CA-FEB19-WEB

FREE 

TAKE ONE! 

FEBRUARY 2019 

VOL. 1 NO. 3 

TM 

Animal Adoption, Rescue and Education in the Sierra Foothills

Pinky’s Perspective 

Dear Readers, 

As we celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, let us not forget about 

our critters, be they dogs, cats, goats, birds or whatever. Often they are our 

biggest supporters and there is a special bond with them. They love us 

unconditionally! Of course, there are many ways to return their love: a long 

walk, a new toy, a special healthy treat, if possible, adopt or become a foster 

for an animal, make a donation to one or more of the several groups who 

have free ads in Critter Magazine. In fact, one of the best ways to show your 

love for animals is to volunteer! The love you will get from volunteering is 

priceless and there are a variety of ways to help either directly or indirectly. 

In order to honor and salute the tireless devotion and dedication of so 

many "Animal Warriors" in our Community, they were asked to gather for 

a group cover photo. So many wanted to come, but rescuing animals is a 

time consuming, sometimes complex endeavor which often requires folks to 

be ready to go at the last minute! Therefore, only a few could fit a half hour in to do this. Featured in 

this photo are Cheryl Wicks of Sammie's Friends, Susan Wallace of Scooter's Pals, Pam Gorman of 

Rescue for Pet Sake, Lori Perry of CAPE and Hannah Turner of Ruff Pack Refuge plus several tireless 

volunteers. Please read about ALL of the groups who do the never-ending work of helping critters of all sorts 

in our community. Stay tuned for articles highlighting each one of these organizations in future issues of 

Critter Magazine. Apologies to the many volunteers who were not able to be in this photo. We know your 

time is precious and you were busy with the work rescuing our beloved animal friends. We salute all of you! 

And please, be sure to thank the business folks whose advertising makes it possible for Critter Magazine 

to be printed, distributed, and appear online every month! 

Play Hard! Bark Loud! Eat Scraps! 

Sarah’s 

Gold Country Groomers 

“Where Your Best Friend is in the Best of Hands” 

2034 Nevada City Hwy. Grass Valley CA 95945 

530-274-4493 

Call to schedule your 

appointment today! 

We Bring People 

and Nature Together 

119 Neal Street Grass Valley, CA 95945 

(530) 272-7744 

Hours: Mon-Fri 9 am-4 pm 

Sarah Gates · Ciera Forsythe · Esther Leon 

75 Bost Ave. Suite 1 Nevada City 

530-265-9400 

PAGE 2 • CRITTER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2019

IN THIS ISSUE 

FEBRUARY 2019 

Pinky’s Perspective ................................................... 2 

Angus & Phil .............................................................. 3 

Point of View ............................................................... 4 

Petland in the Spotlight Again for Cruelty to Puppies 

Dr. Lee: Why People Like Keeping Goats ................ 5 

Dental Health Tips for Pets ........................................ 6 

Chainsaw: A Very Lucky Little Squirrel .................. 8 

Thank You, Scooter’s Pals! ...................................... 9 

Rawhide Chews: Yes or No? .................................. 10 

How Animal Rescue Found Me .............................. 11 

Grazing Goats Aid in Fire Prevention .................... 12 

Critter Kids’ Page ...................................................... 13 

Stop Pet Overpopulation - Spay or Neuter Your Pets 

View From the Camp Fire: Working Together ........ 14 

ON THE COVER 

Thank you to all our amazing ‘Animal Warriors’ in rescue 

who work tirelessly for the welfare of the animals in our 

communities. Please know how much you are appreciated! 

Cover photo by Sandy Boyd 

Saluting pet illustration by Zandria Fink. 

February is 

Pet Dental Month 

Proper pet dental care begins 

with a trip to the veterinarian 

for a dental exam, which 

should be done once a year. 

JUST A REMINDER! 

Critter Magazine is an animal adoption publication dedicated to 

improving the quality of life for animals through education, support of spay/ 

neuter efforts and encouraging responsible pet ownership, as well as helping 

to find loving homes for animals in need. Although the majority of the animals 

profiled are dogs and cats, we will feature any animal that is in need 

of adoption. We publish each month and distribute throughout Grass Valley, 

Nevada City, Penn Valley and Lake Wildwood, North San Juan, Chicago 

Park, Lake of the Pines, Peardale. Advertising and editorial deadline is the 

12 th of the month for the following month’s issue. We welcome letters to the 

editor, comments and suggestions, as well as informative articles and stories 

which are relevant to our goals. 

Subscriptions are available for $30 per year. 

Critter Magazine cannot screen either potential adopters or animals for health or 

temperament. We urge all parties to act responsibly in these matters. All animals 

adopted through Critter Magazine must be spayed or neutered prior to adoption. 

Critter Magazine is a publication of Critter Communications, LLC. 

Publisher and Editor - Pinky Zalkin 

PO Box 1342 Nevada City, CA 95959 

E-mail: CrittermagCA@gmail.com 

(530) 812-1050 

What’s Your Diagnosis? 

