Top Dog Issue 2018! by animalprint

the modern pet culture magazine for ri & ma

Top Dog Readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Choice Winners

Inside! 15 Year

Anniversary

Issue! Top Dog Issue 2018

FREE volume 13; issue 2

Thank You Animal Print Readers And Doggy Parents for Making Us a TOP DOG! 1st Place: Best Doggie Daycare 2nd Place:BARK B estTHE Overnight Boarding Kennel VOTE us in the 2nd Place:forTop Best Dog Training Dog Reader Choice!

1 Voted #ndly ie “Pet FrInn” in l/ e t Ho Dog the Toprds Awa ! 2015

the

Gothic Inn S

ituated by the sea in the heart of the historic district, the Gothic Inn combines the convenience of location with the warm hospitality of a family run country inn. We are only a short walk to the beach or the ferry landing in Old Harbor and a few minutes by taxi from the airport and the New Harbor Ferry landing. Please call, write or visit our website for information or reservations.

Located on Block Island!

440 Dodge Street, Block Island, RI 02807

Take advantage of our reduced late season & weekday rates!

Accomodations Available for People with Dogs! (pet owners should book early)

1(401)466.2918 • w w w.thegothicinn.com

Big River 3

Come visit us!

Veterinary Services

The Center for Veterinary Orthopedic Surgery Rhode Island’s Only

\Holistic Pet Boutique & Supply Shop

Unparalleled veterinary care ranging from routine preventative healthcare to specialized surgical procedures and dentistry.

• State 0f the Art 3-D Imaging • Orthopedic Surgery

• TPLO’s and Other Knee Surgeries

ned *Ow anine C by a Feline t! & ionis it Nutr

Where everything edible is Made in the USA!

401.539.8080 91 Kingstown Rd. (Rte. 138) Richmond, RI 02898 www.FetchRI.com

(401) 397-8777 • www.bigrivervet.com 774 Nooseneck Hill Rd., West Greenwich, RI

New ! r e d Un ership Own

Thank You For

ALL YOU CAN PLAY & MORE package includes perks such as... • 50% off boarding (standard suites) • Priority Reservations • Curb side Pick-up • Webcam viewing of your pup.

Voting us a

TOP DOG! 1st Place B est Overnig Boarding K ht ennel

2nd Place Best Place to Meet Single Pet Lovers

(401)737-2900 27 Meadow St., Warwick, RI • www.bowchikawowtown.com

4 Thank You AP Readers for Voting Jack’s Snacks

#1 Dog Bakery! !

gsome o D lc

SUMMER HOURS Tuesday-Friday 10am-6pm Saturday 10am-5pm

Find Us On and

Instagram

www.jackssnacks.com

Canine Massage

Salmon River Vet, LLC

MOBILE VET SERVING RHODE ISLAND

· Compassionate massage for your older pet

•F ull Service State-of-the Art Surgical Unit.

· Healing massage for post-op and performance dogs

•L ow Cost Spay & Neuter Services for Cats

· Relaxation massage for your anxious dog

• Laser surgery available

Dr. Ryan Loiselle, DVM 401.793.0092 www.rimobilevet.com

Carolyn Rancourt • (508)241-4826 Gift certificates available!

www.wetnosespa.com

WE PROVIDE EXTENSIVE VETERINARY SERVICES Urgent care Surgery Dental care Wellness exams Boarding Laser therapy

401.633.5522

RI’s Mobile Vet

Profound hands-on care with proven results.

• • • • • •

158 Greenwich Ave. Warwick, RI

Our Veterinarians Dr. Balmforth Dr. Mandarini Dr. Connor

North Kingstown Animal Hospital

3736 Quaker Lane, North Kingstown, RI (401)295-9777 • www.nkanimalhospital.com

Dr. Holmes Dr. Hopper Dr Armstrong

Hours: M-F 8am-8pm Sat, 8am-5pm Sunday, 10am-2pm

he first thing I would like to say is thank you. Last month the Animal

Print turned 15 and we could not have done it without the support of our readers and advertisers. It’s been quite an amazing adventure and I hope everyone reading this knows how much I have truly appreciated your support over the years. This year in particular has presented some interested opportunities and changes for both myself on a personal level and the magazine. One of those opportunities is the co-founding of a nonprofit group called Kiwi K9 Project. This project is a combination of some life-long interests involving filmmaking, short storytelling and animals and is the perfect companion to developing the magazine’s online presence. By the time you read this I will be packing my bags and heading to Australia to meet up with my project partner Adam! You can read a little more about what we’re doing and how to follow our adventures on page 7. I’m also excited to be days away (I hope!) from launching our new website. This website presents another opportunity to share some of the amazing pet related stories, resources, events and animals in need in Rhode Island. Please check it out at www.theanimalprint.com and join the mailing list to keep up to date on all things pets in RI! Lastly, your votes are in! This is one of my favorite issues, when the Top Dog Reader’s Choice winners are announced. I learn about some new pet friendly location or interesting business almost every year and this year is not exception. Check out all the winners starting on page 10! Have a wonderful summer and fall. Thank you, Stephanie Georgia editor

On our cover is Jake!

Jake was the winner of last years “Cover Dog” auction donation from The Animal Print

and Traer Scott Photography at the Providence Animal Rescue League’s event “The Rescue”. His dad Christopher Franklin Dias and family, generously donated to the live auction in order to capture the memory of their beatufiul boy Jake. Thank you to Troop PVD on Valley St. in Providence, who welcomed us inside for our very unique photoshoot! Bow tie provided by The Cheeky Hound on Hope St. in Providence, RI. We were sad to recently learn the news that Jake passed away not long after this photo was taken. RIP Jake and thank you for gracing our cover.

Editor: Stephanie Georgia

Assistant Editors: Harvey R.I.P. Simon Caprica 6 Bodhi (permanent foster asst. editor)

Graphic Design Stephanie Georgia

Writers/Contributors: Karen Kalunian Jim Phillips Adam Haar Mike Fink Heather Gushall Will Tinder

Photography: Traer Scott Georgia Blue Photography

Printing by: TCI Press

Please direct all inquires to:

the Animal Print

P.O. Box 16002 Rumford, RI 02916 fax: 888.705.5824

e-mail:

info@theanimalprint.com

website:

www.theanimalprint.com www.facebook.com/animalprintmagazine Instagram: @animalprintmag

Printed on Recycled Paper Paper Contains 20-25% Post Consumer Content Copyright ©2003-2018 The Animal Print Magazine. Reproduction or use without written permission of articles or editoral or pictoral content in any manner is prohibited. All rights reserved. Use of any person’s name or description in fiction or humorous features is purely coincidental and not the responsibility of the Animal Print. The Animal Print does not endorse any products or services advertised in this issue.

{6 little bites}

Locally and around the globe…

Cats Are Actually Nice, Scientists Find Sorry, haters. Thanks to research from Oregon State University, published in Behavioural Processes, there is scientific evidence that cats are, according to empirical study, nice. In fact, the study concluded, cats like interacting with humans more than they like eating food. Let that sink in: more than food. I don’t like anybody more than food.

