Paws August 2016

PAWS mopolitan

There’s a New Dog in Town

Where do Pets Come From?

And Adam said, “Lord, when I was in the garden, you walked with me every day. Now I do not see you anymore. I am lonesome here and it is difficult for me to remember how much you love me.”

his tail. And Adam said, “But Lord, I have already named all the animals in the Kingdom and all the good names are taken and I cannot think of a name for this new animal.”

And God said, “No problem! I will create a companion for you that will be with you forever and who will be a reflection of my love for you, so that you will know I love you, even when you cannot see me. Regardless of how selfish and childish and unlovable you may be, this new companion will accept you as you are and will love you as I do, in spite of yourself.”

And God said, “No problem!

Because I have created this new animal to be a reflection of my love for you, his name will be a reflection of my own name, and you will call him DOG.”

And God created a new animal to be a companion for Adam. And it was a good animal. And God was pleased.

And the new animal was pleased to be with Adam and he wagged

And Dog lived with Adam and was a companion to him and loved him.

And Adam was comforted. And God was pleased. And Dog was content and wagged his tail.

After a while, it came to pass that Adam’s guardian angel came to the Lord and said, “Lord, Adam has become filled with pride. He struts and preens like a peacock and he believes he is worthy of adoration.

Dog has indeed taught him that he is loved, but no one has taught him humility.”

And the Lord said, “No problem!

I will create for him a companion who will be with him forever and who will see him as he is. The companion will remind him of his limitations, so he will know that he is not worthy of adoration.”

And God created CAT to be a companion to Adam. And Cat would not obey Adam.

And when Adam gazed into Cat’s eyes, he was reminded that he was not the supreme being. And Adam learned humility.

And God was pleased. And Adam was greatly improved.

And Cat did not care one way or the other.

I Found Snoopy His Dream Home.

I Can Find Yours!

Call Me.

Phoebe Hoaster

Associate Broker/Co-Owner Residential Home Marketing Specialist 1st Home - 2nd Home - Investment

Cell: 912-270-5730

Home: 912-634-9880 / Office: 912-634-9995 / PhoebeHoaster@gmail.com

600 Sea Island Road, Suite 28 / Saint Simons Island, GA 31522

PAWSMOPOLITAN 3

Publisher’s Letter Just the other day, former Braves legends Greg Olson and John Smoltz took to the main stage of Turner Field to kick off the Braves Alumni weekend. They recreated the famous moment in time when Atlanta secured a NLCS birth as Olson leapt into Smoltz’s arms. I get chills thinking about that time in my life, living back in Atlanta.

One could say that I have a special place in my heart for the ‘91 “Worst to First” team. Yes, I was a fan - even when they were at their worst.

That was around the same time that my family was visiting the Golden Isles on a regular basis. We had toyed with the idea of moving to Saint Simons Island. I remember my first visit. There were these most majestic oak trees, each one filled with rich history. I remember thinking, if the oaks could talk, imagine the stories they would tell. I had never seen such beauty. A short while later, it was finally decided that we were going to leave the city to live by the ocean - away from the traffic! I was beyond elated. Later, ironically, I think the traffic followed us.

In our several weeks to come, we had plans to explore the island. For being such a small island, there sure were several hidden streets. I can remember one day

we set out to tour the different neighborhoods. We knew that we wanted to find the perfect house for us to live in, but we didn’t know the island well enough to make an immediate decision. It was getting late, close to 9 pm. There was a little by of light left in the sky, but it was diminishing quickly. We saw someone riding a bike; and we stopped to speak to him for a few minutes.

Maybe he would have some incite into the area we were exploring. Come to find out, he happened to be the son of the principle of my Alma Mater, Glynn Academy.

He was full of great knowledge and he spoke highly of the area. He helped to reassure us that moving to Saint Simons Island was a good decision.

While we were chatting, we heard a faint squeal off in the distance. It sounded as if there was a baby kitten somewhere nearby. It was getting dark fast, so the search was on to find that little chatter box. After about five minutes of walking around the area, we came up to a pile of brush. Here was the source of the squeals. Nestled deep inside this bunch of briars and what looked like poison oak, was a little tortoiseshell kitten. She couldn’t have been more than six weeks old. I doubt that she has ever had any interaction with humans because she had no objection to introducing

us to her claws. One could tell that she had been there for quite some time. Her coat was a bit frazzled and she was covered in fleas. Instantly, I had that feeling that our family was about to grow by one. I would like to think that we tucked her into a beach towel only to create a security blanket; but ultimately, we were protecting ourselves from the death grip she so openly displayed.

As we went to get in the car, we heard a faint meow.

Oh my, there was another kitten hidden somewhere. He was quite the opposite of the female kitten. We called out to him softly and behind a few leaves, out popped this beautiful tabby with amazingly large paws. Although he didn’t speak much, he purred when we picked him up. The purring sealed the deal. Our family was about to grow, now by two.

This was the start of what seemed to be a long line of new four-legged rescued family members to come; each of them, guaranteed to make our days a little bit brighter. And we can’t wait to tell you about them in the issues to come.

For those of you who love your pets, rescued or not, we hope that you will embrace this publication and share with us your fun, heartwarming stories. We would love to hear from you. Even though our pets cannot speak like us humans, they sure know how to speak volumes with their own unique personalities.

You can email your stories with pictures to pawsmag@gmail.com.

