August 2010 - Spot Magazine

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Hiking withMeryl wit Fat Cat? Not cool!

food

Animal House Comfy, beautiful, safe Even with pets

Can the end be made kinder?

LOCA LLY G

ROWN LOCA L OWN LY ED

Yes.

EvErything EvE Ev E rything PE P PEt E t in thE th E n northwEst orthw • AUgUst 2010

Our doctors and team members have devoted themselves to helping people and their animal companions. We embrace the importance of treating each pet as our own and extending the utmost care and progressive treatment.

We believe in the value of preventative medicine and client education.

East Padden Animal Hospital 8611 NE Ward Road #115 Vancouver, WA 98682

360-892-1500

www.eastpaddenanimalhospital.com

Free Physical Exam and Consultation for New Clients.

A $40 value!

One offer per customer. Cannot be combined with other offers.

Photo: Meryl Lipman

17

food

Kennedy Morgan begins a series geared to debunk misconceptions about food options, address the pros and cons and FAQs, and equip you to choose what’s best for your baby.

14 Animal House

Homes with pets endure unique wear and tear, and sometimes must accommodate special needs. Whatever your situation, there are options in design, building and materials to keep your home comfy, beautiful and safe . . . for every inhabitant.

8 Fat Cat? Not cool!

Obesity is a huge concern today, for people and for pets. Vonnie Harris weighs in on the matter and offers tips on getting pets on track for healthier, happier, longer lives.

21 Can the end be made kinder? Yes.

Dr. Lori Gibson is the only Portland-area provider of home euthanasia services.

One of the most frequently-asked questions she hears is, “How do you do that?” Once you get to know her you realize that above all, this extraordinary doctor finds her work rewarding.

10 Rambling Rovers

6

Hiking with Dogs is Great Fun, but be Prepared!

Meryl Lipman offers a great primer for hiking in the Northwest, including great destinations, rules of the road, what to pack, and important dos and don’ts.

Rescue Me!

Meet the precious foundlings who made their way to Spot this month. These are often babies who need an extra boost finding their way home — a little older, sometimes needing special care, often just too long in a shelter or foster home.

25 MarketPlace 25 Classifieds 26 crunchy little newsbits to chew on - K9 Nose Work: the latest in canine learning, competition - Biscuits made from extraordinary ingredients - Vancouver doggy daycare turns 2 - You too can be a winning shooter - Parked cars = OVENS on wheels - Introducing . . . The world’s first live car weather station - OHS says, “There’s a Cat For That” - From the ‘only a matter of time’ file - Too hot out? OHS says “come on in”

13 Tricks of the Trade . . .

One Frame at a Time Calling all Shutterbugs! Class is now in session. Photographer David Childs is here to teach you everything you need to know to shoot winning photos!

7 Matchmaker

Megan Mahan, animal advocate and Willamette Valley intern, has launched a series on the basics of the breeds, covering temperament, common concerns and popular traits and highlighting rescues specializing in each featured breed. This month the Spotlight is on . . . The Chihuahua.

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spot magazine

| august 2010

Our Team Jennifer McCammon Publisher

w Lula & Scout Publisher@SpotMagazine.net

Magazine VOL. 6 • NO. 1 August 2010

Design This!

Interim Art Director

Contributing Writers David Childs Jake Faris Vonnie Harris Meryl Lipman Megan Mahan Jennifer McCammon Kennedy Morgan

Contributing Photographers David Childs Meryl Lipman

Marnie McCammon

GRAPHIC DESIGN

dt.graphics@comcast.net www.dtgraphics.org

Advertising Jenny Kamprath Advertising

Jenny@SpotMagazine.net

Jennifer McCammon Publisher

w Broadway Publisher@SpotMagazine.net

Administration Marnie McCammon Eugene/Springfield Office

Brody Brody was in shelter at the Oregon Humane Society when this photo was taken by David Childs. Brody was a very special boy with smiling eyes that showed off his fun, playful nature.

Attn: Aspiring Shutterbugs!

David Childs, the photographer who captured happy Brody for this month’s cover, is renowned for his artistry and gift for capturing the emotion and “heart” of his subjects. Now you can learn his tricks of the trade! David begins Pet Photography 101 in Spot this issue.

Study with David, submit and share your assignments, and even get a little feedback.

You too can be a great photographer — take your best shot! Details page 13.

spot magazine | august 2010

w/ Zip & Foster Kitten Gage Marnie@SpotMagazine.net 514.741.1242

Vonnie Harris Events, Distribution, Writer w/ Jake Vonnie@SpotMagazine.net 360.903.4174

Jake Faris Webmaster, Writer

w/ Buddy Jake@SpotMagazine.net

Intern Meghan Mahan Intern w/ Smokey

Megan@SpotMagazine.net

Our Mission Companion and working animals are important, beloved members of the family. Spot Magazine is the one-stop resource for information, ideas, and events of interest to these animals and their people.

Our Policies Spot Magazine welcomes opinions and letters to the editor. To be considered for publication, letters should be signed and include the writer’s full name, address, and daytime telephone (for internal use only). Spot reserves the right to edit letters for length and clarity. Mail to: Spot Magazine PO Box 16667 Portland OR 97292; Fax to: 503.261.8945; email to: publisher@spotmagazine.net. Opinions and ideas expressed by writers and/or advertisers herein are not necessarily endorsed by, or necessarily reflect, the opinions of Spot Magazine or Living Out Loud, Inc.

Subscription Rates:

1 year $15; 2 years $25

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

© 2010 Living Out Loud Inc www.SpotMagazine.net SPOT Magazine is printed in Portland, OR on recycled paper.

From the Publisher Photo by Alicia Dickerson • Four Legged Photo

Turning 5 and making strides

Letters Wonderful U-pick patio for dogs Hi Spot people,

Before anything else, a quick shout-out:

Hey, Willamette Valley Pet People!

You’re a huge part of the Spot community! Have you voted yet?

The ballots are open ‘til Sept 30th at SpotMagazine.net.

Top Dog Awards honor pet and pet-friendly organizations named best by popular vote for products, services and performance. This is a great way to say THANK YOU!

Ok, onward. This month there’s much cause for celebration . . . check it out!

Spot’s Transport and Foster Networks are growing! We’re becoming increasingly involved in rescues, and took part in two last month. The first brought 18 cats out of a hoarding situation (story and photos in “Behind the Scenes With Us” the Blog Spot heading on our website). The second involved getting a litter of 8-week-old Pit puppies and six 6-9-month-old Pit and Pit mix pups from So Cal to loving foster homes in the Northwest. Both had happy endings. If you’d like to lend a hand and heart, please sign up online.

On a related note, we’re currently studying regional transport, foster care and shelters, and we’d love to hear from those of you working in shelters and rescues.

We’re working to identify the needs and overlapping resources toward streamlining and maximizing all our efforts. Our goal is to connect existing resources, eliminate redundancy, and improve connections and transparency for all involved — toward saving time, money, and more lives.

If you work in rescue, transport, foster care or shelter, we’d love your input . . . and there’s an app for that! — (not really, I just couldn’t resist using the expression) — but there IS a questionnaire at SpotMagazine.net. Please help Spot help — put your 2 cents in about what’s needed, and what’s not. Thank you!

Yep! They’re underway. Spot Walks are meetups for fun, fitness and socialization — for pets and their peeps! The first few are just for fun, as they’re still officially in development.

BUT, they’re happening, they’re a blast, and we want you to come play!

Smile!

Photo classes start now Spot has partnered with photographer David Childs, who some of you may know from his amazing work on Fences for Fido’s slideshows, as a photo teacher at OHS, or you may even have a framed “David Childs” hanging in a place of honor at home.

This month David begins a series of

photo classes right here, and you are gonna love them! Read all about it page 13, and take a seat . . . class is set to begin.

We’re also pleased to announce that David is Spot’s official photographer for the Portland-area 2011 Cover Model Search.

This year’s search is happening at Doggie Palooza Oct. 24th at the World Forestry Center. On that note, circle the date for Doggie Palooza! In addition to the Cover Model Search and 2 Spot Walks will be a Halloween costume contest, pooch parade, contests and more.

Spot’s Willamette Valley Cover Model Search, conducted this summer

by Spot’s top shooter Marnie McCammon, wraps this month with a last chance to enter at Hot Dogs, Cool Pups Aug. 7 at Alton Baker Park in Eugene. I’ll be there too, so please stop by and say hi!

Finally, in addition to the magazine, Spot’s online media are great ways to stay current on what’s shakin’ at Spot’s House. Fan Spot on Facebook, subscribe to eNews, and/or follow us on Twitter.

In addition to Spot happenings, you’ll get posts on regional pet events, health warnings and food recalls, broadcasts on rescues in progress, and just-for-fun alerts on everything pet. Sign up for one or all, they’re each a little different, so take your pick of the litter!

Much to celebrate. Thanks for being part of the adventure — we love having you along!

Oh, and speaking of celebrating. Last but not least: Spot turns 5 this month!

It’s our great pleasure to serve, work with, and celebrate this special “birthday” with you! Thank you for 5 wonderful years, and here’s to many more!

Just wanted to let you know about a wonderful farm with u-pick berries and other veggies available in their store. This 4th of July we went with our pooch to visit some farms and bring home berries for cobblers and pies!

We found a few farms that were not too crowded, but none allowed our pooch out of the car. Before moving to Oregon we lived in France and you know how the French love to take their pooches everywhere so we’re kind of spoiled.

The last farm we visited was the one we should have visited first.

Lovely big patio next to the store, a grassy area with garden swing benches, tables with umbrellas and comfy patios chairs, and a large sign up front that they are pet friendly and that pooches (ours is Fynn) were welcome to sit on the patio and take in the scene and even get spoiled with ice cream!

They sell beverages, ice cream, berries, and probably more, but we were late and only saw empty plates ;-) The place is Lolich’s Family Farm http://lolichblueberryfarm.com/. If you’re in the area it’s worth a stop!

Christine Bastian via Spot’s House on the web

Did you notice?

We dressed for the occasion — hope you like it!

Yours in everything pet,

spot magazine

| august 2010

M e ! e u c s Re Here’s Lady!

You lookin’ for a sweet, loyal Lady? A mature but playful, eager to please, ready to lie at your feet kind of Lady? Well what do you know . . . I’m Lady, and I’ve been waiting for you! Waiting a long time, in fact, and I’ve traveled far . . . just to find you. So please come meet me, let’s get this family life started. I’m ready to love you, your children, even your other dog . . . as long as they don’t mind me being the boss. I’m not so good with cats or small critters. I am a 7-yr-old, 75 lb. Chesapeak Bay Retriever/German Shepherd mix. Please come meet me!

I’m at Family Dogs New Life, 503-771-5596 or bark@familydogsnewlife.org.

I am a sweet, shy lady looking for a family who will be patient with me as I learn to trust again.

I can be a bit anxious at times, so a home with children 12 or older would be best. I have lived with cats, but wouldn’t say we’re the best of friends! I’ve also lived with another dog and would enjoy the company of a mature dog friend. I am 6-7 yrs old, weigh 55 lbs. and am currently enjoying a break from the shelter at a nice foster home.

Please call Angela @ 503-807-9134 so we can meet!

