October 2015: HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

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October 2015

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Pets In The City Magazine

Pets In The City Magazine |

October 2015

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Event Calendar

PUBLISHER PICM Publishing, LLC

October 2 & 3 What When

NKUT Super Adoption Friday, 12 – 7 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Where Utah State Fairgrounds, 155 N. 1000 W., Salt Lake City Info nkut.org/events Free admission and parking.

October 12 What

Photography of Chris Dickinson/Utah’s Ranch Life When October 12 – December 11, Where Main Library Downtown, Lower Level, 810 400 S., Salt Lake City Info chrisdickinsonphotography.com

October 24 & 25 October 21 What When

Bark-tober Fest Wednesday, October 21, 4 – 7 p.m.

Where Wheeler Farm, 6351 S. 900 E., Salt Lake City Info www.wheelerfarm.com Halloween Doggie Costume Contest.

What Strut Your Mutt When Saturday, October 24 Where Liberty Park, 600 E. 900 S., Salt Lake City Info strutyourmutt.org

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Pets In The City Magazine

4 EVENT CALENDAR 6 STETSON LAUNCHES THE 8 PAWPARAZZI FILM FESTIVAL 2016 EXPERT ADVICE Anxiety in Pets - Jessica Zelnick, DVM Halloween Dangers - Avery Young, DVM Nutrition in Pet Birds - Douglas Folland, 14 NABVP (Avian) ANIMALS IN THE NEWS 16 - Mona Mistric 18 RESCUE ME A HOWLING GOOD TIME - Kim Justen 20 ANIMAL GHOST STORIES - Jennafer Martin 22 THE YELLOW DOG PROJECT - Sarah Tyler 24 KEEPING KITTIES BUSY IN APARTMENTS - April A. Northstrom 26 STRUTT YOUR MUTT - Temma Martin

Wasatch Reptile Expo Saturday, October 24, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Where Utah State Fairpark, 155 N. 1000 W., Salt Lake City Info wasatchreptileexpo.com 435-840-2068

October 31 What

October 24

TABLE of CONTENTS

What When

Howl-O-Ween Dog Party on Main Street When Saturday, October 31, 5 – 6 p.m.

Where Park City Historic Main Street Info historicparkcityutah.com People & dogs in costumes.

28 DO’S AND DON’TS OF REPTILE HABITATS - Lance Weeks 30 YOUR PETS IN THE CITY PHOTOS 31 FAMILY FUN - Chatty Catty - Animal Ghost Stories - Fill in the Blank - October Pet Holidays 31 MADAME TABU’S HOROSCOPE

By the time you read this, the leaves will be in full fall and I will be a wee bit cranky about having to rake them all. After twentysome years of raking, I’m over it. I grew up in Northern California, surrounded by cement and evergreens. At the time I didn’t realize just how wonderful that was!

When not raking, Cassie and I will be enjoying brisk morning walks. Dobies are single-coat dogs, which means when they walk outside, it’s like they’re naked. If it’s hot for me, it’s hot for her, and if it’s cold, you get the idea. So she and I have limited opportunities to enjoy walks without both of us bundled up in jackets or dying from the heat.

But October is the perfect month for long walks and hikes with our dogs. So, when you’re not planning your dog’s Halloween costume for one of the many pet parties planned this month, or writing your script for your PAWPARAZZI entry, take some time to enjoy the fantastic weather this month!

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Last Month’s Issue

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kim Justen MANAGING EDITOR Deborah Myers STAFF WRITERS Tonya Landon Jennafer Martin Mona Mistric April A. Northstrom Sarah Tyler CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Douglas Folland, NABVP (Avian) Temma Martin Avery Young, DVM Jessica Zelnick, DVM GUEST WRITERS Lance Weeks STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Chris Dickinson CIRCULATION Shane Myers, Circulation Manager, City Weekly Distribution Smith’s Grocery Store Racks GRAPHIC DESIGNER Michelle Bellinger All illustrations created by Mashiara Graphics. Copyrighted 2015.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

And if you have to rake piles of leaves like I do, take some time to jump in them and have leaf fights with your kids –human and furry! If we have to do it, we might as well have fun while we rake.

Cover photo: Chris Dickinson

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Genevieve Campbell

HAPPY HALLOWEEN, EVERYONE!

SALES & ADVERTISING Beverly Egleston Sharon Stephenson Deborah Myers 801.702.1171 info@petsinthecitymagazine.com

www.petsinthecitymagazine.com PICM Disclaimer: All reader submissions and photos are voluntarily submitted without expectation of compensation.

All opinions of the authors in this Magazine are those of the writer or contributor and are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. The publisher has not confirmed the accuracy of information contained in the articles. PICM reserves the right to edit, alter, or modify the submitted article to the extent in which we deem necessary.

A RESCUE PLEA: Pets In The City Magazine is dedicated to and encourages rescuing companion animals of all types. There are thousands of animals in Utah and across our nation needing a forever home. If you are interested in rescuing a companion animal, there are over 100 animal rescues in Utah. A good resource is petfinder.com, a nationwide database for companion animals of all types.

A rescued animal can be rewarding and lead to a forever grateful love.

Pets In The City Magazine © 2015 is an independent, free monthly magazine published by PICM Publishing. For information regarding Pets in the City Magazine, visit www.petsinthecitymagazine.com Any and all articles in Pets in the City Magazine are submitted for reading enjoyment only. Please consult a professional and make wise personal decisions regarding health and safety issues of pets and family.

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Stetson launches the PAWPARAZZI Film Festival 2016

Tonya Landon

Pets in the City Magazine’s

PAWPARAZZI All Species Invited

Q. Dear Stetson, I would like to enter Pets in the City Magazine’s PAWPARAZZI Film Festival this year. My film is about a bearded dragon, is this Film Festival only about dogs and cats? I am slightly intimidated to submit my film because I’m a beginner and this will be my very first festival entry. I want to tell everyone how my bearded dragon has changed my life. Also, is this the same festival as PetDance? Andrew A. Andrew, thank you for asking. Last year, our festival name was PetDance, but it is being re-launched as PAWPARAZZI Film Festival going forward. Like PetDance, PAWPARAZZI is an international film festival, open to amateurs and professionals alike. PAWPARAZZI Film Festival is for all species, do not be intimidated to enter your bearded dragon film, just go for it!

