January 2009 - Spot Magazine by Spot Magazine

That Make ¢

One Tiny Dog

- Good Food cheaper in the long run - Grooming — it’s worth it - Health & Wellness It’s all about prevention

Making a BIG impression Whose cat is it, anyway? What we learned from the fight over Merlin

EVERYTHING PET IN THE NORTHWEST! NORTHWEST ! • JANUARY 2009

Extraordinary things are happening at Multnomah County Animal Services!!

In 2003 we opened our own on-site spay/neuter clinic for adopted animals and have since performed over 9000 surgeries! In 2006 we were the ﬁrst shelter in the community to be accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association Two years ago we implemented Open Paw (openpaw.org), an in-shelter training program for our dogs and cats. Volunteers do most of the training! Volunteers also maintain active Foster and Adoption Outreach Programs AND produce a monthly Cable TV Show!

Hi I’m Rita! I’m adoptable! #492507

We rescue injured, sick, and stray animals 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to the tune of over 10,000 animals every year! We are Portland‛s public animal shelter and we are working hard for our community‛s animals!

an animal adoption center and non-profit pet supply store

100% of profits generated by the sale of our healthy pet products are dedicated to animal rescue, adoption and low-income spay and neuter services.

A $40 purchase allows us to vaccinate a homeless cat or dog A $50 purchase allows us to spay or neuter a homeless cat A $90 purchase allows us to spay or neuter a homeless dog

510 NE MLK Blvd. Portland, OR 97232 | (503) 542-3432 | www.pixieproject.org

20 Reader Spotlight Meet Harley, Mookitty and Maddie

Learning on the Spot TThe quick and easy on teaching a new trick. This month: Beep! Beep! Beep! Put ‘em in reverse

14 Spot checks in with top experts pros for their best tricks on keeping costs on a tight leash.

8 One Tiny Dog making a BIG impression Spenser the Yorkie and his mom Melanie Brooks love to travel. And they’re on a mission to end hunger — especially in children. They tied it all together recently, kicking off their ﬁrst book tour in a meet-up with 50 schoolchildren at the Oregon Food Bank. The kids packed food boxes, enjoyed lunch and storytime, and then got to meet this cool little dog on a very big mission.

21 Whose cat is it, anyway?

Sweet foundlings who ﬁnd their way to Spot’s door at presstime.

What we learned from the ﬁght over Merlin Two nearby households. One beautiful cat who loved visiting his neighbors. One who wanted him to stay for good. Accusations of neglect. All in all, a “bizarre saga.”

Stitch Tested, Kyla approved Jen Biglan cracks the book Control Unleashed

22 Fetch - Sellwood Dog wash gets new home, name - Club K-9 kicks off Singles Mixers & Sunday Socials - Working to break the chains - Young helping hands reach paws in need - AKC Health Foundation calls for Westie samples - Ruff Wear introduces new Track Jacket - January Yappy Hour is all about love - Still waiting for that big-screen from Santa? - Help keep kitties’ tummies ﬁlled - Paula Abdul signs on to promote PAWS - New ﬁlm launches complete with companion game

16 Now’s the time for a Cheap Fix Cat Adoption Team in Sherwood kicks off its annual spay/neuter campaign. Now’s the time to RSVP for procedures ($20-$10) in February and March — don’t wait, spaces ﬁll fast!

Rescue me!

28 SPOT MAGAZINE

| JANUARY 2009

Jennifer McCammon Publisher w/ Broadway, Scout & Peach Publisher@SpotMagazine.net

VOL. 4 • NO. 6 January 2009

Contributing Writers Joan Callander Jennifer DuMond-Biglan Jake Faris Vonnie Harris Toni Jacobsen Nat Weinham

Contributing Photographer Jeff Shannon

Lancea LaPorte Art Director w/ Molly Spot@LaPorte-Design.com

Advertising Janet Wheeland Account Executive w/ Elvis Janet@SpotMagazine.net

503.887.5921

Krista Snook

Our Mission Companion and working animals are important, beloved members of the family. Spot Magazine is the one-stop resource for information, ideas, and events of interest to these animals and their people. Our Policies Spot Magazine welcomes opinions and letters to the editor. To be considered for publication, letters should be signed and include the writer’s full name, address, and daytime telephone (for internal use only). Spot reserves the right to edit letters for length and clarity. Mail to: Spot Magazine PO Box 16667 Portland OR 97292; Fax to: 503.261.8945; email to: publisher@spotmagazine.net. Opinions and ideas expressed by writers and/or advertisers herein are not necessarily endorsed by, or necessarily reflect, the opinions of Spot Magazine or Living Out Loud, Inc.

Account Executive w/ Ru Krista@SpotMagazine.net

541.743.5929

Subscription Rates: 1 year $15; 2 years $25

Spot Magazine

Administration Marnie McCammon Eugene/Springfield Office w/ grandpuppy Roxy Photo by Jeff Shannon

Name: Molly Breed: Goldendoodle Age: 2 Territory: St Johns People: Lancea LaPorte & Jeff Shannon Turn Ons: fetching tennis balls, rawhide treats, hiking, swimming and chasing snowballs Turn Offs: people who ignore her even when she is trying sooooooo hard to be cute.

Marnie@SpotMagazine.net 541.741.1242

Vonnie Harris Events / Distribution / Writer w/ Jake Vonnie@SpotMagazine.net

360.903.4174

Jake Faris Writer w/ Buddy

Cover photo by Jeff Shannon

4 SPOT MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2009

PO Box 16667 Portland, OR 97292 Voice 503.261.1162 Fax 503.261.8945 Published monthly. Distributed from Vancouver to Eugene/Springfield & Sandy to Forest Grove. All rights reserved. Reproduction (whole or part) without permission prohibited.

What a view! with Broadway

elcome to the new year. This brand new day is full of promise, and I can’t wait to see the good things in store for us! The view from here is truly breathtaking. These are days of mighty change. The shift in our nation’s leadership has brought forth a man who, through long months of campaigning, consistently presented integrity and character. When the votes were counted and he claimed his new title, his message was inspiring: this is wonderful, but this is no time to party; let’s get to work. Let’s. What better answer to the morass wrought by unbridled greed

To the editor: It is always nice to read your magazine that I follow monthly. The November one has been very useful to learn how to take care of your senior furry loved ones. Unfortunately it came late to me and my beloved furry son passed away on November 18th. I still can hardly believe it. I am blaming myself because if I had known some of the things you mentioned in your magazine before, I think I could have avoided what happened. When I read about the Service of Remembrance on December 4th I never imagined that I would be

In the spirit of pulling together, Spot has begun extending special discounts to our advertisers — the wonderful individuals and companies who make Spot possible. If not for the support from these folks you wouldn’t be holding Spot in your hands right now. So please be sure to let them know that you found them or saw their ad in Spot. So we offered special discounts, and in turn, many of our fine advertisers are extending them to you. Nice illustration of the everyday things we can do to buoy one another in challenging times, huh. Sometimes things >Click!< Please join me in gratitude for the comfort and abundance we enjoy in this country. Us pet people are attuned to the daily gifts presented by our beloved animals — humor, comfort, companionship, the continuing challenge to learn and grow — from the practical, like carpet cleaning, to higher matters like living consciously and being a

attending it. Due to the loss of my dearest Chak, I will join the Pet Loss support group this week, and I am so grateful to you because without Spot I would have to cope my grief by myself and it is really hard. Many thanks again. Leticia Vindiola, Via email P.S. I am missing Ruckus Rulz on December issue, I am a fan of Ruckus, please beg him to write again (I don’t forget he is a bulldog)!!!

Editor’s Note: Our beloved Ruckus, and his mama, Mickie Aerne-Bowe, have moved on in avid pursuit of new adventures. Good Luck Ruckus and Mickie!

blessing to others. Yes we’ve got food in the cupboards and heat in the house. And we’ve got the stuff to make a difference. Let’s be mindful of the value of things. Sometimes just a smile can turn someone’s day around. It’s times like these that underscore such profound yet simple truths. Whatever our bank balances, most people I know are truly rich. The victory is already ours. Don’t falter now. Let’s stick together and get busy. Let’s. Yours in everything pet,

Ruckus • Photo by Alicia Dickerson, Four Legged Photo

Jennifer McCammon

than to pull up our bootstraps and get this ship turned around. “Yes we can.” We live in such great comfort in this country, and like the oldest book in the land says, To whom much is given much will be required. I love this statement’s power of perspective. Having a tough day? Ask yourself: is there love in your life, food in the cupboards, heat in the house? If the answer is yes (and for most of us it is), we have a great deal to work with. No doubt these times are a little scary and a whole lot challenging. But as with everything, this too shall pass. And count on it: most of us will have times in our lives when we’re winning the game and others when we’re benched and hurting, waiting it out on the sidelines. Wherever you are, let the promise of the future and the comfort of knowing you’re not alone carry you. We’re in this together.

SPOT MAGAZINE

| JANUARY 2009

Comet Can’t have enough of the holiday spirit in your life? Like his reindeer namesake, Comet will bring merriness and joy to you and your family! This little guy has a playful, friendly personality, loves to be with people, loves to chase laser pointers, loves to cuddle, and already knows how to use the litterbox. Come meet sweet Comet at CAT’s Sherwood shelter, 14175 SW Galbreath Dr. Call 503.925.8903 or visit catadoptionteam.org for details.

Albert Sweet Dexter Oh garsh, what’s a Pitbull? I’m just a big silly puppy-dog looking for someone to dedicate their time to give me the training that all young dogs need. I really, really, really like people! I like them so much, I would sit in your lap if you’d let me! The shelter will require that we attend training classes together as part of my adoption. I’ve spent some time in a foster home where I learned my crate training, got along with the resident dogs, and ignored the cat I met. Please ask to meet me today! I am around 9 mos. old, neutered, and weigh 52 lbs. If you are looking for a youngster who adores being touched, I’m your guy! My animal number is 490161. Please call Ann to make a date 503.988.6254.

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Looking for your one true cat love? Look no further, Albert is a sweet but shy-at-first fellow with lovely sea-green eyes who is looking for a home all to himself. He loves to be held, he loves to be petted, he’ll happily take all the attention and affection you can give — and return it triple fold! Meet Albert at CAT’s Sherwood shelter (14175 SW Galbreath Dr.). Details 503.925.8903 or catadoptionteam.org.

