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Editorialt’s no secret that when it comes to animal wel-

fare, Texas has a lot of room for improvement.

With relatively weak legislation and a lack of law

enforcement, the animals that rely on us, are all too

often let down.

In this issue, we discuss the harsh truths about puppy

mills. Currently, there are no laws against puppy mills

and no state regulation to require minimum care stan-

dards. The Texas Humane Legislation Network is

working feverishly to get the Puppy Mill Bill passed

into law. To read about the bill, turn to page 14.

The end of summer is here, but that doesn’t have to

mean the end of vacations. Day trips are the best kind

of trips! Catch our photographer Ashlee’s story fea-

turing Wimberley for pet-friendly places to stay and

play in the Texas Hill Country.

URBAN PAWS MAGAZINEP.O. Box 1556Spring, Texas 77383281.384.5431www.UrbanPawsMagazine.com

© Copyright 2010. No part of this publication may bereprinted or otherwise reproduced without the publisher’spermission. Urban Paws magazine assumes no responsibil-ity for unsolicited manuscripts, feature and idea submis-sions, or photographs, and such unsolicited material willnot be returned. Urban Paws Magazine assumes no liability forthe contents herein and has the right to refuse advertising for anyreason.

Please tell our advertisers you heard about them inUrban Paws!

Also featured in this issue is Dr. Jim Amyx of Four

Seasons Veterinary Hospital. He’s a vet with a heart of

gold and his love of animals is genuinely apparent. To

read more about Dr. Amyx, flip to page 10.

If you are searching for a new furry family member,

be sure to check out the adoptable dogs in the Gimme

Shelter section of the magazine. Each and every one of

these dogs is available for adoption and deserves a lov-

ing home.

It’s back to school time and for many, that means that

Fido’s left wondering “What about me?” Treat him to

a little fun by checking out one of our calendar events.

He’ll love you for it!

Jennifer Kitchens

Issue 6: Volume 4www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

SSeepptteemmbbeerr,, 22001100

On the Cover

Photos by Ashlee Newman Photography.Urban Paws Magazine 5

I

For a full listing of events, visit:www.urbanpawsmagazine.com/events

SEPTEMBER 13Beginner Education class with Paw it ForwardTraining at Natural Pawz, Pinecroft. 6:00 pm. To register, visit www.pawitforwardtraining.com.

SEPTEMBER 14Beginner Education class with Paw it ForwardTraining. Villages of Cypress Creek. 7:00 pm.www.pawitforwardtraining.com

SEPTEMBER 15Intermediate Education class with Canine GoodCitizen Test Prep by Paw it Forward Training at FourSeasons Veterinary Hospital. 6:30 pm.www.pawitforwardtraining.com.

SEPTEMBER 15-21Warm Water Dog Swimming class at Rummy’s BeachClub. To register, call 713.446.3805 or visitwww.rummysbeachclub.com.

SEPTEMBER 18BBQ Fundraiser at Kingwood Dog Park, 619Lakeville Drive in Kingwood. 12:00 – 10:00 pm.Enjoy BBQ with live bands, venders and lots of give-aways. You can also check out the new VIP suites atKingwood Kennels while you’re there. Entry fee tothe event is a bag of dog or cat food or a $5.00 feeper family. All proceeds will benefit local shelters thatneed a helping hand taking care of homeless pets.For more information, call 281-358-4597.

SEPTEMBER 19Cleo’s 3rd Birthday Party. l’Allaince Francaise, 427

Lovett Blvd. 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm. Each year Cleo’sBirthday Party is held to raise funds for rescueorganizations and this year’s party will be benefitingA SMART Rescue www.smartpetz.com. This year’sevent will feature, food & beverages, silent auction, acat style show and live music by Greg Harbar andThe Gypsies. For more information contact Deborahat [email protected] or Cindy at [email protected].

SEPTEMBER 25Pedal or crawl for an afternoon of pub fun at severalWashington Avenue pubs to benefit the HomelessPet Placement League (HPPL). Drink specials, prizedrawings, and silent auction items will be available.12:30 – 5:30 pm. The crawl is limited to 52 Pedalersso be sure to purchase your tickets! The number ofcrawlers is unlimited. Tickets are $30 (pedal) or $20(crawl). To purchase tickets, visit www.hppl.org orcontact Jeannice Cain at 832-638-6786.

SEPTEMBER 27-30National Dog Week

OCTOBER 2Barkinglot Pawty fundraiser. Come out and showyour support for the Houston Dog Park Associationand the new Northwest Houston dog park presentedby Bark’s 5th Avenue. 10620 FM 1960 W from 10:00am - 4:00 pm. For more information visitwww.barks5thave.com.

Calendar

September 2010 Events

If you would like to have your event added toour calendar, please email us [email protected].

