North Central Iowa Pet Directory

North Central Iowa Pet Directory

THE

essenger July 29, 2022

Dr. Steve Leppert

Dr. Steven Leppert

712-469-2008

515-825-3141

Services • Canine / Feline Equine • Livestock • Laboratory

2894 190th St., Manson, IA 50563

Canine / Feline • Equine Livestock • Laboratory

412 W. Webster, Goldfield, IA, 50542

Dr. Bruce C. Towne, DVM, DACVPM, MPH, CVA

Dr Kortney Sherburne DVM

Canine / Feline • Equine Livestock • Laboratory • Acupuncture

515-352-3044

1201 Lincoln St., Gowrie, IA 50543

Pets

Best Friends Furever!

Studies show that health benefits associated with pet ownership included

lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as increased levels of physical activity. Many pet owners also report decreased levels of anxiety and depression as a result of the emotional support, companionship and sense of purpose their animals friends provide. Here are a few more pet facts you may not know.

85 Million American Households have Pets

60.2% are Dogs 47.1% are Cats 12.5% are Fish 7.9% are Birds

$69.4 Billion is Spent on American

45% of Dogs

Sleep in Bed with Their People

62% of Cats

Sleep in Bed with Their People

Pets by Their Owners

3.2 Million

Dogs & Cats are Adopted From US Shelters Each Year

1.5 7.6 Million Million

Animals are Euthanized in US Shelters Each Year

Companion Animals Enter US Shelters Each Year

Interesting Animal Facts: • A housefly hums in the key of F • Cats have lived with people for over 7,000 years • Woodpeckers can pec 20 times per second • Dalmatians are completely white at birth • A bat can eat up to 1,000 insects per hour • Tigers have striped skins as well as their fur • You can tell a turtle’s gender by the noise it makes. Males grunt, females hiss.

• A chicken with red earlobes will produce brown eyes, a chicken with white earlobes will produce white eggs.

Source: American Pet Products Association’s 2017-2018 National Pet Owners Survey, Humane Society of the United States, thefactsite.com, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Your Other Family Doctor!

Wellness Care • Dentistry • Surgery Internal Medicine Boarding • Laser Therapy

Kimberly Shimkat, D.V.M. 2807 N. 15th St. • Fort Dodge • 955-3631 Hours: M-F: 8-5 • Sat: 8-Noon 2

North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Best Friends Furever Page 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Things to Consider Before Adding a Pet Page 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . What type of dog best fits me?

Page 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Why spay and neuter your pets?

Page 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tips to make crate training your puppy easier Page 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Come to the rescue & Be a hero Page 9 . . . . . Cats available for adoption at Almost Home Fort Dodge Page 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bedding: A Big choice for small pets Page 11. . . Dogs available for adoption at Almost Home Fort Dodge Page 12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Keep Man’s Best Friend Healthy Page 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Protect Pets from Pesticides Page 14. . . . . . . . . . . . After losing a pet, when is it time to love again?

Page 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Item’s needed at Almost Home Fort Dodge

ADVERTISER INDEX Front Cover ......................Manson, Goldfield, Clarion Vets Page 2 .............................. Family Pet Medical Page 3 .............................. Pederson Sanitation Page 6 .........................................Pet Kingdom Page 8 ....................................... Almost Home Page 10 ...............Humboldt Veterinary Clinic Page 12 ...................................... Nestle Purina Page 14 ................................... Ashes to Ashes Back Cover ................ ISU- Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center

INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL

PEDERSON SANITATION COMPACTOR & ROLL-OFF SERVICE

RESIDENTIAL RURAL

Locally Owned Since 1950

Fort Dodge, IA

955-4190

North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022

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Things to Consider Before Adding a Pet Getting a family pet is a big step. In addition to financial considerations, parents who have decided it’s time for an addition to the family have many more things to consider, not the least of which is what pet is the most appropriate choice for the family.

