Very Important Fundraiser Coming up for the Kalkaska Animal Shelter Dogs

There is always something going on in our area to help animals in need and they are all great and worthy causes. This one is extra special and I can't stress enough how much this is needed. The Northwoods Animal Coalition in Kalkaska is having a fundraiser on Sunday, February 26th from 4 to 8 pm called "Raise the Woof" Dinner and Dance Party. They are trying to raise funds to construct a roof over the outside kennels at the Kalkaska County Animal Shelter. This will provide shelter to the dogs who are otherwise standing in a cage, having to deal with snow and rain. As you can see from the photo below, the dogs are exposed to the elements when they are outside.

The event will be at Whitetails Steak & Ale in Kalkaska and you can find out more about it on my calendar page. If you can't make the fundraiser, you can still donate to this very important cause. If everyone reading this could round up your change, skip a coffee or a McDonalds breakfast this week and send them at least $5.00, we could make some real change for a lot of Kalkaska dogs.

Click here to print out the information to send them a check and be sure to note that the money should be used for kennel roofs.

The Emergency Dog Rescue Box (Helpful Items to Catch a Stray Dog)

Okay, so I know that most of you are not professional animal rescuers. But who hasn't come across a stray dog - and wasn't prepared to catch them? Based on some of my successful (and not so successful) dog rescues, I have come up with some tips and a list of items that you might want to keep in your car in case you run across a dog who has gotten lost.

1. FOOD: Be sure to find something super great that a dog would find hard to resist. Dog jerky treats work well, although I advise against buying the ones from China right now since there have been a lot or pet treat recalls. You can also get strong smelling human food, like tuna. Don't expect the dog to come up to you right away for the food. Throw some of the food towards the dog and coax him or her to come closer and closer to where you are standing.

2. VOICE AND BODY LANGUAGE (Yours): Talk calmly and slowly at all times when you are with the dog. Reassure them that you are friendly. Make sure that your hand is palm-up so that you don't appear threatening to them.

3. VOICE AND BODY LANGUAGE (Theirs): Are they barking or growling at you? Growling could mean trouble. Barking isn't as bad as growling but you still should take an overall look at the dog's body language to see how he or she is responding. Is the tail wagging? That's usually an indication of a friendly dog. If the tail is straight out from the body and fluffed up, that could mean they are aggressive or scared. Other indications of a fearful or aggressive dog include their ears being forward or back instead of opened normally or their tail being down and tucked between their legs. And please keep in mind, if the dog appears threatening at all, please call your local animal control officer for help. Please do not put yourself or any of your family members in danger.

4. LEASH/COLLAR: Probably the easiest thing to buy is one of those loop leashes so you don't have to worry about getting a collar on the dog. Here is a link to the kind of leash I'm referring to: click here.

5. PHONE NUMBERS: Put these numbers on your cell phone so that you are prepared - your local animal control, rescue groups, shelters and your county office (to look up a dog license number).

6. OTHER ITEMS: Heavy blanket (for dog to lay on in car), first aid kit, water bowl and water.

So, now what do you once you have the dog in your car?? If you can, the best thing would be to take it home with you because many of your local animal controls, rescue groups and shelters are overburdened. However, make sure you contact them all with a description of the dog because those are the kind of organizations where most people will be looking for their dog. You should also make a flyer with a photo of the dog and put it up in several place near the area where the dog was found. In addition, please place a found dog ad in your local newspaper and on Craigslist. Ask for the owner to bring a photo of their dog with them to show you that they are the owner.

If you take the dog home, you'll want to keep it in a separate area from the rest of your pets, for the safety and comfort of your own pets as well as your new guest. Make sure it receives plenty of water and food, as you don't know how long it has been on its own. If it's been a week or two and no one has claimed the animal, and you aren't able to keep it, please try to place it with a friend or relative first. If that doesn't work, try to find a new owner who you are comfortable with. Ask for a vet reference and don't just take the first call that you get. There are bad people who might want to sell your new friend to a research lab or to use them for dog fighting. Screen the adopters. Call your local no-kill animal shelter or a rescue group to see if they have room for your new friend. Sometimes they have waiting lists or you can foster the dog for them. They might even have someone who is waiting for the same breed of dog that you have found.

Good luck and happy rescuing.

Michigan Legislative Update

To keep up-to-date with animal welfare legislation in Michigan, please click here.

