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News
Archived stories will be stored here so that you can look up information that you may have missed.
JUNE 2010
Photos from Tails to Trails, a Four Paw 5K Walk/Run
Photos from Marsha Wheaton
MAY 2010
Animal Portraits to Benefit the Missaukee Humane Society in Lake City
In conjunction with the “Art for Shelter Animals” project, artist,
Jim Smith, will paint a portrait of your pet (whether a shelter animal
or not) for a donation to the Missaukee Humane Society in Lake City. For more information: Contact Tracy Greeley at Pure Fur Salon (231-839-3884). For a flyer of Jim Smith's past animal portraits, please click here.
Rescued Horses Brought to Northern Michigan
Many dogs and horses were removed from a woman's Livingston County home recently. Click here for story.
Horse North Rescue went downstate to rescue the 8 remaining horses. Dr. Tanja Molby's new horse rescue group "Michigan Equine Foundation" is also mobilizing to offer assistance.
Donations can be accepted by clicking here.
Below are some photos of the Livingston County horses taken by Horse North Rescue. Fore more photos, click here.
Wings of Wonder in Danger
Wings of Wonder is a non-profit raptor sanctuary located in Empire, Michigan. Active since 1990, their primary mission is education. Wings of Wonder presents over 120 educational programs annually throughout Michigan, reaching over 8,000 people each year. Their presentations are designed to foster appreciation, understanding, honor and respect for raptors and the important role these birds play in healthy ecosystems.
Wings of Wonder is also a raptor rehabilitation and release facility. Sick, injured and/or orphaned raptors are admitted for treatment, rehabilitation, and eventual release back to the wild. All raptors are seen and evaluated by their team of participating veterinarians. Their primary goal with rehabilitation is to release healthy and strong raptors back into the wild.
A situation has developed recently that could shut down Wings of Wonder forever. Below is a an email plea from founder and director, Rebecca Lessard.
Hello,
I apologize for the length of this post, but a serious situation has developed here that could shut down Wings of Wonder forever and I feel the extreme need to reach out for support. The Leelanau County Road Commission has all of sudden decided that our private easement is a public seasonal road. A little history about this easement:
1. The private easement has been used by several property owners, dating back to the early 1970's. This easement, which begins at the end of the paved portion of South Gilbert Road, provides ingress and egress rights to 3 different land parcels. A private road agreement document was drafted in early 1970 and has been signed by every land owner, at every land transaction, and is registered and libered at the Leelanau county courthouse. The legal description of this private easement is also listed in the legal descriptions of all properties involved.
2. in 1990 the first house was built on this property. The new land owner paid $11,000 to have electricity brought a mile back to service her house. She signed an easement agreement with Cherry Land Electric, who first did a title search which proved the easement was indeed private, before burying the electric cable underneath the middle of the easement. That same year the owner was contacted by the Kasson Township Planning Commissioners and told to name the easement so she could then have a mailing address. She decided to name the easement "GREENWAY" and it has been recognized by the US Postal service, FEDEX, UPS and 911 emergency services ever since.
Prior to her house being built, there were a number of 2 tracks, logging trails and pathways thru the property and adjoining vacant lands. Some of these pathways meandered thru the woods and eventually connected up with the next county road, Beeman Road. Once the landowner began to live back here full time she put an end to the trespass problems. The easement thru all 3 land parcels was in a very poor state with deep ruts, wash outs, large rocks, and erosion problems. The land owner decided to not use the easement for driving in each day. She instead chose to park her car out at the end of south gilbert road and walk in. The property is accessed from (county road) South Gilbert Road, which heads south 1/2 mile off of hwy 72 before dead ending. At the intersection of South Gilbert Road and Hwy 72 there has been a DEAD END road sign since at least 1990. At the end of South Gilbert Road there has been a ROAD ENDS sign since at least 1990. At the opposite end, Beeman road, there is a Seasonal Road sign and a NO OUTLET sign.
3. The Lessards purchased the property in 1999, and had to sign the private road document at the time of sale. Lessards contacted the Kasson Township zoning administrator with their garage plans. Permits were purchased, the zoning administrator inspected the sight, and permission was granted to the Lessards to build their garage. Note, this garage sits less than 8 feet from the easement! At no time did the inspectors, building permit office or any others mention anything about the easement possibly being a public right of way!
4. In 2000 the Lessards applied for additional building permits to build their house. The site sits across from the garage, on the other side of the easement. Again, no comments were made about the road easement from the building inspectors, permit office, etc. Permits were granted and the house was built.
5. In 2002 Rebecca Lessard appeared before the Kasson Township Board to ask for permission to create a non profit raptor rehab center and sanctuary. She discussed plans, goals, layout etc with this board. She was granted unanimous support and received a letter from the board which she used to apply for her federal non profit status. Again, no mention was made about the road easement by this township board. The flight enclosures were built, 2 of which are positioned less than 5 feet from the road easement.
6. In the past 20 plus years there has not been any maintenance done on this easement by the road commission. All easement maintenance has been done by the Lessards. In the past 20 years there has been no public use of this road easement.
For some reason the Leelanau County road commissioners have decided that this easement is now PUBLIC. Even tho the road commissioners have NO legal documentation they are still claiming this road is theirs, and it is "public by use". The road commissioners are stating that this easement was used by the public 30 and 40 years ago. They are also claiming that they have been maintaining it by removing brush, cutting limbs and putting down gravel. This is not true at all, at least not for the 20 year history we have with this property. According to the original certification maps, the road commission owns an easement down the section line, which would head due south from the paved portion of South Gilbert road. This easement continues for about 1/2 mile before linking up with the next county road, Beeman Road. This easement down the section line does not involve our property at all. The road commission already has a road, it is just totally undeveloped, which is the reason why they want our private easement...an already existing road!
