Pets fall 2016

Pet Connection SOUTHERN LAKES

FALL 2016

Inside

Winter pet tips Adopt a pet Leash your cat A Southern Lakes Newspapers publication 2016

• TIP LIST FOR PETS •

keeping your dog fit and healthy For pet owners and their four-legged friends, interacting with other dogs provides great opportunities for exercise and socialization. Whether it’s playing at the dog park, hiking through the woods, strolling around town or making new friends at doggy daycare, these activities can improve your dog’s mental and physical well-being. They can also put your dog at risk for exposure to health threats.

An ounce of prevention “We all love getting out of the house with our furry friends, but it’s important to remember that serious danger lurks in the grass, community water bowl or, if you travel with your dog, in another city,” advises Julia Szabo, pet lifestyle expert. “With the right knowledge, advice from your trusted veterinarian and some simple preventive measures, it’s easy to keep your dog happy and healthy.”

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2016

What pet owners need to know to protect their dogs

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• Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date.

• Always discuss your pet’s lifestyle with your veterinarian to identify potential health risks and preventive measures.

• Remember to mention travel if your dog goes on the road with you, as other areas of the country may represent different health threats than what you face at home.

• Keep your pet away from wild animals, as they often carry disease, and don’t allow your dog to drink from unclean water sources given that certain diseases can be spread there.

• Check regularly for ticks, which will help reduce the risk of disease transmission.

Lyme disease, for example, can impact your pet’s health, as well as your own.

• Fleas don’t just live on

your pet – they also live in your home. Vacuuming thoroughly can kill fleas and remove their eggs, helping you stop infestations. After vacuuming, seal the vacuum bag in a garbage bag and discard it in an outdoor trash container.

“Fleas and ticks are yearround hazards in many areas of the country, so it’s critical to talk to your veterinarian about choosing the right product to protect your pets from these parasites and keep them out of homes,” recommends Szabo.

“BRAVECTO (fluralaner) is the only oral chew to deliver flea and tick protection to dogs for up to 12 full weeks.

Bravecto kills fleas, prevents flea infestations, and kills ticks (black-legged tick, American dog tick, and brown dog tick) for 12-weeks. It also kills lone star ticks for 8-weeks.”

Canine Influenza: An increasing health threat You can get the flu, but did you know your dog can

• Visit a groomer?

• Attend dog shows or

Take a little extra other social events with time to show your dogs? pets how much they • Greet other dogs mean to you. during walks?

“I’ve seen the devastating impact of CIV first hand – both on a dog’s health and the emotional toll it takes on owners,” said veterinarian Natalie Marks, DVM, and co-owner of the Blum Animal Hospital in Chicago.

“When CIV H3N2 broke in our area, we were seeing upwards of 15 cases a day at times and were scrambling to stop the spread of this very contagious disease.

Now we know what we are dealing with and are able to protect at-risk dogs through vaccination and FILE PHOTO Pet Connection other measures.

I strongly recommend that as well? It’s called canine pet owners with dogs that are influenza (CIV) – or dog flu social and regularly commingle – and cases of it have been popping up all over the country. with other dogs speak to their veterinarian now about what is In fact, canine influenza has right for their pet and to fully impacted dogs in more than understand what puts a dog at half the country – just since risk for CIV.” March 2015 – and new cases If you answered yes to one are being diagnosed every or more of these questions, week. talk with your veterinarian There are two strains of to determine whether CIV canine influenza present in the vaccination is appropriate for dog population – H3N8 and your dog.

H3N2, the latter is an Asian To learn more about strain of CIV and is brand new protection against CIV, fleas in the United States. Because and ticks, and other pet CIV is so contagious, infection wellness topics, visit MyPet. can spread quickly among com. social dogs.

Important Safety Vaccinating for both strains Information: The most of CIV and minimizing common adverse reactions exposure to potential risk factors are critical to protecting recorded in clinical trials were vomiting, decreased appetite, your pet. diarrhea, lethargy, polydipsia, and flatulence. Bravecto has not been shown to be effective for 12-weeks duration in puppies less than 6 months of • Play at dog parks? age. Bravecto is not effective • Visit doggy daycare? against lone star ticks beyond • Board or stay at a pet 8-weeks after dosing. hotel?

(BPT)

Know your dog’s risk – Does your dog:

FILE PHOTO Pet Connection

This winter, take care to protect your furry friends from winter woes by following these simple tips to keep them safe and happy.

