editor’spage

our vision
We Baby Cats and Dogs! to provide inspiration and education to our
customers on how to be responsible and
enlightened pet owners.
You let him sleep beside you during a thunderstorm.
You wouldn’t feed him anything that might be of harm. our values
We believe dogs and cats must have the best nutrition
You teach him the values of choosing right from wrong.
and health care available.

You are not a master. You are a parent. We believe dogs and cats are not toys for our
He is not a pet. He is a baby. amusement; they have feelings, they are very loyal
and they need our tender loving care.
In Bow & Wow, we baby cats and dogs.
We believe the best way to acquire new pets is through
Pets are not pets. In this day and age, they are not pet adoption from the animal shelters.
even man’s best friends anymore. They are babies. And
they will always be babies even as they grow bigger We are against selling dogs and cats in pet shops which
involves prolonged confinement in small cages.
and older. As babies, they are special to us, and they
depend on us for their special needs. We understand what it means to be a pet We are against all forms of animal cruelty including
parent, so together with our uber talented creative agency, McCann Healthcare, we chaining and caging dogs.
are thrilled to unveil our new thematic campaign. Flip to our magazine centerfold to
meet Alaskan Malamute puppy Zeus and Persian kitten Kevin, who gamely posed We suppor t the good work of organizations like
for us during a fabulously fun photo shoot to bring our creative concept to life. Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), Compassion
& Responsibilities for Animals (CARA) and People for
This issue of The Bow & Wow Times is our most exciting one to date! For the the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
very first time, we have a Bow & Wow Baby on the cover of our magazine. Silvano
the Maltese is the grand prize winner of our recently concluded PETPARAZZI editorial staff
Facebook photo upload contest for dogs and cats. Along with the gorgeous cover
photo, Silvano won a year’s supply of Bow & Wow products! To know more about Christian Tan
the contest and meet the other winners, flip to Page 17. president

Romy Sia
We have also added several new sections and invited special contributors for publisher
our magazine. In Vetspeak, we partnered with Manila’s best veterinary hospital, Vets
In Practice (VIP), and invited top vets to share their thoughts on various health Pam So-Suarez
topics. In Canine Conversations, prominent behavioral trainer Elsie Araneta helps editor-in-chief
pet parents learn the best ways to train their dogs. In Ask The Vet, resident Bow & Joy Ann Cardeño
Wow veterinarians shed light on questions asked by our readers. In Pet Parent Profile, circulation manager
popular celebrity Joey Mead tells us the joys of pet parenting. Of course, we have
great articles to help you raise your babies best, including a feature on top mistakes Tennie Hung
encoder
made by pet parents, natural flea & tick busting remedies, symptoms that should never
be ignored in pets, and an informative guide on common pet ailments and products Wilzen Wobby Tiang
that can best relieve them. layout & design

As I write this, my little baby Hitler lies atop my desk beside my laptop, eyes half- Sky Printing
printer
closed as he drifts off to slumber. I give him a gentle kiss on top of his head, and softly
whisper that I love him. This is how I baby him. Dear pet parents, How do you baby
your pet? Drop me an e-mail, and the top 3 answers will win a special Christmas
directory
prize for their baby. Level 5, Shangri-La Plazal Mall, EDSA Mandaluyong City
(632) 638-3372

Happy Parenting! Lower Ground Floor, Greenbelt 5, Makati City

(632) 501-3680

Pam So-Suarez
pssuarez@bowandwow.com.ph
PS: The –ber months are going to be pretty eventful for Bow &Wow. Along with the launch of our
new campaign, we’ve planned a very special Christmas for you and your baby, including a glitzy
holidaydinner!Tobeintheknow,joinourFacebookpage:www.facebook.com/bowandwow,orsign
up on our website: www.bowandwow.com.ph.
We digest it for pet parents... The Bow & Wow Times tracks all relevant
pet information from key websites, magazines, journals, animal research
and studies, and other credible sources. Then we summarize what is
essential for you to know in order to raise healthy and happy pets, and
become the best pet parents you can be. The Bow & Wow Times is in no
way intended to replace the knowledge and/or diagnoses of veterinary
professionals. Always consult with your veterinarian whenever a health
problem arises which requires expert care.
The Bow & Wow Times is a quarterly publication of the Healthy Options Group of Companies with
corporate offices located at #3 Economia Street corner Calle Industria, Barangay Bagumbayan,
Libis, Quezon City, 1110 and trunk line of (632)637-8888. For subscription inquiries, visit any of our
stores listed above. Bow & Wow is a trademark registered at the Philippine Patent Office. ENTERED
AS THIRD CLASS (PM) POSTAGE PAID AT QUEZON CITY CPO Under Permit No. NCR-05-07-201 valid
until December 31, 2010. Subject for Postal Inspection.

