Lancaster County Pet Spring 2015

LCP LANCASTER COUNTY PET

Lancaster, PENNSYLVANIA Pet and Animal INformation, Services and Events

Lancaster City Mounted Police + Lancaster, PENNSYLVANIA Pet and Animal TNR Program INformation, Services and Events (Trap-Neuter-Return)

+ Lancaster County SPCA

PREMIERE ISSUE SPRING 2015

CONTENTS

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

6

3

Lancaster County Mounted Unit The horses and officers that protect our city and serve our community

BY SAMANTHA ST.CLAIR

12

Welcome to LCP!

4

Tips Fun Facts and Information About Pets, from travel to local laws

TNR Program How to help stray cats in the community through spay and neuter services

Letter From Editor

5

Events Local events from April-June 2015

BY SAMANTHA ST.CLAIR

10

The Good Stuff Our Favorite Toys, find a new gift for your best friend

14

Community Dr. Hall, a veterinarian with a good cause

15

Health Five Healthy Snacks to Share with Your Dog

16

Meet the Breed Siberian Husky, a breed with stunning looks and high intelligence

18

Seasonal Dangerous Plants, plants you should avoid having around your pets

19

Fun Focus Agility, an athletic canine sport that can help you bond with your dog

20

Rescue Highlight Lancaster County SPCA, helping pets of all varieties in many ways

22

Pet Services Sit & Stay, resources for grooming and hotel services

24

Information Pet Resources and Contact Information

12 TNR Program

SPRING 2015

1

LCP

Lancaster, PENNSYLVANIA Pet and Animal INformation, Services and Events

Caring for pets... and their people, too.

LANCASTER COUNTY PET

Lancaster, PENNSYLVANIA Pet and Animal INformation, Services and Events

Our doctors provide a range of general medical and surgical services. We can take care of your dog, cat, rabbit, pot-bellied pig, ferret, and a variety of birds. Stop in with your furry or feathered friends and check out our recently remodeled hospital!

Publisher Cecilia Cove, LLC Editor in Chief Samantha St.Clair Managing Editor Violet Brown Contributing Editor Joyce Freiwald Art Director Sally Heineman

FREE First Exam!

Sales Helen Venesky

VCA HOME DELIVERY

For New Clients Get a Free Pet Health Exam Complete our online form to instantly receive your Free Pet Health Exam coupon for VCA Bridgeport Animal Hospital in Lancaster, PA. Our veterinarians and veterinary staff looks forward to meeting you soon.

Pet Medication and Food Delivery to Your Home Your pet’s medication delivered to your door. Everyone benefits from our unique Home Delivery service, but the biggest winner is your pet, because they will never miss a treatment schedules.

?

Primary Care

Advanced Care

Preventive Care

Pet Grooming

VCA Bridgeport Animal Hospital

Pet Boarding

Contributors Joey Venesky Jody Newman Published by Cecilia Cove, LLC P.O. Box 44, Marietta, PA 17547 717.406.7811 • lancastercountypet.com Advertising inquiries email: sales@lancastercountypet.com

Pet Counseling Care

1251 Ranck Mill Road Lancaster, PA 17602 Phone: 717-393-9074 Fax: 717-393-6619 Mon-Thu 8:00 AM - 7:30 PM Fri 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Sat 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM Sun 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM vcahospitals.com/bridgeport

2 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

Photographers Samantha St.Clair Helen Venesky

HAVE ANY FEEDBACK TO GIVE US? Or perhaps you have ideas for topics you’d like to see in our publication - or a unique story about your own pet! If so, please contact us at editor@lancastercountypet.com to give your ideas and feedback. We thoroughly appreciate all of your ideas and comments.

E D I TO R’S L ET T E R

I WANT TO WELCOME EVERYONE TO LANCASTER COUNTY PET. As a new magazine our whole team is looking forward to getting to know the pets and owners of Lancaster County. We’ve already met a lot of great people and animals while putting together articles for this first edition.

If these first few months are an outlook on what we have to look forward to, well, we are surely excited to keep meeting more fellow pet lovers!

It is with this idea of community that I want to bring attention to one of our main goals as a publication. We want to connect with pet owners in the county and make this publication about all of you by hearing your experiences and insights, as well as providing you with new information.

From heartwarming stories of adoption to informational tidbits about pet care, we know the best sources are right here in the community. We look forward to speaking with both experts as well as everyday pet owners.

Throughout our magazine you’ll find informative bubbles.

HELPFUL TIP

THE LATIN PHRASE “MULTUM IN PARVO” IS OFTEN USED TO DESCRIBE PUGS. IT MEANS “A LOT OF DOG IN A SMALL SPACE.”

