Welcome to our Pets Edition of Longmont Magazine, where we dive intothe world of pets, celebrating the companionship, joyand unique charm they bring intoour lives.This issue is brimming with stories, tips and local highlights thatevery current or prospective pet ownerwill cherish.
We begin with an exclusive Q&A with Russell Hinkle, the CEO of the Longmont Humane Society Learn about their crucial work in animal welfareand discoverways you can makeadifference.
Explorethe mutual benefits of pet fostering and the lifechanging impact it can have on both animals and humans.For pet owners seeking the finestcare, our curated list of localservices offers the best in grooming,training and health caretokeepyour pets in topshape.
Find out which dognames are currently trending.Stretch beyond your usual routine withGoatYoga, an invigorating waytoenhance your moodand bond with playful farm animals duringyoga practice.
OurfeatureonBoulderCounty 4-H highlights howyoung people arestepping up as leaders, demonstrating skills that promise to makealasting impact on our community.Wealso provide practical advice on creating apetfriendly home, essential tips for first-time pet owners and crucial information on pet licensing in Longmont
Be sure to also check out this edition’s Business Spotlight view the ‘Save the Date’section for exciting upcoming events in and around Longmont HappyReading!
–GregStone
10 LOCAL INFLUENCER
Q&A with Longmont Humane Society CEO Russell Hinkle
15 PET FOSTERING
With pet foster care, both animals andpeople benefit
18 ONLYTHE BEST FORYOUR PETS
Local picks for pet grooming, training,health and care.
22 POPULAR DOG NAMES
These names arecurrently among thetop 10 most popular dog names.
25 GOAT YOGA
Stretch your boundaries and boost your mood with a furry friend.
28 BOULDER COUNTY 4-H
4-H members takecenter stage at the BoulderCounty Fair,showcasing leadership and lifelong skills.
ju ly /augus t2 02 4 r ead mor es tories at longmontm ag azine. com
32 MAKING ADIFFERENCE
Longmont Dairy delivers more than fresh milk to customers
34 CREATING APET-FRIENDLY PALACE
5waystoset up asafe, cozy home for cats and dogs
36 5TIPS FOR NEW PET OWNERS
Prepareyour furry friend for a newhome with these essential tips for first-timepet owners.
38 NEED TO KNOW
Details on PetLicensing in Longmont, Voice and Sight Control TagProgram and essentials to adopting apet
36 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Spotlight on High Plains Bank Trust, Estateand Investment Services
36 SAVE THE DATE
Mark your calendars for an array of events happening in and around Longmont
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
PUBLISHER
MatthewBennett, Linda ThorsenBond Emma Castleberry,Adam Goldstein, Sarah Huber, Julie Kailus, Ross Maak, WendyMcMillan, David Wharton, ShelleyWidhalm
EDITOR/DESIGNER
Greg Stone
ADVERTISINGCOORDINATOR
Jeanine Fritz
ADVERTISINGSALES
Julie Casper, Ruth Garfield, Isaiah Knight, Abbie Lance, Billy Magrini, Melissa Morris, Francine Wahlgren
Jill Stravolemos jstravolemos@prairiemountainmedia.com
303.473.1420
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APublicationofthe Longmont Times-Call. To advertise, call 303.473.1400 or email advertising@prairiemountainmedia.com
EDITORIAL& EVENTS
To submit astory idea, visit www.longmontmagazine.com/contact-us/ or email gstone@prairiemountainmedia.com
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by WendyMcMillan Longmontmagazine
Growing up in rural Michigan, Longmont Humane Society (LHS) CEO Russell Hinkle was always drawntoanimals.Spending much ofhis time outdoors, his dogsand barncats were constant companions whom he loved dearly. Notonly that, he recognized there was much to learn from them, too.
“Animals teach us howtoforgive and accept each other,”Hinkle says “That’s areally powerful thing that many of us have ahardtime with as people. Companion animals offer us unconditional love and loyalty,they listen,and theycareabout us.Ithink that everyone who has an animal in their home is abetterperson for it.”
While animals occupied aspecial place in Hinkle’s life from childhood, working with themwasn’tastraight path. Aptitude for math and problem-solving initially led him to acareerinengineering,one which he enjoyed and was exceptional at But, something was lacking.Upon making the decision to change professions, Hinkle spent ayear working on afarm, reflecting and regroupingalongside hard physical labor.Then, whenhestarted ajob search in earnest, an openposition with Longmont Humane Society jumped out.
“I interviewed, andthe opportunity whenpresented was an easy one to take,” Hinkle says.“The people who work [at Longmont Humane Society]are so amazing, compassionate, loving,kind to the animals and each other.”
As CEO,Hinkle finds that he still gets to engage in ways that represent what he loved about engineering–dealingcreatively and responsively to the constant flux of variables and moving parts, and finding unique solutions to help themflow
“Animals teachus howtoforgive and accepteachother. That’sareally powerful thing that manyofushavea hardtimewith as people.
together. Butnow challenges bring about adeeper, moremeaningful satisfaction. “I lovethe mission, the animals and getting to work with the people Ido,” he says.“There’s afamily-feeling from it that’s motivating and inspiring –the kind that makes you want to showup everyday.”
What is the foundation underneath thatheartfelt inspiration? Hinkle sharesaglimpse of whatmakesbeing partofone of Longmont’s most beloved
institutions so meaningful.
Whatdoes atypical daylook likefor youasCEO of Longmont Humane Society?
My day-to-daychanges with whatever is needed from me. My operations and leadership background allowmetohelp build and drive workflows, butI also spend agood amount of time planning for the futureand meeting with various community members or stakeholders to make surewe’re ready for whatever lies ahead of us
To serve our mission well and deliveronour long-termvision for LHS and thecommunity,wehaveto be an adaptable and efficient team.It all starts with fostering aworkplace culturethat promotes kindness and togetherness; so, at the leadership level, we’realways checking in with each otherand seeing howwecan help each otherout; we’relistening to our employees and volunteers to bring themintothe conversation as we move forward.
