While we have just added a host of youngsters to the pack,
we also have a growing group of senior citizens out there and I wish to address
an issue that they have that they can’t tell you about - chronic pain.
Now, I live with chronic pain. Pain is not conducive to healing. In fact, it is
counterproductive to healing. The chemicals one’s body makes in response
to pain rob the body of oxygen and a plethora of needed proteins. The oxygen
deficit leaves muscles to collect toxins normally respired away.
The old saw that pain will keep an injured creature from overusing the injured
part is specious. Instead of “resting” the injured part, the work
is distributed among remaining parts (hence limping) thus straining once
healthy parts.
Pain is bad. Period.
Your dog is “wired” to hide his pain. By the time he is showing
symptoms, he has been in pain for sometime and the pain has escalated beyond
his ability to cope with it. If you have built a trusting relationship with
your dog, once you begin to treat your dog’s pain, he will learn that you
can help and he will actually ASK when he needs help.
Many of the same things that work for us will work for our aging dogs. A
heating pad on those days when joints are stiff. Aspirin therapy combined with
glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM will keep inflammation low, reduce pain and
help heal decaying synovial fluid and cartilage. Gentle, regular exercise is
essential. Lucky us, many of our dogs love water. Swimming is excellent
exercise for arthritic bodies but walking is also important. Weight bearing
exercise, in moderation, encourages the corrective effect of the G/C/MSM.
Swimming is not weight bearing and it is anaerobic. Aerobic activity, such as
walking, is needed to help the body respire the toxins from the muscles.
Do not allow your old dog to just lay around. While resting in a single
position removes sudden triggers for sharp pain, it enhances inflammation and
tension in the soft tissue making movement HARDER over time. If you don’t
use it, you lose it. Slow, steady and gentle exercise is the key to continued
mobility.
Rimadyl should be reserved for short usage (acute trauma pain). Continued use
of Rimadyl can cause all sorts of problems. But using it for acute pain over
short duration, such as following an injury or surgery, helps more than it
hurts. The old “cost:benefit” scenario. New research into opiates
is being conducted but animals do not react to opiates as we do so do your dog
a favor and keep your codeine and darvosets locked away. They won’t help.
Massage is a wonderful thing. I recommend daily massage of your creatures from
the first day that they enter your home, be they human or other. Acupuncture
has been shown to work remarkably well on dogs but finding a knowledgeable
practitioner is not always easy. The acupressure points on a dog are not the
same as those on a human. Acupressure courses for animal caregivers are offered
through some of the holistic dog care clubs that have online websites - a
wonderful vacation idea!
Poor old Teddy “loses” his hips pretty regularly. He has learned to
ask for a massage when he has problems. Actually, he doesn’t ask, he
insists. You’d think he was a Golden instead of an aged Sheltie. The
difference in his mobility on days when his humans have forgotten his meds and
days when they haven’t is more than remarkable, it is amazing. He has
gone from wanting to do nothing but lie on a rug to knocking the other dogs
down to be first to catch the ring or ball - just on G/C and aspirin therapy!
Pain management is essential to a happy, healthy elder dog. Or human.
Do not give Tylenol. Acetaminophen is poisonous to dogs and cats. Ibuprofen has
no history among animal care and so should also be avoided. When using aspirin
therapy for chronic pain, use a coated form - some have sugar coatings, some
are actually coated with Maalox (to help prevent irritation of the stomach.
Always give aspirin therapy with food.
Pat O’Malley is housekeeper to two tabbies, a Papillon
and a Shetland Sheepdog and is anxiously
awaiting a Leonberger. She lives in south Central Pennsylvania and has been
described, since age eighteen, as an over-educated intellectual. She prefers to
think of herself as endlessly curious. The furbies can be viewed at
http://www.whiskers100.com/shines/mioshi/
Below find a very interesting article that was sent to me by a friend who noticed it in the February issue of DVM NewsMagazine (www.dvmnewsmagazine.com). It is posted on their website. The complete article takes a little searching to find. — Caryl Thompson
Vaccination Newsflash: I would like to make you aware that all 27 veterinary
schools in North America are in the process of changing their protocols for
vaccinating dogs and cats. Some of this information will present an ethical
& economic challenge to vets, and there will be skeptics. Some
organizations have come up with a political compromise suggesting vaccinations
every 3 years to appease those who fear loss of income vs. those concerned
about potential side effects. Politics, traditions, or the doctor’s
economic well-being should not be a factor in medical decision.
