Special AC Paw Cats Looking for New Homes
(February)
There are lots of great pets in our area looking for homes. AC Paw asked that I highlight five very special kitties in need of new homes.
ORPHIE is a very sweet kitty who is up for adoption with his buddy Rusty. They are owner relinquished and both very sad due to the sudden changes in their lives so we are hoping to find them a new home soon. Orphie is a beautiful 9-1/2 year old gray tiger who is very loving. He is an older cat but still has many quality years left and lots of love to give someone who will give him a chance. He and Rusty have never been separated so we want to keep them together. You can see them both up at Petsmart. We hope someone will come in, spend some time with them, and give them a chance to prove what wonderful companions they can be.
RUSTY is Orphie's best buddy. He is a ten year old orange tiger. He is a bit more shy the Orphie so will need a home where someone will understand that he needs some time to adjust to his new surroundings. We want Rusty and Orphie to stay together as they would be very sad if they were separated. Rusty is a wonderful cat who needs to find his new loving home soon with his buddy Orphie.
JASMINE is our AC Paw Pet of the Week. We are looking for a very special person who might be willing to foster Jasmine with the possibility of adopting her also. She is owner relinquished and has been in a foster home. She has been in a home with other cats and she does not do well with other animals. We feel she would do best in a home as an only cat. We are hoping someone with no other animals would give Jasmine an opportunity to show that she can be a wonderful friend and companion. She is a very sweet cat who needs that special someone to come and give her a second chance at life which she so truly deserves. Jasmine is a very pretty gray cat who is front declawed. She is 4-1/2-5 years old. If you think you might want to foster Jasmine, or for more information about her please contact her foster mom Liz at 231-649-5970 or go to the website.
ROCKY is also a special kitty. He is a ten year old cat who had been abused since he was a kitten. He is in a foster home now where he is finally beginning to show some trust, but is still a bit unsure at times and can become unpredictable. He will need someone who is willing to give him the space he needs. If someone would like to foster him, with the possibility of adopting him, please contact his foster mom Liz at 231-649-5970 or www.acpaw.org
He is a beautiful tiger and white kitty who was declawed on all four paws before he came to AC Paw. He is a wonderful cat who needs someone that understands he came from a very abusive situation and that he needs time to feel safe and needs time to learn to love, something he had never had his whole life.
COCO is another very special kitties we are featuring this week. We are hoping as we are with Jasmine and Rocky, that someone would be willing to foster her in hopes that they may adopt her. She is a very loving and gentle cat who would does get along with other cats, but she would probably be best for her to be an only cat. She is a beautiful long haired tortie who is declawed on all four paws. She is 3-1/2 to 4 years old. Please open up your heart and give this very sweet cat a chance to show what a wonderful friend and companion she can be. For more information about CoCo please contact her foster mom Liz at 231-649-5970 or www.acpaw.org
Local Animal Hospital Serving the Community
(February)
Fundraisers and donations are critical for many organizations and programs to continue helping those in need, especially furry, four-legged friends. Northwood Animal Hospital in Grawn sees the need on a daily basis and is known for their non-traditional approach to fundraising.
This past year the hospital held a Parachuting for Paws fundraiser, participated in Bra’s for a Cause and numerous other private and public events.
“We participate in as many fundraisers and community events as we can and enjoy supporting community efforts that help people and animals,” states Dr. Jennifer Klabunde, DVM, CVCP of Northwood Animal Hospital (NAH).
Many individuals banded together to raise funds this summer for Cherryland Humane Society. To promote this and other local animal shelters, NAH went skydiving to raise funds and awareness. They encouraged people to donate to support the critical needs of Cherryland Humane Society. In September, 15 people traveled to Mt. Pleasant to take part in the event. All donations were collected and a total of over $2000 total was raised and 100% of the proceeds raised were divided between the Cherryland Humane Society and the Benzie County Animal Shelter.
“Our hospital strives to find creative ways to fundraise. Parachuting for Paws was a great way to get community members involved and excited about supporting our local shelters” states Dr. Klabunde.
This past year NAH has supported Bark in the Park with the H.A.N.D.D.S. organization, Ultimate Air Dogs at the Traverse City Cherry Festival, the NEADS Program (which raises money for companion animals for disabled veterans), Toys for Tots and many others.