Tips to protect your pets this winter Warm up on walks

wipe down paws with a damp cloth before he or she has a chance to lick them.

Take shelter

It’s always best to provide warm, dry shelter indoors for your pets in the winter If you decide to brave the cold for daily months, however, if your pets must stay walks, there are a few risks to keep in mind. outdoors, there are a few ways to make Wind chill can be dangerous, no matter their shelter safe and comfortable. what the temperature is, according to The The Humane Society recommends Humane Society. Pets can be at risk for raising the shelter a few inches off the frostbite and hypothermia during extreme ground and covering the floor with cedar cold snaps, and exposed skin on noses, ears shavings or straw. The doorway should be and paw pads can quickly freeze and suffer positioned away from the wind, and the permanent damage. shelter covered with waterproof burlap or On walks, keep your pet warm with a heavy plastic. The American Veterinary sweater or coat. Small booties or paw gel Medical Association urges owners to will help keep sensitive paws from freezing. provide unlimited access to fresh water.

And if you’d rather not risk a slippery walk Change the water frequently to avoid outside, try exercising your furry friend at freezing, or use a heated water bowl. an indoor dog park or doggy daycare.

Stay safe

The salt used to de-slick an icy road can be dangerous and toxic to pets, often irritating the pads of their feet. In addition, coolants and antifreeze may drip from cars, making an easy transfer to sensitive paws.

When returning from a walk, be sure to

Keep pets secure

Consider your pet’s car safety before pulling out of the driveway. Pet carriers, car seats and back seat barriers can provide additional safety as you drive, especially in the event of an accident or sudden stop.

Also, you may want to explore pet injury coverage. For example, Erie Insurance

automatically covers up to two dogs and/or cats that are injured in your vehicle during an accident. For more information, visit www.ErieInsurance.com.

“Your pet’s overall health and safety depends on your preparedness,” says Cody Cook, Erie Insurance vice president and product manager. “Check with your insurance company to make sure your pets are covered in the event of an accident.

That way, instead of worrying about medical costs, you can have the peace of mind knowing they’re protected.”

(STATEPOINT)

Southern Lakes

PET CONNECTION Fall 2016

Published by Southern Lakes Newspapers LLC 1102 Ann St., Delavan, WI 53115 • (262) 728-3411 Editor: Tracy Ouellette Editorial Assistant: Sharon Soch Creative/Production Manager: Sue Z. Lange Advertising Director: Vicki Vanderwerff Special Sections Advertising: Karen Dubinsky

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2016

The cold weather can be just as hard on pets as it is on people. This winter, consider these tips to keep your four-legged family members safe and warm.

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The best nature has to offer Local pet supply store is all about healthy choices

BY Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

oday proper nutrition and exercise are important to most of us. We try to eat properly and stand in the grocery store reading the contents of canned and frozen items to see if items detrimental to our health are contained. We try to shop the outside perimeter of the supermarket where the fresh fruits and vegetables are displayed.

Yet when it comes to our pets, many people just head for the pet food aisle and grab a bag of dog or cat food without giving it much thought. Maybe the brand chosen is one that is remembered from a cute commercial or because it is on sale.

The owner of Nature’s Feed in Spring Grove, Ill., Dorothy Vetrovec, hopes to change that way of shopping for our pets.

“Just as we need good nutrition and foods free of fillers and carcinogens, so do our pets,” Dorothy said.

Vetrovec is passionate about pets especially concerning their proper care and feeding. So passionate that she left a highpaying job in the corporate world to pursue her interest.

“I found that after 15 years, I had lost my passion for selling software and needed to find another line of work, one that I was really passionate about,” she said.

And so she did.

While she did not set out to open a feed store, she did know that animals were her passion. She volunteered regularly at an animal shelter, owned two dogs and a cat, and had fostered dogs awaiting adoption.

Sharing thoughts with family and friends about the possibility of a new business, the idea of a food store for pets was bounced around. The idea of a store that carried a

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Pet Connection

Bentley, the store cat, enjoys free run of the store and loves it when people come to visit.

variety of feed for dogs and cats, not just common grocery store pet food but foods that were nutritionally sound became the answer.

And so eight years ago, Nature’s Feed was born.

she said.

Just as with people food, reading labels is important. There are items, especially in highly processed foods that should never be eaten. It is especially important to limit the amount of “fillers” usually carbohydrates used in the food.

