Spot Magazine - October / November 2015

Magazine

WE ! OUR AGING PETS

Health / Behavior Resources

Love Stories Holiday Gift Ideas EVERYTHING PET IN THE NORTHWEST • OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

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Best Friends … Forever Magazine Vol. 10 • No. 7

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jen Biglan, Michelle Blake, Christy Caballero, Christy Caplan, Larry Chusid, Michele Coppola, Vonnie Harris, Blaine Holland, Megan Mahan, Kimberly Maus, Camilla Mortensen, Vanessa Salvia, Amy Schneider, Andrea Schneider

OUR TEAM Jennifer McCammon

Publisher Publisher@SpotMagazine.net

Vonnie Harris

Events, Distribution, Webmaster, Writer/Social Media Vonnie@SpotMagazine.net

Marnie McCammon

Rebecca Zinkgraf

Graphic Design minepress@gmail.com

Megan Mahan

Eugene/Springfield Office Marnie@SpotMagazine.net 541-741-1242

Writer/Social Media Megan@SpotMagazine.net

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W

e love doing special editions dedicated to the oldsters — they transport us all into a sacred, lovefilled space.

My pack is now 14, 14, and 15. Just weeks shy of 16, Scout left us in July. I treasure the gift of having this tough little girl with me for so long — against all odds, as she was the product of a puppy mill.

Lula, Peach and Roxy’s lives continue to evolve. Walks are shorter and slower, vet visits more frequent, meds on the counter more plentiful.

Yet on they go, each of them vibrant, amazing, hearts-on-wheels.

Lula is my “Who Rescued Who” baby, and also my “Wretched Redheaded Rescue.” You couldn’t imagine a more thug little 15-pounder after being pulled from “the block.” I discovered the little bumps all over her body were scabs from bites by large dogs she’d been caged with. When she arrived that winter I was broken too. We spent her first weeks huddled near the fire, holding on to each other.

Recently Lula went blind, seemingly overnight. Still, she is spiritfilled, and best of all, recently shed of her wont to bite . . . a profound measure of how far she’s come.

Peach was “payment” for a debt long ago, from an ailing friend who had me care for her as a puppy while he dealt with hospital stays.

Over time she began to act out when she went home — mine had become her happy place. Leaving grew increasingly hard, and finally he let her stay for good.

She’s been causing trouble ever since.

Insistent on affection, a tomboy with a gruff little voice, dismissive of correction, Peach is a study in contrasts. I was surprised early on to learn that when I left the house she cried at the door the whole time I was gone! She now does the same with others she loves.

Roxy joined us late in life, a 73-lb Boxer-Ridgeback you can’t help but love. I resisted taking her in 4 years ago — 5-lb Scout was then 12 and blind — afraid she might knock Scout down the stairs. She never did, and she’s with us still, immeasurably brightening our world.

For all the late-life adventures . . . the medical events, the challenge of ensuring GREAT care when I have to leave town . . . the eventual need for baby food and diapers . . . I wouldn’t trade it. They are a glowing thread in the tapestry of my life.

Enjoy this issue! It’s packed with great resources for the golden years . . . and love stories from readers and friends.

This is a glimpse of mine !

Published bi-monthly. Distributed in Portland Metro, Willamette Valley and surrounding areas.All rights reserved. Reproduction (whole or part) without permission prohibited.

© 2015 LIVING OUT LOUD INC WWW.SPOTMAGAZINE.NET

www.spotmagazine.net | 3

Holiday Gift Ideas 16-17

18

WE ! OUR AGING PETS

DEPARTMENTS 43 Rescue Me

Sweetpeas in need of forever loving families. Meet some very special cats, dogs, and small animals ready to come home. Some have special needs, some are older, while some have just been in shelter too long.

42 Matchmaker

The Doberman Pinscher Runchy little newsbits to chew on Help end horse soring Rose City Vet Tech wins PVMA Award Get in the spirit with Bowser’s Boo Bash For the ! of seniors Take a drive-thru Portland’s new pet supply Hallmark Channel goes to the dogs Need help choosing good cat food?

Record-breaking animals steal the show New campaign benefits shelters nationwide DoveLewis now offers internal medicine Get your Meow! on

40 Fetch • • • • • • • • • • • •

FEATURES 39 How old is your dog? Just what makes a “senior” ?

9 LOVE stories

Beloved local personalities Kimberly Maus, Andrea Schneider and Larry Chusid welcome us into their lives with their beloved best friends

30 Help for creaky joints - treatments are abundant and improving

Readers share photos and love notes celebrating their beloved older sweetpeas

45

ry

ne

Fu r

18 ENDLESS LOVE

r

34 Still Lucy . . . Dealing with Dementia F u nP la n

28 Blindness Doesn’t Keep a Good Dog Down 32 All about That Brush: The importance of dental care 22 When the time comes . . . there’s help 24 Keep your old dog young at heart !

38 Living on a fixed income . . . with senior pets 26 Good food for a good long life 8 Local Photographer focuses on the golden girls . . . and boys 4 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

30

Autumn W

hat do we do when our loving pets face the last leg of the race? We do all we can to help them finish well, of course. We take time to read the unspoken needs of the friend we've come to know so well. We give the simple reassurance of a loving touch when the old boy seems confused for no reason.

We groom them faithfully, but more gently, as age brings muscle wasting, and the arthritic bones aren't so well padded. We learn to slow down for their sake, as they enjoy the scent of the wind, or track a visitor’s trail across their yard. We expect to be inconvenienced and aren't angry when it happens.

We watch for pain and treat it, watch for changes in vision and hearing and do what we can to help preserve those precious senses for as long as possible.

We take care of their teeth and make sure their food is a manageable texture. We remind them of the need for a potty walk when they seem to forget.

We remember the little rewards — we scratch the graying ears and tummy, and go for car rides together.

When the pet we love has an unexplained need for comfort, we give it freely. When infirmities bring a sense of vulnerability, we become our old guardian's protector.

We watch their deepest slumbers, when dreams take them running across long-forgotten fields, and we remember those fields too.

When they cannot stand alone, we lift them. When their steps are uncertain, we steady them. And if their health fails, it falls to us to make the choice that will gently put them to rest.

Until that time comes, we pause to let the autumn sun warm our old friend's bones. And we realize, autumn is not a bad time of year at all. Old age is not a disease or a reason to give up. It is a stage of life that brings its own changes. Autumn can be a beautiful time of harvest.

And, sometimes, the harvest is love. — Christy Caballero

www.spotmagazine.net | 5

Thank You

to these fine partner businesses for helping make this special edition possible!

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And their golden years are magical . . . yet also filled with change, challenge and scary moments.

We ! Our Aging Pets is a celebration of our wonderful seniors, and a guide filled with information and resources to help you ensure your beloved’s later years are as comfy, happy and healthy as possible.

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SoulSessions capture lifelong love Christy Caballero • Spot Magazine

P

ortlander Kristin Zabawa’s career in photography has managed to let her venture into the valley of the shadow of death, from where she returns with beautiful images. Zabawa says when it comes to people whose companion animals are approaching life’s end, it is often an intensely private and painful time, but one in which being emotionally beset can interfere with memories.

That's one of the reasons Zabawa, a former zookeeper, makes herself available to join alongside people and their pets to gently photograph precious moments while there’s time.

Some pet parents who’ve asked Zabawa to photograph their late-life pets have said the images have been critical in helping them process their grief. Zabawa says for her, the sessions are almost like a meditative practice.

She is “a respectful, quiet witness,” never using flash photography. Capturing late-life moments between people and their animal family members is what Zabawa calls SoulSessions.

"People have shared with me that their SoulSession has given them a quiet time to just be with the soul who has given them so much,” Zabawa shares. “A chance to feel the love, and to love and remember a life shared.

To have the images from this time can help

8 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

them feel the presence of their animal kin, to feel the love will always surround them.”

Zabawa doesn't charge for the sessions, but will accept donations.

Her goal is to establish a nonprofit, enabling her to do the work full time.

In a crowd-funding effort toward this end, she has received support from as far away as Vietnam, Peru, and Germany, with several UK sites picking up her story.

The images on Zabawa’s website of those private moments say it all: A woman with soft lines etched in her face lays her cheek gently against her beloved cat. A little girl sweetly cradles her kitty. A family curls around their aged dog, cradling their beloved in beating hearts and loving arms.

The love shines in both directions, and the camera doesn't lie. And therein lies the magic.

Captured in the breadth of a camera shutter, preserved forever, shines the love of a lifetime, shared between precious animals and their people.

Learn more at SoulSessions photography on Facebook.

Christy Caballero writes from her soul about animals.

She's received four Maxwell Awards from the Dog Writers Assn of America. There are two retired racers (greyhounds) and one kinda neurotic foster greyhound and three BIG RagaMuffin kitties at home who are occasionally impressed enough to let her and her hubby Herb sit on the couch with them.

Kim &

Blake Ellie &

Andrea Larry

&

Scooby

Love Stories

For the love of

Blake

Kimberly Maus • Spot Magazine

“Thump, thump, thump.”

That’s the sound I hear each morning from my precious dog as he wakes to greet the day with a wagging tail. My heart thumps in response, bursting with love for him.

I adopted Blake from a local shelter, a big, goofy, 7-month-old Golden Retriever mix with floppy ears and chunky feet. It seems like yesterday we were bounding through the pet store, loading up on "new dog necessities." Now, 12 years later, Blake's gallop has slowed to a jolly trot, and dozens of stuffed animals and chew toys later, he still has some of his favorites from our first days together.

He is a distinguished older gentleman now, with a soft white face and deep soulful eyes. He may sleep a little more and move a little less these days, but I treasure every moment. His health and happiness are a priority for me more than ever.

Blake has some of the common problems of aging.

Arthritis in his low back prompted the purchase of a super-comfy orthopedic dog bed a couple of years ago.

It’s better than my mattress, although I won’t tell you how I know! Still, muscles start the day tight, so I stretch his hips and legs each morning to help his movement. Blake also gets massages. I recently took a class to learn the best techniques for not only easing his muscle tension, but increasing his overall well-being. He loves it! Exercise is key for Blake, too. He still runs when a squirrel dares to cross our property line, but he most looks forward to our daily walks, which grow more meaningful to me as the days pass.

One thing that hasn’t slowed is Blake’s mind. We began playing “Go Find It” when he was a puppy. It’s a fun start to his day, and a routine he expects. He makes a point to pop his nose around the corner in the morning to make sure I’m on task. He patiently waits while I hide treats around the house for him to sniff out. I truly believe this has kept his mind sharp as a tack. Obedience training has played an amazing role as well. Blake became a Canine Good Citizen when he was about a year old, and I feel it’s served his mind well. He always listens and obeys commands, and he’s still a bright, alert dog who’s a puppy at heart.

10 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

That’s not to say Blake has been a perfect little package since I brought him home. We’ve battled pancreatitis since puppyhood, and he’s overcome two major surgeries, one for a giant fatty tumor on his groin. The second occurred while I was writing this story.

We made our third visit of the year to DoveLewis — this time for a twisted stomach. Now, a week after surgery, he lays before me fast asleep, looking like a patchwork quilt from the stitches and shaved patches all over his body. Incredibly, his spunk and appetite have returned with vigor. In fact, he and I have had a few heart-to-heart chats about him needing to rest while he heals! Speaking of that big heart of his, Blake is now in early-stage heart disease, which was diagnosed last spring. We have it well-managed with twice-daily meds, and it’s going strong. I always joke that we keep the lights on at our vet’s office.

I don't count the dollars I've spent on Blake or the lost sleep awaiting news from the vet in the middle of the night. Not the endless scoops of poop or the many nighttime trips for his favorite treats — after noticing the jar was empty — for our morning game of "Go Find It." What I do count are the soft sighs as he falls asleep, the soft, blinking eyes as he gazes at me from across the room, and the wishes I have that they would last forever. I also count my blessings. Twelve years, four legs, and the endless happy thumping from my incredibly loving senior dog . . . and my heart.

Kimberly Maus co-anchors Good Day Oregon on Fox 12 each weekday morning. She lives in North Plains with her husband Matt, her dogs Blake and Rodeo, horses Peso and Maverick, and a donkey named Daisy Mae.

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Traveling through Life Together

The Adventures of Ellie, the Golden and Andrea, the Person Andrea Schneider • Spot Magazine

Ellie and I do almost everthing together; we are rarely apart. So much so that when she’s not with me, people ask, “Where’s Ellie?” I love having her with me; when she isn’t, I miss her energy.

We are getting older together, too. So far we’ve been lucky health-wise.

Ellie attracts attention wherever we are — waiting in line, sitting at a restaurant, walking in the park, shopping, in an airport. Wherever and whenever, people are drawn to her, and she to them. I have to add that she is beautiful, and I’ve learned that beautiful people and things actually attract a certain kind of attention. I’ve gotten used to it.

Ellie has an equally big personality, and is very smart. She is an experienced traveler, accompanying me on frequent trips between Portland and the Bay Area, sometimes by air, sometimes on the road. Ellie moves expertly through airports, and is a pro at being a well-behaved passenger — people hardly know she’s there. She always knows where we are — recognizing the people, the parks, every rest stop, and all our routes. She has developed habits, routines, and things she likes every place we go. It amazes me how she remembers.

She loves to walk on the Google campus, especially on weekends when we have the place to ourselves. We run around, jump in the ponds, and hang out on the colorful tables and chairs. Sometimes we watch as tourists pose for pictures in front of the Google signs. I want to take pictures of them taking pictures.

While I mentioned we are both healthy, I do have one glitch: I’ve had one form of breast cancer or another for 25 years. I have been treated at UCSF, and regardless of where I live, I have stayed with my medical team. There is no rhyme or reason why I’m still alive — they say I’m a bit of a medical anomaly.

Ellie has been part of my cancer experience every step of the way, and has always been amazing during rough treatments. She’s always given me reason to get up and out to walk with her. Her needs don’t change, and that’s been good for me.

A year ago I was diagnosed Stage 4, which changed my plans a little. I had to think about what would happen to Ellie if I died first — something I’d never considered. I had never doubted my survival before, no matter how tough things got. This time I had to. It’s weird.

I finally asked a dear friend who is crazy about Ellie if she and her family would care for her if I died. Of course, she said, yes. I knew Ellie would be loved and safe, and I was relieved.

We visit the beach at Chrissy Field at Golden Gate Park after my monthly medical appointments. Being in that open space together

12 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

is fun and a terrific counterpoint to the doctors and medical centers. If I didn’t have Ellie in my life, I wouldn’t have the same compelling reason to go to the beach and play. Ellie’s joy, chasing the ball in the ocean, is infectious and makes me happy.

Her personality and character give me so much life, and I know I make her happy too. We are safe together, traveling through life, whatever it throws our way.

Oh, and I’m happy to say: I’m doing really well — we both are.

Andrea is crazy about Ellie. In one of her former lives she opened the pearlretriever dog shop in the Pearl in 2004, and the dog-loving social network pdxdog.com in 2007 (now owned by Spot).

Andrea and Ellie live in Portland.

From puppies and kittens to spectacular seniors e v o l ! l e l a W m the

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Life with Larry Chusid • Spot Magazine

H

Scooby

e wakes up and dive-bombs into the first scratchy carpet he finds. His butt high in the air, his back legs and hips drive him forward, scratching every spot on his face. Left turn, right turn, forward and back.

He stops. Motionless. Just for a second. Then, boom! He explodes onto his back, continuing the scratch dance upside down and every which way he can. Jumping up when finished he ends with a big shake.

Good morning. His name is Scooby. A Beagle-Basset mix. He is 21 years old.

He was 17 and in rough shape. That’s why the shelter felt euthanasia was best. They said he was old. That he hurt — a lot. He could not hear much because his ears were swollen shut. He could not eat much because his teeth and mouth hurt.

