Simply Pets Magazine (snippet - sneak peek)

Page 1

WINTER 2016 ISSUE

a lifestyle magazine for people who love pets and animals

Lisa Smith Putnam {LSP} Home, Holiday, Family & Petkids

PETKIDS & SNACKS (Recipes For The Holiday) Up close and personal with

Dr. Dame Daphne Sheldrick A lifetime of love with animals and nature

BABY IT’S COLD OUTSIDE PROTECT YOUR PETKIDS FROM WINTER HAZARDS

Pets are family too Gearing up for the Holidays and the New Year!

Simply Pets Magazine | Winter 2016 Issue

1

CONTENTS

Winter / Special Holiday Issue ON THE COVER: Lisa Smith Putnam {LSP} 8ধ9ধ$ -8'$;38V 8'+38@ W '££

Special

34

Up close and personal with Dr. Dame Daphne Sheldrick £-('ধ1' 3( £3=' >-;, animals and nature

OUR HERO BOCKER THE LABRADOODLE 9 -; '='8 ;,' 8-+,; ধ1'S 3$0'8 ! &3+S T ,' was an angel with paws. Touching the hearts of '='8@32' ,' >3<£& 1'';W

08 We have always said that pets are family too. Her family, her petkids just happen to be two- and-a-half to seven-ton ‡Ž‡’ŠƒÂ?–• ™‹–Š Ď?Â‹Â˜Â‡ÇŚ –‘ Â‡Â‹Â‰ÂŠÂ–ÇŚÂˆÂ‘Â‘Â–ÇŚÂŽÂ‘Â?‰ tusks.

Features Jenny Alonzo One More Night (In her own words)

15 How do you say goodbye to someone when you don’t even speak the same language? How do you say goodbye to someone when you believed you saved them and in reality they saved you? The language spoken was of the heart, and the truth is they saved each other.

38 V !2- >!9 £39; >,'2 8!2&32 was six years old. What happened next has stayed >-;, ,-1 <2ধ£ ;,-9 &!@W

Anja Denker Love Stories

24 As a wildlife photographer, Anja ja is passionate about out all animals. But her er favorite animals are anything but wild; d; her loves are her petkids— Bari and her shelter dog Laila.

4

Simply Pets Magazine | Winter 2016 Issue

Round The Tree 29 Did you know? Pet facts! Join the discussion round the tree.

STOP! LOOK! and LISTEN! 42 Favorite- Books, Movies and Music for Holiday and Beyond Take a break. Enjoy some of our favorite things!

YOUR LIFE WITH YOUR PETKIDS 46 A day in the life with you and your petkid.

32 MS. PETIQUETTE IS HERE FOR YOU! She will give her opinion. ,' >-££ #' !2 -16!8ধ!£ 7<-80@T (<22@T !2& @'; 931'ধ1'9 9'8-3<9 £!&@ with her response. ' R 9W 'ধ7<'ħ' ;3 ;,' 8'9$<'W

WHAT'S OUT THERE? ANIMALS AND SPIRITS by Jennifer Petrone 60 I truly believe that all life is sacred and all things have souls.

A RAINBOW HUG By Alizabeth Ashley Smith

76 I was feeling quite melancholy one day, so I went for a walk in the woods. BEHAVIOR ~ YOURS AND THEIRS DEALING WITH A SPRAYING CAT ǧ Ǩ by Francine Piriano-Davila 62 A cat that sprays can be extremely frustrating, for both you and your cat, but there is a reason behind the spraying.

PETKID TIDBITS! 54 Just a few things that will make your

PETKID FUNNIES

lifestyle a little easier with your petkid!

LISA AND THE PET DETECTIVES HEALTH & SAFETY HOLIDAYS AND YOUR PETS by Healey Lockett 66 We’re all gearing up for the magic season! It starts with Halloween and rushes right on through to New Year’s Eve.

By {LSP} 56 Move over Scooby Doo and Nancy Drew. Lisa and the Pet Detectives is a new children’s book and soon to be an animated television show.

NICE FIND By Toni Patillo 70 Tips for Pet Owners When Purchasing a Home by Toni Patillo When I purchased my Ď?‹”•– Š‘Â?‡Ǥ

HOME, HOLIDAY, FAMILY, & PETKIDS

FIRST LOOK

BABY IT’S COLD OUTSIDE

THE LOVES OF MY LIFE

WINTER IS HERE 72 Just like you love being warm in the

By Teija DeVere 48 My life is full of love. I know, I know— ugggh what a clichÊ. But it’s true.

winter, it’s important to think about your petkids and the temperatures outside and inside the house. Great tips from Kim Salerno

By Lisa Smith Putnam {LSP} 79 I grew up in a family of six humans (me, my sister, my two brothers, my mom and my dad) and at any given time two to four PetKids as well.

WHO'S IN THE KITCHEN AND WHAT'S COOKING? 62 Who wants snacks? Petkids do!

WITH LOVE 81 Simply Pets Magazine wants to thank

PAW AND ORDER

Petkid and snacks! Need we say more? Recipes for the holidays.

DO OUR PETS HAVE LEGAL RIGHTS?

