HAPPY ANIMALS Early Spring 2016
Valley
Early Spring 2016
Celebrating Creatures & Community-
The Waiting Room Can you adopt one (or two) of these sweethearts? Some have been waiting and waiting ... Hello, I’m Jessie. I’m a sweet girl who is looking for a nice relaxing home filled with love. I’m a pretty quiet lady who enjoys head scratches and snuggling up with my peopleespecially on cold days. I’m 5 years old and have lived with other cats before and would enjoy their company, but I’m not too keen on dogs. I’m easy going and would do well with older kids who just want to relax with me while we watch our Saturday morning cartoons. I am FIV+ (FIV positive), which an adoption counselor here at Dakin in Leverett can explain. Come meet me!
JESSIE I’m a young girl, just 3 years old, looking for a quiet home to call my own, and I hope it’s yours! I will need time to warm up to you but once I do, I will dance with joy every time I see you. I love to play with tennis balls and am happiest when I am playing. I would do best in a home where I’m the only dog. I haven’t had experience with cats so if you have felines in the home ask a Dakin staff member how this would go. Older children would probably be fine with me. If you think I might be the dog for you please ask a Dakin team member at the Leverett Adoption Center for more information.
PRINCESS
Hello, I’m Grey Munchkin! I’m a handsome and affectionate man of 8 who has peacefully lived with other cats. I have even lived with a Shih Tzu! I am a bit shy at first, but once I warm up, I will be your best friend! I love to play with a variety of toys, even rope! If you would like to learn more about me, stop in and ask an adoption counselor at Dakin for more information, because I’m currently in foster care.
GREY MUNCHKIN Why hello, I am Princess Kitty. I am shy around strangers, but I’m very sweet, and once I get to know you I will love you dearly for the rest of my life. I would prefer to live in a home that does not have young children, they make me nervous. I have gotten along with dogs and cats. I love to play with toys and laser pointers and enjoy catnip! My last family says that my best quality is that I am very affectionate and loving, I just need time to get to know you. So if I sound like a good match for you, come visit me today!
PRINCESS KITTY More information about these and other animals awaiting new homes can be found online at www.dpvhs.org or by calling the Dakin Adoption Centers in Springfield (413-781-4000) or Leverett (413-548-9898). 2 Happy Valley Animals
CONTENTS
2 The Waiting Room
20 Feline Friend
Feral Cats: Trap, Neuter, Release
5 Welcome
by Elizabeth Strole
Sue Ellen of Fauna Sanctuary by Gloria Grow
6 Emergency
& Specialty Care
23 TJO’s Stray Talk
Understanding MCT and Treatment Options
Days as a Shelter Vet by Dr. E. Lauren Atkins
by Dr. Andy Abbo
8 Animal
24 Animals Speak
Behavior & Training
A Letter from Maya Mouse
Learn to Read Your Dog
by Marian Kelner
by Shannon Fitzgerald
10 Book Excerpt
Love Heals Baby Elephants: Rebirthing Ivory Orphans by Mary Baures
13 Dharma Wolf Just Roll With It
by Melinda Thomas
16 Happiest Animal(s)
Ginger & Dallas
17 Animal
Artistry
N. J. Wight
25 Dogeared Publisher: Nestling Press Editor: Elissa Alford Mail: P. O. Box 112, Northampton, MA 01060 Phone: (413) 695-4605 Email: happyvalleyanimals@comcast.net Happy Valley Animals is published bi-monthly (6x/year) and distributed free throughout Hampshire, Hampden, Franklin, & Berkshire counties and Northern CT. Please note that photos and stories submitted by mail cannot be returned. We encourage readers to patronize our advertisers, but cannot be responsible for individual advertising claims or offers. We reserve the right to refuse to publish advertising for any reason, and assume no financial responsibility for failure to publish an advertisement or for typographical errors. All original content copyright (c) 2016 Happy Valley Animals. Original content contained herein can not be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.
The Wolf in the Parlor:
The Eternal Connection Between Humans and Dogs
Reviewed by Sarah Meikle
27 Dakin Dispatch Spay/Neuter Myths by Lee Chambers
30 Helpful
Humans
31 In Memoriam Greta Rose Smith
Cover Painting: Janet Evander janetevander.com Happy Valley Animals 3
CLOA’S ARK ANIMAL SANCTUARY Greenfield, MA “The Land of Permanent Miracles for Many Animals” www.cloark.com or cloasark.org
WAYS TO HELP
OUR MISSON
Use Our Services
1) Rescue Animals Provide exceptional care and love for neglected, rejected, abandoned, or abused animals, including medical treatment if needed. 2) Make Them Happy Create a natural interaction between animals and humans by giving them conditions as close to what they need as possible, allowing mutual trust so they can heal and live in peace and joy. 3) Raise Consciousness About Our Relationship with Animals. Change the way we feel about animals in general and farm animals in particular— they are all sentient beings, like us, with needs, feelings, and strong family ties. They deserve to be happy!
Patrick and Claudine Veistroffer
OUR SANCTUARY NEEDS A PERMANENT HOME
We found the perfect place for our animals here in Greenfield, which we have been renting for almost two years. Now the landlord wants to sell the property. We have a commitment to fulfill, to keep the sanctuary going, and to do so we must find a different property of 5 to 6 acres. Whenever we pool our resources together we can make a difference and make things happen! Choose from love always, go within and listen to your heart, and give generously for the sake of the animals. Take action now, and imagine a world where there is only love. Please send any donations to our mailing address or through Paypal on our website. Thank you!
4) Provide Educational Programs Offer everyone the opportunity to discover the beauty and healing power of animals with a sanctuary tour, perhaps leading some to seek an immersion experience or internship program. 5) Carry a Message About Peace to Animals Raise awareness and disseminate information about the cruelty inflicted on many animals, including the way that farm animals, race dogs, and various birds are treated and despised from their birth to their last day, and giving voice to these misunderstood animals! Show that most of these animals when loved behave like the ones we call pets, so why treat them differently?
We are a 501c3 non-profit and depend on your tax-deductible donations. NO donation is too small, and can be made through our website using Paypal, or by
Animal Boarding We have a lot of experience in taking care of many animals. Whether you leave for days, weeks, or months, we will love and provide them with happiness Expertise On Birds We have been living and loving birds for over 10 years, and have acquired a vast experience, and expertise on feeding, cleaning, and making birds happy! Knowledge On Animal Shelters, Aviaries, Coops and Fences. We can help plan, and build your enclosure, ranging from fencing, sheds, aviaries, to permanent shelters.Our fencing and shelters are cost-effective, and can be assembled quickly. Please call us to discuss your needs!
Donate Items for Use or Sale We can pick up the items you would like to donate to the shelter for shelter use or for sale. Anything you think is worth something we will use, repair, and/or sell—thank you!
We hope to inspire others through an example of total dedication and commitment to the daily care and compassion we give rescued animals, and to help humans with special needs discover the genuine, profound, and healing relationships and love that animals offer us all. Would you like to visit or volunteer? Please give us a call at 413-325- 8782 or email patrick@cloark.com. 24 Factory Rd., Greenfield, MA 01301
MAILING ADDRESS/PHONE 24 Factory Hollow Greenfield, MA 01301 413-325-8782
PLEASE NOTE THAT OUR MISSION IS TO CARE FOR ANIMALS
OTHER THAN CATS AND DOGS. FOR HELP WITH A CAT OR DOG, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL SHELTER.
WELCOME Dear Readers, a quick explanation. Having visited Fauna Santuary in Montreal, I want to share with you the story of its most elderly resident chimpanzee, Sue Ellen, pictured just below. You will learn about her through the writing of an extraordinary woman, Founder Gloria Grow. E.A.
