VOLUME 13 · ISSUE 7
Fostering a win-win for rescues, people and pets Cleaning the scene of an accident: Tips for pet odor and stain removal Aquarium starter kits to introduce fish to your home
JULY
2022
THE PET ISSUE Tail-wagging treats and tips
T1
We’re Here
with Specialized Care for Kids, Too You know us for pediatric care, but the medical home you’ve come to know and trust also provides life-changing specialty care for kids. Backed by more than 40 years of research, the experts at Boys Town National Research Hospital provide patient-centered care with the most advanced treatments close to you. Here, you’ll find the region’s leading pediatric specialists and clinicians specializing in: • Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
• Ear, Nose and Throat
• Neurology
• Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
• Gastroenterology
• Neurosurgery
• Craniofacial
• General and Thoracic Surgery
• Ophthalmology
• Critical Care
• Hearing and Balance
• Rheumatology
• Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics
• Infectious Disease
• Speech-Language Therapy
To find a Boys Town pediatric specialist near you, visit boystownhospital.org or call 531-355-1234.
2
July 2022
CONTENTS
VOLUME 13 ISSUE 7 JULY 2022 editor in chief KILEY CRUSE cruse@owh.com 402-444-1375
5 Bookshelf
12 Trail Etiquette
6 Pet Fostering
13 Pet Stains
8 Homemade Dog Treats
14 Pet Introductions
11 Starter Aquariums
CO U R T N E Y B R U M M E R - C L A R K cbclark@owh.com 402-444-3118
assistant editor MARJIE DUCEY marjie.ducey@owh.com 402-444-1034
contributors KO R I N E L S O N H E I D I H O F FM A N NEBR ASK A HUMANE SOCIET Y
designer E M I LY S H U L L AW
MORGAN RYE-CRAFT
6
The guinea pig palace in Morgan Rye-Craft’s basement.
consulting editor
cover photo H E I D I H O F FM A N custom publishing sales coordinator
custom publishing sales coordinator N I C K C AVA L L A R O nick.cavallaro@owh.com 402-444-1202
Momaha Magazine is a monthly publication of the Omaha World-Herald, 1314 Douglas St., Suite 600, Omaha, NE 68102. Momaha is a registered trademark, and all content is copyright 2022 by the Omaha WorldHerald. All rights reserved. The opinions and perspectives published herein are those of the authors and should not be construed as those of Momaha Magazine.
3
Every child, everywhere, deserves the very best. It’s why Children’s Hospital
& Medical Center combines the largest group of pediatric specialties in the region, the most advanced technology and the biggest hearts all in one
place. Together, in this safe and welcoming environment of excellence, we’re
shaping the future of pediatric medicine to deliver the very best for kids.
Visit ChildrensOmaha.org or call 1.800.833.3100 to find a physician near you.
CARE
4
July 2022
|
ADVO CACY
|
RESEARCH
|
E D U C AT I O N
BOOKSHELF THE BOOKWORM
A NEW POINT OF VIEW Books told through the eyes of animals
W
hy do we love animal stories? A well-written novel with written from an animal’s point of view presents whimsical insight. And animal protagonists are not just for picture books, these chapter books and adult books are worth your time as well.
ADULT BOOKS “A DOG’S PURPOSE” by W. Bruce Cameron
Heartwarming, insightful, and often laugh-out-loud funny, “A Dog’s Purpose” is not only the emotional and hilarious story of a dog’s many lives, but also a dog’s-eye commentary on human relationships and the unbreakable bonds between man and man’s best friend. This moving and beautifully crafted story teaches us that love never dies, that our true friends are always with us, and that every creature on earth is born with a purpose.
“THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN” by Garth Stein
Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: a philosopher with a nearly human soul (and an obsession with opposable thumbs), he has educated himself by watching television extensively, and by listening very closely to the words of his master, Denny Swift, an up-and-coming race car driver. Through Denny, Enzo has gained
in this truly “incredible” adventure. Instinct tells them that the way home lies to the west and together the three house pets face hunger, the natural elements, and wild forest animals as they make their way home to the family they love. The lengths to which these three animals will go for each other and for their owner make for a thrilling and thoroughly unforgettable tale. Ages 8-13
“ONE & ONLY IVAN” by Katherine Applegate
tremendous insight into the human condition, and he sees that life, like racing, isn’t simply about going fast. On the eve of his death, Enzo takes stock of his life, recalling all that he and his family have been through.