Dogs Understand What’s Written All Over Your Face ScienceDaily.com Dogs are capable of understanding the emotions behind an expression on a human face. For example, if a dog turns its head to the left, it could be picking up that someone is angry, fearful or happy. If there is a look of surprise on a person’s face, dogs tend to turn their head to the right. The heart rates of dogs also go up when they see someone who is having a bad day, say Marcello Siniscalchi, Serenella d’Ingeo and Angelo Quaranta of the University of Bari Aldo Moro in Italy. In this study, the authors watched what happened when they presented photographs of the same two adults’ faces (a man and a woman) to 26 feeding dogs. The images were placed strategically to the sides of the animals’ line of sight and the photos showed a human face expressing one of the six basic human emotions: anger, fear, happiness, sadness, surprise, disgust or being neutral. The study in Springer’s journal Learning & Behavior is the latest to reveal just how connected dogs are with people. The research also provides evidence that dogs use different parts of their brains to process human emotions.

The motivation for the study was to apply cognitive tests that have already been tried out on dogs and tortoises, in order to clear up some misconceptions around cats’ bad reputation for being unsociable. “Increasingly cat cognition research is providing evidence of their complex sociocognitive and problem solving abilities,” the authors wrote in the paper. “Nonetheless, it is still common belief that cats are not especially sociable or trainable. This disconnect may be due, in part, to a lack of knowledge of what stimuli cats prefer, and thus may be most motivated to work for.”

“Before you get a dog, you can’t quite imagine what living with one might be like; afterward, you can’t imagine living any other way.” – Caroline Knapp

EAST BAY KENNELS • • • •

Pet Assisted Therapy Programs with

401.253.0082

Boarding Doggie Daycare Grooming Pet Supplies

Integrative Veterinary Care Liz Hassinger DVM

Integrative Wellness Care, Medicine and Surger y Acupuncture, Animal Chiropractic Herbal Therapies, Homeopathy

DYNAMIC

DOG

TRAINING

Loving care for your special friends

Happy Howlidays! Peace and Joy to all Creatures Great and Small

47 Broad Common Rd., Bristol, RI eastbaykennels@yahoo.com

www.wolfrockanimals.com 710 South County Trail Exeter, RI • 401.294.0102

• Private In-home behavioral sessions • Puppy class/Adult AKC CGC class • Certified Therapy Dog Classes

401.823.8841 www.dynamicdogtraining.webs.com

TIVELY A DOG SCHOOL

7 POSITIVELY A DOG SCHOOL

• Pet Manners The Animal Print just turned 15 • Obedience and• we’re headed to Conformation

Australia!

ACE

THANK g Trainer YOU!

• Agility •Daycare ST for Yes, we just•turned Problem Solving 15 (no, we can’t believe it either!)...and it’s already shaping

ity

up to be a big year with lots of excitement here at the magazine. As part of our newly forming non-profit sister organization, Kiwi K9 Project, we are hitting the road to meet up with co-founder Adam Haar (check out his story on page 26), to get things really moving! We’ve been quietly organizing, 102A Pond Street, Seekonk, MA raising funds and working on some pretty exciting video projects featuring www.caninemastery.com Rhode Island subjects, but now we’ve reached the point where we need to get back onto the same continent and have it all come together. We would love to invite you to follow the Animal Print along with Kiwi K9 Project as we cuddle Koalas, kiss Kangaroos (maybe we’ll skip the kissing) and check out all things dogs and dog rescue in the land down under. First up is Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane where we have been invited to visit their residents in mid August and are planning some live feeds and quick video/stories/ photos on Facebook and Instagram. Adam and Stephanie (editor of the Animal Print) will also be checking out local pet rescues where we plan to network with you and the locals to help some new friends find homes! Please come along on our journey and let us show you the other side of the planet through our eyes!

BEST

ycare

508-399-JUMP

Private In Home Training and Behavioral Modification

(outdoor seating)

Thank you Animal Print Readers

TOP DOG!

Magazine

INTERN WANTED The Animal Print is looking for a motivated intern to assist the editor in a variety of duties which include internet research, phone calls, marketing, data entry, errands/

deliveries, proofing, event help and general office help with the magazine. We are look-

20%

OFF Lunch!

ing for an easy going, self motivated and hard working person who is available at least 2 days a week.

(food only)

186 Fountain St, Providence www.trinitybrewhouse.com

102A Pond Street, Seekonk, MA www.caninemastery.com

voting us a

www.facebook.com/theanimalprint www.facebook.com/kiwik9project Instagram: @animalprintmag and @kiwik9project If you would like more info or to help support Kiwi K9 Project’s mission, please visit us at www.kiwik9project.com

Voted BEST

508-399-JUMP

Thank you for

You can find us here:

Pet Friendly Restaurant

• Pet Manners • Obedience • Conformation • Agility • Daycare • Problem Solving

Please send your resume and/or a short letter about yourself to info@theanimalprint.com

Scared About Anesthesia? Don’t Let Your Fears Make You Put Off Dental Care for Your Pets Written by Dr. Marty Becker DVM vetstreet.com

Anesthesia concerns cause many pet owners to put off dental cleanings, but those fears should be put into context when considering the overall need for essential preventive care for cats and dogs. Advanced periodontal disease not only makes eating a painful experience for the pet, but it also stresses internal organs with a constant shower of bacteria.As with humans, such advanced dental disease can shorten lifespan and decrease the quality of life.

Why Prescreening Tests Are Critical Preanesthetic screening is important: a physical examination and bloodwork can identify underlying problems that need to be addressed. In a young pet, the bloodwork could be just checking for anemia and basic indicators of organ health. In an older pet, it may mean a complete blood count, thyroid screen, checking kidney and liver values and making sure all organs are functioning properly.

Roles and Responsibilities

The Fears “I’m afraid my pet will die on the table,” an owner says. “I’m too afraid to put him under.” When I hear that, I know I have my work cut out for me. But though anesthesia (or any medical procedure, really) has risks, it has never been safer or more comfortable.

How Anesthesia Works The simplest definition of anesthesia is putting an animal into an unconscious state so the pet will be immobile and pain free during a procedure. Though many pet lovers think of veterinary anesthesia as a gas given through a mask over the animal’s face, in fact the modern practice of preparing an animal for surgery is a no-size-fits-all combination of injectable medications (often combining anesthesia and pain-control agents), anesthesia-inducing gas, and pure oxygen, the latter two delivered through a breathing tube to maintain an animal’s unconscious state.

Delmyra

Country Club for Dogs and Cats

Your veterinarian does her part to make anesthesia safer and so should you. Prior to surgery, follow your vet’s directions to the letter: no food after midnight means absolutely no food. It’s a matter of safety. During surgery, there will be constant anesthetic monitoring by machines and trained technicians, as well as the use of intravenous fluids during anesthesia to allow the veterinarian to react rapidly if need be. Animals are kept warm, since shivering increases oxygen consumption.

What Dental Care Means for You and Your Pet With safety measures in place, anesthetic risk is minimized to the extent that the benefits of dental care more than outweigh the concerns, no matter the age of your pet. If you’ve been putting off your pet’s dental care because of your fears, consider how much happier your pet will be after the fiery pain in his mouth has been extinguished.

NOW OFFERING

HOUSE CALLS

to Washington County and Block Island Seychelle Hoffer, DVM, CVA Sheila Tucker, DVM

Thanks For Voting Us

A Top Dog “Overnight Boarding” & “Best Place for Agility” • All forms of Obedience Training • State-of-the-Art Facilities • Climate-controlled

• C at Boarding in our seperate Cattery • Security & Fire alarms • Owners Live On Property

Scott & Ruth Gordon 191 Ten Rod Road,Exeter, RI (401) 294-3247 • www.delmyra.com

• Wellness Exams • Surgery •A cupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine • Integrative Medicine • Behavior Consults Thank you to our wonderful • Laser Therapy clients for voting us a • Dentistry

Top Dog!