But I didn’t know any of that. All I knew was that a 17-year-old dog with health issues was going to be euthanized in a shelter simply because he was a 17-year-old dog with health issues. It was not a time to place blame — that wouldn’t help. But I knew what my Pongo would want me to do.

Pongo, who had passed away in 2007 when he was almost 19. He would want me to help this friend named Scooby. And I knew he was right.

And that’s when Larry met Scooby.

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”

— Gandhi That long list of sad? I only learned those things after I’d met Scooby and reviewed the paperwork. It was a surprise, because when I met him it was like meeting a puppy.

His spirit was powerful and strong. He was buoyant, his eyes bright.

He climbed into my lap despite the horrible pain that should have made such movement impossible. And that’s all that mattered. He needed help and I could help. Done.

That was four years ago. Scooby celebrated his 21st birthday this past August 31st. Four years ago the paperwork said he should not have those four years. They were wrong.

Many things on that list remain. They don’t get fixed or go away. But what could be fixed has been. What has not changed? His spirit. His spark. His spunk. His inner Scooby!

And while he looks a bit unique thanks to some bulging and benign lipomas, what is most noticeable is his chi — he just bursts with it! The gusto contained in this 50-pound loveboat is beyond belief.

He’s had many families over the years — I think I’m his eighth. I met his last family. During the worst of times they became homeless, sleeping in an office building doorway. They tried, so hard — I know they did.

What they lacked in money they made up for in love. They loved Scooby to the moon and back. But the care he needed required more than just love.

But before these days of morning happy dances there was a long list of sad.

It hurts to write, it hurts to read. Severely worn and fractured teeth. Heavily infected ears. Large masses on the chest, abdomen, legs, paws, and more.

Painful arthritis in the hips and spine. Severe alopecia. Thickened skin in many places from chronic infection. Severe dental tartar. Gingivitis. Allergies. Bright pink skin. Multiple warts over entire body. Numerous hematomas. Fleas.

Multiple and serious medical issues. And more.

14 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

All that pain, yet he harbors no anger. He’s a mix of the Dalai Lama, Buddha and Gandhi. I kid you not. He is the essence of love. An essence that touches everything and everyone he meets. Even those he has not yet met.

Scooby breaks it down to the most simple; he finds the good.

Shortly after Scooby and I connected I was at a party and a friend introduced me to a well-known veterinarian. My friend began the introduction by telling this person I had just adopted a 17-year-old dog.

The vet’s reply? “You must like short relationships.”

More bad jokes followed.

He was the only one laughing. His wife pulled him away, telling him to stop. She later found me to apologize, saying he was like that sometimes.

But I knew what he was really like: he was scared.

That was all. How often do you meet someone who adopts a 17-year-old dog?

And as a lifelong veterinarian he knew what that meant.

He wasn’t trying to hurt me, but to keep from being hurt. He’d been there too many times himself.

When I saw him again a few years later I told him Scooby was doing great and was about to celebrate his 21st birthday. He smiled broadly, tears welling in his eyes.

Science and medicine and veterinary school could not prepare him for that moment. This time there were no bad jokes — just pure, heartfelt joy. This singular moment might have given this lifelong veterinarian more hope than any textbook ever could.

21. That’s 147 in dog years. Of course Scooby has some aches and pains. But I do, too. We spend a lot of time laughing together about our problems. And we feel better.

He swims. He runs on the beach. He tickles the ocean and tries to befriend every seagull he meets. He jogs on a therapy treadmill. He gets acupuncture and massage. He’s kissed an opossum. He caught a squirrel just to say hello. He has 10 beds. He received a Mayoral Proclamation. On his birthdays we share champagne. He lets me have most of it. That’s how he is.

“Until one has loved an animal, part of one's soul remains unawakened.”

— Anatole France There’s no endgame in sight, no bucket list.

We plan on being here for many years to come. Tomorrow’s another day, and we’ve got things to smell and places to pee.

We always buy food, supplements and meds in the biggest sizes possible. We just renewed Scooby’s license for three more years, the maximum. And yes, we’re fully expecting to renew it for another three years after that.

But there’s still that number. Scooby is 21. He’s considered an old dog.

But that’s not the point. For me, he’s just an old soul — he’s Scooby. He is Wise. Peaceful. Faithful. Kind. He brings Hope. Joy. Love. He brings it all.

Every day.

He should know. Because four years ago he was just days away from having no more days. Yet here he still is. Being Scooby.

Many tell me that Scooby is lucky that I adopted him. That he needed me. But they are wrong. I am the lucky one. Because it was me that needed him. And I love him so very, very much.

“I have sometimes thought of the final cause of dogs having such short lives and I am quite satisfied it is in compassion to the human race; for if we suffer so much in losing a dog after an acquaintance of ten or twelve years, what would it be if they were to live — Sir Walter Scott double that time?

Next August 31st we will celebrate his 22nd birthday. We’ve already got the champagne in the refrigerator.

Sit. Stay. Eat. Live. I Love Scooby.

Larry Chusid is a Portland-born entrepreneur and nonprofit activist whose accomplishments include several businesses and, more recently, the founding of The Pongo Fund in Portland, Oregon.

Every Friday he gets a couple of French fries.

Because it’s French Fry Friday.

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2016

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Endless Love

Spot invited (through Facebook) pet-loving friends and pet parents to share photos and tidbits about the beloved seniors in their lives.

As the stories and pictures came in, the Spot team paused many times to feel the power, share the tears, and appreciate the phenomenal love that radiated from every single one.

Thanks to everyone who participated in sharing their beloveds with all of us!

Finn

Enjoy !

Hi Spot Magazine staff,

Neptune

Neptune (top) sharing a seat with his brother Jasper.

I'd like to introduce my best friend and constant companion, Finn — aka Mr. Finn or Finnster. I found Finn, a stray, in 2013 at Multnomah County Animal Shelter. He was covered in fleas, had a terrible skin infection and severe hair loss from fleas and skin disease. I am a surgery tech at Cascade Veterinary Referral Center, and saw a post about Finn on CVRC's FB page.

I kept checking the shelter's website to see if he was still there — something about his sweet senior face drew me. I couldn't imagine a 12-year-old dog being stuck at the shelter and knew he was not likely to be adopted over the younger dogs. I visited him and it was all over. I was not leaving without him. I had no idea of his condition as the posts just showed a head shot. When I saw him the first time, I was shocked. He was underweight and his skin was terrible and malodorous. I feel so lucky I found him.

His skin was treated, and he began to gain weight.

Neptune was dumped in an anonymous overnight drop box at LA animal control. He was skinny, fearful, matted, and (worst of all for adoption) old — 12-13 was the guess. His two remaining teeth had to be removed. Years of neglect had taken its toll. The shelter's groomer estimated he had not been trimmed in years. A Maltese, possibly purebred, his hair grows all the time — he actually lost a pound or two after being shaved. He wasn't cute or young, and he would have been euthanized if My Way Home Dog Rescue in Sandy, OR hadn’t agreed to take him into foster care.

We have been through a lot in a short few years, good and bad. We've taken many trips to the beach where Finn's grandpa lives. Also a road trip to visit family in California, hiking, geocaching, and window shopping. Finn loves restaurants where he can join mom outdoors. He goes to work with me every day, and my life is planned so he can accompany me wherever I go.

Seeing him, you’d never know all that. He's perky and playful and pounces into laps for cuddle time. He loves to scamper with his adoptive brothers. Like many seniors in rescue, Neptune likely had people at one time, as he adapted quickly to home life. Unlike many younger dogs, he was housetrained and just needed to learn the new home rules and routine. As a senior, he's restful — he loves cuddling for naps and dozing outside in the sunshine, and he’s thankful for a little peace.

While we know we won't have him as long as we'd like, we are blessed to be able to give him a safe and secure time in his golden years. He is a joy — reminding us to appreciate the important things in life — a warm lap, a sunny day, and (of course!) treats.

— My Way Home Dog Rescue

Finn has been through a lot this past year, dealing with tumors and even a mini stroke. He's got a lot of spirit though, and continues to go on daily walks and weekly physical therapy to maintain his mobility and strength.

18 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

I've never had a dog so many people were drawn to — he’s been called magical. He’s a happy boy who loves everyone.

I cherish every day I have with this boy. Of course, I am a proud dog mom. Here are some of my favorite pictures, which I hope show that even though a dog is senior, they can still enjoy a lot of activities. We're so excited you're doing a frosted face edition because seniors are simply the best! I couldn't imagine him living out his final years in a shelter. We have shared so many great times and adventures.

— Angie Dutcher, Finn’s mom

Bo You may recognize Bo (short for Bocanacht, or Bocan) — he was Spot’s 2010 winning Cover Model! He stills loves walks, chasing the ball, and the beach.

He is now 12 years old.

Bo and I became a registered animal therapy team in 2012.

Oh my, the fun opportunities to meet new friends, especially at college stress relief visits! In 2014 we started volunteering with Signature Hospice. Once a week Bo and I visit a local facility. The staff greet him by name, and enjoy his visits as much as the patients.

Bo's appeal has no generational boundaries. Headed out from a recent patient visit, we stopped at a nurses’ station. Two VERY young-looking aides loved his attention, petting and hugging him, while he made his trademark squeaky joyful noises. One declared that he's way cuter than a baby. The other, "He's adorbs!”

Hank

— Ann Martin, Portland, OR

14-year-old HANK, aka ”The English Cream Doxie” (because his Grandma always wanted one), lives with 5 Doxies, Grandma Virginia, and Cousin Travis on their Cedar Flats AIR BNB spread, along with 24 chickens, 3 ducks, and neighbor horses, goats and rabbits. He looks forward to seeing his mom soon, who is coming to visit him from Lebanon (Middle East) this month.

— Virgina

Jake This my 11 year old Boxer, Jake. We adopted him at age 5. He is full of love and cuddles. He enjoys drinking from the hose, sitting in front of the fire, and going to grandma and grandpa's farm. This photo was taken on his 11th birthday, right before he got his big special birthday treat!

— Elizabeth OeDell www.spotmagazine.net | 19

My Old Girl Lily This sweetest face makes me cry every time I look at this picture. It took me years before I could replace it as the background on my phone. Lily was mama’s girl. She was perfect in every way that a dog can be perfect. She grew up with our kids, kept them safe when we weren’t home, cuddled, loved, belonged. We miss her.

— Ginger Rapport, Beaverton

Miss Beatrice!

We adopted Miss Bea about a year ago. Her previous family gave her up due to her age, which is their loss because she is the absolute best. Even at age 12, she can keep up with her five-year-old sister, romping on the beach or at the dog park. She loves going to doggie daycare and mixing it up with all the other pups.

She's also a big fan of sprawling on the couch and watching sports on TV. She says she could do without the cat that tries to sit on her face, but we think she secretly likes it. We are so lucky to have found her, and are hugely thankful to My Way Home Dog Rescue for bringing her up from a California shelter, taking good care of her, and then matching us up. We love her!

— Anna Joyce and Tami Parr

Chewie Chewie is a beautiful Tortie we got 15 years ago from SW WA Humane when she walked right up to us and begged to go home through the cage bars. She was ours! Later, she returned from her spay with the worst URI ever! I had to nurse her for almost 2 weeks while she recovered. She loves to cuddle in my arms like a baby, the way I had to hold her to force feed her. She lays in my arms and reaches a paw to tap my cheek or wrap around my neck while staring at my face. Her next favorite place is right over my shoulder, and when I worked from home, perched on the back of my chair with her front paws on my shoulder. Even now her favorite place is right next to me, with a paw on my arm or leg. Her favorite position to lie in is with her back leg tucked under her chin or wrapped in her front paws. She has some arthritis now, but that doesn't stop her from assuming odd and awesome sleeping positions!

When she was younger, she let us know she didn't have enough toys by catching garage mice and bringing them in the house to chase. That taught us!!!

Chewie would rather be an only kitty, but that has never been an option. Still, she doesn't take guff from the other 3 cats, and will even smack our German Shepherd around if he’s in her space. She totally has "Tortie 'Tude"! We call her our curmudgeon, but she is so full of love for me. She gazes into my eyes, then ducks her head and butts my face/arm/ leg/whatever she can reach. I can't make a move without her.

— Tena Abbey, Vancouver, WA

Harold I do intake for My Way Home Dog Rescue and I saw Harold was at San Bernardino Animal control. His body was so small from starvation that his head looked huge. My Way Home decided to help him. He came into my foster home, and fit right into our pack. While I loved him (and he came on my Birthday) I found him a home.

It was the home of an auto racer. Come to find out, our Harold got very nervous being alone when they went to work. He spent his time learning how to open the door to the race car room and, well, he marked everywhere.

When he came back I decided he really was meant for me and the rest is history. As with all separation anxiety, he has mellowed. He is a big goofball and loves our life, no matter what twists it takes!

— Cheryl Yoshioka

20 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

Annabelle This is my 8-year-old Golden, ANNABELLE. She is a sweet loving girl who just loves to be near her mommy (me)! She loves looking out the window watching birds, squirrels, and an occasional cat!

— Mary Lou Robison

KT KT is a 9-year-old Boxer/Lab mix (Boxador).

She’s been grey since age 2, but gets more so as she matures. KT loves to find squirrels (fuzzys). She loves to cuddle and go for hikes on Powell Butte. She loves going on the boat with her friends and run on the beach. She is big momma! We love her so much and can't imagine the day when she isn't here. If she is quiet for a few minutes I start freaking out — Where are you? What are you doing? Love this girl to pieces.

— Misty Wagne

Snickerdoodle,

The Love of My Life Snickerdoodle and I found each other in April of 2008. My 10+ year-old Black Labrador Max had just passed from cancer, and I was in search of my next best friend. When I came across Snickerdoodle at the Oregon Humane Society, he did not even look like a Labrador, he was so withdrawn and sad. He was 3 years old and his family had just surrendered him. They were moving and could not take him. As soon as he was let out of the cage, he became a happy boy and I knew he needed to come home with me.

Snickerdoodle is starting to slow down a bit, but he is still a happy-go-lucky dog. He still loves to play ball, go to the river and swim, and play with his cousins (my Sister lives next door and has 2 Shepherds). I know my time with this wonderful dog will be up sooner than I would like it to be, but that is just life. My job now is to keep him comfortable, watch over him, and just love him for however long we both have.

— Bobbie Bacoccini

Max

Riley Riley has been the best dog I’ve ever had. He’s been by my side whenever I needed him. He listens to me, he is my ‘support group' — he has my heart. He is now 11 years and 3 months old and I bless each day he is alive. <3. He is a Beauceron, if anyone was wondering :) I took these pictures at a park to spend time with him. He can't walk very far anymore so to parks and coffee shops we go.

— Shelli Rasmussen

Ch Appelgates Max A Million Bailey was born March 6, 2000 and departed to the rainbow bridge June 4 2015.

He began life as a show dog and quickly rose thru the show world to Westminster in NYC. Sadly reaching such heights of success would lead him to the depths of hell when he was sold as a stud dog to a lady who turned out to be a hoarder. Max became one of 98 dogs in an 1100 sq ft home where he had to fight for food, fresh air, etc. The officer who rescued him said it was one of the worst hoarding situations he’d ever seen and looked forward to seeing us each year at Doggie dash as he used Max as an example of a rescue success story. Debarked and down to 15 lbs, Max was nursed him back to health. Still, he had a lost look when he was brought into OHS. I got him a few months after he became healthy, shortly after losing my first Beagle, Sonny. The night I brought Max home he attacked my female Daisycher over food (even though they had met before). I wondered if he had too many issues to keep him, but I’m so glad I did. He earned Pet Partners Therapy Dog Certification so he could come to work with me as a Pediatric Occupational Therapist.

The kids would "do it for Max" when they wouldn’t for Miss Jayne! He was known as the real-life Snoopy as he was a rare all-white Beagle. He was such a lover and I know he is my guardian angel, waiting for me on the bridge.