The road commission recently enlisted the assistance of the Leelanau County Prosecuting attorney. The Lessards and Wings of Wonder have hired attorney Jim Olson for our legal representation. The road commissioners are using harassment tactics towards us now....we found out that they are sending car loads of people down here, telling folks to drive thru. My raptors and the safety of my sanctuary are all at risk. We now have strange cars driving thru our yard and down along next to my flight pens. Just last night, at 8:56pm a car came blasting thru here, driving at least 45-50 mph, actually leaving skid marks in the dirt for about 100 feet, as it sped alongside my flight pens, past our garage and our house, and disappeared in the woods as it headed down our private easement. My goodness, my dog could have been killed!
Our attorneys have decided to jump into action and we will be filing a claim against the road commissioners this week. We are hoping a judge will authorize a preliminary injunction allowing us to close and lock our gates once again. (At this point in time we have been warned by the county prosecuting attorney that if we shut our gates, and a member of the public gets injured, we will be held liable) Legal costs promise to be substantial, especially if the case goes all the way to court. At this point we have paid a $5000.00 retainer to our attorneys to begin the process. If the Road commission is successful at seizing our easement and making it a public right of way, it will most surely shut down Wings of Wonder.
I am extremely rattled, frustrated, scared, angry and oftentimes at a loss for words because of this situation. My husband and I have had a relationship with this property dating back to 1990. During this span of years there has been no public use of this easement nor has there been any road maintenance by the Leelanau County Road commission! We believe the road commissioners are attempting to seize our property and using force, dishonesty, harassment and illegal tactics to obtain their goal. I am reaching out to you, our supporters and WOW family.....Would you be willing to write letters in support of Wings of Wonder? Would you be willing to tell as many people about this situation as possible, helping us to spread the word? Would you be willing to donate towards the now necessary legal defense fund? Would you be willing to make phone calls to township and county officials, as well as to the Leelanau County Road Commission? Would you be willing to speak up in defense of the raptors? I am sorry to burden you all with this situation, but, besides hiring Jim Olson, I just don't know what else to do. I welcome any and all support. My heart-filled thanks - Rebecca
You can email the Leelanau County Road Commission about this here. Please put Attn Chairman Lee A. Bowen in the subject line.
MSU's Veterinary School to Stop Using Live Dogs for Training
Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine will no longer use live dogs for training in invasive surgeries beginning this fall after years of review and protests from animal rights groups. Click here for more info.
Have You Seen This Dog?
Parker is still missing. Parker is a 65 lb English Setter and only 16 months old. He was last seen on Long Lake Road in CHEBOYGAN (not TC). He is wearing a brown collar with ID tag. There is a reward so if you have ANY information please call Kristine at 231-625-0095.
Judge Orders Grayling Pit Bulls Euthanized - or Given to a New Family
Two dogs deemed friendly and loving by their Crawford County owners and workers at the Ausable Animal Shelter have been ruled dangerous by a Crawford County judge.
In a written verdict sent through the mail from Judge Monte Burmeister, the judge ordered the dogs to either be euthanized, signed over to the county, or to allow the Ausable Animal Shelter to adopt the dogs out. For more on the story, click here.
For a PDF of the judge's ruling, click here.
Traverse City Woman Rescues Abused Downstate Dog
A badly abused dog got a new lease on life thanks to a young, good Samaritan who couldn't turn away. A northern Michigan woman was recently in Detroit when she found the dog suffering from what doctors believe are injuries from dog fighting. Click here for more info.
Animal Behavior Helpline Online Counsel Request Form
Use this form to reach a trained behavior counselor at the Dumb Friends League, who will contact you by phone or e-mail (whichever you choose) to help solve the behavior problem you're experiencing. Expect a response withintwo to fourdays. This service is free. Click here.
New Horse Foundation is Forming to Provide Health, Nutritional and Housing Resources for Horses in Need
Photos courtesy of Holly Granken
MoonDragon Art and Photography
Dr. Tanja Molby, a Suttons Bay veterinarian with Equine Veterinary Services, is in the process of establishing the "Michigan Equine Foundation", a non-profit organization, to help the needs of Northern Michigan horse owners. Because of the economic conditions in the state, people are losing their jobs and horses are being abandoned and euthanized because their owners can no longer care for them. Dr. Molby hopes to provide food and medicine for the horses in need as well as resources so that horses can be rescued and adopted out to new owners.
The foundation recently had their first meeting of volunteers and supporters which included more than 20 very passionate and talented people willing to lend a hand to the organization.
On April 18th, there will be a fundraiser at Casalae Farms in Traverse City to benefit the foundation. The Equine Educational Seminar will have a silent auction, seminars, door prizes and more. 100% of the proceeds will benefit the foundation. Please click here for the event flyer.
The organization is also holding a drawing contest for kids ages 4-17. Kids are invited to submit a drawing of a horse or horse related scene on a 8.5 x 11" sheet of paper with their name, address, phone number and age on the back of the drawing. One drawing per age group will be selected and framed for the silent auction. A calendar of the winning entrants will be available for sale in the fall.
All drawings must be submitted by Friday, April 9th at noon to Horizon Book Store or Borders Book Store in Traverse City.
Here is a recent story about the group in the Record-Eagle.
The Michigan Dog Breeding Landscape
How many active breeders are operating in Michigan and how many are potential puppy mill operations? The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and members of the Puppy Mill Awareness Meetup of Southeast Michigan conducted a study of county licensed breeding facilities in Michigan with a goal of determining how many large commercial breeders are operating. This research project began in October, 2009, and is still in progress. It is based on all county kennel licenses issued in 2009, including breeding, boarding, pet sitting, grooming, shelters, rescues and more. As of February 2010, 45 of the 83 county kennel lists have been collected and reviewed (54% complete). You can find the summary of their findings here.
Information from this research can be used to provide data to key decision makers to demonstrate the need for caps and to encourage changes in public policy that will help crack down on puppy mills. This research may help persuade lawmakers that better regulation of large commercial facilities may prevent commercial breeders from coming to our state.
