Chubbs Page 6
Sunny Page 3
Clyde Page 4
APRIL 2007 PREMIER ISSUE
Nicki & Nina Page 3
PRICELESS
Child’s Play Animals have a good friend in dogcrazy Morgan Sheehy. After all, the seven-year-old made a special commitment to the Second Chance Animal Rescue Society – and got her human friends involved, too.
What’s Inside Teddy, Sasha, Tusha and Foxy’s plea for a retirement home
By George Lee Contributing Editor
O
nce you become a pet owner, you’d better be dedicated to the many tasks at hand. Actors in a play written by a young Edmontonian know all about that kind of commitment. “No quitters,” says seven-year-old Morgan Sheehy, who put on her play to raise money for the Second Chance Animal Rescue Society. “I said you could only quit before your costume was finished. After that, you were stuck.” A SCARS presentation on spaying and neutering, which she saw at her school, got Morgan’s creative wheels turning. “We had a magic show at school once, and I thought, why couldn’t I do that with a play and help SCARS?” says the Caraway Program student. Not just any play, mind you. Morgan’s play needed a hero, named Jackson, and it needed a villain, The Wizard. The Wizard captures eight children, who come from a “really poor” home. Life with The Wizard is no picnic. He locks up the children. But two of them break out, and the courageous Jackson rescues the rest. Morgan wanted her play to appeal to many tastes. It had to be part horror and part magic. It had to have some fairy tale in there, too, because “some people like fairy tales.” With help from teacher Starla Ropp, the children put on Morgan’s play and raised $24 in by-donation admissions. After collecting further money from beyond their audience, the children had their total for SCARS: $34. Mom Kelly Sheehy says it’s great that the youngsters wanted to help a non-profit group. The play represents an important turning point for her daughter’s social conscience, she says. Morgan has raised money for charity before, but for the first time she was the project’s creator. The play is no random act of goodwill, however. SCARS is close to Morgan’s heart. In fact, her family often provides temporary care for a terrier cross named Wallace, under the SCARS foster home program. Wallace, who’s about three years old, has just one eye that works and he’s missing many teeth. Despite the pain in his past, he’s friendly and loves human company. When SCARS rescued Wallace from a northern Alberta pound, he’d lost half his weight and was on the verge of death. “He was in rough shape,” says Kelly. Adds Morgan: “I don’t know why anyone would want to hurt him.”
Read our story on page 2
Morgan and Wallace loving it up in her backyard Neither do SCARS and the other animal lovers who support the society. SCARS is dedicated to reducing the number of homeless and abandoned animals in northern Alberta. A volunteer-run, non-profit society, SCARS needs donations from Morgan Sheehy and her friends. In fact memberships, donations, sponsorships and other fundraising efforts are its only sources of income. When the society can, it reunites lost animals with their rightful owners. It provides veterinary care and foster homes until permanent homes are found. Responsible pet guardianship is important to SCARS. It promotes the importance of spaying and neutering, and general community awareness about pet guardianship. The message certainly found its way to Morgan. She’d like to keep Wallace permanently – although her parents and the family dog, a one-year-old Labradoodle named Holly, remain undecided for now. When Morgan gets out on her own, the pet scene could get really busy. “I want to have 10 dogs and eight kids when I grow up,” she says.
continued page 7
Sunshine Gal.................................................3 An Apple A Day ~ Oldies But Goodies............5 Training Tips ~ Take A Walk In Their Paws........6 Tails From Home.............................................8 The Poop - News & Events...............................8 RESCUE ORGANIZATIONS NASAP............................................................3 PAW AND CLAWS ANIMAL RESCUE..............3 SHARES.........................................................4 BEAGLE PAWS................................................4 FFARRA.........................................................5 AFS...............................................................5 SCARS...........................................................6 SNAP.............................................................7 PARS.............................................................7 MISTY CREEK DOG RESCUE..........................8 THE McDONALD FAMILY RESCUE...................8 April’s Feature Rescue Group SHARES page 4
Thank you to all our advertisers that have purchased space in this first issue. We hope that your belief in our product will lead to the sales of yours. As for our readers, please support our advertisers as their contribution makes it possible for us to donate the space to our rescue groups. Allowing them the opportunity to showcase their animals and tell their stories.
Volume 1 - Number 1 Pet Rescue Magazine Brought to you by the Pet Rescue Team Publisher Jamie L. Hunter Contributing Writers Daryl Meger, DVM Nicole Johnston, CPDT George Lee How To Reach Us: We welcome comments, suggestions, article ideas, or questions. Please send them to: Pet Rescue Magazine Box 37099, 8712-150 Street, Edmonton, AB T5R 1EO email rescuemag@shaw.ca www.petrescuemagazine.com Pet Rescue Magazine is dedicated to saving the lives of homeless animals by promoting adoptions of rescued pets. Our goal is to provide an up-to-date pictorial directory of shelters, humane societies and rescue organizations in the Northern & Central Alberta area. Deadline for submissions is approximately the 15th of each month prior to publication. Pet Rescue Magazine is published on a monthly basis by Finally Free Publishing, Inc. Pet Rescue Magazine cannot guarantee the health or temperament of any animal offered for adoption through this publication. We try to keep information as current and accurate as possible; however, we cannot guarantee the availability of a specific animal. Prospective pet parents must contact the organization directly to make certain a particular pet is still available or to inquire about the adoption process. Disclaimer: Finally Free Publishing, Inc. does not endorse or guarantee any products, services, or vendors mentioned in Pet Rescue Magazine, nor can it be responsible for problems with their products or services. Also, Finally Free Publishing, Inc. reserves the right to reject, at its discretion, any advertisment. Views expressed by various authors are not necessarily those of Finally Free Publishing, Inc. ©2007 Finally Free Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without prior written consent of publishers is prohibited.
