September 2009 - Spot Magazine

Magazine

UN-CHAINED one dog at a time

A duo’s dream come true

Doggy Delight

What really happened

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Opportunity Barks

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Getting it done

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Girl to the Rescue

Mutt Mixers

Wicked Costume Contest RSVP ASAP!

EVERYTHING PET IN THE NORTHWEST! • SEPT 2009

“A dog wags its tail with its heart.”

-Martin Buxbaum

Bring your heart and wag your tail at Presented by Capitol Subaru Saturday, October 3 • 2009 Salem Conference Center • Salem, OR Tickets: $60 per person Order tickets online or learn more at www.WillametteHumane.org or call (503) 585-5900, ext. 660.

Don’t miss Willamette Humane Society’s signature fundraiser.

Don your favorite costume and enjoy a gourmet dinner, drinks, live musical entertainment, and the opportunity to bid on more than 125 unique items and one-of-a-kind experiences.

Collars & leashes made from recycled bike tubes.

Our unique fabrication method creates a non-stretch leash with soft hand feel.

Quality materials and craftsmanship.

Quick drying for water dogs – fights the stink!

For active people with active dogs!

Find local retailers at

www.cycle-dog.com

Every year millions of old bike tubes are thrown into landfills.

A better way complete the cycle with Cycle Dog!

10 UN-CHAINED . . . one dog at a time

The mission is simple: get as many dogs off chains as possible by building fences. The results: even better than expected.

16 Doggy Delight What really happened

Running a business is challenging in the best of times. In times like these it can be a cruel storm. Doggy Delight is the story of one woman behind the statistics . . . and the tale of a survivor.

8 Girl to the Rescue: Getting it done

She’s 14, fabulous, and a model for us all in rolling up our sleeves and getting it done.

14 Opportunity Barks Valley duo’s dream come true

This daycare/training facility in the scenic Willamette Valley was built for doggie delight: comfy accommodations, learning and fun.

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Mutt Mixers Wicked Costume Contest RSVP ASAP!

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6 Pick it up! Here’s why.

21 The Problem with “Free to Good Home”

Believe it. Pets given away free often end up as bait used to train fighting dogs, as breeders in puppy mills, even as snake food. Heather Hines takes on the topic.

22 Zucchini overload?

Share it with the pooch They love it and it’s good for them! Just take care to follow the guidelines — courtesy of the ‘Dog Food Dude.’

Meet some of the precious babies who make their way to Spot’s door. Those featured in Rescue Me! are often a little older, sometimes need special care, and often have languished at the shelter just too damn long.

18 Reader Spotlight

Meet Scooby, Kiehley, & Lucky

27 Classifieds 5 From the Publisher 5 Letters to the Editor 22

crunchy little newsbits to chew on - Adopt a Lab for less on Labor Day weekend - Meet popular author Garth Stein - Hood River for Vino and Fido - Dove’s huge September harvest - Mani/Pedi for your bunny? Yes! - Caring for Senior Pets class - Greenhill presents Good Manners workshop - Dove Blood Bank: calling all superheroes - Everybody in the pool! in Vancouver - Salem night out is the cat’s meow - Affordable feline adoptions in Eugene - Volunteer pilots make largest-ever pet airlift

13 Don’t miss Doggie Palooza

Dogs get the red carpet at Portland’s World Forestry Center one day a year. For those who love BIG pet-friendly festivities, this one is not to be missed!

12 Crazy about cats?

Go On Safari

Over 250 cats of 30 different breeds will compete at On Safari. Even housecats have competition and classes — and a chance to win top honors.

Rescue Me!

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Our Mission

Jennifer McCammon Publisher

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.

w/ Lula & Scout

Publisher@SpotMagazine.net

VOL. 5 • NO. 2 September 2009

Contributing Writers Kathy Covey Jennifer DuMond-Biglan Kristan Dael Charity Faris Jake Faris Vonnie Harris Camilla Mortensen Zach Richter Krista Snook Connie Theil

Contributing Photographers Vonnie Harris David Childs

Lancea LaPorte Art Director w/ Molly

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.

Spot@LaPorte-Design.com

Jake Faris

Features Editor w/ Buddy

Jake@SpotMagazine.net

Advertising Janet Wheeland

Account Executive Portland & Surrounding w/ Elvis Janet@SpotMagazine.net

Subscription Rates:

503.887.5921

1 year $15; 2 years $25

Andrea Griffith

Spot Magazine

Account Executive Willamette Valley w/ Dardle

PO Box 16667 Portland, OR 97292 Voice 503.261.1162 Fax 503.261.8945

Andrea@SpotMagazine.net

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

541.729.7578

Krista Snook

Account Executive Willamette Valley w/ Bailey

© 2009 Living Out Loud Inc www.SpotMagazine.net

Krista@SpotMagazine.net

541.653.3704

Events, Distribution, Writer w/ Jake

Pacific Northwest Pit Bull Rescue

Vonnie@SpotMagazine.net

360.903.4174

Marnie McCammon

Eugene/Springfield Office w/ Zip & foster kitten Gage Marnie@SpotMagazine.net 541.741.1242

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Vonnie Harris

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

Administration

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Our cover model is a recent beneficiary of Fences For Fido, who freed him from his chain. Fences For Fido is an all-volunteer organization. Grab your gloves and lend a hand! www.fencesforfido.org

����������������������������� �������������������������������������� 50+ Microbrews Learn More at www.ROGUE.com or Call (541) 867-3660

Mutt Mixers

Pet-Friendly First Thursday Social Hour October 1st , 2009 @ Hotel Monaco see page 28 for details

From the Publisher

Jennifer McCammon with Broadway

Who would have thought ...

. . . that a dog named Kartoffel — translated POTATO — would teach us so many important life lessons . . . that I would get to be among the hosts of a recurring social where people and pooches, wall to wall, have a ball in a downtown hotel . . . that a little magazine could actually connect a few dots and help save lives . . . that a reader would address a note to me: Dearest Jennifer . . . that I would find myself privileged with a crew — and a community — made up of brilliant, passionate, hard-working, fun-loving dynamos . . . that I would fall in love with so many wonderful people and animals Not me!

To the editor: I have been working at animal shelters my whole adult life. What I love about my current position at Lane County Animal Services (LCAS) is that we have entered the modern age of progressive sheltering. I cut my teeth immersed in a culture of blaming the public for all of our pet overpopulation woes. Now, instead of pointing fingers, we extend a helping hand.

All of the shelters here in the Willamette Valley have one thing in common: too many Pit Bulls and Bully breed mixes are homeless orphans. They exhaust shelter supplies and are often challenging to adopt out. Rather than throwing up our hands and passing the blame, LCAS has teamed with the Eugene Spay/Neuter Clinic and Greenhill Humane Society to curb unwanted litters of Bully breeds. A small unexpected windfall of cash has been dedicated to vouchers for the altering of Pit Bull-type dogs. We are focusing on low-income folks who cannot otherwise afford the surgery, and targeting female dogs likely to reproduce. Bully litters usually are 10+ puppies, so every spay is a huge victory. I gladly hand out vouchers for in-heat and pregnant dogs, knowing their accidental litters face a scary, uncertain future.

We make it easy to obtain a voucher — just call me and explain your situation! We are here to help.

But it’s all true. And these are just a few of the wonders that have come — and keep coming — in this little world called Spot.

I love and am thankful for the opportunity to inform, teach and learn from, engage, entertain and know you, our amazing readers. In this little world called Spot you’ll just as often find us chasing in important emerging medical treatment as “LOAO” about “the buttscoot.”

Depending on when you catch us we might be burning the midnight oil on something you’ve just got to see, attending a workshop, or just kicking it with friends at a social/ fundraising gathering.

Wherever you find us you’ll always find one thing: a group of people just like you, who are committed to, grateful for and passionate about our pets.

Sometimes along the way we hit a bump and have to do a little do-si-do to set things right. Happy to do it. Often though (thankfully!) we’re sailing in our element, bringing you breaking news, compelling stories, salient tips for health and good living, and bits and pieces sure to make you smile.

We love what we do here at Spot, and I just want to thank you, dear reader — for the many ThankYous and pats on the back, and — just as important — the notes nudging us back on track when we’ve missed a turn.

You’re the boss, and we love working for you!

Yours in everything pet,

SPOT magazine is also here to help. SPOT has generously advertised this voucher program for us, with great results. Folks will call up, with unsure voices. “I saw this ad? In SPOT magazine? Uhmmm . . . do you think you can help me?” The relief and joy in the voices of these Bully caretakers is palpable. Many of them wanted to do the right thing, but their kid got sick.

The boyfriend went to jail. They were laid off. Recently disabled.

These people don’t need a lecture about responsibility, they need help.

They need a voucher!

Please, if you are able to donate just $40 to our voucher program, that is another female spayed. Another 10 puppies that don’t have to roll the dice in an animal shelter. Another shelter kennel empty, instead of housing a lost, abandoned, homeless Pit Bull. And frankly, another litter of Pit Bulls not running loose and causing the kind of havoc that gives Bullies a bad name. Any donations will keep this lifesaving program going. Help us help the people — and the dogs — who need it the most.

Kylie Belachaikovsky Lane County Animal Services Volunteer and Community Outreach Coordinator Eugene • 541.682.2388 SPOT MAGAZINE

| SEPTEMBER 2009

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Tara Hi. I read about Family Dogs New Life in the August 2009 edition. A couple months after my Malamute/ Rott mix (Basha) died, I wanted to get a new friend for my Kelpie/Chow mix (Chelsea). I saw Tara on FDNL’s website and thought she’d be a perfect fit. Chelsea and I went to visit Tara a couple of times. Tara was so sweet and playful. She’s eight, and loves to play with tennis balls. I wanted to bring her home. Unfortunately, Chelsea would snap at Tara when Tara wanted attention from me. After the second (or third) visit, I decided it wouldn’t be safe for Tara to be alone with Chelsea in Chelsea’s house. That was in May.