Stephanie

Simon and Sugar became our first “official” rescue kittens. Oh how we had a time bringing them home. You can only imagine how traumatized they were being in the presence of humans. And now they would have to endure a bath? Yeah, no one ever told us what it would be like to give a cat a bath. I’m just going to say it now don’t ever do it! And if you have to, have gloves. THICK gloves....and band aid’s in case the gloves aren’t thick enough.

Golden Isles Spay / Neuter / Adopt Title Services, Inc. Rescue / Foster

Since Island Dog opened in 2010, we have seen thousands of

Saint Simons Island visitors and their pups come through our doors with questions on how best to enjoy the island together.

We thought it would be helpful to give the Dog Guide to Saint Simons Island to help answer frequently asked questions and to share the dog friendly spots for you and your tail-wagging friends. Here are just a few starters for having fun with your fur baby(ies) on St. Simons Island.

Are dogs allowed on Saint Simons Island Beach?

Dogs are prohibited on the beach from the Saturday before Memorial Day through Labor Day, between 9 am – 6 pm, with the exception of Wyley and Floyd public beach access streets.

After Labor Day, dogs are allowed on the beach at any time of the day until Memorial Day. Dogs must be within close proximity and under the immediate control of the owner/handler. If the handler is unable to control pet via voice-command, a 10’ leash is required. Pets are not allowed on the pier. And while you are out enjoying the island, please make sure your dog leaves nothing more than paw prints behind...

Saint Simons Island Dog Parks Frederica Park – 2201 Lawrence Rd. SSI, GA Frederica Park has a separate area for both large and small dogs. The park is close to a children’s playground.

Epworth Park – 108 Lady Huntington Dr. SSI, GA We Paws-itively think you will have a great time with your best friend on Saint Simons Island. Be sure to stop by Island Dog for a free treat. Bon A-pet-treat!

Publisher

Stephanie Maeger

Contributing Writers Jeff Lane Charlie Bland Wes Blount, DVM Lea McCarthy Emma Snow Gina Spadafori

Contributing Photographers Beverly Kennedy Lea McCarthy Amelia Pound Lindsay Sparmann

Cover Photo

Lindsay Sparmann

Rescue Liaison Kimberly Williams

About the Cover

Georgia is a 3 year old Golden Doodle that lives on Saint Simons Island with her mommy, Hope Kinsman. When she’s not at her mommy’s shop, you can find her out by the pool with her best friend Jax. They enjoy playing fetch, diving for pogo balls, and lounging in the sun.

To Advertise in Pawsmopolitan Please call (386) 679-8415 or email us at pawsmag@gmail.com Did you rescue your pet? We want to know about it! Email photos and rescue stories to Pawsmag@gmail.com. pawsmopolitan is published bi-monthy. reproduction of any photographs, artwork, or copy prepared by pawsmopolitan is strictly prohibited without prior written permission of the publisher. all advertised properties are subject to prior sale or withdrawal without notice. the advertisers and publisher are not responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, or typographical errors. all electronic files submitted to pawsmopolitan become property of the magazine. ©2016 pawsmopolitan. all rights reserved.

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Bowl of Pawtents Bark About Town Pippy

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Dealing with Heat Stress A Dog’s Eye View

22 Pool Safety 24

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Luke

Safe Hollow Animal Sanctuary Pick Me!

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Area Shelters and Rescue Organizations

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The

Bark About Town...

AUGUST 5th - Coastal Animal Rescue Society / No Kill Glynn County Adoption and Donation drive 5 pm to 8 pm. First Friday, Downtown Brunswick.

20th - Glynn County Animal Control Mobile Pet Adoption and Donation drive 10 am to 2 pm, Pet Supplies Plus.

20th - Low Cost PetVet Vaccine Clinic 1 pm to 2:30 pm, Tractor Supply Company in Brunswick.

6th - Castaways Pet Rescue / Humane 20th - No Kill Glynn County Adoption and Animal Rescue Team (HART) Adoption and Donation drive 11 am to 3 pm, Pet Supplies Donation drive 11 am to 4 pm, PetSmart in Plus in Brunswick.

Brunswick.

27th - Castaways Pet Rescue / Humane 6th - Low Cost PetVet Vaccine Clinic 1 Animal Rescue Team (HART) Adoption and pm to 2:30 pm, Tractor Supply Company in Donation drive 11 am to 4 pm, PetSmart in Brunswick.

Brunswick.

6th - No Kill Glynn County Adoption and Donation drive 11 am to 3 pm, Pet Supplies Plus in Brunswick.

8th - Safehollow Bangin Tini Party 4 pm to 7 pm in the bar area, Bonefish Grill on St. Simons Island. Donations welcome and Raffle for Dinner Excursion.

10th - Castaways Pet Rescue / Humane Animal Rescue Team (HART) Adoption and Donation drive 11 am to 4 pm, PetSmart in Brunswick.

10th - No Kill Glynn County Adoption and Donation drive 11 am to 3 pm, Pet Supplies Plus in Brunswick.

10th - Southeast Georgia Vet Clinic Mobile Unit Vaccinations, etc. 8:30 am to 1 pm, Spay / Neuter by appointment. Bed, Bath, & Beyond Shopping Center in Brunswick.

17th -Castaways Pet Rescue / Humane Animal Rescue Team (HART) Adoption and Donation drive 11 am to 4 pm, PetSmart in Brunswick.

27th - Cause for Paws Adoption and Donation drive 10 am to 4 pm, Historic Old 17th - Low Cost PetVet Vaccine Clinic Town Arts & Crafts Festival in Brunswick.

1 pm to 2:30 pm, Tractor Supply Company 6th - Southeast Georgia Vet Clinic Mobile in Brunswick.

