PetsHappy Healthy
5 Tips for new pet owners
K9 blood donor
Quacklene, the duck
The Thompsons Family of Dealerships
WE LOVE OUR HAPPY AND HEALTHY PETS
Family-owned for over 30 years, Thompsons Family of Dealerships is here to help you (and your pets, too) into the new and used vehicles of your dreams here in El Dorado County
“Alexis” with Rachele Hutchinson Service Reception – CDJR
“Kobe” with Lotus Daughter of Rich Prattsmith Sales Associate – Toyota
“Ranger” with Carly Devlin Service Administration – Toyota
“Buddy” with Kaitlyn Daughter of Andy McCue Service Manager - CDJR
“Molly” Owner - Sara Shindler Receptionist – Toyota (Molly unfortunately passed away this year)
“Raven” with Jacqy Edwards Sales Associate – CDJR
“Merlin” with Matt Amaral Sales Associate – CDJR
“Jovie” with Kyle Ryan Sales Manager – GMC
“Winnie” with Jonny Carr Sales Associate – GMC with his son Kai with Justin Spence Parts Advisor – Toyota
“Bix, Jack Jack, Clyde, & Jethro”
“Bailey” & Brad Wade “Little Bit” & Debby Wade Brad and Debby just retired in September! Brad was a Sales Manager for GMC and Debby was an Assistant Service Manager with Toyota
Publisher: Richard B. Esposito resposito@mtdemocrat.net
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Contributing Writers: Eric Jaramishian
Malachi Parker
Debbi Preston
Odin Rasco
Jessica Trumble
Rob Warren
Photographers: Eric Jaramishian
Odin Rasco
Malachi Parker
Layout Design: Letty Bejarano-Carvajal
Welcoming a new pet is
but preparation is
to provide a loving home and enjoy the unconditional
Prepare your furry friend for a new home with these essential tips for first-time pet owners.
Choose the right pet for your lifestyle
Consider your living situation, work schedule and preferences. Research different breeds to find the one that matches your activity level, living space and family dynamics. Also consider allergies or sensitivities you or your family may have as some pets may trigger allergies or asthma symptoms.
Foothill Therapy Dog Group
registered teams of Pet Partners therapy animal organization (petpartners.org). The group visits with their own registered therapy dogs at Mercy Hospital Folsom, M.O.R.E, state preschools, resource rooms, colleges, base re camps, etc. For more information, please contact Val Kneppel at (530) 306-7338 or email valsk9services@gmail.com for therapy dog training or information about Pet Partners or the Foothill Therapy Dog Group.
Set up your home
Before bringing your new pet home, create a safe and comfortable environment. Start by pet-proofing your home, removing any hazardous substances and securing loose wires or cords. Make sure to store cleaning supplies, medications and toxic plants out of reach. Provide a designated space that includes a cozy bed or crate, food and water bowls and toys.
Create a routine
Establish a consistent schedule for feeding, exercise and bathroom breaks. Determine the appropriate amount and frequency of meals for your pet’s age, size and breed. Spend quality time with your pet daily, providing attention, affection and mental stimulation.
Budget for your pet’s needs
Owning a pet comes with financial responsibilities. Consider the costs of food, grooming, veterinary care, vaccinations and preventive medications. Additionally, factor in the cost of toys, bedding, litter and other supplies.
Find a reliable veterinarian
Regular check-ups and open communication with a local veterinarian can help detect any potential health issues early and ensure your pet receives the best possible care. Ask friends, family or neighbors with pets for provider recommendations and read reviews. Visit potential veterinarians’ offices to meet the staffs, tour the facilities and ask any questions you may have. Find more tips for welcoming a furry friend into your home at eLivingtoday.com. U
Photo by Blue Fountain Photography
Photo by Pam Truitt
Photo by Dawson (Jewel at Brookside)
How to save a LIFE
El Dorado Hills home to unique blood bank where pets are patients
In emergency medical situations, blood transfusions can mean the difference between life and a different option that’s generally less popular. Humans have had blood banks serving as a safety net for almost a century now, keeping blood of all types on hand for hospitals and patients in need since the fi rst one opened in a Leningrad hospital in 1932. However, when it comes to our furry friends, blood banks are much rarer, and oft en are privately run businesses rather than designed to serve their local community.
One of only two community pet blood banks in California recently opened its doors in El
n Story by Odin Rasco
Photo by Odin Rasco
Esfra Ennes, blood bank coordinator at Insight Veterinary Wellness Center in El Dorado Hills, displays a pack of blood which was recently donated. The donated blood may go to a pet in need in the community, or, if needs are met locally, may even be shipped to vets as far away as Southern California.
What To Expect
Blood donation for dogs is minimally invasive. During your rst visit, which lasts about 30 minutes, dogs receive health examinations, have their blood typed (dogs have 13 different blood types!), and are screened for infectious disease. If cleared for further donation, the dog is invited to become a member of our canine blood donor program. Donation appointments can be scheduled as often as once per month, but pets typically donate 3 to 4 times per year. If any health problems are detected, the owner will be advised to follow up with the dog’s regular veterinarian. The annual health checks are complimentary, as are donation visits. In addition to the obvious bene ts to sick and injured pets, the program also provides an opportunity for dog owners to become involved in the veterinary community.
Dorado County as part of the suite of services offered by Insight Veterinary Wellness Center. Before a change in state laws in 2021, California’s animal blood bank system was a series of closed-colony banks; the dogs or cats at the banks lived their lives there, and blood was routinely drawn from them and sent across the state or even country to veterinary hospitals that ordered it. Now, laws have changed with the aim to phase out the closed colony system over time; leadership at Insight saw the changing circumstances and realized it had the opportunity to help lead the way and serve the region by opening a community blood bank of its own.
“We’re super excited about this for multiple reasons,” said Esfra Ennes, blood bank coordinator. “Past models have been these closed colony blood banks that have historically had not so great practices. It’s a much better situation that we’re transitioning to, and we’re fi nding ways to make this new model beneficial for the donor dogs and their owners.”
