in praise of dogs
Transcription
in praise of dogs
FREE IN PRAISE OF DOGS By Marilyn Marks Owner of The Good Dog Spot! in Bloomfield O ne of my biggest challenges as a dog trainer is getting people to understand what a trained dog is; what expectations to have for their dog. Everyone wants Lassie: never strays, is gentle with all living things, understands English, especially the part about not stealing food well within reach, able to defend family and property without actually harming any one and only when really needed (not from the mail carrier). Oh, and they want all that with little or no effort. Another standard is offered by police and service dogs. They walk at heel, hanging on their handler’s every word. They are calm when the handler is inactive and hard-working when needed. Who wouldn’t want that – in their kid and their employees, let alone their dog?!? But don’t forget, these dogs get hours of professional training. And notice that the person is called the "handler" not the "owner;" it’s a job and a responsibility to work the dog. Did you know that even when dogs are specifically bred for the job, only some of them end up making good working dogs? It’s also not uncommon for service dogs to have to come in for "repairs" when their responsiveness breaks down. And you want your Pound Puppy to do what? (Not that we don’t love our Pound Puppies!) This isn’t to say the average dog can’t be well trained, but it is to say your dog is probably behaving fairly well for the amount of work you put in. People often call for obedience classes because their dog is jumping on guests, stealing food from the counter, running with shoes, etc. What? Do they think the word "sit" is going to control all that running amok? The answer isn’t to run around saying "sit!" "down!" "off!" "come!" when the dog does something wrong, it’s to get the dog to stop jumping, stealing, and running off in the first place. This requires more than obedience to commands. Continued on page 5 IN THIS ISSUE Against Puppy Mills ..............Page 6 News Briefs ..........................Page 6 Animal’s Perspective..............Page 8 Guide to Birdhouses ............Page 11 Top Toys for Ferrets..............Page 13 Pet Horoscopes ..................Page 14 WWW.PETSPRESS.NET Ask the Experts ..................Page 15 Calendar ............................Page 18 Adoptions............................Page 20 Kids Corner ........................Page 21 Marketplace ........................Page 22 Vol. 5 • No. 4 • APRIL 2009 PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 2 The South Windsor Jaycees present the 4th Annual fit To bene SOR WIND SOUTH PARK BARK Saturday A W nd P in S May 2 the 10am-3pm Park To bene fit FIDELC O GUIDE DOG FO UNDAT ION Raising funds for Fidelco and the South Windsor Bark Park. Sponsored in part by: Evergreen Run, S.Windsor DOG WALK KICKS OFF AT 10am led by Country 92.5 Wendy Steele and her dog Caleb s, ntest , o C , ns ors Vend onstratio Food Dem uction, tA Silen CELEBRITY JUDGES: 96.5 TIC-FM’s Jeannine Jersey and NBC30’s Ryan Hanrahan CONTESTS : Demons tratio n by DA (Disaste WGS r and W il d e r n Grounds e S e a r c h e ss r s) Owner/Dog Look Alike • Best Trick • Best Costume & More Schedule of Attractions sen’s Oulundon Do Tae Kwstration Demon All Day . . . . . . . State Farm Coloring Contest & S. Windsor Park & Rec Moon Bounce 10:00 a.m. . . . . Exercise Walk led by Country 92.5 Wendy Steele and her dog Caleb 10:45 a.m. . . . . Contest – Best Costume 11:15 a.m. . . . . Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation obstacle course demonstration 11:35 p.m. . . . . Contest – Tail Wagger 12:00 p.m. . . . . Oulundsen’s Tae Kwon Do Demonstration 12:45 p.m. . . . . Contest – Best Trick 1:30 p.m. . . . . . Contest – Musical Sit 2:00 p.m. . . . . . DAWGS (K-9 search and rescue team)– Air scent dog demonstration 2:30 p.m. . . . . . Contest – Owner/Dog Look alike Visit www.swjaycees.org or contact Paul @860-573-6780 for info. Last years PAWS raised over $2,300 for Fidelco. 1st 40 0 gues DOGG ts receive IE B AG compli ments of Pet s Press Rotary Pavilion at Nevers Park • South Windsor 3 PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 4 P E T S P R E S S P E T S 5 P R E S S DOGS Continued from front cover Board ing & Pet S itting Boarding & Pet Sitting 860.436.2847 People often want to work on just the problem, they don’t want an overall "trained" dog. That’s not easy, since the root cause is a lack of relationship and communication. In other words, there are no other perceived problems but, by a trainer’s standards, there is not a solid foundation between owner (handler) and dog. A funny story: A client’s dog jumps all over me as I enter. She apologizes, saying that she has worked hard at it but her 12 year old son continues to play rough with the dog. She is pretty upset at having a dog that continues to get excited at the door. Eventually I get her to understand that she has had difficulty getting her son to comply, and he speaks English; how easy does she think it is for the dog to understand what she wants? I encourage my clients to work with what they have (given their own dog’s nature) to the degree that they can (given their own lives) and love what they get out of it. Our dogs do have minds of their own which may at times be at odds with ours, but they always give us their heart. ■ LEDGERPUBLICATIONS NRG Connecticut LLC Publisher Check out ou Web Cram s! We offer Boarding with ALL DAY PLAY! et your ad and g is th in Bring f daycare 1st day o ing FREE of board OR night Bring your d og to play for the day O R while your a way… A social place for your dog! Supervised group play in our large indoor & outdoor facility. We also offer pet sitting and mid-day walks! www.BradysDogDaycare.com 361 Pleasant Valley Rd., South Windsor, CT (Right off Rt. 5) ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Leslie Iarusso 800-286-6397 x3003 • leslie@ledgerpublications.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Steve Evans petsweb@ledgerpublications.com CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Tamara Sevigny petspress@yahoo.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: L. Vanessa Grude Marilyn Marks Gregory Simpson Donna Velardi ADVERTISING: David Rausch 800-286-6397 x3006 • david@ledgerpublications.com 993 North Main St. • West Hartford, CT 860-236-3273 • 860-236-7781 fax Jeffrey L. Berzon, DVM, ACVS Kimberly Maier, DVM Harlan C. Gustafson, DVM Steven S. Leshem, DVM Kenneth E. Knaack, DVM, ACVIM Deidre S. Galbo, DVM Mary Zee, BVetMed Donna Edelstein 800-286-6397 x3028 • donnae@ledgerpublications.com Suzanne Dunnell 860-324-7286 • wooz17@cox.net ZODIAPET DONNA VELARDI NATIONAL ADVERTISING: Debra Cohen 800-286-6397 x3015 • debrac@ledgerpublications.com PRODUCTION: Laura Michaud CIRCULATION: Hillary Pasternak 800-286-6397 x3004 • hillaryp@ledgerpublications.com WWW.PETSPRESS.NET Pets Press is published monthly and is available FREE at local businesses. Visit petspress.net for pickup locations in your area. For home delivery call 800-286-6397 x3004 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Animal Communication Animal Massage Therapy Astrology Numerology Psychic Readings Healing Therapies www.zodiapet.com P.O. Box 5326 ~ Hamden, CT 06518 (203) 387-ZPET (9738) ~ petastrologer@yahoo.com PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 IN PRAISE OF • PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 6 P E T S P R E S S • P E T S P R E S S • P E T S P R E S S • P E T S P R E S S HOW MUCH IS THAT DOGGIE IN THE WINDOW? F ar too many consumers find out the hard way that the cute little puppy they purchased at the local pet store is, in fact, very sick and in need of costly veterinary care from the moment they bring it home. And tragically, in spite of heroic and expensive efforts to save them, the puppies are often too ill to survive. The Westport Coalition against Puppy Mills is seeking volunteers to help launch a new service to assist consumers with complaints against pet stores and internet puppy suppliers. The Coalition is a concerned group of community volunteers who are committed to raising awareness about puppy mills, their inhumane treatment of dogs and the direct connection to local pet stores in Connecticut. The Coalition collects data and conducts research and is dedicated to educating consumers so they can make informed decisions regarding the health and welfare of the puppies they purchase. The Coalition is aware of approximately 100 cases in Connecticut where sick puppies have been purchased from local pet stores. Currently, there is no effective means for consumers to report these problems and there is no agency dedicated to handling complaints against pet store abuses. The data collected by the Coalition against Puppy Mills indicates that the problem is indeed widespread, yet current laws do little to protect consumers and puppies. The Connecticut "lemon law" for puppies is one of the weakest in the nation and allows for reimbursement of only $200 to consumers for veterinary bills but only if you return the puppy which most people won’t do. Yet consumers routinely spend thousands of dollars on veterinary care for the sick puppies they buy at pet stores. The Coalition is working on passage of two key legislative bills this session, SB 499 to strengthen the puppy lemon law and SB 856 to require pet shops to advertise the origin of the puppies they sell. Volunteers are needed to help ensure these bills pass to help puppies and the consumers that buy them. "It is clear that people with a sick puppy and mounting vet bills don’t know what to do," said Allison Allen, a founding member