EVERYTHING HAS VALUE ESPECIALLY THE TREASURES IN THIS PUBLICATION Please circulate pet rescue magazine to help ensure these rescues get maximum exposure and find new homes. 2
Lap It Up!
WANTED
SPECIAL HOME FOR SOME SPECIAL PETS Ksenia loves her companions and is near tears most days now as she looks at them in despair. Ksenia has to move overseas and can see no way of taking her loyal friends with her. The problem is all of her pets are seniors and can not make the trip. Finding a home for the old faithfuls is very challenging. “My friends are still full of life and have a lot of love to give. They have never let me down, so now it’s my turn to return the loyalty and not give up on them” says Ksenia. Ksenia heard about pet rescue magazine through SNAP (page 7) one of our participating rescue groups. Her tenacity to find her companions a home lead us to tell her story. Teddy is a Newfoundland/Akita cross and Sasha a German Shepherd cross. Both are 11 years old in excellent health, neutered/ spayed, and vaccinated. They have been together their whole lives and are totally bonded to each other and must stay together. The dogs are both indoor pets and are used to being taken for walks twice daily. Teddy and Sasha are very well trained, they are gentle, even tempered, do not jump or beg for food. They get along well with other dogs and cats as well as people. Both are very affectionate and would be wonderful companions for an older person(s). Both dogs are used to company and have spent most day’s of their lives accompanying Ksenia to work, however, they are good when left home alone. Ksenia’s cats, Tusha and Foxy, are also indoor pets. Although Foxy is known to take in some summer lazing in the backyard. They are both 17 years young in excellent health, neutered/ spayed, vaccinated and litter trained. Please remember mature doesn’t mean old it’s calm,
editorial
The Pet Rescue Team
Welcome to pet rescue magazine! We are thrilled to bring you this exciting first Northern & Central Alberta edition, produced especially for those who value pets. Many people do not realize how many rescue groups there are operating in and around the Edmonton area or how many unwanted animals are looking for a second chance in life. Being heavily involved in rescue work, we have experienced firsthand the surprise of many who were unaware of how many rescue groups exist or just how many hundreds upon hundreds of animals people have let down. We are taking our natural passion for animals, our compassion for the unwanted, our personal experience with rescue groups as well as many years of education & experience to bring you pet rescue magazine. Our mission is to encourage adoptions of rescued animals, increase awareness of unwanted pets & the rescue groups who care for them while promoting responsible pet guardianship. We promise to provide you with a wonderful pictorial showcase of rescued pets and interesting articles. pet rescue magazine will provide a beautiful collection of photographs with information on adoptable pets and a great mix of editorial content while supporting rescued animals and their cause. Every issue will be available free of charge through various distribution points such as vet’s offices, local businesses both pet related and otherwise, rescue group memberships and other supporters of animal rescue. Whether you live, love, play or work with animals you will love pet rescue magazine! Things you should know about pet rescue magazine: • It is important to note that pet rescue magazine donates space to the rescue groups free of charge & is available to the public free of charge. • All animal rescue groups, shelters and humane societies are welcome to participate in pet rescue magazine. When space is limited organizations will be rotated to ensure all get exposure. • Each month one rescue group will be featured and our future goal, once established, is to give a portion of net proceeds from that month’s advertising revenue to this group. • Although we are doing this for all the right reasons, we are not non-profit…our pets have to eat too! Please help us by supporting the businesses that advertise with us. Without them pet rescue magazine would be unable to donate the space for these precious animals to be viewed by all of you.
relaxed and at peace with the world. If you have room in your home and your heart, or know of someone who can help give these pets the same type of home they’ve always enjoyed, your call would be most welcome. Please call Jamie at pet rescue magazine 780.637.0999 or email rescuemag@shaw.ca. If you prove to be the right match, provisions may be made towards the expense of their care.
Thank you for reading pet rescue magazine we hope you will enjoy viewing the lucky animals that have found their way into these wonderful rescue organizations. Our team is very excited about this endeavor! Kindest Regards The Team at pet rescue magazine If you would like to advertise with pet rescue magazine please email petrescuemag@shaw.ca We really appreciate your comments in these early months. Please feel free to email us directly at rescuemag@shaw.ca
Pet Promise Thousands of years ago, we humans formed a covenant with our companion animals. We wanted them to live with us and to share our lives. Because of this our ‘pets’ lost most of their natural skills to fend for themselves. It then became our responsibility to feed and care for them. While the animals have kept their end of the bargain, we humans largely have not. Unknown
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SAY YOU SAW THEM IN PET RESCUE pet rescue magazine - April 07
Northern Alberta Society For Animal Protection www.nasap.ca Anybunny out there
want to give us a home? I’m Nicholas a black, neutered male and that’s Nina a spotted spayed female we are either a brother/sister or mom/son pair, sorry we don’t know. What we do know is we were abandoned outside. We are large, easy going bunnies (size of a small cat) and we’re deeply bonded and must go to a loving new home together. We’re are litter box trained, quiet & friendly, and have two very distinct personalities. We are used to cats, guinea pigs, and small (BUNNY FRIENDLY) dogs .We would make wonderful first-time bunnies for someone who has researched how to look after bunnies. Sadly, we’ve been waiting a long time for a loving indoor home! Two bunnies keep one another company, give each other support, groom each other and play together. Paired bunnies are healthier, happier, and more content because they have each other, and they do not represent twice the work. I’m all curled up and no place to go. Hi my name is Haley and I’m a beautiful eight month old female, short/med. haired grey cat. My mom was a stray that gave birth to a litter of four kittens in early July. The whole family was brought to NASAP and the my mom and two kittens have found homes already. I’m doing really well with the love and affection here in my foster home but I would love my very own family. My sister and I are very affectionate and love to follow our foster Mom around from room to room. I’m just small cat and will probably not be very large once I’m full-grown.