PLAYTIME 64 Have some fun while learning

by Jeremy Cohen 50 Where do your local, state, and national ‡Ž‡…–‡† ‘ˆĎ?‹…‹ƒŽ• •–ƒÂ?† ‘Â? ’‡–•ǯ ”‹‰Š–•Ǎ

something new! Pet and animal crossword puzzle. Fill in the ________.

the following people for celebrating us even before one article was ever written.

THE SCOOP FROM LSP FOUNDER AND PUBLISHER LETTER By Lisa Smith Putnam 07 As Founder and Publisher, I am honored that you have chosen Simply Pets Magazine!

Simply Pets Magazine | Winter 2016 Issue

5

a lifestyle magazine for people who love pets and animals

Simply Pets Magazine Founder and Publisher Lisa Smith Putnam {LSP} Cedric D. Fisher Consultant Content Editor Lillie Ammann

Marketing Director Marc Hamilton

ϐ Dave Lohr

Creative Consultant Gregory P. Bell

ϐ Josephine Rimpau

Columns Editor Diana Opong-Parry

Social Media Director Jason Irwin

Gratitude Guru Theresa Oschmann

Director of Sales Susan Lyman

Animated Illustrations Albert Saavedra

Artistic Director and Design Alauddin Ahmed

Counsel Simply Pets Media Tom Osinski Esq.

Simply Pets Media Creative Director

Lisa Brambilla Doble

Contributing Writers Dr. Robert Shelto, DVM Marie Shelto Susan Lyman Jeremy Cohen, ESQ Ernie Lansford Brandon Drake Jennifer Petrone Jenny Alonzo Ashleigh Smith

Toni Patillo Teija DeVere Joel Ehrenzweig, DMV Francine Piriano-Davila Diana Opong-Parry Ms. Petiquette Healey Lockett Chef LoveJoy Cole Jennifer Olson (puzzle editor)

SIMPLY PETS MAGAZINE 620 South Orcas Street #80651, Seattle, Washington 98108 | 310.773.1406 www.simplypetsmagazine.com | info@simplypetsmagazine.com facebook/simplypetsmagazine SimplyPetsMag simplypetsmagazine © Copyright: Simply Pets Magazine is published by Simply Pets, LLC. The entire document of Simply Pets Magazine is © 2016 by Simply Pets, LLC. No portion may be reopened in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without the express written permission of the publisher. Opinions ϔ Ǥ constitute advice but is considered informative. Simply Pets Magazine is nationally and internationally operated. Occasionally we make our subscriber list available to carefully screened companies that offer products and services that we believe would interest our readers. If you do not want to receive these offers, please advise us to Simply Pets Magazine Attn: OptOut, 620 South Orcas Street #80651 Seattle, Washington 98108. Please include your exact name and address as it appears on your subscriber label.

6

Simply Simp Si mply mp ly Pets Pet P etss Ma et Maga Magazine gazi ga zine zi ne | W Winter Win inte in terr 2016 te 2016 Issue IIss ssue ss ue

The Scoop from LSP

As Founder and Publisher, I am honored that you have chosen Simply Pets Magazine! If you pre-ordered our magazine sight unseen, I truly hope it is all you expected it would be. If you just happened upon it, welcome, and I hope you love what you see and snatch up a yearly subscription for yourself and a friend (at SimplyPetsMagazine.com)! ‡Ž‡ƒ•‹Â?‰ –Š‡ Ď?‹”•– ‹••—‡ ‘ˆ ‹Â?’Ž› ‡–• Magazine during this season of thanks is very exciting. As I settle in to enjoy the holidays with family and friends, I can’t help „—– „‡ Ď?‹ŽŽ‡† ™‹–Š ƒ’’”‡…‹ƒ–‹‘Â? –‘ –Š‘•‡ –Šƒ– have worked alongside me to bring this magazine to fruition. I am also very thankful to you, our reader, for taking time to pick up this magazine and to read this letter. December is my favorite time of the year! Maybe it’s because it’s my birthday month, maybe it’s because everyone seems –‘ „‡ Ď?‹ŽŽ‡† ™‹–Š ƒÂ? ‡š–”ƒ †‘•‡ ‘ˆ …Š‡‡”ǥ ‘” Â?ƒ›„‡ ‹–ǯ• „‡…ƒ—•‡ –Š‹• Â?‘Â?–Š ‹• Ď?‹ŽŽ‡† ™‹–Š fond memories of family and friends being together. It is in that spirit that I share with you how Simply Pets Magazine came to be. ‘” Â?‘”‡ –ŠƒÂ? –™‡Â?–›njĎ?‹˜‡ ›‡ƒ”• ÇŻÂ˜Â‡ worked in the music, television, radio, and now print industries. However, it is my love of animals that’s taken me on this fantastic journey while juggling the rest. I’m the ’”‘—† ‡– ‘Â? ‘ˆ Ď?‹˜‡ ‡– ‹†•ǣ –Š”‡‡ „‹‰ Žƒ„• and two cats. Although I am allergic to these loves, I’m sure my life would not be quite as rich without them. I wanted to create Simply Pets Magazine for those of us that who love pets and animals in general. I wanted to create a magazine that your whole family can read together, one that represents you as a PetParent, as well as your PetKids, your values, and your interests as a pet-loving person. We humans can learn so much from ƒÂ?‹Â?ÂƒÂŽÂ•ÇĄ Ď?‹”•– ƒÂ?† ˆ‘”‡Â?‘•– Ž‘˜‡ Č‹ ÇŻÂ˜Â‡ Ž‡ƒ”Â?‡† to love on such a deeper level) and patience. Did I mention patience? Someone is always needing something. Why is it the minute I think tonight is the night for a good night’s sleep, someone has to go potty in the middle of the night—and it isn’t me. In this season

