»feu>E

George Caleb Bingham's "Daniel Boone Escorting Settlers Through the Cumberland Gap: Greetings ... and welcome to the readers' circle of ANIMAL CAVALCADE. Ours is a different sort of magazine. It is in­ tended for people who simply love animals and for those who are con­ cerned with the care and health of their pets whatever they might be. Naturally, we hope that you will like the publication well enough to want to receive it regularly. We would be Official Journal of the Animal Health Foundation on animal care and health. delighted to have your comments on the magazine, the articles in this is­ sue, and any thoughts you may have CONTENTS FOR JULY 1970 Volume 1 Number 1 in the field of animals in general. In succeeding issues we will carry a de­ partment devoted to communications from readers, and hopefully yours will ARTICLES be among them. Centennial of a Great Dog Event, Mary Blair .... 3 Presidential Pets, Margaret Truman 5 This year's National Dog Week, to be observed September 20 to 26, George Ford Morris: America's Foremost Horse should be something special. Not only Portraitist? Jack Lewis 8 is 1970 the Year of the Dog (accord­ ing to the Chinese calendar); it also People Are Funny .. . About Animals, marks the 100th anniversary of that Charles Lawrence Lippincott, D.V.M. . . . .11 great day on which Senator George Graham Vest gave in court his mem­ What You May Not Know About Cats, orable "Tribute to the Dog." Read all Leon F. Whitney, D.V.M 13 about it in the lead article of this Superb Health Care For Vietnam War Dogs, Jim Weber . .15 The Little Lady Was Right, Betty Le Roy . . . .20 We could not go to press without Talking of Budgies, Eloise Keeler 23 something about today's pollution tragedy in which both man and his Are Pets in Your Travel Plans? Eleanor Price . . .24 animals are caught up. We elected to WILD ANIMALS AS PETS: 26 tell the story of Rachel Carson (see "The Little Lady Was Right"). Years The Case For, Donald R. Collins, D.V.M. ago she recognized what was happen­ The Case Against, Frederic L. Frye, D.V.M. ing and was among the first to sound and Jean-Paul E. Cucuel, D.V.M. the alarm. Under the heading "Our Panting Civilization," a recent issue of Medical World News quotes from DEPARTMENTS a speech warning against the contin­ Animal Health News 29 ued widespread pollution of our en­ vironment by British economist Bar­ Doctor's Advice ...... 30 bara Ward Jackson, "Humans breathe twice as fast as their grandparents be­ Animal Fun 32 cause the supply of oxygen is im­ paired." Let us not forget that what is bad for humans is equally if not more HARRY MILLER Editorial Director harmful to our animal friends. MILLWOOD A. CUSTER, D.V.M. Small Animals Editor CHARLES H. REID, D.V.M. Equine Editor ROBERT J. SCHROEDER, D.V.M. Ecology & Public Health Editor For many of us the yearly health OSCAR W. SCHALM, D.V.M. Research Editor check-up has become a must. Well, WESLEY A. YOUNG, D.V.M. Exotic Animals Editor the same idea is taking hold in the animal field. The case of a complete DON KAPP Art Director annual physical examination for the dog, as an example, has been summed up as follows by William E. Ryan, The Cover Painting D.V.M. of Iowa: "Dogs mature from 5 to 7 times faster than humans. As a matter of policy ANIMAL CAVALCADE will seek to use as cover Actually, during the first year a dog illustrations great paintings of historical interest featuring animals. For our ages as much as its owner does in 20 first cover we reproduce, courtesy of Washington University Gallery of Art, years, and thereafter the dog's ma­ St. Louis, George Caleb Bingham's "Daniel Boone Escorting Settlers Through turity rate is about 5 times that of the Cumberland Gap." The painting was created during 1851-52. No show of man. So if an 'annual physical' is im­ portant to the owner's health—then American art in the 19th century could fail to be represented by Bingham's a yearly check-up by the veterinarian work and the Boone painting was part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's is 5 to 7 times more important to your "Life in America" loan exhibition held during the New York World's Fair. dog! Early detection of health prob­ lems, plus ea «y treatment by your veterinarian is indicated, can help ANIMAL CAVALCADE published every other month by Animal Health Foundation, 8338 Rose- keep your 'ng healthy, vigorous, mead Boulevard, Pico Rivera, California 90660. Single copies 50c — 12-issue subscription, brimming wit im and vitality—and $5.00; two or more subscriptions, $4.00 each. All editorial correspondence and manu­ scripts must be accompanied by stamped self-addressed envelope. Copyright © 1970 by add many yea* s to his life span." Animal Health Foundation. 0

TOTHEDOG"Gentlemen of the Jury: where the wintry winds blow and the snow drives "The best friend a fiercely, if only he may be near his master's side. man has in this world may turn against him and He will kiss the hand that has no food to offer, become his enemy. His son or daughter that he he will lick the wounds and sores that come in has reared with loving care may prove ungrate­ encounters with the roughness of the world. He ful. Those who are nearest and dearest to us, guards the sleep of his pauper master as if he those whom we trust with our happiness and our were a prince. When all other friends desert good name, may become traitors to their faith. him he remains. When riches takes wings and The money that a man has, he may lose. It flies reputation falls to pieces, he is as constant in his away from him, perhaps when he needs it the love as the sun in its journey through the heav­ most. A man's reputation may be sacrificed in a ens. If fortune drives the master forth an outcast moment of ill-considered action. The people who in the world, friendless and homeless, the faith­ are prone to fall on their knees to do us honor ful dog asks no higher privilege than that of when success is with us may be the first to throw accompanying him to guard against danger, to the stone of malice when failure settles its cloud fight against his enemies, and when the last upon our heads. The one absolutely unselfish scene of all comes, and death takes the master in friend that a man can have in this selfish world, its embrace and his body is laid away in the cold the one that never deserts him and the one that ground, no matter if all other friends pursue never proves ungrateful or treacherous is his dog. their way, there by his graveside will the noble dog be found, his head between his paws, his "Gentlemen of the Jury, a man's dog stands eyes sad but open in alert watchfulness, faithful by him in prosperity and in poverty, in health and true even to death." and in sickness. He will sleep on the cold ground,

2 Illustrations from "The Old Drum Story" by Icie F. Johnson September 23,1870. The "Old Drum" trial nears its end. Lawyer George Graham rises to speak . . . CENTENNIAL OF A GREAT DOG EVENT

By MARY BLAIR

The courtroom was packed, the fig­ Despite Dick's statement, it was not ures of people shadowy in the dim a black dog but the black and tan light of a kerosene lamp. Rain splash­ Old Drum that was found dead. Bur­ ed relentlessly against the windows. den found him lying with his head With his hands rammed deep in in the water at Big Creek near Hay­ his pockets, the little lawyer with the maker's Mill. He'd been riddled with fiery red hair stood before the judge buckshot. The underside of the dog making an impassioned final appeal. was muddy and the hair ruffed up Then he finished and everyone was the wrong way as if he'd been drag­ crying shamelessly. ged. Also, there were sorrel hairs on So ended one of the strangest trials the body. in courtroom history. In legal terms The sorrel hair played an import­ the case was labeled, Charles Burden, ant part in the trial because Hornsby Respondent vs. Leonidas Hornsby, to the bugling of his dogs on the trail owned a sorrel mule. Appellant. But in truth, the trial was of a fox or 'coon. Burden now vowed he'd make some­ about a dog, Old Drum, a black and A constant companion and leader one pay for what he called the "mur­ tan Foxhound owned by Burden, and of his pack, Old Drum was considered der" of his beloved hound. Although surprisingly involved four of the most by Burden as an uncommonly valu­ the evidence was circumstantial, he prominent lawyers in all of Missouri. able hound, "as good as they could decided to bring suit for damages The litigation, which also encompas­ start." He stated later from the wit­ against Hornsby. sed four court sessions, spanned the ness stand, "He was good for var­ The first trial resulted in a hung period from Oct. 28, 1869, until the mints, wolves and such like, and was jury, and in the second, Burden won. final verdict, Sept. 23, 1870. as good a deer dog as I ever had . . . Hornsby countered by taking the case This year marks the 100th anniver­ Money would not have bought him." to the County Court of Common sary of what is considered man's On the fateful night of Oct. 28 Bur­ Pleas at Warrensburg, where the jury greatest tribute to his most loyal com­ den last saw his beloved hound when found for Hornsby. panion, his dog, an epilogue to the he came to the door near dark before Stubbornly persisting, Burden filed drama enacted that stormy night in leading the pack out. About 8 o'clock a motion for a new trial on the basis the courtroom. The classic eulogy of a gunshot sounded from the direction of new evidence and was successful. less than 400 words, which tipped the of the adjoining Leonidas Hornsby He bolstered his legal aid by securing scales in the trial, was a moving, ex­ place. The music of the hounds stop­ the services of prominent Sedalia law­ temporaneous address to the jury ped. Remembering that Hornsby, who yers, Col. John F. Philips, who later made by George Graham Vest, a 40- was his brother-in-law, had vowed to became a United States District year-old lawyer destined to become a shoot the first stray dog found on his judge, and George Graham Vest. United States senator. property because he had lost many Hornsby was represented by another The story unfolding in the old sheep, Burden was fearful that one strong legal team, Thomas T. Critten­ county courthouse at Warrensburg in of his dogs had been shot. den and Francis M. Cockreil. The Johnson County, Mo., centered "I called my dogs," Burden said, former became state governor and his around Burden's favorite hound, who "but Drum didn't come up." partner, a United States senator. was shot to death as an alleged killer The next day Burden saw Hornsby. Among the array of lawyers repre­ of sheep. "Lon," he asked, "have you seen sented in the long litigation was Da­ The setting was the western part of anything of my dog Drum?" vid Nation, husband of the hatchet- Johnson County, typical of many Hornsby replied that he had not. wielding, saloon-wrecking Carrie Na­ rural areas of the country in post- "What dog was that you shot last tion. Civil War America, heavily wooded night?" Burden demanded. Easily the most eloquent and capti­ and with plenty of game. Hornsby said he didn't shoot a dog. vating advocate of the "Big Four" Charles Burden was a farmer, a But Dick Ferguson, his young neph­ was the Kentucky-born George Gra­ rugged pioneer type, working hard ew, admitted he had, a black-look­ ham Vest. A graduate of Centre Col­ day by day and partial to sitting ing one, and that he'd only loaded lege and Transylvania University law about an open fire after dusk, supping the gun with grains of corn to scare school, Vest moved to Missouri and a strong cup of coffee while listening him off. began the practice of law in George- town in 1854. Two years later he at home when Ulysses set out on his because it was written or printed but went to Boonville and entered poli­ travels and when he returned 10 years because it has survived in the same tics and in four years was a Demo­ later disguised as a beggar, no one manner as ancient epics, folk songs, cratic presidential elector on the recognized him except the dog, who ballads, cowboy choruses, sea chant­ Douglas ticket. That same year he was weak and crippled with age. He eys and lullabies." was elected to the Missouri House of tried to lick Ulysses' hand, but was Old Drum made such an impres­ Representatives. too weak to do so and sank dead at sion on the people of Missouri that When the Civil War broke out, his master's feet. the Johnson County Historical So­ Vest returned to his home state to Listening to Vest's words, "He will ciety has acquired the old court­ offer his services to the Confederacy. kiss the hand that has no food to house as an historical landmark in He was representative and senator in offer," who would not be easily moved the town of Warrensburg and has the Confederate Congress and later by the story of a Roman slave's dog begun its complete restoration. served 24 years in the United States who stood howling by the side of his On the wall is a bronze memorial Senate, thus attaining the singular executed master. Taking pity on the tablet which reads, "Within these honor of serving in the highest legis­ faithful dog, a spectator tossed a walls on Sept. 23, 1870, Senator lative body of two nations. piece of bread to him. The dog took George Graham Vest delivered his fa­ It was said of him, "When all of the bread and held it to his dead mas­ mous eulogy on the dog. He died Aug. Senator Vest's wonderful speeches in ter's lips. When the slave's body was 14, 1904, and was buried in Bellefon- the Senate are forgotten, there is one thrown in the Tiber, the devoted dog taine Cemetery, St. Louis." that will live in history—his famous swam with it until overcome with ex­ Another memorial stands above the 'Dog Speech' delivered in Warrens- haustion. deer crossing on Big Creek, where burg." And in the final words of the eu­ Old Drum was found after he was The trial was a marvel of high- logy, "... when the last scene of shot. It was placed there by Fred powered oratory delivered by the big­ al comes, and death takes the master Ford, a Missouri hunter and lo\&er gest legal lights of the Missouri bar. in its embrace and his body is laid of hounds, who collected rocks from There were countless witnesses, ex­ away in the cold ground, no matter all over the world. Included were amined and cross-examined. if all other friends pursue their way, stones sent from the Great Wall of Among them was young Dick Fer­ there by his graveside will the noble China, White Cliffs of Dover, Ger­ guson, who, under cross examination, dog be found, his head between his many, France, Guatemala, Mexico, naively declared, "My stars! I haven't paws, his eyes sad but open in alert Jamaica, South Africa, Virgin Is­ seen Old Drum since I shot him." watchfulness, faithful and true even lands, Panama, West Indies and most When all the testimony was in, it to death." of the American states. was Vest's task to sum up the case, Yet repeated from historical times A granite stone on the base depicts drawing upon his unusual knowledge in the third century B.C. is the touch­ a dog treeing a coon. In one corner of literature and history that few men ing account of the devoted Hyrcanus, a deer is being chased, and in the of his day possessed. He ranged into the dog of King Lysimachus who was other, a fox. The inscription reads antiquity to tell of man's love for his killed in battle while fighting as one "Old Drum — Killed, 1869." dog and the dog's great happiness in of Alexander the Great's generals. A bronze statue of Old Drum, exe­ devoted, obedient companionship for The dog sorrowfully followed the body cuted by Reno Gastaldi, a St. Louis his master. as it was carried to the funeral pyre, sculptor, stands on the present court­ Vest seemed about to complete his and when the flames grew high, with house lawn. People of every station summation, then turned to the jury. a mournful howl, the dog leaped into in life, and of every creed and nation­ As was his habit, the slight lawyer the flames and perished. ality, helped with funds needed to with the drooping mustache drew The jury was out only a short time immortalize the famous hound. The himself up so that he appeared taller and when it returned Burden heard memorial statue, which honors all than his five feet six inches. His blue this final verdict: "We the jury find noble and faithful dogs who have eyes were as eloquent as his tongue for the plaintiff and assess his dam­ been the unselfish friends of their as he said, ages at $50." masters, was dedicated in 1958 by the "Gentlemen of the jury: The best Hornsby appealed his case to the attorney general of Missouri and Cap­ friend a man has in this world may state Supreme Court, which upheld tain Will Judy of Chicago, then pub­ turn against him and become his en­ the verdict of the lower court. lisher of Dog World. emy . . . The one absolutely un­ Old Drum was exonerated, and the An engraving of the text of the selfish friend that a man can have judgment marked "paid in full," as Old Drum speech appears in a plaque ... is his dog." noted in the margin opposite the re­ on the marble base of the statue. Every person in that courtroom re- corded verdict. After that eventful stormy night of caled a dog he had loved and the la­ The extemporaneous emotion-pack­ Sept. 23, 1870, when the famed eulogy vish devotion of the dog to him. ed address to the jury is often refer­ was delivered, it took years for the There is precedent in legend for red to as the "Lost Speech." Not wounded feelings of the two litigants Vest's stirring account of the noble transcribed by a court reporter, it sur­ to heal. Just as they had lived on dog's loyalty to his master. One of vives today through reconstruction adjoining farms, the brothers-in-law the most famous of ancient dog from memory by other lawyers pre­ are buried in the same cemetery only stories is that of Ulysses' dog, Argus, sent, and as Professor William Lyons a few yards apart. But their story is who spent the days hunting and play­ Phelps once wrote, "... we own lost in the shadow of a dog and his ing with his master. Argus was left this magnificent tribute to dogs not eloquent defender. A former resident of the White House herself, Margaret Truman has thoroughly researched her subject. t(6ii>(ntiai pets