Stitch Tested, Kyla Approved with help from dog mom Jen

Owner’s New Year’s Resolution:

“Train Dog” Dog’s New Year’s Resolution:

“Train Owner”

Book Review: Control Unleashed by Leslie McDevitt

et started on the right paw this year and pick up a copy of Control Unleashed by Leslie McDevitt. This is a must read for owners with distracted, reactive, aggressive, anxious, “stubborn,” or just plain dogs. In Control Unleashed Leslie provides sound training ideas that will help you gain control over your unruly pooch while helping you deepen your relationship at the same time. She provides great training exercises and examples based on positive, scientificallyproven techniques.

GREAT FOR: • Anyone who owns a dog! • Dogs who are distracted around other dogs • Dogs who have a hard time controlling their impulses when excited • Reactive or aggressive dogs • Anxious, fearful, or stressed dogs • Anyone who wants to take their dog’s training to a new level

SPOT MAGAZINE

| JANUARY 2009

Oregon Food Bank

A tiny dog and his mom, together with “little” people, endeavor to

Nat Weinham • Spot Magazine

is the core of a statewide network of more than 915 hunger-relief agencies serving Oregon and Clark County, Washington. Its stated goal is to eliminate the root causes of hunger through advocacy and education. In pursuing that goal, OFB packs emergency food boxes and distributes them to regional food banks which then distribute to community food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and other benevolent programs.

An estimated average of 200,000 people PER MONTH were nourished by these programs in 2007. OFB estimates 36 percent were children.

8 SPOT MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2009

he boys and girls from Charles F. Tigard Elementary School’s first- and fourth-grade classes have proven themselves to be the very best kind of Oregonians. They showed their stuff recently during Spenser the mini Yorkshire Terrier’s book launch at The Oregon Food Bank (OFB) in NE Portland. This was discipline, hard work and determination at its best. Wanting to raise awareness of the struggles many families face, Tigard teachers Ms. Esterline and Ms. Merlino facilitate a program called World Changers, which includes a canned food drive. This year students collected over 1500 cans, 50 percent more than last year. As a reward for their hard work, they were invited to the OFB for a day of learning and hands-on experience, plus lunch and a very special storytime. I was treated to a quiet moment with the special storytime guests, Spenser and “Spenser’s Mom,” Melanie Brooks, author of Spenser’s new book, Spenser Goes to Portland. Brooks says the idea for the book came after a recent visit to Portland. “It’s so beautiful here,” she says, cradling Spenser in the crook of her arm. “When I wrote back to all the kids in my family describing how much fun we had here, they said, ‘You should write a book!’” The idea was appealing, and since Spenser and his mom loved to travel — “He practically lives on

Melanie Brooks with Spencer

an airplane,” says Brooks about Spenser — they decided they would not only write a book about their adventures in Portland, but in every city they visited. While traveling, Spenser and his mom like to learn about the history, geography and culture of their destinations. Another very important thing they like is helping children. Brooks is teaching Spenser how to take good care of our world through fun educational activities and two engaging educational websites: spensernation.com and operationhungrychild.com. The time with Spenser and Brooks flew by; suddenly the students were arriving from the warehouse, having finished their work packing food boxes. Several of the fourth-graders hung their arms saying the food they’d packed the last hour was heavy! But their tone was not plaintive; these kids clearly felt good about the work they’d done. And had it not been for the lure of the adorable Spenser, they surely would have happily discussed the mechanisms of food distribution.

The little guy is a distraction — he is knockout adorable. About the size of a hoagie roll, he remained relaxed and happy even in the company of some 50 elementary schoolchildren. The students made quick work of lunch and cleanup, working impressively as fine-tuned a team. Then it was time for Spenser’s Mom to read his book. Everyone listened attentively, following along with an accompanying slideshow on the big screen. The crowd loved it. Spenser Goes to Portland is the perfect mix of fun Oregon facts, positive messages about eradicating hunger and keeping the planet clean, and wonderful illustrations recognizable to area residents. And yes, the book of Spenser’s adventures in Portland includes a visit to the OFB. Storytime ended with students cuing up to meet and thank Spenser. Brooks announced that their next book would be on St. Louis, Missouri. They’ll be back in Portland soon, though, to participate in OFB’s Project Second Wind. Watching the students depart, I wanted to thank each of them for their hard work, their polite behavior and their curious minds. Whether it’s conducting a food drive, packing food boxes for people they don’t know, or working together as a team — fourth-graders helping first-graders — these kids certainly have the stuff of World Changers. SPOT MAGAZINE

| JANUARY 2009

STRETCHING YOUR

DOLLARS

while doing your best for their health & happiness Nat Weinham • Spot Magazine

inger is a chocolate Lab mix with a Bulldog’s underbite and a snowy muzzle. She’s old, good natured, and well loved by her owner, Erika Tarjan-Schutz. That bond of love is evident in the quality of care Tarjan-Schutz provides. “We got her expecting she had some skin issues,” says Tarjan-Schutz. “She had goopy eyes and allergies, so we put her on special food to clear up her rash and eye stuff. No elimination diet, just straight to the special food. We were like, ‘Let’s do it!’” But, Tarjan-Schutz says, “That was just the beginning.” Like many people, while Tarjan-Schutz is gung-ho about caring for her pets, when Ginger began limping and having difficulty walking, she couldn’t help but cringe at what they might be in for. She and her husband waited and watched for awhile before taking Ginger to their veterinarian. “They took x-rays,” she says, and “cha-ching!” The diagnosis cost several hundred dollars and revealed that Ginger had damaged her ACL, one of the main ligaments that runs through the knee.

24/7 bulldog support.

“If you’re strapped you can feed your dogs less kibble by making a pot of brown rice, steamed broccoli and carrots, and adding it to their meals.” — Amy Sacks The Pixie Project

Providing care when your veterinarian can’t be there.

Unfortunately your primary care veterinarian cannot always be there when you need her. That’s why NWVS opened an east-side, 24/7, critical care and emergency service. NWVS has been partnering with local primary care veterinarians since 1991. So, should your pet ever have an emergency health issue, call Northwest Veterinary Specialists.

24/7 Emergency Service & Critical Care Internal Medicine • Oncology Ophthalmology Neurology • Surgery

“woof” 16756 SE 82nd Drive • Clackamas, OR 97015 •

503-656-3999

www.northwestvetspecialists.com

10 SPOT MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2009

“It was going to cost like three thousand dollars to fix, and we had to stop and think about it,” says Tarjan-Schutz. “With two children and a mortgage and cars, we finally decided not to get the surgery. Some people might have done it, but we just couldn’t do it.” It was a tough spot to be in, and one many are experiencing these days. The good news is, today Ginger’s doing fine. After a year of rest and glucosamine she’s now able to enjoy moderate hikes. Pet parents well know that surprise costs can lurk around every corner. Pets have needs — from feeding to grooming and the inevitable emergencies, big and little, in between. With this in mind, Spot set out to bend the ear of some of the best in the biz for their best-kept secrets and tricks for stretching your pet-dollars. According to Amy Sacks of The Pixie Project, a Portland-based adoption shelter and healthy food store, money and health often compete on the question of what to feed our pets. Reducing “A 40 lb. bag of mid-grade kibble and holistic kibble will cost 35 to 40 bucks,” says Sacks. supplementing “That’ll last a mid-sized dog it with healthy about a month. But if you’re strapped you can feed foods low in your dogs less kibble by making a pot of brown rice, carbohydrates steamed broccoli and car- not only rots, and adding it to their meals. It adds fiber, which stretches food makes them feel full without dollars, it’s a a lot of calories. Kibble is dense with calories. And great diet.

It was going to cost like three thousand dollars to fix, and we had to stop and think about it. With two children and a mortgage and cars, we finally decided not to get the surgery. Some people might have done it, but we just couldn’t do it.

dogs don’t care if the veggies were frozen or a dollar a bag.” A.J. Limbrick agrees. Owner of AJ’s K-9 Kamp in Portland, she’s a longtime student and advocate of good, quality pet food. “I feed organic food but also supplement with fresh food,” she says. “I give them organic carrots and oatmeal in their breakfast and cut back on kibble. Kibble is the enemy. My gets a quarter-cup of also gets carrots and morning, plus MSM.” r to glucosamine and “You can give them uits and vegetables. ake a crockpot of d beans and ladle it to their dinner every night.” Reducing kibble and supplementing it with healthy foods low in carbohydrates not only stretches food dollars, it’s a great diet. Kibble

You love them like family. So feed them like family.TM

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continued next page SPOT MAGAZINE

| JANUARY 2009

Stretching Your $$

continued from previous page

is a good source of protein, so it shouldn’t be eliminated entirely, but adding chicken or beef to a stew of rice, beans and veggies can meet their protein needs nicely. Too many carbohydrates can contribute to obesity and other pet health problems. Janelle Walker, DVM, of Best Friends Veterinary Clinic in Portland, says, “Animals that are overweight

“You can’t throw money at the vet and buy your dog’s life back.

It doesn’t work that way.” — AJ Limbrick, AJ’s K-9 Kamp have a 20 percent incidence of cancer. It’s harder on their joints. They’re more prone to diabetes. The rate of obesity in cats these days is about one in 200, pretty similar to humans. The evolution of cat food has made it a high-carbohydrate food instead of a little mouse the cat used to have to run around and catch — that mouse being mostly protein, little fat, and no carbohydrate.” Another area where funds and pet health intersects is day-to-day dental maintenance. This simple preventative activity can save a lot of money over time. Dr. Walker says, “Regular dental care is very important. You can do home dental care. That’s going to mean less anesthesia for that dog or cat. And it’s always better to do anesthesia on a healthy animal than on an animal that’s not.”

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“There’s a lot of flavored toothpastes that dogs and cats really like,” says Walker. “There’s beef and malt and poultry. It doesn’t have to be an unpleasant experience. You can get your animals used to this. You don’t want them to get periodontal disease.”

In addition to regular dental care, getting them “fixed” is vital to the health and wellness of our pets. “People need to spay and neuter their pets,” says Walker. “It can be done anytime, any age. It’s safer and easier if done prior to six months. If you spay a female before her first seed cycle her rela-

Regular dental care can reduce healthcare costs throughout your pet’s life. Tooth decay and gum disease can lead to serious risks to a pet’s overall health, including his/her bones, organs and respiratory system. Regular dental care can reduce healthcare costs throughout your pet’s life. Tooth decay and gum disease can lead to serious risks to a pet’s overall health, including his/her bones, organs and respiratory system. “You can’t throw money at the vet and buy your dog’s life back,” Limbrick says. “It doesn’t work that way.” Dr. Walker adds, “It’s very similar to your car. If you don’t change the oil, your engine’s going to blow up on you.”

tive risk of mammary cancer later in life is less than one percent. If you wait until they go through heat cycles that relative risk goes up to 25 percent. With males, testicular cancer is very common in dogs. If they don’t have them, they can’t get cancer in them. Lymphoma, also common in animals, is a very treatable cancer if caught early through regular vet visits.” Remember Ginger, the chocolate Lab who didn’t get the ACL surgery? Pet mom Tarjan-Schutz reflected on

Here are just a few organizations offering assistance with emergency pet medical costs American Animal Hospital Association Helping Pets Fund • www.aahahelpingpets.org AAHA-certified clinics apply for grants from clinics in Oregon.

y of opting against surgery. You go through all sorts of emotions. We felt guilty, like, ‘Oh my god we’re not helping our dog.’” However, over the last few years, Ginger has had goopy eyes, rashes, allergies, arthritis, hipdysplasia, that doggie CL injury, and more. has these recurrent bladder infections because of the way her anatomy was formed. It keeps bacteria in. It would

Angels4Animals • www.angels4animals.org Provides medical, financial, and moral support for pet owners in financial hardship.

