05.09.2019 Views

Cats and Dogs Magazine Fall 2019

Cats and Dogs is a West Michigan based publication. It’s focus is companion animals and features local advertisers, rescue groups and articles. It promotes rescue and spay/neuter.

Cats and Dogs is a West Michigan based publication. It’s focus is companion animals and features local advertisers, rescue groups and articles. It promotes rescue and spay/neuter.

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

Create successful ePaper yourself

Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.

B<br />

Y<br />

cats <strong>and</strong> DOGS<br />

A <strong>Magazine</strong> Devoted to Companion Animals<br />

Koby<br />

Koby’s Promise – Page 31<br />

Heather Clark <strong>and</strong> Rachel Jensen<br />

Pleasant Hearts Pet Food Pantry – Page 13<br />

Allie Good–Gadziemski with Moana <strong>and</strong> Mowgli.<br />

Dominion Sanctuary – Page 11<br />

On the Wild Side – Page 12<br />

<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong><br />

FREE


Animals for Adoption<br />

CONTENTS<br />

Cannonsville Critters ...................................................<br />

7<br />

Noah Project ........................................................................<br />

9<br />

BestPals Animal Rescue ..................................................<br />

10<br />

Reuben’s Room Cat Rescue ............................................<br />

15<br />

Carol’s Ferals .......................................................................<br />

17<br />

Muskegon Humane Society .........................................<br />

23<br />

Crash’s l<strong>and</strong>ing .................................................................<br />

25<br />

Almost Every Month<br />

Business Card Directory ..............................................<br />

Willow’s World ..................................................................<br />

On the Wild Side ................................................................<br />

Ask the Trainer ...................................................................<br />

Cat Corner ............................................................................<br />

Furry Philosophy ..............................................................<br />

Community Resource Guide .......................................<br />

Features<br />

Kent County Animal Shelter needs you .............<br />

Dominion Sanctuary .....................................................<br />

Pleasant Hearts Pet Food Pantry ...........................<br />

Shelter Statistics ..............................................................<br />

CBD oil for pets..................................................................<br />

Koby’s Promise ......................................................................<br />

5<br />

6<br />

12<br />

14<br />

19<br />

22<br />

28<br />

4<br />

11<br />

13<br />

20<br />

24<br />

31<br />

Furry Philosophy<br />

Page 22<br />

Namiko Ota-Noveskey<br />

<strong>and</strong> Dutchess<br />

Kent County Animal Shelter<br />

Page 4<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong><br />

PO Box 996, Jenison, MI 49429-0996<br />

616-777-0645<br />

cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine@comcast.net<br />

www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong>, founded in 2006, is a free publication<br />

supported by advertisers. <strong>Magazine</strong>s are distributed throughout<br />

Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon <strong>and</strong> surrounding counties. We<br />

are not responsible for services <strong>and</strong> products advertised. All<br />

rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced<br />

without permission from the publisher.<br />

<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

Publisher: Janet Vormittag<br />

Owner: JLV Enterprises LLC<br />

Deadlines<br />

Spring: Feb. 15 - Summer: May 15<br />

<strong>Fall</strong>: August 15 - Winter: Nov. 15<br />

Home delivery of <strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> is $16 per year. Make your<br />

check payable to <strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> <strong>and</strong> mail to:<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong>, P.O. Box 996, Jenison, MI 49429-0996<br />

Advertising information:<br />

616-777-0645 - cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine@comcast.net<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 3


Kent County Animal Shelter<br />

looking for volunteers<br />

By Janet Vormittag<br />

After 13 years of working at the Humane Society of<br />

West Michigan, Namiko Ota-Noveskey took over the<br />

reins at the Kent County Animal Shelter. She started May<br />

13 as the Animal Shelter Program Supervisor.<br />

“I think I’m so much more useful here. There’s so<br />

much potential to do good. It’s exciting to see things<br />

happen,” she said.<br />

Namiko said her biggest challenge is functioning with<br />

the absolute minimum number of staff. “We really need<br />

to involve the community.”<br />

While there are a few volunteers who help at the<br />

shelter, there isn’t an official volunteer program. Namiko<br />

wants to change that. Besides walking dogs, volunteers<br />

could foster kittens <strong>and</strong> other animals who would do<br />

better in a home setting, they could help with fundraising,<br />

provide enrichment activities for shelter animals <strong>and</strong> help<br />

with community events. She would love it if volunteers<br />

took a dog for an afternoon to give them a break from<br />

being in a kennel.<br />

“Animals are a community issue,” she added.<br />

Namiko replaced Carly Luttmann who resigned in<br />

September 2018 after complaints about high euthanasia<br />

rates.<br />

Namiko said shelters shouldn’t be judged by<br />

euthanasia numbers alone. She thinks they should be<br />

judged by the quality of care given to animals while they<br />

are at the shelter.<br />

“Every animal should be given a chance, but it’s not<br />

enough to just feed them <strong>and</strong> give them toys. They need<br />

mental stimulation,” she said. “This is a transitional<br />

place, but they still need a quality of life. We really need<br />

volunteers to make that happen.”<br />

She said before she was hired, shelter staff was<br />

already working to increase the live-release rate by<br />

transferring more animals to other shelters <strong>and</strong> rescues<br />

<strong>and</strong> by increasing adoptions.<br />

In the month of June 2018, homes were found for<br />

67 animals. In June <strong>2019</strong>, homes were found for 132<br />

animals.<br />

Namiko said the staff <strong>and</strong> animal control officers are<br />

hard-working <strong>and</strong> dedicated.<br />

“It’s important to us that the adopted animals stay in<br />

the home,” she said. Staff does adoption follow-up to help<br />

resolve any issues people may have with having a new<br />

animal as part of their household.<br />

The Kent County Animal shelter is an openadmissions<br />

shelter meaning they don’t turn away any<br />

animals brought to them. They also take in strays.<br />

By law, strays who have an indication of ownership<br />

such as a collar, tags or microchip have to be held<br />

for seven business days. Without any indication of<br />

ownership, they have to be held four business days.<br />

Namiko Ota-Noveskey, the new Program Supervisor at<br />

the Kent County Animal Shelter <strong>and</strong> Dutchess, an owner<br />

surrendered cat who has anxiety <strong>and</strong> shares Namiko’s<br />

office until a new home can be found for her.<br />

There are no laws regarding the hold time of cats, but<br />

generally the guidelines for dogs are followed.<br />

“There’s a significant difference in the reclaim of dogs<br />

<strong>and</strong> cats,” Namiko said. “People don’t know how to find<br />

their cats.”<br />

In 2018, 677 dogs <strong>and</strong> 28 cats were returned to their<br />

owners.<br />

<strong>Dogs</strong> running loose tend to get picked up by animal<br />

control. <strong>Cats</strong> are independent, good at hiding <strong>and</strong> can<br />

survive on their own. By the time they get brought to<br />

the shelter, their owner has usually already given up any<br />

hope of finding them.<br />

To help reunite stray pets with their owners, the<br />

shelter recently started using FindingRover.com, which<br />

uses facial recognition software. Pet owners posts photos<br />

of their missing pet, <strong>and</strong> the shelter posts photos of<br />

strays. It’s too early to say what impact the technology<br />

will have on reclaim statistics.<br />

Namiko has a master’s degree in applied psychology<br />

<strong>and</strong> keeps current on research regarding shelter animals.<br />

She has assessed thous<strong>and</strong>s of dogs <strong>and</strong> said behavior<br />

assessments should be an information-gathering tool, not<br />

a pass-fail test. While she believes every animal deserves<br />

a chance, she said some dogs are not safe to have in the<br />

community.<br />

“Sometimes it’s really sad, but if the last kind thing<br />

we can do is euthanasia, then that’s what we do. It is our<br />

commitment to give every animal a chance for a happy<br />

life. Even if appears to be a small chance, it is our job to<br />

try our best.”<br />

If you are interested in volunteering at the Kent<br />

County Animal Shelter, 740 Fuller Ave. NE, Gr<strong>and</strong><br />

Rapids, you can stop by <strong>and</strong> fill out an application or<br />

email Namiko at namiko.ota-noveskey@kentcountymi.<br />

gov. They’re open Monday-Thursday 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.<br />

<strong>and</strong> Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 4 www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com • <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong>


BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY<br />

Oak Haven<br />

Providing all the dignity your<br />

Forever Friend deserves<br />

616-949-1390<br />

www.noahspetcemetery.com<br />

noahspc@comcast.net<br />

Need more<br />

customers, clients or volunteers?<br />

Advertise in<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong><br />

A <strong>Magazine</strong> Devoted to Companion Animals<br />

C S AL P H<br />

Reach more than 12,000 people<br />

who care about pets.<br />

Contact us at:<br />

cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine@comcast.net<br />

616-777-0645<br />

<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 5


Willow’s World<br />

The Wet Dog<br />

By Tricia L. McDonald<br />

Whenever my daughter <strong>and</strong> her husb<strong>and</strong> come<br />

to visit, their dog Lyle jumps out of the car <strong>and</strong> heads<br />

straight for the pond. Through my garden <strong>and</strong> across<br />

the lawn, he runs. No amount of yelling stops him from<br />

that sparkling water…his destination. He takes a huge<br />

doggy leap <strong>and</strong> splash! he l<strong>and</strong>s in the water. I swear he<br />

is smiling the whole time. I find myself smiling too! Every<br />

time they come over, he does the exact same thing.<br />

I’ve always wanted a dog that liked to swim. I’ve seen<br />

videos of dogs swimming with their owners <strong>and</strong> it looks<br />

like so much fun. For the owner <strong>and</strong> the dog!<br />

Eli, our Jack Russell/Australian cattledog, came to<br />

us with his own attitude <strong>and</strong> that included no interest in<br />

swimming.<br />

When we got Sally I thought I might have a chance<br />

with her. It wasn’t to be. Sally would tease me by wading<br />

in the pond, but only until her tummy started to get wet.<br />

That didn’t work for her <strong>and</strong> she was out of there! Once<br />

she was chasing Jacob around the pond <strong>and</strong> she tried<br />

to catch him by taking a short cut. The short cut turned<br />

out to be deeper water <strong>and</strong> she disappeared underwater.<br />

When she popped back up, it was as if she could walk on<br />

water. She was out of that water pronto! I thought maybe<br />

the breed didn’t like to swim, but I’ve seen lots of photos<br />

of bull terriers swimming. So what the heck?<br />

It wasn’t that Sally didn’t like to get wet, because she<br />

always went a little crazy whenever we got the hose out.<br />

She would jump <strong>and</strong> bite at the stream of water for as<br />

long as we would hold the hose. So what’s the difference<br />

between a pond of water <strong>and</strong> a hose of water?<br />

When Willow joined our family, I thought I had<br />

another chance. If I introduced her to water when she<br />

was a puppy, maybe she would become a swimmer. First,<br />

I took her in the shower with me. Sadly, she seemed to<br />

enjoy rolling around on the towels afterwards more than<br />

the actual shower.<br />

I discovered she had an obsession with balls, so I<br />

would throw one into the pond to tempt her into jumping<br />

in the water to get it. She would pace at the edge of the<br />

pond <strong>and</strong> just like Sally, she would wade in until her<br />

tummy got wet. Then she was done. It seemed she was<br />

following in Sally’s dry paw prints.<br />

I had heard <strong>and</strong> believed that bulldogs couldn’t swim,<br />

so when Ernie (our French bulldog) joined our family,<br />

I never even considered he would be interested in the<br />

pond. I would soon learn I was mistaken.<br />

Willow taught Ernie the enjoyment of playing with<br />

balls. If they are outside together, there has to be at least<br />

three balls out with them. One for Willow, one for Ernie<br />

<strong>and</strong> the third is for when either of them loses their ball.<br />

Often Willow will take her ball to a small hill by the<br />

pond. She sits at the top of the incline <strong>and</strong> drops her ball.<br />

It starts rolling <strong>and</strong> sometimes Willow is able to catch it<br />

before it hits the water. Other times (<strong>and</strong> more often than<br />

not), she misses <strong>and</strong> it ends up in the pond. That is it<br />

because Willow is not going to go in <strong>and</strong> get it.<br />

Along comes Ernie! He spots the ball floating in the<br />

pond <strong>and</strong> whoosh! He takes a superman leap <strong>and</strong> l<strong>and</strong>s<br />

in the water. I expect to see him struggling, but instead<br />

he dog-paddles out to the middle of the pond <strong>and</strong> tries<br />

to grab the ball in his mouth. When he mouths it, the<br />

ball sinks <strong>and</strong> pops up a bit away from him. He chases it<br />

around in the pond until he gets it in his mouth. Then he<br />

swims to the side <strong>and</strong> climbs out—the victor!<br />

Now that I have my swimming dog, I realize it isn’t<br />

as wonderful as I thought it would be. Ernie spends a<br />

good deal of time smelling like a wet dog. Have you ever<br />

smelled a wet dog? Let’s just say I don’t think it is ever<br />

going to be made into a c<strong>and</strong>le scent.<br />

You can purchase Life With Sally: Little White Dog<br />

Tails, Still Spinnin’ Tails, Waggin’ More Tails <strong>and</strong><br />

Princess Tails in Gr<strong>and</strong> Haven at Must Love <strong>Dogs</strong><br />

<strong>and</strong> The Bookman; in Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids at Schulers<br />

Books. You can order books at amazon.com. The cost<br />

is $13.95. The books are also available on Kindle <strong>and</strong><br />

Nook for $5.99.<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 6 www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com • <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong>


<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 7


<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 8 www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com • <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong>


<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 9


A special thanks to Noah’s Pet Cemetery & Crematory for sponsoring our page.<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 10 www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com • <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong>


Dominion Sanctuary<br />

By Janet Vormittag<br />

Allie Good–Gadziemski has always been attracted to<br />

pigs. “They seem so vulnerable <strong>and</strong> human-like in their<br />

personality,” she said.<br />

Three years ago Allie, her husb<strong>and</strong>, Jim, <strong>and</strong> their<br />

four sons took an RV trip to Farm Sanctuary in New York.<br />

After a tour of the farm, they spent the afternoon in the<br />

pig barn with the animals who fascinate Allie.<br />

“They were so magical <strong>and</strong> peaceful,” she recalled. “I<br />

felt like I was in a movie with majestic creatures.”<br />

The visit had a profound impact on Allie <strong>and</strong> her<br />

family. Two years after the road-trip, they moved from<br />

Ada to a 12-acre farm in Sparta with the intention of<br />

starting a sanctuary for pigs <strong>and</strong> other farm animals.<br />

Their mission is to provide a loving permanent<br />

home for rejected <strong>and</strong> ab<strong>and</strong>oned animals <strong>and</strong> to spread<br />

compassion throughout the community. In January <strong>2019</strong>,<br />

the sanctuary became a 501 c 3 non-profit organization.<br />

Last spring, they took in their first residents, three<br />

homeless potbelly pigs; Big Carlos, Moana <strong>and</strong> Mowgli.<br />

Soon three chickens joined the family, Bosco, Allie <strong>and</strong><br />

Ariella. In August, they took in an ab<strong>and</strong>oned pig named<br />

Margaret.<br />

While they can legally have up to 30 animals on their<br />

acreage, Allie said they are being cautious <strong>and</strong> mindful of<br />

growth. “We don’t want to get in over our heads or lose<br />

the enjoyment factor.”<br />

They recently held a fund-raiser for fencing materials<br />

so they could provide a home to three pigs from a 74-<br />

pig seizure. They needed $2,000 <strong>and</strong> more than $2,100<br />

was donated. “It was phenomenal,” Allie said of the<br />

community support. The pigs arrived mid-August.<br />

They chose the name Dominion Sanctuary hoping<br />

the name would encourage people to think about what<br />

dominion means. Allie is saddened by the religious use<br />

of the word dominion to condone unnecessary violent<br />

choices.<br />

“True dominion is caring <strong>and</strong> being responsible for<br />

who is in our care. Participating in the violent cycle of<br />

meat <strong>and</strong> dairy industries is not acting in compliance<br />

with dominion, but I know people don’t realize how<br />

easy it is to make changes. Our traditions run so deep.<br />

Habits are ingrained. It’s hard to even think about it.<br />

It was for me. You can eat healthy <strong>and</strong> live a peaceful<br />

compassionate life without meat <strong>and</strong> dairy. The animals<br />

here help people make that realization, just by being who<br />

they are.”<br />

Allie grew up eating meat, but as a child had a soft<br />

spot for animals. “My heart would break for animals I<br />

didn’t even know,” she said.<br />

When she was 20 years old she became a vegan, even<br />

throwing away her down-filled pillow <strong>and</strong> beeswax chap<br />

stick. Vegans don’t eat meat, dairy products, eggs, honey<br />

<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

Left: Allie Good–<br />

Gadziemski with Ariella<br />

<strong>and</strong> Bosco.<br />

Below: Allie with Moana<br />

<strong>and</strong> Mowgli.<br />

or use any products derived from animals such as leather.<br />

Allie changed when she became pregnant with her<br />

first child. She felt a need to fit into society, <strong>and</strong> to her<br />

