SPRING 2017
CCP Chester COUNTY PET The Source for Pet and Animal Information in Chester County, PA
LCP
The Source for Pet and Animal Information in Lancaster County, PA
The Source for Pet and Animal Information in Lancaster County, PA
LANCASTER COUNTY PET
Rabbit Hopping
+ LaMancha Animal Rescue + Canine Partners for Life
+ CONTENTS
20
SPRING 2017
Rescue Highlight
FEATURES
8 Rabbit Hopping Spring is in the air - and so are rabbits! Explore how athletic your bunny may be and learn about the fascinating sport of rabbit hopping. BY SAMANTHA ST.CLAIR
14 Canine Partners for Life Discover the many ways dogs improve people’s lives through Canine Partners for Life’s programs.
DEPARTMENTS 3
Letter From Editor Pets Shape Our Lives
4
Tips Quick facts about animals, including Penn Vet’s New Bolton Center and dog meetups
7
Events Local events from March-May, 2017
13
The Good Stuff Our favorite products from around Chester
16
Seasonal Spring pet tips and facts
17
Meet the Breed A dedicated work horse, the Norwegian Fjord
18
Community Interview with Colleen Sedgwick, owner of Pet Nanny
19
Ask the Expert Tick advice from the professionals at Mosquito Squad
20
Rescue Highlight LaMancha Animal Rescue
14
Canine Partners for Life
22
Pet Services Information on various local businesses
23
Pets for Adoption Photos of Chester County pets
24
Information Pet Resources and contact information SPRING 2017
1
CCP
The Source for Pet and Animal Information in CHESTER County, PA
Chester COUNTY PET The Source for Pet and Animal Information in CHESTER County, PA
Publisher Cecilia Cove, LLC
LCP Editor in Chief Samantha St.Clair Art Director Sally Heineman
LANCASTERSales COUNTY PET Helen Venesky Photographer Samantha St.Clair Contributors Doug Weber Published by Cecilia Cove, LLC PO Box 44, Marietta, PA 17547 717.406.7811 • chestercountypet.com
+ Advertising inquiries email: 717.406.7811 • sales@chestercountypet.com
+ Comments and Feedback: editor@chestercountypet.com
Adoptions available at LaMANCHA ANIMAL RESCUE PO Box 656, Unionville, PA 610.384.7976 lamanchaanimalrescue.org CCP (Chester County Pet) is published quarterly and distributed throughout Chester County, PA. All content of this magazine, including design, photos and editorial content is Copyright©2017 by Cecilia Cove, LLC. All rights reserved. No reproduction of printed materials is permitted without the written consent of the Publisher. CCP is a registered trademark of Cecilia Cove, LLC.
2 CHESTER COUNTY PET
+ E D I TO R’S L ET T E R
PETS SHAPE OUR LIVES LIKE MANY OF YOU, I HAVE OWNED A VARIETY OF PETS. While you may have had many animals enter your life, have you ever thought about how they have forever changed who you are? Each of my pets gave shape to my personality, dreams, and enjoyments in life. They taught me a lot about many things - love, happiness, and yes, even hardships. They taught me to be strong, compassionate, and understanding. Thanks to my childhood pets, I developed a passion for animals. While I will say my dogs had the biggest impact on who I am, my pets ranging from rabbits to fish have also played their roles. It is truly amazing how each animal we come in contact with alters us in little and big ways. I want to dedicate this edition to my most recent loss, my family’s beautiful English Springer Spaniel, Emma. She was a brilliantly stubborn girl. She wouldn’t do a single trick without ensuring there was a treat involved and had “selective hearing” her entire life. No one could really tell Emma to do much of anything; she was a very independent soul. Along with incredible patience, she taught me to be confident in myself. She was my gateway into the world of canine sports when we began participating in flyball, and she was the one that convinced me I really could train dogs effectively when I trained her to run agility by myself. While Emma is no longer with us, these pieces of my character will never change, and I thank her for that. In this edition of Chester County Pet, we present many animals that have shaped the lives around them. Our main feature involves rabbits who have turned their owners into “rabbit hopping” enthusiasts. Additionally, we highlight a beautiful Norwegian Fjord, a horse who has inevitably changed the lives of hundreds of children through his therapy work. I can only imagine the lessons he has taught them about themselves. Then, we have our rescue highlight with LaMancha Animal Rescue, where every year hundreds of animals impact the lives of those who participate in the rescue’s efforts. In Emma’s memory, I would like for you to start thinking about how animals have shaped your life. Who made you start to smile at all the little things? Who taught you to speak with kindness and understanding? Who took you on incredible journeys that opened your mind to the beauty of the world? Every animal that passes through our lives transforms who we are and it’s up to us to listen to them and find ways to improve ourselves through their lessons.
Samantha St.Clair editor@chestercountypet.com
Throughout our magazine you’ll find informative bubbles.
HELPFUL TIP
IN PENNSYLVANIA, IT’S ILLEGAL TO HAVE A HEDGEHOG AS A PET.
SPRING 2017
3
+ TIPS
Do cats need to have a license in PA?