According to the study, out of 1,067 facilities reviewed so far, they found by far, Beagles are the most popular breed with 72 facilities. Of these, 59 were confirmed to be breeding facilities with under 50 dogs. Of these, 8 were confirmed to be hunting related. The next most popular breeds include: Labradors, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Hounds, Cocker Spaniels and German Shorthaired Pointers. All of these breeds are popular hunting breeds which suggest hunting related kennels are Michigan’s most common licensed kennel. Sled dog kennels also clearly dominate the northern county landscape.
What is a puppy mill? According to the ASPCA, it is a dog breeding operation where profit is given priority over the well-being of the dogs. There are at least 10,000 puppy mills in the US, and one-half of these sell directly to pet stores. Approximately one million puppies are produced each year in U.S. puppy mills.
Hundreds of thousands of dogs suffer in puppy mills in this country. They are prisoners of greed, locked in small cages, hot in the summer and freezing in the winter. They never get out of their cages to walk on the grass or play. They don't have human interaction to give them love and comfort when they are in pain. The only way to stop this abuse is to refuse to buy these dogs from pet stores or from internet companies. The demand needs to end to stop the misery of these dogs.
If you'd like to join the effort against puppy mills, please go to Puppy Mill Awareness Meetup of Southeast Michigan
You can also visit the Best Friends website and read about their "puppies aren't products" campaign.
APRIL 2010
Facebook Is a Great Networking Tool in Animal Rescue - Please Utilize it
There are several local animal rescue groups on Facebook right now but not nearly enough. I am writing this to convince my Northern Michigan friends in animal rescue to please make this networking tool a priority within your organization. It not only keeps your volunteers and supporters aware of all of your needs and good works, but it also keeps other animal rescue people and groups tied in with your activities.
The more we know about each other, the more that we can help each other. I have updated my shelters/rescues link with information on the groups who are on Facebook. I hope the rest of you will consider joining soon - and keep your pages current with information.
In addition to animal groups, I also see some local dog businesses on Facebook such as D.O.G. Bakery and Got Paws Pet Sitting.
I think it's a great idea for all of us to get connected and network with each other. I envision an active Traverse City pet community in the future and I think Facebook is a great way to get there.
MARCH 2010
Cherryland Humane Society's Response to No-Kill Proposal
As many of you know, I submitted a no-kill plan to the Cherryland Humane Society last year with the help of the non-profit group Michigan Pet Fund Alliance. This group offered to help CHS in the writing of a no-kill strategic plan (free of charge) as well as an offer of free grant writing. As of today, neither offer has been accepted.
Many of you have called and emailed me over the last few months inquiring about the status of the no-kill proposal and if CHS has had any response to it. After several emails to them, I recently received a letter from Mike Cherry, the executive director. This is the response in its entirety:
"The ongoing CHS "no-kill" initiative, including your proposal and those of others, are incorporated into the CHS long-range plan (Plan for Animal Welfare Success III, 2020, or P.A.W.S. III, 2020). The initiative is a continued effort and as it relates to the long-range plan, that planning is currently underway. It includes several related elements that are vital to the accomplishment of the initiative. Questions concerning the "no-kill" effort or any other planning efforts can be directed to the CHS Executive Director Mike Cherry at 231-946-5116."
I would suggest that you do what Mike Cherry requests - call him with questions. Some of mine would include...
• What specific programs are you implementing?
• How soon will they be implemented?
• Why will it take 10 years to implement some of your programs when it has taken other shelters only a year to be no-kill (this question is based on the fact that "2020" is in the title of their program). The Washoe County shelter in Nevada made a commitment to be "no kill" and achieved that status within a year.
• When will the final long-range plans be made public?
• How will you be measuring progress when you put your new initiatives in place?
Pet Sitters Network North Helps Animals In Need
Professional Pet Sitters Week Celebrated March 7-13, 2010
Pet Sitters Network North encourages pet owners and pet lovers alike to celebrate Professional Pet Sitters Week, March 7-13, 2010. This international campaign, introduced by Pet Sitters International (PSI) in 1995, seeks to educate pet owners about the advantages of in-home pet care.
This year, each member of Pet Sitters Network North will donate ten percent of their receipts for the week to an area animal rescue group, including Cherryland Humane Society, Kalkaska Citizens For Animals, Un-Cats Feline Rescue, Frisco & Joey’s Mission, H.A.N.D.D.S. To The Rescue, For Animals, and AC Paw.
Culminating the week, on Saturday, March 13, PSSN will be partnering with H.A.N.D.D.S. To The Rescue at Tractor Supply. Pets will be up for adoption from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Despite a slowing economy, demand for professional pet-care services remains high. For pet owners, at-home pet sitting provides a unique alternative to boarding facilities or having to rely on family and neighbors to check in on their pets. Pet sitting goes beyond simply feeding and caring for pets. In addition to basic pet care, professional pet-sitting services often offer dog walking, care of special needs pets, pet transportation services, overnight stays, and in-home boarding. Members of Pet Sitters Network North provide pet owners peace of mind by offering personalized pet-care services to meet your pet’s specific needs.
“Professional pet sitting has become an important service industry in the past 16 years. Many professional pet sitters put in long hours, seven days a week, 365 days a year, so they can provide personal in-home care for pets of all kinds,” says Patti Moran, president of PSI. “The tireless efforts of these small business owners and their staffs to provide optimal care to pets and their owners truly deserve recognition.”
“Members of PSNN continually strive to provide the best quality service to our pet-owning clients,” notes Marsha Wheaton, founder of PSNN. “We believe it’s important to see the industry we love be recognized on a global scale.”
To learn more about Professional Pet Sitters Week and how you can participate, contact PSNN member Sara Smith, Furry Godmother, at 231-947-2848.
