FR
EE
Southern NH & VT Fall 2019
10 Reasons to Adopt a Cat This Fall Lost Dog Travels 2500 Miles to Find His Way Home Tick Control for Next Spring Therapy Goats! The 4 Legged Friends Behind the Monadnock Coop
Inside this issue of 4 Legs & a Tail
®
2. Wag It Forward! Save the date for the 3rd Annual Wag It Forward A Nonprofit Festival for Pets on Sunday, October 6th 4. Time to Hang Up the Leash Sue Spicher As a popular pet walker, Sue reflects on some of her fondness moments. 6. The Four-Legged Friends Behind the Co-op’s Products: Red of Brookfield Farm Jen Risley 7. Seamus: The Dog Who Comforts in an Uncomfortable Situation Carol Laughner When an Old English Sheepdog, came to Monadnock Humane Society two years ago, everyone knew he had that special something
Pg. 2 10. Why is fall the most important tick spray of the year for you and your pets?
Pg. 14
12. Therapy Goats: Helping Students, Healing Hearts Karen Sturtevant 13. It’s a Small World After All Scott Borthwick A look at wildlife migration to our neighborhoods 14. Is Ignorance Bliss? Dorothy Crosby Sage advice to becoming a better equestrian 16. Collie Travels 2500 Miles to Return to Oregon Home Kate Kelly 19. Fact or Fiction, The Myths About Spay and Neutering 20. The Top 10 Reasons to Adopt a Cat 22. A Long-Awaited Reunion Marina Welch The story of Starr and another great reason to have your pet micro chipped 24. The Boy Who Loved Cathy White How one dog touched the lives of so many 26. When Things Go Wrong, Sometimes They Really Go Wrong OR The Dog With Too Few and Too Many Teeth All at the Same Time Sandra Waugh, VMD, MS 28. So You Think You Want A Wolf-Dog Hybrid? Skye Sosinski A few things to consider when welcoming a wolf-dog into your home
4 Legs & a Tail Volume K.319 P.O. Box 841 Lebanon, NH 03766 603-727-9214 KarynS.4LT@gmail.com Fall 2019
Publishers: Tim Goodwin, Tim Hoehn Sales Manager: Karyn Swett Graphic Design: Kristin Wolff
Pg. 22 If you have a tale about a tail or a photo that will make us smile, we’d like to hear from you. 4 Legs & a Tail is published quarterly and distributed free of charge throughout Southern NH & VT. 4 Legs & a Tail, Inc. is locally owned and operated and acts as a moderator without approving, disapproving or guaranteeing the validity or accuracy of any data or claim. Any reproduction in whole or part is prohibited.
www.4LegsAndATail.com 1
WAG IT FORWARD! S
ave the date for the 3rd Annual Wag It Forward: A Nonprofit Festival for Pets on Sunday, October 6th, 2019! This fall, Pet Food Warehouse presents the biggest dog party in Vermont at the Champlain Valley Exposition to promote visibility and provide aid to the animal welfare groups that abound in Vermont. Saddle up for a Wag It Forward unlike our past events. This year, head West with PFW for a day themed in all things wild, dusty, and frontiers-y. We are calling all cowboys, charros, ranchers, riders, rustlers, and wranglers to come together to make this nonprofit festival for pets our biggest bonanza yet. Both Pet Food Warehouse stores will close the day of Wag It Forward in the name of fun and fundraising. The gates for Wag It Forward open to the public at 10:00am. Want to skip the lines? You can pre-buy WIF tickets and pick up your canine waiver at either Pet Food Warehouse location now! Tickets are $5 minimum donation for adults. Kids 12 and under and pets are free! All
2 4 Legs & a Tail
profits equally benefit the participating non-profit animal welfare groups. Once again, we kick off the day with the 9th Annual VetriScience Chase Away K9 Cancer 5K. Registration begins at 8:00 am and the race starts at 9:00 am. Runners and walkers can pre-register online at https://runsignup.com/Race/ VT/EssexJunction/ChaseAway5K. All Chase Away 5K runners and walkers will receive free entry to Wag It Forward after the race with their race bib. Your dog can cool down after the Chase Away 5K with Dock Dogs thanks to the generous support of GlycoFlex by VetriScience. New to dog diving? Come over Saturday, October 5th at 3:00pm to get some practice in before wowing the crowds Sunday at Wag It Forward. If you’d like to participate in the jumps you can register on-site at 9am each day or online at www.dockdogs.com. A wealth of diversions will be running throughout the day courtesy of 802 Disc Dogs, MotoDog Training, Vermont Police Canine Association, Eden Dog Sledding, Sit Pretty Grooming Salon, and Burlington Obedience Training Club! Pete Powers and the Buzz Bash Crew from 99.9 will get us moving with Dunkin’ coffee and tunes in the morning and The Dog Catchers will be playing Rock, Rhythm and Blues in the afternoon. We’ll have plenty of local chow and libations- maybe hit the mechanical bull before lunch, though. Be sure to get there early to participate in our Western themed costume contest that starts at high noon. All are welcome to participate, with prizes for the Best Overall, Most Creative, and a Wild Card category. Create some paw art in the PFW Fun Zone to take home and Fall 2019
frame, snap pics in our photo booth and selfie spots, spin the PFW wheel for a free prize, and visit all the local groups that work tirelessly day in and out to connect the pet lovers in Vermont with animals in need. The event is generously sponsored by: the Pets Global Family of Brands: Essence, Fussie Cat, and Zignature; Glycoflex by local VetriScience Laboratories; PLB, Canadian manufacturer of Pronature brands of pet food; Sojos brand from WellPet; Triumph Pet Foods; American Natural Premium; Grizzly Pet Products; Healthy Hemp Pet; Heritage Toyota; our neighbors at Imported Car Center; Koha; Oma’s Pride; Petmate; PetSafe; The Honest Kitchen; our friends at The Pour House; Vital Essentials, and so many more! Without these partners, we wouldn’t be able to provide a no-cost avenue for local animal welfare and rescue groups to help raise awareness and funds as a community. We can’t wait to Wag It Forward with you and your pets on a beautiful fall day. For more details about the event, visit www.pfwvt.com/wagitforward. For questions about the day’s events, please email wecare@pfwvt.com.