“We look for opportunities to support the community and take part in as many community fundraisers and local events as possible. We look forward to creating and participating in new and inventive ways to fundraise in 2012!” states Dr. Klabunde.
Northwood Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinary hospital, dental and surgical center in Grawn, Michigan. She has owned and operated the hospital since 2007 and is committed to providing high-quality services with compassionate care.
To learn more about Dr. Klabunde or Northwood Animal Hospital, please visit their website here or find them on Facebook here. You can also call them at 231-276-6361.
Save Money and Extend the Life of Your Pet!
by guest contributor,
Susan Blake Davis, CCN
Pet Nutritionist of www.AskAriel.com
With the current economy, we are all looking for ways to save money. It is hard to make ends meet and cutting costs is a priority for everyone. However, short-term gains may result in long-term negative consequences for your pet. Take a look at our handy tips and see where you can save and where to invest for the long-term health of your pet.
Stop and think the next time you buy your pet’s food. Look at the label. What’s really in there? Is there corn, wheat gluten, brewer’s rice and other fillers? Are there names you can’t pronounce such as ethoxyquin? What are they doing in your pet’s food anyway?
Your pet’s food label should list fresh ingredients such as meat, fish, vegetables and healthy omega 3 fats. Invest in a high quality brand and you’ll find that instead of spending more on the high quality brand you’re actually SAVING money because you’ll end up using about ? the recommended amounts (it takes a lot more food to fill up a pet using food that is loaded with fillers) AND the long-term benefits to your pet are immeasurable. Please visit the Animal Protection Institute to learn more about pet food and how it is prepared.
Avoid purchasing those cleverly marketed, commercially prepared treats that make you think you are actually doing good for your pet. You know—the ones in pretty shapes and colors (e.g. orange carrot-shaped treats made to give you the impression you are giving your pet a carrot) or with dogs begging on the front of the package. Don’t be fooled either by those “all natural” economy packs (sold at the big warehouse stores). Many of these “all natural” jerky treats are manufactured with harsh chemicals and contaminants. Pets can get upset tummies and health problems from eating them. The "bargain" treat bag can actually end up costing you money because of the long-term health consequences on your pet.
Instead, use fresh ingredients right from your kitchen. There are lots of affordable, healthy options. For dogs, give them apple slices, baby carrots, a slice of potato, a piece of hardboiled egg or a piece of fresh, LEAN meat. Your cat would much prefer a piece of salmon or fish anyday over a treat that looks like fish made with corn flour, by-products and syrup.
Veterinary bills will most likely be the single largest expense for your pet. By far though, the highest veterinary bills arise from emergency, unplanned visits. You can actually keep your veterinary bills under control by planning ahead and making smart choices NOW! With a bad economy comes bad decisions that can have permanent effects on your pet’s quality of life and longevity. How many of us have thought about switching to a lower cost food, skipping on the vet exam or delaying much needed laboratory work for our pets??? DON’T! A penny saved today will not result in a pound tomorrow—just the opposite. There are plenty of other healthy ways you can save—e.g. drinking less coffee, bringing lunch to work, cutting back on alcohol, candy bars or cigarettes and still do your best for your pet.
Exercise! Exercise with your pet and you will see the dollars flow in over the years. Want to know one of the main reasons pets end up at the veterinary office with emergency, unplanned visits? Well, many of the them have diabetes, cancer, joint problems, liver problems—all have strong correlations with obesity and being overfed and underexercised. Obesity, lack of exercise is not just a matter of style or looks—it is a matter of good health. Take out a feather or laser toy for your cat--- go for a walk with your dog and everybody benefits! Not only will you save money on your veterinary bills but you will build a stronger bond with your pet and give them a happier, healthier life!
Five Treats That Can Make Your Pets Sick
by guest contributor,
Susan Blake Davis, CCN
Pet Nutritionist of www.AskAriel.com
(February)
A portion of the proceeds of Ask Ariel Your Pet Nutritionist are donated to Ariel Rescue, Inc., a 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to saving the lives of homeless dogs in impoverished areas in Southern California. They have saved over 1500 dogs that would have been euthanized.
We love our pets and want to spoil them. But be careful, as some treats can cause more harm than good. Not every pet will have a problem with the treats listed below but some might and it is better to be safe than sorry.
