MAGAZINEpetconnectionmagazine.com/pdfs/2016NSmayjune.pdf · Pet Connection Magazine and may NOT be reprinted or used ... behaviorist; and Penny Eims of the National Dog News Examiner

pet connectionM A G A Z I N E

TM

FREE! Take One!

north sound people, pets, & community! serving king & snohomish Counties

may/June 2016

Oskar & KlausBromance!

Starring in:

Canine Mental Health With Dr.

Temple Grandin & Dr. Brian Hare

The Art & Science of Being

a Farrier

The Paw Project: Feline Health Reimagined

Nutritional Tips For Mind

& Body

EXCLUSIVELY FOR


TM

TheMind & BodyBLOCKBUSTER!

TheMind & BodyBLOCKBUSTER!

Sarah Bous-LeslieDesigner/Publisher South Sound

Tracy CampionWriter/Publisher North Sound

Melissa L. ColeEditor

Sarah WeidemanStaff Writer

Julie AustinPhotographer

Cahill Designs / Stephanie CahillDesigner

Advertising Info:(360) 507-4251


TM

PO Box 845

East Olympia, WA 98540

www.petconnectionmagazine.com

[email protected]

© 2016 All Rights Reserved.Pet Connection Magazine does not discriminate against advertisers or submissions on the basis of religion, race,

creed, or political affiliation. We cannot be held liable for or guarantee the claims of advertisers. All material is property of Pet Connection Magazine and may NOT be reprinted or used

in whole or in part without written permission from PCM.

Inside this issue:May/June 2016

The Ballad of Oskar and Klaus

4 Dream Come True Pet Care Customizable Pet Sitting

4 Addison’s Disease “The Great Pretender”

5 Canine Mental Health with Dr. Temple Grandin

6 Average Joe Cat ShowMay 7th in Shoreline, WA

7 As Temps Rise Seattle Dogspot

8 Bark and Bid Prison Pet Partnership

9 Seattle Animal Shelter Unveils Cat & Critter Room Remodel

10 Local Events Summer Fun!

12 Vason Sheepdog ClassicThe Trials at Misty Isle

13 The Paw ProjectFeline Health Reimagined

13 Paw & OrderOfficer Mark Wong

3

14 Unsung HeroesA Dog Named Kitty

15 Connections: The ExaminerPenny Eims

16 Horse HealthThe Art and Science of a Farrier

17 Rat PoisonWhat You Need to Know

18 Nutritional Tips for Mind & BodyKymythy Schultze

19 Grassroots HeroesThe Paw Project

20 15 Signs of Cancer in PetsDr. Luminita Sarbu

21 Feral Cat Spay/Neuter ProjectCelebrates 100,000 Surgeries

22 Right Time to Say Good-byeCompassion 4 Paws

23 Balancing JackChapter One

When we decided to devote an issue to pet health and wellbeing, we knew that we wanted to provide the most thorough overview of pet health to date. This meant including an aspect of overall wellness that’s so often overlooked: mental health. So we consulted with experts from right here at home, and around the globe, to provide you with important information, phenomenal photographs, and original writing that you won’t find elsewhere.

This issue is packed with exclusive interviews, including the folks behind Oskar the Blind Cat (this is his FIRST magazine cover!); Dr. Brian Hare, founder of Dognition; Jennifer Conrad, DVM, the founder of the Paw Project; Kymythy Schultze, pet nutritionist; Dr. Luminita Sarbu, veterinary oncologist; Dr. Temple Grandin, world renowned animal behaviorist; and Penny Eims of the National Dog News Examiner. You’ll also read about

Seattle Animal Shelter’s big remodel, the Vashon Sheep Dog Classic, the Average Joe Cat Show, and so much more! Additionally, this issue sees the debut of Balancing Jack, a fun, personal throwback to the serial novels of the 19th century.

From nutrition to oncology, claws to hooves, and body to mind, this issue covers it all. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together! Happy reading – and here’s to pets who are happy, healthy, and thriving – body, mind, and soul.

-Tracy Campion

P.S. – Pet Connection Magazine debuted nearly a decade ago as a humble four-page periodical in the South Puget Sound; today, we’ve grown into TWO popular sister magazines, one in the South Sound and one in the North, but we still retain those same genuine, honest values. We’ve always brought fresh, local, original content to animal lovers across the Pacific Northwest – and 2016 is already our best year yet! We’re the only FREE publication in the Puget

Sound region focusing on people, pets, and community.

As we’ve grown, we haven’t lost our soul – our roots are here in the Pacific Northwest. We’ve remained down-to-earth, even as the breadth of our branches has spanned the Cascades to Central Washington. We’re a small but mighty magazine and we’re committed to remaining original, supporting local businesses, and bringing to life the vibrant stories of the Pacific Northwest animal community. We had our ninth annual Dog Gone Easter Egg Hunt in March and we raised more than $2,400 for charity – thank you so much to our supporters and to everyone who attended!

We’re committed to you, our community. And as a free publication that’s available at more than 1,000 locations in Washington State, we’re highly accessible – and when you advertise with us, your customers never have to pay to see your ad!

P.P.S. – Stay tuned for some very exciting news we’ll be announcing later this year!

Tracy and her childhood dog, Claire

Note from the Publisher

On the COVER:Oskar & Klaus!Page 3

On the COVER:Oskar & Klaus!Page 3

His name has been said millions of times, but it has never sounded sweeter than it does today.

Oskar the Blind Cat, Internet celebrity and champion for felines worldwide, has touched the lives of millions, including his 17-month-old human sibling, Faye. “Oskar” was Faye’s first word – and Oskar and his feline “brother,” Klaus, were her first friends, greeting her with a snuggle on the day she came home from the hospital. Long before he won Faye’s heart or became

a world-famous cativist for special needs animals worldwide, Oskar was a little kitten navigating the world outside – blind, alone, and vulnerable. In July 2011, Mick and Bethany Szydlowski weren’t looking for a pet – they were on a quest for an old autoharp, a rare musical instrument that had been advertised for sale online. They drove from their home in Omaha, Nebraska to a farm in the Loess Hills of Western Iowa where they found the harp – and something even more exceptional. “This little kitten was living outdoors, and the farmer who was selling the autoharp said, ‘If you want this, then you should take the cat, too,’” Mick recalled. “The kitten was confident, but he was an outdoor-only cat in an area known for a lot of predators, including raptors. We had one cat at home at the time, Klaus, so we thought we’d give him a chance.” Mick and Bethany dubbed the kitten “Oskar” and hoped that Klaus would approve, as he’d been less than enthusiastic about other cats before. But it was different with Oskar: it only took Klaus six days to decide that the bouncy, happy-go-lucky kitten was his new best friend. “Klaus started grooming and licking Oskar within the first week,” Mick recalled. “Cats rely upon facial expressions to gauge intent and read body language, and Klaus probably noticed that something was ‘off’ with Oskar.” Mick and Bethany weren’t sure what to expect – this was their first experience with a blind cat. “We thought he’d have issues finding the litter box, or we’d have to clean up a mess daily, or that he’d be running into things and have a hard time navigating. We thought he’d have some disadvantages – but he has an incredible memory. He has mental maps. It only takes him a day of exploring around the perimeter. He’s comfortable within a short amount of time.” While Oskar can’t see, he definitely doesn’t act like he has a handicap. It’s Oskar’s joy for life –

and Mick and Bethany’s refreshing viewpoint on his blindness in his book series – that has earned the support of the National Federation of the Blind. Mark Riccobono, the Federation’s president, recently visited Oskar and his family. “He’s the first one to the cat bowl,” Mick said, laughing, “and he can still climb. He has a tendency to climb the tallest thing in the house!” When Oskar has climbed something tall, as he often does, he descends backwards, first dangling a hind leg. While Oskar has no reaction to light stimulus, he does exhibit certain species-specific behaviors that appear to be innate, rather than learned, such as wiggling when he’s ready to jump. He also excels at opening doors, solving treat puzzles, and going for a ride on his skateboard. Klaus occasionally joins him as they hang ten. Since that first week, Klaus and Oskar have embarked on an epic bromance – and they’ve developed a cult following, too. The Internet first went wild about Oskar when Mick and Bethany uploaded a video of Oskar “boxing” the air coming out of the hair dryer in October 2011. “We really posted it for our friends and family,” Mick explained, “and then it went viral.” A subsequent video of Oskar playing with his first toy also went viral, and a feline phenom was born. “Grumpy Cat, Lil Bub and Oskar all became popular around the same time,” Mick said. “We had this breakthrough moment where we started acquiring fans.” With his constant smile, Oskar has universal appeal. Oskar has microphthalima: his eyes never fully developed and they are much smaller than normal. “He’s squinting all the time and looks like he’s smiling,” Mick said. “He’s a really happy cat. He has that appeal.” Four years and millions of views later, Oskar, Klaus, and their human family have grown in popularity – and they use their fame to help other animals in need. Oskar and Klaus proudly support the Paw Project (www.PawProject.org, see article, this issue) and local animal rescues, including Purrfect Pals (see article, this issue), PAWS (www.PAWS.org), and MEOW Cat Rescue (see article, this issue.) “We support the Paw Project because declawing was an accepted practice for years,” Mick explained. “But many declawed cats don’t show clear signs of distress. They’ll have litter box issues because they’re in pain. Claws are crucial to their ability to hunt, defend,

make biscuits – it’s a part of cat ownership. And the Paw Project is doing such a great job getting that information out there. Hopefully, we’ll see changes soon with declawing policies.” Mick and Bethany share Oskar because he has been in the spotlight since he was 8 weeks old. “A lot of people watched him grow up, and they want to see how he’s doing,” Mick said. “It’s nice to be a part of this community.” It was that same community that greeted Oskar and his family to Seattle, where they’ve lived for three years. “Everyone we know in this city we met because of Oskar and Klaus,” Bethany said. Oskar and Klaus are equally happy to greet people at the door and as spokes cats at the booths at the events they attend, including Purrfect Pals’ Average Joe Cat Show on May 7. “Klaus has a personality where he’s obsessed with people,” Mick said with a laugh. “Oskar is more cautious, especially when he’s in a space where sound reverberates, as that limits his ability to navigate.” What’s in the future for Oskar and Klaus? A new baby sister – and a new dog. “Klaus loves dogs – he has an almost unhealthy obsession,” Mick said. Mick and Bethany hope to continue to educate others on animal welfare – and keeping the family unit together when a new baby enters the family. “So many cats end up at the shelter because people think it’s not safe to have them when you’re pregnant, or have them around a baby,” Bethany said. “But it’s simply not true. Look at Klaus and Oskar – they’ve been loving with Faye since day one. We wouldn’t have it any other way.” Mick and Bethany plan to release a brail edition of Oskar and Klaus’ books, The Mission to Cataria and The Search For Bigfoot. They also hope to have a plush toy cat with a cane available for sale soon. To learn more about Oskar and Klaus, visit their website at www.oskarandklaus.com.

WE’RE HAVING AN OSKAR PARTY!

The Ballad of Oskar the Blind Cat & Klaus

“Oskar!”

WE’RE HAVING AN OSKAR PARTY!

The Ballad of Oskar the Blind Cat & Klaus

“Oskar!”

4 Pet Connection Magazine North Edition • May/June 2016

12305 120th Ave. NE, Ste. KKirkland, WA 98034

Tel: 425.827.8727Fax: 425.822.9912

www.AESVETS.com • ALWAYS OPEN!

Animal Emergency & SpecialtyLocally owned in Kirkland since 1980!

• 24-Hour Emergency & Critical Care• Complex Soft-Tissue & Orthopedic Surgery• Full-Service Rehabilitation Department• In- & Out-Patient Radiology

24-Hour Emergency Vet

Pets, like people, have unique personalities, preferences, and needs. Fortunately, today’s pet owners have a variety of choices in pet care. Take local business, Dream Come True Pet Care.

With Dream Come True Pet Care, your pet bonds with one person. And that one person is your pet’s trusted companion when you go out of town or are away from home for several hours. That’s one benefit to choosing a local pet sitting business. You get consistent, personalized service.

Additionally, we take the risk out of giving a pet sitter access to your home while you’re not there. You can rest assured that your dedicated pet sitter has passed a background check, is bonded and insured, and is certified in Pet First Aid & CPR as well as Professional Pet Sitting.

So what else sets Dream Come True Pet Care apart from some of your other options? We walk one dog at a time, so your dog gets our undivided attention. Of course, if you have two dogs and want them walked together, that’s fine. But your dog will not be walked with dogs from other households. We offer 15-, 30-,

45-, and 60-minute visits for all pets. The time can be spent how you see fit (walking, playing, feeding, petting, etc.) It’s a completely customizable service.

What about cats? Some cats don’t like anyone but the owner and refuse to come out of hiding for a pet sitter. For these cases, we offer 15-minute visits

Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticisim) is caused by inadequate production of hormones due to a dysfunction of the adrenal glands, which are located near the kidneys. Adrenal hormones are essential to healthy body function. If left untreated, Addison’s can lead to serious health problems and even death. While pets of all ages and both sexes may develop Addison’s, it is most common in young to middle-aged female dogs. It is rarely seen in cats.

Veterinarians frequently misdiagnose Addison’s disease because affected pets have a wide variety of symptoms of varying degrees, which can wax and wane over a period of months or even years. Common symptoms include lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, excessive urination, weight loss, depression, tremors, and muscle weakness. Patients may erroneously be diagnosed as having inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), infections, parasites, renal failure, urinary blockage, pancreatitis, etc. Because Addison’s can resemble so many other illnesses, it is often called “The Great Pretender.”

Consequently, many families do not become aware of the disease until their pets end up in the emergency room in an Addisonian crisis. Pets in crisis may present with multiple or acute forms of the symptoms above, collapsed, or unresponsive. Fortunately, there is a definitive test, called the ACTH response test, to determine if a pet has Addison’s disease. With hospitalization and treatment including intravenous (IV) fluid therapy and glucocorticoid steroids, along with supportive care, many pets in Addisonian crisis show rapid improvement.

Because there is no cure for Addison’s disease, life-long adrenal hormone replacement and electrolyte monitoring will be necessary. Long-term care typically involves an oral medication daily or a subcutaneous injection (shot) every 25 days, plus glucocorticoid supplements. Monitoring electrolytes

through regular blood tests will be important, especially when beginning treatment. The key is to partner with a family veterinarian or internal medicine specialist to find the lowest effective doses of appropriate medications.

Because stress can exacerbate the symptoms of Addison’s disease, families with Addisonian pets will need to take special precautions – either to avoid stress or increase medications during stressful times. Stress can take many forms, both physiological (like illness, injury, surgery, overexertion, etc.) and emotional (including unfamiliar environments or people, loss of a furry or human companion, changes in routine, or even a new toy). As with people, what one pet might find stressful and how much stress a pet may be able to tolerate will vary.

Properly diagnosed and managed, the prognosis for pets with Addison’s disease is excellent. Although the necessary financial, emotional, and time commitments may at first seem daunting to families with Addisonian pets, advancements in veterinary medicine are making life easier. For example, a new, more affordable medication recently hit the market. With a little help from their families, pets with Addison’s disease can live long, happy lives!

If you suspect your pet may have Addison’s disease, please consult your family veterinarian. If you observe any signs of an Addisonian crisis or other emergency, call the experienced Emergency & Critical Care Team at AES straight away! AES is always here for you and your pet – 24/7/365. Questions? Call us anytime at 425.827.8727.

at a reduced rate. A 15-minute visit is just enough time to check on your cat’s welfare, provide fresh food and water, and scoop the litter boxes.

The 30-minute cat visits include 15 minutes of petting and playing for cats that are more social. We also offer 45- and 60-minute visits. It’s all about what’s right for you and your pet.

One of our most popular offerings is the overnight service. With this service, your pet sitter will care for your pets in their own home. The service runs from 8:00PM to 8:00AM and includes a walk at 8:00PM and a walk at 7:00AM. The pet sitter spends the whole night with your pets. This is great for people who have multiple pets: the overnight service is the same price, whether you have one dog or several pets in the home!

I‘ve personally worked many overnight pet sitting jobs and I must say, when I see the pets I’m caring for enjoying lap time, sleeping in their own beds, eating in their own kitchens, and playing with their own toys, it makes me feel like I’m really making a difference in that pet’s life. We may never get rich as pet sitters, but it is truly fulfilling and joyous work. Money can’t buy happiness, but doggie kisses can.

Visit www.DreamComeTruePetCare.com for more information and pricing details. Or just give us a call at 206-697-1269. Dream Come True Pet Care serves the greater North Seattle area.

Customizable Pet Sitting ServicesDream Come True Pet Care

Addison’s Disease – Diagnosing & Managing “The Great Pretender”Mark O’Hanlon, DVM – Animal Emergency & Specialty (AES)

www.petconnectionmagazine.com 5

Animal Friends Portraits

Perfect for memorials, celebrations, birthdays, anniversaries, all special events www.animalfriendsportraits.com [email protected] 206 601 6278

Custom whimsical paintings by

For animal behaviorist Dr. Temple Grandin, mental health is a key component to a dog’s overall wellbeing. Dogs, who have been bred over generations to be hyper-social, can suffer from a wide range of mental health issues, including separation anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For good mental health, dogs may need both preventative measures and intervention later on, after indications of mental health issues arise.

Separation anxiety & Stress

Separation anxiety is one of the major mental health issues exhibited by modern dogs. “Dogs are spending too much time cooped up alone – and they aren’t handling it very well,” Grandin explained. “Dogs need people and they need other dogs – they’re social animals.”

If your dog has exhibited signs of separation anxiety or stress, including destructive behaviors such as chewing household objects,

Grandin has some advice. “If you can, take them to work with you; if you can’t, take them to a doggy daycare or get a neighbor to babysit,” she said. “Some dogs just can’t tolerate so much time alone. If you have a puppy, it’s important to teach them when they’re young to not be like glue on you –they need to be able to tolerate some time on their own. It’s for their benefit and for yours.”

Fearful Behavior

For dogs who exhibit fearful behavior, Grandin advises paying close attention for possible stressors. “If you have a rescue dog, you might

not know their background. If they’re fearful, it’s possible they were abused. They may be afraid of very specific things, like baseball hats or tennis shoes, because their abuser wore them.

“Animals who were abused will associate what they were seeing or hearing at the time of their abuse with abuse in general; thus, they’ll fear those objects,” she said. Grandin has seen dogs who were afraid of broom handles, newspapers, specific hats, shoes, or jackets. “Sometimes, you can determine what they’re afraid of – and then you can help them learn to cope with it.”