Beautiful Bella

Sweet Moose

Moose is a big, gentle 3-yr-old 75 lb. Pit Bull/Mastiff mix. He is kind-hearted and good with kids and dogs, but not so much with cats. He does great in the crate/kennel and has excellent house manners. You’ll also love what he’s NOT: not a big barker and doesn’t dig. He loves to sunbathe, sleep under the covers with you, and he knows sit, down and stay! Moose’s adoption fee is $150. He is altered, microchipped, current on shots, and has a collar, leash, dog food, toys and treats.

To learn more or to meet this sweet boy, call Angela @ (503) 888-4583.

Her previous owner, who sadly had to return her to the shelter, says “Kizmin is a sweet, loving cat who enjoys lots of attention and likes being with people. She is playful, full of energy, and eats well. She will thrive in a home with lots of people who give her lots of attention.” She is very lovable and friendly, and a great greeter!

To meet this loving, “helpful” little girl, please contact Cat Adoption Team at (503)-925-8903 or catadoptionteam.org.

Loving Kizmin

Lucky Jones spot magazine | august 2010

Lucky’s been bounced from place to place lately, so he’s a bit out of sorts, and who can blame him!

We believe he just needs an experienced cat person who will provide a calm home and a little love and time to adjust. A quiet, adults-only home with no other pets might just be what this guy needs to be a happy, well adjusted feline. He can be very sweet, and he likes being brushed and talked to. Do you have a quiet place for a gorgeous guy? He’s waiting for that special someone — we know you’re out there! To meet Lucky, please contact Cat Adoption Team at (503) 925-8903 or catadoptionteam.org.

Matchmaker, Matchmaker Spotlight on . . .

Common Health Problems: Many health problems associated with this breed are a result of excess weight. Because they gain easily they need a consistent diet without table scraps.

The

Chihuahua Trademark: Chihuahuas are the smallest breed of dog Personality: Despite their size, Chihuahuas are not just an accessory. They need walks and will challenge big dogs.

They are curious and courageous, with personality plus!

They need consistent training, but will always be your best friend. One issue Chihuahuas may have in family settings is they tend to be preferential of one person and can display jealous behavior toward friends or other family members. This can be averted if they are treated like a dog and not given too many privileges. They can be hyper but mostly want a lot of love time with their humans.

Preferences: The Chihuahua enjoys warmth and does not do well in the cold. They do not need grooming, but do tend to shed.

Size: 2-9 lbs

AVAILABLE

Life expectancy: 15 years or more

MEET

TUCKER! PagePage 27 27 Details

Best Match: The Chihuahua appreciates someone with a lot of time to give. They do not do well left alone for too many hours a day. Not well suited to homes with small children because they are naturally territorial and protective.

Rescues: BC Chihuahua Rescue serves the entire Pacific Northwest. Contact them at bccr@chirescue.org Tip: Try Fostering a Dog from your local rescue or shelter. If he’s a great fit, adopt him. If not, you have saved his life, found him a great home, and realized what you really need in a dog.

Got a question about breed temperament, finding your fit, or the adoption process? Megan’s happy to help! Contact her at Megan@SpotMagazine.net Megan Mahan lives with visiting foster animals, quite a few fish, and her boyfriend in Eugene, Oregon. She has a ‘day job’ in an office, but devotes much of free time to fostering pets and creative writing. From her high school gig as Dog Bather to her more recent years working at the Santa Cruz SPCA, where she was contributing editor of the newsletter, Megan has always lived, loved and worked with an for animals.

spot magazine

| august 2010

Health & Wellness

Got a Fat Cat?

Big Dog?

Paunch IS powerful . . . but not in a good way.

Vonnie Harris • Spot Magazine

of health problems — just as with obese humans — is long, and can prematurely age and even kill.

T

hese terms — Fat Cat, Big Dog — have long been used to describe powerful people, and animals.

Those at the top of their game.

Running the show. Unfortunately, today they’re more often applied literally, describing the state of our beloved pets . . . many of whom are tipping the scales further than is good for them.

How to tell? Dogs’ body types vary depending on breed, but for the most part, you should be able to feel the ribs. “They should have a little bit of a waistline,” says Dr. Chea Hall of Murrayhill Veterinary Hospital in Beaverton, OR. With cats, a rounding of the abdomen is a clear sign of a chunky kitty.

Today, according to the Humane Society of the United States, 40% of dogs and 20-25% of cats are obese, defined as 20% over ideal body weight.

You should be able to feel the ribs and see a little bit of a waistline from above.

spot magazine | august 2010

“

When it comes to excess weight, it’s the same with pets as with humans: it can sneak up on ya!

We notice our own weight getting out of control when struggling to zip up our favorite jeans, but it can be harder to recognize the pounds stacking up on our beloved pets.

“

Some portly pets may look cute for their roundness, but the risks are truly ugly. Imagine the strain on their joints, having to lug all that extra weight around.

Even organs are taxed; they must work much harder to perform their intended functions. The list

Just a few extra pounds on a pet can put his or her health at risk. Consider this: four extra pounds on a Siamese cat is like 45 extra pounds on an average woman. Yikes! Another parallel: a 90-pound female Labrador Retriever is like a 5’ 4” female . . . tippng the scales at 186 pounds.

Problems caused by obesity run the gamut, and can include orthopedic and respiratory problems, metabolic and hormonal disorders, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, urinary dysfunctions, and many forms of cancer. Overweight animals also frequently suffer skin discomforts, compromised immune systems, and increased vulnerability to heat. “It not only decreases their lifespan, but their quality of life as well,” says Dr. Hall.

Genetics can play a role in a pet’s tendency to become overweight. Dog breeds especially at risk include Labs, Beagles, Bulldogs, Pugs, Dachshunds and small Terriers.

Because neutering and spaying both dogs and cats lowers their metabolic rate, they require fewer calories. That, coupled

with hormonal changes, means feeding needs change. Dr. Hall says, “Neutering or spaying in itself does not predispose an animal to obesity; it’s feeding pets the same caloric intake as before they were fixed that causes them to gain.”

As with people, age also plays a role. Middle-aged pets are at greater risk of obesity than youngsters, and females tend to gain more than their male counterparts. Unfair maybe, but true.

The most common culprit in fat pets? Owner behavior. Dogs can’t resist scrumptious table scraps being offered; cats might not stop nibbling if the food bowl is perennially full. Basically, pets won’t intuitively cut back if they begin feeling less than fit and trim.

“There is an emotional connection with mealtime,” says Dr. Hall, adding that the majority of weight problems stem from overfeeding with foods such as treats and table scraps. “A tiny bite of steak is like a 12-ouncer to a Chihuahua,” she points out.

Owners need to look at everything they feed their pet in a day, says Dr. Hall, and find other ways to experience that emotional connection.

The most effective treatment for weight loss? Decreasing caloric intake and increasing physical activity. Sound familiar? Yep! Same old story.

Do have your pet checked by a veterinarian before embarking on a nutrition and/or fitness regime to rule out underlying medical causes of weight gain. And since obesity increases the workload on his heart, it’s vital to know his tolerance for exercise.

Dr. Hall says your vet will be able to target your pet’s ideal weight for optimum health and how much she should be eating — whatever you’re currently feeding her. The adage, ‘you are what you eat’ holds true for our four-legged friends, so make sure you’re feeding complete, balanced, high-quality food.

“Foods high in fiber will make them feel fuller,” says Dr. Hall, explaining that can help them feel satisfied with less. She recommends scheduled rather than free-feeding (especially for cats) and making mealtime a game. Using Kongs or food bowls with obstacles requiring them to work a little can be helpful for pets who would otherwise bolt their food.

And treats? No, they needn’t be

eliminated. Dr. Hall suggests: the ‘break-in-half’ (or thirds or more) reward system.

Just like people, pets need and thrive with exercise. And it’s easy (and fun!) with a willing, enthusiastic exercise buddy. Get out and walk, play catch, fetch balls. Cats enjoy playing too, with or without cat toys. Swatting rolled-up paper or running up and down on a cat tree burns calories.

“Small changes will make a huge difference,” says the doctor.

Depending on the amount of excess weight, some dogs may tire more quickly, so it’s best to start slow. Swimming is an excellent option. Being in water supports their body weight, reducing the impact on joints.

“

The adage, ‘you are what you eat’ holds true for our four-legged friends, so make sure you’re feeding complete, balanced, high-quality food.

Get Fit with Spot!

Join t team spot, g get your gear, Let’s go!

The next Spot Walk is happening July 31 at 7pm at Multnomah County Animal Services’s ANIMAL HOUSE Toga Party and Adoptathon in Troutdale. Guest dog walker Alison Eberhard of Dog Scout Troop 192 has created an adventure complete with training stations.

Spot’s shindigs are always a good time, and you’ll love Spot Walks and your doggie PETometer.

When you’re not attending a Spot Walk, clip on the PETometer and hit the pavement in your own neighborhood. We’re getting fit . . . together! To learn more, contact Angie@SpotMagazine.net

OVMA at The Oregon State Fair

Visit the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association at the Oregon State Fair (Aug. 27Sept. 6). This year’s focus is pet obesity. Stop by for tips on getting them fit and trim. They will be giving away portioncontrol feeding cups and weight loss guides, and you can enter to win healthy food, treats & toys to help. Details: oregonvma.org/news/comevisit-us-oregon-state-fair.

“

When it comes to excess weight and obesity in cats and dogs, it’s often “like owner, like pet.” The majority of pets are prisoners to their owners’ sedentary lifestyles.

Remember: precious Fifi or Fido are essentially wild animals. They require activity to keep them stimulated and their metabolism going as it was designed to.

With any strenuous activity, be careful. Some pets don’t know when to stop — it’s up to you to put the brakes on before he ends up sore or injured.

Years of over-indulgence and bad habits could have led to your pet’s pudge. Before you feed another table scrap or treat, consider pampering in a new way. Nothing says real love like a guardian committed to helping a companion get fit and healthy, right along with you.

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. spot magazine

| august 2010

Get Out!

Rambling Rovers

Hiker Sean Gatson watches friends’ dogs Delmar and Bear frolic on the South Gorge trail near Breitenbush

Hiking with Dogs is Great Fun, but be Prepared.

Meryl Lipman • Spot Magazine

10 spot magazine | august 2010

According to Ellen Bishop Morris, in her book Best Hikes With Dogs Oregon, Harr has mastered a critical component of hiking with dogs: obedience. An aggressive, disobedient or absentminded dog has no place on the trail, writes Bishop-Morris, citing stewardship of nature and wildlife as primary responsibilities of humans hiking with dogs.

“

Harr has mastered a critical component of hiking with dogs: obedience.

“

Like any self-respecting Labrador Retriever, one-year-old Bear is happiest playing fetch in a natural body of water. Lucky for Bear, his partner in crime, Gary Harr, is also at his best on a river or lake.

Harr, who leads dog-friendly hikes for the social networking group Meetin Portland (MIPL), frequently takes Bear for fivemile jaunts in the Columbia River Gorge, and on the Clackamas, Sandy and Willamette Rivers.

Last spring he led MIPL hikes at Triple Falls in the Gorge and at Oaks Bottom/Sellwood Park.

His weekend haunts also include the Sandy River Delta (exit 18 off I-84), where Bear can roam off leash and splash in the river, always in sight.