Atlantic Animal Hospital & Wellness Center 5001B South County Trail, Charlestown, RI 401-364-BARK (2275) • www.atlanticanimalhospital.com

Other benefits of keeping your pet’s mouth healthy: o more bad breath. The awful smell that comes from the N mouths of many pets isn’t normal, no matter how many jokes about “doggy breath” or “tuna breath” you may have heard. After a dental cleaning you will find that your pet has kissable breath again, and it will last if you follow-up with regular care in the form of dental chews, rinses, or regular brushing. No more fussy eating. The mouths of some older pets are so painful that the pets have a hard time eating. Once bad teeth are removed and attendant problems treated, eating becomes a joy again. n increased lifespan. Chronic, advanced periodontal disease A shortens a pet’s life by stressing the organs and immune system. The chronic suffering also reduces the quality of life for the years a pet does have. So don’t waste another day worrying about anesthesia while your pet suffers. Your veterinarian is ready to help, with both the care your pet needs and the answers you do.

“Rambo” by Georgia Blue Photography

Join Our Team Foster A Homeless Pet!

Enter our

Calendar Contest

Fundraiser! Voting Begins on August 19th

$1 = 1 Vote

Top Winner Gets

Calendar Cover! and a month feature!

• All winners will receive a photo session and calendar feature! • “Pick a Day” for only $10

www.sosarl.org

Congratulations to the th

TOPDOG

11 nual An

READER’S CHOICE WINNERS!

We are thrilled to announce the winners of our 11th Annual Top Dog Readers’ Choice Survey! This year has proven to be our most popular yet, with voters in the thousands. It’s wonderful to see deserving local businesses get the recognition they deserve. This year we have again included a number of runners-up as many of the votes were so close, we felt these businesses deserved some recognition as well. Thank you to all our wonderful readers who took the time to vote and to the amazing local pet businesses and organizations who placed as Top Dogs!

Photo of Ruby at Wicked Tulips Flower Farm by Georgia Blue Photography

“Official” Dog Park

Runners-Up:

Pet Friendly Hotel/Inn (any location)

1st: Warwick Dog Park 2nd: South Kingstown Dog Park 3rd: Waterman St. Dog Park - PVD • Barrington Dog Park • Newport Dog Park

“Unofficial” Dog Park

• Block Island Ferry • Whole Foods pet aisle

1st: The Gothic Inn - Block Island 2nd: Woof Cottages - Nantucket, MA 3rd: The Paw House Inn - West Rutland, VT

1st: Goddard Memorial State Park East Greenwich 2nd: Lincoln Woods - Lincoln 3rd: Chase Farm - Lincoln

Runners-Up:

• Colt State Park - Bristol • Roger Williams Park - Providence

1st: Bruce’s Pet Grooming - Providence 2nd: RI Animal Medical Center/Four Paws Pet Resort –Warwick 3rd: Villiage Paws – Greenville, RI

Runners-Up:

Take Your Dog for A Swim

• The Darius Inn - Block Island • Lazy Dog Inn - Chocorua, NH

Groomer

1st: Narragansett Beach (off season) 2nd: Lincoln Woods 3rd: Goddard Memorial State Park

Runners-Up:

• Colt State Park • Block Island Beaches

Self-serve Dog Wash

Runners-Up:

Pet Friendly Bar

1st: Trinity Brewhouse - Providence, RI 2nd: Revival Brewing Co. Cranston, RI (call ahead) 3rd: S cotty’s Big Dawgs Restaurant and Pub - Middletown

Runners-Up:

• Style Unleashed - Barrington • ZPUP Dog Spa & Boutique - Lincoln

1st: The Cheeky Hound - Providence 2nd: Scrub-A-Pup - Cranston 3rd: PetValu

Runners-Up:

• ZPUP Dog Spa & Boutique - Lincoln • Puppy La Pew - Pawtucket

Mobile Dog Grooming

• Nick-A-Nees - Providence • O’Brien’s Pub- Newport

1st: The Salty Dog Mobile Grooming Spa 2nd: Fur Kidz Mobile Pet Grooming 3rd: The Houndstooth Mobile Grooming

Pet-Friendly Restaurant (outdoor seating)

• Green Groomer Mobile Pet Grooming • Door 2 Door Pet Grooming

1st: Trinity Brewhouse - Providence 2nd: Nick’s On Broadway - Providence 3rd: Garden Grille Cafe - Providence

Runners-Up:

• Julians Restaurant - Providence • India Restaurant - Providence

Pet-Friendly Coffee Shop (outdoor seating)

Runners-Up:

Pet Boutique

1st: The Cheeky Hound - Providence 2nd: Fetch RI - Richmond 3rd: W oof! Woof! Pet Boutique & Biscuit Bar - Bristol Continued on page 12.

1st: S even Stars Bakery Providence and Rumford 2nd: Coffee Exchange Providence 3rd: S tarbucks - Wayland Square, Providence

Runners-Up:

•M ain St. Coffee East Greenwich • The Coffee Depot - Warren

Meet Single Pet Lovers 1st:: Any City Dog Park 2nd: Bow Chika Wow Town Indoor Dog Park - Warwick 3rd: Blackstone Blvd. Providence

The Cheeky Hound Hope St. , Providence

TOPDOG Winners! 12

Continued from page 11.

Pet Boutique Runners-Up:

• Wag Nation – Newport • Plaid & Stripe - Providence

Dog Bakery

1st: Jack’s Snacks - Warwick 2nd: Woof! Woof! Pet Boutique & Biscuit Bar - Bristol 3rd: Bone Appetit Dog Bakery- East Greenwich

Runners-Up:

Made to order dog cakes from Jack’s Snacks in Warwick, RI

Bird Supply Runners-Up:

Pet Supply Store (National Chain)

• Pet Supllies Plus - RI • Oceans of Pets - Woonsocket

1st: Petco 2nd: PetValu 3rd: Pet Supplies Plus

• The Cheeky Hound - Providence • Scrub-A-Pup – Cranston

Dog Trainer

1st: Heather Gutshall ACDBC ,CPDT-KA 2nd: Off The Leash Doggie Daycare Attleboro, MA 3rd: • D ynamic Dog Training Services Warwick

Runners-Up:

Locally Owned Pet Supply Store

1st: R umford Pet Center - RI 2nd: Woof! Woof! Pet Boutique & Biscuit Bar - Bristol 3rd: Allies Tack & Feed - N. Kingstown

Runners-Up: • Critter Hut - Wakefield & N. Kingstown • Island Animal General Store - Jamestown

• Petsmart • Chewy

Bird Supply Store

Runners-Up:

1st: Jungle Junction 2nd: Critter Hut N. Kingstown, Wakefield, RI 3rd: Rumford Pet Center - RI

• Canine Mastery - Seekonk, MA • Katenna Jones, ScM, ACAAB, CCBC, CDBC, CPDT-KA Continued on next page.

Thank You

to our wonderful patients & their pet parents for voting us as this year’s Top Dog!