that meant eating a traditional American diet including<br />

meat. She used to tell her kids someday she would be<br />

vegan again. “The social conditioning is so strong. I knew<br />

the facts but couldn’t change.”<br />

Four years ago, her then-12-year-old son visited a<br />

friend whose pet rabbit had been butchered for meat.<br />

He came home <strong>and</strong> asked her if that someday could be<br />

immediately, <strong>and</strong> he would join her. Mother <strong>and</strong> son<br />

became vegetarians <strong>and</strong> shortly after that vegans.<br />

“I’ve always known the dairy industry is part of the<br />

meat industry. It’s all connected,” she said. Dairy cows<br />

give birth to produce milk. The babies are taken from<br />

them <strong>and</strong> sold for veal or raised to be dairy cows or<br />

butchered for meat. “The suffering is terrible.”<br />

It didn’t take long for the younger sons to join their<br />

mom <strong>and</strong> brother in their lifestyle change. A year later,<br />

Jim did too. Allie said everyone’s path to eating a plantbased<br />

diet is different <strong>and</strong> she wants the sanctuary to<br />

support <strong>and</strong> encourage people on their journey. “If their<br />

heart is open, getting to know an animal, looking into<br />

their eyes, can make a big difference.”<br />

Allie’s non-profit holds Pigs & Kids Programs where<br />

children can have fun, meet the animals, learn about pigs<br />

<strong>and</strong> chickens <strong>and</strong> enjoy some plant-based snacks. “They<br />

can see the animals as individuals,” she said. “Meeting<br />

the chickens <strong>and</strong> pigs plant the seeds of compassion.”<br />

For more information visit www.dominionsanctuary.<br />

org. You can also follow them on Facebook, Instagram<br />

<strong>and</strong> YouTube.<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> -11


On the Wild<br />

Side<br />

with Allyson Swanson<br />

Early this spring, when I first received the call about<br />

a baby otter found on the banks of the Gr<strong>and</strong> River I was<br />

astonished. Having been part of a couple beaver rescues<br />

just weeks before, I was willing to believe it possible. I<br />

imagined a sweet, quiet, fluffy baby otter arriving. What I<br />

received was a little different. Enter our first baby mink of<br />

the year. Mink are semi-aquatic carnivorous weasels. The<br />

poor baby fit in the palm of my h<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> screamed its<br />

head off for 24 hours straight.<br />

We called her Banshee <strong>and</strong> she was a spunky baby.<br />

There was a short period of time when she got sick <strong>and</strong><br />

we thought we would lose her but with medical attention<br />

she rallied <strong>and</strong> continued to grow strong <strong>and</strong> healthy. A<br />

mink was a rare intake for us, so imagine our surprise<br />

when 3 more came in from different areas of Michigan.<br />

Hunter from Ludington, Pip from Holl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> Oboe<br />

from Gr<strong>and</strong> Haven. If I had thought one mink was a<br />

h<strong>and</strong>ful, four was chaos. Constant energy <strong>and</strong> curiosity!<br />

However, seeing them turn <strong>and</strong> frolic in a pool of water<br />

chasing minnows was as graceful <strong>and</strong> entertaining as any<br />

ballet.<br />

Mink stay with their mothers for quite a period of<br />

time to learn how to hunt, swim <strong>and</strong> evade predators. So<br />

when it came time to release them, we knew we needed to<br />

be picky with the area <strong>and</strong> provide them with a safe space<br />

to return to as they figured out how to live in the wild.<br />

We chose a beautiful riverside area in Whitehall to set up<br />

an enclosure <strong>and</strong> shelter for them while they got used to<br />

their new surroundings! But, in “mink style” they dug out<br />

the first night <strong>and</strong> set themselves free.<br />

Despite the vast amount of time, money <strong>and</strong> work<br />

that went into raising these “hellions” as we called<br />

them, knowing that they have their freedom back is a<br />

wonderful victory. I will always remember their separate<br />

personalities, shiny chocolate fur <strong>and</strong> their shrieking<br />

screams.<br />

Allyson Swanson is a Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator<br />

with Wildlife Rehab Center Ltd, 1504 Union Ave NE,<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids. She has been licensed since 2013 but<br />

started as a volunteer over fifteen years ago. Since<br />

then she has worked with countless species of birds<br />

<strong>and</strong> mammals <strong>and</strong> has become one of the main local<br />

resources for Virginia Opossums. She is also the Center’s<br />

Education Coordinator <strong>and</strong> does presentations with<br />

their Educational Ambassador animals. allyson@<br />

wildlife-rehab-center.org – 616-606-5805.<br />

Need more customers, clients or volunteers?<br />

Advertise in<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong><br />

A <strong>Magazine</strong> Devoted to Companion Animals<br />

Reach more than 12,000 people who care about pets.<br />

cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine@comcast.net<br />

616-777-0645<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 12 www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com • <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong>


Pleasant Hearts Pet Food Pantry<br />

helping keep pets in their homes<br />

By Janet Vormittag<br />

Rachel Jensen was bothered when people dropped off<br />

their pets at the Kent County Animal Shelter because they<br />

financially couldn’t afford to keep them. “Just because<br />

you lost your job doesn’t mean you should have to give up<br />

your pet,” she said.<br />

Rachel was an animal control officer <strong>and</strong> volunteer at<br />

the shelter for more than eight years.<br />

In December 2016, she <strong>and</strong> a h<strong>and</strong>ful of friends<br />

started Pleasant Hearts Pet Food Pantry. The pantry is a<br />

volunteer <strong>and</strong> donation based non-profit organization.<br />

Their goal is to ensure pets stay in their homes <strong>and</strong><br />

never have to experience shelter life.<br />

The pantry stocks food for dogs, cats, birds, rabbits<br />

<strong>and</strong> pocket pets. They also have other pet supplies such<br />

as carriers, crates, flea & tick products, toys, treats, beds,<br />

bowls <strong>and</strong> much more.<br />

They’re open every other Saturday from noon to 2<br />

p.m.<br />

While Rachel is excellent at community outreach,<br />

volunteer Heather Clark is using her management<br />

experience to keep the pantry running smoothly.<br />

The pantry does more than just offer pet supplies.<br />

They give tips on responsible pet ownership <strong>and</strong> direct<br />

people to low-income vaccination clinics.<br />

Within the year, they hope to have a grant so they can<br />

offer pet owners free or low-cost spay/neuter surgeries<br />

for their cats <strong>and</strong> dogs.<br />

“We feel very strongly that every animal should be<br />

spayed or neutered,” Heather said.<br />

Part of their five-year plan is to help pet owners with<br />

unexpected veterinarian medical bills. Rachel said while<br />

at the shelter she would also see people relinquish pets<br />

when the animals were injured or sick <strong>and</strong> the vet care<br />

was too expensive.<br />

The pet pantry relies on donations to keep their doors<br />

open. They have donation barrels in local businesses<br />

<strong>and</strong> an Ottawa County pet supply distributor gives them<br />

products when available.<br />

They are always in need of kitty litter, kibble <strong>and</strong><br />

canned food for both dogs <strong>and</strong> cats.<br />

Cash is always in need for such things as rent <strong>and</strong><br />

insurance. The women hold fundraising events. On<br />

Facebook, their birthday fundraisers benefit the pantry.<br />

In addition, they partner with local breweries <strong>and</strong><br />

restaurants that donate a portion of sales to non-profits.<br />

The Pantry was started in the basement of a dog<br />

training facility in Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids. In June, it was moved<br />

to 1539 Taylor Ave, #5, in Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids.<br />