According to the Michigan Humane Society, the latest good news is that the Michigan House Judiciary Committee approved all three dogfighting bills recently without a single “nay” vote! The bills now go to the full House to be voted on, and then hopefully signed by the Governor. Thank you to everyone for all of your calls and letters. We’re one step closer to cracking down on dogfighting here in Michigan.

Traverse City Dog Park Update

Now that the Traverse City Dog Park has been approved by the city commissioners, fundraising ideas are being talked about.

Plans are currently being made for a jammin' Mardi Paws party on Feb. 20th and a possible Valentine's basket drawing at the D.O.G. Bakery. Please go on their website for more event information.

They also were able to meet their challenge grant recently. A generous person offered to donate $1000 if another $1000 was raised by January 31st. With hard work and some word of mouth, it was accomplished! The Dog Park will need $15,000 for the fencing and gate system and they currently have met about 25% of that goal.

Click here for a pdf of the donation form that you can download.

If you are interested in helping out with fundraising, please email them here.

Special AC Paw Cats Looking for New Homes

There are lots of great pets in our area looking for homes. AC Paw asked that I highlight five very special kitties in need of new homes.

ORPHIE is a very sweet kitty who is up for adoption with his buddy Rusty. They are owner relinquished and both very sad due to the sudden changes in their lives so we are hoping to find them a new home soon. Orphie is a beautiful 9-1/2 year old gray tiger who is very loving. He is an older cat but still has many quality years left and lots of love to give someone who will give him a chance. He and Rusty have never been separated so we want to keep them together. You can see them both up at Petsmart. We hope someone will come in, spend some time with them, and give them a chance to prove what wonderful companions they can be.

RUSTY is Orphie's best buddy. He is a ten year old orange tiger. He is a bit more shy the Orphie so will need a home where someone will understand that he needs some time to adjust to his new surroundings. We want Rusty and Orphie to stay together as they would be very sad if they were separated. Rusty is a wonderful cat who needs to find his new loving home soon with his buddy Orphie.

JASMINE is our AC Paw Pet of the Week. We are looking for a very special person who might be willing to foster Jasmine with the possibility of adopting her also.  She is owner relinquished and has been in a foster home. She has been in a home with other cats and she does not do well with other animals. We feel she would do best in a home as an only cat. We are hoping someone with no other animals would  give Jasmine an opportunity to show that she can be a wonderful friend and companion. She is a very sweet cat who needs that special someone to come and give her a second chance at life which she so truly deserves. Jasmine is a very pretty gray cat who is front declawed.  She is 4-1/2-5 years old. If you think you might want to foster Jasmine, or for more information about her please contact her foster mom Liz at 231-649-5970 or go to the website.

ROCKY is also a special kitty. He is a ten year old cat who had been abused since he was a kitten. He is in a foster home now where he is finally beginning to show some trust, but is still a bit unsure at times and can become unpredictable. He will need someone who is willing to give him the space he needs. If someone would like to foster him, with the possibility of adopting him, please contact his foster mom Liz at 231-649-5970 or www.acpaw.org

He is a beautiful tiger and white kitty who was declawed on all four paws before he came to AC Paw. He is a wonderful cat who needs someone that understands he came from a very abusive situation and that he needs time to feel safe and needs time to learn to love, something he had never had his whole life.

COCO is another very special kitties we are featuring this week. We are hoping as we are with Jasmine and Rocky, that someone would be willing to foster her in hopes that they may adopt her. She is a very loving and gentle cat who would does get along with other cats, but she would probably be best for her to be an only cat. She is a beautiful long haired tortie who is declawed on all four paws. She is 3-1/2 to 4 years old. Please open up your heart and give this very sweet cat a chance to show what a wonderful friend and companion she can be.  For more information about CoCo please contact her foster mom Liz at 231-649-5970 or www.acpaw.org

Local Animal Hospital Serving the Community

Fundraisers and donations are critical for many organizations and programs to continue helping those in need, especially furry, four-legged friends. Northwood Animal Hospital in Grawn sees the need on a daily basis and is known for their non-traditional approach to fundraising.

This past year the hospital held a Parachuting for Paws fundraiser, participated in Bra’s for a Cause and numerous other private and public events.

“We participate in as many fundraisers and community events as we can and enjoy supporting community efforts that help people and animals,” states Dr. Jennifer Klabunde, DVM, CVCP of Northwood Animal Hospital (NAH).