Fall 2019
www.4LegsAndATail.com 3
Time to Hang Up the Leash
M
4 4 Legs & a Tail
y name is Sue Spicher - known as Pet Sitting by Sue with a car that has my advertising on it. I’m sure you all have seen it buzzing around town. I started my pet sitting business in April 1996, looking forward to doing something I would enjoy waking up to every morning. I found that pet sitting would be a great way to do just that. I would always tell anyone that would listen to me that you should make out a list of what you would like to do and another list on what you need to do to get there. Well, I followed my own advice for a change! I found that I enjoyed being around animals more than people and 23 years later, I’m still doing what I love. With only 5 clients, in the beginning, it grew from there. These 5 clients would tell their family, friends, and co-workers about their pet sitter and how happy their pets would be when they came home after work, a long weekend getaway or a couple weeks’ vacation. They also mentioned to them that I would bring in the mail, newspaper and any packages they had delivered to their homes while away. I would be outside with their pets to play with them, walk around with them and also keep track of their output. You know, you can tell a lot about how the pet is doing because of that. The pets loved the fact that I was there for them only. They were so happy to hear my car drive up to their home and wait for me at the door. Upon seeing me, dogs would do a happy dance and the cats would smell my hands to see if I was okay to come into their home. I started with dogs and cats and found later to take care of all sizes of farm animals. No, I don’t milk cows in case you were wondering - but I do feed them with grain, hay and plenty of water and the usual barn clean out, too. Yes, I do get my hands dirty! But I enjoyed it because I became Farmer Sue for a week or so. One time I went to care for some sheep, goats, and llamas and discovered a large black dog in the area but it wasn’t a large dog. It was a 2 to 3 year-old cub that was kicked out of the den! He wanted an easy meal and knew that I feed the livestock. So I laid on the horn to scare him away. But all he did was climb over the fence and sit by the tree, just waiting for food. I ended up calling the Fish and Game people to come and scare this little big guy away so Fall 2019
I could finish up on what I was supposed to do. They came and shot off a couple of rounds to scare him. That did the trick and I didn’t see him anymore that week. Another fond memory was feeding and caring for a litter of 15 puppies. They were so cute to watch. I would make a game of washing them up so they didn’t mind it so much. I would clean the area they were in, picking up soiled paper and changing their blankets too. After it was all done, they were so tired and were fast asleep on each other. The weeks that followed I was able to watch them develop into sweet and happy puppies. They would go outside to enjoy their meals and run around. While I was inside quickly cleaning their enclosure, one of them had gotten through the gate and wanted to see what I was up too. He jumped up on me and scared me. He started doing his play dance and wanted to play. I ran outside to be sure that everyone was still there. The rest had no idea that their brother was missing until I brought him back out. They all came over to check him out. After their inside was cleaned I would call them over to pick them up to wash and put them in to take a nap. 15 of them and they got heavier every day. I used to carry two at a time, but after a while I just had them follow me back inside to be cleaned. I would often wonder what other kinds of jobs would bring me this much enjoyment. Each week, I would care for different pets and traveling to and fro, seeing wildlife and the change in seasons. I wasn’t stuck in a building looking out the window wondering what it would be like to work for myself. It just makes you feel so good and happy. But there is a downside to this too. The pets’ life is so much shorter than ours and when you have to say goodbye it does hurt. I do have lots of great memories of the time I spent with them. I’m thankful for that. I wanted to thank all the people that I pet sit for and how much I enjoyed their pets, too. Each of them I loved so dearly. Now comes why I’m hanging up my leash and retiring. My husband has diabetes and has gone through so many surgeries as well as recovery time. I couldn’t be in two places at the same time. So I felt it was time to retire and be with him and my three dogs. So, on December 31, 2019 at 6 pm I will be officially retired! To all my clients of the past 23 years, thank you for allowing me to come into your home to care for your precious pets. It has been an honor to be trusted with their care. Thank you for understanding that I have to “Hang up my leash”! I do have some pet sitter’s names and numbers if anyone is looking for a new pet sitter.
Sue, from all of us at 4 Legs & a Tail, we wish you the best! Fall 2019
www.4LegsAndATail.com 5
The Four-Legged Friends Behind the Co-op’s Products:
Red
of Brookfield Farm Jen Risley - Monadnock Food Co-op
I
love shining a light on all the farmers and producers who provide a bounty of local food and other locally made products to our community. In this article, however, I move the spotlight over and down, from the business person to their four-legged friends -- the working dogs, cats, and other animals who also make these local products possible. Our next Four-Legged Farm Friend article highlights Red, an eleven-yearold Border Collie at Brookfield Farm in Walpole, NH. Farmers Holly and
Christian Gowdy operate a certified organic dairy farm. They sell grass-fed beef, organic hay/baleage, and garden compost. While Red has retired from working at Brookfield Farm, he still holds a very special and central position at the farm – as the star of the farm’s marketing materials. Last year, Brookfield Farm received a Monadnock Food Co-op Farm Fund grant to develop a new logo. We’re thrilled to see Red on their product logo now. “My son George snapped a picture of Red looking over our farm about ten years ago for a 4-H project,” remembered Holly. “We love this picture very much. It is the masthead for our website, as well as our farm’s Facebook page.” Before retirement, Red herded goats to help clear forested land for pasture. “He loved to work,” shared Holly. “His other favorite job was just simply keeping watch, making sure that everything was in order around here.” Red was born at Wellscroft Farm in Harrisville, one of the biggest working sheep farms in New England. With sheep farming comes Border Collies, well-known for their herding abilities. Wellscroft Farm has bred Border Col-
lies and placed their dogs in working farms throughout New England for over 35 years. “Red is not the first Border Collie we have had here; he won’t be the last,” Holly stated. “We love these dogs for their intelligence and instinct. They are just comfortable to have around livestock on a working farm. I cannot imagine my life without a dog.” Holly shared her favorite story about Red when a little piggy escaped and Red saved the day (Fans of the movie “Babe” will like this story, too.): Herding pigs is super challenging for Border Collies, especially if they are not accustomed to pigs. Red was not. It was a very, very warm day in August and a pig escaped his pen. We all tried to herd the pig back but had no luck. With the heat, our concern was stressing out the animals. Finally, I noticed that the pig was watching Red, so I had Red head to a cool shady spot and ‘get down’ -- sure enough, the pig followed and lay down beside Red. While Red stayed down, we quickly fenced them in together with some netting and got Red out and electrified the fence… there the pig stayed. Amazing! Learn more about Brookfield Farm at brookfieldorganic.com. Also, be sure to pick up a package of Brookfield Farm’s certified organic grass-fed beef the next time you visit the co-op. Know of a farm animal I should highlight in a future article? We want to hear from you! Please email me at marketing@monadnockfood.coop.
6 4 Legs & a Tail
Fall 2019
SEAMUS:
The Dog Who Comforts in an Uncomfortable Situation Carol Laughner - Monadnock Humane Society
W
hen Seamus, an Old English Sheepdog, came to Monadnock Humane Society two years ago, everyone knew he had that special something. He came to MHS at a young age after his family made the difficult decision to surrender him…he was more than they could handle given their life circumstances. He was so good-natured and happy-go-lucky! Even a bit … goofy. His new family could tell that someday he might make a great therapy dog, and they began exploring the possibilities. Bob Collinsworth, Seamus’ owner, works for the Monadnock Region Child Advocacy Center in Keene as a Family Support Specialist, and could see Seamus’ potential for helping children right away…especially those who are victims of physical and sexual abuse. Seamus and Family Seamus’ family was familiar with Monadnock Support Specialist Bob Therapy Pets, a small local group of volunteers who Collinsworth at Child put the power of pets into helping people’s health in Advocacy Center
Seamus at Child Advocacy Center
Continued Next Page
Fall 2019
www.4LegsAndATail.com 7
Seamus with Detective Mike Carrier and Forensic Interviewer and Program Coordinator Carlos Agudelo
8 4 Legs & a Tail
