Cover Model: My name is Buxley the Beagle!
I am a small, 3yr old, neutered male and I’ve been in foster care for 3 months now. I am housetrained, great on walks and I know how to sit, lie down, jump, and come when called. I prefer not to be alone at night…but that’s kind of a perk as I‘m a master foot warmer at bedtime. Not a big fan of kennels but I’ll settle in (with just a little protest!) for a few hours to allow you time to go buy me more chew sticks. I love my rawhides and love to discover unique hiding places to keep them safe (I thought the photocopier was a brilliant idea!!!). I enjoy the company of other dogs if they’re not too bossy, and cats, while not my preference, are acceptable. I will be right here waiting patiently until my new family finds me…but I hope it’s soon - that silly cat is staring at me again! Please call 780-637-0999. 0r visit www.beaglepaws.com.
Lap It Up! Happy PAWlidays! We are so pleased to be sharing this season with you and hopefully helping some of these rescues find their way home in time for the holidays. Please remember the rescue groups while we are all enjoying this season of giving. There are so many ways to help rescue efforts...volunteer to help give a regular volunteer a holiday by fostering, walking a dog or cleaning some cages. Donate supplies or old blankets to keep the animals warm in 2008 or just write a letter of support to the people who work so hard to bring it all together and make it happen. You would be surprised at what it can mean for many of these hardworking and selfless volunteers. You may notice we are missing a couple of our regular columns this month due to space constraints, but they will return in the New Year along with plenty of new features! Watch in 2008 for new PRM developments, including an expansion in size, distribution and rescue group coverage. The expansion will make room for new articles, more rescue groups, a children’s section and much, much more! We have been absolutely delighted with the requests for subscriptions and look forward to introducing this option in the New Year as well. We will also be presenting a segment for Southern Alberta rescue groups in 2008, so if you know of one you would like to see get more exposure, please let us know or tell them to contact Pet Rescue Magazine. Best wishes to you and your family over the holidays and into 2008. The Pet Rescue Team We really appreciate your comments and feedback.Please feel free to email us directly at rescuemag@shaw.ca
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pet rescue magazine
December 2007
local stories...local people...local pets
Pet Rescue Magazine Alberta Owned & Operated
Brought to you by the Pet Rescue Team Publisher J. Hunter Contributing Writers Erin Gunderson, DVM Rachel Sentes, Publicist 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 1E0 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 Alberta. Deadline for submissions is 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.
In this issue FEATURES
Moonshine Mutt ~ Humane Animal Rescue Team.....................................3 Tails From Home............................................................................................3 Tails of the Month - Book Review...............................................................4 This season..What’s holding your dog back?.............................................6 Pet Rescue Magazine’s Top 10 Gift Ideas......................................................6 Feature: Ho Ho Home...for the holidays................................................................8/9 An Apple A Day ~ Facts on Ferrets..............................................................11 RESCUE ORGANIZATIONS Safe Haven Animal Rescue Edmonton Society (SHARES)....................................4 Edmonton Humane Society (EHS)....................................................................5 Northern Alberta Society for Animal Protection (NASAP).....................................5 Humane Animal Rescue Team (HART)..............................................................7 Hinton & District SPCA.................................................................................10 Alberta Ferret Society (AFS)...........................................................................11 Second Chance Animal Rescue Society (SCARS).............................................12 Prairie Animal Rescue Society (PARS)..........................................................13 Chinook Winds Greyhound Rescue.......................................................14 Spay Neuter Action Program (SNAP.)............................................................16
December Moonshine Mutt
Tails From Home This is a special place for readers to tell us all about their pet(s). Watch to see if your story, poem or drawing is published. This Christmas painting was submitted by Sheena Rasmussen.
hart animal rescue team
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.
Finally Free Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in whole or part without prior written consent of publisher is prohibited. Finally Free Publishing is an incorporated company.
Mail your submission to
Pet Rescue Magazine Box 37099, 8712-150 Street, Edmonton, AB T5R 1E0 PET PROMISE
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. local stories...local people...local pets
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
HI everyone, my name is Cadet!!! Thank you for looking at my profile, and wanting to learn more about me. Now let’s see what can I tell you about myself? I am around 1yr old and still very much a puppy. I LOVE to play, especially tug-owar. I love attention and my foster mom keeps telling me what a good boy I am and how I learn things very quickly. She is very impressed with how I am adapting to life in a house, although she does get upset when I chase the cats…but I am a dog after all, isn’t that what we’re supposed to do? I love being on the couch with my foster parents watching this thing called a TV, it is really neat! I am great on leash, quite handsome and smart; I just need a chance to prove myself. See page 7 for contact information.