New Principles Of Immunology: Dogs and cats immune systems mature fully at 6
months. If a modified live virus (MLV) vaccine is given after 6 months of age,
it produces immunity, which is good for the life of the pet (ie: canine
distemper, parvo, feline distemper). If another MLV vaccine is given a year
later, the antibodies from the first vaccine neutralize the antigens of the
second vaccine and there is little or no effect. The titer is not
“boosted” nor are more memory cells induced. Not only are annual
boosters for parvo and distemper unnecessary, they subject the pet to potential
risks of allergic reactions and immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia. There is no
scientific documentation to back up label claims for annual administration of
MLV vaccines.
• Puppies receive antibodies through their mothers milk. This natural protection can last 8-14 weeks. Puppies & kittens should not be vaccinated at LESS than 8 weeks. Maternal immunity will neutralize the vaccine and little protection (0-38%) will be produced.
• Vaccination at 6 weeks will, however, delay the timing of the first highly effective vaccine.
• Vaccinations given 2 weeks apart suppress rather than stimulate the immune system.
• A series of vaccinations is given starting at 8 weeks and given 3-4 weeks apart up to 16 weeks of age.
• Another vaccination given sometime after 6 months of age (usually at 1 year 4 mo) will provide lifetime immunity.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) has learned that as of
February 15, 2003 United Airlines eliminated the restrictions against shipment
of dogs that were imposed in June of 2000, and again allow them to be shipped
as either excess baggage, cargo or carry-on.
“The many letters written to
United by dedicated fanciers played a significant role in prompting
United’s decision,” said Noreen Baxter, AKC’s VP of Public
Education and Legislation. “We are extremely pleased with this
turnaround. The ability to travel with their dogs is crucial for both pet
owners and fanciers.”
“The AKC Canine Legislation
department staff has worked tirelessly to reverse the embargo since it was imposed
three years ago,” said Patti Strand, member of the AKC Board of
Directors. “The work of our contacts in Washington and strong opposition
against these restrictions from the fancy has brought about a very positive
action by United Airlines.”
This appeared in The Country Critter Journal (A local paper serving Northeast Ohio). “Truman” is a Golden Retriever columnist.
“I am just a dog. I do not care what you look like. I do not care if the mortgage is late, the bills are paid, or of the stock market crashes. I don’t care if it’s sunny or raining outside, my day is the same either way.
“I will try to be a good dog. I need you to teach me your rules. I am not a mind reader, although I can read your body language and emotions very well. I need you to feed me, love me and play with me.
“I cannot give you a new car, home or money in return. I can give you an unbreakable bond of unconditional love. Whether you are happy, sad, or angry. I will be there. I promise to be glad to see you, even if only five minutes have passed.
“When the time comes that you must say good-bye to me, don’t grieve for me. Rejoice in the memory of my spirit that has been given to you. We will meet again at the Rainbow Bridge when your time comes, and you can once again throw the ball for me. I will come bounding back to see your face. I am not just a dog, I am your dog!”
1. Thoroughly clean the toilet.
2. Lift the lid and add shampoo.
3. Find and soothe cat as you carry it to the bathroom.
4. In one swift move, place cat in the toilet. Close the lid and stand on top so cat cannot escape.
5. The cat will self-agitate and produce ample suds. (Ignore ruckus from inside toilet, cat is enjoying this.)
6. Flush toilet three or four times. This provides a power rinse which is quite effective.
7. Stand as far from toilet as possible and quickly lift the lid.
8. Clean cat will rocket out of the toilet and outdoors where it will air dry.
q Maggie Hayes reports, “Jessie (OTCh UOCH SR Jessie Bear UDX JH WC OBHF) and I were chosen Obedience Team of the Year for 2002 by the Golden Retriever Club of Tidewater Virginia. This was the first year this award was presented. Quite an honor!”
q Lisa Mann and Janet Rountree’s Golden Retriever, U-CH Lycinan Famis Window Display “Macy”, earned her first Champion Class win towards her UKC Grand Champion title on February 22 at the Tidewater Performance Dog Club conformation show.
q Caryl Thompson is shocked but pleased to report that her Leonberger Tonka earned his first leg towards his UCD their very first trial February 23. And since the qualifying group was so small (2, including us!), he managed to get first place in this Novice A class as well. Miracles do happen!
q Jackie Kirkman’s GSP, The Flashman, earned his 6th Master Std. leg and his 8th and 9th Master Jumper legs at the AKC Agility Trial in Baltimore on February 1 & 2.