Stretching Your $$

In An Emergency

continued pg 25

The Bearen Foundation • www.bearenfoundation.org Provides financial assistance to Lane County pet owners. Any Lane County vet can apply on behalf of a pet owner. CareCredit • www.carecredit.com Line of credit that works like a credit card. Apply online, and use it to pay for your pet’s veterinary fees at a clinic that accepts the CareCredit plan — over 140 clinics within 75 miles of Portland. DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital Velvet Financial Assistance Program dovelewis.org Financial assistance to qualified low-income clients. HELP-A-PET • www.help-a-pet.org Pet owners can apply online for financial assistance to be paid directly to the veterinary clinic. Proof of financial need required. In Memory Of Magic • www.imom.org IMOM helps fund care for animals with life-threatening emergencies. Pet owners must meet strict requirements, including first applying for CareCredit. IMOM has a great list of fundraising ideas for pet owners.

Gift Cards ! Available

The sporting goods store for dogs! Agility • Flyball • Skijoring Games • Gifts • Toys 16771 SW 12th Ave. Suite A • Sherwood, Oregon 97140 www.TheActiveCanine.com • 503-610-1900 Restrictions apply, valid 1/1/09 - 1/31/09

The Pet Fund • thepetfund.com Financial assistance for non-emergency medical expenses. Pet owners can apply online after calling to initiate the application. United Animal Nations LifeLine Grant Program • www.uan.org Financial assistance for veterinary expenses to lowincome pet owners and caregivers who have suffered personal tragedy. Apply online.

SPOT MAGAZINE

| JANUARY 2009

Stretching Your $$

$ Tips that Make ¢ Jake Faris • Vonnie Harris Spot Magazine

ard financial times are, well . . . hard. With increasing layoffs and the stock market impersonating a California theme park ride, America is tightening its collective belt. Spot checks in on top pros’ best tricks for keeping costs on a tight leash. Our experts include Chip Sammons of Holistic Pet Center in Clackamas, Symon Lee of Furever Pets on Broadway in NE Portland, Connie Schauermann of Best in Show Pet Grooming in Springfield, and Dale Bishop, owner and operator of Grooming-Dales in Springfield. Of all the top tips, the most common was to NOT skimp on quality food by going cheap. Lee of Furever Pets strongly cautions against low-quality food. “Don’t spend less money for less quality food,” he says. “I always tell people ‘you get what you pay for.’” Sammons, proprietor and self-proclaimed janitor of Holistic Pet Center, heartily agrees. Sammons’ pet food certifications include graduating the Joint Advisory Council Canine Special-

Save

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with this ad valid Jan'09 only

14 SPOT MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2009

ist Program and Colorado State ear problems, and less itching and University’s Basic Nutrition for scratching. For example, there isn’t Pets. He also attended Cornell’s a food or treat in Sammons’ store Canine Nutrition program. Clearly that contain the animal byproducts his expertise in (not to mention BHT/BHA (which can cause allergic commitment to) the importance reactions among other problems), of a high-quality diet runs deep. ethoxyquin (an herbicide that can In fact, you might know his radio cause liver tumors), sugar (can you program, Pet Nutrition and News, say “cavities”), or sodium nitrate. which airs Saturdays 10-11am on Long-term savings is generally a KKPZ 1330 am. given with quality food. “Good food Sammons has been serving pet is going to cost people the same parents for over 10 years, and he’s amount of money as bad food,” proud to share the pedigree not of says Sammons. Saving on vet his cats or dogs, but of his food. bills isn’t the only way high-quality When it comes to the food in his food can save money. The amount store, Sammons says, “We want the best of the best.” Not only does he hand pick each food based on its ingredients, Sammons Make good food last longer. boasts that for most of “Use your vegetables,” says Rick Woodthe pet food sold in his ford of Dog Stew in Portland. “Be more crestore, he’s been to the ative. Open your mind to what you feed your plant where it’s made. In dog.” He suggests mixing in grated carrots, a too-brief chat and tour string beans, oven-dried pear and red apple of his store I realized that skins, yogurt, scrambled eggs and parsley while he lives in Oregon, (great for fresh breath!). Sammons might as well be from Missouri — the “For store-bought food, you get what “show me” state. you pay for. Spending a few extra dollars for high-quality food will have a cumulative What Sammons sees effect through the years by reducing vet and learns he passes on costs,” he says. to the concerned owners who come through his doors. “A lot of our “Suggested servings, especially on storecustomers come in with bought foods, are twice what’s needed. They problems,” Sammons are in the business of selling more kibble. In says, and many of them adding healthy stuff to your pet’s food, they are digestive in nature. need less kibble.” This explains why much — AJ Limbrick of AJ’s K9 Kamp in Portland of the shop is dedicated to food, including kibble and raw, and supplements. With the conviction of a sea- of filler (non-digestible or nonsoned animal advocate, Sammons nutritional ingredients) in “cheap” explains why good quality food food increases the amount of food — while it might be more expensive required by your Fang or Fluffy to get than other food on the market — is their nutritional needs met. According to Sammons, cheap food means cheaper in the long run. Sammons expertly rattles off the that for every 25 lbs of body weight benefits: fewer vet visits, skin and you put 2-4 cups of food in their bowl.

Good Food

Good Grooming • When it comes to grooming, all dogs are not created equal. Some breeds require more than others. At-home maintenance will save at the groomers — and at the vet, over time. • Brush, brush, brush! If your groomer has to detangle a mess before putting your pup in the tub, the final bill will be bigger. Brush your dog before taking him/her in, or better still, make it a routine. Daily brushing stimulates the hair follicles, keeping coats healthy, shiny and tangle-free. It even helps keep them smelling nice! Sarah Idriss of Happy Tails Dog Wash & Day Spa in Vancouver, Wash. says, “You can also stretch the time between visits to the groomer by brushing daily.” • Daily brushing with an undercoat comb or rake reduces floating dog hair and provides quality bonding time.

It takes only about one cup for every 25 lbs with high-quality food. There’s also savings at the . . . ahem . . . other end, though it’s of an environmental, not necessarily monetary, nature. Quality food is made up of good ingredients the body needs and absorbs. Lesser quality means more byproduct or filler, translating to greater “output.” Simply put, good food equals less waste — and fewer poop bags going to the landfill.

Another area where pet parents can save is dealing with fleas. Sammons authored Flea Control: A Holistic and Humorous Approach, which he describes as a successful flea program in which “people don’t come back for more flea stuff. We actually put ourselves out of [the flea control] business.” The book costs a fraction of a chemical flea treatment and, better still, contains no chemicals or smells whatsoever! Much of the wisdom from the pros was common sense, like Sammons’ recommendation for dental health: “just a raw bone.” And while some tips fell into the “sense” category, they seemed just a hair

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short of being “common.” It’s the good advice that makes you go, “Oh, yeah!” Lee’s Furever Pets boutique has a hip industrial vibe reminiscent of Urban Outfitters. He is a rich source of not-so-common tips for pet parents. “One thing people can do is ask stores for upcoming events,” he says. Also check on upcoming sales or promotions. For example, the weekend of February 7-8, Furever Pets will be celebrating its anniversary by giving customers 20% off for every $100 spent on a non-sale or food item. Lee explains that this is when most of his

Sammons’ recommendation for dental health: “just a raw bone.” continued pg 26

Deb Elliott 541-913-3972

Licensed, Bonded, and Insured In home care by Vet Tech with 35 years of experience providing care to wildlife, exotics, pets raven1pet.com and farm animals in their surroundings. raven1pet@yahoo.com References•PSI Member•Red Cross Cert. Pet First Aid•Exotic Bird Rescue•ASPCA

Walk your dog in style with Walk Around Gear by 2 Big Dogs. $5 off POG & WAG (online only) Use Promo Code: Spot

Free Local Delvery! www.2bigdogs.biz SPOT MAGAZINE

| JANUARY 2009

Book low-cost spay/neuter now Kathy Covey • Spot Magazine

ollowing the footsteps of TV personality Bob Barker, Drew Carey of The Price is Right encourages viewers daily to have their pets spayed or neutered. Why is this so important?

Here’s why. Iris didn’t plan on being a young, single mom; it just happened. She found herself living on the streets, trying to raise her babies as best she could. Only two survived. And Iris was at risk of getting pregnant again! If something didn’t change, she could yet have dozens of offspring before reaching the age of four. Freist and Frou Frou were just weeks old when they were abandoned and placed in foster care. They were just two of the lucky ones given a second chance to thrive and find a loving home. Annually, over 1,300 kittens enter foster care at the Cat Adoption Team alone.

If you’ve been meaning to get around to it but find your budget is stretched, there are resources to help make the procedure affordable.

16 SPOT MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2009

FELINE FIX-A-THON Cat Adoption Team February-March 2009 $20 spay; $10 neuter Call now to RSVP, spaces fill fast! 503.925.8903

Stretching Your $$

Juniper looks like a teenager, yet is a mother of four. All the energy she could have spent growing into a robust, full-sized beauty went into nursing her babies. And these weren’t her first. She went into heat at a young five months and could potentially have three litters of kittens in a year. Young sisters Fawn and Chianti present a unique challenge in a world where people are looking for perfection. Chainti has cerebellar hypoplasia, which compromises her balance. Fawn keeps her sister centered. Their foster mom is hoping to find them a home together. Each of these sweet cats, and hundreds more, will benefit from being spayed or neutered. They will live longer, stop adding to the overpopulation of unwanted kittens, and be healthier companions. Is your cat fixed? If you’ve been meaning to get around to it but find your budget is stretched, there are resources to help make the procedure affordable.