Sue Ellen Fauna Foundation, Montreal Birthday: March 17, 1968
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Text by Gloria Grow, Founder and Director of the Fauna Foundation
Dear little Sue Ellen is a remarkable little chimpanzee, whose life has been so hard, for so long and for so many reasons. Sue Ellen is one of those chimpanzees who has crossed through many worlds and none of them the world she was born to be part of. She has lived many different lifestyles, taken from her mother as a baby and raised by humans, where she would go into the entertainment world, where there is so much abuse and suffering. After 15 years in that life, she was sold again, but this time to LEMSIP, a research laboratory, where she would be subjected to life in a small cage, frightened and scared all the time, abused and violated in some of the most unimaginable ways. When Sue Ellen challenges us, or gets angry with us, we must always remember her background and her suffering.
Over the years, Sue Ellen has had many friends and many losses, each one taking another piece of her heart away with them. From the early years, her friends Billy Jo, Annie, Donna Rae, Tommy, Pablo, Jeannie, and more recently her dear sweet Pepper. As I look back on these friendships she had, I see how truly difficult her life has been. She was blessed to have these friends, but the loneliness she must feel is obvious. Sue Ellen enjoys life’s simple pleasures, such as sitting out in the morning sun from her favourite lookout in the skywalk near the front gate and waiting for all her human friends to arrive at Fauna. She also enjoys eating her breakfast leisurely while the day unfolds continues on page 9 Happy Valley Animals 5
THE BEST HEALTH ... Understanding MCT and Treatment Options Early Detection and Treatment are Key
SPECIALTY CARE: Dr. Andy Abbo, MS, DACVIM (Oncologist)
Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital (VESH)
Dr. Andy Abbo What are mast cells and mast cell tumors? Mast cells are a special type of blood cell that is normally involved in the body’s response to allergens and inflammation. Sometimes these cells can become cancerous and develop into mast cell tumors. Mast cell tumors (MCT) are most commonly found as skin tumors but other sites may include the spleen, liver, bone marrow, and intestine. MCTs are considered malignant tumors that have the ability to spread to other organs are the most common skin tumors we see in dogs. While we know a lot about the biological behavior of mast cell tumors, it is still difficult to predict how they will behave in an individual dog. Mast cell tumors are most commonly diagnosed by performing a fairly quick and painless procedure called a fine needle aspirate, which involves putting a needle into a tumor and drawing out some cells to be sent for analysis to a laboratory. Biopsies may also be performed in order to obtain tissue or laboratory analysis, but most of the time a fine needle aspirate is sufficient for diagnosis. What happens if my dog is diagnosed with MCT? 6 Happy Valley Animals
It’s important to know that most dogs have an excellent prognosis, especially if detected and treated early and the MCT is fairly localized and small. Also, dogs that develop multiple mast cell tumors over their lifetime do not necessarily have a negative outlook! Once your dog is diagnosed with MCT, the recommended next step includes performing a variety of tests to understand the extent of the disease in your pet. These tests may include a complete blood count (CBC), serum chemistry profile, regional lymph node aspirate, and an abdominal ultrasound to look at the liver and spleen to check for the presence of other tumors. In some situations a bone marrow aspirate to look for mast cells may also be recommended. These tests are called “staging tests” and the goal of performing these tests are to make sure that the disease has not spread prior to surgically removing the tumor. The biological behavior of these tumors can be difficult to predict. The most important predictor of prognosis is the “grade” of the tumor, which simply stated is a rating system that tries to define the degree of how abnormal the cells are present in your pet. The grade can only be determined with a biopsy and is based on microscopic evaluation by a pathologist. The biopsy sample is often obtained after surgery. There are two different grading systems utilized – one that includes a low (Grade I), intermediate (Grade 2) and high (Grade 3) grade designation, and one that is similar to the prior with the exception of differentiating the Grade 2 tumors into “ Low-Grade 2” and “High-Grade 2” designations. Low-Grade (Grade I) tumors are unlikely to spread therefore complete surgical removal of the tumor may be the only treatment required. High-Grade (Grade 3) tumors are more likely to spread and because of this high risk for metastasis, chemotherapy in addition to local therapy, such as surgery or radiation may be recommended. Historically it has been the nebulous Grade 2 tumor that is the most difficult to predict. Most Low-Grade
II tumors behave in a less aggressive manner, and most High-Grade II tumors have the potential to behave like Grade 3 tumors. This is why staging of your pet’s MCT is important to determine proper treatment options. Additional features that are evaluated in an attempt to predict the behavior of a mast cell tumor consist of the size of the tumor, growth rate, location, the mitotic rate, and the c-kit mutation status. The mitotic rate is basically a measurement of how many dividing cells are present that indicate how rapidly a tumor is dividing. The more rapidly a tumor is dividing, the more aggressive it may behave. In addition it is now possible to evaluate the tumor for a mutation in a gene known as c-kit. A mutation in this gene may lead to the mast cell tumor behaving in a more aggressive manner. Tumors that are small, slow growing and located on the haired skin often have a less aggressive biological behavior, as opposed to those that are large, rapidly growing, ulcerated or are located in the mouth, muzzle, ears and groin. In certain breeds of dogs such as Pugs, Boston Terriers and Boxers, the mast cell tumors may behave less aggressively. Also, it is important to note that dogs that develop multiple mast cell tumors do not have a worse prognosis when the lesions are controlled locally as compared to dogs that have only one mast cell tumor. What are my pet’s treatment options? Treatment options for mast cell tumors on the skin may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and/or supportive care. Surgery is the primary means of controlling the tumors because these tumors are generally invasive, therefore a veterinary surgeon must remove the tumor with a large margin of normal tissue both around and underneath the tumor to ensure complete removal. Mast cell tumors are deceptive and sometimes what we can see and feel represents only a small part of the tumor.
...THE MOST HAPPINESS Even when a large margin is removed, there may still be tumor cells left behind. When this occurs, additional treatment is needed otherwise there is a risk that the tumor might regrow. Options include another larger surgery or radiation therapy. It may not be possible to perform more surgery due to the location of the tumor (for example, tumors on the leg are difficult to completely remove because there is not much extra skin). In this case, radiation therapy is a good alternative and is very effective at preventing local recurrence of these tumors. Chemotherapy may also be beneficial in patients that have tumors that have already spread to other sites in the body or for tumors that are too large or in a location where surgery and radiation may not be the best option. Chemotherapy may be recommended after surgery and/or radiation therapy if there is a high risk of spread. The first line of treatment for mast cell tumors is often a combination of vinblastine and prednisone. This protocol has a 40-50% chance of decreasing the size of a mast cell tumor. Chemotherapy is likely to be more effective
when used as a follow-up to treat microscopic levels of disease. The length of time a patient remains on chemotherapy will depend on whether or not there is measurable disease as well as how well the tumor responds. Patients that have measurable disease or metastasis may be on chemotherapy indefinitely whereas patients that are receiving chemotherapy as a precaution may only receive treatment for a few months. Chemotherapy in pet animals is generally well tolerated, with severe side effects noted in less than 5% of dogs treated with chemotherapy. A new class of drug called a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (Palladia) is now available as a treatment option for mast cell tumors. These drugs work quite differently than traditional chemotherapy and their mechanism of action is that they that inhibit receptors on the surface of the cancerous mast cells. These drugs are most useful in dogs whose tumors exhibit the c-kit mutation, when chemotherapy is not effective, or if long term therapy following chemotherapy is needed. Although these drugs are different from chemotherapy, the side effects are
similar to chemotherapy, and can cause gastrointestinal upset as well as lower the white blood cell count. As mentioned before, dogs that develop multiple mast cell tumors over their lifetime do not necessarily have a negative outlook. Early detection and treatment will increase the likelihood of successful treatment. In any dog that has had a mast cell tumor, we recommend that any future “lumps and bumps” be evaluated because dogs that have had one mast cell tumor are at greater risk for developing additional mast cell tumors. The easiest, least invasive and least costly test to rule out a mast cell tumor is a fine needle aspirate. Once a mast cell tumor is diagnosed further individualized recommendations can be made that best meet the needs of your pet and your family. If you pet has recently been diagnosed with cancer, ask your veterinarian for a referral to Dr. Abbo at VESH, or call VESH at 413-665-4911 to schedule a consult.