Issue No. 5 www.bowandwow.com.ph 1

 pet care
Top Mistakes Pet Parents Make
By: Pam So-Suarez
As pet parents, we love our babies unconditionally and would
do absolutely anything for them to be as happy and as healthy
as possible. We feed them when they are hungry, play with
them when they invite us to, and care for them when they are
sick. However, even the best of intentions can sometimes lead
to trouble. Here are some of the top mistakes that pet parents
make and suggestions on how to correct them.
Unplanned Parenthood
Parenting a pet is a major commitment that should never be
decided on a mere whim. Far too many people get caught into
the trap of being blinded by cuteness at a pet store or breeder,
or being overcome by pity at an animal shelter. Before buying
or adopting a pet, several factors must be considered, such as:
needs of the pet versus the lifestyle of the family, breed-specific
behaviour, health care, time and financial commitment, among
others. Doing the research (and math!) before making the big
decision to become a pet parent will give both you and your
pet a lifetime of happiness.
Overfeeding
An enthusiastic wag of the tail, a hungry-looking flick of the
tongue, and irresistible puppy-kitty eyes are all it takes to get our
hearts to melt and reach for a treat, or worse, human snacks for
our dogs and cats. Another common problem is worrying that
our pets might still be hungry or that they haven’t eaten the
recommended amount of food indicated on the feeding guide
of the pet food.
Despite our good parent intentions, too much food or snacks
is detrimental to our baby’s health and well-being in the long run.
Overfeeding results to weight gain and obesity, and eventually
leads to other more serious health concerns such as diabetes,
digestive disorders, organ failure, musculoskeletal problems such
as back ailments or hip dysplasia, breathing difficulties, and more.
Most pets are food driven and will eat just about anything even
if they are not hungry, so they usually won’t stop eating until we
stop feeding them. Also, feeding guides on dog food are more
often than not overstated.
The solution? First, take your baby to the vet for a weight
assessment. If overweight, immediately ask your vet to
recommend a weight loss program, cut back on meal portions,
increase exercise, and feed light snacks or special “diet” variants
for obese dogs such as those available in Bow & Wow. If not
overweight, strive to maintain the weight by feeding only the right
amount of food. Never over-snack them, and ideally treats should
2 Top Mistakes Pet Parents Make
only be given as a reward for good behaviour or after performing
a trick. Lastly, a simple solution would be to feed all-natural food
that does not contain any bulk-fillers, such as Merrick or Natural
Balance. Pets are proven to eat less natural food than commercial
variants because nutrient-dense foods help pets feel more satiated
and let them consume only what they need to maintain healthy
energy levels and normal bodily functions.
No Exercise or Play Time
Yes, admittedly most of us humans are lazy couch potatoes who
would rather laze around doing nothing, but that doesn’t mean we
should drag our dogs and cats into our lazy habits! As pet parents,
it is our responsibility to keep our babies healthy, so regular exercise
and stimulating activities goes without saying. As a general rule,
dogs should get at least 15 to 20 minutes of exercise daily, and cats
should get at least two 10-minute play times each day.
The optimal amount of exercise will vary depending on breed,
size, age, and energy levels. Best to check with your veterinarian to
determine exactly how much exercise your breed requires. If, like
me, you have an indoor dog and are hesitant to bring your baby
outdoors daily due to harmful pests and potential environment
hazards, a quick fix would be to have adequate play time inside the
house, such as an engaging game of fetch or running up and down
the stairs. For cats, plenty of stimulating toys should do the trick.
Most behavioural trainers stress on the importance of adequate
exercise to release energy levels, fight boredom, and provide mental
stimulation,ultimatelypreventingthemfromdevelopingbehavioural
problems such as chewing, aggression, separation anxiety, and
more.
Lack of Training & Discipline
As much as we love our pets and want to give the world to
them, our role as pet parents is to make sure they grow up to
be disciplined and well-mannered members of society. A spoiled
child is not a pretty sight, and neither is a spoiled pet! Pets don’t
know human etiquette, so it’s up to pet parents to espouse proper
petiquette.

No one wants to see a misbehaving dog who begs constantly,
barks uncontrollably, shows aggression, or refuses to socialize with
people and other pets. Neither does anyone want to see a cat
who doesn’t know how to keep off the counter, practices bad
litterbox habits, or is hostile toward humans.
For our furry babies, consistency is key. Training and discipline
is an ongoing and permanent process, so it must be established
constantly without fail. Never confuse your baby by prohibiting
him to do something one day and allowing him to do the opposite
the next day. Moreover, have a routine – and stick to it! This is
especially true when it comes to eating, drinking, sleeping, exercise,
and toilet breaks. Clear routines and setting boundaries work
well especially for dogs because it alleviates their stress as they
become accustomed to certain activities, and also helps the pet
parent quickly spot illnesses or problems when routines change
suddenly. Last, but not the least, never ever punish your pet or
use aversion to correct bad behaviour when disciplining, as this
ultimately damages their spirit and your relationship with them.
(Formoreinformationonpropertraining,readElsieAraneta’scolumn,
Canine Conversations, on Page 20.)
Failure to Spay or Neuter
In a society where stray dogs and cats proliferate the streets,
one of our biggest problems is pet overpopulation. This results
in thousands of dogs and cats being euthanized each month,
with many killings done through inhumane methods. Spaying or
neutering a pet helps prevent homeless animals from being born
into the world, therefore preventing animal cruelty and suffering.
Spayed or neutered pets are also healthier and happier, reporting
lower incidences of tumors and reproductive cancers, infections,
sexual anxiety, and even aggressive behaviour. Overall, spayed or
neutered pets will have a better length and quality of life.
Leaving Children and Pets Unsupervised
Pets may make great babysitters on TV and the movies, but
in real life they are anything but! Even the gentlest pets can get
overexcited or over exhausted during play time with unrelenting
children, resulting to them feeling threatened, afraid, or worse,
aggressive. As a parent to both your children and your pets, make
sure you teach your children how to act around pets, treating
them gently, with respect, and avoiding upsetting actions such as
shouting, hitting, taunting, or getting their food. Pets and children
should be supervised at all times when together.
JUST FOR DOGS...
Failure to Socialize
The reason why dogs make perfect pets is because they are
extremely social animals by nature, meant to be around people
Top Mistakes Pet Parents Make
pet care
and other dogs. One of the cardinal sins most pet owners make
is neglecting their dogs for too long, eventually distressing and
depressing them due to lack of interaction. Humans like us may be
pressed with work and social engagements, but that’s absolutely
no excuse to leave our pets behind! Ideally, a caretaker should
be present with the pet throughout the day; it is never advisable
to leave a pet in the house alone for hours on end (four hours
alone is the absolute maximum limit). Alone time only leads to
destructive behaviour and anxiety issues, or worse, kidney or
bladder problems due to housetrained pets not being able to
relieve themselves while the pet parent is away.
Neglecting to socialize your baby, especially at an early age,
can make normal activities such as walking or visits to the vet a
living nightmare. A dog not used to being around other people
or pets tends to become very protective or territorial, and worse,
aggressive. On weekends, try to take your pet out as much as
possible, even for simple errands. The exposure to other humans
and other pets will do your baby a great deal of good, making for
a more satisfied and sociable pet. Plus, the car ride or brisk walk
will definitely be the highlight of your baby’s day!
Anthromorphising
Anthromorphising is a term which means treating your dog as
if it were a person. More often than not, it’s sooo easy to forget
that our furry little babies aren’t actual people, especially when we
talk to them and their eyes and ears perk up as if understanding
our every word! Apparently, in the long term, treating dogs like
humans will result in the dog thinking he or she is the pack leader,
wanting to get his or her way all the time and failing to respond
the way the pet parent wants him or her to.
Much like a child, there are limits to how much we can give our
pets, and if we lavish them with too much attention and gifts, they’ll
definitely grow up to be spoiled and mischievous. Good news is
that this behaviour can be treated, but treatment is actually for
the pet parent (not the pet). Hard as it may be, simple solutions
involve giving treats as a result of good behaviour instead of out
of the blue, or controlling all privileges the pet finds of value such
as walking, playing, sleeping areas, petting and attention, so that
the dog will learn that they must work for things and you establish
yourself as the pack leader.
Parenting a pet can be an incredibly challenging task at times,
but in the end everything becomes all worth it when you witness
your pets grow up to become well-behaved, socialized, and smart
members of society. Yes, our pets will always be our babies, no
matter how old they get. But, as pet parents, our role is not babying,
but parenting, and this involves teaching them how to be the best
pets they can be.
Issue No. 5 www.bowandwow.com.ph 3
pet care

