December 2009 - Spot Magazine

Magazzine Maga

Disaster Preparedness

HOME SAFE Safety Tips for the Season Help for

Nuisance Barking Bird Toys

We Presents!

Handmade with love

Great Gift Ideas EVERYTHING PET IN THE NORTHWEST NORTHWEST!! • DECEMBER 2009

Now open in Southeast Portland, an indoor swimming pool for dogs. Whether for therapeutic reasons or just for fun and fitness, your dog will love the 11 x 40 foot warm ZDWHU SRRO <RXÂśOO ORYH WKH FOLPDWH FRQWUROOHG environment. For more information visit our website at www.pawsaquatics.com, or call:

971-244-2227

12 Disaster Preparedness: HOME SAFE

16 Bird Toys Birds need regular mental and physical stimulation in order to thrive physically, mentally and emotionally. Because they love to shred and tear, keeping the toybox full can be a challenge!

Here are some great “recipes” for handmade toys made from inexpensive “ingredients” — proven to keep them busy and happy.

fire and carbon monoxide.

14 Safety for the Season

23 Heart-shaped tale not to be missed The true story of Nubs, a “dog of war” from Iraq, has everything dog lovers look for: love, loyalty, hope, compassion, bravery, and the perseverance of a scrappy little dog who would not give up.

Meet some of the precious babies who make their way to Spot’s door.

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Reader Spotlight Meet Tater, Isabella, Maggie, Jack and Roxy

22 Learning on the Spot 28 MarketPlace Spot introduces the MarketPlace, the place to shop for the best products, services and pet-related everything in the Northwest!

10 We Love Presents!

Great Gift Ideas Spot’s annual gift guide presents some of our favorite shops, products and services for the lovebugs on your list!

18 Help for Nuisance Barking Almost all dogs bark now and then.

At squirrels, the postal person, or just for joy at treat time. Some dogs however bark, and bark, and . . .

BARK. If that dog is your neighbor, the barking grows wearisome and even stressful. For those reluctant to confront the guardians, Multnomah County offers a gentle (anonymous if you choose) approach.

Rescue Me!

Handmade with love

Meet security specialist Rick Sanchez, who approaches family safety holistically. This time of year two big issues top his safety list:

Wintertime and the holidays pose unique safety risks, from décor and treats to heavy visitor traffic. For some too, it’s a time of high anxiety, which definitely affects the pets. Take good care of you and the babies for a safe memorable season.

8

28 Classifieds 24 crunchy little newsbits to chew on

6 Got a heart for rescue? Help Spot help! We need sponsors for our Rescue Me! animals, and for the FunPlanner, where we get the word out about organizations hosting events to boost their efforts in foster care, rescue, adoption outreach, and assistance with vet care and food. Details pg 6 or www.spotmagazine.net — click “Join Team Spot”

- Help boost Project POOCH — still alive in round 5!

- New pet food bank opens in Portland - Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon helps its 40,000th cat - Babies make great teachers . . . dummies too!

- OHS’s Harmon honored for community service

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SPOT MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2009

3

Jennifer McCammon Publisher w/ Lula & Scout Publisher@SpotMagazine.net

Magazzine Maga VOL. 5 • NO. 5 December 2009

Contributing Writers Jennifer DuMond-Biglan Jake Faris Vonnie Harris Camilla Mortensen Carly Morrish

Contributing Photographers Vonnie Harris Melissa Trajano-Williams

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

Jake Faris Features Editor w/ Buddy Jake@SpotMagazine.net

Advertising Jennifer McCammon Publisher

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.

Subscription Rates:

w/ Broadway

1 year $15; 2 years $25

Publisher@SpotMagazine.net

Spot Magazine PO Box 16667 Portland, OR 97292 Voice 503.261.1162 Fax 503.261.8945

Carly Morrish MarketPlace Advertising w/ Frank

Published monthly. Distributed from Vancouver to Eugene/Springfield & Sandy to Forest Grove. All rights reserved. Reproduction (whole or part) without permission prohibited.

Carly@SpotMagazine.net

© 2009 Living Out Loud Inc www.SpotMagazine.net

Administration

SPOT Magazine is printed in Portland, OR on recycled paper.

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

360.903.4174

Marnie McCammon

Pacific Northwest Pit Bull Rescue

Eugene/Springfield Office w/ Zip & foster kitten Gage SP

OT

MA

GAZ

INE & HOTEL

MO

N

CO

Marnie@SpotMagazine.net 541.741.1242

A

Name: Armani Breed: Chihuahua Age: He will be 1 year Dec. 10th and will be having a big pawty!

Family: Melissa & Josh Williams, Coco Chanel, Bubba, Bruno, Dolce and Lily Stomping grounds: He likes to play at Happy Valley Park.

Turn-ons: He loves hanging with Melissa at Paws for a Cause, the beautiful little boutique she manages in Troutdale, OR. He also likes picking on siblings.

Turn-offs: He hates when his siblings take his toys from him when he is playing with them!

January 7th , 2009 Hotel Monaco

Cover photo by Melissa Trajano-Williams

4 SPOT MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2009

Pet-Friendly First Thursday Social Hour

Mutt Mixers

Downtown PDX

Happy Endings Jennifer McCammon with Broadway

D

ecember is one of those months during the year when everything feels a little different, a little special. The holidays bring much magic while also upping the load and the pace thanks to seasonal to-do’s and get-togethers. For me December also brings a unique sense of duality: a mindfulness of the year coming to a close and the new one peeking over the horizon, a time for both reflection and anticipation.

Looking back, looking forward I know I’m in good company when I say it feels GOOD to lay oh-nine to rest. What a year! Tough. The

economy has bumped and battered so many people and businesses this year. Thankfully, week by week now, things are looking brighter.

One of the things I’ve appreciated about the rough-and-tumble trenches of ’09 is that it’s been a great sort of garden plot for creativity and innovation, courage, persistence and faith. While tough (and often un-fun), I still appreciate times that test our mettle —especially when I see myself and others rise to the challenge and stay energized as we try this, tweak that, and continue to believe in magic. Yes, I believe in Santa Clause, and I KNOW magic is real. Anyone who loves pets knows that!

I’m so thankful for the many treasured friends and associates who have walked alongside me through this challenging year.

Acting as sounding boards, cham-

pions, guides, and the best kind of friends — those who stick by you when it’s cold and dark, those who love you when you’re not at your shiniest. Thank you! You know who you are.

I’m also really thankful for and proud of all the great work we’ve done together this year in supporting rescue, adoption, spay/neuter, food and vet care. We’ve seen tough cases go home through Rescue Me!, funds raised for rescues and shelters at Mutt Mixers and other events, and helped boost attendance for the many organizations supporting pets in need in myriad ways.

If you haven’t already, I hope you’ll join Team Spot. We’re building a tough, passionate, get-thingsdone team that can really make a difference to the animals and those serving them. Check out page 6 this issue or www.SpotMagazine.net (go to “Join Team Spot”). If you

From the Publisher love Spot, this is your best way to show it in a very real way.

Finally, all of us at Spot thank you for a year that we’re closing with much appreciation for your affection and support, and for a year ahead that’s filled with promise. Oh! Be sure to circle the date — it’s time for the Top Dog Awards at last!

— we’ll celebrate the winning pet pros you voted for this year Jan. 7 at Hotel Monaco. The January issue of Spot will be your ‘bible’ for pet products and services, the next best thing to a referral from a friend for the Best in the Biz in Everything Pet in the Northwest. Get your copy, and please join us at the awards celebration!

Happy Holidays to us all.

Here’s to an oh-ten that’s truly a

10!

Spot works to save, improve and enhance pets’ lives through education, awareness & action.

We hear these two statements all the time: “I love this magazine!” and “I saw it in Spot.”

If you would like to help Spot support the NW Pet Community, please support Spot.

Here’s What We Do HELP Spot help. Spot supports pets, and those working on their behalf. We are continually developing new ways to maximize efforts and reduce redundancy in dealing with the myriad issues affecting pets: veterinary care, lost and found, rescue, spay/neuter (overpopulation) and more.

FIND homes. Spot’s Rescue Me! section features “hard cases” who need loving homes. These pets are often older, fragile, or have languished in a shelter much too long. Your contribution can get one more animal, or one more page of animals, into the hands of 47,000 prospective pet parents.

SUPPORT pet services. Many events listed in the Furry FunPlanner are hosted by organizations raising funds for their work in rescue, foster care, spay/neuter, food banks, adoption and more. Help Spot get the word out. Those who attend events —from dog washes to galas — have a good time, and boost the cause.

Here’s What You Can Do Join Team Spot

...

Here’s your gear!

Ankle Biters $25 - Listing in the Team Spot Roster Lil’ Pups $50 - Team Spot Bumper Sticker. Listing in Team Spot Roster Best Friends $150 - Team Spot T-shirt & Bumper Sticker. Listing with photo in Team Spot Roster Champions $500+ - Team Spot T-shirt & Bumper Sticker. Listing with photo in the Team Spot Roster.

Story or message at bottom or side of sponsored section. [ ] I want Spot Enews! Please sign me up. NAME / EMAIL__________________________________________________________________

Join Team Spot Here’s How

Call 503.261.1162, go to www.SpotMagazine.net and click on Join Team Spot, or complete this form and mail it, along with your contribution, to TEAM SPOT, PO Box 16667 Portland OR 97292.

NAME:_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS:___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ PHONE: ____________________________________EMAIL:___________________________________________________________________ • Contributions of any amount welcome; all contributors will be recognized in appreciation.

