Pets mar 2015 by Southern Lakes Newspapers

PET CONNECTION southern lakes • spring 2015

Pet Wellness Expo unleashes April 18

SUBMITTED PHOTO Pet Connection

Help support the Lakeland Animal Shelter by attending the Pet Wellness Expo from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, at Elkhorn Area High School. All proceeds from the ticket sales will go toward caring for the more than 2,500 animals housed at the shelter each year.

About Lakeland Animal Shelter The Lakeland Animal Shelter. 3551 Highway 67, Delavan, is a non-profit organization. Its skilled and committed staff, with the help of 50-75 dedicated volunteers, care for more than 2,500 homeless animals annually from the southeastern Wisconsin area. The ultimate goal for these animals is to reunite them with their owners or find suitable new adopted homes. Lakeland Animal Shelter spends more than $750,000 annually to care for the homeless animals it houses. This amounts to about $400 per animal. For more information, visit www. lakelandanimalshelter.org.

Ask About Summer Day Camp

STEPPING STONE FARMS School of Horsemanship 1439 92nd St., Franksville, WI 53126 • (414) 379-2314 www.steppingstonefarms.org • info@steppingstonefarms.org

If you go…

WHAT: Pet Wellness Expo WHERE: Elkhorn Area High School, 482 E. Geneva St. WHEN: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 18 COST: $5 for adults; children admitted free of charge For more information: visit www.petwellnessexpo.com

A safe and fun alternative to leaving your dog at home!

Equine Assisted Therapies, Therapeutic Horsemanship and Riding Lessons

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PET CONNECTION • SPRING 2015

ost pet owners are clear about the immediate joys of snuggling up with their furry friend, but there are a lot of other added health benefits to owning a pet. Studies show that pets can ease loneliness, reduce stress, promote social interaction and encourage exercise. Therefore having a happy, healthy pet means a happy, healthy pet parent. The Pet Wellness Expo is a one-day event focused on everything to help make your pet happy and healthy. There will be a wide variety of booths to visit including pet sitting, homemade pet treats, grooming services, pet insurance, veterinary care, animal shelters and rescues, food and nutrition for our furry friends and much more. Celebrating its 11th year, the Pet Wellness Expo will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, at Elkhorn Area High School, 482 E. Geneva St. The Pet Wellness Expo was at Burlington High School for the past 10 years but has relocated to Elkhorn to partner with Lakeland Animal Shelter. The public is invited to attend but asked to leave their pets at home as they will not be allowed into the event. General admission tickets are $5; children are admitted free of charge. All of the proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Lakeland Animal Shelter. For a complete listing of participating exhibitors visit www.petwellnessexpo. com. Exhibitor space is still available. Those interested in booth space, visit the website and fill out the exhibitor application or call (262) 215-0991.

The Six Flags of the Canine World! Day Care & Boarding at It’s Finest!

182058

SUBMITTED PHOTO Pet Connection

Choosing the proper food for the family pet is essential to a long and healthy life for the animal. Pet owners should talk to their vet about the right diet and brand for their pet.

Tips for determining PET FOOD QUALITY determine the quality of the ingredients and the nutrition found in a specific food,” says Dr. Ellen Lowery, director of U.S. Veterinary and Professional Affairs at Hill’s Pet Nutrition. “What is listed on the label is often different from what a pet parent imagines it to be, and it can be difficult to determine the true quality of the ingredients.” Dr. Lowery says pet owners should discuss their pet’s nutritional needs with your veterinarian first. He has several other tips to help pet parents find the right food for their pets, including:

Review the brand’s reputation Many start-up brands don’t have veterinary nutritionists on staff, nor do they have the facilities to test the nutritional quality of the food they make, such as through feeding trials with real pets. Established and trusted premium pet food brands like Hill’s Pet Nutrition have robust quality-assurance programs in place to ensure the quality and safety of the foods your pet consumes.