Children will no doubt jump at the chance to add a pet to the family, likely preferring a dog or a cat. While pets can be a great way to teach your child about responsibility and friendship, among other things, it’s wise for parents to recognize that not every pet is tailor-made for every family. Consider the following: • Age of your children. Some would strongly recommend keeping your home pet-free until your children are at least six years old, when they’re already in school and have already begun to mature. However, as the Humane Society of the United States points out, parents are the best judge of their child’s maturity. If you feel your child, though young, is capable of exhibiting the self-control and discipline necessary to care for an animal, then by all means go ahead and add one to the family. A good barometer could be how your child acts around pets owned by friends or extended family. If possible, set up a time when your child can play with other people’s pets.

• Type of animal. Most children, when told the family is getting a pet, are quick to think “dog,” as dogs are known for being more social and fun-loving than cats. That said, the breed of dog can be important. However, the Humane Society notes that all dogs can bite and the behavioral tendencies of a dog often play a more significant role in how well your child and dog will interact. Therefore, look for a dog that has been treated properly and socializes well with other people and animals.

Ronnie Breed: Hound / Boxer Age: 6y 8m Gender: Male Color: Red / White Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Large Hi my name is Ronnie. I am about 6 years old and I came to Almost Home as a stray. I am a super sweet boy who looks a little rough around the edges so I may have been on the run for awhile.

I love people and my all time favorite thing to do is play fetch! I would play all day if you let me! I need a home with no other animals. I am up to date on all of my vaccinations and I tested negative for heartworm. I am micro-chipped and neutered. Do you have room in your home for me?

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While saving a dog from a shelter is a great idea and one that can also teach a valuable lesson to your child, be cautious around dogs that have been sheltered because they’re products of abuse from previous owners or owners who did not train or feed them properly. Such dogs may not be as trusting of humans, taking a while to warm up to a new family, and might react negatively toward your child. Shelters typically inform potential adopters of a dog’s special needs, such as a family free from other pets or young children.

• Make sure a pet is what you want. Children learn the most from their parents, who must set a positive example for their children. That applies to everything, and pets are no exception. Adults who aren’t thrilled about a pet shouldn’t get one simply because it’s what their children want, particularly if children are young and won’t be handling many of the responsibilities. Children can learn how to deal with pets and even people from watching you care for a family pet. If pets have traditionally gotten under your skin, holding off on a family pet until your child will be the one largely responsible for its care is probably your best bet.

• Lay down the law before the pet comes home.

Let your child know beforehand that the latest addition won’t be just a friend, but a responsibility as well. Again, much of this will be based on your own assessment of your child’s maturity, but even a toddler can be involved in the care of a pet. Something as simple as filling a water dish can instill an early sense of responsibility in a child, and more responsibility can be granted as your child’s maturity level grows. It’s important that children’s roles in caring for a pet are set in stone before the pet is welcomed into the family.

• Discuss possible behaviors of both children and animals. In addition to establishing responsibilities beforehand, parents should let their children know of certain behaviors their pet may be prone to. Typical behaviors should be discussed with a breeder or adoption agency. For instance, if you plan on keeping the dog outside in a fenced-in area, the dog might look at that area as his, and could grow defensive when anyone tries to enter it. Also, certain behavior from children, such as screaming loudly or throwing tantrums, could cause an animal to react negatively. Discuss behaviors that are offlimits to avoid potential problems.

North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022

What type of dog best fits me?

THE SEVEN GROUPS

Each of the more than 190 AKC registered breeds are assigned to one of seven groups representing characteristics and functions the breeds were originally bred for.

AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION AT ALMOST HOME

TERRIER GROUP All but two of the terriers evolved in the British Isles. The geography of the specific area (water, rocky terrain) determine the exact duties of each breed, but it usually involved hunting vermin and varmints ranging from rats to badgers to otters and more. These are dogs of great determination, courage and self-confidence.

TOY GROUP Toy dogs are bred: to be companions. Many have been bred down from the larger breed and still resemble their larger cousins. Their small size and portability make them ideal for city dwellers and those with limited space.