• Enews includes updates on Spot’s activities and partnerships. It’s also where you’ll find bulletins of community events at which Team Spot will gather (remember to wear your Tshirt!) for benefit walks and the like. Stay tuned and join the good work!

Thank you for supporting Spot!

Spot Magazine is a company of Living Out Loud, Inc., an Oregon C Corporation. At this time contributions are not tax-deductible.

6 SPOT MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2009

Meet Jack and Roxy Jack the big fat cat is living the life of Riley. This very laid-back guy lives in Tualatin with his beloved pack, including kids McKenna, Jake and Jadyn, mom Robyn, and pack-mate Roxy the Rhode Island Ridgeback (shown at left).

Robyn Martin, Tualatin OR

Meet Isabella Isabella Rossellini also has the life of Reilly at The Brews Brothers, a coffee shop in NE Portland. “People come into the shop just to hang out with Isabella Rossellini and play fetch with her,” says The Brews Brother co-owner, Gordon Landon. The Snowshoe Siamese was adopted from the Oregon Humane Society by Brews Brothers Darin and Gordon, who say she’s the most valuable employee at their shop. She comes home with the Brothers every night where she is a loved addition to the family.

Darin • Brews Bros. Coffee Shop, Portland Note: The Brews Bros. Coffee Shop is a longtime favorite of the Spot crew for small, informal meetings. The atmosphere, friendly folks and GREAT coffee and treats are all wonderful.

Isabella’s arrival made it even better. It’s great fun to watch this beautiful girl zip and zoom through the rooms, chasing a wadded-paper ball, sitting in beautiful repose between bouts.

She’s gorgeous and a joy! — the editor

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SPOT MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2009

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Yogurt

Lisbeth Who could resist this face? Lisbeth’s funky spots make her much more interesting than your average cat. She’s young, active and playful too. She’s a little shy, but with patience and love she’s going to make some lucky human one heck of a terrific companion. Come and be charmed by Lisbeth today!

8 SPOT MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2009

It’s a fact: yogurt is a good thing . . . so is Yogurt the cat! This wonderful fellow gets along with everyone (dogs too!).

He’s loving, sweet natured, likes an active household, and doesn’t even fuss about nail clipping! Look at his dreamy orange stripes and beautiful eyes . . . what a cutie.

Come meet Yogurt at CAT today.

Sponsor Me! Details www.SpotMagazine.net Team Spot

Lisbeth & Yogurt are at Cat Adoption Team 14175 SW Galbreath Dr. in Sherwood 503.925.8903 • catadoptionteam.org

T Magaz O P ine S

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The Winners Issue Like a referral from a trusted friend, Spot’s Best of the Best issue is the year’s ‘bible’ for quality pet companies, products and services. Readers use this issue all year long, delivering huge value in shelf-life! Being seen in this issue also means being seen in very good company: The Best of the Best!

Awards Celebration

January 7, 6-8pm Hotel Monaco Bring your best friend and let’s celebrate The Best of The Best!

To Advertise Call Jennifer McCammon 503.261.1162 email: publisher@spotmagazine.net or visit www.Spotmagazine.net

Ask about our Winners Issue Rates!

“Our sweetest songs are those that tell the saddest things” - Shelley

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360-989-7519 • caquinb@yahoo.com

• Ongoing Wednesday Night Support Group •

Warm & Affordable Dog Coats 530.385.1503 • www.baddogscoats.com

Made in U.S.A.

SPOT MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2009

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Stepping Stones Specializing in Custom Dog Stepping Stones and Pet Memorials including your pet's tags on the collar.

K-Dub Designs www.dogsteppingstones.com M a g a z in e

Recycled Collars & Leashes Made from reclaimed bike inner tubes Handmade in Portland, Oregon Available at specialty pet retailers www.cycledog.com • 503-318-8066

SuperSoft Ultra Pet Bed Comfy and Warm! Find this and other gift ideas for your pets at your local BI-MART store. Browse our pet beds, toys and other pet supplies. www.bimart.com

Pets and the Planet

by Carol Frischmann Available wherever books are sold.

Gifts for people... Gifts for pets Find Holiday Gifts for those you love at: ature We fe ecific p s d bree as Cards, ! tm fts Chris ts and Gi men a n r O

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10 SPOT MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2009

Pedi Paws - $19.99 Available at Davenport’s Den (The pet supply store located inside and benefiting the animals at Willamette Humane Society) 4246 Turner Rd. SE • Salem 503.585.5900 x315 www.WillametteHumane.org

Spa Treatment PRIVATE WHOLE SPA TREATMENT Blueberry Facial, Hot Oil Treatment, Massages. Freshbaked treats, massage, training, pet-walking and -sitting.

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Kitty Calendar The Purr-fect Stocking Stuffer from the Cat Adoption Team 2010 Calendar only $10. catadoptionteam.org

Goodies Presents and stocking stuffers for pets and people who love them. Gift baskets, toys, treats and pet scrapbook supplies. Affordable and shipped free.

Join our treat of the month club. Homemade and delicious.

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Twist ‘n Treat Pet Portraits A memorable gift for Hanukah, Christmas, or Valentine’s. An original oil painting of your beloved pet. Special holiday price: $150. Expires 2/28/2010.

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With your busy holiday to-do list, keep your pooch preoccupied with the Twist ’n Treat by Busy Buddies found at the Oregon Humane Society retail store.

Oregon Humane Society

Ohh La La! Toys, Accessories and Fashions that will put a wag in your dog’s tail LexiDog … for everything to spoil your dog for the Holidays!

LexiDog • lexidog.com

SPOT MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2009

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Safety

Disaster Preparedness:

HOME SAFE

Skip panicked scramble in emergency

BE PREPARED Jake Faris • Spot Magazine

W

hen planning for an emergency our imaginations can get carried away. Sometimes that’s a good thing. If Hurricane Katrina taught us one thing it’s that we can never really imagine the horrific realities wrought by natural disasters of such magnitude.

Learning from mistakes made during events like Katrina is important, especially in the Northwest, where an earthquake or tsunami could actually occur. All the more important considering how easy it is to dismiss the possibility of such events, given their rarity. It’s likely that if or when such an event did occur here, our guard would be down.

When it comes to preparedness, it’s vital to keep in mind that it doesn’t take a tsunami to wreak havoc on a family or community; mini-disasters can just as easily cause the loss or suffering of pets.

Rick Sanchez isn’t your typical pet expert, but as a security specialist with American Home Security he’s serious about his role in preparing homes and families for emergencies. “The vast majority of people I do home presentations with have pets,” he says. As pets have become bona fide family members, Sanchez has become expert on their safety as well as their people’s. As a “security specialist” Sanchez looks beyond basic precautions to encompass the needs of a family holistically. This time of year two big issues top his safety list: fire and carbon monoxide.

“Wintertime is awful for fires,” says Sanchez. While it might not be the first thing on people’s minds when evaluating a security system, Sanchez always recommends adding at least one smoke/heat detector to a monitored system. This provides added peace of mind for pet owners by creating a safety net for pets alone at home. A sign near exterior doors alerting emergency personnel to the type and number of pets in the home should be standard for every pet guardian. These are available at aspca.org. Also, if your security company has information about your pets they can pass it along when reporting a fire alarm.

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Portland, OR 503-626-8212 www.themuttleycrew.com

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12 SPOT MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2009

Sanchez cautions people who have double-keyed deadbolt locks. Without the lever on the inside of the door these deadbolts As a “security might seem more secure. But, as specialist” Sanchez he puts it, “People looks beyond basic have died because precautions to they couldn’t find the key.” encompass the needs “Fires are indisof a family holistically. criminate,” says This time of year two big Sanchez, which is why preparation is issues top his safety list: so important. Fire can strike anywhere, anytime.

Colder weather also bumps carbon monoxide (CO) to the top of Sanchez’s list. Invisible and odorless, Sanchez says, “It’s not smoke.” Different combustion appliances produce CO, and all it takes is a faulty exhaust vent or a BBQ too close to an open door to sicken or kill. “All animals are exquisitely susceptible to carbon monoxide,” says Dr. Heidi Houchen, a blood and toxins expert at Northwest Veterinary Specialists in Clackamas. Houchen related a case last winter when a Great Dane sitting too close to a propane heater succumbed to CO poisoning.

How to prevent this silent killer from sneaking into your house? While a monitor that sounds an alarm if CO levels become too high is better than nothing, Sanchez prefers the monitors that provide a digital readout of actual CO levels, available at most hardware stores.

If you don’t have a CO detector yet, symptoms to beware of include sudden flu-like symptoms striking people and pets in the same area.

Because CO is heavier than other atmospheric gasses, pets and kids — closer to the floor than their adult human counterparts — are most susceptible to poisoning. According to Dr. Houchen the best treatment for CO poisoning is pure oxygen. It can take at least four hours of taking in normal air to rid a body of CO buildup.

fire and carbon monoxide.

• Tough tape, nylon leash, soft muzzle, Along with emergency services and critiextra bottled water, scissors, tweezers, cal care, NWVS provides pet guardians with flashlight. emergency education. The company’s Pet Emergency Handbook is a small booklet • Skunk spray. “People can take care of of common first aid procedures dealing with it at home as long as they know the everything from abdominal pain to skunk eyes are unaffected,” says the doctor, spray, and is available free for the asking. adding that if taking a skunk victim to Its comprehensive pages include emergency the vet, call first. contact numbers, typical canine and feline • Needlenose pliers are good to have vital signs, and other essentials. in porcupine country, but should be Houchen is part of the NWVS Emergency used only when a vet’s office is too far Education Team as a CPR/First Aid instrucaway. tor (the 2010 class schedule will be available * A stethoscope is a great diagnostic tool soon). Also a member of the Oregon Vet even for the pet owner.