27th - No Kill Glynn County Adoption Unit Vaccinations, etc. 8:30 am to 1 pm, and Donation drive 11 am to 3 pm, Pet Spay / Neuter by appointment. Satilla 17th - No Kill Glynn County Adoption and Supplies Plus in Brunswick.

Grocery Shopping Center in Brantley Co. Donation drive 11 am to 3 pm, Pet Supplies Plus in Brunswick.

SEPTEMBER 11th - River City Community Animal 2nd - Coastal Animal Rescue Society / No Hospital Low Cost Mobile Unit By Kill Glynn County Adoption and Donation 24th - Glynn County Animal Control appointment only, 904.733.8123, Bed, Bath, drive 5 pm to 8 pm. First Friday, Downtown Mobile Pet Adoption and Donation drive10 & Beyond Shopping Center in Brunswick. am to 2 pm, Pet Supplies Plus.

Brunswick.

13th - Coastal Animal Rescue Society Adoption and Donation drive 9 am to 1 pm, Sea Island Market on St. Simons Island.

13th - No Kill Glynn County Adoption and Donation drive 11 am to 3 pm, Pet Supplies Plus in Brunswick.

13th - Southeast Georgia Vet Clinic Mobile Unit Vaccinations, etc. 8:30 am to 1 pm, Spay / Neuter by appointment. Bed, Bath, & Beyond Shopping Center in Brunswick.

20th - Castaways Pet Rescue / Humane Animal Rescue Team (HART) Adoption and Donation drive 11 am to 4 pm, PetSmart in Brunswick.

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3rd - Castaways Pet Rescue / Humane Animal Rescue Team (HART) Adoption and Donation drive 11 am to 4 pm, PetSmart in Brunswick.

24th - Castaways Pet Rescue / Humane Animal Rescue Team (HART) Adoption and Donation drive 11 am to 4 pm, PetSmart in Brunswick.

3rd - Low Cost PetVet Vaccine Clinic 1 pm to 2:30 pm, Tractor Supply Company in Brunswick.

24th - Cause for Paws / Grateful Golden Rescue of the Low Country Adoption and Donation drive10 am to 4 pm, Historic Old Town Arts & Crafts Festival in Brunswick.

3rd - No Kill Glynn County Adoption and Donation drive 11 am to 3 pm, Pet Supplies Plus in Brunswick.

3rd - Southeast Georgia Vet Clinic Mobile Unit Vaccinations, etc. 8:30 am to 1 pm, Spay / Neuter by appointment. Satilla Grocery Shopping Center in Brantley Co.

24th - No Kill Glynn County Adoption and Donation drive 11 am to 3 pm, Pet Supplies Plus in Brunswick.

27th - Coastal Animal Rescue Society Adoption and Donation Drive 9 am to 1 pm, Sea Island Market on St. Simons Island.

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Pippy

By Stephanie Maeger

“Here,” they said. “Here’s Pippy.” He’s maybe a year

old Beagle and Hound mix, cute as a button, brown and black, with a white coat. A little skittish. He had already seen to much. He had experienced so much pain and loss of his other furry companions.

Patiently, we brought a towel, a scent of home with us.

“Here you go buddy.”, “Come sit with us for a while.” He did the normal sniff for approval routine that seems to be a common theme with all of our rescues.

If we just get a nudge of approval and a little kiss on the hand, we know that we can make an easy transition. If we see teeth, then, that’s going to take some more time to figure out.

Now Pippy had no idea what he was about to embrace.

Little did he know, he was about to join what initially looked like a quaint little family, until he came home. Not only did he gain us, but he also came home to Buffy, the eldest, Snickers, the meanest, Sugar, the talker, Riley, the sweetest, Maddie, the drinker, Tobey, the tabby, Moo Moo, because he had spots like a cow, Harley aka Mama Kitty, Pretty Girl, she knew that she was that beautiful, and Orange, because I always wanted an orange cat that I could name Orange.

Pippy officially made himself #11 in our fur-baby family.

Maddie and Riley both greeted him with kisses at the door. Buffy was our oldest. We grew up together. You could call her my sister. Although she couldn’t really move around, she sat back and observed from afar. She had already been through this routine ten times before.

Orange and Mama Kitty welcomed him with nose nudges. No dog ever fazed them. The rest, well, they were all cats. And you can only imagine that each one of them had some dismal look on their faces. Saying, “Really, another one, again?”

I would like to think that it only took Pippy a couple of days to acclimate himself with his surroundings and newfound friends. Oh, did he acclimate himself… He did so much, that he chewed everything that came into sight - food, toys, clothes, blankets, dog bedding, pillows, and wood. Wood was his favorite. Let’s not forget drywall perfected placed inside of a freshly painted wall. Aside from that, he was a sweet, loving dog. We fostered him for a few months until he found a forever home. He may have only been with us for a short period of time, but he left a paw print on in our hearts and a dent in our wallets. And when he left, he took a piece of our home with him too, literally.

A Puppy’s Prayer Now I lay me down to sleep, The king size bed is soft and deep.

I sleep right in the center groove My human mom can hardly move.

I’ve trapped her legs, She’s tucked in tight, And here is where I pass the night.

No one disturbs me or dares intrude, Til morning comes and “I want food!”

I sneak up slowly to begin, My nibbles on my human’s chin.

She wakes up quickly, and looks at me Then asks the question, “What’s wrong puppy”?

The morning is here, And it’s time to play I always seem to get my way.

So thank you lord for giving me This human mom that I see.

The one who hugs and hold me tight And shares her bed with me at night!