Still in its early stages, Insight’s blood bank is still eager to fi nd new donor dogs and hope to expand and begin taking donations from cats in the future. The need for blood can be so great that in recent years, veterinary clinics like Insight have waited as long as 20 weeks to receive an order of blood bags. By democratizing the donation process and widening the pool of donors, Ennes
says Insight hopes to be able to meet their own needs and also the needs of the region.
Sometimes, further-flung veterinary hospitals reach out for orders; Ennes recounted a recent shipment of blood bags sent to Southern California that arrived just in time. The same day the package arrived, a dog was brought in who needed immediate transfusions in order to stay alive. Though remarkable, that shipment is not the only case when donations at Insight have happened in the nick of time. Sarah Gardner, an assistant at the bank, mentioned how an employee at Insight had just had their dog Zeus make a donation the day before the clinic was visited by Reign. Reign was a pregnant pup in need of an emergency c-section, and Zeus’ blood was just what she needed to make it safely through the procedure.
“Zeus had just donated, and because of a critical transfusion, Reign was OK,” Gardner mentioned. “She made it through and has been recovering and is doing well.”
Because the bank wants to ensure the donor dogs are happy and healthy, Ennes and other employees have established a set of perks and best practices to make sure the experience is beneficial for everyone involved. Not only do donors get some free preventative care and vaccination, they are sure to get a treat or two every visit; because the bank wants to maintain a steady flow of donations, they ask donors to come back every few months to give again. Potential donors are screened for blood type — dogs have 3 times more blood types than humans — to make sure there won’t be an adverse reaction for a pooch receiving a transfusion. Although they make multiple checks to make sure the dogs involved are comfortable during the whole process, if they seem unhappy at all, Ennes lets them go from the donor program.
“If the dog doesn’t want to do it, I don’t want to force them,” Ennes explained. “We want what’s best for them, even if we lose a donation. Because our patients are pets and can’t talk, we have to meet them and learn their personalities before we ever have a donation session, so we can build a strong relationship. I want it to be a feel-good situation for them.”
As the program is still building and the need for available blood is constant, owners of dogs that weigh 50 or more pounds (little dogs not having enough blood to spare) are encouraged to visit Insight and see if the donation program might work for them. The office is located at 4509 Golden Foothill Parkway in El Dorado Hills. U
Photo by Odin Rasco Blood bank staff prepare to draw blood from a calm and comfy donor dog. All dogs who donate are given extra treats as thanks for their good deeds (and for being cute dogs).
Shingle Springs Veterinary Clinic
Dr. Bader is Retiring Again! Congratulations! However, Dr. Bader will be available for consultations via telemedicine from his ranch in Tennessee!! Simply call the clinic and we’ll take it from there.
Ricardo Macasaet, DDS and Christopher Macasaet, DDS
Our dental philosophy is different. At Aloha Family Dental, we perform dentistry that protects and repairs your teeth, but most importantly, our focus is to prevent the disease and damage that makes repairs necessary. At Aloha Family Dental our focus is not to x problems as they develop, but to prevent them. We want to keep your teeth in the healthy, natural state they were born to be in. Our goal is for you to have a healthy smile for life. Everyone wants to have a smile they’re con dent in. Understanding that has allowed Dr. Ricardo Macasaet, DDS, and Dr. Christopher Macasaet, DDS to provide amazing results, while treating every patient as a new member of their family.
Snowshoe trails perfect for pups
You will find five excellent snowshoe options for you and your pooch at Loon Lake. These five routes vary in distances (all signed in kilometers) and difficulty levels.
You will find bathroom facilities at the chalet as well as a fire pit. Three routes — Berts Lake (1.5 k or 0.9 m), Glissade Trail (1.3 k or 0.8 m),= and Zephyr Trail (2.1 k or 1.25 m) — require a good amount of snow, but the other two — Chipmunk Bluff (2.5 k or 1.5 m) and the Campground Trail (0.7 k or 0.44 m) — are available even with just a little snow. You double the one-way distances for all the trails except for the Glissade Loop Trail to get your total miles. All of these routes are marked with both blue diamonds and ribbons in trees to help you make your way through the snow.
If you like to do puzzles, you will enjoy snowshoeing and finding the correct route. You will also be rewarded on these trails with views down to frozen Loon Lake and out to distant snow-capped peaks. Your pooch will have fun
running in the snow and should prove helpful finding the next blue diamond for you by sniffing where previous people went. Be certain to stay on the correct route as sometimes the track takes you around a body of water covered with snow. You will have no problem returning to your vehicle because you can follow your own tracks back.
You can park your vehicle at two access spots depending on your route. For Berts Lake and Chipmunk Bluff, you park at the Loon Lake Chalet. For the other three, park at the entrance to Loon Lake Campground. During the winter, the gate at the entrance will be closed so you park outside without blocking the gate.
Directions: From Highway 50 going east, turn left onto Ice House Road immediately after crossing the bridge over the South Fork American River (about 22 miles east of Placerville). Follow Ice House Road for 24.3 miles to a right turn toward Loon Lake. Proceed 4.5 miles to the road into Loon Lake Campground. To continue to the chalet, drive another 0.8 miles where you will find the entrance to the parking area on your left. U
n Story & photo by Debbi Preston
Paws on Patrol
DA dog Oda helps investigate crime
When investigating the scene of a crime, conducting a search warrant or looking for evidence that may have been tossed during a pursuit, law enforcement officers have a furry friend they can turn to for help spotting the things they might otherwise miss. That’s where dogs like Oda, the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office’s German shepherd, come in to lend a paw.
n Story & photo by Odin Rasco
Although investigators have a knack for the work they do — and certainly have an advantage in searching buildings, thanks to their opposable thumbs — human senses can’t hold a candle to what Oda can sniff out when searching for evidence. Dogs of almost every breed can detect particular smells 10,000 to 100,000 times better than humans, according to a 2005 study, and German shepherds have a special knack for smelling that outperforms most other breeds. In addition to their significantly higher number of small receptors and more processing space in the brain devoted to scents, dogs can wiggle their sensitive sniffers, meaning they have a significant advantage in figuring out what direction a smell comes from.