q Sharon Wright’s Razor, BC, was in the UKC trials at Merrimac the weekend of February 22 & 23. It was his first time in Open A. At Saturday’s 1st trial they had a 1981⁄2 for 1st place and garnering high in trial!! At the second trial they earned a 198 another 1st place and another high in trial!! Way to go, team! They returned for Sundays trial and earned another 1st place with 1981⁄2, missing a third HIT by 1/2 point. What a debut for a team in Open. Hope they do as well for their AKC open title! Congratulations, team Sharon and Razor. Submitted by your friends, Janice & Say
q Denise Call also has much to brag about! February was a busy but great month:
o At the Dulles Gateway UKC Obedience Trial on February 2, UAG1 UCD CH Calla’s La Femme Nikita “Niki” CD CGC TDI got her first leg towards her CDX with first place in Open A class with a 1931⁄2. She also went High Scoring Golden Retriever in Trail! What a girl! “Blonde dogs do it with panache!”
o UAG1 UCD UCH Calla's LaFemme Nikita “Niki” CD CGC TDI took her second leg in open a with a second place and a score of 191 on Sunday, February 23, 2003 at Tidewater Dog Performance Club’s show at Merrimac. She came in second to Sharon Wright's Razor who took first place.
UCH Calla's Izzy My Valentine “Tank” became a Grand Champion on Sunday by taking a Best
of Breed at Tidewater Dog Performance Club’s first multi-breed
conformation show. Way to go, Tank!
Tidewater Dog Performance Club www.tdpc-hjjdogs.com
American Kennel Club: www.akc.org
Canine Freestyle Federation: www.canine-freestyle.org
Clean Run (agility information): www.cleanrun.com
DASH (District Area Sighthound Assn.) (Lure Coursing): www.coursing.com/coursing/index.html
InfoDog: www.infodog.com
International Weight Pull Association: www.iwpa.net
North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association www.navhda.org
Tidewater Dog Performance Club: www.tdpc-hjjdogs.com
United Kennel Club: www.ukcdogs.com
Working Retriever Central (hunting & field trial info): www.working-retriever.com
American Veterinary Medical Assn.: www.avma.org
Association of Pet Dog Trainers: www.apdt.org
Carting information: www.cartingwithyourdog.com
The Dogpatch (General Info): www.dogpatch.org
Dogwise (Books, videos & more): www.dogwise.com
North American Flyball Assn.: www.flyball.org
Orthopedic Foundation for Animals: www.offa.org (check out their genetic databases where you can sort by breed!)
Two Dog Press (books
& fun stuff): www.twodogpress.com
q March 8th & 9th: Hampton, VA Belroi Agility Club - 3 UKC Obedience trials - Pre-entry closed Feb. 28th. Contact Fay Smith at 804-776-9289
q March 20th, 22nd, & 23rd: Raleigh, NC Alamance, Durham, Raleigh & Fayetteville Kennel Clubs - 4 AKC Obedience trials Pre-entry closes March 5th. Contact Moss Bow at 336-379-9352
q March 23rd: Gloucester, VA Belroi Agility Club - Agility show & go - Contact Sam Banks at 804-785-7208
q March 29th & 30th: Berryville, VA Blue Ridge Dog Training Club - AKC agility trials - Pre-entry closes March 12th. Contact Debbie Kaufman at 304-229-9194
q April 5th & 6th: Gloucester, VA Merrimac Dog Training Center - 2 AKC Agility trials - Closes March 21st. Contact Aleta Channell at 757-488-1366
q April 12th & 13th: Gloucester, VA Hampton Roads Obedience Training Club - 2 AKC agility trials Pre-entry closes March 22nd. Contact Jean Watkins at 757-857-7419
q April 14th & 15th: Fredericksburg, VA Greater Fredericksburg Kennel Club - AKC Obedience trials - Closes March 26th. Contact Moss Bow at 336-379-9352
q April 17th: Frederick, MD Catoctin Kennel Club of Northern Virginia - AKC Obedience trial - Closes April 2nd. Contact Jim Rau Dog Shows at 610-376-1880
q April 19th: Leesburg, VA Old Dominion Kennel Club of Northern Virginia - AKC Obedience trial - Closes April 2nd. Contact Moss Bow at 336-379-9352
q April 19th - 24th & 26/27th: Sanford, NC NADAC Fundraiser/Judging Evaluation trial. Contact Sharon Nelson at sharon@nadac.com
q April 26th & 27th: Lynchburg, VA Dog Training Club of Lynchburg - 2 AKC agility trials Pre-entry closes April 7th. Contact Judy Smotrel at 434-384-3117
q May 3rd & 4th: Gloucester, VA Belroi Agility Club & Tidewater Dog Performance Club - 4 UKC agility trials - Pre-entry closes April 23rd. Contact Pam Wilson at agiledog@juno.com
q May 17th & 18th: Gloucester, VA Gloucester Kennel Club of Virginia - 2 AKC Agility trials - Closes April 30th. Contact Nelson Fletcher at 804-693-2167
q May 23rd - 26th : Williamsburg, VA Tidewater, Virginia Beach, Langley, & Gloucester Kennel Clubs - 4 AKC Obed trial - Closes May 7th. Contact Moss Bow at 336-379-9352
Top
April 19th: Portsmouth Armory Registration will begin at 11:00 AM; run throughs will begin at 12:00 noon. $5 per run through. There will be 2 rings running the necessary classes. Bring a blank VHS video tape to record your performance for later review.