Education is the most important part of the Corn, wheat and soy are known to cause service that is provided according to Vetrovec. inflammation, which is often responsible for “I ask a lot of questions about their pets the development of diseases. Corn is one and then give them articles and magazines of the highest genetically modified of the about nutrition so that they can decide for carbohydrates and is especially discouraged, themselves how they wish to feed their pets,” Vetrovec said.

Getting the word out

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2016

Since 1976

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Cat Rescue • Shelter Sanctuary • Adoption

n Complete Medical & Surgical Care n Boarding and Grooming n House Calls

People Helping Cats Helping People

Dr. Steven Benzon • Dr. Wayne Benstead Dr. Chrissy Nawash • Dr. Robert Patyk W7702 Hwy. 11, Delavan • Clinic: 262-728-3303 Boarding & Grooming: 262-728-8354 www.delavananimalclinic.com

Touched by a Paw 182 West Main Street • Whitewater, WI 53190

(262) 473-4769 www.touchedbyapaw.org

JANNA BURHOP - DIRECTOR 180823

236420

Secondly, the pet needs to be emotionally fit. To provide emotional fitness time must be spent with the animal.

“No matter how tired you are when you return home from work, take the time to spend at least a few minutes with your pet,” Vetrovec said. “Remember he has been home alone all day and needs to connect with you.

Take the time to train your dog to respond to you.”

The store itself is a pet friendly Maintaining a clean environment for the environment. Many customers bring their pet is so important. This includes avoiding dogs in with them. Employees and Vetrovec chemicals on your floors and carpets. Pets also bring their dogs to work with them. spend most of their time on the floor so their Bentley, the resident store cat, is often found exposure to these substances is very high. on the counter taking in the activity around Many of them cause allergic reactions and him. And there is always plenty of activity. some may be carcinogenic.

Nature’s Feed is large and packed not only Health care is the last of the pillars. Just with the food for dogs and cats but all the as humans have a yearly physical so should other items needed to care for the animals. pets be taken to a reputable veterinarian.

Treats, chews, and toys sure to please even the Find a vet with whom you are comfortable most finicky cat or dog. Nature’s Feed also communicating. Always be your pet’s carries food for horses. Birdseed is available advocate, ask questions and research what is to fill your bird feeder. best for your dog or cat.

Nature’s Feed, in addition to providing healthy food, offers a holistic approach to A well trained dog is a well behaved and pet care. Seminars taught on site share this holistic approach. The seminar titled The Four happy dog. Classes in dog training are offered Pillars of Health focuses on the needs of pets. here at Nature’s Feed. Classes offered are given in a positive training environment using Number one is the need for good nutrition. cat eating habits is their fluid intake. While a dog will lap up the water in his dish, the cat will only drink a small amount. They seek their liquid in their food so it is important to incorporate some moist food in their diet. Without enough fluid intake cats tend to become dehydrated and more at risk for urinary tract infections.

What the store offers

Classes at the store

Nature’s Feed owner Dorothy Vetrovec with her dog Madeleine at the Spring Grove pet store.

Vetrovec’s love of animals prompted her to leave her corporate job and devote her time to encouraging proper feeding and training of pets.

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Pet Connection

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2016

If synthetic preservatives such as BHT and BHA are listed among the ingredients, don’t even consider purchasing them, as they are believed to be cancer producing. Artificial flavorings and coloring have no place in your pet’s food.

So what foods should we be feeding our pets?

“The more natural the food, the better,” Vetrovec advised. “Less processing provides healthier foods. Raw food diets are recommended especially if there are health concerns.”

Dehydrated and freeze dried foods are also recommended.

When questioned about what brand of food she would recommend, Vetrovec said that would be a difficult question to answer as there is no one size fits all.

“I always ask a lot of questions including the breed, age, whether the dog is over or underweight and its medical condition,” she said.

Cats present different health problems than dogs When choosing foods for cats the same meticulous questioning is followed. Cats unlike dogs tend to hide their illness.

“It is often difficult to know when the cat is ill,” Vetrovec said.

One of the differences between dog and

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positive reinforcement, force free technique.

Classes are taught by Robin Taylor, a knowledgeable and experienced dog trainer, who only uses a positive reinforcement means of training the dogs. Classes are available for puppies and for older dogs.