TipS to Tails Quick Facts About Pets
PENN VET’S NEW BOLTON CENTER: Bred for Excellence At Penn Vet’s New Bolton Center, we have a rich history of clinical excellence distinguished by exceptional science that has made us the equine world’s veterinary leader. Our campus is located on 700 beautiful, rolling acres in Chester County, with the facilities and expertise to manage one of the largest caseloads of any academic large animal hospital in the nation. We provide both inpatient and outpatient services and accommodate thousands of patient visits each year. Our services range from primary care through the most complicated and sophisticated medical and surgical techniques. We are proud to be the first veterinary teaching hospital in the world using a revolutionary robotics-controlled imaging system for use in the standing patient. In addition, our Field Service veterinarians care for equine and bovine patients within a 30-mile radius of the hospital, offering preventative health care, reproductive services, on-farm diagnostic services, and evaluation and treatment of many medical disorders, including lameness. Providing the best comprehensive veterinary treatment and care for horses, cattle, and other large animals requires the right combination of knowledge, experience, and compassion. Our board-certified specialists are committed to providing exceptional service with the interest of both patient and owner in mind.
To learn more, visit NewBoltonCenter.vet.upenn.edu.
4 CHESTER COUNTY PET
Unlike dogs, cats do not have to be licensed. However, if you allow your cat outdoors, they should be wearing an ID collar or tag that displays your name, address, and phone number. What your cat does need is proof of a current rabies vaccine, as they are required by PA state law starting at 3 months of age.
A Few Reasons to Foster M By placing a rescued animal into a fostering situation, they are provided an atmosphere with fewer animals, which means less health issues such as kennel cough and anxiety disorders. House training and socialization also make an animal more easily adoptable. M Fostering helps overcrowded shelters. It truly takes a village to provide these animals with love and care. M For “special needs” rescues, fostering offers a smaller, more personable experience and smoother transition. M Providing a foster home can be extremely fulfilling in that you make a difference in the life of the animal and receive unmatched love in return. Being part of this process also improves the overall quality of domestic animals’ wellbeing within one’s community. Information courtesy of Barbara McMillan
Horse-Shoe Trail Developed for equestrian and pedestrian use, the Horse-Shoe Trail is a 140-mile (230 km) trail that runs from the western edge of the Valley Forge National Historical Park toward Harrisburg. It ends at the Appalachian Trail located about 15 miles (24 km) northeast of Harrisburg.
Start a Meetup Group in your hometown!
DOG EVENTS MEETUPS IN WEST CHESTER Find Dog Meetups happening near West Chester. meetup.com/topics/dog-events/us/pa/west_chester/
“Where Dogs Play All Day” Toby’s K-9 Kamp is a premier doggy daycare conveniently located in West Chester. With a friendly and knowledgeable staff of dog lovers, it is truly a fun and exciting place for dogs to spend their days! • Constant supervision • Small staff to pup ratio • Climate controlled facility • 2 spacious indoor play pens • Toys to play with • Cage free play
• Cushioned rubber flooring for safer rough housing and wrestling • Outdoor fenced-in “potty” area to reinforce good behavior desired at home
15 S. Bolmar Street, West Chester Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:30pm Call us! 610.430.1330 • tobysk9kamp.com
Voted “Best Doggy Daycare in Chester County” 5 years in a row!
SPRING 2017
5
Your Pets Will Adore Us! Do you feel guilty leaving your pet? Use Pet Nanny to boost your pet's spirit and ease their lonely heart when you're forced to leave them home alone. Offering In-home Pet Sitting, Dog Walking, House Sitting and Concierge Services on the Main Line of Philadelphia.
CCP
COMIng SOOn... Media and West Chester areas
Chester COUNTY PET The premier resource for connecting the Chester County, PA Community with pet and animal related information, services and events!
LCP
chestercountypet.com 717.406.7811
www.pet-nanny.net Call us today! 610-716-7826 Use promo code “CCPETS30� and save $30 off your 1st service order of $100 or more through May 31, 2017. We are always looking for dedicated Pet Nannies to join our dream team.
LANCASTER COUNTY PET
Where your pets are treated just like our very own pets! A full service, state of the art facility where caring, knowledgeable, experienced professionals provide the very best in veterinary care. The staff of Aardvark Animal Hospital know that your pet is an important part of your family and we will work with you to ensure the highest quality experience for you and your pet. Aardvark Animal Hospital provides Compassionate, Professional, Veterinary care. We care for many varieties of pets, from dogs and cats, to small exotic animals and small farm animals.
