2019 Summer DogCruces Magazine

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Summer 2019

Page 14

ARTE DE KIDDOS If it’s summer, it must be time for our annual showcase of creative writing and original works of art from the students at Alma d’Arte Charter School! Check out this year’s crop of creative geniuses in our extended cover story.

Page 21

Planning for the Future

ACTion Programs for Animals is ready to expand, and needs your help to do so.

Page 10

The Vet’s View Dr. Pirtle ends an eight-year run with his heart-wrenching, final column for Dog’Cruces.

Dog‘ Cruces

Summer 2019

1

PLUS . . . When a Raw Deal is actually good for your cat...Buliwyf’s summer fashion tips...Hoarding horror in Deming...and more!!

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2

315 Telshor Dog‘,Cruces

(575) 527 - 9265 Summer 2019

(575) 522 - 0115

betterlifenaturalpetfoods.com

Eigh t is NOT Enou gh!

H

ello fellow Dog’Crucans! Can you believe this issue marks our EIGHTH anniversary? I can barely believe it, myself. Sometimes it seems we just started this project yesterday, and other times I have a hard time remembering what it was like before the magazine!

We have been so very, very lucky to have a group of contributors who consistently come up with informative and interesting dog articles (yeah, and occasionally catrelated stories, too), as well as wonderful guest authors. It is their love of animals and their strong connections to our animal community that motivate them—and I will never be able to thank them enough.

Many of our regulars have been with us from the very beginning—and one of those has been “The Vet’s View” author, Dr. Scott Pirtle, who has written his final column for Dog’Cruces. I will let his words speak for themselves, because I simply can’t do them justice. We will miss Scott terribly, and we wish him all the best.

For those of you who keep track, you are no-doubt aware that our summer/anniversay issue always features original stories and artwork from Phyllis Wright’s AP English classes at Alma d’Arte High School.

We have three lovely stories that explore the relationships between dogs and their humans, as well as some fun and funky art pieces that will undoubtedly make you smile. Our cover art is “Prancing Puppies,”

a multi-media sculpture by 12th-Grader Olivia Young. This year we also feature three works of art from Centennial High School. The kids always surprise us, and we are delighted to provide a venue for them to see their creativity published.

ACTion Programs for Animals is getting ready to expand, and our old friend Michel Meunier outlines the big plans they have for the future. Kat goes into detail about the benefits of a raw diet for your kitties, Jess describes the “joys” of babysitting his grandpuppy, and Jamie Jones spreads the word about a horrific case of animal hoarding that has sickened the pet lovers of Deming.

Life is cyclical, we all know that, and one of the things that we grown-ups have to do is learn how to deal with the ups and downs.

I have been stretched pretty thin recently, but luckily, I have been able to put things into perspective and truly appreciate all the wonderful people and aspects of my life. I think about the life-changing medical issue Dr. Pirtle is facing with grace and dignity; I think about close friends of mine who have lost kids and other loved ones; and every day I am grateful that I am not the one who has to go up and down the aisles of the ASCMV and choose which innocent animals will have to die on any given day.

And I know my life is damn good.

my dogs always greet me as though they haven’t seen me for a week! It’s easy, sometimes, to lose sight of what is truly important and to take the little moments of everyday joy for granted. Don’t. Life is far too short to let the bad days get in the way of living.

And to all of our loyal readers...how can I tell you how much you mean to this magazine? I know some of you—like some of our contributors—have been with us since the very first issue of Dog’Cruces. I guess I shouldn’t be surprised by the loyaly and devotion of dog-lovers, but, still, it overfills my heart to know you are out there and that you appreciate all the hard work that goes into each issue of the magazine.

Thank you, thank you, a thousand times thank you!

Until next time, my friends.

Vic Villalobos Mayor of Dog’Cruces

Write to us at: Dog’Cruces Magazine 151 S. Solano, Suite E Las Cruces, NM 88001 or email us at : Vic@DogCruces.com

My family stays strong by my side, and

Dog‘Cruces Magazine

151 S. Solano • Suite E • Las Cruces, NM 88001

www.

575-523-8511

.com Local Resources for: Health, Nutrition, Adoption, Lost & Found, Events Log on & join & Furry Fun! the community today!

Publishers Sonya Ruiz, Vic Villalobos Managing Editor/Mayor of Dog’Cruces Vic Villalobos Senior Editors Charissa Paskowski, Jenifer Woods Contributing Editor Phyllis Wright, Linda Connell Graphic Artists John Connell, Jenifer Woods Advertising Chris DiMora, Patrick Montelongo, Charissa Paskowski, Wayne Sinclair, Vic Villalobos Contributors Jacqueline Avila, Delores T. Craig, DVM, Margaret Dubbin, Jamie Jones, Kat Lacy, Michel Meunier, Dr. Scott Pirtle, Samantha Tavizon, Wohali Stevenson, Jess Williams

Dog‘,Cruces

Summer 2019

3

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Dog‘,Cruces

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Friendly FriendlyRestaurant Restaurant listed listed here, here, email email info@dogcruces.com info@dogcruces.com 5 Dog‘,Cruces Summer 2019

ASCMV Adoption Events

Cherished K9 All-Breed Rescue Adoption Events

Recurring & Ongoing Events SUMMER 2019 Safe Haven Adoption Promotion with Radio NM Every Wednesday, July 24th - October 17th Radio NM is a local radio program audio stream. SHAS is a weekly contributor to the show and brings pets to the Round Table show that are available for adoption at 6890 Eagle Road. For more information, contact SHAS at 575-805-5338.

For a complete calendar of events, visit:

DogCruces.com List is updated as events are announced.

SnapNewMexico.org

Dog‘,Cruces

Summer 2019

991 W. Amador Ave., time TBD. Have your pet’s microchip checked, make sure information is up-to-date and/or get your pet microchipped. For more information and time call 575-523-8790 or check for updates on our Facebook page Horse ‘N’ Hound Feed and Supply.

D.H. Lescombes (formerly St. Clair Winery & Bistro), 1720 Avenida de Mesilla, on the lawn and outside patio. Well-behaved, leashed dogs welcome. Music, games and prizes, including a hippie costume contest for the pooches. (People are welcome to dress in theme as well!) Food service and bar on the

575-524-9265

6

Thursday, August 15th

Check The Chip Day at Horse ‘N’ Hound

Thursday, August 1st Thursday, September 5th Thursday, October 5th Rudy’s Country Store and BBQ, 1020 N. Telshor Blvd., from 4pm-7pm. Leashed and well-behaved dogs welcome on the patio. For more info, call 575-805-5338.

Open Tuesday – Friday 11am – 3pm

Miles de animals son condenados a murir o sufrir innecesariamente en el condado de Doña Ana cada año!

Usted puede ayudarnos a resolver este problema comunitario!

DOGust Universal Birthday for rescued/shelter animals whose birthdays are unknown.

Wednesday, August 21st

(across from Peddler’s Pavilion)

Thousands of animals are put to death or suffer unnecessarily in Doña Ana County each year!

You can help us solve this community problem!

Happy DOGust!

Rudy’s To The Rescue!

SHAS Adoption Promotion

Ste. 103 • Las Cruces

Bajo costa de esterilización para mascotas de hogares de bajos recursos.

Wednesday, August 1st

Monday, August 5th Monday, August 19th Monday, September 9th Monday, September 23rd Monday, October 7th Monday, October 21st 2405 W. Picacho (across from Pedler’s Pavilion). Call 575-524-9265 to register.

2405 W. Picacho

Low cost spay/neuter surgery for pets of low income households.

AUGUST

SNAP Spay/Neuter Clinics

Safe Haven Adoption Events at PetSmart Saturday, July 27th Saturday, August 24th Saturday, September 28th PetSmart, 2200 E. Lohman (next to Old Navy) from 10:30am to 2:30pm.

Every Saturday PetCo, 3050 E. Lohman (by Ross) and the Downtown Farmer’s and Crafts Market from 9am-1pm.

Saturday, July 20th Saturday, August 3rd Saturday, August 17th Saturday, September 7th Saturday, September 21st Saturday, October 5th Saturday, October 19th Pets Barn, 1600 S. Valley Dr. Las Cruces.