Unlike Harr, Portland realtor Tamara Smith does not let her eight-year-old Basset-Lab mix Katie run free. “If she sees a squirrel, she’s outta there,” says Smith, whose favorite hikes include Cape Lookout and Falcon Cove at the coast. “There are a lot of steep ledges (on those trails),” says Smith, “or maybe I’m just an overprotective mom.”

Or not.

Leash love is hardly the sign of a helicopter mom, say the certified veterinary technicians who manage the PCC Veterinary Technology Program under the direction of Dr. Brad Krohn.

“We’re the ones who see dogs come in sick and vomiting, with diarrhea, paw pads worn off,

and covered with ticks (from off leash nature hikes),” says Nicole Papageorgiou, CVT, a part-timer at PCC. The leash, says PCC full-time Certified Vet Tech Dolores Galindo, is the ultimate preventative measure.

Some of the horrors she has seen include lost pups, meet-ups with predators, impalements from jumping over downed tree branches, broken bones, ruptured ligaments, and intestinal parasites (from drinking bad water or eating dead animals).

“Hiking with your dog should be interactive and fun,” says Galindo. “It should not end [up at] an emergency hospital.”

Before even broaching the leash conversation, Papageorgiou

stresses preliminary vet visits to determine the best kind of outings for Fido. She recommends a full physical and blood work, as well as flea, tick and worm treatments. “And rattle snake vaccines if you’re going to Eastern Oregon,” she adds.

Galindo touts conditioning as the next step. “Don’t start with a five-mile hike,” she says.

“Start with longer walks in the neighborhood.”

Galindo learned this lesson firsthand when she took her young Lab to the Sandy River Delta.

“We had him on a 30-foot lead. We got to the water and he kept going in, going in, going in,” she recalls. “After awhile he got out to the middle of the river and just started sinking.”

Galindo and her husband had to reel him in like a fish, she remembers. The incident is funny now, she says, but she decided then, “At the end of a hike, a dog should be content, not exhausted.”

Along with conditioning, acclimation is key. A trail dog should be comfortable with all kinds of wildlife. Otherwise, says Galindo, “you’re standing on a ledge and a flock of geese fly by

“

A leash is the ultimate preventative measure.

Equally important before heading for the trails is a preliminary vet visit to determine appropriate outings for Fido. Recommended: full physical and blood work; flea, tick and worm treatments; and rattle snake vaccines if you’re going to Eastern Oregon.

Two year old “career change” guide dog Delmar, now a pet and trail par tner, sits quietly at the edge of a 300 foot drop off on a hike near Breitenbush.

and now you and your dog are both going over the ledge.”

Galindo and Papageorgiou both recommend canine first aid knowledge and supplies. The kit should include vet wrap, gauze, eye wash (in the event of a skunk spray), antibiotic ointment, and peroxide “in case the dog ingests something and you have to make him vomit.”

One of her dogs ate its leash during a long boring ride in her camper. “We had to find a drug store in this little tiny town. Then we drove up a forest road, I gave my dog peroxide, and he threw up little pieces of leather for eight hours,” she says.

Though Papageorgiou’s late Greyhound camping buddy Sylvie used to sleep with her in her sleeping bag, heat stroke is a greater risk than hypothermia for dogs. Finding shade on the trail is important, she says, “even in the mountains on a sunny day.”

Another critical piece of trail health, says Galindo, occurs after the hike. “Do not let a dog engorge himself on water while

he is panting,” she warns. “Bloat is a veterinary emergency.”

After a serious romp in nature, she recommends pet parents “give a little bit of water initially and then wait until the dog stops panting.”

Galindo has four canine companions, a Lab, a Pitt Bull mix, a 7-lb. Chihuahua, and a Sheltie mix “with short legs.” She says they all enjoy the beach and

the Sandy River Delta, and they are all “good for an hour or two.”

While retrievers, hounds, and herding breeds do well on longer treks, Galindo gauges her hikes to her little one, which includes watching for predators in the sky.

“For a hawk, that’s a food source,” she says.

Papageorgiou jokes about “matching your hike to the weakest link,” but she quickly turns

Microchip, Rabies & Licensing Clinic Microchips $20

Rabies Vaccines $10

All pets are welcome!

Please bring dogs on a leash and cats in carriers.

Clinic will be held on:

Sunday,August 22nd, 2010 Location: 1700 W Columbia River Hwy Troutdale, OR 97060 Time 11am-3pm

www.MultCoPets.org spot magazine

| august 2010

11

“

serious. “We [tend to] forget how domesticated dogs are, that they can’t fend for themselves” she says. “Think of it as . . . hiking with a three-year-old.”

Indeed, Gary Harr’s Bear acted like a happy three-year-old at a recent snowshoe event on Mt. Hood. He found sticks and begged for game after game of fetch. He outlasted the entire MIPL crowd on the wooded trek at 5,000 feet.

The, when the humans hit the pub post-snowshoeing, Bear curled up in the back seat of the car, where he snored, barked softly, and ran in his sleep, dreaming of Northwestern trails.

Pet Groomers Several opportunities available at established shops for experienced Groomers.

Commission based on grooming experience. Skills demonstration required. We are a successful, growing company and we want you to be part of our team. Visit your Newberg, Canby, Oregon City or Battle Ground Wilco Farm Store or apply online at

www.wilco.coop

1000

$

Signing Bonus! for

qualifie licants hired (condidtioapp ns apply).

10

Ellen Bishop Morris’

Canine Trail Essentials • Snug-fitting doggie pack.

1:20 ratio – one pound of pack weight for every 20 lbs of dog. Get the dog conditioned and used to the pack with short walks.

• Canine first aid kit and knowledge of canine first aid.

• Enough food and trail food for two extra days of hiking.

Like humans, dogs burn more calories when hiking and should nosh at intervals.

• Water and collapsible or lightweight titanium bowl.

Keeping Fluffy hydrated with safe water will minimize the risk of her drinking from streams, which can carry disease.

Meryl Lipman has an MA in Writing from PSU and works as Community Relations Manager for PCC Rock Creek. She used to hike in Russia and the Northwest with her late, great Spaniel Katya.

• Leash and collar. Many parks require dogs be on leash.

When hiking on shared-use trails with horses or mountain bikes, a leash is imperative.

• Insect repellent. Touted by Bishop Morris as defense against ticks and lyme disease. But she warns owners to spray a test patch and to avoid spraying places a dog can lick.

• Identification tags and microchip.

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12 spot magazine | august 2010

• Booties. Paw abrasions are among the most common trail injuries for dogs.

Papageorgiou says a good rule of thumb is, “If you’re going up in your Tivas, your dog can go with (bare) paw pads. If you’re wearing [hiking boots] then the dog should wear booties.”

• Compact roll of plastic bags. Avid hikers follow the adage “Leave no trace.” That includes poo.

• Successful obedience training. The dog should be able to stay in sight of the owner and come when called.

Tricks of theTrade . . .

One Frame At A Time with David Childs

W

hether it’s an expression that tugs at our hearts, an endearing moment or just some fun thing they do, there’s so much about our furry friends we’d like to capture in our photographs.

But getting shots that really capture those moments and communicate how they make us feel can be surprisingly difficult. The ads say “just point and shoot,” making us

THIS MONTH’S FOCUS In this column we’ll explore various tips and concepts that can help make your photos more powerful and communicate what you want them to. And since the key to success is practice, I’ll offer a related “assignment” each month that I hope will encourage you to practice.

easy for gear to get in our way and to block us from seeing the world.

Kathy’s winning photos convey moments that would have been lost had she been worrying about her gear. It takes great focus to capture the convergence of emotion, light, background and color that make her photos so powerful. Seeing all that requires a great awareness of the present moment; an awareness that

THIS MONTH ASSIGNMENT’S Th is

m on th I’d yo u ta ke an un -p be ex ci te d to se e os of on e (o r m or e) ed , na tu ra l ph ot o of No fla sh , no th in yo ur fu rry fri en ds . g m in df ul of ex is se t up . In st ea d, be tin g lig ht , em ot an d ba ck gr ou nd io n, , th in g th at sp ea an d cr ea te so m eks to yo u ou t of (o r m or e) of th os e m om en ts . on e

CLASS RECAP Try the exercise Send your photos from the assignment to:

Kathy’s grand Prize Photo

Kathy’s top Cat Photo

feel like it should be easy to freeze those moments into photographs.

Yet no matter how skilled, all of us know the disappointment of photos that fail to meet the promise we felt when we made them.

It’s natural to think “better gear” would solve our problems, or to sadly believe we are just not creative enough to take great shots.

But I think this is akin to how I felt the first time I was on a ski lift.

Looking down at all those skiers gracefully carving turns made it look so effortless. But moments later, when the lift stopped, I realized it wasn’t going to be as easy as it looked. It was tempting to blame my skis or the sun in my eyes, but we all know it was me that needed the work, the practice, and perhaps a teacher.

This time I’m excited to discuss Kathy Lillis’s wonderful success in the OHS Photo Contest. Entering for the first time, she won the grand prize for her soulful photo of her dog Maggie, and won “Top Cat” for her amazing photo of her Flo. Kathy made both of these photos using available light and a point and shoot camera anyone might use at home.

Kathy was a student in one of my recent OHS photography classes.

During class she made a huge leap forward when she turned off her flash and began really seeing existing light. We’ll discuss using existing light, and flash, in future columns. But what I hope to instill in you today is that, when it comes to equipment, less can be more! It’s

can easily be lost if we get bogged down by our tools.

Knowing how to use our gear is important, which we’ll discuss in future columns, and fancy gear is nice. But often when we are disappointed with our photos, it’s due to our own lack of being fully aware in the moment. A key challenge we face as photographers is to not let our gear distract us from our subjects or from the present moment.

Any of us can produce powerful, award-winning photos with the most basic gear — if we stay mindful of the world we are in. If you have any doubt that you can produce great images I hope you’ll take inspiration from Kathy’s success.

David@DavidChildsPhotography.com

Please put “Spot Photo Class” in the subject line Visit www.SpotMagazine.net and click on “Photography 101” to see your photos and those of your fellow students Share your great work with your friends!

Check out David’s tips and comments Meet David right here next month for the next session!

You can study with David live!

His pet photography classes are offered at OHS. Details, DavidChildsPhotography.com.

David Childs is a professional photographer, photo journalist, instructor, and animal advocate. You can see his work or contact him at: www.DavidChildsPhotography.com spot magazine

| august 2010

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Happy Home

ANIMAL

HOUSE The goods in design for a safe, beautiful home . . . for the Pet Set Jake Faris • Spot Magazine

Floor It It’s what pets walk on, and occasionally it’s what they soil.

While there are some tradeoffs with looks and function, there are a few choices that offer both good looks and clean-ability.

Linoleum has been around for more than 150 years — likely because it’s one of the most durable, cleanable surfaces.

What began as a patented

1 spot magazine | august 2010

mixture of linseed oil, cork dust and wood “flour” has long protected battleship decks and hospital corridors.

But linoleum has moved beyond the institutional. Premium stuff, like Forbo’s Marmoleum and Armstrong’s Marmorette, offer traditional durability in a wide variety of colorful patterns for modern homes. Because it’s made from both renewable resources and recycled content it can be “green” without being green.