Our other main goal is to provide a rich source of information on pet health, care, training and everything else out there we find valuable for pet owners to know about. We will be the source for everything ranging from upcoming events, to debate topics on animal ownership issues, to where you can walk your dog or ride your horse. We want to explore everything Lancaster County has to offer to its pet community.

Exploration is best achieved through not only our knowledge, but your knowledge as well. We want to keep in contact with all of our readers.

Feel free to contact us with issues you’d like explored, or breeds you’d like highlighted, or anything else you feel others need to know about. We are open to hearing the voices of Lancaster’s pet owners - in fact, we’d love to hear from all of you.

As animal lovers who have dedicated much of our lives to both our own pets as well as animals in shelters, we look forward to continuing this publication and meeting many more animal lovers in Lancaster County as time goes on.

Please enjoy our first issue.

SPRING 2015

3

TIPS

Lancaster County now

TipS to Tails Fun Facts about Pets

contains an estimated 5,000 farms with 425,336 acres in agriculture. Average size is 78 acres.

PETS ON VACATION According to a Pet Travel Survey, just under 50% of travelers will take their pet with them in the next three months, while another 40% will be taking their four-legged friends on a road trip within the next year. Dogs are deďŹ nitely the most popular traveling companion.

Approximately 86% of owners say they choose to vacation with their pet, with only a quarter of those owners taking their cats. Just under 60% took their dogs with them when they traveled last year. Those traveling with pets also prioritize their animals, nine out of ten of those surveyed say they would change travel plans if it would make it more convenient to take their pet.

A person living in our Commonwealth owning or keeping a DOG or CAT over 3 months of age shall have the dog or cat vaccinated against rabies.

Dog Licenses are needed IN LANCASTER COUNTY Contact: Lancaster County Government Center 150 N Queen St., Lancaster 717.299.8222 Cats are prone to dehydration in the Spring. Keep their bowl ďŹ lled with fresh water.

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the most popular breed in Pennsylvania is the Labrador retriever.

4 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

Events APRIL | MAY | JUNE

2015

SPRING FLING

KPETS host PENN Animal Canine Blood Bank Saturday, April 25 THAT FISH PLACE – THAT PET PLACE 237 Centerville Road, Lancaster kpets.org Spring Fling - Pitties.Peace.Love Sunday, April 26 • 10:00am – 2:00pm Adoption Event and Toy Sale PLAYFUL PUPS RETREAT 850 Milton Grove Road N. Elizabethtown pittieslovepeace.com

LANCASTER BIRD EXPO

Park City Center’s Annual Shop for a Cause Event Saturday, April 18 • 10:00am – 8:30pm PARK CITY CENTER, CENTER COURT 142 Park City Center, Lancaster parkcitycenter.com Leo’s Helping Paws Bow Wow Bingo Sunday, April 19 • 11:30am EPHRATA RECREATION CENTER 130 South Academy Drive, Ephrata leoshelpingpaws.org

Gumbo Cook-Off for Animal Rescue Saturday, May 9 • 1:00pm – 5:00pm Ten contestants will compete for top honors. All proceeds benefit local animal rescues. $25 entry fee.

Plus, a Yards Brewing promotion!

SHANK’S TAVERN 36 South Waterford Avenue, Marietta shankstavern.com Feathered Sanctuary Grand Opening Saturday, May 16 • 1:00pm – 4:00pm FEATHERED SANCTUARY EXOTIC BIRD RESCUE 1674 Kirkwood Pike, Kirkwood fsebr.webs.com Lancaster Bird Expo Saturday, May 23 • 9:00am – 5:00pm LANCASTER FARM AND HOME CENTER 1383 Arcadia Road, Lancaster lancasterbirdexpo.com

GUMBO COOK-OFF

New Holland Arts and Crafts Saturday, June 27 • 9:00am – 2:00pm Lancaster County Craft Festival NEW HOLLAND COMMUNITY PARK 401 East Jackson Street, New Holland susanressler@gmail.com

A HORSESHOE IS SAID TO BRING GOOD LUCK. SOME BELIEVE THAT TO HANG IT WITH THE ENDS POINTING UPWARDS IS GOOD LUCK.

Have an upcoming Summer Event?

Share it with us!

Events are subject to change. Please contact event host.

SPRING 2015

5

Keeping Lancaster Safe The Lancaster City Mounted Unit written by Samantha St.Clair photographed by Samantha St.Clair

6

LANCASTER COUNTY PET

“

We do everything officers in cars do.

“

– OFFICER MCVEY (The Mounted Unit answers the same calls as any other officer and responds to crimes).

KEEPING LANCASTER SAFE

What is the Lancaster Mounted Unit?

It may be somewhat strange to walk around Lancaster City and see a horse walking by.

These horses catch your attention due to their large size, and of course, the officer on their back. There is nothing to worry about, though, they belong there. They are the Lancaster City Mounted Unit and they are there to keep the city safe, organized and running smoothly.

