PET GUIDE KANE
COUNTY GUIDE TO ALL THINGS PETS!
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CRITTERS P E T
S H O P
Matching People and Pets Since 1988!
224.856.5780
566 Randall Road • South Elgin
located in between Target and Caputo’s Fresh Market
OPEN during Covid-19 • 11-6 Mon-Sat • 11-5 Sunday
Pets & Supplies Natural Foods Raw Foods SM-CL1787719
Rescue Pets Aquarium Sales Tropical Fish
www.CrittersPetShopInc.com
What’s inside GREAT PLACES TO ADOPT A PET............................................. 4 HELP IS OUT THERE FOR STRUGGLING PET OWNERS.................... 6 SMART STEPS TO MANAGE CAT ALLERGENS AT HOME............................. 7 4 EASY STEPS TO AN ORGANIC BACKYARD ................................................ 8 GOING TO THE DOGS..........................10
333 N. Randall Road, Suite 1 St. Charles, IL 60174 630-232-9222 kcchronicle.com
SM-CL1788139
all the LOVE
2423 Fargo Blvd | 630-283-1700
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.C
HA R L
ES SINCE 1911
PA
R
K
CT
: stcparks.org/dog-p o f n i e r o m arks For
ST
daily • 9am to dusk FREE! Open (weather & conditions permitting)
Dogs and their owners can choose from THREE places in town to run, play and socialize with others. Dogs must be supervised at all times, be current on all vaccinations, and have current rabies tags worn and visible. Maximum two dogs per person allowed. Dog owners visiting the park are asked to clean up after their pets, fill in any holes dug, and not bring food into the park. Dogs must be on a leash while in the parking lot.
DISTR
I
E t Side East Sid Sports Complex
Ri River Bend B d Community Park
James J O. O B Breen Community Park
Access via the parking lot off Commerce Drive
Courier & Geneva Aves
Campton Hills & Peck Roads
• 3/4 acre dog park • 5-foot chain link fence • separate area specifically for smaller dogs • doggy water fountain • double-gated security entrance
• 21⁄2-acre fenced dog park • doggy water fountain • double-gated security entrance • dog-friendly equipment and activity stations • separate area specifically for smaller dogs
• 3/4 acre dog park • 5-foot chain link fence • interactive play features with mulch surface • access to the site’s pond • separate area specifically for smaller dogs
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S
Pet Adoption
helters and animal rescues are full of wonderful animals just waiting on a forever home. Adopting a pet can mean lower costs, and often the animals already are trained and housebroken. Here is a list of local organizations where you can find the perfect pet for your family. Check them out online, and call for hours and details:
Fur Angels Animal Sanctuary Aurora FurAngelsAS.com
Kane County Animal Control 4060 Keslinger Rd., Geneva KaneCountyPets.com
Animal House Shelter 13005 Ernesti Road, Huntley AnimalHouseShelter.com
A Heart for Animals PO BOX 986, Huntley AHeartForAnimals.org
A Little R&R Animal Sanctuary Elgin RR-Sanctuary.org
Aurora Animal Control and Care Facility 600 S. River Road, Aurora Aurora-il.org/animalcontrol/
Paws and Purrs Humane Society PO Box 541, Montgomery PawsAndPurrs.org
The Barn on Baseline 16173 Baseline Road, Genoa TheBarnOnBaseline.org
Help a Pooch Rescue Algonquin HelpAPoochRescue.com HELP-Homes for Endangered and Lost Pets PO Box 972, St. Charles HelpingAnimals.org Hoof, Woof and Meow Animal Rescue 129 E. Higgins, Gilberts HoofWoofMeow.org Humane Society of Aurora 2112 W. Galena Blvd., Ste 8 #472, Aurora HumaneSocietyofAurora.org
Rescue Warriors Corp Elgin RescueWarriorsCorp.org Rover Rescue PO BOX 4074, Aurora RoverRescue.org Anderson Animal Shelter 1000 S. La Fox St., South Elgin AndersonAnimalShelter.org
Casey’s Safe Haven PO BOX 103, Elburn CaseysSafeHaven.org Fox Valley Animal Welfare League 11 John St., North Aurora FVAWL.org Fox Valley Wildlife Center 45W061 Route 38, Elburn fvwc.org
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Celebrating
4
years of Fear Free Care Certified Since 2018
2312 W Main Street St. Charles, IL (630)524-2125 | loyal-companions.com
Sugery & Dental Vaccinations Ultrasounds Overnight Lodging Doggie Daycare Grooming & Training
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Help is out there for struggling pet owners
I
n uncertain times, there is one source of comfort we can all agree upon, and it is the unconditional love provided by our beloved four-legged friends. And when tragedy strikes a family member, whether through a natural disaster, domestic abuse, a health problem or job loss, we do everything we can to help. Bringing animals out of crisis and into care and strengthening the bond between humans and animals is at the heart of everything RedRover does. Through emergency sheltering, disaster relief services, financial assistance and humane education programs, we are able to unite our community of pet lovers to help make the world a better and safer place for pets and their people. No matter the crisis, people and their pets can stay together whenever possible. In the current time of economic and social uncertainty, there are a variety of programs that can help people and pets who are struggling, including:
URGENT VETERINARY CARE GRANTS The RedRover Relief program offers financial assistance and resources to pet owners struggling with economic hardship when pets are facing life-threatening emergencies. These grants are intended to fill a small gap in funding that is keeping an animal from receiving urgent veterinary care. In addition to financial support, case managers are there to provide emotional support and guidance throughout the application process. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM As few as 10% of domestic violence shelters in the U.S. allow pets onsite. And reports show that nearly half of domestic violence victims won’t leave their abusers if they can’t bring their pet with them. RedRover and Purina have partnered to create the Purple Leash Project to help expand pet-friendly domestic violence shelters across the United States. Purple Leash Project grants, an extension of RedRover’s Safe Housing program, enable shelters to build
on-site housing for pets. Adding pet-friendly spaces to domestic violence shelters can save the lives of people and their pets - and allow them to begin their healing process together. Recognizing there is no one-sizefits-all solution to help domestic violence survivors and their pets, there are additional types of grants for shelters to house pets offsite or partner with organizations like pet shelters to care for pets while a domestic violence survivor is in shelter. Survivors can apply for direct support through the Safe Escape program, which provides up to 90 days of pet boarding to individuals leaving abuse. COVID BOARDING GRANTS The new “Emergency Boarding” grant program helps animals who need temporary boarding while their owners are ill due to the COVID-19 virus. This grant will cover the cost of up to two (2) weeks of boarding while a pet owner is hospitalized, or if the pet owner is recovering at home and unable to care for their pet.
RESOURCES Beyond providing grants and support, RedRover has also assembled a list of COVID-19 emergency resources for pets and people with links to: ♦ Pet food and equine resources to connect pet owners to pet food pantries and hay donations. ♦ Other financial assistance programs such as low- and no-cost spay and neuter, as well as transportation services and foster resources. ♦ Resources for parents looking for engaging, at-home activities to do with their children, as well as educators who are looking for resources to use with their remote students. ♦ Emergency planning for pets including the COVID-19 Preparedness for Pets PDF, RedRover Pet Disaster Preparedness tips and an Emergency Pet Caregiving Agreement. With so many struggling right now, these resources will help keep your family safe during the pandemic, and beyond.
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smart steps to manage cat allergens at home
s millions of Americans spend unprecedented amounts of time at home, it also means spending unprecedented amounts of time with their pets. And for cat owners who have sensitivities to cat allergens, this can create unforeseen challenges. According to a recent study by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute and Purina Pro Plan, three in four cat owners say their relationship with their cat is a core part of their health and well-being. However, 26% of households with cat allergen sensitivities also stated that cat allergens have caused huge problems in their life. Having a cat shouldn’t mean choosing between enjoying time with them and living a healthy, full life. Fortunately, there are steps cat owners can take to help manage cat allergens at home. Step 1: VACUUM AND DUST REGULARLY It’s best to vacuum carpet at least twice a week, according to the Carpet and Rug Institute. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to help capture higher levels of allergens. Make sure to focus on spaces where cats play and lay frequently, including below furniture and the furniture itself. This ensures even those cozy corners get clean and don’t become a hot spot for allergens. Hard flooring such as tile, wood and laminate should be cleaned regularly as well to eliminate dust and dander. Vacuum on the low setting to get the suction closest to the hard flooring. Don’t forget spaces such as the litter box area because dust from litter can contribute to airborne allergens. Additionally, wet mop at least once a month to more fully clean hard flooring in your home. Keep in mind, even though your pet can’t reach some surfaces physically doesn’t mean their allergens won’t get there. Microscopic allergens can float through the air and land virtually anywhere, so dust surfaces high and low with a damp rag or microfiber cloth to capture these particles and remove them from the home.
Step 2: UPDATE YOUR CAT’S DIET Many people think that cat hair itself is the allergen, but it’s actually what’s on it that is problematic - the major cat allergen called Fel d 1, a protein that cats produce naturally in their saliva. When cats groom themselves, the Fel d 1 is transferred to the hair and skin through saliva. The allergen eventually lands in the environment as the cat’s hair and dander shed naturally.
of 130 F to remove allergens and kill other triggers such as dust mites, according to the Mayo Clinic. Consider making a habit of washing bedding and blankets weekly to remove allergens from your home. By combining these allergen management strategies, cat owners can better handle their current situations and be closer together with the cats they love.