many places throughout Cheshire County. MTP was founded in 2009 by a professional trainer, Amee Abel. “Monadnock Therapy Pets has been supporting therapy dog work in the region for the past ten years. We’ve helped over 60 dog and handler teams become certified to make clients, young and old, feel better.” When Seamus’ owners reached out to Amee to inquire about Seamus as a therapy dog with a specific focus on children who are victims of abuse, she was encouraging. “Calm, comforting cuddly dogs can help a child overcome fear-whether they are offering reading assistance, or calming test anxiety, or helping a child recount a traumatic event. The power of that warm body and steady heartbeat is undeniable. They empower children. These dogs work magic.” Seamus was enrolled in a therapy pet class through Monadnock Humane Society’s Guinane Training Center where Abel teaches, and he completed the course this past spring. Now, he’s working towards certification with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs and will need to complete his internship, which he is now doing at the Monadnock Region Children’s Advocacy Center. In a short time, Seamus has already worked his magic in helping this population of children deal with extremely difficult situations and experiences. Carlos Agudelo, Program Coordinator/Forensic Interviewer at the Monadnock Region Child Advocacy Center says that Seamus makes a difference just by being himself. “Many times children arrive in a state of high anxiety. Seamus provides instant relief.” He continues, almost in amazement, “It’s visual! You can see how children come in and are uptight, and then Seamus sits next to them and immediately disarms them.” Agudelo has observed on many occasions how Seamus seems to be able to read emotions and is highly intuitive. “Even the caregivers respond to Seamus!” Agudelo adds that not everyone is fond of dogs, and in those rare instances Seamus remains quietly in one of the offices. Seamus being there fits in perfectly with the CAC mission to provide all victims of child abuse in New Hampshire a neutral environment where justice, healing, equity, and prevention are fostered through the consistent, highquality and sustaining collaboration of community partners. Carlos wonders how they ever did it without Seamus. His service to this population of children has been significant. Bob Collinsworth says that as soon as kids see Seamus – they’re hooked. “He’s simply a live giant Muppet who regardless of size is very unassuming and welcoming. Seamus is a gentle and seemingly intuitive dog who time after time knows which child is in need – and immediately goes to them.” When Seamus does seek out a child in need, he sits directly beside the child, either on the floor or at their feet, or curled up beside them (depending on their comfort level). Bob adds that “Seamus and the child continue to bond during the initial meeting, and he gives them something tangible and safe to touch that reflects needed understanding and unconditional love. He simply provides them with comfort in the most uncomfortable situation.” Once the child begins the forensic interview, which is an integral part of the evaluation process, Seamus will typically wait for the child in the family room. The forensic interview is always conducted at a pace determined by the Fall 2019
child and if at any point they would like to take a break and visit Seamus before proceeding, they are afforded that choice. The benefits of therapy pets are plentiful and there is much research to prove those benefits. Kathy Collinsworth, Executive Director of Monadnock Humane Society and also Seamus’ owner, has recognized this since she began working there three years ago. With a mission to strengthen the animal-human bond by promoting and providing for the wellbeing of animals, this healing relationship with CAC and MTP aligns perfectly for MHS, and she is grateful to be able to partner with both organizations. “Seamus is one of many therapy pets who are receiving training through the Therapy Pets course taught at MHS. Once these pets are fully certified, many times they continue to serve as volunteers in the community through Monadnock Therapy Pets.” Collinsworth also notes that being around the children is a wonderful experience for Seamus as well. “He loves to comfort the children. We can see in his face that he is totally enjoying the experience. He benefits from the relationship as much as they do!” Organization Information: Monadnock Humane Society is a private, nonprofit organization that serves the Monadnock Region, which includes 44 communities. MHS cares for an average of 1,400 animals each year with a staff of 28 and the help of over 250 volunteers. Its mission is to strengthen the animal-human bond by promoting and providing for the well-being of animals. MHS receives no state or federal funding and is not affiliated with any other agency or organization. It is supported solely by the generosity of those in our community. For more info, visit www.monadnockhumanesociety.org. Monadnock Region Child Advocacy Center is a program of the Granite State Children’s Alliance. Located in Keene, this Center serves children throughout Cheshire County. The mission of the GSCAC is to provide all victims of child abuse in New Hampshire a neutral environment where justice, healing, equity, and prevention are fostered through the consistent, high quality and sustaining collaboration of community partners. For more info: www.cac-nh.org Monadnock Therapy Pets is an organization with a mission to provide support throughout the Monadnock region for Therapy Dog teams, for facilities that welcome Therapy Dog visits and people who want to learn more about Therapy Dog work. For more info: https://www. facebook.com/MonadnockTherapyPets/ Amee Abel, motherapypets@gmail.com Fall 2019
“The Weltz Family Christmas” My son and daughter-in-law are involved with Pug rescues in the Clearwater, FL, area, and some of these are their own and others are rescues - either being fostered, getting ready to be fostered or in “hospice” living the rest of their lives in “heaven” on earth. Yes, we all had Pug sweaters on, too. Phyllis Weltz, Bellows Falls www.4LegsAndATail.com 9
FALL TICK CONTROL W
hy is fall the most important tick spray time of the year for you and your pets? Ticks mate in the late spring and summer, that is to say that during the fall the female ticks are pregnant and they stay that way all winter long. When the first thaw of spring arrives those pregnant ticks hatch more ticks. The baby ticks from early spring are called nymphs. The nymphs are dan-
gerous because they are the size of a sharpened pencil tip. A fall tick spray eliminates and reduces the overall tick population. Reducing the population in your yard is the key.
mend treating your yard to eliminate ticks through the late fall and starting in the early spring. Companies like Surf & Turf Landscape Specialist, LLC will eliminate eggs on contact, but it will always help to do a yard clean-up and Eliminate eggs that are eliminate leaves and brush from your deposited in leaf litter. yard. That way the spray treatment can Eggs are fertilized in the fall and access all surfaces in the yard so the deposited in leaf litter the following eggs have nowhere to hide. Remember, spring. That’s why we highly recom- ticks can survive in the winter. Stop the two-year life cycle from beginning again. Immature ticks, called nymphs, are difficult to see because they are so tiny (less than 2 millimeters). They feed during the spring and summer months. Adult deer ticks are much larger and are most active during the fall. When you eliminate the adult deer ticks before they can lay their eggs, or even eliminate the eggs before they hatch, you are reducing the deer tick population for the following two seasons. That means you may not see a reduction in the current season, but you prevented the cycle from continuing the following year. It’s important to mention that although you should spray for ticks in early Fall as soon as temperatures drop below freezing, you should continue spraying through late Fall for the best control of deer ticks on your property. At Surf & Turf Landscape Specialist, LLC tick-focused sprays adjust for the season and life-stage of the deer tick in order to eliminate and proactively reduce future populations.
10 4 Legs & a Tail
What types of diseases do ticks carry? Ticks are vectors for all types of disease, most famous in New England is Lyme disease. They can carry bacterial infections, Ehrlichiosis, Human babesiosis and auto immune disorders too. Cases have now occurred in half of the counties in the 48 continental U.S. states. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), with 95% of confirmed cases come from key states in the North East. Most recently and for the first time, a NH resident has tested positive for both rare diseases - Jamestown Canyon virus and Powassan virus by the N.H. Department of Health and Human Services, (Keene Sentinel article August 9, 2019). Both viruses are vector-borne with the Jameson Canyon virus transmitted by infected mosquitoes and the Powassan virus by infected black-legged ticks. It is widely thought that the majority of tick bites go unreported to doctors each Fall 2019
year therefore the CDC can not accurately account for how else tick bites affect humans and pets. Ticks are stealthy creatures that have developed an elaborate system to feed off human blood. Whereas other bloodsuckers like mosquitoes bite, suck quickly and leave, a tick’s goal is to stay embedded in your skin for days. To allow them to do so, they have specially developed mouths just for this purpose which makes it more difficult to extract the tick from your skin due to the strength of the mouth’s design. Since some ticks are relatively small (the larva can be smaller than a millimeter) there’s a good chance you won’t notice one on you. The tick burrows its head into your skin, unpacks its feeding tube, and spits out a saliva. Then it’ll likely feed for about 2 to 3 days, and, if it’s a female, it can swell up to nearly in double its normal size—which is useful for when it needs to lay its eggs. You or your pet can’t feel it when a tick bites, nor when they feed. For more information on protecting yourself and your pets this fall into the spring, please contact Nick at Surf & Turf Landscape Specialist, LLC: 603-363-9347 or SurfAndTurfLandscape@outlook.com Fall 2019
www.4LegsAndATail.com 11
Therapy Goats: Helping Students, Healing Hearts Karen Sturtevant
R