Amen 16 Pawsmopolitan

The onset of the hot weather months brings the

dangers of overheating for our canine companions.

Heat stress is something that we see every year in the Golden Isles and southeast Georgia. It ranges in severity from mild stress and subtle clinical signs to life-threatening situations that require immediate emergency care. The notion that our pets are resistant to the dangers of the hot summer weather and humidity is just not true. In fact, high temperatures can affect our canine companions even more than us in many situations.

Dealing with Heat Stress

By Wes Blount DVM, Seaside Veterinary Hospital

A common scenario is the energetic, athletic dog that would chase a ball or run into the ocean waves in their daily pursuit of living the island dog life. In the blink of an eye, your daily routine and play time with your pet can go from fun to fatal. That’s why it’s important to recognize the early warning signs and predisposing factors for heat stroke before they occur.

It’s important to realize that pets aren’t very different from us when it comes to conditioning. If you’ve ever

trained for a 5K, half or full marathon, you most likely didn’t start out running your best time or even complete your distance goal. It required conditioning and planning to stay within your comfort and limitations. In addition, you likely chose milder temperatures and favorable conditions to train in. Our pets are no different. They require a gradual increase in exercise and play intensity and duration. The thing to remember is they may not have the ability to know their limitations as we do. As a result, they may do too much too soon. Dogs do not sweat like we do and rely on panting to get rid of heat and cool themselves. Therefore, our pet’s body temperature can rise extremely fast.

There are also predisposing factors that place pets at an increased risk of heat stroke. Brachycephalic breeds

(short nosed breeds such as bulldogs and pugs) have anatomical differences from other dogs that restrict their ability to get rid of their heat through panting. Some older pets can be affected by a condition known as laryngeal paralysis that also restrict their respirations, and therefore puts them at greater risk of heat related 18 Pawsmopolitan

problems. In addition, older pets and those with preexisting cardiovascular disease as a whole can be affected more than others. Thick hair coats and those pets that aren’t appropriately acclimated to the extreme heat are all risk factors to consider. It’s important to realize your pet’s risk factors and limitations before you find yourself in a dangerous situation.

Recognizing the early signs of heat stress can be critical to preventing the development of life-threatening heat stroke. Dogs’ normal body temperature is 100 to 102.5. However, the levels of dangerous temperature elevations are identical to humans, so they may reach these levels quicker than we do. Early warning signs of dangerously high body temperature are important to recognize. Excessive panting and salivation, intensely red gums, vomiting, changes in behavior, staggering and muscle tremors are all warning signs to look out for.

No matter what preventive measures we can take, we could all find ourselves in a situation that places our pets in immediate danger of heat stroke. If this happens,

it is important to get your pet to the nearest veterinary hospital for life-saving care. Immediate recognition and appropriate intervention can be the most important factor for prevention and treatment of heat stroke. Immediately try to correct hyperthermia by spraying or immersing your pet in water prior to transport to a veterinary hospital. In addition, convection cooling with fans and evaporative cooling with isopropyl alcohol on the footpads, armpits and groin area will facilitate a decrease in body temperature. Avoid the use of ice and other freezing modalities as this may prevent heat release and complicate cooling measures.

Once you get your pet to the expert care of your veterinarian or emergency clinic, trust that they will continue the necessary in-patient care required. Many complicating factors can and most likely will arise that require continued supportive care. Intravenous fluids, plasma and other medications that increase the survival of your pet may be needed for 24 or more hours to ensure a full recovery. Despite the promptness of medical help and the best of care, the prognosis for a full recovery is likely dependent on the severity and duration of the heat stroke episode.

Therefore, managing and avoiding risk factors is always key to making sure our pets enjoy the hot summer months in the Golden Isles as much as we do.

A

Dog’s

Eye View

By Jeff Lane

Like all rabid devotees of any sports team, when dyed-in-thewool University of Georgia football fans first feast their eyes on the schedule for the upcoming season, they start salivating like a dog in anticipation of what’s to come. It’s an unavoidable, scientifically proven Pavlovian reaction.

When Uga, the beloved Bulldog mascot of the UGA gridiron squad, initially sees the forthcoming slate of games, I can only imagine what he salivates like. We have to be talking “Slobber City” here. I’m willing to bet the poor guy needs a bib!

With that in mind, and because over the years I’ve been called a “dog” incessantly (usually with the words “you” and “dirty” preceding it), I thought I’d try channeling my inner pooch and scrutinize the Georgia football calendar. With that in mind, and because

over the years I’ve been called a “dog” incessantly (usually with the words “you” and “dirty” preceding it), I thought I’d try channeling my inner pooch and scrutinize the Georgia football calendar in a manner similar to what the aforementioned charismatic canine might. So, with advance apologies to all of Man’s Best Friends everywhere…

Sept. 3 vs. North Carolina Tar Heels (in Atlanta): “Tar Heel?

What’s a Tar Heel? Well, according to the internet it’s a nickname for people from North Carolina. It originated from the fact that the tar, pitch, and turpentine created from vast pine forests were some of the state’s most important exports early in their history.

Hmmm. Forests. Trees. You know what we dogs do to trees, don’t you? Stand back people. I don’t want anybody to get splashed!”

Sept. 10 vs. Nicholls State Colonels: “The only colonel I have any love or admiration for is Colonel Sanders, so unless these clowns are packing buckets of fried chicken, we’re showing no mercy.”

Sept. 17 at Missouri Tigers: “Tigers… in Missouri... Huh? So, do these guys live in dorms on campus or in cages at the zoo? These ‘Kitties from Columbia’ don’t scare us at all.”