Dog training classes are six weeks in length with each session lasting approximately one hour. Classes are kept small; no more than six to a class ensuring individual attention.

Cost for class is $150.

Taylor is a certified nose trainer instructor. Nose training is recommended for very active dogs to burn off some of their excess energy. Nose training consists of training the dog to locate a specific item with a certain scent. Contact Nature’s Feed for more information on nose training.

Whatever is needed for your pets is certain to be found here at Natures Feed.

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2016

Thinking about getting a pet?

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Ready for a new pet in your life? Vetrovec recommends that you do some research before jumping in. Consider your family’s life style and composition. If you have young children who are able to care for and help exercise the dog, a younger dog and more active breed may fit in with your family.

If the dog is for companionship for an older person a quieter perhaps older dog may be more appropriate.

Check out the characteristics of the breeds that may fit the family.

Not sure the family is ready to have a dog full time? Maybe fostering a dog will give you the answer. Dogs that are fostered are rescue dogs that are placed with a family temporarily before being adopted.

Vetrovec recommends that anyone who is considering a new pet look into adoption. Many rescue dogs are available from the occasional pedigree puppy to older dogs. Many people mistakenly believe that dogs adopted from a shelter have major problems. Often they are placed in a shelter because the family is just not able to care for them any longer.

If you are certain that you want a puppy, go to a reputable breeder. Visit the dogs in their environment and see how they

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Pet Connection

are being cared for. Ask to see the parents of the puppy and note their condition. Ask about medical history of the line. Ask for references from those who have purchased dogs from this breeder. Never purchase a puppy in a pet store or from a known puppy mill.

Consider a cat if you feel that a dog is more than can be managed at this stage of your life. Cats are more independent and don’t have to be walked. But

they still require your attention and companionship. Just as for dogs, consider rescuing a cat from a shelter.

Whatever your pet needs stop in at Nature’s Feed for food, supplies or toys. Questions can be answered by any of their longtime knowledgeable staff.

If they don’t have the answer they will direct you to the proper source.

“We provide information to help you make educated

decisions on the best way to care for your pets,” Vetrovec said.

Nature’s Feed is at 2440 Westward Drive, Unit C, Spring Grove, Ill., just one block north of Route 12 off Winn Road and are next to the Post Office.

Contact them at (815) 675-2008, www.Naturesfeed.net or find it on Facebook.

Hours are 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Monday through Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.

Help Lassie (and Fluffy) come home Each year, 14 percent of dogs and 15 percent of cats escape or are abandoned, and while most will naturally return to their owners, there are over a million lost animals wandering around America. Fortunately, yours don’t have to be among them.

That’s because there’s now a free app with a “lost pet” function to make pets easier to track. All the other users of the app will be mobilized to help you. When your pet comes close to another Canhe-Fit user, an alert message appears on their phone.

In addition, the technology will also monitor your pet’s eating and exercise so you and your veterinarian can make any adjustments necessary to keep your cat or dog fit and healthy.

A REAL FIND

The device can also help you locate a great investment for yourself and presents for your pet. When you contribute to the Indiegogo campaign that features several versions of this Canhe-Fit product, you’re eligible for all sorts of special perks.

Various options for all budgets include the opportunity to donate to an animal welfare association of your choice and have the amount matched up to 10 percent of your support.

For more information on donation packages and the Indiegogo campaign, visit www. indiegogo.com/project/preview/fde840fd#/.

For more on the company, visit www.canhe(NAPS) gat.com.

FILE PHOTO Pet Connection

Your cat or dog can be safer and healthier and you could be wealthier with the help of a fundraising campaign for a pet fitness and tracking device.

adopt-a-pet HARLEY

5 years, neutered male, Pit Bull Terrier mix

Sponsored by:

J & N VILLAGE AUTOMOTIVE • 262-363-9450

260821

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

BONNIE

ARGOS

4 years 2 months, spayed female, Pit Bull Terrier mix

2 1/2 years, neutered male, Plott Hound mix

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000 Sponsored by:

260819

MAGGIE

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000 Sponsored by:

RIVER CREST TIRE & AUTO 262-363-4789 260820

DIAMOND

4 to 5-years-old, pure Boxer, prefers to be only dog

Sweet, adult male. He is Miss Kitty’s mate. They are a pair.