Bronson Beats MCT Bronson is an adorable 10-year-old Chihuahua who has been a patient of our board certified oncologist, Dr. Andy Abbo, since November of last year. Bronson just celebrated a special day in February—his last appointment for chemotherapy! Bronson was initially diagnosed with a High-Grade Mast Cell Tumor on his left flank. Following surgery to remove that tumor, he started on a chemotherapy regiment that was given on a weekly basis for 9 weeks. Bronson’s treatment went flawlessly and we are happy to celebrate him being cancer free! He will now come in every 3 months to see Dr. Abbo just to check on his progress and make sure things are still going well. As you can see in the photo, Bronson celebrated appropriately with crown and bandanna, and he paraded around our waiting room to let everyone know it was his special day. Let’s hear it for Bronson!
Happy Valley Animals 7
ANIMAL BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
Learn to Read Your Dog by Shannon Fitzgerald, Leading theWay
We know dogs communicate with barks, whines
and other vocal sounds. However, dogs use nonverbal communcation more than verbal lanaguage. A common form is calming signals. These signals help dogs maintain a healthy social connection and avoid conflict. Dogs calm one another and diffuse stress or aggression using calming signals and help resolve conflict between them. Dogs and puppies also use calming signals to communicate with people, too, if they feel threatened or want to calm you down. For instance, when you find a housebreaking accident and get upset, even though your puppy may not understand what he’s done wrong, he’ll “act guilty.” He’s not really guilty. He’s using appeasement or calming signals to show that he intends no harm. Try to lessen the stress of the the moment. Common Calming Signals Licking is a signal that is used often. The quick little lick on the nose is easier to see if you watch the dog from the front, especially if you can find somewhere to sit in peace and quietly observe. Once you have learned to see the lick, you’ll also be able to see it while walking the dog. Sometimes it’s nothing more than a very quick lick. The tip of the tongue is barely visible outside the mouth, and only for a short second. But other dogs see it, understand it, and respond to it. Any signal is always returned with a signal-- most dogs will turn away or show turning of the head. A dog can turn their head slightly to one side, turn the head completely to the side, or turn completely around, so that their back and tail are facing whoever the dog is calming.
8 Happy Valley Animals
The Play Bow. This is a very common and wellknown calming signal: going down with front legs in a bowing position. It can be an invitation to play if the dog is moving legs from side to side in a playful manner. Just as often, the dog is standing still while bowing and is using the signal to calm someone down. These signals often have double meanings and may be used in many different ways. Often the invitation to play is a calming signal in itself, because the dog is making a potentially dangerous situation less tense. Sniffing the ground is a frequently used signal. In groups of puppies, you will often see this. You’ll also see this when you and your dog are out walking and someone is coming towards you, or in places where there’s a lot going on, in noisy places, or when the dog sees an object that he isn’t sure of and finds intimidating. Sniffing the ground may be anything from moving the nose swiftly down toward the ground and back up again to sticking the nose to the ground and sniffing persistently for several minutes. Walking slowly. High speed movement will be seen as threatening to many dogs; they might want to try and stop the one who is running. This is partly a hunting behavior triggered by the sight of a running human or dog. If the one who is running is coming straight at the dog, it can indicate a threat and a defense mechanism sets in. Freezing. This is the term for a dog being statuestill while standing, sitting, or laying down and remaining in that position. Sometimes they will also divert their eyes to avoid eye contact. Sitting down/lifting one paw. Though it’s not common, dogs sometimes lift their paw as a calming signal. Sneezing. You’ll see a dog sneeze persistently when nervous, super excited, or when encountering stressful situations. As with lifting a paw, this is a less common signal. Sitting Down. An even stronger signal is to sit down with the back turned towards someone. This
has a very calming effect. It’s often seen when one dog wants to calm another dog who is approaching too quickly. Dogs may also sit down with their backs turned against the owner when he or she sounds too strict or angry. Meet on a curve. Dogs should naturally meet each other on a curve, or approach on the side, rather than head on. It’s important to allow your dog to meet on a curve, on or off your leash. This allows for the greeting to be polite. How to Use Calming Signals An ideal time to use calming signals is when you are meeting a dog you don’t know. If a dog acts fearfully towards you, or is showing signs of stress, you can settle the dog by offering the same calming signals that dogs use amongst each other. First, slow down. Turning your head away and averting your gaze is an easy signal to make. If the dog is still stressed, you can turn your entire body to the side, or even turn your back on the dog. If you act like you’re ignoring the dog you’ll be showing calming signals, and the dog with be more likely to approach you. You can also use a “walk through.” Simply walk between the two facing dogs or people. Note that when two people or dogs face each other it can be perceived as aggressive to another dog. To maintain peace, the third dog will walk through. It’s often thought that when dogs walk between humans this is based on jealousy of humans showing affection. In face, when humans face each other, as in a hug, to a dog it’s perceived to be possible aggression, and a walk though is warranted to keep the peace. Established in 1992, Leading the Way is dedicated to enhancing the relationship of our two- and four-legged clients. Family owned & operated with 25 years of experience in training and education. Established by Shannon Fitzgerald & Melissa Mehlman, with the very best care! We share our knowledge through doggie daycare, all levels of dog training plus trick training, therapy dog training, show training, AKC Canine Good Citizen and behavior modification in order to build strong canine-human partnerships based on love and respect. Located at 18 Chestnut St. in Florence, 413- 559-7011, www.leadingthewaydogtraining.net.
continued from page 5 around her. Sue Ellen has always enjoyed exploring and can often be found far and away from the building in the skywalks. She loves to wear things. So, on the days when she is not covered up with a sheet or blanket, she will usually have on a necklace, scarf or some other item, usually something
exotic like a pasta necklace around her waist.
In September of 2013, Sue Ellen had the opportunity to get to meet a new chimpanzee friend. Her name is Tatu and she is from Ellensburg, Washington.
She is one of the remaining group of chimpanzees who were taught American Sign Language (ASL), years ago in the sign language studies. Tatu and her chimpanzee brother, Loulis, have lost most of their family too. She and Loulis arrived at Fauna on August 28, 2013. We have hopes of them finding some new friendships and adventures in their lives after their losses. They have a lot in common and hopefully they can develop a special friendship in the coming years.
Sue Ellen is Fauna’s eldest resident and her lifestyle now at Fauna is quite laid back and relaxing. Her frail and arthritic body restricts her from living in a large social group, so quiet times with a new friend or two might be just the retirement she needs. Loulis has met Sue Ellen too. He is the adopted son of the late Washoe, one of the first chimpanzees to learn ASL and he was taught sign language by her. He is a very special fellow and he has been so wonderful with Sue Ellen; kind, considerate and respectful. As we experience these special moments between Tatu, Sue Ellen and Loulis, we realize how important friendships are to them. Supportive relationships, even when new, are essential and show us how remarkable chimpanzees are.