“There’s been times where we
have conducted search warrants in houses or something where dogs have alerted us to narcotics hidden in ways we would not have found,” DA investigator and federallysworn Drug Enforcement Agency Task Force Officer Jim Applegate explained. “An example of one time is when there was a search in a small room that had been converted into a recording studio. They had added false walls with thick padding for sound buffering and they looked like they were flat across the top. The dog did a high alert sign and we discovered the walls dipped behind the front; there ended up being 2 kilos of cocaine and a handgun hidden in the wall of a room we were already done searching.”
Qualified canines like Oda are bred and trained for service in law enforcement across the globe,
Courtesy photo
Oda trains at the Ponderosa High School Library shorly after joining the DA’s Office team.
though most still come from the country you’d guess, given their name. Oda was trained in Germany before she become partners with Applegate in April 2022. Because her initial training was conducted in Germany, Oda is trained to respond to commands in German. Oda joined the county DA’s Office team with some training in detecting narcotics, though she is receiving additional training to detect gunpowder and firearms and to help with article and evidence searches. Her high enthusiasm for the job played a huge role in her current role; part of a well-regarded breeding line of German shepherds, Oda was originally expected to be kept around to breed another generation of pups, but she excelled at training and ultimately was brought to America.
Turning 5 years old in October, Oda is the second dog to work for the DA’s Office; Applegate had previously worked with Odin, who led an impressive career, once assisting in the seizure of more than $1 million in drug money over the course of just one month in 2020.
When Oda might need to stay behind in the car while Applegate works, they have a setup most people might envy in the back of his truck. Applegate has
multiple sensors in the cab of his truck that make sure the air conditioning keeps Oda cool and comfy and notify him if the temperature goes up, or of any other concerns, to make sure she is safe and OK, even on hot summer days.
Though Odin’s passing was a difficult time for Applegate and everyone at the DA’s Office, Oda’s peppy personality helped bring everyone back into high spirits. She’s very friendly and loves treats and pets whenever she gets a chance to have either, even climbing up onto the picnic table to be in better petting range of the reporter and Applegate during their interview.
Applegate has been working as a handler for K9 units for 19 of his 26 years in law enforcement, an experience he said he is glad to have. By working as a K9 handler, he has the chance to do his work serving the community while working with a friendly pup at his side.
“I feel pretty lucky,” Applegate said. “I love being able to take her out to go see kids and be at events, and I get to bring my pet with me to work every day.” U
n Story by Malachi Parker
The 5-year-old silver tabby is one of Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode’s many success stories. Called Lisa while at the Diamond Springs facility, the cat was found as a stray momma with two small kittens in El Dorado Hills. Animal Outreach’s caring team treated her health problems, including removing her left eye due to trauma and completing dental procedures, shortly after her kittens were weaned. She healed nicely and was ready for a new home.
“She is so sweet and loving, always eager for cheek scratches when she gets visitors to her cage,” Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode Marketing Coordinator Leah Wolf said.
Enter the Hays family, who had previously adopted a cat they named Chili. The cat duo of Chili and Bean now run the Hays’ household.
“My daughter picked out the cat and picked the name,” Joshua Hays said. “When we went to adopt a cat, she noticed that Chili was missing the same eye that Bean was missing.”
That hasn’t slowed either cat down as they spend many hours chasing each other around the home all day.
Meet Bean
Photo courtesy of Joshua Hays. Bean enjoys a snuggle from Gabrielle Hays at his new home.
A CARING NONPROFIT
Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode provides service for animals in need.
In 2023, generous support from the community and individuals helped the organization:
• Spay and neuter over 7,347 animals
• Place 1,559 cats and kittens in their forever homes
• Save over 1,644 cats’ and kittens’ lives
It’s mission is to provide community service for animals in need through low-cost spay and neuter and vaccination services to help eliminate pet overpopulation and euthanasia of adoptable animals; Provide a safe and caring haven for shelter animals until adopted; promote, through education and training, responsible pet ownership; and promote a fiscally responsible organization so that the funding available benefits as many animals as possible.
Services offered include cat and kitten adoption and surrender, veterinary care, cat and kitten foster care and a barn cat program. For more information about Animal Outreach visit animaloutreach.net. U
Courtesy photo
Animal Outreach helps control the cat population in El Dorado County with a spay and neuter program.
YOUR CANNABIS & HOLISTIC WELLNESS CENTER
Come see us at Chuck’s, your most PET friendly dispensary in the area!! All of our products are guaranteed to be tested for purity and exact dosing, something you won’t nd outside a licensed and regulated dispensary. VET CBD is amongst one of the oldest and purest CBD products you can nd with ingredients that are safe, concentration + ratio works well for humans too. The fact that it’s doctor-founded adds an extra layer of trust. Educating pet owners on wellness is such a valuable part of supporting their furry friends. Do you have speci c questions or areas you’d like to explore further about VET CBD? We are happy to help support you and your companions on your path to wellness.
Quacklene Your beauty
Quacklene is beyond
compare’
Annie Aubrey is a true friend of animals and pets, a trait that carried over when she took over Chuck’s Wellness Center in Placerville.
Call it good customer service or genuine intrigue, Aubrey always meets the pets of customers that come into her store.
“We had a person that brought in baby ducks and we also had a pig and a baby goat that was being bottle fed,” Aubrey said. “That’s my nickname — Annie Mall.”
The welcoming gestures were extended to another duck, Quacklene, when her owner Vanessa Velez dropped off a résumé. Quacklene even joined Vanessa during her job interview. She got the job and both pet and owner quickly became a part of Chuck’s flock.
Quacklene can be seen interacting with customers at the front counter, or will observe people going into Chuck’s through the front window.
Customers, including Chuck’s regular Pat O’Rourke, have the pleasure of visiting Quacklene in addition to being provided good customer service.
“She is a fabulous duck,” O’Rourke said. “She’s just friendly most of the time and I love seeing her every time I come in.”
She can also be seen in the back playing in her octagon-shaped playpen, also called the ducktagon.