New Best Friends Network Group Keeps Tabs on Animal Legislation
Animals cannot speak for themselves. They need people to be their voices for them. And now there’s a new group on the Best Friends Network that helps people do just that. The Network’s Advocacy for Animals group is tracking pending legislation – good and bad – that affects animals in states, counties and cities across the country. It’s a site where people can learn about current bills and proposed ordinances that impact animals in their own neck of the woods, as well as in other places across the U.S. It’s a place where people can learn how to lobby and find out how to contact their elected officials and speak out. Click here for more info.
To read about the story out of Crawford County, please click here.
Dog Shot in Traverse City - Family Speaks Out
A Traverse City family is warning neighbors – someone shot their dog. The animal survived, but not without expensive surgery. It happened on Beverly Drive, just blocks away from Silver Lake Elementary School. Shadow bolted out of the house when Ashlen’s sister opened the door. His owners figured he’d come running back like he always does, but it didn’t happen. Almost an hour later, the family found him lying on the driveway. Click here for more info.
Michigan Horse Welfare Coalition Forms
The Michigan Humane Society is proud to announce the formation of the Michigan Horse Welfare Coalition to address the issue of homeless horses in our state. The coalition held its first meeting in early January at the Capital Area Humane Society in Lansing.
Coalition members, which include animal shelters, horse rescue and breed organizations, equine veterinarians, individual horse owners, and compassionate individuals concerned about animal suffering, discussed the current state of affairs in Michigan and how best to assist horses and their owners in need. Committees were formed to create a statewide hay and feed bank, and to develop a comprehensive database of available horse rescues and sanctuaries and low-cost horse care resources.
The next meeting of the Michigan Horse Welfare Coalition will be on Saturday, March 27 at the Humane Society of Kent County in Grand Rapids. To learn more about how you can participate and volunteer—and to make a donation to the Hay Bank—please click here.
Metacam vs. Rimadyl - Options to Consider for Your Pet
I recently received an email from a reader who wanted to let me know about an alternative to Rimadyl that her pet was using. It's called Metacam. She said it was more economical and seemed to be doing the trick for her pet.
After talking to Dr. Jennifer Richmond at Northwood Animal Hospital, she told me that Metacam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain medication. The generic name is meloxican. It's used from everything from arthritis to post-op patients. It's usually dispensed in a form of suspension (liquid) but it also comes in a pill form. As with any medication, you have to find out what works best for your own pets.
Please check out the links below and talk to your veterinarian to see if this medicine is right for your pet.
Pet Food Pantry in Muskegon Needs Help
Donations at the Pet Pantry of Michigan in Muskegon have fallen considerably short. Pet food pantries help people keep their pets in their homes instead of having to give them up to shelters during hard times. This Pet Pantry in Muskegon has been hit hard lately with new clients. They serve almost 1000 families! That's just incredible.
They have a Pay Pal button on their website at www.petpantrymi.org if you are able to help them out. It's an easy and secure way to help out animals and their families. All donations are tax deductable.
Here other other needs that they have: kitty litter, kitten food, litter boxes and scoops, flea treatments, rabbit food, gerbil food, bedding, fish food, small animal cages and crates, leashes, collars, horse grain and supplies.
There is also something new and exciting going on with the Pet Pantry of Michigan! It's the new Pet Pantry of Michigan toolbar - once added to IE or Firefox,each time you shop at more than 1,300 stores (from Amazon to Zazzle!) a percentage of your purchase will automatically be donated to Pet Pantry of Michigan - at no cost to you (and you may even save money as the toolbar provides coupons and deals as well!). The toolbar also has a search box and each time you search the Internet, about a penny is donated to Pet Pantry of Michigan. Click here for more info.
Group Looks to Help Pets During Economic Downturn
One Benzie County woman is teaming up with a well-known area philanthropy to help an often overlooked segment of economic hardship; family pets.
Priscilla Woodley has started a Benzie chapter of Partners for Pets, and is working to raise money to purchase pet food, as well as collecting donations of dog and cat food. The food will then be distributed through Benzie Area Christian Neighbors (BACN).
Click here for more on the story
FEBRUARY 2010
Church Group Keeps Cherryland Humane Society's Dogs Active in Mind, Body and Spirit
As the economy gets worse, the number of animals needing a home goes up, putting an extra strain on local animal shelters and rescue organizations. Helping to ease some of the burden at the Cherryland Humane Society in Traverse City is a group of dedicated dog walkers from Unity Church of Traverse City. These volunteers show up six days a week at 11am (except Sundays and holidays) to exercise the dogs who are waiting for their forever homes. The walkers give the dogs a break from the confines of their kennels and a little extra love along the way.
Daily walking of the dogs gives them socialization, often with six different people six days a week, which enhances their comfort level with people. They love the exercise and opportunity to smell, walk, run and play when time allows. Program organizer Sue Schwartz says, "I love to see the great teamwork of the walkers, while they walk all of the dogs each day and delight in all the adoptions daily. It is truly a blessing to be able to interact with these great dogs daily."
The program started in August of 2006 when Minister Crystal Yarlott was volunteering at CHS and noticed Armstrong, a 12-year old English Setter with a limp, who stole her heart. The staff said that he wasn't getting enough exercise and that there were a large number of pets that simply weren't getting the exercise or attention that they needed. That gave Crystal an idea. She mentioned the problem to Sue Schwartz, a member of the church who is retired and that is how "Armstrong's Walkers for Unity" became a reality. Over the years, many more volunteers have signed on to walk dogs, both from the church and also directly through the humane society. In all, there have been 145 volunteers who have walked the dogs at least once.
As you would imagine, some of the walkers become adopters as well. We all know how hard it is to resist some of those cute furry faces that come across your life. Volunteer Lisa Preckel is one of those walkers. She has been a dog walker since October 2008 and saw Sheila, a 5 year-old lab/pointer mix, the first week she started volunteering. She had just lost her Katrina rescue dog, Sparky, and when she saw Sheila, she immediately fell in love. Sheila (renamed Leland) now lives happily with Lisa's other three dogs.