Fauna Foundation’s Mission The primary objective of Fauna Foundation is to create a protected environment for neglected, abused farm and domestic animals and former biomedical research chimpanzees. We aim, through education, to foster a better understanding of all animals while exploring our ethical responsibility as humans for the well being of all earth’s creatures. Our Sister Organization — Fauna Sanctuary Inc. In 2002, Fauna Foundation created a sister organization, the Fauna Sanctuary Inc, which is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit charity in the United States. Fauna Sanctuary Inc. was established to help provide chimpanzees in sanctuaries with a quality life through the development and maintenance of a physical, emotional and social environment that best promotes their well-being and provides for their needs, as much as captivity allows. Fauna Sanctuary Inc. helps provide funding for special projects and capital campaigns to help achieve these goals. In addition, Fauna Sanctuary Inc. funds educational programs and outreach efforts related to the lives of chimpanzees in captivity, their use in entertainment, research and as pets.
DO YOU WANT TO HELP? The donations and support we get from people just like you around the world, who share our love and commitment to the residents of Fauna, comes in many forms. We are grateful for your financial help, so we can care for those who call Fauna home. Caring for the residents is very costly. The annual cost to care for just one chimpanzee is no less than $20,000 per year. Much of that goes to pay for food and medicine. Other costs include maintenance and daily operations.
PLEASE GO TO FAUNAFOUNDATION.ORG & FAUNASANCTUARY.ORG TO LEARN MORE AND TO: Donate * Become a Fauna Member * Adopt-a-Chimp * Purchase Everyday Items on Amazon * Donate Points or Rewards Program Items
Happy Valley Animals 9
BOOK EXCERPT become monsters. In addition to the armed gangs in helicopters, local tribesmen seeking to trade ivory for cash, attack them with guns, poisoned arrows and spears. Two calves, Barsilinga and Zongoloni, were found bravely protecting dying mothers who had been shot. Zongoloni comforted her mother with her trunk. Refusing to leave, she drank urine to survive. Fear of humans saved the life of Rorogi. Still milk-dependent, he miraculously survived for a month on his own. He was near the village of the Duruma tribe, who have a taste for elephant meat. Luckily, he found refuge on a farm with dense thickets to hide in, vegetation to eat, and water. Secretive and quiet, he evaded notice by farm workers. The owner caught a glimpse of him and called anti-poaching rangers. Skilled at hiding, he vanished into dappled shadows for 24 hours before rangers caught him. His avoidance of people hints at the human savagery he must have witnessed when he lost his family.
Orphaned baby elephants scurry back from the field. Wobbly trunks
guide pudgy shapes with flapping ears. Orange, red, and green blankets shield their skin from the sun, because babies in the wild move in their mothers’ shade. Caretakers in green coats and white safari hats trot with them. When the orphans see a line of keepers holding bottles of milk, dust explodes at their feet. They break into a gallop toward the keepers, where they wiggle in anticipation of the bottle. As they suck, they stare with rapt attention at their new human family. Here, at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi, human love is healing human cruelty, although nothing will take away the memories of what made this orphanage necessary. Calves hear their families screaming in pain, then watch them mutilated for their ivory. After their mother never emerges from her body, they begin a harrowing ordeal. Terrified, they wander around alone and confused. Without their mothers’ milk they can only survive three weeks. Every night threatens to set lions afoot. Who they were was part of a family, leaning against or touching their mothers most of the time. Their mother was helped by nannies - aunts, sisters, and cousins - who followed, fondled, and fussed over them and responded to their squeaky cries for help. Their eyesight is poor and some fall down wells. Those who try to join other herds are not embraced. Sometimes they wiggle tiny trunks into car windows looking for help, but they never know when people will 10 Happy Valley Animals
For Elephants, family is everything.
Other tragedies are from human-wildlife conflict. On May 15, 2014, the Kenyan Wildlife Service shot an elephant who killed a woman. The entire herd stampeded, leaving tiny Mbegu behind. The Kimanjo community speared her in revenge. The injured calf sought refuge in a school but was stoned by the children. The warden of the nearby Naibunga Conservancy rescued Mbegu and secured her in a classroom, while his personnel calmed the agitated community baying for her blood. Traumatized and bleeding from several spear wounds, Mbegu crumpled against a wall. Soon keepers from the orphanage arrived to protect her, clean her cuts, and give her milk. Thankfully, all of her wounds healed without infection. Ishaq B miraculously survived for a month without her mother, because she befriended a baboon troop, who dropped mangoes on the ground for her. When she was finally rescued, her wounded knee was treated by the orphanage veterinarian. Then she was wrapped in a purple blanket, and the other orphans were brought to welcome her. As their little trunks caressed her, she sensed the
other babies were not afraid of their keeper and allowed him to kiss her forehead. As a clinical psychologist who specializes in trauma recovery, I have adopted four traumatized baby elephants. Since I adopted my first baby elephant in 2006, there has been a dramatic increase in poaching. Elephant populations are in free-fall. The ten million elephants of a century ago have dropped to less than 300,000, all precious remnants of a dying race. Every year, more than 15 percent are butchered. An estimated 35,000 elephants were killed last year. To quote Edmund Burke, “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil, is for good men to do nothing.” Good people are fighting back, but will it be enough to save this majestic species? Curbing the demand for ivory is the key to halting the killing, but it is a monumental task. Meanwhile, people are doing what they can to help the most helpless victims of the ivory wars. PEOPLE ADOPT THEM Powerful tools of social media have enabled their stories to go viral. The cruelty inflicted on them wrings compassion from people around the world who donate to save them. Through monthly photos and news, foster parents witness a marvelous transformation. Withdrawn into a dark world without their mothers, grieving calves are like a tight bud. Gradually, tenderness nudges open terror’s grip. A poem, “The Bud” by Galway Kinnell, describes this process: “Sometimes it is necessary to reteach a thing its loveliness—to put a hand on the brow of the flower and retell it in words and in touch it is lovely until it flowers again from within at self-blessing.” Opening to love, they bloom with surefootedness and joy. As they recover, photos of little wrinkled calves tottering around in bright coats with ears fluttering are a gift of grace. A calf does not know what to do with his wiggly trunk, which has 100,000 muscles. When not using it to reach, touch, or smell, he tosses it up and down, whacks himself with it, or sucks it like a thumb. Their faces are both sweet and comical.
Elephants are kindred spirits. Like humans, they have long lifespans, similar developmental stages, and complex neurobiology. They have empathy and come to the aid of others in distress. Foster parents watch their calves develop distinctive personalities. After all the savagery done to them, calves meet the world with good hearts. The orphans are not doomed to succumb to the vicious things done to them. They can manage, endure, and triumph. Nestled in acacias and Ipomoea creepers with delicate white flowers, their new home is a magical place with a deep reverence for life. Magpies, starlings, and crickets twitter marching music to men in green coats pushing wheelbarrows piled high with giant bottles of milk. A warthog patched up after a lion attack and her four piglets trot behind them. The warthog, the men’s shoes, and the bushes at the edge of the paths are fringed with yellow dust, like pollen, an Indian symbol of rebirth. On both sides of the trail, orphans are chewing leaves, drinking water, or nuzzling each other through the slats of their stalls. The elephant holocaust filled the orphanage to capacity in 2013. To hold 44 residents, more stables had to be built. Older, stabilized calves were sent to one of the rehabilitation facilities. Vurea, who almost died of milk deprivation, is bellowing for another bottle. At a public viewing, he tried to trick the keepers into giving him another jug by washing the milk from his mouth and standing in line again.