For more information and to see some of the adoptable pets go to www.cherishedk-9.com or call 575-496-6085.

FIX YOUR PETS! Please call SNAP for information on how to qualify.

Esterilizar o castrar a sus mascotas!

Yappy Hour—Woofstock

40

$

per dog (perro)

Spay & Neuter Action Program (SNAP)

CASH ONLY

(Sólo en efectivo)

30

$

per cat (gato)

lawn, along with free Caliche’s sundaes and poochie cones, sponsored by Vescovo Toyota. $5 donation at the door, benefits SNAP and the Doña Ana County Humane Society.

Call 575-642-2648 for more information.

Saturday, August 24th

Power of the Purse Auction Fundraiser for Cherished K9 & Turning Point of Las Cruces 1395 Snow Rd, auction from 2pm-4pm. Donate new and gently-used purses at Turning Point, 3201 S. Main St., Suite C or call a host for details about donating. RSVP: Soledad Brozek (s.brozek@icloud.com) 480-2631928, Teresita Corral (Contersita4@gmail. com) 575-640-2442, or Jo Renda (JoRenda@comcast.net) 816-210-0076.

Tuesday, August 28th

for you and your furry friends. Whether you want to see a bomb-sniffing dog in action, are thinking about beginning agility classes, need a pet-sitting service, are interested in the newest pet products, or just want to play carnival games with your dog, the Pet Expo is the one place where all this—and so much more—is avaible for you to explore, learn, ask questions, and have fun! For information go to www.dogcrucespetexpo.com.

Remember Me Thursday

OCTOBER

D.H. Lescombes (formerly St. Clair Winery & Bistro), 1720 Avenida de Mesilla, on the lawn and outside patio. Well-behaved, leashed dogs welcome. Music, games and prizes, including a sports uniform costume contest for the pooches. (People are welcome to dress in theme as well!) Food service and bar on the lawn, along with free Caliche’s sundaes and poochie cones, sponsored by the Sisbarro Dealerships. $5 donation at the door, benefits SNAP and the Doña Ana County Humane Society. Call 575-642-2648 for more information.

3rd Annual Dog’Cruces Pet Expo

Thursday, September 26th

Wednesday, September 18th

SHAS Spay/Neuter Clinic

This is a special day to remember and honor of all our pets with fur, feathers or fins to whom we have said farewell.

Las Cruces Convention Center, from 10am5pm each day. Tickets are $5/person/day, ages 5 and older. Bring your well-behaved, leashed pet and discover what types of services and products are available in our area

Picacho Mountain Festival from 9am-4pm.

Call 575-805-5338 for more information.

Spay and Neuter Clinic to be held all day.

For more information call 575-805-5338 and/or shaspets.com

Friday, September 13th & Saturday, September 14th

Yappy Hour—Sports Night!

Saturday, September 14th Sunday, September 15th

SHAS Adoption & Information Event

An international social media awareness day calling attention to the millions of adoptable pets in shelters who are awaiting the loves of their lives. It also is an opportunity to remember those companion animals who never got a second chance. Share your rescued pet using #RememberMeThursday.

Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day

SEPTEMBER

Saturday, September 21st

Wednesday, October 16th

Yappy Hour—Halloween D.H. Lescombes (formerly St. Clair Winery & Bistro), 1720 Avenida de Mesilla, on the lawn and outside patio. This is the final Yappy Hour of the year! Well-behaved, leashed dogs welcome. Music, games and prizes, including a Halloween costume contest for the pooches. (People are welcome to dress in theme as well!) Food service and bar on the lawn, along with free Caliche’s sundaes and poochie cones, sponsored by Forever Firends. $5 donation at the door, benefits SNAP and the Doña Ana County Humane Society. Call 575-642-2648 for more information.

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Summer 2019

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Mail a check to: Cherished K-9 All Breed Rescue P.O. Box 13385, Las Cruces, NM 88013 or donate online today: www.cherishedk-9.com/donate.html

8

Dog‘,Cruces

Summer 2019

PETS

, Do g Cruces of

A Happy

TAIL!

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Summer 2019

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Slowly Progressing L ooking back at the last couple of articles I’ve written for Dog’Cruces, I realize I’ve been very philosophical. I haven’t offered anything of veterinary value at all. I hope you will forgive me for departing from the medical information I was tasked with providing so many years ago when Vic first asked me to write for this magazine.

It was roughly eight years ago when the first subtle symptoms began to manifest themselves.

The slightest twitch in my right index finger.

Very subtle. Very intermittent. Slowly, over the next few weeks and months, the twitch became more severe. And more frequent.

Ignoring it became more difficult, but I told myself it was nothing. No big deal. Then came the more pronounced muscle spasms across my right forearm. An entire band of muscle that bounced and twitched involuntarily out of nowhere. Then, for hours, it was quiet— but it always returned. And slowly, ever so slowly, it got worse. Of course, a consultation with “Dr. Google” followed, and I discovered lots of possible explanations for these crazy symptoms.

But there, buried within all the possibilities, something else jumped out at me as I read through the symptoms of one specific disorder.

My handwriting had become atrocious over the previous few months. My relatively clean and clear print had become small and unintelligible at times. I’d noticed it myself, still, nobody else had mentioned any difficulty reading my notes and medical records. And yet, in that moment, I knew. Something inside me told me exactly what was going on. I made an appointment with a neurologist.

The neurologist wouldn’t confirm my selfdiagnosed condition—at least, not without a battery of blood tests, radiographs, and, finally, an MRI of my brain. After ruling out myriad other possibilities, he still could not confirm the suspicions I had deep inside. “Parkinson’s disease,” he said, “has many different symptoms.

Tremors are only one of the signs necessary for diagnosis of the disease. Although they are the most common symptom, we need other signs in order to have a presumptive diagnosis. There is no specific test that will confirm your symptoms are due to Parkinson’s disease (PD). We will follow you over time, and if you develop other symptoms, then we will have an answer.”

10

Dog‘,Cruces

Summer 2019

That wasn’t quite the explanation I was looking for. I wanted an answer sooner rather than later. A visit to a Movement Disorders specialist at The Mayo Clinic a few months later helped somewhat, but still sounded vague. “I’m not diagnosing you with Parkinson’s disease at this point, but I believe that is what you have” this doctor said. I knew it in my heart already. I’m a healthy guy. I eat healthy. Exercise regularly.

I go the doctor regularly. No significant health problems at all. Good blood pressure. No heart issues. Great bloodwork. No diabetes. None of the issues so many friends my age were dealing with. I’d taken all the precautions to avoid the common health issues most people in their fifties start to worry about. Why me? How? I answered my own question after some deep contemplation. We’re all going to get “something.” This was my thing. Parkinson’s disease.

Seriously? Now what?

I’m a doctor, so I hit the research. I honestly didn’t know very much about PD other than it causes tremors in old people. I was 52. That’s not old—is it? I had so much to learn.

I read books and articles. I consulted online support groups and associations dedicated to the condition. I read Michael J. Fox’s books about his journey with Parkinson’s disease. So many similar feelings. So poignant. He does a wonderful job expressing the emotions and describing the physical symptoms. It hit me hard, right in the gut. And then it sank in. I have a “progressive neurological disease.” I could add “slowly” to the beginning of that description, because for most people that have it, this is a slowly-progressing disease. But then again, it is never the same for any two people.

The bottom line for me was understanding that I have a medical condition that is going to get worse, no matter what. Yes, there are many medications that can improve the symptoms.

Yes, there is ongoing research to find a cure, or at least to find better ways to deal with the symptoms. But at the end of the day, here I am, still dependent on replacing the brain chemical that is deficient in PD: dopamine. It is the neurotransmitter made in a part of my brain called the substantia nigra, and it was not present in adequate amounts. So I now take pills— lots of pills, all day long, to replace the missing chemical. And oh what a magic chemical it is! The

, The Vet s View by

Dr. Scott Pirtle, DVM

Toward the Exit difference in how I feel when the medication is on board and working is worlds apart from my “off” periods when the medication isn’t working and the motor fluctuations take over.