of the Coalition against Puppy Mills. "Consumers mistakenly assume that their situation is unique. They don’t understand that this is all too typical of puppies that have come from puppy mills and have been sold commercially at pet stores. Often pet owners are grief stricken and do nothing," said Ms. Allen. "Unfortunately, doing nothing enables the pet stores to continue to sell sick puppies to unsuspecting consumers." If you would like to volunteer or if you are have a problem with a puppy purchased at a pet store, contact the Coalition at 203-858-4194 or visit their website at savepuppymilldogs.com. ■ PETS PRESS NEWS BRIEFS FIRST ANNUAL DURHAM PET FAIR The First Annual Durham Pet Fair is jointly organized by Durham Veterinary Hospital and Help Willy's Friends. This event will be held at The Durham Veterinary Hospital, located at 178 Parmalee Hill Road on Sunday, May 17th from 11:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m. This family-oriented event will feature local merchants and adoptable pets. There will be Live Music, Wine Tasting and a Silent Auction as well as hot dogs, hamburgers, drinks and Free Kettle Korn. Children's activities will include a DJ, Face Painting, Touch-a-Truck, Fun House, a State Police K-9 Demonstration, a Pet Agility Course and much more. For those attendees that bring their pets, The Durham Veterinary Hospital will provide microchipping at a nominal fee of $35.00. We will also feature Free Nail Clipping, Free Pet Photos, Pet Reiki and a Pet Psychic! If you represent an animal shelter or a rescue organization and would like to be part of this Super Pet Adoption Day, please visit www.durhampetfair.com and complete the appropriate application form and respond no later than April 18th. Or please feel free to email them at willy@helpwillysfriends.org for more information. If you wish to make a donation to their cause, or donate an item to be auctioned at this event, please send us an email or refer to our website www.durhampetfair.com. ■ SECOND ACTS DONATES FUNDS TO RESCUE GROUPS IN ALL 50 STATES INITIAL GOAL ACHIEVED IN LESS THAN A YEAR Second Acts, a local non-profit fundraising organization that distributes 100% of all donations received to small, volunteer-run animal rescue groups nationwide, has achieved its initial goal of covering the entire United States following its incorporation in 2008. A majority of the fundraising was derived from the community and the organization’s participation at local fairs, festivals and farmer’s markets. "The response we have received from concerned citizens has been so supportive and enthusiastic," said Michael Brown, the Founder and CEO of Second Acts. "Those who are informed about animal rescue have generously donated everywhere our booth appears," he added. "And, we have also been able to educate members of the public who were not aware of what animal rescue groups do and how much the small ones need financial support." Since becoming a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, Brown and his Board of Directors have worked together to publicize the organization and have gathered support from celebrities, including Kathy Najimi ("King of the Hill"), Florence Henderson ("The Brady Bunch"), comedienne Carol Leifer, and Debra Bowen, California’s Secretary of State, among others. Additionally, Second Acts has entered into partnerships with corporate entities such as Amazon, Avon, and Ralphs, whereupon a percentage of each purchase is donated to the charity. "Our plans for this year are to increase awareness for Second Acts both within the community and across the country," Brown stated. "Now that we have accomplished our first goal of donating funds to one group in each state, we will go back and continue finding rescue organizations which fit within our mission, those being ones that are very small and run exclusively by volunteers." For more information about Second Acts, please visit www.secondactsfoundation.org. ■ 7 PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 Dog Walk, Dog Fair & 5k Race Walk for Chance , Race to Rescue Sunday May 31, 2009 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (rain (r or shine) Northwest Park, 145 Lang Road, Windsor CT Give dogs a chance. Net proceeds will benefit following organizations: • • • • Sunshine Golden Retriever Rescue Our Companions Animal Sanctuary Windsor Dog Park First Town 4-H Service Dog Project Special Guests Damon Scott 96.5 WTIC FM Debbie Wright Better CT TV Choose how you can help! 1) Walk the nature trails at Northwest Park Form a team and collect pledges (10:00AM registration, 11:00AM group walk) 2) Dog Pound: Lock up yourself or a friend – Choose the crime, pick a fine! Collect pledges to raise bail (10:00AM to 2:00PM) 3) RACE TO RESCUE - 5K Cross County Race at Northwest Park – Collect pledges from friends and sponsors and help raise funds. (8:00AM registration, 9:00AM race) 4) Enjoy the fair: Entertainment, Vendors, Contests, Auction & Raffle Bring the Family! Bring the Dog! For more information, visit www.DogWalk.org PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 8 Sheltering an Animal’s Perspective by Gregory M. Simpson I ® ® . ay St zy Co . ay D l Playfu Now booking : ions Summer vacat ie Condos Luxury Suites and Dogg Doggie Daycare or 11,000 sq. ft. Indoor/Outdo Astroturf Outdoor Playground with 0 est Hartford 0611 W , et re St cy ar D 37 (next to Home Depot) m (860) 882-1711 www.planetbark.co QUALITY, COMPASSIONATE VETERINARY CARE Shannon Bertolino, DVM, MS Tanya Battiston, DVM When You Join Our Practice… You Join Our Family Voted st Be Animal Hospital in the Valley 2007 Star Meadow Animal Clinic Comprehensive Medical, Surgical & Dental Care Including Preventive Medicine MEDICALLY SUPERVISED BOARDING Convenient Day, Evening & Saturday Hours Available NEW PATIENTS WELCOME FARMINGTON 677-4638 1073 FARMINGTON AVE. (RTE. 4) (Rte 4,Across from Tunxis Driving Range) Convenient Day, Evening & Saturday Hours Monday-Friday 8am-6pm Saturday 8am-1pm www.StarMeadow.com t seems to me that all the talk about dangerous dog breeds should not be about "bad" breeds, but about irresponsible people. Just as with raising children, there is both Gregory Simpson "nature" and "nurture" to consider. Through the centuries, some dogs were bred as war dogs, others for the hunting of dangerous game, and still others for fights against a variety of animals, including other dogs, bears, lions, rats, badgers, monkeys, opossums, pigs, horses, donkeys, and even man. Although there may be dog breeds known for displaying dominance aggression, canine behaviorists agree that this type of aggression is potentially found in all breeds. Dog aggression is more the result of a human behavior problem than a canine one. Dangerous behavior in dogs often comes from the ignorance of breeders and owners. Breeders may deliberately or unknowingly breed unsound and unstable temperament, thus perpetuating what should have disappeared from the gene pool. Furthermore, fear and anxiety – not dominance - are the greatest causes of dog aggression directed at other dogs and people. To experience rare problem behavior, the breeding, raising, living and training conditions of the breeder and owner must be consonant with knowledge of canines as a species (for instance, there are over 50 possible medical reasons for canine aggression), with the dog breed (the breed standard usually spells out whether dog aggression is common in the breed and to what degree it is allowed), and the individual dog, in particular. This is true for all dog breeds. When owners are not aware of the above points, statistics show that the vast majority (77%) of biting dogs belong to the victim’s family or friends. With all the concern about which breed is the most dangerous, it has to be noted that any dog that is treated harshly or trained to attack, may bite a person. Any dog can be made into a dangerous dog. It is the owner or handler who is most responsible for making a dog into something dangerous. Any dog may be a loving companion although its breed may be considered potentially dangerous. As with any relationship, the love and respect of a dog must be won. Ultimately, one cannot look at an individual dog, identify its breed, and then state whether it is going to attack. For from 1979 to 1998, at least 25 breeds of dogs have been involved in bite related deaths. Consider these other statistics – all caused by people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that a chained dog is 2.8 times more likely to bite than an unchained dog. Canines not spayed or neutered are three times more likely to bite than sterilized ones (70% of all dog bites involve unneutered males). Of the 27 people who died as a result of dog bite attacks in 1997 and 1998, 67% involved unrestrained dogs on the owner’s property. Another 19% involved unrestrained dogs off the owner’s property. In other words, dogs that are licensed with an identifiable owner are implicated in the vast majority of dog bites, as compared with stray dogs. Furthermore, the greater number of children and dogs in a household, the higher likelihood of bites occurring. A 2001 New York Times article reported that 40% of owners acquired the dog primarily for protection. As the saying goes, "Be careful what you wish for." Obedience training school is one way of effectively preventing many dog bites. Owners should also find time for day-today instruction between themselves and their dogs. Busy lifestyles are a major reason for the rise of aggression related attacks. As Americans work more hours, dog caring responsibilities slip, resulting in mild or stronger neglect. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) informs, "There is no evidence that breedspecific laws" (those that either regulate or ban a certain breed of dog) "which are costly and difficult to enforce – make communities safer for families or for the companion animals that are part of so many households." What the ASPCA recommends instead is: 1) enhanced enforcement of dog license laws and leash/dogat-large laws; 2) dangerous dog laws that are breed-neutral and focus on the behavior of the individual dog; 3) laws that hold dog owners financially accountable for failure to adhere to animal control laws; 4) laws that prohibit chaining or tethering; and 5) laws that mandate the sterilization of shelter animals. Note that no dog breed was named in this column. That’s because the message is about irresponsible people, not ‘bad" breeds. There is no such thing as a bad breed. For the animals, Gregory M. Simpson Gregory Simpson’s animal welfare involvement spans over 25 years, having provided leadership for several Connecticut organizations, as well as having served as state advisor to the national Friends of Animals. Currently a Board member of Protectors of Animals, Inc., he was chosen by CAT FANCY magazine as one of the ultimate cat lovers in the U.S. He is also a member of the Cat Writers’ Association. 9 PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 PAWS Promenade ON THE SATURDAY, May 16th 11:00 am - 4:00 pm IN THE VILLAGE GREEN (NEAR STARBUCKS) Complimentary Pet Psychic Readings with Animal Communicator, Donna Velardi, as seen in Connecticut Magazine Look-a-Like Contest - Do you have a striking resemblance to your Pet? Register in the Village Green at the Look-a-Like Contest booth. The winner will receive a $100.00 Center-Wide Gift Card from The Promenade Shops at Evergreen Walk! Winner will be notified by email on Monday, May 18, 2009. Entries will be accepted from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Need not be present to win. Must be 18 years or older to enter or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Meet and Greet Damon Scott of 96.5 TIC-FM He will be our event host from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Stop by the 96.5 TIC-FM booth for your chance to win some great prizes! Meet and Greet Officer Tina Mazzoccoli and K-9 Bobby of South Windsor’s Canine Unit. Pictures with Your Pet • sponsored by Powerstation Events Take home a keepsake photo of your Pet for a donation of $10.00 to the South Windsor Canine Fund. Pet Caricatures “Sit” for a caricature with your Pet for a donation of $10.00 to the South Windsor Canine Fund. Visit the Mystic Aquarium booth for fun and information on how you can help some other special friends! For more information, please call 860-432-3398 or visit www.thepromenadeshopsatevergreenwalk.com I-84 TO EXIT 62 • SOUTH WINDSOR PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 10 CT Pet Pros is a group of pet business entrepreneurs who have formed a networking organization to serve the needs of pets and their families in West Hartford and the Farmington Valley. For more information about CT Pet Pros, contact mstansel@doodycalls.com. Dog Lover, I will love your pet as much as you do. Dog walking and in-home care of any pet available 7 days a week. Fully insured. 10% OFF 1st Time Clients w/this coupon Got Poop? We’ll Scoop! Friendly, affordable, and reliable service Expires 5/31/09 Melissa Zachariah (860)478-2045 (860)233-7120 Gzacha@aol.com $23 OFF Pet Waste Removal your 1st month of service www.DoodyCalls.com • 1.800.DoodyCalls (366.3922) Dog Days of West Hartford Tired of rushing home to let the dog out? 233-2800 DOG WALKING • PET SITTING • PLAYGROUPS Pets & People (860) 982-9323 FREE 8 x 10 or wallet size with Wall Portrait www.dogdaysonline.com Bob Duncan, Owner • Fully bonded & insured Come join us… and become a PetPro! Our next meeting is May 13. For more information contact Martha Stansel at mstansel@doodycalls.com or 860-747-5344 860-379-4444 www.petstop.com • Rated #1 in Customer Service • Veterinarian Recommended • U.S.A. Manufactured • GentleSteps™ Training • We do cats! • We service All Brands • Compatible with most brands • Lifetime Warranties • Containment Guarantee P E T S P R E S S irds build their nests from early spring through the summer in which to lay their eggs. Many bird species live and raise their young in tree cavities while others weave nests in tree branches, in reeds and bushes. However, if cavity-nesters are not able to find natural nesting locations, many species will willingly adopt man-made bird houses, also known as nest boxes. According to Milan Bull, Connecticut Audubon Society Senior Director of Science and Conservation now is the perfect time to purchase a bird house and get it up and ready for inspection. "March is the traditional time to clean out your bird houses and replace the damaged ones. It is a great time to relocate unproductive boxes and try new ones." Bull says. Nesting birds prefer homes that conform to their ideal living space with an entry hole large enough for the bird to enter but small enough to stop larger birds and predators from taking over the nest. Most common hole-nesting birds can use an entrance hole 1 1⁄2 inches in diameter. The inside dimensions of the box are P E T S P R E S S • P E T S GUIDE TO BIRD HOUSES important as well and should be at least 4 inches by 4 inches so that there is room for the young to develop. The distance from the bottom of the entrance hole to the floor of the box should be at least 5 inches. This enables the developing young to remain well down in the box and away from predators. The bird house should have holes or slits to let hot air out and drainage holes to allow any water to drain out of the box. If there is a front landing perch on the bird house, it should be removed. Front landing perches give predators an unfair advantage when raiding nests. It is important to be able to open the nesting box, so that the box can be cleaned out at the end of the season. Bird houses should face away from spring and summer prevailing winds. House Wrens refer their boxes placed near a tree or bush so that parent birds may land for a few minutes to For a visit to AGED 8 & UP… LESSON PACKAGES AVAILABLE! • CONNECTICUT AUDUBON SOCIETY’S SADDLE UP! ATTENTION RIDERS P R E S S Ray of Light Farm, Inc. P E T S survey the area for safety before they proceed into the house. At times birds will sit outside the bird house watching the area for danger from which to defend the bird house. Bluebirds prefer their boxes on baffled poles about five or six feet off the ground in a grassy environment well away from bushes and shrubs. With a little luck, a pair of birds may occupy a bird house within hours of the time it was put it up. However, it may take up to several weeks, months, or even years before a pair of birds chooses to occupy the bird house. If a bird house has not been used after a year, try moving it to a different location. Bird houses can help in maintaining populations of many birds at healthy levels. A single wooden bird house can have a long life – ten years is ordinary, and such a house may fledge 50 birds during that time. Knowledgeable staff at the Connecticut Audubon Society is available to offer guidance on bird house selection and placement as well as bird seed choices. ■ SAVE A BUCK TACK STORE’S AMAZING SALE (thru May 31 ) st a non-profit 501(c)3 public charity Devoted to animal rescue and animal-assisted therapy – a place where people and animals meet! Hours of Operation: Farm: 10 am – 3 pm daily, closed Wed. Tack Store: 10 am – 5 pm daily, closed Wed. Pony Rides: 11 am – 2 pm, Thurs. thru Sun. P R E S S Save-A-Buck Tack Store 30% OFF Brand-Name Outerwear* 25% OFF Gloves, Helmets, Crops & Halters* Affordably-priced Ariat Boots & Apparel* 20% OFF Breyer Horses & Schleich Animals, Knights, Only Hearts Club, Bella Sara and More*! *In-stock Items Only 232 Town St., East Haddam 860-873-1895 www.rayoflightfarm.org / www.save-a-bucktack.com 11 PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 B • PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 12 Celebrating over 30 years of quality service in the Farmington Valley • Dog, Cat and Exotic Pet Boarding • Luxury Suites • Cat Condos and Apartments • Doggy Daycare Play Groups • All Breed Dog and Cat Grooming • Obedience Classes and Private Lessons • Boarding and Training Packages • Veterinary Hospital on Premises 60 Lovely Street Canton, CT 06019 860-693-0603 WWW.ROARINGBROOKPET.COM Do you want your pet's doctor to care as much as you do? Providing comprehensive medical and surgical care for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, rabbits, ferrets and small exotic mammals. Chiropractic care for dogs, cats and horses. Peter Berk, DVM • David Staudacher, VMD Coby van der Giessen, DVM • Candace Hersey-Benner, DVM Medically supervised boarding available. NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. 