Heather Clark, left, <strong>and</strong> Rachel Jensen in front of some<br />

of the supplies available from Pleasant Hearts Pet Food<br />

Pantry.<br />

Heather said the current location is perfect; it has air<br />

conditioning, the road isn’t busy, there’s a bathroom <strong>and</strong><br />

there’s room for everything onsite.<br />

They now have more than 300 clients.<br />

To receive help, pet owners must have photo<br />

identification, sign a waiver <strong>and</strong> provide information on<br />

their current pets.<br />

“We won’t service people who get new pets,” Rachel<br />

said.<br />

Both Rachel <strong>and</strong> Heather have full-time jobs. They<br />

also volunteer at the Wildlife Rehab Center in Gr<strong>and</strong><br />

Rapids. Rachel volunteers at Pound Buddies in Muskegon<br />

<strong>and</strong> fosters dogs.<br />

“Our hearts are full,” Heather said.<br />

Visit www.pleasantheartspetfoodpantry.org<br />

for more information or<br />

email info@pleasantheartspetfoodpantry.org. You can<br />

also follow the pantry on Facebook or Instagram.<br />

AMP X<br />

<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> -13


Call for an<br />

Appointment<br />

231-366-7067<br />

West Michigan<br />

Spay & Neuter Clinic<br />

(a 501c3 non-profit organization<br />

that accepts donations)<br />

A low-cost spay/neuter clinic.<br />

6130 Airline Road<br />

Fruitport, MI 49415<br />

www.wmspay<strong>and</strong>neuter.org<br />

info@wmspay<strong>and</strong>neuter.org<br />

In-Home Pet Care<br />

When You Can’t Be There<br />

THE CAT’S MEOW<br />

Pet Sitters<br />

Jeanine Buckner<br />

Veterinary Assistant<br />

616-791-9696<br />

Loving Home Care For Your Pet<br />

During my 18 years of working in veterinary<br />

medicine, I realized the need for an alternative to<br />

boarding. Thus, The Cat’s Meow Pet Sitters was created.<br />

By keeping your feline friend in her familiar home<br />

surroundings, you <strong>and</strong> your cat experience less stress<br />

while you are away. My first home visit with you <strong>and</strong><br />

your cat is at no charge. Information regarding medical<br />

care, instructions on feeding <strong>and</strong> watering, litter box<br />

patrol <strong>and</strong> playing with <strong>and</strong>/or grooming your cat will<br />

all be discussed. At no additional charge, bringing in<br />

mail <strong>and</strong>/or newspapers <strong>and</strong> watering plants can also<br />

be done. Pampering your cat in her/his own home is a<br />

wise alternative to boarding. Your cat will thank you!<br />

Jeanine Buckner, Owner<br />

Ask the Trainer<br />

Treat your leash like a service vest<br />

Often I see dogs being vilified for aggressive reactions<br />

while meeting other dogs on leash. In many cases, the<br />

behavior can be underst<strong>and</strong>able as dogs may not consider<br />

a face-to-face greet respectful.<br />

Though humans <strong>and</strong> dogs share similar social family<br />

structures, we have completely different social behaviors,<br />

<strong>and</strong> introduction rituals. When greeting, humans st<strong>and</strong><br />

face-to-face, plant feet, make hard eye contact, vocalize<br />

in excited happy loud tones, <strong>and</strong> lock h<strong>and</strong>s. <strong>Dogs</strong>, on<br />

the other h<strong>and</strong>, remain very calm <strong>and</strong> quiet, <strong>and</strong> do a<br />

ritualistic circular butt sniffing action. They do not stop<br />

moving, vocalize at each other, touch, or make hard eye<br />

contact. The greeting rituals of dogs <strong>and</strong> humans are 180°<br />

opposite of one another.<br />

When socializing in public with our dogs, as<br />

responsible owners, we should respect the greeting ritual<br />

differences. It’s easy to want to let our dog go face-toface<br />

on the street with another dog. This most often<br />

causes serious miscommunication between dogs. <strong>Dogs</strong><br />

do not have similar faces like humans do, <strong>and</strong> some dogs<br />

cannot make facial expressions others dogs can. Simply<br />

teaching our dogs that we are going to be respecting these<br />

differences will decrease bad experiences your dog will<br />

have on the walk.<br />

The leash should be considered a sort of “service<br />

vest”. When we see an actual service dog in public, we<br />

do not allow ourselves, our dogs, or even our children to<br />

run up to them. We know they should be respected as the<br />

dog is doing a job. When out in public on leash our dogs<br />

are also doing a job. They are under full control <strong>and</strong> must<br />

remain respectful to everyone <strong>and</strong> everything they see in<br />

public.<br />

To be responsible owners we should adopt the rule;<br />

the dog should NOT meet anyone on the leash (dog or<br />

human) for the first time, especially face-to-face with<br />

a strange dog. We should train in advance about how<br />

to properly greet a human so we can have exceptions<br />

to the rule for purposes of socializing during human<br />

interactions. Proper meeting of new dogs should be done<br />

with a very loose leash or off leash completely (i.e. doggy<br />

daycare, play dates, etc). Underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>and</strong> respecting<br />

these differences, while creating a simple rule, can greatly<br />

improve your dogs behavior <strong>and</strong> reputation on leash.<br />

Robert Crough, Professional Dog Trainer – Pack<br />

Rehab Specialist – Owner of Paradigm Dog School<br />

Paradigm Dog School: 616-886-4214<br />

paradigmds@gmail.com<br />

www.paradigmdogschool.com<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 14 www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com • <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong>


This Reuben’s<br />

Room page is<br />

sponsored by<br />

Sleepy Hollow Pet<br />

Cemetery.<br />

<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 15


<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 16 www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com • <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong>


<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 17


“Compassionate Care<br />

for all <strong>Cats</strong>.”<br />

Dedicated <strong>and</strong> compassionate care for your furry family<br />

member is our top priority. In a quiet <strong>and</strong> feline friendly<br />

environment we provide:<br />

* Internal medicine<br />

* Ultrasound <strong>and</strong> X-ray<br />

* Dentistry <strong>and</strong> oral surgery<br />

* Ophthalmologic surgery<br />

* Feline boarding<br />

* Routine vaccinations <strong>and</strong> examinations<br />

* Behavioral consultation<br />

* In-house <strong>and</strong> reference blood work <strong>and</strong> more<br />

Stop in <strong>and</strong> visit us at 3604 64th St., Saugatuck, Michigan or<br />

call us at 269-455-5056 to schedule an appointment.<br />

www.laketowncathospital.com<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 18 www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com • <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong>