Finding the Trigger

Finding the reason behind a behavior is key to good mental health for our canine companions. “Figure out what they’re specifically afraid of – what’s triggering that fear? If they’re afraid of newspapers, maybe they were hit with newspapers; just don’t have them in your home. But if they’re afraid of broom handles, it’s hard to get rid of everything with a long handle. And some dogs are afraid if you just raise your hand. You can do conditioning to help desensitize them to this.”

If you notice your dog chewing your remote control or your favorite book when you’re away, try to understand the reason behind this behavior. “These issues are becoming more common as dogs are left alone for longer periods of time and they’re having separation anxiety,” Grandin explained. “They’re chewing things like your favorite book or the remote because those items have your scent on it – that’s what you’re handling the most.”

Mental Health Tips

Prevention and intervention are equally important for good canine mental health. Nationwide, dogs are euthanized or given away because they have destructive behavioral issues, but there are reasons behind these behaviors – and solutions to help keep dogs in their homes.

“Dogs need lots of attention, so ensure they’re getting that socialization,” Grandin said. “For dogs in a kennel, the most important thing is to exercise them – get them out where they can spend time with you.”

If you’ve just adopted a puppy, Grandin advises teaching them autonomy, and if you’ve adopted an older dog and they’re exhibiting signs of stress or depression, she advises observing them closely to determine what’s triggering potentially destructive behaviors. Grandin added: “If you know the cause behind it, you can help them work through it.”

Dr. Temple Grandin is currently updating her best-selling book, Animals in Translation. She is a professor of Livestock Behavior & Welfare at Colorado State University. To learn more about her work, visit her website at www.templegrandin.com.

TROPICAL FISH

Largest SelectionBest QualityNo-Transhipping

4310 Northeast Hancock St.Portland, OR 97213

(503)287-3339

www.wetspottropicalfish.com

Canine Mental Health with Dr. Temple Grandin

herbal remedies. The Farm Dog Naturals line includes: Restore Salve for itch relief, flea dermatitis, hot spots, bug bites, and wound care, Salvation Salve for crusty noses, flaky dry skin, sunburn, sore paw pads, and hair re-growth, Relax Stress and Anxiety Aromatic Soother, a highly effective topical aromatherapy treatment, Relief for cleaning up pet “accidents” (but it also works as a deodorizer to remove skunk odor or to freshen dogs between baths!).

Farm Dog Naturals is a certified B Corporation, which means they have met rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. All of their remedies are Non-GMO, certified vegan through Vegan Action, and cruelty-free from Leaping Bunny. Farm Dog is a certified Gold member of Green America. Farm Dog Natural’s mission is to educate dog lovers about the importance of living an all-natural lifestyle and helping people to understand how their everyday actions impact the environment, the health of themselves, their animals, and society as a whole.

Please visit the website www.farmdognaturals.com where you can receive free domestic shipping, sign up for the newsletter, read the blog and join in lowering the impact you and your dog have on the environment.

Farm Dog Naturals, LLC has completed their relocation to Olympia, Washington – and they couldn’t be happier! Founded in 2007, Farm Dog Naturals is a woman-owned, sustainable company that produces handcrafted herbal remedies for the all-natural dog.

Canine herbalist and Dogs Naturally Magazine writer, Rita Hogan and dog nutrition specialist Lynn Higgins created their company, Farm Dog Naturals, after they met and discovered their mutual interests: dogs and the environment. At the time, Lynn owned an all-natural pet supply store in Nashville,TN, and Rita owned a kennel-free dog boarding facility just outside the city. The first product they created was a vegan, grain-free/potato-free biscuit that raw-fed dogs could eat. At the same time, Rita was working on a variety of healing salves for dogs that used local organic herbs combined with ethically sourced butters and oils to heal a variety of common canine skin issues.

Although their biscuits were successful, Lynn and Rita decided that the biscuit business wasn’t for them, so they focused their attention on

Farm Dog Naturals Relocate to Olympia!


Sat.May 7th

Shoreline

Average Joe Cat ShowPurrfect Palswww.purrfectpals.orgWhen: Saturday, May 7, 2016; 10am – 3pmWhere: Spartan Recreation Center202 NE 185th St.; Shoreline, WAAdmission: $5 per person; $12 per family (online or at the door)

The Average Joe Cat Show is a fun, family-friendly event hosted annually by Purrfect Pals, the largest no-kill cat shelter and sanctuary in the region. On May 7th, 2016, dozens of “average” housecats and their proud owners will gather at Shoreline’s Spartan Recreational Center to compete in silly cat show categories like “Most Impressive Ear Hair,”

“Loudest Purr,” and “Longest Tail.” It’s an event dedicated to those beloved, quirky goofballs who curl up in our laps every evening, make us laugh, and drive us crazy in all the best ways. In addition to the live show, there’s also an online cat photo contest, with people from all over submitting photos of their beloved cats and voting for their favorites in a variety of categories. Vote for your top picks online now at http://purrfectpals.org/photo-contest-entries-vote-for-your-favorites/ ! This entertaining, educational event also features adoptable kitties from Purrfect Pals and a number of other Puget Sound shelters and rescue groups, food trucks right outside, a vendor fair featuring lots of creative, often hand-made cat toys and supplies, information booths about a variety of animal-related

causes like spay/neuter and anti-declawing, and a silent auction with artwork, cat goodies, jewelry, and more!We’ll also have some very special celebrity guests again this year: Oskar the Blind Cat and his buddy Klaus will be back with some of their awesome cat toys and other goodies! (https://www.oskarandklaus.com)The Average Joe Cat Show is our most popular event and is appropriate for kitty lovers of all ages. Join the fun, Saturday, May 7th! Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. $5 per person, or bring your entire family for only $12! Hope to see you there!http://purrfectpals.org/newsevents/ajcs2016

Y

ou’re I

nvited!

Dog-A-ThonSaturday, July 23

9:00 am - 2:00 pmFort Steilacoom Park

Raise pledges to benefit homeless animals, and join your friends for the best dog event in the Northwest! Visit www.thehumanesociety.org.

In 2001, Jeff Henshaw just wanted a fun escape from the office, so he organized a ride for a small group of motorcycle enthusiasts at his workplace. “That spring and summer of 2001 were pretty intense, with a lot of hard work,” he explained. “About a dozen riders decided to play hookey one Friday to get out and enjoy the sunshine on our motorcycles. We rode up to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, about 90 minutes north of Seattle. It’s a good place to ride to via back roads along Puget Sound, walk through the colorful fields, buy some flowers, enjoy some beautiful farmland, and have lunch.”

It was such a welcome change of scenery that the motorcyclists decided to do it again the following year – and each year afterward. The annual excursion became known as the Tulip Ride, and each year, there were a few new faces who joined in the fun. “It grew to the point that we realized we could do some good by focusing on raising funds for a worthwhile charity,” Henshaw said. “At that point, our partnership with Seattle Humane Society began, and we’ve been raising funds for them via the ride every year since!”

The Tulip Ride has seen as many as 400 participants – and last year, the ride raised a record $50,000 for Seattle Humane! “Those funds help thousands of animals in need, as Seattle Humane works on their goal of saving lives and completing families,” Henshaw said.

“The Tulip Ride is a day of fun and giving, and brings hundreds of people together in that spirit. Of course the ride itself is the central theme of the day, but we also get to rub elbows with celebrity guests, including Bender from 106.1 FM., our top donors enjoy a VIP dinner after the ride, and the tulip fields are beautiful for everyone,” he said. “Ultimately, it’s a fun and relaxed day in one of the most beautiful parts of the world: the Pacific Northwest. We all get an added perk of knowing that we did some good for a worthwhile cause in the process.”

This year’s Tulip Ride had close to 300 participants who rode to help Seattle Humane continue helping animals in need. Please join Pet Connection Magazine in thanking these motorcyclists who ride for a cause! To learn more about the tulip Ride, visit www.tulipride.org.

Katee, Tricia, & Jeff Henshaw

Pedals and Blooms: THE TULIP RIDE RAISES FUNDS FOR SEATTLE HUMANE

As temperatures rise, Seattle Animal Shelter reminds us to protect pets from heat


WWW.SEATTLEDOGSPOT.COM

Robert Pregulman - Seattle DogSpot

Motley Zoo Animal Rescue recently spent an evening with Slayer, Testament, and Carcass – and these “tough guys” proved they’re softies, after all, as they cuddled out with the rescue puppies. The Motley Zoo Crew hung out with Kerry King, Paul Bostaph, Tom Araya, and Gary Holt, and the guys from Testament. They’re huge fans of Motley Zoo Animal Rescue and their mission, too, and they loved the one-on-one puppy time. Kerry has quite a zoo of his own, including two new kittens whose photos he was sharing! Afterward, Kim Thayil of Soundgarden surprised everyone backstage and asked to see the puppies, too!

The real magic happened after Motley Zoo posted on Facebook about the warm hearts of these heavy metal stars: the post was viewed millions of times and helped raise much-needed money for the nonprofit organization.

Motley Zoo relies upon donations from animal loving rockers – their veterinary bills are $15,000 every month. Consider making a donation on their website at motleyzoo.org, and stay tuned for the unveiling of their new vodka, Rescue on the Rocks. You’ll be able to party like a rock star while saving lives. Thank you, Slayer, Testament, and Carcass, for your support of animal rescue. And thank you, Motley Zoo, for all that you do!

Heavy Metal, Happy Hearts: Slayer to the Rescue

Kerry King & Jme Thomas

With temperatures on the increase, the Seattle Animal Shelter is reminding pet owners to exercise good judgment and use common sense when it comes to protecting their pets.

As many homes in the Northwest aren’t equipped with air conditioning due to our normally moderate climate, people leave their windows wide open during warm weather. The fresh air is essential to you and your pets, but be aware of the enticement and danger an open, screenless window can pose for cats.

“Make sure your window screens are secure, especially on second floors and above,” said Seattle Animal Shelter Director Don Jordan. “Open, screenless windows are an invitation to tempt the old adage ‘curiosity killed the cat.’ They may be known for always landing on their feet, but those little paws are no match for the combination of hard ground and gravity when the fall begins six, or even two, stories up.”

Jordan also warned pet owners against leaving animals in vehicles.

“It’s not worth the risk. Cars in direct sunlight can reach fatal temperatures within just a few minutes,” he said. “Even on a 70-degree day, cars left in the sun can turn into lethal ovens, and, with the movement of the sun, cars originally left in the shade can soon be in direct sunlight.”

A Washington state law that went into effect last year makes it a violation just to leave an animal unattended in a vehicle or enclosed space, if the animal could be harmed or killed by exposure to excessive heat or cold, lack of ventilation or lack of water. Jordan said that the shelter’s humane law enforcement officers responding to calls about animals left in hot cars will utilize all means necessary to access vehicles to remove the animals.

The Seattle Animal Shelter offers the following tips for protecting pets during hot weather:

• Never leave your animal tethered or kenneled in direct sunlight. Provide a shady area for retreat, such as a doghouse, porch or shady tree, and always provide access to plenty of cool water.

• If you leave animals indoors, open the screened windows, keep a fan running, provide plenty of water, and if possible, leave them in a cool location.

• Never leave dogs or cats unattended in a closed, locked vehicle. Animals do not perspire like humans; they cool themselves by panting. Vinyl, leather and even cloth seats in vehicles get hot under animals’ feet and prevent them from perspiring through their paws.

• If you must travel with your pet, carry water. If a trip requires you leave your pet in the car at any point, think about saving that for another day. It’s not worth the risk.

• Avoid overexerting your animal in hot weather. Exercise is fine when taken in moderation, but obesity, old age, underlying disease and previous bouts of heat stroke can predispose an animal to the condition.

If you see an animal that may be in need of assistance, or if you have questions, contact the Seattle Animal Shelter at 206-386-7387 (PETS). Information is also available online at www.seattleanimalshelter.org.

Vehicle TemperatureOutside Inside Time to Reach 75 120 30 minutes 85 100 7-10 minutes100 140 15 minutes


Since 1982, the Prison Pet Partnership (PPP) has fulfilled a dual mission that’s unique among non-profit organizations. The PPP, which is located on the grounds of the Washington Corrections Center for Women in Gig Harbor is dedicated to making a difference for people and animals alike.

The PPP rescues and trains homeless animals to provide service dogs for persons with disabilities, and cares for beloved family pets from the community, year-round in its boarding and grooming facilities. The organization’s innovative programs and successful track record have received praise from participants, clients, and from professionals in the field. “Our vocational education and dog training programs help people and animals,” explained development manager Jill Voelkler.

“We were recently re-accredited by Assistance Dogs International (ADI),” she said. “This is a long and detailed process that insures we’re training highly-skilled service dogs to be placed with individuals who are in need a service partner for their mobility or seizure disorder.” In March, several of PPP’s inmate groomers tested to reach the next level or additional certifications towards their Master Groomer Certificates and all passed with high marks. “They’ll be ahead of other applicants who do not have these credentials once released,” Voelkler said.

Every year, PPP places approximately twenty “Paroled Pets” – dogs who are well trained, but who don’t meet all of the requirements of the ADI. These dogs go to loving families within the local community and the inmates who worked with them in the program are able to work with the next potential ADI candidate.

“A perk of working at PPP is not only being surrounded by lots of dogs (and cats), but getting to bring your own dogs to work with you,” she said. “Groups visiting the program always want to visit the

‘dog program’ so they can see and meet our dogs!”

The organization’s upcoming Bark and Bid Fundraiser is pivotal to its continued success. “This year, our goal is to raise $82,000,” Voelkler said. “All proceeds from the event will help PPP further its mission to enrich the lives of inmates, homeless animals and the community through the human-animal bond.”

The thirteenth annual Bark and Bid will be held on May 21, 2016, at the Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center. Tickets are $75 and should be purchased by May 11, 2016 to guarantee a space. The Bark and Bid is a fun-filled evening with live and silent auctions and a sit-down dinner. “Our guests get to meet Demo Dogs and our Service Dogs-in-training at the event,” Voelkler said. “This year’s featured speaker is Camille, who is a former inmate, dog trainer, and groomer from our program. She’ll share her story of how PPP helped her become a successful groomer, earning a livable wage after her release from prison.”

For information and for tickets, go to www.prisonpetpartnership.org or contact Jill Voelkler at [email protected] with questions.

“We hope to see you at Bark and Bid!” Voelkler added.

Prison Pet Partnership’s Bark and Bid

You’re invited!

Prison Pet Partnership invites you to our

13th annual charity auction

Tacoma Convention Center

1500 Broadway

Space is limited! Please RSVP by May 11

Saturday MAY 215–9PM

sit-down dinner • silent & live auctions

ADVERTISING DONATED BY PET CONNECTION MAGAZINE

For more info or to register: PrisonPetPartnership.org

253-858-4200 x82596


After nearly a year of construction, the Seattle Animal Shelter’s (SAS) remodeled cat and critter rooms were officially presented on March 17 with Mayor Ed Murray on-hand to snip the ceremonial yarn for a crowd that included staff, volunteers, donors, and the public.

The renovations doubled the housing unit space to provide cats more room and allow for their litter boxes to be placed further from their sleeping and eating areas. Three roaming rooms were added as were a climbing wall and perching boxes for cats.

“The capacity went down a little. We could fit a lot of cats before, but now we have increased the space per cat,” said Don Baxter, SAS Animal Care Manager.

The critters (animals that aren’t dogs, cats, or wildlife) gained their own room with housing units specifically designed for them, particularly for the rabbits—the third most common animal seen at the shelter (cats being number one, followed by dogs). The upgrade also includes a new veterinary exam room and an updated HVAC system, which allows for nine complete air exchanges per hour (much better than the pre-remodel exchange of three per hour).

“The goal is to have that much more fresh air coming in. It will reduce the upper respiratory and other infections you see in shelters,” said Baxter.

Following the yarn cutting, Mayor Murray, who was eager to check out the cats, did a walk-through of the facility. Murray spent time in one of the cat rooms, interacting with domestic short-hair cats, 12-year old Beautiful Grace and eight-year-old Raja.

Jackie Call, a former SAS volunteer for eight years,

marveled at the extra handling room that the new units allow. “It’s fantastic for the animals because there’s so much more room to help them.”

The Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF) contributed $220,000 for the cat and critter rooms’ remodel and an additional $65,000 for the veterinary exam room. Other funding sources included $200,000 from the shelter’s Help the Animals and Shelter Expansion funds and $1.6 million from other city funds. Including the additional structural work, the total project cost $2.1 million.

Baxter noted the shifting and challenges the remodel construction required. Nearly 90 new foster care families pitched in to help. Two hundred animals went into foster care. Temporary animal care trailers were set up in the SAS parking lot to house cats and critters. Dogs were also relocated to the trailers during the day to keep them away from the construction noise (at night, they went back to their kennels). The public continued to come to the shelter. The staff continued working on adoptions through the jack-hammering and the settling concrete dust.

Neighboring shelter and welfare agencies—PAWS Lynnwood, Seattle Humane Society, Everett Animal Shelter, Humane Society Tacoma-Pierce County, and Auburn Valley Humane Society—stepped up

and opened their doors to those surrender animals SAS was unable to take.

“Lots of kudos to them for being great neighbors,” said Baxter.

The Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF) is a group of passionate animal lovers who work to raise funds to help the animals.

“The foundation is successful because of our amazing donors. I can’t stress that enough. I can get up here and say how great it is for the foundation but really it’s a thank you to our amazing donors and supporters. Our board is all volunteers. We have developed and continue to grow this wonderful group of Seattleites and beyond who have a love for the animals and help support them. I know that the cats and many critters will thank us all,” said Julie Pitt, SASF President.

According to Ania Beszterda-Alyson, Director of Volunteer & Community Engagement at SAS, in 2015, the shelter adopted out 333 dogs, 764 cats and 158 critters for a total of 1,255 rescued animals. The shelter also facilitated 617 reunions of lost pets with their owners. Through partnerships with specialized rescue organizations, SAS rescued 287 wildlife and 144 companion animals. In addition to their life-saving work with animals that arrive at the shelter, SAS also investigated more than 1,000

animal cruelty cases.

“This brings the total number of animals SAS rescued and protected last year to 3,303—all this thanks to the support of our dedicated volunteers, foster parents, donors, citizens and staff,” said Beszterda-Alyson.

The Seattle Animal Shelter is located at 2061 15th Ave W., Seattle, WA 98119. Visit www.seattle.gov/animalshelter for more information.

Seattle Animal Shelter Unveils Cat and Critter Rooms RemodelDiana Mivelli Photos Courtesy of City of Seattle

More than 2,000 two-legged and 1,000 four-legged participants are already signed up to walk or run the Furry 5K, Seattle Animal Shelter’s largest fundraiser of the year. Vendors will be on site with clothing, leashes, local vets, pet insurance, and food (for people and for pets!) There will be smooches from a pit bull kissing booth and a photo booth to capture the moment.