WORKING GROUP While the uses and appearances of the dogs in the Working Group vary, most are powerfully built and intelligent, performing various tasks. These dogs are working farm and draft animals. They serve heroically as police and military dogs, security dogs, service dogs and hunters.

SPORTING GROUP The sporting, or gun dogs aid in hunting upland game birds or waterfowl, performing at the direction of the hunter. While a number perform more than one task, it is the duty of pointers and setters to point and mark game; for spaniels to flush game; and for retrievers to recover dead and wounded game.

HOUND GROUP Originally classified as sporting dogs these breeds in the Hound Group are of a great variety of size, shape and coat. Most of these breeds were developed to hunt somewhat independently. This group consists of dogs that hunt by tracking a scent. Sight hounds spot their game and run it down.

Breed: Terrier, American Pit Bull / Mix Age: 4y 10m

Gender: Male Color: Brown / White Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Medium

Hi, my name is Marshall. I am 4 years old and I came to Almost Home when my owner was having health issues and could no longer take care of me. I have some special requirements for adoption, so any potential adopters will be learning a lot about me before I’m able to go home. I am a super sweet boy who is not too big and not too small. I need a home with no young kids, cats, or dogs. I LOVE to play and I also love to snuggle and be a couch potato! I am up to date on all of my vaccinations and I tested negative for heartworm.

I am microchipped and I am neutered. Do you have room in your home for me?

NON-SPORTING GROUP Hounds and terriers were split from the Sporting Group, and the Toys and Working class dogs were split off from Non-Sporting, with the Herding Group eventually splitting from the working group.

Today, the Non-Sporting Group is literally every breed that is left, resulting in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, hair and function.

HERDING GROUP Herding is a natural instinct in dogs that is seen in the wild. Humans have used that instinct to their advantage on farms and ranches with herding dogs who have the purpose of gathering and moving livestock from one place to another. This is still in use today!

To identify dog breeds by category contact www.akc.org/dog-breeds/

Breed: Retriever, Labrador / Mix Age: 7y 2m

Gender: Male Color: Black Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Medium

Hi my name is Felix. I am 6.5 years old and I came to Almost Home when my owner passed away. I have a lot of energy!

I love people, kids, and other dogs but I need a home with no cats.I am up to date on all my vaccinations and I tested negative for heartworm. I am also micro-chipped and neutered. Do you have room for me in your home?

North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022

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WHY SPAY AND NEUTER YOUR PETS? Pet owners can help put an end to a sad situation: Each year, thousands of kittens and puppies wind up in shelters as a result of accidental litters from pets that are not spayed or neutered. While they may be small in size, these unplanned offspring have a giant impact on a community, including higher costs to taxpayers for the community to trap and transport homeless litters to shelters, higher costs for shelters to house, feed and care for these pets and shelter overcrowding—which increases euthanasia rates.

An estimated 11,000 pets in this country are euthanized daily, according to a PetSmart Charities study—that’s half of the 8 million pets that land in shelters each year.

Not all of these pets start out homeless. Half of U.S. pet owners who’ve had a pregnant dog or cat say the pregnancy happened “by accident,” according to statistics from the study. These accidental litters could be easily avoided by early spaying and neutering.

Philip Bushby, a veterinarian and professor of shelter medicine at Mississippi State University, believes that spaying and neutering pets at an early age not only reduces the economical and societal impact of pet homelessness, but also improves the long-term health of the pet.

“Most puppies and kittens can safely be spayed or neutered at as early as 8 to 10 weeks of age. If you wait longer, you’re risking an unplanned litter,” Dr. Bushby said, adding that early spaying and neutering is good for pets, with benefits such as:

• Reduced aggression: Cats and dogs that have been spayed/neutered are less aggressive than unaltered pets, which means fewer fights, less risk of contracting contagious diseases and lower vet bills.

• Wandering: Pets that aren’t fixed are more likely to stray away from home in search of a mate. Spaying and neutering reduces this urge, keeping your pet close to home and out of harm’s way.