— Jayne Bailey www.spotmagazine.net | 21

Michelle Blake • Spot Magazine

M

y husband has two old text messages he saves. Reading them can feel like that nagging sore on your lip that you keep biting, just to see if it hurts any less than the last time you bit it. But we refer back to them anyway, usually to launch another conversation about “our boys.” When we married two years ago, our big, blended family included Glenn’s 16-year-old Golden Retriever named Dylan and my 14-year-old three-legged black Lab/Shepherd mix, Levi. Even as Levi accompanied me down the aisle with our wedding rings carefully tied to his custom tuxedo shirt, we knew the early part of our marriage would be punctuated with goodbyes. Still, we celebrated and cherished moments and preserved memories. It is the bittersweet reality of life with elderly animals. We were prepared, as much as anyone truly can prepare.

The first keepsake text reads: “He is gone. He was peaceful.”

Dylan was a young dog when Glenn and his first wife divorced. They had shared custody ever since, which meant sharing decisions and expenses through Dylan’s two bouts of cancer, pancreatitis, and a complex surgery to repair a freakishly severe spiral fracture after he’d slipped on the kitchen floor.

They were practiced at painful discussions and wrenching, emotionally-fraught decisions. Their final negotiation was over Dylan’s last day. Just a week shy of his 17th birthday, they decided he’d have one more visit with me and Glenn followed by home euthanasia at Dylan’s other parents’ house. The simple two-line message perfectly expressed the excruciating mix of loss and peace.

Our share of Dylan’s ashes sat in an urn on the dresser for months, waiting for a day that felt just right to take them to his favorite beach. We also waited to feel ready to part with this last physical connection to the boy we called Silly Dyllie. That day came when Levi started having small seizures and we knew our time with him was drawing short too. At 15, he’d already lived years longer than doctors predicted when he lost a leg to aggressive bone cancer at age 10. We had long since stopped taking him to the beach as he struggled to run in the soft sand, but we gathered our resolve, Levi, a sling, and Dylan’s ashes for a day at the beach.

With help from the sling, Levi huffed and stumbled through the soft sand.

When we reached firm sand, he grabbed his ball and Chuck-It from my hand and pranced proudly – a favorite quirk we hadn’t seen in months. The mood bounced from playful to poignant as Glenn opened Dylan’s urn. Levi gave it a curious sniff and hopped behind Glenn, in a somber way that suggested he understood, as the wind carried Dylan’s ashes.

The beach outing breathed vigor into our fading friend, so several days later I had an unexpected midday break and impulsively lifted Levi into the car for another visit to the beach. This time, he jumped from the car before I could ready the sling and hopped across the beach while I tried to catch up.

As he rested near the surf, proudly grinning over his sand-covered tennis ball, I snapped a picture and texted it to Glenn: “Look where our boy is.” A week later, Levi was gone.

Our boys Levi and Dylan shared a family, a love of fetching, and an unhealthy obsession with all things edible. But they were very different from each other, and in dying, as in living, they needed different things from us. Navigating their dying processes, we were reminded of the many pieces that must come together. End-of-life decisions demand that we make excruciating choices, often with little warning, all while our best friends, our bank accounts, and our hearts hang in the balance.

22 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

Deciding Where With an old or ailing pet in your care, a careful conversation with your veterinarian can bring invaluable peace of mind. End-of-life policies vary by clinic. You want to know your options — in advance rather than during a crisis. In our case, we learned that Dylan’s veterinarian offered home euthanasia for established patients; Levi’s veterinarian does not. There are home euthanasia services with doctors who specialize in offering compassionate end-of-life service, but you’ll want to know in advance how to reach them, when they’re available, and what it will cost. You’ll also want to think about your pet’s temperament and preferences. If you have a choice of where they spend their last moments, think about how they like the vet’s office, the car, the yard. Are they happy to see visitors come into their home, or does that cause stress?

Ours were two very different boys. Dylan was a typical buttery-soft Golden Retriever. He was happy with almost anything, but definitely more comfortable at home or in the car than at the vet’s. Levi was high octane. Our favorite joke was, “He only has one speed: ON.” He was all about going: rides, walks, runs, errands, strangers’ houses — any adventure. Combined with our vets’ policies, it was clear that our golden boy would be euthanized at home on his own memory-foam bed, while Levi would take a ride around town that ended in his vet’s parking lot where his doctor, “Uncle Chris,” could give him final loves and treats in the backseat of the car.

These decisions — like all human and animal healthcare decisions — can also be influenced by cost and availability. For a large dog like Levi, home euthanasia and cremation would have cost a bit more than $500. An expense like this may be out of reach, especially on the heels of whatever medical care your pet has already had. While home euthanasia often feels like the most appealing choice, if cost is a factor, there are less expensive ways to create a peaceful, loving ending for your friend.

Deciding When Both of us had been faced with the kind of pet deaths that didn’t require decisions. Years before we met, my elderly black Lab Gabby died in my car en route to the emergency clinic in the middle of the night. Glenn’s German Shepherd Anna had to be euthanized in a doctor’s office during a medical emergency with a painful, untreatable condition, and his cat Beau had simply mysteriously died one day while he was away. These crises can happen, and then we simply do our best. When set in our laps rather than carried away by fate, the decisions are both a weighty burden and a sacred privilege.

The decision of timing can be the hardest. Levi’s vet said some people choose to euthanize old or ailing pets on a good day to avoid the inevitable bad days.

As much as I wasn’t willing to let my best buddy suffer, I also couldn’t take any good time away from him. If he had another game of fetch or even one more beach visit in him, I wouldn’t end his life before he had them. I also knew our high-octane guy wouldn’t be happy to stick around if he didn’t have his physical abilities. Sweet, snuggly Dylan was a bit different: when physical activity got harder for him, he was happy with snuggles, back rubs, and assisted potty breaks.

These individual characteristics were important, but we applied the quality of life standards we’d use for any of our cherished friends. There are templates available online that help you rate the overall quality of life, but we also watched

for whether our guys still had interest in their favorite things. If they could savor their food, get excited to go in the car, or luxuriate in a belly rub, we wanted them to continue experiencing those things for as long as it made sense.

A wise vet gave some life-changing advice almost 20 years ago when my precious rat, Mr. Go, was declining from cancer and age. I had gathered my courage and stuffed down the unbearable grief and made an appointment to have him euthanized, but I arrived at the clinic blabbering about my decision process, ticking off uncertainties and doubts. She stopped me. “It isn’t time.

When it’s time, you still don’t want to do it, but you’re at peace and ready to accept it. Go home. Give him some peanut butter, bananas, shoulder rubs. You might be back tomorrow, but it will feel different because you’ll be sure.” She was right. Mr. Go and I had another cherished two days. When it was time, my heart was heavy but my thoughts were clear.

Deciding How Dylan’s final day consisted of his favorite treats, which he didn’t eat, and a massage, which he savored. Levi’s final day included a visit from family, mounds of his favorite cookies, a visit to his favorite drive-through, and a car ride. While we sat in the car at the vet’s office, Levi devoured the ultimate forbidden treat for any dog who shares his home with cats: an entire container of the smelliest, grossest canned cat food, all to himself.

These final moments are surreal and excruciating and sacred. It is a time to listen to your gut and advocate for your beloved friend above all else. I asked Levi’s doctor to give him a sedative first, and when they had difficulty finding his vein during the final injection, I knew why my gut had told me to make that choice for him. Peace and comfort are priceless here. Follow your heart.

Like Dylan’s, Levi’s ashes have now spent a few months in an urn, waiting for a perfect beach day, waiting for us to be ready to watch the wind carry him away from us. That goodbye feels so final, so absolute. As solace, a dear friend

has commissioned an artist to make glass beads with a sprinkle of Levi’s ashes preserved inside. Glenn’s bead will hang with his keys, riding in his pocket next to his phone with the treasured text messages. I’ll hang my bead from a necklace, next to my heart.

Michelle Blake is a Salem, OR-based massage therapist and freelance writer whose work has appeared in national publications. Her husband wants you to know she's a REALLY crazy dog lady too..

Good to know

• Ute Luppertz of Pets Point of View, offers animal communication, a hospice care support group, and calming therapies. Petspointofview.vpweb.com • DoveLewis offers grief support, memorial workshops and more, mostly free of charge. DoveLewis.org.

• Photographer Kristin Zabawa’s SoulSessions Photography offers intimate photo sessions for pets nearing the end of life. Find her on Facebook.

• Compassionate Care offers home euthanasia in Oregon and SW Washington. Drlorigibson.com • http://www.dignifiedpetservices.com/page_10657.php.htm Dignified Pet Services offers memorial services, after-care from caskets to cremation, urns, and memorial jewelry. Dignifiedpetservices.com

Proud to host the annual Service of Remembrance Cremation & Memorials for your Companion

What the Heart has Once Known It Shall Never Forget We promise to take the best possible care of the companion you’ve lost and the people who have shared in that life.

On site: Family Gathering Room and Reflections Room, Memorials including photo and custom boxes, keepsake urns, personalized garden stones and plaques and heartfelt jewelry.

8976 SW Tualatin Sherwood Rd, Tualatin, OR 503.885.2211 • DignifiedPetServices.com www.spotmagazine.net | 23

Keep Your Old Dog In addition to acupuncture, another successful modality for seniors is hydrotherapy or pool time. “It is one of the best things we have found for our senior dogs,” says Cheryl Yoshioka, founder and president of My Way Home Dog Rescue, which finds homes for many senior pups. “It feels good, and it makes them more limber and helps with joint issues.”

Yoshioka adds that she hasn’t seen a single dog they’ve treated with hydrotherapy who didn’t love it. Hydrotherapy isn’t free, though, so only about half of the seniors in their care (those who need it most) are able to enjoy it.

Katie sporting booties on a hike on Tom, Dick, Harry Mountain on Mt. Hood

W

Vonnie Harris • Spot Magazine

e expect our dogs to be the same forever. Leaping joyfully and playing with utter glee, curious, bright-eyed and eager for anything.

Instead, their joints stiffen, their senses of sight and sound diminish, and they spend an increasing amount of time sleeping.

It may seem that older dogs are content to snooze the day away, and with our busy lifestyles, we're happy to let them. Walks become fewer, car rides infrequent, and entertaining playtimes go by the wayside.

Veterinary behaviorists identify this as the “shrinking world syndrome”.

Less enrichment means less mental and physical stimulation. As pet parents, we tend to change our behavior toward our aging pets, and oftentimes these changes take away many things that keep their minds and bodies youthful.

Tamara Smith of Portland takes Katie, her 14-year-old Lab/Basset Hound mix, on walks twice a day, with longer hiking adventures on weekends. Rescued 13+ years ago from Bonnie Hays Animal Shelter, Smith says, “Regular exercise has always been a priority.” She also credits glucosamine and fish oil supplements for Katie’s youthfulness.

“Bassets have a tendency to have bad backs, and she had some skin allergies, so I started giving her supplements when she was just 3 years old.” Katie also recently began acupuncture.

24 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

you CAN teach an old dog new tricks!

Many oldsters can’t walk as far or as fast as they used to, some due to underlying issues such as arthritis or heart problems, but they still benefit greatly from getting out and about. Small outings — such as a jaunt down the block in a stroller for smaller dogs or a cart for larger ones, a brief car ride, or a slow stroll with you to the mailbox — may not mean much to you, but can be huge for your old buddy who gets to sniff the grass, feel the warmth of the sun, and breathe fresh air.

“When dogs come into our rescue, we try and find out what they love,” Yoshioka says, adding that seniors depend a lot on their noses and love small walks in new places. They also love cuddle time, she says. “Just like with younger dogs, they want to be by their person and feel loved.”

Seniors enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy

And just like with humans, exercising the mind is equally important.

Happily, contrary to the old saying, you CAN teach an old dog new tricks!

Make it a goal to teach your grey-faced pal a new trick once a month. Make the training sessions short

Young at Heart and a positive experience. Tricks needn’t be complex — bark on cue, high-five, give a kiss, push a ball — it’s the learning that’s important.

And really, who cares if they never quite master the high-five? What matters is the quality time together and mental stimulation.

ment, taking care not to over-stimulate or include overly-rambunctious playmates, is ideal for enriching mental health. As with humans, if your four-legged best friend doesn’t stay active and involved in life, the desire to do so can fade.

Tricks needn’t be complex ... it’s the learning that’s important.

In some ways it may seem they age overnight. Because we see our dogs every day it’s easy to miss subtle changes. Barring medical issues, we can do so much just by adjusting the ways we connect with our pups to keep the spark bright in their wizened old eyes.

“Every dog delights in finding new things” says Yoshioka, pointing to Kongs, puzzle toys and treat-dispensing balls as great ways to get their noggins thinking and spice up their lives. Protect their aging choppers with softer versions of toys made just for seniors.

Also important is regular exposure to other pets and people.

Short sessions of socialization and playtime in a controlled environ-

Vonnie Harris is a freelance writer, and operator of Pet Stop Pit Stop pet sitting services in SW Washington. She resides in Vancouver with Jessie (a yellow Lab), Pedro & Lorali (parrots), three chickens, and memories of Jake, her heart dog who recently passed on. Vonnie is “the face of Spot” at many Portland-area pet-related events, and the voice of Spot in social media outlets.

Meow!

Let’s not forget the kitties when it comes to physical and mental activity. They may not pounce like they used to, but exercise is important to help prevent obesity and other issues. Create an enriched environment with items such as a cat tree for climbing, stretching and lounging. Or ever-popular among the kitty crowd — boxes! — entice most felines to play and investigate. Time outdoors in catios (cat patios) or walking on leash help keep seniors entertained and active, burning excess calories and keeping joints healthy.

Interactive toys and food puzzles and activities that spark kitty’s stalk and hunt drive are all gifts you can give your best friend. Studies show the most popular cat toys are those that involve human interaction … so get out and play! Always tailor toys and activities to fit your cat’s age, mobility and health factors.

Cats are social by nature, so be sure to continue to provide companionship and love through gentle petting, stroking and grooming.

www.spotmagazine.net | 25

Good Food for a Goo W

Vanessa Salvia • Spot Magazine

hat’s the difference between fresh and commercial dog food? Rick Woodford, aka The Dog Food Dude, is happy to tell you. “If you put kibble into a glass of water for two hours it turns into gunk,” he says. “But a carrot in a glass of water doesn’t do much. It needs the stomach to do something to it.”

Advocating dog food made from wholesome ingredients like carrots, yogurt, eggs, fish and blueberries has been Woodford’s work of heart for several years. He empowers people to feed their dogs healthy food, not when they’re old or sick, but NOW, when it can prevent disease. Still, Woodford has researched and developed numerous recipes for older or sick dogs of all sizes.

It all began when his best friend Jackson was diagnosed with lymphoma and stopped eating. Woodford prepared nutritionally-rich dog food for him. Jackson began eating again, and his health improved. But he also gained weight.

“I realized I didn’t know what I was doing,” Woodford says. So began an impassioned undertaking, researching and creating a database of dog food formulations and recipes. Originally Jackson was given nine months to live.

After 18 months of good food, however, the vet found his lymphoma was gone.

“The vet said, ‘Wow, I don’t know what did this, but you don’t need to bring him back,’” Woodford recalls. “I said, ‘I know what did it, it's the food.’”

Eventually people started asking for help with their own sick and aging dogs,

so Woodford started Dog Stew, a home delivery dog food company. He also began teaching the care and nurturing of dogs with healthy, homemade meals.

And his nickname, The Dog Food Dude? “When I would deliver food to peoples’ homes, the husbands, the children, would say, ‘Mom, the dog food dude’s here!’ Well all right, I thought; that’s what people are calling me, I guess I’ll go with it!”

Jackson lived for four years after his initial cancer diagnosis. He passed away from old age in 2011, cancer free. “Without exception, every dog who has had a serious illness did really well with my food,” Woodford says.

While the business was successful and rewarding, Woodford was unable to produce the volume necessary to successfully scale up. He opted to close the business and write the first of his two books, Feed Your Best Friend Better.

