Car Engines and Cats

Having been in the veterinary industry for going on 25 years now, I have always heard about how you need to check your car’s engine compartment before leaving in case a furry creature (cat, in this case) crawls up in there for warmth. But I had never had a firsthand experience with this until last winter.

My parents live in Mayetta, KS, just north of Topeka; it’s about a 100 mile drive one way. One very cold day they came to KC for a visit. Dad is a little hard of hearing, so he thought he heard something funny in the engine compartment on the way down, but didn’t really think much about it.

After driving the 100 miles to get to my house, he pulled into my driveway. I was inside the house with all of the windows closed, and yet I could hear the most awful sound coming from his car. I really had absolutely no idea what could be making that sound…it was almost primeval. I went outside to greet my parents and found Dad at the front of his car scratching his head thoughtfully. I asked him, rather loudly to be heard over the screeching, what was making that terrible sound. He looked at me with a shrug and proceeded to pop the hood open. We both peered carefully into the engine compartment and saw a furry tail twitching just as fast it could next to the radiator. The noise stopped, and a small kitten’s head looked up at us.

As it happens, Dad’s barn cat had given birth to a few kittens just about 12 weeks prior to this trip. 
Apparently one brave (?) kitten had wandered out into the garage and had found a nice, warm spot to take a nap. When the car started up, he was either too scared or dumb (I say that with kindness) to crawl out. So, 100 miles later, there we were, literally pulling the kitten out of the engine compartment. He was scorched in a few places, but otherwise unharmed physically. We were absolutely amazed that he had survived the muck and grime of the dirt roads, not even mentioning the heat from the engine and all of the moving belts and fans. (I know very little about engines, but I do know there are belts and fans!)

Dad instantly dubbed that kitten “Lucky” and provided him with an inside seat on the way home!

So now, both Dad and I always give the hood of our cars a good whack before we start it up. Travelers belong inside the car, safe and sound.

Kerry 

 Practice Manager

Obscure Cat Breed of the Month: LaPerm

LaPerm is a cat that was “accidentally” bred on a farm in Oregon in 1982.  The farmer noticed that his barn cat had one completely bald kitten in her litter.  It had very large, wide-spaced ears and a blueprint pattern on her skin that mimicked a classic tabby patter.  She stayed bald until about 8 weeks of age, at which time she grew very soft, curly hair. By the age of 4 months, she had a full coat of curls.  The farmer just accepted this kitten as a unique mutant and didn’t think much of it.  However, over the years, the farmer noticed that more and more kittens were being born bald and then developing the same type of curly coat.  These cats, she also noticed, were some of the friendliest cats she had ever seen.  She began to breed these cats exclusively and that is how the “LaPerm” breed was established.

LaPerm cats come in either long or short hair, in any color imaginable.  Most are born bald, but some are born with a curly down that they lose within the first two weeks and then grow back again.  All of the LaPerm cats have one thing in common: their indisputable people oriented personalities. 

This breed of cat is highly valued for its affection and trainability.  Because their ultimate goal in life seems to be to please their owners, owning a LaPerm would seem to be a wonderful experience.

For more information, reach out to www.cfa.org.   If anyone reading this owns a LaPerm, we encourage your input and/or pictures!

Obscure Dog Breed of the Month: Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is a bichon-type dog related to the French Bichons and the Italian Bolognese.  This is the “Official Dog of Madagascar”, and has even been honored on a postage stamp in 1974.

Cotons, from the French word for cotton, have a very cottony or fluffy haircoat rather than silky.  They have a long topcoat which, when left long, resembles a bale of cotton.  Accepted colors for this breed are white, white & black, or tri-colored; however, the all white dogs are preferred by show breeders.

This breed is very friendly, gentle, affectionate and alert.  They are very sociable and get along great with children.  Since they are small, they make a great apartment dog for someone in that situation that wants a small, loyal friend.  They are also great watchdogs due to their attentiveness.  Their most endearing “trick” is their tendency to jump and walk on their hind legs. 

If you own a Coton de Tulear, please feel free to let us know about them or post pictures.  For more information about this cute breed, reach out to www.dogbreedinfo.com.

Trent: New Veterinary Assistant

We are proud to highlight Trent, Veterinary Assistant. Trent graduated from the University of Colorado, Denver with a BA in Fine Arts. He enjoys music, art and the outdoors. His cattle dog, Cash, is an avid Frisbee dog!

Mobilize the Earth for Earth Day 2012

The first Earth Day, on April 22, 1970, activated 20 million Americans from all walks of life to speak out against the deterioration of the environment and demand change. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency was created, the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts were passed,and the modern environmental movement was born.

