September 2015: Pets in The City Magazine

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Pets In The City Magazine

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September 2015

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Event Calendar

September 10 What When Where Info

Yappy Hour at Pioneer Park 5 – 9 pm Pioneer Park 350 S. 300 W., Salt Lake City For you and your pooch, off leash play, live music, food, and beverages.

September 12 What

Humane Society Utah 55th Birthday Party Celebration When 10 am – 7 pm Where Humane Society 4242 S. 300 W., Murray Info Food and fun festivities all day, tours of the shelter and adoptions specials! All dogs in honor of our 55th will be $55 dollars to adopt. Visit utahhumane.org or call 801-261-2919.

September 18

October 24

What Spay-Ghetti & No Balls When 7:30 – 10:30 pm Where Caputo’s Downtown Market 314 W. 300 S., Salt Lake City Info Dinner Benefit for Utah Faces.

Proceeds go to support spay & neuter programs at Salt Lake County Animal Services.

Email agent@utahfaces.org or call 801-608-0705.

What Strutt Your Mutt When Saturday, October 24th Where Liberty Park 600 E. 900 S., Salt Lake City Info Annual fundraising dog walk; 5K run.

October 2 & 3 What When

NKUT Super Adoption Friday, 12 – 7 pm and Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm Where Utah State Fairgrounds 155 N. 1000 W., Salt Lake City Info Free admission and parking. nkut.org/events

TABLE of CONTENTS

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Pets In The City Magazine

4 EVENT CALENDAR 6 THE TRUTH ABOUT ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICERS - Jennafer Martin 8 EXPERT ADVICE Stem Cell Therapy for Pets - Lynn McCarron, DVM, Dipl. ABVP 10 RESCUE ME 12 A PICTURE’S WORTH 1,000 WORDS - Kim Justen 14 SIBLING BONDS - Sarah Tyler 16 SAVING PETS AND HEALING VETS - Mona Mistric 18 ASK STETON Q & A - Tonya Landon 20 MADAME TABU’S HOROSCOPE 22 GUIDING STUDENTS AND PUPPIES TO A BETTER FUTURE Training Puppies for the Blind - April A. Northstrom 24 WHY GOATS MAKE GREAT PETS - Jennafer Martin

With this issue, we surpassed the three year mark for Pets in the City Magazine. Once again, we want to thank all of you for your support. We had no way of knowing how enthusiastically we would be welcomed and supported over the years. You are a loyal community of companion animal lovers and together we are changing the way Utah laws view our furry friends.

This past year, we launched Pets in the City Magazine’s first annual Film Festival and fundraiser called PETDANCE. It was a huge success! The films submitted were a collection of heartfelt documentaries, inspirational films and comedies.

Drum roll…..

Get ready for PICM’s 2016 PAW-PARAZZI Film Festival! Like last year, we’ll be accepting films in four categories: Documentary/Advocacy, Comedy, Drama, and Youth Produced (for the 17 and under movie producers).

Last year one of our readers, Bart Bragg, sent in his furry companion’s photo with this email…..

September 2015

Sebastian we see bigger things for you! We think you’re a movie star! Put Daddy Bart to work and send us your reel! The 2016 PAW-PARAZZI Film Festival is waiting to see more! More information will be posted shortly on petsinthecitymagazine.com.

See you on the big screen!

Cover photo: Chris Dickinson

Last Month’s Issue

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Genevieve Campbell EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kim Justen MANAGING EDITOR Deborah Myers STAFF WRITERS Tonya Landon Jennafer Martin Mona Mistric April A. Northstrom Sarah Tyler CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lynn McCarron, DVM, Dipl. ABVP GUEST WRITERS RonaLeigh Wheelwright 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 PUBLISHERS 2016 Film Festival

HelloHello my name is Sebastian I’m I’m 1’ 31’1/2” tall brown eyes.eyes.

I enjoy walks in my name is Sebastian 3-1/2” tall brown I enjoy walks the in park, under under a blanket, long rides the in car,the and my the snuggling park, snuggling a blanket, longinrides car,chasing and chasing ball.my I’veball. dreamed of beingofabeing cover amodel I’ve dreamed coversince modelI was sincea puppy. Help make my dreams true!Help make my dreams come true!

I wascome a puppy.

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26 CONSISTENCY FOR PARROTS - Jennafer Martin and Ronaleigh Wheelwright 28 FAMILY FUN - Jokes - Color Your Own Graffiti - Book Reviews The Flight of Summer - Melissa Jenkins 30 YOUR PETS IN THE CITY PHOTOS

PUBLISHER PICM Publishing, LLC

Genevieve Campbell and Deborah Myers

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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The Truth About

Animal Control Officers Jennafer Martin

If you’ve ever watched a cartoon depicting a dog catcher, then chances are your idea of an Animal Control Officer (ACO) may be a comically clumsy or a mean man, determined to trap unsuspecting strays. That’s just one of several misconceptions out there about these hard-working officers who protect the public safety. So what’s the truth about ACOs? Take our quiz to test your knowledge and find out.