Contact Vicki at 262-496-9324 www.tinypawssmalldogrescue.org

Contact Sherry at 262-705-0731 www.tinypawssmalldogrescue.org

Sponsored by:

NATURE’S FEED • 815-675-2008

Sponsored by:

260816

GRAYSLAKE FEED • 847-223-4855

260818

CHELSEA

BERT

New arrival, 10-year-old, sweet retired Pup Mill Yorkie

8-year-old Chug, Couldn’t get any cuter if she tried!

Contact Vicki at 262-496-9324 www.tinypawssmalldogrescue.org

Contact Vicki at 262-496-9324 www.tinypawssmalldogrescue.org Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

CANDY’S CANINES • 847-838-4820

260813

WELCOME HOME PET SERVICE • 847-973-8129

260815

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2016

JOHN AMATO FORD • 262-363-3085

These lovable animals are all up for adoption and hoping you’ll give them a happy new home!

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PET CONNECTION • FALL 2016

Adopting an older pet means its size and temperament are established, increasing your chance of finding the perfect companion for your household.

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Lots of life LEFT IN SENIOR PETS

FILE PHOTO Pet Connection

Every day, in shelters all across the country, senior animals are passed over by prospective pet owners. Why? Some people are looking for the energy of a new puppy or feel older dogs offer families too little time.

“Any shelter worker will tell you, puppies and kittens get adopted first and older shelter pets have a higher likelihood of being euthanized,” says Andrea Arden, a dog trainer who’s been featured on Animal Planet and the Today Show, and spokeswoman for Tractor Supply Company’s Pet Appreciation Week. “But if you’re considering adoption, there are great reasons to choose a more mature pet.”

Older animals can be just as cute and lovable as their younger counterparts. In fact, they often come with many wonderful qualities that take years to develop in younger animals.

Here are a few benefits to consider as you’re looking for a forever friend:

Saving a life

It’s no secret that senior pets are at a disadvantage in shelters.

Not only do they have a lower likelihood of adoption, they are also more prone to depression and confusion as a result of their new environment. Consider how they got there – more often than not, a senior animal ends up in a shelter due to owner surrender.

It could be an older owner’s declining health, an unforeseen move or a sudden change in financial situation. Still, these are wonderful, loving animals that simply had no place to go.

By choosing to adopt a senior pet, you’re providing a second chance at life and, with that, can come a lot of fulfillment.

Say so long to training

Lucky for you, the majority of senior animals have already learned the fundamentals – everything from toilet training to various commands to leash walking. Not having to spend weeks and weeks on training can be a valuable perk of adopting a senior pet.

See SENIOR PETS, Page 10

adopt-a-pet MINDY

MISS KITTY

3 years 2 months, DSH tiger, spayed female

Miss Kitty is a mate to Diamond. They are a pair.

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Contact Sherry at 262-705-0731 www.tinypawssmalldogrescue.org

Sponsored by:

LEGACY FUNERAL SERVICES 262-642-5057 260794

Sponsored by:

GYPSY GLEN K-9 KASTLE • 815-385-8585

NIGEL

260810

SQUIRT

4 years 10 months - neutered male Pit Bull/Terrier mix

Cute, younger, female cat. She likes to be close to you and play.

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Contact Sherry at 262-705-0731 www.tinypawssmalldogrescue.org

Sponsored by:

KCG ACCOUNTING SERVICE 262-895-7702 260796

PRINCESS

Squirt: bottom

Sponsored by:

CLAWS-N-PAWS • 815-363-7387

260809

BUDDY

3-1/2 year old - spayed female Pit Bull/Terrier mix

Lab mix, Age 1, Ex-bait dog deserves love!

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Contact Vicki at 262-496-9324 www.tinypawssmalldogrescue.org

PEABODY

Sponsored by:

D & S ROOFING • 847-587-3472

FRENCHI

2 years - neutered male Pit Bull/Terrier mix

5 years old - spayed female Dachshund/Jack Russell Terrier

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Sponsored by:

TOP PAWS GROOMING 262-878-9393 260799

RAMBO

Sponsored by:

HORN BROS., INC. 262-679-1717 2 years old - neutered male Pit Bull/Terrier mix

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Sponsored by:

CHASE

260807

ATLAS

1-1/2 years old - neutered male Pit Bull/Terrier mix

MOLITOR PET & BIRD CLINIC 262-763-8113 260800

260808

Sponsored by:

PLAYMATE KENNEL 262-878-1550

260806

ANGELO

2 years 9 months - neutered male Pointer mix

2 years 8 months - neutered male Pit Bull/Terrier mix

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Sponsored by:

DARIEN STORAGE DEPOT 262-724-5094 260801

Sponsored by:

BRONCO BARBERS 262-878-2750

260804

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2016

260798

Sponsored by:

SOUTHERN LAKES PLUMBING & HEATING, INC. • 262-723-6422

These lovable animals are all up for adoption and hoping you’ll give them a happy new home!