Today, more than 1 billion people in 192 countries participate in Earth Day activities each year, making it the largest civic observance in the world. This year, in the face of global inaction on pressing environmental problems, we must harness that power.

Earth Day Network is calling upon individuals, organizations, businesses and governments to Mobilize the Earth™ and demand that environmental issues become a top priority.

Angie: New Front Office Employee

We are proud to highlight Angie, our new Front Office Employee, In her free time, Angie spends a lot of time taking care of her three rabbits, two cockatiels, cat and dog. She also enjoys playing her viola, messing with makeup, cooking, reading and hanging out with her buddies. She is currently a student at JCCC studying towards her Associate of Arts degree.

November is National Senior Pet Month

November is Senior Pet Month. Do you have an older cat or dog sharing your home? If so, you know the joys of pets who might have less spunk but more soul. Here are five reasons to love a senior pet.

1. Distinguished look
You know how as we age, we are said to look distinguished? The same is true for our pets. I think senior cats project an air of peaceful dignity. And who can resist the precious gray muzzle of an older dog?
2. Laid-back lifestyle
For kittens and puppies, most any time is play time. Older pets, however, don’t need to release all that youthful energy. They are quieter and often content to just watch what’s going on in the living room or outside the window. Cuddling next to you takes precedence over most anything else.
3. Fewer demands
Older pets still need love and attention, but they don’t require babysitting like a frisky puppy or curious kitten. Some older pets have special medical needs, but after all they’ve given us through the years, it’s an honor to take care of them in return.
4. Wisdom of the ages
When I look into the eyes of a senior dog, I see a world of experience and wisdom. Older pets know what to expect, and are generally reliable and even. They require little training since they already know the rules.
5. They might be just like you!
As we get older, our needs and routines change. We might prefer quiet evenings at home rather than going out on the weekends. We still like to exercise, walk, or even run—but sometimes we go at a different pace. We might even nap in our chair occasionally. If you have a senior dog, you might find that he’s just like you!

Puppy Behavior Class

Cherokee Animal Clinic will be hosting the next Puppy Behavior Class on Sunday September 25th! Our trainer, Dennis Bastian, has many years experience working with pets and their people and can help you and your pet develop a strong training relationship. Please call us at 913-649-0440 for a complete schedule and pricing information.

 

Obscure Breed of the Month-American Hairless Terrier

           This month’s Obscure Breed profile is on the American Hairless Terrier. This cute little terrier originated in the United States, hence the name.  It was bred to be a rodent hunter, just like its close cousin, the Rat Terrier. 

            While they are hairless, any skin color is considered acceptable.  An average adult size is 14-17 pounds, standing about 14-15 inches tall. They are considered intelligent, alert, lively, playful, feisty and inquisitive. They are highly trainable with a high activity level.  Owners of this breed had better be ready to PLAY, as this breed needs daily exercise and lots of it.  

            This pet is a great playmate for larger dogs, but be careful with pets the same size or smaller. Apparently they are “prey driven” and will chase and hunt smaller animals.

            If you are interested in more information about this playful breed, go to www.ahta.info.

Did You Know...

Did you know that Sir Isaac Newton, who first described the principle of gravity, also invented the swinging cat door for the convenience of his many cats? The story goes that Newton, working on laboratory light experiments, was repeatedly foiled by unwanted light from a cat pushing open a door. Not wanting to banish the cat, Newton c...ut a hole in the door, and attached a piece of felt to block out unwanted light. Since Newton and the cat were now happy, the world's first cat flap solved the light problem nicely. Do you have a Cat Flap in your home for your feline friend? If so, you have Sir Isaac Newton to thank!

 

Cat-Stravaganza

June is Adopt-A-Cat Month and Animal Haven kicked off the summer with a spectacular cat adoption promotion – our summer “Cat-Stravaganza.” Through Labor Day Weekend we are waiving ALL adoption fees on adult cats to approved adopters! 

Click here to learn more about “Cat-Stravaganza.”

Pet of the Month-Foxy

Foxy, our clinic cat, has been named Pet of the Month! Foxy was inherited by our staff from a previous client. We were boarding her for months on end when the owner finally confided that she would be unable to care for Foxy. The staff immediately pled with our owners to adopt her, as Yoda, the previous clinic cat, had just passed no...t long before. Adopting her was one of the best decisions ever made.

Foxy is a playful, very bratty companion to our staff. She has the most beautiful green eyes which she turns on you in a split second whenever food is around. People food, that is. During lunchtime, she can always be found roaming from chair to chair of the people eating lunch. For that reason, she is on a perpetual diet (which really doesn’t seem to be working).