True or False: Animal Control Officers are law enforcement officials.

True. ACOs are law enforcement officers trusted to help keep communities safe. To do this, they need to know and enforce community health ordinances and laws as well as laws with respect to animal cruelty and neglect. They issue citations, conduct investigations and testify in court like other law enforcement officers.

True or False: Animal Control Officers dislike animals.

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False. Because one of their main concerns is the safety of animals, ACOs are often the biggest animal lovers around. Unlike the cartoon dog catcher, ACOs don’t see stray animals as fugitives to be captured; instead, they view capturing strays as a way to keep those animals safe from harm or accident. Because preventing animal cruelty and helping neglected animals is at the top of the ACO priority list, they must have a genuine concern for animals to be effective at their jobs.

True or False: The main skill needed to be an Animal Control Officer is the ability to catch strays.

False. Animal Control Officers need a variety of skills to be successful at their jobs. To enforce the law effectively, ACOs need to have a solid understanding of their local laws. To be able to solve problems and help trapped or escaped animals, ACOs need to be able to think on their feet. These officers also need courage and patience to handle sick, injured, and scared animals.

Effective investigation skills help them collect evidence and look into complaints, and strong reading and writing skills help them write reports and citations. Also important is an ability to help scared or emotional people and animals feel at ease with and trust them.

True or False: Among the occupational hazards for Animal Control Officers is working in the elements and getting their hands dirty.

True. In order to go where the animals are, ACOs spend a lot of their work time outside, often braving adverse weather conditions. To rescue animals, they find themselves climbing through or crawling in dusty or dirty buildings or tight spaces. They also care for the animals they take into custody, cleaning up and after the animals, often risking injury in the process.

So that’s the truth about Animal Control Officers Whether you guessed just a couple or all of the quiz answers correctly, it’s easy to see that there’s much more to these brave officers than cartoons tell us. ©

Chris Dickinson Photography

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EXPERT ADVICE

STEM CELL THERAPY FOR PETS

Lynn McCarron, DVM, Dipl. ABVP

Stem cell therapy is a treatment which is recently available for pets and has the potential to treat a number of diseases.

Researchers have long been studying the benefits of stem cell therapy in people, and its use in both pets and humans has shown some encouraging results.

Stem cells are primitive, undifferentiated cells that have the potential to develop into mature, differentiated cells. They also produce growth factors and cytokines that are anti-inflammatory and stimulate tissue repair and blood vessel generation. Because

of these abilities, they have the potential to help regenerate tissue in a part of the body that has been damaged by disease or injury. Stem cells originate from many tissues but are most easily harvested from bone marrow, umbilical cord blood, or adipose tissue (fat).

They may be injected into diseased tissue, helping to reduce inflammation, pain, and scar tissue. Currently in veterinary medicine, the most successful, consistent uses of stem cell therapy are for treating arthritis and injuries of bone, tendons, ligaments, and the spinal cord. Research also suggests that benefits may be seen in cases of chronic diseases such as diabetes, lupus, stomatitis, heart disease, kidney disease, and other diseases caused by immune system dysfunction.

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The stem cell therapy procedure is a relatively simple, two-step process for your pet. Fatty tissue is collected under general anesthesia, during

a short surgical procedure (day one). The tissue is immediately sent to a specialized laboratory, where it is treated to extract the desired cells, which are then shipped within 24 hours back to the veterinarian. The cells are then injected back into your pet in the diseased site (commonly into arthritic joints; usually on day 3). If possible, the laboratory also stores extra therapeutic doses of stem cells for future use, so that if additional treatment(s) for your pet are desired in the future, the process can be streamlined.

In the last decade, more than 7,500 dogs and horses have been treated with stem cell therapy. Adverse events have not been reported. Although stem cell therapy has shown promise, it really is in its infancy. Research studies have been performed which have demonstrated some efficacy of stem cell therapy for treatment of arthritis, and further studies for other uses are currently being performed. Stem cell therapy may ultimately prove to be broadly beneficial. But at this time, further work is needed to optimize its potential and clarify its range of benefits.

Stem cell therapy is not for every pet or for every condition. The treatment should be avoided if your pet is suffering from cancer or a widespread infection. Cost for the treatment may run between $2,000-3,000, though some pet insurance companies may include the treatment in their coverage. And in some cases, beneficial results are not permanent, so retreatment may be necessary to extend positive effects. If you are curious about stem cell therapy for your pet, you should ask your veterinarian if they are certified to perform the procedure, and thoroughly discuss all treatment options for your pet’s condition.

