4 Legs & a Tail LK Summer 2022

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How Smart is Your Cat Saving Polka Dot Turtles Celebrate National Dog Day Ukrainian Dogs 5K for Furry Friends

Dog Days of Summer 2022

Inside this issue of 4 Legs & a Tail

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3. Celebrate National Dog Day Mark your calendar for August 26 and get ready to party with your best friend 6. Embryll Launches Cell-Cloning Service that Extends Pet's Life, Vitality 7. Wags and Wiggles Rescue to hold 5k in August Be parts of Newport NH's inaugural fundraiser this summer 8. 1 Simple, Safe Injection for a Year of Pain Relief Anne Culp Onion River Animal Hospital in Montpelier is the first clinic in Vermont to offer Synovetin OA therapy 10. Woodstock Dog Club AKC Dog Show Check out over 100 breeds at the annual dog show in Tunbridge, VT (7/14-7/17) Pg. 14

21. Summer Heat and Your Cat Expert tips that can help your cat beat the heat 22. Emma Donna M. Garfield How one cat changes changed one couples life 24. The Smart Dog Intelligence comes in many forms, but there are definite differences 26. A Dog Named Frankie Karen Sturtevant There's Alpha dogs, and then there's Frankie!

28. Good Boy, K9 Billy Karen Sturtevant A shining example of a professional police canine 34. 25 Rescue Dogs' Caravan from Los Angles to Maine Kate Kelly It's a road trip that David and Debbie will never forget 36. Tiny Terrier Detects Breast Cancer in Women How one Yorkie saved her owner Summer 2022

Pg. 7 12. Rescue Dawgs Sue Faxton How a couple of local entrepreneurs passion for food dogs benefit local rescue groups 14. Sullivan County Humane Society, Save a Stray 5k resumes in person in June 16. Healing Hearts at the Heart of it All Carrie Hamel Maisey finally finds her "fur ever" home.

18. The Charming Zarathustra Lives on in Fat Cat Art You may not know her name, but you've seen her cat-inspired work. Get to know the artist behind the canvass 20. Cat Intelligence Test: How smart is your cat?

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Inside this issue of 4 Legs & a Tail

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37. Working K9 to 5 Helps Employers Create Dog Friendly Offices A step-by-step guide for bringing dogs into the workplace 38. Ukrainian Soldiers Adopt Freezing Puppy 39. Hero Bomb-Sniffing Dog finds 150 Russian Bombs in Ukraine 40. Evening Grosbeak Catherine Greenleaf The beautiful seed cruncher 42. Save the Polka-Dot Turtle Julie Hoven You can play an active role in saving this endangered species 44. NH Passes New Law for Outdoor Dining Skip the doggie bag this summer

46. Anxiety in Dogs and What We Can do to Help Paula Bergeron 48. Kidney Disease in Cats Catherine MacLean, DVM Did you know 1 in 3 cats have renal disease. Does yours?

50. Riding: The Tangible and Intangible Sue Miller Get grounded, focused and readjusted. Get on the back of a horse 52. Letting Go...Again and Again Dorothy Crosby The recurring theme for many riders 54. "Can We Crash on Your Couch...Just For a While!" Jacques and Steph Du Preez The real benefits of fostering a pet

Pg. 50 56. Homeless Dog Finds His Way to America A homeless dog that brought comfort to U.S. soldiers overseas will now enjoy the good life 58. Preparing for Puppyhood A checklist of almost everything you'll need before you bring your bundle of joy home 64. The Cat with an Alarming Tumor Sandra L. Waugh, VMD,MS

An actual case study of a seven month kitten 66. Kid's Corner 10 year old Willow Wood and 8 Year old Harriet Sterling share their experience with pets 68. The Fun Page

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4 Legs & a Tail Volume L.222 P.O. Box 841 Lebanon, NH 03766 603-727-9214 TimH.4LT@gmail.com 2 4 Legs & a Tail

Publishers: Tim Goodwin, Tim Hoehn Graphic Design: Kristin Wolff Sales: Karyn Swett, Scott Palzer

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 Central & Southern VT & NH. 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.

Summer 2022

NATIONAL

DOG DAY N

ational Dog Day 2022 is on August 26 and we are getting ready to celebrate all our furry friends in the best ways possible! Can you believe that our furry friends have been with us for at least 14,000 years? Thank goodness for that because what would we do without man’s best friend? It is time to pull out all the cake and pictures of your pup and share your love for them with the world!

National Dog Day was first established in 2004 by pet and family lifestyle advocate Colleen Paige.

The aim of promoting this day is to raise awareness about adopting these animals who are currently in rescue centers.

In addition, on this day promote dog ownership of all breeds, pure and mix.

Embrace National Dog Day 2021 as an opportunity for all dogs to live a safe, happy and abuse-free life.

holiday was written into New York legislation and can be seen on the New York State Senate’s website.

To spread the word further, those that oversee the holiday have joined forces with many rescue partners, including The Human Society of The United States and West Coast Labrador Retriever Rescue. Together they draw attention to the number of dogs that are without a home and try to actively encourage people searching for a dog to visit an adoption shelter instead of a pet store.

Since the first day back in 2004, it is estimated that approximately one million dogs have been saved through adoption in the U.S. For dog owners that aren’t looking to add to their family, National Dog Day has become a day for treating their friend like the legend they are and enjoying the connection that we’ve built up with dogs over thousands of years.

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HISTORY OF NATIONAL DOG DAY Dogs are a man’s best friend for a reason, so why not celebrate them? These furry friends range in all different shapes, sizes, and breeds. There is a dog out there for everyone! Whether you like big dogs or small dogs, every pup should be celebrated on National Dog Day. This holiday was created in 2004 by Colleen Paige, a Pet & Family Lifestyle Expert and Animal Advocate. She created this day so that all dogs can be celebrated and also to draw attention to the number of dogs in shelters and to encourage adoption to those who have yet to find a place to call home. August 26 is significant to Colleen because it is the day her family adopted her Sheltie when she was 10 years old.

Since the first celebration in 2004, National Dog Day has grown and is now celebrated across the world. In 2013 the Summer 2022

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Colleen Paige, the founder of the holiday, also uses the day to draw attention to the multiple ways in which dogs contribute towards our society. From putting their lives on the line to help law enforcement track down bombs or drug dealers to providing assistance for those who need it, dogs play an important role.

Nowadays dogs can even identify cancer in patients.

National Dog Day has also been using its platform to encourage dog ownership of all breeds, mixed and pure, and continuously pushes for all dogs to be allowed to

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live happy and abuse-free lives.

National Dog Day is on an upward trajectory and continues to grow in popularity. It is widely covered in the media each year and rescue homes are the allimportant exposure they need to get their message across. Whether you choose to celebrate by volunteering at a rescue home, making a donation to a shelter, or by giving your furry friend an extra big cuddle, make sure you spend this day acknowledging just how awesome dogs are.

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Embryll Launches Cell-Cloning Service that Extends Pet’s Life, Vitality L

osing a beloved pet or watching them suffer through an ailment can be a heart-wrenching situation. Pets hold a special place in their human families’ lives, and their pet parents often will go to great lengths to prolong their pets’ lives and wellbeing. With this in mind, one innovative research and development startup, Embryll, is helping families with pets buy more time with their furry friends thanks to a cutting-edge cellular transplantation process that restores their pets to their youthful state.

California-based Embryll leverages oocyte-based reprogramming and animal cloning in creating its newly launched services aimed and extending the lives and youthful vitality of pets. Utilizing decades of research on cloned embryonic primary cells and cellular transplantation, the Embryll team has developed its process to transplant young cells into dogs, resulting in increased vitality and youthfulness.

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With the launch of its service, Embryll becomes the world’s first cell transplantation service that restores old pets back to their former young state by transplanting 170 types of young cells manufactured using oocyte-based reprogramming and animal cloning technology. These 170 types of young cells include most of the cells that make up the animal body, such as neurons, astrocytes, schwann cells, cardiac myocytes, cardiac fibroblasts, pulmonary artery endothelial cells, pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells, pulmonary fibroblasts, hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells, pancreatic islets, pancreatic fibroblasts, pancreatic stellate cells, renal epithelial cells, renal glomerular endothelial cells, thymic epithelial cells, thymic fibroblasts, splenic endothelial cells, splenic fibroblasts, adrenal cortical cells, adrenal fibroblasts, aortic endothelial cells, aortic smooth muscle cells, bone marrow mononuclear cells, etc.

The Embryll process can easily be done at an Embryll-accredited veterinarian’s office. The veterinarian will collect a tissue sample from the dog and then send it to Embryll’s laboratory. The Embryll team will generate a cloned embryo from the tissue sample using cloning protocols. The appropriate cells needed for the patient’s rejuvenation are then extracted from the cloned embryo and sent back to the veterinarian to inject the youthful cells into the patient. Because they are grown using the pet’s DNA, these generated cells will 100 percent match the patient pet’s DNA, eliminating a chance for rejection or complications while rejuvenating the pet with younger, healthier cells, helping the pet regain its youth.

The foundation of the cloning technology that Embryll relies upon is decades old. But in recent years, advances in oocyte-based reprogramming have rapidly improved cloning efficiency to the point where it is commercially available.

Once only something seen in Hollywood blockbusters, rejuvenation through cloning is becoming a reality, and Embryll is taking that next step in the history of reprogramming and cloning technology by bringing it to pets.

Currently, Embryll’s process is available for use in dogs. The team hopes to extend its services to other animals in the near future.

“Gone are the days when rejuvenation through cloning was only something fantastical made up by a Hollywood scriptwriter,” said Diana Rodriguez, Embryll’s chief communications officer. “Embryll’s future-focused team of researchers and veterinarians has brought the future of cloning and youthful vitality to us today, giving our pets a chance to benefit from it. Now families will be able to enjoy many more years of happiness with their furry friends thanks to Embryll’s cloned embryonic cellular transplant technology.”

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Wags and Wiggles Rescue to Hold 5K in August W

ags and Wiggles Rescue in Newport NH will be holding their first annual 5k, Strut Your Mutt, on Saturday, August 13, 2022. Wags and Wiggles is a non-profit dog rescue with a shelter located at 51 John Stark Highway in Newport NH. They have been a part of the community since 2016 and annually they average 120 dog adoptions.

Wags and Wiggles has a mission to find loving forever homes for stray and mistreated dogs. They work within the community to promote awareness of animal welfare and prevent cruelty as well as educate the public about the humane treatment of animals and encourage vet care and spay/neutering.

In addition to being a shelter for local dogs, they also partner with rescues in the Southern United States to bring dogs up from the South to find forever homes in the Newport community.

Wags and Wiggles is proudly a no-kill shelter so dogs are cared for whether through forever adoption homes or care provided at the rescue.

In efforts to help offset expenses from a smoke-damaging event to the rescue in June 2021 as well as to raise funds for staffing and dog care Wags and Wiggles is hosting this local 5k which will also be a timed event that is part of the Western New Hampshire Trail Series. The Strut Your Mutt 5K will be held at Newport Recreation Department, 65 Belknap Road, Newport, NH on Saturday, August 13, 2022, with a start time of 8:30 am. For details on the race and how to register please see the registration page for Strut Your Mutt 5K at: http://pinnacletiming.us/index. php?n=calendar. The first 50 to register will get a FREE t-shirt so let’s get out there and wag our tails together for this great cause!

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1 Simple, Safe Injection for a Year of Pain Relief

Synovetin OA Anne Culp, VMD

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ynovetin OA is a new kind of joint injection to treat osteoarthritis (OA) in the elbows of dogs. It works to break the cycle of inflammation and pain, improving mobility and providing long-lasting relief. One treatment can lead to up to one year of pain relief through a simple and safe injection. It can even help control arthritis well enough to reduce the pain medications your dog may be on.

What is Canine Osteoarthritis (OA)?

OA is the gradual wearing and inflammation of the joints over time. It is most commonly seen in older and larger breed dogs, but it can affect any dog. As this wear continues, the cartilage is broken down. From there, we see actual changes to the bone and associated pain. Over time this

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vicious cycle leads to worsening arthritis. Signs that your pet may have arthritis include slowing down or lagging behind on walks, limping, not wanting to jump up as much, and even crying out in pain.

How does Synovetin work with OA? The joint injection contains the active ingredient, Tin-117m, a microscopic medical radiation particle.

This ingredient targets inf lammatory cells like macrophages and synoviocytes. Not only does this reduce pain in the joints, but it will also slow down the progression of arthritis by decreasing inflammation.

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What is the treatment process?

We start by having a consultation appointment at Onion River Animal Hospital. At this appointment, we would go over your pet's history and physical exam and discuss the treatment process in depth. Two weeks before the scheduled treatment time, a current and accurate weight from your veterinarian's office is needed. Each treatment dose is made specifically for your pet based on this weight. On the day of the procedure, your pet would be dropped off at Onion River Animal Hospital. The procedure itself requires full sedation and takes about 5-10 minutes for the joint injection. Your pet will be able to go home that evening with the provided at-home care instructions.

What is it like after the injections?

Once your pet is home, we expect some discomfort associated with the injection and drowsiness from the sedation for 24-48 hours. We will be sure to provide you with the appropriate pain medication for that period if needed. Because the injection contains microscopic radiation, there is a short period when your pet goes home that they will need to be 3 feet from your torso for the majority of the day. This means not spooning your pet for that short time if they sleep with you or are constantly sitting on your lap. We know this is difficult for many pet parents, but it is worth it for your pet's comfort! Injections can only be given once a year. The long-term goal of this injection is to reduce discomfort, reduce the number of oral pain medications your pet is taking, and slow down the progression of arthritis. If your pet still needs oral pain medications, that is okay—whatever keeps them comfortable and living their best lives.

Where can this be performed?

Onion River Animal Hospital is the only treatment center in Vermont, with treatments being done by Dr. Karen Bradley and Dr. Anne Culp. If you are not a client at Onion River Animal Hospital, your veterinarian can refer you for the procedure. Feel free to give us a call and schedule your consultation today!

For more information about SynovetinOA, visit https://activedognow.com Onion River Animal Hospital 2386 Airport Rd., Berlin, VT 05641 802-223-7765 hello@orahvt.com Anne Culp graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 2015. After finishing her internship at BEVS she fell in love with Vermont and has been working at Onion River Animal Hospital since. Anne and her fiancé enjoy hiking and playing in the lake with their two dogs, Citra and O.G., and coming home to snuggle their three-legged cat, Brie.

Simon and Sally

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F

WoODSTOCk DOG CLUB A kC DOG SHOW

rom July 14 through July 17, 2022, we invite you to visit the spectacular Tunbridge Fairgrounds where you will be able to see 100 different purebred breeds of dogs! Sponsored by Woodstock and Green Mountain Dog Clubs, we expect around 1000 dogs each day show by their owners and professional handlers who come from all over the US and Canada with many local dog fanciers as well.