All dogs will receive a commemorative bandana and enjoy a nice, long walk. Dogs of all ages are encouraged to participate! In 2015, the second fastest male runner was nine years old. Small dogs are welcome, too! In 2013 and 2014, the race winner was a Pomeranian who ran the entire route.

Registration is now open at www.furry5k.com.

JUNE 12SEWARD PARKphoto by Brandon O’Connor

B e n e f i t s t h e S e a t t l e A n i m a l S h e l t e R ’ sH e l p t h e A n i m a l s F u n d

FUN RUN + WALK SEWARD PARK | JUNE 12, 2016

$30 WITH T-SHIRT | RACE STARTS @ 10AM

PRESENTING SPONSOR

MAY 1ST

RED SQUARE CAR SHOW CHARITY EVENT FOR PAWS12-4p, UW Red Square, rain or shine. Join Cats Exotics, NorthWest Auto Salon, & Sigma Phi Epsilon for the 9th Annual Red Square Charity Cat Show (RSCS.) All proceeds from this event goes toward helping PAWS help wild & companion animals. Features a broad spectrum of high-end exotics, import tuners, & classic muscle cars. Pet-friendly. $5 suggested donation/spectators; $60 per car show entry. http://redsquarecarshow.com

MAY DAY AT THE SEATTLE AQUARIUM The Aquarium’s marine mammals will receive treats of flower-shaped ice toys. www.seattleaquarium.org/aquarium-events

POINT DEFIANCE ZOO GARDEN TOUR 10a-4p. Learn how the plants on the zoo grounds fit into the ecosystem & how plants & animals relate. Meet at the Pacific Rim Plaza, just inside the front gate. Tours are free with admission or membership. For more information: www.pdza.org

5TH OSKAR PARTY! 5-7p. Natural Pet Pantry, 10600 NE 68th Street Ste. D, Kirkland. Please join Pet Connection Magazine, Julie Austin Photography, & Oskar & Klaus & Family for a Cinco de MEOW Oskar Party as we celebrate Oskar & Klaus FIRST magazine cover - & Oskar’s Birthday! Swag bags for the first 30 people through the door!

SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP 6-7:30p. Seattle Animal Shelter conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W. Seattle. Safe, supportive place where pet parents who have lost a beloved animal can share stories about their pet & work through their grief. Groups led by trained facilitator. 206-386-7387 (PETS). www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/events-and-resources/pet-loss-support-group

6TH EMERALD CITY PET RESCUE ADOPTION EVENT 11a-2p. Starbucks HQ Plaza, Seattle. www.emeraldcitypetrescue.org

7TH SEATTLE REPTILE SHOW 10a-5p. Evergreen State Fairgrounds, 14405 179th Ave. SE, Monroe. $10/adults, $5/kids 6-12, 5 & under free. www.nwreptileexpos.com/seattle-metro-reptile-expo

AVERAGE JOE CAT SHOW 10-3p, Spartan Recreation Center, 202 NE 185th St., Shoreline. $5/person $12/family. Event benefiting Purrfect Pals. Contests, vendors, & celebrity guests! http://purrfectpals.org/newsevents/ajcs

ADOPT-A-PET PLANT SALE 9a-3p. Our Community Credit Union, 2948 Olympic Highway N., Shelton. Find everything you need for spring planting, plus great baskets & yard art, while supporting your local non-profit all-volunteer dog shelter! http://www.adoptapet-wa.org

MOTLEY ZOO ADOPTION EVENT 11a-3p. Redmond PetCo, 7215 170th Ave. NE. Redmond. Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/864149587031139

HUMANE SOCIETY OF MASON COUNTY ANNUAL FUNDRAISER/DINNER AUCTION 5:30p. Alderbrook Resort & Spa. Reservations: (360) 275-3419

POINT DEFIANCE ZOO HALF PRICE MOM’S DAY 930a-5p. Bring your mom for a special day jam-packed with new experiences! All moms receive half-off general admission. For more information: www.pdza.org.

NATIONAL ANIMAL DISASTER PREPAREDNESS DAY WORKSHOP 12-4p. Sumner Mud Bay, 15105 Main Street E., Ste, 101, Sumner, WA. (253) 863-0513.

8TH NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE (NWSAM) FUNdamentals OF ANIMAL MASSAGE – LOLA MICHELIN www.nwsam.com/schedule.html

MOTHER’S DAY AT THE SEATTLE AQUARIUM Members-only early opening at 9a with a special gift for moms. www.seattleaquarium.org/aquarium-events

AHELP PROJECT CAREGIVER SUPPORT CIRCLE 2-4p. Seattle Unity Church, 200 8th Ave. N., Seattle. If you are grieving the loss of a pet or if you are caring for an animal who is approaching end of life or was recently diagnosed with a life-altering illness, the Caregiver Circle offers a safe environment to share your journey. www.AHELPProject.org.

9TH – 13TH NWSAM LEVEL 300 SMALL ANIMAL MASSAGE PRACTICAL www.nwsam.com/schedule.html

12TH SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP 6-7:30p. Seattle Animal Shelter conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W. Seattle. 206-386-7387 (PETS). www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/events-and-resources/pet-loss-support-group

14TH MOTLEY ZOO ADOPTION EVENT 11a-3p. Woodinville PetSmart, 17845 Garden Way NE. Facebook Event: www.facebook.com/events/558564140988972/

PAINT YOUR PET! 2:30p. Mind Unwind, 2206A California Ave. SW. An afternoon of artistic expression. Reserve your seat today for $45 by visiting frankiesfriends.org/Washington. Space is limited & proceeds benefit Frankie’s Friends.

WISHES FOR WHISKERS CHARITY AUCTION & FUNDRAISER 5p. The Heritage Room Downtown, 604 Water Street SW, Olympia. Hors d’oeuvres, drinks, & dinner by Occasions catering, dessert function, & live & silent auctions. Proceeds go to Covenant Creatures Companion Animal Program, which provides assistance to low-income neighbors to help take care of their pets. Tickets are $40 each. www.facebook.com/events/437895056417674

PUGET SOUND PET FOOD BANK 10a. 1601 6th Ave., Tacoma. The Puget Sound Pet Food Bank provides food, treats, & supplies for pets in need.

14TH - 15THBEAR CAMP AT NORTHWEST TREK Sat/Sun 11a-4p. Learn about some of the most powerful mammals in North America at Bear Camp! Meet 8-year-old bear siblings Benton & Fern, who will get the run of a mock campsite, & grizzly bear Denali, who will tackle food containers, to demonstrate the importance of camp safety. Meet a Karelian Bear Dog from the WA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife & bring your teddy bear for a check up from a licensed Teddy Bear-ologist. All activities FREE with admission or membership to Northwest Trek. www.nwtrek.org/events?cid=945

15TH VEG BURGER MASTERS – COOKING CLASS & SANCTUARY TOUR 12-3p. Pasado’s Safe Haven, Sultan. Sanctuary tour with chance to meet the animals of Pasado’s followed by Q&A & a cooking class with Fire & Earth Kitchen. Menu features vegan cuisine: mega umami burgers with greens & roasted tomatoes; crispy onion rings; & seasoned backed potato wedges. $65/person. http://pasadosafehaven.org/event/veg-burger-masters-cooking-class-sanctuary-tour

METRODOG PET FIRST AID CLASS Wag the Dog Daycare, 15227 Ambaum Blvd. SW., Burien. $149; for more information, email us at [email protected].

17TH POINT DEFIANCE ZOO HALF PRICE FOR SENIORS & PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES 930a-6p. See www.pdza.org for more information.


21ST DOG TROT 3K/5K FUN RUN 8:30-10a. Game Farm Park, Auburn. Come walk your dog prior to Petpalooza! Benefits Auburn Parks & Rec. For registration: www.auburnwa.gov/Assets/Parks/AuburnWA/Docs/dog_trot_registration_form.pdf

MOTLEY ZOO ADOPTION EVENT 11a-3p. Ballard All The Best Pet Care 1909 NW Market St., Seattle. Facebook Event: www.facebook.com/events/1083450091706827/

PETPALOOZA! 10-5pm, Game Farm Park, Auburn, FREE to attend! www.auburnwa.gov/things_to_do/community/petpalooza_s_p205. htm?EventMode=View&EventOccurrence=0 See ad, this issue

CATIO TOUR SEATTLE 12-4p. Fun & informative tour features 10 catio locations in the greater Seattle area. Tour map, directions & catio information provided to all participants prior to the event. Organized & sponsored by PAWS, Catio Spaces, & the Humane Society of the United States. Suggested donation of $10 to help support education programs at PAWS. Proceeds from this fun event benefit PAWS. To register: www.catiotourseattle.com/tour-info-1.html

GREYHOUND PETS OF AMERICA GREATER NORTHWEST MEET & GREET 9a-2p. Puyallup Farmer’s Market – Pioneer Park, Meridian & Pioneer, Puyallup.

PUGET SOUND PET FOOD BANK 10a-12:30p, Shaggy Shack Pet Resort, 3508 224th St. E. , Spanaway. The Puget Sound Pet Food Bank provides food, treats, & supplies for pets in need.

CHEW RESCUE DOG ADOPTION EVENT 11a-2p. Cookies Corner & Wash, 1010 Bethel Ave., Port Orchard

FOREVER HOME DOG RESCUE ADOPTION EVENT 1-4p. Mud Bay – Queen Anne, 522 Queen Anne Ave. N., Seattle

23RD – 27TH NWSAM LEVEL 200 SMALL ANIMAL MASSAGE PRACTICAL http://www.nwsam.com/schedule.html

24TH SEATTLE MARINERS BARK AT THE PARK! 7:10p Safeco Field. Mariners vs. the Athletics. Baseball has gone to the dogs! Watch the game with your dog & take a special walk around the bases post-game. Check in at the Bark at the Park check in station outside of Safeco Field. Bring a copy of your dog’s current vaccination forms. One dog per adult (18+). For info, email [email protected] or call (206) 346-4519. See article, this issue


27TH PROTECT YOUR PET – VACCINATION & LICENSE CLINIC 3p, Seattle Animal Shelter 2061 15th Ave. W. Seattle

27TH - 28THCOLT STARTING CHALLENGE Fri. & Sat. 6-9p. Flying M Stables Indoor Arena, 3922 113th Ave SW, Olympia. Contestants compete to gentle & ride horses using Natural Horsemanship methods. Bring your own chairs. Buy tickets online: www.coltstartingchallengeusa.com. For information: (808) 250-9949 or [email protected]

28THSPAY NEUTER ALL PETS (SNAP) ANNUAL PLANT SALE 9am until all plants are sold! Parking Lot at Joint Animal Services, 3120 Martin Way E., Olympia. Lots of beautiful plants at low prices! (360) 352-2510.


28TH - 30TH FAMILY SCIENCE WEEKEND AT THE SEATTLE AQUARIUM Hands-on activities, special talks & demonstrations to help the entire family discover science. www.seattleaquarium.org/aquarium-events

29TH BEYOND BARKING ANIMAL COMMUNICATION 1130a-430p. Natural Pet Pantry, Kirkland. A day of 25-minute animal communication sessions! Email [email protected] with your preferred time slot betw. 12p-5p. Cost is $45 per session & must be paid in advance. For more information: http://beyondbarking.com/events. See article, this issue

30TH CLOSE OUT PLANT & GARAGE SALE FOR FELINE FRIENDS 9-2p. Griffin School, Steamboat Island. (360) 866-1909.

JUNE 2ND SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP 6-7:30p. Seattle Animal Shelter conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W. Seattle. 206-386-7387 (PETS). www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/events-and-resources/pet-loss-support-group

4THMOTLEY ZOO ADOPTION EVENT 11a-3p. Redmond PetCo, 7215 170th Ave. NE. Facebook Event: www.facebook.com/events/1032318706815120/

CONCERN FOR ANIMALS ANNUAL GARAGE SALE! 8-5p. Rick’s Automotive, 3531 Pacific Ave SE, Olympia. Find treasures at great prices & all proceeds benefit CFA! www.concernforanimals.org/upcoming-events.php. See ad, this issue

WINE & WINGS FUNDRAISER FOR SARVEY ANIMAL RESCUE 1p. Northwest Cellars, Kirkland. Fundraiser to support Sarvey Animal Rescue: www.sarveywildlife.org. Event: www.northwestcellars.com/events.html

4TH & 5TH SEATTLE PET EXPO Sat 10a-6p, Sunday 11a-4p. Washington State Convention Center, 705 Pike St, Seattle. Free admission. Bring your pet! Make sure to check out the entertainment all day on the Pet Connection Magazine Stage! www.seattlepetexpo.com. See ad, this issue.

5TH POINT DEFIANCE ZOO GARDEN TOUR 10a-4p. Learn how the plants on the zoo grounds fit into the ecosystem & how plants & animals relate. Meet at the Pacific Rim Plaza, just inside the front gate. Tours free with admission or membership. For more information: www.pdza.org

6TH NWSAM LEVEL 100 SMALL ANIMAL MASSAGE PRACTICAL http://www.nwsam.com/schedule.html

POINT DEFIANCE ZOO “EXPLORE THE SHORE” 11:45a. Become a citizen scientist at Owen Beach. For more information: www.pdza.org.


10TH AHELP ANIMAL CAREGIVER SUPPORT CIRCLE 2-4p, Seattle Unity Church. www.ahelpproject.org/calendar

11TH SUMMER LOVIN’ FUNDRAISER AT NORTHWEST CELLARS 1-4p. 21+. $15/advance, $20/at door. Includes wine tasting & appetizers. Dogs welcome! Benefits Homeward Pet. www.northwestcellars.com/events.html

METRODOG PET FIRST AID CLASS K9 Fun Zone, 25 Nickerson St., Seattle. $149; for more information, email at [email protected]


MOTLEY ZOO ADOPTION EVENT 11a-3p. Lake City All the Best Pet Care, 8050 Lake City Way NE, Seattle

11TH - 12TH WORLD OCEAN WEEKEND Seattle Aquarium. Celebrate the world’s one big ocean & learn to be an ocean hero. Everyone, no matter where they live, can help keep the ocean clean & healthy. Participate in hands-on activities & special demonstrations. www.seattleaquarium.org/aquarium-events

12TH ANNUAL FURRY 5K 10a -1p. Seward Park, 5900 Lake WA Blvd. S. 17th annual dog-friendly race to raise money for the Seattle Animal Shelter’s Help the Animals Fund. For more info: www.seattleanimalshelter.org. See ad & article, this issue.


POINT DEFIANCE ZOO MEMBERS’ WILD NIGHT 6-9p. Get to know the zoo from the inside out! For more info: www.pdza.org

17TH DACHSHUNDS ON PARADE! Now in its 14th year, this event sees hundreds of guests from across the NW who want to show off their beloved Dachshunds. Includes Short Parade, Dachshund Races, Stupid Pet Tricks, & Costume Contest. Come early & enjoy breakfast wit the Dogs Pancake Feed, sponsored by the Rodeo City Kiwanis Club. Downtown Ellensburg www.dachshundsonparade.com

17TH - 20TH 2016 PACIFIC NORTHWEST K9 SYMPOSIUM Friendly Grove Resort & Spa For Dogs. Develop/master skills of all levels. For more information: www.friendlygrove.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=79&Itemid=107

18TH GREYHOUND PETS OF AMERICA GREATER NORTHWEST MEET & GREET 9a-2p. Puyallup Farmer’s Market – Pioneer Park, Meridian & Pioneer


CHEW RESCUE DOG ADOPTION EVENT 11a-2p. Cookies Pet Corner & Wash, 1010 Bethel Ave., Port Orchard


19TH FREMONT FAIR DOG PARADE 2:30p, Seattle. The dog parade parallels its human counterpart, marching through the Fair Grounds featuring our furry friends of all shapes & sizes. Registration at 35th Avenue & Phinney, behind the big purple slide, from 11a-1:30p. $10 registration fee benefits COLA, Citizens for Off Leash Areas (www.seattlecola.org) & is required per dog family. www.fremontfair.com/entertainment.html

POINT DEFIANCE ZOO HALF-PRICE DADS’ DAY 930a-6p. All dads receive half off general admission! Bring your dad to the zoo for a wild time! For more information: www.pdza.org

21ST POINT DEFIANCE ZOO HALF PRICE FOR SENIORS & PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES 930a-6p. See www.pdza.org for more information.

22ND POINT DEFIANCE ZOO “EXPLORE THE SHORE” 12:15p. Become a citizen scientist at Owen Beach. For more info: www.pdza.org

23RD SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP 6-7:30p. Seattle Animal Shelter conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W. Seattle. 206-386-7387 (PETS). www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/events-and-resources/pet-loss-support-group


WHINE & CHEESE FUNDRAISER FOR AARF 6-10p. Glen Acres Golf & Country Club, 1000 S. 112th St., Seattle. www.facebook.com/events/620801044749137

25TH PUGET SOUND PET FOOD BANK 10a. 1601 6th Ave., Tacoma. The Puget Sound Pet Food Bank provides food, treats, & supplies for pets in need.

MOTLEY ZOO ADOPTION EVENT 11a-3p. Redmond All the Best Pet Care, 17875 Redmond Way. Facebook Event: www.facebook.com/events/587169978101597

25TH – 26TH SLUGFEST AT NORTHWEST TREK One of the zaniest weekends of the year at NW Trek! Games, crafts, & presentations. www.nwtrek.org/events?cid=965

CAPITOL HILL PRIDE FESTIVAL DOGGIE DRAG COSTUME CONTEST! 11a-1p, Registration 1-2pm, Judging & Awards at Main Stage. $5 donation benefits Seattle Humane Pet Project, Helping Clients with AIDS. www.capitolhillpridefestival.info

28TH - 29TH ADOPT-A-PET YARD SALE Sat 8-3, Sun 9-3. Adopt-A-Pet, 940 E. Jensen Rd, Shelton. Donated items accepted during kennel hours on M, W, F. www.facebook.com/events/1247402508609025


Western Washington’s MOST Comprehensive Pet Events Calendar! KEEP UP TO DATE ON NEW EVENTS! WWW.PETCONNECTIONMAGAZINE.COM


license • vaccinate • microchip

GoodNeighborVet.com • 888-234-1350

License your pet with the City of

Seattle, get a FREE rabies vaccine and

FREE exam!

Cats: $20 - $27 Dogs: $27 - $37* reflects 1 – 2 year license

prices for altered pets; unaltered prices are higher

Microchip your pet for $15, get a

FREE rabies vaccine and FREE exam!

$15 microchip fee includes free registration and no

annual fees

4th Friday of Every Month 3-6 pm

Seattle Animal Shelter2061 15th Ave W Seattle, WA 98119

Presented by Good Neighbor Vet in Partnership with

ProtectYour Pet

Additional vaccinations available for just $10 each!