Dr. McCarron is the owner of University Veterinary Hospital & Diagnostic Center in Salt Lake City. She is board certified, specializing in canine and feline practice, and a member of the American Association of Feline Practitioners. Dr. McCarron has enjoyed serving Wasatch Front pets for more than twenty years.

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LOOKING FOR LOVE KENAI

Male / 2 Years Old / Border Collie Mix I have a lot of energy, and I am always looking for fun things to do: hiking, running, running while you bike, herding (hello, Border Collie). I’ve even tried my paw at obedience, rally, tricks and some agility, but the best part of an active day is snuggling up with you in the evening.

I’d love a home with another dog to play with, and for what it’s worth, I currently herd the chickens into their coop at night at my foster home. Because of my energy level and instinct to herd, sadly, I’m not the guy for a home with kids. Email info@caws.org to learn more about me.

OLLIE

REEDUS

Male / 2 Years Old / Black Domestic Shorthair Like Ollie, I was a transfer from another shelter to the Humane Society, so I’m a handsome toddleraged boy. I also don’t get along with other cats, but with the right family, I’ll blossom into one heck of a cat! Contact the Humane Society of Utah at (801) 261-2919 or visit utahhunane.org for more information about me.

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Female / 10 Years Old / Tabby Domestic Shorthair Hi, I’m a bit of a mystery since the Humane Society got me from another shelter. I don’t get along with other cats, so I’m looking for someone willing to love a mid-life girl. Contact the Humane Society of Utah at (801) 261-2919 or visit utahhunane.org for more information about me.

MAX

Male / 6 Years Old / Black Lab I’m looking for my forever family. My previous family didn’t have time to play with me, so I was outside all the time. I’m not housebroken, but with a little training, I can get the hang of it. I’m a big boy – 97 pounds – but I’m good with other dogs and kids. I just need a family willing to teach me the finer points of indoor life. Contact the Humane Society of Utah at (801) 261-2919 or visit utahhunane.org for more information about me.

~RESCUE ME~ GOOSE

Male / 7 Years Old / German Shepard mix I am a handsome, sweet older gentleman who loves daily walks.

Once I’ve had my daily exercise, I’d love to crash on the couch and watch a ball game with you. I get nervous when I’m left alone, so I really want a family who can provide consistency in my life. As a German Shepard mix, I need daily brushing. Contact the Best Friends Pet Adoption Center foster coordinator at utahfoster@bestfriends.org to learn more about me.

PINWHEEL

Male / 7 Years Old / Red and White Tabby Domestic Shorthair I am an easygoing boy, with a laidback personality. I’ll be happy to tell you when I want attention, but I also like my quiet time so I can nap. After all, I am a cat. If you cuddle with me, I’ll get nose to nose with you. I’m also a big fan of treats, so toss one across the floor and I may hunt it. You can meet me at the Best Friends Pet Adoption Center, 2005 South 1100 East, or learn more about me by contacting the foster coordinator at utahfoster@bestfriends.org.

LADY

MIMI

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Female / Adult / Tabby Domestic Shorthair The folks here at CAWS say I am quite the charmer. I came here from a shelter after losing my stillborn kittens. But here I played surrogate mom and nursed some orphaned kittens. I love people and am ready to go home and cuddle next to you. I am the ultimate lap cat, but I don’t share my humans well with other four-legged friends, so I’d really like to be your one and only! Email info@caws.org to learn more about me.

September 2015

TIFFANY

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Female / 1 Years Old / Tabby Domestic Shorthair I just want you to know that I’m a total lovebug! I enjoy snuggling, naps, and purring. I need a wonderful forever home where I can relax and be spoiled with lots of love, petting, and canned food. Call Nuzzles & Co at 435-649-5441 or 435-608-1424 for more info!

Pets In The City Magazine

Female / 5 Years Old / Pitt Bull Terrier I am a happy and snuggly girl who is looking for a home of my own. I don’t really like cats, and I’d be happiest as an only fur-child, but I promise to love and adore you forever! Call Nuzzles & Co at 435-649-5441 or 435-608-1424 for more info.

A PICTURE’S WORTH 1,000 WORDS Kim Justen Have you ever taken a picture of your pet and had it turn out like this?

No, there’s nothing wrong with it. It’s a picture of our cat, Stumposaurus Rex (our vet named him when he came in, a 6 week-old stray, after spending the night trapped in a deck chair). If you want a picture of a cat, this will work, but it’s nothing I’d ever want to hang on the wall.