Pay attention to the regulatory statement If the pet food brand bag includes a statement containing the initials AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials), you know that the food has been tested against this organization’s measures to contain at least the minimum nutrients • SEE

PET FOOD ON PAGE 4

Southern Lakes

PET CONNECTION Spring 2015

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 • SPRING 2015

Because pets are such beloved members of the family, it isn’t a surprise that pet parents want what is right for the health of their furry friends. In fact, nearly four out of five pet owners say they choose a pet food based on how nutritious or how healthy they think it will be for their pet, while only 10 percent say they make a selection based on how their pets may like the taste, according to the Buying & Choosing Pet Food survey recently conducted by PetMD and Pet360. While the survey found that 60 percent of respondents said they always consider the label when making a pet food purchase, 34 percent of pet parents agreed that it is “virtually impossible to determine the quality of pet food ingredients simply by reading the information on the package or ingredient label.” It might surprise pet owners that what’s on the pet food container doesn’t necessarily tell them how nutritious the food is. “Pet food labels aren’t always straightforward in terms of helping pet parents

•

required for that statement to be included on the packaging. This statement simply certifies that the product contains that nutritional element – it doesn’t certify that the element is healthy for your pet, or that it will help Fido or Fluffy live a healthier life.

PET FOOD FROM PAGE 3

Know who makes the food Many pet parents assume a brand makes the food it sells but this is often not the case. Dr. Lowery recommends pet parents look for a “manufactured by” listing on the product to know if the brand made the food or is just selling it.

“I think it’s best to trust a company that makes its food under the watchful eyes of its own employees to make sure the food meets the company’s quality standards, rather than trusting the safety procedures of an unknown manufacturer,” she says. Is there a phone number to call? Brand companies should value your feedback, especially when it comes to feeding a

beloved pet. Look for a toll-free consumer phone number on the packaging that you can easily call if you have questions or need additional information. Good food will keep your dog’s tail happily wagging and your cat content and purring. Use these tips from Dr. Lowery to know what makes a premium, high-quality pet food, so you know that your pawed friends are getting the best food you can give them. (BPT)

TOP DOG GROOMING Vet Recommended

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PET CONNECTION • SPRING 2015

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Barrel racing IS AN EXCITING SPORT

Sports fans and athletes have a plethora of sports to enjoy in this country and around the world, and those options include equestrian events. Equestrian sports have a deep-rooted history and have inspired some avid fans, including those enamored with the sport of barrel racing. Barrel racing originally was established as an event for women on the rodeo circuit. While men rode bucking broncos and bulls and competed in roping events, women displayed horse speed and stamina in barrel racing competitions. Today, barrel racing primarily is a female sport at both the collegiate and professional levels. Barrel racing can be an entertaining experience for spectators and a rewarding one for riders. The goal of the barrel race is to complete a perfect pattern in the least amount of time, so the rider who completes the pattern the fastest wins the competition. The pattern riders face is a complicated cloverleaf design. Riders can choose to enter the first barrel to the left or the right. They circle the barrel and proceed across to barrel number two, then finish out at the third barrel, where they will complete the pattern and exit the course. The approach to the first barrel should be carefully timed and executed to set the stage for the rest of the course.

An official distance between barrels exists for professional races. Riders cover 90 feet between barrel one and two. There is 105 feet between barrels one and three and between barrels two and three. Finally, 60 feet marks the distance between barrels one and two and the entry/exit “score” line. According to Michigan State University Extension, barrel racing requires a mildtempered horse with natural athletic ability. Horses need to be fast, agile and intelligent. A hot-headed horse is not a good choice because he may fight the rider and cause injury. Riders also must be in tune with their horses’ movements and sit correctly in the saddle to allow the horse to hug the sides of each barrel. Riders need to be both physically fit and capable of planning ahead to accommodate for their horses’ speed. Experts advise riders run horses through repetitive drills to improve their performance. A horse learns by release and will think he’s done a good job if a rider moves on to a new task. If riders are unhappy with a turn, they should return to the same barrel over and over until it is mastered, as riders need their horses to remember the good techniques. Horses can do drills running straight lines as well as circles. Soon both horse and rider

