds
Exchange Building. Shelter Pets & Foster
Pets are welcome.
july 21th 11:00am-3:00pm francis r wllis spca adoptathon. Pet
Lovers Warehouse. 620 Bacons Bridge
Road Summerville, 843-695-1272. www.
summervillespca.org for more info.
july 28th 4:00pm-6:00pm free-furr-all toy breed play group. Fun & Socializing for Toy Breeds and
their Owners. Location TBA. Please
RSVP 843.566.4377. More info at www.
toyplaygroup.com.
july 28th 11:00am-2:00pm pet smart adoptathon, 470 Azalea
Square Blvd. Summerville, 843-873-5918.
www.summervillespca.org for more info.
Questions? Comments?Call 843-478-0266. Want to submit event information?Visit www.lowcountrydog.com and click on Add an Event. We will do our best to include your event as space allows. Our online calendar lists all events in full.
All photos in this Happy Hounds special edition taken by Laura Olsen Imagery
Pet lovers occasionally find themselves
wishing their pets could talk. It would
make our lives much easier (and much
more interesting). But since humans are
still unable to figure out what the common
bark stands for, we have to do our best in
preventative care to ensure the comfort of
our pets, starting with their tummy health.
There are options available for pet
owners to maintain their animal’s
digestive health. According to Dr.
Chris Bessent, Wisconsin veterinarian
and founder of Herbsmith, an herbal
supplement company for animals, a
daily digestive supplement is important
for even your average every day dog.
“We live in such a toxic world,”
Bessent said. They pick up toxins
in their food, from the grass, from
the ground, in their water source.”
These toxins, along with a
dog’s diet and stress level, have a strong
impact on its digestive system. Dogs
are naturally scavenger carnivorous
animals. Since they have been
domesticated and brought into the house
to eat dry food, their diets have changed.
According to Bessent, a daily digestive
supplement with a probiotic helps to keep
gut health at its fullest and to minimize
the amount of challenge on the immune
system from bad bacteria. “We always
want to keep good bacteria in their gut,”
Bessent said. “Bad bacteria changes the
bowel flora in the gut and can produce a
lot of gas.”
Dogs are stressed in general from
toxicity load, environmental stress or
being fed high grain or high carbohydrate
diets. Those sorts of things change the
good to bad ratio of bacteria in the gut,
Bessent said.
Ric Sommons, founder of Dolittle’s pet
stores, uses Herbsmith digestive products
with his own dogs and is impressed with
their digestive enzymes. “They are loaded
with microflora suitable for any diet; from
raw to commercial. I can definitely see
a difference in my dogs' digestion. It's
hard to say for sure, but I would guess that
when they are on the Microflora they are
only wasting (by wasting, I mean pooping)
about 10% of their food,” said Sommons.
In addition to just the everyday need for
a supplement, some dogs require a special
need for a digestive boost. For example,
a dog who is recovering from surgery or
who is on an antibiotic or a daily non-
steroidal anti-inflammatory will need a
good probiotic and prebiotic to help keep
the balance of bacteria in the gut healthy.
Dr. Gretchen Jaeger, owner of Prairie
Animal Hospital in North Prairie,
Wisconsin, said pets that have been on
medication for a while especially need
a probiotic in their diet because the
antibiotics kill off the normal bacteria level.
Jaeger said a dog in need of a digestive
supplement will exhibit signs such as soft
stool, mild diarrhea, vomiting, chronic
infection, and long-term antibiotic use.
According to Bessent, the best
digestive supplement is one that is all-
encompassing and includes probiotics,
prebiotics, digestive enzymes and herbs.
The key ingredient to a beneficial
digestive supplement is a good
probiotic. Probiotics are bacteria that
are beneficial for the digestive system.
One example of a probiotic is
lactobacillus acidophilus, which is able
to create lactic acid from fermenting
milk sugars. This aids in digestion
and helps encourage the absorption of
minerals and calcium. Lactobacillus
also has immunity boosting attributes.
