cats and DOGS
A Magazine Devoted to Companion Animals
Roscoe – Page 19
Life with Willow – Page 20
Hedgehogs as Pets – Page 23
February 2018
Lynn Hopkins and Jack the Therapy Cat – Page13
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Cats and Dogs a Magazine Devoted to Companion Animals Now in its 12th year of publication with a dedicated following of more than 11,000 readers every month. Contact us for advertising opportunities catsanddogsmagazine@comcast.net
616-777-0645 Thank You!
To all the advertisers and sponsors who make this publication possible.
CONTENTS Animals for Adoption BestPals Animal Rescue ..................................................
5
Muskegon Humane Society .........................................
7
Noah Project ........................................................................
8
Reuben’s Room Cat Rescue ............................................
14
Almost Every Month On the Wild Side ................................................................
4
Business Card Directory .............................................. 10 Furry Philosophy ............................................................... 11 Cat Corner ............................................................................. 15
Lyndsey Sturgeon of Lost Paws Page 18
Calendar of Events .......................................................... 16 Life with Willow ................................................................ 20 Community Resource Guide ....................................... 21 West Michigan Critter Haven .................................. 23
Features Local Businesswoman Nominated ..........................
9
Chow hound Expands ....................................................
9
Jack the Therapy Cat .......................................................
13
Carol’s Ferals .......................................................................
17
Lost Paws .................................................................................
18
Roscoe ......................................................................................
19
Cats and Dogs PO Box 996, Jenison, MI 49429-0996 616-777-0645 catsanddogsmagazine@comcast.net www.catsanddogsmagazine.com Cats and Dogs, founded in 2006, is a free publication supported by advertisers. They are distributed throughout Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon and surrounding counties. We are not responsible for services and products advertised. January 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com
Eve needs a home Page 5
Your feedback and ideas for articles are welcome. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher. Publisher: Janet Vormittag Owner: JLV Enterprises LLC Home delivery of Cats and Dogs is $24 per year. Make your check payable to Cats and Dogs and mail to: Cats and Dogs, P.O. Box 996, Jenison, MI 49429-0996 For advertising information: 616-777-0645 or catsanddogsmagazine@comcast.net.
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On the Wild Side with Allyson Swanson We at Wildlife Rehab Center are advocates for wildlife, meaning our goal is to rehabilitate and release back into the wild. However, occasionally we find ourselves in situations where an animal cannot be released. These animals can sometimes become part of our education program where their new purpose is to help educate people about their species. Cookie, our education opossum was amazing at that job. The common misconception about opossums is that they are mean, dirty and disease ridden. Cookie tore down all those fears the moment anyone met her. Her pristine white fluffy fur, her pink nose and almost smiling face made it hard to see her as anything but sweet. Opossums are not pets and as amazing as it was to be her guardian, we do not condone the keeping of them. Health reasons caused her to be non-releasable but what gave her life meaning was the enrichment and interactions we had with one another. I will never forget her rough tongue “grooming me” or our late-night enrichment walks outside under the moon. It breaks our hearts, and mine in particular, to announce that Cookie passed away on Monday, Dec. 18, just a couple months shy of her 3rd birthday. She was in my arms as she drew her last breath, and she left us knowing as much love as I could give her. Her passing has left a huge hole in many hearts, mine in particular. I was her handler, but also her “mom” and companion. Cookie was a gentle, sweet soul. Easy going, affectionate and kind. I struggle to find the words to describe what an honor it was to be hers; to have a wild animal that could and should fear me, look to me for security and companionship. What has touched me even more, is the number of cards, condolences and donations we have received honoring her life and her work. To hear how many people now, because of Cookie, treat opossums with respect and care, where before there was fear and disgust, makes the heartbreak worth every moment. Rest in peace, sweet Cookie. You will be forever loved and remembered. Allyson Swanson is a Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator with Wildlife Rehab Center Ltd, 1504 Union Ave NE, Grand Rapids. She has been licensed for the past four years but started as a volunteer over twelve years ago. Since then she has worked with countless species of birds and mammals and has become one of the main local resources for Virginia Opossums. She is also the Center’s Education Coordinator and does presentations with their Educational Ambassador animals. allyson@ wildlife-rehab-center.org – 616-606-5805. Cats and Dogs - 4
From the Editor Janet Vormittag
Years ago I had an indoor-outdoor cat who disappeared. He was white guy with mismatched eyes; one blue, one green. He got his name from the blue one. Blue went missing in the spring when there were still patches of snow on the ground, which made it impossible to find a white cat. Not knowing what happened to him was hard. He was a friendly kitty who would approach anyone, which gave me the hope someone picked him up and gave him a new home. I have a fascination with lost and found pets. I frequently see postings for such pets on Facebook and bulletin boards. Why don’t more of them match up? If you’re read my novel, Dog 281, you know the premise of the story is what happens to dogs who go missing. It was inspired by my sister’s black lab who disappeared and was never found. One of the dogs in the fictional narrative is named Blue, after you-know-who. This month I’ve written an article for Cats and Dogs (page 18) about a woman who is dedicated to uniting missing pets with their people. Lyndsey Sturgeon, who founded Lost Paws LLC, is knowledgeable in the behaviors of cats and dogs. She’s also familiar with the scenarios surrounding missing animals and has helped find close to 100 animals. I also have a story about a dog named Roscoe who went missing on New Year’s Eve (page 19). I had hoped the article would help bring the Australian shepherd home. But a happy ending was dashed when Roscoe was found on the side of the road close to two weeks after he didn’t come home from a potty break. Despite all we do to keep our animals safe, things happen. Collars with tags, microchips and fences are not infallible, but getting help when your pet goes missing increases the odds of a happy ending. I wish there had been a Lyndsey Sturgeon to call when Blue went missing.
Thank You!
To all the advertisers and sponsors who make this publication possible.
www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • February 2018
BestPals Animal Rescue Center The Mission of BestPals Animal Rescue Center is to provide a guaranteed adoption for companion animals and to partner with other organizations to provide a no-kill community. We welcome you to visit our wonderful pets! 13888 Blair St., Holland, MI Call/Text for an appointment: 616.212.3368 Contact: bestpalsarc@gmail.com to foster, adopt or volunteer www.bestpalsarc.wix.com/bestpals - Facebook - Twitter - Instagram Bandit is a 5-year-old beautifully tiger striped male cat who arrived from a family that had children off to college and didn’t have time for him. It’s a sad story looking for a happy ending. He is a friendly indoor cat and great mouser. Bandit likes his space and may be best as only cat with older kids.
