SUMMER 13
Volume 1 | Issue 3
inside: Vacation with your Pet
SURE, AT FIRST I WAS A LITTLE TAKEN ABACK BY THE WHOLE PEEING STANDING UP THING. BUT I TAUGHT HIM TO THROW A STICK AND NOW HANGING OUT WITH HIM IS THE BEST PART OF MY DAY. — EINSTEIN adopted 12-09-10
‌ r e v o c e h t n o Sadie is a Cocker Spaniel mix who was rescued from Madison Animal Rescue Foundation.
Rocket City Pets magazine is a free, quarterly publication in the Huntsville, Alabama region, supported by advertising from local pet related businesses and services.
Publisher & Editor Tia Wheeler Graphic Design & Layout Kalico Design www.kalicodesign.com
Cover photo by Alisa Koken. Contributing Writers Rob Adams Betty Boyd Tia Wheeler
Facebook.com/RocketCityPets A published advertisement does not constitute an endorsement of VECTORBUTTONS. COM products or services. Rocket City Pets reserves the right to refuse advertising at any time and for any reason. In particular, we do not accept advertising relating to the sale of animals; this is an affirmation of our commitment to pet adoption. All content in Rocket City Pets is intended for informative and entertainment purposes. For issues relating to animal health and wellbeing, please consult your veterinarian. Information provided in this issue was obtained from sources deemed reliable, and should be considered accurate at time of publication.
256.682.4742 /AlisaKokenPhotography
Rocket City Pets P.O. Box 22254 | Huntsville AL 35814 256-6828362 | info@rocketcitypets.com RocketCityPets.com
www.rocketcitypets.com | Summer 2013
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community Spotlight
|By Betty Boyd |
Therapy Partners, Inc. Therapy Partners, Inc. was founded in 1994 by Connie Gates and Mimi Bynum, and is currently celebrating 19 years of service to the Huntsville community. Their mission is to serve the community by providing certified teams of handlers and animals to work as therapeutic tools in hospitals, schools, long-term care facilities and other appropriate settings. The five main programs are: PAW-Partners Achieving Wellness; PALPartners Achieving Literacy; RRT- Rapid Response Team; WAGS-Wait, Ask, Greet Safely; and, PIC-Partners in the Community. Therapy Partners has trained handlers
and canine and feline teams, that have participated in the lives of over 64,000 residents in the Huntsville-Madison area. Anne Sentell is the Acting Executive Director, and also handles public relations and fund raising events for Therapy Partners. Anne and her dog Weezy, a goldendoodle, volunteer at Health-South Rehabilitation Hospital. Sentell states “it has been scientifically proven that dogs slow down blood pressure and improve peoples emotional levels.� Kind Hearts Behavior Center, an affiliated obedience school, helps funding by offering pet training. Other funding comes from individual contributions, grants and fund raisers. They are always looking for volunteers and contributions and their contact information is:
Therapy Partners, Inc. (256) 881-5700 1015 A Cleaner Way Huntsville AL 35805 www.therapypartners.org
4 Summer 2013 | Rocket City Pets Magazine
Editor’s Note Meet the Breed: Cocker Spaniel Second Chances Take Your Dog to Work Day Vacationing With Your Pet From Our Readers Events Calendar Directory Listings Nutmeg’s World Subscription Form
Several times she has accompanied me on flights. In fact, Nutmeg was in Austin when I rescued her, so I flew from DC in the morning, picked her up, and we flew back that night. She is so well behaved on the flights and she charms the security agents that have to screen her. I think that I am quite lucky to have such a well behaved dog, who rarely barks or whines, as this makes it easier for me to bring her along with me when I travel. The cat however is a whole other story, one involving lots of cries for help and escape attempts! Happy Tails, Tia
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|contents |
Some people may call me an ‘overprotective parent,’ but I hate to leave Nutmeg alone for long. I take her with me as often as possible — to work and on vacation. The main reason for my concern is her history of being in a puppy mill. She and I have worked so hard to rehabilitate her that I am cautious of placing her in any situations that could cause regression. So she frequently goes on car rides with me, ranging from errands around town to 12 hour trips to visit ‘grand-ma.’ Nutmeg is a great traveler; she is not bothered by her seat-belt harness and happily curls up in her bed, watching me drive.