LHS is abelovedLongmont institution withathreefold missionofimproving the lives of companion animals (and theirwould-be companions) through caring, serving and educating.What would youlikepeople to knowmost about it?
We serve the people of the community through programs like the Well PetClinic, which provided morethan 9,000 low-cost veterinary procedureslast year to owned animals from thecommunity, or through our Public PetPantrythat shares donations of pet-supplies with people in the community who need some help providing the things their pets need.
We also have comprehensive training programs and classes that people can take, where we helpthem understand their animals needs better.
Right now, we have our Kids and Critters camp going on –it’s areally cool summer program that teaches animal welfareknowledge in afun and interactive way. Alot of families look forwardto thiseach year, and we love the excitementthatthe kids bring to the shelter during those weeks of camp.
LHS is aSocially Conscious shelter with astrong commitment to best practices in animal welfare. Whatis involved in keeping this status? Whatdoes it mean to you?
To us, it’s the only waytogoabout our business.Westrive to ensurethe
best possible outcome for everyanimal that comes through our doors This extends to the quality of their food, the exercise or enrichment theyneed to have agood quality of life, and to generally give themthe love andkindness theydeserve.
How can people supportLHS, through volunteering, donations, fostering, adopting?
There aresomany ways to support LHSand our mission. Volunteers and foster families give us their time, and we couldn’t do what we do without them, period. Others donatedirectly or find indirect ways likereaching out to their employers –a lot of
employers will match donations and many morewill sponsor one of our kennels or events.You can followusonsocial media and share our stories, or just come to any of our events and enjoythe company of otheranimal-lovers from around town. Youcould think about bringing your skill sets here as well, whether applyingfor ajob or giving someof your professional time as an in-kind donation.The possibilities arenearly endless
It’s challenging to always meet our high standards in anonprofit space where fundingishardto come by, but that’s where our supportersand our excellent staffand volunteers come intoplay. Formorethan fifty years, we’ve found away to make it work. Fifty years from now, LHS will still be here working forthe best possible outcomes for animals and their companions
Is thereanything else you’d liketosharewith the community?
My deepest gratitude to our incredible employees, volunteers and supporters. Youmakesaving lives possible.
To learn more, including specifics on howto volunteer, donateand foster,please visit longmonthumane.org.
By sarah huber Longmont magazine
Pet foster carehelps people as well as animals, according to Anneliese Collins, executive director of Bounce Animal Rescue. “The benefits are endless,” she said. “For animals, foster care provides reduced stress, personalized care, socialization, medical recovery and behavior improvement. Forshelters, fostering increases space, better adoption outcomes and resource allocation.” And for the human volunteers, foster providers enjoy “companionship, community contribution and philanthropic involvement.”
Petfostering and rescue organizations rely on volunteers to carefor hundreds of animals each year.Asanonprofitwith foster volunteers throughoutColorado and into neighboring states, Bounce Animal Rescue handles up to 900 animals annually through
ownersurrenders and from sheltersand at-risk situations.“We place heavy emphasis on quality veterinary care, nutrition, spay and neuter programs, education and compatible adoptions,” noted Collins
“The knowledge that you’re saving alife andproviding a temporary home for adisplaced animal is immensely fulfilling,” she added. “It’s awonderful way
to contributetothe wellbeing of animals and experience the joyof them finding their homes.”
While Bounce Animal Rescue specializes in juvenile, pregnant andnursing domestic animals, as well as medical and behavioral cases, some fostering nonprofits dedicatetheir efforts to senior pets or animals who require months of socialization prior to adoption. OldDogs NewDigs,
with abase in Boulder, partners with shelters, rescuegroups and vet clinics to settle aging dogs and cats in permanent homes.Last year volunteers fostered more than 100 animals and provided food and medical carethrough the nonprofit’s Community Assistance Program for older adults with pets in need
Fostering supports adoption, said OldDogs NewDigs founder and president Mandy Fisher “Oftentimes thereare things that cannot be learned aboutan animal while they areinashelter environment,” shesaid. “Fostering is beneficial because it gives the animal aloving place to stay while we aretrying to find thema forever home.”
Animals needing long-term care, medical treatment or social training thrive in foster environments.Whereas acat born intoadomestic environment may be quickly adopted from ashelter, for example, feralkittens and cats need patient supportfor weeks or
months beforeadoption maybefeasible,explained EstherMills, president and afounder of the nonprofit Longmont Friends of Feral &Abandoned Cats.
“There is asegment of the cat population who have beenoverlooked. Some saythey’re untamable, butwehave found that alot of time theyjust might takealittle longertobuild trust,” said Mills, continuing,“The connotation is that they aremean, but theyare afraid –and no different than any othercat that needs ahome.” Oldercats who persistently resist human interaction receive
safety,”she said.
Longmont Friends of Feral&Abandoned Cats also oversees feralcat colonies in the Longmont area. Theytransport colonies that risk getting out of control, spayand neuter cats, provide food andmonitor catsfor medicalcare. “Each cat in everycolony we adopt hasaname,” Mills said.
During the Longmont flood in 2013, volunteers crossed high waterto ensurethat the catsin one of the organization’s “adopted colonies” did not go hungry
The first step to pet fostering is usually
Spinal decompression has savedmanypeople from spinal surgery.If you aresuffering from a degenerated or herniated disc,don’trisk surgery until youhave explored safe and effective spinal decompression!
