PetTales

MESSENGER POST MEDIA

AUTUMN EDITION

Advertising supplement for September 24, 2015

2 PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

Feeding your RUSSIAN TORTOISE [Testudo horsfieldii]

a quick guide to tortoise nutrition
Russian or Horsfields tortoises are strict vegans
and require fresh greens and veggies every day.
As a general rule, you should feed your tortoise
a pile of fresh greens about the size of their shell
every day, so as not to overfeed them. Be sure
that the food is fresh and the old food is removed
daily to avoid attracting flies and spoilage. Fruit
is high in sugar and should be avoided, or given
as a special treat on rare occasions.
Below is a basic list of items that are acceptable
to feed your tortoise on a regular basis:
Romaine Lettuce
Curly/Frisee/Red Leaf Lettuce
Watercress
Radicchio
Chicory/Endive/Escarole
Flowers: Dandelions, Hibiscus, Hostas, Roses
Zucchini
Yellow Summer Squash, Butternut Squash
Mustard Greens, Dandelion Greens
Clover, Grasses: Timothy, Orchard, Meadow
Fresh Herbs: Parsley, Basil, Coriander, Dill
Cucumber
Green bean
Use sparingly:
Apple
Banana
Tomato
Strawberry
Asparagus
Carrot
Be sure to avoid:
Spinach, Kale (high in phosphorus)
Rhubarb, Celery
Currants
Iceberg Lettuce
Avocado
Eggplant

Peppers
Citrus fruits
Beans, Peas
Onion, Garlic
Mushrooms
Cauliflower, Broccoli,
Cabbage
Parsnip, Potato, Sweet
Potato, Beets
Corn, Cereals, Meat,
Dairy Products, and
Ashley Forti,
Processed Food of
BVMS MRCVS
Any Kind
Veterinary Specialists
Remember, variety is
& Emergency Services
important as all vegetables Monroe Veterinary Associates
have different amounts
of nutrients; a varied diet
is more balanced than just feeding one type of food.
Although the key to a healthy diet is variety, make
sure not to change your tortoises diet too suddenly
and introduce new food gradually. Tortoises also need
additional calcium and vitamin supplementation that
can be lightly sprinkled on top of their food. Be sure
to consult your local exotics veterinarian regarding

which brands of dietary supplements to use, as well

as, the quantity and frequency in which you should
add this to your tortoises diet. You can also ask about
the appropriate heat source, substrate and type of
enclosure to promote maximum wellness for your
new scaly companion. Your veterinarian can also
monitor your pets weight and health to make sure
youre on the right track.

AND DONT FORGET ...

Contrary to popular belief, the water in your tortoises
food is not enough to sustain them! It is very important
to provide your tortoise with a shallow water dish in
their enclosure.
Just make sure that the water level isnt too high that
your tortoise can fall in and drown. The water should
be deep enough that they can dunk their head under
the water but shallow enough that it doesnt go above
their shoulders. Also make sure that there is a gradual
incline or a short edge into the water container. This
will allow your tortoise to easily get in and out of the
water without assistance and without knocking over
their water dish. Remember, tortoises need clean,
fresh water, so be sure to clean their water dish daily.
Continued on Page 11...

Large Shooting Star

wooden bird toy

products for your

This hanging wooden toy is designed to stimulate

physically, challenge mentally, and entertain
endlessly. Enjoy watching your bird play, chew and
hide for hours. Constructed with colorful assorted
wooden stars and strung with leather. Easy to
install with hardware provided. Small $12.99,
Large $19.99 at www.drsfostersmith.com

4 PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

HOLIDAY DANGERS for pets

The rapidly approaching holiday season should
Electrical cords pose a serious threat to pets
be a wonderful and festive time for families
who love to chew. Electrocution can cause
and pets. However, this joyous time of year
burns to the mouth as well as death. Batteries
may contain many dangers for our four-legged
used to power all sorts of gift gadgets can burn
friends. Pet owners should take special care to
the mouth if punctured or become lodged in
keep pets safe during the holidays. Be aware
the esophagus.
of the most important dangers, hopefully
Toxins can be located outside the home as well.
preventing a trip to the veterinary emergency
Anti-freeze is deadly if even a small amount is
room.
consumed. Be sure to clean up any anti-freeze
Holidays mean lots of delicious dinners,
spills immediately and keep this poison stored
desserts and snacks. It is best to leave the
safely away from pets. Rock salt can be very
partying to the humans. Fat trimmings and
irritating to the feet and mouths of pets, so
table scraps can cause pancreatitis in both
make sure to wipe paws off after contact and
dogs and cats, resulting in vomiting, diarrhea
prevent ingestion.
and abdominal pain. Bones can cause a dog to
As responsible pet owners, it is our job to make
choke or can splinter and damage or block the
sure all household toxins are kept out of reach
digestive system. Abundant in holiday baking,
of our pets. Even the most careful pet owner can
nuts can cause an upset stomach and blockage
get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the
of the intestines.
holidays, and pets are quick to take advantage
Macadamia nuts can cause neurologic signs
of the lack of attention.
such as seizures and weakness. And what holiday is complete
If you have any reason to suspect your pet has ingested
without chocolate? Although a wonderful treat for people,
something toxic, please seek immediate medical attention from
chocolate can be very harmful to pets, especially dark or baking
your veterinarian. The ASPCA Poison Control Hotline is a great
chocolate. Signs include agitation, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures
resource for owners to keep on hand: 1-888-426-4435.
and death. Other food hazards for pets include; alcohol, grapes,
Dr. Susan Hubbard has an extensive history of caring for pets in
raisins, onions, garlic, avocado, mushrooms and foods containing
the Greece area and has been director of Greece Animal Hospital
the sweetener Xylitol.
since 2012. A native of Rochester, she began her career caring for
Holiday plant arrangements may be pretty, but many plants are
animals at Stone Ridge Veterinary Hospital as a kennel attendant
poisonous, even deadly. Just a small amount of a lily plant can
and animal care assistant in 1986. She returned to work for
be lethal in cats. Holly, mistletoe, poinsettias and pine needles
Monroe Veterinary Associates as an associate veterinarian at
can also cause problems, ranging from irritation of the mouth
Pittsford Animal Hospital from 2000 to 2002 and at Stone Ridge
Susan
Hubbard,
DVM
and digestive system to death. Make sure to keep plants and
Veterinary Hospital from 2002 to 2012.
Greece Animal Hospital
bouquets away from your pets.
Monroe Veterinary Associates
Dr. Hubbard attended the University of Rochester and received her
The focal point of the house at the holidays is often the Christmas
Bachelors Degree in Biology in 1994. She continued her education
tree. While all the decorations may look great, they can be another
at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, where she was awarded her
source of danger to pets. Tinsel, wrappings and ribbons, while not actually toxic Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 1998. Dr. Hubbard also practiced medicine at
themselves, are very attractive to pets, especially cats. These shiny materials can Barton Heights Veterinary Hospital from 1998 to 2000. Her professional interests
be fatal, as they cause choking, as well as, damage by twisting and bunching the include dermatology, internal medicine and dentistry. Dr. Hubbard is also active in
intestines. Immediate veterinary care is required. Bright, colorful tree decorations the care and treatment of puppies and guide dogs for Guiding Eyes for the Blind.
and ornaments can also damage the mouth and digestive system when eaten.