Eve
Liz
Eve is a 2-year-old petite medium haired female. She Who needs a lap kitty? Lilly is an loves being up on the high places. She’s a very sweet girl 8-year-old female grey tabby who who enjoys being held and petted. She tends to be a bit shy and overwhelmed if there is a lot going on around loves everyone. She came to us from another shelter and was diag- her. She’s good with other cats and curious about dogs. She’s bonded with Liz who is another shy girl. nosed with diabetes so she needs two insulin shots daily, which she Meet Trillium and her son doesn’t mind at all as long as she Pepe who have a special bond. gets snuggles and kisses. Trillium is 2 years old. She is affectionate and loving but doesn’t Fairbanks and Mukluks like other cats or dogs, except are a 4-year-old male and Pepe. Pepe is 5 months old. He female bonded pair. They is fun loving, feisty and playful. would be great with an older He was born blind, but he never couple or family without a lets that stop him. dog. “Banks” is outgoing and chatty whereas “Lexi” is more Ty is a 3 1/2 year old male pit bull laid back. They are good with terrier mix who is good with other children. dogs. He needed to be returned Ivy and Suzy are two beaubecause he did not do well with tiful calico girls with unique the resident cat and younger markings. They are a bit shy, child. An active single or couple but they’re coming around with would be best who will take him more attention. They love treats for walks/runs and trips to the and like to play. They would be dog park. best adopted together. A special thanks to Noah’s Pet Cemetery & Crematory for sponsoring our page.
February 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com
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Janet Vormittag is a publisher, author and animal advocate. She is the author of two novels, Dog 281 and More Than a Number. Her latest book, You Might be a Crazy Cat Lady if ... is a collection of short stories that is a humorous memoir about living with cats. Janet is also the publisher of Cats and Dogs, a Magazine Devoted to Companion Animals.
Reviews (from Amazon) You Might be a Crazy Cat Lady if ... Wins Coveted Royal Dragonfly Book Award CHANDLER, AZ – The judges of the 2017 Royal Dragonfly Book Awards contest, which recognizes excellence in all genres of literature have spoken, and You Might be a Crazy Cat Lady if ... by Janet Vormittag, won second place in three categories; animal/pet, best cover and memoir. “Winning any place in the Royal Dragonfly Contest is a huge honor because in order to maintain the integrity of the Dragonfly Book Awards, a minimum score is required before a First, Second or Honorable mention will be awarded to the entrant -- even if it is the sole entry in a category,” explains Linda F. Radke, president of the Dragonfly Book Awards program. “Competition is steep, too, because there is no publication date limit as long as the book is still in print.”
You Might be a Crazy Cat Lady if ... $13.95 plus tax ($14.79)
Free shipping
Free shipping if bought through PayPal at www.janetvormittag.com or by check. Make check out to Janet Vormittag and mail to: Cats and Dogs P.O. Box 996 Jenison, Mi 49429-0996 Also available at Amazon.com Cats and Dogs - 6
5.0 out of 5 stars A page-turning delight By Gayle Thompson Are you a crazy cat lady? You might be a crazy cat lady if … is how the intro to each chapter begins, followed by a descriptor, such as, “You might be a crazy cat lady if … you go to an animal shelter to pick up four kittens and leave with 16 kittens,” or “You might be a crazy cat lady if … instead of photographs of smiling children in your wallet, on your phone, on your refrigerator or hanging on your walls, you have photographs of cats,” or “You might be a crazy cat lady if … you go to a garage sale and the only thing you come home with is a kitten.” This page-turner tells the journey (to date) of one woman’s many lives with various cats and how she met each one just as it needed her most. It is obvious from these stories that Janet has a special kinship with cats. She can tune-in with each one, no matter how different one personality is from another. Each story is heartfelt. You may need a tissue here and there, but you’ll also laugh and delight in each story and each cat. 5.0 out of 5 stars Thank you Janet By Amy L. Johnson I’m not a “Crazy Cat Lady.” I have always considered myself a dog-person. Nothing against cats, I love them. I have been the guardian of two cats. One I inherited, and the other was a rescue. The tendency to shy away from cats was simply because of the allergies in my family. This book, You Might Be a Crazy Cat Lady If . . . was a delight to read. The quotes, the humor, the toil, the heartbreak, the journeys, and the photos all wrapped around Janet’s actual experience made it an adventure. Janet let me into her world and educated me on the concept of a “catio.” Basically, it is a patio for cats. Who knew? I am looking forward to Janet’s next book, as she continues to do what she does best: rescue, love, and write. Thank you Janet, you are truly something special. 5.0 out of 5 stars I LOVED this book By T Morr I LOVED this book!!! I laughed more than once on almost every page!...cried for sure on the last chapter. It’s a very “feel good” book. When I would have to set it down I was always thinking about this and that of the situation and couldn’t wait to get back to reading it, to read the next thing. Beautiful, beautifully written book! www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • February 2018
Paid for by Clock Timeless Pets!
February 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com
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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • February 2018
Local Businesswoman was nominated as a finalist for Entrepreneur of the Year in Magazine Devoted to Women Pet Professionals Jodi Clock of Muskegon can be seen in the Top Women in the Pet Industry Magazine for Winter 2017. Now in its ninth edition, this unique biannual magazine spotlights women working in the steadily growing pet industry. Women in the Pet Industry Network (WIPIN) President and Publisher Shawna Schuh says, “It allows us to showcase the talent and leadership of women doing amazing things out front and behind the scenes of the pet industry. Of special interest in the Winter 2017 issue is the headline of 2017 Pet Industry Woman of the Year (PIWY) Gila Kurtz with Dog is Good.” This issue includes profiles on women who are making a decided mark in the pet industry. It is a hefty collection of quick-and-easy-to-read, sure-to-inspire stories and Q&As with photos. Each woman’s profile or Q&A reveals how and why she’s achieved success and how she is making life better for pets, pet parents and industry peers. In addition there are ads for products manufactured and services offered by dozens of innovative and talented pet industry women. The majority of those profiled serve North American pet parents, who are expected to spend $69 billion dollars by the end of 2017, according to the Industry Trends. That’s nearly 60 percent of the $98 billion global pet industry. These dynamic women are key players in the pet industry’s phenomenal growth—up $24 billion over the last decade in the United States, recession and all. Jodi M. Clock, is a certified pet loss professional who founded, owns, and operates Western Michigan’s only pet parent direct pet loss center that offers private cremation services, burial assistance and grief support; Clock Timeless Pets in Muskegon. Details about her business can be found on page(s) 30-31 of the magazine. For information on Jodi M. Clock, contact her directly at jodi@clockfuneralhome.com or 231-3435866. www.clocktimelesspets.com / www.jodiclock.com. February 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com
Store Manager Julie Ledger (2nd from right) and staff in front of the new Chow Hound Pet Supplies store on Burton Street.