Peanut Butter--This is often a favorite method for administering pills to dogs. Peanut butter can be a huge allergen and should definitely be avoided if your dog has any type of allergy or skin problems such as ear infections, hot spots, or paw chewing/licking. Also, it is very high in fat and should not be used for any dogs with liver or pancreatitis conditions. Alternatives for administering pills are canned dog food, hummus or hypoallergenic Pill Pockets.
Tuna Water--Many pet owners add tuna water to their cat's food on a routine basis. This is usually because the cat isn't eating well due to health concerns such as kidney disease. Tuna water is high in phosphorous (bad for the kidneys) and contains mercury. This just isn't a good habit to get into. Safer alternatives are low sodium chicken or beef broth or an alternative canned cat food used as a "topper".
Commercial Hot Dogs--Hot dogs are highly processed, loaded with salt, chemicals and are high in fat. In addition, most contain nitrates which are a known carcinogen. A contributing factor to the high rate of cancer in pets is the reduced quality of foods we are feeding them. If you want to eat a hot dog, then take a look at Applegate Farms which is a lower fat, no-nitrate, no-antibiotic version. But for your pets, stick with a piece of homecooked meat over a hot dog
Fat From Meat e.g.Tablescraps--The fat from your meat should go into the garbage---not into your pet. Pancreatitis can occur from a simple incidence of cutting off fat from meat and giving it your pet. Pets thrive on lean meats, fish and poultry. Please give them the very best in these foods and don't give them fat from the table.
Cookie Dough and Other Baked Goods--Pets can get sick very quickly from too much sugar. Most baked goods not only contain sugar but also flour which can be problematic for allergic pets. Some contain raisins which are poisonous. Many pets get urinary tract infections especially from eating grains and high carbohydrates. Please avoid giving your pet grains and especially human baked goods that contain sugar
Healthy Treats For Your Pet
Feel free to give your pet healthy treats such as Wildside Salmon Treats. These tasty treats are great for cats and dogs and are made of just pure wild salmon. Venison jerky from holistic brands such as Natures Variety and Ziwi Peak are good options. A baby carrot, slice of apple, vegetables are all good choices as well as a small amount of baked or canned salmon or a lean meat. Please look at labels carefully---if you can't pronounce the ingredients--don't give it to your pet. Finally, be sure to avoid treats with food dyes that are made to look like fresh ingredients--e.g. orange-colored dog treats that are made to look like a fresh carrot.
Very Important Fundraiser Coming up for the Kalkaska Animal Shelter Dogs
(February)
There is always something going on in our area to help animals in need and they are all great and worthy causes. This one is extra special and I can't stress enough how much this is needed. The Northwoods Animal Coalition in Kalkaska is having a fundraiser on Sunday, February 26th from 4 to 8 pm called "Raise the Woof" Dinner and Dance Party. They are trying to raise funds to construct a roof over the outside kennels at the Kalkaska County Animal Shelter. This will provide shelter to the dogs who are otherwise standing in a cage, having to deal with snow and rain. As you can see from the photo below, the dogs are exposed to the elements when they are outside.
The event will be at Whitetails Steak & Ale in Kalkaska and you can find out more about it on my calendar page. If you can't make the fundraiser, you can still donate to this very important cause. If everyone reading this could round up your change, skip a coffee or a McDonalds breakfast this week and send them at least $5.00, we could make some real change for a lot of Kalkaska dogs.
Click here to print out the information to send them a check and be sure to note that the money should be used for kennel roofs.
The Emergency Dog Rescue Box (Helpful Items to Catch a Stray Dog)
(February)
Okay, so I know that most of you are not professional animal rescuers. But who hasn't come across a stray dog - and wasn't prepared to catch them? Based on some of my successful (and not so successful) dog rescues, I have come up with some tips and a list of items that you might want to keep in your car in case you run across a dog who has gotten lost.
1. FOOD: Be sure to find something super great that a dog would find hard to resist. Dog jerky treats work well, although I advise against buying the ones from China right now since there have been a lot or pet treat recalls. You can also get strong smelling human food, like tuna. Don't expect the dog to come up to you right away for the food. Throw some of the food towards the dog and coax him or her to come closer and closer to where you are standing.
2. VOICE AND BODY LANGUAGE (Yours): Talk calmly and slowly at all times when you are with the dog. Reassure them that you are friendly. Make sure that your hand is palm-up so that you don't appear threatening to them.