Carpet is often the default for flooring, yet “it will hold the hair and it takes a little more to clean,” cautions Rouza. There are some steps pet owners can take to make life with carpet easier. Mid-tone colors are your best bet, with the more pattern the better. The lighter the carpet, the easier it is to notice stains and hair. “Make sure that your carpet is treated.”

Rouza adds. “It usually comes treated, and can be refreshed

either by a professional or for do-it-yourselfers you can buy carpet protector at a hardware store.”

“

Homeowners love wood floors, but they are slippery for dogs and highmaintenance for homeowners.

“

J

oAnn Rouza, who has owned JoAnn Rouza Interiors for over 10 years, gave Spot the rundown on the best materials for homes with pets. “In a real home, function is number one,” says Rouza. As a pet owner and animal lover, she knows what the issues are.

“There’s the shedding, there’s the mud, there’s the water dripping. Those are all things I consider when I’m making recommendations for upholstery, flooring, even pet beds.”

Another option is carpet tile, though Rouza only recommends them for casual rooms or more modern decor. “Those are kind of cool because you can wash them and they are also replaceable,” she says. “It’s a little different look, a little funkier.”

Homeowners love wood floors, but they are slippery for dogs and can damage easily. Thankfully,

there are products that offer the beauty of wood without the headaches. “Pre-stained wood flooring is sealed with many, many layers of protective coating,” says Rouza, “it holds up well and looks beautiful.”

There’s also Kährs flooring, which interlocks like laminate but offers sealed layers of wood that can be sanded and refinished if needed. Also known for their toughness, laminate floors can be noisy, Rouza warns.

For natural wood floors that are still pet-friendly, bamboo wins points with Rouza for its durability. Cork, though a softer wood, can recover from small scratches because of its natural oils.

A perfect companion for carpet, hardwood or tile, “rugs are a great thing to have,” says Rouza.

Whether it’s highly patterned Persian or even contemporary geometric-patterned rugs, their usefulness knows no bounds. Like carpet, rugs with a busy pattern

To do their job, rugs need to be placed strategically. Rouza keeps an indoor/outdoor mat inside the back door. Just large enough for her dog to hit with two strides on its way in, it does a great job cutting down tracked-in dirt.

Climbing the Walls Pets can’t see as many colors as their humans, but the tradeoff is that they are much more sensitive to smells. It’s a fact we olfactory-challenged humans sometimes forget, but even after the fresh-paint smell is gone, paints still emit chemicals into the air. Because the fumes stay closer to the ground, “pets and kids are more susceptible to the fumes from paints,” Rouza explains. She recommends choosing a low- or no-volatile organic compound (VOC) line.

Because dogs love to do a

little decorating of their own with the mud and dirt they collect on their coats, owners want to chose something that can wash well. This usually means a higher-gloss paint, like satin or semi-gloss. “If you’re going to do your baseboards, use the highest-gloss paint,” says Rouza. “It has the hardest finish so it stands up to everyday wear and tear.”

Leather upholstery doesn’t attract pet hair like fabrics, and if it’s good-quality leather, stained all the way through, it won’t show minor scratches. For those who want the clean-ability of leather without the price, there’s microfiber, a man-made suedelike material that can be cleaned with just soap and water.

Cotton, chenille, leather or microfiber, the busier the pattern the easier it is for the upholstery to disguise stains and blemishes.

“

Even after the fresh-paint smell is gone, paints still emit chemicals into the air.

“

hide stains better than solid colors. Specifically, look for rugs made from 100% wool. “They are easier to clean because of the natural oils,” Rouza says.

When it comes to upholstery, a cotton slipcover is the option that’s by far easiest to clean.

However, if you want the good looks of a traditionally upholstered living room set, the best fabric is chenille, according to Rouza. This versatile fabric comes in many different colors and patterns, and even the slightest pattern helps hide stains and imperfections. Durable and easy to clean, chenille can attract pet hair, Rouza warns.

“But it depends on the type of chenille,” she continues.

“Generally you want to get as tight of a weave as possible.

When you look at it, it’s not big

loops and big stitches.”

Also, an open, loose weave can snag on paws and claws.

Happy Home

Fiber of the Fabric

For decorators who want the look of matte paint but the petfriendly wash-ability of glossy, Rouza recommends Benjamin Moore’s Aura washable matte line. Benjamin Moore also makes the Aura Bath and Spa line that, with its easy wash-ability and mildew resistant coating, is perfect for the Northwest. spot magazine

| august 2010

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Happy Home

Cats Know Where It’s At

Cats are notoriously hard on fabrics, blinds, and just about anything that hangs, dangles, or feels like it should be scratched. They are also notoriously hard to predict. Rouza has an interesting approach to their capricious preference: a scratch test.

When it comes time to pick a fabric, bring home several swatch samples or carpet remnants.

Leave them in a place where your cat is likely to feel the need to do a little claw sharpening. For

the house, choose the fabric or carpet that isn’t up to your cat’s high sharpening standards.

But also order some of the “winning” material and turn it into a designated scratching accessory.

Cats also like to play with precariously balanced items.

Sometimes that’s their favorite mouse. Sometimes that’s their parents’ priceless heirloom.

Rouza’s secret trick is museum putty. With a strategically placed dab of putty, dislodging

heirlooms becomes a chore, and a prowling feline will usually find something easier to play with.

realize that having pets doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice design.

As she puts it, “I focus on realworld design. I want to make sure the home stays looking good even The other issue for cats is their with pets.” litter box. It’s always better, for human aesthetics and bashful felines, to have the litter box tucked away in a closet or utility room. As a designer, Rouza mentioned Tidy Cats Breeze Jake Faris is a freelance writer who’s litter box — which uses litter for worn many different hats, including a solid waste and a pad for urine hardhat and the 8-point hat of a police — as an example of how far officer. Jake and his wife Charity live with their two cats and four dogs in technology has come in reducing Beaverton. The whole pack moved the smells and inconvenience of to Portlandfrom Wenatchee, WA three years ago. Now a dedicated Oregotraditional litter boxes.

JoAnn Rouza hopes that with these tips, pet parents can

nian, Jake finds new reasons to love his adopted state every day. Contact him at jake@spotmagazinenet

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Keeping tabs on the ever evolving, fast-changing matter of

food d Kennedy Morgan • Spot Magazine

Once there were essentially two options: wet or dry. Today food choices for your furry family member abound, and choosing can be confusing! Which is best?

Why such different opinions among raw feeders and kibble feeders, home-made feeders, and veterinarian recommendations? In this series we’ll debunk some of the common misconceptions about various feeding methods, share some of the pros and cons, and leave it up to you to choose what’s best for your baby.

As many people will tell you, they came about feeding their pets a certain way because of an incident that changed their thinking. For me, I made a change when trying to eliminate allergy problems in my Dane. For others, it was the food recalls. The list of reasons people feed what they do are lengthy. This is what I know: each person must make the decision based upon what he or she believes to be best, and fits within his or her lifestyle. And, the recommendations and practices are evolving every day.

What really matters is meeting the nutritional needs of your pet.

This month we’ll talk about commercially canned food and dry kibble, two of the most readily available food sources for domesticated pets, and the most popular for decades. Compiling this article brought two immediate realizations: 1) There are a lot more foods out there than most of us realize, and 2) there is more to feeding your pet than what shakes into the bowl.

The whole process led me to umpteen websites for manufacturers of popular foods to finding food types I had never heard of, and then to scientific articles that illustrate just how far our pet culture has come and continues to evolve. There are a few key points though, that will hopefully provide you with the requisite resources should you want to investigate your choices further.

Part 1 in a series

P

et food injects many billions of dollars into the economy each year. The American Pet Products Association (APPA) estimates “$47.7 billion will be spent on pets in the US” in 2010, with $18.28 billion of that on pet food. Further, many surveys indicate that an overwhelming majority of pet owners consider their furry friends (or hairless as the case may be) no less than family. No wonder this industry is facing constant pressure and expectations by consumers to provide high quality and safe products.

After the large-scale recalls of 2007, the FDA and individual companies began looking closer at what went into the food that ultimately lands in someone’s food bowl. “Food quality is one of the most important issues APPA members face at the international level as more and more products are imported and exported from country to country,” says the APPA . “Increased quality assurance protocols and regulatory oversight by manufacturers are necessary to

ensure there is no repeat.”

The Beginning Of Dog Food England circa 1860. A dog biscuit was produced, representing the first commercially-prepared dog food. Since that time, scientific studies and feeding trials sponsored by thousands of companies have eaten up time, money, and intense effort to produce the products available today.

But it’s not as simple as what’s for dinner. The decision of kibble or canned; raw or home-cooked; pre-made raw or a combination leaves many pet guardians stumped. What’s best? What does my pet need? What if he has allergies? What if she is overweight? Fighting cancer? Is afflicted with chronic UTIs? And don’t forget dental and joint health, skin and coat, ears . . . and the list goes on.

All of these are very real concerns for pet parents — if spot magazine

| august 2010

1

not now, possibly in the future. One thing readily agreed upon is a high-quality diet of quality ingredients meeting the “complete and balanced standards set forth by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (aafco.org)” offers pets an opportunity for better health now and throughout life. These standards indicate the protein, fat, fat- and water-soluble vitamins, and mineral content that should be contained in every product.

Another important agency committed to providing pets and guardians with products meeting pets’ complex nutritional requirements since 1958 is the Pet Food Institute (PFI).

The Scoop On Kibble Reports from the PFI indicate 60% of America’s pet caloric content is comprised of dry kibble. Kibble is typically manufactured using techniques like those used to make puffed cereals for people. In a nutshell, the ingredients are mixed, formed into dough, heated, and put through an extruder, the equivalent of a giant meat grinder. The dough cooks at high temperature and pressure, then goes through a shaping die. The temperature out of the extruder puffs the kibble pieces. Finally it’s dried to a moisture content low enough to prevent spoilage, sprayed with flavor enhancer, then packaged and labeled, shipped and distributed.

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FOOD • Updates • Alerts • Specials • Recalls SpotMagazine.net

food d Just Can It Making canned pet food is simpler. The ingredients are combined in a mixer, then poured into their final packaging (can, pouch, or tray). Containers are sealed and then cooked to kill organisms such as mold, bacteria and viruses. The containers are then cooled, labeled, packed, and distributed for sale.

But What’s IN It? Why do we read some labels and recognize every ingredient, and others ...not so much?

Good question. Here’s what some additives do in pet food: powdered cellulose and vegetable fibers have proven effective for caloric density, fat reduction, and bulking in canned food.

For dry, cellulose fibers improve texture and shape, and may also aid in the extrusion process.

These ingredients are commonly added to “people” foods, too.

Wisdom From The Pros Just as we work to put the right things into our own bodies, we want the same for our pets.

So we ask, “What is it and where did it come from?” Companies like V-Dog are making even more pet food options available. David Middlesworth, owner of V-Dog and longtime vegan, discovered V-Dog Crunchy Nuggets several years ago at a conference in Scotland. He says that protein derived from sources other than animals is perfectly acceptable nutrition for dogs — perhaps even superior.

Veterinarian Dr. Ron Hines of Texas says, “Although dogs prefer meat-based foods, they can exist on vegetable proteins as long as other missing nutrients and amino acids are added.”