Molly is a 10-year old Pomeranian who came to our 

clinic because her coat did not grow back after she 

was clipped for the summer and her skin was flaky. 

When examined, she had a sparse hair coat with 

some patchy regrowth 

and she was slightly 

overweight with a bit of a 

pot belly, but there were 

no other abnormalities 

on physical examination. 

When questioned, her 

owners said she did drink 

quite a bit of water, and 

seemed to be urinating 

more frequently. Her appetite was very good and 

she seemed more hungry than usual. What is your 

diagnosis? 

1. Urinary tract infection 2. Diabetes 3. Hypothyroidism 

4. Cushing’s disease 5. Kidney disease 

See page 12 for lab results and the correct answer. 

If you are interested in publishing a Critter Magazine in your area, 

contact Elaine Lite at crittermagnc@charter.net or call 828-255-0516. 

Visit us on the web at www.crittermagazine.com 

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without prior written consent of publisher prohibited. 

Susan Murphy, D.V.M. · 530-265-3722 

CRITTER MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY 2019 • PAGE 3

Point of View 

Investigation Puts Petland 

Back in the Spotlight for 

Cruelty to Puppies 

By Alicia Graef 

Petland is back in the spotlight yet again thanks to an 

undercover investigation that has exposed its troubling 

treatment of puppies, and highlights some of the many 

problems with buying dogs from pet stores. 

With 80 locations, Petland is the largest chain that 

peddles puppies in the U.S., and it’s certainly had a 

problematic history when it comes to selling dogs. It’s had 

hundreds of complaints made by customers, was linked 

to an outbreak of drug-resistant Campylobacter last year 

by the Centers for Disease Control, and has faced 

multiple lawsuits for selling sick puppies and misleading 

consumers. 

Now, an undercover investigation conducted by 

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) at 

two Petland locations - one in Kennesaw, Georgia, 

near Atlanta, and one in Las Vegas, Nevada – is shining 

a light on problems that continue behind the scenes. 

According to the HSUS, both locations shared issues 

including sick puppies being kept out of sight, overcrowding 

and denying puppies – some of who were at stores for 

months – adequate exercise, all while continuing to bring 

in more puppies to sell. 

In Kennesaw, an investigator found that puppies dying 

was a regular occurrence, and one was discovered in a 

plastic bag in the freezer, while veterinary exams were 

less than thorough and staff were providing treatments in 

the store. 

Some puppies who weren’t eating were given 

something from a questionable bottle simply labeled “The 

Cure,” while the investigator also found that puppies at this 

location were sourced from a breeder in Indiana that was 

linked to the Campylobacter outbreak. 

In Las Vegas, things weren’t much better. A little 

Maltese puppy who had a defect described as a “hole 

in his throat” was being kept alone in the back while an 

employee told the investigator they were waiting for him to 

just die. Even when the investigator asked if she could buy 

him, she was refused and the puppy was sent back to the 

dealer for a refund – even after a humane officer was 

called to intervene. 

Sadly, those are just a few of the many problems that 

were uncovered during this investigation, but they’re 

not uncommon and they’ll continue across the country 

at Petland locations and other stores if they continue 

to source puppies from large-scale breeders, otherwise 

known as puppy mills, because there’s a demand for them. 

Hopefully this investigation will help encourage more 

people to stop supporting pet stores by buying animals 

from them, especially as Christmas approaches. 

“The Humane Society of the United States urges 

consumers never to buy a puppy from a pet store 

because many are unhealthy and most of them come from 

inhumane dealers known as puppy mills,” said John 

Goodwin, senior director of Stop Puppy Mills Campaign for 

the HSUS. “Responsible breeders don’t sell to pet stores, 

because they want to meet the families who are taking 

home their puppies. This investigation once again shows 

the poor conditions of many of these animals at pet stores 

who are sold to innocent consumers looking to bring home 

a new family member.” 

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! 

Since 2004 … Standing against 

oppression & violence towards all beings. 

Piece of Peace Animal Sanctuary was founded 

in 2005 and is a registered 501(c)(3). 

Although the Sanctuary focuses on the rescue 

of farm animals, it is also dedicated to the 

rescue and care of any animal in need. 

If you are interested in learning more about us, email 

info@pieceofpeaceanimalsanctuary.org or visit us 

online at pieceofpeaceanimalsanctuary.org. 

EIN #20-3998510 


Dr. Lee Explains: Why People 

Enjoy Keeping Goats 

By Lee Zasloff, PhD 

If you’ve spent any time around goats, or even watched 

some of the many hilarious goat videos available on 

YouTube, you know what smart, 

funny, engaging animals they are. 

To understand more about these 

wonderful animals, let’s begin with a 

little history. 

About 40,000 years ago, wild goats 

roamed the Zagros Mountains of 

the Middle East (Iran, Iraq, and 

Turkey) where they were hunted by 

Neanderthals. A few thousand years 

later, as our human ancestors 

transitioned from hunting wild goats 

to managing their movement and 

engaging in selective breeding, goats 

moved through Asia to Europe and, 

eventually, to the American continent. 