Johnston Chiropractic has cared for the Longmont community and northern Colorado since 1977. Dr.Derek Johnston joined the family practice 24 years agoand since then he has added manycutting-edgetreatments including the DRX9000 (True Spinal Decompression),low level laser therapy,infrared therapy,high tech rehab and acupuncture. Dr.Johnston is ahighly skilled Chiropractic adjuster providing gentle, specific and precise adjusting with traditional high velocity,low amplitude adjustments or light pressure Logan Basic Techniques as well as impulse and activator adjusting. Since acquiring the DRX9000 (spinal decompression) in 2006Dr. Johnston has been able to treatthe most difficult and severe lower back conditions thatused to lead many people to surgery. This treatment has been agame changer for so manyofour patients and has helped them avoid unnecessarysurgical procedures thatthey were advised they had to have. Using the DRX-9000 has successfully treated chronic and severe lower back pain, herniated and bulging discs, sciatica, degenerative disc disease and even failed lower spine surgery. Dr.Johnston strives to really educate his patients about their condition and help them learn to better manage their condition so they can live amore pain free and healthy lifestyle.
By LindaThorsen Bond Longmont magazine
Having ahealthy, happy relationship with your pets has many facets Thereare questions: Wheredoyou takeyour pet for medical care? Wheredoyou leave your pet whenyou have to be away? Is there agroomerwho cares for your pet’s overallhealth? Howcan you stop your pet from jumping all over you? And last but certainly not least, whowill scoop up all that pet waste?
We have theanswers to your questions gatheredthroughout the area
Rachel Shannon, ownerofDeeO-Gee, treats pets as theunique individuals they are. She said, “We areaHolistic pet food and retail storespecializing in thehealthand nutrition of cats and dogs.Wealso provide full grooming services and aprivateroom for do-it-yourself dog wash. Ourmost frequent requestsare for grooming and people coming in to change theirfood
because their pet has asensitive stomach.”
She added, “Dee-O-Geeisunique because we areveryhands-on with everycustomerthat comes into the store. We want to maketheir experience specializedtotheirpets’ needs because it is not one size fits all with nutrition. We have Pet nutritionists on staffeveryday to help with any questions customers might have.” |110 EmerySt, Ste ALongmont,303.552.4928, 970.629.6600, longmont.dee-o-gee.com
According to ownerNancyBureau, DVM, Left Hand Animal Hospital is aFear-Freecertified veterinary hospital that helps pets who are scared at thevet be less worried about veterinary care. It is one of only three Fear-FreeCertified practices in the StateofColorado and uses many modalities of medicine to best help pets
Bureau said, “HereatLeft Hand Animal Hospital, all of us, including reception staff,nurse technicians and doctors, aretrained in fear-free/ low-stress handling techniquesfor your animals.Welimit timefor you
andyour pet in our waitingarea, allowing you and your pet to settle intoacomfortable exam room more rapidly.Weoffercatnip, toys, and snacks for cats, as well as pheromones andcomfy cat beds to calm them. Ourdog friends areinvitedto
playwith toys from thetoy binsand have squishydog beds to snuggle. Pets areexamined wheretheyare most comfortable,whetherona petbed, floor or lap.Most exams aredone with toys, snacks, and lots of praise; in fact, you and your pet
maynot even notice that the doctor is checking your pet’s lungs, heart, lymph nodes, joints, and whole body health. Blood drawsare done with fear-free handling techniques, and vaccinations and treatments aredone with snacks and toys.”
EventheexteriorofLeftHand Animal Hospitalisdesigned to look likeahomeratherthanan office, andthedoctorswearcolorful scrubsorbusinesscasualclothes ratherthanwhitemedicalcoats. Bureausaidpetparentsmightnot noticefear-reducing techniques like thepaintingsonthewallsthat helpsoundproofthe roomsand thedoorsdesignednot to slam andstartlethepets.Shesaid, “We make thevisitslessnerve-wracking andmorefunforthepets.That makesvisitstoLeftHandjustmuch lessscary.” |304FranklinSt.,Niwot, 303.652.8387, lefthandanimalhospital.com
HappyHoundsDogCareCenter
Throughtheirextensive16yearsin the dogcarebusiness,co-owners OliviaCarrollandBrian Neill continue to bring auniqueapproach to HappyHounds. Thisunderstanding,gainedfromtheirspecial-needs dog,wasthe catalystfortheirbusinessmodel: Dogcarecan’tbeonesize-fits-all.Thisphilosophy isthe cornerstoneof everydog’sexperienceatHappyHoundsDogCare Center,makingit atrulyuniqueand personalizedservice.
Oliviashares,“Regrettably,some dogs returnfromboardingcenters stressedorunwell. Ourowndog, Mr.T,taughtusthat dogs,like people,canget overwhelmed. We arededicatedtocraftingexperiencestailored to eachdog to enhance theirstay. We investtimeingetting to knoweachdog,updatingtheir profile regularly to ensureour team is alwaysintunewiththeirevolving needs.Weunderstandthat adog’s needscanchangeovertime.” HappyHounds’Enrichment DaycareandBoardingservicesare atestament to ourcommitment to yourpups.Oliviaelaborates, “Weofferexceptionalvaluefor ourclients,unlikecompetitors whocharge abasepriceand add$15forEACHadditional enrichmentsession! Ourlowest enrichmentboardingpackage includesthreeindividualized enrichmentsessions.And if your pupisapprovedforgroupplay, theywillgetboththe enrichment andgroupplay, ensuringthey have afunandfulfillingstaywith us.” |1651SkywayDrive,Longmont,
According to ownerSandyBrady, SitMeansSit DogTraining isa full-servicefacility.Shesaid, “Weofferdogtraining, daycare, boarding,groomingandswimming. Dogtrainingiswhere westarted andstillourmost requested service;ourotherserviceswere developed to fulfillthe requests wewere gettingfromour training clients.Ourtrainersworkwith all ages,allproblems,allbreeds.I feel thatthelong-lastingrelationships we havewithourclients make usunique. We seeclients return to usastheyadoptnewpuppies or rescuesand referneighbors &friends. BecauseSit MeansSit isthelargest U.S.dog training company,we receive referralsfrom familymembersoutofstateall
over thecountry.Familymembers love to sharegood resultswith othersnomatterwhere they live.” |4040 KodiakCt.,Firestone,720.263.7297, sitmeanssitlongmont.com
PetButlerprovides dogpoop scoopingservicesandpetwaste removal to homesandmulti-family communities.Since1988, PetButler hasbeenatopbusiness, providingthebestin“pooperscooper service”andsanitationwithprofessionalservice to clients across NorthAmerica. UniformedPet Butlertechnicianswill tidyupjust aboutanything –fromresidential yards to apartmentsorHOAs –and theydo sowithworld-classservice. Jordan Daltonisthe ownerofthe companyservicingLongmont. | Longmont,720.487.9411,petbutler.net
Isyour dog named Luna, Bella or Charlie? If so, you’reingood company!