***
FAR AWAY FROM THE GLITTERING CHINESE SHOPS WHERE ELEPHANTS ARE TURNED INTO TRINKETS, THEIR BABIES RECOVER IN A SANCTUARY. *** Playful Kithaka notices visitors so he rests his trunk on the top of a stable door, climbs up, waggles both legs out, then twirls his trunk like a propeller. His eyes twinkle when his audience laughs and comes over to visit. When he is out of his stall, he enjoys targeting cameramen with mischievous pranks. Earlier in the day a huge python unfurled himself at Kithaka. He screamed, bolted, and caused a stampede. He was brought to the sanctuary because he was separated from his mother when villagers chased away his family. In another stall, an older resident rolls up her trunk, tips her head up, and squirts water way back in her mouth. Then she limps to a tree limb. Twisting a branch with vegetation to one side, she reaches for more as she chews. She awaits transfer to the new facility in the Kibwezi Forest for those with disabling poaching wounds.
Copyright © 2015 by Mary Baures. All photographs by Mary Baures. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permissions in writing from the copyright owner.This book was published by Merrimack Media Cambridge, Massachusetts, 2015. Happy Valley Animals 11
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from DHARMA WOLF
Just Roll With It by Melinda Thomas
It’s Spring and there are soft red buds on the maple
of shaking it off, or for Disney fans, letting it go.
earth carried the full weight of our being in a way
trees and hint of green on the ground—along with
that gardening does not. If only I didn’t worry so
the mud. I love Spring here in the Northeast.
much about breaking a wrist!
Apparently, the dogs also enjoy the change in
If we let it, a laundry list of fears can replace
seasonal landscape as they rush the door at 5:30
joyful abandon in connection with the earth–fear
am. Davey the Jack Russell launches himself off the deck into a sweep of yard that includes all the mystery of a new galaxy. When I see him rolling around in dead leaves and dirt, I feel delight and appreciation, but also a hint of trepidation: What’s hidden in those leaves, and what sort of funky smell is going to wind up on my duvet cover?
cartwheels? That moment when both hands hit the
of injury, contamination by herbicide, winter flu, A roll on the earth looks way too joyful to be a
ruining our clothes or our reputation. Maybe we
power grab. While we humans suffer the challenge
are too dignified—or too frightened—to transfer our
of letting it go through mental and emotional
negative energy to earth. Instead, we project it onto
work, a dog might simply roll in the poo as a
each other. Yet without the injuries imposed by
convenient exchange of negative energy from
mining, felling, exploding, poisoning and damming,
self to something larger (and stinkier). What
our earth can probably survive a human roll on its
would happen if we tried the same radical act when
surface once in a while, allowing us to shake it off.
feeling sorely put-upon, frustrated or angry?
A little earth dirt never hurt anyone. And a roll in
Perhaps an extemporaneous wallow in the vast
the leaves can be especially invigorating when we don’t know what lies beneath. The most beautiful
diversity of scents and textures is just what we
thing we can experience is the mysterious, said
humans need as the antidote to alienation. Diving
Albert Einstein.
into piles of leaves, making snow angels, the uncommon habit of lying on the grass (watch out for We see dogs rolling on their backs, trying their best to absorb intricate and sometimes not-so-
those poison symbols)–many of us remember these full-body connections to the earth’s elements from
subtle odors. Popular wisdom suggests that dogs like to disguise themselves, and this is generally regarded as a method of protection. So the human
An added benefit to a roll on the earth for us will be
assumption is that animals will roll in whatever is at
that our dogs appreciate and respect us. They will
hand–usually scat or remains of another animal–as
sniff us all over, perhaps grace us with a lick or two
a way to control public image. (Please don’t get me
in the process. They will approve our priorities and
started on politics . . .)
I have a different theory. I believe our dogs are rolling in the leaves, grass, dirt, flowerbeds or vegetable gardens not to absorb scent or leave behind their own scent, but as the canine equivalent
our methods. Just as we personify them, they will canine-ify us, welcoming us to their rich, integrated childhood. Growing up has meant leaving these antics behind, and in the process, relegating our only earth connection to (shoed) feet. Remember
world while reminding us to just roll with it. Melinda Thomas writes the Dharma Wolf blog at: http:// dharmawolf.com. Happy Valley Animals 13
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Dallas is a big dog and a chicken. If she chases our chickens and they run, that’s great. If the chickens turn around, Dallas is gone, and the Dane we had before her was the same way. She’ll come out here at night and bark ferociously into the forest. If she hears something, she’s right there barking, and I mean ferociously. But if push came to shove … um [laughs] ...I don’t know. These two are best buddies. They play and they race. Here in Leverett we can just open the door and they spend a good part of the day outside. In the winter, Ginger will go outside and layon the stoop. She would live outdoors if she could. Dallas, who is four, only wants to go out to do her business, and in her flannel jacket from Vermont. She doesn’t like the cold, the rain, bugs, the beach, sand. At the Cape, where we run the Earl of Sandwich Motel eight months of the year, we have a truck camper, and we’ll occasionally go out to the beach for an overnight. Ginger can’t get enough of the water, running in the waves, chasing the ball, rolling in the sand. Dallas doesn’t want to get out of the truck. Because it’s a four-door pickup truck, we leave the back open, and she goes in and out, but basically she’ll stay in the truck all day. She looks at us like—what are we doing here? —Brian J. Clifford
ANIMAL Artistry
“Crowned Hornbill,” by N. J. Wight Note: N.J. Wight also took the picture of chimpanzee Sue Ellen that appears in the “Welcome” on page 5.
Zazu, the majordomo to Mafusa and Simba in “The Lion King,” was a dignified but jittery red-billed hornbill. I cannot think of a more inspiring bird to base an animated character on. Hornbills are elaborate, unusual and bursting with personality. Hornbills are one of my very favourite feathered subjects to photograph in Africa. During my travels to the southern and eastern parts of the continent, the distinctive schnozollas of the yellow-billed, red billed, gray billed, ground hornbill, crowned hornbill (above) and the Von der Decken hornbill have all found their way into my viewfinder.
Once-upon-a-time I was a Montreal executive in the technology and communication sector. I spent over 20 years at the intersections of entertainment, media and technology and have worked creatively with brands as diverse as Blue Note, HBO, Disney, Much Music, Deepak Chopra and Family Guy. Whether lecturing, managing, consulting, designing or producing, I have always been driven by the creative process. In 2008, I made a life-changing decision
continues on page 19
3233992
I have a passion for wildlife and all creatures great and small… but mostly great. My introduction to Wild! photography (you can see my Wild! Life website at www.njwight.com) came about in 2007 when I made a life-changing trip to East Africa. It was after that trip that I decided to put a 20+ year corporate executive career on hold and pursue my dreams of wildlife photography. Since that visit to Tanzania, I have added Botswana, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Kenya, Panama, Costa Rica and Alaska to my passport and repertoire—all to photograph wildlife. While at home in Montreal, Canada, I spend time photographing the creatures in our rivers, marshes, forests and parks.
Happy Valley Animals 17
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continued from page 17
to resign from my position as Chief Operating Officer with a successful mobile content company — it was time for a new adventure. I had fallen in love with Africa on a three-week trip to Tanzania in 2007, and so in September of 2008 I decided to return to the continent, this time to spend ten weeks traveling through Southern Africa. I have long been passionate about wildlife. Having so many close encounters with incredible animals, from endangered black rhinos and wild dogs to cheetahs and leopards to reed frogs and dragon flies was like living in a perpetual dream, except when an elephant bull visited my tent in the darkness of dawn—that WASN’T a dream! I saw close to 100 species of mammals and birds, took 35 game drives, slept in 24 beds, flew on 20 planes, explored 10 reserves, drank at 7 vineyards, visited 4 countries, walked in 2 oceans, got robbed once, and happily, saw no snakes…but I did share my room with a fruit bat. I would spend long hours sitting quietly, lost in the minutia of the daily lives of these wondrous creatures, the only sounds coming from the nature around me. I would fix my lens on the smallest details; the hairs on a tail, lashes of an eye or the curve of a belly. Watching and learning about their social orders, survival instincts, and their play and group dynamics was endlessly fascinating. I was absorbed in the ever-changing patterns of their skins, their whiskers, beaks and paws, and was constantly astonished that I was in a position to be observing these Up Close. I was learning to see with new eyes. I was transported by the smells both pleasant and pungent and the sounds—especially at night. It was an amazing and privileged experience and while I did not know it at the time, it would also eventually lead me down a new path in my life. Photography has become not only a creative outlet in my life, but a new career.