“When Jackson passed away I went into this big, horrible mourning period,” he says, “but I also decided I was going to write this book and give everybody the recipes for the food.”

Woodford’s mission with the book was getting the recipes into peoples’ hands. “But I wanted to make it even easier for some people, so I wrote a chapter called "Foods Worth Sharing," which includes 30 foods you can feed your dog off your cutting board.”

As dogs age, their metabolisms slow, and caloric requirements diminish, but they still need nutritionally-dense foods. “If you are feeding kibble and start cutting back on that, your dogs will likely be grumbling around hungry,” Woodford says. “That’s one reason why I like fresh foods . . . they slow digestion because they take more time to process so the dog feels fuller longer.”

When dogs eat commercial food at the same time day after day the body starts to remember what’s going on, he says. “It says, ‘Hey, another easy day. Let’s just keep producing the same stuff we did yesterday. The body adapts to what it needs to process every day and over time it forgets how to process some things.”

The Dog Food Dude • www.dogfooddude.com Two recipes from Chow are available here: http://lisaekus.com/titles/chow-simple-ways-to-share-the-foods-you-love-with-the-dogs-you-love Some of Rick Woodford’s favorite foods, with portion sizes:

Eggs

Canned Mackerel

Blueberries

Turmeric

High-quality protein, low in calories and filling. One large egg has about 71 calories, equivalent to about 1⁄5 cup of commercial dry food. Replace 10% of your dog’s regular meal with the following amounts: 10-lb. dog: 1/2 large egg 20-lb. dog: 2/3 large egg 40-lb. dog: 1 large egg 60-lb. dog: 1 1/2 large eggs 80-lb. dog: 2 large eggs 100-lb. dog: 2 1/2 large eggs

High-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation and keep the brain sharp. One cup of canned mackerel has about 300 calories, equivalent to about 3/4 cup of commercial dry food. Replace 10% of your dog’s regular meal with the following amounts: 10-lb. dog: 2 tablespoons 20-lb. dog: 3 tablespoons 40-lb. dog: 1/4 cup 60-lb. dog: 1/3 cup 80-lb. dog: 1/2 cup 100-lb dog: 1/2 cup

High in antioxidants that prevent cognitive decline.

One tablespoon of fresh or frozen blueberries has 5 calories; equivalent to just a few pieces of commercial dry food.

10-lb. dog: 1 1/2 tsps.

20-lb. dog: 2 tsps.

40-lb. dog: 1 tblsp.

60-lb. dog: 1 1/2 tsps.

80-lb. dog: 2 tblsps.

100-lb. dog: 3 tblsps.

Potent cancer fighter and anti-inflammatory, antiallergy; helps to prevent cataracts, helps with weight management 10-lb. dog: 1/8 tsp.

20-lb. dog: 1/4 tsp.

40-lb. dog: 1/4 tsp.

60-lb. dog: 1/2 tsp.

80-lb. dog: 1/2 tsp.

100-lb. dog: 3/4 tsp.

26 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

od Long Life That’s why some have experienced a “disaster” when giving their dogs fresh food for the first time. When you’re ready to start feeding fresh foods, take it slow. Woodford recommends “teaspoons and tablespoons” not “cups and handfuls.” “Diversity, diversity, diversity,” he says, “but start out slowly with the diversity.”

Sardines and tomato sauce, canned mackerel or salmon and scrambled eggs are some of Woodford’s favorite whole foods for dogs. “Scrambled egg is a favorite because it’s the most bio-available protein there is and dogs eat it so incredibly easily. It’s also so easy to make in a frying pan,” he smiles.

Omega-3s are important for older dogs, to help prevent inflammation and arthritis. “Use a nice oily fish — tuna’s not so good,” Woodford says. “Or give them a fish oil pill, which I like to call dog jelly beans.”

Woodford’s second book, Chow, is even more accessible than Feed Your Best Friend Better, he says. “I say, these are the things you’re using in your food; here’s how you can use similar things to make a simple meal or a supplement for your dog.”

Woodford’s latest project is still under wraps. While he’s bound to silence for now, his excitement is clear. He did extend this little clue: that he will “be present in more peoples' kitchens, hopefully helping both them and their dogs.”

Rick Woodford and Raleigh Woodford knows every dog is going to die, and no matter what, every dog will die too soon. “But,” he says, “my goal is to get people to start feeding their dogs better foods early in their life to prevent disease, to give you two years, four years more, with your best friend.”

Vanessa Salvia’s love for animals began as a child, when stray kittens just seemed to follow her home. She now lives on a sheep farm outside of Eugene, Oregon, with a llama named Linda, a dog, a cat, two horses, a rabbit, two kids and a patient husband.

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Blindness Doesn’t Keep a Good Dog Down Camilla Mortensen • Spot Magazine

W

hen my Dachshund mix Smudge went blind, it caught me by surprise. She was getting older — around 11 — when she began smashing into walls. With typical wiener-dog hubris she would just keep smashing into walls, assuming they would at some point give way to 21 pounds of determined dog.

Thinking she’d had a stroke, I took her to the vet, and then an eye specialist to discover that in addition to mild cataracts, Smudge had macular degeneration. It was inoperable.

It had come on gradually, and Smudge had apparently adapted under my nose. She was going up and down stairs a little slower, but I had attributed that to age. Suddenly it made sense that Smudge, a dog who typically tolerated all kinds of obnoxiousness from people, had bitten a neighbor kid who had rushed up and hugged her — she never saw the kid coming.

Signs that your dog is going blind include not only noticing eyes going cloudy, but bumping into walls, being easily startled, and appearing confused and reluctant to move, according to the ASPCA.

Smudge and Camilla as the Blues Brothers in a Eugene celebration parade.

She walked the whole parade route blind.

When I told people Smudge’s diagnosis, several suggested I put her down, assuming either that I wouldn’t want to deal with her blindness, or that she was somehow too miserable to live. Neither was true. I just had to make some changes to help Smudge adapt (and ensure she didn’t bite again).

28 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

Amy Linder, a deputy fire marshal in Lane County with two highly-trained Dalmatians, got the same diagnosis of full blindness when she rushed the Fire Code Inspector (aka Cody) to the vet earlier this year. Cody had lost vision in one eye from glaucoma last year. This was on top of earlier spinal surgeries that had curtailed his career teaching kids about fire safety and serving in the Oregon Fire Service Honor Guard, honoring fallen firefighters and supporting their loved ones.

Smudge

One morning this August, Linder says Cody awoke able to see, but within an hour had gone blind. She assumed this was also due to glaucoma, but after seeing the vet and getting a neural workup, she discovered the 11-year-old dog’s blindness was due to either a tumor or perhaps stroke. It wasn’t curable, so Linder said the conversation came to be about “How do we help him adjust?” Knowing that in addition to blindness the condition could signal that Cody was nearing the day he crossed the rainbow bridge, Linder says, “It was an emotional couple of weeks.”

I discovered the importance of scent-marking things like doorways or stairs to keep Smudge safe Linder, who had previously trained a deaf dog, began to research how best to help Cody adjust. Like me with Smudge, people warned her the blindness would be harder on her than the dog.

Speaking of Facebook, the Internet is full of inspiring videos of blind animals being helped by friends. In my case, my other two dogs were perplexed by Smudge’s blindness. Rhoda, my Pit mix, would stay out of her way. Smudge’s failure to observe cues like play bows or a curled lip upset my Rhodesian Ridgeback, Zella, so I had to keep them supervised or separated.

Linder solved the problem of her younger dog Casey bounding into his big brother with a bell so Cody can hear him coming.

Most blind dogs, like Smudge, lose vision due to things like glaucoma, diabetes, untreated eye infections or conditions that mean the dog can still live a long, happy life if his owner helps him adjust While she has come to terms that Cody’s blindness is linked to a condition that will ultimately end his life, possibly soon, most blind dogs, like Smudge, lose vision due to things like glaucoma, diabetes, untreated eye infections or conditions that mean the dog can still live a long, happy life if his owner helps him adjust.

Smudge lived blind for four or five years, and remained the fierce, happy mixed-breed wiener dog she’d always been. I got her a pair of pink Doggles glasses to protect her eyes, and continued to take her hiking and on walks. To this day, one of my favorite memories is of watching my little black dog trotting down the beach on the Oregon Coast, totally blind and totally happy on the broad, clear swatch of sand.

Cody In my own research, I discovered the importance of scent-marking things like doorways or stairs to keep Smudge safe. I also taught her to follow the sound of my jingling keys on walks, allowing her to walk on a loose leash safely. Linder consulted a friend with a masters degree in working with visually-impaired humans who is a dog trainer as well.

She also recommends a book called Living With Blind Dogs by Caroline Levin, which she found at the library.

These tools in hand, Linder began to help Cody live in his new world. She purchased felt stickers used to keep furniture from scratching floors, and dabbed essential oils on them to scent-mark major obstacles. She used a calming scent for the “home bases” of his kennel and his bed, where he could go to reorient himself. She says she taught Cody new verbal cues such as right, left, steps etc. She also bought pool noodles to protect him from sharp edges on furniture.

Because of his spinal issues, Cody doesn’t deal well with slick surfaces, and that brings up the innovation Linder uses, which I wish I had thought of for Smudge before she died at the ripe old age of 15: textures. Cody’s feet tell him where he is. Linder put floor runners on slick floors to give him a path through the house; he also knows when he’s on grass or his Astroturf potty area.

Linder says searching Facebook groups that support people with blind dogs has been helpful. Type “blind dogs” into your Facebook search bar to find them.

Camilla Mortensen is associate editor at Eugene Weekly. She is also a folklorist and a community college writing instructor. She has two horses, Flash and Cairo; two cats named Woodward and Bernstein an assortment of dogs —Rhoda, Zella and Biggie Smalls, and lives in a 1975 Airstream trailer.

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,

It s a Fact . . . with Age Treatments are abundant and improving Michelle Blake • Spot Magazine

I

t can happen to anyone. Whether caused by genetics, lifestyle, excess weight, or a no-pain-no-gain approach to sports and play, many middle-aged and elderly humans and animals develop some arthritis. The condition, osteoarthritis, is a wear-and-tear condition. It happens when the soft, lubricating cartilage that protects and cushions the joints wears down.

The resulting increased friction causes inflammation and pain.

As common as it is, it’s nothing to dismiss. Arthritis can become debilitating, drastically decreasing quality of life or shortening a pet’s life.

There is a silver lining, though: treatment options abound. Early treatment is key, so when an animal friend is limping, stiff, painful, or less willing to do daily activities like playing, climbing stairs, or grooming, it’s time to visit the veterinarian. Your biggest challenge may be choosing from the many options, but here’s a summary to discuss with your vet.

Lifestyle Changes All arthritis patients benefit from weight management coupled with moderate low-impact exercise. While weight management can be a bit more challenging for older, more sedentary pets, keeping extra pounds to a minimum lightens the demands on painful joints.

Exercise helps control both weight and arthritis pain, but doctors with the American Veterinary The author, left, comforts her dog Levi, Medical Association warn that either too age 13, as he tries out a wheelchair little or too much exercise can increase pain. With some time and attention, you’ll likely learn the right types and amounts of exercise for your arthritic friend, and can couple that with home massages, supportive bedding, and mats or rugs to make hard or slippery floors more paw-friendly.

Food and Supplements As with the many contradictory theories about the best diets and healthiest foods for humans, any research about proper pet nutrition and supplements can lead you down a rabbit hole of confusion. Always ask your veterinarian. Few doctors recommend supplements as the sole treatment for arthritis pain, but many see them as a helpful part of a treatment regimen. Some, like Chicago-based Dr. Donna Solomon, wholeheartedly recommend glucosamine, chondroitin and omega 3 oils as a complement to anti-inflammatory drugs, pain medication, and acupuncture or physical therapy. Bear in mind that nutritional supplements are largely unregulated and vary in quality and effectiveness. For this reason, doctors often recommend veterinary-specific supplements with dosage and formulas geared to your pets. One chondroitin supplement called Dasuquin comes in a tasty

30 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

chewable for dogs and a break-apart capsule for cats.

Levi receives laser therapy at OSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital

There are veterinary diets formulated with supplements to support joint health, although, as always, it’s best to talk to your veterinarian about the best options. And while vegetarian diets are difficult and controversial for cats, they help many arthritic or arthritis-prone dogs.

Meat-free diets show some promise in relieving inflammatory conditions, but making home diets that are nutritionally sound for dogs can require research and vigilance. Some commercially available formulas by Natural Balance and other manufacturers take away the guesswork.

Anti-inflammatories These widely-available drugs often are the first recommendation of veterinarians. There are several non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs available and approved for dogs, cats, and other species. Some even come in tasty chewable or liquid form. With all NSAIDS, there are possible side effects and health considerations with long-term use, so your doctor will likely want to do an initial blood test and re-check every six to 12 months.

Pain Medications Veterinarians are increasingly willing to prescribe pain medication as attitudes and treatment options continue to evolve in the pain management field. Drugs like Tramadol and Gabapentin are widely available and fairly affordable in pill form. Another common pain med, buprenorphine, comes in liquid or injectable form for notoriously hard-to-medicate cats.

Pain-management views vary by veterinarian, and might not be necessary for milder conditions that are well managed with other therapies. However, don’t hesitate to advocate for your arthritic fur kid if their pain level seems to warrant medication. As Dr. Solomon writes, withholding pain medication when it’s needed is “antiquated and non-compassionate.”

Specialty Clinics Rehabilitation services available for pets now rival the care available in any human physical therapy clinic. From therapy pools to underwater treadmills, laser therapy, neurological re-education, and ultrasound therapy, these clinics can customize a treatment plan for your buddy’s condition and ability. The veterinary teaching hospital at Oregon State University in Corvallis has a state-of-the-art rehabilitation facility for large and small animals. A referral from your veterinarian is required, but visiting with the specialists there will expose you to multiple options.

Comes Creaky Joints Alternative Therapies Therapies once considered alternative are fast becoming mainstream, as growing numbers of local clinics offer Traditional Chinese Medicine modalities such as acupuncture and herbal medicine. Local clinics, such as Whole Pet Veterinary in Salem, increasingly blend Eastern and Western treatments.

At Whole Pet, Dr. Julie DeMarco says acupuncture can dramatically increase quality of life in arthritic pets, and Chinese herbal treatments sometimes cure conditions that Western medicine cannot. It’s also increasingly easy to find non-veterinary practitioners who offer massage therapy that may soothe aching joints and increase flexibility.

Emerging Therapies Among the growing field of proven arthritis treatments, there are more promising ones on the horizon. Stem-cell therapy is a prime example. An extensive article in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association says, “The anecdotal evidence for stem cells as a therapy is compelling, but research is still under way.” Even while research is ongoing, numerous doctors across the country — including Oregon and Washington — are already relying on this treatment for animals who don’t tolerate anti-inflammatory medications or whose conditions haven’t responded well to other treatments. It’s a more costly and complex procedure than most, because doctors

Levi learns must collect blood, to use the fat, or bone marrow underwater from the patient, treadmill send it to a lab where at OSU stem cells are grown Veterinary and harvested from Teaching the sample, and then Hospital inject those stem cells back into the animal.

Many doctors and clients report impressive improvements in patients who are able to regrow deteriorating hooves or regenerate joint cartilage in previously painful joints.

The procedure can cost $2,000-$3,000.

Michelle Blake is a Salem, OR-based massage therapist and freelance writer whose work has appeared in national publications. Her husband wants you to know she's a REALLY crazy dog lady too..

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All About Tha The importance of d Amy Schneider • Spot Magazine

A

s a dog owner since the early ‘90s, Linda Romppel of Washington knows a thing or two about caring for senior pets. Still, she says, dental care is one of the most challenging hygiene procedures to make routine. Romppel raises Golden Retrievers, and while the worst dental challenge she’s faced with her 15-year-old Golden is a cracked tooth, she says it’s consistent care that ensures lifelong healthy teeth.