should develop a feel for each other and move more intuitively together. Although barrel racing has been around for a long time, one of the premier governing bodies of the sport was only established 66 years ago. The Girl’s Rodeo Association was formed when 38 cowgirls came together in San Angelo, Texas, to create an organization dedicated to the promotion and advancement of women in the sport of rodeo. In 1981, the association changed its name to the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association, and it remains one of the most influential sanctioning bodies in the sport. It also is the oldest women’s sports association in the United States and the only one governed entirely by women. In 2007, the WPRA instituted the My Horse’s Choice Junior Division for girls ages 17 and under. The junior division introduces a whole new group of members to the ranks of professional competition and allows mothers and daughters to compete for world points at some of the same events. Barrel racing is most popular in the western and southern areas of the United States and some parts of Canada. To learn more about a particular racing circuit or the sport of barrel racing, visit www.wpra.com. (METRO CREATIVE)

PET CONNECTION • SPRING 2015

Rider and horse enter the turn of the cloverleaf in a barrel racing competition. Barrel racing is a female sport at both the collegiate and professional levels.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Pet Connection

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PET CONNECTION • SPRING 2015

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

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Pit Bull/Terrier mix 2 years, 7 months

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000 Sponsored by:

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Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000 Sponsored by:

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ELWOOD Boxer mix 7 months

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000 Sponsored by:

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DSH Calico 8 months - FIV+

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000 Sponsored by:

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No time to be horsin’ around Prospective horse owners should know what they’re getting into

Breed

The first to consider when mulling horse ownership is the breed. If you are unfamiliar with horses, it is best to research different breeds online and visit horse breeders and owners. Perhaps workers at a stable or farm nearby can guide your choice. There also are forums devoted to horses and care. Some recommended breeds for first-time owners include quarter horses, paints and morgans. However, all horses are individuals and may have their own unique personality traits.

Acreage and housing

Horses are large animals and will need room to exercise and roam. They require a corral or pasture to stretch their legs, so a potential horse owner will need a relatively large property to give a horse the space it needs. In addition to the corral, the horse will require a shelter from the elements. A shed or stable should be at least 10 to 12 feet in both width and length. The height of the stable should be a minimum of 8 feet. This stable will provide shelter in both the cold and heat. When establishing a pasture, be sure it is fenced in with a highly visible fence that is tall enough so that the horse cannot easily jump it. The fence should be clearly visible so the horse does not mistakenly try to go through it, risking entanglement or injury.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Pet Connection

Owning a horse isn’t like owning a cat or dog. Equine ownership requires significant investment in time and money.

Feeding

The average saddle horse weighs roughly 1,000 pounds if not more. The animal can eat anywhere from 17 to 26 pounds of feed per day. Feed is a combination of grain, hay and pasture, but salt also should be made available to the horse. If the weather prevents grazing, supplemental hay will be needed. Keep in mind hay bails can weigh up to 85 pounds. They also will take up considerable space. This is something that needs to be factored into the space requirement for a horse. Feed and water troughs can be purchased at livestock supply stores or be made from repurposed buckets and barrels. Horses need plenty of fresh water to drink and the water trough should be checked and cleaned regularly to maintain a sanitary environment.

Tack and saddles

Depending on how you use the horse, you will need saddles, reins, bits, stirrups, cinches, spurs, ropes, and collars. Saddlebags and cushions may be needed if you will be on the horse for long periods of time. If a horse tack retailer is not nearby, many items can be ordered online and shipped to your home. In addition, pitchforks, shovels, brushes and grooming supplies will be needed to keep the stable and horse clean and comfortable.

Manure

A large animal that eats several pounds of food per day will produce a lot of waste. It’s key to have a plan in place to manage manure. You may want to convert manure into organic fertilizer. Check to see if there is a way to dispose of manure in your area or donate it to be used for gardening or vegetable cooperatives. Some people will purchase manure to use in their private landscapes. Establish a strategy for manure usage or disposal before buying a horse, as manure can accumulate rapidly and attract flies and other insects.