<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 19


Humane Society of West Michigan<br />

(formerly Humane Society of Kent County)<br />

3077 Wilson Drive, Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids, MI 49534<br />

DOGS<br />

RECEIVED/ADMITTED:<br />

RETURNED TO OWNER:<br />

ADOPTED (Altered):<br />

ADOPTED (Not Altered):<br />

SOLD:<br />

TRANSFERS:<br />

SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED:<br />

OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:<br />

CATS<br />

RECEIVED/ADMITTED:<br />

RETURNED TO OWNER:<br />

ADOPTED (Altered):<br />

ADOPTED (Not Altered):<br />

SOLD:<br />

TRANSFERS:<br />

SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED:<br />

OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:<br />

2017 2018<br />

2,052<br />

20<br />

1,635<br />

25<br />

0<br />

19<br />

134<br />

217<br />

* Owner requested euthanized animals ARE included<br />

in intake totals.<br />

Harbor Humane Society (Ottawa County)<br />

14345 Bagley St., West Olive, MI 49460<br />

DOGS<br />

RECEIVED/ADMITTED:<br />

RETURNED TO OWNER:<br />

ADOPTED (Altered):<br />

ADOPTED (Not Altered):<br />

SOLD:<br />

TRANSFERED:<br />

SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED:<br />

OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:<br />

2,611<br />

13<br />

2,166<br />

23<br />

0<br />

12<br />

159<br />

195<br />

2017 2018<br />

1,339<br />

226<br />

943<br />

0<br />

0<br />

28<br />

74<br />

49<br />

1,878<br />

48<br />

1,318<br />

213<br />

0<br />

3<br />

67<br />

204<br />

2,363<br />

13<br />

1,924<br />

76<br />

0<br />

3<br />

95<br />

191<br />

1,458<br />

229<br />

1,131<br />

0<br />

0<br />

40<br />

71<br />

0<br />

Kent County Animal Shelter<br />

740 Fuller NE, Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids, MI 49503<br />

DOGS<br />

RECEIVED/ADMITTED:<br />

RETURNED TO OWNER:<br />

ADOPTED (Altered):<br />

ADOPTED (Not Altered):<br />

SOLD<br />

TRANSFERS:<br />

SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED:<br />

OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:<br />

CATS<br />

RECEIVED/ADMITTED:<br />

RETURNED TO OWNER:<br />

ADOPTED (Altered):<br />

ADOPTED (Not Altered):<br />

SOLD:<br />

TRANSFERS:<br />

SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED:<br />

OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:<br />

2017 2018<br />

* 2017 - Owner requested euthanized animals ARE<br />

NOT included in intake totals.<br />

* 2018 - Owner requested euthanized animals ARE<br />

included in intake totals.<br />

Allegan County Animal Shelter<br />

(Managed by Wishbone Pet Rescue since April 2011)<br />

2283 33rd St., Allegan, MI 49010<br />

2017 2018<br />

DOGS<br />

RECEIVED/ADMITTED:<br />

RETURNED TO OWNER:<br />

ADOPTED (Altered)<br />

ADOPTED (Not Altered):<br />

SOLD:<br />

TRANSFERS:<br />

SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED:<br />

OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:<br />

2,070<br />

649<br />

554<br />

6<br />

0<br />

131<br />

758<br />

229<br />

1,569<br />

29<br />

361<br />

0<br />

0<br />

551<br />

679<br />

247<br />

527<br />

176<br />

254<br />

8<br />

0<br />

3<br />

31<br />

24<br />

2,246<br />

677<br />

550<br />

13<br />

0<br />

202<br />

436<br />

354<br />

2,049<br />

28<br />

326<br />

0<br />

0<br />

1,038<br />

340<br />

310<br />

508<br />

---<br />

211<br />

23<br />

0<br />

4<br />

58<br />

12<br />

CATS<br />

RECEIVED/ADMITTED:<br />

RETURNED TO OWNER:<br />

ADOPTED (Altered):<br />

ADOPTED (Not Altered):<br />

SOLD:<br />

TRANSFERS:<br />

SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED:<br />

OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:<br />

1,712<br />

31<br />

1,165<br />

0<br />

0<br />

228<br />

265<br />

28<br />

2,003<br />

70<br />

1,494<br />

0<br />

0<br />

72<br />

177<br />

0<br />

* Owner requested euthanized animals ARE included<br />

in intake totals.<br />

CATS<br />

RECEIVED/ADMITTED:<br />

RETURNED TO OWNER:<br />

ADOPTED (Altered):<br />

ADOPTED (Not Altered):<br />

SOLD:<br />

TRANSFERS:<br />

SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED:<br />

OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:<br />

* 2017 - Owner requested euthanized<br />

animals ARE NOT included in intake totals.<br />

* 2018 - Owner requested euthanized animals ARE<br />

included in intake totals.<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 20 www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com • <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong><br />

348<br />

6<br />

249<br />

20<br />

0<br />

0<br />

27<br />

10<br />

302<br />

---<br />

241<br />

36<br />

0<br />

0<br />

12<br />

13


Pound Buddies Animal Shelter<br />

Muskegon County<br />

1300 E. Keating, Muskegon, MI 49442<br />

DOGS<br />

RECEIVED/ADMITTED:<br />

RETURNED TO OWNER:<br />

ADOPTED (Altered):<br />

ADOPTED (Not Altered):<br />

SOLD:<br />

TRANSFERS:<br />

SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED:<br />

OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:<br />

CATS<br />

RECEIVED/ADMITTED:<br />

RETURNED TO OWNER:<br />

ADOPTED (Altered):<br />

ADOPTED (Not Altered):<br />

SOLD:<br />

TRANSFERS:<br />

SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED:<br />

OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:<br />

2017 2018<br />

1,160<br />

346<br />

253<br />

264<br />

0<br />

168<br />

110<br />

10<br />

363<br />

16<br />

195<br />

49<br />

0<br />

56<br />

22<br />

9<br />

* . Owner requested euthanized animals ARE NOT<br />

included in intake totals.<br />

1,076<br />

380<br />

247<br />

176<br />

0<br />

160<br />

125<br />

9<br />

271<br />

4<br />

88<br />

39<br />

0<br />

81<br />

77<br />

4<br />

Every year the live-release rate from animal shelters<br />

improves, so a huge thanks to all the shelter workers,<br />

volunteers <strong>and</strong> rescue groups who help find homes for the<br />

cats <strong>and</strong> dogs in our shelters.<br />

Consider Adoption<br />

While homeless cats <strong>and</strong> dogs are being euthanized is<br />

shelters <strong>and</strong> humane societies, please consider adoption.<br />

Many of the dogs sold in pet stores, through classified ads<br />

<strong>and</strong> over the Internet come from puppy mills. Sometime<br />

puppy mills sell directly to consumers through websites<br />

designed to give the impression of a reputable breeder.<br />

A puppy mill is a massive breeding operation where<br />

hundreds of dogs are kept in overcrowded <strong>and</strong> often<br />

unsanitary conditions without proper veterinary care,<br />

food, water or human interaction. Puppies born in puppy<br />

mills are often sick, poorly socialized <strong>and</strong> have hereditary<br />

<strong>and</strong> congenital defects from being bred carelessly. The<br />

parents of the puppies can live their entire lives in a cage.<br />

If you decide to a buy a puppy directly from a breeder,<br />

don’t do so without seeing where the puppies <strong>and</strong><br />

their parents are raised <strong>and</strong> housed. Ask questions, get<br />

references.<br />

Please spay <strong>and</strong> neuter<br />

your pets.<br />

Ionia County Animal Shelter<br />

275 Sprague Road, Ionia, MI 48846<br />

DOGS<br />

RECEIVED/ADMITTED:<br />

RETURNED TO OWNER:<br />

ADOPTED (Altered):<br />

ADOPTED (Not Altered):<br />

SOLD<br />

TRANSFERS:<br />

SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED:<br />

OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:<br />

2017 2018<br />

500<br />

238<br />

233<br />

0<br />

0<br />

9<br />

10<br />

10<br />

647<br />

214<br />

189<br />

137<br />

0<br />

34<br />

21<br />

0<br />

Montcalm County Animal Shelter<br />

154 Quarterline St., Stanton, MI 4888<br />

2016 2018<br />

DOGS<br />

RECEIVED/ADMITTED:<br />

RETURNED TO OWNER:<br />

ADOPTED (Altered):<br />

ADOPTED (Not Altered):<br />

SOLD<br />

TRANSFERS:<br />

SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED:<br />

OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:<br />

340<br />

82<br />

161<br />

4<br />

0<br />

62<br />

14<br />

17<br />

200<br />

42<br />

55<br />

1<br />

0<br />

78<br />

5<br />

15<br />

CATS<br />

RECEIVED/ADMITTED:<br />

RETURNED TO OWNER:<br />

ADOPTED (Altered):<br />

ADOPTED (Not Altered):<br />

SOLD:<br />

TRANSFERS:<br />

SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED:<br />

OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:<br />

331<br />

10<br />

255<br />

0<br />

0<br />

17<br />

43<br />

6<br />

616<br />

13<br />

62<br />

297<br />

0<br />

30<br />

107<br />

0<br />

CATS<br />

RECEIVED/ADMITTED:<br />

RETURNED TO OWNER:<br />

ADOPTED (Altered):<br />

ADOPTED (Not Altered):<br />

SOLD:<br />

TRANSFERS:<br />

SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED:<br />

OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:<br />

636<br />

4<br />

340<br />

2<br />

0<br />

100<br />

171<br />

19<br />

312<br />

0<br />

68<br />

0<br />

0<br />

159<br />

56<br />

3<br />

* As of August 2017, this facility does not provide<br />

owner requested euthanasia.<br />

<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

* Owner requested euthanized animals ARE included<br />

in intake totals.<br />

* No numbers submitted for 2017.<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 21