These names arecurrently among the top10most popular dog names.
Top 10 Most Popular Dog Names:
•Luna
•Bella
•Charlie
•Lucy
•Daisy
•Cooper
•Bailey
•Max
•Sadie
•Penny
Foreach head-to-head matchup, the winnerisin bold, with the numberof dogs having each name in parentheses
Here aresome of our favoriterivalries between popular fictionalcharacters:
•Batman (234) vs.Superman (11)
•Tom (118) vs Jerry (406)
•Mario (124) vs Bowser (530)
•Thor (2,455) vs Loki (5,749)
•IronMan (7)vs. Captain America (34)
•Barbie (132) vs.Ken (28)
•Edward(110) vs. Jacob (162)
•Bert(293) vs Ernie (680)
•Peeta (22) vs.Gale (17)
Source: Embark
By Julie Kailus Longmont magazine
Readytostretch your boundaries? Trygoat yoga. Live, lovable goats provide ahappy distraction during the practice, which takesyour mind away from anyproblems, accordingtoRocky Mountain GoatYoga (RMGY)
CEO JimNaron. “Goats have a natural calming energy so it’seasy to get lost in the moment of goat yoga –and that’s the point.”
Science tells us that interacting with animalsthatfeelsafe with us increases mood-boosting oxytocin levels while decreasing stressinduced cortisol. “Thisnatural exchange occurs with asimple interaction by petting and gazing at goats,” Naronsays. “Wenever experience negative side effects likewedowith pharmaceuticals.” Anecdotally,there areawide range of reported positive side effects, including surges of happiness, smiles and love, tied to interacting with goats during aslowpractice likeyoga
Beforeadding goats, Naron
“Our reactions and perceptions are highlighted when interacting with animals.
explains it’s importantto rememberthat yoga was never intended as an exercise or hobby. “Yoga is meant to heal the mind and the body through mindful movement and breathing,” he says.“Many of the yoga asanas or body postures were developed by observing theanimal kingdom, and goats remind us of our humble roots.Wemustremember that the animals areheretohelp us learn about ourselves.Through the interactions we can accept our shortcomings and our flawed human nature.”
In 2017,Jim Naronand his son Jimmy Junior started Rocky Mountain Goat Yoga as a business venturetogive Colorado communities awholesome animal-based activity.“Over thelast fewyears, however, the program has developed intoan advocacyorganization and agoat rescue on amission to integrate goats intotherapy and give them great lives after recognizing many unethical practices in the farm communities,” Naronsays.
That shift was accelerated by feedback from animal activists, the USDA,health department and vegangroups who reached out with concerns over ethics and sanitation with goat yoga. “We listened to all of themand created our program with properethics andwiththeir voices in mind,” Naronsays. “And as we learned, we grew and implemented more fundamental policies.”
Othergoat yoga businesses will host goat yoga with babies and thensell themorgive them to 4-H programs, which means theyend up at an auction or in bad situations.“We don’t do this or condone it,” Naronsays. “We gatherpeople and preface their experience with education.”
With ethics andsafety in check, RMGY is expanding its offerings, including regular sessions in Longmont’s ParkwayFood Hall andseveral events northwest of Denver.
Beyond yoga,RMGYalso hosts Goatflix and Chill, amovie night where people hang out and watchagood flick with theirgoat buddy.There’s also dancing and walkaboutswith the furry friends and many othergoat-infused activities along the Front Range for adults and kids
But it all comes back to a root in yoga. “Our reactions and perceptions arehighlighted when interacting with animals.Weare all here to learn how to become betterbymindful interactions and observations,” says Naron. “If we practiced everyday we would love much longer.”
OUTDOOR GOAT YOGA
Vali Soul Sanctuary,Boulder, 9a.m.: Aug. 3&Sept. 7
BABY GOAT YOGA
ParkwayFood Hall, Longmont,9a.m.: July 13, Aug. 10 &Sept. 21
Plus events nearly every dayalong the Front Range, including Goatflix,Baby Goat Sound Bath, Goatstatic Dance, Sunset Baby Goat Yoga and more.Visit rockymountaingoatyoga.com to search for events near you.
Kaycee Kwang is pursuing projects with goats, poultry, swine, cats and dogs this year (Photo
By SARAH HUBER Longmont magazine
The most iconic participants in the BoulderCounty Fair may be the 4-H members exhibitingtheir livestock, craft and science projects.4-H club members County-wide have beengearing up
for this year’s fair sinceOctober, with nearly350 studentsfromages 5through18diving intogardening, cakebaking,archery,animal care and computer science projects, amongmany others.Livestock club members raise an animal to show, while otherspreparepresentations related to natural resource studies, consumerscience, mechanical
science and communications, art and leisurescience club projects
The 2024 BoulderCounty Fair will run from Aug. 7to11, and 4-H competitions and exhibitions fill the schedule eachday.
“4-H is the hallmark youth organization that connects kids with caring adults that are interested in those things that kids
areinterested in, whetherthat’s sport fishing or leathercraft or ceramics or photography,”said Faith Kroschel, BoulderCounty 4-H youth development and outreach specialist.Student projects are“the vehicle” for fostering leadership skills such as public speaking,goal setting and tracking finances
ForMatilda Garcia Stevenson, age 15, 4-H has encouraged her to followher passions.InAugust she will competeinshootingsports, thecavyshow(guinea pig) for herseventh time and herfirst dog show.She has presented alpacas and rabbits in the past and created scrapbooks and photoalbums as 4-H projects.She said, “I love that4-H gives me the opportunity to learn about things that Iam interested in. There is aproject for everyone, and you don’thavetolive on afarm in ordertoparticipate.”
