pet northwest
DECEMBER 2011
MAGAZINE
SPOKANE | COEUR D’ALENE | SPOKANE VALLEY | SANDPOINT | DEER PARK
Professional Full Service Grooming • Canine Nutrition • Collars & Leashes Custom Leather Products • Dog Beds • Dog Accessories
COMING SOON... DOGTOWN PLAYGROUND! 518 S Thor Street | Spokane, WA
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10
Fostering a Pet
8
Pets with Purpose
24
Do's & Don'ts
14
Great Gift Ideas
16 Pet Travel Etiquette
20
WHAT’S INSIDE Locally Produced
Comunity Spotlight
Allen Designs Clocks Santa Pet Photos
Pet Spotlight Reindeer Sweet Treats Gingerbread Cookies Look... I’m Famous! Directory
Community Pet Photos
7 9 22 27 28 31
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MAGAZI NE
PUBLISHER ZOLT Publishing EDITOR Emily Olson CREATIVE DIRECTOR Laura Olson ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Emily Olson | Laura Olson CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Emily Olson | Laura Olson | Don Cutler | Mollie Olson 1302 N Government Way | Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814 Mon-Sat 9AM to 6PM and Sunday 10AM to 5PM
EDITORIAL INQUIRIES OR SUBMISSIONS Northwest Pet Magazine welcomes editorial inquiries and suggestions. Please contact Emily at emily@northwestpetmagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES WASHINGTON: Please contact Emily at (509) 979-2028 or emily@northwestpetmagazine.com IDAHO: Please contact Laura at (208) 262-1234 or laura@northwestpetmagazine.com
Northwest Pet Magazine is published monthly by ZOLT Publishing 2600A E Seltice Way #306 Post Falls, ID 83854 Phone: (208) 457.7211 info@NorthwestPetMagazine.com www.NorthwestPetMagazine.com
MAIN ADVERTISING OFFICE: 208.457.7211 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from publisher. Photographs, graphics,and artwork are the property of ZOLT Publishing. © 2011 ZOLT Publishing Printed in the U.S.A. on Recycled Paper
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Every pet deserves to be loved!
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Providing quality pet food, a wide variety of pet supplies, grooming supplies and much more! Visit us today... Please check our website for extended holiday hours and special events! Mon-Sat: 10am - 6pm • Sunday: 12pm- 5pm
9423 N Newport HWY • Spokane, WA 99218 www.yuppypuppyspokane.com
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december activity guide
Tree Lighting Ceremony December 4th Panhandle Animal Shelter 870 Kootenai Cut-off Road, Ponderay, ID Panhandle Animal Shelter welcomes guests to come in for treats, photos with Santa (animals and children) and the lighting celebration of our compassion tree. For more information contact the shelter at 208-265-7297 or visit www.iesda.org.
Kris Kringle, Kritters and Kocktails December 9th, 5-7pm Pampurred Pet Boutique 920 N Spokane St, Post Falls, ID Join us for an evening of cocktails and social. Store-wide sales, Kris Kringle pet photos, free dog treats and more! Have a local event? Submit it online at www.northwestpetmagazine.com
Rescue Pet Spotlight Kittens, Kittens! Short, medium and long haired kittens to choose from... all colors! For more information on these cuties contact: Hope's Haven Animal Shelter St. Maries, ID 208-245-7387 hopeshaven@smgazette.com
Moon
Templin Templin loves to have a good time and if there's a ball involved, all the better !! He knows his basic commands. Templin is a bit nervous of fast movements and does guard high value items, so he may not be well suited to homes with small children. For more information contact: Kootenai Humane Society, Hayden, ID (208)772-4019
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Moon is a friendly Arabian mare that loves attention and treats. She would make a great pasture buddy for another horse or a companion horse for an individual who likes "horse therapy". She has not been ridden due to a shoulder injury prior to her rescue. Fore more information on Moon, contact: The Shepherds Way Animal Rescue, Springdale, WA 509-258-7110
Loving, Forever Homes Needed... Adopt Today!
Allen Designs Clocks We were introduced to Allen Designs' funky wall clocks at one of our local pet supply stores, Prairie Dog Pet Mercantile, and instantly fell in love! Michelle Allen is an artist through and through. She has said that her love of the imperfect, eccentric, witty world around her is what has influenced her designs. Never one to take herself or her work too seriously, Allen states that if something seems too perfect in her art, she will skew it towards the unrealistic in order to capture the essence of a whim. With a passion for putting the fun in functional pieces, Michelle Allen and her team at Allen Designs is located in Vancouver, WA and can be visited online or at many artisan shows. Allen Designs' functional art is available at www.allendesignsstudio.com.
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northwest pet magazine
Christmas Do's & Dont's compiled by Laura Olson
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1.
Do check your outside animals' paws for impacted snow, which can cause them discomfort.
2.
Do keep your pets well away from ponds and lakes that are iced over. Thin ice can break under a dog's weight.
3.
Don't forget your dog as you deck the halls... many plants are poisonous, including poinsettia and ivy berries.
4.
Do pick-up those Christmas bulbs or ornaments that fall off the tree and onto the floor... dogs especially are curious chewers and many of these are made of glass.
5.
Do keep electrical cords tucked away and watch out for dangling objects that can be pulled down and cause injury. Candles should never be left unattended. Also, if you have a Christmas tree, don't let your dog drink the tree water - it can make her sick!