So I turned to award-winning Western photographer (and PICM staff photographer), Chris Dickinson, for some suggestions on how to take better pictures of pets. He’s had plenty of experience working with pets, mostly dogs associated with his family’s pet training business.

His first bit of advice is to change your perspective. “Shooting down on animals is unnatural,” says Dickinson. Get down on their level. When you’re eye to eye, you’re sharing the spotlight with them. You become non-threatening.” From their level you’re more likely to get a shot of an expression that’s more impactful, one that tells a story and isn’t just a snapshot.

Pets In The City Magazine

Next, get their attention. Squeaky toys, treats, “making ridiculous noises with your mouth” and even other animals can be helpful. “In some cases, at the studio, we’ll let one of our pets into the back yard.” His dog will catch the attention of the dog he’s shooting, “and then their attention is locked.”

If you’re working with toys, treats, or a free sound app like Human-to-Cat (or Dog) Translator or Dog Squeaky Toy, you’ll probably need a helper to manage getting your pet’s attention while you focus on getting the shot. But Dickinson warns not to have too many people involved. “Pet owners will almost always oversaturate with people to get [the animal’s] attention. “The photographer and one other person is ideal,” he stresses.

By getting on her level and putting her off-center, Dickinson captured both her diminutive size and her view of the world.

Chris Dickinson Photography

Don’t center your pet. You’d think you want your pet to be centered in the photo, right? After all, you want them to be the focal point in the photo. But changing the framing of your photo can totally change the look of your pet. By putting Millie on the left side of this photo, Dickinson gave Millie someplace to run to. The framing gives the impression of movement. “By not centering your pet, you give them room to move. In this case, she has room to move right off the page.”

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, think about the image before you take it. “Before you take a picture, think about it. Do you want [your pet] presented like every other pet on Facebook? Think about the image and what you want to show.” When you take the time to think about the perspective for your shot, about how you want it framed and take the time to get your pet’s attention, you’re already getting a better shot than most people.

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In the case of Rex, he has two speeds: insanely active for a cat missing a leg, and passed out. I took a ton of photos of him playing with a cat toy, but in the end, this tight shot of his face is the one that called to me.

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Chris Dickinson Photography

All of Dickinson’s tips can help you take better photos of your pet. If you’re not getting the results you want, consider going to a professional, like Dickinson. You’ll also want a professional if you want a photo of you and your pet together. “With animals, just like human beings, we cherish our relationship with them,” says Dickinson. “There is an honest love in those relationships. To capture the bond between owners and pets is special.” Whichever you choose, you’ll end up with a true to life portrayal of your furry friend you’ll treasure forever.

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Sarah Tyler my dog Leonidas was my life. People told me this would change. They told me, “Once you have kids, your pets become just pets.” I didn’t believe it. I thought, their relationship with their pet isn’t like mine.

People insisted they had thought that way too, but it was inevitable. My relationship with my dog was doomed. He’d be just another forgotten pet, begging for attention.

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in the hospital when my daughter, Maiverly, was born. Leonidas was left at home, but I’d made arrangements for him. The least stressful situation was for him to remain at our place. So my friend graciously agreed to walk Leonidas three times a day with her dog, played with, and fed him while we were away. I was scared he’d act out when we got back, bringing a new creature into his pack.

I shouldn’t have been though. He has loved her since the day she arrived. He didn’t know quite what to make of her, but he cuddled up beside her the first moment we laid her down. Now, the two spend their whole day together. She is his baby. He follows her as she crawls, shares his toys, and comforts her when she cries. Their bond is clear.

Maiverly’s seven months old at this point and quite a handful. Luckily for me, she and the dog share similar interests. They love going for walks and hikes. She likes watching him fetch. He likes eating the food she drops from her high chair. She is the yin to his yang. my relationship with my pet did change. Leonidas is no longer just my dog. He has endeared himself even more to my heart through his love for my daughter. He is her older brother. Her protector. Her comforter. Maybe, if I had pushed him aside like a forgotten toy, and focused only on her, things would have turned out as predicted. But instead, my husband and I merged our past life with our new one. The dog’s walks are now family walks. Play time for Leonidas is now playtime for Maiverly and Leonidas. We all eat together, and cuddle during movie night. if you are expecting, is to remember that though you may have a new child, your pets don’t have a new owner. They still love you and need you as much as they ever did. Things will change, but you can decide in what ways.

And for those of you who have noticed the breakdown in your pet relationship after children, it’s never too late. Cesar Millan has always said that dogs live in the present and they are forgiving animals. Take the time to create the family dynamic you want, including your pet in the way you hoped for. The pet/child relationship is rewarding for both sides, and for us as parents. I am thankful for it every day. The greatest joy I have is watching my fur child bond with my first child.