I won’t bore you with more details about the disease. There is plenty of information out there if you want to educate yourself. Suffice it to say that I don’t see myself as the face of Parkinson’s disease. I’m too young. Too fit. Too strong. Too healthy. But the reality is that I’m not. One day at a time, slowly over the years, PD has been stealing from me. Like a mouse stealing one kernal of corn every night from a bag of grain.

It takes time­— looking back and using perspective—to understand that today I am worse than I was a year ago. Or a month ago. Or even last week.

Slowly progressive. As in always going downhill. Always getting worse. Symptoms may improve depending on my medications. But they always return. The deterioration marches on. Slowly. Progressively.

It took a while—several years in fact—for me to understand that my career as a veterinarian was not going to continue the way it had been.

My future was unclear, and this made my career very unclear as well. How long will I be able to work? At what level? What do I do?

I began to formulate plans and prioritize things.

It’s not like I thought I would never retire, but I guess I assumed I’d just slow down at some point down the road and work a little whenever I wanted. I love my job, and I probably had some notion that I’d be still be bumping around the clinic when I was well into my seventies. My medical condition forced me to view my future in a very different light. I had to get my life in order. Vague plans were not going to work—I needed something solid and specific. And so I moved forward until I arrived at the place I am today.

The details aren’t important for me to share here. But I do want people to know that every decision I made regarding this was made with more than just myself in mind. More than just my wife and my family. At every turn I was faced with the fact that this decision would affect so many other people. My family, the doctors and staff at the clinic, and all of the

wonderful clients and pets that have become a part of my life over the past 33 years. More than a year of contemplation and agonizing went into the decision I made to sell the clinic and implement a plan to slow down. This was ultimately what I had to do in order to protect my health and secure the future for my wife and me. It has offered me the best opportunity to take care of myself while continuing to work part-time. It remains to be seen just how long I will be able to keep this up. As of now, I’m feeling the best I have in quite some time. My medications have been carefully adjusted by my doctors, and my symptoms are controlled fairly well. Reducing stress and cutting back on my hours have made a huge difference. It has kept me from burning up all my energy at work and having nothing left at the end of the day.

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My doctor says he wants to help me keep doing the things I want to do for as long as possible.

That’s what I want, too. So I’m hoping that includes hanging around this place for a few more years. But I’ve been through this cycle already.

Symptoms worsen. Adding a new medication will allow me to feel better for a while. Then, slowly, the symptoms worsen again. Time to add a new drug or to increase the dosage of something I’m already on. Maybe increase the frequency with which I take it. I’m better for a while—and then I’m not. That slowly progressive thing keeps rearing its ugly head.

So I know not to set any of my plans in concrete. I will need to be flexible and adaptable. I will try to keep my attitude positive and enjoy life. “I’m a lucky man,” as Michael J. Fox would say. These are the kinds of things that can clarify what is most important in life. I’m not the first person to face an unexpected health crisis.

I know so many of you have faced far worse.

But we all take our own journeys and make our own choices.

So I’ll add a “goodbye to this column” as one of my choices as well. I want to thank Vic and all of the wonderful people that contribute in one way or another to Dog’Cruces. It’s been an absolute pleasure to work with all of you.

And deepest gratitude to all the dogs and dogloving people I’ve had the genuine pleasure of meeting and knowing over the years. I’m not quite gone yet. But I do think it’s time to start heading toward the exit sign.

382 S. Walnut St. Las Cruces, NM

575-526-4048

M-F 9-5:30 • Sat 10-3

www.organmountainphotos.com Dog‘,Cruces

Summer 2019

11

Spillin’ TEA Grandpups the

about the

A

little more than a year ago, my son’s best friend, Jeffrey, convinced himself and my son that they should each buy a Weimaraner from a litter up in Albuquerque. My son named his dog Tea, which is pronounced like the Spanish word for aunt.

by

Jess Williams

that most of the screen has been violently torn from the frame. It has Weimaraner written all over it.

Adjacent to the shredded screen are two heavy chains and padlocks hanging from the metal railing. Bravely, I left them out there, but by the time this is published I fully expect them to have been rended into small bits of scrap steel that will be suitable for nothing even remotely resembling what heavy chains and padlocks would normally be used for.

Tea is always up for a challenge.

“Weimaraner” is apparently the German word for “wanton destruction.” I say this not because I have studied German, but because when my son goes out of town, I am charged with keeping Tea in my back yard, where she cavorts with my aging Tea is very proud of her work. canines, and when she She nearly always leaves it out tires them out, she finds things to rip to shreds. on display for me to find,

I vaguely remember our family having a Weimaraner when I was a kid. His name was and her golden eyes sparkle with Heinrich. (We had no Seat cushions from the lawn furniture are pride as she senses her power over way to know, Senator.

My apologies.) I do not high on her list of state my blood pressure. remember Heinrich enemies that must be being as destructive as destroyed at all costs, Tea is, but perhaps the often under cover of breed has evolved in some sinister way that night. Occasionally, however, broad daylight eludes me. attacks are warranted.

I have a pond in my backyard, and Tea has even been known to wade in there and pluck out a pod of felonious water hyacinth that — in her mind—has committed some sort of heinous freshwater offense that warrants the pod, leaves and roots to be torn to bits on the back patio.

Tea is very proud of her work. She nearly always leaves it out on display for me to find, and her golden eyes sparkle with pride as she senses her power over my blood pressure.

Whether Charissa and Vic will use the photo I have attached with this submission is up to them, but in case they do not, I’ll describe it.

I recently came home from a nice lunch to find Tea and my two outdoor dogs napping in the shade of the porch. In the photo, just above where Tea is resting her sweet head, you can clearly discern that part of my screen door has been modified for some reason, in

12 Dog‘,Cruces

Summer 2019

aged him. Because Toby and Gizmo get along, and because I don’t fear that Gizmo will eat my pool table or try to eviscerate my couch, he gets to stay inside while the kids are out of town.

Toby and Gizmo make great sport out of seeing how well my knees work. They do this by gleefully going around the house to make sure all the critical places are properly marked. They look greatly confused (and vaguely offended) when I go around scrubbing their hard drives and relegating their p-mail correspondences to the trash bin.

I love my kids, and I even love their dogs.

I tell you this, because if you come visit me during the summer and you get bitten by a mosquito, you can blame Tea for the Warhollike screen art that wafts gracefully in the evening breeze, extending a warm welcome to the flying insect population of central Las Cruces. If we go out on the back patio together, expect to sit on hard chairs.

Jess Williams served on the Board of DirecWhen she is not is Destructo Mode, Tea is tors of the Animal Services Center of the a pretty good dog. She obeys my son and Mesilla Valley from 2010 through 2018. daughter-in-law, and she’s protective of my When he retired, the ASCMV staff gave him granddaughter. She wants badly to play with a nice memento of his service. Tea is not Toby, but Toby— who has no idea he weighs allowed near it. six pounds—is having none of it. He snarls and Tea rests peacefully, knowing she has made snaps at all 60 pounds of her, Grandpa Jess’ screen door ironic. which routinely makes her cower and pee a little.

All of which somehow brings us to Gizmo, who is my son’s other dog—a Yorkie like Toby, but grey all over.

I believe Tea has

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“Untitled” Acrylic

“Tied to the Stars”

by Jake Lopez

Wood and String

by Bailey Martinez 12th Grade

“Serene” Digital Painting

by Jacqueline Avila 12th Grade

“Dust Doggie”

“Untitled”

14 Dog‘,Cruces

Air Dr y Clay

rrez

by Yaraldthi L. Gutie Summer 2019 12 Grade

Mixed Media pien

by Cheyenne Sa

12th Grade

Maybe This Time

by Samantha Tavizon, 11th Grade

“C’mon, Cooper. It’s okay! She just wants to play—see?”

I brought my hand up to try to wave Cooper over to my little sister, who was jumping around excitedly and waving one of the many toys we had recently bought for him that he had yet to touch.

Cooper lowered his head and backed away, fear evident in his eyes. He scrambled away to his safe haven underneath the dining table, his head just barely poking out from behind one of the legs of the chairs.

I sighed. “Sorry, Lily. Maybe next time he’ll wanna play, all right? He’s just tired.”