3. VOICE AND BODY LANGUAGE (Theirs): Are they barking or growling at you? Growling could mean trouble. Barking isn't as bad as growling but you still should take an overall look at the dog's body language to see how he or she is responding. Is the tail wagging? That's usually an indication of a friendly dog. If the tail is straight out from the body and fluffed up, that could mean they are aggressive or scared. Other indications of a fearful or aggressive dog include their ears being forward or back instead of opened normally or their tail being down and tucked between their legs. And please keep in mind, if the dog appears threatening at all, please call your local animal control officer for help. Please do not put yourself or any of your family members in danger.
4. LEASH/COLLAR: Probably the easiest thing to buy is one of those loop leashes so you don't have to worry about getting a collar on the dog. Here is a link to the kind of leash I'm referring to: click here.
5. PHONE NUMBERS: Put these numbers on your cell phone so that you are prepared - your local animal control, rescue groups, shelters and your county office (to look up a dog license number).
6. OTHER ITEMS: Heavy blanket (for dog to lay on in car), first aid kit, water bowl and water.
So, now what do you once you have the dog in your car?? If you can, the best thing would be to take it home with you because many of your local animal controls, rescue groups and shelters are overburdened. However, make sure you contact them all with a description of the dog because those are the kind of organizations where most people will be looking for their dog. You should also make a flyer with a photo of the dog and put it up in several place near the area where the dog was found. In addition, please place a found dog ad in your local newspaper and on Craigslist. Ask for the owner to bring a photo of their dog with them to show you that they are the owner.
If you take the dog home, you'll want to keep it in a separate area from the rest of your pets, for the safety and comfort of your own pets as well as your new guest. Make sure it receives plenty of water and food, as you don't know how long it has been on its own. If it's been a week or two and no one has claimed the animal, and you aren't able to keep it, please try to place it with a friend or relative first. If that doesn't work, try to find a new owner who you are comfortable with. Ask for a vet reference and don't just take the first call that you get. There are bad people who might want to sell your new friend to a research lab or to use them for dog fighting. Screen the adopters. Call your local no-kill animal shelter or a rescue group to see if they have room for your new friend. Sometimes they have waiting lists or you can foster the dog for them. They might even have someone who is waiting for the same breed of dog that you have found.
Good luck and happy rescuing.
Audit Probes Sheriff's Office Spending in Wexford County
(February)
On-going speculation regarding spending by the Wexford County Sheriff's Office was back on the table Monday night at the County Commission meeting.
Back in November, Wexford County Commissioners voted to do another audit on the Sheriff's Office, after an issue came up in 2010 regarding an alleged misuse of Animal Control funds.
The new forensic audit results were presented to the board Monday night, 7&4's Kate Fox was there and has the details.
Click here for more on the story.
The 2012 SAF-T Start-Up Manual is Now Available
Sheltering Animals & Families Together (SAF-T)™ was created by long-time Michigan resident and former Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Allie Phillips, to help domestic violence shelters recognize the families fleeing abuse may have pets. Research continues to demonstrate that pets can be caught in the cross fire of family violence, including being targets of abuse. When a family leaves an abusive home, it is critical that the pets be removed to keep them safe.
With over 2,500 family violence shelters in the U.S., only 4 shelters were housing pets in early 2008 and with the help of SAF-T, that number has grown to 65 shelters that allow pets on-site. When pets are with their families, they are less likely to be abused or surrendered to an animal shelter.
LACASA in Howell is the only known Michigan family violence shelter that allows pets on-site with their families. If you know of anyone who works for a family violence shelter, please share this information with them. Implementing SAF-T is not difficult or costly. Go to the SAF-T website and download the updated 2012 SAF-T Start-Up Manual today!
Local Dog Places in Top Five in Dog Breed with the AKC/Eukanuba National Championships
(February)
Marty Dagneau Bates plans to tune in with other dog lovers around the country when the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship airs Saturday, Feb. 4, on ABC TV. The Lake Ann breeder and her Glen of Imaal terrier, Tully, competed in the December invitation-only dog show considered to be one of the most prestigious in the world. The pair placed in the top five of the breed and won an award of excellence.
For more on the story, click here.