Indoor| Outdoor Pet Bed

by Romy and Jacob

products for your

Made of chocolate polka dot

on egg blue fabric with 100%
polyester fill. Zippered 24 x
36. Machine washable. Fade
and mold resistant. $145 at
www.romyandjacob.com.

PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

RABBITS: the essential pet guide

Nutrition

Exercise

Rabbits make terrific companions and knowing

what to feed them is essential to owning a happy,
healthy pet that will be with you for years to come.
Rabbits are hindgut fermenting herbivores, and
have teeth which continuously grow throughout
their lifetime. This means they require a diet that
is high in fiber, and provides abrasive foods that
can naturally wear the teeth down.
Dental disease and gastrointestinal disorders are
a common problem in pet rabbits and these are
best avoided by providing a suitable diet. The
recommended diet for rabbits is an unlimited
supply of grass and grass hay, access to fibrous
weeds, leafy greens (such as kale, parsley,
broccoli, celery, cabbage, bok choy and carrot
tops) and other vegetables. One-two tablespoons
of a high-quality pellet (such as Oxbow) may be
provided daily to supplement the diet. Avoid
large quantities of commercial pellets and mixes.
It is also important to provide your rabbit with
clean, fresh water daily.

Daily exercise is very important for your pet

rabbit. Several hours of free-roam exercise
outside of the hutch in natural, unfiltered light is
recommended each day. Regular exercise reduces
the risk of gastrointestinal disorders, prevents
obesity, maintains musculoskeletal health, and
helps prevent behavioral problems.

Health
Dental Disease
Pet rabbits may get dental disease, which is
often a result of lack of abrasive foods in the diet.
Dental disease may cause swellings of the face or
discharge from the eyes and requires veterinary
intervention. Appropriate nutrition is the most
effective tool to minimise risk of dental disease
in rabbits.

Prevention of dental disease

Unlimited access to good quality grass hay
and grass
Provide a variety of fresh vegetables
and leafy greens daily
Allow grazing of fibrous weeds and grasses
(such as thistle, dock and other garden weeds)
Encourage unrestricted exercise outside
each day, when weather permits
Dont feed rabbit mixes!
Avoid commercial pellets
The single most important item in a rabbit diet is the feeding
of grass or grass hay in unlimited quantities.

HUSBANDRY
Housing
The traditional hutch design has many
deficiencies. Cramped confines can lead to the
development of spinal disorders and behavioral
problems in pet rabbits.
The ideal hutch:
Provides protection against the elements (temperature,
wind and rain)
Is well ventilated, yet protected (e.g mesh) to minimize risk
of exposure to mosquitoes and fleas
Provides a hide and/or a sleeping area
Provides a run for free movement and exposure to natural light
Does not have a wire floor
Straw or hay bedding which is changed regularly
Has a litter tray
Is easily cleaned and cleaned regularly (daily ideal)
Has furniture or toys for behavioral enrichment
We do not recommend that rabbits be housed with guinea pigs,
as bullying by both species can occur.

Gastrointestinal disorders

Jenna Hanson, DVM

Veterinary Specialists
& Emergency Services
Monroe Veterinary Associates

Gastrointestinal disorders are common in pet rabbits, and these

are most often associated with inappropriate diet (inadequate
fiber and roughage). A pet rabbit with intermittent soft stools
often has droppings stuck to its hindquarters and may have
a foul smell. This can be caused by a diet that is too high in
carbohydrates (such as pellets) and too low in roughage (grass
and grass hay).
Inadequate fiber may also cause the gut to stop working (gut
stasis) which can cause the rabbit to stop eating and requires
veterinary intervention.
Continued on Page 14...

You really should advertise in the next issue of Pet Tales...

Its easy!
Call
394.0770
today!