PROCEDURES WE PERFORM Soft Tissue Surgery Orthopedic surgeries On-Site Digital x-ray Ultrasounds Annual exams Annual Vaccinations Emergencies Abdominal Exploratory
6 CHESTER COUNTY PET
Laser Therapy Thyroid Removal Pyloric Stenosis Correction Foreign Body Removal Major/Minor Mass Removals Anal Sac Removal Liver Lobe removal Splenectomy
Mama Kitty
139 Wallace Avenue Downingtown, PA 19335 610-269-2226 aardvarkanimalhospital.com
+ EVENTS
Events
FABULOUS FELINE FESTIVAL CAT SHOW & EXPO
MARCH
11 RESCUE MEET & GREET AT PICKERING IN EXTON ALL 4 PAWS Pickering Valley Feed & Farm Store 305 Gordon Drive, Exton all4pawsrescue.com
12 MEET & GREET TO LOVE A CANINE RESCUE Pet Supplies Plus West Goshen Shopping Center 959 Paoli Pike, West Chester tlcrescuepa.com
19 CLASSIC OAKS HORSE SHOW AT WYNDSOR CHESTER COUNTY HORSE SHOW ASSOCIATION Wyndsor Farm Route 23, Elverson chestercountyhorseshowassociation.com
25 & 26
FABULOUS FELINE FESTIVAL CAT SHOW & EXPO CATS INCREDIBLE, INC. HUDSON VALLEY CAT CLUB ATLANTIC HIMALAYAN CLUB RAGAMUFFIN CAT FANCIERS Church Farm School 1001 E. Lincoln Highway, Exton facebook.com/FabFelineFestival
APRIL
1 CHESTER COUNTY PET FOOD PANTRY DAY ANIMAL HOUSE PROJECT 1055 S. Hanover Street, Pottstown animalhouseproject.org
8 CRITTER CRAWL 5K RUN AND
13 2ND ANNUAL KENNETT
1K RUN/WALK LAMANCHA ANIMAL RESCUE Hibernia Park 1 Park Road, Coatesville lamancha5k.com
ROTARY PETFEST ROTARY CLUB OF KENNETT SQUARE Anson B. Nixon Park 95 Crosslands Drive, Kennett Square kennettsquarerotary.org
9 6TH ANNUAL TAILS
14 25TH ANNIVERSARY RUNNING
AND TRAILS 5K RUN AND 3K WALK MAIN LINE ANIMAL RESCUE Pickering Meade Farm 1149 Pike Springs Road, Phoenixville mlar.org
OF THE WILLOWDALE STEEPLECHASE THE WILLOWDALE STEEPLECHASE 101 E. Street Road, Kennett Square willowdalesteeplechase.org
15 DOG TRACKING WORKSHOP 1 CHESCO Nottingham County Park 150 Park Road, Nottingham chesco.org/1744/Nottingham-County-Park
22 BARK FOR LIFE! AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY Memorial Park 75 W. King Street, Pottstown relayforlife.org/barkpapottstown
22 WALK FOR PAWS AND 5K RUN BRANDYWINE VALLEY SPCA West Goshen Community Park 1023 Fern Hill Road, West Chester bvspca.org
MAY
13 UNLEASHED & UNCORKED CANINE PARTNERS FOR LIFE The Chesapeake Ballroom 365 Airport Road, New Castle, DE k94life.org
15
8TH ANNUAL SPRINGER GOLF TOURNAMENT & AUCTION MAIN LINE ANIMAL RESCUE Stonewall Golf Club 375 Bulltown Road, Elverson mlar.org
25-6/4 DEVON HORSE SHOW & COUNTRY FAIR THE DEVON HORSE SHOW 23 Dorset Road, Devon devonhorseshow.net
Have a 2017 SUMMER Event? Contact:
sales@chestercountypet.com For additional events, please visit us at chestercountypet.com Events are subject to change. Please contact event host.
WINTER SPRING 2016 2017
7
Rabbit Hopping A groundbreaking sport that’s bringing bunnies and their owners together written by Samantha St.Clair photographed by Samantha St.Clair
There is a fascinating sport taking hold of many Pennsylvania pet owners, and it's not with typical sporting pets. Instead, it involves rabbits, who are becoming more popular as pets, and in recent years, as athletes. While the image of bunnies hopping through spring fields is not new, the thought of them training and competing is a unique idea in the United States. If you’re looking for a fun way to bond with your new or current furry friend, you may be surprised to learn just how much the exciting sport of rabbit hopping can bring to your lives.
+ THE BARN
What is Rabbit Hopping? Rabbit performance events were founded in Sweden in the 1970s and didn’t come to the United States until 2001. It was in Harrisburg that the very first national competition was hosted by the American Rabbit Breeder’s Association (ARBA) in 2013. Today, Pennsylvania remains one of the top rabbit hopping states in its number of events and participants. So what exactly is rabbit hopping? Its name describes it simply, as it consists of rabbits hopping over jumps. It is fashioned after horse show jumping and shares similar qualities, though it has been modified to suit the appropriate species. Courses consist of several jumps placed no less than 6 feet apart for safety purposes. Competitors are judged based on the time it takes them to complete the course and how few bars they knock down. “It’s so exciting to watch people and their pets light up when they realize how much fun the activity is,” Tammy Steele, Vice President of the American Hopping Association for Rabbits and Cavies commented. Tammy first got into rabbit sports thanks to her daughter's interest in it. “My daughter Alexis started the whole journey, and it has become a huge focus of mine,” she said. Tammy demonstrates rabbit hopping at multiple venues in Pennsylvania and surrounding areas throughout the year. She dedicates her time spreading awareness about how wonderful rabbits are as pets, and how sports can change both two and four-legged lives.