A Special Thanks from Cherryland Humane Society
(February)
(from their recent newsletter)
Last May, the CHS made a public plea for funds for continued operation. The response to that plea has truly been overwhelming, beyond that which could ever have been anticipated. Hundreds of individuals, groups, businesses and the media have come forward with help in so many needed and vital areas. That response has allowed the CHS to enjoy an accelerated realization of some of its goals and objectives that have been put forward in its new long range plan. It is tremendously gratifying to witness the results the compassion of so many who love pets. It is the animals who are benefitting.
The incredible amount of donations received has allowed the CHS to significantly exceed the goals that were originally set. There were also numerous fundraisers that were done and that continue in an effort to help the animals. Several of those doing fundraisers have offered to do them on an annual basis.
The addition of numerous volunteers has helped immensely. Donations of supplies and equipment have made an outstanding impact. Increased adoptions have made a tremendous difference.
The efforts of the media promoted the need for funds over several months. It has been that public awareness that has sustained the response for help.
The CHS expresses its heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has come forward to help at a most critical time.
Novartis Warns Of Wrong Tablets In Pet Medicine Clomicalm Bottles
(February)
It's been only a few days since the consumer health division of Swiss drug maker Novartis AG (NVS: News ) temporarily suspended operations at Lincoln, Nebraska, production facility and recalled certain over-the-counter drugs - Bufferin, Excedrin, Gas-X Prevention and NoDoz, due to mix-up of products. Now, the animal health division of Novartis has warned that a wrong tablet may be found in bottles of Clomicalm, which is prescribed to treat behavioral disorders in dogs. Click here for more info.
Help Daisy and ID Your Pet
(February)
Daisy is about eight years old and was rescued from a life where she spent her days and nights at the end of a chain. She also became a baby making machine, pushing out litters and litters of dogs - 2 to 3 litters a year with 7 to 12 puppies per litter based on her size.
Daisy is a sweet old girl with a long road ahead of her. When Daisy was first examined by a Veterinarian, they found some inflammation on one of her hips. The doctor recommended that she get her hip replaced. Daisy is healthy and this is the only thing holding her back.
Frisco & Joey's Mission are working tirelessly to give Daisy the life she deserves. Can you help her? Her surgery is estimated to be around $4,000 - $5,000.
They are offering something special to pet owners in Northern Michigan for the months of February and March. If you purchase a ticket - one for $1 or six for $5 - you can be entered to win a FREE microchip for your pet! These normally retail for around $35. 100% of the money raised will go towards the cost of Daisy's surgery.
Call them today at 231-645-0394 to be entered. Daisy thanks you and so will your pet!
Breed-Specific Rescue Groups Making a Difference
(March)
Everyone has their favorite dogs. Most rescue groups rescue whoever they have room for but others have passion about a specific breed, whether it's a Pug, a Basset Hound or a Greyhound. These breed-specific rescues are also of great assistance when another rescue group or a shelter gets a specific breed into their organization. Often these pets get transported into an breed rescue who knows more about the dog's disposition and care and is better equipped to foster them and adopt them out to appropriate homes. This also allows the original rescue group to save more lives by having more space available for other dogs.
One such organization who does specific breed rescue is GRACE (Greyhound Retirement Adoption Care and Education). They are a 501c3 non-profit dedicated to placing retired racing Greyhounds into loving homes and educate the public as to what loving and gentle pets they truly make.
They host Meet and Greets in local community pet supply stores to give families an opportunity to meet up close a retired racer and learn about this magnificent breed. Greyhounds like a few other breeds are often misunderstood and overlooked as companion pets. Many times when a family meets one of the available hounds they are surprised by their quiet and gentle personalities. They are well know as the 40 MPH Couch Potato for the simple reason that they are so laid back.
GRACE is a large Greyhound rescue with members in Ohio, Indiana and Michigan. Their membership and contributing volunteers host events all over the entire Michigan area including Canton, Sterling Hgts., Lansing, Lowell, Belleville, Okemos, and the far reaching parts of northern lower Michigan.