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Studies of cat companions show that stroking their fur helps to lower blood pressure, decreases patient anxiety, increases sensory stimulation, wards off depression, inspires a sense of purpose, and helps people relax. Nursing homes using animal therapy reported that pets have a positive effect on patients. The animals help patients to be more alert, produced more smiles, and the presence of the pets helped the physically aggressive patients calm down.

Pets for Vets

saVing Pets anD healing Vets Mona Mistric

aDoPtable Pets

This is truly a win-win situation. Professional trainers teach the animals good manners so they will fit into the veteran’s lifestyle and help the veteran with physical and mental health challenges. Depending upon the veteran’s situation, animal training might include desensitization to wheel chairs or crutches, as well as recognizing panic and anxiety disorder behaviors.

the healing ConneCtion From the cobblestone streets of Portland, Maine to the palm tree neighborhoods of Los Angeles, veterans are thanking Pets for Vets for giving them a lifelong friend.

The companion pet has a calming, serene effect that is keenly in-tune with human emotions at times of loss, hardships, illness or other challenges. She has the ability, not only to sympathize, but to help the veteran heal. The veteran receives daily showers of uncomplicated love, learns how to heal emotional wounds, and experiences a heart filled with new meaning and purpose. The companion pet helps the veteran to feel better, physically and spiritually.

Pets In The City Magazine

According to the American Humane Society, every year a staggering three to four million healthy, adoptable pets are euthanized at shelters across the country. The good news is the number is down since the spay/neuter campaigns began a few years ago. However, that’s still not good enough. These animals could have become excellent companions, but they didn’t get the chance.

Animal trainer, Clarissa Black, with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and a Masters in Anthrozoology, wanted a “way to say thank you to our country’s heroes.”

She believes companion pets will be the lifesaving therapy or friend many returning service men and women need. She created the nonprofit organization “Pets for Vets” (http://www.pets-for-vets.com) where returning veterans suffering from PTSD and shelter animals awaiting euthanasia will all benefit.

returning Veterans Sadly, many of our returning military veterans are having a difficult time transitioning back into civilian life and need some extra help recovering, especially if they are coming from tours of duty in combat zones. Many suffer from PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with full-blown depression, often leading to a downward spiral of unemployment, broken relationships, and addictions.

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the human-animal bonD

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Researchers are exploring the health benefits associated with the human-animal bond. Unfortunately, there have only been a few controlled studies. In those studies, several showed that people who regularly walk their dogs are more physically active and less likely to be obese. Also, the dog invites conversation with others, as people can’t help but make a comment or ask questions about the dog, creating social interaction. Often, these casual encounters lead to friendships. People with more social relationships tend to live longer and are less likely to show mental and physical decline as they age.

remember, sePtember is national serViCe Dog month!

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Stetson

Tonya Landon

My family is looking to move my mom into an assisted living home. The problem is my mom doesn’t want to move without her 5 year-old toy poodle. Any suggestions? – Gilbert

Not only is this an emotional time for your mom and family, but it is an emotional time for her dog as well. Your mom doesn’t want to leave her beloved dog behind and the dog doesn’t want to be left behind. The great news is many assisted living homes are now allowing residents to move in with their pets!

THE BENEFITS. Pets lower blood pressure and help their owners get more exercise. They help seniors avoid social withdrawal, loneliness or depression.

After an illness or surgery, seniors recover more quickly if they have their pets with them. Keep in mind, owning a pet isn’t for every senior. For some, owning a pet can be stressful or a financial burden, or can be dangerous due to tripping, jumping or knocking over the senior.

MOVING IN. Once your mom is settled in her new room, bring over her dog. Slowly introduce the dog to the staff and other residents. Keep the same schedule you had at home as closely as you can (feeding, potty time and walking). Make sure you keep the dog on a leash and follow all the rules of the facility. If the dog starts to have a behavioral issue, please contact a dog trainer for help.

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AFTERWARDS. As a family, it’s very important to have a plan for the dog if your mom passes away, or if she isn’t able to care for the dog anymore. Talk to your mom about where she would like her dog to live under the circumstances. Having a plan for her dog will help your mom feel more secure about the future.

Tonya Landon is a professional dog trainer with Diamonds in the Ruff.

She rescued and trained Stetson, a small terrier with aggression issues, to be cast in the title role of the 2012 Stetson, Street Dog of Park City, a short film adapted from the children’s book written by Jeanine Heil.

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FINDING A PLACE. The places that allow pets usually have strict rules regulating pet ownership. This is done to keep everyone safe, including the pet owner. There will be a pet temperament test given before allowing it to live at the facility. Find out all the rules and regulations of owning a pet there before signing your mom up to live at the facility.