“They are the most gentle and sensitive pets.”
fulfilling, trouble free lives. “They are the most gentle and sensitive pets, and their true potential is often unknown, even to people who own them,” Tammy said. “By giving them the opportunity to do a sport, you’re bringing joy and purpose into their lives, and your relationship with them will surely prosper as a result.”
Getting Started It is important to note, not every rabbit enjoys the sport, and that’s ok. “Confident, curious and active personalities tend to make good jumpers,” Tammy said, “though it does not mean that those without those qualities will not take to it.” She cautions owners to be attentive to their bunny’s wants. Rabbit hopping should be a fun activity, not one in which the participants feel stressed. Because of this, it is important to allow your pet to make the decision on whether or not to pursue the sport. “Patience is a huge part of starting out,” she said. “While rabbits may not appear interested at first, it can take some time before they understand the sport.” Tammy recommends attending classes, as bunnies learn well from watching each other. If there are no trainers in your area, she recommends traveling at least once to get one of your rabbits trained so it can help teach others. “This is also a great way to introduce the activity in other areas. If people attend classes and bring that knowledge and experience home, it’ll help promote the sport.”
Changing Lives “It’s a natural thing for rabbits to hop,” Tammy said. “This sport provides mental and physical stimulation for them. Giving them a job and exercise improves their quality of life.” Beyond making pets happier and healthier, this activity provides much needed bonding time. Through rabbit hopping, Tammy has seen many cases where “troubled” bunnies have become their owners’ best friends.
If you are stuck learning at home, there are some guidelines to follow. First, ensuring your rabbit is comfortable wearing an H-style harness is important, as they should always be leashed during sessions. Training them to run across mats before introducing jumps is another easier step in starting out. When it comes time to bring the jumps into the picture, starting with low bars and giving your pet plenty of encouragement and praise is the best approach.
“We had an owner come to us at a show saying she couldn’t even hold her rabbit, so we showed her how to handle him and introduced him to hopping. Some time after, we received a large letter from her thanking us for giving her a relationship with her pet,” Tammy said. “The sport opens doors for friendships and can easily change lives, and that’s the real benefit of the programs I run.”
“They feed off our energy and can tell when we are happy. They love hearing us laughing,” Tammy said. “The most important thing is to avoid getting frustrated, because they will feed off that energy, too.” When you keep an open, excited mind and listen to your rabbit, participating in any activity with them will bring you closer together.
Rabbits are intelligent, which is a quality they often do not get credit for, though they certainly should. This intelligence is why Tammy believes they should be given a job to ensure they live
“People are really getting into this sport, and we cannot wait to see how the program expands in the coming years.” Learn more about rabbit hopping at rabbithopping.com
10 CHESTER COUNTY PET
ADDITIONAL SPORTS: RABBIT SPORTS DON’T STOP AT RABBIT HOPPING. RABBITS CAN ALSO PARTICIPATE IN AGILITY, WHICH IS SIMILAR TO CANINE AGILITY WHERE THEY MUST COMPLETE VARIOUS OBSTACLES. AGILITY IS RECOMMENDED FOR LARGER RABBITS, WHILE RABBIT HOPPING IS BETTER SUITED FOR SMALLER RABBITS.
SPRING 2017
11
12 CHESTER COUNTY PET
+ THE GOOD STUFF
Our favoriteS Products for your pets... check your local retailer for these goodies
2 JW GUITAR BIRD TOY JW Insight Guitar Bird Toy gets birds rocking with spinnable tuning beads and bells! $6.99
1 3
SMELLS & STAINS Natural Chemistry Smells & Stains uses a specialized blend of natural enzymes and botanicals to safely and effectively remove stains and odors from the source, not simply mask them. $16.99
SMARTPAK HEAVY DUTY BELL BOOTS Premium rubber bell boots with Velcro® double hook and loop closures. $19.95
5 PHARM-ALOE K-9 ALOE TREATS Helps support a strong immune system, soothes digestive system, improves joint function and more. $11.99 • Pharm-Aloe.com 717.806.1035
4 PETSTAGES TOWER OF TRACKS CAT TOY A durable toy consisting of three levels of exciting cat play. Each level includes its own circular track and ball. $13.99
SPRING 2017
13
+ SPECIAL
VALERIE AND HER DOG, CLEO, AT LONGWOOD GARDENS
Service Dogs PHOTO BY DAVE OSBERG
Canine Partners for Life
C
anine Partners for Life (CPL), based in Cochranville, PA, was founded in 1989 by Darlene Sullivan, a former special education instructor and animal trainer. Her dream, now CPL’s mission, was to increase the independence and quality of life of individuals with physical, developmental, and cognitive disabilities or who are in other situations of need. CPL achieves this mission by providing and sustaining professionally trained service and companion dogs. In addition to the traditional service dog partner, we place seizure, cardiac, and diabetes alert dogs, as well as home, residential, and courthouse companion dogs. Since our inception,
14 CHESTER COUNTY PET14 CHESTER COUNTY PET
CPL has placed more than 650 service and companion dogs nationwide to assist people with disabilities. Every day our dogs make independence and a better quality of life possible for their human partners. CPL places service dogs with individuals who have various physical, neurological, and cognitive disabilities. These disabilities cause mobility impairments and balance disorders, diďŹƒculty using hands and/or arms, and health related fatigue
issues. Our graduates also face challenges with seizures, cardiac syncope, and Type 1 Diabetes. Dogs trained by CPL assist their partners by performing tasks, improving mobility, and increasing socialization. In addition, medical alert dogs can warn their partners to oncoming seizures, sudden cardiac events, and rapid drops in blood sugar levels. To learn more about the many ways CPL uses canine partners to change lives, visit k94life.org.