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Safe Haven Animal Rescue Team (SHARES)
Tail of the Month
Rachel Sentes Book Review
Rating: The Monks of New SketeDivine Canine: The Monks’ Way to a Happy, Obedient Dog Divine Canine is the latest book from the Monks of New Skete, an Eastern Orthodox community in Cambridge New York. For over 35 years, they have been breeding and training dogs with excellent results. They are so highly revered by trainers, that they were recently inducted into the International Association of Canine Professionals, as honorary professional members. If you have read The Art of Raising a Puppy, or How to be Your Dog’s Best Friend, you will come away with an even stronger sense of how devoted this Brother Christopher and his brothers are to strengthening the bond between dog and owner. Beautifully photographed with eloquent text, this book will guide you gently through basic obedience commands that can help to solve problems with barking, jumping, aggression, and attention seeking issues. Informative sections with “What If” tips and Q & A’s divide the book and expand your area of expertise. In our increasingly busy lives, we often forget to slow down, and enjoy what our dogs offer. Divine Canine reminds us “Training dogs is about building a relationship that is based on respect and love and understanding.” If you follow the New Skete way, your success in training is assured. Rachel Sentes is a local Publicist and avid dog lover. 4
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Cinderella! Cinderella! They are always telling me what to do... Cinderella sit...Cinderella come... Cinderella look cute ...don’t pee there Cinderella! Geez, there’s just no pleasing anyone these days! I was found hanging out under a pine tree with my 8 siblings by a very kind lady. We are around 9 weeks old and all named after fairytales because we deserve happy endings. I think I’m named Cinderella because everyone likes to boss me around and my left hind foot is white like I have lost my shoe. If you can give me a lifelong fairytale ending please call me...sooner rather than later people or I’ll turn into a pumpkin or something! My name is Ariel and I am one of Cinderella’s sisters, SHARES thinks I deserve a happy ending too! I will grow into a large girl one day and I am looking for a wonderful family to take me to the lake in the summer and teach me to swim. My new family should also be prepared to give me lots of exercise, plenty of belly rubs, solid basic training, hours of cuddle time and toys galore! In turn I will remind you to smile, give you unconditional love, a lifetime of entertainment, holes in your socks and underwear and a reason to buy more shoes! My name is Alice (as in Wonderland) and I am a fairytale waiting to happen! I guess I am looking for a fairytale like ‘Alice In Edmonton’... sure is better than “Alice Under The Pine Tree”, that’s where my 8 siblings and I were found. I came with Cinderella and Ariel and we are around 9 weeks old. I am a sweet girl, but as with any puppy, I will require training, love and lots of patience to be the best dog I can be. Can you make my fairytale come true?
December 2007
...hi..my name is Danali. I’m just a petite girl around 35lbs and only 2ft tall. I love people and get along wonderfully with other dogs. I am a calm and loving girl who deserves a very special home. I sleep quietly in my crate at night (although I surely deserve a spot on the bed!) and want only to please my people. If you think I might be the right girl for you please call SHARES and ask for the sweetheart with the super gentle eyes and soft personality! Captain Chester here...at your service! I am a large, friendly boy ready to please... especially for cheese –or any other treat really. I am fabulous with other dogs and great with children. I am a kind soul looking for a forever family who appreciates just how wonderful I am. I am quiet in my crate at night and love to be outside for playtime and walks. One thing though...I am a little too preoccupied with the family budgies, so I’m probably not good with pocket pets in general...who wouldn’t think they were lovely little moving chew toys? Here I come!!! My name is Hobo and I am a 1yr old Shep X. I came to SHARES after I was hit on the road and left in the ditch. I am missing a bit of my tail and have a bit of a limp on my left hind leg but otherwise I’m good as gold –some say better! I have been great with my foster Mom’s cat and I’m working hard on that leash thing...seriously what is the deal with that? Hard to get used to being guided around by my neck but I’m such a good boy I will master it soon. I am great at the “offleash” park, play well with all the other dogs and come when called. I would do fine on my own but having a doggie companion in my new home would be a bonus!
Call (780) 707-5753 to learn more about these wonderful pets visit
www.sharesrescue.com
local stories...local people...local pets
Emonton Humane Society Special Pets In Need (SPIN) Howdy! Bingo here! I am a 4yr old, Pitbull X. I am considered a restricted breed within the City of Edmonton so there are additional license fees, control restrictions and insurance required to own a special boy like me. I’m well worth the extra trouble though because I am the whole package -smart, fuzzy, love to learn and live to please! I am searching for a home without felines, canines or children under 16yrs. All I really want is to sit at your feet, walk by your side, and be your devoted companion forever! My name is Rosie and I am a young, active, Australian Cattle Dog X who just wants to have fun! I am a charming lass who, ever the performer, loves to show off when playing with my toys. I jump high and run fast; this makes me an excellent contender for dog sports such as Agility, Disc Dogs, and Flyball. To see my playful nature, please visit the EHS Facebook page at www.facebook.com or come down to the shelter for a visit! Everyone calls me Velvet. I’m a gorgeous, sweet, housebroken, belly-scratchloving, 5yr old, Labrador Retriever X! I am not comfortable with the thought of another dog being in control and would prefer to be an ‘only’ dog, in an adult only home. If you think you could love me forever come on down to meet me, or visit the EHS page at www. facebook.com.