I’m Poppy with the big bright eyes. I was initially shy and nervous and although I’d purr if my foster mom looked or talked to me, I didn’t want to get near her at first. I’m happy to say, now I know that not all humans are scary (thanks to my foster mom). I’m very outgoing and I love to be petted but I’m I’m still a little nervous if anyone moves too quickly around me. I’m quite playful and I like being with other cats. I would do quite well in a house with children and other animals. I’ve become very playfull and will chase my foster mom across the floor while trying to grab her feet so she’ll pay attention to me. I like lots of activity and love to play. Oh yes, I’m a domestic short hair and approximately 3 months old. Archie here, I am a handsome wonderful dog and although energetic, I am surprisingly calm after spending several weeks in a local pound. I get on well with other dogs and I appear to be good with small animals. I would give chase to cats or rabbits in play but I do not seem aggressive toward them. I am a bit possessive of my cuddle time with humans, wanting all the attention to myself but that is likely due to the length of time I spent as a stray. I know my basic commands but am easily distracted so I will need some further training. I am smart, eager to please, and extremely affectionate with people. I would likely be best with children 8 and over. I am a super boy who will be a great companion to a family who will work with me to reach my full potential. By the way did I tell you I’m about 2 1/2 years old and a Border Collie x Flat Coat Retriever. I approximately weigh in at a handsome 55lbs of love.
Thanks for checking us out! Don’t forget to call! (780) 922-0250
Well hello there, thanks for reading my bio. My name is Sunny and I am a lovely, active girl who would do extremely well in flyball, agility or search & rescue but I’m not so good with livestock. I am very focused when necessary & will look to you for direction. My manners and training are coming along nicely. I get along great with other dogs and I am a very loyal companion. I have lived with a 9 year old and would probably be best with older kids as I can be hyper at times. I am also capable of jumping a 5’ fence if there is something interesting on the other side so I will need a secure yard with a minimum 6’ fence. I have a very lovely personality and in the right home will be a fabulous member of the family. I’m a young gal approximately 18 months and they say a Aussie Shepherd cross and I am a svelt 55lbs..well approximately...you know how us girls are sensitive about our weight! Could you find a place in your home and heart for me?
Christy Wooffee!!!!!!!!!! I’m the very first Sunshine Gal! How’s that for being special. Oh Hi! I’m baby Diva well my real name for now is Christy and I’m just too cute for my own good! I have a brother and two sisters, but one has already found her furrever home so I’m hoping that mine will come along soon. I’m the smallest of the four of my family but I’ve certainly done a good job of holding my own. I had to go to the doggy doctor to be vaccinated so that’s all squared away for now. Please come and meet me. If you’re anything like my foster dad then all I’ll have to do is look at you and you’ll pick me up. I have him wrapped around my little paw (heeheehee). I’m simply adorable please call me. For more information on Christy please contact SCARS at (780) 2201201.
the fact is: A dog run should be at least two times the length of the dog you are building it for. Measure the dog from its nose to the tip of its tail
HALEY HAS BONDED WITH GG. AS A RESULT WE WILL ADOPT THESE TWO CATS TOGETHER FOR THE PRICE OF ONE. Hey! That’s my sister above..guess what we’re a toofer!!! I’m GG and I’m a small, eight month-old, grey, white & black tabby cat. I’m such a beautiful girl who looks a little bit like a lynx with ear tufts and a thick beautiful coat. Purrrrr! I may have some Maine Coone in me, so that means I will require regular brushing to keep my coat in good shape. I too am very affectionate and love to follow my foster Mom around from room to room just like Haley. I love people once I get to know them, and my foster mom says I have a special affinity for men.
Mirror, mirror on the wall whose the most handsome kitty of all? Well that would be me folks! I’m Sunny I am a young orange male tabby with medium length hair. Yes, I’m a very handsome guy with a pink nose, white whiskers and ear tufts. My poor coat was neglected so I had some matting of my beautiful fur when I came into care. I will require regular brushing in my new home. I am a wonderful, calm and friendly cat that is looking for a family to love me. I will be an excellent companion please call soon.
PAWS AND CLAWS ANIMAL RESCUE www.pawsandclawsanimalrescue.ca
Hello my name is Hype. Well with a name like that you’d think all I do is run around. Yes, I’m a happy-go-lucky friendly guy who gets along with kids, cats and is good around livestock. I get on well with other dogs as long as I’m allowed to be the dominant dog in the mix. Don’t you think I’m a good looking guy with my Springer Spaniel eyebrows and my big bushy Husky tail,mind you I’m not big on having it touched or pulled. I will jump and play for hours outside but I calm down in the house and will lie at your side. I’m a very resourceful pooch I can be an escape artist if left outside by myself. I’m equally as resourceful if left alone in the house finding something to occupy me. I really need a family where there is someone home most of the time or with other hyper dogs to keep me busy. I’m only 2 1/2 years old and about 55lbs. Please give me a wonderful new life - Remember even though I’m snoozing now I promise to keep you busy!
pet rescue magazine - April 07
How cute! Even though we say it ourselves. I’m Bismarck the fuzzy black hunk of love on the left and this is my sister Colombia. We are twelve-week-old Husky/Great Pyrenees puppies and we’re in foster care. We are healthy, sweet, outgoing little pups. We love everyone and everything! We willl grow into very large loveable dogs. For more information on us, please contact Janet at 780-264-3216 or visit us on our website at www.pawsandclaws.ca
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April’s Feature Rescue Society
SHARES Animal Rescue Edmonton, AB
For the Purrrfect love in your life
Safe Haven Animal Rescue Edmonton Society (SHARES) is a non-profit
rescue organization, with many of our volunteers having years of experience in rescue and animal care who have come together to provide a much needed service to Edmonton and surrounding area. There is a great need for rescue organizations to help the homeless pet population. In most
cases all the animal needs is more time to find that great new home. We at SHARES do not have a central facility, but are comprised of a network of foster families who take in orphans and make them part of the family until a permanent new home can be found. Spaying and neutering is mandatory for any animal adopted from SHARES. Currently we are in desperate need of adult dog food so any donations would be appreciated. Here are just a few of our animals in care.