Emergency Response Team, Dr. Houchen knows firsthand the importance of emer* Dawn dishwashing detergent is a great gency preparedness. To avoid a panicked decontaminate. Use it with warm water scramble in emergencies she recommends & rinse several times. Says Houchen, keeping a kit containing the following, ideally “It’s under my sink and it’s in my first in a box or bag: aid kit.”

• Hand towel or maxi A sign near exterior doors alerting pad for lacerations.

“It’s an awesome emergency personnel to the bandage,” says type and number of pets in the Houchen. “A maxi home should be standard for pad held on with a towel is great for every pet guardian. emergency.”

• Soft muzzle or simple restraint techniques. One method Houchen teaches uses nylons looped around the nose and back of head as an improvised restraint. This can be lifesaving in a situation where you might be injured and unable to help your pet.

• A high- or medium-thickness towel can be used as a blanket or stretcher.

• Plywood scrap for a sturdier stretcher.

• Cardboard or thickly-wrapped newspaper can provide an improvised splint.

• Bottled saline (contact solution) is great for flushing wounds or eyes.

If CPR is needed, remember that new guidelines urge uninterrupted chest compressions. “Keep doing chest compressions until you get to the hospital,” says Houchen.

Which brings us to the simplest step everyone can and should take: basic first aid.

Classes for pet and people first aid abound in the Northwest, offered by folks ranging from the Red Cross to individuals like Jenee Bader, First Aid Fido, who travels throughout the Willamette Valley conducting classes at retail pet shops and even community centers. Anyone looking for a first aid class should check the FunPlanner, www.SpotMagazine.net, or your neighborhood pet merchant. Classes are typically affordable, and available almost every month of the year.

Jake Faris is a freelance writer who’s worn many different hats, including a hardhat and the 8-point hat of a police officer. Jake and his wife Charity live with their two cats and four dogs in Beaverton. The whole pack moved to Portland from Wenatchee, WA three years ago. Now a dedicated Oregonian, Jake finds new reasons to love his adopted state every day. Contact him at jake@spotmagazine.net

Wishing you safe and Happy Holidays ~ from all of us!

SPOT MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2009

13

Safety

Holiday Helpers

Be Mindful of Seasonal Hazards Vonnie Harris • Spot Magazine

I

n the magic and chaos of the holiday season, it’s easy to forget important safety precautions for our animals.

Here is the bark on things to keep in mind to prevent festivities from taking a tragic turn.

The Tree Whether live or artificial, for pets, the tree can be one huge toy rack. Low hanging baubles, glittery strings and shiny lights can be irresistible. Place only unbreakable, non-toxic decorations on lower limbs. Long, stringy things are a feline’s dream, so be extra mindful of loose ribbons. Experts suggest avoiding tinsel or angel hair of any sort altogether. Tinsel, made from metal, and angel hair, made from glass, can cause life-threatening digestive obstructions and serious internal damage.

To prevent the pooch from having too good a time rocking around the Christmas tree or the cat climbing it, tether it to the ceiling or wall. Use a sturdy metal base and block access (baby gates work well).

It may seem like a step up from toilet water, but the tree’s water may contain toxic fertilizers and/or bacteria.

Wrap the base with screens, foil or a tree skirt.

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Tape down or cover cords and unplug all decorations when you’re away. Before plugging in, inspect cords and wires for damage that could pose a fire hazard. Birds, cats and dogs like to nibble and chew. Many holiday plants are toxic, including holly, mistletoe and some poinsettias. Give thought to holiday greenery and keep all out of your pet’s reach.

Candles call for extreme care. Cats wandering too closely, birds lured by the flame, happy, swinging dogs’ tails — all spell potential disaster. Use hurricane lanterns or other attractive covers and never leave candles unattended with pets.

Food A dog’s nose knows food, even when wrapped. A gift of chocolate under the tree is a perfect opportunity for the dog to “open before Xmas.” Holiday treats, especially chocolate, should be kept out of reach.

Our animal friends can’t discriminate whether something is good or bad for them. As tempting as it is, avoid sharing food scraps or more than tiny amounts of new food. Sudden dietary changes can cause reactions from mild to catastrophic. As much as possible, maintain your pet’s normal eating and exercise routines.

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14 SPOT MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2009

Décor

Discourage well-intentioned guests from feeding inappropriate foods to your pets. Fatty foods like poultry skins and beef fat can cause pancreatitis, which can kill. Bones can splinter, break, and cause severe injury.

Festivities With all the hubbub and arrivals and departures, conditions are ideal for an accidental escape. Make sure you know where your pets are at all times.

The best plan is to keep them secure in a quiet area of the house where they will stay safe and calm.

A woof about New Year’s Noisy firecrackers terrify and even severely traumatize some pets. Leave pets securely inside if you go out. And while fun, strings of confetti can get lodged in little intestines and cause blockage.

Just like humans, pets can get stressed by holiday happenings, especially if you yourself are frazzled.

Give them as much as or more attention than usual so they don’t feel neglected and act out. Why not plan some special time with your babies to treat yourself and them during this hectic time? An extra trip to the dog park or game of tug can do wonders for you both.

Vonnie Harris is a freelance writer, and operator of BowWows & Meows Pet Services of SW WA. She and her brood, Jake and Jessie, both yellow Labs, and parrots Pedro (Yellow-Nape Amazon) and Lorali (African Grey) reside in Vancouver. Vonnie also is “the face of Spot” at many Portland-area pet-related events. Contact her at vonnie@spotmagazine.net.

Fire at Eugene’s Zany Zoo — losses less than feared, recovery in progress Camilla Mortensen • Spot Magazine

Z

any Zoo Pets in Eugene was a smoke-filled scene of devastation in the early hours of Nov. 6th after a fire broke out in the reptile room of the store — which was filled with creatures ranging from exotic snakes to puppies. In the aftermath of the flames, it appeared nearly 100 animals had perished. Zany Zoo co-owner Nate McClain was devastated to see “the culmination of five years of 24-hour hard work” in shambles. The cause of the fire is not yet known, he says. Despite early reports that the reptiles’ heaters had overloaded a circuit, McClain said the heaters were drawing less current than a refrigerator would.

As McClain began sorting through the chaos, he learned things were not as bad as they first seemed; there were more survivors than originally thought. Firefighters had managed to save almost half the reptiles in the room where the fire started. Four puppies — three small mixed-breed dogs and one Chihuahua — were all safe, as were a of couple of cats being boarded.

The store sells both exotic and domestic pets. They strive, according to their website, to help people make educated decisions not only about what kind of pet will best fit their family, but to educate people about proper care.

In total, the small family-owned store lost about half of its 56 reptiles to the fire, plus 15 parakeets, two cockatiels and a canary to smoke inhalation. One tank of feeder rats died, but according to McClain, “everyone else was fine.” All the petting zoo animals survived, including an 80 lb. tortoise, a coati (kind of a Central American raccoon, says McClain), sugar glidHelp keep your pets safe with a free ers and two Maras, giant pet safety pack from the ASPCA. In the rodents. One of the Maras event of an emergency, the pet rescue was found to have jumped window decal alerts rescue personnel out of its cage during the that pets are inside your home. The fire, but firefighters found safety pack also includes an ASPCA the giant rodent “walking Animal Poison Control Center magnet around through the rubble,” — a great way to keep the APCC’s McClain said. toll-free emergency number and web The shop has been presaddress handy. Details aspca.org. sure washed, and smokedamaged cages scrubbed or replaced. McLain says, “No income for two weeks has made it difficult to get funding for new cages.”

McClain is delighted so many of his animals survived and says thanks to “a huge response from the community” — 90-95 percent of the pets are currently in foster homes. The animals are spread all over town, he says, and he checks in on them almost daily.

Right now McClain’s primary focus is getting the store up and running again. He expects to be open in a new location before Christmas.

The community has continued to help Zany Zoo get on its feet, with a fundraising dinner at a local pizza restaurant. If you’d like to help, donations can be made to the Zany Zoo fund at any Oregon Community Credit Union.

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SPOT MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2009

15

Get Creative

Birds NEED toys Birds LOVE to destroy toys How to keep their toybox full without walloping your wallet Vonnie Harris • Spot Magazine

they enjoy themselves. An added bonus is the enlightenment I get watching them revel in the moment of a found prize. I rarely buy expensive toys. I learned long ago that for my dogs, a stick, a tennis ball or a balled up sock is just as prized.

T

he sun peeked out briefly this afternoon, so I decided to take my two furry friends on a much-deserved excursion to the river. I grabbed my keys and loaded the thrilled mutts into the car. In my haste I forgot “the ball” — the toy we always take along. Turns out I needn’t have worried. My big guy immediately glommed onto a knotty stick

My parrots are another story. that sent him into a frenzy of digging to the center of something. My little girl discovered a semi-deflated balloon snagged on a branch just

For years I have tied a knot in a paper towel sheet with or without a nut inside the knot.

My Amazon gnaws on them happily for hours. out of reach. She jumped and lunged in crazed excitement to get at it.