Sept. 24 at Ole Miss Rebels: “When the top two things your university is known for are being the college where that kid from ‘The Blind Side’ movie went and calling the toilets you use at your tailgate parties ‘Hotty Toddy Potties’, how good could your football team possibly be???”

Oct. 1 vs. Tennessee Volunteers: “Do we have any ‘volunteers’ to give me a sponge bath and a ‘manipedi’ during halftime, because I’m guessing we should have this game easily in hand by then.”

Oct. 8 at South Carolina Gamecocks: “Ya wanna hear a joke?

What does a gamecock taste like?

A ‘fowl’ chicken! Get it? Dawg-gone it, I’m funny!”

Oct. 15 vs. Vanderbilt Commodores (Homecoming): “The Commodores are playing in Athens this weekend for homecoming? I didn’t know Lionel Ritchie got the band back together. All together now - She’s a Brick-Hooouse…”

Oct. 22 OPEN DATE: “Coach Kirby and I are taking the weekend off. He promised to take me to the dog park because I’m a good boy. I love Coach Kirby. Woof! Woof!”

Oct. 29 vs. Florida Gators (in Jacksonville): “Have you ever noticed that all gators have

wrinkled skin, beady eyes, are cold-blooded and never smile? And that’s just the fans! The football team is even less attractive. Yikes!

It’s enough to make me stick my tail between my legs and run off to hide!”

Nov. 5 at Kentucky Wildcats: “I had no idea they still had a football team in Lexington! Aren’t they a basketball-only college?”

Nov. 12 vs. Auburn Tigers: “What EXACTLY is Auburn?

Tigers? War Eagles? If they can’t tell the difference between a cat and a bird, they don’t stand a chance against a pack of Dawgs!”

Nov. 19 vs. UL Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns: “I guess calling themselves just ‘Cajuns’ wasn’t intimidating enough, so they decided to kick it up a notch and go with ‘Ragin’ Cajuns’? I’m still unimpressed.”

Nov. 26 vs. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets: “I LOVE me some Thanksgiving leftovers mixed in with my Kibbles and Bits! Oh, I almost forgot. And ‘Go Dawgs, Sic ‘Em! Beat the Ramblin’ Wreck form Georgia Tech!’”

Wow! Thinking like a dog is much easier than I had imagined. Now I believe I’ll hop in the car, roll down the windows and go for a long ride.

Doesn’t that sound great?

GO DAWGS

Luke

By Charley Bland

The neon yellow tennis ball

paused mid-air in the jaws of a leaping dog. “Good catch,” and “Now I’m gonna get it back!”, yelled a tall man. He hunched over like a NFL linebacker and charged. I could swear that dog laughed (they do, you know) as he dodged and circled his man. The two could wrestle like WWF champs with no (mostly) bodily harm and no hard feelings.

This black dog had begun life with his beloved family from a scary point where too few survive. No, not even a shelter, not yet anyway.

And, by the way, I really was just driving along minding my own business.

US Hwy 17. Blue lights. No auto accident thank goodness. But there in the edge of tall pines and knee-high scrub stood a thin black dog. He and a young police officer seemed equally interested in maintaining stand-off distance between them. Yet, the cop was a good intimidation, a non-verbal safety fence that reeked of “Don’t even try it.”.

This dog could read! He’d read the officer. And after I carefully turned my car around and pulled a little distance up the highway from this wordless life and death game, this dog read me like a well-worn dog eared book.

I asked the officer, “You need some help with this guy?”. Yeh, I know, men don’t like being asked if they need help, but I was scrambling for something calm to say.

“Naw. Animal Control is on the way,” he replied. Ignoring his reply, I popped open my car’s hatch. “I have dog food in here. Don’t want him to get skittish.”

Black dog turned a page of my book, deciding I was the comforting option. He slowly walked over to me, now showing his limp. Rear leg, hip abrasion, not deep, car damage for sure, but still able to walk.

I just kept a calm conversation going with the dog. Dogs like it when people talk to them. This black dog had read me but listened patiently.

He didn’t want food, thin as he was.

Just comforting company. He eased closer beside me, sniffed my car, and yep…oh, you’ll never guess… no, he didn’t pee on a tire or on anything. He licked my hand. Yes, LICKED my hand.

This sweet black dog who’d just been hit by a car and was under arrest sort-of, cautiously and gently walked over and licked my hand…just once…just talking to me the only way he knew how.

This, I decided then and there in the roadside weeds, is one special dog. The young officer looked a

little stunned. He waited for Animal Control, and I thanked him. I couldn’t meet the dog’s eyes while Animal Control loaded him into their truck. They seemed to really care.

And I let them know…THIS dog will get a home fast because I’ll work on it fast and relentlessly. No, the four furry faces at my house were all I could provide bed, board, chew toys, and nose kisses for right then, so sweet black dog can’t go home with me.

Wish I could have thanked the person who’d called police in the first place after seeing this dog in trouble on a busy highway. That person helped save his life.

So, off to the phone bank (hyperbole for me and one phone) to put out the word. Very special injured black dog needs home or foster home right away. “No, don’t hang up, let me tell you why he’s already proven he’s soooo special.”. “Yeh, see, even after the car-hit, he licked my hand, just think how loving he’ll be in a caring family.”.

“Wish we could…already have full house of critters and kids.”.

Everybody I know has multiples of critters, kids or both.

“Well, would you spread the word to every kind, caring homo sapiens you can reach?”, “Thanks.”