The pound sold her to a lab.Don’t let more dogs suffer her fate.

Visit www.aavs.org/LostDog

or eons, humans and animals have faredpretty well getting all their needed nutri-ents from food as nature intended. These

necessary nutrients include proteins, carbohy-drates, fats, fiber, vitamins and minerals. These,as well as thousands of other natural co-factorshave been identified as beneficial parts of thecomposition of the natural foods we eat daily.

Many health organizations, including the UnitedStates Cancer Institute and the United KingdomHealth Department, recommend that humansget their daily nutrient needs from a varied dietof natural, whole foods and not from supple-menting synthetic vitamins and minerals pro-duced in chemical plants. If this is recommend-ed for humans, shouldn’t we offer the same forpets, too?

Early in the 20th century, companies beganmanufacturing cheap synthetic forms of vita-mins, minerals and amino acids. These singularsynthetic elements became widely used in forti-fying processed foods or natural by-products offoods that lacked the normal amount of essen-tial nutrients, mainly for the purpose of feedinglivestock. The practice eventually evolved intopet foods, too, so cheap by-product feed stuffcould be used to manufacture these diets andnutrient profiles could be easily met by fortify-ing with cheap synthetic supplements. Withtheir growing use, also came the necessary stud-ies to determine their safety levels.

Unfortunately, the manufactured forms of theseelements do not come without risks. Many havetoxic levels and some even lethal dose levels.Just read a warning label on a human multiplevitamin/mineral iron-containing supplement or

Google® something like “MSDS+Vitamin D3”and read all the warnings on any Material SafetyData Sheet for this synthetic element. TheNational Research Council (NRC) has publishedtwo books on this subject, Vitamin Tolerance ofAnimals and Mineral Tolerance of Domestic Animals.Keep in mind; this is studying the tolerance ofman-made forms of these elements. There aresome very interesting statements in these books.

To paraphrase, these books say that the amountof studies and research on these synthetic ele-ments are insufficient, but the NRC uses theinsufficient data along with inference andextrapolation to come up with what they call“the presumed upper safe level” of the man-made synthetic forms of vitamins and minerals.They go on to state that the “presumed uppersafe level” determined from insufficient datausing extrapolation and inference should bealright to use for a short period of time (in thefeed lot) without showing signs of intoxication.

Getting your nutrients from food is soundingbetter all the time as being the right way to do it,but it does not stop there. Furthermore, they saythat studies of one year or more to learn poten-tial long-term effects have generally not been

Nutrition

Whole Food Nutrition vs. Synthetically Supplemented Pet Foods By: Scott Freeman,Nature’s Logic

F

8 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

conducted but should be. In addition, genera-tional studies on the potential negative geneticeffects of synthetic supplements have not beendone but should be. Lastly, tests have admitted-ly been conducted on single elements only.Studies to learn the potential negative effects oftwo or more elements combined at elevated lev-els are admittedly an unknown the NRC saysshould be studied.

Today, every commercial dry or canned dog andcat diet add as many as 26 of these chemicallysynthesized vitamins and minerals which the sci-entific community states long term effects havegenerally not been studied. The Venezuelanpolo team recently experienced a sad example ofthe intolerance and dangers of these chemical,supplemental compounds. Prior to a polo eventin Florida, the team of polo ponies was given asynthetic supplement concoction that includedsupplemental synthetic selenium. Within threehours 21 ponies had died. It was determined bythe University of Florida that up to 20 timesnormal levels of selenium were found in theponies’ tissues. David Barber, the University’stoxicologist, determined that there were abnor-mally high levels of selenium found in the bloodand livers of the ponies.

Tragically, errors in compounding and formulat-ing these chemical vitamins and minerals dohappen. As recently as the spring of 2006 highlevels of Vitamin D3 added to a pet food killeda number of dogs and cats due to a formulationerror of this synthetic vitamin, causing a condi-tion called hypercalcemia (elevated blood calci-um) and causing those pets to go into renal fail-ure. Most died within three to four days aftereating the food. Pet food that is marketed andsold as natural, if labeled correctly, is required tohave a statement on the packaging like or simi-lar to, “Natural with added vitamins and miner-als.” This statement is a required labeling dis-claimer to let the consumer know that the added

vitamins and minerals are not natural. Perhapsthey are saying to “use at your own risk” whichis the purpose of a disclaimer.

Adding to the concern should be the fact thatmost synthetic vitamins, minerals and syntheticamino acids, such as taurine, now come fromChina; the country that caused the unprecedent-ed 2007 pet food recalls due to an intentionalmelamine spiking of exported pet food ingredi-ents. In studies on animals, the negative effectsof high levels of these synthetic forms of vita-mins and minerals are everything from renalfailure and cancer to hypercalcemia and death.Health organizations and health professionalstime and again, have encouraged getting ournutrients from food. Numerous times, incorrectamounts of synthetic nutrients have been for-mulated into pet food or pet supplements withthe results being illness or death to pets as wellas costly recalls. When the scientific communityadmits more studies need to be conducted onthe use of these elements, the case appears veryconvincing that it is better and safer for not onlyhumans, but pets, also, to get their nutrientsfrom food.