6 PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

A letter from the dog:

Im just so bored all the time!
off. And then it made my tummy hurt. I tried to hold it until you got
home but didnt make it. Sorry!
I saw some pictures of some toys on that black thing on the wall that
looked kinda fun! Some of them had lots of holes in them that food
and treats fell out of when it moved around. I could play with those
things for hours!
And that cat saw some fuzzy mice and some feathers she said might
be fun to play with. I also heard her complaining to the nosey cat
next door that she wishes she had a fuzzy perch to sit on so she could
watch the birds in the yard like he does.
He also said the dog who lives in his house gets to go to daycare
sometimes and plays with other dogs when his Mom and Dad are
gone. Could I go to daycare sometime, too?
We love our family and love spending time with everyone, and
we know you all love us, too. Its just, sometimes we get sad when
nobodys home and theres nothing to do.
So, if you could please give us some good stuff to do and toys to play
with when you guys cant play, it would make us so happy, and help
us not do stuff we shouldnt do. It may even help that cat be a little
friendlier and play more with me!
If these ideas arent helpful, maybe this Christmas, you could get
another puppy for me to play with just a suggestion!
Thanks for listening!
The Dog

Mom? Dad? Me and that cat you brought home last Christmas
want to talk to you about some stuff.
We LOVE summertime! The weathers great, the kids are home
and we get to play with them more and go for walks in the
evenings. And when you guys go on vacation, we get to go
stay with our cousins who have that great big backyard in the
suburbs, or sometimes we even get to camp at that fancy hotel
attached to our doctors office!
We noticed its getting darker sooner and I cant stay out as long
as I used to, and soon the kids will be gone all day again, and
me and that cat you brought home last Christmas wont have
Dr. Linda Banks is the hospital director at Stone Ridge Veterinary
Linda Banks, DVM Hospital. She has cared for pets at the hospital since 1994 and enjoys
anyone to play with us.
Stone Ridge
working with the pets, clients and staff members that make up the
And she wont play with me. All she does is sleep all day.
Veterinary Hospital
Sometimes I chase her up and down the stairs, but she gets Monroe Veterinary Associates Stone Ridge Family. Dr. Banks attended Cornell University and received
her Bachelors Degree in Animal Science in 1985. She continued her
mad and hides behind the couch, or scratches me on the nose.
education at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine
Sometimes shell poop back there when she gets mad at me, but
and was awarded her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 1990. She
dont worry, I try to clean it up for you before you get home!
went on to complete an internship at the Animal Hospital of Pittsford
Oh, and not to be a tattle tale, but I saw her scratching the back
and remained there as a staff veterinarian for four years before moving
of the couch lots of times when she didnt have anything better
to Stone Ridge.
to do. She chews on your toothbrush sometimes too, but dont
tell her I told you.
When you guys get home at night, Im so happy to see you, but
you dont seem happy to see me anymore. How come? All you
want to do is sit on that couch (which Im not even allowed on,
even though that cat sleeps on it all day!) and stare at that black
When I was chewing uper, sniffing your magazine yesterday,
thing hanging on the wall with all the moving pictures on it.
I saw some websites you could look at to find some more ideas ...
How come we cant play outside anymore? Or just go for a long
indoorpet.osu.edu www.activedogtoys.com
walk? Me and the cat dont like it when everybodys gone all day.
www.lifeanddog.com/beat-dog-boredom-with-interactive-toys
Theres nothing to do. Well, theres stuff to do but the last time
I found some fun stuff to do, I got yelled at. I didnt know that
www.chewy.com/cat/interactive-toys327?gclid=CPqWwZKDzccCFcWPHwodObkF-w
those red shoes were brand new! They were really pretty!
www.nextag.com/Interactive-Cat-Toys/products-html?nxtg
=bb90a500504-BFE7927151723EC2
Oh, and the edge of the carpet in the family room was just sticking
up. That cat was scratching at it and pulled up the edge. I tried to
or go to stoneridgevethosp.com/articles_search.php to get more information.
fix it for you but it just kept coming up the more I tried to chew it

P.S.

PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

FELINE URINARY OBSTRUCTION blocked cat

Feline urethral obstruction (urinary
blockage) is a medical emergency and
requires immediate attention as it will
become life threatening and eventually fatal
if not recognized and treated promptly. The
goal of this article is to review this condition,
but most importantly educate and provide
information to help you recognize signs of
this emergency at home.

What exactly happens

if my cat becomes blocked?
First, lets get back to the basics and review
some anatomy and physiology. The kidneys
filter the blood, remove excess fluid from
the body and aid in maintaining normal
electrolyte balance in the body. The kidneys
make urine, which travels down the ureters
to the bladder. During urination, urine
leaves the bladder and hopefully makes its
way into the litterbox via the urethra.
When a cat becomes blocked or develops
a urethral obstruction, they are unable to
pass urine through the urethra. As a result,
the bladder becomes very large, hard and
painful. Pressure increases in the upper urinary tract and the
kidneys are no longer able to filter metabolic waste products
and maintain normal electrolyte balance. The build up of
these waste products and electrolytes makes the cat feel very
sick. Left untreated, these changes will ultimately become life
threatening. This is due to high potassium levels in the blood
that eventually result in a slow heartbeat and cardiac arrest.

blockage is diagnosed on physical exam.

These cats will have a large, firm and very
painful bladder (peach to small orange sized).
A normal bladder should be small and soft to
semi-firm (similar to a partially filled water
balloon). There are many possible causes of a
urinary blockage. These include the following:
Crystals or sand in the bladder
resulting in a urethral plug
Small bladder stones (uroliths) that
have become stuck in the urethra
Tumors within the bladder and/or urethra
or outside the urethra
Scar tissue causing a stricture
(or narrowing of the urethra)
Urethral spasms
Mucous plug (mucous/inflammatory
cells) resulting from inflammation
of the bladder or urethra
Blood clots

How do you treat a urethral

obstruction?