ROAD HOME ANIMAL CARE Skilled Pet Nursing at Home
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510-367-0004 I work part time in an animal hospital. It keeps me grounded pretty securely in the world of veterinary medicine, which serves me well in my private practice of caring for older animals in their own homes. I started Road Home Animal Care almost two years ago when I moved from Northern CA to Northampton. The work continues to evolve. I continue to evolve, both as a nurse and a caregiver to my animal patients and their people. I am often serving the elderly animal population, so inevitably, loss plays a significant role in what I do. People often ask, How you can bear doing what you do? To that I often respond that I cannot bear NOT to. Sometimes I get calls from people who cannot afford to pay me to come and help them with their animal. Still, they need to tell me about their situation. They are suffering, and they need a calm and loving voice because they know they could lose their beloved at any moment. Later, these same families call me again when their animal is gone and they thank me for my kindness and say that they felt less alone when they were going through the crisis of their animal being so ill. That, my friends, is the center of everything. Losing an animal or facing a serious illness can be overwhelming. Because of that, I make the offer to be available to you and your beloved companions. My pledge is to help you feel less scared, less alone. A favorite veterinarian of mine in Hawaii, Shannon Fujimoto Nakaya, who practices house call medicine, writes beautifully about all of this. You can find her online at: www. kindredspiritkindredcare.com. I quote her below. My goal is to help and empower some of the best humans on the planet: those who truly love and respect their animal companions. Aloha aku, aloha mai (breathe as one with the universe)
www.njwight.com
I join this doctor with a heart filled with compassion as a kindred steward of our planet willing to advocate for our animals. In turn, I invite you to join me.
Call me anytime. I am available after hours. Hanni Beyer Lee Happy Valley Animals 19
TNR is comprised of three equally important steps: (1) Trap. Feral cats live in groups called “colonies.” A TNR program will attempt to trap all of the feral cats in a colony, for the purpose of bringing them to a veterinarian to be spayed or neutered.
Elizabeth Strole
Feral Cats: Trap, Neuter, Release Researchers estimate that approximately 70 million feral cats live in the United States. This number steadily climbs as unaltered feral cats continue to produce offspring. Who are these feral cats, and why do we care? A feral cat is a descendant of a domesticated cat. It is a cat that has either had no interactions with humans, or had previously had human interaction prior to returning to a wild state. A “stray” cat, on the other hand, is a cat that is accustomed to human interactions, that does not have a home. Given the rate at which cats can reproduce (one female cat having over 100 kittens during her life), it is critical that responsible animal lovers address the existence of un-altered feral cats throughout the country. “Trap/Neuter/ Release” or “Trap/Neuter/Return” aka TNR, is a successful method of humanely dealing with feral cats.
A TRN cat awaits release. Photo by Cyndi McMahon 20 Happy Valley Animals
(2) Neuter. At the veterinarian, the female cats will be spayed, and the male cats will be neutered. While under anesthesia, the cats will likewise have a small piece of one of their ear tips removed. This signifies to the humans feeding the colony that that cat has already been altered. Accordingly, the care-takers will have visible evidence of which cats do not need to be brought to the veterinarian for fixing, and which do in fact still need to be altered. Many local animal shelters, including Dakin, and local private veterinarians offices, offer free or very low cost spay and neuter services for feral cats. In Massachusetts and Connecticut, all feral cats will also receive a rabies vaccine at their spay/neuter surgery.
FELINE
well as assistance with trapping them. If you would like to help us help these cats, please email info@felinefriendsinc.org.
(3) Return/Release. The return or release of feral cats to the area in which they live is the final component of TNR. Cats that have been trapped and altered should be returned to the area from which they were trapped, and a caregiver should be in place to provide daily food and water to the cats. Shelter, such as wooden or Styrofoam boxes filled with straw, should be provided for the cats, and should have openings on both sides, for quick escapes in case other animals (such as fisher cats) enter the shelters. TNR has proven time and again to be the most effective means of managing feral cat populations. The systematic removal and euthanizing of feral cats from a given area is always an exercise in futility, as new feral cats will move in and establish themselves in the area, thus repeating a cycle that is inhumane to the cats and frustrating to the humans. If you know of feral cats in need of care, a reputable local shelter will be able to assist you. Being proactive to help feral cats by implementing a TNR program is a compassionate way to help care for feral cats while preventing them from multiplying. Feline Friends cares for several feral cat colonies in Agawam/Feeding Hills and West Springfield. Opportunities exist for helping with the feeding and watering of these cats, as
Elizabeth Strole is the Donations Coordinator for Feline Friends. In this volunteer position, she seeks donations of cat food, litter, and money in order to support Feline Friends’ many cats. She also practices law full time in Hartford, Connecticut. She can be reached with any inquiries at estrole@hotmail.com, or info@felinefriends. org.
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STRAY TALK from the
Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center Days as a Shelter Veterinarian
by E. Lauren Atkins MS, DVM, MPH
one day Animal Care Officer (ACO) Angela brought in a hit by car (HBC) dog. She was young, adorable, and paralyzed. She had never been to the vet, was in heat, with no microchip, no collar. She had owners, but they didn’t have the finances to take her to the vet. However, all the money in the world would not have helped her. We humanely euthanized her. Around 2:00 pm, ACO Elfred brought in a HBC cat. He was an intact tom cat, had bite wounds on his face and arm, and was in severe respiratory distress. The trauma from the accident tore his diaphragm and his intestines were in his chest. I had an incredibly difficult decision to make. Here was a cat that needed immediate surgery. His prognosis was grave. In addition to the trauma, he had wounds of unknown origin and would have needed a 6
I am a shelter veterinarian at an animal control
facility. Years ago this would have been the most depressing and devastating job I could imagine. In fact, in 1997 I worked in South Carolina at a facility that euthanized healthy, young, friendly animals daily. I can remember assisting with euthanizing a young chocolate lab as he kissed me in the face—because all the cages were full. It was during that time that I decided I wanted to go to vet school to work in animal shelters. I believed that if I became a veterinarian I would be in a position to create the most positive change possible. Fast forward twenty years—here I am now working at one of the most progressive animal control facilities in the country. At TJO we are able to positively impact the lives of thousands of animals a year. In the last two weeks, two young, small dogs came in hit by cars (HBC is our shorthand term). Both had severe fractures and needed surgery. Thanks to the support of the Foundation for TJO Animals I was able to perform amputations to save their lives. Cases like these reinforce that decision I made decades ago, over 1,000 miles away. Then a different kind of day happens. At noon
Struck by a car on Tapley St. in Springfield, February 22.
month rabies quarantine. Since he was an intact male with bite wounds, there was also a good chance that he had FIV. He was humanely euthanized. At 5:00 pm—when we were about to walk out the door—ACO Mason brought in another cat hit by a car. She had blood pouring out of her nose, a broken jaw, one of her eyes had popped out of the socket and the other one was bloody. However, unlike the other two HBC animals that day, her injuries were perhaps fixable.