When I was a young dog, I was scared to act in my first movie, but the director helped me gain the confidence I needed, and now I’m the Robert Redford of PAWPARAZZI Film Festival! Let me take away all your fears right now with the following information in 5 easy steps. #1 PRODUCE YOUR FILM. Choose a category, write your script and start filming. Use a digital movie camera or even a cell phone. Find a friend to help with the editing or do it yourself, get a professional sound booth to work with you on voice overs or do it yourself on your computer.

The categories are: • Drama • Comedy • Animation

• Documentary/Advocacy • Youth

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Pets In The City Magazine

#2 ENTER PAWPARAZZI FILM FESTIVAL. All entries must be postmarked on or before December 20, 2015. The submission fee is $25. filmfreeway.com/festival/ PAWPARAZZIfilmfestival. #3 ENTRIES MUST CONFORM to the rating standard of PG or lower. To submit in the Youth category (under 18), you must have a parent sign the entry form as well. No limit is imposed on the number of entries, but each film will require its own entry fee and entry form. Everything you need to know is posted on petsinthecitymagazine.com. #4 UPLOAD YOUR FILM onto filmfreeway.com/festival/pawparazzifilmfestival. If the film is in a language other than English, it must be subtitled or dubbed in English.

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#5 PLAN TO ATTEND THE FESTIVAL by plane, train, or automobile. It’s going to be held at the Megaplex Theatres Gateway, 165 South Rio Grande St., downtown Salt Lake City. The PAWPARAZZI Film Festival opens at 10 a.m., on Saturday, January 23, 2016.

That’s it! Pretty easy, right?

ADVANCED VETERINARY CARE

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Pioneering Fun & Healthy stuff for Canines & Felines in Utah since 1996

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Pioneering Fun & Healthy stuff for Canines & Felines in Utah since 1996

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EXPERT ADVICE

ANXIETY IN PETS Jessica Zelnick, DVM We may not think about it, but animals can suffer from anxiety just like we do. Unfortunately, if you haven’t dealt with a pet with anxiety issues in the past, you may not recognize the signs. It can look to owners as if their once normal pet has become the biggest problem in the house. But once you know what to look for, there are plenty of ways to help your pet deal with their anxiety.

CANINE ANXIETY Dogs can suffer from several types of anxieties. The most common form of anxiety in dogs is separation anxiety. Other anxieties are usually due to noise phobias, such as thunderstorms or fireworks. Dogs with these anxieties may hide, tremble, vocalize, pace or cause destruction.

Pets In The City Magazine

Separation anxiety occurs when a dog becomes overly attached to a family member. They become anxious when separated from the owner and exhibit behaviors such as vocalization, panting, salivation, destruction, house-soiling or inactivity when the owner is away. Behaviors generally occur within the first 20-30 minutes after separation. Therefore, the best way to prevent and treat separation anxiety is to desensitize the dog to departures.

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Habituation, counter-conditioning, and planning are methods used to desensitize the dog to the departure. Departure clues, such as picking up keys or putting on a coat or shoes can instigate anxiety that the owner is leaving. Repeating these acts without leaving can desensitize the dog to the impending departure. Counter-conditioning by training the dog to sit or lay in a certain place, or distraction through

a toy or a treat, can also aid in reducing stress associated with the departure. The dog should be exercised and relaxed prior to the owner’s departure and initial departures should be short (1-5 minutes).

Reducing separation anxiety is primarily accomplished through behavioral modification training. Professional dog trainers are available for in-home dog training to help at the source of the problem. Behavioral modification training is successful when started early and is consistent.

Punishment for unwanted behaviors will only make anxiety worse. Dogs learn quickly from a consistent routine and the focus of behavioral modification training is on the departure and return of the owner.

Anti-anxiety medications are prescribed when training alone is not successful. The use of medication may decrease symptoms while behavioral training is implemented. The goal of medication is not to sedate the dog, but to decrease the anxiety surrounding the departure and help the dog relax. A combination of medications is often prescribed to help with short and long-term anxiety.

FELINE ANXIETY In general, cats do not suffer from anxiety the same way dogs do. Stress is more commonly the form of anxiety cats suffer from. Stress can lead to inappropriate behaviors and/or medical conditions.

Stress may be brought about by a new environment or a change in environment (such as moving or traveling), a new household pet (canine or feline), a new human addition to the household, and new neighbors or sounds outside that are displeasing to the cat.

Cats may show their stress by acting out for attention.

Most often, cats may urinate inappropriately on furniture or clothes to obtain attention.

Aggression or reclusiveness may also develop. Vomiting, excessive self-grooming, and/ or excessive vocalization may result. Competition between household cats for food

may result in obesity due to stress eating and reduced activity.

There are different treatment options for decreasing stressful environments for cats.

Environment enrichment can help reduce stress and medications are available if stress is severe. Examples of environmental enrichment include: instigating playtime, devoting time for extra attention, and adding three-dimensional spaces, such as a cat tree or boxes to hide in. Feline pheromones are commonly used to decrease stress. They are sold as sprays and diffusers.

If simple behavioral enrichment strategies do not decrease the cat’s behaviors, it is important to seek medical attention to ensure the cat is not suffering from a medical condition first. Anti-anxiety medications are commonly prescribed to decrease a cat’s stress level and reduce undesirable behaviors.

Cystitis (inflammation of the urinary bladder), is a common medical condition of both male and female cats. Cystitis in male cats can progress to a life-threatening urinary blockage. Stress has been indicated as a cause of cystitis. If a cat is diagnosed with cystitis, or urinary blockage, anti-anxiety medication is commonly prescribed, in conjunction with other treatments, to prevent reoccurrence of cystitis.