Tara is still at Family Dogs New Life. Her bio on FDNL’s website describes the dog I met.

I know she’s better off at FDNL (a nokill shelter) than the dogs at some other facilities. But, living in a shelter is not a great life for a great dog — Tara needs a home, probably without little kids. She’s been there since March 2, 2009. I’m sure there’s got to be someone out there who’s perfect for her and visa versa.

I’ve been thinking and worrying about Tara every day. I check the site every week hoping she’s been adopted. I just know Rescue Me! will find her perfect person or family!

Sincerely, Colleen Vaughn, SE Portland

Note: We checked with Tasha at FDNL to make sure Tara was still there. She confirmed that she is still available, adding that “She is a nice old girl with plenty of spunk, very affectionate, seems to be housetrained to me . . . she is very clean and crate-trained. Great with other dogs and cats, and older kids (she’s an older lady who doesn’t like to be pulled on or grabbed at”). To learn more and make a date with Tara, visit familydogsnewlife.org — the editor.

Eva I know everyone thinks I’m beautiful and that being a Siamese/Himalayan mix should have no trouble finding a home, however I’m still waiting for you to take me home. Do you miss someone being there for you when you get home? Would you like to be awakened with a kiss? Are you looking for unconditional love? I can give you all that and beauty too! Please call, come meet me, and let’s fall in love.

Eva is at Animal Aid, 503.292.6628 • animalaidpdx.org.

Finn Finn is a cute little boy who loves to play and be played with. He likes to snuggle in a warm lap, and enjoys being around other cats and people. He purrs a lot — he’s just an all-around sweetheart! Are you Finn’s forever person? Find out at CAT’s Sherwood shelter. 503.925.8903 or catadoptionteam.org.

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Toby Toby is so much fun! He loves to play with anything: balls, string toys, mice, even the cord on the video camera. He’s a cuddly guy too and will give you little kitty kisses.

Toby would make a great companion for a kitty that’s home alone. All this and he’s a handsome orange Tabby boy.

Stop by Animal Aid’s Show & Tell Saturday and see if Toby isn’t the guy for you! Details 503.292.6628 or animalaidpdx.org.

Lineah Lineah is a pretty kitty who wants to jump into your lap and your heart!

The thing is, she’s an FIV kitty, which means she needs to be either an only cat or live with another FIV kitty. Lineah is a purr-fectly wonderful cat who loves to be petted and will shower you with plenty of affection. Come and meet this lovely lady at CAT’s Sherwood shelter, 14175 SW Galbreath Dr. 503.925.8903 • catadoptionteam.org.

Present this coupon for a

Free Exam and 10% Off Vaccines!

New Clients only. Existing clients recieve

10% off vaccines with this coupon.

Compliments of Best Care Animal Hospital 503-533-2323 • www.bestcarevet.com

How We Can Help • 24 hour emergency service, our phones are always answered • A Place for Viewing and Saying Goodbye • We Provide "A Place to Go" for families mourning their loss • Four State of the Art crematories • Guaranteed Private Cremation • Unique Cremation Urns • Granite Monuments and Engraved River Rock • A vast selection of Pet Loss books and literature 8976 SW Tualatin Sherwood Road Tualatin, OR 97062 Phone (503) 885-2211 www.DignifiedPetServices.com

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

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?

BROKE NEED HE

WE WILL HELP! Lane County Animal Services Call 541.682.2388

and we will provide a voucher for the surgery.

A very small co-pay may be asked.

Call today to receive your voucher!

Do you| have a7 SPOT MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2009

Everyday Heroes

Girl to the rescue

Jake Faris • Spot Magazine

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raduating this year with a 3.3 GPA from Beaverton High School’s International Baccalaureate program, you could say Jill Wardrop is a good student.

As the three-year president of her local Becca’s Closet chapter — an international organization providing dresses and accessories to high school students who can’t afford these things for prom — you could say Jill is a social advocate. Taking all that and adding in her work in the animal community, these categorizations don’t do her justice.

“It’s this whole, crazy dog world!

I never knew I’d be a part of it, but here I am . . . in the middle!” she says.

Jill was 13 the first time she — along with her brother Jimmy and parents Shannon and Dave — got involved in rescue work. The family took in a Cattle dog/Lab mix that was, according to Shannon Wardrop, “just a wonderful dog.”

Jill Wardrop brought up the puppy question again a year later after reading an article online about Guide Dogs for the Blind. Guide Dog puppies come with support and training assistance, along with the eventuality of moving on to guide dog “finishing school.”

Since her first Guide Dog puppy — who Jill says tested her skills and patience for 14 long months — she’s raised five more, including her current golden furball, Marina.

Rather than working with a dog for a whole year (the norm), Jill “job shares” with another trainer. She takes either the first three months

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When Jill learned what happened when homes weren’t found in time, she decided to do something about it.

— working on housebreaking, crate-training and basic obedience — or the last nine months, gradually exposing the pup to the human world.

Successfully training six guide dogs in four years is quite a feat; but Jill doesn’t take all the credit.

“I definitely couldn’t have done it without my parents,” she says.

“My mom was a huge help. She co-raised the first, second and . . . third guide dog puppy.”

Her parents also played a big role in her more recent adventure in rescue. “It all started with Craigslist,” Jill begins. “Nobody should ever look at the Craigslist pet section because you’ll end up

with a dog, and that’s exactly how we got Bubba.”

But it wasn’t just Bubba Jill found when perusing the Craigslist pet pages in June 2008; she also found the Tri-Cities Animal Shelter (TCAS) in Pasco, WA, which led to a brief stint fostering for the organization.

Like many small rural shelters, TCAS is constantly pressed for the space required to keep adoptable animals as long as it takes to find forever homes. When Jill learned what happened when homes weren’t found in time, she decided to do something about it.

Coordinating with TCAS and a driver named Mike — who she

found through the rideshare section on Craigslist — Jill accepted her first shipment of two dogs from the Pasco shelter June 10, 2008. In return for gas money, Mike dropped off Melissa, “a little Black Staffie,” and Bubba, “a Chocolate Lab/Pit Bull mix.” Jill says her mom’s only rules were: “No Pit Bulls” and “It can’t involve me.”

Understandably, there was some surprise when the Wardrops met Jill’s first foster puppies. Shannon Wardrop remembers thinking, “Are you kidding me?”

“I think my mom was a little upset when I first brought them home,” remembers Jill. Yet she had faith it would only be a matter of time before her parents would see through the breed’s maligned reputation.

Jill got busy getting the dogs fixed and immunized, then started the hard job of inter-species matchmaker. Jill introduced a former guide dog trainer to Melissa, and “there was an immediate connection,” she says. She told the candidate, “She’s your dog; what can I say!”

Finding Bubba’s family wasn’t so easy.

“After three months and three other foster dogs . . . we decided to keep him,” says Jill. “That’s how we got Bubba.”

After three months, three rideshare shipments, and successfully homing five at-risk dogs from Pasco, Jill decided to take a break from independent fostering.

Everyday Heroes

���������������� Even with support from her par- PNWPBR events, working to eduents and a donation from Suzanne cate people about the breed and Hein, owner of LexiDog Boutique recruit new foster families. Jill says and Social Club in Portland and there are currently six PNWPBR Jill’s employer, foster famiindependent On top of guide lies, and that fostering is adding more dog training, expensive. One means being fostering and arrival from able to pull helping care for more dogs out Pasco caused great concern: of the shelter her own family she had no system. dogs, Bubba, appetite. “Oh While she no,” Jill says she Riliey and Elvis, Jill says she’s thought. “This is also volunteers at “mostly just going to cost me PNWPBR events. taking a little thousands in vet break this bills; what am summer,” Jill is still working at I going to do!” To her relief, she LexiDog on Macadam (she’ll be says, “It turns out she just wasn’t there two years in November), hungry.” and is helping start a new Guide Jill’s experience in fostering Dogs Puppy Raising club in the locally and her affinity for Pit Bulls Gladstone/Lake Oswego area. and other Bully breeds led her to Realizing the irony, she laughs Pacific Northwest Pit Bull Rescue and says, “I like being busy . . . if (PNWPBR), where she applied as you couldn’t tell!” a foster last May. Her first charge Her life will stay busy after startarrived in June and was adopted ing college at PCC this fall. After in July. She expected her second two years she plans to transfer arrival late last month. to Carrol College in Helena, MonOn top of guide dog training, tana, minoring in its unique “Human fostering and helping care for her Animal Bond” program, majoring in own family dogs, Bubba, Riliey Biology. After that? Jill laughs and and Elvis, Jill also volunteers at says, “Surprise! I’d really like to be a vet.”

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

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Mutt Mixers See page 19 for more details.

SPOT MAGAZINE

| SEPTEMBER 2009

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Making Change Connie Theil • Spot Magazine Photos by David Childs • www.davidchildsphotography.com

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e’ve all been there. Every dog lover knows the pain of seeing some poor furry being chained and living outside. Living in loneliness, misery and isolation.

We’ve all seen this scene too many times. One group of Portland women and their friends decided they’d seen enough — and would do something about it.

Portland resident Kelly Peterson, who works for leading animal advocacy group The Humane Society of the United States, loves dogs. When she and her friends heard a radio interview of Amanda Arrington of North Carolina, something clicked. Arrington was dis-

10 SPOT MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2009

cussing a group she had started, “The Coalition to Un-chain Dogs.” The group’s focus was simple: get as many dogs off chains as possible by building fences. To date the group has built fences for over 200 canines, free of charge, all with volunteers.