There will be 4 All Breed dog shows, 4 Obedience, and 4 Rally trials and on

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Friday, there will be a Best Puppy competition and an AKC Scent work trial. Junior Showmanship, where the handlers are 9 to 18 yrs old, will be held each day! They are the future of dog shows and are fun to watch. The Best Veteran competition will be Saturday and during Group judging on Thursday and Friday around 3 pm, there will be an ice cream social! Saturday night there will be the always popular BBQ with a Beer tent and live music. Tickets for this are available at the show.

Any day you plan to attend, there will be plenty to do and parking is complimentary!

Come see your favorite breeds, and meet new breeds! Talk to dog fanciers and learn about the sport of dog showing, obedience, and rally trials. Vendors will be on hand with dog and human-related items. Food vendors will provide the necessary nourishment with Maple Creamees for dessert!!

Dog shows are an important element in preserving and promoting Purebred dogs. Judges evaluate breeding stock based on the “Standard” for the breed. It outlines exactly what a Golden Retriever should look like, for example. Breeders are responsible for maintaining the integrity of their breed so the dogs we love will be around for lifetimes to come. They also health test the parents and have decades of research projects to ensure you are getting a healthy, well-bred dog.

Responsible breeders do not fill shelters… quite the opposite. Purebred dog breeders work tirelessly to keep their breed out of the shelters and rescues. Responsible breeders take their dogs back at any time for any reason, no questions asked. One of the many

Great Dane showing Obedience

reasons there are so many “rescuable dogs” is that people buy them. Supply and demand. These “breeders” are irresponsible and breed without any health testing, just for the money. Rescue organizations will buy dogs from them to turn around and sell to the public.

The Woodstock Dog Club has been a member of AKC since 1957. We hold monthly meetings with speakers and presentations of interest to our members. Most recently, we learned about AKC Scentwork, the newest addition to Performance Events. We also had one of the Vermont State Police K9 teams come to talk to us about how the dogs are trained and what they do to help the VSP officers. Annually, we hold health testing clinics for all dogs. To learn more about our club, visit our Facebook page https://www. facebook.com/Woodstock-DogClub-224941750864549/ or website http://woodstockdogclub.org for more information.

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Sue Faxon - S. Charlestown, NH

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s I start to write this story, a Texas rescue dog is pawing at me to rub her stomach. Her name is Rosie. Rosie and I first met when I watched her walking out of a Texas transport. Tears welled up in my eyes seeing every dog leave that transport! A new environment with the hope of chance. What can be more emotional? For years, I have followed groups online that saves dogs from high kill shelters and we are grateful to have found LabAdore Retriever Rescue Inc. which in return, found us Rosie! It’s so hard for me to understand how, in this country of ours, high kill shelters still remain and what I could do to help rescue more dogs and give them a happy, healthy and safe permanent home.

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Rosie

We are a pretty busy household. Brendon, my partner for over 15 years, has a very desired concrete business. That alone keeps us busy as a local business.

As a joke a year ago, someone sent us a food trailer for sale ad. We thought we’d just go look at it, out of curiosity, but once

we saw the large smoker on the back, we immediately knew that this trailer was how we could make a difference and help our vision towards our fellow canines. We realized food service was more work but we were optimistic in believing we could pull it off. Most food trailers that serve hot dogs name their business something that corresponds and before we even went to look at the food trailer, I had already thought of a name. As we towed our new food trailer home, Rescue Dawgs was on its way to being born!

We started the legal process to get Rescue Dawgs cooking. There are many hoops to jump through but there was a clear vision in my mind to see those large letters on our food truck, driving down the road, spelling out RESCUE DAWGS. Words do plant “rescue seeds” in peoples minds and I thought if people read our truck name, they will immediately associate the name with rescuing dogs...or at least start the conversation of why the spelling was that way. My goal in having this food truck was to donate portions of our sales to help those southern rescues. I don’t know if Brendon’s thoughts were still on the smoker, but he was all in!

Well, the day finally came and we opened up Rescue Dawgs in the field below our house in South Charlestown.

We served our pulled pork sandwiches with coleslaw and pickled onions, homemade mac & cheese, hotdogs, hamburgers and hand cut fries. On Sundays, we served really great breakfast sandwiches, homemade donuts and cinnamon buns. People came. People ate. And they really seemed to enjoy our food. Then the lettering finally arrived and was applied to the side of the food truck by our window and it was beautiful! But the other side needed to be much larger to be seen while driving it on the road. We parked there for a few weeks, selling our food and as word started to make it’s way around the area, we started being invited to rescue events!

We’ve met some great people and beautiful rescue dogs in such a short Summer 2022

Not Rosie's Dinner

time with our food truck. We’ve heard wonderful stories and some sad stories that turned out happy! We’ve seen how special rescuers are and how lucky and deserving these new pets are. We acquired regular customers who became friends and saw lots of our family. Food really does bond us together. Our customers have made this possible and a huge thanks goes out to every one of them that have shown us support. You know who you are!

Once we started attending events with our food truck, we started reaching out to more rescues to donate part of our sales. There are some great rescues out there and the compassion of its members is heartwarming. Our first rescue event was at Wags and Wiggles in New port, NH. We stayed so busy that night and loved that everyone was enjoying our food. We recently attended an event for Potters Angels without the trailer and again, met really great people and beautiful dogs. We of course stay in touch with LabAdore Retrievers Rescue Inc., another great bunch of rescuers. We have also been able to donate to struggling Texas rescues and other local rescues.

Though only a part-time food truck, we were able to donate quite generously.

We also sponsored a Fall Mountain football dinner and held fundraisers for the volleyball and football programs there and donated to the Caring Paws fund at the Westminster Animal Hospital which helps pet owners who need assistance with their vet bills. We have been asked to be at a retirement party where the host has asked guests, in lieu of gifts to donate to rescue groups he had chosen.

There are so many ways to help. I hope we can inspire folks of all ages.

We are ready to start the season with our food truck! We have events booked Summer 2022

through the summer. Occasionally, we want to open back up in our field. There are hours of prep and hours of actual time while we are open. Honestly, it can be exhausting. But to some degree this is a labor of love. We are always learning. Through this whole process, we found out how we could help. If you follow us on Facebook, you’ll be able to see where we are. Rescue Dawgs Smoke and Grill Food Truck. We hope to see you and your family - 2 legged or 4 and remember: You’re not just eating some great food, but you’re helping a rescue dog find it’s permanent home of love, like we did with Rosie!

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Sullivan County Humane Society

Save a Stray 5K resumes in person for 2022!

Susan Tarczewski - Claremont, NH

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ike other organizations across the world, Sullivan County Humane Society’s operations were thrown into disarray early in 2020. The inability to congregate in person affected not only the hours we were able to be open to the public but nearly all of our planned fundraising events for the year. Our skillful team was able to pivot to a virtual format for our annual Save a Stray 5K race.

The generosity of our sponsors and individual supporters raised $7921.00 through our 2020 SCHS Virtual 5K, badly needed funds that helped us keep going throughout the pandemic. For 2022, however, we are delighted to announce that our race will be back in person!

The SCHS Save a Stray 5K is a road race through the beautiful historic Corbin Covered Bridge on Corbin Road in Newport, NH. A $50.00 cash prize will be awarded to the top male and female finishers. Awards will be given to the top 3 male and female finishers. Not a runner? No problem!

Many folks who take part walk the race route. If you are unable to come in person but would still like to donate, you may do so by going to our GoFundMe page and choosing a team to support.

Post-race festivities include a BBQ, raffle prizes, and an award ceremony. In addition, we welcome your four-legged friends to participate with you. Dogs must be leashed and will start at the back of the pack.

Donations will be used toward the SCHS goal of improving the quality Summer 2022

of life for animals within our county and putting an end to animal overpopulation, abandonment, and neglect.

Through responsible adoptions, we will find homeless animals' new forever homes. Through humane education, we will teach responsible ownership.

Through low-cost spay/neuter programs we will limit the number of litters born in our county and therefore decrease the numbers surrendered.

Sullivan County Humane Society’s 8th Annual SCHS Save a Stray 5K will take place on June 25th, 2022 at 10:00 AM. To register go to: www.pinnaclestrive.com.

The pre-registration cost is $25.00. Online registration ends Thursday, June 23, 2022, at 5:00 pm. If you miss the online deadline, no worries! You may also choose same-day registration, which opens at 8:30 on race day and costs $30.00.

Additional information about the race can be found here: www.sullivancountyhumanesociety.org/ Save-A-Stray-5K If you have any questions about our 5k, other upcoming fundraisers like our May 22 Bingo, or about issues to do with your pets, please call the Sullivan Human Society. Our mission is to preserve, protect, and provide for stray, neglected, and abused animals in Sullivan County, NH. Donations to the shelter are always needed, always welcome, and can be mailed to PO Box 111, Claremont NH 03743. SCHS is a no-kill shelter, and provides many services to the public, including regular low-cost spay and neuter clinics, and a pet food bank.

For more information about SCHS, please visit our website at sullivancountyhumanesociety.org or our Facebook page, Sullivan County Humane Society of NH. We look forward to seeing you in person on race day!

Pearl at home in Grantham

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Healing Hearts at the Heart of it All Carrie Hamel - Upper Valley Humane Society

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o matter what the Upper Valley Humane Society staff and volunteers are doing, they are all in! From adoptions to veterinary care, and pet food pantry to rehoming services, the passion, and talents of our staff and volunteers can't be overstated. Their spirit creates an energizing atmosphere filled with teamwork, kindness, laughter and unconditional love for the animals in our care. Animals like Maisey.

Maisey, a dainty, green-eyed black and white cat, arrived at UVHS last fall just as the colder weather was approaching. We learned she was a stray trying to survive in a neighborhood in Hartford, VT. As is often common, people in the neighborhood simply thought she was

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a new cat in town and had a safe home.

She was wearing a collar after all. However, as winter quickly approached, an animal-loving neighbor (let’s call her Sarah) noticed the cat becoming alarmingly thinner. In fact, the light blue collar was now hanging so loose it looked more like a necklace!

Sarah knew this cat needed help and was determined to provide it. Using social media, she put out a late-night plea on an Upper Valley Facebook page asking to borrow a humane trap. Within minutes, the Facebook post was answered by our very own Executive Director, Nikki, who happened to be scrolling through her feed – divine intervention! However, another kind soul had already offered to loan Sarah a trap. But Nikki answered the next important question, “Once I trap her, where can she get vet care?”

The answer – UVHS! Sarah and her daughter were committed to trapping the cat and from there, UVHS would provide her with medical care, love, and shelter. Sarah and Nikki were in communication over the evening, early the next morning, and throughout the next day until finally, Maisey entered the trap. It was at that moment that they knew the black and white waif with the big green eyes would see a brighter future.

Maisey arrived at UVHS frightened, incredibly malnourished, loaded with fleas, and suffering from hair loss due to a nasty allergy to the fleas. She received medical care immediately, and later had a dental procedure to remove two infected teeth.

A few months later, Maisey was barely recognizable! She turned out to be a beautiful cat with a friendly, endearing personality. Her coat was shining and full, and she was at a healthy body weight. I’m happy to tell you that Maisey was adopted and she’s now bringing unconditional love to her new family.

Thank you to the good Samaritan who was determined to help Maisey, thank you to the staff at UVHS for nursing her back to health, and thank you to Maisey’s adopter for giving her the loving home she deserves.

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The Charming Zarathustra Lives on in Fat Cat Art

by Cat Lady

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vetlana Petrova is a very talented artist who also happens to be a cat lover. Over a decade ago, she launched Fat Cat Art, and if you’ve spent any time on social media, you’ve probably seen her work. Her late kitty, Zarathustra, was the inspiration behind these entertaining works of art, and together they inspired each other.

Zarathustra was inherited by Svetlana after her mother’s passing, and just as cats do, he left a permanent paw print on her heart and will never be forgotten. I’ve been a fan of Fat Cat Art for many years and reached out hoping to learn more about her work and Zarathustra, a chubby and super charming ginger kitty cat who has won the hearts of millions of cat lovers online.

You started Fat Cat Art in 2011, how many works do you think you’ve made with Zarathustra since then?

I made more than 200 paintings and more than 60 animated videos.

What inspired you to create this work?

Fat Cat Art is a very personal project. Zarathustra the Cat is my mother’s cat; I adopted him after she died in 2008. I was so close to my mother, and miss her so much.

Zarathustra was and is a living memory of my mother.

Zarathustra saved me from depression after my mother’s death. Before, when I created a bizarre fashion show, I made artworks with my other cat Marc, and one of my friends told me: “why you don’t do any art with your new cat Zarathustra, he

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is so funny!” And he was: he was fat, my mother spoiled him immensely, it is her words on the site, that he is “the best cat in the world”.

I thought: why not, it will amuse me, and began to think what shall I do. It was useless to put wings on him because he is evidently unable to fly in his physical conditions. So I thought that maybe I can make a photo session with food in the style of Dutch still-life paintings. To imagine how it will look like I decided to photoshop the cat into some painting (I used Photoshop for sketches of the sets of my events and costumes) And I don’t know why I photoshopped it into another painting, Danae by Rembrandt. Then I made four more classic paintings, and I sent them to some friends of mine, artists, and gallerists, just to see their reaction. Never before had I seen serious ladies crying to tears and laying down from laughing.

This encouraged me a lot, and I launched the site FatCatArt.com .

My other inspiration was the Internet. I dreamt of making an experiment: to create an Internet meme that should be beautiful and clever, this virus should bring some information, some stimulus to know more. People discovering my cat paintings should google originals. Of course, not all of them do that, but a few of them are worth a play. The cat-modified paintings fit ideally to my idea of a clever and beautiful meme. Making this project brought a lot of knowledge for me also, I studied a lot of the styles of old masters, and their techniques, to make paintings look as if they are real paintings made by an old master.

What are some of your favorite works you’ve made?

So hard to tell what is favorite! I like my Mona Lisa. I doubted a lot creating it: it’s a challenge, so many artists were remaking Mona. The first was Marcel Duchamp who drew a mustache at Mona Lisa’s cheap postcard and wrote caption L.H.O.O.Q.. That was a century ago, and Summer 2022

then L.H.O.O.Q. was sold for $607,500 on 13, May 1999 at Christie’s auction in New York, So many other remakes were made. I had a very strong competition of remakes, from Duchamp to Botero and Banksy.

But I made a piece, and I succeed to the level that many people told me that Mona Lisa became better with the cat. They have such a feeling because now the scene became understandable, alive: a girl with the cat posing to a photographer on the balcony, the girl wants to make a parade face, but the cat is bored and wants to escape, everybody saw this scene in his life, it is so vivid!

Will your new kitty, Tyger Blake, be featured in your art?

Yes, he already made a debut in Pablo Picasso, Face of Peace with a Kitten.

He came into this world in a time of trouble and is eager to make this world better. Another art with him follows very soon.