V-Dog food includes ingredients such as quinoa, oats, whole wheat, and whole corn, plus supplements including taurine, l-carnitine, and flax seed. The ingredients are human grade, and Middlesworth reminds us that anecdotal evidence points to longevity when consuming a diet high in plant-based items.

Solid Gold is a longtime leader in natural and holistic animal nutrition. In fact, the company was founded in 1974 with the sole purpose of increasing the longevity of animals through

high-qualit y nut r it ion. The founder, Sissy HarringtonMcGill, must have been onto something, because natural and holistic are certainly buzzwords today. While ingredients for Solid Gold are selected from around the world, high quality, safety, and an avoidance of chemicals, preservatives, and unnatural ingredients are a given with every product. Formulas are updated as new nutritional research becomes available, and products are manufactured in the USA. Selections are diverse for both dogs and cats, in canned and kibble.

Another expert, Chanda LearyCoutu of WellPet, manufacturer of Wellness, Eagle Pack, Old Mother Hubbard, and Holistic Select, says that focal to WellPet’s mission is “natural foods with recognizable ingredients.” The company recognizes that people are more aware than ever of what they are purchasing, specifically checking labels for known allergens (wheat, wheat gluten, soy), artificial flavors, colors, and synthetic preservatives; and meat as the first ingredient.

Ingredients such as boneless chicken, New Zealand lamb, cheddar cheese, spearmint,

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food apples, carrots, parsley, sweet potatoes are oft-included in their products — things you or I could identify or may eat. Eagle Pack was co-developed with champion sled dog teams for performance purposes. In other words, it was built to feed dogs that needed to perform at their peak.

Getting to the bottom of the dollar One common m i s c o n ception has been that purchasing from a vet or paying a high price means you’re giving your pet the best, but that’s not always the case.

Not long ago, most foods readily accessible came from a scant few companies and were sold at the grocery store. Now there are scads of specialty pet stores, home

delivery, websites, veterinarians, and chain pet stores carrying brands galore at varying price points. Dr. Hines does infer that generic and lower-priced foods use a lesser quality protein than their pricier counterpoints, and this difference goes to your pet’s health. He notes, “Excluding premium, niche, and specialty brands sold through pet shops, the quality of dog foods is reflected directly in the price you pay.”

High-quality ingredients (catch the theme?) and the ability to ensure consistency from batch to batch costs companies — a direct correlation to their investment in your pet’s well-being.

content; canned food contains 75% water.

In some cases, specific medical reasons may necessitate feeding o ne o ve r t he other . C r ys tal formation in the bladder afflicts some animals, and canned foods can combat its return. Other medical issues greatly reduce a pet’s appetite and nutritionallyunique diets have been developed by some companies in canned formulas to aid in maintaining the health of those pets. Together, you, your vet, and your pet should choose the best selection for your specific requirements and lifestyle.

Making the choice Given a choice, many pets will to choose canned over dry.

Why? It’s often more fragrant and palatable. No different than pancakes over dry cereal, I suppose. But is it wise to let your pet choose? Many doctors agree that dry food is better for oral health. Little dogs especially struggle with tartar buildup and decay. Cost is a consideration, too, as kibble offers a much greater caloric density which translates to filling up on smaller portions.

Kibble is richer in nutrients due to its higher dry matter

Other foods have been developed for other reasons, and their ingredients reflect that purpose.

This month, we’ve looked at just a few examples of foods, their history and development, the philosophy of pet food design, and what is available. But canned and kibble are not the end of the pet food train. Next month we’ll talk about homemade and raw diets, giving you the scoop and controversy on how these options play into the pet nutritional picture.

Kennedy Morgan is a native Oregonian, customer service manager, and freelance writer who shares her home with her two sons, her Great Dane, Vegas, Pomeranian, Leo, Bearded Dragon, Godzilla, and three uber-friendly kitties. Kennedy is an active member of agility clubs and the Portland Great Dane Community. In her spare time she enjoys in agility, hiking, biking, and attending her kids’ sporting events. Contact her at kennedymmorgan@gmail.com.

20 spot magazine | august 2010

Can the end be made kinder?

Yes. Jennifer McCammon • Spot Magazine

Death is the hardest of them all.

As pet guardians we all will face the too-soon arrival of the end of their lives. Their lifespans are so much shorter than ours.

Often at the end we ask, Is it time? Do we keep him going?

Is it selfish to hold on? Is it unloving to let go? These are questions we all face, searching for certainty, for strength, for guidance.

When the answer is, “It’s time,” one option that can provide great comfort in this unbearable yet unavoidable step is a compassionate attendant to the passage . . . in the safety,

comfort and serenity of the family home.

Lori Gibson, DVM opened Compassionate Care Home Pet Euthanasia Services serving Portland and surrounding late last spring.

The only professional offering this service exclusively, Gibson says “Believe it or not, I’ve never experienced such appreciation as I have in this field.”

When asked how she came to be a veterinarian and ultimately to exclusively practice home euthanasia, Gibson says she always had an affinity for animals. “I bred and showed guinea pigs, had hamsters, all that.”

Pepper, a short-haired black cat in the family since Gibson was eight, had a hand in it too.

In college, Gibson was just beginning to wonder what to do with her life. “Most of us think we’ll get out of college and get a great job. But it doesn’t always happen that way,” she says.

She was working at OHSU at the time, not yet having decided on a definite career track, when

Pepper fell ill. Gibson called it “weird timing,” explaining that it made her realize she “still wanted to be a vet.”

“

Pepper followed, on a night during finals.

The combination of her dad’s death, the stress of school, and then struggling with decisions about Pepper’s end of life would ultimately imbue her with a sensitivity to and appreciation for the fact that life is rarely simple — that most big life events are affected by many factors.

Often at the end we ask, Is it time?

Do we keep him going? Is it selfish Another experience that shaped the doctor Gibson would become to hold on? Is it was working in a veterinary unloving to let go? clinic after graduation. There she

“

O

ften it’s the most difficult matters in life that are hardest to consider, much less discuss. And it is just such matters that call for the greatest care and consideration.

If we are to make choices we’ll be at peace with — when the moment arrives, and after it’s passed — we must face the hard things.

With just enough time to apply for the next session at OSU to which only 38 students would be accepted, she did, and she did.

Pepper improved.

During her first year at veterinary school Gibson’s dad was diagnosed with cancer. She says seeing him go through hospice, then stop eating and then “lose his desire to be here anymore,” was another important piece.

Six months after her dad died,

experienced the daily necessity of moving patients through, and the reality that decisions were often made not only in a pressured, fast-moving environment, but also often made around money.

“They tell us at school that veterinary medicine is a hard field,” says Gibson. “I finished my education $100k in debt, and I was making . . .” not so much.

But one of the hardest things for her, she says, was, “I didn’t like that so many decisions had to be made based on finances.” continued on page 22 spot magazine

| august 2010

21

During these years Gibson was aware of one service providing home euthanasia, knowing it only as a phone number to refer people to. “I talked to my boss about starting a service on the side, but never got it going.” That was in early 2000.

Then Gibson spent several years in the medical device industry.

While she says it was a great learning experience, something didn’t fit. “I was turned off by the money aspect,” she says, saying the motivating factor for those she worked with was too often money, rather than science or higher purposes. “I got great experience and learned a lot about corporate, working with people, and industry, but it just didn’t fit me,” she says.

While details from her professional past are peppered with terms like “learning,” “money,” “good experience but not a fit,” her stories today have one noticeably recurring word: “rewarding.”

“I didn’t expect to go into veterinary medicine to euthanize pets exclusively,” she says, but her story clearly illustrates how the ‘fit’ that eluded her for years had finally found her.

“People ask, ‘How do you do this?’” says Gibson, adding with a smile, “or some say with a little more diplomacy, ‘How did you ever come to do this?’”

She concludes, “I tell people, ‘believe it or not it’s incredibly rewarding.’”

When it comes, Gibson says, it can catch people off guard. It is exactly such situations in which her services can be the most helpful in practical ways.

“In the worst case you might have a huge Husky who’s acutely painful at 3 a.m. — where do you turn? Do you wait ‘til the clinic opens? Can you even “It’s a personal decision based get him in the car? To be able to help make it easier is very on a lot of factors,” she says, “there’s no magic formula.” Forrewarding.”

Gibson seems to possess that rare gift of comfortably, and ably, attending others through the transition from life to death.

“It’s gonna sound corny,” she says, “but I liken it to birth.

Death is also no less an important, momentous event. To help people through that is an honor, rewarding.”

Gibson says, “People don’t want to think about their pet’s death — I’ve been there myself, thinking they’ll live forever.”

A situation needn’t be that dramatic for Gibson’s role to make an important impact. “Even a small kitty,” she says, “that’s easy enough to transport and handle . . . some people have others in their family who are sick, or they’ve recently lost someone . . . just other factors that make it so important for this passage to go more easily.”

While at turns people have described Gibson as a counselor or a hospice service, she says she is really not those things, that what she does is “do my best to inform and support people at a time when they may be wrestling with the hardest decision.”

22 spot magazine | august 2010

Gibson says this is when her training and experience as a vet is most valuable, as she can break down the medical facts, realities and choices. “Plus what happened with my dad and my cat,” she says, pointing to a crossroads she sees many clients reach: not wanting to wait too long or act too fast.

People ask, ‘How do you do this?’” says Gibson, adding with a smile, “or some say with a little more diplomacy, ‘How did you ever come to do this?’”

She concludes, “I tell people, ‘believe it or not it’s incredibly rewarding.’

“

continued from page 21

tunately, she says, most people don’t want her to decide what to do for them, but rather to validate and support the decision they’ve made, or are preparing to make. “ You know your pet, the signs,” says Gibson. “Even if the pet is still eating or not yet experiencing acute pain . . . .” Some choose to end life while their companion is on an upswing, wanting to spare them extreme pain or anguish later, knowing that given time, it will come. “I fully support that,” she says. “A lot of people wait too long. I’ve done the same thing.

And that’s okay, too; it’s just the path they have to go down. My job is to support their decision, not to second-guess them or their vet.”

Gibson works by vet referral.

When a client comes to her directly, she strives to ensure the client has worked with their vet, “who knows the big picture.”

In rare cases Gibson has declined services. One was a pet owner who essentially wanted to dispose of her animals as her lifestyle was changing.

In other cases clients have asked Gibson to help determine whether euthanasia was appropriate. One involved a dog who, with surgery, ultimately had very good chances for many more years of healthy living. Gibson suggested surgery, saying that if they were conflicted they should re-think their decision. Later Gibson learned of other factors that would have challenged

anyone’s judgment. Happily, the couple opted for surgery, which was successful.

“Sometimes it’s about what people are prepared to go through,” says Gibson. “My job is to inform and support them.”

How does the process work?

First a meeting to discuss the condition of the pet in need of euthanasia, and aftercare.

Why home euthanasia?

To avoid the stress of a trip to the vet’s office

intravenous injection completes the procedure. Gibson believes strongly in allowing the process to commence at the family ’s speed and comfort level, and to make it as stress-free and peaceful as possible. After the procedure, the service includes arrangements and transport of the pet to a local pet cremation if desired.