Today, more than 900 million goats 

worldwide continue to serve human 

needs for milk, meat, and fiber, 

especially in many of the poorest 

countries. In Western cultures, people 

also keep goats for a personal source of dairy products 

(and sometimes meat), but many people keep them as 

pets, for recreation such as packing and cart-pulling, and 

for show. 

To learn about people’s experiences living with these 

wonderful, entertaining creatures, in 2010 I conducted a 

survey that included 392 people from 46 states in the 

U.S as well as from people in Canada, Australia, and the 

U.K. Many people reported the practical benefits of having 

goats. Some commented that the goats provide a supply 

of fresh, healthy milk that they can use to make cheese 

and other dairy products to sell. One person said that 

they provide fiber, mow the grass, 

and are great fertilizer machines. But 

most remarkable was the emotional 

connection people described, stating 

that the goats make them happy, bring 

joy every time they see them, they 

console people when they’re feeling 

blue, and they are great playmates 

and teachers for children. One person 

commented, “They make me get up in 

the morning when I hurt and give me 

love when the world is in pain.” 

If you’re thinking of getting goats, be 

aware that they require a lot of care. 

Do your homework and give careful 

consideration as to whether goats are 

the right animal for you. 

Dr. Lee and her friend, Apollo 

Lee is the former Associate Director 

of the Center for Animals in Society at 

the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and is on 

the Board of Directors of the International Society for 

Anthrozoology. She currently teaches psychology at Sierra 

College. 

It’s Pet Dental Health Month! 

20% off all dentals. Free pre-dental exam for 

animals adopted from a rescue organization. 

The Importance of Dental Care for Pets 

· Oral disease can lead to more serious 

health issues and affect other organs in their body. 

· Pets hide pain well, so look for signs - such as bad breath, 

unusual chewing habits, loss of appetite, red or swollen gums, etc. 

Be sure to schedule a vet exam immediately. 

· Practice at-home prevention. Brush your pet’s teeth regularly 

with pet toothpaste which is flavored like food. Never use 

human toothpaste! Dental sprays are also available, 

as well as special treats to help remove plaque. 

www.spdmarket.com 

735 Zion St., Nevada City · 530.265.4596 

129 W. McKnight Way, Grass Valley · 530.272.5000 

Denny Nolet, DVM 

128 New Mohawk Rd. Nevada City, CA 

530-478-9141 · pinecreekvetclinic.net 

Hours: Monday-Saturday 8 am - 6 pm 


Dental Health Tips for Pets 

Don't turn your nose to Fido's or Fluffy's bad breath! 

That odor might signify a serious health risk, with the 

potential to damage not only your pet's teeth and gums 

but its internal organs as well. 

February is National Pet Dental Health Month. Here 

are some important dental health tips for cats and dogs, 

and the top reasons caring for your pet's teeth is critical. 

1. A pet with healthy teeth equals a pet with better breath. 

2. Dental disease can actually lead to problems with your 

pet’s organs, such as the heart. 

3. Retained baby teeth can cause problems in pets 

too! Did you know that full grown dogs have 42 teeth and 

full grown cats have 30 teeth? Before their adult 

teeth grow in, though, their baby teeth have to fall out. 

Sometimes, not all of the baby teeth want to come out. 

This can lead to problems like gum irritation and tartar 

buildup. 

4. Caring for your pet’s teeth can prevent other health 

problems, saving you tons of money over the long term. 

5. You need regular dental care and you brush your teeth 

everyday – why wouldn’t your pets? Your veterinarian can 

help you learn to brush your dog's teeth and your cat's 

teeth. 

6. Did you know that 4 out of 5 dogs over the age of 

3-years have some sort of periodontal disease? And cats 

are also at risk. It can be caused by the buildup of plaque, 

so it’s important to go in for regular dental checkups and 

cleanings. 

7. Pets that don’t get dental care can lose their teeth – 

which can be very painful and cause serious health 

problems. 

8. Your dog and cat are very good at hiding pain – you 

might never know that your pet has a serious dental 

problem until it’s very advanced. This is yet another 

reason it’s important to take your pet in for regular dental 

checkups. 

9. Teeth wear out! Your pets are tough on their teeth. 

Learn the symptoms to keep your pet from experiencing 

the pain of severely worn teeth. 

10. Learn more about the importance of dental care by 

speaking with your vet. They are your best resource to 

ensure the health and well-being of your pets. 

Quiet Private Clean & Safe Salon 

25 Years All Breed Grooming 

Downtown Grass Valley 

Congratulations 

Critter Magazine! 

Woof Mountain Dog Training 

Where Sit Happens! 