FREE exam!






annual fees




ProtectYour Pet






FREE exam!






annual fees




ProtectYour Pet






FREE exam!






annual fees




ProtectYour Pet


bullseyerescue.org

save the date!

Saturday, Aug. 20, 2016

Ft. Steilacoom Park

visit bullseyerescue.org

FROM 10AM TO 3PM

8714 87TH AVE SWLAKEWOOD, WA 98498

FOR MORE INFORMATION

COME SEE ALL THE cool thingsYOU CAN DO WITH YOUR PIT BULL!

Adoptable Pit Bulls from around the Puget Sound! All breeds welcome!

NEW LOCATION

Saturday, May 21 10am - 5pm

Game Farm Park, 3030 R Street SE

Live Animal Entertainment 150+ Vendors • Petting Zoo

Agility & FlyDog Demos Frisbee Contest and Clinics

Pony Rides • Agility Area “Unleashed” Pet Contest

Children’s Activities AND MUCH MORE!

253-931-3043 | auburnwa.gov/petpalooza#petpalooza16

$18 per person by April 22$23 per person late

registration$25 per person on

event-day

3K/5KDOG TROT

MAY 1ST

RED SQUARE CAR SHOW CHARITY EVENT FOR PAWS12-4p, UW Red Square, rain or shine. Join Cats Exotics, NorthWest Auto Salon, & Sigma Phi Epsilon for the 9th Annual Red Square Charity Cat Show (RSCS.) All proceeds from this event goes toward helping PAWS help wild & companion animals. Features a broad spectrum of high-end exotics, import tuners, & classic muscle cars. Pet-friendly. $5 suggested donation/spectators; $60 per car show entry. http://redsquarecarshow.com

MAY DAY AT THE SEATTLE AQUARIUM The Aquarium’s marine mammals will receive treats of flower-shaped ice toys. www.seattleaquarium.org/aquarium-events

POINT DEFIANCE ZOO GARDEN TOUR 10a-4p. Learn how the plants on the zoo grounds fit into the ecosystem & how plants & animals relate. Meet at the Pacific Rim Plaza, just inside the front gate. Tours are free with admission or membership. For more information: www.pdza.org

5TH OSKAR PARTY! 5-7p. Natural Pet Pantry, 10600 NE 68th Street Ste. D, Kirkland. Please join Pet Connection Magazine, Julie Austin Photography, & Oskar & Klaus & Family for a Cinco de MEOW Oskar Party as we celebrate Oskar & Klaus FIRST magazine cover - & Oskar’s Birthday! Swag bags for the first 30 people through the door!

SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP 6-7:30p. Seattle Animal Shelter conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W. Seattle. Safe, supportive place where pet parents who have lost a beloved animal can share stories about their pet & work through their grief. Groups led by trained facilitator. 206-386-7387 (PETS). www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/events-and-resources/pet-loss-support-group

6TH EMERALD CITY PET RESCUE ADOPTION EVENT 11a-2p. Starbucks HQ Plaza, Seattle. www.emeraldcitypetrescue.org

7TH SEATTLE REPTILE SHOW 10a-5p. Evergreen State Fairgrounds, 14405 179th Ave. SE, Monroe. $10/adults, $5/kids 6-12, 5 & under free. www.nwreptileexpos.com/seattle-metro-reptile-expo

AVERAGE JOE CAT SHOW 10-3p, Spartan Recreation Center, 202 NE 185th St., Shoreline. $5/person $12/family. Event benefiting Purrfect Pals. Contests, vendors, & celebrity guests! http://purrfectpals.org/newsevents/ajcs

ADOPT-A-PET PLANT SALE 9a-3p. Our Community Credit Union, 2948 Olympic Highway N., Shelton. Find everything you need for spring planting, plus great baskets & yard art, while supporting your local non-profit all-volunteer dog shelter! http://www.adoptapet-wa.org

MOTLEY ZOO ADOPTION EVENT 11a-3p. Redmond PetCo, 7215 170th Ave. NE. Redmond. Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/864149587031139

HUMANE SOCIETY OF MASON COUNTY ANNUAL FUNDRAISER/DINNER AUCTION 5:30p. Alderbrook Resort & Spa. Reservations: (360) 275-3419

POINT DEFIANCE ZOO HALF PRICE MOM’S DAY 930a-5p. Bring your mom for a special day jam-packed with new experiences! All moms receive half-off general admission. For more information: www.pdza.org.

NATIONAL ANIMAL DISASTER PREPAREDNESS DAY WORKSHOP 12-4p. Sumner Mud Bay, 15105 Main Street E., Ste, 101, Sumner, WA. (253) 863-0513.

8TH NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE (NWSAM) FUNdamentals OF ANIMAL MASSAGE – LOLA MICHELIN www.nwsam.com/schedule.html

MOTHER’S DAY AT THE SEATTLE AQUARIUM Members-only early opening at 9a with a special gift for moms. www.seattleaquarium.org/aquarium-events

AHELP PROJECT CAREGIVER SUPPORT CIRCLE 2-4p. Seattle Unity Church, 200 8th Ave. N., Seattle. If you are grieving the loss of a pet or if you are caring for an animal who is approaching end of life or was recently diagnosed with a life-altering illness, the Caregiver Circle offers a safe environment to share your journey. www.AHELPProject.org.

9TH – 13TH NWSAM LEVEL 300 SMALL ANIMAL MASSAGE PRACTICAL www.nwsam.com/schedule.html


14TH MOTLEY ZOO ADOPTION EVENT 11a-3p. Woodinville PetSmart, 17845 Garden Way NE. Facebook Event: www.facebook.com/events/558564140988972/

PAINT YOUR PET! 2:30p. Mind Unwind, 2206A California Ave. SW. An afternoon of artistic expression. Reserve your seat today for $45 by visiting frankiesfriends.org/Washington. Space is limited & proceeds benefit Frankie’s Friends.

WISHES FOR WHISKERS CHARITY AUCTION & FUNDRAISER 5p. The Heritage Room Downtown, 604 Water Street SW, Olympia. Hors d’oeuvres, drinks, & dinner by Occasions catering, dessert function, & live & silent auctions. Proceeds go to Covenant Creatures Companion Animal Program, which provides assistance to low-income neighbors to help take care of their pets. Tickets are $40 each. www.facebook.com/events/437895056417674


14TH - 15THBEAR CAMP AT NORTHWEST TREK Sat/Sun 11a-4p. Learn about some of the most powerful mammals in North America at Bear Camp! Meet 8-year-old bear siblings Benton & Fern, who will get the run of a mock campsite, & grizzly bear Denali, who will tackle food containers, to demonstrate the importance of camp safety. Meet a Karelian Bear Dog from the WA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife & bring your teddy bear for a check up from a licensed Teddy Bear-ologist. All activities FREE with admission or membership to Northwest Trek. www.nwtrek.org/events?cid=945

15TH VEG BURGER MASTERS – COOKING CLASS & SANCTUARY TOUR 12-3p. Pasado’s Safe Haven, Sultan. Sanctuary tour with chance to meet the animals of Pasado’s followed by Q&A & a cooking class with Fire & Earth Kitchen. Menu features vegan cuisine: mega umami burgers with greens & roasted tomatoes; crispy onion rings; & seasoned backed potato wedges. $65/person. http://pasadosafehaven.org/event/veg-burger-masters-cooking-class-sanctuary-tour

METRODOG PET FIRST AID CLASS Wag the Dog Daycare, 15227 Ambaum Blvd. SW., Burien. $149; for more information, email us at [email protected].

17TH POINT DEFIANCE ZOO HALF PRICE FOR SENIORS & PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES 930a-6p. See www.pdza.org for more information.


21ST DOG TROT 3K/5K FUN RUN 8:30-10a. Game Farm Park, Auburn. Come walk your dog prior to Petpalooza! Benefits Auburn Parks & Rec. For registration: www.auburnwa.gov/Assets/Parks/AuburnWA/Docs/dog_trot_registration_form.pdf

MOTLEY ZOO ADOPTION EVENT 11a-3p. Ballard All The Best Pet Care 1909 NW Market St., Seattle. Facebook Event: www.facebook.com/events/1083450091706827/

PETPALOOZA! 10-5pm, Game Farm Park, Auburn, FREE to attend! www.auburnwa.gov/things_to_do/community/petpalooza_s_p205. htm?EventMode=View&EventOccurrence=0 See ad, this issue

CATIO TOUR SEATTLE 12-4p. Fun & informative tour features 10 catio locations in the greater Seattle area. Tour map, directions & catio information provided to all participants prior to the event. Organized & sponsored by PAWS, Catio Spaces, & the Humane Society of the United States. Suggested donation of $10 to help support education programs at PAWS. Proceeds from this fun event benefit PAWS. To register: www.catiotourseattle.com/tour-info-1.html

GREYHOUND PETS OF AMERICA GREATER NORTHWEST MEET & GREET 9a-2p. Puyallup Farmer’s Market – Pioneer Park, Meridian & Pioneer, Puyallup.


CHEW RESCUE DOG ADOPTION EVENT 11a-2p. Cookies Corner & Wash, 1010 Bethel Ave., Port Orchard


23RD – 27TH NWSAM LEVEL 200 SMALL ANIMAL MASSAGE PRACTICAL http://www.nwsam.com/schedule.html

24TH SEATTLE MARINERS BARK AT THE PARK! 7:10p Safeco Field. Mariners vs. the Athletics. Baseball has gone to the dogs! Watch the game with your dog & take a special walk around the bases post-game. Check in at the Bark at the Park check in station outside of Safeco Field. Bring a copy of your dog’s current vaccination forms. One dog per adult (18+). For info, email [email protected] or call (206) 346-4519. See article, this issue



27TH - 28THCOLT STARTING CHALLENGE Fri. & Sat. 6-9p. Flying M Stables Indoor Arena, 3922 113th Ave SW, Olympia. Contestants compete to gentle & ride horses using Natural Horsemanship methods. Bring your own chairs. Buy tickets online: www.coltstartingchallengeusa.com. For information: (808) 250-9949 or [email protected]

28THSPAY NEUTER ALL PETS (SNAP) ANNUAL PLANT SALE 9am until all plants are sold! Parking Lot at Joint Animal Services, 3120 Martin Way E., Olympia. Lots of beautiful plants at low prices! (360) 352-2510.


28TH - 30TH FAMILY SCIENCE WEEKEND AT THE SEATTLE AQUARIUM Hands-on activities, special talks & demonstrations to help the entire family discover science. www.seattleaquarium.org/aquarium-events

29TH BEYOND BARKING ANIMAL COMMUNICATION 1130a-430p. Natural Pet Pantry, Kirkland. A day of 25-minute animal communication sessions! Email [email protected] with your preferred time slot betw. 12p-5p. Cost is $45 per session & must be paid in advance. For more information: http://beyondbarking.com/events. See article, this issue

30TH CLOSE OUT PLANT & GARAGE SALE FOR FELINE FRIENDS 9-2p. Griffin School, Steamboat Island. (360) 866-1909.

JUNE 2ND SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP 6-7:30p. Seattle Animal Shelter conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W. Seattle. 206-386-7387 (PETS). www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/events-and-resources/pet-loss-support-group

4THMOTLEY ZOO ADOPTION EVENT 11a-3p. Redmond PetCo, 7215 170th Ave. NE. Facebook Event: www.facebook.com/events/1032318706815120/

CONCERN FOR ANIMALS ANNUAL GARAGE SALE! 8-5p. Rick’s Automotive, 3531 Pacific Ave SE, Olympia. Find treasures at great prices & all proceeds benefit CFA! www.concernforanimals.org/upcoming-events.php. See ad, this issue

WINE & WINGS FUNDRAISER FOR SARVEY ANIMAL RESCUE 1p. Northwest Cellars, Kirkland. Fundraiser to support Sarvey Animal Rescue: www.sarveywildlife.org. Event: www.northwestcellars.com/events.html

4TH & 5TH SEATTLE PET EXPO Sat 10a-6p, Sunday 11a-4p. Washington State Convention Center, 705 Pike St, Seattle. Free admission. Bring your pet! Make sure to check out the entertainment all day on the Pet Connection Magazine Stage! www.seattlepetexpo.com. See ad, this issue.

5TH POINT DEFIANCE ZOO GARDEN TOUR 10a-4p. Learn how the plants on the zoo grounds fit into the ecosystem & how plants & animals relate. Meet at the Pacific Rim Plaza, just inside the front gate. Tours free with admission or membership. For more information: www.pdza.org

6TH NWSAM LEVEL 100 SMALL ANIMAL MASSAGE PRACTICAL http://www.nwsam.com/schedule.html

POINT DEFIANCE ZOO “EXPLORE THE SHORE” 11:45a. Become a citizen scientist at Owen Beach. For more information: www.pdza.org.


10TH AHELP ANIMAL CAREGIVER SUPPORT CIRCLE 2-4p, Seattle Unity Church. www.ahelpproject.org/calendar

11TH SUMMER LOVIN’ FUNDRAISER AT NORTHWEST CELLARS 1-4p. 21+. $15/advance, $20/at door. Includes wine tasting & appetizers. Dogs welcome! Benefits Homeward Pet. www.northwestcellars.com/events.html

METRODOG PET FIRST AID CLASS K9 Fun Zone, 25 Nickerson St., Seattle. $149; for more information, email at [email protected]


MOTLEY ZOO ADOPTION EVENT 11a-3p. Lake City All the Best Pet Care, 8050 Lake City Way NE, Seattle

11TH - 12TH WORLD OCEAN WEEKEND Seattle Aquarium. Celebrate the world’s one big ocean & learn to be an ocean hero. Everyone, no matter where they live, can help keep the ocean clean & healthy. Participate in hands-on activities & special demonstrations. www.seattleaquarium.org/aquarium-events

12TH ANNUAL FURRY 5K 10a -1p. Seward Park, 5900 Lake WA Blvd. S. 17th annual dog-friendly race to raise money for the Seattle Animal Shelter’s Help the Animals Fund. For more info: www.seattleanimalshelter.org. See ad & article, this issue.


POINT DEFIANCE ZOO MEMBERS’ WILD NIGHT 6-9p. Get to know the zoo from the inside out! For more info: www.pdza.org

17TH DACHSHUNDS ON PARADE! Now in its 14th year, this event sees hundreds of guests from across the NW who want to show off their beloved Dachshunds. Includes Short Parade, Dachshund Races, Stupid Pet Tricks, & Costume Contest. Come early & enjoy breakfast wit the Dogs Pancake Feed, sponsored by the Rodeo City Kiwanis Club. Downtown Ellensburg www.dachshundsonparade.com

17TH - 20TH 2016 PACIFIC NORTHWEST K9 SYMPOSIUM Friendly Grove Resort & Spa For Dogs. Develop/master skills of all levels. For more information: www.friendlygrove.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=79&Itemid=107

18TH GREYHOUND PETS OF AMERICA GREATER NORTHWEST MEET & GREET 9a-2p. Puyallup Farmer’s Market – Pioneer Park, Meridian & Pioneer


CHEW RESCUE DOG ADOPTION EVENT 11a-2p. Cookies Pet Corner & Wash, 1010 Bethel Ave., Port Orchard


19TH FREMONT FAIR DOG PARADE 2:30p, Seattle. The dog parade parallels its human counterpart, marching through the Fair Grounds featuring our furry friends of all shapes & sizes. Registration at 35th Avenue & Phinney, behind the big purple slide, from 11a-1:30p. $10 registration fee benefits COLA, Citizens for Off Leash Areas (www.seattlecola.org) & is required per dog family. www.fremontfair.com/entertainment.html

POINT DEFIANCE ZOO HALF-PRICE DADS’ DAY 930a-6p. All dads receive half off general admission! Bring your dad to the zoo for a wild time! For more information: www.pdza.org

21ST POINT DEFIANCE ZOO HALF PRICE FOR SENIORS & PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES 930a-6p. See www.pdza.org for more information.

22ND POINT DEFIANCE ZOO “EXPLORE THE SHORE” 12:15p. Become a citizen scientist at Owen Beach. For more info: www.pdza.org

23RD SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP 6-7:30p. Seattle Animal Shelter conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W. Seattle. 206-386-7387 (PETS). www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/events-and-resources/pet-loss-support-group


WHINE & CHEESE FUNDRAISER FOR AARF 6-10p. Glen Acres Golf & Country Club, 1000 S. 112th St., Seattle. www.facebook.com/events/620801044749137

25TH PUGET SOUND PET FOOD BANK 10a. 1601 6th Ave., Tacoma. The Puget Sound Pet Food Bank provides food, treats, & supplies for pets in need.

MOTLEY ZOO ADOPTION EVENT 11a-3p. Redmond All the Best Pet Care, 17875 Redmond Way. Facebook Event: www.facebook.com/events/587169978101597

25TH – 26TH SLUGFEST AT NORTHWEST TREK One of the zaniest weekends of the year at NW Trek! Games, crafts, & presentations. www.nwtrek.org/events?cid=965

CAPITOL HILL PRIDE FESTIVAL DOGGIE DRAG COSTUME CONTEST! 11a-1p, Registration 1-2pm, Judging & Awards at Main Stage. $5 donation benefits Seattle Humane Pet Project, Helping Clients with AIDS. www.capitolhillpridefestival.info

28TH - 29TH ADOPT-A-PET YARD SALE Sat 8-3, Sun 9-3. Adopt-A-Pet, 940 E. Jensen Rd, Shelton. Donated items accepted during kennel hours on M, W, F. www.facebook.com/events/1247402508609025


Western Washington’s MOST Comprehensive Pet Events Calendar! KEEP UP TO DATE ON NEW EVENTS! WWW.PETCONNECTIONMAGAZINE.COM


Sheepdog Championship TrialFiber Arts Festival | Local Spirits & Fare

JUNE 9–12, 2016

Paid for in part by the American Lamb Board

Misty Isle Farms | Dawn to Dusk | Admission $10, Kids 10 and under free

Tickets and Shuttle Info

VashonSheepdogClassic.com Vashon Sheepdog Classic @sheepdogclassic

Design: www.jennariggs.com • Photos: ©Linda Crayton, ©Shane Eitner, ©Kim Ferrell

Pandora’sBox

where everyone’s family.

wilcostores.comFind A Store Near You:

PREMIUM PET FOOD • PROFESSIONAL GROOM SHOPS • PET CARE SUPPLIES

•TOYS, TREATS & TRAINING AIDS

Proceeds Benefit Vashon Island Youth Programs


JUNE 9–12, 2016






Pandora’sBox







JUNE 9–12, 2016






Pandora’sBox







JUNE 9–12, 2016






Pandora’sBox






My husband and I moved to Vashon Island in 1992. We had been living in Seattle for several years and wanted to live in a more rural setting and build our own home. While building our home we were living in our barn and a 1968 Airstream trailer. We both loved dogs and were sharing our household at the time with a beagle. Now, beagles are very sweet dogs – if you are able to supervise them 24 hours a day. This dog provided way too many adventures across Alaska and in urban Seattle. We decided that we really wanted a dog that would love us more than the garbage can and, given the rough living quarters we were in, we opted to get a puppy.