The thing about dogs is it doesn’t take much to entertain them. In fact, as long as I’m there engaging in their play

16 SPOT MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2009

While they love spending time with me, I can’t always cart one around while tending to daily activities. Studies indicate that parrots have the mental capacity of three-year-old children, which is to say they are intelligent creatures.

Birds and especially parrots need quite a bit more stimulation than dogs. That’s not to say dogs are less smart than birds. For whatever reason dogs are just more easily amused, easier to please . . . a stick, a half-deflated balloon and your affection are more than enough for a GREAT afternoon.

Not so with our feathered friends. Birds need an active environment to compel them to use their brains and keep them enthused and healthy.

Birds will destroy their toys faster than you can replace them, so retail toys can be a tall order for a tight budget. Another challenge is the discovery that your bird has zero interest in the brand new toy you just bought for him.

The key is incorporating your birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite things into his or her toys. Birds love to forage, chew and shred. Every bird is different. Pedro, my Amazon girl, likes to gnaw and crunch. Lorali, my African Grey, prefers to swing, bang bells and tear things into tiny pieces. Taking the time to figure out what your bird enjoys is the biggest step in creating homemade toys he or she will love.

Ellen Gyberg of Vancouver, WA has 19 birds, mostly smaller, and makes all of their toys. She also makes toys for the birds at the Oregon Humane Society. A former president of a bird rescue in the San Francisco area,

Key ingredients for homemade bird toys include inexpensive items such as beads, popsicle sticks, string, rope, woven baskets and wooden craft pieces.

continued pg 26

All natural products used in grooming Core strengthening and pilate classes for dogs Obedience and puppy training 7660 SW Barbur Blvd 503-2GO-DOGS(246-3647) www.playandchase.com

SPOT MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2009

17

Barking busting your neighborhood’s luster?

Multnomah County Bark Control to the Rescue!

Carly Morrish • Spot Magazine

‘T

is the season to be a good DOGGY neighbor! As we pet lovers know, dogs and barking just go hand in hand. A dog barking at the occasional squirrel in their yard or cat in a window isn’t something that usually causes friction among neighbors. Problems can arise, however, when a dog’s barking becomes so constant that it changes the neighborhood from relaxed and friendly to tense and exhausting.

Dogs living in urban and suburban settings have very different roles than those of farm or sled dogs. Neighborhood or apartment dwellers need to be sufficiently calm and controlled in order to live in peace with human housemates and neighbors. The experts at Multnomah County Animal Services (MCAS) know that some pet guardians need a little reminder that being a respectful neighborly family includes respectful behavior from the dog as well as the people.

Because every guardian is not a trained animal behaviorist, some may have trouble pinpointing why their dog is barking in the first place. Dogs bark for many reasons. Stanley Corence wrote in his book, How to Speak Dog — Mastering the Art of Dog-Human Communication, that a barking dog can be communicating many things. He stresses the importance of distinguishing different forms of canine communication in order to find a solution. This can often be achieved by simply examining the dog’s daily life to determine what might be missing.

Even if an owner understands why their dog is barking they may still not know how to control it. Some people assume that because dogs are meant to bark there is really nothing they can do, opting to not even deal with the situation. Some may not even realize that the barking is bothering others. In some cases “bothering” is an understatement. Problem barkers can deprive neighbors of sleep, disrupt a special patio gathering, and generally diminish a neighborhood’s luster.

Many dread the prospect of approaching neighbors about their beloved pet being a nuisance. Thanks to MCAS, in Multnomah County, there’s help — of a kind that places a

18 SPOT MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2009

premium on preserving the comfort and joy of you, your neighbor, and the dog.

MCAS’s service starts with a prewritten letter of concern that can be viewed, downloaded and printed (http://www.co.multnomah.or.us/ dbcs/pets/barking.shtml). The letter can then be mailed to the neighbor (with or without your return address to allow anonymity if desired/needed).

The letter states a general concern about an animal noise nuisance and is a great way to

inform the barking dog’s guardian that there is a problem without going to the next level of filing a petition with the city. Accompanying the letter is information on the many issues related to persistent barking — from fears to social isolation and protective behavior. It contains valuable behavioral explanations and problemsolving tactics to help the responsible guardian correct the situation. Most importantly, the service is a great way to keep our goofy, four-legged pals in their rightful place: right here at home!

Carly Morrish is a recent college graduate and a lifelong animal enthusiast. Her college years included raising her Bernese Mountain Dog, Frank, and working as a dog handler.

Carly is a native of Toronto, Canada and a recent import from Minnesota. Since relocating to Portland last year, Frank and Carly have been volunteering as an animal-assisted therapy team. She recently joined the Spot team and can’t wait to dive into the pet-friendly Northwest culture even further.

Our yard and street are full of snow, It frosts our window pane.

Some crystals fall from clouds on high, Before they turn to rain.

The neighborhood is full of lights, Which glow upon the snow.

The cars are parked; the streets are still, All places you could go.

And in our house the fire’s lit, To warm the home with heat.

About the author

Before Christmas

Willem Kingsbury Isenberg (15) lives with his parents and younger sister “out in the country in Northern Idaho.”

No pets, but the family has three barn cats and enjoys watching deer, moose, wild turkey, and elk roam across their property.

When not sitting in a darkened room writing poetry, Willi’s mom says he is analyzing Greek mythology, studying Latin, running cross country, acting in the school play, competing on the Knowledge Bowl team, and organizing fundraising events as class president. Willi has already earned many awards for his poetry, including the Poet Laureate Award, May 2006, at Logos School, and many best-ofs at the Latah County Fair 2007, ’08 and ’09. We look forward to many more great works from this young talent.

The fridge is full of Christmas food And tasty things to eat.

The kids are in the living room At rest in sleeping bags.

The dog is sound asleep but still His tail sedately wags.

The Christmas tree is clad in gold While standing tall and straight.

The gifts are lying underneath: For thankful hands they wait.

Amid the snowy, frosted street, The savory feast and tree, Amid the golden Christmas gifts, The best is family. © 2009 Willem K. Isenberg

“We’ll be there… … for you and the companion you love”

8976 SW Tualatin Sherwood Road Tualatin, OR 97062 • (503) 885-2211 • www.DignifiedPetServices.com SPOT MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2009

19

Lost and Found

Miracle

on C Street (A true miracle that actually happened) Diana Ralph • Spot Magazine

M

y 81-year-old “young” aunt Maggie lives in a small tourist town — an old silver mining town high on a hill. Since my uncle passed away 11 years ago she has lived alone with her two best friends, Kapu and Tony, small Lhaso mix dogs. In her Christmas photo card to me a few years ago she wrote: “These are the reasons I get up in the morning.”

Tony, the younger of the two, has always been too curious for his own good, trying to get beyond Maggie’s yard whenever he can. Friends installed a secure fence to keep him in while giving him freedom.

My aunt often enjoys sitting on her wrap-around porch with her coffee in the morning, or her martini in the afternoon, while the dogs run the yard and watch the many passersby.

One afternoon Maggie came home, let the dogs out, and went in to fix lunch. She sat on her usual side of the porch eating, confident the dogs were exploring the yard and fulfilling their role as greeters. Readying to go inside, she called them. Kapu came, but Tony didn’t. Upon investigation, Maggie found a parcel had been delivered and that the front gate had been left open — out of view from her spot on the porch.

Tony had escaped.

Witnesses reported seeing a man pick Tony up, get into a vehicle and leave town.

One witness thought the car had California plates.

For my aunt, this was a nightmare; these dogs are her world. Wonderful friends and neighbors helped in every way they could . . .

In her Christmas photo card to me a few years ago she wrote: “These are the

reasons I get up in the morning.” posting flyers EVERYWHERE . . . all over California, Oregon and Nevada, since the stranger’s whereabouts were unknown.

Ignoring pain from arthritis and back problems, my aunt walked the town put-

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20 SPOT MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2009

ting flyers on tourist vehicles every day. We also blanketed the state of California with postcards, posters and flyers for about a month. Every day we called veterinarians’ offices, groomers, shelters, etc. My aunt and I, along with her grown grandchildren, stayed with it . . . even though we became very discouraged at times and considered giving up. But something within me wouldn’t let me. So, encouraging each other, we kept going . . . often thinking and even crying out, “What more can we do?” Many friends were praying. God DOES care about us and about our pets.

The sheriff’s department in Maggie’s county did an amazing job of “protecting and serving.” They were extraordinary! They finally were able to track down the man who had taken Tony, and connected with the California

County Sheriff’s Dept. in which he lived (it was a California plate!). Sheriffs persuaded the man to deliver Tony to a nearby police substation where we could retrieve him and finally take him home.

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I believe it took five years off my aunt’s life to have Tony missing those five endless weeks. Tony was affected, too; it was several days before he was back to his usual self.

The day we got him back felt kind of cloak-and-dagger exciting.

At least to Maggie. We had gotten word that Tony would be taken to the police substation at 4 pm that day. My husband and I were working around the house when my aunt called at noon, saying Tony needed to be picked up before 5 when they closed. We were five hours away. We threw together overnight bags and were on the road by 12:15.

Maggie leans down to whisper to her preKnowing we wouldn’t cious Tony during his first day home. make the 5 o’clock deadline, we enlisted help from a friend who lived near the substation. She picked Tony up and took him to her home. I had strict instructions to call my aunt the minute I had Tony in my “hot little hands.” I did, and we also emailed a photo taken on my husband’s phone. When she answered my call I said, “Aunt Maggie, go look at your email!” It was such an emotional time for both of us since we had literally worked all day every day these long five weeks to find him. Neither of us could believe we finally had him back.