Earlier in the article, it was stated that all com-mercial dry and canned diets use synthetic sup-plements. This has been the fact until justrecently. Nature’s Logic brand of pet foods isthe only known full line of pet products in theworld that never uses synthetic vitamins, syn-thetic minerals, or synthetic amino acids in any-thing. All essential nutrients for your pet comefrom the real whole foods in each diet; just theway nature intended for animals to safely obtainthem. This is the logical way pet food should bemade and is the logic behind Nature’s Logic. Tolearn more about Nature’s Logic, visit us atwww.natureslogic.com.

TREAT YOURSELF | Subscribe to Urban Paws today.

10 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com Dr. Amyx examines Labrador Retriever Koi.

whom he competed in team roping in manyrodeos. He then adopted a mixed breed dognamed "Daisy" and a Blue Heeler named"Dally." He credits Daisy and Dally with helpinghim through his anatomy classes while studyingat Texas A&M.

In an ongoing effort to improve his knowledgeand skills in dentistry, emergency/critical careand soft tissue surgery, Dr. Amyx works eachfriday nights at the Animal Emergency Hospitalat SH 249, maintaining and improving his emer-gency medical skills - skills he brings to his pri-vate practice daily.

Four Seasons has also brought in Dr. JustinPayne, a surgical specialist, to perform orthope-

dic, neurologic and soft tissue surger-ies at their clinic.

our Seasons Veterinary Hospitalopened in November of 2007 as afull-service, small animal veterinary

hospital providing comprehensive medical, sur-gical and dental care. I recently sat down withDr. Amyx to learn more about him and his prac-tice.

After receiving a Bachelor's Degree in AnimalScience from Texas Tech University in 1996 anda Bachelor's Degree in Veterinary Science fromTexas A&M University in 1997, Dr. Amyx wenton to pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicinedegree from Texas A&M University. From therehe graduated with honors in 2000. While attend-ing college, Dr. Amyx worked in the pharmacyat Texas A&M.

Dr. Amyx says that he initially planned to pursuea career in the human medical field since he hasalways enjoyed science and solving challengingproblems. With time, he realized that his truedesire was caring for animals and felt that he wasbetter suited for veterinary medicine.

Growing up, Dr. Amyx owned numerous dogs,hamsters and cats. As a member of his highschool FFA, he showed Maine Anjou heifersand steers, winning many contests with hisfavorite heifer, "Stacy". Dr. Amyx also raisedand showed a lamb and a pig named "Bucket".

While in Veterinary College at Texas A&M, Dr.Amyx owned a horse named "Digger" with

FBy: Jennifer Kitchens; Photography by Ashlee Newman Photography

Getting to Know...Getting to Know...

Dr.Dr. AmyxAmyx

Urban Paws Magazine 11


Dr. Amyx findsthat the most rewarding part of

his work is being able to fulfill the trust thatpeople have in him and his staff. “Often times, Iencounter patients in critical condition andwhen they are successfully treated and are ableto return to a normal life, it makes me feel asthough I have made a contribution to their fam-ily.” He is very proud of the compliments thathe receive from him clients regarding his staff.“It is nice when people appreciate how much wecare for their pet and the quality of care that weprovide.”

Outside of caring for animals, Dr. Amyx enjoysboating, yard work, home improvement projectsand spending time with his wife Ann and twochildren Claire and Ryan. However, owning andoperating a veterinary practice keeps him prettybusy.

At the present, Dr. Amyx owns a very fierceChihuahua named "Winnie" (adopted from the

SPCA), two dachshunds named "Molly" and"Cammie," and a Lhasa Apso named "Emmy."He is pet uncle to an adopted lab mix named"Taylor," two boxers named "Abbee andBentlee," and two siamese cats named "Hudsonand Halle."

When asked about his most memorable patient,Dr. Amyx had this to share: “My most memo-rable patient was Chi-Chi Zapata, a FrenchBulldog. Chi-Chi had a long battle with aninfectious disease that she acquired overseas.She was a very sweet dog and had thestrength and heart of a lion as she foughther disease the best that she could. Wewould sometimes see Chi-Chi severaltimes a week for treatment. During her

treatment, she literally became a very close partof our family. Ultimately, after 18 months oftreatment at both Four Seasons VeterinaryHospital and Texas A&M University, Chi-Chipassed away as a result of her condition. Herparents, John and Leo, were extremely dedicatedto her, choosing to afford her every treatmentavailable to help her. When Chi-Chi passedaway, it was a very emotional time for John, Leoand for all of us at Four Seasons VeterinaryHospital. We will never forget Chi-Chi.”