“You always say that,” my sister moaned, turning around and heading to her room. She had thrown the dog toy back in the hamper where all of Cooper’s other toys languished before shutting her door, which caused an old sticker of her favorite Disney princess to fall to the floor. I frowned and slowly made my way toward the dining table, kneeling just a few feet away from where Cooper was crouched. I could see him trembling.

“I know you’re scared, but you don’t have to be. We’re gonna take good care of you, Cooper. I promise, boy.” I lingered there just a little longer, watching Cooper shivering and tried not to let my mind wander to what terrible things he must’ve gone through to be afraid to experience happiness. A single drop of water fell on the tile beneath me— guess I didn’t try quite hard enough to avoid thinking about Cooper’s prior life. I wiped at my eyes and was about to stand back up when I felt a paw nudge at my knee.

There was Cooper at my feet. His eyes were sad, and he was still visibly trembling. I blinked several times, hoping he was really there, and not just a mirage caused by my tears. Cooper was really there, his paw tapping at my knee gently while he whined softly. This was the closest Cooper had been to me since we got him from the shelter weeks ago. The first time his paws touched the floor of the house, he immediately ran to the dining table. We even had to put his food and water there, as well as a mat for him to use as a restroom because he wouldn’t leave that spot for anything.

I lifted my hand and gently stroked his head, but before I could do it again, Cooper scurried back to his spot beneath the table.

This sounds crazy, I know, but I thought maybe he was comforting me, and letting me know he was going to be all right in his own time. I smiled at Cooper. “Thank you, boy.” Perhaps it was the start of something good.

Even now, on Lily’s birthday, I had not been able to get Cooper to play with her, though he had moved closer and closer each time. I could tell he liked Lily and wanted to interact with her, but when one of them crossed the invisible safety barrier, Cooper retreated to his spot. I thought maybe the most we could hope for was a tail wag, and, honestly, I couldn’t be upset with that. I could tell he was trying, and if this was his best, I would gladly accept it. I knew Lily didn’t understand why Cooper wasn’t like her friends’ dogs. All I could tell her was that all dogs are different.

We had just finished eating cake, and I let her wander off to the backyard with her friends until it started to get dark. After her friends left, we sat on the couch watching Finding Nemo, her favorite movie, until she had to go to bed. “Do you wanna know what I wished for?” Lily whispered.

I turned to look at her and shook my head, “It won’t come true if you say it outloud.” She pouted and didn’t say any more, turning back to the movie.“All right kiddo, off to bed you go.”

Lily was yawning as we walked to her room, and when she got into bed, she sat up. “Do you think birthday wishes actually come true?” I wasn’t quite sure how to answer her.

I walked over and knelt by her bedside, “I think if you believe enough...they will.”

“I hope mine does,” Lily replied, lying down and pulling up her frilly pink covers. She smiled before turning over on her side.

“Me, too.”

I kissed her head and turned off the light, walking back out to the living room to watch TV for a bit longer.

A couple of hours later I turned off the TV to get ready for bed. I sighed as I walked over to Lily’s room and flicked on the light, checking to see that she was asleep. She wasn’t alone.

There, curled up in the curve of Lily’s legs, was Cooper.

Nearly breathless, I let out something between a laugh and a sigh of disbelief. It was the first time Cooper had ever slept anywhere besides under the table—and I knew Cooper was there to grant Lily’s birthday wish. Cooper moved his head slightly to look at me, and I could swear his eyes were sparkling.

Smiling uncontrollably, I whispered, “Thanks, boy,” and turned off the light.

Dog‘,Cruces

Summer 2019

15

Hero

by Wohali Stevenson, 12th Grade Hi, my name is John Grayshield. I am Ally’s father, and Charlie is our dog. Charlie is the reason we are here today. First, I would like to thank everyone for coming to this amazing celebration. I would like to share a quotation from Mary Shelly that reads “Nothing is so painful to the mind as a great and sudden change.” Change is what started it all. My daughter Ally had just turned nine when she slowly began to lose her eyesight. When she was 11, she was diagnosed with Usher syndrome. For those of you who are unaware of this disease, it causes progressive degeneration of the retina, causing you to slowly become blind. By the time my daughter turned 14, she had completely lost her vision. Ally had always been in love with the arts—singing, dancing, painting—all of it. After her vision was gone, she quit the arts altogether, rarely even leaving her room.

Watching my little girl retreat into her shell devastated me! I was desperately looking for hope. I had been volunteering at the Conway Animal Shelter for about three years, and I was always astonished by the way some people treated their animals: throwing pets out of their lives as if they were shirts they outgrew. The day I remember most vividly is January 30, 2009, when a family dropped off a sick black Lab about to give birth. She had seven pups, and all of them died— all except Charlie. Charlie was the smallest pup and was in perfect health.

Now, I’m sure everyone here has heard the quotation from Alexander Graham Bell, “When one door closes, another one opens; but we often look so long and regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us.” And that is exactly what was happening in our lives. Ally was suffering from severe depression because of losing her eyesight. That was one door closing. Little did I know I was watching another door open.

Two months after little Charlie was born, I heard about a children’s hospital adopting dogs for the children and decided to take my daughter to the shelter to pick a dog. At that time Charlie was getting a bath, and as soon as that metal door opened with Ally standing right behind, Charlie leaped out of the soaking tub, splashing water everywhere, and ran straight to Ally. This was the first dog she had touched since she had been diagnosed. As her hands went through his soapy back, she turned to me, and at that moment, I knew Charlie was the dog we were bringing home. I never truly understood the bond between a dog and a person. I mean, I saw my friends get dogs from their families, but I had never had one, myself, until Charlie. It was truly astonishing the effect Charlie had in Ally’s life. She started going out more, laughing more, and I got a front row seat to this change.

The light that was in her had been dimming, and as a parent it had been truly heartbreaking to witness. But when Charlie came into our lives, I could see that spark in her again.

On July 7, 2016, Ally and Charlie went out for their daily walk. As they walked past the corner, Ally heard singing echoing through the street. As soon as Charlie heard it, he bolted like a rocket, dragging Ally down the street with me chasing after them. Then he jolted to a stop, and after I stopped calling his name, I looked around, and we were at a music studio called the Blue Wolf Music Box. That was the day Ally started singing again. She and Charlie have walked to that studio every day since.

Everyone with children who have special needs knows that special education schools are not cheap. Ally had been going to Tennessee School for the Blind since she had been diagnosed. I had spent her entire college fund on this school so she could have the best start possible to her education. One of my biggest concerns, as a parent, was how I was going to get my baby girl to college. Charlie made this possible. Ally got a scholarship to the Juilliard School for her vocal talent. She will be attending Juilliard next fall. I am so elated that my daughter has this opportunity, and it would have never been possible without Charlie.

I believe especially in today’s world we take our dogs for granted. Here is a fun fact— when dogs look at their owners, they experience a burst of oxytocin, otherwise known as the “love hormone.” Your dog is literally in love with you. Working at the dog shelter really proved to me that dogs need to be loved right back. When I think of family, I think of Ally, Charlie, and me. He is a big part of our family and is very deserving of this award. So without further ado, may I present the Service Hero Dog Award to my amazing dog— and Ally’s best friend—Charlie Grayshield!

16 Dog‘,Cruces

Summer 2019

Rapture

by Jacqueline Avila, 12th Grade The night was empty and silent. The city lights flickered and crackled, and the trash in the streets flew up with the breeze of the cold night air. A medium black and white mongrel named Job walked the empty city sidewalks sniffing around for food. As people passed, they glared at him with disgust, completely unaware that what was truly disgusting was their collective conscience—lack of sympathy. Job’s stomach growled as he continued to walk. The growl was louder than the night and the wind itself, louder than the cars that sped down the cracked concrete roads, and louder than the heavy rain that began to pour down and splash as it hit the asphalt.