“She basically goes wherever she wants.” Vanessa said. “She sort of runs the place.”
Quacklene treats Vanessa’s coworkers with a little more attitude; though friendly with most of the staff, Quacklene is often caught nibbling toes and pulling on pants if people are snacking without the duck.
“She can pull their leg hair and get their attention. She is the worst beggar and kind of a bully when it comes to snacks,” Vanessa admitted. “The security guard
“She is a fabulous duck. She’s just friendly most of the time and I love seeing her every time I come in.”
Fred gets the brunt of her bullying as well as Annie; she chews on her toes under the desk.”
“She definitely has her preferences,” Annie said. “She gets mad at me on Mondays because she hasn’t seen me all weekend, so she yells at me but then we make up and start it all over again.”
Regardless, the staff enjoy her company, calling her the best work pet.
“We have one customer that comes in solely to see Quacklene and feed her crackers,” receptionist Tracy Fernandez said. “Everyone is
always asking, ‘Is Quacklene here?’ — sometimes even before greeting us.”
About a year before Vanessa and Quacklene became a part of Chuck’s Wellness, they worked at Tractor Supply near the dispensary. While Vanessa was helping with customers, Quacklene would wander the aisles of Tractor Supply, almost as if she was working as security ... or (more likely) searching for her next snack.
“I think she got used to being around people, just wandering around the storefront at Tractor Supply,” Vanessa said. “When we came to Chuck’s Wellness, Annie
Quacklene receives a peck from her mother Vanessa Velez, an employee at Chuck’s Wellness Center in Placerville, while hanging out with her boss Annie Aubrey who welcomed both bird and owner to the cannabis dispensary team over a year ago.
saw that Quacklene did well just hanging around and kind of doing her own thing.”
Chuck’s Wellness staff, customers, Vanessa and Quacklene herself are fortunate. Two years ago, Vanessa’s now former roommates had yardbirds, a pekin and a mallard, resulting in the new pekinmallard mix Quacklene, but the duck’s hatching was not an easy one. One of the roommates had an incubator, and Vanessa collected all the warm eggs and put them in.
However, Quacklene hatched early, not having formed fully yet. While Vanessa was out of town, Vanessa’s roommates were able to reseal the egg to help Quacklene to grow. Fate would be in Quacklene’s favor and she properly hatched three days later on June 6, 2022.
“We didn’t believe that she was going to survive, so I kept her in my bedroom and would just keep her comfy, spoiled, healthy and happy until she would go,” Vanessa said.
Rejected by the other birds, she was kept in the house, raised along with dogs and cats that accepted Quacklene’s company, almost as if she herself didn’t know she was a duck.
“She doesn’t like water; I have to barricade her in her pool every morning and night so she gets the proper water she needs,” Vanessa said. “She acts more like a cat and has got a bit of an attitude, but she’s super chill for the most part.”
At their home in Camino, Quacklene turns into her true form.
“She’s just a cat at home and she sleeps in bed on my pillow, right against my head, and has her own food and water area in the house as well,” Vanessa said.
Though experiencing discomfort due to molting, Quacklene can be found at Chuck’s Wellness Center doing her thing.
The duck has become popular in her own right; she has her own Instagram account and is gaining a following. Those with a quacking curiosity can follow her at “quacklene” or they can visit her along with Vanessa when both are working at Chuck’s Wellness Center on Broadway.
Quacklene enjoys playing her puzzle game. If she wins she, of course, expects a treat.
(916) 990-6934
VET•CBD
The award-winning 20:1 formulation has been helping lives thrive since 2015. The most common reasons consumers use VETCBD are to help support joint mobility, normal brain function, maintain normal GI health, and maintain calmness. Dr. Shu crafts full-spectrum formulations, which include a small amount of THC, to provide optimal therapeutic benefits and achieve the “entourage effect.”
Foothill Mobile Veterinary Service
Foothill Mobile Veterinary Service is focused on the treatment of horses, as well as llamas, alpacas, sheep and goats. (NOTE: We do not treat dogs, cats, pigs, cattle, or exotics)
Our Services Include:
• Preventive Medicine and Vaccinations
• Disaster Management and Technical Rescue
• Colic Treatment and Wound Care
• Equine Dentistry, (Performed by a Veterinarian) with Powered Instruments
• Lameness Examinations & Radiographs
• Reproductive Examinations & Ultrasound
• Pre-Purchase Examinations
• Consultation and on-site animal management advice
Foothill Mobile Veterinary Service
530-622-0174 • 3281 Luneman Rd., Placerville email: dturoff@fmvs.biz | foothillmobilevet.com
Pets first aid 101
Story by Rob Warren UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Emergencies may happen over the course of your pet’s life. Do you know the best practices for handling them? UC Davis critical care veterinarians have some tips for you on when to seek immediate medical assistance and what to do to make your pet more comfortable or possibly save a life.
First and foremost, stay calm. Take a few deep, slow breaths and focus on the task at hand – this will give you the best chance of saving your dog or cat. Many emergencies happen outside the home, such as a car accident or hiking injury. As in the case of human first aid, your safety is paramount so that you can help an injured companion. Assess your surroundings. Are there cars, other animals or other hindrances nearby that could make the situation more dangerous? Is the injured animal showing overly aggressive tendencies? If so, a muzzle may be necessary. If you don’t have
one, a rope or leash can be used as a substitute. Even the sweetest dog can become aggressive in a chaotic situation or when they are in pain. Never take anything for granted in an emergency.
Once you feel the situation is stable, examine the animal. Is your pet listening to you and responsive to sounds? If so, your voice could help reassure them. Try not to panic – your calmness may help them feel less anxious.
Next, check your pet’s breathing. Is it heavy or labored? This may indicate a more severe issue. Check for any obvious injuries. Just because you don’t see wounds or major injuries doesn’t mean there aren’t any. Palpate your pet’s body to check for signs of pain. All of this will help you determine how quickly you need to seek veterinary care.
Remember, any first aid you administer is not a
substitute for professional veterinary care. Even with minor injuries, it is always a good idea to follow up with your primary veterinarian.