We are so grateful for the prayers, for the good people at the Sheriff’s Dept., and for all the efforts by Maggie’s many friends and grandchildren.

Maggie tried to convey to the delivery company the misery and heartache this situation caused her . . . not to mention the financial

About Diana and Maggie

Diana joyfully holds Tony at the “very emotional moment in the adventure” when she finally “got her hot little hands” on him. Tony is still a little bewildered from his ordeal. At left is a smiling Carole, the friend who beelined it to the substation to get Tony before closing time.

expense. Through the ordeal my aunt learned that this was a common complaint: that reps from delivery, utility and other companies often pass through gates and do not leave the property the way they found it. My aunt worries about this now more than ever, thinking of the danger this could also pose to young children. The one to two seconds it would have taken to close that gate would have saved Maggie a month of misery and approximately $2500 in search and rescue fees (which the parcel company would not reimburse though they admitted error).

If you ever “rescue” a pet running loose, PLEASE do your best to find the owner. You never know how much that pet might be missed and how much the guardian might grieve his or her loss. May aunt and I are really thankful to the man who took Tony, especially that he finally did the right thing. If we knew who he was, we would express it directly to him (after a wee bit of a lecture). ;-) There is nothing but gratitude for Tony’s safe homecoming — the Miracle on C Street! See Tony’s rescue photos at www.photoarticulations .ifp3.com. Go to the gallery called Tony’s Return.

Diana’s aunt Maggie lives in Virginia City, NV, was a elected county official for four terms, and works on contract (at home) for the county today. Diana used to raise Kyi-Leo Lhaso mix dogs and had given Maggie Kapu and Tony. Married years, Maggie lost her husband Willard years ago. She has two grown sons who live away, so her dogs are her constant

companions. She is active in her community and has many good friends.

Diana lives on the Central Coast of California. Married years, Diana and her husband have two sons, nine grandchildren, and a grandchild and great-grandchild on the way. She teaches yearbook and photography at a private school. No longer raising puppies, the Ralphs’ two canine girls are older now.

It’s a beautiful thing.

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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

| DECEMBER 2009

21

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

Training Goal: Glue that doggie’s butt to the ground! Teach your dog to sit calmly as guests enter your home for the holidays.

Training Step #1 The Sit

Teach your dog to greet your holiday guests with four paws firmly on the ground!

Bring two cans of “people” food and receive a $10 discount on all adoption fees in December!

Ask most pet parents if their dog can sit, and the answer is a resounding yes! Of course they can sit, but do they really understand the cue “sit?” In other words, do they respond quickly to the cue no matter where you are or what is going on? Test your dogs’ skills.

Stand completely still (so you are using your voice to cue your dog and not any hand or body signals (unless that is what you have purposely taught), and ask your dog to sit. Does he? If the answer is yes, give yourself a cookie and then test the following: 1. Responds quickly with one cue, “Sit,” not after several cues “Sit, sit, sit?”

2. Responds quickly regardless of whether you are standing, sitting or lying down when you cue them?

3. Responds quickly in at least 20 different locations? In your house? Back yard? Front yard?

PetsMart? Friends’ house? Dog or local park? Training class? If there is another dog present?

If your dog does not have a solid Sit, your focus for the first week of training will be the following: 1. Carry training rewards with you at all times. (Training reward ideas: Ziwi Peak dog food, Red Barn dog food roll, Wellness

Bites, Real Meat jerky treats, Zukes training rewards, cheese, cooked chicken breast) 2. Reinforce every time your dog puts his butt on the ground, whether you cued him or he offered it on his own.

Training Step #2 The Long Sit Start training by the front door, ideally where you would like your dog to sit when guests arrive.

Gather your dog, on or off leash, and several pea-sized training rewards (cooked chicken breast, cheese, or other high-value rewards are ideal for most dogs).

Cue or wait for your dog to sit.

When he does say “yes” or “good” and reward, then count to one or two — if he is still sitting reward again, count to one or three, and if he’s still sitting reward again and then give a release cue (“release,” “free,” “all done,” or “okay” work fine). Repeat this process, gradually increasing the amount of time between treats.

Always remember to reward while your dog is still sitting and to release him before he gets up.

Training Step #3 Adding Guests Once your dog will easily sit until he is released by the front door recruit some friends to help you practice your new sitting skills.

For a longer version of this lesson, including problem-solving tips, e-mail jen@dogandcat.org.

Jennifer Biglan is a certified pet dog trainer and owner of Dog & Cat, LLC Training & Behavior Modification services in Eugene, OR. 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.

22 SPOT MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2009

True heart-shaped tale not to be missed Vonnie Harris • Spot Magazine

J

ust in time for the holidays, a wrenching true story with a beautiful ending — born out of the ugliness of a war zone. In Nubs, The True Story of a Mutt, a Marine & a Miracle we get to know (and come to love) a U.S. Marine and the dog he bonded with while serving in Iraq. The book contains everything dog lovers look for: love, loyalty, hope, compassion, bravery and the perseverance of a scrappy little dog who would not give up.

Nubs, so-named because his ears had been cut off to “make him a dog of war,” had every reason not to trust or even like people — but he did. With no person to call his own,

Nubs was the leader of a pack of wild dogs, living a hard life, fighting for scraps and barely surviving harsh conditions.

Then he met Marine Major Brian Dennis. The two had an instant connection, made stronger by Dennis’s quickness to share belly rubs, meals (including the occasional strawberry Pop-Tart), a warm place to sleep and care of a kind Nubs had never before received.

Nubs quickly bonded with Dennis’s team, attempting to follow their rigs when they departed on brief missions, greeting them joyfully when they returned. When Dennis and his men were called to the Jordanian border over 70 miles away, Nubs was not ready for his new friend to go. Unaware that dogs were not allowed to stay in camps, Nubs followed, this time crossing the desert in brutal winter conditions, arriving thin, gaunt and worse for wear at the command fort, meeting the open arms of an amazed group of soldiers.

A dog enduring the hardship of such a trek would not be given up so easily. At least not by Dennis, who launched the Save Nubs Fund to raise the money needed, and arranging the people and transportation to get Nubs to Dennis’ home in San Diego.

Written by Dennis, Kirby Larson and Mary Nethery, this colorfully packaged tale features scrapbookstyle photos and emails documenting Nubs’ awe-inspiring actions, the challenges he endured, and the amazing friendship that blossomed between Nubs and Dennis. This heartwarming and inspiring book will touch readers of all ages.

As an avid animal lover, this powerful little book made me smile, moved me to tears, and truly demonstrated what Dennis told Paw Nation: “If you are kind to someone, they will never forget you — be it person or animal.”

Introducing

by Spot Magazine Marke

We train

your dog your servi to ce animbecome al

Vonnie Harris is a freelance writer, and operator of BowWows & Meows Pet Services of SW WA. She and her brood, Jake and Jessie, both yellow Labs, and parrots Pedro (Yellow-Nape Amazon) and Lorali (African Grey) reside in Vancouver. Vonnie also is “the face of Spot” at many Portland-area pet-related events. Contact her at vonnie@spotmagazine.net.

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CERTIF IED DOG INSTUR CTOR DOGS FOR dogsca THE DISAB www.do use@yahoo.cLED gswitha om 683-2793 cause.com • 954-10 66

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CERTIF IED DOG INSTUR CTOR DOGS FOR dogsca THE DISAB www.do use@yahoo.cLED gswitha om 683-2793 cause.com • 954-10 66

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Where there’s a spot for everybody! see page 28

SPOT MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2009

23

Project POOCH — still alive in round 5!

Project POOCH is in the “final 4” of celebrity chef and TV personality Rachael Ray’s canine competition, Mutt Madness. Every week Project POOCH remains in the competition it earns $1000.

Modeled after the NCAA March Madness, voters select their favorite shelter each week, with contenders moving to the next round each week (or not). Top prize is $50,000; second prize is $25,000. Vote today and help Project POOCH reach the semifinals: go to rachaelray.com/pets/ muttmadness/index.php, log in and register, click on the POOCH panel, and click on “vote.”

For over 15 years, Project POOCH has successfully paired at-risk shelter dogs with incarcerated youth at the MacLaren Correctional Facility in Woodburn, OR. The youth train the “death row” dogs and prepare them for healthy, happy lives in forever homes. The youth learn patience, responsibility and compassion. The dogs get a second chance and a loving family. Details pooch.org.

New pet food bank opens The Pongo Fund Pet Food Bank celebrated its grand opening last month at 910 NE MLK Jr Blvd, near the Convention Center in Portland. The program launched with a great leg up: food donations from Canidae All Natural Pet Foods ($125,000) and Dogswell ($75,000).

On opening day, the Spot crew saw founder Larry Chusid in high spirits as he moved through the spacious, tidy space donated for the food bank, which appeared

24 SPOT MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2009

T

he Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon (FCCO) helped its 40,000th cat last month. The sweet boy is a 4-month-old little brown Tabby who was taken in to the Portland spay/ neuter clinic. The milestone kitty is a third-generation feral from a mill in Estacada. Five others from his colony have also been spayed/neutered, and the caregivers are determined to get the remaining two to a clinic as soon as possible.

The goal of the FCCO program is to reduce suffering for existing feral cats and prevent the births and suffering of future generations. The program’s services are targeted to feral cats who have caregivers feeding them. The caregivers trap the cats, take them to a clinic, then return the cats to where they are being fed — with a commitment to feeding them permanently. To learn more visit www.xxx.org

organized, well-staffed by smiling volunteers, loaded with pet food, and appointed with furnishings and supplies designed for efficient traffic flow and client comfort.