As the dog passed a dimly lit alley, a rotten scent caught his nose—and to him, rotten equals food! He jerked around and ran into the alley and began to sniff, sniff, sniff. He came across an indistinguishable delicacy. Its smell was so pungent, it wouldn’t even wash away with the rain. The unrecognizable, moldy exterior melted in the downpour. Job hesitated to eat because of the rancid smell, but he had no other option. He leaned forward to eat his dinner, but the loud rumbling sound of thunder scared him away. He tried again, but as he leaned forward, he saw a tall, oddly-shaped figure standing in the dark, deep within the alley.

Job began to growl as the figure approached him. And suddenly, the figure moved from five feet away to half a foot away. Job was frightened by the strange being and rushed out the alley—leaving his meal behind. He continued to run down the empty streets of the city until he believed he had lost the thing following him. He seemed to have forgetten about the figure and was saddened to have lost his dinner. He walked the streets sniffing around for more food, but he could not find anything. He sat in the rain, his untamed fur drenched, and his stomach still growling.

Suddenly he felt a cold grasp. The creature had caught up to him—but Job broke free from the long, cold, clammy fingers and sprinted into the darkest part of the city — trying desperately to hide from the creature following him. His escape was over when his head hit something sitting in the dark. The dark was suddenly illuminated with flickering lights; lights like bright, colorful orbs floating right in front of his face. The lights became brighter and began to flash over and over— overwhelming Job’s senses. His vision was dazed, and he couldn’t quite see what was happening around him. A strong wind began to blow in a circular motion, and once again he felt those long, cold fingers take hold of him. This time they were grasping his entire body.

Suddenly, the orbs of light rose until they were above Job and the creature. Then, all at once, the lights stopped flickering, and a giant conical spectrum of white florescent light shone on both of them. The creature was now visible, and it was nothing like Job had ever seen. The creature’s body was long, slim and covered in sticky green skin. Its head was disproportionate to its body and had slanted, oval-shaped dark black eyes and a small mouth. The dog and the extraterrestrial creature begin to hover, floating up into a dark hole in the enormous metal disc floating in the night sky. The flying disc’s interior was metallic, sleek and clean. Job began to whimper and tried to hide himself, but there was no corner to hide in, and he was surrounded by the tall strange figures who had abducted him. The creature simply stood in front of Job and looked at him, waiting for him to calm down.

Other beings began to set up a table full of elegant food, and Job’s eyes glistened at the sight of it; his stomach began to grumble and churn. The smell was fresh and wonderful. The food looked warm and not slimy at all. Job’s mouth watered but his eyes droppped down, knowing that the food isn’t for him. Then...a creature approached him gently with a platter full of all the delicious food. He sat the platter right in front of Job and walked away. Job sniffed around the food, wondering if this was a trick or a dream. After some serious consideration, he dug in and chewed and chewed and chewed until his stomach was full.

Slowly, Job began to trust the aliens. He realized they weren’t like the beings he was used to; the extraterrestrial beings treated him well; they were affectionate and kind—and he ended up staying with them. The creatures learned about human behavior from Job’s memories, but most importantly, they learned what it is to love.

Dog‘,Cruces

Summer 2019

17

Centennial High School lost a student in February from a severe reaction to the flu. His name was Connor Williams, and he was an absolutely extraordinary human being. His friends organized a Memorial Art Exhibition and Silent Auction. One of the Drawing and Painting students created a graphite drawing that was displayed at the memorial exhibition celebrating Conner’s life and character. After the exhibition, the work was given to his parents.

The Centennial Chapter of the National Art Honor Society is doing the ForgetMe-Not Button Project. The students took the letters from his name and made a small work of art about one of his many wonderful personality traits.

This work of art is from one of the Ls in his last name and stands for Loyal. The two dogs are Connor’s.

“Conner Williams” Graphite

“Loyal”

by Ashley Berard 10th Grade

Ink & Watercolor

by Isabella Flores 10th Grade

“Untitled”

ceramic la

by Brianna Bare HS l nia en nt Ce

aven”

18 Dog‘,Cruces

“All Dogs Go to He y

Summer 2019

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Workin ,’ Like a Dog APA’s Future at a Crossroads

I

founded ACTion Programs for Animals (APA) almost 10 years ago, in September 2009. At that time, in our area and even across the United States, the concept of “No Kill” animal shelters was foreign. I was probably the earliest “No Kill” advocate here and decided to set out with like-minded advocates to found an organization to champion and model “No Kill” programs and services that would save more lives here in the Mesilla Valley. Ten years ago, our local shelter was killing more than 80% of the animals that entered its facility. Today, that statistic has been reversed in our community, and there are now thousands of “No Kill” shelters across the U.S.—including El Paso County, where I was born and raised. I can’t describe how happy this makes me!

For the first seven years, APA operated like most small non-profits, with a few dedicated volunteers working, literally, from sun up ‘til late at night to get everything done—while financing many of our expenses personally. We started with a pet food bank and outreach, and by 2012 we were pulling animals out of the Animal Services Center (ASCMV) in order to give them a second chance to find a loving home. We created a network of foster homes and conducted offsite adoption events every weekend.

In March 2014, we rented a former vet’s office at 800 W. Picacho and opened our first adoption center. We are still there today. This building gave us the capacity to save even more lives—but it also added more to our workload. Suddenly, we had animals to care for 24/7 because we could keep our adoptable big dogs, cats, and kittens there. We make the most of our current space, but the building is small, cramped and falling apart.

To date, we have rescued more than 4300 animals in our community, most of which we have taken from the ASCMV—which, by the way, is working toward becoming a “No Kill” facility, too. At APA, we are not a breed-specific rescue, so we try to take the animals other groups do not. We work well with these other groups that are doing their own part in our community’s lifesaving mission.

In 2016, we took over the prison dog training program in partnership with the Southern New Mexico Correctional Facility. Prisoners and Animals Working Toward Success (PAWS) is a wonderful program made possible by a local trainer who donates his time and expertise to create excellent dog handlers/trainers from the specially-selected inmates at the prison. They have helped us train and adopt more than 130 dogs so far! Now people are asking to adopt PAWS grads because they are such great dogs. We also offer PAWsitive training classes so people can learn how to train their dogs the PAWS way. This year, we hope to expand the prison program to include training service dogs for PTSD veterans. We will need a lot of support for this and a whole new group of volunteers.

This brings us to today. APA is turning 10 years old in September…YAY! But, growing up always brings some growing pains—we are no longer the small organization that can run on the efforts and pocketbooks of a few volunteers who were nearly working themselves into the grave. We must move forward toward operating like the small (non-profit) business we are by hiring some paid staff, and expanding our roster of great foster families and volunteers. We are also looking to develop our board of directors into a working set of professionals who can help us reach our goals.

such as those we find ourselves in at this time. In the meantime, we are having thrift sales at our warehouse every weekend on Saturdays and Sundays from 7 to 11 a.m. during these hot months.

We are at a crossroads. We have to go big, or go home! But the latter is NOT an option—we don’t want to close down and dissolve. We want to continue to do what we are doing and expand and improve so we can be here for decades to come.

Please help support us! Get involved in some way, and please donate on our website: ActionProgramsForAnimals.com. And if you can join our board, help with fundraising events, or help us with our capital campaign for our new building, we especially need your help!! Contact us at 575644-0505 (info line), 575-571-4654 (adoption center) or stop by at 800 W. Picacho any Tuesday or Thursday 11 to 4 or Saturday 11 to 2.

Michel Meunier is Founder and Executive Director of ACTion Programs for Animals.

We have an empty warehouse at 1150 E. Las Cruces Avenue and City-approved plans to build a new adoption center that will help us do even more for the animals—but now we need to raise the funds to make it a reality. We are working on opening a Second Chance Thrift Store to provide steady income so we can even out the lean times,

Concept drawing for ACTion Programs for Animals’ new adoption facility and thrift store.

The designs for the warehouse at 1150 E. Las Cruces Avenue have been approved. All that remains now is raising the funds to bring this project to life.

APA has weekend thrift sales at the warehouse every Saturday and Sunday from 7 to 11 am.

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The Alternative View

by Delores T. Craig. DVM

East vs. West: A Matter of Perspective?

T

here is a traditional Chinese saying: “If there is free flow (of Qi and Blood), there is no pain. If there is pain, there is no free flow.” In the balanced body, Qi and Blood move together.