Helping your pet learn to cope with their issues takes time, love and dedication. The good news is, most animals respond favorably to one of the treatments listed above, and you’ll be building a stronger bond with your furry friend as you help them become comfortable with the changes in their world that caused the anxiety.

Dr. Zelnik has been a practicing veterinarian in the Salt Lake valley since 2009. She practices at the University Veterinary Hospital and Diagnostic Center. She has received advanced training in dentistry, soft tissue surgery, and pain management. Dr. Zelnik enjoys running and hiking with her dogs: Kami, a Boxer, and Jake, a Schnauzer mix.

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EXPERT ADVICE

HALLOWEEN DANGERS:

CAN CHOCOLATE TREATS HARM YOUR PET? Avery Young, DVM

Halloween is right around the corner, and that brings all kinds of goodies our human children love. However, these chocolate covered treats pose a serious risk for our dog and cat family members.

Chocolate contains two compounds called theobromine and caffeine. These compounds, even in very small quantities, are poisonous to dogs and cats. When ingested they cause symptoms of agitation and nervousness.

Pets In The City Magazine

WHAT SIGNS SHOULD I LOOK FOR WITH CHOCOLATE TOXICITY?

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Clinical signs of chocolate toxicosis usually occur within 6 – 12 hours of ingestion. The common signs of chocolate poisoning are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased urination, and restlessness. These can progress to cardiac arrhythmias, epileptic seizures, increased heart and respiratory rates, and in some cases, death.

HOW MUCH CHOCOLATE DOES MY DOG NEED TO CONSUME FOR TOXIC EFFECTS?

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The amount of chocolate that can be harmful to your pet depends on several factors including the type of chocolate, the amount ingested, and the size of your pet. A milk chocolate bar is less toxic than the same dose of baker’s chocolate. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, baker’s chocolate of approximately 0.02 ounce per pound of a dog’s body weight is sufficient to cause symptoms of toxicity. One ounce of milk chocolate per pound of body weight is a potentially lethal dose in dogs. For example, a 10-pound dog could ingest an ounce of dark or baking chocolate and could have lethal effects whereas the same dog could consume an ounce of milk chocolate and only have mild signs. Larger dogs can tolerate more chocolate than your smaller dogs.

MY DOG ATE CHOCOLATE! WHAT SHOULD MY NEXT STEPS BE TO HELP MY PET? If your pet has consumed any chocolate or candy treat, call your regular veterinarian or emergency clinic for advice immediately. Your veterinarian may recommend inducing vomiting at home or recommend bringing the pet into the clinic to induce vomiting under the supervision of trained professionals.

Another option in the case of chocolate ingestion is calling the animal poison control hotline. The ASPCA’s pet poison hotline is (888) 426-4435.

Veterinarians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help owners determine whether they need to take their pet to the vet immediately in cases of toxin ingestion. There is a nominal fee for these calls but these trained professionals are extremely knowledgeable and can tell you what to expect based on what and how much of any given substance your pet consumed.

In any case of chocolate ingestion, the worst thing to do is to try and wait it out when you know they have eaten it. It is always better to be safe and contact your veterinarian or poison control hotline as soon as possible after ingestion.

Please remember to keep your children’s Halloween goodies out of reach and out of sight when you have your pets out in the house. We all love our pets dressed in costumes and taking part of the festivities of Halloween, but this does not mean they need to indulge in any of the Halloween sweets! So be safe this Halloween season and keep your furry loved ones out of the plastic pumpkins.

Dr. Avery Young is the new associate veterinarian at Salt Lake Veterinary Services and the newly owned Mountain Vale Veterinary Clinic in Taylorsville. When not in the clinic, she enjoys biking and hiking in the mountains with her two dogs, Nutmeg and the three-legged Suki. Dr. Young is excited to be back in Utah serving the Salt Lake valley pet population.

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EXPERT ADVICE

NUTRITION IN PET BIRDS Keeping your flock healthy

SUGGESTED FOODS FOR DIFFERENT AVIAN SPECIES BIRD FOOD Harrison’s Bird Diet or Lafeber’s

WHOLE GRAINS Spelt, oat groats, barley, steel-cut oats, wheat berry, buckwheat, flax seeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds

FRESH COLORFUL VEGGIES Jalapeno peppers, bell peppers, banana peppers, Serrano peppers, yams, sweet potatoes, broccoli, squash, zucchini, cucumber, pumpkin, bean sprouts, snow peas and snap peas

DARK LEAFY GREENS Douglas Folland, NVM, NABVP (Avian) The most commonly misunderstood aspect of pet bird care is nutrition, and every day at our veterinary practice we see dismal conditions due to poor diet.

There are some basic reasons why nutrition continues to be such a common problem. Many hold on to traditional, outdated nutritional ideas. Feed companies persist in producing nutritionally deficient diets, and pet stores continue to stock and recommend these diets.

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A seed mix, even if it contains pellets and dehydrated fruit, seldom provides balanced nutrition. When offered a diet like this, birds pick and choose to eat what they like best, and they rarely pick the foods that provide a balanced diet. They are much like a child given the choice of spinach or ice cream to eat. We all know what the outcome of that would be.

Another contributing factor is the reluctance of birds to change their established, preferred eating habits. Even if the owner provides a good diet, there is no guarantee the bird will eat it. To convert a bird to a better diet takes time and persistence. The owner needs to train the bird to eat the right foods.

There are many species of birds kept as pets, and the diet for each varies. A baseline recommendation would be: at least 50% (or up to 75%) high-quality pellets such as Harrison’s Bird Diet or Lafeber’s; 25% low-fat grains; 20% dark green and yellow vegetables; 5% highly colored fruits. A bird eating this diet needs no additional vitamin supplementation.