“WATERSHIP DOWN” by Richard Adams
“Watership Down” is a timeless classic. Set in the Hampshire Downs in southern England, this stirring tale of suspense, hot pursuit, and derring-do follows a band of rabbits in flight from the incursion of man and the destruction of their home. Led by a stouthearted pair of brothers, they travel through harrowing trials to a mysterious promised land and a more perfect society. It’s a story of rebellion, exile and survival.
CHAPTER BOOKS
Having spent 27 years behind the glass walls of his enclosure in a shopping mall, Ivan has grown accustomed to humans watching him. He hardly ever thinks about his life in the jungle. Instead, Ivan occupies himself with television, his friends Stella and Bob, and painting. But when he meets Ruby, a baby elephant taken from the wild, he is forced to see their home, and his art, through new eyes. Ages 9-13
“BUNNICULA”
by Deborah Howe Before it’s too late, Harold the dog and Chester the cat must find out the truth about the newest pet in the Monroe household — a suspiciouslooking bunny with unusual habits … and fangs! Ages 7-11
“INCREDIBLE JOURNEY”
PICTURE BOOKS
by Sheila Burnford
“I’M NOT MISSING”
An inquisitive Labrador retriever, friendly bull terrier and courageous Siamese cat set out through the Canadian wilderness to find their owner
Kashelle Gourley & Skylar Hogan Sick of the pressures of pet life — the costumes, the treat-withholding, and the dreaded cone of shame — one dog escapes to fulfill his true Lone Wolf destiny. But then he sees his owner
— um, ex-owner— with a new dog and feels unexpectedly jealous. All he wanted was a little space to poop in peace, not for his ex-owner to forget him entirely! Is it too late to go back, or is he stuck in the doghouse forever? Ages 4-7
“STRETCHY MCHANDSOME” by Judy Schachner
Stretchy McHandsome is not only good looking with his ginger fur, but he has personality that shines as well. Leaving the safety of the McHandsome clan, he stretches himself away from home and all around town. Out and about, he is spotted by a girl with a kindred spirit, who makes him realize the one thing missing from his life is the warm lap of a loving person. How this gadabout finds his true girl makes for a story that is a little bit wild, but a whole lot wonderful. Ages 2-5
“CAN I BE YOUR DOG?” by Troy Cummings
Arfy is a homeless mutt who lives in a box in an alley. Arfy writes to every person on Butternut Street about what a great pet he’d make. His letters to prospective owners share that he’s house broken, he has his own squeaky bone and he can learn to live with cats. But, no one wants him. Won’t anyone open their heart — and home — to a lonesome dog? Ages 3-6
Find these titles and many more by shopping locally at The Bookworm. Located at 90th and Center Streets, The Bookworm is an independent, family-owned bookstore with more than 6,000-square-feet of space. The Bookworm offers an excellent selection of books, an outstanding children’s section and friendly, knowledgeable staff who know the books they sell. Learn more at www.bookwormomaha.com.
2501 S. 90th 402-392-2877 bookwormomaha.com
Books for all ages and interests! Registration Recommended for Story Time. 5
LEFT: Violet, one of the guinea pigs cared for by Morgan Rye-Craft.
MORGAN RYE-CRAFT
BELOW: Harriet is one of the animals fostered by Hops + Co. Small Animal Rescue.
FOSTERING A WIN-WIN FOR RESCUES, PEOPLE AND PETS
MARJIE DUCEY
M
World-Herald Staff Writer
organ Dodge used to say that when she grew up, she wanted to have 10 dogs. Instead, she’s done the next-best thing. As soon as the 22-year-old was settled in a house, she put in her name as a foster parent for Muddy Paws
Second Chance Rescue. “I really enjoy it,” she said. “A lot of these animals come from bad situations. Getting them in your home and taking care of them ... the love they give back makes it all worth it.” She’s been a foster mom for Muddy Paws for about a year and a half. Morgan Rye-Craft does the same for Hops + Co. Small Animal Rescue. “I currently have a small herd of guinea pigs in
EAN CRAFT
Morgan Rye-Craft with Poppy, one of her foster animals. my basement,” she said. Rye-Craft said fostering gives the family a chance to care for and play with animals that she knows she wouldn’t adopt otherwise. Son QuinnMichael, 2, gets to see what goes in to caring for an animal — things like cleaning cages. Hops + Co. founder Eryn Swan says fosters are essential to animal rescue organizations. Few have a physical shelter to house their animals. Even animal shelters rely on fosters for the overflow of pets or animals that are too young, sick or not a good fit for shelter life. “Fostering is a win-win situation,” Swan said. “Fosters help a rescue to understand a pet’s personality and needs to find the best suited home, they provide a low-stress environment for the pet while they wait for their adoptive home and allow rescues and shelters to take on more animals. With millions of dogs and cats euthanized in American shelters each year, foster homes truly help save lives.”