Testimonials on the Compassionate Care website underscore how much clients value this aspect of Gibson’s service.

Here are two of many, shared here with permission from the authors:

People abhor the idea of their beloved pet dying on a “cold steel table” The pet is too large or disabled to transport Skip waiting in the lobby and/or grieving in public Other pets can be present and aware of their companion’s passage Allows children to be present if desired Eliminates necessity of transporting the body for burial/cremation

When Gibson arrives, she determines that euthanasia is warranted and has the pet parents sign a consent form. When the pet and family are ready, a sedative/pain medication is administered by injection. Once sedated, and again only when the family is ready to proceed, an

I want to thank you again for your services on Saturday 5/29 for my 17 yr old beloved cat Miles. Your calm and gentle manner and kindness were most appreciated. Your explanations helped enormously.

The time you spent was so personal and exactly what I wanted to have happen when the time came to say good bye to my buddy.

PS: I know you worked hard to become a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine but it really helped calling you Lori….thank you for that too - Marleen Mercer Beaverton, OR

“Sami and I were deeply appreciative of your compassionate and caring attention to Pepper’s final need.

Your kindness, willingness to talk, and clear support of a “proceed at your speed” approach to ending our beloved Pepper’s life was deeply comforting to each of us. We will never forget your kindness on this terrible, wrenching day. Should any friends or family members find themselves to be in a similar circumstance we will not hesitate to wholeheartedly recommend you.

You are fulfilling a need that almost all dog-lovers face at some point. Hopefully, you will still be available in the future should we again be faced with the need to electively end the life of a dearly loved 4legged family member.”

- Bob Crooks, Lake Oswego, OR

Gibson makes clear she has no interest in pulling business from other clinics. Listening to her though, this fact speaks for itself. Equipped with impressive experience and training, she has traveled a path that from early on clearly led her to the role she fills today. And while many

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things about it fits, one thing rings through powerfully: in this work, Dr. Lori Gibson has not only found her fit, she has found work that is rewarding.

Gibson’s credentials, education, professional history and memberships can be found at www.drlorigibson.com, as can many notes from appreciative clients.

I lost Paxton six years ago. Shortly after finding the cancer we learned it had metastasized . . .everywhere.

So I had no hard decisions to make. I had only to watch her quality of life, make sure she stayed this side of well and comfortable, and accept that she would be leaving soon.

I knew when it was time.

Sporty in her hot pink “diaper,” she lay, eyes laboring to stay watchful, as was her way, but finally moving little, her light fading. When

our connection went from weak to fragile, I knew it was time.

I checked with our trusted vet, double - double - checking my instincts that it was time. They assured me that it was.

She was my first baby to pass, and I knew nothing of end of life services then. Had I known, I’m not sure I would have sought them. I don’t do well with death, or with the remains left by a departing life force. But that was then. Today, I would . . .

for Paxton. Her stress at the vet’s office was pronounced (please note: we love those guys and they love us). Nevertheless, our goodbye was abrupt and harsh.

Whether you’re comfortable with this transition or more like I was, conducting the passage at home with a skilled, loving guide can make this thing we’d give anything to make go away (but can’t) . . . more kind.

For your beloved companion, and for us.

—the editor

d e ! t t o p S Your pet becomes part of our family!!! we are here for your pet’s skin and Ear comfort!!

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2 spot magazine | august 2010

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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 503925-8903 www.catadoptionteam.org Volunteers welcome.

Fosters needed.

DAYCARE AJ’S K-9 KAMP Spoiled rotten K-9s love it here! K-9s under 25 lbs. Daycare in my secluded private home. Near the airport 15 yrs. experience.

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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.

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HELP WANTED GROOMER Experienced Groomer needed part time, could possibly work into full time. Must be able to communicate with the public, be self motivated and have ambition. We provide a BIG bathtub, dryer, grooming table, shampoo, etc. You provide your own grooming tools. Only experienced need apply to: tailsrwaggin@hotmail. com

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Located in dog friendly Multnomah Village, the potential is huge for your business to grow quickly. You will also have the advantage of a built-in customer base with daycare clients needing your grooming talents. For more information please call 503-333-7546 (Cell). spot magazine

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Get a whiff of the latest in canine learning, competition K9 Nose Work is a new dog sport that allows dogs to use their natural ability to detect scent and determine its source. K9 students learn to find a specific scent anywhere in a room, field, or car, and there is competition for those interested, with multiple levels of trialing.

Any dog with a nose is suited to the activity — from puppies to seniors, and any mix or breed. Even dogreactive dogs can play, because only one canine at a time is working both in classes, training, and trialing. In fact, people across the country are noting how the focus of scent detection work is helping their reactive dogs ignore the environment and remain on task.

PetUtopia in Beaverton, OR is offering a “Try It Out” class Tuesday Aug. 17 at 7:15pm. The next sixweek class starts end of August/early September. To learn more or to register, contact Joyce at 206-8197297 or joycesdogs@gmail.com.

Biscuits made from extraordinary ingredients Port City Development Center (Port City), a Portland, OR-based nonprofit serving adults with disabilities, has introduced Waggin’ Tail Organic Dog Biscuits kits. The kits contain wholesome, organic dry ingredients to which pet guardians just add a few ingredients from the kitchen, roll and cut the dough using an attached dog bone cookie cutter, and bake.

Once baked, the biscuits can be stored in the echo-friendly paper bag the ingredients came in (provided they aren’t all eaten fresh from the oven!).

The leading ingredient? Love.

Buying Port City’s biscuits helps support people with disabilities in learning new skills, strengthening their self-sufficiency, and earning a paycheck. The Port City vocational

2 spot magazine | august 2010

center has been enriching the lives of adults with disabilities since 1978, focusing on capabilities, creativity, and diversity. The org. strives to support its employees through advocacy, employment, skills training and social and community involvement opportunities. To learn more about Port City or order biscuits, visit portcitydevelopment.org. Waggin’ Tail Dog Biscuits kits are also available at Green Dog Pet Supply, Pets on Broadway, Portland Pet Supply and Whole Foods in the Pearl.

Vancouver doggy daycare turns 2 Tails R Waggin Doggy Daycare in West Vancouver celebrates its 2nd anniversary this month. Owners Charlie and Juli Gilbert extend their thanks to all the dogs and their people they serve. Also, they’ve rolled out a recently remodeled pack training facility, conveniently located near downtown with easy access to I-5. Tails R Waggin offers daycare, overnight boarding, flexy drop off and pickup times, and training and grooming at their spacious 6000sq ft indoor/outdoor facility. New training and obedience classes are starting now. Want to be a part of the pack? Check it out at tailsrwaggindoggydaycare.com.

You too can be a winning shooter Oregon Humane Society’s annual photo contest recently named Kathy Lillis the The Grand Prize winner with her portrait “Maggie.” Lillis also won in Best Photo of a Cat category with “Flo.” As if the accolades weren’t impressive enough, it’s even more so when you realize that Lillis is an amateur photographer, and she captured these shots with a household “point and shoot” camera.

Check out Pet Photography 101: Page 13 this issue!

Could her attendance at David Childs’s photography classes at OHS have given her an edge? We think so! And now that edge can be yours.

Childs begins a series of “classes” on pet photography this month in Spot. You’ll find David’s tricks of the trade simple, usable and effective.

Great guy, GREAT photographer. And now, he’s at your service as a great teacher. Who knows, maybe one day in addition to saying you studied under Childs, you’ll be sharing the news of winning a photo contest yourself. . .Or maybe just enjoying the treasure you created through a few simple techniques you learned from a guy at the top of his craft.

As heat waves come and go this year, we’ve seen the usual horrors of pets — mostly dogs — suffering and/or dying from heatstroke as a result of being left in parked cars. Just last week, a Bronx, NY, man left his Maltese in his van — with the windows cracked — while he went for a swim at a state park. The temperature inside the van climbed to 140˚, and despite intervention by park police, the dog did not survive.

Even on mild days, the interior of a car can hit 102˚ in minutes — up to 120˚ within a half-hour, which, when you’re out and about can easily fly by. Leaving windows open a bit doesn’t help. And, dogs’ bodies don’t work like peoples’ — while humans have sweat glands everywhere to regulate body heat, dogs cool down mostly by panting, which is much less efficient than sweating. In the blink of an eye, a dog with a high body temperature can suffer critical damage to his nervous system, heart, liver and brain.

Numerous states and many municipalities have passed laws to address the problem of animals left in cars in extreme temperatures, many of which authorize police and animal control officers and others to enter a vehicle by any means necessary to remove an animal.

If you see an animal alone in a car on a hot day, immediately try to find the car’s owner. If you can’t, or if the owner refuses to act, contact local law enforcement and/or animal control. For more info, and related fliers from the ASPCA that can be downloaded, printed and handed out, visit Aspca.org.

ON A RELATED NOTE

Introducing . . . The world’s first live car temp weather station!

The Sonoma Humane Society in California has launched the first-ever Live Car Temperature Weather Station. The “Paw Gauge” provides real-time temperature readings inside a car throughout the day. Check it out at sonomahumane.org.

OHS says,

“There’s a Cat For That”

A recent release from Oregon Humane Society said, “The newest iPhone may have thousands of clever applications that claim to do everything, but the computer geniuses who invented the iPhone so far lack the most important application of all: a cat.”

The release, published in conjunction with an adoption campaign last month, went on to say,

“

We found that when it comes to satisfying the greatest number of needs for the greatest number of people, there’s no application on the iPhone that comes close to a cat.

“

Parked cars = OVENS on wheels

— Need a frisky play partner? There’s a cat for that.

— Someone to nap with? There’s cat for that.

— Need to hear soothing sounds that instantly relax you?

There’s a cat for that.

Check out the video on YouTube.

From the

‘only a matter of time’ file

“Canine Caviar” has opened in Manhattan. The daily 40,000-some people who visit Time Warner Center’s restaurants, shops and Whole Foods Market now have a new doggie bag to take home — one from Canine Caviar, maker of holistic pet foods, which has opened its first healthy pet food superstore. Learn more about the company and its products at CCNYC.tv.

Too Hot Out? OHS says “come on in” People and pets were able to escape ill effects of last month’s heat wave at the Oregon Humane Society, which opened its lobby as a cooling center for pets and their people.

Very Cool!

MEET

TUCKER!

Lovebug, eager to please, ready to go home!

Tucker is a handsome 8-yr-old little guy who would love nothing more than to spend the day with his family. He’s a lover who’s eager to please. While shy on the first date, given a little time Tucker warms up to become the life of the party. He loves spending time with you, lazy days in the sun, cuddling on the couch, and playing fetch with stuffed toys. To meet this sweet boy, contact bccr@chirescue.org.