Grand Rapids-Based Chow Hound Pet Supplies Keeps Growing Grand Opening Sale for New Portage Store February 10-11 GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Chow Hound Pet Supplies will offer chain-wide savings of 10 percent off dog food, cat food, and cat litter, and 20 percent off almost everything else the weekend of Feb. 10 & 11 to celebrate the opening of its 10th West Michigan store. The new store at 6749 S. Westnedge in Portage will also give away prizes on Saturday, Feb. 10 including 10 six-month supplies of pet food, 10 six-month of free dog washes, and $10 gift cards to the first 25 customers. In January, Chow Hound opened a new store at 2490 Burton St. SE, Grand Rapids, next to Fresh Thyme Market, replacing its Breton Village location. Like all Chow Hound Pet Supplies locations, the new Burton Street store offers premium pet food and products, convenient self-service dog washing stations fully stocked with everything needed to keep dogs clean and fresh, and will host cats, kittens and small animals available for adoption through the Humane Society of West Michigan. The West Michigan-born pet supplies retailer will open another location at Knapps Crossing later in 2018. Greg and Tyson Keane opened the first Chow Hound Pet Supplies in Grand Rapids in 1989, and with the opening of the new Portage store will operate ten locations in Grand Rapids, Standale, Jenison, Wyoming, Holland, Grand Haven and Portage. Chow Hound Pet Supplies partners with humane societies, sanctuaries and other pet-related charities in the community. Find out more at www.chowhoundpet.com.
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Free Meet and Greet
fuzzbucketspetsitting.com Cats and Dogs - 10
www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • February 2018
dog in heal position. The next sign may send the dog over a jump and then come back to heal position. When I am performing each sign, I tell Odin to watch me and use a combination of verbal and hand cues to encourage what I want him to do next. I stay happy, bouncy and make it a game. He prances like a horse skipping for joy when it is time to practice. This has encouraged him to look to me for guidance in other situations. I never intended on competing in rally. I just By Jodi Jarvis -Therrian practiced it to assist with training, but Odin had so much “Play creates laughter, joy, and a feeling of inner peace. fun, I thought, ‘why not?’ We don’t compete a lot but I am proud to say my rescue dog has earned himself quite a lot It is almost impossible to stay stuck, angry or frustrated of blue ribbons and titles, when we do. when you are playing”~ Marriane St. Claire There are trials in most areas put on by UKC, AKC and more. Recently we have offered our students at Dog When training with dogs I believe it is important to Blessed LLC a fun course that we video record. We then keep it fun and positive. This will ensure you have a dog download it and give them a link so they can send it into who wants to please and trusts you because you have Cyber rally to be judged and earn become a team. If you choose to train titles cyber-ly. in a harsher manner, you may get This is a great opportunity results and have a dog who obeys, but without travel. It is also a great only because it fears you. Personally, opportunity for dogs who have fears I would rather have a bond based on and/or are reactive to compete in a mutual trust. non-stressful situation. I believe canine rally helps to Odin and I give rally a 4 paws up. promote this kind of bond. If you would like to see videos and Victoria Stillwell, dog trainer, more about rally, feel free to go to television presenter, and author Dog Blessed LLC’s Facebook. If you supports this sport and states, “Rally are in West Michigan and would like encourages human/canine verbal to attend a rally class, that we also communication, eye contact and combo with AKC trick classes, please teamwork.” contact Dog Blessed LLC. I have mentioned in previous Rally is just one of many fun articles that my dog, Odin, has some Odin and Jodi practicing rally. games available to play with your dog. fears that have caused him in the past Remember to find your inner child, be joyful and create a to over react when he is afraid. However, that being said, special bond when playing whatever game you chose. with bonding techniques and fun training he has learned to trust me to keep him safe and is much more at ease. He Keep connected on Facebook: Memory Stones by still has his fears but I know not to set him up for failure, Jodi, Furry Philosophy, Camp Kylee, Odin J.s Earthly and give him a safe retreat when he feels threatened. We Treasures, Dog Blessed LLC. Also furryphilosophy. have learned to redirect those fears in a way that allows blogspot.com. him to live a happy fulfilled life and still participate in fun events. One of his favorite fun sports is canine rally. I believe Memory Stones by Jodi practicing this is a huge factor in Odin learning to focus Honoring the memories of your loved ones on me, resulting in strengthening his trust. in a beautiful way. Rally helps to keep your dog focused on you when in Fur or ashes can be permanently fused in a stone that a distracting environment. A dog learns to stay in heal can be made into a sun catcher, keychain or jewelry. position on and/or off leash through a series of stations, that may consist of cones, jumps, sits, turns, and more. Rally is set up as a course of designated stations with the dog in heel position. The course consists of 10 to 20 signs that instruct you what to do. Unlike traditional obedience, handlers are allowed to encourage their dogs during the course, stay animated and have fun. The signs may have words, symbols or arrows on them instructing you what to do. A sign can vary from something as simple www.memorystonesbyjodi.com as a sit and stay while you walk around them, the next 231-893-1227 sign may tell you to weave in between the cones with your
Furry
Philosophy
February 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com
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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • February 2018
Jack the Therapy Cat By Janet Vormittag When Lynn Hopkins retired last year the first thing on her agenda was to get her cat, Jack, certified as a therapy pet. “He loves everybody and nothing fazes him,” she said. Those qualities made him a perfect candidate. Therapy animals are family pets whose owners take them to visit residents in assisted living residences, nursing homes, Alzheimer’s and hospice facilities, hospitals and any place else people would appreciate a visit from an animal. Hopkins, a volunteer at Crash’s Landing, adopted the longhaired cat nine years ago from the Grand Rapidsbased rescue. She has a heart for special-needs cats ––Jack was born with short front legs. “The trade off is he has turbo thrusters in the back,” Hopkins said with a laugh. Jack has no problem getting around; he just has an off-kilter gait. Jack was certified as a therapy pet by Love on a Leash. The non-profit, which was started in the 1980s in California, certifies dogs, cats and rabbits. Two years ago Amy Hansen started a local chapter, Western Michigan Love on a Leash. The group has seven therapy teams, but only two of them are with cats. One is Hopkins and Jack, and the other is Hansen and her cat Cricket. “There is a real need for more therapy pet kitties,” Hansen said. To become certified Jack had to have a temperament and medical evaluation by a veterinarian. He also had to be evaluated during ten hours of supervised visits at a participating facility. Jack had no problem passing all the requirements. Hopkins now takes him out three times a week to visit residents at a nursing home, an assisted living residence, and an Alzheimer’s facility. They also spend time with a hospice patient. Jack travels in style in a stroller similar to those used for children. “He’s a delight to people,” Hopkins said. “They get a kick out of his stroller.” When taken out of his rolling ride, Jack is happy to curl on resident’s laps while they pet, cuddle and talk to him. “He’s very calm when he’s on someone’s lap. He’s very soothing for some of the agitated patients,” Hopkins said, adding it makes her feel good to see how happy Jack makes people. After about an hour of attention, Jack is done socializing. “He’ll jump in his stroller when he’s ready to go home,” she said. Hopkins has also taken Jack to Calvin College during exam week. The school has de-stressor events for February 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com
Top: Lynn Hopkins and her therapy cat, Jack. Bottom: Jack snuggling on a lap.