editor’s note
Editor’s Note
18 20 22 23 www.rocketcitypets.com | Summer 2013 5
Meet the Breed: Cocker Spaniel The Cocker Spaniel has been in the United States since the early colonial period. Over the years, the American Cocker Spaniel diverged from its larger cousin, the English Cocker Spaniel, and it is now the smallest breed of Sporting Dogs, standing 13.5 to 15.5 inches tall, and weighing 25 to 30 pounds. The two most recognizable characteristics of the Cocker Spaniel are their rounded heads with dark, round eyes and the feathery fur on their ears, legs and belly. Cocker Spaniels come in three
varieties of colors: black; ASCOB - any solid color other than black (cream, brown and red); and, parti-color (any allowed solid color on a white background). Because they were originally bred as a hunting dog, Cocker Spaniels continue to need lots of exercise. They tend to have a happy, friendly disposition, and are generally easy to train because of their great need to please people. They get along well with children and other animals, so the Cocker Spaniel makes a great family pet, as long as the dog understands its subordinate position within the household. Cocker Spaniels are susceptible to a variety of hereditary problems, including cataracts, glaucoma, and patellar luxation.Â
u know‌ did yoThe American Cocker
Spaniel is the smallest breed of Sporting Dogs.
6 Summer 2013 | Rocket City Pets Magazine
second chances ty madison coun rescue dogs of n castellano
donna mcpherso
Second Chances Set your calendar for the Greater Huntsville Humane Society (GHHS) book release party, debuting the book, “Second Chances: The Rescue Dogs of Madison County” written by celebrated author, Donna Castellano. The party will take place on Thursday, August 29 at Baron’s Bluff at the Burritt from 6:30 - 9:30pm. Several dogs featured in the book will be presented during the evening. Guests will enjoy drinks, delicious gourmet bites, and music during the course of the evening. Please join GHHS to kick off their capital campaign to acquire funds for a new state-of-the-art shelter! For more information, please call GHHS at 256-881-8081 or www.greaterhuntsvillehumanesociety.org.
Second Chances is a coffee table book about rescue dogs and their adopted families!
Also, be sure to visit the special Facebook page for for a behind the scenes look at the creation of this magical book. Follow the story behind the stories and photographs of the amazing dogs and beautiful Madison County locations. www.facebook.com/SecondChances. RescueDogsOfMadisonCounty
join us!
Who: Greater Huntsville Humane Society What: Second Chances Book Release Where: Baron’s Bluff at the Burritt When: August 29, 2013 Time: 6:30 - 9:30pm www.rocketcitypets.com | Summer 2013
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Take Your Dog to Work Day: June 21, 2013 Pets in an office or business is not a new concept. How many elementary schools had or have a pet hamster? But as our pets become integrated family members, an increasing number of workers want to bring the dogs to the office. A recent survey by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association found that one in five American businesses allow pets. This number has grown rapidly as studies have shown that pets help create a more relaxed and friendlier atmosphere, in addition to increasing creativity and productivity. Hundreds of dogs go to work daily at large companies such as Google and Amazon; in the Huntsville area you can find several retail shops with a furry greeter.
8 Summer 2013 | Rocket City Pets Magazine
National Take Your Dog to Work Day is an opportunity for businesses to witness the benefits of four legged ‘employees.’ Before you participate, be certain to check the policy of your employer; if they are not already participating you can provide your manager with an Action pack found on the national website at http://www.takeyourdogtoworkday.com/Get-Involved/win-overyour-boss.php You may need to spearhead the effort, so they offer many resources and suggestions of fun activities.