Veterinary care

Research and develop a relationship with a veterinarian prior to purchasing a horse. Horses require routine vaccinations and examinations, and deworming is necessary to control internal parasites. Hooves will need to be trimmed regularly, so it behooves owners to establish a relationship with a qualified farrier. The vet may recommend farriers in your area. Horses are magnificent animals that can bring joy and companionship. But those interested in owning a horse must recognize that such ownership is a significant responsibility unlike more traditional pet ownership. (METRO CREATIVE)

PET CONNECTION • SPRING 2015

Children often dream of waking up one morning and finding their own horse or pony in their yards. Some people are able to make this dream a reality and own these beautiful animals. Whether raising a horse for pleasure or profession, it is important to know that caring for horses can be labor-intensive. The reward for properly taking care of a horse is a healthy and well-trained animal. But horse ownership is a significant and expensive responsibility, so it is important that prospective owners understand what they are getting into before they make any final decisions.

Adopt-A-pet

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

HARMONY

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

DSH black - female 6-1/2 months

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PEPPERMINT New Zealand - female 9 months

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000 Sponsored by:

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PIGGY & GINGER

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DOMINO

4 months Looking for a home together

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HOOTCH

DSH black - male 6-1/2 months

Pit Bull/Terrier mix 2 years, 9 months

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Sponsored by:

PET CONNECTION • SPRING 2015

GINGER

Golden Retriever/Chow Special needs heartworm positive 4 years, 3 months old

BUGGOTTI Pit Bull/Terrier mix 2 years, 9 months

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GLENDALA

Pit Bull-Terrier mix 1-1/2 years

Calico - 5 years - Special needs FIV+

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000 Sponsored by:

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What to know before bringing home an adopted dog

Getting your home ready Just as a home needs to be prepped for the arrival of a new baby, you must also make preparations for dog adoption. In fact, many shelters will even check whether your home is suitable for dog ownership with a site visit before approving your application. If you’re a homeowner, be sure to take steps to make your home more dog friendly. Decide in advance which rooms of the house your dog will be allowed to enter. Baby gates may be an option and work well as barriers for dogs. Have all the necessary items for your dog ready for his or her arrival like a leash, collar, crate and toys. Areas of the home that contain dangerous substances should also be safeguarded. For example, medications and cleaning supplies should be stored securely. If you’ve never owned a dog before, you may not have paid much attention to your neighborhood’s dog parks, trails and walkable routes. Study these locations in advance so there are no questions on day one.

To learn more about how you can help make the adoption goal a reality, visit www. coldwellbanker.com/dogs. Other considerations You should already have identified the veterinarian you plan to use before taking your dog home, as a dog’s medical care should begin immediately after adoption. Remember to budget for dog ownership.

Beyond regular supplies, food, vaccinations and check-ups, add in some padding as an emergency fund. As every dog lover knows, there is nothing quite like coming home after a long day and being greeted by man’s best friend. With a dog adoption, you can make your home an even more welcoming, comfortable place. (STATEPOINT)

Where to adopt Between six and eight million cats and dogs enter shelters each year, and 2.7 million adoptable cats and dogs are euthanized in such shelters annually, according to the Humane Society. Rather than buying a dog from a breeder, check out your local animal shelter. “Adoption has become the preferred way to find a new dog, puppy, cat or kitten,” says Abbie Moore, Executive Director, Adopt-a-Pet.com. “Not only is this often a more affordable route, but you are saving a life in the process.” Fortunately, campaigns can raise awareness about this issue and help dogs and families find each other. For example, Coldwell Banker Real Estate has partnered with Adopt-a-Pet. com for the “Homes for Dogs Project” which aims to find homes for 20,000 dogs in 2015. The company will engage its network of 87,000 sales associates to help adoptable dogs find homes in their communities through a variety of tactics, SUBMITTED PHOTO Pet Connection including hosting adoption days by partnering with local shelters in the Adopt- Coldwell Banker Real Estate has joined with Adopt-a-Pet.com to find homes for 20,000 dogs in 2015. a-Pet.com network.

PET CONNECTION • SPRING 2015

Dogs play a special role in a home, bringing laughter, love and warmth. But dog ownership comes with great responsibility and there are certain things to consider before beginning the adoption process.