As a last desperate resort, I toyed with the idea of calling my son. He and his wife have boys (dogs love boys), they are kind caring homo sapiens, have a fenced yard, and they’ve been dogless (beloved elder black dog had passed away) for over a year.

Dogless: a dire state of existence where no cold nose roots under your chin or blankets at 6:30 a.m., and where no warm, furry, comforting presence rests a chin on your knee, or nuzzles away your occasional tears, begs you to exercise, or gets up at any hour of the night to just sit with you when you cannot sleep. Doglessness has no finite description, as dogs are not finite in their indescribable love, comedy, loyalty, comedy, beauty, grace, and…did I mention comedy?

You know what could happen in a few days.

OK, deep breath, tell myself not to be surprised if he says, “No, not ready,” and so I dial the phone. I hate rejection…but anything for this black dog. “Hello”…

Yes! Adoption (and neuter) finalized.

Boys amazed, then elated. Name search begins. What would sound OK if you were roaming your neighborhood streets in your pj’s looking for your dog who accidently got out the door with the cat?

Mikey? Mickey? Taco?

Short story, to the point…

“OK, I understand”. Not unexpected, “No, not yet”. On to more phone calls (phones were our social media for a long time).

At last…ring, ring, ring…Me: “Hello.”

It’s my son. “Is that dog still at Animal Control?”.

Thumper, Bugs Bunny, and Road Runner ricochet in my smiling heart.

OK, he and his wife would go meet the dog early the next morning (time is a dangerous element at Animal Control).

Finally, Star Wars comes through… the oldest boy suggests “Luke Skywalker”, well, “Luke, Here Luke”

if yelling around the neighborhood.

Family agrees unanimously, Luke has his forever name, and so it was done…and still is.

Luke watches over “his” three boys, allows “his” cat to hug him, and… you guessed it…wrestles “his” man.

Luke naps a little (in “his” man’s favorite chair if no one catches him)…and licks “his” family’s hands and faces (even if there’s no donut residue on them) all for the love of them. Luke needed help to go from highway to home.

Many black dogs are overlooked in shelters. Maybe they aren’t as showy or something. And many dogs of all colors, sizes, and shapes need help getting from roadside to a shelter.

Help can be a 911 call. Just, help!

Luke, one love story that brought a family from doglessness to devotion, and brought Luke from highway to home.

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that the steps are on a certain side, and they may tire while trying to crawl their way out. If your pet likes to swim, work with him in the pool to help him learn where the steps are so he can get out easily. Some breeds of dogs, such as bulldogs, pugs and basset hounds, do not have the body conformation to make them natural swimmers, and may need to be taught how to swim.

Obedience training is extremely important. Your dog should come when called, even when swimming.

Emergency shortcut: Always carry extra retrieving toys.

A dog who's heading into a dangerous area after a ball or stick can often be lured back to shore with a second item. It's no substitute for training, but it could save your dog's life.

Pool Safety

BY Gina Spadafori

They didn't coin the term "doggy paddle" because

canines stay on shore. Many dogs enjoy swimming as much as people do, and cool times in the local swimming spot are irreplaceable summer experiences.

But you have to look out for your pet around water, since even the strongest, most enthusiastic swimmers can get into trouble. The keys to water safety for dogs are prevention, preparedness and awareness.

Prevention No dog should be given unsupervised access to a backyard pool, neighborhood pond or creek. Swimming pools are best fenced off for safety. If that's not possible, they should be equipped with alarms that sound when the surface of the water is broken by a child or pet falling in and a ramp to help them find their way out.

Prevention also means teaching your pet what to do when he's in the pool. Dogs don't always understand

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Preparedness Before letting your dog swim in natural surroundings, survey the area for safety. Rivers and oceans can change frequently, and an area that was once safe for swimming can become treacherous. Consider currents, tides, underwater hazards and even the condition of the water. In the late summer, algae scum on the top of standing water can be toxic, producing substances that can kill a pet who swallows the water. When in doubt, treat it like you would a child: better safe than sorry.

One of the best things you can do is to take courses in pet first aid and CPR. Many local Red Cross chapters offer these classes, and some veterinarians in your community may teach them. A near-death dog rescued from the water may be saved by your prompt actions if you know what to do. If your dog isn't much of a swimmer or is older or debilitated, get him a personal floatation device. These are especially great for family boating trips, because most have sturdy handles for rescue when a pet goes overboard.

Awareness Be aware of your dog's condition as he plays.

Remember that even swimming dogs can get hot, so bring fresh water and offer it at every opportunity. When your dog is tiring, call it a day. A tired dog is a good dog, but an exhausted dog is in danger of drowning.

Be particularly careful with young and old dogs. Young dogs can panic in the water, and old dogs may not realize they aren't as strong as they used to be.

Keep them close to shore, and keep swimming sessions short.

Georgia and Jax Best Friends

How To Give a Cat a Bath

1. Put both lids up and add 1/8 cup of pet shampoo to the water.

2. Pick up the cat and soothe him while you carry him towards the bathroom.

3. In one smooth movement, put the cat in the toilet and close both lids. You may need to stand on the lid.

4. The cat will self agitate and make ample suds. Never mind the loud noises, the cat is actually enjoying this.

5. Flush three or four times. This provides a “power-wash and rinse�.

6. Have someone open the front door of your home. Be sure that there are no people between the toilet and the front door.