Make Fleas Flee!

www.animalwellnessmagazine.com

They might be tiny, but they’re tough, hardy, and persistent. If
you share your life with a dog or cat, fleas and ticks are often
a fact of life especially during the warm weather months. In
worst case scenarios, they can make your furry baby wretched,
causing intense itching and inflammation, anemia and lowered
immunity, or worse, dreaded illnesses such as ehrlichiosis and
Lyme disease.
But as resilient as fleas and ticks are, you don’t have to put
up with them, or resort to fumigating your pet and home with
toxicchemicals.Implementingaholistically-designedprevention
and control program is the best way to go, and the following
suggestions can help your baby get through flea free.
Start with prevention
Don’t wait till fleas and ticks make their appearance before
doing something about them. Taking preventive steps help your
dog or cat repel any fleas or ticks, and greatly minimize the
chances of an infestation. The two keys to prevention are a
healthy immune system and good hygiene.
1. Diet
2. Supplements
The great thing about flea and tick repelling
supplements is that they’re also good for overall
health. Salmon, cod liver, or flaxseed oils are full of
essential fatty acids that promote healthy hair and
skin. Try the supplements from Iceland Pure for a
healthy boost of Omega-3 from fish oils. Another
good alternative to help build immunity is the Yeast
& Garlic supplement from PetGuard.
3. Grooming
Frequently brushing your
dog or cat removes the dead
hair, mats, and tangles that
provideaperfecthidingplace
for fleas and ticks. Ideally,
your pet should be brushed
daily. Invest in a flea comb: this fine-toothed grooming tool is
designed to snag adult fleas, such as the JW grip soft flea comb. Be
sure to get the comb as close to the skin as possible and pay special
attention to areas where fleas and ticks congregate: under the legs,
around the head and tail, and the belly area.

A good diet will not only improve your baby’s overall

wellness, but will also go a long way towards keeping fleas
and ticks at bay. Feed a high quality diet made with whole,
natural ingredients, free of hormones and pesticides. Stay
away from cheap commercial diets containing artificial
preservatives, by-products, and other additives. Our vets
recommend the all-natural food brands available in Bow
& Wow.

4
Make Fleas Flee!
 pet care

4. Bathing directly. However, essential

oils should NEVER be used
Regular bathing is a highly effective way to help keep fleas on cats.
and ticks off your baby. Be sure to use a gentle shampoo with
natural ingredients that won’t dry out or irritate the skin – aloe Herbal collars such as
and oatmeal is an excellent choice. For dogs, you can also select those from PetGuard are a
from natural shampoos, conditioners, and rinses that contain flea- good natural alternative to
repelling essential oils such as lavender, rosemary, tea tree, mint, control fleas and ticks.
citrus, and neem. These oils offer the added benefits of soothing
and refreshing the skin, and cutting through odor and grease When dealing with a serious infestation, it can be tempting
without drying the coat. to resort to chemical treatments. While it is true that some of
these products work faster than more natural alternatives, you
We especially love Ark Naturals Neem Protect Shampoo and pay for it by exposing your pet and yourself to harmful substances
Spray. Neem is commonly used even for humans to keep away that can have a variety of adverse effects. These treatments
biting insects, and is very effective at contain highly toxic ingredients such as : Fibronil which can
keeping fleas and ticks away naturally. cause skin irritation, thyroid cancer, skin irritation and damage
You can even use the spray on your to organs, nervous system and
furniture and baby’s beddings, too! Other reproductive system, Imidaclorprid
great choices are the lavender, tea tree which can cause organ damage
oil, and eucalyptus variants of EarthBath and neurological or reproductive
shampoos.When bathing your baby, soap disorders, and Selamectin which
well, especially around the areas where cancausevomiting,diarrhea,muscle
fleas and ticks can collect, and try to leave tremors, drooling, and lethargy.
the lather on for 10 to 15 minutes, to When chemical treatments really
drown them. Rinse thoroughly. need to be used, we recommend the
Bio Spot line of products available in
Control Measures Bow & Wow.

What if you already have a flea and tick problem? While

preventive measures can help, they don’t actually kill the fleas,
eggs or larvae. So, as well as looking after your baby’s hygiene and
health, you also need to tackle his environment and take necessary
control measures in order to have a real impact.
5. Inside and Outside the house
Go on a major cleaning spree. Thoroughly vacuum all carpets
and upholstery, taking care to get into all those dark corners and
crevices and along the baseboards. Dispose of the vacuum bag
promptly. Launder in hot water anything that can be washed,
such as cushion covers, curtains, or bed spreads. Frequently wash
your baby’s bedding and regularly clean all other surfaces he lies
on. Outside, clear any piles of dead leaves, brush, or other yard
and garden debris, and keep dog houses or cat enclosures clean
and dry.
Fleeing Fleas Forever
When dealing with fleas and ticks on your baby, the best way
is to prevent rather than to treat active infestations. Your baby’s
health and safety should always be your utmost priority. Refrain
from using chemical-based topical or spot-on treatments unless
absolutely necessary. In the event of an active infestation, seek
veterinary advice on best products to be used that will suit your
pet’s lifestyle and risk of exposure to toxins and allergies. Since
we live in a warm and humid climate, flea and tick prevention and
control should be a year-round process and is a very crucial part
of your baby’s overall well-being.

6. Last Resort: Topicals

For dogs with fleas, essential oils can make an effective

alternative to chemical spot-ons. Tea tree oil is especially effective.
Keep in mind that essential oils are very strong and should be used
sparingly, best to dilute them with water rather than use them