6.
Don't forget poultry bones can be dangerous to cats and dogs; they can become stuck in throats or splinter and pierce their intestinal tract.
7.
Don't ignore your pets need for adequate exercise while you celebrate... try to make sure they are getting daily exercise.
8.
Don't let your dog get lost in the shuffle. Holiday parties and gatherings can be fun for us, but not for your dog. Extra people in your home can result in injury or stress for your dog. A large crowd is not the place for most dogs, so consider keeping her in a crate or quiet room - especially if they are the nervous type.
9.
Do keep the doors closed! Many pets get loose and run off during the holiday season. Though your dog should always wear a collar with current identification, this is especially important during the holiday season.
St. Nick...
Pets & Family | northwest pet magazine
Santa Pet Photo Locations
This holiday get your pet into the spirit of the season by including them in the fun! Santa photos for everyone...
More Veterinarians Trust Us... You can, too!
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Pearl Theater 7160 Ash Street Bonners Ferry, ID 12/2 from 12-6pm, 12/3 from 10-4pm
Come visit Gromit at the North side store
Silver Lake Mall 200 W Hanley Ave CDA, ID 12/5 4pm to close, 12/12 4pm to close Spokane Valley Mall 14700 E Indiana Ave Spokane Valley, WA 12/5 6pm to close, 12/12 6pm to close Diva Dog Boutique 911 W Garland Ave Spokane, WA 12/3 11am Pampurred Pet Boutique 920 N Spokane St Post Falls, ID 12/9 5-7PM
Premium Natural & Holistic Pet Foods Grain Free Food & Treats Nutritional Supplements Stella & Chew’s RAW & Freeze Dried, Nature’s Variety RAW & dry kibble, Orijen, ACANA, Taste of the Wild, Nutrisco, CANIDAE, Felidae, Nature’s Logic, Zukes, First Mate, Great Life, WELLNESS, Holistic Select, INNOVA, California Natural, EVO
Dogtown Company 518 S Thor Spokane, WA Call 509.534-4880 for details. Petco 420 Wilbur Ave CDA, ID 12/2, 12/3, 12/4 9-6pm, 12/10 1PM-5PM Petco 6302 N Division Spokane, WA 12/10 10am - 2pm Petco 2805 E 29th Ave Spokane, WA 12/17 12:30pm - 2:30pm, 12/18 12:30-2:30pm Petco N 10 Sullivan Rd Veradale, WA 12/17 11:30-3:30pm
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Fostering a pet... is it right for you? written by Mollie Olson
According to the Human Society of the United States, there are an estimated 6-8 million dogs and cats that enter shelters across the United States. Sadly, 3-4 million of those animals are later euthanized for a variety of reasons.
well with my particular situation and living arrangements. She added that if there were any issues with the placement she would, and has, switched dogs to a more suitable location. I felt confident enough to proceed...and I am so glad I did.
The reason why someone would choose to foster a dog is a personal one and varies in as many ways as there are foster parents. After the death of my most beloved dog, Oliver, I felt the absence of his presence and began to contemplate adopting another dog. I was hesitant though, given the great commitment required to adopt and care for a dog. It was during this period that I happened upon a dog rescue site that was advertising their need for dog fosters.
Given the abundance of dogs in the system, I was contacted immediately and began fostering my first foster dog, “Chip” just a few days later. The local animal shelter contacted the dog rescue because they did not feel comfortable putting Chip up for adoption because of his extreme fear issues. They noted that he did not do well with a shelter set-up nor the constant stream of families wanting to handle and play with him. As the shelter had indicated, Chip was very shy when I first met him and would not come near me initially. I am not going to lie and say that doubts did not rush into my head, but rather I pushed through those doubts and began unpacking the items that the rescue had left for him such as his crate and his food. Once that was finished and there was still no progress towards having Chip cross the room to me I decided to sit down on the couch for a moment to figure out my next step. Much to my surprise, Chip flew up onto the couch and snuggled in next to me and then proceeded to fall asleep. This is when the love affair began. Chip stayed with me for 7 weeks until he found his forever home. When the rescue picked him up to take him to his new home, I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and pride. I had positively affected another living being’s life and I felt peace knowing that he was going to a good home. It saddens me greatly to think that because of our shelters’
A foster person is someone who takes care of an animal as they go through the adoption process until they are permanently re-homed. Fostering is particularly helpful with dogs that, for a variety of reasons, do not do well in the shelter system. My own dog would have been one of these dogs and would have done horribly in an animal shelter. I was excited by the idea of helping dogs who, due to breed or circumstance, just needed a little extra TLC. While I filled out the application to become a foster, thoughts rushed through my mind as to whether this was the right time, if I had enough resources to commit to fostering a dog or even whether my apartment was the ideal location for a dog. Lucky for me, I was volunteering at a great organization where the founder was extremely knowledgeable about the different dog breeds and their special needs. She reassured me that she would only place a dog with me if she knew that dog would do 10 northwest pet magazine
overpopulation, an incredibly sweet dog such as Chip, could have been euthanized for not being outgoing enough. I have since fostered a few dogs and each time the experience is as rewarding as my first with Chip. My current foster dog, Cindi, is an adorable little girl who was seized in a police raid so she has some fear of strangers but we are working on those issues and I am confident she will also find her forever home. The one question that I get a lot when I tell people I foster dogs is, “How can you bare to part from the dog once you have bonded?” My response is probably what the questioner already knows…that it is difficult to part with an animal that you have cared for but it gets easier over time.
