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Park Slope Puppy Boom: How Our Pets are Helping Us Cope

By Filed Under: Bark Slope, Feature, Pandemic Diaries Tagged With: , ,

The overall mental health and wellbeing of our neighborhood (and entire planet) has shifted due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. With new stresses, a global financial crisis, and loved ones lost, there is much that can’t be replaced. Through it all, many of us have found solace in our new and old pets. Because individuals and families are spending more time at home than ever before, Park Slope has seen a “Puppy Boom.”

The Kingham family (Stuart, Roz, and 10-year-old Isla) rescued German-Shepard mix Macy to help uplift their spirits. While reluctant before Covid, Roz knew that getting a dog would give them something positive to focus on after Isla kept mentioning her experience with remote learning as “lonely.” Stuart reflected on his increased stress from all-day screen time, working from home, and worrying about the health and safety of his family, as a kind of low-grade PTSD. He reflects, “Everything was a worry, even going to stores.”

Though housetraining Macy was a challenge, they agree it has far outweighed the stresses of the outside world as the Kingham family saw their commitment to the new canine family member pay off. Over 2 months later, Macy is already growing up alongside Isla. Taking the time to step away from their screens and heavy workload, the endless news cycle, and the grief of pandemic losses to take care of puppy Macy has made Staut, Roz, and Isla feel a bit safer and happier.

Isla Kingham with her rescue puppy “Macy”

They train her together and connect with other dog-owners in the neighborhood. Roz says, “There’s definitely a dog community in Park Slope so just making that human connection on walks with other dog owners has been nice; everyone stops to talk when you have a puppy!” Their new routine includes early morning off-leash play in the park, after-school walks, and evenings spent on the front stoop where they sit to watch the world go by.

You’ll find many families enjoying similar daily pet pleasures. Park Slope has 10 dog parks, including the Prospect Park Dog Beach, making it an amazing community for pet owners. Pets, especially dogs and cats, are known to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, to ease loneliness and encourage exercise and playfulness. They also help children to grow up more secure and active, and provide valuable companionship for older adults.

These days everyone needs some extra stability, joy, and positive coping methods, one reason why pet adoption and sales have been through the roof this past year. Even veteran pet owners have become more appreciative and formed closer bonds with their furry friends. 

For example, the pandemic has heightened Park Slope resident, Ingrid’s anxiety; making her less motivated to deal with tasks beyond short term consideration. Ingrid said, “ Much of the structure I’ve built into my life over the years vanished overnight, along with any sense of what the future could or should look like.”  Her two cats, Cabiria aka Cabbie and Jean Harlow whom she’s had for over 3-years, have brought extra companionship and cuddles during these uncertain months of quarantining at home. “Taking care of the cats provide some structure to the days, and requires me to think about something other than myself… So I actually have something to discuss with friends or co-workers that isn’t horrible pandemic news or politics.” She’s found exchanging silly cat photos and having Cabbie and Jean meow over speakerphone a sure-fire way to bring a smile to anyone’s face.

Giselle with her partner and their rescue puppy “Pico”

Similarly, the unforeseeable future had spiked Diana Kane’s anxiety, so after some discussion adopting a dog felt like the right decision. And it was! Her family’s new 4-month-old rescue from Puerto Rico, Appa (named after the flying-bison from Avatar: The Last Airbender), has been a blessing for their mental and physical health. Diana and her family has been able to find peace and joy. She said, “I think Disney has it wrong: the Happiest Place on Earth is actually off-leash in Prospect Park.”

Giselle Navarro and her partner adopted a Jindo mix named Pico just before the city shut down. While worrying about their health and safety and only communicating with others through screens, they felt lucky to have Pico by their side. By structuring their quarantine days around the new puppy, their new routine for the new normal provides time to safely leave the apartment, stay motivated to train together, and actually get a steadier sleep schedule.

Pico’s need for cuddles and play was also a welcome distraction for Giselle. “She’s always so happy, I frequently tell others that I’m not sure how I would be getting through the pandemic if we didn’t have Pico. Living through this has been tough, but having her has made it a little bit easier. Even if I’m not feeling great, her good mood rubs off on me.”

When things are not Perfect with your Divine Feline

By Filed Under: Pet Slope Tagged With: , , , ,

Felis catus. Gato. Chat. Miw. Cat.