Please visit the EHS site at edmontonhumanesociety.com Or call Adoptions at
Northern Alberta Society For Animal Protection (NASAP) If you’re looking for a cute lap size ball of fluff then look no further. My name is Muffin and my foster mom tells me I have lots of spunk, whatever that is. She says I resemble the energiser bunny doing “fast laps” and 360’s around the house... I just love life so much I can’t help myself!!! Although I have energy to burn, I sleep peacefully in my crate at night and always do my business outside. I’m pretty small so I use caution around other dogs but once I get to know them I’m in for some fun. All I need now is a forever family who will love me as much as I will love them. I need to be neutered so that is priority number one when I do find my new family.
Hey there my name is Cherry and I am 5 months old and already spayed! I don’t believe in hanging around, I really want to get on with life ... all I need is my forever home and then I’ll be all set. I love people and am friends with everyone. I have buckets of energy and, if I say so myself, I am highly intelligent. I just can’t wait for somebody to take me home and make me a part of their family. I want to go for lots of long walks, learn lots of new things and meet lots of new dogs and people - I’m ready to get out there and party so please don’t pass me by!
Hi my name is Pepper and I am a 2yr old Shih Tzu X who was unclaimed at the pound and then given to NASAP to find a new home. I am housetrained, well mannered and prefer to be in the presence of people as much as possible. I am also great with other dogs. I like to play and go for walks, but most of all I enjoy quietly hanging around my people or catching up on my dognaps! I am very sweet and don’t ask for much except to be loved and reassured that I am safe. If you are looking for a loyal companion who is very gentle and easy going, then I might be the one for you! I am a Kuvasz who is enjoying the finer things in life for the first time ever! My name is Sophia and before I came to NASAP I had a pretty rough time. My coat was so matted and filthy that I had to be completely shaved! I never knew I could smell so good and look so white! I am not a puppy but I’m certainly not over the hill either. I am hoping that there is somebody out there who knows and understands my breed that will want to give me a new life. I am a good girl, I get along fine with other dogs of all shapes and sizes and I am un-demanding and quite easy going. I have already shown my Kuvasz colours to my foster home and do like to patrol the boundaries of my new temporary home and give a few deep barks after dark to warn off the baddies! If you would like to know more about the kind of forever home I will need please, please, please call NASAP and ask to talk to my foster mom.
www.nasap.ca (780) 922-0250
(780) 491-3500 local stories...local people...local pets
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This holiday season what’s holding your dog back? by Rachel Sentes Publicist and Contributing Writer
“I can’t describe the horror of helplessly spinning around and around and seeing my dog actually flying out onto the road.” so states driver M. ‘NorthWolf’ Brown after being broadsided by a SUV. His border collie suffered a hip injury that left him wondering if she would ever walk again. ”If you’re worried about the cost of quality harnesses...well, $60-$70 dollars is NOTHING compared to the vet bills I am paying, not to mention the pain of seeing my best friend suffer because of my mistake.” In Alberta, winter brings with it icy roads, blowing snow, and nervous drivers. Buckling up has become second nature to us, and we certainly wouldn’t forget to strap in our children. Why then is car safety for pets an afterthought? We go out and spend hundreds of dollars on high quality foods, beds, fashions and toys for them, but we don’t spend $30.00 on car safety. There are several key reasons to buckle up your pet. 1. Impact- If you hit a car or slam on the brakes everything that isn’t restrained goes flying toward the windshield. This can be deadly for you and the dog. 2. Distraction- Cell phones, food, drinks, cds, laptops, and a bouncing dog. Distractions cause accidents. 3. Emergencies- A dog that has been in an accident will be in shock, or injured. The dog may attack rescue personnel or
others who may be trying to help. Danger can be minimized by having a properly restrained dog. 4. Control- If your dog is in a seat belt, he can’t jump out the window or run into the street when you open the door, and that’s safe for everyone. I often speak with dog owners who have amazing stories of their rescue dogs that were saved from abuse and abandonment. I would like to think that they aren’t putting their dogs in harms way again by letting them jump around unrestrained in their cars. Dogs aren’t missing anything by being buckled down in their seats. There are even booster seats available now for those small little dogs who like to look out the window. Not all dogs take to a seatbelt readily- or eagerly, but it’s like anything else, you do it enough times, treat enough times and they will adapt. If for some reason, you can’t strap your dog down, then consider adding in a barrier to block them from flying into the front seat, or use a crate in the back. Anything is better than just letting them ride free in the car. This Christmas consider giving the gift of life to your dog, and buckle up!