When Peterson and her friends heard the interview they thought, “We can do that!”

Within a year, Fences for Fido was born.

Peterson and her pals tracked down the folks who started it all and invited them to Oregon. The core four from the Coalition to Unchain Dogs responded, flying to Oregon to spend five hours teaching the fledgling group how to build a sturdy fence.

Chopper, “a sweet, kind-hearted Golden Lab mix” in Peterson’s words, was the first lucky beneficiary. Chopper had lived chained to a tree for nearly six years. It could have been worse; living across the street from a park he could at least watch the goings on. Still, he was chained. Now he plays frisbee with his owner and romps happily in his new fenced yard.

Clearly the effort benefited more than just Chopper.

“Simply un-chaining the dog has dramatically changed the relationship between dog and owner,” marvels Peterson. “The fence enables them to have a closer relationship with their dog.”

The premise is simple. Volunteers politely knock on the door of a home where a dog lives chained. They offer to build a fence, spay or neuter

Making Change

Chopper

the dog if needed, and provide a doghouse, all free of charge. So far no owner has said no; all have been grateful and happy to get their pup off the chain.

Peterson says she’s humbled by how many Portlanders want to help families and their four-legged charges.

“Fences are expensive,” she says. “But we’ve figured out a way to build a safe, economical fence for about $500.00 with about 20 helping hands.”

Recently FFF partnered with Multnomah County Animal Services.

While out and about, MCAS staff hand out FFF literature to prospective recipients, providing tips on the program and its benefits.

When asked what it was like when Chopper was released into his newly-fenced yard, Peterson was ebullient. “Words cannot adequately describe it. When Chopper was free of his chain it was a moment I will never forget.” She goes on to say that with all the craziness in the world, here was something amazing. Watching Chopper race around the yard, smelling and marking his territory, was a wonderful experience.

Since then, FFF has built fences for other lucky pups, and has a waiting list of 14.

Un-chained, one dog at a time.

Fences For Fido is an all-volunteer nonprofit. Donations are tax deductible. To learn more or to lend a hand, visit fencesforfido.org or contact info@fencesforfido.org.

Connie Theil is a freelance writer, master landscaper, and lifelong animal advocate and rescuer. Previously she served on the Multnomah County Animal Safety Advisory Board, and years ago she and her son helped eradicate greyhound racing in Oregon. Connie has recently returned to Spot, and we’re thrilled to have her back! Contact Connie at carsonlaura@earthlink.net.

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SPOT MAGAZINE

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Events

Crazy about cats? Go On Safari

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ver 250 cats including exotic-looking Bengals from all over the world will be in Portland to compete at On Safari, the prestigious Bengal and all-breed International Cat Show sanctioned by The International Cat Association (TICA) and sponsored by Royal Canin USA. The show runs Fri.-Sun., Oct. 30-Nov. 1, at the Holiday Inn Conference Center at PDX Portland. Considered the ultimate cat show of the year by many Bengal breeders, this is the second time Portland has hosted the 14-year-old event.

The show kicks off with a Bengal-only show Friday night. The Bengal is a domestic cat resembling an Asian Leopard Cat. Affectionately nicknamed loving lap leopards, the Bengal has the temperament and size of a domestic cat but is known for an athletic, muscular body, and vibrant coat colors in chaotic patterns of spots, bars, rosettes, and stripes. Internationally-recognized judges from Nevada, France and Canada will officiate.

Weekend days will feature over 30 different breeds and continuous judging in six rings. Even housecats have competition and classes — and a chance to win top honors.

The show also features HARING CARCE education: while working, ESOURCES renowned judges explain The International Cat Show is collecting breed distinctions, their strucfood for the Oregon Food Bank. ture, colors, and lore. Dr. Meurs Scientists recently discovered domestic from WSU College of Veterinary house cats use a special solicitation purr to Medicine will conduct a seminar get their humans to give them more food! Saturday night on feline heart Check it out at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/ disease and detection. Royal Canin USA will present a nutriscience/nature/8147566.stm tional seminar, and will have experts available for questions at their booth Adoptable cats and kittens from Chapple Hill Cat Sanctuary will be on site too, as will vendors with toys, cat beds and trees, t-shirts, jewelry, and quality cat food. Admission is $3 plus two cans of human food; children under 12 admitted free. Proceeds benefit the Oregon Food Bank and Chapple Hill Cat Sanctuary. Details tncc.org.

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Bring 2 cans of food — no human should be hungry, either.

Spot Magazine • Hotel Monaco Warning! Your pet may not want to leave!

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Mutt Mixer October 1, 6-8pm see page 19 for more info

Celebrate all things dog at Doggie Palooza

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he World Forestry Center in Portland rolls out the red carpet for well-behaved pooches and their people during Doggie Palooza, a great day of fun, learning and celebration. A huge hit its first time out last fall, the fun-filled day in which several buildings on the museum campus are packed with everything dog is happening Sunday Sept.

20, 10-5.

Visiting pooches can pose for a caricature artist, or enter in the Pooch Parade for a shot at great prizes. Human companions will enjoy meeting many experts and organizations, taking in presentations by police k9 units, therapy animals, and dog blood donors, and shopping a great spread of doggie mer$8 adults • $7 seniors • $5 children 3-18 chandise from toys to Details 503.228.1367 or worldforestry.org clothing, treats to furniture and more.

The nonprofit World Forestry Center is a beautiful facility situated in Portland’s beautiful Washington Park alongside the zoo and the Children’s Museum. The educational organization is dedicated to teaching people about the world’s forests and environmental sustainability.

Doggie Palooza was born to accompany a dog-related exhibit, and to everyone’s great delight, it was a huge success and a memorable outing — don’t miss it!

Help a loved one remain at home with their (800) 242-1306 xt.4654 pet safely.

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SPOT MAGAZINE

| SEPTEMBER 2009

13

Willamette Valley

Biz Spotlight:

Stay, play and learn

at a little slice of heaven in Pleasant Hill Camilla Mortensen • Spot Magazine

Y

ou know how happy your dog is when you get home after being gone for a week and you walk in the door and he practically does back flips for joy? How the whole room just exudes doggie delight because everything thing in his little canine world is right again now that you’re home?

That’s about how delighted Sonja Mandel is to own and oper-

ate Opportunity Barks, a doggie daycare, boarding and training facility in Pleasant Hill, OR, just outside Eugene. Mandel and her partner, Carol Rozek, simply

and heated brand-new building in view of the Cascade Mountains. “You can get into dreamland out here.”

Opportunity Barks is designed for doggie delight, complete with an outdoor play area for off-leash fun with toys and canine companions, supervised play on agility equipment — or in kiddie pools when it’s hot — and some basic training. On cold, rainy days the fun moves indoors to a matted area with lots of windows, and walls decorated with bright whimsical murals by Eugene-area painter, Noelle Dass.

Adding to the fun are homebaked treats.

Mandel bakes with anything from apples and carrots (though some dogs don’t love carrots, she admits) to tuna brownies for those on gluten-free diets. “I bake for people too,” she says, “but mostly for the dogs.”

Overnight guests get turndown service, including fresh water, a homemade treat and a tuck-in. love dogs. And they love caring for them when their people are away. “This facility is everything we wanted and more,” says Mandel of their air-conditioned

Overnight guests get turndown service, says Mandel. Not only is their water freshened, they also get a homemade treat and a tuck-in. Rather than crates or cages like a kennel, the

14 SPOT MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2009

Opportunity Barks is designed for doggie delight, complete with an outdoor play area, toys, canine companions, agility equipment and kiddie pools, and some basic training. overnight room is designed more like horse stalls — a row of bright open rooms behind sliding wooden doors.

“Our passion has always been dogs,” Mandel says.

Mandel was once a specialneeds teacher in inner city New York, working with kids who spent summer vacations in prison and lived in neighborhoods so tough that her boss once warned her, “If you go

into that neighborhood, I can’t guarantee you’ll get out alive.” Mandel says hers were kids “who had a lot of emotional problems.”

After years as a volunteer dog walker at a no-kill shelter in New Jersey, Mandel left teaching to begin a pet-sitting service. She’s also taken courses in pet first aid, and can give her charges required meds during their stay.

Formerly a pharmaceutical patent attorney, on her own time Rozek enjoyed working with her dogs.

Eventually taking her training skills to the next level, she studied with Pia Silvani at St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center in Madison, New Jersey. Rozek continues to study positive reinforcement training, and offers training classes at Opportunity Barks.

“Carol’s the discipline person,” Mandel laughs, “I’m the person who likes to have fun.”

When the women moved to Oregon they found their ideal spot in the green fields of the Willamette Valley and built their dream dog

care facility. “We put every penny we had into this place,” says Mandel. “I’m so happy to be here.”

“People come in and look around and a smile just comes over them,” says Mandel. “I’m so excited about everything we’re doing.”

They hope to add pickup and drop-off service in the future.

On Sundays Mandel makes more home-baked treats for animals and people alike. They’re nearly hot-out-of-the-oven fresh for the Canine Socials at Opportunity Barks 11 to noon. While their people enjoy coffee and good company outside or in the inside lounge area, the dogs play. “Everybody rolling over each other, no one’s squashing each other. Everyone has fun.”

Contact Opportunity Barks at www.opportunitybarks.com or 541.726.8435.

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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These Times

Behind the statistics . . .

tale of a survivor Jake Faris • Spot Magazine

A

Melissa Watters • Photo by Alicia Dickerson

2008 was a watershed year for the boutique that had become a household name to many local pet people.

Doggy Delight won first place in five categories in Spot Magazine’s 2008 Top Dog Awards.