Photo By Denise Knudson

Lisa Smith Putnam {LSP} with her PetKid Jaxxs

of thanksgiving and time with loved ones, our PetKids are part of it all. I hope this magazine occasionally makes you laugh, and sometimes causes you to shed a tear. Maybe you’ll learn a few tricks (page 54 for our "Tidbits section) and some great recipes for your PetKid in the “Who’s in the kitchen and what’s cooking?â€? section (page 62) too. Through amazing pictures and stories, we’ll take you to far-off places, then bring you back home again. Our feature story is about Doctor Dame Daphne Sheldrick, whom we interviewed in Africa (page 8)Ǥ Š‡ Š‡Ž’• ‘”’ŠƒÂ?‡† ‡Ž‡’ŠƒÂ?–• Ď?‹Â?† care and a forever home. The magazine will celebrate pet and animal life, pet families, and all the things that are dear to my heart and, I believe, to the hearts of other PetParents. We here at Simply Pets Magazine hope you’ll be an active part of the journey we’re on to have this publication represent all the things I’ve expressed so far. How do we make that happen? By having you share

your stories, pictures, and even your jokes! After all, this magazine is for you and the loving, always-full-of-adventure life you lead with your PetKids, whether at home or on the road! We will continually evolve, because YOU, your PetKid, and your family are constantly evolving too. We welcome you to be a part of this creation and adventure every other month. Feel free to reach out to me directly, lisa@simplypetsmedia.com, and let me know how we’re doing! I love to encourage people to Laugh, Share, and Play every day! LSP

I am Lisa Smith Putnam {LSP}‌that’s me! Founder & Publisher of Simply Pets Magazine CEO of Simply Pets Media twitter @lisasmithputnam facebook/lisasmithputnam

Simply Pets Magazine | Winter 2016 Issue

7

Up Close

Daphne Sheldrick W

ϐ publish Simply Pets Magazine, I thought about the story I wanted to be the premier article for the Ǥ ǯ ϐ recalled an interview I’d seen many years ago with a woman named Daphne Sheldrick. The magic of that ǡ ϐ you that magical tale with the hope that it will touch your heart as it has mine. ϐ years ago, the story, the emotion, and the reasons she did what she did have stuck with me all these years. I can’t forget the tears she shed, the love she showed, and the courage she exhibited to go it alone ϐ Ǥ knew she had to be a part of my magazine. I want to embrace people like her all over the world who dedicate themselves to protecting and enhancing the lives of animals—those who give love to animals, not because it is cool, not because there are cameras running, but because they love those beings that have no voice and need us to protect their very existence, now more than ever. Webster’s Dictionary ϐ inspire as ǣ ͳȌ ȋ Ȍ ǣ to give (someone) an idea about what to do or create; 2) to cause someone to have (a feeling or emotion). Dame Sheldrick has inspired me for years. She was one of the inspirations for the creation of Simply Pets Magazine to share stories that reach deep and touch our hearts even when we think all hope is lost. She has inspired me, like many others, to raise my voice for those who cannot speak, but who need love, understanding, and compassion from us humans.

8

Simply Pets Magazine | Winter 2016 Issue

Up Close Sadly, for many, their very survival depends on us. We as humans must learn to hear their silent cries for help. If more people simply listened like Dame Sheldrick does, I wonder where we all would be. It’s people like Dame Daphne who have learned to listen, not with their ears, but with their loving hearts and to open their arms to give hope to many. This magazine is about all animals— both wild and domestic. We can learn from all animals, not only the wild, but ƒŽ•‘ –Š‡ †‘Â?Â‡Â•Â–Â‹Â…ÂƒÂ–Â‡Â†ÇĄ ‘—” ĕ‡–Â?‹†•Ǥ Dame Sheldrick, please allow me to share your story and take the readers on a trip to the great continent of Africa, which many elephants call home. Allow them to fall in love with the elephants and feel motivated to act, to do something! If this article inspires only one person to help animals, big or small, anywhere there is a need, I will be pleased. Whether ›‘— Š‡Ž’ ƒ Ž‘•– †‘‰ Ď?‹Â?† ‹–• Š‘Â?‡ ‘” ƒ missing cat reunite with its parent, we thank you. You—we—will have given that animal another day and in some small ™ƒ› ‘—”•‡Ž˜‡• ƒ Ď?‹‰Š–‹Â?‰ …ŠƒÂ?…‡Ǥ