Pet Grooming by Jessica 

(530) 802-6436 

Robert Giuliani, DDS 

1061 E. Main St #202 

Grass Valley, CA 

530-272-4201 

Dr. Bob and best 

friend, Oliver 

Georganne Green 

Dog Trainer & AKC Obedience Judge 

530-273-0703 / 408-806-0631 (cell) 

Email: k9andfelinejunky@gmail.com 

SMALL DOG PET SITTING 

A Loving Pet Owner at Your Service 

· Daily or Overnight 

· Safe & Secure 

· Dog-friendly Home 

Located in 

downtown 

Grass Valley 

Rosemarie (530) 559-4211 

202 West Main St. 

Grass Valley, CA 95945 

530-802-5025 

CHIROPRACTIC, INC. 

INTEGRATED WELLNESS CENTER 

Dr. Dale Jacobson 

Office Hours: 

Monday - Thursday 

8:30am - 5:30pm 

Friday 8:30am - 2:00pm 

194 GOLD FLAT RD. NEVADA CITY, CA 

P: 530-265-2220 


GRASS VALLEY ANIMAL CONTROL 

556 B Freeman Lane, Grass Valley, CA 95945 · 530-477-4630 

Hours: Monday - Friday 11 am - 1 pm and 2 - 4 pm 

Closed Weekends and Holidays 

WILLA 

FRENCHY 

CODY 

MAXWELL 

PAWL 

2-yo Tabby 

2-yo female Pittie 

1½-yo Shepherd mix 

3-yo 

Poodle/Yorkie mix 

4-yo male Shep- 

9-mo Tabico 

PETEY 

LIKE US on Facebook at 

"Friends of Grass Valley Animal Control Shelter" 

or find us on Petfinder at 

"Grass Valley Animal Control." 

OCTAVIA 

6-yo Mastiff mix 

AnimalSave 

CENTER 

Working to Better the Lives of Companion Animals! 

Low Cost Spay & Neuter Clinic 

Pet Adoption Services 

Cat Adoption Room 

Family Owned and Operated for Over 30 Years! 

670 Grass Valley Highway Auburn, CA 95603 

(530) 885-4019 · goldrushsubaru.com 

Thrift & Treasures Benefit Store 

Book Nook 

520 E. Main St. Grass Valley, CA 

(530) 271-7071 

www.animalsave.org 


‘Chainsaw’ Was a Very Lucky 

Little Gray Squirrel 

By Bev Myers, Small Mammal Rehabber for WR&R 

Western Gray Squirrels are 

common - and they can be pests - but 

they are so cute! 

‘Chainsaw’ and his brother came 

into Wildlife Rehabilitation and Release 

early in July. Both were victims of a 

chainsaw that went right through their 

nest before the tree cutters noticed 

it. The wife of one of the tree 

cutters brought the young squirrels into 

WR&R’s Intake Center and I was called 

to help these 4-5 week old babies. 

One of the siblings was too badly 

injured to survive. However the other 

one had two holes in its pelt and a 

tear going from one hole to the other 

with the muscle underneath untouched. 

I rushed him to Motherlode Veterinary 

Hospital where Dr. Molly Dinucci 

treated his wound and gave him 12 

stitches to close his pelt. 

I administered two medications 

daily: one for pain relief and the 

other an antibiotic. He had to be fed 

every three hours from 4 am until 

10 pm. After a couple of weeks, he was fed every four 

hours, eating more natural food like nuts, greens, and 

acorns. Gray Squirrels cannot be released until they are 

about 14-16 weeks old when natural instincts kick in and 

they can forage for food. 

I took special care of him and he started to thrive, but 

I was careful not to treat him like a pet. 

His release time arrived. The night 

before, I captured him from his larger 

cage and put him in a transport cage. 

He was not happy at all, but that was a 

good sign - he was still wild! 

Since his nest trees were cut down, 

I needed to pick a new area for him to 

live. According to our release criteria 

we needed to release him within a 

10-mile radius of where he was found, 

so I chose Condon Park. 

After arriving at the park, we walked 

down a side path and found some trees 

that would be a good habitat. I opened 

his cage door and he flew out of the 

crate and grabbed on to a bush. As he 

was hanging on to that bush I swear he 

looked at me with a smile. Then he 

jumped onto a tree and ran to the top! 

This guy will be just fine. 

With proper care, ‘Chainsaw’ began to Wildlife Rehabilitation and Release is 

thrive and was released back to the wild. a non-profit, all-volunteer organization 

that rehabs injured or orphaned wild 

birds and small mammals and releases them back to the 

wild. For more information, visit www.cawildlife911.org. 

"Our perfect companions never 

have fewer than four feet." 

― Colette 

Community Outreach & Animal Rescue 

RPR PET PANTRY 

The RPR Pet Pantry program assists hundreds of low-income 

families in Nevada, Yuba and Sierra counties. RPR provides 

dog and cat food at no charge to owned pets in an effort 

to keep pets and families together. 