The Lancaster Mounted Unit began in 1979 and has been a strong team ever since. Today there are four horses: Duke, the oldest, Liam, Ozzy and Charlie, the youngest. Their main riders include Officers Eric Lukacs, Scott McDonald and Greg Berry.

While officers are typically thought of as patrolling in cars, the Mounted Unit spends nearly all of their time with their horses.

“I haven’t driven a car in 15 years,” joked Officer Wayne McVey, a soon retiring Mounted Unit Officer. These officers begin and end their days with the horses. When they are not patrolling the city, they spend their time caring for the horses - from feeding to barn maintenance, to getting the horses prepped to go out on the town, the daily tasks involved keeps them quite busy.

Of course their number one job is to be a presence in Lancaster - both to be a friendly part of the community and to keep up with regular police duties.

Duties of the Mounted Unit “We do everything officers in cars do,” noted McVey. The Mounted Unit answers the same calls as any other officer and responds to crimes. They also act as a crime deterrent since they can be seen from so far away, towering above everyone on their horses. Having such a high vantage point is a huge advantage compared to what other officers can see as they can see into cars and can watch over crowds of people much easier.

“One horse and rider is equal to 10 officers on foot,” said Officer McVey when discussing how the Mounted Unit is often used for crowd control. If they need people to move back from an area, the horses are much better suited to making it happen.

The Mounted Unit can have people moved back while the other officers can move in to handle the issue. It is due to these reasons that the Mounted Unit is set apart from other officers, each benefiting the city in both similar and different ways.

McVey also noted that Mounted Unit Officers are generally a friendlier presence for the community, as people feel more relaxed when they are around the horses. This makes people want to talk to the officers more. McVey noted this was one of the best parts about working with a horse. The Mounted Unit isn’t all about serious crimes. They also help people navigate the city.

8 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

“If you are trying to find a good restaurant in town, you should always go to a cop. They always know the best places to eat,” McVey stated. They are always willing to help people, no matter the situation - be it as serious as a possible crime, or as simple as finding the best places in town to visit. If you are concerned about how dangerous this job is to the horses, you may be comforted to know nothing serious has happened to them.

“We have been fortunate,” said McVey, “most of the injuries occur when the horses are goofing around in the fields.” However, when potential threats do occur, the horses are treated like the human members of the team. People who harm them or threaten them may face jail time. The horses are trained to deal with all sorts of people. For example, they have been trained to bump people over with their shoulders when chasing people down - and no one is outrunning these horses! Thankfully, the team gets to meet a lot of nice people in their daily work as well.

The Horses The horses love the community as much as the officers do.

When you see one of them in town, you should certainly feel free to go talk to the officers and ask questions - and of course, you may also be greeted by the friendly horses on staff. While

“

If you are trying to find a good restaurant in town, you should always go to a cop.

“

you are most likely allowed to pet the horses, the officers prefer if you ask before doing so. Since they are on a job it is important to make sure they have the time to greet you.

Donating to the Mounted Unit

While all of the horses share common attributes, they each have unique personalities as well. Two of the horses featured are Duke and Charlie, the oldest and youngest horses of the team. Duke, easily distinguished from the others by his white coat, is the head of the herd. He is more laid back and enjoys bossing the other horses around. Charlie is known for being the most social horse in the Mounted Unit. Perhaps it is his curiosity that makes him love attention.

“He is the first one to put his head down and rub against people.” McVey commented about Charlie, the horse that he rode when he was part of the unit.

The common attributes between all of the horses are their eagerness please. Three of the Mounted Unit horses are draft breeds, or draft crosses, which are known for having a calm demeanor. Good police horses are also not easily spooked.

The size of the draft horses is also an advantage since it acts as a better crime deterrent.

(Top Left): Police horse Charlie sporting his police attire (Middle Right): Officer Greg Berry on Charlie and Officer Eric Lukacs on Duke (Bottom Right): Duke loves to greet people

The Mounted Unit operates on donations from the public in order to care for their horses.

Horses cost a lot between feed and supplies and vet bills among other care costs. The Mounted Unit runs events to get donations, one such large event is held every year with the Columbia Riding Club. If you are interested in attending events that benefit the mounted and canine units, you can follow them on Facebook, Lancaster City Police Mounted Unit, where events will be posted.

SPRING 2015

9

THE GOOD STUFF

Our favoriteS Nylabone Durachew Wishbone Original Flavor Great for powerful chewers, Playful Pups Retreat • $10.99

KONG Moppy Kickeroo Promotes wrestling and hind paw kicking Drake’s Pet Store • $5.99

Waggers My Little Wolf Salmon-Licious Recipe Dog Treats Drake’s Pet Store • $6.99

“Fish” lead by Lupine 4’ to 6’ with padded handle.