Many individuals banded together to raise funds this summer for Cherryland Humane Society. To promote this and other local animal shelters, NAH went skydiving to raise funds and awareness. They encouraged people to donate to support the critical needs of Cherryland Humane Society. In September, 15 people traveled to Mt. Pleasant to take part in the event. All donations were collected and a total of over $2000 total was raised and 100% of the proceeds raised were divided between the Cherryland Humane Society and the Benzie County Animal Shelter.

“Our hospital strives to find creative ways to fundraise.  Parachuting for Paws was a great way to get community members involved and excited about supporting our local shelters” states Dr. Klabunde.

This past year NAH has supported Bark in the Park with the H.A.N.D.D.S. organization, Ultimate Air Dogs at the Traverse City Cherry Festival, the NEADS Program (which raises money for companion animals for disabled veterans), Toys for Tots and many others.

“We look for opportunities to support the community and take part in as many community fundraisers and local events as possible. We look forward to creating and participating in new and inventive ways to fundraise in 2012!” states Dr. Klabunde.

Northwood Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinary hospital, dental and surgical center in Grawn, Michigan. She has owned and operated the hospital since 2007 and is committed to providing high-quality services with compassionate care.

To learn more about Dr. Klabunde or Northwood Animal Hospital, please visit their website here or find them on Facebook here. You can also call them at 231-276-6361.

A TAIL of A New Kind of Rescue Group in Northern Lower Michigan (January)

There is a new animal rescue group in Northern Lower Michigan called Northern Michigan Rat Rescue (NMRR). While the Pet Friends website usually focuses on dogs, cats and horses, I was intrigued by this new group and wanted to learn more.

The organization is being run out of Cedar by Erin Dendrinos. She rescues domestic rats and keeps them in a shelter in her home as well as using other foster homes. NMRR does NOT take in feral or wild rats. Wild rats are dangerous and carry diseases that can kill tame rats. They do not domesticate well and their bites leave scars. It is also illegal in most states to transport wild rats off of your own property and release them elsewhere. Click here for the rest of the story.

Recent Product Recalls Concerning Pet Food:
(January)

Arrow Brand Dog Food due to aflatoxin. Please click here for more info.

Petrus Feed And Seed Stores, Inc. Recalls Its 21% Dog Food. Click here for more info.

For a list of all recalls animal & veterinary recalls & withdrawals in 2011, please click here.

Veterinarian Karen Mertaugh Lives an Unconventional Life (January)

Veterinarian Karen Mertaugh spends time with her pets Frieda and Margarita, two goats that live on the 100-year-old family farm, the site of her and her husband’s practice, The Animal Medical Center. When you come to the house of Karen Mertaugh, chances are you’ll be greeted by a dog, a cat or even a school of fish housed on the west-side wall – all before setting foot in the actual home. Click here for more info.

Help Area Rescue Groups by Dropping Off Items in Elk Rapids

Bowsers By The Bay is now a drop off site for any donations for the local rescue groups (of customer's choosing). Bowsers by the Bay is at 201 EC Loomis Industrial Park Drive in Elk Rapids. They can receive donations of items or money and will contact your favorite group to let them know they have donations ready for them.

Bowsers by the Bay is a fitness and rehabilitation facility for dogs. They are truly cage free. They have about 4500 square feet of indoor and outdoor play/training space for dogs. All dogs must be temperament tested before they arrive. They provide day camp and boarding, training, full-service grooming and will eventually have a veterinarian on board to do physical rehabilitation work. Please stop by anytime for a tour. The fitness center is open Monday through Friday from 7 am to 6 pm and Saturdays by request. They board 24/7 and are staffed around the clock.

AC Paw, Missaukee County Humane Society and the Osceola County Animal Shelter Win Top Awards from Pet Friends

Every year, the Michigan Department of Agriculture releases the “Michigan Animal Shelter Activity Reports” for licensed animal shelters in Michigan (please click here for the full report for 2010). Fostering-only groups do not have to report but some do. This report includes, among other things, intake and euthanasia information.

Pet Friends organizes the information every year for the animal groups listed our our "shelter" link so that our readers can have a better understanding of their local animal organizations.

This is the 3rd year of the Pet Friend Magazine's Annual "PAW" Award (Pet Friends Animal Welfare Award). The winners are based on the percentage of the least amount of euthanasias for the year 2010 compared to the intake numbers of cats and dogs. One new rule this year is for the shelter to take in at least 50 animals to make them comparable to other shelters in deciding who wins the awards.