Both Muddy Paws and Hops pay for food, accessories and medical attention. That’s huge for Dodge, who often cares for dogs with special needs that take longer to find a home. She also has had a lot of pregnant moms and their puppies. She estimates that, including litters of puppies, she’s cared for 50 to 60 animals during her time with Muddy Paws. The organization adopted out 607 pets last year, of which around 550 were in foster homes. Dodge also has three dogs and a cat of her own, so she said adding a few more isn’t a big deal. “It’s just another part of my day,” she said. She was nervous about signing up at first but has found a supportive community in Muddy Paws. Rye-Craft decided to help after founder Swan posted on social media that she needed help with some of the small animals
YOU’RE INVITED
Join us in celebrating 16Years of business with 16% off, surprises, refreshments and specials! 10 am – 5pm | July 16th | 84th and 1st Street | Downtown, Papillion | 402-991-4477 2022 WINNER Women’s Clothing /Boutique
6
July 2022
OCA Winner Women’s Clothing/Boutique
Stop by, take your time and make an afternoon out of it.There will be plenty to celebrate!
Best of Omaha 14Years in a Row
that are cared for by her organization. Rye-Craft said her large unfinished basement is perfect for an 8-foot guinea pig enclosure. She wasn’t attached to the guinea pigs like she was to the hamster she cared for before it found a home. She’s afraid to help with rabbits because she’s concerned that it would be much harder to let them go. “I have not foster failed with any of these little guys yet,” she said. Saying goodbye to the animals is the hardest part of the job. Rye-Craft said her son is too young to understand why an animal is at their home one day and gone the next. Dodge said she copes by asking adoptees to send photos and join the Muddy Paws adoption page on Facebook. She plans reunions for the puppies and volunteers to pet sit. The careful vetting of new owners also soothes her concerns. She knows they are going to a good home. “Don’t be afraid to jump right in,” she said. “It’s a lot of fun.”
marjie.ducey@owh.com, 402-444-1034, twitter.com/mduceyowh MARIA TERESA, EM-TEE-GEE PHOTOGRAPHY
HOMES FOR RESCUES Don’t overlook adopting or fostering as rescued pet; the need is great
MARJIE DUCEY
World-Herald Staff Writer
T
he No. 1 goal for rescue groups is finding the perfect forever home for animals in their care. But many times they need help making that happen. Here’s what’s entailed if you’re looking to adopt or foster a rescued pet.
‘FOLLOW YOUR GUT FEELING’ Michell Hoffman from the Greater Omaha Cage Bird Society suggests asking friends and family members for recommendations on rescue groups they’ve used. Even better is a good word from your vet. She says smaller groups sometimes can be more organized and passionate about their cause and have adoption and surrender guidelines. “I am a big believer in following your gut feeling. If a group is not answering or even avoiding questions about themselves or a pet you are interested in, that is usually a red flag,” she says. “If a group is genuine and proud of their cause, you can see and feel their passion.”
RULES FOR ADOPTIONS
Morgan Dodge with one of her mama dogs, Gemma, at a pregnancy photo session.
Every rescue is a little different. Muddy Paws Second Chance Rescue keeps a veterinary history on each pet it rescues. The organization also wants to make sure any pet it places will live in a safe environment, so a home visit is required. That might even mean checking the
bottom of a fence for holes if it’s a small dog or making sure the fence is tall enough to contain a larger animal. The group also makes sure that adoptees abide by the laws of their community. Some cities have breed bans in place that prohibit owning certain animal breeds within city limits. “Council Bluffs doesn’t take any pit bulls,” says Terri Larson, president and founder of Muddy Paws. “We also make sure wherever the adopter is living, they meet the requirement of that particular apartment or complex or community.”