Issue No. 5 www.bowandwow.com.ph 5

Make Fleas Flee!
petiquette
Tips on How to Make Your Dog Stop
Humping & Mounting
www.pawlux.com
Most pet parents who own male dogs are all too familiar with
that embarrassing feeling when they have house guests over and
the dog gives a warm welcome by taking a humping fancy to one
of their legs, going and going like the energizer bunny. Perhaps
visitors, couch pillows, new furniture, and stuffed animals have
fallen victim to your dog’s out-of-control and horny humping
behaviour. Watching your dog get personal with random strangers
& household family heirlooms can be quite disturbing, but this is
not abnormal. So, how can we curb this unsightly and annoying
behaviour? Below are some helpful tips to get your dog to
dismount and calm down:
1. Just say “No” - Remember, you are the alpha dog and pack
leader. Never be shy and always let your dog know who is boss.
A firm “NO” or “STOP” will make your dog aware that this
behaviour is not appropriate. In order for a verbal correction to
work, your dog has to understand that you are the leader. You
can also clap your hands to get your dogs attention. Never hit
your dog to curb bad behaviour as this will only evoke fear &
resentment towards you.
2. Spritz Away! - Spray your dog with a spritz from a water bottle
when he or she starts to exhibit humping & mounting behaviour.
For frequently humping dogs, carrying a spray bottle around at
all times can be quite handy. Having a spray bottle on hand is a
gentler way of giving your dog a message that this is not proper
pettiquette.
6 Tips on How to Make Your Dog Stop Humping & Mounting
3. The Root of the Matter - Learn the causes for dog humping.
Keep in mind that dog humping and mounting is not always sexual
in nature but can also be a way for them to display dominance or
admiration. Other times, humping may have nothing to do with
sex or dominance, but rather it may simply be a form of play. Dogs
aged 6 months to 2 years are the ones most likely to hump. If
they get into the humping habit at that age, it will be much harder
to break later on.
4. Re-focus Your Pup - Dog humping is an instinctual response.
Change your dog’s focus to stop the behaviour. Distract your dog
in mid-hump with his favourite toys, a walk & exercise, or any
other sort of playful redirection. If he likes a good game of fetch
with a frisbee or ball, toss one across the room to re-channel his
energies.
5. Ignore or Give Silent Treatment - Dogs love attention so
perhaps as simple as it may sound, ignoring the behaviour may
do the trick. Leave the room suddenly. Ignoring your dog’s
performance will let him know that his humping is not gaining
your approval. Your dog may stop humping if you totally stop
paying attention to him.
6. Spay or Neuter Your Pet - Spaying and neutering not only helps
control pet population, but it will slow down your dog’s urge to
hump everything in sight. But spaying & neutering is no sure cure
if your dog has firmly established the habit. Male dogs that hump
may have increased testosterone levels. Studies have found that
neutering stops humping in 60 percent of the cases.
7. Training Day! – For extreme cases, consider enrolling your
dog in obedience training or what some may call doggie boot
camp. Seek help and advice from an experienced trainer or
canine behavioural specialist, who can train the dog to stop this
unwanted behaviour.
8. Exercise is Key - Daily exercise helps release pent up aggression,
energy, stress, and instinctual desires to hump. In most cases,
humping results from stress or aggression, especially if the dog has
contact with other canines. Take your dog out for at least one long,
strenuous walk and play time each day. Set aside enough time for
the dog to tire before you stop the exercise session.
9. Seek Veterinary Advice - In some cases, humping may be caused
by hormone imbalances that may indicate serious conditions,
such as hypothyroidism. If the problem persists, it is best to seek
veterinary advice.
Issue No.5 www.bowandwow.com.ph 7
8
 vetspeak

A healthy pet is a pampered baby!

By: Lester Louis L. Lopez, DVM
Vets in Practice Animal Hospital

Pampering your pets begins by
providingthemoptimalhealthand
medical attention. Your vet should
be able to give you information on
what vaccines to give and when to
give them, what to feed your pet,
how to groom them, and what
medicines to give to prevent, or
if affected, how to treat certain
diseases.
There are two general ways of approaching the health of your
beloved pets, either by conventional or alternative means. The
Conventional type is the more“scientific”approach to it – man being
able to create or invent medicines and protocols that would help
prevent, control, or treat disease conditions. The Alternative type
is more reliant on the naturally-sourced medicines and therapy.
In both ways, the correct diagnosis of a condition is important.
Either way works, more so when combined, the important factor
being that it should put off or alleviate pain and suffering of your
pets.
When a pet is sick, one of the best ways to ensure that they
recover fast and well is to allow the owners to spend time with
them even, or more appropriately, especially when they are cage-
confined in a hospital where IV lines need to be attached, or
injectable medicines are to be given. A few minutes of TLC will
go a long way. Your pet will not feel abandoned, and the owner’s
presence can give them assurance that they are well taken care of.
Besides, having an owner visit their confined pet regularly allows
the vet to assess the responses of the patient in their presence.
One of the best ways to ensure your pets are healthy is by
giving them the shots and all anti-parasitics (including anti-worms,
anti-ticks, anti-fleas, etc.) they need as they grow up, pretty much
similar to those given to human babies. A lot of diseases can be
prevented by giving these prophylactic medicines.
A doctor from our practice came back to work today bearing
bad news – one of her dogs died due to complications after
contracting blood infection from ticks. Her pets, some months
ago, had a bout of tick infestation. She lost a lot of blood, was
very weak, and eventually passed away.
This incident is just one of the many that have recently been on
the rise due to a type of rickettsia called Ehrlichia that causes blood
destruction. Ehrlichia is transferred from one dog to another by
ticks. Where there is severe tick infestation, Ehrlichiosis, or blood
parasitism, can occur.
Caring for your pets is essentially the same as you would for
yourself and your family – make available a nurturing home, all-
natural food and lots of love and affection. Provide them also a
good veterinarian who would give them the complete medical
attention they need, and guide you as pet parents the facts you
need to know so your pets can live a full life.
That is pampering at its best.

No scientific studies have been made but our experience tells us

otherwise. Many times, dogs that have undergone a major surgical
procedure would not eat on their own, but if the owners came to
feed them, they would eat even just a small amount – and that is
vital information for a vet who needs to ensure the recovery of
a patient.

Having the owners around can also provide the attending vet
tips that, despite how quirky or simple they may be, will allow the
vet to see if the patient is becoming his or her old self again. These
are usually the time and where exactly their pets poo or pee, the
type of food or treats they like or the manner which they like to
be approached or touched or carried.

Dr. Lester with one of his babies, Patch ( a 7-year old Shih Tzu)

A healthy pet is a pampered baby! Issue No.5 www.bowandwow.com.ph 9

 ask the vet

Ask the et
By: Ma. Mylene L. Maranan, DVM
Bow & Wow resident Veterinarian

Our competent resident veterinarians and pet consultants shed Q: How can I get rid of the nasty smell on
light on various topics about pet parenting. Send in your questions my dog’s coat?
toinfo@bowandwow.com.phorpostaquestiononwww.bowandwow.