ANIMAL HOSPICE 

RPR Hospice program helps provide a safe, warm and loving 

environment for elderly, sick or disabled pets who have been 

discarded and facing euthanasia in shelters. Each dog or cat 

brought into the hospice program receives a special day prior 

to crossing the Rainbow Bridge and given a peaceful goodbye 

in the comfort of our in-home sanctuary. 

Sponsor a dog or cat for $150 

PO Box 251 Camptonville, CA 95922 

Donations: Ruffpack.org 

(530) 329-5561 · EIN 82-2874342 

600 Freeman Lane 

Grass Valley, CA 95949 

FOREIGN & DOMESTIC 

· Free Estimates · Manufacturer Certified 

Todd Tripp 

Darrol Tripp 

530-273-8515 · 530-272-8515 - Fax 

www.trippsautobody.com 

tripps@trippsautobody.com 


Thank You, Scooter’s Pals! 

By Susan Wallace 

Scooter’s Pals came in like the proverbial Calvary. 

Two hours before he was scheduled to be put to death, 

Scooter’s rescued Buddy. Buddy had a hard life ... and he 

really was a mess. His skin was very patchy and he was 

actually bow legged from being crated for up to 18 hours a 

day. He badly needed vet care, grooming and love. 

Buddy’s Life Before Scooter’s 

Initially, Buddy's first family gave him up when he was 

2-years old. He was adopted again but because he had 

chronic skin allergies and ear infections, his family couldn’t 

afford to keep up the medical treatment, him so they gave 

him up as well. He was just 5-years old and had already 

lost his home twice. 

Life looked grim for Buddy. He was scheduled to be 

euthanized, but Scooter’s swooped in and rescued him. 

Lucky Buddy! Scooter’s got him vet care and grooming, 

and love was on its way. He was placed in a foster home, 

and his foster mom fell in love with the little guy. She knew 

that he was in her family’s home forever. Buddy's family 

takes great care of him now ... with proper vet care and 

lots of love. And it shows - he is one happy, healthy boy. 

Scooter’s Pals finds foster homes for dogs they 

rescues until a forever home is found. They will even take 

dogs back if a home doesn’t work out. Scooter’s tries to 

keep dogs out of shelters unless it is Sammie’s Friends 

because that is a no-kill shelter. The people at Scooter's 

How could anyone resist Buddy’s precious face? 

Thankfully, his new family couldn’t and he’s finally 

living the wonderful life he deserves. 

volunteer for their love of animals. They take no salary. All 

donations go directly to rescue and care for the dogs. 

Thank you, Scooter’s Pals! 

Read more about Scooter's PaIs and see doggy 

photos at facebook.com/scooterspals or instagram.com/ 

scooters_pals. Donations can be made online at 

scooterspals.org, Scooter's Facebook page, or by a check 

mailed to PO Box 1687, Cedar Ridge, CA 95924. 


Rawhide Chews: Yes or No? 

By Patti Galle, Nevada County Pets in Need 

Rawhide chews are a popular treat for 

dogs. You might have heard that 

rawhide is good for your dog’s teeth and 

helps with his natural instinct to chew. 

But are there any drawbacks to giving 

your dog rawhide treats? Are there 

other alternatives that work just as 

well? Here’s what you need to know. 

What are rawhide dog treats 

made of? 

Rawhide treats come from the inner 

layer of cow or horse hides. During 

manufacturing, the hides are cleaned 

and cut or ground. Then they’re pressed 

into chewable dog treats of different shapes and sizes. To 

make them more appealing for dogs, some rawhide treats 

contain beef, chicken, or liver flavorings. 

What are the benefits of rawhide? 

All dogs need to chew. It’s a natural instinct. Some 

even spend hours chewing every day. Chewing can 

provide your dog stimulation and help relieve anxiety. 

Especially with puppies, treats like rawhide bones can be 

a great substitute for your leather shoes and the legs of 

the dining room table! 

Chewing also keeps dogs’ jaws strong, teeth clean, 

and breath a bit fresher. Dogs that chew regularly on 

rawhides and other bones or toys have less plaque and 

tartar build-up on teeth. 

Are there risks associated with rawhide dog treats? 

Given the amount of rawhide consumed by dogs 

each year, the risks are relatively small. Still, risks 

can be serious, so don’t ignore them. Weigh the risks 

and benefits of giving rawhides based 

upon your dog's chewing needs and 

behaviors. 

The most common rawhide risks: 

· Contamination. As with pet toys, 

rawhide chews can contain trace 

amounts of toxic chemicals. And, as 

with other pet (or human) foods, 

Salmonella or E. coli contamination is 

possible. Even humans can be at risk 

when coming into contact with these 

bacteria on rawhide treats. 

· Digestive irritation. Some dogs are 

simply sensitive or allergic to rawhide or other substances 

used in their manufacture. This can cause problems, 

including diarrhea. 