Adopt-A-pet

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

SERENITY

DSH Orange White 3-1/2 years Special needs diet

Dutch Female - Adult

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Sponsored by:

legacy funeral 262-642-5057

Sponsored by:

196278

Pit Bull/Terrier mix - 2 years In a foster home waiting for a forever family

DMH Tiger 8 months old

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Sponsored by:

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Sponsored by:

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SQUIGGY

RUSSELL

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

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DSH Black White 2 years - FIV+

Daschund/Beagle 1 year, 5 months

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New Zealand - male 9 months

DSH Grey - 4 months

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

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DSH Tiger 2 years - FIV+ 196285

DLH Black 5 years old - FIV+

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TIGER

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PET CONNECTION • SPRING 2015

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HENRY

FLUFFY

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SHELTER DOGS in need of GOOD HOMES

Pit Bull Terrier

A well-bred Pit Bull can be a dependable, loyal and good-natured companion. These dogs are athletic and must have moderate daily exercise to stay healthy and prevent boredom. Pit Bulls can be stubborn and dominant, meaning they will need confident owners who can establish and enforce expected behaviors. While they can be friendly with people, Pit Bulls may be assertive around other dogs, particularly when they feel their dominance is being challenged. In addition, these dogs have a high prey instinct and may chase cats or other small animals. Pit Bulls can usually live comfortably if

SUBMITTED PHOTO Pet Connection

The Humane Society of the United States estimates that animal shelters house 6 and 8 million dogs and cats every year, and about half of those animals are ultimately euthanized.

they have adequate mental stimulation and are socialized at an early age.

Beagles

Beagles are the perfect size for many families, and they also make friendly and peaceful dogs. Then why do they end up in shelters so readily? Beagles were developed as hunting dogs and may have these traits programmed into their heads to chase and seek out prey. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, Beagles need a lot of exercise, and some people simply do not have the time or inclination to exercise their dogs. Beagles can bay or howl when they become bored, and they may dig holes or try to escape close quarters. For these reasons, Beagles may end up turned over to shelters. But firm training and positive outlets for energy can help make Beagles welcome companions.

German Shepherd

Well-bred German Shepherds are often self-confident and aloof but not hostile. But many German Shepherds, thanks in part to overbreeding, exhibit unpredictable behavior. German Shepherds are a working breed and were developed to be smart and forward thinking. Shepherds need mental stimulation to remain happy and could become destructive if not given a good intellectual outlet, such as agility classes or herding opportunities. German Shepherds shed a lot of hair, making them undesirable to some people. When not properly socialized, shepherds may be aggressive toward other dogs, which can be problematic. However, a Shepherd that has been bred well, trained and socialized can make a loyal and friendly pet. (METRO CREATIVE)

PET CONNECTION â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING 2015

Thousands of dogs end up in shelters every year. Some get reunited with family members, but the vast majority are strays or surrendered by their owners. The Humane Society of the United States estimates that animal shelters care for between 6 and 8 million dogs and cats every year, and about half of those animals are ultimately euthanized. Substantial progress has been made to reduce the number of shelter animals that are euthanized, but more work is necessary to save animals from this unfortunate fate. To help reduce the number of homeless animals, many different shelters work to place animals in homes and educate men, women and children about pet overpopulation. Certain breeds tend to be more populous than others in shelters. It is possible to find purebred dogs in shelters, and some shelters even specialize at placing particular breeds. However, many shelter dogs are mixed-breeds, often referred to as mutts. According to polling from various shelters across the country, pit bulls, Labradors, German Shepherds, Beagles, and their mixes tend to be the most common types of dogs found in shelters. Dogs perceived to be too hyper or aggressive frequently arrive at shelters when people find they cannot manage the animals. But with some training and discipline, many dogs can become beloved companions. The following is a look at the general temperament of common shelter dogs and the type of care and handling such dogs may require.