§§ Verify with Management that you can bring your dog. §§ When you arrive, walk your dog around the office or store, allowing them to become familiar with the sights, sounds, and smells. §§ Provide a quiet, comfortable spot for your dog to relax. §§ Take your dog for frequent walks outside, to avoid any accidents. If you have a dog that urinates when
excited or scared, consider using a belly wrap or diaper (yes, they look silly, but they do help).
take dog to work
For those of you taking your dog to work on June 21, here are a few tips to ensure an event free day:
§§ Remember that not everyone adores dogs (I know, shocking!). Keep your pup under control. Just one incidence of misbehaving can ruin future opportunities for other pets coming to the workplace. §§ Leave rowdy Rover at home, and instead bring in pictures to share.
While Friday is Take Your Dog to Work Day, some offices allow non-canine pets to visit on other days of that week. Check with management, or try to organize a way to celebrate all pets.
www.rocketcitypets.com | Summer 2013
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Vacationing With Your Pet Summer may be the season of vacation, but caring for a pet while you’re away is a year round dilemma. Rocket City Pets is pleased to provide a two part article on travel and pet care. This first part focuses on taking your pet along on vacation, including pet-centric options. In our next issue, we will cover the many choices owners face when travelling without their furry companions.
General Travel Advice §§ Make sure your pet has a collar on at all times, and that the collar includes a cell phone number. A collar and tag will be of little assistance if the person who finds your pet is calling your home phone number.
10 Summer 2013 | Rocket City Pets Magazine
§§ Carry a copy of each animal’s vaccinations. Federal laws require a rabies vaccination certificate when traveling between states. §§ Pack a ‘doggy bag” — no, not for leftovers. Providing your pet with familiar items and foods will minimize the stress of travel. Include: food and treats; bottled water; bowls; waste bags; brushes and cleansing wipes; a favorite bed or blanket; a variety of tried and true toys; contact information for your veterinarian; medications and first aid supplies; and, just in case of a problem, a clear, recent photo of the animal.
pet vacations
Hitting the Road… Whether you are driving to the beach or taking the Great American Family road trip across America, your pets can certainly be a welcome addition, with a little planning. Here are some basic rules for the road with Fido or Fluffy. §§ No animal should be loose in the vehicle. A secure crate is the best option preventing a cat from perching atop the driver’s head or a dog from deciding it’s laptime with the driver. And if your pet becomes car sick cleaning up is easier. §§ If your pet likes to be part of the family and has traveled well in the past you can consider a harness secured by a seatbelt. §§ Not only is a crate or harness safer for your pet, in some places, such as the State of New Jersey, it is the law.
§§ Do not feed your dog or cat a few hours before and during car travel (to avoid carsickness) but do provide water. §§ Never leave your pet unattended in a car on a hot day (above 75 degrees). If you want to make a visit where pets are not allowed use local resources to find a boarding facility or drop them off at a near-by groomers for a bath and trim. §§ Plan regular breaks by locating fun stops, such as dog parks, pet friendly restaurants, or hiking trails. Several websites cater to us and our pets by listing pet friendly attractions (see the resources at the end of the article). Be sure to help fellow traveler’s plan their vacations by adding information as you come across it.
www.rocketcitypets.com | Summer 2013 11
Hitting the Hay… Happily, more and more hotels are becoming pet friendly, ranging from permitting pets in guest rooms to provide a ‘Bed and Biscuit’ service, complete with walks and gourmet meals. The Kimpton hotels sends your pet a welcome email from the Director of Pet Relations. If you are heading to see Mickey and friends in Orlando, your pet can join you for the road trip, and then board at Best Friends Pet Care at Walt Disney World, located centrally. There are several dog focused accommodations nationwide. You can rent a cabin at Buckwell’s in Asheville NC, your water pup can enjoy the offerings of Dog Beach at Daggett Lake in NY, or you and your dog can attend sleep-away camp at Winnaribbun I Lake Tahoe NV. Do you have a dog-crazy child? How about a summer camp where the kids learn dog training and medical skills, either with their own pet or a loaner? Two such camps are Family Dog Club’s ‘K9 and Kids’ in Chesapeake VA and University of Doglando in Orlando FL.