March 8th: Earlysville, VA — “The Power of Positive Dog Training,” a full-day seminar with Pat Miller. Includes clicker training, tricks, and problem solving - participant questions requested. Sponsored by Canine Campus. For detailed info and to register online see www.CanineCampus.com or call 434-973-1050.
March 8th & 9th: Chesapeake, VA — Care and Conditioning of the Performance Dog Topics include chiropractic, acupuncture, massage, nutrition, pain management, physical therapy, injury prevention. Presented by Dr. John Sherman DVM, Dr. Regina Schwabe DVM and Fran D’Amico. Dogs welcome. For more information, contact Brenda Hux 252-465 4304 or cameo@surfnetnc.com.
March 10th & 11th: Salisbury, NC — The agility guru Steve Frick will be in Salisbury NC (45 minutes North of Charlotte, and 45 minutes South of Winston-Salem) at TCB Farm for a day of private lessons and a one day seminar. Please contact Meagan Skelton at 704-645-0404 or tcb_bc@bellsouth.net for more information. You can get more information and Steve’s Bio at www.command-performances.com
April 21st & 22nd: Richmond, VA — All Dog Playskool will be hosting a Guy Blancke Agility Seminar, limited to the first 12 dogs to register. Saturday is for novice handlers, and is open to dogs ready to compete at the novice and open levels. Sunday is for advanced handlers, and is open for dogs working at the advanced or masters level. For details contact Amy Yoho, 540-894-8351, or e-mail chili624@aol.com
May 10th-13th: Roanoke, VA — Saint Francis of Assisi Service Dog Foundation presents a four-day conference with Chris Bach and The Third Way. Days one and two: Foundation games, theories and techniques. Days three and four: “Try Me” ideas and techniques for service dog training. For information, please check The Third Way’s website at: www.trainthethirdway.com or contact Karen Hough at (540)342-3647 or SFOATD@msn.com.
May 24th-26th: Blacksburg, VA — Hi-D-Ho Dog Training club is hosting a “Training Handlers to Handle Agility” workshop. This workshop is for people who want to learn about developing successful course strategies, communicating with their dog on the course, and planning effective training sessions. It focuses on handling skills using lectures, video analysis, and handler exercises. It also covers performance enhancement, physical conditioning, and how dogs learns. Taught by Gayle Watkins and Rosie Higdon. The cost has not yet been announced, but contact Rosie Higdon at 540-552-9112 or e-mail hidho@hi-d-ho-dogtraining.com for details
May 9th: Virginia Beach, VA — K-9 Karnvial at Red Wing Park This event showcases the 2003 Skyhoundz Local Championships, canine disc contest, and the 12th annual Dog-Gonest Dog Show. There will also be canine demonstrations, exhibits, and vendors selling doggie-related items. Free admission and on-site parking. Call Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation at 427-2990 for more information.
The Portsmouth Chesapeake Obedience Training Club, Inc. is a nonprofit organization composed of people who enjoy working and spending time with their dogs. We are interested in helping you train your dog to be a well mannered family member and a source of pride.
President:
David Hamel
757-478-6913 president@pcotcdogs.org
Vice President:
Marie
Stuart
757-465-5099 vpresident@ pcotcdogs.org
Treasurer:
Cathy
Broyles
757-488-8752
treasurer@pcotcdogs.org
Corresponding Secretary:
Cristy Broyles
csecretary@pcotcdogs.org
Recording Secretary:
Kendall
Owens
252-771-3034
rsecretary@pcotcdogs.org
Board Members:
Lovey Lyons 757-657-6564
board1@pcotcdogs.org
Denise Call 757-558-1120
board2@pcotcdogs.org
Mary Ann Maegher
board3@pcotcdogs.org
Leslie Wemoff
757-465-0456
board4@pcotcdogs.org
We make every effort to distribute The PUP the first Wednesday of each month. In order to help us make this deadline, please submit information by the 25th of the previous month. Please send any submissions for The PUP to
Caryl Thompson
757-631-0712
pupeditor@pcotcdogs.org