AC Paw and the Osceola County Animal Shelter have tied for a win for the 2010 PAW Award from Pet Friends Magazine in the dog category for the least amount of euthanasias.

AC Paw and the Missaukee County Humane Society have tied for a win for the 2010 PAW Award from Pet Friends Magazine in the cat category for the least amount of euthanasias.

Please click here for our list of the shelter statistics for the Northern Lower Michigan animal shelters in our area.

Michigan Group Joins National Campaign to End Petland Puppy Sales (November)

A group of Michigan citizens have joined a popular campaign on Change.org calling on Petland to stop selling pets and support pet adoption instead. Pam Sordyl, founder of the Puppy Mill Awareness Meetup of Southeast Michigan, started a campaign on Change.org demanding that the Petland branch in Novi, MI stop selling puppies purchased from commercial breeding facilities known as "puppy mills" and support pet adoption.

For more on this story, please click here.

Winter Pet Care Tips
By Lori S. Mohr (via BestFriends.org)
(November)

Water.
Active dogs need as much water, or even more, in the winter than they do in the summer. Make sure that outside water supplies do not freeze. De-icers are available from pet supply catalogs, and run from $15.00 to $40.00. You can also purchase them from hardware stores.

Antifreeze.
Keep your pet away from antifreeze. Poisoning takes only a couple of licks. Antifreeze may lurk in your garage on your driveway.

Road Salt.
Keep your pet away from road salt. This chemical compound can cause painful burns to an animal's feet, tongue, and mouth. Wash it off immediately. Long-haired dogs can track in the chemicals on their body hair.

Snow.
Don't let your dog wander away in the snow. Scent, sound, and landmarks may become confusing, making it quite easy for dogs to become lost.

Keeping Warm
During the winter, dog sweaters are great for keeping long hair clean, dry, and away of chemicals. They are also wonderfully warm and cozy.

Animal Shelter Tour 2011
(November)

In the month of October, I decided to visit some shelters that I have never been to before. These included the Little Traverse Bay Humane Society, Charlevoix Area Humane Society, Kalkaska County Animal Control and the Second Chance Ranch and Rescue. You can read about these visits and other animal welfare places I've taken a tour of by clicking here.

D.O.G. Bakery in Traverse City Helping to Raise Funds for Local Animal Organizations (November)

The D.O.G. Bakery is teaming up with The Traverse City Toxic Cherries to help raise much needed cash for area animal rescue organizations.

Buy a Frisbee for $2.50 and more than $1 will go directly to local animal groups, including AC Paws, HOPE and the Cherryland Humane Society.

Novartis Warns Of Wrong Tablets In Pet Medicine Clomicalm Bottles

It's been only a few days since the consumer health division of Swiss drug maker Novartis AG (NVS: News ) temporarily suspended operations at Lincoln, Nebraska, production facility and recalled certain over-the-counter drugs - Bufferin, Excedrin, Gas-X Prevention and NoDoz, due to mix-up of products. Now, the animal health division of Novartis has warned that a wrong tablet may be found in bottles of Clomicalm, which is prescribed to treat behavioral disorders in dogs. Click here for more info.

Updated News Release With Corrected Lot Numbers-
Advanced Animal Nutrition Recalls Dog Power Dry Dog Food

Advanced Animal Nutrition today announced a voluntary recall of its dry Dog Power Dog Food- due to aflatoxin levels that were detected above the acceptable limit.  The affected products were manufactured between Jan. 4, 2011, and Nov. 18, 2011. No illnesses have been reported in association with these products to date, and no other Advanced Animal Nutrition pet food products are involved in this recall. Affected products are:

**  DOG POWER ADULT MAINTENANCE  FORMULA 21-12 Dog Food, 50 pound bags

**  DOG POWER HUNTERS FORMULA 27-14 Dog Food, 50 pound bags

**  DOG POWER HI-PRO PERFORMANCE FORMULA 26-18 Dog Food, 50 pound bags

Click here for more info.