The ancient Egyptians worshiped them. We can’t get enough of them on YouTube and social media. In a world where many revere animals, there are but a few with whom we coexist in the same space. We are fortunate that the feline has found a way into our homes and our hearts. As we walk down the streets of our beloved borough, we see their content and peaceful faces in many apartment windows, enjoying the sunshine and birds in the trees.

When they are well, the relationship between cat and guardian remains simple and often peaceful. However, these independent creatures, with personalities the size of tigers, can be evasive and withdrawn. That makes it difficult to know when they are ill.

The first step in ensuring your cat’s good health is to schedule regular examinations with your family veterinarian to determine whether they are hiding anything of import. These exams should be conducted once a year for cats up to age six to seven, and twice a year for older cats or as directed for your special feline.

If they are acting well, this schedule is typically enough to catch a concern early. But how do you know when they are not well? What should you be looking for?

Here are a few of the changes you can see in a cat of any age that should alert you to the possibility of illness:

• Vomiting is not “normal” for a cat. The very infrequent hairball may be the exception, but if your pet is experiencing vomiting with any regularity, there is a health concern. It may be resolved with a simple change of diet. However, vomiting can also be a sign of many illnesses, including intestinal obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease, kidney disease, liver disease, parasitism, and even diabetes.

• Cats are also notorious for urinary bladder blockage and irritation from stones and crystals. Monitoring of urinary habits is SO important! If you notice any increase or decrease in urination, seek veterinary help. And make that appointment immediately (don’t forget your 24/7 ER hospitals) if your feline cannot produce urine or only a small amount is voided.

• Also of note: increased thirst, increased appetite— especially if accompanied by weight loss, weight loss alone, coat color change, diarrhea, too hard/formed stool or diminished or lack of stool production, hiding more than usual, having accidents outside the litter box, excessive itching, behavior changes, coughing, excess sneezing, decreased mobility (yes, felines develop arthritis!), and lethargy are just some of the reasons to seek evaluation.

ShadowOL2

Education is key to keeping your feline friend happy and healthy. Always start with your family veterinarian, but some on-line resources for education such as veterinarypartner.com, catvets.com American Association of Feline Practitioners and veterinary universities are great places to learn more. And remember, no matter what you learn, a disease can manifest uniquely in any patient. Some of the more common diseases that affect our feline friends, in addition to those mentioned above, include:

• Feline Leukemia Virus: This infectious condition is spread between cats mostly through exposure to saliva, nasal secretions, and during pregnancy and nursing. This disease weakens the immune system and can lead to blood disorders, including cancer. Cats who share food bowls and litter boxes and lived with infected cats are more likely to become infected. It is also common for outdoor cats to be exposed when they are bitten during fights. Ask your veterinarian about a vaccine, if you believe your pet is at risk.

• Feline Immunodeficiency Virus: This disease is very similar to HIV in people. It can be a terminal disease, however some felines live with this condition for many years without illness. The infection is mostly spread through bite wounds. Outdoor cats are the most susceptible. Again, ask your veterinarian about a vaccine.

• Kidney/Renal disease: This disease can develop with advanced age, exposure to certain toxins including the lily (do not have these flowers in your home if you have a cat) and can also be seen earlier in life associated with genetics disorders. Weight loss and increased thirst and urination can be some of the early warning signs.

• Diabetes Mellitus: This condition is seen in middle-aged to older felines. Treatment often involves insulin and diet change. Some felines can even go into remission, as we can, with proper diet and medical therapy.

• Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid can lead to weight loss, high blood pressure and heart disease. It is usually well controlled with medications or a more permanent procedure called radioactive iodine treatment.

• Heart disease: Cats are tricky in this realm—not all felines with heart disease have a heart murmur. However, if your cat is noted to have one, evaluation by a veterinary cardiologist is recommended. Many conditions have great medication options which can improve longevity.

Additional infectious diseases that are important to note include feline panleukopenia virus (‘feline distemper’) and rabies, but these are much less common thanks to commonly implemented vaccine protocols. Exposure to infectious disease is also greatly reduced when your feline is kept indoors. As city dwellers, most of us already do this. Just make sure those windows are secure!