All 4-H presentersmust keep a recordbook for theirprojects.They recordtheirtime spent working on the project, the costs associated with the project and, for livestock competitors, alog of the careof their animal. Students also write a story about their project, and the completed recordbook is judged “4-H is agreat program for youth. It has givenmesomuch confidence,” said GarciaStevenson. “Itisahardprogram, but youget out what you put intoit.”The four “H’s”ofthe 4-H cloveremblem andmotto come from themember pledge to serve the community and world with one’s head, heart,hands andhealth.
Kaycee Kwang,age 12, is pursuing projects with goats,poultry,swine, cats and dogs this year.Asmuch as
she is excitedtoshowher animals, she said she is even moreeager to watch herfriendspresent.“Ilove thecommunity andthe 4-H leaders that makeitsofun,”she said, adding,“4-H has helped me grow as aperson and helps me learn about taking responsibility.”
Outside the fair,4-H offers leadership conferencesfor students, regular club meetings, scholarships andinternational student exchange programs. Kwanghas participated in the 4-HColorado Leadership Camp,ColoradoState University Veterinary Camp in partnership with 4-H and 4-H Junior Jam. Adult volunteers provide instruction for projects, though clubs areprimarily run by students,
and 4-H club members arerequired to takepart in communityservice projects.“Ourprimary focus has always beentohelp create citizens that arewell-informedtomake good decisions to lead thenext generation,” explained Kroschel. At the BoulderCountyFair, fairgoers can check out 4-H project presentations, observe showmanship and animal quality competitions and catchshooting sports’ demonstrations.Those interested in 4-H can enroll in Octobertoexhibit at thefair next summer. “It’s absolutely nevertoo latetojoin,” said Kroschel. “There arealot of leadership and learning opportunitiesfor everyage.”
By Shelley Widhalm Longmont magazine
For nearly 60 years, Longmont Dairy has been delivering fresh milk to residents’ doorsteps, but nowit’s not just milk but another 20 or so local products.
“People likethe convenienceof receiving perishable itemsregularly. That way, theydon’t have to take trips to the storeasmuch,” said Katie Copeland, co-ownerand president of Longmont DairyFarm, Inc. “People appreciatebuying local from us and other businessesinthe area that we support.”
Copeland and herbrother,
Dan Boyd, co-owner andCEO of LongmontDairy,purchased thebusiness as third-generation owners in 2015 after growing up in it.Theyappreciated theoldfashioned idea of milk being deliveredinglass bottles, ensuring it has no supplemental rBST growth hormones.
In 2018, Copeland and Boyd expanded thedairy’s processing plant to include their ownfreshbrewed tea, cold brew coffee, coffee creamersand otherbottled products.Theyalso partnered with otherColorado vendors to be able to deliver itemslikeeggs, yogurt,bread and cookies, realizing theimportanceofinnovating and
bringing in newproducts as milk consumption continuestodecline internationally
Longmont Dairy delivers to thousands of customers from Loveland to Parker,mapping out the routes to certain times and days of the weekfor greater efficiency. Most of the deliveries aredoneat night whentraffic is lighter
“We’ve become very efficient doing speed routes at night and during the day,”Copeland said.
Customers leave their used glass bottles, and deliverydrivers pick themupand drop off newproducts in Longmont Dairy coolers.The bottles arethencleaned, sanitized and reused.
But customers aren’t locked into aschedule. Theycan manage their standing orders online, through an app or personally through customer service for any requested changes, such as for avacation.
“The milk is very fresh, roughly within 48 hours of thecowsbeing milked,” Copelandsaid. “Our customers saymilk tastes betterin glass bottles,and we can control the quality from start to finish.”
Over the years, the cows have beenatdifferent locations in Longmont and Loveland, and they arecurrently on afarm in Loveland, totaling morethan 500. The dairy delivers fivedaysaweek but is sure to bring in milk dailysincecows don’ttakedaysoff.
“Wehaveour owncows–that make us unique because we’rea producerand ahandler,”Copeland said. “Webottle and process our ownproduct.”
Milk Caps for Moola
Longmont Dairy gives back to
schools in its delivery area through itsMilk Caps for Moola program,
founded in 2012. The dairy donates 5cents for everycap turned in and, as of early 2024, donated $700,000 for the 14 millionth cap. Right now, 440 schools participateinthe program, but morecontinue to be added.
“Wedon’t reuse them; we just recycle them, thenwesendthema check,” Copeland said.
In the first year of the program, Longmont Dairy collected around 25,000 caps and nowcollects a weekly averageof40,000 caps The program helps fund field trips, sports and playground equipment, art supplies and iPads
“The schools and teachers need all the moneytheycan get to support the kids and theprograms,” Copeland said. “It’s afun wayfor kids to help their schools, and it’s an easy wayfor schools to make money.”
To sign up for the Milk Caps for Moola program, visit longmontdairy.com/mooola.html.
Asmuch as you love your pets and work hardto makethempart of the family,they’realso a big responsibility.Partofthat responsibility includessettingup your homesoit’s equal partsstylish (for you) and functional (for Fido) Showfurry friends alittlelove, beyond the walks and snuggles, by making your home morepet friendly
It’s common for pet owners to desireaspace to keep all their furry friends’ belongings and avoid clutter. Ensureconvenience and cleanliness by establishing an area near the door where you can storeleashes, collars, toys and more. Considerkeeping atowel or two nearbyfor wiping paws (and snouts) aftergoing outside. You can also keep your pets’ beds, food and water bowls in this space so it feels liketheir ownlittle“home”
when returning from awalk or going to sleepatnight.