Prebiotics are also good for the digestive
system. According to Bessent, a prebiotic
is a long chain sugar that feeds good
bacteria, encouraging the growth of
beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract.
In addition to probiotics and prebiotics,
key enzymes are a must in boosting your
pet’s digestive system. Digestive enzymes
break down the nutrients your pet eats.
“A dog that has any GI upset at all, by
adding a digestive enzyme, it helps them to
maximally utilize the food they take in,”
Bessent said. “Doing that helps to maintain
quality of life and support good health.”
According to Bower, most of the
basic dog food brands are depleted of
all their beneficial enzymes. “When
the food is baked at anything over 120
degrees, the enzyme activity is no longer
present in the dog food,” Bower said.
Examples of enzymes include protease
22 Lowcountrydog
Digestive
by Shannon Venegas
Continued on page 29
Health
Lowcountrydog 23
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Puppies are just being their exploratory
selves when they use their mouths to
explore, play and test their surroundings.
While bite inhibition training begins
when a puppy is with its litter, training
during puppyhood is vital. Puppies should
not be taken from their litter mates and
their dam before 8 weeks as valuable
lessons can be learned. If the puppy did
not get the training with litter mates and
its mom, you will have more work to do.
But with positive, consistent training, you
should be successful. Although nipping
and mouthing are normal behaviors for
puppies, it is a common complaint of
puppy owners.
Behavior problems can begin when the
nipping is treated like a hand-mouth game
(especially with children not properly
supervised) or with forceful methods
such as alpha rolls, electric collars, pinch
collars, choke chains, holding the mouth
closed, or slapping the puppy’s muzzle
to “correct” the situation. Some people
think the nipping is cute and laugh and
encourage it. These methods are not
approved by animal behaviorists and
trainers who use positive reinforcement.
Scientific studies have proven these
methods can promote aggression and
other unwanted behaviors.
You can eliminate mouthing and biting
with the following methods:
Teach mouth manners
Control the environment
Provide mental & physical exercise
It’s natural for teething puppies to
bite. They have no idea that biting can
hurt and won’t control their bite strength
unless taught. Schedule play dates with
appropriate puppies and patient, well-
socialized adult dogs who can help teach
your dog mouth manners.
You’ll want to have plenty of chew toys
available, especially if the dog is in the
puppy teething stage. You could wet a chew
toy rope, fill Kongs with peanut butter,
or soak an old washcloth in low-sodium
chicken broth and freeze for a treat. These,
along with ice cubes, can help during the
teething process. Pressed rawhide, bully
sticks, Nylabones, Boomer Balls, Buster
Cubes, Bob-a-lots, Squirrel Dudes, Floppy
Frisbees, Chuck-its and squeaky hedgehogs
(but don’t let pup get the squeaker out) are
some other suggestions. Good inside games
include playing hide and seek or playing
with boxes. Make sure you supervise your
puppy’s playtime and take the toys away
when they begin to fray.
You can use the frozen toys or any other
appropriate play toy, such as a ball, to
distract the dog’s attention. You can pet
with one hand and offer the chew toy with
the other. Alternate which hand offers the
toy and which one does the petting. The
dog will associate slow, gentle petting or
scratching behind the ear as pleasurable.
Do this as long as he is calm.
I find using a clicker to mark the
desired behavior is good. Clickers are
cheap and, when used properly, very
effective. First “charge the clicker.” Get
some yummy treats (like roasted chicken)
cut into the size of Tic Tacs. Click and give
your puppy a treat. Do this several times
until your puppy associates the click with
a treat. Then put your hand (palm side
close toward his nose) and click when
he touches. Do this with your hand in
different positions, but not too far from his
nose until he starts walking towards your
hand. Switch hands. Click and treat when
he touches, but don’t treat if he doesn’t
touch. When you know he understands
his nose is to touch your hand when you
put it out, you can add a cue word, such as
“touch.” Once he knows the cue, you can
use it to have him touch balls, boxes, and
other objects. This is the touch game.