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I recommend a visit to an avian veterinarian to get more specific recommendations on nutrition for your particular species of bird. He or she can also help with the transition to the new diet. Additionally, a complete physical exam, lab work, and perhaps radiographs (x-rays) can help detect underlying health problems, which may require further modification of the diet. Birds are masters at concealing underlying disease conditions.

Often these can only be detected with lab work and x-rays.

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Proper nutrition is the key for birds to live long and healthy lives, so it is well worth the effort to help your bird eat right!

Dr. Folland is owner and chief veterinarian at Parrish Creek Veterinary Clinic, serving Davis County.

He is board certified as an avian specialist by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. At home, his family lives with chickens and a dog. His pet snake, Bob, and bird, Buckwheat, live at the clinic.

Kale, collard greens, mustard greens, turnip greens, chard, and endive

HERBS Dill, parsley, basil, chives and cilantro

BERRIES Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries

FRUITS Figs, kiwi, pomegranate, persimmons, mango, lychee, cactus fruit and passion fruit

NUTS Walnuts, almonds, pine nuts, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts and Brazil nuts

FOODS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR BIRDS Flour-based foods (bread, tortillas, cookies, crackers, etc.), dried fruits, fruit juice, food sweetened with natural or artificial sweeteners, grapes, bananas, citrus fruits, fried foods and fatty animal meat. No raw beans. Cooked beans are acceptable for some large parrots. Grit is not needed for caged pet birds, however, can be beneficial for ground feeding birds eating tough fibrous foods (usually not a concern with pet birds). ABSOLUTELY NO PEANUTS!

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Animals In The News Mona Mistric

NO MORE GAS CHAMBERS AT SANDY CITY’S ANIMAL SERVICES The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) have been working together to pass legislation banning the use of CO gas chambers statewide. Euthanasia by injection (EBI) is the recommended method by major national animal welfare and veterinary organizations, as it minimizes pain, suffering and distress.

EBI is cheaper, faster, safer, and employees have less compassion fatigue, knowing it is better for the animals. Animal shelters and rescue organizations have the same goal – to reduce overpopulation and needless euthanasia in the first place, but when euthanasia is necessary, it should be done in the most humane method possible.

Sandy City resident and American Dog Rescue Founder, Arthur Benjamin, along with a grant from HSU, and an anonymous donor are providing funding to purchase the necessary equipment for the transition. Also, Utah Animal Control Officers Association President, Justin Hatch, invited Sandy City animal control officers to attend EBI training on September 18. The gas chamber at Sandy City’s Animal Services is scheduled to be removed by Dec. 31, 2015. There are less than three dozen animal shelters across the U.S. still using a CO gas chamber for animal euthanasia; seven of them are in Utah. (There were eight, but not anymore!)

MEDICAL POT FOR PETS

Pets In The City Magazine

Now that 23 states have given medical marijuana the green light (recreational use is allowed in another four states and Washington, D.C.), the newest frontier is getting our pets on board with the cannabis revolution.

Biscuits, edibles, and capsules containing cannabis compounds are being marketed as natural pain relievers and anti-inflammatory supplements for pets. Cats like the plant material best, whereas dogs like the edibles. But these products aren’t getting them stoned because they use a component of the hemp called cannabidiol – commonly known as CBD – which is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a high. Most of these treats have very low levels of CBD, so they are much safer than when a cat or dog accidentally eats a human’s marijuana.

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The Animal Poison Control Center gets quite a few marijuana calls and have witnessed many wobbly, drunken pets suffering from consuming too much of their owner’s stash or inhaling the smoke. About twenty-five percent of the pets become extremely agitated, not lethargic. In fact, some pets that get into large amounts need to be put on fluids and have their heart rates monitored.

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved pot for pets – not even in states where medical marijuana is legal – since there is insufficient research on cannabis products for pets. There is no definitive therapeutic dose, causing concern for underdosing or overdosing. Also, as with any medicine, there are side effects to consider. Producers of hemp-based edibles, treats and capsules are limited in how they may advertise their products’ benefits. Veterinarians are not allowed to prescribe cannabis products to their patients. (Although Nevada is currently “debating a bill” that would allow vets to prescribe it to pets.) Please exercise caution, as there is still much to be determined.

OFFICE CATS “WORK” The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) now has an “Office Cat Foster Program” to allow businesses to foster cats. This will give selected cats a life outside of the shelter with the ability to socialize more with people and other animals. They will be in a public location where they will be seen by more people, offering them a better chance at finding their forever homes. They are all spayed/neutered and have their first set of vaccinations. Adoption fees are waived for adult cats and there is a discounted adoption fee for kittens.

Qualified businesses may foster a cat for 30-60 days or longer. All HSU asks is that your office provides food and litter, and promotes the adoption. If desired, businesses can post pictures and adoption information on social media. Office cats may be returned to the HSU shelter at any time to end the program, for exchange, or to complete the adoption process.

Businesses interested in fostering their very own office cat can contact the HSU Foster Department at 801-261-2919 ext. 215 or email bconrad@utahhumane.org.

JERICHO: THE WALLS COME TUMBLING DOWN September was National Service Dog Month and the Animal Farm Foundation (AFF) was busy raising awareness and celebrating the extraordinary work service animals do every day for the people in their care.

Jericho is one of many to graduate from the AFF’s Assistance Dog Training Program. However, unlike most service dogs, Jericho is a pit bull. He had to master a variety of tasks in order to become a Certified Service Dog, including using the phone in case of an emergency.

At the age of 42, Mathew Smith lost the use of his legs in a car accident and now needs assistance with getting in and out of his wheelchair. Jericho helps him with balance, mobility, and retrieving dropped items. Together, the two of them enjoy a very active lifestyle that includes fishing trips on Smith’s boat, four-wheeling excursions, and a recent cruise to Alaska. Like many individuals who’ve gained independence through the help of a service dog, Smith shares a special bond with his companion.