Fertile cats are expensive, not just in dollars but in terms of straining animal support systems and lives lost. Factor in the cost of caring for up to 8 kittens for maybe 4 months (or more!), providing quality food for mom while nursing, unexpected veterinarian visits and the regular vaccinations kittens require, and advertising for loving homes. You could be out more than you bring in from the folks buying those adorable babies. Over 22,000 cats were euthanized in shelters across Oregon last year — 13,000 in Greater Portland alone. Many came from unplanned litters whose appeal waned as they grew older. Ultimately, their lives were at risk. Call now for your Feline Fix-a-Thon appointment this February or March. Families or individual cat owners can have a female cat or kitten spayed for $20, and male cat or kitten neutered for $10, as part of Cat Adoption Team’s annual campaign. Spaces fill fast, so call today: 503.925.8903. The Fix-a-Thon is open to Metro-area cat owners. Eligibility requires only financial need and/or being on public assistance. All surgeries are performed by veterinarians at CAT’s full-service feline hospital at CAT’s shelter at 14175 SW Galbreath Dr. in Sherwood. Patients must be at least 10 weeks old, 2½ lbs. and healthy. For feral cats, please contact the Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon for assistance. In addition to the clinic in Sherwood, five metro-area veterinarians are participating in the Oregon Spay/Neuter Fund low-cost coupon program. Visit www.oregonspayneuter.org to print out a coupon. Coupons for dogs and puppies are also available, and the savings are significant. Kathy Covey is PR Manager for the Cat Adoption Team and writer for the Cat’s Meow Blog on Oregonlive.com. She’s also worked for the Humane Society of the United States and the Oregon Humane Society. Kathy and her hubby live with two ‘adopted from a shelter’ cats, Mack and Clio.

It’s a beautiful thing. Find out what it feels like for the two of you to be totally pampered. Portland’s oldest pet hospital has been completely remodeled from top to bottom just to make you and your pet feel at home. When you come in we’ll buy you a cup of Starbucks® coffee and freshly baked chocolate chip cookies and give you a tour of Portland’s newest old pet hospital.

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R O S E C I T Y V E T E R I N A RY H O S P I TA L SPOT MAGAZINE

| JANUARY 2009

Get Out!

Lancea LaPorte • Spot Magazine

kijoring combines cross country skiing and dog mushing. Originating in Scandinavia and literally meaning “ski-driving” in Norwegian, skijoring allows a dog and owner to enjoy the outdoors and exercise together. The concept is simple and assuming you already have ski gear, the initial investment in the sport is minimal. And dogs love it! Traditionally, mushing dogs have been Siberian Huskys, Malamutes and Alaskan Huskys, but almost any breed can be a skijoring partner. Most experts agree that mushing dogs should be minimum 50 lbs.

Essential EQUIPMENT 1. X-Back mushing harness for your dog 2. Waist strap or climbing harness for you 3. 8-12 foot towline between you and your dog

Why the special harness? My dog seems to pull on his collar just ﬁne. A special harness, called an X-Back Harness, is required. The harness stays in place, does not restrict the dog’s movement, and distributes the weight evenly. A walking harness is not appropriate and could cause injury to your dog.

18 SPOT MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2009

Pictured: Kirsten Nielsen, Ph.D. with Willow (Malamute) & Kobi (Siberian Husky)

Get Out!

LEARN MORE • Online: http://www.skijor.org/Skijoring101.pdf Site offers a free downloadable 28 page PDF skijoring tutorial • MUSH! Dogs in Harness Class Offered by SPOT’s “TOP DOG” trainer Kirsten Neilsen. Includes an overview of skijoring equiment, mushing commands, and how to train your dog to pull. Contact Kirsten: www.kirstenn.com or 503.307.3168

Not a fan of cold weather? Your dog can be trained to pull you on roller skates, a skateboard, a bike, or even a scooter.

SKIJORING SAFETY TIPS • Learn to ski proficiently before skijoring. You should be able to snowplow and stop and feel comfortable climbing up and coasting down hills. • Never wrap towline around hands, fingers, arms, neck, etc. Dogs can pull with surprising force and can cause you injury. • Be prepared for foul weather and have a thorough knowledge of wilderness safety and survival. Check avalanche conditions for the area. • Always carry extra food, water and clothing for you and your dog. • Inspect your dog’s feet frequently for any sign of injury. Carry dog booties to protect paws from abrasions or frost bite. • Avoid trails with motorized vehicle traffic.

FIND SKIJORING EQUIPMENT Nordkyn Outﬁtters • www.nordkyn.com Active Canine • www.theactivecanine.com SPOT MAGAZINE

| JANUARY 2009

Learning On The Spot Jennifer DuMond Biglan, CPDT • Spot Magazine

Beep, Beep, Beep Goal: To teach your dog to back up on cue. Training Tools:

Teaching your dog to back up on cue is not only a useful training tool; it’s also a fun trick! My friends and clients love it when Stitch backs up to the beeping sound of a truck “beep, beep, beep.” Gather all of your training tools and find a quiet place to start. Step 1: Getting Started. Begin with your dog facing you. Take a step or two toward him until he steps back. As soon as he does, say, “Yes!” (or click) and reward. Reward any and all backing up, starting with as little as a single step backward. Repeat 8-10 times then take a break. Move onto Step 2 when your dog is readily backing up when you step toward him. Step 2: Adding the Cue. Now that your dog is easily backing up when you step toward him you want to start adding a verbal cue. Before you move or step toward your dog, say your cue, “Beep, beep, beep,” then step toward him. As soon as he moves back, say “Yes!” to mark the correct behavior, then reward. Repeat 8-10 times then take a break. Step 3: Fading your movement. Begin by standing completely still with your dog facing you; say your cue, “Beep, beep, beep,” pause for one second, then start leaning toward your dog (do not take a step). As soon as he moves back, say “Yes,” then reward. Repeat 8-10 times. Step 4: Fine Tuning. Once your dog will reliably (8 out of 10 times) back up when you say your cue, train the behavior in other locations in your house — the back yard, a friend’s house, etc.

Training Tips:

Jennifer Biglan is a certified pet dog trainer and owner of Dog & Cat, LLC Training & Behavior Modification services in Eugene, Ore. She is the proud owner of two dogs and three cats and provides private training, behavior consultations and group classes. If you have questions, contact Jennifer at 541.686.6768, or jen@dogandcat.org. Or visit her Web site at www.dogandcat.org.

20 SPOT MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2009

Meet Della’s babies Maddie is a 7-year-old Chow. Her nickname is Little Princess Bear. Mookitty is a year-old Manx, says Della, adding, She’s got a one of a kind personality! Della says her 4-year-old Lhasa Apso, Harley, is very mischievous! Della Holstrom Portland

harley

• If at any point your dog seems confused go back to the step where he was having success and review. • If you’re having trouble getting your dog to back up in a straight line, try training in a hallway first, or with your dog up against a wall.

maddie

mookitty

• Your dog. • A variety of pea-sized training rewards. • Training cue: “beep, beep, beep” or “back up,” or whatever cue you want to use.

Custody battle over kitty raises important issues Jake Faris • Spot Magazine

The Cliff Notes

Many pet-lovers were surprised by a recent story in The Oregonian. Writer Aimee Green related the convoluted tale under the headline “Cat Envy? Neighbor’s custody dispute ends in settlement.” Her report followed the apparent end to what she called “a bizarre saga” that saw Merlin, a fouryear-old Siamese cat, reunited with his owners after a prolonged conflict that “went legal” with neighbors five doors down.

If you missed the story, I’ll try to compress it so we can get to some of the underlying issues. Don’t worry; there won’t be a test. Merlin’s owners are Donnella and Charles Whitacre of SE Portland. Neighbors RoseMarie Opp and Lawrence Hudetz live five doors down. The story began in late 2006 when Merlin, a friendly indoor/outdoor kitty known to enjoy visiting his nearby neighbors, failed to come home one November night. Donnella Whitacre had searched for him for two days and even visited the pound when he turned up near RoseMarie Opp’s house. The Oregonian’s article then describes a tit-for-tat battle over where Merlin would call home. The specifics are spelled out in the article — though some fall into the “contested” category — but essentially, Merlin became the ball in a game of keep-away. The game reached a stalemate when the Whitacres called the police in August 2007 after Opp/ Hudetz refused to return Merlin. The next day, Opp and Hudetz placed a lien on the cat. The animal was then sold via auction to Opp and Hudetz, who claimed their reason for filing the lien was concern over “his well-being with the Whitacres.” After the police washed their hands of the matter, deeming it a civil affair, the Whitacres hired an attorney and sued in November 2007. The suit asked for the return of Merlin and $5,450 in damages and costs. The ice began to thaw when a judge ruled against the lien last summer. The ruling cited the fact that $1400 in vet bills sought by

Opp and Hudetz had been incurred without the Whitacres’ consent. A settlement was finally reached Dec. 7, 2008, including Merlin’s return to the Whitacres and all legal issues being dropped.

The Issues The tale raises many questions. At the heart of what sounds like a painful ordeal for all involved are issues that — while perhaps as contentious as the story itself — beg examination in the spirit of avoiding another like “bizarre saga.” The single-most striking aspect of the case is the legal machination of filing a lien to secure Merlin. Attorney Geordie Duckler, who runs the Animal Law Practice in Portland, represented Opp and Hudetz for, as he says, “a good chunk” of the saga. However, he does clarify that toward the end — and specifically when the settlement was worked out — “It wasn’t mine anymore.” According to Duckler, liens placed on animals are “used quite often, primarily for livestock.” Duckler explains that livestock are often moved from ranch to ranch for all sorts of reasons. If contractual obligations aren’t met, or fees aren’t paid, then a farmer or rancher can place a lien on the livestock until all obligations are satisfied. Another reason liens might be placed on an animal is failure to pay vet bills. Clearly, liens are often used in instances of contract dispute. In the case of Merlin, the judge found that there really wasn’t a contract, or even consent for the services Opp and Hudetz obtained for Merlin. Though lawyers might look at Merlin’s case and see much gray area — most attorneys like gray

area because it presents opportunity to argue points of law — most “pet people” would consider this a case of theft (or perhaps kidnapping). In fact, the fifth definition of 1st degree Theft under Oregon law is the taking or withholding of a “dog or cat possessed by a person . . . for purpose of companionship, security, hunting, herding or providing assistance in relation to a physical disability” with the intent to deprive another person of the dog or cat. To learn about other facets of the law, see the complete definition under ORS 164.055. By definition, companion pets are considered property by law. Yet, as Kathy Covey, PR and Marketing Manager of the Cat Adoption Team in Sherwood says, “As a companion the cat has value beyond that of a possession.” This sentiment is surely shared by most pet parents. The disconnect between the way pet “owners” view our relationship with our pets and how the law views our relationship with our “property” is an issue that will only be reconciled if and when the law changes. On the books, laws are usually pretty cut-and-dried. Life, however, is rarely black and white. That’s why there are lawyers. In the case of Merlin, whose “possession” seemed to switch repeatedly between the two families, it’s not surprising the police decided the matter would best be handled by the civil courts. Legal issues aside, another critical aspect of this story is the issue of inside and outside cats. According to Multnomah County code, cats aren’t considered “animals at large,” and so needn’t be confined continued pg 26 SPOT MAGAZINE

| JANUARY 2009

Sellwood Dog wash gets new home, new name Sellwood Grooming, formerly known as Dirty Dog Dog Wash, has moved to a renovated larger location on the corner of Milwaukee Ave. and SE Knapp, just blocks from their previous location. The new space boasts much more room for U-Washes and in-store professional grooms, say the folks at Sellwood Grooming, adding there is a groom their own dogs wish. Proprietors Springtym Shawn Osmer are excit about their new change location. During Janua Springtyme’s birthday month, they’ve lowered Wash prices ($10-$18) and are including complimentary nail trims to all U-Washes as a special gift. The shop is open Tues. – Sat. 10-6, Sun. 115 at 7302 SE Milwauke Ave. in Portland. Detai SellwoodGrooming.co