If your dog nips you, you can say “ouch!”
in a loud, high pitched voice and remove
yourself from the play and ignore the dog.
You could also place him in “time-out” in
another room (possibly separated with
baby gate), tether him (in a puppy-proofed
area) or crate him for a few minutes
close by. Placing a chew toy in the crate
helps re-direct his teething instincts to
an appropriate outlet. Time with you can
continue when he is calm. He will learn
he gets to spend more time with you as he
learns to control his mouth.
Putting something like butter on your
hand can encourage licks instead of nips.
Use slow, gentle motions when petting.
Hand feeding your dog is another way
to improve your bond and gives you an
opportunity to reward him for using his
mouth politely. If you have an elderly
person in the home, they should wear
light gardening gloves when starting to
train a puppy and feeding by hand. Small
children should not hand feed as they
have not developed the appropriate motor
skills.
Control the environment so the puppy
only chews what and where you allow. You
may need to have some baby gates or an
exercise pen to prevent the puppy from
having full access to the house. When you
take him out of his controlled area, put a
leash on him so he won’t be able to go after
others and nip. Depending on his level of
obedience, you may need to keep hold of
the leash, or if he is learning to stay close,
drop the leash but keep him close.
24 Lowcountrydog
BiteInhibition
by Jill Lundgrin
photo by Flickr User: Tambako the Jaguar, Creative Commons
Continued on page 27
Lowcountrydog 25
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connect onlineHerbsmithinc.com | 800.624.6429
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Dolittle’s22 Windermere Blvd #F Charleston, SC
(843) 852-5811
Sun Dog Cat Moon Vet Clinic2908 A Maybank Highway Johns Island, SC
(843)437-0063
Available at HolisticAnimalSupply.com,
And independent retailers nationwide.
at Herbsmithinc.com/Microfloracompare
How do you combine an interest in science
and a love of animals and people alike
into a career? By becoming a veterinary
technician. And one of the few places
in the country that you can pursue an
education to help make that happen is in
our own backyard.
Vet techs do much more than hold
animals and give shots. They prepare the
animals for surgery, perform laboratory
procedures, take X-rays, apply splints,
record administrative information, and
obtain specimens, among many other
things. A vet tech can do everything a vet
can do except diagnose, perform surgery,
and prescribe medications. And it’s a
growing profession.
What does it take to be a good vet tech?
People who would make good vet techs are
compassionate, good with people as well as
animals, have a foundation in science or
biology, and must be good communicators.
“Veterinary practices look for well rounded
people who can handle the animals and
explain the issues compassionately to
the pets’ owners,” says Trident Technical
College vet tech program director Dr. Paul
Kerwin, DVM.
In the 12 years since Trident Tech started
its vet tech program, Dr. Kerwin reports
he has seen a shift in the field recognizing
the value of the profession. “Veterinary
practices are being more selective in
their hiring and are looking for licensed
veterinary technicians who hold degrees
from an accredited school. These are the
most desirable hires not just for private
practice, but for specialty clinics and
within the industry.”
The profession holds opportunities
not just in the Lowcountry but across the
United States. According to the Bureau
of Labor Statistics, “employment of
veterinary technologists and technicians
is expected to grow 52 percent from 2010
to 2020, much faster than the average
for all occupations. Job opportunities are
expected to be excellent, particularly in
rural areas.”
Employers are looking for the skills
and dedication of licensed, degreed vet
techs. Veterinary technicians are required
to take continuing education courses
to keep their certifications current. Job
satisfaction is reported to be higher with
graduates from the program versus those
who learn on the job.
Completing the Trident Tech Veterinary
Technology program shows dedication and
accomplishment. Its curriculum provides
opportunities for careers in research
laboratories and pharmaceutical and
veterinary supply businesses in addition
to general practices, specialty practices
and emergency clinics. It opens doors
for the vet tech when applying for jobs,
yields a better salary, and results in lower
turnover in practices that hire licensed
vet techs.
