Northland September 2015

Northland

SEPTEMBER 2015

NorthlandLifestyle.com

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Running Free GLADSTONE ANIMAL CLINIC CARING FOR ALL CREATURES CHANGING LEADS EQUINE RESCUE SAVES HORSES AND VOLUNTEERS MEET COWBOY THE AFRICAN GREY PARROT

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Burleson Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry combines art, science and experience to provide your family with extraordinary orthodontic care. Get to know us and learn how our expertise can work for you. For a complimentary consultation and digital x-rays with one of our orthodontic specialists, go to burlesonortho.com/secondopinion or call (816) 533-7568 for free, friendly phone advice.

Editor's Letter

The furry, feathered, scaled, hooved and loved.

W

elcome back to one of my favorite issues all year--The Pets. I am an unabashed dog lover so this is just a whole month of thinking about great ways that I can describe my interactions with my two dogs, Indiana Jones and Short Round. Short Round joined our family last December and it seems like she has always been here, playing, fighting and keeping our lives interesting. Indy and Shorty are right there by my side for every deadline, story assignment and writing session, the best coworkers ever.

Although personally I love my furry companions, this year I wanted to focus on the people that choose more exotic pets.

While a dog or a cat may be the easiest option, Jackie Kincaid shows us that birds can be just as entertaining. Her African grey parrot, Cowboy, is just a teenager in bird years and he shows it with a library of more than 100 sounds that he uses to entertain and interact with her and her family.

Stanley the bulldog may be a canine but he's a dog that's teaching lessons each day.

Stanley was born with a cleft palate and since his surgery to correct the medical part of his condition, he has been helping the kids of Deborah Pack's school class learn what it means to be different but still okay. He even has his own day, declared by the governor of Missouri!

And Changing Leads Equine Rescue shows us that sometimes rescue animals can heal volunteers as much as volunteers heal them. The home for mistreated horses has helped to rehome and rejuvenate more than 50 horses since its inception and they aren't slowing down.

SEPTEMBER 2015 editor Rachel C. Murphy | RMurphy@LifestylePubs.com

sales director Lori Lapka | Lori.Lapka@LifestylePubs.com

advertising sales Mike Arel | MArel@LifestylePubs.com Andrew Unrein | Andrew.Unrein@ LifestylePubs.com

contributing writers Lisa Allen, Pete Dulin, Jennifer Higgins, Jennifer S. Holland, Kenneth Kieser, Peggy Parolin

contributing photographers Tracie Lansing Photography, Joe Coulter, Christopher T. Murphy, Lani Odell, Joel Schneider

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt chief sales officer | Matthew Perry chief financial officer | DeLand Shore director of marketing | Brad Broockerd art director | Sara Minor ad coordinators | Cyndi Vreeland, Chelsi Hornbaker, Katy James layout designer | Nicole Sylvester copy editor | Kendra Mathewson executive assistant | Lori Cunningham application architect | Michael O’Connell

Animals connect us to what it means to love unconditionally. There is nothing more comforting than seeing a beloved pet--be it dog, cat, lizard, spider or ferret--look to us as their favorite person in the world. They teach us to care, to maintain and to foster a relationship with another living being, even if they can't talk back. If you have a pet, go hug them today (unless it's a fish) and let them know how much they impact your life.

web developer | Hanna Park it director | Randy Aufderheide

Happy September!

Rachel Murphy, Editor RMurphy@LifestylePubs.com

by Community ™ Proverbs 3:5-6 Contact us at:

ON THE COVER Josie is one of the newest

residents at Changing Leads Equine Rescue.

She is one of the 50 horses saved by the rescue. Read more on page 18.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOEL SCHNEIDER

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7373 West 107th Street Overland Park, KS 66212 913.599.4300 | NorthlandLifestyle.com Northland Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Northland’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

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Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Northland Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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14 Departments

14 Spices Asian Restaurant Bringing Thai flavors to NKC.

24 Elkhound Ranch Kennels Where caring for pets is a family affair.

28 Stanley the Teaching Pup

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Good Times

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Around Town

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Hot Spot

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Your Neighbor

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Giving Back

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Page Turners

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Locally Owned

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Sold Properties

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Lifestyle Calendar

This extraordinary animal is redefining perfect.

24 28

42 Parting Thoughts

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Northland Lifestyle | September 2015

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Around Town PETCO FOUNDATION INVESTS IN WARRIORS' BEST FRIEND FOUNDATION'S SERVICE DOGS Warriors’ Best Friend Foundation of Kansas City, Missouri, has been awarded a $5,000 grant from the Petco Foundation to support Operation: Homestead, Warriors' Best Friend's program that provides service canines for wounded soldiers with Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) at no cost to the soldier.

The grant was made possible through the Petco Foundation’s annual Helping Heroes fundraising campaign, in partnership with Natural Balance Pet Foods. During the campaign each October, customers are invited to donate in Petco stores across the country to support service and therapy animals and organizations. The Petco Foundation’s grant will help Warriors’ Best Friend provide more critically needed service dogs for wounded soldiers.

Specifically, the Petco Foundation's investment will help to support Operation: Homestead. The program unites homeless dogs and wounded soldiers with the idea in mind that what one needs, the other possesses—a forever home and in return the most loyal and loving of companions.

For more information, visit WarriorsBestFriend.org or PetcoFoundation.org.

MILES OF EXOTICS MOVES TO NEW LOCATION The Northland’s expert on all things reptilian and aquatic is growing. The store has moved around the corner to 8350 N. Broadway St. in the building formerly occupied by Hometown Buffet. See their new space at Facebook.com/pages/Miles-Of-Exotics.

LOCAL AUTHOR RECEIVES NATIONAL SERVICE AWARD The National Storytelling Network recently announced that Joyce Slater of Kansas City, Missouri. is a recipient of the NSN ORACLE Distinguished National Service Award. This award is presented to those individuals, members or groups who contribute their time and energy in an exemplary manner on the national level to forward the work of the National Storytelling Network.

Slater has been involved with Joyce Slater shares the storytelling with and through River art of story telling. and Prairie Storyweavers for over 25 years. She became a professional storyteller in 1996 and helped start the KC Storytelling Celebration with Maple Woods Community College in 2000. She continues to find new ways to introduce this wonderful art to others young and old, in a variety of venues.