· Choking or blockages. Rawhide bones and other 

edible chews can pose a choking and blockage risk. In 

fact, this is a much bigger risk than contamination or 

digestive irritation. If your dog swallows large pieces of 

rawhide, the rawhide can get stuck in the esophagus or 

other parts of the digestive tract. Depending on its size 

and where it is located, a vet may be able to remove these 

pieces fairly easily through the throat. But sometimes, 

abdominal surgery is needed to remove them from the 

stomach or intestines. If it isn’t resolved, a blockage can 

lead to death. 

NCVDRT 

Nevada County 

Veterinary Disaster 

Response Team 

A 501c3 non-profit organization 

The Nevada County Veterinary Disaster Response Team 

was created to help evacuate animals to a safe location 

during a community disaster. Animals who are 

evacuated by NCVDRT are housed, fed, and 

receive medical attention as needed. 

www.nevcoanimalevac.org 

facebook.com/NevadaCountyVeterinaryDisasterResponseTeam 

Contact Pat Ehlers at 530-477-6506 for more information. 

PLEASE All items one DROP dollar DONATIONS with a special ON "over THE dollar" PORCH room. AT 

PLEASE DROP DONATIONS ON THE PORCH AT 

434 Colfax Ave. (street side) Grass Valley 

CASH DONATIONS ARE ALWAYS APPRECIATED 


How Animal Rescue Found Me 

By Hannah Turner 

I have always loved animals. As far back as I can 

remember I brought home strays and begged to adopt 

every single one of them. When I finally had my own 

home, I saw a listing for a Labrador on Facebook who 

needed out of her current situation, and fast. When I 

picked her up, she was covered in feces and had a scab 

on her nose. After a few days of getting to know her in her 

new environment, I decided to name her Corra. I gave her 

space, earned her trust, and showed her the beauty 

of a new beginning. 

Meeting her is 

when I truly fell in 

love with rescue 

animals. It hadn’t 

ever occurred to 

me before that 

people actually 

mistreated their 

pets. 

In May of 2018, 

my family and I 

packed up our 

home in Wasilla, 

Alaska and drove 

back to my hometown 

of Penn 

Valley. I decided to 

take a semester off from pursuing my degree to get 

settled. We spent the summer barbecuing, catching up 

with family, and swimming in the Yuba, which was a 

completely new experience for Corra. 

As the summer drew to a close, fires broke out all over 

California. It hit close to home for me when on November 

8th the Camp Fire broke out in Paradise, CA, just shy of 

60 miles north of where I lived. My husband Travis, friend 

Bree, and I were wondering what we could do to help 

when another friend posted on Facebook about making a 

trip to the evacuation sites and shelters with the volunteers 

of Ruff Pack Refuge, a local dog rescue. We had an 

empty Jeep and wanted to help, so we headed to 

Northwest SPCA in Oroville, CA. Upon arriving, we 

were tasked with playing with a litter of puppies that 

Ruff Pack Refuge would be taking back to Nevada 

County. Regardless of the dense smoke in the air around 

us, I was in heaven, loving on those puppies and knowing 

that we could help find them homes. We met many 

amazing people caring for the animals there, including the 

puppies’ foster mom Nancy. They worked tirelessly to 

examine, vaccinate, and prepare over 20 dogs and cats 

for us to take back, in order to allow room in their shelter 

for the evacuated pets from Paradise. 

When we got 

home, I was 

hooked. I wanted to 

help in any way 

that I could and I 

felt a huge responsibility 

to the 

animals that we 

had helped rescue. 

I was bonded to 

them, I saw where 

they came from, I 

heard their stories, 

Hannah (second from left) and other 

amazing volunteers who came 

to the aid of animals in need. 

and I wanted to see 

them all end up in 

their forever homes 

with loving families. 

So I kept coming 

back for more. Any opportunity I had to help the Ruff Pack 

volunteer team and their mission, I took. Now that we had 

over 20 new animals in our care, we needed to organize 

foster homes and adoptions for each of them. When 

Nicole Mizener, Director of Ruff Pack Refuge, asked if I 

would be interested in helping with this, I gladly accepted. 

I looked forward to the challenge. I quickly learned how to 

do home checks, vet potential fosters and adopters, and 

complete adoptions. 

The volunteers of Ruff Pack Refuge worked day and 

night to do the best they could for the animals we had 

rescued. The community that we live in is a giving and 

generous one; people wanted to help in whatever way 

they could. We had an outpouring of 

donations, social media shares and 

an abundance of families opening their 

homes to foster animals. Twenty-one 

of these incredible families committed 

to permanently adopting a pet. 

The animals were examined by a 

veterinarian, treated, and spayed or 

neutered prior to being put up for 

adoption. This is no small feat, and it 

was made possible by the people in 

our amazing community! 

Though my experience in the 

animal welfare community has been 

brief, I look forward to working 

with all of the people who make up this 

community, in the future. I wasn’t 

looking for a new passion, but I think 

it's safe to say that a new passion 

found me. 


Molly’s Diagnosis 

Molly’s lab results indicated no urinary tract or kidney 

problems. Her blood glucose and thyroid levels were 

normal. There was an increase in one of her liver 

enzymes, and with further testing we diagnosed Molly 

with Cushing’s disease. 