12 Summer 2013 | Rocket City Pets Magazine
pet vacations
F lying High… While most US airlines allow ‘domestic animals’ on planes, for an additional cost; however, there are two widely varying options. Small pets (generally under 15 or 20 lbs) may travel in the airline cabin with passengers. The pet in a carrier counts as the passenger’s carry on item. While there are some rules to follow (check with individual airlines), this is a generally worry-free option. Larger animals must fly in the cargo hold, and certain Brachycephalic breeds, such as Pugs and Bulldogs, are banned due to potential breathing problems. The air is a cargo hold is not pressurized to the same level as the cabin, and no one is available to assist an animal is respiratory distress. An additional concern is how the airlines attend to animals during loading and unloading. Sadly in 2012 there were several high profile cases of dogs being left unattended on hot tarmacs and subsequently dying. To minimize the risks, avoid flights during summer and winter months, opt for non-stop and provide a bowl or bottle of frozen water.
Resources… Barkwells.com Cabins in NC
DogGoes.com Dog Park Finder for iPhone
BestFriendsPetCare.com Disney World pet boarding
DogPark.com
BringFido.com CampW.com Human and dog camp in NV
DogTrekker.com FamilyDogClub.com Kid’s camp HikeWithYourDog.com
DaggettLake.com Campsites and Cabin in NY
PetTravel.com
DogFriendly.com
UniversityOfDoglando.com Kid’s camp
www.rocketcitypets.com | Summer 2013 13
DIY for your pet
u By:
Brought to Yo
supplies
• 1 Used Shirt or Pair of Pants • 1 Tennis Ball • Utility Knife • Scissors • Tweezers/Pliers
Recycled Tug Toy
1. Cut three 12”-18” long strips of 6” wide used shirt or pants. Cotton & denim fabrics work best. 2. Carefully cut a 1⁄2” slot on each side of an old tennis ball. Insert a fabric strip; if needed, use tweezers or pliers to pull through the fabric. Repeat with the other two fabric strips.
3. Even out the fabric strips and tie a knot on one end, leaving about a 1” end. Push the ball tightly against the knot. 4. Braid the three pieces on the other end of the ball. Tie off that end. 5. Spend quality time with your pup. 8331 Madison Blvd, Ste., 200B Madison AL 35758 | 256-705-GEAR
www.mindgearlabs.com
(4327)
reader
… s o t o h p
“BB”
2 yr Old Maine Coon Mix
Contributed by: Louisa Martin Turbo was an orphan at SNAP around two years ago. I was lucky enough to adopt him, and his name has changed to BB. He is a Maine Coon mix, 2yrs old and about 15lbs of pure spoiled love.
“Crimson” 17 mo Old English Bulldog Contributed by: Brandy Frasier Crimson means the world to his mommy and daddy! On the left is when he visited his Grandfather at his job at Lowe’s. On the right is at his house (which he runs). He takes after his mommy and poses for the camera. Crimson is a HUGE Alabama fan!!
see youinr poetur magazine!
Send a high resolution photo of your pet including its name and yours and you may see it featured in an upcoming issue of Rocket City Pets.
Email the photo and information to info@rocketcitypets.com
16 Summer 2013 | Rocket City Pets Magazine
reader photos “Dori” 3 yr Old Pembroke Welsh Corgi Contributed by: Leslie Gene Reed
“Sprocket” 1 yr Old Mixed Breed Lounging on the patio, observing my planting skills as the new patio garden gets underway. Contributed by: Kim Roach
“Presley” & “Sophie”
This is Presley and Sophie. They are the biggest babies ever. They are big ol’ lap dogs and have brought so much joy to our family!
Contributed by: Kevin, Kim, David, & Kristina Knight
“Chloe” Cat We adopted her from a shelter in Tullahoma, TN in 2011. Contributed by: Ashley Gessler
www.rocketcitypets.com | Summer 2013 17
events Local Events Friday, June 21 National Take Your Dog To Work Day For More Info: www.takeyourdogtowork.com Check your workplace’s policy first!