Slater has also served on the Board of the National Storytelling Network. Several years ago, NSN started a national search for a new site

for its headquarters. Slater saw immediately that Kansas City, with its forward-looking government, its fertile arts community, and its already-well-developed storytelling presence, would be the ideal future home for NSN. In part due to Slater’s unceasing efforts, the headquarters for NSN will be moving to Kansas City, Missouri, next year.

For more information about Slater, see website SlaterTales.com.

ENGAGED COMPANIES CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING Engaged Companies Founder Chad Earwood was joined by Cerner Corp. executive Cliff Illig and other special guests on July 23rd to mark the grand opening celebration of the new Engaged Companies headquarters in Parkville. The 30,000-square-foot building is the first within the Village at The National development, located at the entrance to the National Golf Club of Kansas City. It is home to several of the transportation, technology, and financial businesses under the Engaged Companies umbrella: eShipping, eShipping Exchange, Engaged Expedited, Engaged Technologies, Engaged Financial, Engaged Insurance, and Engaged Real Estate.

Visit EngagedCompanies.com or Eshipping.biz for more information.

NKC STUDENT QUALIFIES IN NATIONAL ROCKET COMPETITION Congratulations to Emily Schmidtlein for being one of the three national winners in the Reach for the Stars ~ National Rocket Competition by having her rocket get closest to the target.

Emily won the opportunity to celebrate her win at US Space & Rocket Center where she will be awarded a Space Shuttle Challenger commemorative coin with certificate signed by Astronaut Jon McBride, who piloted the Challenger on earlier missions.

In October, Emily will attend Space Camp, where she will get to view amazing space artifacts, experience astronaut simulations and launch from Space Camp’s Homer Hickam Field under an "October Sky" Emily Schmidtlein is headed (10/24/15) in “Rocket City” Huntsville, Ala- to Space Camp. bama. Emily was coached by teacher Dennis O'Connell.

PARK HILL SCHOOL DISTRICT RENNER ELEMENTARY RECEIVES BRONZE AWARD Renner Elementary received a 2015 Bronze National Healthy Schools Award from The Alliance for a Healthier Generation. This award goes to schools that have implemented changes to create healthier school environments. To earn an award, schools must meet best practice criteria established by the Alliance’s Healthy Schools Program expert panel.

CONTINUED >

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Northland Lifestyle | September 2015

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11

Around Town

(CONTINUED)

OAKHILL DAY SCHOOL HOSTS GOLF TOURNAMENT Oakhill Day School welcomes golfers to their golf tournament at the Shoal Creek Golf Course on September 13. Sponsorships are available.

Lunch will be held prior to the event starting at 11:30 a.m. You also have an opportunity to participate in the raffle and take home some fabulous prizes! The awards banquet will be immediately following the round.

They want to make this event even larger than last year and welcome new and past golfers to participate! A foursome can be four men, four women, or any combination of men and women.

They welcome and encourage single golfers to register as well.

KEMPERSPORTS TO MANAGE SHILOH SPRINGS GOLF CLUB KemperSports announced recently that it has been selected by

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Northland Lifestyle | September 2015

Platte County, Missouri, to manage Shiloh Springs Golf Club in Platte City. The 18-hole, par-71 golf course features significant elevation changes with optimal turf conditions.

The uniquely designed golf course routes through the subtle rolling hills of Northwest Missouri – located only five miles from Kansas City International Airport.

KemperSports has been retained by Platte County to leverage expertise in marketing and golf operations. KemperSports also manages Hodge Park Golf Course and Shoal Creek Golf Course in nearby Kansas City, Missouri.

“We are honored to work with Platte County to manage Shiloh Springs,” says KemperSports CEO Steve Skinner. “Working closely with the County, our goal will be to bring creative operational efficiencies while enhancing the customer experience at the course”.

For more information on Shiloh Springs Golf Club, visit ShilohSpringsGolf.com.

LIBERTY HOSPITAL RENOVATION NOW UNDERWAY Liberty Hospital began construction July 21 to renovate several areas of the main hospital. The Doctors Building entrance to the main parking lot will be closed to start Phase 1, which includes: gift shop, moving the main entrance to the Doctors Building, surgery waiting room, patient registration, lab waiting, patient rooms and nursing station on 3 East and the first floor corridor.

It has been four years since Liberty Hospital has undergone any major renovations, according to vice president for finance/support Dan Williams, and some areas have not been renovated for 20 years or more.

“We want to create an environment throughout our campus that is welcoming and comforting, not only for patients, but also for visitors and our staff,” Williams says.

Phase 1 of this $4 million construction project is scheduled to be completed in November. Phase 2 will encompass the remainder of the existing main lobby, the prior patient registration area and some waiting rooms. This phase is scheduled to begin in early December and be completed in spring 2016.

Signage will be in place to direct patients and guests around the construction. Patients entering the Doctors Building are encouraged to use the ground floor entrance.

The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures (T/m), formerly the Toy and Miniature Museum of Kansas City, reopened on August 1 after an $8 million renovation. In addition to improved climate controls, the renovation features the world’s largest finescale miniature collection and one of the nation’s largest collections of antique toys in new exhibits and hands-on experiences.

The museum has lowered admission prices and expanded operating hours.

Located at 5235 Oak Street, Kansas City, Missouri, The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures will be open every day of the week except Tuesdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is $5 for ages 5 and up, free for ages 4 and under and museum members. The new museum membership program is based on the number of people you would like to bring with you each time you visit—two, six, or 12 people— and starts at just $25.

MATTHEW J. WENZEL NAMED PRESIDENT AND CEO, SAINT LUKE’S NORTH HOSPITAL Matthew J. Wenzel has been appointed president and CEO for Saint Luke’s North Hospital effective August 10.

Most recently Wenzel served as CEO of Hedrick Medical Center, a position he has held since 2011. Wenzel joined Saint Luke’s Health System in 2006 at Hedrick Medical Center, where he has held leadership roles in administration, ancillary services and information systems.

Wenzel holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and master’s degrees in health administration and health care informatics from the University of Missouri in Columbia.

Saint Luke’s North Hospital is the first and only hospital serving Platte County, Mo, with more than 20 specialized health care services, a Level II neonatal intensive care unit, Level III Missouri time critical diagnosis designation for stroke, complete inpatient and outpatient diagnostic testing, and comprehensive rehabilitation services.