Hi I’m Midnight I’m a large male cat who is neutered and quite playful. I am good with other cats but I do not care much for all those dogs. I am quite affectionate and I love to be scratched behind the ears. I am litter trained and I’m quite happy to curl up in my bed.
Attention Seeker!! Dogs rule...cats..hmmm make good chew toys or lunch! I’m Duke and as you may have gathered I’m looking for a home that doesn’t have cats. I’m a neutered male with some Husky, Lab and Collie and approximately 3yrs old. I’m good with some other dogs but would have to meet them (I’m picky). I travel well in the car. I also have a great personality and I would be a great dog for the outdoors as I’m quite happy outside verses in the home. I really want to find my forever home but please remember no cats please. For further (D2006116)
Hey folks I’m Batman! I’m a friendly guy who ended up at the pound. I guess the nice people there tried many times to reach my owner but they never did come to get me. So now I’m residing with SHARES, even though I like it here I do want my own home again. I do travel well in a crate and I can tolerate dogs. I love to be loved especially now as I was just recently neutered. If you could give me a caring and forever home, please call SHARES. (C200725)
HUGE head. (Just bigger brains..woof, woof!) Actually it’s because I’m a Masitff/Shepherd X. Oh and did I tell you I’m 2yrs old and I’m good with other dogs big and small and love people. I’m a strong boy that is well behaved in the home and car. I’m also potty and crate trained. If you have a place in your heart I know I can fill it please call SHARES for more information on me. (D2006253)
information on any of the SHARES residents please call 780 707 5753 or email dogsrus@shaw.ca www.sharesrescue.com
Hi there I’m Beans! I’m a lovely little girl and I’m great with other dogs and cats. I’m also very friendly and loving with everyone I meet. I guess I’m a great rep for the Pit Bull breed and would be a great addition to any family. My only flaw is that I get soooo happy that sometimes I bang my tail in happiness and it starts to bleed because of how hard I’m am wagging. I’m potty and crate trained, good in the car, and good on the leash. Over all I’m a great dog!! Please come see me SOON!!! (D2006275)
Beagle Paws Rescue www.beaglepaws.com Edmonton Chapter Contact Number (780) 478-4022 Weston is the friendliest beagle you will ever meet. Just ask Evan, he’s the little boy playing with him and one of Beagle Paws youngest volunteers. In this picture Weston is all smiles for the camera. He is approximately 8 years old, neutered and has had his first set of shots. If you are looking for a dog to cuddle up with on those cold winter nights, or just to hang out with, Weston is the dog for you. Contact us to find out how you can make Weston a member of your family.
Katie Katie is a sweet 2 year old female beagle that can be shy when you first meet her. However, once she gets to know you she warms up and shows you what a fun loving girl she can be. Katie is spayed and all of her vaccinations are up to date. Shet will do best in a home with another dog for companionship. Contact us to find out how you can make Katie part of your family.
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Darcy is a two 2 year old male beagle that is looking for a great home to call his own. Darcy will do best in a home where he is the only doggie and there are no young children. Darcy is enrolled in obedience training beginning in April, and his new family will be encouraged to participate with him. He is neutered and all of his vaccinations are up to date. If you are interested in adopting Darcy, please contact us.
pet rescue magazine - April 07
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AN APPLE A DAY.......
For more information on any of these birds please visit
If you have a question concerning the health of your pet, mail them to Pet Rescue Magazine: An Apple A Day... Box 37099, 8712-150 Street, Edmonton, AB T5R 1EO or send an email to: rescuemag@shaw.ca
www.parrotrescue.ca
Feathered Friends, Avian Rescue & Resource Association
Oldies But Goodies
Diesel, Maximillian Pionus Seriously folks, could I be more handsome??? My name is Diesel & I am quite an active fellow, full of energy! I will be a lot of fun for the right family. I do tend to play favourites and sometimes can show aggression towards other family members, so I need a home with people who have some experience handling parrots. With a little love and patience, I will be a wonderful companion.
Aldo , Citron Cockatoo …could you be the one I’ve been waiting for? Hi, my name is Aldo and I am a low maintenance gal with few demands other than good food and lots of attention. I am very sociable and affectionate so I require a lot of interaction with my human flock. They say I am a real sweetheart who is looking for special love from a special new family.
Your faithful friend’s well being is in your hands, and this becomes all the more critical in a pet’s senior years. Your job is to be observant and proactive, giving your senior pet the quality of life it deserves. Lionel Moluccan Cockatoo They say I am a gregarious fellow who commands attention…a real handful! I am full of love humor & energy and looking for a best friend with lots of experience with large parrots. I also really love my treats!
Kiwi, Parroltet I am a quick little bird who loves to be close to my people! I use my flight to do just that. I may look tiny but I have a bird personality! I will bring fun to any household & make a wonderful companion.