students including hanging out with therapy pets. She said some students are thrilled to see a cat. “I love sharing him. He’s such a special boy.” For more information visit www.loveonaleash.org. West Michigan Love on a Leash, chapter leader Amy Hansen, riversmyhome@gmail.com, 616-754-2565 or www. facebook.com/WMILOAL/. Cats and Dogs -13
This Reuben’s Room page is sponsored by Sleepy Hollow Pet Cemetery.
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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • February 2018
Cat Corner
Call for an Appointment
Cats in High Places
231-366-7067
By Michele J. Dunckel Cats love being above it all so they can see prey or enemy at a distance. It’s instinct. Which was great when they had to protect themselves from predators or catch their own dinner. Not so much when they live in your house. Many cat owners struggle with trying to keep their cats off counters and other furniture where pet hair and dander aren’t welcome. In researching this dilemma, I’ve found many opinions and purchasing options. I can’t say I recommend or don’t recommend them, because I’ve never used them. And, like people, what works for one cat might not work for another. So here are the things that work for me: Don’t give your pet a reason to jump up there. Cats’ olfactory capabilities are far beyond our own. They’ll be tempted to investigate the faintest smell that includes catnip, their regular treats, meat, fish, cheese, milk and butter. I even had a cat who loved cantaloupe and would have gone for it had it been sitting out. I have one cat who loves the greenery in any floral arrangement so I keep flowers and fresh herbs out of reach as well. Wipe off all surfaces, including stove, meticulously and use bleach. Not only does bleach kill the germs that cause the odor, it’s a deterrent because cats hate bleach. Is the kitchen/dining room window the only place your cat can see outside? If it is, get them a window perch or kitty condo in another room where they can watch the world go by and sprinkle generously with catnip or treats. Hang a birdfeeder or squirrel feeder outside that window for added incentive to stay there. If kitty still isn’t convinced, fill a spray bottle with water and spray just a little in her direction accompanied by a strong, forceful “no.” It’s very important that you do this consistently. Then leave the squirt bottle on the area where she insists on jumping. While I can’t attest to my cats’ behavior when I’m not home, they don’t dare jump up while I’m there and I’ve no evidence they do it in my absence. Never punish your cat by physically hitting, slapping or throwing them off places where you don’t want them. Other ideas: Google Sensor Egg Cat Deterrent and Sticky Paws. Humane Society Suggestions: https://www. animalhumanesociety.org/keeping-your-cat-counter. Good Luck! After 50 years of personal cat rescue and twelve years of owning a one-of-a-kind cat hotel, Michele Dunckel retired and relocated to Boston. Her passion for cats continues as she volunteers with local animal rescue groups. Reach her at micheledunckel@gmail.com. February 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com
West Michigan Spay & Neuter Clinic (a 501c3 non-profit organization that accepts donations)
A low-cost spay/neuter clinic. 6130 Airline Road Fruitport, MI 49415 www.wmspayandneuter.org info@wmspayandneuter.org
In-Home Pet Care When You Can’t Be There THE CAT’S MEOW Pet Sitters Jeanine Buckner Veterinary Assistant
616-791-9696
Loving Home Care For Your Pet During my 18 years of working in veterinary medicine, I realized the need for an alternative to boarding. Thus, The Cat’s Meow Pet Sitters was created. By keeping your feline friend in her familiar home surroundings, you and your cat experience less stress while you are away. My first home visit with you and your cat is at no charge. Information regarding medical care, instructions on feeding and watering, litter box patrol and playing with and/or grooming your cat will all be discussed. At no additional charge, bringing in mail and/or newspapers and watering plants can also be done. Pampering your cat in her/his own home is a wise alternative to boarding. Your cat will thank you! Jeanine Buckner, Owner Cats and Dogs -15
Calendar Pet Adoptions, Fund-raisers, Special Events Adoption Events Wednesdays – 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays – 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Cat and kitten adoptions at Carol’s Ferals and Friendlies, 4600 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids. (Brooknelle Pet Resort) Saturdays and Sundays – Noon to 5 p.m. Heaven Can Wait Animal Haven cat and kitten adoptions at PetCo, 5239 Harvey St., Muskegon. 231-737-5644. Saturdays – 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Barry County Animal Shelter Cat Adoptions at ACE Hardware, 111 E Main St., Hastings. Sundays – Noon to 2 p.m. and Thursdays – 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. or by appointment, 826-0927. Cat and kitten adoptions at Focus on Ferals, 7962 Clyde Park, Byron Center. Feb. 3 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at Chow Hound, 628 N Beacon Blvd., Grand Haven. Feb. 3, 10, 17 & 24 – Noon to 2 p.m. Hearts of Hope Dog Rescue Meet and Greet at PetSmart, 4645 Canal Ave. SW, Grandville. Feb. 3 & 17 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Humane Society and Animal Rescue of Muskegon County Adoption Event at PetSmart, 1720 E. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon. Feb. 3 & 17 – Noon to 3 p.m. Lake Haven Rescue Adoption Days when we bring available dogs to Pet Supplies Plus, 4920 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville. In addition, Lake Haven does daily adoptions of declawed/altered cats and kittens at the Grandville Pet Supplies Plus and our other locations as follows: Pet Supplies Plus, 3593 Alpine Ave. NW, Grand Rapids; Chow Hound, 7485 Cottonwood Dr., Jenison; Chicago Drive Vet Clinic, 6418 Industrial Dr., Jenison. www.lakehavenrescue.org. Feb. 4 – 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Crash’s Landing Meet & Greet Open Adoption Hours, 1545 Diamond NE, Grand Rapids. For more information; adoptions@crashslanding.org. Feb. 4 & 18 – 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at PetCo, 5239 Harvey St., Muskegon. Feb. 10 – Noon to 3 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at Pet Supplies Plus, 2500 E Beltline SE, Grand Rapids. Feb. 10 – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Harbor Humane Society Adoption Event at Chow Hound, 660 Chicago Dr., Holland. Feb. 10 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Humane Society and Animal Rescue of Muskegon County Adoption Event at Chow Hound, 628 North Beacon Blvd., Grand Haven. Feb. 11 & 25 – 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at Tractor Supply Co, 6435 Airline Hwy, Fruitport. Feb. 17 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at Tractor Supply Co, 1550 Whitehall Road, North Muskegon.