Featured below are some adoptable Greyhounds, telling their story in their own words:
Hello friends my name is Image. I am a retired racing Greyhound that has spent the past several years being a brood mom to precious little baby Greyhounds. Now that I'm retired I am looking for my very own "Forever Home". As you can see by my photo I'm a lovely lady, but my inner most beauty comes from my heart and soul. Are you thinking of adding a beautiful companion to your family? Please consider me and perhaps we could meet and chat about the possibilities. My foster mom says that I'm just about as perfect as they come. How about we meet over a Milkbone and get to know one another? Please call GRACE Greyhound Retirement Adoption Care and Education at 734-558-4218 or email me here. Hey, be sure to check out our website for more information about me and some of my buddies also looking for special families.
Hello there Greyhound friends the name is Fred. Did I hear that you were thinking of adding a companion to your family? Well my friend, you're in luck because I'm thinking about adding a family into my life. I'm a retired racing Greyhound that absolutely loves to play. I'm as handsome as they come and I'm a very happy go lucky guy. Do I sound like a guy that you would like to meet? Please call GRACE Greyhound Retirement Adoption Care and Education at 734- 558-4218 or email me here. See ya soon friend – Fred.
Michigan Animal Legislation Update
(March)
Great news! SB 356, 357, and 358, to increase penalties for animal fighting, passed out of the House Judiciary Committee on January267. SB 356 would add animal fighting to the list of crimes for which property may be seized and forfeited; SB 357 would designate a building, vehicle, boat, aircraft, or place used for animal fighting as a nuisance; and SB 358 would add animal fighting as a predicate offense of racketeering.
The package of bills is now headed to the House floor, and then hopefully on to the governor’s desk. Visit Mike Markarian’s blog at the Humane Society Legislative Fund for a great summary of the bills. And please ask your Representative to say YES to SB 356, 357, and 358 when they vote on the House floor.
Please continue to contact your state legislators about “Grant’s Bills,” SB 423 and SB 424, to end the use of gas chamber euthanasia by shelters and Class B dealers in our state. The package of bills, named after a dog who died in St. Joseph County’s gas chamber, still awaits a hearing in the Senate Agriculture Committee. For talking points and more information, please visit Michiganders for Shelter Pets.
The Puppy Protection Act—HB 5230 and HB 5231, introduced in December of 2011 by Rep. Vicki Barnett (D-Farmington Hills) and Rep. Wayne Schmidt (R-Traverse City)—is awaiting a hearing in the House Regulatory Reform Committee. This package of bills creates a large-scale commercial breeding kennel license and will enact annual inspections and standards of care and housing. And in January of 2012, Senators Steve Bieda (D-Warren) and Rick Jones (R-Grand Ledge) introduced Senate versions of the bills, SB 891 and SB 892. Thanks again Michigan Humane Society for their outstanding work in creating this legislation.
The HSUS and Puppy Mill Awareness invite our members, supporters, and other animal advocates to participate in the Humane Lobby Day in Lansing, and help make a tremendous difference for animals. This will be an exciting opportunity to meet directly with your elected officials and their staff about legislation that will significantly impact animals. There will be a briefing with tips for lobbying and an overview of pending animal legislation, which will prepare you to meet your elected officials and advocate for animals.
Legislators are most motivated when their constituents make time to meet with them face to face. By attending Lobby Day 2012, you can be instrumental in helping to end gas chamber euthanasia and pound seizure in Michigan shelters, regulate large-scale commercial dog breeding facilities, and more. RSVP today to lend your voice for animals and make a difference in Michigan!
Humane Lobby Day will take place on Tuesday, April 17, 2012 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in room 402/403 of the Michigan State Capitol building, located at W. Michigan Ave and S. Capitol Ave., Lansing, MI 48933. This event is free and open to all who support animal welfare advances, but you must RSVP so they know you’re coming and we can make appointments with your legislators.
Helping Homeless Pets, Four Paws at a Time
(March)
There can never be enough resources when it comes to helping homeless animals. Even with all of the animal control facilities, shelters, humane societies and rescue groups, there is still a need for individuals who are out there saving lives on their own. There are many people in our community who are silent angels, rescuing and caring for wildlife, pulling dogs from high kill shelters and putting them into rescue and people fostering dogs themselves and adopting them out using their own means. Click here for more.
Unique Pet Care Business Opens in Traverse City
(March)
Small Paws Pet Cottage, a one-of-a-kind luxury boarding suite located in East Bay Township, has opened for business offering private boarding for cats and small dogs.
Rented to only one family at a time, the cottage provides a safe, clean and comfortable place for pets to stay while
their owners are away for vacation or work-related travel.