eturning to school after a lazy summer of sleeping in, water play and unstructured days bring mixed feelings: excitement at seeing friends and showing off new clothes and, for some, anxiety at the thoughts of new classrooms, teachers and routines. Anxiety, in general, or for a specific task, manifest in different ways for each person. Children are especially vulnerable. For some children, this manifestation displays behavior challenges. Often expert
12 4 Legs & a Tail
help is needed in working through these emotions and worrisome feelings. For the students of Ludlow Elementary School, that help comes in the name of Mrs. Martin. Amanda Martin has been facilitating positive change in the Two Rivers Supervisory Union School District (formerly the Rutland Windsor Supervisory Union) for the past 35 years. She has worked with children in small groups, in one-on-one dialogs, as a planning room supervisor and now as the school’s behavior interventionist. Her current role has her engaging with children ages 4 - 12 using her knowledge and skills necessary to assist in the application of positive behavior supports as well as providing classroom and school-wide behavior management strategies. Not only are traditional approaches implemented for encouraging academic success and addressing students’ challenging behaviors, but Amanda also has a secret surprise in her lunchbox––one that just happens to have four legs and hooves. A lifelong animal lover, Amanda surrounds herself at home with dogs, cats, chickens and a family of barn swallows who has recently taken up residence in her barn. Along with this menagerie, there is one animal that continually strums at her heartstrings. Students and staff of Ludlow Elementary were familiar with the use of therapy dogs as patient reading buddies and companions, which got Amanda thinking: if dogs can be therapy partners, why can’t goats? She shared her thoughts with school administration and before long in the 2018 school year, Stink’n Benjamin (Benny), a gentle Nubian Wethers goat, was visiting the classrooms once to twice a week. “The reason I decided to use my goats as a therapy tool was that some of the children I work with have either seen, been a part of, or a reciprocate of trauma. Trauma often triggers negative behaviors. These children need to find their soft loving side and receive back unconditional love, I feel that animals provide this. Children who shut down open up. They look forward to coming to school for their time with the goat, no absences on goat day,” said Amanda. When Benny got too big to be easily transported to and from school, he retired to grazing in the pasture and playing in the barn with his goat friends, Rose, Poppy, and mother, Petunia. The students often remarked how much they missed Benny. “The feedback that I have received from
Lily at School
children, parents, teachers, and administrators has been nothing but positive. We all have seen positive changes in many children. Negative behaviors diminish in some students,” notes Amanda. Benny was a highlight of the school day and for many children, his presence had a calming effect. Amanda explains: “They [children] love to take on the responsibility of being a caregiver, groomer, feeder, exerciser, and story reader to Benny. Children that you don’t usually see having smiles or bright eyes, can be seen on goat day.” With the void of beloved Benny, Amanda again approached the administration with the idea of purchasing a dwarf goat to continue Benny’s faithful work. As fate would have it, Amanda received a call telling her some Nigerian dwarf goats would be available in the spring of 2019 and did she want one. The next call came in early May: Amanda’s goat was here and needed a name. Staying with the flora theme, the little female became Lily. Amanda describes Lily as a constant bundle of energy, running, jumping and kicking her legs and feet in many directions while always managing to land on her feet. She also loves to jump up and over any obstacles in the path. Lily made her debut at Ludlow Elementary in the spring of 2019 when she entertained the children after being evacuated to a local community center’s gymnasium due to a fire alarm. Animals innately cast their healing spells on us, wayward humans, children of all ages included. “I have seen the teachers and high schooler come and get their animal fix, that softer, kinder self opens right up and puts happiness in their soul.” Lily’s twice-a-week schedule continued, much to the delight of her constant caregivers, until the end of the academic year. Not to worry. Lily will resume and expand her role as a lunch and snack buddy, reading partner and playmate at recess when school resumes in 2019. With Lily’s silly temperament, playful personality and sweet face, the students (and staff) of Ludlow Elementary will have yet another reason to be enthusiastic about the upcoming school year. Fall 2019
It’s a Small World After All A
Scott Borthwick
s the world becomes a smaller, more global environment wildlife has joined the transition. In some cases due to man’s interference. From Burmese Pythons being released in the Everglades to Asian Carp in Tennessee, to Snake Head fish, that breathe air and can walk on land, along the east coast. Yikes! Recently The Wall Street Journal printed a story about a rash of Alligators showing up in places they shouldn’t be. Chicago, Pittsburgh, Maryland, and a 12 footer named Fluffy that showed up on someone’s front lawn in Colorado. Yelling “Get off my lawn” probably wouldn’t work in this situation. Fluffy was not an intended release. According to the story it escaped out of a minivan on its way to a reptile show. Only a few years ago 2 were captured in a brook by the local Game Warden in Grafton, NH. The Valley News reported on an Alligator in Chicago named Chance the Snapper roaming the streets of the Windy City menacingly before being captured. I just read a story online about Black Panthers roaming around the British Isles. According to the story these large cats were a favored pet amongst the wealthy back in the 50s and 60s. But when the laws changed in the 70s people released them rather than complying with the law. Here in New Hampshire, we have had recent sightings of Mountain Lions in the Sunapee and Keene areas. Only a few months after the Eastern Mountain Lion was declared extinct. There was one hit by a car in Connecticut awhile back and it was determined to be a western cat that migrated here. Lots of people in Vermont talk about them as if they have always been here. I don’t believe you can declare yourself a true Vermonter unless you have seen one. Migrating here is one thing. Happens all the time. Wolves and Lynx are moving into the region. These instances are natural. But releasing wildlife into an environment they are not adapted to is unforgivable. My company received a call last fall from a landlord asking if we dealt with Iguanas. Seems an evicted tenant decided to leave it behind in the apartment unattended. Although we are not equipped to deal with such creatures we Fall 2019
were able to find a wildlife rehabilitator who took it. Not all exotic creatures are so lucky. There are plenty of dogs and cats that need adopting. I have been in the wildlife control business for more than 40 years and I have never seen a Mountain Lion, Wolf, Lynx, or even a Sasquatch but if you have we would love to hear about it. Photos, recordings, or just eye witness accounts. If you are interested in having us investigate please email us at ewc.srb@gmail.com Scott Borthwick owns Estate Wildlife Control. He lives in Canaan, NH with his wife Donna, two dogs, a couple of horses and one tough old chicken named Henrietta.
www.4LegsAndATail.com 13
Is Ignorance Bliss? Dorothy Crosby - Stoddard, NH
D
id you ever notice that the more you know, the more painfully aware you are of all you don’t know? And how, once you do know or become aware, it seems that the new thing surrounds you everywhere you go; suddenly everyone is doing it, struggling with it, or has mastered it long before you even attempted it?
14 4 Legs & a Tail
Have you experienced that as soon as you learn how to correctly use your body to accomplish that new task smoothly, suddenly another task becomes more difficult? It might be simple or complicated: haunches in, or running barrels, or a walk-trot transition. It’s as if all that concentration stole your ability to do anything else! Maybe going cross-country is your specialty, but somehow long-lining is so frustrating you are at wit’s end just holding all that stuff! Or you can ride the perfect leg yield, but you can’t seem to achieve even a mediocre one in-hand. No problem posting the trot; that’s something you’ve known forever. But then someone points out the “dancing knees” that Sally Swift emphasized, or mentions the rhythm and the tempo and suddenly you realize you don’t have it at all. But sometimes, if we are fortunate enough, once we conquer that initial challenge, everything seems to come together and becomes easier all at once; that’s the best and most fun scenario! Suddenly it seems communication is so easy; your horse understands what you are asking and offers a huge “try” with each request. Even if it’s not perfect, you are now on your way to success! (Your horse is probably screaming “thank you!” to acknowledge your accomplishment) Working on “it” becomes fun and your horse enjoys it too! Everyone has areas of expertise and other areas lacking knowledge and gracefulness - and often they fall right in line with our own preferences. We all make choices and become good at what we favor – or perhaps we favor what we are good at! Or, at the very least, we focus on what serves our purposes or is easiest. But we Fall 2019