• Less marking: Dogs and cats mark with urine when they are trying to “claim” their territory—like your couch. After a spay/neuter operation, pets become less territorial, and this behavior decreases dramatically.

Pet Kingdom

Nearly 50 Years of Providing Quality Pet Products & Services

Two Levels of Shopping Fun! Grooming Spa too!

All Pets Welcome!

Monday-Friday 9AM to 4PM 117 East State Street Algona, IA 50511• 515-295-2374 Saturday 9AM to 1PM • Closed Sunday 6

• Fewer health problems: “Pets that have been fixed are less likely to develop mammary and reproductive cancers, as well as some potentially fatal infections,” said Dr. Bushby. And, there’s evidence that the earlier it’s done, the better. “Contrary to belief, having the surgery performed before your pet’s first heat period actually amplifies these benefits.”

AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION AT ALMOST HOME Breed: Domestic Shorthair / Mix Age: 2y 5m Gender: Male Color: Black Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Small Declawed: No Hi, my name is Curly! I’m 2 years old and came to Almost Home as a stray. I am super friendly and affectionate, and would love to be your best friend. I get along fine with female cats, but I can be a bit dominant toward other male cats. My friends at the shelter haven’t seen me with dogs or kids, but they have a feeling I would be good with them considering my laid-back temperament. I am up to date on all of my vaccinations and I tested negative for FIV and FeLV. I am micro-chipped and neutered.

Do you have room in your home for me?

North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022

PETS

Tips to make crate training your puppy easier To those who have never crated or even owned a dog, the idea of crate training often comes off as cruel and unusual punishment. In reality, many dogs have a natural need for a den-like enclosure, and a crate satisfies that need, improving the animal’s life as a result.

Crate training can also help dog owners housebreak a puppy. Dogs are reluctant to soil their sleeping places, so it can be easier to housebreak a pet that is crated than one that isn’t. In addition, crating prevents destructive behavior and helps owners rest easy when they leave the home, knowing that their pet is safe in its crate and not likely to be exposed to harmful items around the house, be it household cleaning products or electrical wires.

While the benefits of crating are numerous for owner and dog alike, that doesn’t mean the process will be easy. In fact, many dog owners struggle to get their best friends acclimated to their crates. When starting a dog’s crate training, owners should consider the following tips.

• Crate the dog from the get-go. The earlier crate training begins, the more successful it is likely to be. Dogs who are crate trained when young often see their crates as a respite or a place to relax and hangout throughout the rest of their lives. So the earlier owners get started the more likely pets are to enjoy their crates.

• Never use the crate as punishment. A dog will likely never grow accustomed to or comfortable with its crate if the crate is used as a punishment for bad behavior. Owners are not buying the crate to act as a jail cell, but rather a comfortable and safe place for dogs to spend time during the day or sleep in at night. Using a crate as punishment, even if it’s only done once, could make it impossible for owners to ever acclimate their pets to a crate.

• Make the crate a place the dog will want to be. A crate doesn’t have to include just a bed and some bowls. A crate can be furnished with some of the dog’s favorite toys and treats so the crate is a place the dog loves. When placing such items, place on the opposite side of the door opening. Because dogs will spend most of their time in the crate when their owners are away, it’s best to only place larger toys that cannot be swallowed to prevent choking and illness. Inspect the crate daily to ensure no items have been chipped or broken and become choking hazards as a result.

• Don’t isolate the crate. A crate should not be isolated from everyone in the home. When home, move the crate so the dog and crate are near you. If watching television in the living room, carry the crate into the room with you. This makes the crate more attractive and won’t instill feelings of isolation in the dog when it’s in the crate. In addition, the dog won’t associate the crate with feelings of isolation when you’re not home. At night, place the crate near your bed to further ensure the dog does not feel isolated when in its crate.

• Don’t place the dog in the crate unless absolutely necessary. A dog should want to enter the crate. Owners who push or pull their dogs into the crate may find their dog will always be reluctant to enter the crate. If bed time arrives and the dog is genuinely reluctant to enter the crate, then owners might want to gently place the dog inside the crate. In such instances, make sure the crate is close to your own bed so the dog does not mistake being placed in the crate as punishment.