Immediate treatment involves stabilization and relieving the

obstruction. This procedure may be uncomfortable and painful
and is therefore done under heavy sedation or anesthesia. A
urinary catheter is passed into the urethra and is advanced into
the bladder to relieve the blockage.
Oftentimes, resistance is met at the site of the obstruction and
any material (stones, mucous, crystals) obstructing the urethra
is flushed back into the bladder. The urinary catheter is secured
How do I know if my cat may be blocked?
and connected to a urinary collection bag. Typically the urinary
Urethral obstruction is a diagnosis that is made on physical
catheter is left in for 48-72 hours, depending on how the cat is
examination by your veterinarian. However, there are important
doing and how sick they were prior to the procedure.
Sarah
Brawdy,
DVM
signs that you can watch for at home. These signs may include:
Veterinary Specialists
Hospitalization following the unblocking procedure is
Straining to urinate with the absence of urination
& Emergency Services
important, especially in patients that are really sick when they
or urine production of only tiny amounts
Monroe Veterinary Associates
are diagnosed. When a cat is blocked, the kidneys are unable to
Licking excessively at the genital region
make urine normally.
Attempting to urinate in inappropriate places
Once the blockage is relieved, the kidneys will reestablish urine flow. The kidneys
begin to make urine very quickly in order to correct the metabolic abnormalities
Vocalizing or crying
that have been going on.
Vomiting
Sometimes these cats will make large amounts of urine very quickly (post
Lethargy
obstructive diuresis) and can become severely dehydrated if they are not on IV
Hiding
fluids. While in hospital, they are also started on medications for pain; medications
that help relax the urethra and antibiotics if they have a concurrent urinary tract
Anorexia
infection. Prior to going home, the urinary catheter is removed and they are
Acting painful and restless
observed for several hours to make sure they are urinating normally.
You may only see some of these signs if your cat is blocked at home. Even if you
do not see your cat straining, it is important to follow up with your veterinarian if Dietary changes are typically recommended if the cat has crystals or small stones
in the urine. These are prescription urinary diets that work to dissolve crystals
any of these signs are noted.
(and help prevent reblocking in the future). Surgery is often recommended to
What causes a urethral obstruction?
remove bladder stones if they are the underlying cause of the obstruction.
The signs of a urinary blockage may look very similar to signs of a urinary tract Continued on Page 14...
infection or feline idiopathic cystitis (inflammation of the bladder). A urinary

8 PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

Rochester Community Animal Clinic

celebrating two years of service!

by anna beasley | monroe veterinary associates

Since opening its doors in July 2013, Rochester

Community Animal Clinic (RCAC) has quickly
become an important part of the Rochester area
because of its mission to provide high quality and
affordable pet care.
RCAC operates on the belief that every dog and
cat is deserving of quality veterinary services and
offers out-patient wellness care, urgent care, as
well as spay and neuter surgeries to those who
meet its low-income criteria.
By providing economical spay and neuter
surgeries, RCAC has helped reduce the unwanted
pet population in the greater Rochester area. To
date, RCAC has performed over 4,400 spays and
neuters on owned and rescued animals. There
are several benefits of spaying or neutering your
companion animal.
Spaying your cat or dog prevents her from going
into heat which reduces behaviors such as
persistent crying and the desire to roam. Neutering
your cat or dog reduces the risk of urine marking/
spraying, aggression, and undesirable sexual
behavior. In addition, the sterilization of both sexes
improves their chances for a long and healthy life
as they are less prone to develop various types of
reproductive diseases and cancers.
Not only does RCAC treat owned and rescued
animals, it is also an avid participant in Rochester
Hope for Pets Friends of Ferals program. In
addition to their 4,400 surgeries, the clinic has
completed more than 2,000 feral cat spays and
neuters. By sterilizing Rochesters feral cats, clinics
like RCAC help reduce Rochesters overpopulation
problem, which in turn decreases the number of
euthanasias performed on cats that are unable to

find forever homes.

RCAC provides wellness and outpatient care to all
pet owners, regardless of income level. Low cost
spay/neuter services are offered to pet owners
who meet its low-income eligibility criteria. You
may qualify if you are:
Currently enrolled in college
(with current college ID)
Serving in the military (with military ID)
Receiving any of the following public assistance
programs: Temporary Assistance, Food Stamps,
HEAP, Unemployment Benefits, Supplemental
Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, SSDI, or
Veterans Disability/Retirement Benefits
Receiving Social Security (with a benefit
verification letter from SSA)
Have an annual household income of $40,000
or under (with the 1040 form from your most
recent tax return)
RCAC also offers walk-in wellness hours for all
pet owners on Monday, Wednesday, Friday,
and Saturday. Wellness examinations include:
physicals, vaccinations, parasite testing, blood,
urine, and fecal screenings, and behavioral/
nutritional guidance. During wellness hours RCAC
will also provide non-critical urgent care for minor
injuries, skin problems, ear and eye infections,
vomiting, diarrhea, and upper respiratory
infections. Appointments may also be available for
healthy/well animals needing only vaccines. Call
to inquire more about appointment availability.
For more information about Rochester Community
Animal Clinic, please call 585-288-0600 or visit
www.rochestercommunityanimalclinic.com.
This book shares a revolutionary, new perspective on our relationships
with dogs, focusing on our behavior in comparison with that of dogs.
An applied animal behaviorist and dog trainer with more than twenty
years experience, Dr. Patricia McConnell looks at humans as just another
interesting species, and muses about why we behave the way we do around
our dogs, how dogs might interpret our behavior, and how to interact with
our dogs in ways that bring out the best in our four-legged friends.

The Other End

of the Leash

by Patricia McConnell

In her own insightful, compelling style, Patricia McConnell combines

wonderful true stories about people and dogs with a new, accessible
scientific perspective on how they should behave around each other.
This is a book that strives to help you make the most of life with your
dog, and prevent problems that might arise in that most rewarding of
relationships.
New paperback edition starts at about $5 on amazon.com.

PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

ENRICHING YOUR CATS ENVIRONMENT leads to improved happiness

Cats are an important part of daily life for many
multiple cats together in one home or location,
people. They wake us in the morning and greet us
we need to consider that appropriate amounts of
after a long day at work or school. They make us
coveted resources are made available: Space to rest,
laugh as they run and romp like elephants through
eat, drink water, and use the litter box. When other
our homes. They give us comfort when they purr
pets (specifically dogs) share the home, cats need to
and snuggle with us. In turn, we need to consider
have the ability to escape the situation at all times as
what we can do to help our cats experience a rich
well as to have a place to feel safe and secure while
and enjoyable life, too.
observing the situation. Below are basic resources
that are critical for every cat to have available in his
Cats have certain needs and predictability in their
or her environment/home.
routines that create an inviting and stress-free
Food
environment. The term environmental enrichment
means to make available within a cats confined
Each cat should have his or her own food bowl,
environment the resources and necessities to
which should be cleaned regularly and located away
stimulate and challenge the cat and allow it
from air ducts or appliances that may suddenly turn
to perform natural behaviors. Through better
on and frighten the cat. Also, cats prefer to be fed at
knowledge and understanding of our cats natural
the same time each day, and dry and canned food
behaviors and needs, we can improve the welfare
should be offered in separate bowls. When a change
of our feline friends. This should be considered an
in food is being introduced, the new food can be
important part of preventative health care and
offered in the original food bowl and the old food in
stable mental health of our cats. As veterinarians
a new bowl such that the cat be allowed to make a
and pet owners, our goal should always be to
choice to try the new food or not.
improve and maintain good health for our cats and
Cats naturally prefer to hunt and scavenge for food.
help them live longer, happier lives.
Therefore, it can be more exciting for some cats to
In order to design an enriched environment for our
be challenged with toy puzzles to pull food from or
cats, we need to understand feline behaviors in their
to hide some food throughout the home so they need to look
natural, wild environment. Cats are naturally solitary hunters, not
for it.
part of a pack or herd. They spend many hours hunting, stalking,
Water
catching, and consuming multiple (10 to 20) prey throughout
Cats should have access to multiple sources of fresh water. Each
the day. Cats need to be able to hide from predators, perhaps by
cat likely has his or her own preference for standing water, water
climbing to high perches to escape. They will defend their home
fountains, or dripping water. Cats also have variable preferences
territory from real and perceived intruders. Felines depend more
for the bowl or glass from which they drink. As owners, we
on smell than on visual cues to communicate with other cats,
often tend to put water and food together, but many cats prefer
locate food, and detect predators. In their outdoor environments,
to seek out different locations.
cats will scratch to stretch muscles, leave scent marks, shed old
cuticles, and sharpen claws. When cats are brought into our
Resting spots
homes, we need to provide an acceptable outlet for these natural
Joanne Hach, DVM
Cats & Critters Veterinary Hospital Cats need space for both sleep and quiet observation of their
behaviors.
surroundings. They will seek areas of quiet refuge for resting,
Monroe Veterinary Associates
Even though we provide many important resources, cats prefer
where they will be warm and comfortable when resting. Owners
to feel in control of their surroundings. Predictability and daily routines help cats can help with this by providing beds with large towels, blankets, fleece, etc.
experience less stress and anxiety. Stress can affect the overall well-being of our
cats and make them susceptible to illness and behavioral problems. Stressors in Additionally, cats enjoy hiding in boxes and bags. These areas should also be away
their indoor lives are presented by us as owners and families, other cats in the from machinery that may suddenly turn on or create unexpected noises. Cats are
home and other pets in the home. As we become acquainted with our cats, we, naturally climbers and prefer to have perches that have an elevated vantage point
as owners, need to create and maintain a caring, learning, and non-threatening to look down on the world below. There are many varieties of cat trees, shelves,
environment. We need to provide positive reinforcements through rewards and and windowsill seats available, or you can be creative with elevated cat walks.
High perches provide that coveted place of escape for cats and a place to feel more
treats for acceptable behaviors.
in control.
If an owner needs to use negative reinforcement on his or her cat, it should not be
Litter
boxes
done through physical punishment but rather through creating an environment
that provides that feedback. For example, to deter a cat from scratching a certain There should ideally be one litter box per cat in the home plus one additional box.
area, apply double-sided sticky tape, aluminum foil, or nubby underside of These litter boxes should be an appropriate size and height for each cat depending
rubber mats, which cats do not like the texture of on their toes. When we bring Continued on next page...

Cat people are different, to the extent that they generally are not conformists.
How could they be, with a cat running their lives? Louis J.

10 PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

on their age, body size, and mobility. The litter boxes should be located on
multiple levels in the home and in a private/low-trac area that is away from
machinery. The box should not be located where other cats can sneak up and
surprise cats in the litter box. Felines tend to prefer unscented clumping litter, but
there are certainly many litter types available. When changing or trying different
litter types, make sure the old and new litter is available so the cat can make a
choice and demonstrate its preferences. The litter should be scooped daily and
replaced weekly. The litter box should be washed regularly with a mild detergent,
and owners should consider replacing the plastic litter box every few years. Cats
are sensitive to smells and perceived threats, the litterbox needs to be as clean
and appealing as possible for them.

Social play and environmental exploration

We may not always think of play and exploration as an essential resource for cats,
but these activities are important to the mental and physical health of our feline
friends. Social interactions include providing the opportunity for cats to play with
owners and/or other cats daily. These interactions may also involve petting and
grooming our cats.
Cats are independent by nature and prefer to initiate play themselves and keep
things on their own terms. They also need to be able to readily disengage at any
time and have that ability to escape if they would like. Cats often prefer shorter,
more frequent social visits, which often may be in contrast to what we would
desire.