What’s something that you’d like to share with people about your amazing late kitty, Zarathustra?

Zarathustra was a natural-born artist and he knew he was making art, and he was always very friendly to photographers, he knew who was a photographer and began to flatter these people, amazing, how he knew!

He had a special place for work as a model, in my apartment there is a podium covered by a big carpet, it looks like a stage. When Zarathustra wanted to pose he showed me that I should go to this place, then lay down on this carpet, and began to make very funny poses with a very serious face. He had rich mimics and could make different very expressive faces.

So I am very serious when I say that he is my co-author. We made not only paintings but also a book together: “Fat Cat Art: Famous Masterpieces Improved by a Ginger Cat with Attitude” On the cover of the book, we both are quoted as authors: Svetlana Petrova & Zarathustra the Cat. I think he is the first cat-book author.

He is also maybe the unique cat who became a contemporary artist by himself. As an artist, he worked in the field of appropriation art, performance, and institutional critics. And he was my personal friend, we understood each other so well. I miss him immensely and he was my muse (or Mews).

And, as I explained before, I felt a connection to my late mother via him. I think my mother would love so much what we have done together with him!

In my childhood, me and my mother, we went to the Hermitage museum every weekend. And then Zarathustra the Cat came into my life like he was sent by my mother to take care of me in her absence and to bring me again to the museum.

Making of FatCatArt project brought a lot of knowledge for me. I studied the art of old masters, their technique, history of art, and contemporary art. And all this because of Zarathustra.

He left me many paintings and even videos to finish, and I have to develop his legacy. I have thousands of his photos and video shots on my computer. He traveled in art history for centuries, and he will continue his journey in the digital world.

Zarathustra will return in new paintings, just give him a little bit of time.

For more of Svetlana's work, be sure to check out her website FatCatArt.com, and you can also purchase her book on Amazon. Also, be sure to follow her on Facebook and Instagram to see her latest impressive creations. Zarathustra’s legacy will continue to live on in her work and in the hearts of many, for he truly was one very special cat.

Summer 2022

www.4LegsAndATail.com 19

CAT INTELLIGENCE TEST:

How Smart Is Your Cat? D

o you ever wonder just how smart your cat is? After all, any cat owner will let you know that cats, even compared to dogs are awfully crafty. And while it is very fun to debate for hours on end which species is smarter, there are actually little exercises you can do with your cat to test their IQ. There is no official scientific IQ test for cats, but this is a way to compare your cat’s intelligence level to that of a human. Here is your cat intelligence test!

EXERCISE 1: Do this exercise in an uncluttered area where your cat can focus exclusively on you. Pick up your cat’s favorite toy. Let your cat get a good long look at the toy and then hide the toy behind a solid item, like a piece of cardboard or a thick piece of paper. Your cat will then probably go looking for the toy behind the piece of cardboard, rather than thinking the toy simply disappeared. This means that your cat has at least the intelligence of an 18-monthold toddler. In fact, cats have the IQ of a 2- or 3-year-old child.

EXERCISE 2: Pick up a mechanical mouse, making sure it’s in view of your cat. Place it so it ends up going underneath a piece of furniture, like a chair or your refrigerator. Watch your cat as they watch the mechanical mouse. How your cat behaves is a measure of their intelligence. Your cat will likely watch the movement of the mouse. Does your cat predict with accuracy where the mouse emerges from underneath the piece of furniture? If so, this confirms that your cat has at least the intelligence of a 2-year-old child.

EXERCISE 3: Here’s a test you can perform right around mealtime. Take an unopened container of food and place it near your cat’s food bowl. Your cat’s response will be a measure of your kitty’s ability to reason and provide a little bit of insight into their intelligence level. If your cat is very intelligent, they will look at the food and then at you.

They will likely continue looking back and forth at you and the container, waiting for you to serve them the food. Your cat’s intelligence might be a little lower if they ignore the container of food.

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EXERCISE 4: This last test only requires your television. Put on a nature show that involves birds. Your cat is showing off their intelligence if they watch the show with interest. How quickly your cat figures out that they can’t catch the birds is another measure of your cat’s IQ. Of course, how your cat performs on these tests is just a measure of basic IQ. These exercises don't show how much you and your cat love each other, how affectionate your cat is, or how well your cat is at other tasks like snuggling or being an amazing best friend. However, give your cat these tests and let us know how they perform!

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t a e H r e m Su m & You r Cat A

lthough cats tend to tolerate the heat a little better than dogs — after all, they are famous for seeking sunny spots for sunbathes — the reality is that cats can suffer from overheating (hyperthermia) and heatstroke too. Heat-related health problems tend not to be as common in cats, possibly because cats tend not to exercise in hot weather with their humans and spend less time in the car.

Cats are also incredibly smart about keeping themselves cool. Here’s how they keep cool, as well as things you can do to help them beat summer’s heat.

CATS CONSERVE THEIR ENERGY. You may notice your cat “disappearing,” taking longer naps or being less active during really hot weather. That’s because cats (unlike their canine counterparts) know that conserving, rather than exerting, energy during hot weather helps keep their core temperature down so they don’t overheat. Cats will sleep during warmer parts of the day, preferably in a cool area out of direct sunlight, and reserve activities for the cooler parts of the day or evening hours.

CATS SEEK OUT COOL SURFACES. There’s a reason why you’ll find your cat chillin’ on the tile floors of the laundry room, bathroom or kitchen or on the cement floor of your basement. Cats understand that the cooler floors will conduct heat away from their body. They’ll also seek out shaded areas like under the bed or a closet where they can stay out of direct sunlight. So make sure your cat has access to areas of your home with tile floors or rooms that don’t get much sun.

CATS GROOM THEMSELVES MORE. Because cats can’t sweat like we do, they groom to keep themselves cool. As they groom during hot weather, their saliva evaporates off of their fur, cooling them down just like evaporating sweat cools us.

Cats drink more water. Cats get thirsty when they’re hot, just like us and our dogs. Be sure your kitty always has access to fresh, clean, cool water. You can help keep kitty’s water cool by adding a couple of ice cubes.

CATS BENEFIT FROM THEIR FUR COATS. You might think your cat’s fur coat makes them miserable during hot weather, but the reality is that fur has insulating properties that help regulate body temperature. What you can do, however, is brush your cat frequently to help remove any excessive undercoat.

WHAT ELSE CAN YOU CAN DO TO KEEP YOUR INDOOR KITTY COMFORTABLE? Consider setting your home’s air conditioner to a conservative but comfortable temperature instead of turning it off when you leave the house in the morning. And don’t forget to close curtains and blinds to reduce heating through windows, skylights or sliding glass doors.

Summer 2022

www.4LegsAndATail.com 21

Emma Donna M. Garfield - Lyndon, VT

C

rash! I open my eyes and look at my watch. It is 2:25 a.m. I already know the cause of the crash but turn over anyway. There on the small chest of drawers beside the bed is Emma. She sits there and looks at me as if to say, “I didn’t hear anything.” Right. The little imp has just pushed my stack of 10 paperbacks onto the floor and is now sitting there looking innocent and nonplussed.

Emma is our 13-year-old cat and she delights us every day. Pushing paperbacks off the stand is just one of the things she does to get attention.

Emma came into our lives in October 2009. We had lost a cat in July of the same year and we were devastated.

Amidst all the tears, my husband said

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we wouldn’t be getting any more cats.

Even though we always had a cat or cats, it was too hard on us when the last one died. We walked around for months thinking we saw him coming into the room or his tail disappearing around a corner. It just went on and on. I knew my husband meant well, but there was just no way I could live without a cat.

One of my co-workers was watching me go through my grief and said she had a cat at home who was about four months old that she would love to bring to me. She had barn cats but some of them were more domesticated than others, and there was one special one she felt belonged to me. I kept telling her no. Then one day in October she was bringing kittens in for some of her friends and at the last minute put Emma in the car, too.

I knew I was in trouble. I picked up Emma and she snuggled into my neck and, well, you all know I immediately fell in love with her. She was a dark gray tiger with white under her nose and around her mouth. She had a beautiful gold color on her belly (befitting a princess of course).

I called my husband to tell him I would be bringing home a cat. He wasn’t very happy as he thought we had agreed not to have any more. Well, actually we didn’t agree, because at the right time I knew we would have one. I finally said to him, “If God is sending us a cat, who are we to send the cat away?” (I think it was in my wedding vows that I would always have a cat but my husband must have forgotten about that line in the ceremony!)

So at the end of the day, Emma and I headed home and she and my husband, Reed, met for the first time.

The next morning I left for work and Emma stayed home with Reed who was retired. Over the course of the next several weeks, I received emails with pictures of Emma sleeping in Reed’s desk drawer on a fluffy towel he had placed there for her, sprawled across his keyboard as he was trying to work, or laying on the Morse Code keyer as he was trying to Summer 2022

use his ham radio. It was clear they were becoming fast friends.

Emma loved me but she was truly Reed’s buddy. During the evening, she would make her way over to him in the recliner, climb into his arms, and just rest there with what looked like a satisfied smile on her face.

When I retired 10 years later, Emma was not quite prepared for the change in our household. She was used to me leaving the house at 8:00 a.m. and watching the car go down the driveway.

Now I didn’t do that. She would sit near the closet as if to say, “Why aren’t you putting your coat on? You’re going to be late.”

She was also used to sitting in our picture window at about 5:20 each night waiting for my car to pull into the driveway. Another change she didn’t understand.

Finally, she accepted the fact that I was going to be home every day, and she wasn’t going to get rid of me. Her habits changed and she liked having the three of us in the same room. In the evening we would watch the news or a show and she would snooze on her favorite fluffy blanket on the couch.

However, if one of us left the room to go to the den to work on the computer, she would immediately wake up and go to the den to check on us. Then back to the living room to check on the other one. Sometimes she just laid down in the hallway so that she knew where both of us were stationed.

Over the years, we never had a cat who chewed paper. Emma was the first and how she loves paper! She loves boxes, too, and when they come in the mail, she is right there with us when it is being opened. Then she jumps in the box no matter the size and chews on the paper if there is any.

Emma was never a cat that purred very much. She also didn’t like people visiting and would go hide in another room. I think it was because it was just the three of us living here all the time and she just wasn’t used to the extra noise. Then about a year ago, she started greeting people as they came up our stairs. Her purring became louder and louder and when we spoke to her, she would answer with a meow. Quite a personality change but one that we greatly enjoy.

I cannot imagine life without a cat.

They all have their own personalities.

Emma is aware of everything going on in the house. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Donna Garfield is a free-lance writer and photographer. She has been writing for "The North Star Monthly" (produced and published by Northstar Publishing LLC of Danville, VT) since 2009. Donna was a feature writer for many years concentrating on stories of people living in the Northeast Kingdom of VT. She currently writes a monthly column entitled "Life's a Journey".

Donna lives in Lyndon, VT, with her husband, Reed, and their cat, Emma.

Her photos have appeared in various publications.

Summer 2022

Emma

www.4LegsAndATail.com 23

The Smart Dog I

ntelligence comes in many forms, even in dogs, so it's hard to say whether one breed is really "smarter" than another.

But there are definite differences.

According to neuropsychologist Stanley Coren, PhD, author of Born to Bark, there are three major types of dog smarts: instinctive intelligence (what a dog is bred for), adaptive intelligence (what a dog can learn by itself), and working and obedience intelligence (what people can teach a dog to do). Comparing breeds can be hard for the first two types, but there's a wide range in brainpower among breeds in working and obedience intelligence.

The bumper sticker "My border collie is smarter than your honor student" may be an exaggeration, but border collies are considered the smartest breed in training and obedience. In a survey, 199 of 208 obedience training judges ranked border collies in the top 10. The others, in order, were poodles, German shepherds, golden retrievers, Dobermans, Shetland sheepdogs, Labrador retrievers, papillons, Rottweilers, and Australian cattle dogs.

Sorry, Afghan hound fans. These dogs ranked lowest on tests of working and obedience intelligence. They were considered the least "trainable" breed, followed by the basenji, bulldog, chow chow, borzoi, bloodhound, Pekingese, beagle, mastiff, and basset hound.

Cat lovers and dog lovers argue this one all the time. It kind of depends on what we mean by "smarter." In tests, cats are smarter when it comes to using their paws -- like to pull strings or levers. However, dogs are more trainable, more social, and more able to understand human gestures and words.

Plus, there's the brain size issue. In proportion to their body sizes, dog brains are bigger than cat brains. In the science world, brain size is usually a pretty reliable measure of a species' smarts.

The average dog can learn 165 words.

"Super dogs" -- those in the top 20% of 24 4 Legs & a Tail

intelligence -- can learn 250 words, and the very smartest dogs may be capable of much more. Researchers have taught a border collie named Chaser more than 1,000 words -- about the same vocabulary as a 3-year-old child.

Maybe you can't ask a dog "what's one plus one" and get an answer. But tests show that dogs can count up to four or five and understand the idea of addition and subtraction. If a dog sees a bowl with five pieces of food and another with two, they'll likely choose the bowl with more pieces.

Dogs understand simple ideas of space.

They're good at making a mental map of the space around them, as long as they have some landmarks. And while the concept of time is a little bit harder, they understand that things happen in some kind of order. They understand that one thing happens before or after something else.

In terms of social intelligence -- the ability to communicate and cooperate with others -- dogs are very clever. Not only can they interact well with other dogs, but they are very good at communicating with humans.

Coren ranks dogs' social intelligence on par with human teenagers. "They're really interested in who's who in the pack, and who's moving up in the pack, and who's sleeping with who and so on."

The average dog has the language understanding of about a 2-year-old child and understands numbers like a child between 2 and 3 years old.

You can make your dog smarter. Dogs raised in a mentally stimulating environment learn faster than dogs raised in a boring one. New experiences and challenges help new neural connections form inside the dog's brain.

It can be hard to compare the intelligence of different species. But based on brain size and body size, dogs are among the smartest animals on the planet. Only humans, the great apes, porpoises, and elephants are smarter.

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Why are dogs smart? It could be because they're hunters who have to use their brains to catch prey. It also could be because they’re very social -- they need brainpower to communicate and cooperate.

Experiments show that dogs will purposely fool people and other dogs to get what they want. When a person and a dog are playing and they try to trick each other, a person can fool a dog about 47% of the time. A dog has nearly the same success rate. They can fool a person about 41% of the time!

Dogs today have bigger brains relative to their body weight than their ancestors did. This could be due to selective breeding for skills that require intelligence -- such as hunting, guarding, guiding, and shepherding.

Not only can old dogs learn new things, but new challenges also can help hold back the mental decline that's sometimes a part of aging. Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome in dogs is often compared to Alzheimer's disease in people. Both can lead to disorientation, unresponsiveness, social withdrawal, and house-training accidents.

More mental activity and challenges can help slow these developments or other kinds of mental decline. Exercise also can help.

If you want a working dog, then pick a brighter breed. But smart dogs can be more demanding; they tend to need more attention and may be more high-strung and quicker to react in both positive and negative ways.