Lifetime guarantee even if chewed.

Playful Pups Retreat • $13.99

NEVER GIVE A BONE TO A CAT. BONES CAN SPLINTER AND CAUSE A CAT TO CHOKE.

10 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

Humane Pennsylvania believes that the best way to keep pets happy and healthy at home is to make sure they have access to high quality and affordable veterinary care!

Humane Veterinary Hospitals Lancaster and Reading are open to the public and accepting new patients!

2195 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA 17602 (717) 826-9762 lancaster@hvhospitals.org 1801 N. 11th St., Reading, PA 19604 610-921-VETS (8387) reading@hvhospitals.org

SPRING 2015

11

The reality is, most stray cats are too feral to be placed in homes.

12

LANCASTER COUNTY PET

TNR PROGRAM

TNR Program Low cost spay/neuter clinic written by Samantha St.Clair

hey can be seen just about everywhere – in the city, in the country, and perhaps near your home. Stray cats may be seen as a problem or perhaps a lost cause.

Have you ever wondered about helping these cats, either by giving them a home or trying to find them a home?

The reality is, most stray cats are too feral to be placed in homes.

There is, however, one way you can help local strays and the community as a whole.

T

The Pet Pantry is one organization that provides a TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) program for stray cats in Lancaster. The TNR program is a low cost spay/neuter clinic that helps in many ways. Population control is the base in controlling other issues such as diseases and injuries. In controlling the population, there are less cats to invade resident homes and yards where they can potentially pose a threat to both humans and their pets.

Without a TNR program, cat populations can get out of control.

They are just cats though, right? As innocent as the situation may seem, stray cats pose a number of threats. They can spread diseases to both humans and other animals, such as rabies and worms. There is also a lower chance of survival for the stray cats themselves when there are too many of them, especially when they are all intact. Intact cats are more likely to fight with each other, which can lead to serious, life threatening injuries. On top of these issues there would also be a lack of resources for the strays, leading to starvation. TNR can help with all of these issues.

The TNR program in Lancaster County has been highly beneficial for the community. In 2014 alone the Pet Pantry altered 767 stray cats. It can take 5-10 years for a Trap-Neuter-Return program to really make an impact on the community, and due to joint efforts of various organizations in the area, Lancaster’s TNR programs have been quite successful. No one likes to see animals suffer

and bringing stray cats to one of these clinics may just be one of the best ways you can help them live longer and happier lives.

While having an owner who can provide them food, shelter, and lifelong veterinary services, adopting a stray cat is not an easy solution to the problem. While these cats can become somewhat trusting of the people who feed and care for them in the area, they rarely make good pets. There is a small window of opportunity for socializing feral kittens before they too are unable to fit into home lifestyles. Often times these cats will have severe behavioral problems when people try to adjust them to home living. While it may seem like the right thing to do, it is important to realize these cats have known a whole different world for their entire lives. It is stressful for cats to adjust to new environments.

Also, with cat overpopulation in shelters already high, it is unreasonable to consider adding feral cats to shelters as well.

In the end, the TNR programs are the most feasible solution to the feral cat problem. Once altered, these cats are much calmer and less enticed to fight with other cats. In addition to changing their behaviors, TNR programs will also provide other services for the cats while they are in the veterinarian’s hands. They can receive basic vaccines, such as rabies and distemper, and can be treated for injuries. While it is sad to think about feral cats living outside their entire lives, never knowing what it is like to be loved and cared for, you can show your love by giving them the best possible care you can.

The Pet Pantry offers low cost spaying/neutering as well as basic vaccinations to feral cats for $30 with an additional fee of $15 if other problems need to be fixed. This service is only available to feral cats. The Pet Pantry tries to hold two TNR clinics a month.

If you need to bring in several cats there is no need to try to rush and bring them all in at once. The Pet Pantry offers these services often so people can bring a reasonable amount of cats in at a time, knowing that the service will be available in the future. If the stray cats you see are missing the tip of one of their ears, you can be assured they have already been cared for by a TNR clinic.

SPRING 2015

13

COMMUNITY

Human Hero Dr. Hall (Bridgeport Animal Hospital)

MANY BIRDS CAN LIVE FOR NEARLY 100 YEARS AND MACAWS CAN LIVE FOR 80+ YEARS.

written by Samantha St.Clair

I

f you are looking for a veterinarian in the area that works on just about any pet out there, Dr. Hall may be the vet for you. With 35 years of experience, Dr. Hall knows how to treat animals of all types, from dogs and cats to exotics such as birds. Growing up on a dairy farm, Dr. Hall has always been around animals. His love of animals led him down the veterinarian career path.

“I had allergies to hay so I knew I didn't want to stay on a dairy farm,” he joked, reflecting on his first job. After his time working on a dairy farm, his career focuses were entirely on veterinary medicine.