Top Holiday
Wellness Pure Rewards Dog Treats Earthbath Shampoos & Conditioners
Gifts For Your Pets Available at your local Tailblazers Store Deluxe Saftey Seat Belt
Tecnika Canine Equipment Dog Coat
Zogoflex huck & Zisc Toys Air Dog Squeaky Balls & Doggie Hoots Toys Tuffies Sea Creature, Karlie Action Soccer Ball, and Tuffzilla toy
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Zanies Cat Toys Rockin’ Mice
December 2007
Simons Cat Tickler
local stories...local people...local pets
Humane Animal Rescue Team (HART) Hello, my name is Mandy and I am a very lucky girl. When I was found outside of Edmonton, by a friend of hart’s, I was due to have my pups in two weeks. There are 8 of them and boy-oh-boy it’s been a lot of work and it’s time for everyone to find their new homes –including me! Some say mellow is the best way to describe me, but I do love my long walks. My perfect day would be to snuggle up to a loved one and watch TV on the couch. My foster parents believe me to be a Collie X, and always comment on my beautiful, soft coat. I am 4yrs old and have lived a tough life. Even though I was on my own for so long, I am learning my basic commands quickly. I am smart, pretty low maintenance and don’t make much noise. I am just hoping you will want to relax, cuddle and hang out with me. Mowgli here, my mom is Mandy and I have so many brothers and sisters that are looking for homes. Their names are Baloo, Lady, Nemo, Pumba, Scamp, Timon and Zazoo. We are all pretty young to be getting our own personal biographies so I thought I’d just speak for the group. We are all growing fast and we’re showing our own little personalities and quirks. We are all in need of individual foster homes to teach us the basics so that we can blossom in permanent, loving homes. If you are interested in fostering or adopting one of us please contact hart at their new number (780) 455-4278
Koda’s my name and running’s my game…but then again, so is fetch, tugo-war and chase! I’m a 1yr old Collie/Shep X. People say that my combination of youth and breed make me a high drive dog, but all that means is that I have a lot of love to give and like to learn new things. I am completely housetrained, very social with people and I have a great fondness for squeaky toys and can play for hours! I can’t wait to find a special person or family to run and play with! Are you the one for me?
Hi! I’m Delilah and I am a 1yr old (and a bit) Lab/Collie X. I may look small, but I am full of energy and have a lot of love to give. I LOVE playing with anything squeaky, fetching the ball and especially playing tug-o-war with my rope. I also like to swim, camp and go on long walks. I am learning all my basic commands and catch on quickly, so I am for sure going to be the smartest pup around. I am house trained and get along great with my fellow foster siblings. I hope to find a young active family that is willing to cuddle me and scratch behind my ears on a daily basis.
For more info on us and our friends see
www.humaneanimalrescueteam.ca or call (780) 455-4278
Picture Your Pet In Paint
Congratulations Charlene Pisani Winner of our Picture Your Pet In Paint
Winning Painting
local stories...local people...local pets
Pet Rescue Magazine would like to say a big thank you to Edmonton artist Sarah Nadhazi for donating an original water colour of the winning photograph for our photography contest Picture Your Pet In Paint (September issue). Please visit www. sarahnadhazi.com or check out The Barket Place for more information. pet rescue magazine
December 2007
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HO HO HOME
for the the holidays
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hese are some of the animals featured in Pet Rescue Magazine over the last few months that have moved on to join their new families, for a second chance at life. Warmest Wishes to our rescue organizations and their valuable volunteers for their tireless efforts in helping to save these animals. Congratulations to the new families that found the love and room in their hearts and homes to adopt these treasures. We, at Pet Rescue Magazine, want to wish everyone a Safe and Happy Holiday Season. Let’s make 2008 a Responsible Pet Guardian year. Please spay, neuter, identify and license your pets, their lives could depend on it!