"People ask me why I have a beagle," Coren says. "Beagles are seven from the bottom in terms of obedience training ... [but] I have nine grandchildren, so I needed a dog who's friendly and sociable and relatively unbreakable ... it's actually an advantage for me that this dog doesn't remember that that kid over there is the one who pulled his ear an hour ago."

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d e m a N g o D A e i k n Fra Karen Sturtevant

F

or people who love dogs, crouching down on their level and covering their fur with pats is second nature. Our personal dogs are treated with kisses, ear scratches, and belly rubs. I'm no dog psychologist or behaviorist, just a gal who is crazy about canines. When I made the offer of pet sitting services, I knew I'd interact with a range of temperaments. In my short tenure (CritterCareVt. com) there hasn't been a dog, cat, snake, hedgehog, or chicken who didn't allow my indulgence of spoiling them with touches and tickles—until I met Frankie.

Maggie and John have three dogs–a mix of little and big, goofy and serious. All adopted. All very fortunate and loved. Over the next few months, we had multiple conversations and a meet and greet on a cold, windy day. Frankie was special. He wasn’t like other dogs. I needed to understand. John, Frankie’s dad, was the only person who Frankie allowed

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Summer 2022

to touch him. Not Maggie. Not anyone. When people didn’t heed the warnings, Frankie would snap his disapproval. If he were to make contact with skin, I would need my first aid kit handy. I don’t believe there are bad dogs. Frankie was not going to change my mind. I would not give him a chance to fail. I would follow the rules for everyone’s safety and well-being. I would feed, let out, give treats and never make physical contact with the boy.

He didn’t make it easy. Almost as if taunting, he’d saunter up to me and make eye contact. He'd brush against me. Like a forbidden second helping of ice cream, all my impulses wanted to reach out, connect. My common sense knew better, knew the rules. The game started Friday, my first night there.

By Sunday, the rules would change.

When the digital clock displayed 1:12 a.m. I instantly awoke when I felt a bump on my hand. Laying on my right side, my left arm was dangling over the bed. Frankie was using his muzzle to nudge my hand. With the light from the hallway providing illumination, my eyes opened to see Frankie in my face. Was I dreaming?

Slowly, instinctually, I moved my hand to the top of his soft head to gently stroke: once, twice, three times. Surely, I was dreaming. He then turned around to position himself so his back was near my head. Not moving anything but that chosen hand, Frankie allowed me to caress his back, ever so gently. After six or seven rotations, he promptly walked away to lay at the foot of the bed. I was up for the day.

Wide awake now, I couldn’t fathom what just happened. Maggie and John would never believe it! Later that morning, when the sun was up, the crew and I were on the living room floor. The littles, Leo and Chia, were wrestling, Mai happily lazing on the couch. Frankie was watching. Without pomp or circumstance, and for reasons I will never unravel, Frankie decided he would get up, walk over to me, turn and sit on my lap. I took this as an invitation. Two hands, one long sleek back. This time, I had my phone. And, got video proof! This was Frankie’s world. He made the rules.

Over the next few days, this scene replayed itself along with him coming up to me, lifting his front paw to poke me, to extend an olive branch.

Slowly, my hand would move to his neck, the crown of his smooth head.

Other times, with tag wagging, he’d walk to me then turn to reverse until he bumped into me offering his loveSummer 2022

ly hind end. When he had his fill, he’d move on to grab a toy or simply lay down.

Two times, I attempted to pet him without a proper invitation and almost regretted it. He’s one fast dog and wasn’t shy about telling me he did not approve. I learned where the trusted line was and could not pass. Frankie was the rule maker. I was the follower and okay with that arrangement.

When it was time for me to leave, I had hoped Frankie would allow me one last touch, but it was not to be.

Frankie was in charge. As I gave the pups one last treat, I thanked Frankie for trusting me. With teary eyes, I left my new friend. As incredible as this experience was for me, it must have been equally fulfilling for Frankie: another someone, for whatever reason, he granted access into his private world. My soul was deeply moved by him. I don’t keep a lot of videos or photos on my phone, but the ones with Frankie I will never delete.

We will get another chance to get reacquainted later this year when I will again pet sit for the pack. I’ll bring my playbook to remember Frankie’s the coach and this is his field.

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Geno and Billy

Good boy, K9 Billy Karen Sturtevant

I

n my next life, I would like to come back as the person responsible for choosing silly holidays in which to celebrate. Already extensive, the list includes Penguin Awareness Day (January 20), Work Naked Day (February 4), Corn on the Cob Day (June 11), and let’s not forget the international powerhouse on February 23: Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day. It seems if you can think it, it can be celebrated. When January 9 arrived, my phone informed me it was Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. I took to social media to post my grat28 4 Legs & a Tail

itude for those dedicated to protect and serve. It was the least I could do given the current state of affairs and debate on policing in America.

In the winter of 2019, I met Burling ton Police Cor poral Eug uene Baccaglini and K9 Billy, fresh from patrol school. The mission was to tag along for a ride and report my adventures. I even got previous permission to engage the lights and sirens. (My inner child jumped up and down!)

The air was freezing, the evening quiet. The lull in crime allotted me the time to learn about the furry face in Summer 2022

the custom-fitted backseat. Baccaglini and K9 Billy had been a team for only a short time. As the years went by, I often wondered about Billy. When Covid restrictions lifted, I caught up with them in hopes of hearing and sharing uplifting stories. If human officers could have an appreciation day, I hoped to give this special canine his. The update didn’t disappoint.

Meet K9 Billy K9 Billy (formerly Bully), a fiveyear-old purebred German shepherd, was donated to the Burlington Police Department in 2019 at two years of age. Considered dual-purpose, Burlington's top dog is certified by the Vermont Criminal Justice Training Council in patrol functions (officer/ handler protection, criminal apprehension, tracking, evidence recovery, building searches) and drug detection. Credential recertification is performed each year at the Vermont Police Canine Academy including a mile and a half outdoor trek to find the decoy (subject) in two hours or less. The team has accomplished this in as little as 20 minutes.

Training Police dogs are asked to perform a multitude of tasks to assist law enforcement. Keeping Billy in a healthy state of brain and body is essential to achieving this goal. German shepherds are extremely intelligent dogs. An idle canine with a sharp mind can lead to problems. Cognizant of this, working sessions are done each day. At shift’s end, Baccaglini might ask a coworker to throw an object in tall grass. Billy will then be sent in to find it. At the waterfront, Baccaglini has requested that a jogger take Billy’s beloved tug toy and drop it along her route. Billy would then be tasked to ignore the busyness of people and other distractions and find the toy. Navigating an obstacle course or searching a residence are other methods to keep him in tip-top shape.

“As with real-world scenarios, you don’t know what’s going to happen until it happens. So, it’s important to have a plan B,” comments Baccaglini.

“People can shift their attention to a different priority, it’s not so easy for a dog to do that. In training, we try to show the dog as many pictures of a scenario as we can.”

The K9 units in Vermont are a tightknit bunch that often train together.

"We all know each other's dogs and they all have issues. By problem-solving and adding scenarios, we try and Summer 2022

correct those issues." According to the Vermont Police Canine Association, Vermont has 49 active K9 teams. The most commonly used breeds for law enforcement work are the German shepherd, Belgian Malinois, Dutch shepherd, Bloodhound, and Labrador retriever. The daily attention given to these specialized canines is commendable. The dogs live with their handlers during their active duty and often after retirement.

A working dog When I asked what a typical shift with a police dog entailed, I got the same look I always get when I ask an unanswerable question. In policing, there is no typical. Bacccaglini works the night shift and did his best to articulate an answer.

They are together 24/7. Billy’s transition from determined pup to relaxed house dog is seamless. This stealthy canine knows it’s time to work when his harness gets fitted and his handler attaches the leash. Billy is most content when he has a job to do.

Billy's keen nose was put to the test on a windy day in downtown Burlington after a bank robbery had taken Continued Next Page

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place. With onlookers and dozens of people walking around the area contaminating the scene, the challenge was immense. "It couldn't have been a worse day situationally to do a track.

Although we had a general idea of where he went, we weren’t able to find him. Sometimes, the odds are against us.”

As the depar tment has seen an increase in commercial burglaries and burglaries in general, the duo has been called to perform numerous building searches for suspects.

Billy's familiarity with his human coworkers became apparent when he was conducting a search of a church after such a break-in. Billy, without looking up at faces, was focused on making his way through the building zipping among several police officers. In the foyer, an employee of the church walked in. Sensing a new person, Billy immediately tensed, staring at him, alerting his handler to this potential danger. Billy, like most working dogs, is comfortable around already-recognized people and instinctually cautious with those who are unknown.

Other nights may be quieter for Billy as he sits or naps waiting for his next objective. One of his favor-

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ite pastimes is to howl, quite loudly, at firetruck and police car sirens.

Dogs will be dogs Teaching sessions are done to reinforce Billy’s knowledge. But, sometimes this badge-wearing dog is just like any other dog. Once, while assisting with a traffic stop, Billy was called in to search a vehicle. “When he’s about to work he gets amped up and starts leaking energy,” said Baccaglini. "Just as I'm hooking the leash and taking him out of the car, a rabbit bolts from ten feet away into the bushes. Now, he's locked on to the rabbit." The focus on the assignment is suddenly gone. Billy's reactions are "both simultaneously hilarious and frustrating. We have our limitations.”

Small, fast-moving critters, even for police dogs, are hard to resist. The search, completed af ter a time of refocusing, was successful. The rabbit made a getaway.

A memorable evening On March 25, 2020, Billy and his partner were called to assist Shelburne Police in the case of a missing elderly man in an altered mental state.

Without shoes or a coat, the man wandered from his residence into the cold winter night. Using a scented object, Billy got to work. Tracking is difficult in the best of circumstances.

Tracking on different terrain surfaces poses unique challenges. Asking Billy to work on snow and ice was a demanding task.

The officers followed Billy approximately half a mile from the residence to a driveway lined with footprints when the dog suddenly stopped. "He does a 90-degree turn, and in the back of my mind I keep hearing the head trainer say, 'Trust your Dog. Trust your dog.’”

The obvious path was leading to and beyond the driveway. Baccaglini, thinking that Billy’s lure to the wooded area was due to the scents and sounds of nocturnal animals, yielded the urge to redirect. Baccaglini put his trust in his partner. Approximately 50 yards from the spot where Billy was alerting, barefoot impressions, shaped by melted ice, were visible.

Follow ing that trail lead them to the 79-year-old man semi-conscious in the early stages of hyperthermia.

Billy’s discovery can be attributed to air-scenting. Typically, a dog’s nose is 100,000 times more sensitive than a human’s. In addition, the section of a dog’s brain responsible for processing smells is seven times larger than ours. “The man was there long Summer 2022

Baccagli and Billy at graduation

enough so his odor was pooling. The dog was keying in on that. This was the first instance where I had seen his proximately alert where he knows he’s found somebody, he can’t see them so basically he just stops and he waits.

He knows he’s on top of somebody, he just doesn’t know exactly where they are.”

Thanks in part to Billy’s sharp nose and his partner’s surrender of trust, the gentleman received timely medical care and made a full recovery.

This accomplishment ear ned the team the 2020 Life Saving Award presented by the Vermont Police Canine Association.

feeds off me. There’s the cliché that the energy r uns up and dow n the leash. He can sense the stress in my voice and that puts him on an alert, more of a what’s happening around him.” Always diligent, this canine is watching and learning.

Billy's know-how isn't limited to groundwork. He and Baccaglini have f lown in a helicopter and ridden on a boat in preparedness for f uture excursions. “Other than being an outwardly fun training day, it opens up opportunities for different types of deployments. If we had somebody who was a lost hiker, are we going to hike four miles to a point last seen or can we get dropped off and save that energy for the actual search?" A Dog days one-mile hike for a person equates to Each day calls for creative outlets: three or four miles for a dog. Getting finding coins in the grass, rummag- Billy accustomed to various modes of ing through a car for narcotics, or transportation helps him become complaying with coworkers at the police fortable in new environments. While station. Having been a team for a few cr uising on the water, Baccaglini years, Billy and Baccaglini can now comments, “Once we got moving, he read each other. “He keys in on situContinued Next Page ations, basically my energy. The dog Summer 2022

www.4LegsAndATail.com 31

was sticking his nose into the wind. He didn’t seem too concerned.” With a combination of beauty and smarts, this handsome canine boy takes every test in stride.

To meet Billy, one immediately senses his easy-going manner. Baccaglini cautions, “Always ask,” before approaching and touching any dog. During the summer, the team spends time at Camp Paw Paw, a program for kids who love animals, staffed by the Chittenden County Humane Society. Presenting the functions of a police dog, Baccaglini encourages participants to interact with and pet Billy. "He seems to show a difference between adults and kids and I think that's because of how I've handled him in public. He is a very social dog." Keeping a connection to the community, the team has a steady schedule of public events. Billy loves being the center of attention.

Although Billy may look like a cuddly pup, he is trained to be aggressive when needed. He is expected to protect Baccaglini and will do so when called upon. "For a working dog, you want them to have a little edginess to them.

You don't want them too friendly because when you call on them to be aggressive if they don't have it in the back of their mind, that's when the dog can be more of a liability than an asset." Billy has mastered how to perform based on the circumstance.

32 4 Legs & a Tail

What’s next?

Cor pora l Baccag lini’s plan is simple: “Keeping up with our certifications and continuing to identify situations where he's not super confident and then creating training scenarios to build up that part of his understanding of what's being asked of him." Problem-solving is done daily. "It's amusing to go into a room with the intent to clear it and he starts doing a drug search or asking him to do a drug search and he's barking at everyone in the room." Giving Billy a clear picture of what is being asked of him is an ongoing challenge. "It has been very entertaining."

Police dogs bring a revered level of expertise to law enforcement. Their inexplicable ability to learn and please their handlers is unmatched. Dogs are protectors, helpers, and secret keepers. Police dogs are extraordinary. With Billy's support system, he continues to advance in discipline and technique. Under the tough-guy exterior, he's a big softy who likes scratches behind the ears and rubs on his belly. His four-legged heroism and ongoing devotion are two reasons why K9 Billy is a shining example of a professional police canine and why dogs really are our best friends.

Summer 2022

Summer 2022

www.4LegsAndATail.com 33

25 Rescue Dogs’ Cross-Country Caravan from A temporary fence needed to be set up at each pit stop

with 25 dogs involved. There were the inevitable stops for dog-walking, dogfeeding, and people-feeding as well as the need for drivers to sleep. However, David Rosenfelt documents it all with great humor in his book, Dogtripping: 25 Rescues, 11 Volunteers, and 3 RVs on Our Canine Cross-Country Adventure, a truly fun read.

In an interview with Bark magazine, Rosenfelt was asked what he would do differently about the trip: “What would I do differently? I don’t think anything.