Woun�s, blee�ing, fractures
Many minor wounds can be managed at home, but if there is excessive bleeding (continuous after 10 minutes of constant pressure), seek veterinary care immediately. If the bleeding stops shortly after applying pressure, reduce environmental contamination by cleaning the wound with water and removing dirt or other debris. This may require trimming the hair around the wound if your pet allows. Do not use human medicine such as an antibiotic or pain relief ointment. Cover the wound with a clean, dry dressing such as gauze, and lightly bandage and wrap the area. If the bleeding is severe, keep pressure on the wound throughout transport to the nearest veterinary hospital. Internal bleeding is also a major concern in many accidents. Signs include: pale gums, weakness or collapse, distended belly and difficulty breathing.
Fractures can be some of the most painful injuries for animals, so keep your safety in mind, as dogs with broken bones may bite. Try to keep them as stable as possible while transporting them to the hospital. Securing your pet to a hard, flat surface is best, but do not apply pressure to the chest while securing – this may cut off their ability to breath.
Hangtown Kennel Club
Do not bandage or wrap an open fracture in any way. Also, do not splint a limb before transport. This could cause more pain or make the break worse. Do not give dogs or cats any human pain medications as they all have the potential for significant side effects in animals.
Seizures
Seizures manifest as rapid, uncontrolled jerking movements. Remain calm. Often, a seizure is more stressful for the human than the animal experiencing it. Time the seizure. If it is less than two minutes, it may not be severe and you can follow-up with your primary veterinarian (if your pet appears fine afterward). If it lasts longer than two minutes, you should seek immediate veterinary care.
During a seizure, keep your pet away from harmful objects or areas where it could sustain injury. Also, keep other pets away, as they may attack the animal in seizure. Do not restrain or hold your pet down; this could worsen the situation. Do not place your hand near its mouth, as animals tend to bite down while seizing.
Seizures may be symptoms of poisoning, epilepsy, meningitis or a brain tumor. It’s important to speak with your veterinarian to determine the cause and develop any needed treatment plan.
Heat stroke
Heat stroke can occur when a pet is trapped in a hot environment or through over-exertion. It can occur on both extremely hot and mild days if animals are not adjusted to the weather or caught somewhere without fresh air, like inside a car. Because dogs and cats cannot sweat, they rely on panting to cool down. Obese, brachycephalic, and thicker coated dogs may be more prone to heat stroke.
Heat stroke can damage all body tissues; the brain, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract are particularly vulnerable. Severe heat stroke can be fatal, even with advanced veterinary care. Prevention is the best option.
Never leave your pet in a car, even on a mildly warm day. In balmy 70-degree (F) temperatures, a car’s interior can increase to 89 degrees in 10 minutes and reach 104 degrees in 30 minutes.
Signs of heat stroke
Excessive panting or respiratory distress, drooling distress/restlessness, weakness, unsteady walking or collapse, Pale gums.
How to treat heat stroke
If the animal is weak, unsteady, collapsed,
disoriented, or having trouble breathing, seek veterinary care immediately. If the animal is panting heavily but still able to walk normally, move it to a cooler area and wet it down with water. Avoid making it too cold –normal body temperature for dogs and cats is 101 to 102.5 degrees (F). If an animal is panting heavily, a fan will help cool it more quickly. Give the animal access to water. If heat stroke symptoms do not subside within 30 minutes, seek veterinary care.
Insect bites or stings
There is a long-standing myth that spider bites are a common occurrence in animals. In fact, UC Davis faculty teach veterinary students that if an animal appears to have a bite, it is rarely from a spider.
Many animals however, do get stung by bees and wasps. These stings will cause swelling (often symmetrical, as the sting manifests as a systemic allergic reaction), pain and itchiness resulting in pawing at the site. If possible, remove the stinger. Common places for pets to get stung are on the tongue, in the mouth or on the lips because they often try to catch the insect with their mouth. Stings are often painful, so be cautious when handling your pet as they may bite when distressed or in pain.
If the reaction to the sting is mild, you can monitor your pet at home. Swelling will probably go down in 6-12 hours.
If the reaction is severe, causing your pet to vomit, have difficulty breathing and/or appear distressed or lethargic, seek veterinary care.
Signs of a snakebite may include: puncture marks, swelling, bruising or redness around the bite site, pain, bleeding, vomiting and weakness.
What to do if your pet has been bitten by a snake
Reduce movement – carry the bitten animal if possible. Walking on a bitten leg will increase the spread of venom throughout the body. Seek veterinary care ASAP – severe snakebites can be life threatening and the earlier treatment is provided, the less damage the bite will cause.