Sunday, June 23 Rocket City Pride — Pet Pageant Time: 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm Location: The Roundhouse (Huntsville’s Historic Depot), 398 Monroe Street Northwest, Huntsville, AL For More Info: www.rocketcitypride.info
Saturday, June 29 The Bill Youkey Memorial Golf Tournament to Support The ARK Time: 4:45pm Location: Sunset Landing For More Info: For details, please call 256-851-4088
Friday July, 26 Therapy Partners Inc. Dog Days of Summer For More Info: For an invitation, please call 256-881-5700
18 Summer 2013 | Rocket City Pets Magazine
July 19 – August 4 Hot Dogs and Cool Cats Pet Photo Contest Parkway Place Mall Location: Parkway Place Mall and Online For More Info: For details, call GHHS at 256-881-8081, or enter and vote on-line at www.calendarcontest.org Voting at the Parkway Place Mall starts at 10 am on July 21st. Online Voting ends at 5pm , August 5th with the Grand Finale at 6pm.
Thursdays Throughout August and September Cocktails and Dog Tails. Time: 5pm to dusk Location: Huntsville Botanical Garden
Thursday, August, 29 Greater Huntsville Humane Society (GHHS) Book Release Party Time: 6:30-9:30 Location: Baron’s Bluff at the Burritt Greater Huntsville Humane Society (GHHS) book release party for “Second Chances: The Rescue Dogs of Madison County” by Donna Castellano.
events
National Events Entire Month of June Adopt a Shelter Cat Month (Brought to you by ASPCA) For More Info: www.aspca.org/adoption/ adopt-a-shelter-cat-month
Monday, July 15 National Pet Fire Safety Day Sponsored by the The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), ADT Security Services and the American Kennel ClubÂŽ (AKC)
August 4-10, 2013 International Assistance Dog Week (IADW) For More Info: www.assistancedogweek.org
Thursday, Aug. 1 DOGust Universal Birthday for Shelter Dogs The North Shore Animal League America, the world’s largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization, declared August 1 as a birthday for all the shelter animals whose birthdays are unknown. Happy DOGust!!
Monday, Aug. 26 National Dog Day From the Animal Miracle Network For More Info: www.nationaldogday.com
National Dog Day celebrates shelter dogs.
For more Pet Holidays, visit www.dogtipper.com/fun/pet-holidays
www.rocketcitypets.com | Summer 2013 19
directory Animal Rescue and Advocates Athens Limestone Animal Shelter 256-771-7889 1701 Highway 72 East Athens AL 35611 City of Madison – Animal Control 100 Hughes Rd. Madison AL 35758 256-722-7190 www.madisonal.gov Greater Huntsville Human Society 2812 Johnson Road SW Huntsville AL 35805 256-881-8092 www.greaterhuntsvillehumanesociety.org Huntsville Animal Services 4950 Triana Blvd. Huntsville AL 35801 256-883-3782 www.huntsvilleal.gov/animal Madison County Animal Control 3210-D Hi-Lo Circle Huntsville AL 35811 256-532-1651 www.madisoncountyal.gov North Alabama Spay/Neuter Clinic 3303 N. Memorial Parkway Huntsville, AL 35810 256-489-0418 www.nalspayneuter.org
20 Summer 2013 | Rocket City Pets Magazine
Peace, Love & Animals – No-Kill Rescue 256-233-4343 19135 Nuclear Plant Road Tanner, AL 35671 www.peaceloveandanimals.org Petlinker, Inc. 256-694-5307 www.Petlinker.org SNAP – Spay Neuter Action Project PO Box 4450 Huntsville AL 35815 256-830-8459 www.snapalabama.org The Ark 256-851-4088 139 Bo Cole Road Huntsville AL 35806 www.arkinc.org Therapy Partners, Inc. (256) 881-5700 1015 A Cleaner Way Huntsville, AL 35805 www.therapypartners.org
General Pet Services Pet Sitters At My Home Pet Sitter Service 256-683-9121 Dorothy The Pet Nanny 256-679-1386
Pet Supplies Goin’ to the Dogs Pet Supply & Self-Serve Dog Wash 814 Wellman Ave Huntsville, AL 35801 256.489.3707 www.petsupplyhsv.com
Just for Dogs Dog Trainers Kind Hearts Behavior Center 256-881-5700 1015 A Cleaner Way Huntsville, AL 35805 www.kindhearts.org Muttly Manners & More: In Home Pet Dog Obedience Training 256-755-0386 www.muttlymannersand more.com Such a Good Dog 4001A Holmes Ave. Huntsville AL 35816 256-890-1234 www.suchagooddog.org
Medical Winchester Road Animal Hospital 256-859-5511 1479 Winchester Road Huntsville AL www.winchesterroadanimalhospital.com
directory
listings Other Pet Friendly Businesses Photographers S&S Photography 256-533-0088 2365 Whitesburg Drive South Huntsville AL 35801 www.snsphoto.net Alisa Koken Photography 256-682-4742 Randall Peek Photography 256-374-3737 www.randallpeek.com
General MindGear Labs 256-705-GEAR (4327) www.mindgearlabs.com
submit your listing…
Add your business to this directory so people can find you—we are looking for business such as: • Animal Rescues & Advocates • Pet Sitters • Animal Trainers • Animal Hospitals • Veterinarians • Animal Friendly Lodging • Animal Friendly Restaurants • And More!