Adopt-A-pet

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

DAFFODIL

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Sponsored by:

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DSH Tiger 2 years, 11 months

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BRODIE

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MADONNA

DMH Tiger - 6-1/2 years Needs to be the only cat in the home

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Sponsored by:

ARIA

DSH black - female 6-1/2 months

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000 Sponsored by:

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FLURRY

New Zealand - male - 9 months

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000 Sponsored by:

PET CONNECTION • SPRING 2015

Sponsored by:

Pit Bull-Terrier mix 3 years, 9 months

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New Zealand Female - Adult

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Pit Bull/Terrier mix - 3-1/2 years

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000 Sponsored by:

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WAYLON Rottweiler 3 years old

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SKITTLES

LAWSON

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

DSH Tort 1 year, 8 months

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DSH White Black 5 years

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Fascinating felines: The surprising truths about 5 common cat myths

• SEE FASCINATING

FELINES ON PAGE 15

SUBMITTED PHOTO Pet Connection

A recent survey found that almost half of the women questioned and about 30 percent of the men judge their date based on their pet’s reaction.

MAKING A CONNECTION between your pet and your date

When you’ve made a “love connection” and feel it’s time to introduce your twolegged companion to your four-legged friend, here are a few tips from the nation’s leader in pet adoptions, PetSmart Charities, and the world’s largest dating website, Match. They have teamed up to reveal the important role that pets play in our dating lives.

follow this approach, too. It lets the “you’re home!” energy fade before anyone interacts with your pet, so she’s calmer. That’s especially important when you’re with a guest.

Don’t force it It’s natural to be a little nervous. You and your date already like each other, so it’s important to you that your pet feels the same way. Start with a photo session A recent PetSmart Charities and Match Before you set up the in-person meeting, survey found that women are more likely share or exchange photographs of your pets. to judge their date based on their pet’s It’s an easy way to give the new person in reaction – almost half of women do it, and your life an idea about the role your pet 30 percent of men do, too. plays in your world. Even though you’re eager, don’t push it. You know how intuitive your pet is, Keep the energy positive and mellow right? She’ll pick up on any awkward, When you walk in the door, keep moving uncomfortable energy right away, which – put your stuff down, hang your coat, get will make her edgy and turn her off to the all the way in the house and free up your whole situation. hands, then greet your pet. If your date is with you, he or she should • SEE LOVE CONNECTION ON PAGE 15

PET CONNECTION • SPRING 2015

Americans’ love affair with pets continues to grow with about 69 million households owning a pet, according to American Veterinary Medical Association. In fact, pet ownership has tripled since the 1970s, and today there are 74.1 million owned cats alone. Felines are great companion animals, but there is still a surprising amount of widely accepted misinformation about cats – and it’s causing a multitude of issues. “Cats are fantastic pets for both young and old, but misconceptions can cause a host of problems for cats, from their individual health to overpopulation,” says Esther Mechler, president of Marian’s Dream: Philanthropy for Animal Advocates. “Understanding the facts isn’t just interesting, as it can literally help you save lives.” Check out these top five cat myths and the surprising truths behind each: Myth: There are plenty of shelters and foster homes to help pets in need until they find their forever home. Fact: About 7.6 million companion animals enter animal shelters nationwide every year, including 3.4 million cats, according to ASPCA.org. “More than 70 percent of cats in shelters do not find homes,” says Mechler. “Fostering is limited and unfortunately many shelters refuse to