Club K-9 kicks off singles mixers The folks at Club K-9 in North Portland say, “Hey all you Single Doggy Moms and Daddies — Bring your pup to Club K-9 and mix and mingle with fellow single parents (of the canine variety) at the new Friday night indoor dog park for singles only.” Dogs are gifted ice-breakers, and this is

22 SPOT MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2009

a great way to meet people with common interests. Mixers are held Friday nights 7:30 -9:30. RSVP in advance to 503.289.7472. Admission $10. Club K-9 is also offering Sunday Socials this month, Jan. 11, 18 and 25 from 1-3pm. Why get cold and wet when you can play where it’s clean and dry! Join the fun at Club K-9’s huge daycare play area. Call for details and to RSVP: 503.289.7472. Admission $5 per dog.

help, often from concerned neighbors, who can no longer stand to hear a chained or penned dog cry or bark all night long, or who are just plain disturbed by the sight of a dog suffering through another winter,” says Tamira Ci Thayne, founder and director of the six-year-old nonprofit, which works on numerous fronts to change laws and minds and to educate people about the suffering endured by dogs

January Yappy Hour is all about love Paws for Love is the theme for this month’s Yappy Hour, happening Wednesday Jan. 28, 6-8pm. Urban Wineworks, 407 NW 16th in Portland. In partnership with LexiDog and the Oregon Humane Society, Urban Wineworks hosts Yappy Hour the last Wednesday night of the month. The casual upbeat gathering is a great chance to get together with other dog lovers and their pups. This month’s special activity is paw print Valentines and Urban’s annual Smooch-A-Pooch event with some of the best kissers in the doggy world! All participants get to take home their Valentine, and the purchase of a bottle of Bishop Creek Cellars wine boosts OHS. Details urbanwineworks.com.

Chained dogs suffer in frozen yards While some cities and states have laws against lifetime chaining, millions of dogs face an agonizing winter at the end of a chain. Dogs Deserve Better, a national nonprofit working to end the suffering of dogs kept perpetually chained or caged, is fielding numerous reports this winter of dogs suffering and dying outdoors as bitter cold sweeps the country. “In winter, our volunteers always see a large increase in the number of calls for

kept chained or caged. In most places in the U.S., it’s legal to keep a dog outside and chained, no matter how low temperatures drop. “We encourage people to remember that although it can be hard to take a stand on behalf of a neighbor’s dog, a concerned neighbor can quite often make the difference between life and death for these animals,” says Thayne. Hundreds of municipalities have passed or are considering laws against the practice of 24/7 chaining.

However, an estimated 6 million “backyard dogs” will face another lonely winter with nothing but a leaky doghouse, frozen water, no exercise, and agonizing cold. Perpetually chained dogs often become neurotic or aggressive from their constant confinement, often posing a danger to people. Dogs Deserve Better provides a variety of services to people who agree to take their dogs off their chains, including providing help with socialization and housetraining and building fences. To learn more, visit dogsdeservebetter.org.

Young helping hands reach paws in need Oregon Friends of Shelter Animals (OFOSA) will be presented with a check for over $1000 by the 5th Grade Ambassadors Club of Mary Woodward Elementary in Tigard this month. The donation is specifically to help pay for medical costs for Holly, a black Lab puppy whose leg was amputated due to injury. “We received Holly from a Washington shelter at eight weeks, after she was thrown from a moving car and injured her hind leg. Our efforts to rehab Holly’s leg failed, requiring surgery to amputate the leg,” says Cathy Nechak, president and founder of OFOSA. “Three legged dogs do surprisingly well, and this will give Holly the best opportunity at a full and happy life.” The Ambassadors, a group of 5th graders, hosted a schoolwide coin and can drive to raise funds for Holly’s surgery. Dr. Keith Gordon of Walnut Street Veterinary Clinic in Hillsboro challenged the students by offering to match their funds raised dollar for dollar.

AKC Canine Health Foundation calls for Westie samples

New film launches complete with companion game Hotel for Dogs, the video game based on the new feature film, Hotel For Dogs from DreamWorks Pictures and Nickelodeon Movies, is now in stores. Like the live-action movie, the video game focuses on dogs — lots of dogs. In the game, players enter the old hotel to help two siblings, Andi and Bruce, feed and entertain dozens of pups by building amazing gadgets, playing with the pooches and keeping the dogs happy in their new hotel home. Players also help Andi and Bruce explore outside the hotel as they attempt to find and rescue additional dogs in need of a safe place to call home.

The kids collected over $1000 for the surgery, which has already been completed. Holly has recovered well and is now available for adoption through OFOSA. “These kids did an amazing job and we are so proud to be the recipients of their hard

work,” says Nechak. “Holly is doing fine and full of puppy vigor. She doesn’t even know she’s missing a leg.”

The Ostrander Laboratory at the National Human Genome Research Institute at NIH in collaboration with the Purdue Comparative Oncology Program at Purdue University and the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at the University of Minnesota is conducting research on the genetic susceptibility to transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the urinary bladder in the West Highland White Terrier and other breeds. This is a devastating disease with genetic underpinnings and the foundation’s goal is to identify the genetic variants responsible for susceptibility. Westies are five times more likely to be diagnosed with TCC than other dogs, and treatment of advanced TCC has often met with disappointing results. Many Westies die of the disease each year. continued next page

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strive to make sure our canine companions have the highest quality safety gear.” Details ruffwear.com.

continued from previous page

The Ostrander Lab is soliciting blood samples from Westies with a diagnosis of TCC. Veterinarians with Westie clients with a diagnosis

visibility dog jacket that keeps active dogs visible and safe during low-light conditions. Ruff Wear’s expansion of gear For Dogs on the Go® continues to inspire an active lifestyle for humans and their four-legged friends in all seasons. In the limited daylight of winter months, dog safety

Tips from Ruff Wear on staying active during lowlight months • Taking your dog for an early morning walk or hike is a great time to enjoy the outdoors and start your day energized. • Get out and try a new outdoor activity – trail

American Idol’s Paula Abdul, multiplatinum and award-winning recording artist and performer, has become the probono spokesperson for American Humane’s Pets and Women’s Shelters Program (PAWS). “The relationship I have with my dogs is not only very special to me, but also a great source of comfort and peace of mind,” says Abdul. “The PAWS Program is a critical way of providing a transition for abused women and children into a safer and better life. I feel privileged to be involved with this extremely important and necessary program.” The PAWS program is the first national initiative of its kind, promoting on-site housing of pets at women’s shelters. It was created by Allie Phillips, director of public policy for American Humane, who frequently witnessed the pain families suffered when forced to stay in abusive situations out of fear for their pets’ safety. Nearly 85 percent of all women entering domestic violence shelters reported that a of TCC are encouraged to contact the foundation to learn more: 301.451.9390 or herdaa@mail.nih.gov.

Ruff Wear introduces The Track Jacket Ruff Wear, the Bend-based producer of high performance dog gear, unveiled its new Track Jacket this season, a high-

24 SPOT MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2009

becomes increasingly important. The new blaze orange Track Jacket with reflective trim offers intense visibility, ensuring that canine companions can be seen from dusk ‘til dawn. “The message here is safety,” says Patrick Kruse, Ruff Wear’s owner and founder. Dogs shouldn’t be left behind even when the days are shorter. We

Raffle, happening Jan. 1-24. Tickets are $10, and everyone (sports fans and dog lovers included) is encouraged to get their tickets before they run out. Only 1000 will be sold. Purchase your chance to win a 42” big screen TV and $250 gift card to complete your Super Bowl party. Tickets are on sale now; the winner will be drawn Saturday Jan. 24, during the Superbowl Pick Party. Details catadoptionteam.org.

partner had threatened, injured or killed the family pet, according to a 1997 study. And more often than not, because of few options for safely housing pets from abusive homes, victims feel they have little choice but to stay and subject themselves, their children and their pets to further violence. The ultimate goal of PAWS is to enable more domestic violence victims to leave abusive households without leaving their pets behind and at risk. “We are delighted to have Ms. Abdul help us build awareness about this crucial national initiative,” says Marie Belew Wheatley, president and CEO of the 131-year-old American Humane Association. “She knows that women fleeing domestic violence also worry about the pets they have to leave behind — and sometimes suffer the consequences by not leaving — and, when needing a new start, their pets can be crucial to their recovery efforts.” Abdul’s duties as spokesperson will include public service announcements, public appearances and more.

running, hiking, and biking – dogs love getting on the go!