F u r r y<br />

P h i l o s o p h y<br />

By Jodi Jarvis -Therrian<br />

“If people were superior to animals, they’d take<br />

better care of the world,” said a wise ol’ bear named<br />

Winnie the Pooh.<br />

What makes people think they need to be superior to<br />

animals? If you’ve read my articles before, I may sound<br />

like a broken record, but I believe one of my purposes in<br />

life is to help animals be better understood.<br />

Can humans detect cancer with<br />

no medical equipment only using<br />

their nose, find a missing person<br />

miles away or detect a bomb?<br />

Animals have different gifts <strong>and</strong><br />

talents than us. Even though they<br />

may not be able to speak words<br />

like we do, it does not make them<br />

less of a being. If we truly listen,<br />

we can underst<strong>and</strong>. Don’t we owe<br />

it to them to take the time to learn<br />

their language? Do they shun us<br />

because we don’t have their ability<br />

to detect things like cancer <strong>and</strong><br />

bombs that we could never even<br />

fathom? No! In fact, I believe what<br />

they have is superior to us in many<br />

ways. They know the art of loving<br />

unconditionally. No human has<br />

truly mastered that. They love us<br />

without judgement, with every<br />

ounce of their being. It matters<br />

not to them if we have a big cold sore or a zit on the end<br />

of our nose, they will give us a big old doggy smooch<br />

regardless. It is said, “humans that don’t have patience<br />

are the ones that want instant results. They won’t take the<br />

time to underst<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> will resort to dominance. ”<br />

Don’t we owe our loving, furry friends who give us<br />

unconditional love, at the very least, time <strong>and</strong> patience?<br />

We need to respect that living being enough to give them<br />

the time to underst<strong>and</strong> German, if they speak French. If<br />

you can get the same results in the end from being stern<br />

<strong>and</strong> dominant with a dog, as you can by earning their<br />

trust with using healthy, yummy treats, why not choose<br />

to treat? I would be extremely willing to learn French if<br />

someone was not st<strong>and</strong>ing over me yelling, but instead<br />

giving me a piece of cake every time I got it right. Your<br />

dog would trust you more <strong>and</strong> be eager to respond with<br />

joy instead of fearing the next time you call to them.<br />

Odin is making sure his message is heard<br />

loud <strong>and</strong> clear.<br />

Personally, I would rather be in a loving, trusting<br />

relationship then be dominated by anyone. In fact, I<br />

would rebel against the dominance. Your dog feels the<br />

same way. If you love them, why not choose to give them<br />

treats <strong>and</strong> find ways to learn in a fun way that encourages<br />

them to engage instead of slinking up to you in fear?<br />

Sometimes we can misinterpret the signs but if we<br />

pay close attention, they will spell it out for us.<br />

My aunt Susie recently told a story about her cute little<br />

rescue dog. I asked her if I could quote:<br />

“Never underestimate your dog. Jake was staring<br />

at me so I assumed he wanted out, went to the door but<br />

he wouldn’t go out, walked back into the living room, he<br />

would not stop staring. He had his dinner <strong>and</strong> nighttime<br />

treat already, what could he want? Low <strong>and</strong> behold I<br />

looked down <strong>and</strong> he was out of water! Don’t ever stop<br />

trying to figure out what they want, they will always let<br />

you know, you just have to listen.”<br />

Recently on a very early<br />

morning, I got up while my dog<br />

Odin was still sleeping <strong>and</strong> made<br />

his food <strong>and</strong> set it on the counter,<br />

<strong>and</strong> I hopped in the shower. I saw<br />

Odin’s shadow outside the shower<br />

curtain <strong>and</strong> I thought to myself,<br />

“I better hurry up. I know Odin<br />

is older <strong>and</strong> when he wakes up<br />

he wants to go straight outside.”<br />

When I got out of the shower, I<br />

realized I didn’t need to hurry to<br />

let him out. Apparently, he knew<br />

his food was sitting there <strong>and</strong> I saw<br />

him staring up at the counter, with<br />

his ears perked in his hurry up <strong>and</strong><br />

feed me look. Nope, not potty. I<br />

was wrong, oops, I heard French<br />

instead of German.<br />

If we keep listening, eventually<br />

we will learn their language.<br />

Keep connected at dogblessedllc.com, Facebook,<br />

Furry Philosophy <strong>and</strong> Memoirs Set in Stone, Dog Blessed<br />

LLC <strong>and</strong> Memory Stones by Jodi.<br />

Memory Stones by Jodi<br />

Honoring the memories of your loved ones in a beautiful<br />

way. Fur or ashes can be permanently fused in a<br />

stone that can be made into a sun catcher, keychain<br />

or jewelry.<br />

www.memorystonesbyjodi.com<br />

231-893-1227<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 22 www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com • <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong>


<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

This page paid for by Clock Timeless Pets!<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 23


CBD Oil for Pets<br />

CBD, a non-psychoactive component derived<br />

from the hemp plant, is becoming very popular with<br />

pet parents to treat many ailments including anxiety,<br />

allergies, pain/inflammation, seizures <strong>and</strong> much more.<br />

Deb Lewis, Certified Trainer, owner of <strong>Dogs</strong> Bay Inc.<br />

<strong>and</strong> Hempworx Affiliate, cautions pet owners to do their<br />

research when choosing CBD for their fur friends.<br />

“I am seeing amazing results with CBD, but not all<br />

CBD products are created equal,” she said.<br />

Deb recommends you look for the following:<br />

* Ingredients: Look for pure hemp products. Many<br />

contain fillers like MCT oil, coconut oil, olive oil, krill oil,<br />

lavender, glycerin <strong>and</strong> “other ingredients.” For purity <strong>and</strong><br />

maximum effectiveness, the only ingredient that should<br />

be in CBD oil is hemp.<br />

* Made in the USA: Make sure your product is grown<br />

<strong>and</strong> processed in the USA at an FDA approved farm/<br />

facility. Organic <strong>and</strong> Non GMO is preferred.<br />

* Third Party Testing: This is where the product is<br />

tested by an outside lab to assure purity, quality <strong>and</strong> that<br />

the product is free from pesticides <strong>and</strong> mold.<br />

* Customer Support: “What I love most about<br />

Hempworx is the training provided for the affiliates,”<br />

Deb said. “Every dog is different <strong>and</strong> the proper dosage<br />

is critical, especially in the beginning. When you buy<br />

your product from a pet store, video, grocery store or<br />

gas station, many employees know very little or just the<br />

basics about CBD products <strong>and</strong> it’s very doubtful they are<br />

going to properly guide you through the process <strong>and</strong>/or<br />

follow up to see how your pet is doing.”<br />

Deb also said there are a lot of misconceptions about<br />

CBD products. “CBD does not get your pet high. It is<br />

not marijuana; it is from the hemp plant. Many people<br />

ask why their veterinarian doesn’t recommend CBD. It’s<br />

because they are not allowed to. Like many all-natural<br />

products, it’s not yet approved by the FDA.”<br />

CBD is now legal in all 50 states.<br />

If you are concerned about the side effects of<br />

pharmaceuticals for your fur friend <strong>and</strong> are looking for<br />

an all-natural, safe alternative, consider giving CBD a try.<br />

Hempworx products come with a 60-day, empty bottle,<br />

money-back guarantee <strong>and</strong> don’t forget, CBD works just<br />

as well for human friends.<br />

Hempworx products can be purchased online<br />

at mydailychoice.com/deblewis or or dogsbay.net/cbd or<br />

at both <strong>Dogs</strong> Bay locations in Holl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> Saugatuck.<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 24 www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com • <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong>


<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 25


10% Off - A full grooming service<br />

Saturday appointments offered!!!<br />

Pet Grooming<br />

410 E Division St Ste E<br />

Sparta MI 49345<br />

Call today (616) 887-7060<br />

Doggie-paws.com<br />

Quick Fix<br />

Veterinary<br />

Clinic<br />

Offering affordable<br />

routine wellness care<br />

<strong>and</strong> spay/neuter services.<br />

Targeting areas south<br />

of Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids<br />

www.quickfixvet.com<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 26 www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com • <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong>


Saturday<br />

October 5, <strong>2019</strong><br />

barkinthedark.org<br />

616.791.8089<br />

Come Bark<br />

With Us.<br />

<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> -27


Community Resource Guide<br />

Cemeteries<br />

Clock Timeless Pets<br />

1469 Peck St., Muskegon, MI 49441<br />

231-722-3721 - www.clocktimelesspets.com<br />

Noah’s Pet Cemetery & Crematory<br />

2727 Orange Ave. SE, Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids, MI 49546<br />

616-949-1390 – noahspc@comcast.net<br />

www.noahspetcemetery.com<br />

Oak Haven Pet Crematorium & Cemetery<br />

10950 Northl<strong>and</strong> Dr., Rockford, MI 49341<br />

www.oakhavenpc.2295 – 616-866-2295<br />

Sleepy Hollow Pet Cemetery<br />

2755 64th St. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315<br />

616-538-6050 – www.sleepyhollowpc.com<br />

info@sleepyhollowpc.com<br />

Feral Cat Support Services<br />

A Feral Haven<br />

Supporting feral/community cats in Ottawa <strong>and</strong> Allegan Counties by<br />

loaning live traps, <strong>and</strong> providing spay/neuter vouchers <strong>and</strong> food.<br />

http://www.aferalhavenmi.org – 616-399-1774<br />

a.feral.haven.mi@gmail.com<br />

Humane Societies/Shelters<br />

Allegan County Animal Shelter<br />

2293 33rd Street, Allegan, MI 49010<br />

269-686-5112 - www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI299.html<br />