In consideration of catsnatural behaviors for scratching, chewing, and hunting, we

need to provide appropriate outlets indoors for our cats, too. Multiple scratching
posts both vertical and horizontal and of varying composition (cardboard,
carpet, sisal rope, burlap) should be available. Be sure to provide a scratching
post of appropriate height for the cats age and size. Place the scratching post near
common resting areas and activity areas to encourage proper use and discourage
them from exploring other inappropriate areas.
Many cats like to chew on cat grasses or roll in and consume cat nip. There are
many options available to provide play toys and prey-like toys for cats. Cats enjoy
toys they can carry places, readily pick up, and toss in the air. Also, they need toys
that move like prey; there are all sorts of toys that mimic birds, mice, and bugs.
Cats like to chase and capture their pretend prey. It is important to rotate the toys
regularly to maintain interest and stimulus.
We can modify our homes to be more cat-friendly using many different ideas,
with the objective being to provide them with safe and comfortable environments
with predictable routines and interactions. The above resources are critical to all
our feline friends as they provide a means for owners to have an integral role in
their cats well-being and preventative health care.
Dr. Hach is a co-director at Cats & Critters Veterinary Hospital, where she worked
as a general practitioner since 2002. She enjoys caring for felines as well as for
small mammals. She received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Cornell
University.

Friday, October 16 6:00 -10:00 pm

Locust Hill Country Club Ball Room
2000 Jefferson Road, Pittsford
$65 per person
$60 early bird registration (ends 9/30)
Food Stations will be paired with
12 premium vintages
Craft Beers from Three Heads Brewing
Craft Spirits from Black Button Distilling
Music provided by The Alkasa Trio:
Aland Lowne (violin), Katie Fish (violin)
and Sara Helmers (cello)
If you have any questions,
please call us at 585-271-2733 x 89

Please join Rochester Hope for Pets

for an evening filled with exceptional food
and drink pairings, music, memories,
laughter and hope.

Please RSVP by Friday, October 9.

To make your reservation go to http://rochesterhopeforpets.
org/support-us/. Under Fund drop-down menu, choose
Event Participation. Fill in Wine Tasting in the text box and
click Donate button. Then enter your payment and contact
info as instructed via PayPal. Thank you for your support!

PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

11

Tail of Hope - Clancys story

Provided by Rochester Hope for Pets

Michelle brought her dog, Clancy, to their

veterinarian when she noticed that his lymph
nodes had begun to swell and he was drinking
and urinating more than usual. Through an
exam and testing Clancy was diagnosed with
Lymphoma. Within a week of his prognosis he had
stopped eating, was experiencing tremors and
was very lethargic. It was crucial that Clancy start
chemotherapy treatments immediately. Michelle
started Clancy on the treatments right away.
The trips to the specialists, the blood work and
chemotherapy were becoming very expensive.
Michelle was concerned how she would be able
to provide Clancy with the services he needed.
I would have been devastated if I couldnt offer
him every opportunity to live, said Michelle. She
was willing to do anything to try to save her best

friend. Clancy was able to continue to receive the

treatments and care he needed through a grant
from Rochester Hope for Pets.
Within two days he was much better; after two
weeks he was in clinical remission and back at the
dog park every day, Michelle stated. Clancy passed
away after five wonderful months of remission
when the lymphoma came back too aggressively for
treatment. He spent every day up until the day of his
passing at the dog park enjoying the company of his
four-legged friends.
If I was unable to provide him with the treatment
he would have surely died within two weeks of
the diagnosis. Rochester Hope for Pets gave us five
incredible months together and I will be forever
grateful for your assistance, Michelle said.

Rochester Hope for Pets is a not-for-profit organization that was founded in 2008 with the mission
to improve the quality of life for companion animals in the greater Rochester area. Through our
award process, we offer financial assistance toward veterinary care costs to pet owners during
times of need. Through Duncans Fund for Education, we provide continuing education courses,
upgraded equipment and technology, and the most current reference literature for veterinary
health professionals who practice in Monroe and surrounding counties. This training and knowledge
serves to enhance the care and treatment of pets at facilities in our region. We also partner with
other local nonprofits to improve the welfare of animals.

Rochester Hope for Pets 2816 Monroe Avenue Rochester, NY 14618 585-271-2733 x89 RochesterHopeForPets@gmail.com
Continued from Page 3...
Be sure to avoid using detergents or chemical cleaners which could contaminate their
pool and make the water unsafe to drink.
Your shelled friend should also have lukewarm water baths, four-seven days per week.
You should try to give your tortoise a water bath in the morning to encourage drinking
(they can hydrate themselves from both ends drinking from the front through their
nostrils, or absorbing water from the back end through their cloaca). Warm water baths
also facilitate urination and defecation so it is perfectly normal if your tortoise goes to the
toilet in the water bath this also keeps their enclosure cleaner! Make sure you clean out
the water bath thoroughly and ALWAYS wash your hands before and after handling your
tortoise, cleaning their enclosure and washing their water dishes.
Dr. Ashley Forti is a veterinarian at Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Services. She received
a Bachelors Degree in Animal Science; PreVeterinary Medicine from the University of New
Hampshire in 2009. She graduated from the University of Glasgow School of Veterinary
Medicine in Glasgow, Scotland in 2015. Dr. Forti is the proud owner of Boris the Tortoise,
featured in the photos.

In order to really enjoy a dog, one doesnt merely try to train him to be semihuman.
The point of it is to open oneself to the possibility of becoming partly a dog. Edward Hoagland

12 PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

Volunteers are key to helping

shelters find homes for pets
By Kristina Faller, Associate Director of Communications | Lollypop Farm, Humane Society of Greater Rochester

Most animal shelters could not provide the services

they do without the help of volunteers. In fact,
many rely on the generosity of the community to
help provide care for animals in need. This support
comes in the form of both donations and volunteer
involvement.
Along with dedicated employees, volunteers
provide essential services to homeless and abused
pets from foster care volunteers, to dog walkers,
cage cleaners, fundraisers and more. Often, an
individuals interest and passion for a cause can
inspire co-workers to help.
Russ Roberts, Systems Engineer at Xerox, has
been a volunteer at Lollypop Farm for more than
16 years. Individually, he contributes about 1,000
hours of time each year to almost every area of the
organization, from adoptions and admissions to
event logistics and even lawn mowing.
In addition to his individual contributions, Russ has
spearheaded volunteerism amongst his colleagues
and organizes one of the largest United Way
Day of Caring efforts in our community, rallying
individuals from multiple departments in Xerox to
volunteer annually at Lollypop Farm. In 2015, 119
Xerox individuals gave their time to Lollypop Farm,
each working an average of 5-6 hours.