Originally a large animal vet, Dr. Hall became interested in exotics and switched to becoming a small animal and exotics vet. While birds are his favorite species, he loves any and all animals that walk into the Bridgeport Animal Hospital.

It is a rarity today to walk into a small vet clinic but when you go to visit Dr. Hall at the Bridgeport Animal Hospital, you get just that.

“You get the consistency of seeing the same people whenever you visit,” said Dr. Hall. The staff all have experience working with all types of animals that come to the clinic - which includes just about anything aside from large animals and reptiles.

The friendly people you work with when visiting the Bridgeport Animal Hospital are perhaps one of the nicest parts of this clinic.

Another huge plus? Dr. Hall works with various rescue organizations such as the Feathered Sanctuary and Operation Scarlet. So, not only will you be treated kindly by knowledgeable staff if you go to the Bridgeport Animal Hospital, but you can also be assured that your veterinarian helps local rescue groups.

1251 Ranck Mill Road Lancaster, PA 17602 717-393-9074 vcahospitals.com/bridgeport

14 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

Dr. Hall attending to an injured swan

H E A LT H

Five Snacks to Share With Your Dog It is something many of us do. We sit down to eat and the temptation to feed our dogs a tablescrap is present.

Even if our dogs are trained to lay down when we are eating, they still stare from across the room with those impossible to resist eyes. But should you be feeding your pup anything off your plate? Well, there is a solution to your terrible temptations. The following five snacks are humans foods you can share with your dog - and they are healthy for you, too.

Bananas It is great to start your day eating a banana with your breakfast. If your pup is begging you for some banana goodness, feel free to share a piece with them but be careful, they can become addicted!

Cucumbers Cucumbers are good snacks for us to dip in some ranch to go along with other meals. While your dog can’t enjoy the ranch, they can enjoy a slice of cucumber with you (just don’t tell them you’re leaving the good part off!)

Blueberries They are tiny and delicious. You don’t have to worry about cutting up blueberries when you share them with your dog, and they make great little rewards to have your dog do tricks for.

Pumpkin Purée While this may not be the best snack to share, you can still have some with you when you eat to give to your dog. It may seem strange to us to eat plain pumpkin, but dogs often love it.

Watermelon If you are dreaming of summer, you may be thinking watermelon would be a great snack. Well, your dog thinks so too! This snack can help provide hydration for both you and your canine friend. Just remember to remove the seeds from anything you give your dog.

It is always recommended that you speak with your veterinarian before any changes to your dog’s diet, especially if your dog is known to have allergies or other troubles with foods. As with anything you feed your pet, it is always best to do so in moderation - however, you shouldn’t feel so guilty giving your pup one of these healthy (but still small) snacks off your plate!

DOMESTIC DOGS ARE OMNIVORES, THEY FEED ON A VARIETY OF FOODS INCLUDING GRAINS, VEGETABLES AND MEATS.

SPRING 2015

15

MEET THE BREED

Meet the...

Siberian Husky!

“Part clown, part snuggle bug, part athlete” MaPaw Siberian Husky Rescue written by Samantha St.Clair

16 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

t is hard not to stare when you see a Siberian Husky. They are a beautiful and unique breed, both in looks and in personality.

With a large variety of coat colors and patterns, and eyes that can range from brown to ice blue, they certainly stand out among other breeds. While this eye-catching breed may be appealing in looks, anyone considering a dog simply for beauty should take a step back.

The husky is more than that - they are athletic, intelligent, and are unlike most other dogs.

I

The Siberian Husky can be a lot of fun and can be a great family pet for someone who is able to meet their needs. They are well known for their personalities, which are often times very silly!

They are a pack animal and therefore love family settings. When properly socialized and trained they can be a friendly and wonderful addition to the family.

However, if you are looking for the normal family dog that plays fetch and is content to nap by your feet, then the husky might not be your match. Huskies are known by many as the cats of the dog world - with some good reason. The key to training a husky is finding what motivates them as they can be quite stubborn and tend to do things only when they know there is something in it for them. They also are known for being terrible fetching companions. Be expected to play fetch by yourself, as they will often do no more than watch the toy fly before wandering off to continue their business!

While they will not chase after toys, they do love to run. The Siberian Husky is an athlete and thrives in an active environment.

They were bred to work and love to do so. If you are active, or want good motivation to become active, the Siberian Husky will certainly keep you moving. However, because of this nature they can easily become bored without regular exercise. Bored dogs often result in bad dogs. To make up for a lack of stimulation the husky can become destructive. Their love for running can also get them in other troubles since they will go through extremes to get out of confinements to fill their desires. Because of this, huskies cannot be left unattended even in fenced yards, and they should never be allowed off leash when not in a secure area.