7. Stand behind the toilet as far as you can, and quickly lift both lids.

8. The cat will rocket out, streak through the room, and run outside where he will dry himself off.

9. Both the toilet and the cat will be sparkling clean.

Sincerely, The Dog

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Rescue: Safe Hollow Established: 2005 Residents: 195 Divisions: Brunswick & Ludowici Monthly Care Cost: $2,500 “I am strong, but I am also tired.”. This seems to be the common theme heard from rescue organizations. And fitting for such an organization that houses 160 cats and 35 dogs. This is no ordinary rescue. It is a sanctuary for animals of all ages. Ones’ who are sick or experiencing severe trauma; and ones that have been abused and in many cases left for dead will have a haven where they will be given loving care for the rest of their lives.

The ones who are healthy and adoptable will be given the same treatment until a forever home, with a loving family, has been found for them.

The Hollow, as its volunteers like to call it, was founded in 2005. They have been known to make the unobtainable obtainable. When someone tells them that an animal has a minimal chance of survival, the Hollow fights harder to assure that they have a fighting chance to live. Giving up is not an option in their eyes.

With a great working relationship with several vets, Safe Hollow has been able to rehabilitate the ones who were given minimal chances of survival. With this being said, these animals will need extensive care. Rehabilitation comes with a price. The sanctuaries annual care cost exceeds $20,000. It takes close to $2,500 to care for the animals monthly - hardly pocket change. For a while, Safe Hollow had a Federal grant of $10,000. And like all other grants, this one had an expiration date. Now Safe Hollow depends solely on the donations in the community.

Not only this, but they have a wonderful network of forsters and volunteers that play very important roles in the keeping this wonderul santuary caring for the animals.

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Safe Hollow has two divisions. The first is the animal sanctuary that is located in Ludowici. Here, they have 195 residents that are living out their forever lives. The second is the division in Brunswick. They work closely with Making of Miracle Stories Rescue and Animal Aid USA in New Jersey. Here, they relocate pregnant moms and moms with puppies, death row dogs, and litters of puppies not thriving in the shelter environment to homes up north. Thank goodness for the people willing to transport!

Often, people who participate in animal rescue have two lives. The first is their day-to-day life. The one where they have to work a full time job, get the kids off to school, keep food on the table, and a roof over their head. Then there is the other life. The one who works to support the welfare of animals by donating their time, their money, their homes, their families, and their hearts to keeping these animals safe and alive. These people are strong to be able to maintain two separate lives. But with being strong, they are also tired. Although they probably wouldn’t say it, they need help like the animals. And to think, if the rescue network could grow one more person than the day before, maybe we could take one step closer to saving all lives.

For more information on how you can become a foster, please friend us on Facebook @ facebook.com/ SafeHollow.

Happy Tails from the Hollow

By Lea McCarthy

Lacy was found by a very concerned Glynn County citizen, wandering

the streets alone, and he brought her into GCAC on October 16, 2015 for help. She had been taken by staff at GCAC to a local vet, who said that her infection was so great it was unlikely she would make the through the night.

Safe Hollow was notified that she will be put down and instead pulled her out. She was rushed to Cedars Animal Hospital in Richmond Hill and the amazing veterinarians got to work. It was a long road for this sweet girl.

After healing completely, Safe Hollow had her spayed and vaccinated and then wished her a wonderful new life in her new home. She is currently a SSI dog, who spends her days with her fur-daddy, walking the beaches and exploring the land. She is valued and treasured.

Tippy came into GCAC after being hit by a vehicle, on

December 28th 2015. He was badly injured and could not walk.

Safe Hollow received word of his situation on January 6th and pulled him right away. He was brought to Cedars animal hospital where it was discovered that he had a dislocated hip and a contralateral femur fracture. Neither of his back legs could support his weight. He underwent surgery to fix his broken body, and spent six weeks in a medical foster home on strict crate rest. Once he was able to ambulate, he went to a Safe Hollow foster family, where he learned to socialize with other dogs, and worked on regaining a normal gait. Although Tippy will always walk with a limp, he found his forever home and is now a Florida dog, soaking up the rays, with an amazing family.

Maya was brought to GCAC as a stray, while pregnant. She originally had

10 puppies. When Safe Hollow was notified, she had seven puppies remaining.

Maya was emaciated, HW positive, and a pitbull. Her chances of finding a forever home and ever leaving the shelter were very slim. Unfortunately, many moms are left behind. Their sweet puppies get placed, and momma is abandoned in an overcrowded kill shelter. Safe Hollow pulled her, found a foster mom just in time, as Maya’s puppies were all Parvo positive. After two weeks of hospitalization, and one more puppy lost, Maya and her pups were ready to go up north for a furever family. Making of Miracle Stories (MOMS) rescue brought Maya and her pups to NJ. Maya’s babies were all adopted out to wonderful homes. Then it was Maya’s turn. After being treated for heartworms and being spayed, Maya found her furever mom! She is one spoiled and pampered pouch now!

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Pawsmopolitan

We must be a voice for the voiceless

By Emma Snow / www.dog-pound.net

PICK ME!

Why a Shelter Dog is Your Best Choice Disney left a life-long impression on me when, as a

youngster, I viewed the dog pound scene in Lady and the Tramp. Mournful mutts howled out a pitiful rendition of “Home Sweet Home,” which nobody but the most callous could sit through dry-eyed. The pound was portrayed as a cruel place manned by heartless dogcatchers. I vowed never to step foot in one, not even to save the life of one of the rejected creatures. Adopting a pet under such sad conditions would certainly place a cloud over the day. Could I ever leave completely happy with the dog I chose, knowing that dozens were left behind in misery?