need to remember that there are many disciplines, various experiences, and innumerable types of exercises and maneuvers to drive us to the task and challenge us even when we are at our best! Recently I was reminded that we define the levels of achievement differently, dependent upon our actual level and our understanding of how far we are from our personal ultimate goal. Q: How would you rate your riding ability? This is often answered differently by the rider than by various observers. A: “I am an intermediate” usually indicates that one has some basic knowledge, a somewhat limited idea of what is involved, and has ridden just a few times. A friend pointed out that a true Intermediate would be more likely to describe their skill set or experience: “I can walk/trot/canter and have gone on 5 trail rides and trotted over some poles…” because they have some standard to measure against. An untrained observer thinks you have amazing skills because you can demonstrate some impressive – to them – things they have no clue how to pull off. An experienced trainer may consider that rider a beginner because they are working on some fundamental skills and moving towards independence, but are not quite there yet. There is a continuum for sure, and where we fall on it – or where we want to be – can be quite subjective and related to our goals. One of my students told me a friend asked him why he continued to ride when it’s been so challenging and difficult, and he has to work so hard at success? His answer: “Anything worth doing is worth doing badly – or at least in a mediocre way I can enjoy and still strive for better!” Regardless of your expertise – or lack Fall 2019
thereof – it is imperative that we respect each person for where they are and support them in their endeavors to improve while increasing their knowledge and skillset. There are so many opportunities for learning: videos, books, youtube, online forums, clubs, clinics, professionals and programs, all with a theme or information to offer that will help us physically, mentally, and/or emotionally connect with our equine partner. Of course, there are always some phonies and crazies thrown in. To decide on the most gentle, humane, and least invasive ways to cooperate, communicate, teach and partner with our horses is partly individual and partly collective; we see and feel the best results when there is a success from happy humans and equines along the way. It is responsible and compassionate to find ways to connect the species so that we can work together, enjoy each other, and establish true communication and relationship. Surely learning is a lifelong endeavor! Perhaps even bliss! Owner of Equi-librium and based in Stoddard NH, Dorothy Crosby is certified as both a Level III Centered Riding®Clinician/Instructor and CHA English and Western Instructor. Director of the Riding Program and Barn Manager at Southmowing Stables in Guilford VT, she loves working with riders and horses of all ages and abilities. Recently certified with Conformation Balancing, a program for fascia release in horses, Dorothy loves the softening and changes in the horses. Dorothy offers clinics, lessons, workshops, and fascia release bodywork sessions both on and off the farm. www.4LegsAndATail.com 15
I
Collie Travels 2500 Miles to Return to Oregon Home
n the 1920s, a collie mix was separated from his family in Wolcott, Indiana, where the family vacationed the summer of 1923. Frank and Elizabeth Brazier and their two daughters, Nova and Leona, lived in Silverton, Oregon, along the foothills of the Cascade Mountains south of Portland. Driving their automobile, an Overland Red Bird, they made the long trip to Wolcott, Indiana, to visit friends and relatives, staying at tourist camps along the way. (By the 1920s, an increasing number of families owned automobiles. Along the bigger roads entrepreneurs built small bungalows to rent out nightly.) The Brazier dog Bobbie (named because he had a “bobbed� tail which was unusual for a collie) accompanied the family. The Red Bird had a collapsible roof, but cars of that time were primarily open air automobiles, so Bobbie could ride on the running boards or on top of the trunk strapped to the back of the automobile. Either way, he was free to jump in and out of the car as they traveled. Auto speeds at that time were slow enough that it was not difficult for a motivated dog to re-join his travelers. Bobbie Chased Away One afternoon Frank Brazier left the home where they were staying to take the car to the service station. As usual, Bobbie went along. Frank stopped to chat with the station owner, and Bobbie hopped out to do his usual exploring. However, three stray dogs took issue with the newcomer, and chased Bobbie out of the area. Frank Brazier was not particularly worried. Bobbie was fast and smart and generally figured out a way to circle back to the car no matter where he wandered. Frank remained at the station for a time, chatting with others who stopped by. After waiting for a bit, Frank sounded the signal to Bobbie. A couple of toots on the horn meant that it was time to get going. But Bobbie did not appear. A Search for Bobbie After waiting for about an hour, Frank decided Bobbie must have returned to the house where the family stayed. When he arrived, no one had seen Bobbie. Frank drove back to the station and waited a little longer, but as it got dark, he resolved to start hunting again early the next day. Unfortunately, the next day was the same. Frank visited stores in Wolcott and stopped in at the local tourist camp, since the family usually stayed at similar places. Bobbie was not to be found. Frank circled around and honked again at the service station, but there was still no response. Needed to Go Back to Silverton The Brazier family owned a popular restaurant in Silverton, Oregon, and they knew they couldn’t be gone much
16 4 Legs & a Tail
Fall 2019
longer. All they could do was leave word that if Bobbie returned, they would pay all shipping charges to have him sent home by rail. With heavy hearts, the family set off for the long drive home without their beloved pet. As they traveled, they left their information at the tourist parks where they camped. Perhaps Bobbie would appear at some place that seemed familiar. The family arrived in Silverton and reopened the restaurant. Life had to go on. What Happened Next To everyone’s amazement, six months later Bobbie appeared in Silverton. He looked very thin, his fur was matted, and he limped because the pads of his paws were bleeding from the long trip on ice and gravel. Daughter Nova and a friend were first to see him. The girls were on the street outside the family’s restaurant on February 15, 1924, when Nova grabbed her friend’s arm: ”Is that Bobbie?” With shouts of joy from the girls and yips and small jumps from the injured Bobbie, the girls and the dog shared hugs and kisses. Nova led Bobbie into the restaurant where patrons were surprised to see her bringing a bedraggled dog with badly matted fur inside. He limped slowly toward the back of the diner, only to be greeted by a cry from Elizabeth Frazier: “Bobbie!” With that, the community realized what happened—Bobbie was home. Finding Frank Frank worked the early shift so he was upstairs napping before coming down to prepare the next meals. The rest of the family raced up the stairs behind Bobbie who used every last ounce of his strength to bound onto the bed beside his beloved owner. Frank woke with a start with the first wet lick, but within seconds he realized that this worn-out dog was Bobbie. Bobbie quickly nestled down beside Frank and the two continued Frank’s nap until Frank knew it was time to prepare for the next restaurant diners. But of course, his first priority was putting out a good meal for Bobbie. While the family was elated over the return of their beloved dog, they couldn’t answer the question that bombarded them from all the townspeople: How did Bobbie get home? In a fairy tale, Bobbie would step forward and explain his part of the story, but we all must acknowledge that’s not possible here. What happened was the next best thing.
in 1925, Bobbie was a great local—and eventually a national—story. The national news stories resulted in an outpouring of mail for Bobbie and his family. Often the letters were just addressed to “Bobbie, Silverton, Oregon,” or “Silverton Bobbie,” and not much else. The post office knew where to find Bobbie and the Braziers, and each letter was carefully answered. Unbeknownst to the family, these letters were key to unlocking Bobbie’s secrets. Some of the letters were from dog owners who were particularly touched by the story. Others were letters of admiration for Bobbie. Some sent gifts, others wrote poetry in Bobbie’s honor…all were touched by knowing that Bobbie got home. Bobbie became even bigger news when he was featured in the syndicated column, Ripley’s Believe It or Not.
then we never saw him again.” There were two particular occasions when Bobbie stayed for a longer time. The first incident occurred near Des Moines. One night something must have startled Bobbie. He found himself in the rapidly moving water (presumably the Des Moines River). When he surfaced on the other side of the river, he may have been hit by a vehicle as he emerged from the water. He slowly made his way to a house where he pushed his way in through a screened door and found a friendly greeting. Des Moines Stop The Des Moines family wrote to the Braziers: “I am prompted to write you in the hope of establishing his identity. He made his appearance during the night and finding my nephew sleeping on the porch, he offered his paw to shake hands, after which he quietly went to sleep.” The family made over him the next morning and fed him breakfast. Each evening Bobbie returned to their home, but he spent his days elsewhere—perhaps scouting for a lead on his family. After several weeks with the family, Bobbie was better fed and more rested. The injury to his hip also seemed better. One morning the family fed him as usual, and when they let him out, he didn’t return. They were heartbroken that he didn’t stay, but after asking about for him, there was nothing they could do. Portland Savior His second long stay was closer to home. After many more miles, much bad weather, and almost certainly dangerous encounters, Bobbie arrived in Portland, Oregon, but he was in such bad shape he could not go on. This time he was taken in by an elderly woman who nursed him back to health and loved having him with her. Those whom Bobbie visited were in awe of his determination to return to his original family. Despite warm welcomes in several locations, Bobbie insisted he had to go on.