From furnituretodecor,avoiding fabrics that attractpet hair is a no-brainerfor pet owners looking to escape aconstant mess.Silk and velvet arevirtual magnets for fur, while alternatives likeleatheroffer morepractical choices that areeasy to clean and durable.
Reduce your fear of zoomies causing damage to your floors by installing resilient flooring focused on reducing wear.Both durableand beautiful, avariety of Beautifully Responsible floors takeonsome of the burdenofpet ownership with built-in durability for the everyday and the unexpected. With options designed to bridge the gap between style and function, numerous water-resistant and waterproof floors give you and your pets room to live your best lives for years to come without wet shakestriggering worries.Plus, many resilient floors don’t flinch whenitcomes to addressing muddy paws,often only requiring the mud to be easily wiped away,without harsh cleaning products
With options designed to bridgethe gap betweenstyleand function, numerous water-resistant andwaterproof floorsgive you andyour petsroom to live your best lives for years to come without wet shakes triggeringworries.
Displaying Grandma’s fine Chinaand your favoritesports memorabilia maynot go hand-inhand with petownership –that autographed baseball maylook morelikeachewtoy than a treasured artifact.Instead, prioritize decorthat’swashable andsturdy so you can avoid coming home to a delicatefamily heirloom shattered on thefloor
If you plan on your pets being outside on their own, it’s agood idea to carefully inspect your outdoor spacesbefore lettingthem roam. Look for gaps in thefence, identify potentially harmful plants and ensureoutdoor structures like grills and furnitureare secure. Find pet-friendly flooring solutions at beautifullyresponsible.com.
It’s likely you want your pets to live their best lives without sacrificing your owngorgeous spaces.With avariety of attractive options to fit your aesthetic,Beautifully Responsible resilient flooring provides durability against dirt, spills and sprints.Consider these benefits of floors that fit yourstyle and give furry friends room for fun:
Once playtime outside is over, that mess can sometimes makeits way
inside.Designedto makecleanup easier, manyresilient flooring optionscan makeremoving messes, odors and pethair acinch. From sheet solutions to modular configurations, resilient flooring cantypically be cleanedwithout harsh chemicals– just make sure to followthe manufacturer’s recommendedcleaning instructions
Many Beautifully Responsible resilient floors aredurable enough to stand up to those zoomies. These options arereadyfor your
dogs’ and cats’ fastest sprints, and makefor quick clean up whenthey accidentally turn over afavorite flowerpot or their ownwater bowls
Those vigorous tail wags near a fresh bowl of water lead to even good boys and girls causing a spill nowand then. With many waterproof and water-resistant options for even the messiest of pets, you canbemoreconfident in resilient floors standing up to spills so you can forgive puppydog eyes even faster
familyfeatures
Welcoming anew pet is exciting,but preparation is needed to provide aloving home and enjoythe unconditional love.
Prepareyourfurry friend for a newhome with these essentialtips for first-time pet owners.
Consideryour living situation, work schedule and personal preferences.Research different breeds to findthe one that matches your activity level, living space and family dynamics.Also consider any allergies or sensitivities you or your family mayhaveassome
pets maytriggerallergiesorasthma symptoms
Beforebringing your newpet home, createasafe and comfortable environment.Start by petproofing your home,removing any hazardous substancesand securing loose wires or cords.Makesure
to storecleaning supplies, medications and toxic plants out of reach. Provide adesignatedspace that includes acozy bed or crate, food and water bowls and toys
Establish aconsistent schedule for feeding, exercise and bathroom breaks. Determine the appropriateamountand frequencyofmeals for your pet’s age, size and breed. Spend quality timewith your pet daily,providing attention, affection and mental stimulation.
Owning apet comes with financial responsibilities
Considerthe costs of food, grooming,veterinary care, vaccinations and preventive
medications.Additionally, factor in the cost of toys, bedding,litterand other supplies
Regular check-ups and open communication with alocal veterinarian can help detect any potential health issues early and ensure your pet receives the best possible care. Askfriends, family or neighborswith pets for providerrecommendations and read reviews.Visit potential veterinarians’ offices to meet thestaffs, tour the facilities and ask any questions you mayhave. Find moretips for welcoming afurry friend intoyour home at eLivingtoday.com.
By Matthew Bennett Longmont times-Call
Edited by Longmont Magazine
DocuPet, which allows people to license their cats and dogs, isnow the official pet licensingservice for Longmont, city officials announced in February
In Longmont, it is unlawful for anyone to “own, keep,harbor or possess any dog,Vietnamese pot-bellied pig or cat over the age of six months” that hasnot been licensed annually,according to city code. Such an offense carries with it amaximum penalty of up to $500 and imprisonmentofupto90days, or both, the code states
Because only cats and dogs may be licensed through DocuPet, an ownerofaVietnamese pot-bellied pig must contact an animal control officerthrough dispatch to have it licensed.
The newsystem allows registration onlineat longmontmontcolorado.gov/pets or by phone at 1.877.239.6072.
In-person pet licensing is also available at the Longmont Public Safety building,225 KimbarkSt., during lobbyhours
The pet licensingfees arethe same as they were previously —$15 for spayed and neutered dogs and cats and $25 for non-spayed and neutered ones.Asmall processing fee, though, will be added unless
aresident pays with cash or check at the Longmont Public Safety building
Once adog or cat has been registered, atag with thepet’s first name and aunique codewill be mailed to the animal’s ownerfor placement on the pet’s collar.
In the eventthat apet gets lost, anyone who finds it can enterthe code on the tagintoHomeSafe, a24/7 service at1.877.239.6072, to reunite the lost animal with its owner.