60 Lovely Street Canton, CT 06019 860-693-0214 P E T S P R E S S • P E T S P R E S S • P E T S P R E S S • P E T S P R E S S PETCO FOUNDATION FUNDS CHANGE LIVES IN NORTH HAVEN TOP TOYS for Ferrets By L. Vanessa Grude, Ferret Association of Connecticut, Inc., www.ferret-fact.org F errets have a fun-loving, inquisitive nature that needs stimulation and activity. A variety of toys can help keep your ferret busy and healthy. A ferret can turn almost anything into a toy – your shoe, purse, or favorite fig tree – so it’s a good idea to give them playthings that are specifically theirs. Each ferret is an individual, so what one loves may leave another indifferent, but here are items popular with most. TUBES Ferrets were bred to hunt rodents and rabbits into their dens, so any tube is something to be investigated. Two ferrets will happily chase each other over and through a tube. Make sure the tube is large enough – 4+ inches is best. Tubes can be found in pet stores or you can cut down plastic drain pipe from a home improvement center. NOBBY WOBBY™ This toy consists of hard rubber tubes twisted into a ball. They come in different sizes and some have bells inside. Easy to pick up and carry, but resistant to chewing, the smaller sizes are perfect for ferrets and will be carried off to special hiding places. Similar, but not quite as popular, are small Kong™ toys. Be careful with generic or knock-off versions, as the rubber quality may not be as good as the name brands. PING PONG BALLS For young and energetic ferrets, a ping pong ball is an opportunity for a vigorous game of chase. Many stores sell inexpensive plastic balls containing bells for cats, birds, and ferrets that are a similar size, but these do break easily. PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS If we ever ban plastic shopping bags, ferrets will mourn! Whether it’s the enticing scents inside, the crinkly noise, or the chance to explore a toy that moves as they play inside, grocery bags can’t be beat. If you’re nervous about potential injuries, cut the handles and use a paper punch to make a few air holes. Paper bags are can also be used, or you can purchase "crinkle sacks" covered in fabric at pet outlets. SQUEAK TOYS Many ferrets enjoy rubbery squeak toys, but be careful to check their quality. A built in, as opposed to a separate squeaker, is safer, and always monitor rubbery items. If chewing is destroying any part, discard it. A few ferrets HATE squeaking sounds, so discontinue use if they seem upsetting. PLUSH TOYS Many ferrets love to chase and carry small plush items, especially balls. Keep an eye out for small parts such as noses, ears, etc., that might be chewed. Avoid toys stuffed with plastic beads that might be ingested if broken open. Ferrets especially enjoy plush items with bells or rattles inside. PetStages™ makes a terrific line of pet toys. Human baby toys are also a wonderful option. Baby toys are manufactured to government standards, are usually washable, and come in an array of fun styles. Many have rattles, crinkly insides, and/or chewsafe rubber teethers. FISHING POLE TOYS These are great for interactive play with your pets – especially if your ferret has more energy than you do! Again, check for quality; if the enclosed hang toy doesn’t seem safe or gets mutilated, it can easily be replaced. All toys should be regularly cleaned. This gives you an opportunity to check them over for any rips or chewed parts that could become dangerous. Keep two sets of toys and switch them – your ferret will think the clean toys are brand new. Always remember that YOU are your ferret’s favorite playmate. Toss that ball, play tug with a stuffed animal, and you and your pet will both have loads of fun. ■ The year begins on a high note for thousands of animal shelters nationwide, including The Animal Haven of North Haven, CT that received a donation from the 2008 Tree of Hope fundraiser, hosted by PETCO and the PETCO Foundation. The six-week campaign generated $3 million in donations from the company’s customers, vendors and associates. This year, The Animal Haven received funds donated at PETCO, 390 Universal Drive in North Haven, CT. The proceeds from Tree of Hope 2008 will be used by The Animal Haven to help enter adoptable homeless cats and dogs from the Greater New Haven community. "The Animal Haven sincerely appreciates the generosity of PETCO in North Haven and the PETCO Foundation. The Animal Haven has been serving the people and pets in this area for over 61 years and this donation will be used to help animals in need of shelter, food and love", said Liz Gallagher, President of the Board. "We are very grateful to everyone who contributed and hope they all know they helped to make this world a kinder, safer, and happier place for the animals so near to our hearts," said PETCO vice president and foundation executive director Paul Jolly. "Tree of Hope has not only helped sustain the lives of animals in need, but also helped nourish the spirit of hope that defines the PETCO Foundation." To get the latest news on anything and everything PETCO – from updates about the company to incredible acts of animal kindness, visit the company’s blog at www.petconews.com. The Animal Haven, Inc. is a private nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservations and placement of homeless companion animals. Its mission is to provide a safe, caring and humane refuge for unwanted adoptable animals, & to insure quality adoptive homes. Our mission advocates responsible pet ownership, mandatory spay/neuter policies, non-euthanization & the abolishment of animal cruelty through education. The Animal Haven promotes public involvement for the humane treatment of animals, & is committed to principles of justice and compassion for all animals. For over 60 years, The Animal Haven has been celebrating the special friendship between people & their blessed animal companions. ■ PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 NEWS BRIEF 13 ASTROLOGY FOR PETS MAY 2009 HOROSCOPE PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 14 KITTENS, KITTENS and more KITTENS! Protectors of Animals Cat Adoption Center OVER 100 KITTENS NEED HOMES! All shapes, sizes and colors! Vet checked, spayed or neutered and given age appropriate shots. 144 Main St., East Hartford, CT • (860) 569-0722 • www.poainc.org THERAPY DOG TRAINING CLASSES NOW FORMING Bloomfield, Manchester, Willington ❤ Sponsored by Tails of Joy, Inc., Animal Assisted Therapy Volunteering with your dog is a heart warming experience! Pet Partners Affiliate Group Contact Sue Gagnon, 860-487-0001 or smgagnon@charter.net www.TailsofJoy.org Finally! New England’s first large-scale sanctuary and rescue center is coming! Our Companions Domestic Animal Sanctuary is a leader in the movement to end the unnecessary euthanasia of pets. Learn more about Our Companions’ many program and services. No Pet Should Ever Be Homeless. TAKE THE TOUR & LEARN MORE! Domestic Animal Sanctuary Take the virtual tour of the sanctuary, visit www.OurCompanions.org phone 860.242.9999 By Donna Velardi www.zodiapet.com 203-387-9738 (ZPET) O ne of the most beautiful months of the year! Take time and enjoy this month with your pet. With that being said Mercury is in retrograde for the most part of May. From May 7th through the 30th you can experience communication problems with everyone you come in contact with, so make sure you read over legal documents very carefully. However, on the positive side we can use this time to adjust our thoughts, attitudes and decisions for the better. ARIES (The Ram) March 21 – April 19: Pay attention to your pet’s body language and their vocal communication. They are trying to tell you something important, their perception may be a bit exaggerated but none the less significant. Make sure they get their vitamins as they might not be feeling their best this month. TAURUS (The Bull) April 20 – May 21: Your Taurus is very supportive of you during the next 30 days. During this beautiful spring time try to take some time off from work to bond with your pet. Go for a drive or just enjoy your special time together.You will be rewarded with love and affection all month long! GEMINI (The Twins) May 22 – June 21: Your Gemini pet needs and wants lots of praise and compliments this month. The creativity really flows and don’t be surprised if you learn new and different things about your furry friend. Just be careful, as communication can get misinterpreted; just make sure that your pet knows just how much you care for them, which they never get tired of hearing. CANCER (The Crab) June 22 – July 22: Your Cancer pet will become very lively and have bursts of energy during the next 30 days. They will be concentrating on what is important to them. However, they will still be very loving, caring and sympathetic. Just be aware that your Cancer pet is influenced by Mercury Retrograde. Take the time and make sure everything is explained to your pet in detail. LEO (The Lion) July 23 – August 22: Your Leo pet wants and expects extra treats during the next 30 days! Indulge them and you will be rewarded with lots of affection. They will also be exceptionally happy and their happiness will be very contagious to all those around them. So if any family member is feeling blue, just have them spend time with your pet to snap them out of it. VIRGO (The Virgin) August 23 – September 22: Your Virgo pet will be full of fun and adventure. They will want to experience new and different activities and will not show much fear. Allow them to gain confidence in themselves and promote their self-esteem. This will benefit their psyche in the long run. They are really focusing in on the positive. Enjoy it while you can! LIBRA (The Scales) September 23 – October 22: Your Libra pet will be full of vigor this month. They will feel that they can conquer the world! When the rest of the world is having trouble making decisions during Mercury Retrograde, the Libra appears to be making them without difficulty. Trust your pet’s instincts. Your Libra pet is especially attracted to Aries and Aquarius during the next 30 days. SCORPIO (The Scorpion) October 23 – November 21: With Mercury in retrograde your Scorpio pet will be less sociable. Communication is also strained during this time; they will have trouble truly comprehending what you are trying to explain to them. Remember to