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September 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

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Hot Spot

SPICES Asian Restaurant FROM AMERICAN TO AUTHENTIC, THAI FLAVOR COMES HOME

ARTICLE RACHEL C. MURPHY | PHOTOGRAPHY JOEL SCHNEIDER hen it comes to craving Asian flavors, there are many places

W

in the Northland to call. We have numerous Chinese restaurants, a Japanese hot pot restaurant, the city's only Malaysian restaurant and several respected sushi joints. But for Thai food, the field has been very limited--until now. Spices Asian Restaurant is throwing their hat in the ring and I'm excited about it.

The barely 2-month-old restaurant filled in the space on Burlington Avenue that once housed the always empty El Chupacabra Mexican Grill and Cantina. While I did not experience the space's Mexican iteration, I'm more than pleased with Spices' sleek and modern space. A few Thai decor touches here and there make a space that lets the food do the talking and it has a lot to say. While many new restaurants leave aesthetics by the wayside, it's a relief to walk into a well designed room that feels welcoming and not nearly as kitschy as many.

I've been to Spices twice now and am bound to return as each experience has been not only good but leaves me wanting more.

You see, Spices is more than phad thai noodles and curry, although that is certainly available. On our first visit, my husband and I were both borderline hangry so anything was fair game.

The first thing that caught our eye was the crab rangoon dip with wonton chips. I loved the idea of crab rangoon as a dip but sadly, when we tried to order it, our server, a very friendly and accommodating young lady, informed us that they had changed it to be the traditional crab rangoon, Thai style. We were so hungry that we went with it. We were not disappointed.

Thai style, while it really means that the flavors of sweet, salty, sour and spicy are in balance, also means that it is typically a lighter take on traditional favorites. The crab rangoon were fried in the lightest wontons I've had, crispy, not oily and filled with a piping hot crab and cream cheese filling that I could have eaten with a spoon.

For $5.99, they were a great start to the meal.

I am always wary of ordering phad thai noodles in the States because many restaurants make the dish in what they consider 'American' style, with a sauce of sweet syrup almost resembling ketchup.

This, of course, bears little resemblance to true phad thai. But when at a Thai restaurant, I feel compelled to start with what many consider the basics so I dove in. Unfortunately, this was the case for my first entree at Spices ($8.99). My dish, while full of flavor, was incredibly sweet, and not at all what I expected. I asked our server 14

Northland Lifestyle | September 2015

about it and she kindly sent the chef over, a small Thai woman, who explained that I just needed to ask for "authentic" style. She offered to remake it for me, but I declined, instead letting my husband finish it the next day. He didn't seem to mind at all.

His dish, on the other hand, was delicious and very authentic. His phad grapow ($8.99) was a perfect balance of spicy, savory meat and vegetables, with stir fried basil, green peppers and chicken ground up larb style. Topped with an over easy egg, the dish hit all the right notes and gave me hope for another visit.

I'm glad I came back. I stopped in for lunch, sat at the bar and started with the summer rolls ($4.99). Despite being described as moo shu summer rolls, the chef once again told me that the menu had changed and they were now made with chicken and lettuce. The resulting roll was fresh and indeed, summery, on a hot day with the ubiquitous peanut sauce, a personal vice of mine.

I tried to order the phad lemongrass noodles, but the chef steered me away from the dish, indicating that many people didn't like it. She recommended instead the phad see eew noodles for $8.99. I agreed, stipulating that it should be made as authentically as possible. She didn't disappoint.

My dish came out chock full of vegetables, mushrooms and chicken, with just enough heat that I inadvertently polished off the whole plate. There was no hint of the sweet flavor that I experienced before.

It was a savory, noodly plate of heaven.

There are so many more dishes I want to try: the Thai sausage appetizer, the green papaya salad, the duck soup and each and every one of the curries. The strip center on Burlington is about to become a destination for the Thai cuisine lovers in the Northland, so you better get there before I do!

SPICES ASIAN RESTAURANT 2417 Burlington St. North Kansas City, Mo 64116 816.221.0981 SpicesAsianNKC.com Hours Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Patient of the Month For 12-year-old track-running, trumpet-playing, honor student Sydney C., getting braces at Burleson Orthodontics has been an easy and comfortable experience. Sydney and her family have been so happy with the service that her whole family has joined her in orthodontic treatment (excluding the family dog)!

Here is what Sydney and her mom have to say about Burleson Orthodontics and having braces...

1.) Why did you choose Burleson for your orthodontic provider?

We scheduled a complimentary consultation with Dr. Burleson for Sydney when she was 7 years old and in 2nd grade. She was upset because her fellow classmates were commenting on how her teeth were coming in crooked.

Dr. B educated us on the benefits of early orthodontic treatment and Sydney was excited to get braces!

2.) How has your experience with Burleson Orthodontics been?

Fabulous! Sydney is finishing up her second phase of treatment. I completed orthodontic treatment as well and soon Sydney’s sister, Molly Grace will be starting as well!

We currently live 3.5 hours away from the office and the staff always is eager to accommodate our needs! We are extremely impressed that Dr. B follows all of his patient’s cases even when he is away from the office.

3.) How has your new smile given you more confidence? (i.e. sports, singing, playing an instrument, other opportunities, etc) Look at Sydney’s smile! It is pure confidence! Recently, Sydney got her first instrument, a trumpet. At first she was nervous to play because of her braces but was encouraged by her music instructor and the Burleson Ortho staff and now she is confidently playing her trumpet.

4.) How did you feel about your smile before braces? How do you feel about them now?

Sydney has a contagious smile! We feel as a family that Dr. Burleson’s recommendation of early treatment helped Sydney from hiding her beautiful smile and shortened her time in braces overall. We tell all of our friends and family about Burleson Orthodontics!

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Four Area Metro Locations: Kansas City • Liberty • Excelsior Springs • Raymore September 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

15

Your Neighbor

Birds Can Be Man's Best Friend, Too NOT JUST PRETTY TO LOOK AT, BIRDS CAN MAKE GREAT PETS

Cowboy can make more than 100 sounds.

ARTICLE JENNIFER HIGGINS | PHOTOGRAPHY LANI ODELL

D

ogs are considered man’s best friend, with cats a close second, but where do birds fit in the pet equation?

Birds have always interested Jackie Kincaid has always loved Jackie Kincaid, who just moved animals of the feathered sort. to Gladstone with her husband and two sons. She currently has two birds, a cockatiel named Marley and an African Gray Parrot named Cowboy.

“We’ve had Marley six years; she was found on a farm in Lone Jack and given to us. She loves to follow our youngest son around the house. Our parrot Cowboy was also given to us about six months ago, from someone at work who couldn’t take care of him anymore. Cowboy is 18 years old, and will live to be 50-60 years old, so he’s still a teenager,” Kincaid says.