Harbor Humane Society<br />

14345 Bagley Street (at US 31), West Olive, MI 49460<br />

616-399-2119 - www.harborhumane.org<br />

Humane Society of West Michigan<br />

3077 Wilson Drive NW, Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids, MI 49534<br />

616-453-8900 - www.hswestmi.org<br />

Ionia County Animal Shelter<br />

3853 Sparrow Drive, Ionia, MI 48846<br />

616-527-9040 - www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI342.html<br />

Kent County Animal Shelter<br />

740 Fuller Ave. NE, Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids, MI 49503<br />

616-632-7300 - www.accesskent.com/kcas<br />

Pound Buddies Animal Shelter & Adoption Center<br />

1300 East Keating Ave., Muskegon, MI<br />

231-724-6500 - www.poundbuddies.org<br />

Grooming<br />

Doggie Paws<br />

Brenda Christensen<br />

410 E Division St, Sparta, MI 49345<br />

616-887-7060 – brendasilverleaf@yahoo.com<br />

www.doggie-paws.com<br />

Pet Boarding/Sitters<br />

Canine Country Club<br />

In-home pet sitting <strong>and</strong> dog walking<br />

231-755-3230<br />

<strong>Dogs</strong> Bay Inc<br />

Boarding, daycare, grooming, CBD products<br />

3675 64th St., Holl<strong>and</strong> 49423 or 3225 132nd Ave., Holl<strong>and</strong>, 49424<br />

616-218-4493 – dogsbayinc@gmail.com – www.dogsbay.net<br />

Pet Villa – Lodging, Daycare, Grooming<br />

3934 3 Mile Road NW, Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids, MI 49534<br />

616-735-3191 – pvpetvilla@gmail.com<br />

www.thepetvilla.com<br />

The Cat’s Meow<br />

Loving Home Care For Your Cat<br />

Jeanine Buckner, veterinary assistant - 616-481-6878<br />

Pet In-Home Hospice<br />

Heaven at Home Pet Hospice<br />

In-home pet hospice, palliative pet care <strong>and</strong> euthanasia for<br />

companion animals<br />

616-498-1316 – doc@pethospicevet.com<br />

www.pethospicevet.com<br />

Pet Services<br />

Pleasant Hearts Pet Food Pantry<br />

Helping keep pets <strong>and</strong> families together since 2016<br />

info@pleasantheartspetfoodpantry.org<br />

www.pleasantheartspetfoodpantry.org<br />

1539 Taylor Ave. NE, Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids, MI 49505<br />

Pet Training<br />

Paradigm Dog School<br />

Professional dog training<br />

616-886-4214 – paradigmds@gmail.com<br />

www.paradigmdogschool.com<br />

Wolf Song Enterprises, LLC<br />

Animal behavior consulting, Animal training, Animal talent<br />

Wolfsongenterprises@gmail.com – 231-744-7141<br />

Rescue Groups<br />

BestPals Animal Rescue Center<br />

13888 Blair St., Holl<strong>and</strong>, MI 49424<br />

Call for appointment, 616-212-3368<br />

www.bestpalsarc.wix.com – bestpalsarc@gmail.com<br />

Cannonsville Critters<br />

Helping cats in Montcalm County<br />

Michelle Hocking, 989-287-2553<br />

Carol’s Ferals<br />

Trap-Neuter-Return <strong>and</strong> Adoption<br />

616-560-0555 – www.carolsferals.org<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 28 www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com • <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong>


Community Resource Guide<br />

Crash’s L<strong>and</strong>ing<br />

Cat Rescue & Placement Center<br />

No-kill, Non-profit 501(c) organization<br />

616-821-6065 - www.crashsl<strong>and</strong>ing.org<br />

Vicky’s Pet Connection<br />

www.vickyspetconnection.com<br />

Muskegon Humane Society - a no kill, non-profit shelter<br />

2640 Marquette Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442<br />

231-773-8689 - www.muskegonhumanesociety.org<br />

Noah Project<br />

A no-kill, non-profit animal shelter<br />

5205 Airline Road, Muskegon, MI 49444<br />

www.noahproject.petfinder.com - 231-865-1264<br />

Pet Tales Rescue<br />

A non-profit, volunteer, foster-based, all-breed dog/cat rescue.<br />

Kathy Brown, P.O. Box 88084, Kentwood, MI 49518<br />

616-446-1591 – pettalesrescueboard@gmail.com<br />

www.pettalesrescue.com – www.facebook.com/pettalesrescue<br />

Reuben’s Room Cat Rescue<br />

Jeanine Buckner<br />

A no-kill, non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization<br />

616-481-6878 - www.reubensroom.petfinder.com<br />

Safe Haven Humane Society<br />

P.O. Box 55, Ionia, MI 48846<br />

Fax: 517-579-5948<br />

616-522-1611 – shhspets@hotmail.com – www.shhspets.com<br />

West Michigan Ferret Connection<br />

Education - Boarding - Adoptions - Rescue<br />

Dee Gage, 616-447-2978 - wmfc2001@sbcglobal.net<br />

Westie Rescue Michigan Inc<br />

A nonprofit volunteer organization providing assistance <strong>and</strong> foster<br />

care for homeless West Highl<strong>and</strong> White Terriers.<br />

Jackie Curtis – 810-632-5477<br />

westierescuemi2@yahoo.com – www.westierescue-mi.com<br />

Wishbone Pet Rescue Alliance<br />

Managing the Allegan County Animal Shelter<br />

P.O. Box 124, Douglas, MI 49406<br />

(800) 475-0776 - www.wishbonepetrescue.org<br />

Spay/Neuter<br />

C-SNIP<br />

<strong>Dogs</strong>. <strong>Cats</strong>. Spay. Neuter.<br />

1675 Viewpond Dr. SE, Kentwood, MI 49508<br />

616-455-8220 – info@csnip.org<br />

www.csnip.org<br />

West Michigan Spay <strong>and</strong> Neuter Clinic<br />

6130 Airline Road, Fruitport, MI 49415<br />

www.wmspay<strong>and</strong>neuter.org – 231-366-7067<br />

Specialty Businesses<br />

Critter Cottage<br />

Adoption/outreach for Vicky’s Pet Connection<br />

7205 Thornapple River Drive SE, Ada, MI<br />

616-682-4855 - www.vickyspetconnection.com<br />

Happy Cat Cafe<br />

Cat Lounge & Adoption Center<br />

447 S Division, Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids, MI 49503<br />

616-202-4750 – happycatgr@gmail.com<br />

www.happycatgr.com.<br />

Kristina VanOss Studio<br />

Pet portraits made personal<br />

616-566-2113 – inastateofre@gmail.com<br />

Wishbone House<br />

Thrift shop <strong>and</strong> Pet Adoptions<br />

165 Blue Star Highway, Douglas, MI<br />

269-455-5247 – www.wishbonepetrescue.org<br />

Veterinarians<br />

Family Friends Veterinary Hospital<br />

6555 28th St. SE, Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids, MI 49546<br />