HEALTHY ANIMALS Little White Dog Rescue, like many other rescue groups, will make sure you take home a healthy pet. Each of their dogs is neutered or spayed, has dental work done and any medical issues addressed before it is put up for adoption. Muddy Paws provides free behavioral training for the life of the pet. If there are problems, the group will send out a certified trainer free of charge. Both have a 30-day trial period. If the adoption doesn’t work, the animal can be returned and the adoption fee will be refunded. Cindy Goodin, president of Little White Dog Rescue, thinks that makes its adoption fees a great bargain. Both also ask that if things don’t work out later, that the pet be returned to the rescue.
NOT JUST FROM NEBRASKA Little White Dog Rescue saves a lot of dogs from puppy mills in Missouri. But pets in need of a home can come from anywhere. Overcrowded places in the south will often send pets north to find an owner. Muddy Paws’ Larson says lots of
pregnant moms are euthanized in Texas so those rescues will reach out to groups in the Midwest. Pilots for Paws is an excellent group that helps needy animals without requiring reimbursement, she says. If the need is urgent, someone from her organization might meet someone from a rescue in Texas halfway.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES It takes a lot of manpower to run a rescue group, says Muddy Paws’ Larson. The organization helps all kinds of animals get adopted: dogs, cats, birds, ferrets, rabbits — you name it. “We need volunteers to foster, process applications, get vetting done, record adoptions, help with meet and greets and help with training,” Larson says. “We are always in desperate need.”
BE A FOSTER Many rescue organizations pay for medical needs, food and supplies for its foster pets. “We just need you to supply a home and patience,” Goodin says. Plus, take the dogs to vet visits and events. Any animals already in the home must be up-to-date on their shots and heartworm prevention and be spayed. Stays can vary, from a few days to several months. Foster parents will get pet-sitting help if they need to go out of town. You don’t have to be retired or home all day. “Anybody can foster,” Goodin says. “It’s just like having your own dog.” Many times, foster parents fall in love and keep a dog, especially the first time they foster. That’s OK, Goodin says. It’s all about finding that forever home.
marjie.ducey@owh.com, 402-444-1034, twitter.com/mduceyowh
AUTO HAIL REPAIR WINDSHIELD REPAIR WINDOW TINTING
When life happens, we are here to help. Lowest Prices. Same Day Service. Expert Staff.
Get A Quote
402.238.1348 www.Omaha Glass Pro.com 7
STYLING + PHOTOGRAPHY
O Heidi Hoffman
DID SOMEONE SAY
ur fur babies are family, and like any good pet parent, you should know what’s in the food you are giving them. The ingredients for these poochapproved treats most likely are in your pantry.
TREAT? DOGGIE DELIGHTS • • • • •
1 cup whole wheat f lour 1 cup oats ½ cup f lax seed ½ cup beef broth ¼ cup dog-safe peanut butter
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. In a medium bowl, mix flour, oats and flax seed. Stir in beef broth and peanut butter to form a thick dough. Add more broth, if necessary.
These pantry-ingredient treats are howlin’ good for hounds
3. Form dough into a large ball. Next, on a flat floured surface, roll out dough to about ¼ inch thick. 4. Using a cookie cutter, cut out pieces until you’ve use all the dough. 5. Place cutout pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden. 6. Let cool completely before serving. Store in refrigerator for about one week. Source: kitchenconfidante.com
8
July 2022
Peanut Butter & Banana Biscuits
PEANUT BUTTER & BANANA BISCUITS FROZEN APPLE DOG TREATS • 2 apples • 1 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt • Water
• 1 cup whole wheat f lour • ¾ cup dog-safe creamy peanut butter • 1 banana
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well to form a thick dough.
1. Slice two apples into small sections, removing seeds and core.
3. Form the dough into a large ball. On a flat, floured surface, roll out dough to about ¼-inch thick.
2. In a blender, mix the apple slices and yogurt. Add water, if necessary; the consistency should be liquid-y.
4. Using a cookie cutter, cut out pieces until you’ve used all the dough.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray. Place in freezer until frozen solid.
5. Place pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until firm.
4. Serve outdoors to avoid messes as the treats thaw. Source: irresistablepets.net
6. Let cool completely before serving. Store in refrigerator for up to one week. Source: dogvills.com
DOG-SAFE PEANUT BUTTER Dog-safe peanut butter shouldn’t contain
more than two ingredients: peanuts and salt.