1st Place

Best Veterinary Practice/Hospital/Clinic

2nd Place

24 Hour Emergency Vet Hospital

2nd Place

Holistic Vet/Veterinary Practice

“Modern Medicine, Traditional Values”

564 Putnam Pike Greenville, RI 02828

•

401-949-5030

•

Emergency Veterinary Care Wellness Appointments Dental & Surgical Services Exotic Animal Specialists Acupuncture Laser Therapy

northpaws.com

13 Place for Agility Training

1st: K9 Connection - Warwick 2nd: Canine Mastery - Seekonk, MA 3rd: D ynamic Dog Training Services Warwick

Runners-Up:

• Delmyra Kennels - Exeter • MasterPeace Dog Training - Franklin, MA

Board & Train Facility

1st: Outbound Hounds - Cranston 2nd: Canine Behavioral Services Inc. Hope Valley 3rd: K9 Instincts Inc. - Portsmouth

Runners-Up:

• Solid K9 Training - Providence • Pack of Paws Dog Training Southbridge, MA

Dog Walking/Pet Sitting Service

1st: Paws N Claws 2nd: Ruffin’ Wranglers’ Dog Excursions 3rd Place Tie: • Furry Fellas Pet Service • I’ll Do It Pet Sitting

Runners-Up:

• Furry Friends Pet Care • Canine Cardio Company

Overnight Boarding Kennel

1st: Bow Chika Wow Town - Warwick 2nd Place Tie: • Off The Leash Doggie Daycare Attleboro, MA • RI Animal Medical Center & 4 Paws Pet Resort - Warwick 3rd: Delmyra Kennels - Exeter

Runners-Up:

• The Bark Republic, N. Providence • Hidden Acres Kennel - Rehoboth, MA

“In-Home” Overnight Pet Care 1st: Paws N Claws 2nd: Furry Fellas Pet Sitting 3rd: Furry Friends Pet Care

Runners-Up:

• Sit Stay Relax • Dorata via DogVacay (app)

Doggie Daycare

1st: Off The Leash Doggie Daycare Attleboro, MA 2nd: MetroPet Dog Center - Warwick, RI 3rd: R I Animal Medical & 4 Paws Pet Resort - Warwick

Runners-Up:

• The Barking Lot - Providence, • The Bark Republic- N. Providence

Electronic Pet Containment 1st: M oriarty’s Fence Co.Warwick/ Porsmouth/N. Stonington, CT 2nd: K-9 Contain & Train 3rd: Pet Stop Dog Fence RI/MA

Best Veterinary Practice/ Hospital/Clinic

1st: N orthPaws Veterinary CenterGreenville 2nd: Oaklawn Animal Hospital - Cranston 3rd Place Tie: Providence River Animal Hospital Warwick Animal Hospital - Warwick

R unners-Up: • Compassionate Care Veterinary Clinic Cumberland • Rhode Island Animal Medical Center & 4 Paws Pet Resort -Warwick Holistic Vet/Veterinary Practice

1st: W olf Rock Animal Health Center Exeter 2nd: NorthPaws Veterinary Center Greenville 3rd Place Tie: •A tlantic Animal Hospital & Wellness Center - Charlestown • Bayside Veterinary Care - Barrington Continued on page 24.

CRANSTON Animal Hospital Focusing on Wellness Services and Boarding. Courtney Rebensdorf, D.V.M. • Victoria Klibanoff D.V.M

Ask us About our Preventative Dental Cleaning Without Anesthesia. Become Our Fan On

401.943.0770 • www.cranstonvet.com • 1119 Park Ave., Cranston, RI

Oaklawn

Animal Hospital

A Full Service Companion Animal Hospital • Courtney Rebensdorf, D.V.M. • Honorata Lenk, D.V.M. • Julie Mahaney, D.V.M., M.S. • Abbey Stella D.V.M • Victoria Klibanoff D.V.M

Thank you for voting us a

TOP DOG Veterinary Practice

5 year’s in a row! Congratulations to the other Top Dog’s in this years Readers’ Choice!

Become Our Fan On

www.oaklawnanimalhospital.com

401.943.0500 655 Oaklawn Ave., Rt. 5 Cranston

Black Dog Syndrome Fact or Fiction

Black Dog Syndrome is a controversial theory that bigger, black dogs are often overlooked for adoption because of the belief that people prefer light colored dogs to darker colored dogs. Because of this, black dogs are believed to be euthanized at a higher rate. There have been many studies trying to decide if this theory is a fact or if it is just fiction. We did our research, and here are a few of the facts and myths of Black Dog Syndrome. Some of the beliefs for the reasons behind Black Dog Syndrome are that black dogs are not as easy to see when you look into a cage or at a photo, therefore people cannot see their distinguished features. There are also suggestions that black dogs look older than lighter colored dogs do, making them less desirable to the general public. Some even claim superstition can play its part when adopters determine not to choose a black dog. Most of these reasons however are not based in fact but mostly anecdotal stories. Christy L. Hoffman, a PhD and Professor of Animal Behavior at Canisius College conducted a study in 2016 trying to figure out if BDS is really a factor in adoptions. She investigated the role of color, age, sex and breed on the outcomes for the adoptions of dogs in two animal shelters in the United States over the span of four years of adoption records (nearly 16,700 dogs). This study proved black dog syndrome is a myth, and the data actually showed that black dogs had a shorter time span spent in the shelter than dogs of other colors. Her study determined that when it comes to adoptability, age and breed are much more important than color. She found bully breeds (American pit bull terriers, American Staffordshire terriers or Staffordshire bull terriers) faced a much longer stay in the shelters than big black dogs. Hoffman suggested that shelters that aim to promote the adoptions of black dogs could benefit by instead focusing their efforts on the breeds of dogs that do not get adopted out quite so easily. Continued on page 22. These beautiful images are from “Black Dog Project” by Dylan Collard

A project developing the studio, portrait side of Dylan’s work and combining his two passions, photography and dogs! “This is about the beauty, power, grace and character of the Black Dog as I put them on a pedestle for all to see.”

{Wandering Tales}

by Mike Fink

Mozart’s Starling It’s a very intelligent and lively account of a most unusual pet: an ordinary starling. The author, Lyanda Lynn Haupt, adopts and tames a wild starling. She compares her bond with “Carmen” to Mozart’s attachment to his beloved starling! She is quite frank, even blunt, about the species--a pest imported to our shores and taking nesting sites away from our native wild birds. She acknowledges that her foundling (rescued? stolen?) remains quite uncivilized, undomesticated. It poops on her head and makes a mess of her household. “I love introducing this goofy, pretty, smart bird to my friends, renewing a sense of raw beauty accessible when we are able to strip away our preconceptions. ‘I hate starlings,’ a guest will tell me. I ask my guest, ‘do you hate THIS starling?’ I contemplate Mozart who found inspiration in the presence of a common bird.” And she interprets his compositions eloquently. She goes so far as to suggest that Mozart’s feathered friend perhaps composed the motifs of his music! Her book is funny, wise, both personal and scholarly, poetic and quirky. Even philosophical. I tasted every nuance and flavor of each sentence,....until the final chapter, which turned too political and propagandistic for my taste. My war is a battle against opinions! I vastly prefer observation for its own sake. Don’t argue this point with me, it’ll take me

too far away from the starling itself, which this author describes both lovingly and in great detail, metaphorically and even mystically, its iridescence, its innate ornithological genius. I am entering a sabbatical semester and used my book allowance to browse among my habitual bookstalls and to explore new ones. I purchased “Mozart’s Starling” from Books on the Square, after a good deal of soul-searching and idle shopping around from one category to another. But animal tales always win the contest, for me. I read it with much pleasure and criticize it only as a part of my pleasure and my powers of resistance. While I am at it here, I want to declare that there is a new bookstore in town. “Riff Raff ” has been open only for a season, a few months, but it offers an assortment of unusual books, including a collection of poems, on the subject of cats! Plus, there is a bar and a cocktail lounge in the rear of this emporium. Took me several attempts to find this hidden corner of Olneyville, but if you need a book to put in your pocket or purse to amuse your idle moments, give it a try.