More News As time went on, the Braziers began to learn a little more about Bobbie’s travels: “Dear Sir: The enclosed picture appeared in an Indianapolis paper recently and I am wondering if I did not make the acquaintance of Bobbie last summer at my shack on the Tippecanoe River. I was sitting under a tree one summer day, when I heard a splashing in the river and running up the hill came a collie dog which I knew was seeking his master…” Other Hints of Bobbie’s Whereabouts Here and there, other news trickled in: “A dog that looked just like Bobbie stayed Piecing the Story Together around our tourist park for a few days… Continued Next Page
Bobbie Makes News Today local television news shows occasionally provide airtime for a feel-good “dog-and-family-reunion” story, but print papers rarely cover such stories. However, Fall 2019
www.4LegsAndATail.com 17
The Oregon Humane Society heard the stories of Bobbie and the letters coming in that seemed to trace Bobbie’s trip. The story fascinated those who worked there. How could a dog travel so far on his own, and how did he possibly find his way? The director of the Society paid a call to Frank Brazier at the restaurant. He offered to take the letters after the family answered them and let the staff try to trace Bobbie’s route home. The Braziers loved the idea, and the Society went to work. As they followed the leads in the letters, Bobbie sometimes circled around and occasionally was led off-track (as in a trip to Denver by automobile), but ultimately,
he pointed his nose West and did what he leash law. Unlike the rest of the canines could to track back through landmarks the in Silverton, Bobbie was given free range to travel the town as he pleased. Braziers passed the first time. The Braziers received countless inviSafe at Home tations for Bobbie to appear at various In the meantime, Bobbie received keys events, and there was also an intriguing to various cities around Silverton and was invitation from a producer who wanted to invited for a week-long appearance at the make a silent film of Bobbie’s life. Frank Portland Home Show, where they provided thought that was interesting, and when him with an elegant doghouse, complete they said Bobbie would play himself, the with it’s own white picket fence. People family signed on. lined up for hours to wait to shake Bobbie’s Today one reel of the two-reel film paw and give him a good scratch behind has been located and restored. The other his ears. reel is still missing. In the meantime, to The happiest event for Bobbie, however, see Bobbie in action as himself, watch was the Silverton City Council’s resolve some of “The Call of the West” preserved that Bobbie was exempt from the town by the Oregon Historical Society. One Litter of Pups Other dog owners considered Bobbie prime breeding material, but the Braziers moved forward with that plan cautiously. They finally agreed to let him father one litter of puppies with a local collie of good quality. Several handsome pups resulted from the breeding. The Braziers took one of the dogs as a companion for Bobbie. Pal became Bobbie’s sidekick. Bobbie died in April of 1927. The veterinarian that treated him speculated that the arduous journey took years off the dog’s life. Memories of Bobbie He was buried in the Oregon Humane Society’s pet cemetery in Portland. The doghouse/castle created for him marks the grave, and two hundred people attended the service. Today visitors are able to go behind the building to see Bobbie’s final resting place. A week after the funeral, the dog film star, Rin-Tin-Tin, made a special appearance. He brought with him a wreath that he laid atop Bobbie’s grave while photographers and reporters documented the arrival of the famous canine star. Today there is a mural in Silverton telling Bobbie’s story, and each year, the town continues to have a Pet Parade in Bobbie’s honor. The parade began in the 1920s, with Pal, Bobbie’s son, as the first parade leader. It has been held since then as a way to recognize the important of pets to people.
DA Brothers Dog Camping
18 4 Legs & a Tail
Fall 2019
FACT OR FICTION? SPAY/NEUTER MYTHS BUSTED
E
very year, millions of healthy dogs and cats in the United States are euthanized simply because there aren’t enough homes to go around. The ASPCA is working hard to combat the pet homelessness crisis, and spay/neuter operations are one of the most effective tools at our disposal. Spaying (female) and neutering (male) helps curbs animal overpopulation and has medical and behavioral benefits for pets—yet there are a number of myths, rumors and falsehoods circulating about this important procedure. In honor of Spay/Neuter Awareness Month, we’re here to set the record straight.
MYTH: Spay/neuter operations are expensive. FACT: The cost of your pet’s spay/neuter surgery is far less than the cost of having and caring for a litter! Plus, the ASPCA and many other organizations offer free or low-cost spay/neuter services for pet owners.
MYTH: Spaying and neutering is unhealthy for pets. FACT: Just the opposite! Neutering your male companion prevents testicular cancer and some prostate problems. Spaying helps prevent uterine infections and breast tumors, which are MYTH: Spaying and neutering will cause malignant or cancerous in about 50% of dogs and 90% of cats. Spay/neumy pets to gain weight. ter will help your pet live a longer, FACT: Lack of exercise and overfeeding healthier life. will cause your pet to pack on the extra pounds—not spaying and neutering. Your MYTH: Neutering will make my pet feel pet will remain fit and trim as long as like less of a male. you continue to provide exercise and FACT: Pets do not have any concept of monitor their food intake. ego or sexual identity, and neutering MYTH: Neutering will cause behavioral won’t change that. What might change, however, is that your male dog will be changes. less likely to roam away from home! FACT: Unneutered cats and dogs are An intact male will do just about more likely to mark their territory by anything to find a mate, including spraying strong-smelling urine all over finding creative ways to escape from the house. Unneutered dogs also have the house. Once he’s free to roam, he a tendency to mount other dogs, peorisks injury in traffic and fights with ple and inanimate objects. All of these other male animals. above behaviors may change when your pet is sterilized—which is a good thing! Neutering can help avoid some aggres- Similarly, spayed female pets won’t sion problems or undesirable behaviors go into heat. While cycles can vary, caused by a higher level of testosterone. female felines usually go into heat four That said, it is important to note that to five days every three weeks during there are no guarantees. Neutering does breeding season. In an effort to advernot eliminate the testosterone hormone tise for mates, they’ll yowl and urinate completely, nor will it negate any behav- more frequently—sometimes all over iors that your pet has learned or that the house! have become habitual. The effects of Spay/neuter operations will help neutering are largely dependent on your curb these behaviors and keep your pet dog’s individual personality, physiology where he or she belongs: in your safe and loving home. and history. Fall 2019
www.4LegsAndATail.com 19
TOP
10
REASONS TO ADOPT A CAT Adopting a cat is not only a wonderful way to support your local animal shelter, it’s also an excellent way to bring some cuddly love into your life. Here are the top ten reasons why adopting a cat is the right move.
#10 They’re Independent…
Cats are naturally independent creatures that require little supervision. This makes them the perfect pet for workaholics, city dwellers, people living in apartments, and the just generally mellow. While you can feel free to walk your cat, it isn’t necessary to their lifestyle.
#9 …Yet Cuddly
They may be able to take care of themselves, but cats still love a good cuddle. And unlike those 100pound pooches that think they belong on your lap, a cat actually fits there quite nicely. Plus, they are warm and fuzzy – so purr-fectly suited for snuggling.
#8 They Bathe Themselves
And it’s a good thing, too. Have you ever tried to get a cat into water? Not fun if you prefer your skin scratch-free. So they bathe themselves and leave you with one less chore – it’s a win-win situation for all concerned.
#7 You Won’t Need To Housebreak Them
In addition to bathing themselves, cats come into your life pretty much potty trained. You set up a litter box and with very little instruction they figure out how to use it almost naturally. Adopting a cat means never having to worry about getting home late and realizing you still need to go out into the cold, cold darkness.
#6 They’re Avid Hunters
Not a big fan of lizards, mice or giant beetles? Adopt a cat! Cats are skilled hunters that will help keep the bug population down in your home, as well as those hair-raising lizards, mice, moths, dust bunnies — and those alarming red laser pointers.
#5 …and Great Entertainers
Cats are more than capable of entertaining themselves with toys, boxes, drawers and the like. Give a cat a window (and window sill to perch on) and she’ll spend hours watching the goings-on in the Great Outdoors as she plots taking over the world and generally enjoys making the peons on the other side of the glass jealous of her glorious coat and pretty whiskers.
20 4 Legs & a Tail
Fall 2019
#4 Perfect Couch Potato Companion
Think about it. A cat spends about 15 or so hours a day sleeping. This means they will never make you feel guilty when you laze about on the couch eating a tub of ice cream and watching TV all day. In fact, a cat would love to just veg out with you. It’s a built built-in excuse to be lazy. Just tell the haters, “I’m spending some quality time with my cat.”