Everything your good dog deserves!
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roughout the Holidays!
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3115 N. Government Way #3 | Coeur d’’Alene, Idaho 83815 www.GoodDog-us.com
Chip
The knowledge that you have helped another living being find a better place or avoid a sad end is satisfaction enough. I think about adopting each dog I foster and becoming what in the foster world is referred to as a “foster failure", but then I think about the next dog that is waiting for a space with me so he too can avoid a sad end. So long as I keep fostering, I am confident that I can make a positive impact on my foster dogs and that they will eventually go to their best home where they will be loved for all their days.
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facebook: GoodDog
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Pet Picks | northwest pet magazine
Food & Hydration Pack Orvis - Northwest Outfitters 2171 N Main St, CDA
Ore Pet Bowls Pet Vittles 919 N Argonne Rd, Spokane Valley
pet picks
What's on your pet's wish list?
Pet Gear - Booster Seat Pampurred Pet Boutique 920 N Spokane St, #4, Post Falls
Sleepy Pod - Carriers GoodDog 3115 Government Way #3, CDA
R&D Development - Raised Feeder Dogtown Company 518 S Thor, Spokane
Rekindle Pride Collar GoodDog 3115 Government Way #3, CDA
www.northwestpetmagazine.com 13
northwest pet magazine | Great Gifts
Pets on Canvas Pups and Pinot Pop open a bottle of wine at your next cocktail party and toast a good cause. Carivintâs Winery’s Dog Lovers Wine Club offers a variety of gifts that support animal rescue centers and shelters around the country. Each label pictures a pooch―you can even personalize one with your four-legged companion. Visit dogloverswineclub.com.
Great for any headshot photo, this artwork style combines dramatic shapes with abstract background details. Comes in your choice of canvas or paper. Visit AllPopart.com
great
Biscuit Tin For the dog owner that has rustic decor. Pet Vittles 919 N Argonne Rd, Spokane Valley
Allen Design Clocks
gifts
With a variety styles to choose from you're sure to find the perfect clock... something to suit every dog, cat, horse and critter lover. Prairie Dog Pet Mercantile 2917 E Palouse HWY, Spokane
for the pet lover in your life
Lab Weather Vane Brushed copper ads a classic touch to this pet lover's piece. Pet Vittles 919 N Argonne Rd, Spokane Valley
Wine Barrel Toy Bin Decorating your home is fun so add a touch of distinction with this cool looking bin. Orvis - Northwest Outfitters 2171 N Main St, CDA
Cat Nap This print captures a moment of affection between two lazy cats on a summer afternoon. Each print is individually customized for you... personalized art with your names in the heart. www.personal-prints.com
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Folkmanis Sheepdog Puppet This soft and cuddly little dog is the perfect pet! When not being used as a puppet he is a fluffy stuffed animal. GoodDog 3115 N Government, CDA
Etiquette for the Traveling Dog by Emily Olson
How often have we encountered a definitive “no” when inquiring about whether pets are allowed at a certain hotel, outdoor café or store. Ever wonder why so many businesses seem so intolerant of pets? Somewhere, at some time, somebody let their pet run amok in that shopkeeper’s store, or was allowed to chew through the 1500 thread-count sheets at that fancy hotel. As pet owners, when we stumble onto those few and far between businesses that embrace the pet community it is our duty to remember that we are representing all pet owners everywhere and abide by certain pet etiquette rules to keep that opportunity available for future pet travelers to come. This is your overall Miss Manners etiquette guide for traveling with your pet. Enjoy, travel safely and behave responsibly!
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First and foremost it is important to assess your pet to determine if they are fit for travel, both physically and emotionally. Here is a great guide for before you leave with your pet as provided by takeyourpet.com
Assess your pet. Be honest about your pet's ability to travel. If your pet is very young or old, or is ill, pregnant, or recovering from surgery, it may be better for all concerned to look into a pet sitter or kennel rather than take a chance on injuring your pet by taking it with you. If you are in doubt, ask your veterinarian. If your pet has not traveled before, try a short overnight or weekend trip first.
Never allow your pet to wear a choke, pinch, or training collar while traveling. Safety collars, which attach with elastic or Velcro, are recommended for cats.
Before you leave. Clip your pet's nails. Pets with freshly-trimmed nails will be less likely to damage items in strange surroundings and will be easier to restrain if necessary.
Brush your pet to remove all loose hair. If your pet has fleas, obtain and complete the necessary treatment before traveling to avoid infesting its new surroundings.
Schedule a visit with your veterinarian. Inform your veterinarian where you will be traveling to, for how long, as well as whether your pet will be traveling by air or car. Ask your veterinarian about any flea, heartworm, or tick risks for areas you will be traveling to. If your pet becomes carsick or restless when traveling, ask your veterinarian about appropriate medications or treatments. Many pets become separated from their people while traveling and often collars are not on pets when they are recovered at shelters. Seriously consider having your pet microchipped - animal hospitals, humane societies, kennels, and shelters nationwide are using scanners that will read these implanted chips and let you be reunited with your lost pet. Microchip procedures are safe, quick, inexpensive, and very common. Your veterinarian can tell you more about this procedure. Make certain that all vaccinations are up to date and obtain current health and rabies certificates no more than ten (10) days prior to your departure. You will be required to have these if your pet is traveling by air. These certificates are also strongly recommended if your plans do not include air travel as you may need to board your pet unexpectedly and many kennels will not accept pets without these certificates. And, if your pet does require emergency medical care, these will allow this to take place much more quickly and without the potentially dangerous duplication of vaccinations.