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Feb. 17 – Noon to 3 p.m. Harbor Humane Society Adoption Event at Chow Hound, 628 N Beacon Blvd., Grand Haven. Feb. 18 – 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Crash’s Landing Meet & Greet Open Adoption Hours, 1545 Diamond NE, Grand Rapids. For more information; adoptions@crashslanding.org. Feb. 24 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at Agard’s, 150 Ottawa St, Muskegon. Feb. 24 – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Harbor Humane Society Adoption Event at JB and ME, 36 W 8th St., Holland.
Fund-raisers and Special Events Second Tuesday of every month – 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. West Michigan Pet Loss Support Group at Heaven at Home’s offices, 1530 Monroe NW, Grand Rapids. Facilitated by Ginny Mikita. All are welcome. Please bring a photo of the companion animal(s) you have lost or are losing. RSVP at 616-460-0373 by noon the day of the meeting. Thursdays – 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) training session at Carol’s Ferals and Friendlies, 4600 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids. (Brooknelle Pet Resort). Check web site for details: carolsferals.org. Feb. 10 – 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Paws & Pints, a fundraiser for Bellwether Harbor, at Ridge Cider, 351 W 136th St., Grant. Bring your dog, socialize, drink hard cider or soft drinks and help raise money to support dogs and cats waiting for a forever home. Feb. 10 – 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Microchip Clinic at Bellwether Harbor, 7645 West 48th St., Fremont. The $30 fee includes registration. The majority of the proceeds support shelter operations. Tell family and friends with pets to have them microchipped! 231-924-9230 or www.bellwetherharbor.org. Feb. 11 – Crash’s Landing Volunteer Tour, 1545 Diamond NE, Grand Rapids. Tour our shelter, meet the kitties and find out how you can help. RSVP to volunteers@crashslanding.org. Feb. 22 – 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Eat at Pieology Pizzeria, 2006 E Beltline Ave., Grand Rapids and 20% of your purchase will be donated to Carol’s Ferals. Feb. 24 – Noon to 3 p.m. Harbor Humane Society Open House for their new BISSELL Community and Training Room, 14345 Bagley Street (at US 31), West Olive.
MC P K O T If you have events you’d like listed in the Calendar, please e-mail catsanddogsmagazine@comcast.net.
MC P K O T www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • February 2018
February 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com
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Lost Paws By Janet Vormittag When Lyndsey Sturgeon attended a seminar on how to increase the return-to-owner rate for cats she had no idea the class would change the course of her career. Sturgeon, a dog trainer and animal behaviorist, worked at the Humane Society of West Michigan when she went to a conference in the spring of 2014, which was hosted by the Humane Society of the United States. Kat Albrecht, who led the cat seminar, mentioned she trained her search dog to help recover lost pets. “I was excited about that concept.” Sturgeon recalled. “I wanted to learn more and bring it to West Michigan.” Albrecht was a former police bloodhound handler, crime scene investigator, search-and-rescue manager, and police-officer-turned-investigative pet detective. Since 1997, Albrecht has solved lost pet investigations by using law enforcement-based techniques and strategies that are normally used to solve lost person investigations. Albrecht developed Missing Animal Response, which is a professional training program. Sturgeon signed up for the eight-month online course and completed it in 2014. She started her own pet recovery business, Lost Paws LLC, in 2015. “It’s exciting and terrifying,” she said. The terrifying part comes from the investment she made in equipment. She has live traps, spotlights, a night vision monocle, heat sensitive cameras, live trail cams, snares and more. She’s also in the process of training a dog to sniff out displaced cats and dogs. Sturgeon is available for hire and phone consultations. She also rents out equipment. She has worked in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin. While growing her business, Sturgeon continues to work part-time at the local humane society as the canine enrichment coordinator. One of Sturgeon’s most memorable cases was that of Flower, a beagle who had missing for five days in Comstock Park. Flower’s elderly owner had looked everywhere for the lost dog except in the deep ravine near his home––he physically couldn’t climb down the steep bank. Sturgeon and a volunteer made their way into the ravine, all the while calling for Flower. In the bottom of the ravine there was a fast running creek. They made their way along the water, continuing to call for Flower. It wasn’t long before they heard her. “It was a bark that alerted me something was off,” Sturgeon said. They kept calling and continued making their way toward the barks. “When she saw me she howled,” Sturgeon said. Flower was in the stream. Her front paws were on Cats and Dogs - 18
Lyndsey Sturgeon, the founder of Lost Paws LLC, a business that helps find lost pets.