When crate training a dog, owners can easily grow frustrated. However, the more a dog associates the crate with positivity, the easier the process becomes.

North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022

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COME TO THE RESCUE & BE HIS HERO Almost Home is a non-profi t organization funded solely by donations.

Almost Home is a non-profit organization funded solely We are a limited intake (“no-kill”) facility that provides transitional care donations.

We are a limited intake (“no-kill”) facility forby abandoned companion animals until forever homes can be found for them.

We primarily serve North that provides transitional care for abandoned companion Central Iowa. We promote animals until forever homes can beeducation found and for spaying them. humane We primarily serve North Central iowa. your Wepets. promote and neutering We no money from thepets. state humane education and spayingreceive and neutering your or city... we rely on your generous We receive no money from thedonations state orsocity... wehelp rely we can theon in need in animals our community Happygenerous and healthy in our care, your donations so weanimals can help the in and surrounding areas. until they find their forever homes

need in ourADOPT community and surrounding areas.

Are you ready to add a new family member to your home?

Start here by filling out an adoption application!

FOSTER

Our foster program provides temporary housing and care for cats, kittens, dogs and puppies who have special needs or just aren’t ready for adoption yet.

DONATE

Our shelter is completely reliant on the generosity of our donors and there are many ways to help!

HOURS Wednesday & Saturday (Public walk-ins): 11 am - 4 pm Tuesday, Thursday, FridayStreet,Fort (Appointment only): 11 am - 4 pm 725 South 32nd Dodge

955-8343 • almosthomeiowa.org 725 South 32nd Street, Fort Dodge Hours: Tues-Sat 11am-5pm,

955-8343 almosthomeiowa.org Sun &•Mon - Closed

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DONATE

Your tax-deductible contribution to Almost Home directly supports the care and nurturing of the animals in the shelter.

North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022

LOOKING FOR A FUREVER HOME These pets, plus many more, are available at Almost Home in Fort Dodge

Squirtle

Breed: Domestic Shorthair / Mix Age: 2m 27d Gender: Male Color: Buff Spayed/Neutered: No Size: Small Declawed: No

Cosmo

Breed: Domestic Shorthair / Mix Age: 4m 8d Gender: Male Color: Black / Brown Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Small Declawed: No

Kylie

Breed: Domestic Shorthair / Mix Age: 1y 3m Gender: Female Color: Black / Orange Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Small Declawed: No

Oreo

Breed: Domestic Shorthair / Mix Age: 2y 5m Gender: Male Color: White / Black Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Small Declawed: No

Fluffy

Breed: Domestic Longhair / Mix Age: 1y 3m Gender: Male Color: Grey Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Small Declawed: No

Mew

Breed: Domestic Shorthair / Mix Age: 2m 27d Gender: Male Color: Buff Spayed/Neutered: No Size: Small Declawed: No

Clover

Breed: Domestic Shorthair / Mix Age: 4m 8d Gender: Male Color: Black / Brown Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Small Declawed: No

Pansy

Breed: Domestic Shorthair / Mix Age: 3m 5d Gender: Female Color: Brown / Black Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Small Declawed: No

Marnie

Breed: Domestic Shorthair / Mix Age: 3m 5d Gender: Male Color: Buff Spayed/Neutered: No Size: Small Declawed: No

Tico

Breed: Domestic Shorthair / Mix Age: 2y 5m Gender: Male Color: Grey Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Small Declawed: No

North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022

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RABBITS Bedding: A Big Choice For Small Pets The next time you consider expanding your family to include a hamster, Guinea pig, bunny or other small pet, you won’t be alone. Some 16 million U.S. families currently co-habitate with small pets, according to the American Pet Products Association National Pet Owners Survey.

Of particular importance for small pets is their living environment. Unlike dogs and cats, which enjoy more mobility, most small animals are confined to enclosures that become their entire world.