9

• Senior pets

(Continued from page 8)

Age is but a number

Something for everyone

Plays well with others

Wonderful years ahead

However, should you want to teach an older dog a new trick, you’re in luck.

Animals can be trained at any age – in fact, more mature animals may have a longer attention span, so you may actually find it easier to teach your senior pet something new.

Have a cat? No problem, many senior dogs have already lived in a home with felines.

Lots of love, less destruction

Senior pets are typically well past the search-and-destroy phase, minimizing the possibility of unwanted accidents and bad behavior.

The mellow disposition of a senior animal makes them a great companion for people of all ages. Their lower energy level is often a perfect fit for the elderly, while their calm presence can be great for families with children.

Arden urges pet parents not to let the shorter lifespan of an older pet keep you from adopting one. Depending on the breed, a dog of 7 or 8 years may have at least as many good years left ahead, and most breeds of domestic cats can easily live to be 15 or older. It’s also important to note that while veterinary attention and medication are needed for animals of all ages, old age doesn’t necessarily mean higher costs.

“You wouldn’t avoid making a human

friendship just because the new person in your life is mature,” Arden says. “When you adopt an older animal, you can still have plenty of time to enjoy their companionship.

Because they’re older, you’ll be inspired to make every moment with them as loving and rewarding as possible.”

Preparing for senior pets

Good nutrition and regular veterinary checkups are important for all pets, especially seniors. Look for a specialized food such as 4health Premium Pet Food to ensure your pet is receiving the vitamins and minerals needed to stay healthy. You can also find walk-in PetVet Clinics at Tractor Supply stores where you can save as much as 70 percent off the cost of yearly vaccinations, microchipping and other preventative treatment options.

(BPT)

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2016

Providing a new home for an older animal may bring you a level of companionship you never imagined.

10

FILE PHOTO Pet Connection

adopt-a-pet

These lovable animals are all up for adoption and hoping you’ll give them a happy new home!

HERV

MILO

3 years, 7 months - FELV+ DSH Tiger - neutered male

2 1/2 years, neutered male, Catahoola Leopard dog mix

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Sponsored by:

ANIMAL HOSPITAL OF UNION GROVE • 262-878-3333 260764

COSMO

Sponsored by:

EAST TROY BODYWORKS • 262-642-2022

260782

REGINA

10 months - neutered male Labrador Retriever mix

3 years 2 months, spayed female, Pit Bull Terrier mix

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Sponsored by:

K&D HEATING & COOLING 262-949-1892 260766

WILBUR

Sponsored by:

URBAN HERRIGES & SONS 262-363-4200 260783

WREN

FIV+ - 5 years, 8 months DSH Tiger - neutered male

2 years, spayed female, Pit Bull Terrier mix

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by: MARTIN’S HARDWARE RENTAL & PET

LAKES AREA GARAGE DOOR 262-742-3159 260768

BAXTER

262-642-3344

STEVE

2 years, 2 months neutered male - DSH Black

2 years, neutered male, Chihuahua

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

BAY VIEW VETERINARY CLINIC 260767

LUCY

2 years 7 months, spayed female, American Bulldog mix

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

260786

LITTLE FACE

DMH grey tiger, spayed female, 2 1/2 years old

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Sponsored by:

EAST TROY SEPTIC SERVICE 262-642-5364 260771

Sponsored by:

BICHON & LITTLE BUDDIES RESCUE 414-750-0152

260788

GABI

VINCE

9 years 2 months, spayed female, DSH Tort

2 1/2 years, neutered male, Pit Bull Terrier mix

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000 Sponsored by:

SHADOW’S PET SERVICE • 262-662-4838

262-363-9993

260778

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000 Sponsored by:

JAMES R. TAYLOR & SONS 262-642-7970 260789

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2016

JIM’S AUTO BODY 262-763-9250

260784

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• PET RESORT CATERS TO •

pampered pooches Cedar Dale’s new owner aims to delivers top-notch canine care

BY Christopher Bennett CORRESPONDENT

Kelly Everson is concerned with fences, and once the reason is made clear it helps explain why it’s in her nature to nurture.