Avoid peanut butters that include
xylitol, hydrogenated vegetable oils, or added sugars or salt. Xylitol, sometimes called
birch sugar, is an especially dangerous ingredient. It’s a sugar substitute used in many “sugar-free” chewing gums and candies. Never buy sugarfree peanut butter as xylitol is highly toxic to dogs.
Dogs who ingest foods that contain xylitol can suffer from: hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure and death. Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog has eaten something with xylitol in it, as it can be absorbed quite rapidly.
DIY PEANUT BUTTER Want to make your own homemade pea-
nut butter? It’s easier than you think. All you need is peanuts and a food processor.
Simply add peanuts (preferably unsalted)
to a food processor and process for up to 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth.
Making your own peanut butter is a great
option for a healthy treat because you know exactly what’s in it.
9
ONCE - A WEEK SWIM LESSONS
MORNING,AFTERNOON, EVENING & SAT. MORNINGTIME SLOTS AVAILABLE
NOW REGISTERING FOR SUMMER CAMP
sum sale mer
B I B L E S ,
B O O K S ,
U P
T O
M U S I C
4 0 %
&
G I F T S
O F F
W W W . D I V I N E T R U T H C H R I S T I A N . C O M
6905 S. 84th Street La Vista, NE 68128 402-592-4866
402-932-2030 LittleWavesFamilySwimSchool.com 17602 Wright St, Omaha, 68130 10
July 2022
THINK TANKS An aquarium starter kit is a great way to introduce fish into your home SUZANNAH KOLBECK | BestReviews
F
ew things are more relaxing than listening to the gentle hum of a fish tank while sleek, brightly colored fish move through plants and skim across gravel. For those who’d like to take advantage of this meditative activity, a 5-gallon fish tank is a great place to start. This size tank won’t take up much space in your home but still allows you to bring all of the benefits of fish-keeping into your life. Here are five considerations for choosing a small aquarium for your home:
1 IfAccessories you are invest-
ing in your first fish tank, a starter kit can be very helpful. These can include most of the accessories you’ll need, like a pump, water filter and heater. You may wish to add more features to your fish tank, like plants, gravel, decorations, a thermometer or a light. Some lights are designed to enhance the colors of fish; blue LED lights are the best for this. LED lights also use less energy and don’t heat up the tank.
Material 3 Glass tanks are classic, du-
rable and easy-to-clean, but they can be heavy, especially when filled (a gallon of water weighs about 8 pounds). Plastic is lighter, but a fish tank made of that can get scratched or become cloudy over time.
and size 4 Shape Five-gallon fish tanks
are available in a variety of shapes, including vertical-cylinder, rectangle or crescent. The size of your tank refers to its surface footprint. Vertically oriented tanks have a smaller footprint, while rectangle or crescent shapes will need a bigger display surface.
5 Lid A lid is important — es-
pecially if you have other curious pets. Fish tank lids are not airtight, but they will keep fish in and everything else out.
What kind of fish? How many? Beginning aquarists will have the most success with freshwater fish. (FYI: Saltwater aquariums should hold at least 20 gallons.) As a general rule, think 1 inch of fish for each gallon of water. This holds true for fish that won’t exceed 2 inches long, and it is a good guideline when shopping for fish. Get a larger tank for fish longer than 2 inches.
2 Ease of
cleaning
Because clean tanks mean healthy fish, look for fish tanks and accessories that are easy to clean. Complicated filters and heating systems can trap bacteria, causing illness.