WINNER of 9 Hampton Brand Spirit Awards FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE! "We LOVE having you here...at the Hampton Inn EXTON!”
HAMPTON INN EXTON 4 N. Pottstown Pike | Exton, PA 19341 610-363-5555
We are 100% Pet-Friendly (no additional charges)
www.hamptoninnexton.com
ASK ABOUT OUR BOW WOW PACKAGE FOR YOUR FURRY FRIENDS.
SPRING 2017
15
+ S E A S O NA L
If you’re getting ready to plant your garden or you’re just looking to add a little bit of green to your home, be wary of these popular but poisonous plants so your pets stay happy and healthy this season.
SPRING
Steer Clear of Lilies and Oleander
Spring is upon us, which means it’s time for play dates in the park, swim dates in the lake, and fur elimination dates in your home. All dogs shed to a certain degree, and dogs with thicker coats “blow” their coat, leading to a storm of hair in your house. While there isn’t a way to completely eliminate shedding, there are some recommendations to to make shedding or blowing less drastic, which is easier on you, your furniture, and your vacuum. Feed your pup a good diet That’s right, a dog’s nutrition plays a huge role in how much they shed. Commercial dog foods can lend a hand in your dog’s massive shedding. When fillers and meals are listed as the starting ingredients, your pup may not be getting adequate nutrition, which can lead to a poor coat. Search for healthier, higher end dog foods that list meat as the first ingredient. Not only will your dog’s coat improve, but so will their overall health. Add a tablespoon of flaxseed or olive oil to the dog’s meals, as this may reduce skin inflammation and deter dandruff along with improving their coat. Make brushing a daily event Daily brushing will remove excess hair before it is shed onto your couch or floors. Brushing is also an excellent bonding activity, so adding it to your routine has multiple benefits. Don’t worry about sticking to a set schedule; instead, make it a regular habit before you go to bed or while you are watching TV with your pup. When you brush your dog, you can collect their fur for good causes, too. Matter of Trust, a non-profit organization, has a program called Clean Wave where they use donated dog fur to clean oil spills in the ocean. Provide a stress free environment Stress and anxiety can lead to excessive shedding. Does your dog have a nervous personality? Has anything changed in their daily routine? Perhaps you have a new family member or recently moved? Anything that causes your dog to feel anxious can lead to more shedding. By creating a safe, neutral space for your dog to retreat to, you may be able to reduce shedding and give them a much needed break from whatever is causing them to feel stressed. Give your dog their own crate filled with blankets, pillows, and toys, or create a quiet room for them to relax. Adding a touch of lavender oil to the air may also be beneficial, as it is well known as a calming scent. While some breeds are just natural shedders and you won’t be able to eliminate hair in your home entirely, keeping these tips in mind should keep hair from taking over your home.
Grass is fresh, tasty, attractive, sweet-smelling and has an appealing texture. It also doubles as medicine when pets are feeling ill.
16 CHESTER COUNTY PET
Be Careful with Tulips
Say No to Azalea and Rhododendron
Avoid Sago Palm
Pass on the Cocoa Mulch source: aspca.org
+ MEET THE BREED
Norwegian Fjord A rare breed of therapy horse
T
obin, a therapy horse at Quest Therapeutic Services in West Chester, is an absolute joy to watch working with children. He’s a beautiful Norwegian Fjord, which is an uncommon sight to behold, and as it turns out, an excellent breed for his work. Tobin joined the Quest team in February of 2009 and has since helped hundreds of children with his services in hippotherapy. Hippotherapy is also referred to as Equine-Assisted Therapy and is different from therapeutic riding programs. Instead of riding, children with special needs receive therapy with the help of licensed physical and occupational therapists, as well as speech therapists. Children sit in various positions on the horse while performing various tasks such as reaching for objects, placing objects and talking. The rocking motion of the horse not only helps children with their muscles, but also with coordination, joint stability, posture, range of movement, balance, and more. Children often take their first steps or say their first words after they begin hippotherapy sessions. “One of the things we noticed was we had never heard our son laugh before he had started Equine Assisted Therapy,” a mother of a six year old patient at Quest commented. “He’s more talkative in the car ride home after his sessions than he is any other time. He’s been coming to Quest for a little over four years now, and the differences are incredible.” While many horses provide hippotherapy services to children in need, Tobin is one that stands out. The broad, strong, and short stature of his breed are key features that make him ideal for his job. Due to these attributes, he provides patients with more stability and can carry more weight. Tobin’s personality may be greater than his looks, as it earns him the love of everyone who interacts with him. No matter the mood children are in, Tobin eagerly greets them and is ready for work. He loves attention, and if people have food for him, it’s all the better! Perhaps his and the kids’ favorite part of each day is when he receives his favorite treats while the kids enjoy petting him to end their session. When not working, Tobin appreciates much the same - plenty of food, love, and free time in the pasture with his friends. While his free time is nice, in accordance with his breed, he feels most fulfilled when he gets to do his job. The Norwegian Fjord is a dedicated, driven, and social horse and Tobin is a perfect example of their beauty.