“It’s really easy to walk and feed them every day, but dental care is one thing that’s really hard to maintain as a habit,” adding, “At the same time, it’s really important.”

Few pet parents enjoy sticking their fingers in their pets’ mouths, scrubbing away at plaque while hot doggy breath smacks them in the face. And good luck getting a glimpse of kittty’s pearly whites before she darts for cover.

According to Kevin Stepaniuk DVM, veterinary dentist with Columbia River Veterinary Specialists in Vancouver, it takes a lifetime of good dental hygiene habits to support a pet’s tooth health into the geriatric years. This includes regular brushing (with pet toothpaste) and annual cleanings by a vet. The American Animal Hospital Association says that close to two-thirds of pet owners do not provide vet-recommended dental care.

“The gold standard of care is a dog or cat’s first dental cleaning being in the first one to two years of life,” Stepaniuk says. “Whether you’re a dog or a human, you should be brushing teeth daily to remove the plaque biofilm that causes periodontal disease.”

The nasty film of bacteria that builds up on teeth, if never removed through brushing and cleaning, can slip beneath the gum-line and cause all kinds of trouble, Stepaniuk says. Painful, abscessed teeth can necessitate extraction.

Along with fractured teeth, periodontal disease is one of the most common dental ailments seen among older dogs.

Senior cats are also susceptible to periodontal disease, as well as a condition called feline tooth resorption, in which tooth cells turn against the tooth.

“They’re progressive, painful processes where teeth are being rejected from the mouth and require extraction,” says Courtney Anders DVM, owner of Pearl Animal Hospital in Portland. The disease can present as teeth that appear broken or to have small red holes that indicate the nerve is exposed.

32 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

at Brush ental care Anders says tooth care with cats can be tricky. While dogs have a range of options to promote healthy teeth, including dental chews, cats can be less than cooperative for brushing.

With older pets, Stepaniuk says he often hears concerns from clients about anesthesia. “Age is not an exclusionary factor for doing general anesthesia,” he says. “It can be done safely with monitoring.”

“Cats are a species that don’t want to be messed with,” Anders says.

She recommends using gauze to gently scrub a cat’s teeth, but adds, “cats hold grudges. If your cat is running from you, it’s not worth ruining the relationship.”

Anders adds that she sees more problems related to bad teeth with clients who are afraid their pet is too old for anesthesia. “What we use is really safe,” she says. “Age isn’t a reason not to pursue dental health.”

For both cats and dogs, Anders suggests feeding a dental-friendly food. Royal Canin, for example, offers a formula that prevents the accumulation of plaque.

“Whether you’re a dog or a human, you should be brushing teeth daily to remove the plaque biofilm that causes periodontal disease.”

— Kevin Stepaniuk “The more proactive you can be at home, the less frequently you’ll need to have procedures done, and that can be a huge cost savings over the pet’s life,” says Anders. “A healthier mouth means a healthier animal.”

Stepaniuk says he’s seen elderly dogs and cats act years younger after having dental pain corrected by removing infected teeth. Clients will say their dogs used to jump and flip, and once diseased teeth are gone, they become playful again.

“You can have a whole new dog or cat after tooth extraction,” Anders agrees. “There can be a huge improvement in personality.”

Both Anders and Stepaniuk stress the importance of yearly dental cleanings for senior pets, since periodontal disease or broken teeth are not always obvious. Anders says this involves a full-day procedure in which pets are examined under anesthesia. Vets take full X-rays to see what’s going on under the gum-line and then carefully examine, clean and polish each tooth.

Yearly cleanings are important, Stepaniuk says, because pets often don’t exhibit symptoms until dental disease is fairly severe.

“They hide disease very well,” he says. “You might see pawing at the face or reluctance to chew, but with dental problems, unless you’re very astute looking at root exposure, some of the clinical signs are not at all obvious.”

With newly-adopted older dogs or cats, Anders suggests getting a dental exam before starting cleaning routines to rule out pre-existing issues.

Romppel says that every time she takes her elderly Goldens to the vet, she has their teeth looked at. Ultimately, she says, it comes down to routine care and cleaning.

Amy Schneider is a writer based in

Eugene, Oregon, who lives with a dog, a fish, a wonderful partner and an assortment of plants, in no particular order.

Learn more American Animal Hospital Association Guidelines for Care aaha.org/pet_owner/about_aaha/why_accreditation_matters/ guidelines_position_statements/aaha_dental_care_ guidelines_for_dogs_and_cats.aspx ColumbiaRiverVetSpecialists.com PearlAnimalHospital.com

www.spotmagazine.net | 33

Still Lucy Recognizing dementia in your pet — and how to deal with it Michele Coppola • Spot Magazine

I

t's 4:30 am and my 15-year-old Maltese mix Lucy is barking incessantly. I stumble out of bed to find out what's wrong. There she is: lost in the jungle of the dining room table and chairs, which have been in the same place for five years. She repeatedly bumps into the furniture legs like a furry pinball, unable to find her way out.

Soon after, I speak with Dr. Christine Fletcher, a senior dog specialist and associate at North Portland Veterinary Hospital. She says Lucy's problems are fairly typical for dogs with cognitive dysfunction — aka senile dementia. "Many of these dogs get lost and confused really easily," Fletcher says. "And they will start to bark a lot, because they don't know what else to do. This can be a distress behavior for them."

Lucy is not alone in her distress: in a recent study of 180 dogs age 11-16 years, 28% of those 11-12 had at least one sign of cognitive dysfunction, while 68% of those 15-16 had at least one symptom of the condition. For cats, more than half of those 15 or older were found to exhibit at least one symptom as well.

Mental decline in pets is becoming more prevalent, but it's for a happy reason: they’re receiving better care, so they're living longer and are therefore more prone to many of the same age-related conditions seen in humans.

People are also simply more aware. "When I was growing up we had a dog that lived until she was 17, and looking back she clearly had dementia, but we didn't know what it was," Dr. Fletcher remembers.

"She lost her housebreaking, she was always wandering. Our vet didn't have a name for it. Now we actually have criteria we can apply."

34 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

Doing the DISHA Dr. Dan Krull is a board-certified Veterinary Neurologist at Columbia River Veterinary Specialists in Vancouver, WA. He feels that increasing education of those criteria among both pet parents and animal care professionals is key as more pets live longer.

"There are still many veterinarians I speak to who aren't entirely aware of some of the symptoms that come along with this condition," he says, adding that the simple acronym — DISHA —can be used to describe the signs of cognitive decline.

"If you have a pet exhibiting a lot of these signs — the DISHA — it's really important for a veterinarian to do a full, thorough neurologic exam"

— Dan Krull

"D" is for disorientation. In addition to seeming out of sorts, pets can become confused in familiar surroundings. "Wandering, getting lost in the house — this is something to keep an eye on," Fletcher advises.

That said, older pets are prone to physical conditions like sight and hearing loss, which can also lead to disorientation, so it's important to rule those out first.

"I" is for interactions. Is your pet suddenly more subdued or aggressive, or even more loving or needy? Fletcher says the latter happened with her own 14-year-old dog.

"One thing we started noticing is that this dog who was never super affectionate — she liked people fine, but was definitely not cuddly — is now coming up and soliciting petting."

"S" stands for sleep. According to Krull, changes in a pet's Dr. Christine Fletcher sleep cycle often signal that something isn't right. "The pet is pacing or vocalizing; or 'my cat's walking around; he's louder than usual and won't let me sleep'. That's a common thing for owners to complain about."

"H" is for house soiling — urinating or even defecating in places they never have before. "We really try to distinguish this from urinary incontinence, which is much more common," says Fletcher. "That's where the animal is not aware that they're urinating, which is a medical issue, versus a dog that is just walking through the house and then squats or lifts his leg to pee, which can be cognitive dysfunction. We have to talk about what exactly the dog is doing."

Dr. Daniel Krull

"A" refers to both activity and anxiety. According to Dr. Krull, dogs usually have increased activity with cognitive dysfunction, especially at times when they previously were less active — like at night.

Anxiety can also cause nervous pacing, or a personality change owners notice.

It is also urgent that pet parents don't just assume what they're seeing is the onset of age-related mental decline. "If you have a pet exhibiting a lot of these signs — the DISHA — it's really important for a veterinarian to do a full, thorough neurologic exam," cautions Dr. Krull. That's because if there are other symptoms present, like weakness, decreased sensation, or loss of vision on one side, it could be indicative of a brain tumor or other physical issues, and not cognitive dysfunction.

Does My Pet Have Age-Related Dementia?

While there is no cure for senile dementia in pets, watching for signs in your senior pet can mean an earlier diagnosis, and possibly better adjustment.

Possible symptoms — DISHA D — Disorientation: wandering, seeming out-of-sorts.

I — interactions. Depression, fear, excessive neediness, or sudden uncharacteristic extreme affection/friendliness.

S — Sleep. Night pacing or vocalizing. Can signal dementia, pain, anxiety, or illness.

H — House soiling. More often physical than cognitive; see your vet.

A — Activity and Anxiety. Newly active at night, wandering in circles, restless pacing, fear of previously familiar places and situations.

DISHA applies to both canines and felines, but symptoms are often more subtle in cats. That's because not only do we interact with cats differently than dogs, but also because cats are expert at hiding weakness, making problems more difficult to spot.

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Wait to Redecorate While there is no cure for cognitive dysfunction, owners can maintain their companion's quality of life, and possibly even slow the disease's progression.

• • • • • • • • •

"The one area over which pet owners have the most control is environmental modification and enrichment," says Krull. "Stimulating these pets mentally, continuing with training, exercise, introducing novel toys. Try anything that keeps them active, involved and alert."

Physical and mental activity can also help with sleep issues.

Maintaining a consistent physical environment and a regular schedule is also a priority, according to Krull. "One of the worst things for these patients is changes in who or what is in the household."

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According to Dr. Krull, what's happening to Lucy is likely similar to what happens to humans diagnosed with Alzheimer's.

Lucy enjoying a boat ride on Lake Merwin Fletcher adds that it's also a good idea to check your home for hazards to help keep a symptomatic cat or dog safe. "Make sure the pet is not going to fall down stairs or get stuck somewhere. Use scents as cues — smell seems to hang on longer than many of the other senses. For stairs, putting a dab of scent in the middle of each tread is an idea."

Maintaining a consistent physical environment and a regular schedule is a priority Drug therapy is another tool pet parents may want to consider when cognitive symptoms and related stress become severe. Lucy is on a lowdose pain pill to help her sleep through the night. Xanax — given to the pet, not the owner — is often used to alleviate dementia-related anxiety.

Finally, while no conclusive evidence exists to suggest that nutrition or supplements can either prevent cognitive dysfunction or improve its symptoms, a diet rich in antioxidants and Omega-3s has been shown in some studies to be beneficial.

Here and Gone On my desk there's a picture of Lucy that never fails to make me smile: she's perched on the edge of a moving fishing boat, gazing over Lake Merwin like it's her personal kingdom. A few minutes after that shot was taken, she scared the expletives out of us when she decided to jump into the water for a swim.

Eight years later, that same brave, impulsive little dog has trouble finding her water bowl and howls at the walls.

36 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

"There's what we call atrophy of the surrounding brain as dogs and cats age.

Amaloid beta proteins — plaques — are absolutely found in Alzheimer's patients, and while it's not quite the same, we do feel that the more [of them] there are in the brains of dogs and cats, usually the more cognitively affected they are."

This condition can shorten a pet's life, though not for a physiological reason. Often a physically sound animal passes because their quality of life has declined to a point that the owner chooses to humanely euthanize the cat or dog.

According to both doctors Krull and Fletcher, it's an excruciating decision.

"Often it's easier if the animal has cancer or kidney failure [because] there are definite signs to look for," says Fletcher. "With cognitive dysfunction, it's hard because these animals are eating great, drinking, their bodies are going along pretty well. So one of the things I'll talk to people about is if this animal is still able to do any of its usual routine.

How much of that animal is still there?"

Krull agrees. "There's so much gray area," he says. "I usually try to tell owners to think of four or five things their dog or cat loves to do. If they start to not do those things anymore, and you're crossing things off the list and you get down to that fourth or fifth thing, for some people, that's it."

Hearing this lifts my heart a little, because in addition to belly rubs, Lucy still very much enjoys a meander down the street. Yes, she tends to wrap her leash around trees and often finds a scent she likes so much she refuses to budge. But that's ok. All of a sudden I'm starting to appreciate the fact that she's still as stubborn as the day I adopted her.

Michele Coppola is a veteran Portland radio personality, copywriter and freelance writer who shares couch space with her three rescue pooches Lucy, Bailey, and Ginny, as well as Bryon, the stray man she married six years ago.

Super Seniors

The benefits of training your elderly dog Jennifer Biglan • Spot Magazine

W

e’ve all heard the saying “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” but nothing could be further from the truth. We may need to modify some of our tricks, and stop asking a dog with bad hips to sit, but any dog at any age is ready (and happy!) to learn. Training your senior dog will enrich his/her life, provide much-needed mental exercise, and help keep them mentally sharp.

Transferring verbal cues (that your senior may no longer be able to hear) to hand or touch signals is a great way to get started. Even though your dog may have stopped being able to hear the verbal cues you are using, they still know how to do them, and it will only take a few short training sessions to teach them to respond to a new cue.

Transfer a cue

Kyla

To transfer an old cue to a new cue, practice the cues in pairs. Count out about 10 small (pea-sized) soft training treats. Show your dog your new cue (a hand signal or touch to their body) then give the old cue (if your dog can still hear a little). Praise and treat when they get it right, then repeat nine more times. If your dog can’t hear at all you will need to help them with luring.

Hand Target My favorite cue to teach senior dogs is to target and follow my hand with their nose. Hand targeting can be useful for teaching your senior to come, move when you need them to move, stand, and a lot of other fun and useful tricks!

When my senior Kyla started losing her hearing I transferred her verbal cue “Come” to a hand target. Now when I need her to come close I hold my hand out with my palm facing her and she “runs” over

to touch her nose to my hand. To teach this cue, count out 10 soft pea-sized treats, put your empty hand with your palm facing your dog about 2 inches away from your dog’s nose, then, when s/he touches your palm with his or her nose, praise and give a treat.

While working on new cues, keep in mind your dogs’ physical limitations.

I stopped asking Kyla to sit several years ago as she is arthritic and has hip problems. We now work on stand (which is pretty easy because she stands all the time), come, and nose targeting.

Teaching your old dog new tricks is good for him or her and you in many ways. For one, continuing to learn help keeps the mind healthy. It also provides you and your companion with a “language” you can both use and understand, keeping you connected and making life easier for you both. And of course, as always, training/learning activities never stop nurturing the bond between you and your best friend.

Jennifer Biglan, owner of Training Spot in Eugene, OR, is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner in Eugene, OR. She knew she wanted to work with animals at a young age. After graduating from the U of O and volunteering at a dog shelter, she found her calling. Jennifer is well known through the community, and by many area veterinarians for her work in solving behavior problems, and she has extensive knowledge and background training dogs. Learn more about Training Spot at trainingspot.us or e-mail info@trainingspot.us. www.spotmagazine.net | 37

Living on a Fixed Income ... with senior pets I

Blaine Holland • Spot Magazine

t isn’t news that money is tight for much of the population. Senior citizens — and those on a fixed or low income — struggle to keep up with routine living expenses. Providing basic necessities, even food, can stretch the budget. When pet owners struggle to pay their own medical costs, pets often don’t receive routine veterinary care and it’s easy to understand why emergency vet care is considered out of reach. Viewed as the only alternative to watching a beloved pet suffer, relinquishing ownership to a shelter, as hard as it is, sometimes seems the best, most loving thing to do. One can hope the pet can be treated, saved and ultimately adopted by someone with the resources to provide proper care for the animal’s remaining days.

Help is available for qualifying people not only for emergency care, but for many pet needs

about paying for possible future emergency care. Many clinics offer senior discounts. Some have funds, often donated, to help pet owners in need, notably, the Velvet Assistance Fund at DoveLewis Animal Hospital in Portland, and many other similar programs.