For four years now, AFF has been tearing down the negative public walls about pit bulls by successfully training rescued pit bulls to be service dogs that meet the requirements established by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Jericho is proof that rescued and sheltered pit bulls can perform the same work traditionally reserved for purebred, purpose bred dogs. The program gives independence to people with disabilities while shining a positive light on the value of shelter and pit bull dogs.

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LOOKING FOR LOVE ~RESCUE ME~ ATTICUS

Male / 10 Years Old / Chihuahua mix I am a well-behaved and friendly boy who enjoys the company of people and other animals. I’m looking for a relaxed, quiet forever home where I can spend my days cuddling and hanging out with my family. Call Nuzzles & Co at 435-649-5441 for more information.

BLANCHE

Female / 13 Years Old / Shih Tzu mix

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I’m the kind of girl who will always want to be by your side. If you’re looking for snuggles, I’m the one for you! I’m older, so I need a loving forever family to care for me in my golden years. Call Nuzzles & Co at 435-649-5441 for more information.

ADELE

Female / 4 Years Old / Grey and White Domestic Longhair I’m a sweet and low-key girl who likes to curl up in windowsills and other comfy places to watch the world go by. I’m a little bit introverted, but I still enjoy the company of people I know and love. Call Nuzzles & Co at 435-649-5441 for more information.

NICK

Male / 3 Years Old / Brown Tabby Domestic Shorthair I am a laid back, calm guy who likes to relax – maybe a bit too much! I need a forever family who will spoil me with love and attention, and teach me to play with toys. Given half a chance, I’ll steal your heart. Call Nuzzles & Co at 435-649-5441 for more information.

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A HOWLING GOOD TIME Kim Justen

Halloween is always a great time for children, but in our area there’s plenty of fun for our furry family members as well! It’s the perfect time to get your creative hats on and come up with a costume for your pet. With the photos you’ve all sent over the years, we know you’re more creative than a Dachshund in a hot dog bun costume – although I admit those make me laugh every time I see them.

There are some great places to find wonderful pet costumes, like this “bee-utiful” one! Try shopping our local pet boutiques for unique Halloween costumes.

There are plenty of places you can bring your pet to show off your creativity, and several will offer prizes:

• The annual Bark-tober Fest at Wheeler Farm offers fun for the entire family on Wednesday, October 21, 4 – 7 p.m. Families are invited to come enjoy the mini farmers market with both dog and non-dog related vendors, wagon rides and a costume contest for dogs. Prizes will be awarded.

The entry fee for the costume contest is $10; you can pre-register online at www.wheelerfarm.com.

Throughout October, the farm will also be hosting Pumpkin Days, where families can purchase tickets for the straw bale maze, pumpkin patch and wagon rides. www.wheelerfarm.com • The Utah Dog Park’s Salt Lake Airport facility will host their Halloween open house, October 17, 12 – 3 p.m., with games and prizes for children, bobbing for tennis balls for dogs, pet photography, a costume contest for Best Dressed Dog, food and live entertainment. Tours of the facility are offered throughout the event as well, and they are open that day as usual for boarding and daycare. www.utahdogpark.com; 801-683-3647.

• Finally, everyone is invited to the Howl-O-Ween Dog Party in Historic Park City on Saturday, October 31, 5 – 6 p.m. It’s a one of a kind party for pups in costume. No prizes will be handed out, but you might earn some bragging rights.

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Pets In The City Magazine

• During the last two weeks of October, Healthy Pets Mountain West will be hosting a Halloween costume contest. For those who bring their pets into the store in costume and allow Kris and Bryan to take a picture and put it on their freezer, they’ll receive a $10 off coupon. Healthy Pets Mountain West, 2352 Fort Union Blvd, Cottonwood Heights; 801-944-7353.

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Chris Dickinson Photography

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Animal Ghost Stories Apparitions of animals that were pets, actors, heroes and more are spotted year round Jennafer Martin On a trip to Chicago a few years ago, friends and I boarded an old, refurbished school bus to tour the city’s haunted spots. One stop was an old cemetery, which our tour guide assured us was not only haunted by human spirits but by the spirit of a large, black dog guarding a mausoleum. The tour guide warned us to keep an eye out, explaining in an ominous tone, “The legend says that if you see the dog, you’ll die.” Since I’m still alive to write this, you can tell I didn’t see the dog.

It turns out that dog is one of many animal ghost sightings around the world. These sightings aren’t always ominous, but these animal ghost stories abound, not just at Halloween but year round.

The Hotel Ghost Cat (Eureka Springs, Ark.)

Pets In The City Magazine

Several hotels report ghost sightings of all kinds, but the Crescent Hotel has had numerous reports of the ghost of an orange tabby cat roaming around. The cat, nicknamed Morris because of his resemblance to the cat in the 9 Lives Cat Food commercials, lived in the hotel in the 1970s and 1980s. But long after his death, guests still report seeing his spirit taking walks in the hotel rose garden and lounging in his favorite lobby chair.

The Phantom Bear (London)

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The Tower of London is known historically as a prison and fortress, but part of it served as a royal collection of wild animals during the reign of several monarchs.

Animals of all kinds were gifted to kings and queens, including ostriches, lions, zebras, monkeys, and bears. According to Historic Royal Places, a phantom bear haunts a section called Martin Tower, and a guard who spotted it reportedly died instantly from the shock!

Hero Ghost Dog (Nashville, Tenn.)

More than 50 years ago, a friendly boxer named Preston knocked a young-trick-ortreater out of the way of an oncoming car.

Preston was hit by the car, and although his body was never found, children in that area still report his spirit’s presence in the neighborhood. According to Mother Nature Network, Preston’s spirit watches over trick-ortreaters from oncoming traffic each Halloween, gently bumping kids whenever they step off the sidewalk and onto the road.

Horse Soldier Ghosts (Gettysburg, Penn.)

Various locations in Gettysburg saw thousands of deaths during Civil War battles, and many people often report seeing apparitions of soldiers there. But according to Prairie Ghosts, the ghost of a horse carrying a soldier has been reported trotting through the battlefields, only to disappear right before onlookers’ eyes.