The animals cant speak for themselves, and cant

take care of themselves, says Russ. They need the
support of the community, and I am happy that our
Xerox team can provide that. Russ lives in Webster
with his four Lollypop Farm alumni cats: Flower,
MC, Herbie and Rooney.
Volunteers for animal shelters can also be
instrumental in raising much needed funds to help
care for the animals and find them homes. Abby
Mastrella, Recovery Manager at Paychex, has led
very successful fundraising activities involving
her co-workers for over eight years. She and her
colleagues have raised thousands of dollars to help
homeless and abused pets find homes.
Rallying a volunteer team of colleagues can be a
great way to build teamwork within an organization
while helping a worthy cause. I love building team
camaraderie while helping animals at the same
time, says Abby. She had led groups of colleagues
to hold bake sales and even pooch-kissing-booths to
raise funds for shelter animals.
Countless volunteers across the country help animal
shelters each year to care for homeless and abused
pets and find them homes. They find their reward
in a contented purr, wagging tail, and ultimately, a
happy home for the animal.

Above: Russ Roberts has been a volunteer for over 16 years. Center: Just a few of the 119 annual Xerox volunteers.
Below: Abby Mastrella and her colleagues raise thousands of dollars each year to help homeless and abused pets find homes.

PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

13

A day in the life of

a veterinary tech
by amber germano, lvt | Penfield veterinary hosPital | monroe veterinary associates

Ive started this piece a dozen times. Ive thought about it for over a month. How
do I explain my job without either boring readers to death or being sappy and
melodramatic?
In many ways, the job of a veterinary technician is much like any other job. We
get up in the morning to an early alarm, groggy and groping for breakfast while
running out the door. We make the daily rush-hour commute, swearing at the
traffic. We greet our coworkers, our enthusiasm dependent upon how much
coffee we had that morning.
Just like any other job, theres paperwork, scheduling, tedium, routine.
But about a month ago I came in to what was supposed to be a normal morning,
my hair not yet up and my coffee not yet finished, and I was briefed on Jerry. Jerry
was a bear of a dog, a Newfoundland mix who had come in for difficulty walking.
He had sudden onset of rear leg paralysis and ended up hospitalized with us for
seven days.
Many people think that veterinary technicians are there solely to clean cages and
hand things to the veterinarians. And there would be no shame in such a job.
But over those seven days I drew Jerrys blood, I took his x-rays and administered
his medications. I kept his doctors informed on his condition and let them know
the minutiae of his symptoms. Details that we technicians are able to observe by
working so closely with the patients.

Cat have
you curious?

Pooch have
you puzzled?

Want answers to your questions?

Email your questions to
marketingmva@yahoo.com!

More importantly, I learned that Jerry best liked his wet food warmed up and
separated from the dry kibble. I hand-fed him when he was hesitant to eat alone.
I sat with him on his Batman quilt when he was whining. I learned that he was
going to enthusiastically wipe his jowls on me in greeting, whether or not his legs
were going to cooperate and whether I liked it or not. I learned that his favorite
pastime was barking at the mailman, so I made sure to schedule his walks around
that time. (Sorry, mailman!)
Jerry eventually went home with his owners. While his overall prognosis was not
good, with steroids and physical therapy he had improved to the point where he
could go home and spend his last days with his family.
And when he returned for humane euthanasia, we were there to greet him again.
To offer him the mailman toy he played with while here and to offer a shoulder for
his owners as they said goodbye.
Jerrys case is the crux of what veterinary technology is about. Yes, we draw
blood, monitor anesthesia, take x-rays, give vaccines, analyze lab samples and
do a slew of other day-to-day tasks. But I dont get up for work in the morning for
the opportunity to anesthetize a cat spay. And Im fairly sure that no technician in
the history of veterinary medicine has gone to work for the money. I get up each
morning thinking of cases like Jerrys and for the opportunity to both share in
the joy and help ease the sorrow of pet ownership. Names and details have been
changed to protect client/patient confidentiality.

Ask a Vet...
i have always heard that dogs only see in black and
white. is this true or do they have color vision?
Dogs and cats have color vision, but it is dierent than color vision in
people. The perception of color is a result of a specic type of cell in
the retina. There are two main types of cells in the retina that detect
light, rod and cone photoreceptors. Rods are important for vision in
dim light and for motion detection. Cones are important for vision in
bright light, visual acuity (detail) and for color vision. Dogs and cats
have cones in their retinas, but the majority of the cells that detect light
are rods. This is one reason that dogs and cats see better in the dark than
people do. People have three types of cone that are sensitive to dierent
wavelengths of light and are termed trichromatic. These cones are
especially sensitive to light in the blue, green and red wavelengths
respectively. There is overlap in the sensistivity, so people see a wide
spectrum of color. Dogs and cats have cones that are sensitive to light
in the blue and green wavelengths and are termed dichromatic. This is
similar to a person who is red-green color blind. There are other factors
that are important in determining color vision, including light intensity,
ltering of dierent wavelengths of light, and the connections in the
brain where vision is perceived.
Kent M. Burgesser, PhD, DVM, MS
Diplomate, America College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists

14 PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

Continued from Page 5...

Fur Mites
Fur mites may resemble dandruff on
your rabbit, often on the back between
the shoulders or at the tail base; the rabbit
may also start to lose fur. Fur mites can be
treated by your veterinarian. Maintaining
enclosure hygiene with a thorough cleaning
is important in prevention. Fur mites can
infect humans and care should be taken
when handling your rabbit if you suspect
mites. Cat and dog parasite control products
(such as Frontline) should never be used
on rabbits and veterinary advice should be
sought.