In December, the Longmont City Council agreed to allowpet licensing to go through DocuPet, largely due to the web-based program making the system easier. Petlicensing was previously handled by the Longmont Humane Society
“The city is consistently looking for ways to utilize taxpayer funds moreefficiently,” Robin Ericson, Longmont Public Safety
spokesperson, said in an email. Ericson said moreinformation would be available at theend of the year concerning howmuch thecity saved as aresult of theswitch
Longmont Humane Society Chief ExecutiveOfficer Russell Hinkle said in an email that thenonprofit organization’s focus is on thehealth and safety of the communityand its animals
“Asalongtime partnerwith Longmont, we were happytosell city licenses to all the petowners in Longmont, and we arealso happy to support (the city) as they do the same,” Hinkle said
The humane society did not generate any net revenuewhile selling licenses, according to Hinkle.
DocuPet provides pet licensing for morethan 180 communities across the United States and Canadaincluding in Boulder and Longmont, according to its website.
Tuition-free
Longmont's
Hands-on
By staff Longmont Magazine
For dog guardians in Longmont and Boulder County,the Voice and Sight Control TagProgram offers an opportunity to explore the great outdoors with their canine companions off-leash. Administered by the Boulder County Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP)Department, this program allows dogs to roam freely on designated trails, provided they
meet certain requirements and expectations
To participateinthe Voice and Sight Control TagProgram, dog guardians must meet several criteria and understand the responsibilities involved. Here’s what you need to know:
•Voice and SightTags: All Voice and Sight Tags expireon December31ofeach year and
must be renewed annually.New tags for the upcoming year can be purchased starting November 1. If you renewyour tagsbetween November1and December31, the newtag becomes active immediately and remains valid until the endofthe following year
•Voice and Sight Control
Defined: The program setsa highstandardfor off-leash dogs Guardians must control their dogs using voice commands and sight signals (such as hand gestures) underany circumstance. This means being able to preventthe dog from engaging in behaviors such as charging,chasing,ordisplaying aggression towardpeople, other dogs, wildlife, or livestock. The dog must also cometoand stay with the guardian immediately upon command.
•Complete the Voice &Sight Education Course: This free online course is mandatory everyfive years and covers legal requirements, tips for managing dogsoff-leash, and common scenarios.Attendance is verified during registration, so wait one business dayafter completing the course to register
•Provide aRabies Certificate: Ensureyour doghas acurrent and valid rabies vaccination certificate.
•Dog License: City of Boulder residents must have avalid dog license, which is required before registering for the Voice and Sight Program through DocuPet
•CreateaDocuPet Account: Register your dog and yourself on the DocuPet platform. The system will issue Voice and Sight Tags, which must be displayed on your dog’s collar at all times.
•CompleteRegistration and Payment: Finalize your registration on DocuPet and pay the required fees.Allow up to sevenbusiness days for the tags to be processed and mailed to you.
Voice and Sight Tags must be renewed annually,with discounts available for renewals between November1and January 31. The fees vary based on residency:
•City of Boulderresidents: $5 for renewal, $13 for initial registration.
•BoulderCounty residents (outside the city): $20 for renewal, $33 for initial registration.
•Non-BoulderCounty residents: $30 for renewal, $75for initial registration.
Additional fees applyfor extra guardians and dogs, but waivers are available for qualifying households in the City of Boulder. Formoreinformation, contact the Voice and Sight Program at voiceandsight@bouldercolorado govor303.441.3440.Toregister or manageyour account, visitDocuPet at info@docupet.com or call 877.239.6072.
Enjoythe freedom and adventure of BoulderCounty’sopenspaces responsibly withthe Voice and Sight Program,ensuring asafe and enjoyable experience for everyone on the trails.
Local animal sheltershave plenty of dogs waiting for newhomes, but if you choose to adopt from a privaterescue group, it helps to do some homework first
“Pets arebig business and very lucrative,”said Madeline Bernstein, president of SpcaLA. “So thereare a lotofscams out there.”
Alegitimategroup will quarantine its dogs for at least twoweeks to watch fordiseases suchasdistemperorparvovirus.The animals will be microchippedand, if old enough, spayedorneutered. They should also come witha vaccination record.
Beyond these basics, expertshave afew tips:
•Face-to-face. Bewareofrescue groups that ask you to adopt onlineorsight unseen. Don’t commit until you’ve spent afew minutes with an animal to get a feel for its healthand behavior
•Living conditions. Don’t adopt from agroup that wantstomeet in aparkinglot or otherpublic space. Bettertosee thefacility or foster home where thedog has beenstaying.Isitclean? Arethere individual spacesfor quarantining sickanimals?
• References. If previous adopters have had abad experience witha particular group, it will probably showuponthe internet.Same goes for good reviews
•Online records. Youcan check agroup’s nonprofit status on the IRS and stateattorneygeneral websites.City and county governments often keep an online registry of privaterescue partners that draw from their shelters. “Theyhaveawhole list of groups who aren’t hoarders, who aren’t frauds,” said Judie Mancuso of Social Compassion in Legislation.
•Read before you sign. Adoptions usually involve a contract, so read beforeyou sign. There should be aprovision for returning an animal if things don’t work out.There should be information about transferring the microchip numbertoyour name and address.
•Common sense. Adeal that seems toogood to be true probably is.AsBernstein said, “If aFrenchie costs $5,000 from abreederand you’regettingone for $500, that’s ared flag.”
©2024 Los Angeles Times. Visit at latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune ContentAgency, LLC.
By Rossmaak Longmontmagazine
Whenplanningfor yourfinancialfuture, somepeoplefocuson immediategoals,whileothersplan forthelong term. No matterwhere youareonthisjourney, HighPlains Bank’s Trust,Estate,and Investment Servicesdivisionishere to helpyou achieveyourobjectives.
We spokewith JaneM.Cox, SeniorVice PresidentandSenior Trust OfficeratHighPlainsBank, to discusshowtheyassistindividuals in reachingtheirfinancialandestate planninggoals.
Q:WhatisHighPlains Bank’s history?Howaboutinthe Longmontarea?