be patient. If you are able to spend some time outdoors or let the springtime air into the home for the indoor pets, this will help make them happy. SAGITTARIUS (The Archer) November 22 – December 21: Your Sagittarian pet will be very charming during the next 30 days, and they will have you wrapped around their little paw. They will have a sprit of adventure that will be hard to satisfy. Again, with Mercury in retrograde communication can be an issue, just make sure they know YOU are the Alpha. CAPRICORN (The Goat) December 22 – January 19: With Mercury in retrograde this is not the time to start anything new. Keep to the routines you already have in place. Most importantly make sure your Capricorn is fed on time, if not it could get ugly and you will most definitely hear about it. Spend some alone time with your pet this will reassure them that life is good and you return will really feel their love for you! AQUARIUS (The Water Bearer) January 20 – February 19: Your Aquarian pet will be a homebody during the next 30 days and also on the lazy side. Don’t push them because as Mercury Retrograde passes so will this. Your personality alone will keep your pet amused, this month you can do no wrong. Enjoy this time! PISCES (The Fish) February 20 – March 20: Your Pisces pet will be wearing their thoughts and feelings on their sleeve. You will not have to guess what they are thinking or feeling. Even through Mercury Retrograde your pet will be very communicative. Really listen to them, after all they just want to make you happy, return the favor, you won’t regret it! (If you don’t know your pet’s astrological sign please email me at petastrologer@yahoo.com and I will forward you a questionnaire to fill out and return to me. I will then email you your pet’s astrological sign. Please mention that you saw this in Pets Press and the $5 fee for this service will be waived.) 15 PETS PRESS Ask The Cat Lady! ?\ii\X[`e^ËjdlZ_ `dgifm\[j`eZ\@jkXik\[ nfib`e^n`k__\i PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 ASK THE EXPERTS! DOGGY D AY C P G AM ES M BOARDING RAINING T Dear Susan, I did a google search and the reaction Juno is not unusual – sort of like catnip – here's a somewhat scientific explanation that I found: "Both green olives (Olea europaea) and Pimentos (Capsicum annuum) contain isoprenoids that are structurally similar to the methylcyclopentane monoterpene nepetalactone, which is responsible for binding to receptors in your cat's vomeronasal organ and consequently the mind-altering effect your cat experiences. "These compounds are not unusual, although the configuration varies widely between plant species. "These compounds resemble pheromones, and as such some of them function as a natural mock-pheromone pest repellents for the plant, which is likely how such high levels of these constituents within a plants' essential oils evolved. "The vomeronasal organ is what your cat (and most other animals with the exception of humans, although there is a small indented area and partial nerve channel where it would be, left over from our evolution) uses to sense pheromones, and is where the nepetalactone in catnip stimulates pheromone receptors resulting in space-kitty. "Summary - it is likely that either the green olives or pimentos have a chemical in their essential oil that is similar enough to the active chemical in catnip to have a similar effect on the same receptors in the part of kitty's nose that are responsible for catnip getting her high." There appears to be no toxicity (someone mentioned diarrhea, but I would go easy simply for the addiction factor. Use pitted olives, of course. It doesn’t sound as if anything is lacking in Juno’s diet though I always suggest serving a variety of foods to prevent boredom. Just out of curiosity, I bought some green olives and black olives to test on my own cats. Alas, they all gave me that "Where’s the meat?" look. Like catnip some cats may react and others may not. Juno definitely enjoys his olives! Sally O NG MI O B Dear Sally, I have a question about cat nutrition. My (almost) 2-year-old cat Juno steals kalamata olives. Not only does he steal them, he will scream and beg for them if he sees me eating them or smells them in the room. He'll gnaw on my fingers if he knows I've held one. This is a normally very composed furry gentleman. Once Juno secures an olive he literally goes wild - he shakes with excitement and devours the olive in an ecstatic frenzy. I've never witnessed such behavior. Days after consuming an olive and with a wistful look on his face, Juno will even lick the floor where it once was. Is my kitty missing an essential nutrient in his diet? Juno receives three of the smaller-sized cans of Wellness brand wet food or portions of their larger canned Core wet food per day, supplemented with a tiny bit of Wellness dry food overnight (less than a quarter cup - and even this will take him a month to finish because he prefers wet). He has a Drinkwell brand fountain, which is always on and clean, as well as fresh tap water placed in a still dish daily. We keep a steady crop of cat grass available, and he gets Wellness brand jerky treats about once a month, for fun. Should I give him olives, or refrain? What could be driving this obsession of his? Susan R Sally Bahner is a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and has a private feline consulting practice. She is the "Dear Sally" on Tracie Hotchner’s Cat Chat Radio (www.catchatradio.com), found on Sirius, the Martha Stewart Living channel. She is a longtime editor and writer on everything feline. TF R IE NDSPET E CAR .C O @kËj9\jkKfJkXpN`k_=i`\e[j JD 9fXi[Xk9\jk=i`\e[j=fiCfm\# =leXe[9\[k`d\Jkfi`\j (,((J`cXj;\Xe\?`^_nXpIfZbp?`cc/-' .)($/'/' -'?Xii`jIfX[8mfe/-' -.*$',,, )).:_\j_`i\IfX[9\k_Xep)'* *0*$*()- ,)/DX`e8m\el\EfinXcb)'* /+0$('(' 8jbXYflkfliXZk`fe$gXZb\[MXcl\GXZbX^\jf]\e^X^`e^[f^^pXZk`m`k`\j ,WµV$%UDQG 1HZ'D\ $FWXDOO\1LJKW The Farmington Valley Veterinary Emergency Hospital is now a proud member of the BrightHeart Veterinary Network, the national network of advanced care hospitals dedicated to a simple, powerful creed: HIGHEST STANDARDS. EXCEPTIONAL CARE. HEALTHIER PETS. As always, we are open for complete, state-of-the-art emergency care when other veterinary facilities are closed, including weekday night, weekend and holiday care. Remember, in an emergency, always call your veterinarian FIRST! Hours of Operation: Weeknights: 5:30pm until 8am the following day Weekends: Friday 5:30pm until Monday 8am Open 24 hours on the following Holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas )DUPLQJWRQ9DOOH\ 9HWHULQDU\(PHUJHQF\+RVSLWDO $0HPEHURIWKH%ULJKW+HDUW9HWHULQDU\1HWZRUN $YRQZRRG5RDG$YRQ&7 16 PETS PRESS PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 ASK THE EXPERTS! Reptile Man! Ron Wulff, the Reptile Man, has worked for one of the big retail pet stores for 6 years as a reptile and aquatic specialist. He rescues reptiles and runs www.nopaws.com, dedicating his time to educate people on exotic pets. Direct your exotic pet questions to Reptile Man. Dear Ron, My husband bought our son a green anole lizard for a pet. It moves fast, so my son doesn't handle it at all. The only time we handle it is when we catch it to clean the cage. I am afraid it is going to bite me. My husband said they don't even have teeth. He said if I can prove they do, that he will clean the cage. Can you help me? Jill Call the Good Dog Spot at 860.243.5500 Dear Jill, First let me thank Jill for an easy to answer question. As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words and the lizards teeth can clearly be seen in this one. Although they are too small to break the skin on most adults, if they got a hold of a small enough finger they might draw blood. It is just as easy to capture the lizard in a small cup for cage cleaning. While some questions can be answered in words or photos, there might be some situations where it would be much easier to solve an animal problem in person. With that thought in mind I will be at the Newington Petco every Saturday from 9am to 12pm to answer reptile questions, offer suggestions on products and evaluate your animal’s condition. However, questions are still welcome here. Ron Pet Accidents On Your Carpet? Steam Cleaning helps eliminate odors & sanitizes 2 $ Rooms 66 95 Mention Pets Press & Get 10% Off 4 Rooms $ & Hall 99 95 Better Carpet Cleaning 860.632.1667 • 800.325.3794 Guinea Pig Expert! Whitney Potsus has owned guinea pigs for nearly a decade. She is Vice President of The Critter Connection, Inc., a Durham-based non-profit dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of abandoned and neglected guinea pigs. You can find the rescue on the Web at www.ctguineapigrescue.org. Please direct all your Guinea Pig questions to Whitney. PETS PRESS Ask the Vet! Lauren Mascola is the veterinarian at Petcare Veterinary Services in West Hartford. She studied at UConn for undergraduate and Tufts for Veterinary Medicine. She has over 10 years experience and 2 dogs and 3 cats of her own. She is excited to answer your questions! Dear Dr. Mascola, My 14 year old dog has been getting "lost" lately. He will pace around and end up in a corner and seem stuck there until I help him. Is this just due to his age or can there be something else wrong? Thanks, Kathryn Dear Kathryn, Thanks for the question. I would recommend having your dog seen at the veterinarian to make sure there is nothing physically wrong. If they cannot find anything wrong, this behavior may be due to age and can be seen as a component of Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (Doggie Alzheimer's). Besides pacing and getting "lost", you might also see inappropriate bathroom habits, barking or other vocalization for no reason or a change in appetite or sleep patterns. Some dogs may also stop seeking human companionship or greeting their owner when they get home. There is a drug labeled specifically for CDS, and I will usually recommend a trial on it for patients where I suspect the disease. It works temporarily in some cases but may not have any affect in others. Good Luck, Dr. Mascola "I can guide you toward solutions that will help you achieve health and harmony in your feline household." NUTRITION QUESTIONS? OUT-OF-LITTERBOX EXPERIENCES AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR? Sally E. Bahner -Feline Consultant Member, International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants Consultations available in person, by phone or via e-mail. For more information and a free brochure, call 203-488-3495 or e-mail sebahner@snet.net. www.whosyourdoggietraining.com The Bunny Expert! Susan adopted her first house rabbit 5 years ago and soon after got highly involved in rabbit rescue. She has volunteered at a local rabbit rescue group and a local animal shelter working with rabbits. She has since cofounded 3 Bunnies Rabbit Rescue Inc. Susan can surely answer all of your rabbit questions! "Companion Dog Training That Works" WHO’S YOUR DOGGIE ? Training Behavioral Modification Ask the Lazi Birds! Steve and Diane Lazicki have been rescuing and working with birds for over 8 years, as well as raising them as pets since childhood. They live with over 150 birds in their "bird house," so they have a wealth of bird expertise. Direct your bird related questions to the Lazi Birds. Aggression Dog Walking Pet Sitting Housebreaking Grooming Melissa If you have a question for our experts, contact Tamara Sevigny at petspress@yahoo.com or mail her at P.O. Box 579, Old Lyme, CT 06371 203.496.9331 PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 ASK THE EXPERTS! 17 PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 18 PETS PRESS CALENDAR ◆ April 17 – East Windsor - Connecticut Valley Vizsla Club AKC Field Trials. Flaherty Field Trial Area, Dearborn Tract. For additional information contact: Deb Malachowski, Event Secretary, 401-480-6432, dmalachowski@verizon.net. ◆ April 25 & 26 - Wolcott - Southern New England Brittany Club AKC Hunting Trials. Bristol Fish & Game, Beecher Lane. For additional information contact: Kristina Wittchen, Event Secretary, 860-519-8003, herenorthere@lycos.com, www.snebc.org. ◆ April 17-19 – S Glastonbury - Horse Show. Pines Farm, 860-633-5694. ◆ April 26 - Morris - Horse Show, 8am. Fox Crossing Equestrian Center, 860-567-1788. ◆ April 18 – Bloomfield - Fidelco Open House, 10:30am-2:30pm. 103 Old Iron Ore Road, 860243-4801, www.fidelco.org. ◆ April 18 - Enfield - Our Companions Adoption Information. Petco, 25 Hazard Ave., 860-745-7671. Our Companions, 860-2429999, www.ourcompanions.org. ◆ April 18 – Gales Ferry - Dressage Show, (USDF, USEF, CHSA Rated). Mystic Valley Hunt Club, 645 Long Cove Rd., www.mysticvalleyhuntclub.com. ◆ April 18 – Greenwich - Greyhound Rescue & Rehab Meet & Greet, 12-3pm. Pet Pantry, 290 Railroad Ave. 203-869-6444, www.greyhoundrescuerehab.org. ◆ April 18-19 - Morris - Joe Fargis Clinic. Far Meadow Farm, 860-567-9850. ◆ April 18 - New Haven - Adoption event by The Friends of the New Haven Animal Shelter with the North Shore Animal League. IKEA, 450 Sargent Drive, nsal100@yahoo.com, www.findafriendforlife.org or www.nsalamerica.org. ◆ April 18 - New Haven - Tour for Life 2009, Adopt-A-Dog, 11am-3pm. Adopt-A-Dog's Shelter, 914-273-1674, www.adopt-a-dog.org. ◆ April 18 – Rocky Hill - Paws for the Park Pasta Dinner Dance, 6pm. St. James Church Hall, Elm St. Benefits Rocky hill dog park, 860-258-2772. ◆ April 18 – Southbury - Greyhound Rescue & Rehab Meet & Greet, 10am-2pm. Petland Discounts, Southbury Green Shopping Center, 775 Main Street South, 203-267-7333. www.greyhoundrescuerehab.org. ◆ April 18 – Washington - Volunteer Day at Horse of Connecticut. 9am-4pm, Rain date April 19. Clean-up, fixing fences, barns, grooming, walking horses, mucking. Lunch provided. 43 Wilbur Rd., 860-868-1960, www.horseofct.org. ◆ April 18-19 – Westbrook - April Jumper Show (USEF, M&S). Westbrook Hunt Club, 319 Pond Meadow Rd., 860-399-6317. ◆ April 19 - Plainville - We Adopt Greyhounds, Inc. Meet & Greet, 2pm-4pm. Petsmart, 278 New Britain Ave, 860-747-9399. WAG, 877595-0991, www.weadoptgreyhounds.org. View the calendar of events online! W W W . P E T S P R E S S . N E T ◆ April 19 – Suffield - CDCTA Schooling Dressage & Combined Test. Wishing Rock Farm, 3942 Phelps Rd., 860-487-0130, www.wishingrockfarm.com. ◆ April 25 & 26 - Clinton - Spring Aviary Tours, 1-4pm. Wind Over Wings, 22 Old Road, 203-263-6644, www.windoverwings.org. ◆ April 20 – Manchester - Family Fun Night benefits MDOG, 5-8pm. The Shoppes at Buckland Hills. www.theshoppesatbucklandhills.com, www.mdgoct.com. ◆ April 25 – Danbury - Greyhound Rescue & Rehab Meet & Greet, 12-2pm. Choice Pets, Berkshire Shopping Center, 67 Newtown Rd., 203-792-5800, www.greyhoundrescuerehab.org. ◆ April 20-24 - Simsbury - Spring Riding Fun. Well-Away Farm, 100 Old Farms Rd., 860-6517284. ◆ April 20, 21, 23 - Southbury - Boston Terrier Club of Connecticut, Inc. AKC Confirmation, Obedience, Agility & Rally. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 1284 Strongtown Rd. For additional information contact: Alice Smith, Event Secretary, 978-3565693, www.bostonterrierclubct.com. ◆ April 22 – Essex - Wind Over Wings, Birds of Prey Demonstration, 7pm. Essex Town Hall, sponsored by Essex Land Trust. Wind Over Wings, 860-669-4004, www.windoverwings.org. ◆ April 22 – North Haven - Pandora Jewelry Fundraiser for Animal Haven, 6:30-8pm. 32C Middletown Avenue, 203-624-0525. ◆ April 23-25 - Westbrook - 18th Annual Spring Fling Horse Show. Westbrook Hunt Club, 319 Pond Meadow Rd., 860-399-6317. ◆ April 24-26 - Orange - World Class Barrel Racing Clinic with Kelly Kaminski, Latella & Sons. 203-410-4928, 203-410-4930. ◆ April 25, May 9, 16 - Avon - Our Companions adoption information event. Petco, 9 West Avon Road, 860-404-8880. Our Companions, 860-242-9999, www.ourcompanions.org. ◆ April 25 – from Branford - Trip to the Mohegan Sun Casino sponsored by The Greater New Haven Cat Project, Inc. Bus departs 4pm. 203-782-CATS. ◆ April 25 – Hartford - Ferret Treasures Store Sale, 11am-3pm. FACT, Inc., 14 Sherbrooke Avenue. Ferret Association of Connecticut, Inc., 860-247-1275, www.ferret-fact.org. ◆ April 25 - Ledyard - Regional FFA Open Horse Show, 9am. Ledyard Fairgrounds, 860464-9600 ext. 127. ◆ April 25 – Manchester - Mt. Nebo: Spring for the Dog Park benefits MDOG, 10am-2pm. Mt. Nebo, Spring Street. www.mdgoct.com. ◆ April 26 - Norwalk - PAWS 5th Annual "Wine & Howl" Wine tasting Fundraising Event, 35pm. PAWS (Pet Animal Welfare Society). United Church of Rowayton, 210 Rowayton Ave., 203-750-9572, ilona@optonline.net, www.pawsct.org. ◆ May 2 – Bridgeport - Spring Fling, 11am3pm. Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo, 1875 Noble Ave., 203-394-6565, www.beardsleyzoo.org. ◆ May 2, 16 - Enfield – Our Companions adoption information event. Petco, 25 Hazard Ave., 860-745-7671. Our Companions, 860242-9999, www.ourcompanions.org. ◆ May 2 - Kensington - Compassionate Care Animal Center Tag Sale, 8am-1pm, Weather permitting. 216 Percival Avenue. 860-3800415, www.compassionatecarect.org. ◆ May 2 – Washington - Open House. 10am3pm. Rain date May 3. 1-3pm; food and drink available, plus a bake sale table. Horse of Connecticut, 43 Wilbur Rd., 860-868-1960, www.horseofct.org. ◆ May 3 – Greenwich - Adopt-A-Dog at Kiwanis Club Flea Market 9am-4pm. Arch St. Adopt-A-Dog's Shelter, 914-273-1674, www.adopt-a-dog.org. ◆ April 25 – North Haven - Clean-Up Days at Animal Haven, 12-4pm. 89 Mill Road. 203239-2641, www.theanimalhaven.com. ◆ May 5 - Berlin - CHC Monthly Meeting. Northeast Utilities, 107 Selden St. Connecticut Horse Council, 860-482-9500, www.cthorsecouncil.org. ◆ April 25, 26 – Norwalk - Marine Life Study Cruise, 1pm. The Maritime Aquarium, 10 North Water St., 203-852-0700, www.maritimeaquarium.org. ◆ May 6 – Rabies Vaccination Clinic, 2-4pm at the EMS building on Meadow Street. Friends of the Shelton Animal Shelter, friends@friendsofsas.com. ◆ April 25 – Southington - 5th Annual Barking BBQ & Fundraiser, 1-4pm. 1177 West St., 860-621-7297. ◆ May 8 - East Windsor - Pointer Associates of New England AKC Field Trials. Flaherty Field Trial Grounds On Thomely Road. For additional information contact: Ms. Debra Freidus, Event Secretary, 860- 485-0323, blackthornpt@earthlink.net, www.eastconn.com/pane/pane.html. ◆ April 25 - Storrs - Annual Spring Horse Auction. UConn Horsebarn, 860-486-2034. ◆ April 25 - Waterbury - We Adopt Greyhounds, Inc. Meet & Greet, 1:30-3:30pm. Petsmart, 475 Bank Street, 203-596-9997. WAG, 877-595-0991, www.weadoptgreyhounds.org. ◆ May 8 - N Stonington - St. Hubert Kennel Club AKC Dog Show, Confirmation, Obedience & Rally. N Stonington Agricultural Frgrnds, Wyassup Road. For additional information contact: MB-F Inc., Superintendent, 336-3799352, mbf@infodog.com. To list your calendar events contact Tamara Sevigny at petspress@yahoo.com or mail her at P.O. Box 579 Old Lyme, CT 06371 19 CALENDAR ◆ May 9, 23 – Brookfield - Greyhound Rescue & Rehab Meet & Greet, 10am-3pm. Petco, 169 Federal Rd. 203-775-3337, www.greyhoundrescuerehab.org. ◆ New Milford – AWS Member's Meeting second Monday of each month, 8pm. Open to the public. Animal Welfare Society, 8 Dodd Rd., 860-354-1350, www.animalwelfaresociety.homestead.com. ◆ May 9 - Greenwich - Adopt-A-Dog at Pet Pantry