The dog walkers, in addition to providing love and attention, are known for pointing out changes of behavior or medical issues in the dogs which is very helpful to the staff. On a recent cold & wintery day, I came across a volunteer named Holly taking a walk with Tippy.
I was very impressed that even though the temperature was extremely cold, Holly took Tippy for a very extensive walk around the grounds. Tippy stopped in front of me for some belly rubs and a photo op, while Holly commented that she thought he might be a good agility dog because of his energy.
Because some of the dog walkers volunteer on a regular basis, they become strong advocates to find their furry friends a new home - and some of them even generously donate to spay and neuter some of the dogs. Unity Church of Traverse City even has a bulletin board with pictures of the dogs up for adoption and participates in a dog ministry where they will pray for a specific dog until it is adopted. The church also allows dogs to attend Sunday church services when they are under control of their guardian and on a leash.
The dog walking program is very organized and coordinated by Sue Schwartz. About five to six people a day go to the shelter to walk the dogs. If you're interested in becoming a dog walker, please stop by the Humane Society and pick up a volunteer application. After that, you will be scheduled for an orientation. The names of people who want to walk dogs are given to Sue and she schedules training for dog walking procedures. In the last orientation, 18 of the 24 volunteers wanted to be dog walkers so the program has become quite popular.
Crystal Yarlott thinks the dog walking program is so successful because of Sue Schwartz and people really loving dogs and wanting to help them. She says, "We are well organized in how we walk the dogs too, with procedures and mentoring, so people aren't left to fend for themself. They get called right away when they show interest. Also this ministry is a great way to get exercise! My arms are much stronger now!"
She continues, "A lot of people say they could never walk the dogs. "I'd want to take them all home." But we do our best not to get in that emotional space with the dogs, though almost all of us pick favorites from time to time. I always encourage a new walker to hold in mind that the dog we are walking will find a great home instead of feeling sorry for them. This helps us walkers too -- to keep our spirits up when we walk them. Pity never helps. Having a vision for them always helps, and I feel the dogs know we believe in the best for them."
Mike Cherry, Executive Director of Cherryland Humane Society, also applauds the efforts of the dog walkers. He says, "We are deeply grateful for the efforts of the Unity Church dog walkers. Their sacrificial efforts and commitment, no matter what the weather is, ensures that shelter dogs are both exercised and socialized, which enhances the animals' well being and adoptability."
For more information about how to become a Cherryland Humane Society volunteer, go to their website by clicking here or call 231-946-5116.
The Dog Breeds We Love and the Rescue Groups Who Care for Them
A lot of people have their favorite breed of dog. I've grown up with dogs all my life. I started out with Shelties (my mother's choice more than mine really) and then I switched to Cairn Terriers. Kind of a strange transition, you might think. The thing was...we were actually calling about a Sheltie/Cairn mix that we saw in the newspaper. Turned out Gus was mostly Cairn. But you know how it goes...cute puppy...darling eyes...it's not like you can turn your back on a puppy once you see it! So even though my first Cairn was quite personality challenged (I'm sure my friends and relatives would have other words to describe him), Gus was still the smartest & cutest dog -the best little character I'd ever met. So of course I had to get another one a few years ago after Gus died.
It's kind of like the book "Marley and Me" (the book, not the movie). In that story, Marley is quite the uncontrollable dog and a real challenge to the owners. But as crazy as Marley was, after Marley died, the owners went right back out and basically found the same kind of dog again. That's why I liked the book better than the movie - it had a much better ending. The decision by the owners to get a similar dog the second time around made me laugh because I did the same thing.
My newest Cairn, Jonah, is also a character, although much nicer, as my friends at Cherry Bend Animal Hospital would agree with. Jonah is still a challenge though. Smart as a whip, he knows more than 30 words and phrases...but somehow he still doesn't understand "stop" when he barks relentlessly at the neighbors going up and down the easement every day.
Whether rational or not, we all have our favorite breeds. You might be thinking about adopting a poodle right now - ONLY a poodle, a black one, a female who is younger than four years old. That's why petfinder.org is so great. You can look for a specific kind of dog and also one that is close to where you live - and save a life in the process. You can even sign up to have Petfinder email you when your choice of dog becomes available.
While I'm sure there are many reputable breeders out there who truly care about the dogs in their care and the bloodlines, I still recommend that people go to a local shelter or rescue organization first when looking for a new dog to adopt. There are so many of them waiting in shelters, some with limited time, so www.petfinder.org should always be your first place to look.
You might be surprised to know that there are even breed rescue groups out there who specialize in specific kinds of dogs. I think breed rescues are a great idea because the foster homes KNOW exactly what they're getting into and are very knowledgeable about the breeds that they rescue. They are also able to thoroughly educate the people who adopt their dogs about that breed's behavior, health conditions and more.
One such breed rescue group is North Star Border Collie Rescue out of Traverse City, Michigan, a group focused on rescuing Border Collies in the state of Michigan and the midwest. Many of the founders and board members are long time rescuers and herding dog owners. Part of the rescue's mission is to educate the public about the characteristics and traits of herding breeds. They primarily rescue Border Collie or Australian Shepherd purebreds or mixes, but they have also been known to take in other herding breeds that are in need.
Their focus is to give the dogs good foundation skills to be successful in their next home. They educate and support the adopters of their foster dogs and in most cases make a successful match of human and dog.
What are these dogs like? Versatility and intelligence are the best words that describe both the Border Collie and the Australian Shepherd. They do well in herding, obedience, agility, flyball, dock diving, and even dog sledding. They have a great work ethic, attitude, and are able to work and play all day as they were bred to work from dawn to dusk.
Border Collies tend to be quieter dogs than Australian Shepherds. Australian Shepherds will give a warning bark of things happening around the house. Both breeds can be protective and will nip while herding things. Border Collies and Australian Shepherds are extremely sight, motion, and sound sensitive. These dogs are very active and most require an activity to do daily.