Creature Comforts Each item that goes into the pets’ living spaces requires careful consideration, especially the bedding, as there is a wide variety of options, including wood shavings (pine, aspen and cedar), paper (reclaimed sludge-based and sludgefree), corncobs, pellets made of wood, paper, wheat and other fibers, and crinkled paper. They’re not all alike, however. Some bedding products may actually contain toxins. A review by the Michigan State University Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health of previous testing confirmed that beddings made using reclaimed pulp fibers are “…more likely to contain detectable levels of dioxin than other products such as wood shavings or by-product papers.”

Reclaimed pulp beddings are made with fibers collected from pulp mill sewage systems. Though the paper industry has made efforts to rid their waste streams of the most troubling compounds, tests conducted by independent laboratories showed detectable amounts of dioxin in samples of the reclaimed pulp paper beddings tested. In addition, pellets made from recycled newspaper also tested positive for dioxins. Both of these types of beddings are widely used by consumers.

What To Look For When you choose small-pet bedding, there are certain functional features to look for, such as absorbency, odor control, limited dust and ease of use. The price per use of these beddings varies, with pine typically being the most cost effective, followed by aspen and cedar, corncob, paper and various pelletized products, in order of least to most expensive. Safety is also an important consideration, and it is recommended that pet owners focus on bedding that is all natural, sludge-free and dioxin-free.

With that foundation, then make your bedding choice based on what is most important for you and your pet.

Learn More You can access free, downloadable small-pet bedding information, and many pet care facts and tips, at the website of the leading provider of animal bedding in the United States, American Wood Fibers (AWF): www.awf.com/smallpetcare.

Our top priority is to provide comprehensive, compassionate veterinary care to our clients and their animals 2112 10th Ave N, Humboldt, IA 50548

Phone: 515-332-2346 humvet@humboldtvetclinic.com | www.humboldtvetclinic.com 10

Aubrey Cordray

Renee Bertram

Tracy Lindquist

James Illg

Leigh Meyer

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Office Hours: Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm; Sat: 8am-2pm* *Open the 1st & 3rd Saturday of each month.

North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022

LOOKING FOR A FUREVER HOME These pets, plus many more, are available at Almost Home in Fort Dodge

Baby

Breed: Retriever, Labrador / Terrier, American Pit Bull Age: 1y Gender: Female Color: Black / White Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Large

Latte

Breed: Terrier, American Pit Bull / Mix Age: 3y 2m Gender: Female Color: Brindle Spayed/Neutered: Yes

Size: Large

Binx

Breed: Siberian Husky / Terrier Age: 7y 2m Gender: Female Color: Black / White Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Medium

Jake

Breed: Brittany / Mix Age: 3y 8m Gender: Male Color: Black / White Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Medium

Kingston

Breed: Retriever, Labrador / Mix Age: 1y 8m Gender: Male Color: Black / White Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Large

Azaria

Breed: Terrier, American Pit Bull / Mix Age: 3y 6m Gender: Female Color: Brindle Spayed/Neutered: No Size: Large

Sally

Breed: Terrier, American Pit Bull / Mix Age: 5y 10m Gender: Female Color: White / Brown Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Medium

Stitch

Breed: Boxer / Terrier, American Pit Bull Age: 3y Gender: Male Color: Black / White Spayed/Neutered: No Size: Large

Lilo

Breed: Boxer / Terrier, American Pit Bull Age: 3y Gender: Female Color: Blue Spayed/Neutered: No Size: Medium

Oatmeal

Breed: Retriever, Labrador / Mix Age: 3y 2m Gender: Female Color: Tan Spayed/Neutered: Yes Size: Medium

North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022

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Fitness for Fido Keep Man’s Best Friend Healthy Dog owners are well aware that caring for man’s best friend has taken on a greater responsibility in recent years. Perhaps that’s a result of the popularity of the cable channel Animal Planet or the television show “The Dog Whisperer,” each of which has helped to educate dog owners about caring for their canines.