Cushing’s disease is a common endocrine (hormonal) 

problem that primarily affects middle-aged and senior 

dogs. It is very treatable. Also known as hyperadrenocorticism 

due to the excessive production of cortisol by 

the adrenal glands. 

Symptom of Cushing’s Disease include: 

· Increased Thirst, Urination and Appetite 

· Panting · Pot-Bellied Appearance 

· Changes to Skin and Fur 

If you observe the aforementioned symptoms, 

schedule a consult with your dog’s veterinarian. The 

diagnosis and subsequent treatment of Cushing’s 

disease is important for maintaining your dog’s health 

and quality of life. With appropriate care, dogs with 

Cushing’s disease can lead long and happy lives. 

Susan Murphy, D.V.M. 521 Searls Ave. Nevada City 

530-265-3722 www.fourpawsac.com 

Lost a pet? 

Found a stray? 

Register your pet for FREE on Finding Rover, the app 

that uses pet facial recognition at Findingrover.com. 

Family owned & operated. 

Serving Nevada County since 1998. 

Specializing in Tree Establishment, 

Maintenance and Preservation 

· Aero Acton ISA Certified Arborist 

#WE-4022A 

· ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualified 

(530) 477-9822 

www.leafittome.com 

Grazing Goats Aid in Fire Prevention 

Nevada City realizes the importance of 

reducing the fire risk throughout our city-owned 

properties. After working for weeks with local 

ranchers to launch a goat/sheep prescriptive 

grazing on city-owned land we have now launched 

a Goat Fund Me Nevada City crowd-funding campaign 

to cover the costs until grants can be secured. 

In addition, we will provide tips, tools, and 

best practices for the public. 

We will ultimately have hand-crews follow 

behind the grazing goats to reduce even more 

fire load as well as remove the hundreds of 

abandoned homeless camps on our lands and in 

Goats grazing photo by Madeline Toro 

our watershed. Ultimately, it is the city’s goal to 

restore its 450 acres of greenbelt, setting an 

example for other cities and the community itself! 

We have to think creatively and we have to get a jump on it while the 

weather is cool! Remember, “The More We Raise, The More We Graze!” 

For more information, check out the ‘Goat Fund Me’ Nevada City campaign 

at gofundme.com/GoatFundMeNevadaCity. 


Stop Pet Overpopulation ... Spay or Neuter Your Pets! 

Pet overpopulation is a BIG problem! 

There are too many pets and not enough 

homes to go around. By having pets spayed 

and neutered, we can reduce the number of 

unwanted puppies and kittens. Help spread this 

important message by making flip books using 

the pictures below and giving them to others. 

FLIP BOOK DIRECTIONS: 

1. Cut out the 12 pictures and 

stack them in order. 

2. Staple the pages together 

on the left side. 

3. Flip quickly through the 

book and watch the picture 

change. 

Reprinted with permission from Humane Society Youth, publishers of KIND News, 67 Norwich Essex Turnpike, 

East Haddam, CT 06423-1736, © 2019, www.humanesociety.org/youth. 

BeBe & Zim 

get ready for 

their special 

Valentine’s Day 

dinner! 

Bring in this add and receive 

50% OFF 

your first 3 months of membership. 


View From the Camp Fire: 

Working Together in Rescue 

By Shelley Frost, Director, CAPE Creative 

The story came across the news just like all the 

previous stories about a new wildfire coming to life 

somewhere in California. I started paying closer attention 

when I heard it was in Butte County, an area a little over 

an hour away, just north of Grass Valley. 

Living in Nevada County we are used to the odor of 

wildfire smoke in the late 

summer and early fall 

months. But this fire was 

raging in mid-November. 

We were experiencing 

first hand mother nature’s 

new rules. The environment, 

humans and animals 

are now suffering the 

consequences of global 

warming. 

The fire was soon 

labeled the Camp Fire, 

and news outlets were 

describing its super-sonic speed and destruction. With 

whole neighborhoods in Paradise aflame, loss of life 

seemed inevitable. 

Facebook was filled with video of cars hurtling through 

smoke, cinders and flames. We heard of families barely 

having time to grab precious photos and the family dog. 

I saw videos of car interiors where people and cats cried 

together. 

For those of us south of the raging inferno, smoke 

arrived, forcing us indoors for days on end. During those 

days of low level anxiety, the remedy was to get active 

and help those who were suffering. 

Hundreds of dogs, cats and other small animals were 

evacuated from the fire zone and given shelter at the 

Chico airport and other safe locations. Organizations from 

Nevada County jumped into action by helping to empty the 

already full shelters in the area in order to make room 

for the animal evacuees. Food, beds, collars and leashes 

were gathered at drop off points in our county and dozens 

of volunteers transported the supplies to the temporary 

shelter locations. 