ƒÂ? ƒ Ď?‹”Â? „‡Ž‹‡˜‡” –Šƒ– –Š‡ ™ƒ› ™‡ treat the children and animals of this world is the benchmark as to how the human race is doing. I take heart that more and more people are understanding the bond between human and animals, the things we can learn from the animals. I take heart that there are people like Doctor Dame Daphne Sheldrick. Not everyone can have a life of love like Doctor Sheldrick, but certainly everyone can have a life of love. And those of us with a petkid in our lives know truly how rewarding life can be. Doctor Sheldrick refers to elephants as her children. Many years ago when I saw her being interviewed, she was caressing the trunk of a very large elephant. When she was asked what these elephants mean to her and why she cares so much, she replied, “These are not just elephants to me. They’re like my children, each needing love and care‌.â€? She started to tear up and then cry. I felt her passion, and the love, care, and tenderness she showed makes Dr. Sheldrick one of my Š‡”‘‹Â?‡• ƒÂ?† –Š‡ ”‡ƒ•‘Â? •Š‡ ‹• –Š‡ Ď?‹”•– feature in Simply Pets Magazine. We have always said that pets are family too. Her family, her petkids just happen to be twoand-a-half to seven-ton elephants with

Ď?Â‹Â˜Â‡ÇŚ –‘ Â‡Â‹Â‰ÂŠÂ–ÇŚÂˆÂ‘Â‘Â–ÇŚÂŽÂ‘Â?‰ –—•Â?•Ǥ I have seen many inspiring video clips and stories about the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. I believe most humans love only what we know or think we know, but few of us have ever been close to an elephant except at the zoo. I invite you to fall in love with some of the most majestic giants that roam our planet— the elephants that Doctor Daphne Dame Sheldrick has come to love and adore. Dame Sheldrick has lost a great human love, yet she continues to give love with her whole heart to the elephants and the team that cares for them. Even with the sometimes-tragic poaching that occurs, her heart remains open and optimistic about people and life. Through it all, she still believes in the goodness of all people’s hearts; she believes in humanity. I feel blessed and honored that Dame Daphne granted me an interview. The privilege of interviewing someone I have long admired who is so passionate about love, life, and animals makes my soul vibrate at the highest level. Her story resonated with me, and I hope you enjoy this glimpse into her world –Š”‘—‰Š ƒ Â?ƒ‰Â?‹Ď?‹…‡Â?– ™‹Â?†‘™Ǥ ˆ Šƒ˜‡ succeeded, you will come to know and understand why I so lovingly call this piece “a lifetime of love—love for animals, family, humanity, and life.â€? We all know that sometimes giving love is not easy

ƒÂ?† —Â?†‡”•–ƒÂ?†‹Â?‰ …ƒÂ? „‡ †‹ˆĎ?‹…—Ž–Ǥ —– sometimes against all odds, if we never give up, we might experience awe. We can do the incredible and learn wonderful things—if we just let awe happen. We may be separated by an ocean and continent, yet we are connected in spirit by love. The following is excerpted from the prologue to Â‘Â˜Â‡ÇĄ Â‹ÂˆÂ‡ÇĄ ƒÂ?† Ž‡’ŠƒÂ?–•ǣ An African Love Story, by Doctor Dame Daphne Sheldrick. The day had begun well. My friend and I were in Tsavo National Park, among the tangled vegetation and wild herds, •‡ƒ”…Š‹Â?‰ ˆ‘” Ž‡ƒÂ?‘”Ǥ ™ƒ• ‡ƒ‰‡” –‘ ϔ‹Â?† my most treasured orphaned elephant. Over my many years of involvement with elephants, there was no doubt about it: Ž‡ƒÂ?‘” Šƒ† –ƒ—‰Š– Â?‡ –Š‡ Â?‘•– ƒ„‘—– Š‡” kind. We had been through many ups and downs together. She was my old friend. ‌At last – in the right area – we spotted a wild herd. From a distance it was never ‡ƒ•› –‘ ‹†‡Â?–‹ˆ› Ž‡ƒÂ?‘” ƒÂ?‘Â?‰ ƒ Â?‹ŽŽ‹Â?‰ crowd of her fellow adults, and I had never felt the need to do so, certain that she would always know me. Unlike the other wild elephants of Tsavo, who had no reason –‘ ‡‹–Š‡” Ž‹Â?‡ ‘” –”—•– Š—Â?ƒÂ?•ǥ Ž‡ƒÂ?‘” would always want to come when called, to greet me, simply for old times’ sake. I have come to know a lot about elephant memory and how very similar to ourselves elephants are in terms of emotion – after

Simply Pets Magazine | Winter 2016 Issue

9

Simply Azul Chocolates your passport to the heart of blue Inspired by Lisa Smith Putnam Created by Jan Struab www.simplyazulchocolates.com Twitter/@simplyazulchocolates Facebook/simplyazulchocolates

10

Simply Simp Si mply mp ly Pets Pet P etss Magazine et Maga Ma gazi ga zine zi ne | W Winter Win inte in terr 2016 te 2016 Issue IIss ssue ss ue

Up Close all, greeting an old friend makes you feel good, remembered, wanted. There stood a large cow elephant drinking at a muddy pool, her family already moving off among the bushes. From this distance, it didn’t look much ǡ ǡ elephant was stockier. I told my friend as much. ‘How disappointing,’ he said. ‘I was so hoping to meet her.’ ‘I’ll call her,’