“The hands-on, real-life experience
I received attending Trident Tech's Vet
Tech Program more than prepared me
to pass the national Vet Tech licensing
exam, and to be highly competitive in
the field,” explains Jessica Claflin, a
Licensed Veterinary Technician and
recent graduate of the program.
Trident Tech’s Veterinary Technology
Program, accredited by the American
Veterinary Medical Association, is one
of 165 in the country offering students
an option to become a licensed vet tech.
The program graduates AHTs (Animal
Health Technicians) who receive an
associate degree in applied science. The
Trident Tech program stays current
with hands-on labs and guest lecturers
from industry and our local community.
Their state of the art surgery center has
cameras focused on the operating table
and amphitheater style seating behind
glass so 26 students can observe.
Their program has an emphasis on
small animal medicine (cats and dogs)
although they study everything from mice
to livestock. They offer two options—a
three-year part time program or two-year
full time program—and only 32 students
total are admitted to these two programs
per year.
The program at Trident Tech receives
excellent support from the Charleston
community, and the students also give
back. The program takes in what are
generally less likely to be adopted dogs
and cats from the Berkeley County SPCA
and that gives students an opportunity to
learn hands-on while improving the lives
of these animals. The students and faculty
at the program pursue the appropriate
diagnostics and provide the necessary
medical and surgical care, when possible,
to make that animal healthier, happier
and ultimately more adoptable. It really is
a “win – win” for all involved.
We are fortunate here in the Lowcountry
to have such a respected program at Trident
Tech, one of three in the state, and it’s just
one of the many opportunities available.
Vet tech jobs are in demand nationally
and many of the up and coming people
entering the field learned their skills right
up the street at the Trident Tech Berkeley
campus in Moncks Corner.
26 Lowcountrydog
Vet Tech Training
at Tridenttext by Jennifer Heisler
Continued from page 24
Thinking about adding a furry member to your family?
Pet Helpers Adoption Events
Every Weekend at
12pm - 4pm975 Savannah Highway, Charleston(843) 852-4563 wwww.petco.com
To find out more about Pet Helpers and the animals available for adoption go to www.pethelpers.org
Children, even elementary-aged, should
not be left alone with dogs, even with you in
the kitchen while you are looking at them
in the living room. You need to be beside
them to supervise, especially puppies and
children. Using quick hand motions in
front of a dog’s face can be scary for the
dog and encourage nipping and biting.
Running around, screaming, squealing,
and pushing a dog away can excite a pup to
nip – as will grabbing something from the
dog’s mouth.
Provide positive training and
socialization. Basic training should include
sit, stay, come and politely walk by your
side. The American Veterinary Society of
Animal Behavior is in favor of enrolling
your puppy in a quality puppy class as
young as 8 weeks. The association also
endorses trainers who use clicker training.
Trainers, such as myself, can come to your
home if you prefer not to attend a class.
Your puppy will be in training the rest
of his life. He will be training you or you
will be training him throughout his life
as he ages and you encounter different
situations. It’s okay if your dog needs
more than one training session. Dogs, like
people, learn at different paces. If a dog
has had a bad start in life, he may need
several puppy classes to help him progress.
Your puppy needs plenty of exercise.
Just putting them in the back yard is not
enough. Besides, they can pick up some
nasty behaviors that can be a challenge to
change. Other than playing inside and out,
take him for short, frequent walks. If this
isn’t possible, have a neighbor or qualified
dog walker help, or let him spend a few
hours at a doggy daycare.
In addition to exercise, dogs need plenty
of mental stimulation to keep them from
becoming bored and doing things they
shouldn’t. We are blessed to have some
trainers, dog facilities and clubs that
provide opportunities to work the brain.
Working, hound and terrier breed dogs,
especially, need the mental and physical
activities. For less than $40 you can
register your mixed breed dog with the
American Kennel Club and have access to
rally, obedience and agility venues.