Contact sales@rocketcitypets.com for information. Animal non-profits get a free directory listing. www.rocketcitypets.com | Summer 2013 21
nutmeg’s world
Nutmeg’s World Lots of dog experts talk about the importance of proper socialization, and I think that I am starting to understand what they mean… My early life was very lonely, with most of my time spent in a small cage. When I went to live with Alpha, I was scared of everything. Alpha was nice about it and told people that I was ‘timid’ but the truth is, I was really scared — of movement, of noises, of being alone, of being too close to anyone. At first Alpha was at home most of the time, and gradually I started to trust her enough to sleep in bed with her — starting with the other side. Next we started to go to dog parks — the first time was so scary that I forgot I was still leery of Alpha and spent the whole time hiding behind her. I saw how much fun the other dogs were having and I tried to be brave and play with them. Most of the time it is lots of fun, but sometimes I still get overwhelmed and head to the gate so that Alpha can take me home to my safe and comfy bed. Alpha started working away from home, I would get scared by myself, but then she started taking me to work with her. At first
22 Summer 2013 | Rocket City Pets Magazine
I spent most of the time in my bed, away from the people. One day I smelled food and ventured outside her office. There were lots of people, but the food smelled so good that I kept going. All the people were so nice to me, even the ones who did not give me treats. Gradually I started spending more time walking around the office, occasionally letting people scratch my belly. There are still times when a loud noise sends me running to my bed for comfort, but I have come to realize that the world is not so scary and people are not so bad. And people food is yummy — someone should tell Alpha that.
- Nutmeg
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INSIDE: PET PRODUC T CONTES T WINNER
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9th Annual
Pet Photo Contest
July 20-August 4
Parkway Place Mall
The Greater Huntsville Humane Society (GHHS) is very excited to announce the 9th annual Hot Dogs & Cool Cats Pet Photo Contest and Fundraiser. The photo receiving the most votes will be honored as the cover pet for our 2014 Hot Dogs & Cool Cats Calendar. There will also be 14 featured pets of the month, 70 pets of the week, and 3 “Photographers” Choice Awards.”
That’s 88 chances to get YOUR pet in the calendar! Of course, the real winners will be the shelter animals in our care. GHHS, a no-kill shelter, finds homes for hundreds of pets annually and is supported entirely by public donations, our Thrift Shop, and Fundraisers. We receive no tax dollars, government funds, or funds from an national humane organization. Contest proceeds will allow GHHS to continue to provide a safe haven and quality of medical care for homeless animals throughout our community.
1. $10 entry fee: y tr n E 2 Options! 2. $20 entry fee:
Enters your photo in the contest at Parkway Place Mall or ON-LINE (available July 1)
Enters your pet and adds 15 votes (a $25 dollar value).
For more information call GHHS at 256-881-8081 Enter and vote on-line at
www.calendarcontest.org