As with most rescue groups, there are challenges involved with running a breed rescue organization. Sue Bouchey from the North Star Border Collie Rescue says, "as with any rescue, the lack of resources and running a rescue in several states can be challenging. Much of our work is communicated through volunteers over the internet. We do try to get Border Collies and Australian Shepherds to foster homes that understand the characteristic of the breeds and educate the public about them."
She continues, "Many herding dogs are given up at the time they start to mature and dumped into shelters where they do not show well. They are extremely sensitive dogs with many being sound, motion, and/or space sensitive. Because of these sensitivities, they do not fair well in confined, loud areas and could shutdown or being overly aroused. They need to be active to release the energy and taught calming skills.
The confinement can also have the effect in a dog to cause him to look as though he is 'bouncing off the wall' Many of these depressed or aroused behaviors disappear when the dogs are placed in foster homes. Many herding dogs are deemed unadoptable by shelters, or they do not show well if they are placed on the adoption floor. Many are returned when they are improperly matched with family lifestyles that cannot provide for the needs of these active dogs."
The dogs in this rescue organization come from many different sources - shelters that contact them, owners who can no longer care for their dogs, other rescue groups that are full, as well as volunteers and individuals throughout the midwest visiting or working in shelters and see a dog in need. The North Star Border Collie Rescue actively watches for herding dogs in need.
As with most rescue groups, there are always stories that stay in their hearts and remind the volunteers why they do what they do. Jack, a Border Collie/Retriever mix, was tied out for the first ten months of his life. As he grew, his collar became tighter and eventually embedded into his neck. He was waiting to be euthanized on New Years Eve in MO. North Star Border Collie Rescue pulled him into rescue when no other rescue would take him and began an eighteen hour relay to his new foster home as well as the slow progress of physically and mentally healing him from his neglect.
Dusty, a purebred Border Collie, was left at nine years old in a shelter when her owner passed away. They thought she would be adopted but the sad truth is that the older dogs typically don’t get adopted. On her last day at the shelter, North Star Border Collie Rescue pulled her and her foster mom fell in love with her and adopted her.
Molly, Australian Shepherd/ German Shepherd mix, was only 4 months old and was listed a few days before she was to be euthanized at a small rural shelter. North Star Border Collie Rescue had a volunteer in northwest Ohio drive to southern Indiana to pick up one tiny puppy that had only a few more hours and drive her back towards northern Michigan to her foster home.
Many of their dogs are pulled in their last hours. It is the dedication of the group of North Star Border Collie Rescue volunteers that has saved many dogs. Their volunteers have driven many hours and miles all for the safety of one puppy or dog with sad eyes that wouldn't see tomorrow without that one person caring. Every little thing they do makes life better for one more dog.
As their organization grows because more dogs are in need of homes, so does their need for money for proper vet care, supplies, foster homes and volunteers. They are also looking for an affordable place to hold seminars on training and dog ownership. If you are interested in finding out more about this rescue organization or would like to learn how to adopt one of their dogs, please click here.
Here are a few of their dogs up for adoption:
Bear (above) is an Bear Australian Shepherd. He is a 3 year old male purebred red miniature aussie. Bear is neutered, good with dogs and cats. Click here for more about him.
Kriket (above) is a 1 year old purebred Australian Shepherd. She is a mostly black and white blue merle with just a few patches of brown on her. She was pulled from a shelter in Kentucky where she was scheduled to be euthanized. Click here for more about her.
Dog Walking Program Introduced to Assist Area Dog Owners
Obesity is an extremely common problem, affecting 20 to 40 percent of American dogs. Obese dogs may develop arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and other illnesses. An active dog will have fewer of these risks and will be less susceptible to digestive problems, urinary infections, depression and insomnia. An exercised dog leads to a calm, well-behaved dog, but many of us do not have the time or resources to provide our dogs with the exercise they need, especially in the winter months. Sara’s Legacy Pet Sitters/Dog Walkers introduces a new program, offering an affordable exercise plan designed around you and your dog’s needs. For more information call 231.632.2877 or click here.
Cats on a Leash?
In the past, people mostly had indoor-outdoor cats. But those cats seemed to live shorter lives because of disease and other outside threats. Cat owners started keeping their cats inside where they would be safe and easily monitored. However, many cats still yearn for the great outdoors. My own cats, Neelix and Ali, often sit in the windows during the summer and in front of the patio's screen door when the dog is out playing. Part of the attraction is the birds, but they also like to soak in the wind and the sunshine.
What's a person to do when they want to keep their cat safe and still accommodate their cat's wishes to be outside? Lori Fasi has found an answer for her situation - a cat on a leash. She has two cats who love their walks - six year old Zghira (pronounced Zyra) who is gray and white, and six year old Maximus, a gray tiger with a big white tip on the end of his tail that he proudly displays when walking.
Lori originally felt guilty that she kept her cats indoors all the time, so in order for them to get some sun and fresh air, she started walking them. Cat walking is not easy, however. It takes time and patience. She started them out when they were very young with a good harness and retractable leash. Lori walks her cats primarily around her own yard but they also head out towards the street and one of the cats will walk around one of the neighborhood blocks. If Lori comes across a dog while walking her cats, Zghira will let the dogs come right up to her but Maximus will run the other way and then follow the dog when there is a safe distance between them.
Maximus is a cancer survivor. He was diagnosed with cancer when he just turned one and went through chemo and radiation. He is a real miracle. Going outside was always his big treat when he was going through his cancer treatments. Lori adopted both cats from the local Humane Society. She saw their photos online and it was love at first sight. She's had both cats since they were about five months old. She adopted Zghira first and then Maximus about six months later.
Both cats come running when they see the leash, however Maximus won't go outside very long in the winter time. Zghira will sit at the door and meow like a dog because she would rather go to the bathroom outside than in a litter box. If Lori doesn't respond immediately, Zghira will find her and continue to meow until demand is satisfied. Winter weather doesn't phase her at all.