The Center for Animal Protection & Education (CAPE) 

learned that hundreds of large animals evacuated from 

their ranches and farms were safe at the Butte County 

Fairgrounds. Volunteers caring for the animals put out 

pleas for grass hay for the cows, horses and donkeys, and 

feed for goats, pigs, chickens, and rabbits. 

They needed shovels, wheelbarrows and straw. And 

they needed all of these things in huge quantities that 

could be re-supplied as the weeks went by. 

CAPE placed a notice on Facebook seeking donations 

for these supplies, and the people in Grass Valley and 

surrounding communities leapt into action. Thousands of 

dollars were raised. People volunteered their trucks to 

drive feed up to Butte County. 

Within two days, a caravan was planned for the trip. 

But before we could launch, the CAPE truck was down for 

the count and needed repairs. When we went to pick 

up the truck and pay for the service, the local mechanic 

had learned of the supply mission, and our money was 

refused. 

The morning came where all the trucks and cars drove 

into the Pearson’s Feed parking lot in Penn Valley. All the 

vehicles were loaded with high quality grass hay and feed 

for the animals. When we went to pay the bill, one of 

the employees slid a wad of cash across the countertop, 

wanting to do his part to help the animals. 

The drive to the Butte County Fairgrounds took us into 

a climate of thick, soupy smoke. We arrived and donned 

our facemasks. Volunteers guided us to the supply 

drop off area. Two veterinarians, when they saw the high 

quality grass hay, began 

to cry. 

Up and down the 

main road behind the 

fairgrounds, hundreds of 

animals – horses, cows, 

and donkeys – were in 

small corrals. Vet techs 

were visiting each 

animal, clipboards in 

gloved hands. We were 

asked not to take photos. 

The generosity of our 

community on behalf of 

homeless animals affected 

by the fire, had a powerful affect on me and all the 

volunteers. Because of the folks who opened their wallets 

and made it possible to bring desperately needed supplies 

for the animals, so much suffering was prevented. 

EMERGENCY PREPARATION FOR YOUR PETS 

· Have a crate ready for your animal(s) that is the right size 

for him or her. Practice with your animal getting them into 

the crate so that it is easy and familiar for them. It will make 

it easier for you both. 

· Make sure you have organized important documentation 

for your animal(s) including, Special needs documentation 

(a list of the pet’s current physical disabilities or illnesses, 

emotional or behavioral problems and how to deal with 

them, special feeding schedule requirements, dietary 

restrictions, allergies), copies of ownership records 

(adoption records, registration paperwork, pet health 

insurance policies, municipal or county license tags and 

paperwork), microchip paperwork. 

· Create a kit for your animals in a plastic tub and use a 

sharpie to update the contents inside. Some items to include 

are a 3-7 day supply of food, a can opener and spoon if your 

animal is eating canned food, water and food dishes, clean 

water for 3-7 days, collar or harness, leash, cat litter tray and 

scoop, bedding, toys, dog waste bags, first aid kit, and 

cleaning supplies including spray disinfectant and paper 

towel. Keep the kit where it will not get too hot or too cold. 

· Keep a list of important animal-related telephone 

numbers since internet access may difficult. Include veterinarian, 

local animal control agency, animal shelter/boarding 

facility, list of nearby animal-friendly hotels, and even friends 

that may be willing to temporarily take your animal(s) while 

you are away from home. This may be neighbors who 

are part of a buddy system network where neighbors help 

evacuate each other’s animal companions. 


PO Box 1687 

Cedar Ridge, CA 

95924 

2 

3 

SCOOTER'S PALS is an all-volunteer rescue, unique in 

that we pay no salaries so our animals receive all donated funds - 

which helps cover mostly the cost of vet care and food. 

We need your support to continue doing this good work. 

Please consider volunteering, fostering or donating to us. 

Scooter's Pals local Adoptathon is the fourth Sat. of each month 

at Petco, 672 Freeman Lane in Grass Valley from 11 am - 2 pm. 

The next adoption day is January 26. Also held in Sacramento and 

Davis at locations to be announced or posted on our web page. 

Check out our new (volunteer created) website! 

www.scooterspals.org 

1 

4 5 

1. ERNIE - 7-YO male 

2. HENRY - 8-YO male 

3. KEISHA - 9-YO female 

4. LITTLE BOB - 1-YO female 

5. SAMMY - 3-YO male 

6. WHITNEY - 7-YO female 

6 

"Blessed is the person who has earned the love of an old dog." - Sydney Jeanne Seward 

Extending compassion to all life with 

a special emphasis on farmed animals. 

Open Monday-Saturday 

10-4 pm 

www.AnimalPlace.org 


Rescue for Pet Sake 

Adopt · Foster · Volunteer · Donate 

BAILEY NOEL PAISLEY PAMIE 

LOLA 

HOBIE EMMA 

BUDDY 

KIWI TEDDIE 

120 Bank St. Grass Valley, CA 95945 

530-263-3331 · Email: forpetsake@sbcglobal.net · www.rescueforpetsake.org

CA-FEB19-WEB

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?