By MARGARET TRUMAN Author of "White House Pets'

"There really is no difference be­ Mrs. John Quincy Adams also kept would contemplate for even an in­ tween a White House pet and yours unusual "pets": silkworms that feast­ stant. Would the typical suburbanite or mine except that those belonging ed on mulberry leaves and repaid accept an elephant as a present? Or to our Chief Executive receive more their hostess by spinning the silk for a zebra? A pair of frisky, sharp- publicity. But that is one of the haz­ the First Lady's dresses. I find that toothed lion cubs? A vicious bobcat? ards the President's pets must face— hard to believe, but it's supposed to A baby hippo? it comes with the office. be true. Well, at various times, several of Of those taking up residence at For the average family, the word our Presidents, including Martin Van the White House or at a Presidential pet means dogs, cats, canaries, para­ Buren, Theodore Roosevelt, and Cal­ summer home, some arrive with their keets, hamsters, and in cases where vin Coolidge, have been notified that distinguished masters or are pur­ a stable permits, horses or ponies. a friend, a foreign potentate, or gov­ chased shortly after the First Fami­ Generally, the same holds true for ernment official was giving such a lies are comfortably settled. Others our First Family, except that their beast to the White House as a token are gifts from friends, well-wishers, lofty position leaves them exposed to of esteem. Presidents, being politi­ or foreign officials. gifts that no family in its right mind cians, usually make a show of appre- George Washington, our first Presi­ dent, was also the first to receive gift pets. Admirers sent him some fine hunting dogs; from the king of Spain came a champion jack that he kept at Mount Vernon for many years. It should be remembered, of course, that Washington never lived in the White House, which was not completed un­ til 1800. A pet need not live within the con­ fines of the White House in order to be officially considered a pet. There are eighteen acres of grounds around the White House and there are plenty of squirrels living among the trees. Birds, too, find the White House an attractive place. A most unusual case of an odd ani­ mal staying at the White House oc­ curred during the administration of John Quincy Adams. General Lafay­ ette had been touring the United States from July 1824 to August 1825, and spent that last two months of his trip in the White House. Among the many gifts he had received was a live alligator, which he kept in the East Room. Frequently visitors who wan­ dered in came tearing out again— and very fast.

Andrew Jackson on Sam Patches 5 ciation at the thoughtfulness of the room at ground level, such as the take or leave pets—and Mike de­ donor. Then they ship the animals Flower Room, was pressed into serv­ veloped into quite a dog—physically, to the nearest zoo, which in the case ice as quarters for dogs. Favored dogs that is. However, he never outgrew of Washington, D.C., happens to be were allowed to roam about, at times being a puppy. On numerous occa­ the Washington Zoo on Connecticut sleeping in the bedroom of their mas­ sions I'd sit in a porch chair and Avenue. ter or mistress. promptly find myself covered with a Another problem that must be faced One of the most fetching dogs ever lapful of dog. Mike had no compunc­ by the White House tenants is accom­ to adorn the White House scene was tion about leaping onto me whenever modations. Many homes boast a good- a small spaniel belonging to Maria the opportunity presented itself. sized doghouse in the backyard; apart­ Hester Monroe, daughter of Presi­ Once Mike jumped into the garden ment dwellers allow their pets a cor­ dent James Monroe. pool and my mother's secretary, Re- ner of some room or even the freedom According to an item in the Wash­ athel Odum, jumped in to pull him to roam as they wish. But cats and ington Star dated November 22, 1895, out. Reathel, knowing nothing about dogs arrive constantly, and as pets Mrs. Grover Cleveland received a dogs, didn't realize he could swim. begin to pile up they must be quar­ nine-month-old, l1/^-pound, black Ja­ Result: one soaked, mad secretary; tered somewhere on the grounds. panese poodle. The dog, a gift from one soaked, delighted dog. Years before the Presidential man­ a Milwaukee man, August C. Klavel, Mike's problems were compounded sion was called the White House, was described as being the smallest by the White House police. They Presidents kept animals, usually hor­ pug dog in the United States. Obvi­ kept feeding him candy. Since the ses and dogs. Washington had both ously some mistake was made. Was setter couldn't refuse a handout, and carriage and hunting horses in stables it a poodle or a pug? Nobody is quite ate anything and everything, in a at the Presidential residences, in the sure to this day, but in all likelihood short time Mike developed a case of capitals located in New York City it was neither. Probably it was a Pe­ rickets. He was cured soon enough, and Philadelphia and at his home, kingese and not from Japan but from but I realized that Mike would be Mount Vernon. China. better off in someone else's hands. He Before the twentieth century all Friends of the President have a was given to a man in Virginia who Presidents owned some horses. Horses problem: what gift does one present raised bird dogs. I learned later that served as transportation, both for the to the daughter of a President of the he was quite happy in his new home. saddle, and to draw a coach or car­ United States? The safest is a pet. President Eisenhower was quite riage. One fine day when I came home from fond of dogs and always had one or Dogs were the White House staple school, I found that Bob Hannigan, two about, even while he was Euro­ as far as pets were concerned. the Postmaster General, had present­ pean wartime chief. Then he had a Through the years, kennels have been ed me with an Irish setter puppy. I black Scotty named Spunky who scattered in a number of places on named him Mike—what else can you strongly resembled President Roose­ the White House grounds. Sometimes name an Irish setter puppy given velt's Fala. He gave this dog to his special buildings were hastily erected you by a man named Hannigan? son John. One of his favorites, given to house them. On occasion a spare Mike was our only pet—Dad could to him while he was President, was

* +

Library of Congress Photos President Benjamin Harrison with goat he kept for his grandchildren From White House Pets. Copyright © 1969 by David McKay Company. Reprinted by permission. a brownish Weimaraner named Heidi. the case of one President, either he ligent bird he had seen. From all Weimaraners are an interesting breed, or a kitten had to go. The feline wa.j reports the bird was truly a rare one, originally bred in Germany some 700 called Tom Kitten, the President— gifted with political savvy that would years ago as hunting dogs. JFK. There are several stories about have done credit to a veteran vote- The President was quite taken with cats such as Slippers and the diplo­ getter. When a group of women, this one, so much so that he insisted mats, Tom Quartz and his feud with young or old, middle-aged or better, on feeding her himself. Mostly Heidi a dog, and the Lincolns' kittens. would pass his cage, he would cock remained at Gettysburg, the Eisen­ Numerous Presidents and their his head and screech, "Oh, look at all hower's residence near Washington. First Ladies were fond of keeping the pretty girls!" She didn't enjoy Washington with all canaries, parrots, mockingbirds, and It must be remembered that Wash­ the hubbub of noise, and people al­ other species. Thomas Jefferson's ington, D.C., was for a very long ways in her way. mockingbird was his constant com­ time simply a large cluster of houses Richard Nixon's Checkers, the lov­ panion. President Grover Cleveland's and streets in a rural setting. Since able, floppy-eared cocker spaniel, who wife also had a mockingbird, as well the Chief Executives were familiar was a cause celebre in the 1952 elec­ as several canaries. But unlike Mr. with farm life, it was quite normal to tion, has since been replaced by a Jefferson, Mr. Cleveland found the keep cows somewhere in the vicinity. stunning six-month-old Irish setter birds annoying on occasion, especially President Rutherford B. Hayes was named King Timahoe presented to the mockingbird. One evening when quite proud of his pedigreed Jersey Nixon by his staff. The new dog's he was up late working, the mocking­ cows. He also kept chickens, and so bloodline is impeccable: his forebears bird's antics kept interrupting his did Theodore Roosevelt and others. are champions. concentration. He had the bird moved. President William Howard Taft was Daughter Julie has a cuddlesome Sudden silence and the fact that the the last President to keep a cow. poodle named Vicky, and her sister bird might have been placed in a Pauline, a handsome Holstein, had as Tricia owns a cute Yorkshire terrier draft worried him even more. Mr. her pasture the grassy area behind she calls Pasha. The latter dog joined Pendel, his aide, spent part of the the State, War and Navy Building. the Nixon household because both night moving the bird from place to Goats also came into their share of girls seem to know the secret of get­ place trying to find a compromise popularity. President Benjamin Har­ ting around their father. When Tricia area where the mockingbird wouldn't rison, remembering his own goat cart asked for Pasha, she had fallen in catch cold, and where its warbling rides of the past provided a similar love with the little Yorkshire at first could not be heard by the President. rig for his grandchildren, just as his sight. Mrs. Nixon had her doubts, A friend sent a talking parrot to grandfather President William Henry but the President promptly said yes President McKinley. It was described Harrison had done for him. to her plea, which only proves that as a "Mexican double-yellow-headed Many White House pets defy all Richard Nixon is the typical father parrot" and reportedly was worth categories, but they provided good where daughters are concerned. several thousand dollars. The Presi­ news copy in their day. One was a Kittens and cats have sometimes dent thought highly of this parrot, horned toad, another a green snake, enlivened the White House scene. In remarking that it was the most intel­ a third was a kangaroo rat.