ǡ Ǯ ǡ respond.’ She did. The elephant looked up at me, her ears slightly raised, curious. She left the pool and walked straight up Ǥ Ǯ ǯ Ǥ Ǯ ǯ on weight.’ I looked into her eyes, which Ǥ ϔ ǯ ǡ but I dismissed this instantly. This must be Ǥ not behave this way, approaching humans so trustingly. The Tsavo herds were now innately suspicious of our kind, having been relentlessly persecuted in the poaching holocaust of the 70s, 80s, and early 90s. Ǯ ǡǯ Ǥ Ǯ Ǥǯ Reaching up, I touched her cheeks and felt the cool ivory of her tusks, caressing her below the chin in greeting. Her eyes were

gentle and friendly, fringed with long dark lashes; her manner was welcoming. ‘She’s beautiful,’ murmured my friend. ‘Stand next to her so that I can take a photo.’ I positioned myself beside one massive foreleg, reaching up my hand to stroke her behind the ear, something that

Ǥ of an elephant’s ear is as soft and smooth to the touch as silk and always deliciously cool. I was totally unprepared for what happened next. The elephant took a pace backwards, swung her giant head and, using her trunk to lift my body, threw me ϔ through the air with such force that I smashed down onto a giant clump of boulders some twenty paces away. I knew at once that the impact had shattered my right leg, for I could hear and feel the bones crunch as I struggled to sit up. I could see that I was already bleeding copiously from an open wound in my thigh. Astonishingly, there was no pain – not yet, anyway. My friend screamed. The elephant – I knew for certain now that this was not Ȃ ǡ broken body as I braced myself for the end.

I closed my eyes and began to pray. I had a lot to be thankful for, but I did not want to leave this world quite yet. Inside I began to panic, jumbled thoughts crowding my mind. But suddenly there was a moment of pure stillness – as if the world had simply stopped turning – and as I opened my eyes I could feel the elephant gently insert her tusks between my body and the rocks. Rather than a desire to kill, I realized that the elephant was actually trying to help me by lifting me to my feet, encouraging me to stand. I thought: this is how they respond to their young. But lifting me now could be catastrophic for my broken body. ‘No!’ I shouted as I smacked the tip of the wet trunk that reached down to touch my face. She gazed down at me, her ears splayed open in the shape of Africa, her eyes kind and concerned. Then, lifting one huge foot, she began to feel me gently all over, barely touching me. Her great ears stood out at right angles to her huge head as she contemplated me lying helpless, merely inches from the tip of two long, sharp tusks. I knew then that she did not intend to kill me – elephants are careful where they tread and do not stomp on their victims. If they do intend to kill, they kneel down and

‘She’s beautiful,’ murmured my friend. ‘Stand next to her so that I can take a photo.’ I positioned myself beside one massive foreleg, reaching up my hand to stroke her behind the ear, something that I loved doing with Eleanor. The hind side of an elephant’s ear is as soft and smooth to the touch as silk and always deliciously cool.

Simply Pets Magazine | Winter 2016 Issue

11

Up Close our attention these days? And please share with me why you are so drawn to them.

DAME DAPHNE: Lisa, everyone should care not only about elephants but about all who exist within the natural world and appreciate that each and every species has a role to play that contributes towards the balance and health of the earth. All animals are special, and I’m drawn to the eyes of any animal (and of humans too). Eyes are the windows to the soul and also indicators of mood. Eyes speak volumes and seldom lie.

LISA: That is a wonderful statement, Dame Daphne. Your eyes seem to pierce the very soul of one’s being and yet the love that reverberates back to you gives a sense of calmness, one of love. Why do you feel it is you who must ϐ ǡ do you feel a personal connection with each and every one?

DAME DAPHNE: I am passionate about the natural world and all its wild denizens, not just the elephants. In my time, I have handreared orphans of most African wild species—many antelopes, big and small; rhinos; buffaloes; zebras; ostriches; in fact, just about everything save the big cats. Photos are courtesy of The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust provided by Mr. Anthony Ngethe. Special thanks to Dr. Dame Daphne Sheldrick for granting us the interview and to Ms. Lina Sideras for coordinating everything on our behalf for this wonderful opportunity.

use the top of the trunk and forehead. And it was at this moment – with an astonishing clarity of thought, that I can still feel within me to this day – I realized ǡ ϔ debt owed to Nature and all the animals that had so enriched my life. For even as I could feel the broken bones within my ǡ ϔ ϔ ǡ of my beloved creatures that had caused me this distress, I knew then and there that I had an absolute duty to pass on my intimate knowledge and understanding of Africa’s wild animals and my belonging to Kenya. I thought: if I survive this, I will write. This will be my legacy. I will set

12

down everything I have learned in my efforts to contribute to the conservation, preservation and protection of wildlife in this magical land. It was as if this elephant had heard my thoughts. There was a tense silence as she took one more look at me and moved slowly off. I would live on. As a journalist, I was taught to always make sure to ask the why early. Why will allow the story to unfold. Ladies and ǡ ǣ ǣ In her own words and the why…

LISA: Why should we as humans even care about the existence of elephants and their treatment/existence in the world, especially with so many causes wanting

Simply Pets Magazine | Winter 2016 Issue

LISA: What is it that you know that perhaps many might not know if they’ve never been around animals?