Obtain a secure carrier for your pet.
Things to bring • A sturdy leash. • An extra collar. • An old blanket or sheet for the back seat of your car or wherever the pet's carrier will be secured to make cleanup easier. • Two old sheets to cover bedding and furniture at your destination. • Some of your pet's bedding. • Food. If you do not feed a brand you are certain will be available at your destination and along the way, bring enough for the whole trip. If you feed canned, bring a can opener and spoon. • Two gallons of extra drinking water from home. When you are down to the last half gallon, begin mixing in equal parts with the water supply at your destination. If your pet is especially sensitive, use distilled water. • Food & water bowl set. • Portable water bowl or bottle for use when away from your lodging.
You need a sturdy, properly ventilated crate of adequate size for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down in comfortably. Knobs or a rim at least 3/4 inches deep is required so that the ventilation will not be blocked. The crate should be free of interior hazardous protrusions, have a door that securely latches, and have handles or grips on the outside to prevent anyone who might need to handle the crate from being bitten. The bottom should be leak proof and covered with a towel or other absorbent material.
• Treats.
Print your pet's name and your name, address, and phone number for both your home and destination on the outside of the crate with permanent marker. Include your personal 800 number if you have one or the words "call collect". Never put a leash in the crate as your pet could get tangled in it. Make sure your pet is accustomed to the crate before you begin your trip.
• Baby wipes or moist towelettes to wipe off paws.
Verify that your pet's tags are current. Your pet should wear a secure collar at all times with tags showing proof of rabies vaccination and your name, address, and phone number in case your pet becomes separated. Make a set of temporary paper tags with the address and phone number at your destination.
• Toys or chew items. • All required medications, supplements, and preventatives. • Tweezers to remove foreign objects from fur or paws. • Brush or comb. • Lint and hair remover.
• For cats, a full litter pan with extra litter, liners, and newspaper to place underneath for cats. • Waste removal bags. • Old towels, carpet cleaner, disinfectant spray, and trash bags for accidents. • First aid kit. • Flashlight for nighttime walks.
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Be prepared for the worst. While no one likes to think about it, many pets do become separated while away from home. To increase the chances of a safe and quick return, bring a recent photograph and written description of your pet including call name, breed, sex, age, any microchip or tattoo numbers, and a description of coat, color and markings including any unusual markings, scars, or other identifying marks, as well as weight and height. These will be invaluable if your pet does become separated. When in the following situations or locations here are some good tips to keep your pet etiquette at it’s best.
Everywhere • Always call ahead to make sure an establishment or place allows dogs. • Only travel with a well-behaved dog that is friendly to people and especially children. If your dog is not comfortable around other people, you might consider taking your dog to obedience classes or hiring a professional trainer. • Please keep your dog leashed. People that are afraid of dogs or even people with leashed dogs will greatly appreciate it. Plus most hotel owners, restaurant owners, store owners, and festival coordinators require your dog to be on leash. • Always clean up after your dog. Pet stores sell pooper scooper bags. You can also buy sandwich bags from your local grocery store. They work quite well and are cheap! • Wipe off muddy or dirty paws before your pet enters the room. • If your pet should damage property, report it immediately and volunteer to pay any costs.
Festivals, Outdoor Events • Make sure your dog has relieved himself or herself before entering a festival or event area. The number one reason that most festival coordinators do not allow dogs is because some dogs go to the bathroom in areas where people might sit or on a vendor's booth.
Hotel Lobby/Check In • Announce your pet and inquire as to areas to walk your pet and areas that your pet is not permitted. • Also ask about any ant or insect poisons in use; many of these are toxic to pets. • Unless it is obvious, ask the hotel clerk if dogs are allowed in the hotel lobby.
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Hotel Rooms • Never leave your dog alone in the hotel room. The number one reason hotel management does not allow dogs is because some people leave them in the room alone. Some dogs, no matter how well-trained, can cause damage, bark continuously or scare the housekeepers. Unless the hotel management allows it, please make sure your dog is never left alone in the room. We have even found a case where two dogs were stolen from a hotel room. • If you do need to leave your pet alone in the room, inform the front desk and turn on your radio or television to keep your pet entertained • While you are in the room with your dog, place the Do Not Disturb sign on the door or keep the dead bolt locked. Many housekeepers have been surprised or scared by dogs when entering a room. • When your dog needs to go to the bathroom, take him or her away from the hotel rooms and the bushes located right next to the rooms. Try to find some dirt or bushes near the parking lot. Some hotels have a designated pet walk area. • Cover any furniture and beds your pet will be allowed on. Never permit your pet to sleep on beds, chairs, or bed spreads unless they have been covered with your own complete bed covering. • Place your pet's food and water bowls on a mat or feed them outside. Litter boxes should go in the bathroom to make cleanup easier and newspaper should be placed underneath.
Restaurants • Most of the pet friendly restaurants only allow 1-2 dogs per table. If you have more dogs than this, you might want to ask the management if it is okay. Stores • Keep a close eye on your dog and make sure they do not go to the bathroom in the store. Store owners that allow dogs inside assume that responsible dog owners will be entering their store. Before entering a dog-friendly store, visit your local pet store first. They are by far the most forgiving. If your dog does not go to the bathroom there, then you are off to a great start! If your dog does make a mistake in any store, offer to clean it up.