It did not take long to decide on herding dogs; devoted, hardworking, and obedient. We started with a wonderful Australian Shepherd, Mick that we will never forget. Over the course of the next few years we would have three ‘Aussies.” I started watching the sheepdog trial on Vashon around 2002. I decided to try herding with one of my Aussies, Nell. It was fun, but while learning about herding and watching others I was drawn to the Border Collie. I love their working style, speed, and focus. I was impressed with the Border Collie handling community: dedicated to maintaining the working attributes of the breed and responsible care of the livestock being herded.

I took the plunge and got my first Border Collie, Shep, in 2008. It has been both rewarding and humbling to learn about sheep herding and the breed. I have also been able to meet many fascinating handler/dog teams. While attending a trial this past winter in Caldwell, Idaho, I had the chance to meet Carol Clawson.

Carol is the current president of the United States Border Collie Handlers Association or USBCHA. This is the national association that sanctions the trials across the country every year, culminating in a national final that handler/dog teams must qualify for.

Carol has had Border Collies her whole life, but is relatively new to sheep herding. For most of her life she has had Border Collies as pets; then she tried agility, a course of jumps, tunnels, ramps and a see saw. While out with a friend at a farm near Salt Lake City, Utah she got to see what the Border Collie is really made for: gathering. A Border Collie can do a wide run, several hundred yards up a field, dropping behind the sheep, picking them up smartly, and bringing them straight back down the field to the handler. Carol was instantly hooked. Her first herding Border Collie was named Flip, and she competed in her first trial in 2006. Flip is still living with Carol, but is now retired. She has had many herding dogs since. She competed in her first national finals in 2014, the year she was elected president of the USBCHA; she competed again in 2015, and is working on qualifying for this year’s finals.

Carol was a bit surprised when other handlers approached her about becoming the USBCHA president, referring to herself as “not a big hat” in the Border Collie sheep herding world. But like many sheepdog handlers, Carol is a woman with many talents. Carol is also an attorney and has worked as a litigator, solicitor general of the state of Utah, and an administrative law judge. Although she is semi-retired now, she still works part time as a mediator and arbitrator. Her legal background has helped the association update its by-laws and her skills as a mediator have fostered a constructive dialog about trial practices and procedures. When talking with Carol you can tell just how much she loves and respects her dogs. She laughs when she tells you about a t-shirt her sister in law gave her that says, “I was normal three dogs ago”.

Carol will be coming to the Vashon Sheepdog Classic to compete with her dogs, Timp and Keta. Participating dog and handler teams are expected from all over the western United States. Most of the dogs in the competition will be Border Collies, due to the long outrun and tough working conditions, but other breeds such as Kelpies and Australian Shepherds may be there as well.

Regardless of the breed or the dog’s background, the expectation will be the same: the dog is to handle the sheep in a precise and efficient manner. The course at Misty Isle is based on the classic international course used throughout the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Europe.

The Vashon Sheepdog Classic encompasses a number of fun activities and local food and drink. In addition to the trial, visitors can enjoy a fiber arts village with free workshops and demonstrations including sheep shearing and a children’s tent with felting classes and other activities.

The event takes place dawn to dusk Thursday through Sunday, June 9-12. Tickets are available at Brown Paper tickets or on site, general admission $10, kids 10 and under free.

A shuttle from the Vashon north end ferry dock will run Saturday and Sunday for $5 round trip.

For more information visit www.vashonsheepdogclassic.com

A bit of history: Border Collies descended from the domesticated regional collies of the British Isles. Collie in old Celtic is believed to mean “useful.” The term “Border Collie” refers to the Anglo-Scotish border, and was first used by the International Sheep Dog Society in the UK in 1915 to distinguish these dogs from other collies.

The Border Collie traces back to a dog known as Old Hemp, who lived in Northumberland from 1893 to 1901. He was a quiet, powerful dog, and the sheep responded well to him. He was widely used as a stud dog, and Old Hemp’s style became the working style of the Border Collie we still use today.

Christie True lives on Maury Island and has been a member of the board of the Vashon Sheepdog Classic since 2010.

Vashon Sheepdog ClassicThe Trials at Misty Isle

Christie True

Carol Clawson & Tell


Do you have an animal-related business?

Do you need someone who “gets” it?

With over 20 years of active involvement in the animal world, Carmen offers you personal experience and understanding of the unique traits of your business coupled with over 17 years of legal experience serving your business and personal planning needs.

· Contracts (boarding, daycare, grooming, training, adoption/foster, breeder) · Business-to-business contracts· Formation of animal-related businesses · Purchase and sale of animal-related businesses· Zoning, agriculture & other real estate issues· HR and employee policies and contracts· Succession & Estate planning and probate

Carmen Rowe, Attorney at Law Gryphon Law Group

[email protected]

Seattle, Olympia, & Centralia/Chehalis

Veterinarian Dr. Jennifer Conrad started the Paw Project as a mission of humane education – and in the 16 years since the project began, she has seen a paradigm shift in how people view declawing.

“This is a grassroots movement that so many people care about,” Dr. Conrad explained. “Everyone is doing their small part to spread the word and educate people about declawing. Fifth graders are educating their parents about why they should choose not to declaw and young veterinary students are now debating this, as well.”

In 2000, when the Paw Project was started, many people were unfamiliar with declawing procedures – or why they might be detrimental to cats. “Now, in 2016, they know that declawing can cause lasting issues for cats. We’re preventing these procedures by providing alternatives and education, and that’s my joy.”

Since she created the Paw Project, Conrad has been contemplating happiness and wellbeing. “I’m happiest when one of my patients isn’t declawed and won’t be declawed in the future. I want all cats to have the best possible life,” she said, “and I want to help people provide that for them.”

Dr. Conrad sees the Paw Project as an ambassador of humane education. In many regions of the United States, declawing is a standard procedure; in some states, as many as 80% of the cats are declawed. Current studies estimate that 25% of all American cats are currently declawed.

“People don’t think that it’s an amputation,” Conrad said. “Cats who have been declawed often have a lifetime of pain and infections afterward – and they can even lose their paws after the procedure has been done.”

In many countries, including the Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Sweden, Finland, Australia, and the United Kingdom, the procedure is illegal. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) considers declawing to be a “last resort,” but with some areas seeing a declawing rate of 80%, Conrad hopes that the guidelines can be revised to reflect the seriousness of the procedure.

“No one would remove a puppy’s teeth because she was chewing

on slippers – you’d try to find the reason behind the behavior and then help resolve it,” she explained. “Similarly, we should reconsider surgically amputating the bones on a cat’s toes because they’re scratching the couch.”

Conrad is working with legislators to provide more legal protection for feline family members. “Legislators work with us so much because they agree with our mission,” she stated. “Legislation will brew, and brew, and brew, and then big change happens in a jump.”

“Linda Rosenthal is working to ban declawing in the state of New York,” she stated. “It’s important to pass this legislation, and in the interim, we’re hoping to educate many more people.”

Conrad currently has a team of over 30 vets across the US and Canada, and countless supporters, both human and feline. In the greater Seattle area, spokes cats for anti-declawing legislation include Oskar and Klaus, Henri le Chat Noir, and Percy the Persian.

Declawing proponents state that declawed cats are safer for those who are immunocompromised, including people living with HIV and AIDS, but Conrad notes that health professionals disagree with this.

“In their joint position paper on living with HIV, the Center For Disease Control, National Institute of Health, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America all said that declawing the cat is not advised,” Conrad stated. “Declawing supporters say that the procedure keeps cats in homes, but Petfinder has hundreds, if not thousands, of cats who are declawed who have lost their homes. People will surrender their cats because they aren’t using their litter boxes, but they aren’t using their litter boxes because their paws hurt. Ultimately, declawing cats doesn’t save their lives.”

She added: “We should use empathy to guide us. Compassion has a distance to it, but when you focus through the eyes of empathy, it’s altogether different.”

To learn more about the Paw Project, visit their website at www.pawproject.org.

Grassroots Heroes Inspire a Paradigm Shift For Feline Health The Paw Project

Police dogs have a very important, and sometimes very demanding job. Even before they begin training, police dogs go through a vigorous selection process. One important test is a pre-employment medical physical. Like a human, a dog doesn’t become an officer until getting thoroughly checked out.

In addition to staying active, avoiding injuries, maintaining a healthy weight and a healthy diet, something I find very important is simply knowing what’s normal for your dog or partner. A benefit of working so closely with them and spending so much time together is we’re observing their behavior all the time. For example, we may catch a glimpse of a limp during the shift, or we may notice the dog may be sitting or laying a little awkward or different. We may see or find a sign of an injury before it’s too obvious. We also usually have set meal times, and we know and observe their elimination habits all the time. Something may seem off and draw our attention, then we can keep an eye on it that much more closely.

When it comes to mental health, we want to keep the dog interested in work and engaged in our day-to-day activities. If we play the same game over and over with the dog, they can get bored and less excited. Changing up the game, whether it’s work training or scenarios, or even just playing with balls or toys, and sometimes even surprising the dog, helps keeps them excited and happy.

TherapiesA main goal is to keep our partners injury-free. Again, having a solid foundation and healthy dog to begin is very important. When injuries arise, we’re open to using a variety of approaches to maintain their health. One option we have used is WellSprings-K9 in West Seattle.

K9 Mia has gone to WellSprings for warm water therapies. Sheila Wells from WellSprings gets into the pool with Mia, where the water jets are moving at 10 miles per hour. The exercise itself is of benefit to Mia, who was in need of weight loss and conditioning for her new career. Water therapy is a low impact form of exercise, preventing any injuries and easing her joints and muscles into a new way of life. Once well worn out, about 10-15 minutes in, Sheila begins massage therapy within the pool. Mia absolutely loves it and is a very willing participant. Sheila is able to assess the weaknesses in Mia’s physique and relieve tight

muscles. Range of motion exercises and stretching round out the therapy. Then, more jet-resisted swim!

At the end of each session Sheila has provided useful exercises to encourage Mia to lean into her weaknesses (one side of her body seems to be weaker than the other, with corresponding tightness in the opposite side) in order to restore balance. The sessions last about an hour and a half and we have one planned a week for the next few months.

TrainingOnce a police dog is in service, there’s an industry guideline that we train with our dogs about one hour per shift worked. While this is primarily to keep them proficient with their police duties, we also need to keep the dogs interested in doing their job. They have amazing work ethics, but if you don’t challenge them, they can become bored. A busy and even a tired dog is usually a happy dog. And of course, they have a phenomenal “can-do” attitude. If you do not know your dog’s behavior and what is normal, it’s harder to detect when they are fatigued physically or mentally. And you as the human partner need to know when the dog needs a break.

Off dutyPolice dogs have a variety of down time activities, and it varies from dog to dog. Some dogs really enjoy and benefit from some “alone time” at home. A few hours secluded from people and stimulation can be important for some dogs to unwind and relax. Some dogs have more drive and are more enthusiastic and active if they have some down time at home. However, some end up being not much different than your family dog at home, enjoying a big bed on the floor in the bedroom, walks and ball time, and sleep time in front of the TV or fireplace. Just like people, all dogs are different, and many working dogs end up being part of the family just like your pet.

EXCLUSIVELY FOR


TM

Paw & Order: Keeping Police K9s Healthy Officer Mark Wong

Local, Fresh Food

Find us in independent stores, at Natural Pet Pantry, or through home delivery

Raw & home cooked

Organic veggies & the best meats available

Free consultations

Located in Seattle & Kirkland(425) 739-4738 • naturalpetpantry.com


Honor your best pal with professional portraits.

[email protected] • 206-724-2177 • laragrauer.com

“The process couldn’t have been easier, and we couldn’t have been happier with the result!” - Jeff and Stacey

Puget Sound Pet Business Network

Celebrate Life: Engraved Rock, Slate and Glass for Memorials, Awards, Love, Faith, Humor Celebrations, Business and Encouragement Use code PCM414 for 15% Discount www.solidrockmemorials.com

Dmarie’s Doggie Boutique Exclusively for the little dog in your life….

*Small Dog Boutique *Grooming *Boarding * Playgroups & Events By Appointment Only 206.280.3633

www.dmariesboutique.com


*Small Dog Boutique *Grooming *Boarding * Playgroups & Events

By Appointment Only 206.280.3633

























9639 Firdale Ave, B Edmonds, WA

206-367-4045 www.Dmariesboutique.com

Designer Apparel & Accessories Blankets & Slumber Pouches

Playgroups & Parties

In-Home Care • Acupuncture • Wellness http://vet.lunarpoodle.com • (425) 395-4815

Cynthia Glover, DVM, MS New Client Special: Mention this ad for a free examination in 2014

(travel and other fees may apply)

, CVA



(travel and other fees may apply)



(travel and other fees may apply) 2015

In-Home Care • Acupuncture • Wellness

http://vet.lunarpoodle.com • (425) 395-4815 http://www.facebook.com/lunarpoodlevet

Cynthia Glover, DVM, MS, CVA New Client Special: Mention this ad for $30 off your first service

(expires March 31, 2016)

In-Home Care • Acupuncture • Wellness

http://vet.lunarpoodle.com • (425) 395-4815 http://www.facebook.com/lunarpoodlevet

Cynthia Glover, DVM, MS, CVA Mention this ad for $30 off your first exam (expires 12/31/16)

BUSINESSES PROVIDING SERVICES & INFORMATION FOR YOUR PET NEEDS

www.pugetsoundpetbusinessnetwork.com [email protected]

Annie’s Walk & TalkTrusted Dog Walker & Pet Sitter

1st 1/2 hour dog walk FREEServing Shoreline, Edmonds, Woodway & Lake Forest Park

www.annieswalkandtalkdoggies.com206.719.8119

Karen Cleveland, Animal Communication Phone or in-home sessions for behavior, health, end-of-life, mediumship questions 206-715-4865 Classes, Pet-Parties, Pet Blessings KarenClevelandAndTheAnimals.com

They talk, I listen

20% off with code PC16

Dr. Brian Hare just might have the key to reading our dogs’ minds. Hare is the director of the Duke Canine Cognition Center (DCCC) and the founder of Dognition, a state-of-the-art tool to assess canine personality and intelligence. The DCCC studies canine psychology with the overall goal of understanding the strengths, breadth, and limitations of canine cognition. Dognition, which debuted in 2012, builds upon this research with a series of games that test your dog’s memory, personality, and learning style.

“You can’t deny the rich mental life of dogs,” Dr. Hare explained, “and they’re doing these amazing things. Through Dognition, you can understand just how their minds work.”

According to Hare, physical exercise, nutrition, and mental stimulation are all very important to a canine’s overall health. “It’s so important to challenge them mentally. Whether it’s exercising your dog, feeding them a healthy diet, or playing games like Dognition, you nourish their minds just as you do with their bodies.”

Hare finds that people are often surprised by the results of Dognition. “They’ll say, ‘I didn’t know their personality was like that’ and I’ve found that they’re universally surprised and exhilarated,” Hare said.

It’s important to focus on the relationship between cognitive capacities and individual personalities. “Dogs are individuals, and I created this program because there’s so much enthusiasm for understanding how

dogs interact and how they think. You can see their minds in action and understand their unique personalities.”

For Hare, pet health and wellness isn’t just about veterinary care, nutrition, or exercise – it’s the synthesis of these important components, combined with helping our animals have better mental health, as well.

“With proper nutrition and programs like Dognition, we can keep them both physically and mentally healthy – and focus on wellness for body and for mind.”

To learn more about Dr. Hare’s work, visit the Duke Canine Cognition Center’s website at https://evolutionaryanthropology.duke.edu/research/dogs or visit Dognition at www.dognition.com.

Canine Mental Health: Can Dognition Read Our Dogs’ Minds and Assess Their Personalities?

Unsung Heroes: A Dog Named Kitty Kitty stood patiently in the elevator at Swedish Hospital as a man in scrubs knelt down and pet her. As a therapy dog, Kitty was accustomed to comforting people, but this time was different. Four months later, at a Swedish Hospital Fundraiser, that man approached Kitty and her person, Laurie Hardman.

“You have no idea what petting your dog meant for me that day,” he told Hardman. “I had just lost a patient, and petting your dog gave me the ability to continue on with my day.”

“That,” Hardman recalled lovingly, “THAT was Kitty.”

Kitty the Portuguese Water Dog put in almost 19,000 hours as a therapy dog, visiting hospitals and therapy centers across the greater Puget Sound. Kitty was less than two weeks old when she met Hardman, and the two formed a partnership that spanned 14 years.

“When she was seven weeks old, I was blowing my harmonica. One of my other dogs, Rio, was a singer – to the harmonica. Kitty was the only puppy in her litter who looked around and went, ‘Wooooo, wooo.’” It was music to Hardman’s ears. But even more than her singing abilities, Kitty was famous for her prowess as a therapy dog.

“In addition to her sweet, calm temperament, she also had a super sweet expression,” Hardman explained. “She was people oriented, but loved any creature she encountered. She was gentle, and nothing fazed her.”

At the time, Kitty was one of three dogs in Hardman’s household, and getting Kitty coincided with her retirement from a state job due to the onset of a seizure disorder, which started with a six-minute grand mal.

“While I couldn’t return to work, I returned to visiting, and did so full-time with all three dogs. Kitty was the youngest, and got the most time; plus, she was just so easy to be with. She also began showing the ability to alert my seizures, which was also passed on to her daughter Pickles, now 12 1/2, and granddaughter Billie, 9.”

In 2012, it became apparent that Kitty could no longer visit. “She was showing signs of dementia, which became one of her major health issues toward the end. While always eager to go with me, and never saying ‘no’ to anybody who wanted to pet her, her eyes told me, ‘I want to be with you, but I’m tired.’ Not long after Kitty won the ‘Paws of Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap PAWS Spotlight on Community Hero Pets - Therapy Animal Category,’ as well as the ‘People’s Choice’ award, we hung up her visiting clothes.”

Very rarely in life, we’re fortunate enough to encounter a special soul who changes everything for us. For Hardman, Kitty was that soul.

“Part of Kitty’s legacy was to become mother to four litters of puppies, many of which went on to be outstanding therapy dogs – perhaps the most

wonderful legacy she could have left. I currently also have her 17-month-old great, great, great grandson, who began therapy visits when he was eight weeks old. He makes many visits now as Pickles has gone blind from her diabetes, and doesn’t visit anymore because of it.”