a rock, but her back feet were in the water. Sturgeon guessed Flower had been swept downstream by the high water and was too terrified to leave the safety of the rock. Flower was less than 200 yards from her home, but Sturgeon doubts if the exhausted dog would have gotten out of the predicament on her own. Sturgeon said not all lost dogs vocalize when they are in trouble. Some go into a panic mode and run from people, even their owners. She has helped live-trap dogs who have been running loose for months. She has a special camera when trying to trap a wayward pet. It sends a message to her phone when it picks up movement or the trap is tripped. It’s especially important to monitor a trap in the winter––animals shouldn’t be left in a trap when it’s cold. Sturgeon said each case is different and requires a specific course of action. There are even times when offering a reward isn’t the best option. “If it’s a high-value dog you’ll want to offer a reward. If it’s a fearful dog that won’t approach people, don’t offer a reward—you don’t want people chasing it,” she explained. Techniques for finding cats differ if they are inside or outside pets. “Cats go into shutdown mode and are quiet,” she said. An inside cat who accidentally got out will most likely be close by but in hiding. Sturgeon said frequently pets go missing when they’re in a new situation such as new home, being taken care of by a pet sitter or when a maintenance person is in the home. “Contain your pet when anyone comes to do work at your home,” she recommended. Sturgeon has helped recover close to 100 pets and has a success rate of 87 percent. “There’s never a dull moment,” she said. For more information visit www.lostpawsllc.com or call 616-745-2478. www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • February 2018
Roscoe By Janet Vormittag Dead or alive, Kendra Higgins wanted her dog back, so she was doing everything in her power to make it happen. “I feel like I’m mourning a black void,” she said. The only lead in the first week after Roscoe went missing was a call from a man who saw a dead dog on the side of the road. By the time Higgins got to the spot, a snowplow had gone through. She had to dig. “He had a tail, it wasn’t him,” she said after describing the emotions of digging out a dog encased in snow that had similar brown fur to her missing Australian shepherd. Roscoe had a cropped tail, about two inches long. Roscoe went missing on New Year’s Eve. The Higgins, Kendra and her husband, were having a quiet evening at home. The couple live in Bloomingdale, which is midway between South Haven and Kalamazoo. It’s a four-corner town with a gas station, small grocery and post office. Around 7:30 Roscoe wanted a potty break. As they’d done countless times before, they opened the door and Roscoe darted outside. It was not unusual for the oneyear-old dog to stay out for up to 20 minutes. He loved snow. He always scratched at the door when he wanted back in. As a farm dog, Roscoe was used to running loose. The Higgins have an eight-acre farm, Henstooth Homestead, with chickens, a garden and blueberry patch. At some point, the Higgins realized Roscoe had been gone a long time, so they opened the door and called his name. When he didn’t return, they bundled up, got flashlights and went out to search for him. Because of fresh snow, they looked for tracks. The tracks ended at the driveway. “We think someone picked him up with good intentions because it was cold,” Higgins said. Roscoe wasn’t micro-chipped, plus he wasn’t wearing his collar when he disappeared. Higgins said Roscoe always barked when a car pulled in the driveway, but they didn’t hear any barking that night. “He loved car rides––he’d bark, but open the door and he’d jump in,” she said. When Roscoe wasn’t home the next day they made flyers and talked to neighbors. It was New Year’s Day so shelters were closed. The next day Higgins contacted shelters in Kalamazoo, Van Buren and Allegan counties. Higgins’ first post on Facebook about Roscoe going missing was shared 4,000 times. “The circulation was incredible,” she said. She joined several online groups for lost and found pets. “The support from the animal community is great,” she said. “It truly means a lot.” She contacted Lost Paws, a business that specializes February 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com
Roscoe, protector, chicken herder and loyal companion.
in finding lost pets, to see if there was anything else she should be doing. Lyndsey Sturgeon of Lost Paws suggested bright posters with the word REWARD. Higgins followed the suggestion. Higgins described Roscoe as a high-maintenance dog. He’s playful, smart and protective. He’s an excellent tracker and she doubts he would get lost. “He’s part of our family. He’s well loved. We miss him and hope he’ll show up.” Unfortunately, a few days later Roscoe was found along the side of the road not far from home. His location left Higgins with questions. “There were no tracks leading in that direction, and we drove past that spot a hundred times and never saw him until the day we found him.” Higgins posted online that Roscoe was found and laid to rest. She thought with all the support it was only fair everyone got closure. She said in today’s world it was hard to believe there were still good people doing good things. There was close to 6,000 shares on Roscoe’s missing posts, all from complete strangers. Not only did these people spread the news, they offered advice or words of comfort. “What I didn’t expect was the outpour of calls, texts, and messages of sympathy. It just goes to show that “animal” people are the best kind of people. Grieving is an interesting place to be when you’re overwhelmed by so much gratitude.” Higgins said she believes in the phrase, “you die twice, once when you stop breathing, and a second time when your name isn’t spoken anymore.” So this spring the Higgins plan to dedicate their greenhouse in Roscoe’s name to recognize his integral role at the Henstooth Homestead as protector, chicken herder and loyal companion. His memory will live on. Cats and Dogs - 19
Life with Willow The Language of Love By Tricia L. McDonald Since Willow joined our family, I find my language has changed. I repeat myself often and I am using more one syllable words. “Off” – used when Willow is jumping on: ♥ me and/or guests ♥ Millie (our cat) ♥ the cupboards ♥ Tina (my sister’s dog) ♥ the windowsills ♥ the mailman or the UPS guy ♥ me again (sitting at the dinner table) ♥ Socks (our 20-year-old cat) ♥ my sister ♥ my computer ♥ Eli…you get the idea. Willow’s response: “I’ll just wait a few seconds and do it again.” “Leave it” – used when she grabs, or is thinking about grabbing: ♥ my slippers (when they’re on my feet and off) ♥ Millie the cat ♥ the only dog bed that hasn’t been destroyed yet ♥ rugs ♥ rolls of toilet paper ♥ brown snow (ugh) ♥ my sweatpants (while I’m wearing them). Willow’s response: “No.” “Here” – used when: ♥ she is walking away ♥ I’m trying to get her to come to me ♥ I’m trying to take something away from her. Willow’s response: “I can’t hear you.” “Stay” – used when: ♥ I need her to just stay in one spot. Willow’s response: “Yeah, right.” “Quiet” – used when she is barking at ♥ Tina, Millie, Eli, Socks, Mike or my sister ♥ her own reflection in the fireplace glass or the window ♥ the snow falling ♥ me telling her to “quiet” ♥ the doorbell ringing ♥ the wind ♥ nothing. Willow’s response: “Bark, bark, bark, bark, bark.” “Get down” – used when she is on the: ♥ back of the recliner ♥ back of the couch ♥ the bay window sill ♥ toilet seat. Cats and Dogs - 20
Willow’s response: “You’re not the boss of me.” “Drop” – used when: ♥ she has a roll of toilet paper in her mouth ♥ the “leave it” command isn’t working. Willow’s response: “No.” “Uh ah” or “No” – these words are used: ♥ interchangeably ♥ about 10,453 times per day ♥ when the other words aren’t working – which is most of the time ♥ over and over and over. Willow’s response: “Quit bugging me.” “%&$#?@!” – I try not to use these words, honest. However there have been moments when Miss Willow has pushed me beyond the ability to form real words. Most of the time this happens when she does all of the above things at the same time. Yes, it is possible. Willow’s response: “Bark, bark, bark, bark, bark.” I guess it is time to make that call to the dog guy and ask him for one-on-one help with training. After that, we can work on Willow.