Kermit Roosevelt with terrier Jack Hoover with King Tut Mrs. Coolidge with raccoon By JACK LEWIS Editor, Horse & Rider

George Ford Morris was a man who undoubtedly wanted very badly to go down in history with the greatest artists; he may even have expected it, since he went to great lengths as late as the 1950s to have published a book with the rather unlikely title: "Portraitures Of Horses, A Few People, Some Dogs & Other Animals, With Autobiographical Comment and Narrative by George Ford Morris. " One does not have to delve too deeply into psychology to realize that Mr. Morris was one of two things: Either he was an egomaniac of the first order or he had a sly sense of humor and was hardly above poking fun at him­ self. Be this what is may, there is no doubt that Morris was one of the finest portrayers of animal life — with empha­ sis on horses — of all time. Although he died a dozen or so years ago, the volume which bears his name and was created through his Fordacre Studios in New Jersey under a private, and though not limited, printing offers a good deal of insight into the man and his work. To say that his professional career covered more than sixty-five years may sound as though the years are being stretched; but one must come to realize that he was draw­ ing horses — and drawing them well enough to sell some —at the age of 12. In later years, he was commissioned by all of the own­ ers of great race horses to paint their winners: these in­ cluded Man O'War, MacChesney and others, as well as the top horses of other breeds and pursuits. Morris seemed to have no favorites insofar as horses are con­ cerned, so long as they showed the beauty and conforma­ tion that he felt adequate as subjects for brush or pen. GEORGE f CRD MORRIS AMERICA EOREMOST HORSE PORTOifflST? At age 12 his drawings were good enough to sell In his earliest efforts, he did line lections, was, in his first job, the of­ try at one point. However, when Mor­ drawings that were to serve as poster fice boy in an agency for book and ris joined its staff in the 1880s, it al­ designs for horse shows and local magazines subscriptions. By his own ready was being replaced by more race meets. Some of background of admissions he "was not a brilliant suc­ modern publications. the man—perhaps even a note of cess at this job, as he spent too much Still in his early teens, the youth personal bitterness and frustration— time pencilling animals on odd bits was given the chore of making pen is reflected in his own account of his of paper." and ink illustrations on how to make early beginnings: His father found him another job, a baby crib out of an apple barrel, "The love of horses and a sensitive, this one in the art department of a how to build a kitchen chair from a impressionable mind, possessed by a lithograph company, where he divided dry goods box, while ort occasion, boy of 12; forced from school day­ his time between designing labels for there would be "the opportunity of dreams into a world of activity by cans of vegetables, sweeping out the doing an occasional portrait of a the invalidism of a debt-burdened offices and emptying that necessity of champion Poland China pig or a father, to be the main support of his the era, the cuspidor. prize-winning Cotswold ram." parents and six younger brothers and Again, Morris' talent and the needs This, however, served as background sisters; he was driven to do the thing of the job failed to mesh. As he puts for other steps—replacing more for­ he could do best for the most to be it, "When horses were found grazing mal training in art—and the next job obtained, to meet the dire necessities in the background of my tomato can he held was in the subscription de­ thrust upon him. designs, as well as elsewhere—attract­ partment of a horse periodical, where "There was no time for education ing more attention than the vege­ he exchanged labor for lessons from in art, or in any other line of endea­ tables in the foreground—the boss of the magazine's artist in drawing vor, and even his grammar school at­ the art department decided to let me horses. tendance had been interfered with go in search of other fields for my According to Morris' recollections, by his father's failing health and talents." the owner "offered me a job keeping fortunes, which prevented his gradua­ His next job was with the Orange- subscription books if I would take tion from the final grade." Judd Farmer, which was the leading lessons of his (then) well known Morris, according to his own recol­ agricultural publication in this coun­ horse artist, J. Campbell Cory. Ob- ject: ultimately to replace said artist at a much lower salary. (This was a *****md secret, however, between the prospec­ tive incumbent and his employer.) "The succession did not materialize, because the would-be student asked too many questions too fast and about the third lesson felt that he knew so much more than his instructor that he began to criticize the other's work." This, Morris recalls in his memoirs, 'I "led to an emphatic and somewhat profane ultimatum from Cory to the mutual employer that the offices were not big enough for the kid and him­ self and that the boss could take his choice between them." So Morris was relieved of his job. But that was a beginning and it was not long before he had developed other techniques of drawing and in­ vaded the offices of The Horseman, the leading horse periodical in Amer­ ica of that day. Frank Whitney, the paper's special ner's, also turning out posters for the bad photos sent in by advertisers to artist, had just departed for Paris to National Horse Show. Not satisfied, be used with their copy. study painting and the result was he formed several breed clubs, since "As I look back upon this working that Morris—only 16 years old—was he had become particularly enthralled from photographs, however, I realize given a contract at $25 per week. with the American saddlebred line. that it was an invaluable training in "I could see myself riding high, With partners, he even began a breed­ knowledge of form and draftsmanship wide and handsome, a great red horse ing farm and several of their colts of horses that no amount of art school over hill and dale—and all life's took top honors at the National Horse education could have rendered as obstacles, in fact—one hand in his Show in Madison Square Garden. effectively and advantageously," he mane and the other waving triumph­ But even in that time of success, contends. antly aloft to an onlooking world," Morris was not without his moments Yet, there was a backlash that was Morris reported later, perhaps a of self-doubt, an affliction experienced a whip to his ego. While in his fifties, touch of sly self-analysis creeping by most artists at one time or an­ he was studying at the Academy Ju- into his evaluation. During the same other. lien in Paris. It was here that fellow era, he did freelance work for The "Here was going to be my best ef­ students decided that his horses all American Trotter, Breeder and fort yet. As I worked, however— were drawn from photographs, "as Sportsman, The Western Horseman, perhaps too hard and maybe with the opinion was voiced that no one American Sportsman, and other types some pride in my powers—doubts could draw them so correctly other­ of livestock paintings for The Breed­ would begin to assail me. Was I, after wise." ers Gazette. all, much of an artist? Was this thing This led Morris to do some imagi­ By the time he was in his early near measuring up to the inspiration nary and mythological subjects show­ twenties, one horse magazine editor I had glimpsed when I started it?" ing horses in such extraordinary po­ had said, "The name of George Ford Often, Morris would take down the sitions that "I knew no one could ac­ Morris is known wherever a good partially finished canvas, store it in cuse them of having been done from horse lifts his head." a closet, then begin over again. photographs." But as is often the case, the ob­ "Months later, or sometimes a year, But all of this would seem to hark server soon finds himself among the I might come across my discouraged back to those early beginnings, when involved. It was not long before Mor­ effort. To my surprise and sometimes Morris was forced to use his abilities ris—headquartered then in Chicago— amazement, I would often find in it to feed his family. Out of this was no was spending most of his earnings in a character and convincing quality— doubt born a feeling of inadequacy riding, showing and breeding horses. as far as it had been carried—that that, in spite of his reputation, would It was during this period that he made it every bit as promising as its show through his armor from time to developed the Gentlemen's Derby As­ successor and sometimes more so." time. sociation in which horse owners of As he pointed out, shortly before society rode their own horses in vari­ During the years of such work, Mor­ his death, "Gradually has been borne ous events. ris perfected a technique that was in upon my consciousness the suspi­ frowned upon by artists of the period In 1907, Morris moved to New cion that I have been letting horses York City, where he did illustrations as being "unartistic," but today is an ride me instead of me riding them." for such well known publications of accepted practice. In the beginning, At any age, this can be a surprising the era as The Century and Scrib- he had to make drawings from often revelation.

10 Illustrations from Morris' "Portraitures of Horses." Estate of George Ford Morris repric ARE FUHHT AEOUTANIMAL5 Some episodes in the life of a veterinarian who appeared on an audience participation show.

By CHARLES LAURENCE LIPPINCOTT, D.V.M.

Over a period of several years I was fortunate enough joining control booth. If the question was of a general to appear on a radio show called "The Firing Line." It nature, original and not controversial, the caller was was an afternoon show, whose master of ceremonies was placed on a stand-by hold until Mr. Bracken was free to Mr. Dennis Bracken. The format of the show featured a speak. Some callers had to stand-by for up to an hour. guest personality who would discuss general topics with The popularity of this type of audience participation Mr. Bracken by way of stimulating audience telephone show was astounding. The telephone company and the participation. After our chat Mr. Bracken would open up radio station kept a meter that manually counted the the telephone exchange throughout the Los Angeles area. number of calls received during each show. The record The listeners were able to direct their questions directly number of calls received during a show that featured a to the guest or Mr. Bracken, and during the program's veterinarian was 1350. These calls represented males and hour we were able to answer 16 to 18 questions. females of all ages and from every walk of life. You are probably familiar with the procedure of such I feel that it might be fun to recall a few of the tele­ programs. Callers would dial the station's number. The phone calls that seemed to make it all worth while. Cer­ calls were answered and screened by a woman in an ad­ tainly, they represented a most interesting experience.

11 asked, "Where can I find a fertilized and hung up. A commercial had been green duck egg?" He said he wanted scheduled for that time, but Mr. Brac­ to sit on the egg and hatch it! As the ken cancelled it while we all paused hatched duckling emerged from the and regained our composure and what egg, the duckling would see the man was left of our hearts and voices be­ and "imprint" on him. Imprinting fore we again turned to answering means that the duckling would think calls. that the man was his mother and Another call that sticks in my me­ would follow him all over the house, mory came from a lady in Downey. quacking happily. Our first reaction We judged her to be middle-aged or to this call was to guffaw loudly. But older. She said that she lived alone stifling our laughs, we tried to give in a small home, and that her only the caller a serious answer. We di­ companion was an eight-month old rected him to the State Fish and female cat. She asked us to help her Game Commission, which just might with her serious problem, which she know of a fertilized green duck egg described as follows: "Every morning that was looking for a foster mother. and every afternoon my cat goes to One day a woman called from The program was service oriented, the door and meows, swishes her tail, Pasadena. She sounded upset and but even so many of the calls flabber­ and rubs her back against the door perplexed. She told me that her fam­ gasted us and probably our listeners and against my leg. She obviously ily wanted to raise some baby ducks. as well. wants to go outdoors. Her voice is She went on to say that they already On yet another day, emotion and high-pitched and crying. On the porch had two adult ducks at home, a drake sadness entered our studio via the there usually are three or four boy and a gander. The drake and the telephone line. A very young girl, gander would go out into a bamboo from whose voice we judged to be pile behind the house. The family about 6 or 7 years of age, called. felt that they were going into the In her childish voice she said, "Doc­ bamboo pile to lay eggs. She then tor, I've just come home from school. asked, "Doctor, what must I do to My mommy's not home, and my help my drake and gander have baby baby kitten is lying in the box very ducklings?" She was quite disturbed sick. She's not breathing very well, as I explained that she had a male there is yellow stuff in her nose and duck and a male goose, and that eyes, and she feels very warm to me. having baby ducklings from a combi­ What can I do?" Everything in the nation of this sort would be rather studio control room stopped, as we all 0 difficult. felt empathy and sympathy for this A woman from Toluca Lake called child and her sick pet. The symptoms one day and said that she had a sounded like terminal cat distemper, solution to the problem of dogs dig­ so I explained to her that her kitty ging holes in her back yard. She said had a very bad disease. I added that cats who seem to be encouraging her. that her dog used to dig holes that all her kitty may go to kitty heaven very Now, I'm sure, that my Fluffy just but ruined the plants and grass in soon, and that she must be a brave wants to go out and play in the park the back yard. Her solution: use the girl. I also told her that if the kitty with the other cats. But, can you tell garden hose and fill the freshly-dug did die and go to heaven it would me, please, why is she acting so holes with water. Then she said, "I be in good hands, since God loves all strangely all of a sudden?" kittens, sick or well. I had no sooner take my dog and stick his head Mr. Bracken had his hand over his finished speaking when the child said, under water until he blows bubbles. mouth, fighting back his hysteria. He "Doctor, my kitty is not breathing Then I pull him out of the water slipped me a scribbled note that read, any more. Thank you very much," and say, 'Don't you ever dig in this "You're on your own when you tell spot again!' " Mr. Bracken and I felt this woman that her cat is in heat!" that this sounded a bit harsh, so he With this type of question, one is said to the lady, "Madame, how many never sure whether the caller is a water-filled holes are there in your friend, a practical joker, or a relative back yard? "Oh," she answered, pulling your leg. This lady's voice, "there are water holes all over the however, rang of sincerity, so I be­ yard, but he never digs in the same gan the task of explaining the birds place after my treatment." and the bees to her. It went something As the woman hung up, Mr. Brack­ like this, "Ah, well, ah, . . . m'am en remarked, "Well, it's true that the . . . in the spring, you see . . . the dog didn't dig again in the same spot, birds and . . . ah . . . the bees . . . he just moved over a foot and dug a ah, well, they get together . . . and new hole." We both hoped that the dog was a spaniel or a water retriever At that point she shrieked into the of some type. telephone, "Oh, no, not my cat. I've Once a young gentleman called and never told her about THAT!"