If you are considering a veterinarian to care foryour furry friend, we highly recommend FourSeasons Animal Hospital in Spring. The staff iswonderful, the clinic is impeccable and theyoffer state-of-the-art equipment to provide thebest care in your pet’s time of need.

Training

ver have a moment when you are at your wit’s

end because you have come home to another

mess created by your dog? Whether it is a

chewed up shoe, a freshly dug hole, or added teeth

marks to your furniture, dogs can surely test a human’s

patience. Perhaps you’ve even thought about bringing

your dog to the shelter because you can no longer han-

dle obedience and behavior issues? You are normal

for having these thoughts, but please do not turn

those thoughts into actions. By combating obedience

and behavior issues, you will not only strengthen the

relationship with your dog, you will also save the life

of another dog.

Did you know that the number one reason dogs are

turned in to shelters is for behavioral issues? We often

hear about “No-Kill Shelters” and the “No-Kill

Movement”. While this is a wonderful act of legisla-

tion trying desperately to get pushed through, it is not

a reality in Texas nor is it across the nation. Many peo-

ple feel they are giving their dog a better chance at life

by turning them over to the shelter. Even if the shel-

ter is considered a “no-kill” shelter, you lose all con-

trol over what happens to your pet.

Shelter life is no life at all for a dog, or any other kind

of animal. Their living areas are small, sometimes over

-crowded. Most dogs do not get to go for daily walks

and are forced to relieve themselves in their kennels.

The stress of the other dogs around them, such as

barking or growling, can cause their loving personali-

ties to get masked by fear. There is no guarantee your

dog will be adopted by a loving family, if the dog is

adopted at all. And to be honest, this is the least hor-

rifying way to describe the scenarios of shelter life.

You may still be wondering how you can save a life by

training your dog. By working with your dog and not

By: Chrissie DeCesarePaw it Forward TrainingCurbing Behavioral Issues Can Help Save Lives

E relinquishing your beloved pet to the shelter, you are

truly giving an abused or abandoned dog currently at

a shelter a chance for adoption. Shelters often offer

low-cost obedience classes. Some dog trainers are also

willing to give you a discount to assist in keeping you

from turning your dog into the shelter. You can even

start with something simple such as limiting the space

your dog is allowed to roam while you are away.

Believe it or not, dogs thrive on boundaries! You can

also pass your knowledge to family, friends and neigh-

bors who are considering relinquishing their dog to

the shelter for behavior problems. By “pawing it for-

ward” your family and your dog is happier, plus you

have just helped save a life!

Paw it Forward Training offers a lifetime 20% dis-

count to all dogs adopted from shelters or rescue

organizations.


12 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com14 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com

The vast majority of retail pet stores and internet pet

sellers acquire their inventory from commercial breed-

ing facilities known as puppy mills. Many of these

puppy mills also sell direct to the public through news-

paper ads and on the Internet. As the name would

suggest, these mills operate like factories, engaging in

a cycle of continuous breeding for profit to the detri-

ment of the animals.

The mill operator’s single-minded focus on profit

often leads to inadequate care and attention to breed-

ing dogs and puppies. All too often, the animals are

kept in unhealthy conditions, in over crowded filthy

and poorly designed cages and kennels. More often

than not, these living spaces are located outdoors and

offer little to no protection from inclement weather

conditions. Many puppies suffer broken legs or foot

injuries as they slip between the wire mesh of the

cages.

In addition, puppy mill operators offer limited care to

their animals and many fail to provide adequate food

and water. Veterinary care is rarely provided and

breeding females tend to be malnourished, ill and cov-

ered in sores. Sadly, breeding females lead a miserable

existence and are kept in repeated cycles of pregnan-

cy with their pups removed before they are properly

weaned. They remain confined nearly their entire lives

and are discarded or destroyed when they are no

longer capable of breeding. This can occur years

before the end of a healthy female’s natural life span.

Feature Story

Animal LegislationWill There be an End to Puppy Mills in Texas?

By: Jennifer Kitchens & Cile Holloway

Puppies bred in these mills are advertised and sold as

companion animals but the conditions in which

they’ve been produced often make them ill-suited to

bring the joy and companionship that the purchaser is

seeking.

The lack of socialization, especially with humans, is

another common symptom of a puppy mill environ-

ment. This can result in behavioral issues such as

extreme timidity or aggressiveness.

Little or no regulation is currently in place to require

minimum care standards of these operations. At the

federal level, puppy mill operators remain unregulated

if they sell directly to consumers (such as with

Internet sales). Even when licensed by the United

States Department of Agriculture (USDA) under fed-

eral law, the breeding operation may still operate

below minimum animal welfare standards because

USDA inspections are few and the fines are often

insubstantial.