#3 You’re Saving a Life
According to The HSUS, somewhere between 6 to 8 million cats and dogs are taken in by animal shelters each year in the U.S., and 3 to 4 million of those cats and dogs are eventually euthanized. By adopting a cat today, you could be single-handedly saving a life. That’s a pretty big deal. And on top of saving the life of your own new feline friend, adoption frees up more space in the shelter for other animals, and the adoption fees help shelters keep running and saving even more animals. Adoption fees vary depending on the age and breed of the cat, but help cover pre-adoption veterinarian care and evaluations.
#2 They’re Saving Your Life
As if saving a life wasn’t a good enough reason to adopt a cat, keep in mind that your potential new cat could save your life, too. Having a pet has been attributed to significantly lowering blood pressure, as well as lowering the risk of heart disease. Plus, the mere act of stroking a cat for a few minutes has been shown to release “feel good” endorphins in the brain.
#1 THEY’RE AWESOME
You can’t argue with the facts. A cat is pretty much the most popular pet in the world (there are statistically more cats in U.S. households than dogs). They’re adorable, loving, easy companions that make you super happy (and healthy). So what are you waiting for? Head on down to your nearest shelter to find your new best friend!
Fall 2019
www.4LegsAndATail.com 21
A Long-Awaited Reunion
Star and Her Siblings
Marina Welch - Enfield, NH
A s a pet owner, having your furry family member go missing is a
fear. If it happens, your life is thrown into turmoil. Your life becomes filled with hanging flyers, scouring the neighborhood daily, and constantly feeling worried and scared for your pet’s safety. This happened to Jessie and her family at the beginning of 2018.
22 4 Legs & a Tail
Jessie was in the middle of moving and had to leave her cat, Star, with a family member. Amid the chaos and stress involved in moving, she received a phone call from her pet sitter saying that Star had managed to escape from a window. She rushed over to make sure Star wasn’t hiding somewhere and searched the apartment complex desperately, but with no luck. She immediately hung up flyers, posted pictures throughout social media, and spread the word to locals that her cat was missing. Star was spotted periodically over the next couple of months. Jessie even managed to get near her a few times, but Star always bolted before she could be caught. One night, Jessie nearly caught Star while hobbling after her on a booted foot she had just had surgery on! Shortly after that, things went quiet for a year. Star seemed to have disappeared forever. Jessie’s daughters never stopped asking about their beloved cat and the family was left to wonder what happened to her. Then, on May 22nd, 2019, the Upper Valley Humane Society posted on their Facebook page about a stray cat that had been brought in. They had named her ‘Mavis’ and asked social media followers to spread the word that she was looking for her family. ‘Mavis’ was then put on “stray hold,” a period of time for owners to find and contact UVHS about their lost pets. However, Jessie didn’t see the original Facebook post. Nobody contacted UVHS about ‘Mavis’ and she was put up for adoption. On June 4th at 10 pm, Jessie’s friend texted her and told her that UVHS had her cat! She was in disbelief but doublechecked. Sure enough, it was Star! Jessie
frantically called the shelter as soon as she could the next morning, worried that she might be too late. She had no reason to worry, as Star was still at the shelter and could be picked up that day! Jessie rushed to UVHS, nervous that Star might not remember her--worried that she might be a completely different cat now. As soon as Jessie walked into the room, Star jumped into her arms, hugging her, purring, and rubbing her head against Jessie. She remembered her family! With happy tears, Jessie took her long lost feline friend home. The best part of their reunion was bringing her daughter home early from school and having Star waiting to welcome her home. Her daughter’s eyes shone brighter than she’s ever seen them when she saw Star. Since Star has been home, she is the same cat she was before. She fell back into her routine and still climbs up on the bed to cuddle and lay on Jessie’s head while she sleeps. Jessie says that Star reminds her more of a dog than a cat with her antics! Everyone is still over the moon and a little bit in disbelief that Star came home after being gone for so long. The Upper Valley Humane Society is thrilled that they were reunited and that we were able to keep Star safe and cared for while she waited for her family to find her. We hope that this story inspires those that have lost their furry family members to never lose faith. We hope that it also highlights how important it is that we post on our social media pages about strays that are brought to us and put on “stray hold.” Through this vital protocol, we continue to unite families with their lost pets. Fall 2019
Fall 2019
www.4LegsAndATail.com 23
The Boy Who Loved Cathy White - Walpole, NH
H
e was one of seven English Labrador puppies, his rick-rack blue collar standing out against his light yellow fur. He was the mellowest boy, and oh, so sweet. We named him “Harry”, after the boy wizard who captured the hearts of generations worldwide. We didn’t know then that he would capture the hearts of generations throughout our corner of New Hampshire. Despite his mellowness, Harry was still a puppy; so our lives began with training. Lots. Of. Training. Though not a Hogwarts alumnus, his “higher education” diplomas were ultimately more numerous than ours.
24 4 Legs & a Tail
His accepting, friendly and comical disposition pretty much screamed “THERAPY WORK!”, so we chose that path. It was life-altering. Time, training and dedication go into preparing people and dogs for this rewarding work. After a dodgy start (failing his first test for being “too interested” in a dog he was supposed to ignore), Harry certified with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs on his second try in 2011. He cut his teeth at a local nursing home. When the elevator opened on our floor, we were greeted with a rousing chorus of “Harry’s here!” from residents seated nearby. He loved his visits there; once even coming home sporting a perfect coral lipstick print on the top of his head. A CCL rupture when Harry was five necessitated orthopedic surgery and slippery floors became impossible. No more visits with his eldest admirers. But new opportunities beckoned. The Monadnock Humane Society began a wonderful program called Paws to Read, where patient Therapy Dogs are the non-judgmental, listening ears that many young readers need to thrive. Dogs love the affection they get from the children, and children build their confidence without criticism. Keene State College also started an innovative program: Paws to Play. Therapy dogs visited freshman dorms weekly every fall, helping new students acclimate to campus life. These programs are still tremendously successful. We’re proud to say that Harry was there for both from the beginning. One KSC visit involved a Muslim exchange student. She had never touched a dog in her life. Ever. Despite her hesitation, she was ultimately convinced that
the dogs were sweet and friendly. She cautiously approached Harry. He lay on his side, absolutely still (not his usual behavior with KSC students!). Giggling nervously, she carefully reached out to touch the very tip of his tail but quickly withdrew. Harry still didn’t move a muscle. With encouragement and time, she was comfortable petting his flank, and ultimately his head. “He’s SO soft!” she exclaimed. The joy on her face was unforgettable. We were so proud of our boy! Harry continued working with young readers at MHS, libraries and briefly at the Walpole Primary School (a program that included three other amazing teams.). Unfortunately, Harry required CCL surgery on his other leg; followed months later with surgery to remove a non-cancerous eyelid growth. Our poor boy spent too much time in “the cone”, so we were elated when he was able to resume therapy work. He was ten years old. We couldn’t have imagined what was coming next for our wizard, though. Hadn’t he been through enough? Intermittent (an occasional unexpected “surprise”) vomiting/spitting up began. He’d be fine for a week or more, and then not. Two veterinary practices were consulted: medications prescribed, diet changed, comprehensive blood work done (clear from both vets), ultrasound and X-rays performed. Never fever or diarrhea. Every test was normal. But on Sunday, May 5th, Harry suddenly became lethargic, spiked a fever and had diarrhea. Our local vet instructed us to get him to a 24/7 ER facility in MA ASAP. He was there within an hour. Their GI specialist planned another ultrasound for the next morning. His fever was reduced with IV hydration and meds. Fall 2019
He was “resting comfortably” by nightfall. The next morning brought the same news, and it reassured us. But literally ten minutes later an ER vet called; saying that she “had some bad news”. Stupidly, I thought the news was a delay in getting his ultrasound done. But no. Harry was dead. I was stunned. With shaking fingers and free-flowing tears, I called my husband, Jeff. We rushed down to MA and found Harry stuffed into a cardboard box, bleeding from his right nostril, but still warm… What is the “worst” for devoted dog parents? Is the worst losing a dog suddenly without the ability to be by their side? Is the worst not knowing why they died, and not getting any answers at all? Is the worst wondering if he was in pain, or frightened, and dying in an unknown place? After months of reflection, regret and questioning our choices, (and those of the ER vets), we’ve come to this conclusion: The worst was losing him. Full stop. For those who have unexpectedly lost a beloved dog, and weren’t there when they passed, you know that it’s astonishingly brutal. For the first time in 30+ years, we weren’t there to help our beloved dog to the other side, with the comfort and love that he deserved. We were and are gutted. Rest in peace, sweet Harry. You impacted so many lives, but nothing compares to the impact you had on our hearts and our souls. We’ll love you always. “Mom” and “Dad”. Cathy White lives in Walpole with her husband Jeff and Labrador Pippa. Cathy is a Boston University alum, with a degree in Journalism.