12 Some facts to help you better understand your feline pet

By LEON F. WHITNEY, D.V.M. Author of "Training You to Train Your Cat" Search as one will through all the lights; they prefer shade or semi- produce milk until the kittens begin published studies of psychologists, darkness. to nurse; then the mother manufac­ one derives the distinct impression They get more pleasure from eat­ tures it during the nursing process. that cats have been studied less than ing and drinking than from any other (This is so with all species, even any other common species of animal. acts in life, so says a scientist after cattle.) We know vastly more about rats making two hundred experiments to Cats vary greatly in their abilities than we do about cats. Even raccoons test their reactions. to solve problems. There are some and monkeys have been studied far Unlike puppies, each kitten has its much "smarter" than others. In some more in proportion to their economic own teat on the mother's belly and studies, there were some cats almost importance. does not change from one to another. incapable of learning to do things But patient psychologists have de­ Many cats nurse their young until which other cats learned quickly. voted many years to giving us such and after full growth. It is not un­ Cats learn a little watching other information as the following: usual to see a grandma cat nursing cats learning, but their ability in this Cats are color blind. They can see her grown kitten which in turn is respect is very limited. only black and white shades, as we nursing her kittens. But Grandma re­ Sleeping cats probably dream, as see an ordinary photograph. They fuses to nurse her grandkittens. may be deduced by watching their can distinguish degrees of brightness From birth until three weeks of age, eyes, ears, vibrissae and leg muscles clearly, however. the mother cat initiates suckling by twitch. Cats can distinguish small forms the kittens. From three to six weeks You have heard of the cat's whisk­ and can differentiate between squares, of age either the mother or the kit­ ers. The real name is vibrissae. And triangles, and circles accurately. tens initiate suckling. After six weeks few persons understand what an im­ They do not like uncommonly bright it is up to the kittens. Cats do not portant organ of touch they are.

13 Everyone knows that a cat measures stinct of dogs by cats. Each gets cer­ cat to pull when it wants to come in? the size of an opening it can crawl tain enjoyment from the presence of In a crude way, cats can exhibit through by the vibrissae. And every­ the other. some foresight, and they have good one is wrong because most cats can Cats and dogs, though natural an­ memories. negotiate much smaller openings tagonists, develop mutual tolerance Cats can be taught to be highly than the whiskers measure. These for one another; even wild cats and competitive. They will race for a goal hairs are almost like radio antennae; dogs do so in time. Both are natural such as food. Who ever heard of a cat they receive impressions of objects predators, the cat for rodents and race? But it might be fun. Imagine ahead so clearly that blind cats can birds, the dog of the same and larger ten cats racing after a stuffed mouse get about without colliding provided species including the cat. But when around a fifty-yard track, like Grey­ the vibrissae are intact. But cut them they find they must tolerate one an­ hounds pursuing a stuffed rabbit! off and the cats are almost helpless. other through propinquity, they ad­ Cats under conditions of weightless­ Cats can stand considerable rain just nicely. ness are unable to right themselves, and some love to go out and get wet. Not only does a cat's pulse rate and thus float about in any position. Some cats do their best mousing on increase when it becomes emotionally A man can right himself by visual rainy nights. Do cats instinctively kill excited by a dog's barking; the red cues, but a cat cannot. and eat wild mice and rats? This in­ corpuscle count in the blood increases Cats can be made insane in much stinct has seemed to intrigue many markedly. the same ways as human beings can. psychologists, and there have been When one cat among a group be­ A neurotic cat exhibits its neurosis some excellent published observations. comes the dominant individual, there by chronic anxiety, which it mani­ You may have read that if kittens are is no fighting. But put the dominant fests by restlessness, trembling, raised with white rats, they will al­ cat in another group which has also crouching, and hiding: it is easily ways be kind to rats. This, however, sorted out itself in order of domin­ startled, and its pulse and respiration applies only to the rats with which ance and you will surely have a fight are disturbed. The latter are not they were raised. One explanation on your hands. In this respect, cats likely to be observed. Because a cat for it is that both come to smell more are reminiscent of groups of boys (or exhibits these actions does not neces­ or less alike, the rat acquiring some even adults). sarily mean it is neurotic, however; of the cat's odor. When kittens are Cats can localize the origin of a it may be frightened in a new envir­ raised to maturity in isolation, about sound far better than human beings. onment. The neurotic cat does not half will kill rats and mice without Not all white, blue-eyed, or pink- recover quickly from its neurosis as any learning. eyed cats are deaf, despite the com­ a frightened animal will. When cats are raised in a rat-kill­ monly held opinion. But some yellow- Neurotic cats do not want to be ing environment such as a barn, be­ eyed white cats are. Before any cat- handled. Hungry neurotics become fore the kittens are four months old, owner condemns a cat for being stu­ more refractive if one pushes them to most of them are killing rats or mice pid, he or she should be sure the cat the food container. Even making the of the kind they had seen their moth­ can hear. animal fast for longer intervals and ers kill, and some kill all kinds. Some students believe they have increasing the hunger drive does not Grown, hungry cats behave very detected extrasensory perception in help overcome neurosis. differently toward strange rats. They cats. Cats may be made alcoholic. Alco­ will eat baby rats and gray rats but Cats have three types of vocalizing: hol will disorganize newly learned re­ not white rats, if they were raised (1) murmurs or sounds made with sponses. Neurotic cats will often seek with white rats. However, they will closed mouths (purring): (2) basic alcoholic drinks which they have eat white rats which have been vowel sounds starting with the mouth learned will ameliorate their neuroses. shaved. open and gradually becoming closed: The ability of cats to discriminate If cats are non-killers and are kept (3) sounds made with the mouth held odors and tastes is probably similar with cats that are killers, the non- open in one position. Cats may seem to the order of human ability, which killers soon become killers just from to talk because the sounds vary in is probably just as well, especially for watching the others. intensity. They definitely can make those living in human civilizations. The more kittens are handled dur­ their wants known. Compared with dogs in these respects ing the first month of life, the more Cats are more repetitious than many cats hardly recognize odors that to precocious they are. Kittens left en­ other species. In escaping from puzzle dogs are powerful. tirely alone are less likely to be as boxes in laboratory studies, once a A catta (author's term for female satisfactory pets when they're grown. cat learns that by touching a certain cat) comes in heat several times Cats do not have territories as many lever it can escape, it constantly re­ a year. If she does not copulate, she other species have. Song birds have peats this movement, rather than at­ goes out of heat and shortly comes their territories and sing to tell other tempt to use other levers. The cat's in again and again. birds of their species to keep away. learning is the acquisition of new sig­ A dog with rabies will make its Dogs have their territories which they nals for action by associating signal condition evident, by its actions, espe­ protect when able to do so. Cats, on and act. cially its boldness, but a rabid cat will the other hand, roam everywhere. Cats love to pull strings, even shoe­ usually go off and hide. It will at­ Cats and dogs seem to supplement laces and yarn, which can be used as tack other animals at times. It may each other's wants in neighborhoods. the basis of ingenious experiments bite cows in barns or may hide The flight instinct of cats is stimu­ and tricks. Why don't cat-owners ar­ under a sofa and attack the ankle lated by dogs, and the chasing in­ range doorbells with strings for the of a person who sits on it.

14 From Dr. Whitney's book. Copyright © 1969, Doubleday & Co. Reprinted by permission. sents an estimated investment of $5,000 by the time he arrives for duty in Vietnam. Medical care for canines parallels that of the soldiers he protects. He is treated for skin problems; heatstrokes, cut feet (paws), and when he grows old, kidney problems and occasionally heart attacks. In Vietnam, care for an Army war dog is provided by three important individuals: the veterinarian, the vet­ erinary technicians, and the dog's handler. Their concern for these dogs A ttention they receive compares with that begins as soon as a new dog disem­ barks from the plane at Bien Hoa accorded our fighting men Air Base, the main port of entry. There he is met by a member of a local veterinary detachment. He is SUPERB HEALTH CARE FOR removed from his metal cage and

immediately subjected to similar in- By JIM WEBER (SSG) processing procedures experienced by soldier replacements. He receives an entry physical ex­ Jungle warfare is a struggle in many ever-threatening booby traps. amination and his medical records which the slightest advantage for one With this greatly increased use of are checked to determine the need side or the other often means victory dogs, research and techniques in the for any additional vaccinations. From or defeat. To help tip these scales field of veterinary medicine has pro­ the airport the dog is transported to in their favor, U.S. forces fighting in portionally expanded to meet the the United States Army Vietnam Dog Vietnam employ war dogs to assist in challenge of maintaining the health Training Detachment at Bien Hoa essential scouting and sentry duties. of these valuable animals. There are where he finds a temporary home in In this way, man's best friend has many good reasons for taking good one of the 104 kennels. become an extension of the soldier's care of the dogs. One is financial con­ This is where he is first introduced natural senses. sideration. A healthy German shep­ to his new handler who will train with To provide trained dogs for these herd or Labrador retriever costs up­ him for two weeks to determine if important duties, extensive programs wards of $150. It takes roughly six the two can function as a team. The have been devised to educate dogs as months to train him while he consumes dog soon learns that he has just been sentries, scouts, trackers, and now enough food to get the 5,000 calories introduced to a most important man even to sniff out tunnels and those a day he requires. Each dog repre- who will insure his care. As famili-

15 Here (top) a war dog receives a complete physical at the Army's 936th Veterinary Detachment at Long Binh. Below, a War dog undergoes surgery to repair a broken leg