The climate-controlled pet cottage has 200 square feet of space, is comfortably fumished for small pets, and includes a flat-screen TV and a radio/CD player for pets that are soothed by familiar sounds.
Feline guests enjoy lounging or exercising on a kitty climbing tree and a fully fenced yard is available to canine guests for supervised outdoor exercise and play time. Cottage guests are able to relax and play without exposure to loud noise, unfamiliar or larger animals or illnesses.
"While some pets adjust well in a kennel environment or when left at home alone, others need extra attention and care while their parents are away. As the on-site pet sitter, I can provide that kind of individual care," says Bonnie Cudney, owner of Small Paws Pet Cottage. "The cottage was created as an alternate choice for people who desire private accommodations for their pets."
The demand for quality pet care is at an all-time high as people travel for business or leisure.
Small Paws Pet Cottage offers a unique choice for pet parents who seek loving, private care for their small companions.
More information is available at the Small Paws Pet Cottage website here or by calling 231-995-5377. Visitors to the website can also view an on-line calendar to check for available dates.
SMALL PAWS PET COTTAGE
2188 Abbie Lane
Traverse City, MI 49696
Contact: Bonnie Cudney
231-995-5377
Email here
The Evolution of Couch Potatoes and Lap Lumps
by guest contributor, Georg Schluender
(March)
If you watched the Super Bowl you most likely saw the VW ad of the dog that couldn’t fit through the door to chase the car and went on to develop its own wellness program. Its purpose beyond selling the car seemed to say, “Hey media viewers we have a pet obesity epidemic!”
The facts are, “Over half the nation’s dogs and cats are now overweight making obesity the leading health threat of our pets. Largely preventable diseases such as arthritis and diabetes are being seen in record numbers costing pets their life and owners millions in medical bills. The reality most of these cases could be avoided simply by preventing weight gain and shedding excess pounds.” States Dr. Ernie Ward, author of Chow Hounds, and founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.
To put a human perspective on it a 12 pound Yorkie is equivalent to a 5’4”, 218 pound female. A man standing 5’9” weighing in at 217 pounds equates to a Labrador retriever being 25 pounds overweight! You can translate you and your pooches own weight equivalents here.
Dogs are truly like strange looking family cousins for they share more physiological and digestive similarities with humans than any domesticated mammals with the exception of primates. The hunter-gather relationship which dogs and humans have collaborated over the last 85,000 years has drastically changed in the last century. The conveniences of fast food allow us to move less and spend that time watching an average of 28 hours of TV a week. The decreasing need to harvest fruits and vegetables or hunt has caused less active lives and consequently less healthy dogs.
Prevention is the key word and accomplished with two simple strategies of a measuring cup and exercise. Of course mindful eating habits include also knowing exactly what you are putting in both you and your dog companion’s bodies. “Kibble Crack,” as Dr. Ward calls dog foods that have high concentrations of sugar, fat, and salt produce the reward chemical in the brain called dopamine. This has been scientifically proven to cause rats to engorge themselves and is the same thing happening to dogs and humans alike. The Veterinary Research Institute has developed a ‘Dog Food Calculator,’ which can help you estimate the proper serving size for your pet and can be found here. Simply put if you see fat or sugar listed in the first ten ingredients chances are the food is focused on palatability instead of nutrient enrichment and protein.
In the process of evolution dogs and humans have engineered themselves to be enduring of physical activity in order to roam long distances to hunt prey. Studies by the leading wolf expert, Dr. Mech, determined that packs of wolves travelled an average of 28 miles a day in search of food. We have taken this away from the domestic dog and the fact is science has proven there is no better preventive measure for disease than aerobic exercise. Not surprisingly the Dog Whispers prescription for successful behavioral treatment mandates exercise first and consistently.
You’ll of course want your veterinarians and physicians approval by having the following test performed: Complete physical examination and body condition scoring (BCS,) routine blood tests, CBC, Serum chemistries, total thyroid hormone (T4,) free T4 by equilibrium dialysis, complete urinalysis, blood pressure, resting respiratory rate, resting heart rate, thoracic circumference (chest,) abdominal circumference (waist,) ECG, X-rays, and other tests as determined by your pet’s condition.