“It was a great day; we provided high-quality food for 119 companion pets,” said Chusid.

“The need is so great . . . I’m glad we’re all able to help.”

Dedicated to providing quality

dog and cat food for the animals of anyone in need, The Pongo Fund is focused on protecting companion animals from being abandoned or surrendered because their families can’t afford to feed them. The pet food bank is open every second and fourth Sunday, noon-3pm; food is provided first-come, firstserved while supplies last. Details www.thepongofund.org.

Babies make great teachers . . . dummies too!

SignArt HD Media of Hood River has released three new DVDs featuring rescued baby animals and has also launched a new website under the Kids Pet Farm brand, www.kidspetfarm.com.

Designed to teach responsib pet guardianship, how to reduc animal suffering and how to fos a green planet, the new DVDs, including Kitten Around, Cat astrophe and Puppy Luv, feature the antics of baby animals in their natural environments. Narration is provided by a real dummy, Rex, and ventriloquist/creator Dayna Reed.

In addition to teaching the aforementioned themes, Rex and Dayna’s ventriloquism routine encourages adoption of rescued animals. Animal actors are all rescues themselves, and fittingly, a portion of the sale of each DVD goes to local shelters. All animals featured in the newest titles have been adopted.

mmunity service

Original music soundtracks accompany the action in a variety of styles, made all the sweeter by the voices of the babies at play.

Each DVD features four families of baby animals introduced by name, who go on to entertain with a full hour of natural frolic, jump and play.

Coming segments, featuring baby ferrets, horses, alpacas, goats, lambs, birds, lizards, fish and more, are scheduled for release this spring. For details or to order, visit www.kidspetfarm.com or www.amazon.com.

n Humane Society Executive Director Sharon was recently honored as “an individual who a significant impact on the community using elations strategies and tactics” and awarded Ron Schmidt Community Involvement Award from the Portland Metro Chapter, Public Relations Society of America.

Harmon was recognized for her involvement in the community, her dedication to helping animals in need, and her vision in completing two capital campaigns that resulted in the construction of a 40,000 square-foot shelter in 1999 and an adjoining 22,000 square-foot Animal Medical Learning Center in 2007.

“The real winner is our community,” said Harmon, who began working at OHS in 1989 as the director of operations. “Our community’s compassion and support for animals is very real — it makes possible everything we do for animals in need.”

Author offers free greeting cards and chance to help Sarah Ashwood of Victoria Canada, author of The Dark Forgotten series which began with Ravenous (Feb 09) and continues with Scorched (Dec 09), has created a line of alternative greeting cards that, when downloaded, translate to a 54-cent donation by Ashwood to the Greater Victoria Animal Crusaders (GVAC), an all-volunteer organization with no facility costs as client animals reside in foster homes while awaiting adoption.

The cards’ messages are related to the author’s specialty, paranormal romance. One says, “Chestnuts SCORCHED on an open fire. Hell hounds nibbling at your nose . . . Here’s hoping your Christmas is fiendishly merry!”

All donations help defray veterinary costs for GVAC’s injured pets.

Once an animal’s needs/expenses are met, funds are allocated to another dog or cat. The author says she settled on 54 cents because it’s the current cost for a Canadian first-class postage stamp.

Download Ashwood’s cards at www.SharonAshwood.com. To learn more about GVAC visit animalcrusaders.ca.

SPOT MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2009

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Advertiser Directory ADOPTION / RESCUE Multnomah County Animal Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 APPAREL bad dogs canine coats . . . . . . . . . . 9 BOARDING / DAYCARE Cooper Mountain Kennel . . . . . . . . 7 Countryside Pet Spa . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Critter Comfort ‘N Care . . . . . . . . 20 Fetch Pet Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Laurel Acres Kennels . . . . . . . . . . 14 Muttley Crew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Play & Chase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Rock Creek Kennels . . . . . . . . . . 19 CREMATION / MEMORIALS Dignified Pet Services . . . . . . . . . 19 Picture Perfect Pooch . . . . . . . . . 15 DAYCARE / PET SITTING Bow Wows & Meows . . . . . . . . . . 28 Critter Comfort ‘N Care . . . . . . . . 20 Doggie Dilemma Pet Care . . . . . . 20 Muttley Crew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Play & Chase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 DOG WASH/SPA Happy Tails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Pet Bath & Beyond . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 EVENTS Top Dog Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 GIFTS K-Dub Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Cycle Dog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 BiMart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Pets & the Planet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Pet Bath & Beyond . . . . . . . . . 10-11 LexiDog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Cat Adoption Team . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Idyllic Beach House . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Oregon Humane . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Willamette Humane . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Kenleigh’s Fiber Studio . . . . . . . . 11 Portraits by Elizabeth Chadwick . . 11 GIFTS / FASHION / SPECIALTY Baby Animal DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 bad dogs canine coats . . . . . . . . . . 9 Bi-Mart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Howl at the Moon . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Picture Perfect Pooch . . . . . . . . . 15

26 SPOT MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2009

GRIEF COUNSELING Companion Pet Grief Couseling . . . 9 GROOMING Cooper Mountain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Countryside Pet Spa . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Muttley Crew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Play & Chase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 HEALTH & WELLNESS Back on Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Paws Aquatics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 HOTELS Fireside Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 PET FOOD / SUPPLIES Bi-Mart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Muttley Crew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Snowfire Farm — distributor of healthy pet foods . . . . . . . . . 13 Solid Gold NW Holistic Products for Pets . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Wellness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 PRODUCTS bad dogs canine coats . . . . . . . . . . 9 Howl at the Moon . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Kenleigh Acres Fiber Studio . . . . . 28 SCRAPBOOKING Picture Perfect Pooch . . . . . . . . . 15 SERVICE ANIMALS Dogs with a Cause . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 SOCIAL / PET NETWORKING pdxdog.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Team Spot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SPAY/NEUTER Lane County Animal Services Pet Spay/Neuter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 TRAINING Dogs with a Cause . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Play & Chase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 VACATION RENTALS Idyllic Beach House . . . . . . . . . 9,28 VETERINARIANS / VET HOSPITALS Back on Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Best Friends Veternary MC . . . . . 25 Cascade Veterinary Referral Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Good Neighbor Vet . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Rose City Vet Hospital . . . . . . . . . 21

Birds need toys continued from pg 17

Gyberg is dedicated to helping birds live longer, healthier lives and educating people on proper bird care. “I used to volunteer at the humane society but it was too heart-breaking,” she says.

“So I decided to help from a distance.”

Gyberg noticed that dogs and cats at OHS get the lion’s share of toy donations. “I decided to help improve the birds’ lives on some level,” she says. Now she’ll help even more, thanks to sharing her trade secrets with all of us.

Ingredients that top Gyberg’s list for homemade bird toys include inexpensive items such as beads, popsicle sticks, jute and hemp string, cotton rope, woven baskets and wooden craft pieces. Items can be found at local craft, thrift or dollar stores, as well as specialty bird shops. Parrot Perch, located in Vancouver, WA, sells a variety of fun bird toy parts, for those who would rather create higherend custom bird toys. Keep in mind: toys need to be safe and fit the size of the bird. Toys with small pieces for smaller birds can be broken off and ingested by larger birds.

Gyberg emphasizes that ropes should be natural-colored (not dyed) and wood should be untreated and non-toxic. “Don’t overlook natural branches,” she notes. Birds can develop pressure sores on their feet

from standing on even surfaces.

“Prune some branches from an apple tree in your backyard, wash with hot, soapy water, and rinse well before setting up in your bird’s cage.”

You can even make parrot toys from household items. Be sure to use unscented, child-safe products and non-toxic glue. Toilet paper and paper towel rolls make great shredding toys. For years I have tied a knot in a paper towel sheet with or without a nut inside the knot. My Amazon gnaws on them happily for hours.

Gyberg likes tying string thru a roll of calculator tape and hanging it inside the cage. “And never underestimate the fun a small bird can have with a pair of shoelaces tied to the ceiling of its cage,” she says. There’s a ton of ideas for toys that are cheap and easy, that provide loads of stimulation.

Getting your pet bird accessories and toys isn’t just a treat, it’s a necessity. Birds require a certain amount of stimulation to ensure they are developing and staying fit mentally and physically. Like their canine counterparts, birds too delight in newfound prizes.

Gyberg has written several pamphlets on the care and feeding of birds that OHS hands out to prospective adopters. If you would like one, just ask! Contact Gyberg at aviancrazy@comcast.net.

Vonnie Harris is a freelance writer, and operator of BowWows & Meows Pet Services of SW WA. She and her brood, Jake and Jessie, both yellow Labs, and parrots Pedro (YellowNape Amazon) and Lorali (African Grey) reside in Vancouver.

Vonnie also is “the face of Spot” at many Portland-area petrelated events. Contact her at vonnie@spotmagazine.net.

Health Report

H1N1: What you need to know about your pets and the swine flu Camilla Mortensen • Spot Magazine

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Camilla Mortensen is a journalist, folklorist and freelance writer with a Ph.D. in literature. She lives in a 1975 Airstream trailer in Pleasant Hill, Oregon with her three dogs — Zella a Rhodesian Ridgeback born without a ridge; Smudge, a blind doxie mix and Rhoda a pit mix — and a cat, Clelia. Her two horses Baby Huey and Flashtastic live close by.