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

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y Sponsored b

Labrador/Pitbull mix Approximately 5 years old red by Sponso

OUR TURN PET CENTER 847-838-9390

Out Turn Pet Center 847-838-9390

LUCY

Male, adult y b red AT YOUR Sponso

Beagle mix, young female d by onsore

JAKE

PINKY

MONTANA

More info call - Pets In Need 815-382-1160

GARFIELD

Shepard mix, female, young red by Sponso

Adult male y Sponsored b

GRAYSLAKE FEED SALES 847-223-4855

CLAWS-N-PAWS 815-363-7387

More info call - Pets In Need 815-382-1160

FOX LAKE ANIMAL HOSPITAL 847-587-0505

196385

Sp 196378

More info call - Pets In Need 815-382-1160

American Staffordshire Terrier Adult, female d by onsore

196429

PET CONNECTION • SPRING 2015

Male, young y b d e r Sponso

D&S ROOFING 847-587-3472 or 262-857-3312

196380

More info call - Pets In Need 815-382-1160

196381

More info call - Pets In Need 815-382-1160

BARK ‘N CALL 847-731-7280

196384

REESE’S BARKERY & PAWTIQUE 815-363-7297

196497

196383

ROUND LAKE ANIMAL HOSPITAL 847-546-6700

196382

196387

TOMMY

More info call - Pets In Need 815-382-1160

Adult male

LARCH TREE NATURAL WELLNESS CENTER LLC 815-385-9435 or 815-861-9871

PET BATH & BEYOND 847-546-PETS

More info call - Pets In Need 815-382-1160

196377

ADOPT-A-PET

CHASE

Looking for a new forever home! y b d e r Sponso

196367≠

admit cats if no empty cages are available. This begs the question of where these unwanted cats can go. Millions of cats are euthanized annually or abandoned into the wild – where they often face injury, sickness and death.” Myth: Cats don’t need to be spayed or neutered until they are 6 months old. Fact: Most shelter cats are fixed at two months of age prior to adoption, but many households’ cats are not fixed until much later, which dramatically increases the odds of unexpected litters. By six months, most cats have gone through at least one heat cycle and many have already produced a litter. “‘Fix felines by five’ is our recommendation,” Mechler says. “This reduces the chance of unwanted litters and benefits the cat’s health and the community as a whole. Don’t delay longer than five months!” Learn more at www.mariansdream.org. Myth: Cats won’t mate with their siblings or parents. Fact: Cats do not limit which cats they mate with – this includes littermates and parents. This is another valid reason to proactively spay and neuter cats by five months of age. “A surprising number of people do not realize that siblings can and will reproduce,” says Mechler. “But it happens all the time, so expect it.” Myth: Limiting unwanted litters is the only reason for spaying. Fact: “Cats spayed before their first heat cycle have a 91 percent lower risk for developing mammary cancer,” says Mechler. “This is a wonderful benefit, because mammary gland cancer kills an estimated 75,000 cats every year. In fact, cats have a greater risk – by 1,500 times – of dying from mammary gland cancer than from contracting rabies.” Additional benefits of spaying and neutering include many positive behavioral changes, such as: • Reduced roaming behaviors • Reduced aggression • Reduced marking • Reduced howling and other heatrelated behaviors Myth: Cats mate most often in the summer. Fact: Cats may seem to mate all year long, but peak mating times correlate with the seasons (equinox). When the days start to get longer in January and February,

FACINATING FELINES FROM PAGE 13

SUBMITTED PHOTO Pet Connection

Cats make wonderful pets for young and old alike. One of the best things an owner can do for their cat is have them spayed or neutered while they are young.

additional sunlight signals a female cat’s pituitary gland to start ovulation and she will go into heat. “This is why spring is considered kitten season,” says Mechler. “After about 62 days of gestation, litters are born and there is always a flood of kittens going into shelters each spring. But cats can get pregnant at almost any time late winter or throughout the summer in most regions, even just few weeks after giving birth to a litter.” In conclusion, pet owners are often unaware of how early cats can go into heat – to prevent mammary cancer, •

However, if you take a deep breath and stay relaxed, chances are your pet will also stay relaxed. Behave as naturally as possible, speaking in your normal voice. Stay involved in the introduction for the first few minutes. Try sitting on the floor together so

unwanted litters and ‘bad behaviors’ like howling, spraying and roaming it is best to have them fixed by five months of age, as recommended by Dr. Richard Speck in “The Case for Neutering at Five Months of Age” published in Today’s Veterinary Practice. Marian’s Dream continues to work hard to inform people and their vets about the importance of earlier spaying and neutering through the “Fix by Five” campaign. Learn more and find a qualified vet near you at unitedspayalliance.org/programlocator-map. (BPT)

LOVE CONNECTION FROM PAGE 13

all three of you are participating in the meeting. Following these tips will help you navigate the first meeting. When you date someone, you’re looking for signals. Similarly, you should watch for cues from the pet to tell you what your next move

should be. In the meantime, just hang out, relax and give your pet some time to adapt to the change. For more information about PetSmart Charities and its adoption programs, visit the website at www.petsmartcharities.org. (NAPS)

PET CONNECTION • SPRING 2015

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