What not to do
Do not try to catch the snake. Do not cut around or suction over the fang marks. It is a myth that you can bleed or suck the venom out of the bite area. Do not place a tourniquet or wrap the bitten area if the bite is on a leg, as this can lead to more severe tissue injury. Do not place an ice pack on the bite. U
CAMERON PARK
Airport Pet Clinic 2995 Alhambra Drive (530) 677-7387
Cameron Park Vet Hospital 3931 Cambridge Road (530) 677-1671
Goldorado Animal Hospital 3460 Palmer Drive, Suite A (530) 677-8387
CAMINO
Camino Animal Hospital 4087 Carson Road (530) 644-6011
DIAMOND SPRINGS
Crossroads Vet Hospital 694 Pleasant Valley Road, Suite 10 (530) 642-9504
EL DORADO HILLS
Animal ONE Veterinary Hospital 2203 Francisco Drive (916) 314-0002
El Dorado Hills Pet Clinic 1011 St. Andrews Drive, Suite E (916) 933-3363
Green Valley Animal Hospital 321 Green Valley Road (916) 933-0527
Insight Veterinary Wellness Center 4509 Golden Foothill Pkwy. (916) 618-4700
MarketPlace Pet Clinic
4564 Post St. (916) 939-1705
Veterinary Healing Center
2222 Francisco Drive (916) 933-6030
GEORGETOWN
Black Oak Animal Hospital
3251 Marshall Road (530) 333-1544
PLACERVILLE
Missouri Flat Pet Clinic
4545 Missouri Flat Road (530) 622-8295
Placerville Vet Clinic 6610 Mother Lode Drive (530) 622-3943
Pleasant Valley Pet Clinic 4561 Pleasant Valley Road (530) 644-2424
Sierra Animal Hospital
7476 Green Valley Road (530) 626-4838
Slate Creek Animal Hospital 5630 Mother Lode Drive (530) 622-9195
Smith Flat Animal Hospital
2012 Smith Flat Road (530) 626-8180
EL DORADO COUNTY VETERINARIANS
POLLOCK PINES
Pollock Pines Veterinary Hospital 6223 Pony Express Trail (530) 644-5421
SHINGLE SPRINGS
Shingle Springs Veterinary Clinic 4211 Sunset Lane, Suite 101 (530) 677-0390
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE
Alpine Animal Hospital 921 Emerald Bay Road (530) 541-4040
Heal Integrative Veterinary Medicine
290 Kingsbury Grade Rd., #23 Stateline, NV (775) 580-6062
Roundhill Animal Hospital
392 Dorla Court, Ste. D Zephyr Cove, NV (775) 588-8744
Sierra Veterinary Hospital
3095 Lake Tahoe Blvd. (530) 542-1952
EMERGENCY CLINICS
All Creatures Emergency Veterinary Hospital 2210 E. Bidwell St., Suite 100, Folsom (916) 984-8387
Insight Veterinary Wellness Center 4509 Golden Foothill Pkwy., El Dorado Hills (916) 618-4700
MarQueen Pet Emergency & Specialty Group
9205 Sierra College Blvd., Suite 120, Roseville (916) 757-6600
VCA Bradshaw Animal Hospital 9609 Bradshaw Road, Elk Grove (916) 685-2494
UC Davis Veterinary Medicine
1 Garrod Drive, Davis (530) 752-1393
Dog grooming advice to keep pets clean and healthy
Family Features
Regular grooming can keep your dog looking and smelling his or her best, but it’s also important for maintaining health. If you choose to groom at home rather than opting for (often expensive) professional care, it’s also an opportunity to examine your pet for potential concerns.
A proper grooming routine starts with the right tools. Consider these suggestions from The Humane Society of the United States:
U Dog-friendly nail clippers
U Rubber-bristled brush
U Dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste
U Dog-friendly shampoo and conditioner
U Cotton balls
U Blunt-ended shears or small clippers with guides
U Microfiber towel
Callie has a genuine love for this area and her community. Her husband, Micah Smith, owns a local tree company, Tailored Tree. The two of them sponsor charity events throughout each year and nd various ways to give back. They both share a love for animals and themselves have four horses, three dogs and four cats, most of which are rescues.
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
Regular grooming can go a long way to keeping your pooch healthy.
Trimming nails
When your dog’s nails nearly touch the ground, it’s time for a trim, typically every 3-4 weeks. Trimming the part of the nail that turns down helps prevent pain and damage to paws.
If your dog has white nails, avoid cutting the “quick,” the pink part that’s visible on white nails, which bleeds when cut. For dark nails, simply trim a bit at a time until evidence of the quick is visible.
Bathing and brushing
Frequency for baths and brushing depends on your dog’s coat type — be sure to research optimal grooming schedules based on his or her breed. In general, The Humane Society of the United States recommends these guidelines:
U Short, smooth or wiry coat: Brush once a week with a rubber-bristled brush.
U Long, silky or curly coat: Brush once a day with a rubber-bristled brush or wire slicker brush. Use a steel comb to prevent tangles or mats, if necessary.
U Double coat: Use an undercoat rake or de-shedding tool to gently de-shed once a week in addition to regular brushing routines.
CHOCOLATES
GIFTS • LOCAL WINES
• Large selection of handmade artisan chocolates
• Our chocolates paired with wines from El Dorado & Amador Counties
• Gift boxes of all sizes for any occassion
Holiday & Gift • Treats & Pairings!
When it’s bath time, use a shampoo formulated for dogs and a damp cloth or cotton ball to clean around the eyes and ears without pushing anything into the eyes or ears. Dry with a microfiber towel or hair dryer on a low setting.
Cutting fur
Be careful and work slowly to avoid mistakes and keep your dog calm and comfortable. Brush, bathe and completely dry prior to cutting fur with blunt-ended shears or small clippers with guide combs. Specifically trim hair covering the eyes and private areas and between your pup’s paw pads. It may be helpful to watch a tutorial online to ensure success.
Brushing teeth
You can prevent gum disease and plaque buildup by brushing your dog’s teeth with a soft toothbrush and dog-friendly toothpaste. Make sure your pet is comfortable and start slow, staying on the outside surfaces of teeth and gently rubbing back and forth. Focus on the area where the tooth surface meets the gum.
Visit eLivingtoday.com to find more pet health advice. U
•
emily@scalesandtailspetcare.com scalesandtailspetcare.com (530) 748 - 6311
Americans say their pets inspire good money habits
Brandpoint content
Can your dog help you save?
New Empower research shows that Americans associate pet ownership with positive money habits, with 39% of people saying it inspires them to be more financially responsible, and 36% saying it motivates them to reach their financial goals.
Key takeaways
• More than a third of Americans (35%) say their pets motivate them to work harder and seek higher pay.
• Over half of Americans (57%) include their pets’ needs in long-term financial planning.
• 31% of Gen Zers (28% overall) would take a pay cut for a job with flexible hours so they could spend more time with their pet; 34% of Millennials (30% overall) would turn down a higher paying job to spend more time with their animal companions.
• 41% say they’d be more likely to return to the office if they could bring their pet to work; 26% say their dream job would offer pawternity leave (time off for getting a new pet).
• 1 in 5 Gen Zers have a dedicated savings account for their pet’s needs.
The pet effect
The majority of pet owners (94%) consider their four-legged friends part of the family, and more than half (57%) include their pets’ needs in long-term financial planning. Nearly 2 in 5 (39%) report becoming more financially responsible due to owning a pet. Close to a third (31%) saved up for pet expenses before getting one.