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to the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA). The other two others, from Iowa and Utah, have recovered. The three other cats in Buddy Lou’s household were also sneezing and coughing, but they recovered and tested negative for the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, according to the AVMA. Veterinarians say pet owners shouldn’t panic. Precautions for pets are similar to precautions for human-to-human transmission.

It is possible, although no documented cases have occurred, for pet owners to get the flu from their cats or ferrets. As we’ve heard all season long, Dr. Emilio DeBess, Oregon State Public Health Veterinarian, reiterates the importance of washing your hands frequently, covering a cough and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth if you’ve had contact with an animal with a respiratory illness.

The state has created a flyer giving pet owners information about H1N1, available at most veterinarians’. Pet guardians should consider the possibility of their cats, birds, ferrets, and even dogs having H1N1 if a member of the household has recently had the illness, and take the pet to the vet for testing and treatment. More information on pets and swine flu is available at http://oregonvma.org/ resources/h1n1.

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regon saw the first cat in the nation to die of H1N1 (aka “swine flu”). Oregon also had the first confirmed case of a ferret with H1N1, and to have a ferret die of the illness. In addition to the pigs for which this strain of flu is named, flocks of domestic turkeys have contracted the illness too. So far no affected dogs have been reported, and it is not yet known if they are susceptible.

Buddy Lou, a 10-year-old Tabby from Lebanon, OR, came down with a respiratory illness shortly after a child in his house was sick with flu-like symptoms, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). The cat died Nov. 7, four days after being taken to the Lebanon Animal Clinic.

Fluid had accumulated in the cat’s lungs, and he did not respond to routine antibiotics or oxygen treatment. Tests confirmed that he had H1N1.

It may be surprising that it’s not unusual for diseases to be passed from animals to humans. Such illnesses, called zoonotic diseases, can be as simple and harmless as ringworm or as devastating as anthrax, plague or rabies. It’s less common for a human to pass a disease to an animal than an animal to a human.

Buddy Lou is the third cat diagnosed with the virus, according

Mutt Mixers TOP DOG AWARDS Celebration Thurs, Jan. 7th 6:30-8:30 pm

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SPOT MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2009

27

MarketPlace:

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No Cages.

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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.

ACCOUNT EXEC Spot Magazine is growing! We are seeking a gifted sales/marketing pro with a heart for animals. Work from your home office but expect a great deal of interaction with our fun, dynamic team. Straight commission; great longterm potential. Please send resume and letter of intro to publisher@spotmagazine.net. No phone calls please.

FOSTER CARE

LEGAL EAGLE Legal eagle needed to help establish Spot’s nonprofit side.

Jennnifer 503.261.1162 • publisher@spotmagazine.net

FOSTER PARENTS NEEDED If you would like to be a volunteer foster parent for Other Mothers Animal Rescue, please call 503.452.0465 to request an application. We need dedicated animal lovers to care for pregnant dogs or cats and/or their litters until they can be adopted into permanent homes.Please check us out at www.othermothers.org, Then call if you can help these precious puppies or kittens. This is a great way to get to cuddle the baby critters without committing to more than 6 or 8 weeks. Other Mothers needs you! 971.321.6858.

HEALTH/WELLNESS ORGANIC WHEAT-FREE DOG TREAT RECIPES Send $3 & an SASE to Mrs. Paws at 8056 E Mill Plain Blvd. Vancouver WA 98664.

28 SPOT MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2009

HOUSE & PET SITTERS DEPENDABLE RETIRED COUPLE We do overnight and vacation house and pet sitting. Dogs, cats, horses, whatever! Responsible with great references.

503-537-9719 or 503-679-5613 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

Where Everyone’s got a Spot!

Spot readers trust, love and read the magazine cover to cover.

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Pet-related or Pet-friendly, pet people prefer to patronize businesses that have a heart for animals.

ADVERTISE Call Jennifer McCammon 503.261.1162 • publisher@spotmagazine.net

DEC • 2009

1 tuesday • Adoption Special at CAT. Throughout December when you donate 15 lbs. or more of cat food for CAT’s food bank you’ll receive a $25 off voucher toward adoption this month. Also this month at CAT: The Giving Tree is accepting donations, and CAT’s in-shelter store has lots of gifts for the cat-lover in your life.

• CAT’s 2010 Krazy for Kittens calendar is available all month for $10. Order online at catadoptionteam.org.

• People Food Drive & Adoption Special at Multnomah County Animal Services, going all month long. Bring 2 cans of PEOPLE FOOD and receive $10 off all adoption fees. Collected food will go to Dignity Village. Details MultCoPets.org.

9am — Meet adoptable Cats & Kittens from MCAS at Gresham Petsmart on Eastman Parkway during open hours, 9-9 daily.

Adoption counselors are on site Tues-Sun noon-4.

5pm — ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo 5-8pm Sun-Thurs through Jan. 3. Stroll through the zoo’s winter wonderland of more than a million lights. Lighted zoo train, choral & ensemble music, a gift shop and more. Closed Dec. 24 & 25.

5:30pm — Intro to Basic Manners Dog Training Classes at Oregon Humane Society in Portland.

Fun, positive dog training classes built for flex schedules.

Intro classes offered at varying times today & Dec. 12, 15 & 26.

Training classes offered TuesFri. Details oregonhumane.org.

2 wednesday 7:50am — Wet Nose Wednesday on K103 FM radio. Tune in!

4pm — Santa Paws Pet Photos

at Bridgeport Village in Tigard ‘til 8 to benefit DoveLewis. Details bridgeport–village.com.

3 thursday Noon — Free Pet Loss Support group at DoveLewis in NW Portland. No need to RSVP; bring a photo to share! Details Dovelewis.org.

6:05pm — Get Out! Tune in for a quick Events Report for pets & people this weekend. Spot’s Furry FunPlanner report opens the KPSU Family Show weekly on 1450 AM. 7pm — Service of Remembrance with DoveLewis and Dignified Pet Services at The Old Church, 1422 SW 11th Ave. in downtown Portland. Doors open at 6; service at 7. A special event begins at 8. Free; no need to RSVP. The annual Service of Remembrance is a special celebration of the bond between humans and our beloved companion animals. Among others who treasure this bond, those gathered will light candles in memory of those loved and lost. Details oldchurch.org or dignifiedpetservices.com.

4 friday • The DO JUMP show benefits CAT. A very special holiday show for CAT lovers, and fundraiser for Cat Adoption Team rolled into one. The cat-like performers of DO JUMP! present a lively, fun feline circus. Details dojump.org/ CAT. 10am — OHS Adoption Outreach at the Christmas Bazaar at the Portland Expo Center ‘til 6.

receive $5 of every purchase.

Participating PetsMart stores listed Dec. 5 at Noon.

8am — Christmas Tree Sale at Woodland Elementary in Fairview ‘til 4. All trees $20; proceeds benefit Multnomah County Animal Services. The sale continues tomorrow 8-4.

Details MultCoPets.org.

10am — Holiday Pet Portraits with Santa at Howl at the Moon in Vancouver ‘til 3. $25 gets you 12 digital photos. All proceeds benefit the animals at the Humane Society for SW Washington. Details/RSVP howl-at-the-moon.com.

10am — Microchip Clinic hosted by the Humane Society for SW Washington at Howl at the Moon in Vancouver ‘til 3. $25 includes registration. Details/ RSVP howl-at-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.

10am — Santa Paws in the Pearl in the ASA Flats Lobby, 1200 NW Marshall in Portland ‘til 2. Details dovelewis.org.

11am — Adoption Outreach with Marion County Dog Shelter at PetSense in Woodburn ‘til 4pm. Meet some sweet, adoptable dogs!

Noon — Adopt a Cat this Weekend. CAT counselors are

on-site at local PetsMart stores ‘til 4. PetsMarts are located at Cascade Station, in Clackamas, Hillsboro, Tanasbourne, Tigard, Tualatin, Wilsonville and Washington Square. Also noon-4 Dec 6 & 7, and the weekends of Dec 12, 19 &26.

Noon — MCAS Adoption Outreach at Clackamas Petco ‘til 3. Today meet sweet adoptable kittens currently in foster care.

6pm — Anniversary Celebration & Charity Fundraiser ‘til 9 at Healthy Pets NW, 2224 NE Alberta St. in Portland. Pet photos with Santa, raffle for a Cruiser bike, great auction values, complimentary edibles & beverages. Proceeds benefit the Oregon Spay/Neuter Fund.

All toys & treats at the store 20% off. Details healthypetsnw.com.

6 sunday 10am — Holiday Gift Fair ‘til 6 at S.A.R.A.’s in Eugene.

New & handcrafted items, gift certificates, gift baskets & more, donated by people and businesses who care about shelter animals. All proceeds benefit S.A.R.A.’s lifesaving mission to rescue, assist and advocate for shelter animals. Details sarastreasures.org.

10am — Microchip Clinic hosted by the Humane Society for SW

5 saturday • Santa Claws Pet Photos at local PetsMart stores. Have your pet (of any kind) photographed with Santa for $9.95 and CAT will SPOT MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2009

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Washington at Howl at the Moon in Vancouver ‘til 3. $25 includes registration. Details/RSVP howlat-the-moon.com.

Noon — The Cat Food Bank is open ‘til 2:30 to provide cat food for cat owners in financial need at CAT’s shelter, 14175 SW Galbreath Dr. in Sherwood, OR. 11am — Canine Sunday Play group at Opportunity Barks in Pleasant Hill, the place for pet play, training & daycare.

