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In Loving Memory of "Bella" Herron You will always be remembered! Your Vet, Brian Hablinski, DVM 10/06/07 |
We will periodically post pictures
and information about interesting pets and/or cases. We are
open to your suggestions. ***To view
previously Featured Pets/Cases continue to scroll down*** Montgomery Pet Partners, Inc. (MPP) |
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WHO WE ARE Montgomery Pet
Partners, Inc., (MPP) are volunteers in combination with their
pets who are committed to enhancing the quality of life for
individuals through the human-animal bond, the
naturally occurring affectionate connection between people and
pets. MPP has four volunteer initiatives: R.E.A.D.Æ
(Reading Education Assistance Dogs), hospitals, other health care
facilities, and libraries. SCHOOLS Our primary focus
is the development of literacy through R.E.A.D.Æ. Registered
R.E.A.D.Æ teams work one-on-one with emerging readers as
well as with students who may be identified as at-risk to
help improve reading skills. The unconditional love of these
friendly dogs provides the magic motivation that lowers blood
pressure, boosts self-confidence, and makes reading fun! Of equal
importance are the skilled, caring humans on the other end of the
leash who share a love of reading. Like their pets, they must
undergo extensive training, testing, and background checks to
insure their suitability for the task. MPP is proud to be a
partner in education! MPP participates in local educational
programs promoting dog care and safety, mentors pet owners through
the certification process, and serves the community in myriad other
capacities. |
HOSPITALS Our teams visit hospitals where they cheer up patients and
their families. Instant smiles mitigate patients’ circumstances,
reduce blood pressure, and supplant loneliness with "warm fuzzies".
Many patients pet the animals and talk about their own experiences
with pets of their own. This cathartic experience shifts the focus
away from other concerns. Everyone is just grateful for the company
and attention of both the human and the pet! ASSISTED
LIVING FACILITIES & SENIOR RESIDENCES At assisted living facilities and
senior residences, a visit from one of our teams leave heartwarming
smiles and memorable and repetitive episodes of laughter. The
seniors are quick to pet, brush, or throw a ball to our furry
friends. They thrive on telling stories about pets in their past to
anyone who will listen. Many ask questions about our pets and
engage in stimulating discussions. A visit†with a group of seniors
is a bright spot in a sometimes uneventful day. |
LIBRARIES Children learning
to read have benefited from attending the MPP/R.E.A.DÆ.
sessions at local libraries. The presence of the dog helps the
child relax and focus on enjoying and comprehending the story.†
Many children who have difficulty with reading have gained
increased confidence from time spent with a non-judgmental
R.E.A.D.Æ team, a best friend and great listener.
Going to the library has never been so much fun! Libraries report
increased circulation as a result. MPP shares a partnership
with The Montgomery County Memorial Library System where teams
visit a variety of library locations. HANDLER/DOG
CERTIFICATION Teams, which
include both the dog and the handler, are evaluated and certified
by Delta Society. Both the dog and the handler must pass the
evaluation to be certified. Dogs must be at least one year old and
have lived with the handler for at least six months. The dog must
be controllable, display a natural affection for people, and must
pass a physical by a licensed veterinarian. The handler must
be bonded with their dog, enjoy people, and be willing to volunteer
their time. They must comply with the requirements of the
initiatives in which they are interested in participating. |
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A dear "deer" (Rosey) sharing one of her favorite
stories at Conroe Central Library. |
WHAT YOU CAN
DO Join MPP
as a registered Delta Society team member in order to visit
locations with established written facility agreements. Volunteer to
serve as a director or board member. Help with the
training and/or evaluation processes. Make donations
through Pay Pal at the MPP website, or send a check to our
P.O. Box. LINKS www.montgomerypetpartners.org www.deltasociety.org www.therapyanimals.org Montgomery Pet
Partners, Inc. is a 501(C) (3) non-profit organization and
Associate Program of Intermountain Therapy Animals
Association. |
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"Teaka" Harrison Now
Happy and Healthy! In July
of 1998, "Teaka" injured her left front leg which gave her minor
lameness. Her owner administered human pain medication
(similar to "Ibuprofen"); the therapeutic dose in people is a toxic
dose to dogs. Exam: Abdominal pain; weight
loss, dehydration, anemia Diagnosis: Ulcers secondary to
human pain medication Treatment: Multiple anti-ulcer
medication; anti-vomiting drugs; IV fuids Progression: Condition worsened to
life-threatening peritonitis (infection and fluid build-up in the abdomen) Exploratory Surgery: The stomach
lining had ulcerated and pus was trapped in the lining of the
stomach. 5oomL of pus (1/2 Liter) was drained. |
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Result: Pet recovered
fully Point: Human pain medications like
aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetominophen are dangerous and
life-threatening to dogs and cats (even at low doses). There
are much safer pain medications specifically formulated for dogs
and cats such as Rimadyl, Deramaxx, Metacam, and
Tramadol. |
"Molly" Dyer taking a
nap |
Pet: "Molly"
Dyer (Kidney Failure) Breed: Yorkshire
Terrier Sex:
Female/Spayed Symptoms: In September 2002,
"Molly" was not eating, had excessive thirst, was vomiting and was
lethargic. Examination: Had inflammed gums, foul
breath Laboratory
Tests: BUN elevated; Creatine
elevated Diagnosis: Kidney Disease Treatment: IV fluids, antibiotics,
restricted protein diet, anti-ulcer medication Response: Good Mr. Dyer comes to our clinic
three times per week to have fluids given to "Molly". On
the last blood test, her kidney values were still
elevated, but they have improved since she was first diagnosed 2
1/2 years ago. Kidney disease is very common in dogs and
cats. Due to "Molly's" determination and Mr. Dyer's
dedication, she continues to be happy and have a quality
life. Added notation
(01/07): Unfortunately, Molly's condition deteriorated and was
put to sleep on January 15, 2007. She lived for 4 1/2
years after her diagnosis. We will never forget
her. May she rest in peace in doggy heaven. |
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