Many states have enacted legislation to address puppy

mills by requiring breeders to obtain licenses and pro-

vide minimum standards of treatment and housing for

the animals in their possession. Texas, unfortunately, is

among the states without current licensing or regula-

tion in place for puppy mills. In addition to the inhu-

mane treatment of animals, the lack of licensing and

regulation has allowed the mill operators to avoid state

and local sales tax on the sale of their animals. The

resulting monetary loss to the state is quite significant.

Clarification and Brief Explanation of

The Puppy Mill Bill

Before you take a position on the Puppy Mill Bill,

please carefully consider its true purpose and what it

will and will not do and who it will and will not affect.

A huge amount of misinformation and confusion sur-

rounds the Puppy Mill Bill in regards to what it will

and will not do. Opponents of the bill allege that it is

intended to deprive people of pet ownership; to put

breeders out of business; to further some yet to be

defined animal rights agenda and other politically

charged accusations.

What the bill does not do and who it does not affect:

• Hobby breeders - this includes (1) breeders who

have 10 or fewer breeding females, or (2) breeders

who do not sell the offspring, no matter the number

of breeding females they have.

• Pet stores - the bill does not address pet stores nor

their sale to the public.

• Boarding kennels - the bill does not address

boarding kennels.

• Trainers - the bill does not address trainers, training

techniques (including field training) or training facil-

ities.

• Dog or cat shows, events or competitions - the bill

does not address in any way events, shows or com-

petitions.

The bill does not prohibit commercial breeding. It

simply licenses commercial breeders and requires

them to meet certain minimum standards in the care

and confinement of the animals in their custody. A

“commercial breeder” is narrowly defined in the bill to

mean only a person who possesses 11 or more adult,

intact female animals and is engaged in the business of

breeding animals for sale. Therefore, to be covered by

the bill, a person must have 11 or more breeding

females and must be in the business of selling their off-

spring. It’s clear from the definition that is bill is

intended to regulate commercial businesses and not

hobbies.

Unlike the bill introduced in the 2009 legislative ses-

sion, this bill contains no consumer protection lan-

guage such as “puppy lemon law.” The bill contains

no such language and provides no cause of action

against a seller of puppies and kittens by any buyer

thereof.

What the Bill Does and Does Not Require

of a Commercial Breeder

As stated earlier, the principle purpose of this bill is to

ensure the humane care and treatment of the animals

in the custody of large-scale commercial breeders. To

accomplish this, the bill requires that a commercial

breeder obtain a commercial breeder license from the

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

(TDLR). TDLR is the same agency that regulates busi-

nesses and professions from manicurists to electricians

to guard dog companies. As of last count, they regulate

over 28 businesses and professions. It’s equally impor-

tant to note that no non-government entity has any

power or regulatory authority under the bill. All licens-

ing, regulation and enforcement is performed by

TDLR or the local animal control authority.

The bill requires a commercial breeder to apply for a

commercial breeder license and pay a fee set by

TDLR. The fee for the initial license and subsequent

renewal licenses cannot exceed the amount necessary

to fund the cost of administering and enforcing the

regulatory program by TDLR.

A commercial breeder must allow TDLR to perform

an initial inspection and thereafter an annual inspection

of the breeder’s facility to ensure compliance with the


standards set by TDLR. These standards will be simi-

lar to those currently set forth in the United States

Department of Agriculture regulations for dog and

cat breeders under the Federal Animal Welfare Act.

They will basically cover the housing, feeding, veteri-

nary care and sanitation of the breeder’s facility.

More specifically, large-scale commercial breeding

facilities would be required to:

• Provide adequate wholesome food and clean water.

• Allow confined animals enough space to easily sit,

stand, turn around and lie down in a normal manner.

• Provide proper ventilation and adequate lighting for

animals confined indoors.

• Provide structurally sound shelter with proper pro-

tection from inclement weather conditions for ani-

mals confined outdoors.

• Maintain adequate sanitation conditions within the

living spaces.

• Provide proper handling, treatment and immuniza-

tion of animals for disease, parasite and pest control,

including proper care by a veterinarian and written

health records for each animal.

Currently, there are no laws against puppy mills and

no state regulation to require minimum care standards.

Opponents of this bill argue that animal cruelty laws

are already in place to allow for seizure of starving or

cruelly treated animals and therefore, additional regu-

lations are not needed. However, by the time that ani-

mal control investigators have enough evidence to

conduct a seizure, the animals that they find are either

dead, dying or in need of extensive medical care. In

any case, they have suffered needlessly for extended

periods of time.