616-575-6520 – chelsey.rosemeck@familyfriendsvet.com<br />

www.familyfriendsvet.com<br />

Laketown Cat Hospital<br />

3604 64th Street, Saugatuck, MI 49453<br />

(269)455-5056 mail@laketowncathospital.com<br />

www.laketowncathospital.com<br />

Quick Fix Veterinary Clinic<br />

Offering affordable routine wellness care <strong>and</strong> spay/neuter services<br />

south of Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids.<br />

www.quickfixvet.com<br />

Wildlife<br />

Lowell Farm <strong>and</strong> Wildlife Center<br />

12494 Vergennes St., Lowell, MI<br />

616-885-4223 – www.farmwildlife.org<br />

Wildlife Rehab Center<br />

1504 Union Ave. NE, Gr<strong>and</strong> Rapids<br />

616-361-6109 – www.wildlife-rehab-center.org<br />

<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 29


In Dog 281, you meet Alison Cavera, a city girl who<br />

moves to northern Michigan to live with her gr<strong>and</strong>mother.<br />

When Alison’s dogs are stolen, she turns detective<br />

<strong>and</strong> finds herself in the unscrupulous world of dog theft<br />

<strong>and</strong> animal dealers. Alison’s search for Cody <strong>and</strong> Blue<br />

takes surprising turns providing edge-of-your-seat moments<br />

that keep the pages turning.<br />

While a work of fiction, this powerful narrative tells<br />

the all-to-real practice of USDA Class B animal dealers<br />

selling animals to laboratories <strong>and</strong> universities for<br />

research.<br />

Dog 281 is the first book in the Save Five Series,<br />

which features Alison Cavera as she is introduced to a<br />

way of life that respects all animals. In the second book,<br />

More Than a Number, Alison is hired at the county<br />

animal shelter. Her stubbornness <strong>and</strong> courage take her<br />

to cold-blooded dog fights, a farm sanctuary <strong>and</strong> a cat<br />

hoarding situation where she is adopted by a black cat.<br />

More Than a Number – In the second book of<br />

the Save Five Series, Alison is hired at the county animal<br />

shelter. She loved dogs <strong>and</strong> cats so the chance to help<br />

homeless pets sounded perfect, but the work wasn’t<br />

what she expected. She never anticipated spending time<br />

chasing a wayward dairy cow or finding dozens of cats<br />

in a hoarder’s home. She didn’t expect the work to take<br />

her to the isolated backwoods of the Manistee National<br />

Forest where secrets were buried among the majestic<br />

maples, oaks <strong>and</strong> pines.<br />

When the county sheriff refused to investigate Alison’s<br />

suspicion of a dog-fighting ring operating locally,<br />

Alison doesn’t hesitate to follow the clues herself. Her<br />

independence, stubbornness <strong>and</strong> courage lead her into<br />

the cold-blooded world of the illegal entertainment.<br />

Dog 281<br />

More Than a Number<br />

You Might be a Crazy Cat Lady if ...<br />

You Might be a Crazy Cat<br />

Lady if ... – Everybody knows<br />

one––a woman who has an affinity<br />

for cats. She feeds the local<br />

ferals, takes in the friendly strays<br />

<strong>and</strong> is the go-to person when you<br />

have a cat question. She could be<br />

your neighbor, your sister, your<br />

aunt, your mother, your daughter<br />

or you. Does the phase “Crazy<br />

Cat Lady” come to mind when<br />

you think of this person? If so,<br />

you’ll enjoy reading this book.<br />

With this humorous memoir,<br />

Janet Vormittag comes out of<br />

the closet as a crazy cat lady. She<br />

gives readers an intimate peek<br />

into the mindset of a woman who has too many furry fourlegged<br />

friends.<br />

Are available on Amazon.com<br />

They can also be purchased by sending a check<br />

(made payable to Janet Vormittag) for $13.95<br />

plus tax (total $14.79) per book to:<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> magazine<br />

PO Box 996<br />

Jenison, MI 49429- 0996<br />

Shipping is free!<br />

Janet Vormittag is the author of two novels,<br />

Dog 281 <strong>and</strong> More Than a Number. Her<br />

latest book, You Might be a Crazy Cat Lady<br />

if ... is a collection of short stories that is a<br />

humorous memoir about living with cats.<br />

Janet is also the publisher of <strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />

<strong>Dogs</strong>, a <strong>Magazine</strong> Devoted to Companion<br />

Animals.<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> - 30 www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com • <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong>


Koby’s Promise<br />

helping senior dogs<br />

By Janet Vormittag<br />

When Karin Buffum decided to start a rescue that<br />

focused on senior <strong>and</strong> special-needs dogs, she named it<br />

after one of her memorable foster dogs. Koby was 9 years<br />

old, overweight <strong>and</strong> arthritic when he was dumped at a<br />

shelter.<br />

Forever Fosters, a rescue in Niles, pulled Koby from<br />

the shelter <strong>and</strong> asked Karin to foster him. The placement<br />

would be permanent since Koby was considered<br />

unadoptedable.<br />

Ironically, both Karin <strong>and</strong> Koby were diagnosed<br />

with cancer. Karin survived. Koby didn’t. He passed in<br />

November 2016.<br />

“He helped me get through my cancer,” she said. “I<br />

promised him I would keep looking after older dogs <strong>and</strong><br />

help as many as I could get out of shelters.”<br />

Karin <strong>and</strong> her friend Marc Br<strong>and</strong>on, who also<br />

volunteered for Forever Fosters, founded Koby’s Promise<br />

in 2017.<br />

Marc, a fulltime firefighter, lives in Niles. Karin,<br />

a biotech <strong>and</strong> pharmaceutical consultant, lives in<br />

Saugatuck.<br />

In 2017, they found homes for 54 dogs <strong>and</strong> cats.<br />

In 2018, that number was more than doubled.<br />

Koby’s Promise has eight foster homes, including<br />

Karin’s. “We need more. The more we have, the more we<br />

can pull,” she said. They have close to 30 dogs in their<br />

care, but turn away about a half-dozen dogs <strong>and</strong> cats<br />

every day.<br />

“It’s hard. You want to save them all, but you have to<br />

say no sometimes,” Marc said.<br />

Marc said he can’t foster. “I adopt everything. I don’t<br />

know if I’m soft in the heart or soft in the head,” he joked.<br />

He currently has his quota of dogs <strong>and</strong> cats. “I have a<br />

couch that nobody sits on—just the animals.”<br />

Karin, who has three cats <strong>and</strong> one dog, laughed <strong>and</strong><br />

said her two couches have been taken over by foster dogs.<br />

Karin said their primary need is for volunteers.<br />

Besides foster homes, they need people to help with<br />

fundraising <strong>and</strong> to write grants. Veterinarian care is their<br />

biggest expense.<br />

To help find homes for senior dogs <strong>and</strong> cats, Koby’s<br />

Promise has a Companion Program. They partner with<br />

Meals on Wheels to help identify people who would<br />

benefit from having a pet.<br />

The program places senior pets with people who<br />

may not have the means to adopt. Participants can either<br />

adopt or provide long-term foster care. To qualify for the<br />

Companion Program, people must be 60 years or older,<br />

have a disability or be a veteran.<br />

Adopters have adoption fees reduced or waived.<br />

<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • www.cats<strong>and</strong>dogsmagazine.com<br />

Above: Karin Buffum <strong>and</strong><br />

Marc Br<strong>and</strong>on, founders<br />

of Koby’ Promise, a<br />

rescue that specializes in<br />

helping older dogs.<br />

Left: Koby, the foster dog<br />

who inspired Karin <strong>and</strong><br />

Marc to start a rescue.<br />

For long-term fosters, the animal remains the property<br />

of Koby’s Promise. They help with supplies, do welfare<br />

checks <strong>and</strong> provide transport for veterinarian care. If the<br />

person is hospitalized, they provide care for the animal.<br />

So far they’ve placed close to a dozen animals under<br />

the Companion Program.<br />

“The seniors are so thankful,” Karin said, adding<br />

one widower was depressed <strong>and</strong> said having a cat made<br />

his life worth living again. “When I see it work out, it’s<br />

awesome.”<br />

Karin recently took in two older Jack Russell terriers<br />

<strong>and</strong> two 14-year-old min-pins from Harbor Humane<br />

Society. All four had been at the shelter more than two<br />

months <strong>and</strong> had been overlooked by adopters.<br />

“The worse place for a senior is a shelter,” she said.<br />

It breaks her heart to know an older dog is alone in a<br />

shelter.<br />

Karin sometimes accepts hospice dogs into Koby’s<br />

Promise <strong>and</strong> keeps them at her home. A year ago staff at<br />

Harbor Humane asked if she could take a terminally ill<br />

senior bulldog who they didn’t want to die in the shelter.<br />

Of course, she said yes. The bulldog lived two weeks<br />

<strong>and</strong> passed in his sleep.<br />

“It’s hard. You just love them as much as you can,”<br />

Karin said.<br />

For more information visit www.kobyspromise.org,<br />

email admin@kobyspromise.org or call 616-844-8347.<br />

<strong>Cats</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Dogs</strong> -31

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!