If you have questions for Stetson, please send them to askstetson@gmail.com.

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Madame Tabu’s Horoscope * *

FOR YOU AND YOUR PETS SEPTEMBER 2015 Virgo (Aug 23 – Sept 22) Look over your finances this month to make any needed budget adjustments in spending for your family, including what you spend on your companion animal.

Aries (March 21 – April 19) Break up your routine this month and fire up your sense of adventure by taking a road trip with your pet for Labor Day weekend.

Libra (Sept 23 – Oct 22) As the kids go back to school, take the opportunity to change up your routine a bit, including spending a bit more time with your pet.

Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21) This month is the perfect time to get a physical or checkup from your doctor and ensure your pet is up to date on vaccinations.

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Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21) The dog days of summer may be lagging, but keep a cool head and keep using solutions to beat the heat for you and your pet.

Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19) Watch out for miscommunications between you and your pet – as well as other humans – this month when Mercury goes retrograde starting the 17th.

Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 18) This month provides you with motivation to stop procrastinating on a project for your pet, one you’ve been meaning to tackle for a while now.

Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20) The focus this month is on strengthening relationships. Call a friend you haven’t talked to in a while and spend quality time with your companion animal.

Taurus (Apr 20 – May 20) Celebrate Grandparents’ Day on the 13th by taking your pet to visit your grandparents or to brighten the day of those living in a senior center.

Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21) If your pet acts a little odd on the 27th, don’t worry, it will pass. It’s just the effect of the full moon and its eclipse magnifying energy.

Cancer (Jun 22 – July 22) You enjoy being a homebody, but switch things up this month to enjoy a walk or hike in nature with your pet before the weather gets too chilly.

Leo (July 23 – Aug 22) Be careful that your thirst for accomplishing goals, which increases when Mars enters Virgo this month, doesn’t get in the way of relationships with loved ones, including your animal companions.

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

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GUIDING STUDENTS AND PUPPIES TO A BETTER FUTURE TRAINING PUPPIES FOR THE BLIND April A. Northstrom Martine Savageau knows there is something extraordinary about raising puppies to help the blind. It takes a special dog to make the journey from puppy to companion, but it also takes an exceptional trainer to take the puppy on that journey. Savageau has dedicated nearly 25 years to being part of Guide Dogs for the Blind, Inc. (GDB), and is now sharing her talents with young trainers-in-the-making.

In addition to her work with seeing eye dogs as a volunteer and as a qualified dog trainer, she has experience with therapy animals, guide dogs, and search and rescue animals through organizations such as Friends of the Animals (now Nuzzles & Co.) and Willow Creek Pet Center.

She is also a teacher with the Salt Lake City School District, with a specialty in Agricultural Education through the District’s Career and Technical Center.

Through her work with GDB and with the support of District leadership, in 2005, Savageau created the Companion Animal Science Program, allowing high school students to earn credit while training puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind, Inc. The hands-on program was the first in the country to allow students a year-long experience in basic guide dog training.

Pets In The City Magazine

Passionate about her affiliation with the organization, she is emotional when asked about her connection to their work. “[GDB] really is an incredible organization and they support their dogs and clients better than anyone,” says Savageau. “They are supportive of new ideas for the dogs and people alike. They are better than you’d ever imagine.”

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Since 1942, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Inc. has empowered lives by fostering partnerships between people, dogs and communities. They are the largest guide dog school in the country and are dedicated to providing high quality student training services which are offered at no cost.

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They operate two training facilities (one in San Rafael, California, another in Boring, Oregon), and have more than 1,400 puppy-raising families

throughout the Western states. More than 12,500 teams have graduated since their founding, and there are approximately 2,100 active guide dog teams across the United States and Canada.

Savageau works with GDB as a liaison and helps students navigate their puppies through a 12-month program. This coming school year, she’s preparing for 28 new puppies to be matched with students from five different schools. The program is an illustration of her vision for dog training, her dedication to teaching, and the District’s foresight to support a leading-edge education program.

“We have an incredible agricultural education program in the state and the support of the administration, along with Guide Dogs for the Blind, makes my job possible,” says Savageau.

After the puppies “graduate” locally, they’re taken to GDB’s national headquarters and given 10-12 weeks of additional training. After that, they are matched with a client who has gone through their own qualification process. Unfortunately, the costs are often too high for students to travel to see their puppies officially graduate, but Savageau is hopeful ongoing fundraising efforts will make it possible for students to see how their hard work connects to those in need.

Puppy training with high school students is timeintensive and sometimes emotionally taxing — both on the students and Savageau, but well worth it in the end. “I’ve had more than one student say how much raising a dog has changed their life. A kid who struggles to make friends might now have a dog to take to school or keep them focused at home and it helps them meet new people. It gives them confidence and they become people who they might not have become. Dog people know what that is like.”