Caring for a dog might be a daily responsibility, but it’s one that’s often enjoyable for both dogs and humans alike. Dog owners concerned about their best friend’s health or those simply hoping to avoid problems down the road can adopt a daily routine that ensures Fido stays active and healthy for years to come.

• Freshen up the dog’s water. While this might seem obvious, keeping fresh water in a dog’s bowl is something many owners overlook, sometimes leaving the same water in a dog’s dish for days on end. Unfortunately, when that happens owners are allowing dirt and dust to build up in the water, which can also become stagnant and prove a great breeding ground for insects if the bowl is outdoors. Humans need a certain amount of water each day to stay healthy, and so do dogs. Change the dog’s water at least once per day and twice if the dog eats two meals per day. Also, keep an eye on the water bowl and refill it whenever it’s empty. Be sure to clean inside the water bowl at least once per day, and pay attention to any dirt buildup on outdoor water bowls and clean accordingly.

• Feed the dog healthy pet food. Though it might seem fun and friendly to feed a dog directly from the dinner table, it’s best to only feed the dog high quality dog food. All dogs are different, and dog owners should consult their veterinarian as to which food is best for their particular breed. While less expensive dog foods might be appealing, keep in mind such foods might be

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the equivalent of fast food restaurants for humans, which often provide little or no nutritive value.

• Take the dog out every day. Few animals on earth are as naturally active as dogs. Dogs need daily exercise to stay healthy both physically and mentally, so owners should make certain their dog gets substantial physical activity every day. A walk around the block might suffice for smaller breeds, while a trip to the dog park where Fido can run, jump and play with other dogs might be best for medium-sized or larger breeds. Avid outdoors people should take their dog along for hikes through the woods or along for any other excursions they feel their dog can handle. Consult a veterinarian for the recommended daily amount of exercise depending on the breed, but know that all breeds of dogs need exercise as part of their daily routine.

• Play with your dog. A healthy dog isn’t one that’s just physically healthy, but one that’s mentally healthy as well. Dogs need attention on a daily basis, as most breeds are highly susceptible to boredom. Make time to play with your dog every day, as play time with a dog can help it avoid feelings of boredom while providing stimulation for the dog. In addition to playing with the dog, try to include an activity such as teaching the dog to fetch the frisbee.

Such activities pull double duty, providing the dog both exercise and mental stimulation, not to mention fun for the dog owner.

• Give the dog some freedom. The conventional wisdom that a dog can be chained in the backyard and left there for hours has thankfully fallen by the wayside. Nowadays, such behavior from dog owners is commonly viewed as abuse. Dogs should not be chained for extended periods of time, and exposing dogs to the elements of nature for prolong periods is potentially very dangerous. A dog’s fur, regardless of its thickness, can only protect it against winter weather for so long, and dogs can overheat very quickly in warmer climates. If the dog must be chained, make sure the chain is long enough to allow for significant mobility and do your best to minimize the amount of time the dog is on the chain.

North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022

Protect Pets from Pesticides When using pesticides or other chemical-based products around the house, prevent pets from accessing treated areas after application.

Homeowners use pesticides in their yards for a variety of reasons.

Some utilize pesticides to make their lawns appear lush and healthy, while others must use pesticides to address issues like insect infestations.

Applying pesticides is often frowned upon by environmentalists, but it’s not just Mother Earth who can suffer from the use of pesticides. If your family pet loves to get outdoors and run around in the yard, you might be putting your four-legged friend in danger if you’re not careful when applying pesticides. Exposure to pesticides can make pets sick and, in some instances, prove fatal. But pet owners can reduce that risk significantly by adhering to the following tips.

Remove pets and their items from the lawn before applying pesticide.

It’s a no-brainer to move Fido inside before applying pesticide to your lawn. But homeowners should also scour the yard for toys, bedding and feeding dishes and move them inside or into the garage before applying a pesticide. Pet health could be at risk if such items are left in the yard and get even a drop or two of pesticide on them. Therefore, carefully scour the yard for your pet’s belongings, raking high grass to find toys or bones when necessary, before applying pesticides.