Enjoy good company in a great setting, plus homemade baked goods & coffee — $5. Details opportunitybarks.com.

1pm — Portland Great Dane Community meetup at Ross Park.

8 tuesday 10am — Holiday Pet Portraits with Santa at Howl at the Moon in Vancouver ‘til 3. $25 gets you 12 digital photos. All

proceeds benefit the animals at the Humane Society for SW Washington. Details/RSVP howlat-the-moon.com.

6pm — Healthy Holiday Treats for Fido presented by Mindglo at Whole Foods Market at NE 15th & Fremont in Portland. Prepare tasty treats for your best friend in this 3-hour workshop. Please leave the pooch at home. Class $39, materials $12; details mindglo.com.

9 wednesday 7:50am — Wet Nose Wednesday on K103 FM radio. Tune in!

4pm — Santa Paws Pet Photos at Bridgeport Village in Tigard ‘til 8 to benefit DoveLewis. Details bridgeport–village.com.

10 thursday 9am — Free Pet Loss Support group at DoveLewis in NW Portland. No need to RSVP;

Dec 3, 2009: Brett Weed on having his children abducted to Japan.

Dec 10, 2009: Patty Katz on helping to overcome impediments to employment for those who have an arrest on their record.

Dec 17, 2009: Street Roots Newspaper, which gives homeless people an opportunity to sell the newspaper and help themselves.

Dec 24, 2009: The Christmas music of Irish Celtic music band Darby O’Gill.

Dec 31, 2009: Sonja Harju on issues facing Oregonians in 2010.

1450 AM • kpsu.org evenings/weekends • webcast 24/7 • huge diversity

30 SPOT MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2009

bring a photo to share! Details Dovelewis.org.

6pm — Toxins: The Myths vs. the Facts, free Pet Health Workshop at DoveLewis in NW Portland.

RSVP required: dovelewis.org/ giftShop. Age 12 and older only; please leave pets at home.

6:05pm — Get Out! Tune in for a quick Events Report for pets & people this weekend. Spot’s Furry FunPlanner report opens the KPSU Family Show weekly on 1450 AM.

12 saturday • Santa Claws Pet Photos at local PetsMart stores today & tomorrow. Have your pet (of any kind) photographed with Santa for $9.95 and CAT will receive $5 of every purchase. Participating PetsMart stores listed Dec. 5 at Noon.

10am — Adoption Outreach at Salem Saturday Market’s Holiday Gift Market in the Jackman-Long Building at the Oregon State Fairgrounds ‘til 6.

Admission free. Also happening tomorrow 10-4.

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

10am — Pet Photos with Santa & Holiday Open House ‘til 2 at Mckenzie Feed and Pet Supplies, 4343 Main in Springfield. Proceeds benefit WAG spay/neuter clinic. All participating pets will get a treat bag and be entered in a drawing for a year’s supply of highestquality pet food. Vendors will offer drawings, samples & info.

Details 541-726-2951.

11am — MCAS Adoption Outreach at Clackamas Town Center, Macy’s Home Court ‘til 3:30. Multnomah County Animal Services have teamed with Clackamas County Dog Services to find forever homes for adoptable dogs & cats. Come

meet these furry friends and fall in love! Doggit the Holiday Dog will be on site. Details MultCoPets.org.

11am — Pet Caricatures at Howl at the Moon in Vancouver ‘til 5. $20 per person/pet.

Makes a great holiday gift; see examples at howl-at-themoon.com.

Noon — Find some bunny to love. Meet the Rabbit Advocates and their sweet adoptables at Western Pet Supply in Beaverton ‘til 3.

Conversation/info about rabbit care & adoption, plus light grooming & nail trims for visiting bunnies (suggested donation). Details adoptarabbit.org.

1pm — OHS Adoption Outreach at Bark Avenue Meow Place at Clackamas Town Center ‘til 4.

8pm — Michael Allen Harrison Concert to benefit DoveLewis at The Old Church, 1422 SW 11th Ave. in Portland. Doors open at 7. RSVP to dovelewis.org.

Details oldchurch.org or mahrecords.com.

13 sunday 10:30am — T-Touch for Dogs workshop. Take your dog and learn valuable relaxation methods in this popular class.

T-Touch is helpful in dealing with a wide range of behavioral & physical problems. Cost $65 with dog, $45 without. Details oregonhumane.org.

Noon — The Pongo Pet Food Bank, helping anyone who needs help feeding their pet(s), is open ‘til 3 at 910 NE MLK Jr Blvd in Portland.

Details in Fetch this issue, or www.thepongofund.org.

11am — Canine Sunday Play group at Opportunity Barks in Pleasant Hill, the place for pet play, training & daycare.

Enjoy good company in a great

setting, plus homemade baked goods & coffee — $5. Details opportunitybarks.com.

1pm — Memorial Art Community Workshop at DoveLewis in NW Portland. Families 1-2:30, ages 16-adult 3-4:30. Enid Traisman MSW facilitates. Create a unique memento of your beloved and spend a little time in good company. Free; RSVP to dovelewis.org/giftshop.

1pm — Portland Great Dane Community meetup at Gabriel Park.

16 wednesday 7:50am — Wet Nose Wednesday on K103 FM radio. Tune in!

4pm — Santa Paws Pet Photos at Bridgeport Village in Tigard ‘til 8 to benefit DoveLewis. Details bridgeport–village.com.

7pm — Free Pet Loss Support group at DoveLewis in SE Portland. No need to RSVP; bring a photo to share! Details Dovelewis.org.

17 thursday 10:30am — Presents for Primates at the Oregon Zoo. The folks at the zoo love to do special activities for various holidays.

Now, ‘tis the season for presents, and the chimps, orangutans, mandrills & other primates will receive early holiday gifts from Santa’s elves. Great photo op.

Noon — Free Pet Loss Support group at DoveLewis in NW Portland. No need to RSVP; bring a photo to share! Details Dovelewis.org.

19 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 with Marion County Dog Shelter at Pet Etc. on Edgewater in West

Salem ‘til 4pm. Meet some sweet, adoptable dogs.

11am — OHS Adoption Outreach at LexiDog in the Pearl ‘til 3.

12:30pm — Problem Pooch class at Oregon Human in Portland.

Details oregonhumane.org.

4pm — The Holidays & Your Pets workshop at Oregon Humane Society. Learn to recognize signs of stress in your pet, common holiday pitfalls for pet guardians, fun gift & activity ideas for pet lovers, and info on holiday & winter hazards. Please leave pets at home. Admission suggested $15 donation. Details/ RSVP oregonhumane.org.

20 sunday • Santa Claws Pet Photos at local PetsMart stores. Have your pet (of any kind) photographed with Santa for $9.95 and CAT will receive $5 of every purchase.

Participating PetsMart stores listed Dec. 5 at Noon.

12:30pm — Finicky Feline class at Oregon Humane in Portland.

Free; details oregonhumane.org.

11am — Canine Sunday Play group at Opportunity Barks in Pleasant Hill, the place for pet play, training & daycare.

Enjoy good company in a great setting, plus homemade baked goods & coffee — $5. Details opportunitybarks.com.

1pm — Portland Great Dane Community meetup at North Clackamas Park.

21 monday

26 saturday • Santa didn’t bring you that big screen TV? You could win one before the big game.

Starting today, CAT is raffling a TV and $250 gift card, perfect for supplies for your Super Bowl party. Drawing Saturday, Jan. 30. Details catadoptionteam.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 — Adoption Outreach with Marion County Dog Shelter at Salem Petco on Lancaster ‘til 4pm.

27 sunday Noon — The Pongo Pet Food Bank, helping anyone who needs help feeding their pet(s), is open ‘til 3 at 910 NE MLK Jr Blvd in Portland.

Details in Fetch this issue, or www.thepongofund.org.

11am — Canine Sunday Playgroup at Opportunity Barks in Pleasant Hill, the place

for pet play, training & daycare.

Enjoy good company in a great setting, plus homemade baked goods & coffee — $5. Details opportunitybarks.com.

1pm — Portland Great Dane Community meetup at Hazeldale Park.

30 wednesday 7:50am — Wet Nose Wednesday on K103 FM radio. Tune in!

5pm — Yappy Hour/New Year’s Mingle ‘til 8 at Bishop Creek Cellars in x ‘til 8. Ring in the new year with good company, including the canine variety, and a little vino.

Hosted by Critter Cabana, the Newberg Animal Shelter Friends and Bishop Creek Cellars. Details bishopcreekcellars.com.

6pm — New Year’s Party for dogs & their humans at Ready, Paint, Fire in Portland’s Pearl District.

Join LexiDog and the Oregon Humane Society in celebrating the New Year and your pooch. Enjoy a glass of wine, see works by local pet artists, mingle with other dog guardians and meet some sweet adoptables.

BROKE? NEED HELP? Do you have a PIT BULL or PIT BULL MIX that is: • In heat? Possibly Pregnant?

• Might get pregnant and you can’t afford to have a litter right now?

7pm — Free Pet Loss Support group at DoveLewis in NW Portland. No need to RSVP; bring a photo to share! Details Dovelewis.org.

WE WILL HELP!

23 wednesday

and we will provide a voucher for the surgery.

A very small co-pay may be asked.

7:50am — Wet Nose Wednesday on K103 FM radio. Tune in!

Lane County Animal Services Call 541.682.2388 Call today to receive your voucher!

See page 6 for details.

SPOT MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2009

31

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