Portraits
of

Love

Each week, Lollypop Farm receives letters and emails lled with
happy endings for animals who have been adopted from our shelter.
Pictures help to tell these wonderful stories.

Sam

Spay/Neuter
We recommend that pet rabbits get
spayed or neutered at three-four months
of age for males and six months of age for
females. Neutering of males can reduce
urine marking behaviors. Furthermore,
non-neutered males may become territorial
and possessive about their environment
and owners, leading to aggressive behavior.
Spaying females also reduces aggression
and prevents development of uterine
tumors later in life.
Dr. Hanson is a veterinarian at Veterinary
Specialists & Emergency Services. She
graduated from the University of Western
Ontario with a degree in Medical Science
and Biology in 2009. She received her
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from
the University of Melbourne in 2014, where
she founded the Student Mentor Program.
She has recently worked at a mixed animal
practice in Ontario, Canada.
Continued from Page 7...
Once your cat is discharged from the
hospital, it is important to watch for signs
that may indicate reblocking has occurred.
If you have any questions about your cats
urinary status or if your cat is showing any
of the signs listed above, it is best to contact
your veterinarian.
Dr. Sarah L. Brawdy attended the State
University of New York College at Geneseo,
where she majored in Biology, and graduated
in 2005. She then went on to earn her DVM
degree from the University of Tennessee
College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Brawdy
has professional interests in anesthesia and
pain management, emergency and critical
care, and internal medicine.

sAM was adopted by

Sarah and Jamie in 2015

Bella
BeLLA was adopted by
Ari and Trevor in 2014

Mr.
Snuggles
Mr. snuGGLes
was adopted by
Amanda in 2014

PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

PetTales

15

MESSENGER POST MEDIA

73 Buffalo Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424

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Speak!

We welcome our readers letters.

Please write to:
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email: dreddy@messengerpostmedia.com
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We provide kind,
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when you need it the most.

www.monroevets.com
Thank you to Pet Tales
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Monroe Veterinary Associates was founded
in 1969 as a single hospital and has grown to
include 14 full-service veterinary hospitals,
a 24-hour emergency and specialty practice,
and a full-service reference laboratory, all of
which are located in or around Rochester.
Monroe Veterinary Associates contributes
actively to the community in a variety of ways.
MVA provides financial support to Rochester
Hope for Pets, Rochester Animal Services, the
Seneca Park Zoo and the Humane Society at
Lollypop Farm. MVA veterinarians and staff
members volunteer countless hours toward
helping animals in the community. For
example, veterinarians donate their time to
Friends of Ferals, which works to help decrease
the feral cat population in the Rochester area.
Also, MVAs personnel are active in local
educational initiatives, including classroom
presentations, student shadow programs and
student externships.
Find out more about the many services that
Monroe Veterinary Associates offers or to find
a location near you, visit monroevets.com. You
can also follow us on Twitter @MonroeVets or
like us on Facebook.

Monroe Veterinary Associates

Business Directory
Income-Qualified
Spay/Neuter
Surgeries and
Out-Patient Clinic

ROCHESTER
COMMUNITY
ANIMAL CLINIC
985 Bay Street
Rochester, NY 14609
585.288.0600
rochestercommunity
animalclinic.com

24 Hour
Emergency
Services

VETERINARY
SPECIALISTS &
EMERGENCY
SERVICES
825 White Spruce Blvd.
Suite 100
Rochester, NY 14623
585.424.1277
animalemergencyservices.com

Veterinary
Hospitals
Offering
Boarding

Animal Hospital
of Pittsford
2816 Monroe Avenue
Rochester, NY 14618
585.271.7700
pittsfordvet.com
Companion
Animal Hospital
2800 West Henrietta Road
Rochester, NY 14623
585.424.2900
companionvethosp.com

Fairview
Veterinary
Hospital
6735 Pittsford Palmyra Road
Fairport, NY 14450
585.223.0940
fairviewvet.com

Canandaigua
Veterinary
Hospital
4410 County Road 50
Canandaigua, NY 14424
585.394.3340
canandaiguavet.com

Irondequoit
Animal Hospital
2150 Hudson Avenue
Rochester, NY 14617
585.266.8020
irondequoitanimalhospital.com

Cats & Critters

32 Somerton Street
Rochester, NY 14607
585.442.4373
catsandcritters.com

Penfield
Veterinary
Hospital
1672 Penfield Road
Rochester, NY 14625
585.381.2441
penfieldvet.com
Perinton
Veterinary
Hospital
11 LaSalle Parkway
Victor, NY 14564
585.248.5566
perintonvet.com
Stone Ridge
Veterinary
Hospital
550 Center Place Drive
Rochester, NY 14615
585.227.4990
stoneridgevethosp.com
Suburban
Animal Hospital
2495 East Henrietta Road
Rochester, NY 14623
585.334.4230
suburbanvet.com

Veterinary
Hospitals

Bayview
Animal Hospital
1217 Bay Road, Suite #1A
Webster, NY 14580
585.671.3120
bayviewanimalhosp.com

EAST RIVER
VETERINARY
HOSPITAL
5152 East River Road
West Henrietta, NY 14586
585.334.3110
eastrivervet.com
Greece
Animal Hospital
3180 Latta Road, Suite 800
Rochester, NY 14612
585.227.7100
greecenanimalhospital.com
PALMYRA
Animal Hospital
1215 Canandaigua Road
Palmyra, NY 14522
315.597.4567
palmyravet.com
Veterinary
Specialists &
EMERGENCY
SERVICES
825 White Spruce Blvd.
Suite 100
Rochester, NY 14623
585.424.1260
vetspecialistsofrochester.com
All Monroe Veterinary
Associates hospitals
are on Facebook.
Find and
like us today!

16 PET TALES AUTUMN EDITION 2015

Offering the
best care...
for your
best friend.

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Compassionate care...for life

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