Low Cost Spay/Neuter Help Coming to the Traverse City Area

Although I can't divulge all of the details at the moment, I wanted to let you know that there are two things in the works to help get some much needed spaying and neutering done in our area. The first one is a local animal welfare organization who is working to bring up a mobile spay/neuter "bus" to be here for a few days and possibly spay/neuter over 100 animals. There also may be other low cost services available such as vaccinations. The plan is for this to happen in March and will be open to rescue groups and individuals. When I have more information on dates, times and how to register for the program, I will pass that information along to you.

The second exciting thing I learned about is a local veterinarian who is planning to host a monthly spay/neuter clinic for qualifying low income residents. This is also something that might come to fruition this spring.

Both of these programs couldn't come at a better time - when people are struggling financially and are having a hard time with some very needed vet care for their animals. At the same time, it will stop more unwanted animals from being born, becoming homeless and possibly euthanized.

Local Dog Places in Top Five in Dog Breed with the AKC/Eukanuba National Championships

Marty Dagneau Bates plans to tune in with other dog lovers around the country when the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship airs Saturday, Feb. 4, on ABC TV. The Lake Ann breeder and her Glen of Imaal terrier, Tully, competed in the December invitation-only dog show considered to be one of the most prestigious in the world. The pair placed in the top five of the breed and won an award of excellence.

For more on the story, click here.

A Special Thanks from Cherryland Humane Society
(from their recent newsletter)

Last May, the CHS made a public plea for funds for continued operation. The response to that plea has truly been overwhelming, beyond that which could ever have been anticipated. Hundreds of individuals, groups, businesses and the media have come forward with help in so many needed and vital areas. That response has allowed the CHS to enjoy an accelerated realization of some of its goals and objectives that have been put forward in its new long range plan. It is tremendously gratifying to witness the results the compassion of so many who love pets. It is the animals who are benefitting.

The incredible amount of donations received has allowed the CHS to significantly exceed the goals that were originally set. There were also numerous fundraisers that were done and that continue in an effort to help the animals. Several of those doing fundraisers have offered to do them on an annual basis.

The addition of numerous volunteers has helped immensely. Donations of supplies and equipment have made an outstanding impact. Increased adoptions have made a tremendous difference.

The efforts of the media promoted the need for funds over several months. It has been that public awareness that has sustained the response for help.

The CHS expresses its heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has come forward to help at a most critical time.

Five Treats That Can Make Your Pets Sick
by guest contributor,
Susan Blake Davis, CCN
Pet Nutritionist of www.AskAriel.com

A portion of the proceeds of Ask Ariel Your Pet Nutritionist are donated to Ariel Rescue, Inc., a 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to saving the lives of homeless dogs in impoverished areas in Southern California. They have saved over 1500 dogs that would have been euthanized.

We love our pets and want to spoil them. But be careful, as some treats can cause more harm than good. Not every pet will have a problem with the treats listed below but some might and it is better to be safe than sorry.

Peanut Butter--This is often a favorite method for administering pills to dogs. Peanut butter can be a huge allergen and should definitely be avoided if your dog has any type of allergy or skin problems such as ear infections, hot spots, or paw chewing/licking. Also, it is very high in fat and should not be used for any dogs with liver or pancreatitis conditions. Alternatives for administering pills are canned dog food, hummus or hypoallergenic Pill Pockets.

Tuna Water--Many pet owners add tuna water to their cat's food on a routine basis. This is usually because the cat isn't eating well due to health concerns such as kidney disease. Tuna water is high in phosphorous (bad for the kidneys) and contains mercury. This just isn't a good habit to get into. Safer alternatives are low sodium chicken or beef broth or an alternative canned cat food used as a "topper".

Commercial Hot Dogs--Hot dogs are highly processed, loaded with salt, chemicals and are high in fat. In addition, most contain nitrates which are a known carcinogen. A contributing factor to the high rate of cancer in pets is the reduced quality of foods we are feeding them. If you want to eat a hot dog, then take a look at Applegate Farms which is a lower fat, no-nitrate, no-antibiotic version. But for your pets, stick with a piece of homecooked meat over a hot dog

Fat From Meat e.g.Tablescraps--The fat from your meat should go into the garbage---not into your pet. Pancreatitis can occur from a simple incidence of cutting off fat from meat and giving it your pet. Pets thrive on lean meats, fish and poultry. Please give them the very best in these foods and don't give them fat from the table.