16 SPOT MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2009

s stories of financial woes flood the news, the effects of the economy on individuals can get lost in the stats. Melissa Watters’ story is one tale behind those statistics.

About 10 years ago Watters worked as a certified fraud investigator and publisher of a trade newspaper covering the local fraud beat. A success as a publication and a boost to local law enforcement, Watters says her paper “helped catch over 500 fugitives in the Portland area.” Still, she had other dreams.

Watters found her inspiration when she and her husband Matt welcomed Sydney into their lives in 2000. As Sydney’s petmom, Watters discovered fantastic groomers selling a few accessories, and great boutiques with no grooming facilities. No single establishment had it all, and the concept behind Doggy Delight was born.

Despite many “nos” from potential financial backers, Watters hung on to her dream. “I didn’t know the business very well,” she says. Researching the marketplace and studying product lines led her to conclude: “What I needed was a person to help me focus my store.” She met a product representative, who Watters identifies only as SR, in June 2004.

Planning to open her shop in December of that year, during a meeting at a pet trade show in Chicago that October, Watters gave SR money to purchase her store’s substantial initial inventory.

The product rep disappeared.

Now, almost five years later, Watters still shakes her head at the irony of a former fraud investigator getting fleeced by a scammer — who still hasn’t been found.

“I went on with my business,” she says. “I could have closed right then.” Instead Watters moved forward with conviction. As opening day approached, Watters hit the “do-over” button and obtained additional financing to pay for the startup inventory.

The boutique’s pre-Christmas opening was not quite what Watters had envisioned — eight washtubs were still being installed in back. “People walked into a boutique with a giant sheet running through the middle of it,” she says.

But by January the tubs were finished and the shop was in fine form. Then came a new twist: Watters was pregnant. “You could say it was a bit of a surprise,” she says. “Needless to say, it was a really rough year.”

Constantly on her feet and plagued by morning sickness, Watters struggled to learn the ropes of pet retail while getting to know her customers and the market. Few people take on a career change, a startup business and pregnancy simultaneously. But Watters says, “I wouldn’t change it for my daughter.”

Samantha was born August 29, 2005 and Watters took about a month off.

That September is when things at the shop began to pick up. Watters says it was then she began “figuring out the right recipe for the store.”

Emerging from that grueling first year, the second was much easier. By the third year, Watters saw her business grow 4-10% each month. In addition to the charming storefront in

of everything.”

continued pg 26

— Melissa Watters

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Hillsboro, the Doggy Delight booth became a familiar sight at popular Portland-area events like Doggie Palooza and the Pride Festival.

2008 was sparkling for the boutique that had become a household name to many local pet people.

Doggy Delight won first place in five categories in Spot Magazine’s 2008 Top Dog Awards (Boutique, Cat Grooming, Dog Grooming, Dog Spa, Dog Wash), plus third place in two additional categories. (See story spotmagazine.net: Aug 08 pg 12.)

As election season neared that year, Watters heard and heeded the warnings. “People get really weird when it comes to election time,” she says, adding that she was prepared when sales dropped that fall. “People were really conscious of what they were getting,” she says. Sales improved in November, and then another twist came December 14th, when the snow began to fall.

In case shoppers decided to brave the treacherous conditions, Matt Watters drove Melissa and one groomer to the store and home again in his chained-up truck. “December was really, really bad,” says Melissa.

Watters decided to renegotiate her lease to help offset the “This is a great city for losses. That’s when she dogs. There are so many, huge discovered the only options and you don’t realize available to her were: to pay the lease in full (if she could do it until you serve the that she wouldn’t need to renecommunity. I’m proud gotiate), declare she wouldn’t of everything I did and renew, or default on the current having a newborn on top lease.

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SPOT MAGAZINE

| SEPTEMBER 2009

17

Meet Scooby

Meet kiehly My wife and I haven’t had a dog since we had to put down our Rot/Lab mix “Ziggy” about 3 years ago. At first we enjoyed being “pet-less” for a while, which made traveling a little easier. This past year we decided to adopt a rescue dog and really wanted to get a Heeler with a docked tail and as a puppy. Needless to say, most of our friends and our studious inquiries indicated that this might prove an impossible feat, as puppies, especially desirable breeds such as the Heeler, are almost impossible to find (ask the Obamas!).

Two Sundays ago, my wife took a look on Craigs List and lo and behold, she read about an adoption event being held at Kiehl’s Pharmacy on NW “trendythird” Avenue, featuring a very cute Heeler pup.

It was to go noon to 3pm, and we arrived at Kiehl’s at noon.

One look at the puppy and I was on my way to the front of the store to see Melinda from Multnomah County Animal Rescue to let her know we would like to adopt the puppy.

She now has a wonderful and loving home with us and she’s very smart and extremely cute!!! I think your readers would really enjoy a great “dog rescue” story.

To top it all off, we decided to call her Kiehly (pronounced Keely) since that was the place where we first found and saw her.

Thanks so much for all you do, Shelly and PK Buschel, Portland

18 SPOT MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2009

This is our best friend Scooby. I love your magazine, it’s really interesting and very informative. I thought I would share scooby with you guys.

Scooby is a purebred Great Dane. He is currently 150 lbs and about 6’ 6’’ when he stands on my shoulders. He has a grain allergy and eats a very high-quality food which is not cheap! But we love him anyway.

Thanks for the magazine, it is great!!!!!

Dave, Mel, Liss, Rox and Sarah Alderson

Meet lucky Here is a picture of my Jack Russell Terror . . . I mean Terrier . . . after a fun morning walk and looking for moles.

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Mutt Mixers Spot Magazine • Hotel Monaco

Mutt Mixer October 1, 6-8pm

Join your fellow Pet People who are making Spot and Hotel Monaco’s Mutt Mixers their “start here” destination on First Thursdays. On the Mutt Mixer menu are beverages, bites and special presentations or activities you’ll love. There’s great networking too, of course, and it’s just right for a fun night out with your 2- and 4-legged best friends.

Oct. 1, 6-8pm, Spot and the Monaco kick off the season of celebration with a Wicked Halloween Canine Costume Contest! Come out and play, and enjoy tricks, treats, surprises and prizes!

Wicked Halloween Costume Contest!

RSVP

Please let us know you’ll be participating in the costume contest so we have plenty of room to play. Contest entry is $10/dog; proceeds benefit MCAS. Mutt Mixers are completely free, but we happily accept donations at the beverage and goodie bag bars (which are filled with really good goodies!).

All donations go to the evening’s featured rescue, who’ll be in attendance, along with a few sweet adoptables who’ve come just to meet you!

• RSVP to publisher@spotmagazine.net • Type “We’ll be there!” in the subject line AND Name, phone, and # of participating dogs • To make your entry donation by Visa or Mastercard, please type “call me for payment” (we’ll give you a call and get you in!)

• Event day is cash only Magazine

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| SEPTEMBER 2009

19

Live Green

The scoop on poop

Pick it up!

Vonnie Harris • Spot Magazine

D

id you know that in Clark County alone there are over 103-THOUSAND dogs? AND did you know that the average dog leaves 23 piles of poop EACH WEEK? AND that the weight of all dog waste produced in Clark County is 6,000 TONS a year . . . the equivalent of FIFTEEN Boeing 747s!

With two dogs and a growing pet-sitting business, my days are filled with it — dog poop. Of all the joy dogs bring, scooping poop ranks as the numero uno most unpleasant responsibility of owning one.

I won’t deny that I have been guilty of being occasionally “bagless” on outings with my fur monsters. When the days become shorter and the weather turns colder, my backyard can turn into a hazard zone. Before meeting Elena Cronin, Clark County Clean Water Outreach Coordinator, and learning about the county’s Canines for Clean Water program, I was like many who just don’t realize the negative impact of not always picking up after my pets.

A little bit of pet waste can add up in a hurry when left behind in yards, paths, streets and parks.

When it rains, the poop “melts,” and the runoff washes down the nearest storm drain — directly into the stream, river, lake, wetland and seawater — untreated.

Besides negatively blemishing the beauty of the landscape and directly affecting water quality, this waste contains lots of nasty bacteria with almost unpronounceable

20 SPOT MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2009

The weight of all dog waste produced in Clark County per year is equivalent to FIFTEEN Boeing 747s!

names: fecal coli form, E. Coli, salmonella, giardia and Cryptosporidium, to name a few. All sorts of parasites, pathogens and nasty critter bugs that can make humans and animals sick — sometimes very sick.

The theme of Clark County’s Canines for Clean Water program (and other like programs around the country) is very simple; plain, but vital.

1. Scoop the poop.

2. Bag it.

3. Toss it in the garbage.

The best, most environmentallyfriendly way to handle dog poop is to scoop it up in a plastic bag. Put the bag on your hand like a glove, scoop the poop, slip the bag off inside-out and toss it in the trash.

There are many biodegradable bags on the market, but for the budgetconscious, grocery, dollar store or newspaper bags work just fine.

If stooping and scooping is back-breaking, there are tons of hand-held pooper scoopers available. I discovered some interesting choices for dealing with doggie doodie online. From lemon-scented biodegradable bags to Poop-freeze, a spray that renders the poo frozen can make the task less hateful. Whatever works.

“Getting it into the trash is most important,” says Cronin, “no matter how it’s accomplished.” Another key point — do not flush it down the toilet. Cronin says, “Landfills are designed to handle dog waste and cat litter; septic and sewer systems are not.”

To help keep natural water sources untainted, raise your paw as a responsible dog owner by taking the Clean Water pledge.

You’ll receive a gorgeous blue Canines for Clean Water bandana free, which your pooch can sport around town encouraging other pet-owners to do the same.