Kitty did many things in her life - she was in on the ground floor of Reading with Rover and she was a founding canine of a local non-profit organization. Her heart was huge, and her paw prints were essentially impossible to fill. It’s amazing to have a fourth generation dog visiting at locations where his great great-great-grandmother Kitty started the programs (Shorewood High School and NW Hospital Gero-Psych). Her legacy will live on in those programs as well.”

Hardman currently works with College Dogs, which she began in 2010.

“It has grown to work with all universities and colleges in the Seattle area,” she stated. “In 2015, from January to December alone, more than 5,000 students were seen during our College Dogs visits. We’re booked solidly two to three days per week throughout the school year. It’s an amazing program, and we hear incredible responses from the students we visit and from the staff who set up our visits. College Dogs has become so popular that we truly need as many more teams as we can get. Given the success of the program, I happily accept teams from any therapy organization.”

“Kitty was always able to ‘take whatever it took’ - not all dogs could handle lengthy visits; visits with profoundly mentally disabled/unpredictable populations; prison inmates; children using her as a pillow to read to her - she simply KNEW what was needed... and she did it.

“It broke my heart to retire her. My heart still isn’t fully recovered from knowing that she held on as long as she did, in spite of pancreatic and adrenal cancer (she was part of a research project, so her body was shipped to the University of Utah, and necropsied). I have tears in my eyes just thinking about her – that’s the impact she had.”

To learn more about College Dogs, visit their website at www.collegedogs.org.

Sketch by John Kreger


14655 Bel-Red Rd., Suite 102, Bellevue, WA 98007

Phone: (425)957-4700Email: [email protected]

Website: www.Dr-Gilbert.com

Now accepting great patients like you!

We are proud to offer our patients a warm, welcoming environment in which to receive their routine, preventive and cosmetic dental care.We have a therapy dog, a golden retriever named Chance, who provides comfort and reassurance fearful patients and children who are unsure of what dental care is all about.

New Patient Special Offer!Receive $50 - $100 Credit on

treatments over $300Not valid to prior services. Some restrictions

apply. Call for details!

425-697-6106 20115 44TH AVENUE WEST

LYNNWOOD, WA 98036VCAvsc.com

VCA Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle

425-697-6106

VCA VETERINARY SPECIALTY CENTER OF SEATTLE SERVICES

• Cardiology

• 24-Hour Critical Care & Emergency

• Dermatology

• Internal Medicine

• Integrative Medicine

• Neurology

• Radiology

• Surgery

It’s the middle of the night, your pet’s not acting right... and you’re worried. Our team at VCA VSC understands how you feel.

Our Emergency Department is available for you 24 hours- a-day, 7 days-a-week, 365 days-a-year for emergencies.

VCA Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle

PASSION. COMMITMENT. CRITICAL CARE.

24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICES

Long before her column became THE go-to place for news and information on dogs worldwide, Washington resident Penny Eims was an aspiring writer looking for an outlet. In 2008, Penny applied to be a writer for a new media platform called Examiner.com. Her column, the National Dog News Examiner, started out small, but eight years and hundreds of millions of views later, she’s become a household name among animal rescuers.

“I’m passionate about dogs,” Penny said. “At first, my family laughed at me for writing these stories – they said, ‘What could you possibly do with this little column?’” But then the stories in her “little column” began to go viral – and lives began to be saved. Dogs like Tina P., who spent 10 years in boarding; Daisy, who waited for two years in a kennel after her original adopter bailed out; and Nemo, an elderly dog who was left behind when his owners moved. In 2010, she also created the Facebook page National Dog News Examiner, which has more than 550,000 likes as of this writing.

While Penny’s stories have been the catalyst behind thousands of rescues, the past six months have been

particularly difficult for her. “It’s been horrific,” she said. Penny lost her father, cat, and beloved dog, Lily, who had been the face of the National Dog News Examiner, within a few months of each other. The trio of losses set her back, but she redoubled her efforts with her writing, focusing on those who needed her help the most. One of her powerful stories, shared widely across social media, often makes the difference between life and death for shelter animals. And many of Penny’s favorite stories are about special needs dogs or animals who had to wait for years before they were rescued. One

of her all-time favorite stories was “I am a dog, not a thing.”

“This was my personal editorial,” she said. “It had a life of its own because it’s from the heart.” The powerful article concluded: “I am a dog. I want to give and receive love. I want to live. I am not a thing. I am not a piece of property. Please do not discard me. Please treat me with kindness, love and respect. I promise to repay you with unconditional love for as long as I live.”

The story touched animal lovers worldwide. One reader wrote, “One of the best things I have read in my life.” Another wrote: “I am a Soldier deployed in Afghanistan and can’t

wait to get home to adopt a new pet…The letter brought me to tears and that is not something I do easily. Thank you for sharing it…”

Thank you, Penny, for changing new media as we know it – and saving so many lives along the way. To read more from the National Dog News Examiner, Visit Penny’s column at www.examiner.com/dogs-in-national/penny-eims and click “subscribe.” And to read “I am a dog, not a thing”, in its entirety, go to www.examiner.com/article/i-am-a-dog-not-a-thing.

Penny and her beloved Lily

Connections: Penny Eims, The ExaminerPhoto by Julie Austin

I hope someone remembers to throw the ball for Baker after I’m gone. Jordan OlerudBaker loves to play ball. He can’t get enough of fetching. He’ll return the ball to the throwing machine and happily prance in place as he pleads with his gorgeous dark eyes for me to push the “throw” button once again. He is hard to resist! This can go on for quite some time, but Baker will rarely decide for himself that he’s had enough. I know from past play times that he will eventually get so overheated that he will pant heavily, and he will tire out his legs so much that he will limp for the rest of the day.

Baker is my faithful service dog. He’s always there for me, and he takes his job very seriously. The two things that make him the happiest are working for me, and playing ball. As his person, it is my pleasure and my responsibility to take care of him. Sometimes that means saying, “That’s enough, Baker” even when he doesn’t realize that he has had enough fetch time. He’ll look at me with those disappointed eyes, let out a heavy sigh, and lay down at my feet with the ball in his mouth, just in case I change my mind! He may not understand why I won’t let him keep chasing that ball, but I think he knows that I love him and want the very best for him.

I just got out of the hospital after a long three-week stay. I was so weak that I slept much of that time. When I was awake, though, Baker was always on my mind. What was he thinking about being away from me for so long? Did he think I had deserted him? We are always together. A separation like this had never happened before. I worried that he must be very unhappy to have no work to do for me. Was anyone throwing the ball for him every day? The hospitalization was very hard, and I wanted to go home to be with Baker, to go ride horses at Little Bit, to travel with my family and to see my friends.

I have prayed to the Lord who created me to heal my body so I can do all of the things I once did. Like Baker, I have run to my Master over and over with a trusting twinkle in my eye…and so often He has said “Yes! I will give you another year, another week, another day to enjoy the blessings I have for you.” This time is different, though. My body is weak and I’m very tired. I’m limping along like Baker after too many fetches. I don’t always understand why things happen like they do, but one thing I am sure of is this: the Lord who created me absolutely adores

me, like I do Baker. He wants the very best for me, and I trust Him even when I don’t understand. I may sigh heavily and lay at His feet, but I am content knowing that it is His pleasure and His responsibility to take the very best care of me. Whether that means Him saying, “Yes” to more time here on this earth, or saying, “That’s enough,” and bringing me to my real home that is with Jesus in heaven, I am at peace. I just hope that someone remembers to throw to Baker every day when it is time for me to go home to Jesus!

Publisher’s Note: Jordan Olerud has been very excited to write an ongoing column in Pet Connection Magazine. Shortly before we received this piece from her, we were informed that her health had taken a turn for the worse. Jordan had been told that she was dying before she wrote this and she wanted to make sure that it was included in this issue. Days before we went to press, we received word that she was rallying; those who know her said that it was truly a miracle. Please join us in sending warmth, love, and well wishes to the Olerud Family and to Team Jordan. It is an honor to include her article in our magazine.

The mental and emotional health of our animal companions is as important as their physical and nutritional health. While most of us are in tune and practiced with our animals’ physical and nutritional needs or ailments, we probably need to slow down and check in regarding their mental and emotional wellbeing. Knowing that animals experience a full range of emotions, we can be mindful of the signs when they slip into grief over the loss of a loved one or depression over an ongoing illness. Maybe you sense their loss of joy due to an aging body or their shame when they’ve had an accident in the house because of a senior moment. Most of you have an intuitive sense when your animal friend isn’t feeling “right” or when they’re out of balance. It could be as simple as noticing fatigue, a change in pattern, or that they no longer smile. (Of course, this doesn’t mean the literal smile; it’s the tail wag, or the purr at your leg, or the whinny upon visiting, or the bleat for a treat). It’s you picking up on a behavior or pattern that was and no longer is. Trust yourself if you sense they are “not themselves” and then ask them: “Are you feeling sad? Are you hurting?” Feel into a “yes” or “no” reply and trust the answer you get. What’s critical is that you turn on your intuitive sensing and turn off thinking so that you can receive a reply from them. Starting with questions that lead to yes or no answers is easiest for us. Make notes if you need, and write down what you get. Should you have a friend, family member or animal communicator ask the same questions, you can cross check your answers. This is also a good way to begin trusting what intuitive information you receive is accurate. Once you have validation, you then have options regarding the best way to help them shift out of a less desirable emotional state and into wellness. The options are wide-ranging, but I find working with their senses really helps: Think eyes, nose, mouth, physical body and energy body.


Howlin’ Coyote RanchFull care boarding

Indoor arena Large round pen

Roomy paddocks w/ sheltersPasture turnout

Heated wash rackIndividual tack lockers

Free trailer parking

(509) 306-0265 Ellensburg, WA [email protected]

Call Jennifer Downing for

current rates and availability.

The EvoAngel tells the stirring story of a naturally induced, latent genetic mutant, along with her daughter and granddaughter, who become the unwitting targets of paparazzi, government, faith-healing believers, angel fanatics, and greedy doctors (these terms are never mutually exclusive). The south Puget Sound setting provides the reader with enriching descriptions, as

only intimate native knowledge of our local area induces. Aided by her husband, his colleagues, and an NSA researcher, they battle against the constant pressure of being exposed, exploited, and exhibited to a gawking world You could get caught up in how “sciencey” certain sections are, but they are fascinatingly accurate, and construct a believable DNA-triggered scenario where the growth of bird feathers in humans, triggered by an enzyme, becomes entirely plausible. The canine hero arrives late to the action, but has an important job to accomplish before the story concludes.

I was able to connect with local author, Ellen King Rice, a former wildlife biologist and Pacific NW native. Ellen currently lives in the Olympia area with her husband and beloved golden retriever, Newton. When Newton isn’t assisting her with garden pastimes, he hits the rugged trials of the Olympics and Cascades with his two-legged dad. It is the lush biodiversity of these and surrounding areas that inspired Ellen’s setting and knowledge for The EvoAngel.

Ellen shared with me the great fun she experienced writing about environmental triggers of our DNA for her book and the joy of connecting with local artist, Duncan Sheffels, for the 18 pen and ink drawings of local fungi. “I think Duncan did an amazing job and truly captured the charm of local mushrooms,” Ellen said. “His art adds a great deal to the experience of the book.”

Ellen enjoys sharing the sciences behind her story and speaking to groups about evolutionary development and epigenetics. Readers can contact her at [email protected] if they would like her to visit their club or organization.

The EvoAngel is available locally at Orca Books and online via Amazon.

Horse Health: The Art & Science of a Farrier

Smoke and steam rise off of the red-hot horseshoe as Roland Lesta seats it against the horse’s hoof.

“This helps create a full contact union between the shoe and the hoof,” he explains.

The horse, a stunning buckskin named Dakota, looks at Roland as he speaks. It’s clear that he’s fond of his farrier. Roland, who could easily be a guest host for Mike Rowe on “Dirty Jobs,” smiles back. In an age where people are increasingly focusing on the newest technological breakthroughs, Roland uses equal parts art and science to perfect an age-old tradition: farriering. There’s no truer statement in horsemanship than “no hoof, no horse,” and for a quarter of a century, Roland’s Farrier Service has ensured that horses in Snohomish and King Counties are healthy and happy – from the ground up.

As he holds Dakota’s left hind leg, he points to the horse’s frog at the center of the hoof. “The tip of the frog is like your north star,” he said, “it’s attached directly below the coffin bone and never changes in position. That’s your best reference point to center and balance a hoof.”

Farrier work began in the Iron Age and many of the tools of the trade, including “clinchers,” “nippers,” and the “rasp,” reflect the profession’s storied history. But when these tools are wielded masterfully, farriering is brought into the modern age. Roland, who graduated from farrier school in Walla Walla in 1990, has had some of his clients for 20 years or more – a testament both to his talent and to the importance of having a reliable farrier.

“I knew some of my clients before they were married, and then I see their kids go off to college,” he said. “I know these families – they want the best for their animals. I’m happy to help them have that.”

Horses can have a wide range of hoof issues and Roland frequently works with veterinarians to trouble shoot difficult cases. “Horses see their farrier more often than they typically see their vet; I usually see each horse every six to eight weeks, he said. “I like working on

bringing neglected hooves back to good health; the body wants to be healthy, so I just give it a nudge in the right direction.”

While farriering isn’t a regulated p r o f e s s i o n , Roland is certified by the American Farriers Association. “Most people won’t ask if their farrier is certified – a lot of business is by word of mouth. You do a good job, and people will recognize it.”

Roland trims a piece off one of Dakota’s hooves and it curls around his hand. “If a horse has hoof or leg issues, it becomes systemic to their whole attitude. And you need to start young – you can address lots of hoof issues when they’re younger, or they’ll compensate in other ways. It’s similar to the dentist – kids don’t want to go, but it’s important to have routine care.”

Horse’s hooves can tell much about their past health. “You’ll see changes in their growth rings, like fever rings if a horse gets sick,” he explained. “Nutrition, different feed, environmental changes, stress, sickness – these will all show in their feet. And it won’t just be in one foot – all four will have rings or indentations.”

While Roland’s Farrier Service primarily serves Snohomish and North King Counties, he will travel outside of this territory if there are enough horses to work on. If you’re looking for exceptional hoof care in these areas, call or text Roland Lesta at (425) 346-6353.

Photo by Julie Austin

Our Animals’ Mental and Emotional HealthRachael L. Millikan, Beyond Barking Animal Communication

A few tips and tricks to help include:~ Talk! Sometimes, like us, simply sharing a feeling can help lighten the load. Think about how you feel when you’re able to discuss with a friend what a hard time you’re having after a loss. They feel the same. Just talking with them, asking questions, and sharing the feeling of understanding can help.~ Move! Movement is key. The body is meant to be in motion, so a walk to a different place than they are accustomed to, some time in the sun (yes, our animal friends get depressed from days on end of rain), or just getting out of their usual space and physical change helps. Movement is stimulating and often changes their emotional state.~ A new toy, a new high-value treat, or a new friend are all possible options too.~ Give them a new job.~ Teach them a new trick.You can couple the above suggestions for a more rapid shift. Also remember there are lots of alternative healing tools are available. Some examples are: Reiki, crystal healing, flower remedies, acupuncture, massage, Tibetan singing bowls, and more. Just like us, we might respond really well to one modality, but we have to try in order to find it. If you’re struggling to determine what’s leading them to a negative emotional/mental state, it’s always a good idea to examine what’s happening with you. Often, our animals are our mirrors and will carry our emotions and mental states. Maybe it’s you who needs the shift!Rachael Millikan can be reached at (206) 441-9729 and faxed at (206) 443-8247. Learn more about her work at www.beyondbarking.com.

Book Review: EvoAngel Teri Reidlinger

EXCLUSIVELY FOR


TM


Rat Poison…. What you need to know

Jennifer Kissinger, DVM Animal Medical Center of Seattle

Specialty Animal Carewww.AnimalMedicalSpecialists.com

AnimalMedical Centerof Seattle

Tel: (206) 204-336614810 15th Ave NEShoreline, WA 98155

* Subject to consideration to other patients and pet owners.

Occasionally we need to keep pets overnight, or for a few days. But no one likes to be alone when sick or injured.

That’s why our unique open door visitor policy allows you to spend as much time with your pet as you need, when you need to.*

So join your doctor, talk to technicians, stay all day, or spend the night. Rest assured though, whatever you choose, we’ll always be there with our well known 24 hour compassionate and qualified care.

Of course, there are many other things that set us apart – to find out more, please call us – at anytime.

Keeping youtogether is what

sets us apart.

OPEN FOREMERGENCIES

Critical Care Internal Medicine

OncologySurgery

“I was taking care of a friend’s dog for the weekend when I noticed her gum was bleeding slightly. I didn’t think much of it at first, since she was chewing on a toy bone. I took the bone away, expecting the bleeding would stop on its own. Within just a few minutes, the bleeding was uncontrollable. I rushed her to the closest 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital, where rodenticide (rat poison) toxicity was diagnosed. She was successfully treated and is now fine. When I later spoke with my friend, he remembered her eating from an unknown box the week before, at a cabin. We now know what she ate – rat bait!”

There are many kinds of rodenticides on the market. In the past, the most common types were anticoagulant toxins, such as Brodifacoum, Diphacinone and Bromadiolone. These toxins lead to severe bleeding,many days after the toxin was ingested. These toxins cause bleeding by blocking Vitamin K recycling in the body. Vitamin K is necessary for blood clots to form. When blocked, clots can no longer form, leading to severe bleeding. This bleeding can be external and visible or it can be internal, which is not as obvious. Animals with internal bleeding become weak and have pale gum color. Bruising may also occur. If left untreated, affected animals can die very quickly, once bleeding starts. Anticoagulant toxins are the only rodenticides that have an antidote; the active form of Vitamin K, known as K1. As long as Vitamin K1 is given while the toxin is in the body, usually for 4-6 weeks, then clotting can still occur, saving the animal’s life. Blood transfusions are often needed, to treat the blood loss that has already occurred.

Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) is another toxin that has been used as a rodenticide. Once ingested, Cholecalciferol is converted to calcitriol by the body. With high doses, this leads to a severely high calcium level. High blood calcium leads to kidney failure, heart abnormalities, tissue mineralization and death. There is no antidote for Cholecalciferol toxicity, only supportive care for the side effects.

If the affected animal does not die from the ingestion, supportive treatment is usually needed for weeks.

More recently, the neurotoxin Bromethalin is being used in pellet or block rodenticide products. This is not an anticoagulant toxin and it has no antidote. After ingestion, symptoms often don’t show for days or weeks. Symptoms include muscle tremors, drunk-like behavior, seizures, paralysis, and death. Only supportive care can be offered to affected animals. Many pets die from this toxicity.