BESTREVIEWS AND AMAZON.COM PHOTOS
5-GALLON AQUARIUMS TO TRY Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit This vertical glass tank is a stylish option for smaller surface areas. The unit is easy to assemble. The pump and filter are designed to tuck away in the back, and the LED light is bright — perfect for tropical fish. Note that cleaning the filter can be challenging. $111 at Amazon and Chewy.com
GloFish Aquarium Kit Fish Tank This seamless, crescent-shaped plastic tank allows for easy viewing at any angle. This kit includes a filtration system and lid with bright blue LED lights designed to bring out the colors of GloFish. Keep in mind that some users felt the acrylic of the tank and plastic on the lid were flimsy. $45 at Amazon
Fluval Spec Aquarium Kit This is an attractive, compact home for your fish with LED lighting and efficient filtration system. This glass aquarium has the traditional rectangular shape, but a slimmer footprint. It is best for smaller fish species like guppies and betta fish. Note that a heater is not included. $120 at Amazon and Chewy.com
Suzannah Kolbeck is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
11
TAKE NOTE OF TRAIL ETIQUETTE whether you are walking a dog or a riding a bike
JOE SHEARER PHOTOS, COUNCIL BLUFFS DAILY NONPAREIL
From left, Nanny Callie Copperstone and siblings Sammi, 9, and Tateton Till, 7, walk their dogs Hazel and Nellie past a horse pasture along the Wabash Trace Nature Trail. KORI NELSON
Midlands Humane Society
N
ebraska and Iowa are so fortunate to have hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails. Many, like the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, are rail-trails that meander through the beautiful countryside and are the perfect getaway for some peace and quiet. Have you ever ridden your bicycle on it or walked under its beautifully treed canopy? Maybe you’ve taken your dog for a nice jaunt on it so he can see and smell things not likely found along the sidewalks in your own neighborhood.
R F t a e kids
We certainly know there are do’s and don’ts when walking or riding a bicycle on a trail or street, and if you add a dog in the mix — there are even more rules we must follow. The folks at traillink.com have some terrific tips and suggestions to follow if you take Fido for an outing. 1. Plan ahead: While rail-trails are welcoming to dogs, consider whether your dog is right for a rail-trail. Is your pup comfortable around cyclists, runners, walkers and other dogs? Trails can be busy places, so carefully consider which trail to visit and when to go and think how your pet will react in this type of environment.
ery v e EE
12
July 2022
4. Practice trail etiquette: Even on quiet trails it’s possible to find bicyclists and runners who come upon you faster than you realize. Stay to the right side of the trail, be sure your dog is on a leash and be mindful that your dog does not stray into the path of other trail users. A quick moving bicycle coming up from behind can startle a human, let alone an unsuspecting dog. If you are coming up behind someone (no matter if you are walking, running or bicycling) you should announce your presence vocally by saying “On your left,” or by ringing a bell before you pass by. As much as you love your pet, others may not feel the same. Not everyone is a dog person, and your adorable Goldendoodle might be frightening to some. Respect other people’s space and make sure Fido stays near you throughout the walk. Also, important to note is that not everyone wants their dog to be pet by strangers, so make sure you are asking, and instructing your children, to request permission prior to petting any dog on leash. Following a few simple rules will help keep people, pets and the environment safe while out enjoying the beauty all around us!
! y a d sun
*with the purchase of any adult meal, 12 and under
west omaha 17520 wright St.
2. Bring everything you need: Be sure to pack water, snacks, bags for cleaning up after your dog, and, of course, a leash. Trailheads may have water fountains, but unless you are familiar with the route, do not assume you will be able to get water whenever needed. 3. Be mindful of limitations: When planning an outing, keep in mind your limitations as well as that of your dog. If your pet is not used to long walks, don’t use this opportunity to introduce one. Instead, make the first outing a short jaunt and build up over time, keeping in mind the age, health and fitness level of your dog.
Hazel, a Goldendoodle owned by Callie Copperstone, left, and Nellie, a British Labrador owned by Tateton and Sammi Till, sniff around during their walk on the Wabash Trace Nature Trail.
papillion 248 olson drive
Order Online
SPINPIZZA.COM
NEBRASKA HUMANE SOCIETY
A
ccidents happen. Unfortunately, pets are drawn to eliminate in areas where they have done so before. If your pet has had an accident in the house, it’s important to clean the area appropriately to stop the pet from returning there.