Next time you visit us, ask to meet Foxy! She will enjoy your company!

 

Happy Birthday Melinda!

Happy Birthday wishes to Melinda, Registered Veterinary Technician at Cherokee Animal Clinic! We hope you have a very special birthday!

 

Pets and Cookouts

Cookouts are in full swing! We want to remind you that barbeque and picnic foods should not be fed to pets.  Please bring plenty of food and treats for your pets so that they can join in on the fun and food.  

Obscure Cat Breed of the Month

CHARTREUX

Known for their hunting prowess, Chartreux cats may have been taken in by those monks long ago to rid the monastery of vermin. Today, however, Chartreux cats are popular because they make terrific companions. They are amiable, loyal, and vocally quiet, and when you sit down next to your Chartreux you invariably end up with a lap full of cat. 

Known as quiet, sweet cats, Chartreux cats also have a playful, comical side that they keep well into adulthood. They seem to have a well-developed sense of humor, and enjoy a good game of fetch or a playful romp with their friends and family. They are very intelligent cats; they quickly learn their names and will come when you call, if they're in the mood, of course. 

Although the Char-treux is sometimes unflatteringly called a 'potato on toothpicks' because of its stocky body and slender legs, the Chartreux is extremely agile. The body type is sometimes called primitive because it is neither cobby nor classic, but is instead husky and robust. 

The Chartreux is generally a healthy and hardy breed, but some lines are known to possess the recessive gene for medial patellar luxation. The condition is genetic in origin, but the exact mode of inheritance is not yet known.

Remember to make hotel reservations for your pet over Memorial Day!!

Remember to make hotel reservations for your pet over Memorial Day!! Pets do not always travel well, so a cozy stay at Cherokee’s boarding facility may be just the solution. We board our cats and dogs in separate facilities, which greatly reduces the stress of boarding. Please call our office at 913-649-0440 or click here below to find out what we have to offer your pet.

Obscure Dog Breed of the Month

              

  The Leonberger dog, also known as a “Leo”, is a multi-purpose working dog that originated in the 1800s in the city of Leonberg, Germany.  The breed founder, Heinrich Essig, claimed he developed the breed by crossing Newfoundland, Saint Bernards, and Great Pyrenees.  Although the breed’s original purpose was to work as a family, farm, and draft dog, today the Leo’s most important job is to be a loyal and steady companion.

                The Leonberger is large and muscular, but surprisingly agile and light on its feet, which makes it a great agility trial competitor.  Males are typically larger than females; most adult Leos weight 100 pounds or more. Although this breed is gentle and friendly, they are not for everyone.   Obedience training is a must due to their size and strength.  They are generally calm and easygoing, but must have daily exercise.   They can be easily trained for pet therapy due to their demeanor.

                Leos have medium-length to long water-resistant double coats, which enables in their role as water rescue dogs. Male Leos have a luxurious, lion-like mane.  Like many double coated breeds, Leos shed a fair amount and need daily brushing.

                Excellent family pets, Leos are friendly and playful with children who are taught to respect the dog. The typically get along well with other dogs, and some can even coexist with other household pets, such as cats, if introduced properly.

                The average life span for healthy Leos is 7-10 years, which is typical of many large breeds.  Like all breeds, the Leo is susceptible to certain hereditary diseases. 

                If you are interested in owning a Leonberger, it is highly recommended that you research the breed thoroughly AND speak to longtime Leo owners.  Do not rush into getting one of these dogs; they take an owner who is willing to put the time and effort into maintaining their energy level and care. However, the effort is well worth the love returned by this gentle giant.

Did you know that animals that are overweight live two years less than pets at an ideal weight?  Obesity is fast becoming an epidemic among our pets.  Diet and exercise are the two most important factors in preventing and treating obesity.  We can provide a customized feeding program for your pet and get them back in tip top shape!

Team Member of the Month

Jessica has been a Veterinary Assistant at Cherokee since 2007.  She will graduate this May with her degree in Veterinary Technology from Maple Woods.  Jessica enjoys being a part of the quality veterinary care offered at Cherokee. When not at work or school, she spends her time with her two dogs, Kirra, a golden retriever, and Lina, a yellow Labrador.

Allergies

Is your pet’s itching and scratching keeping you awake at night? Spring is the beginning of allergy season as the pollen and mold counts rise. Pets are not born with allergies, they develop with repeated exposure. Chewing, biting, scratching, sneezing, itchy ears and watery eyes may be indications that your pet may have developed some allergies. We have developed a comprehensive plan to address these issues and would be happy to help your pet so they can enjoy the spring season as well.