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northwest pet magazine
Great Gifts for the Birders on your list! Pet Goodies Galore! 509.927.0675 919 N Argonne Rd Spokane Valley, WA 99212
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Just for Fun | northwest pet magazine
Santa's Search
• • • • • • • • • Since dogs and cats play such an important part in our lives, we assumed that there’s a place for them nearly everywhere. Certainly, a great many years ago, Santa Claus thought so. He decided that there was no nobler animal than the dog, and no better creature to pull his sleigh on Christmas Eve. Naturally, Santa’s first choices were northern breeds: huskies, Chinooks, malamutes, and various mutts of similar stock. Unfortunately, Santa’s timing was poor, having attempted to form a team just as the entire northern canine community decided that pulling Santa’s sleigh was just another energy-sapping, paw-freezing, butt-dragging, escapade, like the ubiquitous dog sled races all the humans thought were so much fun. The male dogs in the group demanded hourly breaks to intake hot chocolate and the females complained that Santa never listened, and never would understand how they felt about things. They were especially irritated that the lead dogs were always males, which created a particular problem: the females were always downwind, and sometimes, while flying at full speed, a male decided to mark an asteroid. Then, there were the Golden Retrievers, chosen for their pleasant temperament and desire to please. The concept had possibilities: Eight creatures streaking over snow and sea like iridescent feathers flowing in unison. But, good ideas sometimes come to bad ends. The first Christmas Eve out, a sudden gust of wind tipped the sleigh, upending Santa’s great sack of gifts and sending it into the night sky, among other things, several dozen tennis balls. When each dog tried to fly after their favorite orb, they ended up in a harness tangle that in terms of frenzy resembled a net full of thrashing salmon. The Dachshunds were another bad idea. For one thing, it took 120 of them to pull the sleigh. Plus, he realized that if a poem were ever to be written about his exploits, it just could not contain a line about 480 tiny feet on a rooftop; hail storms are not poetic, at least not in a Christmas poem. In a fit of pique, Santa tried cats. He thought they carried a certain mystique: silent, ghostlike creatures streaking across the sky. Except on star-lit nights, they’d often stop, balance on their back legs, and swipe at stars as if they were sparkling dust fairies. Even if they’d wanted to cooperate, they just couldn’t stay focused. Plus, it can be said they didn’t give a whit what Santa thought about their performance. He tried tortoises (too slow), gazelles (too fast—wind chill), lions (too hungry), Scottish Deerhounds (too lazy), and even tried harnessing a fox in front of a team of hounds. He tried more dogs German Shepherds (too serious), Bernese Mountain dogs (not serious enough), Australian Cattle dogs (too excited), and Basset Hounds (disinterested—but polite). He tried Labrador retrievers, but while he was harnessing them up for their first trip, Mrs. Claus made the mistake of leaning out the door and shouting to Mr. Claus, “Dinner!” The exuberant dogs bit through the leather harness straps and barreled toward the house.
Desperate, Santa even tried using lemmings, with predictable results. One lemming (Rolf) took the lead, which turned out to be unfortunate, since he had an inner ear condition, and he couldn’t fly straight. Of course, all the others simply followed him, and the swarm ended up swirling around the stratosphere like a flock of starlings. Santa ended up with motion-sickness, and in desperation, actually barfed down a chimney in La Rochepot, France. It was not a happy Christmas for a certain little French girl and boy! Centuries, ages, epochs later, Santa, having tried every animal species he could think of, was exhausted. Even a consultation with Noah proved fruitless, producing nothing more than a griping session about the weather. He sent elves to every corner of the earth with instructions to catalogue every animal that might be able to fly and pull a heavy object. He sent an elf called Floyd to northern Scandinavia, and since he was reliable and diligent, the little fellow carefully scripted his findings on parchment. He was excited because he’d found the perfect animal for Santa’s job, but, alas, on the trip home, careless during a long night in a Finnish bar, he spilled vodka on it, smearing the ink. Having forgotten what he had written down, Floyd had nothing to provide Santa other than a blurry manuscript. Santa studied the parchment for days, trying to make out the smudged letters, with limited success. He could make out an R, and a d, and what might have been an e; otherwise, nothing made sense. Christmas was only two months away, and Santa had a lot to do. If he could find the elusive sleigh-pulling beasts he’d still have minimal time to give them flight lessons, arrange teamwork sessions with a consultant, and coach daily workouts in both sprints and long-distance flying. Santa was so distraught that he couldn’t sleep and began to lose weight at an alarming rate. In the evenings, Mrs. Claus would chatter away, trying to lift Santa’s spirits, but to no avail. Indeed, for a great while it seemed that there would never again be Christmas. However, serendipity can be a wonderful thing. One evening in late November, Santa was pacing his kitchen, his body and brain entirely wrung out. He sat defeated in his chair and stared out the window. The weather had warmed and it didn’t even resemble Christmas at the North Pole. He picked up a pair of scissors, and gathering his beard fibers in one hand, he guided them between the blades. (Why look the part if you can’t play it?) Then—and this is true—Mrs. Claus, in an attempt to make idle conversation, looked out the window and said, “It looks like rain, dear.” The rest is history.