Visit us at: facebook.com/animalprintmagazine and get lots of extra news, event photos and a chance to win exclusive facebook contests!

Like Us On

Thank You for voting us

"Best Bird Supply Store" 10 consecutive years in the TOP DOG READERS CHOICE!

Take Advantage of our

Taste of Wild Frequent Buyer Progam!

thank you for voting us A Top Dog Six years in a row! - Dr. Jane Linden, DVM, and the staff at the Providence River Animal Hospital

We Also Carry PREMIUM PET FOODS as well as a huge selection of Toys and Cages!

We carry a LARGE selection of premium dog, bird and cat foods.

401-334-9611

Hours: Mon- Sat 10-6; Closed Sunday Bird wing and nail clippings by appointment.

Earth Animal

1270 Mendon Road • Cumberland, RI Conveniently located off Rte. 295 Exit 10

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Magazine

INTERN WANTED The Animal Print is looking for a motivated summer intern to assist the editor in a variety of duties which include internet research, phone calls, marketing, data entry, errands/ deliveries, proofing, event help and general office help with the magazine. We are looking for an easy going, self motivated and hard working person who is available at least 2 days a week.

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If you wish to be present during your pet’s cremation, we offer a comforting, private viewing area so that you may witness your loved one’s cremation. This service does require a scheduled appointment.

Your beloved pet will be placed into a completely private crematory chamber. We have designed and pioneered the most technically advanced, environmentally friendly equipment that allows for 100% private cremation while simultaneously reducing our carbon footprint.

Individual Cremation

Your cherished pet is placed individually into the crematory and kept separate from all other pets by means of partitions.

Communal Cremation Thank You For Making Us #1 for 8 Years In A Row!

Your pet will be cremated in a group setting with other beloved pets. This option maintains a high level of dignity but for a modest price. Pet ashes are scattered at our discretion on our beautiful cemetery grounds located at Pet Memorial Park.

Other Services • • • • • •

Guaranteed 72 hour cremation service Same Day cremation service is also available 24 hour emergency service 7 days a week/365 days a year Free access to the “Final Gift Online Grief Counseling Center” Our representatives are available to speak to you 24 hours a day A variety of urns, caskets and memorial items

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A member of our team will work with you and your family on selecting the private burial service that best fits your needs and your budget. We offer a variety of private burial packages that include a private burial space, casket of your choice and beautiful granite or bronze burial plaque.

Preplanning Burial Services

Prearranging pet memorial services carries with it many specific benefits, including: • A chance to discuss options with your family to receive their input • Time to reflect on the process and make the best, most informed decisions • Comfort knowing that you have prepared for your beloved pet’s passing • Financial peace of mind by securing budget-friendly prices through a prepay option Aftercare preplanning offers you the best path to be sure you give your cherished pet the final gift that it deserves. Pet Memorial Park is here to help you through each step of the way. It is never too early. Contact us today and we will help you begin the process.

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Ma ke A Ho us e A Ho me And T ha t We rl ast i n g Love With O ne Fina l Gif t.

Bolingo R.I.P

We were so saddened to hear about the loss our friend and long time Animal Print supporter, Lindsay Vincent’s sweet boy Bolingo. Lindsay who owns The Cheeky Hound in Providence was often with Bolingo. Many of you may have met him and witnessed how much his mom loved him. We wanted to share the note Lindsay wrote shortly after she lost him. “I have rewritten this 10x. I am in shock still. I have been this boys mom for almost 13 years; that’s a long time. I loved every second of it and I wish with all my heart I could have 13 more. Two weeks ago we were walking 3 miles a day and the vet said he did not look or act his age. Bolingo was the boss of the house, the fun police, he was my one constant for 13 years, my bug. The neurologist thought at first a slipped disc... nope. Cancer. It broke his back. I was able to spend some time with him but he was too much pain...I hope he heard me say I loved him and that Milly and the gang were waiting for him, wherever that might be. I hope they are running around and all together again. Give your dogs big hugs tonight. I had no idea mine would be gone today. It’s been an extraordinary adventure and I have loved every second being your mom. I can’t wait to see you again someday.”

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Black Dog Syndrome Continued from page 15.

It all breaks down to the number of dogs taken in. In the ASPCA’s “A Comprehensive Animal Risk Database” which pulled data from 14 communities of nearly 30,000 dogs, the results found that while black animals had one of the highest percentages of euthanasia in shelters, they also had the highest adoption rate of any colored animal. Black dogs had the highest percentage of intakes to shelters, meaning the likelihood of there being more black dogs in a shelter than other colored dogs is pretty high, however it does not mean that they are being overlooked based upon their color. ASPCA Vice President of Shelter Research Dr. Emily Weiss discussed the persistence of the myth despite all of the research to dispute it. She believes that because there are simply more black dogs, shelter workers believe in this syndrome and have become bias towards it. “They might see that black dogs are staying around longer, but that might just be because there are more black dogs in the shelter. I think some beliefs are hard to change, especially if someone has anecdotal evidence that there have been one or two black dogs that take longer to adopt.” While these studies show that people still do adopt black dogs, it is common that people look for a dog that stands out amongst the rest. This is why experts recommend separating dogs that are similar looking so that they aren’t lumped together and don’t seem common to adopters. Whether you believe in Black Dog Syndrome or not, one thing we can all agree on is no matter the color, breed, size, or age of a dog, they all deserve loving homes.

TOP DOG Winners! Continued from page 13.

Holistic Vet Runners-Up:

• Sharon R. Doolittle DMV, Inc., Smithfield • Laurie Lofton DVM, CVH, - Chepachet

24 Hour Emergency Vet Hospital

1st: Ocean State Veterinary Specialists East Greenwich 2nd: NorthPaws Veterinary Center Greenville 3rd: Tufts - MA

Runners-Up:

Atlantic Animal Hospital (house calls) Bayside Mobile Veterinary Care, Inc

Veterinary Rehabilitation Center

1st: Healing Paws - Providence 2nd: The Canine Joint - Walpole, MA 3rd: Tufts - MA

Runners-Up:

• RI K-9 Rehab - Newport • Rhode Island Pet Rehab - Charlestown

Animal Massage Therapist

• Bay State Veterinary Emergency Swansea •M ass-RI Veterinary E.R. Inc. Swansea, MA

1st: Jeff Corey - Healing Paws - Providence 2nd: Heather Watson at Natural Paws Pet Resort 3rd: Teri Derosiers at Zen Dog Canine Massage in K9 Connection

Mobile Vet

Runners-Up:

1st: All Pets Mobile Vet 2nd: Salmon River Vet (RI’s Mobile Vet) 3rd: C reature Comforts Mobile Vet

• Kerrie Ascoli - Spirit Animal Massage • Carolyn MacDonald - Wet Nose Canine Massage

Crematorium/Aftercare Facility 1st: F inal Gift Pet Cremation Services - RI 2nd: Angel View Pet Cemetery Middleborough, MA 3rd: P otter League for Animals Middletown, MA

Runners-Up:

• RISPCA - Riverside, RI • Faithful Friends - Warren

Pet Photographer

1st: Traer Scott Photography 2nd: Zen Dog Pet Portraits at K9 Connection 3rd: Catherine Hellmen (Whiskers Pet Portraits)

Continued on page 24.