Still waiting for that big-screen from Santa? If it didn’t come this year, you can enter to win one during Cat Adoption Team’s Big Screen TV

Help keep their tummies filled The Cat Food Bank is open Jan. 4, noon-2:30, to provide cat food for cat owners in financial need. The Cat Food Bank is located at CAT’s shelter at 14175 SW Galbreath Dr. in Sherwood. Details/Directions catadoptionteam.org or 503.925.8903.

continued from pg 13

have cost around a thousand dollars to give her a vulvaplasty to alter her anatomy to let her go to the bathroom better. But we had to say no. So I got the job of cleaning her regularly.” This kind of decision-making is an option Sacks says more people need to consider. “Come to your vet somewhat informed. Ask questions. Understand which services are necessities and which are optional. If you can barely afford the procedure, then consider where else you can save some money.” Sacks points out that this doesn’t mean a pet owner is stingy or withholding care: rather that there’s only so much money to go around. She emphasizes that folks should do the best that they can in terms of food and vet care, but it’s got to be balanced with what they can afford. “It’s not about negotiating on the bill; it’s about understanding which services are absolutely necessary,” she says. So how to know when something is absolutely necessary? According to Walker, “Every animal should be seen at least once a year. We’re going to look for things. We can check for heart murmurs, dental disease; we can feel for abdominal masses. Animals age seven times as fast as we do. So if you take them to the vet once a year, that’s like if we go to the doctor

for an annual physical once every seven years. And then, once an animal gets to be older, seven for dogs, nine for cats, we recommend screening tests. They can look perfectly fine, but we can detect diseases early on. We can find them,

they’re eating less, or eating more than they should. Maybe their urine or stool output is more. A one-pound weight loss in a 10-pound cat can be very significant. They really have to be professionally evaluated so we can find out what’s going on so things can turn around for them.

“Come to your vet somewhat informed. Ask questions. Understand which services are necessities and which are optional. If you can barely afford the procedure, then consider where else you can save some money.” we can cure them, and some early tests can make all the difference in whether or not the pet’s going to live to be 15 years old.” The doctor goes on to say, “People bring me lame dogs all the time and say, ‘Oh but he’s not hurting.’ But he’s limping. He is hurting; otherwise, he’d be walking normally. They suffer silently because that is their survival mechanism. Maybe they’re losing a little weight, they’re drinking a little more water,

Ginger’s only visit to the vet. At one point Ginger had an eyelash growing underneath her eyelid. That required a $700 laser surgery. Tarjan-Schutz says, “That was one we simply had to do.” So, we choose. And a good friend to help weigh the factors is your vet or neighborhood pet professional (in almost any field). Oftentimes, pet professionals in every field have a passion that spurs them to learn all about pets. And if you find yours doesn’t have answers or suggestions, it’s a good bet they can refer you to a friend or associate who will.

“Someone says, ‘Oh my cat is weak in the hindquarters,’” says Walker. Well, they could be weak because they’re dehydrated, they’re in renal failure, they have a fever, they have an abscess, they have a broken leg. It could be anything. But once we examine them, then we know.” That’s pretty much what happened with Ginger and her ACL. Tarjan-Schutz took her to the vet, understood the situation, and chose not to operate. However, that wasn’t

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| JANUARY 2009

continued from pg 21

to the owner’s yard or be on-leash when out and about. So it’s perfectly legal to have a cat who comes and goes, patrols the neighborhood, and visits neighboring friends. However, many animal care and rescue professionals work tirelessly to raise awareness about keeping cats indoors. Covey cites statistics that put the average lifespan of an outdoor cat at 18 months to 5 years, and another that says indoor cats live three times longer than outdoor cats. The Humane Society of the United States wants pet parents to consider the harm that can come from traffic, disease, poisons, parasites, other animals and cruel people. The last item on the HSUS list of dangers is “Loss of Home,” the fate that befell Merlin, though he did have people caring for him. The sad fact is that of all cats that wind up in shelters, only 5% find their families again. With characteristic dry wit, Covey says the case of Merlin is “an extreme reason to keep your cat indoors.” What no one has said is that while the case is bizarre, considering all the horrible things that can happen, Merlin is fortunate to be back home.

Best Practices The practical issue in the matter — the moral of the story, if you will — is how best to keep this from happening to your beloved. Having a lost pet is hard enough, but imagine the anguish of missing your pet while knowing he or she is just five houses away. Though many pet parents might find the definition of pet as property distasteful, Merlin’s case illustrates the importance of identifying your pet as “yours.” And not just for purposes of possession: in the event you’d need to “identify” your pet, ID tag, license and microchips work. One of the claims made in Merlin’s case was that Opp didn’t think Merlin belonged to anyone. That collar tag and license would eliminate such a misunderstanding.

26 SPOT MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2009

If you do manage to find a lost dog or cat there are two roads to take. One is to turn the animal in to the animal control agency in your county. This is where owners look first. The second option is to babysit the errant creature. To differentiate between babysitting and stealing, you must make a concerted effort to find the owners, which includes filing a found pet report with your county shelter, posting “found pet” signs and placing ads in the paper and websites like craigslist, and checking those same resources for “lost pet” ads that might match your new ward. Another step to consider is taking the dog or cat to a veterinarian to be scanned for a microchip. One of the reasons the lien was placed on Merlin is that Opp and Hudetz were worried about his wellbeing. Barbara Baugnon, Marketing and PR Director of the Oregon Humane Society, expressed some shock at how this issue of a pet’s well-being was handled. She said, “There’s compassion and then there’s breaking the law.” Knowing and enforcing Oregon animal cruelty and neglect laws is one of the many things OHS does. Yet, as Baugnon explains, even in investigations they do a lot of educating. If there are concerns about an animal’s well-being, taking the animal from the owner is not the solution. Concerns about animal abuse or neglect — for example an animal without water or shelter — should always be brought to the attention of OHS investigators. Report forms are available online, or you can leave a detailed message at 503.285.7722, ext. 214. The easy response to Merlin’s story is to take a side or secondguess the decisions made. Either is easy; it’s after the fact, and emotions are no longer running high. When it comes to relationships — between pets and their owners or neighbors — it’s not only important to stay within the boundaries of the law, it’s important to, as Covey says, “Always give people the benefit of the doubt.”

continued from pg 15

customers get their bigticket items, like crates. There might be other discounts as well. Furever Pet customers who foster or volunteer at local shelters receive a 10% discount. That same discount is extended to customers who work nearby on Broadway. Lee also points out that many stores give discounts when canned food is purchased by the case. Beyond treats, fleas and food is the beauty upkeep that might get trimmed — pun intended — due to budgeting. Of course my Golden Retriever, Buddy, would argue that one should never sacrifice grooming to the recession. And while our Springfield grooming experts Connie Schauermann and Dale Bishop would agree, they have great tips on keeping costs down while keeping dogs like Buddy happy. Both groomers say the best trick is to do as much maintenance as possible at home. This may mean an initial outlay on a good set of nail clippers (remember to get the right size for the dog or cat), a slicker brush, and a good strong comb “to make sure you’re getting all the hair,” says. Schauermann. Then, as Bishop says, “brush, brush, brush, brush, brush!” Bishop also recommends getting the dog to the groomer more than once or twice a year. This is especially true for dogs that really need grooming.

Here, kitty kitty • Regular grooming, especially for longhaired cats, can really reduce vet bills. Feces and other unwanted items can get trapped in their fur, which is not only uncomfortable, but unsanitary. • Hairballs can be serious (and expensive). A hairball lodged in the digestive tract can block the intestines, and lead to complications or even death. Regular grooming reduces hairballs. • Grooming kitty stimulates circulation and releases body oils good for the coat. This is also a great time to check for lumps and bumps, skin problems and parasites.

She once had to charge $125 for the grooming of a Standard Poodle. “It took us all day for two of us to do it.” Other grooming tips include brushing your dog when he or she is dry. “If you brush them dry the dirt falls right off,” says Bishop. Schauermann cautions about baths and winter weather. Make sure your precious has a chance to dry completely, she says, all the way to the skin, before he or she is exposed to the elements. One bath can be awfully expensive if it turns into pneumonia. Now that you’ve heard from a few of our top pros in their trades, here perhaps is your best tip of all: talk to your neighborhood expert — he or she is likely to be a fount of great tips that can really make a difference!

ADOPTION COMPANIONS FOR LIFE 300 cats & kittens looking for forever home, altered, tested, vaccinated, microchipped, indoor, ready to love. Adoption fee $85-$125. M-F: 11-7, Sa-Su 10-6. Cat Adoption Team 503.925.8903 www.catadoptionteam.org Volunteers welcome. Fosters needed.

ANIMAL COMMUNICATOR SONJA GRACE COMMUNICATES with your pet, discovering behavioral patterns, cause of illness, psychological needs and healing for both pet and owner. She has been working with animals for the past twenty years. Sonja Grace helps to locate lost pets, communicate with pets that have crossed over and does longdistance healing work for illness, preventative energy work and all areas of healing. For appointment please call 503.746.6525 or visit www.sonjagrace.com.

WHAT IS YOUR PET DOING ALL DAY? Chewing, Digging, Barking Bored and Missing You. Call A LUCKY DOG. 1-800-GO-LUCKY

DOG GROOMING EUG/SPRINGFIELD

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BOARDING Park Your Car Board Your Pet Board Your Flight

• 5 minutes from Portland International Airport • Open 24-7 by appointment for check-in and check-out • Next to park-and-ﬂy services • Voted "Best Doggie Dash" By Willamette Week, 2004

We Cater to Your Schedule www.airpethotel.com • 503-255-1388

“WE HAVE A WARM HEART FOR A COLD NOSE” LEXIDOG AT 5TH STREET PUBLIC MARKET Features Experienced grooming by Jessica Plante — Let Jess pamper your pup from nose to toes! Call 541-343-5394 for an appointment.

$25/DAY AJ’S K9 KAMP FOSTER CARE Visit the photo page on www.ajs-k9kamp.com. Day care & overnight home care. Canines FOSTER PARENTS NEEDED under 30 lbs. Nr the airport. 15 yrs exp. If you would like to be a volunteer foster parent Licensed. Insured. 7am - 8pm 503-252-7652. for Other Mothers Animal Rescue, please call 503.452.0465 to request an application. We need dedicated animal lovers to care for pregBOOKKEEPING nant dogs or cats and/or their litters until they PET-FRIENDLY BOOKKEEPER in Beaverton! can be adopted into permanent homes.Please 12120 SW 1st St. (Across from the Beaverton check us out at www.othermothers.org, Then post office) 503.352.4188 call if you can help these precious puppies or kittens. This is a great way to get to cuddle DAYCARE the baby critters without committing to more than 6 or 8 weeks. Other Mothers needs you! See AJ’s K9 Kamp under Boarding 971.321.6858. THE BED & BISCUIT ON SUNNYSIDE Daycare and overnight stays in my home for dogs over 30# Special needs, meds OK! Lisa 503-658-5737 FOREST PARK BED & BISCUIT Dog daycare, overnights & basic grooming while you wait or play. Private setting in NW PDX, close to Montgomery Park. Call Linda for details 503-768-9932 or 971-570-3646. HOME AWAY FROM HOME The Dog Manor for fun and friendly Doggie Daycare! Your best friend’s home away from home. 503-309-0372 M-F 7-6:30 North Portland

HEALTH/WELLNESS ORGANIC WHEAT-FREE DOG TREAT RECIPES Send $3 & an SASE to Mrs. Paws at 8056 E Mill Plain Blvd. Vancouver WA 98664. WALLACE PARK ANIMAL ACUPUNCTURE Complementary integrative pet care for a variety of health concerns. 20 yrs of experience and instructor to veterinarians. On the dog park in NW Portland. Dr.T. McCormick, LAc 503-810-0755

Dog portraiture in colored pencil. Celebrate your friend or commemorate a past companion!