M Learn more about Quest Therapeutic Services by visiting them online: questtherapeutic.com
SPRING 2017
17
+ COMMUNITY
COLLEEN WITH DR. WATSON
Q&A Colleen Sedgwick (Owner of Pet Nanny Pet Sitters of the Main Line)
PET NANNY began as a pet sitting service run entirely by Colleen in 2001. Today, she contracts an average of 30-40 local pet care professionals that serve over 1,000 clients on the Main Line. When you leave your pet in a Pet Nanny sitter’s care, you can rest assured they will treat your furry family member as one of their own. Every sitter on the team dedicates their time to providing your pet with compassionate, quality care from the moment you hire them until after you return home. CCP: What made you decide to focus
CCP: Why would you recommend
your career on pets? CS: I graduated with a degree in special education and I loved working with kids, but I couldn’t see myself spending every day in the same room. I knew I needed a career that would get me out and moving. I have always loved animals, and when the idea came to me to start a sitting service, I ran with it. I couldn’t be happier.
people hire a pet sitter? they need. For most pets, remaining at home is best while they are already dealing with the stress of their owners being away. We are here for those that find solace in their own environment.
CCP: What makes your pet sitters ideal
CS: We are running a professional
for watching people’s beloved pets?
business and are all about customer satisfaction which is why communication is a top priority. We have competitive rates, customizable plans, and first-rate staff with practical experience in the field. I have clients who have been with me since the start due to our efforts.
CS: It’s always about the pet and what
CCP: What sets Pet Nanny apart
PHOTO BY CAROLYN NOLL PHOTOGRAPHY
from other sitting services?
CS: Everyone on the Pet Nanny team is an animal lover, has a clear background check, is reliable and trustworthy, and knows animal CPR and first aid. Our sitters always put clients first and do everything they can to support happy customers.
18 CHESTER COUNTY PET
More about COLLEEN SEDGWICK M PETS: Colleen owns two dogs, a terrier mix named Dr. Watson, and a Shih Tzu/Bichon cross named Eloise. M LOCAL: Growing up in Chesterbrook, Colleen still resides in Chester County and is glad to serve her local community. M DEVOTED: Colleen received her first dog for her first birthday and never looked back. Since falling in love with animals at such a young age, Colleen always strives to make the lives of pets better. M HOBBIES: In her free time, she is a paddle tennis and tennis enthusiast. In addition to being active, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
610.716.7826 • pet-nanny.net
+ A S K T H E EX P E RT
Spring ticks Advice from the Professional written by Doug Weber
QUESTION: It’s March, and we found ticks even though it’s still cold out. I thought they were gone for the winter. What can we do? QUESTION: Springtime is always the worst time for ticks at my house, what can I do to get rid of ticks in my yard this spring? ANSWER: These are two common questions I get at this time of year, and the answers overlap a lot. Ticks can be active all year long, but due to their life cycle, we tend to see a spike in their activity in the spring and fall. Anytime temperatures are over 45 degrees you will see an increase in tick activity. Minimizing them is not hard, but takes some work. Keeping your property neat is the key. You want to remove leaf and brush piles and keep woodpiles off the ground. These two areas tend to trap moisture and create the ideal area for both ticks and mice. Mice are the most common way for ticks to enter your yard as the first two blood meals a tick needs will come from a rodent or a bird, so controlling mice will keep a lot of new ticks out! In the spring (and warmer winter days) keep an eye on downed branches, old brush piles, and leaves and clean them up as soon as possible. If you are able, pile wood and brush outside of the area that kids and pets frequent. Spring and fall are also an excellent time to trim bushes and plants back so there is a gap between the home and the plants. This helps minimize invaders. Finally, use products such as Tick Tubes (www.ticktubes.com) in the spring and fall to break the life cycle of ticks. When in doubt, call the professionals at Mosquito Squad.com (610-991-8353)!