Adhere to the instructions on the pesticide label. The label on the pesticide you choose should have specific instructions as to how much pesticide you should apply and how long you must wait before allowing anyone, including the family pet, to gain access to the treated area. If you let your pet back in the area too quickly, the animal could be poisoned.

Be careful inside, too. Chemical products are not only used to treat lawns. If you need to use a chemical product like a bug bomb indoors, keep pets in mind before application. Remove bedding, feeding dishes and toys, and cover your fish tank to prevent liquid and vapors from getting into the tank and threatening the lives of your fish.

Keep areas treated for pests off limits to pets. If you have a pest problem in your home, be it insects or rodents, keep any areas you treat with chemical products off limits until the issue has been successfully resolved. Even if pets aren’t in the room during or after application, they can still be poisoned if they eat poisoned insects or rodents. This is called secondary poisoning, and pet owners concerned about their pets but still in need of a way to eradicate pests should look for a product with a low risk for secondary poisoning.

Keep bait products out of the reach of your pets. Bait products are often effective because they’re attractive to insects or rodents. Unfortunately, the same properties that attract pests might also attract your companion animal. When using bait products around the house, be sure to place them beyond the reach of your pets. If you’re using bait products that you must bury outdoors, keep in mind that dogs and maybe even cats can often dig these products up rather easily.

So once the bait is planted, make the area off limits to your pets.

North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022

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After losing a pet, when is it time to love again?

The passing of a pet can be an experience similar to losing another important member of the family. Even though the loss is inevitable, it can still be shocking when a pet passes away.

Upon the death of a pet, many pet owners need some time to mourn and grow accustomed to living without their pet. Though some might prefer to adopt a new pet shortly after a pet dies, others may need time to decide if this is the right decision. The following are some factors for pet owners to consider, courtesy of Vet Street, WebMD, Bark, and RainbowsBridge.com, as they try to decide what to do after losing a pet.

Home doesn’t feel complete Many previous dog owners feel their homes are empty or not complete without the presence of a four-legged friend. People who live alone and relied on a recently deceased pet for companionship or safety may consider adopting sooner than busy families or those who have roommates to keep them occupied.

Why get another pet?

Pet owners must ask themselves why they want another pet. If the main reason is to dull the pain of loss, it may be better to wait until something other than emotion is driving the decision.

Other pets/people If there are other pets in the house, think about how they may react to having a new addition in the house. Just because one person is ready for the responsibility of a new pet doesn’t mean everyone is. All opinions and personalities should be considered and all voices heard before bringing a new pet into the home.

Is it time for a break?

Some pet lovers may need a break from the responsibility of pet ownership — especially if a recently deceased pet was difficult to care for in its final years.

Existing lifestyle New pets may require a decade-plus commitment. While it may have been easy the first time around, those who are facing retirement and the possibility of travel or have children leaving the home may want to think about whether or not pets suit their current or future lifestyles.

The death of a pet is a difficult experience. Some pet owners may respond by immediately adopting a new animal, but it may be wise for pet owners to make time to grieve and decide if a new pet is a commitment they can make.

Ashes to Ashes Pet CremAtion SPECIALIZING IN HORSE AND EQUINE CREMATION

• Cremation available for pets of all sizes • Urns, caskets, memorials and keepsake items available • Pick-up service available from your home or veterinarian • Guaranteed single pet, private cremation • Large service area in Iowa and surrounding states

Scott and Aimee Devereaux

22331 590th Street, Pomeroy, Iowa • 712-358-2600 • Fax: 712-359-2434 Email - ashes@ncn.net • Website: www.iowapetcremation.com

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North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022

Monetary Donations

(Cash, check, gift cards) Clumping cat litter Dry cat/dog food

Wet cat/dog food Cat/dog toys

Laundry detergent Dawn dish soap Bleach

13 gallon trash bags

North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022

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North Central Iowa Pet Directory • A publication of The Messenger • July 2022