GDB’s tagline is, “Raise a Puppy.

Change a Life,” and Savageau’s work with the dogs and students has changed many lives. Still, she considers it a blessing that her passion for animals, teaching, and dog training has given her the opportunity to work with many gifted souls.

“How lucky am I that I get to play with dogs and kids all day? It’s really the greatest thing.”

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WHY GOATS MAKE

Great Pets Jennafer Martin

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Pets In The City Magazine

hile goats have traditionally been kept as sources of milk and meat, many people are discovering that they can be wonderful companion animals, too. Charming and sweet, goats offer a lot of affection and make intelligent, loving pets. And, with a life expectancy of 15-18 years, goats can be your companions for a decade or two! If your city is zoned to allow goats and you have access to a nearby large animal veterinarian for their care, consider these reasons why they may be the unexpectedly perfect pets for your family — without “getting your goat.”

them into your home as pets, make sure you have a medium- to large-sized yard to keep them in. They need pens outside that are at least 4 x 4 feet each to keep them safe and contained when needed. And make sure you have fencing to block off any landscaping features or gardens you’d rather your goats not express their curiosity on.

GOATS ARE GOOD EATERS. Goats are indiscriminate eaters who like a varied diet of plants, fruits, veggies, and more. They will munch on plants and flowers in your yard, though, so make sure your pet goats are separate from your prize-winning petunias. You’ll need to get their feed — mostly alfalfa hay — at a feed store, such as IFA, rather than at a traditional pet store. Their diet needs to be supplemented with minerals, so you’ll need to provide salt mineral blocks and other trace elements. Do research before bringing goats in your home, as milking goats and goats with access to little pasture have supplemental dietary needs. And be prepared — goats can be messy eaters. So make sure their feed time isn’t inside around things you’d like to keep neat.

Goats can be fantastic companion animals in the right environment and under the right conditions. Talk to other goat owners in your area before taking them in, so you’re prepared for these unique animals.

GOATS ARE LOYAL AND AFFECTIONATE. The adage about stubborn goats isn’t always true. Goats can be very loyal and affectionate, particularly if they are bottle fed and reared around humans. The more they socialize with humans, the more cooperative goats can be, as they really do want to please you. They will have capricious moments, though, so be prepared to be firm but kind to keep their behavior on track. When their needs are met, goats can be as loyal and affectionate as a dog. They don’t, however, make the best pets to lie in your lap.

Taking in goats is never a “party of one” affair. As herd animals, goats like being in groups, so they aren’t self-sufficient. They need a lot of attention and do better in pairs or groups, so plan on getting at least two goats as companion animals. For best results, avoid getting bucks with horns, because they can be very aggressive during mating season.

For best results, take in a pair of baby goats that have been disbudded. And get your goats from a reputable breeder to get the healthiest animals possible.

GOATS ARE CURIOUS AND ADVENTUROUS. As pets, goats are no shrinking violets. Natural explorers, goats are curious about their environment. Because of this, they need room to roam. So, if you’d like to bring

We want to see your pet goat photos!

Your image could be featured in an upcoming issue of Pets In The City Magazine! E-mail a high resolution, digital image to info@ petsinthecitymagazine. com. Please include your pet’s name.

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CONSISTENCY FOR PARROTS Parrots make terrific companion animals if their need for consistency is met.

Jennafer Martin and RonaLeigh Wheelwright

Smart, loving and friendly, parrots can make wonderful companion

animals under the right conditions. But when their needs go unmet, parrots can act out by being loud, destructive, or both. Birds consider their family members – human or otherwise – part of their flock, so consistency of companionship and routine is of vital importance to their wellbeing and their ability to be good companion animals. Answer these questions before you bring a parrot home to make sure you can provide the consistency she needs.

Am I ready to make a long-term commitment?

Birds can live anywhere from 10 to 75 years in captivity. The larger the bird, the longer the lifespan, so making a parrot your companion animal can be a lifelong commitment. Despite their need for consistency, parrots go through an average of nine homes in their lives because their humans weren’t ready for the long-term commitment to care for them.

Will I make the parrot a priority?

Life brings many changes, and making your parrot a priority through those changes will be essential to his wellbeing. “Birds need to be considered members of the family with needs you care for,” says Wheelwright. “Birds don’t understand that they have to leave your home because your work schedule changed or your new girlfriend doesn’t like them. They are loyal companions who deserve our loyalty in return.” If you’re not prepared to make your parrot a priority despite life’s changes, then another companion animal may be better for you.

Is my home a place where a bird can be a bird?