Hinton & District SPCA Are you an athlete? Check out my muscles! My name is Bailey. I’m only 40 lbs but I’m a 1 yr old, All Canadian mixed breed, sweet, big, albeit sometimes a little shy, loving girl! I like to play all kinds of games and definitely need my daily walk. In fact, I get so excited to go out; children aren’t able to hold onto me very well so I might need some extra help to calm me down. I hear those Gentle Leaders would be handy just to give me a little direction. Please think of me the next time you go for a run or walk on your own. Wouldn’t it be way more fun for the two of us to go together? Hello! My name is Belle and I am a smart, 1yr old, Shep X who absolutely LOVES kids! Because I have so much energy, I need a family who can keep me safe in a nice big yard- with a tall fence. If you like to play games, run or walk everyday, snuggle in bed, and teach me new things, you will have a super time with me. Right now, I’m a little skinny, and need to be fed good nutritional food, and then I’ll probably be about 65-70lbs. I can’t wait to have some kids to call my very own because I have LOTS of love to give!
I love everyone and I’ll dance to prove it! My name is Jasmine and I’ve been told I’m a graceful, very smart, playful girl who really likes to eat! I’m a 1yr old 45lb Australian Shep/Husky X who LOVES to bounce and play, so I’m looking for a family to enjoy the outdoors with me. I wouldn’t mind a nice fenced yard as well. Are you the dance partner I’m looking for? Let’s Rumba! Greetings! As you can tell by my smile, I am ready to go! I am everything in a gorgeous big dog that you’ve always wanted. I’m pretty, sweet, smart and extremely well mannered. My name is Molly. I am a 5yr old, 80lb, spayed Akita X and I LOVE children, so much so that I HAVE to sleep inside to keep everyone safe and sound. I’d prefer it if I didn’t have to share my love with little dogs, I really only like the occasional boy, so it is probably best that you share tummy rubs and kisses with just me. I do like to keep busy, so a nice fence and lots of running and playing would be good, otherwise I might use my intelligence to get into trouble! I would like the next photograph I’m in to have you smiling with me!
Come to where there‛s mountains of love www.hintonspca.com or call (780) 865-2800
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Do you have a rubber squeaky toy? I LOVE those! Especially ducks! I love them even more than other dogs, so I’m looking for a nice family to play with just me. My name is Nevada and I’m a 2yr old, spayed Malamute/Golden Retriever with lots of love and fur to wrap your arms around! As you can see, I’m a big girl, about 100 lbs, and strong, so when we go for a walk or run, I might need a little help. I heard those Gentle Leaders work not too badly until I can get used to our daily routine. I’m so excited at the thought of those toys- come and get me! Hellooo There! We are Coon Hounds and we would love to sniff out a new family! I’m Sandy (on the right) and Dewy is my brother, we are a couple of goofy 10 month old pups who didn’t get to meet many dogs growing up, so we’re a little shy. We are true to our breed, so if we get on the trail of something cool, we might not hear you call every time, so off leash isn’t the best place for us- we wouldn’t want to get lost! It sure would be great if we could find a family with a little experience, some patience and sensitivity- oh and a nice warm house, we have short coats so we can’t be left outside long in cold temperatures. So if you want to cuddle with two great boys who are willing to learn and eager to please, then come and get us!
local stories...local people...local pets
Alberta Ferret Society (AFS)
just as happy being packed around and cuddled. Ellie, has two loves in her life. One is me, ‘The Count’ and the other is stashing pretty much anything she can get her sweet little paws on. She’s not much for cuddling up with people but who can blame her when she has me to cuddle up to! Ellie can be a bit nippy at times too –but don’t tell her I said so! She likes to see people’s reactions when she tries to climb up the inside of their pant legs..so much so it has become a favorite pass-time of hers. If you’re interested in giving us a home, please remember that we’re so much in love we should go together!
My name is Piper and when I first came to the AFS I was pretty nervous and very scared. Since then I have settled in well, made lots of new friends in my foster home and I am now a big handsome loveable hunk of fuzzy calm! I am looking for a forever home with people who will be patient and accepting of my occasional “love nips” while playing. I am approximately 3yrs old and I would make a great single ferret, but I also love to make new friends and will cuddle my way into any ferret gang! My name is Rosco and I’ve been with the AFS for a long time. I am very much a people ferret and gentle even when I’m playing. My favorite game is chase and if you are wearing socks I will capture your foot by gently putting my mouth on your big toe. I also love when you throw balls or stuffies so I can chase them down and then stash them away! By the way...I don’t care much for other ferrets, I much prefer my people all to myself! local stories...local people...local pets
Hello! My name is Sheri and this is my buddy Uri. I am about 1yr old and Uri is just a bit younger –guess that makes me the boss! We are quite gentle and get along well with the children in our foster home... although Uri does delight in leaving his little mark on our foster Dad’s nose if it gets close enough for him to grab hee hee!