A: Flagler, Colorado, asmall agriculturalcommunityinKit CarsonCounty, iswhere High PlainsBank’sstorybegan.Thebank openedasFlaglerStateBankin 1908 andbecameThe First NationalBank of Flaglerin1920.After expanding to Bennettand Wiggins,it was renamed HighPlainsBank. In early2013, HighPlainsBank Longmontstartedin CEOJohn Creighton’sgaragewithfour entrepreneurial-mindedindividuals. By March11,2013,thebankopened itsdoorsat600KimbarkStreet.The Longmont teamhassincegrown to over 30full-timeemployees, introducingnewleadership and services to better support the
Longmontcommunity. In November2022,HighPlains Bankestablished adedicated Trust, Estate,andInvestment Services department,nowlocatedatthe historic385 MainSt.inDowntown Longmont.
Q:Whattypeof connectionhas your new Trust, Estate,andInvestment Servicesdepartmentallowedyou to make with thecommunity?
A: Offeringin-persontrust,estate, andinvestment servicesisanother waythat HighPlainsBankis positivelyimpactingcommunities andrepresentsthebank’svision of empoweringcustomers to optimize theirfinancialwellbeing.
Q:HowcanHighPlains Bank Trust, Estate,andInvestmentServiceshelp peoplewithpersonal trusts, estate anddecedent’strustadministration, investmentmanagement accounts, conservatorshipsandmanagedor self-directed IRA’s?
A: The Trust team’spriorityis to
listen andlearnabouteachclient’s uniqueneeds.Theyare ready to discussyourfinancialgoalsand priorities,whichmayinclude: creditorprotectionforlovedones, possiblesupportfor afavorite charity,assetmanagement, orasset protectionforbeneficiaries.
Theygobeyondmanagingyour assets.Theyare committedto helpingindividualsandfamilies plan effectivelyforthefutureand buildlegaciesforgenerationsto come.
Q:Howbigofanimpactdoes it make having ateamcomprisedoflocal residentswhoareinvolved in the Longmont,northernColorado,and easternplains communities?
A: The Trust team’scombined experience andconsistsof experienced professionals withdeepcommunityties throughoutLongmont, northern Colorado,andtheEasternPlains. The Trust,Estate,and Investment Servicesdepartmentisanother
waythat High Plains Bank is positively impacting our communities and represents our vision of doing the right things for ourcustomers
High Plains Bank is employee owned and community driven. This means we are deeply connected and committedtohelping our branch communities and customers to thrive. TheTrust, Estate, and Investment Services department shares these values and is proud to be
part of the dedicated and community-involved team ofprofessionals
The Trust, Estate, and Investment Services team would love theopportunity to meet and explorehow theymay partnerwithyou foryour trust, estateor investment needs
Plains Bank Trust, Estate, and Investment Services, 385 Main St., Longmont, 720.340.7001 hpbgo.com/trust-estate-andinvestment-services
Mark your calendars and explorea variety of events happening in and around Longmont through theend of summer.
JULY17-20
Watchmasterful chainsaw carvers transform giant logs into beautiful works of artatthis exciting competition. Enjoyfamily entertainment and food trucks (Chuckwagons) daily.Event held at Centennial Park, 630EighthSt., Frederick. More info at frederickco.gov.
JULY17, 24, 31; AUG. 7, 14, 30 4:30 TO 8:30 P.M.
Enjoysunset with family,friends, chairs, and blankets while listening to fantastic localbands starting at 5:30p.m. Explorefarm activities and meet the animals, with food trucks available. Held at SunflowerFarm, 11150 Prospect Road, Longmont. For details, call 303.774.8001 or visit sunflowerfarminfo.com.
AUGUST3•2-7 P.M.
Join us for the 2nd annual Fly Fishing Festival, aFREE community eventfeaturing local businesses, non-profits, artists, and musicians, all celebrating fly fishing and supporting agreat cause. Located at Left Hand Brewing BeerGarden, 1245 Boston Ave., Longmont More info at anglessports.com.
AUGUST4•8A.M.TO8P.M.
CelebratePeru’s Independence at the Longmont Peruvian Festival with authentic food, live entertainment, folkloric dances and performances by national and international artists.This event unites Peruvian, LatinAmerican
and American communities. Held at Sandstone Ranch Park, 3001 CO-119, Longmont.Detailsat peruvianfestivallongmont.com.
AUGUST7-11• 5P.M.(AUG. 7);
DAILY10 A.M. TO 11 P.M.
Experience the 155thBoulder County Fair with live music, carnival rides, livestock, petting zoo, fair food, CPRA Rodeo, bull fighting, demolition derbyand more! Free admission; some events requiretickets. Located at BoulderCounty Fairgrounds, 9595 Nelson Road, Longmont.Visit bouldercountyfair.org for more information.
AUGUST9-11
Join world-class songwritersfor three daysofmusic,camping and inspiration at the Rocky Mountain Folks Festival in Lyons.More detailsatbluegrass.com/folks
AUGUST23•4-9 P.M.
CelebrateLongmont at Unity in the Community! This annual
eventbythe Longmont Chamber is avibrant festival showcasing the city’s people,businesses, artsand culture. Enjoy music, entertainment andactivitiesfor allages at this free, family-friendly event. Located in DowntownLongmont.For more details, visit longmontchamber.org/ unity.
AUGUST24
Experience the energyofriding with hundreds of womenatVenus de Miles. Celebrateyour love of cycling with this memorable event Held at Bohn Park, Lyons.For more information, visit venusdemiles com
SATURDAYSTHROUGHNOV.16
8A.M.TO1P.M
Explorefresh produce at the historic BoulderCounty Fairgrounds.The Longmont market features over 120 local producers and artisans, drawing up to 60,800 visitors each season. Free admission. Located at 9595 Nelson Road, Longmont. More info at bcfm.org/markets/ longmont-farmers-market.
Introducing our upcoming season, “Sound in Motion” featuring works by Gershwin, Bernstein, Strauss, Brahms, Bach, and many more. Reser ve your seats for the season!