written by Don Cutler
www.northwestpetmagazine.com 21
FAQ
About Reindeer by Don Cutler
What is a reindeer? It’s a member of the deer family, as are moose and elk. In North America, reindeer are called caribou; they have the same Latin Name: Rangifer tarandus (Latin for “A reindeer is the same as a caribou”). Some people use the term reindeer to indicate the domesticated version of the caribou. How are they different from other deer? For one thing, they’re the only member of the deer family in which both males and females have antlers. Males and non-pregnant females shed their antlers in winter; pregnant females shed theirs after giving birth. Plus, reindeer are uniquely suited to a certain job unavailable to other members of the deer family: pulling Santa’s sleigh. Moose don’t like to pull sleighs, and white-tail deer are too finicky. What do they use those huge antlers for? While they use them for defense from predators (and sometimes each other), they are particularly useful for scraping away snow to find the delicious vegetation below. That’s most likely why the females evolved with antlers. Where do they live? Reindeer typically live in cold, snowy climates, where it’s bright most of the summer, and dark almost all winter. There are various subspecies in Finland, Norway, Russia, Canada and other regions, but they’re all close relatives. They are not aggressive animals; unlike some relatives, they get along well.
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With all that snow and darkness, how do they see? They’re believed to be the only animal that can see ultraviolet light. That helps them see things in situations with poor light—for example, a light-colored wolf against a snowy background. How big are they? Most adult reindeer stand from 3 ft. to 5 ft. tall at the shoulder, and weigh from 170 to over 400 lbs. There is a great variation in size, depending on the subspecies. One variety grows to only about 2-1/2 feet tall—small enough to fit inside a doghouse! What do reindeer eat? They’ve adapted to living in cold forest land and on the tundra. Their favorite foods include moss, birch trees, lichen, and various grasses. Some have been observed eating mushrooms, bird eggs, fish, and even lemmings (from which they make lemming meringue pie). They also eat children on Santa’s naughty list. Do reindeer have anything to worry about? Yes. They’re hunted by polar bears, grizzly bears, wolves, eagles, wolverines, and humans. Plus, in summer, black flies and mosquitoes are so thick and aggressive that as soon as their calves are born, they migrate from the birthing grounds to the coastlands, where the insects aren’t as vigorous. They have been hunted by human beings for more than 10,000 years. Trapping pits and hunting shelters from the Stone Age have been found in Norway. What is their life like? That depends. Some are wild, like the caribou herds in Canada. Their life is nomadic, and some migrate more than 1,000 miles each year. In winter they move to forests, where they forage under the snow for grass and other food. Many reindeer have been domesticated—that is, they’re raised in herds by people living in Greenland, and other northern countries. They travel with their people, but usually not more than one hundred miles in a season. They’re also excellent swimmers. Sometimes swimming doesn’t work out very well; once, one was found in the stomach of a shark.
Happy Holidays
from your friends at Kootenai Animal Hospital!
Do they like living where it’s so cold? Yes, because they’re prepared for the weather. Their long hair is hollow, which helps it hold warmth near their bodies. Their hooves consist of four sections, which spread out on ice and help them walk without slipping.
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How long do they live? Wild males live about eight years; females, about ten or a bit longer.
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Are reindeer important to human beings? Very much so, especially in Norway, Greenland, Siberia, and other places. They are raised and harvested for their meat, antlers, and hides. Reindeer milk is an important source of nutrition.
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Do we have wild reindeer in Washington and Idaho? There are very few left in the lower forty-eight states. A small herd (perhaps three dozen) lives in the Selkirk Mountains in North Idaho. They were listed as endangered (in the lower 48 states) in 1984, and it’s been very difficult to reestablish a population. What are baby reindeer like? Calves are born in spring, and begin grazing on their own by mid-summer. When they’re young, their mother keeps them close, since calves like to wander. Even when young, they’re extremely fast. They can run thirty mph when young, and up to fifty mph when fully grown. In fall, they become independent from their mothers. How did Santa settle on Reindeer to pull his sleigh? He tried various other animals, including hedgehogs, with poor results. Finally, in 1823, he settled on the eight named in the poem, “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” by Clement C. Moore. Professor Moore irritated Santa by making up his own names for the reindeer. Their names were really Walt, Kirby, Norberth, Uma, Humphrey, Gustavus, Theodore, and Mort. Given the popularity of the poem, Santa later had the reindeer names legally changed to Dasher, Dancer, etc. What about Rudolph? In 1939 a man named Robert May created Rudolph as the subject of a children’s book published by Montgomery Ward, the department store company. Before settling on the name Rudolph, Mr. May considered naming the deer “Rollo” and “Reginald” before settling on Rudolph. Can reindeer really fly? Yes, although some scientists still dispute the fact. Several research studies are presently going on that should clarify the issue.