Diseases we see in the feline are not so different than our own. We mammals all have similar complex systems. However, these processes can manifest in different ways and often can need very different treatment. The cat has a unique physiology so do not give medications without the advice of an animal medical professional.

Your feline gives so much to you every day. You know their normal behaviors, so don’t ignore it when they change. It’s also a good idea to carry pet insurance or start a savings account so that if a medical emergency should arise, you have a resource to help you make the best health care decisions for both of you. When in doubt, it is always better to have your friend evaluated by a veterinarian! You will be happy you did.

It’s Summer, Dog. Get Moving!

By Leave a Comment Filed Under: Bark Slope Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

As the temperature grows warmer and the days grow longer, many of us feel the urge to get outside and increase our level of activity. What better way of doing this than getting some exercise with our canine companions?

Exercising with your pet is a great way to bond and has health benefits—physical and psychological—for both of you. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, more than 54 percent of America’s pets are overweight or obese. Starting an exercise routine with your pet is an important step toward maintaining a healthy weight.
Exercise can also help your dog burn off the excess energy that can lead to behavioral problems such as hyperactivity, destructive chewing or digging, and attention-getting behavior such as barking, whining, and jumping up on people.
The additional activity is good for people, too. Did you know that studies have shown pet owners walk an average of 300 minutes per week, whereas non-pet owners only clock about 168 minutes? That translates into a greater number of calories burned, improved cardiovascular fitness, as well as better mental and emotional well-being.

Warm-up/Cool
down

Just like humans, there are some warm-up and cool down routines that may benefit your dog. Launching immediately into strenuous exercise increases your pet’s risk of spraining or pulling a muscle or developing cramps. And by cooling down, you allow your dog to catch his breath. His heart rate will return to normal, and the likelihood of post-exercise soreness will decrease as lactic acid is removed from his system.
The length of your warm-up or cool-down depends on you and your dog’s individual requirements, but five to ten minutes should be enough for your dog’s body to adjust. It can be as simple as taking a light jog or a brisk walk with your dog before and after engaging in any intense exercise.
Routines suitable and safe for your dog will depend on aspects such as age and pre-existing orthopedic conditions, so it is essential to consult with your veterinarian prior to starting a warm-up or cool down/stretching routine.

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Get
 Moving!


Are you or your pet new to exercise? The first step is to schedule a check-up for your pet to ensure there aren’t any heart or respiratory problems that should be addressed.
Once your pet has a clean bill of health, get started by introducing a ten minute walk into your daily routine. Try taking a stroll around Prospect Park and gradually build the length and intensity of your sessions as you and your pet adjust to the increased activity. Be sure to vary your route occasionally to give your pet new places to smell and explore.
For those who are already more active, on-leash running, inline skating, and bicycling are fun activities to do with a canine companion.

Here are a couple of important points to keep in mind:
• Dogs aren’t all well suited for jogging or running long distances. Many are built for short, intense bursts of speed. If you do decide to run with your dog, be careful not to overextend her. If she seems sore or exhausted after a jog, cut back next time.
• Be sure to check your dog’s paws after a run. Dogs are susceptible to blisters, just like humans. Hot pavement can also be damaging to a dog’s paws. Consider running or cycling on soft surfaces that won’t be as harmful, such as dirt or grass trails. You can also purchase booties to protect your dog’s pads.
• Sustained running or jogging isn’t recommended for young dogs whose bones are still growing. If you have a young dog, be sure to check with your veterinarian before taking her on a run.

If you’re looking for something more structured, try an exercise class designed specifically for dogs and their owners, such as Go Fetch Run (gofetchrun.com). Classes meet on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. and on Saturday mornings at 9 a.m. in Prospect Park.