Facts on
Ferrets
My name is Count Chockula and I am about as lovable as a ferret can get! I have lots of energy and enjoy playtime but I’m
An Apple A Day
Erin Gunderson, DVM
Dr. Gunderson is a practicing veterinarian at Whitemud Creek Veterinary Clinic, Edmonton
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Everyone calls me Dorry but my real name is Isadora. I am a bundle of energy and become a wiggle worm, impossible to keep a hold of, if you try and keep me still too long...I am just way too busy for that! I am deaf but everyone says that means very little and it does not hold me back at all. I am a joy to have around and so full of life I am sure to be a ton of fun! My name is Baby and I am 4 months old...which makes me the boss over Jed who is only 3months right? We came with some
other ferrets but have bonded so well we would like to find a family to share. We are both cute as can be and being babies are naturally full of energy and the curiosity that comes with being a ferret. Along with the serious lifetime commitment of adoption comes a lifetime of entertainment and smiles!!!
To become a member, get information about surrendering, adopting or fostering, please contact the AFS toll free at 1-877-FERRET-0, in the Edmonton area at (780) 447-3336 or visit their website, http://www. albertaferretsociety.com/.
he main historical use of the domestic ferret, Mustela putorius furo, was hunting rabbits. Today, they are common house pets, so it is important to understand their basic needs and commonly acquired problems so they may have a long and happy life. Ferrets have an average lifespan of 7-9 years and may sleep up to 20 hours per day. They are very inquisitive and playful animals and will get into everything possible, so it is important to ferret-proof your home. Ferrets also like to dig, so furniturelovers beware! Declawing ferrets is not humane since they use them for walking. Declawing will change their posture dramatically, causing life-long problems. Ferrets need a high protein (~30-40%), high fat (~18-20%) and low fibre (<4%) diet. This means they should be provided with a high quality ferret or kitten food. Ferrets with an inadequate diet often have poor hair coats and are predisposed to medical problems such as urinary stones. Food should be available at all times since ferrets usually eat every couple of hours. Ample fresh water should also be available since they require it to metabolize the high protein diet.
Vaccines
Your new ferret should see a veterinarian for a physical examination annually to check their health, discuss appropriate care, husbandry, and receive important annual vaccines. Ferrets are very susceptible to distemper, which is almost always a fatal disease and although rabies is a rare disease in ferrets,
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Second Chance Animal Rescue Society (SCARS) Jade here, I’m 10 weeks old and more than ready for my forever family. I already know how to sit on command! I am already showing a little dominance but I’m quickly learning to be more tolerant of others’ opinions! I love all of the cats, dogs and people that I’ve met so far. Give me a belly rub and I’m your friend forever! I enjoy sitting on the deck and chewing on sticks... I’m pretty easy to entertain! Please call (780) 967-3492 –but not after 9 pm please I need my beautiful puppy sleep! Are you busy looking at all of us who need homes? Well look no more... here I am. My name is Della and all I want is to follow you around, go for walks, have a warm place to sleep, eat good grub and most of all have lots of attention. I am a friendly, larger girl and do require my exercise. I just want my forever home to find me! Please call (780) 675-3018.
Don’t you just love me..don’t ya, don’t ya? Hello there, everyone calls me Fin and when I came into SCARS my skin was an absolute mess! Despite my infected skin, which is now much better I’m glad to say, I am a happy boy and love people. I’m a pretty young guy looking for a committed family to love me forever. If you think that could be you please call (780) 462-8482.
In Loving Memory of our dear Snowflake Eight years ago, Snowflake took up residence on our front doorstep and quickly moved into our hearts. She brought much joy into our lives and into the lives of our large family of previously stray cats. Eventually, she needed help to jump up on the lazy-boy chair where she joined us for breakfast every morning during those eight years, so we bought her some soft furry stairs which she loved to use. At the end of August of this year, our dear little Snowflake sadly succumed to heart failure. She is very much missed by all of us.