2009 Texas Puppy Mill Seizures

July 7, 2009 Montague County - 496 dogs seized

August 13, 2009 Kingtown, Texas - 118 dogs seized

August 16, 2009 Kaufman County - 550 dogs and cats seized

September 22, 2009 Wichita County - 27 dogs seized

September 23, 2009 Northwest Houston - 1,049 animals seized,

approximately 900 dogs and cats

November 17, 2009 West Odessa - 70 dogs seized

November 19, 2009 Waller County - 61 dogs surrendered by

breeder due to inability to adequately providemedical care

November 28, 2009Utopia, Texas - 43 dogs and 2 cats seized

This bill addresses the cruelty that is inherent in this

industry by requiring that commercial breeders pro-

vide humane care and treatment of the animals as part

of their standard operating practices.

The Texas Humane Legislation Network is a main-

stream voice for the animals of Texas. THLN is the

voice of the Texas Legislature for untold numbers of

animals throughout Texas who suffer horrific abuse

and tragic neglect at the hands of callous humans. If

you agree that animals deserve compassion and that

their abusers deserve punishment, you are invited to

join the Texas Humane Legislation Network today.

To sign up for action alerts and other opportunities,

visit www.thln.org.

Paw Laws

Current Texas Animal Laws at a Glance

Health & Safety Code, Chapter 821Treatment and Disposition of AnimalsSubchapter B deals with the disposition of cru-elly treated animals. This is sometimes referredto as the “civil seizure law” that allows lawenforcement to seize cruelly treated animal(s)and provides for a hearing in which a court mayterminate the person’s ownership in the ani-mal(s).

Health & Safety Code, Chapter 821Treatment and Disposition of AnimalsSubchapter C deals with euthanasia of animalsin animal shelters. This subchapter requires ani-mal shelters to use only sodium pentobarbital orcommercially compressed carbon monoxide gasto euthanize dogs and cats and to follow themethods, recommendations and procedures setforth by the American Veterinary MedicalAssociation Panel on Euthanasia when eutha-nizing other animals such as wildlife or live-stock.

Health & Safety Code, Chapter 822Regulation of AnimalsSubchapter A defines ad deals with dogs that area danger to persons and provides for criminalpenalties for the owner of a dog that attacks andseriously injures or kills a person. It also allowsfor destruction of the dog.

Health & Safety Code, Chapter 822Regulation of AnimalsSubchapter C deals with county registration andregulation of dogs. Permits county voters torequire an elect to adopt rules governing theregistration and registration fee for dogs.

Health & Safety Code, Chapter 822Regulation of AnimalsSubchapter D deals with dangerous dogs. Thissubchapter is often used in connection withSubchapter A to deal with dangerous dogs. Thissubchapter establishes requirements for owners

of dangerous dogs and sets forth the methodfor filing a complaint and for a hearing to deter-mine whether or not a dog is dangerous. It alsoallows for more stringent rules at the local coun-ty or municipal level.

Health & Safety Code, Chapter 828Dog and Cat SterilizationSecs. 828.001-828.013 require an adoptionagency to either: (a) sterilize an animal before itis adopted; or (b) require the adopter to sign anacknowledgement agreeing to have the animalsterilized no later than the later of: (i) thirty daysafter adoption; or (ii) when the animal becomessix months old (females) or eight months old(males). It also allows the adoption agency to setforth its own standards for adoption. Theserequirements do not apply in a county with apopulation of less than 20,000 or a municipalitywith a population of less than 10,000.

Penal Code, Chapter 42, Sec. 42.091Attack on Assistance AnimalThis Section creates an offense for a personwho attacks, injures or kills an assistance animalor permits an animal owned by the person toattack, injure or kill an assistance animal.

Penal Code, Chapter 42, Sec. 42.10Dog FightingThis Section creates criminal offenses for caus-ing a dog to fight with another dog (state jailfelony); participating in the earnings of or oper-ating a facility used for dog fighting (state jailfelony); using or permitting another to use anyreal estate building or other property for dogfighting (state jail felony); owning or training adog with the intent that the dog be used for dogfighting (class A misdemeanor); owning equip-ment used in dog fighting (class A misde-meanor); and attending as a spectator an exhibi-tion of dog fighting (class A misdemeanor).


Something to Chew On

Dining With Dogs

here have been times when I, like many ofyou, have brought my dog to the outdoorpatios of restaurants. It certainly can be a

relief to be able to bring a dog to a restaurant if youare on a long road trip or take a holiday with the wholefamily, dog included. You can’t leave a dog in a car andyou can only stomach so many trips through the drive-through.

I realize that, while many of us are used to eatingwhile our dogs look on, other diners may not be thatthrilled about it. I can understand both views. Somepeople think that restaurant owners should be free toallow dogs if they so choose. Others think they shouldbe free to dine in peace without having to look at orsmell someone else’s dog.