A:
com.ph and they’ll be more than happy to answer you!
Q: How can I boost my pet’s immune system?
The problem might be in the type of shampoo used.
We recommend shampoos containing orange peel
since this de-greases the coat to remove dirt and grime
as well as alleviate the stench. Shampoos containing

A:
The key to having a healthy pet is to have a healthy pet
from the inside out. Always ensure that you provide
your baby with all the things that would ensure that
they are healthy – food, water, shelter, activity and play, proper
veterinary care, and lots of love. Good quality all-natural food
is best for your baby. Food high in protein is a good source of
the needed amino acid building block for antibody production.
Antibodies fight the harmful elements that make a pet weak and
sick. The added vitamins and minerals in food also improve the
function of the anti bodies in the body. Our premium pet food
brands in Bow & Wow are all carefully selected to ensure that it
is the best possible food you can feed your baby.
If owners are not sure of the quality of food they are buying for
their pets, or if the pet is a picky or small eater, supplementation
is necessary to balance out the nutrients lacking in the food they
eat. Supplements especially designed for pets are best as they have
been formulated to meet the requirements needed by the pet.
Pet parents should follow the suggested amount on the labels and
adjust according to the age, activity level, and reproductive stage
the pets are in at the moment they are giving the supplements.
We have a great range of supplements available in the store.
rosemary essences also work well as this herb is a proven natural
deodorizer. Try Earthbath Orange Peel or Buddy Wash Lavender
& Mint shampoos.
Another reason for the nasty smell might be coat and skin
related problems. This can be remedied by altering the diet. Some
pet food contains the ingredient, yucca shidigera, which can help
improve the coat as well as the smell of the pet’s droppings. Some
products we can suggest are Merrick and Canidae dry kibbles.
Remember to introduce new food slowly into the existing diet as
abrupt changes can cause digestive upsets. If the condition does
not improve after altering the grooming products and diet, we
recommend that you seek veterinary advice.
Bow & Wow recommends Vets In Practice Animal Hospital for the best veterinary care
and services. For inquiries and appointments, contact them at (02) 531-1581.

Proper vaccinations at the appropriate time in the life of the

pet, as given by the veterinarian, are also a good way to boost the
pet’s immunity against microorganisms. Viruses can easily weaken
pets’ immune system, and as the only known help that we can
give to animals are just symptomatic relief, prevention is a must.

Lastly, providing proper physical and mental stimulation, such as

play and exercise, also increases their immunity. Buy high quality
toys designed just for pets and spend adequate time playing with
them. When spending time with their family (both humans and
other pets), the happy hormones in the body of pets are increased
significantly, consequently making them healthier.

10 Ask the Vet

Issue No. 5 www.bowandwow.com.ph 11
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Issue No.5 www.bowandwow.com.ph 13
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Issue No.5 www.bowandwow.com.ph 15
you and your pet
Caring for our Babies
By: Andrea Michaela Yang Lanuza, Bow & Wow Pet Parent
Daniella
Big dogs have big hearts, but short lifespans. Daniella andTxacoli,
like every dog out there, are each one of a kind. Because we know
we will never have another Daniella or Txacoli, we would like to
keep them with us for as long as we possibly can by caring for
our babies as best as we can.
Daniella, the Great Dane, was raised by a food critique who
taught her excellent manners and passed on his love for delectably
prepared meals. By the time she came over to our condo, Daniella
was perfectly housebroken. She knew how to move around tight
spaces without breaking a thing. She is also quite the gourmand,
instantly recognizing the sound of a can of broas being opened
and easily able to eat yoghurt or ice cream out of a courtesy cup
of McDonald’s.
To balance out the more than occasional treat Daniella receives,
we make sure to feed her holistic and natural dog food. We
learned that Taste of the Wild is excellent tasting healthy food, but
is generally priced lower than other brands because they spend
less on advertising and packaging. On the other hand, Merrick’s
canned gourmet food makes a scrumptious addition to dry kibble,
especially with their Lunchbox set of assorted cans contained in
one pretty package. Since Daniella is quite picky about her food,
we normally rotate between three different brands of kibble,
changing brands after every bag.
Txacoli is our English Mastiff puppy. Since we got her, we’ve
started feeding her Merrick’s Puppy Plate for now. Though Taste
of the Wild is for all life stages, its protein content is a bit too high
16
for large breed puppies. Protein content that is too high could lead
to the puppies growing too quickly for their bones to support, so
we will wait until she is about a year old to start her on Taste of
the Wild. Merrick’s puppy food comes in a nice re-sealable bag
so it’s really convenient. Plus, it’s so great because when water is
added to the Merrick kibble, it turns into a savory gravy sauce
blend Txacoli absolutely loves.
Besides all-natural food, we also get a few other things for them
from Bow & Wow:
Earth Bath Ear Wipes come in handy for regular ear cleaning.
Earth Bath Mango Tango shampoo is the best shampoo we’ve
used so far.
Urine Off is essential to have when housebreaking a puppy.
Merrick’s real bones keep Daniella busy for hours and hours.
Nylabone sticks keep Txacoli busy during long car rides and
while at home, too!
Daniella is completely attached to the fluffy blankets she sleeps
on every night. She prefers this to the extra large mattress we
tried to get her at first, and we just throw the blankets into the
washing machine when they get dirty.
As a pet parent, caring for our babies Daniella and Txacoli is
always my number one priority. I know that providing them with
the best products available will ensure that they live the healthiest
and happiest life possible.
Txacoli
Editor’s Note: Thanks for sharing your story with us, Andrea! As a token of our ap-
preciation, we’re giving you an exclusive Bow & Wow pet travel bag. Please visit our
store in Shangri-la to claim your prize. For other pet parents who want to share their
stories, you may send in your contributions to pssuarez@bowandwow.com.ph.
Caring for our Babies
Issue No.5 www.bowandwow.com.ph 17
18