Everson, the owner of Cedar Dale Pet Resort in Genoa City, Wis., recently planted two trees in her spacious grass playground area.

The reason why is evident on a steamy Saturday, as dogs run and jump and mingle and play. Some will eventually desire a shady spot in which to flop and just be calm for a few minutes, and the trees will serve them well.

Unless the two trees die before taking root because the dogs peed all over them – hence the fence.

Chuckle if you must, but this level of attention to pet comfort is evident throughout Cedar Dale. Everson, in her first full year as owner, is hands-on, and is putting her stamp on Cedar Dale one nail trimming, overnight stay and pleased pet owner at a time.

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2016

Back to her roots

12

Everson, a native of the Green Bay area, left Wisconsin in her mid-20s and ventured to Boston, where she lived for five years.

She spent the last 13 years in San Diego.

“I was looking at different kennels and training facilities in California,” Everson said. “There wasn’t one I found that was a good fit.

“I saw some on the east coast, and I decided if I was going to move back east, I might as well look for one in the Midwest, to be close to friends and family.”

Everson lives on-site, which considerably decreased her travel time to work.

“I’m here all the time, which is good and bad,” Everson said. “The commute is nice. I used to spend 45 minutes driving 13 miles. Now I go 13 steps and I’m at work.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO Pet Connection

Kelly Everson, owner of Cedar Dale Pet Resort in Genoa City, spends time with two of the dogs in her care at Cedar Dale Pet Resort. Everson intends to someday use Cedar Dale’s facilities to become a presence in the pet rescue and adoption community.

Everson said Cedar Dale cares for between 20 and 30 boarded dogs per night and 10 to 15 daily in day care.

Everson purchased the business and property from previous owners Peter DiBrito and Bruce Swinton. Everson traveled to Genoa City in October of last year, examined the site and considered her options. She took over in December.

“I had to make sure I was coming somewhere I could actually live,” Everson said. “The proximity to Milwaukee and Chicago and Madison is nice. I didn’t know if I was going to miss being near a city.”

Everson said Swinton and DiBrito built a business with a sterling reputation for pampering pets. Cedar Dale is an

institution among area animal lovers.

“Everyone who has pets in the area either knows someone, or has been here before, and knows of Cedar Dale,” Everson said. “Everyone has good things to say about it.”

Everson said she still talks to Swinton and DiBrito, and said she maintains a good relationship with the two. They sold to Everson over other buyers.

“There were other potential buyers, but they really wanted me to have it because of my passion for animals and what I wanted to do with the business to help the animals and expand it,” Everson said. “They like all of my ideas – we kind

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• Pooches

(Continued from page 12)

of bounce things off each other – and keep in contact. They’re really great guys.”

of care appropriate for a member of the family.

More importantly, they were willing to pay for it, and entrepreneurs like Everson filled a A touch of Cali need. Cedar Dale opened in 1981 as a kennel Everson brought a touch of California to facility, and added services over the years, the area and Cedar Dale in several ways. She to the point where it modeled the high-end, installed Perfect Turf artificial pet grass for doggy day care experience. dogs in some of her outside areas.

The New clients are welcome to tour surface is impervious, and allows the dogs the facility during the week at times time outside if it rains without making a mess. listed on Cedar Dale’s web site –www.

“It looks great and the dogs love it,” cedardalepetresort.com.

Everson said. “They don’t know the Dogs and cats are required to have certain difference. Most kennels and boarding vaccinations before being allowed at Cedar facilities in California have it because it’s hard Dale. Boarded dogs must have the distemper/ to grow grass there.” parvo combination, rabies and bordetella Everson also purchased new blankets and (canine cough), and corona is recommended. pillows for the dogs, and hung new screens Boarded cats must have the distemper/ for shade in her play area. Her focus is on upper respiratory combination and rabies, and making sure the dogs are comfortable. feline leukemia is recommended. Proof of Cedar Dale offers grooming services, vaccinations is required at check-in. day care services and boarding. Its primary business is in servicing dogs, but cats are also Pregnancy paradox In a previous life, Everson worked at a welcome in Everson’s boarding cattery. fertility clinic, and spent her time trying to Visitors and clients alike will be pleased help couples get pregnant. On the weekends with the facility’s level of cleanliness – it she ventured to Tijuana, Mexico, and worked looks more like a place one might build at a spay and neuter clinic run by the Humane microchips than a pet day care.