(780) 470-4179 Hi I’m Albert. I’m currently living in a foster home in Calgary. I am a Mitred Conure
Hi I’m Peaches. I’m currently living in a foster home in Lethbridge. I am a Muluccan Cockatoo
“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” ~ Anatole France AFS (Alberta Ferret Society)
visit us at www.albertaferretsociety.com or call (780) 447-3336
Cloe
Sarah
Cloe & Sarah were surrendered together in Dec 2006. They are not particularly bonded to each other so they could be adopted individually, preferabley into homes with existing ferrets. Both were estimated at three years of age at the time of surrender. Cloe is a Dark Sable female. Cloe is a bit skittish and nervous around people but once she’s had time to adjust and get to know you her personality blossoms and she turns into a bundle of joy. Sarah is a fluffy Dark Eyed White female who is more outgoing and curious. She loves being carried, cuddles and getting neck rubs. Sarah has a heart condition and will need to be on medication long-term.
pet rescue magazine - April 07
Potter
Simon
Potter & Simon are a bonded pair who must be adopted together. They are each one year of age and are Panda coloured males. These two are the perfect ferrets for the first time ferret owner. They are well behaved, curious, energetic and fun and will keep you entertained for hours. Note: Ferrets are not cage animals. They need between 3-7 hours of out-of-cage time in which to play and interact. Time varies depending on the age of the ferret. For more information about adopting or about ferrets in general please call the AFS Hotline at (780) 447-3336 or toll free at 1-877-FERRET-0. Or you can visit our web site at www.albertaferretsociety.com or email admin@albertaferretsociety.com
Rosco Rosco is a Chocolate Sable male and is one of the longest ferrets we’ve seen. Estimated at 3 1/2 to 4 years of age, at time of surrender, Rosco is definitely a people ferret and does not care much for other ferrets. If you are looking for the perfect companion look no further. Rosco will follow you around, lay at your feet and pretty much pester you constantly hoping to get you to play with him.
Daryl Meger DMV Dr. Meger is a practicing veterinarian at Whitemud Creek Veterinary Clinic, Edmonton
O
ur pets serve us in many ways. They protect us. They are loving companions, sometimes even substitutes for children or other family. They offer independence for those with disabilities, ranging from blindness and deafness to other conditions that reduce physical movement. They’re even good for us. Pets give us the incentive to exercise, and studies have shown they actually improve human health and help us live longer, simply by being around us. Some studies link reduced blood pressure to pet ownership. Just like their human owners, however, pets grow old. Often with a senior pet, a special bond has developed through the years. The natural wish of owners is to take care of these great companions in their senior days. But are you turning that wish into action by actually doing what your senior pet requires and deserves? First, let’s look at what’s actually happening in the aging animal. Aging is complex process, resulting in the progressive reduction of an individual’s ability to maintain homeostasis, or balance. This makes the body less viable and more vulnerable to disease. Age is not a disease in itself, but rather a manifestation of the body’s diminished repair response. Aging results in a slower metabolism. This is often accompanied by reduced activity, which can result in a higher percentage of body fat. Increased weight makes many diseases more likely, including diabetes and heart, lung and orthopedic disorders. It may lead to an increase in neoplasia, the presence of abnormal tissue masses. Making the situation more complex is an immune system that does not function as well as it once did. Senior pets have a higher incidence of major organ failure, benign and malignant tumours, arthritis, and loss of senses such as hearing and vision. Older animals also develop more severe dental disease than their younger selves did. In animals, old age is generally defined as the last 25 per cent of a lifespan, but this is affected by genetics, nutrition and environment. We commonly consider that: Cats and small dogs (under 20 lb.) begin their senior years at age 9 Medium-sized dogs (21-59 lb.)
“
age 8
Large dogs
“
age 7
“
age 6
Giant breeds
(51-90 lb.)
Many disease processes seen in older pets can be controlled or resolved if they are detected early enough. Early detection and prompt treatment improve the chances that older pets will live longer, better-quality lives. Pets today already have an increased life expectancy, primarily due to advances in veterinary care, nutrition, vaccination – and the care provided by informed owners. continued page 7
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ASK THE EXPERT
Take A Walk In Nicole Johnston, CPDT Their Nicole Johnston, Is the Paws owner and a certified trainer at Dogspaw Daycare and Training Centre, Edmonton
Hiring a qualified trainer is a good way to start the communication process on the right foot – and paw.
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memory, social facilitation and by formal training. Formal training can include Classical Conditioning or Operant Conditioning. Classical Conditioning is where the dog learns a relationship between two stimuli. For example if you were to blow a whistle every time just before feeding your dog, the dog would soon learn that the sound of the whistle corresponds with food. Operant Conditioning is where the dog learns an association between a behavior and a consequence. It forms an association between the animal’s response (behavior) and the stimulus that follows (consequence). For example if you tell your dog to sit, he does it and then you reward him with a treat every time. The dog will soon learn that by acting out this behavior when you say the command he will get a treat for a reward. By seeking out a trainer that is knowledgeable about both forms of training, you will begin to understand how both the classical and operant training techniques can work for you and your dog. To do this successfully, start by finding a training center that will help you teach your dog to work with you instead of making the dog work for you. Choosing a training centre based on convenience or best price can easily end up doing more harm than good. Working with a qualified trainer can help you work with issues that you may not even be aware of. Often, dogs that do not attend quality training classes can develop behavioral problems. These problems will not only cost time and money to resolve, but in fact all too often could cost the dog its life. Local rescue groups and shelters are full of dogs that have not had adequate training, if any at all. Usually, given a little time these behaviors can be addressed. So many of these untrained dogs could have avoided rescue shelters if only a small amount of research had been done by the owners. Finding a qualified trainer to help you is not always easy. You will need to call several training centres and gather information about the credentials of the trainers instructing at that facility. How long have they been instructing? Where did they learn how to train dogs? Do they continue their education? If they do, where do they do it? Do they belong to any professional associations? Are they certified? Take the time to stop in and view the facility, is it clean? Are the employees friendly? Ask if you can sit in and watch part of a class.