As with any toxin ingestion, the sooner treatment is sought, the better. If you think your pet has ingested a rodenticide, it is very important to know the active ingredient of that product and not just the name or description of the product. Bring the packaging in with you. Bromethalin is not treated the same as Bromadiolone, yet both are used as rat poisons and the pellets may look identical.

Don’t try to get your pet to vomit at home, if you think he or she just ate a toxin. Trying to induce vomiting at home is often not effective and it wastes time, leading to more absorption of the toxin. Instead, immediately bring your pet and the product packaging to a 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital, or your local veterinarian. The first step of treatment is decontamination. This step tries to get the toxin out of the body, before it is absorbed. An injection is given to make your pet vomit repeatedly. Then, either the stomach is lavaged to flush out the remaining toxin, or activated charcoal is given orally to “bind” the toxin and help prevent absorption. A cathartic is also given, to promote diarrhea, to flush the toxin out that way. Patients with anticoagulant toxicities are started on Vitamin K1 and can often go home after decontamination measures. Patients with other toxicities are usually started on intravenous fluids to help dilute and flush the toxin from the body and to support blood flow to the affected organs. Hospitalization for monitoring and supportive care is usually necessary.

Not all rodenticide toxicity cases are the same. Pets who are treated immediately after ingestion are much more likely to survive, and later may not even show any signs of poisoning.

Saturday, May 21 Golden Paw Gala 2016, 6-9p. 1500 52nd Street SE, Everett. Annual fundraiser for the Animal Rescue Foundation of Everett, held at 1500 52nd Street SE in Everett, WA. Tickets: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2518361.

Molly Shannon is looking for love! This affectionate five-year-old Labrador retriever is fully trained and trustworthy to stay in your house all day. She seems to do well with other dogs and is currently happily living with a cat in her foster home, as well. Molly is spayed, microchipped, flea treated, dewormed, and current on her vaccines. She does well with dog-respectful older children and according to her foster family, she’s a great companion who loves to roll in the grass, chew on her toys, and go for short walks. Molly has issues with her knees and had surgery in the past, so she’s looking for a home where she can take it easy. Does Molly sound like the girl for you? If you’re interested in adopting this sweetheart, email Motley Zoo at [email protected].

signboards to the HUB North entrance. In the event of inclement weather, such as a tropical rainstorm, or if you’d prefer to be delivered in style, you’ll be comfortably shuttled in covered golf carts from the parking lot to the HUB.

MEOW will be hosting a scrumptious vegetarian buffet dinner and offering wine, beer, and a signature cocktail. For more details, including how to register, visit MEOW Cat Rescue’s website at www.meowcatrescue.org. See you there – Aloha!

Introducing Lady! Lady is a beautiful and luxuriously fluffy domestic medium hair tabby with white accents. She is 8 1/2 years old. Lady was originally found in a Pepsi box with her tiny siblings and mother. She was raised in a loving foster home and was adopted all those years ago. She was returned to MEOW because she was living in a multiple cat household and was being picked on. This was causing a lot of anxiety for this sweet girl, so her person thought it best if she could find a quieter and more peaceful home. We


www.jaustinphotography.com 425.802.3944

PHOTOGRAPHYANYPET

We capture you and your pet’s wild, wonderful, crazy, playful, unconditional love.

Nutritional Tips For Mind & Body Kymythy Schultze

The Transformative Power of Proper Nutrition I became interested in nutrition for animals after experiencing the improvement it made in my own body. I grew up with many health problems that eventually became so serious that I had to quit working due to my pain levels. I’d been to numerous doctors, none of which even brought up the idea of nutrition or food. I was very fortunate that the last doctor I went to before giving up had a passion for nutrition. He taught me how to eat a species-appropriate diet for humans, with a few tweaks for my specific health challenges. The difference it made in my health was nothing short of miraculous! Being the animal lover that I am, I knew that if food could have such a profound effect on my body, then it could also help my animal friends. It became my mission to learn all I could about animal nutrition.

Playing “Food Detective” To play detective with food sensitivities, first determine if the food is appropriate for the species. Each species is physiologically designed to thrive on specific foods. If you’re feeding an animal a food that’s not “natural” for the species, you could be creating problems. A food sensitivity or “allergy” is a symptom and not a disease in itself. Because every animal is an individual, symptoms manifest themselves in numerous ways. A reaction to food may show itself through symptoms in almost any area of the body.

Nutrition, Behavior, & Mental Health Many behavioral issues may be related to food. Numerous studies with both children and animals have shown that food additives, preservatives, and artificial colors and flavors can cause negative reactions in behavior and health. The better you feel, the better you behave! If you feel lousy, you’re apt to act grumpy and unhappy. It’s the same with our animal friends. I had one client many years ago with a Cocker Spaniel. The dog was snappy and unpredictable with their child. They enrolled the dog in obedience classes;

however, the dog did very poorly. They were at their wits’ end and considering euthanasia for the dog.

As a last resort, they read my book, “Natural Nutrition for Dogs and Cats,” and started feeding the dog according to the book’s recommendations. They first noticed that the dog started doing much better in his obedience classes. And the better behavior extended to their home and baby as well. The dog felt better and thus acted better. I would try a species-appropriate diet with any dog’s behavior problems before giving up on her. Just make sure you’re following a good plan and give it time. Ideally, you’d work with a qualified nutritionist that has experience with species-appropriate nutrition to assist with any special diet modifications that would provide additional help.

By feeding a species-appropriate diet of real foods, we allow our animals to live up to their potential. I encourage people to take a holistic approach, which is simply looking at the “whole picture” and everything that affects the animal’s life. It’s the least we can do for our beloved furry friends!

Kymythy is the author of the internationally best-selling books Natural Nutrition for Dogs and Cats: The Ultimate Diet, The Natural Nutrition No-Cook Book: Delicious Food for You and Your Pets! and her new book, Natural Nutrition for Cats: The Path to Purr-fect Health. She teaches classes in nutrition for humans, dogs, and cats, and has helped thousands of people and their animal friends live healthier, happier lives. Learn more about her work at her website: www.kymythy.com.

Save the date for MEOW Cat Rescue’s eleventh annual Fine Wines and Felines event – the MEOW Luau! Join us on Saturday, June 18th from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. for an amazing auction fundraiser for the animals. The HUB Ballroom on the University of Washington Campus (4001 NE Stevens Way) will be your “island” locale for the evening.

There’s ample free parking in the Padelford Garage (lots N18-N21.) Once you’ve parked, follow the signs in Padelford Garage to the escalators, stairs, or ramps and proceed toward Stevens Way. Follow the MEOW

couldn’t agree more.

Lady has the ‘feline-ality’ of a Sidekick: “Like all sidekicks, I’m just plain good company. I like attention, and I also like my solitude. I don’t go looking for trouble, but I’m no scaredy-cat, either. If you are looking for a steady companion to travel with you on the road of life, look no further!”

If you have questions about Lady or would like more information, please contact MEOW Cat Rescue at 425-822-6369.

MEOW Luau – Fine Wines and Felines!

Marilyn Hendrickson

Lady


www.chanceart.comAcrylic,

Watercolor, Gouache or Indian Ink

All major credit cards are accepted

Payment plans are available

Satisfaction is guaranteed(360)292-3129

Honor Your Best Friends and Create Lasting Memories with a Custom Pet Portrait

dogs at the park – and the people have so much fun, too!” said Mariners representative Laura Hale. “The majority of the Mariners players have a dog of their own, and during the event, you’ll see them playing with their dogs, too.”

This special event requires the purchase of one dog ticket and one human ticket; additional human tickets can be added, as well. The dog ticket, human ticket, and Mariners dog leash and a post-game walk the bases costs $40. Tickets are available to print after 10:10 a.m. on the day before the game and you’ll need to bring a copy of your dog’s vaccination forms to the game.

There will be “comfort stations” and water stations at various locations throughout the Bark at the Park areas. A waste disposal management team and professional veterinarians will also be on-site. For more information, visit www.seattle.mariners.mlb.com/sea/ticketing/barkinthepark.jsp.

Bring your dog to the Mariners’ third annual Bark at the Park events for an unforgettable day! The Bark at the Park debuted in 2014 and past events have been such a success that the 2016 renewal features three special days with your dog: Tuesday, May

24; Tuesday, August 9; and Tuesday, September 6.

“It’s so much fun to see how happy the people are to have their

Safeco field goes to the dogs!

Can the latest sports craze help your canine companion? Have you seen Kinesiotaping – or have you used taping yourself? In 2012, Kinesiotaping hit the international stage at the Berlin Olympics, when many of the athletes appeared sporting brightly colored bandages. Physical and occupational therapists around the nation were already using kinesiotaping with their human clients to help with injury recovery. Massage therapists use Kinesiotaping to help with muscle relaxation and joints support.

But can Kinesiotaping help your pet? What are the benefits to animals? EquiTape is the horse version of kinesiotaping, where performance and sports-related stresses are an everyday occurrence. But what about agility dogs or service dogs? What about older pets who have weakened muscles and joints?

Canine kinesiotaping is a new way for owners to provide effective support for their animals. How is this type of taping different from other types of bandages? Most bandages, such as ace bandages or vet wrap, are designed to compress tissues and restrict movement for protection. Kinesiotape does just the opposite: it’s a woven fabric with a medical grade adhesive designed to specifically stick to hair and lift the skin to create decompression, allowing for better movement of blood and fluids under the skin. Additionally, kinesiotape is designed to follow a joint or muscle through its full range of motion, thereby assisting movement rather than restricting it. Purposes are often therapeutic, but could also be focused on training, relaxing muscles under tension, assisting weaker muscles to maximize performance, and potentially preventing injury.

Who does kinesiotaping and how do you get kinesiotape for your

dog or cat or horse? Specialized training is highly recommended for the application of any kinesiology-based tape. For full benefit, a thorough understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the animal is critical for proper application. Massage therapists, veterinary technicians, veterinarians, and others in the animal health care industry are potential providers. Classes are also available for those who wish to provide kinesiotaping for their own animals, assuming they already have an appreciation of the anatomy and physiology. While online courses and videos are also

available, it’s important to realize that tools that can provide benefit are rarely free of risk. Without a proper understanding of methodology and supervised training, at best, the tape won’t provide the benefit it’s designed to, and at worst, it could cause harm.

If you think kinesiotape could be of value to your animal, consult a massage therapist in your area and find somebody who has EquiTape certification. EquiTape is specifically designed for the hair and skin of animals, unlike K-tape or other common brands, which are designed for people and not recommended for use on animals. In my own experience using tape, I have seen

great benefit for horses, dogs, and myself. Common situations that would benefit from taping include animals recovering from stifle or hip corrective surgery, older animals with arthritis or degenerative joint conditions or who simply don’t have the level of activity they once did, active animals, or animals in training. It would not be useful for skin conditions, wounds, or surgical sites. If the animal has a specific illness or injury, a veterinarian consult may be advised. Kinesiotape is not a medical device and should not be used as a substitute for veterinary care. For more information on kinesiotaping and training, visit www.nwsam.com or www.equitape.com.

Kinesiotaping for Animals Lola J. Michelin

The Real Housecats of Seattle Adoption Event

Saturday, May 14th11a–3pMud Bay, 522 Queen Anne Ave. N., Seattle.

Sassy, debonair, shy, cuddly, fluffy, sleek...come meet your purrfect housemate!

Please join Pawsitive Alliance and rescue groups from all around Puget Sound with their adoptable cats of all ages, sizes, colors, and personalities! All cats are spayed/neutered, up to date on vaccinations, and looking to be your permanent “plus-one” in your life!

Taijuan Walker and Nala

Felix Hernandez and Charlie


Getting certified in pet first aid is one of the best things I’ve done as a pet parent. The knowledge came in real handy that time my hubby and I hiked 6 miles into the woods to camp with our dogs and Chester got bit by so many mosquitoes that his face swelled like a balloon. After a moment of panic, I was able to gather my thoughts and take control of the situation. It also helped me with a dog I was sitting when he went stiff and was wobbling back and forth. Because of my training, I immediately knew he was having a seizure and knew what to do for him. I was able to take potentially bad situations and turn them into manageable situations because I knew pet first aid.

My top 5 reasons for taking a pet first aid training are:

1. It increases your confidence - Knowledge is power. Once you have been properly trained to handle pet emergencies, you’ll be more likely to feel like you can handle anything that might come up.

2. So you will stand out - Whether you are pet professional trying to stand out from your competition, a foster or volunteer at an animal shelter, or a pet parent that wants to be there for your own critters, taking a pet first aid class can make you stand out from the crowd. It will be a relief to your clients, co-workers, friends, and family because they know you have the skills to handle emergency situations that may come up.

3. You and your pet can be more adventurous - Sometimes adventures take you off the beaten path. Whether you are visiting a tiny seaside town or hiking 5 miles into the woods to camp, you may not always be near a veterinary clinic during open hours or even near one at all. With pet first aid training, you can assist your pet until you can get them expert medical attention.

4. You’ll learn to recognize symptoms before something goes wrong - Being educated about symptoms of shock, hypothermia, dehydration, etc. can help you catch the condition in the early stages before the situation reaches emergency levels.

5. It’s one of the most important, affordable investments you can make for your pet - Pet first aid classes are one of the least expensive investments you will make in your pet’s lifetime. For example, the super thorough, one-day pet first aid class offered by Metro Dog is $149 and the certification is good for 3 years. That’s only $50 a year, or less than 14 cents a day, for something that might save your pet’s life or save you money on vet bills.

Not only have I used my pet first aid training to help my pets, and those of my clients and friends, but I consider that it may have saved my life too in the case of Chester’s allergic reaction deep in the woods. By the time my Hubby and I got to camp, we were hungry and tired. Our first reaction once we saw Chester’s swelled face was to pack everything up and start hiking quickly back to the trailhead in the dark.

Pet First Aid Classes for

Professionals

Walks n Wags

Spoil your best friend today!

One Spoiled Dog Treat Company specializes in 100% all natural jerky treats. Our treats are made in the U.S. with ingredients sourced from the U.S. They have no additives, preservatives or filler and are corn, grain and soy free.

www.OneSpoiledDog.comTo find a retailer near you or to order online please visit:

15 Signs of Cancer in PetsLuminita Sarbu, PhD, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

Nobody wants to think that cancer may strike their beloved furry friend, but cancer is very common among domesticated animals. It especially affects older dogs and cats. It accounts for death in 50% of dogs over 10 years of age and 32% of cats over 10 years of age. Cancer can start in any part of the body and as a result, it can create many different signs of sickness. As pet owners, we are in the best position to notice abnormalities and act as early as possible. Just as in humans, early detection and treatment does make the difference!

It is important to realize that there is no single sign that is associated with cancer. Often the symptoms are vague and nonspecific, and we may be tempted to consider them signs of aging, until one day the sickness becomes serious. When something is “off,” tests are needed to further evaluate your pet and figure out what is causing the symptoms you are seeing.

Here are some of the warning signs that your pet may have cancer:

1. Lumps and bumps – any mass on or under the skin has the potential of being cancer.

2. Persistent limping – limping can be caused by several things, including injury to the joints/bones, arthritis or cancer (especially bone cancer).

3. Weight loss is very nonspecific and can be caused by a lot of diseases and aging, but may also be a sign of cancer.

4. Loss of appetite – hunger is a reflex function and, therefore, pets don’t stop eating without a reason. Cancer could be a cause of poor appetite.

5. Decreased activity – this is especially deceiving in older pets, where we can easily think that they are slowing down due to age.

6. Bad breath, drooling, difficulty eating or swallowing – these signs are common with oral or throat cancer, though dental disease can also be the culprit.

7. Vomiting or diarrhea – in cancer patients vomiting or diarrhea can be caused by many issues related to the presence of cancer in the digestive tract.

8. Changes in bowel habits such as straining to defecate or thinning/flattening of the feces could be a sign of cancer.

9. Changes in bladder habits such as smaller/interrupted urine stream, straining to urinate, taking a long time to void or

blood in the urine could be a sign of bladder cancer.

10. Respiratory problems such as heavy breathing, shortness of breath after mild exercise, change in bark/meow and cough could be a sign of cancer in the throat or lungs.

11. Unexplained bleeding or discharge from any body opening – bleeding from the nose, mouth, rectum or any other areas (without a trauma, such as a cut) could be caused by a tumor being present in that area.

12. Distension of the abdomen – while a pet may gain weight, selective enlargement of the abdomen suggests that there may be cancer present, adding volume

13. Sores that persist or grow – with appropriate treatment, sores should heal fairly fast. If a sore persists or gets worse, it could indicate cancer and should be evaluated with a biopsy.

14. Pale gums reflect poor circulation or a low blood supply, which may be caused by internal cancers bleeding within the body.

15. Unfortunately, sometimes we see no signs until the cancer is advanced. As our pets age, the risk of developing cancer increases. Routine evaluations performed by your veterinarian can detect early cancer. Just keep in mind that a physical examination and blood work can only detect some kinds of cancers. The silent killers are the ones that develop internally, and they can only be found if your veterinarian does advanced tests, such as chest radiographs and abdominal ultrasound. While not part of the standard annual evaluations, you can request to have them done as often as you wish. And the good news is that they are not invasive.

Nobody wants to think about cancer, but as our pets’ guardians, it is our duty to educate ourselves and act when we notice changes, even if they seem mild. Talk to your veterinarian about any abnormalities you notice in your pet’s body or behavior. We need to keep our eyes wide open when it comes to medical problems affecting our loved ones, pets or human.

Veterinary Oncology Center is located at 636 Shattuck Ave S in Renton. To learn more about Dr. Sarbu’s work, visit her website at www.helpingpetswithcancer.com.

5 Reasons You Should Get Certified in Pet First Aid


I know a bit about search and rescue, and I know that heading out into the woods when you can’t see, you are tired and hungry, and you are being pushed by your emotions, is a recipe for disaster. That’s how people get lost and die. My pet first aid training allowed me to take a step back, calmly assess the situation and know exactly what dose of Benadryl to give Chester. After a bit, the swelling started to go down and he started feeling better. We decided to stay put and everything worked out. Who knows what danger we might have put ourselves in if we had hurried out of there in a panic.

Jessica Rhae Williams is the author of an award winning blog – You Did What With Your Wiener? – about hiking and being active with Dachshunds and other small dogs. She also owns a social media consulting business – PetTalk Media – and works with local pet-focused companies like PetHub and Metro Dog Pet First Aid, as well as other pet-related companies across the U.S.