This page is dedicated in the loving memory of our dear Snowflake. May all the rescues on this page find good loving homes. June & Walter 12
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Talk about Scruffy Puppy!!! My name is Angus and I was found as a stray in a small rural community. I’m just a baby, but I had been wondering around on my own for awhile and no one wanted take care of or help me! My poor little body was not only starving but covered with sores....OUCH!!! Thankfully I am now getting medical care, lots of meals and have gained 3lbs in just over a week that’s BIG news for a tiny pup in my condition! As you can see I have also made it clear to the cat’s toys who is boss...this little mouse will never mess with me again! Although I can’t go to a new home quite yet I am still on the lookout for a future match. Please call (780) 637-0999 if you think you might be special enough to be considered for a sweet little guy like me! Lets start with saying I am a wonderful lady and I am great with kids, people and other dogs. My name is Dawn and I’m also super smart too!! My foster mom says if they were all like me it would just be too easy. I am great on and off leash, travel well and weigh about 65lbs. I’m an easy going girl who loves attention, so give me a call at (780) 462-8482. I am a Shep X named Buzz...and I am such a nice guy! I want nothing more then to make you happy and I’m very well behaved...in fact, my foster mom can not think of anything wrong with me!!! I am a little shy at first but that does not last long. I love going for quad rides, long walks, playing or just watching my foster mom work in the yard. I have been good with other dogs, but no idea about those cat thingies yet. For more information on my handsome face please call (780) 675-3018. My name is Sunny and I am, as my foster mom says, AMAZING! I am a gentle, loving, Shep X. Sadly, I was shot in the leg and left with no medical attention... by the time SCARS got me, my leg was so damaged it could not be saved. I am also missing part of my tail and it looks like another dog bit off the tip of one of my ears. Surprisingly, none of this has affected my sweet disposition. I am regaining my strength after my leg amputation and it takes a lot out of me but I improve every day. Sometimes, on walks, I have to stop and lean up against my foster mom for pets and encouragement, but they have had many 3-leggers come through and say I will be running circles around all of you 2-leggers very soon! Don’t be too sad for me, life has only improved and SCARS says it’s all downhill from here...besides I’m a real trooper! I am good in the car, house trained and will master the stairs soon. My Foster Mom says I have the courage of a champion and the soul of an angel. Please call (780) 675-3018.
Visit many more of our friends at
www.scarscare.org
local stories...local people...local pets
Prairie Animal Rescue (PARS) The name’s Corky, and I’m a haywire, little, wire-haired guy! I am about 1yr old and a little bit of a gong show, but in a very loveable kind of way. I am good with cats and other dogs. I may be a bit jumpy for small kids, but I am only about 30 pounds, so they can probably handle it. Call me!
Hey, do I ever have a story to tell! My name is Dell and PARS heard that I was left behind by former renters. The new renters said I was a dominant dog and they were scared of me, so PARS agreed to let them bring me in, even though they were not sure I would be able to be adopted....then they met me. Let’s just say it’s not the first time PARS has been told a silly ‘story’ at a dog’s expense. I am the sweetest, calmest, most loveable little boy around! They could not even put me in with pups my size as I wouldn’t stand up for myself! I am rooming with a smaller litter of pups and I am so gentle with them and my people that PARS knows the first story was a bit of a farce. I need a little work on my kitty skills, but I listen GREAT and have a wonderful personality. I am a 6 month old Shep X and I plan on being a big boy when I’m all grown up!
Howdy folks, it’s me Dreyfus! I am the dark handsome one on the left and I am about 3yrs old. Donald Duck (aka Ducky) is the fellow on the right using me as a pillow and he is 1.5yrs old. We are both very friendly with other dogs (as I’m sure you can already tell!) and cats don’t seem to phase us either. I can be a little jumpy for the tinier two-leggers but Ducky here is pretty good even around the tiny people! Girly Girl Digger here! I am part of the puppy mischief gang. No, I do not dig yet as we are all only 7 weeks old, but we were named after lots of funny puppy mischief activities. We are supposed to be Blue Heeler-Pyrenees X, but I would say we also have some Border Collie and Shepherd mixed in as well - a spectacular combination, if I do say so myself!
To learn more about us and our friends www.prairieanimalrescue.org
or call (780) 536-3868
She’s more than just a cute puppy. She’s a growing responsibility. Are you prepared to care for her for her lifetime? Do you know the local pet regulations? Help her to be a long term and welcome citizen in your community. Call Animal Control Services at 780-496-3100 for information or visit www.edmonton.ca/bylaw.
local stories...local people...local pets
pet rescue magazine
December 2007
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blood glucose. This is life-threatening. You may notice weakness, severe lethargy, excessive salivation, chomping of the mouth, and may culminate in seizure activity. Please seek veterinary care IMMEDIATELY. You may apply honey or corn syrup to your ferret’s gums, but be very careful of biting, especially if they are seizuring.
Ferrets continued from page 11
the vaccination is especially important for legal reasons should your ferret bite someone. Vaccine reactions are rare and usually occur within 20-30 minutes. Please seek veterinary care if you notice vomiting, diarrhea, extreme lethargy, or difficulties breathing.
Routine Surgeries
All female ferrets should be spayed (ideally between 4-6 months old) to prevent life-threatening diseases. However, most ferret breeding farms have this procedure done at 6 weeks of age before adoption takes place. Male ferrets should be neutered (ideally between 4-6 months old) to decrease the incidence of aggressive behaviour and urine marking. It also significantly reduces the offensive odour from their skin glands. Ferrets have anal glands that contain a very foul-smelling fluid. They are not the cause of the musky smell of ferrets, but are usually removed anyways prior to adoption to prevent expression.