We had a great group of volunteers. If everybody else had their option, they Kate Kelly would’ve done much the same; [they just should have] left me at home. They literally say it was one of the greatest hat do you do if you run a dog adventures of their lives. It was just terrescue operation near Los Angeles and rible, but everyone else loved it.” want to move to Maine—with the dogs?

Maybe you do what David Rosenfelt and The Rescue Dog Life Began with a Date Rosenfelt’s dog adventure began with a his wife, Debbie Myers, did.

After spending months puzzling through date. He had plans to go to a movie with the challenge of transferring their 25 a woman to whom he had recently been dogs—many of which had health prob- introduced. After the movie, David suglems or were too old to be adopted by gested dinner. His date, Debbie Myers, others–they ultimately rented three RVs demurred as she needed to go home and and welcomed 11 wonderfully willing put eye drops in her dog’s eyes.

Between the two of them, they finalvolunteers to help with the dogs. Their intention was to “drive straight through” ly resolved to have dinner, meeting 45 minutes post-eye drops. The dog in quesas much as they possibly could.

Of course, not all could go as planned tion, Tara, was a golden retriever whom Rosenfelt was soon to meet and also fall in love with.

Soon Rosenfelt and Myers became a couple and Tara became the dog they both adored. About a year later, Tara was diagnosed with cancer. It was a terrible day in the household. Debbie and David helped Tara live comfortably for as long as she could. When she died it was a total heartbreak.

Rosenfelt and Myers were at a loss as to what to do. Getting another dog right away didn’t feel right to Debbie, but they wanted a way to fill the hole in their hearts. A friend suggested they volunteer at the animal shelters around Los Angeles.

After work and on weekends, the couple helped out at several different shelters.

They knew their work was important, but they also knew that so many animals needed even more help.

Debbie determined it was time for a new plan. She was still working full time at a major ad agency, but together with David, they formed the Tara Foundation to try to help place more animals.

Because of Tara, they were willing to rescue any golden retriever they heard about that was at risk of being euthanized, but they also had a soft spot for the older dogs or those with health problems that are hard to place.

Because they wanted those dogs to live out the end of their lives feeling loved Summer 2022

L.A. to Maine W

On the Road

34 4 Legs & a Tail

and cared for, they began bringing those dogs home to stay.

In 2010 Debbie retired to focus full time on the dogs, and they quickly expanded from four dogs to 27 dogs. Initially, they lived in Santa Monica but eventually moved to a larger space in nearby Orange County.

With the move to more space, they began to take more dogs. Some they did find homes for; others they simply brought home to keep.

in some way have seen a very dark side of life—enjoy a good quality of life and know they are sincerely loved. Rosenfelt concludes Dogtripping with what he has learned from the experience: “…if I’ve learned one thing during our descent into dog rescue lunacy, it’s that dogs bridge gaps between people. They smooth over the human condition, and they provide an extraordinarily valuable function. They take people of all political persuasions, religious faiths, and geographical locations and represent something that everyone can love.

The value of that cannot be overstated.”

He now has two new books out: Lessons from Tara: Life Advice from the World’s Most Brilliant Dog, and his latest in the Andy Carpenter series (#13, Who Let the Dogs Out?) Life is good in their household.

This article first appeared on the website, www.Americacomesalive.com.

America Comes Alive publishes more stories about American dogs and other animals. Visit the website and sign up for “American Dogs” to receive the stories in your In Box. Or email Kate Kelly at Kate@AmericaComesAlive.com

The Cross-Country Trip Once Debbie and David firmed up the plan for their cross-country the trip, they went about gathering the supplies, the volunteers, and all that they would need for the adventure. Rosenfelt does a great job of documenting the trip that they made four years ago in Dogtripping, and readers are kept laughing. Rosenfelt, who also writes the successful mystery series featuring Andy Carpenter, writes with wit and keeps his feet firmly based in reality. He sees their activities as “lunacy” but lunacy he would not give up for anything—he’s fully committed.

Once they arrived in Maine, they drove about 75 miles north of Portland to the house they owned near Damariscotta Lake. Next, they undertook re-settling the dogs, sending the volunteers home with big hugs and deep gratitude, and building a new life for themselves.

In Maine, unwanted dogs are a much smaller problem. Instead of running a rescue organization they now provide sanctuary for any dog that is not likely to be adopted because of age or poor health. This summer they have 18 dogs with them, still plenty for David to have lots of company in and around his desk as he writes. Being unable to sit down for a meal or get the dogs to move out of the recliner so he can watch television is just part of their daily life, as is feeding, dispensing medicines, cleaning up after the dogs, and generally making certain that the dogs that live with them—dogs that have been traumatized, mistreated, or Summer 2022

www.4LegsAndATail.com 35

Tiny

Terrier

Detects Breast Cancer in Woman A

Yorkshire Terrier saved her ow ner’s life af ter jumping up and down on her chest to alert her to a cancerous lump.

Eleven-year-old pooch Bella Boo wouldn’t settle in her usual sleeping place and kept trying to lie on Karena Kirk-Drain’s chest despite being pushed away. The dog’s odd demeanor continued over the next three weeks, and she even started to cry. When she wouldn’t stop weeping, it left Karena concerned about her health—but baffled vets confirmed that she was fit and healthy.

Bella Boo

Karena called it "a heartbreaking cry," and thought the dog was "obviously trying to tell me something." She continued licking and hopping on the 53-year-old’s chest. “Bella started bouncing on me, and at one point I actually thought she’d bruised me, as I was very sore there.”

“And I was feeling around, and I actually felt a lump, and I was thinking, ‘Is that a lump inside?’”

Then, doctors confir med it was breast cancer.

The Blackpool, Lancashire woman then underwent life-saving treatment

and believes the disease would have been missed if it wasn’t for Bella-Boo’s actions.

“I didn’t think dogs could detect cancer, I thought it was a lot of hoo-ha really, but this proves that they can. I’m just so lucky to be here; little Bella-Boo saved my life. Bella always slept on the back of my legs, but she kept lying on my chest. Every time I took her off me, she’d crawl back on again.”

The doctor said the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes and Karena thinks that’s why Bella was getting more determined—because it was spreading.

After the whole ordeal, the woman traveled around the world, having realized how lucky she was to get her diagnosis early enough. “I didn’t believe in that type of thing. I didn’t believe that dogs could detect cancer.” “Once I got the cancer removed, she stopped straight away, and she started lying behind my legs again.”

Karena now urges pet owners to pay attention to their strange behavior in the future. “Maybe if people see their dog start acting strange, they’ll be able to think twice. People underestimate dogs and cats and all animals. But they are amazing creatures.”

Bella Boo and Karena

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Summer 2022

WORKING K9 TO 5 HELPS EMPLOYERS CREATE DOG-FRIENDLY OFFICES A New Pilot Project from Seattle Humane & Trupanion Offers

A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE for BRINGING DOGS INTO the WORKPLACE

A

s people and businesses start to consider their return to a post-pandemic workplace, there’s one thing they may want to bring with them: their dog.

After months of intense time together during the pandemic, dog owners are increasingly concerned about their dog’s separation anxiety – and their own – once they return to work or resume travel. And now, thanks to a new joint effort by Seattle Humane and Trupanion, more businesses could welcome dogs as canine coworkers: “Working K9 to 5” is a new, comprehensive stepby-step guide for businesses to create a dog-friendly workplace.

“If this pandemic has shown us anything, it is the power of animals to help us navigate life’s biggest challenges while also providing us with immeasurable comfort,” said Christopher Ross, CEO of Seattle Humane, one of the Puget Sound’s leaders in animal adoption, education, and welfare. “Scores of people have adopted dogs and cats since the pandemic began, creating an even closer bond between pet owners and their animals. People have spent the last two years working from home, and now that some employers are bringing their staff back into the office, people are looking for ways to bring their dogs with them.

We know when people can have their dogs at work, it, decreases separation anxiety and reduces the number of pets who may need to be rehomed,” he added.

Research suggests that bringing dogs to work can have a positive impact on employee work performance; help attract and retain talent; and improve teamwork and the overall office culture – even for those without dogs.

“Bringing pets in the workplace has the potential to increase workplace satisfaction and build a more positive work environment for all employees,” said Dusty Bonner, executive vice president of distribution at Trupanion. “As more employers recognize the benefits of having pets in the workplace, it’s important to have the tools and resources available to do so. ‘Working K9 to 5’ provides all the resources employers need to develop a pet-friendly office.”

Trupanion, a leading provider of medical insurance for cats and dogs, has Summer 2022

welcomed dogs (and cats) into their office since the very beginning. With more than two decades of experience creating a safe and productive environment for both employees and pets, Trupanion is recognized as one of the top workplaces that lead the nation in best dog-friendly companies.

The new “Working K9 to 5” program offers a turnkey approach, providing clear steps and guidelines for creating a dogfriendly environment at work, including: • Office pet rules and eligibility • Office petiquette – etiquette rules for dogs and their owners • A step-by-step guide to incorporating dogs into the office setting • A sample application for employees and their pets and employee eligibility rules • Guidelines for dispute resolution • Ideas for creating a dog-friendly workspace • Suggestions for managing common areas and shared spaces • Pet vaccination and other preventative health requirements “Working K9 to 5 can serve as an integral blueprint for offices looking to welcome dogs as a part of the returnto-work environment,” added Bonner.

“This is really about setting everyone up for success – the employees, the employer, and the dogs we love.”

To learn more about Working K9 to 5, visit: www.trupanion.com/working-k9-to-5.

About Trupanion: Trupanion is a leader in medical insurance for cats and dogs throughout the United States, Canada, and Australia with over 670,000 pets enrolled.

For more info, please visit trupanion.com.

www.4LegsAndATail.com 37

UKRAINIAN

SOLDIERS ADOPT FREEZING PUPPY - AND NOW 'RAMBO' STANDS GUARD FOR THEM

I

38 4 Legs & a Tail

t’s not all doom and gloom in the trenches in Ukraine—sometimes it’s head pats and belly rubs of gratitude.

That’s the scene for one platoon of Ukrainian troops that adopted a stray dog.

“We took him into our post, and he stayed with us,” one soldier told FreedomNews.TV. “We felt sorry for him. It was freezing outside.”

They decided to name him Rambo.

“He is security. That’s his job,” said one man, gesturing at an 8-inch tall puppy curiously hopping around, wondering what the camera crew was doing.

The soldiers said that little Rambo was so small when they found him that he fit right in the palm of their hand.

Beyond Rambo, a number of adult dogs also frequent the trenches. Warming themselves near the cabins at night and wandering about during the day, they all, the soldiers explain, can hear if a stranger is coming and give an alert.

This isn’t the first time Ukrainian soldiers have been filmed taking care of stray dogs.

GNN reported last year on a BBC documentary about the guards that keep watch over the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone and the dogs that live there. Over time, some have become the soldiers' companions, offering that most ancient of deals between man and nature: food and shelter in exchange for excellent senses of smell and hearing.

“They give us joy,” said one of the guards. “For me personally, this is a kind of symbol of the continuation of life in this radioactive, post-apocalyptic world.”

Summer 2022

HERO BOMB-SNIFFING DOG FINDS 150 RUSSIAN BOMBS IN UKRAINE A

bomb-sniffing dog in Ukraine has detected more than a hundred explosives amid the country's war with Russia.

Patron, whose name means "cartridge" in Ukrainian, has been credited with discovering more than 150 explosive devices in the northern Chernihiv region since Russia launched its invasion on Feb. 24, Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) announced in a post Sunday.

The 2-year-old Jack Russell terrier works for Ukraine's State Emergency Services (DSNS), as per NPR. He made headlines after Ukrainian authorities revealed last month that he had neutralized 90 Russian explosive devices.

"Patron works closely with deminers to make Ukrainian cities safe again.

Thank you so much for your service!" the MFA said in a post.

Summer 2022

It was unclear if all of the 150 explosive devices Patron detected were from Russian forces.

The Russian military left behind up to thousands of land mines in homes, on streets, in fields, around cars and in doorways as they retreated from certain areas in Ukraine, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

They continue to use improvised explosive devices "to inflict casualties, lower morale and restrict Ukrainian freedom of movement," the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defense said.

In addition to finding explosives, Patron and his DSNS colleagues also teach people how to avoid mines in Ukraine.

“Be careful, do not hurry to return to your homes. Don’t approach broken machinery, don’t go off the sidewalks and

On May 8, Patron received a Presedential Award from Volodymyr Zelensky

don’t go to the woods now. This could be dangerous,” the service said in a statement last week.

Should people find any “suspicious object,” they are advised to call 101 or 102, the Ukrainian emergency numbers for fire and police services, respectively.

Patron now has nearly 140,000 followers on his Instagram account, where he is labeled a “Warrior dog.” The account regularly posts photos of Patron with the explosives he has discovered.

“One day, Patron’s story will be turned into a film, but for now, he is faithfully performing his professional duties,” said Ukraine’s Centre for Strategic Communications and Information Security, an agency under the country’s Ministry of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine.

www.4LegsAndATail.com 39

EVENING GROSBEAK the Beautiful Seed Cruncher Catherine Greenleaf- Lyme, NH

I

t’s a real treat to see an Evening Grosbeak these days, especially in the New England area. These boldly colored finches are breathtakingly beautiful and fun to watch.

The Evening Grosbeak has a bright, lemon-yellow body with a white patch on its black wings, along with a dusky-colored head decorated with an attention-getting yellow patch and prominent black eyebrow stripe. The black eyebrow can give them a stern countenance, not unlike that scrutinizing look given by the fifth-grade math teacher you hated.

The female, on the other hand, is a very pretty soft grey with golden highlights.

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SEED CRUNCHING ACTIVITIES The Evening Grosbeak has a formidable set of mandibles, designed for crushing even the toughest of seeds. You can always tell when a Grosbeak is in the backyard due to the loud munching and crunching sounds they make when eating. With their large and powerful beaks they can exert 150 pounds of force per square inch.

This bird easily cracks open cherry pits and uses its tongue to fish out the seeds.

They are also quite generous with their seed crunching activities. Smaller finches like the Pine Siskin will often wait below a Grosbeak while it cracks hardto-open seeds so it can grab the smaller nutmeats that fall to the ground.

BUDDHA BIRD With a wingspan measuring up to 14 inches in length at full extension, this bird is large and other songbirds yield the right of way when they appear at bird feeders. This is not because the Grosbeak is a bully. In fact, they are quite gregarious toward other bird species.

Evening Grosbeaks are often referred to as Buddha birds because they can peacefully co-exist with many other species of songbird, with only the occasional dramatic territorial squabble.

Evening Grosbeak is actually a misnomer. The name was given to the bird by early settlers who happened to see the bird emerge from forests at sundown.

They are very much diurnal birds, or birds that are active in daylight.

Ornithologists say they are better named the Wandering Grosbeak, a name that refers to their tendency toward irruption.