Learn more about Jill & Coastal Canine
Academy at www.coastalcanineacademy.com
Lowcountrydog 27
Continued from page 24
28 Lowcountrydog
My name is Pepper. I am 19 pounds of pure happiness. I am approximately two years old and I am a small cattle dog mix. I en-joy sitting on the couch and being petted. I listen really well and I know my manners. I am house-trained and crate trained too. I am spayed, microchipped, and up to date on all of my shots. I get along with children, other dogs and even cats. If you would like to meet me, please call my foster parents at 843-821-2973.
Ivy is a charming Southern belle. Ivy is part American bulldog and almost two years old. She has beautiful manners and is very loving and friendly. She lives with three other dogs and two cats. She is house trained, crate trained, can be trusted in the house by herself. She sleeps in her own bed, is not a barker and she does not dig in the yard. Call her foster parents are 843-873-5918 or e-mail [email protected]
Rebel is a very youthful 5 year old, neutered male American Staffordshire Terrier mix. Rebel is a very sweet boy and loves kisses. He is house trained, lived with 2 other dogs, and loves attention. Please come and visit Rebel. He is looking for a loving and forever home! Rebel knows all his basic commands and is crate trained. He loves to chill in front of the TV as well as go for fun play periods and walks. Rebel weighs 57 lbs.
Halin is a beautiful black lab mix. Halin is a very smart young girl. She is 1 1/2 years old. Halin is a very obedient dog; she comes when she is called and she rides very nicely in the car. Halin likes people and she is very friendly. If you are interested in Halin, please call 843-695-1272 or e-mail [email protected].
Frances R Willis SPCAThe Frances R. Willis SPCA will strive to instill humane
principles into society through the prevention of
cruelty to animals.
The FRWSPCA will feed the hungry, shelter the
homeless, reunite lost pets with owners, and through
adoptions, find homes for as many stray animals as
possible.
The FRWSPCA will practice animal kindness, fight
overpopulation by encouraging spaying and neutering,
and champion responsible pet ownership through
public education.
We are always in need of volunteers, donations, and
foster homes!
To learn more contact us at:
(843) 871-3820
www.summervillespca.org
Or visit our facility at:
136 Four Paws Lane
Summerville, SC 29483
adoption
Barney Beagle arrived at the shel-ter in February. He was found by someone while he was wandering around their neighborhood and Barney was then dropped off at the shelter. No one came to claim Barney which is surprising be-cause he is an entertaining fellow He weighs approximately 48 lbs and he is approximately 4 years old. When he was at the shelter, he became a favorite of the staff.
Boñita is a 1 year old 30 pound English Bulldog mix. Bonita has a lot of energy. She would be a great companion but she has ten-dencies that indicate that she may not do well with small children or other animals smaller than she is. Bonita is always happy to greet but does need some leash training. She is crate-trained and housebroken.
Continued from page 22
Lowcountrydog 29
which breaks down protein and amylase
which breaks down carbohydrates.
Protease digests proteins so amino acids
can be absorbed by the intestinal wall.
Lipase is another important enzyme
that breaks down fats to be absorbed by
the intestines. It also helps in reducing
gas and bloating. In addition, there are
certain herbs that can be beneficial for the
digestive system. According to Bessent,
cinnamon, ginger, and licorice balance
sugar metabolism and balance the gut
while promoting bowel health.
Cinnamon is known to relieve nausea
and vomiting. It also has been known to
warm and stimulate the digestive system.
Ginger is also helpful for discomfort
after eating and has been used to treat
gastrointestinal issues. Licorice is
especially helpful in increasing the flow
of bile. It can be used for heartburn and
irritation in the digestive tract. Overall,
these safe herbs are helpful to maintain
G.I. health.