About 7 in 10 pet owners want to spoil their animal companions (71%), while almost a third buy things for their pets when they feel guilty about not spending enough time with them (32%). Income may also play a role in pet spending:
42% say the more money they make, the more they splurge on their pets. What would you do if your pet suddenly needed a trip to the vet?
Over three-quarters of Americans (77%) would tap into their savings or emergency fund to pay for an unexpected medical expense. Enrolling in pet insurance is one way to be prepared.
Sit. Stay. Spend.
Americans spent an average of $1,355 on their pets in the past year, and nearly 1 in 5 (19%) plan to spend more in 2024. On average, they spend $1,200 on food and $828 on vet bills each year. As for birthday and holiday pet gifts, Americans say they spend an average of $24 on those occasions.
Dog owners spend an average of 14% more on their pets than cat owners. But what about spending on pets versus people?
One in 3 (33%) pet owners say they buy more things for their pets than themselves, and over 2 in 5 (42%) spent more on their pets than on their closest friends. Some (16%) spent more on their pets than their significant other.
Paws and paychecks
More than a third of Americans (35%) say their pets motivate them to work harder and seek higher pay. For some, time is money: 34% of Millennials would decline a higher-paying job if it meant more time away from their pets (30% overall). Another 31% of Gen Zers (28% overall) would consider a pay cut in exchange for a job that offers flexible hours so they can spend more time with their pets.
People’s love for their pets often extends into their workplace preferences, with 41% of pet owners being more likely to return to the office if allowed to bring their pets. U
Teacher makes a tremendous difference through Guide Dogs for the Blind
Jessica Trumble-Pitel
Jodi Laird, a dedicated first-grade teacher at Green Valley Elementary School, has made a lasting impact not only in her classroom but throughout her community. For years, she has integrated her passion for raising Guide Dogs for the Blind into the educational experiences of her students, teaching them important life lessons while fostering compassion and responsibility.
Students at Green Valley have learned essential skills, from caring for puppies to regulating their emotions when interacting with animals. They’ve also gained hands-on experience with guide dog training practices, all while forming meaningful bonds as a class with a puppy in training.
Jodi’s journey with Guide Dogs for the Blind began as a way to bond with her own sons, but it quickly became something more — a passion she shares with her students and community. Reflecting on her experience, Jodi explained why she continues this work, balancing her role as an educator and a leader in the Guide Dogs for the Blind program.
“The puppies have been an incredible gift to our students, staff and school community,” she shared. “Even before beginning their formal training, they have already touched countless lives in profound ways. As Guide Dogs says, ‘Raise a puppy, change a life.’ In my case, raising 13 puppies has not only enriched my own family but also made a lasting impact on the lives of Green Valley’s staff, students and their families, long before the puppies head off to ‘college’.”
Meet Guide Dogs for the Blind
Guide Dogs for the Blind believes that everyone deserves to move through the world safely and confidently — to live the life they want to live. The passionate community employs innovative practices to create life-changing partnerships. And, they advocate for the policy reforms that change how the world views blindness and disability. Because when everyone is empowered to participate, communities are stronger.
With world-class client services and a robust network of instructors, puppy raisers, donors and volunteers, GDB prepare highly qualified guide dogs and K9 Buddy dogs, provide guide dog readiness skills and offer youth programs to empower individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
As the largest guide dog school in North America, more than 16,000 guide dog teams have graduated from GDB from across the U.S. and Canada since its founding in 1942. All of their services are provided free of charge, including personalized training and ongoing support, plus financial assistance for veterinary care, if needed. The work is made possible by the generous support of donors and volunteers; GDB receives no government funding.
Guide Dogs for the Blind is an accredited member of the International Guide Dog Federation. U
Courtesy photo
Jodi and Houdini (pup No. 12) on graduation day for the Guide Dogs for the Blind Program.
(Automotive
Name: Patches Owner: Carmen Moyapetersen Hometown: El Dorado Breed: Domestic Cat Favorite activity: Loves to look out window.
Name: Jack Owners: Dennis & Cynthia Eyler Hometown: El Dorado Hills Breed: Cat Favorite activity: Looking for things that aren’t there!
Name: Rusty Owner: April, Jason, Blake and Emma Hometown: Placerville Breed: Labordoodle Favorite activity: Playing soccer.
EQUINE & PET SERVICES
Boarding & Day Care for Dogs, Cats, Exotics
Alicia Davidson is a certi ed animal care specialist who is very passionate about your animals. She goes out of her way to make pets feel welcome and loved while in her care.
Rede ning a dog’s idea of “boarding”, one wag at a time!
530.497.0393
5020 Coyote Hill Rd., Placerville • placervilledoghouse.com
HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS
While this night may be a wonderful time for you and your two-legged kids, it’s important to keep in mind that ‘All Hallows Eve’ can present some new dangers for your cats and dogs and, therefore, may not be as fun an evening for your four-legged kids. Here are 4 safety tips for your pet to avoid:
1) Xylitol (deadly for dogs)
2) Raisins (toxic)
3) Chocolate (toxic)
4) Snack and Candy Bags (suffocation)
YOUR HAPPY HEALTHY PETS U
Name: Max
Owner: Krysten Kellum & Brendan Wilce
Hometown: Placerville
Breed: Australian Cattle Dog
Favorite activity: Loves swimming, frisbee, jumping off docks and diving boards and snuggling.
Name: Don Miguel
Owners: Dennis & Cynthia Eyler
Hometown: El Dorado Hills
Breed: Horse
Favorite activity: Relaxing in his private quarters.
Name: Sassy
Owners: Dale and Connie Rosen
Hometown: Pollock Pines Breed: Tuxedo Cat
Favorite activity: Bossing the other animals.
YOUR HAPPY HEALTHY PETS U
Name: Penny, Rescued, age 2
Owners: Loretta, David and Christopher Hometown: Camino
Name: Smoky, 10 yrs
Owners: Julie and Brian Samrick
Hometown: El Dorado Hills
Breed: Havanese
Favorite activity: Loves to take walks and chase squirrels in the backyard. Favorite words are “treat” and “daddy.”