Following a decade of research, Purina has introduced Pro Plan LiveClear, the first and only cat food that reduces the allergens in cat hair and dander. Instead of trying to manage the allergen once it’s already in the environment, the allergen is neutralized at its source in the cat’s mouth. When cats eat the food, the key ingredient - a specific protein sourced from eggs - binds to Fel d 1 and safely neutralizes it. In a published study, the food was shown to reduce the allergens in cat hair and dander by an average of 47%, starting in the third week of daily feeding. Learn more at www.proplanliveclear.com. Step 3: GROOM AND BRUSH YOUR CAT An important step in managing allergens at the source is to keep your pet clean. Regularly groom or brush your cat, particularly if they are prone to matted hair. The act of grooming reduces loose hair and thereby reduces the overall allergen load. Some types of brushes will groom and massage at the same time, so once acclimated, many cats enjoy the massage, which can potentially help reduce some stress or anxiety. Step 4: WASH HOUSEHOLD ITEMS The next step is to stay on top of cleaning household items. For example, bedding and blankets make a warm bed for pets and therefore harbor a multitude of allergens. Be sure to wash all sheets, blankets and pillowcases in hot water at a minimum
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easy steps to an organic backyard
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ecause everyone is spending more time in their own backyards now, parents are wondering how to create healthier lawns for their families. You might be surprised to learn that exposure to pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers can be harmful, particularly for growing children. This is why flags are posted after a yard is treated - they are warnings to keep children and pets away from dangerous chemical exposure. Chemicals found in pesticides and other lawn products have been linked to asthma, organ damage and cancer, as well as neurological diseases and behavioral problems, according to the National Institutes of Health. The safest approach for everyone, and the environment, is to go organic. Stonyfield Organic yogurt has cared about where cows graze for the past 36 years. In 2018, Stonyfield Organic yogurt ex-
tended its mission beyond cows grazing fields to outdoor spaces where kids play, starting with the #PlayFree campaign to remove toxic pesticides from parks and playing fields. Now Stonyfield is helping families do the same for their own backyards. ORGANICALLY MAINTAINED LAWNS MADE EASY Having a chemical-free, healthy lawn is not difficult if you follow practical, proven organic lawn management techniques. Follow these steps from Stonyfield Organic to transform your yard into a healthier environment for everybody. 1. Stop using pesticides Because of the harm that can be caused by pesticides, it’s best to simply stop using them. If you have nuisance insects in your yard, there are natural approaches to curbing them. Pesticides kill both harmful and beneficial bugs, so you miss out
on the benefits many “good” insects provide. Good bugs include dragonflies, honeybees, ladybugs and butterflies. “Bad” bugs like grasshoppers, aphids, fire ants, grubs, snails, chiggers, centipedes and mosquitoes can harm your plants and annoy humans. How can you reduce bad bugs without pesticides, while helping the “good bugs”? * Plant flowers to support pollinators * Provide fresh water for good bugs and bug-killing birds * Add mulch to offer shade for plant-friendly insects * Use apple cider vinegar or cedar oil as bug repellent * Spray neem oil on infestations * Repel mosquitoes with crushed parsley, rosemary oil or citronella candles * Grow insect-repellent plants
like marigolds, lemongrass, fennel, basil or thyme * Hang a bird feeder for bug-eating birds * Hose visible bugs like aphids and caterpillars off plants 2. Test your soil Most people apply lawn products without first determining what the soil actually needs. Testing helps you discover the right balance, so your soil won’t be too acidic or too alkaline. Many universities provide soil testing services at reasonable prices. Check your nearest university’s website for details. Or turn soil testing into a fun family project. All you need is red cabbage, distilled water and the directions at Stonyfield.com/ playfree/change-your-own-backyard. 3. Switch to organic fertilizers Synthetic fertilizers are manu-
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factured with fossil fuels and are salt-based. They directly feed plants, and can harm your soil. Organic fertilizers feed the life in your soil, and the soil in turn will feed your grass or plants. 4. Use effective organic lawn care tactics To achieve a lush lawn without chemicals, it helps to understand what grass needs to grow its best. * FEED SOIL - Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and micronutrients help your grass grow. But don’t feed without testing - the soil test will determine if your grass is getting what it needs from the soil. * MOW HIGH - Short grass is stressed grass. Most grass grows best at around 3 inches. This allows your grass to efficiently produce its own food, develop deep roots and withstand drought conditions.
* Mulch with grass clippings Healthy soil will turn the grass clippings into the nutrients it needs. * WATER DEEP - Lawns love about an inch of water each week. In many areas, rainfall is plenty. Less frequent but deeper watering builds heartier, healthier roots. Water as needed but
aim for no more than 3 times per week, and water in the early morning.
light that weeds need to grow.