{Community } Backyard!} {Dig Up Pet Events In Your

All Summer

Wednesdays All Summer! Dogs on the Deck

The Providence Animal Rescue Leauge is happy to partner with local dog friendly patios this summer as they bring back Dogs on the Deck! On most Wednesdays, you can find PARL camped out with an adoptable dog, swag and more as the following local eateries welcome us and donate 10% of sales! Come say hi!

August 8th and September 12th Ogie’s Trailer Park 6-8pm 1155 Westminster St., Providence, RI

August 15th and September 19th The Guild 6-8pm 461 Main St, Pawtucket, RI August 22nd and September 26th The Whiskey Republic 6-8pm 15 Bridge St. Providence, RI For more info visit www.parl.org

August

Sunday, August 12th Pints For Paws Pawchella

to Benefit Vintage Pet Rescue Join us for the pet event of the summer! PAWCHELLA will be a fun afternoon full of all things for pets and the owners that love them. There

will be pet-friendly vendors, music, food, and fun! We’ll also have plenty of Instagram-worthy photo opps for you and your pet. If you couldn’t make it to Coachella, then PAWCHELLA is the next best thing! Proceeds benefit Vintage Pet Rescue, a senior dog retirement home in North Kingstown, RI. https://www.vintagepetrescue.org/events

Friday, August 17th Pups in the Park

Join the Rhode Island SPCA as they team up with the Pawtucket Red Sox for “Pups in The Park” at McCoy Stadium. They will have adoptable dogs, food, and fun as the PawSox take on the Durham Bulls.Buy your tickets today to benefit the Rhode Island SPCA. 7-10pm www.rispca.com

Saturday, August 18th

Save One Soul Adoption Event at Sandy Paws Join SOS for an adoption event at Sandy Paws doggie daycare facility in Wakefield, RI! They will have 15+ adoptable dogs on site, plus limited edition SOS swag for sale. Time: 1-2pm for Pre-Screened Adopters; 2-4pm for the Public Location: Sandy Paws, 12 High St., Wakefield, RI. 401.661.9309. www.sandypawsri.com/

Sunday, August 19th PARL Vaccination & Microchipping Clinic

Clinic offer rabies vaccinations (1yr), canine or feline distemper vaccinations (1yr), and microchipping. $20 each, or all 3 for $50. The Providence Animal Rescue League’s clinics are first come, first served and run from 11am1pm located at 34 Elbow Street in Providence. For more information, call 401.421.1399.

Saturday, August 25th

Funny 4 Fido Comedy Night A night of laughs and fun all to help save the lives of dogs under the care of Save One Soul Animal Rescue League. 6-9pm at Newport Blues Cafe 286 Thames St., Newport, RI. Tickets available at www. funny4funds.com

September

Saturday, September 22nd Pet Walk 2018

Pet Walk is back for 2018!! Providence Animal Rescue League will be hosting our 29th annual Pet Walk event! Pet Walk is an exciting, outdoor event for both dogs and people that encourages healthy activity while raising funds. This year’s Pet Walk boasts activities like a mutt’s marketplace, doggie day spa and of course a walk that is just under

3 miles through the scenic Roger Williams Park in Providence, RI! There will be prizes for top pack fundraisers and top individual fundraisers! For more info visit www.parl.org

8:00 AM to 3:00 PM – RISPCA Horse and Rider Versatility @ Goddard Memorial State Park, East Greenwich, RI. For more info visit www.rispca.com

Saturday, September 22nd

2018 Pints for Pups: A Foolproof Fundraiser for Paws New England

16th Annual “Paws in the Park” Dog walk to benefit the RISPCA 10:00am to 2:00pm Bring your dog(s), friends, and family and join us for a fun day in the park! They will have dog/owner look-a-like contest, costume contest, and best trick contest, canine agility course for you and your dog and much more– great prizes for the winners! 16th Annual Paws in The Park Dog Walk @ Rosa Larisa Park, 701 Bullocks Point Ave, Riverside, RI. For more info, visit www.rispca.com

October

Sunday, October 14th

3rd Annual Crate Escape 5K The 3rd Annual Crate Escape 5K to benefit Save One Soul Animal Rescue Leauge will be held at 8 a.m. on Oct. 14 at Slater Memorial Park in Pawtucket. This year dogs are invited (current Rabies certificate required)! Enjoy a beautiful 5K course, while benefiting dogs who need loving homes! Sign up before Oct. 13 online and save $5 on registration. T-shirts will be available for the first 200 registrants. The race is chip timed, with top finisher prizes. There will also be vendors, a DJ and the Paws, the Pawtucket Red Sox team mascot at the event. For more info visit www.sosarl.org

Sunday, October 14th

Horse and Rider Versitility w/RISPCA In 2018 RISPCA will be holding a series of horse and rider versatility event with year-end awards. 4 Divisions - Beginner, Open, Junior, In Hand. Remember the more events you attend…..the better chance you have to earn points towards year-end awards.

Saturday, October 18th

Join Paws New England for an evening of pints to support our Pups! They will have beer, raffles, live entertainment, and food trucks! Rescuer tickets include: entrance to the event, 2 beers at Foolproof Brewery, a Foolproof pint glass to take home and a donation to Paws New England! Designated Rescuer Driver: Includes just entrance to the event and a donation to Paws New England! (Note the Designated Driver tickets do not include beers or a pint glass). A portion of their sales will be donated back to Paws New England! For more info visit www. pawsnewengland.com

Every Saturday

Pet Care Live

6:30am on 630WPRO listen to “PET CARE” live with Dr. Paradise

Dog Walking Group Rhode Island Dog Playgroups & Walks is a fun Facebook group for responsible dog owners in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts who would like meet up for walks, hikes or play dates! If you’re interested in joining, look up Rhode Island Dog Playgroups & Walks on Facebook.

Book Your Portrait Session Now!

WEEKLY/MONTHY Every Monday Night

Meet & Greet Mondays 4-6pm. Come meet the adoptable dogs from Save One Soul Animal Rescue League! Visit sosarl.org and their facebook page each week to see the dogs attending the Meet & Greet. No application or pre-approval required! Meets will take place at Bow-Chika-Wow Town 27 Meadow St., Warwick, RI

Every Saturday

VSA on WJAR Channel 10 A volunteer with the Providence chapter of Volunteer Services for Animals (VSA) appears Saturday mornings on WJAR Channel 10 at approximately 9:15am with a cat or dog available for adoption and is currently residing at the Providence Animal Care and Control. facility. Through this segment, the Providence Chapter has had great success with finding many, many animals a forever home.

traer scott phot ography

www.traerscott.com

Magazine

INTERN WANTED The Animal Print is looking for a motivated intern to assist the editor in a variety of duties which include internet research, phone calls, marketing, data entry, errands/

deliveries, proofing, event help and general office help with the magazine. We are looking for an easy going, self motivated and hard working person who is available at least 2 days a week.