If there is an obstruction in the movement of Qi or Blood within the channels or organs, pain is one of the side effects. This syndrome is called Bi Syndrome or Painful Obstruction.

Traditional Chinese Medicine further categorizes the type of pain. Human patients suffering primarily from Qi obstruction describe their pain as a dull, general ache in the body. They have difficulty localizing the pain to one specific area of the body.

On the other hand, blood obstruction symptoms include sharp pains confined to particular areas of the body. In more complicated cases, both types are present, making treatment challenging.

In patients suffering from Qi Stagnation pain (not enough Qi and Blood to flow smoothly), the acupuncturist choses acupoints to tonify—restore to balance—the Qi and Blood within the body.

Treatment focuses on energizing and increasing the amounts of Qi and Blood. The end result is better movement of the Qi and Blood through the channels. Overworked individuals, geriatric patients or patients suffering from chronic disease are more likely to develop Qi Stagnation pains—this applies to both human and canine patients.

In patients with Blood Stagnation pain, the location of the pain is known. The practicioner activates points distally (away from the painful site), locally (at the painful site), and segmentally (along the spinal cord in the region of the painful area). For example: if a patient has hip pain the distal points would be at the level of the toes and hock (ankle), which are on the channels that run through the hip region and over the back. Local acupoints would be engaged directly over the hip. Segmental points in the lumbar back region above and below the nerves involved with the hip joint would complete the grouping. Additional acupuncture points might address the specific type of Bi pattern: Wind, Damp, Cold, or Heat. But that is a discussion for another time.

The principle of controlling pain by managing the flow of Qi and Blood through the body’s channels may sound as though it is incompatible with Western medicine. However, when viewed from the Western perspective, it does not seem so very different after all....

Everywhere on one’s body, there are pain receptors called nociceptors. When stimulated, these pain receptors send signals to their local connections in the spinal cord. Within the spinal cord, the

pain signals travel through specific spinal nerve tracts and upward to areas within the brain. The brain analyzes the signals as pain and directs the body to respond accordingly.

The majority of nociceptors are C fiber nerves.

These are the smallest and slowest of the nerve fibers, sending pain signals to the brain at the speed of 0.5 to 2.0 m/s. Acupuncture needles, on the other hand, stimulate A-Delta nerve fibers. ADelta fibers are thicker than C fiber nerves. They send signals along the same pathways at a faster rate, 3 to 30 m/s—up to 15 times faster than C fibers. Their messages reach the spinal cord and the brain faster than the signals coming from the nociceptive C fibers. When the brain receives these non-painful signals from the A-Delta fibers, enkephalin and dynorphin are released. These are “endogenous opioids” (pain killers produced by our own bodies) and are similar to morphine, fentanyl, and hydrocodone. The released enkephalins and dynorphins bind to the C fiber receptors and prevent them from firing and sending pain signals to the brain. This action is called pre-synaptic inhibition at the level of the spinal cord.

In the brain, the signals from the A-Delta fibers cause the release of beta-endorphins within the hypothalamus and enkephalins from the periaqueductal gray within the midbrain. The enkephalins create an excitatory effect on the inhibitory neurons within the spinal cord. These inhibitory neurons project down to the local spinal cord level, releasing more enkephalins and dynorphins within the spinal cord, binding and preventing the nociceptive C fibers from making connections within the spinal cord.

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In summary, from the Eastern perspective, acupuncture removes the obstruction, allowing the free flow of Qi and Blood through the channels.

From the Western perspective, acupuncture reduces and eliminates pain by blocking the stimulation of the nociceptive C fibers, creating a negative feedback mechanism, and releasing the body’s endogenous opioids—natural pain killers.

Initially, the effects of acupuncture are short-lived, hence the need for repetitive treatments. In countries that rely on acupuncture more than Western Medicine, acupuncture treatments often occur daily or every other day. The number of procedures necessary depends on the severity of the disease, the chronicity of the disease, the number of viable nerve cells, and the individual’s inherent ability to respond to the actions of acupuncture.

Delores T. Craig, DVM, is an instructor and President-elect of the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS).

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Summer 2019

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24 Dog‘,Cruces

Summer 2019

T

“

he Hoarding Case.” If you don’t live in Deming, you may not have heard of it.

However, Luna County residents are all too familiar with the horrifying tale of the Ruff Ruff Sanctuary. But the story doesn’t start in Deming—court documents show Ruff Ruff’s operator had a prior hoarding case in California in 2013, which ended with an animal cruelty conviction, probation and a three-year ban on him owning any animals. He left California and moved to southern New Mexico, eventually settling in Luna County in late 2014. He rented a house and over the years accumulated close to 100 dogs and a trailer full of cats.

Concerned citizens, alarmed by the growing number of animals on the property, began calling the Deming Animal Shelter (DAS) and County Animal Control (ACO), which is operated under contract by the Deming-Luna County Humane Society (DLCHS). Sadly, county law had recently been changed to allow an unlimited number of companion animals, as long as there was adequate care.

By 2018, the Ruff Ruff Sanctuary was having financial trouble and its operator was facing eviction. In July of that year ten dogs died on the property, resulting in the assistant caretaker being charged with animal cruelty. Local rescue groups, hearing about the impending eviction, offered to help care for the dogs and cats, and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) field team reached out to offer assistance. The situation was finally under control.

In December 2018, the tenant/operator was removed from the property, leaving an estimated 70 dogs behind. The property owner accepted help from local rescue groups such as Deming Animal Guardians (DAG), which had volunteers working every day to make sure the animals had food and water. Eventually, DAG took in as many dogs as space and resources allowed. The remaining dogs initially went to the DAS, but many were subsequently transferred to DAG in the spring.

TV News coverage of the case reported these conditions at the Ruff Ruff Sanctuary: • Dogs kept inside the house and never allowed outside.

• Dogs kept in the barn with no access to sunlight.

• Dead animal carcasses kept in freezers.

• Unsanitary conditions.

A majority of the pens at Ruff Ruff had no gates, so volunteers had to climb over the fences to load the dogs safely into crates, then cut their way out of the pens. One volunteer noted that if there

had ever been an emergency, such as a fire, there would have been no way to evacuate the animals.

The cat trailer was never recovered—it was likely relocated prior to the eviction.

DAG has been working with Forever Homes Animal Rescue (FHAR) to transport the Ruff Ruff dogs to other shelters and rescues out of our area. Caring for these rescued animals has been an expensive undertaking—just the first batch of dogs taken in by DAG cost an estimated $11,000 in veterinary bills.

t i FSmrou othie For

DogS!

At what point does a rescue or facility have too many animals? Where does sanctuary end and hoarding begin?

The Hoarding Animals Research Consortium defines it this way: “Having more than the typical number of companion animals, an inability to provide even minimal standards of nutrition, sanitation, shelter and veterinary care, with this neglect often resulting in starvation, illness and death.” According to the Animal Legal Defense Fund website, 72% of hoarders are women, and the most common animal victims of hoarders are cats, followed by dogs.

DrooLY DeLiCiouS

According to the ASCPA, many hoarders represent themselves as “rescues” or “shelters,” even obtaining official 501(c)(3) charitable status. The following are signs that one of these groups may involve a hoarder: • The group is unwilling to let visitors see the location where animals are kept.

• The group will not disclose the number of animals in its care and makes little effort to find adoptive homes.

• More animals are continually taken in, despite the poor condition of existing animals.

• Legitimate shelters and rescue organizations are viewed as the enemy.

• Animals may be received at a remote location (parking lot, street corner, etc.) rather than the group’s facilities.

• No artiFiCiaL iNgreDieNtS SuPPortS DigeStioN

Luna County Animal Control has made no public comments, and the County Commissioners have never given an official statement on the matter. The county animal ordinance and DLCHS contract are in the process of being rewritten.

Meanwhile, the community expectantly awaits proper measures to be enacted in order to prevent future hoarding cases.

Available at your favorite pet food and specialty store!

Donations to DAG can be made at deminganimalguardians.yolasite.com.

BowWowBlends.com

Jamie Jones is a local animal advocate.