HOW TO CLEAN SOILED AREAS
If the item is machine washable like bedding, wash
Cleaning the scene of an
ACCIDENT
as usual. You may want to add baking soda to the laundry detergent. Let the item air dry. If you can still see or smell the urine, rewash using an enzymatic cleaner. Follow the directions on the cleaner. If the accident occurred on carpet or upholstery, soak up as much of the urine as possible with paper towels. The more you soak up, the easier it will be to clean the area. Rinse the area with clear cool water. Remove as much of the water as possible by blotting or using a wet vac. If you have previously used any cleaners on the area, the enzymatic cleaners will break down the old cleaners but not the urine. It’s important to rinse as much of the old cleaner out of the carpet as possible. A wet vac may work well to remove the old cleaners. Don’t use any chemicals with the wet vac. They work better with plain water. Next, apply a high quality enzymatic pet odor cleaner. Follow the directions on the label. If the urine has soaked to the padding, you will need to replace that part of the carpet and padding. If wood has been discolored, you should remove and replace the varnish or paint. Some washable wallpapers and enamel paints may respond well to the enzymatic cleaners but be sure to test a hidden area first for staining. To find all soiled areas, use your eyes and nose. A black light can also be helpful in locating urine stains. Use a piece of chalk to draw around the fluoresced areas.
WHAT NOT TO DO
Do NOT use ammonia, as this may encourage
ADOBE STOCK
your pet to eliminate in that spot to cover the smell. Do NOT use a steam cleaner for carpet or upholstery. The heat will permanently set the stain and odor by binding the protein to the carpet fibers.
Stop by today!
FRESH GELATO CONE, CUP OR PINT
7474 Towne Center Pkwy - Shadow Lake | 402-933-7826 @CHOCOLATERIE.STAM.PAPILLION
13
PETS | ADVICE
CAT MEETS DOG
5 tips for introducing pets to each other in your household ADOBE STOCK AND AMAZON.COM PHOTOS
ter ly En tainme mi nt Fa
SPEND AN HOUR OR THE DAY, FAMILY FUN FOR EVERYONE 14
July 2022
G o-K arts, Miniat ure G olf, L aze r Tag , Bat t ing Cage s, Wate r Wars, Spaceball, Jumpsho t, Arcade Game s
Open Daily April 1st – Labor Day Check Website or Call For Off-Season Hours
402.592.5671 • papiofunpark.com
210 East Lincoln St. Papillion, NE 68046 (1 Mile North of 84th & Hwy 370 Just East of 84th & Lincoln St. in Papillion)
1 Carefully consider your
dog’s personality and breed
There are certain breeds, such as sight hounds, like the Ibizan hound, which were originally bred to hunt rabbits. They are most susceptible to trouble with cats because their hunting instincts are triggered by their sense of sight. When small animals move quickly sight hounds react immediately. Make sure your dog does not have a lot of prey drive before you bring a cat into the picture.
2 Keep the cat and dog separated for the first few days together
It’s best to get your new cat acclimated to their new home by having them live in a room with the door closed. Make sure you provide them with a litter box, water and food so the cat does not need to leave the room.
3 Your dog will know
there’s a new scent in the house
Let the dog sniff near the door of the room with the cat so he gets used to the smell. You can also let your cat sniff one of your dog’s toys to increase familiarity, as well.
4 After a few days, let your
dog in the room with the cat
When doing so, leave the door open, and make sure that it is after your pup has exercised as he will be calmer. If the dog doesn’t seem to behave around the cat, resort to some basic training commands in the presence of the cat. Giving your dog a food reward for appropriate behavior in the presence of the cat will provide an incentive for him to continue acting appropriately.
5 Always make sure the
cat has a way to retreat from the dog
Having a safe space the dog can’t reach, but the cat can easily get to, such as a table is important for precautionary reasons. Until the cat and dog are comfortable with each other, supervise their interactions and continue to provide safe spots for the cat to escape.
EXERCISE YOUR HEART IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE
JOIN THE YMCA! WHERE THERE’S FAMILY FUN FOR ALL.
OPEN SWIM TIMES • FREE CHILDWATCH • SHOOT HOOPS IN OUR GYMS SUMMER DAY CAMP • YOUTH SPORTS • SWIM LESSONS AND MORE!
YMCA OF GREATER OMAHA • metroymca.org 15
@
2022-23 Mainstage Productions RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN'S
The
Stink Stinkyy Cheese Man &
Popularity
COACH COACH
Rose Members Receive: ★ 24 FREE tickets (four to each member show) ★ Discounts on premium event shows ★ Opportunities for member-only events ★ Early booking opportunities to Premium Event Shows R RODGERS ODGERS & H HAMMERSTEIN'S AMMERSTEIN'S
★ Sneak peek & early registration for summer camp
Discover the magic within... JOIN TODAY!
2022-23 Memberships A Available vailable Now at
rrosetheater.org osetheater.org
16
July 2022