Animals in the Spotlight

Rhode Island PBS online series highlights the work of rescue leagues and more

By Belinda Jones

RHODY PET OF THE MONTH: ARNOLD

By Karen Kalunian

Calling all hound lovers –Arnold’s contagious smile, golden eyes, and long legs are just a few of his best traits! This two-year-old hound mix is a stunner with a white-and-tan coat, and his zest for life will keep you on your toes. If you like going on long walks and exploring new hiking trails, Arnold is the pup for you. In true hound fashion, he’s very smart and likes to be busy, so a fencedin yard would be best. Once he’s enjoyed playtime, he’ll happily cozy up with you. Schedule an appointment to visit Arnold at Heart of RI Animal Rescue in Cranston by calling 401-467-3670, or visit HeartOfRI.org

If you have been thinking of adopting or if you know of an animal in need, please contact Karen directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com.

Every month animal advocate Karen Kalunian lovingly highlights an adoptable Rhody Pet of the Month on these very pages. Every week, pet lovers can also tune in to her Rhode Island PBS digital series, Animal Talk .

The idea for the 26 bite-sized episodes first came over a year ago when show producer Scott Saracen took his family to the East Greenwich Animal Protection League Heart of RI shelter hoping to find a puppy pal for their dog Ryder. Kalunian introduced them to “little princess” Bella, and during the meet and greet, they got chatting about all things animal welfare. Saracen’s wife Maria (also a producer at Rhode Island PBS) grew up on a game reserve in South Africa surrounded by domestic and wild animals, so there was much to discuss. Soon the plan for a show evolved, designed to educate, entertain, and inspire.

“I’m always looking for new ways to promote adoptable animals, and the wonderful people who care for them, and with digital streaming, we are able to bring them all directly into your home,” Kalunian enthuses.

Each episode is just three to four minutes long but can pack quite a punch – take sweet Sesame from Handsome Dan’s Rescue, a local shelter for pit bulls. “His transition from a pit bull dog fighting ring to a warm, safe home is a moving and powerful story,” Saracen notes. Kalunian concurs, “He really is the epitome of strength, resilience, and the will to love again.”

Saracen also speaks about the lasting impression made by a 42-year-old blind hyacinth macaw named Count, featured on an episode educating about bird health at Warwick’s Rhode Island Parrot Rescue. Another installment dives into the effectiveness of the trap neuter release cat program run by PawsWatch.

“The animal experts offer so much insight, as well as helpful tips,” Kalunian observes. “For example, if we find injured wildlife, our first inclination may be to offer food or water, but it is best to immediately contact a trained wildlife rehabilitator, like Sweet Binks Rescue.”

“Animal Talk is a great way to learn about the Rhode Island organizations that are doing so much good in the community,” says Saracen. “You may even feel motivated to join the volunteers doing this important, fulfilling work. I have to say when it comes to animals, we are a small state with a big heart!” Learn more at Watch.RIPBS.org/show/animal-talk/