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www.northwestpetmagazine.com 23
northwest pet magazine | Pets with Purpose
The Horses of K2 Ranch
compiled by Laura Olson
Keith and Katherine Wacholz, owners of the K2 Equestrian Ranch (located in Hayden, Idaho), understand the benefits of equine assisted therapy and their horses do too! Studies have proven spending time with a friendly animal, even for 10-15 minutes, increases the amount of endorphins that are released into the body and decrease levels of Cortisol - a hormone that controls stress. Kids and animals are a natural combination. Animals can teach the value of responsibility. For children with disabilities, this responsibility is invaluable. Animals give children the opportunity to connect, which is an important part of a child's normal development. Some of the children are angry, hurt, defiant, and have little to no self-esteem. Other children are developmentally delayed due to mental and/or physical disabilities. But whatever the case, working with animals makes significant improvements in their development. Why a Horse? For those that are familiar with the immense power of a horse, they understand the benefit they have to individuals. Developing relationships and caring for a horse naturally affects people in a very positive manner. Horses are large and powerful and this can create an opportunity for someone to overcome their fears and develop confidence. Horses can mirror what human body language is telling them. Someone working with a horse learns that a human must change themselves to get a horse to respond differently.The changes a person needs to make teaches a powerful lesson of self discipline and selfrespect.
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Horses are very much like humans. They are very social and would rather be with their peers. Horses have distinct personalities and attitudes. They can be stubborn and defiant. But they like to play and have fun too. A horse provides a huge opportunity for learning. The K2 Equestrian Center focuses on children with the following disabilities: Terminal Illness Autism Emotional Disabilities Mental Disablities Eating Disorders Substance Abuse Sensory Intercalation Disorder Victims of Domestic Violence Equine Assisted Therapy provides a unique experience with unconditional love. This gives the child an opportunity for physical and emotional growth. These majestic animals promote confidence and self-esteem, while motivating children to interact and grow stronger. When a child becomes empowered and self-confident their attitude is apparent with their outward demeanor. There is nothing more rewarding than to be a part of this developmental growth. The best part of Equine Therapy is that the child forgets how hard they are working because they are having such a great time. For more information on these amazing pets with purpose contact: K2 Equestrian Ranch at (208) 762.9891 or email k2ranch@aol.com.
northwest pet magazine | Pets with Purpose
www.northwestpetmagazine.com 25
w w w. p a m p u r re d p et . n et
920 N Spokane Street | Post Falls, ID 83854
FAMILY PET MEMORIAL Cremation Service & Cemetery
Providing Compassionate and Dignified Private Cremation & Burial Services for your Beloved Pet. • • • •
Available “On-Call” Specializing in Private Cremations Serving Our Community For Over 40 Years Recommended and Used by Our Local Veterinarians Greater Spokane 509.467.4248
26 northwest pet magazine
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Sweet Treats | northwest pet magazine
photo courtesy of joyofcaking.com
Gingerbread for everyone! The gingerbread man has been around for hundreds of years. Now, your dog can join the fun with his very own dog treat recipe. This version cuts out the sugar and intensifies the ginger flavor for a tasty treat your dog is sure to enjoy.
Gingerbread Dog Cookies
Pet Treat Icing
3 cups whole wheat flour 2 tbsp ground ginger 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground cloves 1/2 cup molasses 1/2 cup water 1/4 cup canola oil
1 - 6 oz. container of yogurt (plain or banana) 1 tbls. natural peanut butter
Preheat oven to 325° F In a large bowl, whisk flour, ginger, cinnamon and cloves until combined. In a small bowl, using a sturdy spoon, stir together the molasses, water and canola oil. Pour the molasses mixture into the flour and mix until thoroughly combined. Roll out dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut shapes. Lightly spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Place your cut outs on the baking sheet. Continue to roll and cut out shapes with the remaining dough. Bake for 20 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack. Storing - This recipe for dog biscuits will keep fresh for several weeks in the refrigerator. Keep in freezer for up to 6 months.
Mix in a food processor or mixer. Makes ½ cup of yogurt icing to frost about 30 dog treats. You can dollop on with a spoon, brush it on with a pastry brush or using a pastry bag (or plastic storage bag with the corner cut out) squeeze the yogurt out onto the dog treats. You could even dip them into the yogurt mixture. Refrigerate to harden icing! Dress Them Up! Use carob bits to form the eyes and buttons if you like. These are great fun for you and your dog. They’ll make great gifts for your doggie friends too!
www.northwestpetmagazine.com 27
L o o k ! I’m Famous...