African Gray parrots like Cowboy are known to be easily recognizable, are playful and intelligent, with the cognitive ability of 4-6 year olds, and Cowboy is no exception.

“He knows about 100 words and noises. He can make video game sounds, repeat alarm sounds, sound like the microwave, laugh and make squeaky noises. He can bark like a dog, so my husband calls him puppy dog sometimes. He can repeat commands like 'come here,' and tells the dogs ‘shut up’ when they start barking. He has learned to pick up on reactions and respond. He puts food in his beak, pokes it out of the cage and feeds the dog. He knows the McDonalds song from commercials. If I’m talking on the phone and say ‘hello,’ he’ll repeat ‘hello’ back. My boys love them; they think it’s fun to talk to Cowboy and get him to flap his wings and play with them,” Kincaid says.

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Northland Lifestyle | September 2015

While African Gray Parrots sound like they could be fun to have as a pet, they are more difficult to take care of than other birds. Having a bird like this should be a serious commitment that you make for many years.

“They have to have exercise daily, and let out of their cage for several hours a day. You’ll need a caretaker if you go on vacation.

They require fresh fruit and veggies once a day, in addition to regular food. We have to leave the TV on for him so he doesn’t get bored,” Kincaid says.

Kincaid has always loved birds, and her friends refer to her as the Bird Lady.

“I always had birds growing up; I got my love of birds from my grandma. I had a cockatiel for 18 years, and it died not too long before we got Marley. I’m always looking for them outdoors, and have lots of bird feeders. It’s interesting to me, and is my hobby. I’m thinking of getting finches next. They are fun and cute, and I’ve never had them before, so it’s a new breed for me and I would like to try. They are the easiest bird to have; basically they are the goldfish of birds. They aren’t very personable; you just leave them in the cage to look at,” Kincaid says.

Just like more traditional pets like cats or dogs, birds have different personalities that make them unique, and no two birds are the same.

“Different birds have different personalities. Some are more outgoing. Our Cowboy is more shy. I’m the only one who can really handle him to pick him up. He’s a one-person bird. You have to learn the bird’s personality. Most people have not been around birds and ask, ‘how do you take care of a bird?’ My friends like to come over and interact with the birds; it’s fun to see, ” Kincaid says.

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Giving Back

CHANGING LEADS, EQUINE RESCUE, CHANGES LIVES HORSES AND RESCUERS HELP EACH OTHER

Volunteers and horses both come to Changing Leads Equine Rescue for peace and healing.

ARTICLE PETE DULIN | PHOTOGRAPHY JOEL SCHNEIDER

has a weight problem. She is currently more than 300 pounds Josie underweight. Standing at 17 hands high, the tall, magnificent brown Percheron has seen better days over her 18 years of life. This gentle former broodmare arrived at Changing Leads Equine Rescue in early July. Since then, her life has slowly taken a better turn.

When Changing Leads Barn Manager and Team Trainer Melissa Harrell and other volunteers first met Josie, the horse was 400 pounds underweight. Her ribs showed prominently. Her hooves needed dras18

Northland Lifestyle | September 2015

tic trimming. She stood with an awkward, flat-footed stance. Josie also suffers from Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmitis (DSLD), a syndrome that impairs the lower joints on her hind legs and collapses them into a “coon-footed” or severely-angled position.

The volunteers at Changing Leads manage Josie’s special diet.

They feed her three times daily to help her recover from malnourishment. Numerous visits from a veterinarian and farrier along with personal attention from volunteers have improved

her health. Eventually, she will be available for adoption only as a companion horse, no longer fit for riding, Nonprofit Changing Leads is based at the Woodson Hill Equestrian Center just a few miles from Zona Rosa.

“We used to be River Bluff Rescue Ranch,” says Elizabeth Hill, a volunteer with that effort launched in 2005.

By 2006, Hill realized the rescue ranch needed a more practical location. She bought Woodson Hill in 2007 and set up the equestrian center for boarding and training. That business helps underwrite the rescue operation.

“Boarding horses brought in cash flow.

In 2008, we moved the rescue horses here to a more structured environment,” says Hill. “Their health began improving within a couple of months.”

Today, Hill, a volunteer board and 25 active, mostly female, volunteers care for a half-dozen horses.

Horses are brought to Changing Leads when the original owners can no longer care for them, due to expense, CONTINUED > September 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

19

Giving Back

(CONTINUED)

“There’s emotional bonding with the horse.

You have to show up, be responsible and accountable as a volunteer.

It’s good modeling for young adults and kids.”

20

Northland Lifestyle | September 2015

hardship or other personal circumstances. Abandoned and neglected horses are also rescued. Each horse underwent quarantine and medical evaluation by Kent Jackson, D.V.M., after arrival at the center.

Changing Leads has 10 acres of dedicated fenced-in pastures, turnouts and facilities for the horses to roam and train. Harrell and other volunteers teach the horses “ground manners” such as how to back-up and respect the trainer’s personal space.

“Many horses don’t have training,” says Nancy Stancel, board secretary and team trainer. “We assess the danger level of each horse.”

Each horse exhibits a different personality and level of training. Some horses like Josie need extreme medical attention and care before they train and condition on the road to recovery.

Volunteers need training as well for their safety before they gain the privilege of caring for the horses. Changing Leads hosts training sessions for volunteers several times each year.

The work involves far more than grooming or riding the horses. It’s hot, hard work shoveling manure, cleaning stables and lugging 50-pound hay bales and bags of grain.

“Out of a group of 10-15 people, we will get one or two good volunteers,” says Harrell. “It’s labor intensive. The horses get sick. Sometimes they are goofy or frightened. You have to be passionate about working with them. It’s not easy.”

Despite the labor, volunteers like Harrell, Adoption Coordinator Micah Dannar and Communications Coordinator Brandie Tryban care deeply about working with the horses.

Changing Leads finds a safe, suitable home for each horse when they are ready for adoption.

“Spirit was an Arabian rescue,” says Harrell. The horse was rescued from an auction

by a volunteer. “She was spooky and spacy but high-spirited. She knew every trick. We eventually found someone to adopt her.”

Prospective adopters must complete a detailed application that is reviewed by the board. More than 50 horses have been adopted since inception of the rescue program.

“Changing Leads checks their references and facility,” says Harrell. “New owners must sign a contract to never breed, race or use the horse commercially. Some adopted horses come back.

We ask that adopters call us first, if they cannot care for the horse.”