An online search for “veterinary care assistance” turned up many rays of financial hope. Narrow your search by including your city. You’ll see a large number of organizations with financial assistance programs, from national organizations like the Humane Society of the United States to local clinics.

Of course not everyone has a computer. If you know someone on a limited budget with a pet but no access to the Internet, offer to help.

Don’t wait until your pet needs emergency care. Virtually all assistance programs require an application, including proof of income.

Some require that your pet’s veterinarian send an application. Find programs for which you qualify, just in case. Be an advocate for your pet by being ready for whatever may come.

It doesn’t have to be this way. Help is available for qualifying people not only for emergency care, but for many pet needs. With a bit of research, you can find food, spay/neuter programs, medication, even grooming. Veterinary professionals and others who want to help keep people and pets together work to make that happen.

The best place to start is with the veterinarian who’s seen your pet. Who else knows your pet better? Have a frank talk with him/her

Blaine Holland lives with her husband, Jack Shupe, in Troutdale with 1 dog and four cats. She says at MCAS she found what she was meant to do: join the dedicated people working to save animals, and write about it.

Good to Know 38 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

Animal Emergency Care Fund animalemergencycarefund.org

Friends Involved in Dog Outreach (F.I.D.O.) https://sites.google.com/site/fidoanimeals

Banfield Pet Hospital banfieldcharitabletrust.org

The Humane Society of the United States www.humanesociety.org

Cat Adoption Team catadoptionteam.org

The Pongo Fund Pet Food Bank thepongofund.org

DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital dovelewis.org/community-services/ velvet-assistance-fund

Portland Animal Welfare pawteam.org Powell Veterinary Center Guardian Angel Fund powellvet.com

[How Old is Your Dog?] I n the 1970s, dogs generally lived 7-8 years. Now dogs often live to 10-15,

and even older. (Source: American Veterinary Hospital Association).

Like people, dogs are individual in the way they age. Certain breeds, mixed breeds, and, in general smaller dogs, tend to live longer. A dog less than 20 pounds might not seem to show signs of age until she is 12 or so.

A 50-pound dog will show signs around 10, and larger dogs begin to show age at 8 or 9.

Using established guidelines to determine when your dog might qualify as a senior can help you understand changes in behavior or anticipate potential changes in health. This knowledge can help equip you to identify and approach health problems early, when they may be more easily treated. The following table shows the relationship between a dog's age and a human's. Note that the weight of the dog is related to his age in human years:

A Dog's Age in Human Years Age

Up to 20 lbs

21-50 lbs

51-90 lbs

Over 90 lbs

5

36

37

40

42

6

40

42

45

49

7

44

47

50

56

8

48

51

55

64

9

52

56

61

71

10

56

60

66

78

11

60

65

72

86

12

64

69

77

93

13

68

74

82

101

14

72

78

88

108

15

76

83

93

115

16

80

87

99

123

17

84

92

104

18

88

96

109

19

92

101

115

20

96

105

120

Red = senior Blue = geriatric

Chart developed by Dr. Fred L. Metzger, DVM, State College, PA. Courtesy of Pfizer Animal Health.

The advantages of adopting an older pet • Older pets generally have had some training experience with families.

• Older pets have learned "no" and how to leave furniture, shoes, and other "chewables" alone.

• They have been "socialized" and know how to be part of a pack and get along with humans and, in many cases, other companion animals.

• They appreciate love and attention and quickly learn what's expected of them to gain and keep that love and attention.

• They know how to sit calmly next to you while your workday stress flows away and, thanks to their presence, your blood pressure lowers. They are also instant companions, ready for hiking, car rides, walks, play, etc.

• They are a "known commodity" — easy to assess temperament, and no guessing how big they'll grow!

Thanks to the Senior Dog Project for permission to excerpt/reprint the information on this page. The Senior Dog Project is an extraordinary resource for all things older dog, offering tons of information, stories, and inspiration.

Spot thanks the Senior Dog Project for the great service and work they do, and the enormous amount of love that goes into it !

Service of

Remembrance Dignified Pet Services Presents In partnership with the DoveLewis Pet Loss Support Program

December 3rd 2015 Service: 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Doors open at 6:00 p.m.

The Old Church 1422 SW 11th Ave. Portland

(at SW Columbia St.)

Please join us in celebration of the invisible yet powerful bond between humans and our beloved companion animals. Together, surrounded by others who understand this bond, we will light candles in memory of those who are no longer with us.

Service animals permitted.

Parking available at SW 10th & Clay

www.spotmagazine.net | 39

Fetch

R unchy little newsbits to chew on

Help end horse soring

For the ! of seniors

Congress enacted the Horse Protection Act (HPA) in 1970 to make illegal the barbaric practice of “soring.” This is a practice of deliberately injuring/ inflicting pain on Tennessee Walking Horses’ hooves and legs to exaggerate their high-stepping gait, known as the “Big Lick," to gain competitive advantage at horse shows.

Jake ‘n Max’s Boxes of Love began as a tribute to the endless unwavering love of two beloved senior dogs. The annual dog supply drive (mid-January to mid-February) accepts donations that sweet oldsters in need of forever homes need and deserve. Rescues devoted to older animals are typically stretched thin by the cost of veterinary care, and rely heavily on donations. Cushy beds, soft chew toys, comfortable walking gear and healthy supplements are just some of the items that can help make the lives of these faithful friends cozier and filled with love.

Though the HPA was signed into law more than 40 years ago, the cruelty continues in the Big Lick segment of the Tennessee Walking Horse industry.

A just-released video from an undercover investigator with The Humane Society of the United States exposed numerous instances of illegal soring at ThorSport Farm.

The Prevent All Soring Tactics (PAST) Act, H.R. 3268/S. 1121, would amend the Horse Protection Act to end industry self-policing, ban the use of devices associated with soring, strengthen penalties, and make other reforms necessary to end this torture.

Want to help eradicate this practice? Write and call your state legislators.

Learn more at humanesocietyorg.

Rose City Vet Tech wins PVMA Award Becky Smith, Rose City Veterinary Hospital’s (RCVH) Technical Supervisor and a Certified Veterinary Technician, has received the Portland Medical Association’s Paraprofessional of the Year award.

These annual awards honor members of the veterinary field who have contributed to the community and the profession. The Paraprofessional Award shines a light on veterinary team members who have shown exceptional leadership and dedication.

Smith has been with RCVH since 2002, serves on several veterinary boards, is a guest lecturer at DoveLewis’s annual conference, and teaches many community pet care classes at RCVH. RCVH Hospital Manager Jasmine Bachrach said about Smith’s recognition: “It couldn’t be more well-deserved. We are very fortunate to have such an absolutely brilliant tech, teacher, animal advocate and all-around wonderful human being on our team.”

Get in the spirit with Bowser’s Boo Bash Guests are encouraged to don their favorite costumes for a “monster mash” celebration — Willamette Humane Society’s annual Boo Bash — Oct. 24 at the Salem Conference Center. This year’s bash celebrates WHS’s 50th anniversary with dinner, hosted beer and wine, live music, and a chance to bid on hundreds items, including vacation packages, pet-themed items and one-of-a-kind experiences on the block during live and silent auctions. After-party festivities include dancing, games and more. For details or tickets, visit WHS4Pets.org.

40 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

Celebrating its 4th year, Jake ‘n Max’s Boxes of Love partners with local businesses who act as donation sites, with cheerily-decorated boxes ready and waiting to be filled. The drive culminates with a Senior Love Adoption event. If your place of business would LOVE to participate, please email vonnie@spotmagazine.net.

Take a drive-thru Portland’s new pet supply Oregon scores another first with the July opening of The Filling Station Pet Supplies in SW Portland. The nation’s first drive-thru pet supply store gives on-the-go pet owners a one-stop option for taking care of their pets’ needs, great for those with small children or pets in the car.

In addition to the drive-thru, The Filling Station offers 1,800 SF of retail space designed to give customers a warm, fun shopping experience that has levels of interaction for pet owners and their pets. A “Taster Wall” filled with dry cat and dog kibble samples gives a “try before you buy” option, and display tables are designed as safe havens for dogs to lie underneath while their owners get advice on nutrition, behavior and products.

This is the second pet supply store for owner Laura Amiton, having owned the Healthy Pets Northwest store on Alberta for 11 years. The product mix of natural foods and local products of Healthy Pets Northwest is mirrored at The Filling Station.

“It was important to me to look at all the possible ways pet owners shop,” says Amiton, “and design a store around what they said was missing. What I learned confirmed my instincts. Pet owners want the best products they can find, they want excellent customer service, and a more convenient experience near where they work and live.” Learn more at tfspets.com.

Hallmark Channel goes to the dogs The American Humane Association’s Hero Dog Awards premieres Oct. 30 on The Hallmark Channel with a star-studded palette of celebrities including Derek Hough, Lea Thompson, Danica McKellar, Pauley Perrette, Allison Sweeney, and more.

Now in its fifth year, the Hero Dog Awards competition searches out and recognizes America’s furry, four-legged heroes — often ordinary dogs who do

extraordinary things, whether it’s saving lives, providing profound comfort, lending sight or hearing, or simply the tail-wagging welcome pet owners relish at day’s end. The program salutes eight category finalists chosen in a nationwide online vote with the announcement of the American Hero Dog of the Year. Learn more at herodogawards.org.

Need help choosing good cat food?

Get your Meow! on History was made when Adam Ellis decided to place a fun little hat on his adopted feline friend Maxwell, then snapped and uploaded the photo to Instagram.

The feline food industry is flooded with choices, with product formulations for average healthy kitties to those with special needs. Knowing what’s best for your pretty kitty can be downright confusing. Consumer Affairs comprehensive Cat Food Guide is working to simplify the task. The guide details what you should know before purchasing, the features that matter most, how to read cat food labels, and expert reviews. Videos feature Dr. Ken Tudor, a recognized expert and leader in pet nutrition, who shares his predictions for the cat food industry. Read, watch and share at consumeraffairs.com/pets/cat-food.

Now Ellis’ compilation of adorable photos of cats in hats with amusing anecdotes are available in a new book, Tiny Hats on Cats, available Oct. 20.

The book also has a DIY element — step-by-step instructions for crafting your own colorful kitty headgear. Wondering what to get the cat lovers, crafters, and pop-culture fans on your list this holiday? This might be it.

Pre-order at tinyhatsoncats.com.

Record-breaking animals steal the show

Forest fires devastated communities throughout Oregon this summer, affecting not only countless human beings, but animals — including cats, dogs and other small animals, as well as livestock, including horses, cattle, sheep, pigs and chickens. Local feed and pet stores, businesses and organizations, have united to collect goods to help those in need through The Portland Metro Animal Relief Effort.

A sprinting tortoise, a coordinated canine, a set of barnyard dynamos, and the furriest rabbit around have made their way into the new Guinness Book of World Records. After researching and scouting the animal kingdom for over a year, the global authority on record-breaking achievement announced the new pet and animal records for the 2016 edition.

"Pet records are some of the most popular Guinness World Records titles, and readers can't wait to see the jaw-dropping new animal exploits year after year," says editor-in-chief Craig Glenday. "The 2016 edition features an impressive mix of talented household pets and barnyard behemoths from around the world.”

Help pets affected by fires

Participating member Lorri Bishop of Mighty Dog Daycare and Playhouse in Gladstone is working to make people aware of the need and the drive. Donations are being accepted at numerous locations, listed below, as is a list of items most needed.

Once gathered, donated items are taken to coordinators who deliver them to fire-affected areas with the most need for each item gathered.

Check out animal achievements and more in the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS 2016 edition, available now where books are sold.

Locations accepting donations:

New campaign benefits shelters nationwide

Mighty Dog Daycare and Playhouse, 601 1st St in Gladstone • 503-305-7368

My Rescue.dog — launched on National Dog Day — is helping raise money for homeless dogs with help from dog lovers/rescuers themselves.

Clackamas Feed and Supply, 15734 SE 130th Ave in Clackamas • 503-655-9457

Adopters post pictures and short stories about their beloved rescues, and consumers vote for their favorites. Each posted picture generates a $10 donation to the PetFinder Foundation, and each vote $1, maxing at $100,000.

The shelter or rescue group that placed the most popular dog will receive $25,000, the next 15 receive $5,000 each.

Coastal Farm and Ranch, 1900 McLaughlin Blvd in Oregon City • 503-657-5780 Urban Farm Store, 3454 SE Powell in Portland • 503-234-7733 Linnton Fees and Supply, 10920 NW Saint Helens Rd in Portland • 503-286-1291 Western Pet Supply, 6908 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy in Beaverton • 503-297-6644

MyRescue.dog is among the first websites to use the new .dog (dot dog) domain, which was released to the public in August this year as a new option for dog-oriented businesses and brands.

Aloha Feed Garden and Pet, 18840 SW Alexander St in Beaverton • 503- 649-6723

DoveLewis now offers internal medicine

Items needed:

Internal medicine is a specialty veterinary discipline focused on the diagnosis and treatment of chronic or complicated diseases.

DoveLewis has added this element to its offerings, welcoming to the team Dr. Barbara Davis, DACVIM, a board-certified veterinary internal medicine specialist.

Davis obtained her BS in Biology from Loyola University in 2005 and DVM from the Dr. Barbara Davis University of Minnesota in 2009. She went on to complete a small animal internship and to practice small animal general medicine. She received board certification in 2015, and enjoys managing a range of complex small animal medical cases with a special interest in renal and liver diseases and infectious diagnosis and management.

Appointments with Dr. Davis are by referral from patients’ primary care veterinarians, with whom she will work closely and in support of to provide diagnosis and treatment.

AG West Supply, 185 W Main St in Hillsboro • 503- 648-4178

Medical: Gauze (large and small) Self-adhesive elastic bandages Wound care products Leg wraps Bute Fly masks Fly spray/ gel/ wipes Blankets Feed: Grain-plus Senior grain Hay horse or farm animal-grade Chicken feed and scratch Dog and Cat Food Mineral and Salt blocks

Housing and Care: Dog and cat crates Kennels Fence panels No-climb wire Buckets, watering troughs, water dishes Feed buckets, small pet dishes Cat boxes, litter Shavings and straw Dog collars and leashes Halters and lead ropes Brushes for all animal types

www.spotmagazine.net | 41

Megan Mahan • Spot Magazine

Spotlight on…

The Doberman Pinscher Breed Overview Size: Large - 60-100 lbs Grooming needs: Minimal

Exercise: High needs Environment: Indoors with Outdoor Exercise Temperament: Intelligent, lively and very loyal

Life Expectancy: 10-13 years

Interesting Fact Doberman Pinschers, or Dobies, were developed by Louis Dobermann in the 1870s. Though no exact record was kept of the breeds used to create the new breed, we do know that many dogs were crossed with German Pinschers. These include a diverse range from the German Pointer to the Greyhound, as well as non-pedigreed dogs.

Appearance The Doberman has a sleek, powerful appearance. It is a tall athletic dog with a deep chest and powerful hind quarters. He is black, blue, red or fawn, and sometimes has a white patch on the chest. He has colored markings above the eyes, on the muzzle and throat, plus the chest, legs,

Fall in love

with a shelter animal Come find a furever friend at Multnomah County Animal Services or our MultCoPets North Lombard Adoption Center

MultCoPets.org 2914 N Lombard St, Portland, OR 97217 1700 W Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale, OR 97060

42 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

feet and tail. The muzzle is somewhat narrow. Many owners or breeders dock (shorten) the tail and crop (cut and set upright) the ears to give the dogs a more fierce appearance.

Personality This writer had a lot of fun researching this breed and speaking with owners, because I’ve always found the breed’s appearance a bit intimidating. The softer side of Dobies can be seen in the fact that they have been trained as guide dogs for people who are blind. Bred to be a working dog, such as a police or property guard, they have often been portrayed as guard dogs in films and popular media. The original breeder wanted the dog to look aggressive and be aggressive if necessary*. Now the breed is less aggressive than in the past. Dobermans can be very affectionate and loyal companions with people they know well.