K

U. S. Army photos by PFC John Pore 16 arity grows, knowledge of the dog's toon's dispensary, a constant surveil­ Cam Ranh Bay have the same cap­ peculiarities, characteristics and capa­ lance of the dog's medical history abilities and equipment for animals bilities enables the handler to view his can be made. "Shot" records are that regular hospitals have for hu­ dog's performance with a critical eye. kept up to date and a laboratory mans. They have emergency treat­ Thus, initial medical service for a check sheet for each animal assures ment areas, x-ray capabilities, labo­ war dog is that care provided by his each dog of getting the all-important ratories, pharmacies and operating handler — grooming, daily checking medical attention he needs. The dog's rooms. Complementing these facilities of the dog's ears, teeth and paws, and weight is checked twice a month; eye are a well equipped kennel and exer­ general hygiene. Of equal importance tests are performed monthly; temper­ cise area where recuperating patients is the handler's ability to spot trouble. atures are taken daily; and constant get their daily work-out prior to re­ Perhaps his dog is not displaying (his screenings keep tab on the dog's white turning to the field. normal alertness; he may be working blood cell count. In addition, fecal Among the more common opera­ at a slower pace; or he may be seek­ screens and Knotts tests are conduct­ tions performed in the animal hospi­ ing shade more frequently. All of ed to determine the dog's worm tal are those to pin broken bone3, these clues tell the handler that the count. repair fractured jaws, treat fragment dog needs attention. Supervising the veterinary techni­ wounds, and replace or cap teeth. On What if the dog and his handler cian in the Army's program of pre- one occasion last year a cornea trans­ are out working in the jungle and the plant was performed on a sentry dog animal begins to lose his effective­ with cataracts. The dog has since re­ ness? The handler will take these turned to duty. steps depending on the circumstances. General medical and surgical dis­ If the dog is showing signs of heat­ orders provide still another major stroke for example, the handler will category of problems. A characteristic stop the operation to inform the team of the German shepherd is his ten­ leader that a rest period is necessary. dency to develop fatty tumors under When tactical operations prevent 1> the skin. When detected, these tumors this, both dog and handler are pulled must be removed surgically, a proce­ to the rear of the element and con­ dure which removes the dog from tinue at the dog's pace. In the event duty for several days. More import­ the dog is disabled, either by a com­ ant are diseases such as leukemia, bat inflicted wound or by one of the hepatitis, and the various kidney many disablers in the field such as problems that plague older dogs. thorns, snakebites or leeches, the These are treated with drugs, anti­ handler will immediately apply first biotics or even blood transfusions as aid. When a dog is injured to such a the case dictates. degree that he must be removed from Perhaps the most significant medi­ the field, he is "dusted off," or medi­ cal problem affecting war dogs in cally evacuated by helicopter just like Vietnam is IHS, or idiopathic hem- a soldier. Depending on the serious­ morhagic syndrome, a bleeding dis­ ness of the injury the dog will either order that has killed a number of be evacuated to a main animal hos­ dogs in recent months. Field samples pital or to the platoon's veterinary i are currently being gathered from dispensary, where second echelon 01 both affected and non-affected dogs medical care is performed. ventive care is the veterinarian. He provides emergency and routine care in Vietnam and sent to the Army's Assigned to every infantry scout dog on an area basis, usually supervising Walter Reed Hospital. One clue has platoon in Vietnam is a veterinary the medical operation of two or three arisen from the mass of research so technician. He is to the animal what scout or tracker dog platoons in his far is that the disease appears to be a medic is to the foot soldier and the area. Operating in much the same tick borne. Army medical personnel dispensary in which he works is much manner as a country doctor, the continue research to find a cure to the same as an out-patient clinic for veterinarian makes weekly, and in this deadly disease. soldiers. Whether the animal is some cases, daily visits to his dog Time, training and money—these brought from the field to the platoon's platoon dispensaries. And it is not at are the ingredients that prepare a rear area because of a minor injury all uncommon for a veterinarian to war dog for his job. Expert medical or because of normal work rotation be called from bed in the middle of care—from preventive medicine to (the dogs generally spend no more the night to perform emergency sur­ complicated surgery; from the low­ than three or four days in the field at gery on a wounded animal. est level of medical attention to the One time), the veterinary technician In a situation where extensive sur­ highest—this is what keeps these dogs is there to perform minor treatment, gery and prolonged treatment is on the job. Is it worth it? Any hand­ applying ointments and dressings, deemed necessary, the field veteri­ ler will tell you that when a scout dog and performing the many preventive narian and his platoon dispensary is doing his job saves even one human medicine-type functions that keep the replaced by the highest level of medi­ life, he has more than fulfilled his dogs healthy and working. Since the cal care—the animal hospital. The mission in Vietnam and earned the animal's medical records are kept by 936th Veterinary Detachment oper­ highest respect from his two-legged the veterinary technician at the pla­ ated at Long Binh and the 176th at soldier counterpart.

17 Everything—and more—foreseen by Rachel Carson in her SILENT SPRING is coming to pass

»• - • •

P By BETTY LE ROY

Photos from Los Angeles County Air Pollution Control District

£*£

View of Los Angeles on a clear day. Only lately have the alarmed cries saster are waging the fight without Graham is an unabashed admirer of ecologists and biologists reached the voice of one of their first and and defender of Rachel Carson, and sufficient volume to be heard by the finest leaders, Rachel Carson, whose lashes out with little mercy at her press, a few concerned citizens and book Silent Spring eight years ago critics in industrial and scientific cir­ a number of politicians. These scien­ carried warnings of the predicament cles. The book, he says, was attacked tists are telling those who will listen mankind is facing today. on much the same grounds that, a that mankind, in fact, does have a Silent Spring, published in 1962, century before, Louis Agassiz had subtle, almost invisible, power to de­ predicted this peculiarly modern cri­ challenged Darwin's Origin of the stroy all life on earth. sis, and along with its biological warn­ Species: 'A scientific mistake, untrue Some say it is already too late to ing was the insistence that techno­ in its facts, unscientific in its method, stop the collapse of the ecosystem. logical man could prevent a catas­ and mischievous in its tendencies'." Others predict that within a genera­ trophe if he would but pause and That Silent Spring was able to sur­ tion, unless immediate action is taken, take stock of his works and contami­ vive and become an American classic all living things, with the possible ex­ nation of the environment. and oft-quoted ecological reference, ception of man and a few other hardy Her message was taken seriously Graham feels, is because of the skill and highly adaptable forms of life, and heeded by a few fellow scientists, of the prominent scientists and con­ will have vanished. but for the most part it met with servationists who spoke out in its One scientist in fatalistic terms de­ ridicule, protest and harsh criticism. favor. scribes a controversy in the circles of Controversy continued for Rachel Graham relates the gallant efforts conservationists, ecologists and biolo­ Carson until her death in 1964, but of the book's and lady's defenders, gists as being between the optimists even as the arguments against her but he reserves special enthusiasm for who predict that by the year 2000 claims raged on, these small numbers an assault of high venom on Miss trees and other plant and animal life of concerned scientists and citizens Carson's fellow scientists who joined will be only memories, and the pessi­ took up her banner in increasing the battle against her by either de­ mists who say there will be no living numbers, particularly when evidence fending industry or by judging her thing able to exist on earth in 30 that she was right started accumu­ work as unscientific, a hoax or the years. lating with frightening frequency. emotional rantings of a faddist. What will bring about this ecologi­ One such standard bearer is Frank This latter accusation particularly cal doom? More and more blame is Graham, Jr., conservation author and disturbed her, according to Graham, being laid to man's increasing de­ a field director of Audubon maga­ because she had as a scientist always pendence on and use of chemicals, zine. In his recently published Since questioned the pseudo-scientific ap­ the resultant pollutions, and espe­ Silent Spring, he describes the con­ proach made by food faddist, health cially to the widespread, indiscrimi­ troversy brought on by Silent Spring, quacks and other cultists. "Inevitably, nate use of chlorinated hydrocarbon the effects on the quiet woman who she was made uncomfortable by those insecticides, like DDT. wrote it, and what has taken place semi-mystical groups which detect a But these prophets of ecological di­ since its publication. murderous intent behind any use of

Smog engulfs central Los Angeles. Smog represents only one source of pollution, and Los Angeles conditions are no worse than other places. 21 modern chemicals," Graham wrote. Her final words on this were, "I incidence that she was proven right? He quotes James Westman, Chair­ contend . . . that we have allowed She was that rare combination of man of the Department of Wildlife these chemicals to be used with little poet and scientist. She had the gentle Conservation at Rutgers University, or no advance investigation of their soul of a nature-poet, and the keen, as comparing the danger of DDT to effect on soil, water, wildlife and man, inquiring, methodical mind of a scien­ that of alcohol, and dismissing them himself. Future generations are un­ tist. She had that special ability of both by saying, ". . . since we have likely to condone our lack of prudent quiet people to make loud, bustling become familiar with their properties, concern for the integrity of the nat­ people uncomfortable. we have had no fear of using them to ural world that supports all life." Although admittedly a slow writer suit our needs and purposes." To this In Since Silent Spring, Graham who enjoyed the pursuit of research Westman added "Amen". This sort of points out that the spark of interest far more than the drudgery of turn­ comment, says Graham, makes Ra­ and concern set off by Rachel Carson ing out a manuscript, her joy of all chel Carson look very good today. led to second thoughts about the use nature was such that she was com­ Rachel Carson allowed most attacks of man-made chemicals and subse­ pelled to convey her findings and to pass over her head. One incident, quent investigations into the dangers thoughts to others. however, upset her because the criti­ to life. The flow of funds and the Her other books include Under the cism came from a scientist she re­ pace of research toward alternate Sea Wind, published in 1941, The spected. A. W. A. Brown, a zoologist controls were speeded by her book. Sea Around Us, published in 1951 at the University of Western Ontario, But, today one needs to read the and The Edge of the Sea, in 1955. said "individuals concerned with wild­ daily newspaper or view an occasion­ Each effort received considerable life work, having a vested interest in al television program to realize that critical acclaim and made her a lit­ opposing pesticides and pressured her the warnings put forth by Rachel erary celebrity. into taking an extreme position." This Carson were right. We need but visit Born in Pennsylvania, she entered was profitable for Miss Carson, he the seashore to see for ourselves that the Pennsylvania State College for suggested, but hard "on some 'compe­ the California brown pelican has all Women intending to become a writer, tent public servants' who had to pay but disappeared and the tide pools but finished as a biology major. Fol­ for it all." are ominously empty of living forms. lowing receipt of a master's degree in Other scientists, including many The destruction of both has been biology from the Marine Biological doctors, nutritionists and conserva­ traced directly to the pesticides Ra­ Laboratory in Massachusetts, she be­ tionists, refuted statements she had chel Carson talked about. came a teacher until the Depression never made, Graham writes. He Graham titled his final chapter A forced her to give up this career for points out what any thorough read­ Light at the End of the Road. In this a position with the U.S. Bureau of ing of Silent Spring reveals, that what section he describes some of the ac­ Fisheries, now part of the Fish and Miss Carson was questioning were complishments made in research and Wildlife Service. She continued work the overall methods used in the war the legislation enacted banning or as a biologist until demands of her against insect-borne diseases, she did partially prohibiting the use of these writing and family responsibilities not rule out the use of pesticides in toxic chemicals. The reader, however, made it more practical to devote her all cases. gets the feeling that Graham's, and full time to her studies and books. Graham reviews the concluding perhaps mankind's only light at the The undertaking of her final book chapters of Silent Spring wherein she end of the road is the fact that Ra­ Silent Spring was prompted by a let­ calls for extensive research into the chel Carson has been vindicated. Per­ ter from a friend living in Massachu­ longterm effects of the chemicals on haps, correctly, this is the reason for setts. The friend described the shock­ all forms of life, including man. She his book. But neither his or other ing occurrence of planes spraying the wrote that to restrict this massive in­ reviews of this dilemma offer much marshes, ponds and fields of the area fusion of chemicals into the environ­ reason for hope or joy when indi­ in which she lived as part of a mos­ ment will require the development viduals contemplate the future. quito control program. The planes and application of alternate methods Rachel Carson's Silent Spring was repeatedly crisscrossed the area, of pest control. She called for more intended to shock man into action. It dousing everything in their paths. selective use of pest controls and is apparent eight years later this Miss Carson was horrified by the weed killers, and was especially in­ was not enough. Daily reports about incident, but was equally appalled by terested in biological controls such as the existence of cancer in commer­ the justifications offered by both in­ artificially introduced insect diseases, cially consumed fish and evidence of dustry and the government for the predators and sterilizers. DDT in mother's milk seem to get unrestricted use of these chemicals. Graham says again and again that little but passing attention. Perhaps She became convinced that man what Miss Carson advocated was not mankind and his environment must die was, more and more, approaching the the complete abandonment of chemi­ on a large scale before action is taken. earth not with humility but with ar­ cal pesticides, but rather directed But, by then, will it be too late for rogance. She began assembling evi­ her attack at the long-lasting chlori­ anything or the heeding of any words dence of the havoc of man and pre­ nated hydrocarbon insecticides whose movement through the environment but the ghost of Rachel Carson say­ paring for the undertaking that ulti­ cannot be contained and whose resi­ ing "I told you so"? mately made her a controversial, yet dues, being fat soluble, are stored in Who was Rachel Carson? Was she important contributor to and defender animal tissues and recycled through qualified to make such pronounce­ of the earth, the sea and animal life food chains. ments and judgments? Was it a co­ she knew and loved. During the past 35 years, para­ Parakeets still the most also good for him to peck. And he'll keets, those magical "little people" enjoy pecking at a millet spray. that talk, whistle and perform acro­ popular of cage birds Ask your pet supply dealer about batics have fascinated millions of the different seeds, treats and condi­ Americans. m tioners available for parakeets. Although the boom, which peaked J Special paper should be placed on in the 1950's, has leveled off, shell the cage floor and sprinkled with parakeets or budgerigars (budgies IAIXIM;grave l for parakeets. The paper should for short) are still the most popular be changed and cage cleaned several cage birds. times a week. Perches should be They were originally brought from scraped. If washed they should be Australia, where, in their wild state, thoroughly dried before being put they're green with yellow heads and back in cage as damp perches can black barred wings. But through se­ cause rheumatism. lective breeding all the beautiful Once a month both bird and cage shades and combinations of blues, should be sprayed for mites. (Avoid yellows, greens and solid white have mwmsprayin g eyes.) been developed. One very popular By ELOISE KEELER To tame and train your bird, move shade right now is turquoise. very slowly and quietly around him. At the height of their popularity Never frighten him. While feeding there were an estimated 30 million and caring for him, talk to him softly. pet parakeets in American homes. And as he gets to know you, after One book on their care sold five mil­ about a week, put your hand in the lion copies. cage. Keep doing this for several days Owners, with the enthusiasm of until he gets used to your hand. Then young mothers talking baby formulas, place your index finger under his feet. discussed their bird's diet, vitamins Soon he should step on your finger and conditioners and bragged about or on a perch you hold out to him. their amusing antics and the new After a few days you may be able to words they'd mastered. take him out of the cage . . . but be One bird I heard about could re­ sure all doors and windows are closed. cite the entire "Lord's Prayer". An­ When you get him to stay on your other was house-broken — he used finger without flying away, it's time ashtrays. A lost parakeet was quickly to teach him to talk. returned to his owner when he said Decide what you want him to say very distinctly to the people who . . . "Pretty bird" ... or "I can talk," captured him, "My name is Peter. I ('Can you fly?" or "Birds are for eco- live at 1218 Crestview Drive". The cage should be hung or placed y!" Parakeets can learn difficult as As many parakeets die at two or on a stand fairly high up and away well as simple phrases — if you re­ three years of age, some owners think from heaters and windows as too peat each phrase over and over, very they're short lived. But actually, if much heat, cold, draughts, dampness slowly and distinctly and in rather a properly cared for, they may live up and direct sunlight can be lethal. loud voice. And don't start on a new to 20 years. And as some birds never Your bird should be given fresh phrase until your bird has mastered learn to talk or do tricks, some own­ water and fed daily. Many birds the first. Some say it's easier for wo­ ers get discouraged and lose interest. starve to death from owners mistak­ men than for men to teach them, as But this may be due to a wrong start, ing husks in their cup for seeds. They women's voices are higher. wrong bird or lack of know-how and need a good parakeet mix with millet, Practice for as long as you can hold patience. oats and canary seed and treat food your bird's interest without tiring Here's what the experts advise: containing proper seeds, vitamins and him — about 10 to 15 minutes three If you just want something alive conditioners. When you first get your times a day. The owner who described and attractive around, get two para­ bird put some seeds on cage floor as this technique taught her bird to re­ keets — they'll keep each other com­ he may not find them immediately in peat some 80 phrases, many of them pany but they'll never talk. But if the food cup. complicated such as "the nearest you want an intelligent, talkative and As your bird grows older some galaxy of stars is 100 million light entertaining little companion, buy greens should be added to his diet years away." only one. such as romaine lettuce, celery, car­ The more time and attention you From a reliable dealer select a rot and beet tops (but not head let­ give your bird, the more interesting healthy bird in your favorite color, tuce or parsley). and responsive he'll become. 6, 7, or 8 weeks old, preferably a male He'll also need some form of min­ Formerly, if a parakeet became ill —the best talkers. Provide him with a eral grit to keep his beak from be­ the best owners could do was to con­ roomy wire cage with perches, food coming overgrown. For this cuttle sult a book or the pet dealer who and water cups with hoods so drop­ bone should be placed inside the cage sold them the bird. But now on in­ pings won't get in them, and remov­ near the perch. A hard boiled egg creasing number of veterinarians are able tray on bottom for easy cleaning. shell without any egg left on it is treating birds.