Working with rescued horses impacts the lives of the volunteers.

“The horses are a personal healing therapy,” says Hill of the experience. “There’s emotional bonding with the horse. You have to show up, be responsible and accountable as a volunteer. It’s good modeling for young adults and kids.”

Besides volunteers, Changing Leads relies on donated funds and supplies to operate.

“We receive funding from donations, grants, word-of-mouth and events like the annual Fuzzy Horse Show,” says Hill.

Funds go toward feed, supplies, medical treatment, medicine and maintainence. Changing Leads also maintains an extensive wish list for needed items that can be donated.

Visit ChangingLeadsEquineRescue.org to learn more about Changing Leads, current rescue horses like Josie and how to become involved in changing lives.

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Caring For Pets Is A Family Affair

at Elkhound Ranch Kennels Snuggles, Snacks and Rubbing Backs ARTICLE PEGGY PAROLIN PHOTOGRAPHY LANI ODELL

S

nuggles and snacks are free at Elkhound Ranch Kennels. They’re a part of the basic care package every pet receives while making this sprawling retreat their home away from home.

Nestled in the northland off Barry Road, this kennel and training academy first opened some 30 years ago, but the owners, Adam and Sara Munsterman, are relative newcomers.

They purchased the kennel in August of 2013 after a long search for “just the right” place.

Adam, a native Missourian, was raised on a farm near Appleton. His daily routine included caring for cattle, pigs, dogs, and horses throughout his childhood. After college and a degree in construction management, his focus shifted, taking him to New Mexico where he enjoyed a successful career and most importantly, met his wife, Sara. It was her love for animals, especially dogs that became a driving force in the couple’s creation of a family business.

“I wanted a career that would allow me to spend more time with my family, something we could participate in with our four children," Adam recalls. "Sara and I were brainstorming one night about building a business around what we loved most. I missed the satisfaction a farming lifestyle provided; it was a happy and healthy lifestyle. Sara’s passion has always been working with animals. Her love and respect for animals outweighs any I’ve ever seen. We agreed that caring for pets was something CONTINUED >

24

Northland Lifestyle | September 2015

September 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

25

CARING FOR PETS (CONTINUED)

we could do as a family, and at the same time, provide a much-needed service for others. It was the best of both worlds." So they started looking at kennels for sale.

"We found several in New Mexico, but then decided to look in my home state," says Adam. "The most appealing prospect, partially because of its sprawling 11-acre site, was Elkhound Ranch.

Its expansion possibilities made it a natural.”

Currently they have 102 runs with 55 indoor kennels and 47 indoor/outdoor runs.

“Pet owners with big dogs especially appreciate the indoor/outdoor runs," Adam says. "They’re 14-foot runs, with 4 feet indoors and 10 feet outside with a doggy door so the pets can go in and out. It’s nice knowing your pets have room to run.”

Since taking over the business, Adam and Sara have expanded services to offer several types of training, daycare and grooming.

They’re also prepared to accommodate handicapped pets. “We’ve cared for dogs with wheel chairs (supporting their back legs so they can walk) and we’ve had a few diabetic pets. We focus on doing the right thing for each and every customer.”

The core staff of Elkhound Ranch consists of numerous kennel techs, six family members, a groomer, and two trainers for obedience including on leash and off leash control and behavior modification And, “Yes," Sara confirms, "We do tend to treat the animals like children. The main thing we strive for is for our customers to feel like they’re taking their pets over to Adam and Sara’s home; we want them to feel we’re an extension of family.

“Owners care deeply about their pets. We have one boarder who brings homemade spaghetti for her dog to eat the entire time it’s here. And, of course, she also brings some for the employees. Some pet parents bring in binders of instructions on what they want for each individual day, when they want their dog walked, which packages and

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services (senior, spa, VIP) are wanted by the day. We even have a couple that brings an instruction manual of sorts on how to care for their pets, not just any pet, but theirs.”

It’s not uncommon for Sara to give out her cell number so parents can check on their pets. She’s also sent photos, videos and is adept at providing reassurance. No one has asked to talk to their dog on the phone…yet.

The best thing about working with the animals?

“It’s simply being with them," smiles Sara. “It’s winning them over. Sometimes pets are shy or fearful when they come in. After the first day, I’ve earned their trust and we’ve established a bond that will be there forever. The payoff is the relationship we establish with the animals and their owners.”

Long term, the owners of Elkhound Ranch want to make their business into a neighborhood icon. They’re working towards enhancing the site’s park-like appearance. Currently, they provide private walking trails and an off leash dog park, both open to the public.

“The more people learn about us, the more business we get," says Adam. “Last year Elkhound Ranch had 17,000 board nights; that’s about 48 dogs per night on average. That doesn’t include “Cat Nap Inn” where the feline friends hang out."

“What we really provide here is peace of mind,” Adam concludes.

“Everyday life events such as funerals, vacations, unexpected travel or even preplanned business travel may mean that someone’s pet needs care; we want to be here for them so they don’t have to worry.”

Both Adam and Sara agree they’ve made some amazing friendships with customers and their pets. "It’s been a rewarding start; some of our clients are also now our best friends," Adam says.

“We’re grateful for the overwhelming support and encouragement we’ve received from our new and existing customers. We’re truly blessed to be a part of this community.”

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Redefining Perfect:

Stanley the Teaching Pup Dog born with cleft palate teaches kids kindness and the importance of respecting individuality.

ARTICLE LISA ALLEN | PHOTOGRAPHY LANI ODELL

T

hey say it takes a village. The phrase is used often in reference to raising a child, but it’s also the phrase that kept coming to me as Deborah Pack told me about Stanley.

Pack has been a teacher for 18 years. She loves it, she says, so enthusiastically I wish I could write that in all capital letters and end with a string of exclamation points and happy face emojis. Pack’s passion for teaching is the same passion she has for pups (and goats and ducks) and her desire to make a difference in the lives of the children she teaches.

She started to see a change in those students, she says, over the years. The changes weren’t good.

“I noticed that so many kids were starting to think of themselves more than each other,” she says. “I saw bullying increase. I saw these young people exclude and criticize others for being heavy or wearing glasses, for not being perfect.

What is perfect, anyway? There is no such thing.”

So in 2003, Pack brought a baby goat—an orphan—into her classroom. As her students learned about the goat and worked together to take care of the animal, their dispositions changed. They began to interact in a more positive way.