Dobie owners often report this is the only breed they want to have.

Common Health Problems Prone to skin ailments and food allergies.

Best Match Some suggest that families with young children may want a more placid breed. This alert guardian needs plenty of opportunities to run and also stimulate their minds. Puppies should be well socialized and trained. The best match for this dog is someone who enjoys training and exercising (a lot!) with their dog. They will be rewarded with a loving, protective companion.

Featured Adoptable: BANJO Banjo is a gentleman on leash. His calm energy and playful nature make him a great match for any family. This is one smart boy! He knows how to heel, lay down, shake, and sit nicely for treats. Take him hiking, camping or simply enjoy his company on a beautiful day. He loves it all! This handsome Doberman mix is about 8 years old. He loves people, is great with kids and dogs, but will chase cats (and squirrels!). Might he be exactly what is missing from your home? Banjo recently had surgery (8/20/15) to repair a broken toe. He is recovering well.

For more information: http://www.SanctuaryOne.org/adoption_information.html email info@SanctuaryOne.org, or call 541-899-8627 *Alderton, David. The Dog Selector. Barrons, New York: 2010.

Megan Mahan lives in Eugene with her boyfriend Jacob, their adopted Lab Maddie, many saltwater fish and two miniature Silver Appleyard Ducks, Louie and Olive.

Babies in need of forever loving homes.

Joan

Radar Hi! I’m Radar ! — a 7-yearold female Chihuahua. I love my people and lounging on a dog bed. I’m good with dogs and cats, and can’t wait to find my retirement home! Wouldn’t you love spending our golden years together? Let’s meet! I’m at Oregon Dog Rescue, 503-612-0111 or Info@oregondogrescue.org.

I’m a mature Tuxedo girl of about 14 years. I’m small at just under 6 lbs, but my friends at the shelter (who love the white tip on my tail) say with a cozy home with a good diet I’m sure to grow. I’ve spent some time outside, but can’t wait for a roof over my head and a family to love me! Could that be you? If so, please contact my foster mom, Paula, at paula.yocum@gmail. com and come meet me! Learn more at multcopets.org — my ID # is 566776. xoxo, Joan!

Hello, everyone! I'm Jessie, an incredibly sweet Labrador Retriever who’s ready to fill your home with quiet love and appreciation. I'm an older girl, so time to rest my hips is always appreciated. But I’m still a goofy Lab, so fetching a ball a few times makes me feel youthful, and so happy! I do have some allergies, so I need a top-notch diet and regular flea control. I’m doing well in foster care; they say I’m a wonderful and loving companion.

Want to share in my golden years? I dream of a family with kids over 12; I’m about 10, and I weigh 70 lbs. Come meet me! Contact Alix to set it up at alix. womack@multco.us or 503.988.6247. We might just fall in love! Learn more at multcopets.org — my ID # is 569685.

My heart may be murmuring, but my voice is fine: Take me home! I’m a 3-year-old Tabby with classic stripes, a framed orange nose, and big golden eyes — which can’t I wait to lay on the sight of my new home! I dig a serene scene with laid-back people. If you feel me, let’s get together! I’m at 1st Avenue Shelter in Eugene — ask for Cuba!

Learn more at Green-hill.org.

Hi! If you’ve visited Greenhill’s Cattery, I’m the girl in the uppermost perch!

I love sitting up high, but have discovered it means I’ve gone unnoticed and unadopted.

I watch other cats being spirited away to their “Happily Ever Afters” and wonder when it will be my turn. And I’ll make an excellent best friend! My daring Tortoishell catitude and adventuresome, indoor/ outdoor nature makes me a great catch! Come meet me at Greenhill Humane Society — just look up!

Details Green-hill.org.

They say I’m a rare dog for sure!

As a Bandogge Mastiff mix, I sport the unique features of my watchdog ancestors but none of their discipline. My main concern is how many kisses I can get from as many new acquaintances in a day! I am 6 yrs old and not a “walk by your side and look pretty" kind of girl, but a "Let's do 71-lb. cannonballs in mud puddles and then chase squirrels!" kind of pooch. Fun, right?! If you or someone you know is ready for this kind of love and fun, come meet me — I’m at Greenhill! Green-hill.org.

Woody

Jessie

Cuba

Bindy

Taffy Rose

Hiya! I’m not a senior, they invited me here today because no one is seeing me at the shelter — I guess I just don’t catch their eye! Boy, when I meet “the one” though, that’s going to be a happy day for us both! I’m just 2, 58 lbs, and my foster mom calls me her 100% dog because I put my all into everything I do! That includes learning tricks, playing fetch, snuggling, and especially loving you!

I learn quickly and am eager to please. My ideal home is with my very own guy, gal, or couple to help me learn and grow. I like my ears scratched, NOT pulled, so no young kids please. What do you say! Let’s get together! Contact adoptafosterdog@familydogsnewlife.org to make a date!

Fern In 2013, a Good Samaritan walked into the emergency veterinary hospital cradling a limp cat — me. The doctors felt I had ingested toxins or suffered a stroke. I went to 1st Avenue Shelter and was given intensive, extended care, and in no time you never could have guessed that scary day ever happened and I got adopted! But now I’m back, 2 years later, and embarrassingly they say I am now obese. Could you help me get back to my sleek, trim self? I am looking for the person who wants to be part of my success story! They save the best for last… let’s enjoy it together … forever! Please come meet me at Greenhill in Eugene!

Chica I was a stray, and I hope that won’t deter you from meeting me — not my fault! I was separated from my family. I’ve been waiting for them to come get me at 1st Avenue Shelter, but they haven’t. So all the love I’ve been saving up I am so ready to give to my new forever family! I’m currently in foster care – please call 541-844-1777 to learn more about me, and to make a date!

rescueme! Brought to you by the pet-loving people at

Frontier Veterinary Hospital PC “Caring for your pets and family as our own” — since 1947 Frontier Veterinary Hospital PC • 4500 NE Cornell Rd, Hillsboro • 503.648.1643 • FrontierVet.com

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Cover Model 411 NAME: Shasta

ADOPTION / RESCUE Multnomah Co. Animal Svc ................. 42

PACK: Shasta travels and lives

BOARDING / DAYCARE Mittens Motel ................................................ 44 Rose City Veterinary Hospital ................ 29

with me in the van as we explore America. She is looking forward to being out of the van and spending the holidays in a real house with real people. We'll be in Texas with family for December.

LOVES: Shasta loves me and her big Kong squeaky tennis-type balls. I probably come in second to the ball. Shasta was out playing ball the day I picked her up at OHS and my hope is that her last day will include ball time.

DOESN’T LOVE: FIREWORKS AND THUNDER SPECIAL NOTES ABOUT KATIE: In the last year and a half Shasta has travelled over 30,000 miles in the western half of the US. She has seen mighty rivers, herds of buffalo and listened with me as the coyotes howl around us at night.

— Marty Davis, Shasta’s mom

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS Pdxdog.com .................................................... 44 DOG WALKING Pet Stop ............................................................ 44 END OF LIFE SERVICES Compassionate Care .................................. 7 Dignified Pet Services .......................... 6, 23 Healing the Heart Keepsake Frames ................................ 16, 44 EVENTS Good Neighbor Vet FunPlanner broadcast ............................. 47 Service of Remembrance ........................ 39 GIFTS Bi-Mart .................................................. 7, 17, 48 Fred Meyer Jewelry .................................... 6, 17 Healing the Heart Keepsake Frames ................................... 16, 44 GROOMING Rose City Vet Hospital .................................. 29 HOTEL / VACATION PROPERTIES Idyllic Beach House – Pacific City ........... 24 McMenamins Pet-Friendly Hotels ....... 25 PET STITTING PetStop Pet Services ............................... 44 PHOTOGRAPHY Sit Stay Pet Photography ......................... 19

44 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

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PRODUCTS / SUPPLIES Animal Health Solutions .......................... 15 Bi-Mart ................................................... 7, 17, 48 Vita Bone .............................................................. 2 SPAY / NEUTER Multnomah Co. Animal Svc ................. 42 VETERINARY CARE / WELLNESS At Home Veterinary Services ................ 7 Back on Track Vet .................................... 24 Compassionate Care ................................. 7 Cascade Veterinary Referral Center (CVRC) .............................................................. 31 Columbia River Veterinary Specialists (CRVS) ................................................................. 35 DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital ................................................................ 7 Frontier Veterinary Hospital .......... 27, 43 Good Neighbor Vet .............................. 6, 13 Halsey East Animal Clinic ................. 11 Rose City Veterinary Hospital ................ 29 Tanasbourne Emergency Veterinary ..... 8 VOLUNTEERING Fences For Fido .............................................. 2

Holiday Gift Ideas

Bi-Mart ................................................................. 17 Cat Adoption Team ..................................... 16 Fred Meyer Jewelers ................................... 17 Healing the Heart ......................................... 16 Heal Animal Massage ............................... 17 Meat for Cats & Dogs ............................... 16 Oregon Humane Society Genuine Gifts .................................................. 16 Oregon Humane Society Best Friends Corner .................................... 17 Pet Bath & Beyond ................................ 16, 17 Pets on Broadway ...................................... 17

The GOOD NEIGHBOR VET 3

1

October

5-9pm • PORTLAND — PUB NIGHT & DOG PAWTY at Rogue’s Green Dragon Bistro & Pub. Kick off Adopt-a-Dog month in style at this kid- and dog-friendly benefit night featuring live music and raffles for Project POOCH. $10 cover includes a pint, souvenir glass, and human/ canine treats. Details Pooch.org.

6-10pm • PORTLAND — PARTY FOR PIT BULLS, a benefit for Lovers Not Fighters Pit Bull Rescue, at Akemi Salon. $25 haircuts by amazing stylists, vegan eats, a raffle, kissing booth and more. Limited hair appointments; call 503-737-8049 to book one!

Details Lovers-Not-Fighters.org.

3 8-6pm • RIDGEFIELD— 16TH ANNUAL BIRDFEST at Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Celebrate fall and the wildlife that make the refuge their home. Family-friendly activities include tours, workshops, canoe/ kayak trips, demos, bluegrass music, bird shows and more. Most activities are free; Details RidgefieldFriends.org.

8:30-1 • VANCOUVER — LURE COURSE EVENT at Brush Prairie off-leash dog park. Take your dog to chase the lure and burn off energy. $3/members; $5/non-members.

Details ClarkDogpaw.org.

10am • LAKE OSWEGO — 3RD ANNUAL ANIMAL BLESSING at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church.

Blessing of the animals in honor of Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals. Rain or shine.

Free; all pets welcome and must be on leash or contained. Or bring a photo. Separate area for livestock.

Details OLLParish.com.

10-2 • KEIZER — HOWL-APALOOZA at Keizer Rapids Park.

Free education and resource fair for dogs and the people who love them.

Family-friendly event features lowcost vaccines, vet services, license amnesty, costume contest, demos and more. Details MCDogs.net.

10:30-4 • PORTLAND — END OF SUMMER YARD SALE BASH. One day of secondhand goodness to benefit Lovers Not Fighters Pit Bull Rescue. Address TBA. To donate, email sarah@lovers-not-fighters.org. For details visit the LNFPBR Facebook page.

Noon-3pm • PORTLAND — FUREVER PETS ADOPTION DAY. Meet sweet adoptables from OHS. OregonHumane.org.

4-5pm • PORTLAND — HELPING PAWS: HOW YOUR DOG CAN BECOME A THERAPY DOG. Learn about Pet Partners’ Animal-Assisted Therapy Program and whether your dog would be a good fit. People only; please leave pets at home. $15/suggested donation. Details OregonHumane.org 5pm • VANCOUVER — DOGS & CATS & PEOPLE (OH MY!) ANNUAL DINNER/AUCTION at Hilton Vancouver. Vintage Carnival is the theme for this annual fundraiser for the Humane Society of SW Washington. Details/ tickets SouthwestHumane.org.

5-10pm • ALBANY — TAILS AT TWILIGHT FUNDRAISER: SATURDAY NIGHT LIGHTS at Albany Boys and Girls Club. Be a game-changer for animals in need at this annual fundraiser for SafeHaven Humane. This Pac-12-themed event is a stadium full of fun with tailgate eats, live/silent auctions, pep band performances, and more. Tickets $50; details SafeHavenHumane.org.

4 8:30-4 • CORVALLIS —AKC MATCH & RESPONSIBLE DOG OWNERSHIP DAY at Benton County Fairgrounds. All breeds including mixes welcome in Obedience, Rally, and Canine Good Citizenship Tests.

Educational resources available.

Details ChintiminiKennelClub.com.

5 5:30-7pm • SALEM —VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION at Willamette Humane. Discover opportunities to help the animals at WHS. Overview, history, and facility tour. Also offered Oct. 22. Details WHS4Pets.org.

7 6-7pm • VANCOUVER — WEST COLUMBIA GORGE HUMANE VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION at Vancouver Police East Precinct. Dedicate a few hours a month and help animals in need. Individuals & families welcome. Details WCGHS.org.

7-8pm • PORTLAND — DIFFICULT PET SUPPORT GROUP at DoveLewis. Non-judgmental support group for anyone struggling with living with a difficult pet. Learn coping strategies and connect with others. Pet photos welcome; please leave pets at home.

Free; RSVP (required) to Rachel@RuffMuttsCooperative.com.

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10

5am-11:30pm • PORTLAND — OHS TELETHON 2015 on KATU Channel 2. See adorable pets, hear rescue and adoption stories, and donate to help pets in need. Segments are broadcast throughout the day with non-stop coverage 9-10am.

Details OregonHumane.org.

10-11am • PORTLAND — TOUR FCCO’S HQ and spay/neuter clinic.

Discover how FCCO is making a difference in the lives of cats and their caregivers. RSVP/Details FeralCats.com.

7-9pm • PORTLAND — ANIMAL HOSPICE SUPPORT GROUP. Monthly support for those with aging or ailing pets and those providing hospice care. Hosted by Ute Luppertz at Shiva’s Hope House; admission by donation. RSVP/details 503-774-2986 or PetsPointofView.vpweb.com.

2-4pm • TIGARD — BIRTHDAY PAWTAY at The Filling Station Pet Supplies. Monthly celebration for people, cats, dogs, and small animals with birthdays or adoption days during the month of October. Free bday photos and treats (treats to go for pets unable to go in store).

Details tfspets.com.

4:30-11pm • PORTLAND — WILDCAT HAVEN’S HALLOWEEN SOIREE at The Sentinel Hotel. Bewitching fundraiser features devilish drinks, fang-tastic food, spellbinding live/silent auctions, magical monster music and more. Tickets $75/$85 at the door. Details WildcatHaven.org.

9 4-6pm • VANCOUVER — PROTECT YOUR PET CLINIC WITH GOOD NEIGHBOR VET at HSSW. License your pet and get free rabies vaccines, plus free exam at the Humane Society for SW Washington. Additional vaccines $10; microchips $15. Dogs must be on leash; cats in carriers.

Details SouthwestHumane.org and GoodNeighborVet.com.

5:30pm • PORTLAND — WET NOSE SOIREE at The Grand Sentinel Hotel. This Grand Budapest hotelthemed fundraiser for DoveLewis features gourmet dinner, live/silent auctions, pet and person fashion show and glamourous after-party with dancing and signature cocktails.

Details/tickets DoveLewis.org.

10 8-11am • TROUTDALE — PROTECT YOUR PET CLINIC WITH GOOD NEIGHBOR VET at MCAS. License your pet and get free rabies vaccines, plus free exam at Multnomah County Animal Services.

Additional vaccines $10; microchips $15. Dogs must be on leash; cats in carriers. Details MultCoPets.org.