Breed Spotlight: The Persian Cat
www.persian-cats.com
History and Origin
The Persian is one of the oldest known breeds of cats in
existence, with records dating back to the times of Pharaohs in
Egypt. It is generally believed though that the cat originated in
Persia (now known as Iran) and Turkey. They were brought over
to Europe centuries ago by Italian traveller Pietro dellaValle, though
it was not until the later half of the nineteenth century that their
fame truly began to spread. In the United Kingdom, they are called
Persian Longhairs or simply Longhairs.
Breed Standards
Over the years, through selected breeding, the appearance of
Persian cats have changed quite a bit from the time when they
were first introduced to the rest of the world. Their traditional doll
face has been developed into a shortened muzzle and flattened
high nose. Coat has become thicker and longer with a multitude
and variety of colors and patterns including smoke or silver, gold,
Breed Spotlight : The Persian Cat
breed spotlight
tabby, solid and bi-colors. Some colors are given
their own breed name – Himalayan which is a
pointed Persian and Chinchilla which comes in
silver or golden.
Persians are well muscled and medium to large
in size, with a short, thick neck, large shoulders, a
broad chest, and a short, straight tail proportionate
to the body. Body is heavy boned, cobby type, with
strong legs and large paws. Cats ideally weight
between 7 to 12 lbs, but Persians tend to be
heavier than other breeds. Persians have large
and broad heads with big and expressive eyes
set wide apart, small round tipped forward-tilting
ears set low and widely on the head, and a short
flat nose. Overall, their expression is sweet and
sometimes described as “pansy like”.
Temperament and Behavior
Persian cats have a sweet nature and are the
most gentle and docile of all cats. Typically, they
have a laid back personality. They are very
affectionate and tolerant animals who fare best
in a peaceful, loving environment with their
caretakers. They are quiet cats and generally get
along well with other pets and humans, although
boisterous children should be avoided. It is best
to keep Persians as indoor pets to free their
long exuberant fur from parasites even as they
have been occasionally reported by some to be surprisingly good
hunters.
Health and Exercise
Though they are highly sought for their beauty, Persian cats also
suffer from some health issues. Their long silky double layered coat
frequently gets matted and requires regular washing, drying, and
grooming to prevent tangles and hairballs. The modern flat-faced
Persians frequently develop respiratory problems owing to their
flattened nose that obstructs breathing as well as the tear ducts,
meaning that their eyes and nose require daily wiping to clean away
crusts. Due to their flat faces and heavy coats, some Persians may
have problems during hot weather and are best kept indoors. In
rare occasions, some Persians develop Polycystic Kidney Disease
as well. Life expectancy for this breed is normally about 15 years
and up.
Issue No.5 www.bowandwow.com.ph 19
canine conversations
Cross Over:
Adding Fun and Kindness to Canine Training
By: Elsie Louise Pfleider Araneta
Director, PAWS Animal Behavioral Training Program
Elsie is photographed with Sheba Braheheart Aspin of Owls Perch, who was adopted
from the PAWS Shelter when she was a 10-week old puppy. Sheba is now 1 year &
6 months old.
The Modern Dog Owner
As modern conscientious owners we bring our dogs to the
vet, groom them, choose their food carefully, and make sure they
always have clean water. We play with them and make them part
of the family. A growing number of us want our dogs to receive an
education and we ask, “What kind of education do I want for my
dog? What is my role in the process?” As with children, basic canine
manners and politeness are first taught at home.
My Dog Knows ...
Dogs learn, whether actively trained or not. Some of their learnings
will be acceptable and useful. My dogs associate rustling plastic with
the magical emergence of food. We use this to gather them up
quickly without force or intimidation. Sometimes dogs inadvertently
learnthingswecanfindbothersome.Myyoungestlikestoscufflewith
the other dogs after dinner, like a child fighting sleep. I usually find it
amusing and have allowed it in my bedroom. After one particularly
difficult day at work though I wish I never had. I was about to throw
a fit when I realized she was just doing what I had always said was
acceptable. The next day I had to start teaching them to settle on
cue.
There is a more organized approach, of course. You can list what
you want your dog to know and do, and what you do not want her
to do. For example, “I want my dog to jump for the Frisbee when I
throw it. But I do not want her to jump on my guests.” How many
on your list align with reality? That gives you a rough idea of where
to begin your dog’s education, and what to aim for. Now that you
know what your own expectations are, you should give your dog
enough information about them, and sufficient motivation to live
happily according to those expectations.
20
Who Trains My Dog? And how?
Here’s a heads up. You are your dog’s primary educator, even if at
some point you feel you may need professional guidance. I strongly
recommend dog-friendly and rewards-based training methods.
They are effective, humane, and loads of fun for you and your dog.
You might fumble but you can laugh about it and no one gets hurt.
If patience is a virtue you have been praying for, you will certainly
learn it this way and the good Lord’s pay off through your dog will
be amazing!
Traditional Institutions
Professional help is good if you find the right one. Many of us
who sought it have walked the path of trial and error. A dear friend
wanted her pretty aspin to be educated and well mannered. So she
called in the local trainer. To her horror, he started jerking Papi around
on a choke chain and at one point slammed the gate on the poor
creature’s head. The trainer was immediately thrown out. All he
could say was, “that’s how we teach them who is boss.” Thankfully,
a year later Papi is still running circles around her St. Bernard sister.
I too hired such a trainer almost 20 years ago. He would arrive on
a noisy motorbike and take my Boomer Beagle around the corner
for an hour. He insisted he had to do this himself. Six weeks later
he loudly announced, “He’ll sit when you say sit. And if he doesn’t,
you yank his choke chain like so and push his backside down.”I was
aghast at my own damn stupidity. We were supposed to be having
fun together. The misery written all over Boomer was not part
of the deal. No wonder he was aggressive towards the trainer. He
knew the man was a threat to his life. Till the day he died, Boomer
would bark and rage every time he heard a motorbike. How could I
have allowed my darling Boomer Beagle to go through that? Because
back then I knew no better.
A colleague from work decided on a more upscale alternative, a
board and train school. He was asked to drop off his young golden
retriever, Beauty, for a fairly expensive four-week camp. “Sir, no
peeking. You’ll see how well trained she is at graduation.”After they
got her back he swore he would never do it again. Something about
her lovely spirit had been broken in those four weeks.
The Alternatives
This is not say all special tutors, home schooling, or boarding
schools are sure paths to dog hell. The key is to know what methods
Cross Over : Adding Fun and Kindness to Canine Training
 canine conversations

the trainers use, and to be comfortable with them1. Some veterinary
clinics and pet hotels2 offer training programs. Ask about their
methods.
The Science of Dog Training
In the early 1900s, Ivan Pavlov proved that dogs can associate the
ringing of a bell with the appearance of food. They would eventually
drool when the bell rang, whether food appeared or not. That is
classical conditioning. It happened when my dogs equated rustling
plastic with food. It happened when Boomer equated the trainer
and the sound of motorbikes with pain. Boomer feared pain, and his
response was aggression directed towards the source of his pain - the
trainer and motorbike sounds. That is why we should avoid inflicting
fear and pain on our dogs. We do not want to be our dog’s bogey
man and have his aggression turned on us. You can train your dog
to associate two completely unrelated things and thereby elicit a
behavior. It is up to you to creatively select the associations so that
your dog learns happily, and without fear or pain.
to the fruit and cheese board. That is negative punishment where
absence of delight results in no more java brownies. I used it to
extinguish Sheba’s jumping for my mouth to greet me. Whenever
she did it, I simply straightened up, went still, and looked away from
her. As soon as she sat, I began petting her again. Two weeks later
we were still very excited to greet each other but the behavior of
jumping at my mouth had disappeared. I did not have to hurt her.
No knees punches to her chest, no pinching of the paws, no scruff
shakes. Just a simple, clean withdrawal of attention.
Thepotentiallymostunfairtypeofoperantconditioningisnegative
reinforcement.Imagineyourselfstillinthirdgrade.Yourteacherwants
you to recite the multiplication tables very fast. What if she uses
the human equivalent of the traditional aversive“yank and release”
method but this time using the “hand-on-hot-stove” technique? It
would be pretty horrible. By the third try you will be spitting out
those tables so fast she would not even have time to lay her hands
on you. You will almost certainly learn the required behavior, but at
what cost?