Submit a photo of your dog wearing the bandana to the county website and not only will continued pg 26

The Problem With “Free To Good Home” Connie Theil • Spot Magazine

N

o person who advertises “Free To Good Home” when rehoming a companion animal wants to see their pet abandoned, neglected, or sold to research. Sadly, that’s exactly what often happens.

Pets who are given away free often end up used as bait to train fighting dogs, used as breeders in puppy mills, even as snake food.

Heather Hines of Indigo Rescue spoke with Spot recently on the subject. She calls people who get their pets this way “deal shoppers.”

“A ‘deal shopper’ is not likely to feed the animal high-quality food,” says Hines, “and when they get sick, they won’t take them to a vet.”

Hines goes on to say that folks who aren’t willing to pay a fee for a companion animal don’t value the animal, and are very likely to abandon him or her should they develop behavioral or health problems.

Hines says one of the most important things you can do, when placing or re- homing a pet (besides asking a nominal fee) is to visit the home of the prospective adoptee.

If they have a problem with you going to their home, that’s a big red flag, she says. Anyone who adopts out a companion animal should always visit the home.

Pet ownership is serious business. When you take a pet into your home, you are committing 10 to 15 years to their care, including the financial burden.

Our furry friends offer us their loyalty, unconditional love, and friendship.

These things are not free, but they are worth the price! Or, put another way: Priceless.

Connie Theil is a freelance writer, master landscaper, and lifelong animal advocate and rescuer. Previously she served on the Multnomah County Animal Safety Advisory Board, and years ago she and her son helped eradicate greyhound racing in Oregon. Connie has recently returned to Spot, and we’re thrilled to have her back! Contact Connie at carsonlaura@earthlink.net.

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.

Please send resume and letter of intro to: publisher@spotmagazine.net.

No phone calls please.

Magazine

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21

OHS discounts Lab adoption fees Labor Day Weekend Adopt a Labrador or Lab mix from OHS Sept. 4-6 and receive half off adoption fees. On a typical day, OHS has nearly 80 adorable adoptable dogs, including nearly 20 Lab/Lab mixes. Last year 1,722 people visited OHS over Labor Day Weekend, providing forever homes for 130 animals. Details oregonhumane.org.

Meet popular author Garth Stein New York Times bestselling author of The Art of Racing in the Rain, Garth Stein, will settle into a comfortable chair and read aloud to guests of Animal Aid’s upcoming “Telling Tails” event at Furever Pets on NE Broadway in Portland Sept.

11, 8-10pm. Tickets, $25, are available now at AnimalAidpdx.org.

Participating area merchants include host Furever Pets, along with Broadway Books, Great Wine Buys, The Thai Pod, Broadway Floral, and others. Guests will enjoy a reading and book signing with Stein, door prizes, silent auction baskets, “Wag Bags,” complimentary bites and beverages and original music by Amelia Coffey.

22 SPOT MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2009

Proceeds will support the Animal Aid Fund for Veterinary Care, and the shelter’s foster and adoption programs, education and events.

Tickets are limited; advance purchase suggested.

Fine whine and lots to bark about for a great cause Vino and Fido, a fundraising event for the Hood River Adopt-

A-Dog program, is happening Saturday Sept. 12, 12:30-4:30pm.

Tail-wagging activities will include competitive doggie diving in the winery pond, a costume contest, treasure hunt, photo opps, hot dogs on the barbie, a raffle, adoptables and more. Events are happening at set times during the event; check hoodriveradoptadog.org for details; admission is free.

While the event is BYOD (Bring Your Own Dog), those without

Zucchini Overload?

Share it with the pooch It seems even if you only plant one seed, by late summer, zucchini takes over the garden. While great in muffins and bread, it can also be great for the dog bowl. One cup of zucchini has only 20 calories (it’s 95% water), and is a good source of vitamins, minerals and fiber. Zucchini is also a good addition to senior meals as it can boost nutrition without adding to the waistline, and helps them feel a little fuller. If you choose to share this summer bounty with your best friend, please follow the guidelines below: Grate zucchini to break down the cellular structure for easy digestion.

For even better digestion, boil or microwave it briefly. Allow zucchini to cool before serving and pour both juice and vegetables over her normal meal. Do not add salt or pepper.

Start with half the portions below per day to see how your dog digests it, and work up to: 10 lb. dog: 1 tablespoon per day 20 lb. dog 2 tablespoons per day 40 lb. dog 1/4 cup per day 80 lb. dog 2/3 cup per day The amounts are small, so it may not use your entire stockpile. If you have an abundance of zucchini or tomatoes to share, please contact a local food bank, but certainly save some for your dog.

Rick Woodford of DogStew was featured at Spot’s Mutt Mixer in August, demonstrating preparation of his Bacon Yappetizers, created just for the event. For this yummy recipe and to tap into Rick’s wealth of expertise on pet food, check out his blog at http://dogfooddude.blogspot.com/.

canines are also welcome. Hood River Adopt-A-Dog is a nonprofit all-volunteer organization caring for adoptable dogs at Hukari Animal Shelter.

Dove’s huge September harvest of fun There’s a ton of fun on tap with Portland’s DoveLewis this month, all with an opportunity to boost its efforts in outreach, education, blood bank and medical services.

The Westie Walk is happening Sept. 12 at 10am (registration at 9) at Wallace Park at NW 25th and Raleigh. Admission $20/dog; register online at dovelewis.org.

The Tour de Lab, a bicycle tour of the three Lucky Lab brewpubs, is happening Sept. 13. The tour features an 18-mile loop and a 40-mile Big Dog course. Riders will collect doggie gear at each rest stop — tail, ears and noses — and once in full gear get to relax and enjoy the dog days of summer with a Tour de Lab pint (and keep the commemorative glass).

The big one, Dogtoberfest, is Sept. 26, 11-5, at Lucky Lab, 915 SE Hawthorne in Portland, when dirty dogs are invited to get scrubbed up while their people enjoy celebrity scrubbers at work, lunch, entertainment and a beverage.

Details on these and other Dove events and workshops in the FunPlanner and at dovelewis.org.

Mani/Pedi for bunny? Yes! The Rabbit Advocates of Portland, a group devoted to the welfare of domestic rabbits, holds its monthly adoption outreach Saturday Sept.

12, noon-3, at Western Pet Supply in Beaverton. In addition to offering conversation/info about rabbit care and adoption, the advocates groom and trim bunnies’ nails.

If taking yours, please also take

clean bath towels and grooming tools if possible; donations appreciated. Details adoptarabbit.org or 503.617.1625.

Greenhill Humane begins a 5-week CGC course Sept. 18 at 6pm at the shelter. The program rewards dogs for good manners at home and in the community, and is designed to teach responsible dog ownership and to help pups become reliable, well-behaved members Circle the date for Willamette Humane’s of their families and annual Bowser’s Boo Bash Saturday Oct. 3, communities. Space 4:30-9:30pm, at the Salem Conference Center. is limited; RSVP to WHS’s signature annual fundraiser, the Bash 541.689.1503. features a gourmet meal, musical entertainment silent and live auctions with awesome goodies Calling all on the block, including unique, knock-yoursuperheroes socks-off excursions, jewelry, wine, family fun packages, romantic getaways, golf excursions, The DoveLewis tickets for theatre and sporting events, and pet- Blood Bank is one themed gift baskets. of the largest comProceeds enable WHS to care for more munity-based blood than 10,000 animals each year and match banks in the nation, adoptables with loving families. Admission ($60) providing over 600 includes food and beverage; tickets available transfusions a year. through Sept. 24 at willamettehumane.org or Blood donor dogs are 503.585.5900 ext. 660. called Superheroes, and they’re always in great demand.

Oldsters need Potential Superheroes who have special care their blood typed at DoveLewis now Greenhill Humane Society through Sept. 25 enter their families in Eugene presents Caring for into a drawing for a weekend stay at Senior Pets Sept. 17, 6-9pm, at a pet-friendly hotel on the Oregon Coast. The winner will be announced the shelter.

Sept. 26. To schedule blood-typing, Special care is just what the doctor ordered to ensure older pets enjoy long, happy lives, even as they experience the physical and emotional changes of later life. Learn what your senior pet may be experiencing and how you can enhance their golden years through good nutrition, medical care, exercise and TLC. End of life decisions will also be discussed.

Cost $15; RSVP required — call 541.689.1503 ext. 116.

Bowser’s Boo Bash Coming up

contact bloodbank@dovelewis.org or 971.255.5920.

The need for new blood donor dogs is desperate. The folks at Dove say their donor base has been depleted mostly by advances in the science of blood typing. Due to strict new guidelines, DoveLewis must “type” more dogs to find as many qualified candidates as possible.

Everybody in the pool!

Humane Society for SW Washington hosts its 3rd annual Doggie Dive Saturday Sept. 26, 10-2 at Lake Shore Athletic Club. Admission is $10/dog; big dogs have their own big pool, with a smaller one for the little guys. Details southwesthumane.org.

Salem night out the cat’s meow Salem Friends of Felines hosts its annual fundraising dinner Sept. 26, 5:30-9, at the Keizer Renaissance Inn. Admission is $50 and includes dinner catered by the hotel and the good company of animal advocates. On the auction block will be vacation packages, a pet trust legal document, restaurant gift cards, art, continued next page

Good dogs make for good communities Good manners — in people and in pets — just make life better, and Eugene-area pet parents can do their part by obtaining AKC Good Citizen Certification (CGC).

SPOT MAGAZINE

| SEPTEMBER 2009

23

continued from previous page

cosmetics and more. SFOF is a nonprofit shelter, adoption center and thrift store in downtown Salem, OR that annually provides a safe haven for over 500 abused, abandoned and injured cats and kittens.