Pack then brought in Lily and Lacy—ducks—to introduce the lesson of how we as people change and grow into who we are and Junior, a dog who was deaf. Her students taught him sign language commands. While giving these animals care and love and encouraging her students to do the same she saw an uptick in compassion and empathy that buoyed her and inspired to her do more.

Pack also brought a bulldog named Maddie into the classroom next. Maddie became a therapy dog but found her true calling in fund raising. She worked with firefighters and was a sensation at the kissing booth, where she raised an impressive amount of money.

People heard about the work Pack was doing with animals and would call her and ask if she could take their dogs. Not as a rescue, she says, but as part of her family. That’s how she met Oliver, affectionately known as Ollie.

Ollie’s owner contacted Pack so she went to visit. When she met Ollie, she met his brother Stanley, an English bulldog with a cleft palate. She’d never seen a dog with a cleft palate, she says; she didn’t even know such a thing existed.

“I took one look at Stanley and thought ‘we cannot leave him behind’" she says. “Those two boys were so close. We brought them both home.”

Then Pack started researching. She learned there’s very little information about dogs with cleft palates and even fewer medical professionals equipped with the knowledge to take care of them. And she watched Stanley: he couldn’t lie down because he couldn’t breathe properly.

Upon examination the doctor told Pack that Stanley had not one, but two holes in his sinuses and issues with his teeth. She was quoted $2,035.00 for surgery. She and her husband already had dogs at home they were taking care of, and didn’t

28

Northland Lifestyle | September 2015

have reserve funds to cover that expense. So they set out 10 jars in Smithville asking for help.

They raised the necessary funds in 20 days. When they returned to the surgeon for surgery, the doctor said Stanley was fine and to delay the surgery.

Pack knew better. She and her husband took Stanley to Blue Pearl in Overland Park where three surgeons examined him and agreed that he needed surgery. The Packs offered them the money they’d raised and asked if that would cover the procedure; after discussing it, the surgeons and owners of Blue Pearl offered to operate on Stanley for free.

“They wanted to be a part of his mission in helping kids learn about acceptance and to stop bullying,” says Pack. “People really do have open hearts and eyes of compassion that see. They really opened their hearts to Stanley.”

Stanley’s surgery was done and he’s happy and healthy, but his story isn’t over yet. He and Pack are busy raising awareness for pups like him and the message he’s become the face of: that there is something beautiful—and more importantly—worthy about each and every living being.

“There are no records kept of how many dogs are born with cleft palate,” says Pack. “We don’t know how many are destroyed because there’s no funding for research. The defect doesn’t just affect dogs; it also occurs in cows, horses, sheep, cats, and other animals. Stanley is lucky because his previous owners gave him a chance.

They sponge fed him every two hours instead of tube feeding him, which is more common but often results in aspiration and bacterial infections.

"When we adopted Stanley we did not want to change his outer appearance. That’s a cosmetic factor, and that’s not important. We only wanted to repair the damage that affected his health."

Recently Pack attended a Smithville city council meeting to discuss the issue, and the City of Smithville adopted April 21, 2015, as Stand Up for Stanley Day. Edgerton, Camden Point, and Kearney did the same. That was a good start for Pack, but it was just that: a start.

“I wrote the governor—bless his heart—and he opened his heart and issued a proclamation that March 24, 2015, is Stand Up Stanley Day for the entire State of Missouri,” she says.

“Stanley is different in so many ways,” says Pack. “It’s not just his face; his back legs are deformed. But he teaches us so much about compassion, kindness, love and generosity of heart. He shows us how to see others in a different light, how to redefine perfect, and that everyone, not just some, should be accepted.

He’ll be a part of Smile Train, an organization that helps children all over the world with cleft palates,” says Pack, “And we’re having a gathering to celebrate Stanley and Ollie’s first birthday October 10th, from 10 a.m. until noon, at Four Paws in Olathe. Everyone should come!”

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Page Turners

Unlikely Heroes 37 INSPIRING STORIES OF COURAGE AND HEART FROM THE ANIMAL KINGDOM

WRITTEN BY JENNIFER S. HOLLAND $13.95

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pod of dolphins who protected swimmers in New Zealand from a great white shark. A cat who provided comfort to soldiers in Afghanistan. A llama who shines his very special light of love on the elderly patients in an Oregon rehab center. A paralyzed bunny who brings joy to paralyzed children. An abandoned puppy who lost all four paws to frostbite—that’s him, smiling on the cover of the book—who learned to walk on prosthetics and inspires others with disabilities.

These are just some of the surprising and remarkable stories you’ll find in Unlikely Heroes: 37 Inspiring Stories of Courage and Heart from the Animal Kingdom (Workman; October 2014).

Jennifer S. Holland’s devotion to all species sent her on a journey to discover everything she could about the animal world. As she did in Unlikely Friendships and Unlikely Love, Holland proves even the tiniest of creatures is capable of great selfless acts and powerful emotion.

32

Northland Lifestyle | September 2015

As a writer for National Geographic, Holland’s interest in animal relationships grew, leading her to search the globe for unusual animal stories—first in the form of friendships, then loves and now heroes. During her research, she found tales of animals who saved their owners or other animals from danger, who look out for the lonely or injured, and who act as surrogate parents or help humans with conservation work. And in each account she found a common thread: animal heroes, no matter their species, act not for recognition or fame, but for more modest reasons—kindness, loyalty and love.

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Locally Owned

Gladstone Animal Clinic LIZARDS, SNAKES AND RATS--OH MY ARTICLE KENNETH L. KIESER | PHOTOGRAPHY LANI ODELL

M

ost veterinarian clinics are equipped to cure your dog or cat, but many pass on exotic creatures. Lizards, snakes, ferrets, rats or other unique pets need specialized care for sickness or injury and finding this unique service can be difficult.

Andrew Rambo, D.V.M. at the Gladstone Animal Clinic offers this unconventional service.

Rambo is the only veterinarian of seven at his clinic that will perform this type of specialized work. He generally gets cases other than dogs or cats and stays away from anything with gills or hooves. Reptiles and certain other animals are his specialty.

“I have three lizards, two turtles, one snake, and two rabbits waiting for surgery,” Rambo says. “I just finished a bird’s nail and beak trim. I get a lot of ferrets, hamsters and rabbits, all important to their owners. Each is a life worth saving.”

The talented and engaging veterinarian is occasionally surprised when people bring in wildlife. Possums, squirrels and other mammals are brought in, most hit by cars. Some are routed down to the Lakeside Nature Center, located by the Kansas City Zoo. Some refuse to drive that far and Rambo checks to see how injured each bird or animal is and if medical attention is possible.