Please send your resume and/or a short letter about yourself to info@theanimalprint.com

TOPDOG Winners! 24

Continued from page 21.

• Wendi Arndt

Photography Runners-Up:

House Cleaning Service for People With Pets

Pet Illustrator/Painter

Runners-Up:

• GeorgiaBlue Photography • Maria Giannini Photography

1st: Kerrie Ascoli 2nd: Laurelin Sitterly 3rd: Beth Maquire

Runners-Up:

1st: Maid Pro 2nd: Ocean State Housecleaning 3rd: New England Pro Maids

• Wellness • Life’s Abundance • Acana • Taste of the Wild

• J and M Pro Cleaning - N. Providence • Simply Spotless, Wakefield, RI

Volunteer Group/ Shelter/Rescue

Dog Food

• Laurie Lynn Lawton

2nd: FROMM 3rd: Merrick

1st: Blue Buffalo

1st: H andsome Dan’s Rescue For Pit Bull Type Dogs 2nd: Providence Animal Rescue League 3rd: East Greenwich Animal Protection League

Runners-Up:

Compassionate Care Veterinary Clinic Progressive Medicine in a Family Practice Atmosphere

Dr Linda Farrington, Dr Ranjini Abraham Dr Laura Roman, Dr Richard Coates & Dr Amy Kaspryzcki

+ Wellness Care + Hospital Services + Surgical Services + Dental Services + Emergency Visits Thank you for voting us a Top Dog!

+ M-F 8am - 11pm and Weekends 8am - 4pm + www.ccvcri.com 1509 Mendon Rd. Cumberland, RI 401.333.7911

• Potter League For Animals • Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

Pet Event

1st: P rovidence Animal Rescue League’s “Pet Walk” 2nd: Providence Animal Rescue League’s “The Rescue” 3rd: P otter League’s “Walk For Animals”

Runners-Up:

• RISPCA Howling Hounds Walk • Rescue Ride Warwick Animal Shelter

Congratulations to all of the amazing winners! Voting for our 12th annual Top Dog Readers’ Choice will begin soon! Thank you to everyone who voted this year.

th 29nual An

pETWALK 2018

PARL.ORG To benefit the Face of PetWalk

Zorro!

Saturday, September 22, 2018 Roger Williams Park

Providence

rain or shine | 401.421.1399 |

10:00 AM ~ 2:00 PM

www.parl.org

{Community}

A beautiful beach dog in the Dominican Republic that I named Brindle Baby.

THE KIWI

THE DOGS AND THE

PASSION PROJECT Written by Adam Haar

How four months volunteering at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and a chance meeting is changing the lives of two people.

orn in New Zealand in the year of the dog, which many may find irrelevant, I’ve learned that it’s the little things in life that make the big differences.

I grew up with a love for dogs that stretched as far back as I can remember. At an early age, I was exposed to my relatives dogs, at home however, under directly rule of my parents, they were not so keen on having pets of any kind. Needless to say after being denied a dog of my own that spanned my adolescence, I naturally became the caring parent to a beautiful pity mix as soon as I moved out. I most appropriately named her Sooty after she disappeared under a parked car in the driveway and came out with a big soot mark on her face. Years passed under the spell of this stunningly beautiful and loving creature which had unwittingly adopted the nickname “whizzer”, because she peed uncontrollably just a little every time I came home. Years later, living in Australia and working long hours in the mines, I found myself at a crossroads... while I was making a good living, I knew something was lacking... passion. During a single conversation on this topic with a close friend, I set my sights on a new course. In retrospect, many, including myself now believe it was my destiny, if you believe in such things. Two weeks after that conversation, I was volunteering at the Canine Behavior & Dog Psychology Centre, 2 hours from where I lived in Sydney. I spent my days there learning unique concepts of training and communication. Around this same time, a close friend recommended I watch a U.S. documentary called The Champions.

The documentary follows a group of dogs that were seized from a high profile NFL player who was running a dog fighting ring. The people involved in the court caseworked tirelessly to change the legislations in which “fighting dogs” were handled after being seized. Sadly not all the dogs were deemed safe and able to be rehabilitated, but a number of them were and the film documented their transformation and journey to their forever homes. I was incredibly moved by this film and my first thought was, how can I get in touch with this amazing organization featured and get involved! I Adam meeting Handsome Dan for the first time.

discovered that Best Friends Animal Society runs a volunteer internship program in Utah, spanning various lengths of time. Since I would be coming all the way from the southern hemisphere, I was going to make this worth my while and do it properly. I decided to apply for their 4 months voluteer internship. About eight months passed which included a mound of paper work as well as a number of Skype interviews and in the end I was humbly accepted. Having the opportunity to volunteer at the facility that once housed and cared for the dogs I had seen in the documentary left me very humbled. I was excited to immerse myself in a land of dogs, and that’s exactly what I got. Dogs from every walk of life, every background imaginable were coming through Dog Town and being cared for by like minded people that wanted to learn and give back any way they could. Quite simply, to fill their lives with more passion. My volunteer experience included learning and interacting in 5 different areas within Dog Town. These areas included dogs of various abilities such as being able to live and socialize in a group, dogs that loved people, small dogs, and some that were unable to coexist with any other dog in their run or even have any physical contact with humans. Everyday both myself along with some amazing people would travel to the canyon in Kanab and give their all to enrich the lives of every dog they could. I never could have imagined the knowledge I would gain and will carry with me the rest of my life. After four months my time was done. It was time to hit the road with a drive for adventure I had become accustomed to.

“Unknown to the both of us at the time, was just how intertwined and serendipitous our chance meeting was.” I first headed south and made my way in counter-clockwise around the states, dodging hurricanes and jumping shores to the Dominican Republic in accordance with my visa. This also just gave me the perfect opportunity to connect with the countless homeless dogs that wander the streets and beaches, surprisingly in good health, being fed by travellers no doubt. Making my way up the east coast I reached Providence, Rhode Island, where I crossed paths with an amazing woman named Stephanie. You may know her as the editor of this magazine. Unknown to the both of us at the time, was just how intertwined and serendipitous our chance meeting was. After a couple of days hanging out, sharing life stories, our love of documentaries, discussing the importance of following your passion and my time at the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary - oh and a fair amount of what Australian’s call ‘taking the piss out of each other’; Stephanie mentioned that one of the dogs (Handsome Dan), featured in documentary, The Champions, lived in Rhode Island. She then sent off a quick text and the next day, Heather his adopter, invited me over to meet them both; a jaw dropping moment for me, like meeting a celebrity. Having moved on from my short lived adventure in Rhode Island with Stephanie, I carried on north. I eventually found myself over the border in Toronto, to visit some very old friends when I received a rather unique message from Stephanie proclaiming that she “knew what I was going to do with the rest of my life” and was willing to embark this new found wisdom upon me. My response was quite simply “this should be good”. Continued on next page.

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Continued 28 from page 27.

THE KIWI

THE DOGS AND THE

PASSION PROJECT

Stephanie and Adam, co-founders of Kiwi K9 Project.