Proceeds support SFOF’s distribution of spay/neuter coupons in its effort to reduce overpopulation.

Donations and volunteers are always welcome.

Details 503.362.5611 or sfof.org.

Affordable feline adoptions in Eugene Greenhill Humane Society is working to make it easier to bring a kitty home. This month Greenhill’s adoption fees for all cats and kittens are $65. The organization has also revived Feline Fridays; all cat adoptions are just $35 every Friday in September (kittens $50).

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24 SPOT MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2009

Pilots helping thousands at a time Pilots N Paws, an online forum connecting animal rescue groups and volunteer pilots, is launching Pilots N Paws 5000, the largest pet airlift ever. The program aims to transport 5000 homeless animals in a single week, Sept. 12-20.

“The goal . . . is to increase awareness about different ways people can help animals in need, whether by providing air transportation, becoming a foster home or general volunteering,” says Jon Wehrenberg, co-founder of Pilots N Paws.

“It’s a unique way for people to donate their time and talent to a very worthy cause.”

According to the National Council on Pet Population, 9.6 million shelter animals are needlessly euthanized each year. The aim of Pilots N Paws is to decrease this number by connecting shelters and rescue groups with pilots willing to transport animals to safe homes.

Through the Pilots N Paws website, rescuers and foster homes in high-kill areas can connect with no-kill shelters that might give animals a chance. The sending and receiving pair then teams with a volunteer pilot who provides transportation during this special rescue week.

Pilots, short- and long-term fosters, and general volunteers are needed. Other ways to help the effort include spreading the word to area shelters, making a tax-deductible cash donation, and adopting. Details pilotsnpaws.org.

WAG more, Camilla Mortensen • Spot Magazine

B

y 8am every weekday, the lobby of the Willamette Animal Guild (WAG) Spay and Neuter Clinic starts to fill with people and their pets. “We get a range of people, old and young,” says Kathy Ford, WAG’s treasurer and one of many hands-on people keeping WAG going. People look to WAG for a low-cost fix to the problem of the thousands of unwanted cats and dogs in Lane County. “Cats can have three to four litters a year,” says Ford, “if they’re hell-bent on doing that. Two is minimal.”

Thanks to WAG, sometimes as many as 500 cats and dogs are spayed in a month. The clinic performs about 20 to 25 surgeries in a day and has spayed about seven thousand animals in its one and a half years of existence, preventing tens of thousands of unwanted cats and dogs.

The clinic targets low-income pet owners, providing surgeries under $50 for cats and $75- $90 for dogs. If owners can’t afford this, WAG points them to groups who might subsidize the surgery, like Stray Cat Alliance, or Lane County Animal Services, which has a program for Pits and Bullie breeds. Surprisingly, most dogs in for surgery aren’t Pits, despite the fact that the breed dominates at local animal shelters. Ford says most dogs in for spay/neuter surgery are actually Chihuahuas.

WAG also offers a feral cat special: $40 gets the kitty fixed, vaccinated, treated for fleas and its ears tipped — marking the cat as altered. Ford says the clinic hopes to add tattoos in the future to mark non-feral cats and dogs and prevent unneeded surgeries on spayed animals.

After they’re checked in, dogs are examined immediately, while cats wait in crates and boxes in gender-separate cat rooms. Feral cats’ crates are draped with sheets to keep them dark, quiet and cozy. The clinic, Ford says, can always use donated sheets.

Because the clinic is low cost, Ford says the animals don’t get a pre-anesthesia blood test, but they are checked for fitness for surgery. Older animals and those with heart murmurs receive an alternate anesthetic. “We’re very proud of our record,” Ford says.

“We’ve lost fewer than seven lives, and most of those were ferals.”

It’s difficult to get near most feral cats, many of which were captured in humane traps provided by WAG. “We can’t do much of an exam on them,” says Ford.

reproduce less The surgical suite is designed to move animals through quickly and carefully, because as Ford says, “It’s not speed, it’s efficiency we’re aiming for.”

Animals first go to the prep table in the surgical area where they are shaved, scrubbed and set up before being put under. Then the animal moves to one of two surgical tables.

“Optimal working procedure,” says Ford, “is one animal on each table.”

Ford says WAG’s equipment is state of the art, pointing to pulse and oxygen monitors.

After surgery, animals are moved to a comfy bed on heated rice pads on the floor, coming to under the watchful eye of volunteers and veterinarian Bernie Robe, who can see the entire suite, from prep to recovery, from his place at the operating table.

Robe is the second vet to take the job at WAG. The clinic runs with just one vet and one certified veterinary technician. If one is missing, surgeries can’t be done that day. Ford says vet tech Jenn Brown is indispensable, likening her to a surgical nurse. “The doctor is obviously the surgeon, but the surgical nurse is the heart and soul,” she says.

It’s extremely difficult to find a replacement, even temporarily, for either the tech or the surgeon.

“Most vets are not used to standing on their feet doing 20 to 25 surgeries a day,” says Ford. She says to work at a spay/neuter clinic like WAG, “You have to have some kind of mission-consciousness.”

The small staff, consisting of been moved from recovery beds to Robe, Brown, an office manager kennels to complete their recovery. and two vet assistants —Barb Owners start arriving at the end of Gunther and Vanessa Horner — is the day to pick up their pets, taking home aftercare bolstered by instructions to a group of WAG performs keep animals dedicated 20-25 surgeries quiet and volunteers and a day and has wounds dry. board members like Ford. Tasks spayed about Ford says like assembling seven thousand WAG office surgical instrumanager Kim ments, laundry animals in its one Roblyer has one and house- and a half years, of the most diffikeeping can be preventing tens cult jobs because performed by of thousands of she has to deal anyone. Like unwanted cats with all the calls surgery, WAG — some funny, and dogs. has designed some sad. “You the process to have to decibe efficient and pher between cost-effective, with everything what people say and what they labeled and organized. want,” says Ford, and sometimes Ford says people might think you just have to let them talk for they’d get bored, but that “surgery awhile. Many people, she says, call is life or death every time. You never for low-cost veterinary services, not just spay and neuter. “And we’re not know what is going to happen.”

Vet assistant Gunther says, “It set up for that. It’s heartbreaking.”

Still, at the end of a long workday, feels like you are saving lives every day,” and points out that spaying the small staff takes satisfaction in or neutering a pet prevents not knowing that WAG is sending home only unwanted animals that could two dozen more animals who’ll be be euthanized later, but also dis- happier, healthier, and who won’t eases like testicular and mammary contribute to Oregon’s already overcrowded animal shelters. cancer.

By about 2:30 all the surgeries are finished and the animals have 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.

SPOT MAGAZINE

| SEPTEMBER 2009

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continued from pg 20

ADOPTION / RESCUE Multnomah County Animal Services . . . . . . . . . . . 11

HOTELS Ester Lee Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Fireside Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

BOARDING / DAYCARE Countryside Pet Spa . . . . . . . . . 12 Critter Comfort ‘N Care . . . . . . . 19 Fetch Pet Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Laurel Acres Kennels . . . . . . . . . 21 Play & Chase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS, LESSIONS, MORE Portland Music Company . . . . . . 24

CAT/DOG WASH Fetch Pet Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 The Pet Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 CREMATION / MEMORIALS Dignified Pet Services . . . . . . . . . 7 Loved Forever Pet Memorials . . 13 DAYCARE / PET SITTING Critter Comfort ‘n Care . . . . . . . . 19 Countryside Pet Spa . . . . . . . . . 12 Doggie Dilemma Pet Care . . . . . 21 Fetch Pet Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Play & Chase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 EVENTS Bowser’s Boo Bash Salem . . . . . . 2 Doggie Palooza . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Mutt Mixers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Jantzen Beach Pet Spook-tacular 11 Wildcat Haven Big Cat Bash . . . 13 GIFTS / FASHION / SPECIALTY Bi-Mart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Cycle-Dog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Loved Forever Pet Memorials . . 13 The Pet Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 GROOMING - EUG/SPNG Grooming Dales . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 HEALTH & WELLNESS Animal Allergy & Ear Clinic . . . . 15 Back on Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

26 SPOT MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2009

PET FOOD / SUPPLIES Bi-Mart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Snowfire Farm — distributor of healthy pet foods . . . . . . . . 17 Solid Gold NW Holistic Products for Pets . . . . . . . . . . 15 The Pet Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 PHOTOGRAPHY Good Dog Photo . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 PRODUCTS Cycle-Dog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Pet Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 SERVICE ANIMALS Dogs with a Cause . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Providence Lifeline . . . . . . . . . . 13 SOCIAL / PET NETWORKING pdxdog.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 SPAY/NEUTER Lane County Animal Services Pet Spay/Neuter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 TRAINING Dogs with a Cause . . . . . . . . . . . 21 VACATION RENTALS Ester Lee Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Idyllic Beach House . . . . . . . . . . 13 VETERINARIANS / VET HOSPITALS Animal Allergy and Ear Clinic . . . 15 Best Care Animal Hospital . . . . . . 7 Best Friends Veternary MC . . . . 21 Good Neighbor Vet . . . . . . . . . . 19 Rose City Vet Hospital . . . . . . . . . 9

your baby’s picture be posted for all to see, also you’ll receive a Stoop Stool pooper-scooper (again, free!). Plus, each month, five lucky pooch parents will win a bone-shaped poop bag-holder that clips right onto the leash. It’s cute, and you’ll never be caught “bagless” again.

Scooping poop has a major A little bit of pet “ewww” factor to it. Nobody wants to see it, touch it, smell waste can add it, step in it, have their family or pets play in it, or HAVE IT GO up in a hurry.