DOUG WEBER with his Bouvier, Simi, is the owner of MOSQUITO SQUAD of Chester and Delaware Counties. chestercounty.mosquitosquad.com
SPRING 2017
19
+ RESCUE HIGHLIGHT
The Magic of LaMancha A country rescue with a lot of heart written by Samantha St.Clair photographed by Samantha St.Clair
20 CHESTER COUNTY PET
outdoor access to keep them entertained and comfortable, and all farm animals have spacious fields to graze. Guests will always feel at home when they arrive at the rescue, as there is a greeting crew of friendly, permanent residents waiting to meet them. Included in the greeting team are several Great Pyrenees ready for affection, an ex-fighting dog with a big heart, and several other farm dogs. If a doggy welcome doesn’t make you feel at home, there are plenty of other beautiful creatures waiting to say hello. Friendly volunteers add the finishing touches, as they are available to assist in adoptions and answer any questions.
LaMANCHA ANIMAL RESCUE, located in rural Unionville, was first formed to save ex-racehorses. However, as they grew they included more animals with the notion that every pet deserves a second chance. Due to their acceptance of unique animals, they are one of the most diverse rescues in the area. While LaMancha’s primary focus was once on horses, dogs have taken that role in recent years. They help over 500 dogs find new homes every year, though they also assist cats, horses, pigs, goats, emus, and cows to name a few. They truly are a no animal gets left behind facility, and with vast farmland they accommodate as many animals as possible. Their rescues come from a variety of backgrounds including owner surrenders, strays, and shelter pulls.
Without volunteers, LaMancha wouldn’t be able to help the animals it does. With a team of around 200 volunteers, everything from socializing, walking, and feeding the animals is taken care of on a daily basis. They are always looking for more volunteers, as their rescues can never get enough love. For anyone hesitant about volunteering, the LaMancha volunteers have nothing but greatness to speak of the rescue. “This place is not only a sanctuary for the animals, but for the people that come here, too,” Cecilia said. “I find it so peaceful here. We get to watch lives transform before our eyes, and we get to see happy, healthy animals start new journeys. It doesn’t get better than that.”
“Many of our dogs come from overpopulated shelters where they would otherwise be euthanized,” Cecilia, a volunteer at LaMancha said. The rescue is known for its work in saving Great Pyrenees and Karelian Bear Dogs in particular, though they will help any breed in need. They also house animals with behavioral and health problems, and allow significant time for them to recover and receive training and socializing. After rehabilitation, they are healthy, happy, and ready for new homes. Aside from giving just about any animal a chance at a new life, LaMancha sets itself apart in its beautiful atmosphere. Dogs have large, open play areas to burn off energy, cats have indoor and
Visit LaMancha online to view available animals, learn more about their program, and schedule your visit to this piece of paradise: lamanchaanimalrescue.org
SPRING 2017
21
+ P ET S E RV I C E S
WATCHING FISH SWIM IN AN AQUARIUM FOR FIFTEEN MINUTES A DAY LOWERS BLOOD PRESSURE AND REDUCES STRESS.
Sit and Stay Below are just a few of the many businesses in the area
BOARDERS
GROOMERS
When it comes to leaving our beloved pets, be it for a day or week, only the best boarding establishments will do.
If your canine or feline friend is in need of some fur and nail styling, there is no shortage of passionate and professional groomers here in Chester County.
Animal Resorts 301 Jefferis Road Downingtown, PA 19335 610.942.3800 • animalresorts.info Best Friends Pet Care 3914 Pyle Road, Chadds Ford, PA 19317 610.459.2724 bestfriendspetcare.com/chadds-ford-pa/ Goodspice Kennels, LLC 2027 Limestone Road Cochranville, PA 19330 610.593.6110 • goodspicekennels.com Hickory Springs Farm Kennel 1095 Pike Springs Road Phoenixville, PA 19460 610.557.3202 • hickoryspringsfarm.com What a Good Dog, Inc 225 Three Tun Road, Malvern, PA 19355 610.296.9243 • whatagooddoginc.com
Dirty Dog Solutions 3549A Rhoads Avenue Newtown Square, PA 19073 610.355.9500 • dirtydogsolutions.com Lucie’s Barkingham Palace 2463 Yellow Springs Road Malvern, PA 19355 610.240.0190 luciesbarkinghampalace.com Malvern Groomers 114 W King Street, Malvern, PA 19355 484.320.8548 • malverngrooms.com The Dog House 45 N Bailey Road, Thorndale, PA 19372 610.384.3702 Toby’s K9 Kamp 15 S Bolmar Street West Chester, PA 19382 610.430.1330 • tobysk9kamp.com
DOG TRAINERS
Top 5 reasons to train your dog 1. Strengthens your relationship with your dog.
2. Training mentally stimulates your dog.
3. A trained dog can have more freedom.
4. Decreases behavior issues. 5. A trained dog is six times less likely to be surrendered or returned to a shelter.
22 CHESTER COUNTY PET
Chester County has many skilled and talented dog trainers to help improve your relationship with your dog.
Dog Training Center of Chester County 880 Springdale Drive, Suite 100 Exton, PA 19341 610.280.6960 • dtccc.org Pepper’s Paws, LLC 484-574-0618 • PeppersPaws.com Misguided Mutts Dog Behavior Training, LLC 846 West Chester Pike West Chester, PA 19382 484.840.6064 westchesterpadogtraining.com Wooters Dog Training 610.296.1173 • wootersdogtraining.com
PET SITTERS You will find these experienced and passionate pet care professionals are happy to watch over your furry family members.