The Evening Grosbeak’s range stretches from southern Canada to the northern U.S. and reaches from the Pacific Coast to the East Coast, although flocks have been spotted as far south as Mexico.

The bird was strictly seen west of the Rocky Mountains until the 1850s, but plentiful food drew them to the New England area by the 1920s.

Summer 2022

GROSBEAKS LOVE TO EAT A patron of the northern coniferous forests in the spring and summer, the Evening Grosbeak loves feasting on seed cones. The Grosbeak is also fond of fresh green Maple tree buds. In addition, they relish insect larvae, which they carefully pick out of tree bark.

They also eat vast amounts of caterpillars and aphids, along with berries and other small fruits.

Evening Grosbeaks prefer life at the top and can often be seen feeding at the crowns of trees and tall shrubs.

They also prefer to build their nests high in the trees and prefer spruce, pine, white cedar and balsam fir.

A LONG STRUGGLE TO SURVIVE Evening Grosbeak populations have been struggling for several reasons.

Their absolute favorite food is the seed of the Box Elder, also known as the Split Leaf maple. They also like to drink the sap from its branches, which contains minerals vital for survival.

Sadly, commercial landscapers launched an all-out war against the Box Elder in the 1950s, which continues to this day. The Box Elder was labeled a junk tree with no beauty and no usefulness. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Evening Grosbeak populations went into steep decline in the 1960s and have yet to recover.

Another favorite food of the Grosbeak, the spruce budworm, was eradicated through widespread aerial pesticide spraying, also contributing to the bird’s decline. The budworm was a major food staple Grosbeaks fed to their nestlings.

The latest blow, according to sciSummer 2022

entists, is the loss of critical boreal forest due to logging and tar sand operations, which have created extensive food deserts in Canada.

When winter arrives, large f locks of Grosbeaks leave their northern range and seek out dense forested areas for overwintering, usually along the northern top of the United States.

Ornithologists routinely report Grosbeak irruptions, with the bird reportedly migrating to a different region nearly every year. The bottom line is they go where the food is, and it is getting harder to find.

You can help Evening Grosbeaks by limiting your purchase of brand-new furniture, by buying only recycled paper products and by planting Box Elders in your yard.

Catherine Greenleaf is the director of St. Francis Wild Bird Center in Lyme, N.H. If you find an injured bird or turtle, please call (603) 795-4850. www.4LegsAndATail.com 41

Saving the Polka-Dot Turtle Juliet Hoven

C

alling all reptile lovers! There is an animal that needs our help! A small and often overlooked turtle species are on the decline, and as a community, we can help! The critter in need is the Spotted Turtle or Clemmys guttata. The Spotted Turtle is characterized by its dark black shell covered in vibrant yellow spots.

This is where it earned its nickname as the “polkadot” turtle. Its head, legs, and tail are mostly black with the same unique yellow spots. They have bright orange or yellow bellies and are a relatively small turtle species reaching only four to five inches.

Spotted Turtles are found in two portions of North America. They range from northern Florida and extend along the east coast to southern Maine. They are also located along the Great Lakes region in parts of Illinois, Ohio, New York, and Vermont. The Spotted Turtle lives in boggy ponds, sedge meadows, marshes, and an array of other habitats.

They prefer shallow standing or slowflowing water with a soft substrate and

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rooted vegetation. While these turtles are considered aquatic, they frequently travel on land between wetlands. Spotted Turtles wander more frequently on land during Spring because it is their mating and nesting season.

Unfortunately, the Spotted Turtle is considered endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). They are listed as threatened in some states and endangered in others. Spotted Turtle face poaching, invasive species competition, road mortality, and habitat loss.

Poaching happens when species are illegally hunted or taken from their environment and sold into the wildlife trade. The distinctive appearance of the Spotted Turtle makes it particularly desirable in the pet trade, and it is often sought after by people as a pet. The turtle is also competing with invasive species in their own habitats.

Species not native to the environment are depleting the resources essential for Spotted Turtle's survival.

Additionally, the turtle travels frequently on land between different wetlands. Traveling increases the species' chance of coming in contact with roads or highways, which can be very dangerous. Spotted Turtles easily go unnoticed when crossing a road and get run over by vehicles. The turtle also continues to experience habitat loss from human development and expansion.

People drain wetlands for agriculture and housing development construction, destroying the native habitat for the Spotted Turtle in the process. The species is also highly sensitive to toxins and chemicals in the environment.

Any toxins and pesticides from agriculture or construction are harmful.

So you might ask yourself, “What’s next? Can I help?”

YES!! There are limits to what we can do because we do not want to openly disclose the turtle's locations for poachers Summer 2022

to find out. However, one way you can help is by participating in road surveys!

Road surveys are a good way for us to learn more about the Spotted Turtle’s behavior. They provide more information about how many and how often they might be moving. Road surveys can be especially important for finding out more about their mating season.

If road surveys do not float your boat, contacting your local wildlife rescues or herpetological societies about past or new sightings of the Spotted Turtle is also helpful. You can report photos and sightings through some rescues, such as the Vermont Herp Atlas at https:// www.vtherpatlas.org/sighting-sub. We want to learn more about the species, so we can better understand how to conserve it. Reports of sightings are a good method to learn where Spotted Turtle's are and what their behavior might be.

Lastly, one of the best things you can do to help is stay educated on what species are endangered or threatened where you live! The Spotted Turtle is one of many species affected by human actions and presence. Staying educated on these matters is extremely important because there are dozens of species overlooked by the public, and they go extinct without people knowing. Spreading this information to others can be one of the best ways to help conserve species. Many animals depend on our help to be saved, including the infamous “polka-dot” turtle, so when we have a shot at helping them, let’s do our best!

Summer 2022

Juliet Hoven is currently a double major in zoology and ecology at UVM, excited by any opportunity to do ecological work with amphibians or reptiles. She wrote to us at the suggestion of Green Mountain Animal Defenders.

Photos for reporting sightings can be submitted through: https://www.vtherpatlas.org/sighting-sub

www.4LegsAndATail.com 43

NH Passes New Law For Outdoor Dining Recently the state of New Hampshire enacted RSA 466:44, regarding dogs in restaurants.

Here is a summary of the new ruling: A restaurant may allow dogs in any outdoor dining area at his or her place of business if:

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•

Such dog and owner access the outdoor dining area from the exterior of the restaurant, regardless of whether food or drink are served in such outdoor dining area

•

The owner of such dog controls his or her dog within the outdoor dining area

•

The owner of a dog keeps the dog on the ground and out of the aisles of the dining area, and does not allow the dog to eat or drink using glasses, plates, or utensils from the restaurant

•

Restaurant staff may not pet or play with the dog

•

The restaurant owner asks a dog owner to remove his or her threatening or aggressive dog from the area

Summer 2022

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www.4LegsAndATail.com 45

Anxiety in Dogs

and what we can do to help Paula Bergeron - Grafton, NH

T

he number one issue that causes dog owners to seek out behavioral rehabilitation by far is an unusual amount of anxiety or fear in their dog(s). Canine anxiety is often at the root of unsettling behaviors such as over-reactivity, lunging, barking, and snarling. It can cause unruly vet visits requiring mediation to be able to administer routine

46 4 Legs & a Tail

shots or blood draws. You can see obsessive behaviors such as chewing, licking, pacing, and barking. Dogs can feel compelled to be in constant movement to relieve stress or a need to shut down to reduce the amount of stimuli that can assault their senses. Fear and anxiety are incredibly destructive to the balance of any creature's mental health, and our canine friends are not immune to their influence on their lives and well-being.

It is difficult to see our wonderful canine companions become hostages to fear, and owners seek answers to help relieve the pain that they see. But, often we try to help our dogs in ways that we might help another human, and we are baffled when we don't see long-term relief when we try to "understand" their fears, or help them to feel safe by cuddling and speaking soft encouragement. Although there are times and places for cuddles and encouragement when applied to fear it can backfire as we are trying to apply human logic to a canine mind.

To help our dogs in episodes of fear we need to understand what instinctively creates calm and confidence in any canine. First and foremost dogs are pack animals. Pack animals need leaders that keep the family safe, well-fed, and healthy.

Canine leaders do just that, by enforcing strict codes of conduct. The pack is healthy in mind and body when they have strong leaders that provide food, dispense discipline, and defend the pack.

At all times the pack is being led, often there is more than one leader, or there are different levels of leaders, but if that pack looses leadership the dogs within are pulled by the undeniable drive for preservation to reinstate leadership and discipline. A healthy contented pack has strong, reliable leadership.

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If we, as humans, want to provide for our dog's confidence and a feeling of safety, then we need to bring pack leadership into our homes, walks, and social situations. If your dog is anxious and fearful, although we might want to comfort, our dogs experience this as soft companionship, and while nice, it does nothing to alleviate the instinctual concerns that are resulting in unwanted and unpleasant anxious-driven behaviors. I like to think of it this way, if I were in a hurricane would I rather hold on to a soft clump of grasses or a strongly rooted tree. Our dogs feel the need for strong support in the storms of life, yes a soft clump of grass is wonderful to rest on but when there is fear…. give me the sturdy tree. If you want to help your fearful dog, you must become the sturdy tree.

To become that strong leader for your dog you need to provide discipline, boundaries, the structure of routine, and require conduct that ensures the health of your pack!

Here are just a few examples of how to help your dog feel that you are supplying the leadership they need to be able to relax and enjoy their life.

Leash walk your dog at least one time every day where you require them to walk next to you or slightly behind. This daily reminder of structure is, in my opinion, your best tool to remind your dogs that they have a good and strong leader in their life. Off-leash walks and romps are wonderful for your dogs, but make sure you have a reliable recall so that you can call them back at any time of "danger". Practice that recall many times every day!

Have rules for your dogs at home, routines that let your dog know that leadership is part of their life such as waiting for you to go through doors first or having a lower place to rest rather than up on the couch or bed. Do not allow your dogs to guard your door, have them go to their beds while you answer the door letting your dog know you will take on the responsibility of who is safe to enter their home.

Have your dog's social play area be in the back of the house rather than the front so that they always feel protected, and not that they are the first line of defense from those daily deliveries or walkers past your home. Provide your dog with a crate or "den" where they can go to rest knowing they will not be disturbed by other dogs or children. Allow your dog to eat in their den so they don't feel the need to guard their food. These are just a few ways you can implement touchpoints that remind your anxious dog that they are well cared for, and safe.

I am sure you can come up with many more for your home.

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Not all dogs need extra-strong leadership, but all dogs do need leadership or they will take on the responsibility for themselves, and for many dogs that causes anxiety. Not all of us are made for leadership, and believe me, if your anxious dog feels the need to take on the role of your pack leadership you will see unwanted behavior as they try to compensate for their lack of confidence by overreacting to every "threat:" they believe is at their door.

If you find yourself loving a dog in your family that shows signs of anxiety and fear, remember what they need is strength of leadership, boundaries, routine, structure, and discipline. Once they have that in place, they can relax, and that is the time for cuddles and coos. Remember to give your dog what they need, rather than what you want to give and you will be on your way to soothing your anxious dog. All the best to you and your pack……

Happy Training!

Paula Bergeron and the gang at Good Dogma embrace a holistic approach to bringing balance to your dog's behavioral issues. Exercise, training, relaxation, massage, grooming, play, socialization, and energy healing are incorporated into your dog's routine. www.Goodogma.com

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Kidney Disease in Cats Bella

Catherine MacLean, DVM - Grantham, NH

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idney disease, also known as renal disease, is a very common problem in cats. It is mostly older or geriatric cats that are affected, but younger cats can be affected as well. About 1 in 3 geriatric cats have renal disease. One of the most common misconceptions I hear from owners when I discuss renal disease, is that their pet is urinating, so its kidneys are working just fine. In fact, this is not true. Both cats and dogs will typically lose about 75% of their renal function before they show clinical signs. If your pet is not urinating, it is because the kidneys have stopped making urine. The kidneys have failed and can often not recover.

There are two types of renal disease in cats: acute and chronic. Acute renal disease can affect cats of all ages. It occurs when your kitty has an acute/sudden injury to their kidneys. Possible causes include trauma, anti-freeze ingestion, toxin ingestion, an infection, etc. Cats that suffer from acute renal disease are often very ill and may stop producing urine. When urine production stops, the prognosis is usually very poor. With acute renal disease it’s important to diagnose quickly and start treatment as soon as possible. This helps protect the kidneys and gives your pet a better chance of a full recovery.

Chronic renal disease is more commonly seen in middle age to older cats.

It occurs over the course of time as kidneys stop functioning properly. Cats with chronic renal disease tend to compensate for months to years. Mild signs of illness and dehydration will occur before full blown signs of renal disease may be noticed by owners. Chronic renal disease can be an aging change, but can also be caused by a kidney stone, cancer, polycystic kidney disease or other conditions.

Early signs of chronic renal disease include increased thirst and larger wet spots of urine in the litter box, or a subtle Summer 2022

amount of weight loss. Cats with moderate to severe chronic renal disease may show decreased appetite, noticeable weight loss, decreased grooming, vomiting, lethargy, paler gums, bad breath, and noticeably increased thirst and urination.

Early signs of chronic renal disease can sometimes be detected when a veterinarian does a physical exam on your pet. Your veterinarian may notice abnormal kidney size, pain when palpating your cat’s kidneys, or may find stones in the urinary tract. Blood work and a urinalysis will often shed light on how well your cat’s kidneys are functioning.

If your veterinarian discovers that your cat has renal disease, treatment is often initiated. What type of treatment chosen for your pet depends on how advanced the renal disease is and what the owner is willing to do. Treatment can be as simple as changing your cat’s food, to giving f luids and other medications at home.

Bella, a beautiful 17-year-old Himalayan began seeing me in September of 2015. New to the area the owners were concerned that Bella was not acting like herself. One owner had been away for several weeks and when she returned she felt that Bella had lost a lot of weight and her appetite was diminished. On exam, her gums appeared to be a paler pink than I would normally expect and her kidneys felt smaller than normal. Blood work showed that Bella was anemic (low number of red blood cells) and had elevated kidney values. In Bella’s case her anemia was caused by her renal disease.

Treatment plans were discussed including further diagnostics with an ultrasound, diet change, giving subcutaneous fluids, and medication to help regenerate Bella’s red blood cells. The owners decided against the ultrasound, but were open to treating Bella’s anemia with medication, doing subcutaneous fluids, vitamin B12 injections, changing her diet, and a long list of other things.

Bella was very lucky because her owners cared very deeply for her and wanted to give her every opportunity possible.

Over the course of the next six months we resolved Bella’s anemia and keep her kidney values stable. Unfortunately, as is often with geriatric patients, other health issues came up and Bella made her journey over the Rainbow Bridge.

Bella’s story is on the extreme end of the spectrum in terms of the care that she needed. Most of my renal patients don’t need such extensive treatments.

I have several geriatric cats who were diagnosed with renal disease very early on because of routine senior blood work.