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STELLA & CHEWY’S CARNIVORE CRUNCH! Stella & Chewy’s now available at Better Life Pet Foods. 315 Telshor Ste. C, Las Cruces, NM. 575-556-9117.

BetterLifeNaturalPetFoods.com

CBD PET TINCTURES FROMM FAMILY PET FOODS CBD Pet Tinctures available at Mother Earth Herbs, 755 S. Telshor, Ste. F201, Las Cruces, NM. 575-312-2446.

MotherEarthHerbsRX.com

TROPICLEAN FLEA & TICK TREATMENT FOR DOGS

Since 1904, The Fromm Family has maintained a tradition of quiet innovation dedicated to the health and nutrition of animals. In 1949, we introduced the concept of premium pet food to the public. As the country’s first and oldest premium pet food company, we have earned the reputation as the industry leader, producing only the highest grade pet foods with the finest ingredients. Available at Mesilla Valley Pet Resort, 2500 W. Amador, Las Cruces, NM. 575-523-8853.

MVPetResort.com

DOG PHOTOGRAPHY & FRAMING

TropiClean Flea & Tick Spot On Treatment for Dogs. Full body repellent that effectively protects and defends against irritating fleas and ticks. Kills & repels fleas and ticks for up to 3 months, AND repels mosquitoes. Made with natural active ingredients, cedar-wood, and peppermint oils. Available at Horse ‘N’ Hound Feed ‘N’ Supply, 991 W. Amador St., Las Cruces, NM. 575-523-8790.

HorsenHoundFeed.com Dog‘,Cruces Summer 2019

26

Framed prints, beautiful pieces of art for Dog Lovers by Top Dog Photographer Ron Schmidt. At Pet Planet, 971 Sand Castle Ave., Las Cruces. 575-528-8180.

PetPlanetComplex.com

PETSg

o D ,Cruces of

IntegrItyAutoLC.Com

901 S. VALLey Dr. • 575.524.6959

LOCAL | COMMUNITY | FAMILY | GOALS | DREAMS | LIVES

GOT REAL ESTATE? RESIDENTIAL | COMMERCIAL | INVESTMENT MODULAR | NEW CONSTRUCTION

575.532.5406 Please send photos of your favorite pets to:

photos@dogcruces.com

1424 E LOHMAN | LAS CRUCES, NM 88001

ENCHANTEDSUNREALTY.COM Dog‘,Cruces

Summer 2019

27

Apple Cinnamon Biscuits 4 C Brown Rice Flour 2 Apples (cored and diced) ¼ C Egg Whites 1 Tbsp Ground Cinnamon 1 Overripe Banana • 2 Tbsp Water Preheat oven to 325­°F. In a food processor, crush the apples, banana, egg whites, and water. This mixture should be slightly chunky. Transfer apple mixture to a separate bowl; add the brown rice flour and cinnamon until thoroughly blended. Knead this dough until all ingredients are thoroughly distributed. Divide the dough and roll out sections to a 1/4” thickness, between pieces of parchment paper or on a floured surface. Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes and place these onto a parchment-lined cookie sheet.

Bake for 30-45 minutes or until center of cookie is firm. Turn off the oven, leaving cookies in until completely cool.

NOTE: ALWAYS consult with your veterinarian regarding ingredients, serving sizes, and special dietary requirements prior to changing your pet’s diet.

Carob Peanut Buddies ½ C Carob Chips ¼ C All Natural Peanut Butter 2 Tbsp Coconut Oil Microwave the carob chips with one tablespoon of the coconut oil in a glass or pyrex dish at 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chips are melted and the oil is mixed through. Repeat the process in separate bowl with the peanut butter and remaining tablespoon of coconut oil. Pour one teaspoon of the melted carob into a silicon candy mold. Place in freezer for five minutes. Repeat with peanut butter mix. Freeze again for five minutes. Repeat again with carob mix. Freeze again until solid. Remove candies from molds and store in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to serve.

Walter’s

Lunchbox

by Buliwyf Dubbin (as told to Margaret Dubbin)

Time to Hit the Trails!

H

owdy, Pals! Buliwyf (Bull-vye) here, and I hope everyone is enjoying their summer so far! I, for one, am glad spring is over and swimsuit season is in full swing. I suffered such horrible allergies this spring!! I’m used to seeing Mom and Dad deal with runny noses, itchy eyes, and constant sneezing, but never before have I had to be on daily allergy medicine. My eyes were all watery and so itchy I was rubbing them on everything just to get some relief. It was so bad I lost all the hair around my eyes and my muzzle! At first Mom thought I might have mange. But she and Dad quickly figured out I had developed the family curse of seasonal allergies. Mom tried to keep me from going outside and rolling in the dirt and grass, but that was NEVER going to work —I am a dog of nature, after all.

Unlike my spoiled-rotten baby sister Goober, I enjoy being outdoors, digging in the dirt, getting filthy, chewing on sticks and the occasional dead bird. In an attempt to reduce the allergens we bring into the house, Mom always tries her best to wipe me down with baby wipes she keeps in a gigantic container by the door—but that just makes me want to go back out and do it again to get rid of that baby smell! Or Dad tries to get me to go swimming in the pool to rinse off the extra allergens I pick up, but once I get out of the pool I get the zoomies and dive right back into the dirt for a good old-fashioned dirt bath. Neither one of them has figured out they can’t impose their human cleanliness rules on me. I’m my own dog, and I’m going to do dog things that make me happy! Luckily, the allergy medicine worked, and now that spring is over, I’m enjoying the outdoors even more without the itchy eyes. And being a chow hound, I’m just grateful I don’t have any food allergies!

With summer here, I’m also looking forward to camping trips with my peeps. I can’t wait to do more outdoorsy stuff, like hiking and fishing! Mom has a few handy safety hacks when taking your pups camping....

1) When hanging out by the campfire at night, Mom puts LED collars on us pups so she can see us in the dark (and make sure we’re not getting into any mischief).

A good alternative is one of those glow necklaces for kids they sell at the dollar

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stores—they are one-time-use only but very handy, and they last all night.

2) Mom keeps brightly-colored bandanas on us pups at all times when camping. There are a few good reasons for this. In case we get separated from camp, she hopes that someone else sees the bandanas and understands we are friendly and might need help getting home. Or, if the flies and mosquitos are a nuisance, Mom puts a few drops or sprays of insect repellent on the bandanas. Also, when hiking in the summer heat Mom puts a water-soaked bandana on us to help keep us cool. If it’s super hot she’ll also put my water-soaked cooling vest on.

3) Ugh, those baby wipes again! Mom keeps the baby wipes at camp—not just for the humans but also to wipe down us pups , especially if we lie down next to the campfire where there is a bunch of ash mixed with the dirt. This keeps the tent bedding and our sleeping bags a little cleaner.

I hope everyone enjoys a great summer! Stay cool and hydrated, and stay safe, peeps!

Who wore it better?

No contest, folks!

My brightly-colored bandana is both stylish AND practical, while Goober looks awkward in everything.

I can’t be 100% certain, but it looks like we are about to get a Carob Peanut Buddy or Apple Cinnamon Biscuit as a trail treat. YUM!

Kat ’s Korner

by Kat Lacy

Why Raw Is So Right for Your Cat

W

hen I first began looking for better diets for my dogs—more than 27 years ago— I did not own any cats. I was a dog person. I trained, showed, even bred dogs. But cats were not a big part of my life until my neighbor dropped off two identical baby tabby kittens, declaring, “You need kitties in your life!” One of those babies is still with me—22 years later.

Over the years I’ve tried to convince many of my customers to switch to, or at least supplement their cats’ diets with, fresh raw meat. Transitioning from one type of food to another has often proven difficult. “My cat won’t eat it,” is the most common objection. I’ve found over the years that “cat people” tend to give in to their cats very easily. A cat’s cry sounds much like a baby crying, and cats have evolved into master manipulators to gain favor from the food-dolling human. Cats are creatures of habit, and changing their diet can be challenging. Don’t give in!

The benefits will be worth the challenge.

First, let’s dispel a couple myths: 1) Salmonella from raw food does not make cats sick but can make people sick. The risk of your cat getting sick from dry, grain-based food is much higher.