Between feathers, toys, and food, parrots can be messy pets. Parrots also need daily time out of their cages for at least an hour, and they can be noisy companion animals. If you live with roommates or neighbors who don’t like noise, or if your home needs to be incredibly clean all the time or is one where pets aren’t allowed, then another companion animal will be more suited to your home.

Pets In The City Magazine

Parrots get very attached to their human flock mates, so a change in families is difficult for them. When they do not understand why their flock mates are gone, they Parrots are wonderful companion animals and can be lifelong friends as long as you can get depressed and withdrawn, sometimes to the point of self-harm. If you do go into your relationship with them with your eyes wide open. If you’re considering not think you can care for a parrot his whole life, then another type of companion adopting a parrot, drop into Ronie’s for the Love of Birds store in Sandy. animal will suit you better.

Ronie and her staff will give you insights to understand better what to expect for this long-term commitment.

Can I provide for the parrot’s needs?

Parrots have physical needs for good nutrition, good environments and mental stimulation. Can you provide fresh fruits and veggies and quality pellets, as well as a suitably sized cage with good perches and a variety of toys? Great!

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But caring for physical needs is only part of caring for parrots.

Consistent companionship is essential to their emotional needs being met. Parrots are social creatures, bred to live in family groups. They should have two to three hours of interaction with their human flock mates consistently each day.

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Emotionally, parrots are about the same age as toddlers, and, like toddlers, they have a need for consistent routines and plenty of sleep. “Parrots require a lot of time and attention,” says Ronie Wheelwright, owner of Ronie’s for the Love of Birds in Sandy. “And people commonly surrender parrots to our rescue organization because they didn’t realize how much time caring for the parrot would take.” If you won’t be able to spend consistent time with a parrot or provide a consistent routine, getting up each morning at the same time to care for him, then a parrot is not the right companion animal for you.

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THE FLIGHT OF SUMMER Melissa Jenkins

Jokes: 1. What do you call a sleeping bull?

2. What did the buffalo say to his son when he went away on a trip?

Do you feel like your summer has flown by? The feeling always seems to be mutual. To help you celebrate those remaining weeks of sweltering freedom, we collected a few bird-related books for your reading pleasure.

7. What is the difference between a car and a bull?

8. What kind of cat should you never play games with?

3. What dog keeps the best time?

9. What’s the difference between a fish and a piano?

4. Why don’t dogs make good dancers?

10. Why did the elephant leave the circus?

5. What is a cat’s favorite color?

11. What do fish take to stay healthy?

6. There were 10 cats in a boat and one jumped out. How many were 12. Where do sheep get their hair cut? left?

Pets In The City Magazine

Color your own Graffiti

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1. A bull-dozer.

2. Bison!

3. A watch dog!

4. Because they have two left feet!

5. Purrr-ple 6. None, because they were copycats!

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Answer Key:

©

Chris Dickinson Photography

7. A car only has one horn.

8. A cheetah!

9. You can’t tuna fish.

10. He was tired of working for peanuts.

11. Vitamin sea.

12. At the baa-baa shop.

THE SIGNING HAT The Signing Hat by Tohby Riddle (Picture Book: Ages 0 and up) Colin Jenkins took a nap in a park one day. Upon awaking, he discovers that a bird built a nest right on his head! In order not to disturb the bird and her egg, Colin Jenkins decides to let nature run her course. Unfortunately, this causes all kinds of problems, such as loss of friends, a job, and his apartment. Read on to see if it was all worth the trouble.

TIME FLIES Time Flies by Eric Rohmann (Picture Book: Ages 0 and up) In honor of the Jurassic World movie release, here is a book about dinosaurs...and birds! The beautiful illustrations tell the story of a bird who finds its way into a museum. You won’t want to miss what happens when the dinosaurs come to life and consider the little bird a tasty snack.

DUCK & GOOSE GO TO THE BEACH Duck & Goose Go to the Beach by Tad Hills (Picture Book: Ages 0 and up) This delightfully illustrated book is bright and colorful, the perfect feel for summer.

Duck and Goose leave their beloved meadow on an adventure to find the excitement that only a day at the beach can provide. In the end, they discover that there really is no place like home. Make sure you don’t miss the fun adventure map through the meadow.

Melissa Jenkins is a librarian with Salt Lake County Library Services. All books reviewed here are available for checkout through the library.

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PHOTOS

YOUR PETS IN THE CITY Sophie

Do you want to share a photo of your pet?

Chunk

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

Daisy Akila & Fiesta Bugsly Bailey

Pets In The City Magazine

Hurley

Rusty

Abby Ike

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Baxter & Angel

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Bonnie & Piper

Titan

Bearry

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