Vintage, bonded pair has waited a year for loveIt’s impossible to not fall in love with 12-year-old orange Buddha kitty Rusty and his BFF, 14-year-old gray tabby Tigger. These beautiful, charming brothers lived their entire lives together until their family left them behind when they moved. Rusty and Tigger were surrendered to a public shelter in November 2015; when they ran out of time there, Purrfect Pals Cat Rescue took them in. They’re currently in foster care and can’t wait to find their loving forever home.

Rusty is vocal, rambunctious, and likes LOTS of attention. He has a mild case of feline asthma and uses a twice-daily inhaler. Rusty can be adopted as a permanent foster and Purrfect Pals would provide his inhalers and vet visits related to his asthma. He would need to go to the shelter clinic in Arlington for that care.

Tigger is one frisky senior cat! Goofy and fun-loving, you may find Tigger drinking out of faucets or giving you a “head hug.” Tigger loves to PLAY and likes drinking out of a running bathroom faucet if allowed. He’s loving, sociable, and loves to give full body hugs and head bonks.

Rusty and Tigger want to spend the rest of their lives together. Tigger is declawed and both have been indoor-only their entire lives and need to stay that way. They have lived with children, but not dogs, and they make new friends easily. Want an introduction to these charming gentlemen? Please email Eva at [email protected].

The Feral Cat Spay/Neuter Project (FCSNP), which was created in 1997, has changed more than 100,000 lives since its inception – and it’s the first place that Jason Thompson visited when he moved to Seattle in 2006. He was hoping to apply for a job and stopped in their lobby, but no one realized he was there – they were all in the back performing surgeries. Thompson later began working at MEOW Cat Rescue, and after eight years, a position opened up at FCSNP.

“The Universe has things going on that we don’t know about,” he said with a laugh. “I’d worked with feral cats for a long time at MEOW and knew that FCSNP was passionate and dedicated to help end overpopulation. I wanted to focus my work more specifically on spay/neuter efforts, and I’m so happy they took a chance on me.”

Infused with Thompson’s experience and enthusiasm, the organization has focused on collaboration and breaking down the barriers to spay/neuter services. “Unaltered cats are the number one source of why cats come to shelters,” Thompson explained. “And up to 80 percent of the calls we got at MEOW were for litters of kittens from free-roaming cats.”

The FCSNP, which was founded by Dr. Christine Wilford, began as a once-a-month clinic to address the overpopulation issue; from 1997 to 2002 the clinic altered 5,000 cats. Today, FCSNP is open four days a week, Sunday through Thursday, and sees up to 50 cats per day. Shelters nationwide have benefited from FCSNP and have modeled their programs after the organization’s successes. After spearheading this movement, FCSNP was recognized by PetSmart charities in 2003, which gave the organization a large grant to become a national mentoring organization. FCSNP has since mentored across the world, with spay/neuter programs emerging nationwide and as far away as Tokyo and the Netherlands.

There has been a paradigm shift where organizations work together – and the end result has benefited humans and felines alike. “We have a reciprocal relationship with shelters,” Thompson said. “We partner with MEOW Cat Rescue, which applies every year for a grant to cover the cost of spay/neuter for those who need assistance. We’ve partnered with organizations like Pawsitive Alliance, Burien Cares, South County Cats, Pasado’s Safe Haven, and the Community Cat Coalition, which focuses on Trap Neuter Return. We did our first

mentoring clinic in 2015 with the Wenatchee Valley Humane Society and performed over 300 surgeries by the end of the year. Collaborations are an invaluable part of what we do – we’re really impactful in our collaborations.” FCSNP has also mentored Yakima Humane Society and the Olympic Peninsula Humane Society.

According to Thompson, spay/neuter is important for multiple reasons, including population control and decreased euthanasia rates, pet health, including FIV and leukemia prevention, and animal welfare. For those who want to witness “the miracle of birth,” shelters nationwide already have pregnant cats who are going to have kittens, there’s no need to intentionally allow other cats to become pregnant.

“Right now in America, we have seven cats for every one person. Even if we adopted out a cat for each person, a four-person family would need to have 28 cats. We need to turn the faucet off and prevent more kittens from being born,” he said.

Cats can become pregnant as early as four months of age and unlike canines, felines can be “in heat” continuously, with an average cat having up to three litters every year. “At an average rate of four kittens per litter, that increases exponentially,” Thompson explained. “People use our service for both pets and free-roaming animals, and they’re just really excited to have access to our services.”

FCSNP’s surgeries are low-cost, with spays at $25 and neuters at only $15. “We try to keep cost barriers down as low as possible,” he said. “We’re a low-cost, high-volume, high quality spay/neuter clinic for cats.”

FCSNP recently reached 100,000 spay/neuter surgeries, which was celebrated at their Spayghetti and No Balls fundraiser on April 3. When the accomplishment was announced, the room erupted in applause – and to cap off this feat, the event raised $9,000 to help FCSNP continue its lifesaving work. FCSNP will have a booth at the Average Joe Cat Show in Seattle on May 7 and their next event, the Sexless Soiree, will be on September 24.

Thompson is proud of these accomplishments – and he’s excited to see how the organization will continue to grow, evolve, and collaborate with other organizations. Here’s to the next 20 years of life-changing surgeries!

To support FCSNP and their work, or to learn more, visit their website at www.feralcatproject.org.

Celebrates 100,000 Spay/Neuter Surgeries

Country music phenom Kacey Musgraves, the velvet voice behind “Merry Go ‘Round,” “Follow Your Arrow,” and “Find Somebody to Love,” has found a special somebody to love, thanks to Motley Zoo Animal Rescue. According to Motley Zoo’s Executive Director, Jme Thomas, Kacey met Bambi the dog at Bumbershoot 2015 backstage – and the two instantly clicked.

“We’d set up in a main area where the artists walked by to go get food, so it was kind of random, but nearly everyone stopped in,” Jme explained. “Kacey kept coming back. She said, ‘I’m serious, I really want to adopt this dog. What do I need to do?’ We were taken a bit off guard because she was flying out that night and we didn’t have her application! We don’t trust just anyone just because they’re famous!”

After further discussion, it was determined that Bambi needed a health certificate to fly. Kacey was flying through Seattle on her way back from her Alaskan tour dates, so she would pick up Bambi on her return. Unfortunately, Kacey missed her flight back and had to buy a new ticket, just to be able to take Bambi.

“The two were definitely an item right off the bat,” Jme said. “She spotted Bambi out of the whole litter. And Bambi seemed to pick her, too! It was instant attraction – dare we say, puppy love?”

Motley Zoo still hears from Kacey and Bambi, and Kacey’s Instagram page is full of Bambi. “She definitely goes on tour and all her fans know who Bambi is and want to meet Bambi (even if they don’t get to meet Kacey)!” said Jme.

“We’re really excited that we have not only worked with the artists to help promote our mission, but that they can actually adopt – even if it’s not right on the spot. It’s pretty impractical for most musicians who are somewhat mid-tour when they meet us, to just take a dog (or cat) home with them...so we have never allowed that, but we’re so glad when artists really follow through and make it happen. They fill out the same application as anyone else, no exceptions! We’re consistent and true for the benefit of the animals! The artists appreciate that, too! We hope to help make many more unions with Adoptable Roadies and their namesake artists!”

Thank you, Kacey Musgraves, and congratulations, Bambi! To learn more about Motley Zoo, visit their website at http://motleyzoo.org.

Kacey Musgraves Finds Somebody to Love


A dog named Molly roamed the streets of Deer Park, Washington for four long years – but a small group of animal rescuers refused to give up on her. After she saw an image of Molly with her muzzle full of porcupine quills, rescuer Bonnie Beltz of Roaming Paws Lost Pet Services knew that she had to help. Within hours of seeing the image, Beltz, who lived 300 miles away, was on-site trying to help Molly. “She was being chased down the road by a car honking at her,” Beltz recalled. “I’ve never seen a dog with so much fear in her eyes.” While many had given up on the wily, street-wise dog, a dedicated team of rescuers never did – and their persistence paid off. They formed a Facebook page called “Molly’s recovery team Deer Park, WA” and rescuers from around the state collaborated to help the stray dog. PAK9 Dog Training in Spokane finally

coordinated her capture. Many people made this rescue possible, including Deer Park resident Ashley Bond, who worked for months to form a friendship with Molly. Many residents opposed Molly’s capture, but it was determined to be in the dog’s best interest for her to be taken from the streets after four long years. “Rescuers are volunteers, and we give as much time as possible,” Beltz said. “Many of us pay out of pocket for our fuel, food, and supplies, without asking for or expecting reimbursement. Capturing dogs like Molly usually takes more time and effort than people realize. It’s when people with different levels of experience and areas of expertise work in a coordinated effort that lives are saved quickly and efficiently.” She added: “Molly’s story is a message to get involved and stay committed – the dog’s life may depend on you.”

Molly & Bonnie Beltz

Molly the Dog Rescued After Four Years on the Streets

Dr. Sara Render-HopkinsDr. Allison Edwards

[email protected]

In-home Comfort & Kindness for Pets

Services offered include acupuncture, hospice care

and euthanasia

Perhaps the most difficult question a pet parent will consider is “how will I know it is time to say good-bye?” While there may be an obvious answer, most times this decision presents an incredible struggle. An owner may have to consider this question for a prolonged period of time, as in a case where an animal is given a diagnosis of a life-limiting disease, such as cancer, yet continues to have a reasonably good quality of life. We don’t want to euthanize too soon, but we definitely don’t want to wait too long.

The absolute truth is that caregivers do not want their beloved pet to suffer or be in pain – the right time to say good-bye in most cases is when suffering occurs and cannot be controlled. The problem is, this

may not a black or white answer. How do we know the quality of life is no longer acceptable? There are several tools we typically use when having this discussion with people.

Dr. Alice Villalobos, a veterinary oncologist, has been a leader in the pet hospice and palliative care movement (www.pawspice.com). Her quality of life scale (http://pawspice.com/clients/17611/documents/QualityofLifeScale.pdf) may help owners quantify parameters important for their pet. Depending on the disease process, it may be valuable to visit this scale frequently to monitor the decline in quality of life. We often suggest having individual members of the family complete this scale separately. Then all come together to compare notes. The decision to euthanize is made more complicated when family members have differing opinions on their pet’s quality of life.

Pain can be very difficult to read in our pets – they hide it extremely well. In fact, animals may be placed in danger if a larger predator or rival sees pain or weakness. Evolutionarily speaking, animals should hide pain. I often hear people say they don’t think their pet is in pain because they aren’t crying or whimpering. Animals don’t typically vocalize, unless their pain is incredible (i.e. a broken leg). However, there are many body cues to indicate pain or discomfort. Body posture, ear position, restlessness, and panting can all imply pain.

What about the pet who doesn’t appear to be in pain, but also doesn’t appear to be happy? Are they still enjoying life? An example would be a geriatric dog with arthritis and mobility problems. He sleeps all day, is restless at night, isn’t excited to see his owners, sometimes eats, sometimes doesn’t. When is the right time to say good-bye? In cases like this, there may not be that distinct sign that a person hopes to see. A common suggestion is to consider 3 activities the pet used to love to do – when they cannot do 2 out of 3, maybe it is time to say good-bye. A geriatric dog may not be able to rip around a dog park, but have they also stopped wanting to spend time outside watching the birds? Or, perhaps on your return home, the only greeting you receive is a head-raise.

We suggest people consider the “line in the sand” that a pet needs to cross for an owner to say good-bye, ahead of time. This line will vary. For some, it may be when the pet can’t get up, or doesn’t want to go for their favorite walk. Most people say it is when the pet stops eating. While this parameter may be appropriate for many pets, it is important to realize that not every pet will stop eating (think beagles and labs).

Of course, quality of life issues not only involve the pet, but also the owners. Caregiver fatigue, and physical and mental demands all come into play. Most people who we meet gladly accept these demands if it means keeping their beloved pet comfortable for a longer period of time. But that does not make them less difficult.

Dr. Sara and Dr. Allison can always provide guidance through a quality-of-life assessment. During the consultation, we

review history, perform an exam, help owners determine pain/discomfort in their pets, and provide resources to gauge the quality-of-life. Sometimes we are able to make suggestions to improve the quality-of-life, and other times it becomes clear to the owner that it is time to say good-bye. Regardless of the outcome, we do our best to support the owners through this difficult and emotional time.

Learn more about Compassion 4 Paws on their website: compassion4paws.com.

When is the Right Time to Say Good-bye?

As he swept past me, I could see his belly and hooves. I kept screaming and turned my head to see my friend, Jennifer, standing in the arena doorway holding my sweet old Arabian mare, Misty. Her jaw dropped as she hastened to put Misty away. As she came over, she asked me what had happened.

“I…I don’t know, he just went nuts,” I said.

She held Beau, who was wild-eyed and blowing hard. He leaned his head down toward me. I yelled and cursed at him – the first time I’d ever done this – and he took a step back. I didn’t know then that it wasn’t his fault.

“Try to breathe normally,” Jennifer said.

“What?” I said, realizing that I was hyperventilating. “Okay…I’ll try.” I felt sick, shaky, unsure.

“What hurts?” she asked. Jennifer had been an EMT; she’d seen it all. I wanted to believe that it wasn’t bad, but I knew that it was.

“My back, I think. And…” I tried not to cry. I forced out the words brusquely, “and I can’t move my legs.”

Jennifer’s face was solemn. She called for an ambulance and her husband, Jerry, came in to the arena. I’d never seen that look on his face before –stifled worry.

“Why didn’t you do a one-rein stop?” he asked. I stared back, thinking through the fog of adrenaline and disbelief. Yes, why hadn’t I pulled one of his reins around?

“I tried to, but he was too fast,” I said, recalling suddenly that sharp moment where we separated. I knew that this was Jerry’s way of telling me that he was worried; he and Jennifer both knew that coddling wouldn’t help.

“Jennifer,” I yelled out, “tell the ambulance to not have their sirens on. It’ll scare the horses.”

I’m not sure if she heard me, but the ambulance arrived soundlessly. The

paramedics knelt next to me, asking the standard questions: how it happened and what hurt. I answered as best as I could. They explained that they were going to place me on a backboard.

“Wait, no, I’ve been there before – no, you’re not,” I said with resolve that surprised even me. “Last time that happened to me, I had something sharp poking into my head on the backboard, and I couldn’t move my head, and there was tape across my head that ripped my hair out.” The paramedics stared at me.

“I’m sure I can get up on my own,” I said. I rocked and crawled to get into a “frog” position, elbows propping up my body, bottom pointed toward the sky, when I placed my forehead on the cold, wet sand and stopped.

“Hold on,” I said. “I’m either going to throw up or pass out. I’m not sure which.” One of the paramedics placed an oxygen mask on me. “Oh wow,” I gasped. “The arena stopped spinning. Thank you.”

“Look,” one of the paramedics said. “You can’t get up on your own. How about we promise to not tape you down…will you


Annette LankerCertified PetTech Instructor HTA Practitioner

PET CPR, FIRST AID

AND WELLNESS CLASSES

Improving the QUALITY of Pets’ lives, one Pet Owner at a time.

[email protected] local pawTree representative.

Check out PawTree.com/Annette for natural food customized for your dog!

253-208-4625www.HolyCowCritters.com

If at any time during your day you put your hand on fur or pet hair,

YOU should be trained in Pet CPR & 1st Aid!

Balancing Jack By Tracy Campion

Chapter One.

Long before the wildly popular “Serial” series burst onto the podcast scene, “serials” referred almost exclusively to stories that were issued within sequential issues of a magazine. Authors like Dickens and Dumas were masters of the serialized genre of narrative fiction, with the former introducing The Pickwick Papers in 1836 and the latter introducing The Three Musketeers in 1844.

While I don’t pretend to be a master of serial narratives – or any narratives, really – I thought that it would be fun to bring back this literary genre. It’s not The Pickwick Papers or The Three Musketeers, but my non-fiction serial features my own adventures and misadventures. And most importantly, especially for the readers of Pet Connection, it prominently features my animal family.

So I bring you “Balancing Jack: How a Three-legged Dog Helped Me Find My Footing Once Again.”

I hope you’ll enjoy reading this as much as I’ve enjoyed writing it.

Chapter 1 There’s a moment – I’m not sure how long – between catapulting and landing that seems to stretch on much longer than it should. I’ve been told that when you’re in a traumatizing situation that it feels like everything is in slow motion because your brain is trying to take everything in. Every iota of information, processing at hyper speed, resulting in a surreal, time-stretched-like-taffy feeling. And for one very long, space-time-continuum defying moment, I was suspended above the earth. I was flying. And I was screaming.

My red horse had swept sharply to the left, launching me to the right; somehow, he was no longer beneath me as I hovered in mid-air. How many times had I dreamt about flying? It hadn’t been like this. I came to earth with nothing below me but wet sand. I didn’t know that it was possible to land that hard.

I felt like I was expelling one long, continuous scream that was only briefly punctuated by the impact; it was more like a comma than a paragraph break. I felt Beau’s thundering hooves on the ground as he raced around, mane and tail fanned out. I marveled at how fast he was. His legs were a blur in my tear-clouded eyes. And then I realized that I couldn’t move my legs.

Beau rounded the arena, head low, eyes wild. “He’s running toward me,” I thought. I tried to move, but I couldn’t. As he approached, there was no profound slideshow of life moments going through my mind; I only thought, “He’s scared, and this is it.”

let us put you on the backboard?”

“Yes,” I said, relieved. “But now…I can’t remember how I got into this position. I might need some help laying down again.”

The paramedics kindly helped me into a prone position again, gently placing me onto the backboard. The oxygen mask remained affixed to my face and I quietly said, “Thank you,” as they gently helped me into the ambulance.

Why can’t I move my legs? I wondered angrily.

**

One city over, in Yakima, Washington, a small black dog was probably spending his first moments with his mother. He was wondering how to keep his feet underneath himself. He was learning to walk, and climb, and leap. He was probably a champion snuggler from day one. And he had no idea that his days of “normal” living would be numbered.

Tracy & Beau

Pets are Adorable Kisses! Tail wags!

Purrs! They’ve got us by the heart!

and sometimes… by the wallet

888-234-1350 • GoodNeighborVet.com888-234-1350 • GoodNeighborVet.com

May SpecialBuy 2 vaccines get

free dewormer

June SpecialAdopt a Cat Month!

10% off all Feline Vaccination Packages (with purchase of 2+ vaccines)

Good Neighbor Vet

Save time and money at Good Neighbor Vet Exams • Vaccinations • Microchips

No appointment needed

Fast, Friendly, Affordable, Convenient

Documents

MAGAZINEpetconnectionmagazine.com/pdfs/2016NSmayjune.pdf · Pet Connection Magazine and may NOT be reprinted or used ... behaviorist; and Penny Eims of the National Dog News Examiner