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Advertiser Directory ADOPTION / RESCUE Multnomah County Animal Services . . . . . . . . . . . 11 BOARDING / DAYCARE Cooper Mountain Kennel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Countryside Pet Spa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Laurel Acres Kennels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Rock Creek Kennels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Tails R Waggin’. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 CREMATION / MEMORIAL / HOME EUTHANASIA Compassionate Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Dignified Pet Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Loved Forever Memorials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Memoreasy Keepsakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 EVENTS MCAS Rabies, Lic, ‘Chip Clinic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Tualatin Crawfish Festival. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 FITNESS Paws Aquatics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 FOOD BiMart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Snowfire - distributor of fine foods . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Solid Gold Northwest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 FUNDRAISING Shannon the Avon Lady . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 GROOMERS WANTED Wilco. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 GROOMING Cooper Mountain Kennel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Countryside Pet Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 PET SITTING Hearts of Gold Pet Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Town & Country . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

PORTRAITS Painted Dog Studios. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 PRODUCTS Dawg Daze Direct. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Healthy Pets Northwest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Mutt Mitt Pet Polution Solution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Nature’s Pet Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Not For Dogs Only Gluten-Free . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Snowfire - distributor of fine foods . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 XO of Central Oregon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 SUPPLIES BiMart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Healthy Pets Northwest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 SOCIAL / PET NETWORKING pdxdog.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 SPAY / NEUTER Multnomah County Animal Services . . . . . . . . . . . 11 VACATION RENTALS Bennington Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Idyllic Beach House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16, 25 VETERINARY CARE Animal Allergy & Ear Clinic of Oregon. . . . . . . . . . 24 Back on Track Veterinary Rehabilitation Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 East Padden Animal Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Rose City Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 WELLNESS Animal Allergy & Ear Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Back on Track. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Paws Aquatics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Aug 5, 2010: harold shepherd on his petition to the U.s. supreme Court to end the practice of assigning the winning parent’s attorney’s fees to the parent who loses a custody modification action in court, if brought in good faith.

Aug 12, 2010: Connie on trying to get custody of her son from Dhs.

Aug 19, 2010: grace reed on the persecution of the Bahai in iran, the world’s most recent religion.

Aug 26, 2010: sonja harju with an update on oregon issues.

98.1 FM • kpsu.org webcast 24/7 • huge diversity

Magazine

31 Saturday • PORTLAND • 10am — Mountain Dog Meetup at Fernhill Park. Meet at the SE corner of the park at 41st & Ainsworth. Details ldmiller@aracnet. com or 503-282-6706.

• PORTLAND • 11am — Bones & Brew Festival, a family- and dog-friendly event benefiting the Oregon Zoo through 5pm Aug. 1 in Portland’s Pearl District. Highlights include 30+ microbrews from Oregon craft breweries, barbeque from local champions, Kobe Bleu Ball & Chicken Wing Eating Contests and live music Saturday afternoon & evening. Enter at NW 14th & Flanders. Saturday 11-9, Sunday 11-5; $3 donation requested at the door. Details www. rogue.com.

1 Sunday • SALEM — It’s the height of “kitten season” and Willamette Humane Society (WHS) is asking Salem and surrounding area residents to open their hearts and homes to one of the many cats and kittens currently available for adoption.

Throughout August, WHS is offering reduced adoption fees: $20/adult cats (one year or older), $30/kittens. Details willamettehumane.org.

• TIGARD — The new InBark doggy daycare is open and offering workshops (some free), training classes and more. Details www.goinbark. com or 503-530-8918.

• vERNONIA — Indigo Day Camp at OCU at Indigo Ranch is now available, with daily bus trips to the ranch via their custom Oregon Canine Express Bus. Like kids on a school bus, Monday through Friday, client dogs meet at the “bus stop,” load-up into crates bolted for safety, and ride to the ranch for a day of play and fresh air (all-day recess!). The dogs return at day’s end for pick up by the “parents.” Details indigoranch. org.

• PORTLAND • 10:30am — T Touch for Dogs workshop at Oregon Humane Society. Learn this fun & effective relaxation method to boost your dog’s mental and physical health. Cost $65 with Dog, $45 without. Details/register at www. oregonhumane.org/pet_training.

AUgUst • 2010 Magazine • PLEASANT HILL OR • 11am — Canine socials at Opportunity Barks. Small dogs (to 30 lbs) ‘til noon, larger dogs noon-1. Coffee & homemade treats for dogs & humans. Details 541-726-8435.

• SHERWOOD • Noon — The Cat Food Bank is open ‘til 2 at Cat Adoption Team. The cat food bank provides cat food for guardians in financial need.

• HILLSBORO • 1pm — Puppy Romp at Schroeder’s Den with Dr. Kirsten Nielsen, CPDT. A weekly hour of fun & socialization for your puppy helps build a confident, well-adjusted dog. Trainer-supervised. Puppies 10 weeks to 6 months. Admission $8. Details/RSVP www.schroedersden.com or 503-614-9899.

5 Thursday • PORTLAND • 5pm —Meet Cat Artists in the Pearl. A special “Furs Thursday” display at Tufenkian Artisan Carpets in the Pearl, 515 NW 10th Ave ‘til 8 features feline artists from OHS. Abstract paintings by cats available for purchase, and the cats themselves will be available for adoption. Details www.oregonhumane.org.

• PORTLAND • 6:05pm — Get Out! Tune in for events happening this weekend for pets and their people. Spot’s Furry FunPlanner report opens the KPSU Family Show on 1450 AM.

6 Friday • SHERWOOD — Cat Adoption Discount through Aug. 15. Receive 50% off any cat/kitten adoption through the CATnip Friday 5k.

• PORTLAND • 1pm — Off-leash Control workshop at Oregon Humane Society. Learn how to get your dog’s attention outside & improve control on walks or at the park. In this 4-week series ($85), dogs learn how to handle distractions and gain focus while you relax and enjoy having your dog off leash.

Details/registration www.oregonhumane.org/ pet_training.

7 Saturday • BORING • 8:30am — Boot Scootin’ Bow Wow Fun Day. Guide Dogs for the Blind Hosts a Doggy Rodeo for Active Guide Dogs with presentations, seminars, games and activities at

32901 Southeast Kelso Road, Boring.

8 Sunday

• SALEM • 9am — New volunteer Orientation at the Marion County Dog Shelter in Salem. Details • PLEASANT HILL OR • 11am — Canine socials at Opportunity Barks. Small dogs (to 30 lbs) ‘til 503-566-6966 or sheard@co.marion.or.us. noon, larger dogs noon-1. Coffee & homemade • ALOHA OR • 10am — 8th annual Dog Day treats for dogs & humans. Details 541-726-8435.

Afternoon ‘til 4 at Hazeldale Dog Park. Raffles, contests, blessing of the animals, shopping, food, • PORTLAND • Noon — OHS Adoption Outreach at Kiehl’s 712 NW 23rd Ave. ‘til 3.

Skyhoundz Disc Dog Competition, X-Fidos Flyball, Dogs Gone Dancin’ Canine Freestyle, JAG Canine • PORTLAND — The Pongo Fund Pet Food Agility, AKC Canine Good Citizen testing & more.

Bank, helping anyone who needs help feeding A benefit for the Hazeldale Off Leash Dog Park. their pet(s), is open ‘til 3 at 910 NE MLK Jr Blvd Details hazeldaledogpark@yahoo.com. in Portland. Details www.thepongofund.org .

• PORTLAND • 10am — OHS Adoption Outreach • PORTLAND • 1pm — Memorial Art Community at Town Center Park in Wilsonville ‘til 5, at Furever Workshop at DoveLewis in NW Portland.

Pets, 1902 NE Broadway, noon-4, and at Soma Families 1-2:30, ages 16-adult 3-4:30. Enid Arts Lounge, 4340 SE Madison, 6:30-9pm.

Traisman MSW facilitates. Create a unique memento of your beloved and spend a little • PORTLAND • 10am — Pet Nutrition & News with time in good company. Free; RSVP to www.

Chip Sammons on KKPZ, 1330 AM radio. Chip dovelewis.org/giftshop. helps you help your pets live long, healthy, happy lives. Airs every Saturday at 10.

• HILLSBORO • 1pm — Puppy Romp at Schroeder’s Den with Dr. Kirsten Nielsen, • EUGENE • 11am — Hot Dogs & Cool Pups Fun CPDT. A weekly hour of fun & socialization for in the Sun at Alton Baker Park. Save the Pets your puppy helps build a confident, well-adjusted presents Battle of the bands, vendors, a beer dog. Trainer-supervised. Puppies 10 weeks to garden, pet-related entertainment, agility demos 6 months. Admission $8. Details/RSVP www. and more ‘til 9:30. schroedersden.com or 503-614-9899.

WOODBURN • 11am — Adoption Outreach with Marion County Dog Shelter at PetSense ‘til 4.

Come meet some sweet, adoptable dogs.

• SHERWOOD/ PORTLAND METRO * Noon — Adopt a Cat this Weekend. The Kitten Road Show resumes Aug. 7, and 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 the weekends of Aug. 14, 21 & 28.

• PORTLAND • 3pm — Puppy Manners program at OHS. Puppies under 16 weeks can begin whenever convenient. Class covers socialization, boundary-setting, setting puppy up for success at home, basic cues and tips on potty-training and crate-training. Cost $125/5 sessions. Details oregonhumane.org.

• PORTLAND • 5pm — PUPPY ROMP at OHS. Exposing your puppy to new dogs can help prevent behavioral problems later. Expose your sweetie to other healthy puppies and allow them to run, play and socialize. Cost $15/puppy. Details oregonhumane.org.

10 Tuesday • PORTLAND • 5pm — Intro to Basic Manners Dog Training classes at Oregon Humane.

Fun, positive dog training classes built for flex schedules. Intro classes ($15) offered at varying times today & Aug. 28. Training classes offered Tues-Fri. Advance at your own pace; by a “training pass” and go when convenient.

• PORTLAND • 6pm — Pet First Aid class at DoveLewis in the Pearl. Learn the basics so you’ll always be prepared in an emergency.

Attendees must be 12 or older. Free; details www.dovelewis.org.

12 Thursday • PORTLAND • 6:05pm — Get Out! Tune in for events happening this weekend for pets and their people. Spot’s Furry FunPlanner report opens the KPSU Family Show on 1450 AM.

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13 Friday • PORTLAND • 9am — Odds & Ends for Furry Friends Garage Sale ‘til 4 at 5335 SW 42nd Ave. Proceeds benefit Animal Aid. Details 503-292-6628 or www.

AnimalAidPDX.org .

• SHERWOOD • 5pm — CATnip Friday 5k & Mouse Miler steps off from Sherwood High School.

The only benefit run/walk for homeless cats and CAT. Venue opens at 5 and the run/walk starts at 6:50. Registration $20/advance, $25/event day. Details running@ catnipfriday5k.org; registration www.catnipfriday5k.org/catnip/ registration.

14 Saturday • JUNCTION CITY OR • 7am — All Breed Lure Coursing Trials at Foxglove Farm. Detail npisias@ comcast.net.

• EUGENE • 9am — 2010 Flying Disc Festival at Westmoreland Community Park at 22nd & Polk in Eugene ‘til 4. Flying Disc Central south of the Kidsports office at 2190 Polk. Events to include: Distance, Maximum Time Aloft (MTA), Accuracy, Disc Golf and Canine Completion. Details www. pdga.com/super-class-article or 541-682-5409.

• LAKE OSWEGO • 9am — Test Drive a Dog with the Red Lizard Running Club. Volunteers from Multnomah County Animal Shelter transport highly adoptable dogs that will benefit from a little exercise. This is a great opportunity for people seeking a walking/jogging/running companion to “take them for a test drive.” Details multcopets.org.