INTO THEIR WATERWAYS. When it rains, the poop Scoop, bag and toss . . . take “melts,” and the runoff the pledge today. washes down the To take the Clean Water nearest storm drain — pledge or for more information, visit cleanwaterdogs.com. Look directly into the stream, for Buddy the Clean Water Dog river, lake, wetland and and his sidekick Siggy in upcomseawater — untreated. ing comic strips!

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.

continued from pg 17

Other businesses were leaving the shopping center at that time, but because for her a new site required customization, Watters tried to work things out. Her search for a new location was proving fruitless, and with the landlord’s unwillingness to budge on the lease, she defaulted, triggering eviction proceedings.

The long, constant struggle took its toll. Watters remembers thinking, “I’m going to stop. I’m not going to do it . . . I’m done with landlords.” Doggy Delight closed April 11 of this year.

“I walked away with a huge appreciation for dogs,” says Watters. “This is a great city for dogs. There are so many, and you don’t realize it until you serve the community. I’m proud of everything I did and having a newborn on top of everything.”

Emerging from her extraordinary personal journey through these trying economic times, Watters wears the stripes of dazzling highs and devastating lows. Still reeling from the ride, Watters is taking a break from the entrepreneurial life. But with her business acumen and drive, it seems likely that before long this talented businesswoman will be back in the storm’s eye.

For now, she says, she’s simply “enjoying the farm.”

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

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.

DOG GROOMING EUG/SPRINGFIELD

Grooming-Dales (Dee) 28 West Q St. #F Springfield (541) 726-PETS (7387) With 30 Years of Quality Care

BOARDING $25/DAY AJ’S K9 KAMP Visit the photo page on www.ajsk9kamp.com. Day care & overnight home care. Canines under 30 lbs. Nr the airport.

15 yrs exp. Licensed. Insured. 7am - 8pm 503-252-7652.

DAYCARE See AJ’s K9 Kamp under Boarding 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 WHAT IS YOUR PET DOING ALL DAY? Chewing, Digging, Barking Bored and Missing You. Call A LUCKY DOG. 1-800GO-LUCKY

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

FOSTER CARE 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.

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

HELP WANTED 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.

SW/Capitol Hill/Surrounding routes available. To apply, call call 503.261.1162.

HELP WANTED! EASTSIDE PDX 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 long-term potential.

Please send resume and letter of intro to publisher@spotmagazine.net. No phone calls please.

GROOMER WANTED T-Sat, Exp, detail oriented, neat and friendly.

Please call Liana Mon-Fri 503-291-0010 VETERINARY TECH WANTED Lane County Animal Services is looking for a highly skilled Veterinary Tech to join our team. The successful candidate must have a passion for helping homeless, abused and neglected animals and have a desire to work in a progressive animal shelter. Our team requires commitment to saving adoptable and treatable animals. We need an experienced individual who enjoys working with a team and is able to meet challenges with a positive attitude. To view our informational flyer: http:www.lanecounty.org/HHS/ documents/AS_Vet_Tech.pdf. To apply for this position, please visit our jobs page at www.lanecounty.org/jobs. This position closes on Monday, September 21st at 5:00 p.m.

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.

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 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.

PET SITTING 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 LISA & FRIENDS PET SITTING Quality pet care in a comfortable home environment at great prices. In-home visits also available. All pets welcome. Refs. 503490-3762 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 888-311-OTTO (6886).

VACATION RENTALS Mohawk River B & B is located on two fenced acres on the banks of the Mohawk River, approximately 18 miles north of Springfield or 18 miles from Crawfordsville. Vacation with your pet and enjoy the country setting. Walk in the gardens, sit by the river or pond.

541.933.3940.

SPOT MAGAZINE

| SEPTEMBER 2009

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SEPT • 2009

1 tuesday

• Affordable feline adoptions in Eugene. Greenhill offers reduced feline adoption fees this month. Details green-hill.org.

• Beat the Heat Feline Fix-aThon through Sept. 4. CAT is offering subsidized spay/neuter surgeries. Get your cat fixed for $20 (spay) or $10 (neuter).

Details catagoptionteam.org.

• September is National Preparedness month. If you

have pets you need an emergency kit. Check out these tips and make time to be ready for anything: catadoptionteam.org/programsresources/disaster-preparedness/.

5:30pm — 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 & Sept. 12, 15 & 26. Training classes offered Tues-Fri. Details oregonhumane.org.

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Music, beverages and bites, with your best (4-legged) friend!

Mutt Mixers First Thursday Social Hour

Oct 1, 2009 • 6-8 pm Halloween Costume Contest!

Hotel Monaco

5th & Washington Downtown Portland

featured on

Details 503.261.1162 Great fun for a good cause!

28 SPOT MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2009

2 wednesday

5pm — Foster Care Orientation at Greenhill Humane in Eugene.

Learn about Greenhill’s foster care program, why animals are placed in foster care, if fostering is right for you, and what to expect.

Details green-hill.org. RSVP required: 541.689.1503.

3 thursday

Noon — Grief Support Group at DoveLewis in the Pearl. Details dovelewis.org.

6:05pm — What are you doing this weekend? Tune in on the fly to 1450 AM Radio, the KPSU Family Show for Spot Magazine’s report on weekend events for pets & their people.

4 friday

• Call of the Wild Canine Summer Camp starts. Activities include river games, forest agility, Tug Time & more. Details citydogcount rydogtraining.com.

• OHS discounts Lab adoption fees Labor Day Weekend. Details oregonhumane.org.

5 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 Woodburn Petsense ‘til 4. Meet sweet, adoptable dogs.

11am — OHS Adoption Outreach at Tigard PetSmart ‘til 3 and at Furever Pets, 1902 NE Broadway, noon-4.

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 tomorrow, Labor Day, and the weekends of Sept. 12, 19 & 26.

Noon — Adoption day at Furever Pets ‘til 4.

Noon — The Cat Food Bank is open ‘til 2:30 at CAT’s Sherwood shelter. The food bank provides cat food for cat owners in financial need. Over 13,000 lbs of cat food distributed since June 08.

2pm —Ask-a-Trainer at Greenhill Humane Society in Eugene.

Certified Dog Trainer Nancy Yamin, owner of Mutts Better (muttsbetter.com), is on site at Greenhill the first Saturday of every month 2-4 to answer questions on basic obedience & behavior modification. Tap into Yamin’s expertise & experience to solve everyday issues. Free.

7pm — Pink Martini and the 234th Army Band perform Oregon!

Oregon! to help celebrate the state’s 150th birthday. In addition to the play, both bands will also be performing their own sets of music. Details oregonzoo.org.

6 sunday

11am — Canine Sunday Playgroup at Opportunity Barks in Pleasant Hill. Brand new facility boasts fun inside & out.

Pups must be neutered/spayed & current on shots. Enjoy homemade goodies, coffee and good company. Admission $5; details opportunitybarks.com .

11:30am — Bearen Foundation’s big event of the year, the Pet Stroll, happening in conjunction with the Eugene Celebration.

Visit BearenFoundation.org for details.

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

10 thursday

9am — Grief Support Group at DoveLewis in the Pearl. Details dovelewis.org.

Admission $25 donation. Details animalaidpdx.org.

10am — Dog Fest ’09 ‘til 3, at Chemeketa Community College in Salem. A day of fun, games, treats (human & canine), exhibits, free materials & demos. Admission free for humans, $3 for dogs, which includes a complimentary bandana, a goodie bag & participation in games & events.

Contests for prizes include best costume, look-alike, best trick, biggest/littlest dog and more.

Also a raffle, CGC testing, K9 cop

Noon — Adoption day at Furever Pets ‘til 4.

Noon — The Rabbit Advocates at Western Pet Supply in Beaverton.

Conversation/info about rabbit care & adoption, and grooming for visiting bunnies. Details adoptarabbit.org.

12:30pm — Finicky Feline class at Oregon Humane in Portland. Free; details oregonhumane.org.

demos, agility course & more.

Details in Fetch, co.marion.or.us/ PW/DogControl/dogfest or 503.566.6966.

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

11am — Foster Care Orientation at Greenhill Humane in Eugene.

Learn about Greenhill’s foster care program, why animals are placed in foster care, if fostering is right for you, and what to expect.

Details green-hill.org. RSVP required: 541.689.1503.

12:30pm — Vino and Fido fundraising event for the Hood River Adopt-A-Dog program in Hood River. Doggie diving in the winery pond, a costume contest, treasure hunt, photo opps & more. Details in Fetch or hoodriveradoptadog.org.

Spot’s Vonnie Harris proudly displays Jessie’s blue ribbon for her 14.7 foot jump at the Clark County Fair.

6:05pm — What are you doing this weekend? Tune in on the fly to 1450 AM Radio, the KPSU Family Show for Spot Magazine’s report on weekend events for pets & their people.

11 friday

10am — Multi-Shelter Adopta-Thon. Shelters nationwide are shooting to find homes for nearly 19,000 pets in need this weekend. Portland is doing its part by uniting five of the largest animal welfare agencies for the Pets of Dream Adopta-Thon under the big top at the Clackamas PetSmart 10-5 through Sept. 13. The “barking lot” will have 50/50 adoption specials, promotions, gifts & more.

8pm — Telling Tails, a benefit for Animal Aid, featuring Garth Stein, bestselling author of The Art Of Racing in the Rain, at Furever Pets in Portland.

Hightlights: reading & signing

by Stein, refreshments, wine tasting, live music & treats

by Stam and Wag Bags.

12 saturday

• Portland Great Dane Community hosts Danes on the Beach.

Details pdxdanes.com.

8am — Huge annual “Pet and People Products” fund-raising Parking Lot Sale (including Schwann’s Foods) at We Suds ‘Em, 192 West 11th (at Charnelton) in Eugene for Stop Pet Overpopulation Today to fund spay/neuters for low-income residents of Lane County.