23 Actress June Lockhart, "the cat lady of Brentwood Alley," at His "home away from home" the beach with one of her pets Packing dog's travel needs.

Photo by N. W. Ayer & Son

w Willllk. 111***11 Photo ra by author Photo by Virginia Kay Secure perch and seed and water cups in bird's traveling quarters. It's vacation time and an automo­ bile journey is planned. Should your pet go with you or should he be boarded while you are away? If the pet is prone to chronic car- sickness or if for other reasons it does not seem feasible to include him, try to place him with an animal hospital boarding pets or with someone who will function in conjunction with a veterinarian. This offers an opportu­ nity for the pet to have a physical check-up if need be, and other special attentions. Dr. Ray Swart, small animal clini­ cian at the Kansas State college of veterinary medjeine, has prepared a checklist for pet owners who wish to make the trip for their pets as safe and comfortable as possible. We parti­ cularly like these thoughts: The pet By ELEANOR PRICE should have a general physical exami­ nation before the trip, and should re­ ceive any necessary immunizations at least two weeks before the trip be­ gins. Tranquilizers can overcome ner­ vousness in the pet, and may also ease the problem of motion sickness. If trouble develops on the road, play it safe and see a veterinarian. He'll be able to handle small problems quickly, and can cope with the major problems before they get out of hand. With advance preparation, it is pos­ sible for almost any healthy pet to travel in a car. Children in the family will be delighted and will worry less than if their pet is left behind. Also, children will more easily make friends well covered with aluminum foil and pet has ample warm nesting material in campgrounds or wherever, as a pet then with cloth securely pinned and a cover over his carton and gives youngsters a conversational around it will provide some warmth. carrier. wedge. Be certain it is not hot to the touch GUINEA PIG Examination of a car and contents and that the pet isn't the type to A Guinea pig (Cavy) needs same may be made at various places. So nibble through coverings. As long as care as a hamster, except he drinks before leaving home, have a veteri­ there is some air to breathe, most pets can be left overnight in covered from a flat-bottomed dish (bird bath narian write a note stating the pet will do). He does not climb, so strips is yours (to prove you didn't pick it carriers inside the car. The bathroom of a motel can also be considered of woolen cloth at night will help up illegally along the way), listing keep him warm. identification marks, and certifying the pet is, to the best of his knowl­ DOG RABBIT edge, in good health and recently has In some cases, it is best that a dog A mature rabbit is quite hardy. had any needed vaccinations. In some not be fed a meal just before em­ Carry him in a nonchewable cage in­ instances, you may need a collector's barking. A few white crackers with side a carton. Include a water bottle permit from your state Fish and his evening meal may lessen chances with a plug and nipple. Shredded Game Commission, or a license from of his having diarrhea in the car paper serves as nest box lining. He the Police Department to own the pet. next day. may appreciate wool strips hanging Don't attempt to take a pet out of A dog can usually ride on a car from his pen when nights are cold, the country unless you are thoroughly seat. Tie his leash to a fastened seat- also a blanket over most of his aware of regulations covering re-entry belt so the pet can't suddenly jump quarters. of pets. around nor fly forward on quick stops. Although he won't walk as eagerly Don't let him hang his head out the If possible, the pet should wear an as a dog, a rabbit can wear a figure- window. You may prefer to keep him identification tag with a veterinarian's eight harness and a leash, and be ex­ in a wire crate with bedding and toys. address or that of a friend to whom ercised. If air is hot, spray him now and the pet could be sent if he became BIRD then with water. lost from his traveling owner. A bird clings quite easily to a steady Every pet needs his own secure Exercise the dog on leash whenever perch, but remove any swing in his quarters. (It is very unnerving when possible. Examine the area first to be cage. Lower the cage into a snug car­ a pet such as a lizard slithers out of certain there are no burrs and pieces ton. If he's a paper shredder, insu­ sight in a car. It is worse when a of broken glass. Offer drinks of water, late with fiberboard if there is space. turtle gets under the pedals!) Avoid but don't let him tank up. A talking bird will pick up new a carrier with solid metal sides, as it If your destination is a campground, sounds on a trip and delight you for holds heat. Don't transport rocks in­ secure the dog to his ground swivel days to come. side the carrier with the pet. In many and chain (not a leash he can chew) Be certain to keep him out of drafts instances, the carrier can be fitted during the day unless you are walk­ and cover him against cold at night. into a snug cardboard carton to pro­ ing him on acceptable paths. He can sleep on warm bedding in his crate DUCK tect the pet from drafts and help in­ A grown duck can travel, but not a sulate him from cold. Be absolutely at night, or with you. Don't let him run free to annoy other campers or baby one. Provide dry bedding and a certain the carton used has not pre­ constant supply of water. If the duck viously been disinfected for roaches. to tangle with a possible bear, skunk, or rattlesnake. is "imprinted" with a family member, Even faint fumes may kill a pet. he can be taken out in a safe area Usually a few layers of newspaper CAT and walked around. can be slid between carrier and car­ A cat carrier with a handle is the He will enjoy playing in mud or ton for extra protection. cat's best traveling friend. He should damp earth. Take along the pet's food (at least be accustomed to it before a trip. Place MONKEY some of it), large thermos of water, it up high enough so he can see out when riding, and cover it somewhat A monkey is sensitive to drops in bedding, extra blanket or two, large temperature, so try to arrange not to pieces of cloth, toys, and needed swi­ when he looks sleepy. Disposable lit­ ter trays and litter are conveniences. take him on a trip. If you do, train vel ground screw and chain, an extra him to a leash, also permit him to leash and collar if the pet wears them, When he is not in his carrier, he should wear a figure-eight harness cling to your arm at times for secu­ roll of paper towels, roll of aluminum rity. Keep clothes on him, or at least foil, newspapers, and, if possible, an and leash, and be controlled by a capable person. wrap a piece of blanket around his ice chest. For some pets, you may stomach. Treat as you would a hu­ Never turn him loose in a strange need strips of woolen cloth twice the man baby. height of the carrier. Sew them so area. You may never see him again, there are no ravelings. These often identifications notwithstanding. FISH come in handy to drape over wires Needs of an exotic cat are some­ Goldfish can stay home several days of the carrier lid (pinned securely) what similar. The exotic is more in a bathtub full of water. Provide to provide extra warmth at night easily upset over confusion, and he greenery for them to nibble. If pos­ from lid to floor. draws confusion along with the at­ sible, have a friend come in to give If you have no car air conditioning tention of strangers. He also may other food. If you do travel with them, and the weather gets hot, hopefully catch cold easily. Do your best to keep water temperature even. you can purchase enroute a plastic keep him warm and comfortable. Tropicals are sometimes moved, bag of ice cubes. Wrap it in a layer HAMSTER with the help of an attachment con­ of aluminum foil, then with cloth. Fiberboard is better insulation be­ nected to an auto cigarette lighter. Place it in a corner of the carrier. tween the carrier of a hamster and As for taking them on trips where Sufficient coolness should come the carton than is newspaper. A ham­ temperatures fluctuate, you are court­ through to keep the pet comfortable. ster can work newspaper into the ing disaster. Don't chill a pet with air condi­ cage and cover the water tube's spout. IF DEATH COMES tioning. And never leave him in a Blanket the carton, except for an air If a small pet owned by children car parked in sun. Park in shade and hole, if car air conditioner is working. dies in a campground, its demise will roll windows down a short way. (Re­ If daytime temperature is overly be easier on youngsters if you permit member, shade moves.) warm at a camp area, work up earth them to have a little funeral to which At stopovers or your destination, in shade and wet it down. Place the other campers' children are asked to do not heat a car, cabin, tent, or pen on the wet spot. Wring out cloths come. Don't toss the dead creature camper with charcoal, as this organic in cold water and drape over the cage. into the woods with the suggestion matter uses up oxygen. A heated rock Should nights be cold, be sure the children just forget it. creature on which to bestow a little of his affection. Virtually all of us making a career The of conservation, display, or control of The wildlife began our careers (and our undying love for animals) with a pet case squirrel, toad, snake, crow or praying case mantis. This urge to make a pet of a wild creature is as natural as growing up. I've always felt, as a naturalist for and veterinarian, that my responsi­ against bility was not to discourage this nor­ By Frederic L. Frye, D.V.M. and mal urge, but to direct it toward the By Donald R. Collins, D.V.M. Jean-Paul E. Cucuel, D.V.M. development of love and respect for For the past three years, we have our natural wilderness and its in­ Both the American Veterinary Me­ rendered veterinary medical and sur­ habitants. dical Association and the American gical services for the owners of exotic Humane Association are on record as Neither books nor second-hand pets in our area. Colleagues have opposing the keeping of wild or exotic knowledge can substitute for the thrill been very cooperative in referring pets. They argue that most persons a youngster experiences on the morn­ such cases to us. Our general policy who keep wild animals keep them ing an old mama fox he has followed has been to accept anything that only as status symbols, don't have the for 10 days leads him to her den and walks, crawls, flies, or swims. emotional stability to cope with such he gets the first glimpse of what he While much can be said in support pets, and are totally ignorant of the knows is going to be his new fox of Dr. Collins' thesis that the small physical needs of animals from the puppy. Nor can books describe the wild rodent, reptile, or amphibian pet wild. experience of seeing a gill-breathing perhaps led many of us to our pro­ pollywog make that miraculous While the example most often used fession, we feel this circumstance in change into a tiger salamander that is that of the insensitive lady who no way justifies the present drain on breathes air and snaps worms from has everything and buys a cheetah or such endangered species as the chee­ one's fingers like a miniature bulldog. ocelot as a prestige pet, a more typi­ tah, ocelot, and margay—to mention Who will deny that such experiences cal example is the youngster who only a few. To meet the pet market's increase our appreciation of our nat­ picks up a fledgling bird or baby present demand for these exotic spe­ squirrel and doesn't know how to ural heritage and our awareness of the importance of conserving every cies, females with cubs are usually care for it. The kid isn't trying to im­ shot and their litters taken from the press anyone—all he wants is to sat­ little bit of wilderness we have left? den. The resultant mortality to the isfy his curiosity and own a living Continued, top of page 28 Continued at bottom of page 28