Hawks or owls are common visitors to Rambo.

“We had a red tailed hawk come in a few years ago inside a Winnebago mobile home,” Rambo says. “The bird passed through the engine’s grill and was perched on the cooling hoses. We removed the bird and were surprised to find it only had a damaged wing.

We sent the hawk down to Lakeside Nature Center where they cured and eventually released the hawk.”

34

Northland Lifestyle | September 2015

Remarkably, most mammals are checked and treated the same because their anatomy is similar. This is a huge edge to treating unique pets.

“Mammals are mammals and they have the same heart and lungs,” Rambo says. “Dogs and cats have some variations and a ferret is a long, stretched out cat on the operating table. I have done very few operations on gerbils, but I have operated on rats and they pretty much have the same body structures. There are some differences with medicines for animals most text books don’t explain what types of medicine to give. But we have sources where this type of information is available. I figure it out to cure each pet.”

Surgery is a part of Rambo’s practice and some tend to be more unique than others. Recently a bearded dragon presented a strange case.

“The bearded dragon was not eating or acting right,” Rambo says.

“We took an x-ray and there was a funny little crescent-shaped item in the dragon’s stomach. Surgery turned up a Barbie plastic toy banana the dragon found and ate in Barbie’s Dream House.”

Rambo had a recent visit that he would rather forget.

“A customer brought a big python inside a trash can,” Rambo says. “It took three of us to handle the 12-foot snake and it had a problem with its mouth. The mouth was wider than both my open hands together. The snake opened its mouth and hissed at me. No one could have stopped that snake from grabbing my head. We cured the snake’s problem and happily sent it home.”

Does your pet have a problem? For more information about the Gladstone Animal Clinic, check their web site at GladVets.com. You can call the clinic at: 816.436.1100.

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Lifestyle Calendar

September SEPTEMBER 10

SEPTEMBER 25 - 27

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CITY HALL FOUNTAIN, HISTORIC DOWNTOWN LIBERTY

LIBERTY SQUARE

A style show in the City Hall Fountain area, followed by fabulous instore deals and refreshments. Plus enter a free raffle drawing! Bring your friends and join the fun! Don’t forget your lawn chairs!

Enjoy autumn breezes, virtual oceans of pumpkins interspersed with blooming mums in all the colors of fall, handcrafted gifts & unique items available nowhere else. Entertainment, parades, carnivals, music, dancing and boundless fun make up the Liberty Fall Festival. Hosted on and around the Liberty Square, the Fall Festival is unique in the Kansas City area. The festival is a shopper's delight with everything from handmade crafts to home grown fruits & vegetables. LibertyFallFest.com

SEPTEMBER 18 - 20 12TH ANNUAL ZONA ROSA ARTS FESTIVAL ZONA ROSA

This three day festival is free for the public to attend and features the talents of national and regional artists along with live musical, dance and community performances at Town Square.

SEPTEMBER 18 BLANCO Y NEGRO KANSAS CITY

Please join Guadalupe Centers, Inc at the premier awards banquet in the Latino community. Blanco y Negro acts as the formal kickoff to Hispanic Heritage Month in KC. This event supports youth scholarships, in addition to all services provided by KC’s oldest nonprofit, Guadalupe Centers. With a new campus in the northeast area, GCI now supports an even wider range of the KC population. The event includes dinner, dancing, live entertainment and more.

SEPTEMBER 19 10TH ANNUAL PAWS IN THE PARK ENGLISH LANDING PARK

Join us for the 10th Annual Paws in the Park! This event will raise money for the Parkville Animal Shelter with events like an adoptable dog parade, one mile dog walk, biscuit catching contest, canine costume contest and performances by the KC Disc Dogs! Enter the raffles, buy a treat for your pup from one of our vendors and have a great time! ParkvilleShelter.com/PawsInPark

SEPTEMBER 20 GET YOUR REAR IN GEAR 5K ZONA ROSA

Join the Kansas City Get Your Rear in Gear® 5K Run/Walk to help raise funds for colon cancer awareness efforts. Monies raised will stay in our community, helping with prevention, early detection and treatment, and healthy living projects for this disease. Enjoy refreshments, tech shirts and medals for age group winners. Get Your Rear in Gear provides a special opportunity to honor survivors and those lost to colon cancer in our community. Events.GetYourRearInGear.com 38

Northland Lifestyle | September 2015

SEPTEMBER 26 WHISPER WALK 5K ZONA ROSA

The annual 5K Whisper Walk/Run is an opportunity for those who have been touched by ovarian cancer to join together in memory of loved ones and to express their support for research and education efforts. This special event raises money and awareness for ovarian cancer education programs through the Vicki Welsh Ovarian Cancer Fund, a Kansas City-based ovarian cancer awareness fund.

GALLERY QUALITY FRAMING AT WAREHOUSE PRICES.

OCTOBER 1 - 4 GLADFEST FALL FEST LINDEN SQUARE

Gladfest is a fun family fall festival complete with a carnival, non‑stop entertainment, great foods, craft and commercial booth vendors, a kids' corner, model train exhibit, Saturday morning parade, dog show/competition and much more! Carnival only on Sunday.

OCTOBER 6 NEW NEIGHBORS NORTHLAND LADIES MONTHLY WELCOME COFFEE TIFFANY GREENS COMMUNITY CENTER

Come and meet your new neighbors at our monthly coffee meeting, held on the first Tuesday of each month. For more information, please visit NewNeighborsKansasCity.org.

CUSTOM FRAMING PRICES LOWER THAN CRAFT STORES.

Thank you Northland for 10 great years.