Aside from a running partner, they also make great hiking companions and can participate in various dog sports including mushing and agility. They can participate in mushing year round either with sleds, or with the equivalent on wheels when there is no snow. The best part about dog activities is they are a lot of fun and you can meet a lot of other people who have a love for dogs as well.

Athletic and intelligent, and known for their personalities, which are often times very silly!

If you are looking to become a first time husky owner, it is important to do your research. Huskies have some needs that do not fit every lifestyle. Huskies shed excessively which is not ideal for everyone. They also have a high prey drive which can be an issue with smaller animals in the home. While they do have some quirks that may not appeal to everyone, the husky has a lot of good qualities, too. They are pack animals that love family life and will bond with their family members. Their silly antics also make for great entertainment, as huskies are sure to keep their owners smiling! Take into consideration all of the positives and negatives of the breed after you have gathered more information.

Ask yourself what you are looking for in a dog and really think about it before getting any dog, as it is a lifetime commitment.

SOURCE: A special thanks to MaPaw Siberian Husky Rescue (www.sibes.com) for providing information on the breed.

Please visit their website to find out more information as well as to find resources on where you can adopt a Husky if you are considering adding one to your family!

SPRING 2015

17

S E A S O NA L

TOP SPRING FLOWERS Dangerous to Pets

The cold snowy days are now behind us and warmer temperatures are around the corner.

Our four-legged family members are “chomping at the bit” to head outside to graze and investigate.

Their curiosity will have them nibbling on anything growing.

So before you head to the closest nursery, be mindful of the type flower or plant, indoor and outdoor, you bring home. These plants can be deadly to your cat, dog or rabbit.

Day Lily or Easter Lily It is hard to believe that these spring beauties are deadly to cats. The green shoots of early growth are equally as dangerous and may cause renal failure. It is suggested to keep this flower away from your feline friend. These are harmless to dogs.

Castor Bean Plant The Castor Bean plant is also known as the Mole Bean or African Wonder plant.

It is grown as an ornamental plant as well as a crop. Ingestion of the bean or the foliage is deadly for cats and dogs. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and eventually death.

English Ivy Used frequently for decoration, the English Ivy plant is toxic for dogs and cats.

Eating the foliage may cause vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhea.

Cats in particular are drawn to the long draping vines.

Garden Hyacinth This spring bulb, along with Daffodils and Crocuses, are toxic to both cats and dogs. Eating the bulb may cause diarrhea, vomiting and trigger dermatological reactions as well.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG HAS BEEN STUNG BY A BEE. 1. REMOVE THE STINGER 2. BENADRYL 3. ICE

18 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

FUN FOCUS

If you are interested in finding out more about agility or signing up for classes, one of many training facilities in the area is Rocky Creek Dog Agility!

I

f running with your dog through an obstacle course sounds like fun, agility just might be the sport for you.

Canine agility is perhaps one of the most popular dog sports out there. It determines the athleticism and obedience of a dog, all while also testing the bond between human and companion. Agility requires teamwork between a dog and their master as they work together to run a course consisting of jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and “contact obstacles” such as the dog walk and teeter.

Perhaps one of the greatest parts about agility is that it is open to anyone willing to give it a try. While it may take a dog with some motivation, dogs of all breeds can and have competed in agility trials. From tiny Chihuahuas to hyper Border collies, any breed is a possibility in this sport. In fact, dogs from shelters also make great candidates for fun and competitive agility.

Fun activities agility written by Samantha St.Clair

While your dog may or may not become a star agility runner, there is always something to be proud of with this sport.

Whether it is claiming titles in trials or training your dog to do jumps in the backyard, agility is one of those sports that makes owning a dog and getting exercise a lot of fun. You choose how serious you wish to make agility - will you go on to get first place in hundreds of competitive runs, or will you simply make agility a fun event to spend some quality time with your dog?

Regardless of how far you choose to take it, there is nothing like spending time with your dog, and agility is one of the greatest ways to get out and have fun with your best friend.

Finding a trainer to help you get started is fairly easy! There are several trainers in the Lancaster County area that have agility classes. Once you are sure your dog is ready and would like to compete, there are also trial locations close by.

Always keep one thing in mind, though any dog sport is all about having fun!

SPRING 2015

19

RESCUE HIGHLIGHT

LANCASTER COUNTY SPCA: “They are not just shelter animals, they are our animals.” written by Samantha St.Clair

f you want a unique pet with a personality to match your family, the Lancaster County SPCA just might be the right match for you! As one of Lancaster’s adoption centers, they adopt out all kinds of animals - from dogs to cats to rabbits and reptiles; it would be hard to not find a friend there. As an open admission shelter, the LCSPCA takes in strays, owner surrenders and cruelty cases in a variety of conditions. As a result of their efforts, they have adopted out over 700 animals since they moved to their new building in September of 2014. The LCSPCA has not only helped countless animals find new homes, but has also helped owners find their pets when they get lost.