Critics of cat walking say that it might make your cat become a "door darter" once they get the itch to go outdoors. You also have to remember that you cannot always control the environment so be ready if something comes up that might freak your cat out.
That said, cat walking seems like a good way to stimulate your cats, keep them fit and allow them to be out in nature. As with anything that involves your own pets, it's a personal decision based on where you live, your cats and your own situation.
Since I have a fenced in yard and one cat who is quite easy-going and adaptable to change, I might try walking Neelix this summer. The one thing I know for sure is that once he gets a taste of it, he'll be crying at the screen door all the time!
For more information on training your cat to walk on a leash, please click here.
Photos from Cherry Capital Winter WonderFest in Traverse City
The photos below were taking during the dog sled demonstrations and at the petting zoo.
JANUARY 2010
Top 10 Pet Poisons of 2009
With various dangers lurking in corners and cabinets, the home can be a minefield of poisons for our pets. In 2009, the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) in Urbana, IL, handled more than 140,000 cases of pets exposed to toxic substances, many of which included everyday household products. Don’t leave it up to Fido or Fluffy to keep themselves safe. Click here for a list of the top 10 pet poisons that affected our furry friends in 2009.
The Humane Society of the United States Launches First National ‘Puppy Mill’ Tip Line
To help end the misery associated with large-scale dog breeding operations known as “puppy mills,” The Humane Society of the United States has launched a national telephone tip line and encourages callers to report suspected cruelty or unlawful activities involving such breeding facilities.
The hotline, 1-877-MILL-TIP, is available to anyone with information of a possible crime involving puppy mills – but particularly welcomes information from those with “insider” knowledge, or from law enforcement officials who might be aware of such operations.
DECEMBER 2010
What is Michigan's Law on the Spaying and Neutering of Shelter Pets?
According to Section 287.338a of PET SHOPS, DOG POUNDS, AND ANIMAL SHELTERS Act 287 of 1969, a shelter "shall not permit a person to adopt a dog, cat, or ferret that has not been altered, unless that person has entered into a contract for the alteration of the dog, cat, or ferret with the animal control shelter or animal protection shelter." The animal has to be altered within a four week period. Click here for more specific info. on the law.
Networking With Other Animal People in Michigan
Do you want to connect with other dog and cat lovers in Michigan? Check out the Michigan link for Best Friends Animal Society by clicking here.
Doggie Daycare - What Its All About
by Diane Russell
I look out my livingroom window into the expanse of my back yard. I see two or three dogs racing across the far back area. I might see a couple puppies stalking each other or playing tug-a-war with a rope or what’s left of a stuffed animal. What is most fun to watch is the area around the picnic table. Over the years the dogs have carved a two-foot deep moat used as a racetrack around the table complete with tunnels under it.
They play “catch me if you can” at high speeds, then jump up on the table to declare themselves “king of the castle.” Sometimes a younger one under the table tries to join in and even succeeds for awhile before ducking back in. Someone eventually takes a water break and collapses in the shade of the house or under the Maple in the middle of the yard. The others follow.
Later, I see someone digging for something (Errr! Oh well, that’s fun too.), or a few are moving around the yard checking out stuff or wrestling with a willing partner. Sometimes they sit together looking out at the scenery.
When they start looking into the basement window or slider, I let them in for their nap. They’re excited to see me, but are more than happy to run into their crate and receive a treat. They’re out like a light and all is quiet.
After their naps, it starts all over again. Even though they have a wonderful time here, they seem to know about when their owner will be picking them up, and they are very happy to see her/him.
Owners tell me how nice it is to have their dog come home tired. They’ve have had a busy day too, and couldn’t possibly duplicate the exercise and socialization that their dog had. Even owners who don’t work, bring their dog for a more stimulating day.
Unfortunately, some dog owners feel they have to get rid of their dog because he’s just too much to handle or has behavioral problems. Exercise cures a LOT of problems. It is so satisfying for me to provide a more fulfilling day for each of my daycare dogs. I love this job!
Quotes from a few customers:
“My wildly exuberant rescue dog, Ellie, attends doggy daycare three times per week. The large fenced area at Diane’s Doggie Daycare & Training allows Ellie to run and play until she exhausts herself (a necessity for her well being)! During our time with Diane, I’ve come to understand that humans can only teach dogs so much—some things dogs must learn directly from other dogs. The environment Diane provides encourages sociable play—but is controlled and safe. Ellie loves being there! Having Ellie with Diane has been a blessing and has made dog-ownership a truly joyful experience.”
Cynthia Johnson, Interlochen
“My dog, Piper, a one and a half year old English Setter, has been going to Diane’s Doggie Daycare for about a year. What I like best is that she loves to go. She can’t wait to get out of the car! Diane is careful about the dogs she allows to come and introduces them slowly to one another before they’re allowed to play. Because Diane takes a small number of dogs, she can keep good track of what’s going on and is able to have enough space in her basement, (which opens to the huge fenced yard) to give the dogs rest time in crates and x-pens. I feel Piper is well taken care of when she is at Diane’s Doggie Daycare, and that makes me a very happy dog owner.”
Ann Schoelles, Cedar
“I can’t say enough good things about Diane and her doggie daycare. I have an 11 month old German Shepherd with lots of energy. Having a high drive dog like this means she needs to spend that energy in some way. She gets the exercise, socialization and manner training rolled into one day. She comes home very happy and content. It makes it a wonderful evening with her at home. I don’t think (other than training) I could have done anything better to develop her into a well rounded pet.”
Mark Gentry, Traverse City
You can contact Diane Russell with Diane's Doggie Daycare & Training by calling 231-943-0559.
2009 State Animal Protection Laws Rankings:
Michigan in the Top Five
In December, the Animal Legal Defense Fund announced the release of its fourth annual report ranking the animal protection laws of every state and territory of the U.S.A. based on their relative strength and general comprehensiveness.