Contact P.C. Pierce at 503-641-4585 oysterbasco@yahoo.com www.myspace.com/oysterbascoart

HELP WANTED

PET SITTING

FRIENDLY PEOPLE WANTED To deliver Spot Magazine to newsstands. A few hours, a few bucks. Never leave your own neighborhood! 1-2 days per month. Salem and Eugene routes available. To apply, call call 503.261.1162.

BowWows & Meows Pet Services Need a pet-sitter who will love your pets as much as she loves her own? BowWows & Meows Pet Services . . . Because It’s All About Them! We also love birds! Serving West Vancouver & Jantzen Beach areas. Pet-sitting and Mid-Day Potty Breaks. 360.903.4174

GROOMER WANTED DEPENDABLE RETIRED COUPLE T-Sat, Exp, detail oriented, neat and friendly. We do overnight and vacation house and pet Please call Liana Mon-Fri 503-291-0010 sitting. Dogs, cats, horses, whatever! Responsible with great references. 503-679-5613 or GROOMER WANTED T-Sun. Min. 1 yr exp. Must have own hand tools, 503-537-9719 clipper & blades, etc. Work as independent conLISA & FRIENDS PET SITTING tractor. Must be reliable, have self-pride and good customer service skills. Shop is self-serve Quality pet care in a comfortable home environ& grooming by apt. Please email resume to: ment at great prices. In-home visits also available. All pets welcome. Refs. 503-490-3762 bowsersbath2000@yahoo.com. WRITERS Spot is growing! We are always considering talented writers. The budget is humble but growing. The readership is passionate and the standard is high. If interested, please send letter of intro (especially your areas of interest/expertise in pets), along with two samples to: publisher@spotmagazine.net. No phone calls please.

GIFTS BIRTHDAYS • THANK YOU GIFTS CHRISTMAS • RINGSIDE SHOW TOTE Our beautiful custom hand made totes are the perfect choice for all your gift giving needs. For the trainer or ringside, garden or car, our durable totes won’t topple, keeping your supplies easily at hand. For fabric and style ideas visit us at nanabsboutique.com or call Beccie Reilly 503-939-4602. Gift certiﬁcates available.

PET PORTRAITS

HOUSE & PET SITTERS KRITTER KARE OF PORTLAND Daily dog walks. Vacation pet sitting. “Overnites” & house sitting services. Caring for domestics & exotics in the tri-county area since 1994. Licensed, bonded, insured. Refs. 503-252-0599, 503-940-7761.

Classified Ad Rates: 1x $40

3x $33

6x $25

12x $20

3 lines of text, 45 characters per line Additional lines $1 per line per month *These rates apply only to text ads, not display ads

FURRY DUTY IN HOME CARE Boarding/Daily Walking. Contact Char 503.829.7181 or jcpalmer@molalla.net or MiriamatFurryDuty@yahoo.com or 503-807-4578

PET TRAVEL FOR THE TRAVELING DOGS WITH FAMILIES Otto Step! Completely portable platform step for loading and unloading Fido. Insert into any 2” trailer hitch receiver, load and stow after use. Visit www.OttoStep.com or call 888-311OTTO (6886).

TRAINING HAPPY PALS DOG TRAINING Have fun w/your dog teaching manners and/or earning titles in obed, rally, conf, or tracking. Judges from several orgs. Private lessons, your home or our facilities. Call Loanne or Roger 503-359-9297. SPOT MAGAZINE

| JANUARY 2009

J A N U A RY • 2 0 0 9

1 thursday • Help Blaze Help the OHS Animals — Portland Trail Blazers Pet Appreciation Night is Feb. 8 (they’ll take on the Knicks). Today’s the deadline to get tickets; $5 from each ticket will go to the Oregon Humane Society. The best photos of pets wearing Trail Blazer gear will be shown on the big screen during the game. Send photos to: petpics @trailblazers.com. To order tickets, go to http:// tickets.trailblazers.com/deals and use the discount code PET. JANUARY 8th DEADLINE for TICKET ORDERS. • January Cat Promotion in Eugene. 50% off adoption fees for all grey & white cats (not including kittens) throughout the month of January at Greenhill Humane Society. • Wanted: Ring Crews for Agility Trials Jan. 3 & 4 in Ridgeﬁeld, Wash. You’ve seen those amazing agility dogs ﬂying through the obstacle course beside their handlers. See them up close and personal by volunteering with Animal Aid to participate in the upcoming trails. Lend a hand, and you’re guaranteed the best seat in the house! No experience necessary; details animalaidpdx.org/helping/speci alProjects.php#winterAgility. Noon — Pet Loss Support at DoveLewis, 19th & Pettygrove in Portland.

3 saturday

10am — Pet Nutrition & News with Chip Sammons on KKPZ, 1330 AM radio. Chip helps you help your pets live long, healthy, happy lives. 11am — Adoption Outreach

28 SPOT MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2009

with Marion County Dog Shelter at Woodburn Petsense ‘til 4pm. Come meet some sweet, adoptable dogs! 11am — OHS Adoption Outreach at Tigard PetsMart ‘til 3 and noon-4 today at Furever Pets, 1902 NE Broadway in Portland. Noon — Adopt a Cat this weekend. CAT counselors are on-site at local PetsMart stores Saturdays & Sundays ‘til 4.

2pm — Ask-A-Trainer at Greenhill Humane Society in Eugene. Certified Dog Trainer Nancy Yamin, owner of Mutts Better, chats with visitors in the Greenhill lobby the first Saturday of every month, answering questions about basic obedience & behavior modification. Yamin’s expertise & experience can help solve everyday issues with dogs and puppies. Free.

6 tuesday

7pm — Group Training with Jennifer Biglan in Eugene. Good Dog 1: Learn fun, positive training techniques in a fun and relaxing environment. Space is limited; pre-registration required. Details www.dogandcat.org or 541.686.6768.

8 thursday

9am — Pet Loss Support at DoveLewis, 19th & Pettygrove in Portland.

9 friday

A good earcleaning solution is two parts water with one part white vinegar.

Participating locations include: Cascade Station in Portland, Clackamas, Hillsboro, Tanasbourne in Hillsboro, Tigard, Tualatin, Wilsonville and Washington Square. Noon — Saturday Show & Tell ‘til 4 at Animal Aid, 5335 SW 42nd Ave (south of Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy). Weekday visiting hours 114. Details 503.292.6628 or animalaidpdx.org. 12:30pm — Problem Pooch class at Oregon Humane Society in Portland. Group discussions led by OHS behavior specialists for those entering or considering pet parenthood. Details oregonhumane.org. Offered again Jan. 17 at 12:30.

4 sunday

Noon — The Cat Food Bank is open ‘til 2:30 today at the shelter in Sherwood, 14175 SW Galbreath Dr. Cat Adoption Team’s Cat Food Bank provides cat food for owners in ﬁnancial need. Details/ Directions catadoptionteam.org or 503.925.8903.

5 monday

• Feline Fix-a-Thon. Make reservations now for Feb. or March spay/neuter. Subsidized prices are $20/spay or $10/ neuter, available for cat owners in ﬁnancial need. Call CAT at 503.925.8903 to schedule. Details catadoptionteam.org.

7:30pm — Singles Mixer at Club K-9 in North Portland. A new Friday-night indoor park for single dog moms & dads and their pups to play & mingle. Admission $10; RSVP to 503.289.7472.

10 saturday

9am — Run with the Dogs adoption event at Petco in Lake Oswego. The dogs will go for a jog with the Red Lizard Running Club (or you can take one for a test drive yourself!) and then are available to meet folks 10-noon. 10am — Pet Nutrition & News with Chip Sammons on KKPZ, 1330 AM radio. Chip helps you help your pets live long, healthy, happy lives. 11am — Adoption Outreach with Marion County Dog Shelter at Salem PetsMart ‘til 4pm. Come meet some sweet, adoptable dogs! 11am — Volunteer/Foster Care Orientation at Greenhill Humane in Eugene. Learn about the exciting opportunities to work with Greenhill staff & animals. Volunteers needed as dog walkers, kennel cleaners, cattery workers, and to help in the ofﬁce. Man hours ﬁlled

Photo by Jeff Shannon

serves pets of people who by volunteers free up staff and are homeless or living in funds that beneﬁt Greenhill transitional or emergency residents. Foster Care program housing. Services include also covered. RSVP required; vaccines, well-pet check-ups, details green-hill.org. treatment of minor illnesses, Noon — Adopt a Cat this diseases & wounds, food & weekend. CAT counselors are supplies. Details proboneo.org on site at local PetsMart stores 1pm — Sunday Social at Saturdays & Sundays ‘til 4. Club K-9 in North Portland. Noon — Looking for Some Admission $5/dog; RSVP to Bunny to Love? One is 503.289.7472. looking for you! Meet them, and their wonderful Rabbit Advocates, at Western Pet Supply in Beaverton ‘til 3. The Advocates are devoted to rabbit rescue & welfare. Their events are fun, informative — even beautifying. They’ll clip your bunny’s nails too! (Donations appreciated.) Details adoptarabbit.org. Noon — Saturday Show & Tell ‘til 4 at Animal Aid, 5335 SW 42nd Ave (south of Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy). Spot’s Art Director, Lancea LaPorte, Weekday visiting skijoring with her Goldendoodle, Molly. hours 11-4. Details What’s SKIJORING? 503.292.6628 or Read all about it, pg 18 animalaidpdx.org. 12:30pm — Finicky 1pm — Memorial Art Feline class at Oregon Community Workshop Humane Society in Portland. with DoveLewis at 1945 NW Group discussions led by Pettygrove, Families Welcome OHS behavior specialists for 1-2:30, adults (ages 16 & up) those entering or considering 3-4:30. Enid Traisman, MSW pet parenthood. No need facilitates workshops offered to RSVP. Please leave the 2nd Sunday of every month, your pets at home. Details each with an opportunity to oregonhumane.org. create something unique to 2pm — OHS Basic Manners take home. Free but you must Dog Training class. Fun, RSVP: dovelewis.org/giftshop. positive and ﬂexible. Free Intro Training Class (prerequisite) offered today at 2 and Jan. 24 at 3. Details 6pm — Intro to Animal oregonhumane.org. Communication at Oregon Humane Society. 2-session class explores the basics of animal communication: • Canine Massage & Energy what it is, how it works & fun Work by Sarah Logan of A techniques to practice on your Pawsitive Touch at LexiDog own. Please leave pets at in Eugene. Call ahead for an home but bring photos. Private appointment: 541.343.5394. readings will not be offered. 2nd 9am — Pro-Bone-O Vet Clinic session Jan. 21. Free; RSVP at St. Vincent dePaul at its required: oregonhumane.org/ Lindholm Service Center in pet_training. Eugene ‘til 1. Pro-Bone-O

15 thursday

5:30pm — Volunteer Orientation at Willamette Humane Society in Salem (4246 Turner Rd. SE). Learn about rewarding opportunities to care for animals in need. Held every 1st Tuesday and 3rd Thursday. No need to RSVP; details willamettehumane.org.