Check out this month’s famous local friends! To submit your pet photos for consideration in the January issue, visit us online at www.NorthwestPetMagazine.com
"Diego
"Lexi"
"Felix" "Lillie" "Casper"
"Hemi"
"Newton" "Bob"
"Sklud"
"Sizzle"
"Kato" "Rango"
"Suki, Pippin & Tansy"
"River & Sonnet" "Jupiter"
"Dutch" 28 northwest pet magazine
"Baxter"
"Sydney"
"Jag"
$25.00 "Sinder & Sadie"
"Sugar"
Sydney is this month’s winner and will receive a grooming gift certificate from:
"Eleanor" "Milo & Tucker" "Rango" Northwest Pet Resort Sue Harpine - Groomer 208.292.4394
"Vincent"
Voted #1 Spokane’s Z-BEST 2009 & 2010
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Directory | northwest pet magazine Containment Systems
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Invisible Fence of Spokane 413 W Hastings Rd Spokane, WA (509) 466-1424 invisiblefenceofspokane.com
Bark’R Boutique-The Cat’s Meow 15701 E Sprague Ave, Suite E Spokane Valley, WA (509) 340-2410 barkerboutique.com
PetVet 510 S Sullivan Rd Spokane Valley, WA (509) 928-7387
Invisible Fence of Northern Idaho 610 W Hubbard, Suite 114 Coeur d’Alene, ID (208) 773-6710 northernidaho.invisiblefence.com
Bark & Snip LLC 626 W Garland Spokane, WA (509) 443-4746 barknsnip.com
Dr. Tracy Ridgeway 920 N Spokane St Post Falls, ID (208) 819-6472
Cat Boarding Spokane Cat Clinic 2704 W Northwest Blvd Spokane, WA (509) 326-2287 spokanecatclinic.com
Distributors Watson Company Distributing Retailers Call: (509) 624-5291
Dog Day Care/Boarding Alpha Dogs LLC 130 S Sherman Spokane, WA (509) 624-1166 alphadogsllc.com Camp K9 2179 W Seltice Way Post Falls, ID (208) 773-3203 campk9postfalls.com Coeur d’Alene Pet Resort 125 E Hazel Ave Coeur d’Alene, ID (208) 667-4606 cdapetresort.com Northwest Pet Resort 1717 Northwest Blvd Coeur d’Alene, ID (208) 292-4394 northwestpetresort.com Paradise Pet Resort 11420 E Jackson Spokane Valley, WA (509) 290-6024 paradisepetresort.org Ruff ‘n It Dog Day Camp W 212 South Ave Deer Park, WA (509) 276-3339 ruffnitdogdaycamp.com
End of Life Care All Pets Cremation Services 4195 3rd Ave. Post Falls, ID (509) 922-1285 or (208) 704-1426 allpetscremationservices.com Family Pet Memorial (509) 467-4248 or (208) 457-7111 familypetmemorial.com
Pet Supplies Northwest Seed & Pet, Inc. 2422 E Sprague Ave Spokane, WA (509) 534-0694 thegardenpet.com Northwest Seed & Pet, Inc. 7302 N Divison Spokane, WA (509) 484-7387 the gardenpet.com
Grrs ‘n’ Purrs Grooming W 113 Crawford Deer Park, WA (509) 276-2799
River City Animal Hospital 310 N Herborn Pl Post Falls, ID (208) 777-9178
Lil Bit O'Grooming Pet Salon 4422 N Wall St Spokane, WA (509) 290-6787 lilbitogrooming.biz
SouthCare Animal Medical Center 2915 E Palouse Hwy Spokane, WA 99223 (509) 448-4480 southcarevet.com
Sue Harpine Grooming Northwest Pet Resort 1717 Northwest Blvd Coeur d'Alene, ID (208) 292-4394
Veterinary Surgical Specialists, PS 21 E Mission Ave Spokane, WA 99202 (509) 324-0055 vssspokane.com
Health Services A-1 Animal Clinic 101 N Argonne Rd Ste F Spokane, WA (509) 927-7367 a-1animalcare.com Animal Pain Management 11901 N Division Spokane, WA 99218 (509) 468-0443 animalpainmanagement.com Deer Park Animal Medical Center 31207 N Short Rd Deer Park, WA 99006 (509) 276-6016 deerparkanimalvet.com Fairwood Animal Hospital 317 W Hastings Rd Spokane, WA 99218 (509) 467-0566 FIDO Chiro Animal Chiropratic 12310 N Division Spokane, WA (509) 466-1117 www.fidochiro.com
Wandermere Animal Hospital 12519 N SR395, Suite 1 Spokane, WA 99218 (509) 464-1414 wandermereanimalhospital.com
Mobile Health Services Pet Mobile Michelle Ward, DVM (888) 696-6258 Serving Pend Oreille & Bonner County
Pet Sitting The Pet Tech Pet Sitting in Post Falls 208-620-0175 the pettech.com
Pet Supplies Dogtown Company 518 S Thor Spokane, WA (509) 534.4880 dogtownco.com
Pampurred Pet Boutique 920 N Spokane St, #4 Post Falls, ID (208) 777-3190 pampurredpet.net Pet Vittles 919 N Argonne Spokane Valley, WA (509) 927-0675 petvittles.com Prairie Dog Pet Mercantile 2917 E Palouse Hwy Spokane, WA (509) 443-9663 prairiedogmercantile.com Urban Canine 1220 S Grand Blvd Spokane, WA (509) 744-9663 theurbancanine.com Urban Canine 9222 N Newport Hwy Spokane, WA (509) 465-9663 theurbancanine.com Yuppy Puppy 9423 N Newport HWY Spokane, WA (509) 467-8221 yuppypuppyspokane.com
Pet Training All Breed K9 Academy Training Dogs... Teaching People (208) 755-4090 allbreedk9academy.com
Duncan’s 1302 N Government Way Coeur d’Alene, ID (208) 667-0618
Canine Behavior Consulting Eric Hess CPDT~KA Certified Professional Dog Trainer 208-691-1720 ericsk9consulting.com
Lake City Spay & Neuter Clinic 902 Lincoln Way Coeur d’Alene, ID (208) 664-5629 lakecitypethospital.com
GoodDog 3115 Government Way, #3 Coeur d’Alene, ID (208) 664-4364 gooddog-us.com
I-Guard International PO BOX 148 Otis Orchards, WA (509) 893-3543 iguardinternational.com
Northwoods Veterinary Hospital 30425 N Meadow St Athol, ID (208) 683-2708
Nature’s Pet Market 12208 N Division St, Suite B Spokane, WA (509) 464-3400
Trails Inn Kennel - Dave Byer 2888 W Diagonal Rathdrum, ID (208) 687-7024
Kootenai Animal Hospital 1704 E Seltice Way Post Falls, ID (208) 773-6000
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