Fall 2019
www.4LegsAndATail.com 25
When things go wrong, sometimes they really go wrong OR The dog with too few and too many teeth all at the same time! Sandra L Waugh VMD, MS
The green arrows point to the newly exposed incisors.
T
hese photographs are of a 5 month and 3 week old Portuguese Water Dog. The owner stated that the deciduous (baby) incisors had been present in the mouth and then came out, as they should. She did not actually count the teeth. By 3-4 months of age the adult incisors should have erupted - they should now be visible in the mouth. Instead there was an enlarged area of gum on both the upper and lower jaw, with small holes suggesting that something was underneath pushing against the thick tissue.
LEFT SIDE
Dental X-ray of the lower incisors and canine teeth. Incisor section enlarged to show the additional small teeth. 26 4 Legs & a Tail
The lower jaw was too short in comparison to the upper jaw. When closed, the lower canine tooth should be in front of the upper canine tooth. The enlarged gum on the lower jaw makes that jaw look longer than it really is.
RIGHT SIDE
Arrows: Yellow: Baby canine teeth. Green: Adult Incisors. Purple: Adult canine teeth. Pink: Horizontal small tooth pointing to the left. Red: Small tooth head on. Blue: Small tooth at a 45ยบ angle to the left. White: Small tooth angled slightly down pointing to the left. There are more small teeth but you get the idea. Fall 2019
Take a look at what was underneath that thick gum tissue. All of the adult incisors were present plus there were a number of miniature incisor teeth interspersed amongst the adult teeth. These little teeth were at all kinds of different angles. The upper jaw was the same story. What to do? Since this was a growing puppy, all kinds of changes can occur with the mouth and the teeth. My first objective was to open up the gum on the upper and lower jaw and expose the adult incisors. These teeth had the potential to erupt, as the bottom of the root was still open - the root has not completed it’s growth. The teeth were not aligned along the curve of the jaw, as they properly should have been. Some were in front, others behind. Rather than extract any teeth at this point the incisors were left in place and the gum was cut around them. Not all of the incisors could be exposed at first. Five of the six upper incisors were exposed but only the corner incisors on the bottom jaw were peeking their crowns up.
The green arrows point to the small holes in the gum.
9 days later, and what a change! Amazing how quickly this can happen in a young dog.
Also 9 days later. The upper and lower jaws have moved into a better relationship. The next step will be to see if those baby canine teeth come out on their own, or is more intervention needed? And more incisors might move into a better position. To find out, see the next issue of 4 Legs & A Tail. Dr. Waugh is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. She also holds a Masters Degree from Washington State University of Veterinary Medicine and is owner of Windsor Pet Dental, PLC. Fall 2019
www.4LegsAndATail.com 27
So You Think You Want A Wolf-Dog Hybrid?
Every wolf-dog is a complete behavioral gamble. Every wolf-dog will vary in the percentage of wolf content, and some “wolf-dogs” will likely have no wolf content in them at all, despite how they are being advertised. There will also be variation in the breed or breeds of dog that went into the breeding pair. Furthermore, because wolves and dogs do produce fertile offspring, there are also different generations of wolf-dog hybrids that can be produced. A wolf-dog produced from a 100% wolf and Skye Sosinski a 100% dog would be referred to as an “F1” hybrid. A wolf-dog with 50% wolf content here are a few things to consider would be a dog that would be unsuitable to when welcoming a wolf-dog into your own in a normal household environment. home… That is too much wolf, and here is why. Wolves are not dogs. Wolves are territorial and need to roam several miles every day, and the instinct to mark their territory is much stronger than with dogs. A mature wolf-dog may show increased aggression towards dogs outside of its pack, or worse, with human strangers. Wolves have stronger predatory behaviors than dogs, which makes them more dangerous around small pets and children. Humans have domesticated the predatory drive out of modern dogs, and it took centuries for humans to accomplish this. Wolves have different social structures than dogs. Wolves will reach sexual maturity anywhere from 1 to 4 years of age and will experience more significant hormonal changes than a dog would. When they reach sexual maturity, it is natural for them to challenge other canines or even the humans in the household. They may be more opportunistic about perceived weakness in you as a leader if you are physically or mentally unwell. Some individuals will always be ready to challenge your leadership. If you intend to keep a wolf-dog as a pet, it is strongly recommended that you spay or neuter them at an appropriate age. This may curb some of the animals’ dominance behaviors, but it certainly will not change the fact that they are part wolf. You don’t own a wolf-dog. No matter where the individual wolf-dog’s personality falls in the social hierarchy, be ready to accept one universal truth: you are not the boss of the wolf-dog. Though they are fully capable of learning tricks or behaviors, they tend to be more cat-like in their response, and will never reliably respond to such commands under stressful conditions. They will never look to you for guidance or boundaries. They will see you as an equal, and you will learn to do the same. Do not expect to win any obedience competitions! They are smart...really smart. Wolfdogs are active and curious and will need tons of mental and physical stimulation to keep them satisfied. If you do not meet their physical and mental needs, they will be sure to let you know by destroy-
T
28 4 Legs & a Tail
ing your things, howling, digging, and my personal favorite, pacing. Wolves are most active in the morning and the evening, so be prepared to burn the candle at both ends! Life is scarier for wolf-dogs. They seem to be more prone to panicking in a novel or scary situations. They can be massively destructive and difficult to contain. They are not above: learning how to open doorknobs, chewing through doors, scaling 6-foot fences, chewing through their leash and/or slipping the collar. My wolf-dog is constantly testing the integrity of his confines and has a fierce thunderstorm/fireworks phobia. He hates meeting strangers, and doesn’t even like being looked at by them, which is a tragedy because he is so beautiful! I never thought that I would be a wolf-dog owner. Being an educated dog connoisseur, I knew what kind of work and devotion went into keeping a wolf-dog hybrid. I am fortunate that my wolf-dog, Oberyn, turned out to be a wolf-dog with a low percentage of wolf in his heritage. That being said, I still observe many of the wolflike behaviors that I have described above and he keeps me on my toes constantly. I feel fortunate to share such a special bond with such a special animal, but I will never get another wolf-dog. They are trapped between worlds, and sometimes that inner battle between their genetics makes for wildly unpredictable behavior. Sometimes that behavior is silly, but sometimes that behavior will be dangerous, either to themselves or others. It is a major commitment when you choose to become a wolf-dog owner. Bear in mind that many wolf-dog owners do not keep them beyond the age of 3 years, which coincidentally aligns with sexual maturity. On a final note, know the law in your state and the local area. Wolf-dog hybrids are illegal in many states and require special permits to own in others. Skye Sosinski has been working in the Animal Care field for almost 15 years and is currently the Veterinary Technician Assistant Supervisor at the VCA Windham Animal Hospital. She enjoys studying animal behavior and dog training in her spare time, as well as spending time with her menagerie of pets.
Fall 2019
FR
EE
Southern NH & VT Fall 2019
10 Reasons to Adopt a Cat This Fall Lost Dog Travels 2500 Miles to Find His Way Home Tick Control for Next Spring Therapy Goats! The 4 Legged Friends Behind the Monadnock Coop