Cats have NO requirement for carbohydrates and a very limited ability to digest them, so grain-based anything is counterproductive. 2) Kibble does not keep teeth clean. This is the MOST damaging false information, in my opinion, and has contributed to millions of cats dying sooner than their natural lifespan. Raw food will actually improve your cats’ dental health—especially if you can start your cat on raw chicken or turkey necks or wings. Cats in the wild eat their entire prey including the bone, which is highly digestible and is their primary source of calcium.

NEVER feed cooked bones to your cat. Cooking kills the nutrients, while the bone becomes brittle and very dangerous to ingest.

The carbohydrates in most dry kibble create a starchy film that promotes plaque buildup and encourages gum disease. Bacteria from dental infections spreads to other parts of the body, causing damage to multiple organs. The kidneys have to work too hard when the cat is fed dry, grain-based kibble beacuse there is almost zero moisture content—and this all adds up to the perfect recipe for an unhealthy, diseased, much shorter life.

Other benefits of feeding a raw diet to your cat include increased energy, improved digestion

(including reduced stool odor and volume), fewer hairballs, less shedding, improved urinary health and weight loss if the cat is overweight.

There is no such thing as a vegan cat, and it’s NEVER too late to transition to raw. Even old cats will benefit, and interestingly, many older cats take to it much more easily! Another myth is that older cats need less protein. They actually need more protein and a much higher quality protein.

So let’s talk transition. If you just plop a cold or frozen dollop of raw food into your kibble-loving cat’s bowl, he will think it a foreign object from outer space. Start by adding probiotics and enzymes to his dry food and adding a high quality, grain-free canned food with probiotics and enzymes on the side. Reduce the amount of dry food and increase the canned food every day.

Introduce a high quality raw food after slightly warming it to room temperature (or warmer) and putting it next to the canned food in place of the dry kibble. This transition phase may take a week or so, but don’t give up or give into your cat’s whining by going back to the kibble!

Once your cat has eaten the warmed raw food he will usually want more. As he starts feeling better, he will start eating more and more raw.

There are awesome freeze dried raw foods, like Stella and Chewy’s, that will also help with the transition. Try crumbling one of these foods on top of the kibble and reducing the dry food more and more over the next two weeks. Cats go crazy for these freeze dried foods, and may want to eat them exclusively once they have tried them, but the lack of moisture is still a problem. Bone broth is very healthy and can be added to freeze dried products to rehydrate them.

DRIVERS & DONATIONS NEEDED

In LOVING MEMORY of Lola.

A Supporter and an Ambassador of Forever Homes Animal Rescue.

PLEASE CONSIDER SPONSORING AN ANIMAL FOR TRANSPORT. MONETARY DONATIONS OR GAS CARDS ARE GREATLY APPRECIATED. donations can be made:

PAYPAL: FOREVERHOMESAR@AOL.COM MAIL TO: FOREVER HOMES ANIMAL RESCUE (FHAR) 700 1ST Street ALAMOGORDO, NM 88310 TAX ID # 47-3947873

In the past 25 years of recommending raw diets, I have never heard of a cat not becoming healthier as a result. I’ve seen many ailments reversed on a raw diet. My 22-year-old cat has not been exclusively raw her whole life, she has been primarily so all along and almost exclusively for many years. All of my younger cats—including 20-year-old Maine Coon cross Chummy—eat raw daily. I hear too often from customers “my cat is very old. He’s 13.” That is not old!! Start the raw transition. Stop by for a variety of options to help your cat make this important change and live a longer, healthier life.

Kat Lacy is owner of Better Life Pet Foods.

find us on facebook!

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forever homes animal rescue

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Make a Difference

Adopt, Foster, Volunteer, Donate

L

ocal Animal Organizations always need good people to help them meet their goals. Contact the groups below to see which one(s) would be the best fit for you!

2 Hearts 4 Paws Refuge 575-642-9614 or 575-642-6589 email: twohearts4pawsrefuge@yahoo.com www.2Hearts4PawsRefuge.com

Dona Ana County Humane Society • P.O. Box 1176 • Las Cruces, NM 88004

SERVICES PROVIDED

by DACHS: • Low-Income Emergency Veterinary Aid • Low-Income Vaccination Aid • Shelter Dog Training • Senior Citizen Pet Adoption Aid

The ORIGINAL YAPPY HOUR, the third Wednesday of each month at D.H. LesCombes Winery (formerly St. Clair Winery & Bistro.) from 6-8pm.

575-647-4808

ACTion Programs for Animals (APA) /Doña Ana Pets Alive! (DAPA) 800 West Picacho, Las Cruces, NM 575-644-0505 or 575-571-4654 email: mail@apalascruces.org www.ActionProgramsForAnimals.org Animal Service Center of the Mesilla Valley (ASCMV) 3551 Bataan Memorial West, Las Cruces, NM 575-382-0018 www.las-cruces.org/departments/ascmv Broken Promises SW 575-680-1955 or 575-915-7985 www.facebook.com/HelpKittenArthur Cat’s Meow Adoption Center 2211 N. Mesquite, Las Cruces 640-0011 or 639-3036 www.TheCatsMeowLasCruces.com Cherished K9 All Breed Rescue 575-496-6085 email: cherishedk-9s@hotmail.com www.CherishedK-9.com Coalition for Pets and People (Zero in 7) 575-386-9212 www.ZeroIn7.org Deming Animal Guardians 575-544-2209 www.DemingAnimalGuardians.org

Deming Animal Guardians Sunshine Haven Intake Project & Rescue 575-545-8862 www.DagShipRescue.com Doña Ana County Humane Society (DACHS) 575-647-4808 www.DACHSLC.org Forever Homes Animal Rescue email: foreverhomesar@aol.com Facebook: NM Forever Homes Animal Rescue Humane Society of Southern NM (HSSNM) /PetSmart Cat Adoption Center 575-523-8020 email: mail@hssnm.org www.hssnm.org Las Cruces Dog Park Coalition PO Box 13345, Las Cruces, NM 88013 575-520-4382 www.LCDogParkers.com Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary (SHAS) 575-805-5338 email: info@SHASpets.com www.SHASpets.com Spay/Neuter Action Program of Southern NM (SNAP) 2405 W. Picacho, Las Cruces, NM 88005 575-524-9265 www.SnapNewMexico.org Therapaws 575-524-2026 email: therapaws@gmail.com www.TherapyDogs.com (parent organization) Uncaged Paws, Inc. Tails from the Shelter 575-323-1157 email: SavingLives@UncagedPaws.org www.TailsFromTheShelter.org (rescue work) Facebook: facebook.com/TailsFlights

LCPD’s Finest photo courtesy of LCPD

E-mail: dachslc@hotmail.com

www.dachslc.org

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LCPD Traffic Officer Joshua Herrera rescued a pair of tiny, abandonded bunnies he found at the site of a crime scene investigation. He took them to Stick House Sanctuary in El Paso when it became clear their mother was not coming back, proving that the mission of the LCPD is always To Protect and Serve.....everybunny!

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P ar ks & Re c re atio n De p ar t me n t P re s e n t s

JULY 11 –––– Rock ––––

RUST EL PASO, TX –––– Variety ––––

PURE MAGIC LAS CRUCES, NM

JULY 25 – Americana & Storytelling –

TROUT FISHING IN AMERICA FAYETTEVILLE, AR –-– Bluegrass, Americana –-– Dates, entertainers, locations, and show times are subject to change without notice.

THURSDAY NIGHTS at 8 P.M.

Plaza de Las Cruces Main Street Downtown For more information call (575) 541-2550 or on-line at www.las-cruces.org /CityofLasCrucesParksandRecreation

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City of Las Cruces

Summer M O U2019 N TA I N S

OF OPPORTUNITY

®

STEVE SMITH & HARD ROAD LAS CRUCES, NM

AUGUST 8 –-– Mariachi Music –-–

MARIACHI REAL DE EL PASO EL PASO, TX

AUGUST 22 –––– Alternative Folk ––––

ZACH HECKENDORF DENVER, CO –-– Americana, Folk, Rock –-–

CHRIS BAKER LAS CRUCES, NM