Favorite activity: Licking her nutter butter dog ice cream during hot summer days.
Favorite activity: They love to chase each
AGILITY
OBEDIENCE
PUPPY CLASSES
SCENT SPORTS RALLY OBEDIENCE
SOCIALIZATION ISSUES TRICKS and more
DAY, EVENING & WEEKEND CLASSES TOO HOT? TOO WET?
Good Thru 12/31/24
Name: Max (Yellow), Sylvester (Tuxedo)
Owners: Dale and Connie Rosen
Hometown: Pollock Pines
Breed: Domestic Cats
other.
Genny & Mario
Name: Stone Owners: Lois and Larry Leibnitz Hometown: Pollock Pines Favorite activity: Avid TV watcher.
YOUR HAPPY HEALTHY PETS U
Name: Oliver (Booper)
Owner: Rayven Kerner
Hometown: Pollock Pines
Breed: Snowshoe Simese
Favorite activity: Fetching his jiggly ball.
Name: Ryker
Owner: Jason Kerner
Hometown: Pollock Pines
Breed: Domestic Favorite activity: Cuddling any time possible.
Denali will turn 5 years old on October 21st. She has been with the Department for a little over 2-1/2 years now. In that time, Denali and Captain Jamie Preston, her handler and a fire investigator, have responded to dozens of fires within the El Dorado County Fire Protection District, three outside agency requests, and have completed over 500 hours of continued training. The pair has also made several appearances at public
events, such as the 4th of July parades, National Night Out, Halloween festivals, 9/11 memorials, and a Critical Incident Stress Debriefing where Denali offered emotional support to the firefighters dealing with tough situations. Denali continues to be an asset to the Department and the public we serve. Captain Preston is also licensed as a paramedic. When it's time to go to work, Denali accompanies Captain Preston
there, too. At the end of each shift, she returns home with Captain Preston and his family where she gets to enjoy life as a dog with her other Lab "siblings". The Accelerant Detection Canine program is entirely funded by private donations to a designated canine fund through the El Dorado County Professional Firefighters Association.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Pro t Organization
SUPPORT OUR EFFORTS
HartSong Ranch is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization. 100% of donations go to the best possible care of the sanctuary animals, the pups rescued via our two Dog Rescue Programs, and future rescue efforts. This is made possible only through the generous support of our caring donors. Please consider donating today to help HartSong continue its mission.
THE SANCTUARY ANIMALS
Feeding Little, Blind Ciara
HartSong Ranch Animal Sanctuary is a 30-acre facility offering a lifetime of care to 60+ previously neglected and abused horses, cows, goats, sheep, pigs, chickens, ducks, and geese. We provide a platform to observe firsthand the way farm animals behave when they are not expected to be used for milk, meat, clothing, or labor. We allow the animals living within our gates to simply be; and, as a result, connect to one another and humans with an awe-inspiring sense of calm and trust. Come to meet these remarkable beings! Schedule a fieldtrip/tour by calling us today.
ADOPTABLE DOG RESCUE PROGRAM
HartSong Ranch pulls shelter dogs that are never allowed on adoption room floors due to failed temperament evaluations– ‘RED LISTED’ for euthanasia because they are terrified or shut down emotionally in the shelter environment. They are immediately placed into loving foster homes, allowed time to decompress and then once ready, placed up for adoption.
We pull senior dogs scheduled for euthanasia from the shelter environment. They are placed into loving, warm “fospice” homes (foster + hospice) until they take their last breath. Our mission is to make the last days/months/years of a senior pup’s life the best they have ever known. HartSong Ranch covers all expenses. Please consider becoming a fospice care provider.
• Become a volunteer
• Become a canine foster
• Become a “fospice” care provider
together until combined. Roll out to cracker thin. Cut out with cookie cutters.
Bake at 350F for 15 to 20 minutes until crisp.
IN SHINGLE SPRINGS
Safety and con dence is achieved through understanding and
Susan’s passion and commitment is teaching horses and owners to communicate with each other — to build a partnership. She emphasizes a strong foundation of good behaviors that produces soft, willing partners in equines without force or devices, as well as teaching humans how
A
We Take Personalized Pet Care To The NEXT LEVEL!
Pets are family! That’s why we’ve thought of everything when it comes to the care of your pets while you are away.
Woofie’s® offers both in-home overnight care and our signature 24-hour Bed & Biscuit Overnight Care™. We start with an in-home consultation so we can get to know more about your pet’s routine care, feeding, personality, and answer any of the questions you have about our services and policies.
We know what it’s like to leave your furbaby for an extended period of time. Woofie’s® gives you peace of mind, knowing that your pup is in the best of hands while you are away.
Our professional dog walkers offer 15, 20, or 30-minute visits that include exercise, playtime, water bowl refreshing, waste removal, and of course, LOTS of love and attention!
Dog Walking
Woofie’s® mobile pet spa brings all of the comforts and amenities of an upscale grooming salon right to your front door.
Our fully equipped, state-of-the-art mobile pet spa is designed with your convenience and your pet’s comfort in mind.
Our services include mani-pedis, luxury baths, full or mini grooms and more!
Pet and Farm Sitting
Whether you are going away for the weekend, an extended vacation, or it’s just another day at the of ce, Bark to Barn Pet & Farm Sitting will be there to feed, walk, play and scratch on your pets - both the inside kids & the barn critters! The bonus for you is the absolute peace of mind knowing that your pet family is receiving plenty of love, care & attention while you’re away.
KELLEY IS A GENUINELY KIND AND TRUSTWORTHY PERSON, AND WE SLEEP WELL KNOWING THAT SOMEONE OF HIGH INTEGRITY IS IN OUR HOME.
FINDING SOMEONE YOU CAN TRUST WHO’LL HAVE YOUR ANIMALS’ BEST INTEREST IN MIND IS HARD, BUT KELLEY WAS VERY ORGANIZED, KEPT ME UPDATED, AND I HAD FULL CONFIDENCE ALL OF MY ANIMALS WERE WELL LOOKED AFTER.