Some years after Pavlov’s experiments, B. F. Skinner proved that
mammals learn from the consequences of their acts. They repeat
behavior that is rewarded, and avoid what is punished. That is operant
conditioning. I used one type to teach Sheba to run up and down
the seesaw. I can now say “teeter” and she will run up the 12-inch
wide 10-foot long plank, tip it over with a bang, run down, and settle
at the end. How did I teach her to love it so much it has become a
prize for doing other things? Rewards!! Positive reinforcement!! Every
step of the way she was allowed to take her time, kindly encouraged
to take another step, and grandly rewarded for every advance. At
the end, she got a nice juicy piece of chicken liver. I never forced
her. I never let her get hurt. Can you imagine the amount of trust
that was built up in the process? Now she does it even without the
treat, and just for the fun of it. For me, it was pure joy to train her
with my brain and heart.
I would avoid using aversives. It can potentially damage or
traumatize the animal, as it did Boomer. Under no circumstance
should any of the following be used - inflicting pain or fear,
asphyxiation,“hanging”or “helicoptering,”or inappropriate restraint
like prolonged social isolation prior to training3. The way a dog is
trained affects not only his obedience skills, but the way he reacts to
things. It will definitely affect his relationship with you and the rest of
the world. Choose wisely. Opt for training with your brain, creatively,
kindly, and with fun.

There are three other kinds of operant conditioning. If you touch

a hot stove and burn yourself, chances are you will avoid touching a
hot stove in the future. That is positive punishment, the addition of
an aversive (burning pain) to extinguish a behavior (touching a hot
stove). It works only if you know how you got the pain. If you spank
your Yorkie for dirtying the rug, five minutes after the fact and after
she has run up to greet you, she will think you are hurting her for
coming to you. Two reasons for disliking this method: you are now
her bogey man, and she still has not learned where the toilet is.

What if instead of “yummy!!” your java brownie is met with a

distinct lack of interest? No rude remarks. Everyone simply turns

1 For guidance on choosing trainers visit Association of Pet DogTrainers, Australia at - http://www.apdt.com.au/trainers-directory/choosing-a-trainer.html. I would only add that whatever institution you go to,
you should be training your dog. A good trainer will teach you how to do it.
2 VIP Pet Hotel, #63 Maysilo Circle, Mandaluyong City and Bow and Wow Pet Shop, Greenbelt 5, Makati City.

3 Taken from “Professional Standards for Dog Trainers: Effective, Humane Principles.” Delta Society. 2001. p. 36.

Cross Over : Adding Fun and Kindness to Canine Training Issue No. 5 www.bowandwow.com.ph 21
pet health
Symptoms You Should Never
Ignore in Your Baby
www.petplace.com
There are serious symptoms that should never be ignored in
your dog or cat. A symptom is defined as any problem that can
indicate an underlying disease and may be your first clue to the
presence of a life-threatening problem. As a pet parent, this list
of common clinical symptoms should never be ignored if you see
them in your baby!
Not Eating or Loss of Appetite
This is often one of the first symptoms and can be pet parents’
first warning to a potential health problem. Loss of appetite can
have a serious impact on an animal’s health if it lasts 24 hours or
more. Young animals less than 6 months of age are particularly
prone to the problems brought on by loss of appetite, due to
nutritional deficiencies that may arise. Cats that don’t eat, especially
those that are overweight, may also develop acute life-threatening
liver failure.
Diarrhea
Because dogs and cats are smaller than humans, they can
become dehydrated more quickly than we do. Diarrhea that
persists for more than a day should always be addressed.
Vomiting or Unproductive Retching
Vomiting once after eating garbage is expected. Vomiting three
or more times in a day is concerning, and vomiting three or more
times in an hour may be an emergency! Dogs that attempt to
22
vomit and are unable to bring anything up is a common sign of
“bloat”. Generally speaking, if your baby vomits more than three
times in day or experiences unproductive retching, seek veterinary
attention immediately.
Unable to defecate or urinate
A pet that is straining or unable to urinate or defecate is in
immediate danger and at risk of bladder or urethral rupture, kidney
failure, blood poisoning, seizures and other worse conditions.
Male dogs and cats are at particular risk for urethral or urinary
obstructions. Trouble urinating can include straining to urinate,
frequent attempts at urination, and evidence of discomfort when
urinating. For cats, symptoms may also include spending more time
than usual in the litterbox or urinating outside of the litterbox.
Discomfort may be demonstrated by crying out during urination,
excessive licking at the urogenital region, or turning and looking
at the area. There are several underlying causes, and some of
the causes if left untreated can result in death in as little as 36
hours.
Sudden increase in urination or water
consumption
Conversely, if you suddenly observe your dog or cat constantly
at their water bowl, asking to go out more frequently, or you
notice you are changing the litterbox more often, these clinical
signs may be associated with diabetes, kidney or liver disease,
kidney or bladder infections, poisoning, hormonal diseases and
more. Dogs and cats normally take in about 20 to 40 milliliters
per pound of body weight per day, or one to two cups per day
for a normal-sized dog and one cup per day for a normal-sized
cat. Some pets may drink less if they eat canned food which has
more water content than dry food.
Breathing Problems or Coughing
Any changes in your baby’s breathing need to be addressed
immediately. Because cats and dogs have small respiratory tracts,
even seemingly minor breathing issues can quickly lead to life-
threatening situations.When your dog or cat has trouble breathing,
he may not be able to get enough oxygen to his tissues and may
experience respiratory distress. Coughing affects the respiratory
system by hindering the ability to breathe properly. Common
Symptoms You Should Never Ignore in Your Baby