In these situations I have maintained Summer 2022

them by just switching their diet and monitoring their kidney values every three months. I also have patients that fall somewhere in between with their treatment plans.

Unless acute renal disease is caught early, it is not a curable disease. However, there are steps that can be taken to make your pet comfortable and give them a good quality of life. Renal disease does not automatically mean your cat has a death sentence. By making sure your pet has annual exams and by doing routine blood work when appropriate, renal disease as well as other diseases, can often be caught early. This gives your pet the chance of a better outcome and a longer, healthier life.

Dr. MacLean completed her Bachelor of Science from Penn State University, her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Atlantic Veterinary College, and her pet acupuncture certification from Chi Institute. Her areas of special interest include general practice and acupuncture. She opened Sugar River Animal Hospital in 2013, and she has been practicing veterinary medicine since 2010. Dr. MacLean’s family consists of her husband Matt, her daughter Katarina, and their three pets: Jack and Misty, two cats, and Arrow, a dog.

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Riding : the Tangible and Intangible Sue Miller - Sharon, VT

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here is so much in horsemanship that vacillates between tangible touch and intangible feelings and emotions. We can “feel” ourselves in the saddle, the horse below us, but there is also a huge halo of intangible “feelings” and emotions that come with having a relationship with the horse you are riding. How do we successfully suss out the distinction between our most empowering relationship and best horsemanship practices?

What is tangible? The definition of tangible is perceptible by touch. The definition of intangible is: unable to be touched or grasped; not having a physical presence. In good riding and horsemanship, we experience both. Our euphoria in riding is often because we experience both tangible and intangible essences when

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we're with the horse. Sometimes we feel great even if we didn’t have the best ride because of some intangible experience we had with the horse that left us feeling happy. Other times we feel bad because we didn't have our physical or emotional needs met during our time with the horse. Or we might feel emotionally abandoned but physically recharged from our ride. As humans, it is hard for us to be present at the moment the way that animals are. We are a time-constrained culture of our own design.

Animals have no such agenda. They live moment to moment.

As humans, we tend to think into the future or remember the past. Each of these distracts us from the here and now. During our time with horses, we often have a time constraint, our own

agenda, and some baggage from our life experiences that we bring with us in our interactions with the horse. For a species that has an extensive verbal and written language humans have an amazing amount of trouble communicating, expressing, interpreting & reading their own emotions, let alone someone else's. Meanings are misinterpreted or misread and emotions are added to the mix from however many parties might be involved in the conversation. When we add the jumble of our intention for the horse, emotion, self-doubt, and other thoughts, it muddies the water for the horse to understand the original intention of what we were hoping to do. We humans split our attention and our minds wander constantly. Keeping attention is difficult for us, especially in today’s world where multitasking has become a norm. There are distractions from everywhere, television, radio, other people, we rarely get to focus on one thing at a time. There are instances when humans end up projecting an intention to the horse that ends up being misinterpreted.

Horses have a verbal language, they use sparingly. As prey animals' horses don’t like to give away their position to a potential predator by giving a loud verbal cue. Horses will talk with different sounds, pitches, and inflections in their whinny. But horses speak most succinctly with their body language.

Horses are experts at interpreting body language. Their own and humans.

Humans are often conflicted about our thoughts, and feelings and approach horses in an incongruent way. Meaning we are thinking one thing, but trying to appear as another. Because humans have been taught and expected to suppress their inner turmoil. The expression, “Fake it until you make it” comes to mind as a confusing issue for humans and horses alike. The person in various degrees is frightened but is trying to appear that they are confident and unafraid. Horses tend not to want to engage with someone that is in this state of confused uncertainty.

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someone that is being genuine to their inner voice. If you are feeling afraid take that deep breath and be true to yourself. The horse will respond to this harmony much faster than to the mixed message.

Being able to set an intention with the horse and remain focused on that task without distractions from past or future events is extremely hard. Intention is your plan, your purpose, the center of interest or activity. When you can be in the moment focusing your attention on the horse and your intention in the moment. As those moments shift, so does your attention and you adjust to remain in balance physically, mentally, and emotionally between the horse, yourself, the intention, and the present. The distractions of people watching, or what you have to do next fade away. You are just present for yourself and the horse. Adjusting as the horse needs you to be mindful of them. This is when you have those moments of sheer clarity and the most euphoric experiences.

The barn can of ten become our sacred place. That special site where we experience unique feelings of belonging, empowerment, and energetic rejuvenation. In large thanks to the amazing sentient beings that are hors-

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es. Who without knowing, keeps us grounded and distracted from the myriad of thoughts that cloud our minds each day. Helping us to focus in the moment – readjust and face the next moment. It’s really quite peaceful and calm. If only for a brief moment.

Susan Miller is a PATH Advanced instructor and ESMHL. Program Director at High Horses Therapeutic Riding Program and serve on the boards of the Vermont Horse Council and Vermont Horse Shows Association

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Letting Go… Again and Again The recurring theme for many riders: It’s that “letting go” thing!

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ost things that hinder us – tightness, tension, inf lexibility, fear, control issues, imbalance, among others – can be turned around by “letting go” of muscles, emotions, etc. Sally Swift taught about “getting out of the horse’s way” - allowing him to do his job without rider interference. Any

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Dorothy Crosby - Stoddard, NH time we aren’t allowing the horse to move us, we stop their movement or prevent them from performing what we’ve requested, even – especially - if we’re working harder to get results!

After all, this works really well when we wish to shorten or slow a gait; unfortunately, it works equally well when we’re in the way and the horse can’t complete the movement because our tightness, etc. is blocking it.

“Let the horse move you,” your trainer says. “Feel the movement in your legs, pelvis, shoulders, arms; the diagonal across your back; the opening and closing of your joints.

Can you recognize the rhythm/pattern of the legs as they move, or the swinging of the belly, or the crossing over of the legs? ” Of course, we can enjoy r iding without being able to feel or identify any of these; many of us do. But how much better would we ride with softness, balance and f low allowing

horse and rider to fly and soar together?! There is nothing wrong and much right about recreational rides that are simply for enjoyment and fun; some passionate horse owners seek a more complex path that is also very much right for them. Regardless of the discipline, human and equine partners benefit when the needs of both are met!

Riding is a series of give and take, ask and release, apply an aid and wait for a response…It is a continuous song between dance partners, a dialogue between coworkers, an active training session between coach and student. Sometimes, it’s difficult to tell who might be in each role, but there is always a Captain; a confident and capable Captain knows when to lead, when to co-lead, or even follow. The partnership is important; any accomplishment is most successful when it’s a team effort and communication is achieved by both participants. Clear communication is primarily body language consisting of both what we do and what we don’t do – and listening between partners.

To a horse, the release of pressure confirms the correct answer; continue asking, or fail to release upon the correct answer, and these great equine guessers will continue to seek the correct answer, trying yet another thing until they get it right! To a human, having the horse respond so they enjoy a hassle-free or technically accomplished ride is what makes it fun or worth the effort. It stands to reason that the more one masters how and when to ask, as well as ceasing in order to allow room for the response, the smoother those Summer 2022

tasks will be and the more enjoyable for both par tners. And that, I can guarantee, comes with softness and balance and free movement. For both of us.

Im a g i ne g iv i ng a hu ge bear hug to keep a child on your lap or prevent someone from moving away...any clamping or tightening on our part acts in much the same way for a horse, likely to the point of literally restricting them physically, and possibly emotionally, so they can’t move freely, even while they try.

Experiment; one doesn’t have to commit to technical riding for the rest of your days. Take time during your next ride to observe; notice which parts of you move because the horse pushes them, which parts move because you are intentional about it, and which parts are stuck or moving too much because you can’t help it….new awareness!

Consider how you might let go; would relaxing help? Or more f lexibility? Or trust? There are many places where the issues lie. Try a few deep breaths (remember, an inhale and complete exhale make a whole breath: they each affect us differently, did you notice?) Or breathe rhythmically within an activity: how many breaths on your circle or to that tree, or from the barn to the end of the driveway?

Repeat and notice the patterns; see if you might do one less breath in each activity. Can you make it a habit to periodically take your leg off the horse – just enough to slide a piece of paper between you and the saddle – to help keep you from gripping? Can you shrug your shoulders, releasing them to then come all the way down?

Could you stretch or release tension at the start of something new?

So much of letting go is physical, emotional, and repetitive. Identify your tight spots and learn to be the giving partner! You’ll both get better at letting go!

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.

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"Can We Crash on Your Couch...

Just For a While!"

Jacques and Steph Du Preez - Swanzey, NH

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ave you been considering opening up your home to an animal in need but aren’t quite ready for the commitment of adoption? Maybe you have already adopted and want to help other animals in need until they are ready for their homes? Well now is the time to act! Monadnock Humane Society is expanding our community-based fos-

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ter program, and recruiting caring people such as yourself, to help us with our animals who need extra care out of the shelter environment due to medical or behavioral needs.

There is no substitute for a loving home for these animals as they are on the road to medical or behavioral recovery.

We are especially in need of foster homes for dogs of all

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ages and sizes. Oftentimes, we will get dogs through our Animal Safety Net program who have special needs. They are used to living in a home environment, and the shelter can be especially stressful for them, exacerbating what were mild medical or behavior issues.

We would love to be able to avoid adding stress to these animals going through a huge life change while waiting for their owners to be in a place where they can take them back, but we just don’t have enough willing foster homes to take in as many as we would like to. By joining us in fostering Animal Safety Net dogs, you are helping not only dogs in need, but humans in need as well.

It is also kitten season once again!

Foster homes for pregnant moms, moms with babies, and bottlebabies are always in high demand. These kittens make up some of our most vulnerable population, so some special training is involved to take these special animals into your home to foster. We also often need help socializing tiny spirit kittens, which is how we describe our little fearful kitties who need help with adjusting to life with humans. The joy you can get back from watching a little hissing and spitting kitty turn into a lap kitty is immeasurable.

Foster Mom Kathy, tells us that she fosters because she gets her kitten fix, while caring for kittens too young for adoption, who get to spend time in her home and not be caged in a shelter. She continues on that “It’s not always fluffy sweet cuddly kittens though. often there are health related issues requiring more care and more angst from the foster mom. When they come out the other side happy and healthy it sure is rewarding. I have two local grandchildren now ages 16 and 14 (pictured) who have learned to bottle feed young kittens and generally care for them.”

Help us make this world a better place for animals and the people who love them.

Join our elite group of Hero foster families today! Please visit our website to fill out a foster application: monadnockhumanesociety.org/foster/ Monadnock Humane Society will provide you with all the supplies and medical care needed for your foster pet. All we ask of you is your time, love, and patience to help these animals through some of the most trying times of their little lives. You too, can make a difference by simply opening up your heart and your home.

Jacques is the Director of Development and Marketing for MHS and his wife, Steph is the owner and trainer behind Ohh, Sit! Dog Training.

Steph is a dog trainer specializing in behavior modification. She has a BS in Psychology, her CDBC (Certified Dog Behavior Consultant) through the IAABC, and her CPDT-KA certification.

Jacques and Steph have three dogs, two cats, eight chickens and a gecko named Todd at home, as well as two kids to keep them very busy.

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Bobcat in Keene

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Farewell Party in Kosovo

Homeless Dog Finds His Way to America A

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homeless dog that brought comfort to U.S. soldiers overseas will now get a chance to live the cozy life in America with one of those soldiers.

The three-year-old mixed breed became like family to Sergeant K. and his Army unit in Kosovo last year, after they found him looking for food around their base.

His daily visits and wagging tail soon became the highlight of their day, delivering comfort to those far from home.

Sgt. Kelsey bonded with the pooch he named Duke and wanted to get him to a better life, out of danger.

The staff at the New York-based charity Paws of War promised to help, so Duke and the sergeant could be together once more.

But, before Duke could find his forever home in the US, disaster struck.

He stopped showing up at the base.

Soldiers searched for him for several days, had no luck, and feared the worst.

When they finally found him, they discovered he had been shot, was bleeding badly, and was severely dehydrated.

Paws of War sent out an emergency vet team to save Duke’s life.

The nonprofit’s overseas rescue partner, The Alamal Foundation, provided foster care for Duke while he healed. The pup spent six months recovering and eventually rebuilt his muscle strength to the point he was able to walk again.

Recently, Sgt. Kelsey got a message from Dereck Cartright, a veteran and logistics coordinator for Paws of War. “We are thrilled to be able to tell you that after months of healing and rehabilitation, Duke has made a tremendous recovery. He is ready for the next part of his journey.”

The lucky canine is projected to be reunited with Sgt. Kelsey this month.

“The entire Army unit is so excited that Duke is coming home,” said Sgt. Kelsey. “This is the moment we’ve prayed for.”

Staff at The Alamal Foundation threw Duke a farewell party, attended by everyone who assisted in his rehabilitation.

Paws of War launched a fundraising campaign to help cover the cost of Duke’s flight to the U.S, as well as his lifetime medical care.

“We are happy to help them with this mission and hope that many people in the community will want to support it as well. We can’t do it without their support.”

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Preparing for Puppyhood The Cheshire Horse

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ith their sweet face and adorable wiggles, adding a puppy to your family is such an exciting time in your life! A puppy brings their enthusiasm for life into your household and puts a smile on the face of everyone who comes in contact with them. However, in addition to the happiness that comes with owning a puppy, comes a lot of work and responsibility. The best way to ensure a successful transition for the puppy into your home is to be prepared and ready for the new addition. In this blog, we explore what needs to be done and what you should have on hand before picking up your new bundle of joy.

Questions to Ask Yourself Bringing a new puppy into your home is a big decision. Before you begin looking for a new member of your family, we recommend asking yourself the following questions: • Do I have the patience for a puppy versus a grown dog?

• Can I afford the puppy and the potential expenses?

• Am I allowed to add another dog to our housing situation?

• Will I be moving soon? Will my new location be able to accommodate my dog?

• Will the other animals in the home be welcoming to the puppy?

• Have I properly prepared my home?

• Do I have a plan for vacations or work-related trips?

• What does the breed of my choosing need in order to be happy and healthy?

• Have I properly researched the breed(s)?

• How much time do I have to dedicate to the training?

• What is the activity level of my family?

• Who will care for the puppy on a daily basis?

• What type of grooming will I be able to handle or support?

• Do I have a veterinarian selected?

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Being Prepared To ensure that you and your home are ready for the new addition, it is important to make certain that you have a plan in place for every situation. Determine if you and your family are ready to take on the responsibility of housebreaking, crate training, and obedience training, or will you be utilizing the services of an outside dog trainer. Even if you are comfortable with the process, it is a good idea to speak with your breeder or rescue about a dog trainer that they would recommend in case you end up deciding you might benefit from outside support. It is extremely important to understand how important the fundamental training foundation that you give your dog is.

Think about the routines that you will have in place and how you may need to modify your schedules for at least the next 6 months. Will you be home during the day to let the puppy out?