• KEIZER • 10am — Adoption

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Outreach at Keizer Riverview Fair at Keizer Rapids Park (at the west end of Chemawa Road) ‘til 4:30.

• MANZANITA BEACH • 10am — Muttzanita. Contests include ChuckIt Toss, Pet Talent and Fashion Show. Also: product demos, a doggie spa, pet photography, a doggie carnival and live entertainment. Proceeds benefit United Paws and the Rinehart Clinic’s Well-Child Program.

• PORTLAND • 10am — OHS Adoption Outreach at Conestoga Recreation & Aquatic Center in Beaverton ‘til 2 and at The Dog Club of West Linn 10-3.

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

• MILWAUKIE • 10:30— Potluck Picnic to benefit NW Shibas for Life at North Clackamas Park ‘til 2:30. Highlights: guest speakers, a silent auction and lots of Shibas who have been rescued and some in need of rescue.

• vERNONIA, OR • 10am — Indigo Summer DogFest 2010 today ‘til 7pm at Indigo Ranch. Activities for dogs and their people include workshops, demos, games, arts & crafts, hay rides, live music and a professional portrait photographer.

Dogs can enjoy supervised play while their humans enjoy nondog activities. Kids and friendly, leashed dogs welcome. All profits from OCU business ops funnel directly into Indigo’s nonprofit activities. Details 503-429-0806 or info@oregoncanineuniversity.org.

• BEAvERTON • 11am — 6th annual Bow Bash at Garden Home Recreation Center ‘til 3.

Dog Olympics, K-9 Police Unit, info booths & animal orgs, silent auction, food, flyball and more.

• PORTLAND • 11am — One Year Anniversary Party at Nature’s Pet, 111 NW 21st Ave. ‘til 5.

Details 503-360-1244.

• SALEM • 11am — Adoption Outreach with Marion County Dog Shelter at Salem Petsmart on Lancaster ‘til 4.

• WEST LINN • 11am — 1st annual Pet Festival, presented by The Dog Club of West Linn ‘til 4 at the club. Admission is free. Local pet care professionals will answer questions and present products & services. Also: pet contests with prizes, local veterinary clinics, pet food demos, authors, and The Pet Geek, Cynthia Kurtz.

• BEAvERTON • Noon — Find some bunny to Love. Meet sweet adoptables and their Rabbit Advocates at Western Pet Supply in Beaverton ‘til 3. Conversation/ info about care & adoption, plus light grooming & nail trims for visiting bunnies (suggested donation). Details adoptarabbit. org.

• PORTLAND • Noon — New Seasons Market Benefit BBQ for DoveLewis. Get your choice of a beef or veggie burger on an organic roll, fruit & beverage for $6 at any Portland-area New Seasons ‘til 4 and give Dove a boost.

15 Sunday • PORTLAND • 10am — OHS Adoption Outreach at PetSmart in Tigard ‘til 3 and at PetSmart in Beaverton, noon-4.

• PLEASANT HILL OR • 11am — Canine socials at Opportunity Barks. Small dogs (to 30 lbs) ‘til noon, larger dogs noon-1. Coffee & homemade treats for dogs & humans. Details 541-726-8435.

• PORTLAND • 12:30pm — Finicky Feline class at Oregon Humane in Portland. Great for new or soon-tobe pet guardians, and those who just want to know what makes their favorite feline tick. Free; no need to RSVP. Please leave pets at home. Details oregonhumane.org.

HILLSBORO • 1pm — Puppy Romp at Schroeder’s Den with Dr. Kirsten Nielsen, CPDT. A weekly hour of fun & socialization for your puppy helps build a confident, well-adjusted dog. Trainersupervised. Puppies 10 weeks to 6 months. Admission $8. Details/ RSVP www.schroedersden.com or 503-614-9899.

18 Wednesday • SALEM • 5:30pm — New volunteer Orientation at the Marion County Dog Shelter.

Details 503-566-6966 or sheard@ co.marion.or.us.

19 Thursday • PORTLAND • 6:05pm — Get Out! Tune in for events happening this weekend for pets and their people.

Spot’s Furry FunPlanner report opens the KPSU Family Show on 1450 AM. • PORTLAND • 6:30pm — OHS Adoption Outreach at Carnegie Center in Oregon City ‘til 8:30.

21 Saturday • CAMAS • 7am — Lacamas valley Sheep Dog Trial Thurs-Sun at Johnston Dairy Farm, 104 NE 252nd Ave. in Camas, WA. The largest sheep herding competition in the Northwest, this competitive, sanctioned event attracts handlers from 9 states and BC, running 225 dogs over the four-day event.

Spectators welcome, spectator dogs under strict supervision.

Concessions open daily.

Admission $3; kids 12 & under and seniors free. Details www.lvsdt. com .

• PORTLAND • 9:15am — 3rd annual Corgi Walk begins at 10 at Urban Fauna Pet Store, 235 NW Park Ave. in the Pearl. A 2-hour crazy Corgi stroll. Admission $25.

Details/RSVP Lynde Paule, 503227-2187.

• PORTLAND • 10am — Pet Nutrition & News with Chip Sammons on KKPZ, 1330 AM

radio. Chip helps you help your pets live long, healthy, happy lives.

• PORTLAND • 10am — OHS Adoption Outreach at Lexi Dog in the Pearl ‘til 2 and at In Bark, 14865 SW 72nd Ave. in Tigard, noon-4.

• WOODBURN • 10am — License Amnesty / vaccination clinic at Woodburn Pet Hospital, 985 Evergreen Rd. Receive a free rabies vaccination while supplies last with the purchase or renewal of a Marion County Dog License.

• PORTLAND • 10:30 — 9th annual Multnomah Days Dog Wash ‘til 2 at Lucky Lab Public House in Multnomah Village. It starts with a fun community parade and ends with a dog wash to benefit the DoveLewis blood bank. Even if you can’t make the parade, dog washing teams are standing by to scrub your dirty pooch.

• SALEM • 11am — Adoption Outreach with Marion County Dog Shelter at Salem Saturday Market ‘til 4.

• BANKS • Noon — BeaglePalooza.

Cascade Beagle Rescue’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Bring your Beagle for fun, games, contests & prizes ‘til 5. All proceeds support the rescue, medical care and placement of Beagles in need.

Details www.beaglepalooza.com .

• PORTLAND • 12:30pm — Problem Pooch class at Oregon Humane in Portland. Great for new or soonto-be pet guardians, and those who just want to know what makes Fido tick. Free; no need to RSVP. Please leave pets at home. Details oregonhumane.org.

• PORTLAND • 6:30pm — Port City’s Film Release, Fundraiser and Celebration at Port City, 2124 N Williams Ave. The film,

by Portland director Karl Lind showcases Port City and those they serve while looking at past, present and future services for individuals with disabilities. Hors d’oeuvres, live jazz and good company. RSVP to amilholland@

portcitydevelopment.org.

TIGARD * Noon — Dog Days of Summer at Whole Foods Market ‘til 4 to benefit Project POOCH. Take the pooch and join in for great games & food. Also dog washes, nail trims, a microchip clinic, animal communicator and contests with prizes.

22 Sunday • PLEASANT HILL OR • 11am — Canine socials at Opportunity Barks. Small dogs (to 30 lbs) ‘til noon, larger dogs noon-1. Coffee & homemade treats for dogs & humans. Details 541-726-8435.

• PORTLAND • 11am — Dog Wash at Whole Foods at 2825 E Burnside to benefit OHS ‘til 3. Aussie Pet Grooming is volunteering their services.

Suggested $10-$30 donation gets the pooch a shampoo, rinse & quick dry.

• PORTLAND • 12pm — The Pongo Fund Pet Food Bank, helping anyone who needs help feeding their pet(s), is open ‘til 3 at 910 NE MLK Jr Blvd in Portland. Details www.thepongofund.org.

• HILLSBORO • 1pm — Puppy Romp at Schroeder’s Den with Dr. Kirsten Nielsen, CPDT. A weekly hour of fun & socialization for your puppy helps build a confident, well-adjusted dog.

Trainer-supervised. Admission $8. Details/RSVP www. schroedersden.com or 503-6149899.

• PORTLAND • 5pm — Jake’s Dog Day of Summer at Jake’s Famous Crawfish downtown.

Enjoy dinner with your best friend.

For $55/person + dog guests enjoy a 3-course meal made in one of Portland’s finest kitchens.

Proceeds benefit DoveLewis.

Space is limited; RSVP to 503226-1419.

Adoption Team. $50 off adoption fees when you adopt two cats at the same time.

25 Wednesday • PORTLAND • 6pm — Waggy Hour: Pinot Pageantry with LexiDog Boutique & Social Club and OHS at the Jupiter Hotel, 800 E. Burnside in Portland ‘til 8.

26 Thursday • vANCOUvER — The Truth About Bully Breeds, a lecture by Humane Society staff and representatives from Pacific NW Pit Bull Rescue at The Humane Society for SW Washington.

Learn the facts and myths about bully breeds and how they can make a wonderful addition to any family. Details southwesthumane.org.

• PORTLAND • 5pm — Pets on the Street of Dreams.

Join OHS in touring beautiful homes . . . and picturing a new furry friend in yours.

OHS adoptables will be at Street of Dreams ‘til 8, and the evening includes seminars on pet-friendly landscaping, pet products, pet health, the environment and your pet, plus complimentary hors d’ oeuvres and beverages. Details streetofdreamspdx.com • PORTLAND • 6:05pm — Get Out! Tune in for events happening this weekend for pets and their people. Spot’s Furry FunPlanner report opens the KPSU Family Show on 1450 AM.

27 Friday • PORTLAND — Pink Martini performs at the Oregon Zoo. Tickets $32 @ Ticketmaster.

28 Saturday • PORTLAND • 10am — Pet Nutrition & News with Chip Sammons on KKPZ, 1330 AM radio. Chip helps you help your pets live long, healthy, happy lives. Airs every Saturday at 10.

SALEM • 11am — Adoption Outreach with Marion County Dog Shelter at Salem Petco on Lancaster ‘til 4.

WILSONvILLE • 11am — 4th annual Great Danes of Summer event at Wilsonville’s Memorial Park at the Forest Shelter. Bring your Dane or other canine companion and enjoy food, contests, education information & a raffle. The fun goes ‘til 4. Details pdxdanes.com .

PORTLAND • Noon — OHS Adoption Outreach at PetsMart, 9450 SE 82nd Ave. ‘til 4.

29 Sunday PLEASANT HILL OR • 11am — Canine socials at Opportunity Barks. Small dogs (to 30 lbs) ‘til noon, larger dogs noon-1. Coffee & homemade treats for dogs & humans. Details 541-7268435.

PORTLAND • 11am — OHS Adoption Outreach at Petco, 14410 SE Division ‘til 3.

HILLSBORO • 1pm — Puppy Romp at Schroeder’s Den with Dr. Kirsten Nielsen, CPDT. A weekly hour of fun & socialization for your puppy helps build a confident, well-adjusted dog. Trainer-supervised. Puppies 10 weeks to 6 months. Admission $8.

Details/RSVP schroedersden.com

• PORTLAND — Pink Martini performs at the Oregon Zoo. Tickets $32 @ Ticketmaster.

23 Monday • SHERWOOD — Because life is Better with a Buddy at Cat

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