Then came the same question I was faced with earlier in the day: is humane euthanasia the right decision? It would not have been wrong to choose humane euthanasia. Her road to recovery would be long and difficult and she might not survive. But there we were at 5:00 pm with a severely injured cat who might survive and have a good quality of life in a few months. We decided to give it a shot. We decided to try to save her life. And we did save the life of that adorable cream tabby who is a one-eyed wonder (we’ve named her Oracle) and doing very well. Days like this are like emotional roller coasters. As a shelter vet, I am able to help so many, and that is incredibly rewarding. Let’s face it, though. I really wish that I never saw any of those animals who were hit by cars. We ask ourselves questions every day at TJO and within the animal welfare community. Could I have prevented any of those animals from ending up in the shelter in the first place? As a shelter vet can I do more? Could I have done anything to assist the family of the young dog in heat? Could I have educated the person feeding that tom cat? I am so thankful that I became a shelter veterinarian. At the same time, I am still trying to figure out how to create the most positive change possible.
“Oracle,” still healing in March. The TJO team is hopeful that she will regain vision in her remaining eye. Happy Valley Animals 23
ANIMALS SPEAK
A Letter from Maya Mouse by Marian Kelner
Dear Marian, After I wrote my first letter to you, I realized there was one more thing I really wanted to talk about: my name. Mouse. You know why this might an issue for me. I understand I was gray and small with long whiskers when I was born, and humans, being who they are, free-associated, and, voila, the name Mouse. When I was a baby, I used to laugh and laugh thinking humans were saying meow with such a bad accent, but after I learned English, I became confused. How could they say, “Come here, Mouse,” knowing I was a cat? Given my traumatic childhood, I thought, okay, here’s another humiliation, another sign of my invisibility. But after I came home with you I understood that this name was perfect for me. Over the years, when you were away or asleep, I
24 Happy Valley Animals
have worked my way through your books on Native Americans, and learned that the wisest humans do not have human names but animal names, like Crazy Horse and Bear. I can’t tell you how moved I was when I learned there were people who respected animals so much that they named themselves after them and aspired to embody their qualities. So I pondered the qualities of mice, and have come to embrace Mouse as a perfect spirit guide for me. I remember the mice in my first house and how impressed I was by their intelligence, survival skills, care for their young, and sense of humor. I know you humans are just catching on to the fact that mice can laugh, but we cats have always known this. I can’t tell you the number of times they have figured out how to get away from me and then gathered with their families and friends in the night to tell their warrior stories around a heated pipe behind the baseboards. Their imitations of me, I have to admit, were really funny, and they laughed and laughed as they described the expressions on my face when I knew I had lost them for good.
So I can honestly say I am honored to have the name Mouse and I try every day to live up to it. I am also honored to have the name you chose for me to mark the beginning of my life with you. I watched as you looked up goddess names on the computer and studied each one’s attributes, and was thrilled when you picked Maya, the goddess of spring, of love, and the protector of older women. So when you call me Mouse or Maya Mouse, I purr with the deep satisfaction of being understood, and with my alignment with goddesses and mice. I know you have taken your middle initial and named yourself Marian Animal Kelner. I would suggest that you too, my precious friend, also find a specific animal and a goddess with qualities you want to manifest and add their names to yours. May they help you as mine have helped me. Love always, Maya Mouse You can reach Marian Kelner at mariankelner.net.
DOGEARED
Reviews of Books About Dogs by Sarah Meikle
The Wolf in the Parlor: The Eternal Connection Between Humans and Dogs by Jon Franklin
archeological findings that mark our attempts to disseminate when, exactly, dogs broke away from their grey wolf ancestors and at what point they became part of our family lives. Franklin also highlights what changes occurred when those early wolves began to morph into the dog. From shortened muzzles and floppy ears to varied tails and coats, The Wolf in the Parlor examines the evolutionary science of our four legged friends. Franklin notes that dogs inhabit a singular position in our lives, a position no other animal occupies (though Franklin does, briefly, explore the evolution of the house cat as well). The author investigates where this extraordinary bond originated and what distinguishes it from the way we feel about other animals, as well as why is it that humans are as important to dogs as they are to us. Building on evolutionary science, archaeology, behavioral science, and his experience of watching his own dog grow into a central member of his family, Franklin suggests that man and dog are more than just inseparable; they are part and parcel of the same creature. Master storyteller Franklin reveals an unexpected, enthralling picture of the human/canine relationship and reframes our understanding of
the pivotal influence dogs have had on human evolution. Dog professionals and pet owners alike will find The Wolf in the Parlor a worthy read. With a lighthearted, yet earnest, voice, The Wolf in the Parlor oscillates between scientific tome and personal memoir, the combination of which makes a hearty but easily digestible read. Bio courtesy of Amazon.com: Two-time Pulitzer prize winning author Jon Franklin takes his readers into places they’ve never been. A pioneer in the narrative nonfiction movement -- nonfiction that reads as easily as if it were fiction -- Franklin is known for his easy style. His stories and books will allow you to climb Kitt Peak to peer through one of the world’s most powerful telescopes, watch over the shoulders of brain surgeons as they save a patient’s life, travel back in time to uncover the secrets of our own behavioral evolution. All this, without leaving the comfort of your easy chair.
Sarah Meikle is a life-long dog lover and the founder and executive director of Diggity Dogs Service Dogs in Shelburne Falls, MA, a nonprofit organization that specializes in psychiatric and medical alert service dog training. Kiwi, her gorgeous rescue mutt, inspires her daily.
Jon Franklin was, at first, a reluctant dog owner, as many dog lovers once were. Franklin was introduced to the joys and mysteries of dogs when his wife (then fiancé) insisted they get a dog, yet his relationship with their standard poodle Charlie so profoundly influenced his life that he ended up spending a decade studying the origins and significance of the dog and its weird and wonderful attachment to humans. Franklin seeks to understand how our unique relationship with dogs evolved and what the implications of our bonds have been. Franklin’s research began with mild curiosity and a handful of questions to which he expected to find succinct answers. However, the intellectual pursuit of understanding the origins and nature of dogs soon began to take over Franklin’s life. Those familiar with dog-related research find many common research topics featured, such as the Happy Valley Animals 25
Abby Newton
Concerned Citizens for Animals, an all volunteer non-profit, has been helping the financially-in-need spay and neuter dogs, cats, and rabbits for over 35 years. Call 413-565-5383 for more information. Proof of financial need will be required.
We are having A HUGE FUNDRAISING TAG SALE to help the animals! Please come and check out the large variety of items and low prices. WHEN: Friday, April 8 (8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Saturday, April 9 (8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.) WHERE: Wachogue Congregational Church at the corner of Roosevelt Av. and Arvilla St. in Springfield (2 blocks from Sumner Ave.) DONATIONS: Set-up for the tag sale is Thursday, April 7, from 8:30 a.m. to approximately 3 p.m. Anyone can drop off items. Please, NO clothes, shoes, or large equipment. For more information call Susan at 413-782-9006.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Concerned Citizens for Animals is looking for committed volunteers to assist in our mission to help with animal welfare. If you have people skills, love animals, and want to learn more, please call 413-565-5383. We are attempting to strengthen our services and need individuals who have skills with grant writing, websites, and experience with computers.
THE DAKIN DISPATCH Spay/Neuter Myths Since opening its doors in 2009, the Dakin Community Spay/Neuter Clinic in Springfield has conducted more than 66,000 spay/neuter surgeries. What an achievement! We’re proud of the fact that we have an accomplished team of skilled veterinarians and support staff whose work has significantly reduced the homeless animal population in our region. We’re also proud that so many people have taken this important – and responsible - step in caring for their animals. In our work we often encounter resistance to spay-neuter surgery for a variety of reasons including finances (and as we tell our clients – our clinic WILL work with you to find a price point you can afford), a desire to let their pet live “naturally” and more. And we frequently hear some of the most popular myths about spay/neuter surgery, some of which I’d like to address here.