Please, before considering a ferret for a pet, take the time to properly research their care, habits and needs. Many ferrets are adopted by those who do not have a basic understanding of ferret husbandry and unfortunately it is often the animal that pays the price.
Your future will look brighter in January
Pet Rescue Horoscopes
Coming Soon
Common Medical Emergencies
Foreign Bodies: Given the opportunity, ferrets often eat things they shouldn’t, which can cause obstructions of their stomach and intestines. This is lifethreatening and often requires surgery to remove the foreign object. Ferrets rarely vomit with this problem, instead they are lethargic and may have a decreased appetite. Adrenal Disease: Ferrets tend to develop an overproduction of sex hormones from their adrenal glands. You may notice hair loss, an increase in sexual or dominant behaviour, and skin changes. Females may develop a swollen vulva and males may begin straining to urinate due to an enlarged prostate gland. This disease can become life-threatening in males if their prostate enlarges, causing an obstruction of their urinary tract (urethra). Your ferret should see a veterinarian immediately if he is straining to urinate. Insulinoma: This is a tumor of the pancreas of older ferrets that causes excessive secretion of insulin, which results in LOW 14
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December 2007
Chinook Winds Greyhound Rescue All the people I meet say I’m a real Angel— maybe that’s how I got my name I love it when people tell me I’m “greyt”, and I try very hard to make everyone proud of me. I love play time and a good romp in a fenced area, but I’m also happy snoozing on a warm, comfy bed. I ran in over 100 races, but now I’m ready to race into your heart. Wow, did I ever have a long trip to get to Alberta! I’m a Galgo, which is a sight hound mix, and I’ve come all the way from Spain. Alberta is such a nice place. I’ve met lots of dogs, who I love to play with, and the people have been so great to me, giving me yummy treats and awesome belly rubs. I’m still learning about my new world, but my foster mom says I’m smart as a whip. You can learn even more about me and Galgos at http://chinookwindsgreyhounds.org/specialhounds.htm. Could I be your special hound? Hi, my name is Hottie. I grew up on a greyhound farm and raised a litter of puppies, but now I’m looking for a human family to call my own. I’m really friendly with everyone I meet, and all the people who see me say I’m beautiful. I love exploring my new world by going for walks, but I’m also very content to snooze at the feet of someone who loves me. Do you have a cushy dog pillow I could curl up on?
To check the status of these dogs and to view other available dogs visit www.chinookwindsgreyhounds.org/dogs.htm local stories...local people...local pets
Pet Boarding
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local stories...local people...local pets
pet rescue magazine
December 2007
15
snap
Spay Neuter Action Program
It’s true… pets are not usually a good idea for gifts but that doesn’t mean we can’t get into the holiday spirit! My name is Noel…and I’m a lot of holiday hoopla looking for a good home! SNAP picked me up, with my brothers and sisters, from the Parkland Pound where we had been dropped off by a kind lady who found us while tearing down an old barn. My family has all been adopted but me. I’m about 10 weeks old, have been vet checked, neutered, and have my first set of shots. I am a large breed dog. If you have room in your home and heart to adopt me on a ‘forever’ basis, I would be so eternally grateful.
Scooter is what they call me and I’m just the nicest little pound boy! I am only 1yr old and I get along with other cats. Though I’m timid in nature, I love to be pet and cuddled. I need a gentle and understanding person to take me home and love me forever and ever…could that be you? I am the sweetest little kitty you’d ever like to meet. I’m a 1yr old female and I was rescued from the pound by the SNAP crew. I have a quiet, loving disposition and get along with other cats and kids. Please call and arrange to meet me, I promise you won’t be disappointed.
I came to SNAP last June and please don’t get me wrong, I am just thrilled that I was rescued. Regular meals, a warm bed and nice people –this place is heaven! The only thing that could make life sweeter is a permanent home. I have been very patient, but I’m nearly 2yrs old now and have spent so much of my life waiting to find my own family. I get along with other cats, small dogs and children, have a great personality and everyone tells me I’m the most handsome and clever little fellow…why am I still here?
Georgie here. I’m 1.5yrs old and everyone says I’m a big friendly giant who is very sweet. I may be a big boy but I am very frightened and I am hoping to find a quiet family so I can regain my secure feeling and live life to the fullest. Please come to meet me soon!
For information on our animals call (780) 968-0025 or (780) 444-2382 www.spayneuteractionprogram.ca
Friends Of Ferals Help...we are the feral cats of SNAP and we need warm barn homes. Please, please if you have such a home we’d be more than interested.
We are spayed /neutered, vaccinated and free to approved barn homes!