Playful Actor’s Pup Ghost (Los Angeles, Cal.) Los Angeles Pet Cemetery visitors can see the headstones of animal actors and pets of famous actors throughout television and film. Around Halloween, a stop by the grave of Rudolph Valentino’s Great Dane, Kabar, may give you a fun interaction with his spirit: a playful lick. The rest of the year, he’s often spotted taking happy strolls along the cemetery hills.

Mama Cat Ghost at the Capitol (Washington, D.C.) The US Capitol building may not be the home to pets, but that doesn’t stop guards and tourists alike from reporting the spirit of a cat roaming the halls. According to Cloture Club, the paw prints or form of the cat, thought to be a mama cat whose den was destroyed in 1794 during the building’s construction, have been spotted regularly in the basement.

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The Yellow Dog Project Get Yours Today Does your dog need a yellow bandana? You can pick up a free one at any of the following locations: • Heber Valley Animal Shelter • Heber Valley Police Dept.

• TJ Mutt Cuts • Coombs Kennels • B.Y.O.P • Anytime Fitness Paws For Life will also hand them out at their monthly adoption events.

Sarah Tyler

Pets In The City Magazine

Not all dogs are bouncing, bundles of joy, exploding with excitement to meet a stranger on the street, kids, or another dog. Some dogs, much like some people, are more solitary, don’t make friends quickly, or just need some space. Unfortunately, our culture as a whole sees a dog on a walk as free game to interact with.

Many don’t understand the appropriate protocol to ask first, pet second.

Thus, the Yellow Dog Project was born. Its founder, Canadian dog trainer, Tara Palardy, started the movement after finding inspiration from a similar project in Sweden. Currently, the Yellow Dog Project has spread to forty-five countries.

dog owner needs to walk their dog, regardless of the dog’s issues. It isn’t humane to lock a dog in a house and never take her for exercise. Additionally, many dogs are in the process of rehabilitation and need the chance to be in social situations (handled responsibly) like walking in public to rehab successfully.

The second concern of naysayers refers to the legal understanding that an officer can shoot any dog on sight if they need to enter a property for an emergency when there is a “BEWARE OF DOG” sign posted, as it is an admission by the owner that the dog is aggressive.

People worry that if they label their dog as a Yellow Dog, the public will view their animal as a potential threat, thus endangering her.

Though most are thrilled with the idea, there are those who warn against participating. The general argument has two points. The first is that if your dog is unable to be in social situations, then they are too dangerous to have out. My initial response is any responsible

Since TYDP is completely volunteer, it takes a motivated advocate to spread the word. Locally, Amy Francis has taken up the cause and started to publicize the movement in Heber, Utah. She has gotten local animal control on board and has been passing out free

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The general idea is that if you have a dog that needs extra space, whatever the reason, you place a yellow ribbon (or various piece of flare) on her leash or collar.

This alerts others around you to not approach your dog and to allow her some space.

Luckily, the Yellow Dog Project has made it very clear on their site what the Yellow Dog Project is not.

“TYDP is NOT an excuse to avoid proper training.

TYDP is NOT an admittance of guilt or a confession.

TYDP is NOT a waiver of responsibility.” Having this verbiage on their site dispels many of the voiced concerns.

bandanas at various events and farmer’s markets. The cause is dear to her heart as Amy owns a Yellow Dog that becomes anxious and reactive when approached by other canines. Amy says, “TYDP is designed to assist a community in providing its residents and visitors with an even safer and more enjoyable recreational experience with their dogs.”

What could be bad about that? There is finally a chance to shake off the stigma of having a dog with some space needs (whether it be because they’ve just had surgery, were abused, or a bit shy), but for that to happen, TYDP needs to succeed.

Spread the word and volunteer today to make a positive impact. The Yellow Dogs will thank you.

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CRITTER COMFORTS KEEPING KITTIES BUSY IN APARTMENTS April A. Northstrom

Cats love to be homebodies and even those that aren’t at least love to have a home to return to after taking a stroll around the neighborhood. No matter how relaxed they can seem, cat lovers know kitties are susceptible to boredom and enjoy activities that help them stay busy and out of trouble. But, how will you keep one or two or even three indoor felines busy in a small space like an apartment?

Here are some tips and tricks for keeping your furry friends happy indoors without ruining your couches or budget: Cats love a good view! They like to

Pets In The City Magazine

be perched up high and look down on their surroundings, and always love a good nap in the sun. Consider a climbing post that goes from floor to ceiling. It’s a compact way to let them sharpen their claws and get exercise at the same time. Since the post is vertical, it will take up a minimal amount a space.

Installing a padded perch in a window can also give cats extra space to enjoy the sun without adding furniture to already small living quarters.

Introducing new toys and rotating them will provide

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variety to a cat’s toy box. Taking toys away and reintroducing them several days later makes them seem brand new…over and over again. Common household items like elastic hair bands, balled paper, and shoelaces, can all be used to create entertaining toys. Cats love to busy themselves with new textures, light objects and items that have interesting smells.

Consider adding a bit of catnip spray to an old pair of shoes laces for boundless fun. Always

be mindful of what your cat will eat. If they would rather eat the paper or hairband instead of play with it, then it’s probably not a toy for them.

Cats play because it’s their job. It’s how they exercise and show off their personality. Whether they wrestle with you, chase a feather down the hallway or try endlessly to catch flies trapped in the house, they’d rather have something to keep them busy than be bored. Boredom and cats aren’t a good combination in any size space.