16 friday

7:30pm — Singles Mixer at Club K-9 in North Portland. A new Friday-night indoor park for single dog moms & dads and their pups to play & mingle. Admission $10; RSVP to 503.289.7472.

17 saturday

10am — Meet the Sweet Adoptables from Animal Aid at Western Pet Supply, 6908 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy. in Portland ‘til 2. Details 503.292.6628 or AnimalAidPDX.org. 10am — Pet Nutrition & News with Chip Sammons on KKPZ, 1330 AM radio. Chip helps you help your pets live long, healthy, happy lives. 11am — OHS Adoption Outreach at LexiDog in Portland’s Pearl District ‘til 3. Noon — Adopt a Cat this weekend. CAT counselors are on site at local PetsMart stores Saturdays & Sundays ‘til 4.

Noon — Saturday Show & Tell ‘til 4 at Animal Aid, 5335 SW 42nd Ave (south of Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy). Weekday visiting hours 114. Details 503.292.6628 or animalaidpdx.org.

18 sunday

1pm — Puppy Pre-School with Jennifer Biglan in Eugene. Good Dog 1: Learn fun, positive training techniques in a fun and relaxing environment. Space is limited; pre-registration required. Details www.dogandcat.org or 541.686.6768. 1pm — Sunday Social at Club K-9 in North Portland. Admission $5/dog; RSVP to 503.289.7472. 2:30pm — Group Training with Jennifer Biglan in Eugene. Good Dog 1: Learn fun, positive training techniques in a fun and relaxing environment. Space is limited; pre-registration required. Details www.dogandcat.org or 541.686.6768.

19 monday

7pm — Pet Loss Support at DoveLewis, 19th & Pettygrove in Portland.

14 wednesday

11 sunday

Promoting good alignment and flexibilty at all ages SPOT MAGAZINE

| JANUARY 2009

20 tuesday

6pm — Dog Massage for Owners class with Rubi Sullivan of Heal NW at the Pearl Animal Hospital, 1250 NW 10th Ave in Portland. Register at Pearl before the day of class. Heal provides dog beds, take-home info and individual instruction. You provide prepay and your dog. Details healnw.com.

21 wednesday

• Pet Loss Support at DoveLewis near Mall 205 in Portland. 7pm — DoveLewis Night at the Portland Trail Blazers game against the Cavs. Get your tickets! A portion of each beneﬁts Dove tonight. Details dovelewis.org/events/ﬁnd_us.

30 SPOT MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2009

22 thursday

6pm — Dog Massage for Owners class with Rubi Sullivan of Heal NW at Camp Doggie Tails in Tigard (14865 SW 72nd). Register at Camp Tails before the day of class. Heal provides dog beds, take-home info and individual instruction. You provide prepay and your dog. Details healnw.com. 7pm — Pet Loss Support at DoveLewis, 19th & Pettygrove in Portland. 7:15pm — Introduction to TTouch at Howl at The Moon in Vancouver. 2nd class Jan. 29. Advance registration, $50 admission, required. Class limited to 6. TTouch is great for behavior & temperament, age- and injury-related pain, healing, and deepening

the pet/person bond. This training & healthcare system is based on cooperation & understanding to promote optimal performance & health without fear or force. Details howl-at-the-moon.com.

23 friday

7:30pm — Singles Mixer at Club K-9 in North Portland. A new Friday-night indoor park for single dog moms & dads and their pups to play & mingle. Admission $10; RSVP to 503.289.7472.

24 saturday

• Change a Pet’s Life Day. Three to five hundred shelters across the U.S. are offering free pet adoptions today to anyone seeking to transform a pet’s life. Find the nearest participating shelter by entering your zip code at feedingisbelieving.com. Sponsored by Hills Pet Nutrition. As part of the effort, Hills is offering a live, toll-free hotline (today only) to answer questions on pet nutrition for special needs, behavior, fitness & general well-being. • Volunteer Orientation at Multnomah County Animal Services in Troutdale. Contact Ann Potter to register at ann.d. potter@co.multnomah.or.us, or call 503.988.6254. 9am — New Volunteer Orientation at the Marion County Dog Shelter in Salem. Details 503.365.3177 or jbray@co.marion.or.us. 10am — Pet First Aid Class at Howl at The Moon in Vancouver. Advance registration, $50 admission, required. 4-hour seminar ideal for pet professionals & experienced pet owners & breeders of cats & dogs all ages. Taught by lecture, demo & hands-on practice using demo & live dogs. Class includes workbook & completion certificate & wallet card. Topics include: Pet CPR and rescue breathing,

emergencies, “Snout-to-Tail” Assessment system, Top 10 urgent situations, building a pet first aid kit & treating choking, poisoning, bleeding, shock & more. Details howlat-the-moon.com. 10am — Pet Nutrition & News with Chip Sammons on KKPZ, 1330 AM radio. Chip helps you help your pets live long, healthy, happy lives. 10:30am — Superbowl Pick Party & Raffle. Feline football fans at CAT pick the winner of the upcoming Super Bowl. Watch as they make their calculating pick and cross your fingers there will be no cat fights! Then, CAT will draw the winner of the Big Screen TV Raffle. Join in for the fun at CAT’s shelter in Sherwood. Details catadoptionteam.org. 10:30am — TTouch for Dogs – Beyond the Basics at Oregon Humane Society. A specialized approach to the care & training of companion animals. In order to attend this class, owners should first attend a beginner TTouch workshop. Well behaved dogs welcome. Admission $65 with dog, $45 without (per household). RSVP (required) to oregonhumane.org/pet_ training. 11am — Adoption Outreach with Marion County Dog Shelter at Salem Petco ‘til 4pm. Come meet some sweet, adoptable dogs! Noon — Adopt a Cat this weekend. CAT counselors are on site at local PetsMart stores Saturdays & Sundays ‘til 4. Noon — OHS Adoption Outreach at Clackamas PetsMart ‘til 4. Noon — Saturday Show & Tell ‘til 4 at Animal Aid, 5335 SW 42nd Ave (south of Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy). Weekday visiting hours 114. Details 503.292.6628 or animalaidpdx.org.

25 sunday

9am — Pro-Bone-O Vet Clinic at St. Vincent dePaul at its Lindholm Service Center in Eugene ‘til 1. Pro-Bone-O serves pet of people who are homeless or living in transitional or emergency housing. Services include vaccines, well-pet check-ups, treatment of minor illnesses, diseases & wounds, food & supplies. Details proboneo.org. 11am — OHS Adoption Outreach at Petco on Division in SE Portland ‘til 3. Noon — MCAS dog adoption outreach at Kiehl’s, 712 NW 23rd in Portland. 1pm — Sunday Social at Club K-9 in North Portland. Admission $5/dog; RSVP to 503.289.7472.

28 wednesday

6pm — Yappy Hour: Paws for Love at Urban Wineworks. Join LexiDog, OHS & Urban for a social hour for both you & your pooch in the Pearl. Make a special pawprint Valentine with your dog, visit (and maybe fall in love!) with the adoptables,

and mingle with other pooches and pooch parents. SmoochA-Pooch is happening too, bringing out some of the best kissers in the doggy world!

31 saturday

10am — Pet Nutrition & News with Chip Sammons on KKPZ, 1330 AM radio. Chip helps you help your pets live long, healthy, happy lives. 11am — Pet Caricatures by Sam Arneson ‘til 5 at Howl at The Moon in Vancouver. A caricature makes a wonderful Valentine for dog & cat lovers! (“See the sample of my kids in the shop or on our website,” says proprietor Terry Johnson.) $20 (plus tax); RSVP early. Noon — Adopt a Cat this weekend. CAT counselors are on-site at local PetsMart stores Saturdays & Sundays ‘til 4. Noon — Saturday Show & Tell ‘til 4 at Animal Aid, 5335 SW 42nd Ave (south of Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy). Weekday visiting hours 114. Details 503.292.6628 or animalaidpdx.org

• Bang on the Hood. Wild animals and cats left outside may seek your car engine for warmth when temps drop. Knock on the hood a few times before starting the engine. • Having fur doesn’t mean you can withstand the cold. Keep dogs & cats inside if possible. If dogs are outside, they should have a draft-free shelter large enough to stand and turn around in, yet small enough to retain body heat. Use a layer of straw or other bedding material to help insulate against the cold. • Staying warm requires more fuel. Outdoor animals typically need more calories in winter, so feed them accordingly when the temperature drops. Check with your vet for guidance. • Ice, snow and salt. Many pets like to romp and stomp in the snow, but many people use powerful salt and chemicals for ice on sidewalks. Clean pets’ paws after an outing to prevent their pads from becoming dry and irritated. Signs of ingestion include excessive drooling, vomiting and depression. • Cold bugs. Mosquitoes and other bugs can pester year-round. Keep your pets on their regular heartworm, flea and tick preventive medicines. • Cold and flu season. Medications used to treat sniffles can be dangerous to pets. Keep all prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs out of your pets’ reach. Do not medicate animals without direction from your vet. • Use non-toxic antifreeze. Antifreeze tastes great to animals, but can be deadly. Look for “safe” non-toxic antifreeze and make sure all spills are cleaned IMMEDIATELY and THOROUGHLY. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect a pet has ingested antifreeze!

Jan 1, 2009: Mel Feit celebrates the New Year, and encourages an equal partnership between men and women. Jan 8, 2009: A wrap up of shared parenting efforts in 2008. Jan 15, 2009: Ed Cavin, M.S., former child protective services social worker, on reconnecting with his 18-year old son. Jan 22, 2009: Robert Pyland on safe haven laws for abandoning children. Jan 29, 2009: Sonja Harju with a monthly update on political and social issues.

1450 AM • kpsu.org

evenings/weekends • webcast 24/7 • huge diversity SPOT MAGAZINE

| JANUARY 2009

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