While we may love our dogs and treat them like mem-bers of the family, there is one important thing toremember: Dogs are animals. They have been knownto get into scuffles with other dogs, be territorialabout food and, at times, have noxious gas. You alsohave to be prepared for other normal bodily functions.These things don’t always contribute to an enjoyabledining experience.

Regarding dog-friendly dining, it is understandablethat governing authorities—local and state—act withcaution. These agencies are charged with protectingthe health and safety of both diners and restaurantworkers. There is a lot to consider before letting dogsin the mix.

Most of us are aware that dogs are prohibited inHouston’s restaurants. The city’s ordinance--Sec. 20-21.28(f)-- banning animals from restaurants is takenword-for-word from the Texas Food EstablishmentRules §229.167(p)(15). The state’s rules apply to com-munities under the jurisdiction of the Department ofState Health Services (DSHS).

According to Christine Mann, DSHS spokesperson,“communities that have a local health department or a regulating entity may decide to allow pets on thepremises of food establishments.” There are a fewcities in Texas that have taken this on. Those commu-nities have done their research and crafted specialstandards for dog-friendly outdoor dining areas.

Dallas has created such a process by adopting a “DogVariance Ordinance.” The ordinance does not grantrestaurant owners carte blanche, but instead includes ahost of requirements. Although they are too many tolist, here are a few of those requirements: Provide aseparate entrance to the outdoor patio; post signs indi-cating that the patio is dog-friendly; install self-closingdoors at patio entrances; prohibit employee contactwith dogs; prohibit food preparation in outdoor patioareas; and provide water only (no food) in a disposablecontainer.

In addition, a strict cleaning regimen with “animal-friendly chemicals” is outlined. Dog owners must con-trol their dogs on leashes and dogs must wear currentrabies vaccination tags. More information can befound on the city’s website athttp://www.dallascityhall.com/ehs/food_dogs_faq.html.

It is clear that much consideration went into draftingthe Dallas ordinance and that the primary goal was toprotect the health and safety of fellow diners. ShouldHouston ever consider allowing dogs in outdoorpatios—an idea that is definitely worthy of an open,participatory community discussion—I hope thatdecision-makers will weigh the potential benefits todog owners, restaurant owners, community image, andquality of life. I also hope that dog owners recognizethat strong regulations, protecting the health and safe-ty of restaurant workers and fellow diners, couldensure the long-term success of dog-friendly dining.

T

By: Gretchen Loftus


state planning provides for those whomwe love and whom we want to comfortand take care of, should we die or

become disabled. We commonly provide for ourfamily and loved ones, but what about ourbeloved pets? For many of us, our pets are inte-gral members of our family, enriching our lives,bringing us joy, and loving us unconditionally. Ifsomething were to happen to you, can you beassured your pet would continue to be caredfor? Far too many animals end up on the streets,simply because their owners didn’t know how toprevent these tragedies.

Today, we will discuss only one of a number ofviable options for your pet’s protection. The“Traditional Pet Trust” is a legal technique usedto ensure that your pet receives that care. Youmay create a Pet Trust while you are still alive asa stand alone document (“Inter Vivos” or“Living” Trust) or upon your death by includingthe trust provisions in your will (“Testamentary”Trust). Simply stated, Settlors (pet owners) givetheir pet and money/assets to a trustee (trustedperson or bank) who arranges for the care of

The Basics of Estate Planning for Your Pet

Your Pet Trusts You... Do You Have a Trust for Your Pet?

the pet according to the Settlor’s instructions.The trustee delivers the pet to the Settlor’s des-ignated beneficiary (pet’s care giver) and uses theassets in the trust for the pet’s expenses.

In Traditional Pet Trusts, Settlors can specifyhow their pet should be cared for, how trustmoney should be spent, how the pet’s deathshould be handled, and any other matter theywould like to address. These trusts can be verysimple and basic or extremely lengthy and com-plex, depending on the wishes of the Settlor.

Our pets may not have the same rights and con-siderations under the law as people, but they doprovide us with companionship, love, and devo-tion. In return, they ask only that we providethem with the basic necessities: Food, shelter,love and protection. Ensuring that your pet con-tinues to have those basic necessities is theresponsible—and loving—thing to do.

The material contained herein is for informational purposes

only. The information provided is not, nor is it intended to be,

legal advice of any kind. You should consult an attorney for

advice regarding your individual situation. For more informa-

tion on how to obtain a pet trust, contact Elyssa M. Schnurr,

Law Offices of Elyssa M. Schnurr at (713) 662-2889 or visit

www.schnurrlaw.com.

E

By: Elyssa M. Schnurr, Law Offices of Elyssa M. Schnurr,

TAKE A HIKE FIDO!

Many of us love to travel with our pets, but finding

pet-friendly locations at your destination can be diffi-

cult. This a large reason why many of us choose to

board our pets when we go on vacation. However, if

you're like me and prefer to bring your best friend

along on your adventures, finding pet-friendly lodging

is imperative. I went on a hunt to find something a lit-

tle out of the ordinary in the Texas Hill Country.