26 Photos courtesy Los Angeles Zoo •

Capuchin -monKey ati-Mu'ndi • I t • . * H Ocelot k Raccoon HP? • i*^*

Vf*¥lfr

^

S "', pet. By careful study, the owner not possible to tame an animal unless the The only learns what to feed his pet but, owner gains its confidence. The wild in the process, begins to appreciate pet should be attended at least once a where that animal fits into nature's day to remind it that it has nothing scheme. After the types of food re­ to fear and to reassure it that no case quired are known, a survey must be harm will come to it at the hands of made of the sources of such food, as its owner. If the pet is amenable to essential food for some wild pets may handling, it should be handled daily. for be available only during certain Many keepers of wild animals are months of the year. If an adequate not aware of the wild captive's need The youngster who raises a fox supply of proper food cannot be pro­ for occupational activity. The captive squirrel or orphan fawn is not likely dded at all times, the animal should animal is denied the many activities to grow to be the man who carelessly not be kept in captivity. associated with finding food, escaping drops a lighted match in the forest. A study of the animal's own selec­ from enemies (to avoid becoming Owning a wild animal pet can be tion of housing in the wild will help food), finding shelter or water. These an educational experience that cre­ determine what its requirements are activities must be replaced by ap­ ates a sense of responsibility, kind­ in captivity. The owner's capability propriate exercise or recreation. ness and consideration which is often of meeting these requirements will greater than that gained from owning Medical attention is a most im­ determine whether the animal should a dog or cat. Most important of all, portant element of care. With 18 or­ be kept as a pet. even a child can successfully make ders in the class of Mammalia alone, a pet of a wild animal. This is not to Taming an animal does not mean it is unlikely that any veterinarian say that success in keeping a wild pet turning it into a docile, subservient could, on demand, offer complete me­ can be achieved simply by acquiring, beast without a mind of its own or a dical care for all species. However, a caging and taming the animal. Any threat left in it. Many Brahman bulls practitioner's obligation is to acquaint pet must be cared for constantly. It are considered tame, but their own­ himself with at least one colleague requires regular feeding, watering, ers don't caress a bull's ears or kiss who is competent in the field. If the cleaning, environmental control, and it on the muzzle. The taming of a practitioner is in a large city, he pro­ proper medical care. wild animal is the operation of con­ bably can refer these patients to some­ The process of successfully making ditioning it to accept the changes one in the same city. If, however, he a pet of a wild animal begins with a which have taken place in its new lives in a small town, he may wish to quest for information about proper environment. familiarize himself with routine im­ food and housing for that pet, a step The cardinal rule in taming any munization schedules and emergency which should be completed before wild creature is patience—both with procedures necessary for the com­ any attempt is made to obtain the one's self and the animal. It is im- monly seen wild animal pets.

Exotic cats and monkeys have com­ the inquiring prospective owner of an prised the bulk of wild species treat­ exotic pet from taking on an animal The he or she is ill prepared to care for ed in our practice. Many of their owners, in an attempt to make an properly. case already unsatisfactory pet less trau­ After the novelty wears off and no matic to live with, have resorted to one wants to cope with attempting such elective procedures as defanging the safe handling of an adult exotic and castration in both monkeys and pet, the animal finds its way to a against cats, and to onychectomy in cats. It zoo or animal shelter. Thus, many is true that castration and onychecto­ public zoos have become depositories breeding population is exceeded only my are performed routinely in do­ of unwanted exotic cats, monkeys, by the subsequent morbidity and mor­ mestic cats, but for different reasons: raccoons, badgers, opossums, boa con­ tality of the young. It has been esti­ i.e., to prevent damage to furniture strictors and many other wild spe­ mated that approximately 80% of and to minimize some of the unpleas­ cies too numerous to mention. How­ these cubs die before they ever reach ant secondary sex manifestations in ever, with sophisticated management their ultimate destination. Most of intact tomcats. and quarantine policies presently in the survivors succumb before the end force in most zoos, most of these ani­ of their first year in captivity as a As practitioners who have a genu­ mals are not particularly welcome. result of improper husbandry and ine interest in exotic pet practice, we Euthanasia is all too often the sad disease. Much the same dismal pic­ feel that to serve the best interests of end to this situation. ture can be painted of the pet-mon­ our profession and clients, and cer­ We fully realize that, because of key market. tainly our patients, we must report There is nothing redeeming about human nature, the unusual pet ani­ in the veterinary literature, technics, such wanton waste of natural re­ mal will always be with us to some sources just to satisfy the whims of case reports, and pertinent data in extent, but we make a strong plea for persons who cannot find satisfaction relation to these animals. But we feel sober restraint in advising the hus­ in domestic species. we must also try a priori to dissuade bandry of wild species as pets.