Once you’ve done that you’re ready to start power walking your dog and recommend using a hands free leash system similar to the Cardio Canine or learning more about the sport of Canicross. We use the same amount of energy walking or running on a level surface as our dogs yet they burn 0.8 calories per pound at a pace of 3.7 to 4 mph while humans only 0.73 calories per pound per mile. For a 150 pound person that means about a 100 calories during a 20 minute walk.
So now that your done reading this article take the next step in creating a healthier life for you and your dog companion and take a walk!
Georg Schluender is an Animal Behavior College certified dog trainer that has been rescuing German Shepherds for 25 years and developer of DoggieTrek Fitness. A nature based wellness business for dogs & their human companions. For more information contact him here.
Loving Our Pets Through Heartache and Loss
(March)
It's been a hard month for some of my friends in the animal community. Many of them are dealing with sick pets and quite a few have lost their pets recently. Whether it's cancer, old age or an unexpected illness or injury, the loss is felt the same. It doesn't matter if they were able to spend 14 years with their special friend or 14 months. In the end, it was their best friend – their buddy. Losing a pet is very hard to go through but the rewards from sharing our lives with them make it all worthwhile. Click here for more.
Take a Bite out of Cancer at Grand Traverse County's Bark For Life Event this Spring
(March)
The Grand Traverse County Bark For Life Mini-Relay event is an irresistible way to partner with your canine best friend to “take a bite out of cancer”, smile, and make new friends – both canine & human. Bark For Life presents a unique opportunity to celebrate cancer survivorship, to honor those lost to cancer, and to fundraise in support of the American Cancer Society programs and services. Please see the calendar section for more info.
Traverse City Dog Park Update
(March)
Over 130 dog lovers and dog park enthusiasts came to Lil Bo Pub and Grille recently to celebrate Mardi Paws and help raise funds for the Traverse City Dog Park. The night was a great success and we raised over $1602.00 with proceeds from the door, the 50/50, and selling Mardi Paws cookies. Wait there is more! Nancy at Lil Bo said her 25% donation came to around $400, but she has offered to round it up to $500. That brings the proceeds for the night to $2102.00!
A big thank you to everyone who came out and celebrated Fat Tuesday Eve for a good cause. The support for the park has been phenomenal including support from our local businesses. Please give these Mardi Paws supporters a "like" on Facebook, a post on their website, or a good old fashioned thank you when you next visit their businesses. They are: Lil Bo Pub and Grille (sponsor of Mardi Paws and Silver Bone Donor), D.O.G. Bakery, Minerva's, Bubba's, State Street Grille, Happy Tails Doggie Daycare, Humane Train, LLC, State Theatre, Allure Salon, Fit for You, The Crown, Pooch 'n' Purrs, Grand Traverse Athletic Club, Great Lakes Pet Memorial and Lucky Jack's.
A huge thank you also goes out to a great group of volunteers. Without their work organizing the event and at the event, Mardi Paws would not have happened. Congratulations to Chris and Colleen Smith! Winners of the 50/50 split!
Click here for a pdf of the donation form that you can download.
If you are interested in helping out with fundraising, please email them here.
Kalkaska Dogs Soon to be Fashionable AND Comfortable
(March)
There have been some changes going on at the Kalkaska Animal Shelter lately. Volunteers within the community are working together to make life better for the cats and dogs at the shelter. One such volunteer is Cheryl Dinger with Tiny Paws Daycare and Boarding Service. She is working on a project to make coats for the dogs to wear while they are outside in the cold.
The Women's Resource Center (WRC) has partnered with Tiny Paws and Sew Unique to help create these dog coats for the shelter. WRC will donate gently used coats that don't sell in their store and they will be turned into high fashion for Pit Bulls and Chihuahuas alike. Gone are the days from the past when these dogs would be ridiculed because they weren't up to date on the latest colors and styles.
The coats will stay at the shelter, where the styles and sizes can be matched up to the breeds.
(above: Chris at Sew Unique, creating patterns for the dog coats made from donated coats from WRC.)
It takes about two hours of labor for each coat and it costs about $5 per coat for materials. Volunteers sewers are needed if you'd like to help with the project. Materials are needed as well: sew-on (non-glue) velcro strips, and double folded binding tape to make the coats (for strong edging). If you would like more information or are interested in helping, please contact Cheryl at 421-1554 or email Tinypaws@charter.net.
No word yet on whether bathing suits will be designed for the summer months.