DAME DAPHNE: When you raise an animal, you learn the inside story—how it feels and thinks and what makes it tick, always, of course, with an understanding of its natural role within the big picture. Our earthly home was not created only for humans, nor did it devolve only for humans. In fact, humans have stepped out of nature and the consequence of that could be terminal for our species. If it’s true that we humans have stepped out of nature, then I believe that we owe it to ourselves to get back to nature and understand that our todays affect our tomorrows. It’s important that everyone

Up Close understands that all species belong to the earth, and each and every one contributes in different ways to the health and wellbeing of the whole. We can learn so very much from elephants and all animals. From elephants, we can learn humility and gentleness despite strength and size, forgiveness, and caring for others irrespective of age.

LISA: When you look back over your life, is there one moment in time that made you think what you were doing was not worth it?

DAME DAPHNE: No! I’ve never dreamed of doing anything else. No, never.

LISA: Besides your animals, looking back over your life, what or who are your greatest loves? I can already feel your excitement, commitment, and warmth before you even respond.

DAME DAPHNE: My husband was exceptional in every way, not only with stunning good looks; he was extremely competent in everything he undertook. He was a born leader, and his love of the natural world plus his compassion and understanding of nature were awesome and unmatched. He taught me all I know today. We were totally compatible, and I loved him unconditionally and still do. For me, there is no one else that could ever match David

in stature, in competence, and in looks. He was surrounded by an unmistakable air of authority that nobody could possibly miss.

LISA: And what does that love mean to you?

DAME DAPHNE: For me family is everything, as it is for the elephants. They mirror us humans in terms of emotion, age progression, and longevity, but they’re better than us in many other ways, with mysterious means of communication that include telepathic capabilities. Family is, of course, one’s human family and extended family, but also the animals under one’s care who are also much loved.

LISA: People talk about legacy often when someone has done so much, and their „‘†› ‘ˆ ™‘”Â? Ď?‹ŽŽ• —• ™‹–Š ƒ •‡Â?•‡ ‘ˆ wonder and awe. As it relates to Dame Daphne, the Sheldrick legacy lives and will live on in Tsavo, Kenya’s largest and most important protected area and home to a wider variety of wild species than any other place on earth. It is there that the Northern and Southern forms of the same general species just happen to meet, e.g., the Maasai and Somali ostriches, the normal Grant’s gazelle and the Peter’s gazelle, to name just a few. Dame Daphne, what would you hope and love for your personal legacy?

DAME DAPHNE: I’d rather talk about the legacy of the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT). I’ve recorded this wonderful legacy in

Long after my interview with this amazing lady, I was honored to receive an autographed copy of Â‘Â˜Â‡ÇĄ Â‹ÂˆÂ‡ÇĄ ƒÂ?† Ž‡’ŠƒÂ?–•ǣ Â? ˆ”‹…ƒÂ? ‘˜‡ –‘”›. I already had a copy as I had previously read it for pleasure, then read it again preparing for this interview. However, I will cherish forever the copy Dame Daphne sent me with a wonderful inscription that read “To Lisa~ Thank you for what you do to serve and protect the animals who call this planet home! Please continue on with what you are doing as love is needed to and for all. With love and affection‌Dr. Dame Daphne Sheldrickâ€? I can tell you my heart was and will forever be touched and humbled by her love and support. If you would like to participate with the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and Foundation, please visit www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org. They have a program that lets you sponsor one of the orphan elephants and receive personal updates on its wellbeing. You must have much trust to take care of any animal, domesticated or wild, but when that animal is an elephant that is much bigger and stronger than the average man or woman, you must have an enormous amount of trust and respect for the animal because your life depends on it.

my four books and encapsulated it in my autobiography, Â‘Â˜Â‡ÇĄ Â‹ÂˆÂ‡ÇĄ ƒÂ?† Ž‡’ŠƒÂ?–•ǣ An African Love Story. One day I hope this ™‹ŽŽ „‡ ƒ Ď?‹ŽÂ? ‘Â? –Š‡ „‹‰ •…”‡‡Â?ÇĄ „—– Ž‘Â?‰ after I have passed away. I founded DSWT in 1977 in memory of my exceptional husband. The elephant and rhino rescue and rehabilitation program is recognized around the world. We also have mobile and aerial vet units, anti-poaching units, conservation initiatives, and community outreach.