Perhaps you will need to bring the dog to a daycare situation? Making these arrangements prior to bringing your new puppy home will make the transition easier for everyone.

It is also important to speak with your veterinarian about your plans for a new puppy. He or she may encourage you to give your other animals booster shots in preparation for the new arrival. They also may help you set up your new puppy appointments, especially if they have a busy practice schedule and are already booking out a few months in advance. They will also give you a list of questions to ask the breeder or rescue, including whether or not the puppy has been wormed and which vaccinations they have received thus far.

If this is the first dog or first puppy in a while that you are welcoming into your home, it is important to “puppyproof” your home. Do a thorough walk through your home looking for potential dangers. Are there loose wires that a puppy could chew on? Are all of the household chemicals safely locked up?

Puppies can (and will!) get into everything. You should do a careful inventory of your breakable objects that your puppy can access, wiggly puppies often lack body awareness and can accidentally knock into items that you might not think of as being dangerous, but present a hazard when broken (such as glass objects). Pick up items, like shoes, off the floor; if your puppy can access it, it is probable that they will nibble or chew on it. Additionally, take stock of your houseplants, many common plants can be poisonous if consumed.

The puppy proofing continues into your backyard! Look around for potentially hazardous things, such as poisonous Summer 2022

plants, bird feeders, compost bins, and access to the road, then it is time to make a plan for your puppy while they are outside. Are you going to install a perimeter fence to keep your puppy safely enclosed? Are you going to utilize a harness and a tie-out situation to allow them to play outside? Perhaps you are going to use an electric fence or an electronic collar? It is important to consider how you envision your puppy utilizing the outdoor space that you have and ensuring that it is safe and ready for their arrival; most likely you and your puppy will spend countless hours here playing and learning together.

A Properly Fitting Collar Each and every puppy needs a properly fitting, adjustable collar. Make sure that you feel the material of the collar to make sure it is soft and supple enough for your puppy’s sensitive neck. When adjusting a collar, you should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. A collar that is too loose will easily slip over your puppy’s head, they may also be able to get their paw or even their jaw stuck in the collar. Conversely, a collar that is too tight can cause choking, skin irritation, and muscle damage. When shopping for a Continued Next Page

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collar, bring the measurement of your puppy’s neck with you, this will make it easy to select the proper size (if possible, ask the breeder or rescue because neck sizes can vary greatly). If you do not know the size, speak with a sales associate who has experience with puppies and age-appropriate collar sizing for assistance.

With puppies, it is important to consistently monitor the fit of their collar because they grow so quickly! It is a great idea to purchase an extra collar in a size larger than their first collar so that you will have one for them to grow into… you will need it before you know it.

long leash is the most common for daily use, but longer leashes, like the Weaver Terrain D.O.G. Training Cord, can be helpful when playing outside or for recall training.

Leash A size-appropriate leash with a strong snap is an essential piece of equipment to hold control and contain your dog.

Initially, your puppy will not know how to walk on the leash and it will be a tool to keep them close to you; with the proper training, they will begin to walk happily alongside you. Typically, you should aim to have a leash that is the same thickness as the collar. A leash that is too thin may break when your puppy pulls, while a leash that is too thick may place excess pressure on the neck of the puppy. Typically, a 6-foot

Training Tools In addition to a standard collar and leash set, you will most likely need additional training harnesses and leashes. These products provide soft corrections to behaviors; with continued use, your dog will understand what you are asking of them. Harnesses are an important tool when training puppies to walk with you because they take the pressure off of the neck and allow you to control them with their chest and body. The PetSafe Easy Walk is a favorite, discouraging dogs from pulling and helping them learn to walk nicely alongside you.

Identification

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One of the most important, yet often overlooked, pieces of equipment that you will need is identification for your puppy. A dog tag with your name and phone number should be attached to your puppy’s collar as soon as you pick them up from the breeder or rescue. Puppies are often nervous and wiggly and can easily slip away from you. Having proper information about how to contact you if the puppy gets lost is the best way to ensure that your new companion will be returned to you quickly and safely.

In addition to a dog tag, microchipping is also an important form of canine identification. Communicate with the breeder or rescue prior to picking up the puppy, because many microchip the puppies while they are still small.

Microchips are small computer chips that are quickly and easily placed just under your dog’s skin by your veterinarian. The chip is registered with your information so that if your dog is found, you can be contacted immediately.

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you use a wire crate, you may want to place a blanket or towel over the crate to make it feel more comfortable and “den-like.”

Crates and containment areas are a wonderful way to prevent your puppy from overdoing it. While puppies are extremely playful and have seemingly endless amounts of energy, their muscles, joints, and bones are still developing and should not be overly stressed. Try to moderate their activity level to protect them from injury.

A Comfortable Bed A Safe Haven While watching the puppy explore their new surroundings is such a pleasurable experience, sometimes puppies need places to decompress and feel safe and secure. These are also ideal places for your puppy and eventually older dogs to spend unsupervised time. Many dog owners choose to crate train their puppies, with durable wire crates, such as the Pet Lodge Double Door Wire Dog Crate, while others choose heavy-duty plastic crates, such as the PetMate Vari Kennel. This gives their dog a comfortable sanctuary and space to retreat to when they are feeling overwhelmed. If

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Active puppies also need their rest! A size-appropriate dog bed gives them a soft place to lay their heads at night. We recommend looking for dog beds with washable covers or covering the bed with a fleece blanket, such as the Ethical Pet Snuggler, which makes them easy to clean up after the inevitable accident. Many times the breeder or rescue will provide you with a towel that has familiar smells on it, this can be used on the puppy’s bed to ease the transition to their new home. While it may be tempting to purchase a bed for your puppy to grow into, the majority of puppies feel more comfortable and secure in an appropriately sized bed. A good rule of thumb is to purchase a bed

that is 12” longer than your puppy, giving them room to stretch out. As you get to know your puppy’s individual personality and preferences, you purchase a style of bed that best fits their sleeping habits.

Comfort Toys When your puppy first comes home, they may be very nervous and even feel lonely. This is especially common with puppies who have spent an extended period of time with their littermates or those who come from large litters. These puppies may become anxious in a new location and may feel uncomfortable in their new environment. To counteract this, many dog owners provide their puppy with a soft, plush toy. This plush toy can act as your young dog’s security blanket and give them some much-needed comfort during the first few days or weeks. You may even catch your new addition snuggling with it (please, look for stuffed animals without plastic eyes or noses, these may turn into choking hazards if your dog chews them off).

For additional comfort, you may want to consider playing soft, soothing music for your new dog. This may help them relax. Calming collars, such as the ThunContinued Next Page

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derworks Thunderease Dog Calming Collar, can also help anxious puppies in their new environment.

A Dog/Puppy Food When deciding what type of dog food to nourish your puppy, consider the future full-grown size of your pet and their level of exercise. Look for a formula that supports your individual puppy, such as a small dog or large dog formula. Your dog’s caloric needs will be changing constantly as they grow, so be sure to adjust their intake as needed, using the dog food bag and your pup-

py’s body condition as a guide. Many times puppies benefit from adding more meals throughout the day to accommodate their smaller stomachs while still reaching their caloric requirements.

Typically puppies need three or four meals a day in the first few months and then can be transitioned down to fewer meals as needed.

As your puppy ages, at about 6 months old, they will reach their adolescent stage. Just like growing teenagers, they will continue to need more food to support their rapid growth. Puppy formulas and dog foods for all life stages are still appropriate for this age group to support their body condition as they mature. Make sure that you refer to the particular bag of dog food to read the feeding instructions and recommendations to understand how much food you should be feeding based on your dog’s age and weight.

Chews and Chew Toys During puppyhood and their adolescent phase, young dogs have an increased need for safe chews, particularly because they are teething and losing their baby teeth (milk teeth). As with any treat or toy, make sure that your puppy is closely monitored whenever you give them these products. The Virbac C.E.T.

VeggieDent Tartar Control Chews for Dogs and the Benebone Bacon Flavored Puppy Pack Dog Chews are popular choices. Bully sticks and chew toys, like the Kong Puppy Dog Toy, the Nylabone Puppy Teething Keys, and the Nylabone Power Chew Double Action Chew ToyWolf, are great options that last longer for aggressive chewers and inquisitive puppies. For young dogs, many veterinarians and canine health professionals caution against rawhide chews, which may pose a choking hazard. Having an ample number of chews and chew toys around is a wonderful way to keep your puppy occupied.

Training Treats

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Feeding tasty treats is a fun way to improve your relationship with your puppy. They are also wonderful rewards for your dog during a training session.

When feeding your puppy treats, however, it is important to remember that they should be considered a part of your puppy’s daily intake and their diets may need to be adjusted accordingly.

Whenever possible, try to use smaller treats, like the Cloud Star Tricky Trainers Chewy Treats with Salmon, for training purposes, or break treats into smaller pieces so that they can easily eat them. Some puppies, particularly very food motivated dogs, even accept a piece of dog kibble as a reward for their behavior or a new trick. This is a good way to keep your dog at a healthy weight while also getting the benefits of training. When doing longer training sessions, consider reducing the amount of dog food that you feed that day because you are feeding extra calSummer 2022

ories in treats, including higher value treats. Additionally, vegetables, like carrots, can be a great treat and source of entertainment without adding too many extra calories.

Grooming Products Keeping your puppy clean is important for their skin and coat. You will want a quality dog shampoo, like the Durvet Naturals Puppy Shampoo, or a waterless shampoo product, such as the Nature’s Miracle Deodorizing Bath Wipes, to help clean your puppy as needed. Make sure that you purchase products that are appropriate for your puppy’s coat and care for it keeping their breed(s) in mind. A helpful reference is to refer to the American Kennel Club guide, How Of ten Should You Wash Your Dog. Grooming is also a wonderful way to bond with your dog, so make sure that it is an enjoyable time for everyone by using a calm and relaxed demeanor.

With proper preparation and planning, adding a young canine companion to your home can be one of the most joyous occasions. By ensuring that you and your household have everything in

place to support your new puppy, you can be confident that the transition will be as stress-free as possible. Now… the fun part, enjoying those adorable puppy antics and soft puppy kisses!

At The Cheshire Horse, we have everything you need to welcome your new puppy into your home. If you have any questions regarding the products that you need for your puppy or would like assistance choosing the best puppy chow for your new bundle of joy, we invite you to speak with a member of our highly-trained, dog-loving sales staff.

Carl

Layla - Four Months and Growing

Summer 2022

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The Cat with an Alarming Tumor Sandra L. Waugh VMD, MS - Windsor Pet Dental

This seven month old kitty developed a very large swelling on the upper right side of her face over the course of 5 days!

November 11, 2021

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The x-ray shows an odd looking and oddly placed tooth (red arrow) in an area where there has been destruction of the bone (blue arrow) There was a thick tissue lining the cavity in the bone. All of the lining was removed along with the odd looking tooth and the tissue and tooth were sent off for a biopsy.

When tissue is biopsied, it is sent to a board certified veterinary pathologist. The very thin slice of the tissue is placed on a glass slide and is viewed by the pathologist using a microscope.

The pathologist has undergone extensive training in order to be able to tell me just what this is.

It turned out to be a Feline inductive odontogenic tumor which is a rare dental tumor that occurs only in cats that are under 3 years of age. It is a benign tumor but can be destructive to the surrounding bone.

Summer 2022

Let’s talk about the definition of some words. Many people associate the word “tumor” or “neoplasm” with “cancer”.

Not true! A tumor (or neoplasm) is an abnormal mass of tissue that forms when cells grow and divide more than they should or do not die when they should. Tumors may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). Benign tumors do not invade nearby tissue nor do they spread to other parts of the body. Occasionally they can be locally destructive, such as this cat’s tumor, and need to be removed completely to prevent regrowth. Definition is from the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Heath.

Much nicer looking after the surgery

April 7, 2022

Her face is slightly asymmetrical due to the lack of a canine (fang) tooth on the upper right side. When present, the fang tooth pushes the cheek out and away from the mouth, giving the face a more rounded appearance.

A nice result f rom an alarming beginning.

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.

Quite a big hole was present.

Everything looks much more normal 5 months later. The gum looks normal where the sutures had been. The bone had filled in missing areas nicely (blue arrows) Summer 2022

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Kid's Corner 66 4 Legs & a Tail

The More The Merrier Willow Wood - 10 Years Old

T

he best part about having two houses are my 4 dogs, 3 cats, 2 ferrets, 3 roosters and like a thousand fish. The worst part about having two houses are my 4 dogs, 3 cats, 2 ferrets, 3 roosters and like a thousand fish.

Randy and Tina share a lazy summer day with Willow

really funny, he'll lay on the floor with his legs straight out.

Then I have my two other dogs Maverick and Roxie, Maverick is a husky mix with bright blue eyes like the sky in summer. Even though he doesn't do anything he can still get all hyped up if Roxie starts to play. Roxie is like the opposite of Maverick. Roxie is a huge ball of energy squeaking her toy all day long and running around the house just being annoying.

Winston Doing Then I have my cats Sammy, Clifford Laundry and Winston. Sammy hates people, if you touch her she'll scratch you then hiss at you so she isn't the nicest cat in the world. Winston on the other hand loves A good thing about having all those pets is that... people, he'll go up to you and meow and they're animals/fish and animals and fish are meow until you pet him, and the second the best. I love them so very much. Some- you put your hand up he'll meow again. times though they can be a pain in the Clifford is kind of like Winston. Clifford doesn't meow when you don't pet him neck to deal with.

One of my dogs is Tina, a german but he likes people just not as much as shepherd and when I think of german Winston does.

On to the crazy rooster story. My mom shepherds I think of brave, strong, heroic, police dogs while mine is falling off rescued three roosters off the side of the couches, doing front flip fails and hump- road, and that was the day they became ing my other dog Randy, a bassett hound Carl, Bruce and Tandy, all members of and black lab mix. Randy is very fat but our family.

Fish are the easiest and most calming part of the family. All they do is swim around and do nothing, but Winston likes to sit near the fish tank and stare at them the fish however, are not so fond of Winston.

In the end I'll always have plenty room in my heart for all of these animals.

Kid's Corner

Luna

Harriet J. Sterling - 8 Years Old

I

was overjoyed when my Dad said I could pick up the hamster my friend wanted to give me. I would pick up the hamster. We took the little female hamster home, and I called her Luna. Luna was the most amazing and playful hamster I ever would meet. You usually don’t play with a hamster right away, but Luna did!

Luna was super sweet. But that didn’t last forever.

I was out of hamster bath dust. The package came with a little bit of big, round, and food-like balled litter. Luna walked in and put most of it in her cheek pouches. And for a whole week, drank two bottles of water, didn’t eat any treats, and flooded her litter box (that was now full of new sand.) A few days later, she sadly passed away. I still remember her, even through my old hamster Serena, and now my dwarf hamster, Jeffrey.

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Kid's Corner

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Dog Days of Summer 2022