* OVERSEED - Spread a layer of grass seeds across your existing yard to help grow a green and lush lawn.
make your lawn beautiful as well
* WEEDING - The best weed prevention is a healthy, thriving lawn. Thick grass blocks out sun-
Following these approaches can as safer for your entire family.
For more helpful organic back-
yard gardening tips, visit Stonyfield.com/PlayFree.
The Beach is Open! Check out Woofbeach’s NEW Aurora location!
Grooming, Training & Daycare Available at Aurora Call Today 630-686-8050! 2124 Galena Blvd. Aurora, IL woofbeachbay.com SM-CL1788014
Locations also in: Batavia, Geneva, S. Elgin, Aurora (new and will have Doggie Daycare), Wheaton Thursday, June 25, 2020 | PET GUIDE | 9
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Going to the dogs DOG-FRIENDLY PLACES AND OPEN SPACES The open spaces of Kane County have plenty to offer humans as well as their furry companions. Consider one of these dog-friendly locales for your next adventure:
OFF-LEASH DOG RUNS AURORA WEST FOREST PRESERVE 40W032 Hankes Road, Aurora Your pup can run free at this 715acre property open to off-leash dogs. A trail connects the Virgil Gilman regional bike trail to the preserve featuring prairies, marshes and woodlands Please note, the preserve is designated as an off-leash dog area, but a portion of the preserve is offlimits for dogs. This restricted use area is set aside for wildlife habitat protection. Please follow alL Rules and Regulations regarding use of these areas.” FOX RIVER BLUFF WEST 5N753 Route 31, St. Charles Fox River Bluff is located right off the Fox River in St. Charles. While there are off-leash spots here, owners are asked to leash dogs while walking to and from vehicles
and while crossing the bicycle bridge on the river. REGOLE FOREST PRESERVE 3790 Commerce Drive, St. Charles A pond and plenty of agility equipment for adventurous dogs is waiting at Regole Forest Preserve. There are even other trails available nearby for leashed dogs to explore. SCHWEITZER WOODS 16N690 Sleepy Hollow Road West Dundee This rolling 160-acre preserve is designated an off-leash dog area. The property features forests, hay meadows and marshes. In addition to the fenced dog park, there also are miles of hiking trails that wind through the property. No permits are required.
The Bark Park has three acres of fenced land at the West Main Community Park in Batavia, including a pond and a pavilion located inside the dog park. There are also on-leash hiking trails throughout the park.
Community Park, including three different dog park enclosures. Picnic areas, playgrounds and more round out the fun.
RIVER BEND COMMUNITY PARK 6N517 Geneva Ave., St. Charles
GREGORY ISLAND DOG PARK Indian Trail at the Fox River,Aurora
This dog park is located within the 45-acre River Bend Community Park, offering human interests such as a skate park, fishing, basketball, tennis and restrooms, but also plenty of trails for your leashed dog to run. The dog park itself features double-gated security entrances and water fountains for Fido.
LINCOLN PARK DOG PARK 259 S. Russell Ave., Aurora
MEMBERSHIP DOG PARKS
STUART SPORTS COMPLEX Griffin Dr. and Route 30 Montgomery
FREE DOG PARKS
JAMES O. BREEN COMMUNITY PARK Campton Hills and Peck roads St. Charles
Built in 2014, the Stuart Sports Complex Dog Park has more than 15 acres of off-leash areas for dogs. There are separate zones for large and small dogs, an agility section and a large pond for dogs to swim.
BATAVIA BARK PARK 40W101 W. Main St., Batavia
There is something for every pup on the grounds of James O. Breen
WOOF RUN DOG PARK 901 Wheeler Road, Sugar Grove
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Specializing In Quality Food, Treats & Supplies For Cats & Dogs
Bruce and Willy’s is a naturally minded resource for pet owners looking for a more organic approach to their pets’ health concerns. We offer personalized service tailored to your pets’ specific health needs. We have the largest line of herbal, homeopathic, and whole food supplements in the Chicagoland area, with the knowledge to help you decide what is best for your furry friend. We focus on addressing root causes, not just masking symptoms. We wholeheartedly believe in a proactive approach when it comes to addressing your pets’ health. Beyond our huge selection of high quality supplements, we also have the best selection of treats and fresh food. We have inspected every ingredient in every product we carry, and have chosen only the highest quality products to put on our shelves. We are very picky about what we choose because we want any choice you make to be a great choice. We won’t carry anything in our store that we wouldn’t give to our own pets.
308 W. State St. Geneva • 630-465-0727 • www.bruceandwillys.com b d ill Sun. 11-4, Mon. 11-5, Tues. - Fri. 11-7, Sat 11-6 SM-CL1787769
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