Warehouse, 11am-3pm. Adopt-A-Dog's Shelter, 914-273-1674, www.adopt-a-dog.org. ◆ May 9, 10 - Lebanon - Berkshire Belgian Tervuren Club, American Belgian Tervuren Club, Inc. AKC Herding Tests & Trials. Starshine Farm, 33 Oliver Road. For additional information contact: Ann Marie Ely, Event Secretary, 845-635-3091, raegsd@juno.com, www.berkshiretervs.org, www.abtc.org. ◆ May 9 – Newtown - Upscale Bake Sale - Buy your Mother’s Day gifts and goodies. Lexington Gardens, 32 Church Hill Road. DAWS, 203-744DAWS (3297), www.daws.org. ◆ Rocky Hill - Pet Loss Support Group meets the 4th Tuesday of every month, 6-7pm. Rocky Hill Congregational Church, 805 Old Main St., 860-633-7516, www.wellbeingshome.com/petloss. View the calendar of events online! W W W . P E T S P R E S S . N E T ◆ May 9 – Rocky Hill - Dog Hike, 10am. Quarry Park. Benefits Rocky Hill dog park, 860258-2772. ◆ May 16-17 – Plainfield - Yankee Weimaraner Club AKC Hunting Tests. Sugarbrook Field Trial Area. For additional information contact: Jean Gamble, Event Secretary, 978-779-6112, jeangamble@comcast.net. ◆ May 23 - Sterling - Eastern Connecticut Beagle Club AKC Field Trials. Eastern Connecticut Grounds, 687 Gibson Hill Rd. For additional information contact: David Bourque, Event Secretary, 860-896-0506, davejbrq@yahoo.com. ◆ May 10 - Manchester - We Adopt Greyhounds Inc. Adoption Event, 12-2pm. Petsmart, 1520 Pleasant Valley Rd. 877-5950991, Gianna.Fergione@gmail.com, www.weadoptgreyhounds.org. ◆ May 16 – Southbury - Greyhound Rescue & Rehab Meet & Greet, 10am-2pm. Petland Discounts, 775 Main St. South, Southbury Green Shopping Center. 203-267-7333, www.greyhoundrescuerehab.org. ◆ May 30 - New Britain - Volunteer Horse Patrol Parade Participation. City of Memorial Day Parade, 6pm. To register: Contact Meg Sautter, mmsautter@att.net. ◆ May 10 - South Windsor - Irish Setter Club of Central Connecticut AKC Confirmation Dog Show, Obedience & Rally. Grounds of the Rotary Pavilion, Abby Road Extension (off Sand Hill Road). For additional information contact: Susan Johnson, Event Secretary, 401- 7395968, irishne@aol.com. ◆ May 16 – Southington - WAG Roo Fest!! 11am-3pm (rain or shine) Camp Sloper, 1000 East Street. We Adopt Greyhounds, 877-5950991, Gianna.Fergione@gmail.com, www.weadoptgreyhounds.org. ◆ May 10 - Woodstock - Bulldog Club of New England, Windham County Kennel Club AKC Confirmation Dog Show. Woodstock Fairgrounds, Stonebridge Rd. For additional information contact: MB-F Inc., Superintendent, 336-379-9352, mbf@infodog.com. ◆ May 11 – New London - Attracting Birds and Butterflies to Your Yard. New London Public Library, 7-8pm. Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center, 109 Pequotsepos Rd., 860-536-1216, www.dpnc.org. ◆ May 16 – Bethany - Rabies Clinic, 12-4pm. Country Companion Veterinary Services, 9 Amity Road. amityarf@yahoo.com. ◆ May 16 - Manchester (rain date May 23) Paws on the Promenade, 11am-4pm at Evergreen Walk. Our Companions, 860-2429999, www.ourcompanions.org. ◆ May 16 – Newington - low cost rabies vaccination clinic, 10am-1pm. Pet Spa at Twin City, 745 New Britain Ave. Compassionate Care Animal Center, 860-380-0415, www.compassionatecarect.org. ◆ May 16 – Wallingford - CT FACT's Annual Ferret Frolic, 10am-4pm. Grange Hall, 586 Center St. 860-247-1275, www.ferret-fact.org. ◆ May 17 - Durham - The 1st Annual Durham Pet Fair, 11am-4pm. Durham Veterinary Hospital, 178 Parmelee Hill Road. www.durhampetfair.com. ◆ May 23 - Lebanon - Northeast Stockdog Association of Connecticut AKC Herding Tests & Trials. Starshine Farm, 33 Oliver Road. For additional information contact: Garard Baudet, Event Secretary, 401-741-9878, garad@cs.uri.edu. ◆ May 23 – North Haven - Clean-Up Days at Animal Haven, 12-4pm. 89 Mill Road, 203239-2641, www.theanimalhaven.com. ◆ May 23, 24 & 25 – Old Lyme – Foals & Flowers Open Barn, 10am-4pm. Bring your blanket and chairs, spend the day or an hour. Lots of good horses, good company, good country air. Refreshments available or bring a picnic! 100 Whippoorwill Rd. 860-434-7355, www.whippoorwillmorgans.com. ◆ May 30 – Rocky Hill - Paws for the Park Spring Fest, 10am-3pm. (rain date, 6/6) Veteran’s Memorial Amphitheater in Elm Ridge Park. Benefits Rocky Hill dog park, 860-2582772. ◆ May 31 - Windsor - 4th Annual Walk for Chance - Walk for Chance or Race for Rescue Fund Raiser, 8am-4pm. 145 Lang Road. ~ ONGOING ~ ◆ Farmington - Friends of Berlin Animal Control Pet Adoptions. Sundays at PETCO in Farmington in the plaza next to Border's, 1600 South East Rd., 860-674-9599. ◆ Hamden - REGAP of CT, Inc. Retired Greyhounds As Pets, meet & greet. Last Saturday of each month, 11am-2pm. Petco, 2100 Dixwell Ave., 203-393-1673, www.regapct.com. ◆ Manchester - REGAP of CT, Inc. Retired Greyhounds As Pets, meet & greet. Last Saturday of each month, 2-4pm. Petco, 432a Buckland Hills Dr., 203-393-1673, www.regapct.com. ◆ Middletown – The CT Parrot Society meets the first Thursday of the month. Wadsworth Glen Health/Rehabilitation Center. 30 Boston Rd., 6:30pm. ww.connecticutparrotsociety.org. ◆ Rocky Hill - First Saturday of Every Month Monthly Dog Play Time at Best Friends Pet Care, 12-2pm to Benefit the Rocky Hill Dog Park. 1511 Silas Deane Highway. ◆ Stamford - FREE Dog Training Classes at the Stamford Pound For Pound Pups, Adopters, & The General Public. Wednesday Nights, arrive by 6:20pm for 6:30 class. 201 Magee Ave., 203-977-4437. ◆ Stratford - Monthly meeting for New Leash on Life, first Friday of the month. All are welcome. Please call either Cathy at 203-2597562 or Lynn at 203-378-0657 to confirm next date, time and place. ◆ Stratford - S.T.A.R.S Adoption Event and Pet Boutique, Every second Saturday of the month, 11am-3pm. Stratford Animal Control Facility from, 9 Frog Pond La. 203-385-4068, www.stratfordac.org. ◆ Wallingford - REGAP of CT, Inc. Retired Greyhounds As Pets, meet & greet. Last Saturday of each month, 11am-2pm. Petco, 848 North Colony Rd. (Rt 5). 203-393-1673, www.regapct.com. ◆ Low cost spay/neuter mobile van for cats. T.E.A.M. (Tait's Every Animal Matters). Call for locations and dates. 888-FOR-TEAM, www.everyanimalmatters.com. ◆ Low-cost vaccination clinics at your local Petco. Visit www.petco.com or call 888-824PALS(7257) for dates and times and a location near you. ◆ Low cost spay/neuter program - The Central CT Cat Project sponsored by Friends of Berlin Animal Control. $70 cash and vaccines are included. Call for reservations/times 860828-5287. ◆ Pet adoptions at your local Petco. Visit www.petco.com or call 888-824-PALS(7257) for dates and times and a location near you. ◆ Pet adoptions at your local PetSmart. Visit www.petsmart.com or call 800-738-1385 ext. 2518 for dates and times and a location near you. To list your calendar events contact Tamara Sevigny at petspress@yahoo.com or mail her at P.O. Box 579 Old Lyme, CT 06371 PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 PETS PRESS PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 20 PETS PRESS ADOPTIONS DOGS Norwalk - Moo is a wonderful dog whose heartbroken family was forced to give her up due to severe allergies of the new baby in the home. She was rescued by her previous owners as a puppy along with her littermates. All the other puppies were placed into homes and Moo stayed with her rescuers. Her owners describe her as affectionate, playful and energetic - a good fit for an active home with older children. She may have some herding dog in her as she will try to "herd" people at times. Moo would prefer to be the only pet in the home. Moo knows basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, lay down and is housetrained. She is also trained to an invisible fence. Moo is 7 years young, already spayed and current on her vaccines. Interested? Please call PAWS at 203-750-9572 or visit www.pawsct to see more great dogs and cats available for adoption! West Hartford - Brie is a one year old Pomeranian, Spitz, Sheltie mix who is very shy, but friendly. She should be the only dog with no children. She will need a special person that can give her the patience and love she needs. If you are interested please call Animal Friends of Connecticut at 860-827-0381for more information. Please call during the day only. The best time is 7am-5pm. Norwalk - This darling of a dog is ready to steal your heart. Sweet Pea wants nothing more than to go for a nice walk and then cuddle with you for hours. Human companionship is all she needs! Sweet Pea is 2 years old and up to date on her vaccinations. She is ready to love you forever. Sweet Pea is at the PAWS Shelter. Call us at 203-750-9572 or visit www.pawsct.org. EXOTICS South Windsor - Jellybean will be 10 months old in April 2009. He is a large black male with a very charming personality and shows all the makings for a good family rabbit. He seems to be a gentle and fun-loving boy and would love an indoor home where he can get lots of exercise. Jellybean weighs about 6 pounds. For more information contact the House Rabbit Connection. To learn more about the need in the region for foster caretakers, or how you can help HRC rescue house rabbits visit HRC's website at www.hopline.org, email us at info@hopline.com, or call 413-525-9222. A House Rabbit Connection volunteer will gladly answer your questions. CATS Kensington - Petite Pippy is a sweet Russian Blue, 2 year old spayed female cat that is vet checked and vaccinated. She is blind but compensates incredibly well. Pippy can go to a home with other cats. She has been waiting for someone to adopt her for quite some time. For more information contact Compassionate Care Animal Center at 860-380-0415. Norwalk - Are you looking for a Valentine year round? If