Written by Adam Haar

Admittedly there was definitely a few less smart ass ways to answer, and that one had me having to wait a few days before she felt I had suffered in suspense enough to share with me a simple idea that we would eventually co-found and call Kiwi K9 Project. I love meeting new people, and when you are genuine of heart, its easy for people to relax around you and warm to those kind of decent human traits. Stephanie and I seemed to have a similar way to connect with friends, strangers and each other, so it made sense to quite simply use this natural connection we have with each other and people we meet to discover stories related to dogs around the world that move, inspire and educate both of us and undoubtedly people like us. Something else that revealed itself after we met is that we both have a serious love of filmmaking, visual storytelling and have been quietly pursuing small personal project for quite some time. So, as you can see... many elements of this simple idea had begun to align in a way that some might call destiny...again, if you believe in such things.

Photo by Traer Scott If you are interested in following our project, learning more and seeing what Stephanie and I are up to in Australia, please find/follow and join us on Instagram @KiwiK9Project and Facebook www. facebook.com/kiwik9project.com. We also have a mailing list to join if you would like to be one of the first see our video series!

My travels continued, whilst most of my day was subconsciously spent thinking about Kiwi K9 Project and my new found life mission. I still had many adventures to lose myself in before heading back to Australia and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exactly what I did. However, a point came where it was obvious to the both of us that only so much can be achieved whilst on the road with Skype calls and texting, so we decided that I would fly back to Rhode Island for 2 weeks before the end of my U.S. adventure and see if what started as seed of an idea could actually grow some legs. Our two weeks of working and living together was a raging success! We hit the ground running. Being in the same room and brainstorming, fuelled the fire like never before. Nothing could stop us. We learned and accomplished more than I think either one of us thought possible in such a short amount of time. We covered everything from a finished logo design and mission statement, right through to meeting with a lawyer and filming some amazing footage for two feature stories that we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to share! This brief time would lay the foundation for what is now an evolving passion project. I am now back in Australia where I am based, working remotely on opposite time zones to Steph, while she remains at the heart and birthplace of our great new venture. But, by the time you read this, she will be on a plane heading to Australia so that we can get Kiwi K9 Project fully organized and begin the exciting next phase of our new non-profit venture! We have a growing list of items to accomplish and I cannot wait to get to work!

Also, if you are interested in getting involved, we are in need of help with social media, grant research, event coordinator, sponsorships and a host of other duties related to non-profit organizations. Thank you! Adam

Goodbye to Handsome Dan

Shortly before the printing of this article, I learned that Handsome Dan had passed away. My thoughts go out to Heather and her family. Dan was a beautiful soul who will be missed by everyone that knew him.

www.KiwiK9Project.com

Saying goodbye to one of the last Vicktory Dogs,

Handsome Dan Written by his mom, Heather Gutshall

Photo: Firefly Filmworks

an was among the more than seventy dogs seized in a raid at the Bad Newz Kennels dogfighting operation, run at Michael Vick’s Virginia compound, in 2007. He was adopted to a Rhode Island family and became a bit of local celebrity as well as an amazing reminder that despite a history of severe abuse, he was a survivor who was able to blossom because someone gave him a chance.

A letter from Heather:

By the time you are reading this, Dan will be gone. He suffered another stroke a few weeks ago; this one worse than the last. By last week, he had stopped eating regularly and had lost weight and muscle mass. He had no use of the back half of his body. In his final days, Dan was no longer responding to his human friends. He was defeated. While this was one of the most difficult choices I have ever had to make, with his entourage of closest humans, we made a plan. That plan was to have Dr. Lester come to our home and help Dan go to sleep. On his last day, Dan was allowed to drag himself around the house and yard (something he had wanted, but had been not allowed to do due to risk of further spinal injury.) He went for a car ride, sat in the grass at the park near his favorite wooded trail, ate three scrambled eggs and settled softly on his spot on the couch. I sat with him, loving him with every cell in my body and every ounce of emotion in my soul. It was time,

and I knew the best way to love him was to let him go. To My Dearest One, Handsome, your presence in my life, the gift of your companionship, has been my privilege, my honor, an absolute blessing, every second. You have guided me, kept my heart safe. You have had a profound impact on how I chose to spend my time on this planet. In your name, over 300 dogs with medical/behavioral issues, and survivors of dogfighting, have found their place in this world which previously was a cold and lonely. Your needs guided me. Your spirit inspired me. You gave me purpose. As you know, Handsome, I am not the strongest of humans. I feel things deeply, I break easily, and I generally choose a to spend my time quietly with you in our home. Thank you for being my ‘one’. Thank you for letting me snuggle you, for making me smile countless times. Thank you for the silliness that others rarely saw. Thank you for helping me be better for you, making me better for other dogs. I will keep going. I promise. I pondered stepping away from rescue when this time came. Would I ever want to see another homeless dog? But I will, in your name the organization will continue. I will wipe my tears, walk back into shelters, find the most broken-down pathetic ones way in the back, smile, and remember you as I enter their cage. I will take you with me every step. Though I know the steps will be heavy and difficult. I will carry with me

for the rest of time. You have helped to change the landscape for dogs who suffered similar trauma. Thank you for the privilege of having been your person, and to sharing you though photos with the world, showing how far you have come from that initial dark place, I hope I have done you justice, My Love. You have been more forgiving of our species than we could have ever been of yours. You trusted us when you had no reason to trust, when all that came before told you to run and hide. But you found courage, even if only inside of our fence, our home, with your small circle of friends. I don’t know how tomorrow will look. I have no idea how to recover from this profound loss. What I know is that this is not about me, it’s about a you. So I will smile, hold you dear, continue to send you love to remind you what you have meant to me and my family. Now I have let you go. You don’t need your body anymore, your work here is done. Be free from pain, and fear, and know I am forever grateful for every moment. All My Love, Mama

Dan inspired his family to found their own rescue group, Handsome Dan’s Rescue For Pit Bull Type Dogs. They now help others in Rhode Island, reach their new lives. For more info or to help support their cause visit www.handsomedansrescue.org

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Meet

Tyson!

Photo by Karen Kalunian

If you are looking for a young handsome beefcake, then look no further you just found Tyson! His coat is brindle perfection, it looks like a work of art and his personality is just as wonderful. He loves car rides, walks on the leash and even the water! He is best suited for a home with older children and no other pets. Tyson is super smart

and loves to give kisses! While Tyson enjoys being active, he will happily snuggle on the couch with you! You can read more about Tyson at www.handsomedanrescue.org or email Heather@obhounds.com for more information. Tyson is ready and waiting to meet you and hoping to start his new life in your home!

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Photo of “Bamm Bamm” by Karen Kalunian

Pebbles and Bamm Bamm are a beautiful bonded pair of Yellow-collared Macaws. Their plumage is mostly gorgeous shades of green with a bright yellow collar. Both Pebbles and Bamm Bamm love to dance, they feed each other and are a lovely duo! These birds were part of a bird seizure and would really like to find a bird loving home. Bamm Bamm is

Pebbles & Bamm Bamm a bit bolder than Pebbles, she is a bit shy and she also only has one foot. Having only one foot doesn’t stop her, you would never even know it! You can contact the RI Parrot Rescue at riparrots.org. You can also email riparrot@gmail.com. Rhode Island Parrot Rescue is located at2141 West Shore Rd., Warwick. Rescue visits are by appointment only.

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