Here are a few games most cats can play by themselves in small apartments:

• LARGE CARDBOARD BOXES ON THE FLOOR ARE FUN FOR DIVING IN AND SCRATCHING. • MAKE A SACK OF DURABLE FABRIC (CANVAS) FILLED WITH CATNIP. • GLUE SEVERAL CARDBOARD BOXES TOGETHER AND CUT OUT PEEPHOLES FOR HIDE-AND-SEEK OR A MAZE. • USE OLD SOCKS AS SCENT BALLS. FILL THE SOCKS WITH PING-PONG BALLS AND MARK IT WITH CATNIP OR VANILLA EXTRACT. HIDE THE SOCK AND KEEP YOUR KITTY BUSY LOOKING FOR IT. • LEAVE PING-PONG BALLS IN THE BATHTUB AND LET FELIX PLAY! Cats generally don’t need a lot of room to be happy, but it’s important to provide an enriching space that will keep their minds busy and their paws out of trouble. Keeping them moving indoors is just as important as good nutrition and regular visits to the vet!

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STRUT YOUR MUTT Temma Martin This is a very exciting year as we celebrate Best Friends Animal Society’s 20th annual Strut Your Mutt event in Salt Lake City, bringing together animal lovers and their canine companions to strut for homeless pets. Last year, approximately 2,400 people and their 1,600 dogs came out to strut and raised nearly $190,000.

Strut Your Mutt will be held on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2015. The walk, 5K run and family-friendly doggie festival will be held once again at Liberty Park, 700 E. 900 S. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. The timed 5K, and the 3–mile and 1.5–mile walks begin at 10 a.m., and the festival goes until 2 p.m. This year’s Strut Your Mutt is presented by BOBS from Skechers, and sponsored by Nature’s Variety Instinct, and Mini of Murray.

The festival will feature dozens of pet-friendly vendors and lots of fun familyfriendly activities. Best Friends’ Save Them All tent will offer information about what we do as a national animal welfare organization with the largest no-kill animal sanctuary in the country, and show how we support our network partners who are benefiting from Strut Your Mutt.

Festival activities include a toy making demonstration by Kids4Pets, an agility course by Course A’Lure, and a Paws N Pals tent, where you and your pup can create hand and paw prints in paint on a souvenir canvas. Also, don’t miss the Ruff N Relax tent with Paul Mitchell, PAWdicures from Doggone Perfect, a splash zone, pet psychic, and dog agility demonstrations from Camp Bow Wow.

On the stage, our network partners will feature adoptable dogs, and strutters and their dogs can compete in a variety of talent and costume contests.

The Strut Your Mutt concept is built around a community dog walk, 5K and festival allowing people to raise funds in advance, and then celebrate the collective effort of saving the lives of shelter pets. Additionally, through a virtual Strut Your Mutt Challenge, supporters can raise money to help homeless pets in their own communities or for national programs that help to create sweeping changes for homeless pets everywhere.

Strut Your Mutt began in Salt Lake City in 1996, and is now held in 12 cities from coast to coast. Since 2010, Best Friends has raised more than $5.2 million for its animal welfare partners through Strut Your Mutt. The national goal for 2015 is $2.6 million. Last fall, Best Friends hosted Strut Your Mutt events across the country raising more than $2.2 million in funds benefitting Best Friends and nearly 250 rescue groups and shelters nationwide. Participation at the various events ranged from 300 to 2,500, and a total of more than 13,000 people took part in Strut Your Mutt in 2014.

Best Friends Animal Society provides the infrastructure for the events, but allows local organizations to benefit from funds raised. For many small, grassroots animal welfare organizations, proceeds from Strut Your Mutt provide an important part of the groups’ annual operating funds.

“When Best Friends started its work in 1984, there were approximately 17 million dogs and cats dying annually in shelters nationwide,” said Gregory Castle, chief executive officer of Best Friends Animal Society. “Thanks to the leadership of Best Friends, and the efforts of rescue groups and shelters across the country, today that number is down to an estimated 4 million. The donations raised during Strut Your Mutt are used to fund lifesaving adoption programs and spay/neuter services, so that, ultimately, we impact the number of pets entering and leaving the shelters.

We won’t stop until we save them all.”

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More information is available at strutyourmutt.org/SLC2015.

Temma Martin is a public relations specialist for Best Friends Animal Society, a national animal welfare organization dedicated exclusively to ending the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters. Best Friends runs the nation’s largest no-kill sanctuary for companion animals, as well as programs in partnership with rescue groups and shelters.

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DO’S DO’S AND AND DON’TS DON’TS OF OF REPTILE REPTILE HABITATS HABITATS Lance Weeks When you’re considering acquiring a new reptile, whether it is a lizard, chameleon, snake, monitor, amphibian or one of the many other species, the habitat is the most important item to research and set up properly. Each and every reptile has different needs for their environment, and where you place it in your home can make a difference on the specific supplies you will need. The primary goal of setting up a habitat is creating an environment that is similar to their environment in the wild.

Reptile cages can be constructed from many different materials and come in many different sizes. Enclosures sold at pet stores, whether glass, screened or plastic, have been designed to keep your pet safe, you safe, and offer the right ventilation for the reptile. Placement of the habitat in your home or office should be well thought out. Do not place them by windows, or outside walls, as drafts and direct sunlight may cause health issues.

Since reptiles are cold blooded, every habitat must have a basking area and a cool resting area for thermoregulation. Reptiles require this thermoregulation process for proper digestion of their food, regardless of whether they are carnivores/ insectivores, herbivores, or omnivores.

Lighting, even ambient light, is an essential part of every habitat. Some reptiles (primarily snakes, some geckos and amphibians) only require UVA full spectrum lights, while most reptiles require UVB lighting to simulate actual sunlight to assist in metabolizing calcium. There are various output ranges of UVB light, which means an incorrect bulb can cause sunburn. Ask your pet store sales associate for assistance in determining the best solution.

With all the options available, choosing a substrate material can be quite daunting. There are two or three materials that are best suited to your specific reptile’s needs. Those needs may change over time as your pet grows from a baby to an adult. Don’t provide desert materials, like sand or ground walnut shell, for a tropical species; likewise, don’t provide a moisture retaining substrate for desert reptiles.