Society of Tijuana. She earned a degree in Everson said the doggy day care model, as biology from the University of Wisconsinit is colloquially known, emerged and went Stevens Point. mainstream in California. Dogs are constant “I was helping people get pregnant companions for many, especially in southern California, and owners soon demanded a level during the week, and helping animals not get

pregnant on the weekends,” Everson said.

“That’s when I really got more involved in rescue and helping out other animals.”

Everson said she became more passionate about rescue shelters and pet overcrowding after learning of the thousands of cats and dogs euthanized each year in southern California.

“I tried to get as involved as I could, as my time would allow, at all pet events,’ Everson said.

Everson said she financially supports a rescue operation in Thailand that keeps dogs from being processed for food. Her passion for rescue is continuing at Cedar Dale.

She hosted an event with Safe Harbor of Kenosha on June 25, and is also becoming involved with Helping Paws Animal Shelter in Woodstock, Ill. Everson said she hopes Cedar Dale will grow to become known not only for its prestige as a pet resort and day care center, but also as a presence in rescue and adoption circles. Someday dogs that never felt love might lounge in the shade of one her newly planted trees.

“I’m hoping that we can foster a couple of dogs and keep them here, market them and help them find homes,” Everson said. “We’ll continue to have adoption events – anything we can do to be part of helping get a pet adopted.”

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Gaia displays her true nature in New York City’s Central Park to celebrate National “Take Your Cat On An Adventure” Day.

Whether it’s exploring the great outdoors or within the walls of their own home, cats have a knack for making the ordinary extraordinary.

To help cat owners rethink the ordinary and inspire them to keep the adventure alive with their cats, Purina Pro Plan partnered with Adventure Cats earlier this year as National “Take Your Cat On An Adventure” Day. This day gave cat owners an opportunity to share new experiences with their cats that they may not have considered before – such as leash training.

While it’s a responsible choice for your cat to live indoors, leash training as part of a safe outdoor experience can be a great way to enrich your cat’s life.

It’s important to recognize that an outdoor cat adventure is not like walking a dog. Leash walking a cat is about a sensory experience and exploration rather than cardiovascular activity. Leash walking takes patience and practice, but can be worth the time and effort.

Some cats may never become comfortable with leash walking due to age, personality or lifestyle. If that’s the case, there are plenty of creative ways to have indoor adventures as well. For example, you can create a DIY Hideout. Learn how

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If you do want to try leash walking with your cat, these five tips can help you get started:

cat resists or isn’t adjusting, take a break and try again later. It’s important to remember that leash walking isn’t right for every cat, so follow her lead and don’t rush the process.

GETTING ACQUAINTED

PRACTICE INDOORS

Select a fitted harness and leash (your veterinarian or an associate at a pet store can help you) and leave it out for your cat to smell and investigate. Be aware that the harness may make some new noises, so practice putting it on and taking it off so she can get accustomed to the sounds. Then try attaching the harness to the leash and use them to play with your cat to create a positive association as training continues.

TRY IT ON

Get your cat used to the harness by having her wear it a couple times a day for 15-minute intervals. It’s completely normal for cats to freeze up, refuse to walk or walk very strangely at first. She’s likely never experienced the sensation of having something on her back so it’s something she’ll need to adjust to.

GAIN COMFORT

Next, increase the amount of time she wears the harness around your home. If your

Start by touring the familiar territory of your house. Reward good behaviors like staying calm after hearing a noise, moving forward and sniffing. Hide toys or kibble around your home and have fun discovering them together. Gradually build the duration of your walks inside. Once she’s mastered this skill, you’re ready to get outside.

TAKE IT OUTSIDE

Before you walk outside, make sure your cat has her recommended vaccinations plus flea and tick prevention. Also be sure that she has a collar and tag, or microchip. Start with a short walk in an area with low noise and activity, perhaps your backyard. As she becomes more comfortable in her new surroundings, try expanding the territory you’re exploring.

GET INSPIRED

For more tips on how to adventure responsibly, visit www.mygreatcatadventure. com.

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PET CONNECTION • FALL 2016

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