Cookie Dough and Other Baked Goods--Pets can get sick very quickly from too much sugar. Most baked goods not only contain sugar but also flour which can be problematic for allergic pets. Some contain raisins which are poisonous. Many pets get urinary tract infections especially from eating grains and high carbohydrates. Please avoid giving your pet grains and especially human baked goods that contain sugar

Healthy Treats For Your Pet
Feel free to give your pet healthy treats such as Wildside Salmon Treats. These tasty treats are great for cats and dogs and are made of just pure wild salmon. Venison jerky from holistic brands such as Natures Variety and Ziwi Peak are good options. A baby carrot, slice of apple, vegetables are all good choices as well as a small amount of baked or canned salmon or a lean meat. Please look at labels carefully---if you can't pronounce the ingredients--don't give it to your pet. Finally, be sure to avoid treats with food dyes that are made to look like fresh ingredients--e.g. orange-colored dog treats that are made to look like a fresh carrot.

Save Money and Extend the Life of Your Pet!
by guest contributor,
Susan Blake Davis, CCN
Pet Nutritionist of www.AskAriel.com

With the current economy, we are all looking for ways to save money. It is hard to make ends meet and cutting costs is a priority for everyone. However, short-term gains may result in long-term negative consequences for your pet. Take a look at our handy tips and see where you can save and where to invest for the long-term health of your pet.

Stop and think the next time you buy your pet’s food. Look at the label. What’s really in there? Is there corn, wheat gluten, brewer’s rice and other fillers? Are there names you can’t pronounce such as ethoxyquin? What are they doing in your pet’s food anyway?

Your pet’s food label should list fresh ingredients such as meat, fish, vegetables and healthy omega 3 fats. Invest in a high quality brand and you’ll find that instead of spending more on the high quality brand you’re actually SAVING money because you’ll end up using about ? the recommended amounts (it takes a lot more food to fill up a pet using food that is loaded with fillers) AND the long-term benefits to your pet are immeasurable. Please visit the Animal Protection Institute to learn more about pet food and how it is prepared.

Avoid purchasing those cleverly marketed, commercially prepared treats that make you think you are actually doing good for your pet. You know—the ones in pretty shapes and colors (e.g. orange carrot-shaped treats made to give you the impression you are giving your pet a carrot) or with dogs begging on the front of the package. Don’t be fooled either by those “all natural” economy packs (sold at the big warehouse stores). Many of these “all natural” jerky treats are manufactured with harsh chemicals and contaminants. Pets can get upset tummies and health problems from eating them. The "bargain" treat bag can actually end up costing you money because of the long-term health consequences on your pet.

Instead, use fresh ingredients right from your kitchen. There are lots of affordable, healthy options. For dogs, give them apple slices, baby carrots, a slice of potato, a piece of hardboiled egg or a piece of fresh, LEAN meat. Your cat would much prefer a piece of salmon or fish anyday over a treat that looks like fish made with corn flour, by-products and syrup.

Veterinary bills will most likely be the single largest expense for your pet. By far though, the highest veterinary bills arise from emergency, unplanned visits. You can actually keep your veterinary bills under control by planning ahead and making smart choices NOW! With a bad economy comes bad decisions that can have permanent effects on your pet’s quality of life and longevity. How many of us have thought about switching to a lower cost food, skipping on the vet exam or delaying much needed laboratory work for our pets??? DON’T! A penny saved today will not result in a pound tomorrow—just the opposite. There are plenty of other healthy ways you can save—e.g. drinking less coffee, bringing lunch to work, cutting back on alcohol, candy bars or cigarettes and still do your best for your pet.

Exercise! Exercise with your pet and you will see the dollars flow in over the years. Want to know one of the main reasons pets end up at the veterinary office with emergency, unplanned visits? Well, many of the them have diabetes, cancer, joint problems, liver problems—all have strong correlations with obesity and being overfed and underexercised. Obesity, lack of exercise is not just a matter of style or looks—it is a matter of good health. Take out a feather or laser toy for your cat--- go for a walk with your dog and everybody benefits! Not only will you save money on your veterinary bills but you will build a stronger bond with your pet and give them a happier, healthier life!

New leash on Dog Park Plans in Traverse City
(January)

The Traverse City community continues its effort to create a leash-free park for their canine companions. The Traverse City Commission approved the proposal for the dog park last month.  The dog park will be located on city land at Division and Bay Street. For more information on the story, please click here.