Most reptiles like a place to hide for security and require a clean water source every day. Faux plants and décor items are optional but recommended for added security, comfort and making their habitat look pleasant for your viewing. When placing branches,

Remember each reptile is different, so try to replicate its natural environment. By following the basic reptile habitat guidelines and specific needs of your pet, he or she will live a long and healthy life.

Lance Weeks is the owner of Living Safari, a pet store in Sandy, UT that specializes in exotics.

The store has a nocturnal room where you can see some of their nocturnal animals in a moonlit environment. Zilla and Zeara, his pet Tegus, greet visitors at the door.

FROG HABITAT

BEARDED DRAGON HABITAT

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Keeping your reptile hydrated is very important and Utah is a very dry state. Daily misting of the habitat for some reptiles, along with weekly soak baths of most reptiles, will greatly improve the shedding process and their quality of life. Automated misters can be set on a timer to ensure your reptile has the correct humidity.

At Living Safari, we always try to make the habitat interesting and somewhat realistic for our animals. There are substrates specifically manufactured for small animals. Do not use cedar shavings which are very bad for reptiles due to the aromatic oils in the wood. We prefer paper towels or newspaper for baby reptiles, as this provides them with a substrate that is not detrimental to their health and well-being if eaten. Ingestion of other materials (like walnut shell, coco-fiber, sand, pine shavings) may cause impaction and health issues at an early age.

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Pets In The City Magazine

When establishing the environment, always keep lighting and heat pads on the basking side; the cool side is for the water and food dishes. The heat source for basking can be special light bulbs that focus the heat, heat pads, or ceramic heat emitters. Talk to your local reptile professional or enthusiast about which option is best for you. Always use a thermometer or infrared thermometer to be sure the basking and cool side temperatures are each within the appropriate

ranges. If your new pet is not eating, usually it is because the temperatures are not correct.

rock hides and plants, be sure to minimize the likelihood of pinch points or places where the reptile can get caught or trapped between things. Beware of using outdoor wood and or stone décor items as these can harbor parasites or have pesticides on them.

SNAKE HABITAT

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PHOTOS

YOUR PETS IN THE CITY Michonne

Do you want to share a photo of your pet?

Josie

Zeus & Jax

Email your highresolution photo & your pet’s name to info@petsinthecitymagazine.com.

Mya, Nala & Kalia Sky

Ava Mops Madison

Marley Ridley & Maisy

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Miriam

Jimmy

Buckley

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Stoney

Stubby

Madame Tabu’s Horoscope * *

Hey Kids! Chatty Catty here with pet tips for a safe Halloween.

Do not go out alone on Halloween night. Be sure to take Mom or Dad and a flashlight to keep you safe. When you open the door at home to pass out candy keep Mom or Dad nearby. Trick-or-Treaters can be a lot of fun, but when the doorbell rings it can scare your pets. Keep them safe in a separate room. If your pets live outside, make sure they have their special toy to keep them distracted from the costumed trick- ortreaters. Remember Halloween candy is not for Pets!

Enjoy a happy and safe Halloween!

Animal Ghost Stories

FOR YOU AND YOUR PETS OCTOBER 2015 Libra (Sept 23 – Oct 22) Communication can still be tricky this month as Mercury retrograde continues through the 8th, so make sure to have a little extra patience communicating with your pet.

Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21) Think outside the traditional Halloween party box this year and host a pet-and-person soiree, offering prizes for creative and clever costumes!

Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Taurus (Apr 20 – May 20) Take time this month for new adventures. Try a road trip with your pet for fall break or explore new areas of Utah to get out of your routine.

Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21) You and your pet may be more emotional than usual around the full moon on the 27th, so take care to be kind.

Bear

Horse

Morris

Preston

Rudolf Valentino

Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Cancer (Jun 22 – July 22)

Venus in Virgo this month brings about your appreciative side, so show your pet how much you’re grateful for her with a special treat.

This month is a good time to take measures to free your home and pets of pests. Use pet-safe home pest treatments and check your pet for ticks and other common pests.

1. The ghost cat named _______ lives in the Crescent Hotel in Arkansas.

2. What famous actor, _______, buried his Great Dane dog, Kabar, in the Los Angeles Cemetery?

3. _______ was the hero dog in Nashville, Tennessee that lost his own life saving a trick-or-treater.

4. What is the word that describes a ghost, or ghost like person, phantom, specter or spirit? _______ 5. During the civil war in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, a ghost _______ was spotted running with a soldier on his back.

6. There is a legend of a phantom _______ in a section of the prison fortress London Tower‛s, Martin Tower.

Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20) As the wind blows the leaves from the trees and the weather gets colder, invest in a sweater for you and one for your pet to keep you warm – even a matching set!

Leo (July 23 – Aug 22) Keep your, and your pet’s, digestive health strong this month by opting for nutritious options in place of the abundance of Halloween candy and pet treats.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Virgo (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

The weather cooling down doesn’t mean you and your pet need to stay trapped indoors. Bundle up and stay active with a brisk walk or hike.

Be extra patient as your pet sheds her coat, feather or scales for fall – she may be a bit crabby and your home may need a bit more tidying.

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Madam Tabu’s horoscopes are translated through the human pet psychic Jennafer Martin, www.PetInsightsbyJennafer.com.

October 2015

October 1st - 7th - National Walk Your Dog Week October 4th - World Animal Day October 6th - 12th - Animal Welfare Week October 9th - 15th - National Vet Technician Week October 14th - National Pet Obesity Awareness Day October 16th - National Feral Cat Day Late October - National Pit Bull Awareness Day October 29th - National Cat Day

The new moon on October 12 is the perfect time to tackle some reorganizing of your home and pet toys – donate unneeded items to a local shelter or charity.

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October Pet Holidays

Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Pets In The City Magazine

Apparition

This month brings out your desire to learn, so cuddle up with your pet to take an online course or read a book on an interesting topic from the comfort of your couch.

Fill in the blanks using the answer key.

Hint: The answers are in this issue of Pets in the City magazine.