Another important factor to remember
when choosing the right digestive
supplement is the number of colony
forming units (CFUs) per serving in the
product. CFUs are determined by taking a
sample of the powder and observing how
many colonies of live bacteria are formed
per gram in one day. Ideally, one serving
of a supplement should contain at least
ten billion CFUs.
The other thing to consider when
shopping for a digestive supplement is the
way it is stored. Moisture activates the
growth of these good bacteria. Digestive
supplements packaged in powder form
in a container hold live bacteria when
they are opened, but lose their affect by
the time they are half gone. Digestive
supplements containing microorganisms
that are blister-packed in a capsule keep
the formula safe and alive until it enters
the pet’s system.
Even though our animals cannot tell us
when their tummies are upset, pet owners
can do their best to prevent discomfort. A
dog’s stomachs can be upset just as often
as a human’s, and it is important to pay
attention to the warning signs to prevent a
problem before it occurs. A good probiotic
and prebiotic along with beneficial herbs
and enzymes are essential to promoting
digestive health.
Jill Lundgrin, trainer843-607-7193
www.CoastalCanineAcademy.com
• Positive Trainer • Behavior Consultant• In Home and Class Training• Clicker Method • American Red Cross Pet CPR and First Aid Instructor• Full Member of APDT
photo by EuroMagic
sniff us out online
training articleshealth & wellness advice
new eulogy sectionfeatures on cool local dogs
adoptable dogs
NEW CONTENT EVERY DAY.
lowcountrydog.com
Continued from page 22
Daniel Island Animal Hospital
Lynne M. Flood, DVM Bridget E. Luke, DVM Allison Chappell, DVM
Katherine Rainwater, DVM
Wellness Care • Emergencies • Personalized Service Dogs, Cats, and Small Mammals • Dog/Cat Grooming
Daniel Island Animal Hospital 291 Seven Farms Drive Ste 103
Daniel Island, SC 29492
(843) 881.7228 • www.danielislandvet.com
30 Lowcountrydog
Dr. Danielle Cain, DVMOPEN Weekends!
8389 Dorchester Road • Charleston, SC 29418 843.552.8278 • theanimalhospital.net
Dorchester Rd.
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Ultrasound SOLUTIONSOF CHARLESTON
Mobile Veterinary ULTRASOUND
Pleasant Pet Services, LLCPersonalized care with hugs,
love and belly rubs!Dog Walking Pet Sitting Pet Taxi
Overnights in your HomeCall Chris Maltese 843-412-1485Serving Mt. Pleasant,
Daniel Island & Hanahan
www.pleasantpetservices.com
“The best doggone place for yo�pooch to play and stay!”
“The best doggone place for yo�pooch to play and stay!”
1032A LeGrand Blvd • Daniel Island off Clements Ferry 843-884-5434 • www.PlayInTheDogHouse.com
* Luxury Canine Boarding* Book a Grooming Appointment with
Our All-Breed Groomer Tami!*Lowest Daycamp Rates in Charleston
843.471.2275 (BARK)2471 Clements Ferry Road
Happy Hour! 50¢ Off All Domestic Beer and Cocktails
Yappy Hour.Perfect for you & yourpooch! The 2nd Wed.of Every Month!
A Local Favorite!Voted Best Waterfront Bar 2004 - 2010 andBest Mt. Pleasant Bar 2007 - 2010
Nightly Features!Crab Legs, Local Shrimp, Oyster Roasts & More!
2 Red,s Are Better Than 1!
Live MusicThroughout
the Week!
Mt. PleasantLocated On
Historic Shem CreekEst. 2 0 0 4
SeabrookBohicket MarinaOpening Spring
2 0 1 0
Diverse menu featuring fresh, local seafood and plenty of delicious land lover options.
Come for the View. Stay for the Food!
Mt. Pleasant • On Historic Shem Creek • 98 Church St. • 843.388.0003 ◆ w w w. r e ds i c e h ouse . comSeabrook • Bohicket Marina • 1882 Andell Bluff Blvd. • 843.518.5515 ◆ As Local As You Can Get.