9am — Run with the Dogs at Lake Oswego Petco. Red Lizard Running Club teams with Multnomah County Animal Services to take adoptable dogs for a jog. Afterward, the dogs are available for adoption 10-noon.

9am — Westie Walk at Wallace Park, NW 25th & Raleigh in Portland. Registration 9 ($20/dog); walk begins at 10.

Online registration available at dovelewis.org. Hundreds of West Highland Terriers take their owners out for a 1.5-mile walk and lots of attention. Dogs who are friends of Westies also welcome.

13 sunday

9am — Ride for the Paws with Oregon Humane in Portland.

Half-day motorcycle ride. Details oregonhumane.org.

10am —Tour de Lab, an 18-mile bicycle tour stopping at Lucky Lab brew pubs in Portland (a 40-mile Big Dog course is also running).

Details tourdelab.com.

SPOT MAGAZINE

| SEPTEMBER 2009

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1pm — Memorial Art Community Workshop at DoveLewis, 1945 NW Pettygrove in Portland.

Families 1-2:30, ages 16-adult 3-4:30. Enid Traisman MSW facilitates. Create 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.

15 tuesday

9am — Senior Safari at the Oregon Zoo ‘til 3. Seniors and their companions get in free today and can enjoy train rides, refreshments, the petting zoo, animal talks, live music and entertainment by seniors. Details 503.226.1561 or oregonzoo.org.

7pm — Grief Support Group at DoveLewis in the Pearl. Details dovelewis.org.

16 wednesday

at Bridgeport Village. Details oregonhumane.org.

17 thursday

6pm — Caring for Senior Pets workshop at Greenhill Humane in Eugene. Details in Fetch or greenhill.org.

6:05pm — What are you doing this weekend? Tune in on the fly to 1450 AM Radio, the KPSU Family Show for Spot Magazine’s report on weekend events for pets & their people.

7pm — Grief Support Group at DoveLewis in SE Portland. Details dovelewis.org.

18 friday

6pm — AKC Good Citizen Certification class at Greenhill in Eugene. Details in Fetch or 541.689.1503.

7pm — Grief Support Group at DoveLewis in the Pearl. Details dovelewis.org.

• Bridgeport Yappy Hour with LexiDog & Oregon Humane

Sept 3, 2009: Lew Church and Ron Peterson on Central City Concern, Transitional Projects and housing issues.

Sept 10, 2009: Grace Reed, Negotiating Shadows, and Delaram H. A. on the persecution of the Bahai people in Iran, the world’s most recent religion, an offshoot of Islam.

Sept 17, 2009: Brett Weed, Vice President, Children’s Rights Council, Oregon Chapter, re having his children abducted to Japan, even though he is the custodial parent.

Sept 24, 2009: Sonja Harju with an update on the 2009 Oregon Legislative Session.

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

30 SPOT MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2009

19 saturday

9am — New Volunteer Orientation at the Marion County Dog Shelter in Salem. Details 503.566.6966 or sheard@co.marion.or.us.

10am — DOGAPALOOZA at the Cowlitz County Fairgrounds.

Costume & other contests, treadmill training, wiener dog races, k9 cop demos, fashion show & more. Admission is free; races & contests have a $5 entry fee. Proceeds benefit The Humane Society of Cowlitz County. Details 888.780.3159 or doug@thedogzone.net.

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

10:15am — Good Puppy Class with Nancy Yamin at Amazon Community Center in Eugene.

For puppies 9-17 weeks. Learn the principles of positive training and the stages of development while your puppy learns basic commands and manners in a positive, fun way, getting in a little socialization while you’re at it. Four-part series; first class humans only. Details MuttsBetter.com. Cost $80.

11am — Adoption Outreach with Marion County Dog Shelter at Salem Saturday Market ‘til 3. Meet sweet, adoptable dogs.

11:30am — Sit, Stay, Good Dog! workshop at Amazon Community Center in Eugene. Nancy Yamin presents a series covering basic skills in a fun way. Learn the principles of positive dog training. Five Saturdays; first session humans only. Details muttsbetter.com or 541.485.8001.

Cost $110.

Noon — Responsible Dog Ownership Day at Hillsboro Petco ‘til 4. Join the fun & celebrate the AKC’s birthday with Responsible Dog Ownership Day festivities.

CGC testing by appointment, educational materials, demos, adoptions, games & contests and more. Details 503.640.4449 or 503.380.4579.

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

Details oregonhumane.org.

2pm — OHS Adoption Outreach at Rose City Veterinary Clinic, 809 SE Powell Blvd in Portland ‘til 6.

20 sunday

10am — Doggie Palooza celebrates all things dog. The World Forestry Center welcomes all well-behaved dogs to this fun-filled pet fair where visitors and their canine companions can howl in delight while sniffing out new toys, sampling tasty treats, and making new friends. Details worldforestry.org.

10:30am — T-Touch for Dogs at Oregon Humane in Portland.

T-Touch is a relaxation method/ positive approach to training that can improve performance, health & behavior. Details oregonhumane.org.

12:30pm — Loose Leash Walking class with Nancy Yamin at 5th Street Market in Eugene. Two Sundays.

Details/RSVP muttsbetter.com or 541.485.8001. Cost $50.

1pm — Portland Great Dane Community meetup at Clackamas Park. Details pdxdanes.com.

23 wednesday

Noon — Responsible Dog Ownership Day at Tualatin Petco ‘til 4. Join the fun & celebrate the AKC’s birthday with Responsible Dog Ownership Day festivities. CGC testing by appointment, educational materials, demos, adoptions, games & contests and more.

Details 503.885.9224 or 503.380.4579.

24 thursday

6:05pm — What are you doing this weekend? Tune in on the fly to 1450 AM Radio, the KPSU Family Show for Spot Magazine’s report on weekend events for pets & their people.

26 saturday

• NW Air Dog event in Seaside.

Northwest Challenge features swimming, biking, triathlon & more. Details northwestchallenge.com.

10am — Everybody in the pool! at Lake Shore Athletic Club to benefit the Humane Society for SW Washington. Details in Fetch or southwesthumane.org.

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

10am — World Animal Festival at the Oregon Zoo. A showcase of how various cultures around the world revere & celebrate animals. Animal folklore presented through performance art, hands-on crafts, educational activities & art exhibits. Details oregonzoo.org.

11am — Dogtoberfest at Lucky Lab Brew Pub, 915 SE Hawthorne in Portland ‘til 5.

Bring your dirty dog to Lucky Lab and they’ll go home squeaky clean! Meet local celebrities doing the dirty work. Enjoy beverages & live entertainment.

Suggested donation $5/dog wash. Details dovelewis.org.

11am — Adoption Outreach with Marion County Dog Shelter at Petco on Lancaster ‘til 4. Meet sweet, adoptable dogs.

11am — Responsible Dog Ownership Day at Beaverton Petco ‘til 4. Join the fun & celebrate the AKC’s birthday with Responsible Dog Ownership Day festivities.

CGC testing by appointment, educational materials, demos, adoptions, games & contests and more. Details 503.644.6558 or 503.380.4579.

1pm — Portland Great Dane Community participates in the 27th annual Teddy Bear Parade in Gresham. Details pdxdanes.com.

5:30pm — Salem Friends of Felines’ annual fundraising dinner at the Keizer Renaissance Inn in Salem.

Details in Fetch, 503.362.5611 or sfof.org.

27 sunday

10am — OHS Adoption Outreach at Hillsboro Farmers Market at Orenco Station ‘til 2.

11am — Adoption Outreach with Marion County Dog Shelter at Salem PetsMart ‘til 4. Meet sweet, adoptable dogs.

11am — Rabies, License & Microchip Clinic at Multnomah County Animal Services, 1700 W. Columbia River Hwy in Troutdale ‘til 3. Rabies vaccine $10; microchip $20; license fees vary.

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

28 monday

6:30pm — Understanding Your Dog workshop at DoveLewis, 1945 NW Pettigrove in Portland. Understand what your pooch is saying: a dog yawn can mean more than fatigue, and avoidance of eye contact sends a message too. Led by Heather Toland, MAEE, CVT, Dove’s Animal Assisted Therapy & Education Director. Free; donations welcome.

RSVP required: dovelewis.org/ giftShop.

CIRCLE THE DATE! Oct 1

Jennifer McCammon was among the many Pet People who gathered to celebrate the retirement of Art last month, the beloved and locally infamous Director of PR (Pet Relations) at Hotel Monaco in downtown Portland. Adopted from OHS, Art worked at the hotel for 4 years, greeting guests, promoting the hotel, and generally brightening the lives of Monaco guests and staff. music, auctions. Tickets available through Sept. 24 at willamettehumane.org or 503.585.5900 ext. 660.

Oct. 10

· Back to the ‘50s Big Cat Bash, Wildcat Haven’s annual bash 6 — Spot Mutt Mixer at Hotel Monaco. for the big cats at the Melody It’s a Wicked Halloween Costume Ballroom in Portland. Auctions, Contest! Mutt Mixers are new on the dinner, drinks & music. Details scene, but already a huge hit with wildcathaven.org. the metro pet community. Circle the date and come out & play! Free.

• Harvest Dash in Hood River.

2 running events and a familyfriendly walk kick off Harvest 4:30pm — Willamette Humane’s Fest, one of the biggest Bowser Bash. Gourmet meal, celebrations in the Gorge. Craft

Oct. 17

& artisan vendors, local produce, food & music. Details george.thomas@pro vidence.org.

Got an upcoming event?

Send by Oct 8 to

editor@Spotmagazine.net

Oct. 3

SPOT MAGAZINE

| SEPTEMBER 2009

31

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