causes include obstruction in the windpipe, bronchitis, pneumonia,
heartworm disease, lung tumors, heart failure, and kennel cough.
Never ignore a dog or cat that is coughing, panting more than
normal, fatigues easily or suddenly has loud or noisy breathing.
Bloody Urine, Vomit, or Diarrhea
Any of these should be evaluated by your veterinarian as soon
as possible. Some may be the result of minor ailments, while
others could be severe or even life threatening. Hematuria is the
presence of red blood cells in the urine, due to several possible
causes including bacterial infections, cancer, and stones in the
urinary tract. Bloody vomit or diarrhea usually signals infections
such as bleeding ulcers, intestinal parasites, foreign objects, and
more.
Seizure, Collapsing, or Fainting
A seizure or convulsion is a sudden excessive firing of nerves in
the brain, often a symptom of some sort of neurological disorder
including epilepsy, toxins or tumours. The severity of the seizure
can vary between a faraway look or twitching in one part of the
face to your dog falling on his side, barking, gnashing his teeth,
urinating, defecating and paddling his limbs. A seizure can last from
seconds to minutes. Acute collapse is a sudden loss of strength
causing your dog to fall and be unable to rise. Some dogs that
suddenly collapse will actually lose consciousness, called fainting.
Seizures, collapsing, and fainting are more common in dogs and
rare in cats.
Fever
A fever is defined as an abnormally high body temperature
resulting from internal controls. It is a method of fighting infection
as the body increases temperature in response to invasion of
foreign matter such as bacteria or viruses. The normal temperature
in both dogs and cats is 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit.
Red Eye
A “red eye” is a non-specific sign of inflammation or infection.
It may be seen with several different diseases including those
involving different parts of the eye. It may also occur with
inflammation of the structures inside the eye, with glaucoma (high
pressure within the eye) or with certain diseases of the eye socket.
Either one or both eyes can become red, depending upon the
cause of the problem. Some of the possible causes can be serious
and ultimately cause blindness.
Lethargy or Weakness
Lethargy is a state of drowsiness, inactivity, or indifference in
which there are delayed responses to external stimuli such as
Symptoms You Should Never Ignore in Your Baby
pet health
auditory (sound), visual (sight), or tactile (touch) stimuli. Lethargy
of more than a day’s duration should not be ignored, and should
be addressed, especially if it persists.
Jaundice
Jaundice describes the yellow color taken on by the tissues
throughout the body due to elevated levels of bilirubin, a substance
that comes from the breakdown of red blood cells. Regardless of
the numerous causes, jaundice is considered abnormal and serious
in dogs and cats.
Pale Gums
Pale gums or mucous membranes can indicate blood loss or
“shock”. The possible causes for either blood loss or shock are
life-threatening and thus should be evaluated immediately.
Bruising and Bleeding
Abnormal bruising and bleeding arises with disorders of
hemostasis or blood clotting. Bleeding from clotting disturbances
may occur into the skin, the mucous membranes, and various
internal organs, tissues, and body cavities. The impact of such
bleeding on the affected pet may be mild or severe depending
on the degree of blood loss.
Pacing and Restlessness
In dogs, pacing and restlessness can indicate pain, discomfort,
or distress stemming from a serious problem. Restlessness can be
associated with a condition called“bloat”or gastric torsion in which
the stomach dilates and twists abnormally due to accumulation of
air, fluid, or foam in the stomach, often related to swallowed air,
although food and fluid can also be present. Bloat most commonly
occurs in large breed or deep-chested dogs.
Important Disclaimer: If your baby is showing any signs of distress or any of the
symptoms mentioned above, SEEK VETERINARY ATTENTION immediately!
Bow & Wow recommends Vets In Practice Animal Hospital for the best veterinary care and services.
For inquiries and appointments, contact them at (02) 531-1581.
Issue No. 5 www.bowandwow.com.ph 23
pet parent profile

Lessons learned on Pet Parenting

By: Joey Mead, celebrity and Bow & Wow member

Noah is our brown sugar Prince and is now ‘Kuya” to Halle our
mini poodle, Felix & Shadow our adopted native cats, and Betty
our grey and white bunny of joy. That’s not all! My boyfriend
operates a mini aquaponic aquarium in our guest room and we
also have in the back of our home a pair of unmatched lovebirds.
Unmatched for both are different classes but have found love,
proving it doesn’t matter what color or class breed you are. Love
prevails.

Some days can be chaotic, but I wouldn’t want to change

Joey with her babies with Noah, Halle, Betty, and Felix.
Each time I come home to a house full of pets so ecstatic to
see me, it warms my heart. Apart from sheer joy that mummy or
daddy is back home, the unconditional love they gladly want to
share with you is a blessed feeling. When I was younger, I grew up
with a long hair Papillon and a tough black chihuahua that snores
louder than a trucker dude. I was used to smaller dogs with big
attitudes and wanted one of my own when I was ready, or so I
thought.
Its interesting how the universe works and introduces you to
certain people or situations to learn from. In my case, the lesson
to be learned was Noah, our big brown burly Rottrador or
Labweiller. I met Noah during a visit to my boyfriend’s rest home
in Lake Caliraya. A Tita of his is a massive animal lover and had a
recent litter of mixed breeds (Rottweiler cross yellow Labrador).
Just like a child, I was drawn like a magnet to the puppies. The
one brown pup who just slept every 5 minutes in all odd sleeping
positions struck a heart chord. Next day, without much thought
or deliberation with my significant other, Noah was now bundled
up on my lap, in the car, and on the way to his new home.
anything. Each pet has their own unique personality, and quite
often our household is in laughing hysterics from watching all the
crazy playtime antics everyone has with each other! Cats playing
with the dogs, or dogs and cats running around after the rabbit,
or the cats freaking out the birds in their cage.
From one became many and hopefully in the future more
adopted family members to join our crazy home. My birthday just
passed recently, and instead of receiving gifts, I asked friends to
buy dog/cat food that I can donate to the PAWS animal shelter. I
always do my best to support PAWS and CARA (where i recently
sent my two boy cats to be neutered). Calling all pet lovers &
enthusiasts to kindly find a moment to donate to these caring
animal shelters! It would be a fabulous dream life and wish for
no stray uncared for animals, no horrid puppy mills, or callous
segregation of pedigree breeds to exist, just happy pets enjoying
blissful life with their pet parents.

Lesson#1: Having a pet is a huge responsibility. Lesson#2: Puppies

pee every few minutes. Lesson#3: Puppies rip everything apart.
And, Lesson#4: All of the above!

I learned more about myself and my patience or lack thereof,

because of Noah. I learned how important it is for correct
discipline. I needed to assert myself & command him in an
authoritative manner. I realized that he was growing fast. I now
had a responsibility to my community and to Noah’s reputation.
I wanted Noah to be an ideal example of proper parenting. A
lot of Dog Whisperer shows later, plus real bonding time, and I’m
now proud momma of a well-rounded and happy baby.
Joey and Noah enjoying playtime. Photos courtesy of Raymund Isaac.

24 Lessons learned on Pet Parenting

Issue No. 5 www.bowandwow.com.ph 25
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