Did you know? Male African elephants are the largest surviving terrestrial animals and can reach a height of four meters (thirteen feet) and weigh 7,000 kilograms (15,000 pounds). Their heart beats twenty-eight times per minute compared to that of a human at sixty to ninety beats per minute. I asked Dame Sheldrick about donations to the trust and how it works. “People get detailed accounting ‘ˆ ‡˜‡”› †‘Â?ƒ–‹‘Â? ‰‹˜‡Â? ˆ‘” ƒ •’‡…‹Ď?‹… purpose, but many people trust us to use their contributions wisely and where they will have the most impact. In this respect one reaps what one sows and people like what we do and trust us to do it well.â€? Her answer made me smile. My why? Maybe that is it. A little trust and a little love go a long way—much further than you’ll ever know. It is evident that Dame Sheldrick’s love and trust for the animals and mankind will never stop. It will just continue to grow and grow. As Dame Daphne wrote in her memoirs, the elephants seem to know her and they never forget. I will certainly never forget Dame Sheldrick. May her work and her legacy continue for generations to come, so all people may have the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful and elegant creatures— big or small, domestic or wild—in her work and in those who are impacted by her work and in others who strive every day to make this world a better place for all creatures. ‘ Ď?‹Â?† ‘—– Â?‘”‡ ƒ„‘—– ‘…–‘” Dame Daphne Sheldrick and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, please ˜‹•‹– –Š‡ ˆ‘ŽŽ‘™‹Â?‰ ™‡„•‹–‡•ǣ ™™™Ǥ sheldrickwildlifetrust.org, www. facebook.com/thedswt, www.twitter. com/dswt, www.youtube.com/ dswtkenya, www.iworry.org.

Simply Pets Magazine | Winter 2016 Issue

13

Subscribe Today

1 Year for $19.95

Save 25%

Laugh. Share. Play. SIMPLY PETS MAGAZINE 620 South Orcas Street #80651, Seattle, Washington 98108 | 310.773.1406 www.simplypetsmagazine.com | info@simplypetsmagazine.com facebook/simplypetsmagazine SimplyPetsMag simplypetsmagazine

52

Simply Pets Magazine | Winter 2016 Issue

Simply Pets Media simply pets radio simply pets magazine simply pets shopping network simply pets television

a lifestyle brand for people who love pets and animals WWW.SIMPLYPETSMEDIA.COM L.S.P. ~ Laugh. Share. Play.

Simply Pets Magazine | Winter 2016 Issue

53

HOME, HOLIDAY, FAMILY, & PETKIDS

T

his is a time of traditions for many families, and mine is no different. Growing up Catholic and sharing a birthday month with Jesus,

ϐ Ǩ always felt extra blessed in December. My dad worked for Boeing and had two weeks off every year between Christmas and New Year’s. I thought everyone’s dad had those two weeks off. As I got older, I realized that wasn’t the case, but I carry forth this tradition with my team. I ask that only a skeleton crew check in and make sure that nothing gets left undone. Everyone else checks emails from home when time permits, but otherwise, I tell them to rest and enjoy the season as the new year is always a busy one! But when I was little, my family and I had extra family time, and was it great! I grew up in a family of six humans (me, my sister, my two brothers, my mom and my dad) and at any given time two to four petkids as well. We always had a cat and a dog, but over the years our crew included extra dogs and cats, birds—wild and tame, rabbits, and just about anything I (and yes, I was the main ring leader) thought needed a home! Lovingly my parents ϐ one more. Christmas was always a special time, and although everything was decorated and we celebrated all month long, the main event started Christmas Eve. We

Lisa Smith Putnam {LSP} with petkids Blizzard and Coopah

counted down the clock till the big guy’s arrival with nervous anticipation of delight! After dinner and showers, we all dressed up as a family, and we kids tried to be on our best behavior for Mom and Dad. We braved the cold and sometimes snow as my father ensured we traveled safely to and from midnight mass. You would think that it would be hard for us kids to stay awake, but, no, not this evening. We were wide awake! It was magical; it was wonderful. The church was packed. But seeing so many familiar and unfamiliar faces together and fully understanding the meaning for the season was a good thing. Friends and family shared love as we Catholics celebrated the birth of Jesus. Having grown up in a neighborhood with so many different people and religions, my family and I came to love and celebrate all people and their faiths

and traditions. The one thing that bonded us was that we were good people and respected each other and how each enriched our lives as neighbors and friends. I honor my many friends and readers of different faiths and traditions during this special time. May everyone ϐ Ǥ Back to Christmas Eve, we kids came home from midnight mass and went straight to bed. Mom encouraged us by letting us know that Santa would soon be there. Even our PetKids seemed to jump into bed and quickly fall asleep. Funny how ϐ once you awake it will be Christmas Day. And Christmas Day soon arrived! It ϐ Ǩ Waking up before daybreak on Christmas was easy. Heavenly smells came from the kitchen, and the Christmas music seemed to be singing to me and begging me to do a