I

The LCSPCA’s mission involves helping pets get back to their owners or find new owners. However, it doesn’t stop there. They network with rescues to help get pets adopted faster. They also educate the community about the importance of adoption, pet care, and a variety of other pet related topics. The staff of the LCSPCA all share the same goal: to help animals in every and any way possible.

To make all of this possible, the LCSPCA relies on the public. One of the first ways you can help any animal shelter is, of course, to adopt a pet. If you are looking for a new pet, adoption might be a good first choice. There are many misconceptions about shelter animals and how they are damaged or have major behavioral or health problems. The reality is, most of the animals that go into any animal shelter are surrendered by their owners due to moving or allergies. Perhaps the best part about adoption is that you can easily find a perfect match since you get to meet the animals there and can learn about their personalities, which can be difficult to do in other circumstances.

Aside from adoption, the Lancaster County SPCA also invites people who perhaps can’t own pets or just love working with animals to volunteer and visit with their adoptable animals regularly. Volunteering can be fun for kids and help them learn about proper animal care and handling. Becoming a volunteer can also help people get through tough times in life by giving them a way to help their community and help homeless animals feel loved. Most importantly, volunteers help make the shelter run smoothly.

If you cannot volunteer or adopt, there are still many other ways you could help the homeless animals of Lancaster County. The LCSPCA is always in need of donations as they rely solely on the community. Donations can include money for medical funds, but can also be as simple as food or toys - every little bit helps. Another way to help, which can be as simple as the click of a button, is to share their shelter as well as their adoptable pets on social media. Who knows, you may help a pet find their perfect forever home!

P ET S E RV I C E S

Sit and Stay Below are just a few of the many businesses in the area.

This list will be updated each issue.

GROOMERS Lancaster has many highly skilled and talented groomers, so let them give your sweet, hairy four-legged family member a spa day.

A Pooch Parlor 1200 Corporate Boulevard Lancaster, PA 17601 • 717.285.5826 apoochparlor.com Bath Biscuits and More 3695 Marietta Avenue Lancaster, PA 17601 • 717.285.1337 bathbiscuitsandmore.com Best Friends Grooming Boutique 610 Rohrerstown Road Lancaster, PA 17603 • 717.464.2646 bestfriendsgrooming-supplies.com Deb the Dog Groomer 1027 Dillerville Road Lancaster, PA 17603 • 717.394.8134 debthedoggroomer.com Wags Wash & Groom Spa 146 College Avenue Lancaster, PA 17603 • 717.517.8615 wagslancaster.com

PET DAY CARE AND KENNELS

FOR CAT GROOMING USE A METAL COMB AND WORK THROUGH THE FUR FROM HEAD TO TAIL.

PET FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATIONS Most devoted pet owners will tell you that they would prefer their four-legged companions join them on out of town visits and vacations. We thought these “pet friendly” accommodations would offer comfortable lodging.

Best Western Premier Eden Resort & Suites 222 Eden Road Lancaster, PA 17601 • 717.569.6444 edenresort.com Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Lancaster 2045 Lincoln Highway E. Lancaster, PA 17602 • 717.290.7100 hawthorn.com Lancaster Host Resort and Conference Center 2300 Lincoln Highway E., Route 30 Lancaster, PA 17602 • 717.299.5500 lancasterhost.com

Accommodations Information

•

A “pet friendly hotel” is a hotel that not only allows guests to bring their cat, dog, or other small pets, but also provides items and services for your pets to make your pets and you feel more welcome and comfortable.

•

A “pet tolerant hotel” allows guests to bring their cat, dog or other small pets, but will offer minimal or no services or items for your pet.

•

Pet friendly hotels may not charge extra for pets. However, many do charge either for your entire visit, or per day that you stay in their hotel. Each hotel is different in the amount they charge.

•

While many charge non-refundable fees, there are some that charge a deposit that is refundable if your pet causes no damage during your stay.

•

Hotels will vary on which pets they will allow, some are dog friendly but not cat friendly.

The Hotel Lancaster 26 East Chestnut Street Lancaster, PA 17602 • 717.394.0900 thehotellancaster.com

When it comes to leaving our beloved pets, be it a day or a week, only the best boarding and day care establishments will do.