The town of Wimberley, named after Pleasant

Wimberley, began as an unnamed trading post settle-

ment near Cypress Creek in 1848. Once the commu-

nity was established and continued to grow, it eventu-

ally become known as a resort town and become pop-

ular among tourists.

During my scenic drive to Wimberley, I found

Abundance Retreat right on the river. It was exactly

that! Owned by two very welcoming women, Tina and

Shelly, this little gem was the perfect get-away for

those looking to free themselves of life’s every day

stress. The rustic cabins and crystal clear Cypress

Creek instantly put you in a peaceful state of mind.

And the dogs are welcome to roam and play!

For breakfast or lunch, visit the Wimberley Cafe,

located on the square in the heart of Wimberley. After

a long day of sight-seeing, be sure to check out The

Leaning Pear on River Road. It’s one of the oldest his-

toric structures in Wimberley Valley, and this cafe

offers a pet-friendly covered stone patio.

Whether you plan to make it a weekend trip or just a

day in the hill country, the three and a half hour drive

to Wimberley is definitely worth it.

Where to Stay & Play With Your Pet in Wimberley

By: Ashlee Newman, Ashlee Newman Photography


The Leaning Pear’s mouth-watering stack of Migas.

Nothing like a canoe ride on Cypress Creek.

Relax with your four-legged friend at Abundance Retreat.

Gimme ShelterJoin us in helping our four-legged friends find loving homes. Adopt a dog today!

Chateaux a beautiful male Shih Tzu who isapproximately 2-3 years old. He was rescuedfrom Harris County Animal Control.

Chateaux is a very loving and loyal boy. He getsalong great with people and other dogs and willbe a great life-long friend to his new foreverfamily.

He is neutered, up to date on vaccinations andheartworm negative.

For more information about Chateaux, spon-soring, fostering or adopting him or any of hiswonderful friends at Lone Star Shih Tzu andLhasa Apso Rescue, visit the group’s web site atwww.shihtzu-rescue.com.


GentryBreed: PoodleSex: Male | Age: Adult | Size: SmallSmart Rescuewww.smartpetz.com

SweetieBreed: Terrier MixSex: Female | Age: Adult | Size: LargeHomeless Pet Placement Leaguewww.hppl.org

Cover Dog Chateaux

Photo by Ashlee Newman Photography.

Urban Paws Magazine 25Please note that these dogs may have been adopted by the time you visit them; howev-er, there are many more wonderful dogs in need of forever homes.

FloraBreed: Chocolate LabSex: Female | Age: Adult | Size: LargeSoutheast Texas Labrador Retriever Rescuewww.txlabrescue.org

VictoryBreed: Shar-PeiSex: Male | Age: Adult | Size: LargeNorth American Shar-Pei Rescuewww.nasprswregion.com

Chicklet HarrisBreed: Doberman PinscherSex: Female | Age: Young | Size: SmallLone Star Shih Tzu & Lhasa Apso Rescue, Houstonwww.shihtzu-rescue.com

Flett BarkerBreed: Lhasa ApsoSex: Male | Age: Young | Size: SmallLone Star Shih Tzu & Lhasa Apso Rescue, Houstonwww.shihtzu-rescue.com

Things WE LOVE!


SOMETHING TO WINE ABOUTReal Dogs Rescue Reservecan be personalized withyour very own photo andcaption.

This is a special reserveblend of two of thered “noble”Bordeaux varieties -Cabernet Sauvignonand Merlot.

10% of each sale isdonated to rescueorganizations acrossthe U.S. A greatwine, a great gift,and a great charita-ble cause - all in onebottle.

A personalized bot-tle of Real DogsRescue Reserve is$24.97. Available atwww.adogslife.net.

MMM... BACONTreat Fido to the biscuit withbenefits. Vitality treats aremade with real bacon andwhite cheddar and also con-tain flaxseed and vitamins tohelp maintain healthy eyes,skin and coat. $3.49 for 4 oz.Available online atwww.dogswell.com.

DEAR FIDO,This cute and innovative sta-tionery was designed for petlovers and gift-givers alike. Aportion of all proceeds aredonated to dog rescue andadoption efforts. $18.Available online atwww.lydiaandpugs.com.

GOAL!!This Orbee-Tuff Sport Soccer Ball isperfect for all backyard sportsenthusiast. This mini soccer ballwill keep your four-legged Pelehappy for hours - indoors or out.$16.45. Available atwww.planetdog.com.

TO ENTER: Email info@urbanpawsmagazine with yourname, address, email address and daytime phone number.Enter “Soccer Ball” in the subject line. Entries must bereceived by October 31, 2010.

WINTHIS!

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