Michigan is in the top five because of its felony penalties for cruelty, its definitions and standards of basic care, its range of statutory protections for most animals, its strong animal fighting provisions, and other effective laws.
Click here for more info.
Discounted Adoption Rates for Seniors
Purina Pets for Seniors program has once again invited AuSable Valley Animal Shelter to help its adopters, age 60 and older, with a $50 discount on adoption fees. They are happy to be able to offer this discount for the 4th year in a row! Please pass on this news to a "seasoned citizen" in your life who may be looking for a new best friend! You can check out their website here.
Great Photos!
PupeLuv Rescue in Michigan really knows how to make their pets sparkle and shine.
Click here to check out their animal pics. The "adopted" photos are also a great idea!
Diabetic Pets
by Sue Weston
Are you one of the many pet owners facing the possibility that your pet has diabetes? You probably already suspect it - the excessive thirst accompanied by uncontrollable and profuse urination, maybe weight gain at first and then the extreme weight loss. If so, your Vet will be able to confirm the presence of diabetes with a simple blood glucose test, but at first nothing about the future of your pet will seem to be simple again.
In our area at least, our dog Roscoe, was a unique example as he was only 6 months old when he was diagnosed. Of all the people I’ve shared with, I’ve only met 2 others with young pets with diabetes, the rest have been elderly. When we picked up Roscoe from the shelter, he was an emaciated, skeletal 11 pounds. There was no guessing as to what would have happened to him in the next few days – he would have succumbed to the diabetes or surely been euthanized. We gathered him up in our arms and raced him to our Vet. When the diagnosis came in, we had to make some decisions. Quite frankly our Vet thought we were taking on too much by treating Roscoe, but our hearts were already claimed and we embarked on the journey that has brought so much joy into our lives and that has also given Roscoe a chance at life he would otherwise not have had.
We were clueless, truly. There were so many things to consider, so many choices to make. What kind of insulin would he require? We didn’t even know what a vial of insulin would cost. How much and how often would we need to ‘poke’ our little guy? What size syringe should be used? Should we test his blood sugar ourselves; if so, with a human meter or an animal meter? What type of food should we feed him? What treats could we give, what did we need to avoid. Could he run and play like other puppies, or did he need to be guarded like an invalid. And… where and to whom could we turn for the answers?
Amazingly, we learned many of the answers very quickly. We found that there are numerous resources available. First of all your Vet will prescribe the type and amount of insulin and monitor your pet’s progress very closely; he will also show you which size syringe to use with the type of insulin being used. Some insulins can be purchased over the counter for a very reasonable cost; some pets must use insulin which requires a prescription and that can be more costly. As well, your pharmacist can be invaluable in helping to fill in some of the gray areas. Our Vet was honest with us from the very beginning – he had never treated a diabetic puppy. We could have sought another Vet with more experience, but we chose to work with ours and he was glad to work with us. To help get more information and answers, I joined an online diabetic pet forum soon after Roscoe’s diagnosis, and a vast amount of what I know is what I have learned from so many of those members who were ahead of me in their experience, and willing to share their wisdom, and so much more. These people are family to me; we have celebrated victories together and we’ve cried through the losses that touched us as well. Roscoe is a success story, very much in part because of our choices and resolve, but also because of the efforts of the many professionals as well as friends who have supported and guided us in the journey.
Although many pet owners leave blood testing up to their Vet, for several reasons we felt we needed to be able to learn to monitor his blood glucose readings ourselves, and so we invested in a human blood glucose meter and began testing him very early on. The glucometer itself can be relatively inexpensive; the strips can be kept at a reasonable cost by purchasing them online for almost half the price as what you find in the store. Your Vet can teach you how to test your pet at home (or you may refer to one of the many online demonstrations), but he may request that you bring in your pet for routine tests called ‘blood glucose curves’, which gives him an idea of how your pet is utilizing the amount of insulin over a certain period of time. Some owners opt for this, some actually do their own curves as well as monitor the blood glucose daily. Most pets quickly adjust to their testing and shots and accept it as a routine part of their lives – especially if they get a treat right after their shots!
Choosing Roscoe’s food was made through a process of elimination; we tried a few different brands and finally settled on one that we’ve used now for over a year and a half. As a diabetic dog, Roscoe eats two meals a day, the same amount each time, and they are spaced 12 hours apart, after which both times he also receives his insulin. The right amount of carbohydrates, fat, and protein in the food plays a big role in assisting the work of the insulin. Another consideration is the timing of exercise and insulin, something that is important but often overlooked. Although Roscoe’s blood glucose levels and consequently his insulin needs have fluctuated off and on since his diagnosis, he has actually been on the same dose of insulin now for almost a year, and his blood glucose readings are consistently in the acceptable range. That is a goal highly sought and greatly appreciated!
Of course caring for a diabetic pet can be a challenge, but the rewards are immense and well worth every effort. You need only ask diabetic pet owners who have plunged in and set their minds to managing their pet’s diabetes, enabling their pets to live healthy, vibrant lives. We have never looked back since that awful day when we first saw Roscoe in the shelter. Every day with him is a new adventure as we watch him at play with his brothers and sister, bouncing and prancing like every other 3-year-old pup. When he snuggles in with us at night, we pull him close and nuzzle his ears and his cute little pink nose; he is a treasured gift and we are richer by far because of his presence in our lives.
The Humane Society of the United States Launches First National ‘Puppy Mill’ Tip Line
To help end the misery associated with large-scale dog breeding operations known as “puppy mills,” The Humane Society of the United States has launched a national telephone tip line and encourages callers to report suspected cruelty or unlawful activities involving such breeding facilities.
The hotline, 1-877-MILL-TIP, is available to anyone with information of a possible crime involving puppy mills – but particularly welcomes information from those with “insider” knowledge, or from law enforcement officials who might be aware of such operations.