You can purchase Life With Sally: Little White Dog Tails, Still Spinnin’ Tails, Waggin’ More Tails and Princess Tails in Grand Haven at Must Love Dogs and The Bookman; in Grand Rapids at Schulers Books. You can order books at splatteredinkpress. com or amazon.com. The cost is $13.95. The books are also available on Kindle and Nook for $5.99.
www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • February 2018
Community Resource Guide Cemeteries Clock Timeless Pets 1469 Peck St., Muskegon, MI 49441 231-722-3721 - www.clocktimelesspets.com Noah’s Pet Cemetery & Crematory 2727 Orange Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-949-1390 – noahspc@comcast.net www.noahspetcemetery.com
Family Pet Lodge Cageless cat and dog boarding, near the G.R. Ford Airport www.familypetlodge.com 616-446-7013 – familypetlodge@yahoo.com Fuzz Buckets Pet Sitting In-home pet sitting, dog walking and training Serving the Greater Grand Rapids area 616-334-8438 – fuzzbucketspetsitting@gmail.com www.fuzzbucketspetsitting.com
Oak Haven Pet Crematorium & Cemetery 10950 Northland Dr., Rockford, MI 49341 www.oakhavenpc.2295 – 616-866-2295
Pet Villa – Lodging, Daycare, Grooming 3934 3 Mile Road NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-735-3191 – pvpetvilla@gmail.com www.thepetvilla.com
Sleepy Hollow Pet Cemetery 2755 64th St. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315 616-538-6050 – www.sleepyhollowpc.com info@sleepyhollowpc.com
The Cat’s Meow Loving Home Care For Your Cat Jeanine Buckner, veterinary assistant - 616-481-6878
Dog Walkers Walk MI Dog Peter Bouchard, Top Dog 234 Glenview Court NE, Rockford, MI 616-953-6459 – topdog@walkmidog.com www.walkmidog.com
Humane Societies/Shelters Allegan County Animal Shelter 2293 33rd Street, Allegan, MI 49010 269-686-5112 - www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI299.html Harbor Humane Society 14345 Bagley Street (at US 31), West Olive, MI 49460 616-399-2119 - www.harborhumane.org Humane Society of West Michigan 3077 Wilson Drive NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-453-8900 - www.hswestmi.org Ionia County Animal Shelter 3853 Sparrow Drive, Ionia, MI 48846 616-527-9040 - www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI342.html
Pet In-Home Hospice Heaven at Home Pet Hospice Dr. Lauie Brush, DVM 616-498-1316 – www.pethospicevet.com
Pet Training Dog Blessed LLC – Certified Dog Trainer Through CCPDT Classes in Whitehall and Shelby or private in-home training. AKC STAR Puppy, CGC & Trick Testing, Dog Sports, Reactivity dogblessedllc@gmail.com – 616-430-0297 www.dogblessedllc.com – www.facebook.com/dogblessedllc/ Wolf Song Enterprises, LLC Animal behavior consulting, Animal training, Animal talent 1657 S. Getty, Suite 28, Muskegon, MI 49442 Wolfsongenterprises@gmail.com – 231-744-7141
Rescue Groups A Feral Haven -- Advocating for feral cats in Ottawa County www.aferalhavenmi.org – 616-399-1774 a.feral.haven.mi@gmail.com A New Start on Life – Specializing in puppy mill dogs www.anewstartonlife.com - 1-866-716-9393
Kent County Animal Shelter 740 Fuller Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-632-7300 - www.accesskent.com/kcas
Allies for Greyhounds of West Michigan, Inc. 866-929-DOGS - http://www.afgwm.org
Montcalm County Animal Shelter 155 Quarterline St, Stanton, MI 48888 989-831-7355 - www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI669.html
Australian Shepherd Rescue in Michigan www.arim.org
Estate Planning (including pets) The West Michigan Estate Planning Center 6739 E Fulton, Suite A-10, Ada, MI 49301 www.michiganpettrust.com 616-682-5574 – info@cottrelljacobs.com
Pet Boarding/Sitters Canine Country Club In-home pet sitting and dog walking 231-755-3230
February 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com
Basenji Rescue and Transport (BRAT) www.basenjirescue.org - toatbasenjis@yahoo.com Basset Hound Rescue of Michigan 501 (c) (3) 616-291-1357 - www.bhrom.org Bellowood All breed canine rescue. Cedar Springs, Michigan www.bellowoodrescue.com – 616-696-2846 Bellwether Harbor P.O. Box 475, 7645 West 48th St., Fremont, MI 49412 231-924-9230 - www.bellwetherharbor.org
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BestPals Animal Rescue Center 13888 Blair St., Holland, MI 49424 Call for appointment, 616-212-3368 www.bestpalsarc.wix.com – bestpalsarc@gmail.com Cannonsville Critters – Helping cats in Montcalm County Michelle Hocking, 989-287-2553 Carol’s Ferals –Trap-Neuter-Return and Adoption 616-560-0555 – www.carolsferals.org Cat Tales Rescue Muskegon, 1-231-798-1033 Crash’s Landing - Cat Rescue & Placement Center No-kill, Non-profit 501(c) organization 616-821-6065 - www.crashslanding.org Faithful to Felines - Cat rescue in Muskegon County www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI75.html – misscat5@charter.net Family Paws Rescue Non-profit 501c3 – Grand Rapids 616-322-4031 – www.familypawsrescue.com Focus on Ferals - Trap-Neuter-Return 616-826-0927 - www.focusonferals.org Forever Pets – Helping Homeless Pets Find Forever Homes 231-225-1184 – www.forever-pets.petfinder.com Golden Years Alaskan Malamute Rescue Shirley Thomas, 231-766-2170 - malamute49445@yahoo.com www.goldenyearsamr.org
Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary - a no-kill dog sanctuary www.mackenzies.info - 616-693-2490 Michele’s Rescue www.michelesrescue.com - info@michelesrescue.com Muskegon Humane Society - a no kill, non-profit shelter 2640 Marquette Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442 231-773-8689 - www.muskegonhumanesociety.org Noah Project - a no-kill, non-profit animal shelter 5205 Airline Road, Muskegon, MI 49444 www.noahproject.petfinder.com - 231-865-1264 Pet Tales Rescue Kentwood, MI – www.pettalesrescue.com Pound Buddies Animal Shelter & Adoption Center 1300 East Keating Ave., Muskegon, MI 231-724-6500 - www.poundbuddies.org Reuben’s Room Cat Rescue - Jeanine Buckner A no-kill, non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization 616-481-6878 - www.reubensroom.petfinder.com Safe Haven Humane Society P.O. Box 55, Ionia, MI 48846 – Fax: 517-579-5948 616-522-1611 – shhspets@hotmail.com – www.shhspets.com Saving Argo Dog Rescue 501 (c) (3) organization – 616-318-7373 www.savingargo.com – savingargorescue@gmail.com The Long Dog Retreat Dachshund Rescue 501 (c) (3) organization in SW Michigan www.thelongdogretreat.org – 757-647-5146