If you'd like to donate to help get the dog park up and running (scheduled for May of this year), send your donations to:

Mr. Lauren Vaughn, Superintendent
City of Traverse City Parks and Recreation
625 Woodmere Ave.
Traverse City, MI 49686

Make your check payable to City of Traverse City with Dog Park in the memo line.

KAM Rescue Group in Cadillac Disbands (January)

Unfortunately, a new rescue group that started in Cadillac shut down almost as quickly as it started. Due to disagreements among the founders, they are working independently now, still rescuing animals but no doing it as an organization.

SUFA (Stand Up for Animals) is Now Operating as Pine Cone Farm (January)

Linda Gottwald is now operating her animal rescue organization under the name of Pine Cone Farm. The animals up for adoption can be seen on her Petfinder site.

Here is the most recent link to the lawsuit concerning SUFA and activities in Florida.

Just One Day - to Save Pets in Shelters (January)

What is a day? There are many ways to answer that question. A day is 24 hours. A day is how we measure how much time we spend at work. A day can be something we look forward to, a celebration of some kind. But in U.S. animal shelters, a day represents 10,411 lives needlessly lost. To most people, June 11 is Just One Day. But, June 11 is a day that could change everything for 10,411 companion animals, and a day that can change the world. On June 11, 2012, we could be a No Kill nation. For more info, please go to this website.

Cherryland Humane Society Has New Volunteer to Take Photos for Website (December)

The dogs and cats at Cherryland Humane Society in Traverse City have a whole new look. No, they aren't wearing doggie tuxedos or kitty hats. What they have is a great new way to show themselves off on the Humane Society's website - they have volunteer photographer, Kimberli Bindschatel, taking great photos of them that really show off their personalities. Kimberli started taking the photos about a month ago and goes in to the shelter every week to take new pictures. She also has two volunteers who help her – Ellen Cohn is great with the cats and Laura Dagwell handles the dogs like a pro. Some animals are easier than others to deal with as some of them love the attention and some are leery of the flash. But each animal has beautiful eyes and a story to tell and Kimberli does her best to show that story in pictures.

Kimberli's friend Laura sent her a video about four months ago showing a professional photographer in Texas who had volunteered to take photos at a shelter. Because of this, the shelter's adoptions increased significantly. Kimberli knew that taking photos was her way to help the local pets who need to find homes - so she made a call to offer her talents. A photographer of 25 years, she knew she'd be able to capture the cat or dog's soul with the right lighting and waiting for the perfect moment to photograph them.

Kimberli also volunteers at the Boardman River Nature Center, playing Ollie the Otter, their mascot, among other volunteer activities. She has two dogs of her own, Tucker and Kloe, both nine-year-old Brittanys from the same litter.

Even if you aren't looking for new friend to adopt, please check out the website and see some of Kimberli's great photos on the Humane Society's website here.

If you are a rescue or shelter worker or volunteer, please check out this link at Petfinder to get some great tips on how to take great photos of your animals!

Sara’s Legacy Pet Sitters Adds to the Team
Paid Advertisement (December)

Sara’s Legacy Pet Sitters / Dog Walkers
announced today the addition of two new pet sitters to the team.

Jean Gibbons, a retired chemist, brings a huge love of animals combined with a lifetime of experience caring for and sharing a home with numerous dogs and cats. She is experienced with animals with special needs that require additional attention. “I generally make friends with animals easily,” Jean says. Susan Gibbons, owner, adds “I’ve seen timid dogs jump up to be on her lap when they wouldn’t allow anyone else to get close.”

The same last name is not a coincidence. “When I was considering who to bring on board to help out, I couldn’t think of a better person,” notes Susan. “I trust my mom with all my children, both the four-legged as well as the two-legged.”

Shiloh Wolfe is the newest member of the team, but has the most professional
experience, owning her own pet sitting business, Unity Pet Care in Burlington Vermont for over ten years. Shiloh, also has great affection, for all types of animals, both large and small from pocket pets to German Shepherds… and even reptiles. Shiloh also has experience working with special needs pets. “We are truly fortunate to have Shiloh bring
her tremendous experience to the team,” says Susan. “Her calm presence is a magnet for all.”

Sara’s Legacy Pet Sitters / Dog Walkers provides customized professional loving care in your pet’s most comfortable environment, their own home. The pet’s routine is kept intact with no imposition on family and friends. Mid-day dog walks are available for those dogs needing a break during the middle of the day while their family is either away
or at work.

For more information call 231.632.2877 or go to the website here.