Adapted from Veterinary Medicine/Small Animal Clinician by special permission. nary Medical Association. Its editor and the peak of around 21.4 million said he's frequently asked whether in 1915 when the nation was still carnivorous animals—which includes geared to horsepower on farms and dogs—don't have meat in their nat­ city streets. ural diet. His answer: Worm parasites alone, said T. W. "Such persons either do not know Edminster, of the Agricultural Re­ or else choose to overlook that even search Service, cost horse owners an wild carnivores do not subsist on estimated $112 million annually. In muscle meat alone. They consume not all, he stated, losses from infectious ANIMAL only some skeletal and glandular tis­ diseases and parasites run more than sue but viscera likely to contain $400 million a year. HEALTH vegetable matter. Zoo veterinarians Edminister said other research learned the hard way that muscle needs include improving reproduction NEWS meat alone is not a balanced diet for performance, care and feeding of captive wild carnivores. horses and management. "Without question, dogs like meat, The American Horse Council esti­ but palatability alone shouldn't gov­ mates that the country's horse indus­ ern the formulation of rations for try totals more than $7 billion a year. any species. Children like candy, Its figures also indicate that an av­ too." erage horse owner spends $735 a year an animal on feed, equipment, tack and drugs alone, or more than $5.5 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECT ON billion annually. CAT COLORS IS NOTED AGES OF ANIMALS IN The urban environment is causing RELATION TO MAN a significant genetic adjustment in U.S. CURBS SALES OF A dog's age is popularly supposed cats, Neil B. Todd, Ph.D., of the A WEED KILLER to be one-seventh that of man, so that Carnivore Genetics Research Center, The Federal Government has taken a dog seven years old is equivalent in Newtonville, Miss., said in a paper steps to halt the use of the controver­ age to a man of 49 years. David P. presented before the American Asso­ sial herbicide 2,4,5-T as a weed killer Willoughby, Honorary Associate in ciation for Laboratory Animal Sci­ around homes and ordered suspen­ Vertebrate Paleontology at the Los ence. sion of its use as a defoliant in Viet­ Angeles Museum of Natural History, "Cat populations of cities tend to nam, where reported cases of birth does not go along with this thinking, be composed of more individuals with defects and miscarriages in villages and in an article in Natural His­ darker coat colors and patterns, while were attributed to the use of defoli­ tory he gives his own "prediction for­ in rural populations lighter colors ants. mulas" of relative ages to man of the and patterns predominate," he stated. The actions followed new informa­ horse, dog and cat which take into "Furthermore, as urban pressure in­ tion reported to the Department of consideration such factors as average creases and accumulates, so does the Health, Education and Welfare indi­ age at maturity, average age at frequency of the genetic factors caus­ cating that "2,4,5-T, as well as its con- death, and reported maximum age. ing dark coat colors." tominant dioxins, may produce abnor­ His specific conversion formulas: New York has the largest propor­ mal development in unborn animals." Dog's age =.333 man's age —5.5; tion of dark cats. Less urban cities, The orders immediately halted in­ cat's age =.385 man's age —7.0; and such as Boston, and relatively terstate movement of the liquid form horse's age =.406 man's age —3.5. younger cities, such as Chicago, show of the herbicide. The non-liquid Using these formulas for elderly intermediate frequencies of dark ani­ forms not considered imminently members of each species, he finds mals. Cities which were essentially harmful will remain on sale until that a dog of 28 years, a cat of 32 rural until recently, such as Colum­ hearings and possible appeals are years, a horse of 38 years is equiva­ bus, and purely rural areas, exempli­ completed. None of the actions af­ lent in age to a man of 102 years. fied by southern Missouri, have a fects the use of 2,4,5-T for control of very low frequency of dark animals. weed and brush on the range, pasture, forest, rights of way and other non- DOGS NEED MORE THAN agricultural land. MEAT, SAYS A.V.M.A. COMEBACK OF HORSE BRINGS The most recent study showed that RESEARCH CALL Although no owner of a dog would even pure 2,4,5-T—which has never consider an all-meat diet suitable for The U.S. Agriculture Department been commercially produced—was as himself, an increasing number of dogs has told Congress that it is time to liable to cause birth deformities as are being fed by their owners just renew research on horses to help those dioxins normally found in it. Dr. such a diet. Why? Because so many owners with growing equine problems Jacqueline Verrett had testified be­ owners have been led to believe that caused by a remarkable return to fore a Senate sub-committee that the meat alone is suitable for their dogs' saddles and spurs. dioxin contaminates found in this and diet. Today there are an estimated 7.5 other herbicides "were more potent So says an editorial appearing in million horses in the country, com­ than thalidomide" in their ability to the Journal of the American Veteri­ pared with a low 5.5 million in 1950 cause birth defects. BRITAIN HALTS ENTRY OF CATS, legs suggest that it lived on the outer DOGS AS RABIES THREAT surface of a sparsely haired animal, unlike today's fleas that burrow Britain has banned the importation through their hosts' fur. The long of all cats and dogs as an anti-rabies feelers on the head support this view. measure. The Ministry of Agriculture Modern fleas have much shorter feel­ also extended to a year the quaran­ ers, which do not impede burrowing tine on dogs and cats now waiting in through thick fur. aproved kennels for admission to the If the Koonwarra flea did not bur­ country. The quarantine period had row, its host's fur must have been been raised recently to eight months short or sparse so that the flea could from the previous six-month quaran­ reach the skin to feed, scientists be­ tine. lieve. The system worked fine until last fall when the first case of rabies was reported in more than 50 years. This CHEMICAL APPROVED AS resulted in the shooting of hundreds BIRTH CONTROL FOR PIGEONS of animals and birds in the area DOCTOR'S Pigeons are a public health problem where the rabid dog had roamed. The and carry germs to pets and people tougher measures stem from the more in many American cities. recent discovery of a second dog that The Food and Drug Administra­ came into the country from Paki­ tion recently approved use of a chem­ stan. This animal died of rabies ical, 2-ortho, 25-diazocholesterol di- three months after the six-month hydrochloride, as an antifertility quarantine. Readers with health and other agent for use against pigeons. Dr. Because of the restrictions long in pet problems are invited to send Stephen L. Beckwith at the Univer­ effect in the country, Britons have their questions to ANIMAL CAV sity of Florida in Gainesville reports ALCADE. Those with the greatest been reluctant to take their pets with he has developed bait in the form of reader interest will be handled on them on vacations abroad because of this page. The material below has kernels of corn covered with the the need to place them in long quar­ been adapted from "Progress in chemical. The substance works with antine on return. Veterinary Medicine" by permis­ birds other than pigeons, but the sion of American Veterinary Pub­ size of the corn kernels generally lications, Inc. CHIMPANZEE WENDY REACHES would prevent smaller birds from eat­ 46TH BIRTHDAY ing it, Dr. Beckwith thinks. "There Summer Itch Treatment is evidently no effect on mammals, at After a long career of contribution Q: Please outline an up-to-date regi­ least rodents," he adds. to medical knowledge Wendy, the old­ men for treatment of summer itch est known captive chimpanzee, goes in dogs? —S., Michigan right on providing information on LEUKEMIA TRANSMISSION BY long life and geriatric conditions. She CATS UNPROVEN A: The diagnosis of "summer itch" belongs to a lusty species whose life­ must be made on the basis of a com­ span ordinarily is about 35 years, Reports that pet cats may trans­ plete physical examination, including Wendy has reached the age of 46 in mit leukemia-causing viruses to hu­ a search for external parasites. Skin good health. She shows her years mans have caused undue alarm tests may identify causative allergens only by moving somewhat more slow­ among the nation's cat owners, Dr. for which specific therapy including ly and by taking life more calmly Charles G. Rickard of the New York desensitization can be given. The im­ than the younger apes. Wendy, who State Veterinary College at Cornell mediate aim of the treatment is to lives in the animal colony of the Yer- University said in a statement re­ stop the itching. The therapy for this kes Primate Research Center of Em­ leased in Ithaca. should include at least one bath with a medicated shampoo, which must be ory University, Atlanta, has 5 grand­ In his statement, Dr. Rickard said thoroughly rinsed from the dog with children and 3 great-grand children that "it would be unwise to blame a flowing stream of water. Then anti­ in the present Yerkes collection. cats for human cases of leukemia on the basis of present knowledge." inflammatory medication, such as Dr. Rickard, a professor of patholo­ prednisolone, prednisolone - aspirin OLDEST FLEA FOSSIL FOUND gy, continued: combinations, or antihi s t a m i n e s, IN AUSTRALIA "Research on cat leukemia and on should be initiated. While itching is A 120-million-year-old fossil of a certain other tumors have revealed being brought under control, desensi­ tization may be attempted by repeated flea has been unearthed at Koon- that they are caused by specific vi­ injections of a histamine-protein pre­ warra in the Australian state of Vic­ ruses. Some of these cat viruses have paration. For animals which are help­ toria. been transmitted experimentally to ed by these injections, it should be The flea fossil, 80 million years dogs, rabbits and monkeys. They also recommended that another series be older than flea fossils found in other grow in human cells in test tubes. given during the following spring be­ parts of the world, was excellently But there is no evidence at present fore itching occurs. —Waldo F. Kel­ preserved in siltstone. that cat lekemia viruses infect hu­ ler, D.V.M. The Koonwarra flea's long thin mans or cause leukemia in humans." Estrous Cycle Of Cat beak should induce shock, if handling thetic nervous system.—Robert L. Q: What is the estrous cycle of a cat? is carried out correctly. During re­ Stansbury, DVM straint it is important not to squeeze How many days between seasons Coprophagy in the Dog and for what period does each sea­ the bird; the only part of the ana­ Q: Is there any compound which son last? —P., Utah tomy which may be firmly gripped is the head on either side of the mandi­ when fed to a dog will impart a A: There is a tremendous variety in bular articulations. In addition to in­ bitter enough taste to the feces to the estrous pattern of cats but in gen­ correct handling, shock may also re­ curtail coprophagy? P., Missouri eral they are seasonally polyestrous. sult from excessive hemorrhage if the A: Oral administration of glutamic Cats living under natural conditions blood vessel in the midline of the acid in the form of capsules may be in temperate climates usually come mandible is cut. Silver nitrate cauteri­ effective in some cases of coprophagy into heat in mid- or late winter and zation is, however, usually an efficient to change the feces and make them again in late spring or early summer. hemostat.—/. F. Keymer, MRCVS unpalatable. One of the satisfactory Actual signs of heat are present for methods has been the application of several days and recur at variable in­ kerosene or 10% creolin solution to tervals till the cat conceives.—Jean Age For Castrating Cat the feces as soon as possible after Holzworth, DVM Q: How old should a male cat be be­ elimination. If the owner will persist fore castrating? Will castrating at in the procedure for several days it Burro-Stallion Breeding 4 or 5 months vs. 1 year be any may frustrate the dog enough to stop more apt to result in the forma­ the vice. It is also -well to have the Q: Will a burro female breed to a tion of urethral calculi?—D., Ore­ dog checked for atrophy of the pan­ male pony, as a mare bred to a gon creas; coprophagy is a characteristic jack? If so, what would you call of this disease.—Lloyd C. Moss, BS, A: A tomcat should be physically the offspring?—F., Virginia DVM mature before castrated unless pre­ A: A female burro (ass or donkey) serving some of the physical charac­ Unusual Sound in Horse will breed to a stallion. The offspring teristics of the kitten is desired. Pre­ is a hybrid differing from the mule Q: What could cause an audible ferably, the animal should be 6 thumping sound in the left flank in having a bushier tail, like a horse, months of age or older at the time of a horse following moderate ex­ a body disproportionately large in of castration. It is unlikely that there ercise? Respirations, heart sounds, comparison with the legs and a gent­ is a single cause for urethral obstruc­ and general physical condition ap­ ler disposition. The offspring is re­ tions by calculi in male cats. Because pear normal.—H., Missouri ferred to as a hinny. The gestation they generally occur at the same loca­ The condition referred to is some­ period of the burro carrying the hinny tion, however, it is likely that ana­ times called the "thumps." This is a is 8 to 12 days less than the usual tomical differences among tomcats do spasm of the diaphragm and it prob­ gestation period of about 365 days. influence—not the formation of cal­ —L. E. Boley, DVM culi, but their becoming lodged near ably is caused by irritation of the the ^nd of the urethra. It seems rea­ nerves that innervate the diaphragm, Thawed Canned Foods sonable to predict that when the or by direct irritation of the dia­ phragm itself. It almost invariably is Q: If canned dog food becomes frozen other factors which promote forma­ seen following moderate to heavy ex­ without breaking through the cans tion of calculi are present, an animal ercise, and produces no serious con­ and then is allowed to thaw will with a smaller than normal urethra sequences unless the spasm should it be safe to use?—S., Michigan will be more susceptible to obstruc­ tion.—E. J. Catcott, DVM, Ph.D. become so severe that a rupture of A: Since the contents of canned dog the diaphragm would occur. The anti­ food are commercially sterile, freezing spasmodic drugs seem to be of some and thawing would have no effect Effects of Catnip benefit in treating this condition.— whatsoever on their bacteriologic con­ Q: Cats appear to like catnip leaves R. Scott Jackson, DVM tent. This presupposes that the seams and blossoms. Is catnip a stimu­ Vaccinating Pregnant Bitch were not stretched enough to permit lant, a tonic, or both? H., Massa­ Q: Is there any evidence that vacci­ the access of air-borne contaminates. chusetts nation of pregnant bitches with There may be a slight effect on the A: Catnip (Nepeta cateria), which is modified live-virus vaccine (espe­ physical condition of the canned con­ of the mint family, has, over the cen­ cially rabies vaccine) is harmful to tents, since freezing tends to destroy turies been recognized as a narcotic­ the fetuses? Is it advisable to give the gelatin gel and also retrogrades like plant. The scent of the volatile such vaccines to a pregnant bitch? the starch.—H. M. Burgess oils causes rapturous delight and —S., Washington. overpowering emotions in the cat. Not A: Some strains of distemper virus Handling Budgerigars all cats will respond in the same man­ are less modified than others, and a Q: How to trim the beak of a budge­ ner and, occasionally, one sees a cat virulent distemper is capable of caus­ rigar without inducing shock? — that does not respond at all. The ap­ ing fetal deaths. For this reason it H., Ontario, Canada parent effect of the plant, and its was concluded at a recent symposium A: Provided the bird is a normal use as catnip tea in human medicine concerning distemper immunization healthy specimen, being neither de­ in some sections of the country for that vaccination of pregnant animals bilitated, excessively old or of an un­ the alleviation of toothache and colic, is not prudent, despite a lack of spe­ usually nervous temperament, there would suggest that it may be an alka­ cific evidence about effects on fetuses. is no reason why trimming of the loid that acts upon the parasympa­ —L. E. Carmichael, DVM, PhD. First Reaction "Please, teacher," he asked politely, Two puppies watched a group of "how about collieflower?"—Modern teenagers dancing. Qne turned to the Maturity other and said: "If we acted like that, they'd worrn us."—Edgar A. Moss in A Close Call Dog Lover's Digest A clergyman owned a horse who responded only to religious commands. A Matter of Choice When he wanted the horse to gallop, A man bought a canary from an he said, "Thank God", when he animal dealer. "You're sure this bird wanted the horse to stop, he said, can sing?" he asked. "Amen." "He's a grand singer." One morning as he started his ride The customer left. A week later with "Thank God", the horse sud­ he reappeared. denly went out of control and headed "Say! This confounded bird you straight for a cliff. The clergyman sold me is lame!" forgot the command for stop and ''Well, what do you want—a singer I blurted, "Whoa, slow down," which or a dancer?"—Sunshine Magazine of course wasn't successful. As the horse neared the cliff's edge, the min­ Signs of the Times ister finally remembered and uttered "Amen." The horse stopped just in In a Houston pet-shop featuring time. "Wow!" said the grateful clergy­ St. Bernard puppies, "Guaranteed man aloud. "That was a close one. double your dog in a month or your Thank God!"—Hyman Danzig in Ro- money back." tarian Magazine In the window of another pet shop, "Chock Full of Mutts." On a parakeet display, "Two can YOUR WEIGHT I cheep as lively as one." AND Sign advertising Dachshund pup­ "The kittens' uncle," his mother FORTUNE pies, for sale, "Get a long little dog­ replied diplomatically.—Matt Wein- gie."—Catholic Digest stock in Los Angeles Times

MARITAL RELATIONS Doggone Good Speaking of marital relations, a The teacher was explaining: "Quite cat named Toot had two kittens and a number of the plants and flowers a youngster of 4, seeing them for the have the prefix 'dog.' There's the dog- first time, asked if her neighborhood rose, dog-wood, and the dog-violet, for friend, a male named Theo, was the instance. Can any pupil name an­ lOOK 2-24-70 father. The answer was no. Theo is other?" "You weigh eighty-seven pounds. an "it." There was a silence, then a happy You are loyal and trustworthy. "Well, if Theo isn't the father," the look appeared on the face of a young­ You are extremely fond of horsemeat, boy pursued, "what is he?" ster in the back row. and you have an aversion to cats."

A TATTOOED AND REGISTERED PET IS A PROTECTED PET

Tattooing and registration under the Canine Bureau of Identification Program offers the best method for speedy recovery of lost or stolen pets. It also serves as positive proof of identity and ownership of the pet. The tattooing, WARNINGr registration and retrieval program developed by Canine RBCM9TEHED DOG IF FOUND. TELEGRAPH COLLECT Bureau of Identification has been officially approved by TATTOO NO. ON FLANK OR EAR TO: CANINE BUREAU OF IDENTIFICATION the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association N.V.C. 10004 and the Veterinary Medical Association of New York City.

Contact us for further details.

CANINE BUREAU OF IDENTIFICATION, INC. 17 BATTERY PLACE • NEW YORK, N.Y. 10004 TELEPHONE: (212) 269-1200 WESTERN UNION TELEX: 12-5139

32 GENEAAl FOOTS

Tiger is about to open a can of meaty dog food with his bare teeth. Tiger'II do anything to get at de­ Variety—complete chicken, liver and licious Gaines Prime—in the cellophane beef flavor dinners—all in one box. cans. Tiger loves canned dog food. So he Easy meaty Prime in the cellophane cans. loves Prime. It's just like regular canned. With vitamins, minerals, vegetables, meat by-products and real meat! Only we found a way to make Prime with just the right amount of moisture, so our tender meaty chunks can come in 'JSSffi easy cellophane cans. Same for Prime -