so, then you've come to the right place. I am all cat and all love! For some reason, my owners decided to leave me on the doorstep of PAWS. The staff here can't understand why because I am a very sweet, gentle and loving kitty. That's why they called me Valentino. I am about 7 years old, neutered, up to date on my vaccinations and tested negative for FIV and FeLV. So, if you are looking for a loving companion, then I'm the one for you! Interested? Please call PAWS at 203-750-9572 or visit www.pawsct to see more great dogs and cats available for adoption. Westport - Alex is a sweet, young cat who has already overcome an unknown trauma which makes it difficult for him to balance. As of 3/9/09 he is walking beautifully (not completely healed, but so much better!). He is still a love bug though! And everyone loves those beautiful eyes. Please stop by to meet him! At Save Our Strays, Inc. 1677 Post Road East or call 203-255-0514. Or visit them online at www.SaveOurStraysInc.petfinder.com. Moe is a medium-haired tuxedo cat about 5-6 years old. He's neutered, up to date on shots and is negative for Feline Leukemia and FIV. He is also free of parasites and is litter box trained. He has just one "special need" - Due to skin allergies, he must be fed a specific prescription-only diet. But he doesn't mind that at all. Moe also has a special talent - At the water bubbler, he stands on his hind legs and uses his paw to press the lever for the cold water, getting himself a drink. Moe wants to be the boss of the other cats at the vet clinic where he is fostered. Moe photographs poorly so you will have to meet him in person to appreciate how special he is. There is an adoption fee for Moe. This is a courtesy listing through HEART Rescue. For more information on Moe, please call: 860-886-0188. South Windsor - Hi my name is Ouzo. I am a shorthair, black and white, neutered male. I am about 2 years old. I was found by a nice person who took me to the smith/blowers adoption fund to find a new home. I am negative for FELV/FIV, dewormed, up to date on distemper, rabies and leukemia vaccines, neutered, microchipped, and treated with Revolution. I am very sweet and lovable. Won't you take me home? The donation for Ouzo is $100.00. If interested please contact Lisa at 860-528-2178 ext.12. East Hartford - Rosebud is a beautiful black Mini Lop, 5 years old and approximately 6 lbs. Rosebud was surrendered to a local shelter along with a male rabbit. At the shelter she gave birth, and sadly her babies did not make it, leaving Rosebud sad and upset. She was not doing well in the shelter, so into 3 Bunnies care she came. For more information on Rosebud and other adoptable rabbits please contact 3 Bunnies rabbit Rescue at info@3bunnies.org, 413-427-7345, www.petfinder.com zip 06118 and rabbit in search, or www.3bunnies.org. North Haven - Derby came to us after his owners moved without him! A kind neighbor called us for help. Derby was super shy at first but has warmed up nicely. He's very talkative and likes to be petted. He is a bit nervous around other kitties and would probably do best in a home of his own, or possibly with one other friendly kitty. Derby can't wait to find a new home. For more information contact Halfway Home Rescue Inc. at 203985-8338 or visit www.HalfwayHomeRescue.org. Washington - Lacey, an 8-year-old Quarter Horse/Draft mare, is a solid riding horse in the ring and on trails; she loves to lead but will follow. She would be best for an intermediate rider. Lacey wears two front shoes and needs an extra-wide English or Western saddle. To learn more about Lacey, please call HORSE of Connecticut at 860-868-1960 or go to www.horseofct.org. Fairfield - Pasha is a very sweet 9 month young spayed girl. She is vaccinated and tested neg for Fiv/Feluk. Pasha is a cute Maine Coon mix. Her mother has found a home last summer but this little girl is still waiting for her furever home.She loves to play with feather toys, loves Deli Turkey, which she goes bonkers over, and she also loves cats and is ok with cat friendly dogs. She also loves to be held and brushed. For more information contact CATS Inc.at 203-247-2319. Adoptions can be sent to Tamara Sevigny at petspress@yahoo.com or mail her at P.O. Box 579 Old Lyme, CT 06371 21 DID YOU KNOW? CAT FACTS DOG FACTS HORSE FACTS The largest species of cat is the Siberian tiger, which has an average length of a little over 10 feet and is 42 inches tall at the shoulder. The Alaskan Malamute is a very powerful, deep chested dog with masses of stamina. It enjoys activity and exercise of all kinds. In 1875, one thousand tons of horse manure was being removed from the streets of London every day. Source: The Complete Encyclopedia of Cats COLOR ME! Source: The Complete Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds Use colored pencil or crayons for best results. Markers are not recommended. Source: The Complete Encyclopedia of Horses and Ponies PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 PETS PRESS KIDS CORNER PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 22 PROFESSIONAL VETERINARY MEDICATION PETS•PRESS Compounded Pet Medicine M A R K E T P L AC E BIGGEST Little in in Town TheThe BIGGEST littlePet PetShop Shop Town GROOMERS, KENNELS, VETERINARIANS, BREEDERS, PET CARE & MORE... simonsezpets.com 140LOCAL MarketDELIVERY Square FREE Newington CTSquare 06111 140 Market Newington • 757-3847 860-757-3847 SimonSezPets.com FREE LOCAL DELIVERY! To advertise call David at 800.286.6397 x3006 3 Bunnies Rabbit Rescue, Inc. A non-profit organization Adoptions & Education P.O. Box 380605 East Hartford, CT 06138-0605 (413) 427-7345 info@3bunnies.org • www.3bunnies.org Innova • Merrick • Wellness • Abady California Natural • Frontline • Penn Plax Tues.-Fri. • Sat. 11-4:30 • Closed Sun. & Mon. Mon.-Fri. 11-5:30 10am-5:30pm; Sat. 10am-4pm; Closed Sun. Self Serve Dog Wash Call ahead, we’ll be ready for you! Happy Tails at Ash Creek 3008 Fairfield Ave. ~ Black Rock, CT 06605 203-382-1301 Over 15 years of Specialty Animal Compounding COMPARE & SAVE! PROFESSIONAL PHARMACY Stamford, CT 203-323-9988 www.ProPharmacyRx.com Nutrition questions? Litter box issues? Aggressive behavior? Cat care classes now forming! 25 for 1st dog, add’l dogs $15 $ ❀ You wash ❀ We provide everything and clean the mess ❀ Aprons, shampoo, brushes, towels ❀ Raised tubs, grooming tables, professional dryers Don’t trust your animal’s safety to any distant pharmacy. Speak directly to the pharmacist who will make your medication. QDWXUDOHDV\WRDEVRUE ELRDYDLODEOHÀVKSURWHLQ VXSSRUWVGLJHVWLRQ KHDOWK\VNLQVKLQ\FRDW Sally E. Bahner Feline Consultant 25 Kellycrest Rd., Branford,CT 06405 Tel: 203-488-3495 • Fax: 203-488-1268 sebahner@snet.net MARY JO E. ZANOLLI BEGINNER AND INTERMEDIATE RIDING LESSONS “For good pets everywhere" A NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION • ADOPTIONS • EDUCATION • VET REFERRALS Grammies Goodies™ For specialty muffins, loaves and other treats for your pet. As well as pet gift baskets and fundraising opportunities. Call (860) 568-5164, 9:00am to 5:00pm email:grammiesgoodies@aol.com www.GrammiesGoodies.net (860)683-1677 P.O. Box 83 • Springfield, MA 01101 • 413-525-9222 info@hopline.com www.hopline.com Dog Lover Expires 4/15/09 Melissa Zachariah (860)478-2045 (860)233-7120 Gzacha@aol.com phoebejane10@yahoo.com Connecticut Equestrian Center 220 Talcott Hill Rd. Coventry CT 06238 www.connecticutequestriancenter.com A non-profit organization providing clinical Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) and Humane Education to children and adolescents. I will love your pet as much as you do. Dog walking and in-home care of any pet available 7 days a week. Fully insured. 10% OFF 1st Time Clients w/this coupon • English Riding Lessons with a focus on Balanced Seat Equitation • Horse Care and Safety Instruction • Safe School Horses • Indoor Arena Advertise your service here! 800.286.6397 Lauren M. Mascola, D.V.M. Petcare GREAT LOVE COMES IN SMALL PACKAGES SOUL FRIENDS Animal Assisted Therapy for the Soul The Critter Connection, Inc. Kate Nicoll, LCSW Connecticut's Guinea Pig Rescue Durham, CT www.ctguineapigrescue.org Executive Director “Providing Superior Care in a Warm, Friendly, Environment” 401 Center St, Wallingford, CT, 203-679-0849 ~ www.soul-friends.org Tel: 860.232.6060 • Fax: 860.232.6964 VETERINARY SERVICES 64 Raymond Rd • West Hartford, CT 06107 23 PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 PETS PRESS ◆ APRIL 2009 24 Loving, expert care. Complete Wellness Care &DWVDQGGRJVVHHQ 9DFFLQHVZHOOQHVVVFUHHQLQJ 6XUJHU\'HQWDO&DUH ,QKRXVHODERUDWRU\ 0LFURFKLSDYDLODEOHWRLGHQWLI\\RXUSHW (YHQLQJDQGZHHNHQGKRXUV (PHUJHQFLHVZHOFRPH We also offer %RDUGLQJ*URRPLQJ%DWKLQJ9&$(DVW+DUWIRUG9&$&URPZHOO 3RFNHW3HWVDQG5DEELWV9&$7ZLQ&LW\DQG9&$&URPZHOO 'HQWDO6XUJHU\(QGRGRQWLFV(root canals)9&$&URPZHOO (QGRVFRS\8OWUDVRXQG6HUYLFHV9&$&KHVKLUHDQG9&$9DOOH\ 'HUPDWRORJ\9&$&KHVKLUH KRXUHPHUJHQF\VHUYLFHDYDLODEOH9&$&KHVKLUH There is a VCA Animal Hospital near you. Cheshire VCA Cheshire Animal Hospital 1572 S. Main St. 203-272-3266 HOUR 24 www.VCACheshire.com Cromwell VCA Cromwell Animal Hospital 547 Main Street 860-635-1979 East Hartford VCA Animal Hospital of East Hartford 334 Silver Lane 860-569-1066 Vernon VCA Animal Hospital of Vernon 155 Talcottville Rd. 860-872-7351 South Windsor VCA Valley Animal Hospital 39 Patria Road South 860-528-2178 www.VCACromwell.com www.VCAEastHartford.com 'RFWRURQVLWHQLJKWVZHHNHQGVKROLGD\V Newington VCA Twin City Animal Hospital 725 New Britain Ave. 860-665-1314 www.VCATwinCity.com www.VCAVernon.com 9&$3(76ZZZYFDSHWVFRP www.VCAValley.com *Some services not available in all locations.