HORSE BOARDING

Gochenauer Kennels, Inc. 995 Fruitville Pike Lititz, PA 17543 • 717.569.6151 gochenauerkennels.com

Bridge Acres Stables, Inc. 2470 Hunsicker Road Lancaster, PA 17601 • 717.393.2702 bridgeacresstable.com

Oscar's Pet Resort 5521 Willow Road Lancaster, PA 17601 • 717.397.0726 oscarspetresort.com

Stonewood Farms 574 Trail Road N. Elizabethtown, PA 17022 • 717.367.8198 stonewoodfarmpa.com

Playful Pups Retreat Milton Grove Road N. Elizabethtown, PA 17022 • 717.689.3408 Playfulpupsretreat.com

Trevelyan Farm 1200 Penn Grant Road Lancaster, PA 17603 • 717.871.0110 trevelyanfarm.com

22 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

Pet Friendly

If you are looking for full care boarding in lush green farmland you are sure to find a good fit nearby.

Can I Crash at Your Place for a While?

The success of our rescue program relies on the number of foster homes we have available. The more foster homes we have, the more dogs we can save! We need volunteers to provide short-term in-home care for our dogs in need until they are adopted. All food and veterinary care is paid for by Pitties.Love.Peace.

Fostering can last from a week to several months.We rescue dogs from high-kill shelters, rehabilitate the sick, love and train unsocialized dogs, and maintain a 100% spay/neuter program. Our goal is to find safe and loving forever homes for all of our rescues. Make a difference in a dog’s life, become a foster today.

Foster applications available online at www.pittieslovepeace.com

SPRING 2015

23

I N F O R M AT I O N

DOG PARKS

Pet resources ADOPTION AGENCIES IN LANCASTER COUNTY Humane League of Lancaster County 2195 Lincoln Highway E. Lancaster, PA 17602 717.393.6551 humaneleague.com Lancaster C.A.R.E.S 237 Centerville Road, Suite 2 Lancaster, PA 17603 717.381.2275 lancastercares.org Lancaster County SPCA 848 South Prince Street Lancaster, PA 17603 717.917.6979 info@lancasterspca.org Pet Pantry of Lancaster County, Inc. 26 Millersville Road Lancaster, PA 17603 717.983.8878 PetPantryLC.org

EMERGENCIES SERVICES ORCA Organization for Responsible Care of Animals 401 East Orange Street Lancaster, PA 17602 717.397.8922 orcarescue.org The primary goal is to rescue any ill, or injured, or distress animal (domestic or wildlife), stray or abandoned and to provide, on the Animal-Alert Hotline.

Emergency services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to help our area animals, free of charge!!

PETS Pets Emergency Treatment Services Compassionate Emergency and Specialty Health Care for Your Pet 930 North Queen Street Lancaster, PA 17603 717.295.7387 lancasterpetemergency.com

Beau’s Dream Dog Park at Buchanan Park 901 Buchanan Avenue Lancaster, PA 17603 cityoflancasterpa.com Park was completely renovated in 2013.

The park has both a small dog and large dog area, both with splash pads, a doxi tunnel on the small dog side, and a tennis ball launcher on the large dog side.

The Overlook Dog Park Manheim Township Recreation Dept.

1241 Lititz Pike Lancaster, PA 17601 717.290.7180 ext. 3100 overlookdogpark.org Several acres in this dog park has separate fenced-in areas for large and small dogs.

HORSE RESCUES Charming Acres Rescue Inc. 717.606.4885 charmingacresstables.weebly.com Timberlake Horse Haven Pennsylvania Horse Rescue Non-Profit Organization 3009 Newark Road West Grove, PA 19390 717.224.4937 www.timberlakehorsehaven.org

LCP LANCASTER COUNTY PET lancastercountypet.com

24 LANCASTER COUNTY PET

LCP LANCASTER COUNTY PET

717.406.7811 lancastercountypet.com Advertising inquiries sales@lancastercountypet.com

Don’t miss our Summer 2015 issue!

LCP is a community resource for pet and animal-friendly information, business services and social events.

Advertisers are promoted on the LCP website and ongoing social media campaigns.

Some of our Features will include: Lancaster’s Hidden Gems: Looking for something fun to do this summer? Nothing can make summer more fun than getting to visit some farm animals! The perfect place to do this is at the Long's Park Petting Zoo. Farm Cats: We look into the roles of cats on Lancaster County farms and controlling their present populations.

Real Estate: Find out the best places to live in Lancaster County that are close to accommodations for you and your pets’ needs. From neighborhoods close to great parks, to areas near horse trails, Lancaster has many pet friendly communities.

In every edition we provide more information on Lancaster County and pet care in our regular departments from fun activities and facts to community members making a difference and much more.

Your business will reach 25,000+ readers in Lancaster County!

Complimentary copies of Lancaster County Pet will be available at the following locations: • Veterinarian Offices • Animal Shelters • Dog-friendly Hotels • Pet Boutiques and Stores • Pet Daycare Facilities • Dog Grooming Salons • Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce • Lancaster Visitors Center • Lancaster General Hospital • Grocery and Drug Stores • Horse Breeders, Trainers and Boarders • Restaurants • Medical and Health Offices • Spas and Salons