8642 N. Boardwalk Avenue Kansas City, MO 64154

816-584-8009 www.afwkc.com

September 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

39

business directory ANIMALS & ANIMAL CARE Wild Birds Unlimited (816) 415-4303 wbu.com/libertymo

ART & PHOTOGRAPHY Art & Frame Warehouse-Northland (816) 584-8009 afwkc.com

AUTOMOTIVE

Dentistry for Children (816) 548-3400 kidsdentistkc.com Dr Michael Byars DDS (816) 781-8222 byarsdental.com/northland

EDUCATION

College Nannies & Tutors (816) 256-5907 collegetutors.com/parkvillemo

Precision Collision Center (816) 781-9630 precisioncollisionkc.com

Northland Catholic Schools (816) 453-3450115 stpiusxhs-kc.com

CHARITIES & FUNDRAISERS

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION

Friends of Parkview Animal Shelter (816) 691-3023

Heartland Habitat For Humanity (RESTORE) (913) 648-6001 heartlandhabitat.org/restore

CHILD CAMPS, CARE & TUTORING

Show-Me Shooters Indoor Range (816) 452-4867 showmeshooters.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING Bank Liberty (816) 792-6621 banklibertykc.com

The Nibble Nook, LLC (816) 560-9270 thenibblenook.com

Equity Bank (913) 587-4322 bankpuppet.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Antioch Dental Group (816) 452-9700 fredbaileydds.com

Burleson Orthodontics (816) 533-7566 burlesonorthodontics.com

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Anu Aesthetics (816) 359-3310 anuaesthetics.com Conscious CafĂŠ (816) 492-6779

Northland Lifestyle | September 2015

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Seasonal Concepts (913) 642-4999 seasonalconceptsonline.com

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE

Geiger Elite Real Estate Group (816) 721-9400 geigerelitehomes.com

HOME SERVICES

Hunt Midwest Budget Blinds of the Northland Real Estate Development (816) 781-7925 and Kansas City huntmidwestkc.com (816) 505-5515 budgetblindskc.com The Rob Ellerman Team Reece & Nichols Realtors Complete Hardscapes LLC (816) 304-4434 (816) 984-0525 therobellermanteam.com completehardscapes.com Midwest Lifetime Roof Systems (913) 393-3008 lifetimeroofsystems.com

Wolfe-Sweeney & Associates LLC (816) 746-2777 wolfesweeney.com

Rock And Wall Landscape (816) 392-7262 rockandwalllandscape.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES Fairway Eye Center (913) 491-9123 fairwayeyecenter.com

Pediatric Care North (816) 587-3200 pediatriccarenorth.com Weston Family Clinic & Medical Spa (816) 640-2762 wfcmedspa.com

OTHER

Meyers Funeral Chapel (816) 741-0251 meyersfuneralchapel.com

The Rim (816) 883-8996 the-rim.com

SALONS & SPAS Sunlighten Day Spa (913) 754-0831 sunlighten.com

SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES

McCrite Plaza at Briarcliff (816) 888-7930 mccritekc.com Senior Helpers (816) 455-9300 seniorhelpers.com/ kansascitynorth

HIGH SCHOOL

ST. PIUS X

we want

YOU live it. to

be

love it.

u High expectations for student behavior & achievement u 98% of SPX graduates go on to college u Faith based curriculum/value-centered approach in every class u Exceptional academic achievement & athletic success u 90% of SPX students are involved in one or more of our 35 sports & activities u College credit classes u Cultivation of leadership skills through classes & activities

S P X

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I

I September 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

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Parting Thoughts

The Joy of Dakota WORDS RACHEL C. MURPHY

PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTOPHER T. MURPHY

F

amily. Everyone has a different definition of the word. In the last seven years, our definition of family extended to include my new brother-in-law, Steve, and his two Chihuahuas, CJ and Dakota.

My sister, Serena, and I never had pets growing up. I'm allergic to cats and dogs are expensive (you were right on that one, Mom and Dad) and they limit mobility for a family that loved the impromptu road trip. So when my sister married Steve, she got a crash course in pet ownership with two of the most well-trained and loving Chihuahuas ever born.

CJ and Dakota were a matched set. CJ was the male and much smaller than Dakota, while Dakota, against all odds, was born and survived with a cleft palate. Her tongue perpetually stuck out of her mouth, a saucy visage for a demanding but loving dog. They came when called, survived Omaha winters in tiny dog boots and gave my dogs no end of grief for not also being Chihuahuas.

When my sister and her family found themselves in deployments where it was difficult for the dogs to come along, they lived with my parents, the dog protestors. They loved them but also missed the ability to go when they wanted to. When CJ had a heart attack and passed away while my sister was in Oklahoma, they felt the sting of loss that they hadn't felt since they were kids with dogs of their own.

When my sister deployed to England, Dakota stayed with Mom and Dad, this time as dog, comforter and house snuggler. Dakota, for all her mouth issues, never missed a meal and looked a little like a burrito. Her staunch little body would waddle around the house, finding blankets to wrap herself in and laps to burrow into, forever regretting the trip north from Texas.

So when my father called at 7 a.m. a month ago, sobbing, I knew something was horribly wrong.

"She's gone," cried the man that complained nonstop about her whining and attention-seeking tactics.

Dakota, at more than 12 years old, had a seizure. As they rushed her to the hospital, she had another. The vets said that she may have had a tumor, water on the stomach or a host of other issues.

After calling my sister and brother-in-law in England, they made the decision to let her leave peacefully.

It was only then, once she was gone, that my father could verbalize how much she had meant to him. During a layoff, she kept him company in his home office as he searched for work, meaning and who he was. She was his coworker, confidant and unwitting photo subject. As he talked to me, he asked the question that so many have asked themselves when their pets have passed: why do we do it?

I searched my heart and tried to say the words that felt right.

"We do it because when they are here, they do everything perfectly. They love unconditionally, live joyfully and without regret. They give us the companionship that we don't know that 42

Northland Lifestyle | September 2015

we need at the time. They leave their mark on you and it hurts when they go but you're still glad that they stayed," I said. It felt trite and hollow but true.

There's no explaining the bond that a person develops between their pets or even their children's pets. It's strong and true and ephemeral and lasts long after their small or big bodies cease to breathe. They give us the memories of what joy looked like, whether it was chasing a rabbit, or picking through snowdrifts in tiny boots for desert dog feet or crunching on carrots as if they were fine caviar. Dakota lived a long life, full of love and laughter, not just from her owners but from our whole family.

As I look at my two dogs I know that someday I'll have to soothe myself with the same ideas. I'll be unconsolable as they are truly my most constant companions. I want them to be immortal, but nothing perfect lasts forever. So we cherish the time we have and enjoy our family, furry or not. I wouldn't have it any other way.

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Meyers Funeral Chapel northland

The Meyers Funeral Chapel family welcomes you to our completely renovated, open-concept funeral home, with elegant finishes and modern touches. We are conveniently located in the quaint setting of downtown Parkville.

As we start our seventh year as members of this community, we sincerely express our gratefulness for your friendship and trust. —Todd, Nikki, Evan & Avery DeMint

401 Main St. Parkville, MO

MeyersFuneralChapel.com 816.741.0251