housands of years ago, wolves survived in the wild and lived in packs fearful of humans. Our ancestors found the benefit of taming these wild animals and now we have what we know today as our domesticated dog. Pack behaviors still exist instinctively in domesticated puppies regardless of age or breed. In order for us to successfully train our pet dogs, we humans need to learn to understand dog language and how they see things rather than expecting the dog to just understand us. Let us say someone told you to sit in a foreign language and you did not respond. Then the person yelled it repeatedly -you still would not know what they wanted you to do – regardless of how loud or often they said it. Our language is foreign to our dogs, so how can we expect them to understand us? By learning to communicate effectively, we start living in unison. In human families, we have parents and the children who learn from them. Siblings will fight with each other, and parents (being alpha role models) will exert their influence in order to maintain control within the household. The questions that remain are how you will successfully be able to add your new dog into the family and what happens when you do not do this properly. One of the many problems that arise with our dogs is when families fail to understand where their dog fits within their hierarchy. Quite often the dog becomes the one that continued page 7 is in control of the household. Think about that for a minute. Do you have (Second Chance Animal Rescue Society) that scenario in your home? Does your dog choose to www.scarscare.org do what he wants, when and where he wants? If so, Pretty good looking for a it is likely that your dog has mature guy wouldn’t you say? control over you. My name is Chubbs. Sadly, How do we change this? I’ve been with SCARS for over All dogs have individual a year now and really don’t personalities just as we know why, maybe my age. I humans do, and they will am about 8 years old but I’m also learn differently just as still full of fun and love. I am we do. Dogs and most other such a friendly guy and I am mammals learn in many good with most dogs, still not different ways – instinct, sure on the cat thing though. observation, mimicry, I am a medium sized possibly Shepherd cross. I love toys and am very good at not wrecking Ball anyone??? If you love to play ball them, having no front teeth and love the big guys I am the one for may have something to do you. I am such a gentle boy and I am with that! All I want is a family so good. My foster mom thinks I’m just all to myself. My foster mom thinks I deserve only the best. Please help me find the home great, but she does think I need a home I deserve and let me know if you are the family I’ve been waiting for. with someone who will play ball since it is really what I love to do. I am a Shepherd cross and I am already vaccinated and Hi, my name is Dodge. Wanna hear my neutered. story? My foster mom wants to let everyone If you have an active home that I could know that I wasn’t named that because I be a part of I’d sure like to hear from you. can’t dodge or because a Dodge truck hit Will ya call...will ya...will ya!! me; in fact, the vets who looked after me named me. You see, before I found SCARS I was homless. I was out wandering, looking for food when WHAM a truck hit me. It Hi my name is Darla and it seems I’m hurt! I thought that the truck would stop and the only girl in the group this time. help me, but they kept on driving!! As I had Although there’s lots of us at SCARS. I a broken pelvis and a broken leg I couldn’t am what they call a special needs girl, move and all I could do was lie in the ditch meaning I am looking for a special and hope that soon someone would help home. I came into SCARS very beaten me. But, nobody did!! Hundreds of cars passed and all I could do is stare after them. up and one of my wounds was on by I waited for what seemed like years (but was probably only days) when finally a kind butt to put it nicely. SCARS took me to a stranger found me and brought me to SCARS! And, now I am warm and well fed; after specialist and there is nothing they can two surgeries I do have pins in my leg but I am good as new. Next I hear that I will be do to fix it. So my little problem is, I have finding my forever home…the thought of my very own family makes the memories of my limited control on when I poop. Yes it’s suffering really diminish. In fact, it really has been a great new year for me!! This doggy not pleasent but it’s really not as bad as hotel is the best! However, my very own family would be even better. XOXOXO Dodge. it sounds. I do however need an outdoor home, one that will still provide the For more information on the adoption of SCARS rescues, warmths of living inside and the attention I so enjoy. I get so excited to see my foster mom I run in circles. If you think you can over please call 220-1201 - Edmonton. look my little flaw then I may consider over looking all of yours.
SCARS
We look forward to taking your call.
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pet rescue magazine - April 07
Take A Walk In Their Paws
Oldies But Goodies
continued from page 6
continued from page 5
Ask what the maximum number of dogs per class is and compare that to the space they are training in – is it big enough to allow your dog their own space? Families should also be welcome to attend classes, after all your pet will learn faster if everyone in your home has an understanding of the program and is doing the same things with him/her. We look to qualified hair stylists for our hair cuts and qualified mechanics to service our vehicles …don’t trust just anyone to help you with your training needs. Use the same kind of vigilance when it comes to training your dog. Remember you’re paying for this and you, your family and your dog will reap the benefits if it’s done right. So why not hire the best trainer you can find?
Is your aging pet on a senior wellness program? This should include: • a complete rundown of the pet’s medical, surgical, vaccination, dietary, behavioral and travel histories • a complete physical exam, including an orthopedic assessment, a blood pressure test and an eye exam, along with blood and urine analysis • possible additional tests depending on these findings.
If you have a question concerning the behaviour of your pet, mail them to Pet Rescue Magazine: Take A Walk In Their Paws, Box 37099, 8712-150 Street, Edmonton, AB T5R 1EO or send an email to rescuemag@shaw.ca
SNAP
(Spay Neuter Action Program)
The Purrfect Adoptees www.spayneuteractionprogram.ca My name is JUBE JUBE! I am a beautiful 1 year old spayed female. I am the brown tabby , the gray guy just thinks he is my boyfriend. I am a very sweet , gentle cat. I love to play with my rubber lizards...yes rubber lizards!! I also like to sit and watch the world outside. Do you have a window ledge I can sit on? Hello, My name is Cameron, I am a 6 year old neutered male. I was saved from the freezing cold in Winterburn Industrial Park. I am a very laid back relaxed guy and all I want in the world is to go to my forever home. If you’re interested me I can be seen at the westend PetsMart, located at 9934-170 Street or call 780-968-0025.