10-6 • PORTLAND — CUSTOMER APPRECIATION SALE at Natural Pet Food Solutions. Celebrate the 4th anniversary with up to 40% off supplies and 20% off pet food. Details NaturalPetFoodSolutions.com.

10-6 • PORTLAND — PET EXPO at the Expo Center. Learn, shop, play, adopt. Free admission; pets allowed.

Details PortlandPetExpo.com.

11 7am-1pm • PORTLAND — RACE FOR THE RESCUES at Portland International Raceway. Timed 5K and 10K races with a Kids Fun Run and Dog Walk to benefit local animal welfare organizations. Also vendors, live music, beer garden, and adoptables.

Details RacefortheRescues.org.

8am • PORTLAND — PAW TEAM VET CLINIC. New location: 1131 SE Oak St. Help for those on gov’t assistance or experiencing homelessness.

Must be in line before 11am to be seen. $5/pet co-pay; no one turned away for true inability to pay.

Details PAWTeam.org.

9:30-11am • SHERWOOD — VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION at Cat Adoption Team. Get paid in head butts and purrs! Learn how you can help the kitties and be part of a great team. Also offered Oct. 25.

Details CatAdoptionTeam.org.

Noon-3pm • TIGARD — FIND SOME BUNNY TO LOVE at Tigard Petco. Meet adoptables and their Rabbit Advocates and get care & adoption resources. Light grooming & nail trims for visiting bunnies (suggested donation). DetailsAdoptARabbit.org.

3-4:30pm • PORTLAND — MEMORIAL ART THERAPY WORKSHOP at DoveLewis. Create a memento and spend time in good company. Free; RSVP to DoveLewis.org.

15 7-8pm • PORTLAND — DEAF DOGS MEETUP at Play & Chase Dog Day Care. Free training and socialization for deaf dogs and their owners.

Details DeafDogsofOregon.org.

www.spotmagazine.net | 45

The GOOD NEIGHBOR VET 18 17 10-11:30am • EUGENE —CAT COLONY CLASS at Greenhill Humane. Learn how to care for a feral cat colony and how to trap, transport and recover cats for spay/neuter. Free; donation of wish-list items appreciated. Details Green-Hill.org.

10-Noon • PORTLAND — PET FIRST AID COMMUNITY WORKSHOP at DoveLewis. Learn the basics of pet first aid and be prepared for emergencies. Free; RSVP required to DoveLewis.org.

10-3 • WOODBURN —FALL FASHION FRENZY at Woodburn Outlet Stores. Grab friends for a fabulous day of shopping, savings and fun to benefit 11 local charities. Tickets, $20, include lunch, giveaways, swag bag and more. Details fallfashionfrenzy15.eventbrite.com.

10-7 • WILSONVILLE —ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION at Nature’s Pet Market. Celebrate with raffles, discounts, giveaways and more. Proceeds benefit Project POOCH. Details NaturesPetMarket/ Wilsonville.

1:30-4:30pm • ESTACADA — WORK PARTY/VISITING DAY at Out to Pasture Sanctuary. Mingle with farm animals and try your hand at farm chores! Free; all ages welcome.

Please do not arrive before 1:30.

Details OuttoPastureSanctuary.org.

4:30-6pm • PORTLAND — PUPPY ROMPS! at Oregon Humane. Socializing puppies while young makes for good lifelong habits. Trainers on site.

Soft & Sweet session @ 4:30, Rough & Tumble session @ 5:15. Details OregonHumane.org.

18 10-1 • PORTLAND — BEGINNING TTOUCH WORKSHOP. Hands-on TTouch basics workshop to promote good health and wellbeing. $55 with dog; $40 without. Details/RSVP OregonHumane.org.

1-2pm • PORTLAND — PROBLEM POOCH CLASS at OHS. Great for new or soon-to-be pet parents, and those who just want to know what makes Fido tick. Free; please leave pets at home.

31

0

3pm • PORTLAND — ANIMAL COMMUNITY TALKS at DoveLewis.

Free lecture series for those who work/volunteer with animals. This month’s topic is “Lion in the House: Feeding Your Cat for Optimal Health and Happiness.” Details/RSVP AnimalCommunity.org.

Happy Halloween

19

5:30-7pm • SALEM — VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION at Willamette Humane. Discover opportunities to help the animals at WHS. Overview, history, and facility tour. Also offered Oct. 22. Details WHS4Pets.org.

10:30-11:15am • EUGENE — ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FOSTERING A CAT at Campbell Senior Center. Learn how to get started in fostering and save a life without spending a penny. Free; details WestCoastDogandCat.org.

22 5:30-7pm • SALEM —VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION at Willamette Humane. Learn how you can help the animals at WHS and tour the facility.

Details WHS4Pets.org.

24 9-11am • CLACKAMAS — PROTECT YOUR PET CLINIC WITH GOOD NEIGHBOR VET at Clackamas County Dog Services. License your pet and get free rabies vaccines, plus free exam. Additional vaccines $10; microchips $15. Details ClackamasDogs.org and GoodNeighborVet.com.

Noon-4pm • PORTLAND — CUTE CRITTERS IN COSTUME! at Western Pet Supply. Dress your furry friend in seasonal duds and get a Halloweenthemed photo taken and enter to win great prizes. Proceeds benefit Animal Aid. Details AnimalAidPDX.org.

5-10pm • SALEM — BOWSER’S BOO BASH at Salem Convention Center. Get in costume and join Willamette Humane Society for dinner, hosted bar, live music, photos, raffles, auctions and after-party festivities.

Details/tickets WHS4Pets.org.

6pm • PORTLAND — PUG-O-WEEN at Splendorporium. Halloweenthemed Pug fun with costume contests, games, snacks, beverages and more. Details PacificPugRescue.org.

27 7-8pm • TROUTDALE— MCAS VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION at MCAS shelter. Learn how you can be a part of this great team, about fostering, and how you can help. No need to RVSP, just show up! Details MultCoPets.org.

46 Spot Magazine | October/November 2015

2

November

4 6-7pm • VANCOUVER — WEST COLUMBIA GORGE HUMANE VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION at Vancouver Police East Precinct. Dedicate a few hours a month and help animals in need. Individuals & families welcome. Details WCGHS.org.

7-8pm • PORTLAND — DIFFICULT PET SUPPORT GROUP at DoveLewis. Non-judgmental support group for those struggling with the challenge of a difficult pet. Learn coping strategies and solutions and connect with others. Please leave pets at home. Free; RSVP (required) to Rachel@RuffMuttsCooperative.com.

6 11:30-1:30 • PORTLAND — 16TH ANNUAL OREGON FALL LUNCHEON at the Nines Hotel. Wine tasting reception, luncheon and raffle to benefit Guide Dogs of Oregon.

Featuring guest speaker Trevor Thomas and his guide dog, Tennille.

Details/tickets GuideDogs.com.

10:30-6 • SALEM — WHS THRIFT STORE HOLIDAY BAZAAR. Deck the halls on a discounted budget! Annual fundraiser offers great deals on new and gently-used holiday trinkets and treasures. Proceeds benefit the animals at WHS. Continues Nov. 7.

Details WHS4Pets.org.

7 11-6 • PORTLAND — ANIMAL COMMUNICATION SESSIONS with Ute Luppertz of Pets Point of View during the Body-Mind-Spirit Expo at the Convention Center. Today and Nov. 8.

Details PetsPointofView.vpweb.com.

Noon-3pm • PORTLAND — ADOPTION DAY at Furever Pets.

Meet sweet adoptables from OHS.

7 4-5:30pm • PORTLAND — HIGHRISE HOUNDS. Learn about the dangers of high-rise living and how to keep your pets safe. Please leave pets at home. $15/suggested donation. Details OregonHumane.org.

8 8am • PORTLAND — PAW TEAM VET CLINIC. New location: 1131 SE Oak St. Help for those on gov’t assistance or experiencing homelessness. Must be in line before 11 to be seen. $5/pet co-pay; no one turned away for true inability to pay. Details PAWTeam.org.

Noon-3pm • TIGARD — FIND SOME BUNNY TO LOVE at Petco.

Meet adoptables and their Rabbit Advocates. Get resources and light grooming & nail trims for visiting bunnies (suggested donation). Details AdoptARabbit.org.

3-4:30pm • PORTLAND — MEMORIAL ART THERAPY WORKSHOP at DoveLewis. Create a memento and spend time in good company. Free; RSVP to DoveLewis.org.

11

Veterans Day 9:45am • PORTLAND — PITTIES IN PINK AT VETERAN’S DAY PARADE. Cheer our veterans and the Pitties in Pink from Multnomah County Animal Services in this annual parade. Details MultCoPets.org.

12 10-11am • PORTLAND — 1011am • PORTLAND — TOUR FCCO’S HQ and spay/neuter clinic.

Discover how FCCO is making a difference in the lives of cats and their caregivers. RSVP/Details FeralCats.com.

7-9pm • PORTLAND — ANIMAL HOSPICE SUPPORT GROUP. For those with aging or ailing pets and those providing hospice care. Hosted

by Ute Luppertz at Shiva’s Hope House; admission by donation. RSVP/ details 503-774-2986 or PetsPointofView.vpweb.com.

13 4-6pm • VANCOUVER — PROTECT YOUR PET CLINIC WITH GOOD NEIGHBOR VET at HSSW. License your pet and get free rabies vaccines, plus free exam at the Humane Society for SW Washington. Additional vaccines $10; microchips $15. Details SouthwestHumane and GoodNeighborVet.com.

13 7pm • EUGENE — 8TH ANNUAL ART FOR ANIMALS at Ninkasi Brewing Company. Join Greenhill Humane in helping homeless animals and celebrating local artists with live/ silent auctions. Tickets/details Green-Hill.org.

14 8-11am • TROUTDALE — PROTECT YOUR PET CLINIC WITH GOOD NEIGHBOR VET at MCAS. License your pet and get free rabies vaccines, plus free exam at Multnomah County Animal Services.

Additional vaccines $10; microchips $15. Details MultCoPets.org and GoodNeighborVet.com.

11-3 • VARIOUS — SANTA PAWS PET PHOTOS at Portland-area Fred Meyer stores. Pets pose with Santa for a great holiday memento. Continues Nov. 15. Details OregonHumane.org.

2-4pm • TIGARD — BIRTHDAY PAWTAY at The Filling Station Pet Supplies. Monthly celebration for people, cats, dogs and small animals with birthdays or adoption days in November. Free bday photos and treats (treats to go for pets unable to go in). Details tfspets.com.

3pm • PORTLAND — ANIMAL COMMUNITY TALKS at DoveLewis.

Free lecture series for those who work/volunteer with animals.

This month’s topic: “Caring for your Geriatric Cat.” Details/RSVP AnimalCommunity.org.

ongoing GET OUT & PLAY! PORTLAND THURSDAYS 6:05pm Tune in for Spot’s Good Neighbor Vet Furry FunPlanner report on events for pets and their peeps on 98.1 FM Radio. The GNV Furry FunPlanner opens the KPSU Family Show.

Cascade Pet Camp HOOD RIVER YAPPY HOUR THURSDAYS 5-7:30pm CascadePetCamp.com BrightSide Animal Center REDMOND BOW WOW BINGO THURSDAYS 6:30pm at 7th Street Brewhouse

Good brew/food & bingo.

BrightSideAnimals.org.

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5pm • PORTLAND — WHISKER WONDERLAND at Crowne Plaza Portland. An elegant evening celebrating cats, kittens and the people who love them to support Cat Adoption Team. 12th annual gala features dinner, complimentary wine/hors d’oeuvres, auctions and plenty of surprises. Details/tickets CatAdoptionTeam.org/Whisker.

5pm • VANCOUVER — A TAIL TO REMEMBER at the Hilton.

Annual dinner and auction to support West Columbia Gorge Humane’s lifesaving work as a no-kill shelter. Tickets/details WCGHS.org.

6-9pm • PORTLAND — PORTLAND’S NEXT TOPDOG MODEL at Hotel Monaco. Dogs of all ages, shapes, sizes and personalities are invited to compete for the coveted title. Details OregonHumane.org.

5-9pm • PORTLAND — WINTER WONDERLAND DOG WALK NIGHT at Portland International Raceway.

Stroll the track with or without a dog (no cars allowed!) and enjoy 250 light displays. Free parking; dogs must be on leash. Admission $6/person; free/ dogs and children under 13. Proceeds benefit local animal charities. Details WinterWonderlandPortland.com.

15 1-2pm • PORTLAND — PROBLEM POOCH CLASS at OHS. Great for new or soon-to-be pet parents, and those who just want to know what makes Fido tick.

Free; please leave pets at home.

19 5:30-7pm • SALEM —VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION at Willamette Humane. Discover opportunities to help the animals at WHS. Details WHS4Pets.org.

5-9pm • PORTLAND — ARTBARK ART SHOW & SALE at The Cleaners at The Ace Hotel.

Join Project POOCH for art, wine, yummy bites, raffles, and live music. This year’s theme is Compassion & Friendship. Tickets, $25, include 1 glass of wine/beer.

Details Pooch.org.

Save The Pets EUGENE ADOPTION OUTREACH SUNDAYS 11-3 PetSmart, 2847 Chad Dr. Animal Aid PORTLAND SHOW & TELL SATURDAYS Noon-4 AnimalAidPdx.org Oregon Humane Society PORTLAND TRAINING CLASSES Various classes all month long. OregonHumane.org THE PONGO FUND PET FOOD BANK PORTLAND 10/11, 10/25 11/8, 11/22 Noon For anyone who needs help feeding their pet(s). Call 503-939-7555 for important details before arriving, ThePongoFund.org PORTLAND PEE WEE PLAYNIGHT TUESDAYS 6-8pm StayPetHotel.com.

21 6-pm • PORTLAND — PIXIE PARTY at Left Bank Annex. Support the Pixie Project and enjoy delicious food and drink, silent and live auctions, and more. Details/tickets PixieProject.org.

24 7-8pm • TROUTDALE— MCAS VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION at MCAS shelter. Learn about fostering and how you can become a part of this great team and help the animals. No need to RSVP. Details MultCoPets.org.

28 9-11am • CLACKAMAS — PROTECT YOUR PET CLINIC WITH GOOD NEIGHBOR VET at Clackamas County Dog Services.

License your pet and get free rabies vaccines, plus free exam. Additional vaccines $10; microchips $15. Dogs must be on leash; cats in carriers.

Details ClackamasDogs.org and GoodNeighborVet.com.

DoveLewis PORTLAND PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP THURS. 10/1, 11/5 Noon THURS. 10/8, 11/12 7pm MON. 10/19, 11/16 7pm THURS. 10/15, 11/19 10am Free. Take a photo to share.

DoveLewis.org.

Marion County Dog Shelter SALEM ADOPTION OUTREACH SATURDAYS 11-4 10/3, 11/7 at South Salem Pet Supply

10/10, 11/14 at PetSmart on Lancaster Drive

10/17, 11/21 at Pet Etc. in West Salem

10/24, 11/28 at Petco on Lancaster Drive

CIRCLE THE DATE! Dec. 3 at 6pm SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE Annual celebration of the human/animal bond and candlelighting ceremony dedicated to beloved friends no longer with us. Presented by Dignified Pet Services in partnership with the DoveLewis Pet Loss Support program. Details DoveLewis.org.

YOGA, CATS, AND YOU! WEDNESDAY 6:30PM All-level gentle yoga with feline flavor Purrington’s Cat Lounge PurringtonsCatLounge.com GOOD NEIGHBOR VET CLINIC MULTIPLE LOCATIONS GoodNeighborVet.com.

FIND YOUR NEW BEST feline FRIEND WEEKENDS Noon-4 At PetSmart stores in Clackamas, Hillsboro Tanasbourne, Tualatin and Washington Square and Petco in Tualatin. CatAdoptionTeam.org.

GUIDE DOG GRADUATION BORING 10/10, 10/24 11/7, 11/21 GuideDogs.com.

www.spotmagazine.net | 47

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