Typically, when a family decides to adopt a dog, they check the pet store, the newspaper, and maybe the neighborhood for a puppy. More often than not, this spells disaster. While unarguably cute, puppies are not for everyone. Puppies, no matter what breed, take lots of time, money, and patience. Unless you are prepared to deal with urine spots on the carpet, sleepless nights, and hundreds of dollars in pet-related equipment and veterinarian bills (not to mention replacing chewed up clothing), you are not prepared for a puppy! In fact, this is the very reason animal shelters are filled to capacity.

Puppies grow up fast and their newness wears off, and all too many owners find themselves too frazzled to continue. Thus, Fido ends up behind bars for no fault of

his own. The vast majority of dogs in shelters are there because people weren’t thinking about the time, effort, and money involved in raising a dog. (Other common reasons are families relocating, owner’s deaths, or divorces that leave a dog in the mix.)

Think twice before bringing home a pup. An older dog is calmer, will pick up housetraining (and other obedience training) faster, and have outgrown the frustrating chew stage. Perhaps the best thing of all is that they are more predictable; what you see is what you get. With adult dogs the size, shape, skills, and temperament have already been determined. Depending on the shelter, they may even have a pet history!

Another reason to avoid pet-finding in pet stores and newspapers is that these places are largely supplied by backyard breeders and puppy mills, notorious for breeding unhealthy animals in inhumane conditions.

The best way to shut down these operations is to avoid supporting them. While they may boast purebreds for low prices, a mixed breed mutt has much lower incidence of health defects than poorly bred purebreds.

(Adoption days at places like PetSmart are run by shelters, and not supplied by puppy mills. Furthermore, most shelters now have web sites so you can start your dog search on-line. Petfinder.org lists dogs by specific Pawsmopolitan 29

breeds, a great tool if you know what you are looking for!)

Cost is also another reason that shelter dogs come out on top.

For a nominal fee, you bring home a dog that is up-to-date on vaccinations, has had a general health exam, and has been sterilized. Often the fee may include the cost of microchipping and licensing. Sometimes you even score coupons for free food and equipment on Adoption Days! Keep in mind that no dog is ever “free.”

You should always have a new pet checked by a veterinarian to avoid the spread of disease. Having your pet spayed or neutered is a petowner’s responsibility not to be postponed. Heartworm treatments, chew toys, and other necessary equipment add up. It’s hard to beat the all-inclusive fee offered by a shelter.

But perhaps the best reason to adopt a shelter dog is the values it teaches your children. Bring home an older dog, and you send the message that all creatures have intrinsic worth, not just the “cute babies.” Giving a dog a second home teaches another fabulous lesson, and dogs who have suffered losses often bond faster to their new people, eager to belong again.

Children appreciate knowing about second chances. Finally, when you bring home a shelter dog you save the life of a dog whose only alternative may be euthanasia. 60% of animals placed in shelters meet this fate. By including children in this important decision-making process, making careful choices, and being a responsible pet owner, you teach children the best lesson of all.

GOLDEN ISLES

&

Area Shelters Rescue Organizations Angel’s Helping Hands 13760 Post Road Hortense, GA 31543 (912) 409-7389 angelshelpinghandsorg.weebly.com FB: Angels Helping Hands Brantley Animal Rescue Coalition (BARC) Brantleyanimalrescuecoalition. weebly.com Donation link is located on website FB: Brantley Animal Rescue Coalition Castaways Pet Rescue, Inc. 11659 GA Hwy 99 Darien, GA 31305 / (912) 270-0119 FB: Castaways Pet Rescue Cause for Paws, Inc. 2001 Sea Palms West Drive St. Simons Island, GA 31522 www.causeforpawsga.com FB: Cause for Paws, Inc. Coastal Animal Rescue Society, Inc. 117 Shore Rush Circle St. Simons Island, GA 31522 (912) 230-9125 www.carsga.org FB: Coastal Animal Rescue Society Friends of Glynn Animals Brunswick, GA Inc. 114 Fantail Court Brunswick, GA 31525 www.friendsofgynnanimals.org Donation link is www.gofundme. com/glynnanimals FB: Friends of Glynn Animals Georgia Sea Turtle Center 214 Stable Road Jekyll Island, GA 31527 (912) 635-4444 www.georgiaseaturtlecenter.org

Glynn County Animal Control 4765 Hwy 17 North Brunswick, GA 31525 (912) 554-7500 www.glynncountyanimals.org Greatful Goldens Rescue of the Low Country 24 Bridgewater Way Brunswick, GA 31525 Phone or fax: (912) 264-6975 www.ggrlc.org FB: Grateful Golden Retriever Rescue of the Low Country Humane Animal Resource Team, Inc. (HART) 1184 Animal Shelter Drive Darien, GA 31305 (912) 437-4242 www.heartofmcintosh.com FB: Humane Animal Resource Team, Inc. Humane Society of So Coastal GA 4627 Hwy 17 North Brunswick, GA 31525 (912) 264-6246 www.hsscg.org FB: Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia Max’s Animal Rescue, Inc. 2320 Saddle Club Road Hoboken, Georgia 31542 912-816-3776 www.maxsanimalrescue.com FB: Max’s Animal Rescue No Kill Glynn County 241 Florida Street St. Simons Island, GA 31522 (912) 223-5997 www.nokillgynncounty.org FB: No Kill Glynn County Safehollow P.O. Box 732 Ludowici, GA 31316 (912) 545-9743 email: safehollow@aol.com www.yourcause.com/safehollow The List - 48 Hours of Hope Networks death row animals at Glynn County Animal Control (912) 258-0058 or (912) 223-7770 Donations accepted via link on FB FB: The List - 48 Hours of Hope

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