Yes, I’m a bit of a fraidy cat, but it’s not my fault. Life hasn’t been too good so far. I was rescued from a rural pound where I was on death row. Thankgoodness for SNAP and thankgoodness that cats have nine lives! I have to say very little is known about my history and I’m not talking. I am very sweet and would love to have a place to call home. I am a medium haired male. If you think that I would make a nice addition to your family, please call (780) 968-0025. Heard about a horse with no name?? Well I’m the kitten with no name. I am a 5 month old neutered male, I was born outside with my two other brothers. A nice man took us in until SNAP had room for us in a foster home. Now that we are in foster care, we are happy and play with toys and we enjoy our breakfast of canned food. We also have fun chasing our foster mom’s slippers all over the room. If you would like to cuddle me furrrever then I’d be a nice addition to your family, please call 780 968 0025 or come and see me and my friends at the westend PetsMart on Saturdays.
Hello, my name is Rozz. I’m an older gal but I’m not dead yet. Come on people my foster mom says she hopes to have as much energy as me when she is my age. I am good with cats love kids and totally believe age is dominance - so other dogs best respect it. If you’ve got a cuddle for me, pleeeezzze contact PARS.
pet rescue magazine - April 07
Ok all you kitty lovers out there, my name is Shane but I should be called Nintendo as I love to watch my people play video games. It’s so much fun pawing the controller! I am a long haired male, approximately 1 year old. I am so good with children over the age of 10. In my days here at SNAP I have been socialized with other cats but I still do not like dogs. If you think that I would make a nice addition to your family, please call (780) 968-0025. I’m waiting just for you. My name is Alejandro, Allie for short. I am a 3 year old neutered male , and all my shots are up-to-date. I was hit by a car and left for dead on the road. Finally a nice man stopped and checked on me, he rushed me in to the nearest Vet Hospital. The damage to my leg was too serious, the hip and leg had to be removed. I have been in foster care since December 23, 2006 and I am dearly loved here. I have been socialized with other adult cats and large breed dogs. I don’t like the dogs but we have learned to live together in harmony. I command and control all the kitchen activities. I love to watch you cook, and wait for small offerings. I like to sit on your lap and cuddle and sleep with you on your side of the bed. I am very sweet and can not wait to go to my forever home. Hello My Name is Stripes and I am a 7 month old neutered male. I have been dewormed, and my shots are up-to-date. When I arrived in foster care, I was afraid of everything but my foster family have taught me to trust, love, play, and be cuddled. Do you think I would make a nice addition to your family?
Please note SNAP requires that all cats and kittens adopted from them must remain indoor pets only. For information on any of our cats please call
780-968-0025
PARS
Prairie Animal Rescue Society www.prairieanimalrescue.org Hi my name is Millie and I’m about 1 year old. Well it’s a mystery I’m still here because I am such a lovely girl. I am great with kids and cats but tend not to like small dogs. However, we all have our issues! I am working on house manners and my ideal home would have a comfy couch. I do have some herding instincts but that’s because I want to keep my family together. I’ve had a bad start to my life but I’m ready to be loved and cuddled for the rest of it.
Pet owners are critical to successful senior wellness assessment. Changes in water consumption, appetite, body weight, amount of activity, skin masses and especially behaviour are often signs that your pet isn’t well. Senior patients often require drug treatment for the management of their diseases. However, aging affects the absorption, distribution, transformation and elimination of most drugs, so seniors need special consideration. Drug dosages may need to be adjusted – or even avoided altogether – depending on circumstances. Prevention and early detection of health problems, along with timely intervention, can lengthen and improve the quality of a pet’s life. Only you, the pet owner, are empowered to make this happen.
the fact is:
A female cat may have three to seven kittens every four months. This is why population control using neutering and spaying is so important.
Child’s Play
continued from page 1 She’d also like to be an actor and a writer. Her own stories, under the title Pet Heroes, are “fiction with facts.” The stories revolve around a dear departed cat, which Morgan spent most of her waking and sleeping moments with when she was younger. The kitty appears in many of her toddler photos. But cats aren’t quite her favourite animal. In fact “dog, dog, dog” were very among Morgan’s first words. “I feel bad for all the dogs that aren’t treated well,” Morgan says. “I wish they all had a good home.” She’ll no doubt keep finding ways to help make the world a better place for animals. But for now, there’s a little payback on the horizon. Morgan has committed her talents to some upcoming productions – put on by the actors who helped make hers so successful. For more information about Wallace, other pets that need a good home, and the Second Chance Animal Rescue Society, visit www.scarscare.org. Hey there! Roger here, AKA Rodgy Dodgy. Look at me, I’m LOVABLE, house trained and cute. I adore the kids and follow them everywhere. I need to work on cat manners but they’re just so darn easy to bug! I am medium size and 10 months old, my foster mom can’t say enough good things about me. I’m just that special.
We have many more dogs, please visit our site and find a treasure trove of love just waiting to go home. 7
MISTY CREEK DOG RESCUE Hey there! Max is the name and escaping is my game! I was surrendered because I just would not stick around home. I think I would like a very active home with lots of company of both the two and four legged variety! I may even be a dog park kind of guy! I am a very friendly Border Collie crossed with something extra special. I am only two years old and already neutered. If you want handsome, happy and forever, I’m your man!