Simply Pets Magazine | Winter 2016 Issue

79

Home, holiday, family, & petkids singalong. And I did! Even if I didn’t know the words, I hummed as loud as I could and requested a dance from my petkids and with the little petkids, like my cat(s). I held them and whisked them around like only the best dance partner could do while listening to the holiday sounds. All these years later, I realize that neither Mom nor Dad got much sleep. Mom was busy cooking and wrapping, and Dad was busy putting together toys, a bike, a dollhouse, a hot wheel track–something always needed putting together. Mom and Dad always were so delighted as all of us kids and petkids opened presents, happy that Christmas Day was ϐ Ǥ unwrapped presents and shared. Eventually we all got dressed. We kids had to do a few chores before playing more with our toys, and there was always a petkid who needed fresh water, a walk, and feed. An early dinner came soon, and knowing the feast that waited, even as kids we didn’t want to eat much to spoil our appetites. After days of food preparations by Mom—oh, how she labored for hours and days making a delicious dinner for her family, we enjoyed turkey with all the trimmings, yams, green beans, and so much more, including every dessert a child could dream of. The typical Christmas cookies always tasted so great straight out of the oven. What a feast! Mom never once complained or acted like she had something better to do. With kids and petkids everywhere, presents she and my father had spent hours wrapping disappeared in minutes. Food that took days to prepare was eaten in seconds, and Christmas paper was scattered everywhere. Wow. Mom and Dad, along with Santa, thought of everything. We kids rushed straight to our presents and were never disappointed. No matter what Santa brought, we all got everything we wanted. I must say, though, my siblings and I always cared about those children who had not, so none of us ever went overboard on our Christmas list. Don’t get me wrong—I must tell you I really scored having my birthday close to Christmas. My family always made sure we celebrated it separately, but I felt spoiled because December was one big celebratory month. And yes, my parents even remembered the petkids, and they enjoyed getting their dog and cat presents. I grew up in Seattle, and even the weather knew that it had to whip up a special order for Christmas. Usually it

80

was cold, windy, and wet, which made ϐ Ǥ had snow, before cleaning up for dinner, ϐ soccer with the dog petkids delighted us. After dinner came dessert and one of ǣ Ǥ Ǥǯ for the annual Smith family movie night. ϐ or sofa with a blanket or sleeping bag. Of course, we grabbed a petkid to snuggle. Then let the movie watching begin. Even the petkids knew this was the night we’d all been waiting for all year. ϐ Ǥ ϐ and acted as our nightlight while we hunkered down for our movie marathon. Even after eating my mom’s amazing dinner, on Christmas, we all, even the petkids, had snacks. While we watched the television screen, we somehow managed to eat more cookies, drink a little more eggnog, and even grab more turkey. The movies we watched were the classics like Rudolph, Miracle on 34th Street, A Christmas Story (the one with Ralphie and the BB gun—if you’ve never seen it, grab a copy for the whole family; you’ll be laughing and glad you did), White Christmas …. The list could go on and on, especially as we got older and our busier schedules didn’t allow us to watch during the year. The movie marathon was a perfect way to catch up on movies from drama to comedy. It was such fun. If we’d had digital streaming services back then, we would have called it binge watching. Eventually we fell asleep one by one, and our movie marathon turned into a makeshift slumber party. The next morning, we woke up to the sound of my dad making breakfast singlehandedly—a delicious post-Christmas feast. Who knew Dad was such a great cook? Maybe his dayafter-Christmas breakfast was a present to my mom to thank her for the fantastic Christmas meal she prepared. Any good partner knows giving a hardworking mom a break is always a good idea. Dad called us to the table when breakfast was ready, and we shared stories while passing food. We talked about some of the movies we’d just watched (giving our thumbs up or thumbs down). We laughed, ate, and went back to movie watching. Usually we needed to replay the tail end of the last movie we watched, because most of us had fallen asleep and missed the ending. We kids would still be in our p.j.’s (Mom and Dad were dressed, though,

Simply Pets Magazine | Winter 2016 Issue

just in case company stopped by). As we got older and knew company always stopped by, we decided it might be wise to be dressed too, but otherwise we didn’t interrupt our day-after plans! I’d like to tell you all these fond memories are from my childhood, but it’s pretty much the same today. It’s just that I’m a big kid now, and there are more bodies, husbands, wives, petkids galore, nieces, nephews, and now even a great niece to boot. Mom always made sure the petkids got a special piece of turkey, and I carry ϐ to this day. Mom is no longer with us, but I can still hear her say, “It’s Christmas; give the pets a small piece of turkey. They’ve been good too.” So Coopah, Blizzard, Jaxxs, Tinka, and Scooter will get their small turkey morsel with their Christmas dinner this year. Who am I kidding? They will have a little bite of turkey with their breakfast and lunch too. I give thanks for so many blessings, and I’m so thankful for what the season brings. If you’re traveling, I wish safe travels for you and your petkids. Enjoy friends ǡ ϐ ǡ volunteer at a shelter for pets or humans. This time of year, everyone can use a helping hand and appreciate a smiling Ǥ ǫ ǯ ϐ my petkids and my family. I'll let you in on one more secret. I work hard all year, but Christmas Eve is my favorite night of the year. It’s when I get my best sleep ever! I call it my Christmas sleep. It’s the best sleep night of the year because I usually have no business calls and no place to be. My only care is just to be. I snuggle in and sleep like a baby. So you see, December really is the month for me—launching Simply Pets Magazine, enjoying my birthday, celebrating Christmas, and relishing Christmas sleep! From my heart and house to yours this holiday season, I wish you a great Christmas sleep, a wondrous holiday, holiday, and a fantastic New Year! holida

I am Lisa Smith Putnam {LSP}…that’s me! Founder & Publisher of Simply Pets Magazine CEO of Simply Pets Media twitter @lisasmithputnam facebook/lisasmithputnam

Simply Pets Magazine | Winter 2016 Issue

83

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.