Happy Tails Petsitting Services, Inc PO Box 72904, Thorndale, PA 19372 610.380.6309 or 484.459.0454 joycelovespets.com Home Sweet Home Pet Care PO Box 221 Unionville, PA 19375 610.347.2341 • Racyn1@gmail.com PetCare Group, Inc. Jen Fiorillo 200 Yorkminster Road West Chester, PA 19382 610.738.2273
+ AROUND CHESTER
Pets for adoption Below are just a few of the many pets available at Brandywine Valley SPCA. Thanks to all the wonderful staff and volunteers. bvspca.org
Teddy
Otis
Porter
Diamond
Augustus
Diana
“LIKE US ON FACEBOOK” to stay updated on what our next theme will be and for information on submitting your pet’s photo for the next edition! SPRING 2017
23
+ I N F O R M AT I O N
i
EMERGENCY SERVICES
Pet resources
ANIMAL SUPPORT AGENCIES All 4 Paws Rescue, Inc. Foster-based, all-breed, No kill animal rescue PO Box 122, Chester Springs, PA 19425 610.731.1086 all4pawsrescue.com All Things Pawssible Rescue All Breed Rescue Downingtown, PA 19335 ATPAR.org Animal House Project Chester County Pet Food Pantry 1055 S. Hanover Street, Suite 1 Pottstown, PA 19465 • 484.558.0467 Animalhouseproject.org Brandywine Valley SPCA No Kill Animal Shelter 1212 Phoenixville Pike West Chester, PA 19380 • 484.302.0865 bvspca.org Cat Angel Network No kill cat rescue PetSmart Pottstown & PetSmart Exton catangel.org CompAnimals Pet Rescue No Kill Animal Shelter 1497 Flint Hill Road, Landenberg, PA 19350 610.255.1614 companimals.org Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Goldendoodles and Labradoodles 60 Vera Cruz Road, Reinholds, PA 17569 717.484.4799 dvgrr.org Delaware Valley Pug Rescue Pug Rescue PO Box 861, Avondale, PA 19311 610.268.5574 dvpr.org Doberman Pinscher Rescue of PA, Inc. All-volunteer, non-profit rescue Oxford, PA 19363 dprpa.org 24 CHESTER COUNTY PET
Hope Veterinary Specialists 40 Three Tun Road, Malvern, PA 19355 610.296.2099 hopevs.com
DogsHome Rescue Rehoming Sheltered Dogs PO Box 484, Paoli, PA 19301 dogshomepa.org
West Chester Veterinary Medical Center 1141 West Chester Pike West Chester, PA 19382 • 610.696.8712 westchestervetmedcenter.com
Greenmore Farm Animal Rescue, No Kill Animal Shelter and Rescue 246 Clonmell-Upland Road West Grove, PA 19390 greenmorerescue.org
Veterinary Referral Center (VRC) 340 Lancaster Avenue, Malvern, PA 19355 610.647.2950 vrcmalvern.com
LaMancha Animal Rescue No Kill Animal Rescue PO Box 656, Unionville, PA 19375 610.384.7976 lamanchaanimalrescue.org Main Line Animal Rescue Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals PO Box 89, Chester Springs, PA 19425 610.933.0606 mlar.org Phoenix Animal Rescue Animal Rescue and Fostering Chester Springs, PA 19425 phoenixanimalrescue.com To Love a Canine Rescue, Inc. All-breed, foster based dog rescue PO Box 422, Kimberton, PA 19442 610.908.2855 TLCrescuePA.com Treetops Animal Rescue Rehoming sheltered Dogs and Cats by Fostering Landenberg, PA 19350 484.727.7456 treetopsrescue.org
SERVICE DOGS Canine Partners For Life Training Service Dogs to Assist Individuals with Disabilities PO Box 170, Cochranville, PA 19330 610.869.4902 k94life.org
SUPPORT Day By Day Pet Caregiver Support Pet grief support PO Box 633, Drexel Hill, PA 19026 484.453.8210 • daybydaypetsupport.com
CCP Chester COUNTY PET
LCP LANCASTER COUNTY PET
chestercountypet.com
Chester County Cat Hospital Our goal is to keep your feline in purrfect health! We are devoted to providing your cat with compassionate care and the highest quality medical services. Established in 1997, the hospital was designed to minimize stresses that can interfere with healing and your cat's general well being.
Practice Exclusively for Felines We’re happy to invite you and your special feline to the cat hospital. This coupon is good for $25 OFF your first-time visit for all new clients.
OUR SERVICES: • Preventive Care Exams • Vaccinations • Grooming • Behavior Consultations • Surgery • Dentistry • Medical Boarding/Observation • House Calls • End of Life Care • Diet Consultations • Health Products
(one per client and for new clients only.)
Rachel Stadler, VMD
Chester County Cat Hospital 108 S. High Street West Chester, PA 19382 (610) 701-MEOW (6369) www.cccathospital.com
We are proud members of the following organizations: American Veterinary Medical Association Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association American Association of Feline Practitioners