Grand River Rover Rescue Portland, MI – 517-526-3621 – grrrescue@yahoo.com www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI706.html
TLC Chow Rescue 616-738-0438 - www.tlcchowrescue.com
G.R.A.C.E. Greyhound Retirement, Adoption, Care, and Education - www.houndsofgrace.org
Vicky’s Pet Connection www.vickyspetconnection.com
Great Lakes Golden Retriever Rescue 616-336-1707 – www.greatlakesgoldens.org
Voice of Animals Rescue www.voiceofanimals.petfinder.org
Great Lakes Weimaraner Rescue www.greatlakesweimrescue.com - 1-877-SAV-A-WEIM
West Michigan Critter Haven – small animal rescue www.wmicritterhaven.org - info@wmicritterhaven.org
Headin’ Home Pet Rescue, Inc. www.headinhomerescue.org - 616-886-1474
West Michigan Ferret Connection Education - Boarding - Adoptions - Rescue Dee Gage, 616-447-2978 - wmfc2001@sbcglobal.net
Hearts of Hope Dog Rescue 616-366-8455 - rescueofhope@gmail.com www.rescueofhope.com Heaven Can Wait Animal Haven Feline adoptions – 231-737-5644 Keeper Kitties Rescue 313-400-5949 – keeperkitties@gmail.com – kkrescue.org Keeshond Rescue Central States www.petfinder.com/shelters/IL119.html – 847-922-2240 Lake Haven - Non-profit rescue for cats and dogs www.lakehavenrescue.org LuvnPupz - Rescue - Rehabilitate - Rehome www.luvnpupz.org – luvnpupz@luvnpupz.org
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Westie Rescue Michigan 248-879-2479 - bew1234@sbcglobal.net - www.westierescue-mi.com Wishbone Pet Rescue Alliance P.O. Box 124, Douglas, MI 49406 (800) 475-0776 - www.wishbonepetrescue.org Wild Dog Rescue 2525 Blue Star Highway, Fennville, MI 49408 wilddogonline@gmail.com - www.mosseyhollow.com
Spay/Neuter West Michigan Spay and Neuter Clinic 6130 Airline Road, Fruitport, MI 49415 www.wmspayandneuter.org – 231-366-7067
www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • February 2018
Specialty Businesses Critter Cottage - Adoption/outreach for Vicky’s Pet Connection 7205 Thornapple River Drive SE, Ada, MI 616-682-4855 - www.vickyspetconnection.org
Wildlife Wildlife Rehab Center 1504 Union Ave. NE, Grand Rapids 616-361-6109 – www.wildlife-rehab-center.org
Wishbone House – Thrift shop and Pet Adoptions 165 Blue Star Highway, Douglas, MI 269-455-5247 – www.wishbonepetrescue.org
to see if your hedgie likes them. If they do, veggies are a great addition in small quantities. West Michigan Critter Haven Hedgehogs are nocturnal animals; they sleep all day and party all night. They are also solitary critters that Saving lives and educating spend their waking hours jogging their native prairies the community in search of delicious food. Keeping these facts in mind, hedgehogs maintain a healthy weight through foraging a raw unprocessed diet while running a marathon. This Hedgehogs as Pets is why domesticated hedgehogs struggle with weight Should you take the prickly plunge? management. At the bare minimum, a hedgehog should be housed in a cage no smaller than four square feet. By Alexis Fowler Bigger is always better. Hedgies can also run on a large Foster and Educator at West Michigan Critter Haven exercise wheel, but the angle their backs are extended in the wheel causes spinal damage. Saucer wheels are a I wonder what it would be like to own a hedgehog? significantly better alternative to the wheel; however, free This is a question most animal lovers have likely asked in the past year. While they’ve become quite trendy roaming the house is the gold standard for a hedgehog’s physical and mental health. over the years, hedgehogs are not Hedgies require medical and the snuggle buddies a dog or cat hygienic upkeep like nail trims just might be. They are wild animals who like any other mammal. They also require an owner who understands need a weekly foot bath to clean their needs. off excess feces they’ve stepped in Common pet hedgehogs are during their exercise time. African Pygmy Hedgehogs, native Be sure to take your hedgie from Senegal to Somalia. They are to an experienced exotic pet vet. usually born in a litter of three to Sadly, the cost of medical care for five hoglets. Hedgies generally live hedgehogs and other exotic pets to be three to five years old. A group is often an afterthought for new of hedgehogs is called an array. Of owners. An exotic pet vet will have course, a pet hedgehog doesn’t care proper education and training, along what you call them, as long as you with equipment, to handle hedgehog know how to care for them. medical needs. These qualifications Hedgehogs are insectivores. Minnie, an adoptable hedgehog. often result in higher costs than a This means their native diet consists cat or dog vet visit. of bugs. Of course, in the wild, The joy of a hedgehog is found in an admiration for they will consume an array (pun intended) of other their nature. Just like there is something charming about edibles. The internet is teaming with advice on what to a grumpy old man, one can’t help but feel warm and feed hedgehogs. Cat food, commercial hedgehog food, fuzzy for a hedgehog’s spines. Before adopting any pet, eggs, chicken, dead bugs, and live bugs are all given a responsible pet owner will need to do their homework. as acceptable ways to nourish them. As convenient as Budgets need to be considered, along with space and time cat food sounds, it is to hedgehogs what McDonald’s availability, in order to provide the best life for your pets. is to people. It’s delicious and easy, but it can result in You also have to be comfortable in caring for your pet. unhealthy weight gain. If icky foot baths and live bugs sound like a blast, maybe In the wild, hedgehogs eat insects. This means that you should take the prickly plunge. your domestic hedgehog should follow suit. Live insects are ideal. Crickets, mealworms, and wax worms are all Email info@wmicritterhaven.org if you have easily accessible live feed. These can be found online, questions about adoption, care and exotic vets in your such as grubco.com, or at local pet stores, like Pet area. Supplies Plus or V.I.Pets. You can also test out veggies February 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com
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