Lee Chambers Myth #1) “It’s natural for my animal to have the chance to have a litter.” Letting your cat or dog have one litter before they are spayed does not provide significant emotional or health benefits for the animal, in fact the opposite is true. Female cats and dogs can experience their first heat – and become pregnant - as early as four or five months of age. Spaying your cat or dog prior to her first heat will spare her the dangers of delivery as well as lower her risk for certain types of cancers. Male pets also benefit from early neutering, as it reduces the chance they’ll contract cancers that involve reproductive organs. Many veterinarians perform spay/neuter surgery on pets who are eight weeks old without adverse health effects. Myth #2) “My pet will get fat if I get them fixed.” Nope! You can’t blame that for your pet’s thick mid-section. Too much food and not enough exercise is the culprit there. Myth #3) “I want my children to see the ‘miracle of birth.’” For those who would delay (or avoid) sterilizing their pet so that their children can witness a birth, why not volunteer to be a foster parent for your local animal adoption center or rescue agency? You and your children can care for a pregnant cat or dog, pre- and post-delivery, until her litter is old enough to be brought to the agency for adoption. Your commitment is short-term and you provide invaluable assistance to an organization that will welcome you with open arms. Myth #4) “Neutering my animal will take away his manhood.” Some people feel the surgery will change their pet’s innate personality or make them “less male” or “less female.” The truth is that pets don’t have the concept of sexual identity that humans do, nor will the sterilization result in any kind of emotional reaction or identity crisis. If your pet has not been spayed or neutered, please call your veterinarian or Dakin’s Community Spay/Neuter Clinic at (413) 781-4019 as soon as possible to schedule their surgery. Our veterinarians are specially trained to provide high-quality spay/ neuter surgery in our state-of-the-art surgical suites. With reasonable rates and grant funds frequently available to lessen any financial hardship, we can help. In fact, during the month of March, our Clinic will be offering a $25 discount on our regular fee for spay surgery for female dogs. When booking, be sure to mention “Spay Date” to get the reduced rate. Don’t wait…it’s a limited offer! For more information about our Clinic, please visit www.dakinhumane.org. Lee Chambers is marketing and communications manager of the Dakin Humane Society. Happy Valley Animals 29
Helpful Humans HEALTH & HEALING Change Your Range (changeyourrange.com) offers Therapeutic Systematic Realignment Services for Humans, Horses, and Hounds! Erika McElwey & Kelly Rosado have developed a powerful healing combination. The “Power of Three” has always been represented as a union of healing and power. Change your Range now offers these amazing healing sessions using a combination of skills and intuition. Erika & Kelly work individually with the client, then combine their work to create this healing union. Erika, EqCnTPM Certified, combines Trigger Point Myotherapy(TPM), Myofascial Massage, Cold Laser and Pulse Electromagnetic Frequency(PEMF). Kelly offers Reiki, TSRT, and is Theta I & II Certified. Erika & Kelly each have a unique healing touch, but when these modalities and manual therapeutic skillsets are blended together, the healing process is magnified. “Healing Happens with Ease and Grace.” We are now offering “Power of Three” sessions by appointment. 413-887-1773.
FEED STORES Country Corral in Williamsburg has more than twenty brands of feed for your pets and livestock, and well as tack, other pet supplies, and gifts. In business for more than 20 years, owner Tim is always behind the counter and ready to lend advice in finding and choosing the best item for your needs. He’ll also lend a helping hand getting your purchase out to your vehicle. Customers have said “outstanding products and service,” a place that meets “all your animal vegetable and mineral (!) needs” and “the best feed store I have ever been to.” Stop by 35 Main Street Rear (look for the sign to your right on Rt. 9) Williamsburg, MA. Hours are Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP If you or someone you know has lost a pet, please join us for a weekly (or as needed) pet loss support group. The group is held as an open forum, and everyone is welcome. Meetings are held from 6-7:00 p.m. at the West Springfield Library, dates variable. For more information, contact Doreen McDonald at 413-732-0373 .
30 Happy Valley Animals
Favorite
POEmS from Childhood
❦ AT NIGHT When I go to bed at night The darkness is a bear. He crouches in the corner, Or hides behind a chair; The one who tells me stories— She does not know he’s there. But when she kisses me good-night And darkness starts to creep Across the floor, why, then I see It’s just a woolly sheep, That nibbles at my rugs awhile Before we go to sleep. —Anne Blackwell Payne (October 15, 1887-March 5, 1969)
❦
In Memoriam 555 “We need another and a wiser and perhaps a more mystical concept of animals. Remote from universal nature, and living by complicated artifice, man in civilization surveys the creature through the glass of his knowledge and sees thereby a feather magnified and the whole image in distortion. We patronize them for their incompleteness, for their tragic fate of having taken form so far below ourselves. And therein we err, and greatly err. For the animal shall not be measured by man. In a world older and more complete than ours they move finished and complete, gifted with extensions of the senses we have lost or never attained, living by voices we shall never hear. They are not brethren, they are not underlings; they are other nations caught with ourselves in the net of life and time, fellow prisoners of the splendour and travail of the earth.” Henry Beston, The Outermost House
GRETA SMITH In loving remembrance of Greta Rose Smith, who passed away unexpectedly on December 7, 2015. Greta was an indomitable spirit here on earth. Greta Choco, you are deeply missed and will always be remembered and loved. In every season to come, in all the places you loved to be, you will remain honored and adored in my heart. I will work on being a more patient and kind person, you were my teacher and I am continuing to reflect upon the lessons you taught me about forgiveness, commitment and unconditional acceptance. Thank you for reminding me of Snoopy, for your adorable ways and in spite of going through so much, for allowing me to love you. Thank you for being an easy going, funny, gentle, lovable, deep, indomitable and Unique soul. I miss doing downward dogs with you in yoga and at home. Our love continues to unite us together as I continue to do the very hard task of letting you go. Your spirit is strong and you have touched my life in a powerful way. Thank you, Greta. Lynne Nicole Smith 5
*I would like to publicly thank Karen Anderson for her many years of rescue work and for giving Greta and many other special animals a “New Beginning.” Suzanne Rilla, thank you for all of your tender care of Greta. She truly loved you.
Readers are invited to use this page, at no cost, to honor the animals they love and miss.
White Rose Pet Memorial Services PET CREMATORY Brattleboro, VT
www.whiterosepet.com (802) 254-4749 By Appointment Only
All animals are treated with the respect and dignity they inherently deserve.
Happy Valley Animals 31
At the Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital (VESH)
EMERGENCY
RE WE A YS ALWA ! OPEN
and Advanced Care for your pet is just minutes away!
24-HOUR EMERGENCY, CRITICAL CARE & HOSPITALIZATION plus DERMATOLOGY • INTERNAL MEDICINE • ENDOSCOPY • ONCOLOGY CHRONIC DISEASE TREATMENT • OPHTHALMOLOGY • LASER EYE SURGERY ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY • SOFT TISSUE SURGERY • LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY ULTRASOUND & X-RAY • IN-HOUSE LAB
V
VESH
413-665-4911
141 Greenfield Road (Rts 5/10) South Deerfield, MA 01373
Service Animals receive free eye exams in May. www.acvoeyeexam.org
veshdeerfield
Registration begins April 1 for a FREE eye exam in May for qualified service animals. To see if your animal qualifies, or to register, follow the instructions at www.acvoeyeexam.org, then call VESH at 413-665-4911 to schedule your appointment for your service animal with Dr. Lackner.