Heat-Related
 Illness

As we enter the “dog days” of summer, it’s important to be aware of the heat-related illnesses that have the potential to turn a fun afternoon activity into an emergency trip to the veterinary hospital.
The most common heat-related illness people hear about is heatstroke. Heatstroke occurs when the body’s core temperature rises to a high level, inciting inflammation and organ failure. Avoid heatstroke by knowing limitations of your dog, breed specific problems and giving your dog time to adjust to the heat.
Our dogs dissipate heat through their skin and through evaporation from their respiratory tract via panting. They cannot sweat in the same way we do. Humidity makes heat loss through evaporation even more difficult, so be especially careful on humid days.
If your pet does become overheated, contact a veterinarian immediately. You can spray the animal down with room temperature or cool water, but never ice water. Ice cold water causes a decrease in blood flow to the skin and heat can’t escape the body, which makes heat exhaustion symptoms worse.
Don’t give sports drinks or electrolyte supplements to pets. Supplements like sports drinks can actually harm animals and make pets sick.
Lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and dark red gums are all signs of heat-related distress. If your pet is panting uncontrollably or collapses, take the animal to your veterinarian or nearest emergency veterinary hospital immediately.
Pet owners should also remember to make sure their pets have access to plenty of water at all times. It’s also good to stay near shady spots where a dog can rest and cool off if necessary. There are a number of pet-friendly businesses in our area that will provide water and a place to cool off for you and your pooch. Check Brooklynforpets.com for an up-to-date list.
Certain breeds, termed brachycephalic (short head), are at greater risk for heat-related illness because they have conformations that make heat loss from the respiratory tract difficult. Brachycephalic breeds include French bulldogs, English bulldogs, and pugs. These breeds should be exercised with extreme caution. A simple walk around the block may cause their temperature to rise to dangerous or even life-threatening levels.

Getting
 Used 
to 
the 
Heat

A good way to head off heat-related problems is to ensure your pet has adjusted to the warmer summer weather. Heat acclimatization is the body’s gradual physiological adaptation to heat stress. It is what makes an exercise a month into the summer less taxing than that same exercise in the first few hot days. Heat stress on the body is generated by the environment (a hot day), normal metabolism, and exercise.
Acclimatization includes changes such as salt conservation, changes in blood volume, and in humans, the amount we sweat. Heat acclimatization in humans takes around two weeks, so keep this in mind as you begin to take your dog out in the heat.
Also, consider exercising your pet early in the morning or later in the evening when the heat isn’t as intense.

Just
 Do 
It

Exercise can be fun and beneficial for both you and your dog. Whatever activity you choose, be sure it is one that is safe and that you both enjoy. Also, remember to use your common sense and consult your primary care veterinarian if you have any questions.

 

Dr. David Wohlstadter is a senior emergency clinician with BluePearl Veterinary Partners. He is also certified in canine rehabilitation therapy.

Bulldogs for Bastille Day

By Filed Under: Community Tagged With: , , , ,

All Smiles for the French Bulldog Party!
All smiles for the French Bulldog party!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Instead of storming the Bastille, these Frenchies were storming the water bowls in Cobble Hill last Saturday. For their fourth year in a row the fine goods store By Brooklyn held a French Bulldog party to raise money for a non-profit animal-related organization. This year, they raised money for Badass Brooklyn Animal Rescue, a non-profit organization that rescues all breeds of dogs from high-kill shelters in the United States.

Ever passionate, the French Bulldog community in Brooklyn turned out to the party in full force. Several of the attendees had their own Instagram presence, like the fashionable Walter, the affable Enzo, and the petite puppy, Frank. Overall, the event attracted thirty-two French bulldogs — Oh. And 100 non-canine guests attended as well.

Sniff, sniff. Do I know you from somewhere?
Sniff, sniff. Do I know you from somewhere?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

While the human attendees may not have been the main attraction, there were plenty of sponsors who donated to cater to their tastes. One Girl Cookies and Stinky Bklyn donated the cookies and cheese, respectively. After all, sweets and cheese are pivotal to La Fête nationale, right? While wine was definitely available, guests were also treated to sake from Dassara Ramen and beer from the Gowanus-based Threes Brewing.  Most importantly, however, there were plenty of dog treats and water bowls on hand to please all the pups.

Wine, Sake, and Beer were available to drink - as well as Water, of course.
Wine, sake, and beer were available to drink – as well as water, of course!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Between all the bullies, their owners, and other guests who just wanted to come and see the dogs, the benefit raised $1,100 for the Badass Brooklyn Animal Rescue. Whether they’re Frenchies or not, the real winners are Brooklyn’s dogs.
If you happen to be the owner of a Schnauzer or a Dachshund, keep an eye on By Brooklyn’s Facebook page. They have a similar event planned for Oktoberfest in October!