Watch next month for a whole lot of unconditional love from the fol owing organizations
For more information on any of the Misty Creek residents visit
www.mistycreekdogrescue.com Hi everyone! My name is Jester, and just as my name suggests, I am a clown! I am about 1 year old and of mixed origin. I love to cuddle on the couch and snack on veggies with my favorite humans, and running around the house is quite exciting! Whoever adopts me will have to have me neutered as apparently, humans don’t like it when I spray…but I don’t mind! I am eager to please! My adoption fee is $20.00 and includes a water bottle, food dish, and a small bag of hay. Hello, my name is Watcher and I am a Plumed Basilisk, but people often call me the “Jesus Lizard” due to my talent of running on water for short distances! Nobody is knows of my gender yet, because I’m still too young to be sure, but I will get big! Male Plumed Basilisks can grow up to 3 feet (mostly tail) and develop large ornamental raised caudal and dorsal fins. Females reach sizes of up to 2.5 feet and lack the ornamental fins. We love water and need a large pool to swim in, plenty of branches and foliage, and most of all, a lot of space! I won’t be happy unless you can provide me with a mansion of at least 5’x 2’x 4’ in dimension. I am quite the sprinter and don’t like to be handled, and I must admit, I’m not afraid to bite…but, I’ve been told that I am a beautiful animal and very rewarding to keep! If you are interested in adopting me, my adoption fee is $40.00 and includes some of my favorite silk/plastic plants.
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News and Events around our City
April 21 ~ Second Chance Animal Rescue Society is holding their 2nd Annual Tails On The Trails Dog Walk and BBQ at Lions Park, St. Albert. Registration for participating in the walk is from 11am to 2pm. Pledge forms can be requested by emailing Jan at tjpysyk@shaw.ca. Come on down and celebrate SCARS 5th anniversary reunion. They’re sure to WOOF IT UP!! Watch for dates and information on: SHARES 2nd Annual Fur Ball Silent Auction SCARS Canines & Cocktails Silent Auction Avenue Goes To The Dogs
Small, sweet, shy, special... everyone tells me I’m all of that and so much more! My name is Makwa & I am 6 years young and only 45lbs. I can be a little shy at first but once I know your safe all I want to do is cuddle and be close. I absolutely love to give hugs as you can see and I am already spayed and ready to go. All I need now is a loving family to take me home forever! Hi my name is Hobo and that’s because I’m looking for my forever home. I am a 9 month old Heeler x Brittney Spaniel. At least that is what the vet says I look like a big Jack Russell, maybe crossed with some heeler to me. I was rescued from an abusive situation where I was not being fed and was being beaten. A kind person took me away from that and fed me and gave me love. I haven’t let the bad things that have happened to me get me down. All I need now is a new loving home.
Here’s The Poop!
Tails From Home WRITE TO WIN This is a special place for younger readers to write and tell us all about their pet(s). Watch to see if your story or poem is published! This very special peom was submitted by Brittany Waselenchuk
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The McDonald Family Rescue (780) 452-1744
www.themcdonaldrescue.co.nr Howdy! Are you looking for a few new friends? My brothers and I would love to come live with you; Degus can make the best of friends! We are very active, curious, outgoing and we just love to come out of our cage and run around. We’ve been told we’re very fun to watch, and that we sound like squirrels… whatever those are! We would love to be adopted together as a group, but wouldn’t mind being separated into pairs if necessary! Our adoption fee is $15.00 for a pair, or $25.00 for all four! We come with our food dish, a bag of delicious hay, some toys, and small bag of food. Hi, my name is Fanny & I am an African Fat Tailed Gecko! They think I am a girl but no one knows for sure. I am still quite young and only weigh 10 grams! Caring for me is like caring for a Leopard Gecko, I prefer a moist hide at all times and a daily misting just does wonders for my skin! I just finished shedding and my colors grow more vibrant every day. I am very tame and have a healthy appetite. My adoption fee is 60.00 and includes a small under tank heating pad, plastic plants, a decorative rock/cliff, a small bag of moss, and a water dish.
Will somebody ever rescue me? I need somebody so I can be free. All I do is live here in the cold, When all I really want is for someone to hold. It’s so very scary here, living all alone, Being scared and to run away from anyone and everything is all I’ve ever known. It hurts to live in fear, it hurts to live in pain, I don’t want to live here anymore, attached to this chain. I just lay here in the cold, wondering, if somebody will rescue me one day? I see somebody, he might be that one! But no it isn’t, just some guy that doesn’t want a stray. I lay here longer, I feel myself drifting off into a cold like sleep, When all the sudden I hear a weep. It was this somebody I have been waiting for all of these years, She sits near me crying her tears. Nobody has ever cried for me, She had said her name was Lee, And she was here to rescue me! I was so happy to have this second chance, That I had to take just another glance. To see for sure, that I will live forever more. I am now in a nice warm home, this Lee, She is now my new Foster Mom I see. A year goes by and I am so happy with glee! Until one day she says it’s time for me to be truly free. I wondered what she meant by that, Until one day, I see a new family for me - they even have a cat. Lee says this is my new forever family and they will take care of me from now on, I start to whimper just a bit as I say good-bye, she says hush now little guy, There is no need to cry. As this is your forever home, and you will be so happy with them, So I leave with them and see what a happy family we will be, I look out the back car window, and I see. That special somebody who rescued me! © Brittany Waselenchuk - age 15 Write to us at PET RESCUE MAGAZINE Box 37099, 8712-150 Street, Edmonton, AB T5R 1EO email: rescuemag@shaw.ca
Please subject “Tails From Home” pet rescue magazine - April 07